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Serenity Spa #1
Facial Recognition
For her, it was love at first sight. For him, love wasn't an option.
Twenty years ago, Gracie Cartwright became the first prom queen in the history of Pecan Orchard High School to be stood up. Now, she's on a mission to plan the ultimate high school reunion and get the prom night she always envisioned. All she has to do is find the perfect date. But after going on thirty-five blind dates, she's losing hope that she'll find Mr. Right--or at least Mr. Right Now. Then Brooks Hamilton, the man she knew she was meant to marry, walks into her spa for a facial massage. Too bad she's never forgiven him for standing her up at prom all those years ago. If that isn't enough, she finds out he's dating her nemesis and he's a divorce lawyer who doesn't believe in marriage. And what's worse is, he doesn't recognize her.
However, when Brooks's estranged father falls ill, the pair are thrown together and sparks fly when the old friends butt heads about almost everything. But despite the tension, it doesn't take long for Brooks to recognize that maybe he made a huge mistake letting Gracie go all those years ago. But is it enough for him to let his guard down and admit he was wrong about relationships and give Gracie the prom night she always dreamed of? Or will they miss out on the love that's been right in front of their faces the entire time?
Twenty years ago, Gracie Cartwright became the first prom queen in the history of Pecan Orchard High School to be stood up. Now, she's on a mission to plan the ultimate high school reunion and get the prom night she always envisioned. All she has to do is find the perfect date. But after going on thirty-five blind dates, she's losing hope that she'll find Mr. Right--or at least Mr. Right Now. Then Brooks Hamilton, the man she knew she was meant to marry, walks into her spa for a facial massage. Too bad she's never forgiven him for standing her up at prom all those years ago. If that isn't enough, she finds out he's dating her nemesis and he's a divorce lawyer who doesn't believe in marriage. And what's worse is, he doesn't recognize her.
However, when Brooks's estranged father falls ill, the pair are thrown together and sparks fly when the old friends butt heads about almost everything. But despite the tension, it doesn't take long for Brooks to recognize that maybe he made a huge mistake letting Gracie go all those years ago. But is it enough for him to let his guard down and admit he was wrong about relationships and give Gracie the prom night she always dreamed of? Or will they miss out on the love that's been right in front of their faces the entire time?
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2022
466 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Peel
63 books1,382 followersJennifer Peel is the mother of three amazing kiddos. Wife to her one and only for the past twenty-two years. Lover of late night talks, beach vacations, the mountains, pink bubble gum ice cream, tours of model homes, and southern living. She can frequently be found with her laptop on, fingers typing away, indulging in chocolate milk, and writing out the stories that are constantly swirling through her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
July 3, 2020
Oh holy crow. This book! I'm going to say this right up front: This is one of my favorite books this year so far. Honestly. The minute I finished it, I wanted to go back and read it again. That's the highest praise I can give.
I absolutely loved to be amused and entertained when I read. This book had me cracking up the whole way through. Gracie's internal dialogue was hilarious to me. Here's one of the many, many quotes from the book that I love:
"I'm sorry for not being a better friend to you." If he said the F word one more time, I might start using some of my own F words. You know, like fudge, fondue, flan and frosting straight out of the can.
Hahahahaha!!!! See? Funny. Maybe I'm just craving the things that will bring fun and smiles into my life. The world is a crazy place right now and being able to smile and laugh is important. This book gave me that and I'm ever so grateful.
Yeah, the story wasn't all fun and games. There was definitely some difficult things going on for the characters in this book but the humor balanced it out so well. My heart expanded and fluttered with all kinds of emotion. My tummy fluttered with the zingy attraction. Brooks is a little (and by a little, I mean a LOT) slow on the uptake but when he comes around, be ready. 😍
Gracie is definitely one of my favorite characters from Jennifer Peel's books. Her goodness is evident in everything she does. I also kinda loved that Gracie is a bit more, shall we say, mature in age? Her relationship with Brooks goes back a long way. Second chance at first love is fun!
Gracie and her friends have just opened a spa and I cannot wait to see how the stories unfold for them all. We get a little glimpse of them in this book and it has definitely peaked my interest.
I loved every second of this book. It will be one I re-read whenever I need a good pick-me-up romance.
I absolutely loved to be amused and entertained when I read. This book had me cracking up the whole way through. Gracie's internal dialogue was hilarious to me. Here's one of the many, many quotes from the book that I love:
"I'm sorry for not being a better friend to you." If he said the F word one more time, I might start using some of my own F words. You know, like fudge, fondue, flan and frosting straight out of the can.
Hahahahaha!!!! See? Funny. Maybe I'm just craving the things that will bring fun and smiles into my life. The world is a crazy place right now and being able to smile and laugh is important. This book gave me that and I'm ever so grateful.
Yeah, the story wasn't all fun and games. There was definitely some difficult things going on for the characters in this book but the humor balanced it out so well. My heart expanded and fluttered with all kinds of emotion. My tummy fluttered with the zingy attraction. Brooks is a little (and by a little, I mean a LOT) slow on the uptake but when he comes around, be ready. 😍
Gracie is definitely one of my favorite characters from Jennifer Peel's books. Her goodness is evident in everything she does. I also kinda loved that Gracie is a bit more, shall we say, mature in age? Her relationship with Brooks goes back a long way. Second chance at first love is fun!
Gracie and her friends have just opened a spa and I cannot wait to see how the stories unfold for them all. We get a little glimpse of them in this book and it has definitely peaked my interest.
I loved every second of this book. It will be one I re-read whenever I need a good pick-me-up romance.
August 25, 2023
I feel like I've been saying this a lot lately but, where do I start with this review?!
One of the best feelings in the world is seeing one of your favorite authors release their newest book baby. I'm not going to lie, this girl right here did all kinds of squealing and happy dancing around her bedroom while cancelling any and all plans that would take away from reading this book. I knew the moment I picked it up, I would not be putting it down until I finished it. Somewhere between the beginning and ending of chapter one, I was transported to Pecan Orchard where I was able to immerse myself in all things Gracie and Brooks.
I felt an instant connection to Gracie. She and I could bond over bad first dates. One of my bad dates involved Disneyland, chicken and my little purse. Long story. But I still remember driving away from his house, waving goodbye and smiling at him while saying under my breath... no wonder you're divorced. You're poor ex-wife. And don't even get me started on the guy who's divorce wasn't final (he slipped and mentioned it) who tried to order my food for me because what I chose wasn't "healthy" enough for him. The jerk wouldn't even let me get dessert. How rude is that?! Buuuuuut... I digress. Gracie is one of the best heroines ever. It should come as no surprise that she quickly became one of my favorites. We could all use a Gracie in our lives!
While I loved Gracie instantly, Brooks was a different story. It took a little while for me to warm up to him. I lost count of how many times I wanted to Gibbs slap the man upside the head with a cast iron skillet. To say he knew how to push my buttons is an understatement. But once he stopped being a putz and started opening up, I found myself slowly falling in love with him as well. Even though I really dislike everything he did, I understood his reasons why. Love, patience and forgiveness play a huge role for both Brooks and Gracie. Their story is heartachingly beautiful and I loved every minute of it.
The thing that made this already amazing book even better is the side characters. Y'all they had me busting out laughing at times. They said and did all the right things when it came to Gracie. They were hilarious and so fun! I'm glad we have two more books in this series. I'm nowhere near ready to say goodbye to my new best friends!
Y'all, I can always count on Ms. Peel to deliver a phenomenal book. She really knows how to write a good love story that will have you feeling all the feels and thinking about all the characters long after your close the book. I don't know about you, but I look forward to reading her books over and over and over again. It's no wonder she's one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course I can't forget my casting. Y'all... I'm in love with these two! What do you think?
One of the best feelings in the world is seeing one of your favorite authors release their newest book baby. I'm not going to lie, this girl right here did all kinds of squealing and happy dancing around her bedroom while cancelling any and all plans that would take away from reading this book. I knew the moment I picked it up, I would not be putting it down until I finished it. Somewhere between the beginning and ending of chapter one, I was transported to Pecan Orchard where I was able to immerse myself in all things Gracie and Brooks.
I felt an instant connection to Gracie. She and I could bond over bad first dates. One of my bad dates involved Disneyland, chicken and my little purse. Long story. But I still remember driving away from his house, waving goodbye and smiling at him while saying under my breath... no wonder you're divorced. You're poor ex-wife. And don't even get me started on the guy who's divorce wasn't final (he slipped and mentioned it) who tried to order my food for me because what I chose wasn't "healthy" enough for him. The jerk wouldn't even let me get dessert. How rude is that?! Buuuuuut... I digress. Gracie is one of the best heroines ever. It should come as no surprise that she quickly became one of my favorites. We could all use a Gracie in our lives!
While I loved Gracie instantly, Brooks was a different story. It took a little while for me to warm up to him. I lost count of how many times I wanted to Gibbs slap the man upside the head with a cast iron skillet. To say he knew how to push my buttons is an understatement. But once he stopped being a putz and started opening up, I found myself slowly falling in love with him as well. Even though I really dislike everything he did, I understood his reasons why. Love, patience and forgiveness play a huge role for both Brooks and Gracie. Their story is heartachingly beautiful and I loved every minute of it.
The thing that made this already amazing book even better is the side characters. Y'all they had me busting out laughing at times. They said and did all the right things when it came to Gracie. They were hilarious and so fun! I'm glad we have two more books in this series. I'm nowhere near ready to say goodbye to my new best friends!
Y'all, I can always count on Ms. Peel to deliver a phenomenal book. She really knows how to write a good love story that will have you feeling all the feels and thinking about all the characters long after your close the book. I don't know about you, but I look forward to reading her books over and over and over again. It's no wonder she's one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course I can't forget my casting. Y'all... I'm in love with these two! What do you think?
July 5, 2020
Magically Delicious!
Gracie Cartwright has an amazing life--even if she is still single. She lives at home (by choice) and has the best relationship with her father and next door neighbor, who happens to be the dad of her high school crush. And the friendship she shares with her business partners almost made me jealous. As for Brooks? Yum! The connections, in all regards, are what truly made this story stand out and won me over, heart and soul. Well, that and the chemical romance.
I laughed out loud at the first meeting between Brooks and Gracie after twenty years and was completely hooked from the very first page. There are so many nuances that layer together to deliver a charming treat that left me both satisfied, yet wanting more.
I loved Peel's writing style in this magically delicious romantic comedy. There is plenty of heart through all the laughs, marvelous characters, a high school reunion looming, and the best relationships ever in this small Texas town.
Content: mild+ romance (innuendo, talk of teen sex, kissing); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Gracie Cartwright has an amazing life--even if she is still single. She lives at home (by choice) and has the best relationship with her father and next door neighbor, who happens to be the dad of her high school crush. And the friendship she shares with her business partners almost made me jealous. As for Brooks? Yum! The connections, in all regards, are what truly made this story stand out and won me over, heart and soul. Well, that and the chemical romance.
I laughed out loud at the first meeting between Brooks and Gracie after twenty years and was completely hooked from the very first page. There are so many nuances that layer together to deliver a charming treat that left me both satisfied, yet wanting more.
I loved Peel's writing style in this magically delicious romantic comedy. There is plenty of heart through all the laughs, marvelous characters, a high school reunion looming, and the best relationships ever in this small Texas town.
Content: mild+ romance (innuendo, talk of teen sex, kissing); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
July 23, 2020
Ok. So it was cute and I really liked how strong Grace was. BUT she should not have so easily gone to Brooks. The dude was a jerk!! She full on settled for him and he wasn’t even interested in her like that. And the fact that he just brushed Morgan away after like 20 years like all of a sudden he saw who she really was 🙄 so lame. And how he just flipped a switch and now all of a sudden he’s this nice loving guy who wants to get married?!?! Didn’t buy it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2020
There are just certain writing styles that appeal to me and some do not. Peel is just not my kind of author, but she might be yours. I almost didn't finish this one. I just thought it was cheesy and I couldn't connect with the characters. I didn't like the leading man at all. A lot of "gosh he's so hot, why doesn't he love me" nonsense.
July 6, 2020
Loved, loved this one!
Strike 1: He stood her up at prom 20 years ago
Strike 2: He didn't recognize her after 20 years
Strike 3: He's dating her nemesis
Strike 4: He's a divorce attorney who is opposed to marriage
Even with all the strikes against Brooks, Gracie can't seem to forget about him. She goes on multiple blind dates (some of her dating mishaps are pretty funny) to try to find ANY other guy who will help her forget Brooks.
I loved Gracie from the beginning, and Brooks eventually won me over. This book had great secondary characters from her best friends, Colette & Lorelai, to Dr Julian Bronson (who I'm glad we will see more of in a future story), to Brooks' parents. I'm glad there will be more books in this series!
All the references to General Hospital cracked me up! I actually watched it back in the Dr Noah Drake and Felicia/Frisco era so those references were a throwback. I didn't even know you could watch re-runs (so, of course, I went and looked some of them up)!
Strike 1: He stood her up at prom 20 years ago
Strike 2: He didn't recognize her after 20 years
Strike 3: He's dating her nemesis
Strike 4: He's a divorce attorney who is opposed to marriage
Even with all the strikes against Brooks, Gracie can't seem to forget about him. She goes on multiple blind dates (some of her dating mishaps are pretty funny) to try to find ANY other guy who will help her forget Brooks.
I loved Gracie from the beginning, and Brooks eventually won me over. This book had great secondary characters from her best friends, Colette & Lorelai, to Dr Julian Bronson (who I'm glad we will see more of in a future story), to Brooks' parents. I'm glad there will be more books in this series!
All the references to General Hospital cracked me up! I actually watched it back in the Dr Noah Drake and Felicia/Frisco era so those references were a throwback. I didn't even know you could watch re-runs (so, of course, I went and looked some of them up)!
July 4, 2020
Really good story, reminiscent of her older stuff (like Trouble in Loveland and Professional Boundaries), more the stuff I really enjoy reading. I’m not so keen on her dramatic storylines but really enjoy these. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next two in the series.
June 14, 2023
“Holy crow”!
I’d been in a book rut when this book was released- everything was starting to sound the same and I was having a hard time finding a good book. When I saw this newest book by Jennifer Peel was available, I may have squealed and immediately purchased it.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself with this one. From the beginning I found myself literally laughing out loud (I kept having to share parts of the story with my husband cause I couldn’t stop giggling). Gracie was such a spunky protagonist, and I loved her zeal for life and her loyalty to those she cares about.
Enter Brooks, her biggest what-might-have-been from her high school years, and things get a whole lot more interesting. He’s handsome and successful, but is definitely not the same boy she used to know. I have to admit he wasn’t my favorite person at first, but I truly enjoyed watching him (and a few other side characters) travel the road to redemption.
Jennifer Peel has such a talent for bringing characters and stories to life! You can’t help but ache for the pain and loss these characters feel, or giggle at their witty bantering, or sigh in contentment at the sweet and swoony romance. Another great story, and I’m already aching to read the next two books in this new series!!!
I’d been in a book rut when this book was released- everything was starting to sound the same and I was having a hard time finding a good book. When I saw this newest book by Jennifer Peel was available, I may have squealed and immediately purchased it.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself with this one. From the beginning I found myself literally laughing out loud (I kept having to share parts of the story with my husband cause I couldn’t stop giggling). Gracie was such a spunky protagonist, and I loved her zeal for life and her loyalty to those she cares about.
Enter Brooks, her biggest what-might-have-been from her high school years, and things get a whole lot more interesting. He’s handsome and successful, but is definitely not the same boy she used to know. I have to admit he wasn’t my favorite person at first, but I truly enjoyed watching him (and a few other side characters) travel the road to redemption.
Jennifer Peel has such a talent for bringing characters and stories to life! You can’t help but ache for the pain and loss these characters feel, or giggle at their witty bantering, or sigh in contentment at the sweet and swoony romance. Another great story, and I’m already aching to read the next two books in this new series!!!
July 6, 2020
I honestly was excited about this book... it started off as great but then it pissed me off royally. I had to force myself to finish the darn thing. When I read a book I like to imagine myself as the protagonist and boy, this protagonist (Grace) was just too pitiful. I mean, I love her chutzpah about life and her awesome relationship with her friends, her dad and also with Tom but I'm just not crazy how she is with Brooks.
Maybe I'm being too nega-- but I didn't want to be this protagonist and I didn't want her to end up with Brooks at all. I think she deserves better. I think all women deserves better than Brooks! lol
Maybe I'm being too nega-- but I didn't want to be this protagonist and I didn't want her to end up with Brooks at all. I think she deserves better. I think all women deserves better than Brooks! lol
Read
November 30, 2020I didn’t love this one. I didn’t like the characters or the plot.
July 8, 2020
Holy Crow!
This is an amazing start to a new series by Jennifer Peel. She is one of my favorites for a clean romantic comedy. She did not disappoint with this one. I totally laughed out loud throughout the book. This is a perfect escape for me during a pandemic summer. The heroine is a total sweetheart and I loved being in her head. She is a delight and so fun. The hero had some growing and changing to do but had me rooting for his handsome self the whole time. The funny one though to me is Brooks ' mom and her spray tan glory. Thanks Ms. Peel for a wonderful day of reading.
This is an amazing start to a new series by Jennifer Peel. She is one of my favorites for a clean romantic comedy. She did not disappoint with this one. I totally laughed out loud throughout the book. This is a perfect escape for me during a pandemic summer. The heroine is a total sweetheart and I loved being in her head. She is a delight and so fun. The hero had some growing and changing to do but had me rooting for his handsome self the whole time. The funny one though to me is Brooks ' mom and her spray tan glory. Thanks Ms. Peel for a wonderful day of reading.
July 7, 2020
I love strong heroines and heroes who are excellent matches for them. How great it is to find both in this well-written novel by one of my favorite authors. I was captured from the outset and held bondage until the final period on the last page. I also appreciate reading an author who respects her readers enough to ensure that pesky editing errors are discovered and removed before publication. I thoroughly enjoyed Gracie and Brook's journey to their happily ever after. Five-Stars!
July 7, 2020
Super fun contemporary romance. This second-chance love story is quite heart-breaking at several points, at least for me. Gracie has loved Brooks since she was fourteen and her inner voice said, You’re going to marry that man. But after he stood her up at her senior prom, never spoke to her for the rest of senior year, and then moved out of her life when his parents divorced, she had to give up on him. He seemed to easily erase her from his life.
Now, twenty years later though, he walks into her spa to get a facial that his girlfriend has bought for him. The girlfriend that kept him from always seeing her in high school. The one she pretty much despises. And Morgan is still running his life, although it’s not a very good life. He’s not the boy she remembers, although that stupid inner voice still tells her he’s the man she’s going to marry. Too bad he never got the memo.
This story and the mystery of why Brooks acted as he did back then…and now…was riveting and tugged at all the major heartstrings. Wow. Major played with them. It’s swoony, yet clean, and had great character growth arcs. I always love Peel’s characters she writes. They deal with difficult issues, but the story is still told in a really fun way that I adore. Another winner for this author! 😊
Now, twenty years later though, he walks into her spa to get a facial that his girlfriend has bought for him. The girlfriend that kept him from always seeing her in high school. The one she pretty much despises. And Morgan is still running his life, although it’s not a very good life. He’s not the boy she remembers, although that stupid inner voice still tells her he’s the man she’s going to marry. Too bad he never got the memo.
This story and the mystery of why Brooks acted as he did back then…and now…was riveting and tugged at all the major heartstrings. Wow. Major played with them. It’s swoony, yet clean, and had great character growth arcs. I always love Peel’s characters she writes. They deal with difficult issues, but the story is still told in a really fun way that I adore. Another winner for this author! 😊
July 4, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this fun, light-hearted romance. Lots of hilarious, laugh out loud moments and quirky characters that I’ve come to love from Jennifer Peel books. And the sweet pursuit when the guy finally decides to go for the girl... sooo good! This is one of my favorite reads this summer.
March 23, 2021
I feel like I've been saying this a lot lately but, where do I start with this review?!
One of the best feelings in the world is seeing one of your favorite authors release their newest book baby. I'm not going to lie, this girl right here did all kinds of squealing and happy dancing around her bedroom while cancelling any and all plans that would take away from reading this book. I knew the moment I picked it up, I would not be putting it down until I finished it. Somewhere between the beginning and ending of chapter one, I was transported to Pecan Orchard where I was able to immerse myself in all things Gracie and Brooks.
I felt an instant connection to Gracie. She and I could bond over bad first dates. One of my bad dates involved Disneyland, chicken and my little purse. Long story. But I still remember driving away from his house, waving goodbye and smiling at him while saying under my breath... no wonder you're divorced. You're poor ex-wife. And don't even get me started on the guy who's divorce wasn't final (he slipped and mentioned it) who tried to order my food for me because what I chose wasn't "healthy" enough for him. The jerk wouldn't even let me get dessert. How rude is that?! Buuuuuut... I digress. Gracie is one of the best heroines ever. It should come as no surprise that she quickly became one of my favorites. We could all use a Gracie in our lives!
While I loved Gracie instantly, Brooks was a different story. It took a little while for me to warm up to him. I lost count of how many times I wanted to Gibbs slap the man upside the head with a cast iron skillet. To say he knew how to push my buttons is an understatement. But once he stopped being a putz and started opening up, I found myself slowly falling in love with him as well. Even though I really dislike everything he did, I understood his reasons why. Love, patience and forgiveness play a huge role for both Brooks and Gracie. Their story is heartachingly beautiful and I loved every minute of it.
The thing that made this already amazing book even better is the side characters. Y'all they had me busting out laughing at times. They said and did all the right things when it came to Gracie. They were hilarious and so fun! I'm glad we have two more books in this series. I'm nowhere near ready to say goodbye to my new best friends!
Y'all, I can always count on Ms. Peel to deliver a phenomenal book. She really knows how to write a good love story that will have you feeling all the feels and thinking about all the characters long after your close the book. I don't know about you, but I look forward to reading her books over and over and over again. It's no wonder she's one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course I can't forget my casting. Y'all... I'm in love with these two! What do you think?
One of the best feelings in the world is seeing one of your favorite authors release their newest book baby. I'm not going to lie, this girl right here did all kinds of squealing and happy dancing around her bedroom while cancelling any and all plans that would take away from reading this book. I knew the moment I picked it up, I would not be putting it down until I finished it. Somewhere between the beginning and ending of chapter one, I was transported to Pecan Orchard where I was able to immerse myself in all things Gracie and Brooks.
I felt an instant connection to Gracie. She and I could bond over bad first dates. One of my bad dates involved Disneyland, chicken and my little purse. Long story. But I still remember driving away from his house, waving goodbye and smiling at him while saying under my breath... no wonder you're divorced. You're poor ex-wife. And don't even get me started on the guy who's divorce wasn't final (he slipped and mentioned it) who tried to order my food for me because what I chose wasn't "healthy" enough for him. The jerk wouldn't even let me get dessert. How rude is that?! Buuuuuut... I digress. Gracie is one of the best heroines ever. It should come as no surprise that she quickly became one of my favorites. We could all use a Gracie in our lives!
While I loved Gracie instantly, Brooks was a different story. It took a little while for me to warm up to him. I lost count of how many times I wanted to Gibbs slap the man upside the head with a cast iron skillet. To say he knew how to push my buttons is an understatement. But once he stopped being a putz and started opening up, I found myself slowly falling in love with him as well. Even though I really dislike everything he did, I understood his reasons why. Love, patience and forgiveness play a huge role for both Brooks and Gracie. Their story is heartachingly beautiful and I loved every minute of it.
The thing that made this already amazing book even better is the side characters. Y'all they had me busting out laughing at times. They said and did all the right things when it came to Gracie. They were hilarious and so fun! I'm glad we have two more books in this series. I'm nowhere near ready to say goodbye to my new best friends!
Y'all, I can always count on Ms. Peel to deliver a phenomenal book. She really knows how to write a good love story that will have you feeling all the feels and thinking about all the characters long after your close the book. I don't know about you, but I look forward to reading her books over and over and over again. It's no wonder she's one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course I can't forget my casting. Y'all... I'm in love with these two! What do you think?
August 9, 2020
***Warning-some spoilers For the most part, I enjoyed this book.
The main character, Grace, was funny, witty, smart and a genuinely nice person. I liked her sassy attitude and her loyalty to her father and his friend Tom. (though the living with her father at her age? Not so much.) I also liked her sense of adventure, going on blind dates to find "the one" to take to her 20th reunion.
That said, I HATED Brooks. He was not worthy of Grace's love, or her forgiveness. I actually thought the flawed, Julian was a bit more human and worthy of her.
Brooks was pompous, frigid and a jerk. What he did to Gracie at prom is not anything that I ever think I could forgive and she was supposed to be his best friend. And I did not get Brook's relationship with Julian's sister. She was one cold fish!!! And if Brooks really had been a great guy when they were in HS, not sure WHY he would have liked Julian's sister in the first place unless she was putting out, which she wasn't. I also know that people do NOT CHANGE that fast, nor do they change for others, only themselves. Yes, it could have been due to his father's heart attack but the change was just too fast for me to believe.
If you want some laughs, read the book. However, I am not sure that I think Brooks and Grace were a believable couple together.
The main character, Grace, was funny, witty, smart and a genuinely nice person. I liked her sassy attitude and her loyalty to her father and his friend Tom. (though the living with her father at her age? Not so much.) I also liked her sense of adventure, going on blind dates to find "the one" to take to her 20th reunion.
That said, I HATED Brooks. He was not worthy of Grace's love, or her forgiveness. I actually thought the flawed, Julian was a bit more human and worthy of her.
Brooks was pompous, frigid and a jerk. What he did to Gracie at prom is not anything that I ever think I could forgive and she was supposed to be his best friend. And I did not get Brook's relationship with Julian's sister. She was one cold fish!!! And if Brooks really had been a great guy when they were in HS, not sure WHY he would have liked Julian's sister in the first place unless she was putting out, which she wasn't. I also know that people do NOT CHANGE that fast, nor do they change for others, only themselves. Yes, it could have been due to his father's heart attack but the change was just too fast for me to believe.
If you want some laughs, read the book. However, I am not sure that I think Brooks and Grace were a believable couple together.
March 23, 2021
Not sure how I feel
I know people can change and I believe in forgiveness, but after the way he acted, I couldn't ever look at Brooks the same. The world treats sex as just an act because there's no self control. Call me naive or whatever, but it's more than that to me. I felt cheated and betrayed in Grace's behalf. He was exactly what he couldn't forgive his dad for being (except he and Grace weren't married, but it almost felt that way because she had loved him for so long). And I couldn't believe how stupid he was about Morgan and her manipulations. He ruined it for me. I wanted to still like him, but I couldn't. This one boardered on not clean enough for my taste. There was only kissing with tongue, but it suggested a whole heck of a lot more. I do like the humorous one liners. Grace is the best!
I know people can change and I believe in forgiveness, but after the way he acted, I couldn't ever look at Brooks the same. The world treats sex as just an act because there's no self control. Call me naive or whatever, but it's more than that to me. I felt cheated and betrayed in Grace's behalf. He was exactly what he couldn't forgive his dad for being (except he and Grace weren't married, but it almost felt that way because she had loved him for so long). And I couldn't believe how stupid he was about Morgan and her manipulations. He ruined it for me. I wanted to still like him, but I couldn't. This one boardered on not clean enough for my taste. There was only kissing with tongue, but it suggested a whole heck of a lot more. I do like the humorous one liners. Grace is the best!
July 29, 2020
I Couldn't Stop Smiling!
I've been afraid to pick up Facial Recognition because I know myself and the powerful hold Jennifer Peel's books have on me. I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down, and I was right about that.
Grace knows from their first meeting that Brooks is The One. Brooks takes a while lot longer to figure it out. I loved their first remeeting. Grancie's spunk was constantly making me laugh. She was loyal, sweet, snarky, and brutally honest. Jennifer Peel writes the best confrontation scenes!
An addicting combination of humor, depth, and romance, you have to read it!
Content: clean (mild innuendo, making out, a handful of mild curse words)
I've been afraid to pick up Facial Recognition because I know myself and the powerful hold Jennifer Peel's books have on me. I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down, and I was right about that.
Grace knows from their first meeting that Brooks is The One. Brooks takes a while lot longer to figure it out. I loved their first remeeting. Grancie's spunk was constantly making me laugh. She was loyal, sweet, snarky, and brutally honest. Jennifer Peel writes the best confrontation scenes!
An addicting combination of humor, depth, and romance, you have to read it!
Content: clean (mild innuendo, making out, a handful of mild curse words)
July 8, 2020
I just had such a hard time with the concept of Morgan and Brooks. Twenty years of Brooks being an idiot and almost overnight he flip-flops—turning into a lovely human? I just didn’t buy it. My rating just ratcheted down and down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2020
Minus 2 stars for our hero here. I hated him and unfortunately, she ended up marrying him. she really doesn't know her worth, that's what bothers me the most.
September 18, 2025
these characters were damn near 40 acting 17
May 9, 2024
“Holy Crow” this book is cute!!
Oh my gosh! This book is ADORABLE!! It’s a mix of grumpy/sunshine and childhood friends who are reunited and become more!
Brooks and Gracie were best friends until that fateful prom night when Brooks stood Grace up and shortly after disappeared and didn’t come back. Now, 20 years later, here he is in Gracie’s spa, and while she immediately recognizes him, he has no idea who she is. A medical emergency brings them back into each others lives more than they would like. Can the past be forgiven and is the future a possibility?
Oh, man! I loved these two so much n Gracie is just the cutest, happiest girl around! She always looks on the bright side and takes care of everyone around her!
Brooks is broody and unhappy and doesn’t care who knows it. He has given up on the idea of love and marriage and needs some help finding himself again. I really loved how his character evolved throughout the story. He was such a sweetheart underneath that angry exterior!
Darlin’, you’re gonna love this book!!
Oh my gosh! This book is ADORABLE!! It’s a mix of grumpy/sunshine and childhood friends who are reunited and become more!
Brooks and Gracie were best friends until that fateful prom night when Brooks stood Grace up and shortly after disappeared and didn’t come back. Now, 20 years later, here he is in Gracie’s spa, and while she immediately recognizes him, he has no idea who she is. A medical emergency brings them back into each others lives more than they would like. Can the past be forgiven and is the future a possibility?
Oh, man! I loved these two so much n Gracie is just the cutest, happiest girl around! She always looks on the bright side and takes care of everyone around her!
Brooks is broody and unhappy and doesn’t care who knows it. He has given up on the idea of love and marriage and needs some help finding himself again. I really loved how his character evolved throughout the story. He was such a sweetheart underneath that angry exterior!
Darlin’, you’re gonna love this book!!
July 5, 2020
A fantastic, clean, romantic read. I wanted to read this book straight through without stopping, but life interrupted. I was anxious to get back everytime I had to set the book down.
The heroine in this story has such an amazing personality--loving, forgiving, witty, fun-loving, adventurous, etc. Her challenges showcased her strength and resiliency. She's definitely a character that makes the story come to life.
The hero really had to work to earn his title. That being said, he rose to the challenge and wins the award for 'most developed' in the story (in more ways than one 😉).
I'm excited to read more from this author, especially her additions to this series. These spa girls deserve their happily ever afters.
The heroine in this story has such an amazing personality--loving, forgiving, witty, fun-loving, adventurous, etc. Her challenges showcased her strength and resiliency. She's definitely a character that makes the story come to life.
The hero really had to work to earn his title. That being said, he rose to the challenge and wins the award for 'most developed' in the story (in more ways than one 😉).
I'm excited to read more from this author, especially her additions to this series. These spa girls deserve their happily ever afters.
July 4, 2020
Like a little sizzle with your romance?
Sometimes, I wish this author’s female characters didn’t melt so easily, and the guys smile when they should be feeling contrite - but that is really only because she knows how to get my emotions roiling, and I’d like to give him a little more grief before the happy ending. This is another great emotional roller coaster, and I can’t wait to read the next two books in the series. This author writes people well - complex, imperfect, human. It is always a joy to lose myself in her words.
Clean, with kissing, but there is a bit of sizzle there.
Sometimes, I wish this author’s female characters didn’t melt so easily, and the guys smile when they should be feeling contrite - but that is really only because she knows how to get my emotions roiling, and I’d like to give him a little more grief before the happy ending. This is another great emotional roller coaster, and I can’t wait to read the next two books in the series. This author writes people well - complex, imperfect, human. It is always a joy to lose myself in her words.
Clean, with kissing, but there is a bit of sizzle there.
November 19, 2021
I really loved the setup of this one, unrequited love where Brooks doesn’t even remember Grace and they were best friends once upon a time about 20 years ago. While Grace is crushed, she’s also making her best effort to move forward and look elsewhere. As much as I enjoyed this story and how Grace held her head up high, I am puzzled over how someone like Brooks let a self-centered girlfriend dictate over so much of his life, but other than that, he did come around and made up for his previous blunders. I also liked the side story regarding Brooks’ parents since it had such an impact on how he viewed love and relationships.
December 13, 2024
So sweet
This was lovely. Grace and Brooks are the couple that should have been but never was. I loved getting to know Grace through her POV and watching as she stood up for herself. I was a bit less impressed with Brooks, but his journey back to discovering himself was admirable. This was a wonderful, light-hearted palate cleanser with enough heartache to sting in the best possible way.
This was lovely. Grace and Brooks are the couple that should have been but never was. I loved getting to know Grace through her POV and watching as she stood up for herself. I was a bit less impressed with Brooks, but his journey back to discovering himself was admirable. This was a wonderful, light-hearted palate cleanser with enough heartache to sting in the best possible way.
July 15, 2020
As always a GREAT book
I loved this book, but that is usually a given with any Jennifer Peel book. I have read everyone and am never disappointed. Brooks and Grace's story was entertaining, funny, poignant and just all around great. I'm ready for the next book in the series.
I loved this book, but that is usually a given with any Jennifer Peel book. I have read everyone and am never disappointed. Brooks and Grace's story was entertaining, funny, poignant and just all around great. I'm ready for the next book in the series.
July 5, 2020
Loved it! This is such a wonderful book! Plan on staying up late...you won’t be able to put this one down!
July 24, 2020
It's Jennifer Peel, so of course it was good! Can't wait for the other two in the series!
July 11, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
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