Member Reviews

I thoroughly enjoyed Denise Hunter's second book from her Bluebell Inn Romance series, Carolina Breeze. Great setting, plot and characters.
Four and a half stars.

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Release Date: May 19, 2020 📖📖📖📖 Mia is an up and coming star in Hollywood, when a scandal hits she needs somewhere to hide out. Where better than sleepy Bluebell NC where Mia’s grandparents are from? Levi is still dealing with the ramifications of his parents death and keeping tabs on his two younger sisters. The chemistry between Levi and Mia is wonderful. This is a great story that’s light but interesting. I couldn’t put it down and ended up staying up way too late to finish. This book does have a religious undertones but does not come across as preachy. I hope the author plans on writing Graces story in the future! I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

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Denise Hunter takes us back to North Carolina with her second novel in the Bluebell Inn series. This time we get Levi's story. Levi and his sisters inherited the inn when their parents were tragically killed in an accident and it's proving to be almost more than Levi can handle. He was asked by his dying father to take care of his sisters and he's tried to do that, even keeping their precarious financial situation from them.

Then a jilted celebrity shows up for a honeymoon booking without the groom. Life suddenly changes for Levi when he begins to have feelings toward Mia Emerson. Mia reads an old journal from a previous owner, who happens to be her grandmother she never really knew and she and Levi discover there is an old and quite valuable blue diamond necklace that just probably is hidden inside this inn.

Hunter always gives her readers a swoon worthy hero and a find romance with great inspiration. I never grow tired of reading her books and they sit proudly on my shelves.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. The opinion expressed in this review is completely my own.

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The Bluebell Inn series by Denise Hunter is my favorite series by her! Carolina Breeze is #2 in the series, and while it's not crucial to read the books in order, the series is definitely more enjoyable if you do. Reading Carolina Breeze made me want to go back and read Lake Season over again.

I love the characters in this series, and really enjoy keeping up with all the Bennett siblings. In Carolina Breeze, we meet Mia, an actress who shows up at Bluebell Inn on her honeymoon. Alone. Mia and Levi Bennett strike up a friendship, made sweeter since Levi didn't realize that Mia is a famous actress. The two soon discover a mystery that's potential hidden in the inn - a lost diamond necklace. If found, the necklace would solve all of the inn's financial troubles.

I absolutely cannot wait for book three in this series, to see what happens next.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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I really liked May and Levi's story. I really felt like I was right there enjoying the Inn with them. I also liked how Levi could finally face the truth of his life as well as May whose mother had led her to believe the wrong things.
Their coming together tho quick was true and wonderful

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What a joy it is to read a book such as 'Carolina Breeze'. Denise Hunter has created characters and a climate that is heartwarming while being full of conflict that results in growth, Dealing with death, rejection and loss is handled so deftly that one feels edified and full of compassion with the lives of Mia and Levi. I would highly recommend this and look forward to learning outcomes for Grace.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own,

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Carolina Breeze is the second in the Bluebell Inn series by Denise Hunter. The series follows three siblings who take over the family inn after their parents tragically died. They have their challenges running the inn mainly the lack of funds. Levi Bennett takes the burden of the finances not even telling his siblings the problems they are having with the finances. This causes him mental stress.
The female heroine is this story is Mia Emerson, an up and coming actress who comes to the inn as an escape from scandal. All of what happened is untrue but the media is quite ruthless in painting the scarlet letter on her. The week at Bluebell Inn was supposed to be her honeymoon but her finance broke off the engagement earlier.

I like both the characters of Levi and Mia. Levi was not quick to believe the lies about Mia. He went out of his way to protect and in the process fell in love with her. His only shortfall was taking the burden of the inn on himself. I loved Mia. She was a Hollywood star but she was down to earth and did not put on airs. No wonder Levi fell in love with her. She was a such a sweet loving person.

I highly recommend this book and look forward to the next book in the series which I presume will focus on the youngest Bennett sibling.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Carolina Breeze is due to be released on April 19, 2020.

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The love story of Mia and Levi is great. Learning to be love, trust your loved ones and to let go. Easy to read.

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Carolina Breeze by Denise Hunter is my idea of the perfect contemporary romance. I absolutely loved and enjoyed every minute of this story. This book has it all — an excellent plotline that’s highly engaging (I truly could not put this book down); wonderful characters who deal with unique, but relatable conflicts; and, timely themes. This book also employs my most favorite trope ever: the out-of-his-league girl who falls for the small-town guy. I adore this trope, and Ms. Hunter utilizes it perfectly in this story. Carolina Breeze is a home run, and I truly cannot recommend this novel enough.

Mia, the heroine of Carolina Breeze, is the out-of-his-league girl. She really does seem to have it all: a fantastic Hollywood career, money and prestige, and insanely good looks. And, she can take this excellentness one step further because she also has a pretty serious relationship with God. She is the whole package! But, while on the outside Mia seems like she has it all, she really struggles with loneliness, belonging, and allowing herself to trust. From a young girl, it appears everyone uses Mia to get what they want or need, and then dump her like yesterday’s garbage. She longs for a real relationship and a real family all her own, but how can she let down her guard and trust when so many have let her down so badly?

My heart really hurt for Mia. There were several times my mama-heart cried out and I wanted to hug her, especially after Levi’s seeming rejection. My most favorite moment in this story came when Mia pours her heart out to her friend, Sophie. Mia wants so desperately to be someone’s priority. She wants someone who looks at her and thinks, “Mia, you’re worthy of my time and attention.” Sophie compassionately reminds Mia that she already is Someone’s priority and that Someone is the greatest Someone that’s ever been. In a moment of crystal-clear realization, it hits Mia like a ton of bricks — she’s been acting as if God is not enough for her. With this new understanding, Mia is able to gather herself emotionally and is able to reprioritize her life to be more God-centered.

I adore Mia’s character. She’s an out-of-his-league girl for sure, but really she is just like me. I’ve been there before — whiny and lonely, only able to see what I don’t have. Desperately needing to refocus and reprioritize my life to be on God’s path. Needing His forgiveness, and then needing His guidance. What a fantastic and unique way to make the super popular, super pretty girl someone I can relate to! Seriously, Carolina Breeze is an exemplary novel.

Carolina Breeze is an all-around excellent story. The relationship that blooms between Mia and Levi is lovely — it’s sweet, it’s genuine, and it’s a bit steamy! I also love that I got to see more of Molly and Adam from Lake Season. And, the mystery surrounding the Carolina Breeze necklace adds an extra layer of awesomeness to this already awesome story. Carolina Breeze is a story I truly recommend. Add it to your TBR lists, pre-order your copy today, and when it releases in May I hope you devour it with as much gusto as I did.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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This was a great second book in the series by Denise Hunter! I love the inn! It is intriguing how the necklace comes into play in the book. It is also very enlightening on how keeping things from the people you love only makes things harder in the end. Another something to think about is the media and privacy! Sometimes there is just too much information out there, even in the entertainment industry.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing it.

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Last year, I had had the chance to check out the first book in Denise Hunter's Bluebell Inn Romance series- Lake Season. I absolutely loved it--- not only was it one of my favorite reads from 2019, it also pushed Denise Hunter into her rightful place in my top five authors! Needless to say, I was thrilled to check out the second book in the series- Carolina Breeze! If you haven't read the previous book first, I would strongly urge you to do so first... sure, this one can certainly be enjoyed even if you haven't, but it was such a good book that you'll want to read it anyway. Aside from that, it will give you a better understand of the history of the inn and the relationship between the siblings.

In Carolina Breeze, we get to know Levi better. Though certainly not perfect, Levi is the perfect love story leading man... he makes mistakes, but ultimately his primary goal is to protect the women in his life--- including the new woman Mia, an actress seeking solace from tabloid scandal. I loved their love story... so sweet and romantic. Like the previous book, this one featured it's only little mystery too--- this time in the form of a missing diamond necklace. I love the history of old buildings and this idea of things hidden within, and so this aspect really appealed to me as well. I won't give anything away, but it certainly aided in the romance aspect of the story too.

Overall, this was a fantastic book... just as good as the first! The only real downfall was that it had to come to an end. I cannot wait for the next one! If you love a good romance with small town charm, Carolina Breeze is an absolute must read. I loved it!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.

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I love Denise Hunter's books and this cute, fun, mysterious series about authors and books and stories and real people is no exception! I can't wait for book 3!!

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Another fantastic read in the Bluebell Inn Romance series! I loved the first book, Lake Season, and picked up this book right after finishing that one. It made me see Levi in a different light...I can now see why he was sometimes overbearing about his sisters' decisions and actions.

Mia was a new character. Her story was heartbreaking. Even though you'd think she had everything (fame and money), she had to go through a public breakup AND a scandal based on lies that had everyone against her. I loved how Levi wanted to protect her privacy at the inn and didn't pry into her business.

All in all, Carolina Breeze was amazing. I enjoyed it even more than book one and I can't wait for the next book. :D

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

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Hunter writes the best romances! This Bluebell Inn series is fantastic and Levi is my new favorite hero. He is far from perfect in many areas of his life, but he loves well. I also adored Mia. She's been through a lot but continues to search for what gives her life meaning.

I really love this lakeside setting. It is the perfect romance backdrop. Sometimes I don't like books with such small settings - but this has been perfect. I'm also loving the allure of the inn.

This book isn't overtly Christian but is perfectly clean while still having amazing kisses. The romance was amazing because it was very realistic. I can't wait to see what book 3 brings!

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This is my honest review.

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Carolina Breeze is the second book in the Bluebell Inn Romance Series by Dennis Hunter. Her first book Lake Season was wonderful. In fact I couldn't read it fast enough. I thought it one of her best books and I have read many of them. If you are familiar with her work, you know her books have been chosen for Hallmark Movies. In this second book we get to see another side of Levi, the older brother to the sibling trio. The three are running the Bluebell Inn, in memory of their parents they lost recently in an accident. It was always their parents dream to return their home back into an Inn. When I finished this book I still wanted more. I suspect their will be a third and I hope it is about Grace the youngest sister. I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

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I am really enjoying this series by Denise Hunter about a family that operates Bluebell Inn bed and breakfast. The geographical setting feels relaxing. After reading this book, I definitely wished I could visit in real life.
This story line tackles the reality behind the headlines. Getting to know who someone actually is rather than what they appear to be can be a challenge. Assumptions can be made, and that is the basis of this story.
I like the fact that in both books so far she is managing to connect the present story with a past predicament. The characters were memorable, and I liked the fact that the previous characters from book 1 returned again. I look forward to seeing where Denise Hunter goes with this series.

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Carolina Breeze
Denise Hunter
May 19, 2020


Return to the Bluebell Inn for the second in a series of Denise Hunter’s stories about the small town in North Carolina. At one point, the home was a bed and breakfast but when the Bennett’s bought the inn and remodeled it for their home by Bluebell Lake. They raised their three children there and in the midst of remodelling to transform the home back into the original bed and breakfast, they suffered an unfortunate accident on the highway on the outside of town. Their children moved back home and worked hard to continue the construction. The summer before they had opened the inn to their first guests. Although winter was lean and difficult Levi, the oldest sibling, borrowed his way through via credit cards. With spring’s arrival many reservations were being called in. He felt that perhaps they just might pull through. His sisters, Molly and Grace carried on unbeknownst to the financial troubles.
As luck would have it, a couple called to book the honeymoon suite for right after the Memorial Day holiday. They requested that the entire inn be free of guests. They paid for each and every room available. The Bennett sibs were thrilled and worked hard to ready the entire getaway. When the morning came for the couple to arrive, Bennet greeted a lone woman standing by the check-in desk. He felt it best to just let her know that the inn was completely booked for the week. Mia Emerson introduced herself. She let Levi know that she was checking into the reserved suite. Levi was confused by the husband’s absence but thought perhaps he was parking and getting luggage. When Mia confessed that she would be the only guest for the week Levi took her on a tour of the inn and delivered her luggage to her room.
His sisters had peeked through the dining room door to get a glimpse of their guest. When he returned, Levi noticed their excited mood. He couldn’t believe their news. Mia Emerson is a celebrity movie star. She had just split from her fiance and due to problems with another co-star decided to fly to North Carolina to ride out the turmoil that developed in the after-wrap party.
The story centers around Mia’s visit to the inn, her reason for coming to the inn to begin with and her involvement with the Bennett family.
If you have read other works by Denise Hunter, you will be familiar with the warmth that she gives the reader. Her stories tell us of places, people and their families. I have enjoyed many of her books and look forward to reading more of her work. Carolina Breeze is published by Thomas Nelson of HarperCollins Publishing. It will hit the market on May 19, 2020. I appreciate Thomas Nelson for allowing me to read and review this very pleasant continuation to the Bluebell Inn series.

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Carolina Breeze is a great book and follow up to the first in the series. I can't wait for the next!

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Mia is the topic of a scandal and decides to head for the honeymoon that was booked, even though her engagement was broken a few months before. Wanting to connect with her past, as well as get out of town in hopes the paparazzi would find another story has her hastily making the trip to Bluebell Inn. Mia has some hurts she needs to recover, heal and grow from and Levi has to learn what really is his responsibility and to trust. Love both characters as well as seeing Molly, Adam and Grace again, along with their beautiful inn. This story is primarily set in the Bluebell area, with a short visit to California. Easy to get in to and hard to put down. Looking forward to Grace’s story next.
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher through NetGalley. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Carolina Breeze is a refreshing read. Mia escapes show biz in order to refute accusations of something she didn't do. She retreats to Bluebell, NC, a picturesque location. One of the owners, Levi, is just as picturesque. He and Mia grow close and hunt for a hidden treasure that could assure the future of the fiscally problematic inn. Sparks fly at the Bluebell. Hunter's wroting makes one wish this place really did exist.

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