Adalyn Stalling’s clients convinced her to be a contestant on their reality TV show, The One. Hundreds of thousands of viewers tune in each week to watch a group of bachelorettes try to win one bachelor’s heart, and then during the next season, watch bachelors do the same.
Adi appeared on the show twice—once as a potential love-match for the bachelor, once as the bachelorette. As a marketing executive for the firm who handles the show, Adi initially became a part of the cast in order to learn more from the “inside.” But as much as she wanted to stay professionally removed, she ended up giving her heart to both Adam and Connor.
Both times, the men broke it off.
Now America’s most famous “loser at love,” Adalyn is trying to pick up the pieces of her life. Given the media frenzy and the paparazzi that chase her, she’s finding it difficult. And just as she learns she may have picked up a stalker, her childhood friend, Chase Rollins, tracks her down at last. He informs her that her beloved grandfather is ailing and needs her help, in more ways than one.
So begins an epic summer in which Adalyn needs to decide where she belongs, what she is supposed to do, and with whom she might find true love at last. All Once Upon a Montana Summer…
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 60 books, with more than 4.5 million copies sold. She recently released The Sugar Baron's Daughters Series (KETURAH, VERITY and SELAH), and recently finished a teen series called Remnants (SEASON OF WONDER, SEASON OF FIRE, and SEASON OF GLORY). She's also written the River of Time Series (WATERFALL, CASCADE, TORRENT, BOURNE & TRIBUTARY, DELUGE) and The Grand Tour Series (GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS, GRAVE CONSEQUENCES, GLITTERING PROMISES), time-slip romance duology called River of Time: California (THREE WISHES and FOUR WINDS), and some contemporary romances (ONCE UPON A MONTANA SUMMER and ONCE UPON AN IRISH SUMMER are the newest releases).
Lisa’s time is split between managing home base, writing, consulting and helping Tim with his business. Her husband Tim is a sculptor of ducks-out-of-fenceposts (RMRustic.com), graphic designer and musician. They have three big kids–Olivia (who just got married), Emma (who is about to get married) and Jack (who is a junior in high school).
The Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Once Upon a Montana Summer was a sweet summery romance story. I was surprised by the stalker aspect, as it brought some danger and suspense to the story which I didn't see coming at all.
The characters were nice. I liked how they already knew each other and it wasn't an instant-romance...it felt more realistic.
The ending was good. I did feel like some of the things that happened seemed unlikely, but it did make for an entertaining read.
All in all, I enjoyed Once Upon a Montana Summer and think if you enjoy contemporary romance you will too.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
ONCE UPON A MONTANA SUMMER is a story full of heart, with some sweet romance, and a little danger thrown in. It has a nostalgic feel to it with the heroine escaping to a place where she used to spend her summers with the best friend and boy who first won her heart. Readers will fall in love with these characters and will cheer for the happily-ever-after they deserve.
Adalyn or "Adi" is a really fun character. She's smart and successful, but has gotten waylaid by the reality love shows she was pulled onto and then unfortunately didn't win. Through it all, she seems to have lost herself a little in all the show-business and in her heartbreak. Going to her grandfather's is just what she needs to recuperate. I love the setting and the work she does on the cabins (I am a little addicted to those home shows where they flip houses and all of that). I love her relationship with her grandfather, as well as Chase's with his brother and his brother's wife. I pretty much fell in love with Chase from the first moment he appears. He's as steady as they come and a very outdoorsy type. I love that Adi and Chase have an old friendship. They then rediscover how they've grown and changed, but that history is already there and it opens the possibility for more than friendship. The suspense aspect keeps things interesting. It feels a little rough in places, but otherwise works.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This was just what I was looking for when I picked this up for review. I pretty much enjoyed every single minute and am looking forward to more of these types of stories from this author!
Content: Clean Source: I received a complimentary copy from the author's pulicist, which did not require a positive review nor affect it in any way.
This book really covered the many different types of love for me. The love between a grandfather and granddaughter, the love between friends, romantic love, love for the beauty of nature and love of a spiritual nature. Books with stalkers really creep me out, so yeah, the creep factor was high in this one in the very best of ways. I loved the setting, the characters and how my feelings grew as the book progressed. I read through this one quickly because I just couldn't put it down!
I enjoyed this escape to the campgrounds of Glacier National Park. From the start, I liked the main character, Adalyn, and I found the circumstances of her story interesting. How does a person live after doing reality tv? As Adalyn seeks to find normal again, the friendships and potential for romance are too fun. However, the threat of a stalker kept me turning pages. Bergren creates a nice balance between the story of family life and suspense. Of course, the beautiful setting only adds to the story. Once Upon a Montana Summer is clean fiction that might just provide a little needed break in your day! I was provided a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
“Life is full of broken eggs, Adi girl. The trick is to figure out how to be a good omelette maker.”
This is the first book by Lisa Bergren I have read and I cannot believe I’ve waited this long to pick up one of her books. Once Upon Montana Summer is a contemporary romance with quite a bit of suspense thrown in for good measure. The writing is fluid and easy to read and the plot is cohesive. The characters are memorable and so easy to love (except the stalker, of course....he’s totally scary). Adi is a strong woman but sensitive and heartbroken after being humiliated twice on reality dating shows on national TV. Chase is a protective park ranger who’s always loved Adi and is there for her when Adi needs to hide away from the paparazzi. Then a stalker enters the scene and makes the storyline and the relationship between Adi and Chase more intense. If you enjoy a well-written contemporary romance with a bit of suspense, you will love this book.
2.5 stars. Biggest con for me was that this book is apparently supposed to be Christian, but really I couldn’t see much difference in these character’s lives than anyone else’s. I still gave it 3 stars because of the National Park setting (Glacier), and that it wasn’t poorly written.
Very up-to-date book (Instagram, etc). She was on a reality show and goes to the park to get away but her stalker follows her there. POV’s are from the stalker, FMC, and MMC, who was a friend from the past. Both work in the park.
A modern day romance with nods to the past. Family, love, mystery, suspense...it’s all there.
So many love stories are predictable, and while there is certainly nothing wrong with that, it is refreshing to be surprised by a story. Lisa intertwines love and suspense beautifully. There was never a dull moment.
I can always count on Lisa’s books to move me, and this one is no exception.
Whenever I hear that Lisa T. Bergren has a new book to be released I drop everything and do anything to get it, because I know I will be entertained and amazed by the book. This new book by Lisa T. Bergren did not disappoint me. It is a sweet story of finding true love, after feeling like there is no hope, and also a story of deep lasting relationships. There is a fun, wise old gramps, and some dear new and old friends. It was also packed full of beautiful pictures of the Glacier National Park area. Wow, I could just imagine all the stunningly beautiful mountains and scenery. Made me want to go on a hike and see God’s creations! Now all this is tender and endearing, but the author decided to also throw into this book some “edge of your seat” drama and suspense. I was so caught up in the drama and suspense that I didn’t want to put it down. I read it whenever and wherever I could. The intense adventures will keep you reading until, like me, you realize you’ve read the whole book and didn’t want it to end. Will we see more of Chase and Adi? I don’t know, but I really hope so. I highly recommend you pick this book up and have a great adventure! You won’t be disappointed!
Lisa is one of my very favorite authors so I was very much looking forward to reading her new book! I was NOT let down. I loved the setting and the story line and her ability to put me right inside her character's thoughts and feelings. It's not always easy to write an antagonist the way she has in this book and I was extremely impressed. The ending was better than I expected and as usual left me waiting eagerly for another. Highly recommend not only reading this book but all of her others!
Full review & setting spotlight on FatihfullyBookish.com
This page-turning combination of childhood friends to second chance romance and a healthy dose of suspense is complemented by the author's vivid use of a naturally awe-inspiring setting. Glacier National Park shines in its grandeur and serenity.
Despite the unique circumstances of Adalyn's successive and public heartbreaks, she is a relatable character and I found myself sympathizing with and rooting for her throughout the story. Chase is as all-American, boy-next-door as they come and who can resist a man in uniform?!
Closing the pages of this book (or swiping to the final screen) was bittersweet because I hate to say goodbye to these characters and leave the beautiful setting behind! I highly recommend this story and look forward to reading the next destination adventure the author releases!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. The opinions expressed are my own.
"There are some flowers that only bloom after a fire, she remembered him saying. She felt like she'd been through a couple fires herself. Might there be some seeds in her now, just beginning to sprout?" - Lisa Tawn Bergren, Once Upon a Montana Summer
This was a sweet romance with some engrossing suspense. Going into this story, I hadn't realized that there would be an added dose of tension along those lines. It was a welcome and entertaining surprise. I enjoyed everything about this story, but the main characters and their romance was exceptional.
Once Upon a Montana Summer was amazing! The characters and storyline was to die for. I felt like I was there in Glacier National Park. If u haven’t read any of this author’s books you are missing out. I can’t wait until the next one.
This was a first-time read for me with this author. I picked up this book from a recommendation another author and as it was on sale I decided to give it a try. Wow! I’m so glad I did! I loved it from the very start to the end. I will definitely be looking for more from this author and this series. A clean, Christian romance with so e great suspense.
Normally, I would say there is nothing LESS real than reality TV, but for Adalyn Stallings, the pain of rejection—TWICE—is all too real. In the hands of some authors, this might result in a heroine who hobbles around on emotional crutches feeling sorry for herself, but Adi’s stronger than that,thank goodness! That’s not to say it hasn’t been a blow to her self-confidence,but I really can’t abide romances where the tension relies on the heroine continually telling herself she can never let herself feel anything for another man because she’s been disappointed in the past. Hurrah for characters who keep things in perspective!
Another plus for this novel is the time we get to spend in the great outdoors of Montana with the oh-so-easy-to-fall-in-love-with Chase Rollins—in between Adi’s efforts to give her grandfather’s cabins a much-needed makeover. Chase is the kind of hero I can really get behind. He’s loyal, and he’s very thoughtful in the way he pursues Adi in the wake of her public rejections.This wasn’t quite a best friends to more scenario, but they had their childhood friendship to build on, so it had that same feel to it—that comfortable friendship that slowly develops a sweet extra layer. And there are some great non-kiss romantic moments in this story. I love it when authors can take simple moments like hand-holding and turn them into something special, and that happens in this novel.
But that stalker . . . yeah, he’s a bit delusional. I don’t always enjoy having the point-of-view of the “bad guy”, but in this case I think it worked because Adi wasn’t aware of his efforts to find her once she disappeared to Montana. It added a good layer of suspense to the story, even if I do find the stalker trope a little clichéd.
An enjoyable read for those looking for an inspirational/clean contemporary romance with a dash of suspense on the side!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I was drawn into this book within the first few pages and I just continued to get sucked in the more pages I read! I could smell the pine trees and the aroma of the sweet mountain lake and I could just imagine the sunsets over the lake too! The story between Adalyn and Chase is one that stemmed from a life long friendship. As they grew older they both silently had crushes on one another, but didn't want to act on it in fear they would ruin their friendship. *SO CUTE* Their love story doesn't go off without a hitch though. The whole stalker thing was a great twist...but also a pretty creepy one. Creepy as in weirdo creepy not scary creepy. The Epilogue was dreamy and I just love how it all came together. All in all this was a great read whether you read it during the summer or not. This one for sure will be on my "Top 10 Reads of the Year" list!
Once Upon a Montana Summer is a sweet contemporary romance with a sometimes sappy and predictable relationship but with an added dash of suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. I think anybody looking for a fun, quick, clean romance would enjoy this book.
The story was interesting, but there were aspects I don’t care to read in Christian fiction.
I believe a couple (married or single) can be very much in love without making everyone around them uncomfortable with "personal" talk and physical displays like nuzzling or patting each other on the ****, and sitting in one's lap. These were fictional characters but I was still embarrassed for the friends subjected to it.
Plus a Christian grandfather asking his grown Christian granddaughter if he needs to have a safe sex talk with her? Yeesh!
Lisa Bergren's books never disappoint me, and Once Upon a Montana Summer was no different. It was a sweet romance with a touch of suspense that I could not put down until I had finished it.
This is very much a sweet summer romance story! Lisa T Bergren...this is a name I have known and followed for a long time. Way back, when I was in my teens, I would read those Christian fiction romances I called the "Palisades" (anyone remember those?!), and I had quite a few of them that were written by her.
To me, her name is synonymous with light-hearted, sweet, Christian romance.
This book has such an interesting synopsis, and I really wanted to read it. I enjoyed it, and found it very much an easy read. The one thing that surprised me was that this one also included a bit of suspense. (yes...if you read that up there...there is a stalker involved) Somehow, I neglected to read the back cover copy in it's entirety (yes--I have a real tendency to skim over that part so I can hurry up and get to actually reading the book!! :) ) and missed that part.
Adalyn returns to her grandfather's home in Montana...to get away from heartache, paparazzi, and just to find herself again.
The setting was just great - out in the wild, beautiful west, that vast state of Montana. The place of mountains and national forests. And more. I enjoyed getting to know Adi. Her struggles, her journey to love.
The characters. They were also fantastic. I loved seeing Adi and her grandfather being able to spend time together. What a sweet relationship. And then she gets reacquainted with her longtime friend Chase. He's a pretty great guy. All you could want in a hero. Adi didn't want to believe it at first, that he was interested in her...I mean, after all, she'd already been burned, not once, but twice. Did she dare give love another try?!
...I'll leave the rest. You can read the book if you are interested!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Once Upon A Montana Summer by Lisa T. Bergren Adalyn Stalling has lost twice in love. As first a contestant on the TV show THE ONE she thought she was going to be the one picked-but another was chosen- the next season she was asked to be the star of the show and choose among many bachelors. Once again Adi found love, and yet once again it fell through. Now known as “America’s Sucker-Punched Sweetheart” Adi’s boss is asking her to take a leave of absence-just until the media backs off. But Adi has picked up a stalker. Enter Chase Rollins. Chase is a childhood friend who arrives just in time to help Adi escape to her childhood home in Glacier Montana. Adi arrives to see that her grandfather is in poor health and has let their tourist cabins fall into disrepair. She sets in to renovate and get the cabins fixed for the summer tourist season. Adi also spends time getting to know Chase-her childhood friend and crush. Mending her broken heart, Adi hopes that nobody will recognize her. What none of them count on is how determined Adi’s stalker is to find her. I really enjoyed ONCE UPON A MONTANA SUMMER. I loved the setting of Montana. The descriptions were beautiful. I loved the romance between Chase and Adi that bloomed at a carful and carefree pace. And lastly I loved the bit of suspense with the stalker. Reading his plans and thoughts kept the story moving along at an exciting pace. While I enjoy a good series, I really enjoy when a book has everything I need in one volume; romance, suspense and a “happily ever after”. Lisa T. Bergren never disappoints in a new story and she is always a favorite of mine. I highly recommend ONCE UPON A MONTANA SUMMER, you won’t be disappointed! **I received my copy for review purposes from the author. All opinions are my own**
Adalyn "Adi" Stalling is second guessing her willingness to be on a reality show as a contestant at the encouragement of her employer. Embarrassment and a potenial stalker have her hightailing it back to Montana with her best friend Chase Rollins to see about her ailing grandfather. I loved Adi, but I feel that she didn't always make the best decisions in life. One can sense that she now really regrets the show, but has little control over her life with the paparazzi following her. Chase seems a lot more grounded than Adi and I sensed that he has always loved her, and the time spent during her summer only cemented his feelings for her. I enjoyed the comraderie between the local friends and the love for her grandfather. The fall back into her easy friendship with Chase was exactly what she needed in addition to the picturesque Rocky Mountains. Can she take the chance to give up her heart to Chase rather than he shallow reality show contestants who abandoned her? I received a copy of this book from the author and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
I love Lisa’s writing. I’m not a typical romance reader in that usually it doesn’t interest me unless it’s historical fiction or something else about the story sets it apart (like a fantasy setting, something supernatural, what have you), so at first I didn’t find myself as interested in this book as Lisa’s others (girl can WRITE a killer historical romance!). But I really liked the characters and even though the stalker was a tad predictable (especially after watching that creepy new series on Netflix “You”- that stalker guy was on a whole other creep level), I really enjoyed this story! I loved Chase & Adi & the setting was great. Can’t wait for the other stand alone romances Lisa has promised in this series in the future!
Childhood friends, Adalyn and Chase, become reacquainted amidst the backdrop of the gorgeous Glacier National Park. Chase had gone to Chicago to inform Adi of her grandfather's ailing health. Their deep friendship is a haven while Adi recovers from the trauma of two publicly known broken relationships. Adi was a contestant not once but twice on a dating reality show. She's being hounded by paparazzi and is also being stalked.
I enjoyed visiting Montana and meeting the residents of Columbia Falls. I so appreciate the spiritual truths woven throughout this second chance romance.
Recommend to readers who enjoy inspirational, romantic suspense.
I purchase a copy directly from Mrs. Bergren. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
Most of this book is set in Glacier National Park, and since I was able to visit there a couple years ago, it was very easy to visualize where all the action was taking place, and that increased my enjoyment of the book.
I don't usually enjoy books about celebrities and stalkers (and I didn't enjoy the stalker parts of this book either), but Bergren does a good job of focusing on the true, inner person rather than the celebrity on the surface. She also does well at contrasting true, Biblical love to shallow, Hollywood style love.
Lisa Bergren is one of my favorite authors because she writes such suspenseful stories. Very excited to hear when this contemporary romance book would be coming out but surprised of the story background that many people may be familiar with when they read it that makes you want to keep reading. You fall in love with the characters and feel as a protective mama bear of the main character, Adi, and her adventures in love! Thank you Lisa Bergren for writing another book I could not put down. This one was a sheer thriller!!
This book was a very fun read. As the suspense built, I couldn't put it down! The main characters were people you could root for. I have read books recently where the protagonist was not actually likable. These characters were charming, as was the setting. I very much enjoyed the descriptions of Glacier National Park. I have never been there but could picture it and definitely want to visit someday. Overall, this is a wonderful, clean Christian fiction romance.
Once Upon a Montana Summer is the perfect blend of sweet romance and enough suspense to keep you reading until the very last page. The National Park setting is perfect for whisking you away and as usual the hero is perfectly swoon worthy. Lisa T. Bergren doesn’t disappoint; do yourself a favor and read her latest!
Once again Lisa Bergren delivers a exciting tale that invites readers to escape reality and join the characters on their adventure to discover love and purpose. The added suspense of a stalker creeping closer to his target, combined with sweet romance, kept me captivated page after page. Another favorite to add to my collection by this author!
Another fantastic read by Lisa T. Bergren. I was immediately drawn into the life of Adalyn Stalling as she rediscovered herself while trying not to be discovered by paparazzi and a stalker. Once Upon a Montana Summer is a novel worth reading again and again!