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Blue Ridge Book Club #1
Love, Lacey Donovan
We don’t make sense together. He’s a buttoned-up business man, and I've got a nose ring and full-tatted arm sleeves. My messy bun doesn't match his limousine style.
But I don't think of our differences when he kisses me.
I've always believed romance only lives within the pages of a book, but this ridiculously hot millionaire is making it his mission to prove me wrong.
My heart is sure it wants nothing to do with Beckett. Now if only I could get him off my mind…
Don’t miss out on this steamy romantic comedy set in the small town of Mossy Oak, North Carolina, where you’ll find the best bookshop in the world, a gold-medal winery, and an abundance of book boyfriends.
But I don't think of our differences when he kisses me.
I've always believed romance only lives within the pages of a book, but this ridiculously hot millionaire is making it his mission to prove me wrong.
My heart is sure it wants nothing to do with Beckett. Now if only I could get him off my mind…
Don’t miss out on this steamy romantic comedy set in the small town of Mossy Oak, North Carolina, where you’ll find the best bookshop in the world, a gold-medal winery, and an abundance of book boyfriends.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2022
About the author
Jill Brashear
30 books372 followersJill Brashear is a small-town girl with a kind heart and an abundance of sass. She writes contemporary romance that brings the heat and the laughter. If she’s not at her laptop writing the perfect book boyfriend, she can be found somewhere on the trails of North Carolina with her faithful dog companions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
September 21, 2021
Long Distance Isn't So Bad 😂💥
That phone scene! Oh! My! 🔥🔥🔥
This is a steamy book with some very cute moments, best friends, plenty of book talk, an adorable dog, an impressionable young girl, and the drama of hidden identities / pen names and a stand-in. Oh, and there may also be some unresolved daddy issues and a horrible "joke" gone awry... in a very bad, scary way.
While I own a few Jill Brashear books, this is the first I've cracked open. I really enjoyed it and expect more to follow. As for Lacey and Beckett, they made me laugh and created a sizzling atmosphere. They push and challenge each other in marvelous ways. These are just a few of the reasons I really liked this book.
As for the audio, I liked Emma Wilder. For being the sole narrator, she did a good job with the various voices.
This is the first book in the series and is likely to be standalone. I'm looking forward to what comes next in book two.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
That phone scene! Oh! My! 🔥🔥🔥
This is a steamy book with some very cute moments, best friends, plenty of book talk, an adorable dog, an impressionable young girl, and the drama of hidden identities / pen names and a stand-in. Oh, and there may also be some unresolved daddy issues and a horrible "joke" gone awry... in a very bad, scary way.
While I own a few Jill Brashear books, this is the first I've cracked open. I really enjoyed it and expect more to follow. As for Lacey and Beckett, they made me laugh and created a sizzling atmosphere. They push and challenge each other in marvelous ways. These are just a few of the reasons I really liked this book.
As for the audio, I liked Emma Wilder. For being the sole narrator, she did a good job with the various voices.
This is the first book in the series and is likely to be standalone. I'm looking forward to what comes next in book two.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
October 2, 2020
Lacey finds all of her best boyfriends in books. They keep her company and never leave her no matter what. She can bring them with her when she leaves for a new town (which she does regularly) and she even gets to have them near her at her job at the best bookstore in the world. They are more than enough. That is until she meets Beckett. All of a sudden she has this smart sexy man who reads and has a big secret pursing her. Trying his hardest to prove to her that romance is real outside of books and that they are worth a try.
I loved the way Beckett refuses to give up and keeps trying to break down Lacey's walls. I loved the way Lacey slowly lets him even though her walls are very high. This book is full of feels and insta-love and it totally worth the read.
I loved the way Beckett refuses to give up and keeps trying to break down Lacey's walls. I loved the way Lacey slowly lets him even though her walls are very high. This book is full of feels and insta-love and it totally worth the read.
October 5, 2020
Love, Lacey Donovan is a cute read. Lacey will put a smile on your face. Beckett will make you smile as he falls for Lacey. As secrets come out Beckett changes for the better. You see a different side of him and Lacey helps make him shine. Lacey seems to have a magnet for getting into situations and you will just love her for it. There is such chemistry between Beckett and Lacey that you will love. You won't want to put this one down as you are pulled into the world of Beckett and Lacey.
September 30, 2020
This book is the first I have read from this author, and it will not be the last. I can tell that this is the start of a great series! This was a great opposites attract/hidden secrets book. The chemistry was there but I love that the H had to prove that there was love and romance and that the h did not believe in those. The story kept me intrigued the whole time.
I can't wait to follow the other members of the book club and for each of them to get their HEA. They deserve it!
I can't wait to follow the other members of the book club and for each of them to get their HEA. They deserve it!
