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Miss Goody Two-Shoes
Imprisoned for a crime he did not commit, Kane Stoddard was an angry, bitter man, until the sweet uplifting letters from Melanie Abercrombie painted a picture of a life he longed for. Now that his name has been cleared, he wants to start a new life and meet the woman who gave him hope when his situation seemed hopeless. Mel doesn't know what to make of the scruffy bearded Kane who rides up on his motorcycle. Her first thought is he escaped from prison and is dangerous. Stunned by their rapid and sizzling attraction, she tries to fight her impulses and hang on to her prim and proper lifestyle. Mel worries that Kane will leave her once he grows tired of a small town life where he is still treated as an outcast.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2015
About the author
Charlotte Hughes
65 books318 followersCharlotte Hughes published her first category romance in 1987, a Bantam Books’ Loveswept, titled Too Many Husbands, which immediately shot to #1 on the Waldenbooks Bestseller list. She went on to write almost thirty books before the line closed in 1998.
Although Charlotte is widely known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies, she went on to pen three Maggie-Award winning thrillers for Avon Books in the late nineties, before resuming her first love, funny stories about people falling in love. She thrilled readers with her hilarious books, A New Attitude and Hot Shot, the latter of which won the Waldenbooks Greatest Sales Growth Achievement in 2003.
Her books received so many accolades that she was invited to co-author the very popular Full House series with mega-star author Janet Evanovich.
With that series behind her, Charlotte began her own, starring psychologist Kate Holly; What Looks Like Crazy, Nutcase, and High Anxiety, creating a list of somewhat kooky but always loveable and funny ensemble characters.
Charlotte is currently launching Tall, Dark and Bad, starring Summer Pettigrew and bad boy Cooper Garrett. She is writing a series set in the Lowcountry that is a WIP.
www.readcharlottehughes.com or her blog at http://blog.readcharlottehughes.com"
Although Charlotte is widely known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies, she went on to pen three Maggie-Award winning thrillers for Avon Books in the late nineties, before resuming her first love, funny stories about people falling in love. She thrilled readers with her hilarious books, A New Attitude and Hot Shot, the latter of which won the Waldenbooks Greatest Sales Growth Achievement in 2003.
Her books received so many accolades that she was invited to co-author the very popular Full House series with mega-star author Janet Evanovich.
With that series behind her, Charlotte began her own, starring psychologist Kate Holly; What Looks Like Crazy, Nutcase, and High Anxiety, creating a list of somewhat kooky but always loveable and funny ensemble characters.
Charlotte is currently launching Tall, Dark and Bad, starring Summer Pettigrew and bad boy Cooper Garrett. She is writing a series set in the Lowcountry that is a WIP.
www.readcharlottehughes.com or her blog at http://blog.readcharlottehughes.com"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 27, 2015
3.75 stars
Kane just got released from prison after serving 3 years for a crime he did not commit. When the person who really committed the crime confesses, Kane is released from jail with the clothes on his back, $250 and the letters that Mel wrote him. Mel never met Kane but has been writing to him for a year even though he never wrote back. Mel is surprised when the scruffy, bearded man shows up at her fathers store and introduces himself.
I enjoyed this story. I love ex-con type books, where the ex-con gets a chance at redemption. Kane hasn't had it easy and his descriptions of some of the things he saw in prison were awful. He's just looking to start over, stay out of trouble, find a job and a place to live. Mel is the type of person that is always taking care of everyone. She is Miss Goody Two-Shoes. She rescues animals, goes to church, and takes care of her dad and anyone else who needs it. She's never had anyone to take care of her. This was a fast-paced, quick read. The sexy scenes were fade to black. My only complaint about this story is that it really needed an epilogue or maybe a few more chapters, it ended quickly and left some questions unanswered.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Kane just got released from prison after serving 3 years for a crime he did not commit. When the person who really committed the crime confesses, Kane is released from jail with the clothes on his back, $250 and the letters that Mel wrote him. Mel never met Kane but has been writing to him for a year even though he never wrote back. Mel is surprised when the scruffy, bearded man shows up at her fathers store and introduces himself.
I enjoyed this story. I love ex-con type books, where the ex-con gets a chance at redemption. Kane hasn't had it easy and his descriptions of some of the things he saw in prison were awful. He's just looking to start over, stay out of trouble, find a job and a place to live. Mel is the type of person that is always taking care of everyone. She is Miss Goody Two-Shoes. She rescues animals, goes to church, and takes care of her dad and anyone else who needs it. She's never had anyone to take care of her. This was a fast-paced, quick read. The sexy scenes were fade to black. My only complaint about this story is that it really needed an epilogue or maybe a few more chapters, it ended quickly and left some questions unanswered.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
August 23, 2015
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Miss Goody Two-Shoes (Kindle Edition) by Charlotte Hughes
PLOT: 4
CHARACTERS: 4
COVER: 5
OVERALL RATING: 4
Miss Goody Two-shoes by Charlotte Hughes is a perfect book for when you just want to relax and have a good time. Kane was just released from a crime he did not commit. When the real criminal was found, he was released from jail with only the clothes on his back, $250 dollars and Mel's letters.
I truly liked reading this story. I loved how Kane was able to be released from jail. I really liked the way the characters complemented each other. Kane with his rough exterior and Mel with her sweet demeanor. Another thing which I truly enjoyed while reading this book, was how Kane was still able to maintain some semblance of independence even though he was living in Mel's house and practically having to depend on her. Mel was very sweet but she also has this inner strength to her that makes her a perfect match for Kane.
Overall this book with its heartwarming characters and endearing plot is a perfect read for when you just want to relax and enjoy a good book.
received digital edition from author in exchange for an honest review
Miss Goody Two-Shoes (Kindle Edition) by Charlotte Hughes
PLOT: 4
CHARACTERS: 4
COVER: 5
OVERALL RATING: 4
Miss Goody Two-shoes by Charlotte Hughes is a perfect book for when you just want to relax and have a good time. Kane was just released from a crime he did not commit. When the real criminal was found, he was released from jail with only the clothes on his back, $250 dollars and Mel's letters.
I truly liked reading this story. I loved how Kane was able to be released from jail. I really liked the way the characters complemented each other. Kane with his rough exterior and Mel with her sweet demeanor. Another thing which I truly enjoyed while reading this book, was how Kane was still able to maintain some semblance of independence even though he was living in Mel's house and practically having to depend on her. Mel was very sweet but she also has this inner strength to her that makes her a perfect match for Kane.
Overall this book with its heartwarming characters and endearing plot is a perfect read for when you just want to relax and enjoy a good book.
received digital edition from author in exchange for an honest review
July 21, 2015
Timeless, charming and heartwarming – this story may have originally been written twenty years ago but it is just as valid and valuable now as it was then.
Melanie “Mel” Abercrombie and Kane Stoddard’s story begins with letters sent to Kane when he most needed them. As soon as he was able to he made it his mission to seek out Mel, the woman that had made the past three years of his life bearable. The two have much in their past to overcome and a few current issues to deal with, too, but the ending is just what I was hoping for.
In the first few pages I was hooked by the writing. The heartwarming characters, the backstories, the family interactions, the small town closing of ranks and so much more made this a wonderful read and took me back to an experience of my own…one in which a pen pal of mine showed up at my college dorm as soon as HE was discharged from the army and had finished his tour in Vietnam. Our meeting was NOT to play out as Kane and Mel’s did but this book did remind me of that experience and how much letters sent to someone else can impact their life.
Thank you to Net Galley and Victory Editing for the copy of this book to read and review.
Melanie “Mel” Abercrombie and Kane Stoddard’s story begins with letters sent to Kane when he most needed them. As soon as he was able to he made it his mission to seek out Mel, the woman that had made the past three years of his life bearable. The two have much in their past to overcome and a few current issues to deal with, too, but the ending is just what I was hoping for.
In the first few pages I was hooked by the writing. The heartwarming characters, the backstories, the family interactions, the small town closing of ranks and so much more made this a wonderful read and took me back to an experience of my own…one in which a pen pal of mine showed up at my college dorm as soon as HE was discharged from the army and had finished his tour in Vietnam. Our meeting was NOT to play out as Kane and Mel’s did but this book did remind me of that experience and how much letters sent to someone else can impact their life.
Thank you to Net Galley and Victory Editing for the copy of this book to read and review.
September 4, 2016
I picked this up to read during a "characters who just got out of prison" binge like you do.
I have fond memories of Charlotte Hughes from my category reading days.
The book is sweet and interesting enough. But the heroine needs to grow much more than she does and the first meeting between the hero and her is a lot distasteful.
The romance is lovely but the interaction between almost all of the other characters is unpleasant.
Soooo, not a great read but not awful
I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it.
I have fond memories of Charlotte Hughes from my category reading days.
The book is sweet and interesting enough. But the heroine needs to grow much more than she does and the first meeting between the hero and her is a lot distasteful.
The romance is lovely but the interaction between almost all of the other characters is unpleasant.
Soooo, not a great read but not awful
I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it.
July 26, 2015
I receive an eARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was pure gentle romance - only romance because there wasn't much of mystery or suspense in it (I have to admit I need a little suspense to compliment the romance, but that's just me!) and gentle because this was a book that reminded of the pure romances that I used to first read in Mills and Boon!
The plot of the story was different - an ex - convict (falsely accused) and a woman who gave him hope via her letters (which he never answered, btw! So rude!).
Kane is a man who has had a bad past - a past that prejudiced the jury to convict him for a crime that he did not commit. He is used to people judging him for his past and doesn't really expect anything from his life - except a peaceful existence now that he is out of prison. And he believes that it would be in a town where the woman who was his salvation in prison, lives.
Mel, on the other hand, is a simple woman. She lives at home with her father, is dating a man with a daughter - because all she wants is her own family to love and take care of. When Mel starts writing to convict for a Church program, she doesn't expect anything to come out of it, especially since he never wrote back. The last thing she expects is for him to turn up in her town, in her father's shop.
The relationship between Kane and Mel is cute - there is attraction there but it is more of "I feel safe and accepted with you" than "I want to burn of the sheets of the bed, with you" - and that is what makes the story work. Basically, The characters themselves, even secondary characters are perfectly placed. Every single one of them had their place in the story without stepping on to other's feet.
Basically, in total, a book that I definitely enjoyed reading, and an author I look forward to reading more from!
This book was pure gentle romance - only romance because there wasn't much of mystery or suspense in it (I have to admit I need a little suspense to compliment the romance, but that's just me!) and gentle because this was a book that reminded of the pure romances that I used to first read in Mills and Boon!
The plot of the story was different - an ex - convict (falsely accused) and a woman who gave him hope via her letters (which he never answered, btw! So rude!).
Kane is a man who has had a bad past - a past that prejudiced the jury to convict him for a crime that he did not commit. He is used to people judging him for his past and doesn't really expect anything from his life - except a peaceful existence now that he is out of prison. And he believes that it would be in a town where the woman who was his salvation in prison, lives.
Mel, on the other hand, is a simple woman. She lives at home with her father, is dating a man with a daughter - because all she wants is her own family to love and take care of. When Mel starts writing to convict for a Church program, she doesn't expect anything to come out of it, especially since he never wrote back. The last thing she expects is for him to turn up in her town, in her father's shop.
The relationship between Kane and Mel is cute - there is attraction there but it is more of "I feel safe and accepted with you" than "I want to burn of the sheets of the bed, with you" - and that is what makes the story work. Basically, The characters themselves, even secondary characters are perfectly placed. Every single one of them had their place in the story without stepping on to other's feet.
Basically, in total, a book that I definitely enjoyed reading, and an author I look forward to reading more from!
July 30, 2015
This book was originally written in 1994 and as such, the feel of it was a little...outdated. By the time I realized that this was a re-issue, I had already requested for and received an arc copy so I went ahead and read it.
The book blurb is very apt in terms of letting a prospective reader know about the basic premise. Melanie is a sweet girl, who has helped take care of her father and younger sister after their mother left them when she was a young. She owns a flower shop but also helps out her father run his store. As suggested by her pastor, she starts writing letters to Kane, who is imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. As soon as Kane is exonerated, he heads to the town Melanie lives in. They run into each other at Mel's father's store and the story goes from there.
My feelings about the book are pretty conflicted. I liked the overall plot line, but having read a couple of other books (in which the male protagonist was also released from prison for crimes he hadn't committed), books I really loved, I found myself drawing a lot of parallels in my mind. And Miss Goody Two-Shoes fell short for me. Melanie and Kane's characters were mainly likable but I felt no connection to them. I wasn't emotionally invested in either them or the outcome of the story. The author's voice was had flow, but despite the overall story being relatively short, the book dragged on for me. Overall, it was simply an okay read for me.
*An ARC copy was kindly provided to me by Victory Editing via NetGalley
The book blurb is very apt in terms of letting a prospective reader know about the basic premise. Melanie is a sweet girl, who has helped take care of her father and younger sister after their mother left them when she was a young. She owns a flower shop but also helps out her father run his store. As suggested by her pastor, she starts writing letters to Kane, who is imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. As soon as Kane is exonerated, he heads to the town Melanie lives in. They run into each other at Mel's father's store and the story goes from there.
My feelings about the book are pretty conflicted. I liked the overall plot line, but having read a couple of other books (in which the male protagonist was also released from prison for crimes he hadn't committed), books I really loved, I found myself drawing a lot of parallels in my mind. And Miss Goody Two-Shoes fell short for me. Melanie and Kane's characters were mainly likable but I felt no connection to them. I wasn't emotionally invested in either them or the outcome of the story. The author's voice was had flow, but despite the overall story being relatively short, the book dragged on for me. Overall, it was simply an okay read for me.
*An ARC copy was kindly provided to me by Victory Editing via NetGalley
August 28, 2015
Kane Stoddard has just been released from prison after two years of serving a sentence for a crime he didn’t commit, not that he was an angel, and he is heading to see the one person who kept him going whilst he was locked away. Not that he has ever seen or spoke to her, or even written to her. But Melanie Abercrombie’s letters have kept him going for two years and he wants to thank her in person and start a new life. The prim and proper Mel is exactly as he expected, however, the irresistible attraction has taken him by surprise.
Sometimes you just need a book that you can sit back, relax and read without running into lots of odd twist and turns and wild dramas, this is exactly what Miss Goody Two-Shoes delivers. This was a really enjoyable read which kept a smile on my face as I watched the sweet romance develop between Kane and Mel.
If you want something that’s going to steam your reading glasses up, then you might want to move a long, Miss Goody Two Shoes has fade to black sex scenes. Which, although I was slightly disappointed, didn’t ruin the book for me the connection between Mel and Kane was strong enough that I didn’t need a touch by touch account of them playing hide-the-bishop to reinforce this.
This was a nice read, maybe a little too short with rather an abrupt end, I kept trying to turn the page over in my kindle expecting another few chapters! But, this was pleasant easy reading, perfect and although not memorable, great for relaxing with.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne
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July 26, 2015
When Kane Stoddard is cleared of the crime he has been spending time in prison for he wants to meet the woman who has persistently written him letters he refused to answer. Unknown to Melanie Abercrombie these letters were the only thing that made prison bearable for Kane. When he unexpectedly shows up in her small town she is sure he has escaped and now she has to protect her family and friends from this exscaped convicted murderer. She cannot help herself when it comes to light why he is really there so she strikes out to help him. As he becomes more and more a part of her everyday life they both fight the attraction that is growing between them. Along the way Melanie is sure he will grow tired of the small town life she lives and leave her and Kane is sure she cannot truly care for him because of his past. Fast read with a good story line.
August 16, 2015
Great Book!
This is a great book by Charlotte Hughes. Kane Stoddard was imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit; he was very angry and bitter man until he started receiving letters from Melanie Abercrombie. He has now been cleared of the crime and he wants to meet Melanie. When Melanie sees Kane ride up on his motorcycle she thinks he has escaped from prison, then she learns that he has been cleared of all charges. They can’t deny the sizzling attraction for each other. If you are looking for a great love story then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This is a great book by Charlotte Hughes. Kane Stoddard was imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit; he was very angry and bitter man until he started receiving letters from Melanie Abercrombie. He has now been cleared of the crime and he wants to meet Melanie. When Melanie sees Kane ride up on his motorcycle she thinks he has escaped from prison, then she learns that he has been cleared of all charges. They can’t deny the sizzling attraction for each other. If you are looking for a great love story then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
September 3, 2015
Kane was released from prison after 3 years of being incarcerated for a crime he did not commit. The first person he wanted to visit was Melanie Abercrombie, a young woman who wrote to him while he was in prison. She got his name from her pastor. Through Melanie's letters, Kane learned about the small town of Hardeeville, Mississippi and the people who lived there. Melanie and her father placed their trust and faith in him and helped him to get back on his feet although others were not as willing. Melanie and Kane's friendship started growing into more than just a friendship. They helped each other to grow and trust in each other as well as in themselves. As with all of Charlotte Hughes' books once you start reading, you will not want to put the book down
August 11, 2015
This is a delightful and heart warming love story between two very unlikely people. One, an ex-con wrongly convicted of murder and the other a prim and proper woman that has only dated one man.
While a predictable plot, the author has such a wonderful way of telling her tale that you can't help but be charmed and pulled into the story. If you are looking for a sweet and delightful romance, this is a great choice. I have enjoyed many of the author's works and have added her to my must read authors' list.
While a predictable plot, the author has such a wonderful way of telling her tale that you can't help but be charmed and pulled into the story. If you are looking for a sweet and delightful romance, this is a great choice. I have enjoyed many of the author's works and have added her to my must read authors' list.
September 2, 2015
Received a copy of this from Charlotte and enjoyed in tremendously. Loved the characters in the book. Lots of character and loved their neighbors and friends. Always willing to help one another. Will have to read again and get other books by this author when I can. Excellent read. Hope there will be a sequel to find out what happens to the self-centered sister.
July 28, 2015
If Your Looking for a fun book this is it, never know what is going to happen next or what could happen, to Me the family was nuts but then it got Serious, (No Spoilers) I love Charlotte Hughes she has other books out and they are all the same fun and a little mystery to add.
August 10, 2015
This book was a great read! I love the characters in the book they are such different personalities from each other.
October 28, 2015
This is wonderful romantic comedy. I really enjoyed this story and cannot wait to read more from this author!
This book is suitable for adult readers only.
This book is suitable for adult readers only.
February 10, 2018
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Imprisoned for a crime he did not commit, Kane Stoddard was an angry, bitter man, until the sweet uplifting letters from Melanie Abercrombie painted a picture of a life he longed for. Now that his name has been cleared, he wants to start a new life and meet the woman who gave him hope when his situation seemed hopeless.
Mel doesn’t know what to make of the scruffy bearded Kane who rides up on his motorcycle. Her first thought is he escaped from prison and is dangerous. Stunned by their rapid and sizzling attraction, she tries to fight her impulses and hang on to her prim and proper lifestyle. Mel worries that Kane will leave her once he grows tired of a small town life where he is still treated as an outcast.
This book was originally released in 1994 - and it reads like it. Having all the hallmarks of a Mills & Boon book (actually, a Loveswept book, but you know...), it was as predictable as can be.
Kane is in jail - wrongfully imprisoned, don't you know? - and Mel mysteriously gets his name and address from the local vicar, of all people, and starts writing him letters. He never responds, but keeps the letters. He gets released - after the true criminal confesses on his deathbed (sure haven't heard that before!) - but doesn't tell Mel and just turns up in her hometown. They kiss, they fight - they kiss, "we're just friends" - they kiss...who really cares anymore? The will-they, won't they? storyline is so dull, I was kinda hoping they would both get hit by a truck and we would get more story about Melanie's father...that could have been interesting...nah, who am I kidding?
This really was a one-star book but I do hate leaving them.
Paul
ARH
Imprisoned for a crime he did not commit, Kane Stoddard was an angry, bitter man, until the sweet uplifting letters from Melanie Abercrombie painted a picture of a life he longed for. Now that his name has been cleared, he wants to start a new life and meet the woman who gave him hope when his situation seemed hopeless.
Mel doesn’t know what to make of the scruffy bearded Kane who rides up on his motorcycle. Her first thought is he escaped from prison and is dangerous. Stunned by their rapid and sizzling attraction, she tries to fight her impulses and hang on to her prim and proper lifestyle. Mel worries that Kane will leave her once he grows tired of a small town life where he is still treated as an outcast.
This book was originally released in 1994 - and it reads like it. Having all the hallmarks of a Mills & Boon book (actually, a Loveswept book, but you know...), it was as predictable as can be.
Kane is in jail - wrongfully imprisoned, don't you know? - and Mel mysteriously gets his name and address from the local vicar, of all people, and starts writing him letters. He never responds, but keeps the letters. He gets released - after the true criminal confesses on his deathbed (sure haven't heard that before!) - but doesn't tell Mel and just turns up in her hometown. They kiss, they fight - they kiss, "we're just friends" - they kiss...who really cares anymore? The will-they, won't they? storyline is so dull, I was kinda hoping they would both get hit by a truck and we would get more story about Melanie's father...that could have been interesting...nah, who am I kidding?
This really was a one-star book but I do hate leaving them.
Paul
ARH
April 2, 2019
The book wasn't too bad, but man, did I want to slap the h up the side of her head. WAKE UP!! Your sister is a bitch and is using you.
The h and her family and the rest of that entire town were all like caricatures. They were either evil, evil, evil (in a small town, that means judgmental), or they were angels in the flesh, just too good to be true. I mean, if you were a man, living in some podunk little town in the South, and you found out your daughter has been writing to a prisoner for the past year and said prisoner was now standing in front of you, having shown up completely unexpected, to meet your daughter in person, unshaved and unkempt, I highly doubt your first reaction would be, "Well, shucks, it's nice to meet you. I'm sure you've done your time so I won't judge you. Please, hang out with my 30-year-old virgin daughter all you want, and y'know what? I'll even leave the two of you at home alone for a night or so, because I'm sure a man who's been in prison for three years can't possibly be horny as heck, am I right, yuck yuck."
Just too much happening in the book for such a short storyline. Had potential, but ridiculous characters didn't help.
The h and her family and the rest of that entire town were all like caricatures. They were either evil, evil, evil (in a small town, that means judgmental), or they were angels in the flesh, just too good to be true. I mean, if you were a man, living in some podunk little town in the South, and you found out your daughter has been writing to a prisoner for the past year and said prisoner was now standing in front of you, having shown up completely unexpected, to meet your daughter in person, unshaved and unkempt, I highly doubt your first reaction would be, "Well, shucks, it's nice to meet you. I'm sure you've done your time so I won't judge you. Please, hang out with my 30-year-old virgin daughter all you want, and y'know what? I'll even leave the two of you at home alone for a night or so, because I'm sure a man who's been in prison for three years can't possibly be horny as heck, am I right, yuck yuck."
Just too much happening in the book for such a short storyline. Had potential, but ridiculous characters didn't help.
October 12, 2019
So sorry
I did finish this book, so I can give a complete review. Well, mostly; I skimmed quite a bit.
The story is sweet, and I wanted so much to like the characters. Unfortunately, the dialogue was choppy and unnatural, and the phrasing was old fashioned, but not in a good way. At one point Mel worked herself into a ‘tizzy’ after she ‘reckoned’ something or other. I couldn’t tell if the author was a little old lady or an eighth grader. It was all very unnatural.
While I appreciate a clean, sweet romance, this one missed believability by a large margin.
I did finish this book, so I can give a complete review. Well, mostly; I skimmed quite a bit.
The story is sweet, and I wanted so much to like the characters. Unfortunately, the dialogue was choppy and unnatural, and the phrasing was old fashioned, but not in a good way. At one point Mel worked herself into a ‘tizzy’ after she ‘reckoned’ something or other. I couldn’t tell if the author was a little old lady or an eighth grader. It was all very unnatural.
While I appreciate a clean, sweet romance, this one missed believability by a large margin.
August 31, 2018
DNF
I just couldn’t get through it. The heroine was on my last nerve nearly from the beginning and I kept expecting her to get better. Booked looked cute and the hero was interesting but I just didn’t see his interest in her. Maybe if we could have read some of her letters to him I would have had a better understanding of the attraction.
I just couldn’t get through it. The heroine was on my last nerve nearly from the beginning and I kept expecting her to get better. Booked looked cute and the hero was interesting but I just didn’t see his interest in her. Maybe if we could have read some of her letters to him I would have had a better understanding of the attraction.
January 17, 2021
This would make a good Hallmark movie. It’s sweet, romantic, there’s one sex scene but it doesn’t get graphic. The characters are good people and it follows the way you want it to.
That said, the characters are pretty one dimensional and some of the dialogue is cliche mid-west hokum.
The good was a good weekend read.
That said, the characters are pretty one dimensional and some of the dialogue is cliche mid-west hokum.
The good was a good weekend read.
October 28, 2021
DNF...was cute and all but Mel “kinda” dating Harper frustrated me. I thought it seemed like an unneeded obstacle and the fact that she didn’t let Harper know that a man (regardless of him being an ex-con) lived in her house...and she kissed him didn’t sit right with me. Yes, they aren’t necessarily dating seriously but I still wouldn’t be happy if I was in Harper’s shoes. Also, Blair annoys me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2022
Really Abrupt Ending!
Ms. Hughes did not have an actual ending to the story...maybe she could have ended with the H and h married and lived happily ever after. This needed more than she left us with.
Ms. Hughes did not have an actual ending to the story...maybe she could have ended with the H and h married and lived happily ever after. This needed more than she left us with.
January 6, 2020
such a fun story, full of misunderstanding and secrets.
February 2, 2022
Goody two shoes
This is a great read. I honestly could not put it down! I want the book to keep going. This is a true love story.
This is a great read. I honestly could not put it down! I want the book to keep going. This is a true love story.
September 29, 2015
My first experience with Charlotte Hughes' writing was her collaboration with Janet Evanovich in the Full series. Knowing how much I loved those books, when I saw Miss Goody Two-Shoes, I had to give it a try.
Summary:
Helping others is a compulsory action to Melanie Abercrombie. She just can't help herself. It's who she is. This is how she came to find a scruffy, bearded ex-con on her doorstep, fresh from prison. The man Melanie has spent the last year writing to just rolled into her small town on his motorcycle, and her first thought is that he's escaped and dangerous considering the fact he was convicted of murder and was serving a life sentence. After being exonerated, Kane Stoddard decided on a whim, to travel and see the woman who helped him make it through each day of the last year. Kane had already decided to try and settle in small-town Hardeeville and get his life on track. What neither him nor Melanie anticipated was their instant attraction. Both are stunned by the unexpected feelings and urges between them. Despite knowing what he wants for the first time in his life, Kane doesn't have confidence in his ability to provide what Mel needs. And Melanie is carrying around twenty years of anger and abandonment issues. Can she trust Kane to stick around after life settles down or will he run for the nearest city just like her mother and sister did?
This contemporary romance was just okay for me. It was fast-paced which made for a quick read. I wanted to love the characters, but don't feel I could connect with them as well as I would have liked. Melanie was indeed a goody two shoes, but not in a way that she thought she was better than anyone else. She was caring, thoughtful, humble, and forgiving. I liked all of that about her, but I wanted to see her break out of her shell a bit more. I felt that she wanted to, and by the end started to, but it never quite got there. Kane was the quintessential bad boy: rough childhood, in and out of trouble throughout his whole life, culminating in a prison sentence. From the moment we met him, though, I saw a man who had it bad, but was still honest and hardworking. His biggest drawback was his quick temper. That's what bothered me. He was wrongly accused of the crime that got him put in jail, so I feel we needed more depth and information about his past to solidify his "bad boy" persona. Overall, it was a nice light, romantic read to pass the time. Their romance was sweet and held hope, and who doesn't like a romance like that? I do wish we had an epilogue, just to better stamp an end to the story. While I feel I had a better opinion of Ms. Hughes' writing when she did her collaboration, after reading the blurbs on her Kate Holly series, I think they would fit me a bit better and will try them in future. <3
An ARC was kindly provided by Victory Editing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
Helping others is a compulsory action to Melanie Abercrombie. She just can't help herself. It's who she is. This is how she came to find a scruffy, bearded ex-con on her doorstep, fresh from prison. The man Melanie has spent the last year writing to just rolled into her small town on his motorcycle, and her first thought is that he's escaped and dangerous considering the fact he was convicted of murder and was serving a life sentence. After being exonerated, Kane Stoddard decided on a whim, to travel and see the woman who helped him make it through each day of the last year. Kane had already decided to try and settle in small-town Hardeeville and get his life on track. What neither him nor Melanie anticipated was their instant attraction. Both are stunned by the unexpected feelings and urges between them. Despite knowing what he wants for the first time in his life, Kane doesn't have confidence in his ability to provide what Mel needs. And Melanie is carrying around twenty years of anger and abandonment issues. Can she trust Kane to stick around after life settles down or will he run for the nearest city just like her mother and sister did?
This contemporary romance was just okay for me. It was fast-paced which made for a quick read. I wanted to love the characters, but don't feel I could connect with them as well as I would have liked. Melanie was indeed a goody two shoes, but not in a way that she thought she was better than anyone else. She was caring, thoughtful, humble, and forgiving. I liked all of that about her, but I wanted to see her break out of her shell a bit more. I felt that she wanted to, and by the end started to, but it never quite got there. Kane was the quintessential bad boy: rough childhood, in and out of trouble throughout his whole life, culminating in a prison sentence. From the moment we met him, though, I saw a man who had it bad, but was still honest and hardworking. His biggest drawback was his quick temper. That's what bothered me. He was wrongly accused of the crime that got him put in jail, so I feel we needed more depth and information about his past to solidify his "bad boy" persona. Overall, it was a nice light, romantic read to pass the time. Their romance was sweet and held hope, and who doesn't like a romance like that? I do wish we had an epilogue, just to better stamp an end to the story. While I feel I had a better opinion of Ms. Hughes' writing when she did her collaboration, after reading the blurbs on her Kate Holly series, I think they would fit me a bit better and will try them in future. <3
An ARC was kindly provided by Victory Editing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2015
Melanie is the heroine. Kane is the hero. Melanie lives in a small town in Mississippi. She is basically the town goody two shoes. She runs a flower shop and helps her father with his grocery store. She goes to church, volunteers for things and fosters stray dogs, etc. Kane is in Prison in Kansas. He's falsely accused of murder and after serving three years, the real perpetrator confesses on his deathbed and Kane is released. Melanie had been writing to Kane while he was in prison for the last year. Her pastor had suggested she become his pen pal (no idea where the pastor got his name, etc). Kane has never written back to Melanie, but he does read and keep her letters because they mean a lot to him. When Kane is released from prison, he immediately hops on his motorcycle with $250 in his pocket to find Melanie. He thinks she can help him find work and a place to stay. But, he doesn't give her any notice that he's been released or that he's coming to see her.
Melanie's father's grocery store needs work. She's at his store waiting for a carpenter to show up to rebuild some shelves. Kane shows up and she thinks he's the carpenter. When she finally finds out who she is, Kane doesn't explain that he's been "released" and she thinks he's "escaped". That's about as funny as it gets.
The rest of it is completely predictable. They like each other. They don't like each other. Kane is angry. Melanie does everything for everyone and resents her mom for leaving them. Everyone in town knows Kane is an ex-convict and no one will hire him. Melanie does everything for everyone. They kiss. They're just friends. They kiss. Blair, Melanie's sister, is a bitch. Blair is pregnant by a married with children man. Melanie is a virgin. Kane and Melanie have sex. Kane and Melanie have sex again without a condom. Kane and Melanie have a fight. Kane asks Melanie to marry him and they'll live together with her father in his house. Blah.
Melanie's father's grocery store needs work. She's at his store waiting for a carpenter to show up to rebuild some shelves. Kane shows up and she thinks he's the carpenter. When she finally finds out who she is, Kane doesn't explain that he's been "released" and she thinks he's "escaped". That's about as funny as it gets.
The rest of it is completely predictable. They like each other. They don't like each other. Kane is angry. Melanie does everything for everyone and resents her mom for leaving them. Everyone in town knows Kane is an ex-convict and no one will hire him. Melanie does everything for everyone. They kiss. They're just friends. They kiss. Blair, Melanie's sister, is a bitch. Blair is pregnant by a married with children man. Melanie is a virgin. Kane and Melanie have sex. Kane and Melanie have sex again without a condom. Kane and Melanie have a fight. Kane asks Melanie to marry him and they'll live together with her father in his house. Blah.
September 5, 2015
2.5 Stars
Kane Stoddard has just been released from prison after two years of serving a sentence for a crime he didn’t commit, not that he was an angel, and he is heading to see the one person who kept him going whilst he was locked away. Not that he has ever seen or spoke to her, or even written to her. But Melanie Abercrombie’s letters have kept him going for two years and he wants to thank her in person and start a new life. The prim and proper Mel is exactly as he expected, however, the irresistible attraction has taken him by surprise.
Sometimes you just need a book that you can sit back, relax and read without running into lots of odd twist and turns and wild dramas, this is exactly what Miss Goody Two-Shoes delivers. This was a really enjoyable read which kept a smile on my face as I watched the sweet romance develop between Kane and Mel.
If you want something that’s going to steam your reading glasses up, then you might want to move a long, Miss Goody Two Shoes has fade to black sex scenes. Which, although I was slightly disappointed, didn’t ruin the book for me the connection between Mel and Kane was strong enough that I didn’t need a touch by touch account of them playing hide-the-bishop to reinforce this.
This was a nice read, maybe a little too short with rather an abrupt end, I kept trying to turn the page over in my kindle expecting another few chapters! But, this was pleasant easy reading, perfect and although not memorable, great for relaxing with.
November 18, 2015
Second Chances
This is a stand alone novel. I can't wait to read more amazing romantic comedies by this talented author!
Melanie is the perfect daughter. She has been taking care of her sister and father ever since her mother ran off 20 years ago. She does it partly because they are family, partly because she wants to and because she never saw any other way. Someone had to do it and it fell to her. She goes to church and helps the community and fosters abused and abandoned dogs until they can be adopted. She has a full life... Mostly. She even writes to a convicted murderer just to improve his life and give him hope... After all there is always hope. Afraid of being hurt she never much had time for romance. The closest thing she has to a beau is a widower with an amazing daughter she befriended. At least he's safe... He NEEDS her! Too bad she is having so much trouble finding a carpenter to hire for the renovations of her father's grocery store. Will she ever let anyone in? Can she ever trust enough to love someone?
Kane was freed after serving almost 3 years for a crime he didn't commit. He only got through everything because of Melanie's letters. At a loss for what to do with himself and wanting a fresh start he decided to go thank her for all she did for him. He also hoped she would help him get that fresh start in the town she made seem so ideal. Will he ever come to terms with his true feelings for her? Will he be able to accept he is worthy and give love a chance? Will they learn to let go of the past and heal enough to love truly and find happiness?
***This book is suitable for adult readers who enjoy a bit of mistaken identity in their contemporary romantic comedies with chic lit leanings full of forgiveness, hope and HEA :)
This is a stand alone novel. I can't wait to read more amazing romantic comedies by this talented author!
Melanie is the perfect daughter. She has been taking care of her sister and father ever since her mother ran off 20 years ago. She does it partly because they are family, partly because she wants to and because she never saw any other way. Someone had to do it and it fell to her. She goes to church and helps the community and fosters abused and abandoned dogs until they can be adopted. She has a full life... Mostly. She even writes to a convicted murderer just to improve his life and give him hope... After all there is always hope. Afraid of being hurt she never much had time for romance. The closest thing she has to a beau is a widower with an amazing daughter she befriended. At least he's safe... He NEEDS her! Too bad she is having so much trouble finding a carpenter to hire for the renovations of her father's grocery store. Will she ever let anyone in? Can she ever trust enough to love someone?
Kane was freed after serving almost 3 years for a crime he didn't commit. He only got through everything because of Melanie's letters. At a loss for what to do with himself and wanting a fresh start he decided to go thank her for all she did for him. He also hoped she would help him get that fresh start in the town she made seem so ideal. Will he ever come to terms with his true feelings for her? Will he be able to accept he is worthy and give love a chance? Will they learn to let go of the past and heal enough to love truly and find happiness?
***This book is suitable for adult readers who enjoy a bit of mistaken identity in their contemporary romantic comedies with chic lit leanings full of forgiveness, hope and HEA :)
August 7, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Victory Editing in exchange for an honest review.
Miss Goody Two-Shoes is a standalone contemporary romance from bestselling author Charlotte Hughes. This was originally released under the title The Devil and Miss Goody-Two Shoes, which was published in 1994 under Bantam Books' Loveswept imprint, which I have quite a paperback collection of, and has been revised and updated for its re-release. The basic story line of a formerly incarcerated man wanting to meet the woman who wrote him letters while he was serving his time for a crime he didn't commit sparked my interest. Melanie Abercrombie's initial reaction to Kane Stoddard was realistic and while the two were attracted to each other soon after meeting, it took time for them to actually fall in love.
While the story itself was good, I felt that the resolution with as far as Mel's relationship with her estranged mother was concerned was lacking, as was the case with Mel's relationship with her younger sister Blair, a supporting character who had no redeeming qualities. Other than that, I don't really have any major complaints with either the writing or the character development. The steam level may be lacking for some readers, descriptive or explicit sex scenes aren't any absolute must in the romance novels I read. Overall, this was a pretty good read and a quick one at that, thought it did feel a bit lacking in terms of that certain something that would have made it a standout. Miss Goody Two-Shoes gets three stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Victory Editing in exchange for an honest review.
Miss Goody Two-Shoes is a standalone contemporary romance from bestselling author Charlotte Hughes. This was originally released under the title The Devil and Miss Goody-Two Shoes, which was published in 1994 under Bantam Books' Loveswept imprint, which I have quite a paperback collection of, and has been revised and updated for its re-release. The basic story line of a formerly incarcerated man wanting to meet the woman who wrote him letters while he was serving his time for a crime he didn't commit sparked my interest. Melanie Abercrombie's initial reaction to Kane Stoddard was realistic and while the two were attracted to each other soon after meeting, it took time for them to actually fall in love.
While the story itself was good, I felt that the resolution with as far as Mel's relationship with her estranged mother was concerned was lacking, as was the case with Mel's relationship with her younger sister Blair, a supporting character who had no redeeming qualities. Other than that, I don't really have any major complaints with either the writing or the character development. The steam level may be lacking for some readers, descriptive or explicit sex scenes aren't any absolute must in the romance novels I read. Overall, this was a pretty good read and a quick one at that, thought it did feel a bit lacking in terms of that certain something that would have made it a standout. Miss Goody Two-Shoes gets three stars. ♥
August 9, 2015
This was a sweet story; guy gets wrongfully convicted and spends some time in jail through his last year before being released when the truth comes out, he receives letters from a mysterious girl that give him hope.
Melanie "Mel" Abercrombie has been writing letters to Kane Stoddard for a year now and has never gotten a reply so when he shows up out of the blue in her small town, she freaks out and thinks Shawshank.
Well, once Mel learns Kane didn't escape and these two get to know each other they form a really strong bond.
The chemistry between Kane and Mel was very present; however, what I didn't like was that Mel was just too good, her sister was such a Queen-B and Mel never stands up to her. Not only that, in general Mel was just too unrealistically nice; her mother abandons them and when they remeet, she doesn't shout or tell her off or anything. Even when her father is being unreasonable, she never gets mad. Kane I found more enjoyable, he seemed more realistic; guy grows up on the wrong side of the track bit of a hoodlum, but not a bad guy, gets wrongfully convicted for murder and has a bit of rage; more believable.
The only reason I found the story enjoyable is because of the way both lead characters come together to complement each other.
Rating 4 out of 5
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Melanie "Mel" Abercrombie has been writing letters to Kane Stoddard for a year now and has never gotten a reply so when he shows up out of the blue in her small town, she freaks out and thinks Shawshank.
Well, once Mel learns Kane didn't escape and these two get to know each other they form a really strong bond.
The chemistry between Kane and Mel was very present; however, what I didn't like was that Mel was just too good, her sister was such a Queen-B and Mel never stands up to her. Not only that, in general Mel was just too unrealistically nice; her mother abandons them and when they remeet, she doesn't shout or tell her off or anything. Even when her father is being unreasonable, she never gets mad. Kane I found more enjoyable, he seemed more realistic; guy grows up on the wrong side of the track bit of a hoodlum, but not a bad guy, gets wrongfully convicted for murder and has a bit of rage; more believable.
The only reason I found the story enjoyable is because of the way both lead characters come together to complement each other.
Rating 4 out of 5
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