Professional chef Leah Spencer is level-headed, responsible, and practical—making it an easy decision to move home to Laurel Cove, North Carolina to care for her ailing father. All he wants is for his only child to find love and partnership like he had with his late wife—before he leaves her all alone. Desperate to ease his worries, as well as her own, she breaks character and creates a fake relationship with the one man in town who likely wants nothing to do with her. And the one man she’s ever truly loved.
Ladies’ man Jasper Bowdon has successfully avoided commitment ever since his heart was broken a decade ago. Casual dating, however, had grown tiresome and he’d recently decided to take a break from women to finally figure out what he really wants. Why, then, does he agree to a pretend relationship with the very woman who’d ruined him in the first place? And why is he left wondering if it could all be part of God’s plan to heal them both?
Love and friendship get a second chance in this final installment of the Laurel Cove Romance Series. Books in this series are stand-alone and can be read and enjoyed in any order.
Hi, friends! I write sweet Southern romances to offer moments of escape for busy readers who love love. My faith-friendly books have big emotions, relatable characters, and swoon-worthy happy endings.
Here's a little about me. I am a wife and mother transplanted from North Carolina now living in North Texas. I am a full-time communications and graphic design professional, working primarily with non-profit organizations.
Now to the important stuff… I love Jesus, coffee, caramel, and -- like you -- stories with happy endings!
'Everything doesn't always turn out fine. But I know God wants the best for us. And I think you're the best for me.'
What can I say that will do this book justice? That I loved it? I surely did. That it moved me? It truly did. Here's what will make or break a book for me. If I start reading and the characters seem wooden and unfeeling. That will make me put a book down quickly. Teresa Tysinger does not create wooden characters. Ever. Even her secondary characters are wonderful. They walk into my heart and all of a sudden, I'm part of every scene; albeit just as an observer. Her characters deal with real life problems. And they deal with them as normal people do and they face heartache and fear and love just as we do.
This is not a fluffy read, folks. The heroine deals with an issue many people face, and sometimes it threatens to completely overwhelm her. And the hero is, well, he's an amazing guy, and a wonderful man of God. One of the best. Both of these characters learn that life is best faced when you learn to lean on God.
The spiritual thread here is powerful. One sentence ministered greatly to a situation I was facing in my own life. Then it kept on ministering. I love it when God does that! Don't miss this one, folks. I highly recommend it.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book. I was not pressured to leave a positive review and the opinion here is entirely my own.
Oh, this book really captured my heart. This whole series is one I love and it is a great series for anyone who enjoys romance to jump into because all of the books, including this one, can be read as stand alone novels if you haven’t read the other stories. Yet, they are all set in fictional Laurel Cove, a place that feels like one I would very much enjoy moving to!
I loved reading this second chance at love story. It started out as a fake dating trope, with the complication being that Jasper and Leah were once very much really dating years earlier, before Leah broke Jasper’s heart. Yet this story was much more than just a fake dating set up. Leah’s character was still grieving her mother’s death when her father became gravely ill and they had to enter the world of transplants and the waiting that accompanies such things.
Jasper was such an amazing hero. It was very clear that his heart was made only for Leah, yet even though he knew he loved her, there was a lot to overcome for the two of them. I really liked the way Jasper approached various situations in this story, the way he supported Leah and wanted to be there fore her, and I also enjoyed seeing how good his relationship was with his brother, Jack.
This story was a beautiful picture of what true love is and of how important it is to trust in the Lord to help us persevere when we feel that fear is going to overwhelm us. Leah had a lot of growing to do in facing her fears and I enjoyed reading about her journey and watching Jasper and Leah find their happily-ever-after.
I read this book through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own.
This book has so many lol moments. Not to mention it combines awesome trope of fake relationship and second chances. I'm a little sad to see the Laurel Cove series end, but can't wait to see what Teresa Tysinger comes up with next. She's great at creating a setting I can imagine, characters I can root for, and romances that make me have all the feels.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. My review was not influenced nor required.
From the beginning, Say It’s for Good feels like a long-awaited gift your heart begs to open. Leah and Jasper are instantly lovable and, like everyone else in Laurel Cove, you can’t help but cheer for them to reunite.
Tysinger’s soul-stirring second-chance romance doesn’t shy away from life’s hard questions but rather, confronts them with grace and mercy until the moment hope conquers all.
"Or we could combine the two words to make one. Like calling breakfast for dinner brinner. Instead of 'fake date' we could just say...oh, what would that be?" She cut her eyes toward the sky, like she was trying to solve a math equation. "Fate." Her gaze leveled out and met his. "Fate" she echoed in a whisper.
In my opinion, this quote encompasses everything I loved about this book! The chemistry between these two is palpable. Their history just added such a layer to their relationship that was absolute perfection. One of my favorite parts was the banter between the two of them. They have a playfulness that balances out their intensity!
On top of all that, this is definitely not what anyone would classify as a light, fluffy read. One is an issue that most readers will probably relate to. One is a medical struggle that will definitely touch people's hearts. And the spiritual thread is on point. I believe that the Lord will use this story to touch many lives! People will grow and be stretched within the pages of this story. And what more can we possibly ask from a story? To be entertained, to fall in love with wonderful, dynamic characters, and for our lives to be moved and changed! This is not only a very special book...but a very special series, that I highly, highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Both Leah and Jasper are full of conflicts, so it took me a bit to understand what is real about them and what is a front they are putting up. The book began a bit slow as Leah has recently returned to Laurel Cove, set up a new business with best friend Penny, and anxiously worrying over the health of her father. The initial interactions between Leah and Jasper are stiff and awkward- almost painful to read. I was relieved when they began to act on instinct (against their better judgement) and had more genuine connections. With the way their relationship had ended, Leah is holding onto a debilitating amount of guilt while Jasper has an easier time overcoming his resentment as his feelings of love are swiftly resurrected. They are each well acquainted with grief, and it is a strong theme of the book as they learn about the risks and joy in finding a second chance at both love and life.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
I enjoyed this second chance/fake relationship story. I liked seeing the main characters grow and seeing them overcome their fear together. I liked that they went through some tough struggles but through those struggles their faith in God and in each other grew. I thought this story was well written and I liked the community that the author created. I have enjoyed this series and think it was well written and enjoyable.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
“My dear, love is rarely safe, but it’s most rewarding. To find it, you’ve got to take risks.”
Teresa Tysinger has written another beautiful story of overcoming obstacles to love set in Laurel Cove. Every visit is a delight as we meet new characters and revisit old ones. This story of second chance love is at times heart-breaking, but at other times endearing. I found myself so invested in Jasper and Leah’s romance that I had a hard time putting this book down. I loved the caring natures of these characters, the hurt they had to work through, the conversations they had. Everything about this story drew me in.
I have enjoyed every book in the Laurel Cove Romance series. They can be read as stand-alone novels and in any order. I highly recommend this book to readers of contemporary romance.
I was given a copy of this book by the author. All opinions are my own.
"God can use even our mistakes to lead us to the good He wants for us."
At first glance, Say It's for Good is a cute second chance, fake boyfriend, small-town romance. But the further I read, deeper issues started to surface.
Just a few months ago Leah Spencer lost her mother to cancer. She is back in town to take care of her ailing father, Zeke Spencer, and to run her freshly opened business. Unless they find a kidney donor, things are looking grim for Zeke. Enter Jasper Bowdon. Years ago, Jasper and Leah were so in love and so sure they will marry one day. But when Jasper proposed, Leah ran and broke Jasper's heart. Now, thrust into her fake boyfriend role, he believes he has a second chance with Leah.
This requires being honest. I am glad the fake relationship issue is not swept under the carpet. The characters struggle with lying to Zeke and to everyone else in town. And although this issue gets resolved, Leah is not relieved. She is still plagued with fears -- she is scared of losing her dad, of being left alone in the world, and especially, of hurting Jasper again, and of her resurrected and growing feelings for him. She is a mess only God can sort out.
"It was a nice idea to think God was never really done with anyone's story. But relationships, real or made up, came to an end all the time. Did Leah dare put hope in God not being done with hers and Jasper's?"
She has to choose. The most beautiful part of the story comes near the end of the book. Both Leah and Zeke will experience the most humbling and loving act one human can do to another. It will not only restore relationships, but it will make them stronger.
Although certain scenes were a bit distracting for me (too old for all that smooching), I gave the book five stars. I enjoyed the emotional and spiritual journey the characters took in this book. There are no clear-cut antagonists, no one to blame or hate when things go wrong, just the fears Leah has to get under control with God's help.
I received an advanced readers copy, and the review is my honest opinion of the book.
Fear can hold a person back from good things. In this story, Leah is battling fear. Fear of the unknown, and fear of losing someone. So, her remedy is to walk, or sometimes run away. But that can cause pain and problems. This time she decides to pretend, but that creates even more problems. Years ago, Jasper had his heart crushed by Leah, so why is he willing to “pretend” to be in a relationship with her again? He knows that his heart is going to mess up and he’ll be hurt again. But can love, really win this time? This story is one that will twist your emotions around in many ways. The author has these characters dealing with some pretty tough stuff, but through it all there is an underlying hope that God will work all things out. I loved the protectiveness, gentleness, caring, and strong love of Jasper. He’s quite the hunky hero in this story! I enjoyed the sassiness and spunk of Leah’s friend, Penny. She’s a kick! Then I loved the wisdom of Leah’s dad and Jasper’s Aunt Bea. All these characters bring a well-rounded story to these pages. Throughout this story, the author wove beautiful words of God’s healing and hope. This is also what makes a book stay longer in my mind. Teresa Tysinger is gifted as a writer, and her stories are delightful. I love books where I come away with lessons I can apply to my own life. This story is packed full of life lessons. I highly recommend you pick this book up! I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Say It's For Good is a sweet story of restoration and hope.
Jasper was so charming! Normally, I wouldn't care much for a character who is a ladies' man. However, author Teresa Tysinger did not emphasize that part of his character. Instead, she showed the reason he resisted commitment. And he wasn't bad, he just hadn't found "the one". Jasper had a heart of gold, loving his family deeply, protecting his friends. And being willing to steadfastly remain in Leah's life despite her pushing him away...
Leah had plenty of reasons to fear - after all, her mother had recently died and her father was critically ill. And she had broken her best friend's heart. However, in His grace and mercy, God wouldn't allow her to remain in a place of fear. In His tender manner, He showed her that He is greater than all her fears and allowed her to overcome them.
Readers who enjoy sweet romance filled with characters seeking to follow after God will enjoy Say It's For Good and the entire Laurel Cove Romance series. If you haven't yet read the others in this series, never fear, they all stand alone and can be read in any order.
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
A heartwarming story of second chances, author Teresa Tysinger writes a story that will make you sigh while reading.
Strong, well developed characters make this story a gem. Leah and Jasper both have fears and hurts that need healing. Can love accomplish that? And can they trust love? Hope and God make such a difference in life and in this story. I enjoyed “watching” personalities and relationships grow and strengthen through the trials of life. And the secondary characters are equally as good. Spunky Penny, Leah’s caring father, and Jasper’s Aunt Bea all added depth and joy to the story.
I appreciated Tysinger’s handling of the need for an organ transplant. Being the daughter of a recipient, this well written thread in the story is much appreciated.
If you enjoy sweet, clean contemporary romance then I recommend Say It’s For Good.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
After ten years, ex girlfriend & boyfriend, Leah & Jasper not only find themselves together again in Laurel Cove, but thrown together in a fake romantic relationship. I found myself laughing one minute & grabbing for a tissue the next. But, when the lie is discovered it appears all chances of a for-real romance may be lost. Through a series of unforseen twists & turns, Jasper & Leah find the love that was lost so many years before. A sweet story of second & third chances, sacrifice & some fatherly grace thrown in. Teresa's detailed description of the town & it's people makes one feel like they are walking the streets of Laurel Cove. I invite you to spend some time with Leah, Jasper & family & friends in "Say It's For Good"!!
Leah Spencer returns home to care for her dad whose health is failing. She's stayed away from Laurel Cove since college—after breaking up with her high school sweetheart, Jasper Bowdon.
Her dad longs to see Leah established in a happy marriage, like he was with her late mom, before he passes away. Counter to her well-planned nature and desperate to please her dad, she enters a plan without much thought.
Jasper has been living his life. But casually dating the unattached women of Laurel Cove for the last ten years has gotten old. When he hears Leah is back, he can't seem to stay away. He even agrees to be Leah's fake boyfriend to satisfy her dad. Other than going against his break from dating, he's more than fine with the plan.
But will Leah be fine with her spontaneous plan in the long run?
This is the fourth full-length novel in the Laurel Cove Romance series. I loved each one of the books, and this one kept me reading late into the night.
I enjoyed so much about this book. The characters were lovable. The story was page-turning. The struggles of the characters were real and relatable. I always think it's fun to have glimpses of characters from the previous books, and this one did not disappoint.
*I received an advanced copy from the publisher, but all remarks and opinions are mine.
Laurel Cove is one of my favorite places! I love the people, the scenery, and the businesses. I feel like I have come to know these people and that I could literally find my way to Brewed and the church. Leah and Jasper were fantastic characters and it was great to see old friends from previous stories. Second chance romance is my favorite troupe and this one did not disappoint. Really good writing with a really good story equals a really good time!
Reading Say It's For Good was special to me as I used to call the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina home. I am ashamed to say this was the first book of the series that I have read, but it will not be my last. I have been wanting to read this series for quite some time, but that old saying of so many books so little time is so true. I say all this to explain that this story can very much be read as a standalone. I would definitely recommend reading the whole series in order, but I was not confused in the least not having read the others first.
I just loved Leah and Jasper. They were real people battling real life issues while learning to fully depend on God and learn to depend on each other once again. I loved the other characters as well as the small town setting. This was a heartwarming read that was not afraid to tackle tough issues such as loss, grief, fear, forgiveness, etc.
I look forward to reading the rest of the series and more by this author.
Thank you to the author and publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Say It's For Good is the final book in the Laurel Cove romance series, and it's so good. Leah and Jasper's story is of broken hearts and second chances. Leah pretends to be in a relationship, and guess who her fake boyfriend is? None other than Jasper. Will their fake relationship turn into something more? I enjoyed this story. The ending was the best.
Fake dating, grief, a serious health scare, and holding on to fear. These are some of the problems that the MC’s face. But they come to realize that with God’s help, all things are possible. Very good story.
I absolutely loved this story. The two main characters are Jasper and Leah. Jasper is the brother of Jack from book one, as they own the hardware store together and had a close relationship in the first book I was hopeful that Jack would play a prominent role in this book and I wasn’t disappointed. Leah and Jasper seriously dated when they were young but broke up 10 years ago during college. Leah is now back in town after recently losing her mother and finding out her dad is sick. Jasper and Leah begin fake dating to please her dad, but one of the rules they establish is that their hearts cannot get involved. Will that be possible?
Jasper has dated other women since Leah but nothing serious as he knows that his heart still belongs to her. Leah is battling fear of losing those she loves so she tries her hardest to keep her distance from Jasper and fights her growing feelings. Meanwhile their lie gets them into a couple sticky situations, and they quickly learn that no good comes from lying. I loved these characters. Jasper puts his heart on the line for Leah numerous times. I felt for Leah, trying to cope with her dad’s illness so soon after losing her mother. She had a wonderful support system with her best friend/business partner and Jasper. He stepped up for her even when she tried to push him away. Jasper turned to his brother, Jack, for advice and Jack prayed about it before advising Jasper. What a wonderful example. I loved this story and the message of God trusting in God to help you through the hard times and that he has a plan for you.
"What if happily ever after is really found by embracing the messy journey - together?"
It's so good to be back in Laurel Cove. This book brings together the previous main characters of the series all in one spot and seeing them again was like being at a long-awaited family reunion. Jasper is a steadfast and charming hero; his ready willingness to forgive Leah for their past and tenacity in pursuing her make him quite worthy. Leah is sweet but plagued by fear; the theme of overcoming fear and anxiety with promises from God and reminders of His faithfulness, as well as the promises and faithfulness of those who love us, is real and potent throughout the book. Jasper and Leah are quite cute and tender together as they reminisce about their first romance and take leaps of faith during their second chance.
If you're in the mood for a sweet contemporary romance, look no further. Though it's the fourth book in the series, it can definitely be read as a stand-alone. I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Leah is back to take care of her dad. She lost her mom recently and is so afraid of losing her dad and of being alone. Jasper's heart was broken by Leah years ago. I thought it was funny how when he decided to take a break from dating (which he really didn't enjoy anyway) who pops back in his life but the one who got away - Leah. Their fake dating was super funny to watch and heart touching to see them fall again. Such a strong spiritual lessons in this book that made me stop and think. Her dad was adorable and so loved her. The ending was one of the best.
I can't believe this is the last book from Laurel Cove. This series has been superb. I absolutely love the way Teresa writes. She writes characters that are so relatable and with such depth. I truly hope she continues writing for a very long time.
In this story we meet Leah who is battling with fear. Jasper had his heart crushed by her but yet he is willing to "pretend" to be in a relationship with her so her dad doesn't worry so much. Despite him knowing that his heart may be torn apart again he goes along with this charade but can love win out?
Both these characters are dealing with some tough things but God... isn't amazing that God always is in the midst of our circumstances and Teresa truly shows us this throughout the whole story. I loved these characters and let me just say that Jasper is quite the hunk!! I absolutely loved Penny and feel like she deserves her own story.
This story will make you feel all the feels and you will completely fall in love with Laurel Cove. I really enjoyed that we get so see the characters from past books in this one. I am sad that this is the end but ever hopeful that there will a novella or something coming out from Laurel Cove!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.