Can't Take My Eyes Off of You

Summer Lake #2

by Bella Riley, Bella Andre

Sullivan fans met Christie Hayden at Summer Lake in "Now That I've Found You", “Since I Fell For You” and “The Best Is Yet To Come”. Now get ready for Christie’s beautiful love story in CAN’T TAKE MY EYES OFF OF YOU.

BOOK Christie Hayden escaped to Summer Lake to heal from heartbreak, but found so much more than a job she loves as an innkeeper, a close-knit community of friends, and a chance at the perfect romantic future she’s always longed for. But nothing is as it seems, especially when it comes to Liam Kane, the gorgeous millionaire who sweeps into her life from out of the blue…and instantly turns it—and her heart—upside down.

The first time Liam Kane lays eyes on Christie, he’s a total goner. He knows he should keep his distance, because he’s not capable of giving her the happily-ever-after she’s looking for. But when it comes to her smiles, her laughter, her kindness—and her sweetly sinful kisses—for the first time in his life, he can’t hang on to his self-control. Not when the love she offers him is everything he never thought he could have, but now craves with every fiber of his being.

But Liam has been keeping a secret for twenty years, one that nearly destroyed him—one that has the potential to tear his whole family apart too. When Christie can’t stop herself from trying to help out of pure love, will Liam be able to let himself heal? Or will they both end up broken, leaving her to pick up the pieces all over again?

NOTE FOR “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You” was previously published as “With This Kiss” under a pen name. This new edition has been extensively revised and rewritten.

"Not since Nora Roberts has anyone been able to write a big family romance series with every book as good as the last. Bella Andre never disappoints." ~ Revolving Bookcase Reviews

"The New York Sullivans are every bit as fantastic as their cousins." ~ Deanna on Goodreads

SAN FRANCISCO
The Look of Love
From This Moment On
Can't HelpFalling In Love
I Only Have Eyes For You
If You Were Mine
Let Me Be The One
Come A Little Bit Closer
Always On My Mind
Kissing Under The Mistletoe

SEATTLE
One Perfect Night
The Way You Look Tonight
It Must Be Your Love
Just To Be With You
I Love How You Love Me
All I Ever Need Is You

NEW YORK
Every Beat Of My Heart
Now That I've Found You
Since I Fell For You
Sweeter Than Ever
The Best Is Yet To Come
Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You
More New York & Maine Sullivans are coming soon!

THE MAVERICK
Breathless In Love
Reckless In Love
Fearless In Love
Irresistible In Love
More Maverick Billionaires are coming soon!

THE
Kiss Me Like This
Tempt Me Like This
Love Me Like This

ABOUT THE
Bella Andre's New York Times and USA Today bestselling novels have been #1 bestsellers around the world and she has sold more than 6 million books so far! Known for "sensual, empowered stories enveloped in heady romance" (Publishers Weekly), her books have been Cosmopolitan Magazine "Red Hot Reads" twice and have been translated into ten languages. She also writes "sweet" contemporary romances as Lucy Kevin. There are more than 50,000 5 star reviews for Bella Andre's books on Goodreads!

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Family, Audiobook, Ebooks, Small Town Romance

364 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

Bella lives with her fabulous husband and children in both Northern California and a ninety-year-old lakefront log cabin in New York's Adirondacks.

Pseudonyms:
Bella Andre
Lucy Kevin
Candace Paige

Reviews

[Bella Andre]

I can't wait for everyone to read Christie & Liam's love story at Summer Lake on July 12th! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Bella

Amazon Kindle ~ http://bellaandre.com/CTMEOOY_Kindle
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Google ~ http://bellaandre.com/CTMEOOY_GooglePlay
Amazon Australia ~ http://bellaandre.com/CTMEOOY_AmazonAU
Amazon Canada ~ http://bellaandre.com/CTMEOOY_AmazonCA
Amazon UK ~ http://bellaandre.com/CTMEOOY_AmazonUK
Paperback (shipped from Amazon) ~ http://bellaandre.com/CTMEOOY_Paperback
Audiobook ~ Coming soon!

[Annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

CAN’T TAKE MY EYES OFF OF YOU is the second book in the Summer Lake series by Bella Andre. You don’t need to have read the previous book in the series to enjoy this one, but the heroine, Christie Hayden, has been mentioned in three previous Bella Andre books in the past. Also, this is something important to note: This book was previously published as “With This Kiss” under different pen name. This new edition has been extensively revised and rewritten.

Christie is quite the reserved heroine. She doesn’t draw too much attention to herself, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t get noticed by men. When her wedding is called off because her best friend and fiancé decided that they would rather remain as friends than be married, Christie is experiencing a whole slew of emotions when he suddenly disappears without really telling anyone about where he is going. Liam Kane, his brother, suddenly shows up at the inn expecting a wedding, but he soon learns that there will no longer be one.

I found that both Liam and Christie were very subdued characters. Andre’s books are usually very laid back, but this one definitely felt more chill. Not much happens in terms of plot and actually the conflict is really simple. I went back and forth with liking Liam. I found that the moments when he showed emotion to be good, but there were so many pages of him being unaffected by anything. I was hoping for a little more passion between the main couple. The story just never really took off for me.

I felt like this book was a bit of a departure from Andre’s usual style. It’s not as sexy, focusing more on being sweet. I don’t mind sweet, but I was hoping for more in terms of plot. Also, I noticed that the author tries to make up for the lack of conflict by creating other side stories in addition to the romance. While I think this was a good idea, I don’t know that it was executed well. Some of the scene changes felt very abrupt and the flashback scenes to 1945 seemed out of the blue. I also thought they were too short to make a lasting impact on the reader, so I don’t think this is one of my favorite books from this author. Nevertheless, I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

[Syndi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is different than other Miss Andre's books. Especially the New York Sullivan or the San Fransisco Sullivan. This one have a tiny bit of paranormal aspect. Not major paranormal. Just a tiny bit of paranormal.

The story is focusing on 3 generation of women. Jean, Christie and Susan. Focusing on how they gone through their life differently.

I like this book OK. I can not really connect with the 3 women. They confusing and the suspense seems force and does not fit into this book. Liam is brooding. I wish he can be more dramatic.
I wish Miss Bella can writes more deep and more dramatic story.

3 stars

[Brenda Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why is it that Bella - always makes me cry when I'm reading her stories. You will love this Story of Liam and Christie. Yes everyone has secrets, but secrets can destroy a relationship if you are not honest with each from the beginning. Must read thank you, Bella, for sharing this heart warming emotional story with us.

[Tpagirl Loves Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You was the second book in Bella Andre’s newest series, Summer Lake.

Christie Hayden was the beautiful, sweet, devoted, strong, resilient innkeeper in Summer Lake, the small town nestled in the Adirondack Mountains. She had come to Summer Lake to escape heartbreak and a life full of choosing the wrong men. Fast forward a year, her engagement had just ended with a shroud of mystery and secrets.

Liam Kane was the gorgeous and successful entrepreneur. He spent more time in hotels throughout the world than he did anywhere else. He grew up in Summer Lake but kept his distance. He returned for his brother’s wedding only to find out he missed messages about its cancellation.

Sparks flew the moment Christie and Liam met. They both fought the chemistry for obvious reasons but their paths continued to cross daily. Andre took us through the relationship development while also building upon multiple stories surrounding small town politic challenges and long time family secrets.

Additionally, as with the first book of the series, there was a story within the story. This time, it was Liam’s grandmother who shared her story, from over sixty years ago, interspersed throughout the book.

Can’t Take My Eyes Off You was a sweet story mixed in with pain, heartbreak, healing, forgiveness, and learning to trust and love fully. It was well written and well developed. I’m not sure where Andre will take us next in the series, but she’s set the stage for another adventure with the promise of hope and forever love.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Once again Bella Andre gave us a beautiful love story. I know that I start off all my reviews from her with that, but, it’s true. She is an amazing author that truly knows how to show us what love is all about while telling a beautiful story.

Summer Lake is starting to be one of my most favorite places to visit. The people are warm, fun and interesting, the place is beautiful and now, it want to go to the Inn, see the gazebo, look out over the lake and just fall madly in love. Christie and Liam’s story just made it even more special to me.

Opposites … the one word that describes Liam and Christie. One holds a secret better than anyone ever could and the other who has a secret that is tearing her apart. Christie is open, loving, caring and empathic. She wears her heart on her sleeve and its killing her knowing the truth about Wesley and not being able to share it with his family. They blame her for everything but she is not going to let that stop her from running the inn, going to knitting group, planning the festival and living her life. Until Liam shows up, unexpectedly, and throws her life into a tailspin.

Liam has held a secret since he was 14 years old. He doesn’t trust anyone and will not allow any woman to think that he could give her what she dreams of – forever. He doesn’t believe in forever and make sure that Christie knows that. He also cannot stay away from her shining eyes and her beautiful heart. He knows he is falling in love and finally found someone to be honest with, share his secret with, until she betrays his trust and throws his life into a tailspin.

I loved Grandma Jean. She was such an excentric, beautiful and caring woman. She saw the light in Christie from the first moment she saw her. She didn’t hold her responsible for Wesley but took her under her wing and treated her like one of the family. Henry was the kind of man that you should have as a father. He was loyal, loving and always supportive. Susan needs a lesson in love and in parenting. Enough said about her.

I adored Christie and Liam’s story. It was a story about trust, friendship and love. I love how Bella Andre builds her characters, gets you to understand them and feel their pain, their love … comprehend their mistakes and root for them to correct them. I love how she always gets me to root for the underdog and rejoice when it all turns out the way it is supposed to. But, most of all, I love how she shows the romantic side as well as the lustful side, how she brings her characters together and makes sure that they stay together. I’ll always read Bella Andre knowing that it will be romantic, sexy, have characters that I could relate to and will always, always, always have a happily-ever-after.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

[Quinn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve been a Bella Andre fan for a while. Her books are always like comfort food for me, and quite frankly, I can never get enough. I went into Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You by Bella Andre expecting to really enjoy it. Instead I ended up having some big issues with this one.

Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You is a Sullivan series spin-off, set in Summer Lake, NY in the Adirondacks. The heroine is Christie Hayden, whose fiancé, after letting people know they called off the wedding, immediately ran off. That left everything on Christie’s shoulders, and it hasn’t been easy for her. So when her fiancé’s brother, who she’s never met, shows up on the day of their original wedding, it falls on Christie to tell him the news. Of course, Christie and the brother, Liam fall for each other.

Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You had some of my least favorite tropes and themes. First, there are multiple storylines/romances. There is the main romance between Christie and Liam, the issues that Liam’s parents are going through, and the story of Liam’s grandmother’s husband. You guys, I hate this. I almost never like a secondary romance, and you can imagine I like three even less.

Let’s talk about the secondary story lines first (and briefly). Liam’s parents’ story line was seriously depressing, and quite frankly not something I really liked to see in a feel-good romance. Liam’s grandmother’s story was also depressing, and I absolutely hated the flashback chapters to when she was a young woman. I would have been so much happier if both these story lines were not in this book at all.

As for the main romance, I had issues with that too. So, Christie was a character that I mostly liked. I liked how Bella Andre handled the break-up between Christie and her fiancé. It was handled well, and nothing was melodramatic. And I felt bad that Christie’s ex-fiancé did leave Summer Lake suddenly (although it was very understandable).

I was nervous that I would struggle with the romance because Christie gets together with her ex-fiancé’s brother, but that didn’t bother me as much as I was expecting (although I would have been happier if they weren’t related). Liam is a nice guy, who’s definitely got some secrets that he has been struggling with for years. I liked Liam and Christie together, for the most part. They definitely made a good couple.

However, I had such an issue with something Christie did, that it completely affected how I liked the rest of the book. Warning: rant ahead. Liam tells Christie this huge secret that he’s been holding in for years. This secret has clearly affected (not for the better) Liam. And Christie gets so incredibly angry at someone in Liam’s life. All that’s understandable, because Christie love Liam, and doesn’t want to see him hurting. Liam specifically asks Christie not to tell anyone, especially the person that asked Liam to keep this secret in the first place. But Christie is so mad at this person that she confronts this person about it. And here’s my problem. That is not her place! She is there to support Liam and even encourage Liam to talk with that someone, but she should not directly talk to that someone, no matter how angry she is. It’s not about her, it’s about Liam, and HE needs to make that decision when he is ready. I'm not sure why Christie (or Bella Andre) thought that this was a romantic and understandable reaction, but to me, it just left me furious. It would have been one thing if Liam was a child, but he's an adult, and he has every right to make whatever decision he wants to. And, quite frankly, if Christie truly loved him, she would respect his decision.

Okay, I'm going to stop ranting. As you can see, Can't Take My Eyes Off of You by Bella Andre was not for me. Not only was it full of tropes I don't care for, the multiple storylines were often kind of depressing. I will read more Bella Andre, but this book was a miss for me.This review was originally posted on Quinn's Book Nook

[Quinn · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Stars. I'm a huge Bella Andre fan. I've read nearly all her books. But this one just did not work for me. I didn't like that there were three stories going on (Christie & Liam, Susan and Henry, and Jean's Story), and the conflict was just . . . I had some real issues with it.

I didn't like that Christie thought it was the right thing to do to confront Susan about the secrets she made Liam hide. It was not her place. She should have encouraged Liam to talk to his mother, but to force his hand was not okay.

I also just hated that a large part of the story focused on Susan and Henry's marriage problems. It was depressing, didn't end happily and brought the whole romance down. It made the whole book depressing.

Full review soon.

[Under the Covers Book Blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

CAN’T TAKE MY EYES OFF OF YOU is the second book in the Summer Lake series by Bella Andre. You don’t need to have read the previous book in the series to enjoy this one, but the heroine, Christie Hayden, has been mentioned in three previous Bella Andre books in the past. Also, this is something important to note: This book was previously published as “With This Kiss” under different pen name. This new edition has been extensively revised and rewritten.  

Christie is quite the reserved heroine. She doesn’t draw too much attention to herself, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t get noticed by men. When her wedding is called off because her best friend and fiancé decided that they would rather remain as friends than be married, Christie is experiencing a whole slew of emotions when he suddenly disappears without really telling anyone about where he is going. Liam Kane, his brother, suddenly shows up at the inn expecting a wedding, but he soon learns that there will no longer be one.

I found that both Liam and Christie were very subdued characters. Andre’s books are usually very laid back, but this one definitely felt more chill. Not much happens in terms of plot and actually the conflict is really simple. I went back and forth with liking Liam. I found that the moments when he showed emotion to be good, but there were so many pages of him being unaffected by anything. I was hoping for a little more passion between the main couple. The story just never really took off for me.

I felt like this book was a bit of a departure from Andre’s usual style. It’s not as sexy, focusing more on being sweet. I don’t mind sweet, but I was hoping for more in terms of plot. Also, I noticed that the author tries to make up for the lack of conflict by creating other side stories in addition to the romance. While I think this was a good idea, I don’t know that it was executed well. Some of the scene changes felt very abrupt and the flashback scenes to 1945 seemed out of the blue. I also thought they were too short to make a lasting impact on the reader, so I don’t think this is one of my favorite books from this author. Nevertheless, I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

*ARC provided by author
Reviewed by Annie❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤

[Maida · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded high. I received an ARC for this, but I was participating in Camp NaNo that I neglected it terribly. It was hard for me to rate this book because as much as I enjoyed several aspects of the story- the growth of characters, friendships, family, small-town community, and the development of the romance between Christie and Liam, I also did not appreciate a few - too many POVs (5), the constant keeping and breaking of secrets and promises (which is the central theme of the book), and secondary characters playing too big a role in the book. I finally decided on the four stars because in the end, the situations Bella wrote here are realistic and the resolution plausible.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Posted on Under the Covers


Rebecca Campbell, the innkeeper at Emerald Lake has always dreamed of finding everlasting love. When she sees how deeply her friend, Andi has fallen for her soon-to-be husband, Nate, she realizes that the love between her fiancé, Stu isn’t like that at all.

Upon this realization, she finds Stu to tell him how she feels. However, Stu has some words of his own that he wants to share. It turns out that Stu doesn’t want to get married anymore. He has found someone new and when you read this book, you’ll realize that this isn’t necessarily an asshole move. It was clear from the beginning that Stu and Rebecca got along well. They laughed, shared many memories together, but that didn’t translate to sparks that lit up their worlds.

When Stu asks Rebecca to keep his secret while he tries to figure out where his life will take him now, Rebecca shows her love for Stu by promising to keep their inn running even though they won’t be getting married anymore.

It is then that Sean Murphy, Stu’s brother comes along, hoping to attend his brother’s wedding. When he learns it’s been called off, he becomes very suspicious of Rebecca.

WITH THIS KISS is a sweet romance that has the ability to lift spirits and make you fall in love. It was really easy for me to enjoy this book because Rebecca is such an admirable character. She was strong when she needed to be, sure of herself even in the most confusing of times, and loving as she showed Sean what her heart was capable of.

Similarly, Sean was also a great character. He has this scar on his face that makes him feel dangerous, but not overly so that you are intimidated by him. He rarely smiles which makes you want to squeeze that little smirk out of him and grin like a fool when he does. What is great about Rebecca and Sean was that they seemed like genuine people who slowly learn to trust each other and eventually, fall in love.

Bella Riley does a great job of bringing the atmosphere of Emerald Lake into her books. The writing is smooth, light-hearted and felt like a great escape, almost as if you were at Emerald Lake on a little vacation. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and hope to return to Emerald Lake soon! WITH THIS KISS is the perfect weekend read.


*ARC provided by publisher

[Cocktails and Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rebecca Campbell has always found herself drawn to those tall, dark and broody males who wound up breaking her heart. So to save herself from further heartbreak, she agrees to marry her best friend Stu. But when their engagement ends with Rebecca agreeing to keep his secret she wonders if she'll ever find the man right for her.

Sean Murphy has avoided the small Adirondack town he grew up in because he couldn't face the lies and broken trust within his family. But when he returns for his little brother's wedding, he's in for a shock to find out that not only has the wedding been called off but that he has an instant attraction to the woman who runs the Inn.

Rebecca and Sean seem like a very unlikely couple when they first meet at the beginning of the story, but that changes as you see what a calming effect Rebecca has with Sean. While she may lack a filter and blurt out what she's thinking, she helps Sean learn to deal with the emotions that he's shut off but is having trouble controlling now that he's back home. For Rebecca, Sean helps her confidence and proves to her that she does deserve to be loved and cherished.

It was an interesting twist with the drama revolving around Sean and Stu's parents and I enjoyed how Belle Riley demonstrated a lie and broken confidence can do to an entire family.

I enjoyed the quaint little town of Emerald Lake, which brought back fond memories of summers of my youth growing up in Western New York. The essence of the town and how it can change someone's life leaped off the page as Rebecca tried to make a decision about where her life should go. Makes me wish Emerald Lake were real and I could go and visit it's magic.

[Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

As this book opened I was happy that Sarah and Calvin were getting married, but could understand how Christie felt, her bittersweet feeling of the day. Of course it didn't help when Liam showed up for the wedding that would never be.

I wasn't sure how I felt about Liam and Christie as a couple, mostly due to Liam. He seemed so cold, with a stick up his butt and Christie deserved better. But slowly Liam became more of person, shedding that cold personality and you could see what a good couple they would make, if they had a chance and could get past the past.

I was surprised by all the secrets that the Kane's had for 3 generations. Jean's made me want to cry, she deserved better, glad she shared with her son. Susan's made me mad, she shouldn't have asked that of her son, was glad that everyone knew by the end and they all can try to work past things. And Wesley's...well his was a non-event in my opinion and I was glad that he came back.

[Lynn Lim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bella Andre NEVER, EVER disappoints!!! Can’t Take My Eyes off of You is the second book in the Sullivan spinoff series Summer Lake. I can absolutely, definitely, unequivocally state that Can’t Take My Eyes off of You is a FABULOUS read.
This story is pretty much a “love at first site book” for Liam and Christie. Their reactions to each other was off the charts from the very first glance.
Christie came to Summer Lake to lick her wounds. She had found out the man she was seeing for several months was married and had children. And, even though she did not know, she certainly does not like being the other woman to the cheating b…. PG, keep this review PG. Then when she finds her best friend and fiancé kissing…… Whoops, no spoilers either. Then after they decide to break the engagement, he runs, leaving Christie to break the news to everybody. Then to top everything else off Liam shows up the day before the wedding, not knowing it was cancelled, and starts asking Kristie “Why” and “Where is his brother?” Did I mention that before she knew who Liam was, he knocked Christie’s sock off?
Liam came home for the wedding. He has no intentions of staying anywhere near his mother. He has not really spoken to her since the day he came home from school early to pick up his helmet and found…. Darn I said no spoilers. I will say this, Liam has not trusted anyone since.
I LOVED all the heart wrenching twists and turns that Ms. Andre put in this book. But, do you know what, I can ALWAYS count on Ms. Andre for an emotional read. This fact, is reason why I love her books so much.
I was gifted with an advanced copy of the phenomenal book for my honest opinion, for which I MUST say “Thank You”.
Thank you for reading my review.
Now, what are you waiting for? Go hit that one-click button. I know you will not be disappointed either.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't Take My Eyes Off of You The first Sullivan stole my heart and those Maverick Billionaires staked a claim on my soul. However, I've realized neither hold a candle to the citizens of Summer Lake. The classics meet modern fairytales. Ms. Andre has a talent for blending these two styles and hitting the JACKPOT, more often the not. The central ingredient is the heart. She builds her stories about what makes us most vulnerable. Our emotions! That's why her stories are easy to relate to and hard not to fall in love with. Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You is a triple threat. The atmosphere is inviting, the characters are enticing and the tale, itself is breathtaking. We all dream of finding a love that endures. For a little girl the experience begins the minute we open our first fairytale. For men, it may take a bit longer and be hidden much deeper, but the feeling is still there. But will we take the risk? In my opinion that's what makes a Bella Andre novel so special. It appeals to the dreamer in us all.

[Fos · Rating 2 out of 5]

Audiobook
Narrator wasn't very good.
Her voice was pretentious. Righteous. Superior.
(Think Christine Baranski)

Christie and Liam
Christie works at an Inn.
Liam is a Venture Capitalist.
But everything is basically just home making.

Story was ok. Basically a Stepford Wives town. A bit boring. A bit Hallmarky.
She was a goody goody.
He goes on about her purity and sweetness. She's polite. Barf. White bread, no crust.
Every mundane statement is made out to be 'special' when compared to others.
Liam was a typical suspicious, judging type and Christie just kept crawling after him.

Gay fiancee.
Liam's Mother is stereotype meddling Biyatch.

New to me Author.
Pretty basic.
I can't see myself reading another story, this one was the highest rated.
Nothing too terrible here, just not interesting to me. DNF @ 60%

[Cinthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Bella Andre's books is always a pleasure. This new Series 'Summer Lake' is amazing...

When Christie and Wesley finished their engagement... they remained friends but none know where Wesley is. When his brother Liam come to Summer Lake to watch Wesley and Christie wedding he meets his ex to be sister in law.

When Christie and Liam meet they can't avoid their attraction... they become friends and even with secrets hidden they found the love in each other arms and their love can help all the family.

I love the Kane family the grandma and the men.... Christie is a strong woman who is true to herself and to everyone who knows her... she helps Liam be who he was and they are very happy together.

[Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer Lake, the series by Bella Andre gets better with every story. This story revolves around Christie and Liam, and their bumpy road to an HEA. Bella Andre has a way of weaving a story that has depth, and breadth, usually making for a lovely romance. This book had all that and more. There were complicated family matters, secrets that shouldn't have been kept, and family that needed to learn to love one another again. It was such an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Thanks for a wonderful story.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always love Bella Andre's books!

[Laurel · Rating 3 out of 5]

BElla Andre is one of my favourite contemporary romance authors and I have loved all of her stories. I was very excited to read one of her newest books but I have to admit that I found it a bit lacking in terms of excitement and appeal. The hero Liam was not as “perfect” as her usual main male. The heroine was a bit wish washy, that I wanted to shake her. At times. The story seemed a bit weak.
Overall somewhat disappointing but I won’t let it stop me reading he next book

[Nelle Nazario · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adore these books.

[Mary Gramlich · Rating 5 out of 5]

WITH THIS KISS by Bella Riley (Emerald Lake Series #2)

How hard is it to close the door on old habits?

Rebecca Campbell thought life in a small town was going to be boring especially after she got married to Stu Murphy. Boring is the last thing that happens when Stu runs away before the wedding and his brother Sean shows up angry with everyone and smoking hot. Rebecca never felt for Stu what she has drawing her to Sean, what is up with that?

Running the inn in Emerald Lake had turned Rebecca’s life around. This entire experience gave her a place that felt like it was home. Sean had been running away from Emerald Lake since he became a young man and no one could ever get him to say why. Sean has decided that his investment in the inn should pay off finally and a longer visit will give him time to check out the rest of Rebecca. With Rebecca’s ability to say what comes into her head without thinking, Sean is getting an earful of honest and brash talk. What Sean really wants is to know what it feels like to have Rebecca’s lips brush up against his in a long, sensual kiss. When things start going bump in the night he wants that to be the two of them as fall into a king sized bed.

Rebecca can handle the inn, the festival she has planned, and even the gossip about what is going on in her life. Rebecca is not sure she is ready for Sean and the feelings he brings out in her that she never thought existed. Sean has handled lies and deceit for so long Rebecca’s fresh honesty is warming his heart and freeing whatever negative thoughts he ever had about love and commitment. Sean and Rebecca have an interest in pursuing a relationship. However, the question is do they have enough time to figure out if it is a long-term deal?

This second book in the series proves that Bella Riley is a brilliant romance writer. She takes the time to build the story and provide so much depth with the people that are involved you just feel like they are your neighbors. I personally cannot wait for the next book to see what new adventure is going to happen.

[Khelsey Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca Campbell wants a love that will be forever. That is why she must break things off with Stu Murphy. She walks right into his room and can not believe what she sees. He begs her not to tell anyone about his secret and to give him time. She agrees but in the morning when she thinks he is going to be there, he isn't. She reads his letter he left for her and can't believe he left her to talk everyone alone. When she tells his parents they have a letter from Stu saying that is wasn't Rebecca fault it was his. She is running the Inn for Stu and helping out with her friends wedding when a tall, dark and handsome man is watching her from the doorway. When she finds out that is is the famous Sean she has hear all about from her ex-fiance she is shocked. She always wanted to meet Stu's brother and she almost cant breath because of all the sparks she is feeling.
Sean is upset that Rebecca is keeping a secret he wants to know where his brother is. He know that if he can get though to her, she will tell him. The problem is can he keep his heart in the process?

This is a heart-melting story about love and forgiveness. How someone can show you have to open up your heart. I love how the characters interact with each other. Rebecca isn't a push over and she is a strong women. She has been though a lot and doesn't let it get to her. Sean is a mess and needs someone to love him for who he is. This book is amazing, it will break your heart only to mend it together again!

[Lisa Filipe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I liked With This Kiss, the second book of the series even better than the first book, Home Sweet Home. And I REALLY enjoyed the first book, so that is saying a lot.

I was excited when I found out With This Kiss would feature Rebecca Campbell, who we meet in Home Sweet Home. There had to be a story there and oh..did we get it!

Rebecca was a heroine that anyone could love. She was kind, giving, a hard-worker and she never gave up, or at least, she didn't like to give up. A Fighter all the way, and that is one things I love about my heroines, they are fighters.

Can't forget about SEAN MURPHY...oh baby....I absolutely loved the first few chapters when they get to know each other. The heat, the attraction and the flirting...I was as tight as a violin string when they finally kissed. There is a lot of built up sexual attraction that will keep you turning pages.

And Grandma Celeste's own love story had me bawling...I swear...i was wiping away the tears just so I could finish the story. It is heart-wrenching, and SO WORTH THE READ!!
So anyone who has not yet read Bella Riley...Pick up Home Sweet Home or With This Kiss (which you CAN read as a stand alone if you want), but I recommend reading both! You wont be sorry!!

[Jess · Rating 2 out of 5]

What I Thought: I had a very hard time finishing this book. It was one of those books where I would put it down, and come back to it days or hours later and just find myself wanting to put it right back down. To me, Rebecca was the kind of character who seemed to need validation, or something. If she were a friend of mine I would ask her if she's ever happy without a significant other in her life, because to me it seems that she wouldn't be.

As the book went on I never did warm up to Rebecca or to Sean. Sean was, to put it frankly an asshole. Yeah, his mother did something horrible and shattered his trust, but for him to treat everyone with such contempt really threw me off. I couldn't imagine falling in love with him like Rebecca did.

As for Rebecca's ex-fiance ... seriously, I saw that one coming, I just really REALLY wish that it would have been handled differently throughout the book. I didn't like that even though it was his secret to tell, it was made out to be a bad thing.

Do I Recommend: Honestly, I have a hard time recommending this book. There were parts that were interesting, but for me it just wasn't there. It might be up your alley if you like books that are sweet, with a little bit of mystery.

[Book Lover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christie Hayden loves her job as an Innkeeper in the small town of Summer Lake. She feels like she has finally found where she belongs. Even though West left her to deal with the fallout from breaking off their engagement, she is trying to move on with her life.

Liam Kane has crossed several time zones to get home for his brother’s wedding. He arrives at the Inn, exhausted, to find another couple getting married.

Both Christie and Liam have secrets they are keeping. Liam’s secret has destroyed his relationship with his parents. Christie’s secret is the reason her wedding is called off.

Liam and Christie are instantly attracted to each other. They begin working together at the Inn and fall in love. I didn’t care for Christie’s loose lips. She shared things she had no right to share.

Liam and West’s parents also play a prominent role in this story. It’s really a second story line. I really didn’t like their mom.

This is the second book in the series and it fell a little short for me. I just couldn’t get as wrapped up in it as I usually do with this author.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by the author.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating:3.5 out of 5

I liked this contemporary romance a lot - especially the heroine. She's described as looking very fragile, yet she handles herself with lots of strength of character. I'd rate this book a bit higher, except I'm not a big fan of tons of angst, and this book is overflowing with the angst! There was a HEA, but even so I felt a bit wrung out at the end. Plus, the ghost story was interesting, but in the end it wasn't all that central to the plot.

I think I'd recommend this book but with a few reservations.

[♔ Marli ♔ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Liam and Christie... 3.5 stars...

It was a sweet enough story where the main characters Christie and Liam were perfect for each other - but it fell a little short for me, as I couldn't get as wrapped up in the story as I usually do with this author.

The back and forth with Liam's parents story gave me whiplash and that might be the problem as there is too many focus points as opposed to the story I'm supposed to follow. I get why she wrote it that way....so it's only my opinion.

Writing style is excellent as always, BA forever will be one of my FAVORITE authors!

[Jennifer E · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 Stars

I love Bella Andre and the first time I read a book by her pseudonym Bella Riley. It was enjoyable story. I haven't read the 1st story and I hate that! I loved the sweet love story mixed with the hero's family issues and the spunky grandma.

[Trudy Dowling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly don't know how I survived without Bella Andre's beautiful romances. Hopefully I will never have to find out. I absolutely adore the Sullivan and refuse to pick a favorite. This devotion to the Sullivans had me leery of a spin-off of the New York Sullivans. I knew that Summer Lake was special to them, but was it special enough for its own series??? Yes, yes it is!!!!!!!!!

Not only is Summer Lake special, but it has definitely earned a spin off series. If anyone deserves one of Bella Andre's "Happily Ever After" it is Christie Hayden. She arrived in Summer Lake to help her best friend, Wesley Kane, with the Inn. Everything was comfortable with Wesley and Christie. There were no sparks, but there was a lot of "I am marrying my best friend". There were no kisses but there were pecks on the cheeks. Not all besties make the best lovers. Darkness cover secrets, regrets, reality. In the light of day Christie is left in charge of the Inn and cleaning up Wesley's mess. Wesley is gone without a trace.

Liam Kane arrives back in Summer Lake after 20 years to witness is brother marry Christie. What he witnesses is a chemistry he didn't know possible. What he felt were sparks that he always avoided. He will not love. He will not care. He will not feel. If only he were that strong. Now he has to find the strength to deal with the past, promises that should not have been asked, and accept not only his brother's disappearance but the reason for it.

I have yet to figure out how Bella Andre always has me feeling so many things. I have never been know to be a touchy feely person. Bella Andre just brings everything to the surface for me. I want to be the protector. I want to be the strong shoulder. I want to reach within the pages and knock some sense into some people. I want to look a certain person in the eyes and tell her what I think of the psychological abuse she inflicted on her own child out because of her own selfishness. Burying your head in the sand doesn't not work. Sand blows away, revealing raw emotions that can destroy. The past cannot be denied.

Lucky for me, after being emotional drained, I am rewarded with great endings and hope for a better tomorrow.