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Alaska Dream #1
Falling for Alaska
She's chased her dream all the way to Alaska. Her oh-so-gorgeous but grumpy neighbor might try to stop her in this clean and wholesome romance.
Jemma's new business flipping furniture makes some noise. But she quit her job to start over in Palmer, Alaska and she intends to succeed.
Nathaniel’s peace and quiet is shattered when the woman across the street drills and saws. Sure, she’s nice and perhaps attractive, but he doesn’t want anyone close to his heart, and if he did, he wouldn’t choose her.
Then a puppy steps into the picture. Can Jemma and Nathaniel help the puppy and each other? Could love ever be possible for these two?
Falling for Alaska is the first book in the clean and wholesome Alaska Dream Romance series with sisters Jemma, Bree, and Holly each having their own book. If you like wild destinations and fun stories, then you’ll love the first book in Cathryn Brown’s heartwarming series.
Buy or download Falling for Alaska and begin your journey today!
Note: The author was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, so she really gets Alaska and you’ll see the difference in what she writes.
Each book has a happily ever after ending and stands alone, but it’s most enjoyable to read them in order. This ebook also contains a sneak preview of book two, Loving Alaska.
Previously published as a book by Shannon L. Brown.
Jemma's new business flipping furniture makes some noise. But she quit her job to start over in Palmer, Alaska and she intends to succeed.
Nathaniel’s peace and quiet is shattered when the woman across the street drills and saws. Sure, she’s nice and perhaps attractive, but he doesn’t want anyone close to his heart, and if he did, he wouldn’t choose her.
Then a puppy steps into the picture. Can Jemma and Nathaniel help the puppy and each other? Could love ever be possible for these two?
Falling for Alaska is the first book in the clean and wholesome Alaska Dream Romance series with sisters Jemma, Bree, and Holly each having their own book. If you like wild destinations and fun stories, then you’ll love the first book in Cathryn Brown’s heartwarming series.
Buy or download Falling for Alaska and begin your journey today!
Note: The author was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, so she really gets Alaska and you’ll see the difference in what she writes.
Each book has a happily ever after ending and stands alone, but it’s most enjoyable to read them in order. This ebook also contains a sneak preview of book two, Loving Alaska.
Previously published as a book by Shannon L. Brown.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2021
1262 people are currently reading
1024 people want to read
About the author
Shannon L. Brown
13 books115 followersWriting books that are fun and touch your heart
Even though Shannon L. Brown always loved to read, she didn't plan to be a writer. She earned two degrees from the University of Alaska, one in journalism/public communications, but didn't become a journalist.
Years passed. Shannon felt pulled into a writing life, testing her wings with a novel and moving on to articles. Shannon is now an award-winning journalist who has sold hundreds articles to local, national, and regional publications.
"The Feather Chase" was her first published book and begins the Crime-Solving Cousins Mystery series. The eight-to-twelve-year-olds in your life will enjoy this contemporary twist on a Nancy Drew-type mystery. Shannon was born and raised in Alaska so she had fun writing "Falling for Alaska," the first book in the Alaska Dream Romance series.
Shannon lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with her professor husband and adorable calico cat.
To learn more and sign-up to receive Shannon's newsletter, visit www.shannonlbrown.com
Even though Shannon L. Brown always loved to read, she didn't plan to be a writer. She earned two degrees from the University of Alaska, one in journalism/public communications, but didn't become a journalist.
Years passed. Shannon felt pulled into a writing life, testing her wings with a novel and moving on to articles. Shannon is now an award-winning journalist who has sold hundreds articles to local, national, and regional publications.
"The Feather Chase" was her first published book and begins the Crime-Solving Cousins Mystery series. The eight-to-twelve-year-olds in your life will enjoy this contemporary twist on a Nancy Drew-type mystery. Shannon was born and raised in Alaska so she had fun writing "Falling for Alaska," the first book in the Alaska Dream Romance series.
Shannon lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with her professor husband and adorable calico cat.
To learn more and sign-up to receive Shannon's newsletter, visit www.shannonlbrown.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
November 22, 2025
The first thing I noticed was how easily the author pulled me into her setting. I love Alaska and am disappointed by books claimed to be set in Alaska, but really, it’s in name only. It could take place anywhere in the snow. This author has lived in Alaska and her love of this wild and wonderful place shines through her prose.
I was engaged in a sweet, contemporary, enemies-to-more inspirational romance. Jemma Harris arrives in Palmer, Alaska to claim the house her Great-aunt Grace left her in her will. Before she even sets foot in the wilderness, though, she’s irritated by her neighbour, Nathaniel Montgomery. Not a good way to start a new beginning….
I loved the easy banter, the development of a sweet romance, the sibling/family dynamics, and the pull of Alaska. I liked how Jemma (through her gift) gave things a new beginning, too. If you like dogs, there’s a cute one in this story.
I guarantee you’ll be ‘falling for Alaska’ by the time you finish this book!
I was engaged in a sweet, contemporary, enemies-to-more inspirational romance. Jemma Harris arrives in Palmer, Alaska to claim the house her Great-aunt Grace left her in her will. Before she even sets foot in the wilderness, though, she’s irritated by her neighbour, Nathaniel Montgomery. Not a good way to start a new beginning….
I loved the easy banter, the development of a sweet romance, the sibling/family dynamics, and the pull of Alaska. I liked how Jemma (through her gift) gave things a new beginning, too. If you like dogs, there’s a cute one in this story.
I guarantee you’ll be ‘falling for Alaska’ by the time you finish this book!
January 18, 2026
Alaska? I’M IN! 🙆🏻♀️
“Everything changes when you’re in the middle of the outdoors in Alaska.” 👣
Ever since I read ‘The Great Alone’ by Kristin Hannah, I have been obsessed with the Alaskan setting. While it still remains top of my list, I have discovered some other gems that really highlight the beauty and awe of Alaska; this book included ❄️
Written by a born and bred Alaskan herself, Shannon Brown immerses us into the landscape. Alongside the beauty, the narrative follows the life of neighbours Jemma and Nathaniel, in an enemies-to-more romance.
This was a really sweet, fun, and inspiring read. It was full of wholesome family dynamics, wild destinations, and fun stories (including a very cute puppy and a bear too close for comfort). Falling for Alaska was a great way to kick off this heartwarming series…
I have to admit, at the beginning it felt a bit one dimensional as I struggled to connect with the characters. However, it definitely grew on me over time. As the book progressed, both the plot and characters became more complex and had more depth to them. The author slowly fed us more interesting information regarding the characters that made them more relatable.
Jemma Harris arrives into small-town Palmer, Alaska, having been left her Great-aunt Grace’s house. She has a new business idea that she is determined to make a success. However, the other side of our narrative focuses on her neighbour, Nathaniel, and he is not impressed by this new business venture; His peace and quiet shattered. Instant enemies.
Enter: cute lost puppy 🐶
And, so it begins…
Can these two learn to settle their differences and help each other out? 👀
After a slow start, I became totally captivated by this storyline. With multiple sub-plots on the line, I was curious where this story would take us. Enemies to lovers isn’t my favourite trope however, Shannon wrote it in such a way that it didn’t actually feel like she had an agenda. The growth of their relationship felt so genuine, with multiple variables at play.
Furthermore, I see this book as much more than a romance. To me, it felt more like a journey of self-discovery. Jemma, through her new business venture, created a new beginning for herself; one she only dreamed of. While Nathaniel also saw growth in his life through his family, friends, and of course, a (rascally) PUPPY 🐶
Overall, this was an enjoyable and entertaining read. It certainly had some unique concepts which I enjoyed and Jemma’s humour was highly entertaining. It was nice to read a book that had a guaranteed happy ending, and although I felt it was slightly rushed, this book had a fantastic end. Finally, one last thing that I loved about this book is that the author, Shannon Brown, was born and raised in Alaska and had first hand experience on the adventures mentioned in this book. Including: the hike Gull Rock Trail, boating up to Tyone Lake, and canoeing Eklutna Lake 👣 🛶
“This is Alaska. A nothingness, stillness, sense of awe and wonder. Alaska.” 😌💖✨
4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
“Everything changes when you’re in the middle of the outdoors in Alaska.” 👣
Ever since I read ‘The Great Alone’ by Kristin Hannah, I have been obsessed with the Alaskan setting. While it still remains top of my list, I have discovered some other gems that really highlight the beauty and awe of Alaska; this book included ❄️
Written by a born and bred Alaskan herself, Shannon Brown immerses us into the landscape. Alongside the beauty, the narrative follows the life of neighbours Jemma and Nathaniel, in an enemies-to-more romance.
This was a really sweet, fun, and inspiring read. It was full of wholesome family dynamics, wild destinations, and fun stories (including a very cute puppy and a bear too close for comfort). Falling for Alaska was a great way to kick off this heartwarming series…
I have to admit, at the beginning it felt a bit one dimensional as I struggled to connect with the characters. However, it definitely grew on me over time. As the book progressed, both the plot and characters became more complex and had more depth to them. The author slowly fed us more interesting information regarding the characters that made them more relatable.
Jemma Harris arrives into small-town Palmer, Alaska, having been left her Great-aunt Grace’s house. She has a new business idea that she is determined to make a success. However, the other side of our narrative focuses on her neighbour, Nathaniel, and he is not impressed by this new business venture; His peace and quiet shattered. Instant enemies.
Enter: cute lost puppy 🐶
And, so it begins…
Can these two learn to settle their differences and help each other out? 👀
After a slow start, I became totally captivated by this storyline. With multiple sub-plots on the line, I was curious where this story would take us. Enemies to lovers isn’t my favourite trope however, Shannon wrote it in such a way that it didn’t actually feel like she had an agenda. The growth of their relationship felt so genuine, with multiple variables at play.
Furthermore, I see this book as much more than a romance. To me, it felt more like a journey of self-discovery. Jemma, through her new business venture, created a new beginning for herself; one she only dreamed of. While Nathaniel also saw growth in his life through his family, friends, and of course, a (rascally) PUPPY 🐶
Overall, this was an enjoyable and entertaining read. It certainly had some unique concepts which I enjoyed and Jemma’s humour was highly entertaining. It was nice to read a book that had a guaranteed happy ending, and although I felt it was slightly rushed, this book had a fantastic end. Finally, one last thing that I loved about this book is that the author, Shannon Brown, was born and raised in Alaska and had first hand experience on the adventures mentioned in this book. Including: the hike Gull Rock Trail, boating up to Tyone Lake, and canoeing Eklutna Lake 👣 🛶
“This is Alaska. A nothingness, stillness, sense of awe and wonder. Alaska.” 😌💖✨
4 🌟🌟🌟🌟
March 12, 2016
This cute and sweet romance is the perfect start to a new series. Reminiscent of Pride & Prejudice, the chemistry between Nathaniel and Jemma is instantly electric and intensifies the longer it simmers. The author paints a beautiful picture of Alaska as a supporting character in the novel. Family dynamics provide an inspirational angle (though not overtly spiritual), while two precocious little girls and one adorable puppy ratchet up the “aww” factor without turning saccharine. This is a charming novel sure to delight!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.)
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.)
February 22, 2016
Falling for Alaska (An Alaska Dream Romance)***** by Shannon L. Brown
Jemma Harris inherits a house on the outskirts of a small town—Palmer, Alaska, she immediately leaves Atlanta on the next plane. She is going to finally follow her long-time dream, rehab furniture in her garage and sell her creations.
Her neighbor, marketing expert Nathaniel Montgomery, works at home and enjoys the peace and quiet. However, his quiet is shattered by the new neighbor across the street and her loud power tools. How is he to get any work done with all that racket?
It was fun to watch Jemma and Nathaniel as they tried to just be neighborly despite their differences and fight the attraction that soon developed. I loved the descriptions of Alaska—it's wilderness beauty and of the small town. Jemma's two little nieces are adorable and captured my heart as much as Alaska has. Enjoyed how the puppy—Chloe wiggled her way into Nathaniel's heart and life. Falling for Alaska is a heartwarming story.
~I received an e-book copy from the author, this is my honest review~
Jemma Harris inherits a house on the outskirts of a small town—Palmer, Alaska, she immediately leaves Atlanta on the next plane. She is going to finally follow her long-time dream, rehab furniture in her garage and sell her creations.
Her neighbor, marketing expert Nathaniel Montgomery, works at home and enjoys the peace and quiet. However, his quiet is shattered by the new neighbor across the street and her loud power tools. How is he to get any work done with all that racket?
It was fun to watch Jemma and Nathaniel as they tried to just be neighborly despite their differences and fight the attraction that soon developed. I loved the descriptions of Alaska—it's wilderness beauty and of the small town. Jemma's two little nieces are adorable and captured my heart as much as Alaska has. Enjoyed how the puppy—Chloe wiggled her way into Nathaniel's heart and life. Falling for Alaska is a heartwarming story.
~I received an e-book copy from the author, this is my honest review~
May 22, 2024
3.5 stars. It was clean and cute, but things happened way too fast at the end.
September 5, 2020
Falling for Alaska is a Clean and sweet Enemies to More contemporary romance. Readers who want their romances Clean may be particularly satisfied.
Jemma/FMC, nearly 30yrs old, returns unexpectedly to Alaska after inheriting her great aunt’s 1950’s home in a small town outside Anchorage, Alaska. Jemma’s original business plan had been to quit her corporate job and locate her prospective furniture repurposing shop in Atlanta, GA. The different climate and business opportunities of a small Alaskan town versus a busy southern urban center have thrown Jemma’s business plans off course. After just weeks into her new location with her repurposing shop, Jemma realizes her business goals require serious adjusting.
Nathaniel/MMC, 30yrs+, moved from Seattle to the area 4yrs ago. He is a successful freelance marketing consultant with business accounts scattered around the Anchorage area. His closest customers have clued him in that while his professional abilities are excellent, his standoffish personality could use some work. He needs to concentrate on becoming more friendly and approachable in order to attract new clients. They suggest, find a nice woman and begin bringing her to his business dinners. Perhaps her warmth and amiability will rub off on him. Jemma and Nathaniel decide working together might accomplish both their goals, and so a business relationship between them begins.
Most businesses fail in the first 5yrs. It surprises me that Jemma, who seems to value her own business acumen, never seemed to plan for that real possibility especially after she switches her original business location from sunny and warm, urban Atlanta to the very short summers of small town Alaska. With apparently little extra money to purchase necessary items (a reliable vehicle to haul her products around, proper property insurance) Jemma’s early difficulties seem normal under the circumstances. Falling for Alaska begin slowly for me. I continued reading, and a bit before midpoint began caring more about the characters and became more interested in their story. All along I found myself identifying more with Nathaniel than Jemma. For whatever reason, to me, Jemma seemed to switch between mature and immature behavior. I had a difficult time really understanding her. I thought the final ending was a bit abrupt as well, but that’s just me.
Readers who enjoy reading a Clean version of the Enemies to More trope, and those who appreciate Clean, sweet romances with solid descriptions of lovely settings and don’t mind a slow journey winding toward the story’s conclusion may be very satisfied with Falling for Alaska, bk#1 in this Alaskan series by Cathryn Brown. Falling for Alaska can be read as a standalone title as there are no cliffhangers.
Reader Cautions -
Profanity - None.
Violence - None.
Sexual situations - None. Simply a few kisses.
Falling for Alaska is appropriate for all ages but I believe is intended for adults and mature YAs.
Jemma/FMC, nearly 30yrs old, returns unexpectedly to Alaska after inheriting her great aunt’s 1950’s home in a small town outside Anchorage, Alaska. Jemma’s original business plan had been to quit her corporate job and locate her prospective furniture repurposing shop in Atlanta, GA. The different climate and business opportunities of a small Alaskan town versus a busy southern urban center have thrown Jemma’s business plans off course. After just weeks into her new location with her repurposing shop, Jemma realizes her business goals require serious adjusting.
Nathaniel/MMC, 30yrs+, moved from Seattle to the area 4yrs ago. He is a successful freelance marketing consultant with business accounts scattered around the Anchorage area. His closest customers have clued him in that while his professional abilities are excellent, his standoffish personality could use some work. He needs to concentrate on becoming more friendly and approachable in order to attract new clients. They suggest, find a nice woman and begin bringing her to his business dinners. Perhaps her warmth and amiability will rub off on him. Jemma and Nathaniel decide working together might accomplish both their goals, and so a business relationship between them begins.
Most businesses fail in the first 5yrs. It surprises me that Jemma, who seems to value her own business acumen, never seemed to plan for that real possibility especially after she switches her original business location from sunny and warm, urban Atlanta to the very short summers of small town Alaska. With apparently little extra money to purchase necessary items (a reliable vehicle to haul her products around, proper property insurance) Jemma’s early difficulties seem normal under the circumstances. Falling for Alaska begin slowly for me. I continued reading, and a bit before midpoint began caring more about the characters and became more interested in their story. All along I found myself identifying more with Nathaniel than Jemma. For whatever reason, to me, Jemma seemed to switch between mature and immature behavior. I had a difficult time really understanding her. I thought the final ending was a bit abrupt as well, but that’s just me.
Readers who enjoy reading a Clean version of the Enemies to More trope, and those who appreciate Clean, sweet romances with solid descriptions of lovely settings and don’t mind a slow journey winding toward the story’s conclusion may be very satisfied with Falling for Alaska, bk#1 in this Alaskan series by Cathryn Brown. Falling for Alaska can be read as a standalone title as there are no cliffhangers.
Reader Cautions -
Profanity - None.
Violence - None.
Sexual situations - None. Simply a few kisses.
Falling for Alaska is appropriate for all ages but I believe is intended for adults and mature YAs.
April 6, 2024
Falling For Alaska
This is the story of a young woman who leaves her very lucrative job in Atlanta and moves to her house in Alaska that her great aunt had left her in her will. She is obsessed with making old furniture into something people would buy until her garage burns down and she thinks she is done. This is my review and mine alone. Norma Gorrill
This is the story of a young woman who leaves her very lucrative job in Atlanta and moves to her house in Alaska that her great aunt had left her in her will. She is obsessed with making old furniture into something people would buy until her garage burns down and she thinks she is done. This is my review and mine alone. Norma Gorrill
January 23, 2019
This was a fun, clean romance read that got me because of the puppy and Alaska. Unfortunately the author has no real concept of "show, don't tell" and yet... I had fun. So, a good three star read for me.
October 9, 2019
Pleasant read
A nice light read...engaging characters and likeable setting but very predictable . Good for a light entertaining summer afternoon read.
A nice light read...engaging characters and likeable setting but very predictable . Good for a light entertaining summer afternoon read.
October 8, 2022
I usually read mystery crime books. My cousin lent me this book. I struggled in the beginning only because it wasn't what I normally read. With that said I LOVE THIS BOOK. I would recommend it 100%
April 23, 2024
Lovely book. Clean .. interesting, quirky characters and solid plot.
Yay! Found a new favorite author(s?)
Jemma & Nathaniel :)
[My first good “book funnel” read too.]
Yay! Found a new favorite author(s?)
Jemma & Nathaniel :)
[My first good “book funnel” read too.]
December 17, 2018
Nice easy read. As always, reading about Alaska makes me wonder. the beauty of nature is so evident in every book I read about it.
January 10, 2018
They’re neighbors. But not happy about it. Can loathing turn to love?
Jemma inherits a house and moves to small-town Palmer, Alaska. As she begins her business of flipping furniture, her gorgeous but unpleasant neighbor gets in her way. Sure, she’s making some noise. A little sawing. A bit of drilling. Her dream’s at stake. And she’s not sure about living in Alaska.
Nathaniel loves Alaska and moved here for peace and quiet. That’s been shattered. He’s terrible with relationships. But when a stray puppy enters his life, his heart begins to heal. Could Jemma and Nathaniel have a happily ever after?
Falling for Alaska is the first book in the sweet and clean Alaska Dream Romance series. If you like wild destinations, real struggles, fun stories—and a dash of Jane Austen’s Mr. Darcy, then you’ll love Shannon L. Brown’s heartwarming series.
Loved the fact that you can learn so much about Alaska. The plot was great. Story line awesome. 5 stars.
Jemma inherits a house and moves to small-town Palmer, Alaska. As she begins her business of flipping furniture, her gorgeous but unpleasant neighbor gets in her way. Sure, she’s making some noise. A little sawing. A bit of drilling. Her dream’s at stake. And she’s not sure about living in Alaska.
Nathaniel loves Alaska and moved here for peace and quiet. That’s been shattered. He’s terrible with relationships. But when a stray puppy enters his life, his heart begins to heal. Could Jemma and Nathaniel have a happily ever after?
Falling for Alaska is the first book in the sweet and clean Alaska Dream Romance series. If you like wild destinations, real struggles, fun stories—and a dash of Jane Austen’s Mr. Darcy, then you’ll love Shannon L. Brown’s heartwarming series.
Loved the fact that you can learn so much about Alaska. The plot was great. Story line awesome. 5 stars.
August 22, 2018
A cute, easy read. It was nice to read about a setting that I have heard about (although not yet visited) and to watch someone fall in love with Alaska.
The narration/writing style didn't entirely draw me in and there were moments when the plot moved a little to quickly and felt underdeveloped and then other moments that could have been thinned. Some changes seemed to be too easy to overcome, which took away from any conflict between the characters (which is just not what I'm used to seeing in a romance--although kind of nice, it did leave the characters feeling a little flat).
A nice, read-in-one-sitting book. I would definitely read continuations about her sisters!
The narration/writing style didn't entirely draw me in and there were moments when the plot moved a little to quickly and felt underdeveloped and then other moments that could have been thinned. Some changes seemed to be too easy to overcome, which took away from any conflict between the characters (which is just not what I'm used to seeing in a romance--although kind of nice, it did leave the characters feeling a little flat).
A nice, read-in-one-sitting book. I would definitely read continuations about her sisters!
March 10, 2019
Rough draft quality
Ok, so i wanted to like this book, and the premise was entertaining. The pacing was good. The plot was fine. But the writing just felt rushed and vague. I couldn't feel the characters, i couldn't picture the setting. Ask the "details" were vague allusions, leaving the reader to "fill in the gaps" mentally. There was a great opportunity to develop a deep story, giving characters depth and growth, but the entire process was trivialized by rushing through it and oversimplifying. I was pretty let down. I did finish reading it, so it's not terrible, but it wasn't really satisfying either.
