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The Barrel House #1
Bourbon Love Notes
In a split second, life can steal a last breath ... and derail all future plans.
While flying home after a phone call that left me heartbroken, a row to myself would have been ideal. Instead, I was unknowingly sitting shoulder to shoulder with a strikingly attractive single dad and ex-Marine. I could have pretended not to notice the man, but there was something familiar about him.
It didn’t take long before I pieced together where I knew him from or why he was back in my life.
With chaos holding me hostage, I wanted to hide but couldn’t avoid Brett Pearson, our old family friend, and my teenage crush, because he kindly offered to help out with my family’s business—The Barrel House.
Handling my father’s distillery would be a distraction from my brutal reality. Except, I never paid close attention to the art of making bourbon, unlike Brett, who was full of bourbon knowledge. He offered to teach me a thing or two, but all I could focus on was the way his lips moved when he spoke to me.
I needed to grieve, and my head was in the wrong place at the wrong time, but my heart was splitting at the seams.
Bourbon was spilled, drinks were shared, but could passion ignite from a dying last wish?
While flying home after a phone call that left me heartbroken, a row to myself would have been ideal. Instead, I was unknowingly sitting shoulder to shoulder with a strikingly attractive single dad and ex-Marine. I could have pretended not to notice the man, but there was something familiar about him.
It didn’t take long before I pieced together where I knew him from or why he was back in my life.
With chaos holding me hostage, I wanted to hide but couldn’t avoid Brett Pearson, our old family friend, and my teenage crush, because he kindly offered to help out with my family’s business—The Barrel House.
Handling my father’s distillery would be a distraction from my brutal reality. Except, I never paid close attention to the art of making bourbon, unlike Brett, who was full of bourbon knowledge. He offered to teach me a thing or two, but all I could focus on was the way his lips moved when he spoke to me.
I needed to grieve, and my head was in the wrong place at the wrong time, but my heart was splitting at the seams.
Bourbon was spilled, drinks were shared, but could passion ignite from a dying last wish?
325 pages, ebook
First published January 13, 2020
215 people are currently reading
1149 people want to read
About the author
Shari J. Ryan
64 books2,010 followersShari J. Ryan is a USA Today and International Bestselling Author of over 40 novels, with more than 700,000 copies sold and translations in 13 languages. She writes emotionally evocative WWII fiction inspired by true stories that have resonated with readers around the globe. Her work has earned Top 100, Top 10, and #1 chart rankings, as well as two Rone Awards.
As the granddaughter and great-granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, Shari brings a deeply personal connection to her work. Her stories are rooted in truth and remembrance, written to ensure history is never forgotten.
For Shari, writing is more than a passion; it is her way of expressing herself and connecting with others. She strives to share every emotion she experiences with each reader who picks up one of her books.
Shari holds a bachelor's degree from Johnson & Wales University and began her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer until 2012, when she discovered her true calling in novels.
Some of Shari’s bestselling books include The Nurse Behind the Gates, The Stolen Twins, The Bookseller of Dachau, The Doctor’s Daughter, and The Last Words Series—gripping stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
A lifelong Boston girl, Shari now lives in a small town in the suburbs with her adored husband and two incredible sons, who make her feel like the luckiest woman in the world.
As the granddaughter and great-granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, Shari brings a deeply personal connection to her work. Her stories are rooted in truth and remembrance, written to ensure history is never forgotten.
For Shari, writing is more than a passion; it is her way of expressing herself and connecting with others. She strives to share every emotion she experiences with each reader who picks up one of her books.
Shari holds a bachelor's degree from Johnson & Wales University and began her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer until 2012, when she discovered her true calling in novels.
Some of Shari’s bestselling books include The Nurse Behind the Gates, The Stolen Twins, The Bookseller of Dachau, The Doctor’s Daughter, and The Last Words Series—gripping stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
A lifelong Boston girl, Shari now lives in a small town in the suburbs with her adored husband and two incredible sons, who make her feel like the luckiest woman in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 159 reviews
February 27, 2020
Release Date: January 13, 2020
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
Contemporary Romance | Emotional
Bourbon Love Notes was an unexpected read for me. For one reason or another I figured it would be a plain old contemporary romance with heat and humor. I wasn’t expecting most of the book to turn me into an emotional wreck! Gosh this book broke my heart. You may think I’m saying this because something happens between the hero and heroine but that’s not it. It’s the family’s story that tore my heart in two. Shari J. Ryan certainly laid out grief on a platter here and I absolutely fell into it. I was a MESS. My heart broke, my chest ached, and the tears were shed! I’m saying this so that readers will know that this is not without emotion because it’s FILLED with it!
One of my favorite things about this novel is the ending. I have to say if an ending can turn me into mush and make me smile like crazy then it’s pretty good! That’s the case here although I do wish the first 60% gave me the same feelings. Unfortunately, the romance never really caught up with me until the end. It almost felt like a filler for a family drama rather than an actual romance novel. That’s not to say that there is no romance because there is, but it’s very slow (almost achingly slow).
With that being said, I may not have loved this book, but I sure appreciated it’s beauty. I’m also looking forward to Journey’s book which will be released next. I hope it’s a little lighter than this one!
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
Contemporary Romance | Emotional
Bourbon Love Notes was an unexpected read for me. For one reason or another I figured it would be a plain old contemporary romance with heat and humor. I wasn’t expecting most of the book to turn me into an emotional wreck! Gosh this book broke my heart. You may think I’m saying this because something happens between the hero and heroine but that’s not it. It’s the family’s story that tore my heart in two. Shari J. Ryan certainly laid out grief on a platter here and I absolutely fell into it. I was a MESS. My heart broke, my chest ached, and the tears were shed! I’m saying this so that readers will know that this is not without emotion because it’s FILLED with it!
