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Blueberry Beach #6
Sweet Afternoons
Willen Hawkins wusste genau, was sie mit ihrem unerwarteten Erbe machen das Indigo Inn in Blueberry Beach renovieren.
Schließlich sind mehr als achtzehn Jahre vergangen, seit sie ihren Abschluss an der Blueberry Beach High gemacht und die Stadt verlassen hatte. Das Leben, das sie sich aufgebaut hat, ist weitaus einsamer als das Leben, das sie sich als Teenager vorgestellt hatte. Aber wenn sie sich neu erfinden und anfangen will, das Leben aufzubauen, das sie sich wünscht, muss sie aufhören zu warten, bis alles perfekt ist, und jetzt beginnen.
Drake Jensen möchte verschwinden.
Dass er in den letzten fünf Jahren zum sexiesten Mann der Welt gewählt wurde, in acht der zehn erfolgreichsten Filme des letzten Jahrzehnts die Hauptrolle spielte und der begehrteste Hauptdarsteller Hollywoods war, hat seine Frau nicht davon abgehalten, mit dem Kindermädchen durchzubrennen, seine Kinder mitzunehmen und alles zu zerstören, was er aufzubauen geglaubt hatte. Sich in einem neu eröffneten Inn zu verstecken, von dem noch niemand gehört hat, und einen Job als Arbeiter anzunehmen, sollte seine Identität geheim halten. Er bleibt nicht. Aber er hatte nicht damit gerechnet, dass die Stadt so unterstützend sein würde, noch dass er sich in eine Frau verlieben würde, die entschlossen ist, ihn zu ihrem Feind zu machen.
Schließlich sind mehr als achtzehn Jahre vergangen, seit sie ihren Abschluss an der Blueberry Beach High gemacht und die Stadt verlassen hatte. Das Leben, das sie sich aufgebaut hat, ist weitaus einsamer als das Leben, das sie sich als Teenager vorgestellt hatte. Aber wenn sie sich neu erfinden und anfangen will, das Leben aufzubauen, das sie sich wünscht, muss sie aufhören zu warten, bis alles perfekt ist, und jetzt beginnen.
Drake Jensen möchte verschwinden.
Dass er in den letzten fünf Jahren zum sexiesten Mann der Welt gewählt wurde, in acht der zehn erfolgreichsten Filme des letzten Jahrzehnts die Hauptrolle spielte und der begehrteste Hauptdarsteller Hollywoods war, hat seine Frau nicht davon abgehalten, mit dem Kindermädchen durchzubrennen, seine Kinder mitzunehmen und alles zu zerstören, was er aufzubauen geglaubt hatte. Sich in einem neu eröffneten Inn zu verstecken, von dem noch niemand gehört hat, und einen Job als Arbeiter anzunehmen, sollte seine Identität geheim halten. Er bleibt nicht. Aber er hatte nicht damit gerechnet, dass die Stadt so unterstützend sein würde, noch dass er sich in eine Frau verlieben würde, die entschlossen ist, ihn zu ihrem Feind zu machen.
141 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 10, 2021
732 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 1, 2021
Another great book in the series!
Willan own the Indigo Inn at Blueberry Beach along with her two high school friends. Drake is a world-famous movie star trying to keep a low profile. While he’s staying at the Inn, he’s been helping around the place. Willan knocks over some paint and tells the “hired help” to clean it up.
Willan has always been self conscious of her appearance, what man would be interested in a woman with extra pounds and simple appearance?
* I received this book for free for my unbiased review.
Willan own the Indigo Inn at Blueberry Beach along with her two high school friends. Drake is a world-famous movie star trying to keep a low profile. While he’s staying at the Inn, he’s been helping around the place. Willan knocks over some paint and tells the “hired help” to clean it up.
Willan has always been self conscious of her appearance, what man would be interested in a woman with extra pounds and simple appearance?
* I received this book for free for my unbiased review.
August 1, 2021
Another wonderful life and love story from Jessie Gussman. Willan is set to accept her flaws and face life with an open spirit and to try be a better person. Drake is hiding from fame in Blueberry Beach when his ex-wife wants him to take their daughters. Will Drake and Willan learn to love each other and their lives and have a family together? A really good story about faith, self confidence, true love and family.
July 31, 2021
Another great story, as usual from Jessie Gussman. Drake and Willen are down to earth characters with real life flaws and concerns. Drake comes a long way from his acting life. Willen has trouble accepting her personal physical flaws. Together they grow. The girls are adorable. This book has a lot of deep insights that really make you think.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
September 4, 2021
Sweet Story
Jessie Gussman hits an out-of-the-park home run with Sweet Afternoons, the sixth Blueberry Beach novel . This is the story of Willan, Leiklyn's high school friend and part owner of the Indigo Inn, an old lakeside manor being renovated into a bed and breakfast. It's coming together under Ethan's supervision, but he needs more help and gladly accepts the offer from a guest named DJ. Little does Ethan know that DJ is actually Hollywood star Drake Jensen, spending time incognito to rest and avoid gold diggers and other sycophants that just want what they can get from him. Willan doesn't recognize him at first, and when she does, she lets her insecurities prevent her from getting close to him, thinking he won't want to be around a plain Jane like her. Little does *she* know that Drake is attracted to her lack of fakeness. She's real, unlike the starved and surgically altered women he sees around Hollywood, and he likes real.
In true Gussman style, Willan and Drake are drawn together by circumstance, in their case the arrival of his two daughters. His ex-wife has run off with the (male) nanny, so he is in need of a new one. Willan, who has never had a family, is drafted for the position. Misunderstandings and cooking lessons ensue, and before long Willan has charmed her charges---and their dad.
But when the girls' mother shows up with a new, handsome "male nanny" for the girls and attempts to move into Drake's summer home in Blueberry Beach, the developing relationship between Drake and Willan is threatened. What will happen? Fans of Gussman's fiction know the answer.
There are two other sweet elements in this story. The decision Myla makes about her unborn baby solves both her quandary and Willan's desire for a child. And a dog who adopts a litter of kittens adds to the cuteness.
I think this is my favorite Blueberry Beach novel. Unlike the previous five, it doesn't revolve around a series issue. None of the main characters face a dead marriage, a terminally ill child, an unplanned pregnancy, cancer, or abortion. The biggest challenge in Sweet Afternoons is William's crippling insecurity about her weight, her looks, and her perfectionism---all of which Drake soothes away with just the right words. Looks like many more sweet afternoons are in store for the Hollywood star and his real nanny!
Jessie Gussman hits an out-of-the-park home run with Sweet Afternoons, the sixth Blueberry Beach novel . This is the story of Willan, Leiklyn's high school friend and part owner of the Indigo Inn, an old lakeside manor being renovated into a bed and breakfast. It's coming together under Ethan's supervision, but he needs more help and gladly accepts the offer from a guest named DJ. Little does Ethan know that DJ is actually Hollywood star Drake Jensen, spending time incognito to rest and avoid gold diggers and other sycophants that just want what they can get from him. Willan doesn't recognize him at first, and when she does, she lets her insecurities prevent her from getting close to him, thinking he won't want to be around a plain Jane like her. Little does *she* know that Drake is attracted to her lack of fakeness. She's real, unlike the starved and surgically altered women he sees around Hollywood, and he likes real.
In true Gussman style, Willan and Drake are drawn together by circumstance, in their case the arrival of his two daughters. His ex-wife has run off with the (male) nanny, so he is in need of a new one. Willan, who has never had a family, is drafted for the position. Misunderstandings and cooking lessons ensue, and before long Willan has charmed her charges---and their dad.
But when the girls' mother shows up with a new, handsome "male nanny" for the girls and attempts to move into Drake's summer home in Blueberry Beach, the developing relationship between Drake and Willan is threatened. What will happen? Fans of Gussman's fiction know the answer.
There are two other sweet elements in this story. The decision Myla makes about her unborn baby solves both her quandary and Willan's desire for a child. And a dog who adopts a litter of kittens adds to the cuteness.
I think this is my favorite Blueberry Beach novel. Unlike the previous five, it doesn't revolve around a series issue. None of the main characters face a dead marriage, a terminally ill child, an unplanned pregnancy, cancer, or abortion. The biggest challenge in Sweet Afternoons is William's crippling insecurity about her weight, her looks, and her perfectionism---all of which Drake soothes away with just the right words. Looks like many more sweet afternoons are in store for the Hollywood star and his real nanny!
August 6, 2021
Each book in this series makes me wish I lived in Blueberry Beach, where everyone knows everyone else and neighbours step up to help each other when needed. The townspeople rely on each other, and encourage and support each other. This book features the sweet love story of Willan and Drake, two people who seem like total opposites, but are really perfect for each other.
Drake may be used to being the centre of attention and fawned over, but this summer at Blueberry Beach has brought about great changes to his life and the lives of his daughters. The scandal of his divorce sent him into hiding and he stopped in Blueberry Beach. He has found peace and personal satisfaction in working with his hands as he helps renovate the Blueberry Inn. In the space of a few days, two things happen that will change his life forever. He meets Willan and his girls come into his care. Being a movie star means shooting on location and being away from his girls, but spending the summer with them makes Drake realize he has his priorities wrong. The kindness and gentle care that Willan shows his daughters touches his heart and helps him to follow her lead and build a deeper connection with them. Coming back to Blueberry Beach has also brought changes for Willan too. She is used to be overlooked and in the background, but now she wants to take part in life, not just be an observer. She has decided to embrace her imperfections, though sometimes her insecurities surface again, especially around Drake and knowing the beautiful people he is accustomed to being around. She never expected to be a nanny for movie star Drake. The summer Willan, Drake and his daughters spend in Blueberry Beach changes them all. Blueberry Beach seems to be a place of self-discovery, renewal and finding love.
Once again Jessie Gussman has given readers a sweet romance with thoughtful points to ponder and to provide inspiration. I can’t wait to revisit Blueberry Beach! I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Drake may be used to being the centre of attention and fawned over, but this summer at Blueberry Beach has brought about great changes to his life and the lives of his daughters. The scandal of his divorce sent him into hiding and he stopped in Blueberry Beach. He has found peace and personal satisfaction in working with his hands as he helps renovate the Blueberry Inn. In the space of a few days, two things happen that will change his life forever. He meets Willan and his girls come into his care. Being a movie star means shooting on location and being away from his girls, but spending the summer with them makes Drake realize he has his priorities wrong. The kindness and gentle care that Willan shows his daughters touches his heart and helps him to follow her lead and build a deeper connection with them. Coming back to Blueberry Beach has also brought changes for Willan too. She is used to be overlooked and in the background, but now she wants to take part in life, not just be an observer. She has decided to embrace her imperfections, though sometimes her insecurities surface again, especially around Drake and knowing the beautiful people he is accustomed to being around. She never expected to be a nanny for movie star Drake. The summer Willan, Drake and his daughters spend in Blueberry Beach changes them all. Blueberry Beach seems to be a place of self-discovery, renewal and finding love.
Once again Jessie Gussman has given readers a sweet romance with thoughtful points to ponder and to provide inspiration. I can’t wait to revisit Blueberry Beach! I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 10, 2021
Sweet Afternoons is a good name for this book. Life has showed Willan trying to be perfect did not work well up till now, so she was going to just be herself and not try to stress over everything when she returned to Blueberry Beach. But what happens when one of the construction men working on the inn is a guest and she figures out he is an actor? And what will she do when Drake's two daughters show up and he asks her to be his nanny? Could this be the chance in her life she had been dreaming of for so long? She falls in love with the two little girls. She is more than happy to do things with the girls to make them feel loved as she can tell they had been ignored by the mama and previous nanny. They came to life like a flower blooming once Willan took them under her wing. Drake too started to change and enjoy being with the girls and Willan of the afternoon and evenings. Drake finally tells Willan she had done magic with his girls and his life. He was falling in love with Willan and he said she was beautiful. She knew she was not Hollywood beautiful and she had worked all her life not to be in her words fat. He told her she was curvy in just the right places and the best part of her was her tender loving heart.
Would Willan's plans to adopt Myla's baby change his love for her or change his mind about wanting to marry her? She had already committed to it before she found out that Drake had feelings for her. Willan knew a new baby and two young girls would take time away from being with Drake as much as he might want. She had made her mind up and it was up to Drake what decision he chose.
Would Willan's plans to adopt Myla's baby change his love for her or change his mind about wanting to marry her? She had already committed to it before she found out that Drake had feelings for her. Willan knew a new baby and two young girls would take time away from being with Drake as much as he might want. She had made her mind up and it was up to Drake what decision he chose.
August 11, 2021
What I really like about this Blueberry Beach Series is that each story highlights real life decisions that are happening every day. The people living in Blueberry Beach are not perfect just forgiven and given an opportunity for a fresh start.
Willen Hawkins grew up in Blueberry Beach and has decided to come back and to become part owner in the
Indigo Inn with her two HS friends. An unexpected inheritance will allow her to help fix up the Inn even as she decides to fix up herself after life didn't turn out as she expected. She had always hoped for a family of her own and coming back to the Beach may open an unexpected opportunity for her to fulfill that dream.
Drake Jensen is an actor in hiding in Blueberry Beach and using the skills he learned in construction to help revive the Indigo Inn. He's been in many of the top movies over the past ten years and he's a much sought after actor but that didn't keep his marriage from falling apart when his wife left him. Now she doesn't want to take care of their two daughters so getting full custody requires him to get a nanny to help him out.
The connection he made with Willen has him hiring her to take care of his girls. Watching them blossom under the caring fun she pours on his children has him wishing for something more.
This story was fun to read and I like the continuation of the stories of past characters from book to book. Looking forward to what is coming next in Blueberry Beach as the author likes to drop small hints in her stories.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
Willen Hawkins grew up in Blueberry Beach and has decided to come back and to become part owner in the
Indigo Inn with her two HS friends. An unexpected inheritance will allow her to help fix up the Inn even as she decides to fix up herself after life didn't turn out as she expected. She had always hoped for a family of her own and coming back to the Beach may open an unexpected opportunity for her to fulfill that dream.
Drake Jensen is an actor in hiding in Blueberry Beach and using the skills he learned in construction to help revive the Indigo Inn. He's been in many of the top movies over the past ten years and he's a much sought after actor but that didn't keep his marriage from falling apart when his wife left him. Now she doesn't want to take care of their two daughters so getting full custody requires him to get a nanny to help him out.
The connection he made with Willen has him hiring her to take care of his girls. Watching them blossom under the caring fun she pours on his children has him wishing for something more.
This story was fun to read and I like the continuation of the stories of past characters from book to book. Looking forward to what is coming next in Blueberry Beach as the author likes to drop small hints in her stories.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
October 12, 2021
Sweet Afternoons is another wonderful story. Willen Hawkins has always tried to be perfect and right. It is a good thing that Leiklyn and Tiffany were Willen's best friends.
Willen has came by chance with an inheritance from her aunt. Now she and her two best friends can tried to restore Blueberry Beach Inn. Willen has also decided to turn a new leaf. She wasn't going to be perfect or be self-righteous.
Drake Jensen has left Hollywood for a brief reprieve of his newly divorced Hollywood wife left for their nanny and abandoned their two daughters. He was going to provided his two daughters a normal life or as normal as possible.
Willen didn't leave a good impression with Drake when she first met him and judged him as a handyman. Willen did came back to to apologize. Willen was also the first to volunteer to babysit his two daughters.
Drake was used to people also asking him for things. Willen is the first that didn't ask him for things. Willen was also there for his daughters which made him admired her more.
Sweet Afternoons is a great story of Willen who always wanted to be perfect. Perfect to know everything and to look perfect which she failed. It also has a great message that being perfect is not everything. And borrowing a line from "Desperate Housewives": "Perfect is so boring."
There is also another lesson from the story. God made us as we are. We don't need to be perfect.
The narrator, Jay Dyess did a wonderful job. I just love his voice and could go on a listening spree.
I was given this audiobook by the author. I have decided to voluntary write an unbiased review for the book. I was not compensated or influenced for writing this review.
Willen has came by chance with an inheritance from her aunt. Now she and her two best friends can tried to restore Blueberry Beach Inn. Willen has also decided to turn a new leaf. She wasn't going to be perfect or be self-righteous.
Drake Jensen has left Hollywood for a brief reprieve of his newly divorced Hollywood wife left for their nanny and abandoned their two daughters. He was going to provided his two daughters a normal life or as normal as possible.
Willen didn't leave a good impression with Drake when she first met him and judged him as a handyman. Willen did came back to to apologize. Willen was also the first to volunteer to babysit his two daughters.
Drake was used to people also asking him for things. Willen is the first that didn't ask him for things. Willen was also there for his daughters which made him admired her more.
Sweet Afternoons is a great story of Willen who always wanted to be perfect. Perfect to know everything and to look perfect which she failed. It also has a great message that being perfect is not everything. And borrowing a line from "Desperate Housewives": "Perfect is so boring."
There is also another lesson from the story. God made us as we are. We don't need to be perfect.
The narrator, Jay Dyess did a wonderful job. I just love his voice and could go on a listening spree.
I was given this audiobook by the author. I have decided to voluntary write an unbiased review for the book. I was not compensated or influenced for writing this review.
July 26, 2023
Willen Hawkins knew exactly what she wanted to do with her unexpected inheritance: use it to fix up the Indigo Inn at Blueberry Beach.
After all, it’s been more than eighteen years since she graduated from Blueberry Beach High and left town.
The life she’s created for herself is far more lonely than the life she’d envisioned for herself as a teen. But if she wants to reinvent herself and start building the life she wants, she has to stop waiting for everything to be perfect and start now.
Drake Jensen wants to disappear.
Being voted the sexiest man alive for the past five years, starring in eight of the top ten highest grossing movies of the last decade and being the most sought-after leading man in Hollywood didn’t keep his wife from running off with the nanny, taking his kids and destroying everything he’d thought he’d been building.
Hiding out at a newly opened inn that no one has heard of before and getting a job as a laborer should keep his identity under wraps.
He’s not staying.
But he hadn’t planned on the town being so supportive nor on falling in love with a woman who is determined to make him her enemy.
Can Willen learn that she doesn’t need to be perfect in order to be loved? Will Drake be able to choose between Hollywood and the new life that could be his?
Books in the Blueberry Beach series:
1. Yesterday's Treasures
2. Tomorrow's Blessings
3. Beautiful Forevers
4. Precious Memories
5. Misty Mornings
6. Sweet Afternoons
7. Magical Twilights
8. Tender Mercies
After all, it’s been more than eighteen years since she graduated from Blueberry Beach High and left town.
The life she’s created for herself is far more lonely than the life she’d envisioned for herself as a teen. But if she wants to reinvent herself and start building the life she wants, she has to stop waiting for everything to be perfect and start now.
Drake Jensen wants to disappear.
Being voted the sexiest man alive for the past five years, starring in eight of the top ten highest grossing movies of the last decade and being the most sought-after leading man in Hollywood didn’t keep his wife from running off with the nanny, taking his kids and destroying everything he’d thought he’d been building.
Hiding out at a newly opened inn that no one has heard of before and getting a job as a laborer should keep his identity under wraps.
He’s not staying.
But he hadn’t planned on the town being so supportive nor on falling in love with a woman who is determined to make him her enemy.
Can Willen learn that she doesn’t need to be perfect in order to be loved? Will Drake be able to choose between Hollywood and the new life that could be his?
Books in the Blueberry Beach series:
1. Yesterday's Treasures
2. Tomorrow's Blessings
3. Beautiful Forevers
4. Precious Memories
5. Misty Mornings
6. Sweet Afternoons
7. Magical Twilights
8. Tender Mercies
August 8, 2021
Perfect love…
Willan has spent her whole life striving for perfection but nothing was ever good enough and now she is alone and even all the money she just inherited can’t buy happiness. Comparing the joy of Leiklyn and Ethan to the obvious dissatisfaction of another married couple Willan makes a tough choice to accept what she cannot change and focus on others instead of herself and all of her flaws.
Drake “DJ” Jensen was happy having a break from all things Hollywood and being just a handyman helping his friends renovate the Indigo Inn. When his ex-wife decided their daughters were interfering with her summer enjoyment, Drake welcomed them but realized he would need a nanny to care for them. Fortunately, one of Leiklyn’s friends and business partners volunteered. Since it was a live-in job, Willan now had a place to stay and Drake could continue helping with the renovation. Drake was impressed with how quickly his daughters accepted her and her easy, accepting attitude. She was not a beauty in the Hollywood sense but Drake only sees the beauty of her spirit and personality that makes everyone and everything around her just a little better.
Jessie Gussman brings the characters to life and pulled me into the story from the first page. She makes life at the Indigo Inn so believable I feel like I could make a reservation. I love this series! I received an advance copy of this book but my review is honest and voluntary.
Willan has spent her whole life striving for perfection but nothing was ever good enough and now she is alone and even all the money she just inherited can’t buy happiness. Comparing the joy of Leiklyn and Ethan to the obvious dissatisfaction of another married couple Willan makes a tough choice to accept what she cannot change and focus on others instead of herself and all of her flaws.
Drake “DJ” Jensen was happy having a break from all things Hollywood and being just a handyman helping his friends renovate the Indigo Inn. When his ex-wife decided their daughters were interfering with her summer enjoyment, Drake welcomed them but realized he would need a nanny to care for them. Fortunately, one of Leiklyn’s friends and business partners volunteered. Since it was a live-in job, Willan now had a place to stay and Drake could continue helping with the renovation. Drake was impressed with how quickly his daughters accepted her and her easy, accepting attitude. She was not a beauty in the Hollywood sense but Drake only sees the beauty of her spirit and personality that makes everyone and everything around her just a little better.
Jessie Gussman brings the characters to life and pulled me into the story from the first page. She makes life at the Indigo Inn so believable I feel like I could make a reservation. I love this series! I received an advance copy of this book but my review is honest and voluntary.
August 9, 2021
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Really enjoyed this book! I am hoping for a TV series. This book is so inspirational, just a peak: is that we hold ourselves back most of the time and that we will never be perfect. We don't have to make people's lives miserable to Have what we want. You can't change other people only yourself.
Such great advice on raising children, also great marriage advice which includes: marriage can help each one give up their selfishness, because that's what it takes to put one another first on a consistent basis. Also, to be kind even when your spouse is unkind, no tit for tat. Sacrifice, Long suffering, keeping your word regardless of how you feel. Such great advice! Can't wait for the next book in the series.
I dedicate this review to my wonderful husband Mike who brings me such happiness and joy and is such evenly yoked in the Lord with me, and has been such a wonderful partner in spreading the good news/3 angels message.
Such great advice on raising children, also great marriage advice which includes: marriage can help each one give up their selfishness, because that's what it takes to put one another first on a consistent basis. Also, to be kind even when your spouse is unkind, no tit for tat. Sacrifice, Long suffering, keeping your word regardless of how you feel. Such great advice! Can't wait for the next book in the series.
I dedicate this review to my wonderful husband Mike who brings me such happiness and joy and is such evenly yoked in the Lord with me, and has been such a wonderful partner in spreading the good news/3 angels message.
October 2, 2021
We are back in Blueberry Beach where two unlike individuals arrive with the intention of taking a step back and reassessing their lives.
Willen is back to the town she left eighteen years ago, at that time wanting to expand her wings and with no desire to return. Deciding to stay at the Indigo Inn where she is part owner, she never expected to meet a man like Drake Jensen. To say that their first meeting was less than stellar, it’s putting it mildly.
Drake Jensen is a Hollywood star whose life has been turned upside down . After his ex runs away with the family nanny and his children, he just wants to hide. What better place than Indigo Inn and “acting” like a blue collar worker.
What will happen when while things seem to be working out, someone from the past comes ready to destroy what’s becoming a happy unit.
Another winner in this series because how can you not fall in love with not only this series , but also with the writings of this talented author.
As always , the narrator does a very good job with the various voices.
Willen is back to the town she left eighteen years ago, at that time wanting to expand her wings and with no desire to return. Deciding to stay at the Indigo Inn where she is part owner, she never expected to meet a man like Drake Jensen. To say that their first meeting was less than stellar, it’s putting it mildly.
Drake Jensen is a Hollywood star whose life has been turned upside down . After his ex runs away with the family nanny and his children, he just wants to hide. What better place than Indigo Inn and “acting” like a blue collar worker.
What will happen when while things seem to be working out, someone from the past comes ready to destroy what’s becoming a happy unit.
Another winner in this series because how can you not fall in love with not only this series , but also with the writings of this talented author.
As always , the narrator does a very good job with the various voices.
August 9, 2021
Loved this story of Willan and Drake. The commitment of the characters and the precocious little girls will steal your heart and touch your soul as this story pans out. Another captivating tale set within the magic of Blueberry Beach. The story grabs you within the first pages and this one doesn't set you loose until the stunning conclusion. Willan is the second of the three young girls that made a pact on graduation to meet again on April 1 - eighteen years later.
Now they are preparing to reopen the Indigo Bay Inn with the wedding of the first of their threesome. The descriptions the author gives in these last two books make it easy to envision the grace and elegance within these walls. An outstanding series with some tough stories about living life that flow through these pages. An excellent read filled with love, God's never ending Grace and second chances.
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
Now they are preparing to reopen the Indigo Bay Inn with the wedding of the first of their threesome. The descriptions the author gives in these last two books make it easy to envision the grace and elegance within these walls. An outstanding series with some tough stories about living life that flow through these pages. An excellent read filled with love, God's never ending Grace and second chances.
I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 2, 2021
Willan has struggled with self image issues and being overweight all her life but has finally come to the realisation that the need for perfection is preventing her from what she most wants in life - a family. D.J. is a Hollywood star who is incognito at Blueberry Beach working as a tradie using the skills he learnt from his father. When D.J.'s ex-wife abandons her children and places them on a plane and texts their dad to pick them up from the airport, D.J. needs a nanny. Willan volunteers to help before she realises who D.J is but struggles to believe that after all the 'perfection' of Hollywood stars around him, that he could ever be attracted to her. What I loved was the reminder that we should treat our family BETTER than we treat strangers, and not take them for granted and that who you are and loving others, matters more than how you look. Add in a cute dog that loves kittens, two cute little girls and a teenage mum to be and you have a touching story with a HEA.
August 11, 2021
Famous, rich, and handsome A-list actor Drake Jensen is hiding from the very public scandal his wife created by leaving him for the nanny. He is working as a handyman renovating an old inn in the small town of Blueberry Beach where he meets Willen, co-owner of the inn. When Drake’s wife gets tired of taking care of their daughters, he drops everything to gladly bring them to his home and Willen offers to be his temporary nanny. It doesn’t take long before it’s a love affair between Willen and the little girls and Drake can’t believe the positive transformation that has taken place in his home. Now he just needs to decide what he wants to do to try to keep Willen in their lives. I loved Willen who was so unassuming and so loving and kind. Great sweet romance! I received an ARC from the author and this voluntary review contains my honest opinions.
December 7, 2021
Willen has been waiting for everything in her life to be perfect but she wasn't happy with where that path was taking her. She decided to get out and make some changes. She received a small inheritance that she is going to use to help fix up the Indigo Inn. When she gets there she meets Drake. I liked the scene with the bucket and the mess all over the floor. A great way to meet someone.
Willen kept thinking that she knew Drake from somewhere but wasn't sure where she knew him from. I listened to this book in audio and as usual Jay and Jessie make an awesome team. Her excellent writing and his awesome narration.
I am loving this series and can't seem to get enough of the Blueberry beach novels. Check it out I think you will enjoy them and if you can listen to them in audio. I think you will be glad that you did.
Willen kept thinking that she knew Drake from somewhere but wasn't sure where she knew him from. I listened to this book in audio and as usual Jay and Jessie make an awesome team. Her excellent writing and his awesome narration.
I am loving this series and can't seem to get enough of the Blueberry beach novels. Check it out I think you will enjoy them and if you can listen to them in audio. I think you will be glad that you did.
August 9, 2021
There's so much love and caring in this book that it makes your heart full to bursting reading about it. Every time you meet another character, you find someone who is motivated by the way their actions will bless someone else, instead of what's best for them.
I love the way Willen and Drake start out as two people who respect each other before any other kind of relationship develops. It shows through all their interactions that follow, and makes their romance kind of unique.
But their romance isn't even the most important thing about this book, in my opinion. There's so much in here about selfless giving, intentional kindness, doing what's right, even when it's hard, and other important values that are often woven into Jessie's books, but are really well done in this one.
I love the way Willen and Drake start out as two people who respect each other before any other kind of relationship develops. It shows through all their interactions that follow, and makes their romance kind of unique.
But their romance isn't even the most important thing about this book, in my opinion. There's so much in here about selfless giving, intentional kindness, doing what's right, even when it's hard, and other important values that are often woven into Jessie's books, but are really well done in this one.
April 18, 2022
This was such a sweet story about an insecure woman who couldn’t believe a famous popular actor could ever fall for her but the famous actor was tired of the superficial Hollywood people. Add in his two sweet and intelligent young daughters and you have a story that’s better than blueberry pie.😋I very much look forward to these books by Jessie Gussman. She knows just when to include the Lord in the picture to make the story Christian based and enough sweet romance to make it lovable! Also, I really enjoy Jay Dyess performances in these books. He has great voice inflections for each of the characters that there is no mistaking who is speaking, even for the little girls! I love it! I highly recommend these stories. I don’t think I will ever get tired of them.
August 3, 2021
A great addition to the Blueberry Beach Series. Willan is determined to become the person she wants to be and not let what she considers her physical flaws get in her way. Drake is taking a break from Hollywood and enjoying the work he’s volunteered to help with on the Indigo Inn. When Drake’s ex drops his girls off to live with him, Willan steps in to help him out. Willan wants a family and after spending time with his girls realizes she can be a great mom. Drake gets to really know his girls and enjoy spending time with them and Willan. Can Willan get past what she sees as her physical flaws and accept the love he offers and build a family together with all of their girls?
August 10, 2021
I have always liked reading a book set in Blueberry Beach. I like the sweet characters with their real life struggles. In this book Willen has struggled with how she had felt about herself in the past and how others see her until she returned to her hometown. I really enjoyed the wisdom in this book a lot. I also liked that Blueberry Beach is a place to heal the heart and soul and a place to find oneself. This was a beautiful love story with warm, realistic characters that touched my heart while I was reading. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
August 14, 2021
Enjoyed Willen and Drake's story. Willen had always wanted a family, but waiting for perfection left her all alone. When Drake found himself in need of a nanny for his daughters, Willen volunteered. Finally Willen got to experience taking care of children, and loved it. Drake becomes more and more enchanted by the relationship between Willen and his daughters. I love the interaction with the little girls. I read this book in a 24 hour period. If you like clean, heartfelt stories, you will enjoy, 'Sweet Afternoons!' I highly recommend. I received this book from the publisher. The thoughts and comments are my own.
October 11, 2021
Forming a Family!
Drake and Willen take over care for his two adopted daughters when their mother decides that they are just too much trouble to take care of. They enjoy the little girls and eventually decide to adopt a third little girl. Unfortunately, when the children's first adopted mother hears about another possible adoption, she tries to get the children she gave away. She is rebuffed by Drake and Willen and finally gives up, but not before she tries to lure Drake back to her bed. Read this book to get all the details.
I enjoyed this book and all the books in this series so far. I hope you enjoy them also.
Drake and Willen take over care for his two adopted daughters when their mother decides that they are just too much trouble to take care of. They enjoy the little girls and eventually decide to adopt a third little girl. Unfortunately, when the children's first adopted mother hears about another possible adoption, she tries to get the children she gave away. She is rebuffed by Drake and Willen and finally gives up, but not before she tries to lure Drake back to her bed. Read this book to get all the details.
I enjoyed this book and all the books in this series so far. I hope you enjoy them also.
March 14, 2022
Drake is a famous actor and in need of a break after his divorce. He heads for Blueberry Beach where he is in disguise so he can relax without people hounding him. He meets Willen who is such a sweetheart but all she sees are her flaws and she can’t seem to get past them. Willen becomes the nanny to Drakes two sweet little girls and love blooms all around. I love the cinnamon toast scene, she makes life fun for these two little ones by including them in everything she does even teaching them how to cook. Jessie Gussman has a way of bringing characters to life and making you fall in love with them. This is such a beautiful story and I highly recommend this book.
December 24, 2025
Jessie's books are edifying. I would say they are also light reads, but she does tackle difficult topics. Bad things happen to the characters or because of their choices, but there is redemption, grace, and forgiveness. She weaves in truths about how we should leave as Christians, which serve as reminders as I listen along.
I've listened to her books on YouTube "Say With Jay." He's a great narrator, even for the women's voices. It's the type of book that you can listen to while doing something else. Any can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend starting the series in order as several connect characters and places.
I've listened to her books on YouTube "Say With Jay." He's a great narrator, even for the women's voices. It's the type of book that you can listen to while doing something else. Any can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend starting the series in order as several connect characters and places.
August 5, 2021
I had an Advance Readers Copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Another heartwarming story in this series by Jessie Gussman. I enjoyed reading Willan and Drake’s story. Drake is a movie star who is working as a contractor and trying to hide out. Willan is part owner in the local inn and has recently come to live in Blueberry Beach. They have issues to work through such as her insecurities and perfectionist tendencies. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it.
August 10, 2021
Blueberry Beach has a positive influence on people
Willan is working on changing herself to not be so “perfect” and to live in the moment. Drake was hiding out from his Hollywood life. They immediately erupted in anger as they met over spilled paint. As they both grew to love the town and beach and worked together could they recognize the true value of the people in their lives? Humorous, wonderful characters and surprises all made this a great book.
Received ARC and this is my honest review.
Willan is working on changing herself to not be so “perfect” and to live in the moment. Drake was hiding out from his Hollywood life. They immediately erupted in anger as they met over spilled paint. As they both grew to love the town and beach and worked together could they recognize the true value of the people in their lives? Humorous, wonderful characters and surprises all made this a great book.
Received ARC and this is my honest review.
August 11, 2021
I am really enjoying this series.
After just finishing a thriller I must say I need this gem to read. This is Willen and Drake's story. I sexy actor playing laborer is not what Willen expected when coming to The Indigo Inn but that is what she got and the first meeting was priceless. I loved this sweet and charming story can love conquer all? This book will answer that question. A great cast of characters and a wonderful piece read that I cannot recommend too highly. I hope you check this one out. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
After just finishing a thriller I must say I need this gem to read. This is Willen and Drake's story. I sexy actor playing laborer is not what Willen expected when coming to The Indigo Inn but that is what she got and the first meeting was priceless. I loved this sweet and charming story can love conquer all? This book will answer that question. A great cast of characters and a wonderful piece read that I cannot recommend too highly. I hope you check this one out. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
August 11, 2021
Sweet Afternoons
This was a wonderful story. Drake is an actor seeking refuge away from the paparazzi after his divorce from the woman who left him for the nanny. He is helping with the renovation of the Inn. Willan is one of the owners of the Inn and has come to help. Drake and Willan get off to a rocky start. When Drake gets custody of his daughters Willan volunteers to become the nanny. They help each other to make a happy home for the girls. What happens when the ex wife returns seeking a reconciliation?
This was a wonderful story. Drake is an actor seeking refuge away from the paparazzi after his divorce from the woman who left him for the nanny. He is helping with the renovation of the Inn. Willan is one of the owners of the Inn and has come to help. Drake and Willan get off to a rocky start. When Drake gets custody of his daughters Willan volunteers to become the nanny. They help each other to make a happy home for the girls. What happens when the ex wife returns seeking a reconciliation?
October 1, 2021
This story is about a woman who is unhappy with the decisions that she has made in the past and so she decides to change her future. She meets a man who needs help with his young children and she agrees to be their nanny. Jessie Gussman writes beautiful, heart-warming, inspirational tales about characters who seem so real. I really enjoy the Blueberry Beach series and I recommend it to others who enjoy this genre. Jay Dyess' narration is tender and moving. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily left this review.
October 1, 2021
I certainly needed the reminders that came through this book. The most important one for me was remembering to speak kindness to my husband like I do to those outside the family. It is so easy to take him for granted & focus on his faults instead of his good deeds. I am amazed that Ms. Gussman writes books that deal with common situations in my life. I love listening to audiobooks more than having to read them. Mr. Dyess is probably my favorite person for that job. I highly recommend this book all the way around. I received a free copy. This is my voluntary opinion.
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