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City Limits #3
Smoke and Mirrors
A standalone, second chance romance between a former Air Force firefighter and the love he left behind.
My best laid plans had backfired. I'd thought by putting miles between myself and my first love that she'd be free to live whatever life she'd wanted, but when I came back from serving my country and Faith was raising her little girl alone, it was time to make new plans.In eight years, not a single day had passed when she wasn't on my mind, and not a night went by when I didn't miss her. She was fierce and stunning and didn't need a man in her life, but when the time came--and she wanted one--the line would start behind me.
Like smoke, I'd let her slip through my fingers once, but I'd never forgive the man in the mirror if I let it happen again. She was the fire inside me that would never burn out.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2018
81 people are currently reading
314 people want to read
About the author
M. Mabie
24 books1,596 followersM. Mabie lives in Illinois with her husband. She writes unconventional love stories and tries to embody "real-life romance."
She cares about politics, but will not discuss them in public. She uses the same fork at every meal, watches Wayne's World while cleaning, and lets her dog sleep on her head. She has always been a writer. In fact, she was born with a pen in her hand, which almost never happens. Almost.
M. Mabie usually doesn't speak in third-person. She promises.
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She cares about politics, but will not discuss them in public. She uses the same fork at every meal, watches Wayne's World while cleaning, and lets her dog sleep on her head. She has always been a writer. In fact, she was born with a pen in her hand, which almost never happens. Almost.
M. Mabie usually doesn't speak in third-person. She promises.
Signup for my mailing list: http://www.mmabie.com/subscribe
Follow me on BOOKBUB:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/m-mabie
Like me on Facebook:
http://www.Facebook.com/AuthorMMabie
Follow me on Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/AuthorMMabie
Follow my Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/M.-Mabie/e/B00J...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
January 31, 2018
4.25 Stars
A solid story love story with a good twist. The author did an extraordinary job with Delaney, the heroine's little girl!
A solid story love story with a good twist. The author did an extraordinary job with Delaney, the heroine's little girl!
January 25, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
Mrs. Downing, now isn’t a good time to flirt with me. They’re going to think you have a head injury.
He licked his fork clean and then stuck the plastic handle in the front pocket of his denim overalls. He patted the disposable silverware and said to me, “I’ll need this for dessert.”
I’ve got baggage. Luggage, really. Tons of it.
I sent them a pic of you cleaning out Darrell’s gutters… Oh, come on. You took your shirt off twenty feet away from my window. Girl code mandates sending a picture to my best friends.
Son, the inside of this house is like its heart, and it’s beautiful. But the front porch is the face and it looks like a divorcee who needs night cream.
“I think she’s poopin’. She’s been in the bathroom for a long time.” There was some rustling around on the other end, and then she bellowed. “Mom, are you still poopin’? Aaron’s on the phone… I’ll talk to you until she’s done. Sometimes it takes a while.” Again she shouted at her mother. “Do you need some toilet paper?”
It’s funny how a moment can be so big that you worry it won’t fit in your heart, but then you feel your insides swell and it finds a place.
My Review:
Smoke and Mirrors was a comfortable, pleasant, and easy read populated with adorable, endearing, quirky, and lovable characters. The premise was realistic, easy to follow, and relevant while the characters were common, small-town, everyday working-class people, who were uncommonly good and exceptionally appealing. I relished this sweet couple and Ms. Mabie’s engaging dual POV narrative from start to finish. Add in a precocious, feisty, and precious four-year-old then blend it all together with wit, cunning insights, smirk-inducing levity, a sweet and steamy love story, and clever writing, and you have a delightful and entertaining book to cherish and enjoy. I didn’t notice how ingenious the title was until I made the connection of Aaron, the male protagonist, being a fireman. A kind, thoughtful, sweet, and sexy fireman. I fell in love with him right away and he just kept getting better and better. I hope Ms. Mabie continues this charming and breezy series in perpetuity; after all, she has an entire town to pick and choose from.
Mrs. Downing, now isn’t a good time to flirt with me. They’re going to think you have a head injury.
He licked his fork clean and then stuck the plastic handle in the front pocket of his denim overalls. He patted the disposable silverware and said to me, “I’ll need this for dessert.”
I’ve got baggage. Luggage, really. Tons of it.
I sent them a pic of you cleaning out Darrell’s gutters… Oh, come on. You took your shirt off twenty feet away from my window. Girl code mandates sending a picture to my best friends.
Son, the inside of this house is like its heart, and it’s beautiful. But the front porch is the face and it looks like a divorcee who needs night cream.
“I think she’s poopin’. She’s been in the bathroom for a long time.” There was some rustling around on the other end, and then she bellowed. “Mom, are you still poopin’? Aaron’s on the phone… I’ll talk to you until she’s done. Sometimes it takes a while.” Again she shouted at her mother. “Do you need some toilet paper?”
It’s funny how a moment can be so big that you worry it won’t fit in your heart, but then you feel your insides swell and it finds a place.
My Review:
Smoke and Mirrors was a comfortable, pleasant, and easy read populated with adorable, endearing, quirky, and lovable characters. The premise was realistic, easy to follow, and relevant while the characters were common, small-town, everyday working-class people, who were uncommonly good and exceptionally appealing. I relished this sweet couple and Ms. Mabie’s engaging dual POV narrative from start to finish. Add in a precocious, feisty, and precious four-year-old then blend it all together with wit, cunning insights, smirk-inducing levity, a sweet and steamy love story, and clever writing, and you have a delightful and entertaining book to cherish and enjoy. I didn’t notice how ingenious the title was until I made the connection of Aaron, the male protagonist, being a fireman. A kind, thoughtful, sweet, and sexy fireman. I fell in love with him right away and he just kept getting better and better. I hope Ms. Mabie continues this charming and breezy series in perpetuity; after all, she has an entire town to pick and choose from.
January 26, 2018
Faith and Aaron were friends growing up. They had feelings for each other but never crossed that line that would make them more than friends. Aaron left for basic training leaving Faith behind and she moved on with her life, dating and getting pregnant. Her boyfriend left making her a single mom and Aaron moved back to town. He has watched as Faith raises her daughter on her own, waiting for the chance to finally make her his.
What I loved so much about this book was the way Aaron loved Faith, even when she didn't know it. He was devoted to her before she was actually ever his. To me, this is what made it a perfect romance. He loved her so much and was willing to do anything to make her happy, even if she didn't know. I loved his devotion to her and her daughter. The scenes between Aaron and Delaney were super sweet. I loved the build up with the romance, the banter between Faith and her friends, the steamy scenes, and that epilogue was perfection! This was a really fantastic second chance romance and I can't wait to read more by this author.
What I loved so much about this book was the way Aaron loved Faith, even when she didn't know it. He was devoted to her before she was actually ever his. To me, this is what made it a perfect romance. He loved her so much and was willing to do anything to make her happy, even if she didn't know. I loved his devotion to her and her daughter. The scenes between Aaron and Delaney were super sweet. I loved the build up with the romance, the banter between Faith and her friends, the steamy scenes, and that epilogue was perfection! This was a really fantastic second chance romance and I can't wait to read more by this author.
February 11, 2018
Random Ramblings:
•Delaney was cute…and vicious!
•What is the difference between fantasies and daydreams?
•He went 4 years without sex because he thought no woman would measure up to the h!
•I don’t get why they don’t talk
•I’m getting a little bored
•I couldn’t read past chapter 13. I love slow burns but this was too slow and very frustrating cos there was literally no damn reason why they didn’t get together earlier
•Delaney was cute…and vicious!
•What is the difference between fantasies and daydreams?
•He went 4 years without sex because he thought no woman would measure up to the h!
•I don’t get why they don’t talk
•I’m getting a little bored
•I couldn’t read past chapter 13. I love slow burns but this was too slow and very frustrating cos there was literally no damn reason why they didn’t get together earlier
January 25, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Review by Lisa Kane
Aaron Goodman is a good guy. He left town years ago for the Air Force is back. He’s been back for the last four years. He makes a decent living as a fire fighter; he does odd jobs for just about the whole town and...he regrets every day how he left the love of his life behind.
Faith Simpson has a hard life. She’s a single parent to her four-year-old daughter, Delaney. Delaney’s father took off when she was born and Faith hasn’t seen him since. But he sends his support payment every month and that’s all she needs from him. Faith works at the family diner and then tends bar at night. Any available moment she can, she spends with her daughter.
Living in a small town means Aaron and Faith run into each other all the time. Well, Aaron may conjure up reasons to see Faith. The diner and the bar are part of his stomping grounds. He just sits there quietly, watching, hoping that Faith will say more than a few words to him.
It’s surprising what little human contact a man can survive on. For four years, I’d had less than none. Actually, none would have been better; I had a deficit.
The way Faith sees it, she didn’t wait for Aaron like she said she would. She’s got more baggage than she thinks any man would want.
Every once in a while, I’d fool myself into thinking something was still there between us.
A dim spark.
A phantom sensation.
A faded hope.
It’s hard not to get frustrated with these two. Both have made mistakes and yet they are both willing to move past them. Of course, they would first have to admit that they wanted each other back, and that just hasn’t happened.
Faith thinks Aaron would be settling if they got back together.
I wouldn’t be someone’s option.
Someone’s maybe someday.
Don’t be thinking that if they just broke down and admitted their feelings that things are going to smoothly fall into place.
Surprise! And not such a pleasant surprise after all.
What else had he lied about? Had it all been smoke and mirrors? What was real?
Smoke and Mirrors may just be my favorite of this series. I loved the characters, even if they drove me nuts!
“I didn’t wait for you, Aaron.”
His brows rose. “But I can wait for you.”
Review by Lisa Kane
Aaron Goodman is a good guy. He left town years ago for the Air Force is back. He’s been back for the last four years. He makes a decent living as a fire fighter; he does odd jobs for just about the whole town and...he regrets every day how he left the love of his life behind.
Faith Simpson has a hard life. She’s a single parent to her four-year-old daughter, Delaney. Delaney’s father took off when she was born and Faith hasn’t seen him since. But he sends his support payment every month and that’s all she needs from him. Faith works at the family diner and then tends bar at night. Any available moment she can, she spends with her daughter.
Living in a small town means Aaron and Faith run into each other all the time. Well, Aaron may conjure up reasons to see Faith. The diner and the bar are part of his stomping grounds. He just sits there quietly, watching, hoping that Faith will say more than a few words to him.
It’s surprising what little human contact a man can survive on. For four years, I’d had less than none. Actually, none would have been better; I had a deficit.
The way Faith sees it, she didn’t wait for Aaron like she said she would. She’s got more baggage than she thinks any man would want.
Every once in a while, I’d fool myself into thinking something was still there between us.
A dim spark.
A phantom sensation.
A faded hope.
It’s hard not to get frustrated with these two. Both have made mistakes and yet they are both willing to move past them. Of course, they would first have to admit that they wanted each other back, and that just hasn’t happened.
Faith thinks Aaron would be settling if they got back together.
I wouldn’t be someone’s option.
Someone’s maybe someday.
Don’t be thinking that if they just broke down and admitted their feelings that things are going to smoothly fall into place.
Surprise! And not such a pleasant surprise after all.
What else had he lied about? Had it all been smoke and mirrors? What was real?
Smoke and Mirrors may just be my favorite of this series. I loved the characters, even if they drove me nuts!
“I didn’t wait for you, Aaron.”
His brows rose. “But I can wait for you.”
January 26, 2018
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
All consuming, adorable and endearing second chance romance by M. Mabie. Smoke and Mirrors held my heart and had me fully entranced from the beginning until the end. A story, written by a talented author, that will leave you wanting more from the City Limits series.
“I wouldn’t be someone’s option. Someone’s maybe someday.”
A tale of two souls reconnecting and a relationship that’s well deserved when given the effort. Smoke and Mirrors plays on long lost feelings, what ifs and the ability to take chances. M. Mabie develops excellent characters that are heartfelt, relatable and memorable. You will never get enough of them.
Faith and Aaron had a sweet young love, but as they grew older, life became an obstacle and decisions had to be made for the future; one being Aaron leaving to join the Forces. Years gone, Faith resumed her life in the small quaint town raising her precious daughter, Delaney. Now, years later, Aaron returns proving that time apart holds no barred on love. They both hold jobs that thrust both into each other's lives and their connection for one another is even stronger. Can they procure enough strength to take that second chance at love?
M. Mabie wrote an amazing romance showcasing all the vulnerabilities of what a couple must endure when taking that leap of faith. I enjoyed her writing in this novel. Capturing and written effortlessly. Pulling me in to Faith and Aaron’s journey. Not to mention a little girl who brought a child-ish joy, humor to the pages. Making me smile throughout.
This is a wonderful addition to the City Limits series, everyone needs to read Faith and Aaron’s remarkable journey on reclaimed love.
5 Stars
All consuming, adorable and endearing second chance romance by M. Mabie. Smoke and Mirrors held my heart and had me fully entranced from the beginning until the end. A story, written by a talented author, that will leave you wanting more from the City Limits series.
“I wouldn’t be someone’s option. Someone’s maybe someday.”
A tale of two souls reconnecting and a relationship that’s well deserved when given the effort. Smoke and Mirrors plays on long lost feelings, what ifs and the ability to take chances. M. Mabie develops excellent characters that are heartfelt, relatable and memorable. You will never get enough of them.
Faith and Aaron had a sweet young love, but as they grew older, life became an obstacle and decisions had to be made for the future; one being Aaron leaving to join the Forces. Years gone, Faith resumed her life in the small quaint town raising her precious daughter, Delaney. Now, years later, Aaron returns proving that time apart holds no barred on love. They both hold jobs that thrust both into each other's lives and their connection for one another is even stronger. Can they procure enough strength to take that second chance at love?
M. Mabie wrote an amazing romance showcasing all the vulnerabilities of what a couple must endure when taking that leap of faith. I enjoyed her writing in this novel. Capturing and written effortlessly. Pulling me in to Faith and Aaron’s journey. Not to mention a little girl who brought a child-ish joy, humor to the pages. Making me smile throughout.
This is a wonderful addition to the City Limits series, everyone needs to read Faith and Aaron’s remarkable journey on reclaimed love.
5 Stars
February 6, 2018
I really struggled with this, Faith and Aaron were a couple? during their teenage years but then he left to join the air force and Faith got married, had a daughter then divorced. Y.E.A.R.S. later, after checking out each other from afar, they did that a lot btw, they resumed their friendship and began a relationship which was not portrayed interestingly and I wanted to stop reading and take a long nap, thanks to the book. Faith was named wrongly by her mum as she had absolutely no faith in herself, Aaron was pretty decent. Faith's daughter, Delaney was funny and cute so as Aaron's dalmatian hence the one star is for them.
January 25, 2018
Going back to Wynne is something I absolutely treasure. Getting more of M. Mabie’s exceptional words is something I look forward to with all that I have. Being with her wonderful and distinctive characters is something that just gives me life and everything that I need.
Reading her books always feels good. Damn good. I never want them to end. Ever. I’m never ready to say goodbye to her characters and the feels that they give me. I’m never ready for the story to end, I’m never ready for it to stop consuming me like all of her stories do. I’m never ready to sever the vibrant and all-feeling connection I feel to her words and what she so memorably creates with them.
The inviting and memorable world and characters and moments she creates within the pages of her books’ take me in in the most authentic and heartfelt way. They take me in, they own me while I am in their dynamic grasp, and by the end of it all, I never want them to let me go because that’s how good and right and enjoyable they are.
I can’t get enough of M. Mabie’s words. Or her books. Or her characters. Or what she gives me with them along the way. I can never get enough of it all.
And that is just a fraction of what makes her books so incredible, so enrapturing, and so moving.
Smoke and Mirrors was another exceptional example of M. Mabie’s writing talent and thoughtful storytelling. Every word of this book stole my heart and soul, while simultaneously letting me feel like I was coming home to the best group of characters a girl could ask for. The way she brought it all to life through her words, through the memorable and all-feeling moments she so fantastically created, and the way she let me live it and breathe it and just experience it all was everything to me.
Everything.
This book was equal parts sweet, meaningful, and heartfelt. It perfectly balanced every amazing aspect of its second chance nature, while giving me a love story that touched every facet of my heart. This story was one built on emotion, feels, heart, second chances, and a helluva lot of hope and strength and fight.
I honestly can’t tell you enough how amazing it was to read and experience. This book just felt good to read. Every word, every sentence, every page and moment felt good and right and needed.
It felt like the perfect summer day. It was fulfilling, satisfying, and it flooded me with the most beautiful feeling of contented pleasure. All of M. Mabie’s City Limits books have felt that way, and this book just showed me even more why I love this series, why I love the wonderful and distinctive and honest characters it gives me, and why I can’t get enough of a little town named Wynne.
The events of this story follows two characters, as they get a second chance to fix what could’ve been. Years ago Aaron and Faith had a connection that was full of fire and longing and young love, but there were obstacles that held them back and stood in their way. Now years have passed, yet their connection and feelings and longing for one another have only strengthened. He’s left and come back, she’s now a single mom to an amazing little girl, and they both seemed to be plagued with thoughts of “what would’ve happened it we…” It is those thoughts that take up more of their minds and hearts than they are willing to really admit, and that is what eventually gives them both that little nudge to see what could be.
Smoke and Mirrors follows what happens when Aaron and Faith decide to take that leap of faith, to meet that push that urges them to think of what they could share and have together, and to try to see what might happen if they gave it all a real shot.
This story follows them and their honest and so easy to love hearts as they take that second chance, as they feel it all, and as they try to figure out what the future might hold for them both. They share an intertwined past that seeps into their present in more ways than one. They also share a strong as all get out connection that has them both knowing that they need to do something. It is that connection and pull that will have you in every word of this book, experiencing it all with them as they take that second chance, as their fight and determination and tenacity shines through, and as they soon start to realize that falling for one another is oh so easy when you already fell so long ago.
There were so many aspects that I absolutely loved about this book. I loved that it gave me a front row seat to a second chance romance. Second chance love stories are my jam, and Aaron and Faith highlighted that for me again and again while I experienced their second chance at it all. They showed what second chances are all about. They showed the vulnerabilities and worries and fears that come with them. They showed what happened when you put all of that aside and took that leap of faith to see what could be. They showed every part of their hearts and pasts, they showed how it was all affecting them in the present, and along the way they showed their hopes and dreams and their longing.
Getting all of that was nothing short of spectacular.
What I loved about this book was that it gave me a story about what happens when two people fight for what they want and need and for what they believe in, all while showing their realistic, sweet, and heart melting journey together as they gave it all another chance.
This book let their story unfold in the most magical and fitting way that will have you swooning something fierce, while simultaneously wishing you were them getting to feel every ounce of what they share.
Suffice to say, those two completely stole my heart. Every page solidified my love for them and my adamant belief in what they shared. That combined with the wonderful characters of Wynne made this story incredible on every level.
Aaron was a man that I loved from the start. I loved how good of a guy he was. I loved that he was a hard worker, both at his job and his life and with everything he wanted to share with Faith. I loved that he was a man who would not give up, and who would not apologize for doing what he knew was right. Aaron was a character who was true to his word, who was so honest and real, and he was someone who was doing all that he could to right the wrong choice he made all those years ago. I loved him so fiercely. I loved his heart, his determination, and how he was there for Faith and her little girl. I swooned for that man, I rooted him on and believed in him, and I just loved him with all that I had.
Plus who can resist a firefighter with a heart of gold?! (The answer to that question is no one, in case you were wondering.)
Faith was a woman who I connected to immediately. I found her so real, so genuine, and she was such a good person and mother doing the best she could for her little girl and herself. That girl has more strength and tenacity than you can shake a stick at, and seeing all that she did to get by and to give her daughter the life she deserved was amazing. It seared my heart to that woman, and the sheer strength she had and how hard she worked and fought for it all was the absolute best. I also loved how real of a character she was. She was smart, she had hesitancies like any person in her shoes would have, and she wasn’t afraid to be honest with what worried her. She was real and complicated in such an endearing way, and that was just one of many things that had me loving her to pieces. She was also just a damn good person and mother and friend, and every interaction with her made me smile or laugh of feel such a strong connection to her.
She was her through and through, and I loved every relatable and sweet bit of her that I got to know and understand in this book.
Everything those two shared together pulled at my heart. It made me believe in everything they were trying to build with their second chance. It had me feeling it all right along with them through M. Mabie’s enrapturing and authentic writing. It had me basking in the memorable moments they shared, the fire that sparked between them, and the feelings that had them falling hard for one another. Every word of this book had me rooting for them and that was just another thing pulling me into this incredible book.
No to be outdone, the rest of the characters that make the world of Wynne what it is are back in this book and will have you loving every moment you get with them. You will love Delaney, Faith’s daughter, with all that you have. The spunk and sass of that girl is all kinds of amazing, and you will love getting her interactions with Faith, with the other people of Wynne, and especially with Aaron. *cue all the swooning* All your favorites are back. Rhett, Sunny, Darrel, Hannah, Vaughn, and so many others that will have you loving what you’re reading and feeling like you just want to pull up a chair and sit down for a beer with them all.
All of these wonderfully distinctive characters make this world and series what it is, and they all add another fantastic layer to this love story that will just have you chomping at the bit for the next time you get more of them all.
Smoke and Mirrors is a story that I loved every word of. I loved how it allowed me to feel good and how it encapsulated me within a story that was magical and real and so honestly heartfelt. I loved how it stole my heart, how it made me hope and wonder and wish, how it let me get the vulnerabilities and the honest selves of these characters, and how it just gave me a second chance romance that gave me everything. This book was another incredible addition to this series, and it told a story that was sweet, real, and one that everyone should have the pleasure of reading.
This book is all about what you do with the second chance you’re given. Do you wait? Do you leap? Do you dance around your feelings, or do you let them take charge? Do you hold back because of what could happen, or do you give it one last push because something could happen? Do you love? Do you fall? Do you put your heart on your sleeve for the chance at something more?
Smoke and Mirrors gave me the answers to all of those questions and more. It gave me a love story that was so memorable and enjoyable and real, it gave me two characters whose hearts shined through every moment, and in the end it let me get a front row seat to a second chance love story that was outstanding in every way possible.
This book made me smile, it made me laugh, and it made me feel good. It gave me every part of these characters and their journey together, and it showed me just how right they were for one another.
M. Mabie excels at real life romance, and Smoke and Mirrors delivers a spectacular real life romance that will have you swooning, have you feeling it all, and that will have you believing in the meaningful power of a good second chance.
Reading her books always feels good. Damn good. I never want them to end. Ever. I’m never ready to say goodbye to her characters and the feels that they give me. I’m never ready for the story to end, I’m never ready for it to stop consuming me like all of her stories do. I’m never ready to sever the vibrant and all-feeling connection I feel to her words and what she so memorably creates with them.
The inviting and memorable world and characters and moments she creates within the pages of her books’ take me in in the most authentic and heartfelt way. They take me in, they own me while I am in their dynamic grasp, and by the end of it all, I never want them to let me go because that’s how good and right and enjoyable they are.
I can’t get enough of M. Mabie’s words. Or her books. Or her characters. Or what she gives me with them along the way. I can never get enough of it all.
And that is just a fraction of what makes her books so incredible, so enrapturing, and so moving.
Smoke and Mirrors was another exceptional example of M. Mabie’s writing talent and thoughtful storytelling. Every word of this book stole my heart and soul, while simultaneously letting me feel like I was coming home to the best group of characters a girl could ask for. The way she brought it all to life through her words, through the memorable and all-feeling moments she so fantastically created, and the way she let me live it and breathe it and just experience it all was everything to me.
Everything.
This book was equal parts sweet, meaningful, and heartfelt. It perfectly balanced every amazing aspect of its second chance nature, while giving me a love story that touched every facet of my heart. This story was one built on emotion, feels, heart, second chances, and a helluva lot of hope and strength and fight.
I honestly can’t tell you enough how amazing it was to read and experience. This book just felt good to read. Every word, every sentence, every page and moment felt good and right and needed.
It felt like the perfect summer day. It was fulfilling, satisfying, and it flooded me with the most beautiful feeling of contented pleasure. All of M. Mabie’s City Limits books have felt that way, and this book just showed me even more why I love this series, why I love the wonderful and distinctive and honest characters it gives me, and why I can’t get enough of a little town named Wynne.
The events of this story follows two characters, as they get a second chance to fix what could’ve been. Years ago Aaron and Faith had a connection that was full of fire and longing and young love, but there were obstacles that held them back and stood in their way. Now years have passed, yet their connection and feelings and longing for one another have only strengthened. He’s left and come back, she’s now a single mom to an amazing little girl, and they both seemed to be plagued with thoughts of “what would’ve happened it we…” It is those thoughts that take up more of their minds and hearts than they are willing to really admit, and that is what eventually gives them both that little nudge to see what could be.
Smoke and Mirrors follows what happens when Aaron and Faith decide to take that leap of faith, to meet that push that urges them to think of what they could share and have together, and to try to see what might happen if they gave it all a real shot.
This story follows them and their honest and so easy to love hearts as they take that second chance, as they feel it all, and as they try to figure out what the future might hold for them both. They share an intertwined past that seeps into their present in more ways than one. They also share a strong as all get out connection that has them both knowing that they need to do something. It is that connection and pull that will have you in every word of this book, experiencing it all with them as they take that second chance, as their fight and determination and tenacity shines through, and as they soon start to realize that falling for one another is oh so easy when you already fell so long ago.
There were so many aspects that I absolutely loved about this book. I loved that it gave me a front row seat to a second chance romance. Second chance love stories are my jam, and Aaron and Faith highlighted that for me again and again while I experienced their second chance at it all. They showed what second chances are all about. They showed the vulnerabilities and worries and fears that come with them. They showed what happened when you put all of that aside and took that leap of faith to see what could be. They showed every part of their hearts and pasts, they showed how it was all affecting them in the present, and along the way they showed their hopes and dreams and their longing.
Getting all of that was nothing short of spectacular.
What I loved about this book was that it gave me a story about what happens when two people fight for what they want and need and for what they believe in, all while showing their realistic, sweet, and heart melting journey together as they gave it all another chance.
This book let their story unfold in the most magical and fitting way that will have you swooning something fierce, while simultaneously wishing you were them getting to feel every ounce of what they share.
Suffice to say, those two completely stole my heart. Every page solidified my love for them and my adamant belief in what they shared. That combined with the wonderful characters of Wynne made this story incredible on every level.
Aaron was a man that I loved from the start. I loved how good of a guy he was. I loved that he was a hard worker, both at his job and his life and with everything he wanted to share with Faith. I loved that he was a man who would not give up, and who would not apologize for doing what he knew was right. Aaron was a character who was true to his word, who was so honest and real, and he was someone who was doing all that he could to right the wrong choice he made all those years ago. I loved him so fiercely. I loved his heart, his determination, and how he was there for Faith and her little girl. I swooned for that man, I rooted him on and believed in him, and I just loved him with all that I had.
Plus who can resist a firefighter with a heart of gold?! (The answer to that question is no one, in case you were wondering.)
Faith was a woman who I connected to immediately. I found her so real, so genuine, and she was such a good person and mother doing the best she could for her little girl and herself. That girl has more strength and tenacity than you can shake a stick at, and seeing all that she did to get by and to give her daughter the life she deserved was amazing. It seared my heart to that woman, and the sheer strength she had and how hard she worked and fought for it all was the absolute best. I also loved how real of a character she was. She was smart, she had hesitancies like any person in her shoes would have, and she wasn’t afraid to be honest with what worried her. She was real and complicated in such an endearing way, and that was just one of many things that had me loving her to pieces. She was also just a damn good person and mother and friend, and every interaction with her made me smile or laugh of feel such a strong connection to her.
She was her through and through, and I loved every relatable and sweet bit of her that I got to know and understand in this book.
Everything those two shared together pulled at my heart. It made me believe in everything they were trying to build with their second chance. It had me feeling it all right along with them through M. Mabie’s enrapturing and authentic writing. It had me basking in the memorable moments they shared, the fire that sparked between them, and the feelings that had them falling hard for one another. Every word of this book had me rooting for them and that was just another thing pulling me into this incredible book.
No to be outdone, the rest of the characters that make the world of Wynne what it is are back in this book and will have you loving every moment you get with them. You will love Delaney, Faith’s daughter, with all that you have. The spunk and sass of that girl is all kinds of amazing, and you will love getting her interactions with Faith, with the other people of Wynne, and especially with Aaron. *cue all the swooning* All your favorites are back. Rhett, Sunny, Darrel, Hannah, Vaughn, and so many others that will have you loving what you’re reading and feeling like you just want to pull up a chair and sit down for a beer with them all.
All of these wonderfully distinctive characters make this world and series what it is, and they all add another fantastic layer to this love story that will just have you chomping at the bit for the next time you get more of them all.
Smoke and Mirrors is a story that I loved every word of. I loved how it allowed me to feel good and how it encapsulated me within a story that was magical and real and so honestly heartfelt. I loved how it stole my heart, how it made me hope and wonder and wish, how it let me get the vulnerabilities and the honest selves of these characters, and how it just gave me a second chance romance that gave me everything. This book was another incredible addition to this series, and it told a story that was sweet, real, and one that everyone should have the pleasure of reading.
This book is all about what you do with the second chance you’re given. Do you wait? Do you leap? Do you dance around your feelings, or do you let them take charge? Do you hold back because of what could happen, or do you give it one last push because something could happen? Do you love? Do you fall? Do you put your heart on your sleeve for the chance at something more?
Smoke and Mirrors gave me the answers to all of those questions and more. It gave me a love story that was so memorable and enjoyable and real, it gave me two characters whose hearts shined through every moment, and in the end it let me get a front row seat to a second chance love story that was outstanding in every way possible.
This book made me smile, it made me laugh, and it made me feel good. It gave me every part of these characters and their journey together, and it showed me just how right they were for one another.
M. Mabie excels at real life romance, and Smoke and Mirrors delivers a spectacular real life romance that will have you swooning, have you feeling it all, and that will have you believing in the meaningful power of a good second chance.
March 9, 2018
I gave it 4 solid stars. First the story was too slow for me. But it got much better from 60%, so patience!
And MC were really good, the H (but i like them with more determination, he waited for 4 solid years to be with the h).
The h was good and strong.
There wasnt OM/OW drama. They were both celibate.
And MC were really good, the H (but i like them with more determination, he waited for 4 solid years to be with the h).
The h was good and strong.
There wasnt OM/OW drama. They were both celibate.
January 26, 2018
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
All consuming, adorable and endearing second chance romance by M. Mabie. Smoke and Mirrors held my heart and had me fully entranced from the beginning until the end. A story, written by a talented author, that will leave you wanting more from the City Limits series.
“I wouldn’t be someone’s option. Someone’s maybe someday.”
A tale of two souls reconnecting and a relationship that’s well deserved when given the effort. Smoke and Mirrors plays on long lost feelings, what ifs and the ability to take chances. M. Mabie develops excellent characters that are heartfelt, relatable and memorable. You will never get enough of them.
Faith and Aaron had a sweet young love, but as they grew older, life became an obstacle and decisions had to be made for the future; one being Aaron leaving to join the Forces. Years gone, Faith resumed her life in the small quaint town raising her precious daughter, Delaney. Now, years later, Aaron returns proving that time apart holds no barred on love. They both hold jobs that thrust both into each other's lives and their connection for one another is even stronger. Can they procure enough strength to take that second chance at love?
M. Mabie wrote an amazing romance showcasing all the vulnerabilities of what a couple must endure when taking that leap of faith. I enjoyed her writing in this novel. Capturing and written effortlessly. Pulling me in to Faith and Aaron’s journey. Not to mention a little girl who brought a child-ish joy, humor to the pages. Making me smile throughout.
This is a wonderful addition to the City Limits series, everyone needs to read Faith and Aaron’s remarkable journey on reclaimed love.
All consuming, adorable and endearing second chance romance by M. Mabie. Smoke and Mirrors held my heart and had me fully entranced from the beginning until the end. A story, written by a talented author, that will leave you wanting more from the City Limits series.
“I wouldn’t be someone’s option. Someone’s maybe someday.”
A tale of two souls reconnecting and a relationship that’s well deserved when given the effort. Smoke and Mirrors plays on long lost feelings, what ifs and the ability to take chances. M. Mabie develops excellent characters that are heartfelt, relatable and memorable. You will never get enough of them.
Faith and Aaron had a sweet young love, but as they grew older, life became an obstacle and decisions had to be made for the future; one being Aaron leaving to join the Forces. Years gone, Faith resumed her life in the small quaint town raising her precious daughter, Delaney. Now, years later, Aaron returns proving that time apart holds no barred on love. They both hold jobs that thrust both into each other's lives and their connection for one another is even stronger. Can they procure enough strength to take that second chance at love?
M. Mabie wrote an amazing romance showcasing all the vulnerabilities of what a couple must endure when taking that leap of faith. I enjoyed her writing in this novel. Capturing and written effortlessly. Pulling me in to Faith and Aaron’s journey. Not to mention a little girl who brought a child-ish joy, humor to the pages. Making me smile throughout.
This is a wonderful addition to the City Limits series, everyone needs to read Faith and Aaron’s remarkable journey on reclaimed love.
January 24, 2018
M. Mabie sure knows how to make sure you meet every type of character that you can. That’s my favorite thing about her. She’s dynamic. She changes it up. She can write about anyone in any place and she succeeds in it. And in Smoke and Mirrors it’s no different.
“You’re a mom. It’s never going to feel like you’ve got your shit together. Ever. Every mom. Rich. Poor. Stay at home. Working full-time. Single parent. Happily married. They all feel like they could do better.”
A single mother. Mo nailed it. And Aaron is the type of guy is single mothers strive for. She did such a fantastic job tying these two together and telling their story, which they both so much deserved.
The dual POV’s were a nice addition to this book. It really benefited the story in a way that needed to be done. We needed to know what was going on with Aaron but we also needed to know what was going on with Faith and the way she was coping with things and raising Delaney. And speaking of Delaney...
Delaney melted my heart. Whether she was with Aaron or Faith, she was melting my heart to the ground in a huge puddle. I have the hugest soft spot for her in every way, shape, and form.
Every time I pick up a M. Mabie book I know I will be in for a good time and Smoke and Mirrors was no different. I like the quick pace, small town living of this series and this book was no exception.
“You’re a mom. It’s never going to feel like you’ve got your shit together. Ever. Every mom. Rich. Poor. Stay at home. Working full-time. Single parent. Happily married. They all feel like they could do better.”
A single mother. Mo nailed it. And Aaron is the type of guy is single mothers strive for. She did such a fantastic job tying these two together and telling their story, which they both so much deserved.
The dual POV’s were a nice addition to this book. It really benefited the story in a way that needed to be done. We needed to know what was going on with Aaron but we also needed to know what was going on with Faith and the way she was coping with things and raising Delaney. And speaking of Delaney...
Delaney melted my heart. Whether she was with Aaron or Faith, she was melting my heart to the ground in a huge puddle. I have the hugest soft spot for her in every way, shape, and form.
Every time I pick up a M. Mabie book I know I will be in for a good time and Smoke and Mirrors was no different. I like the quick pace, small town living of this series and this book was no exception.
January 28, 2018
I made it to 40% & then gave up, I just didn't get it. How is this a second chance romance? They were just friends they didn't even kiss, then the H joins the Air Force & comes back a few years later when h has just had a baby with someone else who leaves as soon as her daughter is born. They live just up the road from each other & he makes no move for FOUR YEARS!!!! Arghhhhh just ridiculous he was in the Air Force & he can't talk to her just nope. I felt like I was reading about 2 ten year olds.
February 4, 2018
I love this story. It's a little long, but still a great read. Didn't skim. Loved how he loved her.
March 14, 2018
I want to start by saying I wanted to DNF at the beginning. Very early on.. maybe 5%. But, I have a very long commute to my work and somehow, over time, because I had nothing else to do, I have finished it. And that really is the only reason why I finished it.
Besides the book being an absolute snooze fest, I also had my issues with it.
1. The reason why they didn't talk for years. Oh, yeah, there was no good reason. :D
2. Did I mention how boring it was?
That's pretty much it. Besides the little bitty drama at around 85% LITERALLY NOTHING ELSE HAPPENS.
Besides the book being an absolute snooze fest, I also had my issues with it.
1. The reason why they didn't talk for years. Oh, yeah, there was no good reason. :D
2. Did I mention how boring it was?
That's pretty much it. Besides the little bitty drama at around 85% LITERALLY NOTHING ELSE HAPPENS.
January 28, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of The Book Boyfriend Addict (www.bookboyfriendaddict.com). A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
“I didn’t wait for you, Aaron.”
His brows rose. “But I can wait for you.”
Aaron Goodman and Faith Simpson were best friends in their teens but despite both of them wanting more than friendship, their timing never quite worked out. Aaron was a few years older than Faith and didn’t want to tie her down when he knew he’d be leaving for the Air Force after graduation which is why he gently turns her down when she finally makes her feelings known one night. She agrees to wait for him, but life happens and when he returns four years later he finds her raising a daughter alone. He’s never stopped thinking about her all the time he’s been gone and now that he’s back he can’t not look out for her and her young daughter, even if he has to do it from afar. It’s been years now and they’re both still tip-toeing around one another, both hoping to get back to the place they once were but neither one brave enough to take that first step. Then they finally decide to go for it and things are good, better than good, but have they finally gotten their timing right or will Faith slip through Aaron’s fingers once more?
“Fay, there is no rush. There’s no expiration date on me wanting you. We’ll do this our way. One minute at a time.”
It’s good to be back in Wynne! I really love this small town and getting to visit with its residents again is always a treat. This latest installment focuses on our sexy, swoony, former Air Force firefighter, Aaron and strong, independent, single mother, Faith. These two had a history and a really great friendship, which makes it so much sadder seeing how strained things are for them in the present day. Things get off to a slow start for these two (insanely slow considering they had been like this for four years before we meet up with them!) but when they finally decide to take the leap, things were so sweet. I really loved them together, they had great chemistry and Aaron was just amazing with her. I also loved how great he was with Faith’s daughter, Delaney, who was a little spitfire and was so adorable. There’s nothing more swoon-worthy than a guy falling in love with his woman and her kid! Much like in Roots & Wings and Sunshine & Rain, the angst was pretty low in this one but there was a twist I wasn’t expecting toward the end which did add a little bit of angst. But it really just ended up making me love Aaron that much more! It was also fun seeing Hannah, Vaugh, Sunny, Rhett and the other residents of Wynne again. I hope there’s more to come from Wynne, I’ll be looking forward to my next return!
“You’re beautiful,” I said and then flipped us over. Her fingers tapped over my face.
“You can’t even see me,” she gently argued.
“Oh, I see you. I’ve always seen you.”
“I didn’t wait for you, Aaron.”
His brows rose. “But I can wait for you.”
Aaron Goodman and Faith Simpson were best friends in their teens but despite both of them wanting more than friendship, their timing never quite worked out. Aaron was a few years older than Faith and didn’t want to tie her down when he knew he’d be leaving for the Air Force after graduation which is why he gently turns her down when she finally makes her feelings known one night. She agrees to wait for him, but life happens and when he returns four years later he finds her raising a daughter alone. He’s never stopped thinking about her all the time he’s been gone and now that he’s back he can’t not look out for her and her young daughter, even if he has to do it from afar. It’s been years now and they’re both still tip-toeing around one another, both hoping to get back to the place they once were but neither one brave enough to take that first step. Then they finally decide to go for it and things are good, better than good, but have they finally gotten their timing right or will Faith slip through Aaron’s fingers once more?
“Fay, there is no rush. There’s no expiration date on me wanting you. We’ll do this our way. One minute at a time.”
It’s good to be back in Wynne! I really love this small town and getting to visit with its residents again is always a treat. This latest installment focuses on our sexy, swoony, former Air Force firefighter, Aaron and strong, independent, single mother, Faith. These two had a history and a really great friendship, which makes it so much sadder seeing how strained things are for them in the present day. Things get off to a slow start for these two (insanely slow considering they had been like this for four years before we meet up with them!) but when they finally decide to take the leap, things were so sweet. I really loved them together, they had great chemistry and Aaron was just amazing with her. I also loved how great he was with Faith’s daughter, Delaney, who was a little spitfire and was so adorable. There’s nothing more swoon-worthy than a guy falling in love with his woman and her kid! Much like in Roots & Wings and Sunshine & Rain, the angst was pretty low in this one but there was a twist I wasn’t expecting toward the end which did add a little bit of angst. But it really just ended up making me love Aaron that much more! It was also fun seeing Hannah, Vaugh, Sunny, Rhett and the other residents of Wynne again. I hope there’s more to come from Wynne, I’ll be looking forward to my next return!
“You’re beautiful,” I said and then flipped us over. Her fingers tapped over my face.
“You can’t even see me,” she gently argued.
“Oh, I see you. I’ve always seen you.”
January 26, 2018
I wish I could put M. Mabie’s fictional town of Wynne on my bucket list of places I want to go, but since it is fictional I’ll have to settle for going there through Mo’s words. And they are great words.
Aaron and Faith are a couple that have known each other forever but have never given into their feelings for each other for one reason or another. Aaron left for the military will the thought that he didn’t want to tie Faith down. Faith wanted Aaron but after he left, she found herself with another and then pregnant.
After her daughter is born and Faith finds herself alone, she throws herself into raising her child and trying to move on with her life. Aaron has returned and watches Faith from afar, not knowing how to make his move.
Four years later, FOUR YEARS, he decides it’s time to make his move. As both Aaron and Faith explore this new dimension to their relationship, they discover that even though time has moved on, their feelings for each other are the same.
With appearances from other characters in the City Limit series, it definitely feels like going home. Faith’s daughter, Delaney, is a wonderful addition to the Wynne family.
M. Mabie has given us a wonderful storyline of renewed love. With beautifully written words, exceptional characters and a HEA that will fill your heart full of good feelings, I highly recommend this book.
5 Stars
#2OCCMS
Aaron and Faith are a couple that have known each other forever but have never given into their feelings for each other for one reason or another. Aaron left for the military will the thought that he didn’t want to tie Faith down. Faith wanted Aaron but after he left, she found herself with another and then pregnant.
After her daughter is born and Faith finds herself alone, she throws herself into raising her child and trying to move on with her life. Aaron has returned and watches Faith from afar, not knowing how to make his move.
Four years later, FOUR YEARS, he decides it’s time to make his move. As both Aaron and Faith explore this new dimension to their relationship, they discover that even though time has moved on, their feelings for each other are the same.
With appearances from other characters in the City Limit series, it definitely feels like going home. Faith’s daughter, Delaney, is a wonderful addition to the Wynne family.
M. Mabie has given us a wonderful storyline of renewed love. With beautifully written words, exceptional characters and a HEA that will fill your heart full of good feelings, I highly recommend this book.
5 Stars
#2OCCMS
January 25, 2018
Smoke and Mirrors is another installment in the City Limits series. Taking place in the small town of Wynne, where there are no strangers, just friends that haven't yet met. This time around we get the story of Faith, a single mom to the very adorable and spunky Delaney, who still thinks about the man who got away: one Aaron Goodman. But what surprised me and almost had me wanting to smack this rugged and handsome firefighter was that he's been back from his tour of duty and has been living down the street from Faith for the past four years! They've maintained a politeness as they see each a few times a day and when Aaron finally found his nerve and decides to grab his girl once and for all I was just as happy as Faith was.
This is a true slow burn as these two former best friends find their way back into each other's lives. The author takes her time and much like Aaron and Faith, proceeds with caution. There is a definite chemistry between the two and I honestly just couldn't wait until they would finally admit how they have felt since Faith was only 16 and Aaron was an 18 year old senior ready to take on the world.
It's a truly sweet story with the right amount of heat and humor. Delaney is a definite standout as are Faith's online besties who help her each and every day with their honest and hysterical support.
An easy read when you need something a bit lighter and joyful.
This is a true slow burn as these two former best friends find their way back into each other's lives. The author takes her time and much like Aaron and Faith, proceeds with caution. There is a definite chemistry between the two and I honestly just couldn't wait until they would finally admit how they have felt since Faith was only 16 and Aaron was an 18 year old senior ready to take on the world.
It's a truly sweet story with the right amount of heat and humor. Delaney is a definite standout as are Faith's online besties who help her each and every day with their honest and hysterical support.
An easy read when you need something a bit lighter and joyful.
January 28, 2018
how do you get the girl when you screwed it all up 8yrs before? what do you do when you've been in love with the girl since high school but wait 8yrs to tell her? how do you tell her the secrets you've kept since she became a single parent 4yrs ago?
these are the questions Aaron has to answer and not only to himself. will he get the girl and her daughter? will she forgive his lies?
these are the questions Aaron has to answer and not only to himself. will he get the girl and her daughter? will she forgive his lies?
January 28, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of KU Book Reviews.
January 28, 2018
I love this story. It's a little long, but still a great read. Didn't skim. Loved how he loved her.
March 11, 2021
This was a fun distraction - low on angst and cute small town romance.
February 5, 2018
I gotta say, I wasn’t sure where this was going because it was a very slow burn. But let me tell you what.....Faith is everything to me. There is nothing I love more than a strong female. This book was something I will hold close to my heart.
January 28, 2018
~4.5 STARS~
Smoke and Mirrors by M. Mabie is a sweet, sexy smalltown romance! I loved it!
Faith and Aaron were best friends when they were younger, but Faith always wanted him to see her as more. She definitely saw him as more, but their timing was never right. Aaron was leaving for the military, and he never wanted Faith waiting for him. When she told him how she felt, he lets her go to live her own life. He didn’t want her missing living life while he was gone.
Years later, Aaron is back. Their lives are completely different. He is a firefighter and does construction jobs on the side. She works at her mother’s diner and at a local bar. Her most important job is being a mother to her daughter, Delaney. The feelings are still there, yet neither one will really talk to one another. It’s not like he is new in town. He’s been there for 4 years. Which one of them will break down first and make the first move?
I loved both of these characters. Despite what life has thrown at Faith, her spirit nor her sass has ever been extinguished. She always put her daughter’s needs first just like any good mother would. Although, I felt sorry for her at times because of her loneliness. She doesn’t have time to fantasize about anyone, even though she occasionally fantasizes about Aaron. Her dream is having someone take her trash out and being able to afford things she needs, like new tires. So, when Aaron makes his intentions known, I loved seeing her nervousness come out.
Oh Aaron, what a man! Not only is he incredibly sexy, but he has a heart to match. He gives back to those he loves, and my heart just melted more when I discovered he was doing small things for Faith, like cleaning her gutters, replanting her rosebush several times, and finally getting it to survive. He was her sexy guardian angel. Sometimes, he might have gone a little too far, but his intentions were always good! His relationship with Faith’s daughter, Delaney, was just precious. She never had a father figure, and she hit the jackpot with Aaron.
Several things stood out to me in the book, Faith’s best friends. They were all online friends she met in a chatroom. That was a unique thing, but it reflects our society today. Even though they had never met in person, they were so supportive of one another and shared all their secrets.
Little Miss Delaney was a spitfire. I loved that little precocious thing. I would love to see how much trouble she is going to cause Aaron and Faith in the future!
I certainly didn’t see the twist coming that Mabie gave us. It made the book even better! I haven’t read the other books in the series, but I am looking forward to downloading and reading them.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
Smoke and Mirrors by M. Mabie is a sweet, sexy smalltown romance! I loved it!
Faith and Aaron were best friends when they were younger, but Faith always wanted him to see her as more. She definitely saw him as more, but their timing was never right. Aaron was leaving for the military, and he never wanted Faith waiting for him. When she told him how she felt, he lets her go to live her own life. He didn’t want her missing living life while he was gone.
Years later, Aaron is back. Their lives are completely different. He is a firefighter and does construction jobs on the side. She works at her mother’s diner and at a local bar. Her most important job is being a mother to her daughter, Delaney. The feelings are still there, yet neither one will really talk to one another. It’s not like he is new in town. He’s been there for 4 years. Which one of them will break down first and make the first move?
I loved both of these characters. Despite what life has thrown at Faith, her spirit nor her sass has ever been extinguished. She always put her daughter’s needs first just like any good mother would. Although, I felt sorry for her at times because of her loneliness. She doesn’t have time to fantasize about anyone, even though she occasionally fantasizes about Aaron. Her dream is having someone take her trash out and being able to afford things she needs, like new tires. So, when Aaron makes his intentions known, I loved seeing her nervousness come out.
Oh Aaron, what a man! Not only is he incredibly sexy, but he has a heart to match. He gives back to those he loves, and my heart just melted more when I discovered he was doing small things for Faith, like cleaning her gutters, replanting her rosebush several times, and finally getting it to survive. He was her sexy guardian angel. Sometimes, he might have gone a little too far, but his intentions were always good! His relationship with Faith’s daughter, Delaney, was just precious. She never had a father figure, and she hit the jackpot with Aaron.
Several things stood out to me in the book, Faith’s best friends. They were all online friends she met in a chatroom. That was a unique thing, but it reflects our society today. Even though they had never met in person, they were so supportive of one another and shared all their secrets.
Little Miss Delaney was a spitfire. I loved that little precocious thing. I would love to see how much trouble she is going to cause Aaron and Faith in the future!
I certainly didn’t see the twist coming that Mabie gave us. It made the book even better! I haven’t read the other books in the series, but I am looking forward to downloading and reading them.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
December 12, 2018
5 They'll Do It Their Way Stars!!!
I LOVE being back in Wynne!!! Faith and Aaron are the couple of this book and they're getting their second chance at their own forever.
It's been several years since these two said their goodbyes and so much has changed for Faith and her name is Delaney and she's the peanut butter to Faith's grape jelly. This girl is smart, beautiful, has a great sense of humor and absolutely no filter....which leads to a definite laugh out moment involving TMI...I almost had tears I was laughing so hard.
Back to Faith and Aaron...he's determined to get his girl back no matter what it takes. The problem is Faith. She's protective of her heart, because he broke it once before and she doesn't want to risk that again because this time there's more at stake.
I loved everything about this hard working, beautiful single mother. She does any and everything she can to provide for her daughter and she's built her circle of people that are there for her no matter what. When these two are together though, there's a current that runs between them that can be felt for miles....
Aaron has such patience with Faith and this made me love him that much more. These two together are perfect compliments to the other's weaknesses...
I LOVE being back in Wynne!!! Faith and Aaron are the couple of this book and they're getting their second chance at their own forever.
It's been several years since these two said their goodbyes and so much has changed for Faith and her name is Delaney and she's the peanut butter to Faith's grape jelly. This girl is smart, beautiful, has a great sense of humor and absolutely no filter....which leads to a definite laugh out moment involving TMI...I almost had tears I was laughing so hard.
Back to Faith and Aaron...he's determined to get his girl back no matter what it takes. The problem is Faith. She's protective of her heart, because he broke it once before and she doesn't want to risk that again because this time there's more at stake.
I loved everything about this hard working, beautiful single mother. She does any and everything she can to provide for her daughter and she's built her circle of people that are there for her no matter what. When these two are together though, there's a current that runs between them that can be felt for miles....
"I was drawn to her, like flames reaching for the sky, from the inside out. I was done being a coward."This sets the tone for the rest of the book and Faith has no chance at not becoming his....she just doesn't know it yet. Aaron went about making this happen with a fervor that was unmatched by anyone before. Faith so wants to love him and be loved, but rightfully so, she's scared. Thanks to Delaney though, that fear melts away the more time they all spend together.
Aaron has such patience with Faith and this made me love him that much more. These two together are perfect compliments to the other's weaknesses...
"There's no expiration date on me wanting you. We'll do this our way. One minute at a time."Once our H/h take the step to express their feelings for each other in a physical way. The emotions are literally floating off the pages of my kindle. Their coming together is sensual, sexy, beautiful and all consuming....
"She wrecked me. Possessed me. I was blindsided. She was a backdraft I never saw coming, and I was defenseless in her hands."I could go on and on about how much I adored this book. But that's not going to do it enough justice. Believe me when I tell you that Ms. Mabie has delivered a book that is a must read and covers almost every single emotion that I look for in a book and this is one that I will read again and again just so I can visit Wynne and it's residents as often as possible.
February 5, 2018
I'm not sure how she does it, but M Mabie with her impeccable writing, takes what could be an ordinary second chance love story, and turns it into something EXTRODINARY!!! She takes us back to the small town of Wynne, giving us a heartfelt and compelling story between that belongs to Aaron and Faith.
Let me just say Aaron is one of the most unselfish male characters I've ever read. He's back in his hometown, after serving in the Airforce, working as a fireman. Constantly staying busy, working and helping the town folk where he can, he tries not to think of the blond beauty just a stone throw from his own house, the one girl he walked away from. Thinking at the time, she was better off with out him, he comes back home realizing that this not the case.
Faith Simpson, the blonde haired beauty and mom to the adorable Delaney, is working hard trying to make a good life for her daughter. Working at the diner for her mom, and bartending at night, she knows her life did not turn out as she would have hoped, but being a good mother is what drives her. Chad, Delaney's dad left the day she was born, so she knows the feeling of abandonment, especially since it began with Aaron when she was 16.
Aaron and Faith have this magnetic pull to each other, you feel it every time their in the same room together. They're both trying to live their lives, being cordial with each other, even with their painful past never far from their minds. Knowing his choices are the reason they aren't together is a tuff pill to swallow, But Aaron has had enough, he can't take not being around her anymore. After trying to insert himself in small ways into her life, he decides to go for it, and take that second chance on love.
Mabie gives us a sweet,romantic and beautifully written story about two people who have loved each other from afar, but decide their second chance is there for the taking. Mabie's stories fill our hearts with love, and laughter, and a gives us a dramatic twist towards the end. I loved the friendship she shares with her girlfriends, and the talks they share with each other!! As usual I love the secondary characters, and Smokie and of course the loveable Del who will still your heart away.
Let me just say Aaron is one of the most unselfish male characters I've ever read. He's back in his hometown, after serving in the Airforce, working as a fireman. Constantly staying busy, working and helping the town folk where he can, he tries not to think of the blond beauty just a stone throw from his own house, the one girl he walked away from. Thinking at the time, she was better off with out him, he comes back home realizing that this not the case.
Faith Simpson, the blonde haired beauty and mom to the adorable Delaney, is working hard trying to make a good life for her daughter. Working at the diner for her mom, and bartending at night, she knows her life did not turn out as she would have hoped, but being a good mother is what drives her. Chad, Delaney's dad left the day she was born, so she knows the feeling of abandonment, especially since it began with Aaron when she was 16.
Aaron and Faith have this magnetic pull to each other, you feel it every time their in the same room together. They're both trying to live their lives, being cordial with each other, even with their painful past never far from their minds. Knowing his choices are the reason they aren't together is a tuff pill to swallow, But Aaron has had enough, he can't take not being around her anymore. After trying to insert himself in small ways into her life, he decides to go for it, and take that second chance on love.
Mabie gives us a sweet,romantic and beautifully written story about two people who have loved each other from afar, but decide their second chance is there for the taking. Mabie's stories fill our hearts with love, and laughter, and a gives us a dramatic twist towards the end. I loved the friendship she shares with her girlfriends, and the talks they share with each other!! As usual I love the secondary characters, and Smokie and of course the loveable Del who will still your heart away.
March 4, 2018
First of all, I´d like to say that M. Mabie did it again and made me fall in love right at the beginning of the book.
Not that I´m not a book whore (very proud of it), but usually it takes, at least, a few chapters.
I really love this series and all the characters, but Aaron will always be special. The way he behaved, how he took care of Faith (even if she had no idea of what was really happening), how much he loved her, how easilly he fell in love with Delaney, Faith´s absolutely adorable daughter, and how he was always available to solve everyone elses problems, it just makes him Dream Man Material. Also, extra points for bein a hot firefighter and liking dogs ;)
A thirsty person doesn´t complain about drinking tap water, but Aaron wasn´t lukewarm water from the faucet. He was Himalayan spring water in a golden challis.
I felt sorry for Faith. She was young and made a poor choice. She could (should) have waited for Aaron, but that didn´t happen and she became a single parent. She works her ass off to raise her daughter, with her mother´s help. Delaney is so smart, sweet and funny. She did a great job!
The only thing I didn´t like about the couple is that they took fo-re-ver to make a move. I was reading and thinking ´´For the love of god! Just kiss him/her already!`` They made me bite my nails.
I pushed.
She met me.
I ground.
She ground back.
I lost myself that night inside the woman I´d craved every day for as long as I could remember. I held back, and sometimes I couldn´t. But when my instinctsgot the better of me, and I gave her all I had, she took it and asked for more.
She writhed.
I swore
We went up in flames.
This was an amazing second chance romance and I´d love to read more about Aaron, Faith and Del in future books. Freaking loved it!
Not that I´m not a book whore (very proud of it), but usually it takes, at least, a few chapters.
I really love this series and all the characters, but Aaron will always be special. The way he behaved, how he took care of Faith (even if she had no idea of what was really happening), how much he loved her, how easilly he fell in love with Delaney, Faith´s absolutely adorable daughter, and how he was always available to solve everyone elses problems, it just makes him Dream Man Material. Also, extra points for bein a hot firefighter and liking dogs ;)
A thirsty person doesn´t complain about drinking tap water, but Aaron wasn´t lukewarm water from the faucet. He was Himalayan spring water in a golden challis.
I felt sorry for Faith. She was young and made a poor choice. She could (should) have waited for Aaron, but that didn´t happen and she became a single parent. She works her ass off to raise her daughter, with her mother´s help. Delaney is so smart, sweet and funny. She did a great job!
The only thing I didn´t like about the couple is that they took fo-re-ver to make a move. I was reading and thinking ´´For the love of god! Just kiss him/her already!`` They made me bite my nails.
I pushed.
She met me.
I ground.
She ground back.
I lost myself that night inside the woman I´d craved every day for as long as I could remember. I held back, and sometimes I couldn´t. But when my instinctsgot the better of me, and I gave her all I had, she took it and asked for more.
She writhed.
I swore
We went up in flames.
This was an amazing second chance romance and I´d love to read more about Aaron, Faith and Del in future books. Freaking loved it!
January 25, 2018
From the very first page of Smoke and Mirrors, the prose rose up from the flames and ignited my reader weary heart. I've been on a two month long reading drought, and with everything starting to sound the same, Mabie broke out of the mold a bit.
Aaron may be one of the most romantic characters I've read. His heart shows through in almost every single step he takes throughout this story. There is no doubt in my mind that I won't forget him as a character, and he now firmly holds a place in my top book boyfriends list. I am not sure I've read a story where the H is so cognizant of every step he takes and where it will get him in the future. I. Love. Him.
Faith is a great character, too. She is like so many of the strong single moms out there in real life. She works herself to the bone to provide for her daughter, and everything that she does is with her child in mind. Her daughter, Delaney, is an absolute delight (this coming from a person who avoids books with children like the plague). Faith doesn't wear her heart on her sleeve, she wears her motherhood like a badge of honor. It's tough to pierce that exterior -- even for herself.
I absolutely loved the ebb and flow of Smoke and Mirrors. This plays perfectly into the City Limits series, and, in my opinion, is the best in the series thus far. I hope the little town of Wynne gets more books because I loved seeing cameos of other characters and I adore the small town, laid back, easy feeling of these books.
I hope you pick this one up. It is such a great book! 4.5* from me!
Aaron may be one of the most romantic characters I've read. His heart shows through in almost every single step he takes throughout this story. There is no doubt in my mind that I won't forget him as a character, and he now firmly holds a place in my top book boyfriends list. I am not sure I've read a story where the H is so cognizant of every step he takes and where it will get him in the future. I. Love. Him.
Faith is a great character, too. She is like so many of the strong single moms out there in real life. She works herself to the bone to provide for her daughter, and everything that she does is with her child in mind. Her daughter, Delaney, is an absolute delight (this coming from a person who avoids books with children like the plague). Faith doesn't wear her heart on her sleeve, she wears her motherhood like a badge of honor. It's tough to pierce that exterior -- even for herself.
I absolutely loved the ebb and flow of Smoke and Mirrors. This plays perfectly into the City Limits series, and, in my opinion, is the best in the series thus far. I hope the little town of Wynne gets more books because I loved seeing cameos of other characters and I adore the small town, laid back, easy feeling of these books.
I hope you pick this one up. It is such a great book! 4.5* from me!
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January 31, 2018
I grew up in a small town, so I'm always excited to read about other small towns (fictional or real!). This series has been one that never failed to get me. In this installment, it was a second chance romance. What I love most about second chance romances are they hold everything that real about life -- mistakes, missed chances, stubbornness & pride -- and they still offer that glimmer of hope that everything will work together for a greater end.
This story was all of that. Faith and Aaron missed their chance. They were friends that each felt something for the other, but never dared speak it out loud. When Aaron joined the Air Force, Faith moved on, assuming she would never get the chance with him and hoping it would push him from her mind. Even in their time apart, neither of them forgot what they had felt.
When thrown back together years later back in their hometown, they each make a bit of an effort to avoid each other, but really they just want to find their way to each other. Once they finally get enough of living life just wanting and waiting for the other to make a move, their relationship developed so wonderfully. I loved that Aaron really wanted to include Faith's daughter in all of the aspects of growing together as a family.
The only thing I really wanted was more! Once the story was nearing its end, it seemed to move a little too quickly. Everything was wrapped up and then the story was done.
This was a sweet romance, filled with hope and all the beauty that comes from living in a small town. Absolutely heartwarming.
This story was all of that. Faith and Aaron missed their chance. They were friends that each felt something for the other, but never dared speak it out loud. When Aaron joined the Air Force, Faith moved on, assuming she would never get the chance with him and hoping it would push him from her mind. Even in their time apart, neither of them forgot what they had felt.
When thrown back together years later back in their hometown, they each make a bit of an effort to avoid each other, but really they just want to find their way to each other. Once they finally get enough of living life just wanting and waiting for the other to make a move, their relationship developed so wonderfully. I loved that Aaron really wanted to include Faith's daughter in all of the aspects of growing together as a family.
The only thing I really wanted was more! Once the story was nearing its end, it seemed to move a little too quickly. Everything was wrapped up and then the story was done.
This was a sweet romance, filled with hope and all the beauty that comes from living in a small town. Absolutely heartwarming.
January 25, 2018
I grew up in a small town and loved it until I didn't anymore. But if my hometown had all the swoon-worthy men that Wynne has... I would have never left.
With any series, I personally find myself looking for the other characters I'm already invested in or trying to remember the new characters from the other books in the one I'm starting. I had to remind myself these are standalones. There are some brief glimpses into the lives of the past characters which was a treat once I let go of my curiosity and got on board with the new story. I think because of that, the beginning was hard for me to connect to. Once Aaron and Faith sparked and started spending time together, their story sucked me in and I was a goner. I stayed up way too late finishing the whole book and I regret nothing!
Faith was very relatable, in her hopes and fears of being a single mom. And can I get an amen for seeing adult friendships consisting of texts because that's all we have time for!? Aaron is what dreams are made of. He has the biggest, most loyal heart of any of M. Mabie's male characters. And with the dual point of views, you truly get to understand both of them.
I enjoyed the book very much and it maintained that light, fun vibe that the other two books in the series had. I'll keep going back to Wynne anytime M. Mabie will take us there!
With any series, I personally find myself looking for the other characters I'm already invested in or trying to remember the new characters from the other books in the one I'm starting. I had to remind myself these are standalones. There are some brief glimpses into the lives of the past characters which was a treat once I let go of my curiosity and got on board with the new story. I think because of that, the beginning was hard for me to connect to. Once Aaron and Faith sparked and started spending time together, their story sucked me in and I was a goner. I stayed up way too late finishing the whole book and I regret nothing!
Faith was very relatable, in her hopes and fears of being a single mom. And can I get an amen for seeing adult friendships consisting of texts because that's all we have time for!? Aaron is what dreams are made of. He has the biggest, most loyal heart of any of M. Mabie's male characters. And with the dual point of views, you truly get to understand both of them.
I enjoyed the book very much and it maintained that light, fun vibe that the other two books in the series had. I'll keep going back to Wynne anytime M. Mabie will take us there!
February 2, 2018
M. Mabie does it every time! I've yet to read a book by this author I haven't fallen in love with from the very first page. She's got a way of writing and developing characters that if you met in real life, you'd want to be besties with the girls or take the guys right to bed. Faith and Aaron are no different. Down to earth, realistic characters who draw you right in. Faith’s primary concern is her child, between being a mom and working two jobs, she's stretched thin. Mr. Firefighter, Aaron, secretly and from a distance does what he can to make sure Faith and Delaney are taken care of, but he's always wanted more. They have a past, a connection and there is no denying it's too strong to fight off any longer. They walked away from it before, and we see whether they have the strength to fight for it years later.
In typical M. Mabie fashion, she has just the right amount of give and take in the storyline, moves along the plot but keeps you on the seat of your pants, anticipating what the next pages will bring. This book can easily be read as a standalone, but it intertwines lightly with characters from earlier books in the series so you get to catch up with the other guys and gals in the crew. I highly recommend starting with book one only because I feel you are missing out on greatness if you don't!
In typical M. Mabie fashion, she has just the right amount of give and take in the storyline, moves along the plot but keeps you on the seat of your pants, anticipating what the next pages will bring. This book can easily be read as a standalone, but it intertwines lightly with characters from earlier books in the series so you get to catch up with the other guys and gals in the crew. I highly recommend starting with book one only because I feel you are missing out on greatness if you don't!
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