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Lake Bittersweet #3
The Setup
He left without warning in the middle of a Lake Bittersweet winter.
Now he’s back... just in time for the holidays.
For Gina Moretti, the holidays are bittersweet thanks to a history of romantic disasters. This holiday season, her friends are taking the reins and are setting her up. Little did she know the whole town would get into the act, but that’s Lake Bittersweet for you. When a date goes sideways, she’s shocked to be rescued by the one-and-only Kirk Williams–her brother’s best friend, who left town long ago and is now a celebrity hero.
Kirk is back in Lake Bittersweet for some peace and quiet, but once he sees Gina, that’s out of the question. His best friend’s tomboy little sister is now a gorgeous woman with secrets of her own. When she asks him for help tracking down someone from her past, he jumps at the chance to win her trust. As for resisting their intense attraction…he might be famous for his heroic rescues, but he’s not that strong.
Can Kirk and Gina banish the ghosts of holidays past and claim the future of their dreams …while dealing with family revelations, obsessed fans, and the endless parade of holiday setups?
Now he’s back... just in time for the holidays.
For Gina Moretti, the holidays are bittersweet thanks to a history of romantic disasters. This holiday season, her friends are taking the reins and are setting her up. Little did she know the whole town would get into the act, but that’s Lake Bittersweet for you. When a date goes sideways, she’s shocked to be rescued by the one-and-only Kirk Williams–her brother’s best friend, who left town long ago and is now a celebrity hero.
Kirk is back in Lake Bittersweet for some peace and quiet, but once he sees Gina, that’s out of the question. His best friend’s tomboy little sister is now a gorgeous woman with secrets of her own. When she asks him for help tracking down someone from her past, he jumps at the chance to win her trust. As for resisting their intense attraction…he might be famous for his heroic rescues, but he’s not that strong.
Can Kirk and Gina banish the ghosts of holidays past and claim the future of their dreams …while dealing with family revelations, obsessed fans, and the endless parade of holiday setups?
- GenresRomanceContemporary
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2022
22 people are currently reading
1720 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bernard
87 books1,382 followersJennifer Bernard is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. Her books have been called “an irresistible reading experience” full of “quick wit and sizzling love scenes.” A graduate of Harvard and former news promo producer, she left big city life in Los Angeles for true love in Alaska, where she now lives with her husband and stepdaughters. She still hasn’t adjusted to the cold, so most often she can be found cuddling with her laptop and a cup of tea. No stranger to book success, she also writes erotic novellas under a naughty secret name that she’s happy to share with the curious.
You can connect with Jennifer online at http://JenniferBernard.net or email her at Jen@JenniferBernard.net.
You can connect with Jennifer online at http://JenniferBernard.net or email her at Jen@JenniferBernard.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
December 27, 2022
Gina Moretti may have had her Olympic dreams dashed, but she has the safety and security of her family and small town to fall back on. Except her past has a way of affecting her present, which includes her unsuccessful dating life. But that’s okay, because her family (overbearing big brothers, anyone?) and the entire town have her back and it seems like everyone and their brother wants to get in on setting Gina up on dates.
Epically bad dates, where after an especially underwhelming first date Gina needs an out and it's her brother’s best friend who rescues her. Kirk Williams never thought he'd be back at Lake Bittersweet, but a message on his phone sees him returning to the place he grew up. A place with bad family memories, but also the Moretti family who cared for him as one of their own.
Peppered with a little bit of drama, some danger and suspense, Gina learns to let go of the past, and Kirk finally realizes that the man he has become is enough. With the perfect balance of humor, heat and heart, we see that Christmas is a wonderful time to reunite with family, whether it be the one we're born into or the one we find along the way. Grab a cozy blanket and your favorite hot drink and settle in for a fantastic read. I have no doubt you'll enjoy your time at Lake Bittersweet!
Epically bad dates, where after an especially underwhelming first date Gina needs an out and it's her brother’s best friend who rescues her. Kirk Williams never thought he'd be back at Lake Bittersweet, but a message on his phone sees him returning to the place he grew up. A place with bad family memories, but also the Moretti family who cared for him as one of their own.
Peppered with a little bit of drama, some danger and suspense, Gina learns to let go of the past, and Kirk finally realizes that the man he has become is enough. With the perfect balance of humor, heat and heart, we see that Christmas is a wonderful time to reunite with family, whether it be the one we're born into or the one we find along the way. Grab a cozy blanket and your favorite hot drink and settle in for a fantastic read. I have no doubt you'll enjoy your time at Lake Bittersweet!
December 27, 2022
Gina hasn’t always made the best choices when it comes to the men in her life but that doesn’t deter her from wanting to find that special someone to spend her life with. She has been convinced that the people in town will be able to find her the perfect match, but she is beginning to lose hope as she experiences another forgettable date until Kirk comes back into her life.
Kirk didn’t have the best family situation, but he found a second home within the Moretti family. He left town as soon as he could and has spent that time helping others until an injury sidelines him and he finds himself back in his hometown for the holidays. The one thing he hadn’t expected was that the girl he knew had become an intriguing woman and friends would no longer be enough.
This is a heartwarming story that is filled with romance, family, great characters and just enough suspense to keep things interesting.
Kirk didn’t have the best family situation, but he found a second home within the Moretti family. He left town as soon as he could and has spent that time helping others until an injury sidelines him and he finds himself back in his hometown for the holidays. The one thing he hadn’t expected was that the girl he knew had become an intriguing woman and friends would no longer be enough.
This is a heartwarming story that is filled with romance, family, great characters and just enough suspense to keep things interesting.
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March 25, 2023This was a great holiday read, a third in a series but it can easily be read as a standalone. Gina is a fiery athletic woman who is struggling to find a job she likes, and a man worth keeping around. She has had a lot of missteps in romance, so she has agreed to let the townspeople help set her up to find someone for the holidays. As she’s out on yet another bad first date, she runs into hero, author, and old best friend of her big brothers Kirk. Kirk is a minor celebrity who fled town long ago, ready to leave their hometown as soon as possible and only grudgingly does he come back now. When Kirk first sees Gina all grown up, he’s shocked at the chemistry, and confusion he feels about it. Both Gina and Kirk have a lot to work through as they explore what could be between them. This story is filled with laughter, family drama, and some serious issues handled with care. I received an ARC of this story, and this is my honest review.
January 4, 2023
Closely knit Italian family. Youngest child and only girl. Mom and dad wanting their daughter happily married and preferably pregnant. Brothers who want to vet every man she dates. Is it no wonder that Gina is an epic tomboy and wants to make her own decisions?
A world class athlete, Gina has some issues after she washes out of an Olympic training camp. She did not tell the whole story about WHY she left. Her silence continues to make her doubt herself in every aspect of her life. She loves her town of Lake Bittersweet MN, and wants to stay in the town forever. It's comfortable and no one needs to know why she doesn't want to leave.
Kirk could not wait to get out of Lake Bittersweet. A mother that abandoned him, a sister that left as soon as she could, and a father that was not a great role model, Kirk vowed he'd get out of town and make something of himself. The best times of his life were when he was an honorary son of Gina's parents and another brother to Gina.
Kirk is back in Lake Bittersweet to recover from an injury and because his estranged sister wants to meet up with him in their former hometown. Gina is the caretaker of the rental he has for the next month.
Here we go.
Some twists and turns making you wonder who has it in for Kirk and Gina for a little suspense, but ultimately, a very sweet story with two old friends realizing they have been searching for someone all over the world, when their hearts already knew who they wanted. Healing for more than just Gina and Kirk as we find out who is out to get them, and bringing family back together. A great read.
A world class athlete, Gina has some issues after she washes out of an Olympic training camp. She did not tell the whole story about WHY she left. Her silence continues to make her doubt herself in every aspect of her life. She loves her town of Lake Bittersweet MN, and wants to stay in the town forever. It's comfortable and no one needs to know why she doesn't want to leave.
Kirk could not wait to get out of Lake Bittersweet. A mother that abandoned him, a sister that left as soon as she could, and a father that was not a great role model, Kirk vowed he'd get out of town and make something of himself. The best times of his life were when he was an honorary son of Gina's parents and another brother to Gina.
Kirk is back in Lake Bittersweet to recover from an injury and because his estranged sister wants to meet up with him in their former hometown. Gina is the caretaker of the rental he has for the next month.
Here we go.
Some twists and turns making you wonder who has it in for Kirk and Gina for a little suspense, but ultimately, a very sweet story with two old friends realizing they have been searching for someone all over the world, when their hearts already knew who they wanted. Healing for more than just Gina and Kirk as we find out who is out to get them, and bringing family back together. A great read.
December 31, 2022
Jennifer Bernard created another amazing and delightful story with The Setup, book three in her Lake Bittersweet series. This is Gina Moretti and Kirk Williams’ love story; a unexpected love story with a return to Lake Bittersweet. Gina knows that she needs to move forward with her life and get over her holiday glumness; the lost Olympic dream and her ex-husband. The residents of the town of Lake Bittersweet are trying to help her find "the one" with this year's Gina-stakes. Kirk grew up in Lake Bittersweet, was best friends with Gina’s brother and hung-out at her home; but left town to get away from his father and never looked back. That is until his sister asks to meet her there. He figures it’s a great idea because it allows him to get away from his last heroic event, get some peace and quiet, and heal his broken leg. The first person he sees when he gets to Lake Bittersweet is Gina and she has grown into a woman, not at all like the little sister of his best friends that he remembers. Kirk feels the sparks right away and decides he wants to spend more time with Gina. For Gina, the sparks and magnetic attraction has always been there. Gina and Kirk are the perfect combination of serious and quirky and giving in to their desires was the perfect match for them.
Ms. Bernard wrote an amazing, emotional, sizzling and heartwarming, story that should not be missed. She provided a tale rich with magnetic attraction, off the charts chemistry, and quirky, memorable secondary characters, helping Gina and Kirk find a loving future together. I highly recommend The Setup to other readers and I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Bernard wrote an amazing, emotional, sizzling and heartwarming, story that should not be missed. She provided a tale rich with magnetic attraction, off the charts chemistry, and quirky, memorable secondary characters, helping Gina and Kirk find a loving future together. I highly recommend The Setup to other readers and I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 27, 2022
Another Lake Bittersweet story just in time for the holidays. The Moretti family has been a staple in the Lake Bittersweet community for a lifetime. Raised in a family brothers Gina Moretti has always been one of the boys. How can she not be when she is the only “girl” in the family. It comes as no surprise that she would have issues when it comes to finding love. Not for the lack of trying though. She has struck out twice during the holidays and now it has become the goal of everyone in town to set up Gina with someone.
Kirk Williams is also a Lake Bittersweet native. But he grew up a lot different than Gina. So much different that after his mother left and father didn’t show him any parental interest he actually ended up being “adopted”by the Moretti family and was shown the love/attention he never had. He also moved away. And became quite famous thanks to a book that he wrote. He never thought he would ever return to Lake Bittersweet. Thanks to a message from his long lost sister he has returned though. Since he really never said a proper good bye he is unsure if the community will welcome him back with open arms though.
This book and series as a whole is what I call a quick read. Perfect excuse to just spend an afternoon reading or taking a much needed break and getting caught up in a good story. You definitely won’t want to put it down! Jennifer Bernard just has a way with words and catches your interest from the first page and keeps your interest until the very end.
Kirk Williams is also a Lake Bittersweet native. But he grew up a lot different than Gina. So much different that after his mother left and father didn’t show him any parental interest he actually ended up being “adopted”by the Moretti family and was shown the love/attention he never had. He also moved away. And became quite famous thanks to a book that he wrote. He never thought he would ever return to Lake Bittersweet. Thanks to a message from his long lost sister he has returned though. Since he really never said a proper good bye he is unsure if the community will welcome him back with open arms though.
This book and series as a whole is what I call a quick read. Perfect excuse to just spend an afternoon reading or taking a much needed break and getting caught up in a good story. You definitely won’t want to put it down! Jennifer Bernard just has a way with words and catches your interest from the first page and keeps your interest until the very end.
December 30, 2022
Such an enjoyable read! This story includes humor, emotional baggage and a change of direction for the two main character’s life plans.
I loved how Gina’s childhood growing up as the baby sister in a rowdy, athletic, fun-loving, loud family in Lake Bittersweet MN influenced her personality. The little sister determined to keep up with her brothers and her competitive drive continued with her Olympic dreams. Even though she comes across as sassy and confident, internally she harbors feels of shame and failure.
She’s determined to change things up and has agreed to let her loved ones set her up on dates to see if she can find ‘the one’ and shake her lack of Christmas spirit after years of dreading what was previously her favorite holiday.
Most of her dates are hilariously dreadful despite her friends thinking their candidate in the Gina-stakes is perfect for her. An unexpected prospect is back in town, Kirk Williams, her brothers’ childhood friend. Is he a pseudo brother or a potential match? Is she his best friend’s baby sister or the sexy siren he’s been daydreaming about?
This is an entertaining story with wonderful characters. I think it could be read as a standalone, but I did read the first book in the series so I did have some back story on many of the friends mentioned in the story.
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
I loved how Gina’s childhood growing up as the baby sister in a rowdy, athletic, fun-loving, loud family in Lake Bittersweet MN influenced her personality. The little sister determined to keep up with her brothers and her competitive drive continued with her Olympic dreams. Even though she comes across as sassy and confident, internally she harbors feels of shame and failure.
She’s determined to change things up and has agreed to let her loved ones set her up on dates to see if she can find ‘the one’ and shake her lack of Christmas spirit after years of dreading what was previously her favorite holiday.
Most of her dates are hilariously dreadful despite her friends thinking their candidate in the Gina-stakes is perfect for her. An unexpected prospect is back in town, Kirk Williams, her brothers’ childhood friend. Is he a pseudo brother or a potential match? Is she his best friend’s baby sister or the sexy siren he’s been daydreaming about?
This is an entertaining story with wonderful characters. I think it could be read as a standalone, but I did read the first book in the series so I did have some back story on many of the friends mentioned in the story.
I received a free ARC from the author and Elle Woods PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
January 4, 2023
Jennifer Bernard writes the best books! In the Lake Bittersweet series, I never know if I’ll laugh out loud or maybe shed a couple of tears. Gina is hysterical and the town Gina-stakes is unique to the mind of this author. There are so many warm (and hilarious) moments with friends and family, not to mention the soft, and hot, memorable love making. And so many sub-plots to enjoy. We finally get to know Gina Moretti, one of the five friends who were chambermaids together at the Blue Drake one long ago summer. We finally get to find out what happened at the Olympic trials. At least Gina still canoes as much as ever. Until now we haven’t learned much about Gina’s family or their close family friend, Kirk. Kirk Williams hasn’t been back to Lake Bittersweet since joining the Army, writing a book, and becoming semi-famous. He came back to recuperate in private. In The Setup we are introduced to some new characters I hope we see again: Kirk’s long estranged sister Sassy and her daughter, his FBI friend Earl Granger, and maybe even Jerome Mason, the owner of Kirk’s ultra-tech rental house. We also got brief updates on familiar characters such as Carly and Thomas and their siblings, Kendra and her father Alvin Carter, and a few others who populate the Lake Bittersweet stories. As they always are, The Setup by Jennifer Bernard is another well-written, well-plotted, and well-edited story not to be missed.
January 1, 2023
This was a fabulous read, Kirk and Gina are a great couple.
With her Olympic dreams and a short-lived marriage both coming to an end at Christmastime, this has always been a tough time of the year for Gina and the residents of Lake Bittersweet are all caught up in setting Gina up on dates for the holidays.
Kirk arrives back in town after breaking a leg foiling an attempted kidnap; needing some peace and quiet and receiving a mysterious message from his sister whom he hasn’t seen since he was a kid, Lake Bittersweet – a place he couldn’t get away from fast enough growing up – seemed like the perfect place to lay low and out of the media spotlight.
Little did he know the stunning brunette in the red dress he encountered on his first night in town was none other than Gina, his best friend’s little sister he grew up with!
The sassy and witty banter between these two makes this story an absolute pleasure to read and their chemistry, well, let’s just say, it leads to some steamy hot sex scenes.
But there’s more to this novel that just Kirk and Gina getting together; bad dates, unknown relatives, troubled stalkers, FBI Agents, car chases and dress up Christmas parties; you get all that in a tightly woven story that ends up delivering on the happily ever after.
A Joy to read!
With her Olympic dreams and a short-lived marriage both coming to an end at Christmastime, this has always been a tough time of the year for Gina and the residents of Lake Bittersweet are all caught up in setting Gina up on dates for the holidays.
Kirk arrives back in town after breaking a leg foiling an attempted kidnap; needing some peace and quiet and receiving a mysterious message from his sister whom he hasn’t seen since he was a kid, Lake Bittersweet – a place he couldn’t get away from fast enough growing up – seemed like the perfect place to lay low and out of the media spotlight.
Little did he know the stunning brunette in the red dress he encountered on his first night in town was none other than Gina, his best friend’s little sister he grew up with!
The sassy and witty banter between these two makes this story an absolute pleasure to read and their chemistry, well, let’s just say, it leads to some steamy hot sex scenes.
But there’s more to this novel that just Kirk and Gina getting together; bad dates, unknown relatives, troubled stalkers, FBI Agents, car chases and dress up Christmas parties; you get all that in a tightly woven story that ends up delivering on the happily ever after.
A Joy to read!
January 1, 2023
This is the third book in the Lake Bittersweet series and I really liked how there was a tie-in to the Lost Harbor series, but that it wasn't overwhelming, and the characters in this book were front and center, allowing it to catch my attention from the first page and not letting go until the end. There were so many emotions that were conveyed through the words that at times it was hard to tell which left the most resounding effect. The feelings of family love and loyalty, along with the burden that the secret Gina was carrying with her that overshadowed every aspect of her adult life, was so heart-wrenching. Kirk was an absolute godsend for her, even though he had a lot of family issues to work through also before he could hope to have the HEA with Gina that he didn't realize he wanted until it was almost too late. The drama towards the end of the book was written so well, and I loved how color made a difference in providing a successful conclusion to the suspense. One of the reasons that I enjoy books written by Jennifer Bernard is that she manages to engage with her readers and always involves the heartstrings in one way or another each time! I'm looking forward to more books that involve the residents of Lake Bittersweet coming to us in the future!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
January 3, 2023
It's Christmas time in Lake Bittersweet and maybe a Christmas miracle or two will happen! Kirk Williams left Lake Bittersweet well over a decade ago. He enlisted in the military and planned to always keep moving forward and never looking back to the town he grew up in. He did have some happy memories of Lake Bittersweet and they all revolved around hanging out with the Moretti family. His friends family was everything that the Williams family wasn't. Kirk is recovering from an injury and Lake Bittersweet seems like the perfect place to peacefully and privately recover. On his first night in town he runs into little Gina Moretti who is all grown up and looking like his own personal dream girl. Gina has also had a lot of changes in the past 17 years. She's no longer a little girl chasing around her big brothers and their friend trying to get attention. She has had some things shape her and she's trying to reconcile them and move forward in the town that she loves so much. Can these two find what they both are yearning for with each other? The Setup is a really fun story. The characters are wonderful. The angst is minimal. The setting is beautiful and the setups are hilarious! It was told from dual POV, stands alone in the series but do yourself a big favor and read those too so you can meet this group of friends from this small, fictional, lakeside town.
February 6, 2024
Sometimes all you need is someone you grew up with.
Book three in the Lake Bittersweet is between Gina Moretti and Kirk Williams. Both born and raised in Lake Bittersweet. Gina is from a big, boisterous Italian family. She is the baby of the family with three older, rowdy brothers. Kirk grew up on the edge of town with a mean, vengeful father.
Kirk has done well for himself. He left high school and joined the service. After the service he wrote a book that became a best seller. He is somewhat of a hero. Having just saved a child in Boston but breaking his leg. He decides to recoup in the town he promised himself he would never step foot in.
Gina is a Jack of all trades. She is managing the cottages for her friend Kendra. Still canoeing even though the Olympic thing never transpired. Holidays are not her favorite time. All of her friends, and the town are trying to match her up with someone to make her holidays all covered in glitter.
Kirk was best friends with Gina’s brother and she remembers a little idol worship when she was a kid. There is definitely some chemistry between these two. While one grew up in a loving family the other in the house from hell, they both are kindred souls.
The town is a hoot at this match making thing. Kirk is not thinking of Gina as a little sister. They each have a bit of a mystery surrounding themselves.
Book three in the Lake Bittersweet is between Gina Moretti and Kirk Williams. Both born and raised in Lake Bittersweet. Gina is from a big, boisterous Italian family. She is the baby of the family with three older, rowdy brothers. Kirk grew up on the edge of town with a mean, vengeful father.
Kirk has done well for himself. He left high school and joined the service. After the service he wrote a book that became a best seller. He is somewhat of a hero. Having just saved a child in Boston but breaking his leg. He decides to recoup in the town he promised himself he would never step foot in.
Gina is a Jack of all trades. She is managing the cottages for her friend Kendra. Still canoeing even though the Olympic thing never transpired. Holidays are not her favorite time. All of her friends, and the town are trying to match her up with someone to make her holidays all covered in glitter.
Kirk was best friends with Gina’s brother and she remembers a little idol worship when she was a kid. There is definitely some chemistry between these two. While one grew up in a loving family the other in the house from hell, they both are kindred souls.
The town is a hoot at this match making thing. Kirk is not thinking of Gina as a little sister. They each have a bit of a mystery surrounding themselves.
January 3, 2023
I received an advanced reader copy to leave an honest review of this book. I have read most of Jennifer Bernard's works and thoroughly enjoy them. This is book 3 in the series and can be read out of order. The book flows well, has a good plot with lots of romance thrown in.
This book follows Gina Moretti (who you would meet in the previous books) and Kirk who was best friends with Gina's brother growing up. Kirk left as soon as he could after high school to set out to prove himself. He never came back to Lake Bittersweet until he needed to recover from an accident and media spotlight. When he sees Gina again for the first time, he doesn't recognize the woman she has grown into but is definitely attracted to her. The attraction is there for both from the start and them having grown up together gives them an advantage. However there are a lot of other factors that hinder them. Gina has lingering issues from her Olympic coach when she was very young and impressionable. Kirk has issues from basically being abandoned by his family. Plus throw in unknown family members, stalkers and the ever present older brothers and mother and you have a recipe for pure chaos.
Overall a great book. Fun and fast read. You will love the romance and the humor in the book.
This book follows Gina Moretti (who you would meet in the previous books) and Kirk who was best friends with Gina's brother growing up. Kirk left as soon as he could after high school to set out to prove himself. He never came back to Lake Bittersweet until he needed to recover from an accident and media spotlight. When he sees Gina again for the first time, he doesn't recognize the woman she has grown into but is definitely attracted to her. The attraction is there for both from the start and them having grown up together gives them an advantage. However there are a lot of other factors that hinder them. Gina has lingering issues from her Olympic coach when she was very young and impressionable. Kirk has issues from basically being abandoned by his family. Plus throw in unknown family members, stalkers and the ever present older brothers and mother and you have a recipe for pure chaos.
Overall a great book. Fun and fast read. You will love the romance and the humor in the book.
January 4, 2023
Gina Moretti is lucky to have great family and friends, even if they are a bit overly involved in her personal life. She’s had horrible luck with guys, especially at Christmas. Her friends and family have decided that this year is different and she deserves someone special. So, out of an abundance of love, they have decided to set her up with the perfect guy, kicking off what affectionately becomes known as the “Gina-stakes.” Kirk grew up in Lake Bittersweet, but his homelife stunk so he spent all his time with the Morettis. When he left, he had no plans to return, but now a bona fide hero and celebrity, an unexpected social media message brings him back to Lake Bittersweet and face-to-face with his best friend’s little sister. Will they both overcome the baggage from their pasts to find a future together?
Unexpected twists and lots of Jennifer Bernard’s trademark humor make THE SETUP, the third in her Lake Bittersweet series, a fun read that will have you losing track of time once you start (yes, it can be read as a stand novel-alone!).
Thanks to the publisher for the chance to read an advanced copy. All opinions are my own and freely given.
#TheSetup #JenniferBernard #LakeBittersweet
Unexpected twists and lots of Jennifer Bernard’s trademark humor make THE SETUP, the third in her Lake Bittersweet series, a fun read that will have you losing track of time once you start (yes, it can be read as a stand novel-alone!).
Thanks to the publisher for the chance to read an advanced copy. All opinions are my own and freely given.
#TheSetup #JenniferBernard #LakeBittersweet
December 23, 2022
I really enjoyed this book for the characters, the plot, the steam between Gina and Kirk, and the small town events described. If you are looking for a holiday themed book with lovable characters, family drama, a little mystery, and some romance, I highly recommend this book.
Gina's past keeps her from moving forward and the town of Lake Bittersweet are trying to help her find "the one" with this year's Gina-stakes. Kirk, who grew up in Lake Bittersweet, left town to get away from his father and never looked back. That is until his sister ask him to meet her there. He figures its a great idea because it allows him to get away from his last heroic event and get some piece and quiet. The first person he sees when he gets to Lake Bittersweet is Gina and she has grown into a woman, not at all like the little sister of his best friends that he remembers. Kirk feels sparks right away and decides he wants to spend more time with Gina. Unfortunately, both have a past they need to work through before they can be happy and there might be stalker lurking in the woods.
I received this book as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gina's past keeps her from moving forward and the town of Lake Bittersweet are trying to help her find "the one" with this year's Gina-stakes. Kirk, who grew up in Lake Bittersweet, left town to get away from his father and never looked back. That is until his sister ask him to meet her there. He figures its a great idea because it allows him to get away from his last heroic event and get some piece and quiet. The first person he sees when he gets to Lake Bittersweet is Gina and she has grown into a woman, not at all like the little sister of his best friends that he remembers. Kirk feels sparks right away and decides he wants to spend more time with Gina. Unfortunately, both have a past they need to work through before they can be happy and there might be stalker lurking in the woods.
I received this book as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2022
A totally fun read with Bernard's emotional and suspenseful touches throughout.
Gina Moretti is passionate, feisty, and full of spirit. I loved her character, her family, and especially her and Kirk together. For everything Gina has been through in her life, she is full of spunk and super sassy. The perfect partner for a hero like Kirk, although don't let Kirk hear you call him that - LOL.
Kirk Williams came back to Lake Bittersweet after his last hero save to mend what he didn't expect was to run into Gina Moretti, his best friend's little sister. She was all grown up and gorgeous and he couldn't take his eyes off of her. However, Gina was currently in the middle of a date when he first laid eyes on her and it just happened to be one date in the potential of many. The entire town was in on setting Gina up and it didn't take long before Kirk wanted to be the only one she was dating.
Gina and Kirk were a ton of fun to read, surrounded by a great cast of characters. Just enough emotion and suspense to add to this wonderful story.
Gina Moretti is passionate, feisty, and full of spirit. I loved her character, her family, and especially her and Kirk together. For everything Gina has been through in her life, she is full of spunk and super sassy. The perfect partner for a hero like Kirk, although don't let Kirk hear you call him that - LOL.
Kirk Williams came back to Lake Bittersweet after his last hero save to mend what he didn't expect was to run into Gina Moretti, his best friend's little sister. She was all grown up and gorgeous and he couldn't take his eyes off of her. However, Gina was currently in the middle of a date when he first laid eyes on her and it just happened to be one date in the potential of many. The entire town was in on setting Gina up and it didn't take long before Kirk wanted to be the only one she was dating.
Gina and Kirk were a ton of fun to read, surrounded by a great cast of characters. Just enough emotion and suspense to add to this wonderful story.
December 26, 2022
Two Passionate People Made For Each Other.
This was an interesting story about two people who literally grew up together, but interestingly enough, there was no secret crush brewing in their youth. I found this story to be a refreshing take on a boy – Kirk, who grew up in a bad family situation but found a second family in the Moretti clan. Then there’s Gina, growing up with this crazy family and all those brothers, and then Kirk, and she has to really work hard to be seen and heard sometimes. Gina is a very strong woman who isn’t afraid to be herself. I love her self-confidence and how she owns her self-worth and won’t settle for a man that isn’t worthy of her time. The way that these two reconnected was interesting and how their respect and passion for each other grew more and more every day was fun to read about. I chuckled every time Gina made the comment that she really needs to read Kirk’s book. That girl is funny. This is a great story about family, second chances, and believing in oneself.
This was an interesting story about two people who literally grew up together, but interestingly enough, there was no secret crush brewing in their youth. I found this story to be a refreshing take on a boy – Kirk, who grew up in a bad family situation but found a second family in the Moretti clan. Then there’s Gina, growing up with this crazy family and all those brothers, and then Kirk, and she has to really work hard to be seen and heard sometimes. Gina is a very strong woman who isn’t afraid to be herself. I love her self-confidence and how she owns her self-worth and won’t settle for a man that isn’t worthy of her time. The way that these two reconnected was interesting and how their respect and passion for each other grew more and more every day was fun to read about. I chuckled every time Gina made the comment that she really needs to read Kirk’s book. That girl is funny. This is a great story about family, second chances, and believing in oneself.
December 26, 2022
What a beautifully written holiday romance! There were crazy antics, hot smexy times, a wild family, intrigue and a little bit of angst. All of this added up to make a fun story. I loved getting to know Kirk and Gina. I love watching them fall in love. Gina's bad dates and everyone thinking they had the perfect winner was just the icing on the cake.
Gina was a great head strong character who knew how to hold her own. I hated how she looked down on herself because of a bad experience that could have happened to anyone. I'm glad she shared with Kirk and tried to move past it. Kirk was an interesting character. Always in the right place at the right time. He didn't have the greatest childhood but the Moretti family was there for him. I love that this book was set during the holidays. It added that uplifting spirit the holidays give off and made this book even more whimsical. Definitely one to pick up if you wanna laugh and smile.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
Gina was a great head strong character who knew how to hold her own. I hated how she looked down on herself because of a bad experience that could have happened to anyone. I'm glad she shared with Kirk and tried to move past it. Kirk was an interesting character. Always in the right place at the right time. He didn't have the greatest childhood but the Moretti family was there for him. I love that this book was set during the holidays. It added that uplifting spirit the holidays give off and made this book even more whimsical. Definitely one to pick up if you wanna laugh and smile.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
January 1, 2023
This is a brother's best friend turned hero who returns home to get a break. I don't want to give anything away. Gina is trying to take hold of her life by conquering her demons. However the town seems to think they need to set it up with someone. At the end brother knows best. She wasn't expecting Rick to be at the right place at the right time and help her. This was a great story of family and friends healing. There is a lot of story in this book and I ended up rating at 4 stars but it really was about 3.5. It is so worth this read. I rated it a little bit lower only because there was so much back story that I felt the connection between Gina and Rick got lost sometimes by the external storyline then just the two of them. The only reason is that Ms. Bernard is such a great writer that she could bridge that gap of Rick being so gone for so long. Balance it with everything else that they worked out, because of this she was still able write a really good love story. This is my honest review for a book I volunteered for read
January 5, 2023
Love this book! The Moretti family is amazing and maybe even a bit annoying (to each other) at times. Gina loves her family and the support of the small town she lives in, although at times having everyone know everything about you is a bit much. Kirk left town as soon as he could but ends up coming back to take a break from life in the limelight and rehab from an injury. He and Gina come face to face, she's the little sister of his best friend, however, she's all grown up now. The town is trying to find "the one" for Gina, there may not be a need for setups because there's an attraction between Kirk and Gina that can't be denied. They each have a past to overcome and there's even some mystery with Kirk's family, but together can they overcome all and find their happily ever after? I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 30, 2022
Gina Moretti I knew was going to be a tough one. She is the youngest in a plethora of brothers. Growing up, she had to scrape her way for everything. Her parents had their hands full with all those boys but Gina found a passion for something none of the boys had. Her Olympic dreams were ahead of her. She also had a brother in name only with Kirk Williams. Kirk was always at her house until he wasn’t anymore. Kirk escaped the family life he never wanted by enlisting. His military career was more than he ever dreamed and it made him a hero. Even though he never looked for that.
Their lives took very different directions but when Kirk comes back home, it’s like they were never apart. I loved this book for many reasons. Gina is a no nonsense kind of girl. What you see is really what you get. She has her secrets like anyone else but that’s only for her. Her love for her sport has never waned. Her dedication to her town and the people in it is unrivaled.
Kirk is much the same. His hero status is well earned. And he continues to act heroically. His desire to be just like any one else is what gets him into situations where he has to be more than. His attraction to Gina is pure and I love that.
The lake Bittersweet series is quickly becoming my favorite of Ms Bernard’s series. But then again, I say that about all her series.
Their lives took very different directions but when Kirk comes back home, it’s like they were never apart. I loved this book for many reasons. Gina is a no nonsense kind of girl. What you see is really what you get. She has her secrets like anyone else but that’s only for her. Her love for her sport has never waned. Her dedication to her town and the people in it is unrivaled.
Kirk is much the same. His hero status is well earned. And he continues to act heroically. His desire to be just like any one else is what gets him into situations where he has to be more than. His attraction to Gina is pure and I love that.
The lake Bittersweet series is quickly becoming my favorite of Ms Bernard’s series. But then again, I say that about all her series.
December 27, 2022
Gina Moretti has very bad luck with relationships. Her family has decided they need to set her up with as many guys as they can until one actually works for her. Gina gave up a long time ago, but doesn't want to hurt their feelings.
Rick Williams pretty much grew up with the Moretti kids. He's best friends with her brothers, but he's always considered Gina as a little sister. That is until he returns back home to get away from his unwanted popularity! Things have changed when he realizes Gina is not a little girl anymore, and Gina realizes she's still uncomfortable around Rick, but not because he used to tease her just like her brothers did!
Cute, funny and delightful!
You won't want to miss this one!
Rick Williams pretty much grew up with the Moretti kids. He's best friends with her brothers, but he's always considered Gina as a little sister. That is until he returns back home to get away from his unwanted popularity! Things have changed when he realizes Gina is not a little girl anymore, and Gina realizes she's still uncomfortable around Rick, but not because he used to tease her just like her brothers did!
Cute, funny and delightful!
You won't want to miss this one!
December 27, 2022
I love reading about Lake Bittersweet – it’s a great town and one I’d love to visit. Or live in. What I loved about this book: Gina’s story is so believable. I had all the “feels” as she was having and experiencing them. It’s tough trying to keep up, and be seen, in a family of brothers and she has a “big” personality to show for it. But she has her...moments of self-doubt that will break your heart. Or want to break heads!
And Kirk – you’ll read about the whole “hero thing” – has his own demons to struggle with. He is such a great guy, imho, and the relationship with Gina? Priceless!
Family and friends throw lots of monkey wrenches into their journey, with Gina’s “setups” topping the list. Great story that delivers warm hugs, funny lines, and a great couple.
And Kirk – you’ll read about the whole “hero thing” – has his own demons to struggle with. He is such a great guy, imho, and the relationship with Gina? Priceless!
Family and friends throw lots of monkey wrenches into their journey, with Gina’s “setups” topping the list. Great story that delivers warm hugs, funny lines, and a great couple.
January 1, 2023
Four and a half stars
The Setup is the third in Jennifer Bernard’s Lake Bittersweet series, and is magnificent.
Gina Moretti is the only daughter in a big Italian family with lots of brothers. She’s always known how to keep up, how to fend for herself while managing not to be smothered under their loving care. And Kirk Williams is almost like another one of those siblings. Always a part of the landscape until he returns to Lake Bittersweet years later and it’s quite clear to them both that they’re not in the least related, nor do they want to be…. Except in the most important of ways…
Jennifer Bernard’s writing is warm and buoyant, and Lake Bittersweet and its residents are brought vividly to life. She also writes Gina and Kirk and their challenges gently and kindly, giving them space to sort themselves out, and their friends and families room to both lovingly interfere as well as acknowledge them as capable of making the best choices for themselves.
This series is a delight.
The Setup is the third in Jennifer Bernard’s Lake Bittersweet series, and is magnificent.
Gina Moretti is the only daughter in a big Italian family with lots of brothers. She’s always known how to keep up, how to fend for herself while managing not to be smothered under their loving care. And Kirk Williams is almost like another one of those siblings. Always a part of the landscape until he returns to Lake Bittersweet years later and it’s quite clear to them both that they’re not in the least related, nor do they want to be…. Except in the most important of ways…
Jennifer Bernard’s writing is warm and buoyant, and Lake Bittersweet and its residents are brought vividly to life. She also writes Gina and Kirk and their challenges gently and kindly, giving them space to sort themselves out, and their friends and families room to both lovingly interfere as well as acknowledge them as capable of making the best choices for themselves.
This series is a delight.
January 6, 2023
Received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
I do love a best friend's brother romance and Bernard put together a great story here. When Kirk comes back home to hide from some media attention and recover from a broken leg, he isn't expecting Gina to be all grown up. The little sister from the family that took him in is all grown up now and facing quite the conundrum of having everyone in town try to set her up (and on some truly spectacularly bad dates).
I enjoyed watching these two come together and the added benefit of the family elements within the story. Add in just a touch of intrigue and spice and it's a good time all around. I do wish we had a little more of Kirk with the other Moretti's but all in all, a fun holiday read.
I do love a best friend's brother romance and Bernard put together a great story here. When Kirk comes back home to hide from some media attention and recover from a broken leg, he isn't expecting Gina to be all grown up. The little sister from the family that took him in is all grown up now and facing quite the conundrum of having everyone in town try to set her up (and on some truly spectacularly bad dates).
I enjoyed watching these two come together and the added benefit of the family elements within the story. Add in just a touch of intrigue and spice and it's a good time all around. I do wish we had a little more of Kirk with the other Moretti's but all in all, a fun holiday read.
December 23, 2022
The Setup is a cute read. I really liked this one. You are back in Lake Bittersweet and this is Gina's book. Gina hasn't had an amazing holiday season in a while when it comes to relationships. This is all about setting Gina up to find the one. I love the twist and turns that come with this one as Gina is reunited with her brothers old friend Kirk. Kirk is back in his hometown to recover from his injuries. Surprises await Kirk and you will just love every one of them. I love the chemistry between Gina and Kirk. This is a sweet read that you will fall in love with. I cannot wait for more to come in the Lake Bittersweet series. I love all these sweet reads with a twist. Go one click this now.
December 27, 2022
Another wonderful trip to Lake Bittersweet. I loved both Gina and Kirk, they were great as friends and even better as a couple. Watching them fall for each other after knowing one another back when they were younger was so fun. Also watching both of them try to work through traumas they both suffered (separately) as children and teenagers and become the great people they are, individually and as a couple. What I loved is that they both worked through their traumas together but they did it on their own. And it made them appreciative of one another.
And I can not wait for Bliss and Grainger’s story next!
And I can not wait for Bliss and Grainger’s story next!
December 27, 2022
A*R*C for honest review with no compensation
The Setup is book 3 in the Lake Bittersweet series by Jennifer Bernard. Loving this series!!
Gina Moretti dislikes the holidays thanks to her romance disasters. Her friends and towns people have decided it’s time for Gina – stakes…finding her perfect person. When yet another date goes bad someone from the restaurant bar sends her a drink…who turns out to be her brother‘s best friend, Kirk Williams and her teenage crush.
Holiday setups, moving forward, humorous, laying low, chemistry and more…read on to see if they disspell the so called curse of setups or find that they are the perfect setup!!
The Setup is book 3 in the Lake Bittersweet series by Jennifer Bernard. Loving this series!!
Gina Moretti dislikes the holidays thanks to her romance disasters. Her friends and towns people have decided it’s time for Gina – stakes…finding her perfect person. When yet another date goes bad someone from the restaurant bar sends her a drink…who turns out to be her brother‘s best friend, Kirk Williams and her teenage crush.
Holiday setups, moving forward, humorous, laying low, chemistry and more…read on to see if they disspell the so called curse of setups or find that they are the perfect setup!!
January 4, 2023
I liked returning to Lake Bittersweet for this book. The story grabbed my attention as it felt like fate had brought Gina and Kirk back together. There was also a lot of anticipation and foreshadowing of events to come that kept me spellbound.
The Gina-stakes was a lot of fun for the reader although not as much fun perhaps for Gina. I could not help laughing over the events and how everyone was getting into it.
I really liked how Kirk and Gina brought out the best in each other and gained strength together. Kirk found his home and family. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
The Gina-stakes was a lot of fun for the reader although not as much fun perhaps for Gina. I could not help laughing over the events and how everyone was getting into it.
I really liked how Kirk and Gina brought out the best in each other and gained strength together. Kirk found his home and family. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
January 5, 2023
This was a sweet story of past heartbreak and pain; of growth, conquering demons and moving forward with added dashes of humor, memories and chemistry that just invite you in and leave you with a smile. I loved the premise of the TOWN as well as the Moretti Family competing in the Gina-stakes. This poor girl has had her fair share of bad relationships and worse dates, I just wanted her to find her happiness. With Kirk's connection to the town and to the family, it made his coming home to heal and find his sister seamlessly fit into the story. The secondary characters made this engaging and enjoyable. I need more of Lake Bittersweet!
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