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Chapel Springs #3
The Wishing Season
Living side-by-side, a fledgling chef and a big-hearted contractor find a delicious attraction.
Trouble is, their chemistry could spoil their dreams.
Spirited PJ McKinley has the touch when it comes to food. Her dream of opening her own restaurant is just one building short of reality. So when a Chapel Springs resident offers her beloved ancestral home to the applicant with the best plan for the house, PJ believes it’s a contest she was meant to win.
Contractor Cole Evans is confident, professional, and swoon-worthy—but this former foster kid knows his life could have turned out very differently. When Cole discovers the contest, he believes his home for foster kids in transition has found its saving grace. All he has to do is convince the owner that an out-of-towner with a not-for-profit enterprise is good for the community.
But when the eccentric philanthropist sees PJ and Cole’s proposals, she makes an unexpected decision: the pair will share the house for a year to show what their ideas are made of. Now, with Cole and the foster kids upstairs and PJ and the restaurant below, day-to-day life has turned into out-and-out competition—with some seriously flirtatious hallway encounters on the side. Turns out in this competition, it’s not just the house on the line, it’s their hearts.
Trouble is, their chemistry could spoil their dreams.
Spirited PJ McKinley has the touch when it comes to food. Her dream of opening her own restaurant is just one building short of reality. So when a Chapel Springs resident offers her beloved ancestral home to the applicant with the best plan for the house, PJ believes it’s a contest she was meant to win.
Contractor Cole Evans is confident, professional, and swoon-worthy—but this former foster kid knows his life could have turned out very differently. When Cole discovers the contest, he believes his home for foster kids in transition has found its saving grace. All he has to do is convince the owner that an out-of-towner with a not-for-profit enterprise is good for the community.
But when the eccentric philanthropist sees PJ and Cole’s proposals, she makes an unexpected decision: the pair will share the house for a year to show what their ideas are made of. Now, with Cole and the foster kids upstairs and PJ and the restaurant below, day-to-day life has turned into out-and-out competition—with some seriously flirtatious hallway encounters on the side. Turns out in this competition, it’s not just the house on the line, it’s their hearts.
336 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2014
82 people are currently reading
1795 people want to read
About the author
Denise Hunter
85 books4,700 followersDenise Hunter is the award-winning author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been adapted into Hallmark movies.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 296 reviews
December 10, 2017
P.J. McKinley, the youngest of the McKinley clan is anxious to prove herself. Fresh out of culinary school, she jumps at the opportunity to compete for the Wishing House, ideal for a Bistro and B & B. Much to her surprise she finds herself in competition with Cole Evans, desiring to use the house as a stepping stone for foster kids who have aged out of the system but need a place to stay in order to finish high school and gain valuable life skills. They immediately clash, but the chemistry is palpable. Despite their obvious attraction, they each carry baggage about their pasts. Add to that the competition for the Wishing House that concludes in a year's time, the tensions mount. Despite the obstacles, P.J. and Cole can't help their developing feelings for one another, and must decide what is truly important.
A sweet, clean romance with a great message of hope and not allowing the past to define the future.
Can't wait to read book four.
A sweet, clean romance with a great message of hope and not allowing the past to define the future.
Can't wait to read book four.
August 12, 2015
Wonderful book! I had a very hard time putting it down. And I absolutely loved the characters.
Can't wait to read the next book! :)
Can't wait to read the next book! :)
May 18, 2015
The Wishing Season is the third book in the Chapel Springs series -- a series I have been loving! I had high expectations for the story, since the last book (Dancing With Fireflies) was an all-time favorite read of mine...and, while it didn't eclipse that book, I did still love The Wishing Season!
The story was so good! I loved how P.J. and Cole first met (let's just say it was a "smashing" scene) and the way they had to share the house on a trial basis for their business dreams. I also loved the characters and how jealous and protective Cole was towards P.J.
All in all, a fantastic read! I can't wait to read Married 'Til Monday, the next Chapel Springs book. I recommend this series if you enjoy contemporary romance.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
The story was so good! I loved how P.J. and Cole first met (let's just say it was a "smashing" scene) and the way they had to share the house on a trial basis for their business dreams. I also loved the characters and how jealous and protective Cole was towards P.J.
All in all, a fantastic read! I can't wait to read Married 'Til Monday, the next Chapel Springs book. I recommend this series if you enjoy contemporary romance.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
October 14, 2021
I totally enjoyed this book! I was rooting for PJ and Cole from start to finish. Awesome story!
August 20, 2015
I was astonished by this book! I have never read this author and kind of went into this book a little skeptical. I came out in love with the main characters. I loved the development you saw in PJ and Cole throughout this book. I loved the small moments of laughter that I had sitting alone in my room probably looking like a crazy person as I became connected with these characters. I would definitely this commend this book and cannot wait to read more of her books.
December 1, 2014
I brought this novel along on our family vacation and proceeded to read it poolside. Despite the wintry scene on the cover, the story actually takes place over the course of a year in the quaint town of Chapel Springs, Indiana. This Hoosier native enjoyed the chosen setting as well as a nod to my hometown of Indianapolis and our Colts! Denise did a beautiful job of capturing the appeal of small town USA.
From the start, PJ and Cole's dreams set them at odds with one another. Evangeline Wishing Simmons has the ability to make both of their dreams come true by gifting them her family estate - a century old historic home. However, when she cannot decide a winner, she concocts a plan for them to share the house for a year. The run-off competition forces the main characters to to meld their ideas. PJ renovates the bottom floor into a gourmet restaurant, while Cole makes the necessary adjustments to the upstairs in order to accommodate four kids who have aged out of foster care. A storm of emotions brews when these two competitors move in under the same roof. Before the year is up they both acknowledge an underlying attraction for one another. Forcing them to decide between their feelings for one another and the dreams they hold dear.
Denise Hunter's cast of characters was interesting to me. Cole's character was very conflicted but it worked well to express the grief and guilt which he carried from his childhood. I was charmed by PJ's spunky and driven personality. Her family was large, but I didn't see how mentioning each member in such detail added to the story given the minimal roles they played. On the other hand, I wish the author had devoted more ink to the foster kids and perhaps allowed them to participate more in the running of the house over the course of the year. That would have added an interesting layer to the story which would have endeared them to me. Regardless, the turbulent romance between Cole and PJ shines with moments of heartache and sweet tenderness.
I give The Wishing Season 4/5 stars.
This has been a year of literary firsts for me, The Wishing Season being the first book that I've read by author Denise Hunter. I was fortunate enough to win this book from the author and I am delighted to share my review with you.
From the start, PJ and Cole's dreams set them at odds with one another. Evangeline Wishing Simmons has the ability to make both of their dreams come true by gifting them her family estate - a century old historic home. However, when she cannot decide a winner, she concocts a plan for them to share the house for a year. The run-off competition forces the main characters to to meld their ideas. PJ renovates the bottom floor into a gourmet restaurant, while Cole makes the necessary adjustments to the upstairs in order to accommodate four kids who have aged out of foster care. A storm of emotions brews when these two competitors move in under the same roof. Before the year is up they both acknowledge an underlying attraction for one another. Forcing them to decide between their feelings for one another and the dreams they hold dear.
Denise Hunter's cast of characters was interesting to me. Cole's character was very conflicted but it worked well to express the grief and guilt which he carried from his childhood. I was charmed by PJ's spunky and driven personality. Her family was large, but I didn't see how mentioning each member in such detail added to the story given the minimal roles they played. On the other hand, I wish the author had devoted more ink to the foster kids and perhaps allowed them to participate more in the running of the house over the course of the year. That would have added an interesting layer to the story which would have endeared them to me. Regardless, the turbulent romance between Cole and PJ shines with moments of heartache and sweet tenderness.
I give The Wishing Season 4/5 stars.
This has been a year of literary firsts for me, The Wishing Season being the first book that I've read by author Denise Hunter. I was fortunate enough to win this book from the author and I am delighted to share my review with you.
December 29, 2022
I really liked this book. PJ was a bubbly, talkative, and driven heroine, eager to prove that she was capable of succeeding to her family and to herself. She was so likeable and a breath of fresh air. I also readily sympathized with her need to be taken seriously.
In contrast, Cole was a quiet, broody, protective, and kind hero. Understandably, he comes across, at first, as guarded - a byproduct of his former years in the foster care system. As the story progressed, I definitely saw his capacity to love deeply and protect those he cared about. Although Cole struggled with a serious internal conflict that impacted his relationship with PJ negatively, I couldn't be mad at him because my heart went out to him and the emotional turmoil he felt about his past.
Both of their personalities complemented each other well and their chemistry was sizzling, too. I loved how their rivalry bloomed into friendship and then something more. The setting of PJ's restaurant and Cole's transitional foster home was fascinating to read about and experience, too.
Since this book took place over the course of a year, it felt very start-and-stop in areas. But overall, it was an engaging, sweet, and heartwarming read. I would recommend this book.
Disclaimer: This book is not a Christmas story. It's an easy mistake to make, given the title and the outfits of the cover models. As stated before, the book took place over the course of a year, with the holidays briefly mentioned. Of course, this book was still a great read, but don't expect mistletoe kisses or charming snowball fights.
In contrast, Cole was a quiet, broody, protective, and kind hero. Understandably, he comes across, at first, as guarded - a byproduct of his former years in the foster care system. As the story progressed, I definitely saw his capacity to love deeply and protect those he cared about. Although Cole struggled with a serious internal conflict that impacted his relationship with PJ negatively, I couldn't be mad at him because my heart went out to him and the emotional turmoil he felt about his past.
Both of their personalities complemented each other well and their chemistry was sizzling, too. I loved how their rivalry bloomed into friendship and then something more. The setting of PJ's restaurant and Cole's transitional foster home was fascinating to read about and experience, too.
Since this book took place over the course of a year, it felt very start-and-stop in areas. But overall, it was an engaging, sweet, and heartwarming read. I would recommend this book.
Disclaimer: This book is not a Christmas story. It's an easy mistake to make, given the title and the outfits of the cover models. As stated before, the book took place over the course of a year, with the holidays briefly mentioned. Of course, this book was still a great read, but don't expect mistletoe kisses or charming snowball fights.
December 27, 2022
Ohmigosh!! This book was so so good. Pj and Cole are adorable. Cole is such a sweetheart. I loved Pj. She was so bubbly,kind,and passionate. Her restaurant sounded amazing,and I though it was so cool she was a chef because I haven’t read many books with chefs. Cole and his Foster house was so heart-warming to read about. The cover is so cute,and I can’t wait to read the last book in the series,but sad it’s going to end. Denise Hunter’s writing is amazing. I highly recommend.
August 25, 2020
This book once again focuses on the McKinley siblings with the spotlight on the youngest, PJ. PJ has just finished her culinary classes and is now a full fledged chef. She wants to start her own restaurant but doesn't have the funds. When an elderly widow decides to give her huge home, The Wishing House, to someone in a competition, PJ feels this is her chance. But Cole Evans wants the house also to use for a transition home for young adults who are aging out of foster care. Little did they know what plan Mrs. Wishing would come up with to decide who would win the competition.
Clean, easy to read romance, that involves all of the McKinley family as well as their spouses. Wonderful series for those who like contemporary Christian romance.
Clean, easy to read romance, that involves all of the McKinley family as well as their spouses. Wonderful series for those who like contemporary Christian romance.
January 16, 2015
This is the third book in the Chapel Springs series, but can stand on it's own. That's one of the things I enjoy about Ms. Hunter's series, the characters may overlap, but the books can each stand on their own.
PJ is the youngest in her family and her family tends to baby her because of it. She wants to prove to them and herself that she can make it on her own. She just finished college and wants to open her own restaurant and B&B. She enters a contest to win an old Victorian house in her hometown with plans to convert it. There is another contender with his eyes on the place. Cole has had a rough life and wants to help others, particularly kids that have grown up in foster care and that need a transitional place to stay when they turn eighteen and are no longer eligible for foster care. It is sad that they don't have something in place for these kids, a better way to help them transition from foster care to the "real world."
I liked PJ and Cole quite a bit. They have the whole "opposites attract" going for them. PJ is very upbeat and positive, jabbers away like crazy. While Cole is the silent broody type. They were really fun together, I liked their chemistry. I liked that their story takes place over a long time period, a year or so. It was nice seeing them go from enemies trying to win the house for their own dreams, to becoming friends and eventually more. They have quite a few ups and downs throughout their relationship.
Overall, it was a fun read. Hunter's books weave lighthearted with a touch of drama. She manages to do the combination well and I always have a hard time putting down her books. It was fun seeing PJ's family again and I want to read her brothers story next (Married 'til Monday.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: None-Mild
Religious: Moderate, not overly preachy, pretty subtle and true to characters
Source: Received complimentary copy from publisher for honest review.
This has been nominated for a 2015 Swoony Award, you can vote for it here.
PJ is the youngest in her family and her family tends to baby her because of it. She wants to prove to them and herself that she can make it on her own. She just finished college and wants to open her own restaurant and B&B. She enters a contest to win an old Victorian house in her hometown with plans to convert it. There is another contender with his eyes on the place. Cole has had a rough life and wants to help others, particularly kids that have grown up in foster care and that need a transitional place to stay when they turn eighteen and are no longer eligible for foster care. It is sad that they don't have something in place for these kids, a better way to help them transition from foster care to the "real world."
I liked PJ and Cole quite a bit. They have the whole "opposites attract" going for them. PJ is very upbeat and positive, jabbers away like crazy. While Cole is the silent broody type. They were really fun together, I liked their chemistry. I liked that their story takes place over a long time period, a year or so. It was nice seeing them go from enemies trying to win the house for their own dreams, to becoming friends and eventually more. They have quite a few ups and downs throughout their relationship.
Overall, it was a fun read. Hunter's books weave lighthearted with a touch of drama. She manages to do the combination well and I always have a hard time putting down her books. It was fun seeing PJ's family again and I want to read her brothers story next (Married 'til Monday.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: None-Mild
Religious: Moderate, not overly preachy, pretty subtle and true to characters
Source: Received complimentary copy from publisher for honest review.
This has been nominated for a 2015 Swoony Award, you can vote for it here.
January 7, 2015
Please note: A fainting couch is essential for this read due to copious swoonworthy scenes scattered throughout the book. Be. Still. My. Heart. PJ and Cole made a huge impact on me. And their first meet? Hysterical. Especially PJ. Hunter has a brilliant talent for fleshing out the essence of a character in only a few pages. I felt like I knew PJ (and loved her) in a all of a nanosecond.
Talk about opposites attract -- only Cole and PJ don't at first. Or pretend they don't. They come from different worlds, their lives riddled with diverse experiences but at the core they are both struggling with deep issues of self-worth and a determination to prove themselves. Talk about upping the angst because they both need to win this competition. I mean really need to win. My heart was all aflutter the whole read trying to figure out how that was even possible.
This is the kind of book that will make you laugh out loud just as much as it will tug at your heartstrings. A wonderful blending of the stuff real life is made of. The McKinley family has become a fixture in my life much as Henderson's O'Malleys and Warren's Christiansens have. I like to think of them all as extended family and it's such a treat to catch up with the rest of the clan. No worries if you haven't read the other books in A Chapel Springs Romance series, this one reads well as a standalone. Mind you, I predict that after reading The Wishing Season, you'll definitely want to hunt out the other three.
Talk about opposites attract -- only Cole and PJ don't at first. Or pretend they don't. They come from different worlds, their lives riddled with diverse experiences but at the core they are both struggling with deep issues of self-worth and a determination to prove themselves. Talk about upping the angst because they both need to win this competition. I mean really need to win. My heart was all aflutter the whole read trying to figure out how that was even possible.
This is the kind of book that will make you laugh out loud just as much as it will tug at your heartstrings. A wonderful blending of the stuff real life is made of. The McKinley family has become a fixture in my life much as Henderson's O'Malleys and Warren's Christiansens have. I like to think of them all as extended family and it's such a treat to catch up with the rest of the clan. No worries if you haven't read the other books in A Chapel Springs Romance series, this one reads well as a standalone. Mind you, I predict that after reading The Wishing Season, you'll definitely want to hunt out the other three.
February 2, 2022
I really, really enjoyed this story, even though, at times, I wanted to simultaneously hug Cole and hit him over the head with a flower pot (IYKYK).
The premise of the book is so intriguing: competing ideas for the use of a house, but then the owner of said house can't decide who to give the house to, so the competitors are asked to share the house for a year. I also loved that the time frame gave plenty of time for PJ and Cole to find their way to each other (even though there were a LOT of hiccups on that path)!
I loved the way Mama Jo was able to encourage PJ (and eventually Cole, as well!) to have faith in God's promises, even when things are messy.
I also loved that we got to see a bit into Ryan's heart and am looking forward to reading his story soon!
The premise of the book is so intriguing: competing ideas for the use of a house, but then the owner of said house can't decide who to give the house to, so the competitors are asked to share the house for a year. I also loved that the time frame gave plenty of time for PJ and Cole to find their way to each other (even though there were a LOT of hiccups on that path)!
I loved the way Mama Jo was able to encourage PJ (and eventually Cole, as well!) to have faith in God's promises, even when things are messy.
I also loved that we got to see a bit into Ryan's heart and am looking forward to reading his story soon!
May 5, 2015
Another great book by Denise Hunter. I really enjoyed this book and how the story progressed. There were highs and lows, all which added to the enjoyment of reading it. The Wishing Season is a welcomed addition to my "favorites" list. I highly recommend it.
November 25, 2017
~3.5-4 stars~
April 23, 2023
The Wishing Season is the third book of the Chapel Springs series. The series follows the McKinley siblings. I would recommend reading them in order to avoid spoilers.
I loved the way PJ and Cole met. It is memorable and unique. I loved diving right into this story after finishing the second one. The characters are still fresh and I am loving the McKinley family (although Mama Jo got my stink eye!). I also enjoyed Cole and PJ having to live in the house together for a year, each working toward their dream. I figured I knew what was going to happen and how the story was going to end. While I was right, it did not happen as I thought it would. It was so much better.
You cannot go wrong with a Denise Hunter book! She tackles hard topics (this one is foster care) with heart and depth. You will love the characters, love the chemistry, and love the story.
I loved the way PJ and Cole met. It is memorable and unique. I loved diving right into this story after finishing the second one. The characters are still fresh and I am loving the McKinley family (although Mama Jo got my stink eye!). I also enjoyed Cole and PJ having to live in the house together for a year, each working toward their dream. I figured I knew what was going to happen and how the story was going to end. While I was right, it did not happen as I thought it would. It was so much better.
You cannot go wrong with a Denise Hunter book! She tackles hard topics (this one is foster care) with heart and depth. You will love the characters, love the chemistry, and love the story.
January 10, 2016
Well, I finished out this series with one that turned out to be my least favorite of the four. I'm noticing that I tend to connect least with characters who love to cook (weird, since I enjoy baking), but it doesn't always damage my rating. I guess what really damaged the rating (-1 star) is that the main characters were over-the-top physically aware of each other and engaged in some pretty heated kissing while in the house alone—and having a very scant faith message. This book could have read just fine for the general market, but I still enjoyed another trip to Chapel Springs. I am glad, though, that the last book of the series was so excellent, and this sets up for it well with Ryan buying the house.
December 3, 2014
When I first started The Wishing Season, I thought it would be a light romance, but I was wrong. The characters had depth with real conflict in their lives. The emotion rang true, and pulled me in until I couldn't put the book down. Excellent story. Nicely written.
December 15, 2017
This was a fun escape. I enjoy Hunter's writing. It was a little slow to take off but I really enjoyed the end. This is the 3rd book but It is it's own story and you can read it on it's own. I enjoyed both characters and the story line. Great chemistry and tension. This is a Christian Romance.
September 2, 2022
Cole & PJ are the definition of the Grumpy/ Sunshine trope & I loved it💜 They have amazing chemistry!✨Really enjoyed this one!
December 30, 2022
PJ and Cole met with a bang and ever since the first meet, they were in a fight to further their own hopes and dreams. Just like the first meet, their connection was just as fast and not easy to ignore.
I adored Cole. He had a very difficult background and it played a big part of who he is today and why he didn’t think twice helping PJ when she needed help.
I love Mama Jo and the close nit McKinley family, but in this story, I did get frustrated with their meddling and how Mama Jo judged the situation and made her own conclusion on face value. However, she did redeem herself when she realized her mistake and apologised.
Both PJ and Cole had to overcome insecurities based on life events and trust God to truly know what they deserve.
Denise Hunter has a talent of taking difficult subjects and writing beautiful, sweet stories which not only touches the heartache, but also the hope and the victory over these challenges. In book 1, it was alcoholism, book two rape, book 3 the foster system and book 4 it is child abuse.
I adored Cole. He had a very difficult background and it played a big part of who he is today and why he didn’t think twice helping PJ when she needed help.
I love Mama Jo and the close nit McKinley family, but in this story, I did get frustrated with their meddling and how Mama Jo judged the situation and made her own conclusion on face value. However, she did redeem herself when she realized her mistake and apologised.
Both PJ and Cole had to overcome insecurities based on life events and trust God to truly know what they deserve.
Denise Hunter has a talent of taking difficult subjects and writing beautiful, sweet stories which not only touches the heartache, but also the hope and the victory over these challenges. In book 1, it was alcoholism, book two rape, book 3 the foster system and book 4 it is child abuse.
April 14, 2021
Reading the first book in this series, Barefoot Summer is a kind of magic experience I haven’t had in fiction. It wasn’t *just* the delights of the setting or the character quirks, it’s a deeper, more meaningful chord it strikes in me. That moment ensures this series climbs quickly to the top of my favorites list, which is why despite some minor disappointment in the following novel, I was anxious to have the chance to read any ensuing books in the series. Before the first chapter was gone, I already put this book down as a keeper.
The story is about PJ McKinley and newcomer Cole Evans. Both of them have dreams that involve the Wishing House, which they place separate bids on. However, since the owner of the house cannot decide between PJ’s careful plan to open a restaurant (her dream) or Cole’s plan to use the house as a home for foster kids transitioning between high school and whatever’s next, the pair of them must share the space for a matter of months. As two very different people who must share the house, they come to realize that there is more to the other person than first impressions would suggest.
The Wishing Season, by Denise Hunter | Book Review
What this novel has is a great hook. Sure the dueling couple is something that’s been done, but the opening, how Denise introduces the characters, is funny and priceless. It sets up a lighter scene before the heavier topics come into play as these two different people open their minds (and hearts) to getting to know each other without blinders on. Cole’s past is an interesting one and I admire him as a hero greatly. True he is a fictional character, but his ability to make something out of a past that would paralyze is inspiring. He’s compassionate and doesn’t use his past as an excuse.
Catching up with the McKinley family feels like our own family gatherings, as if they’re in our crowded kitchens at holidays. PJ is been a sassy spitfire as a side character in prior books, and again she proves to be a fun-loving character. Anyone who hasn’t read the first two books in this series can read The Wishing Season although I would encourage you to read them all; everything has more meaning if read from the beginning. Perfect for any season, this is a sweet winter read that’s great for any season. It’s a dream and a wish come true in one beautiful little package.
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary e-ARC copy of this book for reviewing purposes.
The story is about PJ McKinley and newcomer Cole Evans. Both of them have dreams that involve the Wishing House, which they place separate bids on. However, since the owner of the house cannot decide between PJ’s careful plan to open a restaurant (her dream) or Cole’s plan to use the house as a home for foster kids transitioning between high school and whatever’s next, the pair of them must share the space for a matter of months. As two very different people who must share the house, they come to realize that there is more to the other person than first impressions would suggest.
The Wishing Season, by Denise Hunter | Book Review
What this novel has is a great hook. Sure the dueling couple is something that’s been done, but the opening, how Denise introduces the characters, is funny and priceless. It sets up a lighter scene before the heavier topics come into play as these two different people open their minds (and hearts) to getting to know each other without blinders on. Cole’s past is an interesting one and I admire him as a hero greatly. True he is a fictional character, but his ability to make something out of a past that would paralyze is inspiring. He’s compassionate and doesn’t use his past as an excuse.
Catching up with the McKinley family feels like our own family gatherings, as if they’re in our crowded kitchens at holidays. PJ is been a sassy spitfire as a side character in prior books, and again she proves to be a fun-loving character. Anyone who hasn’t read the first two books in this series can read The Wishing Season although I would encourage you to read them all; everything has more meaning if read from the beginning. Perfect for any season, this is a sweet winter read that’s great for any season. It’s a dream and a wish come true in one beautiful little package.
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary e-ARC copy of this book for reviewing purposes.
October 28, 2015
I absolutely loved the first two books in this series and so I was extremely excited to get to read PJ's story! The premise was so fun and unique and the author did a fabulous job with it!
Cole and PJ were such a fun hero and heroine and I quickly fell in love with them. I loved how PJ was endearingly chatty and how that paired well with Cole's more quiet nature. The way they bantered with each other often left me with a huge smile on my face. PJ was a bubbly breath of fresh air and it was cool to see her stepping out on her own and making her dream a reality. My heart broke for Cole when we found out what had happened to him as a child but I loved how he turned that into a passion for foster kids like him. I also loved how he was always there for PJ when she needed him even if they weren't on the best of terms at that point, and how he kept calling her Sunshine and teasing her about the way they met.
It was great to catch up with the rest of the McKinleys and I really liked the foster kids that Cole took in.
I literally devoured this book and had it finished in less than 24 hours so I guess you can say that I loved it!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Cole and PJ were such a fun hero and heroine and I quickly fell in love with them. I loved how PJ was endearingly chatty and how that paired well with Cole's more quiet nature. The way they bantered with each other often left me with a huge smile on my face. PJ was a bubbly breath of fresh air and it was cool to see her stepping out on her own and making her dream a reality. My heart broke for Cole when we found out what had happened to him as a child but I loved how he turned that into a passion for foster kids like him. I also loved how he was always there for PJ when she needed him even if they weren't on the best of terms at that point, and how he kept calling her Sunshine and teasing her about the way they met.
It was great to catch up with the rest of the McKinleys and I really liked the foster kids that Cole took in.
I literally devoured this book and had it finished in less than 24 hours so I guess you can say that I loved it!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 7, 2015
Review originally posted on i blog 4 books: http://iblog4books.blogspot.com/2015/...
What a fun book! PJ and Cole begin as competitors but quickly realize they can help each other out. It was a lot of fun to see how their relationship developed!
I loved the mission that Cole was on to help kids who age out of foster care. His idea for post-foster care housing has actually led to some interesting conversations at home! (Don't you love when that happens?!)
I've said repeatedly that I love series that follow a family through several books, and this is a perfect example why. The Wishing Season primarily focus on PJ—but we also get to catch up with the rest of the McKinley family. One thing I thought was interesting was how much the rest of the family irritated me for treating PJ so poorly at times (and I LOVED them in the other books!). I guess that just goes to show what a great job the author did of helping me feel empathy for PJ!
I thoroughly enjoyed this visit to Chapel Springs and happily recommend this book (and the entire series!) to readers who love sweet, contemporary romances! [5 stars]
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.
What a fun book! PJ and Cole begin as competitors but quickly realize they can help each other out. It was a lot of fun to see how their relationship developed!
I loved the mission that Cole was on to help kids who age out of foster care. His idea for post-foster care housing has actually led to some interesting conversations at home! (Don't you love when that happens?!)
I've said repeatedly that I love series that follow a family through several books, and this is a perfect example why. The Wishing Season primarily focus on PJ—but we also get to catch up with the rest of the McKinley family. One thing I thought was interesting was how much the rest of the family irritated me for treating PJ so poorly at times (and I LOVED them in the other books!). I guess that just goes to show what a great job the author did of helping me feel empathy for PJ!
I thoroughly enjoyed this visit to Chapel Springs and happily recommend this book (and the entire series!) to readers who love sweet, contemporary romances! [5 stars]
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.
October 28, 2021
So much tension! The competition between PJ and Cole adds an element of resentment to their interactions, and as the reader it felt a little hard to shake as they began to get to know one another but still give priority to their own aspirations. It felt like an all or nothing scenario not just with the property but also with their potential for a relationship. It would have been nice to see thoughts of compromise enter in their consciousness. Overall I enjoyed the characters' eccentricities, PJ's overly concerned family members, and Cole's foster kids. Cole is one tough nut to crack! I appreciated getting to the part where PJ could get through to him and have an effect on how he thinks about himself.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
September 1, 2014
Another fabulous installment of this Chapel Spring Series. PJ and Cole both suffer from not feeling worthy enough but both for very different reasons. When they are both gifted the chance to live in this mansion for a year they both saw the end result - personal victory - but it doesn't feel so good when we consider others and remember to put God first. Cole came from the foster system as he lost his family at the age of 12 from a tragic accident and PJ - the baby of the McKinley's is never good enough in their eyes ... but one year under the same roof can change many things - and most of all it changes PJ and Cole.
I was gifted a copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
I was gifted a copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
January 7, 2015
This was my first book by Denise, but it will not be the last! I was completely engrossed in this inspirational contemporary romance. The author has created unforgettable characters that tug at your heart strings, making it impossible not to care how their story turns out. I loved how this story came to life and didn't let me go for a moment. I also liked the elements of faith, just enough to make you think without getting too "preachy." And the cover is just gorgeous! I'm definitely looking forward to finding more of this author's books. 5 stars!
(I received an e-copy of this book through Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
(I received an e-copy of this book through Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
March 22, 2016
the story starts slow n i almost.... almost wanted to stop but as the story progress... cant bring myself to stop reading.
i really really like cole. he has a very big heart. he may be doing what he is doing for the wrong reason but he really did a very nice thing n i cant help but falling in love with his character over n over again.
n PJ... she deserves him as she herself has a very kind soul. a match made in heaven....
i must say that i did not like mama jo in the beginning but she came thru for PJ in the end n for that .. i forgave her.
finished the book in record time. love everything about this story!!!
i really really like cole. he has a very big heart. he may be doing what he is doing for the wrong reason but he really did a very nice thing n i cant help but falling in love with his character over n over again.
n PJ... she deserves him as she herself has a very kind soul. a match made in heaven....
i must say that i did not like mama jo in the beginning but she came thru for PJ in the end n for that .. i forgave her.
finished the book in record time. love everything about this story!!!
April 15, 2016
I so adore Denise Hunter's books & The Wishing Season is no exception! The characters leap off the page straight into your heart. The plot goes beyond a fluffy rom-com (though the sparks sizzle and pop quite nicely!) with depth and feeling and substance. My emotions rose and dipped and twisted and cheered along with the story line! I loved PJ and Cole - their chemistry and their hearts. Both of them were trying to prove that they were worthy, when they just needed to look down (or up) the stairs to find someone who already believed in them :)
January 16, 2015
Wow! Denise Hunter has done it again. She's so consistent. Every book she writes is amazing! The characters are always fresh. The romance always sizzles! The story line's are never boring.
The McKinley's remind me a little of my family, especially Momma Jo.It's always fun to catch up on the rest of the characters from the first two books in the series. I LOVED this book! I can't wait to read Ryan's story this June!
The McKinley's remind me a little of my family, especially Momma Jo.It's always fun to catch up on the rest of the characters from the first two books in the series. I LOVED this book! I can't wait to read Ryan's story this June!
December 17, 2014
I really enjoyed this book! It was fun catching up with the residents of Chapel Springs.
PJ and Cole are great characters. The sunny PJ is the perfect balance for tortured Cole. Their chemistry jumped off the pages.
My favorite part though was the work Cole was doing for foster kids. It made me love his character enough to ignore the times he acted like a jerk.
Fans of Denise Hunter will enjoy her newest book. It's a sweet read.
PJ and Cole are great characters. The sunny PJ is the perfect balance for tortured Cole. Their chemistry jumped off the pages.
My favorite part though was the work Cole was doing for foster kids. It made me love his character enough to ignore the times he acted like a jerk.
Fans of Denise Hunter will enjoy her newest book. It's a sweet read.
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