A flashback prologue establishes Caleb Stone’s sibling rivalry with his two brothers, his love for his grandmother Hattie, his angst over his parents divorce, the fish out of water feeling as an Alaskan transplanted to Arizona, his desire to be popular and his love for the ladies… at eight years old, in an inner monologue that is not the voice of an eight-year old.

Flash forward some number of years later to Caleb’s brother Xavier’s engagement party. Aspiring actor Caleb, recently booted off a reality dating show, and Landon, are teasing Xavier and his bride to be about getting married. In short order, we learn Hattie is terminally ill, the future her Yukon Cider business is up in the air as the brothers need to come to agreement about their inheritance, and Caleb has the hots for the curvy single mom photographer hired to help at the event. Photographer Sophie, a reality television junkie, saw Caleb’s disastrous stint on Love Him or Leave Him, thinks she got his number, and would prefer to leave him, and communicates this with the cut direct. As she did, a month ago, the last time he flirted with her.

Unfortunately, dude cannot take NO for an answer and Caleb follows Sophie when she is sent up to the attic to get an antique camera Hattie’s been saving for her. They get locked in, disclose backstories and childhood traumas in the ten minutes they’re alone together… and then Caleb is attacked by an infestation of carpenter ants. Itchy and welted, he just has to get out his clothes…which is when his mother and brothers show up to rescue them.

While it’s true carpenter ants will bite if threatened, and do spray an acid that intensifies the discomfort, this seemed a bit over the top—it’s not clear where the fictional town of Moose Falls Alaska is located, but carpenter ants are not native to southeast Alaska. Apart from questionable fact-checking, and tired old trope of pursue the girl until you wear her down and she says yes, I found the characters disingenuous and unlikeable. The writing relied on telling not showing; employs passive voice over active; and relies on adverbs instead of strong verbs. This is poorly written or poorly edited. It felt like the second book in a series, trying to catch the reader up to speed from page one, with no skill or patience for weaving in details to allude back to previous events or set the stage for a third book in the series (three brothers, gotta be another installment coming…).

A quibble: the teaser after the cover has an excerpt from a chapter about 14% of the way through the book, but doesn’t name the protagonist.

I stopped Flirting With Alaska at 16% and did not finish.

For a much more charming take on love in Alaska, try the Moose Springs series by Sarah Morgenthaler, which features strong setting, unique characters, and lots of humor.

I received a free advance readers review copy of #FlirtingWithAlaska via #NetGalley courtesy of #Forever.

If you are looking for a fluffy, hallmark-style Alaskan romance, you may have just found the right book for you!

Unfortunately for me, this was not the book I was expecting to read, and feel I am probably not the target audience. We start the book with inst-attraction between both Caleb (the reality star "player") and Sophia, the local photographer and single mom while at an engagement party for Xavier, Caleb's brother. You get the strong sense of family on both sides; Sophia has a great relationship with her father and sister, and she has an adorable daughter she loves! Caleb's dedication to his grandmother, brothers, and his parents is very evident as well. This seemed like it will be a very sweet, fluffy/cozy sort of romance, adorable meetings, resisting of feelings. If you're still hooked, then this book is worth the read for you.


In my honest review, I had to DNF around chapter 6.


Id like to separate my opinions from the positives I found of this book, so Ill try to provide a visual divide.


I found the writing style campy/cheesy; Im all for a romance cliche, hit the trope checklist style, but this one felt a bit over the top. The inst-infatuation was way too fast for me for how often they both remember the reasons they shouldnt be together; I felt distracted with how many side characters and their love stories and histories; I think Hattie was supposed to be endearing but I felt we focused more on her situations then Caleb or Sophia. I also found repetition on verbiage/phrases distracting; on multiple occasions of characters having thoughts repeat within a page or two.

Flirting with Alaska is the second book in Calhoune's Moose Falls, Alaska series. This is the story of the middle Stone brother, Caleb, and Sophia, a photographer, and her four year old daughter, Lily. Both Caleb and Sophia have had past romances that went amuck. As their feelings for each other grow, will they be brave enough to try romance again?

