What do you think?
Rate this book
Whisper Creek #6
Taking a Chance
A fun-loving troublemaker gives a workaholic Southern gal a real taste of Montana magic at the one and only Whisper Creek Ranch.
A rising star in the corporate world, Emma Winthrop enjoys the view from her cubicle in sunny Florida. But when she’s dispatched to a nursing home in Whisper Creek for three months of field experience, she discovers a slice of heaven made of mountains and mayhem—mostly in the form of rugged, drop-dead gorgeous Jasper Stone, who grinds his specialty beans at the town’s best coffee shop in between organizing dodge-ball games and wheelchair races in Emma’s hallways.
When Jasper walks in on this beautiful angel in silky purple underwear trying to rinse out her blouse, it’s a breathtaking view—even for a Montana native. Wreaking havoc here at Shady Acres keeps his dad in good spirits, but getting under Emma’s skin is proving to be even more fun. Jasper knows that he’s falling faster than a man with his past has any right to, but his body and his heart have a mind of their own. And Emma appears to be claiming both.
A rising star in the corporate world, Emma Winthrop enjoys the view from her cubicle in sunny Florida. But when she’s dispatched to a nursing home in Whisper Creek for three months of field experience, she discovers a slice of heaven made of mountains and mayhem—mostly in the form of rugged, drop-dead gorgeous Jasper Stone, who grinds his specialty beans at the town’s best coffee shop in between organizing dodge-ball games and wheelchair races in Emma’s hallways.
When Jasper walks in on this beautiful angel in silky purple underwear trying to rinse out her blouse, it’s a breathtaking view—even for a Montana native. Wreaking havoc here at Shady Acres keeps his dad in good spirits, but getting under Emma’s skin is proving to be even more fun. Jasper knows that he’s falling faster than a man with his past has any right to, but his body and his heart have a mind of their own. And Emma appears to be claiming both.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2017
34 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
November 3, 2017
DNF @ 54%
I took a chance, and sadly it was a waste of time. I have had mixed luck with this authors books of late, the last few sadly being misses, but this one was so far past the mark it wasn't even a blur on the horizon.
Over halfway through the book, and absolutely nothing had happened and I really mean nothing, the author was that thin on plot she threw in kittens just to while away a chapter, where nothing apart from that happened either.
It was a wasted visit to Whisper Creek sadly, because I have generally managed to find something positive in all of my past visits but I have got absolutely nothing this time.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
I took a chance, and sadly it was a waste of time. I have had mixed luck with this authors books of late, the last few sadly being misses, but this one was so far past the mark it wasn't even a blur on the horizon.
Over halfway through the book, and absolutely nothing had happened and I really mean nothing, the author was that thin on plot she threw in kittens just to while away a chapter, where nothing apart from that happened either.
It was a wasted visit to Whisper Creek sadly, because I have generally managed to find something positive in all of my past visits but I have got absolutely nothing this time.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
January 19, 2018
Totally sweet romance! Loved the characters and storyline.
November 6, 2017
3.5 stars
I had read another book in this series and had enjoyed it, plus I really liked this synopsis, so I was eager to get to it.
I really liked Emma and Jasper. She’s spunky and sweet and he’s charming and goofy. They’re also really good people with similar backstories. Of course I loved the dynamic at the ranch and seeing the characters I was familiar with.
Plot wise, it was good. I was interested in what was happening and I enjoyed seeing Emma and Jasper grow. My main complaint is that I didn’t see much chemistry between them. Yes, they talk and go out a few times, but there are {I think} two kisses and one fade to black and it felt more like they were friends more than anything else.
Overall, it was a quick read and the characters are fantastic. I loved the ending and the epilogue and I’m seriously thinking about reading the previous books.
**Huge thanks to Loveswept for providing the arc free of charge**
I had read another book in this series and had enjoyed it, plus I really liked this synopsis, so I was eager to get to it.
I really liked Emma and Jasper. She’s spunky and sweet and he’s charming and goofy. They’re also really good people with similar backstories. Of course I loved the dynamic at the ranch and seeing the characters I was familiar with.
Plot wise, it was good. I was interested in what was happening and I enjoyed seeing Emma and Jasper grow. My main complaint is that I didn’t see much chemistry between them. Yes, they talk and go out a few times, but there are {I think} two kisses and one fade to black and it felt more like they were friends more than anything else.
Overall, it was a quick read and the characters are fantastic. I loved the ending and the epilogue and I’m seriously thinking about reading the previous books.
**Huge thanks to Loveswept for providing the arc free of charge**
November 24, 2019
Taking a Chance was a fun romance with a beautiful setting and characters looking for a second chance at happiness.
Emma Winthrop is a star on the rise in the corporate office of one of the country’s leading nursing home companies when she is sent to Whisper Creek, Montana for three months of field experience. Life in Whisper Creek is entirely different than her life in Florida, but Emma discovers a sense of peace in the mountains. The only distraction is Jasper Stone, the son of a resident who wreaks havoc at the nursing home to keep the residents’ spirits up. Jasper and Emma soon find themselves falling for each other despite the uncertainty of the future.
Taking a Chance is the sixth book in the Whisper Creek series and the first one I’ve read. The book works well as a standalone and you don’t need to have read the previous books to read this one. The only thing missing was more backstory for the side characters, but the author does a good job recapping who everyone is in this book.
Emma is the definition of a workaholic and believes that if she simply dedicates enough time, she’ll be given that management position she’s after. When instead of the promotion she’s expecting she’s sent to Montana, Emma is uncertain of where she stands at her company. Emma is truly dedicated to bettering the lives of the residents at the nursing home and she is constantly proposing new innovative ideas to better their lives. Despite the positive attitude she displays, she does have a bit of a darker past and there are a number of issues in her family.
Jasper initially moved to Whisper Creek to escape the tragedies of his past and has spent the past few years running his coffee shop and spending time with his father. Prior to his move, Jasper was a high-powered lawyer who put even Emma’s workaholic tendencies to shame. Now, Jasper believes in making time for the important things in life and thinks a person needs to have more in life than a job. As a result, he’s a very easy going person and tries to make sure the residents at the nursing home are enjoying their lives.
Emma and Jasper had great chemistry right from the start and they build a good friendship before things move to the next level. They’re able to easily talk to each other about what matters in life and find themselves opening up with each other in ways they never have before. This book is definitely on the cleaner side when it comes to the romance as the one and only sex scene occurs off page. Personally I prefer my romances on the more steamier and explicit side, so that aspect didn’t work for me very well. Sadly, one of my most hated tropes in contemporary romances occurred which did lessen my enjoyment of the romance.
Overall, I did really enjoy Taking a Chance and it would have received a 4 star rating from me if not for the aforementioned spoiler. As that’s a personal preference issue, I would definitely recommend Taking a Chance if you’re in the mood for a quick contemporary romance.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Emma Winthrop is a star on the rise in the corporate office of one of the country’s leading nursing home companies when she is sent to Whisper Creek, Montana for three months of field experience. Life in Whisper Creek is entirely different than her life in Florida, but Emma discovers a sense of peace in the mountains. The only distraction is Jasper Stone, the son of a resident who wreaks havoc at the nursing home to keep the residents’ spirits up. Jasper and Emma soon find themselves falling for each other despite the uncertainty of the future.
Taking a Chance is the sixth book in the Whisper Creek series and the first one I’ve read. The book works well as a standalone and you don’t need to have read the previous books to read this one. The only thing missing was more backstory for the side characters, but the author does a good job recapping who everyone is in this book.
Emma is the definition of a workaholic and believes that if she simply dedicates enough time, she’ll be given that management position she’s after. When instead of the promotion she’s expecting she’s sent to Montana, Emma is uncertain of where she stands at her company. Emma is truly dedicated to bettering the lives of the residents at the nursing home and she is constantly proposing new innovative ideas to better their lives. Despite the positive attitude she displays, she does have a bit of a darker past and there are a number of issues in her family.
Jasper initially moved to Whisper Creek to escape the tragedies of his past and has spent the past few years running his coffee shop and spending time with his father. Prior to his move, Jasper was a high-powered lawyer who put even Emma’s workaholic tendencies to shame. Now, Jasper believes in making time for the important things in life and thinks a person needs to have more in life than a job. As a result, he’s a very easy going person and tries to make sure the residents at the nursing home are enjoying their lives.
Emma and Jasper had great chemistry right from the start and they build a good friendship before things move to the next level. They’re able to easily talk to each other about what matters in life and find themselves opening up with each other in ways they never have before. This book is definitely on the cleaner side when it comes to the romance as the one and only sex scene occurs off page. Personally I prefer my romances on the more steamier and explicit side, so that aspect didn’t work for me very well. Sadly, one of my most hated tropes in contemporary romances occurred which did lessen my enjoyment of the romance.
Overall, I did really enjoy Taking a Chance and it would have received a 4 star rating from me if not for the aforementioned spoiler. As that’s a personal preference issue, I would definitely recommend Taking a Chance if you’re in the mood for a quick contemporary romance.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
January 2, 2018
3.5 Stars
I was pleasantly surprised by this sweet hallmark-y romance! I didn't know this was the 6th in a series when I started so there was a whole cast of characters I didn't know, but that didn't effect my enjoyment. There was coffee, a hot bachelor, soup, kittens, horses, loads of sweet oldies at the nursing home, and an adorable heroine. I loved the setting of a picturesque town in Montana. I really did agree with Emma that Jasper seemed too good to be true at first. But he had his own baggage and troubled past and she did as well. But they were put in each other's paths for a reason and they had to learn not to overthink a good thing.
I must admit it was refreshing to read a sweet, no-drama story high on chemistry but low on steam. I like steamy reads, but not all the time. This was my first book by Maggie McGinnis and I would definitely read more!
October 10, 2017
OMG!! I love Whisper Creek and all its residents! Jasper and Emma's story did not disappoint and is so much FUN! I was LOLing from the first line. Jasper and Emma's story is heartfelt with a little touch of sadness at times BUT mostly fun! Emma is a strong woman that just needs someone to believe in her and she finds that someone in Jasper. A great romance not to be missed!!
September 18, 2017
Fantastic and amazing storyline ! I loved Jasper and Emma.
Maggie McGinnis I enjoyed and loved and was spell bound with "Taking a Chance" so much I don't know what else really to say right now !
Maggie McGinnis I enjoyed and loved and was spell bound with "Taking a Chance" so much I don't know what else really to say right now !
November 7, 2017
3.5 stars
August 18, 2017
Returning to Whisper Creek is so exciting! Maggie McGinnis writes with such imagery that I can see the beauty of Montana through these pages. I have a newfound desire to visit just to experience this first hand- and not just the cowboys : )!
Jasper was someone I was interested in while reading the other books in this series. I was anxious to know his story! He arrives in Carefree with a tragic past trying to start over. Owning the beloved coffee shop is only a tip of what makes up this extraordinary man. Jasper gives back so much to his community and takes care of so many. His father is in the local nursing home and Jasper spends most of his days there being a jack-of-all- trades assisting in whatever ways he is needed. When he barges in on the new, temporary director, Jasper sees "purple". Again, McGinnis is so good with her use of imagery I couldn't help but picturing each grin and wink Jasper flashed.
Emma Winthrop is pushed from the corporate nest in Florida and sent to be hands on Montana. Having her coffee dumped all over her, flashing her VS to a handsome stranger and inheriting a mountain of paperwork sums up her first day perfectly. When said sexy stranger ends up being the Shady Acres menace to society Emma has her hands full. Not only with Jasper, but with the facility itself as Bette, whom she is standing in for, has made things none to easy for her.
The first 35% of this book focuses on the nursing home and its funny, loving residents. Slow down and take your time reading this portion as it is fun, heartwarming and shows the true qualities of both Emma and Jasper. Also, Emma being thrown in the fire so to speak and not focusing on her climb up the corporate ladder, she learns that the home office might not have a real grasp on what exactly is needed for the people they serve. I loved the characters of Shady Acres. Each had such strong personalities and reminded you that they weren't people set aside- or put out to pasture- but capable, smart, and loving and mostly deserving of more from the home office.
Jasper and Emma have such chemistry between them and struggle to set it aside- neither wanting to acknowledge it. When the beauty of the mountains and the water of Whisper Creek ranch force these two to knock down the walls and be vulnerable with one another sparks fly. Well, that is until the next morning when Jasper becomes a jerk. Not really, he is too good of a person to be a jerk, but he does completely flake out on Emma. Emma had bared her soul to Jasper and feels rejected by his snub.
This part of the story becomes so emotional and- might I add- tearful. Emma's story is absolutely heartbreaking. She is devastated and Jasper is scared as he is reminded of the great secret in his past. As always, keeping secrets just hurt others and cause him to pull away. Does distance make the heart grow founder? Make you see exactly what the heart is feeling?
I loved the book, but the last several chapters were just awesome. I laughed, I cried,I worried and then I laughed and cried! Liam? Please?
Jasper was someone I was interested in while reading the other books in this series. I was anxious to know his story! He arrives in Carefree with a tragic past trying to start over. Owning the beloved coffee shop is only a tip of what makes up this extraordinary man. Jasper gives back so much to his community and takes care of so many. His father is in the local nursing home and Jasper spends most of his days there being a jack-of-all- trades assisting in whatever ways he is needed. When he barges in on the new, temporary director, Jasper sees "purple". Again, McGinnis is so good with her use of imagery I couldn't help but picturing each grin and wink Jasper flashed.
Emma Winthrop is pushed from the corporate nest in Florida and sent to be hands on Montana. Having her coffee dumped all over her, flashing her VS to a handsome stranger and inheriting a mountain of paperwork sums up her first day perfectly. When said sexy stranger ends up being the Shady Acres menace to society Emma has her hands full. Not only with Jasper, but with the facility itself as Bette, whom she is standing in for, has made things none to easy for her.
The first 35% of this book focuses on the nursing home and its funny, loving residents. Slow down and take your time reading this portion as it is fun, heartwarming and shows the true qualities of both Emma and Jasper. Also, Emma being thrown in the fire so to speak and not focusing on her climb up the corporate ladder, she learns that the home office might not have a real grasp on what exactly is needed for the people they serve. I loved the characters of Shady Acres. Each had such strong personalities and reminded you that they weren't people set aside- or put out to pasture- but capable, smart, and loving and mostly deserving of more from the home office.
Jasper and Emma have such chemistry between them and struggle to set it aside- neither wanting to acknowledge it. When the beauty of the mountains and the water of Whisper Creek ranch force these two to knock down the walls and be vulnerable with one another sparks fly. Well, that is until the next morning when Jasper becomes a jerk. Not really, he is too good of a person to be a jerk, but he does completely flake out on Emma. Emma had bared her soul to Jasper and feels rejected by his snub.
This part of the story becomes so emotional and- might I add- tearful. Emma's story is absolutely heartbreaking. She is devastated and Jasper is scared as he is reminded of the great secret in his past. As always, keeping secrets just hurt others and cause him to pull away. Does distance make the heart grow founder? Make you see exactly what the heart is feeling?
I loved the book, but the last several chapters were just awesome. I laughed, I cried,I worried and then I laughed and cried! Liam? Please?
October 23, 2017
Emma and Jasper meet when she is sent to Whisper Creek as the new temporary nursing home director where his father is a resident. Jasper is known for his unorthodox games and his genuine interest in all the patients at the home. Jasper goes there every morning to have breakfast with his father, comes back when he can for lunch and sometimes joins him for dinner.
Emma is from Florida and the mountains and weather in Montana is foreign to her. She is a stickler for rules and does not take kindly to the state of the office she is left with. She quickly learns that she needs to be more hands-on and less in her office. She thinks this job is the step she needs to obtain her goal of a promotion within her company. She realizes that the staff doesn't trust her at first and finds Jasper to be aloof at the beginning. She also fights her attraction and you wouldn't know either one of them is in their mid-30's by their actions.
Jasper has baggage a mile wide and just as long. He thinks he needs to pay penance for what happened to his wife in the past. His friends and father all try to get him to see that he should be living life and not feeling constant guilt. He used to be a high-powered lawyer and now owns and runs his own coffee shop. He finds his life to be stable and is comfortable with it. Emma's presence threatens that stability and he doesn't always react well.
Emma had her own secrets and baggage and both had similar heartache in their past. Emma found herself falling for Jasper, even though she knew better. When things seem to be on an even keel finally, Jasper has second thoughts and Emma is left trying to move on. She learns part of Jasper's past and tries to understand where he is coming from. I liked how Emma picked herself up and moved forward. She still kept moving forward with her goals. When something unexpected happens, Emma finds herself reeling yet again. She had valid reasons for her reaction and I understood it. Jasper needed to man up and not let his past define him anymore. You will have to read the book to find out what transpires between these two. It was a quick, easy read.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Emma is from Florida and the mountains and weather in Montana is foreign to her. She is a stickler for rules and does not take kindly to the state of the office she is left with. She quickly learns that she needs to be more hands-on and less in her office. She thinks this job is the step she needs to obtain her goal of a promotion within her company. She realizes that the staff doesn't trust her at first and finds Jasper to be aloof at the beginning. She also fights her attraction and you wouldn't know either one of them is in their mid-30's by their actions.
Jasper has baggage a mile wide and just as long. He thinks he needs to pay penance for what happened to his wife in the past. His friends and father all try to get him to see that he should be living life and not feeling constant guilt. He used to be a high-powered lawyer and now owns and runs his own coffee shop. He finds his life to be stable and is comfortable with it. Emma's presence threatens that stability and he doesn't always react well.
Emma had her own secrets and baggage and both had similar heartache in their past. Emma found herself falling for Jasper, even though she knew better. When things seem to be on an even keel finally, Jasper has second thoughts and Emma is left trying to move on. She learns part of Jasper's past and tries to understand where he is coming from. I liked how Emma picked herself up and moved forward. She still kept moving forward with her goals. When something unexpected happens, Emma finds herself reeling yet again. She had valid reasons for her reaction and I understood it. Jasper needed to man up and not let his past define him anymore. You will have to read the book to find out what transpires between these two. It was a quick, easy read.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
November 7, 2017
Sweet. Swoon worthy and a ton of fun! Emma and Jasper are impossible to not fall in love with.
Taking a Chance follows the story of Emma and Jasper. Emma is a workaholic who lives in sunny Florida. She loves her life and isn’t too pleased when she finds herself temporarily transferred to Montana. Montana is unlike anything she’s experienced and when Jasper enters her life, truer words were never spoken. Jasper is wild and always up to no good. He loves to have fun and can’t resist getting under Emma’s skin. What he never planned on was falling for Emma himself….
Overall, I thought this book was a lot of fun. It was heartwarming and a total breath of fresh air. I thought that this story was really well written and was totally easy to get swept up in. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and falling in love with their story. I loved the setting of this story and thought the plot was a lot of fun. Emma and Jasper had great chemistry and they kept me coming back for more. This is my first book by this author and I look forward to discovering more of her books in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
Taking a Chance follows the story of Emma and Jasper. Emma is a workaholic who lives in sunny Florida. She loves her life and isn’t too pleased when she finds herself temporarily transferred to Montana. Montana is unlike anything she’s experienced and when Jasper enters her life, truer words were never spoken. Jasper is wild and always up to no good. He loves to have fun and can’t resist getting under Emma’s skin. What he never planned on was falling for Emma himself….
Overall, I thought this book was a lot of fun. It was heartwarming and a total breath of fresh air. I thought that this story was really well written and was totally easy to get swept up in. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and falling in love with their story. I loved the setting of this story and thought the plot was a lot of fun. Emma and Jasper had great chemistry and they kept me coming back for more. This is my first book by this author and I look forward to discovering more of her books in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
May 30, 2018
Whisper Creek rises again! Maggie McGinnis just keeps getting better and this latest novel is the best one yet! I lovelovelove the chemistry between the two characters - and I'm gonna be drinking some of that Whiskey creek water soon!
I was never a cowboy or ranch romance girl - i know that's gonna stick in some readers' craws, but I said I WASN"T for a reason. But then I started reading Maggie's books and I AM A CONVERT. GImme a cowboy, a ranch hand, or a barristo or anyone who works on or near WHISKEY CREEK!!! 5 well deserved stars and thank you to Netgalley for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest opinion.
I was never a cowboy or ranch romance girl - i know that's gonna stick in some readers' craws, but I said I WASN"T for a reason. But then I started reading Maggie's books and I AM A CONVERT. GImme a cowboy, a ranch hand, or a barristo or anyone who works on or near WHISKEY CREEK!!! 5 well deserved stars and thank you to Netgalley for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest opinion.
November 8, 2017
Once again, I fell in love with Whisper Creek ... Le freaking sigh!!
Every time I read a Whisper Creek novel, I caught up with the beautiful scenery places, the mountains, the cowboys, the amazing Driscoll family, and the greatest thing, it just felt like home to me.
I really hope there will be another book soon. Like really soon!!
Drink the water, take the chance and never leave, let Whisper Creek work its magic!
** ARC kindly provided for an honest review. **
This is not a secret, I adored Maggie McGinnis’ Whisper Creek series. There is definitely something in this series that makes me feel like home every time. Once I finished Taking a Chance, I binged read the first two of the series.
Damn it was so good.
Workaholic owning a coffee shop, Jasper meets his my match by the lovely and full of life, Emma, the new interim director of his father’s nursing home. One first awkward encounter later and these two were already feeling something they haven’t felt in a long time. Ah Whisper Creek, the place where the lonely hearts find their home.
As the slow burn romance started and the main characters were both working through their issues and scars, the magic was happening, not with a little fight, but still it was such an amazing thing.
I’m gonna repeat myself, this the kind of book that I can read all over again. The characters are genuine, the storyline is keeping me captivated and the world created is just appealing, these stories about family, friendship that melt and warmed my heart.
Jasper and Emma, two lonely hearts who were afraid to open up to others but ended in this special place, in the middle of nowhere, where love is definitely not on the plan. Okay, the cowboy thing is sexy, but it wasn’t just like that. Sure it was portrayed like all the hotties were gathered all in the same place and that freaking calendar that I would love to see one day… I know a girl can dream….
But when it comes to Maggie McGinnis writing, I can't resist, because she told stories about characters that could be seen very proper firsthand but it wasn’t, they weren’t like they seemed to be, just scratching the surface and getting to know them more.
I didn’t need something spectacular or show off, I wanted something that felt real, heartwarming. I loved how the author could write contemporary romance, with sincerity, simplicity but always with heart and I couldn’t not take a chance on that book.
Every time I read a Whisper Creek novel, I caught up with the beautiful scenery places, the mountains, the cowboys, the amazing Driscoll family, and the greatest thing, it just felt like home to me.
I really hope there will be another book soon. Like really soon!!
Drink the water, take the chance and never leave, let Whisper Creek work its magic!
** ARC kindly provided for an honest review. **
This is not a secret, I adored Maggie McGinnis’ Whisper Creek series. There is definitely something in this series that makes me feel like home every time. Once I finished Taking a Chance, I binged read the first two of the series.
Damn it was so good.
Workaholic owning a coffee shop, Jasper meets his my match by the lovely and full of life, Emma, the new interim director of his father’s nursing home. One first awkward encounter later and these two were already feeling something they haven’t felt in a long time. Ah Whisper Creek, the place where the lonely hearts find their home.
As the slow burn romance started and the main characters were both working through their issues and scars, the magic was happening, not with a little fight, but still it was such an amazing thing.
I’m gonna repeat myself, this the kind of book that I can read all over again. The characters are genuine, the storyline is keeping me captivated and the world created is just appealing, these stories about family, friendship that melt and warmed my heart.
Jasper and Emma, two lonely hearts who were afraid to open up to others but ended in this special place, in the middle of nowhere, where love is definitely not on the plan. Okay, the cowboy thing is sexy, but it wasn’t just like that. Sure it was portrayed like all the hotties were gathered all in the same place and that freaking calendar that I would love to see one day… I know a girl can dream….
But when it comes to Maggie McGinnis writing, I can't resist, because she told stories about characters that could be seen very proper firsthand but it wasn’t, they weren’t like they seemed to be, just scratching the surface and getting to know them more.
I didn’t need something spectacular or show off, I wanted something that felt real, heartwarming. I loved how the author could write contemporary romance, with sincerity, simplicity but always with heart and I couldn’t not take a chance on that book.
October 22, 2017
Book Info
ebook, 256 pages
Expected publication: November 7th 2017 by Loveswept
Original Title Taking a Chance
ISBN 1101967781 (ISBN13: 9781101967782)
Edition Language English
Series Whisper Creek #6
Other Editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon
B&N
A fun-loving troublemaker gives a workaholic Southern gal a real taste of Montana magic at the one and only Whisper Creek Ranch.
A rising star in the corporate world, Emma Winthrop enjoys the view from her cubicle in sunny Florida. But when she’s dispatched to a nursing home in Whisper Creek for three months of field experience, she discovers a slice of heaven made of mountains and mayhem—mostly in the form of rugged, drop-dead gorgeous Jasper Stone, who grinds his specialty beans at the town’s best coffee shop in between organizing dodge-ball games and wheelchair races in Emma’s hallways.
When Jasper walks in on this beautiful angel in silky purple underwear trying to rinse out her blouse, it’s a breathtaking view—even for a Montana native. Wreaking havoc here at Shady Acres keeps his dad in good spirits, but getting under Emma’s skin is proving to be even more fun. Jasper knows that he’s falling faster than a man with his past has any right to, but his body and his heart have a mind of their own. And Emma appears to be claiming both.
This is a true opposites-attract, second-chance-at-love contemporary romance set in a beautiful location filled with unique characters and set at an easy reading pace that keeps one pretty much glued to the pages from beginning to end.
While being the 6th book in the series this time the town of Carefree Montana not the Whisper Creek guest ranch takes center stage, just 1 step behind the Shady Acres retirement home which gets the top billing honor.
From the irrepressible Archie to the less-than-perfect Cook Horace both the residents and staff will steal the readers heart from page one.
Emma and Jasper are just the perfect pair to carry on the tradition of those who have no intention of making Carefree their future home. A tradition that this time did not need a little help from the magical properties of the drinking water at the Whisper Creek ranch like the 5 couples before them.
ebook, 256 pages
Expected publication: November 7th 2017 by Loveswept
Original Title Taking a Chance
ISBN 1101967781 (ISBN13: 9781101967782)
Edition Language English
Series Whisper Creek #6
Other Editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Buy book from
Amazon
B&N
BOOK BLURB
A fun-loving troublemaker gives a workaholic Southern gal a real taste of Montana magic at the one and only Whisper Creek Ranch.
A rising star in the corporate world, Emma Winthrop enjoys the view from her cubicle in sunny Florida. But when she’s dispatched to a nursing home in Whisper Creek for three months of field experience, she discovers a slice of heaven made of mountains and mayhem—mostly in the form of rugged, drop-dead gorgeous Jasper Stone, who grinds his specialty beans at the town’s best coffee shop in between organizing dodge-ball games and wheelchair races in Emma’s hallways.
When Jasper walks in on this beautiful angel in silky purple underwear trying to rinse out her blouse, it’s a breathtaking view—even for a Montana native. Wreaking havoc here at Shady Acres keeps his dad in good spirits, but getting under Emma’s skin is proving to be even more fun. Jasper knows that he’s falling faster than a man with his past has any right to, but his body and his heart have a mind of their own. And Emma appears to be claiming both.
My Thoughts
This is a true opposites-attract, second-chance-at-love contemporary romance set in a beautiful location filled with unique characters and set at an easy reading pace that keeps one pretty much glued to the pages from beginning to end.
While being the 6th book in the series this time the town of Carefree Montana not the Whisper Creek guest ranch takes center stage, just 1 step behind the Shady Acres retirement home which gets the top billing honor.
From the irrepressible Archie to the less-than-perfect Cook Horace both the residents and staff will steal the readers heart from page one.
Emma and Jasper are just the perfect pair to carry on the tradition of those who have no intention of making Carefree their future home. A tradition that this time did not need a little help from the magical properties of the drinking water at the Whisper Creek ranch like the 5 couples before them.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
October 14, 2017
What a great story! I was curious to see how Mrs. McGinnis would manage to include the story of the sexy coffee guy in her series, since he isn't a cowboy. How could she pull it off? How would Whisper Creek Ranch and the sexy cowboys be a part of the story, if it was supposed to be set at the nursing home? Well, she surprised me with this book and made me fall in love with yet another fictional character, even though he's not a cowboy.
I may be repeating myself here, but with every book in the series I find myself thinking it won't get better than this - but then I read the next book and she proves me wrong. I can't pick my favorite, because it would be like choosing a favorite child over another, but this book is just as amazing as the previous ones and I had a hard time putting it down to go to work or get some sleep.
I no longer have to blame Disney for setting the bar too high when it comes to men: it's Maggie McGinnis I have to blame, now! Her heroes are so amazing, so perfect in every way - despite their flaws - so utterly adorable you can't help falling in love with them and wishing they existed. Even though Jasper isn't a cowboy (although he does wear a Stetson at some point), he's just as sexy and swoon-worthy as the heroes from the previous books.
What I love about Maggie McGinnis's books is that she can create sky-high levels of chemistry - you literally see the sparks fly between the characters - while keeping it clean. She doesn't need to resort to graphic sex and descriptive scenes to make you feel the heat building between the characters. And this isn't an easy task. Jasper and Emma's story is funny, sweet, romantic and thoroughly entertaining. I enjoyed seeing them grow closer and getting over their fears. I loved the cast of side characters at the nursing home, and I was happy to see the people from the Whisper Creek ranch again - who I now consider like old friends. LOL
If a genie told me I could be transported to the setting of one book for the rest of my life, I have no doubt I would pick the Whisper Creek series without needing to think about it.
Taking A Chance works as a standalone, even though it is book 6 in the series. Fans of small-town, sweet romance will no doubt fall in love with this book - and with the whole series.
Note for the publisher: if you decided to buy the rights for another 10 or 20 books in the series, I would definitely buy them all. Just saying...
I may be repeating myself here, but with every book in the series I find myself thinking it won't get better than this - but then I read the next book and she proves me wrong. I can't pick my favorite, because it would be like choosing a favorite child over another, but this book is just as amazing as the previous ones and I had a hard time putting it down to go to work or get some sleep.
I no longer have to blame Disney for setting the bar too high when it comes to men: it's Maggie McGinnis I have to blame, now! Her heroes are so amazing, so perfect in every way - despite their flaws - so utterly adorable you can't help falling in love with them and wishing they existed. Even though Jasper isn't a cowboy (although he does wear a Stetson at some point), he's just as sexy and swoon-worthy as the heroes from the previous books.
What I love about Maggie McGinnis's books is that she can create sky-high levels of chemistry - you literally see the sparks fly between the characters - while keeping it clean. She doesn't need to resort to graphic sex and descriptive scenes to make you feel the heat building between the characters. And this isn't an easy task. Jasper and Emma's story is funny, sweet, romantic and thoroughly entertaining. I enjoyed seeing them grow closer and getting over their fears. I loved the cast of side characters at the nursing home, and I was happy to see the people from the Whisper Creek ranch again - who I now consider like old friends. LOL
If a genie told me I could be transported to the setting of one book for the rest of my life, I have no doubt I would pick the Whisper Creek series without needing to think about it.
Taking A Chance works as a standalone, even though it is book 6 in the series. Fans of small-town, sweet romance will no doubt fall in love with this book - and with the whole series.
Note for the publisher: if you decided to buy the rights for another 10 or 20 books in the series, I would definitely buy them all. Just saying...
September 5, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
This heartfelt contemporary western romance is a sweet slow burn. It lasts, the flavor is savored and it leaves a searing impression. Maggie paints a clear wholesome picture in yet another Whisper Creek book. The story blends nicely, intertwining well with the previous stories, yet it also makes a perfect stand alone, just as the rest. I'm not usually a fan of such a slow paced book, but with this one it absolutely works.
Emma Winthrop takes a temporary job as the head of a nursing home in Carefree Montana. The position is spur of the moment and pulls her from Florida, a state that she loves. She's been trying to move up in the business for sometime, and sees the job as an opportunity that can't be passed up. What she finds in Carefree is life changing on every level imaginable.
Jasper is fantastic. I love him. Despite his history and extremely emotional baggage (which I wont get into as I really hate spoilers!) he has the kindest heart. His seeming free spirit and giving nature effects everyone in town. He's fun loving, easy going, and absolutely adorable. Undeniably, the catch of the town. Yet, until Emma comes along he's remained single by choice for years... And for good reason.
The two have perfect chemistry. I love the way they talk to each other, and the way that despite their quickly formed feelings they try their best to resist the pull. Jasper's dad is a patient at the nursing home. Being the excellent son that Jasper is, he's there all the time, which puts him consistently on Emma's path. Inevitably, they find themselves on their first real date at the Whisper Creek Ranch. The date is perfect and the entire thing winds up escalating them into an emotional whirlwind of a future.
There are a few twists that are completely unexpected along the way, which kept me reading. I cried like a baby more than once. I was also satisfied with the ending, it's heartfelt and made me more than happy that I picked up the book in the first place. Thanks Maggie McGinnis for bringing tears to my eyes, yet again!
This heartfelt contemporary western romance is a sweet slow burn. It lasts, the flavor is savored and it leaves a searing impression. Maggie paints a clear wholesome picture in yet another Whisper Creek book. The story blends nicely, intertwining well with the previous stories, yet it also makes a perfect stand alone, just as the rest. I'm not usually a fan of such a slow paced book, but with this one it absolutely works.
Emma Winthrop takes a temporary job as the head of a nursing home in Carefree Montana. The position is spur of the moment and pulls her from Florida, a state that she loves. She's been trying to move up in the business for sometime, and sees the job as an opportunity that can't be passed up. What she finds in Carefree is life changing on every level imaginable.
Jasper is fantastic. I love him. Despite his history and extremely emotional baggage (which I wont get into as I really hate spoilers!) he has the kindest heart. His seeming free spirit and giving nature effects everyone in town. He's fun loving, easy going, and absolutely adorable. Undeniably, the catch of the town. Yet, until Emma comes along he's remained single by choice for years... And for good reason.
The two have perfect chemistry. I love the way they talk to each other, and the way that despite their quickly formed feelings they try their best to resist the pull. Jasper's dad is a patient at the nursing home. Being the excellent son that Jasper is, he's there all the time, which puts him consistently on Emma's path. Inevitably, they find themselves on their first real date at the Whisper Creek Ranch. The date is perfect and the entire thing winds up escalating them into an emotional whirlwind of a future.
There are a few twists that are completely unexpected along the way, which kept me reading. I cried like a baby more than once. I was also satisfied with the ending, it's heartfelt and made me more than happy that I picked up the book in the first place. Thanks Maggie McGinnis for bringing tears to my eyes, yet again!
November 7, 2017
Taking a Chance was my first read from Maggie McGinnis and I'm happy to say that I really enjoyed it. It's funny with just enough of an angsty past to pull at your heart strings and get you to become emotionally involved.
Emma has her sights on a promotion within her health care administration job so when she was asked to go out to Montana to fill in for a director out on leave, she didn't think twice about it. Hoping this was her break, she sets her sights on making sure everything goes smoothly. However, she didn't see that prankster coming not only for her smile but for her laugh.
I had so much fun with Jasper and his shenanigans. He was the life of the nursing home that kept the party going and pretty much had all the residents eating out of the palm of his hand. I never knew what he was going to do next and I loved every minute that he pushed Emma's buttons.
From the moment Emma and Jasper meet, you can tell that there's something there and you can't help but root for them. They certainly balance each other out. Jasper helps Emma kind of rediscover the playful and carefree person that she can be.
While this book is part of a series, it definitely can be read as a standalone. I didn't feel like I was missing anything while reading it. I did enjoy the other characters so that made me want to go back and get their own stories but it didn't take anything away from Emma and Jasper's story.
Overall, I thought this was a fun and mostly light hearted romance that was easy to pick up and hard to put down. I certainly got my laughs and fell in love with Jasper right along with Emma.
Emma has her sights on a promotion within her health care administration job so when she was asked to go out to Montana to fill in for a director out on leave, she didn't think twice about it. Hoping this was her break, she sets her sights on making sure everything goes smoothly. However, she didn't see that prankster coming not only for her smile but for her laugh.
I had so much fun with Jasper and his shenanigans. He was the life of the nursing home that kept the party going and pretty much had all the residents eating out of the palm of his hand. I never knew what he was going to do next and I loved every minute that he pushed Emma's buttons.
From the moment Emma and Jasper meet, you can tell that there's something there and you can't help but root for them. They certainly balance each other out. Jasper helps Emma kind of rediscover the playful and carefree person that she can be.
While this book is part of a series, it definitely can be read as a standalone. I didn't feel like I was missing anything while reading it. I did enjoy the other characters so that made me want to go back and get their own stories but it didn't take anything away from Emma and Jasper's story.
Overall, I thought this was a fun and mostly light hearted romance that was easy to pick up and hard to put down. I certainly got my laughs and fell in love with Jasper right along with Emma.
November 8, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the sixth book in the series. You can read it as a standalone, but it is richer for having the background to Whisper Creek and the magic it imbues!
A very enjoyable, fun and poignant read; both Emma and Jasper have had painful pasts which have held them back from love - but the chemistry between them cannot be denied, all it needs if for them to take a chance. Thankfully the gang at Whisper Creek, and the water, are on hand to help them both get the message.
As always there are many side characters who add to the richness of the story, and help round out the personalities of the leads. I also loved the description of Jasper's flat, especially the bathroom - which is unusual for me, as I generally find room tours to be filler, but not here, it was perfect and led to some lovely lines of humour.
Ms McGinnis has a lightness of touch when dealing with difficult issues, and a great sensitivity when leading two people to their HEA. Very satisfying reading, thank you.
This is the sixth book in the series. You can read it as a standalone, but it is richer for having the background to Whisper Creek and the magic it imbues!
A very enjoyable, fun and poignant read; both Emma and Jasper have had painful pasts which have held them back from love - but the chemistry between them cannot be denied, all it needs if for them to take a chance. Thankfully the gang at Whisper Creek, and the water, are on hand to help them both get the message.
As always there are many side characters who add to the richness of the story, and help round out the personalities of the leads. I also loved the description of Jasper's flat, especially the bathroom - which is unusual for me, as I generally find room tours to be filler, but not here, it was perfect and led to some lovely lines of humour.
Ms McGinnis has a lightness of touch when dealing with difficult issues, and a great sensitivity when leading two people to their HEA. Very satisfying reading, thank you.
August 27, 2017
Thank you for the ARC courtesy of NetGalley. This is a free review of Taking a Chance by Maggie McGinnis.
This is my first time to read this author and I have been missing out. The story of Emma Winthrop and Jasper Stone in the Whisper Creek series is a delightful read filled with sexy cowboys, cuddly kittens, and mischievous senior citizens. I laughed out loud at some of the antics that Jasper gets into with the senior citizens in the Shady Acres Retirement Home. It isn't all fun and games as Emma and Jasper both have some baggage from their past to deal with but the author handles it well and created a feeling of empathy and understanding in me for the characters. I like that the author doesn't beat the bad things to death like so many authors do and drag you down with the story or make you want to throw the book down and forget about it. This book a is heartwarming, witty, make-you-smile, contemporary romance that I highly recommend. I am definitely going to get the other books in the Whisper Creek series to read and put Maggie McGinnis on my "favorite authors" list.
This is my first time to read this author and I have been missing out. The story of Emma Winthrop and Jasper Stone in the Whisper Creek series is a delightful read filled with sexy cowboys, cuddly kittens, and mischievous senior citizens. I laughed out loud at some of the antics that Jasper gets into with the senior citizens in the Shady Acres Retirement Home. It isn't all fun and games as Emma and Jasper both have some baggage from their past to deal with but the author handles it well and created a feeling of empathy and understanding in me for the characters. I like that the author doesn't beat the bad things to death like so many authors do and drag you down with the story or make you want to throw the book down and forget about it. This book a is heartwarming, witty, make-you-smile, contemporary romance that I highly recommend. I am definitely going to get the other books in the Whisper Creek series to read and put Maggie McGinnis on my "favorite authors" list.
November 1, 2017
It never fails! Every time I pick up a Maggie McGinnis book planning on reading a couple hours I get so consumed by the story that by the time I look up it's late into the night and I just have to finish the book! That's exactly what happened with this incredible book. Jasper and Emma's story is simply wonderful. Jasper is funny, loving, kind and oh so sexy. Then there's Emma. A little stiff, a bit driven, but with a heart as big as Montana. Not only are these main characters completely entertaining but the secondary characters are as well. When Emma was unexpectedly sent from her cushy corporate office to work in this facility in Montana she never expected to fall in love with the people, the place, or the man but fall she did. How can she ever go back to her boring life now??
You don't want to miss this one! I highly recommend it.
You don't want to miss this one! I highly recommend it.
November 8, 2017
Taking a Chance by Maggie Mcginnis is everything you want a good romance to be plus some. Get ready to meet the quirky residents of Shady Acres. The whole lot of them are just too loveable. I fell in love with Emma and Jasper right from the beginning. It was easy to see that that were both dealing with something from their past and it eas getting in the way of their future, at least the fall in love, happy ever after part. Emma and Jasper made me laugh, made me cry and made me want to thump my head on the table! My goodness they were both fighting with everything in them not to get together even through you could cut the attraction with a knife! You did it again, took us back to the ranch we all love, the people we all love and gave us a reason to love it all again! Bravo Maggie Mcginnis!
October 13, 2017
Received an ARC for my fair review for netgalley. This is a continuation in the Whisper Creek series, but you can read it as a stand a lone. We meet Emma who goes to Montana and takes a temporary position, with the intention of returning home. However, she meet Jasper, they both have past hurts, which is a little hard on them but they are good together.
April 10, 2023
I do not know why this one sat on my kindle for so long but it is a crime. This was so, so good! Jasper and Emma have so much chemistry it is a wonder they did not burn down the nursing home and coffee shop and everything in between. Emma is sent to Montana for what is supposed to be 3 months while the director of the nursing home is out for surgery and she is more comfortable in her cubicle but give her a manual and she will make it work. Well, the patients are bound and determined to get her out of the office and make her work for it. Jasper has not met a problem he cannot solve and when he gets a look at Emma he is not sure she is going to stick but he is not going to let her fail, after all his dad is one of the patients. These two were perfection! This was not only a sweet story but it was full of all the feels and had me sighing way into the night since I could not put it down.
**Received this ARC for review from the publisher via NetGalley**
**Received this ARC for review from the publisher via NetGalley**
September 25, 2023
Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Another cute book in the Whisper Creek series sees Emma coming to fill in at the retirement home where Jasper's dad is a resident. These two have plenty of chemistry on their own but are helped out by the meddling residents of the home (and of Whisper Creek). I was a little surprised by the curveball that we were thrown at the end, but overall an enjoyable read.
Another cute book in the Whisper Creek series sees Emma coming to fill in at the retirement home where Jasper's dad is a resident. These two have plenty of chemistry on their own but are helped out by the meddling residents of the home (and of Whisper Creek). I was a little surprised by the curveball that we were thrown at the end, but overall an enjoyable read.
February 5, 2022
Clean romance
November 6, 2017
I have loved Maggie McGinnis’ Whisper Creek series from the start and I’m thrilled that she has expanded the series to include some of the area’s beloved characters. I loved this story of two damaged individuals finding love when they least expect it and need it the most.
Instead of a promotion Emma Winthrop is sent to Montana to fill in for a nursing home director who will be out on medical for several months. While Emma loves her work in the home office despite many of her ideas being shot down by her immediate boss, she has no idea how to run a center or how to live where the snow will be flying soon but she’s determined to do the best job she can do and secure her promotion when she returns.
Jasper Stone loves Carefree, Montana and his shop Java Beans, the move from California has been good for him and his father who is a resident of Shady Acres and in the early stages of dementia. Jasper is known for his playful nature and his willingness to help everyone in town.
What I loved about this book was on the outside it seemed like a sweet, charming, fun little love story but as this story unfolds it becomes much deeper when we learn that both Emma and Jasper have some deep seeded issues. I loved the slow burn between them and that despite some missteps along the way; they found their way back to one another after some soul searching and a bit of outside help from their friends at Whisper Creek ranch.
Sometimes a messy romance can turn out to be beautiful and that’s exactly what happens in Taking A Chance by Maggie McGinnis.
Jasper has a little bit of a rebellious side that draws the attention of the director in Shady Acres. Known for his crazy ways of keeping the residents entertained and motivated to be active, Jasper gets by with more than he should. Until the temporary director steps in, Emma is a rule follower to the core. Unable to shake off impending doom at being thrust into this position on a short notice, Emma needs all the help she can get.
After a crushing blow to his personal life, Jasper uproots and heads to Carefee, moving his father with him. Finding the change of pace he was looking for Jasper is learning to enjoy life to the fullest. Emma is still trying to accept that she will never be the overachiever her parents wished her to be. Finding true acceptance in the Carefree allows Emma to follow her heart.
I cannot explain how much I loved this book; it had me from page one. Watching Emma break out of her shell and truly experience a little fun was great. They both had emotional trauma in the past they were trying to work through, I was so relieved to see that Emma stayed and worked through it, it added another level of maturity to the developing relationship. The chemistry was perfect, between Jasper and Emma along with the other couples. McGinnis’ secondary characters were icing on the cake, the plot was smoothly flowing and kept me interest throughout the novel. This was my first read in the Whisper Creek Series and will not be my last, I have one-clicked previously released novels and am anxiously awaiting more!
December 30, 2021
The stories in this series often have a bit of drama especially in relation to the young women who arrive at Whisper Creek Ranch. But I think this time, the drama is balanced between Emma's and Jasper's histories.
Emma had 3 degrees, worked at a health care company in Florida, and was transferred to Montana to replace Bette Hansen, the director of nursing home. Upon arrival, chaos was installed, with patients getting hurt and the arrival of the ambulance. Emma had to adapt to the calmer acting style of small-town people, especially since there people were closer to each other.
Also, on the very first day, Emma had to deal with Jasper, the son of one of the dementia patients, who was always there and messed around with the other patients to cheer them up.
Jasper Stone, owner of the Java Beans Café in downtown has appeared in previous books in the series. Cheerful, he always helps his friends when it comes to winning over girlfriends, but when it comes to himself, he prefers to stay alone.
However, his attraction to Emma is great and instant. And despite her reluctance, they stay together.
However, the more they stayed together - and Emma opened her heart - the more Jasper became closed.
A guilt from the past plagued him and did not allow him to take a step towards happiness.
When Emma decides to make several changes in the clinic - and in her personal life - it's up to Jasper to come to his senses and realize the second chance he was being presented with, and enjoy and be happy.
4 stars
Emma had 3 degrees, worked at a health care company in Florida, and was transferred to Montana to replace Bette Hansen, the director of nursing home. Upon arrival, chaos was installed, with patients getting hurt and the arrival of the ambulance. Emma had to adapt to the calmer acting style of small-town people, especially since there people were closer to each other.
Also, on the very first day, Emma had to deal with Jasper, the son of one of the dementia patients, who was always there and messed around with the other patients to cheer them up.
Jasper Stone, owner of the Java Beans Café in downtown has appeared in previous books in the series. Cheerful, he always helps his friends when it comes to winning over girlfriends, but when it comes to himself, he prefers to stay alone.
However, his attraction to Emma is great and instant. And despite her reluctance, they stay together.
However, the more they stayed together - and Emma opened her heart - the more Jasper became closed.
A guilt from the past plagued him and did not allow him to take a step towards happiness.
When Emma decides to make several changes in the clinic - and in her personal life - it's up to Jasper to come to his senses and realize the second chance he was being presented with, and enjoy and be happy.
4 stars
November 14, 2017
In my mind "Whisper Creek" is a paradise for women. What more can any hot blooded woman want? Fresh air, mountains, greenery as far as the eye can see and yes, smoking hot cowboys. Maybe I should have mentioned the cowboys first! We've seen many a woman fall in love with Whisper Creek and its hot inhabitants, now it's time for one of Carefree's most eligible bachelors to find love.
Jasper Stone owns the local cafe in Carefree, Montana. His coffee is to die for. In fact it is purely addictive and sinful and as fans of the series know, many women have claimed to fall in love with him after drinking his coffee. However, Jasper has a big secret. A secret that is keeping him from falling in love or entering a relationship. All he wants is to run his cafe, foster kittens and visit his elderly father at Shady Acres nursing home. But don't let his idyllic lifestyle fool you into believing that all is calm and quiet. Jasper is literally a pain in Bette's behind and a fixture in the nursing home. Bette is the manager of the Shady Acres and even though she loves Jasper like a son, there isn't a day that Jasper doesn't cause some mischief at the nursing home. Whether it is playing volleyball with wheelchairs or bringing fireworks, you can be sure that Jasper will liven up the place. And when Bette has to take leave for surgery, Shady Acres is entrusted into the care of a blonde beauty from Florida.
Emma Wintrop knows all about the technical side of running a nursing home but she has no clue how to do it on the ground. She, however, also needs to prove herself to the management and get the promotion that she has been waiting for. 12 weeks is a long time, but she is determined to make the most of it. And like all the women before her, she also falls in love with the beauty of Montana and the magical Whisper Creek ranch. Not to mention the hot cowboy that ignites all of her cowboy fantasies. Is it possible to fall head over heels in such a short amount of time? And what can possibly become of such a relationship?
Another enchanting addition to this beautiful series! I don't know if it is only wishful thinking on my part but I wouldn't mind seeing Ari and Liam together ;)
Thank you Netgalley and Random House Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jasper Stone owns the local cafe in Carefree, Montana. His coffee is to die for. In fact it is purely addictive and sinful and as fans of the series know, many women have claimed to fall in love with him after drinking his coffee. However, Jasper has a big secret. A secret that is keeping him from falling in love or entering a relationship. All he wants is to run his cafe, foster kittens and visit his elderly father at Shady Acres nursing home. But don't let his idyllic lifestyle fool you into believing that all is calm and quiet. Jasper is literally a pain in Bette's behind and a fixture in the nursing home. Bette is the manager of the Shady Acres and even though she loves Jasper like a son, there isn't a day that Jasper doesn't cause some mischief at the nursing home. Whether it is playing volleyball with wheelchairs or bringing fireworks, you can be sure that Jasper will liven up the place. And when Bette has to take leave for surgery, Shady Acres is entrusted into the care of a blonde beauty from Florida.
Emma Wintrop knows all about the technical side of running a nursing home but she has no clue how to do it on the ground. She, however, also needs to prove herself to the management and get the promotion that she has been waiting for. 12 weeks is a long time, but she is determined to make the most of it. And like all the women before her, she also falls in love with the beauty of Montana and the magical Whisper Creek ranch. Not to mention the hot cowboy that ignites all of her cowboy fantasies. Is it possible to fall head over heels in such a short amount of time? And what can possibly become of such a relationship?
Another enchanting addition to this beautiful series! I don't know if it is only wishful thinking on my part but I wouldn't mind seeing Ari and Liam together ;)
Thank you Netgalley and Random House Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2017
Bette, the head of Shady Acres, is having surgery and is need of a replacement. Emma, a Floridian, is suddenly sent to Whisper Creek to fill in with explicit instructions to NOT make any changes. Emma, believing she was sent because she's single with no ties to Florida, soon questions why she was sent. The employees approach her with caution as they think she's there to fire them. They obviously love Bette and believe no one can fill her shoes. While Bette is not a "by the books" director, Emma is. Emma thinks everything she needs to know she's learned in school or it can be found in the instruction manual...
Jasper moved to Whisper Creek years ago after suffering great loss. Jasper, an attorney, used to live in the corporate world. He spent 60+ hours a week with clients and with colleagues, just not his wife. Realizing he didn't like who he'd become, Jasper leaves his former life behind and ends up in Whisper Creek. The lure of the mountains and a simpler way of life "called" to him. Jasper opened up a coffee shop and moved his dad into Shady Acres, to be closer to him. Jasper wrecks havoc at Shady Acres, trying to make the nursing home a more pleasant place to live. When Bette leaves, she makes Jasper promise to be good...
Eager to meet the new girl, Jasper walks in on Emma as she's changing. Emma thinks he's the most handsome, sexy man she's ever met. The more Emma sees Jasper with his dad and other residents, the more intrigued she becomes. Jasper finds it easy to talk, be with Emma, but also knows she'll be gone in 3mths. He's also not sure if he's ready for a relationship. Even though they know it's a bad idea to start anything, they find themselves drawn to each other....
This was such a powerful, poignant read. You laugh, cry, laugh, and then want to jump through your ereader to shake Jasper silly!!! I loved the easy banter, quick wit, and sense of family. I also enjoyed learning different ways we could make nursing homes better, less depressing. Wheelchair volleyball, designing the halls to be like city streets, and the animals-resident programs were excellent ideas! One could also envision the mountains and the stars as though they were there. I loved it!!! I read a gifted copy and all opinions stated are my own.
Jasper moved to Whisper Creek years ago after suffering great loss. Jasper, an attorney, used to live in the corporate world. He spent 60+ hours a week with clients and with colleagues, just not his wife. Realizing he didn't like who he'd become, Jasper leaves his former life behind and ends up in Whisper Creek. The lure of the mountains and a simpler way of life "called" to him. Jasper opened up a coffee shop and moved his dad into Shady Acres, to be closer to him. Jasper wrecks havoc at Shady Acres, trying to make the nursing home a more pleasant place to live. When Bette leaves, she makes Jasper promise to be good...
Eager to meet the new girl, Jasper walks in on Emma as she's changing. Emma thinks he's the most handsome, sexy man she's ever met. The more Emma sees Jasper with his dad and other residents, the more intrigued she becomes. Jasper finds it easy to talk, be with Emma, but also knows she'll be gone in 3mths. He's also not sure if he's ready for a relationship. Even though they know it's a bad idea to start anything, they find themselves drawn to each other....
This was such a powerful, poignant read. You laugh, cry, laugh, and then want to jump through your ereader to shake Jasper silly!!! I loved the easy banter, quick wit, and sense of family. I also enjoyed learning different ways we could make nursing homes better, less depressing. Wheelchair volleyball, designing the halls to be like city streets, and the animals-resident programs were excellent ideas! One could also envision the mountains and the stars as though they were there. I loved it!!! I read a gifted copy and all opinions stated are my own.
November 5, 2017
“Here I was, thinking maybe I was about to get kissed, and instead, I’m about to get struck by lightning.”
I can’t quite remember how I first discovered this series from Maggie McGinnis, but I do know this—I’ve really enjoyed each of the (now) three books I’ve read. And guys, I’ve read them COMPLETELY out of order. I started with book three. Moved to book five. And just finished book six, Taking a Chance. The three all have one important thing in common, aside from being heart-happy romance.
Hot Cowboys.
Yeah, okay, technically Jasper isn’t a cowboy, but . . . he’s hot, he wears a Stetson on occasion and takes Emma for the sweetest—and yet still sizzling—horse ride and therefore, he qualifies.
But hey, he’s not one-dimensional. He’s a coffee god, a good guy, and his slow-burn with Emma is lovely. Their chemistry is enough to carry this story through flirtations, cheekiness, fade-to-black love scenes and conflict. And TBH, it was conflict that worked for me. I liked how Ms. McGinnis handled it; I liked the way Em and Jasper acted and reacted to it.
And I most definitely liked the way it ended. It wasn’t quite a perfect ending for me—I couldn’t help but wish that we’d had a little more time—but it was damn close. And it was also just the ticket for a heart (spoiler alert: MY HEART) that was feeling a little bruised and susceptible to tears. Because hormones.
I know that each time I’ve finished a book in the Whisper Creek series, I’ve told myself that I have to read the ones I’ve missed—and truly, this time is no different. I’m determined to make time for more of these hot cowboys—and not just because they’re hot cowboys. Rather, it's because, however I happened upon this series, I know that whenever I read one of these books I’m getting sweet, swoony, heart-happy romance.
And yeah, okay, a hot cowboy too.
“...for some crazy, world-is-upside-down reason, I think I’m in love with you. Like, kind of stupidly in love with you. Like, I’d give up alligators for you.”
~ 4.5 Whipped Cream STARS ~
I can’t quite remember how I first discovered this series from Maggie McGinnis, but I do know this—I’ve really enjoyed each of the (now) three books I’ve read. And guys, I’ve read them COMPLETELY out of order. I started with book three. Moved to book five. And just finished book six, Taking a Chance. The three all have one important thing in common, aside from being heart-happy romance.
Hot Cowboys.
Yeah, okay, technically Jasper isn’t a cowboy, but . . . he’s hot, he wears a Stetson on occasion and takes Emma for the sweetest—and yet still sizzling—horse ride and therefore, he qualifies.
But hey, he’s not one-dimensional. He’s a coffee god, a good guy, and his slow-burn with Emma is lovely. Their chemistry is enough to carry this story through flirtations, cheekiness, fade-to-black love scenes and conflict. And TBH, it was conflict that worked for me. I liked how Ms. McGinnis handled it; I liked the way Em and Jasper acted and reacted to it.
And I most definitely liked the way it ended. It wasn’t quite a perfect ending for me—I couldn’t help but wish that we’d had a little more time—but it was damn close. And it was also just the ticket for a heart (spoiler alert: MY HEART) that was feeling a little bruised and susceptible to tears. Because hormones.
I know that each time I’ve finished a book in the Whisper Creek series, I’ve told myself that I have to read the ones I’ve missed—and truly, this time is no different. I’m determined to make time for more of these hot cowboys—and not just because they’re hot cowboys. Rather, it's because, however I happened upon this series, I know that whenever I read one of these books I’m getting sweet, swoony, heart-happy romance.
And yeah, okay, a hot cowboy too.
“...for some crazy, world-is-upside-down reason, I think I’m in love with you. Like, kind of stupidly in love with you. Like, I’d give up alligators for you.”
~ 4.5 Whipped Cream STARS ~
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews