Kiss Me, Baby, One More Time

Maple Creek Romantic Comedy #2

by Cindy Ray Hale

Fake dating is easy until opposites attract!

Eccentric hippie, Onyx Sharp, is the maid of honor in her best friend’s wedding. But she's not happy about having to spend so much time with the best man, Taylor. Not only does she distrust men, but being around him annoys her. The last thing she expects is for him to kiss her impulsively at a party before the wedding. And the main problem is, she wants him to kiss her one more time, but she’s not sure she can let her heart trust again.

Straight-laced surgeon Taylor Roberts is tired of being teased about being eternally single by the other groomsmen. He makes a bet that he can get the beautiful maid of honor to date him before the wedding is over. The problem is, she can’t stand him! He promises he’ll give up his booth in the Maple Creek Fall Festival to her mom’s crystal shop if she’ll pretend to date him, an offer he knows she can’t pass up.

The longer Onyx is around Taylor the more she feels drawn to him, despite being his polar opposite. Can she continue the facade of dating him when her heart gets involved?

If you enjoy sweet romantic comedy set in a small town where opposites attract, then you’ll love this book!

Genres: Romance, Clean Romance, Contemporary

139 pages, ebook

Published December 30, 2020

About the author

Cindy Ray Hale loves to write romcoms set in small towns and has been writing and publishing books since 2012, all the while, laughing at her own funny stories. She is married to the sweetest guy and has a blended family with him, consisting of seven kids.

She loves nerding out on video games, creating book covers, and drinking too much caffeine. When she can find a moment, she loves to sing and play the piano and often includes acting and singing somewhere in her stories.

She was born and raised in the hills of Tennessee in a large crazy family and as an adult, has moved all over the United States. She's finally settled down in a small town in the mountains of western Virginia where she loves to go hiking, boating, and dig in her garden.

Reviews

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved the premise--just wanted more!

I really a good opposites attract story and Onyx and Taylor are about at the most extreme ends as possible. An impulsive kiss leads to a fake relationship that was entertaining and sweet, and I'm a sucker for a relationship of convenience.

I loved the premise and idea of this story, but I didn't completely emotionally connect, and I think it's because I wanted it to be longer and more developed. That aside, there were some funny (albeit embarrassing) moments and some glimpses of swoon that left me wanting more.

I do enjoy the Maple Creek setting and it was fun to get a sight of familiar characters in this charming small town.

Content: mild romance; some potty-related humor

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a short, easy listen. The characters were interesting with occupations and connections you don't see frequently in romcoms: orthopedic surgeon and a wedding dress shop owner vegan daughter of a psychic. The MMC is impulsive, as shown by the opening scene between the 2 main characters, as well as his response to the climactic conflict. Glad that was resolved how it should have been. There was potty humor I could have done without. Overall light, sweet and clean.

[Meredith · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

Cute, clean, easy read.
I like revisiting towns and characters. I was happy to see Will and Layla again and will happily read any of Cindy Ray Hale's future books.

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy this small town and the antics that occur within it. There are great characters, good banter, and some humorous moments. Some of the humor was so completely unexpected it had me smothering my laughs so as not to wake the children. There was a bit of psychic and crystals.

I received an ARC an am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Teya Teya]

A great story with a great storyline. I like how it touches on subjects that are real issues. Forgiving and letting go of the past is the theme of this book. It was a sweet book and look forward to more.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun and charming story! The characters were relatable and easy to fall in love with. A really sweet, feel-good story that had me captivated till the very end. This book will pull you right in and keep you engaged and smiling all the way through. The author does a great job of bringing the story to life with great characters that are lovable and endearing. I loved how incredibly real and relatable they were. Taylor and Onyx were such opposites but so perfect for each other. What started out as a fake relationship unquestionably developed into something more. So many fun, laugh out loud moments just kept me smiling all the way through. With some interesting twists along the way, you'll be turning the pages till you finish and if you're like me, will be sad the story is over! Highly recommended!

I was gifted an advanced reader's copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Jill · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was disappointed with this book. I was hoping for great and just got something lackluster. Onyx felt drawn to Taylor, plus they had a lot of chemistry. Things that just don’t happen everyday. But instead of thinking that they must be attracted for a reason, she pushes him away thinking that they wouldn’t have anything in common just because of his profession vs hers. That is what I don’t get, maybe it’s because I’m from Hippie California that I don’t understand how being a doctor means that you don’t also believe in alternative medicine. Or how that would even restrict who you should or shouldn’t date. I didn’t connect with the characters and really only liked Taylor. It had it’s funny moments but overall the back and forth of whether or not to date and why got irritating.
Rating: PG, clean

[Rose Arbor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another friend, Another Wedding

I am liking this series. It is fun to know all the characters.

This is another fake relationship story. Could two people be more different? Onyx believes in natural things. She is a vegan, exercises regularly, and doesn't trust doctors. Taylor is an orthopedic surgeon. Onyx is recovering from an abusive relationship. Taylor has been busy with school, then setting up his practice. Onyx resents Taylor because he got the last table at the Fall Festival. Taylor is awkward around women. Yet Taylor accepts a bet that he can get a girlfriend. And Onyx is the girl he wants.

This is the second book in this series. I liked the first one and I liked this one, too. The stories are clean and enjoyable.

I read this book for free with Kindle Unlimited.

[Kaytlen Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was such a cute and fun read. I loved reading about characters that are opposites with some similar interests as opposed to the characters that are just a perfect match. Taylor and Onyx work so well together despite their different lifestyles- one of clean eating and naturopathic ways versus a medical surgeon who is a picky eater and loves junk food. Throwing in a bet and a fake relationship that turns to real just makes it all the better. Kiss Me, Baby, One More Time kept me smiling from the first impromptu kiss to the two working their way past the main conflict.

Cindy Ray Hale created a great story that has me wanting to go back and read the first one. This wholesome book is a relaxing and enjoyable chick flick.

[Tara Peters · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, but wish it was a little longer. I thought that Taylor and Onyx had a lot of potential, but due to the overall length of the book, all of their interactions were sped up. The reason behind them dating was good, I just wish that his ‘friend’ would have gotten what was coming to him.
When her ex came back into the picture it was upsetting to see how Taylor handled it, as well as, Onyx’s apparent reaction. If the reasoning behind her momentary lapse would have been delved into more, I would have appreciated the conflict more. The sweet things he did when they were dating were awesome and his grand gesture was amazing.
I can’t wait to see what happens with Sully and the rest of the gang. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.

[ChriseBee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella focused on Onyx and Taylor, wedding dress shop owner and orthopedic surgeon respectively, who were introduced in book 1. Very opposites attract, which made their fake dating funny. I found myself liking Onyx more as the story progressed because I began to understand her attitude based on her past. Layla and Will from book 1 also make appearances throughout, which was nice to catch up with them while their best friends faked it until they made their sweet love true.

I enjoyed this story. It was longer than the first, and I liked that there was more time for me to understand the characters and feel invested in their journey. While it had funny elements, there was also a serious tone that balanced the story, and I was satisfied with the ending.

[Lorraine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always appreciate a clean interesting romance. This one is more of a 3 1/2 star for me. Taylor & Onyx seemed to be likable characters if not very relatable. Taylor is a surgeon so he must at least be in his early 30's yet seems to have the maturity of a frat boy. Onyx goes on about her PTSD from prior 2 year relationship, yet what is described is merely manipulative and maybe emotionally abusive(that term would be a stretch) I appreciate the authors effort to write clean and emotional romance but this one may tend to the overdrama in attempts to amp the emotion. Good effort at unique characters.

I received an ARC for my honest review.

[Shanna Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Another awesome start in this book. Fake relationships are so much fun when done well, and this one definitely was. I didn't feel tons of chemistry at first between the two, but they grow on you. You will be laughing so hard and wanting to hide from secondhand embarrassment at some points.

As a side note..A few parts did read a bit immature in the amount of detail and wording (food positioning, car sick, etc). So if that stuff bothers you, be prepared for a few scenes. If it wasn't for those details, it would be 4 stars. I LOVE the authors books so I'll for sure keep reading them, those scenes were just off-putting for me.

[Penny Leidecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book actually made me laugh out loud, more than once. This was such a fun read. The second book in the Maple Creek series centers around orthopedic surgeon Taylor and Onyx, owner of wedding dress shop. Onyx doesn’t like Taylor, but she sure did enjoy that kiss he laid on her,lol. When Taylor makes a bet that he can get a girlfriend by Will’s wedding, he asks Onyx to be his fake girlfriend. She agrees. I won’t leave any spoilers, but don’t be like Onyx and eat week old pot stickers before a double date, lol. I’m looking forward to book three in this series.

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun read based on opposites attract and Onyx and Taylor couldn't be more different! The vegan hippy and the quiet, junk food eating doctor. Seems unlikely to work but never say never.
What I really liked was how real and human our protagonists are. It isn't just lovey dovey romance . Our couple have embarrassing moments especially Onyx. Things that can happen but are taboo and not mentioned. Normal bodily fuctions don't usually find their way into a romantic story. I found the normality so refreshing.
Can't wait for the next installment.

[Ellen Hogan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taylor, an orthopedic surgeon has trouble talking to women. Onyx is still bitter and hurt from her relationship with Wyatt. Then at one of Taylor’s parties he makes a bet with his friend Dylan. He walks across the room and kisses Onyx. When he asks her on a date she says no. Finally they decide to fake date.

Cute story as all Cindy Ray Hale’s books I have read have been. Well rounded story with very likable characters. Pick this one up for a great read.

I was given this advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jennifer Jorgensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first, I had a hard time connecting with Onyx and Taylor, they seemed like such a disparate match. In a way, it’s part of what made the book. Onyx certainly didn’t think they fit. I really didn’t like Dylan, not sure why he was considered a friend of Taylor and Will, but he was kind of the impetus Taylor and Onyx needed to come together and begin realizing that they weren’t completely incompatible. As they realized that, it was easier to engage with the story and the characters. I really enjoyed the give and take between Onyx and Taylor.

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

What is it about weddings that brings out interesting emotions in the people who attend? Onyx and Taylor are both interesting people who each have their own issues. She is still smarting from a bad break-up and he is accomplished in his work and a bit inept in his personal life. What starts as a bet for him opens the door, with a kiss, to them moving from fake dating and working their way forward with missteps to a relationship. It was at times fun, at times their growing pains are showing but all in all this was cute.

[Wendy Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story of Onyx Sharp and Taylor Roberts. She is into natural therapies and he is a doctor. She has come out of a traumatic experience with her last boyfriend. Taylor has never had time for a girlfriend.

Taylor is to be best man for his friend's wedding He is bet by one of his friends that he will be unable to get a girlfriend and hold on to her until after the wedding.

Onyx is the maid of honor. Taylor latches onto Onyx and they agree to have a false friendship. They are opposites but become attracted to each other.

This is a sweet romance.

[Lori R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the chemistry between Onyx and Taylor, who clearly seemed to be opposites in every way. The sparks really flew from their first kiss and prompted them establishing a fake relationship that would benefit both of them.

I enjoyed some of the funny, romantic comedy moments too. It was fun returning to Maple Creek, which is a fun place to read about with wonderful characters. I received advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Karen Brasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kiss me, Baby, One More Time

Such a cute romantic comedy book. Taylor has bet he could find a girlfriend by his friends wedding. He promptly goes up to the maid of honor, Onyx, and kisses her. What he didn’t expect was the chemistry they had. The problem is that Onyx has suffered a bad relationship with her previous boy and she isn’t looking for another. Oh, I didn’t mention she is also his total opposite. Don’t miss this fun story.

[Christie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Almost DNF but pushed through. The dialogue is just…unbelievable. There were a lot of situations that could have been hilarious, but they were written from a POV that didn’t take advantage of the humor. It was like the reader was being told everything instead of experiencing it with the characters.

Since the first two books/novellas in this series were so disappointing, I’m not sure I’ll read the rest.

[Denice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun story; it starts as a fake relationship. Taylor is challenged by his friend to find a date for his wedding and next thing he is kissing Onyx. They have such fun things that happen, a funny donkey at the campfire and more. The great chemistry that flows between them. The fun banter between all the couples. I also loved listening to the audio of this story as well, this is such a fantastic book, and enjoyable read!

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute story of opposites -- A doctor vs. a wedding dress shop owner. Loves meat vs. vegan. Can two people who are opposites take a fake relationship and turn it into a real relationship and make it last? Maple Creek seems like a great small town. Looking forward to more stories of its residents.

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy this small town and the antics that occur within it. There are great characters, good banter, and some humorous moments. Some of the humor was so completely unexpected it had me smothering my laughs so as not to wake the children. There was a bit of psychic and crystals.

I received an ARC an am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Mary Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a cute, clean read that provides a good escape. Taylor and Onyx enter into a pretend relationship and discover that they actually like and respect each other. I was concerned that large periods of time were passed over and that the plot and characters weren't developed more than they were. This is the second in a series, and it is helpful to read the previous book first.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exe’s can sure mess you up

These two are polar opposites, but the saying is that opposites attract. It’s so true here. What a fun short romance. PTSD is a real event and can cause stress for anyone. But it also can be overcome with therapy, relaxation, and effort. Talking helps. Love and romance can be a great incentive as well. Enjoy!

[Rebecca White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this audiobook the story was fantastic and lots of fun. I enjoyed the crazy situations and awkward conversations the characters had. I also appreciated the way the author dealt with the struggles of leaving behind an abusive relationship. The narrator was fabulous and did a great job of portraying the characters.

[Shaylin Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this one on audio and really enjoyed it.
There were a few parts I wasn’t expecting that made me laugh out loud.
Plenty of sweet romance, lots of humor and great characters.
I haven’t read the first book in the series but I will probably slowly read all of them (especially if they are like this one).

[Mary Mccormack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was blessed to receive an audiobook ARC of this one and truly enjoyed it. The back and forth in this story amongst characters and the storyline had me listening till the end. Truly a great listen and loved the narration because it helped me settle right in like a kid listening to stories during story time.