One of my favorite things about this novel is the ending. I have to say if an ending can turn me into mush and make me smile like crazy then it’s pretty good! That’s the case here although I do wish the first 60% gave me the same feelings. Unfortunately, the romance never really caught up with me until the end. It almost felt like a filler for a family drama rather than an actual romance novel. That’s not to say that there is no romance because there is, but it’s very slow (almost achingly slow).
With that being said, I may not have loved this book, but I sure appreciated it’s beauty. I’m also looking forward to Journey’s book which will be released next. I hope it’s a little lighter than this one!
January 3, 2020
First of all, I think it bears pointing out that the blurb on this book, while beautifully written, just scratches the surface and only hints at what's in store for the reader. Its done in such a way, though, that an astute reader will pick up on the undercurrent and realize that this one goes deep. This is a phenomenal, emotional read that I highly recommend, but knowing that some topics are sensitive for some readers, it's only fair to share that while this book is about finding love, it's about finding love in the midst and aftermath of loss, grief and pain.
Had I found this book a year ago after losing my father, or this past April after nearly losing my husband, I would not have been able to make my way through it. I’m not usually an emotional person and rarely cry over a book, but I had tears in my eyes most of the way through this one.
Having said that, I saw every bit of the grief, pain and emotion that I had experienced through my own circumstances portrayed so accurately in this story, it’s as if the writer was looking deep into my soul and recording what she saw, right down to the paralyzing fear and the compulsive busyness in an effort to escape thoughts and feelings. It’s so superbly done and beautifully handled that all of those feelings welled back up to the surface, with my heart suspended in a bitter sweetness, then leaving me with a closure so effective that a calming peace and joyful gratitude are all that remained.
I can always, always count on a heart-rending, poignant journey when reading this lady's work. She has a way of infusing her heart and soul into her manuscript that reaches deep inside the reader and makes her books an all-consuming experience, rather than simply a ‘read’. I feel like my emotions have been pureed in a blender, but I’m left with characters who will live forever in my soul, a quiet fulfillment, and a sense that a part of me is transformed for having had this experience.
Melody and Brett's story is stunning and powerful, and the symbolism between the bourbon-making process and personal relationships is meaningful and memorable. This story is gut-wrenching and sorrowful, yet shares profound insights into loss and grief while offering wisdom on healing, celebrating life, and reclaiming happiness. Easily one of my top reads for this new year and worthy of far more than five stars, it’s impossible to read this consuming, emotional story without your heart being forever changed.
Had I found this book a year ago after losing my father, or this past April after nearly losing my husband, I would not have been able to make my way through it. I’m not usually an emotional person and rarely cry over a book, but I had tears in my eyes most of the way through this one.
Having said that, I saw every bit of the grief, pain and emotion that I had experienced through my own circumstances portrayed so accurately in this story, it’s as if the writer was looking deep into my soul and recording what she saw, right down to the paralyzing fear and the compulsive busyness in an effort to escape thoughts and feelings. It’s so superbly done and beautifully handled that all of those feelings welled back up to the surface, with my heart suspended in a bitter sweetness, then leaving me with a closure so effective that a calming peace and joyful gratitude are all that remained.
I can always, always count on a heart-rending, poignant journey when reading this lady's work. She has a way of infusing her heart and soul into her manuscript that reaches deep inside the reader and makes her books an all-consuming experience, rather than simply a ‘read’. I feel like my emotions have been pureed in a blender, but I’m left with characters who will live forever in my soul, a quiet fulfillment, and a sense that a part of me is transformed for having had this experience.
Melody and Brett's story is stunning and powerful, and the symbolism between the bourbon-making process and personal relationships is meaningful and memorable. This story is gut-wrenching and sorrowful, yet shares profound insights into loss and grief while offering wisdom on healing, celebrating life, and reclaiming happiness. Easily one of my top reads for this new year and worthy of far more than five stars, it’s impossible to read this consuming, emotional story without your heart being forever changed.
January 16, 2020
Holy moly!! This book took my emotions through the ringer and back. I couldn’t put it down and needed to know what happened next. Melody and Brett, they’re special. This entire book was special. I went from laughing to crying to smiling to just plain loving this book. The story, man the story will gut you but you’ll walk away satisfied and happy for Melody and what her family has gone through!
January 14, 2020
Melody's home after receiving news no daughter ever wants to hear. Imagine her surprise when she finds out the man she crushed on all through her growing up years is the man helping her dad run the family's bourbon business. Brett has long had feelings for Melody, but back when she declared her feelings, she was too young. She's not too young any longer, but the timing still isn't right. They can become friends, though. So that's what they do. Will their timing ever line up for something more?
Damn, I was not expecting the level of emotional upheaval this story would bring its characters. It was heartbreaking in places as Melody and her family dealt with their tragic circumstances. I love how Brett and Melody traversed their new relationship, as they opened up and let each other in, as they became friends, then finally more. And I loved Melody and Brett's family, they're as interesting as the leads. I'm not sure if their stories are coming, but if they are, I'll be the first to read them.
ARC via Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review.
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December 31, 2019
3.75 stars
Bourbon Love Notes has a strong case of blurb not matching the book. Going in, I expected Melody to be a bit spoiled and her to be butting heads with Brett on a regular basis. I was expecting a bit of enemies to lovers/work place romance. What Ms Ryan delivered (instead) was a fairly sweet book about a daughter saying goodbye and finding a way to honor the father she loved dearly while also reuniting with her teenage crush.
Told exclusively from Melody’s point of view, this is a well written book that takes a look at the choices we make, if they make us happy, and what the trade off for those choices could be. I had a bit of a hard time connecting with Melody at first, but I think a lot of that had to do with her emotional state and the natural chaos surrounding difficult news.
As we moved through the book, I found myself relating to her more. I appreciated seeing her lean on her mother and sister while also offering support to them both. The sense of family and friends radiated through the story and tugged at the heart strings.
Melody’s interaction/relationship with Brett was also sweet to see- once she settled down a bit and was open to get to knowing him again. I appreciated his gentle persistence in being a friend first.
I left the story feeling as if Melody’s story was complete, but definitely wondering about her sister Journey. I am also curious to see if Brett’s brother, Brody, has a story in the future.
*The blurb for Bourbon Love Notes was edited on/about December 30. This was after the writing of my review, but prior to the publication of the book. I am not editing my review, but did want to make a note because the new blurb matches the book much more closely.
Bourbon Love Notes has a strong case of blurb not matching the book. Going in, I expected Melody to be a bit spoiled and her to be butting heads with Brett on a regular basis. I was expecting a bit of enemies to lovers/work place romance. What Ms Ryan delivered (instead) was a fairly sweet book about a daughter saying goodbye and finding a way to honor the father she loved dearly while also reuniting with her teenage crush.
Told exclusively from Melody’s point of view, this is a well written book that takes a look at the choices we make, if they make us happy, and what the trade off for those choices could be. I had a bit of a hard time connecting with Melody at first, but I think a lot of that had to do with her emotional state and the natural chaos surrounding difficult news.
As we moved through the book, I found myself relating to her more. I appreciated seeing her lean on her mother and sister while also offering support to them both. The sense of family and friends radiated through the story and tugged at the heart strings.
Melody’s interaction/relationship with Brett was also sweet to see- once she settled down a bit and was open to get to knowing him again. I appreciated his gentle persistence in being a friend first.
I left the story feeling as if Melody’s story was complete, but definitely wondering about her sister Journey. I am also curious to see if Brett’s brother, Brody, has a story in the future.
*The blurb for Bourbon Love Notes was edited on/about December 30. This was after the writing of my review, but prior to the publication of the book. I am not editing my review, but did want to make a note because the new blurb matches the book much more closely.
December 16, 2020
In the first book, we get Melody and Brett's story. This series will take you back and forth to past and present to get you caught up on how the story blends into a beautiful contemporary story of love, brokenness, healing and finding the right person at the right time in your life.
Melody had a major crush on Brett when she was younger but life gets in the way and took a turn for their separate ways. Melody finally breaks up with her boyfriend and she is called home because her father is dying. Little did she know who she would run into when she returns. Brett is helping her father take care of their Bourbon Distillery. They receive the call that no child wants to hear and their lives are about to change. Will Melody help take over her father's legacy? Read to see...
The next book is Journey and Brody's story!
This book was a whole lot better than I thought it would be and couldn't wait to get to the next one to find out Journey's heartbreaking story.
Melody had a major crush on Brett when she was younger but life gets in the way and took a turn for their separate ways. Melody finally breaks up with her boyfriend and she is called home because her father is dying. Little did she know who she would run into when she returns. Brett is helping her father take care of their Bourbon Distillery. They receive the call that no child wants to hear and their lives are about to change. Will Melody help take over her father's legacy? Read to see...
The next book is Journey and Brody's story!
This book was a whole lot better than I thought it would be and couldn't wait to get to the next one to find out Journey's heartbreaking story.
January 12, 2020
HEART-WRENCHING yet BEAUTIFUL!
A Beautiful love story evolves around a world of grief all while the past becomes an important part of molding a future. This story is deep raw with an abundance of pain filled tears an occasional burst of humor to somewhat pull you out of the somber mood that plagued this grief stricken story as life came at full force for Melody and her family. Dealing and surviving a loss from cancer a dead end relationship and taking the steps to move on as the past steps in and becomes the unexpected steps of healing and moving forward. You definitely feel the force of pain in this read from cancer and the wounds of living through the loss of it all while a second chance from the past plays a major part with an uplifting turn of events. I enjoyed this story and gladly recommend it to others.
A Beautiful love story evolves around a world of grief all while the past becomes an important part of molding a future. This story is deep raw with an abundance of pain filled tears an occasional burst of humor to somewhat pull you out of the somber mood that plagued this grief stricken story as life came at full force for Melody and her family. Dealing and surviving a loss from cancer a dead end relationship and taking the steps to move on as the past steps in and becomes the unexpected steps of healing and moving forward. You definitely feel the force of pain in this read from cancer and the wounds of living through the loss of it all while a second chance from the past plays a major part with an uplifting turn of events. I enjoyed this story and gladly recommend it to others.
January 6, 2020
Well this book made me cry. And I read it in one sitting. I loved Melody and Brett. Now I just need a second book with Brody and Journey.
Want to read
July 15, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/15/2020)! 🎁
January 13, 2020
Wow! Just wow! I knew this story wasn’t going to be an easy read for me. I knew that Shari was gonna rip my heart out....and she did! But what an amazing story!! It’s real and raw. It’s heart felt and so, so emotional. The characters are amazing and the story literally flows from page to page, drawing you into this wonderful world of Brett and Melody. Such an amazing book to start the year! Loved it!!
January 11, 2020
Bourbon Love Notes - Another emotion-filled story from a talented storyteller. I absolutely love this book and took my time savoring it. Like Ms. Ryan's other books this one has multiple storylines that weave a living tapestry blending the ingredients of wonderful, realistic characters and believable, interesting dialogues well with a gamut of emotions and plenty of humor. There is always hope and love. Clean but with one sex scene that leaves plenty to the reader's imagination, almost innocent compared to the explicit trash too common today. The following reviews can be used to describe this book, too. I found this book on Booksprout. 5*
Which path if you had to decide…
A Heart of Time – Oh, my goodness! The depth of emotions that run the gamut in this well written story, along with the storylines make this a hard to put down read. I have not come across a book yet by this author that was not worth reading. The characters are wonderful and have realistic ways of dealing with the cards dealt them. This story is full of love, support and determination just to mention a few of the substance in this second chance story. The good storylines combined with a vivid imagination and descriptions weave a tapestry of love, sacrifices and second chances for several characters. There are sex scenes and some vulgar language, which I skipped or ignored. 5*
Last Words #1 – This is my first read by this author and I find this story is amazing. I’ve read many stories by the survivors of the Holocaust and this is one of the best. Well written but full of emotions and experiences that rip the heart out of a decent person. While the book isn’t as graphic about the horrors of Theresenstadt, there is plenty of the reader to grasp what everyone was going through in that terrible period of time. The four main characters are so loving, so decent, that what happened in the past wastes 75 years of a perfect love. Ms. Ryan has a gift for telling a story full of horror and pain, and yet, lets the light of love shining brightly through the decades. 5*
The Other Blue Sky #2 – This is the second of two books of the Surviving the Holocaust series. I highly recommend reading Last Words before reading Blue Sky. Blue will be more meaningful to know the previous generation’s story as well as Annie’s past before Blue. This well written, emotion filled sequel can be read without reading Words first but why? The storylines continue from Words but focus on Annie, although all the previous family characters are still a large part of this story, too. The emotions are still plentiful and range the gamut. Love is a major character, along with fear. While this book is filled with pain, there is so much love and light that shines through. The author does a wonderful job with her descriptions and the reader can see the locations and feel the emotions. There are smiles but there is plenty of pain and discoveries in Annie’s life. 5*
Shattered Stars – Interesting and intriguing, this is a story of overcoming the bad and living for the good. A horrible rape with a good outcome; a horrible illness with a corrected outcome; and a marriage made up of three wonderful people making the best of the worst. It is too easy to turn this review into a book report but there are so many good elements to this story with a large focus on living with a good attitude for life, not the negativity so common in these types of situations.
A young man with a heart the size of Texas filled with love and determination for a young teenaged mother and her daughter and a life with them. The young woman faces many problems from the age of sixteen, but with the support and love from her mother, good friends and her man, she succeeds against all odds.
The well written storylines alternate between her past and her present with plenty of emotions, drama and love so well described by the author as she unfolds a wonderful story full of good characters and a positive view of life. 4*
Which path if you had to decide…
A Heart of Time – Oh, my goodness! The depth of emotions that run the gamut in this well written story, along with the storylines make this a hard to put down read. I have not come across a book yet by this author that was not worth reading. The characters are wonderful and have realistic ways of dealing with the cards dealt them. This story is full of love, support and determination just to mention a few of the substance in this second chance story. The good storylines combined with a vivid imagination and descriptions weave a tapestry of love, sacrifices and second chances for several characters. There are sex scenes and some vulgar language, which I skipped or ignored. 5*
Last Words #1 – This is my first read by this author and I find this story is amazing. I’ve read many stories by the survivors of the Holocaust and this is one of the best. Well written but full of emotions and experiences that rip the heart out of a decent person. While the book isn’t as graphic about the horrors of Theresenstadt, there is plenty of the reader to grasp what everyone was going through in that terrible period of time. The four main characters are so loving, so decent, that what happened in the past wastes 75 years of a perfect love. Ms. Ryan has a gift for telling a story full of horror and pain, and yet, lets the light of love shining brightly through the decades. 5*
The Other Blue Sky #2 – This is the second of two books of the Surviving the Holocaust series. I highly recommend reading Last Words before reading Blue Sky. Blue will be more meaningful to know the previous generation’s story as well as Annie’s past before Blue. This well written, emotion filled sequel can be read without reading Words first but why? The storylines continue from Words but focus on Annie, although all the previous family characters are still a large part of this story, too. The emotions are still plentiful and range the gamut. Love is a major character, along with fear. While this book is filled with pain, there is so much love and light that shines through. The author does a wonderful job with her descriptions and the reader can see the locations and feel the emotions. There are smiles but there is plenty of pain and discoveries in Annie’s life. 5*
Shattered Stars – Interesting and intriguing, this is a story of overcoming the bad and living for the good. A horrible rape with a good outcome; a horrible illness with a corrected outcome; and a marriage made up of three wonderful people making the best of the worst. It is too easy to turn this review into a book report but there are so many good elements to this story with a large focus on living with a good attitude for life, not the negativity so common in these types of situations.
A young man with a heart the size of Texas filled with love and determination for a young teenaged mother and her daughter and a life with them. The young woman faces many problems from the age of sixteen, but with the support and love from her mother, good friends and her man, she succeeds against all odds.
The well written storylines alternate between her past and her present with plenty of emotions, drama and love so well described by the author as she unfolds a wonderful story full of good characters and a positive view of life. 4*
January 7, 2020
5 Cranky Stars
There was a moment in this book where I thought my heart wouldn’t recover. I was ugly crying in my chair, and I started thinking of all the when’s and what ifs of when my life will reach the point that Melody goes through in Bourbon Love Notes. While Cranky has reviewed Shari J Ryan in the past this is my first book by her, and I was pleasantly surprised. That synopsis doesn’t even begin to cover how your heart will feel. To watch a heart break and how that same heart can be repaired by someone who loves you endlessly. Bourbon Love Notes is about healing and love it’s about letting go of you picture perfect life you created in your head. We all look out the same window, but the view is different for each one.
Melody has always had a crush on Brett. He was the son of her father’s best friend and one tiny kiss sparked something in her that she never forgot. Fast forward to her life currently with the perfect boyfriend in the perfect house in the perfect little starter family neighborhood or so Melody thought. She’s been feeling restless for some time with Ace and when she receives news none of us are truly prepared for, she ends it and heads home. You see Melody’s dad’s illness has come back and she’s needed back home to spend time with him and help run his bourbon business among other things. Brett met a woman on a plane, and she seemed so familiar but just assumed she just had one of those faces. When he agreed to help with The Barrel House, he knew Mr. Quinn’s daughters were likely to show up. When he meets Melody, he realizes she was the girl on the plane and the girl who gave him the kiss that changed his life. What happens next is two people who are fated to be coming together to heal and fall in love.
Seriously this book broke my heart but repaired it in a way. I know death is inevitable. Just a time on a clock or calendar that arrives when we filled our purpose but darn this book kicked me in the heart. I did find myself at times slightly aggravated with Melody and her stubbornness and her perfect little view of life. I knew that when she finally stopped for five minutes the girl was going to break. We aren’t meant to be strong like that I’m sorry. I really liked Brett and how he didn’t push he was just a steadfast shoulder to cry on. Ace well he annoyed me like I know he had good intentions but come on man. You can’t treat a woman that way and not expect a blowup. I loved the Quinn family and the Pearson family as well. So yeah if you want a book with heart that will make you cry but mend it back after with the sweetest love then this is your book.
There was a moment in this book where I thought my heart wouldn’t recover. I was ugly crying in my chair, and I started thinking of all the when’s and what ifs of when my life will reach the point that Melody goes through in Bourbon Love Notes. While Cranky has reviewed Shari J Ryan in the past this is my first book by her, and I was pleasantly surprised. That synopsis doesn’t even begin to cover how your heart will feel. To watch a heart break and how that same heart can be repaired by someone who loves you endlessly. Bourbon Love Notes is about healing and love it’s about letting go of you picture perfect life you created in your head. We all look out the same window, but the view is different for each one.
Melody has always had a crush on Brett. He was the son of her father’s best friend and one tiny kiss sparked something in her that she never forgot. Fast forward to her life currently with the perfect boyfriend in the perfect house in the perfect little starter family neighborhood or so Melody thought. She’s been feeling restless for some time with Ace and when she receives news none of us are truly prepared for, she ends it and heads home. You see Melody’s dad’s illness has come back and she’s needed back home to spend time with him and help run his bourbon business among other things. Brett met a woman on a plane, and she seemed so familiar but just assumed she just had one of those faces. When he agreed to help with The Barrel House, he knew Mr. Quinn’s daughters were likely to show up. When he meets Melody, he realizes she was the girl on the plane and the girl who gave him the kiss that changed his life. What happens next is two people who are fated to be coming together to heal and fall in love.
Seriously this book broke my heart but repaired it in a way. I know death is inevitable. Just a time on a clock or calendar that arrives when we filled our purpose but darn this book kicked me in the heart. I did find myself at times slightly aggravated with Melody and her stubbornness and her perfect little view of life. I knew that when she finally stopped for five minutes the girl was going to break. We aren’t meant to be strong like that I’m sorry. I really liked Brett and how he didn’t push he was just a steadfast shoulder to cry on. Ace well he annoyed me like I know he had good intentions but come on man. You can’t treat a woman that way and not expect a blowup. I loved the Quinn family and the Pearson family as well. So yeah if you want a book with heart that will make you cry but mend it back after with the sweetest love then this is your book.
January 11, 2020
I love Shari's writing, and this book is no different. Whether it be a deep emotional story, a rom com, or a fun quick read, she always writes a fantastic story. Her writing draws you in from the first page. No matter the genre or the topic she writes about her writing always impresses me.
Bourbon Love Notes will make you cry, (fair warning now). The scenes between Melody, her family and he dad were really emotional and definitely brought tears to my eyes. Shari did a phenomenal job describing the feelings that someone goes through when they lose someone close to them.
Melody has always had a crush on Brett growing up, but when she finally worked up the courage to tell him, he was leaving for the Marines. Fast forward to the present day and Melody thinks she is living the perfect life with the perfect house, and boyfriend, but all she does is stare out the window at all the neighbors with their kids. She is not happy at all. She accidentally receives a letter in the mail that causes her to call home, and find out that her dad is sick again. She immediately packs to head home, and breaks up with her boyfriend.
Melody and Brett are now back in town. He moved back to help her dad with his business, and she is determined to take over the business and keep it in the family, even though she knows nothing about the bourbon making process. Will they finally find their way back to each other after all these years? Read this fantastic book to find out!!!
I loved Melody and Brett together. I loved their banter, and all their sweet moments. I wished that we could have gotten Brett's pov though. I liked how Brett never pushed her no matter how stubborn she was being. I really liked how the bourbon was included in the story.
