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Fire and Sparks #1
Wedding Date Rescue
As a Firefighter, Kent Wakefield has been burned before, and not just by fire. So when Casey Bradford, his best friend's off-limits, gorgeous little sister, asks him to be her fake boyfriend, he flat out refuses. He doesn't do relationships, real or otherwise. But when his well-meaning, marriage-pushing mother corners him about his cousin's wedding, he panics and tells her he has a date.
After being left at the altar, Casey is out of options. She needs a boyfriend ASAP or she can kiss her dreams good-bye. Who better than her brother's emotionally-unavailable best friend, Kent. She may have nursed a childhood crush, but this arrangement will be purely platonic...that is until he kisses her and suddenly it gets a lot harder to remember it's all pretend.
After being left at the altar, Casey is out of options. She needs a boyfriend ASAP or she can kiss her dreams good-bye. Who better than her brother's emotionally-unavailable best friend, Kent. She may have nursed a childhood crush, but this arrangement will be purely platonic...that is until he kisses her and suddenly it gets a lot harder to remember it's all pretend.
144 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2017
60 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
Sonya Weiss
14 books329 followersSonya Weiss is a freelance writer, ghostwriter and author. She's addicted to great books, good movies, and Italian chocolates.
She's passionate about causes that support abused animals and children. Her parents always supported her bringing stray animals home although the Great Dane rescue was a surprise.
She's passionate about causes that support abused animals and children. Her parents always supported her bringing stray animals home although the Great Dane rescue was a surprise.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 25, 2017
Casey Bradford runs a matchmaking service, helping women find their Mr Right but when her husband to be deserts her at the altar, it has a negative impact on her business, too! When her investors and backers are threatening to pull their money, Casey needs to take decisive action to keep her company. When it is suggested she get herself a fake boyfriend, she initially has no intentions of doing so, she can't lie! However, the more she thinks about it, the more her brother's friend and colleague, firefighter Kent Wakefield seems ideal, especially after he has to rescue her from a tree! He's the person who came to her rescue so many times in the past and they've always been friends.
Kent was involved in a tragic rescue in which his colleague died and he was badly injured. That's when Casey proved a staunch friend, helping him fight to recover, despite his then girlfriend cruelly abandoning him. When Casey asks him to be her fake boyfriend he immediately says no way. However, his matchmaking mother's antics corner him endeavouring to find him a date for his cousin's wedding, he panics and claims that he already has one Casey! As the two start out on their fake relationship they'll discover that their friendship and attraction are going to be difficult to resist but both are reticent to give in to their feelings because of past hurts and trying to protect each other. Can love help them find a way to their happy ever after or will it all remain fake, after all?
This is a truly blissful friends to lovers romance. It has a great cast of characters - from two matchmaking mothers to protective brothers, two people who have been let down by the people who are supposed to love them and neither initially realising why they always turn to each other at times of trouble. It is a story of a community where everyone knows everyone else's business, love that everyone else acknowledges but the two concerned and with plenty of laugh out loud moments, great banter and obstacles that make the reader ponder on how things could possibly work out. A great read which I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into - I can't wait to read more in this series!
Many thanks to the publishers for gifting me a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review.
Kent was involved in a tragic rescue in which his colleague died and he was badly injured. That's when Casey proved a staunch friend, helping him fight to recover, despite his then girlfriend cruelly abandoning him. When Casey asks him to be her fake boyfriend he immediately says no way. However, his matchmaking mother's antics corner him endeavouring to find him a date for his cousin's wedding, he panics and claims that he already has one Casey! As the two start out on their fake relationship they'll discover that their friendship and attraction are going to be difficult to resist but both are reticent to give in to their feelings because of past hurts and trying to protect each other. Can love help them find a way to their happy ever after or will it all remain fake, after all?
This is a truly blissful friends to lovers romance. It has a great cast of characters - from two matchmaking mothers to protective brothers, two people who have been let down by the people who are supposed to love them and neither initially realising why they always turn to each other at times of trouble. It is a story of a community where everyone knows everyone else's business, love that everyone else acknowledges but the two concerned and with plenty of laugh out loud moments, great banter and obstacles that make the reader ponder on how things could possibly work out. A great read which I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into - I can't wait to read more in this series!
Many thanks to the publishers for gifting me a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review.
February 6, 2017
I adored this book! Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and Casey and Kent were so much fun to read about. I loved all the glimpses into their past that helped shaped their strong friendship and loved even more how they discovered the one person they couldn't live without was right under their nose all along. I had a smile on my face throughout the story, laughed out loud, and swooned over Kent. He is Firefighter McHottie and his banter with Casey was one of the things I loved best about this sweet story. Add in a charming small town, meddling moms (who cracked me up), and this is a wonderful feel-good romance not to be missed. I can't wait for more in this series!
February 27, 2017
Casey is from a small town and being left at the altar is something everybody knows and talks about. She has a matchmaking business, but it's suffering because she couldn't keep her man. She's being pressured by her investors to date someone again and to make it believable, so she can save everything she's worked so hard for. She already knows who she should ask, but will the man she has in mind be willing to fake a relationship with her?
Kent lost everything he held dear because of a fire. He's a firefighter and while his job is rescuing people he doesn't know how to help himself. His mother keeps setting him up with all kinds of different women, but Kent isn't interested. There's a family wedding she thinks he shouldn't go to on his own, but Kent isn't interested in taking anyone. While Casey's plan to pretend to be together isn't the best idea she's ever had, Kent agrees in exchange for some peace and quiet. Is that really what he's going to get or will being near Casey all the time without actually having her prove to be a lot more difficult than he thought?
Wedding Date Rescue is a sweet romantic story. Casey is a beautiful person, both inside and out. She cares about Kent and wants to protect him, which is incredibly endearing. Kent is a kindhearted man. He's gentle and caring and he's genuinely worried about Casey because of everything she's been though. The way he thinks about her is adorable. While Kent and Casey have known each other for a very long time they've always kept their relationship safely in the friend zone. However, when they need to touch and kiss each other to make their connection believable there are plenty of sparks. I loved their chemistry and close friendship, it's a terrific combination and it was fun to read about.
Sonya Weiss is great at describing personalities and building up tension. Her writing flows easily and Wedding Date Rescue is a quick read that I didn't want to put down. I read this wonderful story in one sitting. I love stories about best friends who realize their feelings go much deeper than just friendship and think Wedding Date Rescue is a good one. It's a lovely lighthearted story.
Kent lost everything he held dear because of a fire. He's a firefighter and while his job is rescuing people he doesn't know how to help himself. His mother keeps setting him up with all kinds of different women, but Kent isn't interested. There's a family wedding she thinks he shouldn't go to on his own, but Kent isn't interested in taking anyone. While Casey's plan to pretend to be together isn't the best idea she's ever had, Kent agrees in exchange for some peace and quiet. Is that really what he's going to get or will being near Casey all the time without actually having her prove to be a lot more difficult than he thought?
Wedding Date Rescue is a sweet romantic story. Casey is a beautiful person, both inside and out. She cares about Kent and wants to protect him, which is incredibly endearing. Kent is a kindhearted man. He's gentle and caring and he's genuinely worried about Casey because of everything she's been though. The way he thinks about her is adorable. While Kent and Casey have known each other for a very long time they've always kept their relationship safely in the friend zone. However, when they need to touch and kiss each other to make their connection believable there are plenty of sparks. I loved their chemistry and close friendship, it's a terrific combination and it was fun to read about.
Sonya Weiss is great at describing personalities and building up tension. Her writing flows easily and Wedding Date Rescue is a quick read that I didn't want to put down. I read this wonderful story in one sitting. I love stories about best friends who realize their feelings go much deeper than just friendship and think Wedding Date Rescue is a good one. It's a lovely lighthearted story.
March 15, 2017
I absolutely adored this latest book by Sonya Weiss. WEDDING DATE RESCUE is one of the sweetest, most romantic love stories I've read in a while. Kent and Casey are both just so charming with humorous and playful personalities. The way they teased each other was so fun to read. I was truly laughing out loud so many times at the dialogue I'm glad I wasn't in a public place. Ms Weiss does a great job of creating the ease between them that comes from having grown up together and knowing each other well. Clearly, they have been in love with each other for many years even if the two of them could not see this.
You don't want to miss this feel-good romance. The storyline line is a fun, well-written friends-to-lovers trope, with just a touch of whimsy. The characters are engaging and will hook you right into falling in love with them too. I'd forgotten how great a writer Sonya Weiss is and how much I love her stories. Wedding Date Rescue is a good reminder to check her back list and make sure I haven't missed one. 5 stars
You don't want to miss this feel-good romance. The storyline line is a fun, well-written friends-to-lovers trope, with just a touch of whimsy. The characters are engaging and will hook you right into falling in love with them too. I'd forgotten how great a writer Sonya Weiss is and how much I love her stories. Wedding Date Rescue is a good reminder to check her back list and make sure I haven't missed one. 5 stars
January 28, 2017
Take a hero firefighter, damaged both physically and emotionally, one woman desperate to save her business, bring them together to serve at cross purposes, and you have a genuinely wonderful story that'll leave you with a light heart and a smile. Ms Weiss has created relatable characters who are filled with so much personality that it is extremely difficult not to fall in love with them. The premise of best friends to lovers is not new, but when done the way this author has, in its own unique way with heart and soul, you have an emotionally charged story that is difficult at best to put down once you start reading.
The dialog is so descriptive and carefully crafted that I saw nearly every scene unfolding in my mind's eye. I lost myself in the story time and again to the imagery and its captivating characters...it was almost as if I'd come up for air to realize I was reading! I am truly impressed with this author's ability to tell a story in such a way to literally breathe 3D life into words on a page.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
The dialog is so descriptive and carefully crafted that I saw nearly every scene unfolding in my mind's eye. I lost myself in the story time and again to the imagery and its captivating characters...it was almost as if I'd come up for air to realize I was reading! I am truly impressed with this author's ability to tell a story in such a way to literally breathe 3D life into words on a page.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
February 4, 2017
Friends to lover stories always get to me. To think that your "one" has been with you the whole time. You already know everything about them , there is no "guess" work. I loved this story, and the strong female and even stronger male leads. It has me laughing, crying, walking away and counting to 10 before I came back and finish reading. Over all this book had it all to me, the HEA, the drama, the make up , the laughs, and tears. Way to go Sonya!
Reviewed by GypsyBelle
Reviewed by GypsyBelle
February 20, 2017
I received a copy of this title from NetGalley. It does not impact my review.
After reading a pretty heavy, emotional book I really needed something light and fun and Wedding Date Rescue was exactly that. Casey is a professional matchmaker who was recently left at the altar. Her business is declining and her investors are worried. It’s suggested that she find a new man and quick – even if it’s just for show – so her investors don’t lose faith. She decides her relationship-phobic friend, Kent, is just the guy for the job, but he’s resistant. However, with his ex-girlfriend coming back to town and his mother pushing every eligible woman she find in his direction he decides the fake relationship with Casey could work.
I really liked both Casey and Kent. I liked their friendship and how they could joke with each other. The fake relationship trope is my favorite romance subject and I thought theirs was done pretty well. I enjoyed watching as each fake outing and kiss developed more and more into real feelings. Their relationship was really cute.
I wish we would’ve gotten a little more background information on them, though. We know that Casey was left at the altar and that her ex-fiancé, Dominic, was a friend before they started dating, but we never find out how they got together or why they didn’t work out. We find out Kent had been in an accident while working as a firefighter and the fallout included one of his friends dying and his girlfriend dumping him. But we don’t really get much information about his injuries or what his relationship with his ex was like. The whole thing seemed just kind of thrown in for an added bit of a drama and I thought it could have been a lot more explored.
Overall, though, I enjoyed Wedding Date Rescue. I liked the characters and the romance. It was light and fun and just what I needed right now. I definitely recommend it to fans of fake relationship storylines.
Overall Rating (out of 5): 3.5 Stars
After reading a pretty heavy, emotional book I really needed something light and fun and Wedding Date Rescue was exactly that. Casey is a professional matchmaker who was recently left at the altar. Her business is declining and her investors are worried. It’s suggested that she find a new man and quick – even if it’s just for show – so her investors don’t lose faith. She decides her relationship-phobic friend, Kent, is just the guy for the job, but he’s resistant. However, with his ex-girlfriend coming back to town and his mother pushing every eligible woman she find in his direction he decides the fake relationship with Casey could work.
I really liked both Casey and Kent. I liked their friendship and how they could joke with each other. The fake relationship trope is my favorite romance subject and I thought theirs was done pretty well. I enjoyed watching as each fake outing and kiss developed more and more into real feelings. Their relationship was really cute.
I wish we would’ve gotten a little more background information on them, though. We know that Casey was left at the altar and that her ex-fiancé, Dominic, was a friend before they started dating, but we never find out how they got together or why they didn’t work out. We find out Kent had been in an accident while working as a firefighter and the fallout included one of his friends dying and his girlfriend dumping him. But we don’t really get much information about his injuries or what his relationship with his ex was like. The whole thing seemed just kind of thrown in for an added bit of a drama and I thought it could have been a lot more explored.
Overall, though, I enjoyed Wedding Date Rescue. I liked the characters and the romance. It was light and fun and just what I needed right now. I definitely recommend it to fans of fake relationship storylines.
Overall Rating (out of 5): 3.5 Stars
February 13, 2017
Adored this one!! A great combination of friends to lovers, best friend's little sister, and fake fiancee tropes made this one a winner for me. Slightly damaged from a prior relationship Kent isn't looking for a new one no matter what his family thinks he should do. Casey just got jilted at the author leaving all her hopes and dreams up in the air. A new relationship is the last thing she wants but she NEEDS one desperately. Who better than these two to pretend to be together?
I love the writing style of Sonya Weiss and these characters and the banter between them made this a very enjoyable read. I recommend this one to everyone.
I love the writing style of Sonya Weiss and these characters and the banter between them made this a very enjoyable read. I recommend this one to everyone.
February 28, 2017
Sweet and fun fake relationship / friends-to-lovers story! Kent and Casey are the perfect couple, even if they didn't realize themselves. They've known each other their entire lives, but as the little sister of his best friend, she has always been off limits to him. But with Casey's matchmaking business in danger of closing its doors after her failed relationship, and Kent's ex attending his cousin's wedding, they are both in need of a significant other. They may be fake dating, but they both have more than friendly feelings for each other they try to fight. While somewhat short in length, I loved the way their relationship evolved as they both discover the ways they've both been there for each other as only someone in love could be. Looking forward to the next book!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. I was not compensated for this review, all conclusions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. I was not compensated for this review, all conclusions are my own.
February 4, 2017
Sometimes when Kent speaks, he leaves no room for quetioning, "I’m going to make love to you, Casey, and the first time is going to be powerful and fast and hard, because I’ve wanted this for too long.” I liked this book it was sweet, I loved Kent.
February 27, 2017
Friends to lover stories are always my cup of tea and this is one that fits that category for me. Casey is a professional matchmaker who was left at the alter recently . Due to this, Her business is declining and her investors are worried. So now some people are suggesting she get someone to play her new boyfriend-which he would be just for show- so her investors don’t lose faith. Casey thinks about it and finds that will have to do and thinks Kent, her friend who is really a relationship-phobe is just the guy for the job. At first he wanted nothing to do with her offer but when his ex GF comes back into the picture and his mother trying to set him up with every woman who was single, well Casey’s offer was mighty promising so he decides the fake relationship with Casey could work between them.
Both Casey and Kent are likeable characters, people you would want to be friends with. They had this easy connection with one another. It was easy to watch what fake turn into a real relationship .
I think I needed to know, or at least some sort of little more background of what caused the previous boyfriend to leave Casey at the alter. I don’t think there was closure there. There was nothing about their relationship. Dominic was a friend before they started dating, but we never find out how they got together or why they didn’t work out. Same goes for Kent- We find out Kent had been in an accident while working as a firefighter and the fallout included one of his friends dying and his girlfriend dumping him. But we didn’t get much information on why his girlfriend did what she did and dump him or what kind of injuries did he have. Those things would have enhanced the story.
In the end, this was a light and sweet friends to lovers story.
My rating: 4.2 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Both Casey and Kent are likeable characters, people you would want to be friends with. They had this easy connection with one another. It was easy to watch what fake turn into a real relationship .
I think I needed to know, or at least some sort of little more background of what caused the previous boyfriend to leave Casey at the alter. I don’t think there was closure there. There was nothing about their relationship. Dominic was a friend before they started dating, but we never find out how they got together or why they didn’t work out. Same goes for Kent- We find out Kent had been in an accident while working as a firefighter and the fallout included one of his friends dying and his girlfriend dumping him. But we didn’t get much information on why his girlfriend did what she did and dump him or what kind of injuries did he have. Those things would have enhanced the story.
In the end, this was a light and sweet friends to lovers story.
My rating: 4.2 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
December 23, 2017
This book just might be my favourite friends to lovers story. Everything about it was perfect. From the way they denied that they have feelings for each other to the way they ended up together.
I love Casey and Kent. These two were funny, sweet and even though they started out as a pretend couple, the chemistry was very real. I love the insight from everyone, especially from the gramma.
"Caution is for the bomb squad. When you love someone, you go full speed ahead, enjoying every moment of not knowing what's around the corner."
I was heartbroken when he let his fears get to him and he broke off the whole thing. And the way he redeemed himself...OMG I never wanted to crawl in a book more and kiss the main character 😍
I can't wait to read about the next couple in the series..If this book is any indication it will be another AMAZING read👍
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
I love Casey and Kent. These two were funny, sweet and even though they started out as a pretend couple, the chemistry was very real. I love the insight from everyone, especially from the gramma.
"Caution is for the bomb squad. When you love someone, you go full speed ahead, enjoying every moment of not knowing what's around the corner."
I was heartbroken when he let his fears get to him and he broke off the whole thing. And the way he redeemed himself...OMG I never wanted to crawl in a book more and kiss the main character 😍
I can't wait to read about the next couple in the series..If this book is any indication it will be another AMAZING read👍
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
February 15, 2017
Due to close family friendships, Casey and Kent have been friends since they were babies and neither have realised that their feelings are no longer platonic. Casey's matchmaking business is threatened by the bad publicity of her fiancé Dominic jilting her at the altar and when one of her investors says she needs a fake relationship she thinks of Kent, her commitment phobic friend. Casey and Kent are such a cute couple and I loved their story. Friends to lovers is one of my favourite tropes and Ms Weiss did not disappoint- feel the sizzle! Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
February 28, 2017
This is a wonderful friends to lovers read. Kent and Casey have known each other since babies. They both need each other to fake a relationship but is it more and can they make it work. This was a great read and Sonya Weiss did a great job keeping you interested and know wanting to read what happens with Josie and Lincoln.
February 28, 2017
I took a chance on this one on a whim since friends to lovers stories are one of my favorites. This was a quick and fairly easily read for me, the author put a lot of personality and story. Kent was damaged emotionally and physical and wanted to stay far away from all relationships. Casey was jilted but kept going, her determination to save her failing business. Together they have this mutual benefit scenario. Very likable characters, I enjoyed the banter a lot.
As her brother's best friend Kent has always been around, Casey has always been there for him and his attractive qualities were easy to notice. Their arrangement maybe pretend but soon enough sparks fly things aren't so fake anymore. The lighter moments of this book will make you smile. Oh and that hot firefighter helps too. Add meddling moms you get two people who fit together but haven't seen it till now. It was all quite sweet and endearing. The side characters have possible story lines set up ahead so I hope this series get more books. Light hearted and a delightful easy read.
*** ARC kindly provided by the publisher for an honest review ***
As her brother's best friend Kent has always been around, Casey has always been there for him and his attractive qualities were easy to notice. Their arrangement maybe pretend but soon enough sparks fly things aren't so fake anymore. The lighter moments of this book will make you smile. Oh and that hot firefighter helps too. Add meddling moms you get two people who fit together but haven't seen it till now. It was all quite sweet and endearing. The side characters have possible story lines set up ahead so I hope this series get more books. Light hearted and a delightful easy read.
*** ARC kindly provided by the publisher for an honest review ***
February 11, 2017
As a Firefighter, Kent Wakefield has been burned before, and not just by fire. So when Casey Bradford, his best friend's off-limits, gorgeous little sister, asks him to be her fake boyfriend, he flat out refuses. He doesn't do relationships, real or otherwise. But when his well-meaning, marriage-pushing mother corners him about his cousin's wedding, he panics and tells her he has a date.
After being left at the altar, Casey is out of options. She needs a boyfriend ASAP or she can kiss her dreams good-bye. Who better than her brother's emotionally unavailable best friend, Kent. She may have nursed a childhood crush, but this arrangement will be purely platonic...that is until he kisses her and suddenly it gets a lot harder to remember it's all pretend.
This was an excellent book that had no sex, hardly any language and some awesome characters!! Sonya Weiss knows how to write a true romance novel with good build up to a love story. Everybody in this story knew the main characters were in love but them and I love those kind of books. This was about a couple in their thirties who had been friends since they were children - which was another check in the box of golden romance stories. I love when you have childhood to adult sweetheart stories. They just have a way of tugging at your heartstrings. I fell in love with the extended families in this story and was rooting for them to all have a book because if they do...I will definitely be reading and reviewing! I loved that this was a honest to goodness plot-driven romance. So often, there isn't a plot in books nowadays - it's just sex with a side of plot. This book was totally different. Sonya reminds me of Kristan Higgins, Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery rolled into one. She weaves a story of family, love and loyalty. Pick this book up as soon as it comes out and you won't be disappointed!!
I was given a copy of this ARC from the publisher on Netgalley for a honest review. All of the above comments are my express opinions and no one else's.
After being left at the altar, Casey is out of options. She needs a boyfriend ASAP or she can kiss her dreams good-bye. Who better than her brother's emotionally unavailable best friend, Kent. She may have nursed a childhood crush, but this arrangement will be purely platonic...that is until he kisses her and suddenly it gets a lot harder to remember it's all pretend.
This was an excellent book that had no sex, hardly any language and some awesome characters!! Sonya Weiss knows how to write a true romance novel with good build up to a love story. Everybody in this story knew the main characters were in love but them and I love those kind of books. This was about a couple in their thirties who had been friends since they were children - which was another check in the box of golden romance stories. I love when you have childhood to adult sweetheart stories. They just have a way of tugging at your heartstrings. I fell in love with the extended families in this story and was rooting for them to all have a book because if they do...I will definitely be reading and reviewing! I loved that this was a honest to goodness plot-driven romance. So often, there isn't a plot in books nowadays - it's just sex with a side of plot. This book was totally different. Sonya reminds me of Kristan Higgins, Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery rolled into one. She weaves a story of family, love and loyalty. Pick this book up as soon as it comes out and you won't be disappointed!!
I was given a copy of this ARC from the publisher on Netgalley for a honest review. All of the above comments are my express opinions and no one else's.
February 26, 2017
ARC Review: Wedding Date Rescue (Fire and Sparks) by Sonya Weiss
What happens when friendship and romance collide? Sparks fly. With Wedding Date Rescue, I knew what I was in for. Romance, a little light humor and an irresistible time. I went in with the mind set that it would be a cute read and came out adoring Kent and Casey from beginning to end. Never underestimate the power of the heart. Sonya Weiss grabbed hold of my heart and was reluctant to set it free.
What happens when friendship and romance collide? Sparks fly. With Wedding Date Rescue, I knew what I was in for. Romance, a little light humor and an irresistible time. I went in with the mind set that it would be a cute read and came out adoring Kent and Casey from beginning to end. Never underestimate the power of the heart. Sonya Weiss grabbed hold of my heart and was reluctant to set it free.
