Send Sunshine

Love in Providence #1

by Heather MacKinnon

Can her light overcome his darkness?

Bailey Woods is perfectly content living the single life. After being disappointed by men one too many times, she completely gave up on dating. Until she volunteers to spend time with a lonely horse and winds up working with the surliest man she’s ever met. So, why can’t she stop thinking about him?

Ryder MacAlister has three rules: no girls, no mistakes, and no slowing down. And Bailey is about to make him break all three. From the moment he met her, he felt this undeniable attraction. Fighting it is pointless, but he knows he needs to keep his distance. His past is as sordid as his future and he can’t let anyone else get mixed up in his problems. Especially Bailey.

She can’t resist a challenge and is determined to break down his walls for a single night. But what happens when she sees behind his gruff facade? Will Ryder’s past prevent a future with Bailey? Or could she be what he’s needed all along?

This is a very steamy contemporary romance with strong language intended for audiences 18 and older.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

404 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 6, 2018

About the author

Heather MacKinnon is a USA Today best-selling romance author living in North Carolina with her husband, adorable son, and three trouble making dogs. She grew up on Long Island and spent her young adult years living in various states in New England. This led to her subsequent addiction to Dunkin’ Donuts lattes and her gratuitous use of the word “wicked”. After a lifetime of enjoying other people’s words, she decided to write down some of her own.

Reviews

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/27/2019)! 🎁

[Kari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Send Sunshine is the first novel in the Love in Providence series by Heather MacKinnon. It is also the first novel I have read by Heather MacKinnon - and what a read it was! I absolutely loved everything about this story!

Bailey Woods is a sassy young woman who lives with her best friend and roommate, Isabella. She is a phlebotomist and doesn't have much of a social life. Content in her own element and being single she finds that she doesn't get out much. When she goes to a graduation party for her co-workers daughter and ends up volunteering on a farm her whole life is about to change in the most confusing way!

Ryder MacAlister is has personal rules that he doesn't break for anything. He has to turn his life around and these rules are his way to doing so. However, when the most beautiful woman he has ever seen shows up to his job his world is turned on its head.

I loved Bailey and Ryder from the first page. What I like most about this story is that while Ryder is still a strong, handsome, alpha male-type, he has a very vulnerable side that you get to see a lot of. It brought a different perspective to the story and I loved that. I loved the back and forth and the chemistry between Bailey and Ryder - the story was written well and made you feel everything the characters were feeling. If you haven't read Send Sunshine yet - do so immediately!!

[Tee loves Kyle Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by Heather and it will not be the last! I have to say that I absolutely loved everything about this book. From the scenery to the characters was absolutely AMAZING! I was so enthralled by this story that I stayed up late reading until I was finished with the book. The ending oh that ending was everything I thought it would be. This is one of the books that you have to read for yourself in order to get the full depth of the story. This is a Diamond in the rough and you will love love it!

Bailey is living the life. Loving her job and friends but missing that one important part of life a partner. She has dated but they have all failed and she thinks she is cursed in this department but her friends tell her she needs to keep looking because she will find the one. Then she decides to take a job watching and caring for horses and this is when her life changes.

Ryder oh my Ryder he is a man of mystery and when i first started reading about him I thought he was an arse but as I got to know him and why he was the way he was I loved him even more. Ryder has this tough exterior but deep down inside he is vulnerable and scared to get hurt. When he meets Bailey his life is turned upside down and he is not sure what way is up or down. He is attracted to her but so much more. He has feelings he hasn't had in a long time and he knows Bailey is going to change his life. But can Ryder's past ruin it all?

[BrandyD · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Send Sunshine was a very good read that started off light and fun before moving into "real life isn't always rainbows and butterflies" territory. The chemistry between Bailey and Ryder was great and I loved how they both committed themselves fully to each other after such a rocky start. It was sweet watching their romance bloom once they decided to slow things down and really give their relationship a chance.
When the couple has to face the reality of (*slight spoiler alert*) mental illness and how it affects everyone, not just the person with the diagnosis, things take a devastating turn. I was really rooting for the couple to make it through to the other side. It was interesting to see the characters grow and mature whilst they learned to cope and lean on one another as they accepted the true nature of living with such a health condition. The portrayal of what happened was true to life and it was refreshing to see mental health tackled with accurate depiction. That is one subject matter I've rarely seen in contemporary romance novels and the author represented it brilliantly.
There were a few punctuation errors but overall a very nice job on a story about a realistic relationship.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna Till · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Bailey and Ryder's story
Bailey volunteers at a friends stable to work with a horse that they have trouble with. On her first day she meets Ryder but the first time they meet doesn't go well but despite this they are both attracted to each other. Then Ryder and his brother moves into the apartment above Bailey and her best friend Bella. Working together and living in the same building brings them closer together and they soon find themselves in a relationship.
But Bailey has been hurt in the past and fears opening her heart to Ryder, and Ryder has his own issues and secrets but avoids telling Bailey in case it all scares her away. Together they learn about each other and themselves and have to learn to follow their hearts if they want to be together and that means opening up completely to each other.
This is the first book in the series and it was an easy, enjoyable read. You find yourself feeling for both Ryder and Bailey and shouting at the book for Ryder to just tell Bailey his secrets. I enjoyed this book from start to finish and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I have read a couple of Heather Mackinnon's book and I have enjoyed everyone, she is an author I would definitely recommend

[AnneKR · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Ryder meets Bailey, he knows he’s in a lot of trouble. She radiates an aura, a light so bright he can’t help but be mesmerized by her. He is attracted to her light, but at the same time he feels he doesn’t deserve any kind of good in his life, so he goes out of his way to be mean and unpleasant. Bailey can’t figure Ryder out – one minute he can’t stand to be near her and the next he’s kissing her. He’s all over the place with his actions and feelings, but it’s too late for Bailey to back out because despite the way he treats her, she’s developed serious feelings for him. They start to get to know each other and soon a routine is established where they see each other as much as possible. But Ryder has a secret, and he’s afraid to tell Bailey. So, he keeps it to himself, until his secret takes control and destroys what Ryder and Bailey have.

I love every book this author has written! Her writing draws you completely in the story as if you are living it. The story of Bailey and Ryder has its ups and downs, happiness and ugliness, wanting to hate but ultimately finding love. This book is a great start to a series and I look forward to reading the next one!

[Norma Jean · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bailey Woods is finally getting over a bad breakup. She has no interest in becoming involved with any man any time. But, that was before she volunteered to work with a lonely horse who is being boarded at a horse farm owned by her friend’s parents. She doesn’t really know much about horses, but she is willing to learn.

Ryder McAlister is assigned to teach Bailey about grooming and caring for the horse. He is a hard working man who has made some mistakes, but is dedicated to making up for them. He is working three jobs and has no time for women or romance.

Bailey is eager to learn about horses, but she has never met a more obnoxious man. Nothing she does pleases him.

Ryder is determined to fight the immediate attraction that he feels for Bailey. Working closely together is making it extremely difficult.

This is Book 1 in Heather Mackinnon’s new Love in Providence series. I enjoyed Send Sunshine and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance.

[Sara Reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey and Ryder were made for each other. Their bond and the steam between them is strong, even from the first time they meet each other. They have such a bond not only physically but emotionally. You can feel what they have, it jumps off the page. This book sucked me in from the first page and I didn’t want to put it down until I finished the entire thing. I am so glad that Heather touches on mental health in the story. She does such a great job integrating this subject in their love story. It’s important to talk about mental health and the stigma around it. There love story was is no walk in the park, but that’s what makes this story to real and relatable. I have never read any books from Heather Mackinnon but I can't wait to read more from her! She is very clear and concise and I love when I can feel what her characters are feeling. I feel like I am moving along in the story with them and that’s exactly how I love to feel when I am reading. I give this book a 4.5 out of 5!!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book grabbed my attention from the beginning. I read it in one sitting. Writing was superb. Character development was fantastic. Loved all the characters. The author has a way with all her books of making you attached to not only the main characters but the side characters as well. I hope the author writes stories about Belle and Remy as well. Don’t want to give away the story / plot but have to give kudos to the author on how she wrote about such an important subject. Refreshing outlook that really showed how people struggle on both sides. As with her other books , the author has a knack of not just covering one subject but many. Besides the main subject, she also dealt with different family and friend relationships. How strong some are and how not to give up when the relationship isn’t so strong in a family. I would recommend this book without hesitation. Can’t wait to read more from this author.

[Ashley Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hit me hard. I went from sighing, to laughing to sobbing at one point. It hit me right in the feels.

Bailey was sick of men, of having her heart broken and decided to swear them off. Until she starts volunteering at a horse farm, helping a horse who's spirit is also broken and meets Ryder.

They start off to a bad start. Ryder doesn't want to get close to anyone after his history so as much as he's attracted to Bailey he's a bit of a jerk to her to keep her at a distance. They continue to work together though and over time realize their attraction for each other is mutual. We are taken on a wild ride with their relationship and I couldn't stop reading.

Bailey doesn't know everything about Ryder though, and what she doesn't know may just be the end of them. Whether she likes it or not. Ryder won't let her be hurt by his past.

You wont regret reading this book. It was amazing and the storyline will be understood by many

[Sharlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey has sworn off men because of a past boyfriend. When she takes on the responsibility of giving extra attention to a horse, Ace, she jumps at the chance. Ryder is the man to train Bailey in caring for Ace. Bailey and Ryder butt heads on their first couple of trainings. But Ryder soon realizes that Bailey is his sunshine and needs to let her into his bleak and black life. When things go terribly wrong, can Bailey and Ryder get back the happiness and sunshine that they had with each other? I appreciated and would like to thank the author, Heather MacKinnon, for researching and doing an excellent job in writing a tough subject matter in this book. Many people think that mental illness and depression is all in their head and snap out of it. Much like other medical illnesses, medication is needed to help a person live a fulfilling life. Thank you Heather MacKinnon! I look forward to reading book 2 in this series. 👄❤

[Aimee Bower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey goes to the party for the daughter of her co-worker. Bailey and her friend walk to see the horses. The owner says that Bailey can come to help with a horse. Bailey decides to this, she is excited to go. Bailey meets the man she going to work with, he is rude to her. Bailey is finds him rude but gives as good as he does.
Ryder doesn't have time for anything in his life but paying back his debts. He needs to get back on his feet and try to make amends for what happened. He meets Bailey he is attracted to her. He tries to keep his distance but he knows he can't. Ryder and Bailey grow closer but he has not told her about his past. Ryder will be putting Bailey in danger because of it. Will Ryder allow love to help fix him or will just stop fighting

This is a powerful story to read. Ryder with his health issues and Bailey with all that has happened to her. There are some really emotional moments in this book. I recommend reading this book.

[Janet Welling · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good story, special topic

This story is as much about the hero as it is about the heroine. Heather MacKinnon deals with a problem that many people struggle with on a daily basis. The story is very realistic, especially from Ryder's point of view. Everything that he goes through is very honest and believable. Bailey is an amazingly strong and kind person. She is that one person who has your back without question. The one person that everyone needs in their life. I applaud the author's subject matter and the way she wrote the characters. My only complaint is that the book is too long and as a result becomes quite boring in places. The last 30 percent of the story is excellent but the first 70 percent just drags. I think a good editor would be able to cut out a lot of the unnecessary wordiness and help make the story really impactful.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author was new to me do when I won this book I was eager to see if I would have a new author to add to my must read lists. I am glad to report that I do! The book is written in a relatable manner that keeps your interest through the entire story.

Ryder and his Sunshine take you on a journey of not only falling in love, but pushing forward on days you want to give up. It's about finding someone to hold your hand when you can't move forward. It's about lightness and darkness finding a balance that conquers the worst days possible.

Ryder and Baileys growth was emotional to read but beautiful. This story will make you stop and think about what people deal with on a daily basis. The struggles they face on their own out of guilt or embarrassment. To find that someone to face the demons with is truly magical. And that's what Ryder and Sunshine are- pure magic!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather creates such deep and relatable characters it is easy to get completely lost in the story. This was an excellent romance that touched on mental health and also does an excellent job of fighting off the stigma surrounding mental health issues. I absolutely adored the complexity of both Ryder and Baylie each were amazingly strong characters yet they had their faults and baggage to overcome. My favorite part was that their love story wasn’t too easy, Heather is incredible at making her characters and their lives so relatable and not too cheesy.

In reading this book you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll be angry with the characters, you’ll be cheering them on. A whole whirlwind of emotions is evoked in this book which is wonderful, I adore a book that can make me feel.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first novel in a new series from this talented author, and my word, she blew me away! Bailey and Ryder are like petrol and a match when they first meet, but they are unable to deny the attraction between them. This author had done a wonderful job in writing this tale and with such sensitivity surrounding the stigma of mental health. This is a beautifully written story, which is emotional, heartbreaking, steamy, and an all round real and relatable read. I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more in this brilliant series. I highly recommend this authors’ work for all.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

So Good!!!

This book was an amazing read. The characters were down to earth, they were very relatable, not only as people, but their every day issues as well. Also, they were just fantastic and loveable characters. I love how Ms. MacKinnon was able to bring mental health issues to the forefront in a romance book. This is an every day issue that most people deal with and to see it being written about in a normal, as well as positive, way is very refreshing. Send Sunshine will indeed bring some Sunshine into your life! Definitely recommend for anyone who enjoys a very well written romance!

[Lesley Banks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well what can I say about this book, it kept me wanting more and I didn't want it to end. It draws you in with the main characters and waiting to find out about their individual stories. Hot and steamy but it never loses touch with the story line. A great read. Heather really gets into the characters backgrounds and explains it so well, leaving you to want more. This story gets you right from the beginning drawing you in to find out more. It explains alot about mental health and how it can rule your life if you let it. Can't wait to read more from Heather.

[Kelly Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This was a great story with a lot of build up. This story if the definition of true love an sticking it out through thick and thin. This story deals with a difficult topic and does so with maturity and knowledge. I really enjoyed Ryder and Bailey's story. It grabbed me from the beginning and but the end, I was sad it was over. I loved that Bailey was strong enough to deal and didn't leave. I don't want to spoil the story but this was a great book that I totally recommend.

[zen_s · Rating 1 out of 5]

[1.25 star] don't really like the book. i think its a little too long-winded. also the heroine felt doormat-ish when it comes to her father. she dont want to attend her half-sister birthday party but couldnt say no. her father disrespect her at the half-sister party, she just cry and took off without even confronting her father, the hero gotta stand up & speak up for her. and when her father call her to apologise, she just happily forgive him like nothing happens.

sorry, but i am not someone who forgive nor forget so she is not the kind of heroine i like.

[Tt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Such a good book with real life issues and struggles. Ry, the H, is all in for Bailey before he even realizes it. He cannot get enough of her but he struggles everyday with his own demons and things that are hard to control. I don’t really think that his character truly understood his issues until much later in the book.this book touches on such overlooked health issues that it was informative and touching. This couple was just so good together that I would love to have the author do another book with them to check in on life as their relationship progresses.

[poppy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved Bailey and Ryder's story it is the first book in the series and it was a fantastic read. These two meet when she goes to work at a friend's stable they clash at first but are still attracted to each other and the more time they spend together the stronger those feelings become. But both of them have their own baggage they need to work through. This was a wonderful read and a super start to the series.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 1st book I’ve read written by Heather MacKinnon; she has done a good job at writing a good book. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the chemistry between the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Natasha Carrere · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when I find a new author and fall in love when their stories! What a roller coaster of a story! I feel in love with Bailey and Ryder. The struggle, the love and the heartbreak was felt so much while reading that I wasn’t ready for it.

I love when an author will bring a serious subject matter into a book and give a a perspective that you probably never would of had before.

This book was so good and I know I’ll be keeping my eye out for this authors next books!

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I love when I find a new author and fall in love when their stories! What a roller coaster of a story! I feel in love with Bailey and Ryder. The struggle, the love and the heartbreak was felt so much while reading that I wasn’t ready for it.

I love when an author will bring a serious subject matter into a book and give a a perspective that you probably never would of had before.

This book was so good and I know I’ll be keeping my eye out for this authors next books!
"

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bailey Woods does not have much of a social life. When she goes to a graduation party for her co-workers daughter and ends up volunteering on a farm her whole life is about to change! Ryder MacAlister has rules that he lives by. When the beautiful woman shows up to his job his world is turned on its head and some of those rules are broken. Loved this story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pauline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bailey has sworn off men after yet another disappointment, but when she meets Ryder their chemistry is undeniable. When she agrees to help a sick horse, she meets Ryder and the connection between them is intense on both a physical and emotional level. This book is well written, the story flowed and the characters had depth and made you want to root for them. This is the first book in Heather Mackinnon's new series and I would thoroughly recommend it. Looking forward to more in the series.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot tell you how much I love this book. Mental health is an issue today and the author kept it real. Life is tough as it is without having extra issues to deal with. With this book I smiled, laughed and cried. Ryder and Bailey are great together. This is so worth the time to read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a emotional book with some hard issues to overcome. Ryder and Bailey were perfect for each other and I enjoyed watching them work through the issues of mental illness. Great story with wonderful characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I looooved this book! It did take a little bit for me to really get into it but once I got into it I couldn’t stop. It was such a roller coaster of emotions for me, I pretty much cried through half of the book. Sad and happy tears! Ryder and Bailey have such a unique relationship. I’m ready to read the book again!