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Single Moms, Second Chances #1
Girls Night
Seeking A Boyfriend
Must Have Big Feet
All Jillene McDermott needs is a little breathing room, and the only place she can find it is in the bathtub. Her coffee bar, Java the Hut, is on life support, and raising two daughters alone is a full-time job, so quiet moments in the tub are a rare treat.
Knowing their mom deserves some happiness, Jillene's daughters, Claire and Faye, write her a personal ad. But their good intentions go wrong and Vince Tremonti, the town's most famous son, has to step in as Jillene's "boyfriend."
Vince is a crime writer who is back in Blue Heron Beach to rethink the grim reality of his career, and he can't afford to get involved with anyone, much less a young widow with a ready-made family.
But thrown together, the two can't deny the mutual attraction and they realize there is more between them than a summer fling. Suddenly, lattes are not the only thing steaming in Blue Heron Beach.
Must Have Big Feet
All Jillene McDermott needs is a little breathing room, and the only place she can find it is in the bathtub. Her coffee bar, Java the Hut, is on life support, and raising two daughters alone is a full-time job, so quiet moments in the tub are a rare treat.
Knowing their mom deserves some happiness, Jillene's daughters, Claire and Faye, write her a personal ad. But their good intentions go wrong and Vince Tremonti, the town's most famous son, has to step in as Jillene's "boyfriend."
Vince is a crime writer who is back in Blue Heron Beach to rethink the grim reality of his career, and he can't afford to get involved with anyone, much less a young widow with a ready-made family.
But thrown together, the two can't deny the mutual attraction and they realize there is more between them than a summer fling. Suddenly, lattes are not the only thing steaming in Blue Heron Beach.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 1, 2002
25 people are currently reading
442 people want to read
About the author
Stef Ann Holm
41 books64 followersStef Ann Holm was born in Southern California near Hollywood. With the fantasy worlds of Disneyland and Universal Studios at her doorstep, her imagination was stimulated at an early age. She attended Chatsworth High where Kevin Spacey, Mare Winningham and Val Kilmer entertained on the school's stage. As a semester elective, Stef Ann enrolled in drama and played a Fandango hostess in the chorus of Sweet Charity. It was the beginning and the end of her acting and singing career. She got a "C" in Drama and an "A" in Creative Writing.
She sold her first romance in 1987. While waiting for a load of laundry to complete at the laundromat, Stef Ann made up the name for her heroine, Camry, when she saw a Toyota Camry parked outside in the lot. Who knew that model would end up being so popular, making her in-depth research seem so shallow. Stef Ann has had twenty-three novels and one novella published. Her editor calls her contemporary romances, "Slices of life stories about real people."
Stef Ann lives in Boise, Idaho with her husband, extended family and beloved Beagle.
She sold her first romance in 1987. While waiting for a load of laundry to complete at the laundromat, Stef Ann made up the name for her heroine, Camry, when she saw a Toyota Camry parked outside in the lot. Who knew that model would end up being so popular, making her in-depth research seem so shallow. Stef Ann has had twenty-three novels and one novella published. Her editor calls her contemporary romances, "Slices of life stories about real people."
Stef Ann lives in Boise, Idaho with her husband, extended family and beloved Beagle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 22, 2010
3.5 stars
This is one of the few contemporaries I've read, and it was cute.
A widowed mom of two tween girls runs her late hubby's coffee shop, renames it Java the Hut lol, and meets up with town's favorite boy.
Vince is a true crime novelist who came home and couldn't resist Jillene or her coffee. Her two girls put out a personal ad for their mom, but it was done from the standpoint of kids...and hysterical! They ended up with foot fetish guys calling, and Jillene had no clue as to why all these pervs were calling her about feet!
Vince helped her out there a bit, and it was sweet to see a mom, with kids, have a romance with the town hottie :)
Cute read
This is one of the few contemporaries I've read, and it was cute.
A widowed mom of two tween girls runs her late hubby's coffee shop, renames it Java the Hut lol, and meets up with town's favorite boy.
Vince is a true crime novelist who came home and couldn't resist Jillene or her coffee. Her two girls put out a personal ad for their mom, but it was done from the standpoint of kids...and hysterical! They ended up with foot fetish guys calling, and Jillene had no clue as to why all these pervs were calling her about feet!
Vince helped her out there a bit, and it was sweet to see a mom, with kids, have a romance with the town hottie :)
Cute read
October 17, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for Wicked Reads.
Girls’ night is about single mom Jillene trying to balance her life after the loss of her husband. She’s trying to make ends meet with two pre-teen daughters, a mortgage, and a coffee shop with a ton of expenses. Author Vince is from the same town she lives in and he returns to it when his crime research takes a nasty turn. Jillene and Vince meet and have a nice chemistry full of sexual tension.
This book was a bit slow for me. It wasn’t bad, but it took more effort for me to read than I had expected it to. I liked Jillene and Vince’s chemistry. I think the romance with Vince’s father was cute, but kind of sidetracked from the main plot. I liked the crime/suspense subplot, but it seemed a little underdeveloped in the end. By the time I finished I kind of knew what was going to happen. Overall it was an okay read, but I’m not sure it quite lived up to its potential.
Girls’ night is about single mom Jillene trying to balance her life after the loss of her husband. She’s trying to make ends meet with two pre-teen daughters, a mortgage, and a coffee shop with a ton of expenses. Author Vince is from the same town she lives in and he returns to it when his crime research takes a nasty turn. Jillene and Vince meet and have a nice chemistry full of sexual tension.
This book was a bit slow for me. It wasn’t bad, but it took more effort for me to read than I had expected it to. I liked Jillene and Vince’s chemistry. I think the romance with Vince’s father was cute, but kind of sidetracked from the main plot. I liked the crime/suspense subplot, but it seemed a little underdeveloped in the end. By the time I finished I kind of knew what was going to happen. Overall it was an okay read, but I’m not sure it quite lived up to its potential.
August 5, 2016
This author has no grasp on writing her characters to reflect their ages. For example, the tween daughters can’t wait to get into the bathtub with their mom. Really? I’ve never met kids of that age who are excited about sharing bath time. Frankly, I don’t know of any kids of that age that would ever even share baths, much less share a bath with their mom. Has this author ever met tweens? Super creepy scene.
Likewise, the hero and heroine spend ages lamenting about the good old days before the crazy bra burning weirdos took over the world. The heroine is supposed to be in her thirties, far too young to be lamenting about how crazy the world has become. Also, according to the author’s own time frame, the heroine would have been too young to have first-hand knowledge of any of the stuff that happened in the 60s. What a mess.
Likewise, the hero and heroine spend ages lamenting about the good old days before the crazy bra burning weirdos took over the world. The heroine is supposed to be in her thirties, far too young to be lamenting about how crazy the world has become. Also, according to the author’s own time frame, the heroine would have been too young to have first-hand knowledge of any of the stuff that happened in the 60s. What a mess.
August 7, 2019
Jillene McDermott's husband died a couple of years ago leaving her with two daughters, a coffee shop on an island in the NW in Blue Heron Beach, and a mountain of debt. She's desperately trying to make it all work. When Vince Tremonti - famous true crime writer and son of the local barber unexpectedly arrives back in Blue Heron, the sparks fly. However, he's having a major writing crisis. Another ex-cop deliberately killed 12 women and then let himself get caught so Vince could write a book about him and make him famous. Vince is under pressure from his editor to get it written, but they don't know all the facts and Vince doesn't like the situation he's in. That affects his potential relationship with Jillene.
Eventually all works out - even the secondary romance of his dad with a local widow he's loved for years. Good story.
Eventually all works out - even the secondary romance of his dad with a local widow he's loved for years. Good story.
June 24, 2024
This book was pretty standard romance, but the characters were generally relatable and overall there was good chemistry between Jillene and Vince. The side story of Al and Ianella was very sweet. The subplot of the crime fiction tension was o.k., but somewhat underdeveloped. Overall, an enjoyable summer read, but not something that I plan to revisit.
October 1, 2019
I enjoyed this book very much.
February 12, 2023
Pretty standard romance. The side story line of Al and Isabelle is an actually a more fun romance then Jillene and Vince.
November 21, 2023
Was a good book
May 21, 2019
Jillene McDermott is a widow with two daughters and her coffee shop business is in serious trouble. Jillene is facing bankruptcy and she has no private life. Her daughters decide to help her start dating by placing an ad in the personals section of the newspaper.
Meantime, Vince Tremonti, a local citizen who grew up and became a true crime writer, is facing the most serious problem in his career with a murderer who killed to get Vince's attention. Vince decides to go home to see his father and get away from a book deal that has gone sour.
The book is typical Stef Ann Holm, interesting and a page-turner.
Meantime, Vince Tremonti, a local citizen who grew up and became a true crime writer, is facing the most serious problem in his career with a murderer who killed to get Vince's attention. Vince decides to go home to see his father and get away from a book deal that has gone sour.
The book is typical Stef Ann Holm, interesting and a page-turner.
May 16, 2016
I received my copy of this eBook in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Girls Night was a decent distraction, fairly quick and honestly predictable yet sweet at the same time.
Jillene McDermott is a young widow with two precocious matchmaking preteen daughters, a faithful dog, and the proud owner of her late husband's floundering coffee shop and a mountain of debt. Vince Tremonti is a True Crime Author who's come home to escape the feelings of guilt that are plaguing him about his current tale. How they come together - first by chance and then an impromptu dinner by the matchmaking daughters - was sweet, yet predictable in this Small Town Romance all about (like the series titles) a second chance. This, to me as a single mom, sounded like it was going to be a great read! I can't relate to the widow aspect, but I can relate to a mom who has to try to find a way to make ends meet sometimes eating PB&J as a staple and definitely trying to stretch every last penny. Unfortunately, I just couldn't relate to her children...
Can you tell me what preteen wants to share a bath? With their mother or otherwise? Cause I don't know of any. In fact, that was the age where I remember becoming more and more secretive and less willing to share anything myself. They all at once seemed too old and too young to be whom Stef Ann Holm was trying to portray them to be.
Actually everyone in this novel was kind of conflicting to me - they just didn't fit their ages, but then, I also had to take in to account that there was a lot going (romance wise) with the subplot of Al Tremonti (Vince's father) and Ianella Sofrone. Sometimes I think you could almost pick father for son and change the names and their impressions on life and the world around them would have been similar. I think this also comes from the year in the book. - 2002. Every pop culture reference was hugely dated! I think that was part of the downfall to the test of time for it.
Too much going on, too dated, characters whose behaviours were incongruous to their ages... I really wanted to love this, but the tale wound up being mediocre. The blurb in the back for the next in the series felt a little better, maybe I will check that one out and see if the characterization is improved. I'm not giving up on the author - I'm pretty sure I've read something else of her's and enjoyed it, this one just didn't hit the mark for me.
3 stars for a quick distraction that was cute regardless of its flaws.
Girls Night was a decent distraction, fairly quick and honestly predictable yet sweet at the same time.
Jillene McDermott is a young widow with two precocious matchmaking preteen daughters, a faithful dog, and the proud owner of her late husband's floundering coffee shop and a mountain of debt. Vince Tremonti is a True Crime Author who's come home to escape the feelings of guilt that are plaguing him about his current tale. How they come together - first by chance and then an impromptu dinner by the matchmaking daughters - was sweet, yet predictable in this Small Town Romance all about (like the series titles) a second chance. This, to me as a single mom, sounded like it was going to be a great read! I can't relate to the widow aspect, but I can relate to a mom who has to try to find a way to make ends meet sometimes eating PB&J as a staple and definitely trying to stretch every last penny. Unfortunately, I just couldn't relate to her children...
Can you tell me what preteen wants to share a bath? With their mother or otherwise? Cause I don't know of any. In fact, that was the age where I remember becoming more and more secretive and less willing to share anything myself. They all at once seemed too old and too young to be whom Stef Ann Holm was trying to portray them to be.
Actually everyone in this novel was kind of conflicting to me - they just didn't fit their ages, but then, I also had to take in to account that there was a lot going (romance wise) with the subplot of Al Tremonti (Vince's father) and Ianella Sofrone. Sometimes I think you could almost pick father for son and change the names and their impressions on life and the world around them would have been similar. I think this also comes from the year in the book. - 2002. Every pop culture reference was hugely dated! I think that was part of the downfall to the test of time for it.
Too much going on, too dated, characters whose behaviours were incongruous to their ages... I really wanted to love this, but the tale wound up being mediocre. The blurb in the back for the next in the series felt a little better, maybe I will check that one out and see if the characterization is improved. I'm not giving up on the author - I'm pretty sure I've read something else of her's and enjoyed it, this one just didn't hit the mark for me.
3 stars for a quick distraction that was cute regardless of its flaws.
September 24, 2011
The book has its own appeal. I could say that Steff Ann Holm creates the pictures and scenery more pronounced. She definitely did a great job. It's a good story for a widowed or anyone who has lost his/her hope because the novel tells a story about a girl named, Jillene McDermott who has become a widow for 6 years, has been having a hard time making Coffee time turned Java the Hut-the business her late husband left-successful, and has 2 daughters-Claire and Faye-to take care of. And a guy named, Vince Tremonti who was a writer that has been bothered by a serial killer in the name of Samuel Lentz-who wants him to write about how he killed those twelve women and make him famous, and has nobody loving him except his Pops, Al Tremonti.
However, I think it's weird that you will always bumped to the same person in a town in a single day. Or not in a single day. Maybe it was about destiny and fate that has made the two meet each other a lot of times. I was thrilled with how Holm made Vince not the most perfect guy because he was just any other guy, who needs sexual pleasure, but made him perfect in other ways. Holm described him as a very normal guy who has an extraordinary life.
It's a good thing Holm created the novel with the third person's view. So that the reader would know what's on each other's thought, although sometimes it's confusing.
Well, it's not just about Jillene and Vince because Vince's pop, Al-a widowed, too-has his own love story with Ianella Sofrone who has been widowed with her 2 sons and she also had grandchildren.
So all in all, there's Jillene and Vince having a summer "fling". Claire(12 y/o) and Faye(10 y/o) who wanted their mom to remarried and have a dad to call again. Al and Ianella who have had the same feelings for each other and got married. Hannah(Jillene's assistant in Java) and Glenn who have a weird relationship, but they're not important. Connie Duluth-recently Ronco.
The story was just great :D
Thumbs-up for Steff Ann Holm
However, I think it's weird that you will always bumped to the same person in a town in a single day. Or not in a single day. Maybe it was about destiny and fate that has made the two meet each other a lot of times. I was thrilled with how Holm made Vince not the most perfect guy because he was just any other guy, who needs sexual pleasure, but made him perfect in other ways. Holm described him as a very normal guy who has an extraordinary life.
It's a good thing Holm created the novel with the third person's view. So that the reader would know what's on each other's thought, although sometimes it's confusing.
Well, it's not just about Jillene and Vince because Vince's pop, Al-a widowed, too-has his own love story with Ianella Sofrone who has been widowed with her 2 sons and she also had grandchildren.
So all in all, there's Jillene and Vince having a summer "fling". Claire(12 y/o) and Faye(10 y/o) who wanted their mom to remarried and have a dad to call again. Al and Ianella who have had the same feelings for each other and got married. Hannah(Jillene's assistant in Java) and Glenn who have a weird relationship, but they're not important. Connie Duluth-recently Ronco.
The story was just great :D
Thumbs-up for Steff Ann Holm
June 30, 2017
Girl's Night (Single Moms, Second Chances Series, Book 1) was my first read from Stef Ann Holm and I enjoyed it. I am a prolific reader and like many different genres, and I would be glad to read another Stef Ann Holm book. I really liked the humor in Girl's Night especially when it dealt with Vince's dad and his romance with Ianella. When Al said, "That's a nice beaver you have there, Mrs. Sofrone." I almost fell out of bed from laughing so hard! I loved the way Faye and Claire plotted to get their mom and Vince together. The personal add was a hoot! Duane was a crack up and he had some really great advice!
Unfortunately, I do have a few negative comments; some are just peeves of mine, but others I felt needed attention. I didn't like how long Vince and Jillene went back and forth. I wanted to yell, "Get on with it already!" This is just personal because I have no patience and want people to find their happy. I do have to add that there was good story happening while I waited impatiently. My other gripe was how the book ended; I WANT TO KNOW!!! I won't tell you what, because that would ruin the story. Read the book!
My last gripe, which I think needed attention, were all the typos. For example: The name of Al's boat is the "Gracie." Several times this was replaced with "Grade." I found myself going back to look just in case I had misread. As this is a very important part of the book, I felt like it was an inexcusable editing error. Another example was: "Surely her expression gave away everything she was dunking and feeling." WHAT?! Are they playing basketball?? Obviously it should be "thinking" not "dunking." There were several sentences like this that should have been caught by good editing. Don't count on spell check!!
Overall, I enjoyed Stef Ann Holm's Girls Night (Single Moms, Second Chances Series, Book 1), and will be glad to read more from her.
Unfortunately, I do have a few negative comments; some are just peeves of mine, but others I felt needed attention. I didn't like how long Vince and Jillene went back and forth. I wanted to yell, "Get on with it already!" This is just personal because I have no patience and want people to find their happy. I do have to add that there was good story happening while I waited impatiently. My other gripe was how the book ended; I WANT TO KNOW!!! I won't tell you what, because that would ruin the story. Read the book!
My last gripe, which I think needed attention, were all the typos. For example: The name of Al's boat is the "Gracie." Several times this was replaced with "Grade." I found myself going back to look just in case I had misread. As this is a very important part of the book, I felt like it was an inexcusable editing error. Another example was: "Surely her expression gave away everything she was dunking and feeling." WHAT?! Are they playing basketball?? Obviously it should be "thinking" not "dunking." There were several sentences like this that should have been caught by good editing. Don't count on spell check!!
Overall, I enjoyed Stef Ann Holm's Girls Night (Single Moms, Second Chances Series, Book 1), and will be glad to read more from her.
June 21, 2015
This one was okay, for the most part, though my general like of the two main characters pushes a bit more towards 2.5 (rounded up to 3, as is my usual habit). The relationship worked well enough, though it was conventional to the hilt. I liked the setting, as well.
There were some aspects I didn't really enjoy, though. The heroine's whining over an expensive chandelier* while her fridge was bare seemed unrealistic to me, for example, and overall I didn't really buy her as a "business woman" - some coupons handed out at the bookstore was a pretty weak attempt to make her look savvy, in my opinion. Also, every character talked like they were well over 50; it was disorienting. (I don't have a problem with romance characters over the age of 50, but it's confusing when the book tells me they are in their 30s-40s.) I found the subplot with Vince's dad a bit filler, to be honest, since there was zero conflict there. It was also hard to pin down, politically; there was a lot of sex in this book for one that espoused such conservative views on other things. And what's with the 10 and 12 year old crawling in the tub with mom all at the same time?
The kids were meant to be "precocious" I think, but they just came off a bit problematic and feral for me.
It wasn't a bad read, if you are into romance, and I enjoyed reading it, for the most part, but it didn't keep me up reading past my bedtime at all.
*
There were some aspects I didn't really enjoy, though. The heroine's whining over an expensive chandelier* while her fridge was bare seemed unrealistic to me, for example, and overall I didn't really buy her as a "business woman" - some coupons handed out at the bookstore was a pretty weak attempt to make her look savvy, in my opinion. Also, every character talked like they were well over 50; it was disorienting. (I don't have a problem with romance characters over the age of 50, but it's confusing when the book tells me they are in their 30s-40s.) I found the subplot with Vince's dad a bit filler, to be honest, since there was zero conflict there. It was also hard to pin down, politically; there was a lot of sex in this book for one that espoused such conservative views on other things. And what's with the 10 and 12 year old crawling in the tub with mom all at the same time?
The kids were meant to be "precocious" I think, but they just came off a bit problematic and feral for me.
It wasn't a bad read, if you are into romance, and I enjoyed reading it, for the most part, but it didn't keep me up reading past my bedtime at all.
*
August 5, 2019
The first book I have read by this Author and I wasn't disappointed!
A well written book with a strong plot which keeps you guessing right to the end, great characters, who are excellently written and you instantly feel each and every emotion they do makes this easy to read and enjoyable from start to finish.
Jillene never believed she was strong, but the last few years have tested her and she has managed to keep her head above water - just, surprising herself again and again, however life has not finished throwing hurdles at her yet.....just how much more can she take? She is on an emotional rollercoaster, being thrown from highs to lows and back again with every twist and turn. She needs to protect her two little angels Claire and Faye, who are one of the highlights of the book, they are funny, quirky, cute, laugh-out-loud outrageous and plotting Mum's happy ever after.....if only Jillene and Vince would fall into line with the girls plans!
Vince has hit rock bottom and your heart goes out to him with every difficult, no-win decision he has to make. He is hot, sexy, broody, Alpha and protective....he just needs to remember this! His heart and emotions are buried so deep, he can no longer remember where he buried them! Can his return home, the quiet, unwavering support from his Dad Al and the very distracting, gorgeous widow who owns the Java Hut opposite be enough to drag him kicking and screaming back into the living world?
I enjoyed every page of this book, its a great start to the Single Moms, Second Chances Series, looking forward to the next.
I was sent a free copy of this book by ebook discovery in exchange for an honest review
A well written book with a strong plot which keeps you guessing right to the end, great characters, who are excellently written and you instantly feel each and every emotion they do makes this easy to read and enjoyable from start to finish.
Jillene never believed she was strong, but the last few years have tested her and she has managed to keep her head above water - just, surprising herself again and again, however life has not finished throwing hurdles at her yet.....just how much more can she take? She is on an emotional rollercoaster, being thrown from highs to lows and back again with every twist and turn. She needs to protect her two little angels Claire and Faye, who are one of the highlights of the book, they are funny, quirky, cute, laugh-out-loud outrageous and plotting Mum's happy ever after.....if only Jillene and Vince would fall into line with the girls plans!
Vince has hit rock bottom and your heart goes out to him with every difficult, no-win decision he has to make. He is hot, sexy, broody, Alpha and protective....he just needs to remember this! His heart and emotions are buried so deep, he can no longer remember where he buried them! Can his return home, the quiet, unwavering support from his Dad Al and the very distracting, gorgeous widow who owns the Java Hut opposite be enough to drag him kicking and screaming back into the living world?
I enjoyed every page of this book, its a great start to the Single Moms, Second Chances Series, looking forward to the next.
I was sent a free copy of this book by ebook discovery in exchange for an honest review
November 1, 2015
I absolutely loved this story within a story. I really liked reading about Vince and Jillene and Al and Ianella. Al and Ianella may be older, but that doesn't mean there's no romance in their lives. Jillene is a single mom to two daughters, Claire and Faye, since her husband David died. Vince is the only son of Al. He's a true crime writer and comes to visit his dad in Blue Heron Beach, when he's having a difficult time with his latest book. Vince and Jillene have an attraction to one another, but will it go anywhere? I highly recommend this book to everyone. You will not be disappointed in writing. Stef Ann Holm makes you feel like you're right there, instead of just reading the book.
Merged review:
I absolutely loved this story within a story. I really liked reading about Vince and Jillene and Al and Ianella. Al and Ianella may be older, but that doesn't mean there's no romance in their lives. Jillene is a single mom to two daughters, Claire and Faye, since her husband David died. Vince is the only son of Al. He's a true crime writer and comes to visit his dad in Blue Heron Beach, when he's having a difficult time with his latest book. Vince and Jillene have an attraction to one another, but will it go anywhere? I highly recommend this book to everyone. You will not be disappointed in writing. Stef Ann Holm makes you feel like you're right there, instead of just reading the book.
Merged review:
I absolutely loved this story within a story. I really liked reading about Vince and Jillene and Al and Ianella. Al and Ianella may be older, but that doesn't mean there's no romance in their lives. Jillene is a single mom to two daughters, Claire and Faye, since her husband David died. Vince is the only son of Al. He's a true crime writer and comes to visit his dad in Blue Heron Beach, when he's having a difficult time with his latest book. Vince and Jillene have an attraction to one another, but will it go anywhere? I highly recommend this book to everyone. You will not be disappointed in writing. Stef Ann Holm makes you feel like you're right there, instead of just reading the book.
July 2, 2016
Jillene, the mother of two adorable and highly inquisitive girls, has been struggling to keep her coffee shop business afloat since the death of her husband two years ago. Not only is she struggling financially, she is struggling with the loneliness of being single. Between running the coffee shop and raising her girls, which are her top priorities, there is not much time for romance. The family lives in the small town of Blue Heron which is chock full of the most interesting, lovable and quirky characters that really enhance the story.
Vince, the true crime writer son of Al (the barber shop owner across the street from Jillene's coffee shop) comes home to Blue Heron to visit his dad and write his next novel about a sadistic serial killer. He is struggling with writing the book because of disturbing information he has received. When Jillene and Vince meet there is an instant attraction. However, Jillene and Vince are both dealing with internal conflict and stubbornness which in turn makes them fight their need for each other. Will they be able to see past their insecurities and let each other in? You will have to read this incredibly written book to find out!
I highly recommend this book to anybody who enjoys romance stories with real life characters who deal with real everyday problems. I know I for one will be reading more of this truly amazing author's books.
"I received this book from EBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review"
Vince, the true crime writer son of Al (the barber shop owner across the street from Jillene's coffee shop) comes home to Blue Heron to visit his dad and write his next novel about a sadistic serial killer. He is struggling with writing the book because of disturbing information he has received. When Jillene and Vince meet there is an instant attraction. However, Jillene and Vince are both dealing with internal conflict and stubbornness which in turn makes them fight their need for each other. Will they be able to see past their insecurities and let each other in? You will have to read this incredibly written book to find out!
I highly recommend this book to anybody who enjoys romance stories with real life characters who deal with real everyday problems. I know I for one will be reading more of this truly amazing author's books.
"I received this book from EBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review"
April 12, 2013
I am a fan of Stef Ann Holm's work, and this is one of the nicest books she has written.
Jillene is a widow raising 2 girls and having terrible financial problems. Her husband died quite suddenly and the business he had owned, a coffee shop, is still struggling to become successful.
Vince is a famous true crime writer. He has come back to his home town to see his father and try to figure out a way to deal with the latest serial killer's story. The killer has been found guilty but his story is creating a terrible sense of dread and disgust in Vince.
This book has a plot which is very straight forward. The development of character is well done. The secondary characters are all people who are interesting and a vital part of the story.
The reader gets a sense of small town life, and the close relationships which develop when you live in a small town.
The book is a romance that is very realistic in the sense that there are ambivalent feelings, fear and questions. All of which are a part of people who are falling in love. Both the hero and heroine bring their history to the table, and at times it is disheartening, rather like real life.
There is a gentle humor. The 2 little girls are a vital part of the story and at times they behave like children.
I recommend the book to anyone who would like to read a romance between 2 normal human beings.
Jillene is a widow raising 2 girls and having terrible financial problems. Her husband died quite suddenly and the business he had owned, a coffee shop, is still struggling to become successful.
Vince is a famous true crime writer. He has come back to his home town to see his father and try to figure out a way to deal with the latest serial killer's story. The killer has been found guilty but his story is creating a terrible sense of dread and disgust in Vince.
This book has a plot which is very straight forward. The development of character is well done. The secondary characters are all people who are interesting and a vital part of the story.
The reader gets a sense of small town life, and the close relationships which develop when you live in a small town.
The book is a romance that is very realistic in the sense that there are ambivalent feelings, fear and questions. All of which are a part of people who are falling in love. Both the hero and heroine bring their history to the table, and at times it is disheartening, rather like real life.
There is a gentle humor. The 2 little girls are a vital part of the story and at times they behave like children.
I recommend the book to anyone who would like to read a romance between 2 normal human beings.
July 3, 2015
Jillene McDermott is a widow with two young daughters. Since the death of her husband, she's been struggling. Her coffee shop is tottering on ruin and she has no love life. She feels defeated. Local celebrity, Vince Tremonti, is back in town to visit his father and to come to terms with issues on his new book. He meets Jillene and likes what he sees. They are drawn to each other. Does romance stand a chance when they are both dealing with serious problems? I liked Jillene. She's a hard worker who loves her girls. Loneliness has been her companion since she became a widow. Vince needs to sort out how to deal with a sadistic killer who wants to be famous by having him write a book detailing his crimes. This is tearing him apart. He hopes that talking with his father and the serenity of Blue Heron Beach will help him find a solution. This book with its interwoven story lines captured my interest. I enjoyed the setting. This small town is filled with interesting people. These locals are like an extended family. They care about you. I particularly enjoyed the romance between Vince's father, Al, and Ianella. It made me smile. It goes to show that love and romance are not just for the young. Stef Ann Holm did a great job. I love the characters, the setting and the drama. This romance touched me. This book is a keeper.
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March 8, 2016I received this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review. ***Warning – May contain spoilers***
The book follows the story of Jillene, a widow with two young daughters and a struggling coffee shop, and Vince, a true crime author who is struggling with his newest book. It also follows the story of Vince’s dad, Al and a lady friend from his church, Ianella.
I wanted to like this book, I really did. I just found so many problems with the story that I honestly don’t think I will read the second book in the series. I find it rather odd that the author chose a father/son storyline for the book. The subplot, Al and Ianella, overshadows the main plot. The timeline is off. They talk about going to concerts in the 70’s when they are in their late thirties and early 40’s. The daughters are in their early teens but are bathing with their mom.
The author portrays all the issues that Jillene is facing: having a hard time making ends meet, struggling to keep the coffee shop running, letting her insurance lapse, etc as SO overwhelming that she is selling things from her house and shop to keep afloat. However, in the epilogue, everything is magically fixed and she is winning an award from the magazine she has been reading. I just don’t buy the instant turnaround.
The book follows the story of Jillene, a widow with two young daughters and a struggling coffee shop, and Vince, a true crime author who is struggling with his newest book. It also follows the story of Vince’s dad, Al and a lady friend from his church, Ianella.
I wanted to like this book, I really did. I just found so many problems with the story that I honestly don’t think I will read the second book in the series. I find it rather odd that the author chose a father/son storyline for the book. The subplot, Al and Ianella, overshadows the main plot. The timeline is off. They talk about going to concerts in the 70’s when they are in their late thirties and early 40’s. The daughters are in their early teens but are bathing with their mom.
The author portrays all the issues that Jillene is facing: having a hard time making ends meet, struggling to keep the coffee shop running, letting her insurance lapse, etc as SO overwhelming that she is selling things from her house and shop to keep afloat. However, in the epilogue, everything is magically fixed and she is winning an award from the magazine she has been reading. I just don’t buy the instant turnaround.
June 27, 2016
Do you believe in second chances? This is a story about a young widower (Jillene) who is drawn to someone (Vince) at the first moment she met him. The thing is, is not only her life she had to think/worry about, she has 2 daughters. Her 2 daughters are her life and had done nothing but focus on them since the death of her husband. She tries to avoid Vince as much as possible but the town of Blue Heron isn't very big so it's impossible not to run in to each other.
This story is very addictive due to the emotional roller-coaster ride between Jillene and Vince. Just when you think they are finally going to get together, something comes up that ruins their plans.
There is a wedding in the story .... who's is it? There are a couple other people in the story that also fall in love. I'm not going to tell you who got married, you'll have to read the story to find out. Hope you will be cheering on the couple as much I did. Get ready to go thru the ups and downs .... this isn't a fairy tale and they don't ride off in to the sunset and live happily ever after. Their story is real, where they have problems and learn how to deal with them. Enjoy and happy reading!!!
This story is very addictive due to the emotional roller-coaster ride between Jillene and Vince. Just when you think they are finally going to get together, something comes up that ruins their plans.
There is a wedding in the story .... who's is it? There are a couple other people in the story that also fall in love. I'm not going to tell you who got married, you'll have to read the story to find out. Hope you will be cheering on the couple as much I did. Get ready to go thru the ups and downs .... this isn't a fairy tale and they don't ride off in to the sunset and live happily ever after. Their story is real, where they have problems and learn how to deal with them. Enjoy and happy reading!!!
June 11, 2016
This story brings home how we let fear and pride keep us from what we need most: help, friendship, love, someone to share things with. Once we let go and admit we are just as human as the next person, and that we need others in our lives, life becomes so much more than we ever thought possible. This is part of what Jillene and Vince had to come to terms with.
This is a very touching and heart warming story. Not only concerning Jillene and Vince but also Al and Ianella and some others. You find yourself rooting for the main characters to take a chance and let their feelings be known. When their barriers finally come down, and they let love in, you feel so happy for them it's as though they were friends of yours.
This is a very uplifting book and I look forward to reading more books by Stef Ann Holmes. There are some explicit sex scenes so I would not recommend it for anyone under 18. I received this book free from InstaFreebie in exchange for an honest review but I would have loved it anyway.
This is a very touching and heart warming story. Not only concerning Jillene and Vince but also Al and Ianella and some others. You find yourself rooting for the main characters to take a chance and let their feelings be known. When their barriers finally come down, and they let love in, you feel so happy for them it's as though they were friends of yours.
This is a very uplifting book and I look forward to reading more books by Stef Ann Holmes. There are some explicit sex scenes so I would not recommend it for anyone under 18. I received this book free from InstaFreebie in exchange for an honest review but I would have loved it anyway.
October 21, 2014
I was really impressed with Jillene. I don't know how I would deal if I had to live with the hand she was dealt. Her husband dying young. Being left with 2 teenage daughters to raise, a house, a business... and debt out the wazoo. I like to think I would pull myself together and be as amazing as Jillene... but I somehow picture myself packing up and trying to start over near my parents. She truly impressed me.
All that said... I loved her even more with Vince. And I loved Vince with her. When they were together it was like all of their life problems dropped away. They fit so comfortably together... whether alone or with Claire & Faye.
Vince's involvement with writing the story of a serial killer that was obsessed with him as his author had me nervous throughout the book.
I love the added romance between Vince dad, Al, and Ianella. So sweet. It felt like a little story bonus.
All that said... I loved her even more with Vince. And I loved Vince with her. When they were together it was like all of their life problems dropped away. They fit so comfortably together... whether alone or with Claire & Faye.
Vince's involvement with writing the story of a serial killer that was obsessed with him as his author had me nervous throughout the book.
I love the added romance between Vince dad, Al, and Ianella. So sweet. It felt like a little story bonus.
July 27, 2014
After losing her job because of an illness, Tessa Sheridan has returned to her hometown and bought a small cottage in the woods. The only thing disturbing her serenity is the loud roar of motorcycles at her neighbors house. But when she meets the bad boy next door who everyone tells her is trouble, Tessa is very intrigued. Lucky Romo was a rebel with a dark past. Getting close to Tessa was not what he planned. But the intense attraction between them was something that could not be denied.
I liked this book better than the previous book in the series. Lucky Romo was an interesting tortured hero. He was trying to live down his past and keep his family safe by staying far away from them. He always worried that his build and tattoos would scare people. I wish there was a picture of him in the book because I have a hard time imagining it. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
I liked this book better than the previous book in the series. Lucky Romo was an interesting tortured hero. He was trying to live down his past and keep his family safe by staying far away from them. He always worried that his build and tattoos would scare people. I wish there was a picture of him in the book because I have a hard time imagining it. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
September 12, 2015
GIRL'S NIGHT was a sweet story of a mother and two daughters who are doing the best with what life has dealt them. It has been five years since their husband/father has died, and the girls and their mom have become very close. I was impressed at how mature the girls seemed for their ages (10 and 12). A loving home life, a struggling self owned business, and meeting someone new all combine to a very sweet ending. Partly predictable, partly stubbornness on the part of the mom, it is a story that will tug on your heartstrings. I loved the second romance within the story as well as the renewal of friendship. Lots of warm moments to counteract the nasty man and deeds that are on the periphery of the story.
This was an enjoyable read that seemed to slow time and make me relax as I read it. More than a love story-a story of love, family, and community.
This was an enjoyable read that seemed to slow time and make me relax as I read it. More than a love story-a story of love, family, and community.
March 24, 2016
Firstly , to get the legalities out of the way 'I received this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.'
That said it is a wonderful story with a couple of romances thrown in. All in all it is well written with well rounded characters and you will find it hard to put down .
A mother that is putting her children and struggling business ahead of everything Jillene is too busy keeping almost on top of the bills to really look for romance. Then local boy made good comes back to town.
Vince is an ex-cop who is now a famous true crime writer but his latest book subject is really causing him sleepless nights. He has come back to his home town to get the book done but is finding it all to hard.
The romance between Al and Ianella is a lovely interlude and proof you are never to old for love.
That said it is a wonderful story with a couple of romances thrown in. All in all it is well written with well rounded characters and you will find it hard to put down .
A mother that is putting her children and struggling business ahead of everything Jillene is too busy keeping almost on top of the bills to really look for romance. Then local boy made good comes back to town.
Vince is an ex-cop who is now a famous true crime writer but his latest book subject is really causing him sleepless nights. He has come back to his home town to get the book done but is finding it all to hard.
The romance between Al and Ianella is a lovely interlude and proof you are never to old for love.
June 21, 2016
This is the first book of Stef Ann's that I have read. The female lead, Jillene is a strong loving single mother. She strives to teach her girls to be honest and respectful no matter what life may throw at you. Jillene had been doing her best to support her and her children but she was starting to get lonely after years of being without a man in her life. In steps Vince who is a famous true crime author. He has come back to town to write a new book and visit his dad. When Vince meets Jillene sparks fly around them. Both feel the attraction but are too afraid at first to act upon their feelings and decide to just be friends. As they grow closer and learn about each others past, the walls they have built up begin to tumble and both Vince and Jillene realize they been given a remarkable opportunity to love one another. I was given a free ebook copy for an honest review.
July 28, 2015
I received this book from instafree for the price of a review. This was the first book I have read from this author but will no doubt buy more. It was a sweet story with great, if quirky, characters. Our heroine, widowed two years before, finds herself in a pickle. She has two daughters, a flailing coffee shop, a mountain of debt and not two pennies to rub together. Our hero is a true crimes author that has seen, and heard, too much. He needs help getting back to the light. Add two over eager young girls who know just enough to get themselves in trouble and hilarity ensues. Between coffee and fending off the result of a badly worded personal ad the two fall in love.
I loved this book, it was a fun quick read.
I loved this book, it was a fun quick read.
November 1, 2015
I absolutely loved this story within a story. I really liked reading about Vince and Jillene and Al and Ianella. Al and Ianella may be older, but that doesn't mean there's no romance in their lives. Jillene is a single mom to two daughters, Claire and Faye, since her husband David died. Vince is the only son of Al. He's a true crime writer and comes to visit his dad in Blue Heron Beach, when he's having a difficult time with his latest book. Vince and Jillene have an attraction to one another, but will it go anywhere? I highly recommend this book to everyone. You will not be disappointed in writing. Stef Ann Holm makes you feel like you're right there, instead of just reading the book.
October 16, 2015
Nice, an easy read romance.
Jillene is trying to get her life back together after the loss of her husband, David. She juggles her time between bringing up her two teenage daughters, while running a home and her coffee shop.
Vince is an ex cop, working as a true life crime writer. He comes home to Blue Heron Beach to visit his Pop, and clear his head from the pressure of writing his latest book.
The book dances round the two main characters getting together, while unveiling the background of Vince Life as a ex cop, and the money troubles Jillene wrestles with.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jillene is trying to get her life back together after the loss of her husband, David. She juggles her time between bringing up her two teenage daughters, while running a home and her coffee shop.
Vince is an ex cop, working as a true life crime writer. He comes home to Blue Heron Beach to visit his Pop, and clear his head from the pressure of writing his latest book.
The book dances round the two main characters getting together, while unveiling the background of Vince Life as a ex cop, and the money troubles Jillene wrestles with.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2016
I received this book free from E-books Discovery in exchange for an honest review. I don't usually read this type of book, but did enjoy the read. Jill McDermott is a widowed mother of two tween girls Clare and Faye, who is trying to make ends meet and raise her girls alone. Her husband did not leave her in good shape financially, but did leave her with a coffee shop with which she is trying to make a living. Vince walks into her life with problems of his own, but they are immediately drawn romantically to each other. Can lust turn to love and can they both overcome the obstacles? I think there was a grasp of small town life and some real life obstacles.
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