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Love Lottery #1
The Accidental Fiance
Is it the chance of a lifetime or his biggest mistake?
When former hotel manager Alex Kirkland, his sister and their best friends pooled their money for an unusual lottery prize—a historic, dilapidated inn on the Maryland shore—as a last-ditch attempt to escape rotten circumstances, they never expected to win. But they’re all looking for a fresh start and a second chance, so Alex convinces everyone to move in and repair the building in time for the spring wedding season.
Sydney Darrow never planned to return to her hometown. But her family needs her and Sydney can endure anything for 90 days—including making sandwiches and serving coffee with a smile until she returns to her jet-setter career. When her grandma mistakes a handsome customer for the “fiancé” Sydney created when she thought her grandma was on death’s door, well...Sydney will do anything to keep her spirits up during treatment. She can persuade him to keep up the charade for a few months, right?
But when Alex agrees to play along, will they both fall for their own fiction?
When former hotel manager Alex Kirkland, his sister and their best friends pooled their money for an unusual lottery prize—a historic, dilapidated inn on the Maryland shore—as a last-ditch attempt to escape rotten circumstances, they never expected to win. But they’re all looking for a fresh start and a second chance, so Alex convinces everyone to move in and repair the building in time for the spring wedding season.
Sydney Darrow never planned to return to her hometown. But her family needs her and Sydney can endure anything for 90 days—including making sandwiches and serving coffee with a smile until she returns to her jet-setter career. When her grandma mistakes a handsome customer for the “fiancé” Sydney created when she thought her grandma was on death’s door, well...Sydney will do anything to keep her spirits up during treatment. She can persuade him to keep up the charade for a few months, right?
But when Alex agrees to play along, will they both fall for their own fiction?
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2021
748 people are currently reading
508 people want to read
About the author
Christi Barth
59 books776 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
February 7, 2021
I have mixed feelings about this book. While I felt it dragged a bit, I also liked a lot of the story and the characters. I thought we were too much inside their head and some repetitions were unnecessary.
It’s the first small town romance I read where it doesn’t have only bad effects on the characters. Here, the author develops a sense of community that I really enjoyed. They all support each other, even the Three Oaks Inn’s newcomers and Sydney the escapee. They’re like a second family.
The fake relationship becoming real wasn’t original at all, but the tension between Sydney and Alex, and the gentle seduction, were really compelling. I loved that couple. I wasn’t too fond of the conflict that threatened their relationship though. It was such an amazing coincidence! My suspension of disbelief only goes so far. I willingly chose to accept it and run with it, since it isn’t the only one in the book–the whole premise is one big one too.
The relationship between the members of the Three Oaks Inn’s crew was interesting too. There are Alex and his sister, Amelia, plus Amelia’s best friend, Everleigh, and Alex’s long time friend Teague. The character development and the various interactions between them make them compelling and I’m interested in reading their personal stories in the next books in the series.
Quickie
- Series: Love lottery #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #fake relationship #newcomers
- Triggers: mention of cheating to a secondary character
- Main couple: Sydney Darrow & Alex Kirkland
- Hotness: 2/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I enjoyed the way the Three Oaks Inn’s crew is slowly accepted by the town
- – I’m still wondering how they managed to fool anyone with their fake relationship
It’s the first small town romance I read where it doesn’t have only bad effects on the characters. Here, the author develops a sense of community that I really enjoyed. They all support each other, even the Three Oaks Inn’s newcomers and Sydney the escapee. They’re like a second family.
The fake relationship becoming real wasn’t original at all, but the tension between Sydney and Alex, and the gentle seduction, were really compelling. I loved that couple. I wasn’t too fond of the conflict that threatened their relationship though. It was such an amazing coincidence! My suspension of disbelief only goes so far. I willingly chose to accept it and run with it, since it isn’t the only one in the book–the whole premise is one big one too.
The relationship between the members of the Three Oaks Inn’s crew was interesting too. There are Alex and his sister, Amelia, plus Amelia’s best friend, Everleigh, and Alex’s long time friend Teague. The character development and the various interactions between them make them compelling and I’m interested in reading their personal stories in the next books in the series.
Quickie
- Series: Love lottery #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #fake relationship #newcomers
- Triggers: mention of cheating to a secondary character
- Main couple: Sydney Darrow & Alex Kirkland
- Hotness: 2/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I enjoyed the way the Three Oaks Inn’s crew is slowly accepted by the town
- – I’m still wondering how they managed to fool anyone with their fake relationship
May 24, 2021
Nice small town romance with a fake slow burn relationship and a big loving nosy family
Trope cell developed and cute love story
Some parts were not well developed IMO but overall nice cute story
3.5 stars
Trope cell developed and cute love story
Some parts were not well developed IMO but overall nice cute story
3.5 stars
March 3, 2021
This book had potential but I found it difficult to read. The writing was clunky and was more tell not show. I felt I was reading much younger characters these did not feel like they were mature adults. I was really disappointed in the execution of the book. THe writer had a great idea I just wish it was better written.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 7, 2021
So excited for this new series from Christi! After falling in love with her princess series I was so excited to see what was next for her! After a bit of drama and getting fired from the job where he thought he would be at forever, Alex seems to be continuing to get bad news and is hitting rock bottom. But thanks to his sister and their friends, they decide to buy a lottery ticket and pray for some good luck, and they get it by winning the lottery and becoming owners of an inn! Unfortunately, when they get there, they find that the inn is in worse condition than implied, and when Alex takes on a bigger risk than the others, it pushes him to his breaking point. Sydney promised to never return to her hometown after graduating high school and years later she has kept that promise, until her grandmother is at risk of dying and she returns home to help with the family business. Returning home causes her to look at everything she ran away from all those years ago, and with that she also lies and says she’s engaged. When Alex and Sydney meet, they’re like oil and water – until Sydney’s grandmother mistakes him as her fiancé and he agrees to play the part. Overall, this was a cute storyline perfectly executed by Christi, although with the establishing of all the characters that will likely be focused on the next books, it was a little long to read. Other than that, I am definitely interested in seeing where things go with this group of friends and the inn!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 16, 2021
I really enjoyed this story! A new series about four friends/family that win the lottery to own an old Inn. Sydney is just home taking care of her grandma and gets thrown into a fake engagement with Alex who has just won the Inn. The coincidence at the end was a bit crazy to believe, and I still can't believe that most of the town believed the story of their engagement, but it was a fun story. I can't wait to see what happens with the others!
March 22, 2021
What a thoroughly charming story. Christi Barth has created a welcoming community of intriguing characters on the Maryland shore that have me wanting to return again and again.
At the heart of the story are Alex, his sister, Amelia, and their two best friends, Everleigh and Teague. I really loved this small family of the heart. It was fun to watch them come together to create a place that will hopefully secure their future as well as become their home. Their relationships are realistic, heart-tugging, and not without their issues but their love for, and support of, one another is solid. Sometimes, too solid for those who would like a little more independence from well-meaning but over-protective siblings. I'm looking forward to getting to know all of them in more depth and follow their individual journeys in future books.
Sydney may not hold any love for her hometown but her loyalty to her family is bone deep. It's that family love and loyalty that causes her to propose a fake engagement to a stranger and Alex's own family history that leads him to agree. These two are so sweet together. I really enjoyed their journey from strangers to friends to so much more. There's a twist in their story that I did not see coming and though some might find it a bit beyond the realm of believability, I was willing to buy into it and the conflict it caused. It gave both Alex and Sydney the vehicle they needed to look deeply into their own hearts and evaluate the importance of their hopes, career dreams, and personal desires in order to determine what was most important to them. Without that twist, I would not have been as confident in the staying power of the love that was developing between them.
If you're in the mood for a sweet, charming, contemporary romance with heart, humor, likeable characters, and one feisty grandma, give Christi Barth's The Accidental Fiancé a try. I'm already gearing up for book two, Definitely Not Dating, featuring Everleigh (whose bad dating choices usually leave her holding the short end of the stick) and Police Chief, Matt Halliday (a great guy who's keeping a secret that may put everyone at risk). It's available for pre-order and will be released May 4.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
At the heart of the story are Alex, his sister, Amelia, and their two best friends, Everleigh and Teague. I really loved this small family of the heart. It was fun to watch them come together to create a place that will hopefully secure their future as well as become their home. Their relationships are realistic, heart-tugging, and not without their issues but their love for, and support of, one another is solid. Sometimes, too solid for those who would like a little more independence from well-meaning but over-protective siblings. I'm looking forward to getting to know all of them in more depth and follow their individual journeys in future books.
Sydney may not hold any love for her hometown but her loyalty to her family is bone deep. It's that family love and loyalty that causes her to propose a fake engagement to a stranger and Alex's own family history that leads him to agree. These two are so sweet together. I really enjoyed their journey from strangers to friends to so much more. There's a twist in their story that I did not see coming and though some might find it a bit beyond the realm of believability, I was willing to buy into it and the conflict it caused. It gave both Alex and Sydney the vehicle they needed to look deeply into their own hearts and evaluate the importance of their hopes, career dreams, and personal desires in order to determine what was most important to them. Without that twist, I would not have been as confident in the staying power of the love that was developing between them.
If you're in the mood for a sweet, charming, contemporary romance with heart, humor, likeable characters, and one feisty grandma, give Christi Barth's The Accidental Fiancé a try. I'm already gearing up for book two, Definitely Not Dating, featuring Everleigh (whose bad dating choices usually leave her holding the short end of the stick) and Police Chief, Matt Halliday (a great guy who's keeping a secret that may put everyone at risk). It's available for pre-order and will be released May 4.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
April 1, 2021
What happens when you, your best friends, and the only family lose everything? You buy a ticket and win an Inn in another country. So the gang pack their belongings and is very surprised when Inn looks worse than represented. The story is about family, sticking together, finding yourself again, and finding love. Sydney comes home to help her sick grandmother and her family and to make grandma happy she makes up a fiance and Alex is the best candidate. Soon fake becomes very real, but the decisions are going to make will they be positive or not?
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for NetGalley
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for NetGalley
June 21, 2021
The Accidental Fiancé is book #1 of the Love Lottery series by Christi Barth. It is a stand alone story told from both points of view and has with a happy ending. Genre: contemporary romance Trope: fake relationship | small town romance
Alex Kirkland is looking for a fresh start and nothing could have been better than the opportunity to renovate the once beautiful hotel he, his sister and his friends won over the holidays. They just have to drop everything, relocate to Maryland and rebuild with a very, VERY limited budget in time for wedding season, but he never imagined he’d be fake engaged himself.
When Sydney Darrow told her ailing grandmother she was engaged, she didn’t think she’d have to actually find a guy to play the role. Lucky for her Alex was willing to play along, but after spending time together, can they distinguish between what’s fake and what’s real?
This was a fun read and a lovely start to the series.
3.5 stars
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3rzR0T2
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
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Alex Kirkland is looking for a fresh start and nothing could have been better than the opportunity to renovate the once beautiful hotel he, his sister and his friends won over the holidays. They just have to drop everything, relocate to Maryland and rebuild with a very, VERY limited budget in time for wedding season, but he never imagined he’d be fake engaged himself.
When Sydney Darrow told her ailing grandmother she was engaged, she didn’t think she’d have to actually find a guy to play the role. Lucky for her Alex was willing to play along, but after spending time together, can they distinguish between what’s fake and what’s real?
This was a fun read and a lovely start to the series.
3.5 stars
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3rzR0T2
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
Stalk me on Instagram ★ FaceBook ★ More reviews
February 5, 2021
I really enjoyed this story. I adore stories that involve our chosen family - as much as the one we are born in to. This has a great story for also never giving up on your dreams and maybe taking a chance on new ones. Although the story focuses on Alex and Sydney - it is just as much a story of the four friends (one of them Alex) winning the lottery to own a historic inn on the Chesapeake Bay. Its about them learning to work together and trust each other in new ways. The crew of friends has hit rock bottom when they buy the lottery ticket for the inn. Each had lost their job and place to live and needed a fresh start. Alex, a former hotel manager, had lost his job in a kind of cruel twist as a result of trying to do the right thing. His dream had been to run his own hotel - but getting the inn back in shape is pushing him to the brink. He feels both personally and financially responsible for it all. As a result his micromanaging is driving his friends nuts. His only safe harbor is in his "fake" relationship with Sydney.
Sydney is a travel TV show producer who is back in her podunk hometown for the first time in forever. She's hated her hometown and isn't happy to be there. Being home forces her to confront a lot of her baggage. Including the fib she told to her dying grandmother about being engaged. Enter Alex and bam instant fake fiance sitch.
I will say there is a LOT going on in this book - both Alex and Sydney are trying to get a fresh start. They are both also trying to learn to trust and move on from the lemons life has handed them. Add in the inn, the large cast of characters, and it can be a lot. Tho - I could 100% see NetFlix making this series as a show!
The one plot point that didn't 100% work for me was the issue of Sydney writing an article. Why would a TV producer need to do that? I know an explanation was given - but it really didn't make a lot of sense to e overall. ITs the source of the big drama between Alex and Sydney - so I kind of felt like it needed more credible background. But that point definitely didn't detract from the overall story!
There are so many stories in the town of Chesterton! Well beyond Alex, Amelia, Everleigh, and Teague. Please! Give me the stories of James and Cam! As well as all the other interesting people along the way.
Overall I really liked this and it is as an awesome start to a new series!
Sydney is a travel TV show producer who is back in her podunk hometown for the first time in forever. She's hated her hometown and isn't happy to be there. Being home forces her to confront a lot of her baggage. Including the fib she told to her dying grandmother about being engaged. Enter Alex and bam instant fake fiance sitch.
I will say there is a LOT going on in this book - both Alex and Sydney are trying to get a fresh start. They are both also trying to learn to trust and move on from the lemons life has handed them. Add in the inn, the large cast of characters, and it can be a lot. Tho - I could 100% see NetFlix making this series as a show!
The one plot point that didn't 100% work for me was the issue of Sydney writing an article. Why would a TV producer need to do that? I know an explanation was given - but it really didn't make a lot of sense to e overall. ITs the source of the big drama between Alex and Sydney - so I kind of felt like it needed more credible background. But that point definitely didn't detract from the overall story!
There are so many stories in the town of Chesterton! Well beyond Alex, Amelia, Everleigh, and Teague. Please! Give me the stories of James and Cam! As well as all the other interesting people along the way.
Overall I really liked this and it is as an awesome start to a new series!
February 7, 2021
I received this ARC through NetGalley
4/5 stars.
I love the idea of second chances. Alex was down on his luck after losing his job and his friends were following in the same boat as well as being kicked out of their respective houses. Alex and his sister lost their parents at a really young age and he took over the parental role for his younger sister. When she found out that he lost his job, she bought a "lotto" ticket to win a hotel as a way to earn back their luck.
Of course, they win and now they get to start over in Maryland.
That's where Sydney comes in. She is back in a town that she ran far away from as soon as she graduated high school, but now she is back because of a scare in her grandmother's health, but it is going to be short-lived. At one point, when things weren't looking very good, she fibbed to her grandmother that she was engaged in some whirlwind romance, and just as her luck could have it, handsome Alex walks into her family-run restaurant and gets sucked into the lie.
It works in both their favors that Sydney's grandmother can stay happy and excited during chemo treatments while Alex gets some much-needed face time with the town. But can they continue to pretend that they don't work well together as a couple?
I enjoyed this book. It was nicely paced with the attraction from the start. I do wish the author had dived in a bit more with the backstory about why Alex loses his job in the first place, but I think it might tie in with the other books as they come out. I also feel like there might be a hinting relationship between two of the other main characters which I would LOVE to see. The angst is there, but minimal for this feel-good fake relationship romance.
4/5 stars.
I love the idea of second chances. Alex was down on his luck after losing his job and his friends were following in the same boat as well as being kicked out of their respective houses. Alex and his sister lost their parents at a really young age and he took over the parental role for his younger sister. When she found out that he lost his job, she bought a "lotto" ticket to win a hotel as a way to earn back their luck.
Of course, they win and now they get to start over in Maryland.
That's where Sydney comes in. She is back in a town that she ran far away from as soon as she graduated high school, but now she is back because of a scare in her grandmother's health, but it is going to be short-lived. At one point, when things weren't looking very good, she fibbed to her grandmother that she was engaged in some whirlwind romance, and just as her luck could have it, handsome Alex walks into her family-run restaurant and gets sucked into the lie.
It works in both their favors that Sydney's grandmother can stay happy and excited during chemo treatments while Alex gets some much-needed face time with the town. But can they continue to pretend that they don't work well together as a couple?
I enjoyed this book. It was nicely paced with the attraction from the start. I do wish the author had dived in a bit more with the backstory about why Alex loses his job in the first place, but I think it might tie in with the other books as they come out. I also feel like there might be a hinting relationship between two of the other main characters which I would LOVE to see. The angst is there, but minimal for this feel-good fake relationship romance.
February 19, 2021
Cute fake relationship romance
Alex and Sydney are just so cute together. Sydney had me laughing at her cooking skills ... thinking she could become a chef because she could make a grilled cheese without burning it. Alex was so stoic taking the financial risk of renovating an old hotel even though they all were doing the hard work. I found all the characters relatable and I really liked the story ... even though at times it was a little far-fetched and the story dragged a bit. But I am excited for the next book in the series.
Alex, his sister and their best friends are down on their luck. When they win an old hotel in a lottery, they decide to see if they can make it work ... after all, they are all jobless and next to homeless. Sydney's grandmother has cancer and needs treatment, so Sydney decides to go home to see her grandmother and help her dad in the mercantile. But when Sydney thought her grandmother was dying, she might have mentioned that she was engaged ... even though she doesn't even have a boyfriend. Now to keep up the ruse and her grandmother's spirits, she cons a total stranger (Alex) to pretend to be her fiancé ... just until Sydney leaves town in 3 months when her grandmother's treatments are done. Now all they have to do is keep this fake relationship fake.
I received an early copy courtesy of Tule Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
Alex and Sydney are just so cute together. Sydney had me laughing at her cooking skills ... thinking she could become a chef because she could make a grilled cheese without burning it. Alex was so stoic taking the financial risk of renovating an old hotel even though they all were doing the hard work. I found all the characters relatable and I really liked the story ... even though at times it was a little far-fetched and the story dragged a bit. But I am excited for the next book in the series.
Alex, his sister and their best friends are down on their luck. When they win an old hotel in a lottery, they decide to see if they can make it work ... after all, they are all jobless and next to homeless. Sydney's grandmother has cancer and needs treatment, so Sydney decides to go home to see her grandmother and help her dad in the mercantile. But when Sydney thought her grandmother was dying, she might have mentioned that she was engaged ... even though she doesn't even have a boyfriend. Now to keep up the ruse and her grandmother's spirits, she cons a total stranger (Alex) to pretend to be her fiancé ... just until Sydney leaves town in 3 months when her grandmother's treatments are done. Now all they have to do is keep this fake relationship fake.
I received an early copy courtesy of Tule Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
February 24, 2021
Book one in Christi Barth’s new Love Lotteries series, The Accidental Fiancé is set in Chestertown, Maryland. It is a delightful story full of clever, quick-fire banter between Alex and Sydney, the hero and heroine, and pearls of wisdom from Sydney’s grandmother Daisy, who is smart as a whip and plenty of fun.
At first I thought this story was a rom-com and there are certainly plenty of funny moments, but it’s a little deeper than that.
As the title suggests, this story is all about a little white lie that somehow spirals out of control and of course Alex and Sydney fall in love along the way. There’s more the the story than this, however, because Alex and his three friends have won a huge but run-down Three Oaks Inn in a lottery. Alex, the only one with hotel experience, thinks he knows all about managing the renovation project, only to discover that he’s got a lot to learn about trust and delegating. Sydney, meanwhile, has her own issues to deal with. Learning to like living in her hometown, a place she all but fled ten years earlier, is the easy bit. Learning that lying by omission isn’t going to protect the people she cares about is a big step for her.
There’s heaps that I loved about this story. First and foremost, it made me smile. Secondly the dialogue is fresh and witty and really sparkles. Finally, I loved the characters. I can’t wait to read book two.
At first I thought this story was a rom-com and there are certainly plenty of funny moments, but it’s a little deeper than that.
As the title suggests, this story is all about a little white lie that somehow spirals out of control and of course Alex and Sydney fall in love along the way. There’s more the the story than this, however, because Alex and his three friends have won a huge but run-down Three Oaks Inn in a lottery. Alex, the only one with hotel experience, thinks he knows all about managing the renovation project, only to discover that he’s got a lot to learn about trust and delegating. Sydney, meanwhile, has her own issues to deal with. Learning to like living in her hometown, a place she all but fled ten years earlier, is the easy bit. Learning that lying by omission isn’t going to protect the people she cares about is a big step for her.
There’s heaps that I loved about this story. First and foremost, it made me smile. Secondly the dialogue is fresh and witty and really sparkles. Finally, I loved the characters. I can’t wait to read book two.
February 22, 2021
Christi Barth has a brand new fun series, Love Lottery with the first book being The Accidental Fiancé. Everything about this story is wonderful, the worst Christmas changing into one of promise and adventure. The siblings and friends taking on the historic, dilapidated inn on the Maryland shore. I could easily see through their eyes the inn and surrounding area, the hard work that would be needed and a vision to care it out. I was sold on this story long before the romance came into play.
Then Sydney Darrow happens. The friends join in, the grandmother is thrilled and the fake fiancé is going like wildfire for three months tops. Sydney fits into this group so well even if she wants to return to her life traveling the world producing travel shows. As the renovations list gets check off and the romance blossoms, it turns out that it really is a small world after all. A page turner to see if honesty will right the wrongs while love conquers all.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Then Sydney Darrow happens. The friends join in, the grandmother is thrilled and the fake fiancé is going like wildfire for three months tops. Sydney fits into this group so well even if she wants to return to her life traveling the world producing travel shows. As the renovations list gets check off and the romance blossoms, it turns out that it really is a small world after all. A page turner to see if honesty will right the wrongs while love conquers all.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 12, 2021
Christi Barth’s first installment in the Love Lottery series, Accidental Fiancé, has set a pretty high bar for the remainder of stories in the series. If the remaining installments are as top notch as Accidental Fiancé, I’m calling the entire series a sure fire winner.
With a rapidly moving storyline, and rife with witty banter, phenomenal repartee...timing is everything...along with a clever premise that’ll still bring a few surprises as the layers of the story are pealed away. I literally couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough and finished the story in its entirety in one sitting...to me that’s the earmark of an author who knows her reader audience, and just how to deliver a class act of a story. I’m already anticipating just how much I’ll enjoy the second story in the series.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
With a rapidly moving storyline, and rife with witty banter, phenomenal repartee...timing is everything...along with a clever premise that’ll still bring a few surprises as the layers of the story are pealed away. I literally couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough and finished the story in its entirety in one sitting...to me that’s the earmark of an author who knows her reader audience, and just how to deliver a class act of a story. I’m already anticipating just how much I’ll enjoy the second story in the series.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
February 25, 2021
I really enjoy this author, so when I found this book up for review, I jumped at the chance to read it. I loved Alex and Sydney! Their situation was humorous, steamy, and full of what you would expect when a small town gets involved in the lives of the newly “engaged” couple. Alex is from Pittsburgh, recently fired from his job, his sister, her BFF and his best friend win a old hotel in the small town of Chestertown, which ends up being an old broken down hotel in dire shape. Sydney is the granddaughter of the local Mercantile Restaurant, who left town to find her way after high school, but is now back because her grandmother has been diagnosed with cancer. The way these two meet is pretty darn funny, which the humor continues throughout the story and makes it a very enjoyable read. Loved Amelia, Everleigh and Teague. James was hysterical, and the heartstrings are definitely tugged with Brody and Gram. Ending was perfect and I cannot wait for the second installment.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
March 3, 2021
A book about a fake engagement, sign me up! These are definitely one of the funnier tropes and this book didn't disappoint. But it's not just about a fake engagement, it's about friendship, coming to terms with your past and striking out on your own.
Sydney Darrow returns home to help out the family business for the next 3 months. Prior to arriving, she let her grandmother know that she had a fiancé (who doesn't actually exist). When Alex Kirkland, new co-owner of the dilapidated Three Oaks Inn, walks into her family's shop, Sydney's grandmother mistakes him for Sydney's fiancé and the lie begins.
Initially, I was confused by the book. I didn't understand who was who, but after the first couple chapters, everything started making so much more sense. While the book does drag in spots, I enjoyed the story and the characters. I really wish we got to see more of the grandmother because she was a hoot.
I can't wait to read more from this series because I want to know what happens to Teague, Everleigh and Amelia.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Sydney Darrow returns home to help out the family business for the next 3 months. Prior to arriving, she let her grandmother know that she had a fiancé (who doesn't actually exist). When Alex Kirkland, new co-owner of the dilapidated Three Oaks Inn, walks into her family's shop, Sydney's grandmother mistakes him for Sydney's fiancé and the lie begins.
Initially, I was confused by the book. I didn't understand who was who, but after the first couple chapters, everything started making so much more sense. While the book does drag in spots, I enjoyed the story and the characters. I really wish we got to see more of the grandmother because she was a hoot.
I can't wait to read more from this series because I want to know what happens to Teague, Everleigh and Amelia.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
January 27, 2021
This is a fun story that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Alex, his sister, and two friends, win a lottery with an inn as the prize. Since they've all been down on their luck and a bit lost, they're thrilled and move to the inn, only to learn that it needs a great deal more work than they'd been told. As they dig in to their work load, they begin too meet the townspeople and engage with the community. When Alex meets Sidney, sparks fly, and, almost before he knows it, he's fake engaged to her. Heat and humor follow, along with a great hook.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. I'm giving it 4.5 stars, only because the middle of the book seemed to drag a bit. I'm a fan of the author and have her on my must read authors' list.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. I'm giving it 4.5 stars, only because the middle of the book seemed to drag a bit. I'm a fan of the author and have her on my must read authors' list.
February 1, 2021
Alex, his sister, and his two best friends have one the chance of a lifetime when they win a raffle for an abandoned inn. When they arrive it's not exactly in the condition they been expecting.
Sydney is back in town to help out at the family mercantile after her grandmother's diagnosis and subsequent treatment of cancer. Only, she might have told a tiny white lie to give her grandmother peace when she thought she was going to die. That she was engaged.
When the grandmother misunderstands and thinks Alex is the Fiancé, Sydney convinces him to play along. Expected Hijinks ensue.
The Accidental Fiancé was a cute heartwarming romance. Well written with characters that it was easy to relate to.
*This eARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Sydney is back in town to help out at the family mercantile after her grandmother's diagnosis and subsequent treatment of cancer. Only, she might have told a tiny white lie to give her grandmother peace when she thought she was going to die. That she was engaged.
When the grandmother misunderstands and thinks Alex is the Fiancé, Sydney convinces him to play along. Expected Hijinks ensue.
The Accidental Fiancé was a cute heartwarming romance. Well written with characters that it was easy to relate to.
*This eARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2021
Sweet, funny and heartwarming, The Accidental Fiancé is a cute fake relationship romance.
When a chance lottery win for an abandoned inn might be the new start Alex, his sister and two best friend needed, they pack up their lives and move to a small town in Maryland.
The only thing that managed to get Sydney to return to her home town after so many years globe trotting was her Gram's dire diagnosis.
But when a chance meeting mixed with a little white lie Sydney told her Gram causes a misunderstanding, a fake relationship is the only way to protect her Grams heart and of course, hijinks ensue.
4 stars and 3 oaks.
When a chance lottery win for an abandoned inn might be the new start Alex, his sister and two best friend needed, they pack up their lives and move to a small town in Maryland.
The only thing that managed to get Sydney to return to her home town after so many years globe trotting was her Gram's dire diagnosis.
But when a chance meeting mixed with a little white lie Sydney told her Gram causes a misunderstanding, a fake relationship is the only way to protect her Grams heart and of course, hijinks ensue.
4 stars and 3 oaks.
February 19, 2021
This was an enjoyable read. It is a story about four best friends that buy a lottery ticket and win an Inn. They are all at a low point in their lives so when they win, they all go. What a journey it is for them all. The inn is not exactly what they all expected it to be. This first story is about Sydney and Alex. Honestly in the beginning these two do not mix well together. When Sydney’s grandma thinks Alex is her fiancé all the fun begins. I do not want to ruin the story for you, but I will say this. Pick up this book and give it a chance because you will not be disappointed. Thanks Net Galley. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2021
Sweet. I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This author is new to me. The Accidental Fiance is the first book in a brand-new series called Love Lottery. This is Sydney and Alex's story. Sydney never thought that she would go back home, but here she is only because they need her. Alex is in a new town, also having a new business with three of his friends. I loved the characters in this book! The chemistry between them is HOT! After a misunderstanding, Alex and Sydney has pretend to be engaged. Sooner or later somewhere the lines start blurring together. How can you tell which is fake or real? I couldn't stop reading until the end. And then I wanted MORE! Can't wait to see what comes next in this series. Keep up the good work.
February 12, 2021
I had not read a Christi Barth story in awhile but this looked interesting, and IT WAS! It was so enjoyable. Four people thrown together on Christmas Eve, all broke, homeless and out of work, but still best friends and family, buy a lottery ticket to win a Inn in Maryland. And this is our the story begins. I loved each character in this story, and truly hope they all get their own storyline. Alex used to be the manager of a fancy hotel, but got fired, so when they win the Inn, they all agree to start over, in Maryland at An old Inn that desperately need some TLC. Alex meets Sydney who needs a fake fiancé and the story takes off. While Alex and Sydney had the biggest roles in this book, and of course wind their way to a HEA, I felt like each character was sufficiently fleshed out so that I felt invested. An easy enjoyable read, and I hope for more.
February 4, 2021
I loved the characters in this book! Four friends playing off each other as they work to renovate a beautiful hotel in sad disrepair. It is a novel of restoration-of the hotel, of a man plagued by bad choices and of a woman reconciling her past with her present. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 1, 2021
This is the 1st in a new series and is Alex and Sydney’s story. Sydney is back in her hometown because her grandma needs her, and Alex and his sister and friends have won money on the lottery which they pooled together to buy a historic and dilapidated inn. Sydney had told her grandma that she was engaged, and when she mistakenly takes Alex as the fiancé, they agree to play along. This is a good story which is intriguing and entertaining. I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
February 1, 2021
I voluntarily read a advanced reader's copy of this book for a honest opinion.
The great start to a wonderful series the Love Lottery series. The Accidental Fiancé by Christi Barth a new to me author.
A story of coming home, new friends, old issues, and new adventures in a small town. I look forward to reading more in the Love Lottery series and more books by Christi Barth.
The great start to a wonderful series the Love Lottery series. The Accidental Fiancé by Christi Barth a new to me author.
A story of coming home, new friends, old issues, and new adventures in a small town. I look forward to reading more in the Love Lottery series and more books by Christi Barth.
February 15, 2021
Winning the property in a lottery was a second chance. This is the first book in the series.
February 21, 2021
The start of a new series can sometimes be a bit chaotic, as the author tries to set the scene not only for the book we are reading but also the people and the place that the following books will be centred around, all in all, Christi Barth did a good job of introducing us, to not only Alex, his sister and their friends but the Tree Oaks Inn, their new venture, and the place 'Alex hopes can be a success. The interplay between this group is great and goes to show families don't have to be the ones you are born into.
Globe trotter, Sydney is only in Chesapeake Bay while her grandmother is ill, she plans to return to the real world. But when her grandma mistakes Alex for her fiance, well things are about to get a little tricky. Not sure really how they pulled it off but they do, but as we know, with all secrets and half-truths when they come out, it doesn't always end the way you planned.
This is a slow burn romance, but the chemistry is clear between Sydney and Alex and looking forward to the next book in this series.
Globe trotter, Sydney is only in Chesapeake Bay while her grandmother is ill, she plans to return to the real world. But when her grandma mistakes Alex for her fiance, well things are about to get a little tricky. Not sure really how they pulled it off but they do, but as we know, with all secrets and half-truths when they come out, it doesn't always end the way you planned.
This is a slow burn romance, but the chemistry is clear between Sydney and Alex and looking forward to the next book in this series.
February 12, 2021
Alex is one strong stubborn man.
Sydney is a smart sexy woman.
Everliegh has bad judgement when it comes to who she dates.
Teague is Alex sounding board.
Amelia gives the best Christmas presents. That make for an odd mix. But there isn’t anything they wouldn’t do for each other. There not afraid to go after what they want.
Sydney is a smart sexy woman.
Everliegh has bad judgement when it comes to who she dates.
Teague is Alex sounding board.
Amelia gives the best Christmas presents. That make for an odd mix. But there isn’t anything they wouldn’t do for each other. There not afraid to go after what they want.
August 24, 2023
This was a great fake fiancé fall in love for real book. The story was interesting and something very different. I loved the lottery aspect. It made the whole thing crazy.
March 10, 2021
Sweet and emotional.
I like Alex and his friends. They work together to overcome their losses. Teague won't let Alex get away with bossing them around. He knows Alex means well, but all work is not the way to live. It is good that they are able to get the renovations done on the Inn as well as getting to know their new hometown.
I love Sydney's Grandma. She is upbeat even in the midst of her chemo treatments. She has good advice for Sydney.
It's amazing how everything comes together. Surprises await!
I hope there are more books coming about Three Oaks. Teague, Everleigh, Amelia, and James all deserve their own stories.
review by LAURA
Sweet. I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This author is new to me. The Accidental Fiancé is the first book in a brand-new series called Love Lottery. This is Sydney and Alex's story. Sydney never thought that she would go back home, but here she is only because they need her. Alex is in a new town, also having a new business with three of his friends. I loved the characters in this book! The chemistry between them is HOT! After a misunderstanding, Alex and Sydney has pretend to be engaged. Sooner or later somewhere the lines start blurring together. How can you tell which is fake or real? I couldn't stop reading until the end. And then I wanted MORE! Can't wait to see what comes next in this series. Keep up the good work.
review by CHANTELLE
RATING 5 STARS
I like Alex and his friends. They work together to overcome their losses. Teague won't let Alex get away with bossing them around. He knows Alex means well, but all work is not the way to live. It is good that they are able to get the renovations done on the Inn as well as getting to know their new hometown.
I love Sydney's Grandma. She is upbeat even in the midst of her chemo treatments. She has good advice for Sydney.
It's amazing how everything comes together. Surprises await!
I hope there are more books coming about Three Oaks. Teague, Everleigh, Amelia, and James all deserve their own stories.
review by LAURA
Sweet. I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This author is new to me. The Accidental Fiancé is the first book in a brand-new series called Love Lottery. This is Sydney and Alex's story. Sydney never thought that she would go back home, but here she is only because they need her. Alex is in a new town, also having a new business with three of his friends. I loved the characters in this book! The chemistry between them is HOT! After a misunderstanding, Alex and Sydney has pretend to be engaged. Sooner or later somewhere the lines start blurring together. How can you tell which is fake or real? I couldn't stop reading until the end. And then I wanted MORE! Can't wait to see what comes next in this series. Keep up the good work.
review by CHANTELLE
RATING 5 STARS
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