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Hope Falls: Brewed Awakenings #3
Resisting Fate
Audrey Wells loved her life. From the time she was a kid watching Gilmore Girls, she’d dreamed of living in a small town and owning her own business. And she made her dreams come true. Eight years ago she moved to Hope Falls, a quintessential small town, where she opened a coffee shop with her sisters.
She loved her business. She loved her community. And she loved her best friend. Scratch that, she was in love with her best friend. For years she’d kept her feelings (and virginal status) to herself. But one accidental confession while Dining in the Dark could change everything. Or at least, she hoped it would.
Josh Bianchi survived his life. It’s what he’d done from the time he was a kid. He survived growing up with an absent mother and an alcoholic father. He survived seven years in the Army and a career-ending blast from an IED. He survived each day with back pain and each night with night terrors.
The one bright spot in his life was is his best friend. Her smile was a lighthouse in his sea of darkness. His feelings for her were more than love, more than attraction, more than anyone could ever understand. She saved him when no one knew he needed saving. She was a walking, breathing angel. His angel. He would never do anything to jeopardize his relationship with her. Or at least he thought he wouldn’t. One intimate confession made in the dark tempted him to cross the line and risk it all.
Author’s Note: Resisting Fate is a friends-to-lovers, forced proximity, virgin, small-town romance. These soulmates' rocky road to HEA is paved with a wounded hero, sweet and steady heroine, rescue dog named Thor who is...wait for it...afraid of thunder, well-meaning (read: meddling) family members with behind-the-scenes plots and schemes, and an abundance of swoon-worthy awws, chuckle-inducing hahas, and ohs so hot you may need to fan yourself. Disclaimer: fan not included in purchase.
She loved her business. She loved her community. And she loved her best friend. Scratch that, she was in love with her best friend. For years she’d kept her feelings (and virginal status) to herself. But one accidental confession while Dining in the Dark could change everything. Or at least, she hoped it would.
Josh Bianchi survived his life. It’s what he’d done from the time he was a kid. He survived growing up with an absent mother and an alcoholic father. He survived seven years in the Army and a career-ending blast from an IED. He survived each day with back pain and each night with night terrors.
The one bright spot in his life was is his best friend. Her smile was a lighthouse in his sea of darkness. His feelings for her were more than love, more than attraction, more than anyone could ever understand. She saved him when no one knew he needed saving. She was a walking, breathing angel. His angel. He would never do anything to jeopardize his relationship with her. Or at least he thought he wouldn’t. One intimate confession made in the dark tempted him to cross the line and risk it all.
Author’s Note: Resisting Fate is a friends-to-lovers, forced proximity, virgin, small-town romance. These soulmates' rocky road to HEA is paved with a wounded hero, sweet and steady heroine, rescue dog named Thor who is...wait for it...afraid of thunder, well-meaning (read: meddling) family members with behind-the-scenes plots and schemes, and an abundance of swoon-worthy awws, chuckle-inducing hahas, and ohs so hot you may need to fan yourself. Disclaimer: fan not included in purchase.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2022
256 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Shawn
133 books1,849 followersNEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY bestselling author Melanie Shawn writes HEAs filled with sweet and sassy heroines, heroes who are cinnamon rolls in the streets alpho-holes in the sheets, casts of supportive *cough: meddling* friends and family who put the fun in funny, toe-curling combustible heat, and sugary sweet “aww” moments that will have your hearts and e-readers melting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
January 30, 2022
It was so crazy that Audrey was in love with Josh since she was a little girl. Josh had been in the armed forces and had to leave because of an injury from an IED. I hated that he didn’t think he was good enough for Audrey because of his emotional problems and an another important issue. Luckily the two were best friends and were able to spend time together. Audrey’s sister Viv knew that Audrey was in love with Josh, and Josh’s Nonna knew Josh had feelings for Audrey but wouldn’t do anything about it. I loved that Nonna and Viv got together to bring a single’s Valentines Week in Hope Springs. I loved that they had another plan that had to do with Audrey and Josh to go along with it. It is a cute story that I encourage you to read. I was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.
January 30, 2022
Friends-to-lovers amazingness! Audrey had loved Josh since she was four. Josh is a bit broken after recovering from the blast that kicked him out of the military. But being best friends was all he thought he could give her. Viv and Nonna are up to no good, but ends up being the best thing for both of them! The Hope Falls Effect strikes again with a little help from the people that make Hope Falls amazing!
February 1, 2022
4.5 stars
Resisting Fate is the 3rd book in the authors 4 book Brewed Awakenings series spinoff of their original immensely popular Hope Falls series. Brewed Awakenings is the name of the coffee shop the Wells sisters opened some eight years ago in Hope Falls run by the two youngest sisters Vivian and Audrey. Their two older sisters Grace and Ava the subjects of the first two books are silent partners in the business. The series revolves around the 4 sisters finding love. Cora Wells the women’s late mother strongly believed in the role fate plays in our lives. Which is why each of the books in this series has Fate in the title and why Audrey and Josh resisting their attraction to each other for the past eight years is the reason for this book’s title, Resisting Fate. This story can easily be read as a standalone because the authors devote quite a bit of time to the backstories of all four sisters. Grace and Ava are now both engaged to be married with Ava’s Valentine’s Day wedding fast approaching, leaving the younger two to find true love. You may not know all the town’s characters or a few from the authors other series that have been introduced over the years that make appearances in this story, but you will know all about the Wells sisters and we’ll even meet a couple of new characters like a yoga instructor and a pastor whom I suspect will get future books.
This is the story of Audrey Wells youngest of the four sisters whom are all less than a year apart in age, have the same curvaceous Sofia Vergara body but distinctly different personalities. Audrey is a quiet introvert. She’s warm and friendly and she’s very active volunteering in the Hope Falls community. She just doesn’t like being the center of attention. One thing the sisters all have in common besides their curvaceous physiques and fierce loyalty to one another is emotional baggage from their parents relationship or lack of relationship. Dad bailed on the family when Audrey was only 2 years old leaving their single mom to raise them by herself. Despite this her mother until her death when Audrey was only 14 declared their father was the love of her life. None of the girls can really grasp how their mother could still love the man who abandoned them? If that's what love does to you they'd rather not. This is why it wasn’t until recently, now all into their thirties that the sisters are beginning to trust their hearts and settle down. Audrey despite being beautiful both inside and out is still a virgin as her 33rd birthday is fast approaching and much of it has to do with the residual damage of her parents dysfunctional relationship. She only dated one boy in high school who turned out to be gay and didn’t date at all in college. Audrey has been in love with Josh who runs an auto repair shop just down the street from her coffee shop since she was 4 years old. But as is typical for friends to lovers tropes they’ve friend zoned each other and are afraid to try and make their all important friendship more for fear it could ruin the relationship they already have. One fact I found totally surprising in this story was the revelation that Audrey who seemed like a born nurturer had absolutely no interest in being a mother. In fact she felt so strongly about it that as much as she loved Josh, she’d be willing to walk away from the chance to have a relationship with him if he wanted kids.
Josh has other reasons beyond not wanting to mess up their friendship for not pursuing a romantic relationship with his BFF, the woman he loves and adores. His family situation if possible was even worse than the Wells sisters. At least they had one loving parent for most of the time they were growing up. His father was an alcoholic who pretty much ignored him and his mother had mental problems leading to substance abuse problems and was in and mostly out of his life growing up. Which of course left Josh with abandonment and insecurity issues because if your own mother doesn’t love you…..He was raised mostly by his beloved grandmother Nonna now in her nineties and still going strong. Josh feels his gene pool is not something he wants to pass along to another generation. Not that it really matters because a childhood motor biking accident left him sterile. So giving Audrey the family he believes she wants is not an option for him. Josh is also a military veteran who was discharged after being seriously injured when an IED took out most of his unit. This left him with chronic back pain, PTSD and depression and night terrors. Josh is determined to be a martyr for unrequited love to allow Audrey to find happiness in the arms of a better man.
Vivian the Jessica Rabbit doppelganger, with the “Wild Child” force of nature personality to match teams up with Nonna her sixty years older kindred spirit in an elaborate scheme to keep pushing these two together until they can no longer resist their attraction to one another which involves creating an elaborate Valentine Week marketing campaign that involves the entire town. While this manipulation is going on and perhaps because of it as well as her approaching birthday Audrey’s frustrations over the possibility of still being a virgin at 33 and her lack of the physical intimacy she craves with Josh is growing. She wants to lose her virginity and she wants to lose it to Josh and she’s just about desperate enough to break out of her own comfort zone to get out of their friend zone. Of course Audrey has no clue as to all the issues Josh has that have been holding him back from doing the same with her for all of these years. Despite his concerns Josh is finding it harder and harder to ignore the physical pull he feels towards Audrey and keep her at arm's length. This scheme that continues to put them in close physical proximity in romantic situations is breaking down his will power. When Audrey reveals to him on one of these setups that she’s never dated and is still a virgin at almost 33 it blows Josh’s mind to the point its all he can think about. Knowing he could be the first man to touch Audrey puts his primal possessive instincts into overdrive. It’s only a matter of time before these two can no longer resist their attraction and Josh cashes Audrey’s V-card. But even after that happens these two still struggle to as Nonna says, “Get their heads out of their butts..” and find their happily ever after. Good thing they have Vivian and Nonna to push them into their future or the Hope Falls Effect might take another eight years to work its magic.
Somewhere between Audrey overcoming her fear of going after what she really wants and Josh figuring out he’s worthy of her the authors do touch upon some serious issues. Of course as is almost mandatory in contemporary romance the way our relationships with our parents impact our relationships with others. But there’s also how our military combat veterans struggle with physical and psychological wounds as Josh suffers with PTSD, chronic pain and depression. There’s the question of what age is appropriate to offer birth control to a teenaged daughter? There’s the topic of how society views healthy young women who don’t want to be mothers. As per usual with these authors I truly enjoyed Josh and Audrey’s journey to love.
I can’t wait for Viv’s book Flirting with Fate to be released in March. Beneath all of her sass and bravado I suspect is hiding a very vulnerable woman who is waiting for a man strong enough for her to trust with her tender and bruised heart.
Resisting Fate is the 3rd book in the authors 4 book Brewed Awakenings series spinoff of their original immensely popular Hope Falls series. Brewed Awakenings is the name of the coffee shop the Wells sisters opened some eight years ago in Hope Falls run by the two youngest sisters Vivian and Audrey. Their two older sisters Grace and Ava the subjects of the first two books are silent partners in the business. The series revolves around the 4 sisters finding love. Cora Wells the women’s late mother strongly believed in the role fate plays in our lives. Which is why each of the books in this series has Fate in the title and why Audrey and Josh resisting their attraction to each other for the past eight years is the reason for this book’s title, Resisting Fate. This story can easily be read as a standalone because the authors devote quite a bit of time to the backstories of all four sisters. Grace and Ava are now both engaged to be married with Ava’s Valentine’s Day wedding fast approaching, leaving the younger two to find true love. You may not know all the town’s characters or a few from the authors other series that have been introduced over the years that make appearances in this story, but you will know all about the Wells sisters and we’ll even meet a couple of new characters like a yoga instructor and a pastor whom I suspect will get future books.
This is the story of Audrey Wells youngest of the four sisters whom are all less than a year apart in age, have the same curvaceous Sofia Vergara body but distinctly different personalities. Audrey is a quiet introvert. She’s warm and friendly and she’s very active volunteering in the Hope Falls community. She just doesn’t like being the center of attention. One thing the sisters all have in common besides their curvaceous physiques and fierce loyalty to one another is emotional baggage from their parents relationship or lack of relationship. Dad bailed on the family when Audrey was only 2 years old leaving their single mom to raise them by herself. Despite this her mother until her death when Audrey was only 14 declared their father was the love of her life. None of the girls can really grasp how their mother could still love the man who abandoned them? If that's what love does to you they'd rather not. This is why it wasn’t until recently, now all into their thirties that the sisters are beginning to trust their hearts and settle down. Audrey despite being beautiful both inside and out is still a virgin as her 33rd birthday is fast approaching and much of it has to do with the residual damage of her parents dysfunctional relationship. She only dated one boy in high school who turned out to be gay and didn’t date at all in college. Audrey has been in love with Josh who runs an auto repair shop just down the street from her coffee shop since she was 4 years old. But as is typical for friends to lovers tropes they’ve friend zoned each other and are afraid to try and make their all important friendship more for fear it could ruin the relationship they already have. One fact I found totally surprising in this story was the revelation that Audrey who seemed like a born nurturer had absolutely no interest in being a mother. In fact she felt so strongly about it that as much as she loved Josh, she’d be willing to walk away from the chance to have a relationship with him if he wanted kids.
Josh has other reasons beyond not wanting to mess up their friendship for not pursuing a romantic relationship with his BFF, the woman he loves and adores. His family situation if possible was even worse than the Wells sisters. At least they had one loving parent for most of the time they were growing up. His father was an alcoholic who pretty much ignored him and his mother had mental problems leading to substance abuse problems and was in and mostly out of his life growing up. Which of course left Josh with abandonment and insecurity issues because if your own mother doesn’t love you…..He was raised mostly by his beloved grandmother Nonna now in her nineties and still going strong. Josh feels his gene pool is not something he wants to pass along to another generation. Not that it really matters because a childhood motor biking accident left him sterile. So giving Audrey the family he believes she wants is not an option for him. Josh is also a military veteran who was discharged after being seriously injured when an IED took out most of his unit. This left him with chronic back pain, PTSD and depression and night terrors. Josh is determined to be a martyr for unrequited love to allow Audrey to find happiness in the arms of a better man.
Vivian the Jessica Rabbit doppelganger, with the “Wild Child” force of nature personality to match teams up with Nonna her sixty years older kindred spirit in an elaborate scheme to keep pushing these two together until they can no longer resist their attraction to one another which involves creating an elaborate Valentine Week marketing campaign that involves the entire town. While this manipulation is going on and perhaps because of it as well as her approaching birthday Audrey’s frustrations over the possibility of still being a virgin at 33 and her lack of the physical intimacy she craves with Josh is growing. She wants to lose her virginity and she wants to lose it to Josh and she’s just about desperate enough to break out of her own comfort zone to get out of their friend zone. Of course Audrey has no clue as to all the issues Josh has that have been holding him back from doing the same with her for all of these years. Despite his concerns Josh is finding it harder and harder to ignore the physical pull he feels towards Audrey and keep her at arm's length. This scheme that continues to put them in close physical proximity in romantic situations is breaking down his will power. When Audrey reveals to him on one of these setups that she’s never dated and is still a virgin at almost 33 it blows Josh’s mind to the point its all he can think about. Knowing he could be the first man to touch Audrey puts his primal possessive instincts into overdrive. It’s only a matter of time before these two can no longer resist their attraction and Josh cashes Audrey’s V-card. But even after that happens these two still struggle to as Nonna says, “Get their heads out of their butts..” and find their happily ever after. Good thing they have Vivian and Nonna to push them into their future or the Hope Falls Effect might take another eight years to work its magic.
Somewhere between Audrey overcoming her fear of going after what she really wants and Josh figuring out he’s worthy of her the authors do touch upon some serious issues. Of course as is almost mandatory in contemporary romance the way our relationships with our parents impact our relationships with others. But there’s also how our military combat veterans struggle with physical and psychological wounds as Josh suffers with PTSD, chronic pain and depression. There’s the question of what age is appropriate to offer birth control to a teenaged daughter? There’s the topic of how society views healthy young women who don’t want to be mothers. As per usual with these authors I truly enjoyed Josh and Audrey’s journey to love.
I can’t wait for Viv’s book Flirting with Fate to be released in March. Beneath all of her sass and bravado I suspect is hiding a very vulnerable woman who is waiting for a man strong enough for her to trust with her tender and bruised heart.
August 31, 2024
We finally get Josh and Audrey’s book. They’ve been flying around each other of years both of them in love with one another. Audrey is too scared to tell him and Josh Thinks he’s not good enough for Audrey. That is until these two best friends keep finding themselves pushed together. Such a cute friends to lovers
June 6, 2022
Well done!! I wasn’t sure how a virgin good girl and a mental health mess of a man were going to do it but this was awesome!
August 27, 2022
Resisting Fate
Josh and Audrey
Book 3
Best friends to lovers, slow burn
Two hearts that are in desperate need of love. Two stubborn people afraid of speaking up and losing everything.
Audrey. The youngest of the Wells sisters. Owns the local coffee shop with her sister Viv. The shy, innocent introvert of the sisters. More comfortable pulling out a book in public than engaging in small talk. Fell in love with Josh when she first met him at four years old, when he rescued her. Moved to Hope Falls in hopes of getting closer to him. Became his best friend, and watched from across the street as he lived his life separate from her.
Josh. Owns and operates a garage he inherited from his dad. His ninety two year old Nonna is the only family he claims. Suffered a career ending injury while serving in the Army. Now suffers with chronic back pain, depression, PTSD, and night terrors. Considers himself mentally, physically and emotionally broken. And definitely not good enough for Audrey.
I really liked both Josh and Audrey. On the outside, they don’t appear to be a good fit, but the more they open up to each other, the more you see just how perfect they are for each other.
I loved Nonna. She had a small roll in the story, but she was definitely a take no nonsense spitfire. She was adorable.
What I struggled with was the slow burn aspect of this story. I get the premise, and because of certain situations, things needed to move a bit slow. The constant push and pull between them. Josh was one step forward, two steps back in regards to everything Audrey. They don’t even share a kiss until well past halfway into the book. The majority of the story is made up with these “situations” they are put in by Nonna and Viv, in their attempt at matchmaking. They were cute, but, for me took up too much of the story.
I really wanted more of the first two couples. Other than a few mentions during wedding prep and then Ava’s wedding day, they are not anywhere in the story.
And an epilogue. The story does have a happy ending, they work everything out, and then the story ends. I missed an epilogue.
Overall it was a sweet story of best friends finally realizing they’ve loved each other for years.
It’s relatively drama free, no cheating. Dual points of view.
Josh and Audrey
Book 3
Best friends to lovers, slow burn
Two hearts that are in desperate need of love. Two stubborn people afraid of speaking up and losing everything.
Audrey. The youngest of the Wells sisters. Owns the local coffee shop with her sister Viv. The shy, innocent introvert of the sisters. More comfortable pulling out a book in public than engaging in small talk. Fell in love with Josh when she first met him at four years old, when he rescued her. Moved to Hope Falls in hopes of getting closer to him. Became his best friend, and watched from across the street as he lived his life separate from her.
Josh. Owns and operates a garage he inherited from his dad. His ninety two year old Nonna is the only family he claims. Suffered a career ending injury while serving in the Army. Now suffers with chronic back pain, depression, PTSD, and night terrors. Considers himself mentally, physically and emotionally broken. And definitely not good enough for Audrey.
I really liked both Josh and Audrey. On the outside, they don’t appear to be a good fit, but the more they open up to each other, the more you see just how perfect they are for each other.
I loved Nonna. She had a small roll in the story, but she was definitely a take no nonsense spitfire. She was adorable.
What I struggled with was the slow burn aspect of this story. I get the premise, and because of certain situations, things needed to move a bit slow. The constant push and pull between them. Josh was one step forward, two steps back in regards to everything Audrey. They don’t even share a kiss until well past halfway into the book. The majority of the story is made up with these “situations” they are put in by Nonna and Viv, in their attempt at matchmaking. They were cute, but, for me took up too much of the story.
I really wanted more of the first two couples. Other than a few mentions during wedding prep and then Ava’s wedding day, they are not anywhere in the story.
And an epilogue. The story does have a happy ending, they work everything out, and then the story ends. I missed an epilogue.
Overall it was a sweet story of best friends finally realizing they’ve loved each other for years.
It’s relatively drama free, no cheating. Dual points of view.
January 28, 2022
I always enjoy coming back to Hope Falls and the stories of the Wells sisters in this Brewed Awakenings series have been so enjoyable!
Audrey Wells came to Hope Falls many years ago to open Brewed Awakenings with her sister Vivian. So much of her life revolves around the coffee shop and her best friend, Josh, who she also harbors romantic feelings for. She would like nothing more than to take her friendship with Josh to the next level, but she doesn't think he has the same type feelings for her that she does for him.
Josh Bianchi has not had the easiest life. His childhood was anything but easy and having served in the army and living through an IED explosion have also caused some lasting effects with both physical and emotional traumas. While Audrey is as important to him as he is to her, his past history gives him pause and he doesn't believe he can give Audrey everything she needs/wants in life.
Audrey and Josh seem to find themselves around each other more often than normal. With the planning of an upcoming singles event, they are helping out Audrey's sister and Josh's Nonna, who are the co-chairs of the event which leads to them trying out some very interesting experiences. Will this forced proximity help them to admit not only to one another, but to themselves, that they belong together?
Audrey and Josh were both great characters. They both had their own struggles, but their friendship gave them a great base to grow a deeper relationship both as a couple and individually. The supporting characters also add richness to this story and I'm looking forward to the last book in this series as well!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Audrey Wells came to Hope Falls many years ago to open Brewed Awakenings with her sister Vivian. So much of her life revolves around the coffee shop and her best friend, Josh, who she also harbors romantic feelings for. She would like nothing more than to take her friendship with Josh to the next level, but she doesn't think he has the same type feelings for her that she does for him.
Josh Bianchi has not had the easiest life. His childhood was anything but easy and having served in the army and living through an IED explosion have also caused some lasting effects with both physical and emotional traumas. While Audrey is as important to him as he is to her, his past history gives him pause and he doesn't believe he can give Audrey everything she needs/wants in life.
Audrey and Josh seem to find themselves around each other more often than normal. With the planning of an upcoming singles event, they are helping out Audrey's sister and Josh's Nonna, who are the co-chairs of the event which leads to them trying out some very interesting experiences. Will this forced proximity help them to admit not only to one another, but to themselves, that they belong together?
Audrey and Josh were both great characters. They both had their own struggles, but their friendship gave them a great base to grow a deeper relationship both as a couple and individually. The supporting characters also add richness to this story and I'm looking forward to the last book in this series as well!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
January 30, 2022
Oh how I love a friends to lovers romance. This was beautifully written and I loved Audrey and Josh. Josh’s back story was full of pain and tragedy and I could totally empathise with why he thought Audrey was better off with some one else, yet at the same time he was always so honest and raw with her during their friendship. I loved his connection to Thor and had a chuckle along with Josh about Thor the God of thunder being scared of lightening.
Audrey fell in love when she was 4 years old with Josh and I loved how she remained true to heart and then got the courage to tell him finally and get things moving- with a little help from Viv and Nonna!
All the popular tv references were very welcome and in many ways allowed me to connect with the characters and storyline a lot more.
The ending was so swoony, I loved that they were back to the first meeting spot.
I can’t wait to read the next book about Viv.
Audrey fell in love when she was 4 years old with Josh and I loved how she remained true to heart and then got the courage to tell him finally and get things moving- with a little help from Viv and Nonna!
All the popular tv references were very welcome and in many ways allowed me to connect with the characters and storyline a lot more.
The ending was so swoony, I loved that they were back to the first meeting spot.
I can’t wait to read the next book about Viv.
January 30, 2022
This was another wonderful story in this series. One that will grab your attention from the first page to the last.
This time, Audrey, the youngest of the Wells sisters, gets her story.
Audrey, who owns with her sisters the local coffee cafe, and loves all Gilmore Girls things, has been in love with her best friend, Josh Bianchi, most of her life.
Josh owns the auto shop next to the cafe. He’s a man who after serving his country, came back in physical pain due to a mission gone wrong and is dealing with PTSD and nightmares. A man who feels he would never be good enough for Audrey.
Neither expected that fate and the dynamic duo of Viv (Audrey’s sister) and Josh’s grandmother Nonna, would interfere.
Will Josh realize that he can find his HEA with Audrey? Will Audrey be able to show Josh that he is perfect for her?
With an engaging plot and likable plus complex characters, you will fall in love with not only the story , but also the entire cast of characters.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This time, Audrey, the youngest of the Wells sisters, gets her story.
Audrey, who owns with her sisters the local coffee cafe, and loves all Gilmore Girls things, has been in love with her best friend, Josh Bianchi, most of her life.
Josh owns the auto shop next to the cafe. He’s a man who after serving his country, came back in physical pain due to a mission gone wrong and is dealing with PTSD and nightmares. A man who feels he would never be good enough for Audrey.
Neither expected that fate and the dynamic duo of Viv (Audrey’s sister) and Josh’s grandmother Nonna, would interfere.
Will Josh realize that he can find his HEA with Audrey? Will Audrey be able to show Josh that he is perfect for her?
With an engaging plot and likable plus complex characters, you will fall in love with not only the story , but also the entire cast of characters.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 30, 2022
What can I say about this book but fabulous love story with many surprises and so much emotions that you can not put it down!! I totally love the Wells sisters but I was happy to finally get Audrey's love story!! It took a lot of courage and determination but she finally has Josh's attention!! Get to know this couple better and how they managed to cope handling this relationship full of road bumps!! It helps when you have a meddling sister Viv and Nonna who conspire to be cupid for this couple!! The road is long but thank goodness they finally make it to their HEA!! Now all we need is to see Vivian fall for her forever love!! Can't wait for the next book!! Stand alone read but best read in order!! Go grab this book and enjoy this fabulously steamy love story!!
January 31, 2022
Hope Falls is a wonderful small, fictional town where love seemingly ignites or the “Hope Falls Effect” occurs. Growing up in a small community, this book brings back great memories. Audrey Wells has always loved Josh since being a young child. Her return, several years ago to Hope Falls, has reignited her feelings within her, but Audrey never acted on them other than a strong friendship. With the help of her friends and sisters, those hidden emotions started to surface. Josh has many demons from his past that needed to address, including his increasing feelings for Audrey. An employee of Audrey’s gives her some advice that makes her question her past and how she needs to pursue her happily ever after. The Wells sisters are a force to reckon with and love. This is a sexy, funny, and emotional story! The “Three Rule Challenge” plays important part in her future.
January 30, 2022
What is not to love about this third installment in this series. It is set in a small town, you have well meaning relatives giving a helping hand, and it is such a sweet, and fun read. Josh and Audrey were perfect for each other. Audrey have been in love with Josh forever and Josh has feelings for her but he will not let himself go there because he doesn't feel like he is good enough for her. This is where they are given a helping hand! This is a super cute read you don't want to pass on. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2022
An allergic reaction to his sexiness?
Or sexual tension?
A journey of self discovery for both Audrey and Josh, with assistance (also known as interference) from Viv and Nonna! How could they possibly resist?
Blindfolds, sexy yoga, adopting a rescue puppy, steamy kisses Josh dancing, dirty talking, motorbike riding, cookie baking....I love you's. We already love both Audrey and Josh, they already love each other...they just need to admit it to themselves! This is a crazy, fun filled, heartwarming visit to Hope Falls...exactly what we expect! Loved it!
Or sexual tension?
A journey of self discovery for both Audrey and Josh, with assistance (also known as interference) from Viv and Nonna! How could they possibly resist?
Blindfolds, sexy yoga, adopting a rescue puppy, steamy kisses Josh dancing, dirty talking, motorbike riding, cookie baking....I love you's. We already love both Audrey and Josh, they already love each other...they just need to admit it to themselves! This is a crazy, fun filled, heartwarming visit to Hope Falls...exactly what we expect! Loved it!
February 10, 2022
Melanie Shawn has done it again with another fantastic book, bringing us Josh and Audrey's story in Resisting Fate. This title really does ring true because these two have been connected to one another since they were both young kids in Hope Falls.
Josh returned from the military with loads of issues. He feels like given his past and current circumstances, he isn't a good fit long term for anyone, least of all Audrey. He's had his eye on her for 8 years now since his return, but cannot let anything happen between them because he doesn't want to risk ruining their friendship. Of course, life has other plans for Josh and Audrey. Throw in one meddling grandmother and a pesky red headed sister, plus a Valentine's Week in Hope Falls, and you might just have the perfect recipe for an HEA.
I really empathized with Josh's character in this book. He was such a good many in so many ways, but still felt he didn't deserve Audrey's love. Audrey was all around a fantastic heroine. She's always been more of a wallflower amongst her sisters, and has always struggled with taking big risks. She prefers reading about it in her books instead. When she's given the chance to change things with Josh, she takes it. Totally out of character for her.
Really enjoyed the development of this story and their relationship. The secondary characters also added another layer I loved. Looking forward to seeing what, or better yet, WHO is in store for Viv!!
Josh returned from the military with loads of issues. He feels like given his past and current circumstances, he isn't a good fit long term for anyone, least of all Audrey. He's had his eye on her for 8 years now since his return, but cannot let anything happen between them because he doesn't want to risk ruining their friendship. Of course, life has other plans for Josh and Audrey. Throw in one meddling grandmother and a pesky red headed sister, plus a Valentine's Week in Hope Falls, and you might just have the perfect recipe for an HEA.
I really empathized with Josh's character in this book. He was such a good many in so many ways, but still felt he didn't deserve Audrey's love. Audrey was all around a fantastic heroine. She's always been more of a wallflower amongst her sisters, and has always struggled with taking big risks. She prefers reading about it in her books instead. When she's given the chance to change things with Josh, she takes it. Totally out of character for her.
Really enjoyed the development of this story and their relationship. The secondary characters also added another layer I loved. Looking forward to seeing what, or better yet, WHO is in store for Viv!!
February 14, 2022
This was such a beautiful, sweet story. The characters were phenomenal. This is a must read.
Josh is a small-town guy who returned to his hometown after being medically discharged from service. He has back issues and night terrors. But even with all he’s been through and still going through he is a stand-up guy and a good friend, actually a best friend, to the one woman he loves but knows he can never have because his feels she deserves someone not broken and that can give her a family.
Audrey moved to Hope Falls with hopes of making her dream come true, living in a small town, and opening her own coffee shop. She didn’t realize moving to Hope Falls would put her in touch with the one man she has loved since being a small child, when he “saved” her. Josh is not only her friend but over the years since moving there he has become her best friend.
Luckily for both Josh and Audrey, both Josh’s grandmother and Audrey’s sister decide to step in and plot a plan to get these two to finally admit their feelings for each other, Project Valentine!
Fall in love with Josh and Audrey as they find their way to their HEA.
Josh is a small-town guy who returned to his hometown after being medically discharged from service. He has back issues and night terrors. But even with all he’s been through and still going through he is a stand-up guy and a good friend, actually a best friend, to the one woman he loves but knows he can never have because his feels she deserves someone not broken and that can give her a family.
Audrey moved to Hope Falls with hopes of making her dream come true, living in a small town, and opening her own coffee shop. She didn’t realize moving to Hope Falls would put her in touch with the one man she has loved since being a small child, when he “saved” her. Josh is not only her friend but over the years since moving there he has become her best friend.
Luckily for both Josh and Audrey, both Josh’s grandmother and Audrey’s sister decide to step in and plot a plan to get these two to finally admit their feelings for each other, Project Valentine!
Fall in love with Josh and Audrey as they find their way to their HEA.
January 28, 2022
I am a huge Gilmore Girls fan so when Audrey starts out by coming Josh to Luke, I’m a sucker. Luckily for me the book kept getting bigger. I love the friendship/relationship of Josh and Audrey.
I will say from the beginning that I thought there was a little something fishy going on with Viv and Nonnative but I didn’t know to what extent.
It’s another great book for Melanie Shawn and one you definitely need to add to your list.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I will say from the beginning that I thought there was a little something fishy going on with Viv and Nonnative but I didn’t know to what extent.
It’s another great book for Melanie Shawn and one you definitely need to add to your list.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
January 29, 2022
Heartfelt, sexy, funny & moving.
This small-town romance is a
very enjoyable read!
Audrey & Josh, have loved each
other from a fair for many years.
Audrey, didn't know what she
needed to do to get her best friend,
Josh, to open his eyes & heart to her.
Josh, came back from serving our
country emotionally & physically
in pain. He feels Audrey deserves
someone better than him.
Can not wait for Viv's story!
I truly enjoyed reading it from the
first to last page!!
This small-town romance is a
very enjoyable read!
Audrey & Josh, have loved each
other from a fair for many years.
Audrey, didn't know what she
needed to do to get her best friend,
Josh, to open his eyes & heart to her.
Josh, came back from serving our
country emotionally & physically
in pain. He feels Audrey deserves
someone better than him.
Can not wait for Viv's story!
I truly enjoyed reading it from the
first to last page!!
January 30, 2022
Josh and Audrey are best friends and are in love with each other. But neither has expressed their feelings, Josh because he thinks he is not good enough for her and Audrey because she is shy. Nothing would have changed in their relationship had it not been for the dynamic duo Viv, Audrey’s sister and Nonna, Josh’s grandma. They keep coming up with ways to have Josh and Audrey meet in romantic settings with the excuse of planning the Singles week.
The chemistry between them was super hot, and I loved the connection/relationship between Audrey and Josh.
Can’t wait to read Viv’s book.
The chemistry between them was super hot, and I loved the connection/relationship between Audrey and Josh.
Can’t wait to read Viv’s book.
January 30, 2022
Audrey was happily living her perfect life in Hope Falls except for one thing, she is in love with her best friend. Josh, her best friend, feels the same way but doesn’t think he is good enough for Audrey. But the magic of Hope Falls (and meddling family and friends) means that true love will always find a way. This was another gem by Melanie Shawn. I loved both of these characters and enjoyed this story!
February 20, 2022
Friends to Lovers is the latest story in Hope Falls. Audrey and Josh met when Audrey was 4. Now Audrey is back in Hope Falls and owns a coffee shop. Her and Josh have fallen into a routine of movie night, bowling, and everything else that friends do. Everybody else knows they are meant for each other so along come her sister and Josh's grandma to make it happen.
Never a dull moment in this fun fictional town.
Never a dull moment in this fun fictional town.
January 30, 2022
Enjoyable read about Josh and Audrey who have in love forever, but stayed in friend zone. However, the town of Hope Falls never fails at helping those who hesitate to find love. Constant shenanigans put this couple in some unusual places. This couple was sweet, a little slow going at first but was worth the wait. Another hit ladies. I was given this ARC for my honest opinion.
February 5, 2022
Resisting Fate by Melanie Shawn, book three in their Brewed Awakenings series, is an amazing friends-to-lovers story featuring the youngest Wells sister, Audrey. This is a heart-warming story filled with family love, behind-the-scenes shenanigans, meddling family members, and some rescue animals that will steal your heart.
Audrey decided Hope Falls was the best place to open a coffee shop, Brewed Awakenings, with her sister Vivian. Audrey’s life is focused on her coffee shop, her volunteer work around town, and time with her best friend Josh. Josh Bianchi has not had the easiest life. His childhood was anything but easy as well as his time serving in the army and then surviving an IED explosion, with had some lasting effects, both physical and emotional traumas. While Audrey is as important to him as he is to her, his past history has him believing that he’s not the man who can give Audrey everything she needs, wants, or deserves in life. Vivian and Nonna are up to no good, planning a Singles event for Valentine’s Day, which ends up being the best thing to finally bring Josh and Audrey together and admitting their true feelings. Once again, the Hope Falls Effect strikes, especially with a little help from the people that make Hope Falls amazing
Melanie Shawn wrote an amazing friends-to-lovers story that should not be missed. They provided a tale rich with emotions, magnetic attraction, off-the-charts sizzling chemistry, family encouragement, meddling and believing in love, all makes for an enjoyable journey for Audrey and Josh and their happy ever after. I highly recommend Resisting Fate and am looking forward to the Vivian’s story, which is in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Audrey decided Hope Falls was the best place to open a coffee shop, Brewed Awakenings, with her sister Vivian. Audrey’s life is focused on her coffee shop, her volunteer work around town, and time with her best friend Josh. Josh Bianchi has not had the easiest life. His childhood was anything but easy as well as his time serving in the army and then surviving an IED explosion, with had some lasting effects, both physical and emotional traumas. While Audrey is as important to him as he is to her, his past history has him believing that he’s not the man who can give Audrey everything she needs, wants, or deserves in life. Vivian and Nonna are up to no good, planning a Singles event for Valentine’s Day, which ends up being the best thing to finally bring Josh and Audrey together and admitting their true feelings. Once again, the Hope Falls Effect strikes, especially with a little help from the people that make Hope Falls amazing
Melanie Shawn wrote an amazing friends-to-lovers story that should not be missed. They provided a tale rich with emotions, magnetic attraction, off-the-charts sizzling chemistry, family encouragement, meddling and believing in love, all makes for an enjoyable journey for Audrey and Josh and their happy ever after. I highly recommend Resisting Fate and am looking forward to the Vivian’s story, which is in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 14, 2022
Resisting Fate is the third installment of the Hope Falls: Brewed Awakening series by Melanie Shawn. It follows the youngest Wells sister, Audrey and her struggles with being in love with her best friend.
Audrey Wells is the nice one, the quiet one. She volunteers all of her time, makes baked goods for everyone, but doesn't seem to ever take time for herself.
Josh has been hiding his feelings for Audrey since she came back to town and opened Brewed Awakenings. He believes he's not good enough for her. But when Audrey reveals a secret that he really just can't ignore and makes him want her more.
Can Audrey force herself to finally put herself out there or is just too much baggage on Josh's side that will keep them apart?
I really enjoyed Josh and Audrey's story! The title is perfect for their journey! And I cannot wait for the next in the series!
Audrey Wells is the nice one, the quiet one. She volunteers all of her time, makes baked goods for everyone, but doesn't seem to ever take time for herself.
Josh has been hiding his feelings for Audrey since she came back to town and opened Brewed Awakenings. He believes he's not good enough for her. But when Audrey reveals a secret that he really just can't ignore and makes him want her more.
Can Audrey force herself to finally put herself out there or is just too much baggage on Josh's side that will keep them apart?
I really enjoyed Josh and Audrey's story! The title is perfect for their journey! And I cannot wait for the next in the series!
January 30, 2022
Audrey is ready to take a few chances and confess a few things to Josh. Josh does not feel he is good enough for her. I liked all the Gilmore Girls reference.
February 1, 2022
perfect weekend get away
Real. Hope-filled. All the feels.
Made me want to go back the the beginning ( with Amanda’s story) and re-read them all again.
A great heartwarming story that has you feeling every emotion along with the characters.
A happy and welcomed getaway!
Real. Hope-filled. All the feels.
Made me want to go back the the beginning ( with Amanda’s story) and re-read them all again.
A great heartwarming story that has you feeling every emotion along with the characters.
A happy and welcomed getaway!
February 7, 2022
You never really know if you are going to get an insta-love or slow burn story when you open a Melanie Shawn book and Resisting Fate was an exquisite slow burn!!!!
We have already gotten glimpses at Audrey and Josh in the previous books but there were many aspects I was not expecting that made this story so loveable. Audrey and Josh were so much fun to get to know. These two and their strong feelings for each other yet never voicing them had me cursing them in my head. The tension that is always surrounding these two was just as good as the sexy times. Josh is a way better man than he gives himself credit for. He has the restraint of a saint when it comes to Audrey and it was oh so good to finally see him break. It was even better seeing Audrey take control of her non-existent love life and go after what she has wanted for the last eight years (or quite frankly since the age of 4) and that is Josh.
The devious tactics used to bring these two together were absolute genius. This sucker screams slow burn for sure. As usual this Melanie Shawn story is filled with so many secondary characters you cannot help but love especially Nonna! Now ladies.....bring on Viv's story!!!!!
We have already gotten glimpses at Audrey and Josh in the previous books but there were many aspects I was not expecting that made this story so loveable. Audrey and Josh were so much fun to get to know. These two and their strong feelings for each other yet never voicing them had me cursing them in my head. The tension that is always surrounding these two was just as good as the sexy times. Josh is a way better man than he gives himself credit for. He has the restraint of a saint when it comes to Audrey and it was oh so good to finally see him break. It was even better seeing Audrey take control of her non-existent love life and go after what she has wanted for the last eight years (or quite frankly since the age of 4) and that is Josh.
The devious tactics used to bring these two together were absolute genius. This sucker screams slow burn for sure. As usual this Melanie Shawn story is filled with so many secondary characters you cannot help but love especially Nonna! Now ladies.....bring on Viv's story!!!!!
February 8, 2022
Totally loving this series! After getting to know Audrey and hearing about her and Josh’s friendship in the previous books, I pretty much knew what to expect out of this book, so nothing was necessarily a surprise, but either way it was a great read thanks to the amazing writing from these authors! Audrey and Josh have been best of friends for years, and they both are in love with each other yet denying it and unwilling to act on it out of fear that their feelings aren’t reciprocated. Thankfully, fate in the form of Josh’s grandmother and Audrey’s sister intervenes and decides enough is enough between these two and takes matters into their own hands by somewhat forcing these two to confront their feelings and give into the inevitable between them. This was such a sweet storyline between these two characters while also bringing to light PTSD and how that manifests itself into relationships as well, and I was so happy that these two got their HEA after years! I am definitely excited for Viv’s story though because of her personality and leaving the best for last!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 9, 2022
Josh comes back from the military to Hope Falls damaged to try to pick up the pieces of the life. He runs the autoshop that his dad left him to be near his grandma, Nonna. Just when he was feeling sorry for himself and his life, he turned around to look at the new shop opening across the street and sees his "angel".
Audrey came to Hope Falls to open Brewed Awakenings with her sister Vivian and the financial support of her other two sisters. When her mom was alive her mom always took the girls to Hope Falls for family vacations. A girl who watched "The Gilmore Girls", Hope Falls was her very own Stars Hollow, she was Lorelai and Josh was her Luke.
She watches her friend Josh from across the street and he comes into the coffee shop every day, neither one taking the extra step out of the friend zone. They just need a little nudge.
In comes Viv, Nonna and Valentines Week in Hope Falls. Viv and Nonna seem to be in over their heads and need the help of Josh and Audrey. Will the Hope Falls Effect work for them or will they remain friends who are constantly there for each other?
Audrey came to Hope Falls to open Brewed Awakenings with her sister Vivian and the financial support of her other two sisters. When her mom was alive her mom always took the girls to Hope Falls for family vacations. A girl who watched "The Gilmore Girls", Hope Falls was her very own Stars Hollow, she was Lorelai and Josh was her Luke.
She watches her friend Josh from across the street and he comes into the coffee shop every day, neither one taking the extra step out of the friend zone. They just need a little nudge.
In comes Viv, Nonna and Valentines Week in Hope Falls. Viv and Nonna seem to be in over their heads and need the help of Josh and Audrey. Will the Hope Falls Effect work for them or will they remain friends who are constantly there for each other?
February 6, 2022
Another wonderful book in the Brewed Awakenings series. From the beginning I loved the Gilmore Girls references throughout the book, which was one of my favorite shows way back when and the behind-the-scenes matchmaking skills of Viv and Nonna were so well planned and thought out. The dining in the dark event was fun and I also loved Viv with all the Hope Falls Effect swag, it made me want to go online and buy everything she mentioned, but I know that’s part of the story, but it would still be really cool in real life. I also liked the easter eggs showing up from other series in this book as well and one in particular had me smiling and yet I had a tear in my eye reading that part. Delightful story and Audrey and Josh were amazing characters, and the ending was beautiful. I am sad that this great series is ending but who knows what Melanie Shawn has planned for Hope Falls and maybe another visit down the road….? Loved this story and this couple. Cannot wait to read Viv’s upcoming book.
February 7, 2022
I love Hope Falls and Resisting fate is no exception.
This time we meet Audrey, the owner of Brewed awakening coffee shop.
Audrey has been in love with her best friend Josh since she was little, he's everything she could ever want in a man.
Josh is the perfect guy, hot, heart of gold, funny.. He also loves Audrey, but he wants more for her. Being in the army for 7 years and being blown up by an IED has left him with injuries, PTSD and anxiety. And he thinks he can't give her the things she needs. 1 night changes all that, but can he be brave enough to take the next step. Watching these two grow together is so sweet to watch. They both being out the best in each other and it always helps when Audeys sister and Josh's Nonna keep trying to set them up.
This time we meet Audrey, the owner of Brewed awakening coffee shop.
Audrey has been in love with her best friend Josh since she was little, he's everything she could ever want in a man.
Josh is the perfect guy, hot, heart of gold, funny.. He also loves Audrey, but he wants more for her. Being in the army for 7 years and being blown up by an IED has left him with injuries, PTSD and anxiety. And he thinks he can't give her the things she needs. 1 night changes all that, but can he be brave enough to take the next step. Watching these two grow together is so sweet to watch. They both being out the best in each other and it always helps when Audeys sister and Josh's Nonna keep trying to set them up.
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