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Red Maple Falls #2
Crushing on Kate
It was love at first sight until he opened his mouth. Born and raised in the small town of Red Maple Falls, it's impossible for Kate Hayes to meet a guy she hasn't known since first grade. When she is approached by a ridiculously attractive, unfamiliar face during one of her glass blowing demonstrations, she can't help but get her hopes up. Until he opens his mouth. Caleb James established his bike shop in the middle of nowhere to escape his past. When the owner of the adjoining business blocks his parking spots to put on her "arts and crafts hour" he has no choice but to shut her down. What he doesn't expect is the fresh-faced beauty who refuses to accommodate his requests. Nor does he expect for the small town to be filled with big personalities who feel the need to force their way into his life, refusing to leave him alone. While Caleb continues to fight Kate, and tries to keep his distance, holding on to a vow he made to himself to never trust again, she tears down every wall he's ever built. Will the promise of a future with Kate be enough to break the promise of his past?
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2017
811 people are currently reading
857 people want to read
About the author
Theresa Paolo
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Short bio:
Romance author, lover of books, 90's pop music and happily ever afters. Writes YA under Tessa Marie.
Long bio:
Theresa Paolo lives in Long Island, NY with her fiancé and their fish. She writes steamy small-town romances with sassy heroines, sexy heroes and feisty townspeople. When she's not writing, she's reading, brewery hopping, or daydreaming. She loves coffee, all things Christmas and fall, and making lists.
She also writes YA romance under Tessa Marie.
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Amazon: http://amzn.to/2sDLm4v
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2uhOCa5
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2taVwy8
B&N: http://bit.ly/2u6lUcr
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2rmPYfl
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/2pGF0E6
iBooks: http://apple.co/2qNthUA
Sign up for my newsletter and receive a FREE book: http://eepurl.com/_PwjL
Short bio:
Romance author, lover of books, 90's pop music and happily ever afters. Writes YA under Tessa Marie.
Long bio:
Theresa Paolo lives in Long Island, NY with her fiancé and their fish. She writes steamy small-town romances with sassy heroines, sexy heroes and feisty townspeople. When she's not writing, she's reading, brewery hopping, or daydreaming. She loves coffee, all things Christmas and fall, and making lists.
She also writes YA romance under Tessa Marie.
For updates on upcoming releases and sales, sign up to receive Theresa's newsletter: http://www.theresapaolo.com/p/sign-up-fo...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheresaPaoloAut...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheresaMarieP
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theresamariep/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/71...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theresamariep/
Blog: http://www.theresapaolo.com/
If you subscribe to Bookbub make sure to give me a follow: http://bit.ly/2voBXyF
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
August 28, 2019
If you enjoy reading a small town romance, you might want to give this one a try. Caleb, an avid mountain bike rider, is trying to escape a painful past. He decides to set up a bike shop, almost at his first sighting of this quaint little area & hopes to live a quiet life. Not gonna happen. Everyone here knows everyone's business & attempts to draw Caleb out of his self-imposed shell.
Kate is an artist & has a relatively successful glass blowing business next to the shop Caleb now owns. They have a disagreement at their first meeting but slowly start to mend fences. It also doesn't hurt that these two are both happily single yet so hot for the other.
Kate has a huge family & most are very protective of her & combined with some hilarious towns people, their budding relationship can't stay quiet for long. There were a few tense moments but no major drama or angst to this story. This is a stand-alone & a fun read.
Kate is an artist & has a relatively successful glass blowing business next to the shop Caleb now owns. They have a disagreement at their first meeting but slowly start to mend fences. It also doesn't hurt that these two are both happily single yet so hot for the other.
Kate has a huge family & most are very protective of her & combined with some hilarious towns people, their budding relationship can't stay quiet for long. There were a few tense moments but no major drama or angst to this story. This is a stand-alone & a fun read.
April 20, 2019
I’ll pass
I wish I had better things to say, but I appreciate honest reviews from others and will reciprocate. The punctuation is appalling, as if the author didn’t pay attention in her literature courses. While I don’t expect the great American novel, at least put commas in natural breaks of the sentence if you don’t know the rules. The dialogue was very predictable and boring. I don’t understand why the required antagonism needs to portray juvenile, rude, crude, one-dimensional characters. In my opinion, there needs to be more to falling in love than chemistry and orgasms. Please give us something to allow us to suspend disbelief when a character realizes she’s in love (right after hot sex with a virtual stranger). I felt nothing at all for these characters, except relief when I was finished reading about them.
I wish I had better things to say, but I appreciate honest reviews from others and will reciprocate. The punctuation is appalling, as if the author didn’t pay attention in her literature courses. While I don’t expect the great American novel, at least put commas in natural breaks of the sentence if you don’t know the rules. The dialogue was very predictable and boring. I don’t understand why the required antagonism needs to portray juvenile, rude, crude, one-dimensional characters. In my opinion, there needs to be more to falling in love than chemistry and orgasms. Please give us something to allow us to suspend disbelief when a character realizes she’s in love (right after hot sex with a virtual stranger). I felt nothing at all for these characters, except relief when I was finished reading about them.
April 25, 2017
*swoons*
I received this ARC and let me tell you, I DEVOURED it in a single sitting! D.E.V.O.U.R.E.D it!!! What a delightful story!
This charming story is set in a small town called Red Maple Falls. Kate Hayes is the owner of a glass blowing studio and Celeb James has just moved next door to open a bike shop. They butt heads few times initially because he feels she is blocking his parking spots to put on her "arts and crafts hour". Their chemistry is just off the charts and it is not long before they are falling for each other.
Every character in the story stays with you long after you finish reading the book. Every scene is either heart touching or funny or sometimes both. It was not just a book for me, it felt like I was a part of Red Maple Falls - I laughed out loud when Terry, a town resident old enough to be a grandma visits Celeb to buy a bike in leopard print because if she was "going to get healthy, she was going to do it in style". There is fun banter between Kate's grandma Betty and her husband, their love is evident even after fifty seven years of marriage (#MarriageGoals). The scene where Celeb visits the town "drunkard" old Man Simpson because he understood what loneliness felt like was really heart warming.
Celeb was a wonderful lead character who has been through so much heartache and loss, you can easily sympathize with him when he says happy endings don't exist. Kate is perfect for him - she is confident and spunky and tears down his walls, one brick at a time.
The ending was just perfect with the entire town coming together to search for missing Celeb. Teressa has done a wonderful job with the story. She could write 922 stories about every single person in Red Maple Falls and I would still not get enough of this beautiful town.
Want to read
April 4, 2019🎁 FREE on iBooks today (4/4/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Born and raised in the small town of Red Maple Falls, it’s impossible for Kate Hayes to meet a guy she hasn’t known since first grade. When she is approached by a ridiculously attractive, unfamiliar face during one of her glass blowing demonstrations, she can’t help but get her hopes up. Until he opens his mouth.
Caleb James established his bike shop in the middle of nowhere to escape his past. When the owner of the adjoining business blocks his parking spots to put on her “arts and crafts hour” he has no choice but to shut her down. What he doesn’t expect is the fresh-faced beauty who refuses to accommodate his requests. Nor does he expect for the small town to be filled with big personalities who feel the need to force their way into his life, refusing to leave him alone.
While Caleb continues to fight Kate, and tries to keep his distance, holding on to a vow he made to himself to never trust again, she tears down every wall he’s ever built. Will the promise of a future with Kate be enough to break the promise of his past?
Blurb:
Born and raised in the small town of Red Maple Falls, it’s impossible for Kate Hayes to meet a guy she hasn’t known since first grade. When she is approached by a ridiculously attractive, unfamiliar face during one of her glass blowing demonstrations, she can’t help but get her hopes up. Until he opens his mouth.
Caleb James established his bike shop in the middle of nowhere to escape his past. When the owner of the adjoining business blocks his parking spots to put on her “arts and crafts hour” he has no choice but to shut her down. What he doesn’t expect is the fresh-faced beauty who refuses to accommodate his requests. Nor does he expect for the small town to be filled with big personalities who feel the need to force their way into his life, refusing to leave him alone.
While Caleb continues to fight Kate, and tries to keep his distance, holding on to a vow he made to himself to never trust again, she tears down every wall he’s ever built. Will the promise of a future with Kate be enough to break the promise of his past?
May 2, 2019
Two unpleasantly rude characters who act like spoilt brats and have no consideration for each other. Then it turned into a sexfest and I was done with reading at 25%
April 29, 2017
Everyone's read a book, that from the very first page, you know right away that its going to be a good one. Crushing on Kate is one of those books. It starts off with a very cheerful female lead, whose happy with life, has a great family, great friends and clearly a business that is definitely picking up plus she happens to clearly love living in a small town where everyone knows each other. But then her new business neighbor turns out to be the really grumpy kind, gorgeous but is definitely not going to be happy with small town living. But then he happens to notice she's very beautiful and she definitely is feeling that attraction for even grumpy men. Kate is strong willed and knows what she wants while Caleb has issues and lots of emotional baggage. But what otherwise could have turned out to be dragging and angsty instead develops into a very honest, lighthearted, emotional and definitely hot small town contemporary romance that is so wonderful you clearly want Kate and Caleb to get to their HEA but then you also really want to stay in the town of Red Maple Falls.
Crushing on Kate will have readers laughing and crying and slowly falling in love with not just Kate and Caleb but also for the town of Red Maple Falls.
*ARC provided*
Crushing on Kate will have readers laughing and crying and slowly falling in love with not just Kate and Caleb but also for the town of Red Maple Falls.
*ARC provided*
March 25, 2025
Good story
This was a cute, quick read. I loved
that Caleb found family in the small towns people. Especially like the connection with Bert.
This was a cute, quick read. I loved
that Caleb found family in the small towns people. Especially like the connection with Bert.
April 12, 2018
Love this series by Theresa Paolo
August 29, 2019
Appalling Editing Ruined This For Me
While the plot and characterization may be okay, the grammar and word usage are shockingly poor. Not only is the editing company acknowledged, the book is dedicated to the owner of said company. I looked the company up; its rates are half that of other companies, and this author is getting exactly what she is paying for. I try to find something to praise even when I do not like a book. I hope, however, that my brutality here will push the author into finding a better editor and mentor so that literate readers will be able to stomach and even enjoy her work.
While the plot and characterization may be okay, the grammar and word usage are shockingly poor. Not only is the editing company acknowledged, the book is dedicated to the owner of said company. I looked the company up; its rates are half that of other companies, and this author is getting exactly what she is paying for. I try to find something to praise even when I do not like a book. I hope, however, that my brutality here will push the author into finding a better editor and mentor so that literate readers will be able to stomach and even enjoy her work.
August 10, 2019
A contemporary romance based on the standard formula of enemies-to-lovers where the protagonists have an initial clash of wills, but soon give in to their strong mutual attraction. Here it’s the girl who does most of the chasing, well aware that hot guys like Caleb are rare in tiny Red Maple Falls.
The plot is predictable, but props to the author for weaving in some unusual occupations: glass-blowing, bicycle building, and craft beer brewing are all described in fascinating detail. There is a large cast of supporting characters to add interest and keep things moving.
Regrettably, I don’t care for the writing style which, to me, is basic and flat with lazy repetitions and excessive description of details that add nothing to the action. It’s also badly in need of editing, especially with regard to punctuation and grammar. It’s not the worst I’ve read, but it certainly lacks polish. I wish some of these authors would dare a more original approach instead of using the same stock phrases, especially in the awkward, uninspired sex scenes. Fingers threading through the lover’s hair, crushing lips, heat spreading from their core. It’s like writing by numbers ... although this heroine has a unique move: she slides her teeth over her bottom lip. I’m not sure how much that would enhance her “magical” beauty.
The characters are formulaic. Hero: ideal man, charitable, handsome, passionate, besotted with the heroine but with a secret, tormenting past that holds him back; heroine: feisty, sassy, with a sexy, curvy body despite her passion for junk food , crazy about the hero but unsure of his feelings. Kate is part of a large family and knows everyone in town. Her interactions with her brothers and sisters are sweet, if a bit cheesy. Caleb is alone in the world, except for his father. Actually, he turns out to be a much more interesting character than anticipated.
The romance starts out as insta-lust and develops (a bit quickly) into forever love. On the plus side, the story is a celebration of idealized small-town solidarity where everyone is friendly, welcoming, and ready to band together for the common good. It’s wishful thinking, but why not? I’d rather read an inoffensive feel-good book than another dark, disturbing kidnap and murder mystery.
The plot is predictable, but props to the author for weaving in some unusual occupations: glass-blowing, bicycle building, and craft beer brewing are all described in fascinating detail. There is a large cast of supporting characters to add interest and keep things moving.
Regrettably, I don’t care for the writing style which, to me, is basic and flat with lazy repetitions and excessive description of details that add nothing to the action. It’s also badly in need of editing, especially with regard to punctuation and grammar. It’s not the worst I’ve read, but it certainly lacks polish. I wish some of these authors would dare a more original approach instead of using the same stock phrases, especially in the awkward, uninspired sex scenes. Fingers threading through the lover’s hair, crushing lips, heat spreading from their core. It’s like writing by numbers ... although this heroine has a unique move: she slides her teeth over her bottom lip. I’m not sure how much that would enhance her “magical” beauty.
The characters are formulaic. Hero: ideal man, charitable, handsome, passionate, besotted with the heroine but with a secret, tormenting past that holds him back; heroine: feisty, sassy, with a sexy, curvy body despite her passion for junk food , crazy about the hero but unsure of his feelings. Kate is part of a large family and knows everyone in town. Her interactions with her brothers and sisters are sweet, if a bit cheesy. Caleb is alone in the world, except for his father. Actually, he turns out to be a much more interesting character than anticipated.
The romance starts out as insta-lust and develops (a bit quickly) into forever love. On the plus side, the story is a celebration of idealized small-town solidarity where everyone is friendly, welcoming, and ready to band together for the common good. It’s wishful thinking, but why not? I’d rather read an inoffensive feel-good book than another dark, disturbing kidnap and murder mystery.
March 25, 2020
I'm trying to get through some books in my Kindle and this one has been in my library for a few years now. This is also my first read from this author.
What I liked:
I liked the small-town setting and also the big family, lots of siblings setting. Again, this is my first read but I didn't feel so lost because the author did do a good job in reintroducing all of the family members so you can know who's who.
Speaking of the sibling plot, I liked how each one is very relatable. I liked the connection that each shares with one another. In the book you would definitely see who's the boss, who's the baby and so forth. It reminds me so much of my own siblings and how we all have an unspoken role in the family.
I also liked that both main characters have substance and vulnerabilities. I especially liked that Kate is a go-getter. She doesn't pine about someone and just sits there and wait. I like that he has her own business and knows when to speak her mind.
What I didn't like:
As much as I was engaged with the characters in this book, I was very disappointed with the amount of steamy scenes in this book. I know that there's physical attraction between the two but really, every other chapter seemed like a hook up scene and I wished this book would focus more on their budding relationship or even their relationship with the other characters rather than on the physical sex. It just seemed like they didn't even have any logic doing it in the woods and other public places. That was quite disappointing.
I also didn't care for the foul language.
Over all I thought the book would be a stronger read if we took out the foul language and the excessive steamy scenes. This book had some good things going on here and the writing was good too. I think that it would stand alone without all of the other "stuff".
What I liked:
I liked the small-town setting and also the big family, lots of siblings setting. Again, this is my first read but I didn't feel so lost because the author did do a good job in reintroducing all of the family members so you can know who's who.
Speaking of the sibling plot, I liked how each one is very relatable. I liked the connection that each shares with one another. In the book you would definitely see who's the boss, who's the baby and so forth. It reminds me so much of my own siblings and how we all have an unspoken role in the family.
I also liked that both main characters have substance and vulnerabilities. I especially liked that Kate is a go-getter. She doesn't pine about someone and just sits there and wait. I like that he has her own business and knows when to speak her mind.
What I didn't like:
As much as I was engaged with the characters in this book, I was very disappointed with the amount of steamy scenes in this book. I know that there's physical attraction between the two but really, every other chapter seemed like a hook up scene and I wished this book would focus more on their budding relationship or even their relationship with the other characters rather than on the physical sex. It just seemed like they didn't even have any logic doing it in the woods and other public places. That was quite disappointing.
I also didn't care for the foul language.
Over all I thought the book would be a stronger read if we took out the foul language and the excessive steamy scenes. This book had some good things going on here and the writing was good too. I think that it would stand alone without all of the other "stuff".
April 21, 2025
If you’re looking for a small-town romance with a new guy who swoops into town, opens a business next to the FMC, and they both act like petulant little bratty children—well, here you go.
Cue the hero, who has a tragic past, all his exes were apparently supermodels, but shocker—gasp—our heroine doesn’t look like one! She has curves, and guess what? She actually eats food! What a concept! She’s the “I’m not like other girls” trope, and it’s so obvious, I was almost waiting for her to pull out a “I wear glasses, but I’m secretly gorgeous” moment.
And let’s not forget about Grandma. She’s the wacky, meddling, over-the-top character who could have been fun, but nope. Instead, she’s just thrown in for comedic relief. She doesn’t really do anything other than pop in, say something ridiculous, and disappear. There was no depth to her, no warmth—just a weird, random sprinkle of chaos for the sake of chaos.
But, of course, the cherry on top was the hero’s lovely self-sabotage. They have sex for the first time, and boom—he immediately decides she deserves better than him, as though she doesn’t have the ability to think for herself. Oh, and he resents everyone for thinking he’s pretty. Like, seriously? You’re mad that people compliment you on your looks? Give me a break. It’s so cliche, it’s borderline cringey. Sorry, it is OVER the border cringey!!
This book just wallowed in every tired trope under the sun and made me want to throw my earbuds out the window.
Cue the hero, who has a tragic past, all his exes were apparently supermodels, but shocker—gasp—our heroine doesn’t look like one! She has curves, and guess what? She actually eats food! What a concept! She’s the “I’m not like other girls” trope, and it’s so obvious, I was almost waiting for her to pull out a “I wear glasses, but I’m secretly gorgeous” moment.
And let’s not forget about Grandma. She’s the wacky, meddling, over-the-top character who could have been fun, but nope. Instead, she’s just thrown in for comedic relief. She doesn’t really do anything other than pop in, say something ridiculous, and disappear. There was no depth to her, no warmth—just a weird, random sprinkle of chaos for the sake of chaos.
But, of course, the cherry on top was the hero’s lovely self-sabotage. They have sex for the first time, and boom—he immediately decides she deserves better than him, as though she doesn’t have the ability to think for herself. Oh, and he resents everyone for thinking he’s pretty. Like, seriously? You’re mad that people compliment you on your looks? Give me a break. It’s so cliche, it’s borderline cringey. Sorry, it is OVER the border cringey!!
This book just wallowed in every tired trope under the sun and made me want to throw my earbuds out the window.
June 12, 2019
Crushing on Kate (book 2 in the Red Maple Falls novels) by Theresa Paolo was a good book when I read it, so when I got the chance to review the audio book, I jumped on it. The first few minutes are always the worst for me until I am able to adjust to the new voice. This was no different. Krista Nicely was a good pick to read this book. Her voice was even and used enough inflection to differentiate the characters without resorting to ridiculousness. It is relatively short at just over 5 hours, the perfect length for many listeners.
Kate owns a glass studio in a small town. Her new neighbor, Caleb, is opening a bike shop and does not seem all that pleasant. Kate, being the nice girl she is tries multiple times to offer him a gesture of friendship. He is not easy, but she is irresistibly drawn to him. One evening they give up and have sex in the back of Caleb's shop...then he leaves. Kate is understandably upset, but so drawn to him. Can she help Caleb overcome his resistance and build something real? Or at least get along?
