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Sapphire Springs #1
Forever with You
From debut author, Barb Curtis, a heartwarming small-town romance about high school sweethearts who return home and discover that first love sometimes gets a second chance. . .
Jay Wynter wants to be successful on his own merit. That's why he left Sapphire Springs and his family's winery to build a career from scratch. But now that he's successor to Wynter Estate, Jay must return to his small hometown to face everything, and everyone, he left behind-especially his high school sweetheart, who happens to be his stunning new business partner . . .
Leyna Milan knows family legacies come with strings attached, but she's determined to prove that she can run her family's restaurant. Of course, Leyna never expected that honoring her grandfather's wishes meant opening a second location on her ex's property-or having to ignore Jay's sexy grin and guard the heart he shattered years before. But as they work closely together, she begins to discover that maybe first loves deserve a second chance . . .
Jay Wynter wants to be successful on his own merit. That's why he left Sapphire Springs and his family's winery to build a career from scratch. But now that he's successor to Wynter Estate, Jay must return to his small hometown to face everything, and everyone, he left behind-especially his high school sweetheart, who happens to be his stunning new business partner . . .
Leyna Milan knows family legacies come with strings attached, but she's determined to prove that she can run her family's restaurant. Of course, Leyna never expected that honoring her grandfather's wishes meant opening a second location on her ex's property-or having to ignore Jay's sexy grin and guard the heart he shattered years before. But as they work closely together, she begins to discover that maybe first loves deserve a second chance . . .
316 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 10, 2020
About the author
Barb Curtis
4 books55 followersA happily-ever-after-crafter at heart, Barb Curtis’ love for writing began with a quick-witted style column, and her background in marketing led to stints writing print and web copy, newsletters, and grant proposals. The switch to fiction came with the decision to pair her creativity with her love for words and crafting characters and settings she could truly get lost in. Barb happily lives in a bubble in rural New Brunswick with her husband, daughter, and dog. You’ll find her restoring the century-old family homestead, weeding the garden, and no doubt whistling the same song all day long.
She is represented by Stacey Graham at 3 Seas Literary Agency. FOREVER WITH YOU is available Nov 10, 2020 from Forever / Grand Central Publishing.
She is represented by Stacey Graham at 3 Seas Literary Agency. FOREVER WITH YOU is available Nov 10, 2020 from Forever / Grand Central Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
January 3, 2021
Call me naive or starry-eyed but I am a firm believer of one true love and soul mates, so obviously a story about separated high-school sweethearts getting a second chance is a trope I can never resist, because, to me there's no love like first love 😍.
Forever with You by Barb Curtis is a charming debut set in the small town of Sapphire Springs and is the prefect heartwarming romance that one can finish in a few hours. I often tell myself (and others) that every book we read needn't be literary or deep or have a learning purpose. Sometimes we just need a simple comforting book that'll leave us relaxed and satisfied. This one is just that - A beautiful love story with some drama, a dash of mystery and the perfect ending. Bonus points for the stunning vineyard descriptions and all the talk on grape growing and wine making. I enjoyed it all and look forward to the next book by this author.
Pick it up if you're in the mood for a quick light romance with likable characters and a gorgeous small town setting.
**A free paperback copy was provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own**
Forever with You by Barb Curtis is a charming debut set in the small town of Sapphire Springs and is the prefect heartwarming romance that one can finish in a few hours. I often tell myself (and others) that every book we read needn't be literary or deep or have a learning purpose. Sometimes we just need a simple comforting book that'll leave us relaxed and satisfied. This one is just that - A beautiful love story with some drama, a dash of mystery and the perfect ending. Bonus points for the stunning vineyard descriptions and all the talk on grape growing and wine making. I enjoyed it all and look forward to the next book by this author.
Pick it up if you're in the mood for a quick light romance with likable characters and a gorgeous small town setting.
**A free paperback copy was provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own**
September 30, 2020
Forever with You is such a comforting read. Jay and Leyna are both wonderful characters, individually compelling on their own and perfect to root for as a couple. They each have enough flaws to be believable, and their journey together will make you stand up and cheer. The winery elements are vivid and descriptive, making the town lovable as its own character. A beautiful breakout from a talented debut author that's not to be missed!
September 30, 2020
A second chance at first love is a dream come true. Especially now, when we all need our dreams to come true.
I've always admired the few couples I know (very few) who made it from high school (or college) sweethearts to hand-holding, happily married twenty-five years later couples who don't even seem to realize how exceptional they are.
Jay and Lenya are cleverly portrayed as they accomplish the necessary growth needed to come together forever.
Congratulations, Ms. Curtis, on a lovely story.
I've always admired the few couples I know (very few) who made it from high school (or college) sweethearts to hand-holding, happily married twenty-five years later couples who don't even seem to realize how exceptional they are.
Jay and Lenya are cleverly portrayed as they accomplish the necessary growth needed to come together forever.
Congratulations, Ms. Curtis, on a lovely story.
July 19, 2021
Forever with You by Barb Curtis is the first book in the contemporary romance Sapphire Springs series. As with a lot of romance series the common theme in this series is the location and the main characters will change from book to book in the series. As the characters are changing the books in this series can be read as a standalone if choosing to do so.
The Sapphire Springs series opens up with a second chance romance with a pair of high school sweethearts being reunited. Leyna Milan has been in talks with the Wynter family when looking for a location to expand her family’s restaurant business but she never expected that the project would be turned over to her ex.
Jay Wynter left Sapphire Springs eighteen years ago and didn’t really plan on returning. When circumstances bring Jay back to the small town he can’t help but remember how much he cared for Leyna and wonders if she could ever forgive him for leaving.
Of course one of my favorite things in romance is when a couple has a history together in a second chance romance and we have that mixed with another favorite of mine in it being set in a small town. With Barb Curtis being a debut author I still wasn’t sure if the series would be a winner but my worries went out the window when I sat down with this charming first of the series. I will definitely be back for more after loving the location and characters in this first book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The Sapphire Springs series opens up with a second chance romance with a pair of high school sweethearts being reunited. Leyna Milan has been in talks with the Wynter family when looking for a location to expand her family’s restaurant business but she never expected that the project would be turned over to her ex.
Jay Wynter left Sapphire Springs eighteen years ago and didn’t really plan on returning. When circumstances bring Jay back to the small town he can’t help but remember how much he cared for Leyna and wonders if she could ever forgive him for leaving.
Of course one of my favorite things in romance is when a couple has a history together in a second chance romance and we have that mixed with another favorite of mine in it being set in a small town. With Barb Curtis being a debut author I still wasn’t sure if the series would be a winner but my worries went out the window when I sat down with this charming first of the series. I will definitely be back for more after loving the location and characters in this first book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 13, 2022
How FOREVER WITH YOU is a debut novel is beyond me! High school sweethearts with a second chance at love? Yes please!! Leyna Milan and Jay Wynter can’t deny the attraction is still there, but Leyna is surely not ready to have her heart broken by Jay once again. All Leyna wants to do is have the chance to prove to her family that she is capable of running her family’s restaurant as well as open a new one. Jay doesn’t know if he will be staying in Sapphire Springs, but wants to prove to Leyna that he has changed and is now a certified grown up! Ha! Hang on to your seats people. You know how this is going to go right?
Jay also needs to prove to his grandfather that is serious about taking over the family vineyards. FOREVER WITH YOU throws the reader for a loop when something tragic happens in the Wynter family that shakes everyone to their core. The secrets that come out afterwards are huge and affect everyone! All Leyna has to do is push forward, ignore Jay and the feelings he stirs up inside of her and honor her Grandfather’s wishes. What could possible go wrong? All of Barb’s characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again.
FOREVER WITH YOU by Barb Curtis is the first book in the Sapphire Spring series and it is the perfect small town romance. I read it fairly quickly and have the next two in the series ready to go. The romance that is growing between Jay and Leyna is not rushed. They take their time to work through their history together and find themselves falling for each other again as adults. It is a sweet romance with wonderful secondary characters and the troubles they are facing are realistic. FOREVER WITH YOU had me flipping pages like mad, grinning endlessly and laughing and giggling out-loud more times than I could count! It is insanely well-written. Barb Curtis has an absolute gift with words and I still can’t believe this is her first novel. Her writing style is so effortless, you feel like you are right in the head of the main characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Forever and Grand Central Publishing through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
Jay also needs to prove to his grandfather that is serious about taking over the family vineyards. FOREVER WITH YOU throws the reader for a loop when something tragic happens in the Wynter family that shakes everyone to their core. The secrets that come out afterwards are huge and affect everyone! All Leyna has to do is push forward, ignore Jay and the feelings he stirs up inside of her and honor her Grandfather’s wishes. What could possible go wrong? All of Barb’s characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again.
FOREVER WITH YOU by Barb Curtis is the first book in the Sapphire Spring series and it is the perfect small town romance. I read it fairly quickly and have the next two in the series ready to go. The romance that is growing between Jay and Leyna is not rushed. They take their time to work through their history together and find themselves falling for each other again as adults. It is a sweet romance with wonderful secondary characters and the troubles they are facing are realistic. FOREVER WITH YOU had me flipping pages like mad, grinning endlessly and laughing and giggling out-loud more times than I could count! It is insanely well-written. Barb Curtis has an absolute gift with words and I still can’t believe this is her first novel. Her writing style is so effortless, you feel like you are right in the head of the main characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Forever and Grand Central Publishing through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
September 19, 2020
Forever with You is Barb's first debut book! We are introduced to Sapphire Springs an adorable small town romance.
I saw one review that was upset on how much book time Jay's dyslexia took up. And I want to take time to address this. First, if you've never had a learning disability then it's not fair to judge on how Jay didn't feel confident in himself. Some suggestions were made on how unrealistic it was because Jay could have hired people to help him. In the book, the grandpa is confident on Jay's ability and even reminds Jay not to worry because they have staff that does accounting and the finer details. However, Jay still doesn't feel like he can do it.
Our school system tries to support students with learning disabilities. However, if you haven't visited an elementary school recently then I would like to remind you that often kids with learning disabilities sometimes leave their home classroom. Or the kids have an assistant help them in the classroom. Being different can lead to being picked on by classmates. In Jay's world he had a lot of messages for not being able to succeed. I think it's important to realize those feelings can be valid for any adult with a learning disability.
Back to the romance. Sapphire Springs is a lovely small town somewhere the Niagara Falls. It's the type of town, Bed and breakfast thrive and also has a winery community. Leyna is running her family's restaurant and is doing the best to keep her grandfather wishes alive. Her grandpa made a deal with his best friend to open up a restaurant at Wynter Estate. Leyna was okay with the idea until her ex, Jay reappeared. The romance is about second chances and love that always lasts.
As I was reading, I predicted who the second couple would be in the next book. I look forward to the second in the series and for more books by this author.
Thank you Forever and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review.
I saw one review that was upset on how much book time Jay's dyslexia took up. And I want to take time to address this. First, if you've never had a learning disability then it's not fair to judge on how Jay didn't feel confident in himself. Some suggestions were made on how unrealistic it was because Jay could have hired people to help him. In the book, the grandpa is confident on Jay's ability and even reminds Jay not to worry because they have staff that does accounting and the finer details. However, Jay still doesn't feel like he can do it.
Our school system tries to support students with learning disabilities. However, if you haven't visited an elementary school recently then I would like to remind you that often kids with learning disabilities sometimes leave their home classroom. Or the kids have an assistant help them in the classroom. Being different can lead to being picked on by classmates. In Jay's world he had a lot of messages for not being able to succeed. I think it's important to realize those feelings can be valid for any adult with a learning disability.
Back to the romance. Sapphire Springs is a lovely small town somewhere the Niagara Falls. It's the type of town, Bed and breakfast thrive and also has a winery community. Leyna is running her family's restaurant and is doing the best to keep her grandfather wishes alive. Her grandpa made a deal with his best friend to open up a restaurant at Wynter Estate. Leyna was okay with the idea until her ex, Jay reappeared. The romance is about second chances and love that always lasts.
As I was reading, I predicted who the second couple would be in the next book. I look forward to the second in the series and for more books by this author.
Thank you Forever and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review.
November 10, 2020
In Barb Curtis’ debut book and the first in the Sapphire Springs series, we are introduced to Leyna and Jay (Jason) and they have a history. Small towns have their own culture and Sapphire Springs does not disappoint; it is fun to get to know the characters. This story is based on a local winery, and the author goes deeper into the making of wines, a great add to the story.
For Leyna and Jay to get their second chance they need to work through obstacles and communicate. Both have insecurities and confidence issues stemming from their past, but the chemistry is still there. Even though they were apart for a significant amount of time, both grew intellectually and emotionally and maybe their teens just was not their time.
As we get to know the secondary characters, they are there to distract and create a mystery to be solved. Looking forward to more from this series, there are some unfinished tales to be told. Wonder who is next?
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the advanced copy for me to review.
For Leyna and Jay to get their second chance they need to work through obstacles and communicate. Both have insecurities and confidence issues stemming from their past, but the chemistry is still there. Even though they were apart for a significant amount of time, both grew intellectually and emotionally and maybe their teens just was not their time.
As we get to know the secondary characters, they are there to distract and create a mystery to be solved. Looking forward to more from this series, there are some unfinished tales to be told. Wonder who is next?
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the advanced copy for me to review.
September 14, 2020
This light-hearted romance was just what I needed. I have been in a bit of a reading rut lately, unable to concentrate & uninterested in anything too complex, or politically or socially charged. Basically, uninterested in most of the books that I typically read. Both my virtual & physical TBR piles are brimming over and yet I could not stay focused. This sweet story was uncomplicated & I knew that it would have a happy ending. Sometimes that is just what you need. I enjoyed the characters, their backstories, & how they both had weaknesses that they could help each other with, not just a heroine that needed to be saved.
I am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
I am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
November 9, 2020
Comforting, summery, and sweet!
Forever with You is a lighthearted, second-chance romance featuring the hardworking, ruggedly handsome vintner Jay who broke his high school girlfriends heart when he left without a trace, and the spirited, loyal, restaurateur Layna who’s too busy keeping her family’s legacy afloat to open herself up for more heartache from the man who shattered her heart eighteen years ago.
The writing is fluid and warm. The characters are lovable, kind, and empathetic. And the plot is an uplifting, engaging tale about life, love, family, friendship, forgiveness, collaboration, healing, self-discovery, happiness, success, new beginnings, and a sliver of mystery.
Overall, Forever with You is a heartwarming, breezy, delightful tale by Curtis that has characters you can’t help but root for and a happy-ever-after ending that leaves you smiling, satisfied, and quickly adding Only You (Sapphire Springs #2) to the top of your TBR list for 2021.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Forever with You is a lighthearted, second-chance romance featuring the hardworking, ruggedly handsome vintner Jay who broke his high school girlfriends heart when he left without a trace, and the spirited, loyal, restaurateur Layna who’s too busy keeping her family’s legacy afloat to open herself up for more heartache from the man who shattered her heart eighteen years ago.
The writing is fluid and warm. The characters are lovable, kind, and empathetic. And the plot is an uplifting, engaging tale about life, love, family, friendship, forgiveness, collaboration, healing, self-discovery, happiness, success, new beginnings, and a sliver of mystery.
Overall, Forever with You is a heartwarming, breezy, delightful tale by Curtis that has characters you can’t help but root for and a happy-ever-after ending that leaves you smiling, satisfied, and quickly adding Only You (Sapphire Springs #2) to the top of your TBR list for 2021.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2020
Forever With You is a compelling and heartfelt second chance romance. Jay broke Leyna’s heart 18 years ago, and now he’s back in town to help run his family’s business. The chemistry between these two characters made each of their encounters sizzle, but their relationship is complicated by both their past and the uncertainty of their future. I loved reading their story, which was tender and lovely, but with layers of doubt and distrust. I look forward to the next book in this series!
November 5, 2020
Forever with You is a homerun for debut author Barb Curtis. You couldn't ask for a more perfect pairing for a second chance romance than Jay Winter and Lyna Milan.
Set in wine country, these two ex-highschool sweethearts have come a long way. It's been eighteen long years since they've seen each other. Grab the pinot and get ready to savor every interaction between these two!
I enjoyed every moment of it!
~Tanja
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September 15, 2020
This was such a cute little romance. It reminds me of one of my greatest joys - hallmark romance movies (although I always feel books are so much better). Jay and Leyna have great chemistry. I love their story arc. I also adore how Jay's initial leaving wasn't played off as a mistake. Instead, most characters looked at it as something that needed to be done in order for the two characters to grow. I think far too many times books romanticize this "high school sweetheart" romance. Instead, Forever with You gives the trope it's due while also underscoring the need for individual growth when coming into adulthood. I absolutely loved that.
I think the pacing of the story was perfect. I never felt like we were just getting unnecessary cutesy information, but seeing real growth in the characters and their relationship. I also thought the overall story arc was interesting (and included a twist I didn't see coming). Such a fun read that left me grinning from ear to ear.
I think the pacing of the story was perfect. I never felt like we were just getting unnecessary cutesy information, but seeing real growth in the characters and their relationship. I also thought the overall story arc was interesting (and included a twist I didn't see coming). Such a fun read that left me grinning from ear to ear.
September 17, 2020
I enjoyed this book! Barb Curtis does a great job of developing the characters and helping you understand how their lives are connected and how that affects their story. It was intriguing to read about a winery and learn a little about caring for a vineyard. I thought the relationship between Leyna and Jay was really sweet -- as well as Leyna's friendship with Emily. It's a great small-town, second chance romance with a little mystery involved -- if you like romance, you'll like this read!
*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.*
*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.*
November 9, 2020
What a dynamic debut novel Forever with You is.
Second chance romances are fun especially where there is such sizzling chemistry that had laid dormant that has now been reawoken.
Small town Sapphire Springs is a lovely small town with all the right feels to make you want to stay.
The climate is perfect for grape growing and the wine is tasty.
It hasn't always been easy though, the climate can be temperamental and it's often a game of waiting to see if the crop will make it.
Raised by his grandfather Jay Wynter wants to show the world he is successful on his own not by hanging onto his grandfather's coat tails. He wants to start his own career from scratch.
Second chances at love don't always come around so when he gets called up as the successor at Wynter Estate he must return to Sapphire Springs to face everyone including his ex-girlfriend from high school.
This book is incredible and I loved the well developed characters and seeing the chemistry take off between Jay and Leyna.
I can not wait to read the next book in the Sapphire Spring series.
Expected publication: November 10th 2020 by Forever
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Second chance romances are fun especially where there is such sizzling chemistry that had laid dormant that has now been reawoken.
Small town Sapphire Springs is a lovely small town with all the right feels to make you want to stay.
The climate is perfect for grape growing and the wine is tasty.
It hasn't always been easy though, the climate can be temperamental and it's often a game of waiting to see if the crop will make it.
Raised by his grandfather Jay Wynter wants to show the world he is successful on his own not by hanging onto his grandfather's coat tails. He wants to start his own career from scratch.
Second chances at love don't always come around so when he gets called up as the successor at Wynter Estate he must return to Sapphire Springs to face everyone including his ex-girlfriend from high school.
This book is incredible and I loved the well developed characters and seeing the chemistry take off between Jay and Leyna.
I can not wait to read the next book in the Sapphire Spring series.
Expected publication: November 10th 2020 by Forever
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
September 18, 2020
This is a charming second chance romance set in a small town. Jay left the family winery business to make it in his own. He is now back and has to face his high school Leyna as well as now work with her. Leyna is not thrilled with Jays return especially while trying to open a new restaurant. The romance between Jay and Leyna was not rushed. They took their time to get through their history together and found themselves falling for each other again as adults. It was a sweet romance with wonderful side characters and the obstacles were realistic. It was fun read which I thoroughly enjoyed.
November 10, 2020
Actual rating: 4.5 stars.
This is a fantastic debut novel. If you love second chance romances this is a really good one.
Jay and Leyna were highschool sweethearts. Their love was more than just puppy love, it was the real once in a lifetime kind of love that very few people get to experience. Jay was a noble idiot and broke up with Leyna so that she wouldn't feel tied down to Sapphire Springs and left town. Eighteen years later they meet again as business partners to honor a partnership that was set in place by their grandfathers. Will they get their second chance at love?
Jay and Leyna were both believable characters with flaws and their own personal struggles they needed to work through. They both left successful jobs and moved back to their hometown of Sapphire Springs for their families. Leyna came back home to take over to her family's restaurant Rosalia's after her grandfather passed away. She has big plans to expand the restaurant but finds herself in financial disarray. Jay came back to help his grandfather's winery, Wynter Estate after he suffers a stroke. Jay knows everything a person possibly can about producing wine but doesn't think he's cut out to take over as CEO of Wynter Estate because of his dyslexia. Him finding his self-worth was a really important element of his character development. Jay and Leyna had amazing chemistry. Even after 18 years their feelings never changed. A love like theirs is very special and very few find it.
I love the small-town atmosphere, the importance of family, and the friendships in this book just as much as I loved the romance. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the winery. I could definitely see this as a Hallmark Channel movie. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
Thank you to Forever for sending me a copy of this book.
This is a fantastic debut novel. If you love second chance romances this is a really good one.
Jay and Leyna were highschool sweethearts. Their love was more than just puppy love, it was the real once in a lifetime kind of love that very few people get to experience. Jay was a noble idiot and broke up with Leyna so that she wouldn't feel tied down to Sapphire Springs and left town. Eighteen years later they meet again as business partners to honor a partnership that was set in place by their grandfathers. Will they get their second chance at love?
Jay and Leyna were both believable characters with flaws and their own personal struggles they needed to work through. They both left successful jobs and moved back to their hometown of Sapphire Springs for their families. Leyna came back home to take over to her family's restaurant Rosalia's after her grandfather passed away. She has big plans to expand the restaurant but finds herself in financial disarray. Jay came back to help his grandfather's winery, Wynter Estate after he suffers a stroke. Jay knows everything a person possibly can about producing wine but doesn't think he's cut out to take over as CEO of Wynter Estate because of his dyslexia. Him finding his self-worth was a really important element of his character development. Jay and Leyna had amazing chemistry. Even after 18 years their feelings never changed. A love like theirs is very special and very few find it.
I love the small-town atmosphere, the importance of family, and the friendships in this book just as much as I loved the romance. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the winery. I could definitely see this as a Hallmark Channel movie. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
Thank you to Forever for sending me a copy of this book.
November 9, 2020
This was this author's debut novel and she knocked it out of the park! Forever with You is a small town, second chance at love romance. It takes place mostly at a vinyard, which I just loved. There was just enough grape/vinyard information to let you know some of the background without being overwhelming.
The renewed relationship between Jay and Leyna hit just the right chord with me. Having Jay leave her before, there needed to be some significant resistance on Leyna's part in order to make it feel realistic and the author struck a good balance between that and eventual forgiveness.
There were enough secondary characters to fill out the story and help develop the characterization of Jay and Leyna. The crooked guys in the book were not overly obvious.
Great job on a first novel! I can't wait for the next one!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley. All thoughts are my own.
The renewed relationship between Jay and Leyna hit just the right chord with me. Having Jay leave her before, there needed to be some significant resistance on Leyna's part in order to make it feel realistic and the author struck a good balance between that and eventual forgiveness.
There were enough secondary characters to fill out the story and help develop the characterization of Jay and Leyna. The crooked guys in the book were not overly obvious.
Great job on a first novel! I can't wait for the next one!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley. All thoughts are my own.
November 12, 2020
This debut romance was a real treat!
Leyna and Jay have history, and the kind of history that can be hard to recover from. Jay chose to leave Leyna behind, and pursue a life away from everything she loved. She stayed, and continued trying to better her family business in Sapphire Springs. She is in the midst of a collaboration with Jay's family that could mean everything to her and her business, when Jay is forced to come back to town to run his family business.
This second chance romance is a lot of fun, with a lot of chemistry. I ended up really enjoying all of the small town dynamics, and am looking forward to more in this series, and from this author.
Leyna and Jay have history, and the kind of history that can be hard to recover from. Jay chose to leave Leyna behind, and pursue a life away from everything she loved. She stayed, and continued trying to better her family business in Sapphire Springs. She is in the midst of a collaboration with Jay's family that could mean everything to her and her business, when Jay is forced to come back to town to run his family business.
This second chance romance is a lot of fun, with a lot of chemistry. I ended up really enjoying all of the small town dynamics, and am looking forward to more in this series, and from this author.
November 9, 2020
I am a big fan of second chance romance because I went through it! Lol, I mean not everyone have the opportunity to rekindle past romance and to have your happily every after. This book have that feel good romance but not cheesy. This is charming and delightful. The characters are well developed and the plot is truly fascinating. Love is indeed very special. Highly recommend!
October 21, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley, Forever, and Grand Central for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I truly enjoyed this book. I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-second chance romance
-enemies/rivals to lovers
-forced partnership
-a wonderful story about family
-a bit of a mystery
-slow burn tension
-closed door romance that is just so sweet
-wine, wine, and more wine
I really enjoyed this second chance romance that took place at a winery. It was just well written and enjoyable. I found myself laughing, calling out for the characters to finally kiss, it sucked me in, in the best ways. I really enjoyed Jay's character. He was insecure about his dyslexia. Both Jay and Leyna were dealing with being the heirs to the family business. While Leyna stepped up, with the pressure of being a woman, Jay fled.
This book is like a sweet Hallmark movie that you want to sit down with a glass of wine and enjoy. I can't wait for more in this series and from this author.
Trigger warnings: grief, parental abandonment, death of a parent/grandparent
Rating: 5
Steam: 2
I truly enjoyed this book. I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-second chance romance
-enemies/rivals to lovers
-forced partnership
-a wonderful story about family
-a bit of a mystery
-slow burn tension
-closed door romance that is just so sweet
-wine, wine, and more wine
I really enjoyed this second chance romance that took place at a winery. It was just well written and enjoyable. I found myself laughing, calling out for the characters to finally kiss, it sucked me in, in the best ways. I really enjoyed Jay's character. He was insecure about his dyslexia. Both Jay and Leyna were dealing with being the heirs to the family business. While Leyna stepped up, with the pressure of being a woman, Jay fled.
This book is like a sweet Hallmark movie that you want to sit down with a glass of wine and enjoy. I can't wait for more in this series and from this author.
Trigger warnings: grief, parental abandonment, death of a parent/grandparent
Rating: 5
Steam: 2
November 10, 2020
This was the feel good story I needed today! I loved Jay and Leyna and I was rooting for them as individuals, and as a couple. I got pulled into the town of Sapphire Springs and the Wynter Winery and I so wish both were real places I could go visit. I loved all the side characters and cannot wait to go back to Sapphire Springs and read Emily’s story. This was my first book by Barb Curtis, and it definitely won’t be my last!
September 24, 2020
This book was a perfect debut and start for a new romance series! I absolutely loved the backdrop of the winery/vineyard alongside the Italian restaurant and adored the way the second chance romance unfolded between the two main characters, Jay and Leyna. Both were very likable as well as relatable and what I greatly appreciated was that they behavior and reactions in the story totally made sense given their history and how their lives unfolded since the first time they were together.
The importance and love of family in this book is a reoccurring theme that develops very nicely from start to finish. The author takes the time to delve into familial histories of the characters just enough, giving the perfect amount of backstory without weighing the book down with too much characterization. I appreciated that the author allows the minor characters to push against the initial expectations created and grow, investing the reader even more deeply into the relationships with them as well as the overall community of Sapphire Springs.
There is a little mystery to this book that I didn't see coming but greatly appreciated as it was wholly entertaining and brought everything together in the end. I also love how well the author trickled in information on certain characters, leaving breadcrumbs to what will surely be upcoming novels in the series (which I will most definitely be reading!).
Overall, this was an incredibly enjoyable read that kept me hooked from the beginning. It is an impressive debut and I am so glad I have a new romance series to enjoy.
The importance and love of family in this book is a reoccurring theme that develops very nicely from start to finish. The author takes the time to delve into familial histories of the characters just enough, giving the perfect amount of backstory without weighing the book down with too much characterization. I appreciated that the author allows the minor characters to push against the initial expectations created and grow, investing the reader even more deeply into the relationships with them as well as the overall community of Sapphire Springs.
There is a little mystery to this book that I didn't see coming but greatly appreciated as it was wholly entertaining and brought everything together in the end. I also love how well the author trickled in information on certain characters, leaving breadcrumbs to what will surely be upcoming novels in the series (which I will most definitely be reading!).
Overall, this was an incredibly enjoyable read that kept me hooked from the beginning. It is an impressive debut and I am so glad I have a new romance series to enjoy.
October 8, 2020
Loved reading this book. Love reading romance. Looking forward to the 2nd in the series
November 9, 2020
When @thatsoestelle recommended this book, I knew had to request it. Thank you to @netgalley and @readforeverpub for a copy of the book. I loved this small town second chance romance. Both Jay and Leyna are trying to move from the past and learn not only to work together but also decide if they want to give their love a second chance. I always enjoy when a story this is multi dimensional. This story deals with family, love and being successful with a disability.
#asbwbookreview
October 5, 2020
From the very beginning this book caught and held my full attention. This story made me feel so many different emotions and brought tears to my eyes especially towards the end. This was such a great start to the series and I can't wait to read the next book!
September 26, 2020
Jay Wynter left Sapphire Springs And the Wynter Winery years ago to find his own Way. He left his high school sweetheart Leyna and broke her heart. Leyna took over her families restaurant Rosalina’s and did major remodeling after her grandfather passed away. Her grandfather and Jay’s grandfather Stefan had dreams of opening another Rosalina’s at the Winery. Leyna and Stefan make plans to do this but Stefan decides that Jay should come back and take over the winery. Leyna is shocked to see him and doubts that they can work together but decide to give it a try. They rekindle their romance but there are lots of hurdles for their romance and the opening of the restaurant. Enjoyed this book!
Thanks to Barb Curtis and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the book!
Thanks to Barb Curtis and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the book!
December 28, 2020
Forever with you, the debut novel by Barb Curtis is a sweet second chance romance that will leave you believing in love and romance like never before. Ms. Curtis has created realistic, well developed characters whom you cant help but connect with. Forever with you is a well written story that takes the reader on a journey of love and reconnection.
Jay Wynter takes over the family business, a beautiful winery in his home town. He moves back to Sapphire Springs to run the winery.
Leyna Milan is a restaurateur who has taken over her grandfathers restaurant and has opened a second location at her ex's winery.
Jay returns to Sapphire Springs and learns he will be working closely with his ex and high school sweetheart Leyna. Throughout their work relationship some of their old feelings re-emerge. But is a second chance at love really in the books for them? Can business partners male a romance work?
Read this sweet, beautiful, debut romance novel by Barb Curtis to find out whether these two get their second chance at real romance.
Jay Wynter takes over the family business, a beautiful winery in his home town. He moves back to Sapphire Springs to run the winery.
Leyna Milan is a restaurateur who has taken over her grandfathers restaurant and has opened a second location at her ex's winery.
Jay returns to Sapphire Springs and learns he will be working closely with his ex and high school sweetheart Leyna. Throughout their work relationship some of their old feelings re-emerge. But is a second chance at love really in the books for them? Can business partners male a romance work?
Read this sweet, beautiful, debut romance novel by Barb Curtis to find out whether these two get their second chance at real romance.
October 23, 2022
I received an ARC copy from Forever in NetGalley.
I loved this book. It was such a beautiful story of love, family, and persevering. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I also received a paperback copy too.
I loved this book. It was such a beautiful story of love, family, and persevering. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I also received a paperback copy too.
September 23, 2020
Great book! Highly recommend.
November 10, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Forever With You begins the new Sapphire Springs series with a romance that doesn’t begin all that happily for Leyna or Jay, not in a way that counts for them because once upon a time – almost two decades ago – they were sweethearts with a future to plan, until Jay up and left town, left Leyna without a word of explanation. Now Jay is back, at first to help his aging grandfather with the family winery but then life gets interesting… and nothing is exactly how it seems on the surface.
Until I got into Forever With You it was very easy to see Jay as the villain in this romance. After all, he had it all, the woman, the winery, and then to go off to “find himself”… yeah, jerk move. Yet. Jay had reasons that run deep, and if the reader gives him a chance will show exactly why he felt he had to leave everything and everyone behind on that personal journey. Was it the right thing to do? I don’t really know, it didn’t seem like it at first but eventually as Leyna and Jay reconnect I began to lean toward a positive feeling toward Jay’s decision back then.
Unfortunately, there are reasons for Jay’s actions that might help you understand why — but they would definitely be spoilers, and that’s not something I’m comfortable with revealing in a review. Right or wrong, Jay had reasons that were important to him, and really that has to factor in when deciding if Jay deserved Leyna’s hatred all these years.
I loved Leyna from the start. She has so much on her plate, and some of those plates are being juggled in the air. Her anger, actual hatred of Jay plays a major part at the beginning of their story. She believed they had a future. For him to just up and leave, without explanation was unforgivable to her. Yet, the love for this man is still buried deep within her heart, and slowly, steadily it’s finding the way to the surface once again… but can she trust him again?
There are emotions in this story, lies, betrayal, misdirection, surprises, and two people finding a way back to what they once had – love and trust for each other. It is not an easy journey, but it is one that drew me in and kept me focused on their attempt to fix the past and move forward. Forever With You started the series with a believable tale – I cannot wait to see what comes next in the series with the next book due out in June of 2021.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Forever With You begins the new Sapphire Springs series with a romance that doesn’t begin all that happily for Leyna or Jay, not in a way that counts for them because once upon a time – almost two decades ago – they were sweethearts with a future to plan, until Jay up and left town, left Leyna without a word of explanation. Now Jay is back, at first to help his aging grandfather with the family winery but then life gets interesting… and nothing is exactly how it seems on the surface.
Until I got into Forever With You it was very easy to see Jay as the villain in this romance. After all, he had it all, the woman, the winery, and then to go off to “find himself”… yeah, jerk move. Yet. Jay had reasons that run deep, and if the reader gives him a chance will show exactly why he felt he had to leave everything and everyone behind on that personal journey. Was it the right thing to do? I don’t really know, it didn’t seem like it at first but eventually as Leyna and Jay reconnect I began to lean toward a positive feeling toward Jay’s decision back then.
Unfortunately, there are reasons for Jay’s actions that might help you understand why — but they would definitely be spoilers, and that’s not something I’m comfortable with revealing in a review. Right or wrong, Jay had reasons that were important to him, and really that has to factor in when deciding if Jay deserved Leyna’s hatred all these years.
I loved Leyna from the start. She has so much on her plate, and some of those plates are being juggled in the air. Her anger, actual hatred of Jay plays a major part at the beginning of their story. She believed they had a future. For him to just up and leave, without explanation was unforgivable to her. Yet, the love for this man is still buried deep within her heart, and slowly, steadily it’s finding the way to the surface once again… but can she trust him again?
There are emotions in this story, lies, betrayal, misdirection, surprises, and two people finding a way back to what they once had – love and trust for each other. It is not an easy journey, but it is one that drew me in and kept me focused on their attempt to fix the past and move forward. Forever With You started the series with a believable tale – I cannot wait to see what comes next in the series with the next book due out in June of 2021.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
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