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Star Lake #1
When Love Returns
Presley Hays and Brandon Scott were best friends in High School until Morgan entered their town and stole Brandon’s heart. Devastated, Presley takes a scholarship to Le Cordon Bleu, but five years later, she is back in Star Lake after a tough breakup. Brandon thought he’d never return to Star Lake after Morgan left him and his daughter Joy, but when his father needs help, he returns home and finds more than he bargained for. Can Presley and Brandon forget past hurts or will their stubborn natures keep them apart forever?
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2017
91 people are currently reading
450 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 18, 2017
Romance, Clean
Presley and Brandon's story was a lovely read, a nice distraction for the day. They had both crushed on each other in High School, and not told the other about it. After they both get disappointed by love, they are back home she for good, he for a visit.
Lovely fall, beautiful chemistry between them. Presley does what is best for her and her heart both by staying and going to him. It came together for a beautiful HEA, and Joy was a cute mix. While Brandon's career and future aren't settled, the hope from being with the ones you love and small town courage give a beautiful HEA to this novel. I would round higher, but a few little things had me go for the 3.5 and round down. Still a lovely read, nice escape, and lovely chemistry.
I received a copy from the author in exchange as a subscription to an email list. This in no way influenced my review.
Presley and Brandon's story was a lovely read, a nice distraction for the day. They had both crushed on each other in High School, and not told the other about it. After they both get disappointed by love, they are back home she for good, he for a visit.
Lovely fall, beautiful chemistry between them. Presley does what is best for her and her heart both by staying and going to him. It came together for a beautiful HEA, and Joy was a cute mix. While Brandon's career and future aren't settled, the hope from being with the ones you love and small town courage give a beautiful HEA to this novel. I would round higher, but a few little things had me go for the 3.5 and round down. Still a lovely read, nice escape, and lovely chemistry.
I received a copy from the author in exchange as a subscription to an email list. This in no way influenced my review.
August 15, 2017
When Love Returns is the second book I have read by this author. I was provided an ecopy of the book, before publishing, for review purposes. The final version may contain slight differences.
I love Christmas books. There is just something magical about the Christmas season that makes anything possible. Even a second chance love that never had the chance to bloom the first time.
I adore this story so much. First, if you put children and Christmas in the mix you have my attention. Second add in first love coming back and you have guaranteed I will read your book. Who doesn't remember their first love? Who has never wondered, what if things were different and we met again? I will be honest and admit I clearly remember him, (I can still recall exactly what he was wearing and doing the first time I saw him). I do dream about a second chance with him. So you have my attention, you have your book in my hands. This better be good because I am not about shattered dreams when thinking about my first love or Christmas.
I had no need to worry. The story grabbed me from the start. I love the majority of characters. Joy is adorable! I really enjoyed having the custodial parent being the dad. Usually it is a single mom I am reading about. It was a nice change for me. It was also a realistic one. I know quite a number of Dad's in real life who have stepped up. I also enjoyed the fact that there were minor stories going on around them that weren't romantic set ups for future books. Yes that was in there, too, but there were ordinary things going on that were a part of the story. Just like life. People were flawed. There were choices to make. There were misunderstandings and hurts to work out. And there was Joy. Little Joy, who you just want to have the best Christmas and happiest life. Will she get either?
The author writes clean books with a leaning towards Christianity. This book did not overwhelm you with it. It was just a sweet, clean romance. It is a quick read. If you are reading it during the holiday season, this is perfect for relaxing with after a crazy, busy day. You don't have to wait for the Christmas season, though, to enjoy this story. The magic of Christmas is something the world needs on any given day. We all need the hope, the love and the kindness that has represented the Christmas season for decades. The commercialism, eh, not so much. If you need a little sugar in your day to sweeten it, pick up this book.
I love Christmas books. There is just something magical about the Christmas season that makes anything possible. Even a second chance love that never had the chance to bloom the first time.
I adore this story so much. First, if you put children and Christmas in the mix you have my attention. Second add in first love coming back and you have guaranteed I will read your book. Who doesn't remember their first love? Who has never wondered, what if things were different and we met again? I will be honest and admit I clearly remember him, (I can still recall exactly what he was wearing and doing the first time I saw him). I do dream about a second chance with him. So you have my attention, you have your book in my hands. This better be good because I am not about shattered dreams when thinking about my first love or Christmas.
I had no need to worry. The story grabbed me from the start. I love the majority of characters. Joy is adorable! I really enjoyed having the custodial parent being the dad. Usually it is a single mom I am reading about. It was a nice change for me. It was also a realistic one. I know quite a number of Dad's in real life who have stepped up. I also enjoyed the fact that there were minor stories going on around them that weren't romantic set ups for future books. Yes that was in there, too, but there were ordinary things going on that were a part of the story. Just like life. People were flawed. There were choices to make. There were misunderstandings and hurts to work out. And there was Joy. Little Joy, who you just want to have the best Christmas and happiest life. Will she get either?
The author writes clean books with a leaning towards Christianity. This book did not overwhelm you with it. It was just a sweet, clean romance. It is a quick read. If you are reading it during the holiday season, this is perfect for relaxing with after a crazy, busy day. You don't have to wait for the Christmas season, though, to enjoy this story. The magic of Christmas is something the world needs on any given day. We all need the hope, the love and the kindness that has represented the Christmas season for decades. The commercialism, eh, not so much. If you need a little sugar in your day to sweeten it, pick up this book.
August 7, 2017
When Love Returns by Lorana Hoopes is a contemporary Christian romance which I absolutely loved. It is the first book in the Star Lake series and I cannot wait for the rest.
It's really exciting to discover a new author. Lorana Hoopes writes in such a wonderful and engaging manner that leaves the reader wanting more. Her chapters alternate between the points of view of her two lead characters, enabling the reader to become intimately acquainted with them both. Lorana Hoopes employs the technique of repetition, as the first meeting of the characters is shown from both viewpoints, revealing to the reader that both characters are singing from the same hymn sheet, revealing their true hearts.
Memories are important - both having them and making them. Time is precious. Once it is spent, you cannot get it back.
The novel shows the importance of having the correct priorities. "I didn't want to lose my family to money." The love of money and power can lure us away from what is really important - and that is family.
Family takes centre stage in the novel. A crisis draws scattered family back to the heart. There are some wonderful relationships. None more beautiful than those of five year old Joy. Her love, loyalty and quest for the simple things in life is infectious. "Her exuberance and joy is contagious." She just took up residence in my heart.
Prayer is vital. We need to pray without ceasing and at all times. "I hand it over to the Lord in prayer."
There is a wonderful warm and welcoming atmosphere to the novel which envelopes the reader from the start. I loved the inclusion of the cat as a minor character. I could totally relate to this sentiment. "My cat... really is the perfect man - considerate, always happy to see me and shares my bed without taking it over."
Life can be full of regrets. Regrets will lock us into the past. We need to focus on today and move forwards into the future.
People bond around food. The inclusion of a bakery in the novel certainly gets the reader's taste buds going.
When Love Returns was a perfectly delightful read. I now want to read more by Lorana Hoopes. Give yourself a treat today - and discover Lorana Hoopes writings for yourself.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
It's really exciting to discover a new author. Lorana Hoopes writes in such a wonderful and engaging manner that leaves the reader wanting more. Her chapters alternate between the points of view of her two lead characters, enabling the reader to become intimately acquainted with them both. Lorana Hoopes employs the technique of repetition, as the first meeting of the characters is shown from both viewpoints, revealing to the reader that both characters are singing from the same hymn sheet, revealing their true hearts.
Memories are important - both having them and making them. Time is precious. Once it is spent, you cannot get it back.
The novel shows the importance of having the correct priorities. "I didn't want to lose my family to money." The love of money and power can lure us away from what is really important - and that is family.
Family takes centre stage in the novel. A crisis draws scattered family back to the heart. There are some wonderful relationships. None more beautiful than those of five year old Joy. Her love, loyalty and quest for the simple things in life is infectious. "Her exuberance and joy is contagious." She just took up residence in my heart.
Prayer is vital. We need to pray without ceasing and at all times. "I hand it over to the Lord in prayer."
There is a wonderful warm and welcoming atmosphere to the novel which envelopes the reader from the start. I loved the inclusion of the cat as a minor character. I could totally relate to this sentiment. "My cat... really is the perfect man - considerate, always happy to see me and shares my bed without taking it over."
Life can be full of regrets. Regrets will lock us into the past. We need to focus on today and move forwards into the future.
People bond around food. The inclusion of a bakery in the novel certainly gets the reader's taste buds going.
When Love Returns was a perfectly delightful read. I now want to read more by Lorana Hoopes. Give yourself a treat today - and discover Lorana Hoopes writings for yourself.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
August 22, 2019
Presley and Brandon were high school best friends. Then life happens and they go there separate ways. Brandon has another swoop in and steals his heart. So Presley goes to the Le Cordon Bleu thanks to a scholarship.
Five years have passed and they both end up back home in little Star Lake. Presley after time in Paris comes home with a broken heart and has opened up a bakery. Brandon is back to help the family out. His father took a serious fall. They both have baggage. Brandon has a 5 year old daughter. Can they find love together again?
There many twists and turns in this story. It's sweet, it's quirky characters make it a place I would love to visit. Fall in love with Brandon and Presley and Star Lake. Another wonderful story by the talented Lorana Hoopes.
Five years have passed and they both end up back home in little Star Lake. Presley after time in Paris comes home with a broken heart and has opened up a bakery. Brandon is back to help the family out. His father took a serious fall. They both have baggage. Brandon has a 5 year old daughter. Can they find love together again?
There many twists and turns in this story. It's sweet, it's quirky characters make it a place I would love to visit. Fall in love with Brandon and Presley and Star Lake. Another wonderful story by the talented Lorana Hoopes.
December 4, 2020
*This is a spoil free review*
Rating: 3.5 stars
Heat level: minimal to nonexistent (few kisses)
Profanity: zero
I will say this is the first book I’ve read by this author, so maybe I haven’t found the best of her work, but without further ado....
So while I thought this was a sweet story, it was full of unrealistic actions and outcomes. I Liked the Characters themselves and I thought Joy was adorable, however, I did find her to be too wise beyond her years— it’s almost like an adult was orchestrating the content.
I thought it was a cute and fluffy story but I can’t say I’d recommend it too many friends. If you’re looking for a mindless, innocent read without any trashy sex scenes then this is for you. 🙌👍
Rating: 3.5 stars
Heat level: minimal to nonexistent (few kisses)
Profanity: zero
I will say this is the first book I’ve read by this author, so maybe I haven’t found the best of her work, but without further ado....
So while I thought this was a sweet story, it was full of unrealistic actions and outcomes. I Liked the Characters themselves and I thought Joy was adorable, however, I did find her to be too wise beyond her years— it’s almost like an adult was orchestrating the content.
I thought it was a cute and fluffy story but I can’t say I’d recommend it too many friends. If you’re looking for a mindless, innocent read without any trashy sex scenes then this is for you. 🙌👍
October 14, 2018
Two people that used to love each other return to their hometown. Presley with a broken heart from a Paris love. Brandon with a broken relationship and a daughter to raise on his own. Will they be able to find love again?
I loved the characters in the book, especially Joy, who is a very wise little girl for her age. Star Lake came to life for me as I felt the heartache of the struggles of the main characters. The story was about relationships, doing the right thing for family and most of all-Love.
Can't wait to read the next installment of the Start Lake series. I was provided with a copy by the author and voluntarily chose to review it.
I loved the characters in the book, especially Joy, who is a very wise little girl for her age. Star Lake came to life for me as I felt the heartache of the struggles of the main characters. The story was about relationships, doing the right thing for family and most of all-Love.
Can't wait to read the next installment of the Start Lake series. I was provided with a copy by the author and voluntarily chose to review it.
August 4, 2017
I enjoyed When Love Returns. It's a very sweet second chance story. Brandon and Presley were best friends in high school. Both wanting to be more than friends but too afraid to tell the other how they feel. The chance passes them by. Brandon and Presley's lives lead them in different directions. Now five years later they both end up back in Star Lake. Given a second chance they both have to decide if they'll make the leap. After reading When Love Returns I wonder if Mrs. Hoopes is a Gilmore Girls fan. I look forward to reading more in this series.
March 18, 2018
When Love Returns is a heart-warming story from an exceptionally talented writer. I absolutely loved this romance between Brandon and Presley. I fell in love with Brandon's little girl, Joy. The book has a good story line, the characters are wonderful and it's a perfect setting. This is the first book I've read from this author and I'm looking forward to reading more from her. I highly recommend.
November 18, 2018
I am so in love with this book! The characters, every single one of them contributed to the story. I love all of them and their quirkiness. This romance captured me from the beginning, you could just feel everything the characters were feeling. This book is the kind of book you will think on for days. I’m already missing the characters and the town as if I was apart of it. You will definitely love this story!
August 12, 2022
Once I started to read this book it was hard to lay it down. Anyone who enjoys a sweet clean read will enjoy this one.
After I read the eBook I later listened to the audiobook on You Tube. I was just as good the second time! The story still wonderful with the addition of good narration that brought it all to life.
After I read the eBook I later listened to the audiobook on You Tube. I was just as good the second time! The story still wonderful with the addition of good narration that brought it all to life.
January 16, 2018
This Star Lake novel is a second chance love story that shows what part of life is really important--relationships both with God and each other. Out of the mouth of babes comes the truth of what a mother should be, one who loves and spends time with her child.
August 17, 2019
I had a free copy of this book, but this is my honest opinion. I enjoyed reading this book. Lorana does a good job with the story line and the character development. It was great to see the childhood friends reunite later in life.
July 19, 2022
Cute Small Town Romance
I liked the characters and their quirky friends and family members. I also liked that the focus was on friendship and love rather than sex and lust. Some of the characters were too cliche (Morgan) but there are actual people like her in the world.
I liked the characters and their quirky friends and family members. I also liked that the focus was on friendship and love rather than sex and lust. Some of the characters were too cliche (Morgan) but there are actual people like her in the world.
July 20, 2022
Lovely
I really enjoyed the small town closeness and caring. Could've boxed Brandon's ears a number of times. So self absorbed! Anyway, after much heart-ache, it all gets sorted out in the end. Loved Joy, she was a really wise character. A good read.
I really enjoyed the small town closeness and caring. Could've boxed Brandon's ears a number of times. So self absorbed! Anyway, after much heart-ache, it all gets sorted out in the end. Loved Joy, she was a really wise character. A good read.
December 21, 2017
Quick read, nice story for the holidays. Got to say, Love Joy so much!
February 13, 2018
Awesome book
When Love Returns is a beautifully written inspirational romance. The book has a well crafted plot and characters. I highly recommend this book
When Love Returns is a beautifully written inspirational romance. The book has a well crafted plot and characters. I highly recommend this book
May 1, 2019
A fun story.
This is a fun story about second chances. I enjoyed the characters in this small town. This is a clean, sweet romance.
This is a fun story about second chances. I enjoyed the characters in this small town. This is a clean, sweet romance.
April 26, 2020
Sweet romance
Once I started to read this book it was hard to lay it down. Anyone who enjoys a sweet clean read will enjoy this one.
Once I started to read this book it was hard to lay it down. Anyone who enjoys a sweet clean read will enjoy this one.
July 3, 2020
Review of When Love Returns
This was a very good book and I will recommend her books to anyone who loves romance novels. She keeps you involved from page one until the end.
This was a very good book and I will recommend her books to anyone who loves romance novels. She keeps you involved from page one until the end.
September 30, 2021
Won over by adorable Joy and all the Gilmore Girls feels!
September 4, 2022
A beautiful book
January 2, 2026
I enjoyed Presley and Brandon’s story, especially when they relied on their faith.
May 1, 2019
Brandon Scott and Ashley Hayes had been good friends in high school. They dated and everyone figured they would get married and stay in Star Lake. Along comes Morgan and beautiful and brassy blonde that steals the heart of Brandon. Presley leaves town and becomes a chef. Brandon and Morgan are divorced. Brandon vows never to return to star lake. Then his dad has an accident and needs Brandon to help him with his work.
Brandon brings his daughter Joy back to Star Lake. He and Presley began to become acquainted again. The path is not smooth. Will Brandon and Presley ever escape their own stubbornness and form a relationship, or will one or both of them leave town again?
Read the story to see what happens. A fun, well written book.
Brandon brings his daughter Joy back to Star Lake. He and Presley began to become acquainted again. The path is not smooth. Will Brandon and Presley ever escape their own stubbornness and form a relationship, or will one or both of them leave town again?
Read the story to see what happens. A fun, well written book.
August 4, 2017
I enjoyed When Love Returns. It's a very sweet second chance story. Brandon and Presley were best friends in high school. Both wanting to be more than friends but too afraid to tell the other how they feel. The chance passes them by. Brandon and Presley's lives lead them in different directions. Now five years later they both end up back in Star Lake. Given a second chance they both have to decide if they'll make the leap. After reading When Love Returns I wonder if Mrs. Hoopes is a Gilmore Girls fan. I look forward to reading more in this series.
August 15, 2017
I received a free ARC of this book and am voluntarily writing an honest review.
There is something about a second chance love story that makes me feel warm and fuzzy. This book certainly made me feel this way! Presley and Brandon were best friends in High School but went their separate ways. Both move away and move on but find themselves back in their hometown years later. Both are hurt but realize this may be their second chance at romance. The author was able to create complex characters and make the storyline flow easily. I am looking forward to more in this series!
There is something about a second chance love story that makes me feel warm and fuzzy. This book certainly made me feel this way! Presley and Brandon were best friends in High School but went their separate ways. Both move away and move on but find themselves back in their hometown years later. Both are hurt but realize this may be their second chance at romance. The author was able to create complex characters and make the storyline flow easily. I am looking forward to more in this series!
September 18, 2017
Love wins
I was gifted this book by the author for an honest review. Lorana Hoopes is one of my favorite authors who writes clean romance with happy endings. What I like most is that she has strong Christian characters in her books who aren't afraid to let their faith show when faced with heartache. I highly recommend this book as well as any other books by this wonderful author and plan on reading more of her books.
I was gifted this book by the author for an honest review. Lorana Hoopes is one of my favorite authors who writes clean romance with happy endings. What I like most is that she has strong Christian characters in her books who aren't afraid to let their faith show when faced with heartache. I highly recommend this book as well as any other books by this wonderful author and plan on reading more of her books.
July 31, 2017
5 Stars
Warm Fuzzy Romance – Sweet and Clean
I really enjoyed this story. I can see plenty of room for the rest of the series to explore the cast of characters in this story. The plot line is very good and believable. The characters all have depth and true emotion. This author always writes a quality story, and I plan on reading them all!
Warm Fuzzy Romance – Sweet and Clean
I really enjoyed this story. I can see plenty of room for the rest of the series to explore the cast of characters in this story. The plot line is very good and believable. The characters all have depth and true emotion. This author always writes a quality story, and I plan on reading them all!
November 13, 2017
Presley and Brandon were best friends and secretly loved each other. Enter Morgan - ugh. A second chance but really a first chance at love between friends. Loved how Brandon's daughter bonds with Presley. A sweet romance. Beautiful cover.
August 1, 2017
Presley and Brandon have a second chance at love. Will he be more than her friend this time? Ms. Hoopes always draws you into the story and makes you feel like you are there. Can't wait to read more!
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July 31, 2017It's finally finished and I am so excited for you guys to join me in Star Lake.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews