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Bluebell Inn Romance #1
Lake Season
From the bestselling author of The Convenient Groom and A December Bride (now beloved Hallmark Original movies) comes the first novel in a brand-new series!
When their parents die in a tragic accident, Molly Bennett and her siblings pull together to fulfill their parents’ dream: turning their historic home back into an inn.
Adam Bradford (a.k.a. bestselling author Nathanial Grey) is a reclusive author with a bad case of writer’s block. Desperate for inspiration as his deadline approaches, he travels to a North Carolina lake town, the setting of his next novel. There he immediately meets his muse, a young innkeeper who fancies herself in love with his alter ego.
When Molly finds an old letter in the walls of her inn she embarks on a mission with Adam to find the star-crossed lovers and bring them the closure they deserve. But the guest she invites along has secrets of his own. Past and present collide as truths are revealed, and Molly and Adam will have to decide if love is worth trusting.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2019
432 people are currently reading
4278 people want to read
About the author
Denise Hunter
86 books4,684 followersDenise Hunter is the award-winning author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been adapted into Hallmark movies.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 660 reviews
November 26, 2019
I love a North Carolina setting in a book and how fun that this will be a series!
Molly and her siblings lose their parents in a tragic accident. They follow their parents’ wishes by transforming their home into a quaint inn.
Adam Bradford is a bestselling author looking for inspiration. He travels to a North Carolina town, the setting for his next book, and Molly becomes his muse.
Molly finds an old love letter in the inn, and she and Adam embark on finding its owners. Will Molly and Adam find love?
Lake Season is a breezy story, perfect for a day when you are longing for summer. It’s filled family drama, romance, and a touch of mystery with the letter. It brings out all the emotions and keeps you on your toes.
Overall, Lake Season is a lovely story rich with a charming setting and characters I loved.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Molly and her siblings lose their parents in a tragic accident. They follow their parents’ wishes by transforming their home into a quaint inn.
Adam Bradford is a bestselling author looking for inspiration. He travels to a North Carolina town, the setting for his next book, and Molly becomes his muse.
Molly finds an old love letter in the inn, and she and Adam embark on finding its owners. Will Molly and Adam find love?
Lake Season is a breezy story, perfect for a day when you are longing for summer. It’s filled family drama, romance, and a touch of mystery with the letter. It brings out all the emotions and keeps you on your toes.
Overall, Lake Season is a lovely story rich with a charming setting and characters I loved.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
April 15, 2020
A heartwarming story that will put a smile on your face and an extra flutter in your heart. When I discovered that Denise Hunter has written several books that have been made into Hallmark movies I was not surprised. Her descriptive writing and vivid characters really brought this book to life. Not to mention it was so full of family, heart, love, and hope. Molly and her siblings Levi and Haley have recently lost their parents. Determined to keep their parents dreams alive they will do what it takes to turn there run down home into an Inn. One of their first guess is Adam. Adam is sweet and helpful and a little awkward. He is also the best selling author Nathaniel Grey but this is something that only his agent and his best friend know. When Molly discovers a old letter in the wall that never was sent Adam and she decide to bring some closure to the recipient. Will this bring Adam and Molly closer together? And what will happen when his secret comes out?
The romance between Molly and Adam was so sweet. Although it did take them some time to figure it out! I also loved the relationship between all the siblings, they really were so there for one another. This is a series so I’m assuming they will each get their HEA. The secondary story involving the letter really added so much texture to the book. Something I really loved was that there is a crazy coincidence in this book and it was completely addressed. So often in Books there are some things that seem way too unlikely to be coincidental, but in the case of this book they just put it out there and I really appreciated that. If you enjoy a sweet clean romance this one’s for you!
This book in emojis 🏨 🔨 🏐 📖 ✒️ 💗 💌
*** Big thanks to Thomas Nelson for my copy of this book ***
April 17, 2020
Molly Bennett was looking forward to her hospitality internship in Italy. But when a tragic accident kills both of her parents, Molly and her brother decide to complete the renovations on their home to return it to the Inn it once was to allow their younger sister to complete high school in Bluebell.
It's been close to a year, but the Inn is now open and ready for guests. One of their first guests is Adam Bradford. He's looking for inspiration for his next novel, and since his mother had raved about her time spent in Bluebell, he thought it might help to unlock his writer's block. Adam hides the fact that he is Nathaniel Quinn, a famous romance author, preferring to remain anonymous. Molly loves his novels and admits to having a serious crush on Nathaniel Quinn. Molly and Adam form an instant bond over books, and Adam is infatuated with Molly's bubbly personality. When Molly discovers a long lost letter hidden in the walls of the Inn, she enlists the help of Adam to track the writer and recipient. As the two grow closer, insecurities and fears from the past threaten to derail their relationship. Can they trust in God and one another to let down their guards and allow love to blossom in their hearts?
A sweet, charming story of family, friendship and love. I can't wait to return to Bluebell once again.
4.5 stars.
It's been close to a year, but the Inn is now open and ready for guests. One of their first guests is Adam Bradford. He's looking for inspiration for his next novel, and since his mother had raved about her time spent in Bluebell, he thought it might help to unlock his writer's block. Adam hides the fact that he is Nathaniel Quinn, a famous romance author, preferring to remain anonymous. Molly loves his novels and admits to having a serious crush on Nathaniel Quinn. Molly and Adam form an instant bond over books, and Adam is infatuated with Molly's bubbly personality. When Molly discovers a long lost letter hidden in the walls of the Inn, she enlists the help of Adam to track the writer and recipient. As the two grow closer, insecurities and fears from the past threaten to derail their relationship. Can they trust in God and one another to let down their guards and allow love to blossom in their hearts?
A sweet, charming story of family, friendship and love. I can't wait to return to Bluebell once again.
4.5 stars.
January 21, 2020
Happy, dreamy, book hangover sigh. Or, as my mom would so eloquently say, put a fork in me, I’m done.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
December 26, 2019
When their parents die in a tragic car accident, Molly Bennett and her siblings Grace and Levi work together to finish what their parents started, converting their home in the historic Bluebell, North Carolina into an inn. Molly puts on hold up her coveted internship in Italy for her hospitality degree, Levi moves back home to help, along with their youngest Grace as she finishes high school.
Adam Bradford (aka bestselling author Nathanial Quinn) has a bad case of writer’s block and decide to write his next best seller in a lake town to gain more inspiration. His books have been turned into movies and he has yet to reveal himself to the public. He meets Molly, as a guest in her inn, and their attraction to each other was unmistakable. Adam knew that Molly would be his muse.
Molly Bennett in her spare time, loves reading her romance novels by Nathanial Quinn, who is her favorite author, and have read his books over a dozen times. What happens when she overhears that one of her guests may be the elusive author?
Also, during the renovations, Molly finds a long-lost love letter in the walls of her inn, where it was a post office at a time. Knowing Adam is doing research about Bluebell, she partners with him to find the couple.
I enjoyed this book! The love story that develops between Molly and Adam was so sweet and tender that gave me flutters. I love how they met, and how their attraction for each other developed - though with some misunderstanding along the way. I enjoyed how the story was told in two time frames and how it collided beautifully into the present.
What a fantastic read that I highly recommend!!
Adam Bradford (aka bestselling author Nathanial Quinn) has a bad case of writer’s block and decide to write his next best seller in a lake town to gain more inspiration. His books have been turned into movies and he has yet to reveal himself to the public. He meets Molly, as a guest in her inn, and their attraction to each other was unmistakable. Adam knew that Molly would be his muse.
Molly Bennett in her spare time, loves reading her romance novels by Nathanial Quinn, who is her favorite author, and have read his books over a dozen times. What happens when she overhears that one of her guests may be the elusive author?
Also, during the renovations, Molly finds a long-lost love letter in the walls of her inn, where it was a post office at a time. Knowing Adam is doing research about Bluebell, she partners with him to find the couple.
I enjoyed this book! The love story that develops between Molly and Adam was so sweet and tender that gave me flutters. I love how they met, and how their attraction for each other developed - though with some misunderstanding along the way. I enjoyed how the story was told in two time frames and how it collided beautifully into the present.
What a fantastic read that I highly recommend!!
April 5, 2020
Bummer. I was really looking forward to this one, but unfortunately it was a miss for me. That’s okay though, not every book can be a favorite. For some reason, this story felt incredibly formulated and predictable, very cliche’ for me. The characters also pulled one of my biggest pet-peeves and did the unthinkable; they didn’t communicate. ( Oh, the agony I go through when this happens.)
Hunter did incorporate some nice elements to her story though. I liked the setting with the lake and how Bluebell Inn was run by the three siblings. My favorite angle that she penned was the theme of trusting the timing of God’s will.
- All things work together for the good of those who love God.
Hunter did incorporate some nice elements to her story though. I liked the setting with the lake and how Bluebell Inn was run by the three siblings. My favorite angle that she penned was the theme of trusting the timing of God’s will.
- All things work together for the good of those who love God.
November 20, 2019
LAKE SEASON is the first book in the Bluebell Inn Romance series by Denise Hunter. It is all about family and faith and totally heart tugging. It had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to Adam and Molly and all the secondary characters. All of Denise’s characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a person can stand before they completely break down and shatter.
LAKE SEASON is filled with family drama, forgiveness, mystery and romance. It is also an emotional rich story, so much so that it just might be the best novel that I have read by Denise Hunter so far. The letter that was found during renovations of the inn, the mystery of who sent the letter and who it was for, reliving the past, and the secrets that they all hold, made it hard to put down. Also, the fact that the setting is in North Carolina which is an added bonus for me.
LAKE SEASON is about a reclusive author, a book loving innkeeper, and a lost letter. Molly and her siblings tragically lost their parents in an accident and decided to turn their family home into an inn as a tribute to them. That is what their parents were working towards when they died. Adam is the first visitor and came to visit the inn as inspiration to write his next book. Molly mistakes him for a helper her brother has sent over and the scene is very funny. Molly doesn’t know he is an author as he tells her he is there for research. Hang on people, LAKE SEASON is an intense and crazy ride.
LAKE SEASON is a quick read that you can easily read in one sitting and love every minute of it. It is one heck of a crazy emotional roller coaster ridI have never met a Denise Hunter book that I didn’t love and once I started reading I knew I was going on one heck of an emotional journey! Whatever you are reading, put it down, and run and get this book! If you’ve never read a Denise Hunter novel (and you know who you are) this would be a perfect one to hook you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
LAKE SEASON is filled with family drama, forgiveness, mystery and romance. It is also an emotional rich story, so much so that it just might be the best novel that I have read by Denise Hunter so far. The letter that was found during renovations of the inn, the mystery of who sent the letter and who it was for, reliving the past, and the secrets that they all hold, made it hard to put down. Also, the fact that the setting is in North Carolina which is an added bonus for me.
LAKE SEASON is about a reclusive author, a book loving innkeeper, and a lost letter. Molly and her siblings tragically lost their parents in an accident and decided to turn their family home into an inn as a tribute to them. That is what their parents were working towards when they died. Adam is the first visitor and came to visit the inn as inspiration to write his next book. Molly mistakes him for a helper her brother has sent over and the scene is very funny. Molly doesn’t know he is an author as he tells her he is there for research. Hang on people, LAKE SEASON is an intense and crazy ride.
LAKE SEASON is a quick read that you can easily read in one sitting and love every minute of it. It is one heck of a crazy emotional roller coaster ridI have never met a Denise Hunter book that I didn’t love and once I started reading I knew I was going on one heck of an emotional journey! Whatever you are reading, put it down, and run and get this book! If you’ve never read a Denise Hunter novel (and you know who you are) this would be a perfect one to hook you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from CelebrateLit. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
February 17, 2020
If you are new to following me, let me start by saying I’m obsessed with @deniseahunter books! I started reading her books in 2016 and this is my 13th book I’ve read by her. I’ve been on her Dream Team twice for previous releases. If you’ve been following me for a while, you know how crazy it’s been driving me that I haven’t gotten to this release already. Well I finally got to it and I’m super mad that I didn’t get to it sooner! I’ll now be desperately waiting for the next book!
❤️Review❤️
This is book 1 in her new Bluebell Inn series. Swipe to the second picture for synopsis. It’s a Christian fiction romance, but this book deals with so much more than that. It deals with coming to terms with your own identity, being true to yourself, how to deal with grief, and regret, and the importance of family. I love how all of Denise Hunter’s books take place in quaint little towns. Small town romances are the best! This was a truly beautiful story that is told with dual timelines, very similar to an element of Rachel Hauck’s books. (Who is another author I love!) Both timelines had swoon worthy romances. One thing that I liked was that the main love interest was being compared to Noah from The Notebook, but the historical fiction part of the story also reminded me of The Notebook. I felt so attached to both sets of relationship. By the end I was definitely weeping like a baby with a twist that I totally didn’t see coming. The other major element of this story is Molly, Levi, and Grace as a family. I was so touched by their family dynamics and I can’t wait to see how they will grow and develop as the series continues. If you haven’t given Denise Hunter’s books a try yet, this book is definitely a good one to start with because it hits so many great elements of love, family, faith, and friendship. I definitely won’t delay on the rest of the series like I accidentally did with this one!
5 stars!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Would you rather read a book set in the city or a small town? What’s your favorite type of setting?
#denisehunter #bluebellinnseries #smalltownromance #christianfiction #bookone #bookseries #booksthatmademecry #project50books
❤️Review❤️
This is book 1 in her new Bluebell Inn series. Swipe to the second picture for synopsis. It’s a Christian fiction romance, but this book deals with so much more than that. It deals with coming to terms with your own identity, being true to yourself, how to deal with grief, and regret, and the importance of family. I love how all of Denise Hunter’s books take place in quaint little towns. Small town romances are the best! This was a truly beautiful story that is told with dual timelines, very similar to an element of Rachel Hauck’s books. (Who is another author I love!) Both timelines had swoon worthy romances. One thing that I liked was that the main love interest was being compared to Noah from The Notebook, but the historical fiction part of the story also reminded me of The Notebook. I felt so attached to both sets of relationship. By the end I was definitely weeping like a baby with a twist that I totally didn’t see coming. The other major element of this story is Molly, Levi, and Grace as a family. I was so touched by their family dynamics and I can’t wait to see how they will grow and develop as the series continues. If you haven’t given Denise Hunter’s books a try yet, this book is definitely a good one to start with because it hits so many great elements of love, family, faith, and friendship. I definitely won’t delay on the rest of the series like I accidentally did with this one!
5 stars!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Would you rather read a book set in the city or a small town? What’s your favorite type of setting?
#denisehunter #bluebellinnseries #smalltownromance #christianfiction #bookone #bookseries #booksthatmademecry #project50books
January 1, 2020
Loved it! Molly is a refreshing character. Loved the plot’s twist and turns. Loved that there wasn’t a villain lurking behind every corner. Great character development.
December 13, 2019
Anyone who knows me fully understands that I will fangirl ANYTHING Denise Hunter writes—be it contemporary romance, time slip books, grocery lists, etc. So needless to say, I was looking forward to her latest release—Lake Season. And wow, this story captivated me from start to finish.
I feel the need to mention that the temperature dropped into the teens here in Ohio, and so a story set in the summer on the lake is absolutely ideal. The author did a great job painting the North Carolina backdrop with vivid descriptions that helped me envision the charming town of Bluebell.
As for the characters, Molly had such a sweet spirit about her and seemed to be one of those unique individuals that always lights up the room. And she loves reading. So yeah, we could be besties. Adam, the hero, is the character that surprised me the most. He was just such a nice guy. And as the pages wore on, I found myself rooting for him, wanting him to break free from the shadows he hid behind. Of course, the romance element was exploding with spark-filled chemistry. Hunter excels in that area for sure.
What was different about this story is that it’s a time slip. I loved the historical portions of the book, and it seemed to flow perfectly with the contemporary parts. Sometimes time slips can feel choppy and awkward, but this one had smooth transitions. Very well done.
The plot was well thought out and interesting. The romance, like I said above, is spot on. And the pacing was fabulous. If you enjoy stories that are both refreshing and intriguing, then this one is for you! Highly recommend!
*I received a copy from Netgalley. My opinions are my own.
I feel the need to mention that the temperature dropped into the teens here in Ohio, and so a story set in the summer on the lake is absolutely ideal. The author did a great job painting the North Carolina backdrop with vivid descriptions that helped me envision the charming town of Bluebell.
As for the characters, Molly had such a sweet spirit about her and seemed to be one of those unique individuals that always lights up the room. And she loves reading. So yeah, we could be besties. Adam, the hero, is the character that surprised me the most. He was just such a nice guy. And as the pages wore on, I found myself rooting for him, wanting him to break free from the shadows he hid behind. Of course, the romance element was exploding with spark-filled chemistry. Hunter excels in that area for sure.
What was different about this story is that it’s a time slip. I loved the historical portions of the book, and it seemed to flow perfectly with the contemporary parts. Sometimes time slips can feel choppy and awkward, but this one had smooth transitions. Very well done.
The plot was well thought out and interesting. The romance, like I said above, is spot on. And the pacing was fabulous. If you enjoy stories that are both refreshing and intriguing, then this one is for you! Highly recommend!
*I received a copy from Netgalley. My opinions are my own.
March 22, 2020
Lake Season was a perfect contemporary romance story for me when I read it. I loved the characters right away and it was so cute how the heroine, Molly, was a fan of Adam's novels but didn't know he was the author since he writes under a pen name. She would talk about his books and didn't even know he was the author. lol ;)
I loved the sibling relationships. You could tell that they all cared for each other's well being...even if the brother sometimes seemed too controlling.
All in all, I loved Lake Season and definitely recommend it!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I loved the sibling relationships. You could tell that they all cared for each other's well being...even if the brother sometimes seemed too controlling.
All in all, I loved Lake Season and definitely recommend it!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
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January 21, 2020What I love about Denise Hunter's books is how much the reader can sense her enjoyment in writing them. She has such a feel for the wonderfully embellished setting and for the quips and foibles of her leads that you can just imagine her sitting there smiling at a witty turn of phrase or unexpected romantic moment. In short, a delightful romance brimming with personality. I truly enjoy her bird's eye view of the settings that become the canvases for her story worlds as well as the lovely Hallmark flair in which she establishes small communities. As a sucker for an author hero, I was madly in love from the first page.
A delight!
A delight!
October 17, 2019
'You've been so busy trying to protect yourself, you won't let anybody in.'
Denise Hunter begins a new series with this novel, set in a small Bluebell, NC. The Bennett siblings, Molly, Levi, and Grace lost their parents unexpectedly in a car accident and decide to finish turning their home into an inn as their parents were doing at the time of their death. When a reclusive author comes to stay, trying to cure his writer's block, he finds a muse in Molly Bennett. She loves his books but doesn't know he is the author because he writes under a pseudonym. No, Molly thinks she is in love with the author, not the real guy. Molly finds an old letter when they are remodeling the inn, which used to be the post office, and shares it with Adam, the writer, who she doesn't know is the writer. They decided to research this letter and maybe try to find the person who wrote it and the one to whom she wrote it. Thus begins a delightful and moving story, what we've come to expect from Hunter's work.
I found it difficult to tear myself away from this book long enough to do life. I fell in love with Bluebell and the Bennett family. I'm so glad each sibling will get a story. Hunter builds on each character until we are fully vested in their lives. It's as if we can get into their hears and minds and feel their emotions. I was in tears during several scenes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next two in the series. Highly recommended.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Denise Hunter begins a new series with this novel, set in a small Bluebell, NC. The Bennett siblings, Molly, Levi, and Grace lost their parents unexpectedly in a car accident and decide to finish turning their home into an inn as their parents were doing at the time of their death. When a reclusive author comes to stay, trying to cure his writer's block, he finds a muse in Molly Bennett. She loves his books but doesn't know he is the author because he writes under a pseudonym. No, Molly thinks she is in love with the author, not the real guy. Molly finds an old letter when they are remodeling the inn, which used to be the post office, and shares it with Adam, the writer, who she doesn't know is the writer. They decided to research this letter and maybe try to find the person who wrote it and the one to whom she wrote it. Thus begins a delightful and moving story, what we've come to expect from Hunter's work.
I found it difficult to tear myself away from this book long enough to do life. I fell in love with Bluebell and the Bennett family. I'm so glad each sibling will get a story. Hunter builds on each character until we are fully vested in their lives. It's as if we can get into their hears and minds and feel their emotions. I was in tears during several scenes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next two in the series. Highly recommended.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 18, 2019
LAKE SEASON is one of those stories that is a delight to read! It has wonderful characters who will pull on readers' emotions, and a small-town setting full of family and friendships. Fans of inspirational romance and the genre should definitely not miss this one!
I pretty much could not stop smiling through most of this story. I just loved every minute! I loved getting to know these characters and seeing the romance blossom. I literally laughed out loud at moments and wanted to cry at others. It's a story with all the feels about a place and family that I can't wait to come back to next year with the next book! I also liked that the inspirational element wasn't preachy or overly strong, but felt naturally part of these characters' lives. This makes a good read for general romance and women's fiction readers as well.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed this story! Delightful characters, a charming setting, some heartbreak, a bit of a mystery, and a sweet romance made for the perfect read. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series!
Content: References to a unwed pregnancy, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
I pretty much could not stop smiling through most of this story. I just loved every minute! I loved getting to know these characters and seeing the romance blossom. I literally laughed out loud at moments and wanted to cry at others. It's a story with all the feels about a place and family that I can't wait to come back to next year with the next book! I also liked that the inspirational element wasn't preachy or overly strong, but felt naturally part of these characters' lives. This makes a good read for general romance and women's fiction readers as well.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed this story! Delightful characters, a charming setting, some heartbreak, a bit of a mystery, and a sweet romance made for the perfect read. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series!
Content: References to a unwed pregnancy, but clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
August 24, 2019
New series, new family, new location! These are all the things I love about one of my favourite authors releasing a new collection.
A totally different approach - one that at first I wasn’t too sure about but comes together so perfectly!
Tragedy has hit the Bennett siblings, and I was rooting for them from the start for happiness and recovery. This story begins with Molly, middle child, but oldest daughter & she definitely has taken on that role of matriarch. Adam is their first guest at the Inn and will be staying for the summer.
So many parallels between both sets of storylines and all the while you’ll be carried away to another time and place - this book captured my heart! I loved the placement of God in all the right places. ♥️
Lake Season has a unique style and plot. There is no guessing what will come around the corner. Those pages will just keep turning...
Thank you to Netgalley for the eARC. This is my honest review.
A totally different approach - one that at first I wasn’t too sure about but comes together so perfectly!
Tragedy has hit the Bennett siblings, and I was rooting for them from the start for happiness and recovery. This story begins with Molly, middle child, but oldest daughter & she definitely has taken on that role of matriarch. Adam is their first guest at the Inn and will be staying for the summer.
So many parallels between both sets of storylines and all the while you’ll be carried away to another time and place - this book captured my heart! I loved the placement of God in all the right places. ♥️
Lake Season has a unique style and plot. There is no guessing what will come around the corner. Those pages will just keep turning...
Thank you to Netgalley for the eARC. This is my honest review.
January 19, 2020
Another fantastic story from Denise Hunter! Molly is perfectly relatable, and Adam is a dream. Their immediate chemistry had me cheering for them from the start. I loved the element of mystery and the dual timeline effect. And the first kiss?! Simply magical. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
May 12, 2020
This is officially my favorite Denise Hunter book! I loved the characters of Adam and Molly and the mystery they stumble upon and try to solve. The story was absolutely charming and I loved the main characters bookish sides...they would be my people! Love, love, love this book and can't wait for books two and three in the series.
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May 29, 2020A lovely romance with a bit of a time-slip element that caused some tears at the end. A satisfying summer read.
November 20, 2019
4.5/5
Lake Season by Denise Hunter is so good! When I found out that Ms. Hunter would be setting her newest series in North Carolina, I knew I needed to read it. I connected with the story right away and, honestly, it got better and better the further I read. I loved the ending.
Adam has come to Bluebell, NC to find the perfect setting for his newest novel. He writes under a pseudonym (Nathanial Grey) and has been wildly successful in his writing career. Nobody knows his true identity, including one of his biggest fans, who happens to be Innkeeper at the Bluebell Inn. Adam came to Bluebell Inn to book a room for an extended stay during the summer so he could do research and work on his next manuscript. When he and Molly strike up conversation, and then become good friends, he knows that he really needs to tell her his true identity. Especially since Molly is such a big fan of Nathanial Grey’s books.
The way that Adam and Molly become closer is so sweet and great to read. There are also other things at play in their relationship, including a mystery involving a long lost letter, some interference by Adam’s agent, and lingering fear from events that happened to both Adam and Molly in their individual pasts. I loved watching these two working to solve the mystery around the letter while working through their past hurts, but it was sometimes a little bit torturous to watch them wrestle with their complicated feelings. My own emotions related to this story intensified as I got closer to the end. I love the way Ms. Hunter weaved the present-day storyline in with the one from the past, and I love that these two stories had some common themes. There were a couple of twists thrown in that I didn’t see coming, and I was overjoyed at the way everything worked out. One scene near the end of the story was quite emotional and made my eyes sting with tears.
This is a strong start to the Bluebell Inn series, and I am impatient for the release of the next book. It seems to me that the next book will focus on Molly’s brother, and I’m excited to know more about him in (hopefully) this same Inn setting.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you, Thomas Nelson!
Find this review and more like it on my blog, Into the Hall of Books!
Lake Season by Denise Hunter is so good! When I found out that Ms. Hunter would be setting her newest series in North Carolina, I knew I needed to read it. I connected with the story right away and, honestly, it got better and better the further I read. I loved the ending.
Adam has come to Bluebell, NC to find the perfect setting for his newest novel. He writes under a pseudonym (Nathanial Grey) and has been wildly successful in his writing career. Nobody knows his true identity, including one of his biggest fans, who happens to be Innkeeper at the Bluebell Inn. Adam came to Bluebell Inn to book a room for an extended stay during the summer so he could do research and work on his next manuscript. When he and Molly strike up conversation, and then become good friends, he knows that he really needs to tell her his true identity. Especially since Molly is such a big fan of Nathanial Grey’s books.
The way that Adam and Molly become closer is so sweet and great to read. There are also other things at play in their relationship, including a mystery involving a long lost letter, some interference by Adam’s agent, and lingering fear from events that happened to both Adam and Molly in their individual pasts. I loved watching these two working to solve the mystery around the letter while working through their past hurts, but it was sometimes a little bit torturous to watch them wrestle with their complicated feelings. My own emotions related to this story intensified as I got closer to the end. I love the way Ms. Hunter weaved the present-day storyline in with the one from the past, and I love that these two stories had some common themes. There were a couple of twists thrown in that I didn’t see coming, and I was overjoyed at the way everything worked out. One scene near the end of the story was quite emotional and made my eyes sting with tears.
This is a strong start to the Bluebell Inn series, and I am impatient for the release of the next book. It seems to me that the next book will focus on Molly’s brother, and I’m excited to know more about him in (hopefully) this same Inn setting.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you, Thomas Nelson!
Find this review and more like it on my blog, Into the Hall of Books!
February 6, 2020
Oh my word. I loved this so much. How did I not know about Denise Hunter's books?
The lovely small town of Bluebell, North Carolina is the perfect setting for this book, and so idyllic and summer-y. I absolutely love small town settings like this one. I wish Bluebell was a real place so I could go visit!
Hunter lays the backstory for the whole series very well early on in the book without giving you an info dump. This book is centered around Molly, one of three siblings, and the next two books will follow her brother and sister. Being so close with my own siblings, I greatly enjoyed that aspect of the book, and the sibling interactions were so realistic and relatable, they had me chuckling out loud at times. Speaking of characters, I fell in love with our main characters from the start. Molly is so innocent and sweet, yet a past relationship has her having a hard time trusting. I found it very easy to relate to Molly, and I think she and I would get along very well in real life. Adam was, in a word, adorable. Ridiculously shy, nerdy in the best way, and an author? Hello. I adored him so much. His backstory was very intriguing as well and I loved the happy, but realistic conclusion to that aspect of the story.
I think I found a new favorite with Lake Season! I will definitely be grabbing the rest of the series as soon as they release. I highly recommend this book if you love sweet, summer-y settings, realistic characters, a tiny bit of mystery, and sweet romance. Well done, Ms. Hunter!
FTC DIsclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
The lovely small town of Bluebell, North Carolina is the perfect setting for this book, and so idyllic and summer-y. I absolutely love small town settings like this one. I wish Bluebell was a real place so I could go visit!
Hunter lays the backstory for the whole series very well early on in the book without giving you an info dump. This book is centered around Molly, one of three siblings, and the next two books will follow her brother and sister. Being so close with my own siblings, I greatly enjoyed that aspect of the book, and the sibling interactions were so realistic and relatable, they had me chuckling out loud at times. Speaking of characters, I fell in love with our main characters from the start. Molly is so innocent and sweet, yet a past relationship has her having a hard time trusting. I found it very easy to relate to Molly, and I think she and I would get along very well in real life. Adam was, in a word, adorable. Ridiculously shy, nerdy in the best way, and an author? Hello. I adored him so much. His backstory was very intriguing as well and I loved the happy, but realistic conclusion to that aspect of the story.
I think I found a new favorite with Lake Season! I will definitely be grabbing the rest of the series as soon as they release. I highly recommend this book if you love sweet, summer-y settings, realistic characters, a tiny bit of mystery, and sweet romance. Well done, Ms. Hunter!
FTC DIsclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 29, 2020
A great read. It starts with a family tragedy when three young adults find out their parents have been killed in a car crash. The younger daughter is in High School and lived with her parents. Her older brother and sister have already moved away from home before the crash and have their careers planned out. It doesn't include staying in Bluebell, North Carolina. When the older brother and sister return to North Carolina to make funeral arrangements and figure out where their younger sister will live and finish High School. A big favor is asked by their younger sister. She wants to stay in Bluebell, North Carolina and finish school and make her parents dream come through by turning their home into the Inn it used to be. Their parents had already started this project before their death. it was almost complected. They finally decide to get the inn fixed up and ready for busy and try making some money from it. They grown closer as a family. Their first guest is a surprise to everyone when they find out whom he really is. There is hurt, sorrow, pain, love, and happiness. A must read.
aaAa
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November 20, 2019
Oh, I loved this story so much! I loved the way Molly and Adam were drawn to each other from their first meeting. They just clicked and connected, yet there was so much more to it. Secrets and issues with self-worth made it hard for Adam to be open about who he was. Molly had her own issues that she was dealing with, as well. These things were holding her back from really embracing life.
I enjoyed the dual timeline aspects of this story. There were flashbacks every once in a while so that the reader could see what had happened in the past. At the same time, the reader got to see Adam and Molly slowly discover the truths behind the relationship of the couple from the past.
I loved this story and am really looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed the dual timeline aspects of this story. There were flashbacks every once in a while so that the reader could see what had happened in the past. At the same time, the reader got to see Adam and Molly slowly discover the truths behind the relationship of the couple from the past.
I loved this story and am really looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 26, 2019
As an author I've met more than once, I devour every new book and Hallmark movie released from Denise Hunter. I recommend and gift her titles often. As an avid reader, I prefer to wait for a series to be complete so I can read the titles in tandum. I broke my pact and read her newest book, the first in a new series and now have to endure a wait until the next title is released. It's hard to pick favorites from authors you enjoy so much but this book is definitely my favorite by Denise to date. For her first attempt at time-slip she nailed it! Memorable characters, back stories, setting, and emotional storyline. 5☆
April 30, 2020
This is my first Denise Hunter book, and it most certainly won’t be my last. Lake Season made me laugh, cry, and experience every emotion in between. I fell in love with the characters and the story Hunter weaves so flawlessly.
I absolutely could not put this book down. I felt myself growing along with the characters, especially Molly. This story will fill you with hope and wonder at God’s love, and I can’t put into words how much this book means to me. It is certainly one I will treasure always.
I absolutely could not put this book down. I felt myself growing along with the characters, especially Molly. This story will fill you with hope and wonder at God’s love, and I can’t put into words how much this book means to me. It is certainly one I will treasure always.
June 8, 2022
This was such a sweet story about grief, family, and second chances at love. I enjoyed meeting the Bennett family and the little sprinkles of dual timeline were not only fun but also intriguing. The way it all came together in the end was so emotional and heartfelt. I highly recommend this book!
December 2, 2019
Reviewed at The Power of Words: https://bit.ly/36USeiN
When a book captures you emotionally at the prologue, you know it’s going to be a great read. Lake Season begins a new series by the Denise Hunter who never fails to entertain and I eagerly anticipate all that’s to come. This heartwarming romance goes beyond surface level with its character depth and complexity that makes it so rich.
I loved the idyllic setting, a family inn on a lake in North Carolina. Trying to bring their parents’ dream to fruition, Molly Bennett and her siblings work to make the inn a reality, but there’s no guarantee that it will be a success. And even if it is successful, they plan to sell it after a few years – but that just might change.
While Lake Season is Molly and Adam’s story, we get to know the other siblings well, Levi and Grace, and their stories are eagerly anticipated. Like any other family, there may be moments of bickering and disagreement, but their love and support for each other always shines brightly.
Adam, the inn’s first guest, is such an appealing leading man! He’s a bestselling writer who just happens to be Molly’s favorite, but writing under a pseudonym hides this fact from her. He has a slightly nerdy aura, which so easily drew me to him. Both Adam and Molly have background experiences that become problematic in their growing relationship. Molly struggles with resentment and fear from a previous relationship, while Adam has feelings in inadequacy, realizing he will always disappoint his father, no matter how successful he is.
One of my favorite parts is the discovery of an old letter during the construction, with Molly and Adam joining to investigate and seek the letter’s intended recipient. This storyline is smoothly woven into the novel’s fabric, going back to a time of prejudice and broken dreams. Lake Season is a multilayered story with an emotional pull that drew me into the characters’ lives, both past and present. There’s also a little twist toward the end that I loved.
Lake Season is a delightful read and I look forward to the stories of Levi and Grace. Recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
When a book captures you emotionally at the prologue, you know it’s going to be a great read. Lake Season begins a new series by the Denise Hunter who never fails to entertain and I eagerly anticipate all that’s to come. This heartwarming romance goes beyond surface level with its character depth and complexity that makes it so rich.
I loved the idyllic setting, a family inn on a lake in North Carolina. Trying to bring their parents’ dream to fruition, Molly Bennett and her siblings work to make the inn a reality, but there’s no guarantee that it will be a success. And even if it is successful, they plan to sell it after a few years – but that just might change.
While Lake Season is Molly and Adam’s story, we get to know the other siblings well, Levi and Grace, and their stories are eagerly anticipated. Like any other family, there may be moments of bickering and disagreement, but their love and support for each other always shines brightly.
Adam, the inn’s first guest, is such an appealing leading man! He’s a bestselling writer who just happens to be Molly’s favorite, but writing under a pseudonym hides this fact from her. He has a slightly nerdy aura, which so easily drew me to him. Both Adam and Molly have background experiences that become problematic in their growing relationship. Molly struggles with resentment and fear from a previous relationship, while Adam has feelings in inadequacy, realizing he will always disappoint his father, no matter how successful he is.
One of my favorite parts is the discovery of an old letter during the construction, with Molly and Adam joining to investigate and seek the letter’s intended recipient. This storyline is smoothly woven into the novel’s fabric, going back to a time of prejudice and broken dreams. Lake Season is a multilayered story with an emotional pull that drew me into the characters’ lives, both past and present. There’s also a little twist toward the end that I loved.
Lake Season is a delightful read and I look forward to the stories of Levi and Grace. Recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
January 11, 2020
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
I'm not a fan of the "clean" romance. The ones I've read are just not that well written, it's not that they don't have sex or have a religious component. A well written story stands on its' own with no need of a marketing label. "Lake Season" has a great plot and wonderful characters but, it just doesn't live for me, it has no passion. The author holds the plot and characters at arms length, telling us the story, but not letting us live it.
Molly Bennett and her brother and sister have been reeling from the tragic death of their parents and the need to pull together as a family in order to make their dream a reality. It has taken everything they had to come together, renovate and open their historic home as a bed and breakfast inn. Molly had to give up her dream of living in Italy, her brother, Levi, left a successful career in California, but together with their youngest sister, Grace, they have succeeded. But Molly's grief is never far from the surface and that, along with the betrayal of a former boyfriend, has left her wary of relationships.
Adam Bradford is their first guest. He is in Bluebill, NC scouting a location for a new book. Mild mannered Adam is the alter ego of bestselling author Nathanial Grey. Adam has kept his real name a secret from his millions of fans because where Grey's heroes are handsome, outgoing, masculine and romantic, Adam is rather a recluse who has trouble expressing his feelings. Adam takes one look at beautiful Molly and thinks he has found his muse, but he still has a serious case of writer's block.
During the final stage of renovation, Molly finds an old letter that was lost when the inn was a post office. She is intrigued with the story behind the letter and asks Adam to help her track down the star-crossed lovers. This quest takes Molly and Adam to more than the two people in the letter, it takes them on a journey to each other.
I'm not a fan of the "clean" romance. The ones I've read are just not that well written, it's not that they don't have sex or have a religious component. A well written story stands on its' own with no need of a marketing label. "Lake Season" has a great plot and wonderful characters but, it just doesn't live for me, it has no passion. The author holds the plot and characters at arms length, telling us the story, but not letting us live it.
Molly Bennett and her brother and sister have been reeling from the tragic death of their parents and the need to pull together as a family in order to make their dream a reality. It has taken everything they had to come together, renovate and open their historic home as a bed and breakfast inn. Molly had to give up her dream of living in Italy, her brother, Levi, left a successful career in California, but together with their youngest sister, Grace, they have succeeded. But Molly's grief is never far from the surface and that, along with the betrayal of a former boyfriend, has left her wary of relationships.
Adam Bradford is their first guest. He is in Bluebill, NC scouting a location for a new book. Mild mannered Adam is the alter ego of bestselling author Nathanial Grey. Adam has kept his real name a secret from his millions of fans because where Grey's heroes are handsome, outgoing, masculine and romantic, Adam is rather a recluse who has trouble expressing his feelings. Adam takes one look at beautiful Molly and thinks he has found his muse, but he still has a serious case of writer's block.
During the final stage of renovation, Molly finds an old letter that was lost when the inn was a post office. She is intrigued with the story behind the letter and asks Adam to help her track down the star-crossed lovers. This quest takes Molly and Adam to more than the two people in the letter, it takes them on a journey to each other.
August 29, 2019
Lake Season is the first in the Bluebell Inn Romance series. I usually don't enjoy a first book in a series a lot because I am getting to know the characters and am not connected to them very much. In this book I got connected to the characters from the get go. I enjoyed this story and hated for it to end but with a series I will get to see the characters again in subsequent books. I enjoyed the friendship of Molly and Adam that grew into love. Molly with her family are running an inn that was formerly a post office and a home. It was a dream of Molly's parents to open this inn in this small town once the father retired from his career as a physician but they were tragically killed in an auto accident before the dream could be fulfilled. Adam shows up at the inn and rents a room. Molly and Adam quickly become friends when they get involved solving a mystery. What Molly does not know is that Adam is keeping a secret. She does not know that Adam is her favorite author. What will she think when she realizes Adam has been hiding who he is? I also loved the time slip storyline. There are some twists that I did not see coming. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. The next one will be centered around Molly's brother Levi. I was hoping it would be her baby sister but I guess she has some more growing up to do. I am so enjoying this series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Lake Season will be released on November 12. Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for providing me a digital copy to read and review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Lake Season will be released on November 12. Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for providing me a digital copy to read and review.
October 8, 2019
I've heard readers say they will give a book one or two chapters and if not interested it will get put aside. However, one can't do that with a Denise Hunter novel! A few chapters in I simply thought this book was about a shallow, immature, fangirling heroine obsessing over her favorite male author. But loving Hunter's books as I do, I kept on reading and found out just how very wrong I was.
Lake Season is an absolutely delightful read—one that will scatter your battered emotions all over the page with laughing-out-loud moments, a dual timeline with two angst-filled romances, heartbreaking, ugly cry scenes, and very likeable characters. Once again Ms. Hunter exhibits her expertise as an author by penning a unique, witty, multifaceted story with as many layers as an onion!
Guaranteed to keep the reader madly flipping those pages to discover the secrets contained in an old letter and the slim possibility of a HEA after a deceit is revealed—Lake Season is definitely one not to be missed!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review.**
Lake Season is an absolutely delightful read—one that will scatter your battered emotions all over the page with laughing-out-loud moments, a dual timeline with two angst-filled romances, heartbreaking, ugly cry scenes, and very likeable characters. Once again Ms. Hunter exhibits her expertise as an author by penning a unique, witty, multifaceted story with as many layers as an onion!
Guaranteed to keep the reader madly flipping those pages to discover the secrets contained in an old letter and the slim possibility of a HEA after a deceit is revealed—Lake Season is definitely one not to be missed!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review.**
November 12, 2019
I'm always happy to pick up a new book by author Denise Hunter. I've been reading her books for a long time and always enjoy the stories she creates. This is the first book in a new series and it's off to a good start!
If you love sweet, gentle romances, this is your book. It's predictable like a Hallmark movie but I LOVE Hallmark movies! It kind of has a story within a story with some flashbacks to the past as Molly and Adam are trying to find the people associated with a long, lost letter. In the beginning the story progression was slow. It seemed to spin in the same place for a long time before moving forward but it really gave me time to get to know the characters of Molly and Adam- who are endearing and so easy to root for.
I don't think this is my favorite book by Denise Hunter but I did enjoy it and I'm looking forward to the next book!
Content: kissing, Christian fiction elements
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
If you love sweet, gentle romances, this is your book. It's predictable like a Hallmark movie but I LOVE Hallmark movies! It kind of has a story within a story with some flashbacks to the past as Molly and Adam are trying to find the people associated with a long, lost letter. In the beginning the story progression was slow. It seemed to spin in the same place for a long time before moving forward but it really gave me time to get to know the characters of Molly and Adam- who are endearing and so easy to root for.
I don't think this is my favorite book by Denise Hunter but I did enjoy it and I'm looking forward to the next book!
Content: kissing, Christian fiction elements
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
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