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Kowalski Family #10
What it Takes
Revisit all of your Kowalski favorites while falling in love with a brand-new romance in this reunion novel from New York Times bestselling author Shannon Stacey
Laney Caswell is looking for a change. A decade's worth of less-than-happy matrimony behind her, she wants peace—movies, books and, best of all, a new job at the Northern Star Lodge in Whitford, Maine. Spending the summer living in a camper is her chance to rediscover what makes her happy, and a perfect transition to her new life.
Being a paramedic in Whitford is nothing like Ben Rivers's city life, but when Josh Kowalski offers him the job, the lure of his hometown is too much to resist. Also too much to resist: Laney Caswell. Ben always thought he'd have a wife and kids, a happy family like the Kowalskis have all built, but he never made time in his life. Now he's found a woman who draws him like no other and helps him dream again—and the last thing she wants is a husband.
When the annual Kowalski family camping trip is moved to the Northern Star, both Ben and Laney are surrounded by the kind of happiness they've always wanted but never had. It just might be theirs—if they can put aside the past and reach for it together.
Laney Caswell is looking for a change. A decade's worth of less-than-happy matrimony behind her, she wants peace—movies, books and, best of all, a new job at the Northern Star Lodge in Whitford, Maine. Spending the summer living in a camper is her chance to rediscover what makes her happy, and a perfect transition to her new life.
Being a paramedic in Whitford is nothing like Ben Rivers's city life, but when Josh Kowalski offers him the job, the lure of his hometown is too much to resist. Also too much to resist: Laney Caswell. Ben always thought he'd have a wife and kids, a happy family like the Kowalskis have all built, but he never made time in his life. Now he's found a woman who draws him like no other and helps him dream again—and the last thing she wants is a husband.
When the annual Kowalski family camping trip is moved to the Northern Star, both Ben and Laney are surrounded by the kind of happiness they've always wanted but never had. It just might be theirs—if they can put aside the past and reach for it together.
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 28, 2017
66 people are currently reading
1214 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Stacey
145 books2,640 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her favorite activities are writing romance and really random tweets when she’s not riding her ATV. She loves mud, books, football & watching way too much TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
March 2, 2017
What it Takes is the tenth installment in Shannon Stacey's adult, contemporary romance series titled: Kowalski Family. This installment features a romance between two non-Kowalski's set in the Kowalski camping world...so not only do we get a fresh, outdoorsy romance, we also get a follow up on all the relationships readers have grown to love. This book was great. It was full of family, romance, relatable stressors, and all kinds of chaos on the trails. If you have been following Ms. Stacey's Kowalki Family up to this point, then pick up a copy of this tenth installment. If this series is new to you, I encourage you to start at the beginning and enjoy what is one of my favorite contemporary romance series to date. Check it out!
My favorite quote:
"And we also learned not to search for some words and phrases on the internet without some kind of porn filters on." "Mom!", Katie shook her head. "Please don't say porn again." "She said ball sack earlier", Kerry said. "I think that's worst." "I don't see why ball sack got eliminated for being two words but gang bang got to stay", Rosie grumbled. "I thought the worst part about being pregnant was throwing up and peeing all the time, but having to be sober while playing dirty scrabble with your mom is the worst part."
My favorite quote:
"And we also learned not to search for some words and phrases on the internet without some kind of porn filters on." "Mom!", Katie shook her head. "Please don't say porn again." "She said ball sack earlier", Kerry said. "I think that's worst." "I don't see why ball sack got eliminated for being two words but gang bang got to stay", Rosie grumbled. "I thought the worst part about being pregnant was throwing up and peeing all the time, but having to be sober while playing dirty scrabble with your mom is the worst part."
March 15, 2017
I’ve really enjoyed the Kowalski series over the years. I’ve not read the entire series, but several, especially those in the beginning. It’s a nice contemporary series – it makes me laugh, and the heroes and heroines are nice and a little dirty. A good combination.
This book has a stand alone romance but is also a reunion book. We meet Laney, whose cousin lives in Whitford, Main, the main gathering place for the Kowalski family. She is recently divorced and takes a job at the Northern Star Lodge as a camp keeper of sorts. She is going to keep an eye on the campground for the summer season and help clean the camping bathrooms, among other chores. She was married to a wealthy man who took away her personality and free spirit. All Laney wants to do is to live in her little camper for the summer and find herself again.
Ben moves to Whitford from the city and is a paramedic. He is a little surprised how…country…Whitford is. He loves the people, but the fire department and rescue is not quite what he is used to. The Lodge has incorporated ATV trails into it’s entertainment packages, and that means a lot of people taking advantage of this. Good money for the Lodge but also a lot of accidents. Ben gets his fair share of patching people up in this book. I really liked the inclusion of the ATVs in this book – it added a lot to the campground experience.
Ben has never been married and very attracted to Laney when they first meet. But he can tell she isn’t ready for a relationship so they become friends first. When the entire Kowalski clan comes up to the Lodge for a two-week family reunion, Laney and Ben are kept busy but start to fall in love.
The romance in this book is definitely not the most passionate, or memorable romance in a Kowalski book, but I didn’t mind it so much because I liked seeing the family reunion. It’s just a nice, easy book that made me smile and entertained me for a few hours. I would have liked a little more emphasis on their romance but what we get is cute.
We also get Sean and Emma’s point of view for some chapters and I love me some Sean!! (he is the post-it-notes guy from Yours to Keep – which is a SUPER cute book and you should read it). They have a minor side story.
If you are a fan of this series, definitely pick this one up. If you’ve never read this series, you should try one or two from the beginning.
Grade: B
This book has a stand alone romance but is also a reunion book. We meet Laney, whose cousin lives in Whitford, Main, the main gathering place for the Kowalski family. She is recently divorced and takes a job at the Northern Star Lodge as a camp keeper of sorts. She is going to keep an eye on the campground for the summer season and help clean the camping bathrooms, among other chores. She was married to a wealthy man who took away her personality and free spirit. All Laney wants to do is to live in her little camper for the summer and find herself again.
Ben moves to Whitford from the city and is a paramedic. He is a little surprised how…country…Whitford is. He loves the people, but the fire department and rescue is not quite what he is used to. The Lodge has incorporated ATV trails into it’s entertainment packages, and that means a lot of people taking advantage of this. Good money for the Lodge but also a lot of accidents. Ben gets his fair share of patching people up in this book. I really liked the inclusion of the ATVs in this book – it added a lot to the campground experience.
Ben has never been married and very attracted to Laney when they first meet. But he can tell she isn’t ready for a relationship so they become friends first. When the entire Kowalski clan comes up to the Lodge for a two-week family reunion, Laney and Ben are kept busy but start to fall in love.
The romance in this book is definitely not the most passionate, or memorable romance in a Kowalski book, but I didn’t mind it so much because I liked seeing the family reunion. It’s just a nice, easy book that made me smile and entertained me for a few hours. I would have liked a little more emphasis on their romance but what we get is cute.
We also get Sean and Emma’s point of view for some chapters and I love me some Sean!! (he is the post-it-notes guy from Yours to Keep – which is a SUPER cute book and you should read it). They have a minor side story.
If you are a fan of this series, definitely pick this one up. If you’ve never read this series, you should try one or two from the beginning.
Grade: B
November 24, 2017
Laney Caswell has left her ex-husband and her old life behind. She has a new job at the Northern Star Lodge and has vowed to just do things that will make her happy. Someone that makes her happy is Ben Rivers who has just moved back to his hometown to take a job as a paramedic. Laney and Ben hit it off right away, but she doesn't want to get into a serious relationship. This is just a summer fling until she decides exactly what she wants to do with her life. Ben may have other ideas about their relationship and what he wants in his future.
This is a continuation of Shannon Stacey's Kowalski family series. Laney is working at the Kowalski Lodge and Ben is best friends with Laney's boss, Josh Kowalski. The annual Kowalski camping trip is moved to the lodge this year. All of the characters from the previous books are back.
This was an enjoyable contemporary romance with no surprises. It's always fun to have the Kowalski family vacationing together, but this one wasn't as laugh-out-loud funny as the previous books in the series. My rating: 4 Stars.
This is a continuation of Shannon Stacey's Kowalski family series. Laney is working at the Kowalski Lodge and Ben is best friends with Laney's boss, Josh Kowalski. The annual Kowalski camping trip is moved to the lodge this year. All of the characters from the previous books are back.
This was an enjoyable contemporary romance with no surprises. It's always fun to have the Kowalski family vacationing together, but this one wasn't as laugh-out-loud funny as the previous books in the series. My rating: 4 Stars.
April 16, 2017
Kowalski family vacations 'of doom' are always entertaining and it's nice to see characters from previous books in the series but this book seemed to rehash everyone and their story. It was pretty slow going and the romance was kind of bland. Trying to find herself after a bad marriage, Laney lives in a camper and works as a helper at the lodge where she meets local paramedic Ben.
November 25, 2017
Ben and Laney's story shapes up around peeks of seeing where the Kowalski gang is since their books. If their story didn't involve the Kowalskis it could have been boiled down to a novella but then it wouldn't have made sense to be a part of the series without any Kowalskis around.
Fun small town romance listen.
Fun small town romance listen.
March 1, 2017
If you haven’t read any of Shannon Stacey’s Kowalski Family series, stop right now and go pick up the first book, Exclusively Yours, pronto. Any format will suffice, but just grab it and start it soon! I recommend the Kowalski Family series to first-time and veteran romance readers more than any other series, and for good reasons - it is a wonderfully written, joyful, small-town romance series that gives all the feels. So with that said, if you haven’t read the series, I really don’t recommend starting with What it Takes for a couple of reasons. First, this is a “reunion” book, bringing back all of the couples and characters from the previous nine titles. Their stories will be lost on someone who’s not read the series. Second, I feel this story is the weakest of the ten books, and therefore, not a great example of how wonderful this series truly is.
Now that I’ve gotten that out of the way, on to my review… What it Takes is a combination between the love story of Laney Caswell and Ben Rivers and reunion tour of the Kowalski family and friends from the first nine books in the series. Unfortunately, the book tries too hard to cover both storylines, leaving me not quite satisfied with either. I did enjoy my time back in Whitford, ME; however, I felt I had to work too hard to follow along all the going-ons, and frankly, I would have preferred a stronger romantic storyline instead of the reunion.
The book opens and closes strong, following the budding romance between Ben and Laney. Ben grew up in Whitford, and is friends with the gang. Now that Northern Star Lodge has become so popular with the 4-wheelers, Josh got the town to offer his friend a job as a paramedic helping on the trails when riders get injured. Laney recently finalized a drawn-out divorce. Now she's starting over in a camper at the Northern Star Lodge where she’s spending the summer helping out the growing business. Once the pair meets, there are sparks flying right from the start. I adore the couple’s awkwardness, especially their initial meeting when Laney takes care of Ben's cuts. The humor is spot on and exactly what I have come to expect from Ms. Stacey.
Just as the couple show signs of a romance, the Northern Star Lodge is overrun by the annual Kowalski Family Camping Trip (of doom), and the reader is treated to a rundown on every thing and everyone Kowalski. Additionally, there is a side story involving Emma and Sean (from Yours to Keep, one of my all-time favorite books!). While I loved seeing my favorite fictional family, I felt there was too much history from other books shared. The author spent a lot of time retelling the connections between the various characters and telling readers what everyone has been up to. As a fan of the series, having read each book (some more than once), it was redundant, and took away time that could have been spent on Ben and Laney’s romance.
Back to the romance, Ben and Laney make a great pair, once we get to see them spend some quality time alone. Laney is a strong woman, but she lacks the self-confidence needed to get on with her life after her divorce. She is so worried that she'll make life decisions based on pleasing others that she forgets to look into her own heart and discover what makes her happy. Her fears are understandable so it doesn't bother me when she pushes Ben away time and time again. However because there is so much scene time spent reacquainting readers with the Kowalskis, I felt it took away from any positive progress the couple made. And it’s just too bad because these two lonely people deserved a solid story.
With all that, I truly enjoyed my return to Whitford, ME, and catching up with the Kowalskis. The series is one of my favorites, mixing small town romance and humor; dishing out life lessons and love. While What It Takes has all the hallmark notes that makes the series so fabulous, I felt at times it was weighed down by the reunion aspect of the novel. Ben and Laney's romance often to a side or back seat to catching up with the families. It wasn't until the last 15% of the book that I finally felt a connection to the couple.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Now that I’ve gotten that out of the way, on to my review… What it Takes is a combination between the love story of Laney Caswell and Ben Rivers and reunion tour of the Kowalski family and friends from the first nine books in the series. Unfortunately, the book tries too hard to cover both storylines, leaving me not quite satisfied with either. I did enjoy my time back in Whitford, ME; however, I felt I had to work too hard to follow along all the going-ons, and frankly, I would have preferred a stronger romantic storyline instead of the reunion.
The book opens and closes strong, following the budding romance between Ben and Laney. Ben grew up in Whitford, and is friends with the gang. Now that Northern Star Lodge has become so popular with the 4-wheelers, Josh got the town to offer his friend a job as a paramedic helping on the trails when riders get injured. Laney recently finalized a drawn-out divorce. Now she's starting over in a camper at the Northern Star Lodge where she’s spending the summer helping out the growing business. Once the pair meets, there are sparks flying right from the start. I adore the couple’s awkwardness, especially their initial meeting when Laney takes care of Ben's cuts. The humor is spot on and exactly what I have come to expect from Ms. Stacey.
Just as the couple show signs of a romance, the Northern Star Lodge is overrun by the annual Kowalski Family Camping Trip (of doom), and the reader is treated to a rundown on every thing and everyone Kowalski. Additionally, there is a side story involving Emma and Sean (from Yours to Keep, one of my all-time favorite books!). While I loved seeing my favorite fictional family, I felt there was too much history from other books shared. The author spent a lot of time retelling the connections between the various characters and telling readers what everyone has been up to. As a fan of the series, having read each book (some more than once), it was redundant, and took away time that could have been spent on Ben and Laney’s romance.
Back to the romance, Ben and Laney make a great pair, once we get to see them spend some quality time alone. Laney is a strong woman, but she lacks the self-confidence needed to get on with her life after her divorce. She is so worried that she'll make life decisions based on pleasing others that she forgets to look into her own heart and discover what makes her happy. Her fears are understandable so it doesn't bother me when she pushes Ben away time and time again. However because there is so much scene time spent reacquainting readers with the Kowalskis, I felt it took away from any positive progress the couple made. And it’s just too bad because these two lonely people deserved a solid story.
With all that, I truly enjoyed my return to Whitford, ME, and catching up with the Kowalskis. The series is one of my favorites, mixing small town romance and humor; dishing out life lessons and love. While What It Takes has all the hallmark notes that makes the series so fabulous, I felt at times it was weighed down by the reunion aspect of the novel. Ben and Laney's romance often to a side or back seat to catching up with the families. It wasn't until the last 15% of the book that I finally felt a connection to the couple.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
March 17, 2017
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
What it Takes is a very back throw-back to the whole Kowalski series, and it was nice to see how all the cousins are holding up after all this time, while also meeting a brand-new couple on the camping ground.
What it Takes is a very back throw-back to the whole Kowalski series, and it was nice to see how all the cousins are holding up after all this time, while also meeting a brand-new couple on the camping ground.
January 29, 2018
There comes a point in one's life when there are just too many Kowalskis to keep track of.
November 26, 2017
This wasn't perfect, but it made me happy and that bumps it to 5 Stars for me! I loved getting another taste of the Kowalski Family of Doom! Add in a new love story and I was thrilled. Ben and Laney were great. She was awfully reluctant, but I understood where she was coming from. The ending was sweet and the epilogue was perfect! I only want more!
March 8, 2017
Seeing this book on Netgalley was a nice surprise, I had no idea it was coming out.
I loved the main characters and their story and even more I enjoyed reading about all the characters from the previous books in the series.
Great addition to the series!
I loved the main characters and their story and even more I enjoyed reading about all the characters from the previous books in the series.
Great addition to the series!
October 2, 2023
#10 (and final) in the Kowalski Family romance series
What a great idea to finish up this series with a family camping trip at the Northern Star Lodge, where it all started. It was a super way to revisit with everyone, spend some time in a familiar spot, as well as get to know Ben (local paramedic) and Laney (temp helper at the campground) as they begin a relationship. Ben and Laney are excellent characters, a little older (in their late 30's), with Laney (at least) a little gun shy about starting something new after her recent divorce. But the support of everyone around them, as well as beautiful examples of what a good marriage looks like, made the HEA inevitable. It was also interesting to hear about Ben's paramedic duties and some of his calls, especially in the woods. I always love family stories, and this series focuses on how close this family is. Loved the witty banter and the love shown for brothers, sisters, cousins, etc. Nice setting in a Maine campground, with ATV-ing as a popular hobby (which I believe is a favorite of Stacey's too). All in all, I couldn't wait to read this and had a hard time putting it down. One of these days I'm going to have to start at the beginning and read it all over again.
What a great idea to finish up this series with a family camping trip at the Northern Star Lodge, where it all started. It was a super way to revisit with everyone, spend some time in a familiar spot, as well as get to know Ben (local paramedic) and Laney (temp helper at the campground) as they begin a relationship. Ben and Laney are excellent characters, a little older (in their late 30's), with Laney (at least) a little gun shy about starting something new after her recent divorce. But the support of everyone around them, as well as beautiful examples of what a good marriage looks like, made the HEA inevitable. It was also interesting to hear about Ben's paramedic duties and some of his calls, especially in the woods. I always love family stories, and this series focuses on how close this family is. Loved the witty banter and the love shown for brothers, sisters, cousins, etc. Nice setting in a Maine campground, with ATV-ing as a popular hobby (which I believe is a favorite of Stacey's too). All in all, I couldn't wait to read this and had a hard time putting it down. One of these days I'm going to have to start at the beginning and read it all over again.
March 23, 2017
It's always fun knowing you're gonna see again characters you got to know and appreciate. The last time I read about the Kowalski was in 2013. Now they're back for their annual family camping trip (of doom ;p).
We have a new romance, mix with some moments with Sean's and Emma's POV. So why not the others? I'm sorry to say that Ben and Laney romance was too lukewarm for me and ended up being anticlimatic.
I think I would have preferred this book if the chapters were in different POV from several couples instead.
We have a new romance, mix with some moments with Sean's and Emma's POV. So why not the others? I'm sorry to say that Ben and Laney romance was too lukewarm for me and ended up being anticlimatic.
I think I would have preferred this book if the chapters were in different POV from several couples instead.
April 1, 2017
This book was a bit of a disappointment for me. I love the Kowalski books and this one just didn't feel the same.
Laney has just divorced her husband of ten years and has taken a job at the Northern Star Lodge, which is owned by one branch of the Kowalski family. Ben is a paramedic who has recently moved to Whitford. During the course of the book the other branch of the Kowalskis come to the lodge for the annual two week camping vacation (Of Doom). It was nice seeing all the characters together, but it detracted from Laney and Ben's romance. There were chapters from the point of view of previous characters and somehow they seemed to crowd out the romance between Laney and Ben. Unusually for a Shannon Stacey book, I never really felt the mental connection beyond the physical attraction both characters felt.
Still, she's a reliable writer and one small disappointment won't keep me from reading her other books.
Laney has just divorced her husband of ten years and has taken a job at the Northern Star Lodge, which is owned by one branch of the Kowalski family. Ben is a paramedic who has recently moved to Whitford. During the course of the book the other branch of the Kowalskis come to the lodge for the annual two week camping vacation (Of Doom). It was nice seeing all the characters together, but it detracted from Laney and Ben's romance. There were chapters from the point of view of previous characters and somehow they seemed to crowd out the romance between Laney and Ben. Unusually for a Shannon Stacey book, I never really felt the mental connection beyond the physical attraction both characters felt.
Still, she's a reliable writer and one small disappointment won't keep me from reading her other books.
August 6, 2018
qua verhaal verdient dit boek zeker 4 sterren. Het is gewoon leuk om eens te lezen hoe het na al die jaren verder gaat met de familie.
Maar dan bots je toch opnieuw op wel heel veel vertaalfouten, verkeerde sinsconstructies en leeftijden van kinderen die niet kunnen kloppen. Dat is wel heel jammer, want soms echt storend in het boek.
Maar dan bots je toch opnieuw op wel heel veel vertaalfouten, verkeerde sinsconstructies en leeftijden van kinderen die niet kunnen kloppen. Dat is wel heel jammer, want soms echt storend in het boek.
June 2, 2019
the last of the Kowalskis! l loved them so much and Ben and Laney were a perfect end to the series.
March 14, 2017
I was super excited to get a Kowalski vacation of doom. The Kowalski family series is one of my favorite ever. I loved getting to spend time with the entire family, and seeing how the family has grown since the last book. I will say if you haven't read the rest of the series, you will be lost with all the family dynamics if you try and start with this story. I highly suggest starting with the first book in the series, Exclusively Yours.
With all the members of the Kowalski clan in one book, there was lots going on and I'll admit it was hard to keep up with the growing family at times, but I loved every minute with them. What It Takes also had a budding romance between Laney and Ben. While I liked both Laney and Ben as individuals, I had trouble with them as a couple for most of the book. Ben and Laney didn't seem to be on the same page to start a relationship. Laney had just ended her marriage and not ready for anything serious, while Ben was at the point in his life that he was ready for a serious relationship. I thought Laney and Ben had great chemistry, but had trouble buying into them as a couple for the majority of the book. I did love that Laney received immediate acceptance into the Kowalski family, which was so nice as her own parents didn't support her decision to divorce her ex-husband. I also loved that Ben's family also accepted Laney so quickly.
I did end up liking Ben and Laney as a couple by the end of the book. I think since there was so much focus on the Kowalski family, their story took a bit of a backseat at times and it took me until until the last 20% of the story to really become invested in their relationship.
Rating: 3.5 Stars (B-)
Review copy provided by publisher
With all the members of the Kowalski clan in one book, there was lots going on and I'll admit it was hard to keep up with the growing family at times, but I loved every minute with them. What It Takes also had a budding romance between Laney and Ben. While I liked both Laney and Ben as individuals, I had trouble with them as a couple for most of the book. Ben and Laney didn't seem to be on the same page to start a relationship. Laney had just ended her marriage and not ready for anything serious, while Ben was at the point in his life that he was ready for a serious relationship. I thought Laney and Ben had great chemistry, but had trouble buying into them as a couple for the majority of the book. I did love that Laney received immediate acceptance into the Kowalski family, which was so nice as her own parents didn't support her decision to divorce her ex-husband. I also loved that Ben's family also accepted Laney so quickly.
I did end up liking Ben and Laney as a couple by the end of the book. I think since there was so much focus on the Kowalski family, their story took a bit of a backseat at times and it took me until until the last 20% of the story to really become invested in their relationship.
Rating: 3.5 Stars (B-)
Review copy provided by publisher
March 5, 2017
There are too many characters in one book, make u head spin n u need time to remember what they have been through, the families here n there, two brothers now grandpa, then siblings growth up without mother but have a nice lady with excellent baking skills.
Now it has thrived generation, kids all around, someone expecting, this is the life our city guy looking for, peace, quiet n simple with love.
Now it has thrived generation, kids all around, someone expecting, this is the life our city guy looking for, peace, quiet n simple with love.
February 20, 2017
This was a fun quick read about a family ( the Kowalski's) written about in many previous books by Shannon Stacey. I have read all the books and so really enjoyed this one. Although there were new characters as the main H/h, Ms. Stacey did a very good job incorporating them into the regular Kowalski family. If you haven't read any of the previous books, this is still a fun standalone and it may get you into the mood to read the others. I have always enjoyed Ms.Stacey's writing and her obvious love for this family makes this a good small town contemporary romance! Thanks as always to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book for an honest review.
July 13, 2017
other reviews at www.readingtsinoy.blogspot.com
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I have read all the books in the Kowalski series and of the ten, I still love the first five the most.
Technically, the protagonist in this story is no Kowalski, so this is not so much a Kowalski story as it is that of the neighbor and close friend of the family. However, the Kowalskis are still prominently represented as the setting of the romance takes place in the family owned Northern Star Lodge.
Ben has moved back to Whitford where he grew up to serve as a much needed paramedic. He often goes to the lodge to visit and help around, especially after he meets Laney, the newly hired extra hand. Laney has been through one hell of a divorce from a husband who loved being in control of everything and everyone. She had lost herself and is now in the process of finding who she once was and who she wants to be again. Falling in love wasn’t part of the plan, but then again, it never is.
The plot is something we have all read a lot I’m sure and with books like this, it’s really all about the execution. Stacey’s storytelling is good, however for some reason, I didn’t feel connected to the characters as much as I expected to be. Maybe because I was overwhelmed by the number of characters in the book that I was sometimes confused. But then again that’s WHY it’s called a Kowalski reunion. All the main characters in the previous books are here plus their offsprings…. That’s a lot of names and stories to look back on.
It did thrill me to, in a way, reconnect with those whose stories I fell in love with before, but it also distracted me from the love story of Ben and Laney. And at some points, it felt like I was being hurried through the book, as if Stacey just wanted to get it over and done with. Despite this, I did like the book and would still recommend it especially to those who have missed the crazy family that is the Kowalskis.
follow me on IG and Twitter: @lynching7
I have read all the books in the Kowalski series and of the ten, I still love the first five the most.
Technically, the protagonist in this story is no Kowalski, so this is not so much a Kowalski story as it is that of the neighbor and close friend of the family. However, the Kowalskis are still prominently represented as the setting of the romance takes place in the family owned Northern Star Lodge.
Ben has moved back to Whitford where he grew up to serve as a much needed paramedic. He often goes to the lodge to visit and help around, especially after he meets Laney, the newly hired extra hand. Laney has been through one hell of a divorce from a husband who loved being in control of everything and everyone. She had lost herself and is now in the process of finding who she once was and who she wants to be again. Falling in love wasn’t part of the plan, but then again, it never is.
The plot is something we have all read a lot I’m sure and with books like this, it’s really all about the execution. Stacey’s storytelling is good, however for some reason, I didn’t feel connected to the characters as much as I expected to be. Maybe because I was overwhelmed by the number of characters in the book that I was sometimes confused. But then again that’s WHY it’s called a Kowalski reunion. All the main characters in the previous books are here plus their offsprings…. That’s a lot of names and stories to look back on.
It did thrill me to, in a way, reconnect with those whose stories I fell in love with before, but it also distracted me from the love story of Ben and Laney. And at some points, it felt like I was being hurried through the book, as if Stacey just wanted to get it over and done with. Despite this, I did like the book and would still recommend it especially to those who have missed the crazy family that is the Kowalskis.
March 6, 2017
4.5☆
This was an extremely enjoyable story. That drew me in from the very start and kept me engaged and entertained throughout.
I have to say though I really wasn't expecting a new love story with new characters intermixed with the reunion of the entire Kowalski family. Yet it worked and it was great catching up with characters I have read and enjoyed previously. Although the focus was really on Sean and his wife Emma and their adorable little boy Johnny and of course the Kowalski's who live at the Northern Star and in Whitford where this story is set.
As for the new characters Ben and Laney I really liked them both. They fit in really well with the Kowalski clan and the overall story. They also worked well as a couple, definitely shared chemistry and the progression of their relationship was well paced.
As for the actual story it was very sweet, quick, and extremely easy to read. It also had no angst and I would certainly recommend it to others. Especially fans of the author and the Kowalski series itself.
This was an extremely enjoyable story. That drew me in from the very start and kept me engaged and entertained throughout.
I have to say though I really wasn't expecting a new love story with new characters intermixed with the reunion of the entire Kowalski family. Yet it worked and it was great catching up with characters I have read and enjoyed previously. Although the focus was really on Sean and his wife Emma and their adorable little boy Johnny and of course the Kowalski's who live at the Northern Star and in Whitford where this story is set.
As for the new characters Ben and Laney I really liked them both. They fit in really well with the Kowalski clan and the overall story. They also worked well as a couple, definitely shared chemistry and the progression of their relationship was well paced.
As for the actual story it was very sweet, quick, and extremely easy to read. It also had no angst and I would certainly recommend it to others. Especially fans of the author and the Kowalski series itself.
November 20, 2018
This one is about Laney and Ben. Neither is a Kowalski, but Laney goes to work at the Northern Star after going through a rather nasty divorce in Connecticut. Ben grew up in Whitfield, moved away, and came back. Sean Kowalski was his best friend growing up. He returned as a paramedic. He and Laney met at the Northern Star. He is looking for a longterm relationship. She is not. They are immediately attracted to each other. Naturally, they ended up with a really nice HEA. I enjoyed reading this one. It kept me interested and entertained.
February 28, 2017
I was so excited when I found out that there was going to be a new book in the Kowalskis!
It's been a while since I last read this series (and I just realized I never did finish Max's book...). I enjoyed reading how Ben and Laney fell in love, and it's such a great feeling to be reunited with this big family again.
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Netgalley.
It's been a while since I last read this series (and I just realized I never did finish Max's book...). I enjoyed reading how Ben and Laney fell in love, and it's such a great feeling to be reunited with this big family again.
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Netgalley.
April 12, 2019
It’s been a over 2 years since I’ve visited with the Kowalski family. And that’s just too darn long. The funny thing is, I thought I had read this book…kinda. I finished off what was the last book of the series at the time, Falling For Max, just weeks before this story was published. I was on a waiting list for the title through my e-library, but must have somehow gotten bumped off that list. My wait time had been several months so it slipped my mind. Then, I somehow just assumed I had read it already since it was no longer on my list. I’m so glad I realized my error and got my paws on this story.
This story had a lot going on, with the Kowalski’s all converging on the Lodge for their annual reunion trip. But it never really felt overwhelming. Now, that’s coming from someone who read all the books so take that with a grain of salt if you’re new to this series. It’s a great series so go ahead and start from the top! You can probably still enjoy this story as a standalone, but won’t get as much from it as I did.
The main characters, Laney and Ben, are neither Kowalski’s or (technically) family. That doesn’t matter. In fact, Laney finds a connection and acceptance that she never got with her own family. That connection helps her to heal from a bad marriage and nasty divorce.
Ben has a wonderful family, but has lived away from home for many years and never really found “the one” to settle down with. He’s not a playboy and isn’t a commitment-phobe. In fact, he dreams of having a family of his own someday.
There’s instant chemistry with Ben and Laney. With Ben looking for his HEA and Laney wanting to find herself after years of losing who she really is in her marriage, they have some obstacles to overcome. As much as Ben knows Laney may break his heart and Laney knows her heart will be captured by Ben, they can’t seem to stay away from each other. They ground each other in a way no other person ever has. Their bond is extremely heart warming and gave me all the feels.
I always enjoy Shannon Stacey’s stories, and this one is no exception. She is a wonder at blending chemistry, heartache, and humor.
This review can also be found at All In Good Time.
This story had a lot going on, with the Kowalski’s all converging on the Lodge for their annual reunion trip. But it never really felt overwhelming. Now, that’s coming from someone who read all the books so take that with a grain of salt if you’re new to this series. It’s a great series so go ahead and start from the top! You can probably still enjoy this story as a standalone, but won’t get as much from it as I did.
The main characters, Laney and Ben, are neither Kowalski’s or (technically) family. That doesn’t matter. In fact, Laney finds a connection and acceptance that she never got with her own family. That connection helps her to heal from a bad marriage and nasty divorce.
Ben has a wonderful family, but has lived away from home for many years and never really found “the one” to settle down with. He’s not a playboy and isn’t a commitment-phobe. In fact, he dreams of having a family of his own someday.
There’s instant chemistry with Ben and Laney. With Ben looking for his HEA and Laney wanting to find herself after years of losing who she really is in her marriage, they have some obstacles to overcome. As much as Ben knows Laney may break his heart and Laney knows her heart will be captured by Ben, they can’t seem to stay away from each other. They ground each other in a way no other person ever has. Their bond is extremely heart warming and gave me all the feels.
I always enjoy Shannon Stacey’s stories, and this one is no exception. She is a wonder at blending chemistry, heartache, and humor.
This review can also be found at All In Good Time.
February 26, 2017
As someone who has read all previous “nine” books of this series by Shannon Stacey, it goes without saying I’m obviously a Kowalski family fan. With publishing dates ranging from 2010 - 2014, I read and thoroughly enjoyed each and every one shortly after their initial release date. However, likely because too much time and too many books have passed through my hands since then, I felt as overwhelmed as Laney did when they all converged together for a family reunion/camping trip at the Kowalski owned/operated lodge. I vaguely recognized names but my memory was foggy on most of these stand-alone romantic tale characters. That’s likely why I didn’t find myself particularly engaged when individual monologues took the reins of the story in several subsequent chapters for quite some time.
Unless you are the author or are a “trekkie” type fan of this series, I think what it takes to enjoy Book 10 is to have recently just read the entire series back to back, or at the very least reread each book synopsis to reacquaint yourself with what will be a long list of sub-characters in this book. You see, though the storyline started off with a “not looking for love” recently divorced heroine, Laney, and Ben, a pushing 40 good guy paramedic hero who’s decided he’s been alone long enough, their romance seemed to be pushed aside for a large portion of the book. Admittedly, Laney was so reluctant to get involved with Ben, because she needed her world to revolve only around herself to the point I felt sorry for Ben who was pining for her, it likely didn’t matter overly much. Btw, the reason she divorced her husband of ten years wasn’t cheating or physical abuse.
When the Kowalski clan finally cleared out, it was like a switch was flipped, and the main couple got back to not being a couple. At least that is what Laney kept telling herself. Ben was such a sweet guy and fell for Laney pretty quickly, and it took her a long time to even consider the possibility of them dating.
How was the writing? Maybe it was just me but parts of it felt overly long and had too many details. Whether it be the never ending list of Kowalski relatives, family, and friends...and who owned what...who knew who...who was best friends with who...or the townspeople details...or more info than I wanted or needed about rock climbing, riding an ATV, etc. Goodness, at one point the hero explained why he enjoyed using a Koozie, to keep the condensation from running down the can into his cup holder. I openly admit I have a one track mind. I pretty much zero in on the main couple and get overly impatient when my romantic read has taken a turn away from romance. I did enjoy Ben and Laney when they actually were scripted scenes together.
What was the passion meter? At 34% they had their first kiss but had actually spent very little time together. Overall, in general, it took a long time to tell this romantic tale due to the constant sub-content interruptions. Even after some very steamy, smexy time together, Laney still wasn’t letting go of her “not ready to date yet” stance. Slowly but surely they were becoming a couple. She just didn’t want to recognize it was happening. When she finally did, you had better not blink, because it came across very rushed.
Here’s to hoping others really enjoy this one. For me, I would have preferred the individual monologues to have been left out, and the characters just worked in. Ben was by far my favorite aspect of this book. It has been a long time since I’ve come across such a sweet book boyfriend. Laney almost let him get away, folks. Lucky for her he was really into her.
I do recommend reading each individual book, if you like sweet, romantic reads with some steaminess. But just like most family gatherings, sometimes it is just overwhelming to have everyone under the same roof at the same time. I felt this storyline got overly crowded, as well.
Title: What It Takes, Series: Kowalski Family (Book 10), Author: Shannon Stacey, Pages: 352, stand-alone but part of a series, no cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama, reluctant to love divorced heroine, pining for her hero trying not to let it show, lots of monologues by sub-characters, rushed/sweet ending, a few VERY steamy scenes.
(This review is based on advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased, fair review. No compensation was provided to this reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher/NetGalley.)
Unless you are the author or are a “trekkie” type fan of this series, I think what it takes to enjoy Book 10 is to have recently just read the entire series back to back, or at the very least reread each book synopsis to reacquaint yourself with what will be a long list of sub-characters in this book. You see, though the storyline started off with a “not looking for love” recently divorced heroine, Laney, and Ben, a pushing 40 good guy paramedic hero who’s decided he’s been alone long enough, their romance seemed to be pushed aside for a large portion of the book. Admittedly, Laney was so reluctant to get involved with Ben, because she needed her world to revolve only around herself to the point I felt sorry for Ben who was pining for her, it likely didn’t matter overly much. Btw, the reason she divorced her husband of ten years wasn’t cheating or physical abuse.
When the Kowalski clan finally cleared out, it was like a switch was flipped, and the main couple got back to not being a couple. At least that is what Laney kept telling herself. Ben was such a sweet guy and fell for Laney pretty quickly, and it took her a long time to even consider the possibility of them dating.
How was the writing? Maybe it was just me but parts of it felt overly long and had too many details. Whether it be the never ending list of Kowalski relatives, family, and friends...and who owned what...who knew who...who was best friends with who...or the townspeople details...or more info than I wanted or needed about rock climbing, riding an ATV, etc. Goodness, at one point the hero explained why he enjoyed using a Koozie, to keep the condensation from running down the can into his cup holder. I openly admit I have a one track mind. I pretty much zero in on the main couple and get overly impatient when my romantic read has taken a turn away from romance. I did enjoy Ben and Laney when they actually were scripted scenes together.
What was the passion meter? At 34% they had their first kiss but had actually spent very little time together. Overall, in general, it took a long time to tell this romantic tale due to the constant sub-content interruptions. Even after some very steamy, smexy time together, Laney still wasn’t letting go of her “not ready to date yet” stance. Slowly but surely they were becoming a couple. She just didn’t want to recognize it was happening. When she finally did, you had better not blink, because it came across very rushed.
Here’s to hoping others really enjoy this one. For me, I would have preferred the individual monologues to have been left out, and the characters just worked in. Ben was by far my favorite aspect of this book. It has been a long time since I’ve come across such a sweet book boyfriend. Laney almost let him get away, folks. Lucky for her he was really into her.
I do recommend reading each individual book, if you like sweet, romantic reads with some steaminess. But just like most family gatherings, sometimes it is just overwhelming to have everyone under the same roof at the same time. I felt this storyline got overly crowded, as well.
Title: What It Takes, Series: Kowalski Family (Book 10), Author: Shannon Stacey, Pages: 352, stand-alone but part of a series, no cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama, reluctant to love divorced heroine, pining for her hero trying not to let it show, lots of monologues by sub-characters, rushed/sweet ending, a few VERY steamy scenes.
(This review is based on advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased, fair review. No compensation was provided to this reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and author/publisher/NetGalley.)
October 4, 2018
Even though I haven't read/listened to any of the other NINE books in this series, I still enjoyed listening to What it Takes. Shannon Stacey continues to impress me with her ability to write witty dialogue and compelling storylines about likable, relatable characters.
The book is also an excellent example of what I like about reading the stories of older couples. Ben is kind and patient, and knows what he wants - a wife and children. He's not resisting the pull to start a family.
Laney has just left a marriage of 10 years, during which her husband told her what to do and when to do it. Now that she has her freedom, she wants to spend the summer getting to know who she is and what she wants. When she meets Ben, she realizes the chemistry between them is impossible to resist, but she's not willing to give into those desires and deny herself the chance to be her own person.
After spending the summer together, Ben finally lays his cards on the table. He loves her, wants to be with her, but he can't continue with things the way they are. He wants more and feels it's time for them to make the decision to either move forward or end things. It takes a couple weeks for Laney to realize you can be who you are - and encouraged in that - if you're with a good man. And Ben is a really good man.
Like I said, I hadn't read any of the other Kowalski family books, but it didn't really matter. If I didn't have SO MANY OTHER BOOKS I'm wanting to read right now, I'd totally dive into this series. And I'm really bummed my local library doesn't have any more of Shannon Stacey's audiobooks available, because listening to her books has made cleaning and excercising so much more enjoyable!
The book is also an excellent example of what I like about reading the stories of older couples. Ben is kind and patient, and knows what he wants - a wife and children. He's not resisting the pull to start a family.
Laney has just left a marriage of 10 years, during which her husband told her what to do and when to do it. Now that she has her freedom, she wants to spend the summer getting to know who she is and what she wants. When she meets Ben, she realizes the chemistry between them is impossible to resist, but she's not willing to give into those desires and deny herself the chance to be her own person.
After spending the summer together, Ben finally lays his cards on the table. He loves her, wants to be with her, but he can't continue with things the way they are. He wants more and feels it's time for them to make the decision to either move forward or end things. It takes a couple weeks for Laney to realize you can be who you are - and encouraged in that - if you're with a good man. And Ben is a really good man.
Like I said, I hadn't read any of the other Kowalski family books, but it didn't really matter. If I didn't have SO MANY OTHER BOOKS I'm wanting to read right now, I'd totally dive into this series. And I'm really bummed my local library doesn't have any more of Shannon Stacey's audiobooks available, because listening to her books has made cleaning and excercising so much more enjoyable!
July 7, 2017
What It Takes by Shannon Stacey was like attending the Kowalski Family Reunion. Friends and Family of this dynamic series has captured the readers hearts and made them a part of a fictional family.
I highly recommend this book but will say it is not a stand alone novel. Readers must be familiar with the Kowalski family and friends to fully appreciate this book. I loved that Shannon featured two older characters who needed the Kowalski family in their lives.
Ben and Laney have both had very different lives before they found each other in Whitford, Maine. Laney is finding herself once again after a very degrading marriage. Ben has returned home to Whitford after spending years in the big city. Ben and Laney are drawn to one another and develop a friendship that leads to them finding what was missing in their former lives. They find love and acceptance with the help of their good friends, the Kowalski's.
I thoroughly enjoyed revisiting the Kowalski world.
January 29, 2018
I won this book as a FirstRead.
After 10 years of her now ex-husband trying to make Laney fit his expectations of her, Laney is looking forward to discovering herself while working at Northern Star Lodge for the summer. Ben Rivers has recently returned to Whitford, Maine, after working as a paramedic in the city for years. He and Laney are instantly attracted to each other, but he wants a family, while she is not ready for another relationship.
This is the tenth book of the Kowalski family series. You can read this book without having read the others in the series, but there is a Kowalski family reunion, and it might be hard to keep all the names straight. There were a few sections from Sean and Emma's point of view, and not having read the rest of the series, I just kept waiting for those to be over so we could get back to Ben and Laney.
Overall, this was a cute small-town romance. If small-town romances are your thing, check out this book!
After 10 years of her now ex-husband trying to make Laney fit his expectations of her, Laney is looking forward to discovering herself while working at Northern Star Lodge for the summer. Ben Rivers has recently returned to Whitford, Maine, after working as a paramedic in the city for years. He and Laney are instantly attracted to each other, but he wants a family, while she is not ready for another relationship.
This is the tenth book of the Kowalski family series. You can read this book without having read the others in the series, but there is a Kowalski family reunion, and it might be hard to keep all the names straight. There were a few sections from Sean and Emma's point of view, and not having read the rest of the series, I just kept waiting for those to be over so we could get back to Ben and Laney.
Overall, this was a cute small-town romance. If small-town romances are your thing, check out this book!
April 11, 2019
I loved this series so much and this was the perfect ending for it. Lainey and Ben are so fun. I loved how respectful Ben was toward Lainey as she took her time finding herself and figuring out what she wanted for her life. I love how passionate Ben was about his job, his family, and Lainey and how much he worked to be what she needed at each moment. I loved how Lainey developed and really embraced the things that made her happy.
It was also so nice to see all the Kowalski family members and their friends pop back up. I loved catching up with all of them and seeing how their lives had progressed since their respective books.
I'm going to miss this family and their community. I'll miss the movie nights, the gossip from Fran, hearing what Rosie is baking, and hearing what the special is at the dinner. Mostly I'll miss how warm, friendly, supportive, and fun these characters, and all the books, have been.
It was also so nice to see all the Kowalski family members and their friends pop back up. I loved catching up with all of them and seeing how their lives had progressed since their respective books.
I'm going to miss this family and their community. I'll miss the movie nights, the gossip from Fran, hearing what Rosie is baking, and hearing what the special is at the dinner. Mostly I'll miss how warm, friendly, supportive, and fun these characters, and all the books, have been.
February 10, 2017
Ben is a paramedic. He’s recently moved back home to Whitford, Maine, where he knows pretty much everyone, and they know him. One exception is Laney, a recent addition to the area. She’s divorced and trying to find herself. She works at the Northern Star Lodge and Campground, and she’s given herself the summer to get it all together. When Ben and Laney meet, the sparks fly. It’s great!!!
This is a reunion novel for all of us who love the Kowalski’s. Shannon Stacey has created a wonderful world where camping and family are fun, even through life’s challenges. We get to catch up with our favorite characters in this series, and we get to know Ben and Laney. Even if you don’t know the Kowalski’s, you will enjoy this story. And then you’ll want to get to know the Kowalski’s, too! I really enjoyed this book!
This is a reunion novel for all of us who love the Kowalski’s. Shannon Stacey has created a wonderful world where camping and family are fun, even through life’s challenges. We get to catch up with our favorite characters in this series, and we get to know Ben and Laney. Even if you don’t know the Kowalski’s, you will enjoy this story. And then you’ll want to get to know the Kowalski’s, too! I really enjoyed this book!
October 18, 2017
This was a great last book for this series. I have read all the books in this series but it has been several years since I have read the first nine books in this series. I didn't feel lost, so I would say this could be read as a standalone. This final book in the Kowalski family series involved a romance between two people that are not Kowalski s. Laney just divorced her husband after 10 years of marriage. She has committed to spending the summer sleeping in a small camper and helping out at the campground and the Lodge. Ben has moved back to his hometown and he will be working as a paramedic. He is friends with many members of the Kowalski family so he spends a lot of time at their campgrounds and Lodge. Laney wasn't going to start a new relationship so soon after her divorce she wanted to discover what she wanted to do without having someone tell her what she wants to do.
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