Crushing on Kate is a fun, easy read/listen. The characters are good. She plot is simply feel-good romance, which is fine. The book was good. The audio book is good. I recommend either if pleasant and fun is what you are looking for.
I received a free audio copy of Crushing on Kate. All opinions expressed herein are solely my own.
Kate owns a glass studio in a small town. Her new neighbor, Caleb, is opening a bike shop and does not seem all that pleasant. Kate, being the nice girl she is tries multiple times to offer him a gesture of friendship. He is not easy, but she is irresistibly drawn to him. One evening they give up and have sex in the back of Caleb's shop...then he leaves. Kate is understandably upset, but so drawn to him. Can she help Caleb overcome his resistance and build something real? Or at least get along?
Crushing on Kate is a fun, easy read/listen. The characters are good. She plot is simply feel-good romance, which is fine. The book was good. The audio book is good. I recommend either if pleasant and fun is what you are looking for.
I received a free audio copy of Crushing on Kate. All opinions expressed herein are solely my own.
February 21, 2020
First, I like the cover- I think it's a beautiful cover that does a good job representing what the story is about and has a sweetness that I enjoy.
Now, to the story, this is a small town romance, an enemies to lovers book. Kate and Caleb are work neighbors and Caleb is new to the town. They have a contentious relationship most especially because Caleb starts off as an irritable mean person. He has a past that explains why he is how he is but while I like enemies to lovers stories, I thought that he took his anger out on Kate a little too much. With time, though, he became better and I liked their relationship. Their HEA was welcome and i liked their banter as they started to get into their groove. As always, the small town effect was wonderful with many fun, sweet characters supporting the main couple.
I own the ebook but received the audiobook upon request. While I thought that Krista Nicely did a pretty good job narrating the story, I didn't think she differentiated between the male and female characters or even other characters very well. I think having two narrators, one male and one female would have been better. However, she did a good job with pacing and emotions so overall, I felt like the narration was enjoyable.
🎧AudiobookObsessionReviewer, AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Now, to the story, this is a small town romance, an enemies to lovers book. Kate and Caleb are work neighbors and Caleb is new to the town. They have a contentious relationship most especially because Caleb starts off as an irritable mean person. He has a past that explains why he is how he is but while I like enemies to lovers stories, I thought that he took his anger out on Kate a little too much. With time, though, he became better and I liked their relationship. Their HEA was welcome and i liked their banter as they started to get into their groove. As always, the small town effect was wonderful with many fun, sweet characters supporting the main couple.
I own the ebook but received the audiobook upon request. While I thought that Krista Nicely did a pretty good job narrating the story, I didn't think she differentiated between the male and female characters or even other characters very well. I think having two narrators, one male and one female would have been better. However, she did a good job with pacing and emotions so overall, I felt like the narration was enjoyable.
🎧AudiobookObsessionReviewer, AudiobookObsessionReviewer
March 12, 2020
I enjoyed this book in the Red Maple Falls series. For some reason I didn't connect with it quite as much as I did with the first one, but overall I found this one a fun read.
Kate is fed up with the business owner that moved in next to her glass shop. He is rude and a jerk. Caleb has moved to a new town to settle down and open a bike shop. His one problem is the woman who owns the glass shop next door. As these two butt heads, will they discover that there's more than just annoyance between them?
I liked both Caleb and Kate in this book. They were really good together and I had fun reading about them. I don't know if I can really say what made this a three-star book for me other than I just didn't connect with it as much. I also felt like the conflict was resolved really quickly and easily and there wasn't enough care given to the feelings in that situation. I did enjoy seeing characters from the previous book, too! And I do like that both Caleb and Kate have their own lives and everything doesn't revolve around the central couple.
There was more difference in Krista Nicely's voices for the different characters in this book versus the first one. But I still wish there was a bit more distinction. Other than that, she did a really good job in narrating this book!
*I received a copy of this audiobook from Audiobook Obsession in exchange for an honest review*
Kate is fed up with the business owner that moved in next to her glass shop. He is rude and a jerk. Caleb has moved to a new town to settle down and open a bike shop. His one problem is the woman who owns the glass shop next door. As these two butt heads, will they discover that there's more than just annoyance between them?
I liked both Caleb and Kate in this book. They were really good together and I had fun reading about them. I don't know if I can really say what made this a three-star book for me other than I just didn't connect with it as much. I also felt like the conflict was resolved really quickly and easily and there wasn't enough care given to the feelings in that situation. I did enjoy seeing characters from the previous book, too! And I do like that both Caleb and Kate have their own lives and everything doesn't revolve around the central couple.
There was more difference in Krista Nicely's voices for the different characters in this book versus the first one. But I still wish there was a bit more distinction. Other than that, she did a really good job in narrating this book!
*I received a copy of this audiobook from Audiobook Obsession in exchange for an honest review*
March 26, 2018
I flew through Crushing on Kate in a little more than a day. I fell in love with the entire Hayes clan and the town of Red Maple Falls in book 1 (Mad About Matt) so it really came as no surprise.
I was hooked from chapter 1. Kate owns a glass blowing shop in town, which is her pride and joy. The store connected to hers was vacant for a few months but recently a bike shop opened up. Caleb, the owner of the bike shop, and Kate get off on the wrong foot while she's trying to do her weekly demonstration in their shared parking lot. The two butt heads for a while but there's an undertone of attraction that finally explodes.
Kate is a strong-willed heroine who isn't afraid to speak her mind. Caleb carries around a lot of emotional baggage that he keeps holed up inside. Eventually, Kate is sick of Caleb withholding his past from her and pulls the information out of him. We get to see exactly what happened in his past and why he guards his heart. The characters do get their HEA and we see more of them in later books in the series.
The progression of the story was believable and, as usual, the secondary characters really enhanced the story. I do wish we got to read more about the relationship that developed between Caleb and old man Simpson beyond the few quick mentions it received in the book.
I was hooked from chapter 1. Kate owns a glass blowing shop in town, which is her pride and joy. The store connected to hers was vacant for a few months but recently a bike shop opened up. Caleb, the owner of the bike shop, and Kate get off on the wrong foot while she's trying to do her weekly demonstration in their shared parking lot. The two butt heads for a while but there's an undertone of attraction that finally explodes.
Kate is a strong-willed heroine who isn't afraid to speak her mind. Caleb carries around a lot of emotional baggage that he keeps holed up inside. Eventually, Kate is sick of Caleb withholding his past from her and pulls the information out of him. We get to see exactly what happened in his past and why he guards his heart. The characters do get their HEA and we see more of them in later books in the series.
The progression of the story was believable and, as usual, the secondary characters really enhanced the story. I do wish we got to read more about the relationship that developed between Caleb and old man Simpson beyond the few quick mentions it received in the book.
August 22, 2017
I won this book in a Goodreads giveway and enjoyed the read. It is an easy quick read that can be done in an afternoon if you aren't interrupted.
I like Kate's personality, tried hard not to let things get her down. Caleb was understandably a little stand offish because of his past. I enjoyed meeting all the members of Kate's family and can't wait until more books come out. I am definitely going to read the first book in the series.
The story line was a believable one, it didn't stretch the imagination like some do. Both Caleb and Kate came to respect each others passions in the process of getting to know each other. I liked the fact that they took their time. Their coming together didn't happen in a matter of days. Yes the passion was there from the beginning but they got to know each other over time.
The only problem I had was when it was divulged who Caleb's ex-girlfriend left him for. In the book he said that Gia left him for someone with more money, but he grew up in a middle class family so how did that happen?
I recommend the book and am looking forward to more books in the seried.
I like Kate's personality, tried hard not to let things get her down. Caleb was understandably a little stand offish because of his past. I enjoyed meeting all the members of Kate's family and can't wait until more books come out. I am definitely going to read the first book in the series.
The story line was a believable one, it didn't stretch the imagination like some do. Both Caleb and Kate came to respect each others passions in the process of getting to know each other. I liked the fact that they took their time. Their coming together didn't happen in a matter of days. Yes the passion was there from the beginning but they got to know each other over time.
The only problem I had was when it was divulged who Caleb's ex-girlfriend left him for. In the book he said that Gia left him for someone with more money, but he grew up in a middle class family so how did that happen?
I recommend the book and am looking forward to more books in the seried.
March 4, 2020
Listened to the story on Audible. The narrator did a good job. She doesn't quite fit the characters for me; sounds a little older than in my mind, but she still did a great job. I'd recommend listening.
I just love the feel of this story; hopeful and heartfelt. It's easy to root for the characters because they are just such good people that deserve good things. Love the connection between Kate's family; I'm super excited to read all of their individual books. In this one, local girl Kate and new to town Caleb get off to a not so great start when they argue over business matters, so there's a bit of enemies to lovers thing going on. There's a passion between them, but Caleb has his walls up due to some difficulties in his past. Loved Kate and Caleb's banter back and forth; Kate has just the right amount of sass to shake grumpy Caleb up. The romance is steamy! But still has lots of heart. Love all the scenes with the whole family, and Red Maple Falls is a fun setting with some interesting characters. Looking forward to reading Mason's book next! So far, this series is fun to read!
I just love the feel of this story; hopeful and heartfelt. It's easy to root for the characters because they are just such good people that deserve good things. Love the connection between Kate's family; I'm super excited to read all of their individual books. In this one, local girl Kate and new to town Caleb get off to a not so great start when they argue over business matters, so there's a bit of enemies to lovers thing going on. There's a passion between them, but Caleb has his walls up due to some difficulties in his past. Loved Kate and Caleb's banter back and forth; Kate has just the right amount of sass to shake grumpy Caleb up. The romance is steamy! But still has lots of heart. Love all the scenes with the whole family, and Red Maple Falls is a fun setting with some interesting characters. Looking forward to reading Mason's book next! So far, this series is fun to read!
March 6, 2020
In a small town, there are no secrets. Kate has been waiting to see who would take over the space next to her glass blowing store. When she meets good looking, sexy Caleb, you would think things would be looking up. But not with these two. The clash is strong and loud. Caleb is opening up a bike shop, and when he meets Kate, his is taken with her good looks until she begins to speak! These two are fun to listen to. The banter that goes back and forth is that enemies to lovers foreplay I love so much. And the whole town knows it...there are no secrets! But how long before these two know there is more than glass blowing and bicycles? and will they realize their growing feelings? As I get to know the characters, it's like coming home! Especially Kate's grandmother! What a hoot she is! It's a fun listen, with the hometown feel.
Krista Nicely is becoming the voice for Red Maple Falls and I am enjoying her voice. She is falling into characters with ease, even bringing back Matt & Sadie with the voices she used previously. She is making this small town a welcome place to visit.
Krista Nicely is becoming the voice for Red Maple Falls and I am enjoying her voice. She is falling into characters with ease, even bringing back Matt & Sadie with the voices she used previously. She is making this small town a welcome place to visit.
June 16, 2020
This is the first time I read other reviews before writing my own. I found it interesting in the criticism of the writing and punctuation because I saw no issues.
I read very quickly and this book kept me engaged. I also write for a living, though my writing is resumes and other career marketing material so a different kind of writing. However, it is a bit unusual that I found none of those glaring errors cited in other comments. Perhaps it has been edited since those reviews or perhaps those critics enjoy leaving negative reviews.
The storyline was intriguing and reading about Kate and Caleb's relationship combined with the small-town support system was refreshing in a time that everything is so difficult and mean throughout the United States and really the world. I even read the prequel to Mason's book.
I read very quickly and this book kept me engaged. I also write for a living, though my writing is resumes and other career marketing material so a different kind of writing. However, it is a bit unusual that I found none of those glaring errors cited in other comments. Perhaps it has been edited since those reviews or perhaps those critics enjoy leaving negative reviews.
The storyline was intriguing and reading about Kate and Caleb's relationship combined with the small-town support system was refreshing in a time that everything is so difficult and mean throughout the United States and really the world. I even read the prequel to Mason's book.
July 8, 2020
Title: Crushing on Kate
Author: Theresa Paolo
Format: Audio
Narrator: Krista Nicely
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Small Town, Sports (cycling), enemies-to-lovers
Standalone: Yes
Part of a Series: Book 4 of Red Maple Falls
POV: Kate and Caleb
Steam Level: Steamy
4/5
Small towns - where everyone knows you and your business. Crushing on Kate was a cute enemies to lovers romance where neighboring businesses are warring over the parking lot. I liked the characters created in this small town, with the restaurant-owner who feeds you what she wants you to eat, the grandmother who wants great-grandbabies and the sexy business owner next door. Crushing on Kate was a fun listen that had me smiling throughout.
I received this audiobook for free from Audiobook Obsession. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Author: Theresa Paolo
Format: Audio
Narrator: Krista Nicely
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Small Town, Sports (cycling), enemies-to-lovers
Standalone: Yes
Part of a Series: Book 4 of Red Maple Falls
POV: Kate and Caleb
Steam Level: Steamy
4/5
Small towns - where everyone knows you and your business. Crushing on Kate was a cute enemies to lovers romance where neighboring businesses are warring over the parking lot. I liked the characters created in this small town, with the restaurant-owner who feeds you what she wants you to eat, the grandmother who wants great-grandbabies and the sexy business owner next door. Crushing on Kate was a fun listen that had me smiling throughout.
I received this audiobook for free from Audiobook Obsession. This is my honest and voluntary review.
May 19, 2019
Outgoing Kate meets Recluse Caleb
Kate is a small town successful business owner, friendly & outgoing. Caleb is a single man trying to make a fresh start after losing his brother Milo to cancer. Caleb opens a bike shop next door to Kate's glassblowing shop. Caleb was drawn to Maple Falls, but he has no idea how people in small towns help each other. Caleb is determined to keep pushing his neighbors away. Kate is equally determined to break down his walls & get to know Caleb. Despite his best efforts Caleb can't seem to keep his distance from Kate. Will Caleb ever open his heart again? He feels he can't trust anyone to not leave him again. Will Kate be the one to show Caleb he can trust her?
Kate is a small town successful business owner, friendly & outgoing. Caleb is a single man trying to make a fresh start after losing his brother Milo to cancer. Caleb opens a bike shop next door to Kate's glassblowing shop. Caleb was drawn to Maple Falls, but he has no idea how people in small towns help each other. Caleb is determined to keep pushing his neighbors away. Kate is equally determined to break down his walls & get to know Caleb. Despite his best efforts Caleb can't seem to keep his distance from Kate. Will Caleb ever open his heart again? He feels he can't trust anyone to not leave him again. Will Kate be the one to show Caleb he can trust her?
June 2, 2017
Crushing on Kate was a fantastic sequel to an already brilliant series. Mad About Matt was one of my favorite reads of 2017, and I couldn't wait to dive into Kate's story.
First off, I feared Caleb would be the typical Alpha-hole, but he was so not. He was a strong alpha male with a sweet side that won me over. Anyone who knows me knows that I am #teambetaman all the way, but Caleb has risen in the ranks of book boyfriends.
The chemistry between the two characters was palpable in each scene together, and the way the story unfolded was flawless. I couldn't stop reading until it was over.
And MASON is next! #favorite
I can't wait to continue reading about Red Maple Falls!
First off, I feared Caleb would be the typical Alpha-hole, but he was so not. He was a strong alpha male with a sweet side that won me over. Anyone who knows me knows that I am #teambetaman all the way, but Caleb has risen in the ranks of book boyfriends.
The chemistry between the two characters was palpable in each scene together, and the way the story unfolded was flawless. I couldn't stop reading until it was over.
And MASON is next! #favorite
I can't wait to continue reading about Red Maple Falls!
August 6, 2019
Enjoyed this book. Good, calm narrative tone with a great small-town feel. The dynamic between both characters was entertaining from the get-go, albeit the pacing of their relationship was a little stilted at times, . I like how their reactions to each other differed from how they interacted with the other personalities in town, clearly emphasizing them as the MCs without leaving anybody else out. There was just enough foreshadowing about the twist for it to be deciphered halfway through the story, but it never really spoiled my reading experience.
March 31, 2020
Kate has a glass blowing shop. Caleb is new to town has a bike shop next to hers. They bump heads over parking spots for their businesses. since the small mall had few parking spots. He eventually finds her intriguing, Kate is feisty and does not back down from him. An enemies to !overs story with drama added in. Secrets he's hiding. He has built a wall around his emotions, and he noticed that Kate was slowly breaking it down. except for the darkest secret of all that he doesn't want to talk about. Krista Nicely narration was very good. I enjoyed listening to the story.
🎧audioboookobsessionreviewer🎧
🎧audioboookobsessionreviewer🎧
July 16, 2024
Caleb is new in town as he lost his brother recently and had to family to speak of. He opens a bike shop (something his brother and him were going to do) and next to his shop is Kate's glass shop. Every weekend she puts on a demonstration in their shared parking lot. Words are said between the two. They finally come to an agreement about the parking lot, but also between them. The chemistry is there but neither one moves on it. Caleb finally becomes a person that Kate can speak to in a normal conversation. As they talk to each other it starts to heat up. The book is a good read and I am looking forward to rest of the stories from Maple Falls.
January 31, 2025
Caleb and Kate
3.5*
I listened to the audio through Bookfunnel. The narrator did a good job.
Caleb is the new guy in this small town and opened his bike shop next door to Kate's art studio. These two first encounter starts off with them bickering in the parking lot of their business. After a bunch of back and forth things escalate, but Caleb has issues from events in his past. I thought it was cute, sweet and funny. My favorite character is the meddling grandma. This is a new author to me. Can be heard/read to as a standalone but you do get a glimpse of what's going on with Matt and Shay.
3.5*
I listened to the audio through Bookfunnel. The narrator did a good job.
Caleb is the new guy in this small town and opened his bike shop next door to Kate's art studio. These two first encounter starts off with them bickering in the parking lot of their business. After a bunch of back and forth things escalate, but Caleb has issues from events in his past. I thought it was cute, sweet and funny. My favorite character is the meddling grandma. This is a new author to me. Can be heard/read to as a standalone but you do get a glimpse of what's going on with Matt and Shay.
March 1, 2024
Love story about a woman from a large, loving family, a very small town, and a new guy in town who is a loner.
Kate and Caleb both have shops sharing the same parking lot. They clash when she uses some space in the lot for demonstrations. However they eventually become friends and lovers. He has experienced severe losses in his life and has sworn that he will not fall in love again.
There is some sex, some conflict, and a whole lotta love.
I listened to the audio version of this book. I thought the narrator was great.
Kate and Caleb both have shops sharing the same parking lot. They clash when she uses some space in the lot for demonstrations. However they eventually become friends and lovers. He has experienced severe losses in his life and has sworn that he will not fall in love again.
There is some sex, some conflict, and a whole lotta love.
I listened to the audio version of this book. I thought the narrator was great.
May 4, 2017
Great story. I did not read book #1 but it seems like this series could be as a stand alone. They mentioned the couple from the first book but nothing was missed. Kate was a ball buster and told you like it was, no BS from this girl who ran her own business. Caleb was trying to hid out in this small town by opening a bike business. He didn't think about how being in a small town everyone knows everyone and each other's business. These two are perfect for each other!
ARC review.
ARC review.
April 29, 2019
What a book!
One of the first tonnes a book has finished and I wanted just a bit more... I wanted Caleb to know that old man Simpson came out for him along with everyone else, sadly as it ended Kate was the only one mentioned which I felt lost a big part of the importance of the town and people.
Other than that mild criticism, loved the story, a great read and would happily come back to the series!
One of the first tonnes a book has finished and I wanted just a bit more... I wanted Caleb to know that old man Simpson came out for him along with everyone else, sadly as it ended Kate was the only one mentioned which I felt lost a big part of the importance of the town and people.
Other than that mild criticism, loved the story, a great read and would happily come back to the series!
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