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Forever Adirondacks #2
Sweet Love
Falling for your best friend might be a recipe for disaster, but this small-town baker can't help jumping from her pie pan into the fire.
Mila Bailey has always had a special talent for creating unique, show-stopping pies. But until her great-aunt leaves her the entry fee to the Pine Ridge Spring Bake-Off, she's only ever shared them with friends and family. Thrust into the spotlight, Mila is determined to prove to everyone--but mostly herself--that she has what it takes to compete with top-level bakers. There's only one flaw in her plan: The not-so-half-baked feelings she's starting to develop for her best friend, Jared Kirkland.
Jared has always believed in Mila's gifts, but lately he's struggling not to fantasize about sampling more than just the spoon from the batter. No matter how much he tries to tell himself that Mila is not for him--his dreams have always reached beyond Pine Ridge--he can't deny this new spark between them.
Mila embodies Pine Ridge, and Jared wants to break free. How can either of them move on knowing the loves of their lives have been right under their noses all along?
Mila Bailey has always had a special talent for creating unique, show-stopping pies. But until her great-aunt leaves her the entry fee to the Pine Ridge Spring Bake-Off, she's only ever shared them with friends and family. Thrust into the spotlight, Mila is determined to prove to everyone--but mostly herself--that she has what it takes to compete with top-level bakers. There's only one flaw in her plan: The not-so-half-baked feelings she's starting to develop for her best friend, Jared Kirkland.
Jared has always believed in Mila's gifts, but lately he's struggling not to fantasize about sampling more than just the spoon from the batter. No matter how much he tries to tell himself that Mila is not for him--his dreams have always reached beyond Pine Ridge--he can't deny this new spark between them.
Mila embodies Pine Ridge, and Jared wants to break free. How can either of them move on knowing the loves of their lives have been right under their noses all along?
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 5, 2021
8 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Accardo
3 books56 followersLauren Accardo writes steamy contemporary romance featuring strong women and the men who love them. Originally from Western New York, Lauren now lives in Queens with her stand-up-comic husband. She loves karaoke, cake, and the Adirondack Mountains, where her series takes place.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 1, 2021
Best friends to lovers is one of my favorite romance troupes so I was really looking forward to Sweet Love by Lauren Accardo but as with the first book in the series the romance was missing from this story. Mila and Jared have a long time friendship and they supposedly know each other really well, but honestly I don’t feel like they knew each other at all by the end of this book. An almost kiss 5 years prior to this story threw them both for a loop, but they moved past and have gone back to their teasing/strange put downs childish behavior. I feel like they maybe never got back to their original friendship after that almost kiss. Mila apparently has wanted more from Jared (that was alluded to late in the story) yet she never even brought it up with him. Jared broke up with his on again/off again bed buddy (since he doesn’t do girlfriends, commitment, and has no plans of marriage and family) and immediately starts seeing Mila in a new way. I didn’t feel any of that between them; they were awkward and at times a bit hateful to one another, and yes they would be sweet and encouraging, but even that was awkward at times. Then they finally went there, they had sex and if was even more awkward not because it was good but because neither one was grown up enough to talk about the feelings they had from being together as lovers. It didn’t help that everyone from friends, family, and townspeople wanted them together and pressured them. It also didn’t help that Jared got extremely jealous when someone else asked Mila out. And it really didn’t help that when Jared was finally ready to face his past and hang ups and go to therapy that Mila flat out told him no, he either needed to commit or get out of her life. Keep in mind that for the most part Mila never spoke her mind, but all of a sudden within three weeks time her personality completely changed and she didn’t understand why Jared was shocked. I felt I got whiplash with every chapter because I didn’t know which side of these characters was going to show up. The story wasn’t cohesive, it was all over the place and I just never really felt into the moment or in the story. Sadly this book just wasn’t for me.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
October 17, 2021
Pine Ridge is such a picturesque setting, and having this story revolve around a town bake-off was the perfect touch. With Mila specializing in sweet and savoury concoctions (caramel apple pie with bacon, for example!), you’ll need to satisfy your sweet tooth after reading.
Friends for years, I loved seeing Jared stumble his way through making his newfound feelings toward Mila known. Hoping to jumpstart her dreams in the culinary world with a bake-off win, Mila is gifted but lacks the confidence. Jared was the champion of encouragement in her life—it was so heartwarming.
Filled with delectable desserts, small-town charm, AND a snowed-in-with-one-bed scene, I had such a great time reading this romance. It would pair well with a hot drink and a cozy blanket. I’m looking forward to book three!
Friends for years, I loved seeing Jared stumble his way through making his newfound feelings toward Mila known. Hoping to jumpstart her dreams in the culinary world with a bake-off win, Mila is gifted but lacks the confidence. Jared was the champion of encouragement in her life—it was so heartwarming.
Filled with delectable desserts, small-town charm, AND a snowed-in-with-one-bed scene, I had such a great time reading this romance. It would pair well with a hot drink and a cozy blanket. I’m looking forward to book three!
September 23, 2021
Friends to lovers? CHECK. Small town quirk? CHECK. Apple Bacon Pie? Yes please! SWEET LOVE checks all the boxes of a beautiful, thoughtful romance (with sexy bits!).
Jared and Mila have been best friends forever. A few years prior to when the book starts, though, something changed. They both got hormones and sexy hot, and started to think about each other differently. But during their time as friends, they've both picked up some baggage along the way. He is a marriage-phobe (based on his experiences), she is a "yes" woman. But a baking contest that brings some new characters to the town helps them sort out their feelings, figure themselves out, and give love a chance.
Set in the small town of Pine Ridge, where wi-fi and cell service are sketchy at best, the mountains aren't that tall but still manage to make a majestic snowy backdrop, and city people can come to see the stars, SWEET LOVE's setting is a character all in itself.
Ms. Accardo excels at characterization and dialogue, which made me love Jared and Mila so much. Oh Jared! How your goofy, real-estate-selling heart stole mine! I especially loved his sweet words to Mila during their more intimate moments. I loved witnessing Mila gain confidence through her baking efforts, which caused her self-esteem to soar in her romantic feelings for her best friend, too.
SWEET LOVE is the second book in the Forever Adirondacks series by Lauren Accardo, but it can be read as a stand alone. Highly recommended for lovers of a quieter romance, where the angst is more internal than external, SWEET LOVE will have you up all night, swiping through your Kindle, because you just can't wait to get to Jared and Mila's happily ever after.
(Thank you, NetGalley and PRH, for the advanced reader copy. I can't wait to grab the paperback so this beautiful cover can decorate my bookshelf next to WILD LOVE.)
Jared and Mila have been best friends forever. A few years prior to when the book starts, though, something changed. They both got hormones and sexy hot, and started to think about each other differently. But during their time as friends, they've both picked up some baggage along the way. He is a marriage-phobe (based on his experiences), she is a "yes" woman. But a baking contest that brings some new characters to the town helps them sort out their feelings, figure themselves out, and give love a chance.
Set in the small town of Pine Ridge, where wi-fi and cell service are sketchy at best, the mountains aren't that tall but still manage to make a majestic snowy backdrop, and city people can come to see the stars, SWEET LOVE's setting is a character all in itself.
Ms. Accardo excels at characterization and dialogue, which made me love Jared and Mila so much. Oh Jared! How your goofy, real-estate-selling heart stole mine! I especially loved his sweet words to Mila during their more intimate moments. I loved witnessing Mila gain confidence through her baking efforts, which caused her self-esteem to soar in her romantic feelings for her best friend, too.
SWEET LOVE is the second book in the Forever Adirondacks series by Lauren Accardo, but it can be read as a stand alone. Highly recommended for lovers of a quieter romance, where the angst is more internal than external, SWEET LOVE will have you up all night, swiping through your Kindle, because you just can't wait to get to Jared and Mila's happily ever after.
(Thank you, NetGalley and PRH, for the advanced reader copy. I can't wait to grab the paperback so this beautiful cover can decorate my bookshelf next to WILD LOVE.)
November 2, 2021
Review: SWEET LOVE by Lauren Accardo https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-bSa
Publication Date: September 28, 2021
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4 Stars
I enjoyed this contemporary romance. A friends-to-lovers story is always fun when the author can clearly show their long relationship without it feeling forced. The banter and camaraderie between them, and their friends, made me smile. I did get quite frustrated with both Jared and Mila during the progression of their romance. His visceral reaction to anything leading to marriage – his and others – was a bit absurd to me. At times, Mila’s reactions to Jared made me growl. However, they managed to have a steamy build to their relationship that I enjoyed. I liked my trip to Pine Ridge and look forward to visiting again. I’m hoping the next installment is for a certain new addition to this lovely town.
*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.
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Kindle https://amzn.to/3nPDPxl
Publication Date: September 28, 2021
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4 Stars
I enjoyed this contemporary romance. A friends-to-lovers story is always fun when the author can clearly show their long relationship without it feeling forced. The banter and camaraderie between them, and their friends, made me smile. I did get quite frustrated with both Jared and Mila during the progression of their romance. His visceral reaction to anything leading to marriage – his and others – was a bit absurd to me. At times, Mila’s reactions to Jared made me growl. However, they managed to have a steamy build to their relationship that I enjoyed. I liked my trip to Pine Ridge and look forward to visiting again. I’m hoping the next installment is for a certain new addition to this lovely town.
*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.
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Kindle https://amzn.to/3nPDPxl
September 30, 2021
4.5 Stars - Top Pick
This is the first book that I have read by Lauren Accardo and man it was a really good book. If you liked By A Thread by Lucy Score you will definitely enjoy this book. I enjoyed the angst between Mia and Jared from the beginning and loved the turbulence that came with them. The author did a great job of giving great backstory for each character. This is a contemporary best-friends-to-lovers romance. It has all the elements of story with a jaded man and a wishful love-struck girl. I loved Jared and Mila relationship. They are each others ride or die and both have feelings for the other they can’t and refuse to reveal. The angst between them is apparent. If you love a little hot steam in your books, you will love this. There isn’t a fade to black, the author goes all in. She also does an amazing job with characterization. The couple doesn’t totally obsess over each other, which is nice. They both have their own goals and lives but are always there for each other, and I loved that.
Mila is a self taught baker—her aunt pushed her—and is what she strives for in life with her new outlook of Mia 2.0. I love how she sticks to her guns and makes the most beautiful and carefully thought out pastries. I liked how she wouldn’t listen to anyone who tries to shoot her dreams down. Especially with her mother. I felt like her mom is a little dream destroyer. I wanted to reach in the book and scream, Don’t you dare listen to her. Mia really was a strong female character and enjoyed how she grows and comes into herself throughout the book.
Jared is stubborn man and totally jaded about love, and I loved every minute of his journey. He knows he wanted something with Mia but what, he isn’t sure. I thought his internal struggle was comical with each approach he took. I think the most hilarious moment is when he took advice from a friend who had no clue about wooing a girl himself. I enjoyed watching him grow through the book as he decides what’s best for him.
I would highly recommend this book. It is a great contemporary BFF to lovers book. I got engrossed in Mia and Jared’s story and didn’t want it to end. I will also be picking up Wild Love the next book in the series.
~ Brooke
This is the first book that I have read by Lauren Accardo and man it was a really good book. If you liked By A Thread by Lucy Score you will definitely enjoy this book. I enjoyed the angst between Mia and Jared from the beginning and loved the turbulence that came with them. The author did a great job of giving great backstory for each character. This is a contemporary best-friends-to-lovers romance. It has all the elements of story with a jaded man and a wishful love-struck girl. I loved Jared and Mila relationship. They are each others ride or die and both have feelings for the other they can’t and refuse to reveal. The angst between them is apparent. If you love a little hot steam in your books, you will love this. There isn’t a fade to black, the author goes all in. She also does an amazing job with characterization. The couple doesn’t totally obsess over each other, which is nice. They both have their own goals and lives but are always there for each other, and I loved that.
Mila is a self taught baker—her aunt pushed her—and is what she strives for in life with her new outlook of Mia 2.0. I love how she sticks to her guns and makes the most beautiful and carefully thought out pastries. I liked how she wouldn’t listen to anyone who tries to shoot her dreams down. Especially with her mother. I felt like her mom is a little dream destroyer. I wanted to reach in the book and scream, Don’t you dare listen to her. Mia really was a strong female character and enjoyed how she grows and comes into herself throughout the book.
Jared is stubborn man and totally jaded about love, and I loved every minute of his journey. He knows he wanted something with Mia but what, he isn’t sure. I thought his internal struggle was comical with each approach he took. I think the most hilarious moment is when he took advice from a friend who had no clue about wooing a girl himself. I enjoyed watching him grow through the book as he decides what’s best for him.
I would highly recommend this book. It is a great contemporary BFF to lovers book. I got engrossed in Mia and Jared’s story and didn’t want it to end. I will also be picking up Wild Love the next book in the series.
~ Brooke
August 11, 2021
Copy provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sweet Love is a sweet, charming and sexy friends to lovers story. I adored getting to know Mila and Jared. Mila was a darling girl with a talent and love for baking pies. Jared is a local real estate agent who wants to help his friend achieve her dreams. They start to work together but realize their feelings for each other go deeper than just friends. These two have to navigate their feels for each other and the town they live in to find a way to be together. Sweet Love was heartfelt and well written. I loved the town and the characters. Mila and Jared had great chemistry and watching them find their way was pure joy!
Sweet Love is a sweet, charming and sexy friends to lovers story. I adored getting to know Mila and Jared. Mila was a darling girl with a talent and love for baking pies. Jared is a local real estate agent who wants to help his friend achieve her dreams. They start to work together but realize their feelings for each other go deeper than just friends. These two have to navigate their feels for each other and the town they live in to find a way to be together. Sweet Love was heartfelt and well written. I loved the town and the characters. Mila and Jared had great chemistry and watching them find their way was pure joy!
November 21, 2021
Flour coated her apron and she was sure maple syrup was stuck on the bottom of her shoe as she frantically ran around the diner filling empty coffee cups. Her mind was spinning, her back hurt, and she wanted to be anywhere but here with these demanding customers that didn’t appreciate her. She wanted to have her own kitchen, whipping up her own creations… but that was an impossible dream. She looked at a happy couple nestled in the corner booth staring lovingly into each other’s eyes and she wanted to gag. She wanted someone special, too, but that was another impossible wish.
Sweet Love is book two in the Forever Adirondack series and as the title states… it is truly a sweet love story! And I really enjoyed getting to return to the small town of Pine Ridge.
Mila is stuck in a life that is far from the dreams she had set for herself, but then a pie baking contest with a reward that could change her life lands in her lap and she decided to go for it. While she’s pouring love into her pies, another love she never thought possible catches her by surprise.
The ending felt a bit rushed to me and I wanted it drawn out just a little bit more, but Mila and Jared had my heart and the rawness of both their characters made me root for them. Two flawed people working through their issues and creating a beautiful relationship.
If you’re a friends to lovers trope fan, a lover of small town romances and like pie… you’ll want to give this book a read!
P. S. This book will make you crave pie.
TW: Alcoholism, Death of a Parent
*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
Sweet Love is book two in the Forever Adirondack series and as the title states… it is truly a sweet love story! And I really enjoyed getting to return to the small town of Pine Ridge.
Mila is stuck in a life that is far from the dreams she had set for herself, but then a pie baking contest with a reward that could change her life lands in her lap and she decided to go for it. While she’s pouring love into her pies, another love she never thought possible catches her by surprise.
The ending felt a bit rushed to me and I wanted it drawn out just a little bit more, but Mila and Jared had my heart and the rawness of both their characters made me root for them. Two flawed people working through their issues and creating a beautiful relationship.
If you’re a friends to lovers trope fan, a lover of small town romances and like pie… you’ll want to give this book a read!
P. S. This book will make you crave pie.
TW: Alcoholism, Death of a Parent
*I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.
October 22, 2021
Sweet Love absolutely lives up to it’s name! It follows Mila, timid, kind, wonderful Mila as she tries to win a local bake-off, and her commitment-phobe real estate agent best friend Jared, who is so charismatic and adorable! First, this book had me craving some treats reading it, so be ready for that if you pick this up. But second, this book is adorable. These characters are charming and sweet and I was enamored with them. Friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine and this book just nailed it. For this, I love that it was a romance that’s been building for a while, that book starts off with them warring with their feelings from each other and both are too afraid to make a move. So it’s a so slow burn that’s so worth it. Their romance is playful and real and steamy. Jared really struggles with his idea of marriage and what his future looks like, and Mila is such a people pleaser. Watching their character growth as individuals is so good! I will say I preferred Mila’s journey to Jared’s—Jared’s felt a little abrupt and I would’ve loved for that to have happened a little more gradually and have gotten a little more insight on his thoughts at the end. But Mila, I absolutely loved watched her get her own footing and watching her confidence grow. She is just so well done. I loved the genuineness of this relationship, I loved the side characters and how supportive they were—I like they all had their own growth too. The writing too was so pretty and I just really had a good time reading this! Can’t wait for the next one in this stand-alone series!
October 4, 2021
What happens when you have a small town setting, a main character who is a baker, best friends who realize they have feelings for each other, a baking competition, that reads like a Hallmark movie? You have a book I can't put down.
Sweet Love by Lauren Accardo is the second book in the Forever Adirondacks series and this book was so good. Not only was it an addicting read but it crossed off so many of my favorite tropes.
Friends to Lovers ✔️
One Bed (IYKYK) ✔️
Small Town Romance ✔️
Damaged Hero ✔️
I really enjoyed reading this book and I so far it's my favorite of the two books in the series.
Thank you Berkley and Netgalley for my ARC.
Sweet Love by Lauren Accardo is the second book in the Forever Adirondacks series and this book was so good. Not only was it an addicting read but it crossed off so many of my favorite tropes.
Friends to Lovers ✔️
One Bed (IYKYK) ✔️
Small Town Romance ✔️
Damaged Hero ✔️
I really enjoyed reading this book and I so far it's my favorite of the two books in the series.
Thank you Berkley and Netgalley for my ARC.
September 2, 2021
Sweet Love absolutely lives up to its title. I adored Mila and Jared, even though I wanted to smack Jared around a few times for being so obtuse. This is an adorable and steamy friends to lovers story with a great cast of supporting characters and set (again) in the charming town of Pine Ridge. I'm looking forward to Accardo's next installment!
December 28, 2021
SWEET LOVE hits the sweet spot.
Two best friends in a small, Adirondack town are at a crossroads. Mila has no confidence in herself, and is happy to settle for working at a diner although she dreams of being a pastry chef. Jared, a commitment-phobe, always wants bigger and better and can't wait to get out of their podunk town and make his fortune in the big city. Can the meek baker and the brash playboy take a risk on each other?
A best-friends-to-lovers romance with a HEA, SWEET LOVE is a winner. I was every bit as invested in the outcome of Mila's baking competition as I was the evolving relationship between her and Jared. There was nothing contrived about their obstacles and their personal growth is both realistic and uplifting. Plus, the steam factor is off the charts!
Two best friends in a small, Adirondack town are at a crossroads. Mila has no confidence in herself, and is happy to settle for working at a diner although she dreams of being a pastry chef. Jared, a commitment-phobe, always wants bigger and better and can't wait to get out of their podunk town and make his fortune in the big city. Can the meek baker and the brash playboy take a risk on each other?
A best-friends-to-lovers romance with a HEA, SWEET LOVE is a winner. I was every bit as invested in the outcome of Mila's baking competition as I was the evolving relationship between her and Jared. There was nothing contrived about their obstacles and their personal growth is both realistic and uplifting. Plus, the steam factor is off the charts!
August 12, 2021
This second novel has solidified me as a Lauren Accardo fan. I adore this series! Like Sam and Sydney, I was completely vested in the relationship of Mila and Jared...stubborn and infuriating-at-times Jared! Accardo's writing style is so accessible and smooth and the sex scenes are...*wipes brow* steamy! As soon as Denny was introduced, I secretly hoped he'd be featured in the third book in the series and he is! I'm already excited to read it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 23, 2021
This second book in Accardo's Forever Adirondacks series is a sweet and sexy, friends-to-lovers story with a feel-good, happy ending and a satisfying amount of emotional depth.
I've been curious about Jared since meeting him in book one, Wild Love (his brother's story). and enjoyed exploring his character in depth in Sweet Love. He's still commitment averse, still eager to put his small hometown in his rearview, and ready to make a name for himself in the big city. It was fun to watch him fall for his best friend but he sure does struggle with what that relationship could possibly mean for his future. The author gives him unexpected layers that are slowly unveiled over the course of the book, revealing the impact of his childhood on the adult man and the reasons behind his determination to leave. It made me like him more and refrain a bit from wanting to whack him during his clueless moments. I also liked that his brother was the one to open his eyes to a few facts when Jared has been the one to perform that service for Sam in book one.
Mina is someone I immediately wanted to be friends with...and not only for her delicious pies. I really connected with this character and was cheering her on from start to finish. I wanted her to chase her dream and do well at it. It hurt my heart when she didn't get the support and encouragement from her family that she deserved. She and Jared have great chemistry, a shared history, and the potential for a wonderful life together. I loved how he supported her dreams but wondered if they could find a way to be together when her roots were deeply planted in Pine Ridge and he couldn't wait to leave. I was so happy that Mina found her strength, her confidence, and finally fought for her dreams. I found myself almost as excited about the outcome of the cooking contest as the romance (almost) but to discover how both of them turned out, you'll need to read the book.
Lauren Accardo will be returning to Pine Ridge on January 25, 2022 for the third book in the series: Bold Love. This one features Denny Torres, an intriguing new character introduced in Sweet Love. I'm eager to catch up with everyone in Pine Ridge and find out what's in store for Denny. If you enjoy small-town romances with humor, sizzle, emotional depth, and feel-good, happy endings, give these books a try.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
I've been curious about Jared since meeting him in book one, Wild Love (his brother's story). and enjoyed exploring his character in depth in Sweet Love. He's still commitment averse, still eager to put his small hometown in his rearview, and ready to make a name for himself in the big city. It was fun to watch him fall for his best friend but he sure does struggle with what that relationship could possibly mean for his future. The author gives him unexpected layers that are slowly unveiled over the course of the book, revealing the impact of his childhood on the adult man and the reasons behind his determination to leave. It made me like him more and refrain a bit from wanting to whack him during his clueless moments. I also liked that his brother was the one to open his eyes to a few facts when Jared has been the one to perform that service for Sam in book one.
Mina is someone I immediately wanted to be friends with...and not only for her delicious pies. I really connected with this character and was cheering her on from start to finish. I wanted her to chase her dream and do well at it. It hurt my heart when she didn't get the support and encouragement from her family that she deserved. She and Jared have great chemistry, a shared history, and the potential for a wonderful life together. I loved how he supported her dreams but wondered if they could find a way to be together when her roots were deeply planted in Pine Ridge and he couldn't wait to leave. I was so happy that Mina found her strength, her confidence, and finally fought for her dreams. I found myself almost as excited about the outcome of the cooking contest as the romance (almost) but to discover how both of them turned out, you'll need to read the book.
Lauren Accardo will be returning to Pine Ridge on January 25, 2022 for the third book in the series: Bold Love. This one features Denny Torres, an intriguing new character introduced in Sweet Love. I'm eager to catch up with everyone in Pine Ridge and find out what's in store for Denny. If you enjoy small-town romances with humor, sizzle, emotional depth, and feel-good, happy endings, give these books a try.
*ARC received for fair and unbiased review
September 28, 2021
Mila Bailey's great-aunt leaves her the entry fee to the Pine Ridge Spring Bake-Off, and she is determined to prove she can compete with top-level bakers. She's also developing for her best friend, Jared Kirkland, who wants to eventually leave Pine Ridge. Though a spark exists between them, their future goals lie in very different directions.
This is book two in the Forever Adirondacks series, and I didn't read the first one. That in no way lessened my enjoyment of this book. Starting off with a feeling of dread at the thought of a "forever home" or a long-term relationship, we meet Jared and see his continual drive to do better and be more. A lot of that was instilled in him by a mother who demanded much and had never been happy with his efforts; many an overachiever reading this will identify with his feelings on the matter. Mila, on the other hand, loves seeing the stars at night and knowing people in town. It's an obvious contrast, setting up the inevitable choice they would have to make if acting on the physical attraction they have for each other.
Even before possible romance kicks in, I really enjoy the friendship that Mila and Jared have. They've known each other a long time but can still learn new things about each other, and encourage each other to follow their dreams. Mila tends to get anxious and withdraw in times of stress, and family and friends really push her out of her comfort zone in a good way, making her see that she's worth the effort and should believe in herself. When the romance starts, it's an added layer that eases and then complicates the relationship they already have. The only thing to fix it is honest communication and self-reflection. Once they know what they want, it's easier to decide that they can't settle for anything less. There's still going to be work to do once the two decide to be together, but they have a great foundation to build from.
This is book two in the Forever Adirondacks series, and I didn't read the first one. That in no way lessened my enjoyment of this book. Starting off with a feeling of dread at the thought of a "forever home" or a long-term relationship, we meet Jared and see his continual drive to do better and be more. A lot of that was instilled in him by a mother who demanded much and had never been happy with his efforts; many an overachiever reading this will identify with his feelings on the matter. Mila, on the other hand, loves seeing the stars at night and knowing people in town. It's an obvious contrast, setting up the inevitable choice they would have to make if acting on the physical attraction they have for each other.
Even before possible romance kicks in, I really enjoy the friendship that Mila and Jared have. They've known each other a long time but can still learn new things about each other, and encourage each other to follow their dreams. Mila tends to get anxious and withdraw in times of stress, and family and friends really push her out of her comfort zone in a good way, making her see that she's worth the effort and should believe in herself. When the romance starts, it's an added layer that eases and then complicates the relationship they already have. The only thing to fix it is honest communication and self-reflection. Once they know what they want, it's easier to decide that they can't settle for anything less. There's still going to be work to do once the two decide to be together, but they have a great foundation to build from.
October 5, 2021
Sweet Love by Lauren Accardo, the book two in her Forever Adirondacks series, is a sweet, charming and smexy friends-to-lovers story. Two best friends in a small, Adirondack town are at a crossroads. Jared and Mila have been best friends forever. Mila lacks self-confidence, is a talented baker, yet happily settling to working at a diner; despite dreaming of being a pastry chef. Jared, a local real estate agent is a commitment-phobe, anxious to get out of their small town and make his fortune in the big city. Jared is determined to help Mila achieve her dreams. As they work together they realize their feelings for each run deeper than just friends. They will need to sort out their feelings for each other and the town they live in before giving love a chance.
Ms. Accardo wrote a wonderful, fun, enjoyable romantic story that filled with chemistry, clever banter, and entertaining secondary characters that should definitely not be missed. I recommend Sweet Love to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Accardo wrote a wonderful, fun, enjoyable romantic story that filled with chemistry, clever banter, and entertaining secondary characters that should definitely not be missed. I recommend Sweet Love to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 10, 2022
Sometimes you read a book and think it was just what you needed on that particular day. That was the case with Lauren Accardo’s WILD LOVE. It totally hit the spot for me and I was looking forward to the second book in her Adirondacks series, SWEET LOVE. Well, she did herself one better. The writing was the same—heartfelt and made you feel like you knew these characters in real life. But the story was an even better one. I saw down with this one and, just like with WILD LOVE didn’t move until I finished it, but it held my attention even more. I just really liked the story of the small town girl making her own big time baking pies. Some of those pies sounded pretty mouth watering and as a fan of cozy mysteries where there are often recipes at the end of the book I was hoping some of Mila’s creations would be found there. Sadly, it didn’t, but that’s okay – it was about the story, not the pie recipes!
February 22, 2022
I never say this about romance books, and I feel so bad because I absolutely loved the first book in this series, however this book was super cringey. I felt secondhand embarrassment reading it. The premise is that Mila and Jared are BFFs but I think they forgot that because at no point did I feel like they were the best of friends.
Both of them could not communicate at all and I think they are both in their thirties. They were acting like they were twenty year-olds playing it cool in their first year of college. It made no sense. And then they had some steamy scenes and still neither of them could grasp what the other was saying. Like both said "I want this so bad" but yet it seemed that they didn't believe it or just didn't hear the other one say it. It was very awkward.
There was just too much miscommunication. If you are best friends with someone you should not have this much trouble communicating with them.
Both of them could not communicate at all and I think they are both in their thirties. They were acting like they were twenty year-olds playing it cool in their first year of college. It made no sense. And then they had some steamy scenes and still neither of them could grasp what the other was saying. Like both said "I want this so bad" but yet it seemed that they didn't believe it or just didn't hear the other one say it. It was very awkward.
There was just too much miscommunication. If you are best friends with someone you should not have this much trouble communicating with them.
November 9, 2021
And this one we get best friends, Jared and Mila who try to figure out going from friends to more. Jared is trying to figure out if Pine Ridge is enough for him- or bigger city is more his thing. Mila is an amazing baker and finally enters the local baking competition and now I want pie! This was super cute - with great characters- slow burn that matched these two- funny but also sad small town life that happens- steam and then spicy steam - and we get a big surprise at the end!!
I love Pine Ridge with it’s no cell service, lakes, small town bars and friends! Can’t wait for more of this series!
I love Pine Ridge with it’s no cell service, lakes, small town bars and friends! Can’t wait for more of this series!
October 3, 2021
I liked the premise of this story but I didn't really love the hero or heroine all that much. They weren't awful or unlikeable but I just wasn't invested in them. separately or as a couple. It felt like a majority of the book was just Jared convincing himself that love and relationships aren't worth it while at the same time pursuing Mila in a way that he never had before. I don't mind doubts and concerns but it just seemed repetitive the way that he thought one way and acted the exact opposite way. I kept hoping for more sparks between Mila and Jared that would get me more invested but they never really came.
I wouldn't actively recommend this book to people but I wouldn't push them away from it either.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for voluntary review
I wouldn't actively recommend this book to people but I wouldn't push them away from it either.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for voluntary review
October 9, 2021
I adored this love story about two friends, Mila and Jared, who finally get their sh*t together to find love and happiness with each other. Mila's emotional journey, from beaten-down and wary to confident, really spoke to me. Jared's journey is about finding happiness and satisfaction in the place you least expected. Again, the setting is the star of the show, with upstate New York's unpredictable early spring weather and breathtaking scenery. While it takes place in the same world as Wild Love, it can be read as a standalone, and I highly recommend it!
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June 27, 2022This book just reinforced the reasons I love friends to lovers 🥰
Mila is a fav! She’s relatable, creative, & growing into the person she wants to be 💕 And Jared is her biggest supporter! 🥰 he’s also discovering his own heart, & his stumbles/hiccups along the way make us smile & swoon 😍
A heartwarming, small town story, set in the fabulous Pine Ridge, had it ALL!
💖friends to lovers
🛏 one bed
🥧dessert
✨small town
👫dual POV
Overall verdict: A brilliant page turner, filled fabulous characters, a baking competition, & enough pie for everyone 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Mila is a fav! She’s relatable, creative, & growing into the person she wants to be 💕 And Jared is her biggest supporter! 🥰 he’s also discovering his own heart, & his stumbles/hiccups along the way make us smile & swoon 😍
A heartwarming, small town story, set in the fabulous Pine Ridge, had it ALL!
💖friends to lovers
🛏 one bed
🥧dessert
✨small town
👫dual POV
Overall verdict: A brilliant page turner, filled fabulous characters, a baking competition, & enough pie for everyone 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
October 18, 2022
Romance set in the north country of NY
Baker seeking make a name for herself falls for her best friend known for his strong feelings against commitment. Will their friendship survive? Will the different dreams pull them apart ( hers to stay in their hometown and further her dream of being a pastry chef while he dreamed of leaving their hometown and joining a real estate company in a large city)? Will he ever recover from growing up watching their parents’ troubled marriage and believe marriage can work?
Quote 223-4: Mika’s mother Caryl formerly reluctant to stand up in the face of conflict advising her daughter to do differently: there are moments in life to sit back. There are moments to keep your head down, listen up, and do what you’re told. Trust me I know a lot about that. I’ve done a lot of that in my life out of fear. I don’t even know what I was afraid of. What I do know is I spent a lot of years wishing I done few a few things differently. I thought you and your sisters to be good, kind people who follow the rules. But there was are also moments in life, daughter, to fight back. There are people in this world who want to tear you down because they think they know what you deserve. And the moment you step too far, they want to put you back in your place. You were very talented. We all know it. If you let this got this Ben guy tell you what to do or don’t deserve, you’ll never forgive yourself. Don’t let anybody else tell you what you’re capable of. don’t let yourself be walked over. It’s too easy to get used to.
Myla set her shoulders. She didn’t want to be a doormat. Not today.
