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Blueberry Springs #0
Champagne and Lemon Drops
One woman. Two men. One meddling small town.
Raised by her older sister in the small town of Blueberry Springs, all Beth Wilkinson wants is to create a family so big she’ll never be alone. Things are going great until her accountant fiancé, Oz, experiences a family trauma, forcing him to rethink everything from his own career to their nuptial plans—leaving Beth alone.
As Beth works to rediscover her former bold and independent self in hopes of reattracting Oz, she catches the eye of the charming new city doctor, Nash. Not only does he see her as she’d like to be seen, but he knows exactly what he wants from life—and that includes Beth.
Torn between the two men, as well as two versions of herself, Beth discovers that love and dreams are much more complicated than they seem.
Raised by her older sister in the small town of Blueberry Springs, all Beth Wilkinson wants is to create a family so big she’ll never be alone. Things are going great until her accountant fiancé, Oz, experiences a family trauma, forcing him to rethink everything from his own career to their nuptial plans—leaving Beth alone.
As Beth works to rediscover her former bold and independent self in hopes of reattracting Oz, she catches the eye of the charming new city doctor, Nash. Not only does he see her as she’d like to be seen, but he knows exactly what he wants from life—and that includes Beth.
Torn between the two men, as well as two versions of herself, Beth discovers that love and dreams are much more complicated than they seem.
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First published March 7, 2013
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About the author
Jean Oram
86 books947 followersMy newsletter subscribers just got a FREE book. Are you getting fun stuff from me? If not, subscribe here for exclusive freebies, giveaways, and new release info: http://www.jeanoram.com/FreeBook
Jean Oram grew up in an old schoolhouse in a Canadian town, population 100 (cats and dogs not included). She is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling romance author of feel-good, heartwarming romances that make readers smile.
Jean lives in Canada with her husband, two kids, cat, dog, and the pesky neighbourhood rabbits that hop through her garden like it's an open salad bar. She can often be found outdoors or reading a book. (And of course at her laptop writing your next irresistible read!)
Subscribe to Jean's newsletter and get a taste of her small town comedies that will have you laughing while falling in love: www.JeanOram.com/signup
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
March 11, 2013
This story started with a bang and had me racing through the story to see who Beth ends up with. Mixing humor with relatable small town charm, we're introduce to a fun set of characters, each with their own problems to solve. But most importantly, we have Beth who wants nothing more than to marry her sweetheart and fiance, Oz, and start a family, only to have Oz hit the breaks when he looks around and realizes he's living the life his father wanted for him-- not the one he wants for himself. Only problem is he doesn't have a clue what that life should look like. Beth is happy to help him find his way, but one circumstance after another pulls them apart
Enter Nash, a handsome city slicker doc who's there for Beth when she needs someone to talk to. He seems like a safe bet since he's repeatedly stated that he could never fall for a country-bumpkin, and Beth knows she fits that description to a T. After all, she's waiting for Oz to find his way back to her arms and Nash is just a friend who's seen his share of heartache and gets what she's going through. Yet fate has other plans-- for all of them.
This was a fun light read, with laugh out loud moments, and then other parts that really tugged at your heart strings. Highly recommend. The perfect beach or bath tub read.
Enter Nash, a handsome city slicker doc who's there for Beth when she needs someone to talk to. He seems like a safe bet since he's repeatedly stated that he could never fall for a country-bumpkin, and Beth knows she fits that description to a T. After all, she's waiting for Oz to find his way back to her arms and Nash is just a friend who's seen his share of heartache and gets what she's going through. Yet fate has other plans-- for all of them.
This was a fun light read, with laugh out loud moments, and then other parts that really tugged at your heart strings. Highly recommend. The perfect beach or bath tub read.
August 4, 2013
This was an Enh... book. There were lots of emotions, some good characters, an ok story line, and some self-discovery. At first I was pulled in by the prologue, but the more I read the more I just wanted to finish to book and get to the ending. There was a lot of wishy-washy feelings and actions and the whole book was emotionally draining and had me wanting to smack everyone. I was exasperated and annoyed by the characters and didn't really connect or 'feel' them. It was an good book, but I wouldn't read it again. This ended up feeling like the norm for a 'freebie' and I hate to say it, it was actually written well just the content I didn't like, but I wouldn't want to spend money for this one. Good Luck
September 10, 2013
I really enjoyed this book it was a fun read one of those books that you can laugh a little at feel for the characters and smile when it’s over. The story revolves around Oz, Beth and Nash and Oz decides he needs to find himself but by doing that he pushes Beth away and into the arms of Nash. The emotions from each character was written great especially Beth as she had to deal with what she felt for both men. Oz did get on my nerves a bit I just wanted to yell at him to sort himself out it was him who wanted to have the break and find himself but it was Beth who found herself. What I did love about this book is the small town folk they all knew that Beth and Oz belonged together and did everything they could to make them see sense even if Beth couldn’t see that at first. I did like Nash he was there for Beth when she needed a friend but you could tell they weren’t right for each other he was a city boy. If you like your fun reads with a bit of romance and true love wins out then this is the book for you.
February 10, 2014
Woohooo Jean Oram has written a fantastic book.. I was hooked after a few pages..I loved it!! The characters were awesome and I felt as if I was there with them.. I could really relate to them... have to admit the story as it opened out kept me wanting more.... 2 hunky guys what more could this girl ask for in a book apart from a happy ending !!!... I Laughed out loud at many moments.. then others rocked my heart.. This wonderful author is now in my Favourite list.. I recommend this book 100%
January 11, 2014
Interesting premise but the writing lagged and I was hard pressed to find anything to like about any of the characters. I struggled through the second half just because the idea of not finishing a book grates me, but I was really tempted to chuck it into that small pile of books never to be revisited.
April 8, 2013
I started this book in the morning, and finished it later the same day. I loved it! I know Jean from a writing and publishing forum, so I had an idea of her writing ability. Still, I was a little wary because "chick lit" isn't my favorite genre. Nor is romance. I tend to find too many of them to be slightly vapid and fun for a quick read, but not terribly satisfying. Champagne and Lemon Drops was a welcome change from what I usually consider chick lit to be.
I was surprised to find myself getting choked up at the events in the first few chapters, even though I didn't know the characters all that well yet. Jean really brought the emotional drama to life in a genuine way. That totally hooked me. I had to keep reading to find out how the love triangle played out.
This was a fantastic romantic comedy with heart. It explored themes of family and home and identity. And love, of course. The characters were three-dimensional, not flat, and their emotions rang true. There's no manufactured melodrama just for the sake of drama. I can't wait for #2 in the series!
I was surprised to find myself getting choked up at the events in the first few chapters, even though I didn't know the characters all that well yet. Jean really brought the emotional drama to life in a genuine way. That totally hooked me. I had to keep reading to find out how the love triangle played out.
This was a fantastic romantic comedy with heart. It explored themes of family and home and identity. And love, of course. The characters were three-dimensional, not flat, and their emotions rang true. There's no manufactured melodrama just for the sake of drama. I can't wait for #2 in the series!
July 27, 2017
This book was just okay. A bit predictable and drawn out. The ending was sort of abrupt and I feel like I needed more groveling from the man she chose. There was an aspect of the story had I feel needed more of an explanation but was instead just kind of glossed over.
The writing was okay but the whole premise of the story just gave me whiplash.
The writing was okay but the whole premise of the story just gave me whiplash.
April 16, 2019
Champagne and Lemon Drops, who can resist a title like that? Not me! I've had this book for a long, long time though and I finally got to it and I'm so glad.
It was just a really cute story about about Beth who was raised by her older sister, and her dream/goal in life is to have a really large family so she won't have to ever be alone. The book starts off with a quick and lame excuse of a breakup, when Beth's fiance Oz calls off their wedding. She is understandably devastated, but decides to scheme ways to get him to be attracted to her again so she can get him back.
Things are going along well in her plans/her mind when she meets Nash, a very good looking and charming doctor. Thus begins a triangle. She falls for Nash but she loves Oz, so what's a girl to do? As one can imagine, this story had me in stitches at times because it's full of humor.
This book is a quick, fun read, that includes both humor a heart-strings being pulled. I loved it.
It was just a really cute story about about Beth who was raised by her older sister, and her dream/goal in life is to have a really large family so she won't have to ever be alone. The book starts off with a quick and lame excuse of a breakup, when Beth's fiance Oz calls off their wedding. She is understandably devastated, but decides to scheme ways to get him to be attracted to her again so she can get him back.
Things are going along well in her plans/her mind when she meets Nash, a very good looking and charming doctor. Thus begins a triangle. She falls for Nash but she loves Oz, so what's a girl to do? As one can imagine, this story had me in stitches at times because it's full of humor.
This book is a quick, fun read, that includes both humor a heart-strings being pulled. I loved it.
February 25, 2014
What do you do when you are torn between two loves? That is the situation that our heroine and self-proclaimed "country bumpkin", Beth, finds herself in. There's Oz, her fiance whom she has loved all her life, but who just told her that he needs time and space so that he can "find himself". And then there is Nash - the new doctor in town who offers Beth a new career, champagne and a trip to Paris. What's a girl to do? Well, if you are Beth, you waffle. You go back and forth in your emotions about which man is the right man for you. And you do this with the whole town that you grew up in watching...and commenting...and interfering.
This is a cute book, full of angst and choices and heartwrenching decisions about whether you choose the familiar, comforting path that you have always known (like lemon drops in a candy dish on the living room table) or if you reach for new adventures (like champagne toasts at the bottom of the Eiffel Tower). I would recommend it for anyone who is a romantic at heart or who has ever struggled with a decision of the heart.
This is a cute book, full of angst and choices and heartwrenching decisions about whether you choose the familiar, comforting path that you have always known (like lemon drops in a candy dish on the living room table) or if you reach for new adventures (like champagne toasts at the bottom of the Eiffel Tower). I would recommend it for anyone who is a romantic at heart or who has ever struggled with a decision of the heart.
May 13, 2015
Finding yourself can be more difficult and messy than most of people think.
Trying to discover what he really want for live, Oz ask a break in his relationship with Beth.
Utterly surprised Beth is post in check. Is her truly sure of who she is and what her dreams are?
The premise was interesting, but Beth was a to undecided girl, way to much. Her attraction for Nash mixed with her hurt feelings was a combination fated to go wrong. And Oz was to much a 'I need to figure this out all by my on' kind of guy.
I lost interest in who will stay with who in the middle of the book.
Trying to discover what he really want for live, Oz ask a break in his relationship with Beth.
Utterly surprised Beth is post in check. Is her truly sure of who she is and what her dreams are?
The premise was interesting, but Beth was a to undecided girl, way to much. Her attraction for Nash mixed with her hurt feelings was a combination fated to go wrong. And Oz was to much a 'I need to figure this out all by my on' kind of guy.
I lost interest in who will stay with who in the middle of the book.
April 23, 2015
After reading a heavy historical book this one seems very easy to read. And it was but I was not expecting the emotional roller coaster. Choice the better man seems very easy at the beginning: Nash was the perfect pospect and Oz (whose real name is Osward) was a lost cause...
But although I and maybe all women dream with a romantic travel to Paris, Oz is the man of Beth dreams, and slowly I changed my mind I understood that they had to be together.
I like the references to the Wizard of Oz and Dorothy's search of her lost home...
But although I and maybe all women dream with a romantic travel to Paris, Oz is the man of Beth dreams, and slowly I changed my mind I understood that they had to be together.
I like the references to the Wizard of Oz and Dorothy's search of her lost home...
March 9, 2013
I was lucky enough to read through this novel from the very first stages. I love this story! Jean is an awesome author and her characters jump right off the page for you! You'll be rooting for Beth in no time & agonizing with her over the 2 sexy men in her life! Enjoy!
May 2, 2013
The ending was very abrupt.
June 29, 2014
Au début, l'histoire est sympathique mais au bout de quelque chapitre on tourne en rond . Je me suis ennuyée;
March 9, 2018
Cover/Title: Now that I read the book, I understand the title. I wouldn't compare them quite like that but....
Characters: The characters were ok. I am not a fan of Beth. I prefer the heroine to be stronger, more decisive and with a take no crap kinda attitude. I am also not a fan of Oz. He is a real jerk in this book.
Plot: Beth is pushed away by her fiance and she has to learn to move on. However, every time she moves on, he does something stupid that makes life difficult for her.
Overall: It was an ok story and definitely worth the read. Was I a huge fan of some of the characters? No. It is a perfectly good book for that cold day when you want to snuggle up with a light read.
Characters: The characters were ok. I am not a fan of Beth. I prefer the heroine to be stronger, more decisive and with a take no crap kinda attitude. I am also not a fan of Oz. He is a real jerk in this book.
Plot: Beth is pushed away by her fiance and she has to learn to move on. However, every time she moves on, he does something stupid that makes life difficult for her.
Overall: It was an ok story and definitely worth the read. Was I a huge fan of some of the characters? No. It is a perfectly good book for that cold day when you want to snuggle up with a light read.
October 6, 2017
This book is OK but I just had trouble with why Beth was marrying Nash when she knew she was still in love with Oz. She jumped into the relationship with Nash as a rebound fling and really should have just let it go. She and Oz needed to talk more and sort out what he was going through. I still love the characters of Blueberry Springs.
December 7, 2017
Surprisingly insightful, never denying the complexities and ambivalences of adulthood. I found myself recognizing myself and my real-life relationship throughout the book and gaining through that reflective process. I couldn't put it down. Impressive!
August 30, 2018
3.5 stars
Read
January 12, 2018Didn't finish this one, talk of sex outside of marriage within the first 7% of book, didn't want to continue reading.
May 21, 2018
Giveaway winner
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway. I was really impressed with this book. The writing was funny and very well written. The plot was interesting and kept you guessing. I really enjoyed it and couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the next blueberry springs novel
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway. I was really impressed with this book. The writing was funny and very well written. The plot was interesting and kept you guessing. I really enjoyed it and couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the next blueberry springs novel
January 19, 2014
Nash - The new doctor in town: young, handsome and charismatic. Always managed to be there when Beth needed a shoulder to cry on.
Oz - Going through some sort of early mid-life crisis. After working a job he hated for years he suddenly one day decides he needs to find himself, but he can’t do it with his fiancé hanging around. He needs a break from work, relationships and life in general while he figures out who and what he is. Asking for a month - such a short time seems reasonable.
Beth - Noticed something not right with Oz for weeks, but he always claimed it was nothing. Shocked and hurt when Oz tells her he wants a break she runs to the only person not taking sides - Nash. He pushes her to follow paths in her career she never imagined taking as a way to occupy her time.
After spending so much time together romantic feelings grow between what the author calls the country bumpkin - Beth and the city boy - Nash. Beth spends a lot of time in the book bouncing between feelings for both men.
My thoughts -
Despite the relationship twists and indecisiveness of the main character this book was a very nice read. I found it difficult to put down, going back continuously because of my own morbid curiosity. What stupid mistake was going to be made next. Though the author liked to use a lot of clichés that I found myself rolling my eyes at the story was cute and sweet. I like the way the author made her decisions such a convoluted mess. She made her struggles more realistic in my opinion. Truly important life decisions are never easy and rarely cut and dry.
Character wise, I really had a hard time with Nash. I didn’t like him at all. He was portrayed as a great doctor a true prince charming in many ways, but his attitude towards the towns people in general was a real turn off. His constant need to force a city life style and rules on a small town just made him a snob.
The writing style and story line while a bit corny at times was great. I really enjoyed the read, finishing the book in less than a day. I will definitely buy more of her work in the future. Looking forward to reading Whiskey and Gumdrops next, since the author has already hinted at a side to her protagonist Mandy that most were blind to. There has to be some good qualities to her, Oz spent eight years in a relationship with her. The excerpt and the end of this books gives me high hopes for this story as well.
Oz - Going through some sort of early mid-life crisis. After working a job he hated for years he suddenly one day decides he needs to find himself, but he can’t do it with his fiancé hanging around. He needs a break from work, relationships and life in general while he figures out who and what he is. Asking for a month - such a short time seems reasonable.
Beth - Noticed something not right with Oz for weeks, but he always claimed it was nothing. Shocked and hurt when Oz tells her he wants a break she runs to the only person not taking sides - Nash. He pushes her to follow paths in her career she never imagined taking as a way to occupy her time.
After spending so much time together romantic feelings grow between what the author calls the country bumpkin - Beth and the city boy - Nash. Beth spends a lot of time in the book bouncing between feelings for both men.
My thoughts -
Despite the relationship twists and indecisiveness of the main character this book was a very nice read. I found it difficult to put down, going back continuously because of my own morbid curiosity. What stupid mistake was going to be made next. Though the author liked to use a lot of clichés that I found myself rolling my eyes at the story was cute and sweet. I like the way the author made her decisions such a convoluted mess. She made her struggles more realistic in my opinion. Truly important life decisions are never easy and rarely cut and dry.
Character wise, I really had a hard time with Nash. I didn’t like him at all. He was portrayed as a great doctor a true prince charming in many ways, but his attitude towards the towns people in general was a real turn off. His constant need to force a city life style and rules on a small town just made him a snob.
The writing style and story line while a bit corny at times was great. I really enjoyed the read, finishing the book in less than a day. I will definitely buy more of her work in the future. Looking forward to reading Whiskey and Gumdrops next, since the author has already hinted at a side to her protagonist Mandy that most were blind to. There has to be some good qualities to her, Oz spent eight years in a relationship with her. The excerpt and the end of this books gives me high hopes for this story as well.
February 15, 2014
Meet the citizens of Blueberry springs. A small town where nothing is kept secret for long. Beth a small town recreational therapist , Oz her small town fiancé , who needs a break to figure things out . Then there is Nash the hot big city doctor who is there for Beth in her hours of need when trying to figure out what Oz wants out of life. As they work their way through the ups and downs of small town life and the gossip that eventually gets spread around. Will they survive it and will Beth actually get married , You will have to read this book
I found this book and author at a book release party. I saw the cover and thought why not give it a try . It was free on amazon so what was I going to loose if I happen to not like it. Well I was wrong I loved it . The characters were funny and sweet. I mean how many women have had their boyfriends of significant others say , HEY I NEED A BREAK to get my head screwed on straight. Then us girls are like well what did I do wrong or can I help him with his journey of self discovery. Those are the feelings that Beth is having in spades. She doesn't know what to do. Should she help Oz or start living her life to the fullest. Nash helps her out with the living her life to the fullest but is he the right man for Beth. I thought so at first but then you start to have your doubts about Nash also. Beth wants the white picket fence and the two children but are either of those men even worthy of her love.
Jean has wove a special story about small town life and the characters that live there. We all have those people whose life it is to gossip and stick their noses into everything. The characters that Jean has written are flawed but also very lovable.
So if you want a great bath tub, curl up on the couch or even beach read . If you love romance and small town living. This is the book for you. Just a warning don't start this book before you go to sleep cause you will end up with a book hangover , cause once you start there will be no sleeping for you
May 3, 2015
Beth Wilkinson is the Recreational Therapist at the hospital in Blueberry Springs. She is soon to be married to Oz Reiter. She loves her job, her hometown, and Oz. She is happy and content with her life. Until Oz has a life crisis and doesn't know what he wants to do with his life. He tells Beth they need to take a break while he figures it out.
Nash Leham is a City Doctor doing a stint at the hospital where Beth works. He is interested in helping her expand the Recreational Therapy Program. He is also interested in Beth.
This is a very good story. It deals with personal growth, parental expectations, being true to yourself and not letting others dictate your life, and is a sweet romance all in one. It has a lot of humorous elements, too. The characters are all decent people with flaws. All likeable and frustrating at the same time. Sometimes they were down-right mule-headed!! Even the "bad girl" is not as bad as some think she is. At least that is my feeling about her. The story hooked me in the beginning and kept me interested. I don't typically read stories with love triangles but this story wasn't your typical triangle.
I loved the realistic portrayal of life in a small town. Gossip is the main form of entertainment and the facts are always embellished. If not just made up entirely. No one has privacy and news travels faster than the speed of light. Plus, everybody knows your entire family and how everyone is related. The best part is knowing you can always get a helping hand when the going gets rough.
My only problem with this book was how quickly Nash changed from laid-back to control freak. Don't get the wrong idea, he never turned mean. More like OCD.
This is not the first book I have read by Jean Oram and it certainly won't be my last. She has a truly enjoyable writing style and her books are well-written. I recommend you read Champagne and Lemon Drops as well as the rest of her books. You won't be disappointed.
4.5 Stars
June 19, 2013
Breaking up with someone who you already have your future planned out with is always hard. You question yourself 'What now?'. It's like you lose track of where you're heading.
In this case Beth had it all planned out, she was engaged to her dream guy Oz, she had her dream job, her loving family..or should I say she ALMOST had it all. Unfortunately things don't always go as we plan.
Everything that could go wrong just went wrong. At the beginning she was really patient, gave all the space Oz needed because she loved him. But how long can a person wait?
So she decided to go on with her life with the handsome "rebound" Doctor Nash. It was obvious Oz still loved her, everyone could see that. I just don't understand why she couldn't, all the signs were right in front of her. I also think she rushed into getting engaged with Nash. After all Beth still loved Oz, Nash deserved better than Beth fooling around with his feelings..and money!!
Regarding the ending, I was halfway in and already knew with who she would end up with. But the way it ended just killed me. What about Nash?! What happened to the poor guy? I felt sorry for him. It almost felt like there was lack of interest on giving a proper ending to it.
Overall it was an enjoyable story. I enjoyed the plot which is always good. I had my share of laughter and sorrow. ;)
In this case Beth had it all planned out, she was engaged to her dream guy Oz, she had her dream job, her loving family..or should I say she ALMOST had it all. Unfortunately things don't always go as we plan.
Everything that could go wrong just went wrong. At the beginning she was really patient, gave all the space Oz needed because she loved him. But how long can a person wait?
So she decided to go on with her life with the handsome "rebound" Doctor Nash. It was obvious Oz still loved her, everyone could see that. I just don't understand why she couldn't, all the signs were right in front of her. I also think she rushed into getting engaged with Nash. After all Beth still loved Oz, Nash deserved better than Beth fooling around with his feelings..and money!!
Regarding the ending, I was halfway in and already knew with who she would end up with. But the way it ended just killed me. What about Nash?! What happened to the poor guy? I felt sorry for him. It almost felt like there was lack of interest on giving a proper ending to it.
Overall it was an enjoyable story. I enjoyed the plot which is always good. I had my share of laughter and sorrow. ;)
November 7, 2013
I got about 60% through the book (just after Nash proposed to Beth) and had to let this one go. I skipped to the last chapter just to make sure that this book was as predictable as I thought it was going to be, and it was. Beth, the heroine of this story, was such a push over. Not only did her fiance ask for a "break" so he could figure out his life, he left her hanging for months on end. Sending mixed signals and stringing her on. And there was her sister and Oz's sister. They insisted she make Oz jealous or move on, but at the first sign of trouble, they expected Beth to pick Oz up. It was apparently too much to let Beth try to move on and pick up the pieces of her broken heart. It was obviously all her fault that Oz turned in to a drunk and got arrested. Nash and Beth were from two totally different worlds, but he was a good distraction and he had good intentions. He could have been good for Beth. Subconsciously I think Beth was happy to stick around that small town where it would be inevitable to hear the daily gossip day in and day out, and see her ex-fiance. While she convinced herself she was ready to move on, the only thing she could constantly think of was Oz. I mean, a light bulb went off in her head when Nash was proposing and she realized she still loved Oz. Well, DUH!!! If that wasn't obvious throughout the book.
December 30, 2014
Beth and Oz have it all when it comes to love, or so those of the small town of Blueberry Springs think. Soon after their engagement, Oz realizes that in order to have a future, he must understand who he is... and he isn't whom everyone thinks he is.
Beth is a simple, lovely girl who has the gumption she needs to forge a path to the life she wants. For years this life has included Oz. When he abruptly asks for time to find himself, Beth's life goes on hold. Her career as a care provider for the elderly, including her brash and outspoken Gran, brings her into the orbit of Nash, a doctor who is doing a short stint in her small town.
While Oz appears to spin further and further out of control, and beyond Beth's reach, she's left confused, and looking for the future she's wanted for so long. As her friendship with Nash grows, Beth begins to realize she must reinvent herself as well.
In the end, the lives of everyone in Blueberry Springs change as the convoluted lives of Beth, Oz, Nash, Katie, Cynthia and Mandy unfold. Ms. Oram does a splendid job in creating entertaining bumps along the paths of their lives, making us think we've figured out how the book will unfold, only to be bounced onto a new path, and find that love and life are not as straightforward as it ought to be.
Beth is a simple, lovely girl who has the gumption she needs to forge a path to the life she wants. For years this life has included Oz. When he abruptly asks for time to find himself, Beth's life goes on hold. Her career as a care provider for the elderly, including her brash and outspoken Gran, brings her into the orbit of Nash, a doctor who is doing a short stint in her small town.
While Oz appears to spin further and further out of control, and beyond Beth's reach, she's left confused, and looking for the future she's wanted for so long. As her friendship with Nash grows, Beth begins to realize she must reinvent herself as well.
In the end, the lives of everyone in Blueberry Springs change as the convoluted lives of Beth, Oz, Nash, Katie, Cynthia and Mandy unfold. Ms. Oram does a splendid job in creating entertaining bumps along the paths of their lives, making us think we've figured out how the book will unfold, only to be bounced onto a new path, and find that love and life are not as straightforward as it ought to be.
June 2, 2013
Well honestly, I must admit that I am not too sure if I liked this one. For several reasons, I can't explain them all here but here are the ones that make it hard to decide.
I really like the concept of the story. A girl that comes to grip with her desire for more and allows herself to see what is available to her that would still allow her to experience what she longed for.
However, I can't say her method was that of a well thought out heroine. She made some mistakes and should have led to regret or at least remorse. Then again don't we all.
Even though I could guess the ending by the middle I kept reading to see if I was right. I guess being right spoiled it for me. What really irked me is that this character didn't seem to understand the meaning of closure or communication.
I personally would have like a paragraph about all endings many just hers. Throughout the book you start to cheer for one or the other...so it would have been nice to see where all those involved ended.
I really like the concept of the story. A girl that comes to grip with her desire for more and allows herself to see what is available to her that would still allow her to experience what she longed for.
However, I can't say her method was that of a well thought out heroine. She made some mistakes and should have led to regret or at least remorse. Then again don't we all.
Even though I could guess the ending by the middle I kept reading to see if I was right. I guess being right spoiled it for me. What really irked me is that this character didn't seem to understand the meaning of closure or communication.
I personally would have like a paragraph about all endings many just hers. Throughout the book you start to cheer for one or the other...so it would have been nice to see where all those involved ended.
November 20, 2016
Gosh where to start with this?
It pulls you in very quickly and has some amazing writing but there is a big but with this story.
I hated Oz with his emotional bullying and how cold he treated Beth. Nash is a controlling person that made me want to scream at Beth to run as far away as possible and last was Beth. Her acceptance of the way Oz treated her was downright pathetic. Sorry she was still madly in love or questioning if he still loved her after being cruel then going along with everything Nash wanted.
So why a four? I guess the writing pushed it up. There were parts that kept me gripped and considering I hated the love triangle this was a miracle.
Another reason this was a completed story and no cliffhanger at the end.
Champagne & Lemon Drops – Jean Oram – Reviews Are Us
https://amazonreviewsareus.wordpress....
It pulls you in very quickly and has some amazing writing but there is a big but with this story.
I hated Oz with his emotional bullying and how cold he treated Beth. Nash is a controlling person that made me want to scream at Beth to run as far away as possible and last was Beth. Her acceptance of the way Oz treated her was downright pathetic. Sorry she was still madly in love or questioning if he still loved her after being cruel then going along with everything Nash wanted.
So why a four? I guess the writing pushed it up. There were parts that kept me gripped and considering I hated the love triangle this was a miracle.
Another reason this was a completed story and no cliffhanger at the end.
Champagne & Lemon Drops – Jean Oram – Reviews Are Us
https://amazonreviewsareus.wordpress....
April 2, 2013
Beth's fiance tells her he needs a break and she finds herself caught between him and the new doctor in town. Her fiance pushes her away while the new doctor is all cozy friendship, at first... I found myself in an unusually position with this story: I was torn between the two guys just like Beth. Usually I latch onto a clear favorite man, but this time the story was so well done and, the men so sympathetic, that I couldn't choose. They were both great!
Except for wanting a little more time spent on the very ending, this story was fantastic. The main character, Beth was very well handled so that her confusion never felt whiny or sad. She was a whole and complex person and I loved when she stood up for herself. Well written and fun, I would happily read the next story.
Except for wanting a little more time spent on the very ending, this story was fantastic. The main character, Beth was very well handled so that her confusion never felt whiny or sad. She was a whole and complex person and I loved when she stood up for herself. Well written and fun, I would happily read the next story.
April 4, 2013
Before the review, I must say I know the author from an online group. She posted it was free for Kindles and so I grabbed it.
Beth is taken aback when her fiance wants a break from their relationship, but she goes along with it. The break turns into weeks, then months.
Another man comes along. She likes him and he likes her so after some serious courting, they get engaged. Logical, huh?
But her old fiance is still in love with her. And Beth... Maybe Beth's still a little in love with him, too.
I don't know that I'd call the story chick lit; it's more of a contemporary romance set in a small town, telling what can happen when people don't communicate. Anyone who enjoys a frothy romance will enjoy it.
Nice read.
Beth is taken aback when her fiance wants a break from their relationship, but she goes along with it. The break turns into weeks, then months.
Another man comes along. She likes him and he likes her so after some serious courting, they get engaged. Logical, huh?
But her old fiance is still in love with her. And Beth... Maybe Beth's still a little in love with him, too.
I don't know that I'd call the story chick lit; it's more of a contemporary romance set in a small town, telling what can happen when people don't communicate. Anyone who enjoys a frothy romance will enjoy it.
Nice read.
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