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Heartsville #2
First Light
Two years after the death of his wife, Aubrey Hendricks is still weighed down by grief. He can’t focus on anything beyond working at the family farm, First Light. At the urging of a friend, he takes a step toward resuming a normal life and reopens the bakery his wife once ran. He places a Help Wanted ad in the local paper, and to his surprise, an applicant shows up the next day.
When Oliver Hansen gets a second chance at life, he grasps it with both hands. Leaving his stressful life in New York, he plans to enjoy the simpler things. Driving to Heartsville in the Pocono Mountains to thank his heart donor’s widower is a top priority. But the brusque man with the melancholy eyes strikes a chord in Oliver. So when Aubrey mistakenly believes he’s there to apply for the bakery job…Oliver takes him up on the offer.
As Oliver busies himself with the grand reopening, he and Aubrey establish a tentative friendship, which soon shifts to blazing attraction. Oliver falls hard for him, yet he can’t help but wonder if Aubrey’s feelings are an attempt to maintain a connection to the wife he’s still mourning. And Aubrey is unsure if Oliver will tire of the slow pace in Heartsville and go running back to the city he loves. The two must successfully navigate the stormy waters of grief, doubt, and their very different lifestyles, or they risk losing both their hearts—again.
*Please note: This is in the same world as our MMM, LAST CALL, except FIRST LIGHT is MM and a complete standalone.
When Oliver Hansen gets a second chance at life, he grasps it with both hands. Leaving his stressful life in New York, he plans to enjoy the simpler things. Driving to Heartsville in the Pocono Mountains to thank his heart donor’s widower is a top priority. But the brusque man with the melancholy eyes strikes a chord in Oliver. So when Aubrey mistakenly believes he’s there to apply for the bakery job…Oliver takes him up on the offer.
As Oliver busies himself with the grand reopening, he and Aubrey establish a tentative friendship, which soon shifts to blazing attraction. Oliver falls hard for him, yet he can’t help but wonder if Aubrey’s feelings are an attempt to maintain a connection to the wife he’s still mourning. And Aubrey is unsure if Oliver will tire of the slow pace in Heartsville and go running back to the city he loves. The two must successfully navigate the stormy waters of grief, doubt, and their very different lifestyles, or they risk losing both their hearts—again.
*Please note: This is in the same world as our MMM, LAST CALL, except FIRST LIGHT is MM and a complete standalone.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2018
215 people are currently reading
438 people want to read
About the author
Christina Lee
58 books2,149 followersChristina writes romance in different sub-genres, mostly with LGBTQ characters, not only because she's part of the community, but because representation matters, and everyone deserves a happily-ever-after.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
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November 9, 2022
First Light is book two in the Heartsville series by Christina Lee and Felice Stevens. I adored the first book in this series, Last Call and am finally getting around to reading this second book and I’m so glad I finally did. It’s just wonderful.
Aubrey Hendricks is forty five years old and owns and runs the First Light farm, a produce farm which not only grows many vegetables but also has strawberry fields, apple trees and so much more. Aubrey grew up on the farm, married and loved his wife Lisa there. Lisa ran the bakery on the farm until her tragic death two years ago in an accident. Ever since, Aubrey has lived in a sort of black hole, working himself to the bone during the day in hopes of exhausting himself so he might be able to sleep at night. He had finally decided to re-open the bakery and had placed a help wanted ad for a new baker. That’s when Oliver showed up for the first time. For the job, or at least that’s what he thought.
Oliver Hansen was a successful mergers and acquisitions attorney in New York, working long hours, barely ever seeing his apartment. Until he got sick. He needed a heart transplant. When the day finally came and a heart was available, it was the start of a new life for him. Now two years later he wants to thank the widow of his donor. When he drove onto First Light, he instantly felt a peace he’d never felt before. And when the gorgeous owner, the man who lost his wife so that Oliver could live, mistakenly thought he was there to apply for the baker position for the bakery, Oliver decided it must be a sign. That he was needed here at First Light. He would tell Aubrey the truth as to why he was really there, soon.
Aubrey had never been able to get past his grief, using the farm as his only distraction. But when he was near Oliver, everything just seemed to settle. Aubrey felt stirrings of something that had been gone since the day his wife died, attraction. Oliver was intensely attracted to Aubrey but he also knew the man was in pain. So he offered his friendship, hoping that in some way he could help Aubrey to move on. He also was weighed down every day with his secret. Oliver’s days were filled with getting the bakery ready for opening day but Oliver knew that he needed to share the real reason he had come to First Light. After Aubrey found out the truth, would he even want him to stay?
This really was such a beautiful story of healing and of finding love. For Oliver, it was a new life, one he never imagined for himself, and his first real true love. For Aubrey, it was also the start of a new life, a life filled with a second love. Both men came to rely on one another, and couldn’t imagine their lives without the other. There are still plenty of hurdles that they will need to overcome, though, before they can find their happy ever after together. Christina and Felice make a wonderful writing duo and I have enjoyed both of these books so much.
“He’d come out from the depths of a long, cold journey, and Oliver was his sunlight, warming him back to life.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Aubrey Hendricks is forty five years old and owns and runs the First Light farm, a produce farm which not only grows many vegetables but also has strawberry fields, apple trees and so much more. Aubrey grew up on the farm, married and loved his wife Lisa there. Lisa ran the bakery on the farm until her tragic death two years ago in an accident. Ever since, Aubrey has lived in a sort of black hole, working himself to the bone during the day in hopes of exhausting himself so he might be able to sleep at night. He had finally decided to re-open the bakery and had placed a help wanted ad for a new baker. That’s when Oliver showed up for the first time. For the job, or at least that’s what he thought.
Oliver Hansen was a successful mergers and acquisitions attorney in New York, working long hours, barely ever seeing his apartment. Until he got sick. He needed a heart transplant. When the day finally came and a heart was available, it was the start of a new life for him. Now two years later he wants to thank the widow of his donor. When he drove onto First Light, he instantly felt a peace he’d never felt before. And when the gorgeous owner, the man who lost his wife so that Oliver could live, mistakenly thought he was there to apply for the baker position for the bakery, Oliver decided it must be a sign. That he was needed here at First Light. He would tell Aubrey the truth as to why he was really there, soon.
Aubrey had never been able to get past his grief, using the farm as his only distraction. But when he was near Oliver, everything just seemed to settle. Aubrey felt stirrings of something that had been gone since the day his wife died, attraction. Oliver was intensely attracted to Aubrey but he also knew the man was in pain. So he offered his friendship, hoping that in some way he could help Aubrey to move on. He also was weighed down every day with his secret. Oliver’s days were filled with getting the bakery ready for opening day but Oliver knew that he needed to share the real reason he had come to First Light. After Aubrey found out the truth, would he even want him to stay?
This really was such a beautiful story of healing and of finding love. For Oliver, it was a new life, one he never imagined for himself, and his first real true love. For Aubrey, it was also the start of a new life, a life filled with a second love. Both men came to rely on one another, and couldn’t imagine their lives without the other. There are still plenty of hurdles that they will need to overcome, though, before they can find their happy ever after together. Christina and Felice make a wonderful writing duo and I have enjoyed both of these books so much.
“He’d come out from the depths of a long, cold journey, and Oliver was his sunlight, warming him back to life.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
December 2, 2018
~3.5~
I prefer Christina Lee writing alone or with Riley Hart to Christina Lee writing with Felice Stevens, but I liked this book more than the first Heartsville story. It wasn't nearly as angsty or maudlin. Even the dead spouse trope wasn't overdone.
By the time Oliver arrived, Aubrey had been grieving for two years. He missed his wife and hadn't made an effort to date or get out of the house, but was slowly moving on.
I appreciated that Oliver's secret didn't stay one throughout the entire story and understood why Oliver hesitated to tell Aubrey that he was the recipient of Lisa's heart. Aubrey wasn't exactly approachable and didn't react well when Oliver finally screwed his courage to the sticking place and confessed.
Also, Aubrey was bi and didn't hide being bi, so there was no unnecessary drama with him denying his attraction to a man.
I didn't think the MCs had particularly great chemistry—there was something wooden about their interactions, not just with each other but with secondary characters like Oliver's assistant Casey—but the story isn't lacking in steam or tenderness, and the epilogue offers a tentative HEA.
I like the idea of hot shot lawyer turned small town baker, and I believe that someone who got a second chance at life would want to get out of the rat race, but this book is set in America: America, you guys, AMERICA, where. There. Is. NO. UNIVERSAL. HEALTHCARE. Capisci?
No sane person, no matter how much money they had put away, would quit their job and thereby lose their health insurance when they had just undergone organ transplant surgery. Oliver's savings would have been wiped out in a couple years, and he wouldn't have been driving a fancy Mercedes and keeping a flat in New York City.
The cost of immunosuppressant drugs WITH decent insurance is upwards of $2,500 per moth. Without insurance it's at least four times that. Never mind the doctor visits, and possibility of serious side effects, infection, and transplanted organ failure.
I make a real effort to keep my fiction shades on when reading romance, but I couldn't let this one go. There was barely a mention of Oliver's drug regime, for example. He would casually sleep over at Aubrey's house, and I would be internally screaming, Dude, where the hell is your medication? I mean, he would have been taking an arsenal of pills two to three times each day.
Sorry to be a downer, but the authors should have set the story in Canada if they wanted the plot to be believable. Rounding down for this reason.
I prefer Christina Lee writing alone or with Riley Hart to Christina Lee writing with Felice Stevens, but I liked this book more than the first Heartsville story. It wasn't nearly as angsty or maudlin. Even the dead spouse trope wasn't overdone.
By the time Oliver arrived, Aubrey had been grieving for two years. He missed his wife and hadn't made an effort to date or get out of the house, but was slowly moving on.
I appreciated that Oliver's secret didn't stay one throughout the entire story and understood why Oliver hesitated to tell Aubrey that he was the recipient of Lisa's heart. Aubrey wasn't exactly approachable and didn't react well when Oliver finally screwed his courage to the sticking place and confessed.
Also, Aubrey was bi and didn't hide being bi, so there was no unnecessary drama with him denying his attraction to a man.
I didn't think the MCs had particularly great chemistry—there was something wooden about their interactions, not just with each other but with secondary characters like Oliver's assistant Casey—but the story isn't lacking in steam or tenderness, and the epilogue offers a tentative HEA.
I like the idea of hot shot lawyer turned small town baker, and I believe that someone who got a second chance at life would want to get out of the rat race, but this book is set in America: America, you guys, AMERICA, where. There. Is. NO. UNIVERSAL. HEALTHCARE. Capisci?
No sane person, no matter how much money they had put away, would quit their job and thereby lose their health insurance when they had just undergone organ transplant surgery. Oliver's savings would have been wiped out in a couple years, and he wouldn't have been driving a fancy Mercedes and keeping a flat in New York City.
The cost of immunosuppressant drugs WITH decent insurance is upwards of $2,500 per moth. Without insurance it's at least four times that. Never mind the doctor visits, and possibility of serious side effects, infection, and transplanted organ failure.
I make a real effort to keep my fiction shades on when reading romance, but I couldn't let this one go. There was barely a mention of Oliver's drug regime, for example. He would casually sleep over at Aubrey's house, and I would be internally screaming, Dude, where the hell is your medication? I mean, he would have been taking an arsenal of pills two to three times each day.
Sorry to be a downer, but the authors should have set the story in Canada if they wanted the plot to be believable. Rounding down for this reason.
December 8, 2018
I'm gonna be honest here and admit to not having read the first book in this series, "Last Call". I don't exactly know why, since I often read books out of order. I will probably go back at some point and catch up. Thankfully this one can be read as a stand-alone.
When I started this one I was a bit worried since this book has one of my least favorite tropes..." the deceased spouse". I shouldn't have though, it was all very nicely dealt with. Even though Aubrey was still grieving some, he wasn't wallowing in it and he was ready to move on...
There was some angst but it wasn't as bad as I expected. I think this was mostly because we were dealing with older men...NOT OLD...just older ;) I also think the purpose of the story was beautiful..I won't go into it further because of spoilers, but I thought it was a very beautiful thing...
This was a very sweet, slow burn, but for some reason, there was something missing for me... I can't put my finger on it, but it stops me from giving it a full 4 stars...
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April 30, 2019
Audio - 5 stars
Story - 3 stars
This is the kind of story that should have left me wreck, but it didn't. A grieving widower falls for the recipient of his wife's heart. How can it not be a highly emotional read?? But it just wasn't for me. Oh well...
Story - 3 stars
This is the kind of story that should have left me wreck, but it didn't. A grieving widower falls for the recipient of his wife's heart. How can it not be a highly emotional read?? But it just wasn't for me. Oh well...
September 12, 2020
Re-read Sept. 11, 2020 Loved it again !
***** This story is going to sound highly unlikely, but it's so exciting and romantic, so intense and rewarding.
Oliver, 45, had a heart transplant and goes to see the donor family to thank them.
Oliver was a lawyer who left his job to learn culinary skills after his life changing event two years ago. When he meets the gruff farm owner, Aubrey,
also about 45, he chickens out on telling him, but he does agree to accept the bakery job offer on the farm.
We feel deeply for each man and all that they have been through. Our guys deserve the best, and they find it in each other. They are friends first. Even after Aubrey is told
by Oliver about his story, their emotions are a slow burn.
Aubrey is bi, but has never told anyone but his past wife. He's been married to her 20 years of a devoted happy life.
Now, he will try to figure out if he can do a relationship with Oliver. Oliver is a great guy/baker. Aubrey is a strong man and farmer. These two are sizzling hot in their sexual times.
Watching their journey and a few conflicts is a real sweet adventure.
It's beautifully written, completely engaging, and worthwhile.
A lovely story, I highly recommend. ENJOY !
===========
***** This story is going to sound highly unlikely, but it's so exciting and romantic, so intense and rewarding.
Oliver, 45, had a heart transplant and goes to see the donor family to thank them.
Oliver was a lawyer who left his job to learn culinary skills after his life changing event two years ago. When he meets the gruff farm owner, Aubrey,
also about 45, he chickens out on telling him, but he does agree to accept the bakery job offer on the farm.
We feel deeply for each man and all that they have been through. Our guys deserve the best, and they find it in each other. They are friends first. Even after Aubrey is told
by Oliver about his story, their emotions are a slow burn.
Aubrey is bi, but has never told anyone but his past wife. He's been married to her 20 years of a devoted happy life.
Now, he will try to figure out if he can do a relationship with Oliver. Oliver is a great guy/baker. Aubrey is a strong man and farmer. These two are sizzling hot in their sexual times.
Watching their journey and a few conflicts is a real sweet adventure.
It's beautifully written, completely engaging, and worthwhile.
A lovely story, I highly recommend. ENJOY !
===========
Read
November 28, 20184.5 stars
The premise of First Light is definitely one I hadn't read before and the authors had me invested in the story from the start.
There was less angst and drama than I expected from the blurb, but there was plenty of tension in the first part of the book. When Oliver finally admits his situation to Aubrey, it was both heartbreaking and beautiful. I'm glad the secret wasn't dragged on for too long so that there was plenty of time for the men to build their relationship from friends to lovers.
Aubrey starts off gruff, he's a man who is just beginning to take steps to move on after grieving for two years. Oliver is determined to get to know Aubrey and coax him into an actual friendship. The attraction is there, but it's a slow burn with so much to overcome. Both men are a bit older and have pasts that have a big impact on going forward. l loved that they acted their ages and talked. Once things did move forward they had great chemistry and there were plenty of sexy and romantic scenes.
Felice Stevens and Christina Lee collaborate seamlessly. It's well-written and paced. The relationship wasn't rushed and the questions that came up along the way were natural. Could Oliver be happy trading in his fast-paced life for the quite of the country? Could Aubrey put aside his grief and love Oliver for the man he is, not for the part of Lisa that lived on in him? Add in some nasty family and some pushy/protective family and there are enough reasons for the whole thing to fall apart.
The only real thing stopping me from giving it a full five stars was that I wanted to see a little more of Aubrey and Oliver dealing with the concern of does he want me or does he want that final connection to his wife. While it absolutely was addressed, and I believed in their relationship, I personally wanted it hashed out on-page just a bit more (but then again, I'm big on angst and drama so...).
Although set in the same series as Last Call, this story is a standalone with some passing appearances by Quinn, Gray and Emery. I liked this one even more than the first and I'm looking forward to more stories from Heartsville.
The premise of First Light is definitely one I hadn't read before and the authors had me invested in the story from the start.
There was less angst and drama than I expected from the blurb, but there was plenty of tension in the first part of the book. When Oliver finally admits his situation to Aubrey, it was both heartbreaking and beautiful. I'm glad the secret wasn't dragged on for too long so that there was plenty of time for the men to build their relationship from friends to lovers.
Aubrey starts off gruff, he's a man who is just beginning to take steps to move on after grieving for two years. Oliver is determined to get to know Aubrey and coax him into an actual friendship. The attraction is there, but it's a slow burn with so much to overcome. Both men are a bit older and have pasts that have a big impact on going forward. l loved that they acted their ages and talked. Once things did move forward they had great chemistry and there were plenty of sexy and romantic scenes.
Felice Stevens and Christina Lee collaborate seamlessly. It's well-written and paced. The relationship wasn't rushed and the questions that came up along the way were natural. Could Oliver be happy trading in his fast-paced life for the quite of the country? Could Aubrey put aside his grief and love Oliver for the man he is, not for the part of Lisa that lived on in him? Add in some nasty family and some pushy/protective family and there are enough reasons for the whole thing to fall apart.
The only real thing stopping me from giving it a full five stars was that I wanted to see a little more of Aubrey and Oliver dealing with the concern of does he want me or does he want that final connection to his wife. While it absolutely was addressed, and I believed in their relationship, I personally wanted it hashed out on-page just a bit more (but then again, I'm big on angst and drama so...).
Although set in the same series as Last Call, this story is a standalone with some passing appearances by Quinn, Gray and Emery. I liked this one even more than the first and I'm looking forward to more stories from Heartsville.
December 3, 2018
First Light by Christina Lee & Felice Stevens is a story about new beginnings. Oliver is leaving the rat race of a big city and spontaneously starting over in a new place, and Aubrey is slowly moving on from the death of his wife two years earlier.
Highlights:
-Mature main characters. Both men are in their 40s and act like it. They respected each other and communicated.
-Going in I thought this would be angst central, but it wasn't. Yes, there are some definite feels but nothing overwhelming. There was a pivotal point that had me crying.
-There is a secret at the start that I was afraid would be dragged on, but it didn't. Thank you to the authors for that.
-Relationship development- it felt organic starting as friends and growing into more.
-Bi representation.
-I felt that the problems that arose didn't feel contrived or overdone.
-The end was an HEA.
**This being a second book, can it be read as standalone? Absolutely.
All in all, this was a touching story about taking chances, new beginnings and finding love when least expected.
4 Stars
November 28, 2018
I loved this book. Focusing on a subject which is sensitive and laced with all kinds of potential problems, in the hands of this pair of authors we're given a gentle slow burn romance between two older MCs with an unusual connection.
Not once did I feel like Aubrey's reactions and behaviours were over the top or out of the ordinary, his response to finding out his dead wife's heart beat inside the chest of the man he was starting to have feelings for was visceral and the emotions jumped off the page straight into my brain.
I loved Oliver, kind and hopeful Oliver, who didn't expect to find a new home when he went searching for his donor's family. Watching him fall in love not only with Aubrey, but with the small town and the people who inhabited it was beautiful.
There's guest appearances from Quinn, Gray and Emery from Last Call and I loved seeing them all as happy as they were at the end of their own romance.
The narrative isn't all just one tone though, not everything is sweetness and light, and I really got very annoyed with Aubrey's dead wife's sister for her attitude towards him which I thought the authors handled really well.
Oliver's sister's interference also worked to help bring tensions which felt organic to the narrative rather than plot driven for drama's sake, and the pacing felt good for the unexpected outcome of her appearance.
All in all, a great second book in this series from Christina and Felice. I look forward to seeing where it's going next.
#ARC kindly provided by the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review
Not once did I feel like Aubrey's reactions and behaviours were over the top or out of the ordinary, his response to finding out his dead wife's heart beat inside the chest of the man he was starting to have feelings for was visceral and the emotions jumped off the page straight into my brain.
I loved Oliver, kind and hopeful Oliver, who didn't expect to find a new home when he went searching for his donor's family. Watching him fall in love not only with Aubrey, but with the small town and the people who inhabited it was beautiful.
There's guest appearances from Quinn, Gray and Emery from Last Call and I loved seeing them all as happy as they were at the end of their own romance.
The narrative isn't all just one tone though, not everything is sweetness and light, and I really got very annoyed with Aubrey's dead wife's sister for her attitude towards him which I thought the authors handled really well.
Oliver's sister's interference also worked to help bring tensions which felt organic to the narrative rather than plot driven for drama's sake, and the pacing felt good for the unexpected outcome of her appearance.
All in all, a great second book in this series from Christina and Felice. I look forward to seeing where it's going next.
#ARC kindly provided by the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review
January 15, 2019
I really loved this - it was sweet, warm and wonderfully romantic. The build of relationship made me happy and I could totally empathize with the characters. This was a second chance at love story and while it was nothing out of the ordinary I just seemed to click and could feel every emotion. There was a sweetness to this story that had me wishing for their happiness.
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November 25, 2018 Look what's already LIVE! ❤️ #aubreyandoliver
#hurtcomfort #heartsvilleseries #completestandalone
Amazon (KU): https://amzn.to/2OYC79r
Universal Link: mybook.to/FirstLight
#hurtcomfort #heartsvilleseries #completestandalone
Amazon (KU): https://amzn.to/2OYC79r
Universal Link: mybook.to/FirstLight
January 11, 2022
Read this book as part of the 2019 Members' Choice Awards Challenge.
Categories: Best Blue Collar
Categories: Best Blue Collar
November 26, 2018
Its' quite forgettable kind of story.
I love Christina Lees' writing, no fault there! The story was not remarkable. But one positive was that the story did not hinge on Oliver not able to revel his heart secret. Read many stories where the MC hides a secret and the whole story is about how the other MC takes the news. This book does not take that direction (it would have disappointed me)!
I loved the first book in the series so had high hope for second one.
I love Christina Lees' writing, no fault there! The story was not remarkable. But one positive was that the story did not hinge on Oliver not able to revel his heart secret. Read many stories where the MC hides a secret and the whole story is about how the other MC takes the news. This book does not take that direction (it would have disappointed me)!
I loved the first book in the series so had high hope for second one.
November 25, 2018
4.5*
I found First Light to be a really lovely love story of second chances and finding love after loss. It’s emotional and heartfelt, and features two very endearing characters. It's a story that will make you believe in fate.
Aubrey is still dealing with the grief over the loss of his wife two years ago when Oliver shows up at Aubrey’s farm, intent on thanking him for his wife’s gift of life. Things don’t quite go as Oliver planned, and he finds himself in deeper than expected. But as the hesitant friendship that forms between Aubrey and Oliver slowly morphs into something much more than either of them had been looking for, there’s no turning back.
***While this is book 2 in the Heartsville series it can definitely be read as a standalone, although I do recommend reading Last Call- it's a terrific mmm romance!
I found First Light to be a really lovely love story of second chances and finding love after loss. It’s emotional and heartfelt, and features two very endearing characters. It's a story that will make you believe in fate.
Aubrey is still dealing with the grief over the loss of his wife two years ago when Oliver shows up at Aubrey’s farm, intent on thanking him for his wife’s gift of life. Things don’t quite go as Oliver planned, and he finds himself in deeper than expected. But as the hesitant friendship that forms between Aubrey and Oliver slowly morphs into something much more than either of them had been looking for, there’s no turning back.
***While this is book 2 in the Heartsville series it can definitely be read as a standalone, although I do recommend reading Last Call- it's a terrific mmm romance!
February 15, 2023
Overall book rating: 4
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
I didn't take this long to read this book. I out and out forgot
to mark it as read.
I really enjoyed it. I loved the whole idea behind it, it makes
me feel all Hallmark warm and fuzzy.
I liked the characters and the feel of the story.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
I didn't take this long to read this book. I out and out forgot
to mark it as read.
I really enjoyed it. I loved the whole idea behind it, it makes
me feel all Hallmark warm and fuzzy.
I liked the characters and the feel of the story.
November 26, 2018
“It’s never been more right than it is now. With you. Now you’re here, and it’s like you’ve breathed life back into my body.” – Aubrey
☕☕☕
Sometimes the road of life takes an unexpected turn and you have no choice but to follow it to end up in a place you are supposed to be… - Unknown.
And that’s what actually happen to Oliver. He come to Heartsville with one purpose, to meet with a person who had given him a second chance but mistakenly took as the new baker by First Light owner, Aubrey.
There’s something in Aubrey's sad eyes that intrigued Oliver and suddenly a new mission grow in Oliver mind, he want to help the man and brought the sunshine back into Aubrey’s life…
First Light is not only a story about a farmer and a lawyers turned a baker, but also a beautiful heart warming journey of love between a heart transplant recipient and the donor's widower. Fate then brought the two stranger from different world together and falling in love…
The writing is beautiful with good plot and slow burn pace, the main characters are very lovable and leave very deep impression in me. I love seeing the change from grouchy and lonely Aubrey to playful Aubrey when he's with Oliver and I also love how Oliver show the man how to live again. Love the dynamic and chemistry between these two and I really enjoying every moments when they slowly growing their feeling and how they build the relationship with strong connection from pure friendship to lovers. Everything feels so natural, believable and perfect!
Their journey to the happiness was not easy, they still must face some obstacles from self doubt, their own insecurities that haunt both Oliver and Aubrey life and also the secret Oliver brought with him, but again I love how they solve their conflicts through communication and finally have courage to confess what they really want. Both Oliver and Aubrey deserve to have their own happiness after what they been through and grab the second chance given to them and cherish the life together. Who knows that fate has put them in the circle of live through grief and another love?
First Light is a beautiful, heart warming story that will warmed your winter this year.
Last but not least, I do really enjoy the glimpse of Quinn, Gray and Emery from Last Call , it made me miss the guys A LOT…
Highly recommended!
*ARC is kindly provided by the Author in exchange of a fair, unbiased and honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2018
When a book choked you up and made you cry like you're losing someone you loved dearly, it deserved five stars, and First Light was one of the most realistic second chance romance and this book gave me a hungover!
If you are familiar with Felice and Christina's writing I knew that you'll savor this like me.
I'm not usually liked it when the main character still mourned his wife when he met the other main character, I usually lost interest. But I didn't know how these author made me liked it. Loving it even.
Aubrey and Oliver met (I think), by fate, and in an awkward situation. But somehow, the two of them managed to make the most of the situation. It was a win-win for both of them at first.
I liked the slow burn between Oliver and Aubrey, it wast just made sense, you know.
All the confusion, the doubt, and the attraction they felt for each other, tugged my heart and made me sad and wanted to wrap them in the bubble.
There's no real drama, low angst, and sweet. Aubrey and Oliver solved their differences, and their fear, in an adult way. They talked.
All in all, I enjoyed Aubrey and Oliver and I can't recommend you enough to read this book, especially if you are Felice and Christina's fan.
More thoughts to come.
November 25, 2018
First Light (Heartsville #2/KU) by Christina Lee and Felice Stevens is a beautiful, slow burn, friends to lovers, emotional read. Aubrey and Oliver have both been through extremely difficult moments in their lives which has brought them together, and in turn, an unexpected friendship develops. I have to say that I am a big fan of stories with older MC’s and the manner in which they handle unforeseen issues that arise. I’m also a fan of their confidence in the bedroom, the kitchen, the living room or at the pond. LOL 🔥 Although this book is #2 in the series, it is a complete standalone. It was so nice to visit with Emery, Gage and Quinn as well. I do recommend you read First Call (Heartsville #1) as it is an excellent MMM story.
December 2, 2018
Wonderful
When these two women team up to write a book the result is nothing short of wonderful. This story was sweet and sexy and I didn’t want to put it down. I loved Oliver’s patience with Aubrey as he navigated the changes that Oliver’s presence in Heartsville brought. Their building chemistry within the story really drew me in. I could really feel the love between Oliver and Aubrey. Their story was amazing and I’d love to read more books from the characters in Heartsville.
When these two women team up to write a book the result is nothing short of wonderful. This story was sweet and sexy and I didn’t want to put it down. I loved Oliver’s patience with Aubrey as he navigated the changes that Oliver’s presence in Heartsville brought. Their building chemistry within the story really drew me in. I could really feel the love between Oliver and Aubrey. Their story was amazing and I’d love to read more books from the characters in Heartsville.
December 12, 2018
What a writing dream team! Felice Stevens and Christina Lee hit this one out of the park.
First Light's, plot, characters and scenery were pure perfection!! I could not get enough...
I loved it soooooo much. It gave me all the feels!
My heart was bursting with joy. While I swooned my way through the entire book.
Aubrey and Oliver were the SWEETEST!!! Such special characters. I adored their unique and complex journey.
This book is definitely on my favorites list now!
First Light's, plot, characters and scenery were pure perfection!! I could not get enough...
I loved it soooooo much. It gave me all the feels!
My heart was bursting with joy. While I swooned my way through the entire book.
Aubrey and Oliver were the SWEETEST!!! Such special characters. I adored their unique and complex journey.
This book is definitely on my favorites list now!
November 26, 2018
PERFECTION. I"ll write a review though I think I can sum it up in two words MUST READ, or in three words GRAB IT NOW. I knew this book is going to be awesome not only because I trust Christina, but also because I loved "Last Call", the previous book in this series, together with Felice. It was different, yet the most important things stayed the same - wonderful writing, beautiful and tender story, and characters who are here not only to get their HEA but to evolve and grow in the process. It was almost a "slow burn" in the way the friendship between Aubrey and Oliver progressed and I loved it to pieces. So let's make a deal, okay? Order it, then come back here and I'll tell you my thoughts in more than 2 or 3 words.
Are you back yet? you're here? Great! Let's start at the beginning...
Two years ago both Aubrey Hendricks and Oliver Hansen's lives changed. It was the difference between life and death. The life of Lisa - Aubrey's wife - in exchange for Oliver's. While Aubrey sunk into himself, barely living, going through the motions and working as hard as he can in his farm, Oliver discovered life with the new heart he was gifted from Lisa through her organ donation. He was a successful lawyer, living the life in New York, yet the pace started to feel all wrong. Everything around him felt alien and so he started to look for new things to make him happy like learning to cook and bake even if he has no one to cook or bake for..
Two years later Aubrey is almost in the same place, still lost and aching, yet Oliver is ready for a change though he isn't sure what exactly. It starts with thanking the husband of the woman who gave him her heart. Driving to "First Light" the farm Aubrey and Lisa shared for twenty years before she died in a car accident is the first step but once he is there, the grumpy Aubrey seems too out of reach for Oliver so instead of professing his gratitude he somehow accepts a job. Wait, what? Yep.. Aubrey's first step into some kind of healing is bringing Lisa's love - her bakery - back to life. Seeing a stranger on his property he first assumed Oliver is there for the job he published in the paper.. and when Oliver accepts it's somehow settled.. Though both are quite confused about their own haste decision.
Oliver is ON THE JOB. As he starts working on opening the bakery he realizes how he wants this job to work! This is such a different scenery than his previous life in New York, and yet every minute of it fills him with joy, also getting close to Cassie (Aubrey's worker and his helper in the bakery) and also finding camaraderie with Aubrey. It's a slow process. Aubrey is a quiet guy, who mostly keeps to himself. He wakes up early for work, and returns home at light's end every night. Yet they find time to sit and have a late drink or eating dinner (mostly made by Oliver). The only problem is, Oliver STILL hasn't found the right time to confess to Aubrey WHY he has come to "First Light" in the first place..
The "right" time never actually came so when Oliver found himself confessing it's no wonder it almost broke them apart. It broke my heart as well. Though Oliver himself was hurt by Aubrey's reaction he was still trying to do the "right thing", to give Aubrey the little he can. Oliver's selflessness was making my heart ache. It wasn't just this instance it was all over the place. Oliver truly wanted Aubrey to be happy and it took him a LONG time to be able to ask for the thing that would make HIM happy. Yet with time, it came for both of them.
Once the shock and anger were over Aubrey realized that Lisa's heart beating inside Oliver's chest means NOTHING when it comes to how much he genuinely enjoys Oliver's company. It was so dark for two years and Oliver somehow brought into his life LIGHT and with this light a possibility for so much more.
They are both hesitant. Their friendship isn't totally platonic, things are changing, but they are not rushing it. They are taking their time to get to know one another, to be sure of themselves. Aubrey's life is in the farm, no place else, while Oliver is a city boy who can have so many other options than work at a bakery in the small town of Heartsville. Will Oliver stay with him forever? That Aubrey can't answer, like Oliver can't be sure Aubrey wants him for his OWN heart and not his late wife's..
They get a second chance in life, for Oliver literally, for Aubrey mostly a second chance of love and it's the most beautiful thing. I loved the way EVERYTHING progressed. Slowly slowly and always RIGHT. Taking their time was crucial to build something genuine and that they did. When it was all said and done, when they were ready - the words, the actions - were perfect. I couldn't have asked for a more tender and heart breakingly beautiful story, for more genuine characters. It was, as I've started with - PERFECTION.
One last thing I forgot! Though Emery, Gray and Quinn (from "Last Call") DO appear in this one, it's truly a stand alone.
I kindly received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
More Reviews HERE
Are you back yet? you're here? Great! Let's start at the beginning...
Two years ago both Aubrey Hendricks and Oliver Hansen's lives changed. It was the difference between life and death. The life of Lisa - Aubrey's wife - in exchange for Oliver's. While Aubrey sunk into himself, barely living, going through the motions and working as hard as he can in his farm, Oliver discovered life with the new heart he was gifted from Lisa through her organ donation. He was a successful lawyer, living the life in New York, yet the pace started to feel all wrong. Everything around him felt alien and so he started to look for new things to make him happy like learning to cook and bake even if he has no one to cook or bake for..
Two years later Aubrey is almost in the same place, still lost and aching, yet Oliver is ready for a change though he isn't sure what exactly. It starts with thanking the husband of the woman who gave him her heart. Driving to "First Light" the farm Aubrey and Lisa shared for twenty years before she died in a car accident is the first step but once he is there, the grumpy Aubrey seems too out of reach for Oliver so instead of professing his gratitude he somehow accepts a job. Wait, what? Yep.. Aubrey's first step into some kind of healing is bringing Lisa's love - her bakery - back to life. Seeing a stranger on his property he first assumed Oliver is there for the job he published in the paper.. and when Oliver accepts it's somehow settled.. Though both are quite confused about their own haste decision.
Oliver is ON THE JOB. As he starts working on opening the bakery he realizes how he wants this job to work! This is such a different scenery than his previous life in New York, and yet every minute of it fills him with joy, also getting close to Cassie (Aubrey's worker and his helper in the bakery) and also finding camaraderie with Aubrey. It's a slow process. Aubrey is a quiet guy, who mostly keeps to himself. He wakes up early for work, and returns home at light's end every night. Yet they find time to sit and have a late drink or eating dinner (mostly made by Oliver). The only problem is, Oliver STILL hasn't found the right time to confess to Aubrey WHY he has come to "First Light" in the first place..
The "right" time never actually came so when Oliver found himself confessing it's no wonder it almost broke them apart. It broke my heart as well. Though Oliver himself was hurt by Aubrey's reaction he was still trying to do the "right thing", to give Aubrey the little he can. Oliver's selflessness was making my heart ache. It wasn't just this instance it was all over the place. Oliver truly wanted Aubrey to be happy and it took him a LONG time to be able to ask for the thing that would make HIM happy. Yet with time, it came for both of them.
Once the shock and anger were over Aubrey realized that Lisa's heart beating inside Oliver's chest means NOTHING when it comes to how much he genuinely enjoys Oliver's company. It was so dark for two years and Oliver somehow brought into his life LIGHT and with this light a possibility for so much more.
They are both hesitant. Their friendship isn't totally platonic, things are changing, but they are not rushing it. They are taking their time to get to know one another, to be sure of themselves. Aubrey's life is in the farm, no place else, while Oliver is a city boy who can have so many other options than work at a bakery in the small town of Heartsville. Will Oliver stay with him forever? That Aubrey can't answer, like Oliver can't be sure Aubrey wants him for his OWN heart and not his late wife's..
They get a second chance in life, for Oliver literally, for Aubrey mostly a second chance of love and it's the most beautiful thing. I loved the way EVERYTHING progressed. Slowly slowly and always RIGHT. Taking their time was crucial to build something genuine and that they did. When it was all said and done, when they were ready - the words, the actions - were perfect. I couldn't have asked for a more tender and heart breakingly beautiful story, for more genuine characters. It was, as I've started with - PERFECTION.
One last thing I forgot! Though Emery, Gray and Quinn (from "Last Call") DO appear in this one, it's truly a stand alone.
I kindly received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
More Reviews HERE
November 26, 2018
Unusual Circumstances Bring About Love!
A transplant, French Silk pies, a farm and grief play a part in the Oliver & Aubrey love story. An interesting premise, well written story, well developed MCs and a quaint setting...what’s not to love.
A transplant, French Silk pies, a farm and grief play a part in the Oliver & Aubrey love story. An interesting premise, well written story, well developed MCs and a quaint setting...what’s not to love.
December 17, 2018
Another great story from these two authors.
Love the setting. Love the Aubrey and Oliver. Nice slow burn between these two. Loved all the secondary characters as well. Perfect romantic read!
Love the setting. Love the Aubrey and Oliver. Nice slow burn between these two. Loved all the secondary characters as well. Perfect romantic read!
November 30, 2018
I like this book a lot so far and if things keep going the way they have been, I'll purchase this book as well after having borrowed it from KU :-D!!
****************
Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited.
I will always state when I borrowed something from Kindle Unlimited and whether I purchased it afterward or not! Why? Well, if I've borrowed something from KU, it - by default - means I am very unsure of either the author (if that author is new to me) or that specific book (in general)! I ADORE purchasing and owning my books, BUT for books or authors I'm unsure of, KU is a phenomenal way to try before committing!
Regardless, it means I'm very much on the fence, for whatever reason!
I'll highlight the outcome either way ... I'll either be glad it was on KU so I could give it back, or I'll have ADORED it and will decided to purchase right after borrowing :-)!!
I think it's a nice way to keep track; it might help someone else who's on the fence!
****************
Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited.
I will always state when I borrowed something from Kindle Unlimited and whether I purchased it afterward or not! Why? Well, if I've borrowed something from KU, it - by default - means I am very unsure of either the author (if that author is new to me) or that specific book (in general)! I ADORE purchasing and owning my books, BUT for books or authors I'm unsure of, KU is a phenomenal way to try before committing!
Regardless, it means I'm very much on the fence, for whatever reason!
I'll highlight the outcome either way ... I'll either be glad it was on KU so I could give it back, or I'll have ADORED it and will decided to purchase right after borrowing :-)!!
I think it's a nice way to keep track; it might help someone else who's on the fence!
April 16, 2019
4.5 STARS
I actually really loved this one. It wasn’t totally cliche and there were some nice surprises. We also get to see our three men from Last Call (book 1 of this series) and Oliver and Aubrey were absolutely explosive together!!! Not only that, but so many sweet sweet moments!
I actually really loved this one. It wasn’t totally cliche and there were some nice surprises. We also get to see our three men from Last Call (book 1 of this series) and Oliver and Aubrey were absolutely explosive together!!! Not only that, but so many sweet sweet moments!
Read
November 28, 2018Got bored at 51% fast forwarded to epilogue. Feel like I didn’t miss anything.
November 25, 2018
I really enjoyed this MM romance, I loved the slow maturity of Aubrey and Oliver's romance and the gentle way both men approached it. I liked the support of the secondary characters and the fact that they did not push their thoughts on this emerging romance out into the public arena. I really loved the respect that Oliver showed for Aubrey's grief and adored the big reveal and how the heart of the matter was addressed and resolved. I also enjoyed the way the ladies incorporated the gentle public love of the MCs from book one and the way the men supported Aubrey and Oliver's burgeoning romance.
I definitely did not like Lisa's family and the way they treated Aubrey. I also was really annoyed with Oliver's sister. As a plot device, it definitely helped the reader feel significantly more sympathy for Aubrey and his situation. Unfortunately, there are many grieving families that respond in a similar manner and I think the scenario at whole was addressed well.
On the whole, this is a love story that addresses grief and survival packaged up in sweet, sexy way.
Felice and Christina have a winning partnership here with this series. It's engaging, full of love, respectful and well plotted. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.
I definitely did not like Lisa's family and the way they treated Aubrey. I also was really annoyed with Oliver's sister. As a plot device, it definitely helped the reader feel significantly more sympathy for Aubrey and his situation. Unfortunately, there are many grieving families that respond in a similar manner and I think the scenario at whole was addressed well.
On the whole, this is a love story that addresses grief and survival packaged up in sweet, sexy way.
Felice and Christina have a winning partnership here with this series. It's engaging, full of love, respectful and well plotted. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2018
Awe, the feels, I loved this book. It was sweet , a bit sad , swoony & hot. It was so good I hated to put the book down to get sleep... I loved Oliver & grumpy Aubrey( who's not grumpy any more). Thanks to Oliver. Strangers meeting by a certain degree of importance & one gets a job opportunity from the other & he can't turn down because it's a passion to him & keeps a secret to himself longer then planned. Secrets do come out though & hard times ahead. But they work it out & were so meant to be together. I so didn't want the book to end it was too good.
November 22, 2018
4.5 stars
Aubrey Hendricks is a farmer in Pennsylvania that has been grieving the loss of his wife for two years. But it is a lonely life full of hard work and not much living. He is quiet, broody, tired, and isolates himself. He is just beginning to take little steps towards moving on.
Oliver Hansen's entire life also changed two years ago. He was a high powered lawyer in New York who suffered a major health scare resulting in a heart transplant. So for the past two years he has been finding himself again, taking cooking classes, travelling, and trying to find purpose. One step he is now taking is heading to Heartsville, Pennsylvania to meet one of his donor's families.
And that puts him right at First Light Farm when Aubrey is looking for help to reopen his wife's old bakery. Fate. Destiny. Chance. Either way, Oliver takes on the unexpected new job and begins a fresh start in Heartsville.
Oliver and Aubrey slowly begin to strike up a friendship. They both could use companionship and a connection. And there is this underlying attraction and pull. But Oliver's got his secret and he is not sure how it will be received. And Aubrey has been through a lot and is not great at communication. They also work together, so it is a fragile situation.
This is a slow burn, emotional, passionate story about unexpected love and blessings coming out of tragedy. I loved that these men were mature, intelligent, patient, and in touch with themselves and their needs. I liked seeing the growth and change in them as they started feeling more alive and appreciating newfound happiness. But there are challenges from the real world and personal fears and insecurities that are realistic concerns due to their situation.
They will both have to be brave and take a leap of faith in order to try to move on and learn how to fully live again and find a new normal.
These authors styles flowed well to form a beautiful, heartfelt, friends-to-lovers story with a twist. The main characters were well developed and easy to like. I was glad to get both of their points of view, and felt their connection, confusion, and chemistry. I enjoyed the dichotomy of the farm setting and short stops in New York. I was glad to get more with Quinn, Gray, and Emery from Last Call. Some of the other side characters were supportive and others I wanted to throttle, but it was a unique and emotional situation to navigate.
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim (Rachel and Jay) | Facebook | Twitter
Aubrey Hendricks is a farmer in Pennsylvania that has been grieving the loss of his wife for two years. But it is a lonely life full of hard work and not much living. He is quiet, broody, tired, and isolates himself. He is just beginning to take little steps towards moving on.
Oliver Hansen's entire life also changed two years ago. He was a high powered lawyer in New York who suffered a major health scare resulting in a heart transplant. So for the past two years he has been finding himself again, taking cooking classes, travelling, and trying to find purpose. One step he is now taking is heading to Heartsville, Pennsylvania to meet one of his donor's families.
And that puts him right at First Light Farm when Aubrey is looking for help to reopen his wife's old bakery. Fate. Destiny. Chance. Either way, Oliver takes on the unexpected new job and begins a fresh start in Heartsville.
Oliver and Aubrey slowly begin to strike up a friendship. They both could use companionship and a connection. And there is this underlying attraction and pull. But Oliver's got his secret and he is not sure how it will be received. And Aubrey has been through a lot and is not great at communication. They also work together, so it is a fragile situation.
This is a slow burn, emotional, passionate story about unexpected love and blessings coming out of tragedy. I loved that these men were mature, intelligent, patient, and in touch with themselves and their needs. I liked seeing the growth and change in them as they started feeling more alive and appreciating newfound happiness. But there are challenges from the real world and personal fears and insecurities that are realistic concerns due to their situation.
They will both have to be brave and take a leap of faith in order to try to move on and learn how to fully live again and find a new normal.
These authors styles flowed well to form a beautiful, heartfelt, friends-to-lovers story with a twist. The main characters were well developed and easy to like. I was glad to get both of their points of view, and felt their connection, confusion, and chemistry. I enjoyed the dichotomy of the farm setting and short stops in New York. I was glad to get more with Quinn, Gray, and Emery from Last Call. Some of the other side characters were supportive and others I wanted to throttle, but it was a unique and emotional situation to navigate.
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim (Rachel and Jay) | Facebook | Twitter
December 2, 2018
Beautiful story. Guys are in their 40s and they behave like adults. I really enjoyed this book!
Recommend! Free with Kindle Unlimited
Recommend! Free with Kindle Unlimited
December 9, 2018
Twice loved
What a wonderful love story. Learning to love again,fulfilling dreams and making a new start.
That's what happened to Olivier and Aubrey. Aubrey lost his wife and still two years later he was still grieving. Oliver was the recipient of a doner heart. Which happens to be from Aubrey wife.
Oliver just wanted to thank the family, but a misunderstanding took place and he was now running a bakery and loving it
Trying to tell Aubrey was the hardest thing until he could not put it off any more. This part was beautifully written and the emotions and heartbreak was easy to read on both guys.
Organ donation is so important and it saves lives. Finding a happy ever after is a plus.
What a wonderful love story. Learning to love again,fulfilling dreams and making a new start.
That's what happened to Olivier and Aubrey. Aubrey lost his wife and still two years later he was still grieving. Oliver was the recipient of a doner heart. Which happens to be from Aubrey wife.
Oliver just wanted to thank the family, but a misunderstanding took place and he was now running a bakery and loving it
Trying to tell Aubrey was the hardest thing until he could not put it off any more. This part was beautifully written and the emotions and heartbreak was easy to read on both guys.
Organ donation is so important and it saves lives. Finding a happy ever after is a plus.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews