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Bad Boy Bakers #1
Mixed Up with a Marine
Can a Marine turned baker and a jaded contractor find their way to a second chance?
Braxton Whitmore needs a change. After leaving the Marines, he’s free to build a new life. But is he gonna be a baker? Really? When his buddy inherits a decrepit bar and proposes they partner up to turn it into a bakery, Brax figures why not? Until his ex comes walking in.
Mia Whitmore has built a new life for herself, far from the heartbreak and secrets that tore her marriage apart. The last thing she expects is for her estranged husband to be business partners with her latest client. Or for Brax to think they’re already divorced.
As they’re forced into proximity on the renovation, truths come to light, and Brax and Mia get a second chance. But when past secrets become present danger, Brax puts everything on the line to protect the woman who’s always held his heart.
Braxton Whitmore needs a change. After leaving the Marines, he’s free to build a new life. But is he gonna be a baker? Really? When his buddy inherits a decrepit bar and proposes they partner up to turn it into a bakery, Brax figures why not? Until his ex comes walking in.
Mia Whitmore has built a new life for herself, far from the heartbreak and secrets that tore her marriage apart. The last thing she expects is for her estranged husband to be business partners with her latest client. Or for Brax to think they’re already divorced.
As they’re forced into proximity on the renovation, truths come to light, and Brax and Mia get a second chance. But when past secrets become present danger, Brax puts everything on the line to protect the woman who’s always held his heart.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2022
946 people are currently reading
1109 people want to read
About the author
Kait Nolan
154 books1,366 followersKait Nolan is a RITA® Award-winning Mississippi author who calls everyone sugar, honey, or darlin', and can wield a 'Bless your heart' like a Snuggie or a saber, depending on requirements. She believes in love, laughter, and that tacos are the world's most perfect food. When she's not writing, reading, working the evil day job, or wrangling family (both the two-legged and the four-), you can find her obsessively watching The Great British Bake Off.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 281 reviews
September 20, 2024
My first book by her and I ❤️❤️ it! I need more!
May 2, 2022
Note: This is book 1 in Nolan’s Bad Boy Bakers series. There’s a prequel novella, Rescued by a Bad Boy, that gives background on Brax & Mia. While not necessary to enjoy this story, I’d definitely recommend it. Also, fans of Nolan’s other series will recognize secondary characters, but those new to her work won’t be lost without that background.
I’m an unabashed fan of Nolan’s writing and this story is exactly why. So many emotions, angst but not without reason, chemistry, and a little bit of suspense.
This is a fantastic second chance, forced proximity romance where two people who are trying to get on with their lives. I don’t enjoy “big misunderstanding” tropes - but as always, Nolan writes it in a believable way that makes me truly believe what these characters went through. Brax & Mia made mistakes that young make, but mostly they were victims of circumstances completely outside of their control. I found myself in tears several times aching for both of them and what they lost.
Such a great couple and emotional story. I love their path and lovely HEA. I’m also totally ready for Holt & Kayla’s story, Wrapped up with a Ranger.
Narration:
Anyone who has followed me for more than five seconds knows how much I love Amy McFadden’s narrations. Paired with Ryan West made this a perfect listen. West's deep voice is swoon worthy. Both are a fantastic fit for Nolan’s writing: all the personalities, emotions, humor, suspense, and romance. They’re also great paired together and I’m looking forward to more of them through this series.
CW (spoilers):
I’m an unabashed fan of Nolan’s writing and this story is exactly why. So many emotions, angst but not without reason, chemistry, and a little bit of suspense.
This is a fantastic second chance, forced proximity romance where two people who are trying to get on with their lives. I don’t enjoy “big misunderstanding” tropes - but as always, Nolan writes it in a believable way that makes me truly believe what these characters went through. Brax & Mia made mistakes that young make, but mostly they were victims of circumstances completely outside of their control. I found myself in tears several times aching for both of them and what they lost.
Such a great couple and emotional story. I love their path and lovely HEA. I’m also totally ready for Holt & Kayla’s story, Wrapped up with a Ranger.
Narration:
Anyone who has followed me for more than five seconds knows how much I love Amy McFadden’s narrations. Paired with Ryan West made this a perfect listen. West's deep voice is swoon worthy. Both are a fantastic fit for Nolan’s writing: all the personalities, emotions, humor, suspense, and romance. They’re also great paired together and I’m looking forward to more of them through this series.
