Member Reviews
If you are looking for a cute, sweet, fish-out-of-water romance set in a quirky small town beachside/island set up, then this book is perfect for you!
Presley plans a getaway to a remote lodge on an island in Michigan with her boyfriend, but her plans with him change and she ends up going solo. When she arrives, she quickly becomes close with the family running the lodge, including Beckett, and begins to question her mapped-out life plan as she falls in love with the quirky town of Smile, Get Lost Lodge, and the family that runs it.
This was an easy, escapist read. I loved the town and its unique little elements and characters, and the lodge in development angle gave a new and intriguing background to a romance book.
I didn’t love Presley; I found some of her actions and dialogue a little juvenile. I also thought the romance development happened super fast and some of their relationship felt over the top.
Overall, a sweet read. Note - while there is some sizzle, this is a closed-door romance. There are a few curse words.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my opinion.
Love, Naturally by Sophie Sullivan is a sweet story told from alternating points of view of the lead characters, Presley and Beckett. Freshly dumped by her boyfriend whom she thought was 'the one', Presley takes a solo vacation that was supposed to be for the two of them. The vacation catered to his likes, being outdoors, fishing, hiking, etc. But rather than waste the trip, Presley decides to press on and meets Beckett, a 'hot mountain man' who is part of the family that owns the lodge where she is staying. The two are drawn to each other and the rest of the story explores them becoming good friends and learning to appreciate each other and their differences. The story is entertaining with lots of good, clean fun.
This author's books have been fully hit or miss for me and while I decided to give her books another try, I think this may have been my last.
The book was enjoyable! It was a quick read with a sweet romance (even if it was a bit insta lovey). The side characters were fun and I enjoyed getting glimpses of their lives. I feel like the conflicts were a little odd? Not really far fetched, but just not interesting or really complicated.
I think that this would be a good romance for people who enjoy sweet, clean love stories with a very predictable happy ending.
2.5 stars rounded up
OMG this was so cute! I'm always hesitant about books where they fall in such a short amount of time but this one did it so well imo!
I, like Presley at the beginning of this book, am not a hiker/fisher/outdoors person. But y'all, the way I wanted to book my stay at the lodge! I don't know whether it was the descriptions of the setting itself or the Keller family and their obvious love for and loyalty to each other, but I was ready to pack my bags. The cast of characters was wonderful and I can't wait to see more of them, the Kellers especially. And obviously Beckett and Presley. Because they were so cute and the way Beckett was so gone so quick- whew!
Just a lighthearted, feel-good, fun romance that you should read ASAP!
⭐ Overall Rating: 3.5 / 5 stars | 🌶️ Spicy Rating: 0 / 5
📚 Tropes: fish out of water, rebound relationship, vacation romance, cinnamon roll hero, forced proximity
📚BOOK REVIEW 📚
Love, Naturally (Standalone) | Sophie Sullivan
📖 Format: eARC (Netgalley)
⚠️Content Warnings: None
___________
👩🏻FMC: Presley is a city girl from Great Falls, MI who enjoys all things luxury. Within a 24 hour span, she finds herself broken up with her boyfriend of 8 months (with whom she thought she was happy) and traveling via plane/boat to a wilderness lodge on her own. With the help of the lodge’s owners and guests, Presley goes on a journey to try new things and get start experiencing life. I really enjoyed Presley’s journey, but I would have liked to have seen a little more fire from her character. I kind of feel like her fate happened to her rather than her taking control of her life.
👨🏻MMC: I was expecting a grumpy MMC (maybe because the nature boy in fish out of water stories usually are grumpy), but that definitely wasn’t Beckett. Beckett was a total sweetheart, and I really enjoyed that, even if it wasn’t what I expected.
⚡CHEMISTRY: I would have liked a little more oomph in the chemistry between Beckett and Presley. I prefer open-door romances, and I do think this story could have benefited from some spice.
🏘️ATMOSPHERE: The setting was by far my favorite part of the book. I spent every summer of my childhood visiting Mackinaw City/Island, so having the story take place nearby hit me right in the nostalgia. Beckett’s family, the guests at the lodge, and the inhabitants of Smile were endearing and entertaining to read about.
📺PLOT: This was a character-driven narrative (rather than plot-driven).
👍🏻OVERALL: I unfortunately wasn’t blown away by this book. It had good bones, but I think the story would have lent itself better to a dual 1st person POV. This is definitely not a bad read whatsoever, just not the best for me personally. If you’re looking for a third person POV romcom that is low-angst and low-spice - this will be right up your alley.
"Love, Naturally" by Sophie Sullivan is a heartwarming and charming romantic comedy that had me hooked from the very first page. Sullivan effortlessly blends humor, wit, and genuine emotion to create a delightful story that leaves you with a smile on your face. The characters are wonderfully relatable, and their journey towards love is both entertaining and endearing. Sullivan's writing is engaging, and she crafts a captivating narrative that keeps you invested until the satisfying conclusion. If you're looking for a feel-good read that celebrates the quirks of life and love, "Love, Naturally" is the perfect choice.
Just finished this one, but I really liked it! It took me out of a month-long reading slump. Full review coming later.
I have thought about this book quite a few times since reading it. Presley and Beckett make the most unlikely of partners, but their individual qualities that they bring to the table are exactly what the other needs.
If you enjoy a good fish out of water, opposites attract story with characters you can really connect with, you’ll enjoy Love, Naturally!
Book: Love, Naturally
Author: Sophie Sullivan
Rating: 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
* Thank you to Netgalley and the author for a copy of this ARC
"Look out, world, there's a new version of Presley Ayers coming your way. Get ready. This Presley camps."
First I want to start by saying, I am so extremely happy to have found a new auto buy author for me! If Sophie Sullivan writes it ... I am going to buy it & read it.
As you can tell ... I loved, loved, loved this book. It was exactly what I needed at exactly the right time.
It was fluffy, cute, had amazing characters, an amazing plot, and I loved seeing all of that character growth.
Emmett can suck it ... Team Beckett all the way! Or should I say #hotmountainman
I am going to keep this review as spoiler free as possible because everyone needs to read this one.
"I think you're magic."
You get:
• Small town romance
• Strangers to lovers
• Amazing banter
• Found family
• Canadian author
• Who did this to you?
• Out of my comfort zone
Love, Naturally is available now! You won't regret giving Sophie Sullivan a chance!
"What are you doing here Beckett?" The easy humor fled from his gaze. "You took something of mine." She laughed. "Yes. Fine. I admit it I stole your pillowcase." "Not my pillowcase, Presley. My heart. You took it, and it's really freaking hard to function without it."
I enjoyed this sweet and charming romance that included a lovely element of found family. The instant love theme (willing to uproot an entire life after a week of knowing someone) was a bit cloying, but overall this is a quick, fun read with likeable characters.
One of the reasons I've gravitated to Sophie Sullivan's books recently is because I always know what to expect. Sullivan's books are cozy and sweet with swoony MMCs. They're not always my *favorite* romance books, but they deliver on their promises -- and "Love, Naturally" is no different. I loved the setting and the characters, and as opposed as I am to insta-love, I was so obsessed with Beckett I looked past it.
I really enjoyed this book! Sophie Sullivan is one of my favorite sweet romance authors and I was so excited to read this book with friends. Beckett and Presley were really sweet opposites who click right away! I feel like some of my favorite pieces of this book would be spoilery to share… you’ll just have to read Love, Naturally! This was a 5 star read for me ⭐️
Love, Naturally is a romance for those who love a charming, small town, Hallmark-esque story.
The side characters are lovable and the dual point-of-view between Beckett & Presley is a nice touch! Opposites attract is a great trope, and these two also have an instant connection.
As far as spice goes, it is a closed door romance so it’s perfect for those who like their books more PG-rated.
I’d rate it 3.5 stars! ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this eARC to read & review!
Calling all seasoned romance readers and newcomers! "Love, Naturally" by Sophie Sullivan will whisk you away on an adventure where opposites collide and hearts find their way.
Enter a heartwarming tale that takes readers into the enchanting world of opposites attracting. Set against the backdrop of rugged wilderness and unexpected romance, this delightful novel invites us to step outside our comfort zones and embrace life's surprises.
Meet Presley Ayers, an accomplished concierge at an exclusive hotel in Great Falls, MI. She's more at home recommending the finest champagne and caviar than navigating the great outdoors. But when her boyfriend unexpectedly dumps her right before their vacation to the Get Lost Lodge, Presley decides to embark on the trip solo. Little does she know that her adventure will lead her to unexpected love.
Meet Beckett Keller, a rugged outdoorsman who embodies everything Presley isn't. With his rough stubble and plaid shirts, he's a far cry from her usual world of high heels and brand-name athleisure. Fate brings them together on Lodge territory… will sparks fly?
Sullivan weaves their story with authenticity, capturing the magic of opposites colliding. The cozy, small-town setting feels lived-in, and readers will root for this unlikely pair. This story will remind you that sometimes the best things happen when we take chances. So go hiking through forests or open your heart!
Sullivan is a Canadian author whose day job is teaching. Her gift to readers in Love, Naturally is a delightful escape for us all, and a reminder that love blooms in the most unexpected of places.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I really like this author's books and I enjoyed this one as well. However, I wish that it had been slightly less repetitive. I will be reading more of this author's writings soon.
Thank you NetGalley and St.Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
The "Love, Naturally" is a slow burn romance filled with Duck POV. It was a cute, easy read with a great premise and setting. I loved Beckett and his sweet family. I found that some parts of the story dragged on but overall it kept me interesting the whole time.
3.5 Stars rounded to 4 :)
I am a huge fan of Sophie Sullivan’s books and I could not wait to read Love, Naturally.
The setting is perfect, small town, outdoors, lodge and lake life. I haven’t read many he falls first troupes so I wasn’t sure if I would like it. But I really did!
Presley arranges a trip to Get Lost Lodge for her boyfriend’s Birthday. But when she gives him the gift he was not appreciative of it. So does what anyone would, goes by herself. Presley is a city girl who does not like to fish, hike or the outdoors. This could be an interesting week for her.
When she arrives at the lodge there is an issue and ends up staying in Beckett’s cabin. I loved the chemistry that built up between them even though “Hot Mountain Man” (Beckett) fell for Presley first. You will have to read the book to find out why he is called that.
I just loved the banter between them. I also loved the side characters, Grey, Jilly, Ollie, Mr. D, Gramps and the rest of the Smile community.
I cannot wait to read Sophie Sullivan’s next book. While we wait for I highly recommend that you pick this one up. It will put a Smile on your face!
Cute Insta-Love
Boy, I must have checked the insta-love box on my reading preferences, because this is the fourth book in a row I’ve read that centered around it. Not my go to genre, but this was a cute story to go with it.
As the blurb says, it’s a charming opposites attract story when it comes to Beckett and Presley. She’s taking a vacation alone after buying it for her boyfriend and being dumped the day she presents it to him. Beckett’s family owns the lodge Presley had booked a room at and from the moment she stepped on the boat to get there, he was smitten.
It was cute that they kinda sorta had the same background in hospitality. While she’s a high-profile concierge, she’s got a slight internet influencer vibe that accidentally puts Beckett’s place on the map. While I thought it was odd this family would lean so heavily on a stranger for all kinds of business advice, I realized they were also desperate for the lodge to survive. I liked both Beckett and Presley’s characters, but it’s the family dynamic that kept me reading. Presley and Beckett were predictable, I want to see how the rest of the family was going to pull things off.
The book is well written in a narrative style, which I’m not a big fan of, as it seems to drag a story down. That said, the book reads as a standalone with an epilogue to wrap things up.
Reviewed for Renee Entress’s Blog
Love Naturally is the fourth delightful romcom from the pen of Sophie Sullivan. Presley Ayers has degrees in hospitality and marketing and is working tirelessly to move up the ladder in the boutique hotel where she works in Great Falls, MI. Presley’s goals include getting ahead in her career and forming a family of her own. As an only child of self indulgent, somewhat neglectful parents, Presley has missed the feeling of family and craves that feeling.
Presley’s boyfriend of eight months, Emmett, has an upcoming birthday and she wants to make it very special. She has taken ten days off work, worked her influencer magic on a small regional airline to get tickets, and purchased a ten day stay at a place Emmett has repeatedly said he wants to go, the Get Lost Lodge. However, when Presley presents Emmett with this gift, he dispels any notions of a future together. Eager to take a buddy on the trip, he doesn’t get the chance when Presley grabs the envelope, leaves his luggage in the parking lot, and heads for the airport.
A shaky small plane flight and wobbly boat ride later, Presley finds herself on a forested island with a lovely, if a bit shabby, lodge. She also finds herself taken by the rugged brother of the lodge owner. Beckett Keller has taken a couple of months off to help his brother Grayson get the lodge up and running well. Grayson lost everything in a divorce settlement but was given the old lodge and island as a consolation prize. Grayson is now determined to make it work along with his brother, his sister Jilly, and her daughter Ollie.
Through a frozen hotel room, a cottage move, hiking, fishing, and boating, family dinners and campfires, Presley falls in love with the Keller family, but none so much as Beckett. Amazing how ten days can change a person’s life! But it’s only vacation, and after ten days it’s time to return to reality.
This is such a good story! With a little something for everyone, Ms. Sullivan creates places I want to go and characters I’d like to meet. The conclusion of this story is so sweet, but there is so much more I want to know about these characters. What becomes of Grayson, Jilly, and Presley’s best friend Rylee? This book has only opened the door for so many more stories. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
I really enjoyed this book! There were some bits I was bored through, but it was still pretty entertaining. I loved that it was dual pov, I think I would have given up on it if I didn't get both Presley + Beckett's povs. I loved that we got to see both their internal struggles and watch them fall in love but not TELL EACH OTHER. I ended up listening to the audiobook, which I really loved. I think that helped me enjoy the book even more. I think that at the end I was just getting bored with them talking to each other and Beckett's family. I hated the whole storyline about Beckett leaving + not telling Presley his feelings until it was 'too late'. Obviously it wasn't too late because they get back together, but like you let her get all the way home before being an adult and talking about your feelings?! I think that part just frustrated me so much. I hate the 'doesn't accept their feelings even though they are full grown adults' trope that is also known as 'miscommunication' trope. But at the end of the day I think I really loved Presley and Beckett's love story and loved how Sophie Sullivan pulled it together in the end.