September 26, 2020
Wow! I was so in love with these characters I finished the book in one day! Jill writes such an amazing book it takes you on a journey you don't want to finish! Beckett is so my new book boyfriend! Who wouldn't love a nerdy smart romantic who's willing to prove love is real? I definitely recommend this book to everyone! I received an ARC copy of this book and definitely wasn't disappointed!
August 9, 2023
I was so stoked to get an ARC of this from the author. I mean, really, book boyfriends are the bomb and do make regular guys we encounter seem lacking. But isn’t that part of the reason we love romance novels?
I love Lacey Donovan. The book reviews by Lacey give readers insight into Lacey’s sharp mind and witty personality. She has a love affair with matching lingerie sets, books, and dogs. She doesn’t lack for quirks. Scarred by a young heartbreak, she finds her solace in the men between the pages of books. She’s understandably wrapped her broken heart around her like a protective cage and only gives it to fictional characters. She doesn’t get close to people, even the friends she’s made in Mossy Point, and is always prepared to run again. I wonder if some closure from her ex would help. The end of their relationship came via a third party who admittedly didn’t like Lacey. Maybe it would help her to hear it from the horse's mouth so to speak, even all these years later.
I can’t believe her father is making her pay him back for the money he chose to spend on her education. I really wish she’d stood up to him and told him to shove it, even more if we’d got the read that scene.
Lacey’s penchant for authentic, honest living is admirable except when she judges others for their use of pen names or not wanting to keep things private. It’s contradictory to her run away from life when it gets too serious nature. It’s one flaw in her character that both adds to her overall realism and frustrated me into wanting to shake her and tell her to stop judging others for choices she wouldn’t make for herself because she doesn’t walk in their shoes.
This book made me laugh out loud and feel for these characters
I love Beckett’s limericks and Beckett as a character. He is a mystery for sure, but it adds to the fun of his character. He’s determined when he wants something, and he wants Lacey. He’s physically attractive, knows his grammar, and wears glasses. He is why book boyfriends are the best. He’s not afraid to turn a syrupy phrase or pet name to show Lacey how he feels at the same time being stoic and confident with the rest of the world. The revelations about his careers made his character make more sense, especially on an emotional level.
His response when Lacey was drugged at the vineyard is one that would send many a knee quivering. Except for Lacey. Her reaction to the entire incident baffled me. Anger at Beckett for defending her and acceptance of Xan’s denial confused and irritated me.
I wish the issue had been explored more and the culprit found, even if it was Xan. I feel like Lacey should have been angrier about that than some of the things she got irate about. Maybe it’ll come around again in a future book and Lacey’s friend Mia will take them to court.
The secondary characters are all wonderful. I especially enjoyed Beckett’s niece Summer, and after reading a snippet from Beckett’s pov I hope she finds some peace. Pressly is not as predominant, but I am hoping she gets a book with Thatcher soon. Gabi, Kennedy, Mia, and Sloane; the other members of the Blue Ridge Book Club added wisdom and support to Lacey, but Thatcher ultimately came through calling out on her emotions and giving her the push she needed. I would absolutely read books about each of these characters though.
Love, Lacey Donovan was a fun book to read and Jill has quickly become one of my must-read authors.
I love Lacey Donovan. The book reviews by Lacey give readers insight into Lacey’s sharp mind and witty personality. She has a love affair with matching lingerie sets, books, and dogs. She doesn’t lack for quirks. Scarred by a young heartbreak, she finds her solace in the men between the pages of books. She’s understandably wrapped her broken heart around her like a protective cage and only gives it to fictional characters. She doesn’t get close to people, even the friends she’s made in Mossy Point, and is always prepared to run again. I wonder if some closure from her ex would help. The end of their relationship came via a third party who admittedly didn’t like Lacey. Maybe it would help her to hear it from the horse's mouth so to speak, even all these years later.
I can’t believe her father is making her pay him back for the money he chose to spend on her education. I really wish she’d stood up to him and told him to shove it, even more if we’d got the read that scene.
Lacey’s penchant for authentic, honest living is admirable except when she judges others for their use of pen names or not wanting to keep things private. It’s contradictory to her run away from life when it gets too serious nature. It’s one flaw in her character that both adds to her overall realism and frustrated me into wanting to shake her and tell her to stop judging others for choices she wouldn’t make for herself because she doesn’t walk in their shoes.
This book made me laugh out loud and feel for these characters
I love Beckett’s limericks and Beckett as a character. He is a mystery for sure, but it adds to the fun of his character. He’s determined when he wants something, and he wants Lacey. He’s physically attractive, knows his grammar, and wears glasses. He is why book boyfriends are the best. He’s not afraid to turn a syrupy phrase or pet name to show Lacey how he feels at the same time being stoic and confident with the rest of the world. The revelations about his careers made his character make more sense, especially on an emotional level.
His response when Lacey was drugged at the vineyard is one that would send many a knee quivering. Except for Lacey. Her reaction to the entire incident baffled me. Anger at Beckett for defending her and acceptance of Xan’s denial confused and irritated me.
I wish the issue had been explored more and the culprit found, even if it was Xan. I feel like Lacey should have been angrier about that than some of the things she got irate about. Maybe it’ll come around again in a future book and Lacey’s friend Mia will take them to court.
The secondary characters are all wonderful. I especially enjoyed Beckett’s niece Summer, and after reading a snippet from Beckett’s pov I hope she finds some peace. Pressly is not as predominant, but I am hoping she gets a book with Thatcher soon. Gabi, Kennedy, Mia, and Sloane; the other members of the Blue Ridge Book Club added wisdom and support to Lacey, but Thatcher ultimately came through calling out on her emotions and giving her the push she needed. I would absolutely read books about each of these characters though.
Love, Lacey Donovan was a fun book to read and Jill has quickly become one of my must-read authors.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2022
The heroine's selfish and drove me nuts from start to finish. I've never read a less self-aware and naive main character. She turned me off so much I'll probably never read something from this author again.
October 5, 2020
I fell in love with Beckett and Lacey from the first moment they were together on the page. Beckett is the hero we have all dreamed of, and Lacey is the quirky heroine we can't help but root for! Their relationship was full of chemistry, and the sex scenes were off the charts hot.
I can't wait to read all the other books in the series.
I can't wait to read all the other books in the series.
May 19, 2021
The book started out really pretty good for me. I liked the story a lot, but had some issues with some of the writing or way things were written. Like during the steamy moments, there was a lot of non-sex words, I don’t even know how to explain it. Just things that didn’t seem to fit in and keep me in the moment. Like thinking about stuff that had nothing to do with what was actually going on. I actually fast forwarded through a couple of those scenes because of that. And if you know me, I don’t fast forward through those parts. Then, her thoughts and problems with pen names was rude and wrong for any good romance reader to have. There are reasons why people use pen names, and it has nothing to do with the complaints she had. I liked her reviews a lot for awhile, but then towards the end, she reviewed what sounded very similar to some of my favorite authors – Christina Lauren and/or Jana Aston, and gave very bad reviews to them. So that made me dislike that character even more. And I think her issue was ridiculous in the end. So I was loving the book till the end really. I gave it 3 stars, but that was kind of nice really for how many problems I had with it in the end.
Currently Reading
October 15, 2020Love, Lacey Donovan is live! Happy Release Day to me!
October 8, 2020
First of all thank you Jill for the ARC copy.
Moving on to the review, Love, Lacey Donovan is a must read. Previously another reviewer stated that it is a book packed on sweetness, she is not wrong but it is in my opinion what makes the book so great. It’s meant to be a sweet love story of two characters growing together and learning from one another ( what a functional relationship should be like). Lacey our heroine was so easy to connect with, the story overall resonated with me. Mostly because it gave insight to me on how I grew and learned to love my partner. She’s a girl who was afraid to love. All of us have book boyfriends and she depended on them. She has no real connections with people until she meets Beckett our handsome male lead who yes can be a little cocky cuz he knows what he wasn’t but is someone who also makes her feel like loving will be ok and they both help each other grow from their insecurities. I for one don’t find anything the storyline unrealistic just because it is very parallel to my own love story. The book had me laughing and crying and the best part of it is how real Lacey felt to me she loves books and dogs ( Me!) and who doesn’t love a handsome book boyfriend. Over all a wonderful read, but if you do not like the sweetness, and you want just drama or something along those lines, Love, Lacey Donovan is not for you. This book is for those who want to be immersed in a love story and the characters ( an advent reader would enjoy it, there are so many wonderful literary references). One of the best things I found in the book were Beckett’s limericks, funny and quirky. Best part of the book is a secret that’s waiting to be unraveled.
My props to Jill for writing a story that was so captivating that I could not put it down 10/10 stars 🌟.
Moving on to the review, Love, Lacey Donovan is a must read. Previously another reviewer stated that it is a book packed on sweetness, she is not wrong but it is in my opinion what makes the book so great. It’s meant to be a sweet love story of two characters growing together and learning from one another ( what a functional relationship should be like). Lacey our heroine was so easy to connect with, the story overall resonated with me. Mostly because it gave insight to me on how I grew and learned to love my partner. She’s a girl who was afraid to love. All of us have book boyfriends and she depended on them. She has no real connections with people until she meets Beckett our handsome male lead who yes can be a little cocky cuz he knows what he wasn’t but is someone who also makes her feel like loving will be ok and they both help each other grow from their insecurities. I for one don’t find anything the storyline unrealistic just because it is very parallel to my own love story. The book had me laughing and crying and the best part of it is how real Lacey felt to me she loves books and dogs ( Me!) and who doesn’t love a handsome book boyfriend. Over all a wonderful read, but if you do not like the sweetness, and you want just drama or something along those lines, Love, Lacey Donovan is not for you. This book is for those who want to be immersed in a love story and the characters ( an advent reader would enjoy it, there are so many wonderful literary references). One of the best things I found in the book were Beckett’s limericks, funny and quirky. Best part of the book is a secret that’s waiting to be unraveled.
My props to Jill for writing a story that was so captivating that I could not put it down 10/10 stars 🌟.
October 15, 2020
Lacey donovan has always been obsessed with book boy friends. I mean, who wouldn't....they are made flawed yet perfect...they are the man every girl dreams about to meet. In her opinion, man are lacking and she is content to love her book boyfriends alone...
Enters Beckett, who on first encounter with lacey, is hellbent on making her his. And what Beckett wants he gets... well, buddy, this one is going to be a tough one for you.
His limericks, jokes, flirting never seems to work on her...but he is determined.
Lacey has lived a quite life...but now a sexy man, who READS, and very mysterious took a liking to her and all the quiet in her life is erupted.
Will she give Beckett a chance to break down the walls she has made around her heart due to past pain? Or Will the secrets he us hiding from her will further scare her?
*****************
*****
Beckett is the type of characters responsible for us girls to be single...He is damn perfect...good sense of Humour, drop dead gorgeous, and when he loves, he loves with all his heart.
But he was very mysterious which works in our favour...made his character more swoon-worthy.
Lacey was the character who I could relate to completely...she is smart, beautiful and do not fell in the traps of phony man.
Reading this made me laugh so much...some scenes were so hilarious..the author has build a wonderful world with amazing characters.
The chemistry was there from the start between them but I loved that this was not some instant love...they have to proved their love for eachother...the relationship development was at a perfect pace for the book.
I was intrigued from chapter 1 and it was impossible to put it down...
I can't wait to read books of the secondary characters in this book..hope they have their Hea too...
Enters Beckett, who on first encounter with lacey, is hellbent on making her his. And what Beckett wants he gets... well, buddy, this one is going to be a tough one for you.
His limericks, jokes, flirting never seems to work on her...but he is determined.
Lacey has lived a quite life...but now a sexy man, who READS, and very mysterious took a liking to her and all the quiet in her life is erupted.
Will she give Beckett a chance to break down the walls she has made around her heart due to past pain? Or Will the secrets he us hiding from her will further scare her?
*****************
*****
Beckett is the type of characters responsible for us girls to be single...He is damn perfect...good sense of Humour, drop dead gorgeous, and when he loves, he loves with all his heart.
But he was very mysterious which works in our favour...made his character more swoon-worthy.
Lacey was the character who I could relate to completely...she is smart, beautiful and do not fell in the traps of phony man.
Reading this made me laugh so much...some scenes were so hilarious..the author has build a wonderful world with amazing characters.
The chemistry was there from the start between them but I loved that this was not some instant love...they have to proved their love for eachother...the relationship development was at a perfect pace for the book.
I was intrigued from chapter 1 and it was impossible to put it down...
I can't wait to read books of the secondary characters in this book..hope they have their Hea too...
October 31, 2020
Amazon / Universal / Apple / Nook / Kobo / Google
Lacey's book boyfriends never disappoint her. They're sexy. They're perfect. They don't leave. That's why she takes them with her wherever she goes. That's why a real man would never measure up. Then a mysterious gorgeous guy starts pursuing her and Lacey's not sure how to take it. What does he want from her? What's his secret?
This is a fun, cute read. I ended up loving these two together. And I especially loved how Beckett developed, and how perfect he was for Lacey. A definite must read!
ARC via Elle Woods PR for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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October 13, 2020
Love, Lacey Donovan was my first book by Jill Brashear and most definitely will not be my last!
I absolutely loved everything about Lacey and Beckett’s love story. It was a book lover’s perfect read.
Lacey is a drifter, a loner. Staying in one place just long enough to avoid making a connection with anyone. She is an avid reader and dog lover and is lucky to work in a fantastic book store and as a dog walker. She is beautiful and outspoken and despite her personal belief, absolutely like able. Lacey is addicted to fictional love and romance but doesn’t believe it exists in real life.
Beckett is wealthy beyond belief and uber talented. Groomed to take over his family’s business, he also has a secret career as a bestselling romance writer. Beckett is an adorable grump, he is sexy beyond belief and quirky to boot (I love a man who wears silly socks). But my favorite thing about him was his dedication to the task of romancing the pants off of a woman, who believes romance only exists between the pages of a book, and prefers her men to be the figment of an author’s imagination.
Watching Lacey and Beckett fall head over paperback in love, was a journey in patience and understanding and had me glued to my Kindle. Their happily ever after was sexy sweet and well deserved.
Love, Lacey Donovan gets the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval. TBR and Enjoy!
I absolutely loved everything about Lacey and Beckett’s love story. It was a book lover’s perfect read.
Lacey is a drifter, a loner. Staying in one place just long enough to avoid making a connection with anyone. She is an avid reader and dog lover and is lucky to work in a fantastic book store and as a dog walker. She is beautiful and outspoken and despite her personal belief, absolutely like able. Lacey is addicted to fictional love and romance but doesn’t believe it exists in real life.
Beckett is wealthy beyond belief and uber talented. Groomed to take over his family’s business, he also has a secret career as a bestselling romance writer. Beckett is an adorable grump, he is sexy beyond belief and quirky to boot (I love a man who wears silly socks). But my favorite thing about him was his dedication to the task of romancing the pants off of a woman, who believes romance only exists between the pages of a book, and prefers her men to be the figment of an author’s imagination.
Watching Lacey and Beckett fall head over paperback in love, was a journey in patience and understanding and had me glued to my Kindle. Their happily ever after was sexy sweet and well deserved.
Love, Lacey Donovan gets the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval. TBR and Enjoy!
October 12, 2020
“‘Don’t rush. I have a book.’ I sighed. I’d never heard anything sexier.”
This is the story of Lacey, a true bookworm who works in a bookstore and only wants book boyfriends. She meets Beckett and discovers that he is both smart and sexy (and a reader!), but he has some secrets. I couldn’t put this book down! Lacey is such a relatable character, from her writing book reviews to fangirling over her favorite author. She is smart and witty and quirky and I loved it! Reading her story made me smile. And Beckett? He is DEFINITELY book boyfriend material! I loved the development of the characters’ relationship over the chapters. I also really enjoyed Lacey’s friends, and I’m hoping in the future we will see their stories play out. If you love romance and book boyfriends and sweet reads that you don’t want want to put down, check out Love, Lacey Donovan! This was the first book I’ve read by Jill Brashear and it definitely won’t be the last!
I received an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, which does not affect my opinion or the contents of my review.
This is the story of Lacey, a true bookworm who works in a bookstore and only wants book boyfriends. She meets Beckett and discovers that he is both smart and sexy (and a reader!), but he has some secrets. I couldn’t put this book down! Lacey is such a relatable character, from her writing book reviews to fangirling over her favorite author. She is smart and witty and quirky and I loved it! Reading her story made me smile. And Beckett? He is DEFINITELY book boyfriend material! I loved the development of the characters’ relationship over the chapters. I also really enjoyed Lacey’s friends, and I’m hoping in the future we will see their stories play out. If you love romance and book boyfriends and sweet reads that you don’t want want to put down, check out Love, Lacey Donovan! This was the first book I’ve read by Jill Brashear and it definitely won’t be the last!
I received an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, which does not affect my opinion or the contents of my review.
October 7, 2020
Fun and witty rom-com for the book lover.
Lacey is free spirit looking for her place in the world. After leaving home at 18 she has wondered from place to place, never staying long enough to put down any roots. The only constants in her life at her books and her love of dogs. Lacey finds all her best boyfriends in books. Her book boyfriends never disappoint. Working in a bookstore, volunteering at the dog shelter and her dog walking business Lacey seems to be making a home in the Mountains of North Carolina. She is even making friends outside of her books! Things in her life seem to be going well and she is even thinking about putting down roots and staying for more than a year.
That is until she meets Beckett. Suddenly, she has this smart sexy man who reads and has a big secret pursing her. Trying his hardest to prove to her that romance is real outside of books and that they are worth a try.
I loved the way Beckett refuses to give up and keeps trying to break down Lacey's walls. There is such chemistry between Beckett and Lacey that you will love. You won't want to put this one down as you are pulled into the world of Beckett and Lacey. This book is full of feels and insta-love and it totally worth the read.
Lacey is free spirit looking for her place in the world. After leaving home at 18 she has wondered from place to place, never staying long enough to put down any roots. The only constants in her life at her books and her love of dogs. Lacey finds all her best boyfriends in books. Her book boyfriends never disappoint. Working in a bookstore, volunteering at the dog shelter and her dog walking business Lacey seems to be making a home in the Mountains of North Carolina. She is even making friends outside of her books! Things in her life seem to be going well and she is even thinking about putting down roots and staying for more than a year.
That is until she meets Beckett. Suddenly, she has this smart sexy man who reads and has a big secret pursing her. Trying his hardest to prove to her that romance is real outside of books and that they are worth a try.
I loved the way Beckett refuses to give up and keeps trying to break down Lacey's walls. There is such chemistry between Beckett and Lacey that you will love. You won't want to put this one down as you are pulled into the world of Beckett and Lacey. This book is full of feels and insta-love and it totally worth the read.
October 14, 2020
This is Beckett and Lacey’s story. Lacey is forever moving and as it took 7-years to recover form her last broken heart she sticks to the best boyfriends she finds between the pages of a good book. Beckett is sexy and is a big reader, and when he meets Lacey he is determined to break through the barriers around her heart. This is a great realistic story which shows how their relationship grows and develops. This is a well written story which is a sweet read, and has secrets, which all lead to a humorous and entertaining read. I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend for all.
October 6, 2020
You know the old adage "Opposites Attract", well Lacey and Beckett are proof that the saying hasn't been around for centuries for nothing. As far as book boyfriend's go, Beckett checks all the boxes. He is tall dark and dreamy , not to mention uber intelligent and successful. Lacey is a book worm, with an edgy side, that balances multiple jobs. But they have one big thing in common - they both love books! This is a great story that will have you yearning for more from Brashear as the pages come to an end.
October 15, 2020
We all want the fairytale, but what happens when the real world gets in the way? Love, Lacey Donovan has all the markings of a must read for me. Small town, heartwarming romance and hard to resist characters. Brashear proves to be an author after my own heart. Beckett and Lacey find themselves adorably outmatched when it comes to dealing with emotion. From laugh out loud to totally unpredictable, Brashear is an irresistible find.
October 11, 2020
This was a really cute book! I loved Lacey and Beckett! They had amazing chemistry and witty banter!
I sure hope we find out what happened with Pressly and Thatcher!
I sure hope we find out what happened with Pressly and Thatcher!
April 5, 2021
🔹ARC kindly provided from the author for an honest review.🔹
Love, Lacey Donavan is a contemporary romance with a tattooed heroine with a soft spot for books and dogs, and a sexy hero with great abs and the most ridiculous amount of glasses.
In the story we meet Lacey, a woman who strongly believes true love only happens in books, and fight the best she can to not be attached to anyone in a romantic way.
Bennett, our hero, decides he wants Lacey in his life and tries in the most sweet and romantic way to make Lacey take the plunge.
The book was so sweet, I felt like I had to brush my teeth. 😳
Repeatedly.
I like sweet moments in books, but I don’t enjoy a book where everything is sweet and cute, and romantic.
And this book was heavy on the sweet, and cute, and romantic.
I need something to balance the sweetness out and I didn’t get that.
It’s like they say: “Too much sugar is not good for you”.
Lacey did develop as a character, but I am not okay with her not keeping a secret that was entrusted to her. Even though she only wanted what was best for Bennett. In my opinion she had no right to tell.
And I didn’t like how she handled her jealousy. Because to me she didn’t really handle it.
I can follow her line of thought when it comes to being afraid to take a chance on something that can end up being true love. That feeling really shined through her. And the fact that she loved dogs I can relate to as well, but that’s were the my “connection” to Lacey ends. And sadly that’s not enough for me to truly stand behind her and say “Lacey is awesome”.
This is my first introduction to Brashear, and I always love to try new authors.
I just don’t think she is it for me♥️.
Also the “bookish” references were a little over the top when they were thrown at us all the time.
They both love to read.
I get it.
Reading is awesome, but it was said a lot.😅
Read: 01/10/2020
1st rating: 2 stars
Genre/tropes: Contemporary romance
Cover: 3 stars
POV’s: Single -1st person (Lacey)
Will I recommend: No
Love, Lacey Donavan is a contemporary romance with a tattooed heroine with a soft spot for books and dogs, and a sexy hero with great abs and the most ridiculous amount of glasses.
In the story we meet Lacey, a woman who strongly believes true love only happens in books, and fight the best she can to not be attached to anyone in a romantic way.
Bennett, our hero, decides he wants Lacey in his life and tries in the most sweet and romantic way to make Lacey take the plunge.
The book was so sweet, I felt like I had to brush my teeth. 😳
Repeatedly.
I like sweet moments in books, but I don’t enjoy a book where everything is sweet and cute, and romantic.
And this book was heavy on the sweet, and cute, and romantic.
I need something to balance the sweetness out and I didn’t get that.
It’s like they say: “Too much sugar is not good for you”.
Lacey did develop as a character, but I am not okay with her not keeping a secret that was entrusted to her. Even though she only wanted what was best for Bennett. In my opinion she had no right to tell.
And I didn’t like how she handled her jealousy. Because to me she didn’t really handle it.
I can follow her line of thought when it comes to being afraid to take a chance on something that can end up being true love. That feeling really shined through her. And the fact that she loved dogs I can relate to as well, but that’s were the my “connection” to Lacey ends. And sadly that’s not enough for me to truly stand behind her and say “Lacey is awesome”.
This is my first introduction to Brashear, and I always love to try new authors.
I just don’t think she is it for me♥️.
Also the “bookish” references were a little over the top when they were thrown at us all the time.
They both love to read.
I get it.
Reading is awesome, but it was said a lot.😅
Read: 01/10/2020
1st rating: 2 stars
Genre/tropes: Contemporary romance
Cover: 3 stars
POV’s: Single -1st person (Lacey)
Will I recommend: No
Want to Read
January 20, 2026🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/20/2026)! 🎁
June 14, 2021
What a fantastic ending
Loved the way it was written!
Loved the way it was written!
May 9, 2023
**3.5 stars rounded up
Ok, so a little while back, I posted a review about Blue Collar Crush. I didn't love it as a standalone, but it got me so amped up to read the series it was a novella for. It was a prequel for an ARC I have, Sincerely, Thatcher Hayes, but I knew I needed to start this series from the beginning before it hit my Kindle. Well, I didn't start it before it hit my Kindle, but I have flown through the first book in the Blue Ridge Book Club series, Love, Lacey Donovan (and the second book, because I started it on a flight and have already half of it).
So we have a spitfire FMC who doesn't believe in love outside of her romance novels. And then we have Beckett, who is all work and no fun, supposedly. The two are thrown together when Lacey finds the dog Beckett's sister has adopted has destroyed his house and she blames Beckett. She finds him working out to give her a piece of his mind, but all she can think of is she wants a piece of him. Anyways, they end up bonding over books and Lacey finds herself falling for Beckett. And there's a twist I did not see coming, but I'll leave that for you to read and find out.
Anyways, I loved the characters in this book and that each main character of each book in the series is part of a close-knit book club. And Jill Brashear's writing just grabs your attention from the get go and keeps you reined in. And while I did find Lacey's lamenting about how love doesn't exist in real life a bit too much sometimes, I enjoyed how the romance between her and Beckett was fast-paced but also believable and real. They communicated and realized that love comes with ups and down and being vulnerable.
I really liked this book, but I'm loving the second one in the series, XOXO, Valentina. You get a bit of glimpse into what her story is about toward the end of Love, Lacey Donovan and it just leads so well into the second book. I'm flying through these books, so I'll probably be writing a review on XOXO, Valentina by tomorrow!
Ok, so a little while back, I posted a review about Blue Collar Crush. I didn't love it as a standalone, but it got me so amped up to read the series it was a novella for. It was a prequel for an ARC I have, Sincerely, Thatcher Hayes, but I knew I needed to start this series from the beginning before it hit my Kindle. Well, I didn't start it before it hit my Kindle, but I have flown through the first book in the Blue Ridge Book Club series, Love, Lacey Donovan (and the second book, because I started it on a flight and have already half of it).
So we have a spitfire FMC who doesn't believe in love outside of her romance novels. And then we have Beckett, who is all work and no fun, supposedly. The two are thrown together when Lacey finds the dog Beckett's sister has adopted has destroyed his house and she blames Beckett. She finds him working out to give her a piece of his mind, but all she can think of is she wants a piece of him. Anyways, they end up bonding over books and Lacey finds herself falling for Beckett. And there's a twist I did not see coming, but I'll leave that for you to read and find out.
Anyways, I loved the characters in this book and that each main character of each book in the series is part of a close-knit book club. And Jill Brashear's writing just grabs your attention from the get go and keeps you reined in. And while I did find Lacey's lamenting about how love doesn't exist in real life a bit too much sometimes, I enjoyed how the romance between her and Beckett was fast-paced but also believable and real. They communicated and realized that love comes with ups and down and being vulnerable.
I really liked this book, but I'm loving the second one in the series, XOXO, Valentina. You get a bit of glimpse into what her story is about toward the end of Love, Lacey Donovan and it just leads so well into the second book. I'm flying through these books, so I'll probably be writing a review on XOXO, Valentina by tomorrow!
April 2, 2021
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Lacey is a woman who has had to deal with pain in her past. Due to that pain, it has affected any current relationships she has with people. I’m envious of how much she travels but it’s also a little sad. Beckett is a very busy man with some secrets. He’s a stuffed shirt that needs to pop a couple of buttons.
Our author has a woman working in a bookstore who also does book reviews for some of the books they sell. It had me wondering if she read a book so that when Lacey does a review, she puts her own thoughts down. On top of that, Lacey is part of a book club. She does a great job in blending everything together into a story that makes sense and you don’t want to end. If I had to nitpick on something it would be how Lacey treats the books she loves – lack of bookmarks.
Part of what made this story enjoyable was the voice actor, Emma Wilder. I’ve gotten to enjoy the dual narrations of books lately but Ms. Wilder is a good choice. She has a way of changing the tone of her voice so that you will have no trouble picturing the male character. There’s heat that develops between the main characters and she has a way of getting that feeling across to the reader. She also has a way of giving us an idea of the feelings these characters have.
Between the author’s words and Ms. Wilder’s narrations, I’m ready for more of this book club. Ms. Brashear’s story is more than the club and we get to know the people that get together to discuss what we all love – books. If you’re a fan of romance then these ladies are a great pair to get you to find a quiet corner, maybe in a bookstore, and getting to know both Lacey and Beckett – and one certain dog and little girl.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it
Lacey is a woman who has had to deal with pain in her past. Due to that pain, it has affected any current relationships she has with people. I’m envious of how much she travels but it’s also a little sad. Beckett is a very busy man with some secrets. He’s a stuffed shirt that needs to pop a couple of buttons.
Our author has a woman working in a bookstore who also does book reviews for some of the books they sell. It had me wondering if she read a book so that when Lacey does a review, she puts her own thoughts down. On top of that, Lacey is part of a book club. She does a great job in blending everything together into a story that makes sense and you don’t want to end. If I had to nitpick on something it would be how Lacey treats the books she loves – lack of bookmarks.
Part of what made this story enjoyable was the voice actor, Emma Wilder. I’ve gotten to enjoy the dual narrations of books lately but Ms. Wilder is a good choice. She has a way of changing the tone of her voice so that you will have no trouble picturing the male character. There’s heat that develops between the main characters and she has a way of getting that feeling across to the reader. She also has a way of giving us an idea of the feelings these characters have.
Between the author’s words and Ms. Wilder’s narrations, I’m ready for more of this book club. Ms. Brashear’s story is more than the club and we get to know the people that get together to discuss what we all love – books. If you’re a fan of romance then these ladies are a great pair to get you to find a quiet corner, maybe in a bookstore, and getting to know both Lacey and Beckett – and one certain dog and little girl.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it
March 3, 2022
This was such a fun, well written rom-com. Lacey has finally found her home, after years of travelling from place to place. She never truly felt settled. She relied on her books and dogs to keep her content but was never attached to one place. Upon her arrival to the town, Lacey meets Beckett. At first, Beckett comes off as grumpy but he is instantly attracted to Lacey and determined to make her his. Lacey makes him work for it, but as the book progresses she smoothed out his harder edges and they were the perfect couple. This was my first book of Jill Brashear's. I loved her writing style, the fun dialogue between characters, sexy chemistry and small town vibes. I am looking forward to more in this series to come. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Emma Wilder. The book is told is single POV so she carries the entire story on her own and she did a fantastic job. Her voice is entertaining, sweet and sultry. I loved it.
October 16, 2020
Lacey has learnt the hard way that love was nothing but a lie so she is determined to protect her heart from that kind of pain again. Instead she gets all the romance she believes she needs from the books she reads, and she gives the love she has with the animals she walks. She thought she was content with her life until Beckett.
Beckett is a man who comes from an affluent lifestyle and knows what direction his future is supposed to take. He is sweet, swoony and determined to win Lacey’s heart, but he also has a secret that could change everything.
The banter between them is witty, the sparks intense and Beckett’s charm and determination to win Lacey’s heart makes him impossible to resist.
Beckett is a man who comes from an affluent lifestyle and knows what direction his future is supposed to take. He is sweet, swoony and determined to win Lacey’s heart, but he also has a secret that could change everything.
The banter between them is witty, the sparks intense and Beckett’s charm and determination to win Lacey’s heart makes him impossible to resist.
January 24, 2023
Love, lacey Donovan is the first book in the bridge book club series by Jill Brashear.
Lacey works in a book shop, is a member of a book club and is a part time dog walker. She meets Beckett and they are total opposites of each other. She has a nose ring and full tattoo arm sleeves and he is a suit wearing business man. Lacey normally moves around alot but being in mossy Oak and meeting Beckett is changing her mind.
I loved the 2 main characters chemistry and the will they won't they story line and I wanted them to be together.
This book had everything I wanted in a romance novel, 2 main characters whose chemistry is off the chart in a brilliant setting.
I really recommend this and Jill's other books as she really is a brilliant author. I'm excited to read the next part in the series.
🌟I was gifted a copy of the book from the author in exchange for a honest review.
Lacey works in a book shop, is a member of a book club and is a part time dog walker. She meets Beckett and they are total opposites of each other. She has a nose ring and full tattoo arm sleeves and he is a suit wearing business man. Lacey normally moves around alot but being in mossy Oak and meeting Beckett is changing her mind.
I loved the 2 main characters chemistry and the will they won't they story line and I wanted them to be together.
This book had everything I wanted in a romance novel, 2 main characters whose chemistry is off the chart in a brilliant setting.
I really recommend this and Jill's other books as she really is a brilliant author. I'm excited to read the next part in the series.
🌟I was gifted a copy of the book from the author in exchange for a honest review.
April 14, 2024
Thank you to Jill Brashear for allowing me to read a copy of this book. The reviews from Lacey and the mixed media at points throughout this book was such a nice touch. And Beckett's personality was so wholesome, and he was just a perfect match for Lacey. The story was amazing, although I would go into this book with caution because there is a topic that is covered that may be triggering to some readers. I cannot wait to read more from Jill Brashear in the future.
March 22, 2021
I read this book as part of an anthology and was pleasantly surprised. I loved Lacey and Beckett. What a great couple! Lacey’s book reviews scattered through were a great way to get to know her.
I really hope there’s more stories from the book club to come. Especially Thatcher and Pressly.
I really hope there’s more stories from the book club to come. Especially Thatcher and Pressly.
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