I really hope that Journey and Brody get a book
I recommend everyone to read this book that wants a five star emotion packed read
I received an arc of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bourbon Love Notes will make you cry, (fair warning now). The scenes between Melody, her family and he dad were really emotional and definitely brought tears to my eyes. Shari did a phenomenal job describing the feelings that someone goes through when they lose someone close to them.
Melody has always had a crush on Brett growing up, but when she finally worked up the courage to tell him, he was leaving for the Marines. Fast forward to the present day and Melody thinks she is living the perfect life with the perfect house, and boyfriend, but all she does is stare out the window at all the neighbors with their kids. She is not happy at all. She accidentally receives a letter in the mail that causes her to call home, and find out that her dad is sick again. She immediately packs to head home, and breaks up with her boyfriend.
Melody and Brett are now back in town. He moved back to help her dad with his business, and she is determined to take over the business and keep it in the family, even though she knows nothing about the bourbon making process. Will they finally find their way back to each other after all these years? Read this fantastic book to find out!!!
I loved Melody and Brett together. I loved their banter, and all their sweet moments. I wished that we could have gotten Brett's pov though. I liked how Brett never pushed her no matter how stubborn she was being. I really liked how the bourbon was included in the story.
I really hope that Journey and Brody get a book
I recommend everyone to read this book that wants a five star emotion packed read
I received an arc of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2020
What a heartbreaking story! This book definitely hits more home for me than most readers, so the emotions were in full force while reading. Melody has had a massive crush on her father’s business associate’s son Brett for years, but as she grew up it became unrealistic and she moved on while still harboring those feelings. When her father’s cancer comes back and she rushes home, she has a chance encounter with Brett, and then finds out he’s returning home as well and working in her father’s business, the pair start to get to know each other as adults. In the midst of getting to know each other and figuring out if they could be something, Melody experiences heartbreak like no other, and while it has a lasting impact, we see Brett and their relationship help her to cope and go after what she wants in life. I really enjoyed this storyline and the author’s style of writing, and I’m interested to see if we get a story for Melody’s sister and/or Brett’s brother in the future!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
January 2, 2020
Emotional and often heavy, this romance shows that tragedy doesn’t have to mean the end of all life. As a fan of Shari J. Ryan’s romantic comedies, I was surprised by the heaviness of this book but not by the quality of the writing itself. It’s all well done and very realistic, which means that it’s an emotional gut punch, may trigger some readers, and our heroine is sometimes abrasive or difficult to connect to because of all that she’s going through. This is definitely for those who like an angsty, heavier read.
The story follows Melody, a woman whose long term relationship grew stagnant a few years ago. It isn’t until she finds out that her father is terminally ill that she decides to finally end things and move home. On the plane ride, she encounters a guy who seems vaguely familiar, though she doesn’t puzzle out who he is until she returns home. Brett was her childhood crush, an all-around good guy, and one of the only people to step up and help her family in their time of need. As Melody struggles with the impending loss of her father, she also slowly connects with Brett.
This is a whole new side of Ryan’s work for me, and while I appreciated the quality of the work, I also struggled with just how heavy a lot of it is. I would’ve liked a few more light moments early on in the book in order to connect with the characters - Melody is obviously not in the best frame of mind, and we don’t get Brett’s perspective on things, so that often made connecting difficult. If you go into this with the right expectations, it’s likely that you’ll enjoy the book a whole lot, just know it’s an emotional ride. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review of this angsty romance.
The story follows Melody, a woman whose long term relationship grew stagnant a few years ago. It isn’t until she finds out that her father is terminally ill that she decides to finally end things and move home. On the plane ride, she encounters a guy who seems vaguely familiar, though she doesn’t puzzle out who he is until she returns home. Brett was her childhood crush, an all-around good guy, and one of the only people to step up and help her family in their time of need. As Melody struggles with the impending loss of her father, she also slowly connects with Brett.
This is a whole new side of Ryan’s work for me, and while I appreciated the quality of the work, I also struggled with just how heavy a lot of it is. I would’ve liked a few more light moments early on in the book in order to connect with the characters - Melody is obviously not in the best frame of mind, and we don’t get Brett’s perspective on things, so that often made connecting difficult. If you go into this with the right expectations, it’s likely that you’ll enjoy the book a whole lot, just know it’s an emotional ride. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review of this angsty romance.
April 5, 2020
Bourbon Love Notes is a very emotional read! From beginning to end, it has you all caught up in your feelings. It's a tear-jerker, you can't help but weep for this wonderful family and everything they're going through. I cannot imagine losing my father, I would be absolutely devastated. Mel has so much going on and all these emotions swimming around her. Brett was just what she needed, and to find herself again. This is the kinda book that leaves you warm, like curling up in a chair with the sun coming in, or cuddled up with a warm blanket. Your heart feels it. I loved the characters. Journey and Brody intrigue you! Mel's dad melts your heart! The Bourbon is fascinating to learn bits about. The name of this book was completely perfect! I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2020
I feel like I read a different book than everyone else. Yes Melody came back home because her daddy was dying and that is the part I felt she was feeling and that would understandable to be heartbroken. However I didn't find that she was heartbroken due to her relationship with Ace, she stated a couple of times that she was fine with it, that she wasn't sad about it, she was more in love with the idea of being in love and that she wanted marriage and white picket fence. She ended up reconnecting with her teenage crush Brett. I didn't feel the crushing love that these two had but was happy that they reconnected and were able to get there happy ending.
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions..(booksprout)
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions..(booksprout)
January 5, 2020
4.5 Stars!
I loved Brett and Melody and their poignant, slow burn romance! Melody was in denial about her perfect life, not ready to face the truth. It took some unexpected and heartbreaking news that forces her to finally make the right decisions, and return home. Melody had never planned on taking over the family business, but when faced with the reality of letting it go, she is determined to fight for it. It is hard for her at first having Brett, a family friend and her school girl crush, helping her run their family Bourbon business. But Brett has a way of making her feel at ease, more confident and stronger. I loved how patient and kind Brett was with her. I did have some questions about the foundation of his feelings for Melody from their youth, and would have liked a bit more of his pov. But I did love how authentic the evolution of their relationship was, and I cheered for their HEA. I also loved the strong connection and bond they shared with their families, it made this story so sweet, heartwarming, but heartrending as well. Their bond and unconditional love gave them the strength to hope, heal, and keep moving forward. This is a wonderfully rich and moving story about love, loss, recovery and perseverance that completely captured my heart.
I loved Brett and Melody and their poignant, slow burn romance! Melody was in denial about her perfect life, not ready to face the truth. It took some unexpected and heartbreaking news that forces her to finally make the right decisions, and return home. Melody had never planned on taking over the family business, but when faced with the reality of letting it go, she is determined to fight for it. It is hard for her at first having Brett, a family friend and her school girl crush, helping her run their family Bourbon business. But Brett has a way of making her feel at ease, more confident and stronger. I loved how patient and kind Brett was with her. I did have some questions about the foundation of his feelings for Melody from their youth, and would have liked a bit more of his pov. But I did love how authentic the evolution of their relationship was, and I cheered for their HEA. I also loved the strong connection and bond they shared with their families, it made this story so sweet, heartwarming, but heartrending as well. Their bond and unconditional love gave them the strength to hope, heal, and keep moving forward. This is a wonderfully rich and moving story about love, loss, recovery and perseverance that completely captured my heart.
January 12, 2020
Brett and Melody’s story an emotional roller coaster journey from the beginning to end. This is a beautifully written story which is heart-wrenching, touching, emotional, and with loss, grief, healing, family, which all leads to a poignant love story. This talented author has done an amazing job in penning this tale and the way she has given her heard and soul into writing about such a sensitive topic and an in-depth plot which had me totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner. I highly recommend for all readers.
January 1, 2020
Bourbon Love Notes is so much more than a romance. Ryan truly bottles up every ounce of emotion possible and distributes it amongst the Quinn family for one unforgettable read.
Melody Quinn is coming home to face the possibility of losing her father. That alone creates such a turmoil of emotions within me. Her bond and love of her father had me completely swept away into this novel. However the love story between Melody and Brett connected all the cherished moments truly reeled me in until the very end. Melody and Brett's story was a sweet romance filled with heartache, growth and possibility. I think Ryan did a perfect job of filling the holes of not one, but broken hearts.
My only regret is that there wasn't more of a bond between Melody and Brett's daughter, Parker. I kept waiting for that moment when Melody's father's wisdom would penetrate into her love of Parker. Having faced the same losses, I think if Ryan had of pursued that story point more this book would have brought another wonderful layer of emotion connecting this family together, rather than the flashback of Brett's Afghanistan experiences.
With that being said, you'll still want your Kleenex. You'll feel your eyes burn more than once with this story. But that is what Ryan does best with her heart stirring romances. She moves you in a unique way unlike any other author in a way only she can. Which is exactly why, you need to read Bourbon Loves Notes, a story of how a forever love can live on forever through the right person.
Melody Quinn is coming home to face the possibility of losing her father. That alone creates such a turmoil of emotions within me. Her bond and love of her father had me completely swept away into this novel. However the love story between Melody and Brett connected all the cherished moments truly reeled me in until the very end. Melody and Brett's story was a sweet romance filled with heartache, growth and possibility. I think Ryan did a perfect job of filling the holes of not one, but broken hearts.
My only regret is that there wasn't more of a bond between Melody and Brett's daughter, Parker. I kept waiting for that moment when Melody's father's wisdom would penetrate into her love of Parker. Having faced the same losses, I think if Ryan had of pursued that story point more this book would have brought another wonderful layer of emotion connecting this family together, rather than the flashback of Brett's Afghanistan experiences.
With that being said, you'll still want your Kleenex. You'll feel your eyes burn more than once with this story. But that is what Ryan does best with her heart stirring romances. She moves you in a unique way unlike any other author in a way only she can. Which is exactly why, you need to read Bourbon Loves Notes, a story of how a forever love can live on forever through the right person.
January 10, 2020
Bourbon Love Notes is the bleeding of a soul. Ryan crams a whole lot of emotion inside of an ever evolving story. Brett and Melody are a robust combination of heartache and life that culminates with a second chance at finding love. From a teenage crush, to adult heartbreak, Melody slowly finds herself on the cusp of losing her heart. What begins with a heartwrenching goodbye lays the groundwork for a long overdue hello.
January 13, 2020
This was filled with so much feeling and emotion of loss grief and so real and I loved how it was written it was beautiful I couldn't get enough.
Melody and Brett were fantastic characters the support and caring and becoming friends was so nice to read. I just loved everything about it Brett was the most caring man and I'm glad Melody cared enough about herself to do the right thing for her. The ending was perfection, I didn't know what I was going into but wow it will capture every bit of your heart.
Melody and Brett were fantastic characters the support and caring and becoming friends was so nice to read. I just loved everything about it Brett was the most caring man and I'm glad Melody cared enough about herself to do the right thing for her. The ending was perfection, I didn't know what I was going into but wow it will capture every bit of your heart.
January 7, 2020
The list is endless of books that can make me smile, however not many books manage to make me cry. This book was able to do both in an amazing way. It takes a wonderfully talented writer to provoke such a reaction. Shari Ryan is a talent like I haven't seen in quite some time. Through the words sprawled out on the pages, I felt like I was right there...sharing in the grief and despair. Melody and Brett bring the reader on for a journey for the ages. The story also introduces a few characters that I hope the author follows up on in later books. But for now, I am going to go take my emotionally spent heart and grab a tissue. If you are looking for a book that will not only make you feel good, but take you on the ride of a lifetime....look no further.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2020
Brett and Melody's story was full of emotion, love and dealing with loss. Brett was an old family friend and willing to help Melody with her father's bourbon business. He also went after a relationship with her. Melody's pain and grief were so relatable and brought me to tears. This is a great read.
January 19, 2020
5 UNFORGETTABLE STARS!! You know those books that are UNFORGETTABLE and remember forever....This is that book!! Brett and Melody will touch every part of your heart with all the feels in their story. Shari J. Ryan writing is beautiful and captivating, you can not put her books down. You must read this book, grab it now.
January 25, 2020
This was a good read. Melody is coming home to spend time with her family now that her father doesn't have much time left. While here she runs into the attractive guy from the plane. Comes to find out she had a past with him. While dealing with the loss of her father she falls in love and in the end she gets her happy ending.
December 23, 2019
Bourbon.
American Whiskey.
When the Barrel House heiress, Melody Quinn, comes face-to-face with single-dad, Brett Pearson, she finds the ex-Marine strikingly attractive, yet all too familiar for her liking, and she can’t figure out why.
Wherever Melody goes, Brett is there, and after each encounter, she starts to remember where she knows him from. The problem is, she can’t get rid of him because he’s now working in The Barrel House, the one place that is supposed to be hers and hers alone.
Brett loves the art of making bourbon, and nothing pleases him more than watching a customer take their first sip. When he goes to work at The Barrel House, he should be pleased, except he’s forced to work with Melody, who doesn’t know neat from on the rocks, and doesn’t understand why there’s corn everywhere.
Bourbon is spilled, drinks are shared, and passion is reignited between these star-crossed lovers.
I loved every single page of this book! Brett and Melody's story was flawlessly written and heartfelt. Many emotions while reading their story, and it was absolutely a beautiful story. I highly recommend.
American Whiskey.
When the Barrel House heiress, Melody Quinn, comes face-to-face with single-dad, Brett Pearson, she finds the ex-Marine strikingly attractive, yet all too familiar for her liking, and she can’t figure out why.
Wherever Melody goes, Brett is there, and after each encounter, she starts to remember where she knows him from. The problem is, she can’t get rid of him because he’s now working in The Barrel House, the one place that is supposed to be hers and hers alone.
Brett loves the art of making bourbon, and nothing pleases him more than watching a customer take their first sip. When he goes to work at The Barrel House, he should be pleased, except he’s forced to work with Melody, who doesn’t know neat from on the rocks, and doesn’t understand why there’s corn everywhere.
Bourbon is spilled, drinks are shared, and passion is reignited between these star-crossed lovers.
I loved every single page of this book! Brett and Melody's story was flawlessly written and heartfelt. Many emotions while reading their story, and it was absolutely a beautiful story. I highly recommend.
January 18, 2020
Very good story. I laughed and there were tears throughout. I wish the last part wasn’t so rushed after the slow build, but a very sweet story that truly had me feeling all the emotions along with Melody.
January 13, 2020
Ummm... Can Brett Pearson be real? Please!?? *swoon*
Im so very in love with this story! Shari J. Ryan did an amazing job of taking this heart breaking story and adding in some light humor to break up the tears. She really has a way with words and pulls me into her stories. Bourbon Love Notes was no exception!
Shari does an amazing job of describing what one may go through during a very close loss, the feelings and emotions are so very spot on. The closeness and strength that Melody and her family share is incredible throughout this story.
I love the interactions between the main characters, Melody and Brett as well. Their story is quite a sweet escape in the wake of such devastation. Their light banter with one another was my favorite parts of the story. I often would laugh out loud at one of their interactions, shortly after wiping away tears and blowing my nose. It greatly helped balance the raw emotions that came through.
Shari J. Ryan is a favorite of mine, and Bourbon Love Notes was no exception. I'm hoping to get more of this one... maybe Melody's sister Journey's story!??
Im so very in love with this story! Shari J. Ryan did an amazing job of taking this heart breaking story and adding in some light humor to break up the tears. She really has a way with words and pulls me into her stories. Bourbon Love Notes was no exception!
Shari does an amazing job of describing what one may go through during a very close loss, the feelings and emotions are so very spot on. The closeness and strength that Melody and her family share is incredible throughout this story.
I love the interactions between the main characters, Melody and Brett as well. Their story is quite a sweet escape in the wake of such devastation. Their light banter with one another was my favorite parts of the story. I often would laugh out loud at one of their interactions, shortly after wiping away tears and blowing my nose. It greatly helped balance the raw emotions that came through.
Shari J. Ryan is a favorite of mine, and Bourbon Love Notes was no exception. I'm hoping to get more of this one... maybe Melody's sister Journey's story!??
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