The Real Mr. Right in Good Hope

Good Hope #16

by Cindy Kirk

Will the real Mr. Right step forward?

Free-spirited Oaklee Marshall loves living life on her own terms. She once thought she’d found Mr. Right but realizes now he was oh-so-wrong for her.

Oaklee’s joie de vivre and larger-than-life personality captured Isaak Cochran’s attention from his first day in Good Hope. Having grown up in chaos, tradition and stability are important to him. Still, there’s something about Oaklee he can’t resist.

An impulsive bet to walk in the other’s shoes for a week propels each into an unfamiliar world. Will the experience confirm they are as different as night and day? Or will it put them on the path to true love?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 11, 2021

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author Cindy Kirk is a Booksellers' Best Award Winner, a National Readers' Choice Awards finalist, and a Publishers Weekly bestselling author. Cindy launched her Good Hope series with a bang. Christmas in Good Hope hit #1 on the Amazon bestseller list for both Contemporary Romance and Women's Fiction.

A lifelong Nebraska resident, Cindy started writing after taking a class at a local community college. An incurable romantic, Cindy loves seeing her characters grow and learn from their mistakes and, in the process, achieve a happy ending.

Someone once told Cindy that to know a writer you just have to read what she's written; she hopes that once you read her books you can tell she is an eternal optimist, one who truly believes in the power of love. She invites you to kick off your shoes, pick up one of her books, and get to know her.

Cindy and her high school sweetheart husband live on an acreage with their two dogs.

Reviews

[Yaritza Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for Oaklee's story and I have to say this is an amazing story. It is romantic, lovely and fun to read. Oaklee and Isaak are amazing. I don't want to spoil anything so all I will say this is must read. I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Susan Gorman]

Oaklee Marshall caught my attention when she landed on her brother’s door step in A Match Made in Good Hope. I have been patiently waiting for matchmaker Gladys Berthhof to find Oaklee’s Mr. Right!!
Cindy Kirk writes a very romantic, thought provoking story for Oaklee Marshall and Isaak Cochrane. I was engaged in their journey from the first page of the book – the characters resonated with me. Cindy Kirk has taken Oaklee and immersed her into the Good Hope community. Oaklee is happiest when she is helping others. She runs errands for her friends at the senior center, helps out with community events and assists Gladys, Ruby and Katherine with their matchmaking schemes. Oaklee may not have a traditional job or career path but her enthusiasm and positive attitude bring joy to the Good Hope Community.
A job with Good Hope Outfitters brought Isaak Cochrane to Good Hope. His love for the outdoors; sailing, fishing, snowshoeing and his genuine rapport with customers make this job a perfect fit for him. I loved that Isaak was drawn to the small town feel and traditions of Good Hope something he had in common with Oaklee.
Loved the chemistry between Oaklee and Isaak, their back and forth banter the author’s entertaining twist on the friends to lover’s romance. Oaklee dares Isaak to live the Oaklee life for one week and she’d would reciprocate. Isaak surprised Oaklee because he was open to new experiences while Oaklee’s people skills and positive attitude contributed to the success of Good Hope Outfitters.
Cindy Kirk has hit a grand slam with The Real Mr. Right—it’s a heartwarming, romantic story filled with laughter and drama! I have been waiting for Oaklee’s story for several books—and I absolutely loved each page of this novel! Can’t wait for the next Good Hope book!

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've liked Oaklee and her zest-filled approach to life, and it was great to finally read her happily-ever-after.
Oaklee likes to live by her impulses. She certainly keeps busy with lots of part time jobs, and she's responsible, but she also doesn't want anything to tie her down. Isaak has routines and traditions. However, they are attracted to each other, and enjoy their time together. So they decide to live life in each others shoes.

Things, of course, get in the way - such as expectations and Oaklee's toxic parents. But what I liked the most about this book was Oaklee's approach to life, and her joie de vivre.

Thanks to the publisher and author for letting me read a copy!

[Megan Paholke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been patiently waiting for Oaklee’s story and it didn’t disappoint. It was worth the wait to watch not only Oaklee grow as a young lady in the previous books but for her to find her happily ever after. I highly recommend yet another wonder addition to the Good Hope series.

I received an arc from the publisher and voluntarily read it

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting to see when Oaklee got her match. Oaklee has always been a busy girl. Helping out wherever, and whoever. Oaklee and Isaak get partnered up with trying to help with the upcoming 4th of July celebrations.
Oaklee and Isaak both have ways different ways of grabbing ahold of life. When they make a bet with the other, and see who can live each other's way of life for a week. They both learn alot about each other. They have Amazing chemistry together and hit it off.
That is until Oaklee's argument with her father, that gets Isaak in the middle and makes Oaklee re-think her thoughts. She starts to believe that Isaak is just like her dad. Can Isaak show Oaklee he's not her father. Will Oaklee give into tradition, or find out there is a way to make her own future?

"I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it."

[Camiba · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it. Finally, Oaklee’s story has come to life! If you’re a fan of the Good Hope series, you know what I mean. I love the relationship Oaklee builds with Isaak and how they balance out each other. I also enjoyed how Isaak supported Oaklee when she had to deal with her unsavory parents. Isaak and Oaklee have a sweet, honest relationship that allows them to love who the other is, without any pretense. Don’t skip out on reading the latest in the Good Hope collection.

[Gillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Oaklee made her first appearance back in Dan and Katie Ruth's story I was immediately taken by her character. There was definitely more to her story and I couldn't wait to find out where Oaklee was going to end up.
Oaklee has been involved in several stories and we've watched her as a background character grow from a young woman looking to break out and be different to a valued member of the Good Hope community. Of course when Glady and her team of matchmakers are near Oaklee is never too far away. Oaklee is probably one of the biggest side characters who's done the most growing throughout all of these books. The moment she met Ethan Shaw I was so sure I knew where their stories were going. But that was not the case; Oaklee has always been on course for bigger and better things. In our last trip to Good Hope we found Oaklee pining for Ethan. Through the story we soon realize how different they are and no matter how much Oaklee is mad at Glady or Ethan’s choice of a girlfriend, she finally understands that they are not meant for each other.

We find ourselves back in Good Hope just before 4th of July. Summer in Good Hope is always amazing.
Oaklee's parents have always assumed she needed to be a certain way fit to a certain mold and that wasn't Oaklee. In this book we finally get to meet Oaklee's parents and understand her background. In so doing so we end up knowing much more about Oaklee. When Oaklee finds out that her parents are in town for an extended stay to visit with her brother Dan and sister-in-law and to consider moving to Good Hope, Oaklee is shattered.
Oaklee makes a very adult decision and decides that she will be cordial and deal with her parents accordingly and not disturb her life in Good Hope or upset her brother and sister-in-law.
Oaklee has joined the 4th of July committee and finds herself working with Isaac (The cute guy she couldn't help but kiss on New Year's Eve). Oaklee might tell people she doesn't think about Issac or their kiss, but that isn’t true at all.
Isaac is friends with Anders Cross and he's here helping Anders grow his outdoor adventure store with sailing and fishing excursions. Isaac grew up in a small town in Alaska with a family that was anything but traditional and normal. Isaac fled Alaska as soon as he could roaming the countryside looking for a place to call home. Until Isaac came to Good Hope he didn't know what he'd been looking for but he found it. Issac found a town steeped in tradition and family and volunteerism. It was everything he had looked for and was always missing from his life.
Oaklee proposes a baking contest for the 4th of July week celebration. While Gladys is interested, she wants more information and research on adding this to their traditional 4th of July events. Oaklee is so sure she's found a winning idea she's determined to put her all into it. When she and Isaac have a small dispute about traditional versus trying something new; they place a bet to literally walk a mile in each other's shoes for one week. Isaac promises that if he lives the Oaklee lifestyle for a week and she lives the Isaac lifestyle he will support Oaklee’s idea to add a baking contest to 4th of July.
On the surface Issac and Oaklee look so different, but they soon love that they have much more in common under the surface.
While Oaklee’s parent’s cause issues and unstead seas in her life, Issac is there to help her find safe haven and ride out the storm. The two of them fall into an easy pattern, but when Issac starts realizing he might love and want a more of a traditional life with Oaklee their happiness is upended. Oaklee sees what her parents have and what they put her through and can’t imagine just marrying someone and living a traditional life. This is all Isacc has longed for. Can these two find their common ground around? Will they both finally be able to see that they would rather be together than apart?
Oaklee and Issac’s story is wonderful and one of my top 5 Good Hope stories and one I have been waiting for. This is not the end of their story and I can’t wait to see where these two end up next. I feel like I could keep going… but my best advice is get comfortable and be ready for an amazing story filled with some of our new favorite characters, traditions and of course a wedding. Glady is up to her old trick and so much fun to watch. I love these characters and love to see Dan and Katie Ruth and how their marriage has changed and what the future has in store for them.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oaklee is a young lady who is absolutely the life of the party, even when there is no party. She has 3 jobs around the small town of Good Hope. Everything she does is to make the lives of others, more fun, easier and generally better.

Isaak works for an outdoor company. He takes people fishing and sailing. In general, he is a perfect man if someone needs to have fun and be safe outdoors.

Oaklee and Isaak met on New Years Eve when they had an earth moving kiss. Since then, the two of them have had no contact. But, then they are both asked to serve on the committee for Good Hope’s 4th of July celebration.

Both of these people are smart, kind and thoughtful. Each of them have had a childhood which was much less than ideal. But, they have become successful adults.

Isaak has figured out how to come to terms with his history. He has created a new attitude for himself. He knows that for him, tradition and organization are important for his peace of mind.

Oaklee is still fighting the childhood battles within herself. She is spontaneous and wants to stay that way. She believes that doing “whatever” is what gives her happiness and the feeling that her life is good. She also believes that as long as she can remain spontaneous, she is in control of her future. Tradition is not in her vocabulary.

Oaklee and Isaak work out a bet which will have each of them live a week in the other’s shoes. They will see the world from new eyes.

These two people are interesting characters. I was not a huge fan of Oaklee. I felt that in order to be her own person, she was not always willing to actually listen to Isaak. And she spent a great deal of time telling people that she and Isaak were not a couple. No one believes that.

Eventually, the two of them find common ground and build a warm and loving relationship.

Good Hope is populated by wonderful people who care for one another. Oaklee’s brother and sister-in-law are there for her every day of her life. And she is there to support them in return. Isaak is still seeking the sense of truly being among close friends.

Ms. Kirk is a wonderful storyteller. This is part of a long running series. But, in spite of that, the book works as a stand alone read. Past events and characters are introduced with explanations. I would suggest that enjoyment is much larger if one has read at least some of the past books.

I received this book from the publisher in the hope that I would write a fair and honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

[George · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, number 17 in the Good Hope series, is the story of Oaklee Marshall and Isaak Cochran. Oaklee is one of the most memorable characters in Good Hope, first introduced in A Match Made in Good Hope (#9), a book that introduces Oaklee’s brother Dan and Katie Ruth Crewes. Oaklee is a free spirit, at odds with her strait-laced parents, but understood by her brother Dan, a local minister. Oaklee is pals with Gladys and her matchmaking crew of seniors. Oaklee has appeared in several previous novels, and in the previous Good Hope novel which focused on Ethan Shaw and newcomer Gianna Ricci, Oaklee was determined that Ethan Shaw was destined for herself. The current novel almost immediately follows the previous Ethan/Gianna novel.

In the current novel, Isaak is a newcomer to Good Hope, and because of his unfavorable family life growing up, loves tradition and stability. Oaklee despised tradition and stability, yet amazingly both find the other attractive. Events become interesting when Oaklee challenges Isaak to live an “Oaklee week” focusing on unpredictability and embracing change. Isaak then challenges Oaklee to live an “Isaak week”. Both do an admirable job living the other person’s week, and the close contact brings them closer as a couple.

As the story progresses, Oaklee and Dan’s parents come for a visit, with the possibility of both parents moving to Good Hope. The father is especially unlikeable, treating Oaklee atrociously, and Dan and his wife Katie Ruth not much better. Throw in a bit of Gladys’s matchmaking and her vague prediction as fortune-teller Madame Gitana, and a fine mess develops.

The interfering father sucks Isaak into the drama, leading Oaklee to give up on Isaak, seeing Isaac as another version of her father. Can Isaak change Oaklee’s view of Isaak, and can Isaac embrace Oaklee’s abhorrence of tradition and stability?

I loved this Good Hope story. Oaklee has been a memorable character, and the growing mutual attraction with Isaac feels real. The showdown with her father had me cheering. Highly recommended!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is my favourite of all the Good Hope books. It starts with Oaklee and Isaak attending a committee meeting at Book & Cup for the fourth of July celebrations, various things are discussed including maybe having a baking competition. Ethan hands the relationship cards over to Gladys after Oaklee and Isaak leave. From outside Oaklee sees that Gladys hasn't left after the meeting is over and sets her suspicions going. What she doesn't know is that Gladys is going to pick and ask the questions from the cards.

Isaak asks Oaklee if she would like to go sailing with him and she agrees. I love the banter between these two they certainly have a lot of chemistry and Oaklee is discovering how nice a guy Isaak is after avoiding him for the past 6 months. They have very different upbringings and Isaak,s life lacked stability so he's looking for a traditional relationship, Oaklee has always had a difficult relationship with her parents, because she refused to conform.
Oaklee challenges Isaak to live her life for a week and Oaklee agrees to live his life for a week, whoever won the bet would either be Isaak's bat girl for the vintage baseball game or support Oaklees baking competition and help her execute it
Oaklee discovers that Katie-Ruth and Dan are pregnant and her parents are coming to stay and may move to Good Hope.
Isaak embraces living the Oaklee life, the chemistry between them only deepens. Oaklee embraces the Isaak life and goes as far as dying her hair brown to be more traditional. Her parents see this as a sign that she's growing up and tell her they will pay for her to go back to college. Oaklee declines much to her father's disgust, he says some very hurtful things, and leads her to believe that Isaak agrees with him. This leaves Oaklee reeling and she is no longer sure that Isaak is the man for her.
Without giving the ending away, I recommend you read it yourself.
I received a free ARC from the publisher and am leaving my review

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since the moment Oaklee arrived in Good Hope, I have loved her free spirit and impulsiveness. Her colorful personality immediately fit right in with Gladys and her gang of matchmakers. Oaklee first met Isaak at the New Year's Eve party where they exchanged a kiss. They went their separate ways and haven't really run into each other until the volunteer meeting to help organize the festivities for the Independence Day festivities in Good Hope.
During the meeting, Oaklee introduces a baking contest as a new activity to be introduced at the festivities. Isaak challenges her saying that traditions should be kept instead of her trying to change everything. Gladys and the gang think Oaklee's idea may work; however, they need more information to decide if they should add it to the week long celebration.
In Gladys's infinite wisdom, she asks Isaak to work with Oaklee to decide if this idea is a good one or not. Oaklee and Isaak are to present their findings to the group at the next board meeting. What ensues over the next few weeks is a love story to end all love stories.
Oaklee and Isaak decide the best way to determine who is right is to walk a week in each other's shoes. Isaak will spend a week with Oaklee being free-spirited and whimsical. Then, Oaklee must spend a week following Isaak's structured lifestyle.
During the two weeks, both Isaak and Oaklee must deal with their past and delve into why they both prefer their lifestyle. Oaklee's domineering parents caused her to develop an escape mechanism where she embraced carefree living. Isaak, on the other hand, developed a very structured life to deal with his parent's emotional rollercoaster type relationship where his dad would leave after a fight and then come back days or weeks later. Oaklee finds out a little structure can be a good thing. Isaak also decided that a little whimsy in your life can be a good thing.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Susan Roncevich · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great love story set in the town of Good Hope, Wisconsin. I enjoyed the warm, cozy escape of the latest in this series.

Oaklee Marshall has been in Good Hope for 4 years and has had her share of heartbreak. It was good to have her take center stage and find the relationship that was perfect for her. After having parents that were critical of her all her life, she found happiness in a town that offered traditions and a strong emphasis on home and family. Her brother, Dan Marshall, is a Pastor in Good Hope and has been very supportive and shown her the unconditional love that her parents failed to show her.

Isaak Cochran is a man that Oaklee aptly described as 6 ft. of mouthwatering male. They are both attracted to one another but are just friends. Oaklee feels that he is too traditional and she is a free spirit and a little quirky. However, after agreeing to live each other’s lives for a week, they do find that they have more in common than meets the eyes. Oaklee feels like Isaak really gets her and she could not remember the last time that she felt that way. Isaak tells her that being with her fills him with joy! One thing that they do have in common and that is they valued the same things which are family, friends, being a good neighbor and trying to do the right things.

This was a charming and sweet love story. I do love the cast of friends in this town and how they help one another. I love the romance and how two people seemingly very different and living their lives and then discovering that love does exist and it’s worth the work to invest in each other. Sometimes not easy but definitely a way to true love and happiness!

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am happy to voluntarily review it.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoy reading about Good Hope and all of its residents. I hate to say it, but Oaklee is not one of my favorites and never has been. I do like some aspects of her personality. Her spontaneity, her willingness to help people, and her love of bright colors, be it her hair or her wardrobe. Yet, at the same time, there is something about Oaklee that I find off putting.

I did feel sorry for her because bothered of her parents are awful people. Her father's cruelty was over the top. Her mother's acceptance of his behavior was ridiculous. I kept wondering how she could let anyone treat her children like that.

I liked Isaak. I even liked Isaak and Oaklee together. I did think that she overreacted to what Isaak was trying to say to her. I didn't get the impression that he was trying to force her behavior. I felt more like he was being honest about what he wanted and just wanted her to be open to the possibility. Maybe I misread him.

It was like Isaak acknowledged his screwed up background and recognized how it plays out in his life. Oaklee recognizes her screwed up relationship with her parents, that she attributes mostly to her father, but to me, it she didn't seem to recognize how much that controls some of her decisions.

I feel like Isaak felt as though he had done something wrong when he had only been supportive of Oaklee. I feel like Oaklee spent the entire book trying to change Isaak.

Anyway, I am glad there was a happy ending. I would give this 3.5 stars.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this nook received from the publisher.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oaklee, Pastor Dan's sister, is sort of a Jill-of-all-trades. She realizes she loves event planning. Isaak works at Good Hope Outfitters, he takes people on boat tours around the peninsula. What neither realize is that Gladys is going to match them both up next. She put them against each other to come up with ideas for things to do during the Fourth of July, along with picnics and singles nights at the Ding-a- Ling. Isaak wants traditional items, Oaklee wants to do a baking competition. Gladys has them write down their ideas and present them at their next meeting.
Isaak and Oaklee are thrown together by Gladys, and their meetings turn into overnights in each others beds. Isaak uses Oaklee on a boat tour to show her how much fun it is. She loves working for Isaak, and seeing him at night.
Oaklee and Dan's parents are in town. Their Dad is hypercritical of Oaklee. Hates her outrageous hair colors, the way she dresses, and that she dropped out of college. Isaak tries to stick up for her but nothing works. Their Dad criticizes Katie Ruth, Dan's wife, and Dan tells them to pack their bags. They leave. Isaak tells Oaklee he loves her, wants to marry her and have a family. Oaklee thinks Isaak is like her Dad, wants her to do things his way, but that's not true. Dan talks to Isaak, who then talks to Oaklee. They say three words again, and realize they can make their own future together.
Up next is Together in Good Hope featuring Izzie Deshler, and her ex who ripped her heart out. He is the new doctor in town, and she is painting a mural on the front of his building.

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book through the Goodreads Giveaways program in exchange for my honest review.
This is a fun, frothy summer read, part of a long running series set in the town of Good Hope. The main characters are Oaklee and Izaak. Oaklee is a free spirit, having moved to the town a few years prior but anchored to it through her brother and her love of organizing town events. Izaak is a more recent transplant, seeking a place to stay with a strong sense of community and traditions. This was my introduction to the series and I would definitely seek out more.
Favorite elements:
* the community of Good Hope - Kirk conveys a sense of setting strongly, the town seems charming and welcoming
* supporting characters - after 15 books set in Good Hope, there are a lot of previously introduced characters, it was fun to meet some of them
* I love an opposites attract story!
Not as enjoyable:
* magical realism element - I know that authors have to walk a fine line when writing a series. They need to give enough information to orient a new reader to it without boring those readers who have read the previous books. There was some hinting how a town matriarch has some type of power in the area of romantic entanglements, having to do with the asking of three questions and a psychic ball. I was waiting throughout the entire book to find out what that was all about and when no explanation came I felt . . . cheated. Like everyone else knew the inside joke but me. I would have preferred it to be either left out (this story didn't need it) or fleshed out.

[Maria Carina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oaklee! Definitely one of my favorite characters in Good Hope finally meets her match!

I've always seen Oaklee as the very likely successor to our favorite Good Hope matchmaker. She certainly has the sass and personality for it. She is also BUSY - part time jobs (several of them), helping people, matchmaking, being there as a great sister and friend to everyoe.

I also felt at the back of her extreme busy-ness, Oaklee was hiding some pain from her childhood. Her parents -- UGH pieces of work! I cant believe those people produced such nice children.

Isaak on the other hand, has realized early on in his home and personal life that what he needs is stability. Predictability. Tradition. Routine. He already gets his excitement from his job as an adventure guide. When he goes home at the end of the day, he knows he wants to find comfort in the familiar.

Two wildly disparate people, a fabulous New Year's Eve kiss, Fourth of July festivities and a bet = all the wonderful, fun and funny moments that a Cindy Kirk book always has. There are always life lessons too - what rang true for me with this book is that life is too short to never, ever compromise. Especially when that compromise means one's chance at love and happiness.

It's always great revisiting Good Hope - like a nice summer vacation at a favorite place, filled with friendly faces with interesting stories. I am so glad that I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book, and could not be more than thrilled and willing to submit this review.

[Delsora Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oaklee burst on to the Good Hope scene as an impulsive, and a little bit lost, soul. Young and unsettled as to the direction of her life, she is a colorful character, finding herself amidst the shadow of her brother, a respected minister. Never mind her issues with controlling parents. But when the town’s also colorful elderly matchmaker takes Oaklee under her wing, she finds her niche in Good Hope.

So excited that now, after her appearance in several books in the series, Oaklee is ready for her own chance at a happily-ever-after.

With an everchanging hairdo and clothing, and a myriad of part time jobs and volunteer positions, she is the antitheses of those who want structure and simplicity in their lives. In walks Isaak. Instant attraction isn’t enough. Months later, still attracted to each other, but not understanding the other’s lifestyle, they develop a plan to see if the attraction will lead to long-term. With a little help, as always, from the tight-knit community residents, Oaklee and Isaak might have a chance.

Loved this story. I wasn’t sure Oaklee would ever lean toward commitment, but Kirk found the perfect solution for allowing Oaklee to continue to hold on to her free spirit and still embrace her happily-ever-after. This book is another stand-alone in the Good Hope series. But if you get a chance, it’s so much fun to read the other books.

I was given an advanced copy of this book for a fair and honest review.

[Hippygems · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll start this review by saying that I absolutely love Good Hope, I'd love to live somewhere just like this town. Over the series of books, we have got to know a whole cast of characters and Oaklee has now been part of the town for a while. She's one of my favourite characters, free spirited and not afraid to be different so I was looking forward to reading her story and it didn't disappoint.

In previous books we've found that Oaklee has a difficult and contentious relationship with her rather straitlaced parents. In this book, they aannounce that they are coming to visit Good Hope with the possibility of them moving there for good. It was hard to see how awful her parents were, but I enjoyed seeing Dan (who we've met in other books) stick up for Oaklee.

Of course, this book has lots of romance too. Oaklee and Isaac had a fling on New Years Eve and in this book we get to see their relationship grow after they make a bet to swap lives for a week. Isaac is all about routines and is far more traditional in his outlook than Oaklee, but during the course of the week they come to realise they are more alike than they thought. After Oaklee's disappointment with Ethan, is Isaac the Real Mr Right? You'll have to read the book to find out ;)

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Shental · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming story about opposites and finding balances.

This is Oaklee's and Isaak's story.

Oaklee joined this series back in her brother Dan story. She became a ficture in the community and is a part of many characters lives. She also became an integral part of the matchmaking schemes that Gladys, Katherine and Ruby. She also holds down several jobs.

She's a free spirit that came to her conservative brother's house when she needed help.

Isaak is a newcomer to the storyline. He works at Outfitters being a guide.

Oaklee and Isaak shared an unforgettable kiss on New Year's. But didn't start seeing each other till June timeframe.

Oaklee had had a huge crush on Ethan and wanted to be with him. And because she wasn't meant to be with him, that's why this book is called the Real Mr Right!

This is an opposites attract romance as Oaklee and Isaak are very much opposites. They spend time together learning from each other and how each manages their lives.

This is a friends to lovers romance as Isaak is Oaklee's friend long before they're lovers.

I did enjoy this book. The characters had some realistic issues that many of us have. I didn't think Oaklee's character arc was complete. She had huge issues with her parents. And they weren't completely dealt with.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. Lots of things learned. Definitely worth reading!

[Ann-marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Hope has become a series that I am always excited to go back and visit and look forward to reading about the next newest couple.
We met Isaak in#16 and Oaklee in several books including #16 where she was featured prominently.
Oaklee lives a carefree life where she enjoys not having just one job but several especially the one where she facilitate Karaoke at the local bar in town. Isaak was brought up unconventional and now has his heart set on finding a woman he could love and have a family with. Both Isaak and Oaklee seems to want different things. While being on the fourth of July committee they both decided on a bet where they would work at each others job and live in the other person lifestyle for a week and see how it goes. What follows is both individual seeing that there are not so different after all. Family drama becomes a reality when Oaklee parents come to town to stay with her brother Pastor Dan. Oaklee has to navigate being her true self and not allowing negativity from her parents, and having Isaak accepting that what he wants for her is not what she needs at the moment.
Beautiful addition to this wonderful series. As always I enjoy catching up to past couples and seeing what they are up to.
Was giving an advance copy by the author.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to read Oaklee's story as she has been a favourite Good Hope character. We have met Oaklee in a number of Good Hope books and I wondered what Ms Kirk had in store for her. I wasn't disappointed. Oaklee had been shattered when Ethan and Gianni became a couple but now it was her turn to find her happy ever after although she didn't really know it.

Although Isaak and Oaklee had kissed at New Year, nothing had become of it until they were both asked to sit on the 4th July committee. Even though they both believe the other wants something different, we begin to see that those differences are not so large after all. Oaklee was delightful, full of life but also so caring to the friends around her.

When her parents arrived in Good Hope, I loved how Dan protected Oaklee. I wanted to scream at their parents. Their father really was intolerable!

I love the community that is Good Hope and look forward to reading more! This was a quick, easy and thoroughly enjoyable read and I would recommend that you go back to the very beginning and read all about Good Hope and the people who live there.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Maria Grass · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.
This is the story of Oaklee and Isaak. Oaklee has been a character in most of the Good Hope series since she was introduced and is an absolute joy. She has had a troubled relationship with her parents especially her father and this has been touched upon in pervious stories. Her story with Isaak started with a kiss on New Year’s Eve and sparks ignited but, they tried to ignore the attraction believing they were not compatible and wanting different things from life. When they take on a bet for each of them living the others life for one week they realise that they are not so different. When her parents arrive in Good Hope to stay with her brother and sister-in-law you really get an understanding of how bad her relationship is with them. Her father brings out all her insecurities about how she’s a disappointment to them. Isaak has his own insecurities regarding his own parents and wants a stable life with a wife and children and Oaklee does not see marriage in her future. They have to battle the others vision to finally get their HEA. The book ends with them finally able to compromise and hopefully we’ll see their life progress later in the series.

[Nicole Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it. If you have been reading the Good Hope series, you have been anxiously awaiting the paring of Ms. Oaklee Marshall. Oaklee has been in Good Hope for about 3 years and has fallen in love with this place. Finally a place that accepts her for who she is unlike her parent's home. Her parents expect her to be who they want her to be and that person is nowhere near the actual Oaklee.

Isaak Cochran moved to Good Hope about a year ago and has had an interest in Oaklee since their phenomenal New Year's Eve kiss. Unfortunately for him, Oaklee has been avoiding him since that encounter. The two are brought together on when both are on the committee for Good Hope's Fourth of July festivities. They become closer when they make a bet that allows each to walk in the other's shoes for a week. Isaak's traditional and Oaklee's carefree lifestyle. Can these two find a bridge between these two very different approaches to life?

Don't worry, Good Hope's resident matchmaker is front and center. Gladys has to find a different approach with these two as Oaklee has been involved with most of the matchmaking since she arrived. I loved the way this book played out. So Oaklee. I am so happy Cindy decided to stay true to Oaklee's character. As always, I will be patiently awaiting the next book in this series. Good Hope is my home away from home.

[Julie Eichelberger-Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Real Mr. Right in Good Hope is the sixteenth in the series but can be read as a stand alone story. This is Oakley and Isaak's story of acceptance, compromise and finding the courage to love the differences in each other. Oakley grew up in a very controlling, bullying, hostile environment where she was never good enough. Now she lives a life doing what she wants, helping anyone who needs it and finding happiness wherever she goes. She is not looking for marriage and makes that fact known to Isaak. Isaak grew up in a very loose environment where he felt the lack of connection, so he is looking for stability, tradition, marriage and kids. Although they both have different ideas of what they want life to be, Isaak and Oakley find a connection. They agree to experience each other's life for a week which only serves to strengthen their growing feelings for each other. The story that follows is filled with laughs, a little drama, and a beautiful love story. The characters are relatable, realistic and thoroughly entertaining. I absolutely love this series and cannot wait for the next installment.

I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oaklee Marshall is looking for her Mr. Right. However, she is not looking for a traditional marriage. Isaak Cochran saw his parent's lack of a traditional relationship and no marriage and decides that is what he wants for his future. When the two are on the Fourth of July committee together, they decide to see if Isaak can live like Oaklee for a week - no rules, very relaxed - and then Oaklee must have an Isaak like week - very strict and straightforward. However, the biggest obstacle arrives in the form of Oaklee's parents. Her father is very controlling and domineering to all around him, to the point of getting himself kicked out of Oaklee's brother Dan's house after their father berates Dan's beloved wife, Katie Ruth. Isaak must decide how to navigate his relationship with Oaklee to ensure that they have a future together.

A great return to Good Hope. It is nice to see beloved characters and even some new ones. As with all of the books in Ms. Kirk's Good Hope series, it is nice to see Oaklee and Isaak's happy ending, even if it is not the traditional one that readers of this series expect.

I received an Advanced Readers Copy for honest feedback.

[RCSue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another winner in Good Hope. Oaklee and Isaak are the featured couple in this book. They both had somewhat traumatic childhood and it left them with a few scars. For Oaklee, This means that she is a free spirit. She has part-time jobs, she volunteers, and she dresses a bit wild as she colors her hair. For Isaak, it has made him a traditionalist. Though he is free and easy, he has expectations of a marriage, a home, and a family. Oaklee is not sure that is for her.

With her parents in town, the stress is on her. Her father is very demeaning and puts her down all the time. Isaak knows that she is unsure if she’ll ever get married and have a family, but he finds himself falling in love with her. Oakley believes that he is trying to shape her in the same way her dad tried to. She needs to be accepted as she is. Never to worry, all the Good Hope books have an HEA. I recommend this book for those who like happy, fun, and a little bit of steam.

"I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it."

[Bridgette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an Advanced Reader copy of this book. My suggestion is to find a nice spot by the water with some lemonade and enjoy an afternoon reading about Oaklee and Isaak!

I found this story to be delightful and I really enjoyed learning about Oaklee and why she is such a free spirit. I am glad that Oaklee opened up and found that Isaak was indeed interesting despite the fact that he is more “traditional”. I loved the premise that Oaklee and Isaak would trade spots and see each other in a different light. I found it to be refreshing and thought provoking as to see another person from their perspective instead of making judgments.

Additionally, it also gave some more insight to Pastor Dan and why he wants to protect Oaklee so much. Their father seems to be a tyrant and only wants and sees things his way. They dynamics in that family are very intriguing and I am still interested as to why Dan and Oaklee’s parents behave in such a horrible manner.

I highly recommend this book along with the whole Good Hope series!

[Marcia Perdieu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to see Oaklee’s story come to life in this book! She’s been a part of several books now and I like her a lot!! She has spunk and gumption! She isn’t afraid to befriend anybody and if she sees a need, she fills it! She needs someone in her life that will accept her for who she is and not try to change her. She finds that in Isaak, but it takes a while for her to realize that they have more in common than she thinks. They both have issues from their past that influence how they see their future together. Although we don’t see any of Isaak’s issues, we do see Oaklee’s front and center when her parents come to town. I don’t want to spoil anything, but suffice it to say I was glad to see Oaklee receive the support she needed when she stood up to the bully in her life. I’ll leave you all to speculate who that might be. ;o) I have read every Good Hope book so far and none of them have disappointed! This is no exception! I look forward to more in the future!!

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Anissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oaklee finally gets her story!!

Good Hope is a series that I am always excited for the next book release and look forward to reading about the next newest couple. Book #16 is Oaklee and Isaac's story. Oaklee is re-occurring character in many of the previous books, so although this can be read stand-alone to really grasp all-things Oaklee I suggest you delve into the whole series!

There were many concepts/themes at play in this book for not only the main characters but for the supporting as well; acceptance of yourself, acceptance of other's differences, compromise, standing up for one's self/as other's, and accepting that change is good! Ms. Kirk does a fantastic job of weaving the themes through all of the towns characters. I LOVE each book as Ms. Kirk gives you glimpses into past character's lives and lets the reader in on how they have progressed through the years... and this book didn't disappoint! I truly enjoyed this book for what it was - a great summer day read.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book and am reviewing it voluntarily.

Welcome back to Good Hope!
I really enjoyed reading The Real Mr. Right in Good Hope. Cindy Kirks stories make me want to live there and I feel like the characters are my friends.

This is the story of Oaklee Marshall and Isaak Cochran. Oaklee came to Good Hope years earlier to get away from her criticizing parents. She could do nothing right, work, dress or look. By coming to Good Hope she was able to be herself and was accepted.
Isaak came to Good Hope after leaving Alaska to work in the outdoors and to come to terms with his past.
Both couldn't forget New Year's Eve and how it made them feel, but both knew they were so different that it would never work out between them. They just could never forget that kiss!

Working on the same committee put them together but will that be a good thing?

Read to find out if Oaklee and Isaak can get past their differences to ignite a new relationship or will their differences be their downfall.

Enjoy!
I know I did!