Ok, so i wanted to like this book, and the premise was entertaining. The pacing was good. The plot was fine. But the writing just felt rushed and vague. I couldn't feel the characters, i couldn't picture the setting. Ask the "details" were vague allusions, leaving the reader to "fill in the gaps" mentally. There was a great opportunity to develop a deep story, giving characters depth and growth, but the entire process was trivialized by rushing through it and oversimplifying. I was pretty let down. I did finish reading it, so it's not terrible, but it wasn't really satisfying either.
March 5, 2020
Struggled to rate this one
I struggled to rate this one. I can see the author was going for a sweet, light romance but the obstacles in their person lives and their emotion issues weren't believably handled. Things were too suddenly resolved or worked out. Like his and his father's relationship. Nope. I couldn't believe this story and it was sad because I wanted to. I tried even to over look somethings but in the end was frustrated.
I struggled to rate this one. I can see the author was going for a sweet, light romance but the obstacles in their person lives and their emotion issues weren't believably handled. Things were too suddenly resolved or worked out. Like his and his father's relationship. Nope. I couldn't believe this story and it was sad because I wanted to. I tried even to over look somethings but in the end was frustrated.
December 17, 2017
Not what I expected. So much better!
This was significantly better than I anticipated. It had great characters and an interesting plot. I would definitely recommend this. And I will reread it.
This was significantly better than I anticipated. It had great characters and an interesting plot. I would definitely recommend this. And I will reread it.
September 2, 2022
Who calls it a viable business operating out of a substandard, uninsured home garage. She uses solvents in a residential neighborhood and power tools from early in the day. Then, gets mad when her neighbor asks her to tone it down and questions her business. She's got no business license, business name, working truck, business bank account, system for collecting state tax or paying it. Instead of being grateful for his kindness in helping her several times, including driving her crap to a flea market, she becomes petulant and silent, only to request his help again. Both main characters have pushy parents that want marriages. That's their theme. The mains are in their thirties, but are unable to get parents to give it a rest. The sister Holly is trying for a teaching position, no husband, two kids, no job. How does she live? Then, suddenly at the end, she's trying to be a realtor but isn't licensed. So, she's not one, but is arranging sake of her sister's house. The sister, Jenna, had just paid a plumber half for work on her inherited home, then, splits tien, before the work is done to run home to Tennessee to her parents' home, a long way from Alaska. Then, immediately returns as she found out she can work remotely for her old boss. She hadn't even said bye to the guy who helped her market her dumb business gratis. His life with her will be that if he says one innocent remark, she'll sulk and run away to complain, plus, go silent. But since, he already knows she's easily offended and mean, and wants to marry her, and be sucked into her unprofitable business, that's his problem.
July 15, 2024
2.4. Sweet but very clunky. The writing is choppy and the dialogue is often stilted. The character development also feels clumsy and often unbelievable/unrealistic:
- Jemma was supposedly quite successful in her previous career and yet seems totally clueless at business. She supposedly has a plan she’s been working on for years, and yet there’s no evidence of that anywhere. What person of her age and background wouldn’t be aware that they need a website (or at least get on Etsy ) asap once they’ve decided to try to get a maker business off the ground? Businesses cards, flyers, social media — apparently none of these have crossed her mind either. Insurance? Nope, not even after one calamity befalls her workshop. Getting a part-time job to support herself while she’s getting things off the ground? Only crosses her mind for a minute, because apparently it’s all or nothing. Luckily, everything magically works out.
- Nathaniel has endured childhood traumas that supposedly left scars into adulthood, but then suddenly can just turn that around out of nowhere bc Jemma essentially suggests he should get over it.
- Holly, Jemma’s sister, struggled to get a degree as a single mother, but then suddenly just does a 180 and out of nowhere is becoming a real estate agent at the end.
All of the parents are caricatures.
The timeline is also wonky.
All of that said, I was still mostly enjoying the read for most of the book, even if a bit schmaltzy, but then the end took the cheese-factor over the top. The resolution also felt kind of abrupt, and while sweet, unearned.
- Jemma was supposedly quite successful in her previous career and yet seems totally clueless at business. She supposedly has a plan she’s been working on for years, and yet there’s no evidence of that anywhere. What person of her age and background wouldn’t be aware that they need a website (or at least get on Etsy ) asap once they’ve decided to try to get a maker business off the ground? Businesses cards, flyers, social media — apparently none of these have crossed her mind either. Insurance? Nope, not even after one calamity befalls her workshop. Getting a part-time job to support herself while she’s getting things off the ground? Only crosses her mind for a minute, because apparently it’s all or nothing. Luckily, everything magically works out.
- Nathaniel has endured childhood traumas that supposedly left scars into adulthood, but then suddenly can just turn that around out of nowhere bc Jemma essentially suggests he should get over it.
- Holly, Jemma’s sister, struggled to get a degree as a single mother, but then suddenly just does a 180 and out of nowhere is becoming a real estate agent at the end.
All of the parents are caricatures.
The timeline is also wonky.
All of that said, I was still mostly enjoying the read for most of the book, even if a bit schmaltzy, but then the end took the cheese-factor over the top. The resolution also felt kind of abrupt, and while sweet, unearned.
April 18, 2022
Page 106 Out of the mouths of babes (twin sisters re mother &aunt) What a Hoot! Book /GREAT READ!
Jemma and Nathaniel sure do start off on the wrong feet and keep clashing for a bit. However after awhile opposites do attract with trial and time! She is trying to start her own business and that is what his business is! Helping people manage their businesses! It's just that he just doesn't believe in her business from the beginning because he classifies it as junk is junk! Even if painted or decorated or sanded, no matter!
Plus she had just come from Atlanta where she'd held a top executive job working 60 hours weeks and tons of meetings etc with a wardrobe card expense at her disposal! Now she's moved to Alaska finally making her dream business come true and putting her artwork into her pieces of wood! Her father had taught her all the wood cutting tools, etc! plus all other shop supplies, sewing supplies, crafts, artwork etc!
Then a major massive twist occurs that is devastating and you've got to read the book to see how in the world Nathaniel is ever going to get her back after she up and leaves the state suddenly!
Jemma and Nathaniel sure do start off on the wrong feet and keep clashing for a bit. However after awhile opposites do attract with trial and time! She is trying to start her own business and that is what his business is! Helping people manage their businesses! It's just that he just doesn't believe in her business from the beginning because he classifies it as junk is junk! Even if painted or decorated or sanded, no matter!
Plus she had just come from Atlanta where she'd held a top executive job working 60 hours weeks and tons of meetings etc with a wardrobe card expense at her disposal! Now she's moved to Alaska finally making her dream business come true and putting her artwork into her pieces of wood! Her father had taught her all the wood cutting tools, etc! plus all other shop supplies, sewing supplies, crafts, artwork etc!
Then a major massive twist occurs that is devastating and you've got to read the book to see how in the world Nathaniel is ever going to get her back after she up and leaves the state suddenly!
February 11, 2024
Jemma
Nathaniel
Jemma has just moved to Palmer, Alaska after inheriting her Great Aunt Grace’s house. She has decided now she can start her own business that she has been planning for the last few years. She re-purposes furniture. Nathaniel is a Marketing Consultant and lives across the street from Jemma. They don’t get off to a good start but time and a rescued puppy may change their relationship. Jemma is a strong character who believes in her business concept and wants to succeed. Nathaniel isn’t sure of her business idea and even refers to what she uses as junk. Jemma is confused she may have not made the right decision when she moved to Alaska, but works towards finding new friends and her feelings for Alaska. Nathaniel has to overcome some personal problems with his Father. When they rescue the puppy Nathaniel has to keep her and he bonds with the puppy which helps him as he hasn’t let anyone or anything get close to him since his problems with his Father. This is a good sweet book, that reads fast. I would definitely read more books by this author and this series.
Nathaniel
Jemma has just moved to Palmer, Alaska after inheriting her Great Aunt Grace’s house. She has decided now she can start her own business that she has been planning for the last few years. She re-purposes furniture. Nathaniel is a Marketing Consultant and lives across the street from Jemma. They don’t get off to a good start but time and a rescued puppy may change their relationship. Jemma is a strong character who believes in her business concept and wants to succeed. Nathaniel isn’t sure of her business idea and even refers to what she uses as junk. Jemma is confused she may have not made the right decision when she moved to Alaska, but works towards finding new friends and her feelings for Alaska. Nathaniel has to overcome some personal problems with his Father. When they rescue the puppy Nathaniel has to keep her and he bonds with the puppy which helps him as he hasn’t let anyone or anything get close to him since his problems with his Father. This is a good sweet book, that reads fast. I would definitely read more books by this author and this series.
June 29, 2019
When Jemma’s aunt left her a house in Palmer, Alaska, Jemma decided it was time to ditch her corporate job and head north to realize her dream of owning her own business. Her garage became a workshop as Jemma flipped furniture, fabrics, and old linens into objects of art and new function. However, Jemma’s only close neighbor, Nathaniel, objects to the noise from her tools and “the chaos” of her junk and not so quiet twin nieces. They were definitely not off to a great start.
This is a sweet story set in one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. It reminded me of how much I enjoyed our two trips to Alaska and how much I like reading clean stories about the rocky road to true romance.
This is a sweet story set in one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. It reminded me of how much I enjoyed our two trips to Alaska and how much I like reading clean stories about the rocky road to true romance.
July 24, 2017
"Falling for Alaska" by Shannon Brown
A fun, flirty, enjoyable and engaging novel from beginning to end.
Shannon Brown had written a truly wonderful and sweet story with "Falling for Alaska." Her characters are well written, relatable, honest and engaging. The storyline is interesting, descriptive, and keeps the reader wanting to continue reading from beginning to end.
The first novel in the Alaska Dream Romance series is wonderfully written and a truly sweet and engaging read. I look forward to reading the next novel in this series.
Rating: 4.4
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A fun, flirty, enjoyable and engaging novel from beginning to end.
Shannon Brown had written a truly wonderful and sweet story with "Falling for Alaska." Her characters are well written, relatable, honest and engaging. The storyline is interesting, descriptive, and keeps the reader wanting to continue reading from beginning to end.
The first novel in the Alaska Dream Romance series is wonderfully written and a truly sweet and engaging read. I look forward to reading the next novel in this series.
Rating: 4.4
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 8, 2018
I simply loved this story and didn't want to put it down each night as I read a portion of it. Jemma and Nathaniel are polar opposites but this story proves that opposites can sometimes attract, even when two hearts keep fighting it. Having been to Alaska once, I loved the setting and it made me want to go back soon to see more of its glorious scenery. This book has everything I want in a romance - adventure, conflict, humor, wonderful characters, love and wholesome reading. Thank you, Shannon, for a great book!
Read
February 18, 2019DNF at 25% The scene where they feed a small puppy raw steak and then take it to be washed in the bath in the guys bedroom was the end for me. There were too many ??!!?? moments - the way Jemma went on the walk without knowing anything about where it was or that she needed to bring her own lunch, or that no transport was provided, or that it was a 2 and a half hour drive to where they were going to walk, and the organiser didn't check that she was properly equipped...
And the scene with the 'flood' caused by the water company was just plain.... stupid.
Not rating.
And the scene with the 'flood' caused by the water company was just plain.... stupid.
Not rating.
July 26, 2020
Cute, sweet romance. I was drawn to this book because of the upcycled furniture slant. Would have appreciated more detail on the junking - kind of along the lines of Mary Kay Andrews - where the great finds are the most satisfying part of the business! Still, I found this an enjoyable light afternoon read. Moving on to something else now but wouldn’t hesitate to go back to this series later. It appears the series could be read out of order or with time between as the next one focus’ on a new couple.
November 14, 2022
From Fighting to Forever
We have a trash to treasure artist and a web designer who lock horns the first half dozen times they meet. However, slowly, they begin to make peace. A broken water main and a darling puppy start to bring peace to this rocky relationship. The beautiful backdrop is Alaska.
I enjoyed the funny conversations and the awe inspiring description of the scenery. However, I normally stick with Christian authors and I missed the spiritual God-centerered basis for this story. I would definitely read the other two stories in this series.
We have a trash to treasure artist and a web designer who lock horns the first half dozen times they meet. However, slowly, they begin to make peace. A broken water main and a darling puppy start to bring peace to this rocky relationship. The beautiful backdrop is Alaska.
I enjoyed the funny conversations and the awe inspiring description of the scenery. However, I normally stick with Christian authors and I missed the spiritual God-centerered basis for this story. I would definitely read the other two stories in this series.
February 18, 2019
A sweet read. The writer draws you to Alaska with her descriptions of the scenery. The storyline is touching and the hidden messages revealed along the way keep you reading. Not exciting reading but good steady story. Leading nicely into the next book.
An easy read with lovely insight into relationships , forgiveness and dreams coming true with perservetence over adversity.
Light hearted and fun.
An easy read with lovely insight into relationships , forgiveness and dreams coming true with perservetence over adversity.
Light hearted and fun.
May 16, 2020
I absolutely loved this book!! One of the sweetest stories I have read in a while! The author gave me a love not only for the characters and their love story but for the state of Alaska, one of many i've never seen!! Beautiful!! I love the story of Jemma and Nathaniel. A rough beginning, tough storms they face together while trying to figure out where they stand with one another. I couldn't put it down!! Great!!! My first Cathryn Brown read but certainly not my last!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2021
Jemma Harris inherits a house in Palmer, Alaska and finally can realize her dream of a small business repurposing vintage furniture and textiles. Her new neighbor Nathaniel isn't too pleased by the noise, her business, and even the way she dresses. In spite of that a friendship develops. Can Nathaniel open up for more? This is the first of a series of 3 books about Jemma and her sisters. The author is from Alaska and adds her knowledge of the area to the story.
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