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Sweet & Sassy Anthology: Sand and Kisses
Five new clean romance novellas from Sweet & Sassy Anthologies.
Open for Love by Elana Johnson
Sabrina Arnold loves running her family's Bed & Breakfast in sunny New Orleans. What she doesn't love is the new establishment going up right next door. While Bri's snooping around the place to see how it compares to hers, she's caught by tall, dark, and handsome Carter Hammond.
What she doesn't know is that Carter owns the property where she's trespassing, though he claims he doesn't. He's in New Orleans to start his first business venture, get out from underneath his father's thumb, and learn about the mother he's never known. As he and Bri spend more time together, he knows it's only a matter of time before she finds out that he owns the building she hates. Can their fledgling, summer love survive against the odds?
Secrets in the Sand by Cindy M. Hogan
Sometimes staying hidden, even for a spy, is nearly impossible.
Christy Hadden, spy extraordinaire, thinks she’s created the perfect getaway in beautiful South Beach, Florida. A place where she and her handler, Jeremy, can give their forbidden romance a chance - in secret.
But when they hear cries of alarm in an alley nearby, they can’t resist the pull to help, even if it exposes them. And when Christy becomes a person of interest in a murder committed in that same alley, they must hunt down the real killers and clear
Christy's name.
In this game of hide and seek, it seems their secret is sure to be found out. Christy may have to choose between the love of her life and her life's purpose - and the stakes are higher than she ever bargained for.
Life’s a Beach by Jo Noelle
Jenna Brennan doesn’t believe in love. She doesn’t believe in marriage, and she’s learned to only count on herself. At her Uncle Walter’s insistence, and a little emotional blackmail, she returns to Misty Harbor Cottages to help him for one last summer in a place that's really the only home she’s ever known.
Cole Zamora has worked at Misty Harbor for more than half of his twenty-three years, and imagined someday owning the place. He met Jenna when they were ten-years-old, and his young heart fell hard for her, relishing every summer she came back. That is, until two years ago, when she broke his heart and never returned.
Uncle Walter proposes a challenge between the two, with the winner becoming the new owner of Misty Harbor. Now, there’s a real chance Cole could lose his heart and his home. Jenna isn’t sure which worries her more—a summer of rivalry or romance?
The Upgrade by Candice Toone
Moving on after college can be tough. Especially when former sorority president and dance team captain, Amanda Ford, takes a job at her alma mater. Her big plans to help host a study abroad tour to Peru and to launch a dance fitness program back on campus nearly come undone when she meets Spencer Elliott, an adorable undergrad who’d love to date the girl she used to be. She gives in to a final hurrah date, but regrets that choice when Spencer shows up at the study abroad orientation. Customs regulations, professional insecurities and social unrest combine to challenge Amanda’s developing professional prowess, often leaving her pitifully vulnerable to the unfortunate combination of an emerging sense of self, a handsome near-stranger, and a beautiful Peruvian beach.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver
When Anna meets much-younger-looking Derek while on vacation at the beach-it’s not exactly love at first sight. How could a handsome surfer be interested in a divorcee like her? When she finds their age difference is nominal and that she and Derek share a love for all things Star Trek, she hopes love might blossom. But, long-distance relationships are tough. And when a waitress mistakes her for Derek’s mom, she starts to doubt the budding romance. Can a California surf-connoisseur and an older woman who sucks at all things water-sports find enough common ground to make a relationship work?
Open for Love by Elana Johnson
Sabrina Arnold loves running her family's Bed & Breakfast in sunny New Orleans. What she doesn't love is the new establishment going up right next door. While Bri's snooping around the place to see how it compares to hers, she's caught by tall, dark, and handsome Carter Hammond.
What she doesn't know is that Carter owns the property where she's trespassing, though he claims he doesn't. He's in New Orleans to start his first business venture, get out from underneath his father's thumb, and learn about the mother he's never known. As he and Bri spend more time together, he knows it's only a matter of time before she finds out that he owns the building she hates. Can their fledgling, summer love survive against the odds?
Secrets in the Sand by Cindy M. Hogan
Sometimes staying hidden, even for a spy, is nearly impossible.
Christy Hadden, spy extraordinaire, thinks she’s created the perfect getaway in beautiful South Beach, Florida. A place where she and her handler, Jeremy, can give their forbidden romance a chance - in secret.
But when they hear cries of alarm in an alley nearby, they can’t resist the pull to help, even if it exposes them. And when Christy becomes a person of interest in a murder committed in that same alley, they must hunt down the real killers and clear
Christy's name.
In this game of hide and seek, it seems their secret is sure to be found out. Christy may have to choose between the love of her life and her life's purpose - and the stakes are higher than she ever bargained for.
Life’s a Beach by Jo Noelle
Jenna Brennan doesn’t believe in love. She doesn’t believe in marriage, and she’s learned to only count on herself. At her Uncle Walter’s insistence, and a little emotional blackmail, she returns to Misty Harbor Cottages to help him for one last summer in a place that's really the only home she’s ever known.
Cole Zamora has worked at Misty Harbor for more than half of his twenty-three years, and imagined someday owning the place. He met Jenna when they were ten-years-old, and his young heart fell hard for her, relishing every summer she came back. That is, until two years ago, when she broke his heart and never returned.
Uncle Walter proposes a challenge between the two, with the winner becoming the new owner of Misty Harbor. Now, there’s a real chance Cole could lose his heart and his home. Jenna isn’t sure which worries her more—a summer of rivalry or romance?
The Upgrade by Candice Toone
Moving on after college can be tough. Especially when former sorority president and dance team captain, Amanda Ford, takes a job at her alma mater. Her big plans to help host a study abroad tour to Peru and to launch a dance fitness program back on campus nearly come undone when she meets Spencer Elliott, an adorable undergrad who’d love to date the girl she used to be. She gives in to a final hurrah date, but regrets that choice when Spencer shows up at the study abroad orientation. Customs regulations, professional insecurities and social unrest combine to challenge Amanda’s developing professional prowess, often leaving her pitifully vulnerable to the unfortunate combination of an emerging sense of self, a handsome near-stranger, and a beautiful Peruvian beach.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver
When Anna meets much-younger-looking Derek while on vacation at the beach-it’s not exactly love at first sight. How could a handsome surfer be interested in a divorcee like her? When she finds their age difference is nominal and that she and Derek share a love for all things Star Trek, she hopes love might blossom. But, long-distance relationships are tough. And when a waitress mistakes her for Derek’s mom, she starts to doubt the budding romance. Can a California surf-connoisseur and an older woman who sucks at all things water-sports find enough common ground to make a relationship work?
379 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2016
5 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
Elana Johnson
178 books2,084 followers3-time USA Today bestselling author Elana Johnson writes adult contemporary beach romance. She is the author of over 130 books across two names, and there's nothing better than sun, sand, and swoon-worthy kisses! Unless it's a sweet-and-sexy cowboy - read those under her pen name of Liz Isaacson. Or an emotional, heartfelt women's fiction novel - read those under her pen name of Jessie Newton.
Learn more at:
www.elanajohnson.com
www.lizisaacson.com
www.authorjessienewton.com
Learn more at:
www.elanajohnson.com
www.lizisaacson.com
www.authorjessienewton.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 13, 2016
(4.5 Stars) I love sweet and clean anthologies and I'm a total sucker for a beach. Since I can't get to a beach anytime soon, I enjoyed it vicariously through each of these unique stories. I also discovered a couple of new-to-me authors through this set.
Each story has the common thread of a beach--and they are quite the variety of beaches. From the Pacific Northwest, to California, to Louisiana, to Peru, to Florida, I thoroughly enjoyed each setting and getting a feel for a new area. I thought the descriptions of the people and places were fantastic! The romances varied as much as the beaches. The reader gets to experience mistaken identities, forbidden love, childhood love, teacher/student love (totally appropriate), as well as an older love with a big age difference.
Each author does a great job of weaving together a satisfying story with each novella, bringing the characters to life and engaging the reader. Since they are novellas, the pacing is quick, yet some depth still shines through.
I was thrilled to read a Christy novella (Cindy M. Hogan), as I've followed this series and have rooted for her from the start. That one is full of adventure, suspense, and romance and because I've been invested in the story and characters for awhile, was probably one of my favorites, although they are all great!
This is a great summer treat for those who enjoy good, clean romances.
Content: mild romance; some mild innuendo in a couple of them; mild violence in Secrets in the Sand. Clean!
*I received a copy through eBooks for Review in exchange for an honest review*
Each story has the common thread of a beach--and they are quite the variety of beaches. From the Pacific Northwest, to California, to Louisiana, to Peru, to Florida, I thoroughly enjoyed each setting and getting a feel for a new area. I thought the descriptions of the people and places were fantastic! The romances varied as much as the beaches. The reader gets to experience mistaken identities, forbidden love, childhood love, teacher/student love (totally appropriate), as well as an older love with a big age difference.
Each author does a great job of weaving together a satisfying story with each novella, bringing the characters to life and engaging the reader. Since they are novellas, the pacing is quick, yet some depth still shines through.
I was thrilled to read a Christy novella (Cindy M. Hogan), as I've followed this series and have rooted for her from the start. That one is full of adventure, suspense, and romance and because I've been invested in the story and characters for awhile, was probably one of my favorites, although they are all great!
This is a great summer treat for those who enjoy good, clean romances.
Content: mild romance; some mild innuendo in a couple of them; mild violence in Secrets in the Sand. Clean!
*I received a copy through eBooks for Review in exchange for an honest review*
May 31, 2016
Sand & Kisses review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book is a compilation of five beautiful stories.
Christy and Jeremy and their dangerous but still very romantic adventure; Sabrina and Carter, trying to find the way to find love, without her knowing he was her business competition.
Jenna and Cole find themselves immersed in a race organized by uncle Walter, to finally realize the winning wasn't the real prize, but to find some other excruciatingly important realization.
Amanda, a beauty face since forever, decides to put her energy in her job after graduating. She meets a possible match in the love department, but get disappointed when he reveals him as a young student in the trip to Peru she's going as a chaperone.
Ana and Derek find themselves and suddenly they let the attraction between them play a part. They try to find the way to remain afloat, but age and distance decided to insert a particular turn in their story.
I loved all the stories and really hope to read more from these authors in the future.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book is a compilation of five beautiful stories.
Christy and Jeremy and their dangerous but still very romantic adventure; Sabrina and Carter, trying to find the way to find love, without her knowing he was her business competition.
Jenna and Cole find themselves immersed in a race organized by uncle Walter, to finally realize the winning wasn't the real prize, but to find some other excruciatingly important realization.
Amanda, a beauty face since forever, decides to put her energy in her job after graduating. She meets a possible match in the love department, but get disappointed when he reveals him as a young student in the trip to Peru she's going as a chaperone.
Ana and Derek find themselves and suddenly they let the attraction between them play a part. They try to find the way to remain afloat, but age and distance decided to insert a particular turn in their story.
I loved all the stories and really hope to read more from these authors in the future.
February 22, 2017
I read Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver first instead of last (fifth) and it was so 5+++++. It was my favorite of the five titles in this anthology. I hope Donea Lee Weaver writes more titles, because I will so be on the next one. Life's a Beach was my second favorite and definitely 5 stars! Will be looking for more from Jo Noelle! I finished the other three afterwards, but did struggle with finishing some of them so a star off. All 5 were new to me authors so I will try all of them again to get another impression.
Sensuality content: Clean. Kisses only.
Source: My own purchased library.
Sensuality content: Clean. Kisses only.
Source: My own purchased library.
January 19, 2017
I've been appreciating these short story anthologies more and more—especially when I can be pretty sure they're clean—it gives me a chance to sample different authors. I like that I can read one story at a time, and I don't get sucked in so much that I neglect other important parts of life.
I enjoyed each of these stories. They were well told and gave a broad range of plots.
I enjoyed each of these stories. They were well told and gave a broad range of plots.
June 6, 2016
Open For Love by Elana Johnson - 4 stars
This was a well written novella with characters I quickly became attached too. I was engaged in the story immediately and wished it was a full length novel.
Secrets In The Sand by Cindy Hogan - 4 stars
I have read another book in this series and enjoyed it so I was pleasantly surprised to discover this was part of the collection. I enjoyed the mystery and the romance between Jeremy and Christy. I liked that the novella seemed to pick up where the book left off. I would like to read more in the series.
Life's A Beach by Jo Noelle - 3 stars
The story is well written and interesting with likeable main characters. Unfortunately, I just don't like this type of romance story.
The Upgrade by Candice Toone - 3 stars
This was a cute novella. I enjoyed reading it. I liked Amanda and Spencer and found their situation amusing.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver - 4 stars
I really liked Anna and Derek. Their story was enjoyable. It didn't feel rushed or forced. It was a great read. This was the perfect choice to end with. Also, Star Trek buffs will appreciate the references.
I received an eARC free in exchange for an honest review.
This was a well written novella with characters I quickly became attached too. I was engaged in the story immediately and wished it was a full length novel.
Secrets In The Sand by Cindy Hogan - 4 stars
I have read another book in this series and enjoyed it so I was pleasantly surprised to discover this was part of the collection. I enjoyed the mystery and the romance between Jeremy and Christy. I liked that the novella seemed to pick up where the book left off. I would like to read more in the series.
Life's A Beach by Jo Noelle - 3 stars
The story is well written and interesting with likeable main characters. Unfortunately, I just don't like this type of romance story.
The Upgrade by Candice Toone - 3 stars
This was a cute novella. I enjoyed reading it. I liked Amanda and Spencer and found their situation amusing.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver - 4 stars
I really liked Anna and Derek. Their story was enjoyable. It didn't feel rushed or forced. It was a great read. This was the perfect choice to end with. Also, Star Trek buffs will appreciate the references.
I received an eARC free in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2016
This is a fun novella anthology. Perfect for the beach, backyard, or anyplace you can relax and get some sun. (OK, I read it in my house with the air conditioner on.)
This collection has five stories. I enjoyed every single one of them. I don't know if I could pick a favorite. All were written well and the stories had excellent pacing.
I knew that in the story "Secrets in the Sand" that there was a back story that I was missing. It can be read without reading the "Watched" series by Cindy M. Hogan. The series is on my tbr list. I think it was just bumped up!
Most of the stories are about young people in love, but the story "Surfboards and Star Trek" is about a 39 year old divorcee. I enjoyed the older characters. It's nice to be reminded that love and romance isn't just for the young!
This book has kissing and one story contains mild "cuss" words, some in Klingon!
This collection has five stories. I enjoyed every single one of them. I don't know if I could pick a favorite. All were written well and the stories had excellent pacing.
I knew that in the story "Secrets in the Sand" that there was a back story that I was missing. It can be read without reading the "Watched" series by Cindy M. Hogan. The series is on my tbr list. I think it was just bumped up!
Most of the stories are about young people in love, but the story "Surfboards and Star Trek" is about a 39 year old divorcee. I enjoyed the older characters. It's nice to be reminded that love and romance isn't just for the young!
This book has kissing and one story contains mild "cuss" words, some in Klingon!
June 13, 2016
Sweet and Sassy Anthology: Sand and Kisses Review.
I received a free ARC of this book is exchange for an honest review. This was the first short story anthology I had read.
Story 1
A short story about two people fighting to live their dreams, and of how life can surprise you when you least expect it. I found I was drawn to the story and was taken by the genuine characters and realistic storyline. After reading this, I definitely want to read more by this author.
Story 2
An Action/adventure short story with some romance. 2 cops witness an incident in an alley and one ends up the suspect. She has to work alongside her old and new flames to solve the mystery whilst trying to keep her relationship with her new flame a secret. I was pulled into the action with this story, but it was predictable in parts. It held surprises in others. The author is good at keeping the tension coming. This is usually not a genre I read much of, and I would have liked more romance and personal drama surrounding the characters. A fast-paced read though.
Story 3
A really fun little romance between Jenna and Cole who are reunited one summer at Jenna's uncle's beach houses. Laughed out loud in some parts. Great flow, plot and character building. Very believable although one or two errors in places. This never took away from, or adversely affected, the story or my opinion of it though- a great summer read that I liked so much I would read again.
Story 4
A story about Amanda, a university graduate who organises a trip to Peru with current students at the same university where she works.
She meets a student who is younger than her and falls in love. I really liked the cultural references, but would have liked more details of how they felt going to Peru, being there as opposed to the US, and what they did as well as more romance and intimacy between her and him. There were many characters and everything was woven together well, but I felt too much protagonism was given to the other teachers on the trip, some of whom did not have very big roles. I felt the part with where Spencer and the Dean's daughter kiss was not needed and did not add anything to the story. It would have been better as Amanda & Spencer's story- they could have decided to stay on and their relationship could have developed more.
Story 5
This story's title was one of the reasons I chose this particular ARC- any mention of Star Trek and I'm there! A summer-themed story with two characters who are hooked on the hit sci fi series sounded like an interesting plot twist-and I was not disappointed. This was a really great story about a romance between two people who did not think they would find love. I read it in a few hours and it had me hooked. I was rooting for the characters all along and the Star Trek references were spot-on and included in the story in exactly the right places. I actually think that this was my favourite of all the stories in the anthology, although it was shorter than the rest. The downside was its length- I wanted to read more about what happened next long after the story ended- I hope there will be a sequel to this, that would be great!
This collection is good if you want quick reads by different authors. All the stories have their own unique style and this is an interesting mixture of short stories. My review is also on my blog The Glitter Notebook (wordpress.com).
I received a free ARC of this book is exchange for an honest review. This was the first short story anthology I had read.
Story 1
A short story about two people fighting to live their dreams, and of how life can surprise you when you least expect it. I found I was drawn to the story and was taken by the genuine characters and realistic storyline. After reading this, I definitely want to read more by this author.
Story 2
An Action/adventure short story with some romance. 2 cops witness an incident in an alley and one ends up the suspect. She has to work alongside her old and new flames to solve the mystery whilst trying to keep her relationship with her new flame a secret. I was pulled into the action with this story, but it was predictable in parts. It held surprises in others. The author is good at keeping the tension coming. This is usually not a genre I read much of, and I would have liked more romance and personal drama surrounding the characters. A fast-paced read though.
Story 3
A really fun little romance between Jenna and Cole who are reunited one summer at Jenna's uncle's beach houses. Laughed out loud in some parts. Great flow, plot and character building. Very believable although one or two errors in places. This never took away from, or adversely affected, the story or my opinion of it though- a great summer read that I liked so much I would read again.
Story 4
A story about Amanda, a university graduate who organises a trip to Peru with current students at the same university where she works.
She meets a student who is younger than her and falls in love. I really liked the cultural references, but would have liked more details of how they felt going to Peru, being there as opposed to the US, and what they did as well as more romance and intimacy between her and him. There were many characters and everything was woven together well, but I felt too much protagonism was given to the other teachers on the trip, some of whom did not have very big roles. I felt the part with where Spencer and the Dean's daughter kiss was not needed and did not add anything to the story. It would have been better as Amanda & Spencer's story- they could have decided to stay on and their relationship could have developed more.
Story 5
This story's title was one of the reasons I chose this particular ARC- any mention of Star Trek and I'm there! A summer-themed story with two characters who are hooked on the hit sci fi series sounded like an interesting plot twist-and I was not disappointed. This was a really great story about a romance between two people who did not think they would find love. I read it in a few hours and it had me hooked. I was rooting for the characters all along and the Star Trek references were spot-on and included in the story in exactly the right places. I actually think that this was my favourite of all the stories in the anthology, although it was shorter than the rest. The downside was its length- I wanted to read more about what happened next long after the story ended- I hope there will be a sequel to this, that would be great!
This collection is good if you want quick reads by different authors. All the stories have their own unique style and this is an interesting mixture of short stories. My review is also on my blog The Glitter Notebook (wordpress.com).
June 15, 2016
I love anthologies and the biggest draw to me in this one was "Secrets in the Sand" by Cindy Hogan. I have followed Christy from the very beginning and always enjoy reading more about her! She sets up a secret romantic getaway with Jeremy and, of course, they end up getting involved in some drama. A favorite character of mine also makes an appearance in this book so I loved that as well. I will continue to read Christy books in the future and am looking forward to more!
I also enjoyed the other stories in this collection! There's a good variety of circumstances and locations. I love that these can be read quickly and, for the most part, they felt like complete stories to me. I also like that I'm able to get a sample of authors that are new to me or ones who I haven't read much of in the past. One of the biggest draws to me is that these are all clean so I can easily recommend this to others! If you're looking for a great beach/vacation read this summer, this one won't disappoint!
I received a copy of this book via eBooks for Review for an honest review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
I also enjoyed the other stories in this collection! There's a good variety of circumstances and locations. I love that these can be read quickly and, for the most part, they felt like complete stories to me. I also like that I'm able to get a sample of authors that are new to me or ones who I haven't read much of in the past. One of the biggest draws to me is that these are all clean so I can easily recommend this to others! If you're looking for a great beach/vacation read this summer, this one won't disappoint!
I received a copy of this book via eBooks for Review for an honest review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
June 3, 2016
I always love anthology collections. Having several stories from different authors keeps things interesting and new. Sometimes I wish the stories were longer- but it is nice to have shorter stories that you can finish up when you just have a short time to read.
A beach setting for books is love for me! I love the beach and I'm always longing to be there. Since I can't get there easily in my real life, escaping there with a book is the next best thing! :)
I really enjoyed all these books. Each one had their own style and flavor. They were fun to read and I was engaged and happy the whole time. What more can you ask for? This book was the perfect way to kick off summer!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Content: Clean
A beach setting for books is love for me! I love the beach and I'm always longing to be there. Since I can't get there easily in my real life, escaping there with a book is the next best thing! :)
I really enjoyed all these books. Each one had their own style and flavor. They were fun to read and I was engaged and happy the whole time. What more can you ask for? This book was the perfect way to kick off summer!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Content: Clean
June 20, 2016
A really great collection!
I really liked this anthology! Each story was unique and drew me in. Many of them had some definite swoon-worthy moments. My biggest problem with some of these is that they ended- I wanted some of them to be longer novels, they were just that good.
I really liked this anthology! Each story was unique and drew me in. Many of them had some definite swoon-worthy moments. My biggest problem with some of these is that they ended- I wanted some of them to be longer novels, they were just that good.
April 5, 2016
I'm one of the authors, so a bit biased - but ALL the stories in the anthology are well-written, fun little love stories that anyone (all ages) can enjoy!
July 17, 2016
These types of books are always hard for me to rate. I really enjoyed a couple of the stories. The others were ok. A couple were a bit cheesy. All of them were clean which was nice.
October 9, 2024
Open for Love by Elana Johnson
Sabrina Arnold runs her family’s Bed & Breakfast, trying to save pennies where she can, meaning that it’s up to her to fix plumbing issues at the same time she is booking wedding packages to famous guests. However, when a new Bed & Breakfast is set to open right next door, Sabrina can’t help but snoop. Snooping always brings more trouble than it’s worth, and this trouble comes in the form of a very good looking Carter Hammond. Little does Sabrina know that Carter is her competition, and he omits the fact he’s the owner. Trying to get past deceptions, business differences, and a painful loss can their small romance bloom?
Secrets in the Sand by Cindy M. Hogan
We’ve seen Christy Hadden, young talented spy, before. She has a knack of finding trouble when she should be planning and enjoying a secret rendezvous with her handler/boyfriend. A night of romance quickly turns into a vacation of hide and seek from the police and an attempted murder turns into a real murder gone wrong, with all the evidence pointing at Christy. It quickly becomes a race of finding the real culprit and freeing an innocent kid.
Life’s a Beach by Jo Noelle
Trying to get away from love and all the horrible baggage that comes with it, Jenna Brennan tries to stay far away from Misty Harbor Cottages. Attending a faraway school and accepting internships. Finally giving in to her Uncle Walter’s requests, she finds herself sucked back to the Cottages and finds herself accepting a challenge against her longtime friend, and the man she loves: Cole Zamora. Competing for the chance to own the cottages while trying to fight her growing love, Jenna finds that she can’t win every competition.
The Upgrade by Candice Toone
Amanda Ford has graduated from college, and taking the big step into being an adult with responsibilities is proving rather difficult. Throwing caution to the wind, Amanda follows her friend to a college football game which turns into a date with a cute very cute guy. Things get complicated when that cute fling happens to be a college student who shows up to her study abroad orientation. Trying to keep the relationship strictly professional and nip the feelings before they begin is proving more and more difficult with the time the two are thrown together.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver
Anna is enjoying a last get away with her daughter, before she heads off to college, and as a single mom they both don’t mind enjoying a little eye candy on their vacation. Things seem to go well when the two meet Derek, and Anna finds herself falling madly in love. However, their age difference raises several concerns and she runs for the hills. Can Derek prove to Anna that their love is real and that they are good for each other?
This has been another fun anthology to read. It wasn’t my favorite anthology, but they stories were engaging and kept a steady pace. I happened to enjoy Surfboards and Star Trek the best, a little quirky romance that kept the characters real.
I received a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sabrina Arnold runs her family’s Bed & Breakfast, trying to save pennies where she can, meaning that it’s up to her to fix plumbing issues at the same time she is booking wedding packages to famous guests. However, when a new Bed & Breakfast is set to open right next door, Sabrina can’t help but snoop. Snooping always brings more trouble than it’s worth, and this trouble comes in the form of a very good looking Carter Hammond. Little does Sabrina know that Carter is her competition, and he omits the fact he’s the owner. Trying to get past deceptions, business differences, and a painful loss can their small romance bloom?
Secrets in the Sand by Cindy M. Hogan
We’ve seen Christy Hadden, young talented spy, before. She has a knack of finding trouble when she should be planning and enjoying a secret rendezvous with her handler/boyfriend. A night of romance quickly turns into a vacation of hide and seek from the police and an attempted murder turns into a real murder gone wrong, with all the evidence pointing at Christy. It quickly becomes a race of finding the real culprit and freeing an innocent kid.
Life’s a Beach by Jo Noelle
Trying to get away from love and all the horrible baggage that comes with it, Jenna Brennan tries to stay far away from Misty Harbor Cottages. Attending a faraway school and accepting internships. Finally giving in to her Uncle Walter’s requests, she finds herself sucked back to the Cottages and finds herself accepting a challenge against her longtime friend, and the man she loves: Cole Zamora. Competing for the chance to own the cottages while trying to fight her growing love, Jenna finds that she can’t win every competition.
The Upgrade by Candice Toone
Amanda Ford has graduated from college, and taking the big step into being an adult with responsibilities is proving rather difficult. Throwing caution to the wind, Amanda follows her friend to a college football game which turns into a date with a cute very cute guy. Things get complicated when that cute fling happens to be a college student who shows up to her study abroad orientation. Trying to keep the relationship strictly professional and nip the feelings before they begin is proving more and more difficult with the time the two are thrown together.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver
Anna is enjoying a last get away with her daughter, before she heads off to college, and as a single mom they both don’t mind enjoying a little eye candy on their vacation. Things seem to go well when the two meet Derek, and Anna finds herself falling madly in love. However, their age difference raises several concerns and she runs for the hills. Can Derek prove to Anna that their love is real and that they are good for each other?
This has been another fun anthology to read. It wasn’t my favorite anthology, but they stories were engaging and kept a steady pace. I happened to enjoy Surfboards and Star Trek the best, a little quirky romance that kept the characters real.
I received a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2016
I received an advance copy of Life's a Beach for review.
I also received an ARC copy of the complete collection for review.
Romance, Clean, one novella has some mild swearing, one has some drinking/alcohol use.
Loved this story! Can't wait to read the others when the full book comes out. I have read other books by Jo Noelle, and this story was no exception to their excellent writing. Jenna's lack of faith in marriage, and lack of trust of herself and others based on her parent's lives and actions has helped her run from the one man she really loves. Scared to face him, she has avoided spending two summers in the one place she has really felt at home and loved. Her friendship with Cole has escalated to something more, and she has been scared to face it.
Jenna and Cole's relationship is told from alternating points of view. I loved their genuine and heartfelt emotions. The turmoil with facing the obstacles and hardships that happen over the course of the summer. As they each come to terms with their feelings it only remains to have the courage to face each other with the truth. Uncle Walter is a great character, the setting at the beach with the cottages was beautiful and fun as they work on their summer challenge. Their attraction to each other and their emotions were beautifully written and a pleasure to read. I can't wait to read the rest of the stories when they come out!
Version 2 of my review includes the other novella's
Open for Love was an interesting read. Getting to see the concerns and issues from both of the MC POV was interesting. Again a novel with genuine feelings and needs. Loved seeing Sabrina and Carter figure out how they were going to work things out in the end. Sabrina's kind and generous heart made for a perfect ending.
Secrets in the Sand was a continuation of Christy's story as an uncercover spy/agent along with her handler Jeremy. When she gets them sent to the same location for a 'break' for themselves to get away and connect with each other away from their intense work life, things don't go as planned. The story with Christy's desire to do good and help someone in need, even as it backfires on her, was interesting, clever and fast paced.
The Upgrade was a quick connection between Amanda and Spencer (some drinking involved). As Amanda is trying to make her place in life after college, and adjusting to being a 'nobody' after being in the center of popular college life, she meets Spencer (who portrays himself with another name). They quickly connect. Amanda presumes that one-night of connection is all there will be. Not to be! She is a Chaperone for a Business School service mission, and meets Spencer right before orientation is meeting. Cute story with likeable characters.'
Surfboards and Star Trek was an interesting read for me as a reader. The MC is unsure of herself. Recently divorced, and recently thinner, and meeting a younger man who intrigues and looks out for her. She thinks things are perhaps possible, but doubts herself. After an incident where she is mistaken for his mother, she makes a choice that puts things very far apart for them. What is their chance for love? Includes some mild language/swearing.
I also received an ARC copy of the complete collection for review.
Romance, Clean, one novella has some mild swearing, one has some drinking/alcohol use.
Loved this story! Can't wait to read the others when the full book comes out. I have read other books by Jo Noelle, and this story was no exception to their excellent writing. Jenna's lack of faith in marriage, and lack of trust of herself and others based on her parent's lives and actions has helped her run from the one man she really loves. Scared to face him, she has avoided spending two summers in the one place she has really felt at home and loved. Her friendship with Cole has escalated to something more, and she has been scared to face it.
Jenna and Cole's relationship is told from alternating points of view. I loved their genuine and heartfelt emotions. The turmoil with facing the obstacles and hardships that happen over the course of the summer. As they each come to terms with their feelings it only remains to have the courage to face each other with the truth. Uncle Walter is a great character, the setting at the beach with the cottages was beautiful and fun as they work on their summer challenge. Their attraction to each other and their emotions were beautifully written and a pleasure to read. I can't wait to read the rest of the stories when they come out!
Version 2 of my review includes the other novella's
Open for Love was an interesting read. Getting to see the concerns and issues from both of the MC POV was interesting. Again a novel with genuine feelings and needs. Loved seeing Sabrina and Carter figure out how they were going to work things out in the end. Sabrina's kind and generous heart made for a perfect ending.
Secrets in the Sand was a continuation of Christy's story as an uncercover spy/agent along with her handler Jeremy. When she gets them sent to the same location for a 'break' for themselves to get away and connect with each other away from their intense work life, things don't go as planned. The story with Christy's desire to do good and help someone in need, even as it backfires on her, was interesting, clever and fast paced.
The Upgrade was a quick connection between Amanda and Spencer (some drinking involved). As Amanda is trying to make her place in life after college, and adjusting to being a 'nobody' after being in the center of popular college life, she meets Spencer (who portrays himself with another name). They quickly connect. Amanda presumes that one-night of connection is all there will be. Not to be! She is a Chaperone for a Business School service mission, and meets Spencer right before orientation is meeting. Cute story with likeable characters.'
Surfboards and Star Trek was an interesting read for me as a reader. The MC is unsure of herself. Recently divorced, and recently thinner, and meeting a younger man who intrigues and looks out for her. She thinks things are perhaps possible, but doubts herself. After an incident where she is mistaken for his mother, she makes a choice that puts things very far apart for them. What is their chance for love? Includes some mild language/swearing.
June 14, 2016
Open for Love by Elana Johnson
Sabrina Arnold runs her family’s Bed & Breakfast, trying to save pennies where she can, meaning that it’s up to her to fix plumbing issues at the same time she is booking wedding packages to famous guests. However, when a new Bed & Breakfast is set to open right next door, Sabrina can’t help but snoop. Snooping always brings more trouble than it’s worth, and this trouble comes in the form of a very good looking Carter Hammond. Little does Sabrina know that Carter is her competition, and he omits the fact he’s the owner. Trying to get past deceptions, business differences, and a painful loss can their small romance bloom?
Secrets in the Sand by Cindy M. Hogan
We’ve seen Christy Hadden, young talented spy, before. She has a knack of finding trouble when she should be planning and enjoying a secret rendezvous with her handler/boyfriend. A night of romance quickly turns into a vacation of hide and seek from the police and an attempted murder turns into a real murder gone wrong, with all the evidence pointing at Christy. It quickly becomes a race of finding the real culprit and freeing an innocent kid.
Life’s a Beach by Jo Noelle
Trying to get away from love and all the horrible baggage that comes with it, Jenna Brennan tries to stay far away from Misty Harbor Cottages. Attending a faraway school and accepting internships. Finally giving in to her Uncle Walter’s requests, she finds herself sucked back to the Cottages and finds herself accepting a challenge against her longtime friend, and the man she loves: Cole Zamora. Competing for the chance to own the cottages while trying to fight her growing love, Jenna finds that she can’t win every competition.
The Upgrade by Candice Toone
Amanda Ford has graduated from college, and taking the big step into being an adult with responsibilities is proving rather difficult. Throwing caution to the wind, Amanda follows her friend to a college football game which turns into a date with a cute very cute guy. Things get complicated when that cute fling happens to be a college student who shows up to her study abroad orientation. Trying to keep the relationship strictly professional and nip the feelings before they begin is proving more and more difficult with the time the two are thrown together.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver
Anna is enjoying a last get away with her daughter, before she heads off to college, and as a single mom they both don’t mind enjoying a little eye candy on their vacation. Things seem to go well when the two meet Derek, and Anna finds herself falling madly in love. However, their age difference raises several concerns and she runs for the hills. Can Derek prove to Anna that their love is real and that they are good for each other?
This has been another fun anthology to read. It wasn’t my favorite anthology, but they stories were engaging and kept a steady pace. I happened to enjoy Surfboards and Star Trek the best, a little quirky romance that kept the characters real.
I received a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sabrina Arnold runs her family’s Bed & Breakfast, trying to save pennies where she can, meaning that it’s up to her to fix plumbing issues at the same time she is booking wedding packages to famous guests. However, when a new Bed & Breakfast is set to open right next door, Sabrina can’t help but snoop. Snooping always brings more trouble than it’s worth, and this trouble comes in the form of a very good looking Carter Hammond. Little does Sabrina know that Carter is her competition, and he omits the fact he’s the owner. Trying to get past deceptions, business differences, and a painful loss can their small romance bloom?
Secrets in the Sand by Cindy M. Hogan
We’ve seen Christy Hadden, young talented spy, before. She has a knack of finding trouble when she should be planning and enjoying a secret rendezvous with her handler/boyfriend. A night of romance quickly turns into a vacation of hide and seek from the police and an attempted murder turns into a real murder gone wrong, with all the evidence pointing at Christy. It quickly becomes a race of finding the real culprit and freeing an innocent kid.
Life’s a Beach by Jo Noelle
Trying to get away from love and all the horrible baggage that comes with it, Jenna Brennan tries to stay far away from Misty Harbor Cottages. Attending a faraway school and accepting internships. Finally giving in to her Uncle Walter’s requests, she finds herself sucked back to the Cottages and finds herself accepting a challenge against her longtime friend, and the man she loves: Cole Zamora. Competing for the chance to own the cottages while trying to fight her growing love, Jenna finds that she can’t win every competition.
The Upgrade by Candice Toone
Amanda Ford has graduated from college, and taking the big step into being an adult with responsibilities is proving rather difficult. Throwing caution to the wind, Amanda follows her friend to a college football game which turns into a date with a cute very cute guy. Things get complicated when that cute fling happens to be a college student who shows up to her study abroad orientation. Trying to keep the relationship strictly professional and nip the feelings before they begin is proving more and more difficult with the time the two are thrown together.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver
Anna is enjoying a last get away with her daughter, before she heads off to college, and as a single mom they both don’t mind enjoying a little eye candy on their vacation. Things seem to go well when the two meet Derek, and Anna finds herself falling madly in love. However, their age difference raises several concerns and she runs for the hills. Can Derek prove to Anna that their love is real and that they are good for each other?
This has been another fun anthology to read. It wasn’t my favorite anthology, but they stories were engaging and kept a steady pace. I happened to enjoy Surfboards and Star Trek the best, a little quirky romance that kept the characters real.
I received a free ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2016
Five fun, sweet romances. I loved each one for different reasons.
"Open for Love" by Elana Johnson
Set in New Orleans, this one took me back to a magical visit I made a few years again. You could call this the battle of the B&Bs. Sabrina Arnold, who loves running her family's Bed & Breakfast, meets tall, dark, and handsome Carter Hammond who's working for the new B&B nearby. Not everyone is being honest.
"Secrets in the Sand" by Cindy M. Hogan
This is a Christy Hadden story of the Watched series. It's fun to see her and Jeremy (secretly in love) trying to get some nonspy time together. Things get complicated, of course. Hogan keeps the action and suspense going in this one, as they work to solve a mystery and clear Christy's name--without getting caught by their bosses.
"Life’s a Beach" by Jo Noelle
Jo Noelle always brings a fun sense of humor to her characters. In this story Jenna Brennan doesn’t believe in love and her best friend Cole Zamora does. More so, he believes in her. Under the lure of a challenge set up by Jenna's Uncle Walter (love him!), Jenna and Cole come together again for the first time in two years--pitted against each other to become the new owner of Misty Harbor (summer cottages). Now, there’s a real chance Cole could lose his heart and his home. Jenna isn’t sure which worries her more—a summer of rivalry or romance.
"The Upgrade" by Candice Toone
Amanda "Mandy" Ford was her sorority president and dance team captain when she was in college. A face recognized everywhere. Now she's graduated and working for her alma mater--and working to be seen as a grown up with credibility in a study abroad program where she'll be a chaperone. She meets Spencer Elliot at a final hurrah date with a friend, but regrets that choice when Spencer shows up at the study abroad orientation. Sparks fly in beautiful Peru as Amanda tries to ignore the growing connection between them while staying aloof as a chaperone. This was one of those fun stories where I wanted to bop the two endearing love interests on the head while rooting for them to work it out.
"Surfboards and Star Trek" by Donea Lee Weaver
Weaver (no relation) has a wonderful sense of humor, and had me laughing frequently. Anna is a little older than Derek, which is made tougher because he looks younger still--making Anna feel like a cougar. But they hit it off in spite of how he loves surfing and Anna is scared to death by water. They both embrace their Star Trek nerdiness (something I LOVED being a Trekker myself), and find they have so many other things in common. Then a waitress mistakes Anna for Derek’s mom. It throws her into an emotional spin and threatens their budding romance. Very satisfying conclusion though.
I receive a copy in exchange for an honest review.
"Open for Love" by Elana Johnson
Set in New Orleans, this one took me back to a magical visit I made a few years again. You could call this the battle of the B&Bs. Sabrina Arnold, who loves running her family's Bed & Breakfast, meets tall, dark, and handsome Carter Hammond who's working for the new B&B nearby. Not everyone is being honest.
"Secrets in the Sand" by Cindy M. Hogan
This is a Christy Hadden story of the Watched series. It's fun to see her and Jeremy (secretly in love) trying to get some nonspy time together. Things get complicated, of course. Hogan keeps the action and suspense going in this one, as they work to solve a mystery and clear Christy's name--without getting caught by their bosses.
"Life’s a Beach" by Jo Noelle
Jo Noelle always brings a fun sense of humor to her characters. In this story Jenna Brennan doesn’t believe in love and her best friend Cole Zamora does. More so, he believes in her. Under the lure of a challenge set up by Jenna's Uncle Walter (love him!), Jenna and Cole come together again for the first time in two years--pitted against each other to become the new owner of Misty Harbor (summer cottages). Now, there’s a real chance Cole could lose his heart and his home. Jenna isn’t sure which worries her more—a summer of rivalry or romance.
"The Upgrade" by Candice Toone
Amanda "Mandy" Ford was her sorority president and dance team captain when she was in college. A face recognized everywhere. Now she's graduated and working for her alma mater--and working to be seen as a grown up with credibility in a study abroad program where she'll be a chaperone. She meets Spencer Elliot at a final hurrah date with a friend, but regrets that choice when Spencer shows up at the study abroad orientation. Sparks fly in beautiful Peru as Amanda tries to ignore the growing connection between them while staying aloof as a chaperone. This was one of those fun stories where I wanted to bop the two endearing love interests on the head while rooting for them to work it out.
"Surfboards and Star Trek" by Donea Lee Weaver
Weaver (no relation) has a wonderful sense of humor, and had me laughing frequently. Anna is a little older than Derek, which is made tougher because he looks younger still--making Anna feel like a cougar. But they hit it off in spite of how he loves surfing and Anna is scared to death by water. They both embrace their Star Trek nerdiness (something I LOVED being a Trekker myself), and find they have so many other things in common. Then a waitress mistakes Anna for Derek’s mom. It throws her into an emotional spin and threatens their budding romance. Very satisfying conclusion though.
I receive a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2016
Sabrina Arnold is so curious about the new B & B going in next door on the beach in New Orleans that she sneaks through a service entrance while the construction crew should be out on their lunch hour but runs into Carter Hammond, owner of the B & B. He introduces himself as Jason Carter, the attorney for the new owner and “Bri” agrees to become his tour guide, showing him around New Orleans, helping him find his mothers’ grave. In return, Carter accompanies Bri to a black tie Gala fund raiser to ward off an unwanted pursuer where a photographer asks for a picture of them kissing. Sparks fly but can chemistry overcome deceit?
Christy is a spy. She has fallen for her handler, Jeremy. A relationship between coworkers is strictly forbidden but Christy plans a secret get away for the two of them—off company radar. Things are going great until they overhear a skirmish in an alley near their resort. When Christy jumps in to help, everything goes wrong.
Jenna loves Misty Harbor; it feels like home. She works there cleaning cabins during the summers for her Uncle Walter. Cole has been her best friend since she was ten years old. Spending summers with him, with both of them working for Uncle Walter has been great. But two summers ago, Cole told Jenna he loved her. Last summer, she took an internship to avoid Cole. Now, Uncle Walter has begged her to return. When she arrives, Uncle Walter sits Cole and Jenna down and tells them that he is retiring at the end of the summer. He is holding a contest. Each will receive $20,000 to remodel one of the cabins. At the end of July, he will choose which cabin is remodeled the best and the winner will be given all the cabins to own outright.
Amanda Ford was president of her sorority and cheer squad leader. Everyone loved the bubbly, vivacious “Mandie”. Once she graduates, she gets a job on the faculty of SPU. She is chosen to accompany a group of business students on a work trip to Peru. The night before she is to leave, her best friend, Jill, talks her into going to homecoming. Amanda ends up watching fireworks on a balcony with “Mike” and the two make some fireworks of their own. Amanda gets on the airplane to Peru only to find out that “Mike” is really Spencer Elliott and he is sitting in the middle seat next to her on the flight.
Anna is a 39 year old divorcee. Her daughter Lexie talks her into buying a barely there bikini for their trip to Huntington Beach CA. Once on the beach, Anna sees Derek surfing and can’t take her eyes off of him. The immediate chemistry is mutual but Anna doesn’t want to be a cougar and doesn’t have a clue how to get back into the dating scene.
These five novellas are cute but sassy and geared toward the young adult readers.
Christy is a spy. She has fallen for her handler, Jeremy. A relationship between coworkers is strictly forbidden but Christy plans a secret get away for the two of them—off company radar. Things are going great until they overhear a skirmish in an alley near their resort. When Christy jumps in to help, everything goes wrong.
Jenna loves Misty Harbor; it feels like home. She works there cleaning cabins during the summers for her Uncle Walter. Cole has been her best friend since she was ten years old. Spending summers with him, with both of them working for Uncle Walter has been great. But two summers ago, Cole told Jenna he loved her. Last summer, she took an internship to avoid Cole. Now, Uncle Walter has begged her to return. When she arrives, Uncle Walter sits Cole and Jenna down and tells them that he is retiring at the end of the summer. He is holding a contest. Each will receive $20,000 to remodel one of the cabins. At the end of July, he will choose which cabin is remodeled the best and the winner will be given all the cabins to own outright.
Amanda Ford was president of her sorority and cheer squad leader. Everyone loved the bubbly, vivacious “Mandie”. Once she graduates, she gets a job on the faculty of SPU. She is chosen to accompany a group of business students on a work trip to Peru. The night before she is to leave, her best friend, Jill, talks her into going to homecoming. Amanda ends up watching fireworks on a balcony with “Mike” and the two make some fireworks of their own. Amanda gets on the airplane to Peru only to find out that “Mike” is really Spencer Elliott and he is sitting in the middle seat next to her on the flight.
Anna is a 39 year old divorcee. Her daughter Lexie talks her into buying a barely there bikini for their trip to Huntington Beach CA. Once on the beach, Anna sees Derek surfing and can’t take her eyes off of him. The immediate chemistry is mutual but Anna doesn’t want to be a cougar and doesn’t have a clue how to get back into the dating scene.
These five novellas are cute but sassy and geared toward the young adult readers.
May 19, 2016
Note: I was given a complimentary copy for an honest review.
Typically, I agree to read these collections because it's a great way to get a sampling of multiple authors along a common theme. Sadly, this collection missed the mark for me. I wanted to enjoy it more than I did, but I found myself either skipping pages or forcing myself to keep reading. There are a few bright spots, but overall it came across as all very average for me.
Book 1: Open For Love, Elana Johnson
This was my favorite, although I thought the heroine's reaction to the male lead's "secret" to be a bit over the top. Otherwise, it held my attention.
13 chapters
4 stars.
Book 2, Secrets in the Sand, Cindy M. Hogan
This was my least favorite of the collection. It was more murder mystery than romance with a brief love triangle thrown in for good measure. The point of view was strictly from the female lead. I ended up skipping a lot of pages to get through this and was still disappointed with the ending. It seemed rather scattered. I didn't feel like there was any real closure.
11 chapters
2 stars.
Book 3, Life's a Beach, Jo Noelle
This is a 2nd chance romance and everything seems to be a competition between the hero / heroine. She seems insecure and determined to reject him. Yet, he persists and continues to pursue her.
13 chapters,
3 stars
Book 4, The Upgrade, Candice Toone
My complaint with this story is that it was too unrealistic for me. The reason for romance seems weak and way too quick. Amanda is recently graduated and working for the University. One of her jobs is helping plan a business college trip to Peru. Shortly before the trip, she goes out on a last hoorah to the football game with her friend and meets a boy, who's still a student. She later discovers that he gave her a false name and is on the trip.
In addition to the super fast romance there's a fair amount of implied sexual content. I also found the heroine rather insecure and ditzy. I skipped pages through this.
21 chapters
Rating - 2 stars
Book 5, Surfboards and Star Trek, Donea Lee Weaver
Anna is recently divorced and on vacation with her 18 year old daughter. They are visiting the beach in California where they meet a local surfing celebrity, Derek. Even though he's younger than her, he still pursues her.
The romance is super fast and I didn't find it very believable - especially the ending. The heroine was also very insecure. I did skip some pages.
15 chapters
3 stars.
Overall rating - 3 stars.
Typically, I agree to read these collections because it's a great way to get a sampling of multiple authors along a common theme. Sadly, this collection missed the mark for me. I wanted to enjoy it more than I did, but I found myself either skipping pages or forcing myself to keep reading. There are a few bright spots, but overall it came across as all very average for me.
Book 1: Open For Love, Elana Johnson
This was my favorite, although I thought the heroine's reaction to the male lead's "secret" to be a bit over the top. Otherwise, it held my attention.
13 chapters
4 stars.
Book 2, Secrets in the Sand, Cindy M. Hogan
This was my least favorite of the collection. It was more murder mystery than romance with a brief love triangle thrown in for good measure. The point of view was strictly from the female lead. I ended up skipping a lot of pages to get through this and was still disappointed with the ending. It seemed rather scattered. I didn't feel like there was any real closure.
11 chapters
2 stars.
Book 3, Life's a Beach, Jo Noelle
This is a 2nd chance romance and everything seems to be a competition between the hero / heroine. She seems insecure and determined to reject him. Yet, he persists and continues to pursue her.
13 chapters,
3 stars
Book 4, The Upgrade, Candice Toone
My complaint with this story is that it was too unrealistic for me. The reason for romance seems weak and way too quick. Amanda is recently graduated and working for the University. One of her jobs is helping plan a business college trip to Peru. Shortly before the trip, she goes out on a last hoorah to the football game with her friend and meets a boy, who's still a student. She later discovers that he gave her a false name and is on the trip.
In addition to the super fast romance there's a fair amount of implied sexual content. I also found the heroine rather insecure and ditzy. I skipped pages through this.
21 chapters
Rating - 2 stars
Book 5, Surfboards and Star Trek, Donea Lee Weaver
Anna is recently divorced and on vacation with her 18 year old daughter. They are visiting the beach in California where they meet a local surfing celebrity, Derek. Even though he's younger than her, he still pursues her.
The romance is super fast and I didn't find it very believable - especially the ending. The heroine was also very insecure. I did skip some pages.
15 chapters
3 stars.
Overall rating - 3 stars.
April 28, 2016
This book sigh worthy. Exactly what I was hoping for.
Open for Love- My absolute favorite of the book. This was a new author for me. Love her writing style. This one made me laugh out loud a few times. Sabrina was someone I would be friends with. She was selfless and kind. I could see myself getting into the same situations and talking like she does. Predictable, but so much fun. I will read other books by this author.
Secrets in the Sand- So happy to get more of Christy and Jeremy's story. Didn't know it was about them. A pleasant surprise. The writing seems to be for a teen audience, but I love Christy and Jeremy. Love Ace and the gang. Interesting that a previous love interest was reintroduced. Danger, mystery, and romance. This was a fun ride.
Life's a Beach- My other favorite of the book. I loved the relationships and friendships. Great setting. Cole was the perfect friend. He was understanding, extremely patient, hard working, and knew Jenna so well. He knew to push things or back way off. Their friendly competitions made for a fun story. Humorous. So cute. I smiled throughout. Lots of growth and overcoming fears in the characters. I will read more by this author.
The Upgrade- Mild language throughout. Liked the international setting. Like how the characters met and then were put together again. The dialogue at the beginning of the story between Amanda and her best friend, Jill, was immature. So I was surprised later in the story when Jill was giving wise advice to Amanda. She didn't seem like the same character from earlier. The licorice bit was a little cheesy. The end of the story felt rushed and slightly unbelievable because the mc's hadn't spoken for weeks and suddenly Spencer is practically proposing the minute they are off the plane. Seems there were some things that needed to be resolved before they were back in each others arms.
Surfboards and Star Trek- My least favorite story in the anthology. I'm not exactly sure what I didn't like about the story, but it just didn't do it for me. You don't have to be a Star Trek fan to enjoy the story, but it would help.
These were clean stories; a fun break that you can read one at a time or enjoy as a whole for a few hours of escape. Appropriate for teens on up. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Open for Love- My absolute favorite of the book. This was a new author for me. Love her writing style. This one made me laugh out loud a few times. Sabrina was someone I would be friends with. She was selfless and kind. I could see myself getting into the same situations and talking like she does. Predictable, but so much fun. I will read other books by this author.
Secrets in the Sand- So happy to get more of Christy and Jeremy's story. Didn't know it was about them. A pleasant surprise. The writing seems to be for a teen audience, but I love Christy and Jeremy. Love Ace and the gang. Interesting that a previous love interest was reintroduced. Danger, mystery, and romance. This was a fun ride.
Life's a Beach- My other favorite of the book. I loved the relationships and friendships. Great setting. Cole was the perfect friend. He was understanding, extremely patient, hard working, and knew Jenna so well. He knew to push things or back way off. Their friendly competitions made for a fun story. Humorous. So cute. I smiled throughout. Lots of growth and overcoming fears in the characters. I will read more by this author.
The Upgrade- Mild language throughout. Liked the international setting. Like how the characters met and then were put together again. The dialogue at the beginning of the story between Amanda and her best friend, Jill, was immature. So I was surprised later in the story when Jill was giving wise advice to Amanda. She didn't seem like the same character from earlier. The licorice bit was a little cheesy. The end of the story felt rushed and slightly unbelievable because the mc's hadn't spoken for weeks and suddenly Spencer is practically proposing the minute they are off the plane. Seems there were some things that needed to be resolved before they were back in each others arms.
Surfboards and Star Trek- My least favorite story in the anthology. I'm not exactly sure what I didn't like about the story, but it just didn't do it for me. You don't have to be a Star Trek fan to enjoy the story, but it would help.
These were clean stories; a fun break that you can read one at a time or enjoy as a whole for a few hours of escape. Appropriate for teens on up. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2016
I liked these stories but some felt like they were missing something to make them more complete.
Open for love-This about Sabrina Arnold who runs her grandmothers Bed and Breakfast. Carter is opening a similar business right next door. When the two meet Carter gives Sabrina a wrong name and tells her he is a lawyer. The two start to fall in love and Carter worries what Sabrina will do when she finds out he wasn't completely honest. I had a problem with him not being honest and with how the problem was solved without an explanation.
Secrets in the Sand. This was the best one in the collection. Christy and Jeremy are both spies. They are not supposed to have a relationship with each other but the two have snuck away for a few days to spend time together. When Christy gets mixed up in a murder investigation the two risk being exposed and could lose their jobs. This is fast paced romantic adventure.
Life's a Beach. This one was another of my favorites. Jenna and Cole have been each other best friend and playmate every summer growing up. Now the friendship has turned into more but Jenna is afraid because she thinks she might be like her mother who is one her 7th marriage. Jenna and Cole compete to see who will be the new owner of Misty Harbor the place where the two spent their summers. Will the competition bring them together or tear them apart?
The Upgrade. This book was a bit confusing to me. Amanda has just graduated and will be working for the school she graduated from. She wants to be taken serious and not be seen as the fun loving college student she once was. Amanda mets Spencer at a football game and the two seem to hit it off. When Spencer ends up being a member of the study abroad group Amanda is chaperoning, Amanda must treat him like anyone else on the trip. Then an old friend joins the group who would like to be more than Spencer's friend. What will happen to the romance between Spencer and Amanda? The ending of this story was confusing and seemed rushed.
Surfboards and Star Trek. I had a problem with this story. Anna seem to act so much older than Derek that the 6 year age difference seemed like a big deal. I also felt like a big portion of Derek's history with his deceased wife was missing and left a big hole in the story. I also felt like the ending came with little explanation of how it came to be.
Open for love-This about Sabrina Arnold who runs her grandmothers Bed and Breakfast. Carter is opening a similar business right next door. When the two meet Carter gives Sabrina a wrong name and tells her he is a lawyer. The two start to fall in love and Carter worries what Sabrina will do when she finds out he wasn't completely honest. I had a problem with him not being honest and with how the problem was solved without an explanation.
Secrets in the Sand. This was the best one in the collection. Christy and Jeremy are both spies. They are not supposed to have a relationship with each other but the two have snuck away for a few days to spend time together. When Christy gets mixed up in a murder investigation the two risk being exposed and could lose their jobs. This is fast paced romantic adventure.
Life's a Beach. This one was another of my favorites. Jenna and Cole have been each other best friend and playmate every summer growing up. Now the friendship has turned into more but Jenna is afraid because she thinks she might be like her mother who is one her 7th marriage. Jenna and Cole compete to see who will be the new owner of Misty Harbor the place where the two spent their summers. Will the competition bring them together or tear them apart?
The Upgrade. This book was a bit confusing to me. Amanda has just graduated and will be working for the school she graduated from. She wants to be taken serious and not be seen as the fun loving college student she once was. Amanda mets Spencer at a football game and the two seem to hit it off. When Spencer ends up being a member of the study abroad group Amanda is chaperoning, Amanda must treat him like anyone else on the trip. Then an old friend joins the group who would like to be more than Spencer's friend. What will happen to the romance between Spencer and Amanda? The ending of this story was confusing and seemed rushed.
Surfboards and Star Trek. I had a problem with this story. Anna seem to act so much older than Derek that the 6 year age difference seemed like a big deal. I also felt like a big portion of Derek's history with his deceased wife was missing and left a big hole in the story. I also felt like the ending came with little explanation of how it came to be.
June 6, 2016
An easy and fun set of 5 novellas that all take place near the beach. I haven't read books by most of these authors, but would probably read more by them in the future.
Open for Love, by Elana Johnson, reminded me of you've got mail. Sabrina runs a bed and breakfast in New Orleans. When a new swanky B&B gets ready to open down the street she is caught trespassing. Carter catches Bri but doesn't tell her he is the owner. As the two spend more time together, the lie becomes harder to hide. A cute and easy read.
Secrets in the Sand, by Cindy M. Hogan, would be a better read if you had read other books in the series. It is about two spies who are trying to have a private get away and get embroiled in a murder investigation. Although it reads fine as a stand alone, it would be better after reading their backstory.
In Life’s a Beach, by Jo Noelle, Jenna plans to spend one last summer helping her uncle run his beach front resort. She has plans for the future, but none include love or marriage. She doesn't believe in either. Cole has very different plans--but his include Jenna. A summer wager may change both their plans forever! A sweet, yet predictable novella.
The Upgrade, by Candice Toone, tells the story of Amanda who is trying to complete her transition from Mandi. No longer a college co-ed, she wants to be respected by her peers. Unfortunately, trying to juggle her new "adult life" with her reputation chaperoning a bunch of college seniors is more easily said than done. I didn't get why Mandi felt like her life was so bad that she had to change rather than just build on her personality, but she finally figured it out in the end. The romance was sweet and I will not look at licorice the same way!
Surfboards and Star Trek, by Donea Lee Weaver, was a cute if totally unrealistic read. Mom and daughter plan a beach get away before college starts. Anna is dealing with her divorce and the idea of being an empty nester. When hunky Derek begins spending time with them, Anna has no clue how to deal with the situation. Their mutual love for Star Trek is the only thing they seem to have in common. A cute and easy read. Perfect summer read.
Open for Love, by Elana Johnson, reminded me of you've got mail. Sabrina runs a bed and breakfast in New Orleans. When a new swanky B&B gets ready to open down the street she is caught trespassing. Carter catches Bri but doesn't tell her he is the owner. As the two spend more time together, the lie becomes harder to hide. A cute and easy read.
Secrets in the Sand, by Cindy M. Hogan, would be a better read if you had read other books in the series. It is about two spies who are trying to have a private get away and get embroiled in a murder investigation. Although it reads fine as a stand alone, it would be better after reading their backstory.
In Life’s a Beach, by Jo Noelle, Jenna plans to spend one last summer helping her uncle run his beach front resort. She has plans for the future, but none include love or marriage. She doesn't believe in either. Cole has very different plans--but his include Jenna. A summer wager may change both their plans forever! A sweet, yet predictable novella.
The Upgrade, by Candice Toone, tells the story of Amanda who is trying to complete her transition from Mandi. No longer a college co-ed, she wants to be respected by her peers. Unfortunately, trying to juggle her new "adult life" with her reputation chaperoning a bunch of college seniors is more easily said than done. I didn't get why Mandi felt like her life was so bad that she had to change rather than just build on her personality, but she finally figured it out in the end. The romance was sweet and I will not look at licorice the same way!
Surfboards and Star Trek, by Donea Lee Weaver, was a cute if totally unrealistic read. Mom and daughter plan a beach get away before college starts. Anna is dealing with her divorce and the idea of being an empty nester. When hunky Derek begins spending time with them, Anna has no clue how to deal with the situation. Their mutual love for Star Trek is the only thing they seem to have in common. A cute and easy read. Perfect summer read.
June 15, 2016
This fun collection of stories takes the reader from New Orleans to Scotland, young love to Autumn romance. I enjoyed each of the different tales. I love these short sips of summertime sweetness, perfect for a relaxing evening or waiting for an appointment. Each story is complete and a quick read. In Open for Love, he has everything and she’s desperately trying to hang on to everything she has left. Rivals in business are inexplicably drawn together. Elana Johnson never fails to write a wonderful story. In Secrets in the Sand, two secret agents fight for love and a little interlude only to be thwarted on every side. This story has fun action, forbidden love and an old flame. In Life’s a Beach, one of my favorite parts of this story are the “mom-isms” such as “Never judge a man’s looks until you’ve weighed his wallet.” A little friendly competition with hearts on the line, Uncle Walter pits long-time friends against each other. Three rounds equal a highly coveted prize as romance is rekindled in Misty Harbor. “…it was like being on a first date, but with a friend you’ve known and loved forever.” This is a wonderfully fun and romantic story written with humor, forgotten memories, and sparks flew as two broken hearts mended together. In the Upgrade, Amanda has graduated from college and is looking forward to her future. After one last Friday night fling, she is ready to overcome her collegiate glory days and be taken seriously as a professional business owner. A fun trip to Peru, a handsome younger man, and a romance of a lifetime, this light and flirty story has a little for everyone. In the final story, Surfboards and Star Trek, Anna questions why a younger, sexy surfer, Derek would be interested in an older divorcee, but as they find passions in common, sparks fly. I could relate to Anna’s hesitation and thoughts that perhaps her time for romance had passed. Don’t we all sabotage our happiness in one way or another? This Autumn romance was a nice change of pace and the perfect wrap-up to this collection.
*I received an ARC for an honest review.
*I received an ARC for an honest review.
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April 28, 2016There were five good stories here. I liked all of them.
The first story, Open for Love, was sort-of a mistaken identity story. He didn't tell her who he really was and we wondered how she'd handle it when she found out. It's set in New Orleans. I thought the story was interesting, the characters were good, and the romance was sweet.
The second story, Secrets in the Sand, was of two spies who are trying to take a secret romantic holiday, but can't resist helping someone in need. It was very interesting to read and had a fast pace that kept me reading and not wanting to put it down. The suspense was great, the romance was sweet, and the twists and turns were fun. It was set in California.
The third story, Life's a Beach, was set in the Oregon coastline. It's a story of deciding if two lifelong friends should take it to the next level. It was very sweet, the characters have a lot to overcome--sad parenting had led to a lack of belief in love. They're very competitive with each other and have a great friendship.
The fourth story, The Upgrade, was about a post-grad student who was a cheerleader, but is now trying to prove herself as she chaperones a group of students to the Peruvian beaches for study abroad. I liked how she met the love interest and how their romance developed. I enjoyed getting a small glimpse of Peru. Interesting story.
The last story, Surfboards and Star Trek was great. I'm a Star Trek fan, so it was fun for me to read (not that that's all they talk about). It starts on the California beaches, but ends up on totally different beaches as it goes along--I won't spoil it for you and say where. The characters are older, and still very relate-able. They have a great chemistry from the start but have to figure things out.
I'd say I enjoyed all the books and I'd recommend this set to others. It was fun to read and all the stories were very distinct, so it wasn't at all the same story over and over again.
The first story, Open for Love, was sort-of a mistaken identity story. He didn't tell her who he really was and we wondered how she'd handle it when she found out. It's set in New Orleans. I thought the story was interesting, the characters were good, and the romance was sweet.
The second story, Secrets in the Sand, was of two spies who are trying to take a secret romantic holiday, but can't resist helping someone in need. It was very interesting to read and had a fast pace that kept me reading and not wanting to put it down. The suspense was great, the romance was sweet, and the twists and turns were fun. It was set in California.
The third story, Life's a Beach, was set in the Oregon coastline. It's a story of deciding if two lifelong friends should take it to the next level. It was very sweet, the characters have a lot to overcome--sad parenting had led to a lack of belief in love. They're very competitive with each other and have a great friendship.
The fourth story, The Upgrade, was about a post-grad student who was a cheerleader, but is now trying to prove herself as she chaperones a group of students to the Peruvian beaches for study abroad. I liked how she met the love interest and how their romance developed. I enjoyed getting a small glimpse of Peru. Interesting story.
The last story, Surfboards and Star Trek was great. I'm a Star Trek fan, so it was fun for me to read (not that that's all they talk about). It starts on the California beaches, but ends up on totally different beaches as it goes along--I won't spoil it for you and say where. The characters are older, and still very relate-able. They have a great chemistry from the start but have to figure things out.
I'd say I enjoyed all the books and I'd recommend this set to others. It was fun to read and all the stories were very distinct, so it wasn't at all the same story over and over again.
April 25, 2016
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading these short stories. They were all clean with no bad language. I think that my favorite story of all of them was Life's A Beach. For some reason, their story was more captivating and maybe it's because of the constant rivalry. I really love how patient Cole is with Jenna. Being friends forever helps him to truly understand what she needs. My next favorite was Open For Love. I loved how they had an instant connection and Carter stepped in and helped Bri and how he didn't back down when she was mad at him. The Upgrade was pretty cute. I loved how Spencer found moments to be real with Amanda and I thought it was funny how they found out about each other and their motives and called it even. Secrets in the Sand was really fun too! I loved all the secrecy and how they snuck away to be together and give their relationship a chance. I enjoy spy novels and movies so it was fun to read about them trying to drop off the grid and have a little bit of normalcy. My least favorite was the last story which is called Surfboards and Star Trek. I don't particularly care for Star Trek and is probably why I didn't like it as much. I thought it was well written and I'm sure that those who like that type of thing would really love that story. I did appreciate how sweet the daughter was with the mom. I could relate to her relationship with her mom because I have a similar relationship with my mom. The scene at Pineview was probably my favorite.
I thought that they were all really well written and I would have loved to read a full length novel of the first four books. I think that they would have been really exciting and even more fun to read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading these short stories. They were all clean with no bad language. I think that my favorite story of all of them was Life's A Beach. For some reason, their story was more captivating and maybe it's because of the constant rivalry. I really love how patient Cole is with Jenna. Being friends forever helps him to truly understand what she needs. My next favorite was Open For Love. I loved how they had an instant connection and Carter stepped in and helped Bri and how he didn't back down when she was mad at him. The Upgrade was pretty cute. I loved how Spencer found moments to be real with Amanda and I thought it was funny how they found out about each other and their motives and called it even. Secrets in the Sand was really fun too! I loved all the secrecy and how they snuck away to be together and give their relationship a chance. I enjoy spy novels and movies so it was fun to read about them trying to drop off the grid and have a little bit of normalcy. My least favorite was the last story which is called Surfboards and Star Trek. I don't particularly care for Star Trek and is probably why I didn't like it as much. I thought it was well written and I'm sure that those who like that type of thing would really love that story. I did appreciate how sweet the daughter was with the mom. I could relate to her relationship with her mom because I have a similar relationship with my mom. The scene at Pineview was probably my favorite.
I thought that they were all really well written and I would have loved to read a full length novel of the first four books. I think that they would have been really exciting and even more fun to read.
June 16, 2016
Who could pass up reading an intriguing collection of five romance novellas on a lazy summer day?
Since I enjoyed reading all five romance tales in the Sand and Kisses Anthology, I decided to only provide a general book review instead of individual reviews.
Sand and Kisses Anthology is an eclectic collection of five romance novellas from authors Elana Johnson, Cindy M. Hogan, Jo Noelle, Candice N. Toone, and Donea Lee Weave. Each romance novella flows smoothly from one to the next, and has a unique mixture of romance that will appeal to everyone. Each of the authors weave an intriguing, unique, and thoroughly enjoyable short romance tale with engaging characters, a variety of themes and settings, and enough drama, humor, mystery, and suspense that will easily draw the reader into each story, keep them turning the pages, and leave them wanting more.
Sand and Kisses Anthology is the perfect collection of romance novellas to read while at the beach or pool. Each story will certainly peak your interest, and whet your appetite to read more from each of the individual authors featured in this delightful anthology collection.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the anthology collection from the authors / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by I Am A Reader.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Since I enjoyed reading all five romance tales in the Sand and Kisses Anthology, I decided to only provide a general book review instead of individual reviews.
Sand and Kisses Anthology is an eclectic collection of five romance novellas from authors Elana Johnson, Cindy M. Hogan, Jo Noelle, Candice N. Toone, and Donea Lee Weave. Each romance novella flows smoothly from one to the next, and has a unique mixture of romance that will appeal to everyone. Each of the authors weave an intriguing, unique, and thoroughly enjoyable short romance tale with engaging characters, a variety of themes and settings, and enough drama, humor, mystery, and suspense that will easily draw the reader into each story, keep them turning the pages, and leave them wanting more.
Sand and Kisses Anthology is the perfect collection of romance novellas to read while at the beach or pool. Each story will certainly peak your interest, and whet your appetite to read more from each of the individual authors featured in this delightful anthology collection.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the anthology collection from the authors / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by I Am A Reader.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
June 14, 2016
Open for Love – A name isn’t who a person is. A person is found in their soul – in their thoughts, feelings, mind, and heart. What do you do when you fall in love with someone who isn’t who you thought they were? Forgiveness is hard, but it is possible. Love will always find a way if you want it bad enough and it is important enough for you to realize that no one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes.
Secrets in the Sand – You finally have the job you have always dreamed of – would you risk it all for love? Sometimes when love is right and you find the person who completes you, love is worth any risk.
Life’s a Beach – Is it best to find love and create friendship after or become best friends who find love with each other? When love is right, it doesn’t matter how it’s found. It just matters that it is found with the right person who will cherish you for the rest of their life.
The Upgrade – Beginnings are always awkward, especially when you are instantly attracted to someone you don’t know. Do you take the risk of getting to know someone?
Surfboards and Star Trek – Age has always been an issue when it comes to love – people think you are too old or too young for each other. But honestly, if you find the right person – someone who completes you – does age really matter?
Secrets in the Sand – You finally have the job you have always dreamed of – would you risk it all for love? Sometimes when love is right and you find the person who completes you, love is worth any risk.
Life’s a Beach – Is it best to find love and create friendship after or become best friends who find love with each other? When love is right, it doesn’t matter how it’s found. It just matters that it is found with the right person who will cherish you for the rest of their life.
The Upgrade – Beginnings are always awkward, especially when you are instantly attracted to someone you don’t know. Do you take the risk of getting to know someone?
Surfboards and Star Trek – Age has always been an issue when it comes to love – people think you are too old or too young for each other. But honestly, if you find the right person – someone who completes you – does age really matter?
August 24, 2016
Open for Love by Elana Johnson
4 Stars - This was a really cute read. I did want to shake Carter a few times - Tell her already!!! But overall I enjoyed it.
Moral Note: No language, no violence, some kissing.
Secrets in the Sand by Cindy M. Hogan
Wow this one had me scrounging around trying to find more of Christy's story, found it and can't wait to read it.
Moral note: Mild violence-Talk/description of a murder, kidnapping, some passionate kisses, no language.
Life’s a Beach by Jo Noelle
5 Stars!
Loved this one!!! The banter between Cole & Jenna was so much fun. Sigh
Moral Note: Clean
The Upgrade by Candice Toone
3 stars
This was was a little choppy in my opinion. I liked the story-line, the forbidden love angle, but it seemed rushed in places and others I had to go back and re-read.
Moral Note: Some mild innuendos, passionate kisses, 1 "dang", no violence.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver
2 stars
This one had to much Star Trek, 39 yr old woman, etc references for me. I like young love. And while I did watch Star Trek the next generation, I don't understand the comic con craze.
Moral Note: Kisses, mentioned shacking up, waiting for marriage.
4 Stars - This was a really cute read. I did want to shake Carter a few times - Tell her already!!! But overall I enjoyed it.
Moral Note: No language, no violence, some kissing.
Secrets in the Sand by Cindy M. Hogan
Wow this one had me scrounging around trying to find more of Christy's story, found it and can't wait to read it.
Moral note: Mild violence-Talk/description of a murder, kidnapping, some passionate kisses, no language.
Life’s a Beach by Jo Noelle
5 Stars!
Loved this one!!! The banter between Cole & Jenna was so much fun. Sigh
Moral Note: Clean
The Upgrade by Candice Toone
3 stars
This was was a little choppy in my opinion. I liked the story-line, the forbidden love angle, but it seemed rushed in places and others I had to go back and re-read.
Moral Note: Some mild innuendos, passionate kisses, 1 "dang", no violence.
Surfboards and Star Trek by Donea Lee Weaver
2 stars
This one had to much Star Trek, 39 yr old woman, etc references for me. I like young love. And while I did watch Star Trek the next generation, I don't understand the comic con craze.
Moral Note: Kisses, mentioned shacking up, waiting for marriage.
August 22, 2016
Open for Love-
The story would have been fine if the setting location would have been researched. The author had the story take place in New Orleans, at an ocean front property Bed and Breakfast were the couple walked on the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. I lived in New Orleans and the only close beach for the Gulf of Mexico is in Mississippi. If you look at a map you can see New Orleans is not close to the ocean, but that being said I enjoyed the characters and the plot line just not the inaccuracies in the setting.
Secrets in the Sand-
Started this one and I could not make it through this story. I felt like I was missing something, but I am not a huge spy fan.
Life’s a Beach –
I enjoyed the characters and it was sweet story about fate, timing and true love. It reminded me Sweet Home Alabama movie with the ten year olds finding true love.
The Upgrade –
I could not get into this story either I just was not interested and the characters did not draw me in.
Surfboards and Star Trek –
I could not get into this story either I just was not interested and the characters did not draw me in.
The story would have been fine if the setting location would have been researched. The author had the story take place in New Orleans, at an ocean front property Bed and Breakfast were the couple walked on the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. I lived in New Orleans and the only close beach for the Gulf of Mexico is in Mississippi. If you look at a map you can see New Orleans is not close to the ocean, but that being said I enjoyed the characters and the plot line just not the inaccuracies in the setting.
Secrets in the Sand-
Started this one and I could not make it through this story. I felt like I was missing something, but I am not a huge spy fan.
Life’s a Beach –
I enjoyed the characters and it was sweet story about fate, timing and true love. It reminded me Sweet Home Alabama movie with the ten year olds finding true love.
The Upgrade –
I could not get into this story either I just was not interested and the characters did not draw me in.
Surfboards and Star Trek –
I could not get into this story either I just was not interested and the characters did not draw me in.
July 11, 2022
This is a collection of 5 sweet & clean romance novellas that are tied together by the theme of a beach. The settings were quite varied - from New Orleans to Florida to Washington state to Peru to Southern CA. And the stories were all different as well. I enjoyed them all, but a couple I liked better than the others. I think my favorites were "Open for Love" and "Life's a Beach." One story ("Secrets in the Sand") had characters and connections to a series I haven't read yet and while it was fine as a stand-alone, I felt like I was missing out a little by not being familiar with all the characters mentioned.
I had a bit of a harder time connecting with the main characters in both "The Upgrade" and "Surfboards and Star Trek," maybe because their situations are just quite different from my own experiences. But I always love these collections of sweet, shorter stories. I love being able to read a story in a sitting and I always love the happy endings!
I received a free ebook version of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I had a bit of a harder time connecting with the main characters in both "The Upgrade" and "Surfboards and Star Trek," maybe because their situations are just quite different from my own experiences. But I always love these collections of sweet, shorter stories. I love being able to read a story in a sitting and I always love the happy endings!
I received a free ebook version of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2016
I love the beach and I love anthologies so I was excited to review this one! I definitely liked some of these stories more than the others!
My Top Three:
Secrets in the Sand was my favorite - it was more intense than I was expecting! I haven't read all of the Christy spy novels, but I've read a few of them so it was fun to revisit Christy and Jeremy, and watch them try to have a secret weekend - but trouble seems to find them wherever they go!
My other favorite was Life's a Beach - I love second chance stories and I really liked Cole and Jenna and I was cheering for them the whole time!
The Upgrade was a fun one - I think I would have liked it better as a full novel because it felt like some parts weren't fleshed out enough, but I really liked Spencer and Amanda! If it were ever written as a full novel, I would definitely read it again!
Content: Clean
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
My Top Three:
Secrets in the Sand was my favorite - it was more intense than I was expecting! I haven't read all of the Christy spy novels, but I've read a few of them so it was fun to revisit Christy and Jeremy, and watch them try to have a secret weekend - but trouble seems to find them wherever they go!
My other favorite was Life's a Beach - I love second chance stories and I really liked Cole and Jenna and I was cheering for them the whole time!
The Upgrade was a fun one - I think I would have liked it better as a full novel because it felt like some parts weren't fleshed out enough, but I really liked Spencer and Amanda! If it were ever written as a full novel, I would definitely read it again!
Content: Clean
Source: Review Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
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