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Mistletoe, Maine #2
Summer on Blackberry Beach
A faux summer fling seemed like the perfect solution . . . until they start falling in love for real.
Teacher Stella Marshall’s summer break has just began, but the gossip is already Luke Keegan’s back in town! Stella’s high school crush is all grown up and smolderingly sexy. She might even consider a fling with the former Navy SEAL, if she hadn’t already sworn off all romantic entanglements. But there isn’t a single thing she can do to stop the rumor mill whispering about her and Luke being together—unless . . .
A showmance ! Luke never thought he’d propose a fake relationship, but it’s the only way to stop the runaway speculation about their love lives. Pretending to date a woman as stunning as Stella is easy. Not actually falling for her is the hard part. Luke isn’t sure he deserves a hometown happy ending, when members of his SEAL team never made it back at all. But there’s real attraction buzzing between him and Stella . . . and he knows she feels it too. Could their faux summer romance lead to true love?
Teacher Stella Marshall’s summer break has just began, but the gossip is already Luke Keegan’s back in town! Stella’s high school crush is all grown up and smolderingly sexy. She might even consider a fling with the former Navy SEAL, if she hadn’t already sworn off all romantic entanglements. But there isn’t a single thing she can do to stop the rumor mill whispering about her and Luke being together—unless . . .
A showmance ! Luke never thought he’d propose a fake relationship, but it’s the only way to stop the runaway speculation about their love lives. Pretending to date a woman as stunning as Stella is easy. Not actually falling for her is the hard part. Luke isn’t sure he deserves a hometown happy ending, when members of his SEAL team never made it back at all. But there’s real attraction buzzing between him and Stella . . . and he knows she feels it too. Could their faux summer romance lead to true love?
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 28, 2022
About the author
Belle Calhoune
101 books441 followersBelle Calhoune writes heartwarming, inspirational romance novels set in small, cozy towns. Married to her college sweetheart and living in southern Connecticut, she is the mother of two girls. Born and raised in Massachusetts, she is one of five children. Growing up across the street from a public library allowed her to become an avid reader who aspired to be a romance writer. When she isn't writing, she enjoys reading, spending time in Cape Cod, traveling and enjoying time with friends and family.
Belle hopes her books will provide readers with inspiration, entertainment and an escape from day to day life.
Belle hopes her books will provide readers with inspiration, entertainment and an escape from day to day life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
June 26, 2022
Review coming soon.
December 12, 2022
This was cute. I loved most of this book and the both Luke & Stella. Such a great story that keeps you interested throughout. Cute, swooning and something you'll enjoy reading! All good vibes
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading the book.
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully reading the book.
July 11, 2022
Which is more dangerous, love or the battlefield? This is what former Navy SEAL Luke Keegan is forced to determine when he realizes that his “showmance” with Stella, a grade school teacher, really get him into deep water. Not only is he falling deep and fast, but Stella cannot deny the fact that she had a crush on him years ago. Perhaps she never lost that crashed. Perhaps faking a relationship in order to quiet the gossipers is not faking it at all.
Not only are Luke and Stella working with their emotions, they both examine past relationships and failures. More than that, Luke is coping with nightmares due to PTSD and survivor’s guilt. Them, there is the fact that Stella’s baggage from a previous bad relationship is very weighing on her. They must navigate the things that are bringing them down in order to find a way to trust their hearts and find a future together.
I loved Tess, Stella’s youngest sister, ten going on thirty. I loved her in book one of this series, No Ordinary Christmas, which was Lucy’s story, the middle sister. Another great supporting character was Miles, Luke’s nephew and one of Stella’s students. Teaching was Stella’s dream job and Miles was one of her favorite students. I really enjoyed the strong bonds between Miles and both Stella and Luke.
This delightful read contained some powerful emotional moments, and made this book a wonderful summer read. The fact that I was able to listen to this book by excellent narrators made a very good story that much better.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/gsEvio49qY0
Not only are Luke and Stella working with their emotions, they both examine past relationships and failures. More than that, Luke is coping with nightmares due to PTSD and survivor’s guilt. Them, there is the fact that Stella’s baggage from a previous bad relationship is very weighing on her. They must navigate the things that are bringing them down in order to find a way to trust their hearts and find a future together.
I loved Tess, Stella’s youngest sister, ten going on thirty. I loved her in book one of this series, No Ordinary Christmas, which was Lucy’s story, the middle sister. Another great supporting character was Miles, Luke’s nephew and one of Stella’s students. Teaching was Stella’s dream job and Miles was one of her favorite students. I really enjoyed the strong bonds between Miles and both Stella and Luke.
This delightful read contained some powerful emotional moments, and made this book a wonderful summer read. The fact that I was able to listen to this book by excellent narrators made a very good story that much better.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/gsEvio49qY0
June 27, 2022
Summer on Blackberry Beach
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romance
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 6/28/22
Author: Belle Calhoune
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Pages: 336
Goodreads Rating: 4.28
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Teacher Stella Marshall’s summer break has just began, but the gossip is already sizzling: Luke Keegan’s back in town! Stella’s high school crush is all grown up and smolderingly sexy. She might even consider a fling with the former Navy SEAL, if she hadn’t already sworn off all romantic entanglements. A showmance! Luke never thought he’d propose a fake relationship, but it’s the only way to stop the runaway speculation about their love lives. Pretending to date a woman as stunning as Stella is easy. Not actually falling for her is the hard part. Luke isn’t sure he deserves a hometown happy ending, when members of his SEAL team never made it back at all. Could their faux summer romance lead to true love?
My Thoughts: I really enjoy fake dating tropes, one of my favorites. Stella has become extremely untrusting of men due to her prior relationships and Luke has prior military baggage that he has not dealt with causing some PTSD, especially that he survived and they did not. The story is told in dual narrative, from Stella and Luke, from their individual perspectives. The characters are well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and just all around fantastic. The author’s writing is complex, intriguing, inventive, and kept me engaged throughout the story. Even though this was part of a series, it is a great standalone. I had no issues keeping up. It would be a great summer beach read. I highly recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romance
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 6/28/22
Author: Belle Calhoune
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Pages: 336
Goodreads Rating: 4.28
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Teacher Stella Marshall’s summer break has just began, but the gossip is already sizzling: Luke Keegan’s back in town! Stella’s high school crush is all grown up and smolderingly sexy. She might even consider a fling with the former Navy SEAL, if she hadn’t already sworn off all romantic entanglements. A showmance! Luke never thought he’d propose a fake relationship, but it’s the only way to stop the runaway speculation about their love lives. Pretending to date a woman as stunning as Stella is easy. Not actually falling for her is the hard part. Luke isn’t sure he deserves a hometown happy ending, when members of his SEAL team never made it back at all. Could their faux summer romance lead to true love?
My Thoughts: I really enjoy fake dating tropes, one of my favorites. Stella has become extremely untrusting of men due to her prior relationships and Luke has prior military baggage that he has not dealt with causing some PTSD, especially that he survived and they did not. The story is told in dual narrative, from Stella and Luke, from their individual perspectives. The characters are well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and just all around fantastic. The author’s writing is complex, intriguing, inventive, and kept me engaged throughout the story. Even though this was part of a series, it is a great standalone. I had no issues keeping up. It would be a great summer beach read. I highly recommend!
July 4, 2022
A feel-good, dual perspective small town romance set on the coast of Maine that picks up where the first book in the series left off and features two Black MCs.
In this story we get to know school teacher Stella who is spending her summer helping her sister get ready for her wedding while also trying to avoid the ex who broke up with her days before their intended wedding.
Enter ex-Navy SEAL Luke Keagan who had returned home after being discharged for medical reasons. He proposes a fauxmance to Stella in order to help escape unwanted attention only to find them both falling in love.
I really loved the small town beachy vibes and the great PTSD and disability rep through Luke’s character. Full of heart and humor, this is a great book to add to your beach bag this summer!
In this story we get to know school teacher Stella who is spending her summer helping her sister get ready for her wedding while also trying to avoid the ex who broke up with her days before their intended wedding.
Enter ex-Navy SEAL Luke Keagan who had returned home after being discharged for medical reasons. He proposes a fauxmance to Stella in order to help escape unwanted attention only to find them both falling in love.
I really loved the small town beachy vibes and the great PTSD and disability rep through Luke’s character. Full of heart and humor, this is a great book to add to your beach bag this summer!
August 29, 2022
4.5 stars
Summer on Blackberry Beach is the standalone second book in Belle Calhoune’s Mistletoe, Maine series. It features Stella Marshall, the oldest sister of Lucy Marshall, the heroine from the first book, No Ordinary Christmas, and Luke Keegan a recently retired hometown Navy SEAL.
It’s been two years since Rafe broke up with Stella a mere two days before their wedding to reconnect, marry, and start a family with his high school sweetheart. During this time, Stella has had to endure pitying looks and multiple attempts to set her up with “eligible” men. Stella, a second-grade teacher, is just looking forward to summer so she can relax and maybe even take a girls' trip.
After an explosion ended his military career, Luke is back home in Mistletoe trying to figure out his next steps. He isn’t prepared for his younger brother Nick to be inundated with multiple calls to have him set Luke up on dates. After rescuing Stella from an epically embarrassing situation, the two decide to pretend to be a couple, in order to keep the well-meaning townfolk of Mistletoe off their backs. As is always the case, a fake relationship produces real feelings.
Stella and Luke are afraid to take the step to becoming a real couple and risk their hearts. But when Stella’s ten-year-old sister Tess, and Luke’s eight-year-old nephew Miles join forces, they have no choice but to face their fears and admit their true feelings. I really loved these two together. They are just what the other needs to put their lives in perspective and learn about themselves.
If you like/love Belle’s Love Inspired books, you are definitely going to love this sweet romance. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, which features Nick, a widowed single father.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Perspective was a funny thing.”
“Life isn’t any fun without surprises.”
“Happiness is something to rejoice about.”
“No one’s life is perfect.”
“Trust your instincts.”
“Love is terrifying and amazing and powerful.”
“I’m a work in progress. I’m not finished. Not by a long shot.”
“With love, anything was possible.”
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Summer on Blackberry Beach is the standalone second book in Belle Calhoune’s Mistletoe, Maine series. It features Stella Marshall, the oldest sister of Lucy Marshall, the heroine from the first book, No Ordinary Christmas, and Luke Keegan a recently retired hometown Navy SEAL.
It’s been two years since Rafe broke up with Stella a mere two days before their wedding to reconnect, marry, and start a family with his high school sweetheart. During this time, Stella has had to endure pitying looks and multiple attempts to set her up with “eligible” men. Stella, a second-grade teacher, is just looking forward to summer so she can relax and maybe even take a girls' trip.
After an explosion ended his military career, Luke is back home in Mistletoe trying to figure out his next steps. He isn’t prepared for his younger brother Nick to be inundated with multiple calls to have him set Luke up on dates. After rescuing Stella from an epically embarrassing situation, the two decide to pretend to be a couple, in order to keep the well-meaning townfolk of Mistletoe off their backs. As is always the case, a fake relationship produces real feelings.
Stella and Luke are afraid to take the step to becoming a real couple and risk their hearts. But when Stella’s ten-year-old sister Tess, and Luke’s eight-year-old nephew Miles join forces, they have no choice but to face their fears and admit their true feelings. I really loved these two together. They are just what the other needs to put their lives in perspective and learn about themselves.
If you like/love Belle’s Love Inspired books, you are definitely going to love this sweet romance. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, which features Nick, a widowed single father.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Perspective was a funny thing.”
“Life isn’t any fun without surprises.”
“Happiness is something to rejoice about.”
“No one’s life is perfect.”
“Trust your instincts.”
“Love is terrifying and amazing and powerful.”
“I’m a work in progress. I’m not finished. Not by a long shot.”
“With love, anything was possible.”
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
June 27, 2022
Get ready because this one will crack your heart wide open. Stella still feels the reverberations of being dumped two years earlier by her jerky ex fiancée who makes snide comments at her expense. Luke, a former Navy SEAL, is seeking absolutions that only can be found from within. To escape the pressure from the nosiest community ever, they start fake dating.
I love the town and the beach setting. I love all the close scenes Luke and Stella. Tess, busybody galore, is a handful. A few of the scenes may send you into a crying cachonany, so have tissues handy.
A tender read for the beach. Hide any tears behind your shades!
Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the advance read.
I love the town and the beach setting. I love all the close scenes Luke and Stella. Tess, busybody galore, is a handful. A few of the scenes may send you into a crying cachonany, so have tissues handy.
A tender read for the beach. Hide any tears behind your shades!
Thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the advance read.
November 14, 2022
Lighthearted, cosy, and cute!
Summer on Blackberry Beach is a tender, feel-good tale that mixes the kind, caring, second-grade teacher Stella, who’s determined to do whatever it takes, even if it means fake dating her high school crush, to prove to the town she’s finally moving on from being jilted by her fiancé, and the sexy, wounded, former Navy Seal Luke who may, at last, have found that special someone that can help him heal from his guilt, grief, and injuries and discover there’s a lot more life still to be had.
The prose is smooth and easy. The characters are friendly, lovable, and sweet. And the plot is an engaging, push-pull tale of family, friendship, tricky situations, playful banter, heartfelt moments, humorous hijinks, self-discovery, happiness, romance, and love.
Overall, Summer on Blackberry Beach is another charming, touching, delightful tale by Calhoune that I thoroughly enjoyed and which, in my opinion, is the perfect choice for anyone who loves a good romcom that has a whole lot of hope, heart, and humour.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Summer on Blackberry Beach is a tender, feel-good tale that mixes the kind, caring, second-grade teacher Stella, who’s determined to do whatever it takes, even if it means fake dating her high school crush, to prove to the town she’s finally moving on from being jilted by her fiancé, and the sexy, wounded, former Navy Seal Luke who may, at last, have found that special someone that can help him heal from his guilt, grief, and injuries and discover there’s a lot more life still to be had.
The prose is smooth and easy. The characters are friendly, lovable, and sweet. And the plot is an engaging, push-pull tale of family, friendship, tricky situations, playful banter, heartfelt moments, humorous hijinks, self-discovery, happiness, romance, and love.
Overall, Summer on Blackberry Beach is another charming, touching, delightful tale by Calhoune that I thoroughly enjoyed and which, in my opinion, is the perfect choice for anyone who loves a good romcom that has a whole lot of hope, heart, and humour.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2022
Thanks Hachette Audio for the gifted book!
I know it’s a good story when I get tears in my eyes at the first chapter 🥹 Belle Calhoune had me feeling warm and cozy as I listened to SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH, the second book in the MISTLETOE, MAINE series. Sometimes you just need a sweet HEA? Or is that just me? (Please tell me it’s not just me!)
Y’all know I love to talk about exceptional narration when an audiobook has it, so we’ll start here. Mela Lee and Tre Hall brought Stella and Luke to life that it felt like I had a movie going on in my ears. And my ears were very, very happy! Mela was already a narrator on my automatic listen list, and now Tre is too!
One of my all-time favorite tropes is the fake relationship trope, and the one hijinks that Stella and Luke get in during theirs made me laugh out loud - total bonus points from me because of that! The two of them think they are being so sly; they have the whole town of Mistletoe all up in their business, so in the end, are they playing the town, or is the town playing them? Oh, did you think I was going to tell you? I’m not; you have to read it to find out 😬
Other things I enjoyed:
•I liked the kids in this book when kids are usually my least favorite aspect of a book.
•Luke’s military PTSD was handled well. For a light-hearted story, it was mixed in tactfully.
This is a sweet, fun stand-alone (yet part of a series) HEA romance that I stand behind, especially if you love fake relationships!
•
Content Warnings: war PTSD
I know it’s a good story when I get tears in my eyes at the first chapter 🥹 Belle Calhoune had me feeling warm and cozy as I listened to SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH, the second book in the MISTLETOE, MAINE series. Sometimes you just need a sweet HEA? Or is that just me? (Please tell me it’s not just me!)
Y’all know I love to talk about exceptional narration when an audiobook has it, so we’ll start here. Mela Lee and Tre Hall brought Stella and Luke to life that it felt like I had a movie going on in my ears. And my ears were very, very happy! Mela was already a narrator on my automatic listen list, and now Tre is too!
One of my all-time favorite tropes is the fake relationship trope, and the one hijinks that Stella and Luke get in during theirs made me laugh out loud - total bonus points from me because of that! The two of them think they are being so sly; they have the whole town of Mistletoe all up in their business, so in the end, are they playing the town, or is the town playing them? Oh, did you think I was going to tell you? I’m not; you have to read it to find out 😬
Other things I enjoyed:
•I liked the kids in this book when kids are usually my least favorite aspect of a book.
•Luke’s military PTSD was handled well. For a light-hearted story, it was mixed in tactfully.
This is a sweet, fun stand-alone (yet part of a series) HEA romance that I stand behind, especially if you love fake relationships!
•
Content Warnings: war PTSD
August 10, 2024
3.8/5 stars
Very cute, small town romance story. It was the classic he was the popular jock in high school while she was the nerd in the grade below, years go by and they reconnect. Fake dating is a great trope in my opinion and it made me smile seeing how Luke and Stella’s feelings developed for each other over time! It was also my first military romance, well ex navy SEAL but I sure enjoyed it 🤭
Very cute, small town romance story. It was the classic he was the popular jock in high school while she was the nerd in the grade below, years go by and they reconnect. Fake dating is a great trope in my opinion and it made me smile seeing how Luke and Stella’s feelings developed for each other over time! It was also my first military romance, well ex navy SEAL but I sure enjoyed it 🤭
June 15, 2022
Stella Marshall was supposed to get married but her fiance broke up with within days of the wedding. Claiming he was in love with his ex. Who he married and had a child with.
Luke Keegan comes back into town after being wounded in the military and the person who Stella had a crush on in high school.
They both decide to have a fake relationship to keep other away and to stop having people set them up on dates.
Stella is not to trusting of men at the moment and Luke has a lot of baggage thinking it is his fault 2 men died on his watch in afghanistan.
These 2 were so funny and you knew they would end up falling for each other but getting to that journey was the fun part. Stella has a sister getting married and Stella is trying to help her with the wedding and then they have an 11 year old sister, turning 30 lol. She is quite a spunky thing and very nosy and gossipy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the book to reveiw.
Luke Keegan comes back into town after being wounded in the military and the person who Stella had a crush on in high school.
They both decide to have a fake relationship to keep other away and to stop having people set them up on dates.
Stella is not to trusting of men at the moment and Luke has a lot of baggage thinking it is his fault 2 men died on his watch in afghanistan.
These 2 were so funny and you knew they would end up falling for each other but getting to that journey was the fun part. Stella has a sister getting married and Stella is trying to help her with the wedding and then they have an 11 year old sister, turning 30 lol. She is quite a spunky thing and very nosy and gossipy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the book to reveiw.
July 7, 2022
SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH by Belle Calhoune is the second book in the Mistletoe, Maine series. It’s the wonderfully crafted story of Stella Marshall and Luke Keegan. As each tries to deal with some horrible events in their recent past, they’ve both coming to the conclusion that romance can’t/won’t be in their future. They would be happy in their singleness if only people would leave them alone!
Stella is a teacher and she’s every bit as excited as her students that summer vacation is about to begin. She’s still trying to get over the devastation of having been dumped by her ex-fiancé just two days before the wedding. All her dreams of a happily ever after with who she thought was the man of her dreams and having a family went right down the drain along with her happiness. She’s put on a brave face, but she’s still suffering. The fact that everyone, including her parents, seem to think that to get over it that she needs to hook up with someone else and keep fixing her up with some of the worse blind dates and connections hasn’t helped how she feels about life and herself. The summer months to pamper herself and not have to answer to anyone is just what she needs – isn’t it?
Luke thought his whole life had been planned out. He loved being a Navy SEAL and had always put his body and mind into being the best SEAL he could be. Then some wrong intel had a mission going badly wrong - a mission he was in charge of and in which two of his men were killed. Badly injured himself and feeling responsible for his men’s death didn’t have him prepared for the service to medically discharge him. What was he to do now? How can he heal in spirit if he can’t forgive himself for their deaths? Can he come back to his hometown, to his brother - who lost his wife in a tragic accident, and to Miles – his nephew, and make a go of civilian life in Mistletoe, Maine?
When Luke walked across the gym floor at assembly to surprise his nephew, the crush Stella had on him in high school still had her heart pumping rapidly. With Miles thinking Miss Marshall was the best teacher ever, it was a natural that Stella and Luke would come face to face. There was an immediate connection between them. One that felt like a true friendship - one where they could talk openly and freely to each other. After women throwing themselves at the Navy SEAL that just arrived in town and Stella being bombarded with date offers, Luke’s idea didn’t take much convincing to get Stella on board with having a showmance. Since the town rumor mill has labeled them as coupon to start with, they would play it up pretending to be a couple and appear in public together in order to get them both taken off the available list. It seemed like a win – win for them both. What do they have to lose?
When their plan seems to be working, it makes them both very happy. However, will that initial spark of attraction grow to become a fiery inferno? Will Stella begin to see that it wasn’t losing Rafe that upset her, but the dream of the perfect life with a wedding, being a couple and starting a family that she was grieving? Can Luke find a place for himself in the civilian life – an occupation where he can continue to help others and contribute to society? Will he give his body the chance to heal by following the doctor’s orders and not keep thinking that he just has to ignore it and push on through? Can he forget his old girlfriend’s words and his past actions to realize he is capable of a long lasting relationship? Will the past keep coming back to haunt them or will some time and distance have them realizing what is really important?
SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH is a fabulous summer read! It’s a story that shows you that instead of looking for love that sometimes it comes to find you – when you least expect it. It will have you wishing for a walk on a beach, that special moment with someone and believing in the happily ever after. Belle Calhoune keeps you turning pages from the beginning to the end as she unfolds her captivating story of overcoming hardships, figuring out that losing Mr. Right who turned out to be all wrong might be the best thing that ever happened, accepting lives bumps while not allowing them to completely detour you, and that true love will find a way. SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH gets my 5 stars for great recommended reading!
Stella is a teacher and she’s every bit as excited as her students that summer vacation is about to begin. She’s still trying to get over the devastation of having been dumped by her ex-fiancé just two days before the wedding. All her dreams of a happily ever after with who she thought was the man of her dreams and having a family went right down the drain along with her happiness. She’s put on a brave face, but she’s still suffering. The fact that everyone, including her parents, seem to think that to get over it that she needs to hook up with someone else and keep fixing her up with some of the worse blind dates and connections hasn’t helped how she feels about life and herself. The summer months to pamper herself and not have to answer to anyone is just what she needs – isn’t it?
Luke thought his whole life had been planned out. He loved being a Navy SEAL and had always put his body and mind into being the best SEAL he could be. Then some wrong intel had a mission going badly wrong - a mission he was in charge of and in which two of his men were killed. Badly injured himself and feeling responsible for his men’s death didn’t have him prepared for the service to medically discharge him. What was he to do now? How can he heal in spirit if he can’t forgive himself for their deaths? Can he come back to his hometown, to his brother - who lost his wife in a tragic accident, and to Miles – his nephew, and make a go of civilian life in Mistletoe, Maine?
When Luke walked across the gym floor at assembly to surprise his nephew, the crush Stella had on him in high school still had her heart pumping rapidly. With Miles thinking Miss Marshall was the best teacher ever, it was a natural that Stella and Luke would come face to face. There was an immediate connection between them. One that felt like a true friendship - one where they could talk openly and freely to each other. After women throwing themselves at the Navy SEAL that just arrived in town and Stella being bombarded with date offers, Luke’s idea didn’t take much convincing to get Stella on board with having a showmance. Since the town rumor mill has labeled them as coupon to start with, they would play it up pretending to be a couple and appear in public together in order to get them both taken off the available list. It seemed like a win – win for them both. What do they have to lose?
When their plan seems to be working, it makes them both very happy. However, will that initial spark of attraction grow to become a fiery inferno? Will Stella begin to see that it wasn’t losing Rafe that upset her, but the dream of the perfect life with a wedding, being a couple and starting a family that she was grieving? Can Luke find a place for himself in the civilian life – an occupation where he can continue to help others and contribute to society? Will he give his body the chance to heal by following the doctor’s orders and not keep thinking that he just has to ignore it and push on through? Can he forget his old girlfriend’s words and his past actions to realize he is capable of a long lasting relationship? Will the past keep coming back to haunt them or will some time and distance have them realizing what is really important?
SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH is a fabulous summer read! It’s a story that shows you that instead of looking for love that sometimes it comes to find you – when you least expect it. It will have you wishing for a walk on a beach, that special moment with someone and believing in the happily ever after. Belle Calhoune keeps you turning pages from the beginning to the end as she unfolds her captivating story of overcoming hardships, figuring out that losing Mr. Right who turned out to be all wrong might be the best thing that ever happened, accepting lives bumps while not allowing them to completely detour you, and that true love will find a way. SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH gets my 5 stars for great recommended reading!
July 18, 2022
Summer on BlackBerry Beach by Belle Calhoune is book #2 in The Mistletoe, Maine series. Stella Marshall has sworn off love after being dumped practically at the altar. Living in a small town isn’t easy when you are the center of gossip. Stella has worked hard to get away from her past. On the last day of school, Miles one of her students has a surprise homecoming with his Navy Seal uncle. None other than Luke Keegan. Stella had a huge crush on him when she was in school. Now he’s come home looking more swoon-worthy than ever. Luke Keegan has only been in town a few days and already he has women calling up his brother Nick asking him to set him up on dates. He has enough to deal with and it has nothing to do with women. He is suffering from survivor’s guilt and some ptsd from his former navy seal days. He starts up a sorta friendship with Stella who also has no interest in dating. He proposes a faux romance. That way the rumor mill will stop. To bad the idea works in theory only. It’s hard to not fall head over heels in love when sparks were already sizzling between them in the first place.
I really loved this book. I got lost completely in this world. I love Mistletoe, Maine and can’t wait to visit it again. It’s such a lovely town. Belle really brings the town alive with all the town characters. It was nice to catch up with Lucy, Tess, and the rest of the crew from the first book. Series are my favorites for that reason. Of course, Belle Calhoune does not disappoint and she takes the time to write an epilogue. Always my favorite part. Though to be honest, I had so many favorite parts in this book. But then this is a spoiler free review, so you are just going to have to read it for yourself. We may actually have a few favorites that are the same. You never know! I love Luke and Stella’s love story. I know you will too. If you haven’t picked up book 1…do! Lucy and Dante are swoon-worthy too! I was given a copy by the author, but my opinions are my very own!
I really loved this book. I got lost completely in this world. I love Mistletoe, Maine and can’t wait to visit it again. It’s such a lovely town. Belle really brings the town alive with all the town characters. It was nice to catch up with Lucy, Tess, and the rest of the crew from the first book. Series are my favorites for that reason. Of course, Belle Calhoune does not disappoint and she takes the time to write an epilogue. Always my favorite part. Though to be honest, I had so many favorite parts in this book. But then this is a spoiler free review, so you are just going to have to read it for yourself. We may actually have a few favorites that are the same. You never know! I love Luke and Stella’s love story. I know you will too. If you haven’t picked up book 1…do! Lucy and Dante are swoon-worthy too! I was given a copy by the author, but my opinions are my very own!
July 17, 2022
Former Navy Seal Luke Keegan has returned to his hometown of Mistletoe, Maine. He’s been hailed a hero after getting injured in the line of duty, but thinks of himself as anything but, not after two of his battle buddies died and he survived.
Stella Marshall, elementary school teacher extraordinaire, is still struggling with her emotions after being dumped by her fiancé just before their wedding.
Well meaning townsfolk won’t leave Stella alone, convinced she just needs to be set up with a new man. Luke has a similar problem - almost all the single ladies in town keep throwing themselves at him…except Stella.
Luke proposes to Stella that they join forces on a new mission…a “faux-mance”. Keep the ladies away from him and the matchmakers away from her. But what happens when real feelings develop and the “faux” isn’t so…faux?
I loved retuning to Mistletoe, Maine in author Belle Calhoune’s second book of the series. Characters become friends. Even secondary ones like Stella’s sisters - loyal Lucy and spunky Tess - or Luke’s sweet young nephew Miles all add so much to the story. This book isn’t just the perfect summer read…it’s great for all seasons!
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. My opinions about it are my own.
Stella Marshall, elementary school teacher extraordinaire, is still struggling with her emotions after being dumped by her fiancé just before their wedding.
Well meaning townsfolk won’t leave Stella alone, convinced she just needs to be set up with a new man. Luke has a similar problem - almost all the single ladies in town keep throwing themselves at him…except Stella.
Luke proposes to Stella that they join forces on a new mission…a “faux-mance”. Keep the ladies away from him and the matchmakers away from her. But what happens when real feelings develop and the “faux” isn’t so…faux?
I loved retuning to Mistletoe, Maine in author Belle Calhoune’s second book of the series. Characters become friends. Even secondary ones like Stella’s sisters - loyal Lucy and spunky Tess - or Luke’s sweet young nephew Miles all add so much to the story. This book isn’t just the perfect summer read…it’s great for all seasons!
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. My opinions about it are my own.
July 8, 2022
It's summertime and Stella Martin is ready to enjoy her summer off from teaching. She's still nursing a broken heart from her called off engagement so she plans on relaxing and getting herself together. But in comes back to town Luke Keegan, former Navy SEAL and high school crush of Stella and the whole town is in a frenzy baby! With both not looking for a relationship and trying to keep the town out of their business, they decide to team up and fake date. But we all know how that works out!
I really enjoyed this wholesome romance novel! It gave me all the feels of a true love story! Stella and Luke were both battling their own issues and they found a source of comfort in one another. I was literally cheesing reading through this one.
And special shoutout to Luke Keegan because the way he is described in the book...whew...a fine black man indeed lol.
Thank you to @foreverpub for this gifted copy in exchange for my review.
I really enjoyed this wholesome romance novel! It gave me all the feels of a true love story! Stella and Luke were both battling their own issues and they found a source of comfort in one another. I was literally cheesing reading through this one.
And special shoutout to Luke Keegan because the way he is described in the book...whew...a fine black man indeed lol.
Thank you to @foreverpub for this gifted copy in exchange for my review.
April 8, 2023
Stella Marshall is a teacher and the summer break has just started.
Luke Keegan has retired from the Navy Seals and is back in town.
He was a football player in High School and Stella had a crush on him then, but of course he never noticed her.
Stella has a beach cottage and sees Luke running on the beach one morning.
He starts to notice her as well.
But they both have their past situations to deal with.
Stella got dumped two days before her wedding and is still struggling to understand that one.
Luke feels guilty about two Seal team members who died on his watch.
Can they overcome the upsets they have had and make a better future?
Sweet romance set in a small town in Maine.
Luke Keegan has retired from the Navy Seals and is back in town.
He was a football player in High School and Stella had a crush on him then, but of course he never noticed her.
Stella has a beach cottage and sees Luke running on the beach one morning.
He starts to notice her as well.
But they both have their past situations to deal with.
Stella got dumped two days before her wedding and is still struggling to understand that one.
Luke feels guilty about two Seal team members who died on his watch.
Can they overcome the upsets they have had and make a better future?
Sweet romance set in a small town in Maine.
June 29, 2022
This book takes place in a small seaside town in Maine called Mistletoe. Stella, an elementary school teacher is trying to get over a huge heartbreak after her ex-fiancé called off their wedding two days before the ceremony. Luke a former Navy Seal, has just come back home to Mistletoe after an IED explosion injured him and killed two members of his team. While both are trying to heal, they strike up a friendship and realize that love after loss is possible.
This book was such a good summer read. The characters have depth but the topics didn’t feel too heavy for me. I enjoyed the small beach town setting for the book and Stella’s beach cottage sounded absolutely dreamy. The fact the Stella is Luke’s nephew Miles school teacher was so fun to see them Interact over the summer break. I love a good fake dating trope and I felt like the situation fit perfectly into the small town setting of mistletoe. I really enjoyed watch Stella and Luke’s relationship grow from one of convenience into real love.
A huge thank you to #netgalley and #bellecalhoune for this #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was such a good summer read. The characters have depth but the topics didn’t feel too heavy for me. I enjoyed the small beach town setting for the book and Stella’s beach cottage sounded absolutely dreamy. The fact the Stella is Luke’s nephew Miles school teacher was so fun to see them Interact over the summer break. I love a good fake dating trope and I felt like the situation fit perfectly into the small town setting of mistletoe. I really enjoyed watch Stella and Luke’s relationship grow from one of convenience into real love.
A huge thank you to #netgalley and #bellecalhoune for this #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2022
I was transported to Mistletoe, Maine!
On the last day of the school year, Luke and Stella officially meet. They both are in the grieving process, Stella due to her fiance breaking up with her 2 days prior to her wedding a couple years prior, and Luke due to losing two of his Navy SEAL brothers when a mission went horribly wrong. Neither one wants to be bombarded with the set-ups the town gossips want to set them up with, so they mutually decide to platonically pair up over the summer to avoid everyone else.
What they didn't plan on was falling in love with each other after spending time together. As they both work through their grieving, will they be able to make their relationship last? Or will the darkness from their past break them apart.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
On the last day of the school year, Luke and Stella officially meet. They both are in the grieving process, Stella due to her fiance breaking up with her 2 days prior to her wedding a couple years prior, and Luke due to losing two of his Navy SEAL brothers when a mission went horribly wrong. Neither one wants to be bombarded with the set-ups the town gossips want to set them up with, so they mutually decide to platonically pair up over the summer to avoid everyone else.
What they didn't plan on was falling in love with each other after spending time together. As they both work through their grieving, will they be able to make their relationship last? Or will the darkness from their past break them apart.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
September 2, 2022
3.5
Fake dating. PTSD. Fun banter. A series book that could easily be read as a standalone. And two good narrators. This was a quick, easy listen and I’m glad I made time for it finally.
Fake dating. PTSD. Fun banter. A series book that could easily be read as a standalone. And two good narrators. This was a quick, easy listen and I’m glad I made time for it finally.
July 14, 2022
Sweet summer read. I loved it. It was a gentle story about falling in love. Easy read. Makes you feel good. I won this at Goodreads. I definitely plan to read book one now.
July 5, 2022
More wholesome than I usually enjoy and not diverse at all that I could tell. I also stumbled onto a trope I don’t enjoy reading so that soured the book on me. The concept was cute- the execution had no MMPH!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2022
Once again I have the pleasure of visiting the fictional town of Mistletoe, Maine and becoming acquainted with teacher, Stella Marshall and former Navy Seal, Luke Keegan. The last time I visited the town, it was winter and the citizens of Mistletoe were celebrating Christmas (NO ORDINARY CHRISTMAS. Living on Blackberry Beach has a special appeal to Stella as she looks forward to the beautiful sunrises and peaceful sunsets that come with living near the beach. On the last day of school, one of her students, as well as the town, is treated to a special surprise.
A great deal of the storyline is devoted to Luke and Stella coming to grips with their dark pasts so they can have a future together. However, the storyline doesn’t get bogged down with their woes, because Ms Calhoune is very adept at inserting festive scenarios that highlight town events. It’s a good balance of dark and light moments.
The side characters are mainly composed of family and friends of the heroine and hero. They lend support and unsolicited advice. I love the roles of Luke’s nephew, Miles, and Tess, Stella’s ten year old sister. The HEA is so gratifying.
SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH is an engaging and entertaining summer read. I recommend that you add it to your summer reading pile. You won’t be sorry.
A great deal of the storyline is devoted to Luke and Stella coming to grips with their dark pasts so they can have a future together. However, the storyline doesn’t get bogged down with their woes, because Ms Calhoune is very adept at inserting festive scenarios that highlight town events. It’s a good balance of dark and light moments.
The side characters are mainly composed of family and friends of the heroine and hero. They lend support and unsolicited advice. I love the roles of Luke’s nephew, Miles, and Tess, Stella’s ten year old sister. The HEA is so gratifying.
SUMMER ON BLACKBERRY BEACH is an engaging and entertaining summer read. I recommend that you add it to your summer reading pile. You won’t be sorry.
June 25, 2022
Summer on Blackberry Beach is a sweet romance novel set in a charming small town and all the usual gossip that comes with living there. While the first book in the series No Ordinary Christmas focuses on Lucy and Dante’s story, Lucy’s sister Stella is the protagonist of this book.
There were many good things about this novel. I enjoyed the dual narrative of Stella and Luke and the pair’s backstories. The respect that the author writes about the trauma Luke has experienced while in Afghanistan is admired. But there were a few things that prevented me from liking this book as much as the first book in the series.
The relationship between Stella and Luke initially is being sold as fake dating. Although this went on for quite some time in the book, I never felt that this was anything but a genuine romantic relationship. The sparks between the two were there from the moment the two were first reunited.
The other confusing moment for me was when Luke drives 3.5 hours in each direction to meet with a family of a SEAL killed in action without calling ahead. Without giving too much away, I felt that this was selfish on Luke’s part. Having said that, it did allow the author to convey that everyone experiences and processes grief on their own schedule.
Summer on Blackberry Beach is a light read and romance readers will enjoy it. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
There were many good things about this novel. I enjoyed the dual narrative of Stella and Luke and the pair’s backstories. The respect that the author writes about the trauma Luke has experienced while in Afghanistan is admired. But there were a few things that prevented me from liking this book as much as the first book in the series.
The relationship between Stella and Luke initially is being sold as fake dating. Although this went on for quite some time in the book, I never felt that this was anything but a genuine romantic relationship. The sparks between the two were there from the moment the two were first reunited.
The other confusing moment for me was when Luke drives 3.5 hours in each direction to meet with a family of a SEAL killed in action without calling ahead. Without giving too much away, I felt that this was selfish on Luke’s part. Having said that, it did allow the author to convey that everyone experiences and processes grief on their own schedule.
Summer on Blackberry Beach is a light read and romance readers will enjoy it. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
March 2, 2023
I had so many issues with "Summer on Blackberry Beach," by Belle Calhoune. Where to start? I suppose if you like repetitive novels that follow a basic romance novel format, you might like this book, but it did nothing for me. Stella, a broken hearted 2nd grade teacher from a small town in Maine (Mistletoe, Maine, to be exact---seriously? Is this a Hallmark fictional town?) is hurt and embarrassed by her cancelled nuptials to Rafe, who left her for his high school sweetheart two years ago. Stella is tired of blind dates and the ever present pressure of family and friends to help her find someone new. Rafe is now married and a father. Running into him around town is something Stella tries to avoid at all costs. Enter Luke, newly back in town from a long overseas stint as a Navy SEAL. They knew one another in high school, but he was popular and dated lots of girls, while she was quieter, and less social. A decade later they can each do something for the other. Faux relationship? Check. Stella wants people to stop forcing blind dates on her. Luke wants to be left alone by all the local women who would give anything to date this newly returned, single, hero. Now THAT is a match made...from convenience.
Of course, this is a predictable book so you will know, early on that the faux turns to genuine. There have to be obstacles, so let's add some PTSD, a break up, and some precious little kids sticking their noses into the mess. That sums up the book. Everyone will be happy and an epilogue will tell you how it all looked six moths after the last page. Formula followed? Check!
I listened to the audiobook version with a male narrator who sounded like 8th grade boys when I used to ask to read aloud in class, and who had trouble with some word pronunciation. Luke is a grown ass man, not a 14 year old boy! Truly cringey was when Luke and Stella were talking abut the famous film, Casablanca, but the male narrator referred to it as Casablancas. Sorry, buddy, but the word is Casablanca. Another major issue with the audiobook was that while the characters are all from Maine, they sound as if they are from the Deep South, (both the male and female narrators) but are trying to mask their southern accents. It came out now and then. Whoops! I found it off-putting. People in Maine, speaking in the first person, as the male and female narrators do, would not sound anything like these narrators.
The repetitive statements got on my nerves and made me, as a reader, think the author believes her readers are dumb and have to be reminded over and over of all sorts of things, including having to be told 3 or 4 times that Stella's skin is the color of mocha. She is black. We get that. Why tell us all the time? There were many instances like this, with other bits of information. It did nothing but annoy me.
Had I been reading this book with my eyes, I would never have chosen to finish it, but because it was an audiobook, and I could cook, drive, run errands, etc. while listening to it, I decided to just get through it. It was an eight hour investment, which is not a long time for an audiobook. My library limits the number of audiobooks we can download per month, and I did not want to waste this download.
In a word, "Summer on Blackberry Beach" is mediocre, at best. It was tame by today's standards. I will not choose to read any future books by Ms. Calhoune.
Of course, this is a predictable book so you will know, early on that the faux turns to genuine. There have to be obstacles, so let's add some PTSD, a break up, and some precious little kids sticking their noses into the mess. That sums up the book. Everyone will be happy and an epilogue will tell you how it all looked six moths after the last page. Formula followed? Check!
I listened to the audiobook version with a male narrator who sounded like 8th grade boys when I used to ask to read aloud in class, and who had trouble with some word pronunciation. Luke is a grown ass man, not a 14 year old boy! Truly cringey was when Luke and Stella were talking abut the famous film, Casablanca, but the male narrator referred to it as Casablancas. Sorry, buddy, but the word is Casablanca. Another major issue with the audiobook was that while the characters are all from Maine, they sound as if they are from the Deep South, (both the male and female narrators) but are trying to mask their southern accents. It came out now and then. Whoops! I found it off-putting. People in Maine, speaking in the first person, as the male and female narrators do, would not sound anything like these narrators.
The repetitive statements got on my nerves and made me, as a reader, think the author believes her readers are dumb and have to be reminded over and over of all sorts of things, including having to be told 3 or 4 times that Stella's skin is the color of mocha. She is black. We get that. Why tell us all the time? There were many instances like this, with other bits of information. It did nothing but annoy me.
Had I been reading this book with my eyes, I would never have chosen to finish it, but because it was an audiobook, and I could cook, drive, run errands, etc. while listening to it, I decided to just get through it. It was an eight hour investment, which is not a long time for an audiobook. My library limits the number of audiobooks we can download per month, and I did not want to waste this download.
In a word, "Summer on Blackberry Beach" is mediocre, at best. It was tame by today's standards. I will not choose to read any future books by Ms. Calhoune.
July 9, 2022
Summer on Blackberry Beach by Belle Calhoune is a 2022 Forever publication.
School teacher, Stella Marshall is looking forward to her summer break. She is helping with her sister’s wedding preparations, but, she is also trying to understand why her own fiancé dumped her.
But things get mighty interesting when Luke Keegan, Stella’s high school crush, returns home after his stint in the military.
Luke was a Navy SEAL but was injured in the line of duty, effectively ending his military career. He’s come home to regroup and to help his brother, a recent widower, raising his young son alone. He can’t believe Stella, his nephew’s schoolteacher, is the same quiet, studious girl he knew in school. She’s grown into a very attractive woman- but romance is the last thing on Luke’s mind.
Unfortunately, Mistletoe residents are a gossipy bunch, and pretty soon tongues are wagging over a few chance encounters between Luke and Stella- which gives them an idea..
What if they were to pretend to be a couple- just for the summer?
That would put an end to Stella’s friends and family constantly trying to set her up- and keep the ladies in town lining up for a chance with a super sexy Navy SEAL away from Luke while he sorts through some personal and physical health issues. But once they start ‘seeing’ each other, the Ruse becomes all too real…
I really enjoyed this clean and gentle ‘friends to lovers’ romance. Stella and Luke both had issues to address, both were skittish about giving love another try, and Luke really had some serious adversity to overcome- mentally, emotionally, and physically.
That emotional depth is the reason why this book worked so well for me. I like to see couples face some challenges that make moments of doubt and confusion understandable, and I like to watch them overcome those challenges, which is always rewarding. Stella and Luke make a great couple, and I enjoyed being a part of their journey and their happily ever after.
Overall, there is much to love about this story. Though it is a part of a series, it works quite well as a stand-alone. Anyone looking for a sweet, clean romance with just the right balance of emotion and romance, this is one you will want to consider.
3.5 stars
School teacher, Stella Marshall is looking forward to her summer break. She is helping with her sister’s wedding preparations, but, she is also trying to understand why her own fiancé dumped her.
But things get mighty interesting when Luke Keegan, Stella’s high school crush, returns home after his stint in the military.
Luke was a Navy SEAL but was injured in the line of duty, effectively ending his military career. He’s come home to regroup and to help his brother, a recent widower, raising his young son alone. He can’t believe Stella, his nephew’s schoolteacher, is the same quiet, studious girl he knew in school. She’s grown into a very attractive woman- but romance is the last thing on Luke’s mind.
Unfortunately, Mistletoe residents are a gossipy bunch, and pretty soon tongues are wagging over a few chance encounters between Luke and Stella- which gives them an idea..
What if they were to pretend to be a couple- just for the summer?
That would put an end to Stella’s friends and family constantly trying to set her up- and keep the ladies in town lining up for a chance with a super sexy Navy SEAL away from Luke while he sorts through some personal and physical health issues. But once they start ‘seeing’ each other, the Ruse becomes all too real…
I really enjoyed this clean and gentle ‘friends to lovers’ romance. Stella and Luke both had issues to address, both were skittish about giving love another try, and Luke really had some serious adversity to overcome- mentally, emotionally, and physically.
That emotional depth is the reason why this book worked so well for me. I like to see couples face some challenges that make moments of doubt and confusion understandable, and I like to watch them overcome those challenges, which is always rewarding. Stella and Luke make a great couple, and I enjoyed being a part of their journey and their happily ever after.
Overall, there is much to love about this story. Though it is a part of a series, it works quite well as a stand-alone. Anyone looking for a sweet, clean romance with just the right balance of emotion and romance, this is one you will want to consider.
3.5 stars
April 12, 2022
✨ Summer on Blackberry Beach is the perfect way to kickstart your summer! It will have you craving the ocean breeze, warm weather and seafood. ✨
📝 Second grade teacher, Stella Marshall is ready for summer break! After getting dumped two days before her wedding, she's ready to leave behind men and town gossip. Then Luke Keegan, a retired Navy SEAL, returns home after becoming injured in Afghanistan. He's Stella's childhood crush, along with every other single woman in town. To stop everyone from interfering in their dating lives, Luke proposes for them to take on a 'SHOWMANCE' to hopefully ward off other singles and blind dates. Is this fake relationship the solution to all their problems? Or, does it lead to something more?
What I 🤍:
🌊 Coastal Maine Setting
🌲 Small Town Vibes
💕 Heartwarming Romance
🌷Fake Dating Troupe
💭 Emotional Connection over Sexual Chemistry
This book was such a sweet romance! I felt I was given a warm hug as I read it. 🤗Honestly, Hallmark should pick this book up as their next movie. 🎥 One thing I loved was how supportive the people were. Stella and Luke were kind to one another, and they also taught themselves kindness within. I think that's a valuable lesson we all need in life. I also loved all the townspeople. Even though they were meddlesome and chit-chatty, I felt it was because they care for one another in this place. They really do want the best for one another. I finished reading SOBB and wished I lived in a town like this.
There are some tough topics in this book, such as getting dumped, death of loved ones, and PTSD after returning home from war. Calhoune handled this in a way that acknowledged the struggles, but focused it more on a journey of healing. Those moments were really powerful, and heartwarming.
Prince's Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Steaminess: 🔥 (Kisses)
(I took off 1/2 a star because I would have loved a bit more spice, or a closed door scene.)
Someday, this will be a book I want my daughter to read on healthy communication in relationships. Thank you to Belle Calhoune, Grand Central Publishing and Net Galley for a copy of this book. 🤍
📝 Second grade teacher, Stella Marshall is ready for summer break! After getting dumped two days before her wedding, she's ready to leave behind men and town gossip. Then Luke Keegan, a retired Navy SEAL, returns home after becoming injured in Afghanistan. He's Stella's childhood crush, along with every other single woman in town. To stop everyone from interfering in their dating lives, Luke proposes for them to take on a 'SHOWMANCE' to hopefully ward off other singles and blind dates. Is this fake relationship the solution to all their problems? Or, does it lead to something more?
What I 🤍:
🌊 Coastal Maine Setting
🌲 Small Town Vibes
💕 Heartwarming Romance
🌷Fake Dating Troupe
💭 Emotional Connection over Sexual Chemistry
This book was such a sweet romance! I felt I was given a warm hug as I read it. 🤗Honestly, Hallmark should pick this book up as their next movie. 🎥 One thing I loved was how supportive the people were. Stella and Luke were kind to one another, and they also taught themselves kindness within. I think that's a valuable lesson we all need in life. I also loved all the townspeople. Even though they were meddlesome and chit-chatty, I felt it was because they care for one another in this place. They really do want the best for one another. I finished reading SOBB and wished I lived in a town like this.
There are some tough topics in this book, such as getting dumped, death of loved ones, and PTSD after returning home from war. Calhoune handled this in a way that acknowledged the struggles, but focused it more on a journey of healing. Those moments were really powerful, and heartwarming.
Prince's Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Steaminess: 🔥 (Kisses)
(I took off 1/2 a star because I would have loved a bit more spice, or a closed door scene.)
Someday, this will be a book I want my daughter to read on healthy communication in relationships. Thank you to Belle Calhoune, Grand Central Publishing and Net Galley for a copy of this book. 🤍
July 29, 2022
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5
Thank you to my partner @readforeverpub for providing me a copy of this beautiful book in exchange for a review!
Stella is still mourning the loss of her fiancé who dumped her two days before their wedding and remarried shortly afterwards. When Luke returns to their hometown after being injured in the line of duty as a Navy SEAL, both are targeted by town gossips for terrible date setups. Neither are ready for a relationship, so they decide to put on a “showmance” and pretend date so everyone will leave them alone. But real chemistry blossoms between them the longer they fake their relationship. It doesn't hurt that’s Stella helps Luke come to turns with losing two soldiers in the line of duty while she heals her own broken heart.
My Take
♥️ What I loved:
This book is a sugar sweet, clean romance. I love the character development of both Stella and Luke, as well as Stella’s little sister and Luke’s nephew. I also loved the small town and festivals in Blackberry Beach. Such a great setting. I also really appreciated the dive into seeking help for military trauma and what that means for someone who is a “big, strong man” who society says shouldn’t be emotional or afraid.
☁️ What I thought could be improved:
There was a lot of repetition. Justifying the showmance for the same reasons over and over made me want to skip past those paragraphs. It was also very “plain” writing. It wasn’t bad writing — in fact I really loved the story! There just weren’t very many vibrant descriptions. At one point the MMC says “For those reasons and so many more, I’ve fallen in love with you.” Sounded more like an essay than a love proclamation. 😅
🌊 Overall I really enjoyed this book, which was perfect for the beach. I feel like one more solid edit would have bumped it up a star for me. Still though, I recommend it to anyone who loves a sweet story, clean romance and a second chance at the joy of life!
Thank you to my partner @readforeverpub for providing me a copy of this beautiful book in exchange for a review!
Stella is still mourning the loss of her fiancé who dumped her two days before their wedding and remarried shortly afterwards. When Luke returns to their hometown after being injured in the line of duty as a Navy SEAL, both are targeted by town gossips for terrible date setups. Neither are ready for a relationship, so they decide to put on a “showmance” and pretend date so everyone will leave them alone. But real chemistry blossoms between them the longer they fake their relationship. It doesn't hurt that’s Stella helps Luke come to turns with losing two soldiers in the line of duty while she heals her own broken heart.
My Take
♥️ What I loved:
This book is a sugar sweet, clean romance. I love the character development of both Stella and Luke, as well as Stella’s little sister and Luke’s nephew. I also loved the small town and festivals in Blackberry Beach. Such a great setting. I also really appreciated the dive into seeking help for military trauma and what that means for someone who is a “big, strong man” who society says shouldn’t be emotional or afraid.
☁️ What I thought could be improved:
There was a lot of repetition. Justifying the showmance for the same reasons over and over made me want to skip past those paragraphs. It was also very “plain” writing. It wasn’t bad writing — in fact I really loved the story! There just weren’t very many vibrant descriptions. At one point the MMC says “For those reasons and so many more, I’ve fallen in love with you.” Sounded more like an essay than a love proclamation. 😅
🌊 Overall I really enjoyed this book, which was perfect for the beach. I feel like one more solid edit would have bumped it up a star for me. Still though, I recommend it to anyone who loves a sweet story, clean romance and a second chance at the joy of life!
June 19, 2022
In the small beach town of Mistletoe, Maine, two people are about to find out that maybe faking a relationship can lead to really falling in love. Stella Marshall is a teacher who loves her job and can’t wait for summer to begin. But things are about to get a little bit off track when her high school crush has come back in town, cue, extremely handsome Navy Seal, Luke Keegan. Luke is trying to find himself after leaving the SEALs and dealing with PTSD and survivor’s guilt over the two members of his team that never made it back. He’s back in town to spend time with his brother and nephew and maybe see if Mistletoe, Maine is where he is meant to be. One thing both Luke and Stella have in common is that they’re both not looking for relationships after the one’s they had been in. Stella’s ex-fiancee had dumped her days before the wedding and now she’s sworn off relationships, except Luke just might be what tempts her to give them another try. When rumors start spreading like wildfire in this small town, everyone is convinced that Luke and Stella are dating, and Luke comes up with a proposal: they both pretend to fake date for the summer so that they’ll both be left alone by people who either want to date them or set them up with other people. Since neither of them are looking for a relationship, it should be the perfect idea? Except the more time they spend together the more they start to realize feelings may be blooming between them. This was the perfect cozy seaside romance read! Super cute and sweet and though its the second book in the series they can be read as a standalone!
*Thank you ReadForeverPub and Belle Calhoune for sending me an copy in exchange for an honest review*
*Thank you ReadForeverPub and Belle Calhoune for sending me an copy in exchange for an honest review*
March 7, 2026
This is book 2 in the series and it is great as a stand alone book. I am sure readers who read the first one enjoyed seeing the reappearance of familiar characters
Stella Marshall is a second grade teacher in the small Maine town of Mistletoe. On her last day of class before summer break , Luke Keegan appears for the last day of assembly to surprise his nephew. Luke is a navy seal who is returning home after a bad mission on Afghanistan. Luke was badly injured and also lost two teammates. He has a lot of baggage but the town ladies all want to date the hot hero Stella is still recovering from a broken engagement 2 years ago and the town wants to fix her up w every single man
Stella and Luke decided to fake date to shut up the town Sparks fly and the rest is history
I appreciate that this book was sizzling hot without going into the dirty details There seemed to be a lot of repeat of the crap that was on their heads. Oh I need to see Mr team mates family but I m not ready. Oh oh oh when am I ever going to get over my former boyfriend ( who seemed to be a jerk ) The town of Mistletoe just did not seem to be a real Maine town — it had lobsters and a beach and mosquitos I had no idea how Stella afforded a beach front house on a teachers salary. There was no rocky coastline no sea gulls no humidity
2026 OSU Winter bingo challenge
Stella Marshall is a second grade teacher in the small Maine town of Mistletoe. On her last day of class before summer break , Luke Keegan appears for the last day of assembly to surprise his nephew. Luke is a navy seal who is returning home after a bad mission on Afghanistan. Luke was badly injured and also lost two teammates. He has a lot of baggage but the town ladies all want to date the hot hero Stella is still recovering from a broken engagement 2 years ago and the town wants to fix her up w every single man
Stella and Luke decided to fake date to shut up the town Sparks fly and the rest is history
I appreciate that this book was sizzling hot without going into the dirty details There seemed to be a lot of repeat of the crap that was on their heads. Oh I need to see Mr team mates family but I m not ready. Oh oh oh when am I ever going to get over my former boyfriend ( who seemed to be a jerk ) The town of Mistletoe just did not seem to be a real Maine town — it had lobsters and a beach and mosquitos I had no idea how Stella afforded a beach front house on a teachers salary. There was no rocky coastline no sea gulls no humidity
2026 OSU Winter bingo challenge
April 13, 2022
This was such a lovely sweet story of two wounded people coming together and learning to love. Stella has sworn off men after being left at the altar two days before her wedding 2 years ago and Luke is suffering from ptsd and survivors guilt after an honorable discharge from the navy seals. What starts off as a rumor turned fake dating scheme to keep people off their backs turns into so much more. But will there pasts keep them from a happy future?
I loved Stella and Luke! I felt for both of them and the trauma they’d lived through. Although there were many times I wanted to yell at both of them to get into therapy! I’m glad that Belle didn’t magically make Luke’s ptsd disappear at the end of the book but showed he was getting help. Grief, ptsd, and survivors guilt affect so many people and since it does I appreciate when books don’t make it seem like something you just magically get over.
They’re story was sweet and there are some great secondary characters. I haven’t read Lucy and Dante’s story and they seem great but the real secondary stars are Miles (Luke’s nephew) and Tessa (Stella’s baby sister) Miles is just absolutely precious and Tessa is the most precocious old soul 10 year old who I hope one day gets her own grown up story.
I loved Stella and Luke! I felt for both of them and the trauma they’d lived through. Although there were many times I wanted to yell at both of them to get into therapy! I’m glad that Belle didn’t magically make Luke’s ptsd disappear at the end of the book but showed he was getting help. Grief, ptsd, and survivors guilt affect so many people and since it does I appreciate when books don’t make it seem like something you just magically get over.
They’re story was sweet and there are some great secondary characters. I haven’t read Lucy and Dante’s story and they seem great but the real secondary stars are Miles (Luke’s nephew) and Tessa (Stella’s baby sister) Miles is just absolutely precious and Tessa is the most precocious old soul 10 year old who I hope one day gets her own grown up story.
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