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Blessings, Georgia #7
Forever My Hero
#1 New York Times Bestselling Author for A Piece of My Heart
Every storm they've weathered...has led them to each other
Dan Amos lost his wife and son years ago, when they inadvertently got in the way of a death threat meant for him. He's never had eyes for anyone since, and he doesn't want to. But fellow Blessings resident Alice Conroy sparks something inside him...
Newly widowed, Alice was disillusioned by marriage and isn't looking to fall in love anytime soon. Then a tropical storm blazes a path straight for the Georgia coast, and as the town prepares for the worst, Dan opens his heart and his home. The tempest is raging, but Alice and Dan are learning to find shelter...in each other.
Blessings, Georgia Series:
You and Only You (Book 1)
I'll Stand by You (Book 2)
Saving Jake (Book 3)
A Piece of My Heart (Book 4)
The Color of Love (Book 5)
Come Back to Me (Book 6)
Forever My Hero (Book 7)
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2019
715 people are currently reading
569 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Sala
280 books2,305 followersBiography
Sharon Sala is a Native Oklahoman and still lives within a two hour drive of where she was born.
First published in 1991, she is a New York Times/USA Today, best-selling author with a 135 plus books published in seven different genres, including Romantic suspense, Mystery, Young Adult, Western, Fiction, Women’s Fiction and Non-Fiction.
Industry Awards include:
Eight-time RITA finalist. (Romance Industry award)
The Janet Dailey Award.
Five-time Career Achievement winner from RT Magazine.
Five time winner of the National Reader’s Choice Award.
Five time winner of the Colorado Romance Writer’s Award of Excellence.
Heart of Excellence Award.,
Booksellers Best Award.
Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award RITA, presented by RWA.
Centennial Award from RWA for recognition of her 100th published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
February 26, 2019
Release Date: February 26, 2019
Genre: Contemporary (Sweet, Southern, Small Town) Romance
Actual Rating: 5 stars
This is one of my very favorite series EVER. Sharon Sala has brought Blessings, Georgia and the characters to life! If there were ever a fictional town I would want to live in it would be here. This book is absolutely BEAUTIFUL. It's a story of a strong single mom and the wounded man that saves her. This isn't in the traditional sense of woman in trouble and needing rescuing. The saving is taking place in her heart and allowing her to find love again after he husband dies in a tragic accident. I won't say what happened to him but if you read the previous books in the series you will know what I am talking about. This is Alice and Dan's story. Please note, this book is a complete standalone. All of the books in the series can standalone. But they are interconnected so you will recognize characters from previous books throughout the series.
If you are a small town, southern romance lover this is a must read series for you. I greedily devour all the books in the series and have loved every single one that I have read (I am still making my way through some of the earlier books in the series). Also, this is a sweeter romance series. The books don't have a lot of sex in them (maybe a scene or two) and mostly consist of falling in love without it. Finally, the series/books don't only focus on the primary characters but those throughout the town as well. Readers will easily feel as if they are able to get to know all the people of Blessings when reading it. I loved it!
Genre: Contemporary (Sweet, Southern, Small Town) Romance
Actual Rating: 5 stars
This is one of my very favorite series EVER. Sharon Sala has brought Blessings, Georgia and the characters to life! If there were ever a fictional town I would want to live in it would be here. This book is absolutely BEAUTIFUL. It's a story of a strong single mom and the wounded man that saves her. This isn't in the traditional sense of woman in trouble and needing rescuing. The saving is taking place in her heart and allowing her to find love again after he husband dies in a tragic accident. I won't say what happened to him but if you read the previous books in the series you will know what I am talking about. This is Alice and Dan's story. Please note, this book is a complete standalone. All of the books in the series can standalone. But they are interconnected so you will recognize characters from previous books throughout the series.
If you are a small town, southern romance lover this is a must read series for you. I greedily devour all the books in the series and have loved every single one that I have read (I am still making my way through some of the earlier books in the series). Also, this is a sweeter romance series. The books don't have a lot of sex in them (maybe a scene or two) and mostly consist of falling in love without it. Finally, the series/books don't only focus on the primary characters but those throughout the town as well. Readers will easily feel as if they are able to get to know all the people of Blessings when reading it. I loved it!
March 9, 2019
Back in small town Blessings, Georgia, where a town staggers under the force of a hurricane and other lesser events leading to pain, loss, healing, hope, and love for those who call this little place home. This was a second chances romance for a pair of people who experienced their fair share of loss and I was all in, cheering them on to finding their happy.
Forever My Hero is the seventh book in the Blessings, Georgia series. The characters are not exactly brand new, but their story is so this could be read standalone or out of order in a pinch. There are a lot of times that characters from previous books and even a sense that this one is connected to earlier events are present so I recommend starting from the beginning.
Alice and her children are finally back on their feet after her drug-addicted husband blew up their home with him in it and his angry family dumped her and her children into the middle of Blessings, destitute. Several in the town helped them survive and now she has a good job and a little breathing room. She even starts to enjoy it when handsome Dan Amos comes into the hardware for tools and materials to keep up all the rental properties he manages.
Dan, who lost his wife and and son, when a criminal tried to kill him in a car bomb and got them instead, is finally in a place where he can still feel his loss and yet look forward to life again particularly if it has Alice in it. When she is injured at work, he has the opportunity to come to her assistance, but when her daughter goes missing and then a hurricane hits, he becomes her hero.
This was a gently-paced heartwarming story. Dan and Alice are at the center of it all, but there are other stories swirling around them like Elliot the artist being attacked and nearly killed, the daring rescues during the hurricane, what eventually happens with Alice's in laws, and the family of the man that attack's Elliot. There is a sweet quality and an interwoven feel to the whole thing as it hops from head to head (and, yes, that was distracting). But, it also made me feel like I was getting the story of a town as a whole as they work together to survive and recover from a hurricane.
The romance was sweet and felt like a friends to lovers as it developed. Dan is so good with Alice's teenage son and young daughter. It broke my heart that the little girl endured bullying because of the gossip about her family. I loved that Dan was there to help rescue them which helped him heal after he couldn't save his first family. Dan and Alice were up front about their feelings and didn't dink around. They talked through what they wanted and I loved that. So, good together.
All in all, this was one to curl up with on a cold afternoon and fall easily into the story set in the lovely community of Blessings. Those who enjoy gentle contemporary romances about people needing to catch a break and have their happily ever after with a pinch of spice should give this small town romance series a try.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Forever My Hero is the seventh book in the Blessings, Georgia series. The characters are not exactly brand new, but their story is so this could be read standalone or out of order in a pinch. There are a lot of times that characters from previous books and even a sense that this one is connected to earlier events are present so I recommend starting from the beginning.
Alice and her children are finally back on their feet after her drug-addicted husband blew up their home with him in it and his angry family dumped her and her children into the middle of Blessings, destitute. Several in the town helped them survive and now she has a good job and a little breathing room. She even starts to enjoy it when handsome Dan Amos comes into the hardware for tools and materials to keep up all the rental properties he manages.
Dan, who lost his wife and and son, when a criminal tried to kill him in a car bomb and got them instead, is finally in a place where he can still feel his loss and yet look forward to life again particularly if it has Alice in it. When she is injured at work, he has the opportunity to come to her assistance, but when her daughter goes missing and then a hurricane hits, he becomes her hero.
This was a gently-paced heartwarming story. Dan and Alice are at the center of it all, but there are other stories swirling around them like Elliot the artist being attacked and nearly killed, the daring rescues during the hurricane, what eventually happens with Alice's in laws, and the family of the man that attack's Elliot. There is a sweet quality and an interwoven feel to the whole thing as it hops from head to head (and, yes, that was distracting). But, it also made me feel like I was getting the story of a town as a whole as they work together to survive and recover from a hurricane.
