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Hickory Grove #4
The Innkeeper's House
A heartbroken teacher. A rugged hometown stud. And the local B&B, complete with innkeeper's quarters...
Grade school teacher Greta Houston had it all. An easy suburban teaching gig. A brand-new condo in her perfectly medium-sized city. And a smart fiance with an impressive bank account. Then, her future husband dumps her. And she only has one other person in the world for support: her brother, Rhett. Crushed and unable to keep up mortgage payments alone, she has no choice but ask her brother for help.
So he tells her to move home. To Hickory Grove.
Luke Hart is a local golden boy. His high school's star athlete, he had one plan when it came time to build a career: coach at his alma mater. And, it works out: he teaches P.E. during the day and coaches in the afternoons. But when Luke's grandmother falls ill, it's up to him and his sister, Liesel, to take over the Hart family inheritance: The Hickory Grove Inn. The only problem? A brother-sister feud that dates back decades preventing them from working together. They need an objective third party to help run the business. And fast.
Meanwhile, Greta, ready to settle down for once and for all, has her eye on the precious cottage up behind Hickory Grove Inn. The one that is usually reserved for the innkeeper. The one that her new coworker now owns...
Take a trip to the heart of America, and fall in love with Hickory Grove's quirky residents who work hard, enjoy the simple life, and always put love first. Each title is a standalone read.
The Schoolhouse: Book One
The Christmas House: Book Two
The Farmhouse: Book Three
The Innkeeper's House: Book Four
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2020
1437 people are currently reading
496 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Bromke
56 books224 followersElizabeth Bromke writes women's fiction and heartwarming romance. In her stories, she weaves together family dynamics and the triumphs and trials of modern relationships. Echoes of the past flavor her books with nostalgia.
Elizabeth lives in the mountains of Arizona. There, she enjoys walking, reading, and cooking with her husband, son, and their sweet Golden-mix, Winnie.
Elizabeth lives in the mountains of Arizona. There, she enjoys walking, reading, and cooking with her husband, son, and their sweet Golden-mix, Winnie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
May 18, 2020
Welcome back to the small town of Hickory Grove. After a broken engagement Greta Houston heads back to Hickory Grove where the only family she has left, her brother Rhett, lives. She moves into the partially renovated barn of Rhett's girlfriend, Maggie, while she decides if she wants to stay in Hickory Grove and apply for a job at the local school.
Luke Hart is the P.E. teacher at the school, he's also the football coach, and he volunteers at the local church. As if that's not enough to keep him busy, his beloved Mamaw Hart recently died and he and his Aunt Liesel have to decide what to do with the Hickory Grove Inn. They were already in need of a night manager, now they'll have to decide if they're going to keep the Inn or sell it.
It was nice to get to know Greta and Luke, although Greta gave me mild whiplash trying to decide what she wanted to do--teach in Hickory Grove or go back to Chicago. The girl needed to make up her mind and stick with it. Once she finally does that she's all in. When she remembers her mother saying, 'find what makes you happy and do it' she's able to decide what she wants to do, where she wants to live and who she wants to live it with.
I like the way this author writes her books with each chapter alternating between Luke and Greta's viewpoint. I like knowing what's going on each character's head. Although I like reading about the residents of Hickory Grove, I could never live in such a small place that everyone seems to know your business. I did enjoy that everyone pitched in and helped renovate the Hickory Grove Inn. I think Luke's Mamaw Hart would've been thrilled with the results.
I think we could've had a little more of Luke and Greta dating before the epilogue. The ending was kind of rushed--Greta decided she wanted to live in the cottage, they kissed and then epilogue. Just another chapter would've been good.
This is part of a series but each one is written so that it can be a standalone. Personally, I think they're more enjoyable if you read them in order since the previous characters are mentioned and the reader gets a little update in their lives.
I received a complimentary copy via BookSprout. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
Luke Hart is the P.E. teacher at the school, he's also the football coach, and he volunteers at the local church. As if that's not enough to keep him busy, his beloved Mamaw Hart recently died and he and his Aunt Liesel have to decide what to do with the Hickory Grove Inn. They were already in need of a night manager, now they'll have to decide if they're going to keep the Inn or sell it.
It was nice to get to know Greta and Luke, although Greta gave me mild whiplash trying to decide what she wanted to do--teach in Hickory Grove or go back to Chicago. The girl needed to make up her mind and stick with it. Once she finally does that she's all in. When she remembers her mother saying, 'find what makes you happy and do it' she's able to decide what she wants to do, where she wants to live and who she wants to live it with.
I like the way this author writes her books with each chapter alternating between Luke and Greta's viewpoint. I like knowing what's going on each character's head. Although I like reading about the residents of Hickory Grove, I could never live in such a small place that everyone seems to know your business. I did enjoy that everyone pitched in and helped renovate the Hickory Grove Inn. I think Luke's Mamaw Hart would've been thrilled with the results.
I think we could've had a little more of Luke and Greta dating before the epilogue. The ending was kind of rushed--Greta decided she wanted to live in the cottage, they kissed and then epilogue. Just another chapter would've been good.
This is part of a series but each one is written so that it can be a standalone. Personally, I think they're more enjoyable if you read them in order since the previous characters are mentioned and the reader gets a little update in their lives.
I received a complimentary copy via BookSprout. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
May 10, 2020
Sweet and Clean Modern Romance
This book is fourth in the series and the first that I have read. It stands alone well, but I have a suspicion that I would have enjoyed the story better if I had read the previous books. The story is a very sweet and clean romance that I kept waiting for it to get good. When our heroine finally decided what she wanted, the author kind of hit that and jumped ahead to the future. It felt like I had missed the main course and dessert. I also felt that it really could have used a religious connection more personal than just having the church being the center of the town's social life. In short, it was good, but it could have been so much more. I received this ARC book for free from Booksprouts and this is my honest review.
This book is fourth in the series and the first that I have read. It stands alone well, but I have a suspicion that I would have enjoyed the story better if I had read the previous books. The story is a very sweet and clean romance that I kept waiting for it to get good. When our heroine finally decided what she wanted, the author kind of hit that and jumped ahead to the future. It felt like I had missed the main course and dessert. I also felt that it really could have used a religious connection more personal than just having the church being the center of the town's social life. In short, it was good, but it could have been so much more. I received this ARC book for free from Booksprouts and this is my honest review.
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January 9, 2021This waffled too much, and I gave up when I had to read one page four times to try to make sense of the relationships being explained.
August 8, 2020
I've been watching books pop up by this author for quite a while now. Several of my book reading friends with similar tastes have read and loved her books. I'm even subscribed to her newsletter and have fun seeing what new books she's coming out with. But you know the old adage, so many books, so little time. That fits me to a 'T.' So when I had the chance to listen to the audiobook of this one, I jumped at the chance wanting to finally see what so many of my friends were enjoying.
It was a cute return to roots and small town story. Some heartache and struggles and a couple main characters trying to figure out what direction to head in life. With many changes happening in their lives and a desire for something more, they're at crossroads. But Greta returning to Hickory Grove helps to bring some of those crossroads together and finding answers.
I liked both Greta and Luke. I laughed at one of the scenes with them when they thought they were talking to someone else but were actually talking to each other. It was pretty funny and cute! I loved their interactions. Especially their first "bump into each other" and their first real "meeting." The first kiss was very sweet too!
Overall, I enjoyed it and thought that Hickory Grove was a quaint town with characters whose story I want to know more about. I enjoyed the audiobook and liked the narrator. I love being able to listen to books while working around the house or yard, or chauffeuring children around or running errands or just sitting still and listening. This one definitely kept me entertained.
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
It was a cute return to roots and small town story. Some heartache and struggles and a couple main characters trying to figure out what direction to head in life. With many changes happening in their lives and a desire for something more, they're at crossroads. But Greta returning to Hickory Grove helps to bring some of those crossroads together and finding answers.
I liked both Greta and Luke. I laughed at one of the scenes with them when they thought they were talking to someone else but were actually talking to each other. It was pretty funny and cute! I loved their interactions. Especially their first "bump into each other" and their first real "meeting." The first kiss was very sweet too!
Overall, I enjoyed it and thought that Hickory Grove was a quaint town with characters whose story I want to know more about. I enjoyed the audiobook and liked the narrator. I love being able to listen to books while working around the house or yard, or chauffeuring children around or running errands or just sitting still and listening. This one definitely kept me entertained.
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
May 1, 2020
This is a sweet, clean romance that takes place in a small town setting. The Innkeeper's House is a quick read with likable characters who are simply looking for love and their HEA. It's a great read for sitting on your front porch and enjoying romance and love in these trying times.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout. All thoughts are my own.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout. All thoughts are my own.
July 25, 2020
The Innkeeper's House is an amazing story written by Elizabeth Bromke in her Hickory Grove series. This is book four of the series and continues to grow the group of old friends from their school days. The characters are very likeable and seen so realistic. This story centers around new arrival Greta and her quest for love, home, and happiness.
Greta arrivers in Hickory Grove after a break-up with her fiance. She has no job, no place to live, and isn't fully sure she wants to put down roots in her hometown. With her brother Rhett now living here she is thinking living closer to him would be great. When she heard of a job in the Language Arts opening up she ponders whether she wants to teacher middle school. When offered the job she decides to accept and then the craziness really sets in. She has developed a crush on the football coach Luke Hart but he is dealing with a devastating loss, a meddling aunt, and what to do about the family inn so connecting with him isn't easy. After a few misunderstandings and drama from characters from previous books Greta is considering different options. This story moves right along and keeps the readers interest and there is a lead in to the next book of the series.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Elizabeth Bromke on the release of another fantastic story for her readers enjoyment.
Greta arrivers in Hickory Grove after a break-up with her fiance. She has no job, no place to live, and isn't fully sure she wants to put down roots in her hometown. With her brother Rhett now living here she is thinking living closer to him would be great. When she heard of a job in the Language Arts opening up she ponders whether she wants to teacher middle school. When offered the job she decides to accept and then the craziness really sets in. She has developed a crush on the football coach Luke Hart but he is dealing with a devastating loss, a meddling aunt, and what to do about the family inn so connecting with him isn't easy. After a few misunderstandings and drama from characters from previous books Greta is considering different options. This story moves right along and keeps the readers interest and there is a lead in to the next book of the series.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.
Congratulations to Elizabeth Bromke on the release of another fantastic story for her readers enjoyment.
January 21, 2021
The Innkeeper's House Hickory Grove #4 was a sweet, enjoyable read as well as the author being new to me. Both pleasant aspects. Although I did not read the prior books in this series, I had no trouble following along. And after reading this book, I would like to go back and read the series from the beginning as well as the books that take place after.
Hickory Grove is a small town. The citizens are loyal and involved. To say there are a few matchmakers present is an understatement. However, Greta was strong-willed and wasn't going to let anyone influence her decisions. She was only in town on a temporary basis. Looking for a new start in life, Hickory Grove was only supposed to be a stop along the way. Her brother Rhett convinced her to come back to her hometown and stay while she thought about what was next. Greta was sure about one thing. She wanted to teach.
Luke has made Hickory Grove his home. When his beloved grandmother passes away and leaves her B&B to Luke and his aunt, Luke's life becomes a bit overwhelming. But not so much so that he doesn't take notice to the town's beautiful new resident. The build of relationship between Luke and Greta is a slow one. Despite the attraction between them, neither Luke nor Greta is sure a relationship would work when she has plans to move on. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and evolve regardless of the fact they were keeping distance between them intentionally. I felt their chemistry and connection. Both were mature characters despite not being sure of some things; not willing to take chances for one. But everything worked out in a satisfying way and I finished the last page with a smile and a curiosity about the previous books. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a quick, low angst, sweet and endearing read with a slew of likable secondary characters.
This is my honest and unbiased review and I thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
Hickory Grove is a small town. The citizens are loyal and involved. To say there are a few matchmakers present is an understatement. However, Greta was strong-willed and wasn't going to let anyone influence her decisions. She was only in town on a temporary basis. Looking for a new start in life, Hickory Grove was only supposed to be a stop along the way. Her brother Rhett convinced her to come back to her hometown and stay while she thought about what was next. Greta was sure about one thing. She wanted to teach.
Luke has made Hickory Grove his home. When his beloved grandmother passes away and leaves her B&B to Luke and his aunt, Luke's life becomes a bit overwhelming. But not so much so that he doesn't take notice to the town's beautiful new resident. The build of relationship between Luke and Greta is a slow one. Despite the attraction between them, neither Luke nor Greta is sure a relationship would work when she has plans to move on. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and evolve regardless of the fact they were keeping distance between them intentionally. I felt their chemistry and connection. Both were mature characters despite not being sure of some things; not willing to take chances for one. But everything worked out in a satisfying way and I finished the last page with a smile and a curiosity about the previous books. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a quick, low angst, sweet and endearing read with a slew of likable secondary characters.
This is my honest and unbiased review and I thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
April 30, 2021
This takes place in the summer in Indiana. The story is a clean, small-town romance. It is about a teacher and a football coach and an old Bed & Breakfast. The characters have to figure out what's important and what they want. The story was okay. It felt slow. It didn't help that not a lot happened. I didn't like Greta, but I did like Luke. Greta became more likeable as the story progressed. The ending leads into the next book.
May 11, 2020
Luke and his aunt inherited the local B&B from his grandmother, together with her house next to it. The problem is that both of them have full time jobs and cannot take on the additional work long-term.
When Greta comes home and is hired to teach at the same school as he he hopes for more than just a tenant, who will take a turn to be night supervisor at the B&B, he has fallen for her.
I am not so sure I like Greta as a character in the beginning. Nothing wrong with wanting family, but her focus is a little too strong for my taste, and too naive.
Having said that, her character gets better during the story and towards the end I honestly enjoyed the story.
All in all a well-written story and fun to readl
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Greta comes home and is hired to teach at the same school as he he hopes for more than just a tenant, who will take a turn to be night supervisor at the B&B, he has fallen for her.
I am not so sure I like Greta as a character in the beginning. Nothing wrong with wanting family, but her focus is a little too strong for my taste, and too naive.
Having said that, her character gets better during the story and towards the end I honestly enjoyed the story.
All in all a well-written story and fun to readl
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 9, 2020
I LOVED this next instalment in the Hickory Grove novels.
Greta ,whose brother Rhett is dating Maggie , (their story was told in The Farmhouse) moves back home from the big city after breaking up with her fiance, in search of work and a new start.
On her very first day there she spies Luke, the handsome PE teacher at the local diner.
Luke is taken by Greta when he bumps in to her but mistakenly believes that she is in a relationship.
The two then meet on a more official basis at the local school when Greta successfully applies for a position there.
I really enjoyed catching up with the characters from previous books.
The story flowed and though there were a few hiccups there was a lovely happy ending.
I cannot wait to read more of this series - a great read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Greta ,whose brother Rhett is dating Maggie , (their story was told in The Farmhouse) moves back home from the big city after breaking up with her fiance, in search of work and a new start.
On her very first day there she spies Luke, the handsome PE teacher at the local diner.
Luke is taken by Greta when he bumps in to her but mistakenly believes that she is in a relationship.
The two then meet on a more official basis at the local school when Greta successfully applies for a position there.
I really enjoyed catching up with the characters from previous books.
The story flowed and though there were a few hiccups there was a lovely happy ending.
I cannot wait to read more of this series - a great read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 11, 2020
This book is about a woman who returns to her childhood home after a broken engagement. She feels that she is too good to teach middle school English in a rural school district. However, she finds the handsome middle school PE teacher attractive. Her brother convinces her to apply for the teaching position for which she is hired. She then needs to find housing. This leads her to the town bed and breakfast innkeeper's house for rent. Interestingly, the bed and breakfast and house are co-owned by the PE teacher. Romance develops and the woman finds everything her heart was desiring.
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.
May 12, 2020
This was a sweet read about Greta finally coming home and trying to find herself which turns out might not be what she thought she needed and Luke having given up on finding love due to the very very limited dating pool in town. I really liked how they danced around each other and how there was meddling by others to try and get them together, even if they didn't think they need anyone trying to push them. There are some great laughs, sadness, family and fun that keeps you turning the page and enjoying another visit to this wonderful town full of great people.
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.
May 10, 2020
Greta Houston has been dumped by her guy and needs to relax and start over. The best place for that is the town where her brother lives, and maybe she can find a new job as a teacher. Luke Hart’s grandma has been sick. When she passes away, she leaves him the Hickory Grove Inn. But he needs help to run it or he will have to sell and lose his connection with his past. Will Greta and Luke’s paths cross and a solution for both of them be found?
I enjoyed this book, the interesting story line, and the wonderful characters the reader gets to meet. Will there be any chemistry between Greta and Luke that may lead them to a HEA?
I enjoyed this book, the interesting story line, and the wonderful characters the reader gets to meet. Will there be any chemistry between Greta and Luke that may lead them to a HEA?
July 17, 2021
A sweet book
This book was a fast read for me, especially since I loved the sweetness of the story...I'm close to the area of the town in the story. Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
This book was a fast read for me, especially since I loved the sweetness of the story...I'm close to the area of the town in the story. Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
May 5, 2020
This is such a great story. Greta decides to leave the big city and go back to her old home in Hickory Grove. She likes being near her brother, Rhett. Greta applies for some teaching jobs and lands an interview at her old school. She meets Luke who is a football coach and oh so easy on the eyes. Luke's grandma passes and now he has the task of taking care of the Innkeeper's Inn. Could Greta be the answer to his problem since she needs a place to live. Would she consider taking the overnight calls. This book is such a sweet read in a small town. You will have to read this wonderful story to see if Great can follow her mom's advice to "find what makes you happy and do it."I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2020
If you like small town life and clean romance, you will enjoy reading this book. I enjoyed it and especially liked that Greta and Luke had their HEA. Hickory Grove sounds like a place where I would enjoy living. They have fish frys at the church where the whole town attends and everyone helps with the meal. They also get together to restore the local B&B after the owner dies and leaves it to her grandson, Luke, and his Aunt Liesel. The B&B represents the heritage of the Hart family and the town so this restoration keeps it from being bought and torn down by a developer putting up modern buildings. I highly recommend this feel good book.
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.
April 30, 2020
The Innkeeper's House- A Hickory Grove Novel bk 4 by Elizabeth Bromke.
Elizabeth is new to me as this is only the third book that I have read of hers, the two are from her Birch Harbour series. I found a character here that also gets a mention in the Birch Harbour Series love how books /series gets connected:)
I really enjoyed this book and found it was beautifully written and has a very good storyline. Love the chemistry between the main characters Greta and Luke. I have now purchased the first three books in this series even though it could be read as a standalone. I highly recommend this.5*
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elizabeth is new to me as this is only the third book that I have read of hers, the two are from her Birch Harbour series. I found a character here that also gets a mention in the Birch Harbour Series love how books /series gets connected:)
I really enjoyed this book and found it was beautifully written and has a very good storyline. Love the chemistry between the main characters Greta and Luke. I have now purchased the first three books in this series even though it could be read as a standalone. I highly recommend this.5*
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2020
Newly single Greta Houston returns to her small hometown of Hickory Grove, successfully applies for and is offered an ideal teaching position at her old school. After living in a city she's not certain that small town life will suit her but she'll be near to her brother.
If she stays she'll lose her dream of living and working in Chicago, it's a difficult decision. If she stays there's the blossoming mutual attraction between her and a fellow teacher. All she needs to do is determine her priorities in life, a career or the possibility of love and a family. Then she remembers her mother saying, 'find what makes you happy and do it'.
A lighthearted and enjoyable read, an excellent way to pass 'me time'.
ARC supplied by the author, this review is my honest opinion and completely unbiased.
If she stays she'll lose her dream of living and working in Chicago, it's a difficult decision. If she stays there's the blossoming mutual attraction between her and a fellow teacher. All she needs to do is determine her priorities in life, a career or the possibility of love and a family. Then she remembers her mother saying, 'find what makes you happy and do it'.
A lighthearted and enjoyable read, an excellent way to pass 'me time'.
ARC supplied by the author, this review is my honest opinion and completely unbiased.
June 18, 2020
Enjoy Being Back in Hickory Grove
It was fun being back in Hickory Grove and catching up with old friends from past books in this series. This latest edition to the series has Greta Houston returning to Hickory Grove after she goes through a broken engagement and desiring to find a job in secondary education a new school. Her brother Rhett convinces her to come back to where she grew up. Her housing situation in Maggie's barn apartment is temporary because she knows that Maggie's daughter was planning on moving into that apartment to use as a sewing place. Finding out there is an opening in the Language Arts Department in the Middle School has Greta questioning if Hickory Grove should become home. The very handsome PE teacher, Luke Hart , that she's been introduced to may just help her decide to put down roots in Hickory Grove.
I liked this story and really enjoyed seeing people from the past stories and finding out what they were up to. Every story could be read as a stand alone but you get so much more out of the books if you read them all in order. There is a continuation of the story from book to book and an overlap of characters.
I liked watching the interaction between Greta and Luke but would have liked to see a little more of it before jumping to the epilogue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was fun being back in Hickory Grove and catching up with old friends from past books in this series. This latest edition to the series has Greta Houston returning to Hickory Grove after she goes through a broken engagement and desiring to find a job in secondary education a new school. Her brother Rhett convinces her to come back to where she grew up. Her housing situation in Maggie's barn apartment is temporary because she knows that Maggie's daughter was planning on moving into that apartment to use as a sewing place. Finding out there is an opening in the Language Arts Department in the Middle School has Greta questioning if Hickory Grove should become home. The very handsome PE teacher, Luke Hart , that she's been introduced to may just help her decide to put down roots in Hickory Grove.
I liked this story and really enjoyed seeing people from the past stories and finding out what they were up to. Every story could be read as a stand alone but you get so much more out of the books if you read them all in order. There is a continuation of the story from book to book and an overlap of characters.
I liked watching the interaction between Greta and Luke but would have liked to see a little more of it before jumping to the epilogue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2022
This is the fourth book in the Hickory Grove series. I was not thrilled at all with it. It was extremely slow paced and boring to me. The characters were nothing to get excited about. There seemed to be a lot of repetitive information pertaining to Greta's personal history past and present desires. I found Luke to be much the same, a lot of repetitive information. The plot just never seemed to get off the ground. I have enjoyed the previous three books in this series but this one left a lot to be desired. I would recommend maybe skipping this one ...
A sweet-as-pie teacher. A hometown hero. And the local B&B, complete with innkeeper's quarters...
Fresh on the heels of a broken engagement and a dead-end subbing gig, would-be English teacher Greta Houston goes home for the summer. She needs to recharge, and the farm town is just the place. Friday night fish fry's and dusty back roads bring her down to earth, but Hickory Grove is only a pit stop on Greta's way back to the big city. Then she gets an interview... with the last place she'd ever thought to apply.
Football coach Luke Hart has too much on his plate. After moving to Hickory Grove to be closer to his ailing grandmother, he spends his days teaching, coaching, and volunteering at church. Life is good, until Mamaw Hart passes away, leaving him with a daunting heirloom: The Hickory Grove Inn. Luke needs help to run the place, or else he'll have to sell the one thing that connects him to his past.
Take a trip to the heart of America and fall in love with Hickory Grove's quirky residents who work hard, enjoy the simple life, and always put love first. Each title is a standalone read.
A sweet-as-pie teacher. A hometown hero. And the local B&B, complete with innkeeper's quarters...
Fresh on the heels of a broken engagement and a dead-end subbing gig, would-be English teacher Greta Houston goes home for the summer. She needs to recharge, and the farm town is just the place. Friday night fish fry's and dusty back roads bring her down to earth, but Hickory Grove is only a pit stop on Greta's way back to the big city. Then she gets an interview... with the last place she'd ever thought to apply.
Football coach Luke Hart has too much on his plate. After moving to Hickory Grove to be closer to his ailing grandmother, he spends his days teaching, coaching, and volunteering at church. Life is good, until Mamaw Hart passes away, leaving him with a daunting heirloom: The Hickory Grove Inn. Luke needs help to run the place, or else he'll have to sell the one thing that connects him to his past.
Take a trip to the heart of America and fall in love with Hickory Grove's quirky residents who work hard, enjoy the simple life, and always put love first. Each title is a standalone read.
February 11, 2024
I randomly picked this up because it was $2, so I haven't read the rest of the series, but this sweet romance novella is like a little plate of sugar cookies. Small town, inherited house/business that needs looking after so it doesn't go to a developer, teachers falling in love? These are all great! Especially as the teachers are a stand-up guy too busy working to date much, and a young and recently heartbroken teacher who is kinda passionate about the job (or at least about English lit), but more passionate about getting married & becoming a mom. The way she just comes right out and says that was her primary objective, in this day and age?? *chef's kiss*
(Though she does appear to fall a bit more in love with the idea of teaching in this specific town by the end.)
Also, in an unusual and welcome twist for a (faintly) Christian book, the main characters appear to be Catholic. The community fish fry tradition? Absolute staple, we love to see it.
I have to say, though, that while the rest of the series looks great, the house on this cover is...not it. This does not even remotely conjure up images of either the kind of house you'd turn into a B&B *or* the charming cottage behind it. Beige siding?? It's giving early-2000s housing development.
(Though she does appear to fall a bit more in love with the idea of teaching in this specific town by the end.)
Also, in an unusual and welcome twist for a (faintly) Christian book, the main characters appear to be Catholic. The community fish fry tradition? Absolute staple, we love to see it.
I have to say, though, that while the rest of the series looks great, the house on this cover is...not it. This does not even remotely conjure up images of either the kind of house you'd turn into a B&B *or* the charming cottage behind it. Beige siding?? It's giving early-2000s housing development.
July 20, 2020
I hadn’t read/listened to any stories by this author and when given the opportunity of listening to the audio version of this book, I couldn’t wait to get my earbuds on.
This sweet, clean contemporary romance was delightful.
The small town of Hickory Grove is a place where everyone knows your name and yes, your business. But there is also a great deal of support, in the midst of various opinions.
This story centers around Greta Houston and Luke Hart.
Greta, a HS teacher , is back in this small town she left for the big city. This was the place her mother didn’t seem to be happy but it’s where her brother has made a life, and also the place where the only school that is offering her a job. Middle school might not have been her goal , but a job is a job. She meets football coach and PE teacher Luke, a man trying to take care of his family’s Bed & Breakfast, school, coaching etc. When these two meet, the attraction is evident. But will Greta realize that happiness might just be in front of her? That happiness doesn’t come from outside but from within herself?
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and will be looking for my books by this author.
This sweet, clean contemporary romance was delightful.
The small town of Hickory Grove is a place where everyone knows your name and yes, your business. But there is also a great deal of support, in the midst of various opinions.
This story centers around Greta Houston and Luke Hart.
Greta, a HS teacher , is back in this small town she left for the big city. This was the place her mother didn’t seem to be happy but it’s where her brother has made a life, and also the place where the only school that is offering her a job. Middle school might not have been her goal , but a job is a job. She meets football coach and PE teacher Luke, a man trying to take care of his family’s Bed & Breakfast, school, coaching etc. When these two meet, the attraction is evident. But will Greta realize that happiness might just be in front of her? That happiness doesn’t come from outside but from within herself?
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and will be looking for my books by this author.
November 16, 2021
This just didn’t do it for me. There wasn’t enough interaction or real communication between the main characters at all. I couldn’t connect with them. Felt no attachment to them whatsoever.
This was a quick read and I got the book free on kindle, so I don’t really feel jilted or cheated in that sense. But I won’t be reading any other of these books. I just… I really didn’t get a whole lot of enjoyment out of it. The characters don’t even really get together at all until it’s almost over. We get a couple kisses and then BAM! Epilogue and it’s over.
Again, I got it free, so I don’t feel too bad. Just feel like I wasted a bit of time on this. If I’d actually paid for it, I would not be a happy camper. Nope. Not at all.
This was a quick read and I got the book free on kindle, so I don’t really feel jilted or cheated in that sense. But I won’t be reading any other of these books. I just… I really didn’t get a whole lot of enjoyment out of it. The characters don’t even really get together at all until it’s almost over. We get a couple kisses and then BAM! Epilogue and it’s over.
Again, I got it free, so I don’t feel too bad. Just feel like I wasted a bit of time on this. If I’d actually paid for it, I would not be a happy camper. Nope. Not at all.
May 11, 2020
A great story with two new characters with other characters from past stories add to the spirit of the book. Greta is on the heels of a break up when she moves to Hickory Grove for a new start. She only has her brother Rhett who encourages her to move there. Luke is the local hero for the town. He is also the PE teacher at the local school. Luke and his sister inherit the local inn and have issues on how to run it. Greta like the cottage in the back of the inn but will she be the impartial third party to help the feuding siblings?
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.
May 18, 2020
The Innkeeper´s House is a beautifull love story where the main issue is the two main characters quest for happiness. One is sure that only the love life needs improvement, the other needs reassurance regarding professional and personal lives. At last they discover that happiness is reached when it comes from within themselves. You really have to be at peace with yourself to be happy at your whereabouts and with what you have and who you love. The story is written with fluency and captures the reader´s attention. A truly enjoyable reading.
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
May 25, 2020
This is a very sweet and clean book with a nice small hometown feeling. I have read other books by Ms. Bromke and one thing her books always focus on is family, which I really love. The characters are realistic and likable with great personalities. Ms. Bromke really brings the story to life with her writing and you really get to know the characters and the town and you feel as if you are part of the story as well. It was a well told story and flowed very smoothly. This is a wonderful series and I'm looking forward to the next book!
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 14, 2021
This was an easy read, that I really NEEDED right now! A schoolteacher looks for a job teaching English. A football coach & his sister own a bed and breakfast (B & B). Their grandmother owned it but she passed away. She had a home, that she lived in next to the B & B. The coach & his sister decided to try to find a tenant, who would be night manager on call for the B & B. The teacher accepted a position as a Language Arts teacher, leaving her to seek a home to rent. She ended up renting the home & a relationship ensued with the football coach. But sometimes things don’t work out. Do they work out or not?
February 7, 2021
Sweet romance
This was short and sweet for me. Greta was looking to set down roots and looking for her happiness.
Luke was looking for a tenant after his Mamaw's (grandmother's) passing, as well as someone to be his Mamaw's night manager.
They had a spark between them when they first met and it was obvious that they will be together.
There wasn't much conflict except Greta's indecision on staying in Hickory Grove, or pursuing another teaching position in a big city.
This unwillingness to commit drove off Luke and they had a bit of ignoring each other until eventually things cleared up.
This was short and sweet for me. Greta was looking to set down roots and looking for her happiness.
Luke was looking for a tenant after his Mamaw's (grandmother's) passing, as well as someone to be his Mamaw's night manager.
They had a spark between them when they first met and it was obvious that they will be together.
There wasn't much conflict except Greta's indecision on staying in Hickory Grove, or pursuing another teaching position in a big city.
This unwillingness to commit drove off Luke and they had a bit of ignoring each other until eventually things cleared up.
June 5, 2021
I would consider this more of a beach read than a fun, quick, romance; in fact, there's very little romance until nearly the end of the book. The characters were difficult to really get into, some of the sentence structure had me reading lines two and three times to understand their meaning. And there are a lot of characters either with names that weren't memorable or were too similar to each other. The story was interesting but was very slow in pace. I never really felt I cared about the outcome and even though I grew to like some of the characters by the end, it isn't enough to make me want to read the next book. Standalone, part of a series, HEA.
May 2, 2020
I received an ARC to review: Hickory Grove's story continues in this 4th book of the series. Greta and Luke's chemistry wrestles with their willingness to take the plunge in showing the other their attraction, all conplicated by external factors such as tenants, jobs and, of course, the beady eyes of everyone in the small town! A light, pleasant read that will bring pleasure to romantics and fans of small town sagas.
Language: 100% clean
Sex: none - sweet kissing only
Triggers: death; big life decisions
Language: 100% clean
Sex: none - sweet kissing only
Triggers: death; big life decisions
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