I appreciated that the author got the reader up to speed on what transpired in the first book. I also enjoyed the closeness that the Stone brothers shared with each other.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #GrandCentralPublshing for an e-pub of this book. All opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.

#FlirtingWithAlaska #NetGalley

Loved this sweet romance and second chance story.
Past regrets that kept me turning the pages well into the middle of the night. I love a good story like that.
Grandmother Hattie was pretty cool. I almost wished she was mine.
I loved the setting of this book. I could visualize being in Alaska. A beautiful and wild place. Cold too!
I enjoyed in getting to know Sophia Caleb. They made me laugh out loud at their playfulness. I thought they made a cute couple. I found myself rooting for them. After all, they're only human. Mistakes are a part of life's journey. So's sweet sweet love. I "sighed" pleasure when the end came.
I wasn't disappointed at all. I'm looking forward to the next Calhoune novel. She's a fantastic writer and has a way of drawing her readers in from the start.
5 stars from me for keeping me entertained with Sophia and Caleb. I love them both.
My thanks for a copy of this wonderful story. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Although this book had all the right ingredients, it wasn’t quite to my taste. This is unfortunate because I enjoyed the first book in this series. It was a five-star read for me.

When I started reading, I thought I’d read this book before; Alaskan setting, someone dying and gifting a business, siblings needing to work together for a certain time frame before a decision is made….Finally found it ~ Moose Be Love by Jacqueline Winters!

As someone who works closely with children of different ages daily, I found the age representations, era-specific toys, and conversations a bit off. I also had difficulty connecting with the characters and struggled with the pacing.

I did enjoy:

✔the tension created when the siblings needed to present a united front and they each had unique personalities. It reminded me of me and my siblings!
✔The concept of giving love another chance and of preserving a legacy

I don’t make these comments lightly; I’ve read this several times since it was gifted to me a month and a half ago and I struggled each time. I appreciate the chance to read and review. Please don’t let my disappointment influence your decision to read this book. Investigate other reviews.

"Flirting With Alaska" by Belle Calhoune is a sweet soft romance story about Caleb and Sophia finding a path to each other. This is book 2 of Calhoune Alaska series and continues with the next brother's romance. I love that this book can also be a stand alone. When things are mentioned about from the first book, the author does brief explanation of what they are referring too. The two main characters were cute to read that I was able to have a visual in my mind throughout the story.

** Thank you NetGalley, Forever Grand Central Publishing, and Belle Calhoune for an eARC copy of "Flirting with Alaska".

This was such a cute love story. I absolutely fell in love with Moose Falls. I also love Hattie who is a rock star grandma. Lily is the cutest child. Caleb and Sophia build such a fun and loving relationship throughout the book. They have to work together in order to build a new image for the company. It brings some unique moments. Totally recommend for a heartwarming story.

Thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC of *Flirting with Alaska* by Belle Calhoune. I’m giving it 4 stars. This was a fun, closed-door rom-com with a cozy, small-town vibe. I was particularly drawn to this book because I live in Alaska, and it was exciting to see some descriptions of the state I call home. The author did a great job capturing the charm and beauty of Alaska, which added an extra layer of enjoyment for me as a local reader.

The chemistry between the two main characters was engaging, and their banter felt natural and fun. I appreciated how their relationship developed—it felt genuine, and the playful moments kept the tone light and enjoyable. This is a sweet romance that avoids some of the usual dramatic pitfalls, and I liked that the closed-door aspect allowed the story to focus more on emotional connection.

My only minor issue was that this is the second book in a series, which I didn’t realize until I was already into the story. Although it can be read as a standalone, I did feel like I was missing some context and character background, which made me wish I’d started with the first book. It didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment, but I think I would have gotten more out of it if I had the full series experience.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted romance set against the gorgeous backdrop of Alaska, this is a great pick!