February 22, 2017
Oh my goodness, this is about the sweetest book I have read. I loved both Casey and Kent from start to finish. Kent just reached and grabbed hold if the old heartstrings. And the flirty, fun, and friendly banter between them only made me love them more. Their story kept me hooked the entire time. Casey's grandma almost stole the show. Oh how I want to be her when I grow up. The mothers were hilarious and her brothers were fantastic. I cannot wait for more for Casey's brothers. My only bad thing was I wished Casey had really gotten into Rebecca.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
February 13, 2017
When Casey was dumped at the alter by her fiancée, Kent was there to shield her from as much pain & humiliation as he could. Just like he had been there all her life. They grew up together & were friends.
When Kent's girlfriend walked out on him after he was injured on the job, Casey was there telling him any woman would be lucky to have, scars & all. Now, Casey needed his help with her business & Kent needed her help with a wedding his ex would be at. Who knew their feelings were so intense!
I loved this story! The characters are well developed & realistic. They seem like the kids growing up down the block. Now all grown up, they see each other in a different light. They both are afraid to show their feelings because they won't be reciprocated. The chemistry between them was apparent in the writing. The supporting cast supports the plot & provides additional color. I loved Casey's brothers & her best friend Josie! If you love friends to lovers & clean romance, you have to give this book a chance! I can't wait for the next one!
When Kent's girlfriend walked out on him after he was injured on the job, Casey was there telling him any woman would be lucky to have, scars & all. Now, Casey needed his help with her business & Kent needed her help with a wedding his ex would be at. Who knew their feelings were so intense!
I loved this story! The characters are well developed & realistic. They seem like the kids growing up down the block. Now all grown up, they see each other in a different light. They both are afraid to show their feelings because they won't be reciprocated. The chemistry between them was apparent in the writing. The supporting cast supports the plot & provides additional color. I loved Casey's brothers & her best friend Josie! If you love friends to lovers & clean romance, you have to give this book a chance! I can't wait for the next one!
March 3, 2017
While I suspected this was going to be a fairly wholesome story, I totally forgot there was a huge chance this would be unbelievably hokey. I mean, look at the cover and read the summary. It totally was what I suspected. I put it down tons of times and walked away to find other reads because it was so difficult to get drawn into this book. It just didn't feel real. Of course we know it's fiction, but I don't want it to feel that way. I want to get so swept away by the emotions that it becomes real to me. That the actions get lodged in my brain and the romance lodged in my heart. I know, it's too much to ask of a lot of books.
It's unbelievable that Casey would get the heavy suggestion she'd need to fake a relationship in order to maintain the interest of a business investor for her matchmaking business because she was ditched on her wedding day and that's bad romance juju. That said, it's crazy she believes she needs to go through with it. Therefore, she and her brother's bff Kent -- very dreamy and hunky, but emotionally semi-fragile from a fire that left his associate dead and himself recovering from fire injuries plus breakup with b**tchy ex-girlfriend -- agree to fake it. Even the small town setting seemed fake. Ultimately, the friends realize they are the perfect love match and the HEA comes to a picture perfect cinematic close.
Though, the book got a bit better after the 50% mark, I'm still giving 1.5 stars.
It's unbelievable that Casey would get the heavy suggestion she'd need to fake a relationship in order to maintain the interest of a business investor for her matchmaking business because she was ditched on her wedding day and that's bad romance juju. That said, it's crazy she believes she needs to go through with it. Therefore, she and her brother's bff Kent -- very dreamy and hunky, but emotionally semi-fragile from a fire that left his associate dead and himself recovering from fire injuries plus breakup with b**tchy ex-girlfriend -- agree to fake it. Even the small town setting seemed fake. Ultimately, the friends realize they are the perfect love match and the HEA comes to a picture perfect cinematic close.
Though, the book got a bit better after the 50% mark, I'm still giving 1.5 stars.
July 26, 2020
Casey was left at the alter by her groom. She runs a matchmaking business and as a result starts to lose clients. After she is approached by her investors, she asks one of her friends, Kent to be her fake boyfriend. He is also in need of help because he needs a date to his cousin's upcoming wedding where his ex will be in attendance. See, the thing is, he is a firefighter and was in an accident that killed a colleague and left him severely burned on his torso. The ex dumped him because she didn't want to be a caregiver (and wanted to be the one cared for).
This was a nice story about 2 friends who have always been close and realizing there could be something more. It did drag a little with both wanting more, but not telling the other person. There was, instead, misinterpretations of things that were said. Both come from supportive families. Casey has her parents, brothers (Rafferty, Lincoln, and Grayson), and grandmother and Kent has his parents. Both Casey's and Kent's mom are hilarious and were constantly encouraging the pair.
I read this for Ripped Bodice Summer Bingo and will use this for the Meddling Matchmakers square. I think it would also work for Dumped at a Wedding (even though it was before the book starts, it was the driving plot in this one and brought up multiple times).
This was a nice story about 2 friends who have always been close and realizing there could be something more. It did drag a little with both wanting more, but not telling the other person. There was, instead, misinterpretations of things that were said. Both come from supportive families. Casey has her parents, brothers (Rafferty, Lincoln, and Grayson), and grandmother and Kent has his parents. Both Casey's and Kent's mom are hilarious and were constantly encouraging the pair.
I read this for Ripped Bodice Summer Bingo and will use this for the Meddling Matchmakers square. I think it would also work for Dumped at a Wedding (even though it was before the book starts, it was the driving plot in this one and brought up multiple times).
January 28, 2017
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a 4 star for me. I loved Casey's character and her love of all things love. Kent was multi-dimensional and they were a good pair. The only thing that stumped me a bit was that I would've loved a bit more background into what happened between Kent and his ex. It was alluded too, but I feel like a clearer explanation, maybe in the form of a flashback would've been amazing and would've really given us a clear view into Kent's mindset. So much was built around his guilty feelings, that I feel like a bit clearer explanation would've given us that much more feeling for Kent. I think its a testament to Sonya's writing that I wanted MORE. :)
I really hope this is a series because Sonya has really set up such an amazing story for Lincoln and Josie - I absolutely love the enemies to lovers trope and I think this has all the makings for one hell of a story.
This was my first Sonja Weiss book and I really enjoyed it - I'm looking forward to going back and reading other things she has written.
This was a 4 star for me. I loved Casey's character and her love of all things love. Kent was multi-dimensional and they were a good pair. The only thing that stumped me a bit was that I would've loved a bit more background into what happened between Kent and his ex. It was alluded too, but I feel like a clearer explanation, maybe in the form of a flashback would've been amazing and would've really given us a clear view into Kent's mindset. So much was built around his guilty feelings, that I feel like a bit clearer explanation would've given us that much more feeling for Kent. I think its a testament to Sonya's writing that I wanted MORE. :)
I really hope this is a series because Sonya has really set up such an amazing story for Lincoln and Josie - I absolutely love the enemies to lovers trope and I think this has all the makings for one hell of a story.
This was my first Sonja Weiss book and I really enjoyed it - I'm looking forward to going back and reading other things she has written.
February 1, 2017
I received this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I started this book because I was having trouble engaging in another book and this book didn't waste time grabbing a hold and taking me on a journey. A friends to lovers seems to be catching my eye lately. I was crushed when the story begins and the Casey was left at the alter. When her best friend Kent swoops in to protect her from the fray, i was secretly hoping for more between them. But the two of them are stubborn and can't see what is meant to be. Well according to their mother's.
Kent has given up on relationships after being dumped because of an injury. So when Casey asks him to help her save her business he reluctantly agrees to the false relationship. But he can't deny the sparks and feelings that take ahold of him. But will he push her away or will it be too late.
This book is well written with laugh out loud moments. Sweet and savory moments between Casey and Kent and you may tear up with Kent's version of romance. Well done.
I started this book because I was having trouble engaging in another book and this book didn't waste time grabbing a hold and taking me on a journey. A friends to lovers seems to be catching my eye lately. I was crushed when the story begins and the Casey was left at the alter. When her best friend Kent swoops in to protect her from the fray, i was secretly hoping for more between them. But the two of them are stubborn and can't see what is meant to be. Well according to their mother's.
Kent has given up on relationships after being dumped because of an injury. So when Casey asks him to help her save her business he reluctantly agrees to the false relationship. But he can't deny the sparks and feelings that take ahold of him. But will he push her away or will it be too late.
This book is well written with laugh out loud moments. Sweet and savory moments between Casey and Kent and you may tear up with Kent's version of romance. Well done.
March 2, 2017
I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.
Wedding Date Rescue is the first book in a new series called Fire and Sparks by Sonya Weiss. This is also the first novel I've ever read by Ms. Weiss. While not my absolute favorite book, it did spark enough interest in me to want to read more of this series.
In this book, Kent and Casey fall into a fake romance that turns into something much more. But Kent has been left jaded by an old relationship and Casey just happens to be his best friend's little sister. That covers two pretty common romance novel tropes, but this story does manage to work in some of it's own originality and it's fun to follow along Kent and Casey's journey to happily ever after.
As the first book in a series, this novel also had to set up the characters and locations we will be reading about in future stories. I think it did a good job with that and I am actually looking forward to reading Lincoln's story next.
Wedding Date Rescue is the first book in a new series called Fire and Sparks by Sonya Weiss. This is also the first novel I've ever read by Ms. Weiss. While not my absolute favorite book, it did spark enough interest in me to want to read more of this series.
In this book, Kent and Casey fall into a fake romance that turns into something much more. But Kent has been left jaded by an old relationship and Casey just happens to be his best friend's little sister. That covers two pretty common romance novel tropes, but this story does manage to work in some of it's own originality and it's fun to follow along Kent and Casey's journey to happily ever after.
As the first book in a series, this novel also had to set up the characters and locations we will be reading about in future stories. I think it did a good job with that and I am actually looking forward to reading Lincoln's story next.
February 2, 2017
Oh my!!! What a talk to my heart and make me cry book! The love those two have is so amazing. U can feel every emotion. Every sting of the hearts
March 20, 2017
**3.5 Stars**
Four months have passed since Casey's wedding, well, it would've happened if jackhole, err Dominic, hadn't ran away five minutes before it began. Casey is healing, but living in a small town where everyone knows everything is hard. But it's pointed out that people are doubting her abilities to find love for them when her own ended so horribly and it's impacting business. She's warned if she doesn't want to close the company, then she needs a new "relationship."
"Rejection sucked, and even more so when it was rejection from someone who was supposed to be your forever guy." - Casey
When Casey finds herself in a precarious situation she knows she'll never live this down, and then, as if the whole thing isn't bad enough, her rescuer is none other than Kent, her brother, Lincoln's, best friend, and though she's always viewed him as one of hers as well, she's finding that harder to do today. The other thing she can't stop thinking about? Kent, with his commitment phobia thanks to his whackadoodle of an ex-girlfriend dumping him when he was injured last year, would be perfect for the part of her pretend boyfriend.
Kent, of course, at first thinks Casey has lost her mind due to everything that happened. However, he's suddenly no longer looking at her at just one of his friends and yeah, he likes what he sees. Though Kent quickly got her out of the church upon realizing what happened and spent hours with her afterwards, he knew Dominic was never good enough for her.
"He hoped that someday she would find a man who wouldn’t make the same stupid mistake Dominic had made. He frowned at the sour taste that thought left in his mouth." - Kent
"When Kent did find the right woman, he would be a great husband and eventually a great father. She pictured herself as a guest at Kent’s wedding, and her appetite vanished." - Casey
But Kent begins to think he and Casey can help each other out. His cousin is getting married soon and he's a groomsmen. He knows his mother will continue the "you need a date" parade she's already started sending his way, along with the "I need grandkids" speech and if he attends with Casey... Factor in he just learned from his Mom that his ex is coming to town for the wedding, and not wanting to deal with any pitying looks, Kent decides Casey's idea doesn't seem as crazy as it once did.
"They were partners in a mutually beneficial fake-ship, and it was better that he didn’t lose his head and forget that." - Kent
"Just focus on pretending you’re mine, and I’ll do the same.” - Kent
What happens when Kent accepts Casey's proposition? What will they do when people begin speculating their relationship is fake? Can Kent and Casey remain only friends as they're pretending to be more? Why, all of a sudden, are Kent and Casey viewing each other as a man and woman, and sexy ones at that? Will Kent's ex try to win him back? Will Casey admit she's falling for another friend after what happened with Dominic? Will Kent realize his feelings for Casey have always been there? How will Kent react when his insecurities reappear thanks to his spiteful ex? Can he prove to Casey he truly wants to be with her? Will Casey forgive him?
"There were things about Kent that were sliding into place like long-lost pieces from a jigsaw puzzle." - Casey
One-click now and follow the path of two lifelong friends as they start a fake relationship and realize their love has always been real. I'm hoping Lincoln and Josie, Casey's brother and best friend respectively, are the couple in the next book.
On a purely personal note, there wasn't any clarification on if Kent had been with anyone since his ex left him and I wish there had been. We do know his relationships tended to be short-term, but again, was that before, including, or after the ex? Although I think, based upon something Kent's ex said, that Casey may be the first relationship after her because she taunted Casey with being just a rebound. Also, if the whole point of the fake relationship is to save her business by showing she can find her own man after being left at the altar, what happens when said man and she then "break up" as was the plan after saving her business? She'll just have the same dilemma all over again, at least in the eyes of her investors and potential clients, except this time she'll have two failed relationships.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Four months have passed since Casey's wedding, well, it would've happened if jackhole, err Dominic, hadn't ran away five minutes before it began. Casey is healing, but living in a small town where everyone knows everything is hard. But it's pointed out that people are doubting her abilities to find love for them when her own ended so horribly and it's impacting business. She's warned if she doesn't want to close the company, then she needs a new "relationship."
"Rejection sucked, and even more so when it was rejection from someone who was supposed to be your forever guy." - Casey
When Casey finds herself in a precarious situation she knows she'll never live this down, and then, as if the whole thing isn't bad enough, her rescuer is none other than Kent, her brother, Lincoln's, best friend, and though she's always viewed him as one of hers as well, she's finding that harder to do today. The other thing she can't stop thinking about? Kent, with his commitment phobia thanks to his whackadoodle of an ex-girlfriend dumping him when he was injured last year, would be perfect for the part of her pretend boyfriend.
Kent, of course, at first thinks Casey has lost her mind due to everything that happened. However, he's suddenly no longer looking at her at just one of his friends and yeah, he likes what he sees. Though Kent quickly got her out of the church upon realizing what happened and spent hours with her afterwards, he knew Dominic was never good enough for her.
"He hoped that someday she would find a man who wouldn’t make the same stupid mistake Dominic had made. He frowned at the sour taste that thought left in his mouth." - Kent
"When Kent did find the right woman, he would be a great husband and eventually a great father. She pictured herself as a guest at Kent’s wedding, and her appetite vanished." - Casey
But Kent begins to think he and Casey can help each other out. His cousin is getting married soon and he's a groomsmen. He knows his mother will continue the "you need a date" parade she's already started sending his way, along with the "I need grandkids" speech and if he attends with Casey... Factor in he just learned from his Mom that his ex is coming to town for the wedding, and not wanting to deal with any pitying looks, Kent decides Casey's idea doesn't seem as crazy as it once did.
"They were partners in a mutually beneficial fake-ship, and it was better that he didn’t lose his head and forget that." - Kent
"Just focus on pretending you’re mine, and I’ll do the same.” - Kent
What happens when Kent accepts Casey's proposition? What will they do when people begin speculating their relationship is fake? Can Kent and Casey remain only friends as they're pretending to be more? Why, all of a sudden, are Kent and Casey viewing each other as a man and woman, and sexy ones at that? Will Kent's ex try to win him back? Will Casey admit she's falling for another friend after what happened with Dominic? Will Kent realize his feelings for Casey have always been there? How will Kent react when his insecurities reappear thanks to his spiteful ex? Can he prove to Casey he truly wants to be with her? Will Casey forgive him?
"There were things about Kent that were sliding into place like long-lost pieces from a jigsaw puzzle." - Casey
One-click now and follow the path of two lifelong friends as they start a fake relationship and realize their love has always been real. I'm hoping Lincoln and Josie, Casey's brother and best friend respectively, are the couple in the next book.
On a purely personal note, there wasn't any clarification on if Kent had been with anyone since his ex left him and I wish there had been. We do know his relationships tended to be short-term, but again, was that before, including, or after the ex? Although I think, based upon something Kent's ex said, that Casey may be the first relationship after her because she taunted Casey with being just a rebound. Also, if the whole point of the fake relationship is to save her business by showing she can find her own man after being left at the altar, what happens when said man and she then "break up" as was the plan after saving her business? She'll just have the same dilemma all over again, at least in the eyes of her investors and potential clients, except this time she'll have two failed relationships.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
July 9, 2017
Casey runs a matchmaking service helping women find their Mr. Right. But Casey”s future husband leaves her at the alter. It is bad for her business Casey has to do something to keep her company as her investors and backers are threatening to back out of her company. Casey needs a fake boyfriend/ but she doesn’t want to lie. She thinks her brother’s best friend Kent and colleague firefighter is ideal for the job. Especially after he rescued Casey from a tree, hey have always been friends and Kent came to her rescue several times. Kent was involved in a rescue where his colleague died and he was badly burnt. Casey had been a faithful friend helping him fight to recover especially after his girlfriend dumped him.Casey cares for Kent and wants to protect him and Kent really cares about Casey and he worries about her with all she has been through When Casey asks Kent to be her pretend boyfriend he initially declines. But then his matchmaking mother wants to find a date for Kent for his cousin’s wedding and Kent says he has a date - Casey. As Kent starts out as Casey’s fake boyfriend they find they are attracted to each other but both resist it as they both had been badly hurt before. Kent’s mom kept setting him up with single women he didn’t want. Casey’s ex fiance was Dominic and they had been friends before they started dating. Ken’t ex girlfriend is coming back to town and going to his cousin’s wedding. The last both Casey and Kent want is a relationship. Casey had always been off limits as Casey was his best friend's sister.
This was a great story. I loved the plot and the pace. I laughed out loud while reading. This was a fun quick read. I loved how Casey and Kent were such caring friends at first. I didn’t want to put this down. This had no problem keeping my attention. I choked up at times. I would have liked more background on both Casey and Kent. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this story and i highly recommend.
This was a great story. I loved the plot and the pace. I laughed out loud while reading. This was a fun quick read. I loved how Casey and Kent were such caring friends at first. I didn’t want to put this down. This had no problem keeping my attention. I choked up at times. I would have liked more background on both Casey and Kent. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this story and i highly recommend.
March 5, 2018
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Kent was amazing. He was kind, gentle, funny and sweet. Perfect for Casey. And you could tell that he has loved her for years and denied it. Now though he is afraid. Since his horrible spiteful ex left him and what she said to him when she came back for a wedding he has felt he isn’t worthy of love or a relationship. He harbored guilt over Aiden. Guilt that he had a hard time letting go of.
Casey was fun, sweet and easygoing. Her and Kent and a fun relationship that spanned from babies to now. They both you can tell always had a thing for each other but denied it. Now she needs his help and he is not one to want to give it for she needs a fake boyfriend. When his ex is back and his mom is trying to fix him up he agrees and our fun begins.
Their time together is just fun. They get along so well and their ribbing of each other is good natured. And as they go out they start to realize their feelings. For Kent it confuses and scares him. For Casey she is afraid he won’t want what she does. Only they are both afraid. When they finally give in we see such a sweet moment after that you awww..than the wedding and ugh Kent’s insecurities take over and it is Casey’s brother who has him see straight. Now he does the most romantic thing and it has you swoon.
The story is sweet and fun. Just a feel good romance that has you smile the whole time and love the meddling moms and the grandma who is a hoot. The brothers who are so sweet and protective and Kent and Casey that are perfect for one another.
Kent was amazing. He was kind, gentle, funny and sweet. Perfect for Casey. And you could tell that he has loved her for years and denied it. Now though he is afraid. Since his horrible spiteful ex left him and what she said to him when she came back for a wedding he has felt he isn’t worthy of love or a relationship. He harbored guilt over Aiden. Guilt that he had a hard time letting go of.
Casey was fun, sweet and easygoing. Her and Kent and a fun relationship that spanned from babies to now. They both you can tell always had a thing for each other but denied it. Now she needs his help and he is not one to want to give it for she needs a fake boyfriend. When his ex is back and his mom is trying to fix him up he agrees and our fun begins.
Their time together is just fun. They get along so well and their ribbing of each other is good natured. And as they go out they start to realize their feelings. For Kent it confuses and scares him. For Casey she is afraid he won’t want what she does. Only they are both afraid. When they finally give in we see such a sweet moment after that you awww..than the wedding and ugh Kent’s insecurities take over and it is Casey’s brother who has him see straight. Now he does the most romantic thing and it has you swoon.
The story is sweet and fun. Just a feel good romance that has you smile the whole time and love the meddling moms and the grandma who is a hoot. The brothers who are so sweet and protective and Kent and Casey that are perfect for one another.
January 31, 2017
This was a quick, light-hearted read. I did feel it was a bit rushed in places, especially the beginning, and had trouble feeling the chemistry between the two main characters at first, but they grew on me.
Casey is a matchmaker who has recently been stood up at the altar by her to-be husband and now her business is losing clients because of it. Her business partners aren't happy and so she needs a fake boyfriend fast to regain her credibility and so they don't pull their investment. Her brother's best friend, Kent, isn't interested in a relationship with anyone as he had an accident (he's a firefighter) and his girlfriend walked out on him because she couldn't deal with it. He's fine now but very anti-romantic entanglements. His Mum is throwing available females at him and so when Casey suggests they have a mutually beneficial fake relationship he initially refused, but then accepted to help them both, especially as his ex-girlfriend was back in town.
Of course things change as they both realise they have more feelings for each other than they initially thought. They've known each other since they were babies so have always been friends but nothing more, especially as Casey's three older brothers are quite protective.
I felt as though it just skated along the surface of the story and could have gone into just a little bit more depth, but it was a pleasant read.
Casey is a matchmaker who has recently been stood up at the altar by her to-be husband and now her business is losing clients because of it. Her business partners aren't happy and so she needs a fake boyfriend fast to regain her credibility and so they don't pull their investment. Her brother's best friend, Kent, isn't interested in a relationship with anyone as he had an accident (he's a firefighter) and his girlfriend walked out on him because she couldn't deal with it. He's fine now but very anti-romantic entanglements. His Mum is throwing available females at him and so when Casey suggests they have a mutually beneficial fake relationship he initially refused, but then accepted to help them both, especially as his ex-girlfriend was back in town.
Of course things change as they both realise they have more feelings for each other than they initially thought. They've known each other since they were babies so have always been friends but nothing more, especially as Casey's three older brothers are quite protective.
I felt as though it just skated along the surface of the story and could have gone into just a little bit more depth, but it was a pleasant read.
February 28, 2017
Wedding Date Rescue was a story that I truly enjoyed. In fact, I was a bit upset that it wasn't longer as I didn't want it to be over. Casey has been humiliated by being left at the alter, and as she lives in a small town, everyone knows, and talks about her humiliation. Kent has been burned by love physically, and mentally, which means he has no desire to ever be in a relationship again. So when Casey tries to talk him into a fake relationship, he's still very leery about even that. Since this is a quick read, I'm not giving anymore details, so you will just have to read it on your own. Sonya Weiss has a talented writing style that captivated me fully from the very beginning. Her characters are very easy to love, and some well placed humor had me laughing (especially from match making families). My chief complaint is that the ending seemed rushed, as I needed bigger, and more. Anyway, I will be reading this author in the future, and HIGHLY RECOMMEND an entertaining book about a yummy fireman!
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