Review: Is It Any Wonder by Courtney Walsh

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

 

About the Book

Twelve years ago, Cody Boggs and Louisa Chambers made a pact that no matter where their lives took them, they’d return to Nantucket Island’s Brant Point Lighthouse on July 30, their shared golden birthday, and continue their tradition of exchanging birthday wishes. But that was before a tragic accident upended both of their lives, irrevocably pulling them apart.

Their worlds collide just months before that particular day when Louisa’s fledgling event planning company is hired by the local Coast Guard station, where she discovers Cody has recently returned to the island as the second in command. As they plan a regatta fundraiser, hoping to promote positive PR in the community, neither can deny the fireworks each encounter ignites. But working together also brings up memories of the day Cody’s father died, revealing secrets that have Cody and Louisa questioning everything they thought they knew and felt about their families and each other.

My Review

Man, Cody and Louisa have been through the wringer! They have a practically enchanted childhood, but as they grow older and relationships get complicated, tragedy strikes, leaving behind a plethora of grief, guilt, shame, blame, and two families full of pain. I loved the healing journey that took place in this story, and it felt realistic in that it didn't come easy or all at once. The characters had to work for it and choose it. I loved Louisa's spirit and Cody's genuine adoration of her beneath his hurt. There is plenty of angst, but also humor and sweet reconciliation. Maggie, the elderly friend of both families, was full of personality and showed how Louisa is full of compassionate service and Cody cares more than he lets on. Their parents and the history in their pasts brings complications to Louisa and Cody's future, and the mystery of what happened all those years ago is slowly peeled back as the book progresses. Another story with all the feels from a favorite author!

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.

Nantucket Love Story series

 

 

Review: Everything's Coming Up Rosie by Courtney Walsh

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

About the Book

Sometimes what you think you want and what you actually want turn out to be different things . . .

Rosie Waterman has one to become a working actor. But lately, that hasn't been working out. When she loses her apartment and her job on the same day, she does what she always does--puts herself out there, ready to find the next big thing. But a trip home makes her realize that while she's been struggling to make this dream come true, all her friends have become real adults with careers and weddings and babies on the way. Rosie's been at this for years, and she has nothing to show for it. But how does she simply let go of her dream?

When she's offered a job as the director of a regional theatre's production of Cinderella, she jumps at the chance--even though she's only directed in college and the job is in Door County, Wisconsin, and not in New York. She has no other offers, and at least she'll be getting paid to do something theatrical. But when she arrives, she quickly realizes that the "regional theatre" is actually in a retirement community, and the "actors" are actually senior citizens with no acting experience whatsoever.

Working on the show presents new challenges, forcing Rosie to learn how to step up and be the leader this fledgling theatre troupe needs. The more time she spends with her new cast, the more she begins to rethink what it means to dream big, especially when that big dream hasn't turned out to be at all what she thought it would be. It's not at all what she expected, but could it be exactly what she needs?

My Review

The characters in this book feel so authentic. Especially the seniors that Rosie works with in the retirement community- the author skillfully avoided making them caricatures. They added such depth and personality to the book. I loved the journey that Rosie goes on- from struggle and disappointment to learning that the unexpected paths can often be the most rewarding when we put in 100% effort. While there are elements of women's fiction it's not the kind that turns me off- I felt uplifted and inspired while also highly entertained with humor and a romance that didn't take the backseat. I wasn't sure what to expect going into this book but like Rosie's experience, it turned out to be just what I needed!

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.

More from Courtney Walsh

 

 

 

Review: The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

 

About the Book

A near-death experience catapults workaholic junior editor Kelsey Worthington into changing her life--one yes at a time.

Kelsey Worthington always dreamed of being a writer, but she's settled into a routine of helping other people tell their stories in her job as a junior editor. She doesn't go outside of her comfort zone. Her relationships are safe. Her job is secure. Her existence is stable. And she's great with that.

And then, the accident.

While she's in the hospital overnight, she meets an older woman named Georgina Tate--a glass-ceiling-shattering, wildly successful businesswoman. Georgina sacrificed everything to become the woman she is today, but now, with a pair of failing kidneys and only a handful of months left to live, Georgina is forced to come face-to-face with her regrets. Kelsey is forced to reckon with her own list of "things I'll do someday," and she starts to ask a simple but life-changing What if I said yes to all the things I normally say no to? And The Yes Plan is born.

It takes some convincing, but Georgina finally agrees to go along with Kelsey on her Summer of Yes adventures. The two of them set off to see what might be out there waiting for them if they simply open themselves up to it. Together, they say yes to whatever comes their way--a whole day being tourists in their own New York City, dinner with strangers, a convertible that is far from practical but so much fun. But when Kelsey springs a surprise visit to Georgina's son Hayden and Georgina's ex-husband (who is not so much of an ex), the older woman is less than thrilled. But this is where the true journey begins.

Two stories of love, forgiveness, regret, romance, and finding a way to live a fearless life intertwine as these two women make an indelible impression on each other. And it all starts with a simple "yes."

My Review

This book really got me thinking. The themes of priority and how saying yes or no shapes our lives are so important. I'm at a point in my life where I'm re-evaluating as I transition to a new career, and so grateful for new beginnings. Kelsey and Georgina are vibrant characters and their relationship seems unlikely, but they both push each other and support each other during their individual times of struggle, reconciliation, and self-evaluation. I didn't necessarily connect to their issues, but I can see how many in our society would, especially with the prevalent messaging that is so popular to prioritize career and self over family. I enjoyed their banter and also Kelsey's opportunity for romance. A heartwarming story!

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.

More from Courtney Walsh

 

  

Review: The Cupid Chronicles by Courtney Walsh

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

About the Book

Some love stories are written . . . this one is magically delivered.

Iris Ellington isn’t looking for love. Not even a little bit. With a long list of failed relationships behind her, she’s decided to reinvent herself as a person who doesn’t fall head over heels on the first date.

New town, new job, new Iris.

But someone—or something—has other plans.

When her neighbor’s newspaper lands in front of her door, Iris has no choice but to return it. And when she does, she comes face to face with a ridiculously handsome but very grumpy chef who all but slams the door in her face.

Matteo Morgan just wants to be left alone. He’s loved and lost and has zero interest in ever doing that again. Which is why it makes no sense that The Serendipity’s magical newspaper has decided to turn him into an unwilling Cupid. Matchmaking is hardly in his wheelhouse.

And yet, for the last three years, that’s exactly what he’s done. And he’s always done it alone.

Until now.

When the newspaper pulls his bubbly neighbor into its matchmaking schemes, Matteo has no choice but to go along with it, hoping that maybe—finally—he can pass Cupid’s bow and arrow on to her.

Thrown together by fate, they must navigate the newspaper's increasingly absurd demands while trying to resist the undeniable spark between them.

Will Iris melt the ice around Matteo's heart and embrace the magic? Or will Matteo scare her off with his grumpy demeanor and ruin any chance of happiness? In a building where anything is possible, Iris and Matteo might just find that the greatest magic of all is finding love when they least expect it.

The Cupid Chronicles is a standalone book in the Only Magic in the Building series. These closed door, whimsical romance books are all set in the same historic building, which has a habit of playing matchmaker with its residents. There are light magical elements, but no spells, shifters, or dark magic of any kind.

My Review

This has been such a fun series to read! Unexplainable phenomena occur in The Serendipity, an historic apartment building full of whimsical character. Matteo is privately wallowing in his grief, while running his successful restaurant and fulfilling the "requests" from the building's enchanted and sassy newspaper. Iris is the newest resident, all too aware of her relationship flaws and determined to overcome them. She's quirky and lovable, a contrast to brooding Matteo, compelled to join forces to come to the aid of other residents. Their personal struggles create a tension as they come to know and appreciate each other, attraction building and chemistry developing. Matteo's secret he holds close is heartbreaking, and it brought tears to my eyes as he reconciled with his loss in order to move ahead with his future. The author struck a wonderful balance with her vibrant characters, humor, engaging plot, sweet romance, and themes that bring depth to the story.

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.

 

Only Magic in the Building series

 




 

 

 

Review: Christmas With a Crank by Courtney Walsh

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

About the Book

A second chance with your first crush.

Doesn’t happen often.

For Liam Fisher, that first crush was his next door neighbor, Olive Witherby.

Childhood was lazy summers, treehouse stargazing, and endless games of hide and seek at Pine Creek, the Christmas tree farm that’s been in Liam’s family for generations.

When Liam’s family moves away, Liam and Olive say goodbye the only way they know how— with a fumbling first kiss neither of them will ever forget.

Even though twelve-year olds’ promises of keeping in touch feel eternal, time and distance eventually make Olive and Liam practically strangers.

Twenty years later, Liam’s parents announce they’re retiring and selling the tree farm.

Twenty years later, Pine Creek is the last place grown-up Liam wants to be. Inherit this legacy? Not on your life.

And twenty years later, grown-up Olive is stuck.

Her work life is a lot like her love life—floundering. After a humiliating business failure, loads of debt, and one too many laughable first dates, she’s in no hurry to put herself out there again, in business or in romance.

When Olive is hired by Liam’s parents to rekindle the lost magic of the farm one final time before it’s sold, she sets out to make this the last, best Pine Creek Christmas, for the town and for a very cranky, not-so-talkative, surprisingly hot Liam.

Part of her mission? Convince the crank to fall in love with Christmas.

The other part? Not fall head over heels in the process.

Christmas With a Crank is a grumpy/sunshine, childhood crush, opposites attract romance with plenty of sizzle but none of the steam.

My Review

This author's books never disappoint! I love the natural and deep way we get to know Liam and Olive and connect with their emotions. Their charmed childhood relationship developed complications as they became older, families grew apart, and romantic rivals interfered. It was alternately fun and frustrating as Olive helps Liam break out of his grumpy self, misunderstandings and regrets are revealed, and their simmering attraction blossoms into a lovely romance with a sweet childhood friendship as a foundation. It was all too easy to fall in love with the tree farm and Olive's creative ideas to give it one last glory season. This is a story I'll be reading again in the future!

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.

Don't miss the other Christmas-themed books by Courtney Walsh!

 

 

 

Review: My Lucky Charm by Courtney Walsh

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

A humiliating break-up leads to an impulsive New Year’s Kiss with a complete stranger.
What could possibly go wrong?

It’s no secret that I love life. And Dr Pepper. But also, I love a challenge. . .

So when the coach of the Chicago Comets gives me the opportunity to help their star player, newly traded to their team, acclimate to life in Chicago, I'm all in.

I have to be. After my last job went up in flames, I have something to prove.

It turns out that the player, Grayson Hawke, is the rudest, most off-putting, reclusive guy I’ve ever met.

It also turns out that he is the beautiful stranger I kissed on New Year’s Eve.

I can do this job. I can do this job. I can do this job.

And I can. Really well.

I can make Gray’s life easier, show him all the reasons to fall in love with this city, and in the process, hopefully completely forget that the amazing kiss ever happened.

How hard can it be? We’re total opposites anyway.

I love people . . . and all their stories. Gray loves hockey . . . and nothing else.

I love to talk. Gray only stares.

I’m happy-go-lucky. Gray’s all work and no play.

There’s just one problem. The more time I spend with Grayson Hawke, the more I start to see that underneath his bristly, standoffish exterior, he’s nothing like the man everyone thinks he is.

And suddenly, all the reasons for keeping my distance, staying professional, and not falling for someone again. . . are impossible to remember. My Lucky Charm is a grumpy/sunshine, sweet hockey romance with all of the sizzle but none of the steam. It's the second in the Holidays with Hart series, but My Lucky Charm can be read as a stand alone.

My Review

Oh my heart! I loved this hockey romance with all-the-feels, great banter, characters with depth, and romance with chemistry! I know that hockey has become a popular theme lately in the sweet romance genre, and Courtney Walsh caught that wave early on, setting the bar for those to follow. Her characters are vibrant and the story plays like a movie in my head- but better than any I've seen lately! Grayson is one tough nut, but we get to see the why as his layers are peeled back. Eloise is up for the challenge, and I loved her optimistic cheerfulness that was a little naive but never annoying. The little random ways Grayson and Eloise connect with each other are fun and endearing. The sense of family- both related and found- brought a foundation of belonging and loyalty, even for those who find themselves floundering. For sports fans and non-sports fans alike, the hockey element brought intensity, drive, and a dynamic setting without taking over the romance and relationship focus. The author balanced it perfectly and hit that sweet spot. This is a series I plan to re-read, and I can't wait for 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.

Don't miss the first book in the Holidays With Hart series . . .

Review: Can't Help Falling by Courtney Walsh

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Sometimes all it takes to start a fire is a single match. . .

Owen Larrabee is not my soulmate.

He wasn't when I confessed my love to him on his wedding day, and he isn't now. I should probably say that I wasn't the bride when that happened. I don't have the best timing.

He’s got a temper, he's moody, and he has a history of being misunderstood and making big mistakes.

I, on the other hand, make pumpkin cupcakes, spend my Friday nights curled up with a beloved romance novel and long to be kissed in the rain.

Owen is my best friend’s older, off-limits brother and the only boy I ever thought I loved. Which is laughable because he only ever saw me as his kid sister’s dorky friend.

But that was a long time ago. And I’m over him.

Mostly.

Until he comes back to Harvest Hollow like some kind of hero, showing up just in time to pull me out of my burning house and make me feel all the things I told myself I’d never feel again.

But I have questions. Why is Owen back? And does he remember our secret friendship or the day I’ve spent the last eight years trying to forget?

I know better than to get hung up on Owen again. Especially now, when he’s sworn off relationships and thinks romance is a farce. And I’m something of an expert—at least to the people who listen to my podcast, The Hopeful Romantic.

Never mind that nobody would guess their local bookshop owner is the one doling out popular weekly relationship advice.

Never mind that I’m basing all that advice on the hundreds, (thousands?) of romance novels I’ve read over the years and not on personal experience.

And especially never mind that Owen is making me question everything I believe about all of it.

Can’t Help Falling is a best friend’s brother, childhood crush, opposites attract sweet rom-com with plenty of sizzle but none of the steam.

My Review

I absolutely loved this book full of humor and heart! This author always brings the feels for me, even in her more light-hearted plots. So much to love here- Unrequited love, best friend's brother, friends to more, bookstore owner, firefighter, secret identity! I loved being able to read Owen's perspective as he comes home and faces his past, unexpectedly but inevitably falling for Emmy, despite her (hilarious) awkwardness and attempts at avoidance. He is so compassionate to her and shows through his actions and words that he understands and validates her feelings from losing her home. The small town setting is so fun, and the friends and family were vibrant and had depth as they root for their new favorite (potential) couple. Owen grows and softens as he is influenced by Emmy's views on romance and love, while he balances out her fictional romance knowledge with some real-life loving that is less about show and more about intention. I just loved their angst and chemistry!

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.

The Sweater Weather multi-author series . . .

(click photo or here to go to the books!)