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Cedar Valley #1

All She Ever Wanted

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The last time she saw Jake was the day he broke her heart. She wasn’t about to make the same mistake twice.

Twenty-eight-year-old Leah Adams is content with her life. Living with her best friend in the big city and working as a receptionist at the doctor’s office, she doesn’t allow herself much time to think about falling in love and starting a family.
Until the night her ten-year high school reunion not only brings her to Levy’s, but face-to-face with Jake. Leah is faced with feelings she cannot ignore. She has to make a decision that is in her best interest – no matter who gets hurt.
She’ll have to decide if risking another heartbreak is worth it for all she’s ever wanted.

326 pages, Paperback

First published December 26, 2016

97 people are currently reading
222 people want to read

About the author

Christina Butrum

89 books264 followers

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5 stars
99 (47%)
4 stars
61 (29%)
3 stars
33 (15%)
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10 (4%)
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7 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
Profile Image for Candyce Kirk.
1,353 reviews52 followers
August 20, 2017
4.5 stars

Wow, I flew through this book!
Normally I don't really like it when characters fall in love so fast, but for so,e reason this didn't bother me when it came to Leah and Liam.
Leah, is a strong independent woman that has been through a lot in her life. There has been a lot of heartbreak and she doesn't let new people in easier. When her best friend Rachel wants Leah to go to their high school reunion she is a bit hesitant. What if Jake is there? The guy that broke her heart. When she meets the bartender, Liam, her world changes a bit. The chemistry between them is there from the start.

Liam is the owner of the bar the high school reunion is held at and feels an instant connection to Leah. He is very caring and you can tell he's not a typical guy. Like Leah, Liam has had a hard life and is definitely a family man. The business he owns with his grandfather is his everything until Leah comes along.

I love the setting of this book and would definitely want the view Leah describes. This book shows us that love and family are an important part of your life and that you sometime need to take risks. I love Liam's grandfather Wes and their maid Rosie. One can only wish to be like them when we get older. Besides them I love Leah's best friend Rachel. She seems really confident and pushes Leah when she thinks she is in her head too much. I saw that book two of this series is about Rachel, which I need to read, because I want to see her get her happily ever after.

Leah and Liam experience many obstacles along the way that only makes them stronger. Liam is definitely book boyfriend material with a lot of swoon factor.

This book didn't get 5 stars, because for me it went a little fast at times. Especially the gaps of time near the end. It seemed a bit rushed for me. And at times the story was told through Liam's POV, but this was confusing at times. It is definitely still a book I would recommend everyone that is a fan of sweet love stories.
Profile Image for ⚜️XAR the Bookwyrm.
2,343 reviews17 followers
September 26, 2017
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE AUTHOR THROUGH A FACEBOOK GIVEAWAY. I ALSO PURCHASED A COPY FROM AMAZON FOR THE KINDLE. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THESE MANNERS DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!

I'd never heard of this author before, but when I saw the blurb on it on Amazon, I was intrigued enough to give it a read. Then, this book turned out to be one given away by the Blind Date with a Review Facebook Group, so I really felt compelled to read it! Overall, it was a good book, but it could have been so much better!

For me, it felt like a lot was happening with this book, so much so that it really bogged down the plot! I had no trouble connecting with the characters, but I really felt like events were getting glossed over for the sake of time. Cutting back some of the items focused on could have really helped this! There's also a lack of back story on many of the characters which makes it harder to identify and connect with them.

The romance moved at a slow burn, and I was really rooting for Leah and Liam, but timeline wise, Liam was moving a little fast too. Some of the events in the story facilitated this, but it still was a bit much for me to realistically believe in.

All things considered, I'm interested enough to read the next book in the series, which I already purchased, but I definitely hope things improve!
Profile Image for ѕнelley.
223 reviews31 followers
January 4, 2017
Entertaining Read with the potential to be better

You're probably thinking that I HATED this novel and you'd be WRONG. Its my frustration that's coming through; I can see so much potential in this novel especially as its the start of a new series. It has ALL the key ingredients to make it an outstanding read. My personal opinion is that there was way too much going on. Strip it back to basics and it would have been a 5 star read.

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I’ve scored it..

Score: 3/5
I LIKED IT!

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THANKS TO CHRISTINA BUTRUM

*RECEIVED AN ADVANCE READER COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR A FAIR REVIEW*

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Profile Image for Terri.
2,368 reviews52 followers
May 3, 2017
This book was about a woman trying to let go of her past so that she could embrace her future. Leah is still hung up on her ex. He dumped her ten years ago and she's till hung up on him when she seems him at her class reunion. Also at her class reunion is a super sweet guy, Liam, who is the bartender who is determined to protect her and take care of the very drunk Leah.
Liam pursues Leah and continues to take care of her in so many sweet ways. I loved Liam! Liam is a country guy and although Leah lives in the city now, she is a country girl at heart. His life fits in exactly with what she wants out of life and Liam is determined to give it to her, if only her ex would get out of the way!
This book was strong on family and friendship as well as romantic love. There were lots of problems for the character that needed to be resolved. They sure kept the book moving along and me turning the pages. I loved how Leah was able to help Liam with his problems as well. As a medical person, I also appreciated the medical issues with the characters. Ms. Butrum did a great job with that side of the story also. All She Ever Wanted was a very good book!
Profile Image for Pamela Humphrey.
Author 14 books118 followers
Read
June 9, 2021
I enjoyed this book. The author's style is easy to read. There is good chemistry between her main characters.

In parts of the story, how much time had elapsed wasn't clear. Some references made me think a few months had passed, only to read pages later that it was only one month.

Without giving any spoilers... I had some issue with the plausibility. The main character's activities after getting home from the hospital (after surgery) stretched believability for me.

Overall, I did like the characters and would try another book by this author.

I received the book from the author and chose to write an honest review.
383 reviews18 followers
July 21, 2017
This was a 2.5-3 star read for me maximum. overall it could have been a good story as I liked the idea. Leigh goes reluctantly to her 10 year high school reunion, sees her ex who she hasn't seen for 5 years (but was with for 10 years) but gets looked after by the barman when she gets rip roaring drunk. Said barman has fallen for her and realises he has found the woman he wants. Leigh has no idea what she wants. unfortunately I didn't get any emotional connection with the characters as there is not enough information on any of them, characters who you could potentially fall in love with such as Rosie are thrown in almost as extras. Too much happened too soon and I don't mean in an insta-love way, just too much going on. Also I got confused in many parts with the timeline, the length of time between events isn't made very clear.. a lot seems to happen e.g. Liam hasn't slept since it happened to me indicated days then it had only been one night. Wes hadn't left Rosie' s side at all yet she was in hospital I guess for about a month? I have no idea. But I'm assuming so as it was going to be a long road to recovery yet it seemed liked days when she came home. There seemed to be a lot missing from story by putting too much in. Seemed to be inconsistencies in relation to Leigh's character too, she was made out to be not very clever, but then could do book keeping, marketing, and all other business planning. Mr and Mrs Williams came out of nowhere and were way too generous for the little we knew about them. Leigh hardly knew of Cedar Valley before the reinion, yet everyone in the massove city where Leigh lived heard of Leigh's activities over there and knew of Liam. The story around Jake seemed odd..he'd not been in touch for 5 years but suddenly declares his undying love and goes psycho. Also needs work on editing. I struggled to finish but I persevered, however unfortunately because of this it wouldn't pick up more of this author's work, which is a shame as with a little development it could be good. arc received for honest review.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
2,097 reviews22 followers
July 1, 2018
There is nothing like loving someone so much you can’t forget them, they are there in your mind every day of your life and you can’t let go, than you run into them face to face after so many years, the feelings are still there at least for you. That is what happens to Leah ten years later when she goes home for her school reunion. She cannot get over her ex, she can’t move on and start a new life, make a family of her own until Leah can let go of the past. Now she must make choices and rethink how she feels and what she wants out of life. She isn’t sure she wants to jump the bridge it hurt so much last time, love isn’t something she has won at.

The story has a great plot with wonderful characters, at times it moves a little fast and other times the fit is just right. I think at some point all of us has cross the bridge to a point, so it was easy to relate to this story at least for me. I really loved the characters, Rachel is someone I would love to have in my life, as BFF she is the best. Liam's grandfather stole my heart he is just a wonderful character.Liam is a dream and if Leah doesn't take him I will....
Liam and Leah are meant to be and it shows in the thought given to this story. They are prefect and makes us believe true love is out there for everyone, just sometimes it might take a little while. The author gives a wonderful message with a plot you get lost in. I wish a little more detail was given in some areas but I really did enjoy what I have read and can’t wait to read more of this series.
*********************
Profile Image for Sara ✨ Next Book Review Blog ✨.
2,120 reviews5 followers
December 28, 2016
Christina Butrum is a new-to-me author. After this book, I’m going to have to check out her others. There’s just such a great flow to this book. You don’t want to put it down or it to end. I finished it in less than 24 hours. Once I was in, I didn’t want to do anything else! The characters don’t feel like characters, they feel like real people that could be your friends or even your life. I think what I enjoyed the most from this book is that it felt real. It wasn’t some outlandish story that left you scratching your head wondering how the hell that happened.

Leah is so completely relatable! I just love her! She is someone you find yourself just instantly liking. I can see myself in her. I feel her apprehension on going to that 10 year high school reunion. I can remember not wanting to go to mine too… but I didn’t since it was 16 hours away. Leah’s reunion was one for the books though!

I fell for Liam quickly. He was just so sweet from the start. I mean… don’t they sound perfect for each other? Liam and Leah <3 Total sweetness!! I was totally routing for Liam throughout this book. Plus Rachel is just the bestest of friends! She always told Leah how it was and was just a true best friend! I hope we get more from her too!!

I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I will leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Profile Image for Aglipay.
2 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2017
So Christina is a new author for me and I never thought I would loved her book. High school love is not my kind of thing but she gave it justice. What I really like about the book is that she makes it closes to reality which makes the characters seems alive! She gave great descriptions to the characters that allow me to have a vivid visuals on what the characters look liked. The book is full of angst I must say. This makes me questions my sanity while reading it. A part of it makes me angry, then it would give me a happy feel then it would turn out into an ugly cry! (Crazy, I know! I blamed it to the author lol) She really did a great job bringing out all the emotions. Liam and Leah's chemistry is just extraordinary. I have grown to love the couple and then there's Jake- what can I say about him is that he makes me angry with him! But all in all, Christina really did extraordinary for a new author like her and I can see more potential from this book.
Profile Image for Tabitha Willbanks.
514 reviews30 followers
July 23, 2017
*ARC Provided For An Honest Review*
2.75 stars rounded up...

Let me start off by saying this book had so much potential. The premise was such a good idea, but sadly it fell short for me.
First of all, there was just so much going on. I felt like I was getting whiplash reading. It was as if the author was trying to add drama just for the sake of adding drama. I got the impression of an author trying to add situational upheaval just for the sake of dramatic effect. It never really added anything to the story, and nothing was ever resolved. Any sort of resolution was just glanced over, and onto the next problem.
I also never felt conected to the characters. Their romance just didn't reach me. It was an instalove story, which normally doesn't bother me, but I didn't feel the passion between Liam and Leah. There was no bulid up. One minuite they're on a date as "friends" then next she's scared because she thinks she's falling in love. It just wasn't plausible. There were so many different situations the author could have focused on, added more detail, and used that to go forward with the love story. I think with some re-editing, and some major plothole fillers, this book could be really good, but as it is right now, I was sadly disappointed.
Profile Image for Brittany Hively.
407 reviews11 followers
December 29, 2016

I'm not going to lie, at first I thought this was a super generic love at first sight, riding off into the sunset story. I was reading and thinking, "how am I gonna review this and be nice about it being so generic?" Well, I suppose that;s why they always say that first impressions aren't everything because I truly got sucked into this story and didn't even put it down, but once!
This story was full of angst! Every time I thought the surprises were over, BAM! Burtum threw in another one. I mean I really didn't think the characters were going to all make it out alive! I was semi-panicked for a majority of the story because I had no idea what was going to happen. But that's how books should always be! Leaving you wanting so much more that you can't put them down! This book does that!
I am new to Christina's work, but am anxious to read some of her other stories and see her progress as an author! :)
Profile Image for Stephanie (Between the Coverz).
578 reviews6 followers
February 5, 2017
The author did a good job of bringing the emotions of the characters to light. You get a sense that you are there with them – like you are their family or friend. You go through the conflicting emotions with Leah when faced with what her heart really is telling her versus what she thinks her heart wants. The author did a good job of spinning the conflict in the story that you can relate to.

There were times in the book I seemed to get bogged down; I wasn’t sure if I would be able to finish or not – not really sure why. It was interesting and had a good story line. I think there is a lot of potential for more growth in the writing however overall this was a good read.

This was my first book that I have read by Christina Butrum. I recommend Christina Butrum to anyone that is looking for a good sweet read.
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews37 followers
December 27, 2016
This is the first book I have read from this author and I am now a fan. The way the emotion bleed from this story was just amazing. Leah is broken and hasn't really prepared herself to date again when she meets Liam the gentle bartender. She has a few distractions and trust issue to work thru before she can open up to him. But while indecision is her enemy Liam is firmly grounded and knows what he wants. When secret conversations help Liam to over to Leah a way to have all her deepest desires laid out before her it's just a matter of time. OH but there are a few other things that are going on as well.

This author does a great job of keeping the story flowing while adding enough sub plots for it to not be too overwhelming. The characters are wonderful and so is the story. Great story and yes I will be seeking out more from her.
Profile Image for Christina.
365 reviews
February 7, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I had never read this author previously, but this book is amazing.
It is very well written and well detailed. The character descriptions are beyond amazing.
Levy is a bar owner in a small town and takes an immediate shining to our leading lady Leah. With the detail written into Levy it allows each reader to then assemble their own visual of Levy. This is talent by an author.
Leah is our leading lady who attends her high school reunion at a bar in a small town. Leah has been burned before and is very cautious when it comes to Levy she's trying to guard her heart. Again the character description is so detailed we again get to assemble our own visual of Leah.
This book was honestly a great read from start to finish. I would recommend it to a friend!
Profile Image for Abigail.
37 reviews1 follower
January 17, 2017
Where do I start with this book I was sent an email by Christina to review for her and I am so glad I decided to review for her. I had a hard time putting this down and with even being sick I just couldn't get enough I just wanted to keep reading. I know after this story I will be going back and checking out her other work. Thank you Christina for the email and opportunity to review this book for you.

I absolutely fell in love with her characters. Leah reminds me so much of myself afraid of giving away her heart to have another potential heartbreak. But, all in all I loved reading how Liam broke her down and kept repeatedly showing her that he was falling for her and eventually falling in love with her.
Profile Image for Megan Murphy.
85 reviews1 follower
December 29, 2016
This is a new author for me, but I'm happy to add her to my list of one-click authors. I will be reading more of her books. I hesitate to call this an easy or light read because I cried with, yelled at, and prayed for the characters - especially Leah. Didn't really like her at first because she was a little too close to real life. That is what makes this book great - the plot, characters, and pacing is like real life. If some of the characters don't have their own books soon, I am going to start a petition! I was given an ARC for an honest review, but I liked the book so much and like to support those that should continue writing, I bought a copy. Go get yours, you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Lana.
260 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2017
Amazing book! I absolutely loved watching Leah grow throughout the story!
Christina Butrum has done a outstanding job with the characters within this story, Liam and Leah have magic chemistry that is felt immediately and made me want them definitely together.
Then there is Jake, well let's just say that I didn't think he was a very nice person sometimes....
This story has everything you want and need in a book that you will read more than once, angst, love, and surprises that you will never see coming!
Although this is my first book by the talented new author Christina Butrum, it surely will not be my last!
I cannot wait to read more from her!!
Profile Image for Angie.
603 reviews7 followers
July 9, 2018
An event filled book. The blurb for this one caught me eye. I couldn’t wait to start it. Diving right in, I fell in love with the characters. Well most of them, except for Jake.
This book follows the crazy ups and downs of a single woman trying to overcome her past relationship. Leah is a strong willed woman who has lost a lot in her life. Things start to change for the better after attending a reunion with her best friend, Rachael.
Soon enough she trying not to fall for the super hot, country boy, Liam.
Some intense twists and turns follow them in their journey to try and find happiness together.
Fun characters. Interesting storyline and some crazy happenings.
4/5
Profile Image for Katie Jones.
187 reviews4 followers
December 27, 2016
OH MY GOSH! Christina outdid herself on this book. She makes you feel like you are in the story with how easily you love the characters and how she details the town they're in. Wes and Rosie have the love story that everyone wants. Leah and Liam were such a beautiful couple. And Rachel was the best friend that you could ever ask for. My heart broke for her with Scott and what she was dealing with but everything ended up for the best for everyone. I think anyone who is everyone should read this. If you like HEA and good tears, this book is definitely for you.
Profile Image for Edna Staples.
102 reviews3 followers
December 28, 2016
This is the first book that I have read from this author, this book flows really good. Its a very emotional read. Its good to see that they are able to keep their high school friends close and still friends. Most high school students when they grow up they try to distance themselves from their old classmates. This book for sure is very emotional read, it seems that one minute its like a complete up then it moves into a middle and right down when Rosie had a stroke and most stroke victims do not make it or need along physical therapy to re-learn how to do things again.
Profile Image for Crystal Gray.
1,088 reviews33 followers
February 3, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. The amount of emotion in it, wow. Christina kept you on the edge of your seat through most of the book, as soon as you thought you knew what would happen, she changed it up! Rachel was a great best friend, it's amazing to have family who isn't blood. The ones who choose you :-) I loved pretty much everything about this book! Keep up the great work Christina! I can't wait to read more of your books.
Profile Image for Heather Swan.
206 reviews14 followers
December 27, 2016
This was an amazing book. I loved seeing Leah's growth throughout. The heart leads where it wants you to go. This was the first book I have read from this author. I love feeling as though I am a part of the books I read, and this story definitely mad me feel that way. I felt their emotions and worries. I cannot wait to read more books from Christina!!
Profile Image for Paula Genereau.
3,077 reviews39 followers
December 27, 2016
This book deserves so many more stars than 5. It was amazing. Leah and Liam are my favorite book couple Leah going to her 10 year high school reunion (which she didn't wanna go to) met a sexy bartender named Liam. From there their relationship grew. Things happen to try to ruin their love but they never let it. This book had me crying for good reasons. Loved it
Profile Image for Kellyann.
351 reviews12 followers
January 16, 2017
I loved this book. The characters are so much fun. Sometimes life is full.of surprises and we think we know what we want, but is it really what we want. This book takes you on a journey of the life of a girl who thinks she's finally found happiness after a bad break with her long time boyfriend but quickly realizes that she us worth so much more.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
3,201 reviews101 followers
February 2, 2019
Happy Again

Leah didn't want to go to the reunion, but her best friend Rachel wouldn't let her stay home. Liam was the co-owner/bartender at Levy's where the reunion is being held. Something about Leah intrigues Liam and wants to take her out. The start of as friends because she is scared. But a lot changes and she wants the small town life.
Profile Image for Norma.
350 reviews
February 14, 2019
Wonderful

If I could give this more stars, I would. The story of Leah & Liam was everything you could want. So true to life, from their fears, heartaches, past & future lives together. Very well written. The story drew you in. Can't wait to read the rest the series & the other books Christina. So glad I found this Author and her books!
1,393 reviews15 followers
April 9, 2019
Spectacular read

You may need tissues for reading this book. She goes to her high school reunion at a bar and she meets him n he is awesome n a great bartender. She sees her ex and he is being a butt. Her and the bartender keeps on talking and their relationship grows and it's awesome. I enjoyed reading this book
5 reviews
December 28, 2016
Was pulled into this book from the moment I started reading and couldn't put it down. I could visually see where the story was taking place because of the writing. I could feel what the characters were feeling. All around great book!
Profile Image for Rachael Bromley.
1,664 reviews16 followers
January 14, 2019
A new author to me and I did like the book. It was sweet and sad but romantic at the same time. About a woman who is in two minds when she is reunited with the man who broke her heart. Will love win out? Or will she carry on knowing she will be alone forever?
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