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Pembrooke #1
Sweet Sunshine
She’s a romantic at heart.
Chloe Delaney had three very specific wishes, growing up. She wished to stay settled in the small mountain town of Pembrooke, where she grew up, to one day be her own boss, and to fall in love with a man who would be willing to go to the ends of the earth for her. With her roots firmly planted in Pembrooke’s soil and her bakery, Sinful Sweets, thriving, two of her wishes have already come true. When a handsome single father moves to town, she’s certain she’s found the man to fill the role of wish number three.
The only problem is, you can’t force a frog to turn into a prince.
He isn’t the Prince Charming type.
When Derrick Anderson moved from Jackson Hole to the small town of Pembrooke, he did it determined to wipe the slate clean. After eight years spent trapped in a miserable marriage, he’s made a vow to never take the plunge again. He wants to be untethered, not tangled up in the strings that come with a committed relationship. He has his daughter, his career, and an ex-wife hell bent on making his life unbearable. His plate is already full.
The only problem is, he didn’t have a plan in place to protect his heart from her.
Neither of them were prepared for the course their lives would take. But once a rollercoaster begins to move, you can’t just climb off, now can you?
The only thing they can do is strap in, hold on tight, and enjoy the ride.
Chloe Delaney had three very specific wishes, growing up. She wished to stay settled in the small mountain town of Pembrooke, where she grew up, to one day be her own boss, and to fall in love with a man who would be willing to go to the ends of the earth for her. With her roots firmly planted in Pembrooke’s soil and her bakery, Sinful Sweets, thriving, two of her wishes have already come true. When a handsome single father moves to town, she’s certain she’s found the man to fill the role of wish number three.
The only problem is, you can’t force a frog to turn into a prince.
He isn’t the Prince Charming type.
When Derrick Anderson moved from Jackson Hole to the small town of Pembrooke, he did it determined to wipe the slate clean. After eight years spent trapped in a miserable marriage, he’s made a vow to never take the plunge again. He wants to be untethered, not tangled up in the strings that come with a committed relationship. He has his daughter, his career, and an ex-wife hell bent on making his life unbearable. His plate is already full.
The only problem is, he didn’t have a plan in place to protect his heart from her.
Neither of them were prepared for the course their lives would take. But once a rollercoaster begins to move, you can’t just climb off, now can you?
The only thing they can do is strap in, hold on tight, and enjoy the ride.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2016
630 people are currently reading
1026 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Prince
106 books2,539 followersBorn and raised around Houston, Jessica is a self proclaimed caffeine addict, connoisseur of inexpensive wine, and the worst driver in the state of Texas. In addition to being all of these things, she’s first and foremost a wife and mom.
Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance.
When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
To be in-the-know before anyone else, follow along on my website, or join my newsletter.
www.authorjessicaprince.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/_KJ0n
Connect with me everywhere else:
Facebook: authorjessicaprince
Instagram: @jessprince_writes
Twitter: @JessPrince2013
Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance.
When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
To be in-the-know before anyone else, follow along on my website, or join my newsletter.
www.authorjessicaprince.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/_KJ0n
Connect with me everywhere else:
Facebook: authorjessicaprince
Instagram: @jessprince_writes
Twitter: @JessPrince2013
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
February 28, 2024
I was in the mood for a small-town romance and a friend Recommended this one to me…….
Jessica Prince is my new Favorite author for real-sweetheart Romance novel
Chloe owns the towns bakery ( Sinful Sweets ) and she lives above that bakery. She poured her heart and soul into the place, and it showed the moment you walked through the door.
Chloe never really had the best of luck when it came to men. No matter how hard she tried, she just cant find the right match ……..
Chloe Has been shamelessly and most definitely hung up on Deputy Derrick Anderson, since he moved to her small Piece of the world……
Oh, sure he wasn’t a loser, a poser, a thief, or a cheate or anything like thatr — as far as she knew — but he was completely and undeniably unattainable……….
Derrick works at the town's sheriff’s department and has a nine-year-old daughter named Eliza.
Eliza is one of the most adorable little 9-year old’s you could ever meet, only thing is she’s got a psychopath mother that loves to play games with Derek……… And with that said you know where I’m going he is in no position or think he’s not in the position to be in a stable relationship …..
So, since Derek has Joint custody with his ex-wife he has his little girl every other weekend. So those opposite weekends is when he enjoys his one night stands yay Chloe gets to watch all this
This was a fun and entertaining friend to lovers read, with a slow burn … I just love when a book can keep my attention all the way through the book, with just the right pace of the story.
October 6, 2019
Spoilers ahead
Let me tell y'all this "romance" book is utter PERFECTION!!! Don't believe me??? Let me break it down......
1)h has had a crush on the H for over a year, she's encouraged to finally ask him out and when she goes to do so another woman makes come hither eyes at him and he excuses himself from the h calling her another name
2) about a month later he comes into the bakery with his daughter and she's sweet to the child and helps to mitigate an argument between father and daughter so he sends her a fruit basket as thanks and to get her to smile at him again because he can't figure out why his sunshine is acting so cold to him
3)then the H had a falling out with his ex, goes to the H's bakery in his foul mood and blows up at her when she pathetically keeps asking how he's doing
4) they meet up while out with friends and he apologizes, she brings up the whole wrong name thing and he gives THE lamest excuse I've ever heard as to how it happened. It's all good tho cuz she forgives him then mentions she'd had a crush on him forever. He oh so kindly tells her he can't give her what she needs from a man so she said her crush was in the past. They agree to be friends
5)he comes into her bakery every day acting friendly and she sees him walking down the street with another woman. Please note this is not the OW from note 1 above. She's still pining so she decides to try online dating to get over her heartbreak
6)the H comes into her bakery again and another woman, again not any of the previous ones mentioned, asks him out and he agrees. The h thinks all kinds of things about the OW #3 but this is the push she needs to actually date
7) on her date she bumps into the H and his date and they sit together. She gets drunk and when his ex, who's perfect BTW while the h is curvy with big boobs, ass and a little belly, starts to argue with the H our sweet h defends him. His women call her names and he defends her and takes her drunk ass home when her asshole date bails leaving his date to drive her car home
8) again while out with friends the h gets sick and the H nurses her back to health. They get a little frisky but she's not like his usual type of woman and when she asks what's next he's clueless. Poor dude wanted some nookie he didn't think of what'd come after. She however confesses that she loves him, he's stunned and she rushes away heartbroken
9) finally at 70% he apologizes again and tells her he's attracted to her yadda yadda yadda. Never mind the OW she actually saw him with and the sex we're very sure he's been having ALL this time...... the sex between them however is off the charts,"the best he's ever had"
10) now the H's ex wife, who he's been fighting for custody for years, wants him back 😂 she makes a play making the h and his daughter walk in on her kissing him. He explains to the h all is forgiven, ily..... kiss.......kiss. But see the ex can't take it because the h is a homewrecker according to her so she attacks her and her bakery burns down
11) can you tell what I'm about to say next? Yup they get their hea because the ex is a psycho so he gets custody everything baby!
I mean I understand the high reviews, this is the stuff of a romance reader's dreams!!!
Lots of other little things, too numerous to mention but I think y'all get what I mean. My heart is so full right now.......awwwwwwwww
P.S at the end of this the H's daughter is in love with his friend's son who only sees her as family but like her step mama she has no problem pining after a man who doesn't WANT her. I mean this is the kinda stuff I LIVE for in a romance!
Let me tell y'all this "romance" book is utter PERFECTION!!! Don't believe me??? Let me break it down......
1)h has had a crush on the H for over a year, she's encouraged to finally ask him out and when she goes to do so another woman makes come hither eyes at him and he excuses himself from the h calling her another name
2) about a month later he comes into the bakery with his daughter and she's sweet to the child and helps to mitigate an argument between father and daughter so he sends her a fruit basket as thanks and to get her to smile at him again because he can't figure out why his sunshine is acting so cold to him
3)then the H had a falling out with his ex, goes to the H's bakery in his foul mood and blows up at her when she pathetically keeps asking how he's doing
4) they meet up while out with friends and he apologizes, she brings up the whole wrong name thing and he gives THE lamest excuse I've ever heard as to how it happened. It's all good tho cuz she forgives him then mentions she'd had a crush on him forever. He oh so kindly tells her he can't give her what she needs from a man so she said her crush was in the past. They agree to be friends
5)he comes into her bakery every day acting friendly and she sees him walking down the street with another woman. Please note this is not the OW from note 1 above. She's still pining so she decides to try online dating to get over her heartbreak
6)the H comes into her bakery again and another woman, again not any of the previous ones mentioned, asks him out and he agrees. The h thinks all kinds of things about the OW #3 but this is the push she needs to actually date
7) on her date she bumps into the H and his date and they sit together. She gets drunk and when his ex, who's perfect BTW while the h is curvy with big boobs, ass and a little belly, starts to argue with the H our sweet h defends him. His women call her names and he defends her and takes her drunk ass home when her asshole date bails leaving his date to drive her car home
8) again while out with friends the h gets sick and the H nurses her back to health. They get a little frisky but she's not like his usual type of woman and when she asks what's next he's clueless. Poor dude wanted some nookie he didn't think of what'd come after. She however confesses that she loves him, he's stunned and she rushes away heartbroken
9) finally at 70% he apologizes again and tells her he's attracted to her yadda yadda yadda. Never mind the OW she actually saw him with and the sex we're very sure he's been having ALL this time...... the sex between them however is off the charts,"the best he's ever had"
10) now the H's ex wife, who he's been fighting for custody for years, wants him back 😂 she makes a play making the h and his daughter walk in on her kissing him. He explains to the h all is forgiven, ily..... kiss.......kiss. But see the ex can't take it because the h is a homewrecker according to her so she attacks her and her bakery burns down
11) can you tell what I'm about to say next? Yup they get their hea because the ex is a psycho so he gets custody everything baby!
I mean I understand the high reviews, this is the stuff of a romance reader's dreams!!!
Lots of other little things, too numerous to mention but I think y'all get what I mean. My heart is so full right now.......awwwwwwwww
P.S at the end of this the H's daughter is in love with his friend's son who only sees her as family but like her step mama she has no problem pining after a man who doesn't WANT her. I mean this is the kinda stuff I LIVE for in a romance!
dnr
February 24, 2019What a lovely "love" story. The h gets to watch the dipshit H fuckatround with all the women in town for a year and a half while she pines for him, oh and yeah, he knows she likes him. Once he's worked his way through every other woman in town he then deigns to "notice" the h. Who is a complete doormat who's grateful he finally looks her way. Wow....that's some great love story there.
Frankly this manslut deserved his ex! And writer, give your h's a damn backbone and enough with the double standard sexist crap.
Frankly this manslut deserved his ex! And writer, give your h's a damn backbone and enough with the double standard sexist crap.
February 9, 2024
Cringe… worst hero ever. But not because he’s bad. He’s a good guy who had a nightmare of a marriage with the evil witch of the west and now has decided that he won’t do relationships anymore. Not ever again. He has casual ONS. He also has a nice and cute daughter who’s neglected by the evil mother. The heroine has a crush on him and he doesn’t even notice her. She even tries to ask him out but he doesn’t even let her finish her sentence and goes after a hot babe. Jezuz.
The hero besically thinks she’s cute (cringe again) and when she tells him she had a crush on him he tells her he’s sorry but he doesn’t see her that way. Cringe again. He then asks her to be friends and so the heroine has to see him hooking up with hot babes while she pines. Cringe.
Then, all of a sudden, he realizes he’s got the hots for her, because you know, big tits, big ass, a lot of stuff. And she likes his daughter.
So things get serious. And I wasn’t interested anymore because to me she was always a convenient choice. Good at cooking, great sex, good homebody.
Nope. And in the end the evil ex wife almost kills driving over her while drunk. No angst because the heroine is too silly to have a lil elf confidence and self respect, and some humorous scenes with her pregnant friend.
The hero besically thinks she’s cute (cringe again) and when she tells him she had a crush on him he tells her he’s sorry but he doesn’t see her that way. Cringe again. He then asks her to be friends and so the heroine has to see him hooking up with hot babes while she pines. Cringe.
Then, all of a sudden, he realizes he’s got the hots for her, because you know, big tits, big ass, a lot of stuff. And she likes his daughter.
So things get serious. And I wasn’t interested anymore because to me she was always a convenient choice. Good at cooking, great sex, good homebody.
Nope. And in the end the evil ex wife almost kills driving over her while drunk. No angst because the heroine is too silly to have a lil elf confidence and self respect, and some humorous scenes with her pregnant friend.
April 16, 2021
I wanted to give JP another try after the unfortunate Defile.
We’re back in KA land with all the KA-ness of H's hooking up with bad girls before the sweet heroine, a sweet heroine that pines, a girl posse, curvy heroine doesn't know how gorgeous she is, the heroine gets knocked on her rear in some way that requires hospitalization while the cop H doesn't even get a hangnail, male bonding, etc.
Some of the fun of reading Jessica Prince is trying to guess the matchup of which Kristen Ashley it is. Rumor on a FB book group is that Jessica Prince really is Kristen Ashley.
We have a Wild Man match.
Heroine has a bakery.
H is a policeman.
H has an ex-wife from hell.
The H's kid's adore the nurturing and pretty little heroine.
Ex-wife makes feeble but lurid attempts to get H back. Sweet Sunshine has the added bonus of the ex going berserk and running down the heroine. That’s some entertainment for you.
We’re back in KA land with all the KA-ness of H's hooking up with bad girls before the sweet heroine, a sweet heroine that pines, a girl posse, curvy heroine doesn't know how gorgeous she is, the heroine gets knocked on her rear in some way that requires hospitalization while the cop H doesn't even get a hangnail, male bonding, etc.
Some of the fun of reading Jessica Prince is trying to guess the matchup of which Kristen Ashley it is. Rumor on a FB book group is that Jessica Prince really is Kristen Ashley.
We have a Wild Man match.
Heroine has a bakery.
H is a policeman.
H has an ex-wife from hell.
The H's kid's adore the nurturing and pretty little heroine.
Ex-wife makes feeble but lurid attempts to get H back. Sweet Sunshine has the added bonus of the ex going berserk and running down the heroine. That’s some entertainment for you.
February 21, 2019
I found this book compelling, like it got me in and had me reading but I hated it.
Classic tropes:
Hot asshole H with commitment issues, shags and dines the local women, is a dad to a beautiful 9 year old, has a bitchy ex, doesn’t see the h as a romantic interest because she’s not his type.
Doormat h, baker, basic redhead, chubby/curvy, liked him since he moved into town a year ago, a total loser, let’s him insult her, basically wanted because of her motherly traits towards his daughter. Dresses sexy one time and suddenly that gets his attention. Then he looks after her when she’s sick for two days and he climbs into bed trying to have sex and she’s about to allow him, dead in love and let’s be real he would’ve one night standed her and boy I wish he did. Maybe she needs a look in the mirror and stop accepting such poor behaviour from a man who requires such a level of persuasion to actually see her as a sexual interest. Anyway then it’s plain sailing because she gives in.
But hey at least it’s interesting to read and gets a reader venting, you know?
I think this is a testament to the hero’s character, a police officer, who is talking to his psycho ex. It’s just unnecessary.
****
“Oh, sweetheart,” I chuckled sarcastically, “You know damned good and well I was the one that left your ass ‘cause I was sick and tired of fucking a dead, frigid fish every night.”
Classic tropes:
Hot asshole H with commitment issues, shags and dines the local women, is a dad to a beautiful 9 year old, has a bitchy ex, doesn’t see the h as a romantic interest because she’s not his type.
Doormat h, baker, basic redhead, chubby/curvy, liked him since he moved into town a year ago, a total loser, let’s him insult her, basically wanted because of her motherly traits towards his daughter. Dresses sexy one time and suddenly that gets his attention. Then he looks after her when she’s sick for two days and he climbs into bed trying to have sex and she’s about to allow him, dead in love and let’s be real he would’ve one night standed her and boy I wish he did. Maybe she needs a look in the mirror and stop accepting such poor behaviour from a man who requires such a level of persuasion to actually see her as a sexual interest. Anyway then it’s plain sailing because she gives in.
But hey at least it’s interesting to read and gets a reader venting, you know?
I think this is a testament to the hero’s character, a police officer, who is talking to his psycho ex. It’s just unnecessary.
****
“Oh, sweetheart,” I chuckled sarcastically, “You know damned good and well I was the one that left your ass ‘cause I was sick and tired of fucking a dead, frigid fish every night.”
July 15, 2019
3.5 Stars
Chloe Delaney is own her own bakery, one thing she can tick of her wish-list, somewhat shy she finally finds the nerve to ask the guy she has been crushing on if he would like to go on a date. The problem is he seems more interested in the woman glancing his way, a woman who so obviously wants a tumble, plus he seems to have forgotten Chole’s name, and barely notices her speaking to him. Derrick Anderson, after 8 years in a hellish marriage is focused on being the best dad he can be and having some fun, exhausted and slightly in his own head, he fails to notice the gem right under his nose.
Chole is a sweetheart and the moments where she told Derrick off, I liked, although there were times that I wish she hadn’t let him off so easily.
Derrick at the start had me shaking my head a lot, he was so oblivious when it came to Chole, until she dressed up a bit, I kinda wanted to whack him a time or two. As a cop so I would expect his observation and deduction skills to be a tad better. Although I will admit I felt sorry for him – his ex-wife is no walk in the park, and continues to make his life a hellish one in any way she can, but his behaviour around Chole at the start really put my teeth on edge. He almost had me putting the book down, but Chole, Harlow and Derrick’s little girl ensured I didn’t. Luckily Derrick did improve as the book progressed (although he is not my favourite hero when it comes to this author’s books). One thing I can’t deny is that he is one dedicated/loyal dad.
The chemistry between the two is nice, once Derrick wakes up, and there are some sweet moments, I just wish Derrick had been better from the start. When Derrick does wake up (fully) he goes full steam to get Chole, but before they can get the HEA there is a crazy/vindictive ex to deal with.
I really, really liked Harlow (Chole’s closest friend), she was super entertaining as a secondary character. I am hoping her personality is exactly as it is here, in the book where she and Noah take centre stage.
Potential Triggers:
Acquired via KU.
Chloe Delaney is own her own bakery, one thing she can tick of her wish-list, somewhat shy she finally finds the nerve to ask the guy she has been crushing on if he would like to go on a date. The problem is he seems more interested in the woman glancing his way, a woman who so obviously wants a tumble, plus he seems to have forgotten Chole’s name, and barely notices her speaking to him. Derrick Anderson, after 8 years in a hellish marriage is focused on being the best dad he can be and having some fun, exhausted and slightly in his own head, he fails to notice the gem right under his nose.
Chole is a sweetheart and the moments where she told Derrick off, I liked, although there were times that I wish she hadn’t let him off so easily.
Derrick at the start had me shaking my head a lot, he was so oblivious when it came to Chole, until she dressed up a bit, I kinda wanted to whack him a time or two. As a cop so I would expect his observation and deduction skills to be a tad better. Although I will admit I felt sorry for him – his ex-wife is no walk in the park, and continues to make his life a hellish one in any way she can, but his behaviour around Chole at the start really put my teeth on edge. He almost had me putting the book down, but Chole, Harlow and Derrick’s little girl ensured I didn’t. Luckily Derrick did improve as the book progressed (although he is not my favourite hero when it comes to this author’s books). One thing I can’t deny is that he is one dedicated/loyal dad.
The chemistry between the two is nice, once Derrick wakes up, and there are some sweet moments, I just wish Derrick had been better from the start. When Derrick does wake up (fully) he goes full steam to get Chole, but before they can get the HEA there is a crazy/vindictive ex to deal with.
I really, really liked Harlow (Chole’s closest friend), she was super entertaining as a secondary character. I am hoping her personality is exactly as it is here, in the book where she and Noah take centre stage.
Potential Triggers:
Acquired via KU.
September 1, 2024
I’ve read a couple of this author’s books and they all kind of have the same feel. Sort of like a watered-down KA (Kristen Ashley) small town romance. They’re not bad, I actually would prefer to read this over KA any day of the week, they’re shorter and WAY less wordy, but I’ve kind of outgrown the alpha male that can’t pronounce his ing-s and just sort of rolls all over his h that has a sassy mouth but is ok with said rolling.
The problem with these books is you know exactly what is going to happen. It’s like reading on of those fill in the blank books. Chloe has quietly been loving (which is crazy since they’ve hardly spoken) Deputy Derrik from afar since he moved to town eighteen months ago. She’s the shy, curvy town baker, and when she finally gets the guts to ask him out, he’s distracted by the town skank and takes off calling her the wrong name. Ouch.
So, Chloe decides to move on and join a dating site. Lucky for her, Derrik happens to be BFF with her BFF’s husband and at the house the night they’re taking her profile picks and DAMN Chloe is HOT with a makeover and has a rack to die for.
The only problem is Derrick has a total raging B.I.T.C.H. for an ex-wife and he never ever ever ever wants to be in a relationship again, so he friend zones poor Chloe. But Chloe is sunshine, and sunshine is hard not to love.
Bottom Line- This was alright. A little boring at times, a little slow at times, but the crazy ex was pretty crazy so when she was on page she was entertaining enough. They take a little bit to get together but when they do it is almost insta-love for Derrick.
As far as safety, there isn’t anything on page. It hinted that she’s seen him with OW, but I believe their only interaction was him getting coffee. I’m guessing that night he might have hooked up with that chick… maybe, but they weren’t a couple at all, and she’s not mentioned again. One night they ran into each other when they were both on dates.
The problem with these books is you know exactly what is going to happen. It’s like reading on of those fill in the blank books. Chloe has quietly been loving (which is crazy since they’ve hardly spoken) Deputy Derrik from afar since he moved to town eighteen months ago. She’s the shy, curvy town baker, and when she finally gets the guts to ask him out, he’s distracted by the town skank and takes off calling her the wrong name. Ouch.
So, Chloe decides to move on and join a dating site. Lucky for her, Derrik happens to be BFF with her BFF’s husband and at the house the night they’re taking her profile picks and DAMN Chloe is HOT with a makeover and has a rack to die for.
The only problem is Derrick has a total raging B.I.T.C.H. for an ex-wife and he never ever ever ever wants to be in a relationship again, so he friend zones poor Chloe. But Chloe is sunshine, and sunshine is hard not to love.
Bottom Line- This was alright. A little boring at times, a little slow at times, but the crazy ex was pretty crazy so when she was on page she was entertaining enough. They take a little bit to get together but when they do it is almost insta-love for Derrick.
As far as safety, there isn’t anything on page. It hinted that she’s seen him with OW, but I believe their only interaction was him getting coffee. I’m guessing that night he might have hooked up with that chick… maybe, but they weren’t a couple at all, and she’s not mentioned again. One night they ran into each other when they were both on dates.
September 15, 2016
This is what I've come to expect from Jessica Prince. It was light and fluffy. The H fell in love with the h fast, there are some token blunders, and some drama with his ex. What I didn't like was the fact that the h was so quick to take up with him. He basically didn't know she existed for a year and a half, then all of a sudden turned all possessive and alpha on her and she let him? I don't get it. I mean, I didn't want her to be bitter and I'm glad she was making strides in getting over her infatuation with him (because honestly, even though she said she'd been in love with him since they first met, she didn't really know him), but the period where she navigated the dating world without the H needed to last a whole lot longer. This story could have used a lot more angst and build up. Overall, a fun filler read.
What I liked:
1) The dual povs. The writing was very engaging. It wasn't perfect and could have used another edit, but it was fun.
2) The little bit of angst this story had was very satisfying. Is that weird of me to say?
3) My favourite character in this story was the h's dad. That story about rubbing dirt in her broken arm? Priceless.
4) Some of the inner monologue and dialogue were pretty funny.
What I didn't like:
1) The relationship between the MCs moved too fast. Some more angst and development of the friendship would have been benefited the story. And honestly, anytime the H "doesn't know why" he's falling for the h raises red flags for me. Yikes.
2) The drama with the ex was just too OTT.
3) The epilogue was just a plug for the next book. I felt cheated.
4) Didn't need all the cursing.
What I liked:
1) The dual povs. The writing was very engaging. It wasn't perfect and could have used another edit, but it was fun.
2) The little bit of angst this story had was very satisfying. Is that weird of me to say?
3) My favourite character in this story was the h's dad. That story about rubbing dirt in her broken arm? Priceless.
4) Some of the inner monologue and dialogue were pretty funny.
What I didn't like:
1) The relationship between the MCs moved too fast. Some more angst and development of the friendship would have been benefited the story. And honestly, anytime the H "doesn't know why" he's falling for the h raises red flags for me. Yikes.
2) The drama with the ex was just too OTT.
3) The epilogue was just a plug for the next book. I felt cheated.
4) Didn't need all the cursing.
April 3, 2023
Sweet little afternoon read. I enjoyed this one.
May 30, 2016
Sweet Sunshine was my first (solo) Jessica Prince book.
Y'all. Why have I not been reading Jessica Prince?
This book was...it was like romance novel perfection. The kind of book that wraps you up in its story immediately, keeps the butterflies coming, and ends before you're ready to let go. It's smartly written, sometimes funny, and...ugh it did things to my heart. Wonderful, swoony, feely things. *dreamy sigh*
I loved Derrick. I mean, I really, really loved Derrick. He was so real to me—strong, honest, and dead fucking sexy when he decided to turn up the heat. He was wonderful. Nearly perfect as far as romance heroes go.
But, you guys? I freaking ADORED Chloe. I basically AM Chloe. I identified with her so strongly—I share her insecurities and her shyness. My heart ached for her so many times; I think I sometimes felt her hurt on a cellular level, as though I was living her story with her—or maybe even as her. I loved her spirit, her enormous beautiful heart, and, maybe most of all, how she stayed true to herself. She was so strong! So funny and adorable and kind—but also spirited and feisty and not willing to take anyone’s shit. I loved the crap out of her and I have a feeling she's going to be stuck in my heart for a very long time.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. It's relatively low on angst, but is jam-packed with butterflies and the best kind of emotions. I don't know what to tell you. I enjoyed every freaking minute of Sweet Sunshine in a way that left me with my grabby hands out, desperate for more. MORE! The only complaint I have about this book is that it just made my TBR grow exponentially because, well, I have all these Jessica Prince books to read now because you can rest assured, I need more where this came from. ~ Shelly, 5 stars
~~~
My co-reviewer, Shelly sent me a message while I was reading Sweet Sunshine and it basically sums up how I feel about this book and Jessica Prince…
“Why have I not been reading Jessica Prince?!” (Heh, see above review—she’s still asking that question!)
And seriously, WHY? Between this PERFECT book and the excellent Hustler, co-written with Meghan Quinn—a favorite of mine—I am having all kinds of crazy fangirl flails over this new-to-me author.
Sweet Sunshine was a warm, cute, sexy and wonderful read. Everything that the title makes you think…that’s EXACTLY what this book was. Funny. Tear-jerking. Emotional.
PERFECT, just like I said.
And while I love, love, LOVED Derrick—the charming, slightly caddish (at first), hot AF father (a completely wonderful father, at that)—this book was stolen, owned and WON by Chloe. Holy shit, she’s going down as one of my all-time favorite female characters, because, quite simply, she’s the kind of girl I want to be, and want to be friends with.
Strong, smart, sweet as sunshine, she was no pushover. Awkward, yes. Not overly confident, sure. Relatable, abso-fucking-lutely. Her friendship with Harlow was a ton of fun—the way they needled and cared about each other, for real. LOVE. Her relationship with Derrick was equal parts awkwardly cringe-worthy and supremely swoonworthy. And the way she filled Eliza’s empty places? THE. FREAKING. BEST.
I’ve not read Wildflower, the book that first brought readers of Ms. Prince to Pembrooke—it’s part of a different series—and yet, I had zero troubles falling in love with all of these characters. I WILL be reading that book. Until then, I will wait with bated breath for the next book in this series (I can’t even with that epilogue…so cute!), and try as hard as I can to get over Chloe, Derrick andSweet Sunshine, in what is sure to be one hell of a book hangover. ~ Beth, 5 Sunshine stars
Y'all. Why have I not been reading Jessica Prince?
This book was...it was like romance novel perfection. The kind of book that wraps you up in its story immediately, keeps the butterflies coming, and ends before you're ready to let go. It's smartly written, sometimes funny, and...ugh it did things to my heart. Wonderful, swoony, feely things. *dreamy sigh*
I loved Derrick. I mean, I really, really loved Derrick. He was so real to me—strong, honest, and dead fucking sexy when he decided to turn up the heat. He was wonderful. Nearly perfect as far as romance heroes go.
But, you guys? I freaking ADORED Chloe. I basically AM Chloe. I identified with her so strongly—I share her insecurities and her shyness. My heart ached for her so many times; I think I sometimes felt her hurt on a cellular level, as though I was living her story with her—or maybe even as her. I loved her spirit, her enormous beautiful heart, and, maybe most of all, how she stayed true to herself. She was so strong! So funny and adorable and kind—but also spirited and feisty and not willing to take anyone’s shit. I loved the crap out of her and I have a feeling she's going to be stuck in my heart for a very long time.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. It's relatively low on angst, but is jam-packed with butterflies and the best kind of emotions. I don't know what to tell you. I enjoyed every freaking minute of Sweet Sunshine in a way that left me with my grabby hands out, desperate for more. MORE! The only complaint I have about this book is that it just made my TBR grow exponentially because, well, I have all these Jessica Prince books to read now because you can rest assured, I need more where this came from. ~ Shelly, 5 stars
~~~
My co-reviewer, Shelly sent me a message while I was reading Sweet Sunshine and it basically sums up how I feel about this book and Jessica Prince…
“Why have I not been reading Jessica Prince?!” (Heh, see above review—she’s still asking that question!)
And seriously, WHY? Between this PERFECT book and the excellent Hustler, co-written with Meghan Quinn—a favorite of mine—I am having all kinds of crazy fangirl flails over this new-to-me author.
Sweet Sunshine was a warm, cute, sexy and wonderful read. Everything that the title makes you think…that’s EXACTLY what this book was. Funny. Tear-jerking. Emotional.
PERFECT, just like I said.
And while I love, love, LOVED Derrick—the charming, slightly caddish (at first), hot AF father (a completely wonderful father, at that)—this book was stolen, owned and WON by Chloe. Holy shit, she’s going down as one of my all-time favorite female characters, because, quite simply, she’s the kind of girl I want to be, and want to be friends with.
Strong, smart, sweet as sunshine, she was no pushover. Awkward, yes. Not overly confident, sure. Relatable, abso-fucking-lutely. Her friendship with Harlow was a ton of fun—the way they needled and cared about each other, for real. LOVE. Her relationship with Derrick was equal parts awkwardly cringe-worthy and supremely swoonworthy. And the way she filled Eliza’s empty places? THE. FREAKING. BEST.
I’ve not read Wildflower, the book that first brought readers of Ms. Prince to Pembrooke—it’s part of a different series—and yet, I had zero troubles falling in love with all of these characters. I WILL be reading that book. Until then, I will wait with bated breath for the next book in this series (I can’t even with that epilogue…so cute!), and try as hard as I can to get over Chloe, Derrick andSweet Sunshine, in what is sure to be one hell of a book hangover. ~ Beth, 5 Sunshine stars
May 24, 2016
This book was so sweet. Cupcake sweet. Strawberry cupcake for Eliza sweet.
This story is about Chloe and Derrick, small town folks who's best friends have fallen in love and have gotten married. Chloe owns the towns bakery and lives above that bakery. Derrick works at the town's sheriffs department and has a daughter named Eliza. With that daughter comes one crazy ex-wife named Layla. Derrick hasn't had the best luck with women and Chloe tells us straight up on the first page that she hasn't had the best luck with men. She's been in love with Derrick since he moved to town a year and a half ago, but he doesn't seem to notice her as being more than a friend. Or really, more than a friend OF a friend.
I really thought this book was a great, lighthearted, sweet read. A perfect read if you wanted to take something to the beach (which I live close to) or the pool for the summer. You don't really want something emotionally hearty during those times; you want something fun. This is an example. While it does have some heavier moments, most of the time it is full of sweetness.
I really liked both Chloe and Derrick. I felt they were both very believable and played nicely off of each other in the story. Although I understand that the Layla character was a monster, she was rather overly played the villain. But it played nicely into the story. One complaint: their relationship did move rather quickly once it started. They were spouting the "l" word rather quickly. It could be explained on Chloe's side, but not really on Derrick's since he was so commitment shy.
Whew! It took a while to get to those steamy bits, but hold on to your horses ladies. When you do....it will be worth it! WOWZA! Chloe and Derrick and make your pages curl up! A few steamy scenes pack this book up nicely. The story was great. I loved the addition of Eliza and how she got along with Chloe. I am a recent fan of Jessica Prince, but I have to say, I am in love with her writing style. She has made a true fan of me. I am so looking forward to the next book!
Overall, I would give this 4.25 stars, knocking some off for the fast moving "love." That is just my personal preference. However, would I recommend this book? Absolutely.
This story is about Chloe and Derrick, small town folks who's best friends have fallen in love and have gotten married. Chloe owns the towns bakery and lives above that bakery. Derrick works at the town's sheriffs department and has a daughter named Eliza. With that daughter comes one crazy ex-wife named Layla. Derrick hasn't had the best luck with women and Chloe tells us straight up on the first page that she hasn't had the best luck with men. She's been in love with Derrick since he moved to town a year and a half ago, but he doesn't seem to notice her as being more than a friend. Or really, more than a friend OF a friend.
I really thought this book was a great, lighthearted, sweet read. A perfect read if you wanted to take something to the beach (which I live close to) or the pool for the summer. You don't really want something emotionally hearty during those times; you want something fun. This is an example. While it does have some heavier moments, most of the time it is full of sweetness.
I really liked both Chloe and Derrick. I felt they were both very believable and played nicely off of each other in the story. Although I understand that the Layla character was a monster, she was rather overly played the villain. But it played nicely into the story. One complaint: their relationship did move rather quickly once it started. They were spouting the "l" word rather quickly. It could be explained on Chloe's side, but not really on Derrick's since he was so commitment shy.
Whew! It took a while to get to those steamy bits, but hold on to your horses ladies. When you do....it will be worth it! WOWZA! Chloe and Derrick and make your pages curl up! A few steamy scenes pack this book up nicely. The story was great. I loved the addition of Eliza and how she got along with Chloe. I am a recent fan of Jessica Prince, but I have to say, I am in love with her writing style. She has made a true fan of me. I am so looking forward to the next book!
Overall, I would give this 4.25 stars, knocking some off for the fast moving "love." That is just my personal preference. However, would I recommend this book? Absolutely.
June 23, 2016
The cover...I'm not going to lie...the cover is the first thing that caught my attention. Isn't it so sweet and perfect?
The inside of the book is just as sweet as the outside. I loved Eliza and Chloe's relationship, loved that she looked up to Chloe because god knows her own mom wasn't doing a great job of anything. And Derrick...I loved how hard she fell for Chloe. He was being a little stupid in the beginning but he makes up for it.
If you're looking for the perfect lighthearted sweet romance, this one might be what you're looking for.
The inside of the book is just as sweet as the outside. I loved Eliza and Chloe's relationship, loved that she looked up to Chloe because god knows her own mom wasn't doing a great job of anything. And Derrick...I loved how hard she fell for Chloe. He was being a little stupid in the beginning but he makes up for it.
If you're looking for the perfect lighthearted sweet romance, this one might be what you're looking for.
June 10, 2016
4 Sunshine Stars!
“I couldn’t think of a pain greater than wanting someone so completely, you felt it in every cell of your body, only to have that same desire go unfulfilled. Unrequited love really was a bitch. And she could go straight to hell for all I cared.”
Sweet Sunshine was an enjoyable read, from start to finish. Sweet Sunshine is told from dual points of view and follows the story of Chloe and Derrick. Chloe has worked hard to achieve her baking dreams and owns her own bakery, Sinful Sweets. When she’s not cooking up delicious sweets, she’s lusting over Derrick. However, her bad track record with men had kept her from acting on her thoughts….That is until one day. One day, Chloe finally gets up the nerve to act on her feelings for Derrick and ends up getting her heart broken in the process….Derrick is not the commitment time. Burned by his previous marriage, he’s sworn off any type of real relationships. He has his daughter and career to focus on, the last thing he needs to worry about is a woman wanting something more from him. All was going well, until Chloe. Chloe is different from what Derrick is used to and try as he might, Derrick can’t fight what’s growing between the two of them. Will Derrick take a chance on Chloe and see that some relationships are worth fighting for???
Sweet Sunshine is my first book by Jessica Prince and I have to tell you, it will not be my last. This book was well written and very entertaining. It pulls you in instantly and takes you on one heck of a roller-coaster ride. This book had just the right amount of drama, romance and angst. I fell in love with Derrick and Chloe almost instantly. I loved the push and pull that they had. I thought their chemistry was great and that they just fit. Yes, Derrick did frustrate me at times. There were quite a few times when I just wanted to shake him for some of the things that he said, but I get it. I totally get it. He was burned very badly in the past, and so his outlook on women and relationships was a bit skewed. But, I have to say, watching him fall, was one of the most enjoyable things ever because when Derrick falls for a woman, he falls hard!! And Chloe, I just adored her. She was amazing with Derricks daughter. She was so sweet and always treated her like she was something special, which was exactly what she needed in her life. And even though Derrick messed up with Chloe a few times, he was just what she was waiting for all of her life.
Sweet Sunshine is a sweet and enjoyable read. It will make you laugh. It will make you smile. It will frustrate you. It will make you swoon. Most of all, it will make you fall in love. I can not wait to get my hands on the next book in this series!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“I couldn’t think of a pain greater than wanting someone so completely, you felt it in every cell of your body, only to have that same desire go unfulfilled. Unrequited love really was a bitch. And she could go straight to hell for all I cared.”
Sweet Sunshine was an enjoyable read, from start to finish. Sweet Sunshine is told from dual points of view and follows the story of Chloe and Derrick. Chloe has worked hard to achieve her baking dreams and owns her own bakery, Sinful Sweets. When she’s not cooking up delicious sweets, she’s lusting over Derrick. However, her bad track record with men had kept her from acting on her thoughts….That is until one day. One day, Chloe finally gets up the nerve to act on her feelings for Derrick and ends up getting her heart broken in the process….Derrick is not the commitment time. Burned by his previous marriage, he’s sworn off any type of real relationships. He has his daughter and career to focus on, the last thing he needs to worry about is a woman wanting something more from him. All was going well, until Chloe. Chloe is different from what Derrick is used to and try as he might, Derrick can’t fight what’s growing between the two of them. Will Derrick take a chance on Chloe and see that some relationships are worth fighting for???
Sweet Sunshine is my first book by Jessica Prince and I have to tell you, it will not be my last. This book was well written and very entertaining. It pulls you in instantly and takes you on one heck of a roller-coaster ride. This book had just the right amount of drama, romance and angst. I fell in love with Derrick and Chloe almost instantly. I loved the push and pull that they had. I thought their chemistry was great and that they just fit. Yes, Derrick did frustrate me at times. There were quite a few times when I just wanted to shake him for some of the things that he said, but I get it. I totally get it. He was burned very badly in the past, and so his outlook on women and relationships was a bit skewed. But, I have to say, watching him fall, was one of the most enjoyable things ever because when Derrick falls for a woman, he falls hard!! And Chloe, I just adored her. She was amazing with Derricks daughter. She was so sweet and always treated her like she was something special, which was exactly what she needed in her life. And even though Derrick messed up with Chloe a few times, he was just what she was waiting for all of her life.
Sweet Sunshine is a sweet and enjoyable read. It will make you laugh. It will make you smile. It will frustrate you. It will make you swoon. Most of all, it will make you fall in love. I can not wait to get my hands on the next book in this series!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
June 10, 2016
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 5 Sunshine Stars ~
Sweet Sunshine is my first Jessica Prince novel and I am happy to say it won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
What happens when you have almost everything you want in your life, but that one last thing you want doesn’t want you back? Find out that answer by reading Sweet Sunshine by Jessica Prince.
This was a fun and entertaining friends to lovers/ unrequited romance novel. The story will touch on all of your emotions. I laughed out loud, cried a little, swooned a lot and even yelled at my kindle!! When you feel that many emotions, how can you not give it a 5 star rating.
The storyline was intriguing and kept my attention all the way through. I loved the pace of the story. Even though it takes Chloe and Derrick some time to actually get together, it never dragged the story down. I actually liked watching these two become friends first, because Derrick has some serious issues to work through before he can open his heart to Chloe. Their road to happiness isn’t an easy one, there were some serious bumps along the way. Will Chloe have the strength and determination to wait for the man she has loved for over a year?? Read this story and find out!!!
Sweet Sunshine is a standalone novel and the first book in her spinoff Pembrooke Series. This book spins off from Wildflower in Jessica’s Colors Series. Now I haven’t read Wildflower and I don’t feel it is necessary to read it before starting this book. Yes we do see Noah and Harlow quite a bit in this story, but I didn’t feel lost at all. All it really made me feel was that now I have to go back and read Wildflower to see Noah and Harlow’s story.
As I said earlier this book is about Chloe and Derrick. Chloe is the Best Friend of Harlow from Wildflower and is the fun and quirky bakery owner of Sinful Sweets. Overall she is happy with her life, but there is one thing that would take the cake, so to speak, that would put her happiness over the top….that is Derrick Anderson. Derrick Anderson is Pembrooke’s Deputy Sheriff and has lived in this town for over a year. he is also a single father to Eliza, an adorable 9 year old. He also has a B**** of an ex who makes his life a living H***. What he doesn’t know is he is also the crush of Chloe’s. Chloe has put her heart on the line for Derrick a couple times only to have it broken, so she has decided to move on….Will it be too late for Derrick, once he finally realizes what he wants??? Read the book and find out.
I would definitely recommend this book. If you are looking for that funny, sweet and sexy love story, that is filled with lots of sexual tension and angst, and even a little drama from the ex to keep it exciting, then this is a book you should read. I know I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I also know I will be going back and reading Jessica’s Colors Series!!!
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~ 5 Sunshine Stars ~
Sweet Sunshine is my first Jessica Prince novel and I am happy to say it won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
What happens when you have almost everything you want in your life, but that one last thing you want doesn’t want you back? Find out that answer by reading Sweet Sunshine by Jessica Prince.
This was a fun and entertaining friends to lovers/ unrequited romance novel. The story will touch on all of your emotions. I laughed out loud, cried a little, swooned a lot and even yelled at my kindle!! When you feel that many emotions, how can you not give it a 5 star rating.
The storyline was intriguing and kept my attention all the way through. I loved the pace of the story. Even though it takes Chloe and Derrick some time to actually get together, it never dragged the story down. I actually liked watching these two become friends first, because Derrick has some serious issues to work through before he can open his heart to Chloe. Their road to happiness isn’t an easy one, there were some serious bumps along the way. Will Chloe have the strength and determination to wait for the man she has loved for over a year?? Read this story and find out!!!
Sweet Sunshine is a standalone novel and the first book in her spinoff Pembrooke Series. This book spins off from Wildflower in Jessica’s Colors Series. Now I haven’t read Wildflower and I don’t feel it is necessary to read it before starting this book. Yes we do see Noah and Harlow quite a bit in this story, but I didn’t feel lost at all. All it really made me feel was that now I have to go back and read Wildflower to see Noah and Harlow’s story.
As I said earlier this book is about Chloe and Derrick. Chloe is the Best Friend of Harlow from Wildflower and is the fun and quirky bakery owner of Sinful Sweets. Overall she is happy with her life, but there is one thing that would take the cake, so to speak, that would put her happiness over the top….that is Derrick Anderson. Derrick Anderson is Pembrooke’s Deputy Sheriff and has lived in this town for over a year. he is also a single father to Eliza, an adorable 9 year old. He also has a B**** of an ex who makes his life a living H***. What he doesn’t know is he is also the crush of Chloe’s. Chloe has put her heart on the line for Derrick a couple times only to have it broken, so she has decided to move on….Will it be too late for Derrick, once he finally realizes what he wants??? Read the book and find out.
I would definitely recommend this book. If you are looking for that funny, sweet and sexy love story, that is filled with lots of sexual tension and angst, and even a little drama from the ex to keep it exciting, then this is a book you should read. I know I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I also know I will be going back and reading Jessica’s Colors Series!!!
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February 26, 2017
Eu li porque fiquei curiosa sobre os personagens. O herói tem muitas mulheres e não quer compromisso e a heroína é apaixonada por ele mas muito tímida.
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I read it because I was curious about the characters. The hero has many women and doesn't want to compromise and the heroine is in love with him but very shy.
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I read it because I was curious about the characters. The hero has many women and doesn't want to compromise and the heroine is in love with him but very shy.
July 26, 2023
Clueless Derrick
Derrick was so clueless in the beginning that I really had no sympathy for him. In fact, I was kinda hoping that Chloe would've dated Fletcher a few times and make Derrick grovel. Good story, but Jessica Prince has written better books than this one. In will continue to the next book in the series since I do really like her writing style.
Derrick was so clueless in the beginning that I really had no sympathy for him. In fact, I was kinda hoping that Chloe would've dated Fletcher a few times and make Derrick grovel. Good story, but Jessica Prince has written better books than this one. In will continue to the next book in the series since I do really like her writing style.
February 7, 2024
Reread and added a star.
June 2, 2016
I feel a little conflicted on this book. This was my first book to read by this author and I won a copy of the book on a Facebook giveaway. She seems like a nice person and I feel bad that I didn't totally love the book. There were some things that I did like and some things that I didn't like as much.
This was the story of Chloe and Derrick. Chloe owns a bakery and is best friends with Harlow, who is married to Nate, who is best friend with Derrick. Chloe has had a crush on Derrick since she met him. They often are in social situations together because of Nate and Harlow. Derrick is a single dad to a little girl, Eliza, and has a bad relationship history due to his crazy ex-wife. He dates a lot but doesn't have relationships and doesn't ever want to get married again. He is not interested in Chloe or even see her as anything but an aquaintance/somewhat friend. But Chloe doesn't know how uninterested in her he is and she asks him out only for him to shoot her way down and tell her he just wants to be friend. She decides to get over him and start internet dating and that is when Derrick starts to notice her. He starts to realize he could be interested in her and when he shows an interest, she jumps at the chance and their relationship develops from there. There is some drama with his ex-wife, but their relationship is fairly smooth sailing once they do get together.
What I did like:
- I really liked Chloe's character. She was sweet, funny and a good friend. She was a catch really. I felt bad for her when Derrick didn't see her as more than a friend. I kind of felt like she deserved better than him. She deserved someone who saw how awesome she was from the minute they met her.
- I liked the small town setting, the bakery, etc.
- I liked Eliza. She was cute and true to life.
- I liked Nate and Harlow's characters. Harlow was a really sweet friend to Chloe.
- Once Derrick decided that he wanted Chloe, he treated her well and was all about her. Towards the end of the book, I did feel their connection and think they were good together.
What didn't quite work for me:
-I didn't like how Derrick acted for the first 40-ish% of the book. I did not understand why he never thought Chloe was cute or was attracted to her for over a year after he met her (yet his nickname for her was Sunshine, so why not?). Until one day out of the blue, he suddenly noticed her. He just struck me as kind of jerk. I didn't get what Chloe liked so much about him or why women threw themselves at him. What made him so special? Then, when they did get together, I didn't feel like I could trust his feelings for her because I wasn't sure he really saw how great she was.
- I didn't like that Chloe was kind of a doormat for him. He turned her down several times and she came back for more. Once he told her he wanted her, she jumped at the chance. I kind of wanted her to move on to someone who appreciated her.
- The pacing of the book was kind of off for me. The first 40% of the book was Chloe liking Derrick and him friend-zoning her. Then, once he decided he wanted her, within a few days they were telling each other they loved each other. I know they had known each other for over a year but it still seemed unrealistic.
-Their sexy scenes were kind of mechanical and bland.
Bottom line:
Overall, I did like parts of the book and the writing was good. I am curious about Harlow and Nate's story so I will read more from this author in the future.
This was the story of Chloe and Derrick. Chloe owns a bakery and is best friends with Harlow, who is married to Nate, who is best friend with Derrick. Chloe has had a crush on Derrick since she met him. They often are in social situations together because of Nate and Harlow. Derrick is a single dad to a little girl, Eliza, and has a bad relationship history due to his crazy ex-wife. He dates a lot but doesn't have relationships and doesn't ever want to get married again. He is not interested in Chloe or even see her as anything but an aquaintance/somewhat friend. But Chloe doesn't know how uninterested in her he is and she asks him out only for him to shoot her way down and tell her he just wants to be friend. She decides to get over him and start internet dating and that is when Derrick starts to notice her. He starts to realize he could be interested in her and when he shows an interest, she jumps at the chance and their relationship develops from there. There is some drama with his ex-wife, but their relationship is fairly smooth sailing once they do get together.
What I did like:
- I really liked Chloe's character. She was sweet, funny and a good friend. She was a catch really. I felt bad for her when Derrick didn't see her as more than a friend. I kind of felt like she deserved better than him. She deserved someone who saw how awesome she was from the minute they met her.
- I liked the small town setting, the bakery, etc.
- I liked Eliza. She was cute and true to life.
- I liked Nate and Harlow's characters. Harlow was a really sweet friend to Chloe.
- Once Derrick decided that he wanted Chloe, he treated her well and was all about her. Towards the end of the book, I did feel their connection and think they were good together.
What didn't quite work for me:
-I didn't like how Derrick acted for the first 40-ish% of the book. I did not understand why he never thought Chloe was cute or was attracted to her for over a year after he met her (yet his nickname for her was Sunshine, so why not?). Until one day out of the blue, he suddenly noticed her. He just struck me as kind of jerk. I didn't get what Chloe liked so much about him or why women threw themselves at him. What made him so special? Then, when they did get together, I didn't feel like I could trust his feelings for her because I wasn't sure he really saw how great she was.
- I didn't like that Chloe was kind of a doormat for him. He turned her down several times and she came back for more. Once he told her he wanted her, she jumped at the chance. I kind of wanted her to move on to someone who appreciated her.
- The pacing of the book was kind of off for me. The first 40% of the book was Chloe liking Derrick and him friend-zoning her. Then, once he decided he wanted her, within a few days they were telling each other they loved each other. I know they had known each other for over a year but it still seemed unrealistic.
-Their sexy scenes were kind of mechanical and bland.
Bottom line:
Overall, I did like parts of the book and the writing was good. I am curious about Harlow and Nate's story so I will read more from this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2016
5 Book Trifecta Stars!!!
Yet again Ms. Prince has written another great story that as soon as I started it, I knew that this was going to be my favorite book she's written so far. The story is simple and something we've all read before, but the way this story unfolds makes it seem new and fresh at the same time. I got to laugh, cry and get a little irritated at times too.
This is the story of Derrick and Chloe and is the first in a spinoff from the Colors Series. Derrick has been in Jackson Hole for the last eighteen months and Chloe has been in love with him the entire time. When she finally gets the nerve up to ask him out, his response is not really what she was looking for, needless to say, her heart and feelings got a little crushed.
With this blow to her heart, Chloe takes on a cold front attitude with Derrick and he just can't figure it out. Aside from the fact that he thinks she's perfect, but couldn't possibly want him, he does what every woman hates to hear and plays the "friends" card.... this irritated me to no end. But I thought there's a lot of book to go so he can redeem himself right?
One of the other story lines I fell in love with while reading this book was the relationship Derrick has with his daughter Eliza and even better was Chloe's relationship with her as well. It was so sweet and brought tears to my eyes on a couple of occasions, both happy and sad.
Through a set of circumstances, Derrick forces himself into Chloe's life and this is when everything changes all for the good. When these two finally get together, there's some heat between them that literally had me fanning myself. These two are so perfect for each other. But, there's things working against them so it's not all sunshine and roses!
Are these two together strong enough to overcome the challenges placed before them? What or who is going to stop them? What happens when some of the decisions are taken out of their hands? To find out what I'm talking about, go pick up this wonderfully written and beautifully told story.
Yet again Ms. Prince has written another great story that as soon as I started it, I knew that this was going to be my favorite book she's written so far. The story is simple and something we've all read before, but the way this story unfolds makes it seem new and fresh at the same time. I got to laugh, cry and get a little irritated at times too.
This is the story of Derrick and Chloe and is the first in a spinoff from the Colors Series. Derrick has been in Jackson Hole for the last eighteen months and Chloe has been in love with him the entire time. When she finally gets the nerve up to ask him out, his response is not really what she was looking for, needless to say, her heart and feelings got a little crushed.
With this blow to her heart, Chloe takes on a cold front attitude with Derrick and he just can't figure it out. Aside from the fact that he thinks she's perfect, but couldn't possibly want him, he does what every woman hates to hear and plays the "friends" card.... this irritated me to no end. But I thought there's a lot of book to go so he can redeem himself right?
"So what do you say? Friends?"He extended his hand to me while I stood there, trying my best to pretend my chest wasn't cracking in half. Man, being friend-zoned sucked balls!"I loved how Chloe decided, with the help of Harlow, to explore other options which in this day and age includes online dating. I was rolling while reading this because I've had very similar dating experiences. Although I never had anyone like Derrick rescue me from a date from hell!!
One of the other story lines I fell in love with while reading this book was the relationship Derrick has with his daughter Eliza and even better was Chloe's relationship with her as well. It was so sweet and brought tears to my eyes on a couple of occasions, both happy and sad.
Through a set of circumstances, Derrick forces himself into Chloe's life and this is when everything changes all for the good. When these two finally get together, there's some heat between them that literally had me fanning myself. These two are so perfect for each other. But, there's things working against them so it's not all sunshine and roses!
Are these two together strong enough to overcome the challenges placed before them? What or who is going to stop them? What happens when some of the decisions are taken out of their hands? To find out what I'm talking about, go pick up this wonderfully written and beautifully told story.
May 30, 2016
If you've read Wildflower, the fourth of the Colors novels by Jessica Prince, you'll have already met Chloe and Derrick, respectively best friends of Harlow and Noah, whose interactions are generally limited to Derrick ordering coffee and occasional pastries from Chloe's bakery Sinfully Sweets, and Chloe getting all tongue tied in attempting to fill his order, but you don't need to have read it to enjoy Sweet Sunshine.
For such a smart guy, its a wonder that its never occurred to the devilishly handsome deputy Sheriff that there's a good reason Chloe gets all kinds of awkward in his presence, and only his presence, but the lawkeeper has other things on his mind.
Recently divorced from the bride of Satan and attempting to be the best father he can possibly be to nine year old Eliza while restricted to one weekend a fortnight, he's got absolutely no interest in anything remotely resembling a committed relationship with a woman ever again. Once burned, twice shy as the saying goes.
So when Chloe finally works up the courage to make some kind of move, its not really a surprise that her happily ever after doesn't appear on the next page, but the response she gets is almost worse than a straight up rejection.
As with its related works, this book comes across in a lighthearted and joyful style, with laughs and smiles to be found on almost every page. Chloe jumps off the page as a bright and vivacious young woman who, despite her body image issues, has a zest for life and baking that can't be quenched. Not even an unobtainable fantasy coming in for coffee daily.
Derrick on the other hand is convincing as a single father with a heart of gold who seems to be oblivious to so much going on around him. So badly burned from his past experiences, its almost as if he's got tunnel vision, seeing only his work, his daughter and when neither of them are around, then whatever woman can hold his attention for a few hours.
So much awkwardness, such endearing misunderstandings, such wonderful characters, old and new, young and really, really young. This story will have you laughing out loud while it warms your heart, and then, just for good measure, it'll drag a tear or two from your eyes and leave you wanting just that little bit more.
Wonderful
For such a smart guy, its a wonder that its never occurred to the devilishly handsome deputy Sheriff that there's a good reason Chloe gets all kinds of awkward in his presence, and only his presence, but the lawkeeper has other things on his mind.
Recently divorced from the bride of Satan and attempting to be the best father he can possibly be to nine year old Eliza while restricted to one weekend a fortnight, he's got absolutely no interest in anything remotely resembling a committed relationship with a woman ever again. Once burned, twice shy as the saying goes.
So when Chloe finally works up the courage to make some kind of move, its not really a surprise that her happily ever after doesn't appear on the next page, but the response she gets is almost worse than a straight up rejection.
As with its related works, this book comes across in a lighthearted and joyful style, with laughs and smiles to be found on almost every page. Chloe jumps off the page as a bright and vivacious young woman who, despite her body image issues, has a zest for life and baking that can't be quenched. Not even an unobtainable fantasy coming in for coffee daily.
Derrick on the other hand is convincing as a single father with a heart of gold who seems to be oblivious to so much going on around him. So badly burned from his past experiences, its almost as if he's got tunnel vision, seeing only his work, his daughter and when neither of them are around, then whatever woman can hold his attention for a few hours.
So much awkwardness, such endearing misunderstandings, such wonderful characters, old and new, young and really, really young. This story will have you laughing out loud while it warms your heart, and then, just for good measure, it'll drag a tear or two from your eyes and leave you wanting just that little bit more.
Wonderful
May 31, 2016
Sweet Sunshine is the first book in the Pembrooke series and features a couple that we met in a previous book but rest assured this book can be read as a complete stand-alone if you are new to Jessica Prince’s fabulous writing. This book contains a sweet, curvy baker that falls for a deputy, single dad. The story itself is pretty low on drama and of course it has a HEA.
Chloe Delaney is the owner of Sinful Sweets bakery and while she has been living her dream with owning her own business her romantic life has been permanently placed on the back burner. Living in the small town of Pembrooke has it’s advantages but the dating pool is certainly not one of them. While her best friend Harlow finally figured it all out with Noah she is still left with a huge crush on Noah’s best friend Derrick…
Deputy Derrick Anderson moved to town a few years ago and while he is now divorced he still carries bleeding wounds from his horrible marriage to his daughter --Eliza’s-- mother. Derrick vows never to be put in a situation where he will commit to another woman again because it went so terribly wrong the first time. He prefers the one-night stands and easy hook-ups where the women know the score. Therefore, when sweet little Chloe makes her feelings clear he backs way off in the hopes of not hurting her, but what if his feelings have changed...
This book had everything I look for when it comes to small town romances. Derrick’s alpha protectiveness mixed with Chloe’s sweetness was the perfect mix and how they came together for Eliza just really made it all the more special. Blend all this with the smoking hot sexy times and it truly was a great read. Now while I really liked this first book in Pembrooke I have a feeling the next one is going to be EPIC :)
Chloe Delaney is the owner of Sinful Sweets bakery and while she has been living her dream with owning her own business her romantic life has been permanently placed on the back burner. Living in the small town of Pembrooke has it’s advantages but the dating pool is certainly not one of them. While her best friend Harlow finally figured it all out with Noah she is still left with a huge crush on Noah’s best friend Derrick…
Deputy Derrick Anderson moved to town a few years ago and while he is now divorced he still carries bleeding wounds from his horrible marriage to his daughter --Eliza’s-- mother. Derrick vows never to be put in a situation where he will commit to another woman again because it went so terribly wrong the first time. He prefers the one-night stands and easy hook-ups where the women know the score. Therefore, when sweet little Chloe makes her feelings clear he backs way off in the hopes of not hurting her, but what if his feelings have changed...
This book had everything I look for when it comes to small town romances. Derrick’s alpha protectiveness mixed with Chloe’s sweetness was the perfect mix and how they came together for Eliza just really made it all the more special. Blend all this with the smoking hot sexy times and it truly was a great read. Now while I really liked this first book in Pembrooke I have a feeling the next one is going to be EPIC :)
May 30, 2016
4 Daddy-Daughter Stars
Is there anything cuter than a daddy and his little girl? A dad who wants to take care of his little princess? And give her lots of cupcakes.
Warning: This is a spin off of another series. You don't have to read Wildflower first, but you will want to go back and read it because it's more of Ms Prince.
Chloe runs her own bakery. She loves her life in Pembrooke. Loves her shop. Loves lusting after the sexy deputy in town.
I felt giddy at his attention, because clearly, my inner self was a boy-band-adoring teenager who love to squeal incessantly.
Derrick is a single dad. He has an adorable daughter, a crazy ex and no desire for anything that remotely resembles a relationship. He sees Chloe as a friend of a friend who makes great cupcakes.
Ladies and gentlemen, we've just entered the seventh circle of hell.
Until one day when the scales fall of his eyes. He sees Chloe as the curvy, sassy, interesting woman she was all along. Sometime guys are so dumb.
But Derrick doesn't come without baggage. Remember that ex and daughter? Is Chloe ready to share his attention? Is she ready to put up with everything that comes with dating a single dad?
Chloe and Derrick are sexy and fun. Ms Prince has given us another great read. One full of adults acting like adults. There are hard choices, real life problems, doubts, hopes and dreams. She has proven once again real people want to read about real characters.
Is there anything cuter than a daddy and his little girl? A dad who wants to take care of his little princess? And give her lots of cupcakes.
Warning: This is a spin off of another series. You don't have to read Wildflower first, but you will want to go back and read it because it's more of Ms Prince.
Chloe runs her own bakery. She loves her life in Pembrooke. Loves her shop. Loves lusting after the sexy deputy in town.
I felt giddy at his attention, because clearly, my inner self was a boy-band-adoring teenager who love to squeal incessantly.
Derrick is a single dad. He has an adorable daughter, a crazy ex and no desire for anything that remotely resembles a relationship. He sees Chloe as a friend of a friend who makes great cupcakes.
Ladies and gentlemen, we've just entered the seventh circle of hell.
Until one day when the scales fall of his eyes. He sees Chloe as the curvy, sassy, interesting woman she was all along. Sometime guys are so dumb.
But Derrick doesn't come without baggage. Remember that ex and daughter? Is Chloe ready to share his attention? Is she ready to put up with everything that comes with dating a single dad?
Chloe and Derrick are sexy and fun. Ms Prince has given us another great read. One full of adults acting like adults. There are hard choices, real life problems, doubts, hopes and dreams. She has proven once again real people want to read about real characters.
May 29, 2016
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Crazy Cajun Book Addicts for an honest review.
I'm a massive fan of Jessica Prince and I have to say this is my favourite book of hers so far. We first got a glimpse of Chloe and Derrick in Wildflower and I was really intregued by them and where their relationship would go and I definitely wasn't disappointed it's a beautiful, sweet story that you definitely don't want to miss.
Chloe owns a bakery and can be a little down on herself at times about the way she looks. She's had a crush on the new deputy in town Derrick for the last year and a half when she finally plucks up the courage to ask him out on a date let's just say that things don't to to plan and she's left heartbroken.
Derrick has just gone through a divorce with the ex wife from hell the only thing that really matters to him now is their nine year old daughter Eliza. He's determined he's never doing the whole relationship thing again and although he likes Chloe he thinks she deserves someone that can give her everything she wants out of life including a commitment and a family of her own and he feels that's just not him. But will his feeling change as he really gets to know Chloe and sees the way she his with his daughter before its to late.
I'm a massive fan of Jessica Prince and I have to say this is my favourite book of hers so far. We first got a glimpse of Chloe and Derrick in Wildflower and I was really intregued by them and where their relationship would go and I definitely wasn't disappointed it's a beautiful, sweet story that you definitely don't want to miss.
Chloe owns a bakery and can be a little down on herself at times about the way she looks. She's had a crush on the new deputy in town Derrick for the last year and a half when she finally plucks up the courage to ask him out on a date let's just say that things don't to to plan and she's left heartbroken.
Derrick has just gone through a divorce with the ex wife from hell the only thing that really matters to him now is their nine year old daughter Eliza. He's determined he's never doing the whole relationship thing again and although he likes Chloe he thinks she deserves someone that can give her everything she wants out of life including a commitment and a family of her own and he feels that's just not him. But will his feeling change as he really gets to know Chloe and sees the way she his with his daughter before its to late.
July 6, 2024
Chloe Delaney has everything she could dream about, she owns her own bakery and has wonderful friends who support her. She also has a huge crush on Derrick Anderson, a cop and single father who she thought might be interested in her until she realizes he doesn't really see her as anything but a kind of a friend. Chloe decides she is done and moving on but then Derrick decides he is interested but not in the same way. Chloe wants a relationship, Derrick just wants her in his bed for how long he doesn't know. With an ex wife who has him regretting the day he married her even if it brought him the greatest joy in his life, his daughter. Derrick knows he can't be in a relationship again, but everything about Chloe is different could he be wrong about having a second chance at love?
This was wonderful. Chloe is sweet and adorable and Derrick for awhile is just clueless about Chloe's feelings and at times makes it worse then it needs to be where her heart is concerned. Great story to get swept away with. I can't wait to read more of this talented authors books.
This was wonderful. Chloe is sweet and adorable and Derrick for awhile is just clueless about Chloe's feelings and at times makes it worse then it needs to be where her heart is concerned. Great story to get swept away with. I can't wait to read more of this talented authors books.
June 13, 2024
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, suspense, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Chloe and Derrick‘s story. Chloe is in love with Derrick but after he hurts her one day she is determined to move on. She tries everything but she still wants him. Derrick had a horrible ex and is determined to stay single. He does not need the hassle. But he feels things for Chloe but it seems that every time he opens his mouth he ends up hurting her. Can he figure out his heart before he hurts her so much that she will not want him again? Can Chloe trust that Derrick will not change his mind about a relationship? What happens when someone does not want them together? Can they survive the crazy and come out stronger?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
This is Chloe and Derrick‘s story. Chloe is in love with Derrick but after he hurts her one day she is determined to move on. She tries everything but she still wants him. Derrick had a horrible ex and is determined to stay single. He does not need the hassle. But he feels things for Chloe but it seems that every time he opens his mouth he ends up hurting her. Can he figure out his heart before he hurts her so much that she will not want him again? Can Chloe trust that Derrick will not change his mind about a relationship? What happens when someone does not want them together? Can they survive the crazy and come out stronger?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
September 21, 2016
A sweet story with a Kristen Ashley vibe without being a rip off. The author gives us a hot alpha cop with an evil ex & a beautiful daughter, a heroine who's a bit of a dork, but with a brain she uses and good friends she loves, and a story that grabs you from the start. I especially liked how the relationship bewtween Chloe & Derrick moved 2 steps forward, one step back through the first half, and how Chloe's relationship with Eliza was solid from the beginning. It made for a feel good read with some ups & downs.
I enjoyed the writing style and the author's voice, although I'm not always a fan of dual POV, it worked most of the time in this book.
I enjoyed the writing style and the author's voice, although I'm not always a fan of dual POV, it worked most of the time in this book.
May 27, 2016
This was the first book I read by Jessica and I really, really enjoyed it.
Derrick Anderson is Tall, Dark and Handsome. He is every woman's fantasy and that includes Chloe Delaney, Derrick never saw Chloe as anything more then and a friend and Chloe wanted the whole package.
They both have puzzles that need to be put together. But the thing that really made love Chloe was how she tool to Derrick's daughter Eliza. Eliza is 9 almost 10. And the 2 really just seemed to click. I cant wait for Eliza and Ethans story
Derrick Anderson is Tall, Dark and Handsome. He is every woman's fantasy and that includes Chloe Delaney, Derrick never saw Chloe as anything more then and a friend and Chloe wanted the whole package.
They both have puzzles that need to be put together. But the thing that really made love Chloe was how she tool to Derrick's daughter Eliza. Eliza is 9 almost 10. And the 2 really just seemed to click. I cant wait for Eliza and Ethans story
June 9, 2024
book one in box set welcome to pembrooke books 1-3 Sweet Sunshine, Coming Full Circle ; A Broken Soul
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