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Something to Celebrate #1
Ivy Entwined
When Ivy Callahan returns to her hometown as mayor, she doesn't expect much to have changed. But now her ex-fiancé is the town planner, the biggest business is closed, and the only store interested in Celebration, NY is a Megamart. On top of it all, the liaison for the big, bad, box store is Marcus Weaver, her childhood crush. And he's still as dangerously delectable as ever.
Marcus unwillingly spent his teens in Celebration with his vindictive, drunken uncle. As far as Marcus is concerned, the town's only use is to cement his rise up the corporate ladder. He needs that Megamart opened, and Ivy is his ticket. But the sexy, stubborn mayor could also be his downfall.
As the unemployed townspeople put on the pressure, Ivy needs to do something. With a fresh downtown-renewal project in the works, Ivy could stop Marcus and his Megamart before they kill the town's spirit. But with sparks flying between Ivy and Marcus, they each need to decide what's more their careers or their hearts.
Each book in the Something to Celebrate series is a standalone, full-length story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series
Book #1 Ivy Entwined
Book #2 Permanent Ink
Marcus unwillingly spent his teens in Celebration with his vindictive, drunken uncle. As far as Marcus is concerned, the town's only use is to cement his rise up the corporate ladder. He needs that Megamart opened, and Ivy is his ticket. But the sexy, stubborn mayor could also be his downfall.
As the unemployed townspeople put on the pressure, Ivy needs to do something. With a fresh downtown-renewal project in the works, Ivy could stop Marcus and his Megamart before they kill the town's spirit. But with sparks flying between Ivy and Marcus, they each need to decide what's more their careers or their hearts.
Each book in the Something to Celebrate series is a standalone, full-length story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series
Book #1 Ivy Entwined
Book #2 Permanent Ink
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2013
2 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Laura Simcox
11 books79 followersAfter spending twenty years in professional theater as a costume designer, with a few of those years also spent as a college instructor, Laura abandoned the nomadic lifestyle to sit in a comfy office chair at a second hand oak desk and write. The result? Romance novels! Her favorite thing ever since she was, oh, about twelve. She writes contemporary, light novels and enjoys creating quirky characters and funny, sexy dialogue. Still, the love story is the focus and Laura has a huge soft spot for a sappy, happy ending.
Laura lives in North Carolina with her husband (true love is real!) and her adorable, high energy four year old son who is currently obsessed with How to Train Your Dragon. And that's cool, because she trains her own little dragon every single day. For escape, she flits around on social media, so come say hi!
Laura lives in North Carolina with her husband (true love is real!) and her adorable, high energy four year old son who is currently obsessed with How to Train Your Dragon. And that's cool, because she trains her own little dragon every single day. For escape, she flits around on social media, so come say hi!
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 20, 2014
I enjoyed this. With likeable characters humour, romance and fight it had elements I like to find in an easy read.
When Ivy returns to hear hometown to step into her dad's shoes as mayor she find her ex-fiancé is on the town council mind her childhood crush is trying to get permission to build a megastore. Residents up in arms, she declines his proposal, but they can't deny the sparks that are flying.
It was a little steady going, some aspects seemed drawn out, but I liked Ivy, she's a perfectionist but she has her vulnerabilities. Marcus didn't have an easy life growing up, your heart can't not go out to him and you understand his motives, but together they do have a great chemistry.
But it was Ivy's Grandmother that stole many moments in this book, she's old and opinionated, but wise with it and had me laughing many times.
All in all, a pleasant read.
Copy received courtesy of NetGalley for an honest & unbiased opinion
When Ivy returns to hear hometown to step into her dad's shoes as mayor she find her ex-fiancé is on the town council mind her childhood crush is trying to get permission to build a megastore. Residents up in arms, she declines his proposal, but they can't deny the sparks that are flying.
It was a little steady going, some aspects seemed drawn out, but I liked Ivy, she's a perfectionist but she has her vulnerabilities. Marcus didn't have an easy life growing up, your heart can't not go out to him and you understand his motives, but together they do have a great chemistry.
But it was Ivy's Grandmother that stole many moments in this book, she's old and opinionated, but wise with it and had me laughing many times.
All in all, a pleasant read.
Copy received courtesy of NetGalley for an honest & unbiased opinion
September 28, 2014
Ivy Entwined by Laura Simcox
Written with humor and a little raunchy on the language side, this book was entertaining. Ivy has good intentions for the town and her life but things don't always go as planned. The scene where she's in the kitchen, has been on the wrong side of a hammer, then the freezer door hits her on the head followed by the coffee grinder spilling all over her is so much real life. Haven't we all had those kinds of situations where everything seems to go wrong?
"He still sounded like a tool. Good thing she hadn’t married
him because by now, he’d be taking a dirt nap and she’d be in prison."
Ivy Callahan is the new mayor of Celebration. She has big plans to revitalize the downtown area of Celebration.
Marcus Weaver is ready to invest in Celebration by bringing big box Megamart into town which will help with the huge unemployment rate.
Ivy and Marcus both want success for Celebration but don't agree with how to get there. They do agree that there is considerable chemistry between them and can't seem to keep from thinking about the other. Or keying their lips and other body part from bumping together.
The lies and complicated schemes abound and feelings are hurt multiple times. Both know the other doesn't want their plan to go through yet they are both surprised and hurt when overhearing it flat out. Why? A little depressing with so much anger and hurt and lies.
I enjoyed the humor in this book. I look forward to reading future books by Laura Simcox.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Written with humor and a little raunchy on the language side, this book was entertaining. Ivy has good intentions for the town and her life but things don't always go as planned. The scene where she's in the kitchen, has been on the wrong side of a hammer, then the freezer door hits her on the head followed by the coffee grinder spilling all over her is so much real life. Haven't we all had those kinds of situations where everything seems to go wrong?
"He still sounded like a tool. Good thing she hadn’t married
him because by now, he’d be taking a dirt nap and she’d be in prison."
Ivy Callahan is the new mayor of Celebration. She has big plans to revitalize the downtown area of Celebration.
Marcus Weaver is ready to invest in Celebration by bringing big box Megamart into town which will help with the huge unemployment rate.
Ivy and Marcus both want success for Celebration but don't agree with how to get there. They do agree that there is considerable chemistry between them and can't seem to keep from thinking about the other. Or keying their lips and other body part from bumping together.
The lies and complicated schemes abound and feelings are hurt multiple times. Both know the other doesn't want their plan to go through yet they are both surprised and hurt when overhearing it flat out. Why? A little depressing with so much anger and hurt and lies.
I enjoyed the humor in this book. I look forward to reading future books by Laura Simcox.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
September 6, 2013
Anytime a book had a grandmother that swears like a trucker, I'm bound to love it. Not only does IVY ENTWINED have a potty mouthed Gramma, but it has a mayor with a tendency to be a bit foul and a hot investor looking to fulfill his dream over owning his own "big box" store in his old hometown.
Ivy and Marcus were two characters that I could have continued to read, even if all they were doing were driving each other nuts, because of the chemistry they had. They could rub each other the wrong way one minute and with a wink or a sarcastic reply, be all over each other the next. Beneath both of their stubborn exteriors, they both wanted what was good for their hometown and be with each other. Their relationship may have started with half truths, little white lies and heaped with family deception, but they both learned that despite all of that and the fact that they won't always agree on things, they needed each other.
Marcus and Ivy aren't the only characters that draw you in. Ivy's Gramma and her parents, Delia and Brian, add an element to both Marcus and Ivy's life that they needed. Most of that time that little added something meant laughs for the reader, but while we could laugh at Ivy and Marcus' expense, would could also see the Callahan family helped Ivy and Marcus to not be so serious and enjoy each other.
I look forward to more books by Laura. This was an absolute joy to read and I hope to catch up with the resident of Celebration, NY again soon.
Ivy and Marcus were two characters that I could have continued to read, even if all they were doing were driving each other nuts, because of the chemistry they had. They could rub each other the wrong way one minute and with a wink or a sarcastic reply, be all over each other the next. Beneath both of their stubborn exteriors, they both wanted what was good for their hometown and be with each other. Their relationship may have started with half truths, little white lies and heaped with family deception, but they both learned that despite all of that and the fact that they won't always agree on things, they needed each other.
Marcus and Ivy aren't the only characters that draw you in. Ivy's Gramma and her parents, Delia and Brian, add an element to both Marcus and Ivy's life that they needed. Most of that time that little added something meant laughs for the reader, but while we could laugh at Ivy and Marcus' expense, would could also see the Callahan family helped Ivy and Marcus to not be so serious and enjoy each other.
I look forward to more books by Laura. This was an absolute joy to read and I hope to catch up with the resident of Celebration, NY again soon.
July 22, 2014
Copy from Netgalley for an honest review****
Ivy is the new town mayor, Marcus once lived in Celebrations, NY and now wants to pay it forward and put in a Megamart. The problem, is the town doesn't want any big stores and Ivy will make a deal with the devil to try help her town out. These two are hilarious and Ivy's grandmother was pure and simply hilarious. I was always looking forward to her scenes in the book just because she was fun to read.
Ivy had a major crush on Marcus when she was younger, and now the tables are sort of turned. Marcus can't stop thinking of the sweet sexy Ivy, and put them together and you get a lot of chemistry.
This was a fun, sweet and romantic book.
Ivy is the new town mayor, Marcus once lived in Celebrations, NY and now wants to pay it forward and put in a Megamart. The problem, is the town doesn't want any big stores and Ivy will make a deal with the devil to try help her town out. These two are hilarious and Ivy's grandmother was pure and simply hilarious. I was always looking forward to her scenes in the book just because she was fun to read.
Ivy had a major crush on Marcus when she was younger, and now the tables are sort of turned. Marcus can't stop thinking of the sweet sexy Ivy, and put them together and you get a lot of chemistry.
This was a fun, sweet and romantic book.
September 30, 2013
Full review and interview with the author on my blog, Becky on Books.
There were a lot of things to like about Ivy Entwined. The small town setting of Celebration, New York (somewhere near Syracuse) is charming and quirky. There’s quite a few colorful secondary characters, many of whom will hopefully show up in future novels–Alberta Fields, former English teacher and town council member; Ronald Watkins, a business owner also on the town council; and Sherry, Ivy’s administrative assistant, always make Ivy’s job interesting, to say the least.
Marcus’s uncle Herman is another character who keeps everyone on their toes, especially Marcus. I loved the scene where Marcus, whose rental car reservation was messed up, has to make his triumphant (he hopes) ride back into town in the car Herman uses for his realty business (Weaver Realty is your nesting expert. Crooked stick-on letters on the truck tell you so). It has aged artificial turf on the roof, and a chicken we can only hope has seen better days is wired to the top. The doors stick, and to make things even more interesting, it stalls when you attempt an elaborate driving maneuver–like stopping for a school bus.
Ivy’s grandmother Colleen is a hoot, and alternately acts as an instigating sidekick for both Ivy and Herman. Her Awful Christmas Sweater party makes for some laugh-out-loud moments, especially the descriptions of the attendees’ attire.
I enjoyed both Ivy and Marcus as characters, and the idea behind the plot is a solid one–newly minted mayor of the town, desperate to save it from the downward spiral it’s on versus the guy who’s come back to town with dreams of opening a big-box store–which will probably ultimately hurt the town–and who also happens to be the guy said mayor was crushing on as a young teen. There’s all kinds of push-pull factors going on with these two–their attraction to each other and Ivy’s family’s matchmaking on the one side against their opposing goals for Celebration and desire to make something of themselves–and the conflict they create is great.
All good things, and they kept me turning the pages.
Parts of the story didn’t work as well for me, though. Both Ivy and Marcus seemed to flip flop quickly–too quickly, in some cases–between what they said they wanted and what they actually did, and it was a bit disconcerting. At times I felt as if I’d missed something because the shift felt so abrupt, but checking back in the book often didn’t show me anything new to make the change make more sense.
The resolution is perhaps the best example of this–one of the characters suddenly does a complete turnaround from what they’d been working for nearly their entire adult life, ultimately deciding to go in a totally different direction. While I agree that it would have been nearly impossible for both Ivy and Marcus to get what they wanted here, professionally as well as personally, I’d liked to have seen more of the thought process that the character went through to justify the change. How did the idea occur to them? What did they have to do to achieve it, and how will it ultimately fulfill them more than the path they thought they were on? None of these things were made clear, and it left me unsatisfied with that part of the HEA. Without knowing their true thoughts, the “EA” portion feels up in the air–for now.
(Yes, the English teacher in me is cringing at the inaccurate use of pronouns in that paragraph. But gosh darn it, I’m not going to give any spoilers here, so she’ll have to deal.)
That said, Laura Simcox assures us that we’ll see Marcus and Ivy again in the series. Future novels set in Celebration might help convince me that this solution will ultimately work, and I’m more than willing to give them a chance.
There were a lot of things to like about Ivy Entwined. The small town setting of Celebration, New York (somewhere near Syracuse) is charming and quirky. There’s quite a few colorful secondary characters, many of whom will hopefully show up in future novels–Alberta Fields, former English teacher and town council member; Ronald Watkins, a business owner also on the town council; and Sherry, Ivy’s administrative assistant, always make Ivy’s job interesting, to say the least.
“Excuse me.” Alberta waved from the front row. “Ivy?”
“Yes, Alberta? What can I do for you?”
Before Alberta could respond, the man sitting next to her rose and hoisted up his trousers. “We’re out of doughnuts, aren’t we? Always used to be three dozen at these meetings but Sherry only brought two dozen. Plenty of people here didn’t even get one.”
Alberta took a dainty bite of a pink-frosted doughnut and spoke around it. “That’s because you ate three of them, Ronald.”
“Put a sock in it, old bag.” Ronald Watkins smoothed a hand over his comb-over hair and scratched his ear.
Alberta sniffed. “Ivy, I know the town council is supposed to sit in the reserved seats, but I find myself unable to concentrate on the business at hand.” She heaved herself up and moved to an empty seat.
Ronald glared at her. “Good. Don’t see why she’s on the council anyway. Don’t own any commercial property in town.”
“Doesn’t. She doesn’t own, Ronald,” Alberta snapped.
“That’s for damn sure. And a good thing, too,” he muttered as he returned to his chair. “Don’t even see why we have to be here today. This ain’t a council meeting.”
Alberta leaned over. “We’re here to support our new mayor. Now quit complaining.”
Ivy let out a slow breath and turned to the woman behind her, who sat at a desk clicking a ballpoint pen. “Is that conversation going in the minutes, Sherry?”
Sherry, administrative assistant to the mayor of Celebration, rolled her eyes. “You want it to?”
“No. All I want is to get these heels off and flop in front of the TV,” Ivy answered.
“You and me both, hon. I’ve been sitting here recording this mess for twenty years. Your dad always hated town hall meetings, too.” Sherry drew a frowny face on the legal pad in front of her and then placed a large dot on the forehead. “That’s a bullet hole.”
Marcus’s uncle Herman is another character who keeps everyone on their toes, especially Marcus. I loved the scene where Marcus, whose rental car reservation was messed up, has to make his triumphant (he hopes) ride back into town in the car Herman uses for his realty business (Weaver Realty is your nesting expert. Crooked stick-on letters on the truck tell you so). It has aged artificial turf on the roof, and a chicken we can only hope has seen better days is wired to the top. The doors stick, and to make things even more interesting, it stalls when you attempt an elaborate driving maneuver–like stopping for a school bus.
Ivy’s grandmother Colleen is a hoot, and alternately acts as an instigating sidekick for both Ivy and Herman. Her Awful Christmas Sweater party makes for some laugh-out-loud moments, especially the descriptions of the attendees’ attire.
I enjoyed both Ivy and Marcus as characters, and the idea behind the plot is a solid one–newly minted mayor of the town, desperate to save it from the downward spiral it’s on versus the guy who’s come back to town with dreams of opening a big-box store–which will probably ultimately hurt the town–and who also happens to be the guy said mayor was crushing on as a young teen. There’s all kinds of push-pull factors going on with these two–their attraction to each other and Ivy’s family’s matchmaking on the one side against their opposing goals for Celebration and desire to make something of themselves–and the conflict they create is great.
All good things, and they kept me turning the pages.
Parts of the story didn’t work as well for me, though. Both Ivy and Marcus seemed to flip flop quickly–too quickly, in some cases–between what they said they wanted and what they actually did, and it was a bit disconcerting. At times I felt as if I’d missed something because the shift felt so abrupt, but checking back in the book often didn’t show me anything new to make the change make more sense.
The resolution is perhaps the best example of this–one of the characters suddenly does a complete turnaround from what they’d been working for nearly their entire adult life, ultimately deciding to go in a totally different direction. While I agree that it would have been nearly impossible for both Ivy and Marcus to get what they wanted here, professionally as well as personally, I’d liked to have seen more of the thought process that the character went through to justify the change. How did the idea occur to them? What did they have to do to achieve it, and how will it ultimately fulfill them more than the path they thought they were on? None of these things were made clear, and it left me unsatisfied with that part of the HEA. Without knowing their true thoughts, the “EA” portion feels up in the air–for now.
(Yes, the English teacher in me is cringing at the inaccurate use of pronouns in that paragraph. But gosh darn it, I’m not going to give any spoilers here, so she’ll have to deal.)
That said, Laura Simcox assures us that we’ll see Marcus and Ivy again in the series. Future novels set in Celebration might help convince me that this solution will ultimately work, and I’m more than willing to give them a chance.
July 12, 2020
Really good fun. Lots of hilarious moments and really great characters.
September 1, 2013
Deceit can never be good especially when there is love between two people.
Ivy Entwined was a perfect adorable read that had me laughing within a couple of pages into this story. This is an easy to read story, perfect for an afternoon where you can let your mind wonder and just enjoy. The dialogue felt real and the characters were well developed. Honestly I loved how both characters had this attraction but they both were fighting it. Only that they both are deceiving each other and even though they both now know it, they can’t stop the desire they feel for each other.
Marcus Weaver has lead a life with lots of bitterness, his only sight is wealth and lots of it. He has a sad story behind why his life is this way and it’s truly sad. When he starts telling his story I couldn’t believe what he went through when he was four years old, needing to take care of his mother because either she was bleeding or barfing due to her alcohol drinking was bad. Only the worst part was when she passed away and he had to go live with his Uncle Herman, he could not wait fast enough to get out of that house. He believed he never to had a true home, a true family that is until he comes back to Celebration, NY and meets the Callahan family.
Ivy Callahan had a wonderful family but she was about to commit the worst mistake of her life, but I was so glad she did not go through with it. She went off and made a life but then her father had a heart attack and she needed to go back home. Now back home she was voted into the mayor position and she had her work cut out for her. I totally felt bad for her because not only did she have a dysfunctional town council but her ex-fiancé was on it also. Only that was not the only problem going on in Celebration, NY but the unemployment rate had gone up since the closure of Parliament Bakery and she needed to see that a good company bought the property and brought back good paying jobs. Only she was not planning on her high school crush to come waltzing down and make her life a living hell.
The moment that he saw her he needed to find out whom she was but he was looking for the mayor but he got the shock of his life when he found out that Brian Callahan was no longer the mayor but his daughter. From the moment that they met it was as if Ivy was meant to be in Marcus’s embrace not only that but she truly had a potty mouth on her but sorry after reading more I find out from where she got that mouth from. When Herman was introduced and he continued to pop in I disliked him and his way of belittling his grandson. I would think that Marcus being the only family he had he would treat him with kindness and he would quit his drinking. When Marcus tells Ivy that he would like to open a Megamart in Celebration she knows that it can’t happen but she devises a plan. Maybe she can get what she wants from him; he has money that can be used for her renovation of Main Street. Only that she needs to play it smart and Preston, her ex-fiancé, needs to find a buyer for the bakery, him being the planner of the town council. Only when a lie is told it will not be a secret forever but what will happen when Marcus finds out. When Marcus overhears the conversation he can’t believe it but he now has a plan to get what he wants and Herman is going to give him both things. But what will happen when the truth comes out of who Marcus’s father is and how this changes everything. What will happen when Marcus leaves will Ivy finally tell her family that she is in love with him? Will Marcus be able to make the right decision for the sake of the town that holds the love of his life but also his new family?
Ivy Entwined is a breath of fresh air. The family atmosphere is great in this book. One of the characters that really stuck out to me was Ivy’s grandmother Colleen, she is a grandmother that I would love to have had, she had me laughing with her sense of humor. The pacing was excellent and watching Marcus and Ivy relationship grow and watch their desire for each other was excellent. The sense of a small town at times is overwhelming but this one did not seem that way, sure there was a rumor here and there about the non existent relationship between Marcus and Ivy but the towns people looked out for each other. Ms. Simox did an excellent job of building the suspense of what would happen between the two characters and how their life would turn out, sure you know that they will eventually have their happily ever after but this story truly had some turns that were unexpected. The chemistry between Marcus and Ivy is smokin’ hot; the desire that they feel for each other is felt in each touch each kiss. This story is creatively written and this will definitely not be my last read of Ms. Simox.
If you are looking for a read that will have you laughing throughout the read but enjoy each and every page, this read is for you. Pick it up today.
Ivy Entwined was a perfect adorable read that had me laughing within a couple of pages into this story. This is an easy to read story, perfect for an afternoon where you can let your mind wonder and just enjoy. The dialogue felt real and the characters were well developed. Honestly I loved how both characters had this attraction but they both were fighting it. Only that they both are deceiving each other and even though they both now know it, they can’t stop the desire they feel for each other.
Marcus Weaver has lead a life with lots of bitterness, his only sight is wealth and lots of it. He has a sad story behind why his life is this way and it’s truly sad. When he starts telling his story I couldn’t believe what he went through when he was four years old, needing to take care of his mother because either she was bleeding or barfing due to her alcohol drinking was bad. Only the worst part was when she passed away and he had to go live with his Uncle Herman, he could not wait fast enough to get out of that house. He believed he never to had a true home, a true family that is until he comes back to Celebration, NY and meets the Callahan family.
Ivy Callahan had a wonderful family but she was about to commit the worst mistake of her life, but I was so glad she did not go through with it. She went off and made a life but then her father had a heart attack and she needed to go back home. Now back home she was voted into the mayor position and she had her work cut out for her. I totally felt bad for her because not only did she have a dysfunctional town council but her ex-fiancé was on it also. Only that was not the only problem going on in Celebration, NY but the unemployment rate had gone up since the closure of Parliament Bakery and she needed to see that a good company bought the property and brought back good paying jobs. Only she was not planning on her high school crush to come waltzing down and make her life a living hell.
