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Sunrise Cove #1
The Family You Make
Beloved New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis begins a new series—Sunrise Cove—set near beautiful Lake Tahoe, with a heartwarming story of found family and love.
During the snowstorm of the century Levi Cutler is stranded on a ski lift with a beautiful stranger named Jane. After strong winds hurl the gondola in front of them into the ground, Levi calls his parents to prepare them for the worst…but can’t bring himself to say goodbye. Instead, wanting to fulfill his mother’s lifelong wish, he impulsively tells her he’s happily settled and Jane is his girlfriend—right before his phone dies.
But Levi and Jane do not.
Now Levi’s family is desperate to meet “The One.” Though Jane agrees to be his pretend girlfriend for just one dinner, she’s nervous. After a traumatic childhood, Jane isn’t sure she knows how to be around a tight-knit family that cherishes one another. She’s terrified, and a little jealous. But an unexpected series of events and a host of new friends soon show Jane that perhaps this is the life she was always meant to have.
As Jane and Levi spend more time together, pretend feelings quickly turn into real ones. Now all Jane has to do is admit to herself she can’t live without the man she’s fallen in love with and the family she has always dreamed of.
During the snowstorm of the century Levi Cutler is stranded on a ski lift with a beautiful stranger named Jane. After strong winds hurl the gondola in front of them into the ground, Levi calls his parents to prepare them for the worst…but can’t bring himself to say goodbye. Instead, wanting to fulfill his mother’s lifelong wish, he impulsively tells her he’s happily settled and Jane is his girlfriend—right before his phone dies.
But Levi and Jane do not.
Now Levi’s family is desperate to meet “The One.” Though Jane agrees to be his pretend girlfriend for just one dinner, she’s nervous. After a traumatic childhood, Jane isn’t sure she knows how to be around a tight-knit family that cherishes one another. She’s terrified, and a little jealous. But an unexpected series of events and a host of new friends soon show Jane that perhaps this is the life she was always meant to have.
As Jane and Levi spend more time together, pretend feelings quickly turn into real ones. Now all Jane has to do is admit to herself she can’t live without the man she’s fallen in love with and the family she has always dreamed of.
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2022
1265 people are currently reading
12803 people want to read
About the author
Jill Shalvis
386 books13.8k followersJill Shalvis is a NYT, USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of small-town romance and romcoms, known for big feels, found family, and plenty of shenanigans.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,363 reviews
September 18, 2021
This is a good story about how the past affects our present and how hard it is to open up to love again. We follow the lives of three main characters, with one couple's initial encounter being a few hours of wondering if they are ever going to see the next morning.
I'm a bit back and forth on my enjoyment level of this. The writing is very good, but I felt that the two main male characters could have been the same person and so could the two female characters, if you only look at how they reacted to life.
Overall, though, the setting is lovely and I enjoyed reading about the close-knit family side of the story.
I'm a bit back and forth on my enjoyment level of this. The writing is very good, but I felt that the two main male characters could have been the same person and so could the two female characters, if you only look at how they reacted to life.
Overall, though, the setting is lovely and I enjoyed reading about the close-knit family side of the story.
June 22, 2022
the setup…
RN Jane Parks and Levi Cutler, a data scientist consultant, find themselves stranded on a gondola in the middle of a snowstorm at the top of a mountain in Tahoe. They were the last two to be evacuated because of the snowstorm but the snow lift is bouncing around perilously. Levi gets injured and while Jane is tending to him, things look grim as the gondola threatens to plummet to the ground far below. So, Levi calls his family but before he can get a word in edgewise, his mother gets excited when she hears Jane’s voice. Long story short, Levi tells her she is his girlfriend, thinking if these are his last words, at least his mother will be happy that he was in a relationship. Did I mention that Levi and Jane only met in the gondola? Oh, and they both survive. Now Levi has to convince Jane to be his fake girlfriend, at least for a while.
the heart of the story…
The fun begins following Jane and Levi’s rescue. She’s fine but he suffered some head trauma and has an extended stay. Sunrise Cove is Levi’s hometown but he’s only recently returned for a temporary visit and his family is all over them. They provide many hilarious moments as they try to surreptitiously get to know Jane before his parents’ upcoming anniversary celebration, which she has to attend and deliver a command performance. Meanwhile, Levi shortly realizes that there’s a lot to like about Jane and he’s shifting from fake to real feelings. Jane comes from a trouble family background and doesn’t do relationships but is struggling to resist him. I loved how Levi got past her barriers and his family inadvertently helped because of their nosiness. It’s not all lightness, though, as Jane has to come to terms with her grandfather and their fractured relationship, overwhelmed by all that entails.
the narration…
I’m used to witty banter and humor in any Shalvis novel and the narrator nailed it! The pacing was perfect and I particularly loved her interpretation of Levi, capturing his wry humor that’s touched with warmth and kindness. It was a wonderful performance.
the bottom line…
It’s been a while since I read the author but it didn’t take long for me to be reminded why she’s one of my favorites and an auto read. Jane and Levi have a lot of depth to balance the humor and airiness of the story. I also loved the secondary storyline involving Charlotte Dixon and Mateo Moreno, both doctors and she with a history that is crippling her ability to be in a committed relationship. Both are connected to Jane and Levi so it all felt intimate. I really enjoyed my time in Sunrise Cove and am eager to continue the series. It’s good to be back in Shalvis land.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to HarperAudio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
RN Jane Parks and Levi Cutler, a data scientist consultant, find themselves stranded on a gondola in the middle of a snowstorm at the top of a mountain in Tahoe. They were the last two to be evacuated because of the snowstorm but the snow lift is bouncing around perilously. Levi gets injured and while Jane is tending to him, things look grim as the gondola threatens to plummet to the ground far below. So, Levi calls his family but before he can get a word in edgewise, his mother gets excited when she hears Jane’s voice. Long story short, Levi tells her she is his girlfriend, thinking if these are his last words, at least his mother will be happy that he was in a relationship. Did I mention that Levi and Jane only met in the gondola? Oh, and they both survive. Now Levi has to convince Jane to be his fake girlfriend, at least for a while.
the heart of the story…
The fun begins following Jane and Levi’s rescue. She’s fine but he suffered some head trauma and has an extended stay. Sunrise Cove is Levi’s hometown but he’s only recently returned for a temporary visit and his family is all over them. They provide many hilarious moments as they try to surreptitiously get to know Jane before his parents’ upcoming anniversary celebration, which she has to attend and deliver a command performance. Meanwhile, Levi shortly realizes that there’s a lot to like about Jane and he’s shifting from fake to real feelings. Jane comes from a trouble family background and doesn’t do relationships but is struggling to resist him. I loved how Levi got past her barriers and his family inadvertently helped because of their nosiness. It’s not all lightness, though, as Jane has to come to terms with her grandfather and their fractured relationship, overwhelmed by all that entails.
the narration…
I’m used to witty banter and humor in any Shalvis novel and the narrator nailed it! The pacing was perfect and I particularly loved her interpretation of Levi, capturing his wry humor that’s touched with warmth and kindness. It was a wonderful performance.
the bottom line…
It’s been a while since I read the author but it didn’t take long for me to be reminded why she’s one of my favorites and an auto read. Jane and Levi have a lot of depth to balance the humor and airiness of the story. I also loved the secondary storyline involving Charlotte Dixon and Mateo Moreno, both doctors and she with a history that is crippling her ability to be in a committed relationship. Both are connected to Jane and Levi so it all felt intimate. I really enjoyed my time in Sunrise Cove and am eager to continue the series. It’s good to be back in Shalvis land.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to HarperAudio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
January 17, 2022
Thank you to Headline Press for sending me an e-arc of this book. Honestly, I hadn't even heard of The Family You Make, it wasn't even on my radar. In fact, I hadn't even heard of Jill Shalvis. However, that has now changed. Something I didn't see coming, this being my first five star read of the year.
Outstanding! I loved everything about this book. The writing is fantastic, I've gone ahead and bought 3 more of Jill's books, and I'd love to read more of her backlist. The characters, ALL OF THEM, are everything! Their development, especially Jane and Charlotte's but even Levi and his family's as well, we're phenomenal. And I really loved the different sets and types of relationships we were following in this book. I love that it wasn't just a love story between Levi and Jane. There was a secondary love story, there were family relationships, friendships. So much was happening, I laughed out loud, I sobbed, I was overwhelmed, my heart was warmed, I was shocked and horrified, I just adored every second of this book. And I cannot wait for the next one.
Outstanding! I loved everything about this book. The writing is fantastic, I've gone ahead and bought 3 more of Jill's books, and I'd love to read more of her backlist. The characters, ALL OF THEM, are everything! Their development, especially Jane and Charlotte's but even Levi and his family's as well, we're phenomenal. And I really loved the different sets and types of relationships we were following in this book. I love that it wasn't just a love story between Levi and Jane. There was a secondary love story, there were family relationships, friendships. So much was happening, I laughed out loud, I sobbed, I was overwhelmed, my heart was warmed, I was shocked and horrified, I just adored every second of this book. And I cannot wait for the next one.
January 20, 2022
The Family You Make by Jill Shalvis is the first book in the new contemporary romance The Sunrise Cove series. As with a lot of contemporary romance series the location is the theme of the series and each book will feature new main characters. Since the characters will be changing each book of this series can be read as a standalone if choosing to do so.
Levi Cutler was in Sunrise Cove visiting his family when he decided to head up to the mountain but as he was in a gondola going up alone when a winter storm took a turn for the worse. When the gondola reached the top Levi is of course told he needs to head back down the mountain but the trip down he will not be alone as Jane is also evacuating the mountaintop and joins Levi in the last gondola down.
Jane is overly nervous as the storm rages around them and Levi does his best to try to calm her. However, the gondola stops and both Levi and Jane see the car in front of them fall scary them both. Levi decides to call home, possibly as a last goodbye, and to make his mother happy who only wants her son to find a wife he lies that Jane is his girlfriend. Well Jane and Levi survive which puts Levi in a place of either confessing to his mother or talking Jane into pretending to be his girlfriend.
The Family You Make by Jill Shalvis began like a blockbuster action movie and pulled me in right away with the tension of the storm and the precarious nature of the gondola ride. I found that I couldn’t help but fall in love with the characters getting to know them as they fought to survive a horrible situation. It probably did help that the fake dating trope is often one of my favorites too but it made it all that much more exciting with the fast and furious beginning to the book. I will definitely look forward to seeing what will come in book two of this series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Levi Cutler was in Sunrise Cove visiting his family when he decided to head up to the mountain but as he was in a gondola going up alone when a winter storm took a turn for the worse. When the gondola reached the top Levi is of course told he needs to head back down the mountain but the trip down he will not be alone as Jane is also evacuating the mountaintop and joins Levi in the last gondola down.
Jane is overly nervous as the storm rages around them and Levi does his best to try to calm her. However, the gondola stops and both Levi and Jane see the car in front of them fall scary them both. Levi decides to call home, possibly as a last goodbye, and to make his mother happy who only wants her son to find a wife he lies that Jane is his girlfriend. Well Jane and Levi survive which puts Levi in a place of either confessing to his mother or talking Jane into pretending to be his girlfriend.
The Family You Make by Jill Shalvis began like a blockbuster action movie and pulled me in right away with the tension of the storm and the precarious nature of the gondola ride. I found that I couldn’t help but fall in love with the characters getting to know them as they fought to survive a horrible situation. It probably did help that the fake dating trope is often one of my favorites too but it made it all that much more exciting with the fast and furious beginning to the book. I will definitely look forward to seeing what will come in book two of this series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
January 28, 2022
Jill Shalvis writes books that always touch my heart. I laugh, cry, and never want them to end. This is a rich, funny, warm story about people you would like to have as friends.
March 31, 2022
Just Right.
I’ve always believed that family is what you make of it, thus the new series by Jill Shalvis, The Family You Make, struck a chord with me.
Jane is a woman who has never stayed in one place A nomad who has moved around, she grew up in Sunrise Cove and will always love it. Levi is from Sunrise Cove. Though he has never felt as though he belonged, he calls it home.
These two form a bond when Levi’s life is put in danger and Jane, a traveling nurse, comes to his rescue. Thereafter, the two pretend to date, for the sake of Levi’s family and of course, can’t find those loving feelings.
Jane has been alone forever. She doesn’t know how to be anything else. Yet somehow she can’t ignore Levi, try as hard as she might.
Charlotte is a physician who is Jane’s closest friend. These two lean on each other through thick and thin. Charlotte has been through hell and back and has never really let anyone in, until now. Mateo is an ER doc who lives next door to Charlotte. Mateo has been in love with Charlotte forever. A man who goes out of his way for the woman he loves, he will do whatever it takes to break down those walls.
This is a story that centers mainly around Jane and Levi, though admittedly, I enjoyed the story of Charlotte and Mateo much more. If I had to put my finger on why I’d have to say that I felt as though Jane and Levi’s relationship felt forced whereas Charlotte and Mateo’s was quite easy and natural. That said, all in all, I enjoyed The Family You Make and so agreed with the sentiment shared at the end of the book. I started reading Jill Shalvis’ novels in the middle of last year and quite enjoy them and am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you to William Morrow and Custom House for the arc via NetGalley
Published on Goodreads and Twitter and to blog: books-are-a-girls-best-friend.com
I’ve always believed that family is what you make of it, thus the new series by Jill Shalvis, The Family You Make, struck a chord with me.
Jane is a woman who has never stayed in one place A nomad who has moved around, she grew up in Sunrise Cove and will always love it. Levi is from Sunrise Cove. Though he has never felt as though he belonged, he calls it home.
These two form a bond when Levi’s life is put in danger and Jane, a traveling nurse, comes to his rescue. Thereafter, the two pretend to date, for the sake of Levi’s family and of course, can’t find those loving feelings.
Jane has been alone forever. She doesn’t know how to be anything else. Yet somehow she can’t ignore Levi, try as hard as she might.
Charlotte is a physician who is Jane’s closest friend. These two lean on each other through thick and thin. Charlotte has been through hell and back and has never really let anyone in, until now. Mateo is an ER doc who lives next door to Charlotte. Mateo has been in love with Charlotte forever. A man who goes out of his way for the woman he loves, he will do whatever it takes to break down those walls.
This is a story that centers mainly around Jane and Levi, though admittedly, I enjoyed the story of Charlotte and Mateo much more. If I had to put my finger on why I’d have to say that I felt as though Jane and Levi’s relationship felt forced whereas Charlotte and Mateo’s was quite easy and natural. That said, all in all, I enjoyed The Family You Make and so agreed with the sentiment shared at the end of the book. I started reading Jill Shalvis’ novels in the middle of last year and quite enjoy them and am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you to William Morrow and Custom House for the arc via NetGalley
Published on Goodreads and Twitter and to blog: books-are-a-girls-best-friend.com
May 2, 2024
The Family You Make by Jill Shalvis
Sunrise Cove series #1. Contemporary romance. Fake relationship troupe.
Levi Cutler is stranded on a ski lift when the car in front plunges off the cliff. Fortunately, no one was on the one that fell, but feeling a little vulnerable, he calls home to say goodbye. Not being able to actually tell his family his predicament, he impulsively names the woman on the stuck lift with him, his girlfriend, making his family happy. Eventually Jane agrees to be his pretend girlfriend, though she’s not used to the intimate family interactions. Levi’s family is welcoming and happy to that Levi is settled. Maybe more than he even realizes.
We all know how those fake relationships work! Don’t expect them to go their separate ways. An adorable romance as Jane finds and appreciates the family she doesn’t have but would really like to keep. A secondary romance between Charlotte and Mateo makes this book doubly sweet while all the family surrounded everyone with support and love.
It’s a feel good, small town, bundle of love.
I’ve got dozens of books by this author on my shelves. I guess saved for a rainy day? Time for me to dig into the back log because this book reminded me how much I love the romances written by this author.
Sunrise Cove series #1. Contemporary romance. Fake relationship troupe.
Levi Cutler is stranded on a ski lift when the car in front plunges off the cliff. Fortunately, no one was on the one that fell, but feeling a little vulnerable, he calls home to say goodbye. Not being able to actually tell his family his predicament, he impulsively names the woman on the stuck lift with him, his girlfriend, making his family happy. Eventually Jane agrees to be his pretend girlfriend, though she’s not used to the intimate family interactions. Levi’s family is welcoming and happy to that Levi is settled. Maybe more than he even realizes.
We all know how those fake relationships work! Don’t expect them to go their separate ways. An adorable romance as Jane finds and appreciates the family she doesn’t have but would really like to keep. A secondary romance between Charlotte and Mateo makes this book doubly sweet while all the family surrounded everyone with support and love.
It’s a feel good, small town, bundle of love.
I’ve got dozens of books by this author on my shelves. I guess saved for a rainy day? Time for me to dig into the back log because this book reminded me how much I love the romances written by this author.
January 11, 2022
5 - "Family is earned, not inherited..." Stars!
My 2022 reading started off spectacularly with Jill Shalvis doing what she does best and that’s delivering the perfect read. The start of the new Sunrise Cove series offered up everything I want in my contemporary romance. Likeable but flawed characters, a funny dog, family shenanigans, a cute kid and a snooty cat.
"I’m qualified to save people’s lives-even if I can’t manage to get my own together…"
You get two love stories for the price of one with The Family You Make with both Jane and Charlotte going about their lives in happy solitude, whilst trying to stave of the attentions of two charming, disarming, don’t-mind-if-I-do guys.
The more he got to know her, the more real he wanted this to be…
Levi and Mateo offer up the usual Shalvis hero charm, self-deprecating wit and dry humour that are her trademarks, whilst trying to build relationships with women who due to their pasts are reluctant to commit to anyone, or anything.
"When I’m with you, I feel like… me."
I loved it from the first paragraph right to the end. The secondary characters kept things entertaining, as well as giving an indication as to who may well get their own stories told in the future, and I cannot wait for more.
"You keep surprising me…"
ARC generously provided by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
My 2022 reading started off spectacularly with Jill Shalvis doing what she does best and that’s delivering the perfect read. The start of the new Sunrise Cove series offered up everything I want in my contemporary romance. Likeable but flawed characters, a funny dog, family shenanigans, a cute kid and a snooty cat.
"I’m qualified to save people’s lives-even if I can’t manage to get my own together…"
You get two love stories for the price of one with The Family You Make with both Jane and Charlotte going about their lives in happy solitude, whilst trying to stave of the attentions of two charming, disarming, don’t-mind-if-I-do guys.
The more he got to know her, the more real he wanted this to be…
Levi and Mateo offer up the usual Shalvis hero charm, self-deprecating wit and dry humour that are her trademarks, whilst trying to build relationships with women who due to their pasts are reluctant to commit to anyone, or anything.
"When I’m with you, I feel like… me."
I loved it from the first paragraph right to the end. The secondary characters kept things entertaining, as well as giving an indication as to who may well get their own stories told in the future, and I cannot wait for more.
"You keep surprising me…"
ARC generously provided by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
February 14, 2022
I may be bias here being that I am a huge Jill Shalvis fan-but I loved this.
Anyway-
The Family You Make is quintessential Jill Shalvis. I don’t know how to explain it but if you ripped the cover off, within a few chapters, Jill Shalvis readers would know it was one of her books. The humor, the charm, the friendships, the incredible dialogue, the right amount of steam-it all makes for a very heartwarming read that’s right amount of small town community feels with the right dash of romcom. She straddles the line of women’s fic & romcom unlike anyone else and I’m glad she’s created the lane for herself and continues to navigate it with flawless ease.
The meet cute was absolutely brilliant and pulls you in as it’s supposed to do. It starts with a lie..for a sweet reason.
Jill Shalvis writes blue prints for found family stories. Our heroine in this book is a traveling nurse (love the homage to healthcare workers!) and because of her past she prefers being on the go but in the town where she and the hero meet she does have a grandfather whom she watches from afar, and an incredible southern Belle best friend named Charlotte. I don’t want to give too much more away and get into spoiler territory but…read it! Jill has created this lane of romcom/women’s fic and she navigates it flawlessly.
Anyway-
The Family You Make is quintessential Jill Shalvis. I don’t know how to explain it but if you ripped the cover off, within a few chapters, Jill Shalvis readers would know it was one of her books. The humor, the charm, the friendships, the incredible dialogue, the right amount of steam-it all makes for a very heartwarming read that’s right amount of small town community feels with the right dash of romcom. She straddles the line of women’s fic & romcom unlike anyone else and I’m glad she’s created the lane for herself and continues to navigate it with flawless ease.
The meet cute was absolutely brilliant and pulls you in as it’s supposed to do. It starts with a lie..for a sweet reason.
Jill Shalvis writes blue prints for found family stories. Our heroine in this book is a traveling nurse (love the homage to healthcare workers!) and because of her past she prefers being on the go but in the town where she and the hero meet she does have a grandfather whom she watches from afar, and an incredible southern Belle best friend named Charlotte. I don’t want to give too much more away and get into spoiler territory but…read it! Jill has created this lane of romcom/women’s fic and she navigates it flawlessly.
January 10, 2022
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I had such a good time with this book. It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Jill Shalvis’s writing so I was eager to dive into this first book in a new series. I went into the book with fairly high expectations and this story lived up to every one of them. I got the heartwarming romance that I had hoped for along with a wonderful cast of characters that came alive on the page.
This book opens with a pretty intense scene. Jane and Levi are on a gondola during a storm when things go wrong and the one in front of theirs falls to the ground. Things don’t look good for the pair and Levi places a call to his mother hoping to talk to her one last time but instead ends up telling her that Jane is his girlfriend just to make her happy. What a great way to start a story! These two bonded right away because of the situation that they survived and I felt like they seemed perfect for each other from the start.
I fell in love with Jane and Levi right away. They both had some issues to deal with and I enjoyed watching each of them work through everything. They had fantastic chemistry together and the only real obstacle to a relationship was their own fear. Add a little fake dating into the mix and I knew that I would get the happily ever after that I craved. The secondary characters were equally wonderful. Jane’s friend Charlotte has been her rock but she had her own issues to deal with. Levi’s family was just a lot of fun. They were not perfect but you could tell that they cared for each other and only wanted the best for Levi. I really appreciated the fact that we were treated to a secondary romance and I loved being able to see both couples find happiness together.
I would highly recommend this book to others. I found this to be a wonderfully written story featuring characters that were easy to fall for. I cannot wait to read more of this amazing author’s work.
I received a digital review copy of this book from William Morrow Paperbacks.
I had such a good time with this book. It is no secret that I am a huge fan of Jill Shalvis’s writing so I was eager to dive into this first book in a new series. I went into the book with fairly high expectations and this story lived up to every one of them. I got the heartwarming romance that I had hoped for along with a wonderful cast of characters that came alive on the page.
This book opens with a pretty intense scene. Jane and Levi are on a gondola during a storm when things go wrong and the one in front of theirs falls to the ground. Things don’t look good for the pair and Levi places a call to his mother hoping to talk to her one last time but instead ends up telling her that Jane is his girlfriend just to make her happy. What a great way to start a story! These two bonded right away because of the situation that they survived and I felt like they seemed perfect for each other from the start.
I fell in love with Jane and Levi right away. They both had some issues to deal with and I enjoyed watching each of them work through everything. They had fantastic chemistry together and the only real obstacle to a relationship was their own fear. Add a little fake dating into the mix and I knew that I would get the happily ever after that I craved. The secondary characters were equally wonderful. Jane’s friend Charlotte has been her rock but she had her own issues to deal with. Levi’s family was just a lot of fun. They were not perfect but you could tell that they cared for each other and only wanted the best for Levi. I really appreciated the fact that we were treated to a secondary romance and I loved being able to see both couples find happiness together.
I would highly recommend this book to others. I found this to be a wonderfully written story featuring characters that were easy to fall for. I cannot wait to read more of this amazing author’s work.
I received a digital review copy of this book from William Morrow Paperbacks.
March 31, 2022
This was ... okay. I didn't really like it.
The opening chapter was fantastic. I know Shalvis lives in the Tahoe area, and I got the feeling she'd actually been trapped on a gondola during a snowstorm (although I hope not!!), because this scene felt real.
After that, it sagged a bit. There are the obligatory constant coy reminders of each character's past, hinting at a painful history but not letting the reader know the details (I hate that - just tell me what happened). Interestingly, there are multiple romances happening in this story. Jane and Levi (who were stuck in the gondola) are the main protagonists, but we also have Jane's housemate, Charlotte, and their neighbor (and Levi's childhood best friend), Mateo, and Levi's sister Tess and a yet-to-be-determined man (that didn't pan out, I guess that one is for a later book). Characters added for color also include Levi's prying, boundary-stomping parents (I REALLY hated his parents), and his perky, precocious niece. Peyton didn't feel real and I didn't feel like she added much to the story, other than annoyingly prying Levi's eyelids open in the morning and interjecting statements like "I have to poop!" at the dinner table.
Even though there are two romances happening, it was all very repeatey rather than interesting. Both heroines have commitment issues, so it was a constant litany of "I can't / I don't want to / I must remain an island / I can't depend on others / I am not lovable / avoid avoid avoid avoid" - that got old fast.
And, okay, this is just a quirk of mine I suppose, but my list-loving heart gets sooooo disappointed when characters whip out a "getting to know you" list of questions, and then ... set it aside and ignore it. Nooooo! There's a list! A list right there next to you! Go through the list!!! (I also get upset when a delicious meal is served but no one eats it. This happens more often in movies than in books.)
My main problem is that I didn't really like any of the characters. A successful romance novel requires that the reader connect with and like the characters, and that just wasn't happening for me. They were, by turns, needy, pushy, boundary stomping, and controlling. The dialogue was clunky, the constant double entendres were cringe. And then at the end
I didn't completely buy the relationship between Jane & Levi. Charlotte & Mateo might be ready, Levi might be ready, but Jane has far too many issues to maintain a successful relationship - she needs YEARS of therapy. YEARS.
Charlotte was ridiculous, too. I get not wanting to accept help from others, I'm the same. But when your neighbor plows your shared driveway clear of snow, I don't understand why you'd be so angry that you would put the snow back. I know that was meant to be funny and charming, but it's just ludicrous. I don't want to know anyone who is that nonsensical. And if Charlotte is a surgeon, and Mateo is an ER doctor at the same hospital, why can he easily afford his house (with furnishings) but she is struggling to pay the bills, even with rental income? She's a SURGEON.
I haven't lived in California in a long time (and never in Tahoe) so maybe I don't understand what their winter weather is like, but there were regular mentions of people sitting outside on porches or steps or benches, even walking outside barefoot ... in the snow. Who does that? Here in NY, when the deck is covered in snow, it's covered in snow, there are no available seats and no one in their right mind will sit out there (exception: ice fishing). I don't even want to describe the pain of stepping in snow barefoot (yes, I have done it - sometimes it can't be avoided). The winter I spent in CA wasn't very cold, so I get that it's warmer there, but ... if there's snow, it's ... cold? Who wants to sit on a snow-covered bench?
I picked this up to fill "a book about a found family" for the Popsugar 2022 Reading Challenge. A book titled "The Family You Make" ought to be perfect, right? In retrospect, not so much, and if I had not intentionally borrowed this book for that category, I probably wouldn't use it, because the hero has a thriving (and annoying) biological family around him, his parents, his sister, and his niece, and the heroine is busy stalking her biological grandfather. The heroine does live with a woman and in a way they are a found family, and there are lots of issues of wanting a family and allowing friends to be like family, so if I look only at that part of the plot, this book works.
Certain words seem to BALLOON off the page when they are repeated even just a few times.
word count:
squirm - 10 - it's like everyone squirms in this book! Do they all have to pee???
crack (as in, "it's so good it's like crack") - 4 (which, imo, is four too many times)
I was also annoyed by the number of times these characters forget to eat or don't eat or don't pack food to eat or don't pack enough food to eat or eat a quick snack or don't find time to eat or were so hungry but still didn't eat. It comes up A LOT.
Also, feral cats have worms (and fleas, and ticks, but maybe not so much in winter?). I would NOT want a stray cat to curl up on my pillow in my bed, not until it's been treated for parasites. I'm itchy just thinking about it.
The opening chapter was fantastic. I know Shalvis lives in the Tahoe area, and I got the feeling she'd actually been trapped on a gondola during a snowstorm (although I hope not!!), because this scene felt real.
After that, it sagged a bit. There are the obligatory constant coy reminders of each character's past, hinting at a painful history but not letting the reader know the details (I hate that - just tell me what happened). Interestingly, there are multiple romances happening in this story. Jane and Levi (who were stuck in the gondola) are the main protagonists, but we also have Jane's housemate, Charlotte, and their neighbor (and Levi's childhood best friend), Mateo, and Levi's sister Tess and a yet-to-be-determined man (that didn't pan out, I guess that one is for a later book). Characters added for color also include Levi's prying, boundary-stomping parents (I REALLY hated his parents), and his perky, precocious niece. Peyton didn't feel real and I didn't feel like she added much to the story, other than annoyingly prying Levi's eyelids open in the morning and interjecting statements like "I have to poop!" at the dinner table.
Even though there are two romances happening, it was all very repeatey rather than interesting. Both heroines have commitment issues, so it was a constant litany of "I can't / I don't want to / I must remain an island / I can't depend on others / I am not lovable / avoid avoid avoid avoid" - that got old fast.
And, okay, this is just a quirk of mine I suppose, but my list-loving heart gets sooooo disappointed when characters whip out a "getting to know you" list of questions, and then ... set it aside and ignore it. Nooooo! There's a list! A list right there next to you! Go through the list!!! (I also get upset when a delicious meal is served but no one eats it. This happens more often in movies than in books.)
My main problem is that I didn't really like any of the characters. A successful romance novel requires that the reader connect with and like the characters, and that just wasn't happening for me. They were, by turns, needy, pushy, boundary stomping, and controlling. The dialogue was clunky, the constant double entendres were cringe. And then at the end
I didn't completely buy the relationship between Jane & Levi. Charlotte & Mateo might be ready, Levi might be ready, but Jane has far too many issues to maintain a successful relationship - she needs YEARS of therapy. YEARS.
Charlotte was ridiculous, too. I get not wanting to accept help from others, I'm the same. But when your neighbor plows your shared driveway clear of snow, I don't understand why you'd be so angry that you would put the snow back. I know that was meant to be funny and charming, but it's just ludicrous. I don't want to know anyone who is that nonsensical. And if Charlotte is a surgeon, and Mateo is an ER doctor at the same hospital, why can he easily afford his house (with furnishings) but she is struggling to pay the bills, even with rental income? She's a SURGEON.
I haven't lived in California in a long time (and never in Tahoe) so maybe I don't understand what their winter weather is like, but there were regular mentions of people sitting outside on porches or steps or benches, even walking outside barefoot ... in the snow. Who does that? Here in NY, when the deck is covered in snow, it's covered in snow, there are no available seats and no one in their right mind will sit out there (exception: ice fishing). I don't even want to describe the pain of stepping in snow barefoot (yes, I have done it - sometimes it can't be avoided). The winter I spent in CA wasn't very cold, so I get that it's warmer there, but ... if there's snow, it's ... cold? Who wants to sit on a snow-covered bench?
I picked this up to fill "a book about a found family" for the Popsugar 2022 Reading Challenge. A book titled "The Family You Make" ought to be perfect, right? In retrospect, not so much, and if I had not intentionally borrowed this book for that category, I probably wouldn't use it, because the hero has a thriving (and annoying) biological family around him, his parents, his sister, and his niece, and the heroine is busy stalking her biological grandfather. The heroine does live with a woman and in a way they are a found family, and there are lots of issues of wanting a family and allowing friends to be like family, so if I look only at that part of the plot, this book works.
Certain words seem to BALLOON off the page when they are repeated even just a few times.
word count:
squirm - 10 - it's like everyone squirms in this book! Do they all have to pee???
crack (as in, "it's so good it's like crack") - 4 (which, imo, is four too many times)
I was also annoyed by the number of times these characters forget to eat or don't eat or don't pack food to eat or don't pack enough food to eat or eat a quick snack or don't find time to eat or were so hungry but still didn't eat. It comes up A LOT.
Also, feral cats have worms (and fleas, and ticks, but maybe not so much in winter?). I would NOT want a stray cat to curl up on my pillow in my bed, not until it's been treated for parasites. I'm itchy just thinking about it.
April 20, 2022
The Family you Make is such a fun book.
Picture this, you're near beautiful Lake Tahoe, a blizzard is taking place and the ski lift you're in loses power so you're stranded in it with a handsome man and he's reassuring you the crazily rocking with the high wind car isn't going to have the cable snap on it.
This is the start of a "pretend" romance who his parents believe, you are "the one".
How to not disappoint them when it's not a real romance but he's a fun guy and he's starting to look better all the time and those feelings you have for him, well they are starting to feel more real by the minute.
We see the value of family here and relationships.
Pub Date 11 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Picture this, you're near beautiful Lake Tahoe, a blizzard is taking place and the ski lift you're in loses power so you're stranded in it with a handsome man and he's reassuring you the crazily rocking with the high wind car isn't going to have the cable snap on it.
This is the start of a "pretend" romance who his parents believe, you are "the one".
How to not disappoint them when it's not a real romance but he's a fun guy and he's starting to look better all the time and those feelings you have for him, well they are starting to feel more real by the minute.
We see the value of family here and relationships.
Pub Date 11 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
November 25, 2021
I wanted to like this book because I’ve enjoyed Jill Shalvis’s other books. It opened up dramatically with the H and h meeting on a ski gondola that almost crashes hundreds feet into the mountain. That was a great opening, but it was all downhill from there. The heroine and her best friend have had sad histories that have made them reject getting close to others or developing romantic relationships. But there are two great guys who fall for each of these women. The guys are as nice and patient and sexy as anyone could ever wish for, but the women blow hot and cold as they have trouble overcoming their demons. So we have the same basic scene over and over again as each woman is attracted to her designated love interest and he’s absolutely wonderful to her and then she withdraws and blows him off. Rinse and repeat. It became very tedious and repetitive.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
September 18, 2023
Three and a half stars
Levi Cutler and Jane Parks are stranded on a ski lift during a violent storm. Thinking they are about to die, Levi calls his parents to say goodbye. But when it comes to it he can’t do it. When his mother hears Jane’s voice, she makes assumptions. Instead Levi ends up trying to make his mother happy by telling her he has a girlfriend and her name is Jane. Then the phone cuts out. When Levi and Jane do get rescued his family want to meet this special one. In thanks for his role in saving her life on the lift Jane agrees to be his pretend girlfriend, at least until after his parent’s special wedding anniversary. Jane’s past where she was passed around like a parcel and feeling betrayed by many has left her wary to give her heart. It has also left her wary of family. The only person she is close to is Charlotte , a doctor and good friend with who, she is staying with. Jane is a travelling nurse. The relationship between Jane and Levi is only pretend and for a short time, she can cope with that, can’t she?
All right so you can probably guess the way the story is tracking but it takes a pleasant journey on the way through. Also there is another likely romance with Charlotte and her neighbour, if Charlotte lets her guard down. But will she be able to do that?
I liked all the four main characters and Levi's family members are interesting. This is light and fun but has some serious themes as well. I enjoyed this story of family and friendship.
Levi Cutler and Jane Parks are stranded on a ski lift during a violent storm. Thinking they are about to die, Levi calls his parents to say goodbye. But when it comes to it he can’t do it. When his mother hears Jane’s voice, she makes assumptions. Instead Levi ends up trying to make his mother happy by telling her he has a girlfriend and her name is Jane. Then the phone cuts out. When Levi and Jane do get rescued his family want to meet this special one. In thanks for his role in saving her life on the lift Jane agrees to be his pretend girlfriend, at least until after his parent’s special wedding anniversary. Jane’s past where she was passed around like a parcel and feeling betrayed by many has left her wary to give her heart. It has also left her wary of family. The only person she is close to is Charlotte , a doctor and good friend with who, she is staying with. Jane is a travelling nurse. The relationship between Jane and Levi is only pretend and for a short time, she can cope with that, can’t she?
All right so you can probably guess the way the story is tracking but it takes a pleasant journey on the way through. Also there is another likely romance with Charlotte and her neighbour, if Charlotte lets her guard down. But will she be able to do that?
I liked all the four main characters and Levi's family members are interesting. This is light and fun but has some serious themes as well. I enjoyed this story of family and friendship.
March 11, 2024
Series: The Sunrise Cove Series, Book 1
Narrated by: Erin Mallon
Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
Levi and Jane first met during the snowstorm when they got stuck on a ski lift. This life-threatening incident bonded them together but they are both afraid of commitment. Jane is suffering after a traumatic childhood, and she's always on the move. Levi feels guilty after his girlfriend's death, and he hasn't been close to anyone although his family is eager to see him settled down. Despite their problems Jane and Levi find themselves spending more time together and learning to trust and believe in love again.
Sweet and cute story but for me it was a bit slow, repetitive and predictible. It was strange how I already knew what will happen next although I haven't read this story before.
As we get to read Levi's and Jane's POV, then we know all the time what is happening and how they feel. So you get to read the same things over and over again. There's also secondary romance with Jane's friend Charlotte and Levi's friend Matteo, which only made this story more fragmented. Everyone had some sort of deep problem and baggage but I really never felt any of it - we were just told, not delved deeper into their stuff. Author jumped between different characters without bothering to develop any of them or make them feel more real and give them more depth.
It was okay story but not something memorable or remarkable.
Narrated by: Erin Mallon
Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
Levi and Jane first met during the snowstorm when they got stuck on a ski lift. This life-threatening incident bonded them together but they are both afraid of commitment. Jane is suffering after a traumatic childhood, and she's always on the move. Levi feels guilty after his girlfriend's death, and he hasn't been close to anyone although his family is eager to see him settled down. Despite their problems Jane and Levi find themselves spending more time together and learning to trust and believe in love again.
Sweet and cute story but for me it was a bit slow, repetitive and predictible. It was strange how I already knew what will happen next although I haven't read this story before.
As we get to read Levi's and Jane's POV, then we know all the time what is happening and how they feel. So you get to read the same things over and over again. There's also secondary romance with Jane's friend Charlotte and Levi's friend Matteo, which only made this story more fragmented. Everyone had some sort of deep problem and baggage but I really never felt any of it - we were just told, not delved deeper into their stuff. Author jumped between different characters without bothering to develop any of them or make them feel more real and give them more depth.
It was okay story but not something memorable or remarkable.
January 13, 2022
I love the start of a new series. So much to look forward to in Shalvis' books. Alway the hot male character and so much emotions all the feels.
The Family you Make made me long for a family. I was sucked in from the very first page. You won't be able to put it down once you start it.
4 stars and I recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
The Family you Make made me long for a family. I was sucked in from the very first page. You won't be able to put it down once you start it.
4 stars and I recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
January 10, 2022
I am always excited for a new Jill Shalvis novel and I was extra excited about the fact that The Family You Make is the first book of a new series. I loved the Lake Tahoe setting, and Shalvis did a great job of bringing that area to life in the book. The top thing I love about her books though is the characters and I have never met a Jill Shalvis character that I haven't liked. There were plenty of them to love in The Family You Make, and the story rotates between Levi, Jane, and Jane's best friend/landlord Charlotte. I am very used to Shalvis doing 2 male and 2 female viewpoints, so this was a bit of a change-up from her usual format, but I loved it just the same. The beginning of the book focuses on Levi and Jane's near-death experience which is also how they meet and then continues on to include Charlotte's viewpoint with a special focus on her finding love.
The Family You Make is quintessential Shalvis with each of the characters dealing with their faults and fears, all the while including some furry friends, a heartwarming ending, and plenty of humor. There were quite a few moments I had tears in my eyes, and I especially loved the epilogue. There is the inclusion of romance of course, and there is a little bit of steam that makes it into this story as well. I found myself wanting to be lost in these characters and their world forever, and I never wanted the book to end. If you are a fan of people getting their HEA's then this is definitely the book for you, especially if you like when there are some bumps along the way. I would have liked a bit more from Charlotte and Mateo's story since I thought the end for them was a bit rushed, and Jane's character did grate a bit on me at times (there is only so much pushing away I can take from one person), but otherwise, I loved everything about The Family You Make and I can't wait for book 2!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Family You Make is quintessential Shalvis with each of the characters dealing with their faults and fears, all the while including some furry friends, a heartwarming ending, and plenty of humor. There were quite a few moments I had tears in my eyes, and I especially loved the epilogue. There is the inclusion of romance of course, and there is a little bit of steam that makes it into this story as well. I found myself wanting to be lost in these characters and their world forever, and I never wanted the book to end. If you are a fan of people getting their HEA's then this is definitely the book for you, especially if you like when there are some bumps along the way. I would have liked a bit more from Charlotte and Mateo's story since I thought the end for them was a bit rushed, and Jane's character did grate a bit on me at times (there is only so much pushing away I can take from one person), but otherwise, I loved everything about The Family You Make and I can't wait for book 2!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 1, 2022
Jill Shalvis became one of my favorite new-to-me authors in 2021 and I'm so thrilled to kick off 2022 featuring my review of her newest book, releasing January 11th.
Jane and Levi get stuck on a gondola during a snow storm. Fearing for their life, Levi makes a call to his family to say good bye but can't bring himself to do it. Instead, he tells his mom the one thing she wants to hear. That he found love. With Jane, the girl he just met.
I fell in love with Jane and Levi, and I absolutely loved this fake dieting romance. This book is also full of wonderful supporting characters including Levi's whole family, most especially his niece who made me smiling at every turn. Jane's BFF, Charlotte, plays a big role too, with her own love story.
Rarely do I find a book with so many well developed side characters but Jill Shalvis does it flawlessly. I wish I could have stayed with in this town longer. This is the first of a new series taking part in Sunrise Cove, a small mountain town. I hope to meet them all again in book 2🤞
Thank you Get Red PR gifted copy. This was a perfect book to start off 2022.
Jane and Levi get stuck on a gondola during a snow storm. Fearing for their life, Levi makes a call to his family to say good bye but can't bring himself to do it. Instead, he tells his mom the one thing she wants to hear. That he found love. With Jane, the girl he just met.
I fell in love with Jane and Levi, and I absolutely loved this fake dieting romance. This book is also full of wonderful supporting characters including Levi's whole family, most especially his niece who made me smiling at every turn. Jane's BFF, Charlotte, plays a big role too, with her own love story.
Rarely do I find a book with so many well developed side characters but Jill Shalvis does it flawlessly. I wish I could have stayed with in this town longer. This is the first of a new series taking part in Sunrise Cove, a small mountain town. I hope to meet them all again in book 2🤞
Thank you Get Red PR gifted copy. This was a perfect book to start off 2022.
December 13, 2021
The only thing better than a new @jillshalvis book is when the new book is the start of a new series! When I saw it would be set in Lake Tahoe I swooned a little, it is such a gorgeous place and we’ve been on three family vacations there, it’s such a special place for my family. Anyway, is anyone surprised to hear me say that I adored this one? The author can do no wrong for me her books have it all but I’ll leave you with a little list of what to expect from this one and my ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating.
❄️ Fake dating between Jane and Levi who have 🔥 chemistry
❄️ A secondary storyline featuring a romance between Charlotte and Mateo with a friends to lovers/enemies to lovers vibe so you get a taste of allll of the tropes
❄️ So much humor in the form of witty banter, nosy family members and adorable kids
❄️ Emotional depth and lots of family, both the one you’re born with and found family leaving me feeling all warm and cozy
❄️ Fake dating between Jane and Levi who have 🔥 chemistry
❄️ A secondary storyline featuring a romance between Charlotte and Mateo with a friends to lovers/enemies to lovers vibe so you get a taste of allll of the tropes
❄️ So much humor in the form of witty banter, nosy family members and adorable kids
❄️ Emotional depth and lots of family, both the one you’re born with and found family leaving me feeling all warm and cozy
December 28, 2021
TITLE: The Family You Make (The Sunrise Cove Series Book 1)
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUB DATE: 01.11.2022
SYNOPSIS: Swipe above
I have fallen in love with Jane and Levi in this first book in The Sunrise Cove series, by one of my favorites, Jill Shalvis. Set in Lake Tahoe where my family and I vacationed with my parents, this series had me longing to go back and relive the fun memories, now with my own family.
Top five reasons to read this book and to preorder now.
⛷ A near tragic snowstorm brings the characters together - quite emotional
⛷ Incredible chemistry between Levi and Jane - swoon worthy romance
⛷ The perfect read to curl up in this winter season set in beautiful Lake Tahoe
⛷ The characters’ back stories are so well written you become so invested - they become immediate friends and really, family - which is the overall theme
⛷ Secondary characters’ romance between Charlotte and Mateo (a nice bonus) 🩺
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUB DATE: 01.11.2022
SYNOPSIS: Swipe above
I have fallen in love with Jane and Levi in this first book in The Sunrise Cove series, by one of my favorites, Jill Shalvis. Set in Lake Tahoe where my family and I vacationed with my parents, this series had me longing to go back and relive the fun memories, now with my own family.
Top five reasons to read this book and to preorder now.
⛷ A near tragic snowstorm brings the characters together - quite emotional
⛷ Incredible chemistry between Levi and Jane - swoon worthy romance
⛷ The perfect read to curl up in this winter season set in beautiful Lake Tahoe
⛷ The characters’ back stories are so well written you become so invested - they become immediate friends and really, family - which is the overall theme
⛷ Secondary characters’ romance between Charlotte and Mateo (a nice bonus) 🩺
September 5, 2021
(Free review copy) My new favorite Jill Shalvis book! And a series starter which means I have MORE to look forward to 😍 I loved the unique setting (Lake Tahoe) and characters (traveling nurse + data scientist) and the storyline of past hurts standing in the way of trust. The found family theme is wonderful too. It all just worked perfectly for me!
October 27, 2021
ARC received from author for an honest review
I have said for many many years that blood does not make you family,and Ms Shalvis has given us a story that proves that old adage.
The first thing I thought of with the first chapters of this book were Jack and Annie from the movie speed, where Jack says "I have to warn you, I've heard relationships based on tense experiences never work. Okay. We'll have to base it on sex then."
Levi and Jane's story is sweet and emotional story about how the past and family and friends can affect people in the present.
I did get frustrated with Jane pushing everyone away when all they ever wanted to do was hold on to her and love her. I got it, I did, but sheesh I wanted to tell her that if she didn't stay with Levi, I was moving halfway around the world to claim him!
As much as they annoyed me (and Levi and Jane) at times, you can feel nothing but the love his family has for him, and how they wholly envelop Jane into their lives.
I enjoyed this first installment in this series, and I look forward to more in the future.
a>
I have said for many many years that blood does not make you family,and Ms Shalvis has given us a story that proves that old adage.
The first thing I thought of with the first chapters of this book were Jack and Annie from the movie speed, where Jack says "I have to warn you, I've heard relationships based on tense experiences never work. Okay. We'll have to base it on sex then."
Levi and Jane's story is sweet and emotional story about how the past and family and friends can affect people in the present.
I did get frustrated with Jane pushing everyone away when all they ever wanted to do was hold on to her and love her. I got it, I did, but sheesh I wanted to tell her that if she didn't stay with Levi, I was moving halfway around the world to claim him!
As much as they annoyed me (and Levi and Jane) at times, you can feel nothing but the love his family has for him, and how they wholly envelop Jane into their lives.
I enjoyed this first installment in this series, and I look forward to more in the future.
a>
September 5, 2021
The Family You Make by Jill Shalvis Enjoyable romantic story with two couples, Levi and Jane and Mateo and Charlotte. Both couples are perfect for each other, they just have to overcome personal past issues to trust their feelings. Both Levi and Mateo are extremely patient, understanding and totally supportive of Jane and Charlotte. First in a new series, looking forward to reading more about the couples' family members and wondering if Tess will be next to find happiness.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
April 3, 2022
I just didn't connect with the characters. They seemed shallow, I never felt for them. It was an okay read but could have passed on it
January 12, 2022
The Family you Make by Jill Shalvis is the first in the new Sunrise Cove series, and I thought it was an emotional story of finding the place where you belong and real love. The drama begins with two strangers, Levi and Jane, thinking they aren’t going to survive the night, and she’s been mistaken for his girlfriend. Fortunately, they survived and Levi would like make Jane his ‘pretend girlfriend’ to make his family happy. Jane however, doesn’t do happy family, never having one of her own. She’s a lone wolf of sort and a travelling nurse, making a stop in Lake Tahoe before the next contract takes her away. What may have started out as pretend, slowly becomes real for both of them, and they both don’t know what to do about it.
I adore Jill Shalvis for her humorous and witty stories and this one is no exception. The Family you Make is a charming and heartfelt story that her fans are going to love. She develops her stories with input from other characters to add depth to the development of the romance. An added bonus was a budding romance between two of Jane’s friends, Charlotte and Mateo, which had their own issues to overcome, but somehow manage it which was very entertaining. The author has set the stage for a new series and I look forward to visiting Sunrise Cove soon.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I adore Jill Shalvis for her humorous and witty stories and this one is no exception. The Family you Make is a charming and heartfelt story that her fans are going to love. She develops her stories with input from other characters to add depth to the development of the romance. An added bonus was a budding romance between two of Jane’s friends, Charlotte and Mateo, which had their own issues to overcome, but somehow manage it which was very entertaining. The author has set the stage for a new series and I look forward to visiting Sunrise Cove soon.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
November 28, 2025
Sometimes, there is so much
happiness
in a story that I don't know where to even begin reviewing.
This is one of those stories.
Whatever boxes you like to check off in your romance / women's fiction reads, I promise you this story will have them.
My mind, my heart and my soul were all happy and cocooned in a giant bubble of hope thru this entire story. I cannot rec this story enough!
Kindle https://amzn.to/3oCxbut
Nook https://bit.ly/3hRGeGm
Kobo https://bit.ly/3oEJZ3F
Apple Books https://apple.co/3faIbMk
This is one of those stories.
Whatever boxes you like to check off in your romance / women's fiction reads, I promise you this story will have them.
My mind, my heart and my soul were all happy and cocooned in a giant bubble of hope thru this entire story. I cannot rec this story enough!
Kindle https://amzn.to/3oCxbut
Nook https://bit.ly/3hRGeGm
Kobo https://bit.ly/3oEJZ3F
Apple Books https://apple.co/3faIbMk
January 24, 2024
This was a very slow burn. In fact, it felt like the romance wasn’t really the main focus of the book. It was more about family dynamics and the family you make through friendships.
There was very minimal spice to this book. And it was kind of hard to feel the chemistry behind the love stories, because they seemed to be more like friendships that lacked chemistry.
There were a lot of funny moments, heartwarming moments, tragic moments, etc. but I had trouble fully emotionally connecting to the story. It was still good, just wasn’t anything amazing.
There was very minimal spice to this book. And it was kind of hard to feel the chemistry behind the love stories, because they seemed to be more like friendships that lacked chemistry.
There were a lot of funny moments, heartwarming moments, tragic moments, etc. but I had trouble fully emotionally connecting to the story. It was still good, just wasn’t anything amazing.
July 5, 2022
Loved! Review maybe.
January 26, 2022
4 stars - Contemporary Romance
This is a heartwarming, feel-good read with two sweet romances, and it really hit the spot.
This is a heartwarming, feel-good read with two sweet romances, and it really hit the spot.
May 7, 2022
I just can’t. Beginning at around 40% I started skimming.
When it comes to the characters. I have to agree with a lot of other reviewers and say that I didn’t find them very likable. Jane was irritating and I didn’t think that her back story was well developed enough for me to sympathize with her. Levi’s adoration of her seemed far too instant. I wish it had been developed further because as written the attraction wasn’t very believable and honestly the romance was a bit boring to read. There was no reason for it! Nothing Jane did or said was attractive - pure example of an author telling us something is the case and not showing. In a romance novel, that’s just pure bad execution and writing.
Also, why are the characters so childish? When reading the dialogue, scenarios, or the way these people act, I feel as though I’m reading about teenagers rather than adults who theoretically have demanding careers. ER doctors betting on not using the restroom? Putting snow back once it’s been cleared? Hiding under tables when you’re trying to be stealthy? Really? Are we 5 years old?
I’m also really tired of the sacrificial, transient lifestyle trope that a lot of these romance writers fall back on. It feels incredibly lazy. Insert also rebels / heroic response in generic, unresearched country and it just ends up being an eye rolling read for me.
Finally, and this is a super nit, but venmo does not have an accept payment feature. When a payment is submitted, that’s it…it’s done. When Jane says that she paid her rent to Charlotte via venmo, but has checked her bank balance and it wasn’t accepted (because of course these examples of Charlotte’s martyrdom supposedly endear us to her more?), I’m thinking clearly this author has never used venmo, but wanted it inserted here to be “current”? Not only does venmo not have an accept payment feature, why would you check your bank balance to confirm whether a payment was submitted? The information is in the app? I know this is a really small nit, but it feels like one more example of laziness in writing / editing. This author churns out the same tropes, poorly crafted characters, non-dialogue over and over again and on top of that, there are some things that are factually incorrect or don’t make sense.
I won’t be coming back to this author. I’m looking for romance reads where the author puts in a little bit more effort.
When it comes to the characters. I have to agree with a lot of other reviewers and say that I didn’t find them very likable. Jane was irritating and I didn’t think that her back story was well developed enough for me to sympathize with her. Levi’s adoration of her seemed far too instant. I wish it had been developed further because as written the attraction wasn’t very believable and honestly the romance was a bit boring to read. There was no reason for it! Nothing Jane did or said was attractive - pure example of an author telling us something is the case and not showing. In a romance novel, that’s just pure bad execution and writing.
Also, why are the characters so childish? When reading the dialogue, scenarios, or the way these people act, I feel as though I’m reading about teenagers rather than adults who theoretically have demanding careers. ER doctors betting on not using the restroom? Putting snow back once it’s been cleared? Hiding under tables when you’re trying to be stealthy? Really? Are we 5 years old?
I’m also really tired of the sacrificial, transient lifestyle trope that a lot of these romance writers fall back on. It feels incredibly lazy. Insert also rebels / heroic response in generic, unresearched country and it just ends up being an eye rolling read for me.
Finally, and this is a super nit, but venmo does not have an accept payment feature. When a payment is submitted, that’s it…it’s done. When Jane says that she paid her rent to Charlotte via venmo, but has checked her bank balance and it wasn’t accepted (because of course these examples of Charlotte’s martyrdom supposedly endear us to her more?), I’m thinking clearly this author has never used venmo, but wanted it inserted here to be “current”? Not only does venmo not have an accept payment feature, why would you check your bank balance to confirm whether a payment was submitted? The information is in the app? I know this is a really small nit, but it feels like one more example of laziness in writing / editing. This author churns out the same tropes, poorly crafted characters, non-dialogue over and over again and on top of that, there are some things that are factually incorrect or don’t make sense.
I won’t be coming back to this author. I’m looking for romance reads where the author puts in a little bit more effort.
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