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Tangle Valley #1
Entangled
Josephine Wilder’s torrid love affair is with Tangle Valley Vineyard, her family’s legacy. She’s grown up dreaming between the vines. She’s always had secret ideas about how to make the place shine, so when it passes to her, Joey vows to make Tangle Valley everything she knows it can be. Her biggest obstacle? That overly commercial hotel going up, and the uppity manager trying to kill the vineyard’s rustic charm.
Becca Crawford loves to unwind with a good glass of wine. An astute business woman who has climbed the hospitality ladder, she’s the perfect person to head up Elite Resorts’ newest property, The Jade Hotel, and give tourists all the luxury they desire. As a bonus, The Jade is not far from the cutest vineyard with the best pinot she’s ever tasted. If only the captivating owner would get on board with her plan and stop badmouthing the hotel to everyone in town.
Is it possible that a nice glass of red could help Becca and Joey see each other in a new and alluring light?
Cover Artist: Jeanine Henning
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Becca Crawford loves to unwind with a good glass of wine. An astute business woman who has climbed the hospitality ladder, she’s the perfect person to head up Elite Resorts’ newest property, The Jade Hotel, and give tourists all the luxury they desire. As a bonus, The Jade is not far from the cutest vineyard with the best pinot she’s ever tasted. If only the captivating owner would get on board with her plan and stop badmouthing the hotel to everyone in town.
Is it possible that a nice glass of red could help Becca and Joey see each other in a new and alluring light?
Cover Artist: Jeanine Henning
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
260 pages, Paperback
First published July 14, 2020
121 people are currently reading
1033 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Brayden
35 books2,811 followersMelissa Brayden is the multi-award winning author of more than twenty-five sapphic romance novels and is hard at work on more. She is a wine enthusiast, a fan of all donuts, and is probably staring off into space as you're reading this. You can find her at www.melissabrayden.com and on most social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
June 15, 2020
4.25 Stars. I have been really lucky to be on a great string of books lately. When I decided to read the new Brayden book I knew my good luck streak would continue. While I tend to enjoy Brayden’s standalone and more dramatic books the most, there is something about picking up the first book in one of her series about friends finding love, that just makes me excited and gives me some butterflies of happiness. I really enjoyed this read and I’m looking forward to reading more of this series.
As soon as I heard the premise of this series, I knew I was going to enjoy these books. I love stories that take place on a vineyard. And I have actually been more interested in Oregon vineyards lately, since California wine country is a little played out, so I have to give Brayden props for putting this in Oregon. Something about the beautiful setting and the intimacy of sharing wine with someone, it’s just so easy to fall for a romance among the vines. I think Brayden did a wonderful job with the setting and I can’t wait for more books to take place in this small town.
I was happy with the characters. The three main characters, which will each star in their own book, are all likeable and have their unique personalities. This book is Joey’s story, who happens to be the heart of Tangle Valley Vineyard. It was a good place to start and I warmed to her immediately. The next book looks to be Gabriella’s story (and there is a big hint who her love interest will be) saving Madison, who intrigues me the most, for last.
When it came to the romance I enjoyed it. I thought the two characters had a good amount of chemistry and really sparked together. The match felt right and I was rooting for them. The big angst/conflict moment is very predictable, so you can see it coming, but I was still okay with it. I hate feeling like there is forced conflict thrown in and in this case I did not. I thought the character that was wronged, had a believable reaction. It was not so much what the other character did, but how they handled it was where they went so wrong. I’m being vague here on purpose; I just mean the conflict felt believable for the characters which I appreciate.
If you are Brayden fan this book should be automatically on your to read list. It was classic Brayden and I’m excited for more stories in this world. It looks like the next book in this series is coming out later this year so I’m glad we won’t have to wait long for more from Tangle Valley.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
As soon as I heard the premise of this series, I knew I was going to enjoy these books. I love stories that take place on a vineyard. And I have actually been more interested in Oregon vineyards lately, since California wine country is a little played out, so I have to give Brayden props for putting this in Oregon. Something about the beautiful setting and the intimacy of sharing wine with someone, it’s just so easy to fall for a romance among the vines. I think Brayden did a wonderful job with the setting and I can’t wait for more books to take place in this small town.
I was happy with the characters. The three main characters, which will each star in their own book, are all likeable and have their unique personalities. This book is Joey’s story, who happens to be the heart of Tangle Valley Vineyard. It was a good place to start and I warmed to her immediately. The next book looks to be Gabriella’s story (and there is a big hint who her love interest will be) saving Madison, who intrigues me the most, for last.
When it came to the romance I enjoyed it. I thought the two characters had a good amount of chemistry and really sparked together. The match felt right and I was rooting for them. The big angst/conflict moment is very predictable, so you can see it coming, but I was still okay with it. I hate feeling like there is forced conflict thrown in and in this case I did not. I thought the character that was wronged, had a believable reaction. It was not so much what the other character did, but how they handled it was where they went so wrong. I’m being vague here on purpose; I just mean the conflict felt believable for the characters which I appreciate.
If you are Brayden fan this book should be automatically on your to read list. It was classic Brayden and I’m excited for more stories in this world. It looks like the next book in this series is coming out later this year so I’m glad we won’t have to wait long for more from Tangle Valley.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
May 10, 2021
I’m going to make this short : when in doubt, Melissa Brayden!
*drops the mic*
*drops the mic*
July 11, 2020
A Melissa Brayden trilogy starring three women and a winery in the leading roles? Yes, please. In Entangled we are introduced to Joey Wilder, new owner and manager of Tangle Valley Vineyard. Joey has lived in Whisper Wall, Oregon and worked at Tangle Valley her whole life. She has big plans for the winery, enlisting the help of her childhood friend Madison, a vintner with a growing reputation and Madison’s ex, Gabriella, a creative force in the kitchen. Even her love life is getting an overhaul when the beautiful Becca catches her eye in the tasting room. Now if only she could find a way to halt construction of that mega resort promising to spoil all that is quaint in Whisper Wall, Joey’s life would be perfect.
I love a good trilogy and Ms. Brayden is one of the best at creating a world we readers can jump into with our hearts and both feet. We meet the stars of the next books in the series and get to know them a little but the focus is on the trials, troubles, joys and heartbreaks experienced by Joey and Becca. Brayden writes attraction with finesse. From their first meeting you can feel the heat, sparks flying and promise of romantic scenes to come. Their relationship is so solid you can’t help but worry what will happen when the bad things start, because you know there will be hurdles to cross.
This book is like a big warm hug. I love the way Brayden captures the pleasure we get as women chatting about anything and everything. The old biddies who love nothing more than fresh gossip add lightness to offset the fears Joey has around running a successful business.
Becca might be the big bad face of Jade but her honesty and integrity shine through and make her worthy of courting the town’s sweetheart and hard luck story. This one pulls at your heartstrings and I found myself tearing up during a pivotal scene near the end of the novel. Bonus points for making me cry.
Loved it. Can’t wait for Gabriella’s story.
ARC received with thanks from publisher for review.
I love a good trilogy and Ms. Brayden is one of the best at creating a world we readers can jump into with our hearts and both feet. We meet the stars of the next books in the series and get to know them a little but the focus is on the trials, troubles, joys and heartbreaks experienced by Joey and Becca. Brayden writes attraction with finesse. From their first meeting you can feel the heat, sparks flying and promise of romantic scenes to come. Their relationship is so solid you can’t help but worry what will happen when the bad things start, because you know there will be hurdles to cross.
This book is like a big warm hug. I love the way Brayden captures the pleasure we get as women chatting about anything and everything. The old biddies who love nothing more than fresh gossip add lightness to offset the fears Joey has around running a successful business.
Becca might be the big bad face of Jade but her honesty and integrity shine through and make her worthy of courting the town’s sweetheart and hard luck story. This one pulls at your heartstrings and I found myself tearing up during a pivotal scene near the end of the novel. Bonus points for making me cry.
Loved it. Can’t wait for Gabriella’s story.
ARC received with thanks from publisher for review.
June 16, 2020
4.5 stars
This is my new favourite book by this author, and there have been a few. Brayden is my go-to author when I'm in the mood for a feel-good romance.
Although her last book was a little too sweet for me, this one strikes the perfect balance between 'aw-shucks' and 'oh shit.'
The story is told in third-person and from both heroine's point-of-view, something I always appreciate. I adored both Joey and Becca. Their story didn't go in the direction I anticipated, and that made it all the more gripping.
The supporting cast is just as fabulous. Brayden has crafted a wonderful tale. And the ending, wow, way to hook a reader into desperately needing the next book.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley.
This is my new favourite book by this author, and there have been a few. Brayden is my go-to author when I'm in the mood for a feel-good romance.
Although her last book was a little too sweet for me, this one strikes the perfect balance between 'aw-shucks' and 'oh shit.'
The story is told in third-person and from both heroine's point-of-view, something I always appreciate. I adored both Joey and Becca. Their story didn't go in the direction I anticipated, and that made it all the more gripping.
The supporting cast is just as fabulous. Brayden has crafted a wonderful tale. And the ending, wow, way to hook a reader into desperately needing the next book.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley.
June 19, 2020
Ages ago, a friend from Oregon took us on a wine-tasting trip in Sonoma Valley on our way to San Francisco. Now I wish we had stayed in Oregon and visited Willamette Valley instead, and more precisely, Tangle Valley Vineyard.
Joey – Josephine – Wilder grew up in Tangle Valley, learning everything about wine on her family’s vineyard. When her dad suddenly dies, she finds herself in charge. Fortunately, she can count on her best friend Madison LeGrange’s help. It so happens Madison is a winemaker extraordinaire, and also knows exactly the right person to make the team complete, her ex and great friend Gabriella Russo. Joey’s life seems brighter with them by her side, and will get even better when she meets sexy Becca Crawford. The only problem is, Becca is the general manager of the luxury resort opening down the road from the vineyard, a resort Joey and other residents of Whisper Wall see as a threat to the charm of their little town.
Melissa Brayden is the queen of banter and flirty dialogue. Her characters are relatable, witty and sweet and I just want to be friends with them. I’m actually glad they don’t exist because I’d be torn between wanting them to talk all day and my need for quiet. Or maybe I could let them chat and go enjoy the quiet among the vines, as Joey used to as a child, knowing there’s happy stuff happening just a few feet away.
Another thing Melissa Brayden excels at is groups of friends. I’ve already listed some of the reasons why her characters are so fantastic, and they get even more fantastic when you put them together. They have this awesome energy that only multiplies in an exquisite way. Entangled is book 1 of the Tangle Valley trilogy that centres around Joey, Gabriella and Madison. Gabriella will get her love story in book 2, Two to Tangle, so logically, Madison should get hers in the last book of the series. I’m very much looking forward to these!
I’m not going to argue that this novel is perfect. It’s not, including a few editing glitches. It is, however, perfectly enjoyable. Ms Brayden knows what she’s doing and she does it well. She makes the reader fall in love with the MCs then breaks them up, tearing the reader’s heart in the process, until the characters realise there’s no resisting fate and get back together, leaving the reader delighted and warm again. I sometimes wish she would take a few risks, but I can’t exactly blame her for playing it safe when this is the result. So yes, it’s another 5*.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Joey – Josephine – Wilder grew up in Tangle Valley, learning everything about wine on her family’s vineyard. When her dad suddenly dies, she finds herself in charge. Fortunately, she can count on her best friend Madison LeGrange’s help. It so happens Madison is a winemaker extraordinaire, and also knows exactly the right person to make the team complete, her ex and great friend Gabriella Russo. Joey’s life seems brighter with them by her side, and will get even better when she meets sexy Becca Crawford. The only problem is, Becca is the general manager of the luxury resort opening down the road from the vineyard, a resort Joey and other residents of Whisper Wall see as a threat to the charm of their little town.
Melissa Brayden is the queen of banter and flirty dialogue. Her characters are relatable, witty and sweet and I just want to be friends with them. I’m actually glad they don’t exist because I’d be torn between wanting them to talk all day and my need for quiet. Or maybe I could let them chat and go enjoy the quiet among the vines, as Joey used to as a child, knowing there’s happy stuff happening just a few feet away.
Another thing Melissa Brayden excels at is groups of friends. I’ve already listed some of the reasons why her characters are so fantastic, and they get even more fantastic when you put them together. They have this awesome energy that only multiplies in an exquisite way. Entangled is book 1 of the Tangle Valley trilogy that centres around Joey, Gabriella and Madison. Gabriella will get her love story in book 2, Two to Tangle, so logically, Madison should get hers in the last book of the series. I’m very much looking forward to these!
I’m not going to argue that this novel is perfect. It’s not, including a few editing glitches. It is, however, perfectly enjoyable. Ms Brayden knows what she’s doing and she does it well. She makes the reader fall in love with the MCs then breaks them up, tearing the reader’s heart in the process, until the characters realise there’s no resisting fate and get back together, leaving the reader delighted and warm again. I sometimes wish she would take a few risks, but I can’t exactly blame her for playing it safe when this is the result. So yes, it’s another 5*.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 19, 2020
As far as Braden's books go, this wasn't a bad one, and I see that reviews are high, which delights me. Ms. Brayden is a talented writer without a doubt. But I found this first-in-a-series just ok, so am sticking with my 3/5. The formula is now tired for me. It's the very same thing over and over again (though, there were no henleys in this one for some reason), so if you want the fluffy cheesy romance with obligatory drama at 70% and not a lotta depth, go forth. This could be your jam.
Mega points for: Kevin the monotone fry guy. I'd say this was the only part of the book I actually chuckled aloud to. Hilarious. I could totally picture being in that fry shop w Kevin. Kevin for the win.
What I found irritating in this one was the tiresome banter, the back and forth "wit" between the friends that just didn't stop. Every conversation had to be another one-up of each other, and it got old. Fast. I like the one liners when appropriate, but all of these women took it too far. I also wish Ms. Brayden would go beyond the surface emotions. MC Joey has had major losses in her life, and the most excruciating heartbreak ever. Yet every time the emotions start to tingle, and my interest piqued thinking "FINALLY! She's going to show us some DEPTH and blow!.... it's written off with a "chin up, per up buttercup, shoulders back, put on a smile" motif. C'mon. Give us some cracks in that psyche, please. Give some angst! Let Joey stew and feel shitty and human. Her friends were also hella intrusive by bringing in her ex at one point of all people, the ultimate betrayer. But of course, the ex has to also be wonderful somehow? I found that part very unbelievable. While I am all for forgiveness and new chapters, sometimes this has to be earned, and I really like flawed characters overall, the good and the bad. The ones in this read were all like maple syrup poured over sugar all over gorgeous valley girls, which = bland.
Will I continue the series? Possibly, mostly for the wine. I love a good Oregon pinot goddamn it. Scratch that, I just love all wine, and am quite glad Ms. Brayden made a foray into this world. Butto continue, gawd do I ever need a break from the constant banter, and more realism and maturity in the characters.
Mega points for: Kevin the monotone fry guy. I'd say this was the only part of the book I actually chuckled aloud to. Hilarious. I could totally picture being in that fry shop w Kevin. Kevin for the win.
What I found irritating in this one was the tiresome banter, the back and forth "wit" between the friends that just didn't stop. Every conversation had to be another one-up of each other, and it got old. Fast. I like the one liners when appropriate, but all of these women took it too far. I also wish Ms. Brayden would go beyond the surface emotions. MC Joey has had major losses in her life, and the most excruciating heartbreak ever. Yet every time the emotions start to tingle, and my interest piqued thinking "FINALLY! She's going to show us some DEPTH and blow!.... it's written off with a "chin up, per up buttercup, shoulders back, put on a smile" motif. C'mon. Give us some cracks in that psyche, please. Give some angst! Let Joey stew and feel shitty and human. Her friends were also hella intrusive by bringing in her ex at one point of all people, the ultimate betrayer. But of course, the ex has to also be wonderful somehow? I found that part very unbelievable. While I am all for forgiveness and new chapters, sometimes this has to be earned, and I really like flawed characters overall, the good and the bad. The ones in this read were all like maple syrup poured over sugar all over gorgeous valley girls, which = bland.
Will I continue the series? Possibly, mostly for the wine. I love a good Oregon pinot goddamn it. Scratch that, I just love all wine, and am quite glad Ms. Brayden made a foray into this world. Butto continue, gawd do I ever need a break from the constant banter, and more realism and maturity in the characters.
February 11, 2021
“Entangled” is a sweet romance between Joey, a winery owner, and Becca, the general manager of a resort that’s going up next door. Many people have also labeled this as an enemies-to-lovers romance but I didn’t really see the “enemies” aspect.
Joey is very much opposed to the resort and what she’s afraid it will mean for a small wine town. Joey and Becca bicker a bit about it but it never goes into the enemy territory for me, which was a little disappointing because I love a good enemies-to-lovers trope. Saying that, this is still an excellent romance that’s definitely worth a read. But it’s a Brayden book so I don’t think there was ever any doubt about that.
This is the first in a trilogy and it spends some time introducing everyone. I also liked how Brayden took the time to really introduce the atmosphere of the town, Whisper Wall, and the people that live there. She’s very descriptive and it was easy to imagine the little shops like the Nifty Nickel and the Bacon and Biscuit Café. The townspeople were quirky and interesting and I’m looking forward to reading more about them.
Joey and Becca were sweet and lovely together, it was very easy to root for them. Joey has recently turned 30 and has a lot going on. She’s dealing with a tough loss and has to take over her family winery. She’s guarded with her heart after past heartbreak but she can’t stay away from Becca. Becca has recently moved to town as the general manager of a new resort that’s being built. She’s dealing with being very lonely in a new town and dealing with the townspeople being unhappy with the resort.
This had a very whimsical feel to me. It’s filled with lots of flirty and witty banter that I feel like is a staple of all Brayden books. There is some angst but everything felt natural. Nothing felt forced or there for the sake of drama.
Now on to Gabriella's story!
Joey is very much opposed to the resort and what she’s afraid it will mean for a small wine town. Joey and Becca bicker a bit about it but it never goes into the enemy territory for me, which was a little disappointing because I love a good enemies-to-lovers trope. Saying that, this is still an excellent romance that’s definitely worth a read. But it’s a Brayden book so I don’t think there was ever any doubt about that.
This is the first in a trilogy and it spends some time introducing everyone. I also liked how Brayden took the time to really introduce the atmosphere of the town, Whisper Wall, and the people that live there. She’s very descriptive and it was easy to imagine the little shops like the Nifty Nickel and the Bacon and Biscuit Café. The townspeople were quirky and interesting and I’m looking forward to reading more about them.
Joey and Becca were sweet and lovely together, it was very easy to root for them. Joey has recently turned 30 and has a lot going on. She’s dealing with a tough loss and has to take over her family winery. She’s guarded with her heart after past heartbreak but she can’t stay away from Becca. Becca has recently moved to town as the general manager of a new resort that’s being built. She’s dealing with being very lonely in a new town and dealing with the townspeople being unhappy with the resort.
This had a very whimsical feel to me. It’s filled with lots of flirty and witty banter that I feel like is a staple of all Brayden books. There is some angst but everything felt natural. Nothing felt forced or there for the sake of drama.
Now on to Gabriella's story!
July 3, 2020
Lovely characters and great setting - can't wait to spend more time here. I love how Melissa's novels always build and build and add another layer and another emotional gotcha and make another tear roll down the cheek.
October 13, 2020
I've liked a lot of Melissa Brayden's books in the past, which is the only reason I finished this book. The story is a mess and the characterization is uncharacteristically weak and frankly, Jo was a huge boo. Still, it's the setup for a series and I hold out hope for the rest.
Indeed, it's a little weird that the setup for the series was one of the few highlights for me because that's usually an intrusion in the first of a series. We meet the two friends that Jo brings in to help revitalize her family vineyard and their interactions and friendship was delightful. The banter and (completely platonic) love for one another was outstanding and very much whetted my appetite for more of them.
I thought that my only problem would be with Jo. And for most of the story that was true. I mean, it's not just that I hate when children take on the mission/life purpose of their parents as Jo does with her father's hatred of The Jade (a high-end resort being built in their smallish community). But she does it with a singular stupidity. I mean, there's literally nothing she can do about it because it went through all the processes and is nearing completion. So being all self-righteous about it in town meetings and stuff is just wasted effort. And her contention that changing things from tradition rings particularly hollow coming from someone busy implementing innovative changes in her own business.
And I thought my only problem with Becca was that Brayden doesn't do business very well. I mean, someone who is good enough to be the new General Manager of what's billed as the flagship of an established corporation should be much better at pointing out that the local suppliers can either help out and accept the offered, very lucrative, partnerships that she's looking for or put up with the resort bringing in national partnerships that make it generically bland the way they all fear. She was very eager to claim that she personally looked forward to going native but she missed every opportunity to show that the resort she was heading up was eager to do the same. Unfortunately, Brayden doubles down on this by having her completely blow the one partnership she actively championed. I mean, she's billed as this mover/shaker and as having worked her way up the corporate chain to where she has the clout to pull in this plumb assignment and she can't make the business case to steer one project the way she wants it to go? I mean, the case was easy and obvious and so simple that every local who hears of it gives her a bullet point list of how to do it.
So Becca's background doesn't work, but at least she was personally engaging. I loved how calm she was in the face of Jo's over-the-top and completely unreasonable initial antagonism (that went on way too long, but whatever). I loved that she was actively making her play for Jo and that she communicated clearly and openly with her. I sometimes wanted her to blow up just because Jo was so hurtful sometimes, but it was consistent and really lovely and I really liked her.
Until the dark moment where she threw all that away and became a complete and inexplicable coward. She's got a hard message to deliver to Jo and not only does she wimp out for over a month but she spills details to Jo's friends and partners before telling Jo about it. And that was so completely out of character that I hate-finished the story from there. I'm not even going to complain about Jo's stupidly nuclear reaction and blowing everything to oblivion. Or the really stupid advice she gets from one of her pals to work on being herself before trying to repair the damaged relationship that obviously meant the world to her. Or how Brayden made Jo's ex-fiancée be the one to provide the final catalyst despite being a non-entity for the rest of the story.
Okay, all those things sucked, too. It was a catastrophic suckfest worthy of the Suck Hall of Fame and I, for one, will completely endorse an entry application should one emerge.
I'm rating this two stars because of the friend setup and Becca really is lovely and the relationship, when it was hitting on all cylinders, was pretty fantastic, really. But seriously, that's a lot of suck to get past despite the good elements.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes, but they aren't very long or detailed. So this is barely the middle of my steam tolerance and stands out as one of the better aspects of this romance.
Indeed, it's a little weird that the setup for the series was one of the few highlights for me because that's usually an intrusion in the first of a series. We meet the two friends that Jo brings in to help revitalize her family vineyard and their interactions and friendship was delightful. The banter and (completely platonic) love for one another was outstanding and very much whetted my appetite for more of them.
I thought that my only problem would be with Jo. And for most of the story that was true. I mean, it's not just that I hate when children take on the mission/life purpose of their parents as Jo does with her father's hatred of The Jade (a high-end resort being built in their smallish community). But she does it with a singular stupidity. I mean, there's literally nothing she can do about it because it went through all the processes and is nearing completion. So being all self-righteous about it in town meetings and stuff is just wasted effort. And her contention that changing things from tradition rings particularly hollow coming from someone busy implementing innovative changes in her own business.
And I thought my only problem with Becca was that Brayden doesn't do business very well. I mean, someone who is good enough to be the new General Manager of what's billed as the flagship of an established corporation should be much better at pointing out that the local suppliers can either help out and accept the offered, very lucrative, partnerships that she's looking for or put up with the resort bringing in national partnerships that make it generically bland the way they all fear. She was very eager to claim that she personally looked forward to going native but she missed every opportunity to show that the resort she was heading up was eager to do the same. Unfortunately, Brayden doubles down on this by having her completely blow the one partnership she actively championed. I mean, she's billed as this mover/shaker and as having worked her way up the corporate chain to where she has the clout to pull in this plumb assignment and she can't make the business case to steer one project the way she wants it to go? I mean, the case was easy and obvious and so simple that every local who hears of it gives her a bullet point list of how to do it.
So Becca's background doesn't work, but at least she was personally engaging. I loved how calm she was in the face of Jo's over-the-top and completely unreasonable initial antagonism (that went on way too long, but whatever). I loved that she was actively making her play for Jo and that she communicated clearly and openly with her. I sometimes wanted her to blow up just because Jo was so hurtful sometimes, but it was consistent and really lovely and I really liked her.
Until the dark moment where she threw all that away and became a complete and inexplicable coward. She's got a hard message to deliver to Jo and not only does she wimp out for over a month but she spills details to Jo's friends and partners before telling Jo about it. And that was so completely out of character that I hate-finished the story from there. I'm not even going to complain about Jo's stupidly nuclear reaction and blowing everything to oblivion. Or the really stupid advice she gets from one of her pals to work on being herself before trying to repair the damaged relationship that obviously meant the world to her. Or how Brayden made Jo's ex-fiancée be the one to provide the final catalyst despite being a non-entity for the rest of the story.
Okay, all those things sucked, too. It was a catastrophic suckfest worthy of the Suck Hall of Fame and I, for one, will completely endorse an entry application should one emerge.
I'm rating this two stars because of the friend setup and Becca really is lovely and the relationship, when it was hitting on all cylinders, was pretty fantastic, really. But seriously, that's a lot of suck to get past despite the good elements.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes, but they aren't very long or detailed. So this is barely the middle of my steam tolerance and stands out as one of the better aspects of this romance.
February 10, 2021
Oh, the witty banter!
This was fun! I’m a sucker for witty banter so imagine my delight when I discovered how much snappy dialogue was in there and how witty it was. I haven’t had this much fun in a long time. I think Brayden does this well and the only author I know who is able to rival this level of wit is Clare Lydon. I love how natural the repartee flows between the main characters and among the secondary characters. This is brilliant because the secondary characters Madison and Gabriella have their own books in the series, so the off the charts friendship chemistry among Madison, Gabriella and Joey effectively cemented my interest in the later books.
This book deserves a shout-out for how likeable the characters are. Brayden did a great job with them, especially with the main character Joey who is the catalyst for bringing everybody together after inheriting the vineyard. Joey is also the only character with issues significant enough for us to bother with and I’m glad this was not used as excuse for self-pity or as a stalling tactic in progressing the relationship. In fact, such a wonderful job was done moving the story forward, I forgot Joey actually had issues until Brayden deliberately had it addressed. Becca, the other main character, deserves a mention too for being such a steadfast character and I really like her, so having them both together was simply a joy.
When it comes to Brayden’s series, I tend to favour one book over the others and I have a feeling that this is the one.
This was fun! I’m a sucker for witty banter so imagine my delight when I discovered how much snappy dialogue was in there and how witty it was. I haven’t had this much fun in a long time. I think Brayden does this well and the only author I know who is able to rival this level of wit is Clare Lydon. I love how natural the repartee flows between the main characters and among the secondary characters. This is brilliant because the secondary characters Madison and Gabriella have their own books in the series, so the off the charts friendship chemistry among Madison, Gabriella and Joey effectively cemented my interest in the later books.
This book deserves a shout-out for how likeable the characters are. Brayden did a great job with them, especially with the main character Joey who is the catalyst for bringing everybody together after inheriting the vineyard. Joey is also the only character with issues significant enough for us to bother with and I’m glad this was not used as excuse for self-pity or as a stalling tactic in progressing the relationship. In fact, such a wonderful job was done moving the story forward, I forgot Joey actually had issues until Brayden deliberately had it addressed. Becca, the other main character, deserves a mention too for being such a steadfast character and I really like her, so having them both together was simply a joy.
When it comes to Brayden’s series, I tend to favour one book over the others and I have a feeling that this is the one.
May 18, 2021
One of Melissa Brayden's strengths is in her ability to write settings you'd wanna crawl inside a book for. The location for the Tangle Valley Series is no different. Aside from the beautiful landmarks, I need to visit these towns where everyone is nice and gay 😆
As the first book in the series, Brayden spent a great amount of time setting up this story. It was a pleasant enough read. The blurb gave me the impression this would be an enemies-to-lovers romance, but after reading it, I really couldn't count it as such.
Unfortunately, I noticed I was pushing myself to love the book—and that's just not a good sign. When the predominant compliment I could give it is, "there's nothing wrong with it," I can't find myself rating a book more than 3 stars.
While I still enjoyed parts of the story, sad to say, Joey and Becca's chemistry didn't pull me in. They were good people, but their tandem lacked spice. There was no excitement for me, and that was disappointing 'cause I thought the plot had a strong beginning.
But even if I wasn't crazy about this book, a lot of great things about Brayden's storytelling remain to be true: the writing is excellent, the characters are likeable, and the conflict is never OTT. I have yet to read a Brayden book that I didn't like, and that says something.
Reading the synopses for the next two books, I have a feeling Madison and Clementine's story would be the most interesting, so I'm excited to get to the third installment. I'm just hoping I'll like the next two books better than this one.
As the first book in the series, Brayden spent a great amount of time setting up this story. It was a pleasant enough read. The blurb gave me the impression this would be an enemies-to-lovers romance, but after reading it, I really couldn't count it as such.
Unfortunately, I noticed I was pushing myself to love the book—and that's just not a good sign. When the predominant compliment I could give it is, "there's nothing wrong with it," I can't find myself rating a book more than 3 stars.
While I still enjoyed parts of the story, sad to say, Joey and Becca's chemistry didn't pull me in. They were good people, but their tandem lacked spice. There was no excitement for me, and that was disappointing 'cause I thought the plot had a strong beginning.
But even if I wasn't crazy about this book, a lot of great things about Brayden's storytelling remain to be true: the writing is excellent, the characters are likeable, and the conflict is never OTT. I have yet to read a Brayden book that I didn't like, and that says something.
Reading the synopses for the next two books, I have a feeling Madison and Clementine's story would be the most interesting, so I'm excited to get to the third installment. I'm just hoping I'll like the next two books better than this one.
July 12, 2020
You can count on Melissa Brayden books that they’ll always deliver. Quality writing, well-built characters, hot chemistry, banter, and lots of witty dialogues. So every time there is a new novel out, my motivation to read it is high. Plus, this is the start of a new series ‘A Tangle Valley Romance’ which is always exciting.
Josephine ‘Joey’ Wilder has inherited her family business, Tangle Valley Vineyard. She has new ideas to improve it but a new luxury hotel, The Jade, is threatening to kill the vineyard rustic charm. Becca Crawford is the manager of said hotel and is adamant to get the hotel to succeed and convince the alluring owner of the vineyard that she’s not the enemy. Will Joey and Becca have a chance together?
This is a very good start to this new series which follows three friends who work together in Tangle Valley Vineyard – Joey, Gabriella and Madison – in search of their romantic relationships. Book one features Joey who has lost a lot in her life and is content to focus on her family’s legacy in the vineyard. That is, until Becca appears in her life and breaks her well-built walls.
As usual, Ms. Brayden did a great characterisation work, making both leads believable and multilayered. One thing I admire about this author is her ability to build powerful chemistry and increasing tension between the main characters until it inevitably explodes with fireworks. These two leads are made for each other and it’s impossible not to root for them and agonize with their relationship woes.
The events that lead to their crisis are believable in the context of the story but my only disappointment is that the ‘grand gesture’ of reconciliation wasn’t as exciting as it’s the norm in Melissa Brayden books. Having said that, ‘Entangled’ is super enjoyable and a very good start to this new series. I can’t wait to see where Ms. Brayden takes these characters next. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
Josephine ‘Joey’ Wilder has inherited her family business, Tangle Valley Vineyard. She has new ideas to improve it but a new luxury hotel, The Jade, is threatening to kill the vineyard rustic charm. Becca Crawford is the manager of said hotel and is adamant to get the hotel to succeed and convince the alluring owner of the vineyard that she’s not the enemy. Will Joey and Becca have a chance together?
This is a very good start to this new series which follows three friends who work together in Tangle Valley Vineyard – Joey, Gabriella and Madison – in search of their romantic relationships. Book one features Joey who has lost a lot in her life and is content to focus on her family’s legacy in the vineyard. That is, until Becca appears in her life and breaks her well-built walls.
As usual, Ms. Brayden did a great characterisation work, making both leads believable and multilayered. One thing I admire about this author is her ability to build powerful chemistry and increasing tension between the main characters until it inevitably explodes with fireworks. These two leads are made for each other and it’s impossible not to root for them and agonize with their relationship woes.
The events that lead to their crisis are believable in the context of the story but my only disappointment is that the ‘grand gesture’ of reconciliation wasn’t as exciting as it’s the norm in Melissa Brayden books. Having said that, ‘Entangled’ is super enjoyable and a very good start to this new series. I can’t wait to see where Ms. Brayden takes these characters next. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
January 20, 2021
Really enjoyed this and drank red wine as I did so (natch). She is good, MB, but slightly formalic and was worried at half way though all was sweetness and light. Poor old Joey, talk about kitchen sink et al!!! Looking forward to the rest of the series.
July 29, 2020
A wonderful story about love and friendship, Melissa Brayden delivers an incredibly enjoyable read in Entangled.
Her father’s passing at the start of the novel forces Joey to make some huge changes at her family vineyard. Sad and stressed, she calls her bestie for help. Madison not only signs on as the new winemaker, she brings reinforcements as well. Chef Gabriella is looking for a change and jumps at the chance to join the crew. This is a friendship that works beautifully for me, and Ms. Brayden writes some great scenes with this trio.
One huge change for Joey is the opening of a new resort in her small town. The gorgeous new GM catches her eye, and Joey has to open her heart to possibilities she’d never imagined for herself.
Moving to a brand new town, Becca is doing her best to establish friendships and become part of the community. Warm and sweet and sunny, Becca proves herself to be a true and loyal friend. Told in alternating points of view we do get to know Becca, but the story is really centered around Joey (which I loved).
Ms. Brayden paints a vivid picture of this small Oregon wine country town. With the colorful townsfolk and stunning vistas, we get a good idea of what life is like for the folks who live there. It sounds absolutely beautiful and I’ve got to say I’d love to visit!
I’m glad to see Gabriella’s going to get the next story. Ryan’s entrance at the end of Entangled certainly is enticing. Hopefully we'll have Madison after that, and I’d love to get Monty and Stephan’s story too someday.
an ARC of Entangled was provided to me by NetGalley for the purpose of my honest review
Her father’s passing at the start of the novel forces Joey to make some huge changes at her family vineyard. Sad and stressed, she calls her bestie for help. Madison not only signs on as the new winemaker, she brings reinforcements as well. Chef Gabriella is looking for a change and jumps at the chance to join the crew. This is a friendship that works beautifully for me, and Ms. Brayden writes some great scenes with this trio.
One huge change for Joey is the opening of a new resort in her small town. The gorgeous new GM catches her eye, and Joey has to open her heart to possibilities she’d never imagined for herself.
Moving to a brand new town, Becca is doing her best to establish friendships and become part of the community. Warm and sweet and sunny, Becca proves herself to be a true and loyal friend. Told in alternating points of view we do get to know Becca, but the story is really centered around Joey (which I loved).
Ms. Brayden paints a vivid picture of this small Oregon wine country town. With the colorful townsfolk and stunning vistas, we get a good idea of what life is like for the folks who live there. It sounds absolutely beautiful and I’ve got to say I’d love to visit!
I’m glad to see Gabriella’s going to get the next story. Ryan’s entrance at the end of Entangled certainly is enticing. Hopefully we'll have Madison after that, and I’d love to get Monty and Stephan’s story too someday.
an ARC of Entangled was provided to me by NetGalley for the purpose of my honest review
July 5, 2020
This book introduces us to the group of women that will star the Tangle Valley series, focusing in Joey and Becca, the owner of a vineyard and the manager of a resort. The characters were wonderful. And I mean all characters, not only the main characters. The small town — Whisper Wall — and its population were wonderful. Everything was wonderful but the story. For me, the storyline seemed to lack excitement, it was rather dull. It was a pity because I'm a fan of Melissa Brayden's works. I've read and enjoyed everything she has written. And of course I'll read all books in this series.
July 6, 2020
This book is book #1 of a new series by Melissa Brayden. I thoroughly enjoyed this. Joey is now in charge of her family's vineyards and winery in small-town Oregon. She's suffered loss that makes her not trust anybody easily. To top things off, a massive hotel/resort is being built close to their land. The people of the town are not happy that this big hotel would come in and change the atmosphere of the town. Becca is the new general manager for the hated hotel. She's moved to this town, wanting a fresh start, hoping to make friends in this cute town. They're attracted to each other. The chemistry is obviously there, but how can Joey date the "enemy"?
If you have read Melissa Brayden's books, then you know there will always be cute moments and wittty banter. Aside from the romance, which I love, the setting is also very appealing. Now, I am not a wine person at all, but I've been to wineries in California and locally here in the Okanagan Valley. So, in my head, that's how I picture the vineyards and the town. I always love stories set in small towns with interesting side characters. And of course, I heard the next books in this series will feature Joey's best friends. I'm hoping this is correct, as I can't wait to see Maddy and Gabriella find their HEA.
**Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!**
If you have read Melissa Brayden's books, then you know there will always be cute moments and wittty banter. Aside from the romance, which I love, the setting is also very appealing. Now, I am not a wine person at all, but I've been to wineries in California and locally here in the Okanagan Valley. So, in my head, that's how I picture the vineyards and the town. I always love stories set in small towns with interesting side characters. And of course, I heard the next books in this series will feature Joey's best friends. I'm hoping this is correct, as I can't wait to see Maddy and Gabriella find their HEA.
**Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!**
June 7, 2021
Tangled Valley Series
Entangled ➟ 3 stars
Two To Tangle ➟ to be read
What A Tangled Web ➟ to be read
Book: Entangled
Rating: 3 stars
Trigger Warning: Loss of a loved one
Summary
Josephine Wilder is taken by surprise when she has to step up and run her family’s Vineyard: Tangled Valley. She grew up surrounded by wine and always knew she would be in charge one day, but she didn’t think it would be so soon. Soon enough she steps up to plate and takes on the challenge with her co-workers, Madison and Gabriella. Becca Crawford is new to Whisper Hall as she moves there to run a new resort property. Unfortunately, not everyone is excited about this including Joey. Joey and Becca have undeniable chemistry, but with their own personal issues and their contradicting viewpoints, is there anyway a relationship will work between them?
Review
This was a cute book! I love Melissa Brayden’s books and writing as, Just Three Words, is one of my favorite books of all time. The Soho Loft series was such a great journey about friends working together, thus reading this made me so happy and nostalgic. Reading about Joey, Madison and Gabriella’s dynamic was fun and captivating! In all, there is always just something so calming and nice about Melissa’s books, she truly writes some of the best sapphic romances.
I enjoyed the romance between Joey and Becca. They were really charming and sweet with each other. They had an amazing attraction and allure to each other! The only thing I didn’t enjoy was Joey, I just didn’t vibe with her. At the beginning, she was so rude to Becca, just because she would be running the Jade Hotel. I understood she didn’t want to have a resort in her small town and change everything, but I didn’t like her attitude. Additionally, the climatic break up at the end was kind of ridiculous -- I skimmed those pages.
Overall, this was an adorable and engaging romance! Just the perfect book to get lost from reality! I can’t wait to read more about these characters in the next book!
Entangled ➟ 3 stars
Two To Tangle ➟ to be read
What A Tangled Web ➟ to be read
Book: Entangled
Rating: 3 stars
Trigger Warning: Loss of a loved one
Summary
Josephine Wilder is taken by surprise when she has to step up and run her family’s Vineyard: Tangled Valley. She grew up surrounded by wine and always knew she would be in charge one day, but she didn’t think it would be so soon. Soon enough she steps up to plate and takes on the challenge with her co-workers, Madison and Gabriella. Becca Crawford is new to Whisper Hall as she moves there to run a new resort property. Unfortunately, not everyone is excited about this including Joey. Joey and Becca have undeniable chemistry, but with their own personal issues and their contradicting viewpoints, is there anyway a relationship will work between them?
Review
Joey touched her lips. “Is that what they call it? Whatever it was…” She shook her head and offered Becca a smile. “We might be mortal enemies, but we sure can—”
“Kiss like we were meant to always kiss.”
This was a cute book! I love Melissa Brayden’s books and writing as, Just Three Words, is one of my favorite books of all time. The Soho Loft series was such a great journey about friends working together, thus reading this made me so happy and nostalgic. Reading about Joey, Madison and Gabriella’s dynamic was fun and captivating! In all, there is always just something so calming and nice about Melissa’s books, she truly writes some of the best sapphic romances.
I enjoyed the romance between Joey and Becca. They were really charming and sweet with each other. They had an amazing attraction and allure to each other! The only thing I didn’t enjoy was Joey, I just didn’t vibe with her. At the beginning, she was so rude to Becca, just because she would be running the Jade Hotel. I understood she didn’t want to have a resort in her small town and change everything, but I didn’t like her attitude. Additionally, the climatic break up at the end was kind of ridiculous -- I skimmed those pages.
Overall, this was an adorable and engaging romance! Just the perfect book to get lost from reality! I can’t wait to read more about these characters in the next book!
“Where should we go now?” Joey asked quietly.
“I don’t know, but I think I’d follow you anywhere.”
March 20, 2021
This book makes me want to buy land and plant some grapes and get my friends in the upkeep of a vineyard. I really liked Becca's character from the get go, so when Joey started behaving like an unreasonable twat towards her, I got really annoyed.
I understood where Joey was coming from as the story progressed though. The whole self-sabotage thing hit close to home. The end of their story gave me the feels, and I look forward to reading more about Sky and his people at Tangle Valley.
I understood where Joey was coming from as the story progressed though. The whole self-sabotage thing hit close to home. The end of their story gave me the feels, and I look forward to reading more about Sky and his people at Tangle Valley.
Read
July 23, 2020I thought this was never going to happen with a Melissa Brayden book, but alas..dnf at 50%. It was boring and the banter between evrybody and their mother was too much!! Evrybody had jokes and one lines. I liked Becca a lot, didn’t feel Joey. Just didn’t feel it and there are to many other books to read. I didn’t rate it but I would give it 2 stars because...I don’t know.
December 3, 2020
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is pretty much vintage Brayden. There’s a super cute couple, Joey, who runs a vineyard, and Becca, who is managing the new hotel that’s about to open in town. Joey does not want said hotel in her town, so is disappointed to discover that her new crush is also the woman in charge of the hotel she doesn’t like. Becca and Joey have instant chemistry, and Becca manages to win Joey over in short order. There’s lots of meet cutes and banter, as you’d expect. This also features Madison, Joey’s long time BFF and Gabrielle, Madison’s ex and good friend. These two come to work at the vineyard with Joey, and will also feature in the other books in the series.
When reading this I kept thinking how much it was like Kiss the Girl and it gets more so as you go along. The requisite drama at the 70% mark was almost an exact replay. This also features the issue I’ve had with Brayden’s books before, the banter wears after awhile and most of the characters talk in the same voice, which is annoying. Brayden also manages some tie ins with other books, and I did like her tongue in cheek reference to the mixed reviews for Back to September.
Joey and Becca are very sweet together and I enjoyed watching them flirt and move through their relationship, even though the last 30% or so kind of dragged. Fans of Brayden will enjoy this, for the most part it’s a nice sweet romance. It’s probably 3.5 stars, but I’m rounding up.
This is pretty much vintage Brayden. There’s a super cute couple, Joey, who runs a vineyard, and Becca, who is managing the new hotel that’s about to open in town. Joey does not want said hotel in her town, so is disappointed to discover that her new crush is also the woman in charge of the hotel she doesn’t like. Becca and Joey have instant chemistry, and Becca manages to win Joey over in short order. There’s lots of meet cutes and banter, as you’d expect. This also features Madison, Joey’s long time BFF and Gabrielle, Madison’s ex and good friend. These two come to work at the vineyard with Joey, and will also feature in the other books in the series.
When reading this I kept thinking how much it was like Kiss the Girl and it gets more so as you go along. The requisite drama at the 70% mark was almost an exact replay. This also features the issue I’ve had with Brayden’s books before, the banter wears after awhile and most of the characters talk in the same voice, which is annoying. Brayden also manages some tie ins with other books, and I did like her tongue in cheek reference to the mixed reviews for Back to September.
Joey and Becca are very sweet together and I enjoyed watching them flirt and move through their relationship, even though the last 30% or so kind of dragged. Fans of Brayden will enjoy this, for the most part it’s a nice sweet romance. It’s probably 3.5 stars, but I’m rounding up.
August 6, 2020
I’m typically a big fan of Melissa Brayden and tend to revisit her books over and over again.
I’d probably drop this to the bottom of my list of Melissa Brayden books but in all fairness, that’s still a solid field to be in.
I truly enjoyed the story but while I devoured her other books, I had to take this one in pieces.
The first reason is the opening scene that sets you up with this very endearing father daughter dynamic,, turns around and breaks your heart before you can blink. The loss resonated close to home for me personally.
The other reason it was tough was primarily the overuse of the zippy banter between all the characters. While I normally love the banter in her other books; it was a little thick in this one.
I think what this writer does really well consistently is tell a story with color and dimension. She creates warm flawed characters that are relatable. Entangled was a good intro into the Tangle Valley series.
I’d probably drop this to the bottom of my list of Melissa Brayden books but in all fairness, that’s still a solid field to be in.
I truly enjoyed the story but while I devoured her other books, I had to take this one in pieces.
The first reason is the opening scene that sets you up with this very endearing father daughter dynamic,, turns around and breaks your heart before you can blink. The loss resonated close to home for me personally.
The other reason it was tough was primarily the overuse of the zippy banter between all the characters. While I normally love the banter in her other books; it was a little thick in this one.
I think what this writer does really well consistently is tell a story with color and dimension. She creates warm flawed characters that are relatable. Entangled was a good intro into the Tangle Valley series.
June 12, 2020
Josephine "Joey" Wilder knew how to manage the tasting room but not the whole Tangle Valley. With this huge responsibility suddenly landed on her, she needed to up her game in business. And that included fighting against the new resort, The Jade, that was bound to ruin every beautiful thing Whisper Wall had.
When Joey met new local Becca Crawford, they struck up an easy conversation that might involved some flirting. But having suffered from public humiliation at the altar in the past, Joey was not fully ready to hand over her trust. Especially not when Becca turned out to be the general manager of evil empire The Jade.
If you thought Brayden's books could not get any better, Entangled would pleasantly surprise you. This new series, A Tangle Valley Romance, reflected Brayden's love of wine. I do not know what it is with wlw romances and wineries, but this series is honestly everything we needed. And I cannot wait for the upcoming sequels.
I love the tone of Entangled, and I can only guess that the rest of the series would follow suit. It was mostly light, funny, and entertaining. Not only were character interactions occasionally yet purposefully comical, the playful banters between friends and romantic pairs had me chuckle more than I could count throughout the reading. I never thought I would enjoy a light-hearted romance so much and would gladly reread it, just to see the wonderful characters again. After sitting through BSB's webinar yesterday, Brayden provided me with fresh eyes on how her series worked and characters interacted. She also stated that her heroines must have a love of food, so there is no doubt that this series would overflow with all kinds of yummy stuff. Yes, I am talking about actual food.
Prior to Entangled, I have read seven of Brayden's books. While I have always enjoyed her works, the story arc of this one fit best to my taste. The misunderstandings between the mains were not too ridiculous, and the climax, aka the fallout, happened at just the right time. Many romances I have read climaxed too late into the story, leaving the couples only a small fraction of the book to scramble to resolution, and I would feel dizzy from being thrashed around in their drama. Entangled did not make me feel that. Yes, I was still a little irritated at some of their interactions, but everything was so well executed I believed that was how things were meant to happen.
Time to rave about the characters. First up, the Tangle Valley Trio. Okay, I named them that. It consisted of Joey, Joey's best friend Madison, and Madison's ex-girlfriend Gabriella. Madison and Gabriella were fun and encouraging and without the drama of being exes. The three of them had the best dynamics ever, incredibly supportive of each other, and I love how everything just seemed so fun when they were all together. The most adorable things they shared was talking to themselves: Madison did out loud circle speak, Gabriella talked to stuff, and Joey processed thoughts aloud. I need to get more of the trio in future books.
As for Joey and Becca, they were a striking pair with palpable and believable chemistry. Joey carried some sorrow that made it hard for her to put her heart on the line. And Becca was kind of an opposite. She always had an air of naiveness around her. I love how they were both very much straightforward with each other, that alone deserved tons of sexy points.
If we were to compare this series with Soho Loft (#1, #2, #3), I would say that Joey and Becca's relationship reminded me of Brooklyn and Jess, with both pairs being somewhat rivals. And Gabriella's charm mirrored Hunter's. Maybe Madison was more of a combination of Sam and Mallory just because she was very organized, obsessed with numbers and being logical and rational. But they were by no means clones and definitely very different people.
I always appreciate books with supporting characters that were more than just one-dimensional. Loretta, whom Joey considered as a second mother, was loving and playful at the same time. Carla, assistant general manager of The Jade, was a wonderful friend in addition to being Becca's potent deputy. I also love the references to previous Brayden books, including department store Carrington's, Parker Bristow's new book, and Loretta's daughter, actress Carly Daniels.
The writing of Entangled was smooth and the words were just as enjoyable as the story. Also, this may be just me, but I loved how nearly none of the characters labeled their sexualities. They just loved and were open to talk about past relationships, regardless of what gender they dated. It was wonderful.
A Tangle Valley Romance is a series to look out for, and its first book, Entangled, undoubtedly brings joy and guarantees some laughter along the way.
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Joey met new local Becca Crawford, they struck up an easy conversation that might involved some flirting. But having suffered from public humiliation at the altar in the past, Joey was not fully ready to hand over her trust. Especially not when Becca turned out to be the general manager of evil empire The Jade.
If you thought Brayden's books could not get any better, Entangled would pleasantly surprise you. This new series, A Tangle Valley Romance, reflected Brayden's love of wine. I do not know what it is with wlw romances and wineries, but this series is honestly everything we needed. And I cannot wait for the upcoming sequels.
I love the tone of Entangled, and I can only guess that the rest of the series would follow suit. It was mostly light, funny, and entertaining. Not only were character interactions occasionally yet purposefully comical, the playful banters between friends and romantic pairs had me chuckle more than I could count throughout the reading. I never thought I would enjoy a light-hearted romance so much and would gladly reread it, just to see the wonderful characters again. After sitting through BSB's webinar yesterday, Brayden provided me with fresh eyes on how her series worked and characters interacted. She also stated that her heroines must have a love of food, so there is no doubt that this series would overflow with all kinds of yummy stuff. Yes, I am talking about actual food.
Prior to Entangled, I have read seven of Brayden's books. While I have always enjoyed her works, the story arc of this one fit best to my taste. The misunderstandings between the mains were not too ridiculous, and the climax, aka the fallout, happened at just the right time. Many romances I have read climaxed too late into the story, leaving the couples only a small fraction of the book to scramble to resolution, and I would feel dizzy from being thrashed around in their drama. Entangled did not make me feel that. Yes, I was still a little irritated at some of their interactions, but everything was so well executed I believed that was how things were meant to happen.
Time to rave about the characters. First up, the Tangle Valley Trio. Okay, I named them that. It consisted of Joey, Joey's best friend Madison, and Madison's ex-girlfriend Gabriella. Madison and Gabriella were fun and encouraging and without the drama of being exes. The three of them had the best dynamics ever, incredibly supportive of each other, and I love how everything just seemed so fun when they were all together. The most adorable things they shared was talking to themselves: Madison did out loud circle speak, Gabriella talked to stuff, and Joey processed thoughts aloud. I need to get more of the trio in future books.
As for Joey and Becca, they were a striking pair with palpable and believable chemistry. Joey carried some sorrow that made it hard for her to put her heart on the line. And Becca was kind of an opposite. She always had an air of naiveness around her. I love how they were both very much straightforward with each other, that alone deserved tons of sexy points.
If we were to compare this series with Soho Loft (#1, #2, #3), I would say that Joey and Becca's relationship reminded me of Brooklyn and Jess, with both pairs being somewhat rivals. And Gabriella's charm mirrored Hunter's. Maybe Madison was more of a combination of Sam and Mallory just because she was very organized, obsessed with numbers and being logical and rational. But they were by no means clones and definitely very different people.
I always appreciate books with supporting characters that were more than just one-dimensional. Loretta, whom Joey considered as a second mother, was loving and playful at the same time. Carla, assistant general manager of The Jade, was a wonderful friend in addition to being Becca's potent deputy. I also love the references to previous Brayden books, including department store Carrington's, Parker Bristow's new book, and Loretta's daughter, actress Carly Daniels.
The writing of Entangled was smooth and the words were just as enjoyable as the story. Also, this may be just me, but I loved how nearly none of the characters labeled their sexualities. They just loved and were open to talk about past relationships, regardless of what gender they dated. It was wonderful.
A Tangle Valley Romance is a series to look out for, and its first book, Entangled, undoubtedly brings joy and guarantees some laughter along the way.
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2020
I really enjoy the Seven Shores series, and had been reluctant to start any other Brayden works until I managed to read the last book, but in anticipation of Two to Tangle being released I wanted to make sure I read Entangled and I'm so glad I did as it came along at just the right time.
At its core it's a sweet enemies to lovers romance. Joey inherits the Tangle Valley vineyard and decides to make all the changes she's been wishing for ages. This brings her best friend Madison back to Tangle Valley as the head vintner and Madison's amazing chef ex Gabriella in tow. Becca runs the new resort in town, a resort Joey is vehemently against.
What ensues is stories of friendship and fun, whilst Joey and Becca work both at their relationship and their respective businesses. I liked the push-pull tension between Joey and Becca and found the angst to be done well. The way Brayden sets the scene of the town and the vineyard gave me a really nice feeling with regards to the small town feel.
I loved all of the secondary characters and am really looking forward to the next instalment in the series. There are a few other characters who also play a part, and how they fit into Joey's life works really well.
I'd highly recommend this to all romance fans, and if you're fan of Brayden and haven't read this yet - go for it.
At its core it's a sweet enemies to lovers romance. Joey inherits the Tangle Valley vineyard and decides to make all the changes she's been wishing for ages. This brings her best friend Madison back to Tangle Valley as the head vintner and Madison's amazing chef ex Gabriella in tow. Becca runs the new resort in town, a resort Joey is vehemently against.
What ensues is stories of friendship and fun, whilst Joey and Becca work both at their relationship and their respective businesses. I liked the push-pull tension between Joey and Becca and found the angst to be done well. The way Brayden sets the scene of the town and the vineyard gave me a really nice feeling with regards to the small town feel.
I loved all of the secondary characters and am really looking forward to the next instalment in the series. There are a few other characters who also play a part, and how they fit into Joey's life works really well.
I'd highly recommend this to all romance fans, and if you're fan of Brayden and haven't read this yet - go for it.
July 7, 2020
I was really excited for this series. For me Brayden is the queen of small town romance. Setting it in a wine country makes it even more appealing.
It’s the kind of book that I want to bring with me when I travel. The kind that I don’t want to rush, like I wanna ration every chapter. It’s the kind that I want to gift to a friend to cheer them up. The setting, the characters, the plot—it’s a feel-good kinda romance with enough angst to keep you spiced up. I wanted to throughly enjoy each feeling it evoked, even the sad ones. Witty dialogues are Brayden’s trademark so you can expect it here. And I really like how she can make simple phrases more fun to read, make them less cliched.
Brayden made Joey’s pain palpable without overly doing it. Just enough to make you sympathize and understand her motivations, which I truly get.
Perhaps the only thing that I disliked about this book was Simone and her selfish arse. I dunno I just can’t forgive her. 😅 (I’d take Skywalker to woof some sense into Joey over Simone.)
This is another gourmet writing from Brayden. And if you read this be sure to have access to wine, unlike me (so imagine the torture).
5 stars
It’s the kind of book that I want to bring with me when I travel. The kind that I don’t want to rush, like I wanna ration every chapter. It’s the kind that I want to gift to a friend to cheer them up. The setting, the characters, the plot—it’s a feel-good kinda romance with enough angst to keep you spiced up. I wanted to throughly enjoy each feeling it evoked, even the sad ones. Witty dialogues are Brayden’s trademark so you can expect it here. And I really like how she can make simple phrases more fun to read, make them less cliched.
Brayden made Joey’s pain palpable without overly doing it. Just enough to make you sympathize and understand her motivations, which I truly get.
Perhaps the only thing that I disliked about this book was Simone and her selfish arse. I dunno I just can’t forgive her. 😅 (I’d take Skywalker to woof some sense into Joey over Simone.)
This is another gourmet writing from Brayden. And if you read this be sure to have access to wine, unlike me (so imagine the torture).
5 stars
June 24, 2020
Talk about grabbing your interest at the beginning of a book! It’s a pretty good indication that the author has done just that when they can make you cry while reading the Prologue. That is exactly what happened to me as I began to read Entangled by Melissa Brayden.
This novel is the beginning of a new romance series set in Oregon’s wine country. In this book you meet the three women the series will follow, and we have the first of the romances with Josephine “Joey” Wilder and Becca Crawford. These two characters end up with an enemies-to-lovers tale since Joey is totally against the new resort opening up next door to her winery. Unfortunately, the general manager of The Jade, the new resort next door is Becca. This leads to lots of romance and attraction with the addition of misunderstandings and conflict.
This is a really well-written romance. The characters are very likeable, down to earth, and easy to fall in love with. The setting is absolutely gorgeous. The romance is captivating. It does have some angst running through the tale (obviously since I was crying before Chapter One), but the overall story is uplifting and joyous. To me it ends up being a feel-good story. And of course there is a dog, which always adds to the good vibes.
Ms. Brayden has a definite winner with this first book of the new series, and I can’t wait to read the next one. If you love a great enemies-to-lovers, feel-good romance, then this is the book for you.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
This novel is the beginning of a new romance series set in Oregon’s wine country. In this book you meet the three women the series will follow, and we have the first of the romances with Josephine “Joey” Wilder and Becca Crawford. These two characters end up with an enemies-to-lovers tale since Joey is totally against the new resort opening up next door to her winery. Unfortunately, the general manager of The Jade, the new resort next door is Becca. This leads to lots of romance and attraction with the addition of misunderstandings and conflict.
This is a really well-written romance. The characters are very likeable, down to earth, and easy to fall in love with. The setting is absolutely gorgeous. The romance is captivating. It does have some angst running through the tale (obviously since I was crying before Chapter One), but the overall story is uplifting and joyous. To me it ends up being a feel-good story. And of course there is a dog, which always adds to the good vibes.
Ms. Brayden has a definite winner with this first book of the new series, and I can’t wait to read the next one. If you love a great enemies-to-lovers, feel-good romance, then this is the book for you.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
April 1, 2021
4 Stars - Looking forward to reading more in this series
Nice characters, a bit of non-relationship drama to spice things up. the Angst did not annoy me. Introduced to side characters that are interesting and pulled me into wanting to read their stories as well. Living on a vineyard sounds lovely. Cheers! 🍷🍇🧀
Nice characters, a bit of non-relationship drama to spice things up. the Angst did not annoy me. Introduced to side characters that are interesting and pulled me into wanting to read their stories as well. Living on a vineyard sounds lovely. Cheers! 🍷🍇🧀
March 13, 2021
No full review for this one, but I was amused with the multiple references to hands on hips - I had to laugh every time I heard it. Maybe that’s just a thing with audiobooks that little quirks like that become noticeable?
Anyway, a solid 4 stars. I will likely read the next 2 books rather than listen to them, I’m afraid.
Anyway, a solid 4 stars. I will likely read the next 2 books rather than listen to them, I’m afraid.
July 17, 2020
Wow....just...Wow! Now I have to try to put into words what I mean. This was a great story. Thank goodness it's just the beginning of the Tangle Valley Romance series, because I want to spend more time with these ladies, the winery, the Resort and everything that makes up the town.
The characters are so colorful, likeable and interesting. Madison, the wine maker, and Gabriella, the chef are a wonderful addition. And hopefully the stars of the following books. The winery seems like a character also. Brayden describes it like a wonderful painting and somewhere you would love to walk among the vines.
Of course, the romance was wonderful also. Becca and Joey are so cute together. And their conversations were clever, warm, humorous and loving. Really enjoyable characters. The attraction was immediate and I realized I had only finished half the book? So where do we go from here? Well....There is a lot of story left to cover. There's more lovin, friendships, tragedies and resolutions to come. And a full and complete ending. So many times I am left wanting one more chapter at the end of a story, but this one was just perfect. Yet I will be anxiously waiting for book number 2.
5 stars...It doesn't get any better than this.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The characters are so colorful, likeable and interesting. Madison, the wine maker, and Gabriella, the chef are a wonderful addition. And hopefully the stars of the following books. The winery seems like a character also. Brayden describes it like a wonderful painting and somewhere you would love to walk among the vines.
Of course, the romance was wonderful also. Becca and Joey are so cute together. And their conversations were clever, warm, humorous and loving. Really enjoyable characters. The attraction was immediate and I realized I had only finished half the book? So where do we go from here? Well....There is a lot of story left to cover. There's more lovin, friendships, tragedies and resolutions to come. And a full and complete ending. So many times I am left wanting one more chapter at the end of a story, but this one was just perfect. Yet I will be anxiously waiting for book number 2.
5 stars...It doesn't get any better than this.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2020
Another wonderful Brayden book! It’s not the most surprising book, but a solid, sweet romance set at the Tangle Valley winery. Like her other series, it involves a group of friends, each looking for that one special person (or not, but getting it anyway) and a lot of witty and flirty dialogues, what more do you need?
The group consists of Joey, Gabriella and Madison. This book is all about Joey, she grew up on Tangle Valley and she and Madison have been friends since childhood. Madison doesn’t live in Whisper Wall anymore, but when Joey needs help at the Tangle Valley winery Madison comes back to town and also brings Gabriella, her ex and good friend to help out. The three of them immediately form a close group of friends and are ready to further the success of Tangle Valley.
The only problem is the horrific resort (the evil empire) that is going up across the road, threatening to destroy everything that their quaint little village stands for. Until Joey meets the general manager, Becca, that is. How do you fight a resort when the manager is so damn sexy?
I loved the town and its inhabitants, for instance, the gossiping old ladies were exactly what I would expect in a little town. Then there is Tangle Valley, I want to go there and drink wine! The love for wine and food is evident and makes your mouth water. The atmosphere is excellent. The romance starts of at insta-like, which I didn’t expect, I thought this book would be more of an enemies to lovers kind of book. However, it is sweet and sexy with good chemistry and it is totally believable. The plot has a bit of angst in it and even though you know they are going towards a HEA, I was rooting for them to be okay nonetheless.
The only thing that I had to adjust to in the book was the start of the friendship between the three. I think I’m the odd one out here, so perhaps you should not take me too seriously, but I though the start of their group friendship felt a little bit forced, with all the use of catchy word jokes. I know this is Brayden’s specialty, and I’m sure a lot of people loved it and didn’t mind at all, but these are people that either haven’t seen each other for a long time or even just met. To me, it was as if Brayden wanted to create this atmosphere of a really close group of friends that know each other for years and finish each other’s sentences a little too fast. Later on in the book though, it felt more natural and I look forward to reading the other parts in the series.
Overall, this is a book that gives you warm and fuzzy feelings. It’s an excellent book for romance fans and if you’re a Brayden fan, chances are that you have already read it, if not, go read it :-)
The group consists of Joey, Gabriella and Madison. This book is all about Joey, she grew up on Tangle Valley and she and Madison have been friends since childhood. Madison doesn’t live in Whisper Wall anymore, but when Joey needs help at the Tangle Valley winery Madison comes back to town and also brings Gabriella, her ex and good friend to help out. The three of them immediately form a close group of friends and are ready to further the success of Tangle Valley.
The only problem is the horrific resort (the evil empire) that is going up across the road, threatening to destroy everything that their quaint little village stands for. Until Joey meets the general manager, Becca, that is. How do you fight a resort when the manager is so damn sexy?
I loved the town and its inhabitants, for instance, the gossiping old ladies were exactly what I would expect in a little town. Then there is Tangle Valley, I want to go there and drink wine! The love for wine and food is evident and makes your mouth water. The atmosphere is excellent. The romance starts of at insta-like, which I didn’t expect, I thought this book would be more of an enemies to lovers kind of book. However, it is sweet and sexy with good chemistry and it is totally believable. The plot has a bit of angst in it and even though you know they are going towards a HEA, I was rooting for them to be okay nonetheless.
The only thing that I had to adjust to in the book was the start of the friendship between the three. I think I’m the odd one out here, so perhaps you should not take me too seriously, but I though the start of their group friendship felt a little bit forced, with all the use of catchy word jokes. I know this is Brayden’s specialty, and I’m sure a lot of people loved it and didn’t mind at all, but these are people that either haven’t seen each other for a long time or even just met. To me, it was as if Brayden wanted to create this atmosphere of a really close group of friends that know each other for years and finish each other’s sentences a little too fast. Later on in the book though, it felt more natural and I look forward to reading the other parts in the series.
Overall, this is a book that gives you warm and fuzzy feelings. It’s an excellent book for romance fans and if you’re a Brayden fan, chances are that you have already read it, if not, go read it :-)
July 19, 2020
I think Brayden does her best work when her story is based on a group of friends. Entangled the first book of a friends series has everything that you would hope for when reading a book by Melissa Brayden, always, always likable characters with fun and playful banter. The characters will face their challenges but the book never gets too dark which I appreciate knowing that I can pick up a book from Brayden and get a really good, fun and sweet romance.
I think the only thing I can note is that what I am finding is that each book does seem to have the same thing but with a different background in some regards. I am finding I'm a little less excited by her books and am less likely to re-read the way I did with her earlier books (and still do). I think this is why when I would normally rate her books at a 5 star I'm finding they are sliding to a 4 star. There is a positive in having a consistent author who I know what I can get when I read the book but does take a little bit of the excitement out of the read because it doesn't seem new almost.
In saying all that, I would highly recommend the read and hope you all enjoy the always warm and fuzzy fun read that Melissa Brayden takes us on.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I think the only thing I can note is that what I am finding is that each book does seem to have the same thing but with a different background in some regards. I am finding I'm a little less excited by her books and am less likely to re-read the way I did with her earlier books (and still do). I think this is why when I would normally rate her books at a 5 star I'm finding they are sliding to a 4 star. There is a positive in having a consistent author who I know what I can get when I read the book but does take a little bit of the excitement out of the read because it doesn't seem new almost.
In saying all that, I would highly recommend the read and hope you all enjoy the always warm and fuzzy fun read that Melissa Brayden takes us on.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
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