Overall, I liked this book. I thought it was a long read for a romance novel. At first, it was a slow, sometimes confusing read. Then, about halfway through, I got really invested in the story and couldn’t put the book down. I’m glad I stuck with it. I really like the character Kaia/Abagail. I felt sympathetic to her. I can’t imagine going through what Abagail endured as a child, or the lack of privacy and safety that Kaia encountered. I was confused by Everett’s story line. I think the author was trying to give him a secret double-life with the EPA job so he could be like Kaia/Abagail. I felt the story would have been just as good without that plot twist, though. I fell in love with the people of Swan Cove. What a gift to have such a great group of friends. I read this book stand-alone, but now I want to read the previous books in the Swan Cove series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennie M Bechtelhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennie M Bechtel2024-05-08 20:40:262024-05-16 07:16:32Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Jennie M Bechtel
This was my first book by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to have been completely absorbed as soon as I started reading! It’s quite an adventure and I found myself giggling at quite a few scenarios that came to light. Abigail is a marvelous female character that felt incredibly relatable, and Everett was a cautious but swoon worthy book boyfriend. While the cover looks lighthearted and fun, don’t let it fool you because there are some great spicy scenes within these pages! This author has me hooked with one book, and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store. I highly recommend picking this up if you enjoy romance books with a touch of witty banter and steam. You won’t regret it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2024-05-08 20:26:112024-05-16 07:16:18Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Shannen Kern
This was a fun entertaining rom com. I appreciated the wild ride it took me on, there were certainly mini plot twists throughout the book , that kept me engaged from beginning to end. Although the main characters were well written and the many side characters were entertaining there were quite a bit to keep track of, and for me took the ease of reading away just a tad. Overall a fun witty read. A perfect book to escape reality for a little while.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erin DeRomahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin DeRoma2024-05-08 20:25:162024-05-16 07:16:11Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Erin DeRoma
Will You Pretend Marry Me-By Christi Barth 5 stars
Absolutely loved this and thought it was such a cute story. Gave me Hannah Montana vibes but for adults! Kaia a famous popstar hangs up her wig and all her fame to finish her teaching certification as a Music Teacher in a small-town Swan Cove as her real identity Abigal Dilworth. Aside from her best friend and Personal Assistant nobody really knows her true identity. The Principal and Vice Principal Everett Reynolds have to know to let her teach there and they signed a NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) to keep it a secret. During her time there the Main music teacher went on Maternity leave, Abigail also has multiple run ins with, which doesn’t always turn out the best and they seem to have feelings, but both feel they shouldn’t.
Her Friend Zara who she owes everything to for helping her get her first singing gig in the beginning uses Kaia’s wig and vehicle to go check out rehab places and suddenly Kaia has to make a return and even needs the help Everett of as her fake fiancé to save her reputation and career. She is torn between both lives and needs to make a choice soon.
I got the feeling that as Abigail she just wanted to belong somewhere and have friends. She seems to be making them and enjoying it knowing her time might be short as she doesn’t know if she will ever return to her life as Kaia or stay Abigail the Music Teacher.
I don’t want to spoil the rest but this is an absolute must read especially if you loved Hannah Montana (I had 2 girls who loved her, so we know who she is). Great Enemies to lovers
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Andrea Salazarhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAndrea Salazar2024-05-08 20:18:342024-05-16 07:15:45Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Andrea Lopez Salazar
I read Will You Pretend Marry Me as my first read for this author, not realizing it was part of a series, and it can easily be read as a standalone. The story itself gave me some Hannah Montana vibes, with the secret identity singer situation but it is defintely more than just that. The main character lives a double life; as Abigail, she is a normal, run of the mill girl, absolutely normal. Abigail struggles with self identity, and wonders if anyone will ever accept her… As Kaia she is an international popstar; confident and outgoing. After finishing up a long 6 month world tour, Kaia is just over it all. The fake persona, the wigs and makeup, the whole gig has just drained her. Realizing she needs an escape, and a break, she heads to Maine for a few months to be a student teacher as herself, Abigail. Enter Everett Reynolds, VP and teacher at the school she is working at. The initial encounters between Abigail and Everett are interesting, and not at all a “love at first sight” encounter, as some sass and banter are the center of their conversations. Everett also has some secrets of his own as well…he is secretly working for the government. Now something has come up that could ruin Kaia’s reputation, so she goes to Everett for help…Will he fake marry her?? Will these two people with very different lifestyles, and secrets to hide, be able to surpass and overcome everything to have an actual relationship? Will Abigail opt to be Kaia, or remain herself?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Swindlehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Swindle2024-05-08 16:47:502024-05-16 07:06:54Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Amanda Swindle
This was a great contemporary romance. This is a enemies to lovers romance with a fake relationship element. The author does a great job of making the character likeable and the story was unique in the way that both parties were hiding double life’s.
After completing her tour Kaia decided she wants to take a break and get her teaching degree. Removing all the glitz and glamour she transforms into Abigail a quiet girl looking to complete her course. Things should have been simple until she meets the vice principle Everett. Everett knows about Abigail’s alter ego but he has a double life of his own that he is trying to keep secret. When Kaia comes to him asking for his help Everett is reluctant to get involved. But what happens when faking a relationship and feelings crosses the line and those feelings could possible be something real. Can they be together once their double lives are revealed? And where is the line between pretend and real and what happens when they both cross that line? I really enjoyed this story. I was able to lose myself in the characters stories and was gripped seeing how their story would unfold.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2024-05-08 13:56:402024-05-16 07:06:26Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Kerry Carr
This books is a prequel to a series, though it has come out after the end of the Echo Series. This can be read as a stand-alone, at the beginning of the series, or the end of the series, or really any time while you are reading this series, without you getting mixed up. This book follows Gene Rowland, an E.R. doctor in Atlanta who is headed back to his hometown to try and relax, while helping the local doctor with his clinic. On his way into town, he witnesses an accident involving a single vehicle and a tree. He pulls over to help the driver, only to discover that he knows the driver, Amanda, from high school, and she is claiming that the accident was caused by a child walking out into the road. Gene didn’t see the child that Amanda claims she saw, but he is determined to help her solve the mystery and put her mind at ease. This is a great addition to this series, and I truly didn’t want to put it down, which was true for this whole series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candice Esteshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandice Estes2024-05-08 11:59:582024-05-16 07:06:04Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Candice Estes
Oh my gosh I just fell in love with the cover ! I mean hello how can I not ?!
A word of advice before you start this tell your friends and family you’re going to be unavailable for ANYTHING for the next 48 hours it’s going to be stretch or starve or take ou🙈t 🤣🙈😉
ROPED
Sarah isn’t sure of what’s true and what’s not and decides it’s best for her if she leaves Rafe but now his reputation is in jeopardy and she reaches out to him to try an salvage his rep but girl I must give it to you , you lay down the law and wonder if it’s because she doesn’t trust him or herself 🤣🙈and the tension between them is off the charts 🤫😉and he’s lost her once and he’s not going to risk it again ……,
RESCUED
I just adore a runaway bride because there’s always something beautiful that comes from it 🥰
Samantha realises walking down the aisle is going to be the biggest mistake of her life but running away has pros and cons but our girl does a runner and heads for their family cabin where she meets Jake , who’s “working “ for her folks so after much deliberation he stays on but now they’ve got a problem of keeping their hands to themselves and the dealing with her ex who I might add is quite a piece of work and she seriously dodged the bullet if you ask me !
