What do you think?
Rate this book
Hartwood Holiday Romance #1
Moonlight and Belladonna
Will a high school music teacher and an indie rock star find their harmony in this small town holiday romance?
Belladonna Pagano is far too busy for love—she has until Halloween to wow the school board with Hartwood High’s Fall production of Little Shop of Horrors, or she’ll be out of a job. Besides, after her former fiancé traded their future for his burgeoning music career, she’s vowed never to give a man that kind of power over her again. Least of all a rock star.
On the outside, Cade Owens, sexy frontman for indie rock chart topper, Burning Umbrage, has it all. But he can’t outrun the ghosts from his past. When he’s forced to return to the small town holding his darkest memories to bury someone he loves, Cade makes a desperate, rock bottom choice.
A rash decision that leads him crashing headlong into a fiery woman in the woods.
And a choice that ultimately results in court-ordered community service . . . with her.
Bella and Cade risk their careers and their hearts in this musical, bewitching tale of love and redemption.
Belladonna Pagano is far too busy for love—she has until Halloween to wow the school board with Hartwood High’s Fall production of Little Shop of Horrors, or she’ll be out of a job. Besides, after her former fiancé traded their future for his burgeoning music career, she’s vowed never to give a man that kind of power over her again. Least of all a rock star.
On the outside, Cade Owens, sexy frontman for indie rock chart topper, Burning Umbrage, has it all. But he can’t outrun the ghosts from his past. When he’s forced to return to the small town holding his darkest memories to bury someone he loves, Cade makes a desperate, rock bottom choice.
A rash decision that leads him crashing headlong into a fiery woman in the woods.
And a choice that ultimately results in court-ordered community service . . . with her.
Bella and Cade risk their careers and their hearts in this musical, bewitching tale of love and redemption.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2020
17 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 17, 2021
Books written for each holiday season? Beautiful characters to swoon over and indulge in their romance? Sign me up!
Loved Bella’s and Cade’s story, it’s not perfect, it’s messy and complicated like all real relationships and I love that about contemporary romance books. I really enjoyed the steps these characters went through and the hardships of being finding love and being in a loving relationship. Exciting to read the following books in the story.
Beautiful, lyrical writing; charming, flirty and funny characters; set during times of holiday seasons; sweet and steamy scenes; you don’t want to miss out on picking up this book ;)
Loved Bella’s and Cade’s story, it’s not perfect, it’s messy and complicated like all real relationships and I love that about contemporary romance books. I really enjoyed the steps these characters went through and the hardships of being finding love and being in a loving relationship. Exciting to read the following books in the story.
Beautiful, lyrical writing; charming, flirty and funny characters; set during times of holiday seasons; sweet and steamy scenes; you don’t want to miss out on picking up this book ;)
October 18, 2020
This cute romance gave me all the warm fuzzies and all the autumn vibes. I didn't want to leave Heartwood and read it in 24 hours. It's like a mug of hot (hot!) apple cider in book form.
October 20, 2021
I loved Bella’s and Cade’s story; it’s not perfect; it’s messy and complicated like all genuine relationships as contemporary romances should be.
I enjoyed this seasonal fall book with a small-town feel. Bella, a teacher, is trying to save the arts program at the school. Cade, an indie rock star, grieves his grandmother’s death, comes to take care of his widowed grandfather and, ends up having to do community services, and meets Bella.
The story takes before Halloween, and you can feel the ambiance by getting ready to decorate the city.
The secondary characters complemented Bella & Cade and made me laugh in several parts of the book.
Jae Dawson needs to write stories about many characters inside this book.
This story is interesting because while it is light-hearted and full of love and finding oneself... there is also heartbreak, devastation, a possible drinking problem to overcome, and death. This novel hits some heavy topics in a short amount of time. Everything is concluded in the story and wrapped up very nicely.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jae Dawson. For a debut book, she did an outstanding job.
I enjoyed this seasonal fall book with a small-town feel. Bella, a teacher, is trying to save the arts program at the school. Cade, an indie rock star, grieves his grandmother’s death, comes to take care of his widowed grandfather and, ends up having to do community services, and meets Bella.
The story takes before Halloween, and you can feel the ambiance by getting ready to decorate the city.
The secondary characters complemented Bella & Cade and made me laugh in several parts of the book.
Jae Dawson needs to write stories about many characters inside this book.
This story is interesting because while it is light-hearted and full of love and finding oneself... there is also heartbreak, devastation, a possible drinking problem to overcome, and death. This novel hits some heavy topics in a short amount of time. Everything is concluded in the story and wrapped up very nicely.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jae Dawson. For a debut book, she did an outstanding job.
July 26, 2021
I enjoyed this fall seasonal book in a small town feel. Bella, a teacher, is trying to save the arts program at the school. Cade, a indie rock star, ends up having to do community services and meets Bella. I love Bella and Cade's chemistry and the story behind each character. I have to say, Bella's mom made me laugh on a few occasions, being Italian and "saucy". Both Bella and Cade have some walls to protect themselves from being hurt, will their spark blossom to romance? Read this book and find out, I highly recommend this contemporary romance!
February 8, 2021
I loved this... enjoyed the small town atmosphere, Halloween/fall timeframe, the witty banter, and the sweetness mixed with steaminess. The cover got me (it's beautiful!), but the story and characters grabbed me right away and pulled me to the end. Read this quickly and looking forward to reading more of Dawson's work.
September 9, 2021
This was cute, but felt like it dragged on too long (and it's not even a long book). Parts of the rockstar aspect were really cliche. It's also not really a Halloween story at all. The play takes place on Halloween, but that's about it.
February 9, 2024
Cute story about Bella and Cade and their love story. Bella is a school theater teacher and Cade is a famous musician and after Bella's mother helps Bella cast a spell for her love life, Cade pops into her life.
Normally I would love a cute little love story like this one but I had more expectations that weren't met. First, this is supposed to be a holiday romance - Halloween - and this barely showed its face. Halloween is my favorite holiday so I was hoping for way more of it. Second, this is kind of an enemies-to lovers trope. But like the holiday, it barely made an appearance. I think they were enemies for a few chapters before they both started falling for each other. I love this trope and it just skimmed the waters. Also, it was almost insta-love and this sort of irked me.
Like I said, this is a cute romance - and perfect for those wanting this type of story. But if you were looking for more, like me, you may need to pick another book.
Normally I would love a cute little love story like this one but I had more expectations that weren't met. First, this is supposed to be a holiday romance - Halloween - and this barely showed its face. Halloween is my favorite holiday so I was hoping for way more of it. Second, this is kind of an enemies-to lovers trope. But like the holiday, it barely made an appearance. I think they were enemies for a few chapters before they both started falling for each other. I love this trope and it just skimmed the waters. Also, it was almost insta-love and this sort of irked me.
Like I said, this is a cute romance - and perfect for those wanting this type of story. But if you were looking for more, like me, you may need to pick another book.
February 6, 2021
This is a small town romance with some characters with big personalities, Cade Owens is the frontman to a very popular rock band and Belladonna (or Bella) Pagano is a high school arts teacher and when they run into each other in the woods, even though they are there for completely different reasons, Bella to do a ritual to find love with her mum and Cade to drunkenly escape from his current situation, but it leads to more than they both were bargaining for when Bella tries to stop Cade from driving home drunk and he crashes into a lampost and ends up in jail overnight instead.
When his lawyer comes to speak to him the next day, he is ready to just brush the whole thing under the carpet with just a fine, but Cade decides to take his punishment and complete the hours community service and pay the fine for repairing what he damaged, he feels like it will do him more good, but starts to regret it when he realises that the community service will be with Bella at the school. Meanwhile Bella is struggling to get the students' enthusiasm up for that year's musical, Little Shop of Horrors, especially when she knows it is the only thing standing in the way of the department losing all of its finding for the next year, to only be told that not only is she getting a student who is serving community service, but Cade Owens as well!
Now Cade has agreed to this community service he has to break the news to his manager and bandmates, but some are more accepting than others and he is trying to ignore the messages, phone calls and demands for new songs as much as he can, but between juggling that, being at the school twice a week and looking after his grandpa, he is wearing thin, but thanks to a kind neighbour, he is just about able to cope. So he starts to spend his tuesdays and thursdays at the school with the students and Bella, the atmosphere is purely professional around them and the kids who are thoroughly in awe that THE Cade Owens is helping out at their school, but Bella allows them to do the whole fan thing for a bit, then gets down to work with the student on community service in the AV and lights setups while everyone else works on their parts and on the set.
Will this unlikely duo be able to pull off the perfect musical and wow the school board, or will the life of a rockstar get in the way? Will they be able to keep their relationship purely professional, or will the love ritual bear fruit and lead to something more? This is a tale of romance, music and life changing decisions, but how it all ends is something you will have to read to find out.
When his lawyer comes to speak to him the next day, he is ready to just brush the whole thing under the carpet with just a fine, but Cade decides to take his punishment and complete the hours community service and pay the fine for repairing what he damaged, he feels like it will do him more good, but starts to regret it when he realises that the community service will be with Bella at the school. Meanwhile Bella is struggling to get the students' enthusiasm up for that year's musical, Little Shop of Horrors, especially when she knows it is the only thing standing in the way of the department losing all of its finding for the next year, to only be told that not only is she getting a student who is serving community service, but Cade Owens as well!
Now Cade has agreed to this community service he has to break the news to his manager and bandmates, but some are more accepting than others and he is trying to ignore the messages, phone calls and demands for new songs as much as he can, but between juggling that, being at the school twice a week and looking after his grandpa, he is wearing thin, but thanks to a kind neighbour, he is just about able to cope. So he starts to spend his tuesdays and thursdays at the school with the students and Bella, the atmosphere is purely professional around them and the kids who are thoroughly in awe that THE Cade Owens is helping out at their school, but Bella allows them to do the whole fan thing for a bit, then gets down to work with the student on community service in the AV and lights setups while everyone else works on their parts and on the set.
Will this unlikely duo be able to pull off the perfect musical and wow the school board, or will the life of a rockstar get in the way? Will they be able to keep their relationship purely professional, or will the love ritual bear fruit and lead to something more? This is a tale of romance, music and life changing decisions, but how it all ends is something you will have to read to find out.
October 11, 2020
Egotistical Musician, Magical Rituals, Italian Roots, Fall Hallmark Moving Setting and a Banana?
This novel has it all. This is the first in a new series in fictional Hartwood Falls, and I am so excited to see more people from this town and the town itself. Hallmark Movies is mentioned a few times in this book and it really does have that homey, falling in love, fall theme throughout all the pages.
I love these small towns, they make you want to live there, know the people and participate in these ridiculous town events (kind of like Gilmore Girls). This story is interesting because while it is light-hearted and full of love and finding oneself....there is also heartbreak, devastation, a possible drinking problem to overcome, and death. This novel really hits some heavy topics in a short amount of time. Everything is concluded in the novel and wrapped up very nicely. I am excited to see if characters from this novel will be making appearances in the next Hartwood Falls book.
Gramps was my favourite character. I wanted more with him and Nightshade, because he really was like an older Cade. It was nice seeing their relationship and how strong it was. The writing when it comes to Gramps and how he feels about Frances had me crying. That is what everyone wants, someone to love and had adventures with.
This is the perfect fall novel, filled with Falls, Leaves, Apple Cider, Cozy Blankets, PIE.. the entire setting just screams FALL. It's a very quick read, and I was trying to take my time because I didn't want to leave this cute world. And holy moly... that last chapter. SPICY!
Fantastic Debut novel in this Hardwood Falls Setting. I am super excited for novel 2 already -- Heartbeats & Roses.
This novel has it all. This is the first in a new series in fictional Hartwood Falls, and I am so excited to see more people from this town and the town itself. Hallmark Movies is mentioned a few times in this book and it really does have that homey, falling in love, fall theme throughout all the pages.
I love these small towns, they make you want to live there, know the people and participate in these ridiculous town events (kind of like Gilmore Girls). This story is interesting because while it is light-hearted and full of love and finding oneself....there is also heartbreak, devastation, a possible drinking problem to overcome, and death. This novel really hits some heavy topics in a short amount of time. Everything is concluded in the novel and wrapped up very nicely. I am excited to see if characters from this novel will be making appearances in the next Hartwood Falls book.
Gramps was my favourite character. I wanted more with him and Nightshade, because he really was like an older Cade. It was nice seeing their relationship and how strong it was. The writing when it comes to Gramps and how he feels about Frances had me crying. That is what everyone wants, someone to love and had adventures with.
This is the perfect fall novel, filled with Falls, Leaves, Apple Cider, Cozy Blankets, PIE.. the entire setting just screams FALL. It's a very quick read, and I was trying to take my time because I didn't want to leave this cute world. And holy moly... that last chapter. SPICY!
Fantastic Debut novel in this Hardwood Falls Setting. I am super excited for novel 2 already -- Heartbeats & Roses.
February 3, 2021
Bella is happily going through life, she is determined to make this year’s production the best it can be as her job is literally on the line, but in waltz’s a stranger from her past which she really wants to forget, but can she truly hate him.
Bella has lived her life with the regret of her one true love left to pursue a career in music which left her heart broken and determined to care for life. Roll forward and she is more than ever dedicated to her students and with the add pressure of her job if this year’s school production does not go well but in the midst of all this going on in her life, in he strolls like nothing has changed and can she hate him or will the past come full circle.
Cade is a rock legend, but when he returns to his hometown to say goodbye to someone he loved, can he recover and go back on the road. Cade then has some hard memories and decisions he needs to relive and recover.
I loved this story, it is full of what other people have said a Hallmark movie feels. The characters in this have a great chemistry which pulses off the page but what I love is that their relationship burns slowly at first and you get to truly know the characters. Each character has their fair share of angst and regrets which make them super relatable and I always think that those types of characters you could so easily have as friends. Although the main characters are well developed and written, the secondary characters also add an extra layer to the story and make it hard to put down once you have started reading.
This is the first book I have read by this author but I definitely would like to read more of the author and this series. If you enjoy a good romance with well written story and characters then this is a story for you.
Bella has lived her life with the regret of her one true love left to pursue a career in music which left her heart broken and determined to care for life. Roll forward and she is more than ever dedicated to her students and with the add pressure of her job if this year’s school production does not go well but in the midst of all this going on in her life, in he strolls like nothing has changed and can she hate him or will the past come full circle.
Cade is a rock legend, but when he returns to his hometown to say goodbye to someone he loved, can he recover and go back on the road. Cade then has some hard memories and decisions he needs to relive and recover.
I loved this story, it is full of what other people have said a Hallmark movie feels. The characters in this have a great chemistry which pulses off the page but what I love is that their relationship burns slowly at first and you get to truly know the characters. Each character has their fair share of angst and regrets which make them super relatable and I always think that those types of characters you could so easily have as friends. Although the main characters are well developed and written, the secondary characters also add an extra layer to the story and make it hard to put down once you have started reading.
This is the first book I have read by this author but I definitely would like to read more of the author and this series. If you enjoy a good romance with well written story and characters then this is a story for you.
November 8, 2021
4.5 cozy stars!
In honour of this year's Halloween, I was in the mood to read a cozy, small-town romance. As I was browsing the KU options, I stumbled upon this book, which admittedly I hadn't seen or heard of before. It's safe to say, this book pleasantly surprised me!
I adored the setting - it delivered the coziness I was looking for; it felt comfortable, warm, home-like. Small town settings don't always stand out because some elements are, more or less, the same throughout various books. Yet, Heartwood felt unique. It had its special charm and that extra family touch which makes you want to go there and spend the holidays.
Although the romance is an essential theme in this book, I found myself loving the themes of family and belonging. Both main characters have their own journey and they're both surrounded by different representations of family. You are able to see how a character can undergo struggles but they don't have to face everything alone. How a loving community can make all the difference in the world.
The romance was adorable and full of banter and I adored that. I underlined so many quotes of just Bella and Cade going back and forth with their flirty banter. There were so many funny moments too between these two, even the way they meet is quite the memorable experience. Their romance offers a bit of everything for the readers who wish to read something that feels like a Hallmark movie. I did feel like a movie on paper.
The music element was greatly interwoven into the story and part of me just wants a follow-up novella with the band interacting because they're all hilarious and I love them! :')
Overall, I would highly recommend this book! Cozy vibes and fall festival extravaganza with extra romance sprinkles!
In honour of this year's Halloween, I was in the mood to read a cozy, small-town romance. As I was browsing the KU options, I stumbled upon this book, which admittedly I hadn't seen or heard of before. It's safe to say, this book pleasantly surprised me!
I adored the setting - it delivered the coziness I was looking for; it felt comfortable, warm, home-like. Small town settings don't always stand out because some elements are, more or less, the same throughout various books. Yet, Heartwood felt unique. It had its special charm and that extra family touch which makes you want to go there and spend the holidays.
Although the romance is an essential theme in this book, I found myself loving the themes of family and belonging. Both main characters have their own journey and they're both surrounded by different representations of family. You are able to see how a character can undergo struggles but they don't have to face everything alone. How a loving community can make all the difference in the world.
The romance was adorable and full of banter and I adored that. I underlined so many quotes of just Bella and Cade going back and forth with their flirty banter. There were so many funny moments too between these two, even the way they meet is quite the memorable experience. Their romance offers a bit of everything for the readers who wish to read something that feels like a Hallmark movie. I did feel like a movie on paper.
The music element was greatly interwoven into the story and part of me just wants a follow-up novella with the band interacting because they're all hilarious and I love them! :')
Overall, I would highly recommend this book! Cozy vibes and fall festival extravaganza with extra romance sprinkles!
November 9, 2020
I ABSOLUTELY love this book!! I didn’t want to stop reading and also wish it would go on forever. This reads like a dream. It’s smooth, sexy, dramatic and OMG that banana scene! So H-O-T! The characters are outstanding. I ab-so-lutely LOVE these two! They are great together! Almost magic! They made me laugh and I could really *feel* FOR them and WITH them.
I loved that Bella is an arts teacher, Italian, and speaks her mind. She has that certain spunk that appeals. When she speaks Italian....it is sexy! What she does for the school and kids is inspiring. I wish i could see the play. BTW her mother cracks me up! She is a lady who never wants to grow up.
Cade is a famous indie rock lead singer. He comes with baggage. Mostly his dedication for his job and that conflicts with his love of family. He has A LOT of pressure on him to perform correctly for all the above. The songwriting skills he has are impressive. I Love, LOVE, LOVE the song that he wrote!! How he came up with the different parts of it.
There are a ton of supporting characters in here. A few favorites are her crazy, fun mother,the band members andGramps. I love the relationship between the band members. They crack me up and I love that they have Cade’s back! His Gramps may be old but he is still so young at heart!
Overall I couldn’t get enough of this book! This is a book I can reread and enjoy over and Over. I think this would be great as an audio. Those lyrics...the singing and that Italian would sound awesome!
More from this author and next please!
Ps...I love the author’s dedication!
I loved that Bella is an arts teacher, Italian, and speaks her mind. She has that certain spunk that appeals. When she speaks Italian....it is sexy! What she does for the school and kids is inspiring. I wish i could see the play. BTW her mother cracks me up! She is a lady who never wants to grow up.
Cade is a famous indie rock lead singer. He comes with baggage. Mostly his dedication for his job and that conflicts with his love of family. He has A LOT of pressure on him to perform correctly for all the above. The songwriting skills he has are impressive. I Love, LOVE, LOVE the song that he wrote!! How he came up with the different parts of it.
There are a ton of supporting characters in here. A few favorites are her crazy, fun mother,the band members andGramps. I love the relationship between the band members. They crack me up and I love that they have Cade’s back! His Gramps may be old but he is still so young at heart!
Overall I couldn’t get enough of this book! This is a book I can reread and enjoy over and Over. I think this would be great as an audio. Those lyrics...the singing and that Italian would sound awesome!
More from this author and next please!
Ps...I love the author’s dedication!
November 11, 2020
Moonlight and Belladonna: A Small Town Halloween Romance (Hartwood Holiday Romance) by Jae Dawson
4 Stars
This is my first book by this author and I did enjoy reading it. I really liked the storyline and the characters grew on me as the book went on. I loved Bella and Cades first meeting and found myself laughing out loud during that scene. I really think the interaction between Bella and her Mom was my favorite part of this entire book!
Bella’s dedication to her students in this story was admirable and I felt her determination in fighting for what she believed in. I do wish there had been a bit more in the story about Jeremy, I would have liked to see more about his transformation while performing his community service. I would've loved his POV.
I do like how Bella and Cade’s relationship took time to grow, although there was an immediate attraction, it wasn't acted on from the get go and I appreciated that, it helped me to get to know the two better and I felt as though I was able to invest a bit more in their connection. These two were both fighting loss and personal battles in their lives. My heart broke for Cade and I felt that story in my heart as I personally dealt with some of the same things he did in this book and I was forced to make decisions that were really hard to make.
I can't wait to read more from this small town. Halloween was great but now would love a Christmas theme, Some of my favorite reads are from small towns and this author gave me that and made me want to go back for more.
I highly recommend this book, it moves fast yet smooth and I did read it in one sitting.
4 Stars
This is my first book by this author and I did enjoy reading it. I really liked the storyline and the characters grew on me as the book went on. I loved Bella and Cades first meeting and found myself laughing out loud during that scene. I really think the interaction between Bella and her Mom was my favorite part of this entire book!
Bella’s dedication to her students in this story was admirable and I felt her determination in fighting for what she believed in. I do wish there had been a bit more in the story about Jeremy, I would have liked to see more about his transformation while performing his community service. I would've loved his POV.
I do like how Bella and Cade’s relationship took time to grow, although there was an immediate attraction, it wasn't acted on from the get go and I appreciated that, it helped me to get to know the two better and I felt as though I was able to invest a bit more in their connection. These two were both fighting loss and personal battles in their lives. My heart broke for Cade and I felt that story in my heart as I personally dealt with some of the same things he did in this book and I was forced to make decisions that were really hard to make.
I can't wait to read more from this small town. Halloween was great but now would love a Christmas theme, Some of my favorite reads are from small towns and this author gave me that and made me want to go back for more.
I highly recommend this book, it moves fast yet smooth and I did read it in one sitting.
October 10, 2020
🎶🎶ONE SENSATIONAL DELIGHT🎶🎶
Broken string! Jae delivers with this skillfully spun debacle, laying out all the self-doubt, heartache and past promises, serving up one helluva storm with this hot little number, hooking you from the start and reeling you in for the duration, catapulting this gem to staggering heights. A surging tempest of vexing mishaps and surprising events, propel those churning emotions into play front and center, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. Shenanigans, escapades and havoc run amuck, baring the soaring up and agonizing downs, breathtaking in it's simplicity and beautiful in it's depth, blasting this baby to life brilliantly. You feel everything the characters feel with every fiber of your being, broken boundaries and stretched limitations are amplified and exploited, keeping you riveted and frozen to your seat, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. The characters, banter, interactions and charged atmosphere are realistic, complex and genuine with traits and qualities, add depth and diversity, transforming into loveable personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating one vivid backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Jae, thanks for sharing this thrilling block buster with us.
Broken string! Jae delivers with this skillfully spun debacle, laying out all the self-doubt, heartache and past promises, serving up one helluva storm with this hot little number, hooking you from the start and reeling you in for the duration, catapulting this gem to staggering heights. A surging tempest of vexing mishaps and surprising events, propel those churning emotions into play front and center, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. Shenanigans, escapades and havoc run amuck, baring the soaring up and agonizing downs, breathtaking in it's simplicity and beautiful in it's depth, blasting this baby to life brilliantly. You feel everything the characters feel with every fiber of your being, broken boundaries and stretched limitations are amplified and exploited, keeping you riveted and frozen to your seat, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. The characters, banter, interactions and charged atmosphere are realistic, complex and genuine with traits and qualities, add depth and diversity, transforming into loveable personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating one vivid backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Jae, thanks for sharing this thrilling block buster with us.
November 8, 2020
If you are a huge fan of the Hallmark’s holiday theme movies, then this book is for you! From what I gather this whole series will be for you! Moonlight and Belladonna is the first in the Hartwood Holiday Romance series from Jae Dawson, and I am hella excited to see what the other books will entail. This one is all centered around fall in an idyllic little town called Hartwood. I kinda wish I could go visit the real place but this is fictional and only in my head at the moment. This book transported me to the falling leaves, warm apple pie, delicious cider, and that crisp feel to the air that is all too new even though it happens every year. Fall is undoubtedly my favorite time of year so this book was a complete hit for me on many many levels.
While this book is a sweet romance during the wonderful fall season, it does have more substance to it than just that. I love how real issues were addressed and you felt the spirit of the characters fluctuate with what was happening. It does have plenty of the good stuff but sometimes it's nice to see that life is just as real in a book as it is IRL. I can’t close my review without a nod to that last chapter of sexiness! Holy hot cakes this one will have you wanting to take a plunge in ice water! I loved it and I cannot wait to see what the rest of this series will bring us!
While this book is a sweet romance during the wonderful fall season, it does have more substance to it than just that. I love how real issues were addressed and you felt the spirit of the characters fluctuate with what was happening. It does have plenty of the good stuff but sometimes it's nice to see that life is just as real in a book as it is IRL. I can’t close my review without a nod to that last chapter of sexiness! Holy hot cakes this one will have you wanting to take a plunge in ice water! I loved it and I cannot wait to see what the rest of this series will bring us!
November 14, 2020
Bella is the performing arts teacher at the local high school in Hartwood. Her budget is next to nothing and is being threatened to be cut even more, thus probably ending her teaching career at the high school. After being forced to take on a troubled student as he completes his community service, she must then take on an adult equivalent after a drunk driving accident. Doing what she does best, she is determined to make the most of everything being piled onto her plate in order to make the production successful and not have to find another job at the end of the school year.
Cade is home in Hartwood to take care of his grandfather after the death of his grandmother. He knows that his band, Burning Umbrage, is waiting for him to return to LA and finish their album. However, after a night in lockup he finds himself serving his community service alongside a hot-headed teacher that has a hatred for rock stars.
The chemistry, and maybe a little bit of magic, between Bella and Cade comes off the page and can be felt. Their different lifestyles are potential obstacles, but also what makes them great for each other. I found myself rooting for them from the beginning. Each of them has their own walls built up and it was enjoyable watching them break each other's walls down. The supporting characters were lovable and added to the story. I enjoyed this story!
Cade is home in Hartwood to take care of his grandfather after the death of his grandmother. He knows that his band, Burning Umbrage, is waiting for him to return to LA and finish their album. However, after a night in lockup he finds himself serving his community service alongside a hot-headed teacher that has a hatred for rock stars.
The chemistry, and maybe a little bit of magic, between Bella and Cade comes off the page and can be felt. Their different lifestyles are potential obstacles, but also what makes them great for each other. I found myself rooting for them from the beginning. Each of them has their own walls built up and it was enjoyable watching them break each other's walls down. The supporting characters were lovable and added to the story. I enjoyed this story!
February 1, 2021
This is the first book (but a standalone) in a new small town romance. Since covid, I’ve been giving small town romances more of a shot because they’re short, light, and happy. This book is just that (although on the longer end — it does not lack any character development or plot arc.)
In this book, Cade Owens, a famous band singer heads back to his small hometown due to his gran’s death. When he makes a mistake and gets stuck with community service, he gets passed off to Bella Pagano, a high school theater who is desperate for help making her fall play a hit so the school board doesn’t cut her funding.
What I liked most about this, on top of the easy flow of the romance and beautiful and individual dual POV writing, was the way other characters and their mini-arcs are wrapped in so seamless: the students, Gramps, Cade’s band mates and Bella’s exuberant Italian mamma. It’s all very heartwarming — and clean until that last ch (easy to skip if you’re not into sex scenes).
Plus, there’s some gorgeous songwriting in here. 🎵
This story really pulled me in — I devoured it FAST, reading late into the night. It was easy to jump in and get a few pages in on lunch or breaks. Highly recommend if you like small town romance ... or just need a light, wholesome read to break up your TBR stack.
In this book, Cade Owens, a famous band singer heads back to his small hometown due to his gran’s death. When he makes a mistake and gets stuck with community service, he gets passed off to Bella Pagano, a high school theater who is desperate for help making her fall play a hit so the school board doesn’t cut her funding.
What I liked most about this, on top of the easy flow of the romance and beautiful and individual dual POV writing, was the way other characters and their mini-arcs are wrapped in so seamless: the students, Gramps, Cade’s band mates and Bella’s exuberant Italian mamma. It’s all very heartwarming — and clean until that last ch (easy to skip if you’re not into sex scenes).
Plus, there’s some gorgeous songwriting in here. 🎵
This story really pulled me in — I devoured it FAST, reading late into the night. It was easy to jump in and get a few pages in on lunch or breaks. Highly recommend if you like small town romance ... or just need a light, wholesome read to break up your TBR stack.
February 7, 2021
5/5 Stars
Moonlight and Belladonna: A Small Town Halloween Romance (Hartwood Holiday Romance) by Jae Dawson
This is the first book I've read by Dawson. It will not be my last. Hartwood makes me feel at home and I didn't want to leave. I will be going back soon!
Bella is a high school drama and arts teacher. The new musical is coming up and Bella gets help from someone she thought she could do without. Can she get over her fear of falling for rock stars. The quote I chose for Bella is: “I wouldn’t kiss your a** if it were the last a** on earth."
Cade is a famous artist. When he cimes home to bury someone he loves things go from eh to worse. Community service lets him stay to take care of someone. Will he fall for the teacher? The quote I chose for Cade is: “Yeah, I didn’t start a band to become famous. I did it because I loved music and I loved playing music with my friends. It pi**es me off that the best songs I write usually don’t make the A-side cut, while the vapid but catchy drivel I’m forced to write ends up at the top of the Billboard charts. And that it’s more important how I look, what my branding image is, than how I play. And that every person I meet wants a piece of me because my record label contract somehow makes me a demi-god of entertainment. It’s . . . exhausting.”
Highly recommended for Contemporary Romance lovers.
Moonlight and Belladonna: A Small Town Halloween Romance (Hartwood Holiday Romance) by Jae Dawson
This is the first book I've read by Dawson. It will not be my last. Hartwood makes me feel at home and I didn't want to leave. I will be going back soon!
Bella is a high school drama and arts teacher. The new musical is coming up and Bella gets help from someone she thought she could do without. Can she get over her fear of falling for rock stars. The quote I chose for Bella is: “I wouldn’t kiss your a** if it were the last a** on earth."
Cade is a famous artist. When he cimes home to bury someone he loves things go from eh to worse. Community service lets him stay to take care of someone. Will he fall for the teacher? The quote I chose for Cade is: “Yeah, I didn’t start a band to become famous. I did it because I loved music and I loved playing music with my friends. It pi**es me off that the best songs I write usually don’t make the A-side cut, while the vapid but catchy drivel I’m forced to write ends up at the top of the Billboard charts. And that it’s more important how I look, what my branding image is, than how I play. And that every person I meet wants a piece of me because my record label contract somehow makes me a demi-god of entertainment. It’s . . . exhausting.”
Highly recommended for Contemporary Romance lovers.
November 2, 2020
Moonlight and Belladonna: A Small Town Halloween Romance (Hartwood Holiday Romance)
By Jae Dawson
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book Moonlight and Belladonna: A Small Town Halloween Romance (Hartwood Holiday Romance) by Jae Dawson. It is a romance story that grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I loved the characters of Belladonna Pagano and Cade Owens. Belladonna is a woman who is intelligent, independent, and strong. She also is in fear of losing her current job. One play could make a difference. Cade is someone who has ended up with court-ordered community service. It is with Belladonna. There is an attraction between them that can’t be denied. What does the future hold for Belladonna and Cade? Read this book to find out. I loved the bantering that goes back and forth between Belladonna and Cade. There are sad moments as well as moments that touch your heart. I found myself rooting that Belladonna and Cade find happiness. Other characters are introduced, and I enjoyed reading about them and their interactions with Cade and Belladonna. This is a story that gives you a warm feeling and I didn’t want to put it down until I had read the final page. Don’t miss out on an amazing, entertaining, and romantic story. I highly recommend reading it.
By Jae Dawson
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book Moonlight and Belladonna: A Small Town Halloween Romance (Hartwood Holiday Romance) by Jae Dawson. It is a romance story that grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I loved the characters of Belladonna Pagano and Cade Owens. Belladonna is a woman who is intelligent, independent, and strong. She also is in fear of losing her current job. One play could make a difference. Cade is someone who has ended up with court-ordered community service. It is with Belladonna. There is an attraction between them that can’t be denied. What does the future hold for Belladonna and Cade? Read this book to find out. I loved the bantering that goes back and forth between Belladonna and Cade. There are sad moments as well as moments that touch your heart. I found myself rooting that Belladonna and Cade find happiness. Other characters are introduced, and I enjoyed reading about them and their interactions with Cade and Belladonna. This is a story that gives you a warm feeling and I didn’t want to put it down until I had read the final page. Don’t miss out on an amazing, entertaining, and romantic story. I highly recommend reading it.
November 8, 2020
Little shop of horrors, rock stars and a little Italian magic? What more could you want in a book?
This is the first in a new series and I did not want to put this book down once I started.
Bella is a teacher in the small town of Hartwood where she is putting on the Little shop of horrors musical and trying to save the arts in the school district. Cade is a famous rock star that is going through a tough time right now taking care of his grandfather after his grandmother passes away. This story is super relatable in many different ways for many different people.
The chemistry between these two was great even though they mostly fought in the beginning. Bella was awesome and seemed like a great teacher. I loved how good Cade was with the kids and helping them with the musical. Especially when he was showing extra attention to Jeremy. Cade and his band mates were definitely interesting and made me laugh out loud a few times; especially when they wouldn’t let the banana costume go. Gramps was also a great character and I’m really glad things worked out in the end. I did wish we got a little more information at the end about Bella and what happened with the arts program?
I’m excited to read the second one and see if the characters blend throughout these stories or not.
This is the first in a new series and I did not want to put this book down once I started.
Bella is a teacher in the small town of Hartwood where she is putting on the Little shop of horrors musical and trying to save the arts in the school district. Cade is a famous rock star that is going through a tough time right now taking care of his grandfather after his grandmother passes away. This story is super relatable in many different ways for many different people.
The chemistry between these two was great even though they mostly fought in the beginning. Bella was awesome and seemed like a great teacher. I loved how good Cade was with the kids and helping them with the musical. Especially when he was showing extra attention to Jeremy. Cade and his band mates were definitely interesting and made me laugh out loud a few times; especially when they wouldn’t let the banana costume go. Gramps was also a great character and I’m really glad things worked out in the end. I did wish we got a little more information at the end about Bella and what happened with the arts program?
I’m excited to read the second one and see if the characters blend throughout these stories or not.
October 10, 2020
This was the first book I had read by Jae Dawson and I found it intoxicating as it soon became a drug I couldn’t get enough off. At first I thought this will be love, fight, make up and everyone happy. That was before this author gave me adrenaline filled characters with so much depth and brimming with emotions so deep I couldn’t helped but be overwhelmed with the strength of them. Yes there is romance, however never one story or two people are the same. There is a lot of grief, loss from all stages of life, self discovery, finding out who you are and what you want, love for other people, disappointment and many more adjectives two people and their families have that effect your path. There are many layers to this story and I couldn’t stop thinking of it even when my eyes had to close to sleep as my heart continued to pound and the exhilaration still filled me until I could get back to the story. I’m certainly looking forward to the next book in this series. One warning though “have a box of tissues handy !”
November 12, 2020
Moonlight and Belladonna (Heartwood Holiday #1)
By Jae Dawson
5 stars
This was such a lovely read and I have to be honest I haven’t read a Halloween romance before so it was really refreshing! I really loved the storyline and the characters. Belladonna was a really nice character to read about, she had that wholesome girl next door feel about her and she definitely wasn’t in the market for love after her past until Cade – I think he could make anyone seriously think about dating again! He is everything I love in a rock star! I think I fell in love with him straight away.
I loved all the different twists in the story; it was an absolute pleasure to read. It’s one of those books that you wish you could go back and read again for the first time experience the characters and their story again. I think this is probably one of the best books that I have read this year. I think this is a fantastic debit novel for the author!!
I am definitely looking forward to more to come from this series!
By Jae Dawson
5 stars
This was such a lovely read and I have to be honest I haven’t read a Halloween romance before so it was really refreshing! I really loved the storyline and the characters. Belladonna was a really nice character to read about, she had that wholesome girl next door feel about her and she definitely wasn’t in the market for love after her past until Cade – I think he could make anyone seriously think about dating again! He is everything I love in a rock star! I think I fell in love with him straight away.
I loved all the different twists in the story; it was an absolute pleasure to read. It’s one of those books that you wish you could go back and read again for the first time experience the characters and their story again. I think this is probably one of the best books that I have read this year. I think this is a fantastic debit novel for the author!!
I am definitely looking forward to more to come from this series!
January 23, 2021
Moonlight and Belladonna: A Small Town Halloween Romance (A Hartwood Hollywood Romance) by Jae Dawson is a cute little romance set around Halloween. I love these quirky romances set around one of the funnest holiday’s on the calendar.
Belladonna has her work cut out for her with her job and has been bitten in the love department and is hesitant to enter into it again She doesn't want to open herself up to possible hurt in the future. Enter in Cade, who happens to be in a band, and she wants to run for the hills. He makes a bad choice, which throws him and Belladonna together, and that’s where the fun truly begins.
Jae Dawson writes a believable story with true to life feelings and situations. The effort that went into creating this story was evident. Having said that, I just did not form the connection with the characters that I was hoping to. That is not saying it isn't a great story, because it is. I am an emotional reader, and maybe my day was off when I read this story. I encourage readers to take the chance themselves and try this book. 4 stars
Belladonna has her work cut out for her with her job and has been bitten in the love department and is hesitant to enter into it again She doesn't want to open herself up to possible hurt in the future. Enter in Cade, who happens to be in a band, and she wants to run for the hills. He makes a bad choice, which throws him and Belladonna together, and that’s where the fun truly begins.
Jae Dawson writes a believable story with true to life feelings and situations. The effort that went into creating this story was evident. Having said that, I just did not form the connection with the characters that I was hoping to. That is not saying it isn't a great story, because it is. I am an emotional reader, and maybe my day was off when I read this story. I encourage readers to take the chance themselves and try this book. 4 stars
July 22, 2021
Fun Halloween Romance
I loved this! Bella is a fun character. Her mom is wonderfully embarrassing. Cade is a such a sexy flirt. Loved the band's camaraderie. All the relationships are very realistic. The musical added a unique element to the story. Enemies to lovers. And it's steamy at the end. 😏 A really great read all around!
.
📚 Some Quotes:
No way would I give him opportunity to turn his charm on me. Cade Owens’s voice was poison to my system, killed me every time—a beautiful, sweet death. Hearing my name on his lips made the treacherous organ in my chest quicken.
.
Just me and this man who had captured my heart more completely than I had ever believed was possible.
.
“Glad you’re here.”
“Yeah, no shit.” Devon grinned at me, then. “Go get Bob.”
“I’m not strumming out my anger.”
Devon rolled his eyes. “Stop being a diva. Use this existential crisis as lyric fodder.”
“Not in the mood.”
“Bob therapy is good for the soul, especially yours, you broody sexy beast.”
I burst into laughter. “Fine. But only because you called me a sexy beast.”
I loved this! Bella is a fun character. Her mom is wonderfully embarrassing. Cade is a such a sexy flirt. Loved the band's camaraderie. All the relationships are very realistic. The musical added a unique element to the story. Enemies to lovers. And it's steamy at the end. 😏 A really great read all around!
.
📚 Some Quotes:
No way would I give him opportunity to turn his charm on me. Cade Owens’s voice was poison to my system, killed me every time—a beautiful, sweet death. Hearing my name on his lips made the treacherous organ in my chest quicken.
.
Just me and this man who had captured my heart more completely than I had ever believed was possible.
.
“Glad you’re here.”
“Yeah, no shit.” Devon grinned at me, then. “Go get Bob.”
“I’m not strumming out my anger.”
Devon rolled his eyes. “Stop being a diva. Use this existential crisis as lyric fodder.”
“Not in the mood.”
“Bob therapy is good for the soul, especially yours, you broody sexy beast.”
I burst into laughter. “Fine. But only because you called me a sexy beast.”
November 18, 2020
Moonlight and Belladonna: A Small Town Halloween Romance (Hartwood Holiday Romance) by Jae Dawson. I loved this book. Its fun, dramatic and sexy. Its the story of Belladonna Pagano a art teacher who is Italian and very outspoken. She is having to put on a Halloween play that will wow the school board or she will be gone. Cade Owens is a rock star and lead singer for the band Burning Umbrage. He is sexy, talented and has a lot of baggage but that helps in the way of songwriting but not so much in relationships. When Cade has a run in with the law he has to preform community service and this is where he meets Bella. There are immediate sparks but Bella is in no way wanting a relationship and she's not about one night stands. Bella wants to concentrate on her students and her mom but the pull towards Cade is strong. Will Bella and Cade let down their walls and chance romance? Read Moonlight and Belladonna to find out!
November 19, 2020
Moonlight and Belladonna is part of Jae Dawson's Hartwood Falls Romance series. I haven't read these before, but it was really good so I look forward to reading the others. There are little things she does in her writing that just makes the characters more realistic. For example, Bella's preferred wardrobe being pinup Rockabilly style, tells us a lot about her personality. Always having Cade in band t-shirts. Calling his grandparents Gram and Gramps, instead of just Grandma and Grandpa. Its just the little things that make the characters more loveable. I love the relationship Cade has with his band mates and grandparents. I also loved that the building feelings between Bella and Cade were slow building through the whole story. The sarcastic comments they make to each other, building a friendship before a relationship. All these things, and more, is what drew me into the story. I didn't want to put it down. Great writing style, love it!
January 27, 2021
An engaging and enjoyable read, this is a standalone story set in Hartwood Falls at Halloween. Belladonna Pagano has to put on a Halloween production of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ in order to wow the school board or loose her job at Hartwood High. Following her fiancé leaving her behind for his burgeoning music career she has sworn off men, especially rock stars. Meanwhile indie rock frontman Cade Owens, a chart topper with his band ‘Burning Umbrage’ returns to Hartwood Falls, a place which holds dark memories for him. A rash choice by Cade results in him doing community service with Belladonna and soon they are both risking not only their careers but their hearts. I loved the two main characters in this story as they were both very likeable and relatable. Dawson really made the characters and the setting come alive with her descriptive narrative and I felt fully immersed in Belladonna and Cade’s story.
October 26, 2023
3,5/5
That was sweet and cozy! I loved the vibes and the characters were likable (perhaps not Bella's mother lol). Gramps was amazing and I loved him, he was really cute.
Bella's dedication to arts was really inspiring and I loved how much heart she gave to that musical. Cade was a grouchy musician with a heart of gold who was a real asshole at the beginning but we learn that he's struggling with addiction and grief.
Their romance was cute though some of the scenes were corny - like them singing he musical. I had to take a 5 minute break cause that was embarrassing for me, I hate scenes like this. But the whole book was really cute and I loved the vibes.
It was very light and cute though Gramps reminded me of my grandpa a little and now I miss him.
I'm definitely going to read the remaining books in the series, though not yet, I have a few other books on my tbr I want to finish first
That was sweet and cozy! I loved the vibes and the characters were likable (perhaps not Bella's mother lol). Gramps was amazing and I loved him, he was really cute.
Bella's dedication to arts was really inspiring and I loved how much heart she gave to that musical. Cade was a grouchy musician with a heart of gold who was a real asshole at the beginning but we learn that he's struggling with addiction and grief.
Their romance was cute though some of the scenes were corny - like them singing he musical. I had to take a 5 minute break cause that was embarrassing for me, I hate scenes like this. But the whole book was really cute and I loved the vibes.
It was very light and cute though Gramps reminded me of my grandpa a little and now I miss him.
I'm definitely going to read the remaining books in the series, though not yet, I have a few other books on my tbr I want to finish first
October 30, 2020
I enjoyed this sweet Halloween romance story. This is a well written story that has characters that are full of heart and bring the story to life. I had no problems connecting with them as they made the story feel realistic. This is a story about Belladonna who is a high school teacher who has put her job on the line for one musical. If she doesn’t impress the board she will lose her job. Cade can’t seem to outrun his past as he returns to the small town that holds his secrets. Will this musical be the one thing to bring these two back together? Putting both of their careers on the line will they lose it all? These two are such great characters and the life they bring to the story. I enjoyed watching them grow throughout the story and finding what they lost. This is a great story that I highly recommend.
November 10, 2020
Moonlight and Belladonna : A Small Town Halloween Romance (Hartwood Holiday Romance) by Jae Dawson is an entertaining and fun book with great characters and a fun storyline. I was drawn to the book from the off with the striking cover that caught my eye so easily. When I started reading the story itself is what kept my attention. I loved the characters in the book – they were so entertaining throughout. I got such a fun vibe from them but also felt the series side of them and the connection between them.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed her writing style throughout the book. I thought it was all well paced with some great character development. It felt like you really got to know the main characters and became invested in them. This was a well written and enjoyable book that I would certainly recommend.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed her writing style throughout the book. I thought it was all well paced with some great character development. It felt like you really got to know the main characters and became invested in them. This was a well written and enjoyable book that I would certainly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews