3.5 stars

This is the first book I've read by this author, and it's clear it's not her first foray into writing. With that said, the amount of times characters are referred to by name in dialogue drove me to distraction. People do not use each other's name in every other sentence when having a conversation. ("It's good to see you, Dee. You too, Mom. I've been wondering, Dee. What's that, mom?" Not word for word, but that type of thing)

Quibble aside, the first 50% of the book had me riveted to the pages. I liked the premise and I loved that Aspen and her mom had such a positive relationship. Aspen's character and her reluctance to become involved with a man, her determination to make something of herself, by herself, were both believable and inspiring.

Then we met Ryker. He's a self-entitled a$$hole. He wasn't painted that way, but that was my opinion of him. What he did wasn't chivalous, it was him being a typical alpha-hole and not being able to accept a woman is more than capable of making her own way in the world.

Sure, he wore her down, and I'm sure others will be gaga over him, but he seriously dragged down the story for me.

I did like the pie baking and the hotel aspects. Kudos for having a bunny as a pet too.

Copy received via NetGalley

This is my first book by this author, and I wasn’t disappointed! Aspen and Ryker managed to take me on a ride full of humor, some angst, anger and their stubbornness, and happiness when they finally found their way. While Ryker was a tad heavy-handed with his determination to help Aspen, Aspen was just as bullheaded in her insistence that she absolutely did not need a man for anything. Witnessing their ups and downs and having to eat their words when they realized that support and help from a partner isn’t the same as using someone made for some very entertaining times for me. I’d definitely read more from this author!