What do you think?
Rate this book
The Donnelly Brothers #3
The Bachelor's Sweetheart
Falling for the Bachelor
Tessa Hamilton never imagined the hardest part of having her best friend help renovate her small-town movie theater would be keeping her heart safe. She can't fall for a man who has no interest in a serious relationship with any woman…and who doesn't know the secret she hides. Besides, Josh Donnelly is too eager to leave Paradox Lake—especially when his estranged father returns. Tessa struggles with the turmoil, but as she falls deeper for the bachelor, she knows she must be honest if there's any chance for them. But will telling Josh put everything at risk—including their friendship?
Tessa Hamilton never imagined the hardest part of having her best friend help renovate her small-town movie theater would be keeping her heart safe. She can't fall for a man who has no interest in a serious relationship with any woman…and who doesn't know the secret she hides. Besides, Josh Donnelly is too eager to leave Paradox Lake—especially when his estranged father returns. Tessa struggles with the turmoil, but as she falls deeper for the bachelor, she knows she must be honest if there's any chance for them. But will telling Josh put everything at risk—including their friendship?
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published July 19, 2016
3 people are currently reading
323 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 22, 2016
The Bachelor's Sweetheart is the third book in the Donnelly Brothers series by Jean C. Gordon. It is the story of Josh, the middle brother who is still dealing with the hurt of his father's desertion and alcoholism, and his best friend Tessa. Although it is part of a series, the book can be read as a standalone. The characters are believable. The story and its twists caused a couple of sleepless nights when I couldn't put the book done.
I fell in love with the Donnelly Brothers when reading this series. Now that there's a book about each brother, I'm hoping that Jean C. Gordon, the author, can find a half-brother looking for love for a future book. I received an e-book copy of this book in exchange for a review and promotion. The free book didn't influence my review.
I fell in love with the Donnelly Brothers when reading this series. Now that there's a book about each brother, I'm hoping that Jean C. Gordon, the author, can find a half-brother looking for love for a future book. I received an e-book copy of this book in exchange for a review and promotion. The free book didn't influence my review.
September 1, 2016
Jean C. Gordon created a winner with the realistic and true to life issues in The Bachelor’s Sweetheart, book three in The Donnelley Brothers series. I could not stop reading until I read the last word (all other activities had to be put on hold that evening).
Josh Donnelley, the middle brother of the Donnelley brothers, has one primary aspiration and that is to climb his way to the top with his employer Green Spaces. Josh is more than ready to leave Paradox Lake once his declared deceased father came back to town. The Donnelley brothers did not have an easy childhood, with their dad being known as the town’s drunk and abandoning their mother and sons earlier. Josh had seen Jared and Connor recently married but he was not interested in marriage.
Tessa Hamilton recruits Josh to assist her with the renovation of the local movie theater, Majestic, that she inherited from her grandfather. Tessa’s past is not something she is proud of and only her grandparents really knew she was a recovering alcoholic from her college days. Josh and Tessa interactions are very tense at times when Josh is discussing his past and his alcoholic father. Does Josh leave Tessa defending for herself when he sees her after he attended an Al-Anon meeting? Why would Tessa be talking to his father? I do not want to give too much away in the final book of The Donnelley Brothers.
I encourage readers to read the entire series and fall in love with characters that will stay with you and tug at your emotions with positive and negative feelings.
Gordon is a gifted author with stories that readers can relate to. Her characters are well developed with matters that are customary issues family members, friends and acquaintances face in real life. Gordon interweaves the message of God’s love, redemption, forgiveness and second chances into her books that draws a reader in.
I won a copy of The Bachelor’s Sweetheart from a blog post giveaway. I was not required to write a review but wanted to share my honest review as The Bachelor’s Sweetheart is a 5 star book. In fact, the entire series is 5 stars for this reader with Winning the Teacher’s Heart being purchased and Holiday Homecoming being gifted.
Josh Donnelley, the middle brother of the Donnelley brothers, has one primary aspiration and that is to climb his way to the top with his employer Green Spaces. Josh is more than ready to leave Paradox Lake once his declared deceased father came back to town. The Donnelley brothers did not have an easy childhood, with their dad being known as the town’s drunk and abandoning their mother and sons earlier. Josh had seen Jared and Connor recently married but he was not interested in marriage.
Tessa Hamilton recruits Josh to assist her with the renovation of the local movie theater, Majestic, that she inherited from her grandfather. Tessa’s past is not something she is proud of and only her grandparents really knew she was a recovering alcoholic from her college days. Josh and Tessa interactions are very tense at times when Josh is discussing his past and his alcoholic father. Does Josh leave Tessa defending for herself when he sees her after he attended an Al-Anon meeting? Why would Tessa be talking to his father? I do not want to give too much away in the final book of The Donnelley Brothers.
I encourage readers to read the entire series and fall in love with characters that will stay with you and tug at your emotions with positive and negative feelings.
Gordon is a gifted author with stories that readers can relate to. Her characters are well developed with matters that are customary issues family members, friends and acquaintances face in real life. Gordon interweaves the message of God’s love, redemption, forgiveness and second chances into her books that draws a reader in.
I won a copy of The Bachelor’s Sweetheart from a blog post giveaway. I was not required to write a review but wanted to share my honest review as The Bachelor’s Sweetheart is a 5 star book. In fact, the entire series is 5 stars for this reader with Winning the Teacher’s Heart being purchased and Holiday Homecoming being gifted.
July 19, 2016
For years, Tessa and Josh have gotten along so well as close buds. But the resurfacing of Josh's unresolved past and a related, crucial secret of Tessa's puts their friendship--and possibly more--on the line in The Bachelor's Sweetheart by author Jean C. Gordon.
A sweet title and cover, this novel has, and a sweet romance it is. But the story also brings quite a mix of characters together to deal with some tough issues (dysfunction, disappointments, disease, distrust) and their effects on the young and old. I could feel my heart sinking at points as a spiral of key conversations and events had me nervous and intrigued to see how Josh and Tessa would handle the truth once it all came out. The story's themes of serious dependence on God as well as the serious need for other people work well together.
Although this novel is third in The Donnelly Brothers series, it stands alone nicely, and it doesn't seem to give everything in the preceding books away, for those who may happen to read the novels out of order. I'd recommend Josh and Tessa's story to fans of romance with faith and redemption.
____________
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A sweet title and cover, this novel has, and a sweet romance it is. But the story also brings quite a mix of characters together to deal with some tough issues (dysfunction, disappointments, disease, distrust) and their effects on the young and old. I could feel my heart sinking at points as a spiral of key conversations and events had me nervous and intrigued to see how Josh and Tessa would handle the truth once it all came out. The story's themes of serious dependence on God as well as the serious need for other people work well together.
Although this novel is third in The Donnelly Brothers series, it stands alone nicely, and it doesn't seem to give everything in the preceding books away, for those who may happen to read the novels out of order. I'd recommend Josh and Tessa's story to fans of romance with faith and redemption.
____________
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2016
THE BACHELOR'S SWEETHEART is third in The Donnelly Brothers series, but it does stand-alone. Fans will likely want to go back and read the first two: Winning the Teacher's Heart and Holiday Homecoming.
THE BACHELOR'S SWEETHEART starts out with a wedding - Josh's brother's - but Josh isn't too excited about it. Marriage isn't for the Donnelly brothers -- and yet both of his have fallen snare to the tangled web. He asked his best friend, Tessa, to attend with him, and she does, even though she is not a bridesmaid -- but who is the man beside her when she goes through the receiving line? Why does he only speak french? And what is this unfamiliar emotion working through Josh when he sees Tessa with the Frenchman?
Add a quirky chicken dance, a hodgepodge of familiar characters from the previous book and this romance takes on a family saga feeling that deals with a lot of issues, such as: dysfunction, disappointment, disease, and distrust. Fans of Ms. Gordon's books know she doesn't shy away from issues and writes a compelling story. Don't miss THE BACHELOR'S SWEETHEART.
THE BACHELOR'S SWEETHEART starts out with a wedding - Josh's brother's - but Josh isn't too excited about it. Marriage isn't for the Donnelly brothers -- and yet both of his have fallen snare to the tangled web. He asked his best friend, Tessa, to attend with him, and she does, even though she is not a bridesmaid -- but who is the man beside her when she goes through the receiving line? Why does he only speak french? And what is this unfamiliar emotion working through Josh when he sees Tessa with the Frenchman?
Add a quirky chicken dance, a hodgepodge of familiar characters from the previous book and this romance takes on a family saga feeling that deals with a lot of issues, such as: dysfunction, disappointment, disease, and distrust. Fans of Ms. Gordon's books know she doesn't shy away from issues and writes a compelling story. Don't miss THE BACHELOR'S SWEETHEART.
December 11, 2022
3.5 stars. A friend (MH) sent me this book in a box of books. It is part of a subseries but can be read as a standalone if wanted.
Josh Donnelly and Tessa Hamilton are the two main characters of this book. Tessa has taken over running the local movie theater and has a plan to also include dinner theater. Enter her long-time friend Josh to help with the renovation.
Possible Triggers for some readers:
Josh grew up with an alcoholic father who at some point deserted his family
Tessa is a recovering alcoholic
AA and Al-Anon
Josh Donnelly and Tessa Hamilton are the two main characters of this book. Tessa has taken over running the local movie theater and has a plan to also include dinner theater. Enter her long-time friend Josh to help with the renovation.
Possible Triggers for some readers:
Josh grew up with an alcoholic father who at some point deserted his family
Tessa is a recovering alcoholic
AA and Al-Anon
December 29, 2019
Inspirational romance.
August 1, 2022
I liked the Christian ✝️ theme in this story but I'm sorry I stopped reading this story 📖 at chapter 3 because it didn't grab my interest.
July 21, 2016
What a powerful story!!
Jean Gordon quickly becomes a favorite author with her sweet, real to life stories. This series touches me deeply. It's about a family, the Donnelly's of course, who grew up in the small community of Schroon Lake. The Donnelly brothers grew up with the stigma of having a father known as the town drunk who took off never to be heard from again. Each brother chose their own path, but each must deal with the past before they can move on to a future.
This is Josh's story. It's a story of friendship, second chances and forgiveness.
Josh is the middle brother and has always had a lot of ambition. He works for GreenSpaces and is on the fast-tract to move up the corporate ladder. He feels his life is settled. His best friend for the past couple of years has been Tessa Hamilton.
Tessa inherited the Majestic, a movie theater, located in Schroon Lake from her grandfather a few years ago. She has had big dreams of renovating it into a dinner theater for years, but most thought she should just sell it and return to her job as a civil engineer. Once she secured financing her next step was to begin construction, so she turns to her best friend, Josh, for assistance.
Just as things start coming together for both Josh and Tessa, Josh's father shows back up in town. Old wounds and hidden secrets emerge. This is a story of friendship, forgiveness, second chances and love. The first few pages drew me in quickly. The plot line kept me turning the pages. Jean Gordon takes on tough issues that are resolved realistically. This is a book and series that I would recommend to anyone.
*I received this book from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influence. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jean Gordon quickly becomes a favorite author with her sweet, real to life stories. This series touches me deeply. It's about a family, the Donnelly's of course, who grew up in the small community of Schroon Lake. The Donnelly brothers grew up with the stigma of having a father known as the town drunk who took off never to be heard from again. Each brother chose their own path, but each must deal with the past before they can move on to a future.
This is Josh's story. It's a story of friendship, second chances and forgiveness.
Josh is the middle brother and has always had a lot of ambition. He works for GreenSpaces and is on the fast-tract to move up the corporate ladder. He feels his life is settled. His best friend for the past couple of years has been Tessa Hamilton.
Tessa inherited the Majestic, a movie theater, located in Schroon Lake from her grandfather a few years ago. She has had big dreams of renovating it into a dinner theater for years, but most thought she should just sell it and return to her job as a civil engineer. Once she secured financing her next step was to begin construction, so she turns to her best friend, Josh, for assistance.
