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Dogwood Cove #1
Always and Forever
I left Dogwood Cove as a child eighteen years ago when Ethan Monroe was nothing more than my best friend’s older brother.
Now I’m back and he’s so much more.
Gone is the boy I played hide and seek with, and in his place is the seriously hot, plaid-wearing, scruff-bearing, mayor of the small town we grew up in.
I’ve got trust issues that can’t be fixed easily and I didn’t come back here looking for love, but Ethan is determined to prove that coming home could be the start of the life I’ve always dreamed of.
Could he be the man to put my damaged heart back together for good?
Always and Forever is perfect for fans of steamy small town romance, found family friend groups, cinnamon roll heroes, plenty of swoon, light hearted banter, quirky small town vibes, low angst and high heat love stories with a guaranteed HEA. It is a standalone, and the first full length novel in the Dogwood Cove series.
Now I’m back and he’s so much more.
Gone is the boy I played hide and seek with, and in his place is the seriously hot, plaid-wearing, scruff-bearing, mayor of the small town we grew up in.
I’ve got trust issues that can’t be fixed easily and I didn’t come back here looking for love, but Ethan is determined to prove that coming home could be the start of the life I’ve always dreamed of.
Could he be the man to put my damaged heart back together for good?
Always and Forever is perfect for fans of steamy small town romance, found family friend groups, cinnamon roll heroes, plenty of swoon, light hearted banter, quirky small town vibes, low angst and high heat love stories with a guaranteed HEA. It is a standalone, and the first full length novel in the Dogwood Cove series.
273 pages, ebook
First published June 24, 2021
907 people are currently reading
2264 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
February 27, 2022
This book had the sweetness of a hallmark movie, but at times it was too sweet which made it hard to connect with the story. The insta-love was hard to grasp, mainly because it's been 20 years since they had last seen one another, but they acted as if it had only been 2. The connection felt rushed, and by the end of the story my heart hadn't caught up.
I wish I had more time with this story. More time for characters to grow, a story to develop, and more time to get into this world. This book had the backbone of a good story and it had a nice sultry side to balance the sweetness, but it wasn’t enough for me to enjoy this story overall.
Obviously, I am the minority here, so despite my lack of connection with the book, I think others will have a better read than I did. If you are looking for a fast read that doesn’t skimp on the steam but want a small hallmark feel check this one out.
I wish I had more time with this story. More time for characters to grow, a story to develop, and more time to get into this world. This book had the backbone of a good story and it had a nice sultry side to balance the sweetness, but it wasn’t enough for me to enjoy this story overall.
Obviously, I am the minority here, so despite my lack of connection with the book, I think others will have a better read than I did. If you are looking for a fast read that doesn’t skimp on the steam but want a small hallmark feel check this one out.
January 2, 2022
Always and Forever is a wonderfully sweet, sexy, friends to lover's romance that will pull you into this small town of Dogwood Cove and give you all the feels!
Summer had the perfect small-town life until her mom whisked her away from her father and everything that she knew. It is now years later and the death of the father she barely knew brings her back to Dogwood Cove. Old memories are soon filled with new ones and answers that she never thought she needed have come to light.
Ethan Monroe hasn't seen his sister's childhood friend in years but as the most beautiful woman stands before him, he soon realizes that Summer is one in the same!
I am such a sucker for small town romance and Summer, Ethan and their fabulous supporting cast checked off all my boxes!! I hope you are ready to be wooed as this sweet sexy couple sizzle off the pages and into your hearts!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Summer had the perfect small-town life until her mom whisked her away from her father and everything that she knew. It is now years later and the death of the father she barely knew brings her back to Dogwood Cove. Old memories are soon filled with new ones and answers that she never thought she needed have come to light.
Ethan Monroe hasn't seen his sister's childhood friend in years but as the most beautiful woman stands before him, he soon realizes that Summer is one in the same!
I am such a sucker for small town romance and Summer, Ethan and their fabulous supporting cast checked off all my boxes!! I hope you are ready to be wooed as this sweet sexy couple sizzle off the pages and into your hearts!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
August 23, 2021
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Summer isn't looking for love. Nope. And it's true what you just read.
She's looking to deal with her estranged father's will and deal with a run down beach front house. Love is far from her plans.
When she meets up with Ethan, her childhood friend's older brother, a man she thought she'd never see again, she is shocked.
And she tries desperately to fight her chemistry and feelings for him.
But who can defy fate and fight amazing chemistry with the one you were meant to be with.
I loved Julia's writing style, despite it being my first novel of hers. I loved how intriguing and deep her writing just went in, in terms of making me feel a part of Dogwood Cove, Summer, and Ethan's world. I just was so heartbroken when I finally left it at the book's end. I was so sucked in the book, I forgot my own troubles and went happily along with the ride that was Summer and Ethan's life story.
The chemistry, the feelings and how they understood each other, I was rooting for them all the way. I cannot wait for the next book honestly because the first book just raised my expectations - so the second one should definitely match up.
Overall, the writing, the chemistry, the emotional depth made me so deliriously happy for Summer and Ethan, I was almost a crying ball by the time I was done.
So I can't wait. Seriously. NEXT BOOK, HIT ME BABY!
Until the next read,
-TMR
Summer isn't looking for love. Nope. And it's true what you just read.
She's looking to deal with her estranged father's will and deal with a run down beach front house. Love is far from her plans.
When she meets up with Ethan, her childhood friend's older brother, a man she thought she'd never see again, she is shocked.
And she tries desperately to fight her chemistry and feelings for him.
But who can defy fate and fight amazing chemistry with the one you were meant to be with.
I loved Julia's writing style, despite it being my first novel of hers. I loved how intriguing and deep her writing just went in, in terms of making me feel a part of Dogwood Cove, Summer, and Ethan's world. I just was so heartbroken when I finally left it at the book's end. I was so sucked in the book, I forgot my own troubles and went happily along with the ride that was Summer and Ethan's life story.
The chemistry, the feelings and how they understood each other, I was rooting for them all the way. I cannot wait for the next book honestly because the first book just raised my expectations - so the second one should definitely match up.
Overall, the writing, the chemistry, the emotional depth made me so deliriously happy for Summer and Ethan, I was almost a crying ball by the time I was done.
So I can't wait. Seriously. NEXT BOOK, HIT ME BABY!
Until the next read,
-TMR
January 12, 2024
A sweet small town romance but it didn’t wow me! Summer and Ethan had low angst, and a quick developing romance which I enjoyed!
January 24, 2023
I was so excited when I discovered Julia Jarrett started a new series, and when I got an ARC, I was ecstatic. Because let's be honest, Julia Jarrett always delivers!
Always And Forever is the first book in the Dogwood Cove series.
I adored Summer and Ethan, they are childhood friends, but they both discover other feelings than friendship when summer comes back after years. From their first contact, I was able to feel their connection and needed them together.
Ethan is a fantastic hero, hot, swoony with a touch of alpha.
Summer was so strong. I loved how she followed her heart.
Like all Julia Jarrett novels, Forever And After brought up all the feels. Julia Jarrett always manages to let me feel everything that the characters feel, a feeling I'm addicted to.
This is a small-town romance, so there were quite a few side characters that have gotten introduced. I'm already curious who will be the next couple in the series. I can't wait.
From the first page, I was addicted to Always And Forever. I finished the book in less than
If you love a small-town, friends to lovers, best friend brother romance that will give you all the feels but mainly will make you smile, this is a must-read for you.
UPDATE JANUARY 22, 2023 AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
Grayson Owens and Heather Firth narrate the audiobook. Grayson Owens and Heather Firth gave life to Ethan and Summer, I enjoyed their narration, it was pleasant to listen to and added to the story.
I loved reading the story, but the audiobook made the story real for me.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Always And Forever is the first book in the Dogwood Cove series.
I adored Summer and Ethan, they are childhood friends, but they both discover other feelings than friendship when summer comes back after years. From their first contact, I was able to feel their connection and needed them together.
Ethan is a fantastic hero, hot, swoony with a touch of alpha.
Summer was so strong. I loved how she followed her heart.
Like all Julia Jarrett novels, Forever And After brought up all the feels. Julia Jarrett always manages to let me feel everything that the characters feel, a feeling I'm addicted to.
This is a small-town romance, so there were quite a few side characters that have gotten introduced. I'm already curious who will be the next couple in the series. I can't wait.
From the first page, I was addicted to Always And Forever. I finished the book in less than
If you love a small-town, friends to lovers, best friend brother romance that will give you all the feels but mainly will make you smile, this is a must-read for you.
UPDATE JANUARY 22, 2023 AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
Grayson Owens and Heather Firth narrate the audiobook. Grayson Owens and Heather Firth gave life to Ethan and Summer, I enjoyed their narration, it was pleasant to listen to and added to the story.
I loved reading the story, but the audiobook made the story real for me.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
September 12, 2021
I really enjoyed this heartfelt, small town, romance! Ethan and Summer are childhood friends who’ve grown up and haven’t seen each other in years. Ethan is also her best friend’s brother. This story had all the fun hallmark vibes but with great sex scenes. I felt for Summer as she was navigating her father’s death and establishing her new life in Dogwood Cove. Ethan is swoony, possessive and falls head over heels for his woman. I loved the characters, their growth, and hea!
January 30, 2022
3/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶
This was my first read by Julia Jarrett but it is not my last! I initially bought the series because a dude from my hometown is on the cover of #3 but I’m glad I did because this series is going to be CUTE AF!
It was very low angst but spicier than I was expecting. Ethan was pretty alpha-like which was a pleasant surprise. I’d like to order one for myself please and thank you 😂
Mila’s story is next and I can’t wait to see how the baker and the vet get on. Or… get IT on. Heh.
3/5 🌶
This was my first read by Julia Jarrett but it is not my last! I initially bought the series because a dude from my hometown is on the cover of #3 but I’m glad I did because this series is going to be CUTE AF!
It was very low angst but spicier than I was expecting. Ethan was pretty alpha-like which was a pleasant surprise. I’d like to order one for myself please and thank you 😂
Mila’s story is next and I can’t wait to see how the baker and the vet get on. Or… get IT on. Heh.
February 26, 2023
3.5⭐️
This was a super cute and easy read. I really liked the FMC hannah and the MMC Ethan was cute too. I for some reason enjoyed the third act breakup? Lol. And I liked the grovelling that happened in this book. But tbh I was kinda bored throughout some of it and wasn’t invested in the characters or their lives.
I did LOVE mila tho and cant wait for her story next!
This was a super cute and easy read. I really liked the FMC hannah and the MMC Ethan was cute too. I for some reason enjoyed the third act breakup? Lol. And I liked the grovelling that happened in this book. But tbh I was kinda bored throughout some of it and wasn’t invested in the characters or their lives.
I did LOVE mila tho and cant wait for her story next!
January 28, 2022
Yoga instructor Summer Harris was born in the small town of Dogwood Cove, but she and her mother moved away after her parents split up and she's spent the last twenty years believing that her father didn't want anything to do with her. He recently passed away and Summer is surprised to learn that he left her a beachfront resort in her hometown. She returns to Dogwood Cove to deal with her inheritance and learns that there may have been more to the story than her mother shared. She also reconnects with her childhood friend Mila Monroe, who gives her a place to stay and arranges for her older brother Ethan, a handyman as well as the mayor of Dogwood Cove, to help Summer with much-needed repairs at the resort. When they were kids, Ethan thought of Summer as another sister, but now that she's all grown up, his feelings for her are anything but brotherly. Summer is drawn to Ethan too, but worries that Mila will be upset if they start dating. Besides, without funds to reopen the resort, Summer may not be able to stay in Dogwood Cove.
Ethan and Summer had great chemistry and everything about their relationship felt natural from the outset. I will say that I thought the conflict between them was blown out of proportion, but I understood where each of them was coming from and never doubted that they'd find their way through it. My favorite part of the story, however, was Ethan's sister Mila. I'm reading this series out of order and already knew I liked Mila after reading book 2, but it was fun getting to know her again here. She was so sweet, effervescent, and welcoming of Summer, which was exactly what Summer needed after losing her dad. Summer didn't have many friends and her only remaining family was her mom, who wasn't a big part of her life. I adore stories that feature found families, and Summer was lucky to find a wonderful one in Dogwood Cove.
Overall, I very much enjoyed "Always and Forever" and recommend it for all contemporary romance fans, especially those who enjoy small town romance and/or the friends-to-lovers trope. I look forward to continuing with the series.
Ethan and Summer had great chemistry and everything about their relationship felt natural from the outset. I will say that I thought the conflict between them was blown out of proportion, but I understood where each of them was coming from and never doubted that they'd find their way through it. My favorite part of the story, however, was Ethan's sister Mila. I'm reading this series out of order and already knew I liked Mila after reading book 2, but it was fun getting to know her again here. She was so sweet, effervescent, and welcoming of Summer, which was exactly what Summer needed after losing her dad. Summer didn't have many friends and her only remaining family was her mom, who wasn't a big part of her life. I adore stories that feature found families, and Summer was lucky to find a wonderful one in Dogwood Cove.
Overall, I very much enjoyed "Always and Forever" and recommend it for all contemporary romance fans, especially those who enjoy small town romance and/or the friends-to-lovers trope. I look forward to continuing with the series.
September 1, 2025
Summer non ha mai trovato un posto stabile da poter chiamare casa. Sua madre l'ha portata via da Dogwood Cove e da suo padre Carl quando lei era bambina. Non le ha mai dato una stabilità a causa del suo cambiare uomini in continuazione.
Una volta cresciuta, Summer si è allontanata dalla madre, ma ancora non ha un posto definitivo, fino a quando riceve una lettera da Dogwood Cove, che le cambierà la vita.
Il padre infatti è deceduto e lei deve tornare nella cittadina dove è nata, in quanto nel testamento è scritto che il padre le ha lasciato "Oceanside Resort", un resort formato da dei vecchi cottage sulla spiaggia, di cui però bisogna fare una ristrutturazione.
Adesso spetta a Summer rimettere in piedi il resort, che fortunatamente, nonostante gli anni, riuscirà a ristrutturare grazie all'aiuto della sua migliore amica Mila, del fratello di lei Ethan, sindaco della città, e di tutti gli abitanti del paese.
Summer e Ethan provano attrazione l'uno per l'altra, anche se all'inizio cercano di non pensarci per non deludere Mila, ma l'amore è più forte e alla fine cedono alla passione.
Ho trovato la lettura scorrevole, dove l'autrice è riuscita con la sua penna a coinvolgermi pagina dopo pagina.
Un romanzo smielato e spicy al punto giusto, con una descrizione meticolosa di "Dogwood Cove" che mi ha fatto desiderare di preparare la valigia e di andare al resort di Summer. Spiaggia, falò e stelle; una combinazione davvero magica!
Non vedo l'ora di leggere il prossimo libro e di scoprire di chi parlerà.
Lettura consigliata
Valutazione: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spicy: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Emozioni: 💘💘💘💘
Recensione a cura di Silvia Turi.
Una volta cresciuta, Summer si è allontanata dalla madre, ma ancora non ha un posto definitivo, fino a quando riceve una lettera da Dogwood Cove, che le cambierà la vita.
Il padre infatti è deceduto e lei deve tornare nella cittadina dove è nata, in quanto nel testamento è scritto che il padre le ha lasciato "Oceanside Resort", un resort formato da dei vecchi cottage sulla spiaggia, di cui però bisogna fare una ristrutturazione.
Adesso spetta a Summer rimettere in piedi il resort, che fortunatamente, nonostante gli anni, riuscirà a ristrutturare grazie all'aiuto della sua migliore amica Mila, del fratello di lei Ethan, sindaco della città, e di tutti gli abitanti del paese.
Summer e Ethan provano attrazione l'uno per l'altra, anche se all'inizio cercano di non pensarci per non deludere Mila, ma l'amore è più forte e alla fine cedono alla passione.
Ho trovato la lettura scorrevole, dove l'autrice è riuscita con la sua penna a coinvolgermi pagina dopo pagina.
Un romanzo smielato e spicy al punto giusto, con una descrizione meticolosa di "Dogwood Cove" che mi ha fatto desiderare di preparare la valigia e di andare al resort di Summer. Spiaggia, falò e stelle; una combinazione davvero magica!
Non vedo l'ora di leggere il prossimo libro e di scoprire di chi parlerà.
Lettura consigliata
Valutazione: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spicy: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Emozioni: 💘💘💘💘
Recensione a cura di Silvia Turi.
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June 20, 2021
Summer has returned to the small town she had left years prior. She quickly runs into her childhood best friend, Mila, and soon after her older brother, Ethan.
The moment Summer and Ethan see each other again there is an instant connection. I loved the friendship between them and the relationship that developed between them throughout the story. I loved the sweetness between them and of course, the steaminess between them.
When the book started Summer was kind of lost and I loved the growth of her throughout the story, finding herself and finding a place that feels like home to her, along with the people that make her feel like home.
If you’re looking for a small town, friends to lovers romance this is one to check out.
The moment Summer and Ethan see each other again there is an instant connection. I loved the friendship between them and the relationship that developed between them throughout the story. I loved the sweetness between them and of course, the steaminess between them.
When the book started Summer was kind of lost and I loved the growth of her throughout the story, finding herself and finding a place that feels like home to her, along with the people that make her feel like home.
If you’re looking for a small town, friends to lovers romance this is one to check out.
dnf
March 6, 2025dnf @ 6% - a) the writing is not good and b) you do NOT introduce the love interest as "the closest thing i had to a brother"
October 15, 2021
The story of Ethan and Summer is a small-town sort-of second chance romance between two childhood friends who find their feeling for each other have matured since last they knew each other. I really enjoyed this read. The characters are fun and sweet and you really want them to find love and happiness. The story is low angsty with lots of sizzle. I loved escaping to Dogwood Cove for a few hours. Now I want to go there for real!
August 18, 2021
Small town swoon!
Loved this novel by Julia Jarrett. I am such a sucker for a charming small town and Dogwood Cove delivers. Ethan and Summer were childhood friends who find themselves thrown back together as adults. I loved Summer, she was not a wishy washy heroine - she went after what she wanted and put herself first. I adored her. And Ethan was hot, sweet and supportive with a touch of an alpha streak.
I enjoyed the setting and look forward to more books in the series. This was the perfect balance of steamy and sweet with a little bit of angst. Well done Julia!
Loved this novel by Julia Jarrett. I am such a sucker for a charming small town and Dogwood Cove delivers. Ethan and Summer were childhood friends who find themselves thrown back together as adults. I loved Summer, she was not a wishy washy heroine - she went after what she wanted and put herself first. I adored her. And Ethan was hot, sweet and supportive with a touch of an alpha streak.
I enjoyed the setting and look forward to more books in the series. This was the perfect balance of steamy and sweet with a little bit of angst. Well done Julia!
June 27, 2021
Hello, campfire make-out sessions! Where have you been all my life? 🥵
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
When Summer's estranged father dies and leaves her a small resort in his hometown she goes back to the small island community she grew up in and reconnects with her childhood best friend her her friend's swoony older brother, Ethan.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
𝑨𝑳𝑾𝑨𝒀𝑺 𝑨𝑵𝑫 𝑭𝑶𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑬𝑹 is more than just a Best Friend's sibling romance. I loved the complex family relationships, grief, healing, and forgiveness aspect of this story. We get the sweetest glimpses of Ethan and Summer in their youth to go with the present day sizzle between these two reunited friends.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Summer is a hard working, smart, and likable female lead. I loved seeing her character growth as she unearth long-hidden family secrets and reframes the childhood she thought she knew. And Ethan is a super-sweet man with epic abs and a toolbelt will melt your kindle!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I took off a star because I wish we got more of a reason for their reluctance to enter a relationship. If Ethan had dated a friend of his sister before with disastrous consequences it might have made more sense, but these three characters haven't had any contact in decades so the "forbidden" element seemed kind of weak to me.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The steam between these two characters is hotter than sin and you will be so ready for when they finally get it on!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
You will ADORE this story of how we define "home" and finding peace and love after loss. 𝑨𝑳𝑾𝑨𝒀𝑺 𝑨𝑵𝑫 𝑭𝑶𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑬𝑹 is the first book in a new series and I can't wait to read more! This is my first read by Julia Jarrett and I will definitely read her again.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: family lies, parent estrangement, parent abandonment, death of parent
FEELS-O-METER: 3/5 - So many feels you might tear up.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/2Uy83dz (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
When Summer's estranged father dies and leaves her a small resort in his hometown she goes back to the small island community she grew up in and reconnects with her childhood best friend her her friend's swoony older brother, Ethan.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
𝑨𝑳𝑾𝑨𝒀𝑺 𝑨𝑵𝑫 𝑭𝑶𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑬𝑹 is more than just a Best Friend's sibling romance. I loved the complex family relationships, grief, healing, and forgiveness aspect of this story. We get the sweetest glimpses of Ethan and Summer in their youth to go with the present day sizzle between these two reunited friends.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Summer is a hard working, smart, and likable female lead. I loved seeing her character growth as she unearth long-hidden family secrets and reframes the childhood she thought she knew. And Ethan is a super-sweet man with epic abs and a toolbelt will melt your kindle!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I took off a star because I wish we got more of a reason for their reluctance to enter a relationship. If Ethan had dated a friend of his sister before with disastrous consequences it might have made more sense, but these three characters haven't had any contact in decades so the "forbidden" element seemed kind of weak to me.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The steam between these two characters is hotter than sin and you will be so ready for when they finally get it on!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
You will ADORE this story of how we define "home" and finding peace and love after loss. 𝑨𝑳𝑾𝑨𝒀𝑺 𝑨𝑵𝑫 𝑭𝑶𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑬𝑹 is the first book in a new series and I can't wait to read more! This is my first read by Julia Jarrett and I will definitely read her again.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: family lies, parent estrangement, parent abandonment, death of parent
FEELS-O-METER: 3/5 - So many feels you might tear up.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/2Uy83dz (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
July 6, 2021
After learning of her estranged father’s death, Summer returns home to Dogwood Cove to discover her father left her a run down resort in need of some TLC. So Summer decides to stay and rediscover the town she left behind nearly 2-decades earlier. Still in Dogwood Cove is Summer’s childhood best friend, Mila, and her older brother, Ethan. Summer remembers Ethan as Mila’s fun older brother, but now he’s the Mayor of Dogwood Cove and ultra handsome. He’s definitely not the Ethan that Summer remembers.
Ethan is surprised by Summer’s return and even more surprised by how gorgeous she is after so many years apart. Not only is she easy on the eyes, but she has an enigmatic personality he can’t stay away from. Since he’s good with his hands, Ethan offers to help Summer fix up the resort. He thinks he’s doing Summer a favor, but Ethan is desperate to get as much time with Summer as possible.
It’s not long before Ethan & Summer develop romantic feelings for each other. But since Ethan’s sister is Summer’s closest friend, they try to keep their relationship under wraps—until they can’t anymore & they’re forced to make their new relationship public…
Always and Forever by Julia Jarrett is book 1 in the Dogwood Cove series. This was a sweet, small town romance and a great first book in a new series. I liked all the characters in this story and I’m looking forward to reading about the different side characters that popped up. I think Ethan & Summer had a good connection, but I do wish their was more buildup/backstory before they dived headfirst into a romance. But with that aside, the story was cute & enjoyable! 3.5/5 stars.
Ethan is surprised by Summer’s return and even more surprised by how gorgeous she is after so many years apart. Not only is she easy on the eyes, but she has an enigmatic personality he can’t stay away from. Since he’s good with his hands, Ethan offers to help Summer fix up the resort. He thinks he’s doing Summer a favor, but Ethan is desperate to get as much time with Summer as possible.
It’s not long before Ethan & Summer develop romantic feelings for each other. But since Ethan’s sister is Summer’s closest friend, they try to keep their relationship under wraps—until they can’t anymore & they’re forced to make their new relationship public…
Always and Forever by Julia Jarrett is book 1 in the Dogwood Cove series. This was a sweet, small town romance and a great first book in a new series. I liked all the characters in this story and I’m looking forward to reading about the different side characters that popped up. I think Ethan & Summer had a good connection, but I do wish their was more buildup/backstory before they dived headfirst into a romance. But with that aside, the story was cute & enjoyable! 3.5/5 stars.
September 27, 2021
This was just the sweetest! Lots of hallmark vibes for me plus some great steam! I love a good small town romance! And I’m excited to read Mila’s story next!
January 24, 2023
A fantastic summer read with all the swoon!
I was immediately smitten with Summer and Ethan. They had easy chemistry and fun flirtation that had me smiling throughout the book.
Your heart breaks for Summer as she discovers the truth about her parents. But the way she handles returning to Dogwood Cove and the inheritance of Oceanside Resort has you admiring her fortitude.
Ethan knows how to bring the swoon. From his flirty comments to his instinctive need to help Summer, he is a dreamboat. I was twitter-patted when he insisted on taking Summer on a date before taking their chemistry to the bedroom.
I am seriously crushing on the girl gang that Summer finds in Dogwood Cove. Mila was her childhood best friend and immediately brings her into the fold with Serena and Paige. I am looking forward to getting to spending more time with them in the next books.
Fair warning, after reading this book, you will crave scones, muffins, and s'mores. And for a lover of sweets, I was not sorry about this.
If you are looking for a heartwarming, summer read set in small-town Vancouver Island with a seriously swoony hero, then one-click this book.
*An advanced copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I was immediately smitten with Summer and Ethan. They had easy chemistry and fun flirtation that had me smiling throughout the book.
Your heart breaks for Summer as she discovers the truth about her parents. But the way she handles returning to Dogwood Cove and the inheritance of Oceanside Resort has you admiring her fortitude.
Ethan knows how to bring the swoon. From his flirty comments to his instinctive need to help Summer, he is a dreamboat. I was twitter-patted when he insisted on taking Summer on a date before taking their chemistry to the bedroom.
I am seriously crushing on the girl gang that Summer finds in Dogwood Cove. Mila was her childhood best friend and immediately brings her into the fold with Serena and Paige. I am looking forward to getting to spending more time with them in the next books.
Fair warning, after reading this book, you will crave scones, muffins, and s'mores. And for a lover of sweets, I was not sorry about this.
If you are looking for a heartwarming, summer read set in small-town Vancouver Island with a seriously swoony hero, then one-click this book.
*An advanced copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2022
Book received in return of an honest review, all thoughts are my own.
Wow Julia you have really knocked it out the park with this book! This is now officially my favourite book that you have ever released, and I have read them all.
Love loved LOVED this sweet but super hot story a lot!! I love a friends to lovers, I love a brothers/sisters best friend so fling in a small town romance and I am hooked!
I started this book when I couldn’t sleep and quickly devoured just over 40% in one go, I would of loved to have kept reading but my blooming eyes are traitors!
Fabulous couple in this book, I loved Summer and Ethan so much together, they had a strong connection and a bucketful of chemistry together.
Loved this small town so much, the setting and the inhabitants just made for a beautiful place to call home.
Amazing storyline, it really kept me hooked and I can not wait to read book 2.
Thank you so so much ❤️
Wow Julia you have really knocked it out the park with this book! This is now officially my favourite book that you have ever released, and I have read them all.
Love loved LOVED this sweet but super hot story a lot!! I love a friends to lovers, I love a brothers/sisters best friend so fling in a small town romance and I am hooked!
I started this book when I couldn’t sleep and quickly devoured just over 40% in one go, I would of loved to have kept reading but my blooming eyes are traitors!
Fabulous couple in this book, I loved Summer and Ethan so much together, they had a strong connection and a bucketful of chemistry together.
Loved this small town so much, the setting and the inhabitants just made for a beautiful place to call home.
Amazing storyline, it really kept me hooked and I can not wait to read book 2.
Thank you so so much ❤️
September 9, 2021
Summer returns to her small hometown after being away for 18 years. While I wasn't away for 18 years, the feeling of returning back to your small town, hometown, is like no other, full of mixed emotions. Especially when a young love is involved. Julia Jarrett perfectly captured these emotions and displayed them beautifully. I couldn't help but fall in love with both Summer and Ethan, and of course Mila! There was the perfect amount of tasteful steam (aka its steamy and not cringey). The only negative I have to say here, is I found the conflict in this novel a little lack-luster, however even as I say that, I feel like I would have reacted similar to how Summer handled the situation and in the same dramatic fashion. It felt real, like something that would actually happen in a real life relationship/situation which isn't always the case in fiction novels. I can't wait for more Dogwood Cove stories! This book is the definition of "Hallmark After Dark" - which is essentially perfection.
June 5, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and this review is my own honest opinion.
First up let me tell you how excited I was to read and find out that this book is set on Vancouver Island! Literally my favourite place on earth. It was so good to be emerged in the island where. COVID has stopped me travelling there,
This book is one sweet, steamy romance. When Summer has to go back to her childhood home she discovers more than she bargained for.
Slotting right back in to her place with her old friends from 20 years ago was so lovely. They made the sadness of her unexpected return bearable.
Then there’s Ethan, the gorgeous handsome man and older brother of her best friend! I loved how he wanted to romance Summer first, but then the sex was hottttttt!
This book was not only a lovely light read but it did have the added angst too.
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend.
First up let me tell you how excited I was to read and find out that this book is set on Vancouver Island! Literally my favourite place on earth. It was so good to be emerged in the island where. COVID has stopped me travelling there,
This book is one sweet, steamy romance. When Summer has to go back to her childhood home she discovers more than she bargained for.
Slotting right back in to her place with her old friends from 20 years ago was so lovely. They made the sadness of her unexpected return bearable.
Then there’s Ethan, the gorgeous handsome man and older brother of her best friend! I loved how he wanted to romance Summer first, but then the sex was hottttttt!
This book was not only a lovely light read but it did have the added angst too.
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend.
June 6, 2021
Summer's parents divorced when she was little and she was raised by her Mom who had nothing good to say about their town or her Dad so they moved away. Twenty years later she is contacted and given a letter from a lawyer in reference to her now deceased Father so she goes home to Dogwood Cove.
Ethan Monroe, the brother of her childhood bestie, Mila, is now the Mayor of the town and she runs the bakery. Both are happy to see her and want her to move back to the town.
Ethan and Summer have a major attraction to each other but she has some trust issues thanks to her Mom. Can she get past all of this and find happiness? Can moving back to her hometown really be as good as it feels?
4 stars
Ethan Monroe, the brother of her childhood bestie, Mila, is now the Mayor of the town and she runs the bakery. Both are happy to see her and want her to move back to the town.
Ethan and Summer have a major attraction to each other but she has some trust issues thanks to her Mom. Can she get past all of this and find happiness? Can moving back to her hometown really be as good as it feels?
4 stars
July 27, 2021
"I've known you my entire life. And I plan on loving you for the rest of it."
Ethan Monroe is so sweet and down-to-earth, and when it comes to Summer, he is protective and downright sexy. This book has all the feels, steam, and amazing characters. It's the kind of romance book that makes you fall in love with love. If you enjoy small town, childhood friends to lovers stories, one-click this one immediately!
Ethan Monroe is so sweet and down-to-earth, and when it comes to Summer, he is protective and downright sexy. This book has all the feels, steam, and amazing characters. It's the kind of romance book that makes you fall in love with love. If you enjoy small town, childhood friends to lovers stories, one-click this one immediately!
Want to read
January 5, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (1/5/2022)! 🎁
June 21, 2021
Thank you to Julia for the gifted ebook ARC!
Earlier this year I read a collection of novellas by Julia and absolutely loved them, so when given the opportunity to read an ARC of the first in this new collection, I was very excited!
Dogwood Cove’s first couple did not disappoint! Summer and Ethan are childhood friends (her best friend is his sister), and I love that dynamic. They had steam, chemistry, and they communicate well (almost all of the time). I also love the smalltown feel of Julia’s books; they all make me want to move to a very small town where I can walk wherever I need to go. Summer spends a good portion of this story living above a bakery. Imagine just going downstairs for coffee every morning, coffee that someone else has prepared for you. Swoon.
Julia’s books are short, steamy, funny, and sweet. They can be devoured quickly, and you’ll always be rooting for the couples to work out. I cannot wait for the second book, and kept looking for clues along the way to find out who the couple will be! Absolutely check this one, or others by this author, out!
Earlier this year I read a collection of novellas by Julia and absolutely loved them, so when given the opportunity to read an ARC of the first in this new collection, I was very excited!
Dogwood Cove’s first couple did not disappoint! Summer and Ethan are childhood friends (her best friend is his sister), and I love that dynamic. They had steam, chemistry, and they communicate well (almost all of the time). I also love the smalltown feel of Julia’s books; they all make me want to move to a very small town where I can walk wherever I need to go. Summer spends a good portion of this story living above a bakery. Imagine just going downstairs for coffee every morning, coffee that someone else has prepared for you. Swoon.
Julia’s books are short, steamy, funny, and sweet. They can be devoured quickly, and you’ll always be rooting for the couples to work out. I cannot wait for the second book, and kept looking for clues along the way to find out who the couple will be! Absolutely check this one, or others by this author, out!
June 21, 2021
I always love the start of a new series – new characters, new relationships, hints at future stories. This new series by Julia is off to a great start. It’s a small town romance with an array of varied characters that I loved and throughout the book Julia conveyed the closeness and camaraderie of small town life.
Circumstances lead Summer to return to Dogwood Cove after many years away. She easily falls back into her friendship with her childhood friend Mila. Her feelings and reaction to Mila’s brother Ethan are definitely not PG! These two have off the charts chemistry. Summer is a strong, sassy, sexy heroine – really likable and easy to relate to. Ethan is a sexy, dirty-talking alpha – he falls quickly for Summer, but his past could be a stumbling block to their HEA.
This really is a sweet, super heated, engaging romance. Advanced copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Circumstances lead Summer to return to Dogwood Cove after many years away. She easily falls back into her friendship with her childhood friend Mila. Her feelings and reaction to Mila’s brother Ethan are definitely not PG! These two have off the charts chemistry. Summer is a strong, sassy, sexy heroine – really likable and easy to relate to. Ethan is a sexy, dirty-talking alpha – he falls quickly for Summer, but his past could be a stumbling block to their HEA.
This really is a sweet, super heated, engaging romance. Advanced copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2021
This was my first Julia Jarrett novel and I am so happy to have found a new author that I will be binging all of her stories this summer.
This was an emotional story that had me in all the feels right from the very start. It had some serious emotional background that needed to be worked through by Summer and one big mistake was made by Ethan. They had to work for their HEA and I found myself invested in them getting that HEA from the very beginning of the book. The characters were adorable and flawed in the sweetest ways. I love seeing them grow and the angst that builds with sweet slow burns like this.
Always and Forever is one that needs to be added to your TBR and read as soon as you can!
I am looking forward to future stories int he Dogwood Cove series.
This was an emotional story that had me in all the feels right from the very start. It had some serious emotional background that needed to be worked through by Summer and one big mistake was made by Ethan. They had to work for their HEA and I found myself invested in them getting that HEA from the very beginning of the book. The characters were adorable and flawed in the sweetest ways. I love seeing them grow and the angst that builds with sweet slow burns like this.
Always and Forever is one that needs to be added to your TBR and read as soon as you can!
I am looking forward to future stories int he Dogwood Cove series.
October 1, 2024
I read this book because I am trying to read as many authors as I can who are attending BB4E next year in Vancouver. At first I had really high hopes for this one but I just ended up finding it a little bit too cheesy for me, like sappy romance. I don't really respond as well to the super syrupy stuff - it's a me thing, not the authors fault. .I was really excited when my city (Victoria) was mentioned in this series as it was pretty obvious dogwood cove seemed like a small town in BC, so I was happy when Victoria was mentioned - I'm always a sucker for that haha.
This is a very short and sweet straight forward romance with minimal conflict. The supporting characters are fine but not overly built out but you can't really expect much in a book of this length (200ish pgs). Overall it was a nice read that I burned through in a half day.
This is a very short and sweet straight forward romance with minimal conflict. The supporting characters are fine but not overly built out but you can't really expect much in a book of this length (200ish pgs). Overall it was a nice read that I burned through in a half day.
June 22, 2021
Always and Forever is the first book in Julia’s new ( Dogwood Cove Series ) As per usual with every book Julia writes , it was just truly awesome .I was hooked from from the very beginning until the very end .. I fell completely in love with summer and Ethan from the very beginning, what a sweet couple . One of my favorite things about this story was seeing their relationship grow throughout the book .if you are looking for a romance with wonderful characters a great story, steam and lots of emotion this is the book for you !!! I literally read it In a few hours .
June 20, 2021
I was so excited when I received this new series as an ARC I waited till I was on a plane so I would’ve be interrupted. I devoured this book.
Childhood friends who were pulled apart and brought back together for years later just as Summer was trying to figure out where she fit and where her home was. She soon realizes that home doesn’t necessary need be a place but a person or people you surround yourself with.
I loved everything about Ethan and Summers relationship. It had moments of steam and sweetness that were perfectly spread out. What I loved most about this story was Summer discovering who she was and where she belonged.
I can not wait for book 2!
Childhood friends who were pulled apart and brought back together for years later just as Summer was trying to figure out where she fit and where her home was. She soon realizes that home doesn’t necessary need be a place but a person or people you surround yourself with.
I loved everything about Ethan and Summers relationship. It had moments of steam and sweetness that were perfectly spread out. What I loved most about this story was Summer discovering who she was and where she belonged.
I can not wait for book 2!
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