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Wishing Well, Texas #5
Claiming Colton
Stand-alone Wishing Well, Texas romance, complete with HEA—and plenty of heat and heart along the way!
Colton McCord was just a regular cowboy before the world made him famous after several stints on reality TV. And even though he turned on his charm for prime time, his real heart belonged to the one he let go because he loved her…
Bella Connor thought she’d never return to Wishing Well. Although it was her home, she could never forget how he broke her heart while at the same time changed her life forever…
The gorgeous blonde is back to settle her late grandfather’s affairs. The sexy all-American boy is ready to shoot his final reality dating show. Life kept them apart and now it was bringing them back together. Will Colton finally be able to tell her the truth and never let her go? Will Bella be able to let go of the past for a chance at a future they both deserve?
Colton McCord was just a regular cowboy before the world made him famous after several stints on reality TV. And even though he turned on his charm for prime time, his real heart belonged to the one he let go because he loved her…
Bella Connor thought she’d never return to Wishing Well. Although it was her home, she could never forget how he broke her heart while at the same time changed her life forever…
The gorgeous blonde is back to settle her late grandfather’s affairs. The sexy all-American boy is ready to shoot his final reality dating show. Life kept them apart and now it was bringing them back together. Will Colton finally be able to tell her the truth and never let her go? Will Bella be able to let go of the past for a chance at a future they both deserve?
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2017
917 people are currently reading
820 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Shawn
134 books1,851 followersNEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY bestselling author Melanie Shawn writes HEAs filled with sweet and sassy heroines, heroes who are cinnamon rolls in the streets alpho-holes in the sheets, casts of supportive *cough: meddling* friends and family who put the fun in funny, toe-curling combustible heat, and sugary sweet “aww” moments that will have your hearts and e-readers melting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
April 27, 2017
I loved this book and Colton. Colton has to be one of the most giving man I have read about. He sacrificed his love for Isabella (Bella) Connor when she was only 15 to make sure she had a loving adult to take care of her. Of course, when we do things out of love for someone else it doesn't always turn out the way we planned. Colton's sister Cara had leukemia when she was a teenager and Colton dropped everything to be there for her and take care of her. Their parents were pathetic and very selfish. I am glad that Colton gets a chance to tell them off! Cara pushed him to do some reality shows like the bachelor even though he didn't want to. Colton was still in love with Bella even though she was married and had a daughter.
When Cara gets married, she sends an invitation to Bella. Cara knows that Colton is still in love with her. Cara's grandfather left her his farm, so she decides to go to the wedding and decide to do something with the farm. Her husband is divorcing her for a much younger woman. Bella is afraid to see Colton again as she is still in love with him. She finally gets the courage to go into the reception and Colton is shocked to see her. He tries to talk to her, but she will only give her a little bit of her time. You will need to read the rest of the book to see what happens. There are some twists and turns to the story that keep you on your toes. This is one of those books that make you laugh and cry, but you will be happy with the ending. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
When Cara gets married, she sends an invitation to Bella. Cara knows that Colton is still in love with her. Cara's grandfather left her his farm, so she decides to go to the wedding and decide to do something with the farm. Her husband is divorcing her for a much younger woman. Bella is afraid to see Colton again as she is still in love with him. She finally gets the courage to go into the reception and Colton is shocked to see her. He tries to talk to her, but she will only give her a little bit of her time. You will need to read the rest of the book to see what happens. There are some twists and turns to the story that keep you on your toes. This is one of those books that make you laugh and cry, but you will be happy with the ending. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
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October 16, 2017FREE on Amazon today (10/16/2017)!
April 27, 2017
**Advanced copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
I am always anxious to visit our friends in Wishing Well, Texas and Melanie Shawn has once again hit it out of the park. I was very intrigued at the end of Taming Travis to see what the story for Colton would be and I was definitely not disappointed. I was sucked into this book from the first chapter.
Colton McCord has been on more reality shows in the recent past than he even wants to remember and he has one more to go in order to help out his friend Mia. While he's been going on the reality shows because his sister Cara wanted him to, his heart has never been in it. His heart still lies with his first love; the woman he sent away when they were still teenagers believing that it was the best thing for her. But even all these years later, Bella Conner still has his heart.
To say Bella has had a rough life since her teenage years would be an understatement. She lost both of her parents in her teens, along with the aunt who stepped in to take care of her, she's been a single mother and now she's about to be a divorcee. Now forced to put a new life plan in place for she and her daughter Sadie, she heads back to Wishing Well to deal with the property that was left to her by her grandfather and also to try to figure out how to move forward with her life.
When Bella and Colton see one another again for the first time, it's clear that neither one of them has lost their love for one another, but there are things from the past that Bella isn't sure she can get over. She wants to figure out what is best for she and Sadie and then get out of town without allowing Colton back in, however Colton has a much different plan in mind.
Will the reality star be able to get through to the only woman he's ever loved? Will Bella be able to get past the things that happened in the past? Or will something that neither one of them ever expected be the thing that either brings them together or tears them apart?
This book had a bit of everything. There was emotion, there was humor, there was heat and there was fun. Once I started this book I didn't want to put it down. Melanie Shawn has created such a special world with Wishing Well and all of the town's inhabitants. I can't wait for Bryson's book next!
I am always anxious to visit our friends in Wishing Well, Texas and Melanie Shawn has once again hit it out of the park. I was very intrigued at the end of Taming Travis to see what the story for Colton would be and I was definitely not disappointed. I was sucked into this book from the first chapter.
Colton McCord has been on more reality shows in the recent past than he even wants to remember and he has one more to go in order to help out his friend Mia. While he's been going on the reality shows because his sister Cara wanted him to, his heart has never been in it. His heart still lies with his first love; the woman he sent away when they were still teenagers believing that it was the best thing for her. But even all these years later, Bella Conner still has his heart.
To say Bella has had a rough life since her teenage years would be an understatement. She lost both of her parents in her teens, along with the aunt who stepped in to take care of her, she's been a single mother and now she's about to be a divorcee. Now forced to put a new life plan in place for she and her daughter Sadie, she heads back to Wishing Well to deal with the property that was left to her by her grandfather and also to try to figure out how to move forward with her life.
When Bella and Colton see one another again for the first time, it's clear that neither one of them has lost their love for one another, but there are things from the past that Bella isn't sure she can get over. She wants to figure out what is best for she and Sadie and then get out of town without allowing Colton back in, however Colton has a much different plan in mind.
Will the reality star be able to get through to the only woman he's ever loved? Will Bella be able to get past the things that happened in the past? Or will something that neither one of them ever expected be the thing that either brings them together or tears them apart?
This book had a bit of everything. There was emotion, there was humor, there was heat and there was fun. Once I started this book I didn't want to put it down. Melanie Shawn has created such a special world with Wishing Well and all of the town's inhabitants. I can't wait for Bryson's book next!
April 30, 2017
Claiming Colton finally did it that other book heroes haven't been able to do - I finally have a book boyfriend!
I absolutely adore Colton! He is kind and giving with the biggest heart ever. He is thoughtful, fair, sexy, and dependable. I loved the connection he has with his sister. That was so beautiful, it took my breath away. How he put his own needs to the side to take care of her just amazed me. His way to deal with the despicable parents of his made me want to stand up and applaud him.
Even with all the sacrifices he made, he had alpha in him, he went after what he wanted, he played fair, and his heart forever belonged to only one woman since he was a little boy, Bella.
Bella and Colton went separate ways twelve years ago, breaking both of their hearts. Now life has given them a new chance to repair the hurt and pain from the past, clear all misunderstandings and built something lasting on a solid ground. If only they take a minute and communicate with each other, instead of just talking about the need to have a talk.
The story is steamy and sensual, the chemistry between Bella and Colton is off the charts. There are long, detailed love scenes that show the fire and bond that is between these two lovers. Most of the focus of the developing relationship is on the physical aspects of the desire they had burning inside every moment they were together.
With the dual sided first person point of view, the angst and tension from the past hurt and years of separation are tangible and high. The writing is as smooth and flowing as I am used to from the excellent writing duo Melanie Shawn. I wish there would have a bit more of that small town feeling in the story, the support of the circle of the friends that often highlights the plots of this author.
An entertaining, emotional, sweet, yet sexy novel that made me smile, sigh, and swoon. It hits many emotional highs and lows through the journey but every bump on the road was worth the delightful second chance on forever kind of love, and the life together that was waiting for Bella and Colton - if they ever made it to the finish line...
~ Four Spoons
I absolutely adore Colton! He is kind and giving with the biggest heart ever. He is thoughtful, fair, sexy, and dependable. I loved the connection he has with his sister. That was so beautiful, it took my breath away. How he put his own needs to the side to take care of her just amazed me. His way to deal with the despicable parents of his made me want to stand up and applaud him.
Even with all the sacrifices he made, he had alpha in him, he went after what he wanted, he played fair, and his heart forever belonged to only one woman since he was a little boy, Bella.
Bella and Colton went separate ways twelve years ago, breaking both of their hearts. Now life has given them a new chance to repair the hurt and pain from the past, clear all misunderstandings and built something lasting on a solid ground. If only they take a minute and communicate with each other, instead of just talking about the need to have a talk.
The story is steamy and sensual, the chemistry between Bella and Colton is off the charts. There are long, detailed love scenes that show the fire and bond that is between these two lovers. Most of the focus of the developing relationship is on the physical aspects of the desire they had burning inside every moment they were together.
With the dual sided first person point of view, the angst and tension from the past hurt and years of separation are tangible and high. The writing is as smooth and flowing as I am used to from the excellent writing duo Melanie Shawn. I wish there would have a bit more of that small town feeling in the story, the support of the circle of the friends that often highlights the plots of this author.
An entertaining, emotional, sweet, yet sexy novel that made me smile, sigh, and swoon. It hits many emotional highs and lows through the journey but every bump on the road was worth the delightful second chance on forever kind of love, and the life together that was waiting for Bella and Colton - if they ever made it to the finish line...
~ Four Spoons
November 21, 2022
The couple: Colton and Isabella
Romance trope: second chance romance
Series: Wishing Well, Texas
Length: 214 pages
Plot: Colton and Bella were young lovers who were a solid couple...until they weren't. Colton pushed Bella away, for her own good, he thought, and they both went on with their lives, never forgetting the other, although for different reasons. But when Bella comes back to town to take care of her grandfather's estate and Colton is back in town for a new TV show, the two of them will have to come to terms with their past and what it means for their future.
Commentary: I've read most of the books in the series, and I was thinking that it was strange that so many of the couples started as couples when they were quite young (like middle school young) and how strange that concentration was, and then I remembered it was small-town Texas (no shame! Home state represent!) so it made sense then! Colton was a typical dumb teenager thinking he had to fix his girl's problems without her input or knowledge, and without even knowing what those problems might be! I felt so bad for poor Bella, so young, all on her own with nobody to help her, with . All of that could have been avoided if Colton had just spoken to her on the phone. But his parents should shoulder some of the blame - she might have been able to get in touch with him but for their interference.
One complaint? Bella falls back into his arms very quickly, despite thinking that .
Previous book in the series: Made For You
Next book in the series: Trusting Bryson
Romance trope: second chance romance
Series: Wishing Well, Texas
Length: 214 pages
Plot: Colton and Bella were young lovers who were a solid couple...until they weren't. Colton pushed Bella away, for her own good, he thought, and they both went on with their lives, never forgetting the other, although for different reasons. But when Bella comes back to town to take care of her grandfather's estate and Colton is back in town for a new TV show, the two of them will have to come to terms with their past and what it means for their future.
Commentary: I've read most of the books in the series, and I was thinking that it was strange that so many of the couples started as couples when they were quite young (like middle school young) and how strange that concentration was, and then I remembered it was small-town Texas (no shame! Home state represent!) so it made sense then! Colton was a typical dumb teenager thinking he had to fix his girl's problems without her input or knowledge, and without even knowing what those problems might be! I felt so bad for poor Bella, so young, all on her own with nobody to help her, with . All of that could have been avoided if Colton had just spoken to her on the phone. But his parents should shoulder some of the blame - she might have been able to get in touch with him but for their interference.
One complaint? Bella falls back into his arms very quickly, despite thinking that .
Previous book in the series: Made For You
Next book in the series: Trusting Bryson
April 28, 2017
Melanie Shawn does it again! This writing duo has to finish each other's sentences! They manage to write their stories so seamlessly that you can't tell who is writing when. They give so much detail & color that you feel you have actually met the characters in person!
Bella & Colton were true childhood sweethearts. They'd always been a couple until life interrupted. After her father dies, her mother descended into drugs, alcohol & depression. Bella ended up being shipped out to live with her great aunt. Colton decided to break up with her so she wouldn't just wait for him, but give her new life a chance. Now, Bella is back in town & Colton's supposed to be on a dating reality show. Will they find their way back to each other?
I loved this one! Colton is so sweet & sensitive! I love the fact that he stepped up to take care of his sister, Cara, when his parents backed out of her life when she was diagnosed with cancer. I never hated anyone as much as I did their parents! Their job is to look after & care for their children through everything, not just when the going is good. They are selfish & narcissistic. Bella is strong, sarcastic, loyal & loving! When she was comfortable, she could flip the sarcastic comments, one right after another. However, she wasn't afraid to cry & didn't let life get her down. I can't wait for the next one! I'm not sure how Melanie Shawn can top this one!
Bella & Colton were true childhood sweethearts. They'd always been a couple until life interrupted. After her father dies, her mother descended into drugs, alcohol & depression. Bella ended up being shipped out to live with her great aunt. Colton decided to break up with her so she wouldn't just wait for him, but give her new life a chance. Now, Bella is back in town & Colton's supposed to be on a dating reality show. Will they find their way back to each other?
I loved this one! Colton is so sweet & sensitive! I love the fact that he stepped up to take care of his sister, Cara, when his parents backed out of her life when she was diagnosed with cancer. I never hated anyone as much as I did their parents! Their job is to look after & care for their children through everything, not just when the going is good. They are selfish & narcissistic. Bella is strong, sarcastic, loyal & loving! When she was comfortable, she could flip the sarcastic comments, one right after another. However, she wasn't afraid to cry & didn't let life get her down. I can't wait for the next one! I'm not sure how Melanie Shawn can top this one!
April 29, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I really have loved this series and every book seems like it is better than the others. And now this is my next favorite. To be honest I wasn’t sure I would love it because I am not a fan of reality tv romance stories, and from the last book I knew Colton, our hero was going on a reality show where he finds love.
I am happy to say there is very little reality tv in this story. The story start at the wedding of Trace and Cara. Cara is Colton’s sister and he is pretty much her guardian and has been taking care of her throught her cancer treatment and since he was 18.
Cara invited his ex to her wedding, Bella, who is also in town trying to take care of her grandfathers affairs. The second Colton sees her is is instantly in love and want her back.
But Bella does not feel the same way and lemme tell you she has fabulous reasons. In fact I would have hated Colton on sight for what he did to her.
I don’t want to spoil too much and there are some big spoilers to this story. BIG!!
The writing was beyond amazing. This story will make you mad, cry, laugh and sigh.It is my new favorite in the series and totally stands alone though if you should read a book before this one, Taming Travis as some of the timeline coincides with this book and Convincing Cara, which is about Colton’s sister Cara.
I really have loved this series and every book seems like it is better than the others. And now this is my next favorite. To be honest I wasn’t sure I would love it because I am not a fan of reality tv romance stories, and from the last book I knew Colton, our hero was going on a reality show where he finds love.
I am happy to say there is very little reality tv in this story. The story start at the wedding of Trace and Cara. Cara is Colton’s sister and he is pretty much her guardian and has been taking care of her throught her cancer treatment and since he was 18.
Cara invited his ex to her wedding, Bella, who is also in town trying to take care of her grandfathers affairs. The second Colton sees her is is instantly in love and want her back.
But Bella does not feel the same way and lemme tell you she has fabulous reasons. In fact I would have hated Colton on sight for what he did to her.
I don’t want to spoil too much and there are some big spoilers to this story. BIG!!
The writing was beyond amazing. This story will make you mad, cry, laugh and sigh.It is my new favorite in the series and totally stands alone though if you should read a book before this one, Taming Travis as some of the timeline coincides with this book and Convincing Cara, which is about Colton’s sister Cara.
April 30, 2017
Claiming Colton is the fifth installment in the Wishing Well, Texas series by Melanie Shawn.
It is also the name of the upcoming reality show that Colton McCord will be the star of while he searches for love. The problem is, even though this will be Colton’s sixth reality show about finding love, he already knows where his love is. His first love was and is the only woman he’ll ever truly want and she hasn't been in Wishing Well for over 10 years.
Isabella “Bella” Connor has been away from Wishing Well for 12 long years. She didn’t leave by choice, but has certainly stayed away by choice. At least until she found that she had nowhere else to go. She wasn’t sure if she could trust herself to be around her first love and the who shattered her heart.
When Bella and Colton run into each other at Colton’s sister, Cara’s wedding reception they both have opposing feelings about each other, at least on the surface. Bella still feels betrayed after all of these years and Colton just wants the opportunity to apologize and tell her exactly what he was thinking when he did what he did all those years ago. Can Bella and Colton get passed the past and see if there is any future that could be had between them?
This book was an emotional roller coaster. I couldn’t believe how much it made me feel! I loved both of the characters and couldn’t believe the story’s main shocker! This was such a great read!
It is also the name of the upcoming reality show that Colton McCord will be the star of while he searches for love. The problem is, even though this will be Colton’s sixth reality show about finding love, he already knows where his love is. His first love was and is the only woman he’ll ever truly want and she hasn't been in Wishing Well for over 10 years.
Isabella “Bella” Connor has been away from Wishing Well for 12 long years. She didn’t leave by choice, but has certainly stayed away by choice. At least until she found that she had nowhere else to go. She wasn’t sure if she could trust herself to be around her first love and the who shattered her heart.
When Bella and Colton run into each other at Colton’s sister, Cara’s wedding reception they both have opposing feelings about each other, at least on the surface. Bella still feels betrayed after all of these years and Colton just wants the opportunity to apologize and tell her exactly what he was thinking when he did what he did all those years ago. Can Bella and Colton get passed the past and see if there is any future that could be had between them?
This book was an emotional roller coaster. I couldn’t believe how much it made me feel! I loved both of the characters and couldn’t believe the story’s main shocker! This was such a great read!
April 29, 2017
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
"Claiming Colton" is written by Melanie Shawn, and it is the 5th book in the Wishing Well, Texas series. It can be read as a stand-alone book. It features Colton McCord and Bella Connor.
Colton McCord originally went on reality tv for his sister, Cara. But after several stints on these reality shows, he's only doing it as a favor for a friend. His heart is not really into it. He will only ever have one true love. His childhood sweetheart. The one that got away... Bella Connor.
Bella is back in town. Colton broke her heart. She debated whether or not to accept Cara's wedding invitation, but she's going to put a brave face and be strong.
What happens when Bella gets a job helping with production at Colton's new dating show? How will Colton react when he finds out what was kept secret from him? Will they get their happily ever after?
"Claiming Colton" was beautifully written. What stood out for me was what occurred in the middle of the book. Colton and Bella are both a little angry with each other, but it all changes when they realize the truth. That was such a profound, strong moment. The way it was handled... wow! There was angst and sadness, but at the same time, hope and happiness. This bonds them forever and makes their relationship stronger than ever. They lost a lot of time apart. There's not much else to add. The sister duo of Melanie and Shawna wrote another story that will captivate readers!
"Claiming Colton" is written by Melanie Shawn, and it is the 5th book in the Wishing Well, Texas series. It can be read as a stand-alone book. It features Colton McCord and Bella Connor.
Colton McCord originally went on reality tv for his sister, Cara. But after several stints on these reality shows, he's only doing it as a favor for a friend. His heart is not really into it. He will only ever have one true love. His childhood sweetheart. The one that got away... Bella Connor.
Bella is back in town. Colton broke her heart. She debated whether or not to accept Cara's wedding invitation, but she's going to put a brave face and be strong.
What happens when Bella gets a job helping with production at Colton's new dating show? How will Colton react when he finds out what was kept secret from him? Will they get their happily ever after?
"Claiming Colton" was beautifully written. What stood out for me was what occurred in the middle of the book. Colton and Bella are both a little angry with each other, but it all changes when they realize the truth. That was such a profound, strong moment. The way it was handled... wow! There was angst and sadness, but at the same time, hope and happiness. This bonds them forever and makes their relationship stronger than ever. They lost a lot of time apart. There's not much else to add. The sister duo of Melanie and Shawna wrote another story that will captivate readers!
May 4, 2017
Warm comforting romance that will leave you with a smile on your face and in your heart!
Colton and Bella were childhood sweet hearts who through life events were pulled apart but neither space nor time dampened their love for each other. Colton has spent the better part of his adulthood taking care of people and fixing problems. Now that his sister is grown up and no longer needs him, Colton is starting to realize that fixing some of his past hurts is long overdue.
Bella had her heart broken in more ways than one when she lived in Wishing Well. This is a place that she vowed she would never return to. However, life has thrown her a few curve balls and now she is back to get things straightened out and settle her late grandfather’s affairs. What she doesn’t count on is how a sexy cowboy and her child hood sweet heart might turn her plans upside down.
To say I have been waiting a long time for Colton’s HEA for a while would be false. It has felt like forever since Colton was introduce to readers in a different Melanie Shawn series. I have long held Colton in a special place in my heart and have always been hopeful that the woman he found would be worthy of him and Bella was more than I could have hoped for.
This book is a comfortable kind of romance, one that is like a soft warm blanket you can wrap yourself up in. Colton and Bella have a history and some hurts to work through but their feelings for each other need no work at all. I loved reading this book, despite a few ups and downs and maybe even a setback or two. You can be confident that when the books ends you will be blissfully happy and read the final page with a smile on your face. I have to say I was also really surprised by how much I loved Bella’s little girl. She had the most hilarious one liners and observations that brought a sense of lightness to the book when you needed it most. I love all the books in this series and cannot wait for the next one!
Colton and Bella were childhood sweet hearts who through life events were pulled apart but neither space nor time dampened their love for each other. Colton has spent the better part of his adulthood taking care of people and fixing problems. Now that his sister is grown up and no longer needs him, Colton is starting to realize that fixing some of his past hurts is long overdue.
Bella had her heart broken in more ways than one when she lived in Wishing Well. This is a place that she vowed she would never return to. However, life has thrown her a few curve balls and now she is back to get things straightened out and settle her late grandfather’s affairs. What she doesn’t count on is how a sexy cowboy and her child hood sweet heart might turn her plans upside down.
To say I have been waiting a long time for Colton’s HEA for a while would be false. It has felt like forever since Colton was introduce to readers in a different Melanie Shawn series. I have long held Colton in a special place in my heart and have always been hopeful that the woman he found would be worthy of him and Bella was more than I could have hoped for.
This book is a comfortable kind of romance, one that is like a soft warm blanket you can wrap yourself up in. Colton and Bella have a history and some hurts to work through but their feelings for each other need no work at all. I loved reading this book, despite a few ups and downs and maybe even a setback or two. You can be confident that when the books ends you will be blissfully happy and read the final page with a smile on your face. I have to say I was also really surprised by how much I loved Bella’s little girl. She had the most hilarious one liners and observations that brought a sense of lightness to the book when you needed it most. I love all the books in this series and cannot wait for the next one!
May 7, 2017
4 1/2 STARS!
A sweet reunion that brings more than we bargained for! We know several of the characters from the previous books in the series so it's always fun to see them again and see what's happening with them ... and with this one, Colton finally gets his chance to find his happiness!
Colton McCord has been reality tv's heartthrob for several years now and he's declared this upcoming show his last! He started it all for his sister Cara, and he did this final one as a favor for his friend Mia, but he's tired of it all and wants to settle into his real life again.
Isabella Thomas never expected to step foot back in Wishing Well, Texas again after all of these years, but times have changed and necessity has brought her home to settle her late grandfather's estate so she can move on once and for all. She knows she'll see Colton again, but she's unprepared for the way he still affects her. He is adamant he needs to talk to her as soon as he sees her, but can she bear it? Secrets and lies have been the foundation of their separation ... is there any chance they can be overcome and give them a chance at a future again?
A sweet reunion that brings more than we bargained for! We know several of the characters from the previous books in the series so it's always fun to see them again and see what's happening with them ... and with this one, Colton finally gets his chance to find his happiness!
Colton McCord has been reality tv's heartthrob for several years now and he's declared this upcoming show his last! He started it all for his sister Cara, and he did this final one as a favor for his friend Mia, but he's tired of it all and wants to settle into his real life again.
Isabella Thomas never expected to step foot back in Wishing Well, Texas again after all of these years, but times have changed and necessity has brought her home to settle her late grandfather's estate so she can move on once and for all. She knows she'll see Colton again, but she's unprepared for the way he still affects her. He is adamant he needs to talk to her as soon as he sees her, but can she bear it? Secrets and lies have been the foundation of their separation ... is there any chance they can be overcome and give them a chance at a future again?
April 30, 2017
I loved the newest book in the Wishing Well series. How can you not pull for a guy who has tried to find love on SEVERAL reality TV shows because his younger sister who had leukemia asked him to? And Colton knows that none of the women he meets on these shows will ever be the one because he lost his heart to his forever love back in middle school! Bella is forced back to her hometown for the first time in 12 years due to the end of her marriage. However, her ex-husband was merely security for her and her sick daughter due to the fact that she loved Colton from the time she was 11 years old until she left Wishing Well pregnant at 16 years old. Colton will do anything to get back the love of his life and Bella will do anything to protect the daughter she thought he didn’t want, regardless of how much she loves him. Colton won’t give up until he convinces her he never stopped loving her.
May 2, 2017
I love the scheming that was going on behind the scenes of the "Claiming Colton" show. It shows that he was serious about his feelings and no one, no matter how beautiful is going to change them. Colton was a charmer and he will use his charm as arsenal to get what he wants. Bella is hurt and upset when she finally steps food back in her home town after her ex left her for a younger model. To add insult to injury, she wasn't looking forward to seeing Colton either, since she was under the impression that Colton really didn't love her, and didn't want anything to do with their daughter. In a surprising twist of events, his parents deception had a hand in that situation. The book was full of fun twists and turns, lots of love, both past and present and so many surprises. What a fabulous addition to the Wishing Well series!
Disclaimer: I was gifted an ARC for an honest review of this book.
Disclaimer: I was gifted an ARC for an honest review of this book.
April 26, 2017
Claiming Colton is a story about Colton McCord and Bella (Isabella) Connor. Two people that fell in love in high school and never stopped loving each other.
After about a third of the book, I started yelling at it, thinking the characters could actually hear me. Wanting them to wake up and realize that they still loved each other. Although I know realistically that my yelling didn't make the outcome of the book any different, I was glad to see that Melanie Shawn has once again provided a great HEA.
Claiming Colton is book 5 in the Wishing Well series and I loved this book just as much as the other 4. If you haven't read the other four, give them a try after you read this book.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
After about a third of the book, I started yelling at it, thinking the characters could actually hear me. Wanting them to wake up and realize that they still loved each other. Although I know realistically that my yelling didn't make the outcome of the book any different, I was glad to see that Melanie Shawn has once again provided a great HEA.
Claiming Colton is book 5 in the Wishing Well series and I loved this book just as much as the other 4. If you haven't read the other four, give them a try after you read this book.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
May 2, 2017
There seriously needs to be a few more stars added to the rating system for this book! I've been looking forward to Colton and Bella's story, and this book went above my expectations!!! These two were such a fun couple to read about. Whether it was Bella putting Colton in his place, or Colton sweeping Bella off her feet, these two were perfect. There were some twists in this story that I definitely never saw coming, and there were parts where I was so angry for these two that I seriously wanted to murder 2 certain fictional characters (Melanie Shawn, if you can make that happen that would be awesome 😜). I loved catching up with previous characters from this series, and my favorite new character??? Hands down Sadie. She adds so much to this book, and it was so fun to learn more about her.
I have fallen completely in love with the Wishing Well, Texas series, and this book was a phenomenal addition to it. Definitely a must read!!!
I have fallen completely in love with the Wishing Well, Texas series, and this book was a phenomenal addition to it. Definitely a must read!!!
May 1, 2017
Claiming Colton was, without a doubt, my very favorite Melanie Shawn book to date! I had to tell myself on several occasions to slow and and soak the book in. Because I was devouring it faster than my eyes could read. It was so great! This entire series is fantastic! Melanie Shawn has something really special with this small town of Wishing Well!
As I started this story, I wanted to scream at Bella because of what I discovered, but soon, I just wanted to wrap her up in a hug. All the puzzle pieces fell into place quickly and you realized what she had gone through at such a young age and all alone was so incredibly hard. And Colton? I couldn't have loved him more. From the very first page, he had my heart. His love for his sister, his undeniable love of Bella. His ability to not let a huge surprise change his feelings. He made me swoon in a major way. I love a great second chance romance, and this one was one of the best!!!
Happy reading!!!
As I started this story, I wanted to scream at Bella because of what I discovered, but soon, I just wanted to wrap her up in a hug. All the puzzle pieces fell into place quickly and you realized what she had gone through at such a young age and all alone was so incredibly hard. And Colton? I couldn't have loved him more. From the very first page, he had my heart. His love for his sister, his undeniable love of Bella. His ability to not let a huge surprise change his feelings. He made me swoon in a major way. I love a great second chance romance, and this one was one of the best!!!
Happy reading!!!
April 29, 2017
I devoured this book and I couldn't love it more! This whole series is awesome!!! Colton had me wrapped around his finger from Chapter 1 as he describes how happy he is for his sister at her wedding. And just like that I fall and instantly want that for him too.
Lucky for us Melanie Shawn does not disappoint and Colton eventually gets everything he deserves. It is not the easiest to come by for him though as many years earlier he broke the heart of the only woman he ever loved. Now she is back and he needs to convince her that he is worth a second chance, that their love is worth a second chance. This is a sweet and sexy story about second chances and it packs some serious heat. 5 shooting stars!!
Lucky for us Melanie Shawn does not disappoint and Colton eventually gets everything he deserves. It is not the easiest to come by for him though as many years earlier he broke the heart of the only woman he ever loved. Now she is back and he needs to convince her that he is worth a second chance, that their love is worth a second chance. This is a sweet and sexy story about second chances and it packs some serious heat. 5 shooting stars!!
Read
May 1, 2017Loved the lastest visit to Wishing Well Texas. Well I starte to fall in love with Colton in Fairytale Love (Becca and Brians story) and then a little more in Convincing Cara (Trace and Cara's story) and now on Claiming Colton it's full blown love, love, love for this man. His loving and giving nature are what fairytales are made of. His parents are a piece of work. What they did to both him and Cara was in excusable. Bella finally came back to Wishing Well but will she stay? How about the surprise on her doorstep one night? Great story happy to hear Trace and Cara's good news too. Looking forward to more Wishing Well Adventures.
May 2, 2017
I absolutely love the newest book in Melanie Shawn's Wishing Well series. Claiming Colton draws you in to Colton and Bella's lives from the very beginning and you just don't want their story to end. Colton and Bella have loved each other since they were children. Unfortunately, life happens and they were separated during their teenage years, but never forgot about each other. As the years pass, their paths cross again and many emotions are felt and experienced. Melanie Shawn has a way of making you feel everything that the characters are going through, and I found myself reaching for the tissues several times. I truly love this series and can't wait to see how the next Wishing Well resident falls in love.
May 1, 2017
5 FABULOUS STARS!!! Another fabulous book by this amazing author. The Wishing Well series is one of my favorites and this book is my favorite in the series. I loved watching this second chance romance between Colton and Bella, I did not want it to end. I highly recommend this book and series to all romance readers. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
May 3, 2017
Wishing Well, Texas - The place I want to be and Colton is the one I want to be with!!
Just Love Melanie Shawn and every book from them keeps me waiting impatiently for the next
one!!
Steamy chemistry in this second chance romance, sweet, sexy characters - A fun romance
all around!!
You won't be disappointed with this one!!
Just Love Melanie Shawn and every book from them keeps me waiting impatiently for the next
one!!
Steamy chemistry in this second chance romance, sweet, sexy characters - A fun romance
all around!!
You won't be disappointed with this one!!
May 4, 2017
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
I just love all the Wishing Well books and this one was certainly no different. I really liked Bella from the beginning and thought she was such a strong person. And how could you not love Colton, the most selfless, caring guy there is?!?! At points I would get frustrated with them and how they could not see what the other was feeling, but that is because you get so invested right from the beginning. The characters are so wonderful and the story just flows from beginning to end. I had to make myself stop and slow down at quite a few points because I just kept flying through it. I highly recommend this book, along with all others in the Wishing Well series!!
I just love all the Wishing Well books and this one was certainly no different. I really liked Bella from the beginning and thought she was such a strong person. And how could you not love Colton, the most selfless, caring guy there is?!?! At points I would get frustrated with them and how they could not see what the other was feeling, but that is because you get so invested right from the beginning. The characters are so wonderful and the story just flows from beginning to end. I had to make myself stop and slow down at quite a few points because I just kept flying through it. I highly recommend this book, along with all others in the Wishing Well series!!
April 27, 2017
I had so much fun reading the newest book in the Wishing Well, Texas series! Claiming Colton was extremely well written, and I don't generally like first person, alternating POVs. Bella was such a fighter, and Colton so, so loyal. I'm glad the reality show wasn't really the focus, since that could have been strange. The big reveal was perfect (and I'm not talking about the show)!
May 10, 2017
Colton McCord has been popping up in various Melanie Shawn books over the years. He's a bit of a reality show sensation, always trying for real love, but never being able to find it. Bella Connor has always been the one he viewed as his one true love, even though they've been apart for 12 years, since he was 17 and she was 15. She's now back in town, the place she never thought she'd return to. She's newly divorced and not sure how to move forward in her life. She was left her grandfather's ranch when he died 7 years ago. She hired someone to be the property manager since its in Wishing Well, Texas and she lived in Seattle. That leads her into Colton's path. Along the course of their newfound friendship, they learn of things from their past that were beyond both of their control. Can they find a way to move past that and move forward? I loved reading their story and love every visit to Wishing Well.
May 6, 2017
I truly looked forward to Colton's story and Melanie Shawn delivered it in a big way. It was a heart warming emotional journey for both Colton and Bella. When Colton discovers what he and Bella shared and his reaction to her absolutely brought tears to my eyes. I can't wait to see what Melanie Shawn has in store for us in the next Wishing Wells, Texas novel.
October 23, 2017
Loved the story but it wasn't addressed how he went to look for her and saw she had a family. Loved the story but didn't like that.
October 5, 2019
3.5 stars
"She wasn’t just my soul mate, she was my soul’s balance. She just made everything…right."
Enjoyable read. Low angst, second chance, small town romance between Colton and Bella.
I am glad the reality show part was just a back story and not a big part of the main story.
Couple: Isabella Connor & Colton McCord
"She wasn’t just my soul mate, she was my soul’s balance. She just made everything…right."
Enjoyable read. Low angst, second chance, small town romance between Colton and Bella.
I am glad the reality show part was just a back story and not a big part of the main story.
Couple: Isabella Connor & Colton McCord
May 1, 2017
Loved it
Great book. Enjoyed Bella & Colton second chance. This is a great series and look forward to the rest of the stories.
Great book. Enjoyed Bella & Colton second chance. This is a great series and look forward to the rest of the stories.
June 5, 2023
This book is a roller-coaster, heart-wrenching, romance. I love the Wishing Well series, just one of many Melanie Shawn series.
I found so many heartbreaking parts to this story. You will cry and laugh as you read through the pages.
If you have read any of these books, you will find many of the same characters. Colton McCord and his sister Cara are also in Teasing Destiny, of which, Cara is one of the three amigos with Destiny and Harmony Briggs. Destiny marries Jefferson James Briggs in Wishing Wells Book 1.
Cara in Book 1 was just cleared from cancer after five years. She was not only a survivor, but she was thriving now. She married Trace Briggs.
This part I found heart-wrenching was when Colton turned 18, his parents having him become Cara's legal guardian should anything happen to them. So, it seems! Just because the doctors had cleared Cara "cancer-free" a year ago didn't mean Colton would stop worrying about her and taking care of her. She would be monitored for the rest of her life.
Colton inherited the ranch from his grandfather, which wasn't part of his dream. Before their parents unexpectedly moved to Florida, he never planned on staying in Wishing Well and running the ranch. After college, Colton wanted one thing, the only girl he ever loved, the one he let go when she was a teenager. He wanted to build be with her, build a life together and have a family. His fate was sealed one cold December day at a bus station when he was seventeen.
Cara wanted him to start living his life for himself - not her. This is what she wanted him to promise as a wedding gift. Cara wanted Colton to have what she has with Trace.
Bella....
The divorce papers were signed but wouldn't be final for another four weeks - technically. Funny how life changes your plans.
Bella never thought she would step-foot back in Wishing Well Texas and hadn't imagined that she would be here attending Cara's wedding. It's been twelve years since the day she got on the bus heading to Seattle. Dring that two-day bus ride, she swore she would never return to her hometown.
The last time Bella saw Colton, he broke her heart, she wanted to show she was fine. When she received Cara's wedding invitation, Bella wanted to throw it away or burn it. But then she received an envelope addressed to Isabella Connor a few weeks ago thinking it had to be someone from her past. Now she had two reasons for going back to Wishing Well. Now wasn't the time to chicken out.
Bella always thought of Cara as a sister and the reason for not tossing the invitation in the trash was because it dawned on her that since things had taken a drastic turn in her life attending this wedding was exactly what Bella needed. She was going home. Whether she liked it or not, she was moving home. Her paternal grandpa, Papa Duke, had passed away years ago and left her the farm. Bella decided she would save up some money and transfer her cosmetology license to Texas, hoping for the best. She had this time to figure out what she was going to do and plan for her twelve year old daughter Sadie Jade who was staying with her soon-to-be ex-husband's parents in Oregan.
This was it, time to face her past. Bella was forcing herself to show up at Cara and Trace's wedding reception, putting a sense of fear in her for whatever reason. She was going to be in Wishing Well for a while, she just didn't know what the future held for her and Sadie. Bella knew she would run into Colton and this was her chance to take control. Did Colton know she was back in town? Did Cara tell him she invited Bella to her wedding/reception?
Bella did show up at the reception and as she was about to get out of her car, she saw Colton come through the doors of the hall. As he gazed across the hall, Colton thought he was seeing a ghost standing at the entrance of the hall. He was looking at the girl he had loved, wearing a beautiful red dress was the one and only Isabella Connor. He thought he was seeing things, a mirage, a figment of his imagination. She was the last person he expected to see back in town.
Cara didn't tell Colton that she invited Bella. Cara didn't say anything because it was sure if she would show up. But she did. Colton approached Bella and wanted to talk to her, but she put up a defense in the process. That was not the time or place for a conversation they needed to have. There was so much that had happened between them over the years and finding out his parents were smack-dab in the middle of it made Colton and Cara mad when the pieces started to fall into place.
Their eyes met and they greeted each other. Colton wanted to talk, but that was the last thing Bella wanted to do. Colton asked her for the second time but she wouldn't go with him. Disappointment
came over both of them. They engaged in a few more minutes of small talk and gone their own way. As soon as Colton became distracted, she made a beeline for the door. Bella knew being back in Wishing Well would bring up a lot of things that she'd buried deep and there was nothing she could do about it. She was about to take a journey down memory lane and it was going to be painful.
For years Bella believed that she was destined to be with Colton J McCord, that their love story was one for the ages, the kind of love that people wrote about, wrote songs about, poetry. Could she have been wrong?
Colton went after Bella once he realized she had left the reception. Cara told him "Just Go!" He didn't want to leave the reception before Cara and Trace left. He didn't want to be like their parents, but Cara insisted. Not able to get into his truck, he took off on foot, walking five miles to get to Bella's farm. Bella was in town to get Papa Duke's affairs in order. He had died years ago. That was one reason why she was in town.
Why hadn't Bella attended Papa Duke's funeral? Bella had been at the Children's Hospital with Sadie; she was in ICU and ended up there for over a month. Bella hired Jan Jenson to manage the property and the rest is history.
The biggest mistake of Colton's life was letting Bella get on that bus. He should have told her he loved her and that he always would. Even though he went looking for her when Cara went off to college, found her married and had a child. That is where he left everything hoping she was happy.
Now finding out she was getting a divorce was Colton's way of getting back into her life and Sadie's realizing that when he finally met Sadie, she looked just like Cara. And, actually, Colton called Sadie Cara until Bella corrected him. Much to Bella and Colton's surprise was when they saw Sadie sitting on the porch of the farm house, wondering how she got there. To make a long story short, Colton has no idea Bella's daughter was his daughter as well. When Bella showed Colton the papers, he signed at the age of eighteen, they were for signing off on his responsibility as a parent which is what he signed in front of his parents. He thought it was for legal guardianship for Cara when they were keeping the knowledge that Colton was a father. His parents didn't want the image of two under-aged kids with a baby, so they deceived Colton into thinking something else. Imagine what he was feeling when he called his parents!
The story goes on.....if you love someone, set them free, if they come back, they are yours.
In the end, Colton and Bella get married and they are expecting another child. Happy reading.
I found so many heartbreaking parts to this story. You will cry and laugh as you read through the pages.
If you have read any of these books, you will find many of the same characters. Colton McCord and his sister Cara are also in Teasing Destiny, of which, Cara is one of the three amigos with Destiny and Harmony Briggs. Destiny marries Jefferson James Briggs in Wishing Wells Book 1.
Cara in Book 1 was just cleared from cancer after five years. She was not only a survivor, but she was thriving now. She married Trace Briggs.
This part I found heart-wrenching was when Colton turned 18, his parents having him become Cara's legal guardian should anything happen to them. So, it seems! Just because the doctors had cleared Cara "cancer-free" a year ago didn't mean Colton would stop worrying about her and taking care of her. She would be monitored for the rest of her life.
Colton inherited the ranch from his grandfather, which wasn't part of his dream. Before their parents unexpectedly moved to Florida, he never planned on staying in Wishing Well and running the ranch. After college, Colton wanted one thing, the only girl he ever loved, the one he let go when she was a teenager. He wanted to build be with her, build a life together and have a family. His fate was sealed one cold December day at a bus station when he was seventeen.
Cara wanted him to start living his life for himself - not her. This is what she wanted him to promise as a wedding gift. Cara wanted Colton to have what she has with Trace.
Bella....
The divorce papers were signed but wouldn't be final for another four weeks - technically. Funny how life changes your plans.
Bella never thought she would step-foot back in Wishing Well Texas and hadn't imagined that she would be here attending Cara's wedding. It's been twelve years since the day she got on the bus heading to Seattle. Dring that two-day bus ride, she swore she would never return to her hometown.
The last time Bella saw Colton, he broke her heart, she wanted to show she was fine. When she received Cara's wedding invitation, Bella wanted to throw it away or burn it. But then she received an envelope addressed to Isabella Connor a few weeks ago thinking it had to be someone from her past. Now she had two reasons for going back to Wishing Well. Now wasn't the time to chicken out.
Bella always thought of Cara as a sister and the reason for not tossing the invitation in the trash was because it dawned on her that since things had taken a drastic turn in her life attending this wedding was exactly what Bella needed. She was going home. Whether she liked it or not, she was moving home. Her paternal grandpa, Papa Duke, had passed away years ago and left her the farm. Bella decided she would save up some money and transfer her cosmetology license to Texas, hoping for the best. She had this time to figure out what she was going to do and plan for her twelve year old daughter Sadie Jade who was staying with her soon-to-be ex-husband's parents in Oregan.
This was it, time to face her past. Bella was forcing herself to show up at Cara and Trace's wedding reception, putting a sense of fear in her for whatever reason. She was going to be in Wishing Well for a while, she just didn't know what the future held for her and Sadie. Bella knew she would run into Colton and this was her chance to take control. Did Colton know she was back in town? Did Cara tell him she invited Bella to her wedding/reception?
Bella did show up at the reception and as she was about to get out of her car, she saw Colton come through the doors of the hall. As he gazed across the hall, Colton thought he was seeing a ghost standing at the entrance of the hall. He was looking at the girl he had loved, wearing a beautiful red dress was the one and only Isabella Connor. He thought he was seeing things, a mirage, a figment of his imagination. She was the last person he expected to see back in town.
Cara didn't tell Colton that she invited Bella. Cara didn't say anything because it was sure if she would show up. But she did. Colton approached Bella and wanted to talk to her, but she put up a defense in the process. That was not the time or place for a conversation they needed to have. There was so much that had happened between them over the years and finding out his parents were smack-dab in the middle of it made Colton and Cara mad when the pieces started to fall into place.
Their eyes met and they greeted each other. Colton wanted to talk, but that was the last thing Bella wanted to do. Colton asked her for the second time but she wouldn't go with him. Disappointment
came over both of them. They engaged in a few more minutes of small talk and gone their own way. As soon as Colton became distracted, she made a beeline for the door. Bella knew being back in Wishing Well would bring up a lot of things that she'd buried deep and there was nothing she could do about it. She was about to take a journey down memory lane and it was going to be painful.
For years Bella believed that she was destined to be with Colton J McCord, that their love story was one for the ages, the kind of love that people wrote about, wrote songs about, poetry. Could she have been wrong?
Colton went after Bella once he realized she had left the reception. Cara told him "Just Go!" He didn't want to leave the reception before Cara and Trace left. He didn't want to be like their parents, but Cara insisted. Not able to get into his truck, he took off on foot, walking five miles to get to Bella's farm. Bella was in town to get Papa Duke's affairs in order. He had died years ago. That was one reason why she was in town.
Why hadn't Bella attended Papa Duke's funeral? Bella had been at the Children's Hospital with Sadie; she was in ICU and ended up there for over a month. Bella hired Jan Jenson to manage the property and the rest is history.
The biggest mistake of Colton's life was letting Bella get on that bus. He should have told her he loved her and that he always would. Even though he went looking for her when Cara went off to college, found her married and had a child. That is where he left everything hoping she was happy.
Now finding out she was getting a divorce was Colton's way of getting back into her life and Sadie's realizing that when he finally met Sadie, she looked just like Cara. And, actually, Colton called Sadie Cara until Bella corrected him. Much to Bella and Colton's surprise was when they saw Sadie sitting on the porch of the farm house, wondering how she got there. To make a long story short, Colton has no idea Bella's daughter was his daughter as well. When Bella showed Colton the papers, he signed at the age of eighteen, they were for signing off on his responsibility as a parent which is what he signed in front of his parents. He thought it was for legal guardianship for Cara when they were keeping the knowledge that Colton was a father. His parents didn't want the image of two under-aged kids with a baby, so they deceived Colton into thinking something else. Imagine what he was feeling when he called his parents!
The story goes on.....if you love someone, set them free, if they come back, they are yours.
In the end, Colton and Bella get married and they are expecting another child. Happy reading.
February 12, 2018
An easy to read romance which made me smile.
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