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Full Bloom Farm #2
Sweet Pea Summer
Can you ever really forget your first love?
It’s been eight long years since May Anderson’s high school sweetheart Tom Riley drove down Main Street in his truck, leaving Hillsboro—and May—in his rearview mirror. Now he’s back and, try as they might, the pair can’t avoid each other.
As Hillsboro prepares to host the prestigious North West Food and Wine Festival, Tom and May are reluctantly called in to plan the big event. Tom needs May’s help to repair his bad-boy reputation and, with the whole town counting on them, May and Tom need to learn to trust each other again.
May is determined to protect her heart, but a lot has changed since high school. She can’t help but notice how the skinny boy she used to know is now a man who perfectly fills out his button-down, and Tom can’t seem to tear his gaze away from May’s sweet smile. It’s clear old feelings are surfacing again, but there is a secret keeping them apart and, until they find the courage to face it, their second chance summer will be only that…
A heartwarming story about first love, family and the importance of second chances. Fans of Jenny Hale, Debbie Macomber and Robyn Carr will adore Sweet Pea Summer.
It’s been eight long years since May Anderson’s high school sweetheart Tom Riley drove down Main Street in his truck, leaving Hillsboro—and May—in his rearview mirror. Now he’s back and, try as they might, the pair can’t avoid each other.
As Hillsboro prepares to host the prestigious North West Food and Wine Festival, Tom and May are reluctantly called in to plan the big event. Tom needs May’s help to repair his bad-boy reputation and, with the whole town counting on them, May and Tom need to learn to trust each other again.
May is determined to protect her heart, but a lot has changed since high school. She can’t help but notice how the skinny boy she used to know is now a man who perfectly fills out his button-down, and Tom can’t seem to tear his gaze away from May’s sweet smile. It’s clear old feelings are surfacing again, but there is a secret keeping them apart and, until they find the courage to face it, their second chance summer will be only that…
A heartwarming story about first love, family and the importance of second chances. Fans of Jenny Hale, Debbie Macomber and Robyn Carr will adore Sweet Pea Summer.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2020
410 people are currently reading
408 people want to read
About the author
Alys Murray
15 books154 followersAlys Murray is an author who writes for the romantic in all of us. Though she graduated with a degree in Drama from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and a Master’s in Film Studies from King’s College London, her irrepressible love of romance led her to a career as an author, and she couldn’t be happier to write these stories!
Her work as an author led to a flourishing career in screenwriting, where she has penned films and shows for Hallmark, ViacomCBS, Lifetime, and British television. An alum of RespectAbility, The Inevitable Foundation, and The Orchard Project, she is a tireless disability advocate.
Alys loves connecting with readers, so if you want to get in touch, you can find her at http://www.alysmurray.com or on twitter and instagram at @writeralys.
Her work as an author led to a flourishing career in screenwriting, where she has penned films and shows for Hallmark, ViacomCBS, Lifetime, and British television. An alum of RespectAbility, The Inevitable Foundation, and The Orchard Project, she is a tireless disability advocate.
Alys loves connecting with readers, so if you want to get in touch, you can find her at http://www.alysmurray.com or on twitter and instagram at @writeralys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
June 17, 2020
A charming small town second chance summertime romance. Alys Murray tugged on my heartstrings with her delightful storytelling. Nothing like a second chance romance to hit me in the feels. May and Tom were high school sweethearts with dreams of traveling the world and being together forever. The night after graduation Tom packed up his truck with all his worldly goods and May tells him she cannot join him. It is years later and Tom is back in town, but the small town is unforgiving. You see May pretty much let everyone think that Tom had left her rather than her calling things off. So when Tom and May are thrown together to plan the town’s festival everyone is quick to defend May’s honor. But the spark between Tom and May is still there, strong and undeniable. So will May be able to forgive herself and finally go after the boy she’s always loved? *sigh*
Loved every minute I spent reading this adorable story. May and Tom were just too perfect together my heart was aching for them to get back together. I loved the small town and the family dynamics in the story. I wasn’t always quite sure why everyone was so upset with Tom supposedly ending things with May when he was 18? And I really didn’t understand why May just didn’t fess up? But I’ve never lived in a small town. Such a sweet heartwarming story that made me all gooey inside. Cannot wait for the next book in this fun flowery series.
This book in emojis 🐝 🍷 🐶 🌸 🍯 ⛲️
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Loved every minute I spent reading this adorable story. May and Tom were just too perfect together my heart was aching for them to get back together. I loved the small town and the family dynamics in the story. I wasn’t always quite sure why everyone was so upset with Tom supposedly ending things with May when he was 18? And I really didn’t understand why May just didn’t fess up? But I’ve never lived in a small town. Such a sweet heartwarming story that made me all gooey inside. Cannot wait for the next book in this fun flowery series.
This book in emojis 🐝 🍷 🐶 🌸 🍯 ⛲️
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
November 24, 2020
Sweet Pea Summer by Alys Murray is the second book in the contemporary romance Full Bloom Farm series. Each book of this series does change the main characters so each book is a full romance on it’s own and can be read as a standalone. While the first book of the series had an opposites attract storyline this one also changes into a second chance romance.
The second of the Anderson sisters, May Anderson, also has been working in the family’s flower farm in Hillsboro County, California. It’s been eight years since her only serious relationship ended with her high school sweetheart Tom Riley when Tom packed up and left their small town and May behind but now Tom has returned.
May doesn’t really want to be anywhere near Tom now that he’s back in town but then Tom and May get paired together to help plan the North West Food and Wine Festival. As May works closely with Tom planning the event the two of them finally get a chance to visit their past which brings the old feelings back once again.
This series is definitely for all those that love getting the feels from charming small town sweet romances. I loved the way we changed over to a second chance romance in this story so that the characters have a past to build on. The story is also expanded by the town thinking one thing of their parting and the truth finally coming to light. Just another great addition to the series!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The second of the Anderson sisters, May Anderson, also has been working in the family’s flower farm in Hillsboro County, California. It’s been eight years since her only serious relationship ended with her high school sweetheart Tom Riley when Tom packed up and left their small town and May behind but now Tom has returned.
May doesn’t really want to be anywhere near Tom now that he’s back in town but then Tom and May get paired together to help plan the North West Food and Wine Festival. As May works closely with Tom planning the event the two of them finally get a chance to visit their past which brings the old feelings back once again.
This series is definitely for all those that love getting the feels from charming small town sweet romances. I loved the way we changed over to a second chance romance in this story so that the characters have a past to build on. The story is also expanded by the town thinking one thing of their parting and the truth finally coming to light. Just another great addition to the series!
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
June 19, 2020
My Rating:
3.5
Favorite Quotes:
In the small town of Hillsboro, California, rumors were like honey. Sweet. Addictive. And, once stained, impossible to get out except with a good, long, painful scrubbing.
I look like a puddle of sweat made sentient by an evil witch.
Small town decorum dictated that if you said something with enough polite charm, you could get away with pretty much anything.
I’d rather be hated for telling the truth than loved for being a liar.
My Review:
This tale combined several genres, women’s fiction, family drama, small town, and contemporary and second chance romance. The storylines were light and sizzle free and would receive a seal of approval from my elderly mother’s book club. Small town issues and amusing characters and quirks were front and center, although I had a difficult time appreciating the character of May as I found her lacking in integrity, as she was essentially a selfish and cowardly weasel. But I also know that condition is one of the pitfalls of being small-town and having a gossipy social conscious snob for a mother, and also one of the reasons why I beat feet and couldn’t get away from the inbred hillbilly haven of my youth fast enough. Despite my lack of regard for the self-serving and deceitful May, I was curious and enjoyed the amusing observations, peculiar characters, and continuing storylines from the first book.
3.5
Favorite Quotes:
In the small town of Hillsboro, California, rumors were like honey. Sweet. Addictive. And, once stained, impossible to get out except with a good, long, painful scrubbing.
I look like a puddle of sweat made sentient by an evil witch.
Small town decorum dictated that if you said something with enough polite charm, you could get away with pretty much anything.
I’d rather be hated for telling the truth than loved for being a liar.
My Review:
This tale combined several genres, women’s fiction, family drama, small town, and contemporary and second chance romance. The storylines were light and sizzle free and would receive a seal of approval from my elderly mother’s book club. Small town issues and amusing characters and quirks were front and center, although I had a difficult time appreciating the character of May as I found her lacking in integrity, as she was essentially a selfish and cowardly weasel. But I also know that condition is one of the pitfalls of being small-town and having a gossipy social conscious snob for a mother, and also one of the reasons why I beat feet and couldn’t get away from the inbred hillbilly haven of my youth fast enough. Despite my lack of regard for the self-serving and deceitful May, I was curious and enjoyed the amusing observations, peculiar characters, and continuing storylines from the first book.
February 11, 2023
What is your favorite holiday? What are you reading for Valentine's Day?
Sweet Pea Summer by Alys Murray
Book #2 of Full Bloom Farm
#Bookmail #Review
262 pgs.
My thoughts:
Alys Murray's Sweet Pea Summer is the second book in the Full Bloom Farm series. My heartstrings were tugged by this cozy and charming small town "second chance" romance. Alys Murray's writing is sweet and touching. Clean and appropriate for all adult audiences, this quick read is a worthwhile choice.
Synopsis:
In a cloud of dust, May Anderson's high school boyfriend Tom Riley left Hillsboro, California and her behind eight years ago. Despite their best efforts, the pair can't escape each other now that he's back in town.
Unfortunately, Tom must seek May's assistance in repairing his bad-boy reputation. Despite May's desire to protect herself from Tom's charm, will they be able to rebuild trust?
Thank you Alys Murray, @HachetteBookGroup and @ReadForeverPub for my complimentary copy of this beautiful book. It was a pleasure to read and review!
#SweetPeaSummer #AlysMurray #HachetteBooksSocialClub #HachetteBooks #HachetteGo #HachetteBookGroup #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #blogtour #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #Audible #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagram
Sweet Pea Summer by Alys Murray
Book #2 of Full Bloom Farm
#Bookmail #Review
262 pgs.
My thoughts:
Alys Murray's Sweet Pea Summer is the second book in the Full Bloom Farm series. My heartstrings were tugged by this cozy and charming small town "second chance" romance. Alys Murray's writing is sweet and touching. Clean and appropriate for all adult audiences, this quick read is a worthwhile choice.
Synopsis:
In a cloud of dust, May Anderson's high school boyfriend Tom Riley left Hillsboro, California and her behind eight years ago. Despite their best efforts, the pair can't escape each other now that he's back in town.
Unfortunately, Tom must seek May's assistance in repairing his bad-boy reputation. Despite May's desire to protect herself from Tom's charm, will they be able to rebuild trust?
Thank you Alys Murray, @HachetteBookGroup and @ReadForeverPub for my complimentary copy of this beautiful book. It was a pleasure to read and review!
#SweetPeaSummer #AlysMurray #HachetteBooksSocialClub #HachetteBooks #HachetteGo #HachetteBookGroup #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #blogtour #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #Audible #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagram
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September 29, 2020Second chance romance in a small town setting along with a sweet prose made this book and escape read. May could have been developed better, But nonetheless, the emotions and quirky characters more than made up for it.
Overall, it was a sweet read
Overall, it was a sweet read
January 6, 2023
I loved my quick visit to Hillsboro County in California and my time with the Anderson sisters! This is book two in the Hillsboro Flower Farm series and it features the youngest Anderson sister, May, who reneged on her deal with her boyfriend to leave town after the night after their high school graduation party. Eight years later he’s back in town and it’s obvious they’ve never been able to get over each other.
This is a sweet small town second chance romance that explores whether we can ever really forget our first love and reminds us that we need to face our past before we can move on with our future. The focus is on reconciliation. There are secrets to uncover and meddling sisters to sidestep, businesses to keep afloat, a food and wine festival to organize and lots of angst and regrets to work through. Can this couple make it, the second time around?
My only challenge was May! I struggled to identify with her. Perhaps it was her personality, her narrow outlook or perhaps it was my difficulty as a big-city girl trying to understand a small-town girl’s actions. I don’t know, but I didn't understand the reactions of the townspeople towards Tom and wonder if May could have made it easier for him. Tom was easy to love and carried the story. I’m looking forward to book three and getting to know the third Anderson sister, Rose.
Wine, flowers, siblings and sweet romance?! It’s a great choice for a quick read.
Murray always creates an original pie recipe with every book she writes, and this one is no exception. Mmmmm. Looking forward to a baking weekend.
I was gifted this copy by Forever, Grand Central Publishing, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This is a sweet small town second chance romance that explores whether we can ever really forget our first love and reminds us that we need to face our past before we can move on with our future. The focus is on reconciliation. There are secrets to uncover and meddling sisters to sidestep, businesses to keep afloat, a food and wine festival to organize and lots of angst and regrets to work through. Can this couple make it, the second time around?
My only challenge was May! I struggled to identify with her. Perhaps it was her personality, her narrow outlook or perhaps it was my difficulty as a big-city girl trying to understand a small-town girl’s actions. I don’t know, but I didn't understand the reactions of the townspeople towards Tom and wonder if May could have made it easier for him. Tom was easy to love and carried the story. I’m looking forward to book three and getting to know the third Anderson sister, Rose.
Wine, flowers, siblings and sweet romance?! It’s a great choice for a quick read.
Murray always creates an original pie recipe with every book she writes, and this one is no exception. Mmmmm. Looking forward to a baking weekend.
I was gifted this copy by Forever, Grand Central Publishing, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 4, 2020
Book two in the series from Ms. Murray read like that of a binge-worthy weekend of Hart of Dixie. May and Tom are given a second chance after their high school "fall out." A story about second chances for the younger generation. I also enjoyed the 80s movie and TV references in this story, making it fun to read. And who doesn't love a wine festival in a story!?!
August 30, 2020
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!
As y’all know, I’m not usually much of a romance reader, but I got a thing for Alys’ books so here I am again! I read the first book in this series, The Magnolia Sisters, a while ago and as I predicted in the review, this book is about my least favourite sister- May Anderson.
In the beginning of The Magnolia Sisters, we are introduced to Tom Riley who was then engaged to Annie Martin, and who is the reason Harper ends up meeting her husband-to-be and Annie’s sister, Luke. By the end of the book, however, Tom has been in this town for a few months, him and May have shared a few awkward moments (because of their very public history), and he has also been very ceremoniously dumped by Annie. This book now takes place a year into the future- Tom is single and sad, the town hates him, and turns out, May is a big, fat liar!
I know it’s unfair, but I honestly hated May from the first page of the Magnolia Sisters, and familiarity has only bred contempt in me. While I think this is definitely one of the best written books in Alys’ blacklist - I was drawn in right away, I didn’t think there were any phrases or sentences anywhere, the characters were well done, etc, etc,.- I just haaaated May so much and that totally messed with the experience of reading this book for me. It’s very much just a personal problem though- I don’t think May is a bad character or that she is badly written, I just think she’s one of those people that I, personally, can’t stand is all xD
The story is pretty good, if slightly formulaic, and, like I said, it keeps your attention the whole time. I honestly don’t have much to say because any nice feelings and sweet things I usually talk about were all absent because May Anderson made me wish that this book actually ended at the break-up part of the story and not at the happily ever after part. (Would you believe me if I told you I cheered when she got broken up with? You should, because I did xD). And honestly, she would’ve stayed miserable and alone and kept me happy if boomers hadn’t gotten involved in her business smh. It’s like I’m the villain in Scooby Doo, but the gang ruining my life is the exact opposite of “kids”.
Anyway, I’m happy I did finally read it though, because it was nice to see Harper, Luke, Rose and Annie, even if it was only for a little bit! And I’m excited to continue on with the series! Also, yes, definitely check this series - and this author - out if you’re looking for some sweet, charming small town romances! Ciao!
As y’all know, I’m not usually much of a romance reader, but I got a thing for Alys’ books so here I am again! I read the first book in this series, The Magnolia Sisters, a while ago and as I predicted in the review, this book is about my least favourite sister- May Anderson.
In the beginning of The Magnolia Sisters, we are introduced to Tom Riley who was then engaged to Annie Martin, and who is the reason Harper ends up meeting her husband-to-be and Annie’s sister, Luke. By the end of the book, however, Tom has been in this town for a few months, him and May have shared a few awkward moments (because of their very public history), and he has also been very ceremoniously dumped by Annie. This book now takes place a year into the future- Tom is single and sad, the town hates him, and turns out, May is a big, fat liar!
I know it’s unfair, but I honestly hated May from the first page of the Magnolia Sisters, and familiarity has only bred contempt in me. While I think this is definitely one of the best written books in Alys’ blacklist - I was drawn in right away, I didn’t think there were any phrases or sentences anywhere, the characters were well done, etc, etc,.- I just haaaated May so much and that totally messed with the experience of reading this book for me. It’s very much just a personal problem though- I don’t think May is a bad character or that she is badly written, I just think she’s one of those people that I, personally, can’t stand is all xD
The story is pretty good, if slightly formulaic, and, like I said, it keeps your attention the whole time. I honestly don’t have much to say because any nice feelings and sweet things I usually talk about were all absent because May Anderson made me wish that this book actually ended at the break-up part of the story and not at the happily ever after part. (Would you believe me if I told you I cheered when she got broken up with? You should, because I did xD). And honestly, she would’ve stayed miserable and alone and kept me happy if boomers hadn’t gotten involved in her business smh. It’s like I’m the villain in Scooby Doo, but the gang ruining my life is the exact opposite of “kids”.
Anyway, I’m happy I did finally read it though, because it was nice to see Harper, Luke, Rose and Annie, even if it was only for a little bit! And I’m excited to continue on with the series! Also, yes, definitely check this series - and this author - out if you’re looking for some sweet, charming small town romances! Ciao!
June 18, 2020
We first met the Anderson sisters (Harper, Rose and May) in The Magnolia Sisters, and we’ve moved from the fast-paced and often prickly Harper onto the gentler and far more restrained May. When she and Tom broke up after high school, Tom moved on to other places and learned new things, while May has been ‘stuck’ doing what is expected, worrying about everyone but her own opinion, and simply ignoring what she didn’t want to see. Remaining mute about the break-up left Tom as the “bad guy”, and in this little town, the rumors and ostracism are pointed and complete.
But the story isn’t over: and May is still undeniably attracted to Tom, even as he’s upset with her, and the town. Not so upset that he refuses to keep her secrets, but his winery, started by his grandmother, is failing without the local’s support, and he’s months from losing everything. Adding to the mix, Tom’s finally seen the May he loved buried under the May that is now- buttoned up, rigid, running from her feelings and even hiding the truth.
Slowly but surely the two start to discover who they are now, and find the sparks are still there –but there has to be trust between them, and to find that, May has to face her worst fears and admit to a lie of omission made all those years before. With plenty of input from her sisters, parents and even the town, a last-minute assignment as the two plan THE festival that will put the town on the map and give both the flower farm and Tom’s vineyards a boost, there’s plenty to unpack as both find a way to the truth of them.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
But the story isn’t over: and May is still undeniably attracted to Tom, even as he’s upset with her, and the town. Not so upset that he refuses to keep her secrets, but his winery, started by his grandmother, is failing without the local’s support, and he’s months from losing everything. Adding to the mix, Tom’s finally seen the May he loved buried under the May that is now- buttoned up, rigid, running from her feelings and even hiding the truth.
Slowly but surely the two start to discover who they are now, and find the sparks are still there –but there has to be trust between them, and to find that, May has to face her worst fears and admit to a lie of omission made all those years before. With plenty of input from her sisters, parents and even the town, a last-minute assignment as the two plan THE festival that will put the town on the map and give both the flower farm and Tom’s vineyards a boost, there’s plenty to unpack as both find a way to the truth of them.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
June 5, 2023
I read the fourth book in the Full Bloom Farm series last year and I wanted to go back and read the rest. Sweet Pea Summer is the second book in the series and when I saw that my library had the audiobook, I added it to my summer reads. May Anderson is the youngest of four sisters. Eight years ago, she had agreed to leave town after high school graduation with her boyfriend, Tom Riley. When she got cold feet, she broke up with him and he left. All these years, she has let everyone in town think he left her. When he returned to run the family winery, his reputation is in ruins and the business is going under because people are not buying their wine. Hillsboro is hosting the Northwest Food and Wine Festival, and when something happens to the organizers, Tom and May step in with some coercion from family and friends. This throws them together and they realize that they still care for each other. Will they be able to get beyond the lies and betrayal for a second chance at love?
Sweet Pea Summer is set in a charming town with all the busybodies and do-gooders put in full force. May is the sweetheart of town who was dumped and everyone is worried what will happen between her and Tom. They think he should leave town, or at least leave her alone. Tom has recently had his wedding called off, so he has his own issues to deal with, besides trying to save his family business. May's sisters and friends are a hoot. They will do whatever it takes to make her happy and when Tom's ex-fiancé was instrumental in putting them together, I figured it was fate. I enjoyed all the characters in this story and although I thought the roadblock that almost derailed their relationship a bit weak, overall, I enjoyed this second chance romance. Jennifer Woodward does a nice job with the narration. She makes the story comfortable and enjoyable for the listener.
Sweet Pea Summer is set in a charming town with all the busybodies and do-gooders put in full force. May is the sweetheart of town who was dumped and everyone is worried what will happen between her and Tom. They think he should leave town, or at least leave her alone. Tom has recently had his wedding called off, so he has his own issues to deal with, besides trying to save his family business. May's sisters and friends are a hoot. They will do whatever it takes to make her happy and when Tom's ex-fiancé was instrumental in putting them together, I figured it was fate. I enjoyed all the characters in this story and although I thought the roadblock that almost derailed their relationship a bit weak, overall, I enjoyed this second chance romance. Jennifer Woodward does a nice job with the narration. She makes the story comfortable and enjoyable for the listener.
June 19, 2020
The author takes us back to Hillboro where we meet the Andersons again and it’s great to see them.
In the first part we are introduced to them, but the focus is on the second daughter Harper. Now the spotlight is on Amelia or better known as May, the youngest one.
Lying is when you don’t tell the truth. That’s not rocket science. You also lie though when people assume something is true and you know it isn’t but you choose to keep schtum to protect yourself.
You feel ashamed, but you are afraid to come clean. So you hide while you drown in regrets and wish you could turn back the clock and do it all very differently.
If you want a chance to make things better, there is only one thing to do: fess up and accept the consequences either good or bad …
It was great to be back in the small village. I love the way the people stand up for each other, but on the other hand it also means that they close ranks when they don’t like what they think you have done. It’s a two edged sword.
True love always wins. Sometimes you have to climb some huge mountains to get there, but when you keep believing, you will get there.
I suppose the author will treat us to the story of Rose next time. Looking forward to it. 4 stars.
Thank you, Alys Murray and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
In the first part we are introduced to them, but the focus is on the second daughter Harper. Now the spotlight is on Amelia or better known as May, the youngest one.
Lying is when you don’t tell the truth. That’s not rocket science. You also lie though when people assume something is true and you know it isn’t but you choose to keep schtum to protect yourself.
You feel ashamed, but you are afraid to come clean. So you hide while you drown in regrets and wish you could turn back the clock and do it all very differently.
If you want a chance to make things better, there is only one thing to do: fess up and accept the consequences either good or bad …
It was great to be back in the small village. I love the way the people stand up for each other, but on the other hand it also means that they close ranks when they don’t like what they think you have done. It’s a two edged sword.
True love always wins. Sometimes you have to climb some huge mountains to get there, but when you keep believing, you will get there.
I suppose the author will treat us to the story of Rose next time. Looking forward to it. 4 stars.
Thank you, Alys Murray and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
January 23, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me an ARC! It was a good book.
Tom and May were high-school sweethearts in Hillboro. They were supposed to leave together after graduation and get away. But alas that didn't happen and May broke up with him believing the town and them saying he wasn't good enough. But those feelings for him did not go away like she thought they did.
May runs a business with her bees and makes goodies with honey. She also sells the queen bees to keep the population going. Her friend Annie basically throws her into being in charge of the North West Food and Wine Fest. Annie knows the past of Tom and of May and then suggests that Tom should co-chair with her since his family owns the winery.
They both realize how well they still work together how easy it is to laugh and talk.
Do you think they are meant for each other? Do you think the bad name that Tom has because the town thought that he broke May's heart when really it was the other way around? Do you think May can step out and take chances?
Read the book!
Tom and May were high-school sweethearts in Hillboro. They were supposed to leave together after graduation and get away. But alas that didn't happen and May broke up with him believing the town and them saying he wasn't good enough. But those feelings for him did not go away like she thought they did.
May runs a business with her bees and makes goodies with honey. She also sells the queen bees to keep the population going. Her friend Annie basically throws her into being in charge of the North West Food and Wine Fest. Annie knows the past of Tom and of May and then suggests that Tom should co-chair with her since his family owns the winery.
They both realize how well they still work together how easy it is to laugh and talk.
Do you think they are meant for each other? Do you think the bad name that Tom has because the town thought that he broke May's heart when really it was the other way around? Do you think May can step out and take chances?
Read the book!
March 14, 2024
When reading Sweet Pea Summer I was immersed in the quaint yet tangled dynamics of a small town romance.
May’s high school sweetheart, Tom, departs for greener pastures, and their breakup leaves ripples of unresolved emotions.
Years later, Tom’s unexpected return stirs up suspicion among the tight-knit community, who were led to believe he was the one who ended things.
May grapples with her past choices and present feelings.
I was swept up by this lovely book!
It navigates the complexities of forgiveness, second chances, and the enduring sweetness of true love.
Coming from a small town originally myself, I was totally able to relate to the small town vibe and the sweet romance of this story.
I highly recommend it!
Although it is part of a series, I don’t believe I needed to have read the previous book to understand this one at all. They seem to be quite standalone books. Connected, but not necessary to read in order. I will definitely pick up more of these books.
Thankyou to Author Alys Murray, Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Charlene 🌸📚🤗 @lastnownext
May’s high school sweetheart, Tom, departs for greener pastures, and their breakup leaves ripples of unresolved emotions.
Years later, Tom’s unexpected return stirs up suspicion among the tight-knit community, who were led to believe he was the one who ended things.
May grapples with her past choices and present feelings.
I was swept up by this lovely book!
It navigates the complexities of forgiveness, second chances, and the enduring sweetness of true love.
Coming from a small town originally myself, I was totally able to relate to the small town vibe and the sweet romance of this story.
I highly recommend it!
Although it is part of a series, I don’t believe I needed to have read the previous book to understand this one at all. They seem to be quite standalone books. Connected, but not necessary to read in order. I will definitely pick up more of these books.
Thankyou to Author Alys Murray, Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Charlene 🌸📚🤗 @lastnownext
March 14, 2024
When reading Sweet Pea Summer I was immersed in the quaint yet tangled dynamics of a small town romance.
May’s high school sweetheart, Tom, departs for greener pastures, and their breakup leaves ripples of unresolved emotions.
Years later, Tom’s unexpected return stirs up suspicion among the tight-knit community, who were led to believe he was the one who ended things.
May grapples with her past choices and present feelings.
I was swept up by this lovely book!
It navigates the complexities of forgiveness, second chances, and the enduring sweetness of true love.
Coming from a small town originally myself, I was totally able to relate to the small town vibe and the sweet romance of this story.
I highly recommend it!
Although it is part of a series, I don’t believe I needed to have read the previous book to understand this one at all. They seem to be quite standalone books. Connected, but not necessary to read in order. I will definitely pick up more of these books.
Thankyou to Author Alys Murray, Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Charlene 🌸📚🤗 @lastnownext
May’s high school sweetheart, Tom, departs for greener pastures, and their breakup leaves ripples of unresolved emotions.
Years later, Tom’s unexpected return stirs up suspicion among the tight-knit community, who were led to believe he was the one who ended things.
May grapples with her past choices and present feelings.
I was swept up by this lovely book!
It navigates the complexities of forgiveness, second chances, and the enduring sweetness of true love.
Coming from a small town originally myself, I was totally able to relate to the small town vibe and the sweet romance of this story.
I highly recommend it!
Although it is part of a series, I don’t believe I needed to have read the previous book to understand this one at all. They seem to be quite standalone books. Connected, but not necessary to read in order. I will definitely pick up more of these books.
Thankyou to Author Alys Murray, Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Charlene 🌸📚🤗 @lastnownext
May 16, 2020
This is the second book in the Full Bloom Farm: Book 2). Three sisters, Rose, Harper and May, the Anderson girls. The first book centered on Harper and now its May's turn. Living in a small town there are lots of opinions on everything, mostly gossip about the comings and goings of the inhabitants. Now it is 8 years later, 8 years after May's sweetheart Tom Riley left the town of Hillsboro, alone without May. Back then they were in high school and it seemed May wasn't really interested in leaving town with Tom and now he's back. He isn't the skinny high school kid any longer, perhaps he's changed...his image as the town's bad boy needs to be refocused, is May willing to help, is she willing to trust him? This book about second chances was sweet, a warm story about love, family and trust. My thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2023
Trapped in a life she swore she did not want May has left her one-time true love to the wolves. Tom is back and trying to lend a helping hand, but at the cost of the town's ire for him. It's May's insistence that he left her eight years ago and not the other way around. Oh, what a tangled web we weave.
Sweat Pea Summer is a second-chance-romance filled with animosity, angst, forgiveness, and a sweet, longing that brings it all together in the end. A perfect spring reading re-issue from Forever Publishing.
~Tanja
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Sweat Pea Summer is a second-chance-romance filled with animosity, angst, forgiveness, and a sweet, longing that brings it all together in the end. A perfect spring reading re-issue from Forever Publishing.
~Tanja
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February 20, 2023
Short and sweet:
This book is an adorable palate cleanser. It’s a clean (yes, I will continue to use that phrase, no matter how many Twitter tantrums there are…I don’t consider “dirty” books to be bad, ok?) read all around, no language, sex, or violence issues, and though I just didn’t get May’s issues here, because teenage breakups are so far from the huge deal she and her neighbors made it, I really couldn’t put this down and enjoyed it. I’d read more from this author.
Thanks so much to Forever for sending me a free copy in exchange for a review.
This book is an adorable palate cleanser. It’s a clean (yes, I will continue to use that phrase, no matter how many Twitter tantrums there are…I don’t consider “dirty” books to be bad, ok?) read all around, no language, sex, or violence issues, and though I just didn’t get May’s issues here, because teenage breakups are so far from the huge deal she and her neighbors made it, I really couldn’t put this down and enjoyed it. I’d read more from this author.
Thanks so much to Forever for sending me a free copy in exchange for a review.
January 14, 2023
cute small town romance!
This is not my usual read but I did like it most of the time. The romance between Tom and May is second chance and very slow burn but you do root for them. You also very much get the small town feel of the book. May, however, was not my favorite. She had too many hang ups and while she does get over them, it was hard to understand them to begin with.
This is a good read for these who like small town, sweet, closed door romances.
This is not my usual read but I did like it most of the time. The romance between Tom and May is second chance and very slow burn but you do root for them. You also very much get the small town feel of the book. May, however, was not my favorite. She had too many hang ups and while she does get over them, it was hard to understand them to begin with.
This is a good read for these who like small town, sweet, closed door romances.
August 14, 2023
love it
Living a lie about oneself is one thing but when you involve someone who you are supposed to love is another. May Anderson is battling her lie by omission that began 8 years ago when she watched as Tom, the boy she loved drove off to explore the world. How does a person who is the victim of that lie forgive you and get on with life. Love can conquer anything but the truth can set May and Tom free if they let it….
Living a lie about oneself is one thing but when you involve someone who you are supposed to love is another. May Anderson is battling her lie by omission that began 8 years ago when she watched as Tom, the boy she loved drove off to explore the world. How does a person who is the victim of that lie forgive you and get on with life. Love can conquer anything but the truth can set May and Tom free if they let it….
June 27, 2025
This is a retelling of Jane Austen’s Persuasion, meh
June 23, 2020
A really enjoyable read - focusing on one of three sisters who was too scared to follow her dreams at the age of 18. Eight years later, her ex is back in town and she has to face up to him and herself. Great story of friendship, family, love and courage. I read the first book in this series and enjoyed it. There Is a little depth but the author’s style makes it an easy read.
Warm-hearted and absorbing, just what is needed in these challenging times. 4* from me, charming
Warm-hearted and absorbing, just what is needed in these challenging times. 4* from me, charming
July 30, 2020
Talk about two people who have no idea who they are, or what the other is capable of, that pretty much describes May and Tom, together with the town in which they lived. Such a lot of angst over so little!
March 1, 2023
I received this book for free, this does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
2.5 stars
The truth was that May Anderson left Tom Riley. You've got to remember that, because no one else in Hillsboro did.
The youngest Anderson sister has kept to herself ever since something happened between her and her highschool sweetheart Tom, caused him to leave town without her after graduation. May's sisters, parents, and whole town assumed Tom left her behind breaking her heart because in a small-town, youthful indiscretions, like accidentally throwing a baseball through a window, aren't forgotten and Tom got the reputation as a “bad boy”. May never told the truth, she ended up being too scared to trust Tom to leave her when they went into the big wide world and broke up with him. So May ended up being pitied and protected by the townspeople and not wanting to lose that, as her family's farm business relied on the towns good favor, she didn't correct anyone. But now Tom is back in town, trying to save his family's winery and seeing how everyone is treating him is making May feel very guilty and when they have to work together for a festival, old hurts and buried emotions are coming out in the open.
Even after everything, holding her this close was like coming home.
Second in the Full Bloom Farm series, Sweet Pea Summer brings readers back to the small-town of Hillsboro, CA and the Anderson family. If you read book one, you'll remember that Tom was engaged to Annie, the sister of book one's male main character but it didn't last long and they're just friends now. A lot of this story was spent in May and Tom's heads. The crux of the issue is that May doesn't want to admit that she lied by omission and let Tom unfairly take the blame for their break-up, the whole town treats him like dirt, causing his wine business to be suffering, but May doesn't want to tell the truth because she doesn't want the town to turn on her. It's cloaked in May wanting to stay in her “safe” life space but after two-hundred plus pages, it got frustrating and, frankly, whiny. It was all too drawn out and mewling and, as there are not flashbacks to the couple's romance in highschool, you'll begin to wonder why Tom is even waiting around for May.
She'd let the small-minded gossip of people they didn't even particularly like---gossip they'd spent most of their lives laughing at and ignoring---completely alter the trajectory of their lives.
The Anderson family and sisters, Harper and Rosie, for the most part, were out of the story but they came in a little at the end to hassle Tom, find out the truth and be angry with May, and then have their make-up scene. Dad Anderson shows up to have a father-daughter talk and Tom gets some friendship scenes with Annie and a kick in the pants talk from his grandmother but other than that, it's pretty much character head space and May-Tom interactions.
Why did he want nothing more than to throw the past away and start over with the one person who'd made that very thing so impossible?
This kisses only story had May and Tom mostly made-up a little after the half-way point and into the second half, May finally starts to take direct action to help Tom's reputation (still too scared to tell the truth, though). We then get a very late third act break-up that just about had me wishing they were done for good because of how ineffectual May was still being, our female main character gives us the Grand Gesture and it finishes with a happily ever after.
She'd missed him. And having to miss him in the first place was entirely her fault.
May was too scared to trust Tom and leave with him after graduation breaking both their hearts, lived the next eight years cocooned in a safe haven protected by the lie that gave her the goodwill of their small-town and Tom traveled the world lonely only to come back home and find out he was the “bad guy” and thought it was honorable to wait for May to the tell the truth. As May kept being quiet, it was harder for me to give her character the benefit of the doubt and therefore harder for me to cheer for their romance. This did have small-town vibes, cozy and mean gossip, a touch of women's fiction, and an eventual happily ever after.
2.5 stars
The truth was that May Anderson left Tom Riley. You've got to remember that, because no one else in Hillsboro did.
The youngest Anderson sister has kept to herself ever since something happened between her and her highschool sweetheart Tom, caused him to leave town without her after graduation. May's sisters, parents, and whole town assumed Tom left her behind breaking her heart because in a small-town, youthful indiscretions, like accidentally throwing a baseball through a window, aren't forgotten and Tom got the reputation as a “bad boy”. May never told the truth, she ended up being too scared to trust Tom to leave her when they went into the big wide world and broke up with him. So May ended up being pitied and protected by the townspeople and not wanting to lose that, as her family's farm business relied on the towns good favor, she didn't correct anyone. But now Tom is back in town, trying to save his family's winery and seeing how everyone is treating him is making May feel very guilty and when they have to work together for a festival, old hurts and buried emotions are coming out in the open.
Even after everything, holding her this close was like coming home.
Second in the Full Bloom Farm series, Sweet Pea Summer brings readers back to the small-town of Hillsboro, CA and the Anderson family. If you read book one, you'll remember that Tom was engaged to Annie, the sister of book one's male main character but it didn't last long and they're just friends now. A lot of this story was spent in May and Tom's heads. The crux of the issue is that May doesn't want to admit that she lied by omission and let Tom unfairly take the blame for their break-up, the whole town treats him like dirt, causing his wine business to be suffering, but May doesn't want to tell the truth because she doesn't want the town to turn on her. It's cloaked in May wanting to stay in her “safe” life space but after two-hundred plus pages, it got frustrating and, frankly, whiny. It was all too drawn out and mewling and, as there are not flashbacks to the couple's romance in highschool, you'll begin to wonder why Tom is even waiting around for May.
She'd let the small-minded gossip of people they didn't even particularly like---gossip they'd spent most of their lives laughing at and ignoring---completely alter the trajectory of their lives.
The Anderson family and sisters, Harper and Rosie, for the most part, were out of the story but they came in a little at the end to hassle Tom, find out the truth and be angry with May, and then have their make-up scene. Dad Anderson shows up to have a father-daughter talk and Tom gets some friendship scenes with Annie and a kick in the pants talk from his grandmother but other than that, it's pretty much character head space and May-Tom interactions.
Why did he want nothing more than to throw the past away and start over with the one person who'd made that very thing so impossible?
This kisses only story had May and Tom mostly made-up a little after the half-way point and into the second half, May finally starts to take direct action to help Tom's reputation (still too scared to tell the truth, though). We then get a very late third act break-up that just about had me wishing they were done for good because of how ineffectual May was still being, our female main character gives us the Grand Gesture and it finishes with a happily ever after.
She'd missed him. And having to miss him in the first place was entirely her fault.
May was too scared to trust Tom and leave with him after graduation breaking both their hearts, lived the next eight years cocooned in a safe haven protected by the lie that gave her the goodwill of their small-town and Tom traveled the world lonely only to come back home and find out he was the “bad guy” and thought it was honorable to wait for May to the tell the truth. As May kept being quiet, it was harder for me to give her character the benefit of the doubt and therefore harder for me to cheer for their romance. This did have small-town vibes, cozy and mean gossip, a touch of women's fiction, and an eventual happily ever after.
March 12, 2023
Sweet Pea Summer is a second book in the series, with Magnolia Sisters coming before this story. I hadn't known this and didn't read the previous book, so this book seemed complete as a stand-alone as it gives enough back story to the reader that nothing seems to be missing in the storyline. The story tells of a small town in northern California, where May and Tom, high school sweethearts, are running into each other again 8 years after their high school graduation break-up and having to determine what feelings they have towards one another after all of these years. Is there a spark of passionate love or is it just lingering hurt and anger? May remained in the town where she, her sisters and parents all live and work on the family farm. May appears to love and cherish her life there as she works with her bees to make honey, skin care products, candies and candles which she sells in her shop in the town square. The story seems at odds with this, however, as it keeps mentioning how she longs to escape the town, wishes she would have left when young, envisions the town and her life like a prison where she's stuck but there is never any mention of what she WANTS to do differently. Sure she wants to travel and see the world, but does she want a different career? Where does she want to live and what draws her there? Would she miss her shop and the bees that she seems to love? Similarly, Tom came back from traveling the world, learning about vineyards and winemaking to help his grandmother run her winery and wine shop that is doing poorly. The story repeatedly keeps blaming Tom for the wine shop doing poorly because the small town still holds a grudge against him for breaking May's heart. This is confusing because the wine shop was run by his grandmother and parents (not him until his return), so if it did so poorly in his absence, how was it his fault and after nearly a decade of no customers, how would it still even be open? And would a town no matter how small really care about how two teenagers broke up nearly a decade later? The story mainly focuses on how the town is hostile towards Tom and how May is too much of a coward to admit that she was the one who called it off, so the town should hold not hostility towards him. This repeats over and over in explanations, discussions, fights, and miscommunications between the couple, their friends and family. This is unfortunate, because if instead of that repetition, the story had actually focused on their relationships and better fleshed out their motivations and dreams and goals and desires, this could have been a 4 or 5 star book for me. Especially at the end, where this is again repeated and there is a break-up, which is confusing because Tom blames May for not telling the truth, which he actually knew all along. The ending, although it has a sweet conclusion, it ignores the questions of how will the winery survive? What will May choose to do with her bees and store? The book was an enjoyable read, with beautifully worded phrases, imaginative imagery of the characters and vivid descriptions of the farm, vineyard and small town.
June 24, 2020
Tom’s always had a reputation in town for being the bad boy, whether it’s true or not the residents of the town don’t care. A close knit community who like to gossip, one step wrong puts you in the people’s bad books forever! So when him and his ex girlfriend, May split up eight years ago, he got the brunt of the backlash and now his business is suffering.
May on the other hand is the town’s sweetheart but she’s harbouring a secret that no-one knows. When her and Tom are ‘volunteered’ to take over the planning of North West Food and Wine Festival, they need to put aside their differences to make it a success ~ Tom needs it and so does the town. But as they ease into each others company again, old feelings start surfacing, but with a big secret looming, will they make it through and have the second chance they deserve?
This was a charming story that I looked forward to reading each time I picked it up. Despite the things you learn about May, you can’t help but route for her and Tom. Tom is a darling ~ despite what the community think of him, we see the other side of him; the sweet man that came back to support his family. May is somewhat of a loner and keeps to herself, but at times I felt she came across as a bit of a brat! She frustrated me throughout the book and I just wanted to give her a slap and tell her to come clean!! But she eventually realises what is truly important and we see another side of her too.
I really loved the setting in the town of Hillsboro although I have to say I wouldn’t want to live there! The townsfolk are far too nosy and enjoy gossiping too much for my liking ~ they’d drive me nuts! But the town itself sounds like a lovely place, and I love that there are lots of local stores on the high street. It would be the sort of place I’d like to visit but not stay!
The story keeps you enthralled as you learn about Tom and May’s past, what’s happened since and then you go with them on the journey of getting to know each other again. They’re in for a bumpy ride but will it be worth it? There are moments in the story that will make your heart melt, times when you’ll want to hug the characters, and times (as I’ve said above) that you’d want to slap a few! There are also some fabulous supporting characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed this – it was a lovely and easy story to read and follow; perfect for reading on a summers evening with a glass of wine. I’ll definitely be looking out for more from this author. Highly recommend by me.
May on the other hand is the town’s sweetheart but she’s harbouring a secret that no-one knows. When her and Tom are ‘volunteered’ to take over the planning of North West Food and Wine Festival, they need to put aside their differences to make it a success ~ Tom needs it and so does the town. But as they ease into each others company again, old feelings start surfacing, but with a big secret looming, will they make it through and have the second chance they deserve?
This was a charming story that I looked forward to reading each time I picked it up. Despite the things you learn about May, you can’t help but route for her and Tom. Tom is a darling ~ despite what the community think of him, we see the other side of him; the sweet man that came back to support his family. May is somewhat of a loner and keeps to herself, but at times I felt she came across as a bit of a brat! She frustrated me throughout the book and I just wanted to give her a slap and tell her to come clean!! But she eventually realises what is truly important and we see another side of her too.
I really loved the setting in the town of Hillsboro although I have to say I wouldn’t want to live there! The townsfolk are far too nosy and enjoy gossiping too much for my liking ~ they’d drive me nuts! But the town itself sounds like a lovely place, and I love that there are lots of local stores on the high street. It would be the sort of place I’d like to visit but not stay!
The story keeps you enthralled as you learn about Tom and May’s past, what’s happened since and then you go with them on the journey of getting to know each other again. They’re in for a bumpy ride but will it be worth it? There are moments in the story that will make your heart melt, times when you’ll want to hug the characters, and times (as I’ve said above) that you’d want to slap a few! There are also some fabulous supporting characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed this – it was a lovely and easy story to read and follow; perfect for reading on a summers evening with a glass of wine. I’ll definitely be looking out for more from this author. Highly recommend by me.
February 20, 2023
May and Tom were high school sweethearts with dreams of traveling the world together. However, their relationship ended when Tom left town after graduation and left May behind. Now, eight years later, Tom returns to Hillsboro. When the pair are reluctantly paired up to organize a food and wine festival for their town, May is certain she’ll never forgive him for leaving her and breaking her heart. But, as May and Tom work together, old feelings start to resurface, and they must confront the events that drove them apart and secrets that hold them back in order to have a real second chance at their relationship.
This is a sweet and fun contemporary romance with such a charming setting. Hillsboro serves as a wonderful backdrop to the story. I love stories with settings like Hillsboro. The small-town charm and feeling where everyone knows everyone else creates a cozy and comforting community feel to the story. Of course, much like many small towns, news travels fast, and because of secrets and loyalty to May, the citizens treat Tom most unwelcomingly.
I liked Tom a bit more than May. She frustrated me at times, and I fell like some of her actions were really catty and mean. However, she endeared herself to me as the story went on, especially as she started to face her feelings and became more honest with herself and others.
It’s clear that underlying feelings still exist between May and Tom. However, lingering trust issues and secrets stand in their way, and it is unclear if they can work through these challenges and give their relationship another chance. It’s interesting to see whether their complicated relationship can blossom into something more permanent. The festival’s success also depends on the pair’s ability to overcome the past and work as a team, and I think the fact that they had to work together changed their relationship and forced them to face some hard truths.
Overall, I thought this was a sweet second-chance romance with characters who face their fears and their truths, take chances, and more. Special thanks to Forever Publishing for sending ,me a copy of the book. all thoughts are my own.
This is a sweet and fun contemporary romance with such a charming setting. Hillsboro serves as a wonderful backdrop to the story. I love stories with settings like Hillsboro. The small-town charm and feeling where everyone knows everyone else creates a cozy and comforting community feel to the story. Of course, much like many small towns, news travels fast, and because of secrets and loyalty to May, the citizens treat Tom most unwelcomingly.
I liked Tom a bit more than May. She frustrated me at times, and I fell like some of her actions were really catty and mean. However, she endeared herself to me as the story went on, especially as she started to face her feelings and became more honest with herself and others.
It’s clear that underlying feelings still exist between May and Tom. However, lingering trust issues and secrets stand in their way, and it is unclear if they can work through these challenges and give their relationship another chance. It’s interesting to see whether their complicated relationship can blossom into something more permanent. The festival’s success also depends on the pair’s ability to overcome the past and work as a team, and I think the fact that they had to work together changed their relationship and forced them to face some hard truths.
Overall, I thought this was a sweet second-chance romance with characters who face their fears and their truths, take chances, and more. Special thanks to Forever Publishing for sending ,me a copy of the book. all thoughts are my own.
June 14, 2020
Regrets, especially when it comes to the heart, can sometimes come back knocking on your door, or in the case for Sweet Pea Summer’s leading lady, May Anderson, shows up at her new best friend’s party in the form of her high school sweetheart, Tom Riley. The one who’s heart she broke, including her own, eight years ago.
Right away, I knew I was going to love Sweet Pea Summer. Murray's style of writing is descriptive, funny, and sweet all bundled perfectly together; making this story the perfect summer romance read. It is the second book of the Full Bloom Farm series but can lovingly be read as a standalone.
I must admit, this book ruined things for me. It set a standard of charm, romance, and lovability that will be incredibly difficult for other summer reads to outdo. The love story between May Anderson and Tom Riley is revealed from the start as the reader learns of May’s inner guilt and turmoil from letting the town’s rumours of what happened when the two broke up eight years earlier after high school graduation. These rumours ruin Tom’s reputation and as a result, affects his family’s wine business and May has a choice whether, to tell the truth, or continue the lie. The story becomes immediately interesting when May and Tom are pressured into working together as the hosts of the North West Food and Wine Festival. It’s through this monumental task that the former couple must make it work, as the entire town’s businesses-including their own, are depending on them putting Hillsboro to the map.
Also, there were SO many quotes throughout the book that made me love Murray’s writing and provides an indication of how enjoyable readers will find this story.
Overall, the only downfall for me was that I wish the book was a lot longer. However, I’m so happy to learn that there will another addition to the Full Bloom Farm series coming out in a couple of months!
Right away, I knew I was going to love Sweet Pea Summer. Murray's style of writing is descriptive, funny, and sweet all bundled perfectly together; making this story the perfect summer romance read. It is the second book of the Full Bloom Farm series but can lovingly be read as a standalone.
I must admit, this book ruined things for me. It set a standard of charm, romance, and lovability that will be incredibly difficult for other summer reads to outdo. The love story between May Anderson and Tom Riley is revealed from the start as the reader learns of May’s inner guilt and turmoil from letting the town’s rumours of what happened when the two broke up eight years earlier after high school graduation. These rumours ruin Tom’s reputation and as a result, affects his family’s wine business and May has a choice whether, to tell the truth, or continue the lie. The story becomes immediately interesting when May and Tom are pressured into working together as the hosts of the North West Food and Wine Festival. It’s through this monumental task that the former couple must make it work, as the entire town’s businesses-including their own, are depending on them putting Hillsboro to the map.
Also, there were SO many quotes throughout the book that made me love Murray’s writing and provides an indication of how enjoyable readers will find this story.
Overall, the only downfall for me was that I wish the book was a lot longer. However, I’m so happy to learn that there will another addition to the Full Bloom Farm series coming out in a couple of months!
June 17, 2020
I had thoroughly enjoyed reading The Magnolia Sisters so jumped at the opportunity to read this second book in the series. The first book featured Harper Anderson as the heroine and it is her younger sister May who is the star for this story. When May was seventeen she’d promised to leave Hillsboro with her high school sweetheart, Tom Riley. However, she changed her mind and he left alone. However, she never told anyone she was the one who changed her mind and Tom is facing community censure for breaking her heart even eight years later when he returns to his family vineyard.
When the organiser of the North West Food and Wine Festival has to pull out, May surprises everyone by jumping up to take over. That’s when her friend suggests that she needs an assistant and coerces Tom into taking that role. Will this be their opportunity to rekindle their teen romance? Can May be honest with everyone and show that Tom doesn’t deserve his bad reputation in the community? Can Tom help May organise the festival and save his family’s business? So many questions and you’ll just have to read it for yourself to discover the answers!
This is a lovely addition to this series, though I believe it would still work to read it as a standalone. May has protected herself by never revealing the truth but to win Tom’s trust and love she’ll need to be brave and let others know just what really happened. It is a story of a small community, family, friendship, lies, truth and love, an engaging story and heartwarming read.
Many thanks to Bookouture for gifting me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
When the organiser of the North West Food and Wine Festival has to pull out, May surprises everyone by jumping up to take over. That’s when her friend suggests that she needs an assistant and coerces Tom into taking that role. Will this be their opportunity to rekindle their teen romance? Can May be honest with everyone and show that Tom doesn’t deserve his bad reputation in the community? Can Tom help May organise the festival and save his family’s business? So many questions and you’ll just have to read it for yourself to discover the answers!
This is a lovely addition to this series, though I believe it would still work to read it as a standalone. May has protected herself by never revealing the truth but to win Tom’s trust and love she’ll need to be brave and let others know just what really happened. It is a story of a small community, family, friendship, lies, truth and love, an engaging story and heartwarming read.
Many thanks to Bookouture for gifting me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
June 18, 2020
'Sweet Pea Summer' is the second of Alys's books that I have had the pleasure of reading and reviewing. 'Sweet Pea Summer' really was a lovely read and then some and I enjoyed every single minute of the story but more about that in a bit.
'Sweet Pea Summer' came along at the right time for me. I was feeling a little low and in need of a distraction. 'Sweet Pea Summer' was that distraction and for a time, reading 'Sweet Pea Summer' meant that I could forget my chronic back pain. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I would become so caught up in the lives of the different characters that I would end up reading significantly more than a couple of chapters. 'Sweet Pea Summer' was a delightful read. I found the story to be gripping and compelling.
'Sweet Pea Summer' is well written but that I thought that Alys' first book was well written too. She describes the characters in her stories so fully that they seemed to jump off the page and they seemed just as real as you and I. I found myself becoming emotionally involved in the story to the extent that I felt myself going through every emotion that the different characters went through. I felt as though I was part of the story which is thanks to Alys' very vivid and realistic storytelling. I found this book to be the literary equivalent of a hug in a mug in the sense that this story made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Sweet Pea Summer' and I would recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Alys' work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
'Sweet Pea Summer' came along at the right time for me. I was feeling a little low and in need of a distraction. 'Sweet Pea Summer' was that distraction and for a time, reading 'Sweet Pea Summer' meant that I could forget my chronic back pain. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I would become so caught up in the lives of the different characters that I would end up reading significantly more than a couple of chapters. 'Sweet Pea Summer' was a delightful read. I found the story to be gripping and compelling.
'Sweet Pea Summer' is well written but that I thought that Alys' first book was well written too. She describes the characters in her stories so fully that they seemed to jump off the page and they seemed just as real as you and I. I found myself becoming emotionally involved in the story to the extent that I felt myself going through every emotion that the different characters went through. I felt as though I was part of the story which is thanks to Alys' very vivid and realistic storytelling. I found this book to be the literary equivalent of a hug in a mug in the sense that this story made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Sweet Pea Summer' and I would recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Alys' work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
June 19, 2020
Sweet Pea Summer!
This is the second book in the Full Bloom Farm series, and the first book by Alys Murray that I’ve read. It was an easy read, and I found myself flipping through quickly. This is a second chance book and was this a second chance! When May and Tom were 18 years old, they planned to escape their small-town to travel the world and discover everything they could together. But May got cold feet and she told Tom to go without her. She was heartbroken, but it was the decision she felt best for herself (although she really was scared and didn’t want to leave her trusted home where everyone looked after each other). Tom left, made his way in the world and is back ready to recreate his family’s winery. But both have been avoiding each other for months. It’s not until May volunteers to plan the town’s festival and requires a co-planner, that the two are thrown together and have to face the past, present and a potential future.
I wasn’t thrilled with May’s penchant for keeping her secret that SHE did not go with Tom all those years ago even though she saw the way the busy-body townsfolk treated him and she saw the impact the secret was taking on his family’s business. It took her father to finally help her grow up and take responsibility for her own actions. Also, why does everyone care that she was heartbroken at 18!! She’s an adult woman, but she still needed to grow up - a lot!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.
This is the second book in the Full Bloom Farm series, and the first book by Alys Murray that I’ve read. It was an easy read, and I found myself flipping through quickly. This is a second chance book and was this a second chance! When May and Tom were 18 years old, they planned to escape their small-town to travel the world and discover everything they could together. But May got cold feet and she told Tom to go without her. She was heartbroken, but it was the decision she felt best for herself (although she really was scared and didn’t want to leave her trusted home where everyone looked after each other). Tom left, made his way in the world and is back ready to recreate his family’s winery. But both have been avoiding each other for months. It’s not until May volunteers to plan the town’s festival and requires a co-planner, that the two are thrown together and have to face the past, present and a potential future.
I wasn’t thrilled with May’s penchant for keeping her secret that SHE did not go with Tom all those years ago even though she saw the way the busy-body townsfolk treated him and she saw the impact the secret was taking on his family’s business. It took her father to finally help her grow up and take responsibility for her own actions. Also, why does everyone care that she was heartbroken at 18!! She’s an adult woman, but she still needed to grow up - a lot!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.
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