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Romance in Rehoboth #6
Stage Mom
A mom who'll never give up fighting for her special needs daughter...
A "nice guy" who finally learns to take a stand...
Larissa and Mateo's worlds collide in Stage Mom!
Everything about Larissa Emerson is strong.
Her personality.
Her snark.
Her aversion to men after one too many disappointments.
Her unwavering fight to ensure her special needs daughter is treated like any other girl--a fight that ramps up when she begs to compete in a beauty pageant.
Mateo Flores is in his first year of heading up the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant, and he’s not about to screw it up. He knew he’d be dealing with stereotypical pageant moms, but he never saw this one coming. She hits him like a hurricane, all strength and beauty and attitude.
How can he say no to a force of nature like Larissa Emerson?
Stage Mom is part of the Romance in Rehoboth Series, where the ladies are strong and independent and the men are actually nice guys. These delightful romantic comedies are set against the backdrop of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware's top vacation destination and can be read in any order.
Book 1: Fat Girl (Claire and Jack's Story)
Book 2: The Flip (Sonnet and Drew's Story)
Book 3: Plot Twist (Lindy and Meric's Story)
Book 4: Badge Bunny (Brynne and Chris's Story)
Book 5: Wedding War (Hannah and Jason's Story)
Book 6: Stage Mom (Larissa and Mateo's Story)
A "nice guy" who finally learns to take a stand...
Larissa and Mateo's worlds collide in Stage Mom!
Everything about Larissa Emerson is strong.
Her personality.
Her snark.
Her aversion to men after one too many disappointments.
Her unwavering fight to ensure her special needs daughter is treated like any other girl--a fight that ramps up when she begs to compete in a beauty pageant.
Mateo Flores is in his first year of heading up the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant, and he’s not about to screw it up. He knew he’d be dealing with stereotypical pageant moms, but he never saw this one coming. She hits him like a hurricane, all strength and beauty and attitude.
How can he say no to a force of nature like Larissa Emerson?
Stage Mom is part of the Romance in Rehoboth Series, where the ladies are strong and independent and the men are actually nice guys. These delightful romantic comedies are set against the backdrop of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware's top vacation destination and can be read in any order.
Book 1: Fat Girl (Claire and Jack's Story)
Book 2: The Flip (Sonnet and Drew's Story)
Book 3: Plot Twist (Lindy and Meric's Story)
Book 4: Badge Bunny (Brynne and Chris's Story)
Book 5: Wedding War (Hannah and Jason's Story)
Book 6: Stage Mom (Larissa and Mateo's Story)
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2019
About the author
K.L. Montgomery
40 books227 followersK.L. Montgomery writes #bodypositive sweet romance and romcom. A librarian in a former life, she now works as an editor and runs the 5000-member Indie Author Support group on Facebook in addition to publishing under two names.
Though she remains a Hoosier at heart, K.L. shares her coastal Delaware home with some furry creatures and her husband, who is on the furry side as well. She has an undying love for her three sons, Broadway musicals, the beach, Seinfeld, the color teal, IU basketball, paisleys, and dark chocolate.
Visit K.L.'s website at www.klmontgomery.com and sign up for her newsletter. You can follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/GreenCastles, Twitter (@KLMontgomery8) or Instagram (k.l.montgomery)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 21, 2020
5 Stars
Stage Mom is the sixth book in the ‘Romance in Rehoboth series by K.L Montgomery. It was such a great read, and definitely one of my favourites that Ms. Montgomery has written. It has just the right amount of drama and tension to really keep things interesting. This is a superb contemporary romance with a really well written and touching storyline. It’s definitely memorable- one I won’t soon forget.
Larissa is a single mother with a special needs daughter who is participating in the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant. Larissa is determined to ensure that her daughter is treated just like all the other children in the pageant.
Mateo is the new director, his family have been running the pageant for many years, but this is the first time that Mateo has been trusted to oversee the whole thing himself. He has a lot riding on this. With some radical ideas for improving the show, he’s determined to make this the best show ever- but not everyone likes change.
The chemistry between the two starts to sizzle as these two try to hide their attraction. Getting involved will only complicate things even more. Won’t it?
Such a great story!!!
As I have said so many times before, I love all Ms. Montgomery’s stories- she really is a gifted storyteller who is easily able to pull readers into her stories- keeping them invested, connected, and engrossed every step of the way. I love how her stories depicts characters who are entirely realistic, relatable, and endearing.
Another great addition to the series!
Thank you, Ms. Montgomery!
Stage Mom is the sixth book in the ‘Romance in Rehoboth series by K.L Montgomery. It was such a great read, and definitely one of my favourites that Ms. Montgomery has written. It has just the right amount of drama and tension to really keep things interesting. This is a superb contemporary romance with a really well written and touching storyline. It’s definitely memorable- one I won’t soon forget.
