Another lighthearted romance with quirky characters! As always witty dialogue and banter, good steady pace. A quick romantic read for the beach

Tawna Fenske is a good author, who always manages to make me laugh. I enjoyed AT THE HEART OF IT. I look forward to reading more books from Tawna.

I’ve always loved Tawna Fenske’s books for the humor she infuses in her work and there was plenty of that in At The Heart Of It, but it was also an extremely sweet albeit crazy, mixed-up romance. A producer of unscripted (aka reality) television scores a show with a self help guru who is her hero, only to find that the man she spent an incredible night with is that woman’s ex-husband. Sounds like an interesting plot twist to a reality television show or perhaps a well written, extremely entertaining, fun, emotional, and sensual romance novel.

Kate Geary and Jonah Porter meet while both are on a weekend away and spend a pretty perfect day together enjoying each other’s company platonically before going their separate ways. So when Kate is in Seattle to nail down the final changes to her latest unscripted television show with Dr. Vivienne Brandt, she is taken off guard when she finds that Vivienne’s ex-husband and the man the network wants to appear on show with her is none other than Jonah, the man she’s had a hard time forgetting since her trip to Oregon.

I enjoyed so much about this story but especially the way Kate and Jonah met and the easy way they feel into a friendship. Being thrust together in an unusual way just added to this intriguing book and the connection between them grew stronger even as they kept telling each other they needed to keep their distance. I honestly felt they had such good intentions but the pull between them was just too much for them to deny. This was a complicated story because while Kate felt loyalty to Jonah, she also had a job to do and was contracted by law to do it as the production company and network saw fit. Kate and Jonah were intelligent, adventurous, and charming and it was satisfying watching them fall in love even when they weren’t ready to admit it. While they were different in many aspects of their lives, they complemented one another nicely. I loved they both were willing to try new things together and worked hard at communicating effectively. There was some weirdness given that Jonah was working with his ex-wife and Kate pretty much idolized her, but even with that they worked through it.

Despite being someone who is not a fan of unscripted (reality) TV at all, Ms. Fenske made me fall in love with these characters and their journey. Romantic, funny, and sexy, At The Heart Of It is another fantastic offering from author Tawna Fenske.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I'd have to say this is my favorite of her Montlake Romances, thus far. It was funny, witty and kept me engaged the whole time. The emotions the characters go through and the things they think about have a very realistic feel similar to real life. I love that! Another good one!

The author Tawna Fenske knows How to pull you into a good book. The opening scene really does have lots of humor to it and it continues throughout the book there a good few twists dick make the book even more enjoyable.
I received an advanced copy of this book for my review.

Here's the thing - I love this authors books and I didn't dislike this one. I just seemed to be in a mood where I kept putting this down and picking up something else.

I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.

I had read another of Fenske's books, Now That It's You, a couple years ago and really enjoyed it. I have to say I wasn't as thrilled about this one's plot but overall I still did enjoy it. This was a solid romance novel for me but wasn't anything that really grabbed me. I liked all of the characters, Kate especially seemed like a very strong woman and I really admired her. The insight into reality television was also interesting and learning about how the show featured in the book was produced. The show itself was an unusual idea that made me curious how that would turn out in real life. Other than that I would say it was pretty standard but still a good book. I would recommend it!

* spoiler alert ** Have you ever what happens after your favorite author finishes their book? After you finish reading their pearls of wisdom and self-help.

Kate is leaving her past in the past. Her last relationship was a dud, but through it she found her mentor and idol: Dr. Viv Brandt: Self-help guru and therapist extraordinaire. While on vacation and living out the ideals from her 3 favorite Brandt books, Kate finds herself pretend married to Jonah.

Back to reality, Kate and Dr. Brandt are putting together a reality TV show based on her books. The higher-ups want to bring Dr. Brandt's husband Joe on as the less polished side. During the meeting of Kate and Dr. Viv in walks Joe--also known as Jonah!! Turns out the marriage of the books is also kaput! Can the show really go on?

I've read the relationship books of the likes of Elizabeth Gilbert and I remember feeling inspired and full of the "get up and go" needed to find the right one. And then the ice bath of shock when I heard her relationship was over.

Was I wrong to follow her words? Would I get the same result? Are ALL relationships doomed??? Those were my honest-to-goodness thoughts when I heard about EG's ending. So to read a story where the leading lady shared my "story line" was even more impactful than I would have thought.

Tawna Fenske is known for fun and quirky characters. Characters who share smoking hot experiences and find what they're made of while also finding out what's out there for them. At The Heart Of It takes these ideas and makes the risks more extreme. But that's what every good relationship should be: taking what's available to you and making the risks worth even more.

Kate is a producer, a "sideline" character in the reality TV business. Jonah is the lovable side bar in his ex-wife's books. They're not the leads in their own lives. But together they inspire you to realize that stepping to the side, watching others take risks, aiding someone else to make something of themselves... none of it will make you a better person. None of it will be the stuff of your dreams.

It's another win from Tawna from me! I loved her use of dual personalities of the story, showing both sides. The language is authentic and the plot is fun. All of it together makes for a truly enjoyable read!

Well written and an enjoyable story. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more by this author.

Kate Geary is determined to do a marvellous job on piloting a reality series featuring Dr. Vivienne Brandt, the woman that has been an inspiration to her in getting her life on track and through the tough times she's had over the years. Unfortunately though, things get complicated when she discovers Jonah Porter -- Vivian's ex and the hot guy she'd recently been on a date with -- will be appearing on the show too. Will Kate take a chance on Jonah, or is her career too important to her to risk getting involved with someone part of the show?

What a wonderful and entertaining read Ms. Fenske has delivered in this book where the heroine has a tough time resisting the hero, even though she knows she has to for the sake of the show; the hero was determined to do anything he could to win over the heroine, even if he has to be on the show to do it; the dialogue was a wonderful combination of intense moments, especially since Jonah's ex is the star of Kate's reality show and playful banter that had me enjoying the moments that Kate and Jonah conversed because they're really good together and shouldn't let anything stand in the way of being together. Will Jonah be able to convince Kate to take a chance on him?

Both the main characters were extremely entertaining and I loved how Kate was determined to resist the hero once she realized how much he meant to the woman that helped her through the toughest time in he life. However, in saying that, I liked that she couldn't resist him for too long because there's so much chemistry between them that's hard to ignore. I also liked the heroine's enthusiasm for her job and that she was willing to do anything to make sure things worked out for the best, even if it wasn't doing great things for her personal life. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is that she was brave enough to finally realize what she wanted out of life. While the hero, I could understand his reasons for wanting to turn down the opportunity to star on the reality series, but I'm glad that he took a chance because he needs to let go of the past so he can have any chance at forever with Kate, if he can convince her to take a chance on him.

Overall, Ms. Fenske has delivered a superb read in this book where the main characters entertained me from start to finish with their back stories, their growing relationship and the obstacles they overcome to be together; the chemistry between this pair was strong and had me liking these two together and had me cheering for their happy ever after; and the ending had me enjoying that these two were willing to fight for their forever after and not let anything stand in the way. Not even the fact that they may be in violation of the contracts they've signed for the show. I would recommend At the Heart of It by Tawna Fenske, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope or books by authors Catherine Bybee, Marina Adair, Miranda Liasson and Jamie Beck.

I have read several books by Mrs Fenske and every one of them have been very original. The first chapter of this book I wasn’t feeling it then the 2nd chapter I was totally hooked and couldn’t put the book down because I wanted to know what happened next.

This book is about Kate and Jonah. Kate is a TV producer who is a huge fan of self help Author. Kate has pitched a reality show that would combine the two. She would produce a show with her favorite author.

Jonah is an Marine whose heart is huge and he will do anything for anyone he loves. He meets Kate when they are both on vacations by theirselves. They hang out on the last day of their vacations and even kiss but don’t exchange numbers.

Kate and Jonah meet again under very odd circumstances but they over come it. I loved this book. This is a dual POV, sweet romance with some language. The characters (all of them) were well developed and you feel like you know them personally.

I received a free copy for an honest review.

3.75 stars-- AT THE HEART OF IT by Tawna Fenske is a stand alone, contemporary adult romance story line focusing on reality TV show producer Kate Geary, and indie book store owner Jonah Porter.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Kate and Jonah) AT THE HEART OF IT follows TV producer Kate Geary as she pitches the next big thing in reality television to her self-help author and marriage counselor Dr. Vivienne Brandt. What Kate never expected were a series of additions and clauses added to the show that included the doctor’s ex-husband, a man Kate met and kissed weeks before. Taken by surprise at the unusual twist in of their circumstances Jonah Porter agrees to participate in his wife’s reality television series never expecting to be betrayed by the woman with whom he would fall in love. What ensues are the secret relationship between Kate and Jonah, and the fall-out when secrets are revealed that directly impact Jonah’s life.

AT THE HEART OF IT is an engaging story with a couple of twists; a professional and personal conflict; and a heroine who is caught between her head and her heart. There are some awkward moments between right and wrong, moments that will eventually lead to the destruction of a growing love. The characters are sassy, spirited, tragic and inspiring; the romance is ill-fated but passionate, and builds upon the potential for heartbreak; the premise is charming and energetic.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

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B&N (Sandy_thereadingcafe) posted

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At the Heart of It by Tasha Fenske was a great read. Kate is producing a reality series with self help guru, Vivienne Brandt. I enjoyed reading Kate and Jonah's story. I absolutely loved the character and the story. I can't wait to read more by Tasha Fenske.

3.5 stars.

A cute, light, fun read. Perfect for the beach. This is the kind of book that makes me think of the romantic comedy movies that I love to watch. I can totally picture my favorite actors/actresses playing Kate and Jonah. But I have to say that Marilyn, the cat, stole the show, or should I say book, for me.

Enjoyable story that Tawna fans will devour and look for more!

Completely heartfelt. I was enthralled from beginning to end. Humorous and an incredible read for those of us that love a fluffy funny romance. I was grinning from ear to ear throughout and found Jonah and Kate's story so adorable. I will definitely be reading again and recommending to friends and family!

Sandy M’s review of At the Heart of It by Tawna Fenske
Contemporary Romance published by Montlake 3 Oct 17

Aside from the humor in her books and the darned great writing, Tawna Fenske is one of those authors who always has original ideas to make a reader stick with her book after book. Then there are those original, funny scenes that immediately endear her characters to you, and you’re off and running for a lighthearted and fun read.


One of those original scenes is up first as this book opens. Kate Geary is a producer of unscripted television – think reality shows. She’s in the throes of a great idea that could really put her on the map among her peers. We meet her when she sits down at the table of a handsome man enjoying his breakfast while reading. Jonah is a bookstore owner, which includes a small eatery and features live music, plus the hope customers might adopt a cat while they’re there. The ensuing conversation is delightful, and you get to know these characters so very well before the story truly takes off. From there they immensely enjoy themselves – play acting, no less! – as they scope out tickets for an afternoon play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. One of the best opening chapters I’ve read in a long time.

After their great time together, Kate and Jonah go back to their respective lives, can’t stop thinking about one another, but try to get on with life. Heading to Seattle to meet with her favorite self-help author about a new reality show, Kate is blindsided when she discovers Jonah is Dr. Vivienne Brandt’s ex-husband. Of course, Jonah is just as blindsided when he finds Kate with his ex. Jonah and Viv had made a name for themselves as a couple writing books during their marriage, but Jonah ended up with a persona he didn’t care for and vowed to never do anything like that again.

After the initial shock wears off, Kate makes her pitch to Viv – and Jonah. The higher-ups want him involved too, and Kate makes promises to ensure a smooth ride for all involved but mostly Jonah. Of course, the more time they spend together, the more their leftover attraction from Oregon grows. They follow where that attraction leads but have to hide the developing romance. Things never go as smoothly as you’d expect, and as secrets from everyone are revealed and unexpected issues for the show crop up, it makes for a tense and tough time, and suddenly Kate is faced with career or love. Will she be able to salvage both, two of the best things she’s ever had in her life?

Jonah and Kate are a charming and intriguing couple, intelligent and strong in their own right. Ms. Fenske does a wonderful job of investing the reader in these characters from the beginning, making admiration and emotion for them grow as the story builds. Be sure to spend time with Jonah and Kate. You will enjoy that time and you’ll find yourself looking for the next Tawna Fenske book to read.

Grade: B+

What's a girl to do when she falls for her reality show star? Bound by contracts and a code of silence she will have to navigate through her show, unscripted feelings and the unexpected script change.

If you are a fan of reality tv and love a happy ending, read this book. Tawna Fenske is a master at crafting stories with depth, humor and the perfect amount of tension.

I really enjoyed At the Heart of It. I loved how strong the connection was between Kate and Jonah. Even though they knew they should be staying away from each other they just couldn't resist. I also really felt how hard things were for Kate, being put in a bad position in her job and the jeopardizes her relationship with Jonah. While I didn't particularly care for Dr. Viv, she was definitely necessary to the story and since she redeemed herself at the end all is well.

Wow. I was a little sad to hit the end of this book. I fell in love with all the characters, not just Kate and Jonah. The chemistry that they have is easily matched by the friendships Kate has with Amy, and even Pete. I even loved the way Kate constantly quoted Viv to Viv.

A beautifully written story with lots of emotions and personalities. I felt like I was in the story while I was reading it. The only reason I didn't finish in one sitting...life wouldn't let me. (Dang that job!).

Thank you NetGalley and Tawna for providing me the opportunity for an advance read. I think you've got another hit on your hands!