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Blackberry Bay #1
More than Neighbors
From New York Times Bestselling author Shannon Stacey comes an emotionally powerful story of community, fresh starts, and secrets.
The only thing they have in common is a property line!
He’s trying to uncover his past.
She’s hoping for a brighter future.
Cam Maguire is in Blackberry Bay to unravel a family secret. Meredith Price has moved next door with her daughter. He’s unattached. She’s a widowed single mom. He’s owned by a cat. She’s definitely team canine. All these neighbors have in common is a property line. One they cross…over and over. And Cam thought he knew what he wanted—until his family’s secret changes everything.
From Harlequin Special Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.
The only thing they have in common is a property line!
He’s trying to uncover his past.
She’s hoping for a brighter future.
Cam Maguire is in Blackberry Bay to unravel a family secret. Meredith Price has moved next door with her daughter. He’s unattached. She’s a widowed single mom. He’s owned by a cat. She’s definitely team canine. All these neighbors have in common is a property line. One they cross…over and over. And Cam thought he knew what he wanted—until his family’s secret changes everything.
From Harlequin Special Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 22, 2020
69 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Stacey
145 books2,640 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her favorite activities are writing romance and really random tweets when she’s not riding her ATV. She loves mud, books, football & watching way too much TV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
June 22, 2020
Cam Maguire has a high-powered job in New York City, working for his father. He’s the only son in a long line of Maguires and is spending the summer in Blackberry Bay, New Hampshire, settling the estate of his recently deceased grandmother (there’s much more to that story). Meredith Price is the widowed mother of 6-year old Sophie who’s returning from San Diego to the hometown she left after high school. Her husband died two years ago and she’s decided to move closer to her parents and create a new life for herself. She buys the house next door to Cam’s grandmother’s whimsical cottage and his hammock becomes the link to the neighbors. What begins as a few casual encounters leads to something more.
Sometimes you just want a story that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside and I was hoping this would be it. Fortunately, my instincts were dead on because aside from Cam and Meredith, there’s a fur ball dog named Oscar, a cranky cat called Elinor and the precocious but adorable Sophie. There aren’t any big dramatic moments, just lots of heartwarming ones as two really nice people come together naturally through odd circumstances. Cam is grappling with family issues and Meredith is recreating herself after having lived one designed around her late husband.
It also doesn’t hurt that Cam has a wicked sense of humor, which works well with Sophie and the pets. I was left with all those good feelings I was searching for as Meredith not only slowly opens her bruised heart but reacquaints herself with old friends from high school. I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to returning to Blackberry Bay. 3.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Sometimes you just want a story that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside and I was hoping this would be it. Fortunately, my instincts were dead on because aside from Cam and Meredith, there’s a fur ball dog named Oscar, a cranky cat called Elinor and the precocious but adorable Sophie. There aren’t any big dramatic moments, just lots of heartwarming ones as two really nice people come together naturally through odd circumstances. Cam is grappling with family issues and Meredith is recreating herself after having lived one designed around her late husband.
It also doesn’t hurt that Cam has a wicked sense of humor, which works well with Sophie and the pets. I was left with all those good feelings I was searching for as Meredith not only slowly opens her bruised heart but reacquaints herself with old friends from high school. I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to returning to Blackberry Bay. 3.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 25, 2024
More than Neighbors by Shannon Stacey is the first book in the new contemporary romance Blackberry Bay series. This first book of the series features Cam Maguire and Meredith Price changing the point of view between them in a heartwarming, sweet romance.
Meredith grew up in Blackberry Bay but had moved across the country and gotten married to the love of her life. After several happy years together in which they had their daughter though Meredith lost her husband. Now after a couple years of mourning Meredith has decided that the best place for her and her daughter was the place she grew up and after having purchased a lakeside home she made the journey across country.
As soon as Meredith and her daughter arrive in the charming small town they come across their new neighbor, Cam Maguire. Cam has found himself pulled into the small town after the death of a grandmother he never knew he had. Quickly Cam and Meredith find themselves spending more and more time together as the sparks begin to fly between the couple.
More than Neighbors was such a lovely beginning to this new romance series bringing readers into the quaint little town of Blackberry Bay. The story took it’s time building a solid friendship before turning it into more and really reflected a more mature couple along the way. It was incredibly heartwarming to watch not only the lead couple falling into love but also pulling in Meredith’s daughter and even the pets of both characters to form a wonderful family. A great read from start to finish.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Meredith grew up in Blackberry Bay but had moved across the country and gotten married to the love of her life. After several happy years together in which they had their daughter though Meredith lost her husband. Now after a couple years of mourning Meredith has decided that the best place for her and her daughter was the place she grew up and after having purchased a lakeside home she made the journey across country.
As soon as Meredith and her daughter arrive in the charming small town they come across their new neighbor, Cam Maguire. Cam has found himself pulled into the small town after the death of a grandmother he never knew he had. Quickly Cam and Meredith find themselves spending more and more time together as the sparks begin to fly between the couple.
More than Neighbors was such a lovely beginning to this new romance series bringing readers into the quaint little town of Blackberry Bay. The story took it’s time building a solid friendship before turning it into more and really reflected a more mature couple along the way. It was incredibly heartwarming to watch not only the lead couple falling into love but also pulling in Meredith’s daughter and even the pets of both characters to form a wonderful family. A great read from start to finish.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
June 1, 2020
***ARC Provided by the Publisher***
Sometimes you just want a story you can enjoy. You want a little bit of escape. If you want reality, there's a whole bunch of it outside the window...and none of it is pretty, or simple.
Cam and Meredith are this story. They are fun, there is the simplicity of a small town romance, which are sometimes the best kind. And, there's not a lot of drama. Not to say the story is boring, it isn't at all...but it's easy, and it's smooth, and it's 2 people who have a connection and want to see where it goes.
I liked both of the characters, I liked the depth added to the story by both of their backgrounds and especially Cam's. I thought it not only was interesting but gave a reason to want to see what happened next that was more than just the romance.
Overall, I enjoyed and recommend this title.
Sometimes you just want a story you can enjoy. You want a little bit of escape. If you want reality, there's a whole bunch of it outside the window...and none of it is pretty, or simple.
Cam and Meredith are this story. They are fun, there is the simplicity of a small town romance, which are sometimes the best kind. And, there's not a lot of drama. Not to say the story is boring, it isn't at all...but it's easy, and it's smooth, and it's 2 people who have a connection and want to see where it goes.
I liked both of the characters, I liked the depth added to the story by both of their backgrounds and especially Cam's. I thought it not only was interesting but gave a reason to want to see what happened next that was more than just the romance.
Overall, I enjoyed and recommend this title.
June 22, 2020
Meredith and her daughter Sophie move to Blackberry Bay, NH, to make a new start after the tragic death of her husband two years prior. Although she grew up in the small town and her parents live near, she’s lived in California ever since she left for college. She quickly warms to their new home and enjoys reconnecting with old friends, although the handsome stranger living next door is a distraction.
Cam Maguire comes from a high-society family of movers and shakers, but he is disillusioned with his parents and his family work. He was adopted by his father after his mother had a brief fling while they were split up. He never knew his birth family, but his birth father’s mother bequeathed her cabin and its contents, along with her cat, to Cam. Now he’s lying to his parents – saying his summering with a girlfriend and her family while working remotely – and is exploring his roots.
More than Neighbors is a sweet romance. Meredith gets a second chance at love, and Cam learns about the family he never knew and what is truly important in his life. They both feel an immediate attraction to each other – something that startles Meredith as it’s the first time she’s felt any sexual heat since her husband passed. She’s reluctant to start anything because Cam’s only there for the summer, and Meredith has a daughter to consider. But after a while, and when her daughter is away, Meredith decides to go for it, and the pair start a summer fling. However, it feels like more because Cam spends a lot of time with Meredith and her daughter, as well as her parents. They are like a ready-made family.
Cam struggles with his identity and place in the world, giving the story a bit of grit and creating bumps along the way. “Michael Archambault might be his biological father, but he was a Maguire. And a Maguire wouldn’t protect an old pink cottage because a woman he’d never met had loved it.” (Loc 770, 33% Kindle) I like how he looks to find answers and more about his biological family through Caroline’s journals and home.
More than Neighbors gives readers a tender and fun, slow-burn, low-heat romance that still has all the feels. It’s about finding unexpected love and learning what is important in life. And that It’s never too late to find happiness.
My Rating: B, Liked It
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy received from Netgalley.
Cam Maguire comes from a high-society family of movers and shakers, but he is disillusioned with his parents and his family work. He was adopted by his father after his mother had a brief fling while they were split up. He never knew his birth family, but his birth father’s mother bequeathed her cabin and its contents, along with her cat, to Cam. Now he’s lying to his parents – saying his summering with a girlfriend and her family while working remotely – and is exploring his roots.
More than Neighbors is a sweet romance. Meredith gets a second chance at love, and Cam learns about the family he never knew and what is truly important in his life. They both feel an immediate attraction to each other – something that startles Meredith as it’s the first time she’s felt any sexual heat since her husband passed. She’s reluctant to start anything because Cam’s only there for the summer, and Meredith has a daughter to consider. But after a while, and when her daughter is away, Meredith decides to go for it, and the pair start a summer fling. However, it feels like more because Cam spends a lot of time with Meredith and her daughter, as well as her parents. They are like a ready-made family.
Cam struggles with his identity and place in the world, giving the story a bit of grit and creating bumps along the way. “Michael Archambault might be his biological father, but he was a Maguire. And a Maguire wouldn’t protect an old pink cottage because a woman he’d never met had loved it.” (Loc 770, 33% Kindle) I like how he looks to find answers and more about his biological family through Caroline’s journals and home.
More than Neighbors gives readers a tender and fun, slow-burn, low-heat romance that still has all the feels. It’s about finding unexpected love and learning what is important in life. And that It’s never too late to find happiness.
My Rating: B, Liked It
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy received from Netgalley.
May 26, 2020
Amazon | B&N | Google | IndieBound | Harlequin.com
Meredith's looking to start over with her daughter after having lost her husband a few years previous. Cam is in town because he inherited a cottage from his grandmother. Will these two neighbors who like to snark at each other find love with each other? Or does their fling's expiration date mean anything permanent is off the table?
I confess sweet (read, clean) romances are not usually my thing, but I ended up enjoying this one. Cam and Meredith are a couple of wonderful characters individually, and together are even better. Coupled with the small town backdrop, one adorable little girl and two furry friends, I found this a feelgood, lighthearted read.
ARC via Harlequin for an honest review.
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June 18, 2020
Meredith Price has bought a cottage by the water to start her new life with her daughter, after her husband's death. She starts clashing with the neighbor Cam Maguire and tells him she is putting up a fence. He is loud in the mornings, to early for her, and a cat that scares her dog.
He is living next door to what was his grandmother's house, who he never knew and is unraveling family secrets. Meredith's daughter takes to him right away and her parents have a gleam in their eyes when they meet Cam. Hoping that something will come about between the 2 of them.
Cam has taken a break from his family business,which they are wealthy, and he really is so different from his mom and dad.
I liked how these 2 bantered back and forth with each other and were sarcastic.
Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for the ARC to review.
He is living next door to what was his grandmother's house, who he never knew and is unraveling family secrets. Meredith's daughter takes to him right away and her parents have a gleam in their eyes when they meet Cam. Hoping that something will come about between the 2 of them.
Cam has taken a break from his family business,which they are wealthy, and he really is so different from his mom and dad.
I liked how these 2 bantered back and forth with each other and were sarcastic.
Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for the ARC to review.
June 19, 2020
After the death of her husband a few years ago, Meredith Price is ready to start a new life with her young daughter and their dog. She moves back to her hometown of Blackberry Bay, New Hampshire. She’s hoping the move will help bring her daughter out of her shell and make new friends.
Cam Maguire inherits the house next door. He doesn’t plan to stay very long. He’s only there for the summer, but when he discovers a dark family secret, his plans drastically change.
Meredith is not ready to start a new relationship with anyone at the moment. Her loss is still too deep, but she can’t help feeling a closeness to Cam. It doesn’t help that her daughter is totally enchanted with him. Meredith is sure this isn’t going to work out, especially since he has a cat and she has a dog. The signs are all there that they should just remain friends, but there’s something pulling them closer all the time.
This is the first book in a new series and I absolutely adored this book. It’s an emotionally charged, sweet romance with realistic characters. The author completely transported me into Meredith and Cam’s world.
The chemistry between Meredith and Cam is apparent from the start, even if they didn’t notice. Meredith’s six year old daughter completely won me over, especially her love of books. The romance moves at a steady pace - it’s not rushed and it’s not too slow. It builds throughout the book which makes it more realistic. Meredith and Cam actually talk to each other, which I sometimes find lacking in romance books.
The supporting cast of characters adds a nice dimension to the story which helps to bring Blueberry Bay alive. I know I felt like I was right there with Meredith and Cam.
More Than Neighbors is a warm, “feel good” book. I actually had tears in my eyes when I got to the last page. I hated leaving these characters. I’m so looking forward to more in this series.
This is the first book I read by Shannon Stacey and I’m already working to build up my collection of her backlist. She’s now a “must read” author for me after only reading one book. Anything that can make me smile is a true winner in my eyes.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Cam Maguire inherits the house next door. He doesn’t plan to stay very long. He’s only there for the summer, but when he discovers a dark family secret, his plans drastically change.
Meredith is not ready to start a new relationship with anyone at the moment. Her loss is still too deep, but she can’t help feeling a closeness to Cam. It doesn’t help that her daughter is totally enchanted with him. Meredith is sure this isn’t going to work out, especially since he has a cat and she has a dog. The signs are all there that they should just remain friends, but there’s something pulling them closer all the time.
This is the first book in a new series and I absolutely adored this book. It’s an emotionally charged, sweet romance with realistic characters. The author completely transported me into Meredith and Cam’s world.
The chemistry between Meredith and Cam is apparent from the start, even if they didn’t notice. Meredith’s six year old daughter completely won me over, especially her love of books. The romance moves at a steady pace - it’s not rushed and it’s not too slow. It builds throughout the book which makes it more realistic. Meredith and Cam actually talk to each other, which I sometimes find lacking in romance books.
The supporting cast of characters adds a nice dimension to the story which helps to bring Blueberry Bay alive. I know I felt like I was right there with Meredith and Cam.
More Than Neighbors is a warm, “feel good” book. I actually had tears in my eyes when I got to the last page. I hated leaving these characters. I’m so looking forward to more in this series.
This is the first book I read by Shannon Stacey and I’m already working to build up my collection of her backlist. She’s now a “must read” author for me after only reading one book. Anything that can make me smile is a true winner in my eyes.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 7, 2020
3.75 stars—MORE THAN NEIGHBORS is the first instalment in Shannon Stacey’s contemporary, adult BLACKBERRY BAY romance series. This is single mother/widow Meredith Price, and businessman Calvin ‘Cam’ Maguire’s story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Cam and Meredith) MORE THAN NEIGHBORS follows the acrimonious relationship between single mother/widow Meredith Price, and businessman Calvin ‘Cam’ Maguire’. Approximately two years earlier Meredith Price’s husband died leaving her a widow and single mother to four year old Sophie. With no reason to remain in California, Meredith packed their bags, and along with her daughter returned to her home town of Blackberry Bay, New Hampshire where she will come face to face with her new neighbor Cam Maguire. Meredith had no idea her neighbor Carolina had passed away leaving her estate to her grandson Cam Maguire but Cam is a stranger to Blackberry Bay, a stranger who is searching for his roots in his grandmother’s home. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Cam and Meredith, and the fall-out as Cam’s time in Blackberry Bay comes to a close.
Cam Maguire lives in New York, working for his father’s firm but struggles to find his place in the family. With the passing of his paternal grandmother, a woman Cam never knew, our hero found himself in Blackberry Bay searching for the truth about his family history. Meredith Price had hoped her move to Blackberry Bay came with the peace and solitude she was hoping to preserve but Meredith and Cam butted heads from the beginning, a friction that barely veiled a palpable sexual attraction that Meredith struggled to accept or ignore. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied.
We are introduced to Meredith’s daughter Sophie, a smart child who is immediately taken with Cam Maguire, as well as Meredith’s parents Neal and Erin Lane, her high school friend Reyna, Carolina’s friend Tess Weaver, and Cam’s parents Melissa and Calvin Maguire.
MORE THAN NEIGHBORS is a story of love, loss and second chances; a story of family, friendships, and moving forward. The premise is captivating; the romance is sweet and spicy; the characters are independent, colorful, and energetic.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual third person perspectives (Cam and Meredith) MORE THAN NEIGHBORS follows the acrimonious relationship between single mother/widow Meredith Price, and businessman Calvin ‘Cam’ Maguire’. Approximately two years earlier Meredith Price’s husband died leaving her a widow and single mother to four year old Sophie. With no reason to remain in California, Meredith packed their bags, and along with her daughter returned to her home town of Blackberry Bay, New Hampshire where she will come face to face with her new neighbor Cam Maguire. Meredith had no idea her neighbor Carolina had passed away leaving her estate to her grandson Cam Maguire but Cam is a stranger to Blackberry Bay, a stranger who is searching for his roots in his grandmother’s home. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Cam and Meredith, and the fall-out as Cam’s time in Blackberry Bay comes to a close.
Cam Maguire lives in New York, working for his father’s firm but struggles to find his place in the family. With the passing of his paternal grandmother, a woman Cam never knew, our hero found himself in Blackberry Bay searching for the truth about his family history. Meredith Price had hoped her move to Blackberry Bay came with the peace and solitude she was hoping to preserve but Meredith and Cam butted heads from the beginning, a friction that barely veiled a palpable sexual attraction that Meredith struggled to accept or ignore. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied.
We are introduced to Meredith’s daughter Sophie, a smart child who is immediately taken with Cam Maguire, as well as Meredith’s parents Neal and Erin Lane, her high school friend Reyna, Carolina’s friend Tess Weaver, and Cam’s parents Melissa and Calvin Maguire.
MORE THAN NEIGHBORS is a story of love, loss and second chances; a story of family, friendships, and moving forward. The premise is captivating; the romance is sweet and spicy; the characters are independent, colorful, and energetic.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
September 20, 2023
The September 2023 #TBRChallenge is "New Author." I don't have a lot of new-to-me authors on Mount TBR, which narrowed my choices considerably. Shannon Stacey's name is ubiquitous when it comes to contemporary romance, so when I spotted this miniseries on the Harlequin website a couple of years ago, I scooped it up.
Meredith Price has lost her husband, and has decided to return to her hometown of Blackberry Bay, New Hampshire with her six-year-old daughter Sophie to make a clean back from the past. She buys a lovely lakefront property, but doesn't count on the hunk next door stirring up long-dead feelings of lust.
Cam McGuire is in Blackberry Bay to learn more about his family. He's always known that he was the cuckoo in the next, but knew nothing about his biological paternal family. His grandmother left her estate to him in her will, and he's arrived to learn more about her and the father he never knew. He's inherited her ramshackle lakeside property and a cat named Elinor. He lied to his parents about his whereabouts and is determined to take this summer for himself - but doesn't count on the beautiful young widow who buys the neighboring house, or her adorably precocious child.
Meredith and Cam have a rather prickly start, but it doesn't take long for them to fall into a FWB situation. It's clear that Cam is only there for the summer, but I guess the sex is so good that they don't really care? They do take pains to hide their sexual relationship from Sophie; Meredith is cognizant of the fact that they are both growing attached to Cam and that it will be heartbreaking when he leaves...if he leaves.
This book was the definition of "fine." Not awful, not amazing, but perfectly serviceable. We're introduced to various small-town features and series-bait characters. There's the predictable third act separation and Grand Romantic Gesture, and an epilogue promising new babies.
I was, in a word, "whelmed."
Things that bothered me: it's obvious this writer is not a cat person, as she uses all the stereotypes of cats being aloof and standoffish (while the dog, of course, is friendly and wonderful). As someone who has always lived with and loves cats, this grates on the nerves.
I'm glad I finally had a chance to read Ms Stacey's work and find out what all the fuss was about, but I won't be rushing out to read more anytime soon.
Meredith Price has lost her husband, and has decided to return to her hometown of Blackberry Bay, New Hampshire with her six-year-old daughter Sophie to make a clean back from the past. She buys a lovely lakefront property, but doesn't count on the hunk next door stirring up long-dead feelings of lust.
Cam McGuire is in Blackberry Bay to learn more about his family. He's always known that he was the cuckoo in the next, but knew nothing about his biological paternal family. His grandmother left her estate to him in her will, and he's arrived to learn more about her and the father he never knew. He's inherited her ramshackle lakeside property and a cat named Elinor. He lied to his parents about his whereabouts and is determined to take this summer for himself - but doesn't count on the beautiful young widow who buys the neighboring house, or her adorably precocious child.
Meredith and Cam have a rather prickly start, but it doesn't take long for them to fall into a FWB situation. It's clear that Cam is only there for the summer, but I guess the sex is so good that they don't really care? They do take pains to hide their sexual relationship from Sophie; Meredith is cognizant of the fact that they are both growing attached to Cam and that it will be heartbreaking when he leaves...if he leaves.
This book was the definition of "fine." Not awful, not amazing, but perfectly serviceable. We're introduced to various small-town features and series-bait characters. There's the predictable third act separation and Grand Romantic Gesture, and an epilogue promising new babies.
I was, in a word, "whelmed."
Things that bothered me: it's obvious this writer is not a cat person, as she uses all the stereotypes of cats being aloof and standoffish (while the dog, of course, is friendly and wonderful). As someone who has always lived with and loves cats, this grates on the nerves.
I'm glad I finally had a chance to read Ms Stacey's work and find out what all the fuss was about, but I won't be rushing out to read more anytime soon.
June 28, 2020
Meredith Price lost her husband in a car accident two years ago. With her 6 yrs old daughter and their cute bichon, they're starting over in her hometown, in Blackberry Bay, New Hampshire.
Cam Maguire hasn't been in Blackberry Bay for a long time. He came to settle his biological grandmother's house. Unfortunately, Cam never got the chance to meet her before she passed away.
It's a beautiful friendship that form between Meredith and Cam when they learn they're going to be neighbors, even if it's temporary for him. Add to that an energic little girl, adorable and moody pets, a hammock and a lakefront town and you get the perfect elements to fall in love with this book.
"Maybe looking out over the water would soothe his nerves and help him refocus on the man he'd somehow become since arriving here.
A man with a cat. A man with a fun, sexy neighbor. A man who liked to play catch with Sophie and her yapping little dog. He was a man who sat on quilts in the grass and ate coton candy. He had a library card.
He liked this version of himself."
I felt in love with this universe, the characters and the fictional town of Blackberry Bay (can't wait to be back again!). I finished this book with a content sigh. Don't know how else to say that I adored this novel.
Cam Maguire hasn't been in Blackberry Bay for a long time. He came to settle his biological grandmother's house. Unfortunately, Cam never got the chance to meet her before she passed away.
It's a beautiful friendship that form between Meredith and Cam when they learn they're going to be neighbors, even if it's temporary for him. Add to that an energic little girl, adorable and moody pets, a hammock and a lakefront town and you get the perfect elements to fall in love with this book.
"Maybe looking out over the water would soothe his nerves and help him refocus on the man he'd somehow become since arriving here.
A man with a cat. A man with a fun, sexy neighbor. A man who liked to play catch with Sophie and her yapping little dog. He was a man who sat on quilts in the grass and ate coton candy. He had a library card.
He liked this version of himself."
I felt in love with this universe, the characters and the fictional town of Blackberry Bay (can't wait to be back again!). I finished this book with a content sigh. Don't know how else to say that I adored this novel.
November 20, 2020
3.5/5
This is a sweet romance where two single neighbors fall in love, a quick read. It's a little predictable, but I didn't mind that one bit. The way Meredith's 6-year-old daughter, Sophie, fell for Cam was sweet and believable, and I love that it created the proximity for he and Meredith to fall in love. I love the way this story worked out for Cam and Meredith, and I especially love that a large portion of the story revolves around the local library and its summer reading program. The more I read by Shannon Stacey, the more I want to go back and read her backlist. I'm excited to continue with the next installment of the Blackberry Bay series, featuring one of Meredith's friends from her high school days.
Thank you to Harlequin for the free review copy via NetGalley! These views are my own.
This is a sweet romance where two single neighbors fall in love, a quick read. It's a little predictable, but I didn't mind that one bit. The way Meredith's 6-year-old daughter, Sophie, fell for Cam was sweet and believable, and I love that it created the proximity for he and Meredith to fall in love. I love the way this story worked out for Cam and Meredith, and I especially love that a large portion of the story revolves around the local library and its summer reading program. The more I read by Shannon Stacey, the more I want to go back and read her backlist. I'm excited to continue with the next installment of the Blackberry Bay series, featuring one of Meredith's friends from her high school days.
Thank you to Harlequin for the free review copy via NetGalley! These views are my own.
July 19, 2020
good, I couldn’t get into it in the beginning because I was preoccupied, but the story premise was (I think) pretty original and I loved the feelings and the multi-dimensional characters!
November 4, 2020
3.25 stars
A nice, and quiet read.
A nice, and quiet read.
May 1, 2020
I absolutely loved everything about More than Neighbors and the town of Blackberry Bay. From the characters to the quaint little town, Shannon Stacey drew you into the lives of Meredith and Sophie from the first page. Meredith is a widow at the ripe old age of 30 and she's decided to move back to her hometown of Blackberry Bay. She grew up there but hadn't been back for years since she moved to California and married her college sweetheart. When he passed away, she wanted a new start for her and her six-year-old daughter Sophie.
Cam Maguire felt like he was living in a timewarp. On one hand, he was still working for his father, albeit remotely, for their corporation in New York. On the other hand, he was living in a cottage in Blackberry Bay that once belonged to his paternal grandmother. A grandmother he didn't know even existed. He's joined only by Elinor, his grandmother's finicky cat, in the small cottage by the bay and his summer of discovery stretches before him to remind him how lonely he truly is. Until Meredith arrives next door.
Cam and Meredith have sparks from the first time they meet and there's no denying it. Whether Sophie and her dog Oscar are swinging in his hammock reading books, or Cam is accompanying them to the library and for ice cream, the two of them can't seem to keep their eyes off each other. Meredith is torn by her desire to find someone new. She loves her husband, but at thirty, she knows she's too young to stay single forever. Cam is torn about how to be what Meredith and Sophie need when he doesn't even live in Blackberry Bay and there's no way he'd ask them to move to New York. He wonders if he'd be able to be the step-dad Sophie needs after losing her own father, a man she will always remember.
I loved the maturity of this romance, meaning I think the author did a nice job with keeping the overreacting to a minimum by making sure the characters communicated their needs and desires (For the most part. Sure there was conflict, but it wasn't over the top ridiculous).
The secondary cast of characters in this book leaves the door wide open for many more novels in the Blackberry Bay series and I can't wait to read Reyna's story. If you're looking for a new series to start that's full of laughter, love, and a wonderful town I'd love to live in, you definitely want to grab More than Neighbors by Shannon Stacey!
Cam Maguire felt like he was living in a timewarp. On one hand, he was still working for his father, albeit remotely, for their corporation in New York. On the other hand, he was living in a cottage in Blackberry Bay that once belonged to his paternal grandmother. A grandmother he didn't know even existed. He's joined only by Elinor, his grandmother's finicky cat, in the small cottage by the bay and his summer of discovery stretches before him to remind him how lonely he truly is. Until Meredith arrives next door.
Cam and Meredith have sparks from the first time they meet and there's no denying it. Whether Sophie and her dog Oscar are swinging in his hammock reading books, or Cam is accompanying them to the library and for ice cream, the two of them can't seem to keep their eyes off each other. Meredith is torn by her desire to find someone new. She loves her husband, but at thirty, she knows she's too young to stay single forever. Cam is torn about how to be what Meredith and Sophie need when he doesn't even live in Blackberry Bay and there's no way he'd ask them to move to New York. He wonders if he'd be able to be the step-dad Sophie needs after losing her own father, a man she will always remember.
I loved the maturity of this romance, meaning I think the author did a nice job with keeping the overreacting to a minimum by making sure the characters communicated their needs and desires (For the most part. Sure there was conflict, but it wasn't over the top ridiculous).
The secondary cast of characters in this book leaves the door wide open for many more novels in the Blackberry Bay series and I can't wait to read Reyna's story. If you're looking for a new series to start that's full of laughter, love, and a wonderful town I'd love to live in, you definitely want to grab More than Neighbors by Shannon Stacey!
October 29, 2021
I'm a bit baffled by all the fantastic reviews for this book. I guess it would be okay if you were looking for light and fluffy - sort of a Hallmark movie with a tiny bit of sex. But, as much as I enjoy fluff on occasion, this book just didn't work for me. It was just so bland! The characters were 2-dimensional, the storyline completely predictable, and I kept feeling like the author threw in a bunch of boring details just to hit her word count. The best part of the book was the cute little 6-year-old bookworm.
June 1, 2020
Meredith Price decided her best course of action was to return to her roots. So she purchased a home in Blackberry Bay, sold her home in California, packed up and started a cross-country journey with her daughter Sophie. Her husband died two years previously and the move to be closer to her parents was the right choice for her and Sophie. Fortunately her husband had left her well-off so Meredith was free to do as she pleased. What she hadn't expected when she and Sophie got to their new home was to be attracted to her nextdoor neighbor. They met over a cat meets dog dispute, his deceased grandmother's cat Elinor and Sophie's little Bichon Frise Oscar. Sophie was sure the two would become friends as she was sure Mr. Maguire, Cam would be her friend. Cam told Meredith he was just there for the summer so she knew she should ignore her attraction to him. Easier said than done.
To say Cam Maguire was surprised by the contents of the letter he received from the attorney in Blackberry Bay would not at all fit his feelings. He was shocked. His grandmother, Carolina Archambault, the grandmother he never knew he had, died and left him her cottage in Blackberry Bay. His life and his job in the lucrative family business was in New York City but he knew in his heart he had to go to Blackberry Bay to learn about her and the father he never knew. He decided to spend the summer there, working remotely, while he settled the estate. Carolina's journals, which he had discovered amongst the many things collected in the cottage, were a god sent window into his grandmother's life. He had only been in Blackberry Bay a couple of weeks when his new neighbor arrived. He never expected to fall for Meredith Price and her adorable daughter Sophie, but fall he did. He had to fight his feelings because he knew he had to go back to New York City at the end of summer. Could he ignore his feelings and go back?
More Than Neighbors by Stacey Shannon is the first book in her Blackberry Bay series. Shannon Stacey is a favorite author of mine so I was excited to read this story. Ms. Stacey has written a heartwarming story with charming characters and a storyline that had me anxious to see how Meredith and Cam could manage a Happily Ever After. I always enjoy stories with kids and pets. In this story Sophie is super cute. I loved how she tried to teacher her dog Oscar to read. I also loved how Cam, who never had a pet, found himself talking to his grandmother's stubborn cat Elinor a lot. This was a fun story to read and I look forward to more Blackberry Bay stories.
To say Cam Maguire was surprised by the contents of the letter he received from the attorney in Blackberry Bay would not at all fit his feelings. He was shocked. His grandmother, Carolina Archambault, the grandmother he never knew he had, died and left him her cottage in Blackberry Bay. His life and his job in the lucrative family business was in New York City but he knew in his heart he had to go to Blackberry Bay to learn about her and the father he never knew. He decided to spend the summer there, working remotely, while he settled the estate. Carolina's journals, which he had discovered amongst the many things collected in the cottage, were a god sent window into his grandmother's life. He had only been in Blackberry Bay a couple of weeks when his new neighbor arrived. He never expected to fall for Meredith Price and her adorable daughter Sophie, but fall he did. He had to fight his feelings because he knew he had to go back to New York City at the end of summer. Could he ignore his feelings and go back?
More Than Neighbors by Stacey Shannon is the first book in her Blackberry Bay series. Shannon Stacey is a favorite author of mine so I was excited to read this story. Ms. Stacey has written a heartwarming story with charming characters and a storyline that had me anxious to see how Meredith and Cam could manage a Happily Ever After. I always enjoy stories with kids and pets. In this story Sophie is super cute. I loved how she tried to teacher her dog Oscar to read. I also loved how Cam, who never had a pet, found himself talking to his grandmother's stubborn cat Elinor a lot. This was a fun story to read and I look forward to more Blackberry Bay stories.
June 1, 2020
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
I adored this story and was invested after just a couple chapters. Both Meredith and Cam have issues they have to get through and they don't always see eye to eye at the beginning, but the way Stacey writes the slow build of their relationship was just lovely. I really enjoyed the way she crafted her location of Blackberry Bay, and how that location was seen by each character and their perspective. Nothing about the relationship or story felt hurried and the internal struggles that each of them experiences were so relatable and authentic.
I can be picky sometimes when it comes to contemporary fiction, but I loved the setting and characters in this book and definitely look forward to reading further books in the series and seeing what happens with some of the secondary characters we were introduced to in this book.
I adored this story and was invested after just a couple chapters. Both Meredith and Cam have issues they have to get through and they don't always see eye to eye at the beginning, but the way Stacey writes the slow build of their relationship was just lovely. I really enjoyed the way she crafted her location of Blackberry Bay, and how that location was seen by each character and their perspective. Nothing about the relationship or story felt hurried and the internal struggles that each of them experiences were so relatable and authentic.
I can be picky sometimes when it comes to contemporary fiction, but I loved the setting and characters in this book and definitely look forward to reading further books in the series and seeing what happens with some of the secondary characters we were introduced to in this book.
December 31, 2020
I look at the cover and I just picture myself in the place of the models, reading this book. I knew before I opened the book how the story would go, but that didn’t prevent me from enjoying it. It’s not a complicated story, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It was a good book for its genre and I had a good time reading it. Cameron was the usual “too blind for his own good” hero but in the end, he made up for it. More than n eighbors is a sweet and easy book to read with a little bit of angst, an ideal book to read and relax.
June 17, 2020
Shannon Stacey launches her new Blackberry Bay, small-town series with the charming More than Neighbors. This is such an enjoyable story, set in a lakeside town that Stacey brings to vibrant life. Cam and Meredith are relatable, well-developed characters who captured my interest and pulled me into their lives. Both are dealing with life-altering events that Stacey explores with care while keeping the overall tone of the story upbeat. I enjoyed watching Meredith find a new place for herself in her hometown, reconnect with childhood friends, and form new, adult relationships. She's evolving out of the initial grief following her husband's death and testing the waters of opening her heart again to the possibilities of love. I appreciate the time Stacey gives her to accept the desire she feels for Cam without taking away from her love for her late husband. I'm a pushover for relationships that evolve from prickly neighbors to backyard cookouts to unlikely, enduring love. So sigh-worthy.
Raised by cold, distant parents, Cam's life revolves around business and not much else. His journey to discover his secret connection to Blackberry Bay, both poignant and heartfelt, introduces him to a different way of life, one to which he is, quite surprisingly, adapting. Some might even say, appreciating. I love how he keeps insisting Elinor, the cat he inherits from the grandmother he never knew, isn't his pet (she so is). Watching Cam open his heart to love, laughter, and new possibilities was pure pleasure.
Six-year-old Sophie is adorable, authentic, and important to the story. I delighted in the simple pleasures she introduces to Cam's life, like getting his first library card and learning how to lick an ice cream cone to keep it from dripping. She's a charmer and Cam (who has never been around children) falls as hard for Sophie as he does for her mom. Round out the story with a yappy dog, an imperious cat, a collection of interesting townsfolk (more books!), and a surprising twist near the end, and you have the makings of just the kind of summer read that makes my heart happy.
If you're looking for a heartwarming, feel-good romance, with snappy banter, sweet emotion, and a happy, hopeful vibe, add Shannon Stacey's More than Neighbors to your summer reading list.
*ARC received via NetGalley for an unbiased review
Raised by cold, distant parents, Cam's life revolves around business and not much else. His journey to discover his secret connection to Blackberry Bay, both poignant and heartfelt, introduces him to a different way of life, one to which he is, quite surprisingly, adapting. Some might even say, appreciating. I love how he keeps insisting Elinor, the cat he inherits from the grandmother he never knew, isn't his pet (she so is). Watching Cam open his heart to love, laughter, and new possibilities was pure pleasure.
Six-year-old Sophie is adorable, authentic, and important to the story. I delighted in the simple pleasures she introduces to Cam's life, like getting his first library card and learning how to lick an ice cream cone to keep it from dripping. She's a charmer and Cam (who has never been around children) falls as hard for Sophie as he does for her mom. Round out the story with a yappy dog, an imperious cat, a collection of interesting townsfolk (more books!), and a surprising twist near the end, and you have the makings of just the kind of summer read that makes my heart happy.
If you're looking for a heartwarming, feel-good romance, with snappy banter, sweet emotion, and a happy, hopeful vibe, add Shannon Stacey's More than Neighbors to your summer reading list.
*ARC received via NetGalley for an unbiased review
May 29, 2020
Meredith bought a new beach house, sight unseen. She's moving across the country with her young daughter, Sophie, and their dog Oscar to start fresh since losing Meredith's husband to a traffic accident four years earlier. The realtor told her their closest neighbor is an old woman who lives alone. Imagine their surprise when a man who isn't hard on the eyes is the first person they see at the house next door in quaint little Blackberry Bay.
Meredith does not remember knowing hot neighbor Cam's biological father or grandmother when she grew up in Blackberry Bay. Cam is officially known as the heir to the Maguire business interests in New York City. He's just in Blackberry Bay for the summer to wrap up the estate of the grandmother he never knew. She left it to him, after keeping her promise to her son to never contact Cam (at least while she was alive).
As I said, this was a pretty predictable book, but sometimes that's the right, feel-good thing for it to be. I'd give it 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it as a pleasant beach or travel read. I'd also be curious to see the later books in the series. Blackberry Bay is full of fun small-town characters, and I already have a guess who the next book will be about.
Meredith does not remember knowing hot neighbor Cam's biological father or grandmother when she grew up in Blackberry Bay. Cam is officially known as the heir to the Maguire business interests in New York City. He's just in Blackberry Bay for the summer to wrap up the estate of the grandmother he never knew. She left it to him, after keeping her promise to her son to never contact Cam (at least while she was alive).
As I said, this was a pretty predictable book, but sometimes that's the right, feel-good thing for it to be. I'd give it 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it as a pleasant beach or travel read. I'd also be curious to see the later books in the series. Blackberry Bay is full of fun small-town characters, and I already have a guess who the next book will be about.
June 20, 2020
Contemporary romance favorite Shannon Stacey makes her Harlequin Special Edition debut with More Than Neighbors, a charming, funny and poignant tale that is impossible to resist.
After her husband’s death in a tragic car accident two years ago, widowed Meredith Price’s heartbreak was further compounded when her bubbly daughter Sophie became even more withdrawn. Wanting her daughter to grow up close to her grandparents, Meredith made the decision to move to the small town of Blackberry Bay, where she hopes for a fresh start away from the devastating memories that have haunted her since her husband’s death. Meredith hopes that a move will help her to figure out what she is going to do next. Romance is certainly not on the cards for her – even if she has moved next door to a charming, funny and devastatingly attractive man, Cam Maguire.
Finding out that the grandmother he never knew left him her cottage in quaint Blackberry Bay has made Cam determined to find out more about a side of his family he never knew anything about. Cam hopes that by living in his grandmother’s cottage he can get close to uncovering the secrets of the past. He certainly never imagined that he would find himself attracted to his new neighbor and although he usually gives romance as wide a berth as possible, fate seems to be conspiring to push the two of them together again and again…
Cam and Meredith couldn’t be more different, but the more time the two of them spend in one another’s company, the more their feelings for one another intensify. Will they continue to allow their fears and past experiences to dictate their future? Or will an old family secret of Cam’s threaten to destroy any chance they might have of spending the rest of their lives together?
A witty, warm-hearted and emotional tale written with all the magic and charm which have become Shannon Stacey’s hallmarks, More Than Neighbors is a wonderful tale of healing, new beginnings and fresh starts that will make readers laugh and cry.
Cam and Meredith were two amazing characters it is impossible not to care about. Their love story is moving, dramatic, funny and one which will keep you engrossed from start to finish.
Shannon Stacey’s More Than Neighbors is a wonderful read and I cannot wait for further instalments in the Blackberry Bay series!
After her husband’s death in a tragic car accident two years ago, widowed Meredith Price’s heartbreak was further compounded when her bubbly daughter Sophie became even more withdrawn. Wanting her daughter to grow up close to her grandparents, Meredith made the decision to move to the small town of Blackberry Bay, where she hopes for a fresh start away from the devastating memories that have haunted her since her husband’s death. Meredith hopes that a move will help her to figure out what she is going to do next. Romance is certainly not on the cards for her – even if she has moved next door to a charming, funny and devastatingly attractive man, Cam Maguire.
Finding out that the grandmother he never knew left him her cottage in quaint Blackberry Bay has made Cam determined to find out more about a side of his family he never knew anything about. Cam hopes that by living in his grandmother’s cottage he can get close to uncovering the secrets of the past. He certainly never imagined that he would find himself attracted to his new neighbor and although he usually gives romance as wide a berth as possible, fate seems to be conspiring to push the two of them together again and again…
Cam and Meredith couldn’t be more different, but the more time the two of them spend in one another’s company, the more their feelings for one another intensify. Will they continue to allow their fears and past experiences to dictate their future? Or will an old family secret of Cam’s threaten to destroy any chance they might have of spending the rest of their lives together?
A witty, warm-hearted and emotional tale written with all the magic and charm which have become Shannon Stacey’s hallmarks, More Than Neighbors is a wonderful tale of healing, new beginnings and fresh starts that will make readers laugh and cry.
Cam and Meredith were two amazing characters it is impossible not to care about. Their love story is moving, dramatic, funny and one which will keep you engrossed from start to finish.
Shannon Stacey’s More Than Neighbors is a wonderful read and I cannot wait for further instalments in the Blackberry Bay series!
June 13, 2020
I totally enjoyed Cam and Meredith’s story in more More than Neighbors by the delightful Shannon Stacey, book one in her Blackberry Bay series. Cam Maguire is in Blackberry Bay to find out more about his past and the grandmother he never knew but who left him his cottage. Meredith Price returned to Blackberry Bay to be closer to her parents and get a new start on life for her and her daughter. It just so happened they share a property line being next door to each other. Cam is unattached and a workaholic by family standards. She’s a widowed single mom owned by a small dog. He’s been adopted by his grandmother’s cat. Meredith’s young daughter, Sophie, has found a friend in Cam and is always crossing over to his yard and his hammock. It’s the perfect place to cuddle up with her dog and read a good book. Though Meredith and Cam are totally different, almost opposites, the one thing they share besides the property line is a strong attraction. Cam thought he had all he ever wanted until Blackberry Bay convinced him he could have more.
There are a number of things in this story that stood out. Meredith’s love for Sophie along with her encouragement of reading and making new friends before school started. Her daughter’s affection for Cam was contagious. Cam’s lack of knowledge of his biological father and grandmother made him question who he was. Cam’s grandmother’s journals shed much light on her as a caring and loving person who was cheated of being a true grandmother and ever meeting Cam. The love shared between Cam, Meredith, and Sophie. Cam making critical decisions that affected not only him but also Meredith, Sophie, and the status of his cottage without input from the ladies.
Ms. Stacey wrote a wonderful, heartwarming story, filled with chemistry, life challenges, amusing banter, and charming characters that is definitely not to be missed. I highly recommend More than Neighbors to other readers and look forward to her next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
There are a number of things in this story that stood out. Meredith’s love for Sophie along with her encouragement of reading and making new friends before school started. Her daughter’s affection for Cam was contagious. Cam’s lack of knowledge of his biological father and grandmother made him question who he was. Cam’s grandmother’s journals shed much light on her as a caring and loving person who was cheated of being a true grandmother and ever meeting Cam. The love shared between Cam, Meredith, and Sophie. Cam making critical decisions that affected not only him but also Meredith, Sophie, and the status of his cottage without input from the ladies.
Ms. Stacey wrote a wonderful, heartwarming story, filled with chemistry, life challenges, amusing banter, and charming characters that is definitely not to be missed. I highly recommend More than Neighbors to other readers and look forward to her next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 2, 2020
I was so excited to see a new Shannon Stacey book available! I loved this tale of finding a new start in life.
Meredith has just moved back to her hometown of Blackberry Bay after losing her husband. Her life has changed dramatically since her husband passed away and Blackberry Bay can provide an easier lifestyle, old friends and family nearby for her young daughter. She's really not looking for a relationship, but when her new neighbor makes an appearance, he awakens thoughts of taking the next step in her new life with a fling.
Cam knows he's not going to be staying in Blackberry Bay. He's there to settle the estate of his grandmother, a grandmother he didn't know he had. This story is very touching and my heart felt a bit squishy for Cam (and even his mother) at times as the story of his unknown grandmother is revealed. And having the lovely Meredith and her daughter next door soothes him as he learns more about his background. There's some nice banter between Meredith and Cam early on in the story and a nice build-up to their budding relationship which I loved about this story. Nothing felt rushed, and I really liked Cam's journey of finding just where he wants to be.
I really enjoyed this story of resolving the past and moving forward. There are some really touching moments in the story, especially between Cam and Meredith as she deals with another step away from her old life. I adored the short but impactful scenes between Cam and his mother and Sophie and Elinor added some nice splashes of humor throughout.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It has Shannon Stacey's easy-going writing, two great love interests, and a very happy and heart-warming story. So much to love about More than Neighbors.
An ARC was provided. This is my honest review.
Meredith has just moved back to her hometown of Blackberry Bay after losing her husband. Her life has changed dramatically since her husband passed away and Blackberry Bay can provide an easier lifestyle, old friends and family nearby for her young daughter. She's really not looking for a relationship, but when her new neighbor makes an appearance, he awakens thoughts of taking the next step in her new life with a fling.
Cam knows he's not going to be staying in Blackberry Bay. He's there to settle the estate of his grandmother, a grandmother he didn't know he had. This story is very touching and my heart felt a bit squishy for Cam (and even his mother) at times as the story of his unknown grandmother is revealed. And having the lovely Meredith and her daughter next door soothes him as he learns more about his background. There's some nice banter between Meredith and Cam early on in the story and a nice build-up to their budding relationship which I loved about this story. Nothing felt rushed, and I really liked Cam's journey of finding just where he wants to be.
I really enjoyed this story of resolving the past and moving forward. There are some really touching moments in the story, especially between Cam and Meredith as she deals with another step away from her old life. I adored the short but impactful scenes between Cam and his mother and Sophie and Elinor added some nice splashes of humor throughout.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It has Shannon Stacey's easy-going writing, two great love interests, and a very happy and heart-warming story. So much to love about More than Neighbors.
An ARC was provided. This is my honest review.
September 21, 2022
4.5 stars I love animals in real life, but I tend not to read lots of animal stories in fiction. I’ve been burned too many times by sad endings, or in the other extreme, I’ve encountered way too many cutesy puppies and kittens. However, I knew I loved Shannon Stacey’s books, so More Than Neighbors seemed perfect for this month’s TBR prompt.
This book is a sweet, cozy romance with a definite opposites attract theme. Meredith is a widowed mom who has returned to her small New England hometown to rebuild her life. Cam considers himself very much a city guy, and he’s just in Blackberry Bay to get answers to questions about his past. Meredith and her daughter have a dog who’s very much a member of the family, while Cam has been adopted by his late grandmother’s stubborn cat.
The love story in this book develops gradually and it’s very sweet. In the beginning, Meredith and Cam are very believable as neighbors who seem to have little in common, but who have been thrown together by virtue of living in houses next door to one another. Children in romance can be tricky, but Meredith’s young daughter Sophie is a very believable and curious six-year-old who feels the need to take in interest in their neighbor’s cat and all the goings-on next door.
Sophie definitely functions as a conduit to bring Meredith and Cam together, but I liked that she comes off as authentic. She’s not overly adorable, and neither does she walk around making speeches that sound like they come from an adult or (worse yet) from an intrusive narrator. Sophie being a kid and Meredith being an attentive parent simply brings the two of them in frequent contact with their new neighbor and along the way, a rapport develops.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/tbr-chall...
This book is a sweet, cozy romance with a definite opposites attract theme. Meredith is a widowed mom who has returned to her small New England hometown to rebuild her life. Cam considers himself very much a city guy, and he’s just in Blackberry Bay to get answers to questions about his past. Meredith and her daughter have a dog who’s very much a member of the family, while Cam has been adopted by his late grandmother’s stubborn cat.
The love story in this book develops gradually and it’s very sweet. In the beginning, Meredith and Cam are very believable as neighbors who seem to have little in common, but who have been thrown together by virtue of living in houses next door to one another. Children in romance can be tricky, but Meredith’s young daughter Sophie is a very believable and curious six-year-old who feels the need to take in interest in their neighbor’s cat and all the goings-on next door.
Sophie definitely functions as a conduit to bring Meredith and Cam together, but I liked that she comes off as authentic. She’s not overly adorable, and neither does she walk around making speeches that sound like they come from an adult or (worse yet) from an intrusive narrator. Sophie being a kid and Meredith being an attentive parent simply brings the two of them in frequent contact with their new neighbor and along the way, a rapport develops.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/tbr-chall...
February 1, 2024
In the last year or so I've gone back to reading harlequin books. I moved away from them when my favorite authors did too. Now I'm back and I'm finding a few new authors and other authors that I enjoy are writing them.
Shannon Stacey is one of those authors. More Than Neighbors is the first in the Blackberry Bay series and it's a wonderful start to this series. I loved this story and the characters that come with it. Both Cam and Meredith are such likable characters.
Cam has a great sense of humor and Meredith gets him. You really feel for what Cam is going through in the story He never met his dad or grandmother and here he is cleaning out her place to sell it but he's keeping that information to himself. I think he's using his time at his grandmother's place to learn more about himself and the people he comes from. You can help but feel for him. Lucky for him he has wonderful neighbors to help him get through it all.
Meredith came back home after the death of her husband. She wants a happy safe place to raise her daughter and for them to heal after losing their husband/father. I think due to their loss they are great for Cam. He needs them in his life to feel...something, anything. I really enjoyed this story and it's a sweet read.
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June 17, 2020
4 summertime, sunshine, and romance stars!!!
This was such a super sweet hometown romance. I can’t remember if I have ever read something by Shannon Stacey before but I will definitely be continuing on with this series. There was no major lack of communication between the main characters and the side characters were developed enough that I can’t wait to get into their books too.
Meredith is trying to get some sort of peace and normal home life for her and her daughter so she came home to Blackberry Bay. Meredith is obviously a strong character having gone what she has at such a young age and raising a daughter alone. She falls into one of the obvious mom traps of not doing something for herself. I love that this book takes place over a whole summer and not just weeks and the relationship with Cam is slow and steady. She doesn’t just leap in, she considers it all because its not just her heart that would be breaking but her daughters as well. I liked how Shannon Stacey didn’t make her husband out to be evil in anyway either she left it up to Meredith to have two different kinds of great loves in her life.
Cam was complicated but in a people actually have this sort of problem in their lives. He came to Blackberry Bay to find out more about his “family” than to make friends. However with an insistent little girl next door, and a very grumpy cat how can he resist the charms of the bay. I enjoyed him going back through times while reading his grandmothers journals. I think him learning about his blood family is making him evolve into a whole new man, or maybe it’s the bay. I really enjoyed all of his interactions in the bay with everyone. I’m not sure I would’ve enjoyed the corporate Cam as much.
This was such a super sweet hometown romance. I can’t remember if I have ever read something by Shannon Stacey before but I will definitely be continuing on with this series. There was no major lack of communication between the main characters and the side characters were developed enough that I can’t wait to get into their books too.
Meredith is trying to get some sort of peace and normal home life for her and her daughter so she came home to Blackberry Bay. Meredith is obviously a strong character having gone what she has at such a young age and raising a daughter alone. She falls into one of the obvious mom traps of not doing something for herself. I love that this book takes place over a whole summer and not just weeks and the relationship with Cam is slow and steady. She doesn’t just leap in, she considers it all because its not just her heart that would be breaking but her daughters as well. I liked how Shannon Stacey didn’t make her husband out to be evil in anyway either she left it up to Meredith to have two different kinds of great loves in her life.
Cam was complicated but in a people actually have this sort of problem in their lives. He came to Blackberry Bay to find out more about his “family” than to make friends. However with an insistent little girl next door, and a very grumpy cat how can he resist the charms of the bay. I enjoyed him going back through times while reading his grandmothers journals. I think him learning about his blood family is making him evolve into a whole new man, or maybe it’s the bay. I really enjoyed all of his interactions in the bay with everyone. I’m not sure I would’ve enjoyed the corporate Cam as much.
June 14, 2020
I’m a huge fan of Shannon Stacey and she has been an auto-buy author for me since I read Exclusively Yours. I was super excited to read Ms. Stacey’s first Special Edition, and really enjoyed More Than Neighbors.
Meredith Price has moved back to Blackberry Bay with her daughter Sophie to be closer to her parents following her husband’s death. Cam Maguire has come to Blackberry Bay for the summer to learn about the biological grandmother he never met following her death and Meredith and Sophie are his new neighbors. I cracked up that Meredith and Cam didn’t hit it off initially, even though they seemed to be attracted to one another from the first. I loved Meredith’s mom kept pushing them together and even Sophie seemed to want Cam to be with them as much as possible from the moment they met.
More Than Neighbors had a bit of a slow-burn that absolutely worked for me, especially as Meredith hadn’t really dated since her husband passed away, and Cam is only in town for the summer. Neither Cam nor Meredith rushed into a relationship or even a fling, yet they seemed to end up together quite a bit. I loved that while they got off to a bit of a rough start, Meredith and Cam really stepped up to help each other out when needed. Their chemistry grew the more they were around one another and I fell for them as a couple after their very first kiss.
More Than Neighbors is the perfect read for fans of heart-felt contemporary romances. Shannon Stacey writes the best small-town romances, and I can’t wait to visit Blackberry Bay again soon.
Rating: 4 Stars (B)
Review copy provided by publisher
Meredith Price has moved back to Blackberry Bay with her daughter Sophie to be closer to her parents following her husband’s death. Cam Maguire has come to Blackberry Bay for the summer to learn about the biological grandmother he never met following her death and Meredith and Sophie are his new neighbors. I cracked up that Meredith and Cam didn’t hit it off initially, even though they seemed to be attracted to one another from the first. I loved Meredith’s mom kept pushing them together and even Sophie seemed to want Cam to be with them as much as possible from the moment they met.
More Than Neighbors had a bit of a slow-burn that absolutely worked for me, especially as Meredith hadn’t really dated since her husband passed away, and Cam is only in town for the summer. Neither Cam nor Meredith rushed into a relationship or even a fling, yet they seemed to end up together quite a bit. I loved that while they got off to a bit of a rough start, Meredith and Cam really stepped up to help each other out when needed. Their chemistry grew the more they were around one another and I fell for them as a couple after their very first kiss.
More Than Neighbors is the perfect read for fans of heart-felt contemporary romances. Shannon Stacey writes the best small-town romances, and I can’t wait to visit Blackberry Bay again soon.
Rating: 4 Stars (B)
Review copy provided by publisher
April 23, 2021
3.5 stars. This was a pretty cute start to a new series. The author has some irritating writing habits, but overall I enjoyed this one. My favorite character was Sophie, the little 6-year-old girl. 🥰
What I liked:
I can already tell who the next book is going to be about and I already really like her.
The cat and dog were so cute and had a lot of personality!
I liked the emphasis on reading and going to the library.
What I disliked:
I feel like we didn’t get to know the small town enough. These kind of books tend to make the small town it’s own character, but this one really didn’t do that.
Likewise, I feel like the two leads didn’t have very deep personalities either. I got more joy and life from the little girl and the dog and cat.
The author had a tendency to introduce a character or situation as being a certain way (overly shy, for example) and then the actual storyline would play out completely different.
Conclusion:
This was cute enough, although I don’t think this author will be a favorite. Her characters seem too distant for my liking, which made it harder for me to connect with this book. She’s also a tad too descriptive with her “scenes” which I’d prefer to do without (still in the PG-13 range, if you’re curious). I am looking forward to the next story though, so I do want to continue at least through this series!
What I liked:
I can already tell who the next book is going to be about and I already really like her.
The cat and dog were so cute and had a lot of personality!
I liked the emphasis on reading and going to the library.
What I disliked:
I feel like we didn’t get to know the small town enough. These kind of books tend to make the small town it’s own character, but this one really didn’t do that.
Likewise, I feel like the two leads didn’t have very deep personalities either. I got more joy and life from the little girl and the dog and cat.
The author had a tendency to introduce a character or situation as being a certain way (overly shy, for example) and then the actual storyline would play out completely different.
Conclusion:
This was cute enough, although I don’t think this author will be a favorite. Her characters seem too distant for my liking, which made it harder for me to connect with this book. She’s also a tad too descriptive with her “scenes” which I’d prefer to do without (still in the PG-13 range, if you’re curious). I am looking forward to the next story though, so I do want to continue at least through this series!
June 18, 2020
Meredith Price is starting a new life for herself and her daughter Sophie after the death of her husband. She has bought a quaint little house on the water in her hometown, Blackberry Bay so she could be close to her parents. They are settling in nicely until Meredith finds out that the house next door has a new owner, and it is not the sweet little old lady that use to live there.
Cam Maguire is in Blackberry Bay to settle his late grandmothers’ estate as quickly as he can so he can head back to New York to his job and his life. He never knew his grandmother, so he is intent on finding out more about his family before he sells the property. Everything is going well until he meets his new neighbors Meredith and Sophie.
Trying to maintain their distance is not as easy as Cam and Meredith think it will be. Little Sophie is determined to make a new friend in Cam and he can’t resist the little girl. Soon it becomes outings, dinners, and trips to the library as a group. Can Cam walk away from this adorable little girl and the attraction he feels for Meredith before it is too late? Can Meredith handle losing yet another man in her life and a father figure for Sophie?
I love this feel good romance set in a small quaint town. The characters were so beautifully written, and it tugs at your heart strings from page one. This is the first book in the series, and I cannot wait to see who the next book will be about and catch up with Cam, Meredith and Sophie again. Thank you so much to the author Shannon Stacey, Harlequin and NetGalley for an advanced copy to read and review.
Cam Maguire is in Blackberry Bay to settle his late grandmothers’ estate as quickly as he can so he can head back to New York to his job and his life. He never knew his grandmother, so he is intent on finding out more about his family before he sells the property. Everything is going well until he meets his new neighbors Meredith and Sophie.
Trying to maintain their distance is not as easy as Cam and Meredith think it will be. Little Sophie is determined to make a new friend in Cam and he can’t resist the little girl. Soon it becomes outings, dinners, and trips to the library as a group. Can Cam walk away from this adorable little girl and the attraction he feels for Meredith before it is too late? Can Meredith handle losing yet another man in her life and a father figure for Sophie?
I love this feel good romance set in a small quaint town. The characters were so beautifully written, and it tugs at your heart strings from page one. This is the first book in the series, and I cannot wait to see who the next book will be about and catch up with Cam, Meredith and Sophie again. Thank you so much to the author Shannon Stacey, Harlequin and NetGalley for an advanced copy to read and review.
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