Единственото истинско нещо

Hart's Boardwalk #1

by Samantha Young, Саманта Йънг, Елена Лорънс (Translator)

Доктор Джесика Хънтингтън е емоционално отдадена единствено на работата си в женския затвор. В миналото си тя е претърпяла предателства и загуби, които са я научили да се пази и да не се доверява, за да не бъде наранена отново. Но когато намира купчина стари любовни писма, животът на Джесика неусетно поема в нова посока. Писмата са написани от затворничка, която така и не ги е изпратила. Историята в тях е важна и Джесика осъзнава, че трябва да намери човека, за когото са били предназначени. Така тя решава да иде в Хартуел - градчето, свързано с тези писма. То се оказва живописно и пълно с изненади – удивително привлекателният собственик на един от местните барове е идеалното доказателство за това.
Любовта дебне там, където не я очакваш. Купър Лоусън е забравил това до момента, в който Джесика Хънтингтън не влиза през вратата на бара му. Въпреки че и той се опитва да запази останалите здрави части на разбитото си сърце, човек не може да се съпротивлява, когато срещне любовта. Единственото истинско нещо, за което човек си струва да се бори.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Adult, Audiobook, New Adult, Chick Lit

448 pages, Paperback

First published September 6, 2016

About the author

Samantha is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee. Samantha has written over 60 books and is published in 31 countries. She writes emotional and angsty romance, often set where she resides—in her beloved home country Scotland. Samantha splits her time between her family, writing and chasing after two very mischievous cavapoos.

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Reviews

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s never too late to change the road that you’re on.

If you’re looking for a sweet, emotional and sexy romance that takes place in a charming small town look no further. The One Real Thing is just the book for you! When I saw Samantha Young had a new series out, I couldn’t wait to read it. There was so much I loved about this story! It was near perfect for me. I definitely can’t wait to continue with the rest of the series!

Our story starts with Dr. Jessica Huntington. Jessica works as a doctor in a woman’s correctional facility. She’s a bit of a loner. She has no family to speak of, her best friend lives out of state with his family, and besides a few co-workers and a friends-with-benifits relationship with a fellow doctor, she keeps to herself. She likes it that way. When Jessica finds some old letters at the prison, she is compelled to do something about it. Her vacation is coming up, and she does something completely out of character for her. She goes to the small beach town of Hartwell to deliver them in person.

While in Hartwell, Jessica’s life is drastically changed. She meets Bailey, a girl who instantly becomes her best friend. Shy Emery who works at the book store and befriends her as well. This town is like a family. She also meets the sext bartender/bar owner, Cooper Lawson. Cooper was burned by his ex-wife and doesn’t do relationships anymore. But there is something about Jessica… Jessica is a tough nut to crack. She’s not very open, but there is something about her that compels Cooper to get to know her better.

The chemistry between Cooper and Jessica was palpable. You could feel it vibrating between the pages. I really loved the two of them together. Cooper is an amazing hero. I loved many of the other towns people They were a truly charismatic group! This was easily on it’s way to becoming a 5 star favorite for me. But somewhere towards the end things got a little bumpy. Although it didn’t take away my overall enjoyment of the story, some things Jessica did and drama from the outside made it not quite reach that 5 star mark for me personally.

Both of these characters had things in their past that made them hesitant to be in a relationship again, or to fall in love. What I loved about this story was how they helped each other work through that, and despite it all- love bloomed.

The One Real Thing is a great start to Young’s new series. I, for one, can’t wait for Bailey and Tremaine’s book. I LOVE those love stories that first stem from love/hate. I have a feeling it could be epic! I thoroughly enjoyed this small town love story and can’t wait for more from all of these characters!!!

[Rachel L · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars!



A great start to a promising new series!

Samantha Young is one of my all time favorite authors, it's rare when she delivers a book I don't enjoy. While this book is definitely a change of pace compared to her past books, I enjoyed it all the same.

Jessica Huntington is a doctor for a woman's correctional facility where she finds a few letters that are forty years old who never reached their intended recipient. Her vacation time is coming up soon, so she decides to spend it at Hart's Boardwalk so she can return the letters in person. Upon arriving she meets bar owner Cooper Lawson, and there is an immediate attraction between them. Both have pasts that make them hesitant to begin a new relationship, but they both feel a strong pull. It's just a matter of both of them overcoming their pasts to make this work.



I think this book shows what a wonderful writer Samantha Young is, everything was very refined and worded beautifully, and her attention to detail was amazing. Yes, the beginning is slow like other reviewers have mentioned, but to me that's only if you are expecting romance right away. This is a slow burn novel but you don't have to wait until the very end for results. I also feel that much of this novel was set up for the entire series, and Young needed to set the stage for her readers.

Cooper and Jessica were very sweet together, but I found myself more interested in the side characters at certain parts and found there was a little bit too much drama between the two of them. Yes they both had past issues, but I kind of expected them to work them out a bit smoother since they were in their thirties and not their twenties. I really want to know more about Bailey, Tremaine, Emery and Cat! All fantastic side characters with a lot of depth to them.

Overall I think we can come to expect great things from this series, I know I am very excited for the next book because I am already half in love with those characters.

ARC was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review

[Maria✦❋Steamy Reads Blog❋✦ · Rating 4 out of 5]

➦This is a story about taking chances, opening yourself up to new experiences and finding happiness in unexpected places.

➦Jessica, the heroine of this novel works as a physician at the women's correctional facility where, one day, she finds a stack of love letters. She then realizes that the woman who wrote said letters has passed away but never had the chance to send out the letter to the love of her life.

➦Being overwhelmed by the tragic love story, Samantha takes a much needed vacation to the small town in order to give the letters to the man who they are addressed to.

➦What she finds there is very unexpected - a friend in a hotel owner where she's staying, a lover in a sexy bar owner who gives her shelter from the rain, a place where she feels content and happy in a small touristy town.

➦So when the three weeks of vacation are up, will Jessica take a chance and stay? Change job, may be? Try something new?

➦I enjoyed this book just fine. It's a bit on the long side with angsty and, at times, somewhat depressing undertones, but I was committed to finishing it. Some parts might have left me a bit teary-eyed. If you enjoy emotional reads with troubled heroines and sweet/affectionate heroes then, by all mean, give it a shot! Samantha Young's writing is, as always, fantastic.

[Christie«SHBBblogger» · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: The One Real Thing
Series: Hart's Boardwalk #1
Author: Samantha Young
Release date: September 6, 2016
Cliffhanger:No



Prepare yourselves, this could be an uncontrollably gushing review. I loved this book that much. It's rare when a story's pieces fill every space you didn't know you needed filling, and that's what this one did for me. I've liked a lot of books, but when you feel that rightness wrap around and encompass you every moment while reading it's something completely different. From the moment I opened up this book and stepped inside the lives of Cooper and Jessica I was swept away in their story. It charmed me, made my heart speed up in excitement, and left me feeling complete when I turned the last page. To me, that's the perfect reading experience.

Working as the doctor in a women's prison isn't exactly every person's dream job, but she felt like she was making a significant difference in people's lives. She had a purpose, even if she didn't exactly have much satisfaction in her personal life. She has few friends, and isn't able to allow more than a physical relationship with men. An emotional attachment was something she couldn't afford-risking someone seeing into the core of her was too risky. There was blackness there that could never be exposed.

Jessica's simple vacation turned into a trip that would change the path of her entire life. After finding some old letters that held earth-shattering secrets that never got delivered, something pushed her to finally put them in the hands of the man who needed to see them. It was a tragic love story, one that she couldn't allow to leave unresolved. And it was in that cozy small town on the water she found a whole lot more than she ever bargained for.

(...) for the first time in a very long time I wanted everything with a man. And for the first time ever I was going to see if it was possible to have everything with this man.

Cooper is the sexy bar owner who met one rainy day and immediately, for me, I felt the feeling of coming home between them. As if there was a counterpoint that was finally pulled together and locked into place just by glancing in each other's eyes. It wasn't love at first sight, but more a sense that they were right for one another without even trying. He couldn't get the beautiful doctor off of his mind and he was determined to get to know her. I loved his determination and drive in the face of her reluctance. It only made him more dead set on exploring what they could have together.

I was much too aware of him for my own good. The feelings he incited in me, this stranger with his bar, well...it was just a complication I didn't need.

He was drawn to her intelligence, independence, and compassion for other people. But he soon started to see that she wasn't everything she first appeared. She was skittish about her past, her family. And the more he pushed to try to break through and shatter her silence, you could feel things heading towards disaster. They were desperately clinging to each other by a thin thread, her secrets were ones that had the power to snap their tenuous hold and leave them shattered.

I was way past falling.
I'd fallen.
Hard.
The idea of losing him was crippling.

He wasn't without his own painful past. A horrible betrayal left him incredibly wounded and still trying to heal. But that didn't stop him from realizing the importance of what he found with Jessica. I loved that about him. There was no distancing on his part, he knew what he wanted and he wasn't afraid to work for it.

Honestly, after the build up throughout the book, I was nervous that the final reveal may be deflating. I couldn't be more wrong, the impact was everything it promised to be. Jessica had to come to a place where she finally had the confidence to expose her most shameful secret and risk everything on being accepted for who she was. I had tears in my eyes when she bared herself to him, it really broke my heart. Everything she was carrying around herself had been a heavy weight that needed to be lifted in order for her to feel completely at peace with the man she loved. The letters were the key, bringing everything full circle. I loved the part they played, the tragedy in the story bringing hope in another.

Besides the amazing sexual chemistry and heat between these two characters, and the natural growth of their very believable emotions, there was so much more to love. The quaint town of Hartwell was filled with intriguing people just waiting for their own stories. I would read each and every one of their books no questions asked. The author spent a considerable time developing these secondary characters and creating a group of friends that were completely fleshed out and intriguing. I'm officially stalking this series until it comes to a close. I can't wait to see what's in store for us next.

FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review



The first time I read the On Dublin Street, I was addicted. Okay, I will admit I was obsessed with the series and anything related to Samantha Young. Yes, I was that reader who was sad when the series came to an end. Long live Braden and Jocelyn. So as you can tell, I am a BIG Samantha Young fan. I love the way she can make your hearts go pitter patter and at the same time have you blushing. The way she tells a story is somewhat poetic and hypnotizing. Her characters are vibrant and charismatic. And of course, she writes romance that is filled with passion, breathtaking moments, and raw emotions. So when I found out that she was going to write a new series, I was beyond ecstatic. I was that reader who squealed when I got a copy of the book early.

The One Real Thing is a viscerally moving love story that beautifully showcases heart, beauty and understanding. Samantha Young delivers a story that will leave you breathless and smiling big as she paints a literary love story that is timeless and full of charm. With charismatic characters, a unique premise, and a fresh voice, Samantha Young will tether reader’s heart to this tangible and heartfelt small town romance. I have always been a sucker for small town romance. Maybe there is something in the air or the simplicity of the story line but either way, Young has readers like myself smiling big as we hungrily turn the pages. So if you are looking for a romance that was sweet, heartfelt, tangible, palpable, and utterly captivating then I would definitely recommend you to read this book. Get swept away with Young’s vibrant and stunning prose and raw characters.



Samantha Young

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-3.5 STARS

The One Real Thing is the first book of a new series by Samantha Young.If you are a fan of her like me then you definitely will be excited as much as I was when I started.Samantha Young has a way with her words captivating the reader and traveling us through her stories.



This story was good,I didn't find something that I didn't like but also I didnt find something to impress me and keep my excitment.The beginning was too slow for my taste but I can understand that it's a new series so we need to have a nice view of the characters and what is happening in this place.The main couple was cute,ineteresting,hot and sexy.I just couldn't connect 100%.

But this will not stop me from reading the next book!!I'm sure it will be much better!


 

  

[☘Misericordia☘ ⚡ϟ⚡⛈⚡☁ ❇️❤❣ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Q: “We’re in our thirties, not dead.” (c) You find some old letters, take an unusual vaacation and everything changes overnight. Troubled heroes, love story, blah-blah. But I loved it.
PS. I want a book about Emery.

Q:
“You read thrillers?” She didn’t seem like the thriller type. She seemed like the magic and fairy-tale princes type.
“I read everything,” she replied softly (c)
I SO loooved that our protagonist went to a bookshop while on holiday. I'm kinky and I know it!
Q:
“What else do you like to read?” I said, before she could escape me.
Emery seemed surprised by the question. “Oh . . . I like everything.”
“Okay. Who is your favorite author?”
She wrinkled her nose and I saw a glimmer of a smile on her lips. “That’s like asking which I prefer: oxygen or food.” (c) Oh, yes! A love aggair with books! Pure magic!

Q:
One of my favorite feelings in the whole world is that moment I step inside a hot shower after having been caught outside in cold, lashing rain. (c)
Q:
Nothing sweeter than coming home to your man after a long day at work. (c)
Q:
Our sex dates were weekly and I’d gotten used to getting myself a little something-something on a regular basis so I figured I’d better get it while he was around to give it. (c)
Q:
Our sex dates were weekly and I’d gotten used to getting myself a little something-something on a regular basis so I figured I’d better get it while he was around to give it. (c) Ouch.
Q:
You are the only person I will say this to in my life: stop reading so many damn books. (c)
Q:
“You can kid yourself all you want that you’re happy, but you and I both know there should be more to life than how you’re living.” (c)
Q:
“Is my life empty?”
“Sweetheart,” he replied.
And everything was in that one word.
Jesus Christ, Matthew thought my life was empty.
He would. (c)
Q:
Honestly, the whole idea of taking a vacation to get perspective on my life scared me a little. What if I found perspective and realized I really did hate my entire life? That would suck, black-hole-style. And who needed to deal with a black hole, right? (c)
Q:
“You’re lucky I love you, you condescending ass.”
“You’re lucky I love you, you pain (c)
Q:
Maybe it didn’t have to be this monumental trip that would somehow change my life. Maybe it would just be a vacation. Three weeks of peace and contentment. (c)
Q:
I watched with fascination as she seemed to get sucked into her book from the moment she opened it...
I had the fanciful thought that she was escaping, and that she’d escaped into pages and words so many times in her life that falling down the rabbit hole was like second nature to her. I wondered what she was escaping from. (c)
Q:
How the hell was I supposed to resist temptation if temptation had every intention of being irresistible? (c)
Q:
“Bailey Hartwell hit eighteen and decided she was done growing up.” (c)
Q:
“You can save lives, but you can’t cook?”
“You can cook, but you can’t save lives?” (c)
Q:
I’d surprised her.
But more than that, I’d surprised me.
And it felt good. (c)

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The One Real Thing is Samantha Young's debut into a new series focused around a quiet seaside town in Delaware. The story follows Dr. Jessica Huntington to the town in hopes of giving truth to a man who has been without it for too long. Jessica works as a Doctor for prison inmates and while working she finds a series of letters from a past inmate who has passed away. Reading the letters, she learns the tragic past of the inmate and her one true love, and her heart breaks for the couple. She decides that the man needs to know what really happened, and is saddened that these letters were never sent to him. So she uses her vacation to go the small town of Hartwell and personally deliver the letters.

But Hartwell isn't just a tourist town, it's a town with a romantic history, and it's said that if you're destined to meet your own true love, it will happen on the boardwalk. For Jessica her world changes once she arrives in Hartwell and meets it's residents, making friends with almost everyone she comes across. And then there's Cooper, the bar owner with a chip on his shoulder about relationships. He wanted nothing to do with another relationship, not with the way his marriage ended, but Cooper just can't seem to get the sexy Doctor off of his mind and he's determined to make her give him a chance.



This story was equal amounts of sexy and sweet, and I loved the mix of emotions that was involved in it. There are many small town romances out there and it's something that I've read over and over again, so honestly it takes something extra special now for me to actually love it and not just enjoy it some. Well Ms. Young definitely put that extra dose of special into this story and I loved every minute of it. I can't even point one one reason why I liked it so much, it was just everything. The characters, the small town charm, the sexiness thrown in, even the bit of thrill brought on with the towns douche-bags. I just loved all of it!

Cooper, though, he was a big reason why I liked this book so much. He may have been burned in the past, and that certainly held him back some, but he never let his past hurts keep him from finding a future. The way he went after Jessica and made her realize that life had so much more to offer than just being content was swoon worthy. I already want to re-read this book just for him.

Overall, this book was amazing and something I will strongly recommend. The mix of characters kept me intrigued and I already can't wait for the next book to see what's going to happen with town and people.

[Jessica ❁ ➳ Silverbow ➳ ❁ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Fun enough start to Young's new series, but there were some seriously cornball moments (like the heroine referring to herself as needing "a little something something"), so I can't give it full marks.

Kind of felt like a cross between whatever that Jill Shalvis HARBOR series is called (LUCKY?), and anything KA. With Young's trademark hideously painful dark past thrown in, of course.

[Katy Loves Romance ❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Doc Stars

"It's never too late to change the road that you're on."



Have you ever been at a part in your life where you are feeling lost maybe? Tired? Stuck in one place, not really moving forward? Well that's how Jessica feels like.

Jess is a Doctor, a doctor at a lady's prison facility. She works in a place where she feels like she is needed. She helps, and maybe even tries to understand them. Yet she never does anything for herself. That is until she finds a set of letters from 40 years prior and somehow they make her feel like she needs more out of life. So off she goes to a small town and a tourist town that holds real character and depth into the surroundings and people who live there. She decides it's time to take a break for 3 weeks off she goes.

Cooper owns the local bar and jess stumbles into Cooper on one rainy morning. Where they find something in each other they both need.

This is the kind of book that takes you to an unknown world, or to travel and feel what the characters feel while they're drinking their coffee, reading their books. Chatting to the locals, making friends. Loving life. Living and breathing for the first time in a while.. I suppose how anyone does when they just step back from life In general..

And then Cooper the charming bar owner and the caring loving man that he is, finds something in Jess that he wants to explore.. And well she may as well enjoy it just a little, if only she took the chance.



This was a great summer read for me. It's about taking chances, and enjoying and finding a place in the world. In some ways it had the same kind of feel as on Dublin Street but then not in others. I loved the characters, the friendships that were formed. And more so I want to find out about more maybe in future books in this series.

But I LOVED both Cooper and Jessica/Doc and their gradual friendship to relationship form.. And then read the chemistry and sex explode in front of my eyes cause boy there are some HOT steamy moments, some anguish and anxious times in the mix when real life wants to mix with the fantasy I suppose.



The only issue I had was that this wasn't all that realistic, it is fiction at its best. And it is read in third person. I prefer to read it through them rather than around them. That's just me, that said I think it was done well. But it's not my favourite way to read so at times I felt slightly detached. Again MY ISSUE and I will highly recommend it to any Sam Young lover. She did good, I went into a world where I love to visit. It kind of reminded me of Cornwall (if you live in the UK then you'll know) if not it's a pretty seaside place that has pretty beaches, where you can eat scones and drink cream tea. It had that kind of feel and I always love to go there.. And I suppose you get to enjoy what it's like to LIVE in that town rather than be the tourist that we usually are.

I'd had no idea how much I was missing a sense of serenity in my life.

Enjoy Xo

Arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved the premise of The One Real Thing and I’ve been a big fan of Samantha Young’s romances, but this didn’t hold the same magic for me as her previous books. I had a really tough time even getting into the story. I didn’t feel connected to Jessica. I didn’t even know what her true issue was until about 75%, and even then it wasn’t all revealed, so it was hard to have sympathy for her when I had no idea what was going on. I didn’t feel much chemistry or emotion for the romance either. Cooper was lovely, but I wasn’t exactly sure why he was so attracted to Jessica. How she changed him from a no-strings-attached kind of guy to “in this for the long haul” was a mystery to me. There was a lot of sex by the second half, but I found myself skimming a lot of the scenes because I just didn’t feel it.

I must admit that my disappointment with The One Real Thing may be partly due to the fact that I now have a lower tolerance for last minute drama. You know that point when you hit about 75% into the story? I know some sort of conflict is necessary to keep a reader engaged and invested, and I’m totally on board if that conflict seems natural, and not manufactured just for the sake of drama. In this story, I was just frustrated by what I thought was ridiculous conflict. I hate it when a character holds back and won’t share even when it’s clear that the other party is worthy of their trust. Cooper shared and confided in Jessica and yet she wouldn’t do the same causing a huge rift and break between them. What’s worse is that the secret she hid didn’t seem like anything a person should or would be ashamed of. Yes, I can understand having some guilt in the matter, but this was over the top (for me) and it just felt unbelievable and unrealistic. There are many others who loved this story, so don’t just take my opinion on this story.

I will say that I’m interested in Bailey and Vaughn’s romance in the next installment. I felt more sparks between them than I did with Cooper and Jessica.

A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.

[Eliza · Rating 4 out of 5]

The One Real Thing is Samantha Young’s eagerly anticipated introduction into her new Hart's Boardwalk series. It’s a charming small town romance set in an idyllic town full of characters who are begging for their stories to be told. In short, post reading I can confidently say, be prepared to loose your heart in Hartwell.

For Jessica Huntington, Hartwell is the perfect location when she finds herself at a crossroads in her life. Working as a Doctor in a women’s prison, she is lead to Hartwell when she discovers some letters embedded in one of the library books. Intrigued and taken with it’s tragically romantic undertones, she embarks to deliver the letters to their intended recipient. Once in Hartwell however, the letters take a back seat when she becomes enamoured with he town and it’s residents.

Along with the town’s attractions comes Cooper Lawson. His interest in Jessica goes beyond that of mysterious tourist, and his unashamed pursuit of her made me a fan almost instantly. It’s a sweet relationship that progressively blossoms, but it’s Jessica’s past that contributes to the dramatic element of the story.

It in some ways it reminded me of Kristen Ashley’s Colorado Mountain series . Samantha cleverly weaves snippets of some residents story into proceedings. Combined with the ever present community spirit, it succeeds in hooking the reader into the next potential book whilst still be immersed in the present one.

The One Real Thing was a delightful reading experience and another string to Samantha Young’s bow. The town, it’s residents and it’s author guarantee that i’ll be visiting again soon.


 

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 - "If you're destined for true love, you'll find it on the boardwalk..." Stars.

The first book in Samantha Young’s new Hart’s Boardwalk series offers an interesting introduction to the seaside town and its residents through the telling of Jessica and Cooper's story.



It’s been a while since I have read anything by Samantha Young, in fact it is approaching the three years mark, so to say that my reading tastes may have changed in the interim is most definitely true, but I also wonder if the author’s writing style has in that time as well.

"Only time will tell."

The One Real Thing is one of those books that from the synopsis I expected to fall into hook, line and Kindle, I am a reader that is all about the series trope of being set in a small town, and covering a different couple in each progressive book, and although the author set things up perfectly in that sense, I actually found the main story between Jess and Coop to be a little lacking… in everything really.

"It’s never too late to change the road that you’re on."

Both had backgrounds that implied a lot of drama, but to be honest as secrets were revealed and reaction to situations were clarified, I just struggled to find much depth in their reasoning for things. The sex was plentiful once it got going, but lacked for me any connection, and the selective communication about certain things from both sides as things progressed between them got a little frustrating.

"Communication is the key."

The secondary drama with exes seemed superfluous, and the side drama with the Devlin family at this point does show promise, especially when you add the elusive millionaire Vaughn Tremaine into the picture, and the rest of the business owners along the boardwalk. I liked this side of the book a lot more to be honest, with the set up and introduction of a handful of characters that I hope will have their own stories told as the series progresses.

"I don’t know your secrets… But from your reaction, I know you have them."

The One Real Thing wasn’t by any stretch a struggle too read, but for me I just found it lacked a lot of emotional depth, the first half more-so than the second. I’m my head everything was coming across in monotone, as if the writing and characters voices had lost their color. The author has skills at weaving a story together with many aspects and components in the mix, I just wanted a little more depth and feeling between the lead characters in this one.

"I’m not too big on drama."

Bailey Hartwell is up next, with her story coming to the fore in Every Little Thing, due for release in March 2017. She figured quite a bit in this book, but there were more questions raised than answers given for her, so I am interested to see where the author takes her story. There are also a few secondary characters whose side-stories were running concurrently that I am looking forward to catching up with as well.

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.

[Aestas Book Blog]

**** SOUNDS GOOD!!! ****

While Doctor Jessica Huntington engages with the inmates at the women’s correctional facility where she works, she’s always careful to avoid emotional attachments in her personal life. Loss and betrayal taught her that lesson long ago. But when she comes across a set of old love letters in the prison’s library and visits the picturesque town of Hartwell to deliver them to their intended recipient, she finds herself unable to resist the town’s charm—and her attraction to the sexy owner of a local bar proves equally hard to deny.

Since his divorce from his unfaithful ex-wife, Cooper Lawson has focused on what really matters: his family and the boardwalk pub they’ve owned for generations. But the first time Jessica steps into his bar, Cooper is beyond tempted to risk his heart on her...

Pre-order: http://amzn.to/1TPrcOI

[Jacqueline's Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Small Town Love Stars
I love Samantha Young. I will admit that I cried sad tears when her On Dublin Street series ended. I could have read tons more books in that series, but I was beyond excited and happy for The One Real Thing.

The One Real Thing is a standalone and it’s completely different from the On Dublin Street series. I feel like The One Real Thing is a bit tamer and more chick lit, but it still has the steam I crave for in any Samantha Young read.

Jessica isn’t an ordinary doctor. She was once a surgeon but now she’s the doctor at a women’s prison. She chooses to help people more than make the big bucks as a world class surgeon. Jessica is a good and sweet person. I loved that she is a doctor and I also love that she has a big heart. When she finds some old letters in one of the prison books and decides to take a three vacation to find the person the letters were written for.

She ends up taking a vacation in a small town. I love small town books. I think secretly because I want to live in a small town or that I’m a mega fan of Gilmore Girls. I love that everyone is in your business and I love all the quirky people.

Cooper owns the local pub on the boardwalk. He’s a simple man. He loves his pub and he loves his town. He has a sister he loves as well and his friends are his family. When he notices tourist Jessica, he realizes he wants her, even if she is a little flaky at first.

I love Cooper’s reaction to first meeting Jessica. It’s adorable and cute and I love it when the Hero pursues the Heroine. This is a meaty book so there’s plenty of character development and chemistry between the two main characters.

Of course, Cooper has a past, like a needy ex-wife and Jessica is a little closed off because of her past. I love the slow build between Jessica and Cooper. I felt like I could connect to the characters and the small town.

I found The One Real Thing refreshing, light and a little different from Samantha Young’s previous books. I like the new direction and I hope the next book is about Vaughn and Baily because I have a secret crush on him. Fingers crossed!

An ARC was provided

AMAZON

[Sharon ∞❥ is an emotional book junkie ❥∞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ★'s

Ms. Young's On Dublin Street series is one of my favorite series and has a couple of my favorite book boyfriends so naturally, I had to check this series out.

Jessica is a doctor at a women's prison and finds some letters left years ago by a prisoner. The letters touched something inside her and when her vacation plans fall apart, she decides to take the letters to their intended party.

Unfortunately, the recipient is away at the moment but it's fortunate for Jessica because she falls in love with the place and the people on Hart's Boardwalk. It feels like home for her...something she hasn't had in a very long time. And then she meets Cooper and that's just icing on the cake!

Cooper's about eighteen months post divorce. He's had his playing around but he's not wanting to repeat his mistakes. He feels something different for Jessica...something he hasn't felt before and he wants more.



Jessica feels it too but she's made a commitment to someone else...and she's afraid. She's never felt all these things, well, not for a very long time since a traumatic event in her past made her shut all those feelings down. She's not sure if she should open herself up again and just live!

I loved the push and pull between Cooper and Jessica even with all the clichéd dramas. I loved how they couldn't resist each other and how much they grew.

I really enjoyed getting to know the boardwalk people...what a lively bunch! I loved trying to figure out who was going to end up with who (see spoiler below if you're interested) and how a certain someone would be redeemed!

I also got a big kick out of Cooper's nephew, Joey, and hope to see more of him in future books...and possibly a Cat (his mom) book?

I thought things ended well and I liked how things were set up for the next couple. It's gonna be a doozy! Can't wait for more of Ms. Hartwell and Mr. Tremaine! Their book, Every Little Thing, comes out March 7, 2017.


(Prior to review...)

One of my favorite things about a new series is predicting who the next couples will be...especially when it's as easy as Ms. Young has made it for us. I'm listing mine ~and I'd love to hear yours!~ but I'm putting it under spoilers in case you don't want to know!

Couple Predictions:

Emery --> Jack -or- Bailey's new assistant which has to be a guy since there are too many women!
Dahlia --> New Chef
Jack --> Emery -or-.....CAT!! (that would be soooo good-after he redeems himself of course!)
Cat --> Jack -or-....MATT!! (if something happens to Matt and his wife...the blended family would be sooo sweet!)
Matt --> Cat

that's it for now...though I might change my mind! (9/12)

[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK...where to start. I had some problems with the book...
First about what I loved: the characters, the location, the whole boardwalk atmosphere!!!
What I didn't like... The main part about the story: the letters from prison - got totally lost after Jess arrived in town. George is in Canada and bam, we never talk about those letters again until the end when he comes back. That was a bit weird.
The story just drags along once all the introductions to the town and its people are made.
BUT, as I mentioned before, the town and the people are amazing. It was just a tiny little bit too much about all the others.... I'm not sure if I love it or hate it when future books get started in the first book in a series. I kinda love it that they will all get their own book, but it was a bit too much about Bailey and Vaughn and all the others...
I think Sam or an editor should've cut out a little bit in the middle of the book.... it was just too long.
And it reminded me a lot of those series by Susan Mallery (Fool's Gold) and Jill Shalvis (Lucky Harbor) - which is not a bad thing, because I LOVE THOSE!

And I loved this book too. Cooper was so adorable and Jess was a bit weird with all her secrets and fears about them. Unnecessary. But ... still loved her too.

Can't wait to read book #2 - because I think Vaughn might the most interesting guy in town. ☺

[*TANYA* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Samantha Young's stories keep getting better and better!!! Great book to start off this series. I'm really looking forward to the next book in line!!!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

Amazing just amazing



I 've read On Dublin Street years ago an I 've luvd everything that this author as done since so I was really dyin for this book I got sucked into this straight away an I couldn't get enough the story it was great as was the characters I just know this series is goin to b as good as On Dublin Street series



I luvd Jessica's character she is so caring an kind an would do anything for anyone but she as been through something horrible she as built her walls so high its even hard for her to see over them she doesn't do relationships she as a fuck buddy that she as been with on an off an it works for her she's a doctor an very good at her job she now works as a doctor in a woman's prison an it ok she enjoys it but there is something missing in her life an when she finds some letters from an inmate in a book that was written years an years ago to the luv of her life but she never got to send them an Jessica had to give these letters to this person she just seemed to get some sort of connection to these letters an she was goin to do something about it so she took a vacation to Hartwell an this is whee her life was goin to change when she meet the must sexiest man ever Cooper Lawson an boy is he sexy





Cooper as had to deal with a lot of crap in his life as well but life is goin ok at the min but it just got a,whole lot better when he bumped into the beautiful Jessica like I said he as been through crappy stuff a divorce losing his mum and best friend so meet Jessica is the best thing but he had to work for it the one thing that worked for him was that he was luvd by everyone in the small town of Hartwell an he does break down a bit of Jessica's wall but it's not enough they r so made for each other an work so well but there r some horrible people in Hartwell that well do anything to make it hard for these people an they have the good doctor an Cooper in there sights bastards



This story was just brilliant I didn't think the author could creates a better character then Braden Carmichael he is the most sexiest man ever but omg I thing Cooper Lawson is amazing I luvd him straight away he is so sexy an the way he was with Jessica just amazing they were so good together but I enjoyed al the characters in this book an it's just made me want more I luv Bailey's character she is so bubbly and her an Jessica r so funny at times but god she can b fiery at time an will kick ass if she as to I can't wait for her book I just know it's goin to b great an after the lil teaser we got at the end of this book I just know it's goin to b great why do I have to wait till March it's goin to kill me



I highly recommend this book it full of everything if u liked On Dublin Street series then u will luv this an if u havent read it seriously why not it's amazing xxx

[Milica's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sjajan početak novog serijala! Ako nemate velika očekivanja, nećete se razočarati.
Ovo je spora priča koja nas polako upoznaje sa svim likovima ovog novog serijala ali i lepim primorskim gradićem Hartwellom.
Dr. Jessica Huntington radi kao doktorka u ženskom zatvoru.Kad otkrije stara pisma u knjizi oseća se kao da duguje piscu da dostavi neposlata pisma. Ona iskoristi svoj odmor da poseti taj mali grad i odmah sklapa prijateljstva. Takođe privlači pažnju veoma zgodnog vlasnika bara.
Posle razvoda od neverne bivše žene, Cooper Lawson je fokusiran na ono što je jedino bitno; njegovu porodicu i bar. Cooper upoznaje Jessicu jednog kišnog jutra. Kako njihova međusobna privlačnost raste, a Jessica ostaje tvrdoglavo zatvorena, on počinje da shvata da će biti potrebno više od strasti da je ubedi da u životu postoji jedna prava stvar za koju se vredi boriti.

**
Nisam mogla da zamislim da autorka može da napravi boljeg lika nego što je Braden Carmichael, on je najseksipilniji muškarac ikad, ali i Cooper je neverovatan i seksi, zavolela sam ga odmah, način na koji su on i Jessica tako divni zajedno, ali uživala sam u svim ostalim likovima što me čini jako nestrpljivom čekajući narednu priču, a na kraju je i mali uvod u sledeću knjigu o drugom paru koji mi je dodato zagolicao maštu. Očekujem da će naredna knjiga biti još bolja od ove. :)

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[Lyndy Ann ♫ · Rating 5 out of 5]

******5 Hartwell stole my heart stars*****

I absolutely adored this story if I could I would give it 10 STARS, everything within these pages just worked for me I cannot remember feeling so passionate about a story and the characters while reading I could not put this down I had to get some answers to the many questions I had in my mind.

What is Jessica’s big secret?
What would happen with George and the letters?

I went into The One Real Thing only having read the blurb avoiding all reviews I do this with favourite authors so I did not know what to expect and OMG what a wonderful journey I went on with Jessica Huntington.

Jessica cannot stop thinking about Sarah’s letters so with her vacation time she decides to hand deliver the letters to George Beckwith in Hartwell herself but this does not go quite to plan. Jessica has always kept people at a distance and she cannot get over the welcome she gets from the locals on Hart’s boardwalk in Hartwell.

There is a legend in Hartwell that if you are destined for true love you will find it on the boardwalk, while out exploring said boardwalk the heavens suddenly open and running for shelter Jess runs smack into a hard, masculine body that belongs to Cooper Lawson the bar owner, there is an instant attraction between them but Jess does not want a fling as she is only there for three weeks.

Jess spends her time exploring Harwell making true friends with Bailey the Inn owner, Emery the shy owner of the book/coffee shop, even Vaughn Tremaine the selfish, coldhearted b*stard (Bailey’s words) and of course Cooper who shows her around the local sights. Jess has never felt so connected to a place and the new people in her life and she begins to rethink about her lonely life back home in Wilmington.

I am not going into what happens next as I think you as a reader would enjoy this wonderful story better not knowing and discovering this wonderful journey yourself.

I adored Jess and Coop together the chemistry and passion between these two is sizzling and all the heartfelt conversation they have broke my heart poor Jess.

What I also love about this is the secondary characters I cannot wait to get to know them all better in the future hopefully this series will go on FOREVER. I know the second book in the Hart’s Boardwalk series Every Little Thing is about Bailey Hartwell and Vaughn Tremaine this should be HOT, intense and interesting (see above for Bailey‘s opinion of Vaughn :)). I hope we get books for Emery Saunders, Cat Lawson, Dahlia and even Jack Devlin (he is a mystery).

Why did Jack do what he did to Cooper?????

I fell in love with the locals, with Hartwell what a MAGICAL place. I finished this last night and I cannot stop smiling when I think about The One Real Thing. I recommend this series to EVERYONE.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, TANK YOU Samantha Young for writing one of my favourite books for 2016 and of all time.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Boardwalk Stars





”If you’re destined for true love, you’ll find it on the boardwalk.



Love Letters. Do kids these days even know what a letter is? I need to teach my kids to write letters because it is so classic. The love letter story really grabbed my attention at the beginning. I wish this story lasted throughout the book instead of just the beginning and ending. This book is about finding yourself and starting over. I loved the setting of the boardwalk and the comfort of it. I felt like I was in another time and place while reading this book.

Jessica is a doctor, and she enjoys her job but she has no other attachments besides her job. She finds hidden love letters inside an old library book and is intrigued by the sad story. She knows she needs to get away, so she escapes to a small town in Delaware to find the man to whom the letters are written. She gets lost in this little town, and it a short amount of time, connects with the people like she has never felt before.

My Jessica:



My Cooper

The moment I met Cooper Lawson felt exactly like that hot shower after a very long, cold storm.




Of course, one of those people is the gorgeous bar owner, Cooper. Cooper is described as the BRF (blue-eyed, rugged, and flannel). He’s been through a rough marriage and worse divorce. He is a nice guy but just hasn’t settled down with anyone specific since he has been hurt so much in the past….until he meets Jessica. There is flirting and sexy grins and chemistry and feels and I just ate all of it up!!! I want to go to this little town in Delaware and just be there….preferably with Cooper.



Bartender, mechanic, carpenter…was there anything this man couldn’t do with his hands?

Stop thinking about his hands.

I cleared the lust out of my throat before I said, “You’re very handy, aren’t you?”

What?

Why would you mention his hands?

I flushed immediately when Cooper looked at me, eyes bright with amusement and not a little bit of flirtation. “You have no idea.”

And….mini orgasm.





This book picked me up and settled me down into this quaint little boardwalk town, and I fell in love with it and all the characters. I always enjoy Samantha Young’s writing style. It is easy and the perfect escape. I’m excited for Bailey and Vaughn’s book, and I really hope Emery gets a books too :).

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review.

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[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It’s never too late to change the road that you’re on.”

4.5 fated stars

OMG, I AM SO IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK! I love the story, I love the town, I love the characters, I love the romance, I love it all!

I was so excited when I saw that Sam Young was starting a new series, and this series opener is a delicious little read that I happily lost myself in. Set in the small seaside town of Hartwell, Young has created an almost magical setting where a group of unique characters work in the small stretch of businesses that make up Hart’s Boardwalk.

Dr Jessica Huntington has a devastating trauma in her past, one that changed her life forever and that has left her broken. She works in a women’s correctional facility - more out of a sense of obligation than enjoyment, and she lives a very private life, letting few people close to her and never opening up to anybody except her childhood best friend.

When Jessica comes across some unsent letters written by an inmate 40 years previously, she is so moved by their message that she sets out to track down the recipient and deliver them personally to him. And that brings her to the town of Hartwell. From almost the moment she arrives, Jessica feels a sense of peace that she has never experienced before, and as she is quickly enfolded into the small-town community, making fast friends with the eclectic inhabitants of the Boardwalk, she starts to reassess her life and what she wants from it - especially when she catches the eye of local bar owner, Cooper Lawson.

Sam Young has given me some of my all-time favourite book boyfriends, and Cooper Lawson is definitely added to that list! Rugged, gorgeous, alpha, sexy as all hell and a genuinely nice guy, Cooper has been indulging in mostly meaningless hook-ups since he divorced his wife after finding her in bed with his best friend. He’s not been interested in a relationship since then, but there’s something about the new arrival in town that sparks his interest.

From the very beginning, the chemistry between Jessica and Cooper is absolutely sizzling! It’s evident in every little glance, every innocent touch and every word spoken. Cooper acknowledges that there is something special about Jess, but she immediately puts up walls despite lusting madly after the man, but he is not one to be deterred.

“I know a fantastic kiss when I share one with someone.”
My insides went mushy at the compliment. I was glad he’d felt the zinging between us, too. No! I wasn’t. Damn it. I scowled. “It was pleasant enough.”
Cooper threw his head back in laughter. “Right. You keep telling yourself that, Doc … This isn’t over.”

Jessica Huntington was lying to herself. Cooper didn’t know why, but he was going to find out.
By then the doc would be in his bed.
Right where they both knew she belonged.

God, I love this relationship! Yes, there is initially some back and forth, but it’s really well done and doesn’t last too long with Cooper determined to get his girl, and they effortlessly fall into a relationship which is sweet, tender, fun and really freaking hot! They are honest about how they are feeling, and they just roll with it, and it was an absolute delight to read.

“I’m in this for the long haul, Doc. I was before you walked into my bar tonight, but now, after the best fucking sex of my life, after how wild that was, there’s no way I’m letting you walk out of here without me.”

“You’ve made your mark. You made your mark on me. No matter what happens between us now or in the future, I will never forget you. You’re inside me. Always will be.”

But Jess refuses to share her past with Cooper, therefore never fully gives herself over to the man that she is hopelessly falling for. Can they create something lasting with secrets between them? Or will it end up tearing them apart?

“Don’t leave me … I just found you.”

This is a beautifully written book. I was completely captivated from start to finish, and the pacing of the story was perfect. It’s written in dual POV, which I loved and I felt everything that the characters were going through – the good, the bad, the funny, the heartbreaking, and the downright steamy! I especially enjoyed Jess’ journey; I thought that her struggles were well written and understandable, and I loved the way she was brave enough to take the leap of faith and chase after her happiness (and Cooper… because DAMN that man is perfect!).

“Maybe it’s time to grow the fuck up and live the life I want.”

And Sam Young has done a wonderful job creating the town of Hartwell. I could picture it all in my head, I could feel the peaceful tranquillity of it, and I feel like I know the town’s inhabitants. They are a fantastic mix of sweet, funny, sexy and quirky (with the obligatory bad guys/girls as well) and there are lots of stories just begging to be told! There is a UST-filled potentially epic love story already set up, and a number of other characters introduced that I can’t wait to get to know more.

The only reason I didn’t give this a full five stars is because of the inevitable conflict. It wasn’t necessarily stupid, but I think Jessica took WAY too long to open up to Coop, and her walking away was heartbreaking and completely unecessary. It did its job of bringing some angst to the story and I thought the emotion was beautifully written, doing a great job of showing the strength of the connection between Jess and Coop, but I would have preferred it got handled differently.

But regardless, I loved this one. Such a fun, easy, gorgeously romantic read with a lot of light moments and lots of heart. I absolutely cannot wait to continue on with this series.

4.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Beatrice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always look forward whenever Samantha Young has an upcoming novel or series. Her romance novels are beautiful, compelling, romantic, passionate and emotionally stirring. The One Real Thing is a delightful start and I really enjoyed it.

Jessica Huntington is a doctor at a women's correctional facility. She's simple, down to earth, passionate, sweet and a bit lonely. She doesn't have a good relationship with her family and remained distant for years. Mostly, she keeps in touch with her best friend, Matt and his family, and with her surgeon boyfriend (they just hook up for sex and nothing more). One day at the facility, she found undelivered letters of a former prisoner, Sarah Randall. She's touched by these letters and wants to give it personally to George Beckwith in a small town called Hartwell. Upon her visit, she finds the place warm, welcoming, and peaceful. She met new people and became friends with them and also meeting a sexy, attractive bar owner, Cooper Lawson. He's hesitant to be in a relationship after her ex-wife cheated on him but he wants to pursue Jessica. Her simplicity and mysteriousness challenged him and he's determined to break down her walls. Whatever happens, he'll not give up on her.

The story and the romance are really good. Jessica and Cooper had a wonderful character and relationship development as they work out on their personal issues. I love they shared a steamy and passionate romance. I find it sexy and heartpounding. I guess the conflict in this book isn't as heavy as I have expected and I'm a bit frustrated on Jessica towards the near end.

I'm looking forward to read the next book because Bailey Hartwell and Vaughn Tremaine's story intrigued me with their heated conversations and it builds up a lot of sexual tension.

[~Stéphanie~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stand-alone
HEA: Yes
Cheating: No
Trigger: No

I fell in love with one of the most beautiful story, and not just a love story, nope the entire book.


Samantha Young is as usual a wonderful storyteller. She has the incredible ability to make you crave for more. I coudln't have enough of what is happening on the boardwalk. I couldn't get enough of Cooper and Jessica.

I've read most of Samantha's on Dublin streets series and like most I was enthralled by Braden but trust me when I say there are many crushes waiting for you in Hartwell. There are so much potential with this little town, I'm already excited to know we have books to come for the next few years - Bailey and Vaughn of course and Emery are obvious but I want books for Ollie, Liv and Riley too. Dare I say I want Jake more than anything?

But back to Jessica and Cooper.

To say love was not easy with these two is an understatement. Jessica is a busy doctor who had build walls around her heart and around herself. She has no real friends expect for Matthew, her childhood friend. When she find the letters, she is deeply touched. Little she knows that the journey to Hartwell is going to change her life.

Jessica was a character I clicked immediately with. She is sweet, tough and has always been focus on her work. It was a delight to see her let loose a bit and enjoy an easy life.

Cooper, owner of a bar is an upset man. He has been betrayed by his ex-wife but most importantly by his best friend. That leaves him in a position where love has no real room but he quickly change his mind when a small tingle got his attention.

The One Real Thing is a delicious slow burn. Samantha gives us all the ingredients to be captivated by every little aspect of her book. And it works perfectly well. Sweet, sexy, endearing I don't have enough qualifying words to say how this is so worth it. The friendship formed feel real, it could happen to you and that's the beauty of this book.
I have to wait until March 2017 to get the second book but I would give anything to have a sneak peek soon.

~Arc provided in exchange of an honest review ~

[Ⓐlleskelle - That ranting lady ッ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review to follow...

Arc provided by the publisher in exchange for a review.
More reviews and book talk at :

You can find me here too ☞

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★½
The One Real Thing is the first installment in Samantha Young's adult contemporary romance series titled Hart's Boardwalk. This story features likable characters with tortured pasts, the beauty of giving ourselves permission to start over, and a sensitive perspective of caring for other human beings who have made mistakes. The One Real Thing was pleasantly enjoyable but I was hopeful there would be more attention and substance given to the "found letters" component of the story. Overall though, I liked this book and will plan to continue the series.

My favorite quote:
"Sometimes life just doesn't work out the way you hoped and no matter what age you are there comes a time to change it."

Samantha Young's Hart's Boardwalk series includes the following installments as of October 2016:
#1-The One Real Thing
#2-Every Little Thing

[Izy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating~ 3.5- 4 stars

“If you’re destined for true love, you’ll find it on the boardwalk…” ~Hartwell legend.

Dr. Jessica Huntington while working on her shift as a prison doctor finds letters love letters addressed to the man of the writer’s affections, she feels a connection to the writer. Her heartbreak and story bring out a flood of emotion in Jessica.With her upcoming vacation and her best friend unavailability, she decides to go to Hartwell the town which was once home to the writer of the letters.

Cooper Lawson, bar owner and according to some panty melter extraordinaire. After his divorce and the betrayal of two people he loved and thought he could always trust, Cooper has stayed far away from forming relationships. He is instead focusing on his bar and his family. All of this of course changes when he meets a tourist he finds completely fascinating.

Jessica was a very empathic and caring person not just because she was a doctor but it was more of a innate quality of hers. Jessica is used to keeping everyone from getting too close which has never been a problem before until she meets Cooper and the citizens of Hartwell. Jessica’s vacation brings her not only peace but also makes her realise how empty her life had been until now. Cooper is extremely intrigued by not only Jessica’s personality but her intelligence and her self confidence. I really enjoyed how he went around trying to convince Jessica to give them a shot.

The moment I met Cooper Lawson felt exactly like that hot shower after a very long, cold storm. ~ Jessica

Jessica and Cooper were cute together. Attracted to each other from the first moment the met, their relationship progressed slowly. They felt a connection to each other from the moment they laid eyes on each other on a rainy evening. Their relationship was at times sweet and other times passionate. The only point of contention between the two was Jessica’s inability to confide in Cooper about her family and her past. Drawn to Cooper as she is, Jessica has to decided whether or not to take a chance to open up to him, this guy who has effortlessly stolen her heart.

It felt like like fate had bought me there in the guise of Sarah’s letters.
And I’d fallen in love on the boardwalk. ~Jessica.

Quibbles: I just thought jessica’s past/her secret could have been done better.

The writing was engaging as was the plot and the various threads coming together. I think it was a pretty good start to the new series and I’ll definitely be coming back for more.

I have a love/hate realtionship with the town and it’s people in small town romances but Hartwell as with Jessica won me over. I loved the town, and to quote Jessica it was idyllic. I loved all the characters that we got introduced to, the secondary characters who I hope will get their own books had such great personalities. I really want Emery to get a book, she was one of the characters that intrigued me the most with her shyness and love for books. I can’t wait to read Vaughan and Bailey’s story which comes out next year. Anyone who likes small town romances and likes Jill Shalvis series’s would really enjoy this one!

ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Angie - Angie's Dreamy Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

*** 3.5 stars ***

I have so much to say about this book. It was good!! I really liked it. And also, there is so much potential in this new series. Full review coming soon.

[Julia's Book Haven · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It's one of those books that just gives you a warm fuzzy feeling the whole time you're reading it. Jessica was such a deep and interesting character and Cooper really was 'the perfect guy' I found myself wishing he would jump off the pages and become real :)

Really excited about this series and I hope the rest are as good as this one.