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North Carolina Highlands #5
Southern Bombshell
The Wedding Planner’s Rulebook:
Keep the bride happy.
Keep the wedding party out of trouble.
Never let anyone know you’ve been in love with the groom for years.
I lived by these rules. Until Nate Kingsley.
The Capulets and Montagues have nothing on the Beauregards and Kingsleys. Our families have feuded for centuries, and Nate was always forbidden—which made fooling around with him that much more delicious. But then I fell for him, and he fell off the face of the earth, ghosting me without so much as a goodbye.
Fast-forward two years: as an expert in romance, I’m a wedding planner to the rich and famous. I never expected Nate to show up at my office, least of all with a shiny new fiancée on his arm. She’s got money to burn, and she wants me to plan the most extravagant wedding of my career.
It’s a make-or-break moment for my business. I convince myself I can do Nate’s wedding and keep my feelings for him in check, even if he does look good.
Really, really good.
But when the secrets we buried years ago come to light, what kept us apart suddenly binds us together. Even if my heart belongs to Nate, and his belongs to me, he belongs to someone else. And that’s a rule we absolutely cannot break.
SOUTHERN BOMBSHELL is a full length, standalone romance coming to KindleUnlimited January 25, 2021!
Amazon Pre-order is NOW LIVE!
Keep the bride happy.
Keep the wedding party out of trouble.
Never let anyone know you’ve been in love with the groom for years.
I lived by these rules. Until Nate Kingsley.
The Capulets and Montagues have nothing on the Beauregards and Kingsleys. Our families have feuded for centuries, and Nate was always forbidden—which made fooling around with him that much more delicious. But then I fell for him, and he fell off the face of the earth, ghosting me without so much as a goodbye.
Fast-forward two years: as an expert in romance, I’m a wedding planner to the rich and famous. I never expected Nate to show up at my office, least of all with a shiny new fiancée on his arm. She’s got money to burn, and she wants me to plan the most extravagant wedding of my career.
It’s a make-or-break moment for my business. I convince myself I can do Nate’s wedding and keep my feelings for him in check, even if he does look good.
Really, really good.
But when the secrets we buried years ago come to light, what kept us apart suddenly binds us together. Even if my heart belongs to Nate, and his belongs to me, he belongs to someone else. And that’s a rule we absolutely cannot break.
SOUTHERN BOMBSHELL is a full length, standalone romance coming to KindleUnlimited January 25, 2021!
Amazon Pre-order is NOW LIVE!
324 pages, ebook
First published January 25, 2022
224 people are currently reading
2643 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Peterson
35 books4,979 followersJessica Peterson writes romance with heat, humor, and heart. Heroes with hot accents are her specialty. When she’s not writing, she can be found bellying up to a bar in the south’s best restaurants with her husband Ben, reading books with her adorable daughters Gracie and Madeline, or snuggling up with her 70-pound lap dog, Martha.
A Carolina girl at heart, she fantasizes about splitting her time between Charleston and Asheville, but currently lives in Charlotte, NC.
A Carolina girl at heart, she fantasizes about splitting her time between Charleston and Asheville, but currently lives in Charlotte, NC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
March 24, 2022
I haven't quite decided everything I want to say about this book, but I have to review it NOW so I can free up a spot in my KU borrows.
This is a very contemporary romance. By which I mean all the women are independent and successful and sex-positive, there are no evil OW, the hero nerds out over fantasy novels/movies, and the main characters smoke pot recreationally (which wouldn't surprise me in an MC romance, but feels like a bit of a new frontier for romance in a WASPy setting).
SPOILER-FILLED plot 1/2 summary:
Clearly, I wasn't feeling the love with this one. Three stars because I can't be bothered to hate it, but I certainly didn't enjoy it.
This is a very contemporary romance. By which I mean all the women are independent and successful and sex-positive, there are no evil OW, the hero nerds out over fantasy novels/movies, and the main characters smoke pot recreationally (which wouldn't surprise me in an MC romance, but feels like a bit of a new frontier for romance in a WASPy setting).
SPOILER-FILLED plot 1/2 summary:
Clearly, I wasn't feeling the love with this one. Three stars because I can't be bothered to hate it, but I certainly didn't enjoy it.
January 26, 2022
I, Milly Beauregard, do not do stupid.
Stupid is holding a torch for a guy who’s forbidden.
Stupid is thinking his grumpiness and tattoos are sexy as hell.
Stupid is continuing to fool around with him, even though I know I’m catching feelings.
I do not do stupid. Except when it comes to Nate Kingsley.
SOUTHERN BOMBSHELL is the fifth and final installment of the NC HIGHLANDS series. It's now LIVE and FREE with KU!
Be sure to join my Facebook reader group, The City Girls, for exclusive excerpts and updates!
Stupid is holding a torch for a guy who’s forbidden.
Stupid is thinking his grumpiness and tattoos are sexy as hell.
Stupid is continuing to fool around with him, even though I know I’m catching feelings.
I do not do stupid. Except when it comes to Nate Kingsley.
SOUTHERN BOMBSHELL is the fifth and final installment of the NC HIGHLANDS series. It's now LIVE and FREE with KU!
Be sure to join my Facebook reader group, The City Girls, for exclusive excerpts and updates!
avoid
March 22, 2022Self note
H dumps h.
H loves h.
H loves fiancé too,
but of course he loves the h more. How trite, if H truly loved the h, he wouldn’t have fallen for another woman. 🙄
The h is a wedding planner and is planning the H and his fiancées wedding.
Drama drama.
Dislike dramas like this.
H dumps h.
H loves h.
H loves fiancé too,
but of course he loves the h more. How trite, if H truly loved the h, he wouldn’t have fallen for another woman. 🙄
The h is a wedding planner and is planning the H and his fiancées wedding.
Drama drama.
Dislike dramas like this.
January 27, 2022
Oh, what a wonderful way to end this series. I love this family and all of their love, antics, banter and faults. This is finally Milly Beauregard's tale, and it was all that I had hoped it could be.
This is a second chance with a bit of new school Romeo and Juliet weaved it. The Beaureguards and the Kingsleys have a family feud that has lasted through the ages. So, when Nate and Milly develop a secret relationship, they know it can go nowhere and they cannot let in out in the open. When Nate ghosts Milly she is heartbroken, but she moves on.
Two years have passed, and he shows up with his fiancé. She is chosen to plan the wedding. Milly is the best and most professional in the business, but this may break this beautiful strong woman.
Nate Kingsley and his family have brought their whiskey company from the ground up. The struggle has been real as he dealt with his ruthless father. He has finally found a way to make his family business soar. Now he is thrust back in front of the woman he loved and walked away from two years ago. This is about to get very complicated.
I loved Milly and all of her sass, intelligence, and goodness. She is sexy, funny, a badass and always gets the job done. The banter and dance that Nate and Milly develop is just wonderful as we watch it unfold. They have amazing chemistry and so much sizzle!
It was such a treat to be placed back into the Beauregard fold and see what was going on with all of them.
~~Michele McMullen ~~
This is a second chance with a bit of new school Romeo and Juliet weaved it. The Beaureguards and the Kingsleys have a family feud that has lasted through the ages. So, when Nate and Milly develop a secret relationship, they know it can go nowhere and they cannot let in out in the open. When Nate ghosts Milly she is heartbroken, but she moves on.
Two years have passed, and he shows up with his fiancé. She is chosen to plan the wedding. Milly is the best and most professional in the business, but this may break this beautiful strong woman.
Nate Kingsley and his family have brought their whiskey company from the ground up. The struggle has been real as he dealt with his ruthless father. He has finally found a way to make his family business soar. Now he is thrust back in front of the woman he loved and walked away from two years ago. This is about to get very complicated.
I loved Milly and all of her sass, intelligence, and goodness. She is sexy, funny, a badass and always gets the job done. The banter and dance that Nate and Milly develop is just wonderful as we watch it unfold. They have amazing chemistry and so much sizzle!
It was such a treat to be placed back into the Beauregard fold and see what was going on with all of them.
~~Michele McMullen ~~
December 13, 2021
Two years ago, I thought the Kingsleys and
the Beuregards could hardly co-exist, much less
come together. But here we are, making plans to
do just that. Let's hope our story ends on a happier
note than Romeo and Juliet.
It's FINALLY Milly and Nate's story! And let me tell you, it's a juicy one!
The angst.
The family history.
The fact that Milly is Nate's WEDDING PLANNER???
Things get really interesting, but what stays true throughout this whole series is that you can see the landscapes that Jessica creates, smell the whiskey that her characters have crafted, taste the decadent food described in every chapter and feel the love and devotion that Milly and Nate have.
You may also get a little teaser into what Jessica has in store for us, and I'm all for it!!
the Beuregards could hardly co-exist, much less
come together. But here we are, making plans to
do just that. Let's hope our story ends on a happier
note than Romeo and Juliet.
It's FINALLY Milly and Nate's story! And let me tell you, it's a juicy one!
The angst.
The family history.
The fact that Milly is Nate's WEDDING PLANNER???
Things get really interesting, but what stays true throughout this whole series is that you can see the landscapes that Jessica creates, smell the whiskey that her characters have crafted, taste the decadent food described in every chapter and feel the love and devotion that Milly and Nate have.
You may also get a little teaser into what Jessica has in store for us, and I'm all for it!!
January 19, 2022
5 Star Review Southern Bombshell (North Carolina Highlands #5) by Jessica Peterson
I didn’t really want to start this book knowing that it is the last book in what has become a much loved series to me. This is Milly Beauregard and Nate Kingsley’s story and what a way to end the series.
The Beauregard and Kingsley families have a history and the bad blood has flowed throughout the generations which really complicates matters for Milly since she has been in love with Nate for years.
Now two years after he ghosted Milly and broker he heart, Nate turns up with his fiancee Reese , who wants her to plan their wedding. Will Milly be able to plan their wedding whilst being in love with the groom? Will Nate explain what happened and why he left? What happens when secrets are revealed? Will it bring Milly and Nate back together or rip them apart?
I was drawn into the angst, the drama, the pain, the second chance at love story that Ms. Peterson wove and in fact I believe she saved the best for last. I was completely invested in Milly and Nate’s forbidden love story.
One click, this complicated love story, it’s a little gem and I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I didn’t really want to start this book knowing that it is the last book in what has become a much loved series to me. This is Milly Beauregard and Nate Kingsley’s story and what a way to end the series.
The Beauregard and Kingsley families have a history and the bad blood has flowed throughout the generations which really complicates matters for Milly since she has been in love with Nate for years.
Now two years after he ghosted Milly and broker he heart, Nate turns up with his fiancee Reese , who wants her to plan their wedding. Will Milly be able to plan their wedding whilst being in love with the groom? Will Nate explain what happened and why he left? What happens when secrets are revealed? Will it bring Milly and Nate back together or rip them apart?
I was drawn into the angst, the drama, the pain, the second chance at love story that Ms. Peterson wove and in fact I believe she saved the best for last. I was completely invested in Milly and Nate’s forbidden love story.
One click, this complicated love story, it’s a little gem and I don’t think you will be disappointed.
January 23, 2022
What a perfect book to conclude this series. We finally get Milly’s love story, plus we see more of her brothers, and the epilogue could be the epilogue for the whole series. Great ending.
After Rhett’s story, this is another second chance romance, but with a touch of Romeo and Juliet–not a spoil, this is a recurring pattern in the story. Milly and Nate have had a thing some two years ago, but Nate broke up their relationship for reasons unknown. Despite, we’ll learn, the fact that they loved each other. That’s what you get when you hide your real feelings. Being from two families that had been enemies for generations, they hid their fling and kept it casual.
And now, Milly is hired as the wedding planner for Nate and his fiancee. That’s how they reconnect, and how they discover that their feelings never died. It was interesting to see how they changed between then and now. In Milly’s case, she just lost herself in her work and avoided relationship commitment alltogether. We see she isn’t happy, that something is missing, and that she’s deeply shaken from seeing Nate again. In Nate’s case, though he claims that he loves Reese, several moments show a lack of connection between them. All in all, neither is happy, and of course seeing each other brings back memories of happier times.
The author very skillfully avoid the cheating trope. Nate being unfaithful would have tarnish his good guy character, so it was a smart choice. He can’t deny his attraction though, and the restraint makes it sexier. We’re clearly in forbidden territory. At least in the first part of the book.
It is no secret, they get back together in the second part of the book. But that doesn’t mean there’s no bump in the road. What pushed Nate to break up with Milly before is still threatening their relationship–that, I’ll keep secret.
As often in this series, the family aspect is the main theme. There couldn’t be families more different than Milly’s and Nate’s. With the final idea that blood doesn’t make a family, you can choose yours. That leads to beautiful moments full of emotions.
Sexy bits, intense emotions, some brotherly love, and great booze. What else would you need?
Quickie
- Series: North Carolina Highlands #5 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #second chance romance #family feud #opposites attract
- Triggers: gambling addiction, some weed consumption
- Main couple: Milly Beauregard & Nate Kingsley
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + the conclusion to the whole series in the epilogue was perfect
- – Nate was still in love with Milly but was ready to marry another woman for love? not sure I get it
After Rhett’s story, this is another second chance romance, but with a touch of Romeo and Juliet–not a spoil, this is a recurring pattern in the story. Milly and Nate have had a thing some two years ago, but Nate broke up their relationship for reasons unknown. Despite, we’ll learn, the fact that they loved each other. That’s what you get when you hide your real feelings. Being from two families that had been enemies for generations, they hid their fling and kept it casual.
And now, Milly is hired as the wedding planner for Nate and his fiancee. That’s how they reconnect, and how they discover that their feelings never died. It was interesting to see how they changed between then and now. In Milly’s case, she just lost herself in her work and avoided relationship commitment alltogether. We see she isn’t happy, that something is missing, and that she’s deeply shaken from seeing Nate again. In Nate’s case, though he claims that he loves Reese, several moments show a lack of connection between them. All in all, neither is happy, and of course seeing each other brings back memories of happier times.
The author very skillfully avoid the cheating trope. Nate being unfaithful would have tarnish his good guy character, so it was a smart choice. He can’t deny his attraction though, and the restraint makes it sexier. We’re clearly in forbidden territory. At least in the first part of the book.
It is no secret, they get back together in the second part of the book. But that doesn’t mean there’s no bump in the road. What pushed Nate to break up with Milly before is still threatening their relationship–that, I’ll keep secret.
As often in this series, the family aspect is the main theme. There couldn’t be families more different than Milly’s and Nate’s. With the final idea that blood doesn’t make a family, you can choose yours. That leads to beautiful moments full of emotions.
Sexy bits, intense emotions, some brotherly love, and great booze. What else would you need?
Quickie
- Series: North Carolina Highlands #5 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #second chance romance #family feud #opposites attract
- Triggers: gambling addiction, some weed consumption
- Main couple: Milly Beauregard & Nate Kingsley
- Hotness: 5/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + the conclusion to the whole series in the epilogue was perfect
- – Nate was still in love with Milly but was ready to marry another woman for love? not sure I get it
March 16, 2022
Southern Bombshell by Jessica Peterson was just the chef's kiss to a fantastic series. I have loved each and every visit to Blue Mountain Farms, and getting to know Milly throughout this entire NC Highland series. I was thrilled for Milly's book, and that she finally got her story to find a once in a lifetime love with Nate! Milly and Nate's love story broke my heart in the beginning, but fate granted them a second chance, and my heart slowly healed right along with them as they put all the broken pieces back together. Plus, once they learned to put their faith and trust in each other, their magnetic, undeniable chemistry was off the charts on fire! The theme of family runs deep throughout this series, and this book was no exception. I really do adore every single Beauregard!
If you love a second chance romance with a loyal protective hunk, a fierce sassy heroine, a devoted family, all the wedding planner vibes, a cute dachshund named Lucy, singing in a Bronco, the finest whiskey around, all the steam, and the sweetest HEA that will simply make your heart happy, then you will love Milly and Nate's romance. I have adored this entire series, and this book was such a perfect, yet a little bittersweet ending to a beautifully written series. Jessica has a way of creating such a memorable setting with unforgettable characters that really just feel like family!
If you love a second chance romance with a loyal protective hunk, a fierce sassy heroine, a devoted family, all the wedding planner vibes, a cute dachshund named Lucy, singing in a Bronco, the finest whiskey around, all the steam, and the sweetest HEA that will simply make your heart happy, then you will love Milly and Nate's romance. I have adored this entire series, and this book was such a perfect, yet a little bittersweet ending to a beautifully written series. Jessica has a way of creating such a memorable setting with unforgettable characters that really just feel like family!
January 13, 2022
This book was everything I wanted it to be and more! Nate was the perfect growly hero, and Milly is an absolute badass! Their second chance romance was one for the ages. They were tugging at my heart and had me swooning all at the same time. Jessica knows how to write steamy and juicy romances and this one is INCREDIBLE! The steam, the heart, the swoons...the food...delicious! The push and pull of Nate and Milly kept me turning the page and I finished this in one sitting...I couldn't put it down! I loved their story, loved seeing all of our favorite family and just loved everything about this book!
I have absolutely fallen in love with the Beauregard family and am sad to be leaving Blue Mountain behind!
I have absolutely fallen in love with the Beauregard family and am sad to be leaving Blue Mountain behind!
January 28, 2022
Southern Bombshell by Jessica Peterson went beyond my every expectation. Book five in the North Carolina Highlander series follows Milly Beauregard as she finds love with the boy next door, Nathaniel Kingsley, in this emotional second chance romance.
If you haven’t read any of the previous books you can start right here as the author does a wonderful job introducing the key players–namely her four older brothers and their significant others and children (Beau and Annabel, Samuel and Emma, Hank and Stevie, Rhett and Amelia), her awesome mom, June, who gets a love interest of her own and a bonus epilogue (I LOVED THAT), Nate’s troubled father, Wilson, and his brother, Silas.
I couldn’t love this family more and it’s all because of the brilliant words of the author. She created a magical place in Asheville, North Carolina, where the Beauregards own and operate a beautiful, upscale resort, Blue Mountain Farm, in North Carolina. The family members often interact as Beau is the CEO, Samuel is the head chef, Emma is the sommelier, Hank is in charge of guest services, Stevie operates her own brewery, and Milly runs an event planning company that caters to the rich and famous. Rhett is a recently retired pro-football player who also lives on the Farm with his family.
When I read this series, as well as when I read her Charleston Heat series, I truly felt transported into a different time and place. The words are so very descriptive, from what they are wearing, to how the air feels or the colors of a sunset “peaches and light blues mingle with electric pinks and purples,” to how things taste and feel. It’s not too much nor too little, it’s just the right amount woven in here and there until you can absolutely visualize the characters, their surroundings, and all of the culinary delights.
Jessica could absolutely have a side gig as a writer for Food and Wine magazine because her knowledge of the subject is extensive and makes my mouth water. I always feel so cultured after reading one of her books and learn so much. I am impressed at her vast knowledge of so many subjects including how whiskey is made which is how Nate’s family earns their living, running a distillery nearby.
The Capulets and Montagues from Romeo and Juliet are referenced a few times in this series and it’s because of the bad blood that existed between the two families for centuries. But the heart wants what the heart wants, and two years ago, Milly and Nate were engaged in a secret love affair which was wonderful, until Nate ended it abruptly, breaking both of their hearts.
I had total empathy for Milly as she had no idea why he ended it, and felt she handled herself with poise and grace. She was a self-starter, motivated to run her own company, creative, and a rock star boss to her employees. She was a wonderful sister, aunt, and daughter, so much fun to be around, real and genuine, and so deserving of love.
Fast forward two years later when he resurfaces at her office, along with Reese, his fiancée, asking her to plan his wedding! You want to hate Nate, but you don’t. He loves his simple life, works hard, puts others needs before his own, and is man of character. The author gives you so many glimpses into his heart and family life and you know there was a good reason for him to leave. I don’t want to give too much away, but know there is absolutely NO CHEATING as these two reconnect on a professional level and Milly respectfully tries to bury her feelings as they come flooding back.
The “no cheating” was very important to me, and I thought the author did a wonderful job explaining how Nate met Reese, and how he was loyal to her and a stand up guy. It was such a change up as most books have conflict in the end...in Southern Bombshell the conflict is at the beginning and as you read on, things coming to surface about Nate and Reese’s relationship which leaves him free to be with our heroine. I loved how the author didn’t make Reese the enemy and I actually liked her for being so honest, and a successful, driven career woman as well.
But back to Romeo and Juliet...what I loved most about Nate and Milly was how joyful they were when together, and how they brought out the best in each other. They had so much in common and were each other’s biggest fans. I loved how they were a team and brainstormed together, how they both contributed to the relationship and made each other a priority. It’s because of their solid friendship and admiration for each other that their sexy times were explosive! Super, super steamy–you could really feel their passion on every page and will need a cold glass of water after reading one of their love sessions. They couldn’t get enough of each other and that’s how it should be.
An underlying element in the story that unfolds is Nate and Silas’ relationship with their dad, Wilson, who has a gambling problem. I loved how the Beauregard’s rallied to support Nate and Milly who had to do something difficult to save Nate’s business. Even Reese and her dad helped which I thought was awesome. Forgiveness is a beautiful thing and since Nate was important to Milly, he was important to her family, and they took him into their fold, good-humored ribbing included.
Thank goodness Southern Bombshell didn’t end like Romeo and Juliet! I smiled the entire last chapter, especially when momma June reflected back two years and recapped where she was, and all her children were relationship wise, and how happy and content they are now. It was a wonderful way to end the series, and I couldn’t have loved it more.
I wish Blue Mountain Farm were a real place we could visit because I would be a repeat guest and try and score a dinner invitation with the family and be besties with the women. Until then I will just live in my books, happily ever after.
If you haven’t read any of the previous books you can start right here as the author does a wonderful job introducing the key players–namely her four older brothers and their significant others and children (Beau and Annabel, Samuel and Emma, Hank and Stevie, Rhett and Amelia), her awesome mom, June, who gets a love interest of her own and a bonus epilogue (I LOVED THAT), Nate’s troubled father, Wilson, and his brother, Silas.
I couldn’t love this family more and it’s all because of the brilliant words of the author. She created a magical place in Asheville, North Carolina, where the Beauregards own and operate a beautiful, upscale resort, Blue Mountain Farm, in North Carolina. The family members often interact as Beau is the CEO, Samuel is the head chef, Emma is the sommelier, Hank is in charge of guest services, Stevie operates her own brewery, and Milly runs an event planning company that caters to the rich and famous. Rhett is a recently retired pro-football player who also lives on the Farm with his family.
When I read this series, as well as when I read her Charleston Heat series, I truly felt transported into a different time and place. The words are so very descriptive, from what they are wearing, to how the air feels or the colors of a sunset “peaches and light blues mingle with electric pinks and purples,” to how things taste and feel. It’s not too much nor too little, it’s just the right amount woven in here and there until you can absolutely visualize the characters, their surroundings, and all of the culinary delights.
Jessica could absolutely have a side gig as a writer for Food and Wine magazine because her knowledge of the subject is extensive and makes my mouth water. I always feel so cultured after reading one of her books and learn so much. I am impressed at her vast knowledge of so many subjects including how whiskey is made which is how Nate’s family earns their living, running a distillery nearby.
The Capulets and Montagues from Romeo and Juliet are referenced a few times in this series and it’s because of the bad blood that existed between the two families for centuries. But the heart wants what the heart wants, and two years ago, Milly and Nate were engaged in a secret love affair which was wonderful, until Nate ended it abruptly, breaking both of their hearts.
I had total empathy for Milly as she had no idea why he ended it, and felt she handled herself with poise and grace. She was a self-starter, motivated to run her own company, creative, and a rock star boss to her employees. She was a wonderful sister, aunt, and daughter, so much fun to be around, real and genuine, and so deserving of love.
Fast forward two years later when he resurfaces at her office, along with Reese, his fiancée, asking her to plan his wedding! You want to hate Nate, but you don’t. He loves his simple life, works hard, puts others needs before his own, and is man of character. The author gives you so many glimpses into his heart and family life and you know there was a good reason for him to leave. I don’t want to give too much away, but know there is absolutely NO CHEATING as these two reconnect on a professional level and Milly respectfully tries to bury her feelings as they come flooding back.
The “no cheating” was very important to me, and I thought the author did a wonderful job explaining how Nate met Reese, and how he was loyal to her and a stand up guy. It was such a change up as most books have conflict in the end...in Southern Bombshell the conflict is at the beginning and as you read on, things coming to surface about Nate and Reese’s relationship which leaves him free to be with our heroine. I loved how the author didn’t make Reese the enemy and I actually liked her for being so honest, and a successful, driven career woman as well.
But back to Romeo and Juliet...what I loved most about Nate and Milly was how joyful they were when together, and how they brought out the best in each other. They had so much in common and were each other’s biggest fans. I loved how they were a team and brainstormed together, how they both contributed to the relationship and made each other a priority. It’s because of their solid friendship and admiration for each other that their sexy times were explosive! Super, super steamy–you could really feel their passion on every page and will need a cold glass of water after reading one of their love sessions. They couldn’t get enough of each other and that’s how it should be.
An underlying element in the story that unfolds is Nate and Silas’ relationship with their dad, Wilson, who has a gambling problem. I loved how the Beauregard’s rallied to support Nate and Milly who had to do something difficult to save Nate’s business. Even Reese and her dad helped which I thought was awesome. Forgiveness is a beautiful thing and since Nate was important to Milly, he was important to her family, and they took him into their fold, good-humored ribbing included.
Thank goodness Southern Bombshell didn’t end like Romeo and Juliet! I smiled the entire last chapter, especially when momma June reflected back two years and recapped where she was, and all her children were relationship wise, and how happy and content they are now. It was a wonderful way to end the series, and I couldn’t have loved it more.
I wish Blue Mountain Farm were a real place we could visit because I would be a repeat guest and try and score a dinner invitation with the family and be besties with the women. Until then I will just live in my books, happily ever after.
April 11, 2022
I'm about to start listening to my very first Jessica Peterson story. She's a new-to-me author so I'm super excited!!
I'll report back ...
I'll report back ...
January 25, 2022
I am utterly convinced that Jessica could write her grocery list and it would still be so damn lovely. I just find myself so mesmerized by her words, the intense feelings of love, safety and home within her characters, and above all else, I love her passion for the food & whiskey. I felt like I was at the table with the Beauregards, and since this is the last book in this amazing series, it was all just so bittersweet. Jessica even took a trope that's not my favorite and made it work so damn well that my eyes were glued to my kindle and before I was ready, I was saying goodbye to this family I've come to adore.
Here we have Milly, the last of the Beauregard clan who has yet to find pure bliss with her other half. Our amazing wedding planner thought she had her chance of love, but it was ripped away from her before realized exactly what she had. Since then shes kept her heart under lock and key, until the man who stole it comes back in her life...with his fiance in tow. And she somehow has to keep it all together to plan their wedding. *cue all the heartbreak*
I so wanted to dislike Nate for how he left Milly (even though we all know he didn't want to) and then having the audacity to have her plan his wedding to another woman (I know that wasn't his doing, but still. The audacity.) But gosh dammit this gooey bear of a man just had my heart along side of Milly's. He's such a family man, and even though he did love Milly with all his heart, he loves his fiance too. It's a different kind of love, and if it helps with his family business and keep the peace with his truly dysfunctional (read: abusive) father, then what's the harm? But as soon as he sees Milly again, all those feelings he buried comes rushing back and he's just so torn between doing what's right for his family, and doing what's right for his heart. And OH MY GOODNESS the feels!!!!
Before I continue I just want to make one thing clear: there is absolutely NO cheating here. Which hallelujah!! AND Jessica did a thing that made me adore her even more-- she didn't cast the other woman as the villain. Reese (the fiance) may not have been Nates soulmate, but she was such a good person and you felt that all throughout the book. She was always in Nates corner, and I truly hope to see her pop up someday in the future. Jess could have easily taken the route to make her catty and evil, but instead gave us another fully fleshed out character you can't help but love!
As for the romance between Nate and Milly it was just *chefs kiss* perfection. All those feelings of regret and longing were so present during every interaction they had, but the pure way they loved one another brought multiple tears to my eyes. Dare I say it, but our author here definitely saved the best Beauregard for last. 😉
So if you are in need of a romance where adults actually act like adults, and where a love is so damn pure and electrifying, this is for you! We even get some snippets of Mama Beauregard and her story arc was absolutley beautiful!! Just another reason for you all to one click!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Here we have Milly, the last of the Beauregard clan who has yet to find pure bliss with her other half. Our amazing wedding planner thought she had her chance of love, but it was ripped away from her before realized exactly what she had. Since then shes kept her heart under lock and key, until the man who stole it comes back in her life...with his fiance in tow. And she somehow has to keep it all together to plan their wedding. *cue all the heartbreak*
I so wanted to dislike Nate for how he left Milly (even though we all know he didn't want to) and then having the audacity to have her plan his wedding to another woman (I know that wasn't his doing, but still. The audacity.) But gosh dammit this gooey bear of a man just had my heart along side of Milly's. He's such a family man, and even though he did love Milly with all his heart, he loves his fiance too. It's a different kind of love, and if it helps with his family business and keep the peace with his truly dysfunctional (read: abusive) father, then what's the harm? But as soon as he sees Milly again, all those feelings he buried comes rushing back and he's just so torn between doing what's right for his family, and doing what's right for his heart. And OH MY GOODNESS the feels!!!!
Before I continue I just want to make one thing clear: there is absolutely NO cheating here. Which hallelujah!! AND Jessica did a thing that made me adore her even more-- she didn't cast the other woman as the villain. Reese (the fiance) may not have been Nates soulmate, but she was such a good person and you felt that all throughout the book. She was always in Nates corner, and I truly hope to see her pop up someday in the future. Jess could have easily taken the route to make her catty and evil, but instead gave us another fully fleshed out character you can't help but love!
As for the romance between Nate and Milly it was just *chefs kiss* perfection. All those feelings of regret and longing were so present during every interaction they had, but the pure way they loved one another brought multiple tears to my eyes. Dare I say it, but our author here definitely saved the best Beauregard for last. 😉
So if you are in need of a romance where adults actually act like adults, and where a love is so damn pure and electrifying, this is for you! We even get some snippets of Mama Beauregard and her story arc was absolutley beautiful!! Just another reason for you all to one click!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
January 25, 2022
Book 5 in the North Carolina Highlands series can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. That said, you will definitely want to go back and read the rest of the series. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
I have been waiting for Milly and Nate’s story, and this book delivers so much more than I expected. This author always blows me away with her character development. The book begins with a prologue set two years ago. The reader gets all the heat and emotions of the relationship that Milly and Nate shared before it ends abruptly. I also felt all the pain and confusion the characters experienced at that ending. Chapter one begins two years later with Nate and Reese, his fiancée, meeting with Milly to plan their extravagant wedding. I loved Milly and Nate’s determination to keep on the right side of the set lines, despite heavy feelings and emotions. I loved Milly’s strength and her commitment to making their wedding wonderful. I honestly wasn’t sure how the author was going to manage to bring Milly and Nate together for a while. Reese is wonderful. She is not the evil fiancée at all ( I was so happy about this!) And Nate felt very real feelings for her.
The Beauregard family is at the center of love and commitment to the family we choose. When the time is right, readers see that the feud between the Beauregards and the Kingsleys might just be at the end. Ending that feud takes some effort, but how it comes about is so, so sweet. The chemistry and friendship and the love that exists between Milly and Nate is real perfection. I love that they have fun together in and out of the bedroom. I love that they can read each other well enough to communicate without words. This books packs heat, love, some romance, and a little pain. There is no cheating. There are some laughs within the family dynamics. And there is definitely a set up for a new series that I am incredibly excited to see come our way. I will also mention that the epilogues are a sweet, sweet way to end the series on the Beauregards. I will miss Blue Mountain farm, but I have a strong feeling we will see more of these characters in future book crossovers. As always, the author does an amazing job making the book something that takes over the senses. The reader feels the emotions, tastes the wonderful food, smells the smoke of the whiskey, sees the gorgeous setting of the mountains, and even hears the crunch of tires on gravel. If you want to be immersed in a story, this author will take you there.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
I have been waiting for Milly and Nate’s story, and this book delivers so much more than I expected. This author always blows me away with her character development. The book begins with a prologue set two years ago. The reader gets all the heat and emotions of the relationship that Milly and Nate shared before it ends abruptly. I also felt all the pain and confusion the characters experienced at that ending. Chapter one begins two years later with Nate and Reese, his fiancée, meeting with Milly to plan their extravagant wedding. I loved Milly and Nate’s determination to keep on the right side of the set lines, despite heavy feelings and emotions. I loved Milly’s strength and her commitment to making their wedding wonderful. I honestly wasn’t sure how the author was going to manage to bring Milly and Nate together for a while. Reese is wonderful. She is not the evil fiancée at all ( I was so happy about this!) And Nate felt very real feelings for her.
The Beauregard family is at the center of love and commitment to the family we choose. When the time is right, readers see that the feud between the Beauregards and the Kingsleys might just be at the end. Ending that feud takes some effort, but how it comes about is so, so sweet. The chemistry and friendship and the love that exists between Milly and Nate is real perfection. I love that they have fun together in and out of the bedroom. I love that they can read each other well enough to communicate without words. This books packs heat, love, some romance, and a little pain. There is no cheating. There are some laughs within the family dynamics. And there is definitely a set up for a new series that I am incredibly excited to see come our way. I will also mention that the epilogues are a sweet, sweet way to end the series on the Beauregards. I will miss Blue Mountain farm, but I have a strong feeling we will see more of these characters in future book crossovers. As always, the author does an amazing job making the book something that takes over the senses. The reader feels the emotions, tastes the wonderful food, smells the smoke of the whiskey, sees the gorgeous setting of the mountains, and even hears the crunch of tires on gravel. If you want to be immersed in a story, this author will take you there.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
January 28, 2022
This one ticked a whole bunch of my fave boxes.
Second chance ✅
Grumpy tattooed hero ✅
Heroine I’d like to be friends with ✅
Chemistry for days ✅
Witty dialogue ✅
Satisfying HEA ✅
Milly and Nate’s story might just be my favourite in the series. Definitely recommend.
I received an arc of this book.
Second chance ✅
Grumpy tattooed hero ✅
Heroine I’d like to be friends with ✅
Chemistry for days ✅
Witty dialogue ✅
Satisfying HEA ✅
Milly and Nate’s story might just be my favourite in the series. Definitely recommend.
I received an arc of this book.
January 16, 2022
Southern Bombshell is the 5th and last Beauregard to find their HEA. This off limits, second chance romance is filled with heartbreak, angst, heat and then all the heartwarming sweet, funny and swoony moments that made me forgive Jessica for pulling at my heartstrings like a puppet-master.
I have been waiting for this story since Beau's story almost 2 years ago- and it was completely worth the wait. Milly Beauregard and Nate Kingsley were never supposed to happen, with their families at odds for generations, their story was akin to Romeo and Juliet (a comparison that is made a few times in the story). Let me just say that this book starts off with some steam- right before things go all sorts of sideways. Decisions were made and hearts were broken, and Milly finds herself the wedding planner to the man she still has feelings for.
To be honest I was a little hesitant on how Jessica was going to present Nate's relationship with his fiance, Reese, that wasn't going to make me dislike him or Milly and sour my view on them eventually reconnecting and finding a HEA. I refuse to give anything away but let me just say Jessica created the world and portrayed the characters and circumstances perfectly that while the optics of it all can seem a little awkward, it works well.
I love Milly- her take charge personality, brunt honesty and the connection the whole Beauregard family has. She has always been there to champion her brothers when it came to finding love and it was so good to finally have them there for her. Nate was a little more of mystery at first. He was kind of gruff and grumpy but his loyal heart and take care personality was evident pretty quickly, and honestly how can you not swoon over a giant grumpy red head who adores and dotes on his weiner dog?! Nate's slow down and relax aura helped calm some of Milly's go,go,go personality. It was obvious from page 1 that these two had something magical- the chemistry was amazing and had me on edge waiting through the rising tension. These two went into their second chance at full steam and I loved how they really learned from past mistakes and supported each other when it mattered most.
I can't get enough of this world that in the Highlands- the family bond, whether blood or not just made my heart happy. I'm not ready to leave... maybe we'll be back someday, I'd love to see Silas get his own story as well or even Reese!
I have been waiting for this story since Beau's story almost 2 years ago- and it was completely worth the wait. Milly Beauregard and Nate Kingsley were never supposed to happen, with their families at odds for generations, their story was akin to Romeo and Juliet (a comparison that is made a few times in the story). Let me just say that this book starts off with some steam- right before things go all sorts of sideways. Decisions were made and hearts were broken, and Milly finds herself the wedding planner to the man she still has feelings for.
To be honest I was a little hesitant on how Jessica was going to present Nate's relationship with his fiance, Reese, that wasn't going to make me dislike him or Milly and sour my view on them eventually reconnecting and finding a HEA. I refuse to give anything away but let me just say Jessica created the world and portrayed the characters and circumstances perfectly that while the optics of it all can seem a little awkward, it works well.
I love Milly- her take charge personality, brunt honesty and the connection the whole Beauregard family has. She has always been there to champion her brothers when it came to finding love and it was so good to finally have them there for her. Nate was a little more of mystery at first. He was kind of gruff and grumpy but his loyal heart and take care personality was evident pretty quickly, and honestly how can you not swoon over a giant grumpy red head who adores and dotes on his weiner dog?! Nate's slow down and relax aura helped calm some of Milly's go,go,go personality. It was obvious from page 1 that these two had something magical- the chemistry was amazing and had me on edge waiting through the rising tension. These two went into their second chance at full steam and I loved how they really learned from past mistakes and supported each other when it mattered most.
I can't get enough of this world that in the Highlands- the family bond, whether blood or not just made my heart happy. I'm not ready to leave... maybe we'll be back someday, I'd love to see Silas get his own story as well or even Reese!
January 19, 2022
Southern Bombshell
(North Carolina Highlands #5)
Written by: Jessica Peterson
Milly is not coming softly into this book (wink, wink, nudge, nudge); in fact she and Nate don’t do anything softly, no, hot, steamy, dirty yes…but not softly.
The Beauregard’s and the Kingsley’s could be compared to the Montague’s and the Capulet’s. No one thought that you could find a Beauregard with a Kingsley and certainly not on the couch, the carpet, the shower, but this had been going on now for almost six months…until the night Nathanial Kingsley told Milly Beauregard he couldn’t do this any more. Who wants to be someone’s secret even though Nate is sure he loves Milly, he doesn’t want his father ruining their lives.
Two years pass by, Milly is the wedding planner for Blue Mountain Farm Resort and she is amazing at what she does. The last wedding she needs to be planning however is Nate’s wedding. Milly being the kind of person she is says, yes I can handle it, until she can’t. Yeah the best laid plans of wedding planners and hurt hearts!
It all seems to go well until the bride-to-be doesn’t make the dance class at “Shag Now”. Nate needs practice, he definitely owns that; but practice with Milly? Dancing, close together, holding hands he’s not sure this will work, until Gloria Estefan’s The Rhythm is Gonna Get You is played! Now we have Nate’s kind of music; Latin music with Latin dance moves! Of course this brings back memories….from now on Milly will only deal with Reese. Sometimes though, the best-laid plans of the Bride, the Groom and the Wedding Planner get shelved and everything changes for two of these people
The shenanigans that occur throughout this story frequently will bring tears and laughter. We also get to see just how much Milly and Nate really mean to each other. There’s still that draw, those steamy combustible feelings but they are also meant to be. Now all they have to do is get rid of the snake in the grass just waiting to bring them down.
Do the Beauregard’s and Kingsley’s overcome that feud thing, does a wedding happen? All I can say is you will laugh, you might dance and you will certainly want to be there for the Kingsley Distilling shareholder meeting! We get the best in this last story of the Beauregard family. Well-done Jessica Peterson well done!
(North Carolina Highlands #5)
Written by: Jessica Peterson
Milly is not coming softly into this book (wink, wink, nudge, nudge); in fact she and Nate don’t do anything softly, no, hot, steamy, dirty yes…but not softly.
The Beauregard’s and the Kingsley’s could be compared to the Montague’s and the Capulet’s. No one thought that you could find a Beauregard with a Kingsley and certainly not on the couch, the carpet, the shower, but this had been going on now for almost six months…until the night Nathanial Kingsley told Milly Beauregard he couldn’t do this any more. Who wants to be someone’s secret even though Nate is sure he loves Milly, he doesn’t want his father ruining their lives.
Two years pass by, Milly is the wedding planner for Blue Mountain Farm Resort and she is amazing at what she does. The last wedding she needs to be planning however is Nate’s wedding. Milly being the kind of person she is says, yes I can handle it, until she can’t. Yeah the best laid plans of wedding planners and hurt hearts!
It all seems to go well until the bride-to-be doesn’t make the dance class at “Shag Now”. Nate needs practice, he definitely owns that; but practice with Milly? Dancing, close together, holding hands he’s not sure this will work, until Gloria Estefan’s The Rhythm is Gonna Get You is played! Now we have Nate’s kind of music; Latin music with Latin dance moves! Of course this brings back memories….from now on Milly will only deal with Reese. Sometimes though, the best-laid plans of the Bride, the Groom and the Wedding Planner get shelved and everything changes for two of these people
The shenanigans that occur throughout this story frequently will bring tears and laughter. We also get to see just how much Milly and Nate really mean to each other. There’s still that draw, those steamy combustible feelings but they are also meant to be. Now all they have to do is get rid of the snake in the grass just waiting to bring them down.
Do the Beauregard’s and Kingsley’s overcome that feud thing, does a wedding happen? All I can say is you will laugh, you might dance and you will certainly want to be there for the Kingsley Distilling shareholder meeting! We get the best in this last story of the Beauregard family. Well-done Jessica Peterson well done!
January 23, 2022
5 When You Get the Second Chance You Weren’t Expecting Stars!!
Ahhhhh Milly and Nate how I loved these two!! This is the fifth book the North Carolina Highlands series and as much as I loved all the books I’ve read, this by far is my favorite. I had an immediate connection to Milly mostly because she does what I’ve always wanted to do so I ate up all her event planning creativity along with the heart that she’s determined to protect at all costs… until the man she loves walks into her office asking her to plan his wedding to another woman!!
I wasn’t sure how I felt about Nate when I first started reading this story but the more I got to know him and what drives him, I completely understood his actions and why he felt he needed to let go the only woman he ever truly loved. Let’s not also forget that their families are “arch enemies” and it’s a doozy of a story too!
Ms. Peterson does a wonderful job of giving us a story that is full of witty banter, especially between all the Beauregards, chemistry that is oozing off the pages, family coming together in unexpected ways and a love that is so grand that it’s inevitable!
Nate and Milly have to go through some tough conversations and before they can get on the road to healing their hearts and I’m here for every single one of them. I loved how they felt about each other. How their love brought out the best in each other; they both had some revelations that had some consequences on their way to their HEA. And how the Beauregard’s came together just made me love this family that much more!
I’m not going to lie, I’m a little bit sad this is the last book in this series. But I got the feeling there were little nuggets of what could be a future book and/or series in this book and I’m hoping I’m right because I love how Ms. Peterson tells a story and I can’t wait to read whatever she has next for us!!
Ahhhhh Milly and Nate how I loved these two!! This is the fifth book the North Carolina Highlands series and as much as I loved all the books I’ve read, this by far is my favorite. I had an immediate connection to Milly mostly because she does what I’ve always wanted to do so I ate up all her event planning creativity along with the heart that she’s determined to protect at all costs… until the man she loves walks into her office asking her to plan his wedding to another woman!!
I wasn’t sure how I felt about Nate when I first started reading this story but the more I got to know him and what drives him, I completely understood his actions and why he felt he needed to let go the only woman he ever truly loved. Let’s not also forget that their families are “arch enemies” and it’s a doozy of a story too!
Ms. Peterson does a wonderful job of giving us a story that is full of witty banter, especially between all the Beauregards, chemistry that is oozing off the pages, family coming together in unexpected ways and a love that is so grand that it’s inevitable!
Nate and Milly have to go through some tough conversations and before they can get on the road to healing their hearts and I’m here for every single one of them. I loved how they felt about each other. How their love brought out the best in each other; they both had some revelations that had some consequences on their way to their HEA. And how the Beauregard’s came together just made me love this family that much more!
I’m not going to lie, I’m a little bit sad this is the last book in this series. But I got the feeling there were little nuggets of what could be a future book and/or series in this book and I’m hoping I’m right because I love how Ms. Peterson tells a story and I can’t wait to read whatever she has next for us!!
March 17, 2022
First off, the book started off with some serious steam and the chemistry between Milly and Nate was off the charts awesome.
That said, you know that based on the overview, this is a second-chance romance where Nate is engaged to someone for a good part of the book. I have to admit, I was apprehensive- I'm not a huge fan of stories where the man or woman is in a relationship - cheating is a hard no for me in my stories. That said, this book was beautifully written with no cheating- it was a seamless progression with all the characters behaving all above board until Nate and Milly could resolve their issues and finally be together again. I adored seeing the rest of the Beaureagard family and more so, I really enjoyed the build up of Milly and Nate's second chance romance. I didn't want to stop reading this book. The steam had me fanning myself, the way they interacted with each other had me smiling and their thoughts about how a real and true relationship should be between partners had me tearing up.
So many times I nodded at what Jessica Peterson wrote about relationships, making this book even more poignant and beautiful. I loved following the love stories of this family and I hope that this author allows us the opportunity to check in with them again!
For my second time with this book, I listened to the audiobook. Oh what an amazing narration by Jason Clarke (his gruff voice was perfect for Nate!! and Virginia Rose continued to impress. I also think that these two have such an amazing ability to play multiple characters flawlessly. You need to listen to this audiobook!
That said, you know that based on the overview, this is a second-chance romance where Nate is engaged to someone for a good part of the book. I have to admit, I was apprehensive- I'm not a huge fan of stories where the man or woman is in a relationship - cheating is a hard no for me in my stories. That said, this book was beautifully written with no cheating- it was a seamless progression with all the characters behaving all above board until Nate and Milly could resolve their issues and finally be together again. I adored seeing the rest of the Beaureagard family and more so, I really enjoyed the build up of Milly and Nate's second chance romance. I didn't want to stop reading this book. The steam had me fanning myself, the way they interacted with each other had me smiling and their thoughts about how a real and true relationship should be between partners had me tearing up.
So many times I nodded at what Jessica Peterson wrote about relationships, making this book even more poignant and beautiful. I loved following the love stories of this family and I hope that this author allows us the opportunity to check in with them again!
For my second time with this book, I listened to the audiobook. Oh what an amazing narration by Jason Clarke (his gruff voice was perfect for Nate!! and Virginia Rose continued to impress. I also think that these two have such an amazing ability to play multiple characters flawlessly. You need to listen to this audiobook!
January 15, 2022
Wonderfully brilliant, bless their food lovin, poetry quotin, boozy little country hearts y'all! This is Milly's story, and if you read her brothers' stories you were waiting for this one, but even if you hadn't you can start here if you want and still be 100% invested (though you WILL want to know her brothers stories so why wouldn't you start there?) either way you are sure going to love Millie and Nate's story. Millie is very type A, compartmentalized, convinced she doesn't have TIME for love, always go, go, go. I guess she never heard the all work and no play theory. Nonetheless she is a wedding planner and agrees to plan the wedding of Nate (her 'one that got away'). Nate is a people pleaser, and the 'responsible for everyone else's happiness so no time for his own' type. He's in a very good partnership, ready to tie the knot with someone who is a great fit on paper, but they lost their spark long ago if they ever had one, and it just takes them both a long time to realize it. There is family drama (though no cheating just in case thats on your no-no list), lots of food, lots of booze, and a LOT of steamy stuff on the way to this well earned HEA. These two are so great together, and you are really going to feel like you are right there on the mountain with them. Always one of my favorite authors because of the emotions she invokes, I can't wait to see where she takes us next! (I do hope we revisit Reese at some point though, I liked her and it took guts to do what she did)
January 18, 2022
“Southern Bombshell” was a delightful, angsty and steamy second chance romance that I could not put down.
Milly and Nate had a sort of forbidden relationship. Their families had been feuding for years so they kept everything under wraps. But when Nate suddenly decides to end it, Milly is left heartbroken. Fast forward two years later, Milly is thriving as a wedding planner. When her newest couple shows up, it’s Nate with his fiance. But the feelings they both squashed down are still there.
This was the ultimate second chance romance. Their family history couldn’t stop what was meant to be. As we get deeper into their story, Nate’s reasoning on why he left is totally understandable. He’s an alpha protector but has a heart of gold. And he’s a burly, ginger with Scottish ancestry so totally my cup of tea. And I loved Milly. Smart, independent and strong. After growing up with her four brothers, she’s got a tough outer shell. I need to point out there is no cheating in the story. Nate comes back into her life with a fiance, but absolutely no cheating happened. The epilogue was perfect and left me happy and a smile on my face.
Milly and Nate had a sort of forbidden relationship. Their families had been feuding for years so they kept everything under wraps. But when Nate suddenly decides to end it, Milly is left heartbroken. Fast forward two years later, Milly is thriving as a wedding planner. When her newest couple shows up, it’s Nate with his fiance. But the feelings they both squashed down are still there.
This was the ultimate second chance romance. Their family history couldn’t stop what was meant to be. As we get deeper into their story, Nate’s reasoning on why he left is totally understandable. He’s an alpha protector but has a heart of gold. And he’s a burly, ginger with Scottish ancestry so totally my cup of tea. And I loved Milly. Smart, independent and strong. After growing up with her four brothers, she’s got a tough outer shell. I need to point out there is no cheating in the story. Nate comes back into her life with a fiance, but absolutely no cheating happened. The epilogue was perfect and left me happy and a smile on my face.
January 23, 2022
Southern Bombshell is the fifth and final book in Jessica Peterson’s North Carolina Highlands series. While this one can be read as a standalone, those who have followed the series will enjoy getting the answers about what happened between characters that have left us curious from the start. In fact, most fans of the series will devour this one for that very reason.
I’ll be honest and say that it took a while for me to get into this one. I was super curious about what happened between the characters and what would come to be, but it took a long time for me to feel the connection between them. Once I did feel it, however, I could not put it down. While this didn’t quite have the intense emotional connection to the relationship from the start when compared to the prior books in the series, I was hooked on the way the details came together. My desire to see everything come together had me turning the pages at a rapid pace, unable to put this one down.
Although not my favourite in the series, this is a great conclusion to the North Carolina Highlands series. If you’ve read and enjoyed the prior books, you’re sure to be hooked on this one.
I’ll be honest and say that it took a while for me to get into this one. I was super curious about what happened between the characters and what would come to be, but it took a long time for me to feel the connection between them. Once I did feel it, however, I could not put it down. While this didn’t quite have the intense emotional connection to the relationship from the start when compared to the prior books in the series, I was hooked on the way the details came together. My desire to see everything come together had me turning the pages at a rapid pace, unable to put this one down.
Although not my favourite in the series, this is a great conclusion to the North Carolina Highlands series. If you’ve read and enjoyed the prior books, you’re sure to be hooked on this one.
October 8, 2022
5 Star Review Southern Bombshell (North Carolina Highlands #5) by Jessica Peterson
I didn’t really want to start this book knowing that it is the last book in what has become a much loved series to me. This is Milly Beauregard and Nate Kingsley’s story and what a way to end the series.
The Beauregard and Kingsley families have a history and the bad blood has flowed throughout the generations which really complicates matters for Milly since she has been in love with Nate for years.
Now two years after he ghosted Milly and broker he heart, Nate turns up with his fiancee Reese , who wants her to plan their wedding. Will Milly be able to plan their wedding whilst being in love with the groom? Will Nate explain what happened and why he left? What happens when secrets are revealed? Will it bring Milly and Nate back together or rip them apart?
I was drawn into the angst, the drama, the pain, the second chance at love story that Ms. Peterson wove and in fact I believe she saved the best for last. I was completely invested in Milly and Nate’s forbidden love story.
One click, this complicated love story, it’s a little gem and I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I didn’t really want to start this book knowing that it is the last book in what has become a much loved series to me. This is Milly Beauregard and Nate Kingsley’s story and what a way to end the series.
The Beauregard and Kingsley families have a history and the bad blood has flowed throughout the generations which really complicates matters for Milly since she has been in love with Nate for years.
Now two years after he ghosted Milly and broker he heart, Nate turns up with his fiancee Reese , who wants her to plan their wedding. Will Milly be able to plan their wedding whilst being in love with the groom? Will Nate explain what happened and why he left? What happens when secrets are revealed? Will it bring Milly and Nate back together or rip them apart?
I was drawn into the angst, the drama, the pain, the second chance at love story that Ms. Peterson wove and in fact I believe she saved the best for last. I was completely invested in Milly and Nate’s forbidden love story.
One click, this complicated love story, it’s a little gem and I don’t think you will be disappointed.
January 28, 2022
I have wanted Milly’s story since the start and wow it was worth the wait! I mean they say “Save the best for last” and its something Peterson took literal! Don’t get me wrong each Beauregard’s journey is just as fantastic in their own right! They have all had their journeys that have touched my heart but Milly really reaches into the soul! This story was an emotional one and I got choked up many times!
Seeing Milly in her element and just how far she’s come since book 1 has been so exciting but sad for me. I am not ready for this to be the end of the Beauregard’s! I have grown so fond of this family!!
Seeing Milly in her element and just how far she’s come since book 1 has been so exciting but sad for me. I am not ready for this to be the end of the Beauregard’s! I have grown so fond of this family!!
January 26, 2022
I can’t believe the Beauregards series has finished. Whilst this book wasn’t what I expected, I did enjoy it.
I could’ve read a whole book on just the Beauregards and their significant others having dinner together because of the way Jessica writes those scenes, full of love and laughter and all the emotions just jump off the page. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, she knows how to write strong female characters better than anyone and I loved Milly. Getting to learn more about her than we did from the all the brothers books was brilliant and I love that she included June more too. I’m sad the series is over but excited to see what’s next for Jessica.
I could’ve read a whole book on just the Beauregards and their significant others having dinner together because of the way Jessica writes those scenes, full of love and laughter and all the emotions just jump off the page. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, she knows how to write strong female characters better than anyone and I loved Milly. Getting to learn more about her than we did from the all the brothers books was brilliant and I love that she included June more too. I’m sad the series is over but excited to see what’s next for Jessica.
January 26, 2022
I have loved every member of the Beauregard family so much but I admit I was super nervous to read Milly’s story. The blurb made me even more nervous but I went in trusting that Jessica Peterson would write a beautiful story that’s entertaining and packed with emotion. That’s exactly what I got.
This book is perfection. I will miss these visits with this family but the end was everything I was hoping it would be and everything I didn’t know I needed.
This book is perfection. I will miss these visits with this family but the end was everything I was hoping it would be and everything I didn’t know I needed.
January 29, 2022
I love this series so much, I can't pick a favorite, but Milly's story was everything I wanted it to be and the perfect ending. I started out hating Nate but ended up falling just as hard as Milly did. She was the light of the whole family, strong, straight-shooting with a soft heart on her sleeve for the man she always loved. Perfection all around!
September 1, 2023
5 FANTASTIC STARS!! All I can say is fantastic!! This book had me flipping pages....Milly was beautiful and perfect. All my emotion buttons were punched. You must read this series and book, this author is amazing.
February 28, 2022
The Beauregards drew me in. This was a sweet book.
November 15, 2024
2.75/5 stars, listened as an audiobook. Might be my least favorite so far in this series, but not bad. Felt kind of weird about some parts but glad they ended up together. Just again a bit too fast paced to be very believable.
January 27, 2022
Source: ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Now that all those pesky older brothers are out of the way, it's Milly's time to shine! She's always just been kind of on the periphery, quietly doing her own thing while her brothers have been getting all the attention. So no one would know that Milly was quietly in love with Nate Kingsley, quietly had a steamy fling with him, and then quietly got her heart broken into a million pieces when Nate broke up with her. Milly quietly nursed her broken heart and threw herself into her work as a wedding planner, putting Nate firmly in the rear view mirror. That is until he walks into her office with his fiancée, ready to hire her as their wedding planner. Awkward doesn't even cut it. Milly, who's meticulously cultivated a poised, organized professional persona over the years is slightly thrown off her game. However, she'll set aside her personal feelings and do the job.
Nate still feels bad about walking out on Milly two years ago. Worse because he never revealed the reason why. He'll always regret how he did it but not why he did it. But they've since moved on and by all accounts, they both seem happy. Sure, having her plan his wedding to Reece will be weird as all get out but they can both be adults about this.
It's apparent that though Reece and Nate love each other, they're missing the sizzling chemistry that Nate and Milly had. And as I worried about the potential of the story moving towards a cheating storyline, Nate and Reece simply drift apart leaving Milly and Nate to pick up from where they left off, like none of the preceding two years ever happened. They still need to address the circumstances of their breakup but they can put that off while they ... reconnect.
Nate and Milly create a lot of heat and intensity which is great when you're expecting that kind of drama in a romance. I liked that they're both a few years older, also wiser as they've had time to grow up. While Milly's been thriving at work with her borthers at the family's resort, Nate's been doing the same albeit without the supportive atmosphere that Milly's privileged to have. Nate's dad is a gambler and a walking nightmare. Everything he touches turns to trash and Nate does what he can to keep him away from the business aspect of their whiskey distillery. He also gets protective of Milly, not wanting her to be in the cross hairs of his ongoing fight with his father. Milly has enough to deal with what with her brothers' overprotectiveness and her own troubles with finding joy in her work again - something we all experience at some point or other - and it takes rekindling things with Nate again and honest conversations with him to reconsider what brings her joy. I liked this second chance love story. It's obvious these two were made for each other and I loved their moments together. Nate's pretty much the whole package and Milly is pretty terrific herself.
I do have to address a couple of details. One of them is during Nate's point of view when he's recalling his family dynamics and he mentions that his mother passed away, and in parentheses it's mentioned from what disease she died of. Honestly, it was jarring and caught me off guard and was incredibly triggering. It took me out of the moment and I was upset to come across it, even more so when that specific detail ended up not having any bearing on the rest of the story. If it had nothing to do with the plotline as a whole then I don't understand why it had to be included. Then this "feud" between the Beauregards and the Kingsleys. The blurb compares it to Romeo and Juliet levels of rivalry but there wasn't enough in there to give said feud any weight or presence in the story. All I could get was Nate's dad's jealousy of the Beauregards' success, and that the feud started decades back, and I wish there'd been something more tangible and recent perhaps to make the feud seem insurmountable, therefore making Nate and Milly's reunion scandalous.
I liked Southern Bombshell even if those couple of details bothered me. There's a lovely epilogue at the end from another family member we haven't heard from before and it's actually a fitting end to the series on the Beauregards, filled with all the happily ever afters for everyone in this big, loud, protective, unconditional loving family.
~ Bel
.
.
.Edit 1/27/21 -- CW for mention of brain cancer (Nate's mom); also mention of CTE (Beauregards' dad who was a NFL player; Beau has also been diagnosed with it and this was first mentioned in Southern Southern Seducer book 1 of the series); gambling problems (Nate's dad, and Nate's brother but his brother has recovered)
Now that all those pesky older brothers are out of the way, it's Milly's time to shine! She's always just been kind of on the periphery, quietly doing her own thing while her brothers have been getting all the attention. So no one would know that Milly was quietly in love with Nate Kingsley, quietly had a steamy fling with him, and then quietly got her heart broken into a million pieces when Nate broke up with her. Milly quietly nursed her broken heart and threw herself into her work as a wedding planner, putting Nate firmly in the rear view mirror. That is until he walks into her office with his fiancée, ready to hire her as their wedding planner. Awkward doesn't even cut it. Milly, who's meticulously cultivated a poised, organized professional persona over the years is slightly thrown off her game. However, she'll set aside her personal feelings and do the job.
Nate still feels bad about walking out on Milly two years ago. Worse because he never revealed the reason why. He'll always regret how he did it but not why he did it. But they've since moved on and by all accounts, they both seem happy. Sure, having her plan his wedding to Reece will be weird as all get out but they can both be adults about this.
It's apparent that though Reece and Nate love each other, they're missing the sizzling chemistry that Nate and Milly had. And as I worried about the potential of the story moving towards a cheating storyline, Nate and Reece simply drift apart leaving Milly and Nate to pick up from where they left off, like none of the preceding two years ever happened. They still need to address the circumstances of their breakup but they can put that off while they ... reconnect.
Nate and Milly create a lot of heat and intensity which is great when you're expecting that kind of drama in a romance. I liked that they're both a few years older, also wiser as they've had time to grow up. While Milly's been thriving at work with her borthers at the family's resort, Nate's been doing the same albeit without the supportive atmosphere that Milly's privileged to have. Nate's dad is a gambler and a walking nightmare. Everything he touches turns to trash and Nate does what he can to keep him away from the business aspect of their whiskey distillery. He also gets protective of Milly, not wanting her to be in the cross hairs of his ongoing fight with his father. Milly has enough to deal with what with her brothers' overprotectiveness and her own troubles with finding joy in her work again - something we all experience at some point or other - and it takes rekindling things with Nate again and honest conversations with him to reconsider what brings her joy. I liked this second chance love story. It's obvious these two were made for each other and I loved their moments together. Nate's pretty much the whole package and Milly is pretty terrific herself.
I do have to address a couple of details. One of them is during Nate's point of view when he's recalling his family dynamics and he mentions that his mother passed away, and in parentheses it's mentioned from what disease she died of. Honestly, it was jarring and caught me off guard and was incredibly triggering. It took me out of the moment and I was upset to come across it, even more so when that specific detail ended up not having any bearing on the rest of the story. If it had nothing to do with the plotline as a whole then I don't understand why it had to be included. Then this "feud" between the Beauregards and the Kingsleys. The blurb compares it to Romeo and Juliet levels of rivalry but there wasn't enough in there to give said feud any weight or presence in the story. All I could get was Nate's dad's jealousy of the Beauregards' success, and that the feud started decades back, and I wish there'd been something more tangible and recent perhaps to make the feud seem insurmountable, therefore making Nate and Milly's reunion scandalous.
I liked Southern Bombshell even if those couple of details bothered me. There's a lovely epilogue at the end from another family member we haven't heard from before and it's actually a fitting end to the series on the Beauregards, filled with all the happily ever afters for everyone in this big, loud, protective, unconditional loving family.
~ Bel
.
.
.Edit 1/27/21 -- CW for mention of brain cancer (Nate's mom); also mention of CTE (Beauregards' dad who was a NFL player; Beau has also been diagnosed with it and this was first mentioned in Southern Southern Seducer book 1 of the series); gambling problems (Nate's dad, and Nate's brother but his brother has recovered)
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