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Veils and Vows #2
A Pinch of Commitment
When falling in love isn’t part of the contract.
Techie Ethan Mattson may have married chef Lily Harper but he didn’t vow to love her. His only commitment was to hand her half of his business assets and a year later file for divorce while saving a tidy sum on taxes.
Little does Ethan know that the pretty woman from his past needs so much more than just a business. She needs protection and love, the two things he feels too broken to offer.
Chef Lily Harper grew up tagging along after Ethan who saved her from bullies, mud puddles and being an outsider. When Lily flees a nasty ex who won’t take a hint, she comes running home to Blueberry Springs, striking a deal with her childhood protector, Ethan. If he marries her, she’ll take his restaurant off his hands, giving him more time to spend on his dream tech business. Not only that, but she’ll finally earn her way into owning a thriving restaurant. It seems like an ideal agreement…until she begins to fall in love.
Will Lily be able to show Ethan how to love again or will their hidden histories ruin their recipe for love?
A Pinch of Commitment is the second book in the Veils and Vows series and it can be read out of series order and as a standalone.
Techie Ethan Mattson may have married chef Lily Harper but he didn’t vow to love her. His only commitment was to hand her half of his business assets and a year later file for divorce while saving a tidy sum on taxes.
Little does Ethan know that the pretty woman from his past needs so much more than just a business. She needs protection and love, the two things he feels too broken to offer.
Chef Lily Harper grew up tagging along after Ethan who saved her from bullies, mud puddles and being an outsider. When Lily flees a nasty ex who won’t take a hint, she comes running home to Blueberry Springs, striking a deal with her childhood protector, Ethan. If he marries her, she’ll take his restaurant off his hands, giving him more time to spend on his dream tech business. Not only that, but she’ll finally earn her way into owning a thriving restaurant. It seems like an ideal agreement…until she begins to fall in love.
Will Lily be able to show Ethan how to love again or will their hidden histories ruin their recipe for love?
A Pinch of Commitment is the second book in the Veils and Vows series and it can be read out of series order and as a standalone.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2017
333 people are currently reading
959 people want to read
About the author
Jean Oram
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Jean Oram grew up in an old schoolhouse in a Canadian town, population 100 (cats and dogs not included). She is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling romance author of feel-good, heartwarming romances that make readers smile.
Jean lives in Canada with her husband, two kids, cat, dog, and the pesky neighbourhood rabbits that hop through her garden like it's an open salad bar. She can often be found outdoors or reading a book. (And of course at her laptop writing your next irresistible read!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 6, 2020
I feel like I missed something that the other reviewers saw. The storyline was a sweet romance, but honestly I did not connect with the writing style or characters. This is part of a series and can be read as a standalone, but there are characters in this story from the previous book and I feel like maybe that is why I feel like I did?
This is the story of Lily and Ethan. He is her childhood crush, she was his sister’s best friend that he always protected. She has had a rough go of things as a professional chef and keeps getting screwed over. He had a horrible accident that kept him from his dream job and living life. She comes back into town and they make a business arrangement that suites them both.
Lily was supposed to have been Mandy’s best friend, yet I feel like Lily never built any relationship with her. They had little to no interaction in this book. They all also claimed she was like part of their family, but I never felt that connection enough to believe it. Ethan at least had somewhat of a connection with his brother Devon and his Grandpa because there was some interaction between the two.
There were a few moments of romance, but I did not connect with this story and characters. The sexy time was left as “understood”, except for a few heated kisses which I was left wanting more. ⭐️⭐️
This is the story of Lily and Ethan. He is her childhood crush, she was his sister’s best friend that he always protected. She has had a rough go of things as a professional chef and keeps getting screwed over. He had a horrible accident that kept him from his dream job and living life. She comes back into town and they make a business arrangement that suites them both.
Lily was supposed to have been Mandy’s best friend, yet I feel like Lily never built any relationship with her. They had little to no interaction in this book. They all also claimed she was like part of their family, but I never felt that connection enough to believe it. Ethan at least had somewhat of a connection with his brother Devon and his Grandpa because there was some interaction between the two.
There were a few moments of romance, but I did not connect with this story and characters. The sexy time was left as “understood”, except for a few heated kisses which I was left wanting more. ⭐️⭐️
June 2, 2017
A Pinch of Commitment is a wonderful, sweet romance. Ethan and Lily will grab your heartstrings and pull. Hard. They are a dynamite couple who have a firm foundation for their love to blossom, grow, and withstand the storms of life. They deserve an HEA after what they have each endured.
Ethan was introduced in The Surprise Wedding as Devon's brother. If you loved Devon, you will love Ethan. They share the same core values and when they love, it is with their entire being. If you haven't read Devon's story, what are you waiting for? It is an awesome 5 star story.
If you like stories that are well-written, with characters that are everyday people, and a top-notch story, look no further. A Pinch of Commitment is the book for you. Actually, all of Jean's books are awesome and I recommend reading everything this talented author writes.
Ethan was introduced in The Surprise Wedding as Devon's brother. If you loved Devon, you will love Ethan. They share the same core values and when they love, it is with their entire being. If you haven't read Devon's story, what are you waiting for? It is an awesome 5 star story.
If you like stories that are well-written, with characters that are everyday people, and a top-notch story, look no further. A Pinch of Commitment is the book for you. Actually, all of Jean's books are awesome and I recommend reading everything this talented author writes.
September 19, 2017
I loved Ethan and Lily. What's not to love especially related to Devon and Mandy. Lily is a story Heroine who is just what Ethan needs and Ethan needs Lily just as much. Two old friends working together in a business proposition and a marriage of convenience, or is it more, of course it is. This is Blueberry Springs. I love this series and this new spinoff series fits perfectly in. I highly recommend this book and the rest of the series. It is funny, heartwarming, HEA, and a few tears along the way
August 31, 2022
A Pinch of Commitment is the second book in the Veils and Vows series by Jean Oram. Ethan Mattson is trying to sell his restaurant and catering business so he can devote his full time to his technical business. Lily Harper, his sister’s childhood friend, comes back to town with a proposition. They get married and after a year, they quickly divorce where she can take the restaurant and catering businesses off his hands while saving them both lots of money. He agrees, vowing not to love her as falling love is not a part of their deal. However, the girl he once knew is now a gorgeous woman who has a nasty ex that won’t leave her alone. Lily has had a crush on Ethan since he rescued her from a mud puddle and school bullies. But she is determined to be strictly business so she can finally have the restaurant of her dreams. Of course, she begins to fall in love. Can their arrangement be the recipe for love?
A Pinch of Commitment is a sweet romance. Ethan is a broken man, both physically and spiritually. Lily is desperate to find a home and belong. Their marriage of convenience seems to be the perfect situation for them. Their sudden marriage raises some eyebrows to the residents of Blueberry Springs, of course, Ethan and Lily try their best to make it look legit. In the process, they begin to fall in love. I loved the character of Gramps as he seems to see through their deception. Overall, I enjoyed A Pinch of Commitment and look forward to reading the rest of the series. I read a lot of criticisms stating that this story isn’t real life, that the town is too perfect. Yes, some of the story elements are a bit far fetched. However, I read most romances for escape. If I wanted real life, I would find a book about real life. If you enjoy small town romances with a happily ever after ending, I recommend A Pinch of Commitment.
A Pinch of Commitment is available in paperback and eBook.
A Pinch of Commitment is a sweet romance. Ethan is a broken man, both physically and spiritually. Lily is desperate to find a home and belong. Their marriage of convenience seems to be the perfect situation for them. Their sudden marriage raises some eyebrows to the residents of Blueberry Springs, of course, Ethan and Lily try their best to make it look legit. In the process, they begin to fall in love. I loved the character of Gramps as he seems to see through their deception. Overall, I enjoyed A Pinch of Commitment and look forward to reading the rest of the series. I read a lot of criticisms stating that this story isn’t real life, that the town is too perfect. Yes, some of the story elements are a bit far fetched. However, I read most romances for escape. If I wanted real life, I would find a book about real life. If you enjoy small town romances with a happily ever after ending, I recommend A Pinch of Commitment.
A Pinch of Commitment is available in paperback and eBook.
January 27, 2022
Lily goes back to her hometown and wants to buy the restaurant from her friend's brother, Ethan. Ethan wants to sell the restaurant and work on his web business. When Lily finds out that the vendors won't honor Ethan's prices unless they are family, they decide that maybe a marriage of convenience will work. Things get complicated when they start planning their wedding and afterwards. Ethan's family is great and very hands-on. Ethan realizes that Lily has grown into a great woman and he wants to know her better. Lily marries her crush and hopes they can have a real marriage. Really good book! Hard to put down!
March 3, 2018
A Pinch of Commitment was a fun book by Jean Oram. In this book was Ethan, the hero and Lily, the heroine. This book tells you about the love in their romance and all of the things they must overcome to become a very happy, loving couple. There’s a bit of mystery in the bakery. A bit of humor added to the love and all around it makes a lovely sweet story with just a dash of “ex’s “, his and hers. I definitely recommend this book be put on your TBR shelf!
I voluntarily read and reviewed honestly an Advanced Reader Copy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed honestly an Advanced Reader Copy.
November 22, 2021
This was a very enjoyable read. A nice story line with a few plot twists that keep you guessing. I like both the main characters, Lily and Ethan. Ethan is a broken man and Lily is out to prove herself. They get involved in a marriage of convenience for the period of 1 year. As the story unwinds, you find yourself rooting for them to realize they love and need each other. Both of their exes play a role in the tale, but I won't give any spoilers. After reading this book, I will read more by this author.
December 15, 2021
Always falls a bit short
The writing is decent enough. The characters are Hollywood depictions. PTSD after a tragic accident, eternal pain, depression and dementia are all perfectly valid things that can happen to people. Characters in books should be fully fleshed people. Accidents that almost kill you should have a more lasting effect than a limp--that's Hollywood. People around you should grieve when you lose your mind in your old age. Don't feed me this he's just eccentric nonsense. Too many clues that he's on a downward slope and that effects everybody in the family.
The writing is decent enough. The characters are Hollywood depictions. PTSD after a tragic accident, eternal pain, depression and dementia are all perfectly valid things that can happen to people. Characters in books should be fully fleshed people. Accidents that almost kill you should have a more lasting effect than a limp--that's Hollywood. People around you should grieve when you lose your mind in your old age. Don't feed me this he's just eccentric nonsense. Too many clues that he's on a downward slope and that effects everybody in the family.
March 10, 2024
The narrative got worse as the book rolled on. More tell than show toward the last 20%. A few edits missed. Okay plot but characters had little depth and ending felt forced to just complete the book. Silly that someone who is suppose to love someone would commit such a dastardly act (not going to spoil it). That was the hidden conflict that didn't surface until 90% through. Not a great read. Self published. She even designed the cover which is actually better than the book. She has written more...no thanks.
December 24, 2021
Pinch of Commitment
JEAN ORAM
Review by Author Roy Murry
This Ethan and Lily novel is a typical boy next door best friend story of them growing up. Each character has hard luck becoming an adult story to tell within the main one. Finally, they come together as adults into a contract.
To save headaches and money, they marry. Lily gets Ethan's restaurants, Ethan gets to do what he wants in high tech. Both their pasts collide and haunt them in a tangled web of love and greed.
This book stands alone if you have read the first in the series. Well-written, the story seems to make sense but is highly unlikely generally in our society today.
A little bit of romance goes a long way as a deceiver in Ms. Oram's series.
JEAN ORAM
Review by Author Roy Murry
This Ethan and Lily novel is a typical boy next door best friend story of them growing up. Each character has hard luck becoming an adult story to tell within the main one. Finally, they come together as adults into a contract.
To save headaches and money, they marry. Lily gets Ethan's restaurants, Ethan gets to do what he wants in high tech. Both their pasts collide and haunt them in a tangled web of love and greed.
This book stands alone if you have read the first in the series. Well-written, the story seems to make sense but is highly unlikely generally in our society today.
A little bit of romance goes a long way as a deceiver in Ms. Oram's series.
November 20, 2021
Pinch me
I am 40% into the book. The author has repeated herself so many times. Yes, we know he is in pain, yes we know it is a marriage of convenience, yes we know she has always loved him..........three times is enough times to tell us this. I read on. Then poof. The author started with the plot. The book became entertaining.
I am 40% into the book. The author has repeated herself so many times. Yes, we know he is in pain, yes we know it is a marriage of convenience, yes we know she has always loved him..........three times is enough times to tell us this. I read on. Then poof. The author started with the plot. The book became entertaining.
November 23, 2021
Unfinished
This is another "how can I love a girl whom I thought of as a little sister" story. While this premise certainly leads to lots of sexual tension, it is fundamentally a story of the kind of poor communication that leads to a terrible marriage. I find these too tedious to finish, I just want to shake the characters and scream, "be honest with each other, you fools!"
This is another "how can I love a girl whom I thought of as a little sister" story. While this premise certainly leads to lots of sexual tension, it is fundamentally a story of the kind of poor communication that leads to a terrible marriage. I find these too tedious to finish, I just want to shake the characters and scream, "be honest with each other, you fools!"
November 27, 2021
I DID adore Ethan & Lily!
Such a mess of misunderstandings and old baggage. Only the really young DON'T have baggage. It's just a matter of sharing so both sides know what the others is. I really enjoyed this story. It was a quick read. Thank you for your time, talent and the story!
Such a mess of misunderstandings and old baggage. Only the really young DON'T have baggage. It's just a matter of sharing so both sides know what the others is. I really enjoyed this story. It was a quick read. Thank you for your time, talent and the story!
November 30, 2021
Engaging story with a delightful h. I also liked the H but felt he seriously needed therapy to overcome his depression and anger issues following his wreck and recovery. The setting and the characters were a strong part of the story and they were awesome. I had already guessed the 'bad guy' and appreciated that he actually helped the H stretch himself in his capabilities.
May 13, 2022
I have enjoyed the Veils and Vows series of books by Jean Oram, but I do think it's best to read them in order because characters keep appearing in them. I enjoyed this novel with its plot of old friends falling in love and having to deal with their own insecurities and limitations. It was a good read.
November 30, 2018
Learning To Trust Again.
Ethan fiancé returned his ring when he’s paralyzed after an avalanche. Lily is betrayed by three different men before retuning to Blueberry Springs. Will their contract marriage lead to trust and love and healing or just more pain? Recommend.
Ethan fiancé returned his ring when he’s paralyzed after an avalanche. Lily is betrayed by three different men before retuning to Blueberry Springs. Will their contract marriage lead to trust and love and healing or just more pain? Recommend.
March 17, 2020
There's a full range of emotion in this one––from silly and fun quirky moments, to deeply heart-felt ones, and then the suspense. Through it all you see that this couple loves each other.
They have trust issues and fears caused by previous relationships to work through to find their HEA.
They have trust issues and fears caused by previous relationships to work through to find their HEA.
April 27, 2020
A really romantic read with some heat. Ethan and Lily start off with a marriage of convenience but sparks fly really soon. Of course there is angst but I loved how it played out. One of my favorites in this series.
Read
March 19, 2021No one does heartfelt emotion like Jean Oram!
Ethan and Lily make a great match - if only they could see past the accidents and fumbled words and past hurts.
A fabulous story full of family, hope, and love!
Ethan and Lily make a great match - if only they could see past the accidents and fumbled words and past hurts.
A fabulous story full of family, hope, and love!
November 24, 2021
This is a sweet romance. It's part of a series, but can be read as a standalone.
I really enjoyed this book, but it was a bit too predictable for my taste. And I don't like when the main characters don't speak about important facts.
I really enjoyed this book, but it was a bit too predictable for my taste. And I don't like when the main characters don't speak about important facts.
November 28, 2021
Marrying for all the wrong reasons
This is a story about 2 very jaded people who choose to marry for all the wrong reasons. They soon realize what they truly want from a marriage. It takes an upset and a near death experience that turns this couple around. Ok read.
This is a story about 2 very jaded people who choose to marry for all the wrong reasons. They soon realize what they truly want from a marriage. It takes an upset and a near death experience that turns this couple around. Ok read.
December 18, 2021
Absolutely Brilliant
The storyline is so compelling that you won't want to put this down to the very end. A story about Ethan and Lily ! Jean does a fantastic job showing romance at its finest.
The storyline is so compelling that you won't want to put this down to the very end. A story about Ethan and Lily ! Jean does a fantastic job showing romance at its finest.
October 22, 2022
Enjoyable read.
I really enjoyed the plot in this story.
Watching two people work together and fall in love is fun.
I did find the way the author so beautifully described the emotions of a guy who feels judged by the scars left from an accident.
I really enjoyed the plot in this story.
Watching two people work together and fall in love is fun.
I did find the way the author so beautifully described the emotions of a guy who feels judged by the scars left from an accident.
October 30, 2023
Learning to trust...tough.
After a trauma or betrayal, learning to trust again takes time. Sometimes, you never trust again. Lily and Ethan have a long road ahead, if they are lucky enough to keep moving forward.
After a trauma or betrayal, learning to trust again takes time. Sometimes, you never trust again. Lily and Ethan have a long road ahead, if they are lucky enough to keep moving forward.
September 30, 2017
An all kinds of romantic sighs while reading this story.
books-boxed-sets
April 25, 2020In boxed set - "Hometown Hope"
May 3, 2020
Read as part of Hometown Hope free box set - best antidote so far
June 2, 2020
I enjoyed this story, tho it’s short and sweet
August 15, 2020
Fair to middling as far as the Hometown Hope Anthology went.
November 27, 2021
Great story
This was a real swoon worthy love story. . The characters are great. Lily and Ethan overcome a lot to end up making their marriage real.
This was a real swoon worthy love story. . The characters are great. Lily and Ethan overcome a lot to end up making their marriage real.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews