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Fitzgerald House #1
Southern Comforts
Rule #2--Never get involved with a guest
Abigail Fitzgerald has always followed her mama's rules when it comes to running their family's B and B. But her mama never had to resist a man like Grayson Smythe. A long-term guest, Gray spends his evenings having dinner with Abby in her kitchen--and it's not long before their attraction begins to sizzle.
Although Gray's kisses are a delicious distraction, Abby's priorities are the B and B and the dream of opening her own restaurant. And Gray definitely has the means to help her. But when money seems to be all he can offer, Abby suspects she might get burned.
Abigail Fitzgerald has always followed her mama's rules when it comes to running their family's B and B. But her mama never had to resist a man like Grayson Smythe. A long-term guest, Gray spends his evenings having dinner with Abby in her kitchen--and it's not long before their attraction begins to sizzle.
Although Gray's kisses are a delicious distraction, Abby's priorities are the B and B and the dream of opening her own restaurant. And Gray definitely has the means to help her. But when money seems to be all he can offer, Abby suspects she might get burned.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 1, 2014
49 people are currently reading
541 people want to read
About the author
Nan Dixon
27 books358 followersNan spent her formative years as an actress, singer, dancer and competitive golfer. But the need to eat had her studying accounting in college. Unfortunately, being a successful financial executive didn’t feed her passion to perform. When the pharmaceutical company she worked for was purchased, Nan got the chance of a lifetime—the opportunity to pursue a writing career.
She’s a five-time Golden Heart finalist and lives in the Midwest.
She’s a five-time Golden Heart finalist and lives in the Midwest.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 7, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. The Hero is a “billionaire” but to me he wasn’t a prick like a lot of them can be. The heroine was sweet and I loved her family. Great read from a new author. I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
April 15, 2018
Sweet story. Very steady pacing. Sort of a slow-burn romance that felt realistic and honest.
November 17, 2014
Two thumbs up for Nan Dixon’s debut novel, Southern Comforts. It’s a light-hearted romance that touches all the warm, satisfying notes between a man and a woman. What makes the story even more enjoyable is the interplay of the hero and heroine with their respective families. It shows that family matters—in a big way, and you can’t help but feel good about it.
Set in the charming city of Savannah, Southern Comforts is a story rich with sensory details. A reader can easily see the vivid colors of lush gardens and be soothed by the sound of burbling fountains. It’s an aromatic treat of sugar and sandalwood, citrus and spice. Afternoon teas and wine tastings abound served with lovingly prepared appetizers. Let’s hope the author shares the recipes for brandy pecan bars, fruit tarts and vegetable strata.
Nor is there a scarcity of genteel mansions.
Abby Fitzgerald is determined to make her historic family home one of the best B & B’s around. If she succeeds, she can fulfill her biggest dream. Trained in the culinary arts, she wants her own restaurant, and is willing to work herself to exhaustion to see the dream realized. Two things stand in her way—lack of funds and her inability to ask for help.
Booked for a six month stay, Boston-boy Grayson Smythe is delighted to spend time with Abby in her cozy kitchen while she chops, stirs and bakes her way into his heart. Recently freed from a relationship, he’s not ready to jump into anything permanent. Still, there’s something about her smile, her determination and her coolness under fire that begins to feel like home away from home. Jaded by past relationships where his wealth seemed to be the major draw, he wonders if her interest is all about the money. But would she even accept his help, if offered?
Southern Comforts is a book about learning how to give and receive without any strings attached. It’s about caring, trust and loyalty; and relying on those you love to help make your dreams come true.
Reviewed by Joyce Proell
Author of Eliza, A Deadly Truth and A Burning Truth
September 25, 2018
My first book by Ms. Dixon. Enjoyed it very much...Funny, heartwarming. Abby Fitzgerald wants to open her own restaurant and run her families B&B with her sisters. When Gray comes to stay at the Fitzergald House he stays for awhile.
He’s a business man though and though. She bends some rules to make his stay enjoyable.
They set off some sparks; but when he uses his wealth to charm her things don’t go well. He thinks he’s helping.
Gray isn’t sure what hes going to find in Savannah. For one thing he’s
there for business. What he doesn’t expect is the one sister Abby
who’s owner of the B&B to fill his head. Until his parents come into town, and ruin it all.
See what happens..
He’s a business man though and though. She bends some rules to make his stay enjoyable.
They set off some sparks; but when he uses his wealth to charm her things don’t go well. He thinks he’s helping.
Gray isn’t sure what hes going to find in Savannah. For one thing he’s
there for business. What he doesn’t expect is the one sister Abby
who’s owner of the B&B to fill his head. Until his parents come into town, and ruin it all.
See what happens..
December 4, 2014
What an absolutely wonderful story! I adored it. The ending was so sweet and satisfying. A few days ago I found a great sounding recipe on the author's website and printed it out. Turns out the brandy pecan bars are a favorite of the hero. I'm definitely going to have to make them now.
The writing was fabulous. Many of the similes were so apropos of the characters. They made me smile. My fav was her heart beating like the paddles of her industrial mixer! Loved ALL the characters, but of course, especially Gray and Abby. Loved their conflicts and how they resolved them. Gray's whole "rich" conflict felt unique and fresh.
I've guessing a sister and a secondary character, Daniel, have their own story, and I'd love to read it!
The writing was fabulous. Many of the similes were so apropos of the characters. They made me smile. My fav was her heart beating like the paddles of her industrial mixer! Loved ALL the characters, but of course, especially Gray and Abby. Loved their conflicts and how they resolved them. Gray's whole "rich" conflict felt unique and fresh.
I've guessing a sister and a secondary character, Daniel, have their own story, and I'd love to read it!
March 23, 2015
I've gotta say, I really enjoyed this book. It didn't have much in erotic content, but the story, and character interaction made up for that.
I loved that this was based around a strong independent female lead. Her vision was clear, and she was doing everything to make it a reality. The angst was light, but did get a little tiresome, only because I just wanted them to work as a couple. I understood where the confusion was, especially with the financial aspect but some actual communication between them would have cleared that up.
The secondary characters were great. The sisters all complemented each other.
I would definitely read more from this author if the erotic content was a little more graphic.
I loved that this was based around a strong independent female lead. Her vision was clear, and she was doing everything to make it a reality. The angst was light, but did get a little tiresome, only because I just wanted them to work as a couple. I understood where the confusion was, especially with the financial aspect but some actual communication between them would have cleared that up.
The secondary characters were great. The sisters all complemented each other.
I would definitely read more from this author if the erotic content was a little more graphic.
November 17, 2014
I was lucky enough to get an early copy of this book and I could not put it down! I was enthralled with the characters and the setting. I just wish the book had been longer. I am looking forward to more of this authors books!
February 18, 2015
Food and romance...what more could a girl (and a reader) ask for! Wonderful job. I especially love the family angle and the interaction of the sisters. Since I grew up with 4 brothers and have 3 sons, I find close relationships between women fascinating. I look forward to reading more like this!
December 21, 2014
Can't wait for the rest of the sisters' stories!
January 2, 2015
Loved this book!
I couldn't put this book down. I hope this is going to be a series because I would love to read Bess and Dolley's story.
I couldn't put this book down. I hope this is going to be a series because I would love to read Bess and Dolley's story.
May 3, 2018
Loved the book. Will be looking for more by this author.
Can a Yankee and southern woman building her dreams fall in love and find happiness? Will Gray, the Yankee too rich to imagine businessman, and Abby, part owner of a family owned B&B and dreaming of having her own restaurant with her as head chef, figure out that sometimes the north and south do mesh? Once I began reading I couldn't put this book down. The pace is fast and keeps you on your toes not wanting to miss a single word as you read.
Can a Yankee and southern woman building her dreams fall in love and find happiness? Will Gray, the Yankee too rich to imagine businessman, and Abby, part owner of a family owned B&B and dreaming of having her own restaurant with her as head chef, figure out that sometimes the north and south do mesh? Once I began reading I couldn't put this book down. The pace is fast and keeps you on your toes not wanting to miss a single word as you read.
July 25, 2017
I perfect book to enjoy with a glass of wine. Even though there are a lot of characters, each one held a distinct personality. The setting is so real and lovely, I was disappointed I couldn't make a real life reservation.
April 14, 2018
Yankee go home
Never say Never! Gray is as Yankee as they come and Abby is a sweet Southern belle. Folk and their own histories tell them they aren't meant to be together. Once Gray figures out how to make Abby happy by working on her B & B, love conquers all their misconceptions. Very well written with a deceitful storyline and characters that are enjoyable.
Never say Never! Gray is as Yankee as they come and Abby is a sweet Southern belle. Folk and their own histories tell them they aren't meant to be together. Once Gray figures out how to make Abby happy by working on her B & B, love conquers all their misconceptions. Very well written with a deceitful storyline and characters that are enjoyable.
December 12, 2014
"Southern Comforts" has a heroine, like so many women today, who must convince others (but mostly themselves) that they don't need help. Which often translates into "I don't need anyone," (least of all a man). How wrong they usually are. Abigail Fitzgerald, eldest of the Fitzgerald sisters is a wannabe chef and currently the manager and cook of the B&B created out of their grandmother's old Savannah mansion. She has big plans that include a restaurant, "Southern Comforts," which requires a new loan from a banker who has nothing but disdain for the Fitzgerald sisters.
Grayson Smythe, wealthy Boston developer, has escaped a grasping almost-fiance and a lifestyle that has overwhelmed. He needs time to rest, time to not have to think about deals and negotiations, and distance from the woman his mother and sister want him to marry. He never expects to find meals that tickle his taste buds or a woman who tickles his... um. Let's just say his attraction to Abby is something he can't get away from, but his plan to stay in Savannah for six months means anything they might develop, anything they might enjoy has to be considered short-term. As soon as the condos he's building in an old warehouse are completed, he's outta there! (Or is he?)
The unexpected arrival of his ex-girlfriend with the expected arrival of his parents complicates matters, as does his desire to help Abby when she doesn't need help/want help, especially not from a guest. How he decides to get Abby's attention explodes in his face until he alters his plan slightly and without telling anyone. Read for yourself how this delightful tale ends and the complications unravel into an awareness that everyone needs help now and again.
Grayson Smythe, wealthy Boston developer, has escaped a grasping almost-fiance and a lifestyle that has overwhelmed. He needs time to rest, time to not have to think about deals and negotiations, and distance from the woman his mother and sister want him to marry. He never expects to find meals that tickle his taste buds or a woman who tickles his... um. Let's just say his attraction to Abby is something he can't get away from, but his plan to stay in Savannah for six months means anything they might develop, anything they might enjoy has to be considered short-term. As soon as the condos he's building in an old warehouse are completed, he's outta there! (Or is he?)
The unexpected arrival of his ex-girlfriend with the expected arrival of his parents complicates matters, as does his desire to help Abby when she doesn't need help/want help, especially not from a guest. How he decides to get Abby's attention explodes in his face until he alters his plan slightly and without telling anyone. Read for yourself how this delightful tale ends and the complications unravel into an awareness that everyone needs help now and again.
April 19, 2015
Nan Dixon’s debut novel, Southern Comforts, offers the reader a lovely trip to Savannah (with a side trip to Boston) and food and wine descriptions that will leave her mouth watering. (Psst: the recipe for those brandy pecan bars is on Nan’s website!).
Abby Fitzgerald is determined to make a success of her family’s bed and Breakfast, Fitzgerald House, but her long term plan is to add her own restaurant, Southern Comforts, and prove her standing as a top-drawer chef. And despite the business assistance of her two sisters, Bess and Dolley, she’s set on doing it herself. Her irresponsible father and the chef who dumped her in New York, blocking her culinary career, have led her to distrust men—and their money.
And money is what Grayson Smythe has a lot of. The Boston businessman has booked a six-month stay at Fitzgerald House while he oversees the conversion of a warehouse to condos, and Abby’s sister has forgotten to tell her that the deal includes dinner. Gray quickly falls in love with Abby’s cooking, but admitting that he’s falling in love with her is another matter. And persuading her to trust his good intentions is even harder.
I thoroughly enjoyed Southern Comforts and I’m looking forward to reading Bess and Dolley’s stories one of these days.
Abby Fitzgerald is determined to make a success of her family’s bed and Breakfast, Fitzgerald House, but her long term plan is to add her own restaurant, Southern Comforts, and prove her standing as a top-drawer chef. And despite the business assistance of her two sisters, Bess and Dolley, she’s set on doing it herself. Her irresponsible father and the chef who dumped her in New York, blocking her culinary career, have led her to distrust men—and their money.
And money is what Grayson Smythe has a lot of. The Boston businessman has booked a six-month stay at Fitzgerald House while he oversees the conversion of a warehouse to condos, and Abby’s sister has forgotten to tell her that the deal includes dinner. Gray quickly falls in love with Abby’s cooking, but admitting that he’s falling in love with her is another matter. And persuading her to trust his good intentions is even harder.
I thoroughly enjoyed Southern Comforts and I’m looking forward to reading Bess and Dolley’s stories one of these days.
October 5, 2015
Pure brain candy. Quick and easy. Not bad for a debut novel and I will check out Nan Dixon's next one. The characters are interesting, if somewhat typical. There isn't much unexpected in the story. But, all in all, this is a fun read.
Abby is the oldest of three sisters, and aspiring chef with a dream to open her own starred restaurant. First, she has to make sure that the family's B&B is successful and on solid footing. She's been burned recently by her ex-fiance and is not about to forget that she can't depend on a man, no matter how sincere he seems. She especially can't depend on one that throws his money around to gain what he wants. Under no circumstances can she ask for help.
Gray doesn't know who he can trust. He's just gotten out of a disaster of a relationship. At least, he thinks he's gotten out of it. His sister and mother have other ideas. He's in Savannah for six months to get his latest project underway; he is not interested in getting involved in the lifestyle or anyone who may catch his eye. He makes it clear that as much as Abby interests him he's out of there in a few months. That's just fine with Abby.
Quick, easy, fun, and entertaining. If you're looking for that, you'll probably enjoy this one.
Abby is the oldest of three sisters, and aspiring chef with a dream to open her own starred restaurant. First, she has to make sure that the family's B&B is successful and on solid footing. She's been burned recently by her ex-fiance and is not about to forget that she can't depend on a man, no matter how sincere he seems. She especially can't depend on one that throws his money around to gain what he wants. Under no circumstances can she ask for help.
Gray doesn't know who he can trust. He's just gotten out of a disaster of a relationship. At least, he thinks he's gotten out of it. His sister and mother have other ideas. He's in Savannah for six months to get his latest project underway; he is not interested in getting involved in the lifestyle or anyone who may catch his eye. He makes it clear that as much as Abby interests him he's out of there in a few months. That's just fine with Abby.
Quick, easy, fun, and entertaining. If you're looking for that, you'll probably enjoy this one.
February 8, 2015
I have mixed feelings about this one. I did like it, was able to finish it a short time, and didn't skim, but something was off for me and I'm not sure exactly why. It did feel a little long; I think the story could have lost a few scenes and not suffered. There were also some issues with the internal conflicts of both the hero and heroine that I didn't care for; and while I didn't hate them for their feelings, they didn't gain any points with me by acting and feeling the way they did.
But I did find the overall story cute and readable. I enjoyed the southern setting and really enjoyed the food aspect. I think the author did a good job researching all the B&B and construction details. I really liked the secondary story line and while there was a ton if sequel bait, I think I might enjoy some of those stories.
I would like to give this author another chance because I think it was the main characters' issues and motivations I had a problem with, not the story or the writing.
*I received a free copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.*
But I did find the overall story cute and readable. I enjoyed the southern setting and really enjoyed the food aspect. I think the author did a good job researching all the B&B and construction details. I really liked the secondary story line and while there was a ton if sequel bait, I think I might enjoy some of those stories.
I would like to give this author another chance because I think it was the main characters' issues and motivations I had a problem with, not the story or the writing.
*I received a free copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.*
December 19, 2014
It is my understanding this is a debut novel and if this is the case, kudos to the author. This is an excellent first outing and I have no doubts this author will find success in her writing. Gray is a character I really liked and his easy going manner and big heart made him irresistible. I enjoyed reading about the meals Abby cooked, and a side story involving one of Abby's employees was a real heart warmer adding some additional depth to the story. I enjoyed Abby and Gray's story, each learning to give and take and realizing they each had to let go of their pride and work on some personal issues, something they are more than willing to do in order to live their lives together.
This is a sensual southern style romance and a light, easy, enjoyable
*Disclaimer* This review is the property of Night Owl Reviews. For the full review go to: http://www.nightowlreviews.com
This is a sensual southern style romance and a light, easy, enjoyable
*Disclaimer* This review is the property of Night Owl Reviews. For the full review go to: http://www.nightowlreviews.com
February 23, 2015
Okay, I think I gained five pounds reading about the food and wine in this book and I'm ready to take a trip to Savannah. I enjoyed enjoyed the hospitality of the bed and breakfast, the sisters' determination to achieve, and the hero's willingness to help them.
The relationships were well developed and I can't wait to read the author's next book.
The relationships were well developed and I can't wait to read the author's next book.
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January 12, 2016"Southern Comforts is a sweet story with a bit of excitement thrown in. The romance between Abby and Gray seems to build naturally, and Gray’s complex personality is particularly well drawn" (RT Book Reviews, 4 stars).
October 26, 2015
Nan does a wonderful job of sucking you into the story with setting and character. Can I just say, I wanted to be there with all the delightful foods and wine being served during the duration of the story.
March 22, 2015
I loved Abby and Gray's story. I will definitely read the other books in this series.
September 2, 2015
Fantastic book! I loved every second of it!
February 20, 2018
Sweet read, no big surprise moments. Felt as though some of the emotional trauma could've been done away with, since it was just more back & forth of the same. There seemed to be some indication of a romance between Bess and Daniel, that I'd like to see followed up.
Read
October 9, 2022I'm gonna DNF here, there's nothing wrong with the book (other than the unclear possibility that Fitzgerald house is a plantation bit) but I just don't care about what happened to anyone here tbh.
January 7, 2016
I always loved Harlequin Superromance because of the warmth with which the stories are told and how the relationship between two people grows organically. I was drawn to this particular book for two reasons - the cover and the premise. I'm working on a manuscript featuring an inn owner and I have bought a cover image that looks a lot like this one, so the curiosity drew me in. Also, I just love the 'inn' romance type, there's something so warm and cozy about a kitchen and a fireplace.
Unfortunately, I spent a large part of the book being annoyed with the hero and his back-and-forth reasoning (see my status updates). By 50-70 percent, I was rooting *against* the couple. But in the end, the hero redeemed himself in my eyes and I now root for a happily ever after for them. It seemed to me that a lot of the back-and-forth could have been cut, but then it would have been a shorter story and wouldn't have fit the word count guideline. Maybe this story would have been better told in the standard/sweet Romance (or whatever it's called now) format, cutting out the love scenes - or steaming them up and making it a Blaze. Either way, the story just felt too long.
Unfortunately, I spent a large part of the book being annoyed with the hero and his back-and-forth reasoning (see my status updates). By 50-70 percent, I was rooting *against* the couple. But in the end, the hero redeemed himself in my eyes and I now root for a happily ever after for them. It seemed to me that a lot of the back-and-forth could have been cut, but then it would have been a shorter story and wouldn't have fit the word count guideline. Maybe this story would have been better told in the standard/sweet Romance (or whatever it's called now) format, cutting out the love scenes - or steaming them up and making it a Blaze. Either way, the story just felt too long.
May 10, 2015
This is a debut by Ms. Dixon. I am assuming the sisters will get their own books.
"I dont ask anyone...I mean any guest for help."
"You got it right the first time. You dont ask anyone for help."
Abigail Fitzgerald is determined to rebuild her family's legacy. Grayson Smythe is in Charleston on business.
I enjoyed the book and hope there will be others. The heroine was frustrating at times. She took independence to a whole new level.
Sidebar: I could have done without the references to the hero as a Yankee.
"I dont ask anyone...I mean any guest for help."
"You got it right the first time. You dont ask anyone for help."
Abigail Fitzgerald is determined to rebuild her family's legacy. Grayson Smythe is in Charleston on business.
I enjoyed the book and hope there will be others. The heroine was frustrating at times. She took independence to a whole new level.
Sidebar: I could have done without the references to the hero as a Yankee.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews