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Harbor Cove #2
The Forever Family
A heartwarming story about sisters, falling in love, and discovering life’s greatest adventures are made with those who matter most by New York Times bestselling author Shirley Jump.
The youngest of the three close-knit sisters, Emma Monroe is the family wild child. She’s never stayed with anything—job, apartment, boyfriend—for long, and she likes it that way. Except lately, her freedom has seemed less like a gift and more like a burden. Maybe that’s why a yoga retreat in Las Vegas leads to a spur-of-the-moment decision to marry Luke Carter, a man she’s met exactly three times.
The next morning, instead of facing Luke, Emma sneaks back home to Harbor Cove, where she should have nama- stayed in the first place. Still, it shouldn’t be difficult to annul their hours-long marriage. Except Emma’s brand-new husband arrives in town to convince her to give them a chance. With the support of her family, can Emma envision a future where her biggest adventures come not from running away but from staying… and risking it all on love?
The youngest of the three close-knit sisters, Emma Monroe is the family wild child. She’s never stayed with anything—job, apartment, boyfriend—for long, and she likes it that way. Except lately, her freedom has seemed less like a gift and more like a burden. Maybe that’s why a yoga retreat in Las Vegas leads to a spur-of-the-moment decision to marry Luke Carter, a man she’s met exactly three times.
The next morning, instead of facing Luke, Emma sneaks back home to Harbor Cove, where she should have nama- stayed in the first place. Still, it shouldn’t be difficult to annul their hours-long marriage. Except Emma’s brand-new husband arrives in town to convince her to give them a chance. With the support of her family, can Emma envision a future where her biggest adventures come not from running away but from staying… and risking it all on love?
336 pages, Paperback
Published January 17, 2023
12 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Shirley Jump
442 books743 followersShirley Jump is a writing instructor and an award-winning, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Amazon, and USA Today bestselling author who has published more than 80 books in 24 countries. She has spoken all over the world about the power of narrative and how to create compelling books. A former reporter and communications director for a marketing agency, she uses her diverse background to help clients create impactful books that readers can’t down.
She knows the path to publication isn’t all rainbows and unicorns, so to help writers write their best possible book, she offers monthly Manuscript Masterminds through her website, www.WritingCompellingFiction.com.
On her channel, https://YouTube.com/@WritingCompellin..., she unlocks the secrets behind compelling novels and delves into the psychological aspect of overcoming creativity-stoppers like doubt and perfectionism. Follow her channel for more writing exercises, classes, and behind-the-scenes writing lessons or join her Manuscript Mastermind to build your tribe of like-minded writers and receive crucial feedback on your pages.
She knows the path to publication isn’t all rainbows and unicorns, so to help writers write their best possible book, she offers monthly Manuscript Masterminds through her website, www.WritingCompellingFiction.com.
On her channel, https://YouTube.com/@WritingCompellin..., she unlocks the secrets behind compelling novels and delves into the psychological aspect of overcoming creativity-stoppers like doubt and perfectionism. Follow her channel for more writing exercises, classes, and behind-the-scenes writing lessons or join her Manuscript Mastermind to build your tribe of like-minded writers and receive crucial feedback on your pages.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 27, 2022
Review coming soon.
January 5, 2023
Four and a Half Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
The Forever Family by Shirley Jump is an accidental marriage story with some family drama that I just loved.
Story Recap:
Emma Monroe is the youngest of three sisters, and the most impulsive. She proves that when she suddenly marries Luke Carter at a yoga retreat in Nevada. She freaks out and runs home to Harbor Cove instead of facing Luke after the marriage.
Emma is surprised when Luke moves to Harbor Cove for a job, and also, he doesn’t want to annul the marriage without at least trying to see if they are compatible. Emma is determined to end the marriage so she can prove to her sisters that she’s not a flake and is growing more responsible. But, with Luke now living in the same town, can she resist his charms before they can agree on an annulment?
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this cute story. Emma is a bit of a mess but has a huge heart. I liked that Luke didn’t want to give up on the marriage until they tried to make it work. It’s very clear that Emma and Luke have some great chemistry, but once they spend more time together a real friendship happens, and from that comes deeper feelings.
Although this book focused on Emma, I enjoyed the two other sisters as well. It was fun to catch up with Gabriella from the previous book, The Marvelous Monroe Girls and I’m looking forward to Margaret’s story. The sister's relationships are growing stronger and I enjoy their interactions.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend The Forever Family to anyone who enjoys women’s fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Forever Family by Shirley Jump is an accidental marriage story with some family drama that I just loved.
Story Recap:
Emma Monroe is the youngest of three sisters, and the most impulsive. She proves that when she suddenly marries Luke Carter at a yoga retreat in Nevada. She freaks out and runs home to Harbor Cove instead of facing Luke after the marriage.
Emma is surprised when Luke moves to Harbor Cove for a job, and also, he doesn’t want to annul the marriage without at least trying to see if they are compatible. Emma is determined to end the marriage so she can prove to her sisters that she’s not a flake and is growing more responsible. But, with Luke now living in the same town, can she resist his charms before they can agree on an annulment?
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this cute story. Emma is a bit of a mess but has a huge heart. I liked that Luke didn’t want to give up on the marriage until they tried to make it work. It’s very clear that Emma and Luke have some great chemistry, but once they spend more time together a real friendship happens, and from that comes deeper feelings.
Although this book focused on Emma, I enjoyed the two other sisters as well. It was fun to catch up with Gabriella from the previous book, The Marvelous Monroe Girls and I’m looking forward to Margaret’s story. The sister's relationships are growing stronger and I enjoy their interactions.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend The Forever Family to anyone who enjoys women’s fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 9, 2023
This was such a lovely story. It’s the second book in the author’s “Harbor Cove” series and revolves around Emma, the youngest of the three Monroe Sisters. This book can easily be read as a standalone.
Emma is the Monroe sister that enjoys travelling and living in the moment. She’s not interested in a long-term relationship and can’t wait to leave her small town. Her heart’s desire is rather in enriching the lives of children who are facing challenges. Having lost her mother at the age of five, she can relate.
The book opens with Emma waking up at a Las Vegas retreat – married. Her new husband Luke, while not a stranger, is someone she’s only met in yoga classes around the U.S. She flees the retreat and returns home to begin the process of annulment in hopes she never sees Luke again.
Luke is a single parent and estranged from his daughter’s mother who is currently in rehab. He’s not been a big part of his child’s life up to the time her mother dropped her off. He knows he needs to provide roots for his daughter, and moves to live with his uncle in Harbor Cove.
Now living in the same small town, Emma and Luke run into each other and begin a friendship and much to Emma’s chagrin a budding romance. But with the annulment finalized in a few weeks, and Emma heading out of town for several months, is this relationship something she should pursue?
The Forever Family is an emotional read with some very funny moments. Luke’s four-year-old daughter Scout was a highlight of this book. I loved how her manner changed as Luke began parenting her more effectively and she felt more secure. I appreciated the discussion of Luke’s Uncle’s depression as well as Scout’s mother’s alcoholism which helps to normalize mental health and addiction issues.
The book also brought the readers up to date on what was happening with Emma’s sisters and Grandmother. I love reading about a romance between older characters and I enjoyed this part of the story. It appears to me that it’s time for Emma’s oldest sister Margaret to be the focus of the third book in the series. I look forward to reading it.
I recommend this book to readers that enjoy Romance and Women’s Fiction. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
Emma is the Monroe sister that enjoys travelling and living in the moment. She’s not interested in a long-term relationship and can’t wait to leave her small town. Her heart’s desire is rather in enriching the lives of children who are facing challenges. Having lost her mother at the age of five, she can relate.
The book opens with Emma waking up at a Las Vegas retreat – married. Her new husband Luke, while not a stranger, is someone she’s only met in yoga classes around the U.S. She flees the retreat and returns home to begin the process of annulment in hopes she never sees Luke again.
Luke is a single parent and estranged from his daughter’s mother who is currently in rehab. He’s not been a big part of his child’s life up to the time her mother dropped her off. He knows he needs to provide roots for his daughter, and moves to live with his uncle in Harbor Cove.
Now living in the same small town, Emma and Luke run into each other and begin a friendship and much to Emma’s chagrin a budding romance. But with the annulment finalized in a few weeks, and Emma heading out of town for several months, is this relationship something she should pursue?
The Forever Family is an emotional read with some very funny moments. Luke’s four-year-old daughter Scout was a highlight of this book. I loved how her manner changed as Luke began parenting her more effectively and she felt more secure. I appreciated the discussion of Luke’s Uncle’s depression as well as Scout’s mother’s alcoholism which helps to normalize mental health and addiction issues.
The book also brought the readers up to date on what was happening with Emma’s sisters and Grandmother. I love reading about a romance between older characters and I enjoyed this part of the story. It appears to me that it’s time for Emma’s oldest sister Margaret to be the focus of the third book in the series. I look forward to reading it.
I recommend this book to readers that enjoy Romance and Women’s Fiction. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
January 19, 2023
Emma Monroe is a free spirit, never staying in one place too long, and never opening herself up the possibility of attachments. While this lifestyle has served her well for a while now, it's starting to lose it's appeal, and she's starting to crave something a little more normal. Which leads her to do something completely out of character... something all together scary for a girl like her. She marries a man after only seeing him three times and now he wants to see if they can make it last forever... but can she do that?
The Forever Family is an emotional page-turner that will give your heart-strings a nice little tug. Emma has never really been open to the idea of love and forever, usually the thought of it kicks in her need to run, but lately she has been a little less afraid of it. When she marries a man that is pretty much a stranger to her she thinks it sounds like a wonderful idea at the time, but when morning rolls around and she's had time to think it over, running sounds like a better plan. She's hoping that a trip home to Harbor Cove will hold all the answers for her, but what she doesn't expect is for her new husband to show up and ask her to give them a chance. Which also means putting down roots, normalcy, and opening her heart to love... which is something that makes this free little bird want to fly. Can she really give up her freedom for love and will it last?
This wonderfully penned literary gem came with all the makings to leave the heart happy and stir up a few laughs. I loved these characters so much, each unique and offered something special to the story. Once I met them I had a hard time letting them go. I loved watching Emma embrace her new life, learn accept all the changes and grow into a new person of sorts. Her and Luke were pure magic on the page, they had chemistry for days and it was easy to see why they were made for one another! Highly recommend this one, it's delightfully penned words will touch your heart and keep you entertained from beginning to end!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
The Forever Family is an emotional page-turner that will give your heart-strings a nice little tug. Emma has never really been open to the idea of love and forever, usually the thought of it kicks in her need to run, but lately she has been a little less afraid of it. When she marries a man that is pretty much a stranger to her she thinks it sounds like a wonderful idea at the time, but when morning rolls around and she's had time to think it over, running sounds like a better plan. She's hoping that a trip home to Harbor Cove will hold all the answers for her, but what she doesn't expect is for her new husband to show up and ask her to give them a chance. Which also means putting down roots, normalcy, and opening her heart to love... which is something that makes this free little bird want to fly. Can she really give up her freedom for love and will it last?
This wonderfully penned literary gem came with all the makings to leave the heart happy and stir up a few laughs. I loved these characters so much, each unique and offered something special to the story. Once I met them I had a hard time letting them go. I loved watching Emma embrace her new life, learn accept all the changes and grow into a new person of sorts. Her and Luke were pure magic on the page, they had chemistry for days and it was easy to see why they were made for one another! Highly recommend this one, it's delightfully penned words will touch your heart and keep you entertained from beginning to end!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
January 15, 2023
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
SPICE: 🔥.5
Emma Monroe has made a mistake. The commitment-phobic wild child has married someone she barely knew to get into an exclusive yoga retreat, and regret has made her run away to her family home in Harbor Cove. When her husband and single father Luke Carter follows her in an attempt to convince her that their marriage might not be a careless decision, could she be able to set her wild-child ways to settle down with a family of her own?
Talk about an angsty and emotional read. Shirley Jump eases us into the read with the morning-after of Emma and Luke's fake wedding. From there, she navigates us cleverly through the main characters' arc in dealing with their personal problems and why they each have their own reservations about their fake marriage.
I love how family-centric this read is with Emma's sister and grandmother and Luke's daughter and uncle's stories woven nicely into Emma and Luke's romance.
I would have loved a little more spice as Emma and Luke's chemistry is just absolutely sizzling.
This is the second book in the Harbor Cove series, but it can be a read as a standalone. The other Monroe sisters are at the heart of this read, but Jump does a great job of providing context into who's who.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Shirley Jump, Forever Publishing, and NetGalley for providing an ARC. **
SPICE: 🔥.5
Emma Monroe has made a mistake. The commitment-phobic wild child has married someone she barely knew to get into an exclusive yoga retreat, and regret has made her run away to her family home in Harbor Cove. When her husband and single father Luke Carter follows her in an attempt to convince her that their marriage might not be a careless decision, could she be able to set her wild-child ways to settle down with a family of her own?
Talk about an angsty and emotional read. Shirley Jump eases us into the read with the morning-after of Emma and Luke's fake wedding. From there, she navigates us cleverly through the main characters' arc in dealing with their personal problems and why they each have their own reservations about their fake marriage.
I love how family-centric this read is with Emma's sister and grandmother and Luke's daughter and uncle's stories woven nicely into Emma and Luke's romance.
I would have loved a little more spice as Emma and Luke's chemistry is just absolutely sizzling.
This is the second book in the Harbor Cove series, but it can be a read as a standalone. The other Monroe sisters are at the heart of this read, but Jump does a great job of providing context into who's who.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Shirley Jump, Forever Publishing, and NetGalley for providing an ARC. **
January 8, 2023
The Forever Family by Shirley Jump, book two in her Harbor Cover series, is about family, friendship, and love in Harbor Cove. Emma Monroe, the youngest of three close sisters, is a free spirit who seldom stayed with anything for very long; job, apartment, or boyfriend. She does a lot of things without thinking, which sometimes has major consequences. She decides to attend a yoga retreat in Las Vegas, without reading the paperwork, which leads to discovering that the retreat is for couples who will be married or renew their vows. Meeting Luke Carter, a man she’s met exactly three times prior, at the retreat seems serendipitous, so they pretend to be a couple; only to be legally married by the retreat leader in a group ceremony. Emma might be spontaneous, but even this is too much for her. The next morning, instead of facing Luke, Emma sneaks out, back home to Harbor Cove, where she should have nama-stayed in the first place. It shouldn’t be difficult to annul their hours-long marriage. Except Emma’s brand-new husband arrives in town to convince her to give their marriage a chance.
Luke arrives in Harbor Cove with his young daughter, Scout, who he needs to take care of while her mom is in rehab. He doesn't have time for work, raising a daughter and trying to navigate the divorce Emma wants. When he moves to Emma's town to be closer to his uncle, he doesn't realize it is the same town she lives in. With Luke nearby, he and Emma are bound to cross paths and interact. Being a long-distant father to Scout, Luke is way over his head in the parental department. Fortunately for him, Emma knows a few tricks to help him out and teach him how to be a father. During this time, Scout bonds with Emma, enjoying the time they spend together. Emma plans to leave town soon, after investing in, and getting a job with a non-profit that will help kids in another country. Except, nothing with this organization seems to be ready making Emma wonder if she made another mistake, in her long string of them. With the support of her family and Luke, Emma can finally envision a future where her biggest adventures come from within.
Ms. Jump wrote a sweet and endearing love story that should not be missed. She provided a tale rich with emotions, attraction, chemistry, clever banter, good intentions, and a cast of secondary characters assisting Emma and Luke together find the real place where they belong. I highly recommend The Forever Family to other readers and I look forward to Margaret’s story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Luke arrives in Harbor Cove with his young daughter, Scout, who he needs to take care of while her mom is in rehab. He doesn't have time for work, raising a daughter and trying to navigate the divorce Emma wants. When he moves to Emma's town to be closer to his uncle, he doesn't realize it is the same town she lives in. With Luke nearby, he and Emma are bound to cross paths and interact. Being a long-distant father to Scout, Luke is way over his head in the parental department. Fortunately for him, Emma knows a few tricks to help him out and teach him how to be a father. During this time, Scout bonds with Emma, enjoying the time they spend together. Emma plans to leave town soon, after investing in, and getting a job with a non-profit that will help kids in another country. Except, nothing with this organization seems to be ready making Emma wonder if she made another mistake, in her long string of them. With the support of her family and Luke, Emma can finally envision a future where her biggest adventures come from within.
Ms. Jump wrote a sweet and endearing love story that should not be missed. She provided a tale rich with emotions, attraction, chemistry, clever banter, good intentions, and a cast of secondary characters assisting Emma and Luke together find the real place where they belong. I highly recommend The Forever Family to other readers and I look forward to Margaret’s story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 16, 2023
The Forever Family is a nice continuation of the Harbor Cove series but can easily be a stand alone. It was nice to be reunited with the Monroe sisters and see what they are up to now. This is youngest sister Emma's story and was a roller coaster ride! She's always running away from something, but is the grass always greener where she hopes to end up?
Emma is working at a job she hates being an event planner at a local hotel. The bridezillas get to her every time and her last one is a doozy! When she's planning children's events she seems to be in her element but she's got one foot out the door as she hopes to work with children overseas with a local charity.
The story has multiple stories being told with Emma and Luke front and center. They accidentally got married but she doesn't plan for it to last long even if they do have chemistry. I liked Luke's relationship with his young daughter and his uncle and Emma's with her sisters, grandmother who raised them and their dad. Emma and Luke's daughter, Scout seem to share a special bond. There are twists and turns to the story as we understand some of what drives Emma. She and Luke seem to get each other and Emma's scared any time there are emotions involved. But Luke seems to get her and understand some of what motivates her as does her dad. There is some closure and some happily ever afters but there are more stories to tell since there are a few loose ends.
Ms. Jump is an author whose contemporary books I enjoy. I have added a few more of her books to my TBR pile.
Emma is working at a job she hates being an event planner at a local hotel. The bridezillas get to her every time and her last one is a doozy! When she's planning children's events she seems to be in her element but she's got one foot out the door as she hopes to work with children overseas with a local charity.
The story has multiple stories being told with Emma and Luke front and center. They accidentally got married but she doesn't plan for it to last long even if they do have chemistry. I liked Luke's relationship with his young daughter and his uncle and Emma's with her sisters, grandmother who raised them and their dad. Emma and Luke's daughter, Scout seem to share a special bond. There are twists and turns to the story as we understand some of what drives Emma. She and Luke seem to get each other and Emma's scared any time there are emotions involved. But Luke seems to get her and understand some of what motivates her as does her dad. There is some closure and some happily ever afters but there are more stories to tell since there are a few loose ends.
Ms. Jump is an author whose contemporary books I enjoy. I have added a few more of her books to my TBR pile.
January 13, 2023
Emma wakes up and realizes she married Luke Carter in Las Vegas. She’s only met the handsome looking guy 3 times and even though she is the wild child out of her and her 2 siblings, she has shocked even herself for this spur of the moment marriage!
She goes back home to Harbor Cove where her grandma lives. Her grandma tells her that a family member can get her marriage annulled and that’s exactly what Emma does, even though it just takes some time for it to happen.
While at Harbor Cove, Emma cannot believe her eyes. She sees Luke Carter there with his 4 year old daughter, Scout, who is throwing a fit. Emma calms Scout down so quickly that Emma must be a toddler whisperer!
Emma and Luke see each other around with events happening at the hotel where Emma is working at. Luke can’t help but have feelings for Emma, especially when she is so good with Scout. Emma loves spending time with Scout and starts to enjoy Luke’s company, but she decides she is going to leave soon to volunteer at a great organization.
What will happen with Emma, Luke, and Scout?
This was such a heartwarming book to read and would make for a perfect book for some relaxation at the beach, on vacation, or even in the coziest spot at home. You can’t help but root for the characters to realixe how they really feel and you just fall in love with how cute Scout and Emma’s grandmother are. They really make you wish you were part of their family!!
She goes back home to Harbor Cove where her grandma lives. Her grandma tells her that a family member can get her marriage annulled and that’s exactly what Emma does, even though it just takes some time for it to happen.
While at Harbor Cove, Emma cannot believe her eyes. She sees Luke Carter there with his 4 year old daughter, Scout, who is throwing a fit. Emma calms Scout down so quickly that Emma must be a toddler whisperer!
Emma and Luke see each other around with events happening at the hotel where Emma is working at. Luke can’t help but have feelings for Emma, especially when she is so good with Scout. Emma loves spending time with Scout and starts to enjoy Luke’s company, but she decides she is going to leave soon to volunteer at a great organization.
What will happen with Emma, Luke, and Scout?
This was such a heartwarming book to read and would make for a perfect book for some relaxation at the beach, on vacation, or even in the coziest spot at home. You can’t help but root for the characters to realixe how they really feel and you just fall in love with how cute Scout and Emma’s grandmother are. They really make you wish you were part of their family!!
November 7, 2022
I chose this book because I am a sucker for accidentally married books and while this one wasn't in Vegas, it still was a cute story. Emma and Luke are at a yoga retreat only to discover that it is for couples renewing their vows or getting married. In order to not get kicked out, Emma and Luke pretend to be a couple, but one night they have a ceremony in which the leader marries them.. and it's for real. Emma is always spontanious, but even this is too far for her.
Luke has a young daughter that he needs to take care of while his ex is in rehab. He doesn't have time for work, raising a daughter and trying to navigate this divorce. When he moves to Emma's town to be closer to his uncle, he doesn't realize it is the same town she lives in. When Emma meets his daughter Scout, he knows he's done for. Emma is navagating relationships with her sisters and her grandmother, but doesn't plan on staying in town much longer. She's a free spirit and her older sister is tired of cleaning up her messes, this impromtu marriage just being another one in a long string of bad choices.
As Luke and Emma come together, they realize they can help each other more than they thought, just until the divorce is final. I really enjoyed the love that built between Emma and Luke and the fact that it took time to get there. If you want a low angst, low steam read, this is absolutely for you.
Thank you to Forever, Shirley Jump and Netgalley for an early copy.
Luke has a young daughter that he needs to take care of while his ex is in rehab. He doesn't have time for work, raising a daughter and trying to navigate this divorce. When he moves to Emma's town to be closer to his uncle, he doesn't realize it is the same town she lives in. When Emma meets his daughter Scout, he knows he's done for. Emma is navagating relationships with her sisters and her grandmother, but doesn't plan on staying in town much longer. She's a free spirit and her older sister is tired of cleaning up her messes, this impromtu marriage just being another one in a long string of bad choices.
As Luke and Emma come together, they realize they can help each other more than they thought, just until the divorce is final. I really enjoyed the love that built between Emma and Luke and the fact that it took time to get there. If you want a low angst, low steam read, this is absolutely for you.
Thank you to Forever, Shirley Jump and Netgalley for an early copy.
January 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this book even though I have trouble buying into someone "accidentally" getting married. Emma and Luke know each other, but then run into each other again at a yoga retreat where the head guy is performing marriages and renewals. Emma has had enough to drink that she agrees to it when Luke suggests they jump on the band wagon. Emma walks away the next morning planning their annulment.
The rest of the book is more to my liking. Emma and Luke find themselves in the same town weeks before the annulment is to go through. Luke is dealing with an epic tantrum throwing daughter and Emma is working with a bridezilla that has won medals in the category. The support they offer each other along with the attraction that won't go away seems like they would come together. There's a catch--Emma is leaving the country. She's leaving the country, that is, unless her once again impulsive behavior leaves her in trouble again and the butt of more family jokes.
Can Luke get her to take a chance on them and come to see her own value or will she go through with the annulment?
Thanks to Forever Pub and NetGalley for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
The rest of the book is more to my liking. Emma and Luke find themselves in the same town weeks before the annulment is to go through. Luke is dealing with an epic tantrum throwing daughter and Emma is working with a bridezilla that has won medals in the category. The support they offer each other along with the attraction that won't go away seems like they would come together. There's a catch--Emma is leaving the country. She's leaving the country, that is, unless her once again impulsive behavior leaves her in trouble again and the butt of more family jokes.
Can Luke get her to take a chance on them and come to see her own value or will she go through with the annulment?
Thanks to Forever Pub and NetGalley for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
January 3, 2025
This book was just fine! It's about the youngest, most impulsive sister, Emma. She got married on a whim at a yoga conference because it was yoga/marriage retreat and she wanted to attend and needed a husband. Her new husband, Luke, ends up coming to live in her town (unbeknownst to him) and they have to decide if they want to annul their marriage or go for it. He has a daughter named Scout that he has sole custody of while his ex gets clean from alcoholism. Scout (the daughter) and Emma hit it off and she is such a great caretaker that Luke starts falling in love with her. The whole book is them waiting for the annulment and falling in love in the process. Emma had planned to go on a worldwide non profit adventure, but the organization tanked and she decides to stay home and settle (something she never thought she'd do). The book was very fine. If I set it down, I didn't care to pick it back up, but when I was reading it I was entertained enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2023
Emma has always been flighty. She leaps first and looks later. She’s biding time until she jets off for new adventures. Except, she marries on the fly to Luke, who also comes with an adorable energetic 4 year old named Scout.
Luke has had to rearrange his life and become the responsible parent.
I liked this second Monroe sisters book. I actually liked Emma better than Gabby, although she dithered until the very end.
I loved reading about the bidding romance between Harry and Eleanor. Second chance romances are a thing with this reader.
I look,forward to Margaret, AKA the “grumpy goat” (love than moniker), book to sort out just what is going on with her.
Thanks to Forever Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the advance copies.
Luke has had to rearrange his life and become the responsible parent.
I liked this second Monroe sisters book. I actually liked Emma better than Gabby, although she dithered until the very end.
I loved reading about the bidding romance between Harry and Eleanor. Second chance romances are a thing with this reader.
I look,forward to Margaret, AKA the “grumpy goat” (love than moniker), book to sort out just what is going on with her.
Thanks to Forever Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the advance copies.
January 5, 2023
This was a good book. Emma was a free spirit whose sisters did not always agree with her choices. She marries Luke Carter in the spur of the moment. She was very sorry once she realizes it was a real marriage ceremony. He doesn't want a divorce and takes a job in her town. She says she leaving town in a month to help kids in another country. It was interesting to see the interaction between Emma and her sisters. I loved how she bonded with Scout (Luke's daughter) It was obvious Luke didn't know how to be a full time parent and he was frustrated. Emma helped him learn. This is well worth the read.
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
January 16, 2023
Emma is a woman struggling with finding her path in life. She leaps without looking and that is how she ends up married to Luke. I enjoyed their story. Luke is also struggling to find his path in life as the primary caregiver to his daughter. The scenes with his daughter are funny and heartwarming. The overall story is sweet and I enjoyed the story. The sisters relationships is difficult and felt it was authentic. This is the second story in the series and it can be read on it's own. I was happy with how Emma's character grew through out the story. I received an advance copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2023
I really enjoyed this story of the Monroe sisters Gabi,Margaret and Emma. Emma was the free spirit. She arrived at a retreat and found out it was married couples only. Luke was there also and they ended up getting married. Emma decided to have the marriage annulled . She went back to Harbor Cove and who was there but Luke along with his daughter Scout, who were staying with his Uncle Ray, while he was working on a housing development.
Emma was working at the hotel working events and events for children. See how he and Emma ran into each other and did they get their marriage annulled. A VERY GOOD READ.
Emma was working at the hotel working events and events for children. See how he and Emma ran into each other and did they get their marriage annulled. A VERY GOOD READ.
March 13, 2023
"The Forever Family" by Shirley Jump is a great read! At first, I was skeptical about Emma and Luke getting married on the spur of the moment. But anyone who's ever wanted something so much that they overlooked the fine print will fall in love with this couple. They're really relatable!.
At times it's funny like a romcom, but I needed a tissue in a couple of places. The Monroe sisters are close, but they're judgy of Emma, which keeps it interesting. It's a great story for a book club and has a discussion guide. (I received an advance copy of the book and this is my honest review.)
At times it's funny like a romcom, but I needed a tissue in a couple of places. The Monroe sisters are close, but they're judgy of Emma, which keeps it interesting. It's a great story for a book club and has a discussion guide. (I received an advance copy of the book and this is my honest review.)
April 15, 2023
If you like a small town romance book, you will enjoy this book.
If you like a fake wedding trope, you will enjoy this book.
If you like banter mixed with real feelings of love, you will enjoy this book.
If you like family drama and frustration, but deep down a feeling of loyalty, you will enjoy this book!
This cute book is an enjoyable and light read, perfect for a nice spring day!
Thanks so much to Read Forever for the gifted copy!
If you like a fake wedding trope, you will enjoy this book.
If you like banter mixed with real feelings of love, you will enjoy this book.
If you like family drama and frustration, but deep down a feeling of loyalty, you will enjoy this book!
This cute book is an enjoyable and light read, perfect for a nice spring day!
Thanks so much to Read Forever for the gifted copy!
June 19, 2023
Jump’s second Monroe Girls novel focuses on Emma. It is a lovely finding your place novel that will put a smile on your face. I did get frustrated with Emma as she always seemed to think there was something better “out there” as opposed to seeing what is right in front of her, but it did give her a strong character arc.
January 11, 2023
this feel good romance has it all- small town, a quick marriage of convenience, single dad, a witty and generous grandma, two bossy big sisters and follows the wild child baby sister. thank you @readforeverpub for the gifted copy!
February 26, 2024
I had heard nothing about this book. As I was reading, I was liking the characters more and more. From their story arcs and the supporting characters as well. Love the writing style, pacing and cover too. Pretty good read.
January 14, 2023
A cute story about two fiercely independent people learning what it means to trust in themselves AND a little bit in each other too. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy.
January 18, 2023
I really loved this book this is the first book that I read from Shirley I can't wait to read more by her.
February 12, 2023
A story most of us can relate too.
Loss of a parent, struggling to fit in, unsure of a career, and love???
Loss of a parent, struggling to fit in, unsure of a career, and love???
February 28, 2023
Adorable feel good read about the power of family and following your heart…easy read.
March 5, 2023
I tried reading this twice and could not get through it. DNF.
***********************I received an ARC for my honest opinion from NetGalley*************
***********************I received an ARC for my honest opinion from NetGalley*************
June 9, 2023
A hallmark book. Very predictable story line but still fun to read. Took me a while to get through because I wasn’t that motivated to read because of the predictability
January 25, 2023
All through her life, Emma has always been the little sister who is constantly making mistakes. She might have made the biggest of her life when she wakes up one morning at a yoga retreat in Vegas and realizes she married handsome and single dad, Luke Carter. Emma is determined to have the married annulled, but Luke finds himself living in Harbor Cove and is now determined to make it work with his wife. Now she has to decide what is for the best and what does her new life look like, with or without Luke.
I adored the second book in this Harbor Cove series. This book focused on Emma, but the entire family is so important throughout the entire book. This one had the perfect amount of romance and family drama. I can't wait for the next one in the series.
Thank you Net Galley, @readforeverpub and Shirley Jump for the advanced copy for my honest review.
On the Cat Scale:
😺😺😺😺
I adored the second book in this Harbor Cove series. This book focused on Emma, but the entire family is so important throughout the entire book. This one had the perfect amount of romance and family drama. I can't wait for the next one in the series.
Thank you Net Galley, @readforeverpub and Shirley Jump for the advanced copy for my honest review.
On the Cat Scale:
😺😺😺😺
February 20, 2023
The Forever Family by Shirley Jump is a sweet story about sisters, falling in love and realizing that you don't need to travel the world to have great adventures.
This is book two in the Harbor Cove series but can be read as a standalone. This book is about the youngest of the three Monroe sisters and is a sweet romance with a side of finding yourself. It was a quick read and I'm looking forward to reading the third book.
Thanks to @readforeverpub for my copy of The Forever Family.
This is book two in the Harbor Cove series but can be read as a standalone. This book is about the youngest of the three Monroe sisters and is a sweet romance with a side of finding yourself. It was a quick read and I'm looking forward to reading the third book.
Thanks to @readforeverpub for my copy of The Forever Family.
March 21, 2023
This is honestly a Little Women retelling of the Monroe (March) Sisters that takes place in modern day cozy town “Harbor Cove”. Complete with romantic sister Gabby (Amy) typical oldest sister Margaret (Meg) and spontaneous creative Emma (Jo) the sisters are back and loving their best lives!
The book starts with a sleepy Emma awake in a hotel bed after marrying someone in VEGAS! Haha crazy but that’s Emma. The story follows her as she makes a lot of big descisioms in her life and we so who becomes a part of those choices. The book covers topics on grief, love, family and quarter-life crises’ and is quite relatable.
Even tho it’s a “series” I read this as a stand-alone and had no issues and really enjoyed this sweet read. Thank you to the team at @readforeverpub and @HatchetteUS for sending me this book in exchange for a review. 💕
#ReadForever
The book starts with a sleepy Emma awake in a hotel bed after marrying someone in VEGAS! Haha crazy but that’s Emma. The story follows her as she makes a lot of big descisioms in her life and we so who becomes a part of those choices. The book covers topics on grief, love, family and quarter-life crises’ and is quite relatable.
Even tho it’s a “series” I read this as a stand-alone and had no issues and really enjoyed this sweet read. Thank you to the team at @readforeverpub and @HatchetteUS for sending me this book in exchange for a review. 💕
#ReadForever
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