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Harper Landing #1
Sweet Bliss
Welcome to Harper Landing, a small town filled with people who believe in happy endings.
Left raising his newly orphaned nephew after a tragic accident, Aaron Baxter fears he’s not cut out to be a single dad. But to give baby Jack the life he deserves—and to find a peaceful refuge for himself—Aaron moves to the idyllic Pacific Northwest town of Harper Landing.
Julia Harper, descendant of the town’s founder and successful frozen yogurt shop owner, is mostly resigned to her role as the often-overlooked girl next door. But when the town newcomer, Aaron, reaches out for help with Jack, she finds herself yearning to take part in a sweet love story of her own.
To Aaron, the grace Julia extends is a balm for his aching heart and the guilt he feels over his sister’s death. To Julia, Aaron’s adoration is the key to finally realizing her own worth. With a baby in the middle, can these two hurting souls find completeness in each other?
Left raising his newly orphaned nephew after a tragic accident, Aaron Baxter fears he’s not cut out to be a single dad. But to give baby Jack the life he deserves—and to find a peaceful refuge for himself—Aaron moves to the idyllic Pacific Northwest town of Harper Landing.
Julia Harper, descendant of the town’s founder and successful frozen yogurt shop owner, is mostly resigned to her role as the often-overlooked girl next door. But when the town newcomer, Aaron, reaches out for help with Jack, she finds herself yearning to take part in a sweet love story of her own.
To Aaron, the grace Julia extends is a balm for his aching heart and the guilt he feels over his sister’s death. To Julia, Aaron’s adoration is the key to finally realizing her own worth. With a baby in the middle, can these two hurting souls find completeness in each other?
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2021
796 people are currently reading
8305 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bardsley
20 books923 followersJennifer Bardsley believes in friendship, true love, and the everlasting power of books. A graduate of Stanford University, she lives in Edmonds, Washington with her husband and two children. Jennifer’s “I Brake for Moms” column has appeared in The Everett Herald every week since 2012. She also writes Young Adult Paranormal Romance under the pen name Louise Cypress. When she’s not writing books, or camping with her Girl Scout troop, you can find Jennifer walking from her house to the beach every chance she gets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
December 9, 2021
Sweet Bliss by Jennifer Bardsley
🌟🌟🌟 1/2
A very quick, adorable audiobook with an excellent narrator. I love stories of small towns and the incredible characters living in it. How they deal with their loss, love and everyday trials called life. I only gave the story 3 1/2 stars because I did find it a little to predictable and at times repetitive.
🌟🌟🌟 1/2
A very quick, adorable audiobook with an excellent narrator. I love stories of small towns and the incredible characters living in it. How they deal with their loss, love and everyday trials called life. I only gave the story 3 1/2 stars because I did find it a little to predictable and at times repetitive.
December 18, 2021
I seriously liking Sweet Bliss. And Miss Bardsley's writing is growing on me. She can really deliver a good small town romance. What I like is how she focusing on the character development and how the characters develop attraction. Not just sex.
In fact this book does not have graphic sex on it except just kissing. Miss Bardsley's bringing 2 characters who needed someone to heal each other, together in a sweetest bliss.
Overall a very good book.
4 stars
In fact this book does not have graphic sex on it except just kissing. Miss Bardsley's bringing 2 characters who needed someone to heal each other, together in a sweetest bliss.
Overall a very good book.
4 stars
May 26, 2021
4,5 stars
I would say this is the perfect read for this period and it has some of my favorite tropes. If you like small town romance this is definitely for you! The author delivers a sweet, fast paced and intense story . It was romantic and I loved both characters . I liked how they met and Aaron gave me goosebumps . He is so swoon worthy . Julia and Aaron are they were imperfect but somehow they have found a way and they were so perfect for each other . They developed a great relationship . It’s a really cute story and both characters worked hard to heal through their grief and loss . If you are looking for a quick read , full of emotions, with a great banter between the characters this is the best .
I would say this is the perfect read for this period and it has some of my favorite tropes. If you like small town romance this is definitely for you! The author delivers a sweet, fast paced and intense story . It was romantic and I loved both characters . I liked how they met and Aaron gave me goosebumps . He is so swoon worthy . Julia and Aaron are they were imperfect but somehow they have found a way and they were so perfect for each other . They developed a great relationship . It’s a really cute story and both characters worked hard to heal through their grief and loss . If you are looking for a quick read , full of emotions, with a great banter between the characters this is the best .
April 27, 2021
This was a super cute and quick read for me. I loved the little town and the people in it. I like how the author dealt with loss and tragedy. How Julia took to baby Jack and Aaron took to Toby the dog. I also really liked that both of them had money but didn't flaunt it and were down to earth. It was wonderfully written and really enjoyed it.
December 6, 2021
Sweet Bliss, the first book in the Harper Landing series is a cute, charming small town romance. I really don't know what else to say. I really liked the whole setting of the town of Harper Landing with its lively and interesting characters. Julia Harper and Aaron Baxter are two people who are kind of opposites and are dealing with their own personal baggage but they just click together. Baby Jack, who finds the word 'WOW' absolutely hilarious is just adorable!! Sweet Bliss is the name of the frozen yoghurt shop that Julia owns besides the whole town of Harper Landing and as a title it describes the essence of the book well. This book was bliss.
I received an e-Arc of the book by the publisher Montlake and the author Jennifer Bardsley via NetGalley.
I received an e-Arc of the book by the publisher Montlake and the author Jennifer Bardsley via NetGalley.
August 13, 2021
This was a book I picked up because I liked the cover.
I am glad I did, it was exactly what I needed after my last book.
A lot of people like Julia she is member of the founding family she is not the owner of most of the shops on Main Street but she is overlooked a lot of the time. People tend to walk all over people like her and she doesn’t know how to get a backbone.
Aaron is new to town but also raising his newly orphaned nephew. Becoming a single parent and coping with the loss of his sister and brother in law is a lot.
When these two meet you can see the sparks, they are drawn to each other, it happened at a nice steady rate and I really enjoyed getting to hear them fall in love.
I really enjoyed the narration for this book as well. I don’t think I have heard either one of these narrators before.
I am glad I did, it was exactly what I needed after my last book.
A lot of people like Julia she is member of the founding family she is not the owner of most of the shops on Main Street but she is overlooked a lot of the time. People tend to walk all over people like her and she doesn’t know how to get a backbone.
Aaron is new to town but also raising his newly orphaned nephew. Becoming a single parent and coping with the loss of his sister and brother in law is a lot.
When these two meet you can see the sparks, they are drawn to each other, it happened at a nice steady rate and I really enjoyed getting to hear them fall in love.
I really enjoyed the narration for this book as well. I don’t think I have heard either one of these narrators before.
October 29, 2021
What a sweet story!
What a beautiful love story!
I loved ♥️the romance between the two main characters, Julia and Aaron. And, little Jack was adorable.
Truly a heartwarming read.
I started reading Sweet Bliss and couldn’t put it down.
A nice, light contemporary read that I will definitely recommend to my friends.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
*Bookstagram @shortbookthyme
What a beautiful love story!
I loved ♥️the romance between the two main characters, Julia and Aaron. And, little Jack was adorable.
Truly a heartwarming read.
I started reading Sweet Bliss and couldn’t put it down.
A nice, light contemporary read that I will definitely recommend to my friends.
I look forward to the next book in the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
*Bookstagram @shortbookthyme
August 8, 2021
This book was absolutely amazing! I adored Julia's character. Such charisma and positivity - we need more books about characters like her. Jack was just adorable and Aaron was an excellent leading man, flawed and apologetic, yet hunky and hard working. I can't wait to read book two!
May 10, 2021
4.5 STARS
Aaron moves into Harper Landing with 3 month's old Jack, after a tragic accident that took away Jack's parents. Now Aaron is his guardian and he's trying his best to deal with the situation. One day he meets Julia and somehow she seems to be the cure to his guilt ridden period. But Julia has a past of people not appreciating her and as a result she carries a low self esteem , that everyone is taking advantage of.
This was such a sweet and cute small town romance! I loved the vibes that this gave me as it reminded me of Gilmore Girls, giving me the close- knit community feeling and making me have a constant smile on my face. Of course, there are some people who are the Grinch and the 'villains' of the story and this couldn't be an exception.
I loved their meet cute and how they bonded over small things, but also more important ones. I also liked that even though this could be more romantic in terms of dates etc, it kept the reality of being a single parent/ guardian and sometimes things can't go as planned. If you enjoy the single parent trope, this one is heavy on this element, as the baby is definitely there as a main protagonist. It's not just as an afterthought or in the background as some single parent books. But, I do wish there was more romance, as I missed it at times. Maybe because it gave me a clean YA feel, whilst it's about grown adults. If you like small town romances and the single parent trope, this is a cute one that I definately reccomend!
ARC was kindly provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Aaron moves into Harper Landing with 3 month's old Jack, after a tragic accident that took away Jack's parents. Now Aaron is his guardian and he's trying his best to deal with the situation. One day he meets Julia and somehow she seems to be the cure to his guilt ridden period. But Julia has a past of people not appreciating her and as a result she carries a low self esteem , that everyone is taking advantage of.
This was such a sweet and cute small town romance! I loved the vibes that this gave me as it reminded me of Gilmore Girls, giving me the close- knit community feeling and making me have a constant smile on my face. Of course, there are some people who are the Grinch and the 'villains' of the story and this couldn't be an exception.
I loved their meet cute and how they bonded over small things, but also more important ones. I also liked that even though this could be more romantic in terms of dates etc, it kept the reality of being a single parent/ guardian and sometimes things can't go as planned. If you enjoy the single parent trope, this one is heavy on this element, as the baby is definitely there as a main protagonist. It's not just as an afterthought or in the background as some single parent books. But, I do wish there was more romance, as I missed it at times. Maybe because it gave me a clean YA feel, whilst it's about grown adults. If you like small town romances and the single parent trope, this is a cute one that I definately reccomend!
ARC was kindly provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
January 19, 2021
ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Easy, breezy rom-com with very cute romance between Julia and Aaron.
There was the chemistry and connection from the very beginning. Overall, I really enjoyed their journey. The ending was so sweet.
Easy, breezy rom-com with very cute romance between Julia and Aaron.
There was the chemistry and connection from the very beginning. Overall, I really enjoyed their journey. The ending was so sweet.
October 4, 2021
3.5 Cute, easy read.
July 20, 2021
Sweet Bliss is a charming, wholesome romance with a cast of lively characters, centering life in a fictional small town located in the PNW. It will appeal to readers who enjoy the work of Jan Karon, Maeve Binchy, and Hope Ramsay.
When Aaron moves to quiet, coastal Harper Landing after gaining custody of his orphaned infant nephew, Jack, he certainly isn’t expecting to fall in love. But when Aaron meets Julia one fateful morning at a seaside dog park, an undeniable spark is ignited, and Jennifer Bardsley takes us along for the sweetly romantic ride in this first installment of a planned series.
I was charmed by the romance between Aaron and Julia, and there were lots of funny moments mixed with enough drama and tension to keep things clipping along. Seeing Aaron cope with becoming a new uncle/father was endearing. It’s so nice to see a single dad as a hero in a romance novel—because I think it helps provide a positive, edifying example of modern masculinity. You could almost hear Aaron’s sighs of relief when Julia came to the rescue with her practical, calming energy. Found family is a favorite theme for me as a reader, and the way that Julia bonded with baby Jack and Aaron was so heartwarming.
As someone who used to be a business owner in a downtown Main Street historical district, the challenges Julia faces as a landlord and entrepreneur were very realistic and familiar to me. Reading Sweet Bliss brought back lots of fond memories of what it’s like to be part of a community of small business owners, and Julia was a heroine who read as relatable and vulnerable in a way that will resonate with many readers. It was really gratifying to see her grow in confidence as the plot advanced.
I’m excited for the next book in this series, Good Catch, because I’m totally invested in this small town and its citizens. I can’t wait to meet more of the residents of Harper Landing in the future!
When Aaron moves to quiet, coastal Harper Landing after gaining custody of his orphaned infant nephew, Jack, he certainly isn’t expecting to fall in love. But when Aaron meets Julia one fateful morning at a seaside dog park, an undeniable spark is ignited, and Jennifer Bardsley takes us along for the sweetly romantic ride in this first installment of a planned series.
I was charmed by the romance between Aaron and Julia, and there were lots of funny moments mixed with enough drama and tension to keep things clipping along. Seeing Aaron cope with becoming a new uncle/father was endearing. It’s so nice to see a single dad as a hero in a romance novel—because I think it helps provide a positive, edifying example of modern masculinity. You could almost hear Aaron’s sighs of relief when Julia came to the rescue with her practical, calming energy. Found family is a favorite theme for me as a reader, and the way that Julia bonded with baby Jack and Aaron was so heartwarming.
As someone who used to be a business owner in a downtown Main Street historical district, the challenges Julia faces as a landlord and entrepreneur were very realistic and familiar to me. Reading Sweet Bliss brought back lots of fond memories of what it’s like to be part of a community of small business owners, and Julia was a heroine who read as relatable and vulnerable in a way that will resonate with many readers. It was really gratifying to see her grow in confidence as the plot advanced.
I’m excited for the next book in this series, Good Catch, because I’m totally invested in this small town and its citizens. I can’t wait to meet more of the residents of Harper Landing in the future!
October 2, 2021
What a beautiful story of a love found in a bittersweet situation. I loved seeing Aaron and Julia’s relationship grow and little Jack stole the show for me! If there was ever a book that needed to be turned into a Hallmark movie, it’s this one! I also recommend checking out the sequel as well that is dropping in October!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: none
Readability: Easy to understand
Flow: Fast pacing
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: none
Readability: Easy to understand
Flow: Fast pacing
June 6, 2021
La verdad es una historia tierna: muy veraniega, química al instante pero un poquito lenta para llegar a lo “romántico” y con un meet cute divertido. Sin embargo admito que no le encontré mucha profundidad, hay un personaje con Alzheimer que no sé, esta ahí para causar una “problemática” y ya su condición solo se vuelve a mencionar un poquito y en el epílogo (es decir, pudo no haber pasado y la historia sigue igual). El romance fue lindo pero al final no sentí todo lo que me hubiera gustado. A ver, si quieren un romance muy simple leanlo porque sí tiene eso, todo se resuelve muy facil, no hay problemas fuertes y pues es un nivel de ingles facil.
July 28, 2022
Awe, this was a super sweet love story and I enjoyed the characters and town. Looking forward to the second in this series.
February 16, 2021
This was a really sweet, clean romance. I loved the small town community and the idea of a rich, big city guy raising a baby the best he can with friends and family wanting to help. At times the conversation and descriptions seemed a bit forced and repetitive, but I would definitely recommend this book if you want a cute contemporary romance set in the PNW.
(I read this as an ARC compliments of Netgalley).
(I read this as an ARC compliments of Netgalley).
November 21, 2021
"Neuanfang in Harper Landing" klang nach einer wunderschönen Geschichte mit viel Herz und Kleinstadtidylle und genau dies habe ich habe auch bekommen.
Julias Vorfahren haben Harper Landing gegründet und sie ist mit ihrem Frozen Yoghurt Laden fest in der Kleinstadt integriert, Aaron ist gerade erst mit seinem Neffen nach Harper Landing gezogen, weil er Baby Jack nach dem Tod seiner Eltern ein ruhiges Zuhause bieten möchte. Die beiden lernen sich kennen als Aaron Julias Hund vor dem Ertrinken rettet.
Mir hat die Geschichte von Beginn an gut gefallen und ich mochte die Kombination aus Leichtigkeit und Ernsthaftigkeit. Das Buch ist zu einem eine leichte und romantische Geschichte, aber mit der Thematik rund im den verwaisten Jack bietet die Geschichte auch ein sehr ernste und tiefgründiges Thema.
Auch die Liebesgeschichte nimmt eine schöne Entwicklung durch, in der sich Julia und Aaron langsam kennenlernen und sich auch die Gefühle eher ruhig entwickeln.
Das Setting in der Kleinstadt Harper Landing ist wundervoll gelungen und man muss sich in dem Ort einfach wohlfühlen. Die Autorin beschreibt die Gegend mit vielen Details, so dass man den Ort und das Drumherum vor Augen hat.
Ich freue mich schon auf die Fortsetzung und darauf nach Harper Landing zurückkehren zu können.
Julias Vorfahren haben Harper Landing gegründet und sie ist mit ihrem Frozen Yoghurt Laden fest in der Kleinstadt integriert, Aaron ist gerade erst mit seinem Neffen nach Harper Landing gezogen, weil er Baby Jack nach dem Tod seiner Eltern ein ruhiges Zuhause bieten möchte. Die beiden lernen sich kennen als Aaron Julias Hund vor dem Ertrinken rettet.
Mir hat die Geschichte von Beginn an gut gefallen und ich mochte die Kombination aus Leichtigkeit und Ernsthaftigkeit. Das Buch ist zu einem eine leichte und romantische Geschichte, aber mit der Thematik rund im den verwaisten Jack bietet die Geschichte auch ein sehr ernste und tiefgründiges Thema.
Auch die Liebesgeschichte nimmt eine schöne Entwicklung durch, in der sich Julia und Aaron langsam kennenlernen und sich auch die Gefühle eher ruhig entwickeln.
Das Setting in der Kleinstadt Harper Landing ist wundervoll gelungen und man muss sich in dem Ort einfach wohlfühlen. Die Autorin beschreibt die Gegend mit vielen Details, so dass man den Ort und das Drumherum vor Augen hat.
Ich freue mich schon auf die Fortsetzung und darauf nach Harper Landing zurückkehren zu können.
February 15, 2021
Julia Harper is known well in Harper Landing, owning many properties and being the descendant of the towns original founder. Being the youngest member of the Harper Landing Chamber of Commerce, replacing her mother after her passing, not everyone wants to stand behind a woman still in her twenties. Her mother's old flame, and candy shop owner, Walt seems to be making a point of publicly shaming her whenever he sees her, and talking to the rest of the town behind her back.
But with a new mystery man in town named Aaron, and his adorable, infant sidekick Jack, maybe she can see a fresh start with someone who hasn't known her since elementary school. Aaron is fresh to town after his own losses, and now raising his nephew. Adjusting to his new life without his sister and his best friend is already going to be complicated enough, without throwing a girl in the mix.
Sweet Bliss makes me want to move to Washington, to a sleepy town, and open my own shop. Everything Jennifer Bardsley writes, connects with me in some way. This his my heart in some deep ways... I love Julia, Aaron and Jack. I wish I could meet Paige, and punch Walt. If you want a sweet, wholesome story to warm your heart, welcome to Sweet Bliss.
But with a new mystery man in town named Aaron, and his adorable, infant sidekick Jack, maybe she can see a fresh start with someone who hasn't known her since elementary school. Aaron is fresh to town after his own losses, and now raising his nephew. Adjusting to his new life without his sister and his best friend is already going to be complicated enough, without throwing a girl in the mix.
Sweet Bliss makes me want to move to Washington, to a sleepy town, and open my own shop. Everything Jennifer Bardsley writes, connects with me in some way. This his my heart in some deep ways... I love Julia, Aaron and Jack. I wish I could meet Paige, and punch Walt. If you want a sweet, wholesome story to warm your heart, welcome to Sweet Bliss.
April 13, 2021
This was a super cute book! I loved how much Aaron cared for Jack! I also really enjoyed the fact that he moved to Harper Landing to be closer to Jack’s grandparents.
I loved how the author wrote the town! It made me envious of that sense of community and neighborly love that is so rare nowadays.
I really enjoyed how both characters didn’t flaunt their wealth. They were both humble and caring.
I love how the two characters worked through their grief and loss by using each other to heal. I really loved how cute their meet cute and how Julia cared for Jack and Aaron cared for the dog. The apologue was the cutest!
I loved how the author wrote the town! It made me envious of that sense of community and neighborly love that is so rare nowadays.
I really enjoyed how both characters didn’t flaunt their wealth. They were both humble and caring.
I love how the two characters worked through their grief and loss by using each other to heal. I really loved how cute their meet cute and how Julia cared for Jack and Aaron cared for the dog. The apologue was the cutest!
March 14, 2021
What a charming small town romance! I enjoyed meeting the characters in this story, especially Sweet Bliss Yogurt Shop owner Julia Harper, Aaron Baker and baby Jack. The support Julia received from the other business owners and town folk gave to Julia when she was bullied by a disgruntled shop owner was wonderful. This is my first encounter with author Jennifer Bardsley. It won't be my last!
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
June 26, 2021
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The best word to describe “Sweet Bliss” is in the title itself, which is bliss. I loved the author’s style of writing and found the story to be fresh. It’s not every day you read a touching romance novel involving a man with a toddler falling in love with a woman. I loved this story’s angle and wanted to know how Julia and Aaron’s story would progress with Jack in the picture.
The characters are well-written and people who immediately warm your heart. I loved Julia’s struggles as she deals with people like Walt, who berates her hard work. However, more than Julia, I loved Aaron and Jack. Aaron is charming, has to take care of Jack, and faces his emotional turmoil over Sarah and Jared. Both the characters fight their own battles, and it was nice to see how they connect over the process. The author wrote the romance wonderfully without adding unnecessary explicit details to spice it up. Jack is an adorable cutie-pie and warmed up every scene where he appeared.
The author also touches on other key topics like concussions and Alzheimers. Some of the memorable moments in the story were regarding Frank and Matha’s storyline. I loved Aaron’s bond with both of them, and I loved the scenes where Aaron takes care of Frank when Martha goes to the movies or when they search for him when he goes missing. On a side note, I also loved how the author depicted the idyllic small town of Harper Landing, which made me wish I lived in such a place.
Overall, “Sweet Bliss” is a charming romance that puts a smile on my face. I highly recommend it to people who love the genre and are in the mood for a touching romance
August 1, 2021
If a book could give you a sweet tooth then Sweet Bliss would be it- but in a good way!
This refreshing read revolves around Julia Harper, a long time resident of Harper Landing, the kind of ideal small town that exists in books and movies, but feels next to impossible to come across in real life.
As if Harper Landing didn’t seem adorable enough, Julia also runs the town’s successful frozen yogurt shop. Painted as the girl next door, readers are made to believe Julia is just a regular girl who doesn’t stand out. Then she meets Aaron Baxter, a new “dad” due to unfortunate circumstances. It’s Aaron who sees Julia in a way Julia has never seen herself. Through their newfound friendship each learns more about how the past often defines the present, but that living well is often the sweetest revenge.
In many ways this story fits the typical Hallmark type tropes, but it also delves into some serious family issues. Both Julia and Aaron have their fair share of demons to contend with. This keeps this story from becoming too corny or too predictable. I enjoyed watching their friendship unfold and found Harper’s Landing to be just delightful. I can’t wait to visit the town again soon!
Thanks to @letstalkbookspromo @amazonpublishing and @jenniferbardsleyauthor for having me be part of the tour for this sweet (no pun intended) book that’s out now!
This refreshing read revolves around Julia Harper, a long time resident of Harper Landing, the kind of ideal small town that exists in books and movies, but feels next to impossible to come across in real life.
As if Harper Landing didn’t seem adorable enough, Julia also runs the town’s successful frozen yogurt shop. Painted as the girl next door, readers are made to believe Julia is just a regular girl who doesn’t stand out. Then she meets Aaron Baxter, a new “dad” due to unfortunate circumstances. It’s Aaron who sees Julia in a way Julia has never seen herself. Through their newfound friendship each learns more about how the past often defines the present, but that living well is often the sweetest revenge.
In many ways this story fits the typical Hallmark type tropes, but it also delves into some serious family issues. Both Julia and Aaron have their fair share of demons to contend with. This keeps this story from becoming too corny or too predictable. I enjoyed watching their friendship unfold and found Harper’s Landing to be just delightful. I can’t wait to visit the town again soon!
Thanks to @letstalkbookspromo @amazonpublishing and @jenniferbardsleyauthor for having me be part of the tour for this sweet (no pun intended) book that’s out now!
April 28, 2024
Sweet Bliss by Jennifer Bardsley
Harper Landing #1
vii+243-page Kindle Ebook ends on 240
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Praise, Town Map, Between the Canadian Border and Seattle, Washington; Puget Sound, Labrador Retriever, Jack Russell Terrier, Dog Park, Founder's Heir, Yogurt Shop, Grief, Guilt, Single Parenting, Landlord, Infant, In-Laws, Survivor's Guilt Trope, Dual POVs, Low Self-Worth Trope, Small-Town Drama, Food Allergies, Corny Dialogue, Meddling Parents, Fourth of July, Wow, Toxic Parenting, Community Support
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult language
Songs for the soundtrack: "Roar" by Katy Perry, "I Love Rocky Road" by "Weird Al" Yankovic, "Louie Louie" by Richard Berry, "The Stars and Stripes Forever" by John Philip Sousa
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🏘🌊
My thoughts:🔖Page 87 of 243 Chapter ELEVEN - This is more my speed. I love it already, it's not amazing or anything just a feel-good small-town romance.
🔖100 TWELVE - This has taken a weird turn.
This was okay, the setting was better than the storyline, which bounced a bit. I'm starting book 2 right away because even with the epilogue this story feels incomplete.
Recommend to others: Yes. This doesn't follow the pattern of most small-town romance novels, you'll likely find it refreshing or noncommittal.
Harper Landing
1. Sweet Bliss (2021)
2. Good Catch (2021)
Harper Landing #1
vii+243-page Kindle Ebook ends on 240
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Praise, Town Map, Between the Canadian Border and Seattle, Washington; Puget Sound, Labrador Retriever, Jack Russell Terrier, Dog Park, Founder's Heir, Yogurt Shop, Grief, Guilt, Single Parenting, Landlord, Infant, In-Laws, Survivor's Guilt Trope, Dual POVs, Low Self-Worth Trope, Small-Town Drama, Food Allergies, Corny Dialogue, Meddling Parents, Fourth of July, Wow, Toxic Parenting, Community Support
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult language
Songs for the soundtrack: "Roar" by Katy Perry, "I Love Rocky Road" by "Weird Al" Yankovic, "Louie Louie" by Richard Berry, "The Stars and Stripes Forever" by John Philip Sousa
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🏘🌊
My thoughts:🔖Page 87 of 243 Chapter ELEVEN - This is more my speed. I love it already, it's not amazing or anything just a feel-good small-town romance.
🔖100 TWELVE - This has taken a weird turn.
This was okay, the setting was better than the storyline, which bounced a bit. I'm starting book 2 right away because even with the epilogue this story feels incomplete.
Recommend to others: Yes. This doesn't follow the pattern of most small-town romance novels, you'll likely find it refreshing or noncommittal.
Harper Landing
1. Sweet Bliss (2021)
2. Good Catch (2021)
January 10, 2021
Following a tragic accident, Aaron Baxter is left as guardian to his infant nephew, Jack. Wanting a normal life for Jack, Aaron moves them from the hustle and bustle of Silicon Valley in California to the small town of Harper Landing, Washington. With the help of Jack’s grandparents, he and Aaron settle into the town nicely. Soon after arriving, Aaron meets Julia Harper- the town’s owner. Julia is in the midst of balancing the work load of running her own frozen yogurt shop, Sweet Bliss, handling the mess of properties her late mother left to her, and attempting to train her adorable, but naughty, chocolate lab. Both Aaron and Julia have faced tragedy’s in the past year, but can their blooming connection help them begin to heal?
I was not expecting to love this book as much as I did! Sweet Bliss pulled me out of my reading slump really fast! I completely fell in love with not only Aaron, Jack, and Julia, but also with Harper Landing. This is the perfect light hearted read, with a wonderful balance of tragedy, conflict, and love. I can’t wait for this book to be published soon so I can start recommending it to everyone!
P.S.- this would be a wonderful start to a series!!
I was not expecting to love this book as much as I did! Sweet Bliss pulled me out of my reading slump really fast! I completely fell in love with not only Aaron, Jack, and Julia, but also with Harper Landing. This is the perfect light hearted read, with a wonderful balance of tragedy, conflict, and love. I can’t wait for this book to be published soon so I can start recommending it to everyone!
P.S.- this would be a wonderful start to a series!!
May 3, 2021
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Sweet Bliss is a Small Town, Clean Romance book. I LOVE movies of this style, they are my favorites to watch with my mom, but this is the first time I have read a book of this style, and I was really worried that I may get bored.
Fortunately, it was an unfounded fear, and while the book didn't catch me completely right away, it didn't take long for me to become so fond of Aaron and Julia that I didn't want to stop reading their story. And of course with the exquisite Jack.
Aaron is a 29 year old, co-creator of a very successful Paleo company…
*Cultural moment: The paleo diet is based on the fact that human beings are genetically adapted to eat what our Paleolithic ancestors ate: meat, vegetables, fish, fruits; and it is better to avoid dairy, legumes and cereals.*
His co-creator and best friend named Jared also became his brother-in-law by marrying his sister Sara. But Aaron's life was turned upside down when Sara and Jared perish in a car accident leaving their newborn Jack under his care.
Aaron and Sara were raised by babysitters, and they didn't want that for Jack, so Aaron decided to leave everything behind and move in with Jack near Jared's parents, in the town of Harper Landing.
Julia is a 28-year-old young woman who owns a frozen yogurt shop called Sweet Bliss. In addition, she is the only member of the Harpers, founders of the town, who is still alive after the death of her mother a year ago. As such, she owns several buildings which she rents at a much lower price than they are actually worth.
She is also the owner of a labrador named Toby, who is full of love but never stops making disasters. When Toby decides it's a great idea to swim out to open sea, a stranger rushes to his rescue. The stranger turns out to be Aaron, who has moved into town a few months ago.
From this moment on, fate seems to want to bring Julia and Aaron together, even in the most unexpected situations, but neither of them will complain about it.
It is a beautiful story. Aaron has fully taken over care of Jack and is doing his best, becoming an exemplary father, but still feels inadequate and remains concerned about it.
While Julia is an incredible woman who believes she is totally invisible due to her low self-esteem fueled by her mother's criticism.
It seems impossible to both of them that a person like them could be with someone so wonderful, which brings me to the points of view. We can see the story from the eyes of Julia and Aaron, so we can see how they think the other person is wonderful (and they really are) while, when we return to their point of view, we see how little they feel.
In addition to seeing the birth of this beautiful relationship and how they both help each other grow, we can also meet other villagers such as Martha and Frank, Jack's paternal grandparents, who have a beautiful relationship, but are also having to deal with some problems, in addition to still suffer the loss of their son. There are more little pieces of stories that we get to see, but I don't want to spoil any of it.
Anyway, I really enjoyed this story, and I'm really glad I read it. I just felt that the end came rushed, but because I didn't want the story to end.
PS: Like I said, this book is a clean, small-town ROMANCE. I repeat it because it is different to my usual recommendations. Also, I've seen a lot of bad book reviews lately that actually happen because the person chose a genre that was not of their liking, and this is not the fault of the book or the author.
Sweet Bliss is a Small Town, Clean Romance book. I LOVE movies of this style, they are my favorites to watch with my mom, but this is the first time I have read a book of this style, and I was really worried that I may get bored.
Fortunately, it was an unfounded fear, and while the book didn't catch me completely right away, it didn't take long for me to become so fond of Aaron and Julia that I didn't want to stop reading their story. And of course with the exquisite Jack.
Aaron is a 29 year old, co-creator of a very successful Paleo company…
*Cultural moment: The paleo diet is based on the fact that human beings are genetically adapted to eat what our Paleolithic ancestors ate: meat, vegetables, fish, fruits; and it is better to avoid dairy, legumes and cereals.*
Maybe he’d stop by the Smoothie Hut and gulp down a glass of carrot juice. Aaron normally disapproved of consuming juice since it wasn’t in the fruit’s or vegetable’s pure form, but he was feeling dangerous. Heck, he might even stop by the Parisian Café later and get a croissant. So what if it made him cramp up an hour later? Mr. Polo Shirt wasn’t the only one who could eat gluten.
His co-creator and best friend named Jared also became his brother-in-law by marrying his sister Sara. But Aaron's life was turned upside down when Sara and Jared perish in a car accident leaving their newborn Jack under his care.
Aaron and Sara were raised by babysitters, and they didn't want that for Jack, so Aaron decided to leave everything behind and move in with Jack near Jared's parents, in the town of Harper Landing.
It was Friday night, and Aaron was googling nipples. Not the fun type of nipples, but the type that went on bottles.
Julia is a 28-year-old young woman who owns a frozen yogurt shop called Sweet Bliss. In addition, she is the only member of the Harpers, founders of the town, who is still alive after the death of her mother a year ago. As such, she owns several buildings which she rents at a much lower price than they are actually worth.
Waverley had said that freshly shined shoes expressed to the world that the person had their act together. Julia wasn’t sure if she had her act together or not, but at least with her blazer and shiny boots, she could pretend she did.
She is also the owner of a labrador named Toby, who is full of love but never stops making disasters. When Toby decides it's a great idea to swim out to open sea, a stranger rushes to his rescue. The stranger turns out to be Aaron, who has moved into town a few months ago.
Her chocolate Labrador was a lot of things—loyal, affectionate, devilishly handsome—but clever wasn’t one of them. Over the past six months of their relationship, Julia had cursed his pedigree on more than one occasion. If there were just a smidgen of shelter mutt in him, maybe he’d be smarter. Now, her adorably clueless puppy was swimming into open waters, and all Julia could do was scream at the top of her lungs.
From this moment on, fate seems to want to bring Julia and Aaron together, even in the most unexpected situations, but neither of them will complain about it.
It is a beautiful story. Aaron has fully taken over care of Jack and is doing his best, becoming an exemplary father, but still feels inadequate and remains concerned about it.
How could he explain any of it? Was Jack his nephew or his son? He loved Jack with all his heart, but he wasn’t proud of the fact that Jack was in his care. It was Aaron’s fault Jack had been orphaned. No way could he push up the stroller’s sunshade and show his baby off. Not without feeling more awful than he already felt every day.
While Julia is an incredible woman who believes she is totally invisible due to her low self-esteem fueled by her mother's criticism.
Everyone from her childhood was married or buried. But she was stuck in the same exact place she’d always been, alone.
It seems impossible to both of them that a person like them could be with someone so wonderful, which brings me to the points of view. We can see the story from the eyes of Julia and Aaron, so we can see how they think the other person is wonderful (and they really are) while, when we return to their point of view, we see how little they feel.
“There is no but.” She pointed at Jack. “If it weren’t for you, Jack would be an orphan right now, not the other way around. You’re the hero in his life story , not the villain.”
In addition to seeing the birth of this beautiful relationship and how they both help each other grow, we can also meet other villagers such as Martha and Frank, Jack's paternal grandparents, who have a beautiful relationship, but are also having to deal with some problems, in addition to still suffer the loss of their son. There are more little pieces of stories that we get to see, but I don't want to spoil any of it.
Anyway, I really enjoyed this story, and I'm really glad I read it. I just felt that the end came rushed, but because I didn't want the story to end.
PS: Like I said, this book is a clean, small-town ROMANCE. I repeat it because it is different to my usual recommendations. Also, I've seen a lot of bad book reviews lately that actually happen because the person chose a genre that was not of their liking, and this is not the fault of the book or the author.
November 16, 2021
This was super cute!
I did enjoy the story and the characters but it was a little too instant for me. It's weird, some authors can do instant and I barely notice and I struggle to accept it with others. This was a case of struggling. I think it's because I found some errors in the timelines so I kept trying to figure out how long it was they really knew each other so that was always on my mind.
The story was cute and tugged at the heartstrings and there wasn't loads of conflict which can be annoying so I'll definitely check out some more by this author!
August 5, 2021
This is such a wholesome and sweet book that is pure perfection for summer! I absolutely adored the characters and the small town of Harper Landing was just so full of charm! Perfect when paired with a giant ice cream cone!
March 13, 2022
Just didn't really like the main characters.
August 15, 2022
Appealing read
I enjoyed Sweet Bliss. I liked he characters and the story line. It felt like a mini vacation to a place I would like to visit again.
I enjoyed Sweet Bliss. I liked he characters and the story line. It felt like a mini vacation to a place I would like to visit again.
November 9, 2022
Adorable. Easy read. Can't wait to read more of this small town series. Lots of great characters to focus on for the future books!
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