Another wonderful story from Annie Rains! I’m all about sexy firefighters, so Luke lit that fire in me, pun definitely intended! I really liked Brenna, both admiring her for putting her dreams on hold to raise her sister, and feeling sorry for her...for the same reason. It must have been hard to parent Eve and also be her sister. And Eve didn’t make it easy. She was my one pet peeve in the book. Although she’s 18, she’s definitely not an adult in her behavior and I think that behavior was excused instead of her being held accountable for her immaturity.
But Brenna and Luke together were great. I loved the slow burn...okay, that one was unintentional...of their relationship but how they completely clicked and instinctively understood the other. Of course, neither could share the big L in their feelings, but that’s par for most romance couples.
Great cast of secondary characters, especially those we’ve met in previous books. Starting Over at Blueberry Creek is a sweet, charming must-read book.

This is the first book I have read by this author, so it is also the first book I have read in the series. It is a stand-alone book, so there is no reason to hold off reading this one to read the others first. This is a well-written small town romance (one of my favorite sub-genres).

Brenna was away at college when her parents were killed in a tragic accident, so she put her life on hold to come home and take care of her sister, Eve. She has put her own dreams on hold to allow her sister to grow up in their hometown, while Brenna runs the family catering business to make ends meet. Brenna dreams of going away to college to become a teacher, and wants Eve to go to college; the problem is that Eve wants nothing more than to follow in her father’s footsteps to be a firefighter. Eve doesn’t need Brenna as much as she once did, and they are struggling to regain their sisterly relationship after Brenna functioned for years in the role of parent.

Luke is Brenna’s neighbor, an eligible bachelor, and the acting fire chief. Luke and Brenna are trying to avoid each other and ignore their attraction and losing the battle. Can Brenna have Luke and keep her dream of going away to school and becoming a teacher?

I appreciated the sweet love story in the small town setting, and watching the characters heal their hearts after tragedy has touched both of their lives. A nice romance always makes for a great escape, and this one delivers! I would rate this a 3.5 stars if I was able to, but half stars aren’t an option - this is closer to 4 stars for me, so 4 stars it is!

I really enjoyed the next installment in the sweet water springs series. This can be read as a stand alone, but it was nice to re-visit old characters. This is a sweet love story and I look forward to reading more in the series.

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

Starting Over at Blueberry Creek is the fourth book in the Sweetwater Springs series, but this was my first Annie Rains book. I can confidently say it will definitely not be my last! I really enjoyed the slow burn friends to lovers romance and her style of writing.

Brenna McConnell is doing her best to adapt to where she is in her life now. Years earlier her life was put on hold due to the death of her parents. She returned home to care for her younger sister, Eve, but now that Eve has turned 18 and is technically an adult, Brenna is having trouble just being her sister again.

Luke Marini is doing what he's always wanted to, working as a firefighter, but he's also trying to start over. He's moved into a new house, working at the firehouse and just trying to live his life. One thing he's not up for is talking about his past. For him, that's something he'd prefer to leave right where it is.

When Brenna decides to introduce herself to her new neighbor, who happens to be Luke, she wasn't expecting the sparks that flew between them. While they spend time together, they agree that things shouldn't progress past friendship, but is that really what is going to happen?! There are outside complications that cause some trouble for the couple as well.

This was a wonderful small-town romance that had everything you'd want. Great small businesses, wonderful townsfolk and there's always some drama! I enjoyed both Luke and Brenna's characters. They were flawed, real and relateable which only added to the story for me. I'm looking forward to more from this author!

First time reading any of this series and found it a lovely easy quick read. It reads easily as a stand alone. Sweet romance and family oriented book. The cover gives an adequate book description. Characters are likeable but I'm sure you'll agree Brenna needs to keep her cool a little better. She 'flies off the handle' a lot!! Good women's fiction for a feel good book.
I received this book as a complimentary copy for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed are my own. Thanks to the author,publisher,and NetGalley for the ARC.

I was going to keep review copies out of here but I wanted to make sure I got some things up in a timely manner! I was so excited to head back to Sweetwater Springs with the next installment! I’m such a huge fan of this setting and Annie Rains’ writing. This story centers around Brenna, who owns the local catering company and is acting as guardian to her younger sister, and her neighbor Luke, a firefighter.

I did like the romance but for some reason it didn’t fully connect with me for a while. I liked that they tried to keep it slow and recognize that it might not be the right time for a serious relationship, but some of the things that they had problems with annoyed me. Brenna was constantly getting riled up about her sister and trying to balance Luke as a firefighter and Eve’s boss, Eve being a firefighter in general, etc… I did LOVE watching Luke grow into his position as acting fire chief, as well as make friends around town. It was sweet to see their little guys night out and him finally feeling like Sweetwater Springs was his home.

On that note, I do wish this felt a little more like the Sweetwater Springs setting; for some reason it didn’t have the same vibes as the previous books, with some of the shops I knew and loved. There were crossover characters, of course, and a few nods to the town I love, but I honestly kept forgetting which small town I was reading about. It took about 70% of the way through the book for me to feel like it was Sweetwater Springs.

Some of the side plots were definitely predictable, but they made me happy in the end. The end of the book was mostly enjoyable, despite Brenna being a bit of an idiot again. <spoiler> Luke was pretty clear about what he wanted and then three pages later she was saying he didn’t want to stay with her??? what. She also yelled at him for letting Eve go in and fight the fire… which is literally her job, that she claimed she was okay with? So much for that. I know the heat of the moment is harder but you have to at least understand and respect why certain decisions on the job would be made. <end spoiler> She was just so reactionary and overprotective that her actions frustrated me a LOT, especially as they danced back and forth at the end. Overall though, I’m really pleased with where all the characters were at the end of the book, as well as some of the side characters and stories wrapping up!

Brenna and Luke are both at a crossroads in life. Starting over and finding the path that best fits the person they are now, not necessarily the dreams they once had for themselves. Believable characters who struggle with making hard choices, and yet are able to enjoy the simple pleasures that life can give us make this a great read.

Great addition to the series. Well written romance. Great plot, believable characters and a beautiful setting. I received an arc from the publisher and this is my unbiased review.

Luke bought the little house on Blueberry Creek when he moved over to join the Sweetwater Springs Fire Department. He’s been there working hard at his job, staying removed from the neighbors, and generally just keeping his head down. Involvement, whether of the friendship or romantic kind just isn’t for him, and his relocation to Sweetwater Springs was partly egged on by a relationship and living situation that ended badly. Now he’s the proud owner of a rather burn-marked but cheerful rescued dog, and a traumatic past.

Brenna has spent the past years, since her parents were killed in a roadside accident, raising her little sister, while keeping her mother’s business, A Taste of Heaven, going. With only one year left to get her degree and dream job of teacher, she’s hoping that Eve will take some interest in any one of the multitude of college brochures and information she’s been collecting, and give up her attitude and dream of becoming a firefighter. She’s noticed the new neighbor, spoken few words to him, but thinks that it’s the right time to deliver a box of “welcome’ doughnuts, a tradition she inherited from her mother, and one she won’t give up.

If you’re paying attention: you’ll know that Brenna and Luke are destined for couple hood – and that her struggles with her sister Eve, her own dreams to teach, and all of the associated dangers with firefighting, as well as cuteness from rescued animals will be found here. But the progression of Luke and Brenna’s relationship is only part of the magic here. Rains has an amazing way of making you a part of the story and community -highlighting friendships, issues, community and that small-town vibe where everyone “knows” everyone else, and for the most part are there to support, cheer on and even protect one another, even as they welcome in the newcomers who ‘prove’ their worth. With returning moments in a place that has come to be familiar, and favorites from earlier series in offering friendship, advice, laughs and some serious fun, the story is loaded with the sense that Sweetwater Springs is a place of hope, healing and love – and you never want to leave. If you’ve never read an Annie Rains title – grab them now. I’ve read her books since her debut in 2015 – and have yet to have a title that doesn’t leave me smiling – after it all ends.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at < a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-aDd /” > <a> I am, Indeed </a>

This is the 4th book in the Sweetwater Springs series. This book can be read as a standalone. This was my first book by Annie Rains and I really enjoyed it. I think I'll go back and read the rest in the series.Brenna and Luke are neighbors. Brenna lives in her childhood home and Luke moved in next door. Brenna owns a catering business and Luke is a firefighter. Brenna's parents died in an accident when she was in her last year of college and she dropped everything to care for her sister Eve. Now that Eve is an adult she wants to be a firefighter like her father was and that causes a rift between Brenna and Eve. Brenna took over the catering from her mother, but really wants to be a teacher.

Luke and Brenna become friendly, but decide they should stay away from each other since they have feelings for each other and don't think it would work between them. However they keep bumping into each other. Since they keep bumping into each other they decide to have a fling. Does it stay a fling? Does it become more?

Both Luke and Brenna have growing experiences through this book, and there are there for each other to help each other with their growing. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it!

#StartingOveratBlueberryCreek #NetGalley
** I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

After reading this book all I can say is wow! Annie Rains once again kept me at the edge of my seat wishing I could read faster just so I could find out what happens next that much sooner. This book made me feel so many emotions and I can't wait to see who the next book will be about in this wonderful series!

Starting Over at Blueberry Creek just became my favorite story in the 'Sweetwater Springs' series. It has so much heart and these characters are so lovable. This is an enemies to lovers romance between a firefighter new to town and a local caterer who happens to be his neighbor.

Luke is new in town and has taken over as the new chief. He is level headed and keeps to himself. He notices his neighbor and has been trying to stay away but when she knocks on his door with baked treats he can't resist.

Brenna is a local caterer who is liked by everyone. Everyone in town who is a local knows how much she and her sister Eve have been through. Her parents died when she was a teenager so she had to grow up fast.

As soon as Luke and Brenna meet, there is an instant attraction that they try to fight. Both don't want to be in a relationship because they have been burned in the past. They don't get along at first but learn that their differences pull them closer together.

I am a huge fan of Annie Rains and was so excited to read another book in her 'Sweetwater Springs' series. I started reading Starting Over at Blueberry Creek and I was hooked. This story pulled at my heartstrings because both of the characters have been through so much in their past and have found a way to push through. Although they keep their past in the back burner, they haven't let go. And it's beautiful to see their journey and personal growth throughout the book.

I give Starting Over at Blueberry Creek 5 stars. It's a beautiful romance about two neighbors finding love even when they weren't looking for it. Annie Rains continues to dazzle with her delicate and charming writing and fans of her books will not be disappointed.

Starting Over at Blueberry Creek by Annie Rains is a small town romance novel that offers readers excellent character development and family dynamics. The main characters Brenna and Luke are next door neighbors with lots of chemistry--but they are both dealing with their own past struggles that impact their present. Annie Rains gives readers a lovely small town romance with slow developing relationship and complex dynamics while adding a little heat. Overall, the novel is a lovely and sweet read.

I can't believe we are already on book #4. Where has the time gone? I think that happens with a series that you enjoy. They seem to be both flyings by yet seem to take forever for the next one to be out.

I've really enjoyed the Sweetwater Springs series so far. Each book gets better and better. Sharing more of the wonderful people in the town.

Up this time we have Luke and Brenna.

What can I say about Luke other than he is such a great guy! He's the type of person you want to know. Good to his neighbors (this might be funnier when you read the story) and those who are around him.

Shortly after coming to town he's thrown into the deep end and has to take on some responsivities he wasn't expecting and handled it perfectly. This is a man who doesn't let fear and worry hold him back. He does what he has to and gets the job done.

He's also a sweet guy who's lonely and needs friends. You'll love his friends and will want their stories soon.

Where Luke is easy going and has his life on a good track Breena is a mess. She's as tight as a spring. You can't help but feel sorry for all she's gone through. It hasn't been easy and she's done a fine job of taking care of all that needed taking care of which includes taking care of her sister Eve.

I have not read a more unlikeable character in all the time I've read. And I'm including killers. I would have buried the body behind the house. Okay, maybe I wouldn't have gone that far but the second she turned 18 she'd be on her own. The sad thing is the author gave her exactly what she wanted in life so hers is pretty good even though she treats people horrible and is very disrespectful.

If you can overlook Eve (which is hard) you'll love how Breena and Luke's romance beginnings. Their falling in love is so sweet and you want nothing but happiness for them. It takes a while for them to really figure out what they really wanted in life but when they do it works perfectly for them.

Another great story to add to the Sweetwater Springs series. Both the main characters and their families have suffered due to fires and accidents. This is a story of how they react to their circumstances, and work to promote and accept change in their lives. Looking forward to the next story in the series!

It was disappointing to advertise a free short story was included, when in fact it wasn't.

I received a free ARC eBook from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinions.

I loved this book! It's a sweet small town romance that hooks you on the first page. I would love to live in Sweetwater Springs. You have to read this book, it's the perfect escape from the world book. Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this delightful book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Wow, I had no idea I could read a book so fast! I started this new story with enthusiasm and eagerness, as I do with any Annie Rains book. She is truly a masterful storyteller and one who has created a town I desperately wish were real. So I could move there. Right now. I dove into this book and didn't come up for air until the last page was read. It captured my attention from the first page and didn't let go. The firefighter hero and the conflicted baker/teacher heroine were such a cute couple, seemingly polar opposites and yet they just fit. Pair that with a cast of secondary characters that will make you laugh and have you feeling all sorts of strong emotions, and you have what I call an Annie Rains Classic.

Ever since she had to drop out of college to raise her younger sister, after their parents died in a tragic accident, Brenna McConnell has made it her mission to keep her sister safe and make sure she has a positive future. To Brenna, this means going to college and staying far, far away from anything related to the firefighting dream her sister is so focused on. When Brenna meets her neighbor, Luke Marini, who also happens to be the new Assistant Fire Chief in Sweetwater Springs, she immediately feels a spark. But she doesn't have time for romance and neither does he, especially since it would make for an awkward situation if things went south. Determined to keep their distance, Brenna's sister throws a wrench in things when she abruptly moves out upon getting hired at the fire station by none other than Luke. Luke is supportive and that infuriates Brenna. As sparks fly and tension mounts, their restraint wears thing and romance begins to blossom. But will it be enough to break through the walls these two have built around their tender hearts?

I loved the relationship between Brenna and Luke! They're the epitome of an "opposites attract" couple, and as the story progressed, you could see why it meshed really well. Brenna was anxious all the time, struggling to be both mother and sister to Eve, her younger sister, and she was running her mother's catering business when what she really wanted to do was be a teacher. Meanwhile, Luke is living his dream as a fire chief, struggling to work through his heartache from a past relationship, and gaining confidence as things in his life begin to fall into place. They were good for each other - Brenna taught Luke how to love again and Luke taught Brenna how to follow her dreams and let others follow theirs. It was a very symbiotic relationship, and it was clearly one they both desperately needed. Now, my only issue with this story was really just one character - Eve. She was 18 years old, so obviously rebellious, impulsive, and a brat. Teenagers are awful - I should know, I was one once. The way she treated Brenna was disappointing, and I didn't buy the whole switcheroo later in the story when she suddenly becomes mature and appreciates Brenna. Couldn't stand Eve, and I'm sorry, Annie, but if you make a romance for her, it's going to be a struggle for me to read. But if anyone can make me love a character I don't like, it would be you!

Eager to read more about the people in Sweetwater Springs! I can never get enough of this dream-like town.

**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**

Annie Rains has another charming success with this book. This book caught my interest from the start and held it until the end which to me is the sign of a good story. It's got romance, a sexy male firefighter, humor, and real emotions.. Don't miss this one..

Starting Over at Blueberry Creek by Annie Raines is terrific story from Sweetwater Springs. I read this story in one day as I could not put it down. The main characters are Brenna and Luke and I enjoyed their connection. Brenna owns a catering business and Luke is a firefighter. Oh yes, they are also next-door neighbors. These two bring a bit of baggage to their relationship, but in the end, they get their HEA. The story is very engaging with humor, drama, and romance. I really enjoyed it and recommend it for an enjoyable story. I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley for my honest review.

I picked up Blueberry Creek after reading a trigger inducing thriller and it was the PERFECT recovery book. I just really enjoy the town of Sweetwater Springs and the overlapping characters from the previous books. It was so fun to see Nate and Chris again after reading A Christmas Wish. You can absolutely read this as a stand alone book, but it just enriches the story to have a previous relationship with supporting characters. The world that Annie is creating here is warm and comforting and while their are struggles in the story, the HEA is so rewarding. Starting Over at Blueberry Creek is a closed door love story perfect for fans of a cozy read on a relaxing day. Here's hoping for the Hallmark movie of this one.