Just as things start coming together for both Josh and Tessa, Josh's father shows back up in town. Old wounds and hidden secrets emerge. This is a story of friendship, forgiveness, second chances and love. The first few pages drew me in quickly. The plot line kept me turning the pages. Jean Gordon takes on tough issues that are resolved realistically. This is a book and series that I would recommend to anyone.
*I received this book from the author for a honest review without bias or outside influence. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 14, 2017
I read the first two books in the series and really liked them, especially Winning the Teacher's Heart, so I decided to finish the series and picked up a copy of The Bachelor's Sweetheart. Of the three, this one is by far my least favorite. It was very slow, I did not like the hero, and the ending was very rushed--I don't think they have a strong relationship, making me skeptical about a successful marriage.
That being said some things that I did like was Gordon's writing style, it's very calming, and she is very creative. Additionally, this book in particular dealt with a serious issue--alcoholism--in a very respectful and meaningful way.
Even though I didn't like this book very much, I will be reading more from this author.
That being said some things that I did like was Gordon's writing style, it's very calming, and she is very creative. Additionally, this book in particular dealt with a serious issue--alcoholism--in a very respectful and meaningful way.
Even though I didn't like this book very much, I will be reading more from this author.
August 16, 2016
This is by far my favorite book from Ms. Gordon.
Tessa Hamilton values her friendship with Josh Donnelly. Y'all the easy camaraderie and jokes that go on between these two are enough to induce grins and that hope they'll get together.
But Tessa has a past and Josh has made his opinions known, without realizing he's throwing barbs at his best friend.
Great, great, great read. It's amazing how we let preconceived notions hinder us from happiness. It's what Josh does throughout the novel until he has his light bulb moment. I liked watching them navigate the waters beyond friendship and overcoming their fears.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Tessa Hamilton values her friendship with Josh Donnelly. Y'all the easy camaraderie and jokes that go on between these two are enough to induce grins and that hope they'll get together.
But Tessa has a past and Josh has made his opinions known, without realizing he's throwing barbs at his best friend.
Great, great, great read. It's amazing how we let preconceived notions hinder us from happiness. It's what Josh does throughout the novel until he has his light bulb moment. I liked watching them navigate the waters beyond friendship and overcoming their fears.
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2016
What a truly amazing story!
Tessa Hamilton has been best friends with Josh Donnelly since they were kids. So what is she to do when she finds her feelings for him changing?
And she’s hiding a secret — a big secret. One that could ruin everything!
Warning: read this story with a box of tissues nearby. If you’re anything like me, you’ll laugh — and cry — throughout the book. I’m not going to reveal any spoilers, but it touches on subjects that have affected most of us at some time in our lives . . . with respect and dignity.
Jean C. Gordon has written the perfect love story! I love it so much, even though I have a digital copy—I’m going to buy the paperback!
Happy Reading!
August 8, 2016
This book in the series shows alcoholism from both sides- it's done in a way that is honest and forthright. It shows two proud, stubborn people that are on each side of that fence. Will that stubbornness and Josh's pride keep him and Tessa from ever getting together? Anyone that has dealt with alcoholism in any form will see themselves here, beyond that- it a fun love story. I love this series and hope there are many more to come! I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.
Read
August 6, 2016"The secondary characters are well integrated, and the author does a respectable job of demonstrating the impact that alcoholism can have on one’s family and friends. The struggle of learning to give up control is one which will be relatable for many" (4 stars @ RT Book Reviews).
Miniseries: The Donnelly Brothers
Miniseries: The Donnelly Brothers
October 21, 2016
The Bachelor's Sweetheart by Jean C. Gordon. This was a good story line. Josh Donnelly has to deal with his alcoholic dad moving back to town. Also he finds out his girlfriend use to be an alcoholic. This is a lot for a person to deal with and be able to forgive and know that things can be okay and forgiven.
Read
July 31, 2016received 4 stars @ RT Book Reviews
Miniseries: The Donnelly Brothers
Miniseries: The Donnelly Brothers
Read
October 21, 2016Very good
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews