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Coldwater #1
The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club
“A unique take on what it means to go home again.” —Kristan Higgins, New York Times bestselling author
The lake is crystal blue, the hills roll for miles, and breaking news travels via the Methodist prayer chain. But don’t let the postcard fool you. Coldwater Cove, Oklahoma, leavens its small-town charm with plenty of Ozark snark.
For Lacy Evans, returning to flyover country is the definition of failure. She had everything she wanted—an award-winning design firm, a chic city condo, a handsome, aristocratic almost-fiancé. Then her boyfriend ran off with her receptionist and her clients' money. Now she’s out of business and crashing on her parents’ couch. When she slides into a booth at the Green Apple Grill, she's feeling lower than a worm's belly.
But Lacy’s old classmate Jacob Tyler is happy to see her. Coldwater’s football hero came back from Afghanistan short part of a leg and some peace of mind, but he’s counting his blessings, and Lacy could be one of them. Then there’s her ex, Daniel, wearing a sheriff’s badge and a wedding ring, but looking like young summer love. And a host of unlikely the selfless do-gooders who sneak around taming curmudgeons and constructing second chances. The Fighting Marmots. The sprawling, take-no-prisoners Bugtussle clan.
Lacy thought she knew her hometown, and herself. She just wanted to get on her feet and keep running. But the longer she stays, the more she finds to change her mind. . .
“Readers of sweet romance will fall in love with Coldwater Cove. Lexi Eddings’s talent shines in this edgy, fresh story.” —Kristan Higgins, New York Times bestselling author
The lake is crystal blue, the hills roll for miles, and breaking news travels via the Methodist prayer chain. But don’t let the postcard fool you. Coldwater Cove, Oklahoma, leavens its small-town charm with plenty of Ozark snark.
For Lacy Evans, returning to flyover country is the definition of failure. She had everything she wanted—an award-winning design firm, a chic city condo, a handsome, aristocratic almost-fiancé. Then her boyfriend ran off with her receptionist and her clients' money. Now she’s out of business and crashing on her parents’ couch. When she slides into a booth at the Green Apple Grill, she's feeling lower than a worm's belly.
But Lacy’s old classmate Jacob Tyler is happy to see her. Coldwater’s football hero came back from Afghanistan short part of a leg and some peace of mind, but he’s counting his blessings, and Lacy could be one of them. Then there’s her ex, Daniel, wearing a sheriff’s badge and a wedding ring, but looking like young summer love. And a host of unlikely the selfless do-gooders who sneak around taming curmudgeons and constructing second chances. The Fighting Marmots. The sprawling, take-no-prisoners Bugtussle clan.
Lacy thought she knew her hometown, and herself. She just wanted to get on her feet and keep running. But the longer she stays, the more she finds to change her mind. . .
“Readers of sweet romance will fall in love with Coldwater Cove. Lexi Eddings’s talent shines in this edgy, fresh story.” —Kristan Higgins, New York Times bestselling author
- GenresRomance
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2016
33 people are currently reading
507 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 12, 2017
ARC received courtesy of Goodreads.com First Reads Giveaway
I'll be waiting patiently for more books in the "Coldwater Creek" series to come out! I loved the characters in this book: they are "real" people. The small town is an accurate representation of small towns and the people who live in those towns! This book takes a look at several Veterans issues in a realistic manner. And lastly, I love Effie the cat!
I'll be waiting patiently for more books in the "Coldwater Creek" series to come out! I loved the characters in this book: they are "real" people. The small town is an accurate representation of small towns and the people who live in those towns! This book takes a look at several Veterans issues in a realistic manner. And lastly, I love Effie the cat!
April 27, 2017
Before I go any further into my review, I have to thank someone. Thank you so much, Lexi Eddings, for sending your book my way for me to review it! I was super excited when you contacted me, like…I freaked out. You are the first author to contact me to ask if I would like to review your book!
Now for my actual review!
I wasn’t really sure what to expect. Would I enjoy it? Would I not? Well, I am happy to say that I did enjoy it very much!
Jacob and Lacy were just perfect together. I absolutely loved the fact that Jacob was the cook at the Green Apple Grill! What can get better than a man who cooks? Lacy was pretty cool too. I have to admit that I liked Jacob better than Lacy, but both were cool.
There was one downfall though. Daniel. I wished there were either more about him or less about him. Get what I mean? I wished that he either had his own story or was just a side character. So, pretty much what I mean to say is I wish that it stayed in just Jacob’s and Lacy’s point of view.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. If I am assuming correctly, I think it will be about Heather.
The cover deserves five stars. I absolutely love it! The whole reflection is awesome! I love the lake and the reflection!
As for the book, I would like to give it…4 stars!!!
Title: The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club
Author: Lexi Eddings
Author’s Website: http://lexieddings.blogspot.com/p/mai...
This review is written in my own words and opinions.
Now for my actual review!
I wasn’t really sure what to expect. Would I enjoy it? Would I not? Well, I am happy to say that I did enjoy it very much!
Jacob and Lacy were just perfect together. I absolutely loved the fact that Jacob was the cook at the Green Apple Grill! What can get better than a man who cooks? Lacy was pretty cool too. I have to admit that I liked Jacob better than Lacy, but both were cool.
There was one downfall though. Daniel. I wished there were either more about him or less about him. Get what I mean? I wished that he either had his own story or was just a side character. So, pretty much what I mean to say is I wish that it stayed in just Jacob’s and Lacy’s point of view.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. If I am assuming correctly, I think it will be about Heather.
The cover deserves five stars. I absolutely love it! The whole reflection is awesome! I love the lake and the reflection!
As for the book, I would like to give it…4 stars!!!
Title: The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club
Author: Lexi Eddings
Author’s Website: http://lexieddings.blogspot.com/p/mai...
This review is written in my own words and opinions.
August 18, 2016
+++ Arc provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, for an honest review +++
I’ve enjoyed reading this romance, although at some points of the story I felt there was too much dialogue and focusing on the heroine’s problems (they left me indifferent).
The hero is another matter, he’s an interesting and well-rounded character. A wounded hero dealing with PTSD, he owns a restaurant and he is the cook. I loved that.
The progress from childhood friends to lovers was another enjoyable aspect of the story.
Lexi Eddings depicts PTSD’s effects, both on the hero and Lester, an older veteran. The disease is not minimized, as often happens in romance novels:
“But while he had made good progress in his physical rehabilitation, his mind was betraying him more often with flashbacks and periods of hypervigilance. In some ways, that was worse than losing his leg. “ (86%)
I really liked seeing the older veteran’s evolution, he’s a refreshing character with his flaws and humbleness. He’s one of the interesting secondary characters of the story (the heroine’s father is another).
The food dimension was fun. One of these days I’m gonna try Lexi Eddings’ meatloaf recipe.
I’ve enjoyed reading this romance, although at some points of the story I felt there was too much dialogue and focusing on the heroine’s problems (they left me indifferent).
The hero is another matter, he’s an interesting and well-rounded character. A wounded hero dealing with PTSD, he owns a restaurant and he is the cook. I loved that.
The progress from childhood friends to lovers was another enjoyable aspect of the story.
Lexi Eddings depicts PTSD’s effects, both on the hero and Lester, an older veteran. The disease is not minimized, as often happens in romance novels:
“But while he had made good progress in his physical rehabilitation, his mind was betraying him more often with flashbacks and periods of hypervigilance. In some ways, that was worse than losing his leg. “ (86%)
I really liked seeing the older veteran’s evolution, he’s a refreshing character with his flaws and humbleness. He’s one of the interesting secondary characters of the story (the heroine’s father is another).
The food dimension was fun. One of these days I’m gonna try Lexi Eddings’ meatloaf recipe.
December 28, 2016
Lexi Eddings is a new voice of contemporary romance, however Mia Marlow is one of my all time favorite historical romance authors. Knowing that, I was praying that I'd at least like this new reincarnation of her writing voice. And guess what? I loved it!
For me, even though this was Lacy and Jake's story, it just felt more of an ensemble tale, and that's because we have multiple points of views and because every character you meet is three dimensional.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the author’s choice of including Jake's faith throughout the storyline. That's something I hardly encounter in romances, unless they're marked as "Christian".
If you're looking for a new voice in contemporary romance, I highly recommend Lexi Eddings and her heartwarming story of second chances, redemption, faith, hope and love.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
For me, even though this was Lacy and Jake's story, it just felt more of an ensemble tale, and that's because we have multiple points of views and because every character you meet is three dimensional.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the author’s choice of including Jake's faith throughout the storyline. That's something I hardly encounter in romances, unless they're marked as "Christian".
If you're looking for a new voice in contemporary romance, I highly recommend Lexi Eddings and her heartwarming story of second chances, redemption, faith, hope and love.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
October 13, 2016
Lexi Eddings is a new-to-me author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from this novel. What I discovered was a story with character, humour, romance, a bit of suspense, and a wonderful theme of forgiveness and second chances – although I did have one or two reservations, which I’ll get to later. Most of all, I loved the eponymous Coldwater Warm Hearts Club: a group formed by Coldwater residents who are committed to performing acts of kindness for people who are unable or unlikely to return the favour. They don’t enter the novel until almost halfway through, but the way in which they help Lester, the homeless Vietnam vet, was one of the highlights of the novel for me.
Lacy has pretty much hit rock bottom at the beginning of the novel – although she still manages to approach life with a certain amount of self-deprecating humour. Not only has she lost everything she had built up in Boston, but she’s had to take out a considerable loan from the O’Leary brothers in order to avoid facing jail time. Unfortunately they’re, um, *ahem* not the sort of lenders who accept payment by check (if you know what I mean).
But Lacy’s not the only one in Coldwater plagued by her past, and there are three other characters whose struggles form part of the story line in one form or another:
The first is Jake Tyler –a charmer with a devastating dimple and a megawatt smile, now owner of the Green Apple Grill. He had a reputation in high school as a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” kind of guy, but losing part of your leg and most of your unit in Afghanistan has a way of changing a guy’s perspective on life. It can also linger in the form of PTSD, something he’s trying to deal with quietly, by himself; not always successfully.
The second is Daniel Scott, the guy who was Lacy’s boyfriend for one breathless summer before she left for Boston. He has a ring on his left hand, but he’s also made a grave mistake – one that cost him his home and may have cost him his family as well.
And then there’s Lester, the homeless vet who’d rather be on the streets and free to imbibe than at the Samaritan House where the price of a bed is sobriety. But Jake has a bit of a soft spot for a fellow vet, and with his encouragement, the Coldwater Warm Hearts Club band together to help give Lester the second chance he needs.
As Lacy becomes involved in the lives of Coldwater’s residents, she begins to realise that the real problem with her life in Boston was that she was too busy investing in things rather than people; she had acquaintances, colleagues, and associates, but no real friends. Lacy gets her own opportunity to practise putting others first, but warm fuzzies still won’t solve her cash problem...
I loved the small-town warmth and quirks, the humour, and the theme of second chances, but there were two little things that didn’t sit so well with me. Although this isn’t a Christian romance, Jake makes reference to having ‘found faith’; and yet he occasionally indicated a willingness, even a desire, to ‘go to bed’ with Lacy. He makes it clear (to the reader) that he’s in it for the long haul now – and for more than just sex – but it was Lacy (a non-believer) who recognised that allowing that intimacy would give him a part of her heart she would never get back, and drew the line. (And good for her, I say!)
The other thing I wasn’t keen on was Jake’s dismissive attitude towards his previous marriage, or the idea that Daniel Scott would be fair game if the ring came off his finger. Thankfully, the concern I had about the direction Daniel’s story was going to take wasn't realised, but his story also felt disconnected from the rest of the novel. It took centre stage for only two or three scenes, with him as the point-of-view character, and then kind of dropped out, although he still plays a role in other aspects of the story as a secondary character. I couldn't help wondering whether his story would have been better off as a separate novella (which would allow room for a little more development, too).
In spite of those reservations, this was an enjoyable read on the whole, and I'll be interested to see what comes next in the series, when Lacy's absent brother returns home.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review.
Lacy has pretty much hit rock bottom at the beginning of the novel – although she still manages to approach life with a certain amount of self-deprecating humour. Not only has she lost everything she had built up in Boston, but she’s had to take out a considerable loan from the O’Leary brothers in order to avoid facing jail time. Unfortunately they’re, um, *ahem* not the sort of lenders who accept payment by check (if you know what I mean).
But Lacy’s not the only one in Coldwater plagued by her past, and there are three other characters whose struggles form part of the story line in one form or another:
The first is Jake Tyler –a charmer with a devastating dimple and a megawatt smile, now owner of the Green Apple Grill. He had a reputation in high school as a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” kind of guy, but losing part of your leg and most of your unit in Afghanistan has a way of changing a guy’s perspective on life. It can also linger in the form of PTSD, something he’s trying to deal with quietly, by himself; not always successfully.
The second is Daniel Scott, the guy who was Lacy’s boyfriend for one breathless summer before she left for Boston. He has a ring on his left hand, but he’s also made a grave mistake – one that cost him his home and may have cost him his family as well.
And then there’s Lester, the homeless vet who’d rather be on the streets and free to imbibe than at the Samaritan House where the price of a bed is sobriety. But Jake has a bit of a soft spot for a fellow vet, and with his encouragement, the Coldwater Warm Hearts Club band together to help give Lester the second chance he needs.
As Lacy becomes involved in the lives of Coldwater’s residents, she begins to realise that the real problem with her life in Boston was that she was too busy investing in things rather than people; she had acquaintances, colleagues, and associates, but no real friends. Lacy gets her own opportunity to practise putting others first, but warm fuzzies still won’t solve her cash problem...
I loved the small-town warmth and quirks, the humour, and the theme of second chances, but there were two little things that didn’t sit so well with me. Although this isn’t a Christian romance, Jake makes reference to having ‘found faith’; and yet he occasionally indicated a willingness, even a desire, to ‘go to bed’ with Lacy. He makes it clear (to the reader) that he’s in it for the long haul now – and for more than just sex – but it was Lacy (a non-believer) who recognised that allowing that intimacy would give him a part of her heart she would never get back, and drew the line. (And good for her, I say!)
The other thing I wasn’t keen on was Jake’s dismissive attitude towards his previous marriage, or the idea that Daniel Scott would be fair game if the ring came off his finger. Thankfully, the concern I had about the direction Daniel’s story was going to take wasn't realised, but his story also felt disconnected from the rest of the novel. It took centre stage for only two or three scenes, with him as the point-of-view character, and then kind of dropped out, although he still plays a role in other aspects of the story as a secondary character. I couldn't help wondering whether his story would have been better off as a separate novella (which would allow room for a little more development, too).
In spite of those reservations, this was an enjoyable read on the whole, and I'll be interested to see what comes next in the series, when Lacy's absent brother returns home.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review.
September 29, 2016
Let’s just start this review off right…this is one of my top five favorite small town romance of 2016. It may be my favorite small town romance of 2016 even! Seriously, it’s that good. The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club is the story of Lacy and Jacob and a small town called Coldwater Cove. Lacy has returned home after a life-altering fiasco and she reconnects with Jacob, her fifth-grade boyfriend. The two hit it off and slowly fall into a rhythm of being together among the craziness that is a small town. Jacob runs the Green Apple Grill and has PTSD after serving in Afghanistan. Lacy is figuring how to pick up the pieces of her life in a town she never thought she’d return to. Oh, it’s so good guys!
Small town romance can really run the gamut in terms of writing style and feel of the book. The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club was reminiscent of Robyn Carr’s Grace Valley trilogy for me (if the trilogy was a single book). The romance was central to the book and the plot, but we also go lots of side characters, backstory and small town charm. The story arc and pacing of this book was closer to women’s fiction.
Lacy and Jacob’s initial meeting, their reacquaintance, and their first few dates were covered in detail for the first 70% of the book and then we didn’t really catch up with them again until their big falling out. I was slightly disappointed that we didn’t get any sexy times for Lacy and Jacob but I wasn’t surprised at the author’s choice to not include sex since faith and religion were wound into the book and the storyline from the beginning (mainly through Jacob).
It’s hard for me to say anything negative about this book. From start to finish I loved every second of Jacob and Lacy together. Heck, I enjoyed every second of the side couple, Daniel and Anne. If you are looking for a feel-good book this fall and like quirky small towns, sweet romances and a bit of mystery I highly recommend The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club. The next book (A Coldwater Warm Hearts Wedding) doesn’t come out until 2017 but it’s already on my TBR pile and the release date is on my calendar. I can’t recommend this book enough. 5 well-deserved stars!
Small town romance can really run the gamut in terms of writing style and feel of the book. The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club was reminiscent of Robyn Carr’s Grace Valley trilogy for me (if the trilogy was a single book). The romance was central to the book and the plot, but we also go lots of side characters, backstory and small town charm. The story arc and pacing of this book was closer to women’s fiction.
Lacy and Jacob’s initial meeting, their reacquaintance, and their first few dates were covered in detail for the first 70% of the book and then we didn’t really catch up with them again until their big falling out. I was slightly disappointed that we didn’t get any sexy times for Lacy and Jacob but I wasn’t surprised at the author’s choice to not include sex since faith and religion were wound into the book and the storyline from the beginning (mainly through Jacob).
It’s hard for me to say anything negative about this book. From start to finish I loved every second of Jacob and Lacy together. Heck, I enjoyed every second of the side couple, Daniel and Anne. If you are looking for a feel-good book this fall and like quirky small towns, sweet romances and a bit of mystery I highly recommend The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club. The next book (A Coldwater Warm Hearts Wedding) doesn’t come out until 2017 but it’s already on my TBR pile and the release date is on my calendar. I can’t recommend this book enough. 5 well-deserved stars!
January 4, 2017
The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club is quite a mouthful for a title and the story is absolutely delightful. This is by new to me author Lexi Eddings and focuses on returning daughter Lacy Evans going home to the town she didn’t want to have to come crawling back to and especially not as a failure. Having made a big mistake in the romance department with her ex-boyfriend and having to pay restitution to their business clients to avoid jail time, Lacy has come back home to hopefully stay under the radar. Meanwhile, her high school sweetheart Daniel has moved on without her however, former high school heartthrob Jacob has returned from Afghanistan as a war hero (missing part of his leg) and he wants to get reacquainted. She and Jacob strike up a friendship, Jacob hoping for more and Lacy trying to find her place in the world again.
What I really liked about this book is the author put comments from the other townspeople of Coldwater right before every chapter. By doing that we really get a sense for who these other characters are that surround Lacy and Jacob just from a sentence or two. The author really takes on the sensitive issue of PTSD and along with Jacob we see how debilitating and scary it can be to try to handle it on your own. There is a blossoming, swoon worthy romance that I was really rooting for along with a thread of unease that is just in the background. The author includes some recipes in the back of the book that the people in the story enjoyed and they sound mouthwatering. I hope to try some soon.
Overall, I really liked these characters, the town, and their plights and I very much look forward to continuing the series in April with the next release. This is pretty much a clean story and Lexi Eddings is going on my authors to watch list.
I received a copy of this book for free from the author/publisher. I was not required to give a positive review and all the views expressed are my own.
What I really liked about this book is the author put comments from the other townspeople of Coldwater right before every chapter. By doing that we really get a sense for who these other characters are that surround Lacy and Jacob just from a sentence or two. The author really takes on the sensitive issue of PTSD and along with Jacob we see how debilitating and scary it can be to try to handle it on your own. There is a blossoming, swoon worthy romance that I was really rooting for along with a thread of unease that is just in the background. The author includes some recipes in the back of the book that the people in the story enjoyed and they sound mouthwatering. I hope to try some soon.
Overall, I really liked these characters, the town, and their plights and I very much look forward to continuing the series in April with the next release. This is pretty much a clean story and Lexi Eddings is going on my authors to watch list.
I received a copy of this book for free from the author/publisher. I was not required to give a positive review and all the views expressed are my own.
September 17, 2016
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Kensington via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is September 27th, 2016.
This was really a story, at it's core, about coming home. Meaning getting to that place where you are accepted no matter what, you are comfortable in your own skin and everything happens for a reason. We all have that place, regardless of what out definition of home is.
This story was just ok for me. I was not wowed, nor was I disappointed. I think that the story had a really good message but the flip side of that is that everyone seemed too kind and generous in the book. From the prayer chains to the warm hearts club, it seemed everyone was out to do good. Don't get me wrong, the world would be a better place if everyone was like this, but the jaded and realistic side of me knows that this is not a predominant in today's society. Maybe I am too jaded but it made the story feel too squeaky clean to me.
This is however a feel good story and if you take it at face value, it is still an ok read.
received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Kensington via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is September 27th, 2016.
This was really a story, at it's core, about coming home. Meaning getting to that place where you are accepted no matter what, you are comfortable in your own skin and everything happens for a reason. We all have that place, regardless of what out definition of home is.
This story was just ok for me. I was not wowed, nor was I disappointed. I think that the story had a really good message but the flip side of that is that everyone seemed too kind and generous in the book. From the prayer chains to the warm hearts club, it seemed everyone was out to do good. Don't get me wrong, the world would be a better place if everyone was like this, but the jaded and realistic side of me knows that this is not a predominant in today's society. Maybe I am too jaded but it made the story feel too squeaky clean to me.
This is however a feel good story and if you take it at face value, it is still an ok read.
April 19, 2024
This is a charming book. There are two very good tenets in this story and the author does a good job illustrating the reader in what they are. One is that you can't make a person change or turn over a new leaf. They have to decide to do it on their own. And with the right support system in place (or in this case, characters) they're going to be more successful. BUT, they are the ones who have to decide to exchange their bad conduct for good behavior. And each character has to realize their ultimate decision has consequences.
The second principle and one I firmly believe in, is that a person shouldn't base their charitable actions on how it will make them look to the community. Or take the "what will I get in return for doing this?" attitude. Sometimes, just doing a good turn because it's the right thing to do is the best reason. A prime example of this theory in the book is the Erté painting.
Coming from a small town myself, I understood the dynamics of Coldwater Cove in Oklahoma. There's always a prominently wealthy family and other families who have had their challenges. But overall, there's always a citizen who gives of themselves anonymously and with great humility.
I would have given the book five stars, but something happened towards the end of the story I found questionable. Can't relay it here without providing a spoiler, so I won't. Other readers will probably be more accepting and I respect that. I just felt the author rushed it a bit.
Enjoyed Ms. Eddings' (pseudonym) writing so much that I will definitely read the next book in the series.
The second principle and one I firmly believe in, is that a person shouldn't base their charitable actions on how it will make them look to the community. Or take the "what will I get in return for doing this?" attitude. Sometimes, just doing a good turn because it's the right thing to do is the best reason. A prime example of this theory in the book is the Erté painting.
Coming from a small town myself, I understood the dynamics of Coldwater Cove in Oklahoma. There's always a prominently wealthy family and other families who have had their challenges. But overall, there's always a citizen who gives of themselves anonymously and with great humility.
I would have given the book five stars, but something happened towards the end of the story I found questionable. Can't relay it here without providing a spoiler, so I won't. Other readers will probably be more accepting and I respect that. I just felt the author rushed it a bit.
Enjoyed Ms. Eddings' (pseudonym) writing so much that I will definitely read the next book in the series.
January 2, 2017
The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club by Lexi Eddings is a popular fiction novel with some romance, hope and karma. The book shared a story about how you can go back home again. The larger focus on learning to go home again is understanding that giving of yourself and helping others is the greatest gift and will come back to you.
Lacy Evans had to move home, a small town near nothing where everyone knows everyone. Her business partner and significant other stole all the money from their business in Boston. Lucy was horrified and embarrassed about having to go home. She needs to start again and money’s a huge concern as she had to pay back the loan sharks she had to borrow from.
Jacob Tyler owns and runs the Green Apple Grill. He has returned from Afghanistan missing part of his leg. He has restarted his life, but the horror of war has never left him. Lacy makes him feel more, but can she stand him - the way he is now. Lucy and Jacob have a lot to learn and to figure out. They are fun together and I love how hard they are willing to work together. There are a couple of surprise twists in the book which just makes the book more endearing. The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club by Lexi Eddings was a great read.
Lacy Evans had to move home, a small town near nothing where everyone knows everyone. Her business partner and significant other stole all the money from their business in Boston. Lucy was horrified and embarrassed about having to go home. She needs to start again and money’s a huge concern as she had to pay back the loan sharks she had to borrow from.
Jacob Tyler owns and runs the Green Apple Grill. He has returned from Afghanistan missing part of his leg. He has restarted his life, but the horror of war has never left him. Lacy makes him feel more, but can she stand him - the way he is now. Lucy and Jacob have a lot to learn and to figure out. They are fun together and I love how hard they are willing to work together. There are a couple of surprise twists in the book which just makes the book more endearing. The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club by Lexi Eddings was a great read.
May 11, 2021
1.5 to 2.0 stars (rounding down because ... well... I feel like rounding down)
To be honest, I knew going into this book that it was likely not my cup of tea. However, my initial impression was that it was going to be a typical rom-com kind of book (which would have been perfectly fine and maybe even enjoyable). Unfortunately what I didn't realize until I was well into the book is that it would have religious undertones. As someone else said in their review, I don't have a problem with religion but it made the novel seem very innocent and G-Rating like. Some people might really like that style of writing but for me it was kind of eye-roll inducing and simply unbelievable. Like Hallmark movie vibes (but maybe worse?).
Anyhow, ultimately it was simply too unbelievable for me to like. I finished it but I won't be reading any of the other books in this series.
To be honest, I knew going into this book that it was likely not my cup of tea. However, my initial impression was that it was going to be a typical rom-com kind of book (which would have been perfectly fine and maybe even enjoyable). Unfortunately what I didn't realize until I was well into the book is that it would have religious undertones. As someone else said in their review, I don't have a problem with religion but it made the novel seem very innocent and G-Rating like. Some people might really like that style of writing but for me it was kind of eye-roll inducing and simply unbelievable. Like Hallmark movie vibes (but maybe worse?).
Anyhow, ultimately it was simply too unbelievable for me to like. I finished it but I won't be reading any of the other books in this series.
July 6, 2017
Had I known about the religious undertones, I probably would not have read this book. I have no problems with religion per se but because of it, the book had an innocent quality that just didn't seem to fit typical older twenty-something characters who are falling in love. I read it for the "going back home" theme but it wasn't enough to keep me engaged. I skimmed through the last several chapters.
August 27, 2017
I received this book through Goodreads Giveaways in exchange for a fair and honest review .
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were likable and easy to relate to. You will find yourself hoping that things work out for Lacy and that Jacob can get past his issues. You will also hope that their friendship will become something more. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Coldwater Warm Hearts series.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were likable and easy to relate to. You will find yourself hoping that things work out for Lacy and that Jacob can get past his issues. You will also hope that their friendship will become something more. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Coldwater Warm Hearts series.
January 3, 2022
Coldwater Warm Hearts club Eddings, Lexi 3 F Drama woman returns from big city to small town after former boyfriend partner runs off with client's money, finds new life writing for local paper & going out with old classmate just back from Afghanistan with PTSD flashbacks, simpler pleasures family religion & small town regains Faith, desire help homeless vets & others to do good tests her to overcome stereotypes & find home +characters 2017 8/16/2017 8/12/2017
July 5, 2017
This book was very drawn out and did not meet expectations. There is a sequel to the book that I will not read. It was poorly written. The main character was immature and did not handle situations as an adult. Instead of communicating with her romantic interest, she kept things secret and pushed him away. I am not curious to find out in what happens in the second book.
May 6, 2017
As a woman of faith it's often difficult to find a good book that isn't offensive, so I was thrilled to find it in Coldwater. It's not by any means a preachy book, yet it's full of faith just the same. I absolutely loved it!
January 19, 2018
This was the first book by this author that I have read and loved it. Do not let the title fool you, The Coldwater Warm Hearst Club is a club that helps people down a bit on their luck. This was also a great romantic love story to it.
October 4, 2018
Great small-town feel. Loved Jake, the cook hero who was a veteran. Lacy was a bit annoying at times, but I think that was the point. Loved how this book was fun, but really touched upon PTSD. Things were a little slow but I quite liked the town and overall resolution.
June 6, 2019
This is a sweet romance story with a dash of humor and lots of local flavor. It's very well written! Not my normal reading material, but it's light and delightful for a change of pace. I especially love how well drawn the characters are, every one of them, not just the two protagonists.
July 11, 2017
I thought it was a great love story. Predictable, but good.
July 2, 2018
I will definitely finish reading the series. This is a feel good small town type of book.
February 10, 2021
I enjoyed this book, found it an easy read and loved the characters. Jacob and Lacy worked well together although from the start I thought Daniel would be a reason for them not to get together. I, wrongly assumed the book would focus on the Daniel versus Jacob romantic battle over Lacy. However, that does not mean I did not like the book or the characters who featured in it. I look forward to reading more of Lexi's work.
March 14, 2024
Warmwater Cold Hearts was a nice title.
March 14, 2021
Loved this book. It was well written and had good character development. I'm excited to read the other books in the series.
March 6, 2017
ending was "hurried" and too "cliché" - the book didn't need a "Happily ever after.."
September 28, 2016
The title of this book review should be “You Can’t Judge a Book by Its Back Cover Blurb.” When I read the blurb, I moaned to my husband, “If the book reads like this, it’s going to be a long, painful read.” Ah, but instead between the covers lay a tender, sweet story, a story of coming to terms with life’s difficulties and moving on to better things. It’s a story of looking beyond oneself, and the blessings that come from reaching out to others.
Lacy has returned home after a betrayal that has left her emotionally and financially drained. She feels like returning to the small town of Coldwater, Oklahoma is a giant step backward. Jacob has returned to Coldwater after sustaining severe physical trauma while serving as a marine in Afghanistan, leaving him to cope with PTSD. Jacob, once the local love ‘em and leave ‘em heart throb, is now looking for someone with whom he can have a deeper relationship, someone who can see him rather than his injury. Lacy is not ready to put herself in a position to be hurt again, not ready to trust. Will their friendship stand up to their insecurities; is there hope that it may develop into something more?
Then there is Daniel Scott, Lacy’s former boyfriend and Jacob’s former best friend. Daniel struggles with his relationship with his wife who is fighting in the only way she knows how to help him overcome his addiction. He struggles with his relationship with the abusive father of his childhood, now an alcoholic, homeless Vietnam vet whom the Coldwater Warm Hearts Club has taken under their wing. Will Lacy’s reappearance make reconciliation with his wife more challenging? How will it impact what little remains of his connection to Jacob, the friend who kept him from making what might have been the biggest mistake of his life?
Those who read my reviews will be accustomed to their being about books that strictly adhere to the standards set forth for Christian fiction. So, I feel obligated to mention that while The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club does have faith based themes, it would better be described as a sweet romance. There is just a bit of language that one would not find in Christian fiction. While sex outside of marriage is alluded to, there are no steamy, explicit sex scenes. I do not believe fans of Christian fiction will feel as if they have compromised by reading this sweet story. Lacy is a seeker, Jacob is rediscovering his faith. Thankfully God gives each of us grace as we work toward maturity in our faith.
I thank Lacy Eddings and Kensington Books for providing me with a copy of The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club in exchange for my honest opinion. I have received no monetary compensation for this review.
Lacy has returned home after a betrayal that has left her emotionally and financially drained. She feels like returning to the small town of Coldwater, Oklahoma is a giant step backward. Jacob has returned to Coldwater after sustaining severe physical trauma while serving as a marine in Afghanistan, leaving him to cope with PTSD. Jacob, once the local love ‘em and leave ‘em heart throb, is now looking for someone with whom he can have a deeper relationship, someone who can see him rather than his injury. Lacy is not ready to put herself in a position to be hurt again, not ready to trust. Will their friendship stand up to their insecurities; is there hope that it may develop into something more?
Then there is Daniel Scott, Lacy’s former boyfriend and Jacob’s former best friend. Daniel struggles with his relationship with his wife who is fighting in the only way she knows how to help him overcome his addiction. He struggles with his relationship with the abusive father of his childhood, now an alcoholic, homeless Vietnam vet whom the Coldwater Warm Hearts Club has taken under their wing. Will Lacy’s reappearance make reconciliation with his wife more challenging? How will it impact what little remains of his connection to Jacob, the friend who kept him from making what might have been the biggest mistake of his life?
Those who read my reviews will be accustomed to their being about books that strictly adhere to the standards set forth for Christian fiction. So, I feel obligated to mention that while The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club does have faith based themes, it would better be described as a sweet romance. There is just a bit of language that one would not find in Christian fiction. While sex outside of marriage is alluded to, there are no steamy, explicit sex scenes. I do not believe fans of Christian fiction will feel as if they have compromised by reading this sweet story. Lacy is a seeker, Jacob is rediscovering his faith. Thankfully God gives each of us grace as we work toward maturity in our faith.
I thank Lacy Eddings and Kensington Books for providing me with a copy of The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club in exchange for my honest opinion. I have received no monetary compensation for this review.
September 22, 2016
Lexi Eddings is a new author for me and I love finding to authors.
When I heard the name of this book I knew it was one I wanted to read, but when I found the book description I was more than intrigued. Of course the beautiful cover just gives a glimpse of the wonderful story inside.
I loved everything about this book!
From the plot to the characters, and did I mention Lexi has included recipes from the Green Apple Grill. Yes, an author after my heart.
This story is set in the foothills of the Ozarks in a small town of Coldwater Cove.
Coldwater Cove is your typical small town with one exception.
It has the Methodist prayer chain.
Everyone and everything makes it there, not out of meanness though.
Lacy Evans has arrived back home. Willingly? No, it was a matter of necessity.
The last few months have been difficult to say the least, but her survival instincts kicked in. She doesn't expect a warm welcome, but life has many surprises in store for her yet.
I liked Lacy mostly because she takes lemons and makes lemonade. She's faced with not only starting over in the place she begun, but also facing the fact everyone has heard about her mistakes. She plans to first find a place to live, then a job and hopefully finally lay her past to rest.
In this story we meet a variety of interesting characters, but Jake Tyler stole my heart and there's no other way to put it. He was the guy who stole every girl's heart in high school with that crooked little grin. Of course life has not gone as planned for him, but it rarely does for anyone. He received a football scholarship to college where he obtained several concussions, then a stint in the marines where he obtained injuries, both seen and unseen, and home he came to take over and run the Green Apple Grill. Then there's Daniel, Lacy's ex, who is now wearing the sheriff's badge and sporting a wedding ring.
This story contains elements of humor, heartbreak, second chances, faith and love. This is a wonderful story about going home and finding that even though some things stay the same, somethings are different. But has it really, or have we changed?
This is a story I would recommend to anyone who loves a clean, sweet romance.
**I received this book from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influence.
When I heard the name of this book I knew it was one I wanted to read, but when I found the book description I was more than intrigued. Of course the beautiful cover just gives a glimpse of the wonderful story inside.
I loved everything about this book!
From the plot to the characters, and did I mention Lexi has included recipes from the Green Apple Grill. Yes, an author after my heart.
This story is set in the foothills of the Ozarks in a small town of Coldwater Cove.
Coldwater Cove is your typical small town with one exception.
It has the Methodist prayer chain.
Everyone and everything makes it there, not out of meanness though.
Lacy Evans has arrived back home. Willingly? No, it was a matter of necessity.
The last few months have been difficult to say the least, but her survival instincts kicked in. She doesn't expect a warm welcome, but life has many surprises in store for her yet.
I liked Lacy mostly because she takes lemons and makes lemonade. She's faced with not only starting over in the place she begun, but also facing the fact everyone has heard about her mistakes. She plans to first find a place to live, then a job and hopefully finally lay her past to rest.
In this story we meet a variety of interesting characters, but Jake Tyler stole my heart and there's no other way to put it. He was the guy who stole every girl's heart in high school with that crooked little grin. Of course life has not gone as planned for him, but it rarely does for anyone. He received a football scholarship to college where he obtained several concussions, then a stint in the marines where he obtained injuries, both seen and unseen, and home he came to take over and run the Green Apple Grill. Then there's Daniel, Lacy's ex, who is now wearing the sheriff's badge and sporting a wedding ring.
This story contains elements of humor, heartbreak, second chances, faith and love. This is a wonderful story about going home and finding that even though some things stay the same, somethings are different. But has it really, or have we changed?
This is a story I would recommend to anyone who loves a clean, sweet romance.
**I received this book from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influence.
December 28, 2016
This book entered new territory for me when it added veterans who suffered from PTSD. The entries at the beginning of each chapter added a real small town atmosphere to the book. I loved the fact that Lacy is drawn into the town's life as she covers stories about them. The cat that she is forced to take in, who refuses to accept her is a perfect metaphor for her own life and how she pushes people away. Really hope there will be more in this series.
September 26, 2016
The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club by Lexi Eddings is the first book in her new Coldwater series. This was a nicely done romance that also touches on the hero’s issues with PTSD (he was a wounded war hero, having major flashbacks).
Lacey Evans is returning home to Coldwater, after losing everything she owned to the betrayal of her partner and now ex boyfriend, who took all the money and ran. Lacey had left Coldwater quickly after her graduation and made a successful career as a designer, and now with herself in financial ruin, she finds herself where she never wanted to return. Arriving in Coldwater in the early morning hours, she stops at the local eatery for a bite to eat, before going home to her parents.
Jacob Tyler, our hero, runs the Green Apple Grill and recognizes Lacey immediately. Lacey is surprised to see Jacob cooking, and equally shocked to see that he is wearing a prosthetic leg, having lost part of his leg in war torn Afghanistan. Jacob has learned to accept his disability and has done well running the grill, but underneath it all, he has his own secret issues in the form of flashback nightmares at night.
What follows is a slow built romance the will find two friends, with their own problems, learn that living in Coldwater isn’t so bad, and love is has a way of sneaking up on you. Lacey rebuilds her life, finding that she is content to stay in Coldwater. Jacob senses that Lacey is the woman for him, who also comfortable with his disability. But both of them are also gun shy on relationships; Lacey with her ex and Jacob with the fiancée who left him after his injury. I thought Jacob and Lacey made an engaging couple, as I found myself rooting for them to get past each of their own issues. There was also a side story of Lacey’s former teenage boyfriend, Daniel, who is now the sheriff, as he trys to convince his separated wife to give him another chance. Another nice feature was the warm Hearts Club that helped those in need.
The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club was a nice sweet romance, with a small town background and a couple trying to overcome issues to find love.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Lacey Evans is returning home to Coldwater, after losing everything she owned to the betrayal of her partner and now ex boyfriend, who took all the money and ran. Lacey had left Coldwater quickly after her graduation and made a successful career as a designer, and now with herself in financial ruin, she finds herself where she never wanted to return. Arriving in Coldwater in the early morning hours, she stops at the local eatery for a bite to eat, before going home to her parents.
Jacob Tyler, our hero, runs the Green Apple Grill and recognizes Lacey immediately. Lacey is surprised to see Jacob cooking, and equally shocked to see that he is wearing a prosthetic leg, having lost part of his leg in war torn Afghanistan. Jacob has learned to accept his disability and has done well running the grill, but underneath it all, he has his own secret issues in the form of flashback nightmares at night.
What follows is a slow built romance the will find two friends, with their own problems, learn that living in Coldwater isn’t so bad, and love is has a way of sneaking up on you. Lacey rebuilds her life, finding that she is content to stay in Coldwater. Jacob senses that Lacey is the woman for him, who also comfortable with his disability. But both of them are also gun shy on relationships; Lacey with her ex and Jacob with the fiancée who left him after his injury. I thought Jacob and Lacey made an engaging couple, as I found myself rooting for them to get past each of their own issues. There was also a side story of Lacey’s former teenage boyfriend, Daniel, who is now the sheriff, as he trys to convince his separated wife to give him another chance. Another nice feature was the warm Hearts Club that helped those in need.
The Coldwater Warm Hearts Club was a nice sweet romance, with a small town background and a couple trying to overcome issues to find love.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
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