Review: Blind Dates, Bridesmaids and Other Disasters by Aspen Hadley

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

  

 

Cedar Fort print book

Cedar Fort e-book

About the Book

On the surface, Rachel Stevens's life looks perfect. 

One great job, two awesome roommates, and a supportive family. But when her roommate Hannah announces her engagement, Rachel sees eternal singleness and innumerable cats in her future. When the bride-to-be issues a challenge--go on six blind dates and before the "I do's" --Rachel isn't convinced her imagined future is that bad in comparison. The dates are predictably horrible and the situation further complicated by the return of James, Rachel's first, long-lost love. James says he is over her . . . but is Rachel over him?

My Review

This was a fun read! Rachel has a series of incredibly ridiculous blind dates, all witnessed by her former fiancé. I was anxious for the first half of the book for her to connect with James in a deeper way, but the focus was on her attempts to find someone else, which were admittedly full of humor. The pace and depth of the book increased as Rachel and James confront their lingering romantic feelings for each other, exploring regrets, forgiveness, and if a second chance is possible. I enjoy this author's writing style and look forward to reading more!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

A Valentine's Day Return by Brenda Minton

My rating: 2 stars / It was okay

About the Book

They thought love was in their past…
But could it be their future?

After completing rehab, Mark Rivers returns to his hometown to make amends with his ex-wife, Kylie, and their daughter. But he doesn’t expect to stick around beyond seeking her forgiveness. So when helping Kylie run her coffee shop after a health crisis draws them closer together, Mark is forced to decide—a career in Nashville or a second chance with the family he thought he’d lost forever…

My Review

I was so excited to read a Valentine's themed book, and doesn't this cover look sweet? The main characters Mark and Kylie have some rough history, and I wonder if it was touched on in the previous book (which I haven't read). The bad choices Mark made over the years of their marriage while under the influence of alcohol are rehashed repeatedly, as well as his angst and regret over them. Kylie's struggle to trust him despite her forgiveness is also repetitious and progress is very slow as their thoughts about the situation they are now in continue to waffle back and forth, which led to my losing interest. They are both devoted to the adorable Junie who is portrayed a few years more mature than the kindergarten age she is, I think she speaks and behaves more like a second grader. This story of redemption and hard-won forgiveness will be enjoyed by others but it was a miss for me.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Sunset Ridge series