The romance was sweet and felt like a friends to lovers as it developed. Dan is so good with Alice's teenage son and young daughter. It broke my heart that the little girl endured bullying because of the gossip about her family. I loved that Dan was there to help rescue them which helped him heal after he couldn't save his first family. Dan and Alice were up front about their feelings and didn't dink around. They talked through what they wanted and I loved that. So, good together.
All in all, this was one to curl up with on a cold afternoon and fall easily into the story set in the lovely community of Blessings. Those who enjoy gentle contemporary romances about people needing to catch a break and have their happily ever after with a pinch of spice should give this small town romance series a try.
My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2019
I did NOT enjoy this book. So much of it seemed so pious and Christian oriented but then a couple jumped into bed together before they even had a single date! Then she moved in with her children before they were married. Neither would be that big a deal but the tone of the book seemed at opposition to the character's actions and I found it off-putting.
I also thought characters overreacted to things - an ambulance ride for a cut hand? Someone passing out and screaming in agony and the threat of death for a broken arm? Three families terrified of a lawsuit for defamation of character from a lady who works in a hardware store? It would be pretty difficult to show loss of income for much of that - certainly not enough for 3 families to act the way they did.
The way Alice acted towards her in-laws at the very end of the book was terrible too. At the beginning of the book you're hit with so many characters at once and you don't know how they have anything to do with each other (many of them don't) was overwhelming too (it may have helped if you had read the rest of the series but as a stand-alone book this was a big problem).
All in all, I don't know how it has such a high approval rating but I just didn't care for it.
I also thought characters overreacted to things - an ambulance ride for a cut hand? Someone passing out and screaming in agony and the threat of death for a broken arm? Three families terrified of a lawsuit for defamation of character from a lady who works in a hardware store? It would be pretty difficult to show loss of income for much of that - certainly not enough for 3 families to act the way they did.
The way Alice acted towards her in-laws at the very end of the book was terrible too. At the beginning of the book you're hit with so many characters at once and you don't know how they have anything to do with each other (many of them don't) was overwhelming too (it may have helped if you had read the rest of the series but as a stand-alone book this was a big problem).
All in all, I don't know how it has such a high approval rating but I just didn't care for it.
January 30, 2019
I love this series - it is a sweet romance series that touches my heart each time I read one of the books. This book focused on newcomer Dan Amos and Alice Conroy. Both have had tragedy in their lives but that made their union even that much sweeter.
Blessings GA is in for a rough ride as a hurricane is on its way and the town is right in its the path. While no one is safe from this national disaster it was nice to see how the citizens of this town come together to help each other when all was said and done. There are several that discovered that the path they were on was going to lead to their downfall and righted their path once they realized they did not like who they were becoming.
While the story focused on Dan and Alice, there was no shortage of other characters you will remember from the other books.
Usually I have an idea of who the next book might be about but I have no idea who to expect the focus to be on in the next installment. Maybe Lovey, the owner of Granny's diner. She ran into some problems in this book from the hurricane but thankfully has the whole town plus Ruby and Peanut to help her out.
Blessings GA is in for a rough ride as a hurricane is on its way and the town is right in its the path. While no one is safe from this national disaster it was nice to see how the citizens of this town come together to help each other when all was said and done. There are several that discovered that the path they were on was going to lead to their downfall and righted their path once they realized they did not like who they were becoming.
While the story focused on Dan and Alice, there was no shortage of other characters you will remember from the other books.
Usually I have an idea of who the next book might be about but I have no idea who to expect the focus to be on in the next installment. Maybe Lovey, the owner of Granny's diner. She ran into some problems in this book from the hurricane but thankfully has the whole town plus Ruby and Peanut to help her out.
March 16, 2019
My Review
The small town of Blessings, Georgia is the setting for a sweet contemporary story from award-winning author Sharon Sala.
This is the first book I’ve read in this series but had no trouble connecting with the characters and their fascinating lives. I enjoyed learning about Alice Conroy, her children and dog, Booger.
The drama came from an impending hurricane and the preparations the town takes to ensure the safety of its citizens.
Excessive head-hopping drew me out of the story here and there, but otherwise an enjoyable read.
I give Forever My Hero 4 lovely kisses- a good second-chance romance!
Sending a thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this story.
The small town of Blessings, Georgia is the setting for a sweet contemporary story from award-winning author Sharon Sala.
This is the first book I’ve read in this series but had no trouble connecting with the characters and their fascinating lives. I enjoyed learning about Alice Conroy, her children and dog, Booger.
The drama came from an impending hurricane and the preparations the town takes to ensure the safety of its citizens.
Excessive head-hopping drew me out of the story here and there, but otherwise an enjoyable read.
I give Forever My Hero 4 lovely kisses- a good second-chance romance!
Sending a thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this story.
May 22, 2019
AudioBook Review
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4
There’s a hurricane menacing the small town of Blessings, and everyone is frantically working to ensure their own (and their neighbors) survival and safety. Like small towns everywhere, Blessings has its own cast of ‘characters’ who appear regularly and add that sense of community and constancy to the series, even as they also reinforce the ‘everyone knows your business’ vibe. And that’s not unusual for this little town, it seems to be a place where the grieving and wounded come to heal, and often they find more than simple hope and peace here. Such is the case for the couple highlighted in this story. Dan came to Blessings and left his high-powered legal career in the rear-view mirror when his wife and son were killed in a car bomb meant for him. He’s not interested in relationships, and while his own sense of honor (and job as a property manager) won’t allow him to remove himself from the day-to-day interactions, he’s determined to keep them superficial. He’s not going to have someone he loves ripped away from him again. Surprisingly, a bomb played a large part in Alice’s relocation to Blessing with her children. Her dead husband blew up their house (it was an accident of his own making) and his family dumped her and the children in the town. After her years with his addictions, while arriving penniless and homeless with children in a new town wasn’t ideal, it was a chance for her to ‘make up’ for their early lives and point them all toward a new future. With a job in the local hardware store and the kids settling in to school and friends, she’s got reason to be thankful that Blessings was the end of the journey with her former in-laws, and things are starting to look up. She’s not really interested in anther relationship, but Dan is intriguing and their friendly interactions when he comes to the store make her smile.
The hurricane (and Alice’s injury) bring them closer together than one would expect, and the friends to more vibe is strong. Of course, it’s a small town and the gossip is rife, resulting in Alice’s daughter being bullied at school, and the kids are still feeling the loss of their father and the terrible way in which they came to town. Here is where Dan seems to excel – not pushing but allowing them their moments to ‘feel’ everything that confuses them, angers them and even gives them the space and place to feel without worrying what others will think. What emerges is Dan making the ‘moves’ to rescue Alice and her family from the dangers around them (hurricane, in-laws and bullies) when he wasn’t able to save his own. And Alice, despite her determination to make it on her own, is intrigued and sees the possibilities, even if she’s not sure she’s interested. Fortunately for them both (and the story) Alice is upfront about her concerns, desires and dreams - forcing Dan to do the same and honestly discuss the possibilities and their growing attraction. With several insets from other characters that are familiar from earlier books, a bunch of moments where breath is held and outcomes aren’t always clear, the story provides a realistic-feeling path to a second chance for them both. A bit over-reliant on head-hopping that isn’t always clearly delineated, it frequently took a few lines before a moment was ‘clear’, but overall, this fits the mold that Sala has created for this series.
Narration for this story is provided by Amy Rubinate, and I was pleasantly surprised to note the improvement in the quality and performance. Having first encountered her work some four years ago, I was encouraged by positive reviews and grabbed this title. This turned out to be a solid choice, her flow has improved, the story is clearly leading the way as she moves seamlessly between characters and moments. Voices had solid tone and delivery variations to note different characters, and she allowed the emotion of the moment to take over, never over-emphasizing emotion. The story flowed and presented an engaging listen, as her performance enhanced the story and allowed it to unfold as I listened.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4
There’s a hurricane menacing the small town of Blessings, and everyone is frantically working to ensure their own (and their neighbors) survival and safety. Like small towns everywhere, Blessings has its own cast of ‘characters’ who appear regularly and add that sense of community and constancy to the series, even as they also reinforce the ‘everyone knows your business’ vibe. And that’s not unusual for this little town, it seems to be a place where the grieving and wounded come to heal, and often they find more than simple hope and peace here. Such is the case for the couple highlighted in this story. Dan came to Blessings and left his high-powered legal career in the rear-view mirror when his wife and son were killed in a car bomb meant for him. He’s not interested in relationships, and while his own sense of honor (and job as a property manager) won’t allow him to remove himself from the day-to-day interactions, he’s determined to keep them superficial. He’s not going to have someone he loves ripped away from him again. Surprisingly, a bomb played a large part in Alice’s relocation to Blessing with her children. Her dead husband blew up their house (it was an accident of his own making) and his family dumped her and the children in the town. After her years with his addictions, while arriving penniless and homeless with children in a new town wasn’t ideal, it was a chance for her to ‘make up’ for their early lives and point them all toward a new future. With a job in the local hardware store and the kids settling in to school and friends, she’s got reason to be thankful that Blessings was the end of the journey with her former in-laws, and things are starting to look up. She’s not really interested in anther relationship, but Dan is intriguing and their friendly interactions when he comes to the store make her smile.
The hurricane (and Alice’s injury) bring them closer together than one would expect, and the friends to more vibe is strong. Of course, it’s a small town and the gossip is rife, resulting in Alice’s daughter being bullied at school, and the kids are still feeling the loss of their father and the terrible way in which they came to town. Here is where Dan seems to excel – not pushing but allowing them their moments to ‘feel’ everything that confuses them, angers them and even gives them the space and place to feel without worrying what others will think. What emerges is Dan making the ‘moves’ to rescue Alice and her family from the dangers around them (hurricane, in-laws and bullies) when he wasn’t able to save his own. And Alice, despite her determination to make it on her own, is intrigued and sees the possibilities, even if she’s not sure she’s interested. Fortunately for them both (and the story) Alice is upfront about her concerns, desires and dreams - forcing Dan to do the same and honestly discuss the possibilities and their growing attraction. With several insets from other characters that are familiar from earlier books, a bunch of moments where breath is held and outcomes aren’t always clear, the story provides a realistic-feeling path to a second chance for them both. A bit over-reliant on head-hopping that isn’t always clearly delineated, it frequently took a few lines before a moment was ‘clear’, but overall, this fits the mold that Sala has created for this series.
Narration for this story is provided by Amy Rubinate, and I was pleasantly surprised to note the improvement in the quality and performance. Having first encountered her work some four years ago, I was encouraged by positive reviews and grabbed this title. This turned out to be a solid choice, her flow has improved, the story is clearly leading the way as she moves seamlessly between characters and moments. Voices had solid tone and delivery variations to note different characters, and she allowed the emotion of the moment to take over, never over-emphasizing emotion. The story flowed and presented an engaging listen, as her performance enhanced the story and allowed it to unfold as I listened.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Tantor Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
July 14, 2020
Batten down the hatches, a hurricane is on its way and landfall is supposed to be just south of Blessings. With everyone preparing for shelter during the hurricane, Dan and Alice end up spending a few days together with her children and a neighbour. Alice and Dan have had a friendly relationship with both of them losing their spouses in explosions. They are tiptoeing around their burgeoning feelings but with the hurricane it all come to the forefront.
This story was great. There were a few story lines that didn't seem to fit together, but Sharon Sala does a great job of weaving it all together by the end. There are some drug dealers, Alice's husband's family and their issues, an injured man and people requiring rescue during the hurricane. It is all rather exciting, which was different from the previous books in this series, but still quite good. Once again, I enjoyed the sweet romance that develops, the small town atmosphere, the friendships and interactions with characters I have grown to love and the well developed plot. Another winner in this series.
This story was great. There were a few story lines that didn't seem to fit together, but Sharon Sala does a great job of weaving it all together by the end. There are some drug dealers, Alice's husband's family and their issues, an injured man and people requiring rescue during the hurricane. It is all rather exciting, which was different from the previous books in this series, but still quite good. Once again, I enjoyed the sweet romance that develops, the small town atmosphere, the friendships and interactions with characters I have grown to love and the well developed plot. Another winner in this series.
March 18, 2020
I thought there was too much crammed into this book. Wish i could have given it 3.5 instead of 4. It was very well written with the most drama yet. In fact, so much, I had a hard time keeping up with what was happening to each character.
Ms Sala is very good with descriptions. I could actually see pictures from TV when she was talking about the hurricane.
I really enjoyed Alice! My kinda girl! Very blunt but also very polite while telling someone exactly how she feels.
In order to keep up, you must read the series in order, but so far, this is my least favorite due to the drama.
Ms Sala is very good with descriptions. I could actually see pictures from TV when she was talking about the hurricane.
I really enjoyed Alice! My kinda girl! Very blunt but also very polite while telling someone exactly how she feels.
In order to keep up, you must read the series in order, but so far, this is my least favorite due to the drama.
March 18, 2019
I’m not sure where to start with this one.
I have a policy of giving a new-to-me reader at least two reads before writing them off. Even my favorite authors write books that aren’t my favorite, so I feel it’s only fair to give an author a second read even if I wasn’t crazy about the first read. Especially if, on the surface, it should be a book - or a series - that I will enjoy. And being that I’m a big fan of multi-character, small town romances, this Blessings, Georgia series should be right up my alley.
Except it isn’t.
Dan Amos left his high-powered job as a Dallas lawyer when his wife and son were the victims of a car bomb meant for him. He moved to the quiet, peaceful southern town of Blessings, Georgia and works as a property manager, overseeing the needs of multiple rental properties.
Alice Conroy lost her husband, also in an explosion - only that one was of his own making. To make matters worse (as if your husband blowing up your house isn’t bad enough as it is), her husband’s family packed them up with only the clothes on their backs and dropped them on a corner in Blessings. It’s been a rough year, but Alice has a good job at the hardware store, and her children are settling into school. Things are looking up for her, and her new-found - and mutual - attraction with Dan is unexpected, but not unwanted.
And if this book had focused on Dan, Alice, and her children, I may have liked it more. Instead we get a whole cacophony of storylines that felt like a jumbled mess, with too many things happening to too many residents and none of them getting adequate time to do justice to their part of the book. There’s an odd juxtaposition in this idyllic town where everyone is nice, and kind, and watches out for everyone, but all these terrible things keep happening (good grief, four people die in explosions!). We start out with marijuana growers who try to kill an old man, move to mean girls and a perilous situation, and to top it off there’s a hurricane and several people have more dramatic things happen to them than just the effects of the hurricane. It was exhausting to read so many storylines, when all I really wanted to read about were the hero and heroine. Forever My Hero could have an alternate title: Everyone Has Something Terrible Happen and No One Catches A Break.
Part of my issue may be that this is book seven and I’ve only also read book six. I’m not invested in these characters, and it’s hard to keep track of them all. But it was especially difficult in this book to get to know anyone better, where it seemed the author couldn’t decide who she wanted to focus on, or whether she wanted to be writing a mystery, a suspense, or a romance.
So I have a decision to make...do I keep reading Sharon Sala and the Blessings, Georgia series because it should be something I enjoy, or do I make a judgement based on the two I read (and didn’t enjoy at all)? Sadly, I think I’m going to move on. Sometimes an author just isn’t your cup of tea. And that’s okay.
* thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I have a policy of giving a new-to-me reader at least two reads before writing them off. Even my favorite authors write books that aren’t my favorite, so I feel it’s only fair to give an author a second read even if I wasn’t crazy about the first read. Especially if, on the surface, it should be a book - or a series - that I will enjoy. And being that I’m a big fan of multi-character, small town romances, this Blessings, Georgia series should be right up my alley.
Except it isn’t.
Dan Amos left his high-powered job as a Dallas lawyer when his wife and son were the victims of a car bomb meant for him. He moved to the quiet, peaceful southern town of Blessings, Georgia and works as a property manager, overseeing the needs of multiple rental properties.
Alice Conroy lost her husband, also in an explosion - only that one was of his own making. To make matters worse (as if your husband blowing up your house isn’t bad enough as it is), her husband’s family packed them up with only the clothes on their backs and dropped them on a corner in Blessings. It’s been a rough year, but Alice has a good job at the hardware store, and her children are settling into school. Things are looking up for her, and her new-found - and mutual - attraction with Dan is unexpected, but not unwanted.
And if this book had focused on Dan, Alice, and her children, I may have liked it more. Instead we get a whole cacophony of storylines that felt like a jumbled mess, with too many things happening to too many residents and none of them getting adequate time to do justice to their part of the book. There’s an odd juxtaposition in this idyllic town where everyone is nice, and kind, and watches out for everyone, but all these terrible things keep happening (good grief, four people die in explosions!). We start out with marijuana growers who try to kill an old man, move to mean girls and a perilous situation, and to top it off there’s a hurricane and several people have more dramatic things happen to them than just the effects of the hurricane. It was exhausting to read so many storylines, when all I really wanted to read about were the hero and heroine. Forever My Hero could have an alternate title: Everyone Has Something Terrible Happen and No One Catches A Break.
Part of my issue may be that this is book seven and I’ve only also read book six. I’m not invested in these characters, and it’s hard to keep track of them all. But it was especially difficult in this book to get to know anyone better, where it seemed the author couldn’t decide who she wanted to focus on, or whether she wanted to be writing a mystery, a suspense, or a romance.
So I have a decision to make...do I keep reading Sharon Sala and the Blessings, Georgia series because it should be something I enjoy, or do I make a judgement based on the two I read (and didn’t enjoy at all)? Sadly, I think I’m going to move on. Sometimes an author just isn’t your cup of tea. And that’s okay.
* thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
February 13, 2019
3.5 Stars
This is the seventh book in the Blessings, Georgia series by Ms. Sala. when I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, I eagerly accepted since I’d read the previous books and enjoyed them. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.
I quickly became vested in the characters and the plot. The pacing is good and there was no sagging middle, which is a very good thing. One thing I did find disconcerting was a lot of head hopping. sometimes from one sentence to the next. that is the main reason I gave this book a little lower rating.
Alice is a wonderful heroine with all the characteristics I most admire. She has a fearless spirit, and while she has great reason to want to give up, she does not. She is an amazing mother, fiercely protective of her children, determined to give them the best. Although, she had a rough marriage with her late husband, she is willing to open her heart to love again.
Dan is a great hero. he is an honorable guy who doesn’t allow his tragic past to color his view of the world. I liked the way he looks out for others, including Alice. I truly admired him a great deal and wanted him to find his happy ending.
The romance between the hero and heroine is sweet, and even though it moved quickly, it still felt right. The chemistry is strong and very pleasing. The love scene is well written and enjoyable.
If you enjoy a story with engaging characters and an intriguing plot, then you will enjoy Forever my Hero. While I am not overly fond of Ms. Sala’s head hopping and giving so many characters a point of view, I will definitely read more books by her. Happy reading!
This is the seventh book in the Blessings, Georgia series by Ms. Sala. when I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, I eagerly accepted since I’d read the previous books and enjoyed them. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.
I quickly became vested in the characters and the plot. The pacing is good and there was no sagging middle, which is a very good thing. One thing I did find disconcerting was a lot of head hopping. sometimes from one sentence to the next. that is the main reason I gave this book a little lower rating.
Alice is a wonderful heroine with all the characteristics I most admire. She has a fearless spirit, and while she has great reason to want to give up, she does not. She is an amazing mother, fiercely protective of her children, determined to give them the best. Although, she had a rough marriage with her late husband, she is willing to open her heart to love again.
Dan is a great hero. he is an honorable guy who doesn’t allow his tragic past to color his view of the world. I liked the way he looks out for others, including Alice. I truly admired him a great deal and wanted him to find his happy ending.
The romance between the hero and heroine is sweet, and even though it moved quickly, it still felt right. The chemistry is strong and very pleasing. The love scene is well written and enjoyable.
If you enjoy a story with engaging characters and an intriguing plot, then you will enjoy Forever my Hero. While I am not overly fond of Ms. Sala’s head hopping and giving so many characters a point of view, I will definitely read more books by her. Happy reading!
March 24, 2019
2.25 stars. If I were to rate this against the previous book of this series, I'd give it 4 stars. Unfortunately, based on its own merits, it was just an ok read. There was too much every day drama and too much sappiness for me to really enjoy. One star for a safe read with a non-manho H. One star for little visits all the previous couples of the series, and a quarter star for a cutie pie and her antics.
February 22, 2019
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
The love story at the heart of Forever My Hero is between widowed mum of two Alice and Dan, a widower. We’ve already meet Alice and Dan and now we get to know who they are and see them get a happily ever after and given the heartache both of have experienced, it is a well deserved HEA. Dan, once a big city lawyer, turns out to be a jack of all trades, repeatedly coming to the recuse of Alice and her kids and their love story is so sweet.
But forever my hero is more than the romance between Dan and Alice. We get multiple story lines with different points of view that all interconnect including an attempted murder, bulling and a hurricane that causes destruction in Blessings.
One of the things I always enjoy about spending time in Blessings is that we get to spend time with characters we’ve already met in previous books like Sheriff Pitmann, Lovey and Ruby. There are new faces too and not all of them good.
I really love this series and Forever My Hero is a really good romance and another enjoyable story. At the end we meet a new character which I hope means there will be more stories from Blessings in our future.
The love story at the heart of Forever My Hero is between widowed mum of two Alice and Dan, a widower. We’ve already meet Alice and Dan and now we get to know who they are and see them get a happily ever after and given the heartache both of have experienced, it is a well deserved HEA. Dan, once a big city lawyer, turns out to be a jack of all trades, repeatedly coming to the recuse of Alice and her kids and their love story is so sweet.
But forever my hero is more than the romance between Dan and Alice. We get multiple story lines with different points of view that all interconnect including an attempted murder, bulling and a hurricane that causes destruction in Blessings.
One of the things I always enjoy about spending time in Blessings is that we get to spend time with characters we’ve already met in previous books like Sheriff Pitmann, Lovey and Ruby. There are new faces too and not all of them good.
I really love this series and Forever My Hero is a really good romance and another enjoyable story. At the end we meet a new character which I hope means there will be more stories from Blessings in our future.
February 18, 2019
It was great to return to Blessings, Georgia and catch up with all the townspeople. The book jumps around a bit checking in on different people from previous stories in the series which makes it a bit disjointed. It took a while to get to Dan and Alice's story.
However, once it did I thoroughly enjoyed it. Both Dan and Alice's spouses died as a result of explosions, and they have a lot of history to accept and start a new relationship. I love Me Sala's descriptions of the town. You can imagine walking down Main St and seeing the businesses which helps focus on the story. I would have preferred the characters were woven into Dan and Alice's story rather than having chapters dedicated to them. It would have raised my rating to 4 stars!
I received a free ARC eBook from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
However, once it did I thoroughly enjoyed it. Both Dan and Alice's spouses died as a result of explosions, and they have a lot of history to accept and start a new relationship. I love Me Sala's descriptions of the town. You can imagine walking down Main St and seeing the businesses which helps focus on the story. I would have preferred the characters were woven into Dan and Alice's story rather than having chapters dedicated to them. It would have raised my rating to 4 stars!
I received a free ARC eBook from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
February 25, 2019
This was a heartwarming small town romance that returned us to Blessings, GA as the townspeople prepare for the arrival of a hurricane. There is a lot going on in this story and you bounce around from character to character but the core of the story involves Dan Amos and Alice Conroy. Both of these characters have been hit hard by life but as they become friends they slowly help the other heal and learn to live and love again. It's beautiful to watch as their relationship begins to evolve. The book is very well done and I think everyone will enjoy. Definitely a recommended read.
March 9, 2020
This book centers on Alice and her family. She has pulled herself up after her husband blew up their house and himself and is getting on with her life. Dan also has his wife and child die in an explosion and is impressed with Alice. Alice’s 7 year old daughter is being bullied at school and it has dangerous effects. A dangerous storm hits the town and Dan opens his house to Alice and her family. A good book in the series.
October 15, 2022
Sharon Sala never disappoints with the books she writes. The Blessings Georgia series is my absolute favorite of hers. I love each and every character she writes.
I am so glad to see such a happy ending for Alice and Dan. They both went through unimaginable heartbreak and only deserve the best.
Lovey is a wonderful human and I was so sad to see what she went through but she’s got a strong character she will make it through anything.
I am so glad to see such a happy ending for Alice and Dan. They both went through unimaginable heartbreak and only deserve the best.
Lovey is a wonderful human and I was so sad to see what she went through but she’s got a strong character she will make it through anything.
February 28, 2019
I am so enjoying this series. I really like this town, these people and this romance with a hero that was so wonderful. This story had so much heart along with reality and karma all during a tropical storm. I was absorbed in the book throughout and stayed up late finish. Dan comes to the aid of widow Alice and her children.
February 27, 2019
Forever My Hero
I always enjoy going back for a visit with the characters of Sharon Sala's Blessings, Georgia series. This book is no different. I can't think of a couple of people who deserve a bit of happiness more than Dan Amos and Alice Conroy. A truly enjoy small-town series.
I always enjoy going back for a visit with the characters of Sharon Sala's Blessings, Georgia series. This book is no different. I can't think of a couple of people who deserve a bit of happiness more than Dan Amos and Alice Conroy. A truly enjoy small-town series.
February 23, 2019
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for a honest review.
I loved going back to Blessings Georgia in Sharon Sala's series of town full of interesting character's. In this story we finally get to see Alice and her kids who met in a previous book, find their happily ever after. I love these books because they are a mixture of sweet and snarky with a bit of suspense. The bit of suspense has do with the storm coming through Blessings. I really loved Dan for Alice, at first I was a bit concerned when I realized he had lost his wife and son because I wasn't sure he would be available for Alice and her kids but he was awesome.
I loved going back to Blessings Georgia in Sharon Sala's series of town full of interesting character's. In this story we finally get to see Alice and her kids who met in a previous book, find their happily ever after. I love these books because they are a mixture of sweet and snarky with a bit of suspense. The bit of suspense has do with the storm coming through Blessings. I really loved Dan for Alice, at first I was a bit concerned when I realized he had lost his wife and son because I wasn't sure he would be available for Alice and her kids but he was awesome.
March 12, 2019
I so love this gentle and emotional series. I am looking forward to book 8.
July 17, 2019
This book is noteworthy for hurricane/storm description and the many rescues .. and a cross strata of people (which makes sense in this small community).
Sala writes a good story :)
Sala writes a good story :)
April 29, 2019
Forever My Hero is the seventh book in Sharon Sala's Blessings, Georgia series and it's also the sixth novel in the series I've read, and although I've given previous books in this series 5-star ratings, I found that the sheer number of characters and crises in this one was a bit too much, and a bit too pat, and that's why I'm giving Forever My Hero a 4.5 star rating.
Let me start by stating that Ms. Sala's Blessings, Georgia series makes me homesick for a place I've never been. The people and plot lines of these books are sweet, homey, heartwarming, and each novel can be read as a standalone, but although this one introduces new characters, many of the characters from the earlier novels are also present, which is why I suggest reading this series in the order in which it was written, primarily because those inter-relationships become more important in this novel than in any of the previous ones I've read.
Alice Conroy, the heroine, and her her two children, Charlie and Patty, were dropped off in Blessings with nothing but the clothes on their backs and barely enough money for to pay for a room for one month, by her late husband's family after he became a meth addict, built a meth lab in their home, which then blew up, killing him, destroying their home, and leaving his wife and children homeless. Because of the kindness of local residents, Alice was supplied with enough food and clothing to survive on, and found a job working at the local hardware store in Blessings, which is where she meets another fairly new town resident, Danner (Dan) Amos, who is working as a property manager and handyman for a house rental company and who came into the hardware store looking for some pipe fittings, and was immediately attracted to Alice.
Dan, the hero in this novel, also has been widowed. He was once a high-powered prosecutor in Dallas, Texas, but one of the people he prosecuted didn't like the verdict, and when Dan's wife couldn't get her car to start one morning as she was driving their 7-year-old to school, he gave her the keys to his car, which was rigged to blow up, and he watched as everything that really mattered to him exploded, killing his wife, their son, and his dreams of a happily ever after. Unable to remain in Texas, he moved to Blessings, where he's been living day to day without much hope of ever finding happiness again, just going through the motions.
In the midst of all this, there's drug dealing going on behind the scenes, and the attempted murder of retired local artist, Elliott, Dan's neighbor from across the street, who's driven to a spot overlooking Grey Goose Lake, a spot his deceased wife used to love, and he's painting the scenic view from a high cliff overlooking the lake, oblivious to the fact that a drug deal is going down in two boats on the lake, and the when dealer notices him up on the cliff, he orders his suppliers to kill him. The attempt fails, and Elliott barely survives after two days of lying unconscious in the wild, but he's finally found, rescued and hospitalized, not having the faintest idea who attacked him or why.
As if this wasn't enough drama, Hurricane Fanny, a category 5 hurricane, is expected to make landfall in Savannah, Georgia, less than one hour away from Blessings, and everyone in town is getting ready to brave the oncoming storm. Also happening is a second-grade class field trip to gather leaves at a neighboring farm for a class project, a class in which Patty, Alice's young daughter, is being bullied and ostracized because of a nasty rumor among some of the gossipy, nasty neighbors, which they then passed on to their children, that little Patty's family is a family of drug-dealers, and that rumor and the bullying it sets off nearly gets Patty killed, just as the hurricane is bearing down upon them, and it's Dan, Alice's son, Charlie, and Charlie's dog, Booger, to the rescue.
As I stated earlier, this summary is just for starters, because there's an attempted murder mystery to solve, drug dealers to get their comeuppance, some clairvoyance from Elliott, a lot more drama, danger, calamities, both physical and emotional, internal angst, rescues, and regret to come, all in a small town where love happens on a regular basis, a happy ending is always ensured, and where the aforementioned calamities always seem to bring out the best in the people of Blessings. It's a sign of Ms. Sala's incredible talent that she makes this town and its many inhabitants come alive, and I recommend this series wholeheartedly.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Let me start by stating that Ms. Sala's Blessings, Georgia series makes me homesick for a place I've never been. The people and plot lines of these books are sweet, homey, heartwarming, and each novel can be read as a standalone, but although this one introduces new characters, many of the characters from the earlier novels are also present, which is why I suggest reading this series in the order in which it was written, primarily because those inter-relationships become more important in this novel than in any of the previous ones I've read.
Alice Conroy, the heroine, and her her two children, Charlie and Patty, were dropped off in Blessings with nothing but the clothes on their backs and barely enough money for to pay for a room for one month, by her late husband's family after he became a meth addict, built a meth lab in their home, which then blew up, killing him, destroying their home, and leaving his wife and children homeless. Because of the kindness of local residents, Alice was supplied with enough food and clothing to survive on, and found a job working at the local hardware store in Blessings, which is where she meets another fairly new town resident, Danner (Dan) Amos, who is working as a property manager and handyman for a house rental company and who came into the hardware store looking for some pipe fittings, and was immediately attracted to Alice.
Dan, the hero in this novel, also has been widowed. He was once a high-powered prosecutor in Dallas, Texas, but one of the people he prosecuted didn't like the verdict, and when Dan's wife couldn't get her car to start one morning as she was driving their 7-year-old to school, he gave her the keys to his car, which was rigged to blow up, and he watched as everything that really mattered to him exploded, killing his wife, their son, and his dreams of a happily ever after. Unable to remain in Texas, he moved to Blessings, where he's been living day to day without much hope of ever finding happiness again, just going through the motions.
In the midst of all this, there's drug dealing going on behind the scenes, and the attempted murder of retired local artist, Elliott, Dan's neighbor from across the street, who's driven to a spot overlooking Grey Goose Lake, a spot his deceased wife used to love, and he's painting the scenic view from a high cliff overlooking the lake, oblivious to the fact that a drug deal is going down in two boats on the lake, and the when dealer notices him up on the cliff, he orders his suppliers to kill him. The attempt fails, and Elliott barely survives after two days of lying unconscious in the wild, but he's finally found, rescued and hospitalized, not having the faintest idea who attacked him or why.
As if this wasn't enough drama, Hurricane Fanny, a category 5 hurricane, is expected to make landfall in Savannah, Georgia, less than one hour away from Blessings, and everyone in town is getting ready to brave the oncoming storm. Also happening is a second-grade class field trip to gather leaves at a neighboring farm for a class project, a class in which Patty, Alice's young daughter, is being bullied and ostracized because of a nasty rumor among some of the gossipy, nasty neighbors, which they then passed on to their children, that little Patty's family is a family of drug-dealers, and that rumor and the bullying it sets off nearly gets Patty killed, just as the hurricane is bearing down upon them, and it's Dan, Alice's son, Charlie, and Charlie's dog, Booger, to the rescue.
As I stated earlier, this summary is just for starters, because there's an attempted murder mystery to solve, drug dealers to get their comeuppance, some clairvoyance from Elliott, a lot more drama, danger, calamities, both physical and emotional, internal angst, rescues, and regret to come, all in a small town where love happens on a regular basis, a happy ending is always ensured, and where the aforementioned calamities always seem to bring out the best in the people of Blessings. It's a sign of Ms. Sala's incredible talent that she makes this town and its many inhabitants come alive, and I recommend this series wholeheartedly.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 19, 2025
This is a cute series, I am sorry the first book is no longer available. I have been reading it a bit out of order and it would be nice to read it in order. In this one Alice is hurt at work, Dan steps up to help and is there for the family. Patty is being bullied and is in grave danger and Hurricane Franny is in town for a visit.
February 22, 2019
The newest residents in Blessing, Georgia about to find out that they can find love after tragedy and adversity. A town who shows its compassionate side whether for a neighbor or a new resident, they pull together. Alice Conroy found out how charitable the town is when she needed help the most. Danner (Dan) Amos has recently moved to town wanting a new start. Their start toward a happily ever after begins as strangers and continues when Dan lends Alice a hand when she needs it. They must pull together when along with the town to help neighbors in need with the threat of a hurricane.
Dan watches his neighbor leave his house one morning. A trip to the local lake put the neighbor in danger. Dan lends a hand when he's found and taken to the hospital. As a property manager he makes many trips to the local hardware store where Alice works. They're a little uncomfortable with each other because of the kiss Dan gave her. Alice has pulled herself and her 2 children up with determination and the help of the town. Both of them have feelings they're not revealing for each other. A trip to the local diner has Dan thinking that some one is involved in his neighbor's recent predicament. Even though he's fairly new in town Dan has made some himself useful and available around town. Alice is busy with her son and daughter and working at the hardware store. Alice's accident results in Dan coming to her rescue and brings him into their lives permanently. Dan makes a business decision and keeps the Paynes informed of happenings in town. When the daughter's class field brings to light her problem at school with some class mates, and the girl goes missing, Alice her son and their bloodhound dog come to help search. When she's found it's falls to Dan to make the rescue. Making him the families hero. The predicted hurricane has started to arrive so Dan makes plans to bring his neighbor to stay since he just got out of the hospital. He asks Alice and her children to come and stay with him as well. The neighbor's special gift comes into play a couple times. The brother is injured when they disagree about what to do about the witness. The attacker makes the decision to stop their illegal activities. Everyone makes preparations for the incoming hurricane. Dan and his group make a couple of discoveries. A rescue mission in the middle of the storm is made and successful. A trip is made during the eye of the storm to check out damage at the neighbor's house. He gives shelter to a displaced family. The attacker has an accident. Trips are made to tell the sheriff about some people who died during and after the hurricane. A rescued woman has her best friend for help to recover. The storm has passed and an apology is made to Alice and her daughter. Dan backs her up with how she wants to handle the situation. Feelings are revealed and a proposal is made. Life gets back to normal for the residents of Blessings.
Sharon Sala continues her Blessings, Georgia series with a look into the lives of the towns newest residents and some familiar ones as well. A sweet, home town story of love, consequences and being neighborly weaves together the lives of the resident as they face a major hurricane and other calamities. When neighbors help each other in this small southern town its a Blessing. Love can find you even after a major tragedy in you love and that your actions will change your life. I'm looking forward to returning to the town of Blessings, Georgia for another story of love, and the unique residents of one of state's small southern burbs.
Dan watches his neighbor leave his house one morning. A trip to the local lake put the neighbor in danger. Dan lends a hand when he's found and taken to the hospital. As a property manager he makes many trips to the local hardware store where Alice works. They're a little uncomfortable with each other because of the kiss Dan gave her. Alice has pulled herself and her 2 children up with determination and the help of the town. Both of them have feelings they're not revealing for each other. A trip to the local diner has Dan thinking that some one is involved in his neighbor's recent predicament. Even though he's fairly new in town Dan has made some himself useful and available around town. Alice is busy with her son and daughter and working at the hardware store. Alice's accident results in Dan coming to her rescue and brings him into their lives permanently. Dan makes a business decision and keeps the Paynes informed of happenings in town. When the daughter's class field brings to light her problem at school with some class mates, and the girl goes missing, Alice her son and their bloodhound dog come to help search. When she's found it's falls to Dan to make the rescue. Making him the families hero. The predicted hurricane has started to arrive so Dan makes plans to bring his neighbor to stay since he just got out of the hospital. He asks Alice and her children to come and stay with him as well. The neighbor's special gift comes into play a couple times. The brother is injured when they disagree about what to do about the witness. The attacker makes the decision to stop their illegal activities. Everyone makes preparations for the incoming hurricane. Dan and his group make a couple of discoveries. A rescue mission in the middle of the storm is made and successful. A trip is made during the eye of the storm to check out damage at the neighbor's house. He gives shelter to a displaced family. The attacker has an accident. Trips are made to tell the sheriff about some people who died during and after the hurricane. A rescued woman has her best friend for help to recover. The storm has passed and an apology is made to Alice and her daughter. Dan backs her up with how she wants to handle the situation. Feelings are revealed and a proposal is made. Life gets back to normal for the residents of Blessings.
Sharon Sala continues her Blessings, Georgia series with a look into the lives of the towns newest residents and some familiar ones as well. A sweet, home town story of love, consequences and being neighborly weaves together the lives of the resident as they face a major hurricane and other calamities. When neighbors help each other in this small southern town its a Blessing. Love can find you even after a major tragedy in you love and that your actions will change your life. I'm looking forward to returning to the town of Blessings, Georgia for another story of love, and the unique residents of one of state's small southern burbs.
February 27, 2019
Forever My Hero by Sharon Sala is the 7th book in her Blessings, Georgia series. Having read all the books in this series, I looked forward to reading this book, and to no surprise, I loved it. Sharon Sala always gives us wonderful feel good romances and a sweet couple we root hard for.
Alice Conroy, our heroine, has had a rough time, especially when she first moved to Blessings, Georgia with her two children, Charlie and Patty. Her husband was killed in an explosion making meth, and his family tossed her and the children out in Blessings, with no financial help. Alice has since found a home, and now works at the hardware store, and the children go to the local school.
Dan Amos, our hero, moved to Blessings, after his wife and child were killed in a car explosion meant for him, as Dan was a prosecuting attorney at that time. He now oversees rental properties, ensuring people are taken care of. Since he does handyman work, he visits the hardware store where Alice works often. In a short time they will become friends, especially after Alice injures her hand, and Dan is the one who takes her to the hospital. When Alice’s daughter, Patty gets hurt while on a school outing, Dan is the hero, saving Patty, as well as the Conroy’s dog. This continues to push them closer, as they have a similar tragic history. When Alice learns the Patty was being bullied, she steps up to protect her daughter, and when the other children’s family comes to apologize, it is Dan who stands up to them about bullying and the threats if they do not deal with this situation with their children.
With a major hurricane about to hit the entire town of Blessings, Dan makes sure that Alice, the children and another local resident move to his properties, which is safer and has a generator. It was fun to watch Dan and Alice falling hard for each other, and both getting past the tragedies that followed them to Blessings.
What follows is a heartwarming & emotional story that touched our hearts on many levels. I loved Dan, who was a wonderful, sweet, loving and understanding man, as well as being wonderful with the children. It was a joy to see them have a second chance at love in Blessings, Georgia.
Sharon Sala writes another fabulous story that had us hooked from the start. She amazes me that she continually gives us such great couples that we become invested in, with each and every book. Forever My Hero was a sweet romance, with a great couple, wonderful secondary characters that we love. If you enjoy a pure romance, wonderful characters, great couples, and a small town atmosphere, then you should be reading this series. Forever My Hero was a wonderful read, written so very well by Sharon Sala.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Alice Conroy, our heroine, has had a rough time, especially when she first moved to Blessings, Georgia with her two children, Charlie and Patty. Her husband was killed in an explosion making meth, and his family tossed her and the children out in Blessings, with no financial help. Alice has since found a home, and now works at the hardware store, and the children go to the local school.
Dan Amos, our hero, moved to Blessings, after his wife and child were killed in a car explosion meant for him, as Dan was a prosecuting attorney at that time. He now oversees rental properties, ensuring people are taken care of. Since he does handyman work, he visits the hardware store where Alice works often. In a short time they will become friends, especially after Alice injures her hand, and Dan is the one who takes her to the hospital. When Alice’s daughter, Patty gets hurt while on a school outing, Dan is the hero, saving Patty, as well as the Conroy’s dog. This continues to push them closer, as they have a similar tragic history. When Alice learns the Patty was being bullied, she steps up to protect her daughter, and when the other children’s family comes to apologize, it is Dan who stands up to them about bullying and the threats if they do not deal with this situation with their children.
With a major hurricane about to hit the entire town of Blessings, Dan makes sure that Alice, the children and another local resident move to his properties, which is safer and has a generator. It was fun to watch Dan and Alice falling hard for each other, and both getting past the tragedies that followed them to Blessings.
What follows is a heartwarming & emotional story that touched our hearts on many levels. I loved Dan, who was a wonderful, sweet, loving and understanding man, as well as being wonderful with the children. It was a joy to see them have a second chance at love in Blessings, Georgia.
Sharon Sala writes another fabulous story that had us hooked from the start. She amazes me that she continually gives us such great couples that we become invested in, with each and every book. Forever My Hero was a sweet romance, with a great couple, wonderful secondary characters that we love. If you enjoy a pure romance, wonderful characters, great couples, and a small town atmosphere, then you should be reading this series. Forever My Hero was a wonderful read, written so very well by Sharon Sala.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
March 7, 2019
Alice Conroy with her two young children, Charlie and Patty, were abandoned and dumped in Blessings, Georgia by the only family they had after Alice's husband, Marty, who had died in an explosion.
Blessings is a small town, where people rally together to help their own. That's what they did for Alice and her children. Alice was able to get a job and started to put her life back together again. She often ran into Dan Amos, who had a terrible tragedy in his own life.
While Alice was restocking shelves, she accidentally cut her hand with the box cutter and taken to the hospital. Dan got news that his neighbor was at the hospital, and went to see him. When Dan learned that Alice was there, he offered to be by her side because he knew what it felt to be alone.
Despite the inclement of bad weather, the elementary school decided it was safe for to go ahead with their field trip. Patty was struggling with some of her classmates bullying her. In a bid to try to bring the girls together, her teacher paired them into one group with her. Things didn't go as planned after another child got injured, and the girls were lined up to follow the teacher. Patty got pushed behind, then fell off the trail. The teacher didn't learn about it until reaching the injured child and her group was minus one.
Dan with some help from Booger managed to reach Patty. With the storm kicking up, Dan offered Alice, Charlie and Patty along with Elliot, his neighbor to come stay with him to ride the storm out. The storm is going to tear some lives apart, while it brings others together.
I love this series, it tugs at the heartstrings and makes one care about the characters. I, highly recommend this series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley via Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest opinion.
Blessings is a small town, where people rally together to help their own. That's what they did for Alice and her children. Alice was able to get a job and started to put her life back together again. She often ran into Dan Amos, who had a terrible tragedy in his own life.
While Alice was restocking shelves, she accidentally cut her hand with the box cutter and taken to the hospital. Dan got news that his neighbor was at the hospital, and went to see him. When Dan learned that Alice was there, he offered to be by her side because he knew what it felt to be alone.
Despite the inclement of bad weather, the elementary school decided it was safe for to go ahead with their field trip. Patty was struggling with some of her classmates bullying her. In a bid to try to bring the girls together, her teacher paired them into one group with her. Things didn't go as planned after another child got injured, and the girls were lined up to follow the teacher. Patty got pushed behind, then fell off the trail. The teacher didn't learn about it until reaching the injured child and her group was minus one.
Dan with some help from Booger managed to reach Patty. With the storm kicking up, Dan offered Alice, Charlie and Patty along with Elliot, his neighbor to come stay with him to ride the storm out. The storm is going to tear some lives apart, while it brings others together.
I love this series, it tugs at the heartstrings and makes one care about the characters. I, highly recommend this series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley via Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 24, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I so enjoy returning to Blessings, Georgia for another dose of sweet, Southern charm and small-town happenings. It’s one of my favorite fictional small town locations. This time around the residents of Blessing are facing the threat and true danger of a hurricane, along with other events in FOREVER MY HERO.
Although Dan and Alice are not new to us characters this time they are newly falling in love or allowing that sweet emotion back into their lives that have been touched by tragedy in the past. Watching Alice find a special man to trust again, one who will never harm her or her children was a delight. Seeing Dan embrace the future with another family was one of the most tender moments for he has been through so much.
As a hurricane races toward the Georgia state line, the residents of Blessings are hurrying to deal with that emergency while also facing other troubles around their hometown. The sense of community, of getting not only the main couple’s story but peeking in on the events going on in other lives is one of the many reasons I love this series.
I always close the final page of a story set in Blessings, Georgia with a sense of just having taken a trip back home… and that is a priceless feeling. If you love small town romances with believable characters, a large cast and very good stories then you’ll enjoy FOREVER MY HERO.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I so enjoy returning to Blessings, Georgia for another dose of sweet, Southern charm and small-town happenings. It’s one of my favorite fictional small town locations. This time around the residents of Blessing are facing the threat and true danger of a hurricane, along with other events in FOREVER MY HERO.
Although Dan and Alice are not new to us characters this time they are newly falling in love or allowing that sweet emotion back into their lives that have been touched by tragedy in the past. Watching Alice find a special man to trust again, one who will never harm her or her children was a delight. Seeing Dan embrace the future with another family was one of the most tender moments for he has been through so much.
As a hurricane races toward the Georgia state line, the residents of Blessings are hurrying to deal with that emergency while also facing other troubles around their hometown. The sense of community, of getting not only the main couple’s story but peeking in on the events going on in other lives is one of the many reasons I love this series.
I always close the final page of a story set in Blessings, Georgia with a sense of just having taken a trip back home… and that is a priceless feeling. If you love small town romances with believable characters, a large cast and very good stories then you’ll enjoy FOREVER MY HERO.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
February 27, 2019
Forever My Hero by Sharon Sala is part of the Blessings, Georgia Series. That is important to say because this is not just a story of Alice and Dan, it is a story of community. Anytime I read Blessings book, I simply want to pack up and moved there. The people of this town are not faultless or flawless, some are just making stupidly bad choices. Truly that is the case in the opening events of this book. However, the good folk come so clearly through that they begin to feel like close friends. I always welcome my visits with them.
This is true small town life with the bad and the good, not some idyllic version. I was drawn into the story from the beginning until the very last page. Living in a state that has had its share of hurricanes in the past few years, I found this to be an authentic and true read. “We help each other” could be Blessings, GA’s motto; being a huge part of what this story is about. Still it is not only a book about a weathering a physical storm but also one of surviving and thriving through the storms of life. That is something with which we can all identify.
I think Forever My Hero has the needed background given so that it could be considered a stand-alone read. For me I was thrilled to see more of Alice and her children, seeing how they were settling in to life at Blessings, prospering, and now ready for Alice to move forward in her relationships too. As for Dan Amos, he is a hero.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is true small town life with the bad and the good, not some idyllic version. I was drawn into the story from the beginning until the very last page. Living in a state that has had its share of hurricanes in the past few years, I found this to be an authentic and true read. “We help each other” could be Blessings, GA’s motto; being a huge part of what this story is about. Still it is not only a book about a weathering a physical storm but also one of surviving and thriving through the storms of life. That is something with which we can all identify.
I think Forever My Hero has the needed background given so that it could be considered a stand-alone read. For me I was thrilled to see more of Alice and her children, seeing how they were settling in to life at Blessings, prospering, and now ready for Alice to move forward in her relationships too. As for Dan Amos, he is a hero.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 25, 2019
Sala is my go-to for down home, small town, feel good stories. She gives her readers characters that may not have a lot materially but they have a ton of heart and know what it means to be part of a community. (I will say that this one just seemed to have a bit more going on than I remember from the first stories. They seemed to focus more on a particular couple while introducing parts of the community. The last couple seem to be getting a little heavier with subplots and secondary characters, but it’s delivered in a way that isn’t too complicated or hard to follow, just a little bit more crowded.)
Being there with Dan and Alice as they feel out each other is all sorts of sweet. There’s an attraction there, but both of them had a tragedy take their spouse from them so they have to decide if they are at a point where they can give their hearts again. As if that wasn’t enough, throw in some trouble with drug dealers, mean girls, & a hurricane closing in on the town and there’s a decent amount of tension to keep things extra interesting.
Driven by the characters and their connections throughout the town, Sala’s Blessings series shows the complications and reality of life, love, and community.
(Can easily be read as a standalone but would probably be better enjoyed as part of the entire series just so you get an understanding of how everyone fits together.)
**Review given honestly and freely after receipt of a reader copy. This opinion is completely my own and was not influenced in any way.**
Being there with Dan and Alice as they feel out each other is all sorts of sweet. There’s an attraction there, but both of them had a tragedy take their spouse from them so they have to decide if they are at a point where they can give their hearts again. As if that wasn’t enough, throw in some trouble with drug dealers, mean girls, & a hurricane closing in on the town and there’s a decent amount of tension to keep things extra interesting.
Driven by the characters and their connections throughout the town, Sala’s Blessings series shows the complications and reality of life, love, and community.
(Can easily be read as a standalone but would probably be better enjoyed as part of the entire series just so you get an understanding of how everyone fits together.)
**Review given honestly and freely after receipt of a reader copy. This opinion is completely my own and was not influenced in any way.**
March 4, 2019
If you have ever read any of Sharon Sala’s books about the small town of Blessings, Georgia, you’ll know what you’re getting here. This is a small town made up of interesting people, most of whom are truly good people. They will go out of their way to help someone who needs it and to just do the right thing. Unfortunately, there are some selfish and cruel people, but they always get what is coming to them in the end.
This story is about two heartbroken people trying to make the best of things after personal tragedies. They share the tragedy of having spouses who died in explosions. Alice Conroy is trying her best to make a life for herself to take care of her two children. Don Amos is the hero of the title and book. His wife and son died years ago and he left his job as a Dallas prosecutor and moved to Blessings to recover. He can’t help being attracted to Alice and wanting to help her and her very lovable children. When a hurricane attacks the Southeast, he offers to bring them to his home which is much safer. There they will find out if they can make a new family after all that they have gone through.
I really enjoy my time reading about this town. Each time, Sala pulls me in and I wish that I could live in a such a kind and thoughtful community.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
This story is about two heartbroken people trying to make the best of things after personal tragedies. They share the tragedy of having spouses who died in explosions. Alice Conroy is trying her best to make a life for herself to take care of her two children. Don Amos is the hero of the title and book. His wife and son died years ago and he left his job as a Dallas prosecutor and moved to Blessings to recover. He can’t help being attracted to Alice and wanting to help her and her very lovable children. When a hurricane attacks the Southeast, he offers to bring them to his home which is much safer. There they will find out if they can make a new family after all that they have gone through.
I really enjoy my time reading about this town. Each time, Sala pulls me in and I wish that I could live in a such a kind and thoughtful community.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
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