I loved every moment with Samantha and Jake 🥰
RISKED
Another weak spot for me is a single parent 🙈 and Serena is no exception 😉
She hasn’t heard from her dad in a while and when she pops by his house to look for him her heart as well as mine skip a few beats when she realises his house has been broken into and it’s a downright mess and her first thought is that it’s her abusive ex ( grateful she’s rid of him ) but this time he’s innocent and it seems mob related as her dad has written about them and release date is looming and when she turns to the police for help she becomes a target and at this point I’m chewing my nails near to the bit with fear and anxiety and I think if it wasn’t for Mark , our delectable FBI agent I’d have had a nervous breakdown. At first I was a little frustrated with his reluctance but in the end he didn’t disappoint me so squishy hugs to you my friend 😉 Sam you’re a sweet brave boy and stole my heart !
ROMANCE
Candace attends her high school reunion and I just know trouble is heading her way 🤣what was meant to be a one night thing with Greg turns into more and while they had different ideas the outcome turned out mutual so all is well that ends well 😉
This box set was great! It consists of 4 books, each containing a strong, independent woman who meets an alpha male. These are all page turners that keep you on your toes. Each FMC is faced with making choices that deeply impact their lives (and sometimes their families). I definitely recommend these!
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205395639-4-r-s” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1705285209l/205395639._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205395639-4-r-s”>4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3299475.Julie_Castle”>Julie Castle</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6489329403″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> This was a great set of books to get into. Each story has a strong female lead and a great strong and supporting male counterparts. If you like stories that deal with second chances, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and undeniable chemistry this boxset has it all. All of the characters are well rounded and the stories flow nicely. Each story is unique and has its own storyline so if you wanted to read these individually you could. If you pick this up just be prepared to stay up well past the time you should be in bed because you won’t want to put it down. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>
This box set was my introduction to Ms. Castle, wasn’t sure what to expect before I started but once I started reading I was hooked.
I enjoyed all four the stories and think Rafe and Sarah’s story was my favorite, the supporting characters seemed to grab and engage my mind more than the others. This is not a knock on the other characters or books, this about what made their story stand out more to me.
I related most to Candy in the fourth book. As a teenager she was a wild child who loved to shock people. If you haven’t tried it you should, it’s a lot of fun. Trust me on this. Now as an adult she acts like a grown-up but that wild child is still lurking beneath the surface at the HS reunion.
I’m so glad I have been introduced to Ms. Castle’s writing and hope to read more by her in the future.
This was a fun quick read. Kaia is a superstar with a ton of adoring fans but none of them know who she truly is. She has worked hard to become as successful as she is. After a grueling schedule on tour she has decided to be her true self, Abigail Dilwort and do her semester of student teaching to get her teachers license. She has a lot of insecurities about being herself due to her childhood. Everett is the AP and science teacher at the school she will be teaching at, they don’t make the best first impression of each other when they meet. Kaia finds herself in a bind due to a friend and that’s when the fake fiancé comes into play. This story is full of drama, romance, friends, family, lessons, and great characters. This is the first book I have read by this author and I’m glad I took the chance. I enjoyed reading this book. I recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candida Hopperhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandida Hopper2024-05-07 21:45:062024-05-16 07:09:46Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Candida Hopper
4 R’s is my first read by Julie Castle and I will definitely be checking out more books by her. This 4 book collection is full of drama, intrigue, suspense, danger, and plenty of romance. The first book, Fool’s Gold, finds Rafe and Sarah in a battle for their marriage, as well as their land. The undeniable chemistry between the two can clearly be felt through the amazing writing of Julie Castle. This one had some twists and turns that took me by surprise. The second book, Her Heart’s Desire, introduces Samantha and Jake and their love/hate relationship with one another. This one definitely packed in the suspense. The third book, Serena’s Web, finds Serena and Mark entangled with the mob. This was a lot more suspenseful than I was expecting, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Forced proximity tropes always seem to exceed my expectations. The final book, It Had to be You, finds Candy and Greg, past adversaries thrown together after many years apart. This one still has some drama but was a lot less suspenseful; a little more relaxed. Julie Castle’s world building in this series is great and the depth and personality of her characters is amazing! I love that each story had its own style and story line and wasn’t just a generic, boring narrative. Each book is unique and exciting. I can’t wait to read more by Julie Castle.
When I looked at this cover and read the blurb I already fell in love 🤣❣️📚what can I say I’m a sucker for a good cover because it’s almost guaranteed that what’s in between is going to be brilliant !
Abigail is a pop star but at heart she’s a teacher and after her latest world tour she gets the opportunity to go “ under cover “ and complete her teaching degree , she’s a student teacher at a high school and just as she thinks she can breath a little easier she meets her vice principal and he’s a little rough around the edges but oh so easy on the eyes and while I get where he’s coming from , to a degree I can’t help but feel sorry for Abigail , I mean hello give the girl a break …..
Everett has his hands full trying to be chemistry teacher , look after his sister , his “ secret job” and be vice principal ( I’d also be a little flustered 😉) but things are getting a little more intense for him because he now has to deal with Abigail aka Kaia and she ruffles his feathers but like I said he could cut her some slack …. Also he’s got a chip on his shoulder thanks to an ex girlfriend and between us I could just kick her on the shins for being so unkind but you know what it’s her loss !
Anyhoo these 2 have a love hate relationship if you like but then fate intervenes “ Kaia” needs a love interest thanks to some sly slithering snake who I shall not mention , she doesn’t need airtime with her nasty intentions 🙈😡anyway Everett agrees to be the fake fiancé ( wicked giggle and rubbing of hands ) and then things get interesting and I found myself laughing , crying , getting frustrated and feeling disgusted and disillusioned by people but good will always overcome especially when cheering the right team 🥰
My heart really hurt for Abigail because on stage she oozes confidence as Kaia but take away that mask she can play behind and you have a girl that just wants to be , she wants to fit in , she want’s acceptance like the rest of us and it makes her human and I think more often than not that’s the case in real life isn’t it !? As for Everett , you’re a honey but let things go my friend … an enjoyable and fun read and it’s one is like to share with my teacher friends 🥰📚
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi2024-05-07 20:26:442024-05-16 07:09:07Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Heidi Sturgess
This was the first book I had picked up by this author, and it was absolutely incredible! Don’t let the higher number of pages put you off because this is a collection of four books altogether. The stories all flow so well in their own way and felt like I breezed right through them all. Each book is focused on a different couple, and each has their own tropes so there’s really something for everyone! I enjoyed all of the characters as their development felt natural and well built. I don’t think I can pick a favorite out of all four because I truly plan on coming back to read them again in the not-so-distant future! There are strong female characters throughout and men to make you swoon (and sometimes yell). This author has left me with such a pleasant book hangover. I can’t wait to see what other amazing books they have! I highly recommend picking this up as it really seems to have something for everyone in the romance world.
So much romance. I love. Highly recommend. Rafe and Sarah will they work out the differences and find love. Sam literally runs into Jake who can protect her. But can he really. Serena is trying to save her father. And in the middle of that mobsters and FBI are on her heels. Candy returns to her hometown. Greg wants her he lost her once and doesn’t plan on losing her again.
I read this book as a stand alone, and did not realize it was part of a series. You could absolutely read this on its own, although it made me so curious and wanting to grab the previous titles to get those stories! This was an amazing read and I loved the story line and chemistry between Everett and Abigail. The story is focused in a school setting with a relationship between the Vice Principal, Everett, and a new teacher, Abigail. The story line was believable and hit close to home because I work in a school. There is fun spice, and banter, but the story itself is just one you don’t want to end. I especially loved the relationship between all the other characters in the book too.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amy Sprauhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmy Sprau2024-05-07 19:19:332024-05-16 07:04:28Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Amy Sprau
This book brings it’s readers a four book series in one and who doesn’t love that!! The more the merrier right? Each story drew me in right from the start and kept me captivated to the finish with great likeable characters, interesting storylines and a few little twists along the way that you may or may not see coming. This is a new author for me and I will definitely be reading more from this talented author.
4 R’s is a compilation of four full stories with each having a strong woman and an alpha man who you will just delve into and have a selection of new book boyfriends to choose from.
Roped Sarah left he life with Rafe when she discovered so things but were they true or false, so she has decided to return and try and help Rafe regain his reputation within the community. So as she lays down the rules of her help there is something bubbling under the surface with them. Can she help him and can this chemistry they feel between them be good or blow up in their faces?
Rescued Samantha can not marry this man, so becoming a runaway bride is the best option she has but there are risks and disasters with this. Thinking she could escape to her families cabin but once she arrives she finds Jake there doing a job for her father. A discussion is had and agreement settled upon but will they be able to keep their hands of each other longer to see the danger in their mist.
Risked Serena’s father is missing due to his new book about the most elusive man Grayson, but when a plan goes wrong and someone gets shot, Serena and her son’s life is in the balance until the FBI assign FBI Agent Mark Riley to her case. When things don’t quite go to plan and Marks thinks she has something to do with it, can they both trust each other enough to get to the bottom of it all and leave their feelings at the door at least for now.
Romanced Candy is back at her high school reunion and wonders why the life she is there until in walks Greg Morris. As they getting chatting is is obvious that he needs her to help him out with his job but Greg creates a offer she can not refuse or a situation she can not remove herself from. So when it comes out that they are engaged (although fake) her world is turned upside down. from nasty interactions with his mom and not wanting to be in this situation, with spending this time with Greg their feelings are becoming more the enemies.
This is the first books I have read by this author and they are wonderful and well written, just enough edge to keep you engaged to the end.
I love how each of the female characters are strong, accomplished and strives to help on each story and not ashamed to show this side to anyone. The male leaders although strong alphas in there own right are a wonderful yang to the female characters and add a layer with the enemies to lovers frustration they have with each and the interactions are just brilliant.
I can’t wait to read more by this author and more in this series.
I really enjoyed this book. I read it in less than two evenings. Once I started I just couldn’t stop reading it.
Dr. Gene Rowland was driving down the road when he witnessed a single car accident. The car in front of him, swerved and ran into a tree. When he pulled over to race to help the victim, he discovered that it was a woman. Later he finds out that he actually went to school with her. It was Amanda. What he doesn’t know is Amanda used to have a crush on him.
She doesn’t want to be admitted to the hospital, so he goes home with her as a Dr. and friend to make sure that she is okay. She also is known by his mother as the Pie Queen.
She insists that she did not see a deer and swerve that it was a young girl who appeared to be afraid of something. No one believes her.
Check out the story and I am sure that you will enjoy it as much as I did.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Phylis Carpenterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngPhylis Carpenter2024-05-07 10:36:562024-05-16 06:58:47Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C. R. Alam Reviewed by Phylis Carpenter May
I really enjoyed this series. There was just enough spice and romance but it didn’t overshadow the plot which had quite a bit of action, mystery, and intrigue. In this collection, you get 4 fairly quick reads: Fool’s Gold (Roped), Her Heart’s Desire (Rescued), Serena’s Web (Risked), and It Had To Be You (Romanced). I enjoyed all of these stories; however, my personal favorite was Jake and Samantha’s story in Her Heart’s Desire (Rescued). I appreciate how the FMCs are strong and independent and the MMCs let them be who they are but they are still there when they need them and protect them. There are tropes for everyone throughout these stories. Castle pretty much hits them all within these 4 books. The storyline moves fairly quickly; however, some of the chapters tend to be on the longer side and, for me personally, I like shorter chapters. But, overall, I’d recommend these stories, especially if you are looking for something on the lighter side of romance. Reviewed by @meggs1717
I’m glad nobody asked me to choose a favourite out of these 4 books as that would be impossible! From cowboys to PIs to men in uniform and alpha males! Plus strong female characters who often surprise their man and the reader! I look forward to reading more from this author! Highly recommended!
This was a really fun read! I’ve not read this author before but I’ll be looking for more of her work.
There are double lives and secrets abounding in this rom-com. It was like peeping through the lives of Kaia/Abigail and Everett. Their relationship is a love-hate right from the start but can they continue to deny their true feelings?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2024-05-06 19:36:332024-05-16 07:02:44Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Julie Johnson
This is a prequel to the Echo Series. This is a story with a bit of a puzzle that needs to be put together. Amanda works very hard to figure it out. At first I thought she was over the top with worry but as the story moves along I realize it is just her personality. Gene is a guy who is looking for something different. He possibly has a chance at something new but he just needs to overcome a hardhead. Overall I felt this was okay. I struggled to connect to them and their relationship did not wow me. The story is different in the respect that the suspenseful parts did not happen to main character.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lisa Helmickhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLisa Helmick2024-05-06 12:38:252024-05-16 07:01:59Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Lisa Helmick
This book was so good! It sets the stage for the series. Gene and Amanda are perfect! The two are in an accident. Gene who is a doctor wants to treat her and Amanda refuses to go to the hospital. There is tension, romance, a hot doctor, and a woman who doesn’t want to admit that she needs help at first.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amelia Stansellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmelia Stansell2024-05-05 22:58:262024-05-16 06:51:31Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Amelia Stansell
ER Doctor Gene Rowland is returning home needing a break from the hustle and bustle of life. He witnesses an accident and meets Amanda Garner who was driving and now is hurt. Amanda is insistent that she swerved to prevent hitting a girl. The problem is despite all the effort from police, they do not see any sight of the girl and Gene begins to wonder if she really saw a girl?
This was entertaining. Gene won’t let Amanda be by herself due to her injury and they begin to fall for one another. I really enjoyed the mystery component of this story. I was pulled in and could not put this book down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emily Heislerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmily Heisler2024-05-05 21:33:132024-05-16 06:51:00Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Emily H
What a fun idea for a book! Kaia is a mega pop star, big enough to have only one name and is finishing a world tour. Her real name is Abigail and she has just finished up her degree and needs to complete student teaching in order to finally become a teacher. Her team sets her up to student teach in a small town in Maine but when she gets there she learns that her mentor is on bed rest and she will have to jump into teaching. Everett is the nerdy science teacher and part time vice principal of the school. He and the principal are the only ones that know that she is also Kaia. Abigail and Everett don’t like each other. His fiancé broke their engagement to follow money and so he doesn’t trust Kaia/Abigail. Abigail is so used to calling all the shots around her and always being in control. Then they start to learn that they have more in common than they think, both have secret jobs (his working for the EPA) and they both grew up around foster kids (his parents fostered and she was a foster kid). I loved both main characters and all the friends that surround them. I read in the acknowledgments that this is the third book in the series so now I need to go back and read the first two!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Audrie Harringtonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAudrie Harrington2024-05-05 16:43:122024-05-16 06:55:46Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Audrie Harrington
4.5 stars Healing Hearts is #0.5 the prequel contemporary romance tale and where it all begins for The Echo series. I love this series. We got to see these characters throughout the previous books as CR intertwines the characters, so it is good to see how Gene and Amanda’s story came to be. This heartfelt and fun-loving story will have you falling in love with the characters and hooked from the word go. It has tension and angst, chemistry and steamy scenes, unbridled passion, pain and emotions and let’s not forget the humour. There are a couple of twisty turns, small town gossips and rumour mills in this small-town romance. I thought the last book was my favourite, but I this one definitely is now. Gene is tired and what was once is passion is now a chore. He has lost his faith in what he does, and little does he know that it only takes a special someone to make it all ok again. Amanda is not sure how she ended up how she did, but she is grateful for the help she is getting. Now she just has to deal with her wayward thoughts of the hot new doctor in town. I am now waiting patiently to see what CR brings next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-05-05 15:57:372024-05-16 06:55:38Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Jenni Bishop
This is a collection of 4 books that make up the R series. Each book is unique and different but all of them are captivating and are stories I just couldn’t put down. They are all contemporary romances books and each book focuses on a different couple so they can be ready as standalone reads.
Fool’s Gold is the first book in the series and it focuses on Rafe and Sarah. This is a second chance romance with elements of drama, angst, questions to be answered and a chemistry between the two characters that can’t be denied After Sarah finds a letter claiming that Rafe was only marrying her for her family connection she flees on their wedding night leaving Rafe wondering what happened. Now she has returned wanting to make things right by repairing his reputation but what that a mistake. Was the content of the letter Sarah found actually true or was it someone trying to pull them apart? The more time they spend together the more their attraction and chemistry sizzles but is it too late for second chances?
Her Hearts Desire is the second book in this series is an enemies to lovers story revolving around Samantha and Jake. This story has drama, tension and danger. When Jake sees Samantha she is fleeing her own wedding. Now they must work together to solve a crime and stop her ex fiancée but every time they meet it is explosive. Will they be able to work together or will their attraction and chemistry blow everything apart?
Serena’s Web is the 3rd book. It is Serena and Marks story. Serena needs help to rescue her dad from the mob that has kidnapped him so she turns to FBI agent Mark to help. What follows is a story of danger, angst, and trust issues. Can Serena trust Mark to make finding her dad a priority? And will the feelings Mark is feeling towards Serena and her child can he trust enough to allow them in?
It Had To Be You is the fourth book and is a small town enemies to lovers romance. Again it is full of sparks and chemistry as well as the couple being from opposite sides of the tracks. It’s a romance with enough drama to keep you gripped and turning the pages.
I couldn’t pick a favourite out of this series as I loved them all. They all had something unique and enough drama and angst that I couldn’t stop reading.
Just when she thought she could take a break. My oh my. Gotta say, Christi Barth has quickly earned her place on my favorite authors of the year list with this one. This is the first book I have read by this interesting talented author. No joke the back and forth with Abigail and Everett made this book fly by so much more than I thought possible. Dual perspective Abigail/Kaia and Everett. Kaia is a world pop star coming off a six-month world tour. Kaia was her escape from her real life, a way to reinvent herself without anything permanent. Wigs, platform boots, curvy padding added to her undergarments. From day one she was thinking about the day when she was just herself again. Abigail Dilworth, the girl that no one wanted. Not her parents, foster parents, no one. Until she found teachers that took her under their wing and pushed her into the light to embrace her talents and not hide them. Now she has a five-month sabbatical to get her student teacher hours to get her certificate. Then she will deal with the biggest decision of her life. To continue life as only Abigail the teacher or continue to be popstar Kaia. Everett Reynolds is the AP Chemistry teacher and vice principal of Swan Cove High, who secretly has a government job with the EPA. The moment they first meet it is sass and comebacks that keep him fired up and not in a fun way. He’s not happy and when he sees her the next day at school, and who she is the back and forth honestly gets better. When she reveals her secrets at least part of them and then asks for a favor he must decide what to do but the next favor is even more. He’s just a coastal town teacher, he never wanted to be in the limelight on the arm of a popstar. Can Abigail survive the five months? What will happen when friends become enemies? When enemies become lovers? This world is based in a small town in America with a twist. The author is open about her inspirations behind this story and while it is obvious it’s more mature in many ways while holding on to the classic nostalgia. I would definitely get in line to watch a movie based off this movie just to see it all come to life for real and not just in my head. That banter stays with you, and I admit I threw a few of the really good lines at my husband while reading. His face was priceless. Thank you, Christi Barth.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ayla Phippshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAyla Phipps2024-05-04 21:52:302024-05-16 06:46:22Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Ayla Phipps
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
