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Talk of the Town
In this lighthearted romance filled with small-town humor and high jinks, an unsuspecting real estate agent becomes the wildest dream come true for all the single moms—except the one he wants.
They’re coworkers, friends, and confidants, but Peter Marshal has always pined for a little something more with Noelle Walters. As a widow and a single mom, Noelle prefers to play it safe, and falling for Peter was never part of the plan.
Then again, neither of their plans accounted for the well-meaning but meddling actions of Peter’s sister, who offers him up as their town’s most eligible bachelor in the local moms’ Facebook group. He’s none the wiser about the source of this sudden surge in attention, but he only has eyes for Noelle. And from where she’s standing on the sidelines of Peter’s popularity, it’s getting harder to pretend that she doesn’t see what everyone else sees in her best friend.
With all eyes on them, will Peter and Noelle finally see beyond the hurdles to the happily ever after that’s been there all along?
They’re coworkers, friends, and confidants, but Peter Marshal has always pined for a little something more with Noelle Walters. As a widow and a single mom, Noelle prefers to play it safe, and falling for Peter was never part of the plan.
Then again, neither of their plans accounted for the well-meaning but meddling actions of Peter’s sister, who offers him up as their town’s most eligible bachelor in the local moms’ Facebook group. He’s none the wiser about the source of this sudden surge in attention, but he only has eyes for Noelle. And from where she’s standing on the sidelines of Peter’s popularity, it’s getting harder to pretend that she doesn’t see what everyone else sees in her best friend.
With all eyes on them, will Peter and Noelle finally see beyond the hurdles to the happily ever after that’s been there all along?
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 11, 2023
498 people are currently reading
8254 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bardsley
20 books923 followersJennifer Bardsley believes in friendship, true love, and the everlasting power of books. A graduate of Stanford University, she lives in Edmonds, Washington with her husband and two children. Jennifer’s “I Brake for Moms” column has appeared in The Everett Herald every week since 2012. She also writes Young Adult Paranormal Romance under the pen name Louise Cypress. When she’s not writing books, or camping with her Girl Scout troop, you can find Jennifer walking from her house to the beach every chance she gets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
January 18, 2023
This was such a sweet story! I fell in love with all of the characters so easily.
One of my favorite parts about this book was the way the author set up each chapter with a quick social media thread. I thought this was very clever, and authentic to the modern-day neighborhood experience. These posts were written so well, with language I’ve only seen used on posts like this that I felt like I was scrolling my local NextDoor app. They each tied into Noelle’s life, and served as an interesting plot device.
Noelle’s background was complicated, and I think the author portrayed Noelle’s family through different lenses well. We first understood Noelle’s relationship to them (her mother specifically) through her own thoughts and phone calls, but we received a much clearer picture of her family through the comments of others. This was done subtly at first, and made it easy to empathize with Noelle. I felt for her when she said, “Her upbringing had clawed deep roots in her soul. Jeff had chopped down the weeds but had been unable to rip them out completely.”
Peter seemed a bit underdeveloped to me, but he treated Noelle so sweetly and did so much for Daniel and his nephews that I couldn’t help but love him. I felt like we didn’t get to really understand his emotions and personality like we did with Noelle. I also felt like there were some plot holes with his character development that simply didn’t add up (you’re telling me Vanessa never plopped a furniture catalogue down on his kitchen counter with furniture circled?). I also didn’t buy the reconciliation with his mother at the end, because we only knew the barest details of their relationship.
I also enjoyed the character of Vanessa (hot take, I know). She added dimension to Peter’s character and was willing to admit her reasons for not initially liking Noelle. I respect that.
Overall, this was a hilarious read while also being super sweet and uplifting!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
One of my favorite parts about this book was the way the author set up each chapter with a quick social media thread. I thought this was very clever, and authentic to the modern-day neighborhood experience. These posts were written so well, with language I’ve only seen used on posts like this that I felt like I was scrolling my local NextDoor app. They each tied into Noelle’s life, and served as an interesting plot device.
Noelle’s background was complicated, and I think the author portrayed Noelle’s family through different lenses well. We first understood Noelle’s relationship to them (her mother specifically) through her own thoughts and phone calls, but we received a much clearer picture of her family through the comments of others. This was done subtly at first, and made it easy to empathize with Noelle. I felt for her when she said, “Her upbringing had clawed deep roots in her soul. Jeff had chopped down the weeds but had been unable to rip them out completely.”
Peter seemed a bit underdeveloped to me, but he treated Noelle so sweetly and did so much for Daniel and his nephews that I couldn’t help but love him. I felt like we didn’t get to really understand his emotions and personality like we did with Noelle. I also felt like there were some plot holes with his character development that simply didn’t add up (you’re telling me Vanessa never plopped a furniture catalogue down on his kitchen counter with furniture circled?). I also didn’t buy the reconciliation with his mother at the end, because we only knew the barest details of their relationship.
I also enjoyed the character of Vanessa (hot take, I know). She added dimension to Peter’s character and was willing to admit her reasons for not initially liking Noelle. I respect that.
Overall, this was a hilarious read while also being super sweet and uplifting!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
January 18, 2023
This was such a sweet story! I fell in love with all of the characters so easily.
One of my favorite parts about this book was the way the author set up each chapter with a quick social media thread. I thought this was very clever, and authentic to the modern-day neighborhood experience. These posts were written so well, with language I’ve only seen used on posts like this that I felt like I was scrolling my local NextDoor app. They each tied into Noelle’s life, and served as an interesting plot device.
Noelle’s background was complicated, and I think the author portrayed Noelle’s family through different lenses well. We first understood Noelle’s relationship to them (her mother specifically) through her own thoughts and phone calls, but we received a much clearer picture of her family through the comments of others. This was done subtly at first, and made it easy to empathize with Noelle. I felt for her when she said, “Her upbringing had clawed deep roots in her soul. Jeff had chopped down the weeds but had been unable to rip them out completely.”
Peter seemed a bit underdeveloped to me, but he treated Noelle so sweetly and did so much for Daniel and his nephews that I couldn’t help but love him. I felt like we didn’t get to really understand his emotions and personality like we did with Noelle. I also felt like there were some plot holes with his character development that simply didn’t add up (you’re telling me Vanessa never plopped a furniture catalogue down on his kitchen counter with furniture circled?). I also didn’t buy the reconciliation with his mother at the end, because we only knew the barest details of their relationship.
I also enjoyed the character of Vanessa (hot take, I know). She added dimension to Peter’s character and was willing to admit her reasons for not initially liking Noelle. I respect that.
Overall, this was a hilarious read while also being super sweet and uplifting!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
One of my favorite parts about this book was the way the author set up each chapter with a quick social media thread. I thought this was very clever, and authentic to the modern-day neighborhood experience. These posts were written so well, with language I’ve only seen used on posts like this that I felt like I was scrolling my local NextDoor app. They each tied into Noelle’s life, and served as an interesting plot device.
Noelle’s background was complicated, and I think the author portrayed Noelle’s family through different lenses well. We first understood Noelle’s relationship to them (her mother specifically) through her own thoughts and phone calls, but we received a much clearer picture of her family through the comments of others. This was done subtly at first, and made it easy to empathize with Noelle. I felt for her when she said, “Her upbringing had clawed deep roots in her soul. Jeff had chopped down the weeds but had been unable to rip them out completely.”
Peter seemed a bit underdeveloped to me, but he treated Noelle so sweetly and did so much for Daniel and his nephews that I couldn’t help but love him. I felt like we didn’t get to really understand his emotions and personality like we did with Noelle. I also felt like there were some plot holes with his character development that simply didn’t add up (you’re telling me Vanessa never plopped a furniture catalogue down on his kitchen counter with furniture circled?). I also didn’t buy the reconciliation with his mother at the end, because we only knew the barest details of their relationship.
I also enjoyed the character of Vanessa (hot take, I know). She added dimension to Peter’s character and was willing to admit her reasons for not initially liking Noelle. I respect that.
Overall, this was a hilarious read while also being super sweet and uplifting!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
May 2, 2023
... да изпитваме състрадание към тях, без да позволяваме на налудничавите им идеи да съсипят живота ни. нали? "
Най - точните думи, с които може да се опише Talk at the Town! Април беше задъхан с куп преживявания и времето за четене беше малко.Случи се така, че си избрах книга за малък град, който е толкова близо до Канада, че може да се види Арката на Мира, емблематичната забележителност от американска страната, обозначаваща входа на границата. Постепенно се оказа, че съм в книга, събрала всички ситуации, от които изпадам в изумление - срещата със сноби, манияци и фанатици. Най - любимата ми извадка от менажерията странни типове навсякъде.Онези, които си мислят, че авторитарнато налагане на мнението им, носи ползи. Че на света има една истина - тяхната. Че държат в ръцете си съдбата на всеки член на семейството си. А може да дадат малко ум и на околните.Крайностите - от всякакъв род, сорт и вид - са нещо, което ненавиждам! В Talk of the Town са сервирани доста щедро в менюто. От фейсбук група, която " компетентно " сее съвети, препоръки и мнения. През разговори за екологичното земеделие от хора, които прекалено много вярват на медиите за това как да ядем само яйца от свободни кокошки, да ядем щастливи марули, поливани с чиста дъждовна вода и да пием мляко само ако кравата е пасла метличина на полето.И се стигне до онези родители, изродили децата си у дома,отказваще да им дадат ЕГН, да им поставят ваксина или дори да ги заведат на зъболекар. За да не зависят от системата. Всички онези, които по религиозни или изкривени някакви възгледи отхвърлят лечението в болници и прегледите при лекар, приканват към неплащане на данъци и все още поощряват телесното наказание. Онези, които мразят управлението, не гласувят, но пък в критикуването на всичко са първи. Такива очарователни екземпляри щъкат по божията земя и размахват пръст към целия свят. Аз се чувствам безсилна и възмутена от тях! И много се старая да ги държа на голямо разстояние от себе си. Книгата на Jennifer Barnsley успя да извади на бял свят толкова много обществени прояви на нашето време, че се задъхвах от срещата с тях.
" Лесно е да остана в собствената си дупка на хобит и да не се интересувам с какво си имат работа другите хора. "
Ако това е най- лесния начин да стоим надалеч от токсични хора и общества, да се обединим и да се противопоставим на назадничави идеи е най - полезния подход. Трябва да защитим себе си и жертвите на чуждия произвол, завоалиран като религиозни и политически догми. Поставяйки граници пред техните домогваният.
Страшно се развълнувах от тази книга! И приех всички нейни призиви лично!
Най - точните думи, с които може да се опише Talk at the Town! Април беше задъхан с куп преживявания и времето за четене беше малко.Случи се така, че си избрах книга за малък град, който е толкова близо до Канада, че може да се види Арката на Мира, емблематичната забележителност от американска страната, обозначаваща входа на границата. Постепенно се оказа, че съм в книга, събрала всички ситуации, от които изпадам в изумление - срещата със сноби, манияци и фанатици. Най - любимата ми извадка от менажерията странни типове навсякъде.Онези, които си мислят, че авторитарнато налагане на мнението им, носи ползи. Че на света има една истина - тяхната. Че държат в ръцете си съдбата на всеки член на семейството си. А може да дадат малко ум и на околните.Крайностите - от всякакъв род, сорт и вид - са нещо, което ненавиждам! В Talk of the Town са сервирани доста щедро в менюто. От фейсбук група, която " компетентно " сее съвети, препоръки и мнения. През разговори за екологичното земеделие от хора, които прекалено много вярват на медиите за това как да ядем само яйца от свободни кокошки, да ядем щастливи марули, поливани с чиста дъждовна вода и да пием мляко само ако кравата е пасла метличина на полето.И се стигне до онези родители, изродили децата си у дома,отказваще да им дадат ЕГН, да им поставят ваксина или дори да ги заведат на зъболекар. За да не зависят от системата. Всички онези, които по религиозни или изкривени някакви възгледи отхвърлят лечението в болници и прегледите при лекар, приканват към неплащане на данъци и все още поощряват телесното наказание. Онези, които мразят управлението, не гласувят, но пък в критикуването на всичко са първи. Такива очарователни екземпляри щъкат по божията земя и размахват пръст към целия свят. Аз се чувствам безсилна и възмутена от тях! И много се старая да ги държа на голямо разстояние от себе си. Книгата на Jennifer Barnsley успя да извади на бял свят толкова много обществени прояви на нашето време, че се задъхвах от срещата с тях.
" Лесно е да остана в собствената си дупка на хобит и да не се интересувам с какво си имат работа другите хора. "
Ако това е най- лесния начин да стоим надалеч от токсични хора и общества, да се обединим и да се противопоставим на назадничави идеи е най - полезния подход. Трябва да защитим себе си и жертвите на чуждия произвол, завоалиран като религиозни и политически догми. Поставяйки граници пред техните домогваният.
Страшно се развълнувах от тази книга! И приех всички нейни призиви лично!
January 7, 2023
This was a super sweet story that made me laugh and smile. I really thought the Facebook group chats were neat and something different added in to make the book more fun. I can't wait to see what the author comes up with next and I plan to look into her previous novels. I highly recommend adding TALK OF THE TOWN to your TBR list. Many thanks to @suzyapprovedbooktours, Jennifer Bardsley and Montlake for my gifted ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
June 1, 2024
TITLE: TALK OF THE TOWN
AUTHOR: Jennifer Bardsley
PUB DATE: 04.11.2023 Pre Order Now
The perfect cozy lighthearted romance read. I have to be honest. Life has been tough for me lately having more on my plate than I can handle. Reading has become a true respite ana escape for me. Settling in the evening on my favorite reading chaise, a warm blanket, and a cup of hot tea (with a splash of milk and a sugar cube) along with Beardsley’s latest book, TALK OF THE TOWN, I can’t ask for anything else.
For the past few nights, I have been immersed in Peter and Noelle’s world, a small town where meddling friends and families abound. It is light, fun, heartwarming, a friends to lovers slow burn romance with a very satisfying happy ever after.
A fantastic read, with great characters, and amazing chemistry. Highly recommend!
AUTHOR: Jennifer Bardsley
PUB DATE: 04.11.2023 Pre Order Now
The perfect cozy lighthearted romance read. I have to be honest. Life has been tough for me lately having more on my plate than I can handle. Reading has become a true respite ana escape for me. Settling in the evening on my favorite reading chaise, a warm blanket, and a cup of hot tea (with a splash of milk and a sugar cube) along with Beardsley’s latest book, TALK OF THE TOWN, I can’t ask for anything else.
For the past few nights, I have been immersed in Peter and Noelle’s world, a small town where meddling friends and families abound. It is light, fun, heartwarming, a friends to lovers slow burn romance with a very satisfying happy ever after.
A fantastic read, with great characters, and amazing chemistry. Highly recommend!
March 23, 2023
I finished this book with mixed feelings. The setting is a small town and at the beginning of each chapter is a FB chat group called the Skegiton Moms. The story begins with Vanessa humorously posting her younger brother is still single and listing out places to run into him. Her brother is Peter Marshall. He is a successful real estate agent and clueless why women are showing up to sit with him at breakfast in the diner. He only has eyes for his co-worker Noelle Walters. She has been a widow for three years and has a sweet son who is six. Noelle was raised living off the grid by a paranoid, conservative, fundamentalist father who wants her to return to the farm and help care for he and his wife.
This is more general (women’s) fiction with arc romance. There is some light and fun moments. But when Noelle’s father calls her “a selfish bitch” it was jarring and I almost DNF’d the book. I pressed on and it rode the waves of mean girls antics (led by Vanessa) jealousy, and preachy politics. The negatives were off set by the kind MC’s and other caring towns people. Peter is a lovable golden retriever character who stays his same supportive self. Noelle get an arc learning to set boundaries with her wacko family. The romance only goes as far as kissing and the beginnings of a HEA.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for an ARC and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
This is more general (women’s) fiction with arc romance. There is some light and fun moments. But when Noelle’s father calls her “a selfish bitch” it was jarring and I almost DNF’d the book. I pressed on and it rode the waves of mean girls antics (led by Vanessa) jealousy, and preachy politics. The negatives were off set by the kind MC’s and other caring towns people. Peter is a lovable golden retriever character who stays his same supportive self. Noelle get an arc learning to set boundaries with her wacko family. The romance only goes as far as kissing and the beginnings of a HEA.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for an ARC and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
November 7, 2022
This was a cute story, a slow burn, and for me an easy read.
I think if you had a very strict upbringing like Noelle then you may find this slightly triggering, but it’s a testament to how well the author ties it together. I do think it was realistic too in terms of it taking her a lifetime to rebuild herself after growing up in such control.
I think the Facebook posts were original and a great way to tie in a large character cast.
I think the message of remaining objective regardless of political or religious affiliation was well placed.
My biggest negative would be Peters lack of character development. It didn’t match Noelles, he’s walking around making all this money looking like Henry Cavill….women would likely be interested without a Facebook post. Additionally his climax of the story just kinda falls flat, why is there no furniture in his home? Is he having a hard time committing because of his past trauma with his mom or what? I would have liked a little more from his perspective, but overall very much enjoyed their sweet story.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC, I will read more Jennifer Bardsley in the future.
I think if you had a very strict upbringing like Noelle then you may find this slightly triggering, but it’s a testament to how well the author ties it together. I do think it was realistic too in terms of it taking her a lifetime to rebuild herself after growing up in such control.
I think the Facebook posts were original and a great way to tie in a large character cast.
I think the message of remaining objective regardless of political or religious affiliation was well placed.
My biggest negative would be Peters lack of character development. It didn’t match Noelles, he’s walking around making all this money looking like Henry Cavill….women would likely be interested without a Facebook post. Additionally his climax of the story just kinda falls flat, why is there no furniture in his home? Is he having a hard time committing because of his past trauma with his mom or what? I would have liked a little more from his perspective, but overall very much enjoyed their sweet story.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC, I will read more Jennifer Bardsley in the future.
May 29, 2023
A humorous look at the good and bad of social media on relationships in the real world compounded by the scars of growing up in less-than-ideal circumstances leads this friends-to-lovers, office romance in a small town to be both funny and poignant. Noelle is a resilient person overcoming much hardship including the death of her husband, but she has powered through to be a successful single mom and real estate agent. Peter also is overcoming the scars of a rough youth to become a successful real estate agent who tries to overcompensate by giving back. They are the perfect couple and this story is a fun look at how they discover that very fact! A sweet story that is a nice entertaining read to get away from the real world for a while. The perfect book for those who don't like steam, but rather a sweet romance of finding your way to one another.
March 24, 2023
This was such a sweet and fun small town, single parent, slow burn romance between friends and coworkers! Noelle and Peter have been friends and coworkers for years. Noelle is a single mom to a 6 year old boy who Peter actually coaches. The Skagiton mom Facebook group was a hoot. Especially Vanessa always posting about Peter being single and where to find him if you were interested. I loved how Peter was with Noelle's son and his nephews! Such a great family aspect to the story! I think they had great chemistry and glided from friends to lovers effortlessly. Definitely a cute read!!
October 29, 2022
Slow burn romance about friends/coworkers. Peter and Noelle have been friends and coworkers for years. And now that Peter’s sister is encouraging every single woman in town to date her brother, Noelle realized her feelings for him have changed. But as a widow with a young child and being raised in a very conservative family, she needs to take things slowly.
I enjoyed the romance part of the book, however the family dynamics with Noelle’s parents and sister were painful to read. They don’t think women have a right to work or even speak for themselves. I liked how the book ended for Peter and Noelle, but the family storyline made me uncomfortable. I think that was what the author was going for, to help reinforce a woman’s right to… well, everything. But it was a bit too much for me.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Talk of the Town to come out April 11, 2023.
I enjoyed the romance part of the book, however the family dynamics with Noelle’s parents and sister were painful to read. They don’t think women have a right to work or even speak for themselves. I liked how the book ended for Peter and Noelle, but the family storyline made me uncomfortable. I think that was what the author was going for, to help reinforce a woman’s right to… well, everything. But it was a bit too much for me.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Talk of the Town to come out April 11, 2023.
May 6, 2023
Sweet story, but extremely slow read.
March 26, 2023
Peter Marshal is a prime real estate agent in the small town of Skagiton. He’s also prime real estate himself, a handsome eligible bachelor many of the women in town not so secretly desire. But Peter doesn’t have eyes for just any woman. For months now he’s been pining for his co worker, Noelle Walters. But as a recent widow and single mom, Noelle doesn’t give much time (or much thought) to dating.
Content with having faith in the adage, “good things come to those who wait”, Peter doesn’t mind being Noelle’s friend, relishing their daily coffee “dates” before work. Someone who isn’t so patient though? His outspoken older sister, Vanessa. She wants to see Peter settled down with the right woman. Never shy about voicing her opinion, Vanessa frequently posts about her brother on the virtual water cooler of Skagiton, a local moms Facebook group. As the eligible women in town fawn publicly gush over Peter, he remains in the dark. But as a lurker of the group, the demure Noelle takes note. Is it finally time to move out of the shadows and make a move?
Talk of the Town is a delightful small town romance from author, Jennifer Bardsley. It’s particularly relatable to all women who’ve ever been part of online or even in person gossip, whether it be from the sidelines or front and center. While the fictional Facebook chat contains much comic relief, there is a stronger message at the heart of this story embedded in Noelle’s unusually rigid upbringing. Gently tying this in with the judgment that permeates our current culture could have been a powder keg of a plot device. However, I believe Bardsley successfully walks the line, still creating a sweet story that will give romance readers something to talk about.
Content with having faith in the adage, “good things come to those who wait”, Peter doesn’t mind being Noelle’s friend, relishing their daily coffee “dates” before work. Someone who isn’t so patient though? His outspoken older sister, Vanessa. She wants to see Peter settled down with the right woman. Never shy about voicing her opinion, Vanessa frequently posts about her brother on the virtual water cooler of Skagiton, a local moms Facebook group. As the eligible women in town fawn publicly gush over Peter, he remains in the dark. But as a lurker of the group, the demure Noelle takes note. Is it finally time to move out of the shadows and make a move?
Talk of the Town is a delightful small town romance from author, Jennifer Bardsley. It’s particularly relatable to all women who’ve ever been part of online or even in person gossip, whether it be from the sidelines or front and center. While the fictional Facebook chat contains much comic relief, there is a stronger message at the heart of this story embedded in Noelle’s unusually rigid upbringing. Gently tying this in with the judgment that permeates our current culture could have been a powder keg of a plot device. However, I believe Bardsley successfully walks the line, still creating a sweet story that will give romance readers something to talk about.
June 2, 2023
✨Book Review ✨
Talk of the Town - Jennifer Bardsley
A refreshing, easy-going read set in a small, inter-connected village. A relaxing and enjoyable story perfect for a sunny day!
Peter Marshall, town’s most eligible bachelor, has his eyes on newly-widowed Noelle. His sister, however, has different plans. Vanessa, one of the more vocal members of Skagiton Moms Facebook group, regularly posts about her brother’s relationship status and whereabouts. When random moms begin approaching Peter, he becomes highly confused. All he wants is Noelle but first he has to get Vanessa on board.
This was a relaxing and relatable read that depicts life in a small village where everyone knows everyone. I particularly liked the Facebook posts and comment section that proceeded each paragraph. It was so relatable and exactly like reading a Facebook argument - which you gotta love!
The characters themselves were likeable although I didn’t fall in love with Peter - I wish I had but he didn’t come across sexy enough for me: I like a more morally gray man and Peter is too nice. Noelle was better developed in my opinion but still just too nice! For me, it was the secondary characters that really drew me in - especially on those Facebook posts.
The story itself was bland but easy to read about. There wasn’t much to it but it’s clear this is not a plot-driven book. The writing style was easy enough but I did find myself wanting to skip chunks of the chapters just to get back to those Facebook comments haha.
Overall, if you’re looking for a chilled, small-town village book with sweet characters this would be right up your street. If you’re looking for a plot-heavy book with morally-grey characters (my usual type) maybe give this a miss.
Talk of the Town - Jennifer Bardsley
A refreshing, easy-going read set in a small, inter-connected village. A relaxing and enjoyable story perfect for a sunny day!
Peter Marshall, town’s most eligible bachelor, has his eyes on newly-widowed Noelle. His sister, however, has different plans. Vanessa, one of the more vocal members of Skagiton Moms Facebook group, regularly posts about her brother’s relationship status and whereabouts. When random moms begin approaching Peter, he becomes highly confused. All he wants is Noelle but first he has to get Vanessa on board.
This was a relaxing and relatable read that depicts life in a small village where everyone knows everyone. I particularly liked the Facebook posts and comment section that proceeded each paragraph. It was so relatable and exactly like reading a Facebook argument - which you gotta love!
The characters themselves were likeable although I didn’t fall in love with Peter - I wish I had but he didn’t come across sexy enough for me: I like a more morally gray man and Peter is too nice. Noelle was better developed in my opinion but still just too nice! For me, it was the secondary characters that really drew me in - especially on those Facebook posts.
The story itself was bland but easy to read about. There wasn’t much to it but it’s clear this is not a plot-driven book. The writing style was easy enough but I did find myself wanting to skip chunks of the chapters just to get back to those Facebook comments haha.
Overall, if you’re looking for a chilled, small-town village book with sweet characters this would be right up your street. If you’re looking for a plot-heavy book with morally-grey characters (my usual type) maybe give this a miss.
December 17, 2023
3.5 stars. This book was laugh out loud at times and also had some heavier moments. Peter’s sister, Vanessa, has offered him up as the town’s most eligible bachelor on her Facebook page for local moms. He has no idea and wonders why he’s getting so much attention. He is interested, though, only in Noelle, who is a fellow real estate agent and a widow with a young son. Both have difficult pasts. Peter and Vanessa’s mother left them with no warning when they were kids, and their dad was often absent because of his job as a commercial fisherman. They had to fend for themselves for a big part of their childhood. Noelle was raised by a paranoid conspiracy theorist father and a mother who was completely submissive to him. Because he distrusts the government, she never had a birth certificate or a social security number, and he kicked her out of the house when she began dating Jeff, who was a teacher and, therefore, government scum, according to her father. However, Jeff helped her see that she had a future and a voice, and they got married and built a wonderful life. Her father thought he should still control her life and wanted her to move home after Jeff died, but she stood firm. After Peter and Noelle’s romance blossoms, they find a way to hold fast to the love of the family that respects them while putting up boundaries to the family members that don’t. I have to say that the intensity of their atypical childhoods, especially Noelle’s, was an unexpected part of the story, but I enjoyed the character arc of both learning to overcome it. These more serious aspects were interspersed with funny Facebook posts/comments from the local mom group as well as the antics of quirky characters throughout. Thanks to NetGalley and Montlake Publishers for an advanced digital copy.
December 23, 2022
~ARC Review~
Admittedly, I have a huge place in my heart for small town romances which was one of the stronger aspects of this book. In a small town, everyone knows everyone's business... I can definitely vouch for that being from a small town myself.
The Facebook group infuriated me most of the times because those women were on a whole other level of crazy (but their unwarranted opinions were quite comical sometimes). The actual aspect of including the Facebook posts from that group was a nice touch.
I also really enjoyed reading about Noelle and Peter grow as individuals and together, but especially Noelle. They had come from difficult family upbringings that was then mixed in with this wild Facebook group (which I would have left immediately, but also see why she couldn't). Family doesn't always genuinely "mean well" and I think this book portrayed that clearly.
Now onto the aspects I did not enjoy so much. For one, this was a slooooooowwwwwww burn which is just not for me, I know some people love that but this was by far the absolute epitome of SLOW burn 🐌🐌🐌
Also, I wanted to see even more of Noelle and Peter though, like I said I loved reading about them but I think it lacked some of their relationship development. Finally, usually when there is lots of dialogue (especially with as much as this book had), the book moves faster for me but it definitely dragged despite being an easy, lighter read.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC :)
Admittedly, I have a huge place in my heart for small town romances which was one of the stronger aspects of this book. In a small town, everyone knows everyone's business... I can definitely vouch for that being from a small town myself.
The Facebook group infuriated me most of the times because those women were on a whole other level of crazy (but their unwarranted opinions were quite comical sometimes). The actual aspect of including the Facebook posts from that group was a nice touch.
I also really enjoyed reading about Noelle and Peter grow as individuals and together, but especially Noelle. They had come from difficult family upbringings that was then mixed in with this wild Facebook group (which I would have left immediately, but also see why she couldn't). Family doesn't always genuinely "mean well" and I think this book portrayed that clearly.
Now onto the aspects I did not enjoy so much. For one, this was a slooooooowwwwwww burn which is just not for me, I know some people love that but this was by far the absolute epitome of SLOW burn 🐌🐌🐌
Also, I wanted to see even more of Noelle and Peter though, like I said I loved reading about them but I think it lacked some of their relationship development. Finally, usually when there is lots of dialogue (especially with as much as this book had), the book moves faster for me but it definitely dragged despite being an easy, lighter read.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC :)
May 5, 2023
This was a slow burn romance, and I enjoyed reading it. The two main characters, Noelle and Peter, work together and have liked each other from afar for a few years, but have only remained friends. It takes Noelle to see a couple of posts in a Facebook group she's part of for her to decide to move things forward with Peter and Peter has wanted to be more than friends with Noelle for awhile and finally works up the courage to ask her on a date. I found the posts in the Facebook group a little annoying at first, but then I realized it was just mothers sharing everyday life, problems, and other gripes with each other. Peter is a really likable character who treats everyone with respect, especially Noelle. When he's dating her for a while, he starts to really care for her six year old son, Daniel. He has three nephews of his own, so he's had some practice. Noelle grew up on a farm with a terrible father and a mother who did whatever her husband said. She didn't grow up like other children, so when she married Daniel's father, he helped her to grow up and grow into herself. The community of Skagiton rallies around each other, and it was fun getting to know some of the other characters. I laughed quite a few times and really enjoyed all the side stories. I liked how the book ended and how things worked out for so many of the characters.
November 13, 2022
Talk about a well rounded book. I thoroughly enjoyed Talk of the Town although I believed that Facebook group would be the end of me.
Along the way to finding love with the person right beside you, Noelle and Peter had a lot of self-reflecting to do. Learning how to navigate life will be a complicated task for anyone. Then you add in a crazy online group and “well-meaning” family members, you will need time to make a move towards something you really want. As a widow Noelle had to cope with that loss and reimagine her world with making friends in her town. Her family did her a huge disservice while raising her, which made me so so sad, but she worked through it the best she could.
Peter and his sister Vanessa also had problems with family at a vulnerable age which showed up in a lot of their interactions/maneuvering. Peter seemed to come to terms with his past more so than Vanessa and Noelle as they discuss their upbringing and current lives. It was wonderful to see them open up to one another. Admittedly Vanessa was very close to my crap list until she took a step back. Glad they finally saw the light in each other, well at least Noelle had to open her eyes.
The other characters were hilarious with their non-stop unwanted opinions and shenanigans. Great read
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read
Along the way to finding love with the person right beside you, Noelle and Peter had a lot of self-reflecting to do. Learning how to navigate life will be a complicated task for anyone. Then you add in a crazy online group and “well-meaning” family members, you will need time to make a move towards something you really want. As a widow Noelle had to cope with that loss and reimagine her world with making friends in her town. Her family did her a huge disservice while raising her, which made me so so sad, but she worked through it the best she could.
Peter and his sister Vanessa also had problems with family at a vulnerable age which showed up in a lot of their interactions/maneuvering. Peter seemed to come to terms with his past more so than Vanessa and Noelle as they discuss their upbringing and current lives. It was wonderful to see them open up to one another. Admittedly Vanessa was very close to my crap list until she took a step back. Glad they finally saw the light in each other, well at least Noelle had to open her eyes.
The other characters were hilarious with their non-stop unwanted opinions and shenanigans. Great read
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2023
Books set in small towns are some of my favorites. Having lived in a few small towns, I understand the sense of community that comes with this lifestyle. This rom com is heartwarming and a delight to read.
It's a slow burn, friends to lovers story with a cast of characters who demonstrate how friends support one another through various stages of their lives. Filled with scenes that will make you laugh out loud and you won't be able to turn the pages fast enough. I had a hard time putting this one down. The author does an excellent job of weaving together complicated story lines into a cohesive and loveable relationship. I especially loved the single moms and their dynamic. This trio truly makes for a memorable story.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
It's a slow burn, friends to lovers story with a cast of characters who demonstrate how friends support one another through various stages of their lives. Filled with scenes that will make you laugh out loud and you won't be able to turn the pages fast enough. I had a hard time putting this one down. The author does an excellent job of weaving together complicated story lines into a cohesive and loveable relationship. I especially loved the single moms and their dynamic. This trio truly makes for a memorable story.
I look forward to reading more from this author!
April 12, 2023
Peter is a realtor who has suddenly become the most sought-after bachelor in town thanks to his sister and social media. He would appreciate it a whole lot more if he hadn’t already given his heart to his best friend and co-worker who he isn’t certain is ready for a relationship.
Noelle has been a single mother since her husband passed away and she is focused on her career and her son so she doesn’t have to return to the life she left behind. She is thankful with her friendship with Peter however seeing him pursued by other women has her wondering what if?
Both Noelle and Peter had difficult upbringings which has shaped them into the people they are today. With the support of each other they become the people they are meant to be and find love along the way.
Noelle has been a single mother since her husband passed away and she is focused on her career and her son so she doesn’t have to return to the life she left behind. She is thankful with her friendship with Peter however seeing him pursued by other women has her wondering what if?
Both Noelle and Peter had difficult upbringings which has shaped them into the people they are today. With the support of each other they become the people they are meant to be and find love along the way.
April 30, 2023
I really enjoy Jennifer's books and whenever I hear she has a new release I wag my tail like a happy puppy. This book is big on the small town vibes, like her previous books. I really love this warm and wholesome feeling you get from a close community such as the one she has developed on her books.
I would say that this book is more like woman's fiction rather than romance, as it lacked on that department. However, I loved watching Peter simping over Noelle, but never passing her limits and respecting the fact that she was a widow and wasn't ready yet for something more than friends and colleagues. I also liked our heroine growing a backbone by the end of the book against her family.
It was a sweet story overall and the slow burn is definitely real in this one.
I would say that this book is more like woman's fiction rather than romance, as it lacked on that department. However, I loved watching Peter simping over Noelle, but never passing her limits and respecting the fact that she was a widow and wasn't ready yet for something more than friends and colleagues. I also liked our heroine growing a backbone by the end of the book against her family.
It was a sweet story overall and the slow burn is definitely real in this one.
March 28, 2023
If you like or are looking for a light hearted romance with a small town setting..this is the book for you! Easy to read with relatable and likable characters, “Talk of the Town” provides a good ole feel and is a perfect book for Spring!
It’s a cute romance between two coworkers that start out as friends. I enjoyed the incorporation of the the “Mom’s Facebook Group” conversations as chapters. This added a fun layer to the book and served purpose by providing information relative to the narrative
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours @jenniferbardsleyauthor & @amazonpublishing for my gifted copy and a spot on this tour!
Pub Date: April 11, 2023 ~ Available for pre-order now!
It’s a cute romance between two coworkers that start out as friends. I enjoyed the incorporation of the the “Mom’s Facebook Group” conversations as chapters. This added a fun layer to the book and served purpose by providing information relative to the narrative
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours @jenniferbardsleyauthor & @amazonpublishing for my gifted copy and a spot on this tour!
Pub Date: April 11, 2023 ~ Available for pre-order now!
April 2, 2023
This book was a fun take on a close knit community. A Facebook mom group is where everyone goes for the gossip, the advice, and sometimes even the drama. Noelle doesn’t have time for drama but she likes to lurk in the background. Her real estate business is thriving, her son is growing, and life is getting a bit easier after the passing of her husband. (Off page) Peter, another real estate agent in her office, is kind and she really enjoys her morning coffee with him…but is it too soon to start dating?
The budding relationship between Noelle and Peter was promising and it was definitely my favorite story line. At times I felt that the book didn’t know what it wanted to be -a romance…neighborhood drama…mean PTA mom…? Then you throw in a coffee bar with questionable uniforms for their employees…🥴
My takeaways:
1)Light and fun.
2) Lots of characters.
3) Friends to lovers.
The budding relationship between Noelle and Peter was promising and it was definitely my favorite story line. At times I felt that the book didn’t know what it wanted to be -a romance…neighborhood drama…mean PTA mom…? Then you throw in a coffee bar with questionable uniforms for their employees…🥴
My takeaways:
1)Light and fun.
2) Lots of characters.
3) Friends to lovers.
April 4, 2023
This was a super cute book! It got a little heavier than I expected with Noelles abusive family but I was so proud to see her stand up for herself by the end. Peter was always so understanding of everything and he just loved her so much. I loved the scenes of him bonding with Daniel, they are so cute. I also really enjoyed how it was never a thing with Jeff, Noelle wasn't afraid to bring him up and Peter embraces the fact that Jeff was great and that he's not replacing him.
I received an arc through netgalley.
I received an arc through netgalley.
April 9, 2023
Billed as lighthearted, but the book actually touches,on many volatile social issues and topics.
The base story is good. Pete, an all around good guy, wants Noelle who is still in mourning for her husband. Pete’s sister, Vanessa, advertises him on her FB mom’s page and the drama unfolds.
There is character growth with Noelle finding her ground while Pete makes his intentions known.
The surrounding characters are good and I was glad Phil gets a Taste of his own nastiness.
Noelle and Pete become the toast of the town!
Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the early read.
The base story is good. Pete, an all around good guy, wants Noelle who is still in mourning for her husband. Pete’s sister, Vanessa, advertises him on her FB mom’s page and the drama unfolds.
There is character growth with Noelle finding her ground while Pete makes his intentions known.
The surrounding characters are good and I was glad Phil gets a Taste of his own nastiness.
Noelle and Pete become the toast of the town!
Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the early read.
February 19, 2023
Bardsley's creates a world and characters that are nothing short of charming. Talk of the Town is equal parts funny and heartbreakingly honest about loss, family and finding community. Noelle and Peter will pull you in and wrap their arms around your heart. (Also, if you've ever had to buy a specialty bra, this book is for you. Ha!)
July 7, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
November 16, 2023
Another small town book that I really enjoyed! Poor Peter ! He is good friends with Noelle and wants more, but as a widow and a mom she doesn’t want to go there. His sister takes it upon herself to offer him up on the town’s local mom’s Facebook Group. I have seen a lot of crazy thing on our mom’s page but I have to say that’s one I haven’t seen! Peter is not happy but it might just be what finally pushes Noelle to push past the friend zone!
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Thank you @montlake @berittalksbooks @thephdivabooks and @netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
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Thank you @montlake @berittalksbooks @thephdivabooks and @netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2023
Talk of the Town is the first book that I've ever read by Jennifer Bardsley. The book is told through the point of view of Noelle, Peter and the local Mom's Facebook group.
Peter is a very successful realtor but his sister Vanessa feels like he could be more successful on the dating front. Vanessa decides to make Facebook posts in the local mom's group advertising Peter's schedule. Peter starts getting bombarded with all the single ladies in town but he only has eyes for his fellow realtor, Noelle. Noelle is trying to get her life back on track after dealing with the tragic unexpected death of her husband. She grew up in an ultra conservative household that values the patriarchy and continues to be gaslighted by her family at every turn. Peter and Noelle take the steps to move from friends to something more.
This book was a sooooooooo burn. I felt like they spent more time apart than together. Peter has so many questions about Noelle and her past but would rather ask strangers around town than go to the source itself. His sister was insufferable. She maligns Noelle as soon as she gets to town because she accidently brought cookies with nuts to the school bake sale. She makes fun of her at every turn. She's a bully and didn't ever really apologize. The women in the Facebook group were rabid for the Henry Cavil lookalike, Peter. They were pushy, mean spirited, judgmental and stalker like. Basically, a bunch of Karen's. Noelle's family dynamics aren't something I want to read in a romance. I understand it was used as a device to show Noelle's growth but the gaslighting made me very uncomfortable.
The were some aspects that I enjoyed. The format of having the Facebook posts was an interesting one. Some of the posts were fun and set up what was happening around town. I absolutely love the "nosy neighbor" aspect in a small town romance. I was partial to the author's writing style. It was easy to read and flowed really nicely. Noelle gaining her confidence gradually since the death of her husband and in spite of her difficult upbringing seemed realistic. I think this was just a case of wrong book for this reader.
Thank you to NetGalley, Jennifer Bardsley, and Montlake for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
#netgalley #montlake #talkofthetown
Peter is a very successful realtor but his sister Vanessa feels like he could be more successful on the dating front. Vanessa decides to make Facebook posts in the local mom's group advertising Peter's schedule. Peter starts getting bombarded with all the single ladies in town but he only has eyes for his fellow realtor, Noelle. Noelle is trying to get her life back on track after dealing with the tragic unexpected death of her husband. She grew up in an ultra conservative household that values the patriarchy and continues to be gaslighted by her family at every turn. Peter and Noelle take the steps to move from friends to something more.
This book was a sooooooooo burn. I felt like they spent more time apart than together. Peter has so many questions about Noelle and her past but would rather ask strangers around town than go to the source itself. His sister was insufferable. She maligns Noelle as soon as she gets to town because she accidently brought cookies with nuts to the school bake sale. She makes fun of her at every turn. She's a bully and didn't ever really apologize. The women in the Facebook group were rabid for the Henry Cavil lookalike, Peter. They were pushy, mean spirited, judgmental and stalker like. Basically, a bunch of Karen's. Noelle's family dynamics aren't something I want to read in a romance. I understand it was used as a device to show Noelle's growth but the gaslighting made me very uncomfortable.
The were some aspects that I enjoyed. The format of having the Facebook posts was an interesting one. Some of the posts were fun and set up what was happening around town. I absolutely love the "nosy neighbor" aspect in a small town romance. I was partial to the author's writing style. It was easy to read and flowed really nicely. Noelle gaining her confidence gradually since the death of her husband and in spite of her difficult upbringing seemed realistic. I think this was just a case of wrong book for this reader.
Thank you to NetGalley, Jennifer Bardsley, and Montlake for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
#netgalley #montlake #talkofthetown
March 13, 2023
A delightful romance featuring a heartwarming look at small town life with all of its humorous foibles and charms. A story of unexpected friendships, second chances at love, and great pancakes! Bardsley's effervescent storytelling is a gift!
Jennifer Bardsley has delivered yet another wonderfully sweet and funny romance set in the PNW, this time about young, widowed mother Noelle and the most eligible bachelor in Skagiton, Peter, who just happens to be her co-worker and best friend. When these two realtors realize their true feelings for one another, sparks fly and jealousies simmer in the local Facebook moms' group, where Peter's sister relentlessly plays matchmaker for her handsome bachelor brother. Full of humor and heart!
Jennifer Bardsley has delivered yet another wonderfully sweet and funny romance set in the PNW, this time about young, widowed mother Noelle and the most eligible bachelor in Skagiton, Peter, who just happens to be her co-worker and best friend. When these two realtors realize their true feelings for one another, sparks fly and jealousies simmer in the local Facebook moms' group, where Peter's sister relentlessly plays matchmaker for her handsome bachelor brother. Full of humor and heart!
July 8, 2024
Jennifer Bardsley has written a sweet small town romance that’s sure to put a smile on your face. Her use of social media posts in a mom’s Facebook page throughout the book is brilliant. Anyone who belongs to a similar group is sure to relate. The book’s main characters, Noelle and Peter, are charming and likeable as are several of the supporting characters. While you’ll root for Noelle and Peter to fall in love, you’ll also root for Noelle to overcome her challenging upbringing and find her own voice. Noelle’s past adds a bit of heartbreak to this otherwise uplifting story.
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