CW (spoilers):
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July 31, 2022Now available! https://books2read.com/badboybakers1
March 18, 2022
So much emotion in this book. Sadness, hope, anxiety, and humor are constantly keeping you on the edge of your seat. I read the prequel story first and it helped to fully tie the story together, but you aren't missing anything vital to the plot if you can't read it first. Brax and Mia are meant for each other and the epilogue has me anxiously waiting for Holt's story. I took away a star because I felt like part of the story was left unresolved and I was a little disappointed in how that part was wrapped up. Hopefully there are some more answers as we get to know these new members of the Eden's Ridge community better!. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2022
Wow !!!
What a fantastic start to the new Bad Boy Baker Series and if Braxton Whitmore and Mia Whitmore’s second chance love story is anything to go by Ms Nolan will certainly have a hit series on her hands.
Brax needs to sort his life out. After leaving the marines he decides to take his buddy up on turning the run down bar he has just inherited into a bakery. Ever is going to plan until his ex wife walks in…
Mia has a new life that doesn’t include Brax and he is the last person she expects to be business partners with her new client. So what happens second time around and has fate put them together for a reason …….
I loved everything about this book, I fell hard and fast for the characters and I adored their journey. I was captivated from the first page to the last line and now I’m excited for what’s to come with the rest of this series.
What a fantastic start to the new Bad Boy Baker Series and if Braxton Whitmore and Mia Whitmore’s second chance love story is anything to go by Ms Nolan will certainly have a hit series on her hands.
Brax needs to sort his life out. After leaving the marines he decides to take his buddy up on turning the run down bar he has just inherited into a bakery. Ever is going to plan until his ex wife walks in…
Mia has a new life that doesn’t include Brax and he is the last person she expects to be business partners with her new client. So what happens second time around and has fate put them together for a reason …….
I loved everything about this book, I fell hard and fast for the characters and I adored their journey. I was captivated from the first page to the last line and now I’m excited for what’s to come with the rest of this series.
November 22, 2022
A heartwarming and sexy second chance, small town romance with a lovely flavor of suspense to spice it up made my first encounter with Kait Nolan's book an engaging read.
Mixed Up with a Marine is the first in the Bad Boy Bakers series. This series is loosely connected to a few other series in the author's backlist like Misfit Inn and Rescue My Heart. It is also well worth the readers time to read the prequel first which gives a quick vignette of what came before for this couple in their late highschool/new adult years.
So, Brax is out of the Marines, gone through counseling and therapy, come out healing and coping better and with a new baking skill. He and two other military guys in the same therapy program head to a small town in Tennessee where his friend is from and the consider Jonah's inheritance of his dad's rundown bar as a site for their bakery. A consultation with a commercial building renovator from the area brings him face to face with his ex wife. Only, he and Mia aren't as legally past-tense as he thought.
Mia had dark secrets even from before the first time she was with Brax and she was told her life, and more importantly, Brax's life depended on her keeping her secrets and staying under the radar for someone from her family's past. At the time, she did the best she could with the choices she made, but her biggest choice cost her the love of her life. Even with the sabotage and mysterious happenings around the new project, her stupid heart is urging her to finally give Brax the truth and see what comes of it.
I enjoyed so much about this book. Beginning with Brax and his background with Mia in their shared horrid foster care situations that shaped a lot of their lives, his camaraderie with the other military guys in therapy, the guy bakers, Mia's talent at renovation work and her as a woman construction boss, the weird stuff going on, but mostly I was fully engaged with this pair of broken, hurting people find healing and renewed chances after some painful soul-searching and talking takes place.
Jonah's mom is the best book mom ever. This woman embraces not just her own children after an ugly marriage and divorce, but her heart is big enough for Jonah's friends, Brax and Hunt. I was almost teary-eyed when Brax got to feel and experience a real mom's love when she hugged, fed, housed, and listened to him in his darkest hour.
The suspense element was great for adding some additional pep to the spice and sweetness of the romance. I really want to see what comes next for the other two Bad Boy Bakers and go back for the other series set in this dreamy small southern town.
COYER Buddy Read with Brandee @ Unconventional Bookworm blog
Mixed Up with a Marine is the first in the Bad Boy Bakers series. This series is loosely connected to a few other series in the author's backlist like Misfit Inn and Rescue My Heart. It is also well worth the readers time to read the prequel first which gives a quick vignette of what came before for this couple in their late highschool/new adult years.
So, Brax is out of the Marines, gone through counseling and therapy, come out healing and coping better and with a new baking skill. He and two other military guys in the same therapy program head to a small town in Tennessee where his friend is from and the consider Jonah's inheritance of his dad's rundown bar as a site for their bakery. A consultation with a commercial building renovator from the area brings him face to face with his ex wife. Only, he and Mia aren't as legally past-tense as he thought.
Mia had dark secrets even from before the first time she was with Brax and she was told her life, and more importantly, Brax's life depended on her keeping her secrets and staying under the radar for someone from her family's past. At the time, she did the best she could with the choices she made, but her biggest choice cost her the love of her life. Even with the sabotage and mysterious happenings around the new project, her stupid heart is urging her to finally give Brax the truth and see what comes of it.
I enjoyed so much about this book. Beginning with Brax and his background with Mia in their shared horrid foster care situations that shaped a lot of their lives, his camaraderie with the other military guys in therapy, the guy bakers, Mia's talent at renovation work and her as a woman construction boss, the weird stuff going on, but mostly I was fully engaged with this pair of broken, hurting people find healing and renewed chances after some painful soul-searching and talking takes place.
Jonah's mom is the best book mom ever. This woman embraces not just her own children after an ugly marriage and divorce, but her heart is big enough for Jonah's friends, Brax and Hunt. I was almost teary-eyed when Brax got to feel and experience a real mom's love when she hugged, fed, housed, and listened to him in his darkest hour.
The suspense element was great for adding some additional pep to the spice and sweetness of the romance. I really want to see what comes next for the other two Bad Boy Bakers and go back for the other series set in this dreamy small southern town.
COYER Buddy Read with Brandee @ Unconventional Bookworm blog
March 24, 2022
I recommend you read Rescued By A Bad Boy(it's free) before you read this book. It's a prequel and explains Brax and Mia's beginnings.
Due to circumstances beyond their control, Brax and Mia haven't seen each other in ten years. They never stopped loving the other but both thought they would never get another chance. When fate brings them back together, they try to fight their feelings but it is a losing battle. These two are soulmates.
It was nice seeing old friends from Eden's Ridge.
I didn't give the book 5 stars because there was an unresolved issue--a big one. This is hard to explain without spoilers but I'll try. Mia's past was still a threat to Mia and everybody she cared about. One immediate danger had been dealt with but another would have taken its place. I also didn't really understand the vandalism caused by the immediate danger. It didn't make sense to me. That's all I can say without spoilers.
I urge you to read this book. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Due to circumstances beyond their control, Brax and Mia haven't seen each other in ten years. They never stopped loving the other but both thought they would never get another chance. When fate brings them back together, they try to fight their feelings but it is a losing battle. These two are soulmates.
It was nice seeing old friends from Eden's Ridge.
I didn't give the book 5 stars because there was an unresolved issue--a big one. This is hard to explain without spoilers but I'll try. Mia's past was still a threat to Mia and everybody she cared about. One immediate danger had been dealt with but another would have taken its place. I also didn't really understand the vandalism caused by the immediate danger. It didn't make sense to me. That's all I can say without spoilers.
I urge you to read this book. I look forward to the next book in the series.
March 17, 2022
Well, this one takes the cake. It’s somewhere between the Wishing for a Hero series and the original Misfit Inn books—meaning it has suspense and romance. Only a little heat in this one and the language isn’t bad considering the main characters survived war-literally. I could not put this one down. I’m already ready for the next one in the series! Kait’s books just keep getting better.. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2023
There is a lot going on in this book. Didn’t feel a lot of chemistry between the h/h and the plot was ridiculous. Also would have appreciated more of an explanation of what was going on with that since we spent so much time on it.
April 8, 2022
4.25 Stars! ❤️
Having read the prequel Rescued by a Bad Boy i could not contain my excitement for this book! It became an instant anticipated read of mine. I was so happy to pick up another of Ms.Nolan's books! I had to dive back into the Bad Boy Bakers world right away and reunite with these characters. I really enjoyed this story!
Mia and Braxton's journey pulled me in and didn't let go! I was so glad to be back in this world with these two! As they're brought back into each other's lives, i couldn't wait to see how things would play out for them. I really liked how i wasn't sure what all to expect in this book.
I enjoyed getting to see how these two would tackle the past as well as the present. I loved how i felt so much with Brax and Mia from beginning to end! The chemistry between these two was fantastic! I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with both of them as well!
With Mixed Up With A Marine, Ms.Nolan has created such a great read that i didn't want to put down! I can't wait to dive back into the Bad Boy Bakers world with the second installment Holt's book, Wrapped Up With A Ranger!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
Having read the prequel Rescued by a Bad Boy i could not contain my excitement for this book! It became an instant anticipated read of mine. I was so happy to pick up another of Ms.Nolan's books! I had to dive back into the Bad Boy Bakers world right away and reunite with these characters. I really enjoyed this story!
Mia and Braxton's journey pulled me in and didn't let go! I was so glad to be back in this world with these two! As they're brought back into each other's lives, i couldn't wait to see how things would play out for them. I really liked how i wasn't sure what all to expect in this book.
I enjoyed getting to see how these two would tackle the past as well as the present. I loved how i felt so much with Brax and Mia from beginning to end! The chemistry between these two was fantastic! I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with both of them as well!
With Mixed Up With A Marine, Ms.Nolan has created such a great read that i didn't want to put down! I can't wait to dive back into the Bad Boy Bakers world with the second installment Holt's book, Wrapped Up With A Ranger!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
April 1, 2022
Book one of this new spin-off series is written in third person from a dual perspective. I recommend readers read the prequel first to understand the depth of Brax and Mia’s relationship prior to them being apart. Book one picks up roughly ten years after the end of the prequel.
I love the history that Brax and Mia share. Mia has secrets that come to light over the course of the book. Once communication is restored and misunderstandings are cleared, there is an opportunity to reclaim their love. I adore them together. The depth of emotion, their history of friendship, the heat and chemistry between them, and the protectiveness Brax has toward Mia made me swoon. There are moments of danger. They also must overcome the things that happened to each of them while they were apart. There are moments of intense emotion. Their HEA is so, so sweet because of everything they have been through to get to that place.
I also loved the relationship Brax has with Jonah and Holt. Their brotherhood and the support they offer each other without question is something special. I am really looking forward to the other books in the series.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
I love the history that Brax and Mia share. Mia has secrets that come to light over the course of the book. Once communication is restored and misunderstandings are cleared, there is an opportunity to reclaim their love. I adore them together. The depth of emotion, their history of friendship, the heat and chemistry between them, and the protectiveness Brax has toward Mia made me swoon. There are moments of danger. They also must overcome the things that happened to each of them while they were apart. There are moments of intense emotion. Their HEA is so, so sweet because of everything they have been through to get to that place.
I also loved the relationship Brax has with Jonah and Holt. Their brotherhood and the support they offer each other without question is something special. I am really looking forward to the other books in the series.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
April 5, 2022
This was such a heart wrenching second chance romance. Braxton came to Eden’s Ridge with his two buddies he went through mental training after they all were hurt in the forces. I loved the training they went through—learning to bake! That sounds like something so different, but so rewarding. When the guys decided to turn Jonah’s dead father’s grody bar into a bakery business, they had a local contractor that Jonah knew to help with plans. Boy was Braxton shocked when his ex wife Mia showed up! He got an even bigger surprise when he found they were still married. The two had a hard life growing up in foster care where Braxton always watched over her to the point they got married when Mia was 18. Mia had secrets she never told Braxton. This started a domino affect where so many actions were taken for the wrong reasons. I was happy that Braxton finally listened to Mia about what had happened to her. Everything was looking good except for Luca who she had leaned on the last two years and problems with the construction site. It was so exciting at times. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
April 16, 2022
Admittedly, the second chance trope is one of my favorites. Even so, this one was really good!
My favorite part? There’s no long, drawn out drama in explaining what happened between the couple in the past - for either the reader, or the characters in the book. They are shocked to see each other after being apart for 10 years, then they talk and clear things up like rational, mature people. There was a lot of emotion, and lot of heartbreaking history, and I thoroughly enjoyed this second chance love story!
And another bonus (and I think this is a first for a Kait Nolan audiobook) - we got a male narrator! The female narrator who usually does Ms. Nolan’s books (Amy McFadden) did a fantastic job as usual. But it was great to have a male narrator as well!
Looking forward to the rest of this series!
My favorite part? There’s no long, drawn out drama in explaining what happened between the couple in the past - for either the reader, or the characters in the book. They are shocked to see each other after being apart for 10 years, then they talk and clear things up like rational, mature people. There was a lot of emotion, and lot of heartbreaking history, and I thoroughly enjoyed this second chance love story!
And another bonus (and I think this is a first for a Kait Nolan audiobook) - we got a male narrator! The female narrator who usually does Ms. Nolan’s books (Amy McFadden) did a fantastic job as usual. But it was great to have a male narrator as well!
Looking forward to the rest of this series!
April 5, 2022
Eden’s Ridge, Tennessee, is such a delightful location for so many of Kait Nolan’s books! This new series, Bad Boy Bakers, starts with Mia and Brax. You should their prequel, Rescued by a Bad Boy, for the full background! (And last I checked, it was a freebie on various platforms)
Mia co-owns a construction and renovation company and walks up to her new site…only to find her estranged husband, Brax, who walked away 10 years ago and ignored her letters. Brax, however, thinks that Mia left him. Will they get their second chance?
Kait Nolan does second chance romance SO WELL! Mia and Brax were both hurting and had to work through some serious stuff to find their happiness. This book was more of a romantic suspense story, too.
One significant plot item was left pretty unresolved. (I know, super vague but I don’t want to give spoilers). Not sure is this means it will linger into future books in the series?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mia co-owns a construction and renovation company and walks up to her new site…only to find her estranged husband, Brax, who walked away 10 years ago and ignored her letters. Brax, however, thinks that Mia left him. Will they get their second chance?
Kait Nolan does second chance romance SO WELL! Mia and Brax were both hurting and had to work through some serious stuff to find their happiness. This book was more of a romantic suspense story, too.
One significant plot item was left pretty unresolved. (I know, super vague but I don’t want to give spoilers). Not sure is this means it will linger into future books in the series?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 6, 2022
Nolan delivers a steamy romance with complex characters. Eden's Ridge is about to discover the secrets Brax and Mia have been keeping.
After reading the prequel, I wasn't a fan of Mia. There was only one way she could redeem herself for leaving Brax. Of course, Nolan knew this, too, and she delivered that exact scenario.
The character interactions were enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the bad boy bakers finding their happy endings.
I would have liked more information to help us solve the mystery which is the main reason for a four-star review. A few things worked out "too conveniently" which is another thing I don't love.
If you love hot soldiers, interesting characters and the small town atmosphere, you'll want to snatch up Nolan's latest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After reading the prequel, I wasn't a fan of Mia. There was only one way she could redeem herself for leaving Brax. Of course, Nolan knew this, too, and she delivered that exact scenario.
The character interactions were enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the bad boy bakers finding their happy endings.
I would have liked more information to help us solve the mystery which is the main reason for a four-star review. A few things worked out "too conveniently" which is another thing I don't love.
If you love hot soldiers, interesting characters and the small town atmosphere, you'll want to snatch up Nolan's latest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 9, 2024
3.5 stars
This had a lot going on. My copy had the prequel, which I do think is necessary for this book. It wasn't your typical romance, and there were parts of that I liked. There was a large part of plot that sort of felt unfinished, which ended up taking away from my enjoyment. I still liked the female MC, though I think it didn't make a lot of sense for him not to read even one of her letters if he was that into her.
This had a lot going on. My copy had the prequel, which I do think is necessary for this book. It wasn't your typical romance, and there were parts of that I liked. There was a large part of plot that sort of felt unfinished, which ended up taking away from my enjoyment. I still liked the female MC, though I think it didn't make a lot of sense for him not to read even one of her letters if he was that into her.
March 20, 2022
Kait Nolan never disappoints. I look forward to each book and Mixed Up With A Marine was just as great as I expected it to be. Brax and Mia are so good together and I can’t wait to read about all the new characters in this series. Well done, Kait .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2024
This book was good, I think slow burn romances just ruined me so I can’t give it 5 stars because there was no heart pounding moments when they simply brush hands. However, I do want to read more of this author’s books and hopefully get the next book in this series!
Also, I got this book for free on my kindle as part of the Small Town Road Trip free book thing that Zoe York is a part of!
Also, I got this book for free on my kindle as part of the Small Town Road Trip free book thing that Zoe York is a part of!
September 30, 2023
Just discovered Kait Nolan recently. Have read through all the Misfit Inn books and then read this one's prequel and had to know Mia & Brax's story and... OMG. My favorite couple yet. On to the next!
April 19, 2024
This book was very good! The second chance romance was great and my first one. I like how the point of view made it feel not so back and forth. I would recommend this book if you just got back to reading or just enjoy a happy ending
March 15, 2022
Oh my marine! This story just melted my heart. I read straight through in one day. Brax and Mia are amazing together. I read the prequel first and couldn't wait to finish the story. Lots of lies and omissions leave these two best friends in love to suffer. Their coming back together is so sweet. I loved it!. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2025
Good story
I enjoyed this second chance story. The characters are likeable and I enjoyed reading about them. The writing style is so easy to read and makes the book go by fast.
I enjoyed this second chance story. The characters are likeable and I enjoyed reading about them. The writing style is so easy to read and makes the book go by fast.
March 16, 2022
Once again, this much loved and talented author delivers a 5+ stars story.
Though not required, I would highly suggest reading the prequel, Rescued by a Bad Boy, in which you will get the early years of this young couple.
Marine Brax Whitmore has recently left the military . During his time in a place that taught him new skills as he entered civilian life, he made a close friendship with two other former military men . While looking forward to a new life with his friends, he never forgot the love of his live, his ex-wife, Mia Whitmore.
What he never expected was not only to see her again after ten years, but that she is the contractor the men will be hiring for their bakery, but also that the divorce has never been filed.
As these two reconnect and open their hearts to one another, we find out what really happened ten years ago.
But it seems the past is still trying to harm Mia. Will they be able to overcome the danger, the old hurts, and the new discoveries? Or , will they each go their separate ways, something neither wants but seem they are struggling to overcome every time something else comes to light.
This is a story filled with heartbreak that at times will make you teary. It’s also heartwarming as they give life and love a second chance, especially when that love never died.
It’s another wonderful story by this talented author and a great start to the new series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Though not required, I would highly suggest reading the prequel, Rescued by a Bad Boy, in which you will get the early years of this young couple.
Marine Brax Whitmore has recently left the military . During his time in a place that taught him new skills as he entered civilian life, he made a close friendship with two other former military men . While looking forward to a new life with his friends, he never forgot the love of his live, his ex-wife, Mia Whitmore.
What he never expected was not only to see her again after ten years, but that she is the contractor the men will be hiring for their bakery, but also that the divorce has never been filed.
As these two reconnect and open their hearts to one another, we find out what really happened ten years ago.
But it seems the past is still trying to harm Mia. Will they be able to overcome the danger, the old hurts, and the new discoveries? Or , will they each go their separate ways, something neither wants but seem they are struggling to overcome every time something else comes to light.
This is a story filled with heartbreak that at times will make you teary. It’s also heartwarming as they give life and love a second chance, especially when that love never died.
It’s another wonderful story by this talented author and a great start to the new series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
April 8, 2022
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from Booksprout for giving my two cents. We meet Mia and Brax, foster kids who fell for one another and always there for one another. A traumatic event that Mia faced leads to Brax saying they should get married except one day, Mia disappears from his life. Fast forward 10 years and Mia is a successful contractor in small town Texas. She has spent her life running and hiding and is finally putting some roots down. Brax is a year out of thr military and a baker at that...smtg he never thought of growing up. With his two friends Jonah and Holt, they decide to turn Jonah and Sam's inheritance into a bakery bc why not. What Brax didn't expect was for his ex-wife to walk thru the door. Mia can't believe her eyes...Brax is in front of her and introduces her as his ex-wife...except Mia has to correct him to that they are still married. Mia always hoped she would see Brax again to explain what happened since he sent her letter back after her enlisted. There is a lot of unfinished business between Mia and Brax but things get out of control when thr work site keeps getting vandalized and Mia realizes it could be because of her. Does Mia stop hiding and tell her darkest secret or will it be the end of what she's always wanted. Can Brax forgive and move forward? Drama, OMG moments and past pain makes this a great story.
March 6, 2023
I really enjoyed the read. The story line is a little far-fetch but I was really into reading this book and was hooked!
November 15, 2022
3.5ish stars.
Things I Liked:
-second chance romance
-Brax’s friends and how supportive they are
-Rebecca (Jonah’s mom) - I love how she “adopted” Brax into her family
-the glimpses of Cayla and Maddie (I can’t wait to learn more about them)
Things I Didn’t Like:
-that the mystery of Mia’s dad still isn’t solved
-I didn’t understand the Curt storyline (who is he and why did he agree to “protect” Mia for free? I say “protect” because he threw her in foster care)
-Luca’s existence (I’m still not convinced he’s innocent)
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-more time between the reveal of what actually happened when Mia left and Mia and Brax getting back together (I understand they still loved each other but I feel they should have had more time to come to terms with the past)
-more about Brax’s time in the Marines and the after effects (both physically and mentally)
-flashbacks of their past friendship/relationship (they obviously have a big past yet nothing was shown of this)
-an epilogue further into the future (I would love to see them become foster parents)
Things I Liked:
-second chance romance
-Brax’s friends and how supportive they are
-Rebecca (Jonah’s mom) - I love how she “adopted” Brax into her family
-the glimpses of Cayla and Maddie (I can’t wait to learn more about them)
Things I Didn’t Like:
-that the mystery of Mia’s dad still isn’t solved
-I didn’t understand the Curt storyline (who is he and why did he agree to “protect” Mia for free? I say “protect” because he threw her in foster care)
-Luca’s existence (I’m still not convinced he’s innocent)
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-more time between the reveal of what actually happened when Mia left and Mia and Brax getting back together (I understand they still loved each other but I feel they should have had more time to come to terms with the past)
-more about Brax’s time in the Marines and the after effects (both physically and mentally)
-flashbacks of their past friendship/relationship (they obviously have a big past yet nothing was shown of this)
-an epilogue further into the future (I would love to see them become foster parents)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2024
Second chance romances make my heart sing! Having read the prequel, Rescued By a Bad Boy, I was in desperate need of seeing Brax and Mia get another shot to make a go of it. There’s a lot going on in their story and most of it was nothing like I was expecting. This pair and all their self-recriminations ripped my heart into little bitty pieces. But watching them peel back the layers and get vulnerable, plus their commitment to one another, patched all those broken pieces back together. There’re a couple threads that aren’t completely tied off about Mia’s past and the dangers she’s faced, so I’m guessing these might play further into future books of the series. The ending is one of the sweetest things I’ve ever read and I can’t wait to read more about these newest members of the Eden’s Ridge community. Besides, I love any chance I get to check back in on my favorite Misfit Inn families.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Booksprout.
May 25, 2025
While I liked getting to see more of Mia and Brax, after reading
Rescued by a Bad Boy
, I felt like so much of this was just stupid. The connection between Mia and Brax in Rescued was great and honestly they shouldn't have had so much miscommunication in this. Yes they finally had a talk and everything came out but the fact that Brax thought for a second that Mia would disappear for no reason kind of destroys any character build we got in the first book.
Mia was okay but so wishy-washy "well I can never tell" and honestly it got annoying. Especially since it didn't seem to come up at all in the last book. Kind of felt like we have 2 different characters; yes the end of Rescued tried to point to something and there was the one interaction with Curt when they got married but it never went anywhere. I did like that she never gave up on possibly seeing Brax again although I feel like if she really didn't want to give up, she could have tried once or twice more to track him down, even being hurt by the fact that he never opened her letters. The reveal on what happened when she left was sad and it's unfortunate that it cost her and Brax 10 years, but at least they were able to reconnect.
Brax was also okay. I get his anger when it looked like Mia had just up and left. Although like I mentioned earlier, the fact that he just blindly assumed that she didn't care anymore and that's basically what drove his anger was ridiculous. I did like once he realized how much of an ass he'd been, he was willing to try and start over because he wasn't willing to continue being an ass.
The Luca thing was kind of unnecessary. If you're going to put in a character to have a connection/relationship stand in the way, then go all the way. Not an unrequited love that suddenly realizes the error of his ways and disappears to take time. I get having a friend that's there to pick up the pieces, but he either needed to be a plant of some kind that was looking into Mia or he needed to be a jealous twat that was sabotaging things to try and pin the blame on Brax. Otherwise his whole character was just there to reveal things to Brax that he had no right to, no matter how angry he was. And yes, Mia talked to him and told him he was in the wrong and he left, but he was still unnecessary for all the jealousness.
There were some questions left unanswered, I'm sure as setup for the next book/rest of the series. It wasn't as much a cliffhanger as I've seen some reviews calling out, though. I do wish we'd gotten more closure on what was going on but I'll admit there's enough threads that I'm curious to at least check out book 2. I will admit that I liked the epilogue and how Holt was trying to stay away from Cayla on a personal front, but one interaction with Maddie and he's cooked. It'll be fun to see that play out!
Mia was okay but so wishy-washy "well I can never tell" and honestly it got annoying. Especially since it didn't seem to come up at all in the last book. Kind of felt like we have 2 different characters; yes the end of Rescued tried to point to something and there was the one interaction with Curt when they got married but it never went anywhere. I did like that she never gave up on possibly seeing Brax again although I feel like if she really didn't want to give up, she could have tried once or twice more to track him down, even being hurt by the fact that he never opened her letters. The reveal on what happened when she left was sad and it's unfortunate that it cost her and Brax 10 years, but at least they were able to reconnect.
Brax was also okay. I get his anger when it looked like Mia had just up and left. Although like I mentioned earlier, the fact that he just blindly assumed that she didn't care anymore and that's basically what drove his anger was ridiculous. I did like once he realized how much of an ass he'd been, he was willing to try and start over because he wasn't willing to continue being an ass.
The Luca thing was kind of unnecessary. If you're going to put in a character to have a connection/relationship stand in the way, then go all the way. Not an unrequited love that suddenly realizes the error of his ways and disappears to take time. I get having a friend that's there to pick up the pieces, but he either needed to be a plant of some kind that was looking into Mia or he needed to be a jealous twat that was sabotaging things to try and pin the blame on Brax. Otherwise his whole character was just there to reveal things to Brax that he had no right to, no matter how angry he was. And yes, Mia talked to him and told him he was in the wrong and he left, but he was still unnecessary for all the jealousness.
There were some questions left unanswered, I'm sure as setup for the next book/rest of the series. It wasn't as much a cliffhanger as I've seen some reviews calling out, though. I do wish we'd gotten more closure on what was going on but I'll admit there's enough threads that I'm curious to at least check out book 2. I will admit that I liked the epilogue and how Holt was trying to stay away from Cayla on a personal front, but one interaction with Maddie and he's cooked. It'll be fun to see that play out!
November 20, 2022
4.5 stars
This book is a lovely second-chance romance with a thread of danger that doesn't entirely resolve (the author's note at the end promises it will not be forgotten). As this book has an H[assumedly]EA, I'm guessing it'll be a thread through all books in the series. This novel was my first from this author and the first in this series, though there are tons of secondary and tertiary characters that are clearly from previous series, if you like that kind of thing. (I do, though the sheer number can be daunting as you try to remember who belongs to whom. Here, however, the author keeps it pretty much low key, so it shouldn't distract a reader.)
From reading other reviews, I gather there's a prequel novella that covers Mia and Brax's early years from when they're in and just aged out of the foster care system. I didn't read it and didn't miss out on anything by not reading it; this full-length novel feels complete. I also suspect that the prequel doesn't have an HEA--how could it given that they're apart for a subsequent decade. With that in mind, I'd recommend the prequel, as long as you have this novel waiting in your TBR pile.
Anyway, here, Mia and Brax run into each other unexpectedly and have to deal with all sorts of emotions and revealed misunderstandings. Brax has grown into a formidable man--the titular Marine--who has acquired mad baking skills courtesy of a baking-as-therapy program. He's in what turns out to be Mia's new hometown with two buddies, planning to start a bakery. Mia is with the contracting company they meet with for the renovation, and that's when their meet(again)-(not entirely)cute reunion occurs. I absolutely adore that Mia has become so proficient in a male-dominated profession and that she manages the project with skill and class while also being able to do any of the manual work.
The bulk of the story is the slow unveiling of all Mia's secrets to Brax. To keep the story moving, there are secondary characters whose stories are teased, a guy who Mia has tragically friend-zoned (and IMHO gets treated pretty sadly, and a series of increasingly violent vandalization. I do think that with all the build up, the issue threatening Mia had fully resolved, but the story is good enough that I've decided to put faith in the author and will wait for the next book in the series (Holt's story).
I received a copy of this book for free from BookBub. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
This book is a lovely second-chance romance with a thread of danger that doesn't entirely resolve (the author's note at the end promises it will not be forgotten). As this book has an H[assumedly]EA, I'm guessing it'll be a thread through all books in the series. This novel was my first from this author and the first in this series, though there are tons of secondary and tertiary characters that are clearly from previous series, if you like that kind of thing. (I do, though the sheer number can be daunting as you try to remember who belongs to whom. Here, however, the author keeps it pretty much low key, so it shouldn't distract a reader.)
From reading other reviews, I gather there's a prequel novella that covers Mia and Brax's early years from when they're in and just aged out of the foster care system. I didn't read it and didn't miss out on anything by not reading it; this full-length novel feels complete. I also suspect that the prequel doesn't have an HEA--how could it given that they're apart for a subsequent decade. With that in mind, I'd recommend the prequel, as long as you have this novel waiting in your TBR pile.
Anyway, here, Mia and Brax run into each other unexpectedly and have to deal with all sorts of emotions and revealed misunderstandings. Brax has grown into a formidable man--the titular Marine--who has acquired mad baking skills courtesy of a baking-as-therapy program. He's in what turns out to be Mia's new hometown with two buddies, planning to start a bakery. Mia is with the contracting company they meet with for the renovation, and that's when their meet(again)-(not entirely)cute reunion occurs. I absolutely adore that Mia has become so proficient in a male-dominated profession and that she manages the project with skill and class while also being able to do any of the manual work.
The bulk of the story is the slow unveiling of all Mia's secrets to Brax. To keep the story moving, there are secondary characters whose stories are teased, a guy who Mia has tragically friend-zoned (and IMHO gets treated pretty sadly, and a series of increasingly violent vandalization. I do think that with all the build up, the issue threatening Mia had fully resolved, but the story is good enough that I've decided to put faith in the author and will wait for the next book in the series (Holt's story).
I received a copy of this book for free from BookBub. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
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