The moment that he saw her he needed to find out whom she was but he was looking for the mayor but he got the shock of his life when he found out that Brian Callahan was no longer the mayor but his daughter. From the moment that they met it was as if Ivy was meant to be in Marcus’s embrace not only that but she truly had a potty mouth on her but sorry after reading more I find out from where she got that mouth from. When Herman was introduced and he continued to pop in I disliked him and his way of belittling his grandson. I would think that Marcus being the only family he had he would treat him with kindness and he would quit his drinking. When Marcus tells Ivy that he would like to open a Megamart in Celebration she knows that it can’t happen but she devises a plan. Maybe she can get what she wants from him; he has money that can be used for her renovation of Main Street. Only that she needs to play it smart and Preston, her ex-fiancé, needs to find a buyer for the bakery, him being the planner of the town council. Only when a lie is told it will not be a secret forever but what will happen when Marcus finds out. When Marcus overhears the conversation he can’t believe it but he now has a plan to get what he wants and Herman is going to give him both things. But what will happen when the truth comes out of who Marcus’s father is and how this changes everything. What will happen when Marcus leaves will Ivy finally tell her family that she is in love with him? Will Marcus be able to make the right decision for the sake of the town that holds the love of his life but also his new family?
Ivy Entwined is a breath of fresh air. The family atmosphere is great in this book. One of the characters that really stuck out to me was Ivy’s grandmother Colleen, she is a grandmother that I would love to have had, she had me laughing with her sense of humor. The pacing was excellent and watching Marcus and Ivy relationship grow and watch their desire for each other was excellent. The sense of a small town at times is overwhelming but this one did not seem that way, sure there was a rumor here and there about the non existent relationship between Marcus and Ivy but the towns people looked out for each other. Ms. Simox did an excellent job of building the suspense of what would happen between the two characters and how their life would turn out, sure you know that they will eventually have their happily ever after but this story truly had some turns that were unexpected. The chemistry between Marcus and Ivy is smokin’ hot; the desire that they feel for each other is felt in each touch each kiss. This story is creatively written and this will definitely not be my last read of Ms. Simox.
If you are looking for a read that will have you laughing throughout the read but enjoy each and every page, this read is for you. Pick it up today.
June 25, 2016
4.5 Stars
Ivy Entwined is a delightfully written book that keeps you engaged from beginning to end. The story is nicely paced and the characters are well developed and likeable. The grandmother, Colleen Callahan, is especially memorable because her cursing and antics are absolutely hysterical.
After four years of managing a retirement home in Arizona, Ivy Callahan moves back home to the small town of Celebration, New York. Her dad, the mayor, recently suffered a heart attack and had to step down. Ivy was voted in and now the town's problems are hers as well. To complicate matters, her ex-fiance is the town planner, unemployment is at an all time high because the biggest business in town closed its doors, and until she can find a place of her own, she is living with her parents and her verbally expressive grandmother. In addition, the guy Ivy crushed on all through high school has come back to Celebration with the intention of opening a Megamart, which if approved, would completely ruin what's left of the the downtown district.
Sexy Marcus Weaver is not a huge fan of his hometown. He lived with his always drunk mother in a trailer-park until she died. At the age of fourteen, he went to live with his Uncle Herman, a constantly drinking, crotchety, ornery man, that thought of him as nothing but a hindrance. Needless to say, Marcus couldn't wait to leave Celebration. He worked very hard to become the successful businessman he is today. Building a Megamart is his dream. Unfortunately for Marcus, the new mayor and town council have other ideas in mind to bring the town back to economic prosperity, and a giant discount store is not one of them. However, Marcus is a fighter and a master negotiator and he will do whatever it takes to get his Megamart on the map.
The instant Ivy and Marcus see each other again there is an immediate chemistry. Working together almost daily to rebuild the town, rekindles Ivy's feelings and arouses Marcus's. They share an amazing kiss or two and sparks ignite. Their night of passion is mind-blowing and what was once lust is evolving into love. However, at times, Ivy and Marcus are secretly deceiving each other to get what they want, which turns them into emotional wrecks. Luckily, love conquers all.
I enjoyed this book. There are many twists and surprises throughout the storyline that keep you on the edge of your seat. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Ivy Entwined is a delightfully written book that keeps you engaged from beginning to end. The story is nicely paced and the characters are well developed and likeable. The grandmother, Colleen Callahan, is especially memorable because her cursing and antics are absolutely hysterical.
After four years of managing a retirement home in Arizona, Ivy Callahan moves back home to the small town of Celebration, New York. Her dad, the mayor, recently suffered a heart attack and had to step down. Ivy was voted in and now the town's problems are hers as well. To complicate matters, her ex-fiance is the town planner, unemployment is at an all time high because the biggest business in town closed its doors, and until she can find a place of her own, she is living with her parents and her verbally expressive grandmother. In addition, the guy Ivy crushed on all through high school has come back to Celebration with the intention of opening a Megamart, which if approved, would completely ruin what's left of the the downtown district.
Sexy Marcus Weaver is not a huge fan of his hometown. He lived with his always drunk mother in a trailer-park until she died. At the age of fourteen, he went to live with his Uncle Herman, a constantly drinking, crotchety, ornery man, that thought of him as nothing but a hindrance. Needless to say, Marcus couldn't wait to leave Celebration. He worked very hard to become the successful businessman he is today. Building a Megamart is his dream. Unfortunately for Marcus, the new mayor and town council have other ideas in mind to bring the town back to economic prosperity, and a giant discount store is not one of them. However, Marcus is a fighter and a master negotiator and he will do whatever it takes to get his Megamart on the map.
The instant Ivy and Marcus see each other again there is an immediate chemistry. Working together almost daily to rebuild the town, rekindles Ivy's feelings and arouses Marcus's. They share an amazing kiss or two and sparks ignite. Their night of passion is mind-blowing and what was once lust is evolving into love. However, at times, Ivy and Marcus are secretly deceiving each other to get what they want, which turns them into emotional wrecks. Luckily, love conquers all.
I enjoyed this book. There are many twists and surprises throughout the storyline that keep you on the edge of your seat. I look forward to reading more from this author.
September 23, 2024
4 stars
Don't let the cover deceive you, for Ivy Entwined not a romantic suspense, paranormal, or even erotic romance! This book is a contemporer romance that set in small city, called Celebration (don't know if it exist) and a mix of drama, humor, a little bit angst and a tight community who know each other. Ivy Entwined is a story about Ivy Callahana, the mayor of Celebrate even she still 26 y.o. Now you wonder why a woman so young like Ivy become Mayor and I never see a mayor that in her/his twenties. But well, I'm not live in USA and this is just a fiction, so I will take it. Ivy replace the last major, her father, and now have a plenty of problem in her hand because Celebration need a fresh start from being an almost abandoned city.
Enter Marcus Weaver who are big franchise localist and he want to build Megamart on Celebration even he know the citizens will objects him. Ivy of course decline Marcus's proposal, even Marcus is her teenager's crush. But she offer Marcus to sponsor for the downtown renewal and they become close. Yet, Marcus still insist to build the Megamart, knowing the risk that he will lose Ivy's heart.
Both Ivy and Marcus are lovable characters and I like that I can feel their chemistry. Ivy sure is perfectionist but she has a vulnerable side especially with all problems that become her burden, some are from her annoying ex-fiance (who sometimes can be a comic relief). Marcus is alpha, but not too alpha, and like a fact that he doesn't hesitant to use his charm to won Ivy's heart. He's man of my heart! But, the winner is Ivy's family, the Callahans. Ivy is lucky to have a supportive family, from her own father, than her mother Delia, and last, a granny that I'm sure will won "grandmother's favorite award" if there's any. Colleen like to cuss', even she's so old, but she's so funny and wise. I really want to have granny like her, and I like a fact that family play a large role in this book.
I got the arc of this book July ago and realize that this title just had re-released. While the old cover is silly and have a badcase photoshop, I prefer the old because it's catch the atmosphere of Ivy Entwined. The new cover look too mysterius, too sexy and can be misleading.
Ivy Entwined is simple and perfect if you want to read a light romance story. Also, if you love romance that set in small city, you will love the dynamic that Celebration citizens have.
Thanks to Entangled for provide an e-ARC copy for honest review
Don't let the cover deceive you, for Ivy Entwined not a romantic suspense, paranormal, or even erotic romance! This book is a contemporer romance that set in small city, called Celebration (don't know if it exist) and a mix of drama, humor, a little bit angst and a tight community who know each other. Ivy Entwined is a story about Ivy Callahana, the mayor of Celebrate even she still 26 y.o. Now you wonder why a woman so young like Ivy become Mayor and I never see a mayor that in her/his twenties. But well, I'm not live in USA and this is just a fiction, so I will take it. Ivy replace the last major, her father, and now have a plenty of problem in her hand because Celebration need a fresh start from being an almost abandoned city.
Enter Marcus Weaver who are big franchise localist and he want to build Megamart on Celebration even he know the citizens will objects him. Ivy of course decline Marcus's proposal, even Marcus is her teenager's crush. But she offer Marcus to sponsor for the downtown renewal and they become close. Yet, Marcus still insist to build the Megamart, knowing the risk that he will lose Ivy's heart.
Both Ivy and Marcus are lovable characters and I like that I can feel their chemistry. Ivy sure is perfectionist but she has a vulnerable side especially with all problems that become her burden, some are from her annoying ex-fiance (who sometimes can be a comic relief). Marcus is alpha, but not too alpha, and like a fact that he doesn't hesitant to use his charm to won Ivy's heart. He's man of my heart! But, the winner is Ivy's family, the Callahans. Ivy is lucky to have a supportive family, from her own father, than her mother Delia, and last, a granny that I'm sure will won "grandmother's favorite award" if there's any. Colleen like to cuss', even she's so old, but she's so funny and wise. I really want to have granny like her, and I like a fact that family play a large role in this book.
I got the arc of this book July ago and realize that this title just had re-released. While the old cover is silly and have a badcase photoshop, I prefer the old because it's catch the atmosphere of Ivy Entwined. The new cover look too mysterius, too sexy and can be misleading.
Ivy Entwined is simple and perfect if you want to read a light romance story. Also, if you love romance that set in small city, you will love the dynamic that Celebration citizens have.
Thanks to Entangled for provide an e-ARC copy for honest review
August 20, 2013
I don't read a lot of contemporary romance, but I am very glad I got the ARC of Ivy Entwined! There were definitely some steamy moments, but, more than that, there was a really good story with a lot of heart and warmth to it. I tend to stay away from a lot of contemporary romance because I find that it can be too neat, too easy, too "woman needing a man," too clean, too "boy meets girl and gets girl" for my taste. I liked that this book wasn't like that. The characters were flawed as people, dropped the f-bomb, made mistakes and had their skeletons in their closets. In other words, they were real. Ivy didn't need Marcus, but wanted him. They made bad choices, questionable choices. They weren't perfect, cookie-cutter people and I loved that.
This is most definitely a character-driven story in my opinion. Even aside from the main characters of Ivy and Marcus, there were any number of supporting characters that were truly that... characters. Marcus' uncle Herman was completely NOT a likeable character, but he was memorable. He was a character that made me uncomfortable because he reminded me of someone I know in my own life, but that made him that much more real as a person. Colleen, Ivy's grandmother, was hilarious, dropping the f-bomb every chance she got! I loved her because she loved life, lived it, and didn't give a damn what anyone thought of her.
The one character that truly annoyed me to death was Preston. He was an arrogant jerk who couldn't manage his own life much less anyone else's. His overbearing, assuming attitude drove me insane, as did Ivy's seeming inability to set him straight. That is one thing that I wish she had done more of in the book because letting him get away with some of what he did seemed out of character for her.
On a side note, being from upstate New York, I enjoyed the Central New York references throughout the book! My own hometown could have been Celebration, NY.
Things to love about Ivy Entwined...
--The characters. As I said, they were flawed, real people.
--Colleen. I want to be her when I grow up!
Things I wanted more of...
--Marcus family. I can't go into this without spoilers, but I would like to know more about them. Maybe in future books?!
My recommendation: A fun read that had me alternately laughing, crying and wanting to smack someone! A must read!
This is most definitely a character-driven story in my opinion. Even aside from the main characters of Ivy and Marcus, there were any number of supporting characters that were truly that... characters. Marcus' uncle Herman was completely NOT a likeable character, but he was memorable. He was a character that made me uncomfortable because he reminded me of someone I know in my own life, but that made him that much more real as a person. Colleen, Ivy's grandmother, was hilarious, dropping the f-bomb every chance she got! I loved her because she loved life, lived it, and didn't give a damn what anyone thought of her.
The one character that truly annoyed me to death was Preston. He was an arrogant jerk who couldn't manage his own life much less anyone else's. His overbearing, assuming attitude drove me insane, as did Ivy's seeming inability to set him straight. That is one thing that I wish she had done more of in the book because letting him get away with some of what he did seemed out of character for her.
On a side note, being from upstate New York, I enjoyed the Central New York references throughout the book! My own hometown could have been Celebration, NY.
Things to love about Ivy Entwined...
--The characters. As I said, they were flawed, real people.
--Colleen. I want to be her when I grow up!
Things I wanted more of...
--Marcus family. I can't go into this without spoilers, but I would like to know more about them. Maybe in future books?!
My recommendation: A fun read that had me alternately laughing, crying and wanting to smack someone! A must read!
September 20, 2014
To read this review and others like it check out my site at www.homelovebooks.com
I thought the premise of this book was kind of cute. I don't know about you but I love the idea of small towns, my husband grew up in a small town and he assures me I wouldn't enjoy actually living in one, but in books I love them. I love the added drama element of everyone in town knowing everyones business, I really love it when the town itself becomes its own character in the book, so I had high hopes for this small town. Plus I thought maybe the added element of the future Megamart being built would add for some interesting drama, and the fact that Ivy's ex-fiance is the town planner to Ivy's mayor, just screamed an opportunity for some fun scenes between the two of them.
I would love to say why I thought this book was just okay, but honestly I don't have much of an opinion about it. It's rare that a book doesn't evoke strong feelings in me. Don't get me wrong, in no way did I think this book was bad, because the writing isn't bad at all, I think maybe the characters just didn't speak to me, and I didn't make the kind of connection I usually do with characters.
I do think that there is some truly funny parts within the book, mainly because on character interaction. The town is full of crazy characters, Marcus' uncle and his chicken car comes to mind, and so does Ivy's grandmother who has absolutely no problem with speaking her mind. I think if you enjoy a big cast of characters that how truly loud personalities then this would be a book that you would enjoy.
As for the romance element in the book, Ivy and Marcus doesn't have the kind of chemistry that I normally go for. I didn't feel like they had any kind of magnetic pull to them. But that being said it was an interesting evolution between the two of them, the dynamic between her job and his goals creates for some interesting situations and some miscommunications.
I do think this book easily has an audience, especially people who love small town books, this one definitely fits into that parameter. Unfortunately for me, this book just didn't work for me the way I wanted it to. The writing is good though, so if the synopsis speaks to you, you should think about checking this book out.
I thought the premise of this book was kind of cute. I don't know about you but I love the idea of small towns, my husband grew up in a small town and he assures me I wouldn't enjoy actually living in one, but in books I love them. I love the added drama element of everyone in town knowing everyones business, I really love it when the town itself becomes its own character in the book, so I had high hopes for this small town. Plus I thought maybe the added element of the future Megamart being built would add for some interesting drama, and the fact that Ivy's ex-fiance is the town planner to Ivy's mayor, just screamed an opportunity for some fun scenes between the two of them.
I would love to say why I thought this book was just okay, but honestly I don't have much of an opinion about it. It's rare that a book doesn't evoke strong feelings in me. Don't get me wrong, in no way did I think this book was bad, because the writing isn't bad at all, I think maybe the characters just didn't speak to me, and I didn't make the kind of connection I usually do with characters.
I do think that there is some truly funny parts within the book, mainly because on character interaction. The town is full of crazy characters, Marcus' uncle and his chicken car comes to mind, and so does Ivy's grandmother who has absolutely no problem with speaking her mind. I think if you enjoy a big cast of characters that how truly loud personalities then this would be a book that you would enjoy.
As for the romance element in the book, Ivy and Marcus doesn't have the kind of chemistry that I normally go for. I didn't feel like they had any kind of magnetic pull to them. But that being said it was an interesting evolution between the two of them, the dynamic between her job and his goals creates for some interesting situations and some miscommunications.
I do think this book easily has an audience, especially people who love small town books, this one definitely fits into that parameter. Unfortunately for me, this book just didn't work for me the way I wanted it to. The writing is good though, so if the synopsis speaks to you, you should think about checking this book out.
September 5, 2013
***Received from Entangled Publishing for an honest review***
Marcus Weaver returns to his hometown of Celebration, NY, for one reason: build a Megamart there. He left Celebration years ago with no intention of ever returning. After all, why would he go back to a place filled with bad memories? Yet his drive to climb the corporate ladder does just that. He figures there might be a little opposition to building a big box company like his there, but he doesn't count on the opposition coming from Ivy Callahan, the former mayor's daughter who just happens to be Celebration's current mayor.
Ivy's return to Celebration comes on the heels of her father suffering a heart attack. As the town's new mayor, she knows she has her work cut out for her. There's a shortage of jobs and a high unemployment rate she needs to tackle first, which is hard to do when the city council is in shreds, her ex-fiance is the town planner, and the only man with a seemingly sound enough plan to help provide good-paying jobs for the good townsfolk of Celebration is her high school crush, Marcus Weaver.
This was a delightfully hilarious romance. I loved Ms. Simcox's humor that translates into the narrative, thoughts, and dialogue of the characters. It helped me appreciate small town life, which could have easily been overshadowed by small town politics. But in a place where everyone knows everyone, and secrets are unheard of, small town politics and drama are going to be more obvious than if the story had been set in a big city somewhere.
I enjoyed watching Marcus and Ivy's relationship develop despite their backgrounds, their agendas, and the forces working against them. And I really liked how the chemistry between them went from sparks to a red-hot fire.
While "Ivy Entwined" isn't a book I'd normally read, I'm so glad I said yes to reviewing it. Thank you, Ms. Simcox, for bringing to life amazing characters who have an equally amazing story that just had to be told.
Marcus Weaver returns to his hometown of Celebration, NY, for one reason: build a Megamart there. He left Celebration years ago with no intention of ever returning. After all, why would he go back to a place filled with bad memories? Yet his drive to climb the corporate ladder does just that. He figures there might be a little opposition to building a big box company like his there, but he doesn't count on the opposition coming from Ivy Callahan, the former mayor's daughter who just happens to be Celebration's current mayor.
Ivy's return to Celebration comes on the heels of her father suffering a heart attack. As the town's new mayor, she knows she has her work cut out for her. There's a shortage of jobs and a high unemployment rate she needs to tackle first, which is hard to do when the city council is in shreds, her ex-fiance is the town planner, and the only man with a seemingly sound enough plan to help provide good-paying jobs for the good townsfolk of Celebration is her high school crush, Marcus Weaver.
This was a delightfully hilarious romance. I loved Ms. Simcox's humor that translates into the narrative, thoughts, and dialogue of the characters. It helped me appreciate small town life, which could have easily been overshadowed by small town politics. But in a place where everyone knows everyone, and secrets are unheard of, small town politics and drama are going to be more obvious than if the story had been set in a big city somewhere.
I enjoyed watching Marcus and Ivy's relationship develop despite their backgrounds, their agendas, and the forces working against them. And I really liked how the chemistry between them went from sparks to a red-hot fire.
While "Ivy Entwined" isn't a book I'd normally read, I'm so glad I said yes to reviewing it. Thank you, Ms. Simcox, for bringing to life amazing characters who have an equally amazing story that just had to be told.
September 5, 2013
In a word this story is rather dull – it’s one that’s been done over and over again in Lifetime Christmas movies time and time again…sure the stories may have been flip flopped with the big wig aka Marcus being the female lead and the man aka Ivy being the small town hero returned, finding themselves thrust into a situation they never expected. Ivy and Marcus this time take the reins and run with the story. Whether it was Ivy doing everything she could to fight Marcus’ pursuit of her romantically or her underhanded way of swinging the town council’s vote away from Megamart? Or Marcus doing everything he could to pursue Ivy, deceive her family and the town, all the while trying to decipher his Uncle’s semi-coded lies. The politics of the situation in this story is what turned me off more than anything, I found myself struggling to find something to latch onto – could it be the love triangle between Ivy-Marcus-Preston? Or Herman’s drunkenness and the mystery of a “secret” he’s hiding? Or Ivy’s Mother and Grandmother’s meddling in her relationship that make them endearing? I have yet to decide. In the end Marcus and Ivy’s relations hip takes a backseat to the Megamart-Celebration-Parliament Bakery problems.
The author’s style of writing and the detail in which she described everything in Celebration made it so that I could place myself right in the town square, inside the Callahan home, or in Herman’s decrepit Victorian. She built a back story and history to the characters that tied them all together smoothly and integrated each history into the story and why each individual found themselves not wanting Megamart to come to Celebration. The story itself was told perfectly! I just wish that there was more to it than an overdone theme from just about every poor Christmas movie ever made.
The author’s style of writing and the detail in which she described everything in Celebration made it so that I could place myself right in the town square, inside the Callahan home, or in Herman’s decrepit Victorian. She built a back story and history to the characters that tied them all together smoothly and integrated each history into the story and why each individual found themselves not wanting Megamart to come to Celebration. The story itself was told perfectly! I just wish that there was more to it than an overdone theme from just about every poor Christmas movie ever made.
August 27, 2013
Every so often, everyone needs a little taste of small town sweetness, and this book definitely has it. As I'm from a small town myself, I can easily understand how quickly the rumour mill can pump out information that you would normally never want someone to know, so I found the insane speed that the town learned all about anything that Ivy and Marcus were up to, strangely easily believable. I can remember a few times in my past where I wasn't even able to get all the way home before my family had already heard all about my day's adventures, so seeing this small town in action really made me feel a bit homesick for my own small town.
As far as the characters went, this book has a fantastic cast. Not only are Ivy and Marcus well developed and easy to root for, I found favourites in some of the oddest places. Ivy's grandmother! Wow, is that lady a firecracker! I absolutely loved her grandmother and all her foul-mouthed quirkiness. I also found Preston strangely appealing. Even with his priviledged attitude, it seemed as if there was a little bit more behind his story that just wasn't yet told. Out of everyone, I really hope to read more about Preston, if nothing else but to crack his elitist attitude.
The story line in this book is solid, and as many other Entangled books, has a feeling as if this story could actually happen. This is a quality that I look forward to whenever I pick up an Entangled book, and I was not disappointed. The characters are normal people. They have normal problems, and they have their flaws, just as we all do.
Overall, this is book is a fun contemporary romance that I would recommend to any of my romantic readers.
Note: I received a free copy of this book for honest review.
As far as the characters went, this book has a fantastic cast. Not only are Ivy and Marcus well developed and easy to root for, I found favourites in some of the oddest places. Ivy's grandmother! Wow, is that lady a firecracker! I absolutely loved her grandmother and all her foul-mouthed quirkiness. I also found Preston strangely appealing. Even with his priviledged attitude, it seemed as if there was a little bit more behind his story that just wasn't yet told. Out of everyone, I really hope to read more about Preston, if nothing else but to crack his elitist attitude.
The story line in this book is solid, and as many other Entangled books, has a feeling as if this story could actually happen. This is a quality that I look forward to whenever I pick up an Entangled book, and I was not disappointed. The characters are normal people. They have normal problems, and they have their flaws, just as we all do.
Overall, this is book is a fun contemporary romance that I would recommend to any of my romantic readers.
Note: I received a free copy of this book for honest review.
July 26, 2014
This certainly is just like the title says something to celebrate so that once you start this novel you find it is just the kind of read to lighten anyone's day. This novel has such wonderful characters with combine that with a storyline that is filled with romance, humor and mischief. Marcus comes into his hometown to fulfill a dream of his that he has worked hard for. This town is also a dying breed that he will soon find out though that others are striving to pump new life into it also. Up against the new mayor will have challenges of their own especially so too being Ivy has stepped into some big shoes to fill her father's. With two separate ideas on how this is to be accomplished they begin to barter on the solution. Each with their own solution they will strive to do whatever they can to see theirs is the solution chosen or in acted. Love also though has a agenda that includes pairing these two together for a different result than they expect. Also for our reading pleasure are some great characters that also fill this novel to give it the ump it has. So enjoyed the interaction of these two that would have me chuckling at times along with some of the others like those on the council. Funny though when you strive to use someone for your own agenda it will usually bite you in the butt later as depicted happens in this novel will open their eyes to what really is important. A surprise kicker will be revealed between Marcus and one other that happens to be Ivy's ex fiancee. All and all quite delighted with how everything will come together to be taking the time to read this one which also lightened the day along the way. Received a arc for a honest review.
August 28, 2013
This book is about a whole town named Celebration and while it focuses on the blossoming relationship of Mayor Ivy Callahan and small town boy who made good Marcus Weaver the WHOLE book is full of wonderful townspeople and family members who compliment the story line. I was laughing at the colorful salty language of Ivy's mom and especially her grandma Colleen who spoke her mind every time she felt like it and Marcus even fell under their spell and while Ivy had to act proper as the mayor cuss words still peppered her dialogue at inopportune times.
I loved how Ivy struggled to save the economics of the town to put people back to work but tried to outwit Marcus who wants to open a Megamart. She knows it won't work long term but comes up with a plan to make him understand it is more than just economics and paychecks that are on the line.
Celebration was nearly a character in itself as the town was charming and the diner was central to the story and none of the townspeople held their input back once Marcus presents his plan for economic recovery.
The writer has a great comedic tone throughout and never lets go of the humorous side of the stress of being mayor and having everyone watching you at work and in your personal life outside of elected office.
When Marcus learns his true heritage I wanted another book to expand on his life and how he would deal with the news. I loved this book and I received an advanced reading copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I loved how Ivy struggled to save the economics of the town to put people back to work but tried to outwit Marcus who wants to open a Megamart. She knows it won't work long term but comes up with a plan to make him understand it is more than just economics and paychecks that are on the line.
Celebration was nearly a character in itself as the town was charming and the diner was central to the story and none of the townspeople held their input back once Marcus presents his plan for economic recovery.
The writer has a great comedic tone throughout and never lets go of the humorous side of the stress of being mayor and having everyone watching you at work and in your personal life outside of elected office.
When Marcus learns his true heritage I wanted another book to expand on his life and how he would deal with the news. I loved this book and I received an advanced reading copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2014
Ivy Entwined, Laura Simcox
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I thought this sounded fun. It was one of those though that's an OK book, a decent read, well written and yet didn't quite make any more that that for me...I'm looking for drama, emotion, a storyline that tugs at me. I need to like the characters too and here I just didn't quite belive in them. Marcus seems to get the flack for deceit and yet Ivy was doing the same thing so I couldn't see why she was so righteous....
Clearly town planning in US is different to here in UK, as it takes years sometimes for new stores to get passed. We've had our own Megamart style battle here – all the same arguments trotted out as Ivy and co give against Megamart – it took fourteen years for Tesco to get permission in our town, and yet here in the book its done in days? Ditto the land sales/exchanges – here it takes weeks and papaers in mutliple copies, there its just a simple pop in to office and its done...Still, maybe its just artistic licence? Whatever it was, it lead to a feeling of unreality for me, when I need to feel the story is real. I did like the chemistry between Marcus and Ivy and that certainly brought some heat and action to the story and the twist at the end – I didn't see that coming.
Stars: three, its a decent read but not one to really get the heart racing for me. Still, if you like simple small town romance this could be a winner for you.
ARC supplied via Netgalley and Entangled publishing.
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I thought this sounded fun. It was one of those though that's an OK book, a decent read, well written and yet didn't quite make any more that that for me...I'm looking for drama, emotion, a storyline that tugs at me. I need to like the characters too and here I just didn't quite belive in them. Marcus seems to get the flack for deceit and yet Ivy was doing the same thing so I couldn't see why she was so righteous....
Clearly town planning in US is different to here in UK, as it takes years sometimes for new stores to get passed. We've had our own Megamart style battle here – all the same arguments trotted out as Ivy and co give against Megamart – it took fourteen years for Tesco to get permission in our town, and yet here in the book its done in days? Ditto the land sales/exchanges – here it takes weeks and papaers in mutliple copies, there its just a simple pop in to office and its done...Still, maybe its just artistic licence? Whatever it was, it lead to a feeling of unreality for me, when I need to feel the story is real. I did like the chemistry between Marcus and Ivy and that certainly brought some heat and action to the story and the twist at the end – I didn't see that coming.
Stars: three, its a decent read but not one to really get the heart racing for me. Still, if you like simple small town romance this could be a winner for you.
ARC supplied via Netgalley and Entangled publishing.
September 9, 2013
I love this book.I waiting from some book like this.And finally I found it.I finish it in 2 days.It was so fun read this book.
So, Ivy Callahan returns home as a mayor of the town Celebration.She run from this town in the past and from her fiancé,to find her self.But she returns home because her father needs her.
Marcus it is a boy who his mother died,and dint`t know his father.So he stays with his uncle who treats him nasty.He goes from Celebration to find himself and became a great man.So he returns in town with the proposal to build a Megamart.He knows that it will became the destruction of his hometown,but it seems to don`t care.
HE has a shock when he finds out that the mayor of this town it is not Ivy`s father,but Ivy herself.But,anyway he make the proposal to her and it will do anything to make it happened.But what he did not know it is that Ivy,many years ago had a crush on him.And it seems to continue now too.So it will take advantage on this,or things are gone change and fall in love?
This book it is so awesome,I dint`t expect to like it so much,because I thought it is a tipical story of love.It is but has more of that.Has that spark that captures you from the beginning.And the humor.I`m so in love with Ivy`s grandma.It is the funniest person on the book.I want a grandma like that.Anyway,you have to read this book.You will not regret it.
So, Ivy Callahan returns home as a mayor of the town Celebration.She run from this town in the past and from her fiancé,to find her self.But she returns home because her father needs her.
Marcus it is a boy who his mother died,and dint`t know his father.So he stays with his uncle who treats him nasty.He goes from Celebration to find himself and became a great man.So he returns in town with the proposal to build a Megamart.He knows that it will became the destruction of his hometown,but it seems to don`t care.
HE has a shock when he finds out that the mayor of this town it is not Ivy`s father,but Ivy herself.But,anyway he make the proposal to her and it will do anything to make it happened.But what he did not know it is that Ivy,many years ago had a crush on him.And it seems to continue now too.So it will take advantage on this,or things are gone change and fall in love?
This book it is so awesome,I dint`t expect to like it so much,because I thought it is a tipical story of love.It is but has more of that.Has that spark that captures you from the beginning.And the humor.I`m so in love with Ivy`s grandma.It is the funniest person on the book.I want a grandma like that.Anyway,you have to read this book.You will not regret it.
July 31, 2014
You will enjoy this unique contemporary read of Ivy and Marcus.
Ivy is town major and is taking over job for her father. The towns financial issues are a main concern for her; but in walks her secret crush Marcus from years go- but can he help them?
Marcus returns home to build and make something for himself.. hoping someone can help him but can that person be trustworthy? When he wants to speak to the major he runs into a beautiful woman and he's quite interested in her.. maybe he can help her and in return she can do the same?
These two are fabulous together. Interesting sassy and sexy. You will laugh because of them and be frustrated with them as well.
You will love Ivy's adoration and faith/love she has for her hometown and family.
You will enjoy and truly love Marcus's personality and determination to make his dreams become reality.
The characters are amazing but there are few omissions and lies between them.....
Ivy's family is equally amazing as is her fabulous cursing GRANDMOTHER!! She's a hoot!!
The ending was amazing. If you love small town contemporary romances with drama this book is for you!
4 stars from me.
*Recv'd a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Ivy is town major and is taking over job for her father. The towns financial issues are a main concern for her; but in walks her secret crush Marcus from years go- but can he help them?
Marcus returns home to build and make something for himself.. hoping someone can help him but can that person be trustworthy? When he wants to speak to the major he runs into a beautiful woman and he's quite interested in her.. maybe he can help her and in return she can do the same?
These two are fabulous together. Interesting sassy and sexy. You will laugh because of them and be frustrated with them as well.
You will love Ivy's adoration and faith/love she has for her hometown and family.
You will enjoy and truly love Marcus's personality and determination to make his dreams become reality.
The characters are amazing but there are few omissions and lies between them.....
Ivy's family is equally amazing as is her fabulous cursing GRANDMOTHER!! She's a hoot!!
The ending was amazing. If you love small town contemporary romances with drama this book is for you!
4 stars from me.
*Recv'd a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
August 30, 2013
Celebration, a small town in New York, has been hard hit by the loss of their major business, Parliment Bakery. Ivy Callahan, the new mayor, is trying to revitalize the downtown. Marcus Weaver, who lived here when he was in high school, has come to save the town by building a Megamart. This is not what Ivy or the town want. They may be at odds over the Megamart, but their attraction is to hot to ignore. Can you mix business with pleasure? Nothing is ever simple when love and duty collide. I love Ivy and Marcus. They are both feisty, determined and honorable. When they are together sparks fly and romance is in the air. The people in this small town are real and very engaging. I laughed out loud when Marcus arrived in town in his Uncle's chicken car and ended up pushing it down to city hall. What a first impression! Ivy Entwined is tender, touching and very funny. This book is a keeper. Laura Simcox has a wonderful way with words that captivates that reader.
July 20, 2014
I love books where the characters are real and have me laughing out so loud that my husband thinks I've lost my mind. Grandma is one of those characters with a foul mouth, knows all the town gossip,, and can't keep her nose out of Ivy's personal life.
Ivy comes home to me the mayor after her fathers heart attract and finds the town has some real issues. Enter Marcus. He's there to built a huge story that the town doesn't want.
So ivy is attracted to Marcus ...who's attracted to Ivy who has to deal with her ex Preston andyet the author has a final surprise near the end of the story for us.
There is laughs to be had....a love story that forms quickly and a wonderfully written story that will have you reading until you can no longer focus.
Ivy comes home to me the mayor after her fathers heart attract and finds the town has some real issues. Enter Marcus. He's there to built a huge story that the town doesn't want.
So ivy is attracted to Marcus ...who's attracted to Ivy who has to deal with her ex Preston andyet the author has a final surprise near the end of the story for us.
There is laughs to be had....a love story that forms quickly and a wonderfully written story that will have you reading until you can no longer focus.
January 25, 2016
Oh sometimes you get a book and it's just good. Not bad not okay but good. Ivy returns home to step in as Mayor to find her ex fiance on the planning committee and her childhood crush trying to build a huge megastore. The townsfolk are up in arms and she's doing everything she can to make it right.
Marcus didn't grow up in an easy way and you can't help but love him and feel for him. Ivy is a perfectionist and has some vulnerability to her. IT makes the characters likable and the story engaging, but what gets me the most? Ivy's Grandmother. She really steals the show and keeps you into it. Her opinions make you laugh and I have to say sometimes it's the secondary characters that keep you hooked.
Marcus didn't grow up in an easy way and you can't help but love him and feel for him. Ivy is a perfectionist and has some vulnerability to her. IT makes the characters likable and the story engaging, but what gets me the most? Ivy's Grandmother. She really steals the show and keeps you into it. Her opinions make you laugh and I have to say sometimes it's the secondary characters that keep you hooked.
September 7, 2013
Ivy Entwined by Laura Simcox is a well-written story of love, lies, and deception. At first everything seemed rather straight forward as Marcus returned home to open a Megamart in Celebration, New York. Ivy had a crush on Marcus when she was young. After he returned to his hometown they were instantly attracted to each other. Does this storyline sound familiar or somewhat predictable? That’s what I thought Read More
I received an E-ARC of Ivy Entwined from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
I received an E-ARC of Ivy Entwined from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
September 7, 2013
****Received ARC in exchange for honest review****
Ivy Entwined is different….it took me awhile to get into the story and there were still times I wanted to stop reading; however I’m one of those people who refuses to give up on a book. There were things about Ivy Entwined that I liked and things that I didn’t. It was a cute story but at times it was just kind of boring. I enjoyed some of the characters a lot but the storyline did not fit my taste and that may be why I personally did not like it.
I give it 3 1/2 stars
Ivy Entwined is different….it took me awhile to get into the story and there were still times I wanted to stop reading; however I’m one of those people who refuses to give up on a book. There were things about Ivy Entwined that I liked and things that I didn’t. It was a cute story but at times it was just kind of boring. I enjoyed some of the characters a lot but the storyline did not fit my taste and that may be why I personally did not like it.
I give it 3 1/2 stars
July 27, 2014
This was a cute story between Ivy and Marcus. I enjoyed both characters. Ivy was a spitfire, which I love. Marcus was hot, down to earth and seemed genuine. Any man who shows his emotion is one I will become a fan of. The supporting characters, for me, stole the show. Gramma as well as Ivy's parents were hilarious and delivered the swift kick in the rear that Ivy and Marcus needed at times. The story was a slower read but held my interest to the end.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2013
I loved the characters in this book. I laughed out loud so many times. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because in my option the storyline could have been clued up way before the end. It seemed to drag on for me. But still funny.
August 28, 2013
This book made me wish I lived in a town like Celebration. This book made me smile and laugh.
September 5, 2013
3.5 stars
review to come
review to come
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