Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Sweet contemporary HEA
3.5stars
This was an engaging book with angst, humour and drama. It is an easy read and the characters are likeable. At times I felt the story was missing something but that could have just been me. The writing did not lack in description and the romance was slow burn. Recommend for lovers of sweet romance stories.
The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Imagine, everything you do and live for, is based on a lie. The need to portray it, to protect it, to believe it, is vital. The daily fear your secret will be found, or worse…told! Shared with the world and all you every wanted to do was bury it deep. It would be an exhausting life full of fear and stress. Then imagine, when you THINK you have it under control, your nightmare becomes a reality and someone finds out. Can you trust her? Can you believe she will follow through with her word and keep it safe? You know you can’t, because it’s only a matter of time before your betrayed. Yet, something inside yearns for something real and honest and true. So what will you do?
Find out what Nathan does, in “The lie that binds.” The suspense, the adrenaline, the teenage angst. Take a ride through this wild journey with him and Holly. You won’t regret it!
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia is a sweet contemporary romance with a western element, angst, drama, and animal rescue. Being the first book that I have read by Ms. Garcia I didn’t know what to expect from her work- but the blurb intrigued me and seemed to promise something different to what I had been reading of late- so of course I had to buy a copy to find out what happens.
Paige Liston absolutely loves her job as a curator at a popular art gallery. She takes her job very seriously and is always on the lookout for artists to add to the gallery’s collection. So when she stumbles on a striking painting that really moves her, she is determined to hunt down the artist and sign him to the gallery. But the artist isn’t going to be the easy assignment she thought- especially with the instant connection and chemistry she that begins brewing. Keeping things professional is going to test her work ethics to the core- not to mention having to endure the wilds of Montana- what more does this city loving woman need to endure to win her artist? You will really need to read all the interesting developments for yourself….
While I did enjoy the story for the most part, I did feel that the dialogue and character interactions were a little stiff or stilted in parts. It is well written, but the ‘connection’ between the characters, and therefore with me, just didn’t seem to gel. Maybe I was just having an ‘off’ reading day, or maybe the more ‘intense’ stories I have been reading of late have distorted my perspective a little. So, I will wait a few weeks and then go back and reread this story to see if I still feel the same way, or not. The way the blurb read with the artist/art curator element, rescued animals, a gorgeous homestead/ranch in Montana, and everything else should have been enough for this to have earned five stars from me- and believe me, I really wanted to LOVE this book, so I am a little disappointed with myself that I feel this way. Stay tuned for my re-read..
Thank you, Darci Garcia!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 stars
Paige and the Reluctant Artist is a sweet romance. You can tell Darci is passionate about writing through her narrative. The story easy to read and is set with vividly painted words which delight the senses and inspire the imagination for its setting. I would have liked to see the story is told in dual POV which would give the reader that better insight in to all characters. However, that is just my personal preference.
The characters are likable and you can feel their emotional connection. Whilst I enjoyed the story, I was hoping for a little something more to give it a greater impact. Darci does inflect humour and animals into her story giving another dimension.
If sweet romance is your thing, then you will like this story so grab a copy today.
Reviewed by @jennadb
View all my reviews
Let It Be Love by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was a quick read for me. I read it in 3 hours lol. Third person books typically aren’t my favorite but this kept my attention. I love the story line. About a famous girl named Kiki who just wants to be able to be in love behind closed doors. Being in the public eye leaves little to no privacy and this book portrays how that all must be like. Eric is super sweet and super understanding! He’s a mayor of a small town and is in love with a pop star! He’s not one for the cameras and the attention but he will move mountains for JUST KIKI! All around a cute book.
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I can tell you that I was caught off guard by Paige and Mark’s story more than once. Their love story is certainly one that is a slow burn, you know what’s coming, or at the very least, you hope that the end brings all the happiness to them both. I love how this author built up both characters so that the reader is able to connect with them, and understand the choices they make, at least, most of them, and is able to root for them regardless of the hurdles they may encounter.
I hope that this author continues to weave these tales, as I found it very easy to read, and even more difficult to put down. In fact, I devoured this novel in one day! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a sweet, country living type of read. Well done!
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was definitely drawn to this book since it takes place in Helena Montana and I was born and raised just an hour away. It was fun to see the writer’s depiction of Montana and the beauty of the state! We meet Paige a New Yorker who has worked hard to become a respected art curator for a top gallery. She is sent to Montana to meet Mark, a reluctant painter, who she wants to represent. From the moment they meet, the chemistry is electric between them. Mark finally agrees to do the paintings and Paige plans to stay in Montana with him on his horse rescue ranch until they are complete. Unfortunately, Paige has been burned romantically and so has Mark. They have to figure out if they can overcome their pasts to make their future together. I couldn’t put the book down and devoured it in one sitting. The characters are well written and multidimensional. The descriptive language really brings to life the beauty of Montana, the paintings, and the horses. My heart broke when we learned more about their pasts and their separate traumas. The author did an amazing job of pacing in the book and drew you into the story. Overall a very sweet and steamy romance story with some interesting twists. I haven’t read other stories by the author previously, but I will definitely be checking out her other works.
Love is Worth Fighting for by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The story of Krystina and Loukas is full of emotion and what at first seems very much to be a love hate relationship but it truly is deeply felt love and even though it goes through many twists and turns I was left feeling that it truly will stand the test of time. If you have read the previous books in this series you will be happy to know we find out more about the amazing Yiayia and if you haven’t read the other books well, what are you waiting for? Get reading now!! Krystina and Loukas go through a lot especially for such young people but they show us all what we are truly capable of when we are tested and love bonds us.
Love by Design by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
As this series continues I am yet again captivated by the relationships of both friends and family detailed and developing throughout the storyline. You could if you wish read this fun and heartfelt book on its own but I do highly recommend reading this series from the start as there is a storyline threaded through this book that started in the first and I believe will further develop in the 3rd. You won’t want to miss any details.
This book brings us the story of Mia and Nicholas and adds more to the story of the wonderful Yiayia and her life. Wow she is one sassy woman that I’d love to have in my life. Nicholas falls for Mia straight away but boy oh boy does he hate that idea and acts out accordingly. In fact his hostility around her is so strong she is absolutely convinced he hates her. Again there are lots of twists and turns in their story to keep you captivated and wanting more! Bring on book 3 I say!
Someone Exactly Like Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book had me feeling all of the feels! I really couldn’t put the book down once I started. The pace was perfect, allowing me to learn and love the characters. The chemistry was great and I honestly wasn’t expecting to consume this book whole! I read it from cover to cover, hooked from the very start! It was well written with perfect balance between details, steam, and emotional rollercoasters. Will definitely look for more from author!
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Paige and the Reluctant Artist is a delightful story of a successful gallery curator and Mark, a reluctant artist. I enjoyed the New York art gallery aspect as well as the Montana ranch setting. Paige and Mark are an exciting match that, at times, mirrors the different locations of the story. I like the tension between the characters and how the story develops. This book was my first read by this author, and I really enjoyed the story. I like that the story read quickly but did not feel lacking in any aspect. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Love is What You Bake of it by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I truly enjoyed this wonderful read and I can’t wait to read more in this fun, heartfelt series. You are instantly drawn into this strongly bonded family. They may well drive each other completely crazy at times but they are ALWAYS there for each other no matter what. That really resonated with me. This first book brings us the story of Kally and Max who have both been hurt by previous relationships and are very unsure that their futures can actually include a romantic relationship. With lots of twists and turns you are kept captivated by their budding relationship as they navigate lifes possibilities. This book also includes a back story involving Kallys Yiayia that draws you in and I hope it continues in the following books because I need to now more about this sassy lady!
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As far as romance books go this one really knocks it out of the park. While I usually prefer a duel pov this author did a tremendous job keeping my interest with their third person writing style. The cover of the book and synopsis drew me to this wonderful romance right away, and once I started reading it I couldn’t put it down. The character development was perfect, the plot was interesting and sweet, and the overall story was simply perfection. So if your looking for a sweet romance for your next read then pick this one up today.
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia. This was such a good read. Its the story of Paige Lisgon a Art Curator at a fancy Manhattan art gallery. She seems to be on her way to being an up and coming painter. One thing standing in her way is a rancher in Montana who she needs to create some pieces for her gallery. Mark Richards is very happy running his horse ranch, Caramel Ranch in Montana. He sure doesn’t need some city slicker (even if she is beautiful) telling him what he needs to do. When Paige offers him something he can’t refuse she packs up and moves to Montana. Will they be able to work together and both get what they want. Will they end up being able to make a relationship between two total opposites work. Read this fun city girl and country guy romance to find out!
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Although a delightfully predictable romance, there are some surprises thrown in. The author does a good job with character development. Readers are exposed to the art gallery scene in New York City. Readers are also introduced to the rugged west. Animal care is featured heavily in this book.
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
WOW I could not put this book down! I had not read a book by this author before, and I am glad I did because this was one of the best books that I have read in a long time! This book revolves around Paige and Mark. Paige is a curator at an art gallery who has just found her newest client who paints the most magnificent paintings that she has seen in a long time and travels to his home to try and convince him to paint more pieces because she sees the potential. Mark is a man who owns a large estate where he saves horses and leads a semi-normal life kept to himself after suffering a great tragedy when he was younger. When these two collide, SPARKS LITERALLY FLY, and they cannot stay away from one another. I felt as though I was right there with them when I was reading this book! I had to tear myself away from the book so that I could get work done. If you love good wholesome romances, then this is the next great book to read!!
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which had me happily turning the pages. Paige Liston, is a curator at a posh uptown art gallery, and she believes she’s found the next ‘great phenom painter’. However, the artist, Mark Richards lives in Helena, Montana, meaning she will have to leave behind her ultra modern apartment in Manhattan, in order to convince Mark to create pieces for her gallery. Mark is the owner of Carmel Ranch and he rescues horses, and so is not immediately interested in painting for the gallery, until Paige makes him an offer he can’t refuse.
Although the couple have instant chemistry it’s not until they are spending more time together on the Ranch that their relationship develops, but having to navigate life and their careers it’s not guaranteed they will get a HEA. This was a heartwarming romance with two very likeable and relatable main characters in Paige and Mark. Their instant attraction came across in the narrative, and I liked how their relationship developed throughout the story. The setting came alive through the descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in life on the Montana Ranch.
Love is What You Bake of it by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Let It Be Love by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this romance story. This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up by this author. I never hesitate to pick one up. This is a well written story about two people who don’t plan on falling in love. The characters pull you into their story from the start. They have great growth and made the story easy to read. I found them to be connectable and had me coming back for more. They make you part of their story and make you want to know more. This is a fast paced story that is not only hard to put down but entertaining as we. This is a story that you don’t want to miss. A great romance story. I highly recommend this book and this author.
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a sweet romance book with 2 completely loveable characters that worked so well together. Both of them really draw you into the story with their connection. I found it easy to follow their journey and loved watching how they developed.
The Book has quite an easy pace to it. The words seemed to flow naturally and enhanced the story the author was telling. This is an easy book to read and I found it really enjoyable.
Burned by Fire by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ahhhh. I expected just a love story. This was so much more. As a social worker I loved the focus on mental health, especially focused on a male character. Another favorite of mine was how the couple started out as friends. Things usually start in love stories hot and heavy, but these two characters develop beautiful.
This gave me a bit of Chicago Fire feels. Can’t wait to read more in the series!
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Paige is a curator who loves her job. She always felt she had to make herself into someone everyone loved and wanted to be a part of. She finds a lovely painting that gas her finding Mark, a cowboy rancher, to make beautiful paintings for her jobs gallery. Unfortunately, he keeps refusing till an offer is made. Paige ends up moving there to help move things along. More ends up happening that you’ll need to read about. It’s just a great book!
Let It Be Love by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book, and the story, and the realism of the plot and the characters that it possessed! I could not get enough of it! I was simply swept into this wonderful author’s writing, with strong interest!
I loved this book, and it was realistic if I will say. Not every relationship is perfect. Sometimes you really have to work at it. In this particular book, popularity played a key role. How do you balance living a normal life with the love you adore, when paparazzi and cameras are around everywhere. The story was sweet, with strong character development and its own sweetness! I loved how true the love felt was, and how difficult it was at times to keep going. Excellent witting! Was very enjoyable. Loved it!
Amazing writing by a very talented author! I was very much involved with these lovely characters as I read. I highly do recommend this must read novel, and its not one to pass up! For sure a must read!
The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is my first book by this author and I was hopeful for a little mystery and trying to discover the lie in the blurb we are given. The truth comes way too fast and then I got bored. The overall message to the YA audience this book was written for is a great one. The overall topic(no spoilers!) of the secret and lies of the main character is one that should be discussed more with our youth. I highly liked that this book gave a message and used a subject matter that I don’t read often enough about. However, the path to get to this message was exhausting to my brain. I felt I read the same inner dialogue of each character multiple times throughout the story and it led me to disengage. I’ve read so many great reviews about this author so I will be reading another story soon and hope I can fully appreciate what so many others are saying.
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book for all the words, and the feelings that it contained. I found this story very realistic, and one that was very much enjoyable. I could not put this one down!
Paige and Mark were two of a kind in truth! Paige was someone I admired very much for her character, as well as her growth. She was head strong, and knew what she wanted. Mark was stubborn at times, but a good heart still within. I loved their moments together Fighting what they felt, knowing that sometimes you cant fight what is meant to be. The writing was amazing! I loved this book truly!
Amazing read, and I for sure am recommending it! The author knew how to hold the reader’s interest, and make you want to keep reading. I am very happy I got to follow Paige and Mark’s story!
Let It Be Love by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh my goodness, I found this book entertaining and so very romantic. Kiki and Eric are trying to figure out how to make their relationship work. They are dealing with Kiki’s fame. The struggle is real and I found the plot realistic and well-though out. No chunks in it. The characters felt like they could be straight from any small town. They were very easy to relate to. The author dealth with a couple of real life issues in the story which really helped give it that home-town feel. I found my favorite part after the romance was the twist with Louie and a can of whoop ass. There is also redemption in the story for some of the characters. This is a terrific story that gives you all the feelings. I recommend it for all those romance addicts out there. Excellent contemporary romance. It would get more than a 5 star from me if I could give it.
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Paige is on a mission to sign Mark up with her gallery. His painting of a stallion is beautiful. The problem is that he does not want that. He is wealthy and prefers rescuing horses. She thinks she has figured out how to get what she wants. He thinks he knows what he wants. Can these two get it together and realize they have some chemistry? They both have some baggage to bring to a relationship. They seem to be good for each other but will it work. Oh my goodness, I sure did enjoy this romance. They are a little more mature. The relationship seems to take its time. They aren’t the wham bam, thank you, bye type. I loved how they learned to value what each other did. The whole story lays out like a beautiful paining. My favorite part was the description of Mark’s cologne smelling so good that Paige wanted to lick him. That is a new description for me. A lovely story with wonderful characters. Any romance lover would love this.
Saved by Love by Toni Aleo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I did not read the first books in the series but I am going to fix that soon. Evan and Callie are endgame and I want to be them when I grow up. Everything about them and all their struggles. Him the broken man and her the caring sweet heroine.
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this romance. Its a very sweet story about 2 people from quite difference lives but with 1 thing in common. Art. The author does an amazing job writing the characters. I especially love Paige. She is a very determined woman who knows what she wants and won’t stop until she gets it. Mark on the other hand isn’t as keen to enter the artistic world and would rather stay on his ranch rescuing horses.
When they meet the attraction between them is instant. However Paige wants to keep things strictly professional. We shall see how long that last.
When Paige turns up to ask Mark to paint for the gallery he is very reluctant. He paints for pleasure not profit but when Paige makes him an offer he can’t refused he gets on with the task.
To help assist him and check on his progress Paige relocates to Montana to be near him and this is where we see the attraction build and the connection grow.
The characters work well together. Both have pasts and history’s which make embarking on this relationship anything but a walk in the park.
Love by Design by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When reading a series of books you always hope the next book is just as good or better than the last but you’re never really sure till you actually read it. Let me just say book #2 in this series definitely doesn’t disappoint.
The author did a great job again with the storyline and the characters. I really liked being able to “see” some of the characters from the 1st story.
The little “extras” at the ends of some of the chapters were nice little surprises I enjoyed.
The language, culture and history of the characters were nice to see as well.
If you need a reminder that fate & destiny are real then you definitely need to read this story.