Larissa is a single mother with a special needs daughter who is participating in the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant. Larissa is determined to ensure that her daughter is treated just like all the other children in the pageant.
Mateo is the new director, his family have been running the pageant for many years, but this is the first time that Mateo has been trusted to oversee the whole thing himself. He has a lot riding on this. With some radical ideas for improving the show, he’s determined to make this the best show ever- but not everyone likes change.
The chemistry between the two starts to sizzle as these two try to hide their attraction. Getting involved will only complicate things even more. Won’t it?
Such a great story!!!
As I have said so many times before, I love all Ms. Montgomery’s stories- she really is a gifted storyteller who is easily able to pull readers into her stories- keeping them invested, connected, and engrossed every step of the way. I love how her stories depicts characters who are entirely realistic, relatable, and endearing.
Another great addition to the series!
Thank you, Ms. Montgomery!
April 29, 2020
K. L. Montgomery is a mastermind putting comedy and romance together. She writes about the funny moments in a relationship and not the difficult moments. Her characters bring life to the story. This is book 6 in the Romance in Rehoboth series. It can be a stand alone book, I highly recommend reading all the books. This is Larissa and Mateo’s story. One thing that I love about this story is that Larissa is a strong woman who stands up for her special needs daughter. She is not afraid to speak her mind. All she wants is that her little girl be treated like every other little girl. In comes Mateo, who is running a pageant and is prepared to deal with the strong pageant moms. He understands that each mom thinks that their little girl is going to be the pageant queen. That is until he meets Larissa. Will Larissa be too much for him? Will Larissa open her heart up to Mateo? You will have to read this story to find out the answers to these questions.
April 20, 2020
Stage Mom by K.L Montgomery a five-star read that will astound you. This is number six in the Romance in Rehoboth series and its strangely my favourite, I say that as its not like the rest of the series, this one just has that little extra or lots of something little extras and they won’t appeal to everyone but they just made the whole thing extra for me. There are some moments in this story that I didn’t enjoy and I did want to throat punch some people, but overall there was something extra about the writing and something made me tear up one moment and smile like my face was breaking at others. Thank you for writing this series I’m sure it will be a re-read multiple times for me.
April 22, 2020
Stage Mom (Romance in Rehoboth #6) by K.L. Montgomery
5 of 5 Stars
Having read the previous books in Montgomery’s, ‘Romance in Rehoboth’ series I was looking forward to this sixth instalment and was not disappointed and was happily immersed in another Rehoboth Beach’s romantic comedy stories. It is a standalone story and you do not need to read the series in order but I would thoroughly recommend reading the whole series.
In Stage Mom, Larissa Emerson is a strong women and fiery with it as she has had to fight for so much in her life especially to ensure that her special needs daughter is treated fairly and equally. After many disappointments with men and as a single Mum she has sworn off men but when she meets Mateo Flores she can not deny her attraction and neither can he. Mateo is running the ‘Little Miss Rehoboth pageant’, for the first year and doesn’t want to mess it up. Although he was prepared to deal with the stereotypical pageant Mums he was not prepared for Larissa who when her daughter Hailey asks to take part in the pageant goes out to fight for her daughters place. Mateo finds Larissa a force of nature and soon discovers he just can’t say no to her. This was another great story by Montgomery who is never afraid to tackle sensitive issues this time by Larissa’s daughter Hailey having Down Syndrome, but does so sensitively and with humour.
I loved the amazing characters in this novel and the storyline flowed easily and kept me hooked from page one. I was disappointed to finish it, always a sign of a good book.
5 of 5 Stars
Having read the previous books in Montgomery’s, ‘Romance in Rehoboth’ series I was looking forward to this sixth instalment and was not disappointed and was happily immersed in another Rehoboth Beach’s romantic comedy stories. It is a standalone story and you do not need to read the series in order but I would thoroughly recommend reading the whole series.
In Stage Mom, Larissa Emerson is a strong women and fiery with it as she has had to fight for so much in her life especially to ensure that her special needs daughter is treated fairly and equally. After many disappointments with men and as a single Mum she has sworn off men but when she meets Mateo Flores she can not deny her attraction and neither can he. Mateo is running the ‘Little Miss Rehoboth pageant’, for the first year and doesn’t want to mess it up. Although he was prepared to deal with the stereotypical pageant Mums he was not prepared for Larissa who when her daughter Hailey asks to take part in the pageant goes out to fight for her daughters place. Mateo finds Larissa a force of nature and soon discovers he just can’t say no to her. This was another great story by Montgomery who is never afraid to tackle sensitive issues this time by Larissa’s daughter Hailey having Down Syndrome, but does so sensitively and with humour.
I loved the amazing characters in this novel and the storyline flowed easily and kept me hooked from page one. I was disappointed to finish it, always a sign of a good book.
April 22, 2020
Stage Mom (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6)
By K.L. Montgomery
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the story Stage Mom (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6) by K.L. Montgomery. It is a story that pulled me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the final page. I loved reading about the characters of Larissa Emerson and Mateo Flores. Larissa is a strong, independent woman. She has a special needs daughter who she loves and will always fight that she is treated like any other girl. This includes when her daughter wants to be in a beauty pageant. Mateo is heading up the Little Miss Rehoboth Pageant. He wants to make sure that he doesn’t screw it up. He also finds himself deeply attracted to Larissa. After what has happened in the past Larissa doesn’t feel that she needs to find another man. Then she meets Mateo. These two have an attraction to each other. Will Larissa give Mateo a chance at her heart? What does the future hold for them? Read this book to find out. I loved how Larissa’s character is not afraid to say what she means. I grew to care about what happened to Larissa and Mateo with each chapter that I read. The story also had my emotions going up and down while reading. There are moments when I would laugh and others that touched my heart. This is a book that I would highly recommend reading.
By K.L. Montgomery
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the story Stage Mom (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6) by K.L. Montgomery. It is a story that pulled me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the final page. I loved reading about the characters of Larissa Emerson and Mateo Flores. Larissa is a strong, independent woman. She has a special needs daughter who she loves and will always fight that she is treated like any other girl. This includes when her daughter wants to be in a beauty pageant. Mateo is heading up the Little Miss Rehoboth Pageant. He wants to make sure that he doesn’t screw it up. He also finds himself deeply attracted to Larissa. After what has happened in the past Larissa doesn’t feel that she needs to find another man. Then she meets Mateo. These two have an attraction to each other. Will Larissa give Mateo a chance at her heart? What does the future hold for them? Read this book to find out. I loved how Larissa’s character is not afraid to say what she means. I grew to care about what happened to Larissa and Mateo with each chapter that I read. The story also had my emotions going up and down while reading. There are moments when I would laugh and others that touched my heart. This is a book that I would highly recommend reading.
May 8, 2020
I give Stage Mom: A Single Mom Romantic Comedy (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6) by KL Montgomery, 5 stars.
Another hit in the series. This book centers around a little girl beauty pageant. Again, this is completely different from anything else in the series. The attraction between Mateo, whose family has run the pageant for many, many years, and Larissa, a mother of a girl who wants to enter, is evident and palpable. While the struggles they have trying to make their relationship work is the backbone of this book and quite interesting, what really sets this book apart is the diversity. (I am being vague for a reason.i do not want to give anything away.) This book (as well as most of the series) is set in Rehoboth, Delaware, a place known for their diversity and freedom of being who you want. This book does an excellent job of showing this and doing it with class and at the same time making it fun and not preachy. It is quite evident the author has done a lot of research to make it as real as she can. She does a wonderful job and I hope she continues to push the boundaries and give us another fun and different story. Oh and the fact that Larissa was a teenager of the nineties -- I can totally relate. Some of her thoughts and comments brought be back and made me laugh. To the author-- please continue to bring us fun, entertaining books like this one. You are a master at it.
Another hit in the series. This book centers around a little girl beauty pageant. Again, this is completely different from anything else in the series. The attraction between Mateo, whose family has run the pageant for many, many years, and Larissa, a mother of a girl who wants to enter, is evident and palpable. While the struggles they have trying to make their relationship work is the backbone of this book and quite interesting, what really sets this book apart is the diversity. (I am being vague for a reason.i do not want to give anything away.) This book (as well as most of the series) is set in Rehoboth, Delaware, a place known for their diversity and freedom of being who you want. This book does an excellent job of showing this and doing it with class and at the same time making it fun and not preachy. It is quite evident the author has done a lot of research to make it as real as she can. She does a wonderful job and I hope she continues to push the boundaries and give us another fun and different story. Oh and the fact that Larissa was a teenager of the nineties -- I can totally relate. Some of her thoughts and comments brought be back and made me laugh. To the author-- please continue to bring us fun, entertaining books like this one. You are a master at it.
May 7, 2020
Stage Mom: A Single Mom Romantic Comedy (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6) by K.L. Montgomery
5 Stars
Stage Mom gives us a mom fighting for her special needs daughter to be treated the same as anyone else, I have a special needs grandson and this one hit me square in the feels.
I loved how Larissa and Mateo weren't these perfect 23 year old walking magazine covers, they were a bit older and written as real people.
This had some super tough spots for me, again I have a severely special needs grandson and this story was handled so beautifully, completely spot on and this made me love this book even more. Don't get me wrong, there were some parts that made me want to crawl through my kindle and smack the heck out of a couple characters, but there were even more heartwarming moments and absolutely hilarious parts. I fell head over heels in love with Hailey from the start! I also once again love checking back in with many characters from earlier books
This was the perfect addition to this series, I'm praying that there is more to come from Rehoboth, a place I can see in my mind, a place I would love to visit! I can not wait to reread this whole series back to back on a quiet weekend!
Loved it!
5 Stars
Stage Mom gives us a mom fighting for her special needs daughter to be treated the same as anyone else, I have a special needs grandson and this one hit me square in the feels.
I loved how Larissa and Mateo weren't these perfect 23 year old walking magazine covers, they were a bit older and written as real people.
This had some super tough spots for me, again I have a severely special needs grandson and this story was handled so beautifully, completely spot on and this made me love this book even more. Don't get me wrong, there were some parts that made me want to crawl through my kindle and smack the heck out of a couple characters, but there were even more heartwarming moments and absolutely hilarious parts. I fell head over heels in love with Hailey from the start! I also once again love checking back in with many characters from earlier books
This was the perfect addition to this series, I'm praying that there is more to come from Rehoboth, a place I can see in my mind, a place I would love to visit! I can not wait to reread this whole series back to back on a quiet weekend!
Loved it!
April 22, 2020
This is part of the Romance in Rehoboth series. This is one of my favorites by this author. She writes with such heart and brings romance to a new level for me. This is a well developed story that I loved watch the characters grow throughout the story. I had no problem connecting with the characters who brought the story to life for me. This is a story about Larissa and Mateo. She is a mom of a special needs daughter who do anything to make sure her daughter is treated like any other girl. He is running a pagent for the first time and is determined to suceed. He never expected to meet someone like Larissa but will he be able to resist her? I loved their chemistry together. They are strong characters especially Larissa and is prepared to fight for what she wants. What will fate have in store for them? Will she win his heart over? I highly recommend their story and this author.
May 3, 2020
Stage Mom is the sixth novel in the Romance in Rehoboth series by K.L. Montgomery. It follows Larissa and Mateo who are new characters from Rehoboth Beach.
Mateo Flores is the General Mamager for his family's resort and the newly appointed Paegant Director for the Little Miss Rehoboth Beach paegant. But when he makes some changes to the paegant that people aren't happy with, can he turn things around?
Larissa Emerson has reluctantly entered her daughter in the paegant, per her insistent request. When she finds out she was initally rejected and pursues why she has set the course for her and her daughter Hailey's summer.
The usual band of Rehoboth characters find their way back into our lives with this story. It is fun and incredibly touching. It shows how a community can either come together or fall apart when it comes to diversity and inclusion.
I truly enjoyed this series! The foundation of the town was amazing and the characters were so fun!!
Mateo Flores is the General Mamager for his family's resort and the newly appointed Paegant Director for the Little Miss Rehoboth Beach paegant. But when he makes some changes to the paegant that people aren't happy with, can he turn things around?
Larissa Emerson has reluctantly entered her daughter in the paegant, per her insistent request. When she finds out she was initally rejected and pursues why she has set the course for her and her daughter Hailey's summer.
The usual band of Rehoboth characters find their way back into our lives with this story. It is fun and incredibly touching. It shows how a community can either come together or fall apart when it comes to diversity and inclusion.
I truly enjoyed this series! The foundation of the town was amazing and the characters were so fun!!
May 4, 2020
Stage Mom: A Single Mom Romantic Comedy by K.L. Montgomery is the sixth book in the Romance in Rehoboth series. These books can all be read as standalone although I think you should definitely read them all as they are that good!
I loved Larissa! She is everything I want to be in a mum – she is strong and willing to fight tooth and nail for her daughter. And yet I found that she has such a sweet side to her. She had been through so much and yet was able to find a way past all of that to see new possibilities.
It worked well between her and Mateo – they complimented each other perfectly. Their story was entertaining and very amusing! The author has such a great writing style and always knows the right pace needed for her characters.
This is a brilliant series and one I have really enjoyed. I would highly recommend reading it!
I loved Larissa! She is everything I want to be in a mum – she is strong and willing to fight tooth and nail for her daughter. And yet I found that she has such a sweet side to her. She had been through so much and yet was able to find a way past all of that to see new possibilities.
It worked well between her and Mateo – they complimented each other perfectly. Their story was entertaining and very amusing! The author has such a great writing style and always knows the right pace needed for her characters.
This is a brilliant series and one I have really enjoyed. I would highly recommend reading it!
May 8, 2020
Stage Mom is the sixth and currently the last book in K.L. Montgomery’s Romance in Rehoboth universe and in some ways I think this book has been my favorite. Don’t get me wrong, all the books showcase strong and independent women and men that are truly decent but somehow there was something about Stage Mom that touched something in me. I think it was the absolute love that Larissa Emerson has for her special needs daughter, the way how she fights to ensure that the would be treated like any other girl and demanding the world the give her the same opportunities! When she takes on the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant, she meets Mateo Flores who is heading it for the very first time and he will not mess it up, no sir, no way …but … then he meets Larissa and everything he has ever thought or believed is out of the door and we are taken on a ride that we will remember for a while!
April 22, 2020
Stage Mom: A Single Mom Romantic Comedy (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6) by K. L. Montgomery
5-stars
Stage Mom: A Single Mom Romantic Comedy (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6) by K. L. Montgomery was an amazing read. I loved the characters of this book. As a mom I really connected with Larissa and her sweet ladybug. Mateo was also an amazing gentleman in this story. I loved how she faced diversity in the face regarding her daughter’s diagnosis of Down Syndrome. The story of her sperm donor’s reaction killed me. On another note I was easily pulled into the drama surrounding the pageant. It was very realistic and at times straight up hilarious. Such an excellent read and also easily read a standalone. I highly recommend it.
5-stars
Stage Mom: A Single Mom Romantic Comedy (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6) by K. L. Montgomery was an amazing read. I loved the characters of this book. As a mom I really connected with Larissa and her sweet ladybug. Mateo was also an amazing gentleman in this story. I loved how she faced diversity in the face regarding her daughter’s diagnosis of Down Syndrome. The story of her sperm donor’s reaction killed me. On another note I was easily pulled into the drama surrounding the pageant. It was very realistic and at times straight up hilarious. Such an excellent read and also easily read a standalone. I highly recommend it.
April 21, 2020
Stage Mom by K.L. Montgomery
Five Stars
Stage Mom by K.L. Montgomery Five Stars Stage Mom: A Single Mom Romantic Comedy is the sixth book in Romance in Rehoboth series by K.L. Montgomery. This is my new favorite of this series. I just couldn’t put this book down once I started reading. Larissa Emerson is a strong female character who is always fighting for her special needs daughter. Mateo Flores is trying to not screw up his first year running the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant. The clash between these two is really spectacular. I love all of the books in this series and highly recommend it to everyone who loves romance.
Five Stars
Stage Mom by K.L. Montgomery Five Stars Stage Mom: A Single Mom Romantic Comedy is the sixth book in Romance in Rehoboth series by K.L. Montgomery. This is my new favorite of this series. I just couldn’t put this book down once I started reading. Larissa Emerson is a strong female character who is always fighting for her special needs daughter. Mateo Flores is trying to not screw up his first year running the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant. The clash between these two is really spectacular. I love all of the books in this series and highly recommend it to everyone who loves romance.
April 21, 2020
This is a heartfelt story about a mom who would go to any lengths for her child. It shows the unconditional love between a parent and child and it was written beautifully. This story was touching and a great read. The main characters were an eclectic group that haphazardly just fit. One was not the same without the rest. They just work better together. This story moved me, and the series as a whole was enjoyable, incredibly funny and life like. The author interacts with the audience by giving them a colourful cast of characters and a structured storyline. 4 stars
April 21, 2020
Stage Mom (Romance in Rehoboth #6) by K.L. Montgomery
4 Stars
Larissa’s daughter has Down Syndrome and decides that she wants to be in the little girls pageant. Mateo’s family has run the pageant for the last forty years and is a stickler for tradition. When he decides to make some changes, the whole town is in an uproar. With lighthearted comedy and romance, the author tackles discrimination and racism in this book. The story is definitely a winner.
4 Stars
Larissa’s daughter has Down Syndrome and decides that she wants to be in the little girls pageant. Mateo’s family has run the pageant for the last forty years and is a stickler for tradition. When he decides to make some changes, the whole town is in an uproar. With lighthearted comedy and romance, the author tackles discrimination and racism in this book. The story is definitely a winner.
May 4, 2020
Stage Mom was a great 5 star read.
Larissa is a single mom to a special needs child and when it comes to men she has some very high walls. When she meets Mateo, there is something about him that draws her in. Will she finally find the right one for her and her daughter?
1-click and get started on this great series now.
Larissa is a single mom to a special needs child and when it comes to men she has some very high walls. When she meets Mateo, there is something about him that draws her in. Will she finally find the right one for her and her daughter?
1-click and get started on this great series now.
August 22, 2020
Stage Mom
I really enjoyed this book! There were moments I wanted to cry, wanted to yell and moments I did laugh out loud. Mateo and Larissa had amazing chemistry. Sweet and sexy book with a perfect HEA.
I really enjoyed this book! There were moments I wanted to cry, wanted to yell and moments I did laugh out loud. Mateo and Larissa had amazing chemistry. Sweet and sexy book with a perfect HEA.
April 21, 2020
Stage Mom (Romance in Rehoboth Book 6) is the sixth book in the series and is a sweet read. It is wonderful and unexpected. I laughed and cried and it was a nice way to spend a couple of hours reading. I absolutely love this book and the characters were delightful. KL has done it again in spectacular fashion.
May 8, 2020
Stage Mom is the 6th and final (unless the author decides to go back and add to this series) book in the Romance in Rehoboth series by K.L. Montgomery.
Although this is a series of romantic comedies, this book is probably the one that hit me in the feels the most. Larissa Emerson is the mom of the most amazing little girl with special needs who just wants to be treated like any other little girl. Hailey’s one wish is to take part in the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant and this is the story o her mum’s fight for her to take part and to be treated the same as the other little girls.
Enter Mateo Flores who this year is taking over the pageant from his grandmother for the first time. Mateo can’t help but be captivated by little Hailey (she is adorable) and her mother Larissa.
This is a fantastic story of the struggle to see beyond the norms and become a much more inclusive society.
Although this is a series of romantic comedies, this book is probably the one that hit me in the feels the most. Larissa Emerson is the mom of the most amazing little girl with special needs who just wants to be treated like any other little girl. Hailey’s one wish is to take part in the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant and this is the story o her mum’s fight for her to take part and to be treated the same as the other little girls.
Enter Mateo Flores who this year is taking over the pageant from his grandmother for the first time. Mateo can’t help but be captivated by little Hailey (she is adorable) and her mother Larissa.
This is a fantastic story of the struggle to see beyond the norms and become a much more inclusive society.
September 23, 2019
I sat on this review for a day trying to decide how to go about reviewing a book I didn't love by an author I love. It's not easy, and I don't want people to shy away from this book just because I didn't love it because there is a lot to love in the book.
Let's start by pointing out how inclusive Montgomery is with her cast of characters. We have an array of kids wanting to participate in the Little Miss Rehoboth Pageant, known for being exclusive in their choices of participants. We have Hailey, with Down Syndrome, who is our main character Larissa's daughter. We have a boy which is something completely unheard of in this pageant world. We have your typical bratty girl who feels entitled to be there and whose mother feels she is entitled to win.
It is our star, Larissa's daughter Hailey who brought up the idea of a pageant, who pushed her mother until she relented. Sure she has challenges, she's not all that coordinated, and she doesn't have a standout talent but that doesn't mean she shouldn't be included. She's a hard worker who really wants to do this and that's a strong message in Stage Mom.
Then, we have the romance between Larissa and Mateo and that's our second focus in the book. This is the part I didn't love because while I do read and enjoy books where our main characters experience insta-love, I just didn't feel there was enough go between the two to warrant this insta-love. A few makeout sessions and no real hanging out because of the impropriety of their relationship, so there isn't a foundation for such strong feelings. I felt some groundwork was skipped over to get us here.
Also, the Stage Mom idea, while executed with humor, would be detrimental to her daughter. She might not hear her mother acting in such a way but other kids would, parents would, and they talk at home around their children. I think it unfairly sets Hailey apart. Sure Larissa doesn't mind what the others in town see her as but creating a spectacle will land on your kids in one way or another.
I liked Larissa. She was quick on her feet with a witty comeback and her snark game is on point. I admire a mother who will encourage their child in their dreams, and who will fight to make it happen. I liked watching Mateo open up, learning to stand up to his family who has pretty much always run the show around him. I enjoyed watching them work together to fight for acceptance for all the children in the show. Larissa's neighbor Mrs. Robinson was a special treat, and I can imagine the stories she would have to tell. I would love to see her appear in other books. Overall this is a fun, easy read, with great characters, and there's a bit to love for everyone.
Let's start by pointing out how inclusive Montgomery is with her cast of characters. We have an array of kids wanting to participate in the Little Miss Rehoboth Pageant, known for being exclusive in their choices of participants. We have Hailey, with Down Syndrome, who is our main character Larissa's daughter. We have a boy which is something completely unheard of in this pageant world. We have your typical bratty girl who feels entitled to be there and whose mother feels she is entitled to win.
It is our star, Larissa's daughter Hailey who brought up the idea of a pageant, who pushed her mother until she relented. Sure she has challenges, she's not all that coordinated, and she doesn't have a standout talent but that doesn't mean she shouldn't be included. She's a hard worker who really wants to do this and that's a strong message in Stage Mom.
Then, we have the romance between Larissa and Mateo and that's our second focus in the book. This is the part I didn't love because while I do read and enjoy books where our main characters experience insta-love, I just didn't feel there was enough go between the two to warrant this insta-love. A few makeout sessions and no real hanging out because of the impropriety of their relationship, so there isn't a foundation for such strong feelings. I felt some groundwork was skipped over to get us here.
Also, the Stage Mom idea, while executed with humor, would be detrimental to her daughter. She might not hear her mother acting in such a way but other kids would, parents would, and they talk at home around their children. I think it unfairly sets Hailey apart. Sure Larissa doesn't mind what the others in town see her as but creating a spectacle will land on your kids in one way or another.
I liked Larissa. She was quick on her feet with a witty comeback and her snark game is on point. I admire a mother who will encourage their child in their dreams, and who will fight to make it happen. I liked watching Mateo open up, learning to stand up to his family who has pretty much always run the show around him. I enjoyed watching them work together to fight for acceptance for all the children in the show. Larissa's neighbor Mrs. Robinson was a special treat, and I can imagine the stories she would have to tell. I would love to see her appear in other books. Overall this is a fun, easy read, with great characters, and there's a bit to love for everyone.
October 2, 2019
She’s a mother that does not take no for an answer concerning her daughter that has Down syndrome she has had many people telling her what to do ever since before birth on what to do with her daughter including having an abortion. And now her little girl wants to be in a pageant and she does everything in her will to give her little girl her wish. When her little girl is denied.
Mateo family owns the pageant and he is newly in charge of it after her daughter does not get in she pays him a visit I like how she takes up for her daughter and that it was her daughter’s choice to be in the pageant. Anyway Mateo is the pageant director, he proposed to his girlfriend but she said no in front of their family and friends when her meets Larissa he thinks she is beautiful .
There is a lot going on with the pageant and there is also the romance between Mateo and Larissa, Larissa’s character sort of changed after her daughter got in and she started acting like a real stage mom and the other mothers did not like her too much. But she didn’t really care at all. I loved that she had a backbone and she was a strong character. And Mateo he is a family man he’s a good guy and I liked these two together and best of all he also loved her daughter.
I voluntarily received an arc copy through Booksprout for my honest review.
Mateo family owns the pageant and he is newly in charge of it after her daughter does not get in she pays him a visit I like how she takes up for her daughter and that it was her daughter’s choice to be in the pageant. Anyway Mateo is the pageant director, he proposed to his girlfriend but she said no in front of their family and friends when her meets Larissa he thinks she is beautiful .
There is a lot going on with the pageant and there is also the romance between Mateo and Larissa, Larissa’s character sort of changed after her daughter got in and she started acting like a real stage mom and the other mothers did not like her too much. But she didn’t really care at all. I loved that she had a backbone and she was a strong character. And Mateo he is a family man he’s a good guy and I liked these two together and best of all he also loved her daughter.
I voluntarily received an arc copy through Booksprout for my honest review.
October 21, 2019
Stage Mom is the story of Larissa, a single mom who has a daughter participating in the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant, and Mateo, the new director of the Little Miss Rehoboth pageant. The pageant has been run by Mateo’s family for years and this is the first year he has been trusted to run the pageant by himself.
Larissa is fighting to make sure her very special daughter is treated the same as all the other children in the pageant while fighting her attraction to Mateo. Mateo is trying his best to make the pageant better than anything in the past by making some radical changes that not everyone approves of, while also struggling to keep his feelings for Larissa to himself. Getting involved with the mother of a contestant might just be too radical for the naysayers in town that are already scrutinizing him for his changes.
I love this story. I especially loved Hailey, Larissa’s daughter. If anything I wanted more of Hailey and her interactions with Mateo. I really loved her nickname for Mateo.
I have loved all of the Romance in Rehoboth stories each one seems better than the last and this one is no exception. The best one yet!
Larissa is fighting to make sure her very special daughter is treated the same as all the other children in the pageant while fighting her attraction to Mateo. Mateo is trying his best to make the pageant better than anything in the past by making some radical changes that not everyone approves of, while also struggling to keep his feelings for Larissa to himself. Getting involved with the mother of a contestant might just be too radical for the naysayers in town that are already scrutinizing him for his changes.
I love this story. I especially loved Hailey, Larissa’s daughter. If anything I wanted more of Hailey and her interactions with Mateo. I really loved her nickname for Mateo.
I have loved all of the Romance in Rehoboth stories each one seems better than the last and this one is no exception. The best one yet!
September 18, 2019
I loved this book. I want to fly to the USA and go find these characters and hug them (they are real, right?)
This writer is amazing, her characters are real people, flawed and wonderful. They live in a world where things need to be challenged, such as discrimination and they aren’t afraid of the fight. But yet, it’s a sympathetic part of the story, not The story. Hard issues are dealt with appropriately and are well written. This lady takes pride in her craft and it should be recognised.
Larissa, Mateo and the beautiful Ladybug deserve their HEA and my heart was happy when I finished their story. So what if that means upsetting the Applecart on decades of family/town tradition? At least the rotten apples get the exposed.
This writer is amazing, her characters are real people, flawed and wonderful. They live in a world where things need to be challenged, such as discrimination and they aren’t afraid of the fight. But yet, it’s a sympathetic part of the story, not The story. Hard issues are dealt with appropriately and are well written. This lady takes pride in her craft and it should be recognised.
Larissa, Mateo and the beautiful Ladybug deserve their HEA and my heart was happy when I finished their story. So what if that means upsetting the Applecart on decades of family/town tradition? At least the rotten apples get the exposed.
September 28, 2019
I absolutely adored this book. It's a close run for favourtie book by this author along with Fat Girl. Some of the characters from the Romance in Rehoboth series make an appearance in this one, but it can easily be read as a standalone. Larissa rocks, she's like so many mothers I know, in that she will do her utmost to ensure that her child gets what she needs, even if that isn't something she wants. I loved the way the diversity is treated here, Ms Montgomery is not afraid to show discrimination or cruel behaviour towards others who may be perceived as being a little different, but it's done in an open, caring manner without being judgemental herself. This is such a sweet and funny read. Definitely a 1 click book.
September 30, 2019
I love this series, it's got great balance of serious issues and light moments. Stage Mom is about Larissa, who is a mama bear not unused to standing up for someone who needs it. I love how she helps Mateo find his voice and backbone. And how they fall for one another.
While there are previous characters mentioned, you can absolutely read this as stand alone. Some moments really ticked me off- in this book, sometimes adults are protesting kid related events in such a way that it feels like they are attacking the children. But this sort of thing happens in real life, too! It shocks me, the cruelty of people. But on a brighter side, this author writes real and realistic characters. They are easy to root for and easy for us, as readers to love.
While there are previous characters mentioned, you can absolutely read this as stand alone. Some moments really ticked me off- in this book, sometimes adults are protesting kid related events in such a way that it feels like they are attacking the children. But this sort of thing happens in real life, too! It shocks me, the cruelty of people. But on a brighter side, this author writes real and realistic characters. They are easy to root for and easy for us, as readers to love.
October 7, 2019
What a wonderful story! I knew there was going to be some tougher topics in this book, but I still wasn't really sure what to expect. There were a few "hot topic" struggles in this story, and I have to say K.L. Montgomery nailed it! She could not have portrayed how detrimental and hurtful discrimination can be any better and in such a heartfelt way, and I absolutely adored how the main characters stood steadfastly against such discrimination.
The love story here is more than just the traditional "boy meets girl" tale. There is romance, but there is also love for humanity, diversity, and inclusion. This was such a sweet story, and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it.
The love story here is more than just the traditional "boy meets girl" tale. There is romance, but there is also love for humanity, diversity, and inclusion. This was such a sweet story, and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it.
September 21, 2019
I was given this as an ARC by the author. You can read this even if you haven’t read any others from this series. Hailey a Down syndrome child is adamant about joining the area beauty pageant so Larissa her mom goes along with it. Little did she know what it would entail for the both of them going through with the beauty pageant. The array of people in this book is wonderful. You may come across a few characters from the other books in this series but that’s ok. I love Mrs. Robinson and the love she has for Hailey as her own granddaughter and Mateos love for her even with the Down syndrome.
September 28, 2019
Loved this sweet story! Larissa is a strong woman who fights for her little girl to make sure she has everything she needs and wants. Unexpectedly, she meets a man (Mateo) who runs right into what her daughter wants and gets a fight. Little did she know it wasn’t the only fight she would have. She fought to get Mateo to realize who he really is and make things better for all of the kids in their town! Loved the cameos from the other characters in the series and this story fit in perfectly! A great book from K.L and definitely worth the read!
October 12, 2019
I loved Mateo & Larissa's story. Ms. Montgomery does a beautiful job of making us think about true inclusion of others in our everyday lives. There's no preaching. It's gentle and effective. A true reveal of the her gift of writing. Claire's role in this book is so wonderful, her strength shining above all the animosity. I loved the angst between Mateo and his family and how it affected his and Larissa's relationship. Oh, I can't forget about Hailey! What a gem! I could go on and on, but I don't want to spoil anything. Except- Refa's song!
October 1, 2019
This is such a good book and it's a realistic portrait of small town life. Larissa is a strong person that stand up for her daughter and I love how she doesn't back down. Some people are just cruel and need to learn that our differences is what makes us beautiful. This is a great story. You will not be disappointed in Larissa and Mateo's story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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