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Sweetwater Springs #4
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek
USA Today bestselling author Annie Rains welcomes you back to Sweetwater Springs, North Carolina, with a charming friends-to-lovers story between a sexy fireman and the beautiful woman who mends his heart.
Firefighter Luke Marini moved to the small town of Sweetwater Springs with the highest of hopes - new town, new job, and new neighbors who know nothing of his past. And that's just how he wants to keep it. But it's nearly impossible when the gorgeous brunette next door decides to be the neighborhood welcome wagon. She's sugar, spice, and everything nice - but getting close to someone again is playing with fire.
Brenna McConnell put college on hold to raise her little sister. Now that Eve is grown, Brenna is ready to leave Blueberry Creek and finish what she started. Moving on isn't easy, however, when her gruff new neighbor gives Eve a dangerous firefighting job. And yet, even as Brenna is telling him off for putting her sister in harm's way, she can't deny the sizzling chemistry between them. She put her dreams on hold once. Is she willing to make that sacrifice again for a chance at forever?
Includes the bonus novella Sealed with a Kiss by Melinda Curtis!
Firefighter Luke Marini moved to the small town of Sweetwater Springs with the highest of hopes - new town, new job, and new neighbors who know nothing of his past. And that's just how he wants to keep it. But it's nearly impossible when the gorgeous brunette next door decides to be the neighborhood welcome wagon. She's sugar, spice, and everything nice - but getting close to someone again is playing with fire.
Brenna McConnell put college on hold to raise her little sister. Now that Eve is grown, Brenna is ready to leave Blueberry Creek and finish what she started. Moving on isn't easy, however, when her gruff new neighbor gives Eve a dangerous firefighting job. And yet, even as Brenna is telling him off for putting her sister in harm's way, she can't deny the sizzling chemistry between them. She put her dreams on hold once. Is she willing to make that sacrifice again for a chance at forever?
Includes the bonus novella Sealed with a Kiss by Melinda Curtis!
448 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 25, 2020
128 people are currently reading
1891 people want to read
About the author
Annie Rains
43 books1,496 followersAnnie Rains is a contemporary romance author who writes small town love stories set in fictional towns on the coast of North Carolina. Raised in one of America's largest military communities, Annie often features heroes who fight for their countries, while also fighting for a place to call home and a good woman to love. When Annie isn't writing, she's spending time with her husband and 3 children, or reading a book by one of her favorite authors.
If you enjoyed the Hero's Welcome series, don't miss the short wedding story for Kat and Micah (Welcome to Forever). Get it here for FREE: https://www.instafreebie.com/free/aTSl1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
March 7, 2020
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
After Brenna's parents were killed in car accident, she gave up college and lost her fiance to take care of her younger sister. Running her mother's bakery has made her a nice living but it is not her dream. After her sister moves out and starts her dream job, Brenna can't help but think it is time for her to get a second chance at her dreams.
Luke is new to Sweetwater Springs but he's already acting fire chief, finding himself in the middle of a sister fight, and falling for his neighbor.
Brenna and Luke think they know what they want in life but they're going to find out what they need.
“So we agree. Neither of us is kissing the other,” he said.
New to the Sweetwater Springs series, others could start comfortably here, like I did, and not feel lost in the series. I enjoyed the easy pace and lead in to this small town and Brenna and Luke's lives. These two have been neighbors for a couple months but Luke has been a bit standoffish because of a relationship that went sour that he had with his previous neighbor in a different town. I thought there could have been more background on this relationship as I didn't really grasp the emotional importance of it and why it made it so Luke didn't want to even become friends with Brenna. His reservations don't last very long though and he finds himself with Brenna pretty soon.
They were taking things slow but his racing heart had somehow missed the message.
Brenna's character had a quiet composure, even when she snaps a bit and throws banana pieces at her sister. She came off solid as she stepped up to take care of Eve, her sister, even while Eve acts immature and bratty to her. I would have liked to have more scenes with her aunt and friends to draw her character personality out more. Brenna and Luke were pleasant together, this was a kissing but bedroom door closed story, so their friendship on the road to love was highlighted more than their physical relationship. They have some hurdles to get over, Brenna thinking a long distance relationship would never work and Luke not wanting to open up about the burns on his back that he received in a fire that killed his brother, but for some ending quick dramatic fighting, they were a pretty relaxed couple.
He leaned toward her, pinning her with his gaze. “So what is it you want in this moment, Brenna?”
“You,” she said simply.
I thought the story could have benefited from utilizing of the setting, involving the town and townspeople more, the most shown secondary character was Eve and she was more irritating with her immaturity than young growing pains. The fire station scenes didn't provide a lot for Luke's character as most involved Eve and another firefighter who disrespected Luke, to the point that they mouth-off when Luke catches them about to make-out at work, the scenarios lacked a feeling of professionalism, thus realness. The characters also seemed to jump from point A to point B, without a connecting thread between. Brenna was at work then home, Luke was at work then home, the writing flow was fine but substance that makes a story fulfilling was missing for me.
The bedroom door closed and more low-key story and couple could be elements others would enjoy. If you're a reader of the Sweetwater Springs series then you'd probably enjoy revisiting the town and residents more than a new to the series reader like me.
After Brenna's parents were killed in car accident, she gave up college and lost her fiance to take care of her younger sister. Running her mother's bakery has made her a nice living but it is not her dream. After her sister moves out and starts her dream job, Brenna can't help but think it is time for her to get a second chance at her dreams.
Luke is new to Sweetwater Springs but he's already acting fire chief, finding himself in the middle of a sister fight, and falling for his neighbor.
Brenna and Luke think they know what they want in life but they're going to find out what they need.
“So we agree. Neither of us is kissing the other,” he said.
New to the Sweetwater Springs series, others could start comfortably here, like I did, and not feel lost in the series. I enjoyed the easy pace and lead in to this small town and Brenna and Luke's lives. These two have been neighbors for a couple months but Luke has been a bit standoffish because of a relationship that went sour that he had with his previous neighbor in a different town. I thought there could have been more background on this relationship as I didn't really grasp the emotional importance of it and why it made it so Luke didn't want to even become friends with Brenna. His reservations don't last very long though and he finds himself with Brenna pretty soon.
They were taking things slow but his racing heart had somehow missed the message.
Brenna's character had a quiet composure, even when she snaps a bit and throws banana pieces at her sister. She came off solid as she stepped up to take care of Eve, her sister, even while Eve acts immature and bratty to her. I would have liked to have more scenes with her aunt and friends to draw her character personality out more. Brenna and Luke were pleasant together, this was a kissing but bedroom door closed story, so their friendship on the road to love was highlighted more than their physical relationship. They have some hurdles to get over, Brenna thinking a long distance relationship would never work and Luke not wanting to open up about the burns on his back that he received in a fire that killed his brother, but for some ending quick dramatic fighting, they were a pretty relaxed couple.
He leaned toward her, pinning her with his gaze. “So what is it you want in this moment, Brenna?”
“You,” she said simply.
I thought the story could have benefited from utilizing of the setting, involving the town and townspeople more, the most shown secondary character was Eve and she was more irritating with her immaturity than young growing pains. The fire station scenes didn't provide a lot for Luke's character as most involved Eve and another firefighter who disrespected Luke, to the point that they mouth-off when Luke catches them about to make-out at work, the scenarios lacked a feeling of professionalism, thus realness. The characters also seemed to jump from point A to point B, without a connecting thread between. Brenna was at work then home, Luke was at work then home, the writing flow was fine but substance that makes a story fulfilling was missing for me.
The bedroom door closed and more low-key story and couple could be elements others would enjoy. If you're a reader of the Sweetwater Springs series then you'd probably enjoy revisiting the town and residents more than a new to the series reader like me.
February 29, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK (Sweetwater Springs Book #4) by Annie Rains is another wonderful addition to the Sweetwater Springs contemporary romance series. Ms. Rains has written a friends-to-lovers story that pulled at every one of my heartstrings.
Brenna McConnell put her college education to become a teacher on hold to finish raising her younger sister, Eve when their parents are killed in an accident. Brenna takes over her mother’s catering business with her aunt and when her sister graduates from high school she fears her sister’s desire to become a firefighter like their father. Eve is headstrong and difficult with Brenna acting like a mother instead of the sister she misses which causes a rift between them.
Firefighter Luke Marini moves next door to the sisters to start over in a new town. He immediately notices the beautiful brunette next door, but one of the reasons he moved was to get away from his previous neighbor and have people not know about his past. Brenna welcomes her new neighbor even as he seems cold to her neighborly advances, but Luke is finding he cannot stay away from the temptation of the sweet Brenna.
Luke helps Brenna realize that her sister is an adult, even though she may not act like one at times and it is time for Brenna to work on realizing her own dreams. Brenna is used to sacrificing for others and she is finding it difficult to only think of herself, especially when wonderful firefighter may be her chance at a future that may be slightly different than what she always dreamed of.
I love Ms. Rain’s storytelling! It pulls me in to her small-town characters and lives effortlessly. Brenna and Luke both had so much going on emotionally, past and present and yet Ms. Rain’s writing makes you feel empathy and not sympathy. The growth and changes flow throughout the story, including Brenna and Eve’s relationship. Sometimes what we believe will make us happy, is not necessarily so and both of the main characters learn that and grow. All the secondary characters are fully fleshed out and the sex is all behind closed doors.
I love this book and all the Sweetwater Springs books and recommend them all! I want to thank Forever Books and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC. It was very much my pleasure.
STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK (Sweetwater Springs Book #4) by Annie Rains is another wonderful addition to the Sweetwater Springs contemporary romance series. Ms. Rains has written a friends-to-lovers story that pulled at every one of my heartstrings.
Brenna McConnell put her college education to become a teacher on hold to finish raising her younger sister, Eve when their parents are killed in an accident. Brenna takes over her mother’s catering business with her aunt and when her sister graduates from high school she fears her sister’s desire to become a firefighter like their father. Eve is headstrong and difficult with Brenna acting like a mother instead of the sister she misses which causes a rift between them.
Firefighter Luke Marini moves next door to the sisters to start over in a new town. He immediately notices the beautiful brunette next door, but one of the reasons he moved was to get away from his previous neighbor and have people not know about his past. Brenna welcomes her new neighbor even as he seems cold to her neighborly advances, but Luke is finding he cannot stay away from the temptation of the sweet Brenna.
Luke helps Brenna realize that her sister is an adult, even though she may not act like one at times and it is time for Brenna to work on realizing her own dreams. Brenna is used to sacrificing for others and she is finding it difficult to only think of herself, especially when wonderful firefighter may be her chance at a future that may be slightly different than what she always dreamed of.
I love Ms. Rain’s storytelling! It pulls me in to her small-town characters and lives effortlessly. Brenna and Luke both had so much going on emotionally, past and present and yet Ms. Rain’s writing makes you feel empathy and not sympathy. The growth and changes flow throughout the story, including Brenna and Eve’s relationship. Sometimes what we believe will make us happy, is not necessarily so and both of the main characters learn that and grow. All the secondary characters are fully fleshed out and the sex is all behind closed doors.
I love this book and all the Sweetwater Springs books and recommend them all! I want to thank Forever Books and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC. It was very much my pleasure.
March 2, 2020
With Luke a settling into a new position at the local firehouse in a new town, he’s not looking for love. Even less so with a neighbor, because if things go bad it could be an awkward every day, right? However, Brenna is in his path and soon in his heart.
Brenna isn’t looking for love either since she’s not planning on staying in town. She’s off to finish her degree after putting her schooling on hold to care for her sister since their parents were killed in a car crash. But her new neighbor Luke proves to be irresistible. However, Brenna’s not entirely happy with Luke when he hires her sister as the new firefighter. Since losing their parents, Brenna, can’t help the overprotective tendencies she feels. Something her younger sister does not appreciate. There’s some back and forth with Eve and Brenna and I really wanted to shake Eve a few times because she was sooo ungrateful. However, after getting Eve’s side of things, I could understand a little of her behavior, even if it was childish, in my opinion.
Luke and Brenna weren’t looking for love, but isn’t that when you usually find it? Sure, there were some obstacles, but I enjoyed the sweet and gradual, inevitable progression of their romance! The small-town of Sweetwater Springs sounded charming, and the story was filled with a fun cast of secondary characters.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Brenna isn’t looking for love either since she’s not planning on staying in town. She’s off to finish her degree after putting her schooling on hold to care for her sister since their parents were killed in a car crash. But her new neighbor Luke proves to be irresistible. However, Brenna’s not entirely happy with Luke when he hires her sister as the new firefighter. Since losing their parents, Brenna, can’t help the overprotective tendencies she feels. Something her younger sister does not appreciate. There’s some back and forth with Eve and Brenna and I really wanted to shake Eve a few times because she was sooo ungrateful. However, after getting Eve’s side of things, I could understand a little of her behavior, even if it was childish, in my opinion.
Luke and Brenna weren’t looking for love, but isn’t that when you usually find it? Sure, there were some obstacles, but I enjoyed the sweet and gradual, inevitable progression of their romance! The small-town of Sweetwater Springs sounded charming, and the story was filled with a fun cast of secondary characters.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2020
4.5/5
This is the fourth book in the Sweetwater Springs series and this lives up to it’s name, it doesn’t get any sweeter than this! You can definitely read this on it’s own but after four books I’ve become really attached to the residents of this adorable town and really believe I’ve enjoyed this series as much as I have because I’ve read all of the books.
As much as I’ve liked every single book in this series this one was my absolute favorite so far. I say so far because I’m hoping Annie Rains keeps on writing these books for a long time. You know those books that truly provide an escape for you when you read them? The ones where you forget about anything troubling in your own life because you get so caught up in the story and you forget you’re not actually living in a picturesque little town with a hot firefighter as your next door neighbor? Ok, that last part is just me, but what I mean is this was the perfect little escape for me and a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Small town romance fans, this series is not to be missed!
This is the fourth book in the Sweetwater Springs series and this lives up to it’s name, it doesn’t get any sweeter than this! You can definitely read this on it’s own but after four books I’ve become really attached to the residents of this adorable town and really believe I’ve enjoyed this series as much as I have because I’ve read all of the books.
As much as I’ve liked every single book in this series this one was my absolute favorite so far. I say so far because I’m hoping Annie Rains keeps on writing these books for a long time. You know those books that truly provide an escape for you when you read them? The ones where you forget about anything troubling in your own life because you get so caught up in the story and you forget you’re not actually living in a picturesque little town with a hot firefighter as your next door neighbor? Ok, that last part is just me, but what I mean is this was the perfect little escape for me and a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Small town romance fans, this series is not to be missed!
May 2, 2020
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek
is a lovely story that does a fine job with one of my favorite tropes, that of friends-to-lovers. Luke Marini has become friends with his sexy new neighbor, Brenna McConnell. Brenna's sister has taken on a job as firefighter in Luke's station so they cross paths even more so than being neighbors. Now that her sister is an adult, as Brenna has had to raise her, Brenna is thinking about reapplying for college. Doing so means leaving her home in Blueberry Creek.
But considering the fact that Brenna is not too pleased with the dangerous job her sister, only eighteen years old, has taken on, Brenna now reconsiders leaving to go to college. Meanwhile Brenna and Luke have an undeniable attraction. This most certainly could get in the way if Brenna plans on leaving the place Luke calls home.
I found this story to be a sensitive one on so many levels. The relationship between sisters had to strike a delicate balance. Meanwhile, the romance took a nice turn and I was kept invested in the story because I was eager to see how Brenna would find a way to fulfill her dream about going back to school once she realized the depth of her feelings for Luke.
This book is the fourth book in the Sweetwater Springs series, and I have enjoyed each book. They are Christmas on Mistletoe Lane, Springtime at Hope Cottage and Snowfall on Cedar Trail, This delightful series continues with Sunshine on Silver Lake and Season of Joy, both set for release later this year.
Many thanks to Forever and NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
But considering the fact that Brenna is not too pleased with the dangerous job her sister, only eighteen years old, has taken on, Brenna now reconsiders leaving to go to college. Meanwhile Brenna and Luke have an undeniable attraction. This most certainly could get in the way if Brenna plans on leaving the place Luke calls home.
I found this story to be a sensitive one on so many levels. The relationship between sisters had to strike a delicate balance. Meanwhile, the romance took a nice turn and I was kept invested in the story because I was eager to see how Brenna would find a way to fulfill her dream about going back to school once she realized the depth of her feelings for Luke.
This book is the fourth book in the Sweetwater Springs series, and I have enjoyed each book. They are Christmas on Mistletoe Lane, Springtime at Hope Cottage and Snowfall on Cedar Trail, This delightful series continues with Sunshine on Silver Lake and Season of Joy, both set for release later this year.
Many thanks to Forever and NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 25, 2020
4 Sweet Stars!!
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek is the fourth installment of the Sweetwater Springs Series and it follows the story of Luke & Brenna. Ever since Brenna lost her parents in a tragic accident. Her life has been in limbo. She put her dreams on hold and stepped in to take care of her sister. Even though Brenna’s sister is old enough to fend for herself now, she’s not ready to let go and move on…When Luke moved to Sweetwater Springs, he had high hopes for his future and a new town where no one knew about his past. Everything was going to plan until Brenna decided to welcome him to the neighborhood. Luke’s not looking for romance or anything serious, but he can’t deny the pull he feels towards Brenna. Brenna & Luke seem to be headed down two different paths, but fate might have other plans in store for these two. Will Luke & Brenna take a chance on love? Will Brenna finally put her dreams first and move on? There’s only one way to find out…
Overall, I thought this book was a really sweet and entertaining read. I loved the characters and the story-line. I found the writing to be flawless and was easily captivated by Brenna and Luke’s story. I really liked the chemistry between Luke & Brenna. It had a nice slow burn to it. The will they/won’t they moments kept me coming back for more. Luke & Brenna both had incidents in their pasts that caused them pain and I liked how their situations never got them down, and made them stronger.
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek isn’t just a love story. It is a story of friendship and loss. A story of family and forgiveness. A story of moving on and not being afraid to take chances. It is a story that will suck you in from the very first page and I promise, you’ll have a hard time putting this one down. I absolutely loved getting lost in Brenna & Luke’s story and look forward to seeing where this series will go next.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.*
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek is the fourth installment of the Sweetwater Springs Series and it follows the story of Luke & Brenna. Ever since Brenna lost her parents in a tragic accident. Her life has been in limbo. She put her dreams on hold and stepped in to take care of her sister. Even though Brenna’s sister is old enough to fend for herself now, she’s not ready to let go and move on…When Luke moved to Sweetwater Springs, he had high hopes for his future and a new town where no one knew about his past. Everything was going to plan until Brenna decided to welcome him to the neighborhood. Luke’s not looking for romance or anything serious, but he can’t deny the pull he feels towards Brenna. Brenna & Luke seem to be headed down two different paths, but fate might have other plans in store for these two. Will Luke & Brenna take a chance on love? Will Brenna finally put her dreams first and move on? There’s only one way to find out…
Overall, I thought this book was a really sweet and entertaining read. I loved the characters and the story-line. I found the writing to be flawless and was easily captivated by Brenna and Luke’s story. I really liked the chemistry between Luke & Brenna. It had a nice slow burn to it. The will they/won’t they moments kept me coming back for more. Luke & Brenna both had incidents in their pasts that caused them pain and I liked how their situations never got them down, and made them stronger.
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek isn’t just a love story. It is a story of friendship and loss. A story of family and forgiveness. A story of moving on and not being afraid to take chances. It is a story that will suck you in from the very first page and I promise, you’ll have a hard time putting this one down. I absolutely loved getting lost in Brenna & Luke’s story and look forward to seeing where this series will go next.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.*
February 4, 2020
What can I say about this series, I have already not done so?
I love it. Simply put. This is the HEA I could share with my mama. No steam to speak of....just delightful characters living in this sweet little town.
I'm ready to head back to Sweetwater Springs. I hope Annie keeps bringing me back!
I love it. Simply put. This is the HEA I could share with my mama. No steam to speak of....just delightful characters living in this sweet little town.
I'm ready to head back to Sweetwater Springs. I hope Annie keeps bringing me back!
February 10, 2020
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: http://www.romancingthereaders.com/20...
I can't believe we are already on book #4. Where has the time gone? I think that happens with a series that you enjoy. They seem to be both flyings by yet seem to take forever for the next one to be out.
I've really enjoyed the Sweetwater Springs series so far. Each book gets better and better. Sharing more of the wonderful people in the town.
Up this time we have Luke and Brenna.
What can I say about Luke other than he is such a great guy! He's the type of person you want to know. Good to his neighbors (this might be funnier when you read the story) and those who are around him.
Shortly after coming to town he's thrown into the deep end and has to take on some responsivities he wasn't expecting and handled it perfectly. This is a man who doesn't let fear and worry hold him back. He does what he has to and gets the job done.
He's also a sweet guy who's lonely and needs friends. You'll love his friends and will want their stories soon.
Where Luke is easy going and has his life on a good track Breena is a mess. She's as tight as a spring. You can't help but feel sorry for all she's gone through. It hasn't been easy and she's done a fine job of taking care of all that needed taking care of which includes taking care of her sister Eve.
I have not read a more unlikeable character in all the time I've read. And I'm including killers. I would have buried the body behind the house. Okay, maybe I wouldn't have gone that far but the second she turned 18 she'd be on her own. The sad thing is the author gave her exactly what she wanted in life so hers is pretty good even though she treats people horrible and is very disrespectful.
If you can overlook Eve (which is hard) you'll love how Breena and Luke's romance beginnings. Their falling in love is so sweet and you want nothing but happiness for them. It takes a while for them to really figure out what they really wanted in life but when they do it works perfectly for them.
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ARC received for an honest review
I can't believe we are already on book #4. Where has the time gone? I think that happens with a series that you enjoy. They seem to be both flyings by yet seem to take forever for the next one to be out.
I've really enjoyed the Sweetwater Springs series so far. Each book gets better and better. Sharing more of the wonderful people in the town.
Up this time we have Luke and Brenna.
What can I say about Luke other than he is such a great guy! He's the type of person you want to know. Good to his neighbors (this might be funnier when you read the story) and those who are around him.
Shortly after coming to town he's thrown into the deep end and has to take on some responsivities he wasn't expecting and handled it perfectly. This is a man who doesn't let fear and worry hold him back. He does what he has to and gets the job done.
He's also a sweet guy who's lonely and needs friends. You'll love his friends and will want their stories soon.
Where Luke is easy going and has his life on a good track Breena is a mess. She's as tight as a spring. You can't help but feel sorry for all she's gone through. It hasn't been easy and she's done a fine job of taking care of all that needed taking care of which includes taking care of her sister Eve.
I have not read a more unlikeable character in all the time I've read. And I'm including killers. I would have buried the body behind the house. Okay, maybe I wouldn't have gone that far but the second she turned 18 she'd be on her own. The sad thing is the author gave her exactly what she wanted in life so hers is pretty good even though she treats people horrible and is very disrespectful.
If you can overlook Eve (which is hard) you'll love how Breena and Luke's romance beginnings. Their falling in love is so sweet and you want nothing but happiness for them. It takes a while for them to really figure out what they really wanted in life but when they do it works perfectly for them.
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ARC received for an honest review
March 4, 2020
I contributed this review to Really Into This
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Thank you Read Forever for my gifted review copy.
👏🏻
This is the fourth book in Annie’s Sweetwater Springs series & gosh, I just love it!
💗
I think fans of VIRGIN RIVER will really fall in love with this series! The small-town feel combined with the realistic & kind people will have you googling if you can actually move to Sweetwater Springs. The more books I read in this series, the more I love it!
🧳
You know if you’re reading Annie you get a memorable and sweet happy ever after. I just love that. Annie is the perfect author to read when you need an escape. This is one of my favorites of the series!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Thank you Read Forever for my gifted review copy.
👏🏻
This is the fourth book in Annie’s Sweetwater Springs series & gosh, I just love it!
💗
I think fans of VIRGIN RIVER will really fall in love with this series! The small-town feel combined with the realistic & kind people will have you googling if you can actually move to Sweetwater Springs. The more books I read in this series, the more I love it!
🧳
You know if you’re reading Annie you get a memorable and sweet happy ever after. I just love that. Annie is the perfect author to read when you need an escape. This is one of my favorites of the series!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
January 12, 2020
4.5 Sweet(water Springs) stars
Copy received via Netgalley from Forever for an honest review
I am saying it right now - I want to move to Sweetwater Springs and find a hottie living next door!
Brenna and Luke's story continues my love affair with this town ad the characters we have previously met and loved (you can read this as a standalone if you haven't started the series yet).
Brenna's life has been in limbo, and now it is time to move on - no matter how hard it is for her. Her hurt and heartbreak is palpable and leaps off the pages.
II just wanted to dive into the book and give her a big ol' hug.
Luke is all kinds of swoonworthy and I want one of my own.
I need many more stories set in Sweetwater Springs - so please make that happen Ms Rains!
Copy received via Netgalley from Forever for an honest review
I am saying it right now - I want to move to Sweetwater Springs and find a hottie living next door!
Brenna and Luke's story continues my love affair with this town ad the characters we have previously met and loved (you can read this as a standalone if you haven't started the series yet).
Brenna's life has been in limbo, and now it is time to move on - no matter how hard it is for her. Her hurt and heartbreak is palpable and leaps off the pages.
II just wanted to dive into the book and give her a big ol' hug.
Luke is all kinds of swoonworthy and I want one of my own.
I need many more stories set in Sweetwater Springs - so please make that happen Ms Rains!
February 11, 2020
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek just became my favorite story in the 'Sweetwater Springs' series. It has so much heart and these characters are so lovable. This is an enemies to lovers romance between a firefighter new to town and a local caterer who happens to be his neighbor.
Luke is new in town and has taken over as the new chief. He is level headed and keeps to himself. He notices his neighbor and has been trying to stay away but when she knocks on his door with baked treats he can't resist.
Brenna is a local caterer who is liked by everyone. Everyone in town who is a local knows how much she and her sister Eve have been through. Her parents died when she was a teenager so she had to grow up fast.
As soon as Luke and Brenna meet, there is an instant attraction that they try to fight. Both don't want to be in a relationship because they have been burned in the past. They don't get along at first but learn that their differences pull them closer together.
I am a huge fan of Annie Rains and was so excited to read another book in her 'Sweetwater Springs' series. I started reading Starting Over at Blueberry Creek and I was hooked. This story pulled at my heartstrings because both of the characters have been through so much in their past and have found a way to push through. Although they keep their past in the back burner, they haven't let go. And it's beautiful to see their journey and personal growth throughout the book.
I give Starting Over at Blueberry Creek 5 stars. It's a beautiful romance about two neighbors finding love even when they weren't looking for it. Annie Rains continues to dazzle with her delicate and charming writing and fans of her books will not be disappointed.
Luke is new in town and has taken over as the new chief. He is level headed and keeps to himself. He notices his neighbor and has been trying to stay away but when she knocks on his door with baked treats he can't resist.
Brenna is a local caterer who is liked by everyone. Everyone in town who is a local knows how much she and her sister Eve have been through. Her parents died when she was a teenager so she had to grow up fast.
As soon as Luke and Brenna meet, there is an instant attraction that they try to fight. Both don't want to be in a relationship because they have been burned in the past. They don't get along at first but learn that their differences pull them closer together.
I am a huge fan of Annie Rains and was so excited to read another book in her 'Sweetwater Springs' series. I started reading Starting Over at Blueberry Creek and I was hooked. This story pulled at my heartstrings because both of the characters have been through so much in their past and have found a way to push through. Although they keep their past in the back burner, they haven't let go. And it's beautiful to see their journey and personal growth throughout the book.
I give Starting Over at Blueberry Creek 5 stars. It's a beautiful romance about two neighbors finding love even when they weren't looking for it. Annie Rains continues to dazzle with her delicate and charming writing and fans of her books will not be disappointed.
October 4, 2019
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek, has continued to draw me into the amazing characters of this touching and heartfelt series. The fourth book in the Sweetwater Springs Series continues to bring the residents of this small picturesque town together in both friendship and love. Taste of Heaven owner Brenna McConnell had to give up a lot to come home and raise her younger sister, Eve, after the death of their parents. Inheriting not only a younger sister but also a catering business, Brenna had to let her dreams fall to the wayside. Now that Eve has reached eighteen, Brenna is looking to fulfill her hearts desire of becoming a teacher. But will things be easy for Brenna? Handsome Blueberry Creek neighbor and firefighter, Luke Marini has never been an overly friendly person but Brenna believes baking him a "welcome to the neighborhood" treat will open him up, but he is determined to stay to himself and not get involved with his neighbors. But will the beautiful Brenna change his mind? I found myself laughing a lot with this wonderful book but also a few tears were shed. Author Annie Rains has yet again, worked her magic and written an amazing story that will have the reader enthralled from the beginning! I cannot get enough of this wonderful series! I received this ARC and this is my honest review, in my own words!
February 25, 2020
Just pure delight! In this 4th book in my favorite series ever, Sweetwater Springs comes back to life! Luke and Brenna have both fought their own personal struggles and are at a turning point in their lives. The chemistry they share is undeniable but both have reservations about starting a relationship together. As they find themselves leaning on the beautiful friendship they have found it is now time for Brenna to start the life she put on hold. Sweetwater Springs has a way of holding on to all the good things and people there! Will Brenna move away from all this and start over? Or will she live happily ever after in the sweetest town dreams are made of? You’ll have to read to find out! I absolutely loved this book just like the 3 before it! I loved seeing the other characters pop in that I missed! Annie Rains knows exactly how to make you feel apart of this amazing place and I am counting the days till the next one in this heartwarming series! A must read book! I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are mine and mine alone.
March 12, 2020
Sometimes you just need to escape and relax, and thanks to Annie Rain's newest book I was able to just to that. Starting Over at Blueberry Creek is the 4th full length novel of her Sweetwater Springs series. I love getting the chance to travel back to this small town and seeing characters from the former books and especially meeting our newest leads. Breanna owns the local catering business that she inherited after her parents died. Luke is a firefighter who recently moved to Sweetwater Springs. They live next door to each other and after months of living there, Breanna finally goes over to introduce herself and bring Luke some baked goods to welcome him to the neighborhood. Their instant attraction is felt and after run-ins due to misdelievered mail and false fire alarms, they finally give in to that attraction. I really liked Luke and Breanna's relationship. They decided to not make it serious because Breanna had plans to go back to school out of town, so they just wanted to have fun... but of course those things don't always go as planned.
The conflicts they face felt real but not overwhelming. I really love when I can read a romance and know the overall conflict will be something that can be tied up neatly without a lot of drama. I think we all need that sometimes. Still, even though I know there will always be an HEA, Annie Rains still knows how to take me on a bit of a rollercoaster to get there. Her heroines are always smart, funny, and ambitious. And while they fall in love, they don't let that totally take them away from their dreams in life. It what makes me love this genre so much!
Bonus on this serious too is the adorable dog Max who belongs to Luke and is essentially an emotional support dog for the fire department. I love him very much and his own little backstory.
Hopefully you'll give this sweet book a chance, especially since it's the beginning of a new set of friends who will be finding their own love stories over her next few books. I can't wait to keep reading more stories from Sweetwater Springs!
Thanks to Forever Romance for sending me a free copy to review.
The conflicts they face felt real but not overwhelming. I really love when I can read a romance and know the overall conflict will be something that can be tied up neatly without a lot of drama. I think we all need that sometimes. Still, even though I know there will always be an HEA, Annie Rains still knows how to take me on a bit of a rollercoaster to get there. Her heroines are always smart, funny, and ambitious. And while they fall in love, they don't let that totally take them away from their dreams in life. It what makes me love this genre so much!
Bonus on this serious too is the adorable dog Max who belongs to Luke and is essentially an emotional support dog for the fire department. I love him very much and his own little backstory.
Hopefully you'll give this sweet book a chance, especially since it's the beginning of a new set of friends who will be finding their own love stories over her next few books. I can't wait to keep reading more stories from Sweetwater Springs!
Thanks to Forever Romance for sending me a free copy to review.
March 12, 2020
When her parent died, Brenna McConnell put her college dreams on hold to raise her sister. Now that her sibling is ready to start her career, Brenna is thinking again about her dream of becoming a teacher and selling her mom's bakery.
It's not that Luke Marini is anti-social. No matter how nice his neighbor is to bring him dessert or how good her pastries are, he just wants to be left alone. But his special Russel Terrier's presence, Max, is okay😛.
They acknowledge they feel a connection. But they both agree it would be a bad idea to give in to the attraction. So to avoid temptation, they're just gonna have to keep their distance. But they forgot they live in a small town and that sometimes fate play in the lovers's favor. And much to her discontent, he just hired her sister as a firefighter.
Brenna's sister infuriated me for most of the book (basically she acted like an ingrate brat) but it didn't took too much space that it ruined it for me and I think the way the author showed that side of their relationship and then the reconciliation felt real. I loved seing Luke at his work as a firefighter and all his thoughts and doubts. It's a slow burn romance between him and Brenna but pretty satisfying to read about anyway.
It's always a pleasure to be back in Sweetwater Spring and I'm so excited to see that the next two books feature Luke's friends!
It's not that Luke Marini is anti-social. No matter how nice his neighbor is to bring him dessert or how good her pastries are, he just wants to be left alone. But his special Russel Terrier's presence, Max, is okay😛.
They acknowledge they feel a connection. But they both agree it would be a bad idea to give in to the attraction. So to avoid temptation, they're just gonna have to keep their distance. But they forgot they live in a small town and that sometimes fate play in the lovers's favor. And much to her discontent, he just hired her sister as a firefighter.
Brenna's sister infuriated me for most of the book (basically she acted like an ingrate brat) but it didn't took too much space that it ruined it for me and I think the way the author showed that side of their relationship and then the reconciliation felt real. I loved seing Luke at his work as a firefighter and all his thoughts and doubts. It's a slow burn romance between him and Brenna but pretty satisfying to read about anyway.
It's always a pleasure to be back in Sweetwater Spring and I'm so excited to see that the next two books feature Luke's friends!
January 30, 2020
Starting Over At Blueberry Creek
Annie Rains
February 25, 2020
Brenna and Eve McConnel lost their parents to a horrible car accident when Brenna was starting her senior year of college. Eve was 13 years old, young and frightened. Brenna had two choices. One, to give guardianship to her mother’s sister Thelma, or come home to continue her parents catering business and raise Eve. She wanted to finish college and become a teacher but she knew in her heart that Eve needed her more than she needed to finish her dream, there was time for that once Eve took off for college in six years. Brenna continued on with the family business, running it successfully. As Eve entered high school Brenna tried to get Eve interested in helping out but Eve was not to be pushed into something she didn’t want to do. She felt that her business was not Brenna’s worry. She was old enough to take care of her own life, a theory that most high schoolers gave to their parents. Brenna however was not her parent, she was doing her best to help Eve despite missing out on her own dreams and discoveries.
Eve graduated high school and went on to graduate from the fire academy. She was bound to continue on in her father’s footsteps as he was a master firefighter. She spent many of her days off school at the firehouse learning from the best. In her later years of high school she volunteered for duty at the house and enjoyed every minute of it. Recently the firehouse had a new assistant chief, Luke Marini started in that position about 5 months prior to Eve’s applying for a non-existant position. The fire chief, was good and Luke felt he could carry on his career in Sweetwater Springs. He also bought a house in the country very near the McConnel home. Brenna had spent her morning off making donuts to take to him as ‘welcome to the neighborhood’ gift. She usually was quicker with the welcome but A Taste of Heaven, the catering business had been exceptionally busy for the past few months and she hadn’t had the time. She brushed the flour from her apron and tried to straighten her hair a bit as she walked over to Luke’s home. She found him in the backyard repairing a fence. Her appearance surprised him a bit. He had seen her on occasion and he couldn’t help but be attracted to the nice looking gal who lived next door. When she appeared with the donuts it was a welcome visit. He was about to head off to work. After tasting one, he decided the crew at work would also enjoy the treats she. The duo were a bit embarrassed by the attraction they felt but after Brenna left for home Luke carried on with getting ready, got into his truck and waved to her as he saw her outside of her front door dusting off her apron he could only smile as he waved and think, ‘what if’?
This wonderful love story of Brenna and Luke tells us the tale of the McConnell girls lives and that of the Marini boys who lost their home to a fire when they were young. Once again, I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Rains latest journey to Sweetwater Springs. Her characters are well thought out, charming and familiar. I really like her descriptions of the town of Sweetwater Springs and the little country areas like Blueberry Creek that surround it. Annie Rains latest book, Starting Over at Blueberry Creek will be published on February 25, 2020 by Hachette Book Group, Inc. I appreciate Forever, Hachette allowing me to read and review this selection from Ms. Rains. I enjoyed it from start to finish and imagine that her fans will as well. It is an easy book to pick up if readers have not been introduced to the Sweetwater Series before. I would also like to thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review selected new published works.
Annie Rains
February 25, 2020
Brenna and Eve McConnel lost their parents to a horrible car accident when Brenna was starting her senior year of college. Eve was 13 years old, young and frightened. Brenna had two choices. One, to give guardianship to her mother’s sister Thelma, or come home to continue her parents catering business and raise Eve. She wanted to finish college and become a teacher but she knew in her heart that Eve needed her more than she needed to finish her dream, there was time for that once Eve took off for college in six years. Brenna continued on with the family business, running it successfully. As Eve entered high school Brenna tried to get Eve interested in helping out but Eve was not to be pushed into something she didn’t want to do. She felt that her business was not Brenna’s worry. She was old enough to take care of her own life, a theory that most high schoolers gave to their parents. Brenna however was not her parent, she was doing her best to help Eve despite missing out on her own dreams and discoveries.
Eve graduated high school and went on to graduate from the fire academy. She was bound to continue on in her father’s footsteps as he was a master firefighter. She spent many of her days off school at the firehouse learning from the best. In her later years of high school she volunteered for duty at the house and enjoyed every minute of it. Recently the firehouse had a new assistant chief, Luke Marini started in that position about 5 months prior to Eve’s applying for a non-existant position. The fire chief, was good and Luke felt he could carry on his career in Sweetwater Springs. He also bought a house in the country very near the McConnel home. Brenna had spent her morning off making donuts to take to him as ‘welcome to the neighborhood’ gift. She usually was quicker with the welcome but A Taste of Heaven, the catering business had been exceptionally busy for the past few months and she hadn’t had the time. She brushed the flour from her apron and tried to straighten her hair a bit as she walked over to Luke’s home. She found him in the backyard repairing a fence. Her appearance surprised him a bit. He had seen her on occasion and he couldn’t help but be attracted to the nice looking gal who lived next door. When she appeared with the donuts it was a welcome visit. He was about to head off to work. After tasting one, he decided the crew at work would also enjoy the treats she. The duo were a bit embarrassed by the attraction they felt but after Brenna left for home Luke carried on with getting ready, got into his truck and waved to her as he saw her outside of her front door dusting off her apron he could only smile as he waved and think, ‘what if’?
This wonderful love story of Brenna and Luke tells us the tale of the McConnell girls lives and that of the Marini boys who lost their home to a fire when they were young. Once again, I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Rains latest journey to Sweetwater Springs. Her characters are well thought out, charming and familiar. I really like her descriptions of the town of Sweetwater Springs and the little country areas like Blueberry Creek that surround it. Annie Rains latest book, Starting Over at Blueberry Creek will be published on February 25, 2020 by Hachette Book Group, Inc. I appreciate Forever, Hachette allowing me to read and review this selection from Ms. Rains. I enjoyed it from start to finish and imagine that her fans will as well. It is an easy book to pick up if readers have not been introduced to the Sweetwater Series before. I would also like to thank NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review selected new published works.
February 24, 2020
I loved being back in Sweetwater Springs! I can never get enough of this small town and the romances within it! There were are couple more set ups in this novel, so I am looking forward to the future of the series.
Back to this book though! I thought that Brenna was a fantastic female lead for this story. She was capable of understand Luke, and his desire to be a firefighter. She was also not afraid to be vulnerable when it came down to the big things too. She owned up to her own mistakes, and always did everything she could to make it right.
Luke is just a great guy from the beginning. He is protective, but not "alpha male" about it. He really did everything he could to not only protect Brenna, but to protect everyone on his fire crew, and his friends and family also.
This "girl next door" kind of romance has you dealing with grief and loss of family members as well, so know that it is present in the novel. This book made me smile and laugh, while also having my heart ache.
Not a steamy novel at all. All sex scenes were fade to black, so if you are looking for a pure, Hallmark style romance, check out this series!
Back to this book though! I thought that Brenna was a fantastic female lead for this story. She was capable of understand Luke, and his desire to be a firefighter. She was also not afraid to be vulnerable when it came down to the big things too. She owned up to her own mistakes, and always did everything she could to make it right.
Luke is just a great guy from the beginning. He is protective, but not "alpha male" about it. He really did everything he could to not only protect Brenna, but to protect everyone on his fire crew, and his friends and family also.
This "girl next door" kind of romance has you dealing with grief and loss of family members as well, so know that it is present in the novel. This book made me smile and laugh, while also having my heart ache.
Not a steamy novel at all. All sex scenes were fade to black, so if you are looking for a pure, Hallmark style romance, check out this series!
March 4, 2020
Sarah contributed this review to Really Into This
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Thank you Read Forever for my gifted review copy.
👏🏻
This is the fourth book in Annie’s Sweetwater Springs series & gosh, I just love it!
💗
I think fans of VIRGIN RIVER will really fall in love with this series! The small-town feel combined with the realistic & kind people will have you googling if you can actually move to Sweetwater Springs. The more books I read in this series, the more I love it!
🧳
You know if you’re reading Annie you get a memorable and sweet happy ever after. I just love that. Annie is the perfect author to read when you need an escape. This is one of my favorites of the series!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
Check out all of our reviews at https://reallyintothis.com
Happy Reading, friends!
Thank you Read Forever for my gifted review copy.
👏🏻
This is the fourth book in Annie’s Sweetwater Springs series & gosh, I just love it!
💗
I think fans of VIRGIN RIVER will really fall in love with this series! The small-town feel combined with the realistic & kind people will have you googling if you can actually move to Sweetwater Springs. The more books I read in this series, the more I love it!
🧳
You know if you’re reading Annie you get a memorable and sweet happy ever after. I just love that. Annie is the perfect author to read when you need an escape. This is one of my favorites of the series!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
February 28, 2020
I enjoyed the characters Luke and Brenna they are delightful to read about. I thought was wonderful well written story. I truly enjoyed the storyline. This is a heartwarming, small town, and a entertaining romance.
I read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are of my own. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this story.
I read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are of my own. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this story.
February 13, 2020
I picked up Blueberry Creek after reading a trigger inducing thriller and it was the PERFECT recovery book. I just really enjoy the town of Sweetwater Springs and the overlapping characters from the previous books. It was so fun to see Nate and Chris again after reading Christmas on Mistletoe Lane. You can absolutely read this as a stand alone book, but it just enriches the story to have a previous relationship with supporting characters. The world that Annie is creating here is warm and comforting and while there are struggles in the story, the HEA is so rewarding. Starting Over at Blueberry Creek is a closed door love story perfect for fans of a cozy read on a relaxing day. Here's hoping for the Hallmark movie of this one.
February 9, 2020
Annie Rains has another charming success with this book. This book caught my interest from the start and held it until the end which to me is the sign of a good story. It's got romance, a sexy male firefighter, humor, and real emotions.. Don't miss this one..
January 27, 2020
A fun, lighter read set within the small town of Sweetwater Springs, where all the younger generation seem to be dropping like flies to a crazy little thing called love, whether they're ready or not lol.
The backgrounds for both Brenna and Luke had tragedies greatly impact their paths. Luke just knew he was going to be a fireman, but Brenna had some soul searching to grow through. There were a few intense, life-threatening scenes, but not really descriptive enough to cause a lot of angst for me.
Got to meet up with some of the characters in the earlier books, though this is a stand alone with Brenna and Luke being the mains with their own journey and very HEA. I really liked Luke's character, strong, honest and always thinking of others. His hot factor wasn't too shabby either, but his personality is what I found most compelling. Brenna was a bit too neurotic for me, always wanting to boss her sister, losing her cool with her and with Luke also, it just got a tad tiring, along with the mind speak also. I could've done with a few less details, but maybe because I've already read all the books in this series so far.
I loved the lines used, regarding Firefighters, their attitudes and all around comradery.
A great read for a pick me up feel good romance just to relax with!
The backgrounds for both Brenna and Luke had tragedies greatly impact their paths. Luke just knew he was going to be a fireman, but Brenna had some soul searching to grow through. There were a few intense, life-threatening scenes, but not really descriptive enough to cause a lot of angst for me.
Got to meet up with some of the characters in the earlier books, though this is a stand alone with Brenna and Luke being the mains with their own journey and very HEA. I really liked Luke's character, strong, honest and always thinking of others. His hot factor wasn't too shabby either, but his personality is what I found most compelling. Brenna was a bit too neurotic for me, always wanting to boss her sister, losing her cool with her and with Luke also, it just got a tad tiring, along with the mind speak also. I could've done with a few less details, but maybe because I've already read all the books in this series so far.
I loved the lines used, regarding Firefighters, their attitudes and all around comradery.
A great read for a pick me up feel good romance just to relax with!
February 4, 2020
You can not go wrong with this author.
Sisters, a hot firefighter neighbor, and a dog . Just with that sentence, it's a great read..lol
Every family has problems, and dreams..do you follow them???? It's up to you!!
I loved this series and can't wait for the next book!!
Sisters, a hot firefighter neighbor, and a dog . Just with that sentence, it's a great read..lol
Every family has problems, and dreams..do you follow them???? It's up to you!!
I loved this series and can't wait for the next book!!
February 1, 2020
Starting Over at Bluberry Creek by Annie Raines. You will love this book the story is set in Sweetwater Springs. Sweetwater Springs is a beautiful town. Get to know the characters Brenna McConnel owner of Taste of Heaven a catering business and Luke a fireman. Read the story you will love 💕 it.
February 25, 2020
I absolutely loved being able to go back and "live" in Sweetwater Springs while reading this book. Luke and Brenna were two flawed characters who you grew to love as they developed and found love both for themselves and finally for each other. I appreciated getting to revisit several characters from Sweetwater Springs that I knew and loved and to see updates on their lives and how they were doing. I wish Sweetwater Springs was a real place that I could go visit, and I so love reading the books in this series and getting to escape there in my mind! I hope that Annie Rains has many more Sweetwater Springs books headed our way in the future!
January 26, 2020
Starting over at Blueberry Creek is another story about the characters in Sweetwater Springs. You'll enjoy reading how they follow their dreams and find love. The sisters learn to loosen the strings and get back to being sisters again. With love you'll find a way to follow your dreams.
January 24, 2020
Next door neighbors fight an attraction that is powerful. The characters are believable and delightfully flawed. Pasts ripe with loss shape the two and their interactions. Brenna and Luke seem like people you know that you would love to spend time with and I did. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 30, 2020
I adore this small town and look forward to each book. Brenna and Luke definitely have some chemistry here! I enjoyed seeing how Brenna made peace with the fact that her Mother’s dream wasn’t her own and that it was ok to let go and follow her heart. I enjoyed seeing Brenna and her sisters relationship grow as they found themselves acting more like sisters. I did feel like there may have been something missing from Luke's backstory but I'm not sure if I just missed the explanation or what. Overall I enjoyed the story and recommend it for a heartwarming read!
February 25, 2020
3.75 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 25, 2020
Should they fan the flames or douse this fire before someone gets seriously burned?
Firefighter Luke Marini moved to the small town of Sweetwater Springs with the highest of hopes - new town, new job, and new neighbors who know nothing of his past. And that's just how he wants to keep it. But it's nearly impossible when the gorgeous brunette next door decides to be the neighborhood welcome wagon. She's sugar, spice, and everything nice - but getting close to someone again is playing with fire.
Brenna McConnell put college on hold to raise her little sister. Now that Eve is grown, Brenna is ready to leave Blueberry Creek and finish what she started. Moving on isn't easy, however, when her gruff new neighbor gives Eve a dangerous firefighting job. And yet, even as Brenna is telling him off for putting her sister in harm's way, she can't deny the sizzling chemistry between them. She put her dreams on hold once. Is she willing to make that sacrifice again for a chance at forever?
••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK is the fourth instalment in Annie Rains contemporary, adult SWEETWATER SPRINGS romance series. This is fire fighter Luke Marini, and twenty-eight year old, bakery owner Brenna McConnell’s story line. STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Luke and Brenna) STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK follows the building relationship between new neighbors fire fighter Luke Marini, and bakery owner Brenna McConnell. A workplace accident finds Luke Marini assigned the position of the new fire chief at the Sweet Springs Fire Department but with it also come the prospect of a new hire, his neighbor’s eighteen year old sister Eva, who is struggling with her place in the world. Brenna McConnell battles between head and heart since the death of her parents years before. Having to drop out of college to run her mother’s bakery while raising her younger sister Eva, Brenna finds herself facing an uphill battle when her sister wants to become a fire fighter like their father, and Brenna wants Eva to go back to school. As Brenna and Luke butt heads about Eva’s future, our leading couple give in to the desire they have been fighting since the first time they met. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Brenna and Luke, and the potential fall-out as Brenna continues to struggles with Eva’s career choice, and the danger it poses; and Brenna’s decision to go back to school to become a teacher, and selling the business her mother loved.
The relationship between Eva and Luke is one of immediate attraction but Luke keeps his distance in an effort to establish himself at the SSFD. Brenna believes Luke is a bit of a snob until she realizes that her new neighbour is struggling to find his place in town. The $ex scenes are all implied.
The secondary and supporting characters include Brenna’s younger sister Eva who like most teenagers, is constantly at odds with the people in charge. We are introduced to young fire fighter Ryan Johnson, who may or may not have an interest in Eva, as well as fire chief Brewer, who is considering his future retirement.
STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK is a sweet story of family, friendships, romance and love; of acceptance and perseverance. The premise is engaging; the romance is tender and playful; the characters are energetic and stubborn.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 25, 2020
Should they fan the flames or douse this fire before someone gets seriously burned?
Firefighter Luke Marini moved to the small town of Sweetwater Springs with the highest of hopes - new town, new job, and new neighbors who know nothing of his past. And that's just how he wants to keep it. But it's nearly impossible when the gorgeous brunette next door decides to be the neighborhood welcome wagon. She's sugar, spice, and everything nice - but getting close to someone again is playing with fire.
Brenna McConnell put college on hold to raise her little sister. Now that Eve is grown, Brenna is ready to leave Blueberry Creek and finish what she started. Moving on isn't easy, however, when her gruff new neighbor gives Eve a dangerous firefighting job. And yet, even as Brenna is telling him off for putting her sister in harm's way, she can't deny the sizzling chemistry between them. She put her dreams on hold once. Is she willing to make that sacrifice again for a chance at forever?
••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars--STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK is the fourth instalment in Annie Rains contemporary, adult SWEETWATER SPRINGS romance series. This is fire fighter Luke Marini, and twenty-eight year old, bakery owner Brenna McConnell’s story line. STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Luke and Brenna) STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK follows the building relationship between new neighbors fire fighter Luke Marini, and bakery owner Brenna McConnell. A workplace accident finds Luke Marini assigned the position of the new fire chief at the Sweet Springs Fire Department but with it also come the prospect of a new hire, his neighbor’s eighteen year old sister Eva, who is struggling with her place in the world. Brenna McConnell battles between head and heart since the death of her parents years before. Having to drop out of college to run her mother’s bakery while raising her younger sister Eva, Brenna finds herself facing an uphill battle when her sister wants to become a fire fighter like their father, and Brenna wants Eva to go back to school. As Brenna and Luke butt heads about Eva’s future, our leading couple give in to the desire they have been fighting since the first time they met. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Brenna and Luke, and the potential fall-out as Brenna continues to struggles with Eva’s career choice, and the danger it poses; and Brenna’s decision to go back to school to become a teacher, and selling the business her mother loved.
The relationship between Eva and Luke is one of immediate attraction but Luke keeps his distance in an effort to establish himself at the SSFD. Brenna believes Luke is a bit of a snob until she realizes that her new neighbour is struggling to find his place in town. The $ex scenes are all implied.
The secondary and supporting characters include Brenna’s younger sister Eva who like most teenagers, is constantly at odds with the people in charge. We are introduced to young fire fighter Ryan Johnson, who may or may not have an interest in Eva, as well as fire chief Brewer, who is considering his future retirement.
STARTING OVER AT BLUEBERRY CREEK is a sweet story of family, friendships, romance and love; of acceptance and perseverance. The premise is engaging; the romance is tender and playful; the characters are energetic and stubborn.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 5, 2020
[I received a physical copy for an honest review]
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek by Annie Rains is the 4th book in her Sweetwater Springs series. This can completely be read and enjoyed as a standalone. I myself assumed it was a first in the series until right this moment when I went to write my review lol now I want to go buy the first three because I really enjoyed Annie Rains writing.
This tells the story of firefighter Luke Marini and his new-ish next door neighbor Brenna McConnell. Luke had a bad experience dating a neighbor in the past, and he has no plans to ever do so again, so he tries to keep his distance for his beautiful neighbor. Brenna put her life on hold when her parents died in order to raise her sister and take over her moms catering business. She put her life on hold when her parents died in order to raise her sister and take over her mothers catering business. It's finally time for her to finish college and pursue her own dreams that means she has no need to start romance when she'll be leaving soon. When their paths keep crossing they can't deny their chemistry, and they build a friendship that eventually turns phsycial, but that they both wish could mean even more.
"You're one hard woman to resist, Brenna McConnell"
I enjoyed so much about this story. The main characters, Luke and Brenna, were both likeable. Both with impactful backstories. Luke's history especially broke my heart but it made me happy how close he was to his family. Brenna's was tough I couldn't imagine giving up everything to a raise a sibling and the difficulty of it came through the pages. I wanted to wring her younger sisters' neck half the time. I understood that Brenna was a bit over bearing, but she did it out of love and Eve was really immature and rude. I won't get started on my less than pleasant thoughts on Luke's coworker Ryan. On a brighter note, I loved all the other side character from Granger to Nate.
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek was a wonderful clean romance about family, going after your dreams, not missing out on love and happily ever afters.
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek by Annie Rains is the 4th book in her Sweetwater Springs series. This can completely be read and enjoyed as a standalone. I myself assumed it was a first in the series until right this moment when I went to write my review lol now I want to go buy the first three because I really enjoyed Annie Rains writing.
This tells the story of firefighter Luke Marini and his new-ish next door neighbor Brenna McConnell. Luke had a bad experience dating a neighbor in the past, and he has no plans to ever do so again, so he tries to keep his distance for his beautiful neighbor. Brenna put her life on hold when her parents died in order to raise her sister and take over her moms catering business. She put her life on hold when her parents died in order to raise her sister and take over her mothers catering business. It's finally time for her to finish college and pursue her own dreams that means she has no need to start romance when she'll be leaving soon. When their paths keep crossing they can't deny their chemistry, and they build a friendship that eventually turns phsycial, but that they both wish could mean even more.
"You're one hard woman to resist, Brenna McConnell"
I enjoyed so much about this story. The main characters, Luke and Brenna, were both likeable. Both with impactful backstories. Luke's history especially broke my heart but it made me happy how close he was to his family. Brenna's was tough I couldn't imagine giving up everything to a raise a sibling and the difficulty of it came through the pages. I wanted to wring her younger sisters' neck half the time. I understood that Brenna was a bit over bearing, but she did it out of love and Eve was really immature and rude. I won't get started on my less than pleasant thoughts on Luke's coworker Ryan. On a brighter note, I loved all the other side character from Granger to Nate.
Starting Over at Blueberry Creek was a wonderful clean romance about family, going after your dreams, not missing out on love and happily ever afters.
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