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The Buchanans #1
First Site
A love destined to blossom…
Ezra’s life is going exactly as planned. He’s a successful firefighter in the heart of Colorado, is committed to his faith and family life, and relishes exploring the outdoors in any spare time he can squeeze into his hectic schedule. Between it all, he’s busy enough to keep his mind off the one thing he’s missing: a relationship. A weeklong camping and cycling trip to the mountains with his siblings is exactly the distraction he needs.
Leila Morgan is an African-American teacher with a bucket list for summer specifically designed to force her out of her comfort zone—the indoors. With plans to go camping with her best friend, she sets out to expand her horizons…however, she meets a few obstacles along the way. And whether it be a flat tire, an injured ankle on the trail, or a midnight storm, Ezra is at the center of it all.
She never thought she’d see the mysterious but strikingly handsome man again, but here she is, seeking shelter in a neighboring trailer…which belongs to Ezra and his siblings. And after the storm destroys what little shelter she has, Leila is forced to share space with Ezra, who is more than thrilled to show her the breathtaking scenery. It’s not long before a connection sparks between them, despite Ezra’s doubts and ever-present commitment issues.
Determined to put Leila out of his mind after the trip, Ezra returns to his busy life. But, despite Leila’s absence, his attraction to her blossoms more and more with every passing moment, until his committed bachelor status is more than a little at risk.
And while commitment is scary, losing Leila is even more terrifying.
First Site is a sweet interracial romance set in the awe-inspiring world of the Colorado mountains, where love is only a camping trip away.
Book 1 in the Buchanan series.
Can be read as a stand alone.
Ezra’s life is going exactly as planned. He’s a successful firefighter in the heart of Colorado, is committed to his faith and family life, and relishes exploring the outdoors in any spare time he can squeeze into his hectic schedule. Between it all, he’s busy enough to keep his mind off the one thing he’s missing: a relationship. A weeklong camping and cycling trip to the mountains with his siblings is exactly the distraction he needs.
Leila Morgan is an African-American teacher with a bucket list for summer specifically designed to force her out of her comfort zone—the indoors. With plans to go camping with her best friend, she sets out to expand her horizons…however, she meets a few obstacles along the way. And whether it be a flat tire, an injured ankle on the trail, or a midnight storm, Ezra is at the center of it all.
She never thought she’d see the mysterious but strikingly handsome man again, but here she is, seeking shelter in a neighboring trailer…which belongs to Ezra and his siblings. And after the storm destroys what little shelter she has, Leila is forced to share space with Ezra, who is more than thrilled to show her the breathtaking scenery. It’s not long before a connection sparks between them, despite Ezra’s doubts and ever-present commitment issues.
Determined to put Leila out of his mind after the trip, Ezra returns to his busy life. But, despite Leila’s absence, his attraction to her blossoms more and more with every passing moment, until his committed bachelor status is more than a little at risk.
And while commitment is scary, losing Leila is even more terrifying.
First Site is a sweet interracial romance set in the awe-inspiring world of the Colorado mountains, where love is only a camping trip away.
Book 1 in the Buchanan series.
Can be read as a stand alone.
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 16, 2018
192 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 30, 2020
A little conflicted on this one--I really did like the characters a lot, but they confused me quite a bit with the way their thoughts seemed to spin in circles in any given scene. I won't say that's not realistic, but it does make it a bit hard to figure out whether they're making any progress toward a certain point or not. :S Also, it took quite a while to unearth what ended up being some important insecurities (particularly on Ezra's part), which made me really frustrated with the way he continued to hold back. Maybe if I'd understood more of what he was wrestling with, I would have been more sympathetic? I really did love the connection between them and the way they were together, which made me frustrated when other things got in the way.
Still 3 stars because the characters were both very sweet, which we definitely need more of. :)
Content--touching, tingling feelings, etc.; a few kisses; mentions of divorce and separation; an unmarried couple spends a night alone in a camper during a heavy rain, but they sleep in separate rooms
Still 3 stars because the characters were both very sweet, which we definitely need more of. :)
Content--touching, tingling feelings, etc.; a few kisses; mentions of divorce and separation; an unmarried couple spends a night alone in a camper during a heavy rain, but they sleep in separate rooms
November 9, 2018
The story of Ezra and Leila was really cute and I enjoyed it. However, there was a lot of extra stuff that really didn't add anything to the story. Sometimes I felt like the author was trying to reach a certain line count. The flow was a little weird and it took me a lot longer to read than I expected. This is a Christian romance and it can be heavy on the Christian aspect at times. Again, I enjoyed the romance between Ezra and Leila, but this book could have been half the length and still been a good story.
October 20, 2018
I'm afraid I didn't like the writing style in this book. There was awkward wording as if English is the second language for the writer. There was a lot of repetition making the book feel really long. I could tell that this was her first attempt at fiction though it appears she has previously written a couple nonfiction books.
I think the basic story line had good potential but it was written really heavy on the Christian themes. I have read a lot of Christian fiction and have nothing against it when incorporated well into the story but this felt to me like it was written more to teach about God than to tell a romance story. If you love a story where religion is the main focus and mentioned all the time then you might like this better than I did.
All the main characters were nice, likable people. And the set up for upcoming books with other characters was very obvious. I kept wondering why Ezra didn't understand that the whole point of dating someone is to get to know the other person and discover if you are compatible. Therefore his hesitation in having even one date with Leila was annoying to me. And why in the world didn't he use the internet to find her number when he accidentally lost it? And why hadn't he put the number into his phone right away to begin with?
No sex, language or violence
I think the basic story line had good potential but it was written really heavy on the Christian themes. I have read a lot of Christian fiction and have nothing against it when incorporated well into the story but this felt to me like it was written more to teach about God than to tell a romance story. If you love a story where religion is the main focus and mentioned all the time then you might like this better than I did.
All the main characters were nice, likable people. And the set up for upcoming books with other characters was very obvious. I kept wondering why Ezra didn't understand that the whole point of dating someone is to get to know the other person and discover if you are compatible. Therefore his hesitation in having even one date with Leila was annoying to me. And why in the world didn't he use the internet to find her number when he accidentally lost it? And why hadn't he put the number into his phone right away to begin with?
No sex, language or violence
March 21, 2022
Loved it!
Enjoyed this story from start to finish.
The characters' angst was realistic and the importance of support portrayed well.
A special treat for me was the Leila's backstory and heritage. Thank you for taking that approach, RF!
Now...any chance I could get a story for the still up and coming 45s and over who are still hoping for love,marriage and everything in between?
Enjoyed this story from start to finish.
The characters' angst was realistic and the importance of support portrayed well.
A special treat for me was the Leila's backstory and heritage. Thank you for taking that approach, RF!
Now...any chance I could get a story for the still up and coming 45s and over who are still hoping for love,marriage and everything in between?
March 24, 2019
Like a Mountain Creek
Sometimes the story flows gently, murmuring over small pebbles. Other times it roils over sharp rocks, as two very different people find their way to one another.
Fresquez is a good Christian writer.
Recommended for all readers of Christian romance.
Sometimes the story flows gently, murmuring over small pebbles. Other times it roils over sharp rocks, as two very different people find their way to one another.
Fresquez is a good Christian writer.
Recommended for all readers of Christian romance.
March 26, 2019
Sweet Read
I very much enjoyed this story by MS Fresquez. The characters were interesting , well developed and believable. Her story demonstrates that when you are a true believer, we are all in the same family of Christ no matter the color of your skin. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series. Happy writing for you MS Fresquez and happy reading for me.
Laraine
I very much enjoyed this story by MS Fresquez. The characters were interesting , well developed and believable. Her story demonstrates that when you are a true believer, we are all in the same family of Christ no matter the color of your skin. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series. Happy writing for you MS Fresquez and happy reading for me.
Laraine
March 26, 2019
☺☺☺☺
This is a romance with a strong element of faith, while the interracial element is really fairly light. Ezra and Leila are likeable and relatable, and the slow journey to commitment is well told. If the prose flowed.more smoothly this would be a five star review.
This is a romance with a strong element of faith, while the interracial element is really fairly light. Ezra and Leila are likeable and relatable, and the slow journey to commitment is well told. If the prose flowed.more smoothly this would be a five star review.
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March 23, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/23/2019)! 🎁
November 28, 2018
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. And while it was an enjoyable light read, it is very realistic and true to life. This story includes real life challenges along the way which I personally like. .
In this story you will meet Ezra and Leila. As they cross each other’s paths, there is an obvious attraction but there are several barriers to a relationship developing, not the least of which is racial. Besides both of them have determined that they are not cut out for dating. So will anything become of their attraction? Get a copy and find out.
Lastly I love how this author tackled the interracial element. This is not a common theme in books. Nicely done.
In this story you will meet Ezra and Leila. As they cross each other’s paths, there is an obvious attraction but there are several barriers to a relationship developing, not the least of which is racial. Besides both of them have determined that they are not cut out for dating. So will anything become of their attraction? Get a copy and find out.
Lastly I love how this author tackled the interracial element. This is not a common theme in books. Nicely done.
March 25, 2019
This was a lovely, sweet story. The novel focuses on Ezra and Leila, who fall 'in love' on a camping trip. Although their attraction is instantaneous, will anything come of it?
I enjoyed this novel for the most part. I loved the setting, and the characters were nice. The story is slow-paced, and is perfect for a light read. Although it is a light read, there were some good faith elements.
Overall, I would recommend this novel if you are looking for a sweet, clean read.
I enjoyed this novel for the most part. I loved the setting, and the characters were nice. The story is slow-paced, and is perfect for a light read. Although it is a light read, there were some good faith elements.
Overall, I would recommend this novel if you are looking for a sweet, clean read.
October 15, 2018
It was a nice sweet romance. I liked that it was an interracial romance.
March 9, 2019
Excellent romantic book with a
Christian flair! This book was very realistic and well written.....was very intriguing, and I had a hard time laying the book down!
Christian flair! This book was very realistic and well written.....was very intriguing, and I had a hard time laying the book down!
January 1, 2019
I chose to read and review this book. I liked this one. I found it to a very sweet romantic one to read. Nice plot and characters. Everything was well written.
July 1, 2024
This book was alright. There was a lot of things that I enjoyed and a few I didn’t enjoy. I will start with something I enjoyed; I really loved all the god mentioning, Bible verses, and the word being put into action. It really added to the book and it is something missing in today’s society with how books are going these days, so yes really enjoyed that. I also enjoyed the characters.
Some things I didn’t enjoy is the pacing like saying I love you, their proposal, and their encounters and relationship. I think they went too fast given they only saw each other a handful of times. I just feel like they should’ve seen each other more before saying I love you and the proposal was just too fast in my opinion. I think there was a lot of filler in the book and it could’ve been shorter. And there wasn’t enough conflict. Most of it came in the end of the book I wish it was spaced out a bit.
Another thing I wish there was more of was Ezra fighting fires, his work life. I think it would’ve added more fun scenes and or maybe him saving her from a fire. I also feel like the author summarized too much that I actually wanted to see. I wish there was more dialogue.
Overall, interesting book! Although it took me a bit to read it I enjoyed it.
Some things I didn’t enjoy is the pacing like saying I love you, their proposal, and their encounters and relationship. I think they went too fast given they only saw each other a handful of times. I just feel like they should’ve seen each other more before saying I love you and the proposal was just too fast in my opinion. I think there was a lot of filler in the book and it could’ve been shorter. And there wasn’t enough conflict. Most of it came in the end of the book I wish it was spaced out a bit.
Another thing I wish there was more of was Ezra fighting fires, his work life. I think it would’ve added more fun scenes and or maybe him saving her from a fire. I also feel like the author summarized too much that I actually wanted to see. I wish there was more dialogue.
Overall, interesting book! Although it took me a bit to read it I enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2018
Show me, don't tell me
I felt that there wasn't enough dialogue to move the story along. There were great descriptions of the scenery and activities, but that doesn't really move to characters into falling in love.
This book was riddled with grammatical errors! I couldn't take it any more.
I really wanted to finish this book because the premise of the novel sounded intriguing. The religious aspects of the characters resonated with me. I finally closed the book after getting only 70% through because of the typos and the slow to develop plot.
For instance, the second kiss that Ezra and Leila share (the first being a tender kiss on the hand), seemed way to risque and out of character. I mean kissing her neck! Really?!? There wasn't any build up. That came way outta left field.
I do feel that this author has talent and tremendous potential, but this book could use another edit. This author may be destined to blossom, but needs a bit more TLC and pruning to get there.
On a steaminess level I would rate this a PG.
I felt that there wasn't enough dialogue to move the story along. There were great descriptions of the scenery and activities, but that doesn't really move to characters into falling in love.
This book was riddled with grammatical errors! I couldn't take it any more.
I really wanted to finish this book because the premise of the novel sounded intriguing. The religious aspects of the characters resonated with me. I finally closed the book after getting only 70% through because of the typos and the slow to develop plot.
For instance, the second kiss that Ezra and Leila share (the first being a tender kiss on the hand), seemed way to risque and out of character. I mean kissing her neck! Really?!? There wasn't any build up. That came way outta left field.
I do feel that this author has talent and tremendous potential, but this book could use another edit. This author may be destined to blossom, but needs a bit more TLC and pruning to get there.
On a steaminess level I would rate this a PG.
August 13, 2020
Very interesting and timely
This is the very first book I've read about an interracial couple, actually, the first one I've noticed! Many years ago we had a couple of black couples as very close friends but that was because my husband was in the service and all our friends were, too! That is a totally different life from how we grew up and the life we returned to. I've never even known an interracial couple. So, I read the book out of curiosity! With all the "Black lives matter" protests, you have to stop and think about all the disparities that exist! Some of my own grandchildren have a father with a racially mixed heritage, therefore, I'm much more aware of how the bigotry and racial injustice affects all of us! We need to put a stop to it, to acknowledge that we are all human beings and should all be treated as equals.
This is the very first book I've read about an interracial couple, actually, the first one I've noticed! Many years ago we had a couple of black couples as very close friends but that was because my husband was in the service and all our friends were, too! That is a totally different life from how we grew up and the life we returned to. I've never even known an interracial couple. So, I read the book out of curiosity! With all the "Black lives matter" protests, you have to stop and think about all the disparities that exist! Some of my own grandchildren have a father with a racially mixed heritage, therefore, I'm much more aware of how the bigotry and racial injustice affects all of us! We need to put a stop to it, to acknowledge that we are all human beings and should all be treated as equals.
January 21, 2019
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the idea of this book but it was only ok. I would have thought that with her seeing his jeep and commenting on it, she would have noticed it when it was parked near the campsite. There were some really cute parts and I liked that they bonded in the great outdoors and had lots of fun. I liked that she was willing to try new things and have new adventures. I also really liked how she became friends with the sister. I didn't like how long the book was. I think that the front part with his work could have been cut out or shortened and then ending as well could have been shortened. It was a clean book with no bad language and no sex. I probably won't read this book again.
I liked the idea of this book but it was only ok. I would have thought that with her seeing his jeep and commenting on it, she would have noticed it when it was parked near the campsite. There were some really cute parts and I liked that they bonded in the great outdoors and had lots of fun. I liked that she was willing to try new things and have new adventures. I also really liked how she became friends with the sister. I didn't like how long the book was. I think that the front part with his work could have been cut out or shortened and then ending as well could have been shortened. It was a clean book with no bad language and no sex. I probably won't read this book again.
February 21, 2021
I really enjoyed getting to know Leila & Ezra as individuals & then watching as their relationship developed. It is so refreshing to read a romantic story about a Christian couple.
The story was engaging & joyful not sterile & “high & mighty “ just because it has a Christian focus. It was nice to read about Ezra & Leila holding hands & kissing & it not leading to sex. Rosie Fresquez , did a good job of showing a man & women from different backgrounds find a common ground in their faith & worked together to honor God in their relationship.
The story was engaging & joyful not sterile & “high & mighty “ just because it has a Christian focus. It was nice to read about Ezra & Leila holding hands & kissing & it not leading to sex. Rosie Fresquez , did a good job of showing a man & women from different backgrounds find a common ground in their faith & worked together to honor God in their relationship.
May 8, 2019
This is a good clean book.
Ezra is a firefighter who is happy being single. He's on his way to go camping with his family.
Leila is a teacher with a bucket list. One thing on her list: camping.
They meet at a gas station where her car is down with a flat tire. Fireman to the rescue. Attraction is there, but they go their separate ways never expecting to see each other again.
But God had other plans...
Ezra is a firefighter who is happy being single. He's on his way to go camping with his family.
Leila is a teacher with a bucket list. One thing on her list: camping.
They meet at a gas station where her car is down with a flat tire. Fireman to the rescue. Attraction is there, but they go their separate ways never expecting to see each other again.
But God had other plans...
September 27, 2020
Loved!
It was a little at first but I loved the chemistry between Ezra and Leila. I really loved that fact that this story is centered around For and it tells you that God really works in mysterious ways. If God is before you me, who can stand against me, some many obstacles were throw in their way but they held onto their faith in God and each other. Very sweet story.
It was a little at first but I loved the chemistry between Ezra and Leila. I really loved that fact that this story is centered around For and it tells you that God really works in mysterious ways. If God is before you me, who can stand against me, some many obstacles were throw in their way but they held onto their faith in God and each other. Very sweet story.
April 22, 2022
A sweet story of Ezra and Leila. It was fun to see them realize who the other was and then getting to know each other. The sweet love story not to be crushed by the difference in their skin tones.
I loved the faith elements that were also a part of the story.
I received a free copy of this audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
I loved the faith elements that were also a part of the story.
I received a free copy of this audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
November 24, 2025
I have been craving sweet romances, where the characters like each other from the get go and there isn't a whole lot of drama.
This book hit the spot. It's not the most exciting or memorable read. but sometimes you just want cotton candy even if it doesn't stick with you.
Recommended? sure. It's sweet, faith filled and low key.
Buy/Borrow? Borrow
This book hit the spot. It's not the most exciting or memorable read. but sometimes you just want cotton candy even if it doesn't stick with you.
Recommended? sure. It's sweet, faith filled and low key.
Buy/Borrow? Borrow
December 16, 2018
This was an easy fast read for me, a bit choppy. I liked Ezra, even when he was being ridiculous. Typical miscommunications pop up, but I really liked the two of them and how much they loved exploring the outdoors together. A clean Christian read.
May 10, 2019
Likable characters and good, realistic dialogue. It is a nice, sweet romance. I recommend it for young girls and anyone who likes romances with a Christian theme. I like that it is Christian, and it features realistic couples in a bicultural setting. It is also part of a series.
June 2, 2020
Loved it!
A sweet, hot (pun intended) story by a new to me author who happens to be a cousin to a precious friend. Ezra and Leila are an adorable couple with a fun story. Definitely reminds me to always ask for clarity before jumping to conclusions.
A sweet, hot (pun intended) story by a new to me author who happens to be a cousin to a precious friend. Ezra and Leila are an adorable couple with a fun story. Definitely reminds me to always ask for clarity before jumping to conclusions.
July 17, 2020
Love at first sight can really happen?
I really liked this book. This couple learned to try the things that each other liked. The Lord was at the center of everything they did. Very well done!
I really liked this book. This couple learned to try the things that each other liked. The Lord was at the center of everything they did. Very well done!
January 9, 2021
I loved the premise of this story, teacher and firefighter fall in love on a camping trip. But there were small ways that the story struggled a bit for me, here and there. I found though, it was a cute read.
November 20, 2021
Sweet
Leila keeps running into Ezra. She first meets him at the gas station , then while camping. They start something but then he gets scared, so it stops and starts again. Obstacles keep getting in the way. Can they make it work?
Leila keeps running into Ezra. She first meets him at the gas station , then while camping. They start something but then he gets scared, so it stops and starts again. Obstacles keep getting in the way. Can they make it work?
May 6, 2022
Communication is key!
This book is a great reminder of how important honest and clear communication is. Misunderstanding and miscommunication can damage the best of relationships.
I love the way the characters proclaimed their faith and held each other accountable.
This book is a great reminder of how important honest and clear communication is. Misunderstanding and miscommunication can damage the best of relationships.
I love the way the characters proclaimed their faith and held each other accountable.
December 28, 2023
A clean romance and wonderful story. Of loves ups and downs.
I choose this book because of a review that it's wholesome. I was pleasantly surprised by the book yet loved the story.
I choose this book because of a review that it's wholesome. I was pleasantly surprised by the book yet loved the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews