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Shores of Dora #1
A Lakeside Reunion
This summer, escape to the Shores--a Southern lake town full of elegance and glamour in a story about family traditions, friendship, and a love that can’t be denied--for readers of Sunny Hostin’s Summer on Sag Harbor
Chareese “Reese” Devlin spent every summer of her childhood in the lake town of Mount Dora, Florida, where her days were filled with fun in the sun. Reese never realized that the idyllic haven hid a deep divide between the town’s haves and have-nots. Not until the summer she turned seventeen and fell for Duncan McNeal, a boy who lacked the pedigree so valued by her parents and their equally well-connected friends.
After her family squashed the budding romance, Reese refused to return to the place she lost her heart. Now, ten years later, she’s back to attend her sister’s debutante ball and must come to terms with all she’s missed. But the biggest surprise of all is that Duncan is now a successful real estate developer in Mount Dora—and time hasn’t weakened the connection between them.
Behind the multimillion-dollar homes of the Shores lay old grudges and secrets capable of collapsing any family legacy. As the summer progresses, Reese must fix the sins of the past by facing the lines between truth and deception, tradition and breaking free, and family expectations and self-discovery.
Chareese “Reese” Devlin spent every summer of her childhood in the lake town of Mount Dora, Florida, where her days were filled with fun in the sun. Reese never realized that the idyllic haven hid a deep divide between the town’s haves and have-nots. Not until the summer she turned seventeen and fell for Duncan McNeal, a boy who lacked the pedigree so valued by her parents and their equally well-connected friends.
After her family squashed the budding romance, Reese refused to return to the place she lost her heart. Now, ten years later, she’s back to attend her sister’s debutante ball and must come to terms with all she’s missed. But the biggest surprise of all is that Duncan is now a successful real estate developer in Mount Dora—and time hasn’t weakened the connection between them.
Behind the multimillion-dollar homes of the Shores lay old grudges and secrets capable of collapsing any family legacy. As the summer progresses, Reese must fix the sins of the past by facing the lines between truth and deception, tradition and breaking free, and family expectations and self-discovery.
320 pages, Paperback
Published April 4, 2023
24 people are currently reading
3232 people want to read
About the author
C. Chilove
5 books73 followersC. Chilove is a southern girl residing in the beautiful Sunshine State. When she's not writing, she's cheering on her little ballerina, being protected by her daring ninja, cooking yummy dishes for her hubby, or exploring flea markets and antique stores for hidden treasures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 20, 2022
Review coming soon.
April 3, 2023
TITLE: A LAKESIDE REUNION
AUTHOR: C Chilove
PUB DATE: 04.04.2023 Now Available
Oooh so much drama at the Shores and I am here for every single one of it! A Lakeside Reunion is a romance set in Mount Dora, Florida, when Reese returns home at 27 yo for her sister’s debutante ball. Coming home after ten years, she thought nothing can be the same, and she was right. The boy she left back then, a certain Duncan McNeal is certainly a different person - now armed with an Ivy League education and a successful career, he is no longer from the wrong side of town.
There are definitely a lot of harbored resentments, disappointments, second chance at love, and definitely many chance for forgiving and forgiveness.
I enjoyed this emotional read that is steamy, great chemistry, and a wonderful book to take with you to the beach or the lake.
AUTHOR: C Chilove
PUB DATE: 04.04.2023 Now Available
Oooh so much drama at the Shores and I am here for every single one of it! A Lakeside Reunion is a romance set in Mount Dora, Florida, when Reese returns home at 27 yo for her sister’s debutante ball. Coming home after ten years, she thought nothing can be the same, and she was right. The boy she left back then, a certain Duncan McNeal is certainly a different person - now armed with an Ivy League education and a successful career, he is no longer from the wrong side of town.
There are definitely a lot of harbored resentments, disappointments, second chance at love, and definitely many chance for forgiving and forgiveness.
I enjoyed this emotional read that is steamy, great chemistry, and a wonderful book to take with you to the beach or the lake.
April 7, 2023
A Lakeside Reunion is about a woman returning to her families property ten years later to help with the debutante. I pictured Mount Dora, Florida to as the black version of the Hamptons. The return brings up years of family secrets, old memories, and she reunites her with an old flame. There’s something about the ‘elite’s’ having drama that intrigues me. The story moves pretty fast and kept my attention. I felt there was a lot of unfinished business between the FMC, Chareese, and her former love interest, Duncan and they didn’t have the best communication skills. Duncan bought the families bed and breakfast and has plans to turn it into a youth center. I think Duncan was being petty but I digress. I really liked the main characters, their chemistry couldn’t be missed. They were opposites growing up because Chareese was from an elite family and Duncan was lower class and didn’t meet her families standards. Overall, this was a well written book; the story was easy to follow and the attention to details was well fleshed. There is mention of classism and homophobia.
I received and arc from netgalley and the publisher, all thoughts are my own.
I received and arc from netgalley and the publisher, all thoughts are my own.
May 9, 2023
Chareese "Reese" Devlin left Mount Dora, Florida years ago, but finds herself back home for her sister's debutante ball. Mount Dora is a well-to-do Florida lakeside community filled with only the most successful Black families and a Southern town with a lot of traditions as well as families that have known each other for years. Reese runs into her ex-boyfriend, Duncan McNeal, who is now a successful developer. Her parents didn't approve of their relationship in high school, but now they want her talk to him since he has bought their family's inn, Hill House Bed and Breakfast. The Devlins want to restore it, but Duncan wants to turn it into a youth center as that is a big need in Mount Dora. Reese also finds herself mentoring not only her younger sister, but also Duncan's, during the debutante season. Through all this, she not only still has feelings for Duncan, she also finds out some major family secrets between the McNeals and Devlins. Things aren't as easy as they appear for Reese this time around in Mount Dora. C. Chilove's A Lakeside Reunion is a beach read filled with family drama, romance, and chock full of Southern charm.
Read the rest of my review here:
http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
Read the rest of my review here:
http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
April 2, 2024
My heart is exploding over how much I loved this one. Main character is 27 and trying to see if her childhood love is still in love with her after being away for ten years 🥹💓 I cannot. It’s a little cheesy in some areas and things have a happily ever after but I adored it!! And two families finally get over their issues with each other.
Def recommend if you like Black bougie stories, Jack & Jill references and a teensy bit of history.
Def recommend if you like Black bougie stories, Jack & Jill references and a teensy bit of history.
March 18, 2023
(3.5 Stars) This book explores the class system and racism in a small enclave Southern lake town of Mount Dora, Florida. Chareese (Reese) Devlin is 27 and returns to her summer home for a month as her 17 year old sisters prepares for her debutante ball. She hasn’t been here for ten years going to college and then going on to work in the fashion world. Her family is wealthy and considered town royalty. The ball has generational history to the town and helps keep the haves from the have nots. I probably wouldn’t read an contemporary book with the primary focus on debutante preparation except the story is entirely about black characters. Along with it comes some history of POC in this part of the south.
Reese was in love with Duncan McNeal but her parents forced them apart after her debutante ball ten years ago. He was from the wrong side of town but managed to get an Ivy league education. He has returned making millions and has done much to improve the town. He latest enterprise is buying Reese’s grandmothers historic Inn. He plans to turn it into a youth center, but Reese will do all she can to change the his mind for the place she loves. She also is asked to mentor his sister for the first person in his family to ever been included in the ball.
This is a drama filled second chance romance. It is complete with steamy times in the sheets, miscommunications, and old family secrets. The whole story takes place in just a few weeks but works because they had such a strong connection in their youth. The ending gets a little too twisty with everyone making peace that feels out of character. I think I’d have rather Reese defy her parents to be with her chosen love. I like Duncan and Reese but supporting characters are shallow and sometimes stereotypical.
The story is is dramatic complete with family angst, a spoiled sister and surprising ancestor story. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Reese was in love with Duncan McNeal but her parents forced them apart after her debutante ball ten years ago. He was from the wrong side of town but managed to get an Ivy league education. He has returned making millions and has done much to improve the town. He latest enterprise is buying Reese’s grandmothers historic Inn. He plans to turn it into a youth center, but Reese will do all she can to change the his mind for the place she loves. She also is asked to mentor his sister for the first person in his family to ever been included in the ball.
This is a drama filled second chance romance. It is complete with steamy times in the sheets, miscommunications, and old family secrets. The whole story takes place in just a few weeks but works because they had such a strong connection in their youth. The ending gets a little too twisty with everyone making peace that feels out of character. I think I’d have rather Reese defy her parents to be with her chosen love. I like Duncan and Reese but supporting characters are shallow and sometimes stereotypical.
The story is is dramatic complete with family angst, a spoiled sister and surprising ancestor story. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2023
Overall, I really liked this book! I felt like i was tucked into a summer beach experience the entire time i was reading this. To describe the feeling would be a cozy sunny summer day, with perfect warm weather and your fave person🥰
To start, i LOVE second chance romances!! This one definitely didn’t disappoint. This book is rare in which the actual STORY was VERY good. Idk about you guys but sometimes in romance books… the romance is so good we forget about whether or not the actual storyline was good. Not so with this book! I could totally see it being a TV show that everyone would be obsessed with. The family dynamics, the drama between basically everyone, the rich southern lifestyle/aesthetics, the SUPER interesting plot twist, and the star crossed loving relationship between Duncan and Reese😍 10/10!
I especially appreciated the black history that was woven into this story. This is a Black romance and (FOR ONCE) we are dealing with 2 successful black families and how refreshing was it to read about these families and how they arrived in this town and worked to make sure Black people are seen in a better light! A pet peeve of mine is when black characters are written and there is no mention of racism or the plights of Black Americans and the author seamlessly wrote this theme into the book!!
The only reason why I gave it 4 stars is because this is an ALMOST fade to black romance 😭 not completely (you get a little tease) but as a corrupted smut reader I definitely prefer full scenes… but if that’s your sort of thing you will LOVE this book!!
To start, i LOVE second chance romances!! This one definitely didn’t disappoint. This book is rare in which the actual STORY was VERY good. Idk about you guys but sometimes in romance books… the romance is so good we forget about whether or not the actual storyline was good. Not so with this book! I could totally see it being a TV show that everyone would be obsessed with. The family dynamics, the drama between basically everyone, the rich southern lifestyle/aesthetics, the SUPER interesting plot twist, and the star crossed loving relationship between Duncan and Reese😍 10/10!
I especially appreciated the black history that was woven into this story. This is a Black romance and (FOR ONCE) we are dealing with 2 successful black families and how refreshing was it to read about these families and how they arrived in this town and worked to make sure Black people are seen in a better light! A pet peeve of mine is when black characters are written and there is no mention of racism or the plights of Black Americans and the author seamlessly wrote this theme into the book!!
The only reason why I gave it 4 stars is because this is an ALMOST fade to black romance 😭 not completely (you get a little tease) but as a corrupted smut reader I definitely prefer full scenes… but if that’s your sort of thing you will LOVE this book!!
April 20, 2023
A Lakeside Reunion by C. Chilove is a good beach or poolside summer read. The drama unfolds in the lake town of Mt. Dora, FL which is what another reviewer aptly named as a black version of the Hamptons.
Reese returns to her family's summer home to assist and attend her younger sister's debutante ball. It's the first time Reese has visited in 10 years; she has been desperately trying to forget how her parents tore her away from her long time friend turned love Duncan. Unfortunately - in Reese's parent's mind - Duncan is a "townie" - and a
"have-not" and Reese is just too good for him.
This second chance/star-crossed lovers love story is more than just that. It is filled with family history, long hidden secrets, old friendships and plenty of family and local drama. It is my understanding that this is first in a new series and I am definitely interested in seeing who will be the focus of the next book!
Thank you to NegGalley, C. Chilove, and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for a copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review. A Lakeside Reunion was published on 4/3/2023 and is currently available.
Reese returns to her family's summer home to assist and attend her younger sister's debutante ball. It's the first time Reese has visited in 10 years; she has been desperately trying to forget how her parents tore her away from her long time friend turned love Duncan. Unfortunately - in Reese's parent's mind - Duncan is a "townie" - and a
"have-not" and Reese is just too good for him.
This second chance/star-crossed lovers love story is more than just that. It is filled with family history, long hidden secrets, old friendships and plenty of family and local drama. It is my understanding that this is first in a new series and I am definitely interested in seeing who will be the focus of the next book!
Thank you to NegGalley, C. Chilove, and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for a copy of this e-book in exchange for an honest review. A Lakeside Reunion was published on 4/3/2023 and is currently available.
June 6, 2023
Did I love this book? Why yes, yes I did! The black elite, debutante balls, the well to do families, and true love!
Read this now not later! I’m so glad that Chareese finally stood up for herself and chose to love who she wanted! Duncan, poor Duncan! To go so long long without the truth or your true love!
But true love conquerors all! I would love a second book!
Read this now not later! I’m so glad that Chareese finally stood up for herself and chose to love who she wanted! Duncan, poor Duncan! To go so long long without the truth or your true love!
But true love conquerors all! I would love a second book!
April 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this second chance romance of a privileged woman being in love with a man from the wrong part of town. Her parents were snobby and her sister. Oy. Lots of miscommunication happens. A good steamy romance.
November 13, 2022
***I received a digital copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to love this book but it felt a bit flat. The main characters, Chareese (Reese) and Duncan, were both very likable. The dialogue was fantastic. However, the characters themselves were a bit 2-dimensional.
I really liked the storyline. To summarize quickly, Reese returns to her family’s summer home to assist with her younger sister’s debutante ball. She has not been home in many years due to a traumatic event that occurred with her family and Duncan after her own debutante ball. She gets roped into mentoring Duncan’s younger sister, which causes drama between sisters, but it also brings her and Duncan closer again. Along the way, secrets are revealed about Reese’s family’s B and B. The author does a great job writing about social issues.
I’ll be looking forward to reading the next in the series!
I wanted to love this book but it felt a bit flat. The main characters, Chareese (Reese) and Duncan, were both very likable. The dialogue was fantastic. However, the characters themselves were a bit 2-dimensional.
I really liked the storyline. To summarize quickly, Reese returns to her family’s summer home to assist with her younger sister’s debutante ball. She has not been home in many years due to a traumatic event that occurred with her family and Duncan after her own debutante ball. She gets roped into mentoring Duncan’s younger sister, which causes drama between sisters, but it also brings her and Duncan closer again. Along the way, secrets are revealed about Reese’s family’s B and B. The author does a great job writing about social issues.
I’ll be looking forward to reading the next in the series!
November 28, 2022
I have mixed feelings about this book due to its paradoxical nature. First, a compelling look at class systems and homophobia within our society coupled with steamy, often explicit, romantic encounters. Second, an annoying amount of repetition and uneven pacing in the storyline (if I read the word “elite” one more time…grr) contrasted with an ending that felt rushed and unrealistic in terms of a shift in decades-long hostilities.
There are plenty of characters to love and embrace as well as those who are annoyingly stubborn, narrow-minded and/or cruel in their behavior toward others. It makes for an intriguing mix and plenty of drama. For me, the book tried too hard to weave multiple issues into a cohesive novel. It kept me engaged, but I frequently wanted to give up and label it a DNF due to the prolonged conflicts due to miscommunication and unresolved painful feelings. The novel has some redeeming elements, but overall, I cannot give it a strong recommendation.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
There are plenty of characters to love and embrace as well as those who are annoyingly stubborn, narrow-minded and/or cruel in their behavior toward others. It makes for an intriguing mix and plenty of drama. For me, the book tried too hard to weave multiple issues into a cohesive novel. It kept me engaged, but I frequently wanted to give up and label it a DNF due to the prolonged conflicts due to miscommunication and unresolved painful feelings. The novel has some redeeming elements, but overall, I cannot give it a strong recommendation.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
March 17, 2023
ARC Review || ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pub Date: April 4
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: second chance, friends to lovers, double pov
This book reminded me so much of the movie Jumping the Broom and made me wish that I was by the lake or on the beach somewhere (instead our Spring weather has been replaced with 30 degree mornings😭).
What I loved:
💖 DUNCAN🥹. I liked his determination to succeed, his drive, and his commitment to investing in his community. I absolutely LOVED how he wore his heart on his sleeve.
💖 The communication. I loved how upfront and open both Reese and Duncan were. No miscommunication trope over here👏🏽.
💖 The overall vibes. This book had me wondering how I could organize a debutante ball in my community.
What I didn’t love:
💔 The third act breakup. I honestly kind of saw it coming because their reconciliation was almost too perfect, and I knew there had to be some type of drama. But a third act breakup is almost always my least favorite drama.
This was such a fun, cute read that also dealt with some important issues. It’s definitely the perfect read to pick up for Spring and Summer vacations!
Pub Date: April 4
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: second chance, friends to lovers, double pov
This book reminded me so much of the movie Jumping the Broom and made me wish that I was by the lake or on the beach somewhere (instead our Spring weather has been replaced with 30 degree mornings😭).
What I loved:
💖 DUNCAN🥹. I liked his determination to succeed, his drive, and his commitment to investing in his community. I absolutely LOVED how he wore his heart on his sleeve.
💖 The communication. I loved how upfront and open both Reese and Duncan were. No miscommunication trope over here👏🏽.
💖 The overall vibes. This book had me wondering how I could organize a debutante ball in my community.
What I didn’t love:
💔 The third act breakup. I honestly kind of saw it coming because their reconciliation was almost too perfect, and I knew there had to be some type of drama. But a third act breakup is almost always my least favorite drama.
This was such a fun, cute read that also dealt with some important issues. It’s definitely the perfect read to pick up for Spring and Summer vacations!
April 5, 2023
Wow! Author C. Chilove sure knows how to bring the romance and steam all with a bit of history and present day relevance thrown in!
I enjoyed the author’s writing style, articulate, descriptive and good flow.
This story of second chance romance, boy makes good in life, forgiveness, family acceptance, interesting twists,etc, is all you need on a cozy day curled up in a reading chair or on blanket by the beach!
Prepare to immerse yourself in this heartwarming, feel good, romance!
I will absolutely look for more written by this author.
Thankyou to author C. Chilove, Forever of Grand Central Publishing, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book ahead of release date!
Charlene @lastnownext
🌸📚🤗
I enjoyed the author’s writing style, articulate, descriptive and good flow.
This story of second chance romance, boy makes good in life, forgiveness, family acceptance, interesting twists,etc, is all you need on a cozy day curled up in a reading chair or on blanket by the beach!
Prepare to immerse yourself in this heartwarming, feel good, romance!
I will absolutely look for more written by this author.
Thankyou to author C. Chilove, Forever of Grand Central Publishing, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book ahead of release date!
Charlene @lastnownext
🌸📚🤗
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May 13, 2024Reese Devlin is heading back to where she grew up spending her summers in Mount Dora, Florida. She is not one to want to head back home, but it is her sister's big summer with her debutante debut. She knows she will see all of the people from her past, but she is especially anxious to see Duncan McNeal, the boy her parents never approved of.
This second chance romance had a little bit of everything. I loved the slow burn and chemistry between Reese and Duncan. It was truly a journey through resentment and forgiveness.
This second chance romance had a little bit of everything. I loved the slow burn and chemistry between Reese and Duncan. It was truly a journey through resentment and forgiveness.
March 13, 2025
THESE 1 & 2 STAR RATINGS ARE LIESSSSS!!! I finished this book in a couple of days. I couldn’t put it down. It was such a phenomenal read about family, societal structures, & following your heart. I truly enjoyed this story & can’t wait to discuss it.
August 7, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
A new author to me, I really enjoyed this story! It gave me The Notebook vibe, but with southern Black culture and I enjoyed the twist and the turns. It’s more of a close door romance which I didn’t mind because honestly the tension and yearning were so good I enjoyed myself.
A new author to me, I really enjoyed this story! It gave me The Notebook vibe, but with southern Black culture and I enjoyed the twist and the turns. It’s more of a close door romance which I didn’t mind because honestly the tension and yearning were so good I enjoyed myself.
September 3, 2023
The story was so much more than I expected and so satisfying and lovely.
April 4, 2023
This book appears to be the first in a series. I am glad because I would be happy to see this book’s characters again.
A Lakeside Reunion has so many elements that readers of women’s fiction will enjoy. There is an appealing Southern U.S. setting, a wide cast of engaging characters and enough romance and plot to satisfy.
Here is what Goodreads says about this one.
Chareese “Reese” Devlin spent every summer of her childhood in the lake town of Mount Dora, Florida, where her days were filled with fun in the sun. Reese never realized that the idyllic haven hid a deep divide between the town’s haves and have-nots. Not until the summer she turned seventeen and fell for Duncan McNeal, a boy who lacked the pedigree so valued by her parents and their equally well-connected friends. After her family squashed the budding romance, Reese refused to return to the place she lost her heart. Now, ten years later, she’s back to attend her sister’s debutante ball and must come to terms with all she’s missed. But the biggest surprise of all is that Duncan is now a successful real estate developer in Mount Dora—and time hasn’t weakened the connection between them. Behind the multimillion-dollar homes of the Shores lay old grudges and secrets capable of collapsing any family legacy. As the summer progresses, Reese must fix the sins of the past by facing the lines between truth and deception, tradition and breaking free, and family expectations and self-discovery.
This could easily be added to a summer reading list.
Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my own.
A Lakeside Reunion has so many elements that readers of women’s fiction will enjoy. There is an appealing Southern U.S. setting, a wide cast of engaging characters and enough romance and plot to satisfy.
Here is what Goodreads says about this one.
Chareese “Reese” Devlin spent every summer of her childhood in the lake town of Mount Dora, Florida, where her days were filled with fun in the sun. Reese never realized that the idyllic haven hid a deep divide between the town’s haves and have-nots. Not until the summer she turned seventeen and fell for Duncan McNeal, a boy who lacked the pedigree so valued by her parents and their equally well-connected friends. After her family squashed the budding romance, Reese refused to return to the place she lost her heart. Now, ten years later, she’s back to attend her sister’s debutante ball and must come to terms with all she’s missed. But the biggest surprise of all is that Duncan is now a successful real estate developer in Mount Dora—and time hasn’t weakened the connection between them. Behind the multimillion-dollar homes of the Shores lay old grudges and secrets capable of collapsing any family legacy. As the summer progresses, Reese must fix the sins of the past by facing the lines between truth and deception, tradition and breaking free, and family expectations and self-discovery.
This could easily be added to a summer reading list.
Many thanks to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my own.
March 28, 2023
**I want to say first that the reviews here are not indicative of the book. It appears that a lot of early reviews are from individuals that don't understand the premise and history that the story is portraying. This story is about black wealth and class; and the generational history and self-discovery that comes along with it. It's not something everyone can identify with hence ratings are inaccurate. **
This book definitely gave me vibes from the show Our Kind of People. Chareese Devlin comes back to Mount Dora for the first time in 10 years for her sister's debutante ball in which she faces the things that drove her away including an old flame, Duncan McNeal. At a crossroads in her own life, so goes through a time self-discovery involving her privilege as a wealthy black family in Mount Dora and its direct effect on her relationship with Duncan who was seen as not worthy of her because of his status. From the moment they reconnected, there was an intense attraction no matter how Duncan was mad at her from the past.
The story is so rich with their path to reconnection while also confronting and breaking some of the generational curses within their families that essentially tore them apart. The background of the families was really interesting and also had me clutching my pearls. And special shout out to Alexandria for being a piece of work for the majority of the book! Girl was working my nerves!
*Thank you to Forever Pub for this advance copy in exchange for this review.*
This book definitely gave me vibes from the show Our Kind of People. Chareese Devlin comes back to Mount Dora for the first time in 10 years for her sister's debutante ball in which she faces the things that drove her away including an old flame, Duncan McNeal. At a crossroads in her own life, so goes through a time self-discovery involving her privilege as a wealthy black family in Mount Dora and its direct effect on her relationship with Duncan who was seen as not worthy of her because of his status. From the moment they reconnected, there was an intense attraction no matter how Duncan was mad at her from the past.
The story is so rich with their path to reconnection while also confronting and breaking some of the generational curses within their families that essentially tore them apart. The background of the families was really interesting and also had me clutching my pearls. And special shout out to Alexandria for being a piece of work for the majority of the book! Girl was working my nerves!
*Thank you to Forever Pub for this advance copy in exchange for this review.*
June 4, 2023
A small town. A second chance romance. And a debutante ball.
Yes it’s exactly what you are thinking. A complete mess. Its such a good story. Charisse & Duncan came from different sides I’d the proverbial train tracks. They are friends as children and new loves as teenagers. But their families are against it because the have and the have nots could not possibly form a union. This affluent lakeside town is full of generations of black socialite families that are steeped in the traditions of wealth, exclusion, and power. Everything hinders on appearance. This is the world Charisse is living in until she is forced to make a choice about Duncan and she learns the hard lesson of appearance is more important that her feeling. So she flees and stays away for 10 years and she is only returning now because it’s her sisters season to debut.
Duncan has “made something of himself” he’s an educated, wealthy, business man. His sister is also making her debut this season and he crosses paths with Charisse for the first time in a decade. They both have warring emotions and add in the fact that he just purchased her family’s Inn so tension is high.
Will they be able reconcile? Can they forgive past hurt? Will thier families be able to see past generations of hurt.
Read this story If you are like me and you love a small town romance. This is the messy kind with secrets, betrayal, and angst. Will love be enough to overcome the shame, secrets, and ten years lost? Add this to you TBR to find out. I recommend this story.
Yes it’s exactly what you are thinking. A complete mess. Its such a good story. Charisse & Duncan came from different sides I’d the proverbial train tracks. They are friends as children and new loves as teenagers. But their families are against it because the have and the have nots could not possibly form a union. This affluent lakeside town is full of generations of black socialite families that are steeped in the traditions of wealth, exclusion, and power. Everything hinders on appearance. This is the world Charisse is living in until she is forced to make a choice about Duncan and she learns the hard lesson of appearance is more important that her feeling. So she flees and stays away for 10 years and she is only returning now because it’s her sisters season to debut.
Duncan has “made something of himself” he’s an educated, wealthy, business man. His sister is also making her debut this season and he crosses paths with Charisse for the first time in a decade. They both have warring emotions and add in the fact that he just purchased her family’s Inn so tension is high.
Will they be able reconcile? Can they forgive past hurt? Will thier families be able to see past generations of hurt.
Read this story If you are like me and you love a small town romance. This is the messy kind with secrets, betrayal, and angst. Will love be enough to overcome the shame, secrets, and ten years lost? Add this to you TBR to find out. I recommend this story.
April 8, 2023
“𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒘𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝒘𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒏’𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆…”
This book gave Romeo + Juliet all grown up, minus the self harm, and in this case they’re Black. This story follows Reese, who is returning home after ten years, and Duncan, the man she’s loved since her teen years as they attempt to reconnect. There appears to be a whole lot of hurt feelings, unanswered questions, and new discoveries that they must navigate in order to see if a second chance at love exists for them in adulthood.
I enjoyed this story from beginning to end as the author invited us into the world of the elite Black folks of the fictional Mount Dora aka The Hamptons or Martha Vineyard for Black Folks located in Florida. The lakeside town is rich (no pun intended) in history and Black excellence.There’s money, a caste system, debutante balls, intertwining family histories, and more that lend a hand to this healthy dose of mess. I think the author did an awesome job at keeping the story moving along at a steady pace, it’s definitely a book that can be devoured in one sitting you have the time. I really enjoyed the background stories of the families and the ways of the town as they played a key role in the main characters journey to love.
If you’re looking for a nice second chance at love romance with a wee bit of spice this one is for you.
This book gave Romeo + Juliet all grown up, minus the self harm, and in this case they’re Black. This story follows Reese, who is returning home after ten years, and Duncan, the man she’s loved since her teen years as they attempt to reconnect. There appears to be a whole lot of hurt feelings, unanswered questions, and new discoveries that they must navigate in order to see if a second chance at love exists for them in adulthood.
I enjoyed this story from beginning to end as the author invited us into the world of the elite Black folks of the fictional Mount Dora aka The Hamptons or Martha Vineyard for Black Folks located in Florida. The lakeside town is rich (no pun intended) in history and Black excellence.There’s money, a caste system, debutante balls, intertwining family histories, and more that lend a hand to this healthy dose of mess. I think the author did an awesome job at keeping the story moving along at a steady pace, it’s definitely a book that can be devoured in one sitting you have the time. I really enjoyed the background stories of the families and the ways of the town as they played a key role in the main characters journey to love.
If you’re looking for a nice second chance at love romance with a wee bit of spice this one is for you.
April 3, 2023
3.5 Stars. Reese returns to the summer resort town of Mount Dora, FL for her sister’s debutante ball. 10 years ago Reese’s own debutante ball ended in heartbreak when her family forced her away from Duncan who they saw as lower class. Reese is surprised to find that Duncan is now a wealthy real estate broker who has purchased her family’s historic inn and hopes to turn it into a youth center. The two are still deeply attracted to one another but there is a lot of familial and societal drama that still wants to keep them apart.
I’m not usually one for a book surrounding debutant balls and southern tradition but was intrigued by the fact that this book centers Black characters and a Black community. While i did really like Reese and Duncan and their romance, I did find the community dynamics to be the most interesting part of the story. I did find the book to have some pacing issues. The first quarter was a lot of telling rather than showing, but once I got to the middle half the story moved along well and was very interesting. I did think that the end wrapped up to cleanly for how tone of the rest of the book. Overall I enjoyed the book and would be happy to read another one set in this world.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not usually one for a book surrounding debutant balls and southern tradition but was intrigued by the fact that this book centers Black characters and a Black community. While i did really like Reese and Duncan and their romance, I did find the community dynamics to be the most interesting part of the story. I did find the book to have some pacing issues. The first quarter was a lot of telling rather than showing, but once I got to the middle half the story moved along well and was very interesting. I did think that the end wrapped up to cleanly for how tone of the rest of the book. Overall I enjoyed the book and would be happy to read another one set in this world.
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2023
Duncan and Reese haven't seen each other for over 10 years. They had a budding relationship, but that was quashed by her family who thought he was not good enough. Now Duncan owns Hill House, which used to belong to Reese's family.
This story brings up issues such as classism, homosexuality, and racism. The author does a great job of describing these issues within the story and how they have affected relationships with the characters. She also gives a great depiction of the classism within the Black race. There is a lot that Reese and Duncan have to work through. Being thrown together when Reese mentor's Duncan's younger sister for the debutante ball sort of forces the issue, but the mentorship also creates tension between Reese and her own sister. Aside from the tough issues throughout the book, Reese and Duncan get a second chance to talk about what happened 10 years ago and explore a relationship with each other. The characters have grown and changed over the years and the ability to delve into everything that happened.
It was interesting to read about Black wealth, the haves and have nots, and the deep-rooted traditions which are all not unlike other races.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
This story brings up issues such as classism, homosexuality, and racism. The author does a great job of describing these issues within the story and how they have affected relationships with the characters. She also gives a great depiction of the classism within the Black race. There is a lot that Reese and Duncan have to work through. Being thrown together when Reese mentor's Duncan's younger sister for the debutante ball sort of forces the issue, but the mentorship also creates tension between Reese and her own sister. Aside from the tough issues throughout the book, Reese and Duncan get a second chance to talk about what happened 10 years ago and explore a relationship with each other. The characters have grown and changed over the years and the ability to delve into everything that happened.
It was interesting to read about Black wealth, the haves and have nots, and the deep-rooted traditions which are all not unlike other races.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
March 31, 2023
Reese Devlin hasn't been back to The Shore for 10 years because 10 years ago, her parents ended her relationship with Duncan. The only reason why she is back is because her baby sister is partaking in the debutante ball where girls come out and are presented as high standing and very appealing young ladies. Guess who else will be presented at the debutante ball? Duncan's younger sister, Destiny.
Not only is the debutante ball a major situation for Reese and her family, but the Hill House is as well. The Hill House used to belong to the Devlin family until Reese's uncle got into a sticky situation where Duncan was able to take over the Hill House. Now with full ownership of the Hill House, Duncan wants to renovate it to become a young center. This does not sit well with the Devlin family and they encourage Reese to seduce Duncan into not changing anything about the Hill House.
What will happen when Reese and Duncan reunite? Will Duncan be able to forgive Reese for breaking his heart 10 years ago? Will Reese be able to save Hill House? More importantly, why did the Devlin family not want Reese to date Duncan? What's the true story behind their break-up 10 years ago?
Not only is the debutante ball a major situation for Reese and her family, but the Hill House is as well. The Hill House used to belong to the Devlin family until Reese's uncle got into a sticky situation where Duncan was able to take over the Hill House. Now with full ownership of the Hill House, Duncan wants to renovate it to become a young center. This does not sit well with the Devlin family and they encourage Reese to seduce Duncan into not changing anything about the Hill House.
What will happen when Reese and Duncan reunite? Will Duncan be able to forgive Reese for breaking his heart 10 years ago? Will Reese be able to save Hill House? More importantly, why did the Devlin family not want Reese to date Duncan? What's the true story behind their break-up 10 years ago?
April 3, 2023
A Lakeside Reunion is about Black Dynasties and class divisions in a Southern town-division between the haves and haves not.
I love how the author presented Southern culture and traditions. At the heart of the book are family legacy and secrets.
I love that this book celebrates small town romance and reading about people who look like me.
I enjoyed it and the Southern warmth it provided.
I like how the author highlighted how sometimes diversity is being used to make up numbers. But what I particularly liked was how she provided an answer to that- use that platform to bring change.
There are secrets which the author has presented snidely-pricking interest and making you turn the pages.
The intrigue and family drama I did not see coming. I loved how the characters were able to develop even the so-called villains all came full cycle (circle).
If you love small town romance, enjoy drama then you will love this.
I love how the author presented Southern culture and traditions. At the heart of the book are family legacy and secrets.
I love that this book celebrates small town romance and reading about people who look like me.
I enjoyed it and the Southern warmth it provided.
I like how the author highlighted how sometimes diversity is being used to make up numbers. But what I particularly liked was how she provided an answer to that- use that platform to bring change.
There are secrets which the author has presented snidely-pricking interest and making you turn the pages.
The intrigue and family drama I did not see coming. I loved how the characters were able to develop even the so-called villains all came full cycle (circle).
If you love small town romance, enjoy drama then you will love this.
April 7, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
C. Chilove is a new to me author, but when I saw the cover of this book, I went straight to the synopsis to see what it was about. I totally judge books by their covers and this cover is gorgeous!
Lake town of Mount Dora, Florida is the perfect setting for a story. In this book, we meet Reese and Duncan who were once in love but were victims of differing social classes which ultimately pulled them apart. There were parts of this second chance romance, which I really enjoyed. I loved the dynamic between Reese and Duncan, and while I didn't love the issues they faced concerning her family's actions towards Duncan, I love that love can conquer all it it's meant to be!
What I struggled with the most in this book was the writing. It felt unevenly paced and a bit repetitive at times. And unfortunately, it impacted my overall enjoyment of this story. Though I do think that these are issues that can be improved upon in the future!
This looks to be the first in a series and I would be willing to read another in the future, with the hope that the writing has improved!
C. Chilove is a new to me author, but when I saw the cover of this book, I went straight to the synopsis to see what it was about. I totally judge books by their covers and this cover is gorgeous!
Lake town of Mount Dora, Florida is the perfect setting for a story. In this book, we meet Reese and Duncan who were once in love but were victims of differing social classes which ultimately pulled them apart. There were parts of this second chance romance, which I really enjoyed. I loved the dynamic between Reese and Duncan, and while I didn't love the issues they faced concerning her family's actions towards Duncan, I love that love can conquer all it it's meant to be!
What I struggled with the most in this book was the writing. It felt unevenly paced and a bit repetitive at times. And unfortunately, it impacted my overall enjoyment of this story. Though I do think that these are issues that can be improved upon in the future!
This looks to be the first in a series and I would be willing to read another in the future, with the hope that the writing has improved!
April 7, 2023
The heroine returns to her hometown to attend her sister's debutante ball after ten years away. When she returns, she encounters the hero, who had become a successful real estate developer. The two butt heads when they have different ideas about a family legacy that brings surprising revelations about the heroine's family history, which may bring the hero and the heroine together or tear them apart.
This is my first C. Chilove book and the first book in the SHORES OF DORA series. The author has a nice writing style that enriched the story. This second-chance contemporary romance dealt with some heavy situations like racism and social classes. Yet the romance between the hero and the heroine made such situations palatable, though it would have been nice that there wasn't a third-act breakup in the story. Overall, it was an entertaining read.
** Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. All opinions and thoughts in the review are my own. **
This is my first C. Chilove book and the first book in the SHORES OF DORA series. The author has a nice writing style that enriched the story. This second-chance contemporary romance dealt with some heavy situations like racism and social classes. Yet the romance between the hero and the heroine made such situations palatable, though it would have been nice that there wasn't a third-act breakup in the story. Overall, it was an entertaining read.
** Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. All opinions and thoughts in the review are my own. **
May 27, 2023
A Lakeside Reunion by C. Chilove is a story of second chances, forgiveness and standing for what you believe in, no matter the cost. Chareese was a woman who needed to learn how to stand on her own and break out of the bonds that her family tried to on her. She needed to dig deep within to find the strength to go after what was truly important to her. Duncan was a man with a chip on his shoulder but he had a steel core filled with determination to prove to himself and others that he was worthy of recognition and admiration. This story showed how even the well to do look down on the less fortunate and how they are interested in maintaining their status. It took Duncan's persistence in making things fair to all for the town to see his worth. I enjoyed watching Chareese and Duncan's rekindled romance and how they had to work to change their perceptions of themselves, their family and the town. Looking forward to seeing how some of the secondary characters find love.
December 27, 2022
I was very happy to see that the setting was in Mt. Dora a place where I don't live very far from. I loved every minute of it and Mt. Dora is such a cute little town! I didn't want to leave it.
The author has done a good job in describing the scenery and made me feel like I was there.
Third person is ok but I really like the characters point of view better. I can relate to them better.
Reese and Duncan are a great couple.
I do love a good romance book with 2nd chances and secrets.
This book had everything that I loved about it.
The setting was my favorite thing. I also love secrets too. They are what made me keep turning the pages
5 stars for a good story! I recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The author has done a good job in describing the scenery and made me feel like I was there.
Third person is ok but I really like the characters point of view better. I can relate to them better.
Reese and Duncan are a great couple.
I do love a good romance book with 2nd chances and secrets.
This book had everything that I loved about it.
The setting was my favorite thing. I also love secrets too. They are what made me keep turning the pages
5 stars for a good story! I recommend!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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