Baker seeking make a name for herself falls for her best friend known for his strong feelings against commitment. Will their friendship survive? Will the different dreams pull them apart ( hers to stay in their hometown and further her dream of being a pastry chef while he dreamed of leaving their hometown and joining a real estate company in a large city)? Will he ever recover from growing up watching their parents’ troubled marriage and believe marriage can work?
Quote 223-4: Mika’s mother Caryl formerly reluctant to stand up in the face of conflict advising her daughter to do differently: there are moments in life to sit back. There are moments to keep your head down, listen up, and do what you’re told. Trust me I know a lot about that. I’ve done a lot of that in my life out of fear. I don’t even know what I was afraid of. What I do know is I spent a lot of years wishing I done few a few things differently. I thought you and your sisters to be good, kind people who follow the rules. But there was are also moments in life, daughter, to fight back. There are people in this world who want to tear you down because they think they know what you deserve. And the moment you step too far, they want to put you back in your place. You were very talented. We all know it. If you let this got this Ben guy tell you what to do or don’t deserve, you’ll never forgive yourself. Don’t let anybody else tell you what you’re capable of. don’t let yourself be walked over. It’s too easy to get used to.
Myla set her shoulders. She didn’t want to be a doormat. Not today.
December 20, 2021
It's such a great sequel. A sweet good girl, friends with your classic heartthrob playboy all since childhood now one an aspiring bakery and working at a diner and the other a real estate agent only to realize after a summer fun filled day that maybe they felt a spark or did they? Learning about oneself all the while dealing with past dramas in this classic and steamy friends to lovers novel and as a bonus there's a snippet of the next novel coming in 2022 absolutely amazing. Can't wait!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2021
This book was a no for me. I didn't feel any chemistry with the characters. It seems too rushed for my experience. I understand friends to lovers romance tropes already have a backstory, but there was no need to feel rushed about their stories. It should explain how they came about as friends and then transition to their deep feelings for each other. But no, right now, we were expected to know that they both love each other but never admitted to each other. Like what? I just can't.
January 5, 2022
I needed a quick, frothy read for Christmas and this fit the bill. I'm not normally a romance person, so I didn't have high expectations, but I gotta say, it was quite well-written. The sex scenes were sufficiently titillating, the characters were likeable and the story wasn't awful. (Although there was wayyyy too much lip biting from both the male and female leads) Excellent for a cold winter's night - even when I dropped it in the bathtub accidentally.
March 18, 2022
I loved this whole book. I love how to touches on toxic masculinity, both sexes seeking therapy and bettering themselves. I love the mentality of loving yourself before you can love and commit to another.
The ended isn't what I was expecting. I really thought Mila and Jared's relationship would bleed through into book 3, like Sydney's & Sam's bled into this one. I love reading about this sweet little town. ... Now I have to go buy book 3 to find out what happens with Denny! 💕
The ended isn't what I was expecting. I really thought Mila and Jared's relationship would bleed through into book 3, like Sydney's & Sam's bled into this one. I love reading about this sweet little town. ... Now I have to go buy book 3 to find out what happens with Denny! 💕
April 14, 2024
I dunno. I feel like there's so much about this I should love. Cozy atmosphere. Friends to lovers. Baking. Mila's entry into the contest finals () sounds delicious.
But mostly I was just bored. I never really got hooked on the characters or their romance, and even though I appreciate how much Mila and Jared grew and learned from their relationship, it never quite all gelled together for me. Meh.
But mostly I was just bored. I never really got hooked on the characters or their romance, and even though I appreciate how much Mila and Jared grew and learned from their relationship, it never quite all gelled together for me. Meh.
December 8, 2021
This was such a cute, feel good, friends to lovers story. Mila and Jared’s relationship was so relatable and sweet, as a reader could not help but fall in love.
This book was what I needed at this moment. Gave me all the Christmas, wintertime, warm feels. This was a Hallmark movie in book form . ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was what I needed at this moment. Gave me all the Christmas, wintertime, warm feels. This was a Hallmark movie in book form . ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 28, 2023
This book is amazing. I recommend it to anyone that loves thrillers and heart racers. It’s a very amazing layout for a book. I love everything that happens in it all the ups and downs and unexpected in the upcoming‘s. I would read again. I love the ending of this book is very comforting to read. When I saw it in the library, I didn’t know if I like it too much but I loved it.
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August 7, 2024DNF
By 10% I was beyond over being reminded that they were friends. Best friends. Forever friends. Long time friends. Should I or shouldn’t I because you we’re FRIENDS? She’s my friend. He’s my friend. And from the other reviews it seems the right move to bail. Doesn’t seem like it gets any better.
By 10% I was beyond over being reminded that they were friends. Best friends. Forever friends. Long time friends. Should I or shouldn’t I because you we’re FRIENDS? She’s my friend. He’s my friend. And from the other reviews it seems the right move to bail. Doesn’t seem like it gets any better.
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