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Cottonbloom #3.5
Candy Cane Christmas
A very Cottonbloom Christmas! Jeremy Whitehurst has tried to leave his bad-boy behavior and tarnished image behind in Alabama for a fresh start in Cottonbloom, Louisiana. Unfortunately, trouble has dogged him across state lines. Stepping up and protecting a young woman from her abusive boyfriend earned him a beat-down and got him fired. Although the thanks in the girl’s dark eyes made it all worth it, he recognizes she’s just a different kind of trouble. A trouble he’s not sure he can stay away from. One rebellious summer dented Kayla Redmond’s carefree innocence. Now her focus is on completing her associate’s degree for bookkeeping, and no one is going to derail her plans. Unfortunately, her job at Fournette Brothers Designs puts her in the path of the one man who has seen her at her worst, yet his blue eyes don’t judge her. He sees beyond the brokenness inside of her and rouses her wild side once more. But, that’s what got her in trouble in the first place. Christmas is coming and Kayla’s ready to forgive herself and take a chance. But the holiday has only ever brought heartache to Jeremy. No Christmas miracle kept his mother clean or out of jail. Will one reckless night and some time spent in the back of a cop car be the best present Jeremy’s ever been given?
90 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2016
13 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
Laura Trentham
43 books912 followersAuthor of smart, sexy Southern contemporary romance, Regency historicals, & heartfelt Women's Fiction
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 25, 2016
What a sweet little Holiday story this was.
Jeremy Whitehurst has left his troubled past and bad boy ways behind him in Alabama. Now working as a mechanic in Cottonbloom, Louisiana he lives a quiet and low-key lifestyle that suits him just fine.
Kayla Redmond has made more than her fair share of bad decisions. Getting involved with an abusive man left her hurting and guarding her heart. Now all she is focused on is her future as a bookkeeper. Fate has other plans for Kayla when her new job at Fournette Brothers Designs places her right in the path of the man who saved her from her abusive ex.
With Christmas fast, approaching can these two damaged and weary souls find the strength to take a chance on love again??
I adored this novella. It's SUPER short but packed with sweet moments and tons of feel good moments. Both characters were likable. The writing was fantastic and flowed nicely. It had a nice cast of side characters (this was my first Cottonbloom book, but won't be my last.) I wasn't lost reading this one, but I assume you get more background on these two characters in the full-length novels about the other characters. In fact (IMO) this one would have made a great full-length novel.
My only small complaint is that I wish it would have had a better epilogue. Perhaps we will hear more about this couple in future books? Overall, though, a fantastic Holiday novella to add to your "TO READ" list.
October 18, 2016
4.5 - "Come on in out of the cold." Stars!
I have absolutely adored everything 'Cottonbloom' that Laura Trentham has released this year, so being given an added treat for Christmas, just rounded off this series perfectly for me.
Jeremy Whitehurst is a character that I have known since the Falcon Football series, and he has come a long way since those books, it was great to see him on occasion through the course of the Cottonbloom stories, and I am happy that Laura was given the opportunity to give him and Kayla their own happily ever after. My one gripe - (and it’s a small one) I really think this story had the legs in it to be a bit longer.
It had been years since he’d felt carefree. But being around her made him feel… alive.
This was a quick read, but it delivered on the emotions and feelings really well. If you have read the previous books you will remember Kayla as she featured quite a bit in Kiss Me That Way as a young woman with a few personal demons. Things have changed for her since, and we are now looking at a woman on the cusp of independence, dealing with feelings for a man who is more closed off to the prospect of a relationship than she is… initially anyway.
Kayla was the hair pin curve in his straight and narrow path.
I have a huge soft spot for any guy that rolls over and shows his belly in the course of a developing relationship with a woman, especially when he is perceived to be a bad boy, to then show a side of sweet and vulnerable, just grabs me by the heartstrings, and Jeremy was all that, described in a very tasty package.
"I know you. I know this is going to work out."
Love it, have loved this series, Laura Trentham was my Summer 2016 hit this year with the books releasing over those few short warm months, Cottonbloom feels a little like home now. I cannot wait too read more from her in 2017!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
I have absolutely adored everything 'Cottonbloom' that Laura Trentham has released this year, so being given an added treat for Christmas, just rounded off this series perfectly for me.
Jeremy Whitehurst is a character that I have known since the Falcon Football series, and he has come a long way since those books, it was great to see him on occasion through the course of the Cottonbloom stories, and I am happy that Laura was given the opportunity to give him and Kayla their own happily ever after. My one gripe - (and it’s a small one) I really think this story had the legs in it to be a bit longer.
It had been years since he’d felt carefree. But being around her made him feel… alive.
This was a quick read, but it delivered on the emotions and feelings really well. If you have read the previous books you will remember Kayla as she featured quite a bit in Kiss Me That Way as a young woman with a few personal demons. Things have changed for her since, and we are now looking at a woman on the cusp of independence, dealing with feelings for a man who is more closed off to the prospect of a relationship than she is… initially anyway.
Kayla was the hair pin curve in his straight and narrow path.
I have a huge soft spot for any guy that rolls over and shows his belly in the course of a developing relationship with a woman, especially when he is perceived to be a bad boy, to then show a side of sweet and vulnerable, just grabs me by the heartstrings, and Jeremy was all that, described in a very tasty package.
"I know you. I know this is going to work out."
Love it, have loved this series, Laura Trentham was my Summer 2016 hit this year with the books releasing over those few short warm months, Cottonbloom feels a little like home now. I cannot wait too read more from her in 2017!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
October 30, 2016
4.5 stars
Candy Cane Christmas was a sweet and heartwarming holiday read.
Life for both Jeremy and Kayla had not been easy, both have taken steps to better their life and to put the past mistakes and pain behind them.
It warmed my heart watching Jeremy and Kayla connect and fall in love, they truly deserved their HEA.
I've loved all the books in the Cottonbloom series, author Laura Trentham has given us wonderful, memorable characters with entertaining storylines that will leave you with heart full of happy feels.
Each book can be read as a standalone but trust me when I say you will want to read them all!
*A big thank you to St. Martin's Press - Swerve for the advance copy.*
Candy Cane Christmas was a sweet and heartwarming holiday read.
Life for both Jeremy and Kayla had not been easy, both have taken steps to better their life and to put the past mistakes and pain behind them.
It warmed my heart watching Jeremy and Kayla connect and fall in love, they truly deserved their HEA.
I've loved all the books in the Cottonbloom series, author Laura Trentham has given us wonderful, memorable characters with entertaining storylines that will leave you with heart full of happy feels.
Each book can be read as a standalone but trust me when I say you will want to read them all!
*A big thank you to St. Martin's Press - Swerve for the advance copy.*
October 5, 2016
It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Laura Trentham's writing, and it's no secret that the small town of Cottonbloom well and truly captured my heart in 2016, so the opportunity for a festive little visit? Try and stop me.
For those of you that have read the series you'll remember Kayla and Jeremy from the first book in the series, Kiss Me That Way and with them being younger than the Fournette siblings and their beloved's, Candy Cane Christmas does have a NA feel to it.
It may be novella length so everything happens that bit quicker, but this couple have a lovely chemistry and their story is heartfelt, sweet and sexy. It was lovely to catch up with familiar faces, has satisfied my Cottonbloom craving and I can't wait to return and see who's next to find love.
Copy received courtesy of St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
For those of you that have read the series you'll remember Kayla and Jeremy from the first book in the series, Kiss Me That Way and with them being younger than the Fournette siblings and their beloved's, Candy Cane Christmas does have a NA feel to it.
It may be novella length so everything happens that bit quicker, but this couple have a lovely chemistry and their story is heartfelt, sweet and sexy. It was lovely to catch up with familiar faces, has satisfied my Cottonbloom craving and I can't wait to return and see who's next to find love.
Copy received courtesy of St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
October 21, 2016
A wonderfully sweet holiday read that will leave you smiling. Laura Trentham takes us back to Cottonbloom with the story of Jeremy Whitehurst. He was a troubled bad boy back in Alabama but since coming to Louisiana and working for Fournette Brothers Designs he's shed is bad boy image and started over. All his hard work is put to the test when the sassy new bookkeeper at Fournette's shows up. Jeremy has never been too fond of the holidays but this Christmas might be his best ever!
A really cute short read that will brighten your day. I definitely recommend it.
A really cute short read that will brighten your day. I definitely recommend it.
December 7, 2018
3.25 stars
Super short story about Kayla who we met in the first book and who allowed her douche boyfriend to push her around and the guy who rescued her ages ago. The heroine is older and wiser now and runs into the hero in her new work-place. Nice, decent one.
Super short story about Kayla who we met in the first book and who allowed her douche boyfriend to push her around and the guy who rescued her ages ago. The heroine is older and wiser now and runs into the hero in her new work-place. Nice, decent one.
November 3, 2016
Candy Cane Christmas is a lovely short holiday novella, set in Cottonbloom, Louisiana with characters that touch on the settings of both the Cottonbloom and the Falcon Football series by this author. I’ve read one of the football series and quite enjoyed it, but hadn’t read any of the Cottonbloom ones yet, so the secondary characters were not particularly familiar to me but the story reads well as a standalone.
Kayla has embarrassing memories of the night Jeremy saved her from her abusive ex, but he’s been in her thoughts on occasion since then. Interviewing for a job at Fournette Brothers Designs (run in part by her good friend Monroe’s husband), she knows that if she gets the job, she’ll have to face Jeremy on a daily basis as he has a job there as a mechanic. Jeremy had a rough upbringing and got into several scrapes with the law, so having a full-time job with men who have taken a chance on him is something he cherishes. He and Kayla have both experienced emotional heartache and abuse, and neither judges the other as a result, making them soon on the path to friendship. Can it turn into something more, with a little holiday sparkle to brighten the way?
The attraction between Jeremy and Kayla now that they meet again under better circumstances is clear from the outset. But both are shy and hesitant to get involved for obvious reasons, not the least of which is concerns about how working at the same business would affect a relationship. Kayla is just finishing her college degree in accounting and this will be her first big break, so she can’t afford to screw things up. But their friendship soon leads to more and some sexy scenes as a result. While Jeremy doesn’t believe in Christmas, having had very poor experiences with his mother as a child (a woman who is now in jail), Kayla is able to ease him back into the holiday spirit. There are some sweet scenes too as they share their pasts and trust their secrets with each other. It’s kept fairly lighthearted even with the emotional undertones and has a lovely happy ending suitable for this young couple. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. 3.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
Kayla has embarrassing memories of the night Jeremy saved her from her abusive ex, but he’s been in her thoughts on occasion since then. Interviewing for a job at Fournette Brothers Designs (run in part by her good friend Monroe’s husband), she knows that if she gets the job, she’ll have to face Jeremy on a daily basis as he has a job there as a mechanic. Jeremy had a rough upbringing and got into several scrapes with the law, so having a full-time job with men who have taken a chance on him is something he cherishes. He and Kayla have both experienced emotional heartache and abuse, and neither judges the other as a result, making them soon on the path to friendship. Can it turn into something more, with a little holiday sparkle to brighten the way?
The attraction between Jeremy and Kayla now that they meet again under better circumstances is clear from the outset. But both are shy and hesitant to get involved for obvious reasons, not the least of which is concerns about how working at the same business would affect a relationship. Kayla is just finishing her college degree in accounting and this will be her first big break, so she can’t afford to screw things up. But their friendship soon leads to more and some sexy scenes as a result. While Jeremy doesn’t believe in Christmas, having had very poor experiences with his mother as a child (a woman who is now in jail), Kayla is able to ease him back into the holiday spirit. There are some sweet scenes too as they share their pasts and trust their secrets with each other. It’s kept fairly lighthearted even with the emotional undertones and has a lovely happy ending suitable for this young couple. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. 3.5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
October 9, 2016
This is a fine short story. However, I found it lacking in a really good character development and story. It seemed that I kept waiting for the story to really pick up with excitement. In addition, the chemistry between Jeremy and Kayla was more like friends then lovers. I read the sex scenes and had no reactions, except for the first meeting between Jeremy and Kayla. That scene I did feel some steam. Again, I did not mind the length of this book as short stories can be just as great as full length novels; I just wished that the things that I pointed out had been there and then I would be writing a different tune about this book.
July 9, 2017
Kayla and Jeremy made their first appearance in Kiss Me That Way when Jeremy helps Monroe Kirby (now Fournette) and Kayla out of a bad situation with Kayla's ex-boyfriend. A couple of years later, Jeremy and Kayla's paths cross again, this time in the workplace.. and with much better results!
Considering the length of the story, Kayla and Jeremy were reasonably well developed characters. Both are learning to deal with insecurities from their perspective pasts and with some outside help, and each other, they learn to shake off the past and look towards the future. Their honest conversations and steamy romance had me blitzing through, however, I just wish their story was longer!
I'm a sucker for holiday stories and Candy Cane Christmas was the perfect treat! A Christmas romance, along with a generous serving of family and friends, round out this sweet holiday romance!
Considering the length of the story, Kayla and Jeremy were reasonably well developed characters. Both are learning to deal with insecurities from their perspective pasts and with some outside help, and each other, they learn to shake off the past and look towards the future. Their honest conversations and steamy romance had me blitzing through, however, I just wish their story was longer!
I'm a sucker for holiday stories and Candy Cane Christmas was the perfect treat! A Christmas romance, along with a generous serving of family and friends, round out this sweet holiday romance!
October 19, 2016
I've really been enjoying Laura Trentham's books. I find them so easy to read and contain such great characters. I was so thrilled when I heard that she was going to do a Christmas novella. I don't know about you but I really love novella's. They are really easy to read during the holidays. You can finish them in no time and don't feel like you're taking time away from friends and family to read.
You meet Jeremy in Trentham's Falcon Football Series. He's just a kid then and in the beginning you aren't sure if he'll turn out okay.
He does!
You also meet him in the first book of the Cottonbloom series too. I'm kinda glad he got his own story. There was something about him that just made you want to know how he turned out.
You also meet Kayla in the first Cottonbloom story. There are times when you have to wonder if she'll ever get her head on straight. I'm happy to see that she did.
In their story, they are both a little older and much smarter. They are both heading down the right track. I'm so happy for them both. Their love story is such a good one. They complete each other. I like how they don't judge each other, they understand where they've both come from and where they are going.
I also loved visiting with the Sawyer and Cade and finding out what's been going on with them. You also get a glance into what's been going on for Logan from the Falcon Football series. I really can't wait to see what's next! I hope I don't have to long to wait!
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
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ARC received for a honest review
You meet Jeremy in Trentham's Falcon Football Series. He's just a kid then and in the beginning you aren't sure if he'll turn out okay.
He does!
You also meet him in the first book of the Cottonbloom series too. I'm kinda glad he got his own story. There was something about him that just made you want to know how he turned out.
You also meet Kayla in the first Cottonbloom story. There are times when you have to wonder if she'll ever get her head on straight. I'm happy to see that she did.
In their story, they are both a little older and much smarter. They are both heading down the right track. I'm so happy for them both. Their love story is such a good one. They complete each other. I like how they don't judge each other, they understand where they've both come from and where they are going.
I also loved visiting with the Sawyer and Cade and finding out what's been going on with them. You also get a glance into what's been going on for Logan from the Falcon Football series. I really can't wait to see what's next! I hope I don't have to long to wait!
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
ARC received for a honest review
August 1, 2017
First of all let me say that I love Christmas. There is such a wonder feel but when it comes to books about Christmas not so much.
Secondly we are talking about Ms. Trentham and I love her Cottonbloom series. Since I read the first book I have been waiting for Kayla and Jeremy’s book.
Jeremy Whitehurst lived in Falcon and has had a hard past and has made some mistakes. He tries to move on but lives with what he’s done. He hasn’t ever had a proper Christmas. He has feelings for Kayla ever since he saved her. But thinks he isn’t good enough for her. He is a bit of a Grinch though.
Kayla Redmond loves Christmas and she has also had a crush on Jeremy for a very long time. She gets a job at Fournette’s Designs as an accountant. They can’t avoid one another anymore and they become closer with some stolen kisses until the dam breaks.
This is a sweet story, with some spice and I feel good Christmas romance. Well done Ms. Trentham.
Book received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review can also be found @ https://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blo...
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August 16, 2016Eeep ! More Cottonbloom goodness!
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More reviews and book talk at :
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September 27, 2016
***ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Love the Falcon Football series by this author and Jeremy, H, had a small cameo role in that series. Unfortunately I found this novella lacking Ms. Trentham's usual story telling and relationship development. It's a novella so it went fairly quick but was sadly missing depth for me. I was left too often pausing at the abrupt transitions between the two MCs while wanting more of the glimpses of their chemistry.
Love the Falcon Football series by this author and Jeremy, H, had a small cameo role in that series. Unfortunately I found this novella lacking Ms. Trentham's usual story telling and relationship development. It's a novella so it went fairly quick but was sadly missing depth for me. I was left too often pausing at the abrupt transitions between the two MCs while wanting more of the glimpses of their chemistry.
December 13, 2016
Review can be read at It's About The Book
Laura Trentham’s small town of Cottonbloom seems to be visited with handsome, studly men who have matured and seasoned to that fine ripeness we all look for. Recovering bad boys turned alpha male who have decided that there is room in their hearts for love. Women who’ve never been treated right finding themselves and looking for more than a man who’ll leave whenever things get tough. And Christmas? Well, it certainly brings out the small child in all of us. What better time for romance, right?
Kayla had met Jeremy before, and the circumstances of their meeting had been less than ideal. He’d come across her being brutalized by her now ex-boyfriend and had rescued her. The shame from that meeting keeps her tongue tied around him until he gently confronts her and assures her that he doesn’t think less of her for her past.
Jeremy is crazy about Kayla and he knows she’s uncomfortable about the last time they’d been together. Bringing it up not only makes her feel better–it gives him an opportunity to get to know her better and to ask her out.
When both of them give in to their feelings of attraction and allow themselves to move on from their less than perfect pasts, Jeremy and Kayla find a wonderful relationship growing between then. Now, can they keep fear and past memories from ruining their future together?
As always, I love Christmas books and Candy Cane Christmas is touching, romantic, and just like a candy cane–sweet with a little bit of pop! If you’re a fan of small towns and romances, this one is perfect!
Laura Trentham’s small town of Cottonbloom seems to be visited with handsome, studly men who have matured and seasoned to that fine ripeness we all look for. Recovering bad boys turned alpha male who have decided that there is room in their hearts for love. Women who’ve never been treated right finding themselves and looking for more than a man who’ll leave whenever things get tough. And Christmas? Well, it certainly brings out the small child in all of us. What better time for romance, right?
Kayla had met Jeremy before, and the circumstances of their meeting had been less than ideal. He’d come across her being brutalized by her now ex-boyfriend and had rescued her. The shame from that meeting keeps her tongue tied around him until he gently confronts her and assures her that he doesn’t think less of her for her past.
Jeremy is crazy about Kayla and he knows she’s uncomfortable about the last time they’d been together. Bringing it up not only makes her feel better–it gives him an opportunity to get to know her better and to ask her out.
When both of them give in to their feelings of attraction and allow themselves to move on from their less than perfect pasts, Jeremy and Kayla find a wonderful relationship growing between then. Now, can they keep fear and past memories from ruining their future together?
As always, I love Christmas books and Candy Cane Christmas is touching, romantic, and just like a candy cane–sweet with a little bit of pop! If you’re a fan of small towns and romances, this one is perfect!
October 26, 2016
I'm a huge fan of Laura Trentham , her Cottonbloom series is just fantastic .When I heard that Jeremy and Kayla were getting a novella I was so excited. And when I had a chance to read this book early I dived into this story as soon as I could and I loved it , Candy Cane Lane was fantastic.
I love these two characters, I've gotten to know little bits and pieces about Jeremy and Kayla and I already knew I liked them from the other books in the series , but this book made me absolutely adore them, you got to find out so much more about them in this story , these two have definitely been through their share of troubles but we get to see them in a better place working towards there goals and it was just fantastic to see . The romance in this book was just wonderful ,there was already an attraction between these two but in this story we got to see them fall in love ,the sweet and sexy moments Laura Trentham creates between these two, made root for them more and more with every turn of the page. With a sexy romance ,a fantastic cast of characters and the fact that this book is written in the holiday season . Laura Trentham gives us an excellent story with Candy Cane Lane.
Candy Cane Lane is a sexy ,sweet, novella . I literally felt like I was getting a little piece of the holidays early reading this book. I cannot wait to see what Laura Trentham writes next. If you love all these things in your books I suggest you get a copy when it comes out October 25, 2016
I love these two characters, I've gotten to know little bits and pieces about Jeremy and Kayla and I already knew I liked them from the other books in the series , but this book made me absolutely adore them, you got to find out so much more about them in this story , these two have definitely been through their share of troubles but we get to see them in a better place working towards there goals and it was just fantastic to see . The romance in this book was just wonderful ,there was already an attraction between these two but in this story we got to see them fall in love ,the sweet and sexy moments Laura Trentham creates between these two, made root for them more and more with every turn of the page. With a sexy romance ,a fantastic cast of characters and the fact that this book is written in the holiday season . Laura Trentham gives us an excellent story with Candy Cane Lane.
Candy Cane Lane is a sexy ,sweet, novella . I literally felt like I was getting a little piece of the holidays early reading this book. I cannot wait to see what Laura Trentham writes next. If you love all these things in your books I suggest you get a copy when it comes out October 25, 2016
October 27, 2016
Candy Cane Christmas by Laura Trentham is a novella that is part of her Cottonbloom series. It was nice to be able to revisit Cottonbloom, as I really loved the first three books. Candy Cane Christmas was a sweet romance that had a fun Christmas theme.
Kayla Redmon, our heroine, was rescued from an abusive boyfriend in the first book by Morgan, our then heroine. Kayla has pulled herself up from those dark days, and with Morgan’s help, gets a job working at Fournette Brothers Designs.
Jeremy Whitehurst also had a rough childhood, and moved to Cottonbloom for a fresh start. Jeremy , who works for Fournette Designs, still feels that trouble follows him. He remembers Kaya, whom he helped with the rescue and now with her working at the same place, feels the attraction to her. Both of them are somewhat unsure of their future, and each does not want to become involved. However, their new friendship will eventually over time escalate into a romance that will heal them, and give them a life together.
Kayla loves Christmas, and Jeremy does not believe in it. It was nice how Laura Trentham brought them together in this sweet fun romance, and tied it into a Christmas celebration for the Fournettes, Cottonbloom and our wonderful couple. Candy Cane Christmas was a sweet, heartwarming story. I hope we still get the visit Cottonbloom again.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Kayla Redmon, our heroine, was rescued from an abusive boyfriend in the first book by Morgan, our then heroine. Kayla has pulled herself up from those dark days, and with Morgan’s help, gets a job working at Fournette Brothers Designs.
Jeremy Whitehurst also had a rough childhood, and moved to Cottonbloom for a fresh start. Jeremy , who works for Fournette Designs, still feels that trouble follows him. He remembers Kaya, whom he helped with the rescue and now with her working at the same place, feels the attraction to her. Both of them are somewhat unsure of their future, and each does not want to become involved. However, their new friendship will eventually over time escalate into a romance that will heal them, and give them a life together.
Kayla loves Christmas, and Jeremy does not believe in it. It was nice how Laura Trentham brought them together in this sweet fun romance, and tied it into a Christmas celebration for the Fournettes, Cottonbloom and our wonderful couple. Candy Cane Christmas was a sweet, heartwarming story. I hope we still get the visit Cottonbloom again.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
November 14, 2016
This short novella was an extremely quick read. I have not read the previous books in this series, but I need to. I recommend you have read them in order to truly appreciate this story.
Jeremy Whitehurst had a terrible childhood and became rebellious and got into a lot of trouble back in Alabama. He moved to Cottonbloom, Louisiana. He now leads a quiet and low-key lifestyle that suits him just fine. He works for the Fournette Brothers and is treated like family by them. Kayla Redmond has a troubled past as well. She got involved with an abusive man who has left her reluctant to trust again. While going to school to become a bookkeeper, she is hired by the Fournette Brothers. Can she and Jeremy, the man who saved her from her ex, have a relationship? Can they trust again and get over their pasts? Will love between employees cause problems? With Christmas fast, approaching can these two damaged and weary souls find the strength to take a chance on love again??
This was a sweet Christmas romance, but be prepared for the descriptions of their sexual antics. This did not spoil the book for me, but if that is not your cup of tea, you might be disappointed with the book. I recommend this to romantics everywhere. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
Jeremy Whitehurst had a terrible childhood and became rebellious and got into a lot of trouble back in Alabama. He moved to Cottonbloom, Louisiana. He now leads a quiet and low-key lifestyle that suits him just fine. He works for the Fournette Brothers and is treated like family by them. Kayla Redmond has a troubled past as well. She got involved with an abusive man who has left her reluctant to trust again. While going to school to become a bookkeeper, she is hired by the Fournette Brothers. Can she and Jeremy, the man who saved her from her ex, have a relationship? Can they trust again and get over their pasts? Will love between employees cause problems? With Christmas fast, approaching can these two damaged and weary souls find the strength to take a chance on love again??
This was a sweet Christmas romance, but be prepared for the descriptions of their sexual antics. This did not spoil the book for me, but if that is not your cup of tea, you might be disappointed with the book. I recommend this to romantics everywhere. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
October 27, 2016
I’ve been waiting a long time for Jeremy to get a HEA and Trentham delivers beautifully. She gives us all of his background info that we’ve been waiting for, plus forgiveness and a chance at something more than just living for him.
Jeremy’s been beating himself up for his bad decisions for a long time but he’s proven himself to be a better man, to have learned from his past. Now he just has to realize it :) Kayla also has a little self-forgiveness to do and to realize that bad choices don’t define us. Like Jeremy, it’s what you do from then on that’s important.
While there isn’t a lot of conflict here, the growth that they go through is just as important. It’s a Christmas novella so there’s the requisite heart and emotion, learning and moving forward, fresh starts and healing old wounds … but of course with Trentham flair! She’s not going to give us just any old holiday cheer – ours has leather, motorcycles and cop cars just to keep things hopping.
(Honest review given voluntarily after receipt of this ARC)
Jeremy’s been beating himself up for his bad decisions for a long time but he’s proven himself to be a better man, to have learned from his past. Now he just has to realize it :) Kayla also has a little self-forgiveness to do and to realize that bad choices don’t define us. Like Jeremy, it’s what you do from then on that’s important.
While there isn’t a lot of conflict here, the growth that they go through is just as important. It’s a Christmas novella so there’s the requisite heart and emotion, learning and moving forward, fresh starts and healing old wounds … but of course with Trentham flair! She’s not going to give us just any old holiday cheer – ours has leather, motorcycles and cop cars just to keep things hopping.
(Honest review given voluntarily after receipt of this ARC)
October 4, 2016
This sweet little Christmas novella is based on Laura Trentham's Cottonbloom book series. It was a great story, written in the wonderful style that author Laura Trentham is so loved for. I loved the Cottonbloom books and thought that this short story was the perfect topping to a holiday season. Kayla Redmond and Jeremy Whitehurst cross paths when Kayla goes to work at Fournette Designs. There is an instant attraction and the reader is treated to an endearing love story. I recommend this book and author to all romance lovers!
Candy Cane Christmas by Laura Trentham will be available October 25, 2016 by Swerve, an imprint of MacMillian Publishing. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
Candy Cane Christmas by Laura Trentham will be available October 25, 2016 by Swerve, an imprint of MacMillian Publishing. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
October 26, 2016
Such a fun, sweet holiday story is Candy Cane Christmas by Laura Trentham. Having only read one other book by Ms. Trentham, I wondered if I would be confused after reading that Jeremy and Kayla had made appearances in other books when they were younger. No need to be concerned at all, this novella read fine on its own.
Just four chapters with a short epilogue, the story does progress at a fast rate. While there is some character development, being short there just isn’t the time for great depth. Still, I found Jeremy and Kayla to be delightfully endearing. No matter, I thoroughly enjoy this Christmas story with its message that goodness exists.
Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.
Just four chapters with a short epilogue, the story does progress at a fast rate. While there is some character development, being short there just isn’t the time for great depth. Still, I found Jeremy and Kayla to be delightfully endearing. No matter, I thoroughly enjoy this Christmas story with its message that goodness exists.
Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.
November 11, 2016
Overall I thought that this was a short, sweet, and enjoyable holiday read. Wish this novella could've been longer but its good for what it is. I thought it was interesting getting to see the brief history between the two and seeing their relationship now seeing friendship going into something more heated and sweet. This book is great to give you the holidays feels and if you are pressed for time and want a short escape into a book then I think this book is for you.
October 1, 2016
I loved Jeremy, he had some good ideas, "there are much more fun things we can do in the dark.” He fumbled with the remote, turned off the TV, and proceeded to demonstrate." This was a quick read, but it got you into the holiday spirit.
October 30, 2016
A super fast read that leaves a big feel-good feeling. I adore short Christmas novellas and this one hit the mark. I loved that the H/h were trying so hard yet still lacked the self-confidence they'd earned. Very real and a satisfying story. Loved the mechanics/body shop setting!
October 21, 2016
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and St Martin's Press*
November 7, 2016
This is a super sweet novella about two previous secondary characters in the Cottonbloom world. We first meet Jeremy and Kayla in Book 1, Kiss Me That Way, Cade Fournette and Monroe Kirby’s story. Monroe taught self-defense classes and Kayla was one of her students. Monroe also had a soft spot for the young lady and made sure Kayla knew that if she ever got into trouble, she could call Monroe.
Well, one night Kayla needed help. Monroe and Kayla were cornered by Kayla’s drunk abusive boyfriend and a good Samaritan came to their rescue in the form of Jeremy Whitehurst. Jeremy sees the women in trouble and intervenes, getting his behind kicked in the process. Kayla never forgot that night…and neither has Jeremy.
We fast-forward a couple of years to present day Cottonbloom. Kayla has gotten her life together and is almost done with her associate’s degree. She’s coming to Fournette Brothers Designs (Cade & Sawyer’s business) to apply for a bookkeeping job. And before she has a chance to head inside, she trips in the parking lot just as Jeremy comes riding in on his motorcycle. She hasn’t forgotten Jeremy’s kindness and although they’ve seen each other over the past two years, they haven’t really shared a connection until he renders first aid on her knee.
Jeremy has been working for Cade Fournette and his brother Sawyer as a mechanic for a while now. He keeps to himself as well as keeping everyone else away. Jeremy had a bad childhood and was labeled a troublemaker early on in his small hometown in Alabama. But he wasn’t. He was just a kid that had to grow up WAY faster than everyone else. Thankfully the Fournette brothers saw his potential and hired him shortly after he saved Monroe and Kayla from an attack.
Jeremy and Kayla have excellent chemistry. I was hoping for their story when I first met them back in Cade’s book! Their story was so special and tugged hard on my heartstrings. Jeremy didn’t believe he deserved happiness, especially a beautiful woman like Kayla in his life. The story kind of hit home for me a bit. I could easily relate to Jeremy and his struggle to accept that he was worthy of being happy. Jeremy and Kayla’s story is well-deserved and beautifully written.
CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS can definitely be read as a standalone or part of the series. It’s a Christmas story full of hope, heart and happiness. Sometimes we need to be smacked upside the head in order to accept the fact that we are not undeserving of happiness. I want to thank Laura Trentham for writing this beautiful book and I can’t wait to find out what she has in story next in this wonderful community of Cottonbloom!
***ARC generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
Well, one night Kayla needed help. Monroe and Kayla were cornered by Kayla’s drunk abusive boyfriend and a good Samaritan came to their rescue in the form of Jeremy Whitehurst. Jeremy sees the women in trouble and intervenes, getting his behind kicked in the process. Kayla never forgot that night…and neither has Jeremy.
We fast-forward a couple of years to present day Cottonbloom. Kayla has gotten her life together and is almost done with her associate’s degree. She’s coming to Fournette Brothers Designs (Cade & Sawyer’s business) to apply for a bookkeeping job. And before she has a chance to head inside, she trips in the parking lot just as Jeremy comes riding in on his motorcycle. She hasn’t forgotten Jeremy’s kindness and although they’ve seen each other over the past two years, they haven’t really shared a connection until he renders first aid on her knee.
Jeremy has been working for Cade Fournette and his brother Sawyer as a mechanic for a while now. He keeps to himself as well as keeping everyone else away. Jeremy had a bad childhood and was labeled a troublemaker early on in his small hometown in Alabama. But he wasn’t. He was just a kid that had to grow up WAY faster than everyone else. Thankfully the Fournette brothers saw his potential and hired him shortly after he saved Monroe and Kayla from an attack.
Jeremy and Kayla have excellent chemistry. I was hoping for their story when I first met them back in Cade’s book! Their story was so special and tugged hard on my heartstrings. Jeremy didn’t believe he deserved happiness, especially a beautiful woman like Kayla in his life. The story kind of hit home for me a bit. I could easily relate to Jeremy and his struggle to accept that he was worthy of being happy. Jeremy and Kayla’s story is well-deserved and beautifully written.
CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS can definitely be read as a standalone or part of the series. It’s a Christmas story full of hope, heart and happiness. Sometimes we need to be smacked upside the head in order to accept the fact that we are not undeserving of happiness. I want to thank Laura Trentham for writing this beautiful book and I can’t wait to find out what she has in story next in this wonderful community of Cottonbloom!
***ARC generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
August 21, 2022
#3.5 in the Cottonbloom romance series
Quick, sweet, sexy novella combining characters from two different series. I know Kayla from the Cottonbloom series and the violent situation she found herself in one night. Jeremy came to her rescue, although we didn't really know anything about him. Come to find out, he apparently is a well-known character in Trentham's Sweet Home Alabama series (which I didn't realize until I read some other reviews). They are cute together. He is a young go-getter working for Cade and Sawyer Fournette at the engineering company. He lacks confidence because of a tough upbringing, but he's talented at his work and trying to make a new start. Kayla, just graduating from college, is looking for her first admin job for the Fournette brothers. She's also nervous, tentative, and unsure about herself. Their relationship flourishes quickly, after some false stars, culminating in a HEA at Christmas. The title is misleading, but technically true. The brief story has now got me interested in reading the other series as soon as I finish the one based in Cottombloom.
Quick, sweet, sexy novella combining characters from two different series. I know Kayla from the Cottonbloom series and the violent situation she found herself in one night. Jeremy came to her rescue, although we didn't really know anything about him. Come to find out, he apparently is a well-known character in Trentham's Sweet Home Alabama series (which I didn't realize until I read some other reviews). They are cute together. He is a young go-getter working for Cade and Sawyer Fournette at the engineering company. He lacks confidence because of a tough upbringing, but he's talented at his work and trying to make a new start. Kayla, just graduating from college, is looking for her first admin job for the Fournette brothers. She's also nervous, tentative, and unsure about herself. Their relationship flourishes quickly, after some false stars, culminating in a HEA at Christmas. The title is misleading, but technically true. The brief story has now got me interested in reading the other series as soon as I finish the one based in Cottombloom.
October 29, 2016
4.5 Stars for this Christmas novella!
Candy Cane Christmas is both sweet and sexy. The novella brings together two slightly wounded characters who find happiness and healing together. I loved Jeremy, the ultimate wounded bad boy and fell harder as each layer was peeled back. Kayla was the perfect heroine for him. She’d made some bad choices too but didn’t let her past overshadow her bright future.
I highly recommend Candy Cane Christmas. It’s a fun holiday read!
I received an ARC from Netgalley and choice to post an honest review.
Candy Cane Christmas is both sweet and sexy. The novella brings together two slightly wounded characters who find happiness and healing together. I loved Jeremy, the ultimate wounded bad boy and fell harder as each layer was peeled back. Kayla was the perfect heroine for him. She’d made some bad choices too but didn’t let her past overshadow her bright future.
I highly recommend Candy Cane Christmas. It’s a fun holiday read!
I received an ARC from Netgalley and choice to post an honest review.
November 29, 2016
Decent short read. Wish it developed the characters a tiny bit more but guess that's the short story effect. Hehe.
January 7, 2019
Loved It!!!
October 29, 2016
*review coming soon*
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