Stephanie Fitzpatrick wanted out of the spotlight after her pro-golfer husband was caught on camera cheating. But when she returns to Michigan for a job interview and some much-needed R&R, a fib told by her well-meaning sister has her looking for a temporary fiancé, or she can kiss her new start good-bye.
Desperate to hide the truth, she goes to the one man who can help—her former best friend.
Miles Masterson is relieved to see the Checkerberry Inn beginning to thrive once more. Not only does it ease his mind about his grandmother’s financial future, but also about his decision to finally escape town. But then one all grown up and sexy as hell friend from the past shows up needing rescue. Now the temptation to change the “temporary” arrangement into something more is making it harder to think about leaving.
Each book in the Checkerberry Inn series is a standalone, full-length story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Kyra Jacobs is an extroverted introvert who writes of love, humor and mystery in the Midwest and beyond. When this Hoosier native isn’t pounding out scenes for her next book, she's likely outside, elbow-deep in snapdragons or spending quality time with her sports-loving family. Kyra also loves to read, tries to golf, and is an avid college football fan. Be sure to stop by her website www.KyraJacobsBooks.com to learn more about her novels and ways to connect with her on social media.
Her Unexpected Engagement was an enjoyable light-spirited romance read. The kind of book that gives you warm and fuzzy feelings all because of its sweet portrayal of second chance romance. I've never read anything by Kyra Jacobs prior to this book but her way of writing captivated me. It was so Harlequin-ish and it certainly brought out nostalgic feels.
The story started when Stephanie Fitzpatrick's famous golf player ex-husband cheated on her in public. Fresh from heartache, she went back to her roots in Michigan to start a new life. By going back there, however, her heart got confused when she reunited with her college best friend Miles Masterson who also happened to be someone she secretly loved before she fell for her ex.
The setting was one of the things that made me fall in love with this book. Checkerberry Inn was beautifully described and living in this romantic place through the pages made me feel so comfortable. I also loved both the main characters and how their romantic development was built up. They certainly have that chemistry.
All throughout the book I found myself swooning, smiling, and laughing over how sweet their reunion was. There were of course scenes that I consider my favorite especially the one where Stephanie cooked a baked ziti that ended up in a disaster lol.
This book, as a whole, was a pleasure to read. Fast-paced, heartfelt, and with a little pinch of humor, this was one of the beautiful reunion romance books I've ever read! :)
(An ARC was provided by Entangled: Bliss and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
Kyra Jacobs takes us back to Michigan for the second book in her Checkerberry Inn series, bringing readers a romance between a couple who were once best-friends.
"She was exactly the kind of temptation he didn’t need."
Miles and Stephanie have a wonderful chemistry from the moment they're reacquainted and, despite Stephanie leaving her hometown to follow her pro-golfer and now ex-husband, she soon falls back into the comfort and familiarity of her surroundings and Miles' company. For Miles she was the one that got away, largely due to the fact that he never revealed his feelings as he doesn't believe love can last, but she's back...right when he's on the verge of leaving and she needs his help.
Endearing characters who bring intimacy, humour and emotion, Stephanie and Miles have their insecurities but they're realistic and relatable and with Miles' family providing the family feel and interfering in the best possible way, Her Unexpected Engagement was an easy, enjoyable read. Kyra Jacobs has a lovely writing style and her stories are always a pleasure to read; I'm already looking forward to returning to the Checkerberry Inn.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Her Unexpected Engagement was a beautifully written and heartwarming read.
I really enjoyed Her Unexpected Engagement, the storyline was sweet, entertaining and my interest from start to end. Miles and Stephanie were likable, relatable characters that I easily connected with. Loved watching them open up to each other, learning to trust and taking another chance at love. They truly were perfect for each other and I knew without a doubt they found their happily everafter.
I'm loving the Checkerberry Inn series, author Kyra Jacobs has given us enjoyable storylines, with memorable and engaging characters that will leave you with a smile on your face. I highly recommend this book & series.
Once I started this book I couldn't put it down! It is an fantastic read with an incredible storyline that makes you want to keep turning the page to find out the end. Until this book I have never heard of Kyra Jacobs but after getting invited to NetGalley to read her book in exchange for a honest review, this author will be permanently on my look out list. She took an ordinary idea and turned it extraordinary story. It took two longtime friends who turned into lovers. Kyra's writing style is truly amazing. I love how Kyra developed the characters and gave them a past together... this allows the book to really flow well. I have enjoyed reading this Her Unexpected Engagement and I am sure you will too!
“Her Unexpected Engagement” is the second book in the Checkerberry Inn series by Kyra Jacobs. I read the first one and enjoyed it, so I was more than ready for this book. The Checkerberry Inn is the perfect backdrop for romance; it’s like a Hallmark movie with a touch of extra spiciness. Like a cup of warm cider with just a splash of bourbon.
The Story- Stephanie has had a crap time of it. Her jerk ex-husband is a famous golfer who cheated on her in a very public way, which has made her suspicious, self-conscious, and defeated. When a chance at a great new job and new start presents itself, she doesn’t expect to come face to face with her almost past. Miles has been spinning his wheels while everyone else’s lives seem to be sprinting by. He wants a new shot at being his own man, but when Stephanie comes back to town, he must decide what that change will be.
My Thoughts- While not earth-shattering, this story feels very real. I identified with Stephanie and loved seeing her regain her confidence. Miles is the kind of “hero” that almost any gal could see themselves settling down with: kind, funny, adores you, and helps make you a stronger, better person. I loved their relationship and really felt like the history justified how it develops. I would have liked to see more from the secondary characters, particularly the ones we met in the original Checkerberry novel, but when they were there, they brought a nice depth to the story. I also could have used even more description of the scenery and the inn. As someone who is enduring the longest summer of my life in southern Louisiana, a beautiful B&B in Michigan sounds like a slice of heaven.
The Good- Like I said, Miles is wonderful. He’s the hot “guy next door” that we wish we actually lived next door to. Stephanie’s journey and progression was compelling, and I loved the outcome at the party. Everyone wants that moment in their lives. The Checkerberry Inn is a great backdrop, especially for people who love quaint and comfy settings. (Like me)
The Bottom Line- I enjoyed this read. It was relaxing and happy and comforting: all the things I look for when I pick up a Bliss novel. At the same time, it deals with some very real issues in a very satisfying way. I will definitely be reading the next books in this series! 4 stars
I don't think I could have picked a more perfect weekend read. After reading the first in the Checkerberry Inn series, I knew I'd snatch up any subsequent books and I wasn't disappointed with that call. This one revolves around the Checkerberry Inn and features Miles--the hunky CFO who nudged the HEA along in book 1--and it was sooo enjoyable to watch him fall.
The heroine, Stephanie, was an equal treat to read. An intelligent and confident woman growing up, she's been brought low by the circumstances of her marriage and has headed to the Checkerberry Inn to lick her wounds. Then, low and behold, she runs into (or maybe I should say he runs into--literally) her high school bestie, Miles.
I love, love, love friends-to-lover stories and this one brought all the goodness of a great trope as well as rich characterization, beautiful surroundings, and outstanding emotion. If you're in need of a getaway with heart, Her Unexpected Engagement is just the ticket.
Stephanie's husband cheated on her and he did it on camera. His pro-golfer image was more important than his wife's career and he cost her everything she had. Stephanie's sister has arranged a job interview for Stephanie, something that definitely lifts her spirits. There's only one catch, Stephanie needs a fiancé. To get a wonderful new job she has to find someone quickly. Fortunately she can always count on her former best friend Miles.
Miles needs a new start. He's working together with his family at the Checkerberry Inn and while the company is becoming a huge success there's something missing from his life. That's why he decides to accept a job in a different town. He wants to move away and find that happiness he so desperately wants. He only has a short period left and that is when he meets Stephanie again. He used to be in love with her, but never let her know. When she asks him to help her out he says yes immediately. He doesn't mind playing the part of fiancé. Will this be his chance with the woman he used to want so badly or has everything changed between them?
Miles is a hardworking man who's honorable and friendly. He's also a bit of a player, but deep down he wants the kind of love he sees all around him. He's a gentleman and he's treating Stephanie well, which is what I liked about him the most. Stephanie used to have a sparkling personality and while her ex-husband managed to take some of it from her she's finding it back. I loved seeing that spark and I kept wishing she'd find her strength back too. She's kindhearted and caring and she only wants the best for others. Stephanie is a warm and intelligent woman who deserves a great future with a loving man and I couldn't wait to see if she would get it.
Kyra Jacobs has a lovely vivid writing style that flows easily. I loved the setting she's chosen for her stories, it comes to life incredibly well. Her main characters are likable and amazing. It isn't difficult to want the best for them. It's why I'm always reading her books in one sitting, to see if there will be another heartwarming romantic ending. Her Unexpected Engagement doesn't disappoint at all as usual, it's fabulously endearing and I really enjoyed reading this fantastic book.
Stephanie Fitzpatrick's pro-golfer husband betrayed her in the spotlight, and the humiliation was crippling. She wanted nothing more that to stay out of the spotlight, but the media stay camped outside of her door. So basically, she became a hermit, until her sister's made her come home to Michigan for a job interview, and some much needed breathing room. Her sister thought she was well meaning when she told the people that Stephanie was engaged now, so it has her trying to find a temporary finance. So she swallows her pride, and goes to her former best friend, who she's held a secret torch for, and asks for his help. Miles Masterson is ready to move on after the Checkerberry Inn is starting to thrive again. It eases his mind that his grandmother will be financially secure, but he's still harboring guilt about leaving them. Just when he's about to escape town to start over somewhere else, his super sexy, best friend that he stopped talking to, strolls in needing rescue. He's been in love with her since college, but she married someone else, so he stopped all contact with her. Of course, she's a bit miffed about it, and isn't quite as excited to see him, but when she needs some help, he agrees. As they spend time together again, the feelings get to them, and they embark on a temporary arrangement. But when he starts thinking about their temporary arrangement becoming permanent, will he be able to leave town for his new job?
Her Unexpected Engagement is a very sweet story that I enjoyed. The character development is good, with a colorful cast of secondaries that I loved. The secret love that Stephanie, and Miles felt for each other, was portrayed with realistic writing of how sometimes silence isn't the best way to go. Kyra Jacobs has a talented writing style the lured me in, which left me with the need to find out what happens, so I devoured it in one sitting. A few twists made it interesting, and well placed humor had me laughing. My one issue was that I felt like the ending was a bit rushed, and I really wanted to see more of these characters. That doesn't change the fact that I will be reading more of this author, and I do HIGHLY RECOMMEND this sweet story of second chances!
This is the first time in a very long time that I've gone against my rule of not reading a book in the middle of a series when I haven't read the books that came prior. I think I was pulled in by the statement on Goodreads that reads: Each book in the Checkerberry Inn series is a standalone, full-length story that can be enjoyed out of order. I think that this is what did the story in for me. I'm not completely sure why I wasn't a fan, but I really do suspect that it's my own damn fault for not sticking to my rules.
It kind of goes without saying that I absolutely adore any book that comes from Entangled and any of their zillion imprints. I know that when I pick up one of their books that I will just love it but that most definitely didn't happen this time.
I'm not sure why I didn't like this book ... the characters are okay, the plot was okay, I kept reading ... although reluctantly at times ... maybe it has something to do with the characters. They really didn't stand out for me. I read this book over a week ago and I honestly had to look up the names of the characters so that I could write this review. That's not a good thing. I want characters to grab me by my metaphorical balls and take me for a ride! That didn't happen. I want to be swept up in the story and lose track of time because I'm so immersed in the book. Now, that didn't happen either. I actually found the pace of the story to be VERY slow. Painfully slow. I just wanted to smack it on the ass and get it moving along.
I guess I figured out why I didn't like the book, didn't I. The pace was too slow for me, the characters didn't stand a chance in my memory and the story didn't keep me coming back for more. And that's okay, some readers like a slower paced book that they can sink into but I'd rather have it moving a bit faster and drum up some excitement while the pages fly past me. I'm not too sure that this author is the right one for me.
* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *
This is a novel about best friends and second chances.
Miles runs the family Inn alongside his grandmother and cousin. He feels "stuck" and is having itchy feet and wanderlust! He is all set for a job interview which will give him what he wants if he is offered the job.
Stephanie is disillusioned as her marriage has just devolved due to her husband's indiscretions. Her ex being a pro golfer, this affair went public and Stephanie is being hounded by the press. Her sister arranges a job interview to give her a much needed break and a chance to regain her confidence.
Stephanie and Miles are old time friends and they bump into each other, literally, when she goes to check in at the Inn. She has sworn off men after her ordeal with her ex but now that she has reconnected with Miles, she is unable to get him off her mind. Miles has been carrying the torch for Stephanie forever but past experience has taught him that there is no happily ever after. Besides, getting involved with Stephanie can only lead to pain and she is the last person that he would hurt. She has been through enough!
It just so happens that Stephanie's sister told a white lie to the prospective employer. Stephanie is engaged! She can think only of one person who she can trust to play along as her pretend fiancé. Can they keep up the pretense or will they have enough courage to address what should have happened ten years ago?
I like the comfortable camaderie between Stephanie and Miles. They understand and support each other. It's a sweet romance which shows that true love prevails but I would have liked to have seen a little more of what happens in the epilogue.
I was kindly issued with an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest review.
Cute friends to lovers romance! Miles and Stephanie are childhood friends sho drifted apart after she got married. Miles has a reputation for being a playboy, but that's only because he lost his chance with the only woman he ever loved - Stephanie. Now that she's back in town, old feelings resurface and soon pretend relationship is all too real. It was a quick read and perfect for an afternoon if you're looking fore something light.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. I was not compensated for this review, all conclusions are my own.
Stephanie & Miles grew up together & didn't acknowledge anything but friendship existed between them. But when did those feelings change? "From the first time you came busting through the hedgerow between our yards, chasing after that silly pink Frisbee of yours."
Stephanie has just been publicly embarrassed by her husband, kissing another woman in public. Instead of standing up & putting the blame on him, she allowed it to give her panic attacks at being in public. She decides to go home to Michigan & runs into Mike's.
Miles has stayed home & steered the family inn through tough times. Since his cousin is in a serious relationship & he moved home, Miles feels that he can finally leave & follow his dreams.
What a terrific second chance at love story! The characters were realistic, likable people. The situations they found themselves in were perfectly described & life like. I felt there was the perfect amount of detail about their prior history together & how it was affecting their current relationship. This was Book 2 but was easily read as a stand alone. I do feel I need to go back & get Book 1 but only because I'm curious as to Brent & Kayla's story. Can't wait to read Maggie's story!
Stephanie has been hit hard by her husband cheating on her on national television. For the last 5 months, she has hidden in her house to avoid the press. When she does go out, she wears a disguise and often has panic attacks. Her sisters are pushing her to get on with her life and come home. When she agrees to come home for an interview, she runs into the guy who used to be her best friend and secret crush, Miles.
Miles is surprised to see Stephanie. For him, she is the one who got away. Unfortunately she couldn’t have shown up at a worst time. He’s been getting antsy hanging around his hometown and being the CFO of his family’s Inn. He is waiting on a job offer that would take him several hours away, unbeknownst to her.
They decide to spend a week together and just have fun. Feelings change. Both have issues to work through. Both are supportive and encouraging of the other. This is a sweet, very minimal angst story set in a small town with lots of family involvement.
This is the second book in the series but my first book by this author. I easily read it as a standalone. However, it did peak my curiosity about Kayla and Brent’s story. I look forward to Maggie’s book!
I enjoy books where they both liked each other but never acted on it growing up. He didn't think he was good enough for her and that love never lasted. She thought that he didn't have any feelings for him and married someone else just because and that just because turned out to be awful.
When they meet up again. everyone knows but them that they are good together. And with a little shove in a temporary needed engagement to get past her celebrity breakup they are unofficially and unexpectedly temporarily engaged so she can get this job near her family.
Sparks fly and it's not long.before they both fall into their old routine and become very comfortable with each other again. I love to see that in a relationship; that they know they can be themselves with the other without fear of rejection or judgment. And their relationship flows so easily in words that I really wanted their temporary to become permanent!
If you like friends to lovers, helping kids in need, finding that one person you were meant to be with than this is it!
Received this book from NetGalley for an honest review. I absolutely loved this book, having not read this author before I was pleasantly surprised. Stephanie who is trying to get past her cheating pro golfer ex-husband and reconnects with her best friend Miles. You can't help but fall in love with Miles. Great read!
Just what the doctor recommended. After weeks of illnesses and healing, my head's been a mess, not one book felt right, till this baby fell into my lap. This is exactly what I needed to reset my brain.
Miles is the perfect, confused, so in love MMC and Stephanie is the perfect demure yet strong FMC. What's refreshing is that there's no drama, no open doors s*x all the freaking time, no complication. A simple, beautiful love story. And sometimes that's exactly what a weary mind needs.
Overall, a sweet, simple, summery little read, perfect for a reset.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
After a very humiliating public reveal that her husband, Liam, was cheating on her, Stephanie needs to get away from everything having to do with her previous life. Her sister, Livvy, connects her with a potential job in their home state of Michigan and Stephanie eagerly takes the chance. As she's struggling to adapt to her new present, her past bumps into her in the form of her former best friend, Miles. The one who essentially disappeared from her life, despite her attempts to the contrary.
Miles is looking for a fresh start away from his family obligations and he may have found it as he's gotten an interview with a company in Ohio. He's excited about the possibilities for his future, but seeing Stephanie again brings back all of his former, more than just friends, feelings that he had for her. He never got the chance to tell her how he felt back then before her now ex-husband swept her off her feet. He's wondering if now it's their time.
However, there is a little catch that Livvy waited until the last minute to tell Stephanie. See, Livvy, wanting Stephanie's new boss, Chris, to be confident she was over Liam, having seen the debacle unfold publicly, informs him that Stephanie is engaged. So, now what's Stephanie to do? She needs this job and now she needs a fiancé.
Will Miles agree to help Stephanie? How long will it take Stephanie to realize Miles doesn't have to fake his feelings for her? Will Miles finally admit he loves her and always has? Will Stephanie confess that she had feelings for him in college? Can she risk her heart again? What about Miles's decision to move to Ohio? Will Miles and Stephanie finally have their chance to be together? Will they get their HEA? Or are they just not meant to be?
One-click now to follow along as two people discover that love is worth waiting for.
While I liked this story as a whole, I just couldn't really connect as much as I would've liked to with Miles. It seems Miles had, or has, quite a reputation and I really didn't like the references to it. Nor that the first time we met him he's thinking about his date with Amber later that night and how he's hoping it ends up...their first date. So yeah, there's a little insight into his personality. Thankfully, this was before he saw Stephanie again and after seeing her, he couldn't stop thinking about her, therefore his date went horribly. So much so that he even called his date by Stephanie's name, twice. I just really could've done without these things. This is just purely my personal opinion, but I would've liked the book more without those instances.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
*Copy provided to the reviewer via NetGalley for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
This book can be perfectly read as a standalone like I did, while the couple from the first book shows up in it, I never felt lost.
Miles is ready for a change. He feels he's not as needed at the Checkerberry Inn now that his cousin is happy and in love with Kayla and that they can both help his grandma run the inn. What he didn't count on was having his past crash back into his life, quite literally, too, in the form of Stephanie Fitzgerald, the woman he's compared every other woman who has ever graced his bed, who is back in town for an interview.
Stephanie has had a very hard few last months after the very publicized kiss her ex-husband planted on another woman on national TV. She's been hiding in her home in Florida, but at her family's insistence has applied for a job back in Michigan. Finding Miles, her childhood best friend, who she grew apart from when she married Liam wasn't what she expected. To have all the feelings she'd once had for him come back wasn't, either.
Ten years ago, their timing wasn't in their favor, but would a fake engagement help them to get it right this time around?
I really liked Miles, I thought he was a fascinating character, with several layers. I liked that he wanted to make something for himself and that he was unapologetic of his past, because, really, it wasn't like he was hurting anyone. It took me a while to warm up to Stephanie, though. I didn't quite like that she kept comparing Miles to her cheating ex, especially since Miles was supposed to be her best friend back when they were still in college. Another thing that kind of irked me was when she found out that Miles had applied to a job in Cleveland and she took it as a personal affront, even when Miles exposed his motives. And I wasn't too happy that after all the hype with the job, Miles decided to just quit it in the end and take another one so he could be with Stephanie. It just made no sense to me.
I loved Brent and Kayla and how meddling they were, at least they managed to make both Miles and Stephanie move forward from their first misunderstanding.
Other than that, the book was fast-paced, well-written, very low heat (really, just kisses and then fade to black *sighs*), but still entertaining. Recommendable.
Fake romance mixed with a second chance at romance for these former childhood best friends in a small town
Her Unexpected Engagement takes on the theme of a fake romance mixed with a second chance at romance for these former childhood best friends in a small town. The book is fairly light-hearted with some tense moments and a little bit of drama that builds up throughout the book but ends up with a HEA to make this a standalone read. Also, personally, I have not read the previous book in this series but while I can see it would me more enjoyable for those that did, I followed along no problem.
Told from dual points of views, Stephanie and Miles have a simmering attraction to each other that is secretly bubbling away. Despite the time that has passed since they last saw each other, their attraction and feelings are still there and this time aren’t kept under wraps after circumstances force then together, something that is clear from early on. It’s fun reading how they work their budding relationship and have to face up to some issues before they can get to a HEA, adding some tense moments for realism. Both characters were likeable and relatable.
The book is well written and fast paced, set over only a week but given the history of the characters, which is made clear over the book, it worked with that foundation. The author managed to express the raw emotion and vulnerability of both characters well - both are trying to find a way to get happiness and peace in their hearts. Her Unexpected Engagement is a mostly clean romance with not really anything too explicit, more just a slight hint. The epilogue rounded off the story well, giving it a HEA and making it a standalone read.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this fairly quick read to any romance fans who enjoy a well written fake romance or second chance romance.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Entangled Publishing via NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Sometimes, a story just doesn’t work for you. It’s no one’s fault really, there’s certainly nothing wrong with this book, sadly it just didn’t do it for me.
Stephanie, the very publicly cuckolded ex-wife of a pro-golfer, is back home after a decade. The paparazzi attention alone has pushed her from being a confident and lively person into a tired and anxiety riddled woman in desperate need of a reboot back to her old self.
Miles has finally set in motion his plans to leave his job at the family inn and go for his dream career. Now he only needs to land the job and break the news to his family, but when his best friend since childhood comes back home and asks him to help her out… well, things start to fall out of line.
Her Unexpected Engagement is a friends-to-lovers type of story, which, truth be told I’m not a huge fan of. Add to it that both main characters acted in ways I found annoying meant I didn’t really connect to either of them.
Allison’s complete meltdown after she found out what a pig her ex was, I could understand to a point, then I just felt it was an over the top reaction that didn’t quite fit with what the person she was supposed to be before.
Miles was a guy who didn’t realize he had feelings for his best friend until too late, and then he didn’t do anything about it. He had an aversion to relationships due to a situation in his past. What totally killed him to me was his lack of action regarding one specific topic .
In the end, while not a bad read, as it was hard for me to relate to either character and their lack of open communication drove me batty wasn’t the most enjoyable read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book*
Steph comes back home to Michigan to regroup after she found out on national TV that her husband a pro-golfer, had been cheating with someone else’s wife. Her sister found her a perfect job offer. There’s just one MAJOR problem, her soon to be boss thinks she’s not only over her ex husband, but that she’s now engaged to her childhood best friend Miles. Who she had started to have feelings for in college, but then Liam came along and they end up leaving for Florida.
Miles trips over, literally, Steph’s suitcases as he’s leaving his grandmother’s inn for the day. Talk about a blast from the past….. During college his feeling toward her had changed from just best friends (her as just one of the guys), to romantic ones. The day before he could tell her she runs off and gets married to Liam, talk about lost opportunity! Now he has a job interview, but she blows right back into town and his life.
What is Miles going to do, stay in Michigan working at his grandmother’s inn or take the job offer in Ohio? You’ll have to read HER UNEXPECTED ENGAGEMENT to find out. Although this is the 2nd book in the series, each book in the Checkerberry Inn series is a standalone, full-length story that can be enjoyed out of order. I want to read HER UNEXPECTED DETOUR Book #1 to see where it started, what I missed and I hope not only that there will be a 3rd book, but that it will be out soon. It’s a cute romantic love story with quirky best friend banter and missed opportunity that endS as a HEA. I received an ARC via IndieSage through NetGalley in exchange for an honest blog tour review.
FAVORITE PASSAGE ~ – Welcome to Michigan, where the center lane is your safest bet…
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the second in a series but you really don't have to had read the first book. It was an okay read for me. I just wanted to love the main guy character way more. He was just not my favorite.
I was ready to check into the Inn by the end of this story!!
Stephanie was humiliated when her husband cheated on her on television and went into hiding for a bit. Now ready to move forward, she's headed home to Michigan for a job interview. Little does she know that her younger sister has told her perspective employer that she's completely over her ex's indiscretions and engaged to another man to show how emotionally stable she is. There is only one person who could potentially fill the role and that is her childhood best friend, Miles. Miles is convinced that there is no such thing as happily ever after. He's feeling restless at the inn and waiting to hear about an amazing job offer that could fulfill all of his dreams. He's not expecting to see Stephanie again after distancing himself from her after she got married. He can agree to a brief, fake engagement to help his former best friend get back on her feet without getting caught up, right?
I loved these two together. Their friendship allowed them to call each other out but also led to some miscommunication. This story was light on angst. It's a sweet, hopeful read that kept me smiling. I did not read book one in this series but will definitely be reading it soon!
*This is my voluntary review of an Advanced Reader Copy*
I whipped my way through this book and enjoyed every page. Stephanie and Miles have been friends since they were children but haven’t seen each other for a considerable period of time but now they are back together, time may have passed but the feelings they had are still there and fighting them is verging on being futile. The author dished up the book from both points of view and I think that they both needed the opportunity to express themselves. They had plenty to work through before the got to a place where they could have a happy relationship but I liked that they were willing to put in the effort.They were a really nice couple, I found them easy to empathise with. I also liked the fact the book covered a singular period of time, after all a week is a long time when it comes to affairs of the heart! The author was able to keep the tone of the story fairly light but there were elements of angst that provided the much-needed contrast that the characters required, life isn’t smooth sailing they had to overcome the bumps as they fought to find their happiness. As far as a solid romance, this was everything you could possible want. Fabulously written this is a great way to spend a few hours on a winters day.
This was a cute story, with some enjoyable characters. Stephanie is a great heroine and I loved her feistiness and humor. She was a fantastic match to Miles, who is a little rough around the edges while he figures out what exactly he wants.
The setting of a smaller town in Michigan was a lot of fun and I really loved how it was described and how it worked with the story. This was my first Checkerberry Inn book, and first Kyra Jacobs book, and I adored every page.
There wasn't all that much "fake dating" in this, despite the title and the fact that Miles and Stephanie are fake-"engaged." There was, however, history between these two that helped to flesh out their story and really make you root for them to finally get it together.
All in all, a sweet and sexy story that was a very quick read!
I received an ARC from the publisher to voluntarily review. This is no way influenced my review. My opinion is my own.
Her Unexpected Engagement is a second chance, friends to lovers story and I loved it!
I haven't read any of Kyra Jacobs' books before this but I'm definitely going to read the first book in the series (Her Unexpected Detour).
Miles and Steph were best friends growing up until things changed at college - neither was confident enough to face the growing attraction they felt and Stephanie ended up with someone else, ultimately making both of them unhappy and just getting through life. Following a very public breakdown of her marriage, Steph has returned home and through circumstances beyond her control, needs Miles' help as her temporary 'fake fiance'.
It was a quick, sweet read with likable leads, a real slimy git of an ex-husband, great supporting characters and an engaging story line that kept my attention.
I'm giving Her Unexpected Engagement 5*
I received a copy of the book for an honest review but I've also 1-c'd my own copy
"Her Unexpected Engagement" by Kyra Jacobs is Stephanie Fitzpatrick and Miles Masterson's story.
Stephanie and Miles were best friends growing up. Once Stephanie got engaged, married, and moved away they lost touch.
Miles stayed in Michigan to help turn around his grandmother's inn. Now, that's things are going great at the inn he is seeking his dream job but he hasn't told his family.
After a public divorce Stephanie is back in Michigan to interview for a job, visit her family, and just get away.
Stephanie and Miles path's cross again. Let's just say it wasn't a warm meeting. When Stephanie finds out that the job she wants they think she is engaged. So, she goes to Miles for help because is the only one she trusts. Will Miles agree to this?
I enjoyed this story. Miles and Stephanie are great for one another. Hopefully, they will get their act together so they can have their happily ever after.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I love friends to lovers books! This is book 2 in the Checkerberry Inn series and I have not read book 1 and wasn't confused at all!
Stephanie had to watch her husband (a pro golfer) cheating on camera! She's now looking for a new start in life and returns to Michigan for a job interview. Her wonderful sister told a little white lie and now Stephanie is looking for a temporary fiance. Well, since she doesn't have a fiance she does the only thing she can think to do...she approaches her former best friend for help.
Miles and Stephanie grew up together and haven't seen each other for a while. Imagine his surprise when she's back in town all grown up and needing his help!
What a great story! I don't think I've ever read a story that one of the main characters was a golfer, I liked it! The characters were great and the story was captivating from the beginning!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing LLC (Bliss) via NetGalley for a copy of this book!