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Love in Harmony Valley #7
A Man of Influence
She isn't giving up—on her town or herself
An accident cost Tracy Jackson not only her high-profile job but also her ability to easily communicate. Back in her California hometown, she's working at the bakery and painstakingly relearning how to speak. Now she has a new mission: to protect her community from Chad Healy.
The travel writer is in Harmony Valley to cover the Harvest Festival. And—big surprise—he's helping Tracy make her dreams happen. But his lampooning style could hurt her town's longtime traditions. Filled with conflicting emotions, can Tracy find the words to let Chad know how she feels before he's gone for good?
An accident cost Tracy Jackson not only her high-profile job but also her ability to easily communicate. Back in her California hometown, she's working at the bakery and painstakingly relearning how to speak. Now she has a new mission: to protect her community from Chad Healy.
The travel writer is in Harmony Valley to cover the Harvest Festival. And—big surprise—he's helping Tracy make her dreams happen. But his lampooning style could hurt her town's longtime traditions. Filled with conflicting emotions, can Tracy find the words to let Chad know how she feels before he's gone for good?
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 19, 2016
26 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Curtis
261 books1,295 followersPrior to writing romance, award-winning, USA Today Bestseller Melinda Curtis was a junior manager for a Fortune 500 company, which meant when she flew on the private jet she was relegated to the jump seat—otherwise known as the potty. After grabbing her pen (and a parachute) she made the jump to full-time writer. Between writing sweet romance and sweet romantic comedy, Melinda finds time to bond with her husband over home remodeling projects. She recently came to grips with the fact that she’s an empty nester and a grandma, concepts easier to grasp than jet-setting on a potty.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 6, 2023
This is an enemies to lovers book set in the small, quaint town of Harmony Valley. Tracy Jackson, the female protagonist, suffered a TBI during a car accident and has returned to Harmony Valley to recover and figure out what she will do in the future. Enter the handsome, suave and manipulative travel writer, Chad Healy Bostwick, and the fireworks begin. Chad is planning on writing a satirical article about Harmony Valley, skewering their traditions and residents in order to sell ad space and keep his reputation as a writer with wit. Unfortunately for him, Tracy checks up on him and knows that he can’t be trusted, even though she is attracted to him and her aphasia improves when he is around. Just a hug from Chad helps Tracy speak more fluently, but his hugs aren’t worth it if it means he will hurt the feelings of all of her friends in Harmony Valley. Parts of the book were laugh out loud funny and other parts were a little bittersweet and sad. I especially enjoyed Chad’s foray into being a handyman and all of the injuries he got each time. The interaction between the characters was realistic and the quirky characters were relatable even though they had some weird habits. The plot flowed smoothly and just at the right pace to keep me engaged. All in all, I enjoyed getting to know Tracy and Chad and look forward to more books set in the little town of Harmony Valley.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Prolific. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Prolific. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
March 24, 2016
Note: I was given a complimentary copy for an honest review.
This book continues the story of Harmony Valley and its residents, this time the focus is on Tracy Jackson with a substory on Mildred.
Tracy is still recovering from a car wreck 2 years ago that almost killed her. In the aftermath, she now has the speech condition called aphasia. Consequently, she feels frustrated when she needs to communicate.
Chad Healy Bostwick has just been released from his high profile job at his father's magazine company. In an effort to try to prove them wrong in their decision, he heads to Harmony Valley to come up with material for a new online blog he intends to create.
When he arrives in town, Tracy is the only one to look him up and realize that his articles are more centered on ridicule than praise. However, her warnings to the town are ignored and they encourage her to be his tour guide.
As the story unfolds, you'll find yourself laughing - a lot. But, there's a serious side too as the author explores deeper issues such as aphasia, older parents, senior citizens with health concerns, civic pride and respect, and concern and love for your neighbor. It also encourages you to be true to yourself. To not try to do something to please others when it goes against your own personality and nature.
There's really nothing I can think of to criticize. The character development is good. The plot is balanced between the humor and the serious, and I found myself regretting that it was over.
Romance - PG - some kisses
Language - clean
My rating - 5 stars
This book continues the story of Harmony Valley and its residents, this time the focus is on Tracy Jackson with a substory on Mildred.
Tracy is still recovering from a car wreck 2 years ago that almost killed her. In the aftermath, she now has the speech condition called aphasia. Consequently, she feels frustrated when she needs to communicate.
Chad Healy Bostwick has just been released from his high profile job at his father's magazine company. In an effort to try to prove them wrong in their decision, he heads to Harmony Valley to come up with material for a new online blog he intends to create.
When he arrives in town, Tracy is the only one to look him up and realize that his articles are more centered on ridicule than praise. However, her warnings to the town are ignored and they encourage her to be his tour guide.
As the story unfolds, you'll find yourself laughing - a lot. But, there's a serious side too as the author explores deeper issues such as aphasia, older parents, senior citizens with health concerns, civic pride and respect, and concern and love for your neighbor. It also encourages you to be true to yourself. To not try to do something to please others when it goes against your own personality and nature.
There's really nothing I can think of to criticize. The character development is good. The plot is balanced between the humor and the serious, and I found myself regretting that it was over.
Romance - PG - some kisses
Language - clean
My rating - 5 stars
June 8, 2023
Growing up with elderly parents can affect your outlook on life. The main character in the story, Chad, has dealt with this, and as you would expect since his parents are older than the norm when he was born, they also died when he was a younger age than most people would be for that sad event.
I actually can identify with him on several levels, one of which being that my parents were older when they had me also. I am very fortunate that I did not have the main issue that he does, which is the fear of them dying. I did experience everyone I met when I was young thinking my parents were my grandparents, and it took me until I was in well into my 20s before that actually didn't bother me anymore.
The main female character, Tracy, was introduced in the first book in the series Dandelion Wishes. She was one of my favorite characters and I was hoping she would show up again in a book further along in the series. I was so happy to find out that she is the main character in this book. She was in a severe car accident which left her with multiple body injuries, which have healed, but she still has Aphasia, years after the accident. I also can relate to her dealing with this issue.
I was deeply evolved in this story since my heart went out to both the main characters so much. Their personalities are developed so well that they soon were real people to me and not characters in a book. After reading all the previous books in this series, the characters are so familiar to me, and I have to add that I like them so much especially the really quirky older people that make the town so special. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
After I finish every book in this series, I say to myself this is my favorite! I must state that I said that again after this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the complimentary copy.
I actually can identify with him on several levels, one of which being that my parents were older when they had me also. I am very fortunate that I did not have the main issue that he does, which is the fear of them dying. I did experience everyone I met when I was young thinking my parents were my grandparents, and it took me until I was in well into my 20s before that actually didn't bother me anymore.
The main female character, Tracy, was introduced in the first book in the series Dandelion Wishes. She was one of my favorite characters and I was hoping she would show up again in a book further along in the series. I was so happy to find out that she is the main character in this book. She was in a severe car accident which left her with multiple body injuries, which have healed, but she still has Aphasia, years after the accident. I also can relate to her dealing with this issue.
I was deeply evolved in this story since my heart went out to both the main characters so much. Their personalities are developed so well that they soon were real people to me and not characters in a book. After reading all the previous books in this series, the characters are so familiar to me, and I have to add that I like them so much especially the really quirky older people that make the town so special. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
After I finish every book in this series, I say to myself this is my favorite! I must state that I said that again after this book!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the complimentary copy.
June 8, 2023
A Small Town Romance is the seventh in the Love in Harmony Valley series but can be read as a stand alone story however I suggest reading the previous novels for entertainment and a little background into some of the secondary characters. This is Tracy's story of overcoming and rebuilding after a devastating car accident has left her with speech difficulties. She has moved back home to work on overcoming her aphasia while trying to find a job in advertising. She is currently working in the bakery that just opened. Chad Healy Bostwick has worked for the Bostwick Lampoon as The Happy Bachelor who travels to different locations writing snarky editorials about the places and people. After taking care of his father in his final months, Chad learns one week after his father died that he was fired from his job as per his father's wishes. Now he is trying to start his own on-line magazine to prove he doesn't need his old job but when Tracy realizes who he is, she works to stop him from insulting her town and people. There is an instant spark of attraction between Chad and Tracy but both are fighting their growing feelings for fear it will derail their plans. The story that follows is filled with laughs, a few tears, a blooming love and cast of secondary characters that add to the enjoyment of the town.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
April 1, 2016
Whenever I receive an offer to read an advanced copy of Melanie's Harmony Valley series, I don't hesitate a moment and anticipate a fun and heartwarming story. I was not disappointed. This California town that is made up of mostly elderly men and women has what it takes to charm new visitors simply by being who they are. Their goal is to get new younger residents to start businesses and help revitalize the town. Chad arrives in Harmony Valley for the town's upcoming Harvest Festival to start a new column named "Happy Bachelor Takes a Different Path" after being released from his former position of working for his dad. His intention is to beat the Bostwick Lampoon magazine from writing an article first. Planning on staying for approximately 10 days, he has the determination of a bulldozer to prove the magazine wrong in letting him go. Tracy has returned home, temporarily working at Martin's Bakery, to try and get back to a previously held career that was put on hold after an accident left her pretty much speechless. After researching Chad's previous articles, she fears that he will smear and poke fun of this town and the people in it. I was charmed and honored to revisit Harmony Valley. It is a lot of fun! This book can be read as a standalone. [I received an early copy from the author for an honest review.]
October 18, 2019
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the full length novel Harlequin Heartwarming: A Harmony Valley Novel book 7: A Man of Influence by Melinda Curtis and this review was given freely.
Humor, love, and controversy are combined in this romance that features two professionals struggling to re- enter their chosen field. Accident prone Chad Bostwick thought he lost everything when his father's will results in him losing his job until a story leads him to Harmony Valley and former advertising executive now recovering accident victim and newest Martin's Bakery employee Tracy Jackson.
I purchased a copy of the full length novel Harlequin Heartwarming: A Harmony Valley Novel book 7: A Man of Influence by Melinda Curtis and this review was given freely.
Humor, love, and controversy are combined in this romance that features two professionals struggling to re- enter their chosen field. Accident prone Chad Bostwick thought he lost everything when his father's will results in him losing his job until a story leads him to Harmony Valley and former advertising executive now recovering accident victim and newest Martin's Bakery employee Tracy Jackson.
April 17, 2021
3.5 stars
Different story as H and h are very much seeking to find their life work/place.
Story stalled in middle for me.
Surprise ending.
Chad & Tracy. Very light on romance.
Keeper .. as i want to read all of this Harmony Valley series.
“B&B” owner, Leona, definitely featured here.
Different story as H and h are very much seeking to find their life work/place.
Story stalled in middle for me.
Surprise ending.
Chad & Tracy. Very light on romance.
Keeper .. as i want to read all of this Harmony Valley series.
“B&B” owner, Leona, definitely featured here.
February 17, 2024
Wow your a big city girl, fighting for everything that you want and earn everything you have and then boom, everything is taken away in a car accident. What are you to do? You can't work, you can't afford the things you need to and your kinda stuck.
Solution move back to the small town you know and begin your life again. It may be tough, but so are you and you can do this. The added benefit is that there are people to help and there may even finally be a love interest in your life.
The is really something to be said for small town living and Melinda Curtis makes us dream and yearn for maybe someday being in the same small town or another one where everybody looks out for each other.
Love her whole series! This is definitely a must read series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Solution move back to the small town you know and begin your life again. It may be tough, but so are you and you can do this. The added benefit is that there are people to help and there may even finally be a love interest in your life.
The is really something to be said for small town living and Melinda Curtis makes us dream and yearn for maybe someday being in the same small town or another one where everybody looks out for each other.
Love her whole series! This is definitely a must read series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2017
Meh. Kind of all over the place. Really didn't like the ending.
November 2, 2023
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
While I have several “favorite” stories within the Love in Harmony Valley series, I have to admit that A Small Town Romance is among my top three of those favorite encounters with the quirky residents of this small town and the current love interests.
We first met Tracy in Dandelion Wishes; she’s the sister of one of the dot com millionaires who first came to Harmony Valley. She’s had an accident that has caused speech difficulties for her, and her aphasia is affecting every aspect of her life. She’s been let go from her advertising position and returned home, where she releases her frustrations through other artistic abilities as a coping mechanism. Life moves along at a boring, frustrating pace until The Happy Bachelor, Chad, arrives in her hometown to kickstart his own career (and self-worth) through the lampooning and snarky, mean-spirited travel reports he’s infamous for writing. His focus is those quirky, elderly residents of the town — and while he’s trying to come off as someone who has an interest (in a good way) in their festival, he’s really here to make fun of it and them in the most unkind way possible.
It is difficult to find any redeeming qualities about Chad when we first meet him. He is a scumbag of the first order. But. We will discover that Chad also has a lot going on right now, including having his position at a national magazine taken away from him, issues about the elderly, and other things that you should discover on your own. There is a slight hope of redemption at the beginning and over time that will grow, and we will see Chad change for himself and for Tracy, as well as those residents he’s coming to know for other reasons far beyond what brought him here in the first place. Chad is a work in progress, and it shows. But by the story’s ending, I found empathy for this man and hoped for his happy ending as well.
Tracy and Chad are such amazing characters, opposites in many ways, yet they each have issues that the other helps them overcome. Hate and mistrust turn to hope and so many conflicting emotions for this couple and for the reader as well. I loved everything about A Small Town Romance and would easily and happily recommend this story to any reader who loves a sweet, small-town romance with characters who leap off of the page as they learn to accept themselves and others through a lot of personal pain. A well-written, emotionally engaging romance with some quirky elder residents… what’s not to love about that?
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
While I have several “favorite” stories within the Love in Harmony Valley series, I have to admit that A Small Town Romance is among my top three of those favorite encounters with the quirky residents of this small town and the current love interests.
We first met Tracy in Dandelion Wishes; she’s the sister of one of the dot com millionaires who first came to Harmony Valley. She’s had an accident that has caused speech difficulties for her, and her aphasia is affecting every aspect of her life. She’s been let go from her advertising position and returned home, where she releases her frustrations through other artistic abilities as a coping mechanism. Life moves along at a boring, frustrating pace until The Happy Bachelor, Chad, arrives in her hometown to kickstart his own career (and self-worth) through the lampooning and snarky, mean-spirited travel reports he’s infamous for writing. His focus is those quirky, elderly residents of the town — and while he’s trying to come off as someone who has an interest (in a good way) in their festival, he’s really here to make fun of it and them in the most unkind way possible.
It is difficult to find any redeeming qualities about Chad when we first meet him. He is a scumbag of the first order. But. We will discover that Chad also has a lot going on right now, including having his position at a national magazine taken away from him, issues about the elderly, and other things that you should discover on your own. There is a slight hope of redemption at the beginning and over time that will grow, and we will see Chad change for himself and for Tracy, as well as those residents he’s coming to know for other reasons far beyond what brought him here in the first place. Chad is a work in progress, and it shows. But by the story’s ending, I found empathy for this man and hoped for his happy ending as well.
Tracy and Chad are such amazing characters, opposites in many ways, yet they each have issues that the other helps them overcome. Hate and mistrust turn to hope and so many conflicting emotions for this couple and for the reader as well. I loved everything about A Small Town Romance and would easily and happily recommend this story to any reader who loves a sweet, small-town romance with characters who leap off of the page as they learn to accept themselves and others through a lot of personal pain. A well-written, emotionally engaging romance with some quirky elder residents… what’s not to love about that?
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
July 5, 2023
Tracy Jackson had gotten into a horrible accident with her best friend and Tracy is still trying to recuperate from it. She lost her high-profile advertising job because of Aphasia, a speech problem. Now she’s back in Harmony Valley working in Martin’s Bakery. She loves it because she doesn’t have to do a lot of talking. She needs to decide what she wants to do with the rest of her life. Will she go back to advertising? Harmony Valley was a dying town until her brother and his two best friends decided to open a winery. They’re willing to put money back into their hometown, that will help to bring jobs in and young families back. The older people are hoping their families will move back with the winery.
Chad Healy Bostwick , a handsome young man, took care of his sick father in the last few months of his life. After his father‘s passing, the board decided to let go from Bostwick Lampoon per his father’s final wishes. Why? He’s devastated. He’ll show them. He’ll start his own on-line magazine. Chad wrote as The Happy Bachelor, where he travels to different areas and would write snarky editorials about the town and the people.
Once he meets Tracy he thinks she beautiful. Since Chad is a stranger, Tracy checks his on-line magazine and finds out he’s not nice. Will she set him straight about writing bad things about her town and townspeople? The town takes Chad under their wing and shows him around thinking he’ll put Harmony Valley on the map with his article. They get him involved in their everyday lives. The more time he spends there the more he is confused. Should he stay or should he go after the festival? Will his feelings for Tracy make him stay? Will he leave because he needs to keep his magazine going? After all that’s what he does. Will he write a bad article? Would they forgive him? Will Tracy land her a new advertising job? Will she stay in Harmony Valley. The characters are amazing. They both need to figure out what their next careers are. Both are unsure of themselves. Melinda Curtis always brings you into the story. Worth the read. I received this book for my honest review. I gave it voluntarily
Chad Healy Bostwick , a handsome young man, took care of his sick father in the last few months of his life. After his father‘s passing, the board decided to let go from Bostwick Lampoon per his father’s final wishes. Why? He’s devastated. He’ll show them. He’ll start his own on-line magazine. Chad wrote as The Happy Bachelor, where he travels to different areas and would write snarky editorials about the town and the people.
Once he meets Tracy he thinks she beautiful. Since Chad is a stranger, Tracy checks his on-line magazine and finds out he’s not nice. Will she set him straight about writing bad things about her town and townspeople? The town takes Chad under their wing and shows him around thinking he’ll put Harmony Valley on the map with his article. They get him involved in their everyday lives. The more time he spends there the more he is confused. Should he stay or should he go after the festival? Will his feelings for Tracy make him stay? Will he leave because he needs to keep his magazine going? After all that’s what he does. Will he write a bad article? Would they forgive him? Will Tracy land her a new advertising job? Will she stay in Harmony Valley. The characters are amazing. They both need to figure out what their next careers are. Both are unsure of themselves. Melinda Curtis always brings you into the story. Worth the read. I received this book for my honest review. I gave it voluntarily
July 20, 2023
I am thrilled that Tracy’s book is here. I’ve been wondering about her story and what’s been going on with her. I’m glad she has found something that she likes doing but she has an underlying frustration with wanting to do more and being frustrated with her condition and her speech. It was definitely interesting reading about both Tracy and Chad and how they had more similarities that I thought they might and I also loved that Tracy googled him and knew his story and how he could hurt the town and I was also frustrated that she was trying to warn people but all they saw was a writer than had been in the NY times and didn’t want to listen to her and her concerns and warnings. Of course, in Harmony Valley and Tracy being single, they immediately started match making them but when she put him on warning that she knew about him and his articles, that seemed to cool things a tad. However, when they started hanging out more since they were pushed together, they developed a friendship and shared a lot about their pasts and a sort of romance developed. As Chad’s days in town were dwindling and Tracy decided to pass on a professional opportunity things were a tad off with them and when she read his article for his blog about the town, the gloves came off. At the fall festival she decided to share his article with the town and as you can imagine it didn’t go off well. However, I was more than impressed with Chad with the way he regrouped and came back with a plan to not only win Tracy back but the town as well. Loved Tracy getting her confidence back and seeing so many people in town helping and I also loved how Rutgar came into town and is becoming more social. The ending with everyone and the surprise for Tracy, everything she deserves and then some. Wonderful story!!!
August 21, 2023
As the Love in Harmony Valley series continues, I have been looking forward to hearing more of Tracy’s story. We met her in the first book of the series, Dandelion Wishes. She had been Emma’s best friend and is Will’s sister. She has expressive (speech) aphasia as the result of an accident where Emma was driving. Her speech difficulty is hard enough in daily life, but imagine what it does to a marketing executive. She is currently working as a barista in the local coffee shop.
When Chad is fired from his position as a travel writer and head of company at the Bostwick Lampoon, he heads out to write his own caustic satire on the web starting with little Harmony Valley. The elderly residents are delighted that he is going to draw attention to their town bringing in tourists and new residents but are unaware of his satirical motives.
Tracy is attracted to the real Chad hidden inside the charming but deceptive exterior. He does have a kind heart and helps her with her speech. Unfortunately for their relationship, Tracy has done her research and is aware of the devastation he can bring to the little town and the people she loves in Harmony Valley.
A Small Town Romance provides a great look at these two characters. It shows the importance of self-confidence and helping others, putting their needs above your own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
When Chad is fired from his position as a travel writer and head of company at the Bostwick Lampoon, he heads out to write his own caustic satire on the web starting with little Harmony Valley. The elderly residents are delighted that he is going to draw attention to their town bringing in tourists and new residents but are unaware of his satirical motives.
Tracy is attracted to the real Chad hidden inside the charming but deceptive exterior. He does have a kind heart and helps her with her speech. Unfortunately for their relationship, Tracy has done her research and is aware of the devastation he can bring to the little town and the people she loves in Harmony Valley.
A Small Town Romance provides a great look at these two characters. It shows the importance of self-confidence and helping others, putting their needs above your own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 3, 2023
This is another sweet story in this series. It’s a nice read. I enjoyed it. Tracy, struggling with speaking smoothly due to the expressive aphasia resulting from a car accident, got tasked with guiding travel writer, Chad, around town. The rest of the town hoped he could draw people to Harmony Valley, but Tracy quickly realized that he was as likely to write an article ridiculing the town as promoting it. “He hadn’t come to rescue them. He could incinerate the town’s revitalization efforts with a few strokes on his keyboard.” Chad ad some baggage from his parents and his experiences, and Tracy dealt with a lot of insecurities from her challenges. “He’d never run into anyone who was so set on defeating herself before the game ever started as Tracy was.” I liked both main characters. As usual with this series, there is also a secondary focus on the elderly members of the community. In this case, Mildred and her desire to find a romantic relationship takes the stage. There were some humorous moments, particularly with Chad’s accident prone tendencies. While this book is part of a series and there is a lot of carryover, it reads fine as a standalone. This is a sweet and clean story with no harsh language.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2016
A Man of Influence is part of the Harmony Valley series, yet can easily be read as a stand alone novel. I have read other books in the series and always love returning to the quirky and lovable elderly characters that make this town so unique! This story just has so much wonderful humor, wrapped up with poignant moments, as well.
One of the things I really liked about this book was that the main character, Tracy, was working on overcoming a speech difficulty following an accident. I really liked Tracy’s character. She was strong, yet insecure. She was able to look at Chad and his writing and see the underlying pain that directed his decisions, however, she struggled to figure out what she wanted for her life. Chad and Tracy both grew so much in this story. This was another fun addition to the Harmony Valley series.
The Harmony Valley series is part of the Harlequin Heartwarming line of books, which feature contemporary stories and are rated as clean romances.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
One of the things I really liked about this book was that the main character, Tracy, was working on overcoming a speech difficulty following an accident. I really liked Tracy’s character. She was strong, yet insecure. She was able to look at Chad and his writing and see the underlying pain that directed his decisions, however, she struggled to figure out what she wanted for her life. Chad and Tracy both grew so much in this story. This was another fun addition to the Harmony Valley series.
The Harmony Valley series is part of the Harlequin Heartwarming line of books, which feature contemporary stories and are rated as clean romances.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
March 30, 2016
Chad Healy Bostwick is at a low point in his life. He cared for his father until his death. Now as he tries to put his life back together, he's let go from his job as editor-in-chief of a national magazine. The final blow is that in his will his father requested that he be removed. This is unbelievable. He'll show them. He comes to Harmony Valley for a story, but stays for the romance. Tracy Jackson had a full life until a car accident left her with expressive aphasia. She came home to recover. I admired her courage and determination. She's an inspiration. Chad is attracted to her at first sight, but she's wary of this man. She won't let him hurt Harmony Valley. Chad has become bitter and angry. . He no longer enjoys life. He likes this town and the people who live there. They welcome him with open arms, but he doesn't want to commit. This story has it all. There is love, forgiveness and healing. Harmony Valley is such a special place. It's where people care for each other. I'm sure Chad has mixed feelings since he is continually getting hurt. I love this series. It has heart. Melinda Curtis always deliveres.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.
June 14, 2023
This is a great addition to the series. Tracy has a TBI from a horrific car accident and was actually introduced in the first book in this series. You don't have to read that book to know her character though. She is healing from that accident but still faces speaking challenges that frustrate her and is living in her hometown because it's comfortable for her. Chad is a writer for a satirical magazine who has come to town. He's recently lost his father and he feels adrift because his father was the head of the magazine and told them to let Chad go. Tracy is going to do everything in her power to keep Chad from writing a cutting article about her hometown filled with sweet, quirky elderly people. She's going to show him another way. Chad doesn't know what to think of Harmony Valley. He's never got up close and personal with people he writes about before! I really enjoyed all the home improvement mishaps he had and the way the elderly people showed him love & support. Can Chad change? What kind of article will he write for his magazine? Will Tracy's speech improve so she can find another job in her field and leave Harmony Valley? A heartfelt, emotional story once again!
April 18, 2016
Tracy Jackson is still recovering the accident that left her with expressive aphasia. To heal, she goes home to quirky Harmony Valley that is slowly dying, as one by one, its elderly members meet their maker. But Tracy's brother and two friends are trying to revitalize the town and have started a winery there. What the town needs is advertising, something Tracy used to be able to do, but now can't.
Along comes travel writer Chad Healy, but his snarky columns--before he was fired--aren't exactly what Tracy would like to see written about her beloved town. But no one else in town knows the guy or what he's written previously. She's not about for him to ruin her town's reputation or to make fun of its oddly endearing characters.
In the course of trying to convince him to go away, he helps her speak full sentences and she tries to show him that Harmony Valley doesn't deserve to be denigrated. How each of them begin to come to terms with their own personal issues is both endearing and funny. I couldn't put down their story until all was resolved. Great read!
Along comes travel writer Chad Healy, but his snarky columns--before he was fired--aren't exactly what Tracy would like to see written about her beloved town. But no one else in town knows the guy or what he's written previously. She's not about for him to ruin her town's reputation or to make fun of its oddly endearing characters.
In the course of trying to convince him to go away, he helps her speak full sentences and she tries to show him that Harmony Valley doesn't deserve to be denigrated. How each of them begin to come to terms with their own personal issues is both endearing and funny. I couldn't put down their story until all was resolved. Great read!
April 8, 2016
A Man of Influence is sweet romance by Melinda Curtis. It is a story that revolves around characters who live in Harmony Valley. This is Tracy Jackson and Chad Healy's love story.
Tracy didn't want to spend her life working in a coffee shop. She has always been a talker and loved working in her high profile job, but when she suffered an accident that she almost lost her life in she suffered a severe head injury that made verbal communication considerably difficult.
When Chad comes to town for the Harvest Festival in order to gain information about the town for his travel magazine Tracy is the only one who has ever heard of him and is concerned that he will hurt the town and it's longtime traditions.
Chad however sees something in the people and town that he has never seen before and finds himself helping out when and where he is needed. He has also been doing his best helping Tracy make her dreams come true.
I was given an ARC for an honest review. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Tracy didn't want to spend her life working in a coffee shop. She has always been a talker and loved working in her high profile job, but when she suffered an accident that she almost lost her life in she suffered a severe head injury that made verbal communication considerably difficult.
When Chad comes to town for the Harvest Festival in order to gain information about the town for his travel magazine Tracy is the only one who has ever heard of him and is concerned that he will hurt the town and it's longtime traditions.
Chad however sees something in the people and town that he has never seen before and finds himself helping out when and where he is needed. He has also been doing his best helping Tracy make her dreams come true.
I was given an ARC for an honest review. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
October 29, 2023
Melinda Curtis has re-introduced Tracy, an almost forgotten character from “Dandelion Wishes” (Book 1) and has woven a captivating story as she finds new motivation to experience life to the full.
Tracy’s self-confidence has nose-dived since an almost fatal accident two years previously resulted in expressive aphasia. Unable to speak fluently during interviews, she has settled for an undemanding job, serving coffee to the elderly residents of Harmony Valley… until satirical columnist, Chad, visits the town, looking for a story. With Tracy and Chad confronting one another’s ‘failures’, and being open to challenges, both develop the confidence to fulfil their personal potentials.
Each of the Harmony Valley books can be read independently; however, with occasional references being made to previous projects (eg the winery), it is advantageous and highly recommended to read all the books in this excellent series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tracy’s self-confidence has nose-dived since an almost fatal accident two years previously resulted in expressive aphasia. Unable to speak fluently during interviews, she has settled for an undemanding job, serving coffee to the elderly residents of Harmony Valley… until satirical columnist, Chad, visits the town, looking for a story. With Tracy and Chad confronting one another’s ‘failures’, and being open to challenges, both develop the confidence to fulfil their personal potentials.
Each of the Harmony Valley books can be read independently; however, with occasional references being made to previous projects (eg the winery), it is advantageous and highly recommended to read all the books in this excellent series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 18, 2023
This story follows Chad Healy Bostwick, left adrift, after he is fired from his recently deceased father’s magazine. He was the Editor-in-Chief with only 49% stock ownership so with the current circumstances, he’s out. Problem is, this job is how he defines himself – his main life focus. This big change leads him on a journey to prove himself...
His journey leads him to Tracy Jackson. She was in a really bad car accident and still has lingering effects. She is trying her best to get back to her “real” life, before the accident, but she is having a hard time. So this is the story of her journey, too. And when these two meet? Or collide? It is fantastic!
The story is sweet, and sad at times, and happy, and sometimes I felt so badly for these two. Chad and Tracy need to learn to trust one another and themselves (individually) because as we all know, they will be stronger together. And that “together” is adorable. Seriously, great sweet read.
His journey leads him to Tracy Jackson. She was in a really bad car accident and still has lingering effects. She is trying her best to get back to her “real” life, before the accident, but she is having a hard time. So this is the story of her journey, too. And when these two meet? Or collide? It is fantastic!
The story is sweet, and sad at times, and happy, and sometimes I felt so badly for these two. Chad and Tracy need to learn to trust one another and themselves (individually) because as we all know, they will be stronger together. And that “together” is adorable. Seriously, great sweet read.
April 30, 2016
Given to me for an honest review. I try to review books that I expect to really love or like. Unfortunately, I had a hard time caring about the characters in this book enough to rate it higher than 3 stars. You might disagree with me and I hope you do. Unfortunately, this is a Harlequin book and you do not have the advantage of looking inside (found on Amazon) before buying. Harmony Valley is filled with a lot of really old or medically challenged people. Almost all of the young people have left the town. Tracy had an accident that left her with problems finding or saying words when she talks. Because of this she rarely talks. Chad's magazine is taking a different path and his dead father wanted him to find something different to do. The company let him go. He goes to Harmony Valley hoping to find things that he can write about exactly the way he did before.
June 15, 2023
This was an awesomly cute story! I've wanted to know more about Tracy since she was mentioned in the first book (dandelion wishes). This story is hers, and Chad's
Chad just lost his father and his job in one day. He's a travel writer for his father's paper. His column is called the Happy Bachelor... but is he really happy? After he's fired, he grabs his last assignment (journeying to Harmony Valley and writing about it) and flees! Harmony Valley is so not ready for Chad.
Tracy has moved out of hers dad's house and is working at the bakery for Jess. She looks up Chad the day he comes to town and reads his past work... she realized he's going to tear her town to shreds...
Both of them feel the tug of feelings, but neither can trust them... can they let down their walls and trust each other?
Chad just lost his father and his job in one day. He's a travel writer for his father's paper. His column is called the Happy Bachelor... but is he really happy? After he's fired, he grabs his last assignment (journeying to Harmony Valley and writing about it) and flees! Harmony Valley is so not ready for Chad.
Tracy has moved out of hers dad's house and is working at the bakery for Jess. She looks up Chad the day he comes to town and reads his past work... she realized he's going to tear her town to shreds...
Both of them feel the tug of feelings, but neither can trust them... can they let down their walls and trust each other?
July 4, 2017
Tracy is back in her hometown working at the bakery. She is used to working in a high-profile job, but she was phased out of her job because she was in an accident and is having a hard time talking. She was told to reduce her stress. Chad was also phased out of his job when his father died. Even though he is part owner of the company, he has lost his job. He had been taking care of his elderly father and doing everything he could to do the job as his father wanted. Apparently, it wasn't enough. Now, he his trying to make a name for himself away from the company. Tracy feels the attraction to Chad but can't completely trust him because she feels he is out to ruin their small town. That is what he does and she just doesn't want it to happen to her town.
March 28, 2016
Loved this sweet story of taking chances and learning to love.
Tracy was outgoing and confident until a car accident took it all away from her. Now she struggles to form sentences and hides from her career in a bakery in small town Harmony Valley.
Chad is the Happy Bachelor...or his column was until his dad booted him out of the company upon his death. Now he's out to avenge and prove himself. And Harmony Valley looks like the best place. What he didn't expect was to fall in love with the town and the peopl or the change that would take place inside himself.
With the older townsfolk constantly throwing them together will these two find happiness together or will change be something they shy away from and stay in their comfort zones?
Tracy was outgoing and confident until a car accident took it all away from her. Now she struggles to form sentences and hides from her career in a bakery in small town Harmony Valley.
Chad is the Happy Bachelor...or his column was until his dad booted him out of the company upon his death. Now he's out to avenge and prove himself. And Harmony Valley looks like the best place. What he didn't expect was to fall in love with the town and the peopl or the change that would take place inside himself.
With the older townsfolk constantly throwing them together will these two find happiness together or will change be something they shy away from and stay in their comfort zones?
June 19, 2023
What a moving book. Tracy Jackson is trying to put her life back together. She’s doing it working at Martins Bakery. She’s loving it only until maybe something else comes along. After her accident things weren’t easy. She loves her family, and the community of Harmony Valley. They’re all wonderful people. When one day a stranger walks in, and she forgets how to talk. But what she finds out later about the stranger it isn’t good.
Chad has lost a lot, and now in a small town of Harmony Valley he doesn’t know what to make of it.
He is after all a writer. The only thing is once he gets to know Tracy, and the town things change for him.
See what happens and pick this book up. You won’t be disappointed.
Chad has lost a lot, and now in a small town of Harmony Valley he doesn’t know what to make of it.
He is after all a writer. The only thing is once he gets to know Tracy, and the town things change for him.
See what happens and pick this book up. You won’t be disappointed.
July 8, 2023
Tracy is back in her hometown working at the bakery. She is used to working in a high-profile job, but she was phased out of her job because she was in an accident and is having a hard time talking. She was told to reduce her stress. Chad was also phased out of his job when his father died. Even though he is part owner of the company, he has lost his job. He had been taking care of his elderly father and doing everything he could to do the job as his father wanted. Apparently, it wasn't enough. Now, he his trying to make a name for himself away from the company. Tracy feels the attraction to Chad but can't completely trust him because she feels he is out to ruin their small town. That is what he does and she just doesn't want it to happen to her town.
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October 3, 2023
Tracy Jackson is a sweet person and after her accident with her very best friend things were taken away from her. She’s come back to Harmony Valley, and Now working in Martins Bakery as a coffee barista. The day a stranger comes in and she has a problem putting a sentence together. The only thing is it’s partially to do with the accident.
When Chad Bostwick was a writer for The Happy Bachelor on the Road. When he walks into the bakery he doesn’t even say anything when she has an issue with her speech. He’s caring, but he does make her nuts at times.
Tracy doesn’t like Chad because Harmony Valley and everyone in the town are her family. How dare he say anything bad about them.
Highly recommend this book.
When Chad Bostwick was a writer for The Happy Bachelor on the Road. When he walks into the bakery he doesn’t even say anything when she has an issue with her speech. He’s caring, but he does make her nuts at times.
Tracy doesn’t like Chad because Harmony Valley and everyone in the town are her family. How dare he say anything bad about them.
Highly recommend this book.
October 30, 2023
Sweet and clean romance. Part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
Tracy loses her job at a advertising agency after she gets into an accident and struggles now with her speech. She comes to Harmony Valley to recover and find a new life. She starts working in the local bakery/coffee shop. A good looking visitor comes in and they start to get to know each other. He is trying to find his way as well. He decides he doesn't want to stay in a small town and believes Tracy can do better in a bigger city. Wil lit work out? will they stay or go?
Cute story. You know the author can write well when you feel the need to slap one of the characters up the side of the head! LOL Easy read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tracy loses her job at a advertising agency after she gets into an accident and struggles now with her speech. She comes to Harmony Valley to recover and find a new life. She starts working in the local bakery/coffee shop. A good looking visitor comes in and they start to get to know each other. He is trying to find his way as well. He decides he doesn't want to stay in a small town and believes Tracy can do better in a bigger city. Wil lit work out? will they stay or go?
Cute story. You know the author can write well when you feel the need to slap one of the characters up the side of the head! LOL Easy read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2023
This story will make more sense if read in order with the other Love in Harmony Valley books due to continuing characters. This book is a tangle of emotions some funny some tragic. Chad buries his dad and then finds out that his dad didn't want him to continue writing for the family company so Chad sets out to prove to the company what they will be missing. He comes to Harmony Valley to try and find a story. Tracy is still trying to overcome the effects of the car accident she was involved in and find her way again. These two challenge each other and hold each other accountable. Add in all of the octogenarian characters and the animals and you get quite the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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