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Band of Brothers #3
Unexpected Hero
Investigative reporter Gemma Wade has been dispatched to her own personal purgatory—small town Marietta, Montana—to write a fluffy, romantic piece about the unprecedented spike in marriages there. Being punished for an embarrassing career misstep is bad enough, but it’s probably karma that she also stumbles upon Mr. Right in the absolute wrong place.
Noah Mathis is in town for a wedding with his ex-Navy SEAL brothers, but can’t get Gemma out of his mind after meeting her at a party. He wants her to be his plus one for the week, even knowing this short reprieve from his real life will end all too soon.
It isn’t long before Gemma realizes that Noah isn’t who everyone believes him to be. Scooping the story of his true identity may just save her flailing career. But is sacrificing her happily ever after worth it?
Noah Mathis is in town for a wedding with his ex-Navy SEAL brothers, but can’t get Gemma out of his mind after meeting her at a party. He wants her to be his plus one for the week, even knowing this short reprieve from his real life will end all too soon.
It isn’t long before Gemma realizes that Noah isn’t who everyone believes him to be. Scooping the story of his true identity may just save her flailing career. But is sacrificing her happily ever after worth it?
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2018
71 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Ankrum
40 books156 followersBarbara Ankrum grew up in Upstate New York, training to be a ballerina, but secretly dreaming of being an actress. Her first fangirl crush on Haley Mills led her to practice her British accent on unsuspecting store clerks, and she dreamed of co-starring in the remake of THE MOONSPINNERS. Because she was also a compulsive reader, she discovered that the film was based on a book by the fabulous Mary Stewart, which led to Barbara's lifelong obsession with romantic fiction.
Since Haley Mills was, sadly, not in the market for a co-star, Barbara pursued a degree in English Literature from the University of Tennessee. And when that degree, predictably, led to unemployment, she pulled up her socks and moved to Hollywood where she built a career as a successful commercial actress while raising two amazing (now grown) children with her sweet husband.
Writing romance came naturally from all that reading and the down time between auditions. Once she sold her first book, she said farewell to Hollywood-Land and never looked back. In between writing novels, she got her MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard and optioned a few screenplays. But her first love is, and always will be, romance.
Barbara's emotional, character driven, adventurous historicals (Wild Western Hearts series), her sexy, romantic suspense for Harlequin and her funny, heartwarming contemporaries for Tule Publishing, offer a little something for everyone. Twice nominated for Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA Award, and her contemporary romance, Holiday Hearts, was made into a Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Christmas movie! Today, she lives in Texas with her husband and a scruffy, adorable rescue dog.
Please visit her on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Barbara.ankr...
Website: www.barbaraankrum.com
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/BarbaraAnkrum
Since Haley Mills was, sadly, not in the market for a co-star, Barbara pursued a degree in English Literature from the University of Tennessee. And when that degree, predictably, led to unemployment, she pulled up her socks and moved to Hollywood where she built a career as a successful commercial actress while raising two amazing (now grown) children with her sweet husband.
Writing romance came naturally from all that reading and the down time between auditions. Once she sold her first book, she said farewell to Hollywood-Land and never looked back. In between writing novels, she got her MFA in Creative Writing from Goddard and optioned a few screenplays. But her first love is, and always will be, romance.
Barbara's emotional, character driven, adventurous historicals (Wild Western Hearts series), her sexy, romantic suspense for Harlequin and her funny, heartwarming contemporaries for Tule Publishing, offer a little something for everyone. Twice nominated for Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA Award, and her contemporary romance, Holiday Hearts, was made into a Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Christmas movie! Today, she lives in Texas with her husband and a scruffy, adorable rescue dog.
Please visit her on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Barbara.ankr...
Website: www.barbaraankrum.com
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/BarbaraAnkrum
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 13, 2018
Road To You by Barbara Ankrum is the second book in the contemporary romance Band of Brothers series. As with most books of this genre this one features a new couple coming together so it reads rather well as a standalone if choosing to do so.
This story is set in my favorite small town of Marietta, Mt where Gemma Wade and Noah Mathis have crossed paths. Gemma is a reporter that after a bit of a mess up in her last assignment her boss has sent her to Marietta to do a fluff piece on weddings. Thankful to not be fired though Gemma sets off to Montana to try to win back her job.
Noah has come to the charming small town to attend the wedding of some close friends with his other ex Navy Seal team members. When Noah runs into Gemma outside a wedding get together he invites her into the event and Gemma thinks what better way to do a wedding story but from the inside. However, with Gemma not admitting to being a reporter and Noah with his own secrets to hide it will be a rocky start for this couple.
The idea of hiding identities isn't at the top of my list of favorite romance tropes but I was willing to overlook this to take yet another trip to the lovely town of Marietta. Thankfully Noah and Gemma were both likable characters which made it easy to root for each when I got to know them. As always too there were the normal landmarks and charm of the town to fall in love with as the characters grew their relationship making this a nice little quick read I'd rate at 3.5 stars.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
This story is set in my favorite small town of Marietta, Mt where Gemma Wade and Noah Mathis have crossed paths. Gemma is a reporter that after a bit of a mess up in her last assignment her boss has sent her to Marietta to do a fluff piece on weddings. Thankful to not be fired though Gemma sets off to Montana to try to win back her job.
Noah has come to the charming small town to attend the wedding of some close friends with his other ex Navy Seal team members. When Noah runs into Gemma outside a wedding get together he invites her into the event and Gemma thinks what better way to do a wedding story but from the inside. However, with Gemma not admitting to being a reporter and Noah with his own secrets to hide it will be a rocky start for this couple.
The idea of hiding identities isn't at the top of my list of favorite romance tropes but I was willing to overlook this to take yet another trip to the lovely town of Marietta. Thankfully Noah and Gemma were both likable characters which made it easy to root for each when I got to know them. As always too there were the normal landmarks and charm of the town to fall in love with as the characters grew their relationship making this a nice little quick read I'd rate at 3.5 stars.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 19, 2018
Hero, Noah Mathis, is ex-navy SEAL attending the wedding of one of his fellow SEAL brothers at a quaint little Montana town called Marietta. Journalist Gemma Wade has been sent to Marietta to write a piece about the township's disproportionate number of weddings compared to residents. Gemma screwed up her last investigative report and recognises this assignment as her both a punishment and her last chance to retain her job. She didn't count on falling victim to the potent, amorous enchantment of Marietta. In one spectacular chin grazing, blood-letting, dignity-to-the-wind fall, she caught the attention of Noah and they did some more falling over the next few days - falling in insta-love that is, as they get acquainted over pre- and peri-wedding activities. Problem is that Gemma discovers that Noah hides a secret identity, one even his band of brothers is unaware of. His alter ego, Eamon Connelly, is the shipping magnate the whole country is looking for after he mysteriously disappeared prior to an important business decision. Bigger problem is what is she going to do about this discovery and the fact that media-shy Noah is unaware of her real business in Marietta?
The book is a quick read, light on detail, light on passion, but altogether not a bad way to pass time.
This is an ARC provided by NetGalley.
The book is a quick read, light on detail, light on passion, but altogether not a bad way to pass time.
This is an ARC provided by NetGalley.
May 27, 2018
It was cute and short read. A bit cheesy sometimes, but very low angst.
The H was rich and he wasn't a ManWhore. Surprise, right?
The h was ok.
No cheating, no OP scenes.
The H was rich and he wasn't a ManWhore. Surprise, right?
The h was ok.
No cheating, no OP scenes.
May 24, 2018
I absolutely loved this book. This is my first read from the author and won't be the last. The book is set in the town of Marietta Montana, which is a draw for me having read other books based in this beautiful small town where love is somehow always in the air. This book had a different twist making all the more enjoyable for me.
Gemma is a reporter based at a paper in Seattle, who has more than her share of current problems, mainly her job and thanks to a bad source on an article she wrote and was printed was forced to make a humiliating public apology and retraction. Gemma honestly feels her job is her life. Her identity is basically tied to her being a reporter. No life outside of that. Her ex fiancé now remarried and his current wife have their heads up her bosses backside and the ex is a jerk extraordinaire. Having been summoned by her boss, she thinks she's goin to be canned, but no he's sending her to Marietta to write what's called a "fluff" piece. Seems the town has more than it's share of weddings and rumors abound. Gemma feels punished, she waffles between being grateful to still have a job and just being angry. Off to Montana she goes to cover a wedding write a piece about the town. Of course she's not forthcoming about being a journalist.
Her first night there she meets Noah, who is in town for the wedding of one of his military "brothers"
He's avoided other events with them, but this one he felt like he just couldn't avoid nor did he want to miss and was also running from the other part of his real life that was closing in on him. Noah has his own story which you read about in the books and is so well written. At 18 he changed his name, left his family and joined the military and served with these men. They don't know Noah's life now and it eats at Noah.
When Noah and Gemma meet she doesn't tell him she's a journalist either. She does tell him she's a writer. The two of them are perfect together and I loved them and the whole cast of characters in this book and honestly can't wait for whatever comes next in this series. Back to the story. Noah and Gemma spend a lot of time together and they both love Marietta. When these two fall, they fell hard.
Neither knowing the others secret, Gemma really did intend to tell Noah but never found the right time. Always busy with something going on with the wedding. She does however rely on her best friend back home Frankie as a sounding board. Still at the office one night the ex overhears the conversation and finds out who Noah really is and that sends this story spinning off into a whole different orbit. When he does show up in Marietta, Noah gets his licks in which made me oh so happy and bounces him out of the hotel on his can.
Noah is angry, he never lets Gemma explain. He takes off for a quiet place to think, she's sitting in the local pub with one of the girls talking where the real story comes out and the bottom line is these two love each other. But has too much happened to trust each other? Can Noah talk to his fellow brothers and face his past? Can Gemma trust herself enough to stay strong or will she go home feeling defeated at the hands of the man who has ruined her life yet again? All these questions that keep you turning the pages and there are no give aways in this book. The author keeps you wondering right down to the wire. Solid writing and great characters and the backdrop of Marietta is perfect.
This is a great book for anyone to read. I look forward to the next one and have already backtracked to book one! Fantastic read!
advanced copy from NetGalley and Tule publishing for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Gemma is a reporter based at a paper in Seattle, who has more than her share of current problems, mainly her job and thanks to a bad source on an article she wrote and was printed was forced to make a humiliating public apology and retraction. Gemma honestly feels her job is her life. Her identity is basically tied to her being a reporter. No life outside of that. Her ex fiancé now remarried and his current wife have their heads up her bosses backside and the ex is a jerk extraordinaire. Having been summoned by her boss, she thinks she's goin to be canned, but no he's sending her to Marietta to write what's called a "fluff" piece. Seems the town has more than it's share of weddings and rumors abound. Gemma feels punished, she waffles between being grateful to still have a job and just being angry. Off to Montana she goes to cover a wedding write a piece about the town. Of course she's not forthcoming about being a journalist.
Her first night there she meets Noah, who is in town for the wedding of one of his military "brothers"
He's avoided other events with them, but this one he felt like he just couldn't avoid nor did he want to miss and was also running from the other part of his real life that was closing in on him. Noah has his own story which you read about in the books and is so well written. At 18 he changed his name, left his family and joined the military and served with these men. They don't know Noah's life now and it eats at Noah.
When Noah and Gemma meet she doesn't tell him she's a journalist either. She does tell him she's a writer. The two of them are perfect together and I loved them and the whole cast of characters in this book and honestly can't wait for whatever comes next in this series. Back to the story. Noah and Gemma spend a lot of time together and they both love Marietta. When these two fall, they fell hard.
Neither knowing the others secret, Gemma really did intend to tell Noah but never found the right time. Always busy with something going on with the wedding. She does however rely on her best friend back home Frankie as a sounding board. Still at the office one night the ex overhears the conversation and finds out who Noah really is and that sends this story spinning off into a whole different orbit. When he does show up in Marietta, Noah gets his licks in which made me oh so happy and bounces him out of the hotel on his can.
Noah is angry, he never lets Gemma explain. He takes off for a quiet place to think, she's sitting in the local pub with one of the girls talking where the real story comes out and the bottom line is these two love each other. But has too much happened to trust each other? Can Noah talk to his fellow brothers and face his past? Can Gemma trust herself enough to stay strong or will she go home feeling defeated at the hands of the man who has ruined her life yet again? All these questions that keep you turning the pages and there are no give aways in this book. The author keeps you wondering right down to the wire. Solid writing and great characters and the backdrop of Marietta is perfect.
This is a great book for anyone to read. I look forward to the next one and have already backtracked to book one! Fantastic read!
advanced copy from NetGalley and Tule publishing for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 21, 2018
Oh WOW a Marietta, Montana book that has a different take and a different grouping of characters. Many of these we had met before in the first book of the Band of Brothers but it's okay if you missed that book (but i highly recommend reading it later), Author Barbara Ankrum catches you up right nicely. In this book we get to know more about the most secretive of the brother Noah. We get to see his other life and what goes on when he not around everyone else. Why he is not around the group more and MeRcY me is a humdinger of a book. On the other side we have Gemma, a writer for a newspaper in Seattle. Well lets say she hopes she is after this weekend. This is her last chance since her big article turned out once of her sources was lying to her. So her breaking story turned out either not right or it was right and he lied later. Either way it caused issues so she is shipped off to write about weddings in Marietta. I for one would take that assignment in a heartbeat. BUT she did not know about this amazing little town before she got there AND of course there was more than weddings hidden inside Road to You as well. This is definitely one of those books that had me captured from the beginning until the very end. I was not sure that Noah would ever pull his head out of his read but.... well of course I will let you read and decide for yourself how he does. I cant wait to see which "brother" is the next in this series we will get to unravel his secrets and see if he falls in love or not.
May 25, 2018
This is a cute book about things backfiring from the get go. Gemma Wade is in Marietta, sent there by her newspaper after a story she wrote goes way south. Now, she is stuck in the personal interest column, writing about the epidemic of weddings and lasting love that has taken over the small Montana town.
Noah Mathis is in town for the wedding of a close armed forces buddy. He is also taking a break from his high profile family job and definitely not ever wanting any press about his life. Ba-bam! Enter Gemma and their secrets could ruin it all for them. She sees a story that should be told; he sees a life of covering up who he really is that should be revealed. But, not by her and not in the press. The backfiring begins from the moment they meet and hide who they are. The truth is , you cannot hide forever and somehow it will come back to bite you.
Noah Mathis is in town for the wedding of a close armed forces buddy. He is also taking a break from his high profile family job and definitely not ever wanting any press about his life. Ba-bam! Enter Gemma and their secrets could ruin it all for them. She sees a story that should be told; he sees a life of covering up who he really is that should be revealed. But, not by her and not in the press. The backfiring begins from the moment they meet and hide who they are. The truth is , you cannot hide forever and somehow it will come back to bite you.
June 12, 2018
Loved this book of two people, who are not telling each other the whole truth. Gemma and Noah, both are hiding their true identity from each other and friends. Gemma has arrived in Marietta to cover all of the weddings that have taken place and Noah is there for a wedding of one his "brothers". There is an instant connection between the two, but will it last longer the weekend with their secrets.
This is a book that I could not put down. Loved these characters, both hurting inside but perfect for each other. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
This is a book that I could not put down. Loved these characters, both hurting inside but perfect for each other. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
June 12, 2018
This book takes place in Marietta Montana and oh how I love to read a story that takes place there, heck I almost want to move there.
This book has a great plot line except it keep me on edge to much of the book, worried Gemma would make a mistake for the sake of her writing career, then just when I was breathing easier I had to worry what her ex was up to.
Can’t wait for the next book in the series as the true friendship of the band of brothers gets right to your heart.
This book has a great plot line except it keep me on edge to much of the book, worried Gemma would make a mistake for the sake of her writing career, then just when I was breathing easier I had to worry what her ex was up to.
Can’t wait for the next book in the series as the true friendship of the band of brothers gets right to your heart.
June 7, 2018
I voluntarily read a advanced reader's copy of this book for a honest opinion.
Band of Brothers, book two Road to You by Barbara Ankrum. A enjoyable sweet story. Likable characters, great character development and a storyline that pulled me in. I have really enjoyed this series so far and look forward to seeing what the next books bring to you.
Band of Brothers, book two Road to You by Barbara Ankrum. A enjoyable sweet story. Likable characters, great character development and a storyline that pulled me in. I have really enjoyed this series so far and look forward to seeing what the next books bring to you.
May 27, 2018
It was cute and short read. A bit cheesy sometimes, but very low angst.
The H was rich and he wasn't a ManWhore. Surprise, right?
The h was ok.
No cheating, no OP scenes.
The H was rich and he wasn't a ManWhore. Surprise, right?
The h was ok.
No cheating, no OP scenes.
May 18, 2018
A pleasant, if predictable, story about two meet and are drawn to each other even though they are both hiding major details about themselves. I have read one other book by this author and liked it so I was eager to give another book by her a try.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
June 7, 2018
Road to You by Barbara Ankrum
Investigative reporter Gemma Wade has been dispatched to her own personal purgatory—small town Marietta, Montana—to write a fluffy, romantic piece about the unprecedented spike in marriages there. Being punished for an embarrassing career misstep is bad enough, but it’s probably karma that she also stumbles upon Mr. Right in the absolute wrong place.
Noah Mathis is in town for a wedding with his ex-Navy SEAL brothers, but can’t get Gemma out of his mind after meeting her at a party. He wants her to be his plus one for the week, even knowing this short reprieve from his real life will end all too soon.
It isn’t long before Gemma realizes that Noah isn’t who everyone believes him to be. Scooping the story of his true identity may just save her flailing career. But is sacrificing her happily ever after worth it?
this is Gemma Wade and Noah’s story.
“No! No. I can do it. I’ll write it.” The angle was there in black and white. Marietta: The new romantic/happily ever after hub of the West. She leaned forward, trying not to gag on the assignment. “Just to be clear…a fluff piece, then?”
That’s the whole point of good personal interest pieces. They’re not written as fluff. But they fill a news hole we need filled. You understand?”
Noah Mathis is in town for a wedding with his ex-Navy SEAL brothers.
He wants her to be his plus one for the week, even knowing this short reprieve from his real life will end all too soon.
It isn’t long before Gemma realizes that Noah isn’t who everyone believes him to be. Scooping the story of his true identity may just save her flailing career.
Noah officially change his name to Noah Mathis.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Road to You by Barbara Ankrum is a 4 star book.
Barbara's Books with Tule:
A Cowboy to Remember
Big Marietta Fair
The Canadays of Montana
Choose Me, Cowboy
The 77th Copper Mountain Rodeo
The Canadays of Montana
The Christmas Wish
The Canadays of Montana
A Cowboy to Keep
The Canadays of Montana
A Little Christmas Magic
Band of Brothers
Road to You
Band of Brothers
Investigative reporter Gemma Wade has been dispatched to her own personal purgatory—small town Marietta, Montana—to write a fluffy, romantic piece about the unprecedented spike in marriages there. Being punished for an embarrassing career misstep is bad enough, but it’s probably karma that she also stumbles upon Mr. Right in the absolute wrong place.
Noah Mathis is in town for a wedding with his ex-Navy SEAL brothers, but can’t get Gemma out of his mind after meeting her at a party. He wants her to be his plus one for the week, even knowing this short reprieve from his real life will end all too soon.
It isn’t long before Gemma realizes that Noah isn’t who everyone believes him to be. Scooping the story of his true identity may just save her flailing career. But is sacrificing her happily ever after worth it?
this is Gemma Wade and Noah’s story.
“No! No. I can do it. I’ll write it.” The angle was there in black and white. Marietta: The new romantic/happily ever after hub of the West. She leaned forward, trying not to gag on the assignment. “Just to be clear…a fluff piece, then?”
That’s the whole point of good personal interest pieces. They’re not written as fluff. But they fill a news hole we need filled. You understand?”
Noah Mathis is in town for a wedding with his ex-Navy SEAL brothers.
He wants her to be his plus one for the week, even knowing this short reprieve from his real life will end all too soon.
It isn’t long before Gemma realizes that Noah isn’t who everyone believes him to be. Scooping the story of his true identity may just save her flailing career.
Noah officially change his name to Noah Mathis.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Road to You by Barbara Ankrum is a 4 star book.
Barbara's Books with Tule:
A Cowboy to Remember
Big Marietta Fair
The Canadays of Montana
Choose Me, Cowboy
The 77th Copper Mountain Rodeo
The Canadays of Montana
The Christmas Wish
The Canadays of Montana
A Cowboy to Keep
The Canadays of Montana
A Little Christmas Magic
Band of Brothers
Road to You
Band of Brothers
June 8, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I love returning to Marietta, Montana – my favorite fictional small town of all time. Although this time, Road to You is going to give us a slightly different slant, and a different set of secondary characters. But that’s fine. All the known and loved landmarks of Marietta are still firmly in place.
Road to You is full of secrets, information not revealed when the opportunity was there, a slimy ex that makes you question Gemma’s taste in men prior to Noah and a conclusion that will be in question right up until the very end. In short, a perfectly wonderful romance in Marietta once again. Love is truly in the mountain air around here – that’s the answer to so many rumors about too many weddings. *grin*
Because of the “hidden identities” in this story I feel the need to be rather vague and just focus on my reaction to the characters and the story. I absolutely loved Noah and Gemma. Both are hiding something, both have been hurt before, both have trust issues… and both are in need of one person to truly love them exactly as they are, thorns and all. I hurt for this couple as secrets are uncovered, I got angry with those who stuck their noses in where they should have left well enough alone, and I fell in love with two unlikely people who fit together so well even with their secrets between them. Road to You is full of twists, unseen emotional mines and an extremely happy ending… eventually. Plus, Marietta always shines as its own character to love all on its own. If you are addicted, as I am, to romances in Marietta, if you love a really good love story where the secrets outweigh the known facts, if you simply want to fall in love with an amazing couple then you’ll want to pick up this story, and the entire series, right now. I’d recommend this story to any Contemporary Romance reader, you’ll find a story to get swept up in and will enjoy the journey.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I love returning to Marietta, Montana – my favorite fictional small town of all time. Although this time, Road to You is going to give us a slightly different slant, and a different set of secondary characters. But that’s fine. All the known and loved landmarks of Marietta are still firmly in place.
Road to You is full of secrets, information not revealed when the opportunity was there, a slimy ex that makes you question Gemma’s taste in men prior to Noah and a conclusion that will be in question right up until the very end. In short, a perfectly wonderful romance in Marietta once again. Love is truly in the mountain air around here – that’s the answer to so many rumors about too many weddings. *grin*
Because of the “hidden identities” in this story I feel the need to be rather vague and just focus on my reaction to the characters and the story. I absolutely loved Noah and Gemma. Both are hiding something, both have been hurt before, both have trust issues… and both are in need of one person to truly love them exactly as they are, thorns and all. I hurt for this couple as secrets are uncovered, I got angry with those who stuck their noses in where they should have left well enough alone, and I fell in love with two unlikely people who fit together so well even with their secrets between them. Road to You is full of twists, unseen emotional mines and an extremely happy ending… eventually. Plus, Marietta always shines as its own character to love all on its own. If you are addicted, as I am, to romances in Marietta, if you love a really good love story where the secrets outweigh the known facts, if you simply want to fall in love with an amazing couple then you’ll want to pick up this story, and the entire series, right now. I’d recommend this story to any Contemporary Romance reader, you’ll find a story to get swept up in and will enjoy the journey.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
June 16, 2018
I loved, loved, loved Road to You by Barbara Ankrum, book two in her Band of Brothers series. Noah Mathis, a mysterious man with a lot of secrets, knew he had to be in Marietta, Montana for the wedding of one his ex-Navy SEAL brothers, no matter the consequences his absence might cause. Even his brothers don’t know about his secrets. Gemma Wade, a journalist for a Seattle newspaper is in Marietta to write a fluffy, romantic piece about the unusual increases in marriages there. Being punished for an embarrassing career misstep is bad enough, but it’s probably karma that Gemma also stumbles, literally, upon Mr. Right in the absolute wrong place. Noah wants Gemma to be his plus one for the week, even knowing this short break from his real life will end all too soon. Gemma, being a nosy, investigative reporter realizes that Noah isn’t who everyone believes him to be. This accidental encounter could expose Noah’s secrets which could affect both of them forever. Gemma needs to figure out which is more important, saving her flailing career or sacrificing her happily ever after? Maybe the magic of Marietta will solve both of their problems. Or maybe a little Audrey Hepburn and a black cat will provide the answers.
This wonderful story was fun to read and easy to visualize the story as it occurred. I totally loved these characters and didn’t want to put this book down. I especially loved the comparison and parallels to the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Ms. Ankrum did a fantastic job creating her characters, making them realistic, keeping the story interesting, making me forget the world around me and not letting me go until I turned the last page, wanting more. I highly recommend this book to other readers and look forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This wonderful story was fun to read and easy to visualize the story as it occurred. I totally loved these characters and didn’t want to put this book down. I especially loved the comparison and parallels to the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Ms. Ankrum did a fantastic job creating her characters, making them realistic, keeping the story interesting, making me forget the world around me and not letting me go until I turned the last page, wanting more. I highly recommend this book to other readers and look forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 14, 2018
This is the story of Noah and Gemma. Gemma is a journalist, whose career is going down fast. Not only was she left waiting in the aisle by her fiancé who cheated on her, but when the sources of her last article withdrew she found herself exposed and her job threaten. Her boss gave her a second chance asking her to write a piece for Marietta, a place where romance was exploding and there was a boom in marriages.
Noah is the son of the owner of a colloseum shipping company, publically known as Eamon Noah Connelly. When he was 16-17th years old he felt responsible for his sister abduction. And when a scandal broke out in the media with him and his family being the epicenter, he felt overwhelmed and decided to officially change his name to Noah Mathis. And soon afterwards he joined the military. He will leave a business deal in the middle to visit Marietta Montana to join to one of his "brothers" wedding.
Gemma on her first day in Marietta she will fall on a slippy path and she will bleed her chin and knee in front of Noah, who will jump in to help her. Soon he will be treating her as his plus one for the wedding and their easy going manner and chemistry will not pass unnoticed. But will they be able to ocercome the lies that lay between them? Will they survive? And how will his "brothers" react when they will learn the truth?
A wonderful and pleasant romance with a unique plot which I really enjoyed reading on a Sunday afternoon. I could not stop myself from reading greadily page after page and though used by other hot erotic books I did not miss at all the detailed abnd lengthy sex scenes.
Noah is the son of the owner of a colloseum shipping company, publically known as Eamon Noah Connelly. When he was 16-17th years old he felt responsible for his sister abduction. And when a scandal broke out in the media with him and his family being the epicenter, he felt overwhelmed and decided to officially change his name to Noah Mathis. And soon afterwards he joined the military. He will leave a business deal in the middle to visit Marietta Montana to join to one of his "brothers" wedding.
Gemma on her first day in Marietta she will fall on a slippy path and she will bleed her chin and knee in front of Noah, who will jump in to help her. Soon he will be treating her as his plus one for the wedding and their easy going manner and chemistry will not pass unnoticed. But will they be able to ocercome the lies that lay between them? Will they survive? And how will his "brothers" react when they will learn the truth?
A wonderful and pleasant romance with a unique plot which I really enjoyed reading on a Sunday afternoon. I could not stop myself from reading greadily page after page and though used by other hot erotic books I did not miss at all the detailed abnd lengthy sex scenes.
May 22, 2018
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
2.5 stars
This was a light, quick read, which takes place in the small town setting of Marietta, Montana.
I guess we could say about both main characters that they’re not romantic people, but pragmatists, and in the end they assume responsibility for their own actions and forgive themselves and each other.
Yet, I had a hard time with the lying and identity hiding in this story. To a certain extent, I thought there was no need for it. Yes, I rooted for the hero, the wounded veteran with a tragic past, to whom the Army was the only place he felt he fit in, but hiding your true identity from your comrades (brothers, as Noah says) for so long? It’s not nice and I also found it a bit unbelievable.
Speaking of plausibility, I found it even more difficult buying into Gemma’s need to lie about her job when her initial intention was only to write a positive piece about Marietta’s propensity for good matches and happy marriages. And I will not comment about the professional ethics of it, or lack thereof.
The story was a bit predictable and tended to some clichés sometimes (the panic attack because of the fireworks), but it’s well written and Barbara Ankrum’s talent makes the characters interesting even with all their flaws, lies and mistakes. I can’t wait for the next story in this “Band of Brothers” series.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Tule Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
2.5 stars
This was a light, quick read, which takes place in the small town setting of Marietta, Montana.
I guess we could say about both main characters that they’re not romantic people, but pragmatists, and in the end they assume responsibility for their own actions and forgive themselves and each other.
Yet, I had a hard time with the lying and identity hiding in this story. To a certain extent, I thought there was no need for it. Yes, I rooted for the hero, the wounded veteran with a tragic past, to whom the Army was the only place he felt he fit in, but hiding your true identity from your comrades (brothers, as Noah says) for so long? It’s not nice and I also found it a bit unbelievable.
Speaking of plausibility, I found it even more difficult buying into Gemma’s need to lie about her job when her initial intention was only to write a positive piece about Marietta’s propensity for good matches and happy marriages. And I will not comment about the professional ethics of it, or lack thereof.
The story was a bit predictable and tended to some clichés sometimes (the panic attack because of the fireworks), but it’s well written and Barbara Ankrum’s talent makes the characters interesting even with all their flaws, lies and mistakes. I can’t wait for the next story in this “Band of Brothers” series.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Tule Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2018
Road to You by Barbara Ankrum is a visit back to Marietta, Montana one of my favorites book places. However, for Gemma Wade, an investigative reporter, is like a trip to reporter time-out. Noah Mathis, too, is in town for just a short time to attend a wedding.
Second book in the Band of Brothers series, this reads well as a stand-alone. Yes, Noah is in town for the wedding but it is not necessary to have read the first book to enjoy this one. It is a pleasant read. I am not always happy with Gemma who does not tell Noah why she is so willing to attend all things weddings with him for the week. It seems underhanded since she had just met him. Then she wants to know more about Noah’s secrets to try to jump start her career again. So it is easy to see why she is not my favorite of female leads. Still I enjoyed my visit to Marietta with Gemma and Noah showing growth as individuals as well as finding romance.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Second book in the Band of Brothers series, this reads well as a stand-alone. Yes, Noah is in town for the wedding but it is not necessary to have read the first book to enjoy this one. It is a pleasant read. I am not always happy with Gemma who does not tell Noah why she is so willing to attend all things weddings with him for the week. It seems underhanded since she had just met him. Then she wants to know more about Noah’s secrets to try to jump start her career again. So it is easy to see why she is not my favorite of female leads. Still I enjoyed my visit to Marietta with Gemma and Noah showing growth as individuals as well as finding romance.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 9, 2018
I sometimes wonder if I go overboard with five star reviews, but really if I absolutely loved a book then why wouldn’t I give it five stars? That’s certainly the case with Road To You, the second story in Barbara Ankrum’s Band of Brothers series. I have loved this story every bit as much as I loved the first book, A Little Christmas Magic. These stories work beautifully together, but also stand alone nicely.
Guilt plays a huge role in this emotional and at times heart-rending love story of two people who, for reasons of their own, have lied to each other and their friends about who they are. Both Noah and Gemma are honest, decent, caring people, so it’s no surprise that as their relationship develops so does their guilt.
With undertones of Breakfast at Tiffany’s scattered throughout, along with lines from other movie greats, I couldn’t help but feel a link to this story. I would have read it in one sitting but fell asleep. This morning I picked up where I left off and read happily and hopefully to the end. It is an utterly gorgeous story!
Guilt plays a huge role in this emotional and at times heart-rending love story of two people who, for reasons of their own, have lied to each other and their friends about who they are. Both Noah and Gemma are honest, decent, caring people, so it’s no surprise that as their relationship develops so does their guilt.
With undertones of Breakfast at Tiffany’s scattered throughout, along with lines from other movie greats, I couldn’t help but feel a link to this story. I would have read it in one sitting but fell asleep. This morning I picked up where I left off and read happily and hopefully to the end. It is an utterly gorgeous story!
June 9, 2018
An enjoyable and well-written romance, this book had plenty of humour, but it also dealt with the pain of betrayal, taking the fall for someone else and dealing with past mistakes. Being sent off to write a “fluff piece” on the unprecedented marriages taking place in small town Marietta, Gemma is licking her wounds after discovering that her nemesis is once more twisting the proverbial knife in her back. Only Gemma literally falls at Noah's feet and the love bug bites once again. Whilst Gemma is keeping her real identity a secret, she realises that Noah is doing the same. With the result, when the truth blows up in their faces, more than one person is hurt by the secrets being kept. However, both Gemma and Noah recognise who their true friends are and that despite past mistakes, they accept you for who you are, including the baggage being carried around. Although this book is part of a series it is nevertheless and stand-alone and does come to a very satisfactory ending. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
May 14, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I loved that there was a hint of suspense in this romance. This book is the story of Gemma, a journalist who has been treated badly by her ex-fiancé, Ash, both in her relationship and at the paper they work for. Ash managed to ruin her last big story so her boss sends her to Marietta Montana to write a fluff piece on the weddings there and romance. Upon her arrival Gemma meets Noah who is in town for friends’ wedding. They hit it off and Noah invites her to join in the pre wedding. Events and the wedding. Noah’s friends all accept Gemma. In her research Gemma discovers that Noah is really a rich mogul named Eamon. None of his friends know this. She works on an article on him to help her declining career. Ash gets wind of this and shows up in MT. What ensues next is very exciting and romantic. What a wonderful story. This is the second book I’ve read by Ms. Ankrum and I hope to read more. Easily a 5 star winner!
June 23, 2018
Gemma Wade is a reporter from Seattle that was sent to Montana to do a story on why there is so many weddings there. Noah Mathis is taking a quick escape from his life to go to an Ex-Navy SEAL buddy's wedding. Of course they meet right of the bat when they both get into Marietta. They both have secrets. The story gets more interesting from there but you have to read it yourself because if I write too much more than I will give stuff away.
It was a cute short easy read.
I liked the Characters despite their lying to each other but considering that was the only downfall of their characters it is pretty good. It is in a series I had enough info to get through it. I am curious about the first book now.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.
It was a cute short easy read.
I liked the Characters despite their lying to each other but considering that was the only downfall of their characters it is pretty good. It is in a series I had enough info to get through it. I am curious about the first book now.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.
June 29, 2018
Road to You (Book 2 of the Band of Brothers Series) by Barbara Ankrum. This is Gemma Wade and Noah Mathis’ story.
This story takes place in Marietta. I loved being back in Marietta! Noah is in Marietta for a good friend’s wedding. Gemma is there to write a story that will save her job. Their path’s cross and they are immediately attracted to each other. But there is a problem. Gemma and Noah both have secrets. What happens when their secrets come out?
I really enjoyed Gemma and Noah’s story. This was a really emotional read. At times you just want to cry for Noah and Gemma. I loved how Noah’s military buddies, friends, and families welcomed Gemma in their celebration and supported Noah when his secrets came out. A fantastic read!
FYI, contains mature content. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This story takes place in Marietta. I loved being back in Marietta! Noah is in Marietta for a good friend’s wedding. Gemma is there to write a story that will save her job. Their path’s cross and they are immediately attracted to each other. But there is a problem. Gemma and Noah both have secrets. What happens when their secrets come out?
I really enjoyed Gemma and Noah’s story. This was a really emotional read. At times you just want to cry for Noah and Gemma. I loved how Noah’s military buddies, friends, and families welcomed Gemma in their celebration and supported Noah when his secrets came out. A fantastic read!
FYI, contains mature content. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 8, 2018
This was a very enjoyable. It had a unique and interesting storyline, a nice easy pace to the story, excellent writing and intriguing characters. All this combined to make a great read. While this is the second in a series it is easily read standalone.
In this story we have Gemma Wade who after getting into a bit of hot water with her boss has found herself in Marietta seeking a story on why there seems to be so much love in the air. While there she meets Noah Mathis at a wedding. They hit it off right from the start. Thing is though Noah's not really who he claims to be. Exposing the truth could give her the story she needs to revive her career but what would it do to Noah? Will she keep his secret or expose him to the world.
I highly recommend this one.
In this story we have Gemma Wade who after getting into a bit of hot water with her boss has found herself in Marietta seeking a story on why there seems to be so much love in the air. While there she meets Noah Mathis at a wedding. They hit it off right from the start. Thing is though Noah's not really who he claims to be. Exposing the truth could give her the story she needs to revive her career but what would it do to Noah? Will she keep his secret or expose him to the world.
I highly recommend this one.
May 30, 2018
Gemma, big-time news journalist meets Noah, ex-Navy Seal in a contempory (western) romance.
This book is the story of two people who meet and hide their true selves. This story takes place on neutral ground, in a small town in Montana. Noah is going to a friend's wedding and Gemma is on assignment, writing about love! Both end up wishing that they had been honest from the beginning.
Cute and flirty characters with a great setting in Montana.
Road to You by Barbara Ankrum will be available June 7, 2018 from Tule Publishing. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
This book is the story of two people who meet and hide their true selves. This story takes place on neutral ground, in a small town in Montana. Noah is going to a friend's wedding and Gemma is on assignment, writing about love! Both end up wishing that they had been honest from the beginning.
Cute and flirty characters with a great setting in Montana.
Road to You by Barbara Ankrum will be available June 7, 2018 from Tule Publishing. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
July 5, 2018
This story is an interesting and enjoyable read.
Gemma is a reporter who was sent to Marietta to report a fluffy story on wedding after an error on her part on her previous work . She saw it as a punishment /demotion but luckily for her she met her happily ever after there, even though with some dramas.
Noah Matthis is a big time executive and a former navy seal with a past he's trying to forget. He also went to Marietta for one of his friend's wedding and under the guise of a different name but unfortunately his deception of years past caught up with him. "I received this book for free from eBook discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review."
Gemma is a reporter who was sent to Marietta to report a fluffy story on wedding after an error on her part on her previous work . She saw it as a punishment /demotion but luckily for her she met her happily ever after there, even though with some dramas.
Noah Matthis is a big time executive and a former navy seal with a past he's trying to forget. He also went to Marietta for one of his friend's wedding and under the guise of a different name but unfortunately his deception of years past caught up with him. "I received this book for free from eBook discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review."
June 6, 2018
I am giving an honest review of this ARC that I received from NetGalley.
I truly enjoy reading books that are based out of Marietta, Montana. I have already read the previous book in this series and enjoyed that one as well. It was nice reading about characters that I had met in previous books.
I enjoyed reading about Gemma and Noah and found myself eager to get to the main conflict in the story to see how it was going to be handled by the characters. Barbara Ankrum did not disappoint her readers with this one!
I truly enjoy reading books that are based out of Marietta, Montana. I have already read the previous book in this series and enjoyed that one as well. It was nice reading about characters that I had met in previous books.
I enjoyed reading about Gemma and Noah and found myself eager to get to the main conflict in the story to see how it was going to be handled by the characters. Barbara Ankrum did not disappoint her readers with this one!
June 9, 2018
Very engaging writing, likable characters and a story that was hard to put down. Ms Ankrum introduced me to believable characters that I was concerned about; the ones I liked and those I didn't. The way she wrote human
feelings- hurt, mistrust, fear, and longing felt real. The plot, climax, and the resolutions were consistent with the story. I have found an author to follow. Exceptional read.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.”
feelings- hurt, mistrust, fear, and longing felt real. The plot, climax, and the resolutions were consistent with the story. I have found an author to follow. Exceptional read.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.”
June 26, 2018
Road To You by Barbara Ankrum was an enjoyable read filled with charming characters.
Gemma Wade is an investigative reporter who has been having a tough time at work. She had to retract a statement she wrote and is now being punished by being sent to Marietta, Montana. She has been ordered to cover the spike in marriages there, but Gemma doesn’t want a fluff piece, she wants something she can sink her teeth in. Turns out Marietta has exactly what she’s looking for and more.
Noah Mathis is in town for his buddy’s wedding. Meeting Gemma is merely a perk. But Gemma is used to uncovering information and Noah, well he’s hiding somethings...like his real identity. When the truth breaks will Noah still trust Gemma?
Likable characters, small towns, and charming dialogue, makes Road To You a cute read that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
Gemma Wade is an investigative reporter who has been having a tough time at work. She had to retract a statement she wrote and is now being punished by being sent to Marietta, Montana. She has been ordered to cover the spike in marriages there, but Gemma doesn’t want a fluff piece, she wants something she can sink her teeth in. Turns out Marietta has exactly what she’s looking for and more.
Noah Mathis is in town for his buddy’s wedding. Meeting Gemma is merely a perk. But Gemma is used to uncovering information and Noah, well he’s hiding somethings...like his real identity. When the truth breaks will Noah still trust Gemma?
Likable characters, small towns, and charming dialogue, makes Road To You a cute read that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
June 30, 2018
Secrets and Romance… Gemma has been demoted to writing a fluff piece on the wedding upswing in Marietta Montana. Soon Gemma is almost falling at the feet of Noah, who is town for a wedding. Gemma doesn't disclose that she is a reporter and Noah includes her in his friend's wedding festivities. Gemma stumbles upon Noah's secret and now has to decide what she will do with it. This was a very good story and a mainly sweet whirlwind romance. There is a little steam in the book. I liked this book very much.
October 23, 2018
Gemma has to go to Marietta to research the recent spike in marriages. When she goes to a restaurant where the engagement party for one of the most recent "victims" of love, she bumps into Noah who invites her to be his plus one for the wedding festivities. She goes along with it hoping it will give her an inside scoop for her story. Of course, her real identity comes out and they have to work through it to see if they have a love that will last. I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it.
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