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Charmed in Texas #1
A Charmed Little Lie
Charmed, Texas... quaint, quirky, and when it comes to romance, there's no place quite as enchanting.
Lanie Barrett didn't mean to lie. Spinning a story of a joyous marriage to make a dying woman happy is forgivable, isn't it? Lanie thinks so, especially since her beloved Aunt Ruby would have been heartbroken to know the truth of her niece's sadly loveless, short-of-sparkling existence. Trouble is, according to the will, Ruby didn't quite buy Lanie's tale. And to inherit the only house Lanie ever really considered a home, she'll have to bring her "husband" back to Charmed for three whole months--or watch Aunt Ruby's cozy nest go to her weasel cousin, who will sell it to a condo developer.
Nick McKane is out of work, out of luck, and the spitting image of the man Lanie described. He needs money for his daughter's art school tuition, and Lanie needs a convenient spouse. It's a match made... well, not quite in heaven, but for a temporary arrangement, it couldn't be better. Except the longer Lanie and Nick spend as husband and wife, the more the connection between them begins to seem real. Maybe this modern fairy tale really could come true...
Lanie Barrett didn't mean to lie. Spinning a story of a joyous marriage to make a dying woman happy is forgivable, isn't it? Lanie thinks so, especially since her beloved Aunt Ruby would have been heartbroken to know the truth of her niece's sadly loveless, short-of-sparkling existence. Trouble is, according to the will, Ruby didn't quite buy Lanie's tale. And to inherit the only house Lanie ever really considered a home, she'll have to bring her "husband" back to Charmed for three whole months--or watch Aunt Ruby's cozy nest go to her weasel cousin, who will sell it to a condo developer.
Nick McKane is out of work, out of luck, and the spitting image of the man Lanie described. He needs money for his daughter's art school tuition, and Lanie needs a convenient spouse. It's a match made... well, not quite in heaven, but for a temporary arrangement, it couldn't be better. Except the longer Lanie and Nick spend as husband and wife, the more the connection between them begins to seem real. Maybe this modern fairy tale really could come true...
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 18, 2017
65 people are currently reading
824 people want to read
About the author
Sharla Lovelace
18 books835 followersSharla Lovelace is the Bestselling and Award Winning Author of five standalone novels, the exciting Heart of the Storm series, and the fun and sexy Charmed in Texas series, all featuring sexy small town love stories with heat and humor. Being a Texas girl through and through, she's proud to say she lives in Southeast Texas with her husband, a souped up golf cart, and two crazy mutts.
Sharla is available by Skype for book club meetings and chats, and loves connecting with her readers! See her website www.sharlalovelace.com for a complete book listing, info on upcoming events, and to sign up for her newsletter.
You can follow her as @sharlalovelace on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Sharla is available by Skype for book club meetings and chats, and loves connecting with her readers! See her website www.sharlalovelace.com for a complete book listing, info on upcoming events, and to sign up for her newsletter.
You can follow her as @sharlalovelace on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
April 19, 2017
Welcome to Charmed, Texas a picturesque town where you can find crazy townsfolk, possibly haunted houses, old flames, and new beginnings.
Sharla Lovelace pens another wonderful small town romance filled with emotion and desire, quirky characters and fun twists.
When Lanie lied to her Aunt Ruby about having the job of her dreams and a husband to match it, her intentions were good. She didn’t want her dying aunt to worry about her. But after reading her aunt’s will she finds out her good intentions have an unpredictable impact in her life and now she desperately needs to find a fake husband who’ll live with her in order to save her childhood home from falling into the hands of her greedy cousins. As Lanie has forsaken love, she’s in no danger of falling for her newfound gorgeous roommate is she?
Nick McKane needs a job to pay for his daughter’s education and he’s just desperate enough to accept a perfect stranger’s insane plan to fake a marriage for three months. But as he deftly jumps into his role of loving husband while getting to know Lanie the illusion they create is slowly turning into reality, but can he trust in them enough to believe it’s real or will he walk out on them when the time is up?
I get the impression that Sharla Lovelace has a great time writing about small towns, creating the charming places with interesting townsfolk and their wacky dynamics. I loved reading about Charmed and feeling as though I was transported there. Aside from the parochial appeal, I very much enjoyed the slow burn relationship between the perky Lanie and sexy yet closed off Nick.
It’s clear that they both have vested interests in pulling off the lie, but Nick is able to jump effortlessly into his role whereas Lanie has a more difficult time having to quit her current job, not being able to accept her actual dream job in California all while having to deal with the ridiculously attractive man who struts dripping wet in only a towel after a hard run and before heading to work at the local dinner filled with fawning females who can’t get enough of the easy going new chef.
Having the need to show everyone that they’re madly in love and happily married requires them to be out and about together, holding hands and showing other PDAs which helps to fuel the already existing smoking hot attraction, but it’s during the quiet times when they’re alone when they get to know more of each other when that attraction turns into so much more.
I loved both Nick and Lanie equally. She was so lively yet a tad broken and insecure, but not enough to that it stopped her from defending her “husband” against all the unwanted female attention he got. That was so much fun to witness. Nick on the other hand was a bit walled off having had bad luck whenever it came to love, but I just swooned over every time he got instinctively protective over Lanie, whenever he flirted with her when no one was there to watch or listen in, and every time he sexily called her “Mrs. McKane.”
There’s so much I’d love to share, so many things I highlighted from sweet, to sexy, to emotional. Needless to say I was captive with their story and wanted to know how it would all turn out. I look forward to reading the next book in this series and anything else Sharla Lovelace puts out for the sentiments she evokes and the emotive stories she composes.
A Charmed Little Lie is the kickoff book in the series Charmed in Texas by author Sharla Lovelace. It is a standalone contemporary romance with a great balance between fun, wit, steaminess, and heartfelt emotions. It is told from the heroine’s point of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2oo2gBe
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
When Lanie lied to her Aunt Ruby about having the job of her dreams and a husband to match it, her intentions were good. She didn’t want her dying aunt to worry about her. But after reading her aunt’s will she finds out her good intentions have an unpredictable impact in her life and now she desperately needs to find a fake husband who’ll live with her in order to save her childhood home from falling into the hands of her greedy cousins. As Lanie has forsaken love, she’s in no danger of falling for her newfound gorgeous roommate is she?
Nick McKane needs a job to pay for his daughter’s education and he’s just desperate enough to accept a perfect stranger’s insane plan to fake a marriage for three months. But as he deftly jumps into his role of loving husband while getting to know Lanie the illusion they create is slowly turning into reality, but can he trust in them enough to believe it’s real or will he walk out on them when the time is up?
I get the impression that Sharla Lovelace has a great time writing about small towns, creating the charming places with interesting townsfolk and their wacky dynamics. I loved reading about Charmed and feeling as though I was transported there. Aside from the parochial appeal, I very much enjoyed the slow burn relationship between the perky Lanie and sexy yet closed off Nick.
It’s clear that they both have vested interests in pulling off the lie, but Nick is able to jump effortlessly into his role whereas Lanie has a more difficult time having to quit her current job, not being able to accept her actual dream job in California all while having to deal with the ridiculously attractive man who struts dripping wet in only a towel after a hard run and before heading to work at the local dinner filled with fawning females who can’t get enough of the easy going new chef.
“How was the punch?” he asked.
I wound my fingers into his hair and pulled his head down.
“See for yourself,” I said, the last word finished against his lips.
Sparks ignited throughout my body as our lips met. Soft. Slow. Wet. Needing. Our bodies moved as one with the music, so close, so tightly pressed together I could feel his heart beating. My hands traveled slowly back down his chest and around his middle as his came up into my hair. When his tongue ran over my top lip, I knew he could feel my gasp. And when I pulled him in deeper to taste him, I felt the low growl in his chest rumbling against mine.
Having the need to show everyone that they’re madly in love and happily married requires them to be out and about together, holding hands and showing other PDAs which helps to fuel the already existing smoking hot attraction, but it’s during the quiet times when they’re alone when they get to know more of each other when that attraction turns into so much more.
I loved both Nick and Lanie equally. She was so lively yet a tad broken and insecure, but not enough to that it stopped her from defending her “husband” against all the unwanted female attention he got. That was so much fun to witness. Nick on the other hand was a bit walled off having had bad luck whenever it came to love, but I just swooned over every time he got instinctively protective over Lanie, whenever he flirted with her when no one was there to watch or listen in, and every time he sexily called her “Mrs. McKane.”
“What was that, Mr. McKane?” I said, putting my cake-covered hand to my ear. “Was that the sound of losing?”
Nick grabbed my hand and stuck one of my fingers in his mouth, sucking the cake off with his tongue. Everything stopped for me for a moment, the world going on tilt, and he winked as he licked his lips.
“What was that, Mrs. McKane? …The sound of shock?”
There’s so much I’d love to share, so many things I highlighted from sweet, to sexy, to emotional. Needless to say I was captive with their story and wanted to know how it would all turn out. I look forward to reading the next book in this series and anything else Sharla Lovelace puts out for the sentiments she evokes and the emotive stories she composes.
A Charmed Little Lie is the kickoff book in the series Charmed in Texas by author Sharla Lovelace. It is a standalone contemporary romance with a great balance between fun, wit, steaminess, and heartfelt emotions. It is told from the heroine’s point of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2oo2gBe
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
April 15, 2017
4 Oh, The Tangled Web Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
Good intentions... Not wanting to disappoint...Oh, and the always... I just wanted her to think everything was ok...Yup...Those thoughts can be a guarantee of things about to go south. Because no matter the "Good Intentions", when we lie to loved ones about what is actually happening in our personal lives...plan on it coming back to bite you squarely in that cute dimpled ass.
A Charmed Little Lie by Sharla Lovelace takes this premise and mixes it with a pretend marriage to satisfy an Aunt of the main character, Lanie Barrett. Lanie meant no harm... She loved her Aunt and just wanted to ease her mind, especially during her last days of her illness. She figured ...let her be happy and feel like everything was ok... and feel she had done her job in looking out for Lanie.
Unfortunately, Lanie did too good a job in padding her story to her aunt... and the aunt wasn't quite sure it was the real deal. The reading of the will was going to take place and it stipulated her presence with her man. This causes Lanie needing not only a fake guy to fill the shoes of "Her Beloved Husband" but worse... she had been so specific in her tall tales... He had to look a certain way, be a chef, be able to do construction...oh and she had to be traveling from California... because that was were she said she was living...and bring her marriage certificate, too...
Now What....
On her way to Charmed, Texas Lanie with her borrowed dog Ralph, she thought about her Aunt and the home she always felt safe in...It was a bit over the top with personality and needed repairs... but it was special to Lanie and she was going to figure out how to hold on to it. It was home.
With lots of driving and finally in Texas...Lanie pulls into a diner to get some food to go. Little does she realize her crazy plans are going to get some support...
Because there in the window of the kitchen is Nick McKane; a dark haired cook and built. Lanie couldn't had timed her life any better... fate had her there when all hell breaks loose and Nick quits his job because he has had enough of the BS the diner dishes out.
Lanie chases after him into the parking lot and presents an offer Nick cannot refuse. With no idea of where his next paycheck is coming from and a teen age daughter who needs her college tuition paid... Nick listens to Lanie's offer for a fast quick buck. Before the words are said...both agree to a quick 24 hr pretend marriage and they are on their way to Charmed.
It is at the signing when Lanie and Nick are hit with what this will is all about... Huge amounts of money...shockingly so...and the ownership of the home and its land. For the Aunt doubted the supposed marriage of her niece and put in a stipulation....
Lanie and her husband had to live in the house for 3 months, participate in the events of the town or forfeit everything...to money grubbing cousins who never cared about the aunt while she was alive. They wanted the home for the land and had a buyer ready to build condos.
Lanie and Nick leave the reading and Lanie is stunned. She never meant for any of this to happen... she doesn't even know how all these lies got started... But then she thinks about the town and how much her aunt loved it... and then she starts to calculate how much money she had to offer Nick to play along...and it would totally cover his daughter's college. She pitches him the concept and they decide to do it.
This tale has humor, heart and just plan fun. It is small town quirky and a romance that happens between our to main characters after some interesting experiences. Ex's show up looking to latch on for the money involved and the town plays a part as well.
This is a new series and I am sure the next entries will be Charmed too.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free
Good intentions... Not wanting to disappoint...Oh, and the always... I just wanted her to think everything was ok...Yup...Those thoughts can be a guarantee of things about to go south. Because no matter the "Good Intentions", when we lie to loved ones about what is actually happening in our personal lives...plan on it coming back to bite you squarely in that cute dimpled ass.
A Charmed Little Lie by Sharla Lovelace takes this premise and mixes it with a pretend marriage to satisfy an Aunt of the main character, Lanie Barrett. Lanie meant no harm... She loved her Aunt and just wanted to ease her mind, especially during her last days of her illness. She figured ...let her be happy and feel like everything was ok... and feel she had done her job in looking out for Lanie.
Unfortunately, Lanie did too good a job in padding her story to her aunt... and the aunt wasn't quite sure it was the real deal. The reading of the will was going to take place and it stipulated her presence with her man. This causes Lanie needing not only a fake guy to fill the shoes of "Her Beloved Husband" but worse... she had been so specific in her tall tales... He had to look a certain way, be a chef, be able to do construction...oh and she had to be traveling from California... because that was were she said she was living...and bring her marriage certificate, too...
Now What....
On her way to Charmed, Texas Lanie with her borrowed dog Ralph, she thought about her Aunt and the home she always felt safe in...It was a bit over the top with personality and needed repairs... but it was special to Lanie and she was going to figure out how to hold on to it. It was home.
With lots of driving and finally in Texas...Lanie pulls into a diner to get some food to go. Little does she realize her crazy plans are going to get some support...
Because there in the window of the kitchen is Nick McKane; a dark haired cook and built. Lanie couldn't had timed her life any better... fate had her there when all hell breaks loose and Nick quits his job because he has had enough of the BS the diner dishes out.
Lanie chases after him into the parking lot and presents an offer Nick cannot refuse. With no idea of where his next paycheck is coming from and a teen age daughter who needs her college tuition paid... Nick listens to Lanie's offer for a fast quick buck. Before the words are said...both agree to a quick 24 hr pretend marriage and they are on their way to Charmed.
It is at the signing when Lanie and Nick are hit with what this will is all about... Huge amounts of money...shockingly so...and the ownership of the home and its land. For the Aunt doubted the supposed marriage of her niece and put in a stipulation....
Lanie and her husband had to live in the house for 3 months, participate in the events of the town or forfeit everything...to money grubbing cousins who never cared about the aunt while she was alive. They wanted the home for the land and had a buyer ready to build condos.
Lanie and Nick leave the reading and Lanie is stunned. She never meant for any of this to happen... she doesn't even know how all these lies got started... But then she thinks about the town and how much her aunt loved it... and then she starts to calculate how much money she had to offer Nick to play along...and it would totally cover his daughter's college. She pitches him the concept and they decide to do it.
This tale has humor, heart and just plan fun. It is small town quirky and a romance that happens between our to main characters after some interesting experiences. Ex's show up looking to latch on for the money involved and the town plays a part as well.
This is a new series and I am sure the next entries will be Charmed too.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
April 16, 2017
Loved!!
March 12, 2017
Sharla Lovelace has the ‘small town romance’ story writing crown and I never want her to abdicate her well earned position. It can be hard to stand out in today’s romance story world, with hundreds of books being released each day but somehow she does just that. With her unique writing style and her ability to transport me to locations just by the words alone, where I can imagine everything she describes in wonderful detail, Sharla is a go to author for me.
Lanie grew up in the town of Charmed in Texas. She lived with her Aunt Ruby until she graduated college and began working in her chosen career. However, she may have told her Aunt a few little white lies over the past few years about her personal life - like the city she lives in and her marital status.
Therefore after the death of her Aunt and the funeral is over, several weeks later she is phoned to return for the reading of the will, she is told that she must bring her husband and marriage certificate. Well shit, she was not expecting that lie to bite her in the arse so soon! Nothing that a fake marriage license and a random stranger can’t fix though right?
So Lanie arrives in Charmed with her fake marriage license, a guy called Nick that she met at diner on the way and her neighbour’s Rottweiler dog in the back seat of her rental car. At this point I’m wondering how the hell she is going to pull this charade off. However, nothing could have prepared her for the full stipulations of Aunt Ruby’s will.
To inherit the house and money she has to live in Charmed for three months with her husband. If she cannot meet the terms the house and cash will go to her conniving cousins who are planning to demolish it and develop the land. Lanie has a job and apartment back home, Nick is a guy she has know for less than twelve hours who thought this was only going to be a 24 hour thing. This is quite the conundrum now!
Nevertheless, Lanie and Nick agree to the terms set out and immerse themselves into life in Charmed. The saying about people living in small towns being small minded, definitely applies to some of the townsfolk of Charmed. The gossip mongers are lapping up every morsel of information they can get about Lanie & Nick. It has not escaped the notice of the females that Nick is smoking hot and he finds himself having to fight off some particularly amorous ladies.
However, the reality of seeing Nick in a towel with no shirt on each morning is also playing havoc with Lanie’s hormones. There is this intense, sexual attraction simmering between them that is quietly brewing away but giving into it will make things even more complicated than they already are. The fake marriage between them is beginning to emerge into so much more than they expected, so what are they going to do about it?
This is the first book in the Charmed In Texas series which I am thrilled about as I really want to know more about the people in this town.
Lanie grew up in the town of Charmed in Texas. She lived with her Aunt Ruby until she graduated college and began working in her chosen career. However, she may have told her Aunt a few little white lies over the past few years about her personal life - like the city she lives in and her marital status.
Therefore after the death of her Aunt and the funeral is over, several weeks later she is phoned to return for the reading of the will, she is told that she must bring her husband and marriage certificate. Well shit, she was not expecting that lie to bite her in the arse so soon! Nothing that a fake marriage license and a random stranger can’t fix though right?
So Lanie arrives in Charmed with her fake marriage license, a guy called Nick that she met at diner on the way and her neighbour’s Rottweiler dog in the back seat of her rental car. At this point I’m wondering how the hell she is going to pull this charade off. However, nothing could have prepared her for the full stipulations of Aunt Ruby’s will.
To inherit the house and money she has to live in Charmed for three months with her husband. If she cannot meet the terms the house and cash will go to her conniving cousins who are planning to demolish it and develop the land. Lanie has a job and apartment back home, Nick is a guy she has know for less than twelve hours who thought this was only going to be a 24 hour thing. This is quite the conundrum now!
Nevertheless, Lanie and Nick agree to the terms set out and immerse themselves into life in Charmed. The saying about people living in small towns being small minded, definitely applies to some of the townsfolk of Charmed. The gossip mongers are lapping up every morsel of information they can get about Lanie & Nick. It has not escaped the notice of the females that Nick is smoking hot and he finds himself having to fight off some particularly amorous ladies.
However, the reality of seeing Nick in a towel with no shirt on each morning is also playing havoc with Lanie’s hormones. There is this intense, sexual attraction simmering between them that is quietly brewing away but giving into it will make things even more complicated than they already are. The fake marriage between them is beginning to emerge into so much more than they expected, so what are they going to do about it?
This is the first book in the Charmed In Texas series which I am thrilled about as I really want to know more about the people in this town.
May 8, 2017
4.5 Stars
According to her Aunt Ruby’s crazy will, Lanie needs to provide a valid marriage certificate (complete with husband) and they need to live together in her childhood home from three months in order to inherit. Enter Nick, the oh-so-hot fry cook suddenly in need of some cash. So Lanie and Nick end up in a fake marriage and tethered to each other for three months. Their romance was a slow steady burn, fueled by “fake” displays of affection, and heated encounters! But Nick and Lanie fell for more than just the physical person, they confided and leaned on each other, becoming close friends in the process.
Crazy ex’s on both sides lead to jealousy and the realization that their relationship is anything but fake. I love the way both Lanie and Nick reacted to some of the antics. Pretty fun times. I wasn’t so thrilled with Nick’s ex-wife. I thought this would be a cute, fun, no-brainer small-town, country romance, and it was, but there was a bit more angst than I thought there would be. That wasn’t a bad thing, Lanie’s intense emotions of hurt knifed right to my heart, and I really felt for her. It made their happiness and romance all the sweeter.
This is my first Sharla Lovelace romance and I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of emotions I felt, especially since this wasn’t a very long book (241 pages according to GRs), one I read in one sitting. There was a sneak peak at the end for Carmen’s romance: Lucky Charmed, and it sounds really good! Can’t wait!
A copy was kindly provided by Lyrical Shine via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
According to her Aunt Ruby’s crazy will, Lanie needs to provide a valid marriage certificate (complete with husband) and they need to live together in her childhood home from three months in order to inherit. Enter Nick, the oh-so-hot fry cook suddenly in need of some cash. So Lanie and Nick end up in a fake marriage and tethered to each other for three months. Their romance was a slow steady burn, fueled by “fake” displays of affection, and heated encounters! But Nick and Lanie fell for more than just the physical person, they confided and leaned on each other, becoming close friends in the process.
Crazy ex’s on both sides lead to jealousy and the realization that their relationship is anything but fake. I love the way both Lanie and Nick reacted to some of the antics. Pretty fun times. I wasn’t so thrilled with Nick’s ex-wife. I thought this would be a cute, fun, no-brainer small-town, country romance, and it was, but there was a bit more angst than I thought there would be. That wasn’t a bad thing, Lanie’s intense emotions of hurt knifed right to my heart, and I really felt for her. It made their happiness and romance all the sweeter.
This is my first Sharla Lovelace romance and I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of emotions I felt, especially since this wasn’t a very long book (241 pages according to GRs), one I read in one sitting. There was a sneak peak at the end for Carmen’s romance: Lucky Charmed, and it sounds really good! Can’t wait!
A copy was kindly provided by Lyrical Shine via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2018
I'm throwing in the towel at 70%. Yeah, the setup for this story is ludicrous and doesn't survive even cursory examination. I mean, Lanie's aunt is an insufferable jerk to pull this crap on Lanie and Lanie is a spineless idiot for her hijinks to game the stupid requirements set forth by Aunty Idiot. And I'll put up with that as part of my "give the book its premise" policy. Only then more stupid contrivances happen with people who dream one day of becoming caricatures, if only they can gain some depth. In short, I wasn't charmed, even a little bit.
It isn't helped that both Lanie and Nick are negatively motivated* cowards. They spend most of a month longing for one another in a situation where a single conversation would have moved them forward to both their satisfaction. Only they dance around each other and let cretins manipulate them into hijinks that are so lame they qualify for disability insurance. By the time Nick just stood by while his ex waltzed all over him I was just done. I love a strong, competent guy taking care of people he loves. Well, it turns out that strong, incompetent guys unable to show an ex the door are pretty much the opposite. I lost all respect for Nick, though some of that is Lovelace's fault for having his greatest stupidity () happen off-stage—probably because putting it on stage would show how stupid he is for letting it happen.
When I stopped, I had two easily-manipulated cowards struggling to overcome contrivances supplied by the author with background that couldn't stand scrutiny. And it is frankly a relief to be done with them.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
It isn't helped that both Lanie and Nick are negatively motivated* cowards. They spend most of a month longing for one another in a situation where a single conversation would have moved them forward to both their satisfaction. Only they dance around each other and let cretins manipulate them into hijinks that are so lame they qualify for disability insurance. By the time Nick just stood by while his ex waltzed all over him I was just done. I love a strong, competent guy taking care of people he loves. Well, it turns out that strong, incompetent guys unable to show an ex the door are pretty much the opposite. I lost all respect for Nick, though some of that is Lovelace's fault for having his greatest stupidity () happen off-stage—probably because putting it on stage would show how stupid he is for letting it happen.
When I stopped, I had two easily-manipulated cowards struggling to overcome contrivances supplied by the author with background that couldn't stand scrutiny. And it is frankly a relief to be done with them.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
March 20, 2017
3.75 stars rounded up
I discovered Sharla Lovelace last year, with her Heart of the Storm series. I love her writing style. Which is why, when I saw that she had a new series with Lyrical Press, I jumped for the chance to request the advanced copy.
Lanie Barrett needs a husband. Stat. Apparently her deceased Aunt Ruby makes it a clause in her will that in order for Lanie to inherit the house and the money, Lanie needs to prove that she is blissfully married and must stay with her husband for three months at the house. It's all because Lanie spun a story about her nuptial to her aunt shortly before she passed away. Enters Nick McKane, a divorcé who needs work and money to send his daughter to college. So Nick agrees to be Lanie's husband and Lanie promises to share the wealth. Only things get complicated when their fake marriage starts to feel real.
Well, for the most part, A Charmed Little Lie is a delightful read! The story is written solely from Lanie's first person perspective and she is FUN to be around with. I loved her quips ... the humor here fit to my liking. I had so much fun reading how Lanie tried to get out from the deep hole that she dug herself into.
Some of the situations might be a little rom-com cliché, like the way Lanie's ex (and his wife!) tried to seduce Lanie and Nick away from each other, since they were in it for the money as well ... but it resulted in hilarious moments, I couldn't really complain.
It isn't perfect though... I wish that Ms. Lovelace explores more about Nick and Lanie "connecting" before acknowledging that they fall in love with one another. Since this book is only from Lanie's perspective, I felt that Nick was still a mysterious character. I didn't know much about him apart from him being a divorced father who needed the money ... most of what I knew about Nick I got from Lanie's opinion (and perception) about him. I didn't really knew what Nick thought of Lanie and when he fell in love with Lanie. It felt a bit one sided...
Having said that, I definitely can say that I was charmed (see what I did there *wink*) and I look forward to reading the next book about Carmen, Lanie's friend.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I discovered Sharla Lovelace last year, with her Heart of the Storm series. I love her writing style. Which is why, when I saw that she had a new series with Lyrical Press, I jumped for the chance to request the advanced copy.
Lanie Barrett needs a husband. Stat. Apparently her deceased Aunt Ruby makes it a clause in her will that in order for Lanie to inherit the house and the money, Lanie needs to prove that she is blissfully married and must stay with her husband for three months at the house. It's all because Lanie spun a story about her nuptial to her aunt shortly before she passed away. Enters Nick McKane, a divorcé who needs work and money to send his daughter to college. So Nick agrees to be Lanie's husband and Lanie promises to share the wealth. Only things get complicated when their fake marriage starts to feel real.
Well, for the most part, A Charmed Little Lie is a delightful read! The story is written solely from Lanie's first person perspective and she is FUN to be around with. I loved her quips ... the humor here fit to my liking. I had so much fun reading how Lanie tried to get out from the deep hole that she dug herself into.
Some of the situations might be a little rom-com cliché, like the way Lanie's ex (and his wife!) tried to seduce Lanie and Nick away from each other, since they were in it for the money as well ... but it resulted in hilarious moments, I couldn't really complain.
It isn't perfect though... I wish that Ms. Lovelace explores more about Nick and Lanie "connecting" before acknowledging that they fall in love with one another. Since this book is only from Lanie's perspective, I felt that Nick was still a mysterious character. I didn't know much about him apart from him being a divorced father who needed the money ... most of what I knew about Nick I got from Lanie's opinion (and perception) about him. I didn't really knew what Nick thought of Lanie and when he fell in love with Lanie. It felt a bit one sided...
Having said that, I definitely can say that I was charmed (see what I did there *wink*) and I look forward to reading the next book about Carmen, Lanie's friend.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
March 29, 2017
omg I AM SO UNBELIEVEABLY HAPPY RIGHT NOW!
Why are you shouting you may ask? Well, I have been in a bit of a book slump but Sharla Lovelaces's A Charmed Little Lie has cured me - thank goodness! I am on a book high right now :)
Sharla is the Queen of Small Town Romance - she has given us a book with a little bit of everything - fun, wit, emotion, heartfelt conversations, and sexy chemistry.
Full review to come! I am IN LOVE with the start of this series and can't wait for more!!!
Preorder: http://amzn.to/2nwSMVA
Why are you shouting you may ask? Well, I have been in a bit of a book slump but Sharla Lovelaces's A Charmed Little Lie has cured me - thank goodness! I am on a book high right now :)
Sharla is the Queen of Small Town Romance - she has given us a book with a little bit of everything - fun, wit, emotion, heartfelt conversations, and sexy chemistry.
Full review to come! I am IN LOVE with the start of this series and can't wait for more!!!
Preorder: http://amzn.to/2nwSMVA
August 24, 2017
There were lots of cute things about this book and lots of humorous moments. I liked Laine and Nick together. There was just something missing for me, though. I thought some of the things Laine did were unrealistic - and I'm not even talking about the fake relationship part - and cringe-worthy. I liked it enough, though, that I would read more from this author.
April 12, 2017
When Lanie Barrett is called back to Charmed, Texas for the reading of her beloved Aunt Ruby's will, she has a bit of a problem. She has to bring her husband and marriage certificate. The problem being they don't really exist. It was just a little lie to make a dying woman happy.
When the perfect solution appears unexpectedly, it seems like it will be easy. Nick McKane, a very recently unemployed man in need of money agrees to come with her and play her husband, she'll get her inheritance, and they will say goodbye. One day, easy peasy, and everyone wins.
But Aunt Ruby is not going to make it that easy. Now Lanie and Nick have to keep up their farce and navigate life in Charmed for longer than they expected with a crazy group of quirky people. And there's some scheming cousins and townspeople trying to make trouble and prove that Lanie is lying for their own personal gain. And some of the situations are pure rom-com craziness.
But the more Lanie and Nick are together, the more real it feels. Nick is sexy, caring, protective, and alpha. Lanie is a bit more awkward, but sassy and sweet. They've got great chemistry that just sizzles. But between the nosy neighbors, shenanigans, and personal issues it is hard to find time to figure out where they really stand. They both have fears, insecurities, and abandonment issues. She is afraid of love and being too attached to a man. He is afraid to trust. They do not always effectively communicate, especially Lanie. And that makes for even more anxiety and confusion.
Is it fake, real, fate, or divine intervention? And can they manage to do what needs to be done to save Lanie's childhood home and inheritance?
This is a delightful, sweet, romantic, funny small town fake-to-real love story about unexpected gifts, fate, faith, and intuition. It is told in Lanie's point of view. I wish we could have heard Nick's voice because some of his motivations remained a mystery. But at least he did a better job of communicating his feelings than Lanie did. The townies added humor, drama, and sometimes even disgust with their behavior. But there were a few likable ones. Her friend, Carmen's story intrigued me with her previous lost loves. I also enjoyed Bash so hopefully he will return as well. Even dearly departed Aunt Ruby felt present in the "words of wisdom" chapter headings and how she communicated her last wishes. It was an engaging and heartwarming start to a new series and I am looking forward to more in Charmed. Texas.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
When the perfect solution appears unexpectedly, it seems like it will be easy. Nick McKane, a very recently unemployed man in need of money agrees to come with her and play her husband, she'll get her inheritance, and they will say goodbye. One day, easy peasy, and everyone wins.
But Aunt Ruby is not going to make it that easy. Now Lanie and Nick have to keep up their farce and navigate life in Charmed for longer than they expected with a crazy group of quirky people. And there's some scheming cousins and townspeople trying to make trouble and prove that Lanie is lying for their own personal gain. And some of the situations are pure rom-com craziness.
But the more Lanie and Nick are together, the more real it feels. Nick is sexy, caring, protective, and alpha. Lanie is a bit more awkward, but sassy and sweet. They've got great chemistry that just sizzles. But between the nosy neighbors, shenanigans, and personal issues it is hard to find time to figure out where they really stand. They both have fears, insecurities, and abandonment issues. She is afraid of love and being too attached to a man. He is afraid to trust. They do not always effectively communicate, especially Lanie. And that makes for even more anxiety and confusion.
Is it fake, real, fate, or divine intervention? And can they manage to do what needs to be done to save Lanie's childhood home and inheritance?
This is a delightful, sweet, romantic, funny small town fake-to-real love story about unexpected gifts, fate, faith, and intuition. It is told in Lanie's point of view. I wish we could have heard Nick's voice because some of his motivations remained a mystery. But at least he did a better job of communicating his feelings than Lanie did. The townies added humor, drama, and sometimes even disgust with their behavior. But there were a few likable ones. Her friend, Carmen's story intrigued me with her previous lost loves. I also enjoyed Bash so hopefully he will return as well. Even dearly departed Aunt Ruby felt present in the "words of wisdom" chapter headings and how she communicated her last wishes. It was an engaging and heartwarming start to a new series and I am looking forward to more in Charmed. Texas.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
April 1, 2017
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley on the promise of an honest review. Thank you! The expected publication date is April 18th, 2017.
I had a really good time with this book. I found it light, funny, and entertaining. With this genre, it can sometimes feel repetitive if you read a lot within the genre (which I do) however this story still felt fresh to me which added to my enjoyment.
The character of Lanie was a complete trainwreck, in a humorous way. Talk about your lies catching up with you and the lengths required to maintain the lie. Nick on the other hand was simply dreamy. A man who is physically everything you could want and a great cook? Come on, who wouldn't love that?
The concept behind the plot was not new however the execution was really good in my opinion. The story moved along without dragging out any of the drama for two long. The chemistry between Nick and Lanie was something that I could feel as the reader without it all being about what happens between the sheets. I give kudos to Lovelace for how she balanced this to keep the reader engaged.
It seems that this is the first story in what will be a series. I am really curious as to how this plays out. The reason is that normally it centers around a town that you fall in love with and you get to know the characters. In this case, after this first story, most of the characters are less than charming (pun intended) however I can tell that I will also love the protagonist in the next story. Hopefully we will get to see a better side of the townsfolk in Charmed.
I wholeheartedly recommend this story for a light and humorous read!
New to my reviews is that I am including a quote that stood out to me. It can be for any reason, if it really resonated to me or simply because it made me laugh out loud. In this case it was because of the latter.
"What if he was a serial killer? What if he was a chronic farter? What if he liked mustard?
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley on the promise of an honest review. Thank you! The expected publication date is April 18th, 2017.
I had a really good time with this book. I found it light, funny, and entertaining. With this genre, it can sometimes feel repetitive if you read a lot within the genre (which I do) however this story still felt fresh to me which added to my enjoyment.
The character of Lanie was a complete trainwreck, in a humorous way. Talk about your lies catching up with you and the lengths required to maintain the lie. Nick on the other hand was simply dreamy. A man who is physically everything you could want and a great cook? Come on, who wouldn't love that?
The concept behind the plot was not new however the execution was really good in my opinion. The story moved along without dragging out any of the drama for two long. The chemistry between Nick and Lanie was something that I could feel as the reader without it all being about what happens between the sheets. I give kudos to Lovelace for how she balanced this to keep the reader engaged.
It seems that this is the first story in what will be a series. I am really curious as to how this plays out. The reason is that normally it centers around a town that you fall in love with and you get to know the characters. In this case, after this first story, most of the characters are less than charming (pun intended) however I can tell that I will also love the protagonist in the next story. Hopefully we will get to see a better side of the townsfolk in Charmed.
I wholeheartedly recommend this story for a light and humorous read!
New to my reviews is that I am including a quote that stood out to me. It can be for any reason, if it really resonated to me or simply because it made me laugh out loud. In this case it was because of the latter.
"What if he was a serial killer? What if he was a chronic farter? What if he liked mustard?
April 8, 2017
A Charmed Little Lie was the kind of book that made me set it down right in the middle and start shooting off notes to all my bookish friends because my feels could not be contained and the only thing that can be done in a situation like that is to shout from the hilltops - YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!.
Look, Sharla Lovelace is a new-to-me author. I picked this up with a sort of heavy skepticism. I don't even know what I was expecting. I do love small town romances and I do love fake romances - but both tropes can easily go awry and I honestly just wasn't sure what to expect. What I got was a book that completely sucked me in, and kept me compulsively flipping pages while my heart danced and fluttered in that completely addictive and satisfying way that it does when I read a really good romance.
And also? A new author to fangirl over because the writing here was fun and fresh, the storytelling completely compelling, and the romance? Gahhhhhhhh, so good. Ms. Lovelace captured the quirks and the trials of small town living without ever pushing it over-the-top or making it feel too campy. I loved the colorful and interesting secondary characters - and who wouldn't love dopey and adorable Ralph? It was charming and hilarious perfectly blended with heartwarming and sexy. Honestly - the chemistry between Nick and Lanie kept my pulse pounding and my breath bated as they sparked against each other over and over again. I wholly enjoyed the push/pull of their relationship. I enjoyed them both as characters separately, and how they treated each other as a couple.
I loved every minute.
Even the ones where I wanted to punch someone.
Maybe even especially those moments because it means I was invested enough to feel like I was a part of the story. Like I had a stake in Nick & Lanie's future. I rooted so hard for them, and my heart practically burst with happiness when this story came to the most incredibly satisfying conclusion.
I am so glad I took a chance on this new-to-me author. This was the kind of discovery that made my heart race with excitement and my greedy little grabby hands want to snatch up the entirety of Ms. Lovelace's backlist and lose myself in more of these lovely stories for days. Needless to say, I'm 100% charmed by Charmed, TX and beyond excited that there is more to come! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
Look, Sharla Lovelace is a new-to-me author. I picked this up with a sort of heavy skepticism. I don't even know what I was expecting. I do love small town romances and I do love fake romances - but both tropes can easily go awry and I honestly just wasn't sure what to expect. What I got was a book that completely sucked me in, and kept me compulsively flipping pages while my heart danced and fluttered in that completely addictive and satisfying way that it does when I read a really good romance.
And also? A new author to fangirl over because the writing here was fun and fresh, the storytelling completely compelling, and the romance? Gahhhhhhhh, so good. Ms. Lovelace captured the quirks and the trials of small town living without ever pushing it over-the-top or making it feel too campy. I loved the colorful and interesting secondary characters - and who wouldn't love dopey and adorable Ralph? It was charming and hilarious perfectly blended with heartwarming and sexy. Honestly - the chemistry between Nick and Lanie kept my pulse pounding and my breath bated as they sparked against each other over and over again. I wholly enjoyed the push/pull of their relationship. I enjoyed them both as characters separately, and how they treated each other as a couple.
I loved every minute.
Even the ones where I wanted to punch someone.
Maybe even especially those moments because it means I was invested enough to feel like I was a part of the story. Like I had a stake in Nick & Lanie's future. I rooted so hard for them, and my heart practically burst with happiness when this story came to the most incredibly satisfying conclusion.
I am so glad I took a chance on this new-to-me author. This was the kind of discovery that made my heart race with excitement and my greedy little grabby hands want to snatch up the entirety of Ms. Lovelace's backlist and lose myself in more of these lovely stories for days. Needless to say, I'm 100% charmed by Charmed, TX and beyond excited that there is more to come! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
April 19, 2017
ARC received for an honest review.
Another manic book rambling brought to you by April;
Read & Share Book Reviews.
5 'Life is messy. Love is messier.' Stars
I'm truly, madly, deeply in love with Sharla Lovelace's latest masterpiece, A Charmed Little Lie. When I get -that feeling- of butterflies swarming my belly, zings and zaps coursing through my veins, goosebumps from head to toe early in, I know I'm in for a stellar reading adventure. My booknerd spidey senses haven't led me astray yet!
Lovelace is the Queen-Bee of small-town USA romance, buzzing with emotions, overflowing with swoon, bursting with all the feels, needs, and wants that her readers crave. Story-lines that thrive with uniqueness and never been read before ideas. Beautifully written with such class that make even the sexiest and naughtiest of scenes tasteful and decadent. Her books are the full package.
A Charmed Little Lie is based on a silly little frivolous lie, where baggage meets baggage, and the love of a lifetime blossoms in this first installment of the Charmed in Texas series. Lanie should have known that you can't fool the Barrett intuition. Aunt Ruby was no imbecile, and the reading of her will and months to come prove such.
I had so much fun devouring this book, tapping my way through spectacle after spectacle. I couldn't read fast enough!! Lanie and Nick we're an unstoppable duo, each for their own reasons, ultimately coming together to out-do the villains of the story for the ultimate happily ever after! Lovelace does romance like no other, her works teaching life lessons and self worth throughout. Without losing focus on this story and it's principle characters, Lovelace seamlessly weaved in buildup for the next installment in the series that I can't wait to get my hands on!!
Another manic book rambling brought to you by April;
Read & Share Book Reviews.
5 'Life is messy. Love is messier.' Stars
I'm truly, madly, deeply in love with Sharla Lovelace's latest masterpiece, A Charmed Little Lie. When I get -that feeling- of butterflies swarming my belly, zings and zaps coursing through my veins, goosebumps from head to toe early in, I know I'm in for a stellar reading adventure. My booknerd spidey senses haven't led me astray yet!
Lovelace is the Queen-Bee of small-town USA romance, buzzing with emotions, overflowing with swoon, bursting with all the feels, needs, and wants that her readers crave. Story-lines that thrive with uniqueness and never been read before ideas. Beautifully written with such class that make even the sexiest and naughtiest of scenes tasteful and decadent. Her books are the full package.
A Charmed Little Lie is based on a silly little frivolous lie, where baggage meets baggage, and the love of a lifetime blossoms in this first installment of the Charmed in Texas series. Lanie should have known that you can't fool the Barrett intuition. Aunt Ruby was no imbecile, and the reading of her will and months to come prove such.
I had so much fun devouring this book, tapping my way through spectacle after spectacle. I couldn't read fast enough!! Lanie and Nick we're an unstoppable duo, each for their own reasons, ultimately coming together to out-do the villains of the story for the ultimate happily ever after! Lovelace does romance like no other, her works teaching life lessons and self worth throughout. Without losing focus on this story and it's principle characters, Lovelace seamlessly weaved in buildup for the next installment in the series that I can't wait to get my hands on!!
April 16, 2017
A Charmed Little Lie by Sharla Lovelace
Charmed in Texas #1
This book kept me up till the wee hours of the morning. Why? I just could not put it down. I knew there would ultimately be a HEA BUT I had to know how it would come about. How would two people who married in a type of marriage of convenience that would garner them both something they wanted find their way to that HEA? What kind of place would Charmed, Texas be? Who might show up in future books of the series? Well, I read and read and read some more then when I turned the light off at 2:30am I couldn’t put the story behind me though it was dark and the light was out. Lanie and Nick stayed with me and left me wanting to know more about Charmed’s apiary community and also wanting to read the next book in the series BUT it is not out yet! I am not going to tell you more than this BUT I will say that if you are looking for a wonderful small town romance with two characters that are perfect together and richly deserve their HEA then this book is one I highly recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books – Lyrical Shine for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Charmed in Texas #1
This book kept me up till the wee hours of the morning. Why? I just could not put it down. I knew there would ultimately be a HEA BUT I had to know how it would come about. How would two people who married in a type of marriage of convenience that would garner them both something they wanted find their way to that HEA? What kind of place would Charmed, Texas be? Who might show up in future books of the series? Well, I read and read and read some more then when I turned the light off at 2:30am I couldn’t put the story behind me though it was dark and the light was out. Lanie and Nick stayed with me and left me wanting to know more about Charmed’s apiary community and also wanting to read the next book in the series BUT it is not out yet! I am not going to tell you more than this BUT I will say that if you are looking for a wonderful small town romance with two characters that are perfect together and richly deserve their HEA then this book is one I highly recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books – Lyrical Shine for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
April 20, 2017
A Charmed Little Lie charmed me right off. I loved Lanie. I loved that she loved her aunt and the home she provided. I loved that she was willing to do what it took to make her aunt’s last moments happy. Even if Aunt Ruth did not buy the lie. It was total fun watching Lanie and Nick getting to know each other while pretending to know each other. Charmed, Texas had its own quaint small town charm. I loved the characters that played secondary. I loved the closeness. I hated the closeness. It was warm, fuzzy, funny, crazy, and more. What do you get when you lie about and husband and then have to produce that husband? You get this charming little read that will brighten your day and make you smile.
March 26, 2017
It all started with a lie. A simple lie to make her dying aunt happy. How did Lanie get to the point of asking a stranger to pretend to be her husband for the day, and the next being married to this stranger and agreeing to keep up the charade for three months? All to keep her aunts house in a town she couldn't wait to get out of, but a place she calls home. Nick needs the money and he's ready to do what it takes to pay for his daughters art school tuition. Lanie and Nick find themselves playing the game of pretending to be in love... Only they stopped playing and things started to become real. Can Lanie fall in love and can Nick let his guard down and give Lanie his trust?
"My woman is the one I’m supposed to be faking it with, and yet I’m at a loss for what to do because there’s nothing fake about it anymore.”
This was my first book by Sharla Lovelace and it's definitely not my last! I loved everything about this book. Lanie and Nick pulled me in to this 'Charmed' story from page one. I was captured and sucked in with every touch, lingering eye and seductive word. I can't wait to continue to read this series with Carmens book.
**ARC via NetGalley for an honest review**
"My woman is the one I’m supposed to be faking it with, and yet I’m at a loss for what to do because there’s nothing fake about it anymore.”
This was my first book by Sharla Lovelace and it's definitely not my last! I loved everything about this book. Lanie and Nick pulled me in to this 'Charmed' story from page one. I was captured and sucked in with every touch, lingering eye and seductive word. I can't wait to continue to read this series with Carmens book.
**ARC via NetGalley for an honest review**
April 21, 2017
I am going to keep this short ad sweet just like A Charmed Little Lie 🙂
Sharla Lovelace delivers the perfect contemporary romance with just a little hint of magical realism thrown in. The small town setting was completely “Charming” as one would expect from a town named Charmed.
And the chemistry between Lanie and Nick was off the charts! I loved the interactions between the two and the slow build up over the course of the novel. This romance just left me feeling all gooey inside.
And was Aunt Ruby “helping” them along a little bit? I like to think so….
Bottom line: I absolutely adored A Charmed Little Lie and can’t wait to read the next in the series!
I seriously recommend this read if you want a book that just feels like magic from the moment you pick it up. Warm and cozy and just an all around feel good read with just the perfect amount of sizzle to keep it interesting.
Sharla Lovelace delivers the perfect contemporary romance with just a little hint of magical realism thrown in. The small town setting was completely “Charming” as one would expect from a town named Charmed.
And the chemistry between Lanie and Nick was off the charts! I loved the interactions between the two and the slow build up over the course of the novel. This romance just left me feeling all gooey inside.
And was Aunt Ruby “helping” them along a little bit? I like to think so….
Bottom line: I absolutely adored A Charmed Little Lie and can’t wait to read the next in the series!
I seriously recommend this read if you want a book that just feels like magic from the moment you pick it up. Warm and cozy and just an all around feel good read with just the perfect amount of sizzle to keep it interesting.
March 10, 2017
5 charming stars!
I'm a sucker for fake marriage plots so I knew I would love this one! I've only read one other Sharla Lovelace book and I loved it too so I definitely have to check out her other stuff!
Lanie was raised by her quirky aunt in a small town, when she grows up and moves away, she tells a little lie to her aunt and tells her that she is happily married in California. In reality she lives in Louisiana, she's single and she has somehow found herself the owner of a massive Rottweiler called Ralph. Now Lanies aunt has passed away leaving a will with certain conditions and her little lie has got her into a lot of trouble - Lanie needs a husband and fast.
Enter Nick. YUMMY. A total swoonworthy hero with a boatload of issues - what more could we want?! I loved the progress of Lanie & Nick's relationship, it wasn't insta-love...the pacing was perfect and believable.
I'd recommend to anyone who wants a cute romantic read with only a couple of sexy scenes but the chemistry was HOT!
An advanced copy was received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a sucker for fake marriage plots so I knew I would love this one! I've only read one other Sharla Lovelace book and I loved it too so I definitely have to check out her other stuff!
Lanie was raised by her quirky aunt in a small town, when she grows up and moves away, she tells a little lie to her aunt and tells her that she is happily married in California. In reality she lives in Louisiana, she's single and she has somehow found herself the owner of a massive Rottweiler called Ralph. Now Lanies aunt has passed away leaving a will with certain conditions and her little lie has got her into a lot of trouble - Lanie needs a husband and fast.
Enter Nick. YUMMY. A total swoonworthy hero with a boatload of issues - what more could we want?! I loved the progress of Lanie & Nick's relationship, it wasn't insta-love...the pacing was perfect and believable.
I'd recommend to anyone who wants a cute romantic read with only a couple of sexy scenes but the chemistry was HOT!
An advanced copy was received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2017
4.5 stars
Lanie didn’t mean to spin herself into a corner; she just wanted to make her grandmother happy. But now Lanie will have to arrive in Charmed,TX with her husband in order to keep her inheritance. There’s just one problem: she isn’t really married.
Nick wasn’t having a very good day, and a quick way to earn a couple hundred extra dollars sounded like a good way to make the most of a bad situation.
They are complete strangers who have to act happily married. But what happens when the lines between reality and pretend begin to blur?
Serendipity plays a large part in the beginning of this book, to the point it almost feels like a character itself. The perfect storm of meeting place and time, desperation, and drive sends these two on a trip that turns into more than either bargained for.
I loved every minute of this book. As a sweet, summer read, this was perfectly placed to keep me entertained and light hearted. Lanie’s family proved the perfect antagonists with their self centered motives against her desire to hold on to her grandmother’s memory. The townspeople added both fun and tension, depending on which side of the battle they were on.
This book has a perfect touch of humor mixed with it’s small town, fake marriage situation. Really, it would be hard to have a fake marriage in a small town without some humor, but this is perfectly placed, perfectly managed humor to balance the tricky situation Nick and Lanie have created.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Lanie didn’t mean to spin herself into a corner; she just wanted to make her grandmother happy. But now Lanie will have to arrive in Charmed,TX with her husband in order to keep her inheritance. There’s just one problem: she isn’t really married.
Nick wasn’t having a very good day, and a quick way to earn a couple hundred extra dollars sounded like a good way to make the most of a bad situation.
They are complete strangers who have to act happily married. But what happens when the lines between reality and pretend begin to blur?
Serendipity plays a large part in the beginning of this book, to the point it almost feels like a character itself. The perfect storm of meeting place and time, desperation, and drive sends these two on a trip that turns into more than either bargained for.
I loved every minute of this book. As a sweet, summer read, this was perfectly placed to keep me entertained and light hearted. Lanie’s family proved the perfect antagonists with their self centered motives against her desire to hold on to her grandmother’s memory. The townspeople added both fun and tension, depending on which side of the battle they were on.
This book has a perfect touch of humor mixed with it’s small town, fake marriage situation. Really, it would be hard to have a fake marriage in a small town without some humor, but this is perfectly placed, perfectly managed humor to balance the tricky situation Nick and Lanie have created.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2017
At the beginning I loved the book, but as the story progressed I felt more and more that something was missing. A lot of somethings, actually. So that's how my rating went quickly downhill, too.
I feel like even after finishing the book, I didn't get to really know the characters at all. Like they existed in the background of the story, and I wasn't privy to their feelings for each other, their backgrounds or their personalities. Like I was watching everything from the sidelines.
I wish the second half of the book was stronger, better developed, and I wish it showed me the feelings the characters had for each other instead of just telling me.
I feel like even after finishing the book, I didn't get to really know the characters at all. Like they existed in the background of the story, and I wasn't privy to their feelings for each other, their backgrounds or their personalities. Like I was watching everything from the sidelines.
I wish the second half of the book was stronger, better developed, and I wish it showed me the feelings the characters had for each other instead of just telling me.
December 6, 2017
A humorous and emotionally heartfelt romance. This couple was just pure fun. Review to come.
April 7, 2017
4.5☆ - Standalone fake marriage of convenience / strangers to lovers romance in a small town
A Charmed Little Lie by Sharla Lovelace is my first read by this author and I really enjoyed this cute and witty fake marriage of convenience / strangers to lovers romance in a small town. The humorous wit laced throughout kept things light, balancing it well with the emotional undertone of the story. Despite being a common theme, Sharla Lovelace added a refreshingly unique take to make this an addictive page turning read!
Lanie and Nick have such a great chemistry that is sexy with just the right amount of heat without it taking over the book. Lanie is a quirky woman However, as the book is told solely from Lanie’s perspective, we are limited in fully connecting and understanding Nick. Through the portrayal from Lanie it’s easy as a reader to get charmed by this sexy man determined to do his best so his daughter can achieve her dreams at college. Lanie is a quirky woman who is quickly very likeable and stays true to her core despite everything she goes through. There were some loveable sub-characters who I can’t wait to read more about and some not so loveable sub-characters (purposely so). Also, one other thing I loved about the book and the characters involved was that with Nick being a single dad just when I thought the book was going to go a typical drama root it surprised me and didn’t.
This is a first in series and I will definitely keep an eye out for more as I thoroughly enjoyed this refreshingly unique fake romance of convenience and definitely recommend it!
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
A Charmed Little Lie by Sharla Lovelace is my first read by this author and I really enjoyed this cute and witty fake marriage of convenience / strangers to lovers romance in a small town. The humorous wit laced throughout kept things light, balancing it well with the emotional undertone of the story. Despite being a common theme, Sharla Lovelace added a refreshingly unique take to make this an addictive page turning read!
Lanie and Nick have such a great chemistry that is sexy with just the right amount of heat without it taking over the book. Lanie is a quirky woman However, as the book is told solely from Lanie’s perspective, we are limited in fully connecting and understanding Nick. Through the portrayal from Lanie it’s easy as a reader to get charmed by this sexy man determined to do his best so his daughter can achieve her dreams at college. Lanie is a quirky woman who is quickly very likeable and stays true to her core despite everything she goes through. There were some loveable sub-characters who I can’t wait to read more about and some not so loveable sub-characters (purposely so). Also, one other thing I loved about the book and the characters involved was that with Nick being a single dad just when I thought the book was going to go a typical drama root it surprised me and didn’t.
This is a first in series and I will definitely keep an eye out for more as I thoroughly enjoyed this refreshingly unique fake romance of convenience and definitely recommend it!
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
April 18, 2017
Sharla Lovelace does not disappoint with A Charmed Little Lie. Once again she has written a beautiful love story with all the feels. The most unexpected romance between Lanie and Nick, brought together out of pure desperation, trying to satisfy a beloved, yet quirky Aunt's will. And what is so damn wonderful is that despite this mutual arrangement, they can't help but fall for one another and we are lucky enough to have front row seats!
I adored the slow burn. The wondering of whether or not these two would come to their senses and realize they have true feelings for each other. Their day to day, living a lie as husband and wife, was at times so poignant. Both Lanie and Nick letting down their guards, letting another person into their lonely worlds. The pangs of jealousy at high school boyfriends or long lost ex-wives, I loved their reactions and the way they fit so perfectly together as if they'd known each other all their lives.
There is also great humor in the form of an orphaned dog named Ralph and the ever-present spirit aka Aunt Ruby. The wit and unexplained events that occur almost daily keep this story from ever getting too heavy and I loved that.
The longing, the miscommunication, the almost insane set of circumstances that drove both Lanie and Nick to each other, make for the perfect journey of two people who didn't know what they wanted in life but somehow found it in the very small town of Charmed. It's a tale that is a true joy to read and one that made me smile. I look forward to more from this crazy cast of characters and getting to find out the secrets Carmen has been harboring all these years with respect to her own long lost love in Sully.
A book that is bound to make you all warm and happy inside, this one gets a solid 5 stars from me.
I adored the slow burn. The wondering of whether or not these two would come to their senses and realize they have true feelings for each other. Their day to day, living a lie as husband and wife, was at times so poignant. Both Lanie and Nick letting down their guards, letting another person into their lonely worlds. The pangs of jealousy at high school boyfriends or long lost ex-wives, I loved their reactions and the way they fit so perfectly together as if they'd known each other all their lives.
There is also great humor in the form of an orphaned dog named Ralph and the ever-present spirit aka Aunt Ruby. The wit and unexplained events that occur almost daily keep this story from ever getting too heavy and I loved that.
The longing, the miscommunication, the almost insane set of circumstances that drove both Lanie and Nick to each other, make for the perfect journey of two people who didn't know what they wanted in life but somehow found it in the very small town of Charmed. It's a tale that is a true joy to read and one that made me smile. I look forward to more from this crazy cast of characters and getting to find out the secrets Carmen has been harboring all these years with respect to her own long lost love in Sully.
A book that is bound to make you all warm and happy inside, this one gets a solid 5 stars from me.
April 17, 2017
A really cute small town romance from a new to me author!This is the first book of Sharla Lovelace's that I am reading and it was a wonderful experience!The premise is not something that we haven't seen before, but the way it is written and the characters make it very interesting.
Lanie had just spun the story of a fake marriage to make her dying aunt happy, but it looks like she wants her to prove it from beyond the grave too.According to her aunt's will, in order to inherit the house that is the only home she ever had, she'll have to stay there with her husband for three months happily, or watch it go into the hands of her selfish cousin.
Then there is Nick, who desperately needs money to send his daughter to art school.When he gets roped into playing Lanie's husband for the will reading, they're both surprised by the stipulations.And it looks like they're stuck between a rock and hard place.Lol! ;)
I loved how the relationship between Lanie and Nick was beautifully developed stage by stage.It didn't feel rushed at all.And the chemistry between them was also really good!The book had romance mixed in with humor and a little drama.But it didn't have much angst which I was thankful for.
Lanie's aunt was a really clever woman and I admire her!The things she thought of!Lol!You'll have to read the book to find out!
All in all it was a cute fake marriage story that turns into a beautiful romance.I suggest you give this one a try if you're looking for something to relax and enjoy!
April 21, 2017
•Games
What a great start to a cute but still steamy and funny romance building story. I couldn't help but laugh at parts throughout, but I also cried due to the emotion in this story. I absolutely loved it. As this was my first Sharla Lovelace book, she's already got me hooked and anxiously waiting for LUCKY CHARMED (Charmed in Texas Book #2). I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours through NetGalley for an honest blog tour review. Due to sexual situations, this book is recommended for readers 16 and older.
Favorite Passages ~
~ “Love is messy. It’s up and down and everywhere. Don’t try to make sense of it or understand it, it makes no sense. I’ve never understood anything in my whole life and I’m the happiest person in the world.”
~ “There’s no such thing as almost. If you get to almost, it’s done in your head.”
~ “Don’t waste time being jealous, my girl. You got the same pants to be glad in as anyone else.”
~ look at what I thought of first thing each morning and my last thoughts every night, and throw everything else away. All the rest was just noise, but those two things were worth diving off a cliff for.
~ “Don’t say anything you’ll have to apologize for later. Crow tastes like shit.”
~ “There’s gonna come a time when beauty fades and senses go. Your body goes to shit and all you’ve got is what comes out of your mouth. Make it amazing.”
~ “When you need me, Lanie girl, close your eyes. I might not be upward. But I’ll be there.”
What a great start to a cute but still steamy and funny romance building story. I couldn't help but laugh at parts throughout, but I also cried due to the emotion in this story. I absolutely loved it. As this was my first Sharla Lovelace book, she's already got me hooked and anxiously waiting for LUCKY CHARMED (Charmed in Texas Book #2). I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours through NetGalley for an honest blog tour review. Due to sexual situations, this book is recommended for readers 16 and older.
Favorite Passages ~
~ “Love is messy. It’s up and down and everywhere. Don’t try to make sense of it or understand it, it makes no sense. I’ve never understood anything in my whole life and I’m the happiest person in the world.”
~ “There’s no such thing as almost. If you get to almost, it’s done in your head.”
~ “Don’t waste time being jealous, my girl. You got the same pants to be glad in as anyone else.”
~ look at what I thought of first thing each morning and my last thoughts every night, and throw everything else away. All the rest was just noise, but those two things were worth diving off a cliff for.
~ “Don’t say anything you’ll have to apologize for later. Crow tastes like shit.”
~ “There’s gonna come a time when beauty fades and senses go. Your body goes to shit and all you’ve got is what comes out of your mouth. Make it amazing.”
~ “When you need me, Lanie girl, close your eyes. I might not be upward. But I’ll be there.”
April 20, 2017
Loved this small town romance. A little white lie that turns into true love. Lanie needs a husband and marriage certificate per her grandma's will or everything will go to her hungry cousins. She meets Nick at a diner, who is done on his luck and out of a job but is willing to become her stand in husband. Not expecting anything more, but soon the little lie becomes so much more.
Loved this small town with everything honey. Great characters with fun banter that will have you laughing out loud. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Loved this small town with everything honey. Great characters with fun banter that will have you laughing out loud. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 15, 2017
ARC Review: A Charmed Little Lie (Charmed In Texas) by Sharla Lovelace
A little white lie magnifies in this heartwarming and witty escapade of hope, faith and charity. A good heart lead Lanie to ease a dying woman's fears. Desperation leads her into the arms of the perfect man. Can a bit of divine intervention give her the happy ending she's been dreaming of? Nick and Lanie prove that if something is meant to be, nothing can stop it from happening. A Charmed Little Lie puts a smile in the heart while uplifting the spirit.
A little white lie magnifies in this heartwarming and witty escapade of hope, faith and charity. A good heart lead Lanie to ease a dying woman's fears. Desperation leads her into the arms of the perfect man. Can a bit of divine intervention give her the happy ending she's been dreaming of? Nick and Lanie prove that if something is meant to be, nothing can stop it from happening. A Charmed Little Lie puts a smile in the heart while uplifting the spirit.
July 4, 2019
This was cute, hilarious, and fun. Since it featured a small town, and two people who marry in order for the heroine to inherit her childhood home, I knew I had to read it. I loved Nick, the hero. He cooked, was funny, and generally a good guy. He was protective of Lanie, the heroine, too. As for Lanie, I thought she was funny, a nice person, and...not very good with feelings. This had me mad at her at some points, but she learned what she needed. Oh, and I loved Aunt Ruby. That woman knew what she was doing, for sure.
April 1, 2017
GREAT book!! This was a really fun, frustrating (at times), entrancing story. Two people (Laney & Nick) who have some major issues from their past to work through. I absolutely loved how these two met and were like fire & ice. I also hope Aunt Ruby shows up in other stories, she a real pisser!! Can't wait to get my hands on the next book!!
April 9, 2017
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
A cute story about a girl who weaves a complex lie to ease her aunt's mind about her being sad and lonely as she is dying. What she didn't plan on was her aunt being able to see through the lie and leaves instructions in her will that she must live with her "husband" for three months in order to receive the house she grew up in.
In an effort to save face and to keep her greedy cousins from getting what should been hers, Lanie Barrett begs a complete stranger to play house with her for three months. Nick McKane agrees because his daughter has been accepted to a fancy Art College and he wants to be able to send her there.
Its a little more complicated than that, but even with all the twists and turns, its a cute romance that worked for me.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
A cute story about a girl who weaves a complex lie to ease her aunt's mind about her being sad and lonely as she is dying. What she didn't plan on was her aunt being able to see through the lie and leaves instructions in her will that she must live with her "husband" for three months in order to receive the house she grew up in.
In an effort to save face and to keep her greedy cousins from getting what should been hers, Lanie Barrett begs a complete stranger to play house with her for three months. Nick McKane agrees because his daughter has been accepted to a fancy Art College and he wants to be able to send her there.
Its a little more complicated than that, but even with all the twists and turns, its a cute romance that worked for me.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
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