4⭐️ This is my first book by Bella Calhoune and I am sure it won't be my last. This book was such a cozy contemporary book that pulls at your heartstrings. Even though this is the second book in the series, I don't think there is any issue with reading it as a standalone. Overall, I would definitely recommend and look forward to going back and reading about Xavier and True's story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the opportunity to read this eARC for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.

This is the 2nd book in the “Moose Falls Alaska Series.” Flirting With Alaska is about Stone brother number 2 Caleb but all three brothers are mentioned throughout “Flirting With Alaska”. Sophia is a up and coming photographer and single mom to her adorable 4-year-old daughter Lily. Remember Caleb is the brother who has his heart set on becoming a famous Hollywood actor. He was on a reality TV show where he was painted in a bad light known as the “The Love Rat” where he allegedly become involved with twins. Caleb has fallen hard for Sophia but is still undecided whether he will be staying in Alaska or returning to the acting scene. Hattie is the matriarch of the family that brought the Stone brothers back to Alaska to take over her business Yukon Cider. Caleb is having a hard time dealing with past issues with his father Red. As Caleb and his dad finally have the long-awaited discussion family issues are revealed about Daisy his mom and dad Red. Caleb has a better understating about the situation between his parents. Sophia has trust issues from her ex-boyfriend Lily’s dad. Sophia and Caleb are enjoying their time together and are getting closer. Sophia and Caleb are good for each other as they have both been hurt in the game of love. There are obstacles in their way but the two are gaining their footing on the right track. Hattie is holding her own and everyone is still very much concerned about failing health.

Two Stone brothers down older brother Xavier, middle brother Caleb and one to go younger brother Landon. Landon is the youngest of the Stone brothers and a scientist whose reputation was ruined due to allegedly plagiarizing his work. Awesome series, loved the characters and the plot that had me laughing up a storm.

I received an ARC via Netgalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and I am leaving my review voluntarily.

This was my first book by Belle Calhoune and definitely won’t be my last!

This story was so festive and sweet. It takes place in a small Alaskan town and truly is my dream semi-isolated cozy setting for a book.

This was the second book in the series but read wonderfully for me as a stand-alone! I loved getting to know the characters and their quirks and charms.

I personally loved that this stayed a sweet seasonal romance and was more closed door. It suited the vibe and characters perfectly.

I can’t wait to recommend this to my book club for December and read more from this author!

Hattie, a grandmother of three boys, gets them to come back to Alaska, to teach them about her business, before she passes away. good story

This is a second book in the series, although truthfully it can be read as a standalone. It is another sweet story about second chances, and learning to trust. I love the characters, especially Hattie, the grandmother. She is terminal, and has gotten her three grandsons back to Moose Falls, Alaska, to learn and take over her business. But, she also loves a little matchmaking! This time it is Caleb and Sophia she sets her sights on. I really enjoy the series, and am looking forward to Landon's story.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Another sweet and clean romance by Belle Calhoune! The setting of Moose Falls, Alaska, provides the perfect backdrop for love! This is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a stand-alone.

There are a ton of familiar characters! The three handsome Stone brothers are wonderful! Their brotherly bond is strong and true. Hattie is still a fire cracker! She doesn't let her illness stop her from living life. Sophia is amazing! She's a strong, sexy, successful single mother! I enjoyed seeing Caleb grow and mature throughout the story!

I really liked that Caleb was able to talk to his father about their painful past. As he learns about a distressing secret, he feels closer to Red and ready to listen to his heart.

I was provided a complimentary copy of the book from Forever/ Hatchette Book Group via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

It’s a sweet love story. I was a little disappointed because there seemed so many different avenues that could have been explored but weren’t. Then I realized that it was part of a series. Sweet love story. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy for my honest review.

This is a sweet, clean romance with a unique romance between a single mom and a Hollywood star who really hit it off. They have some amazing chemistry between these two and I adored their budding relationship. This is a perfect cozy fall/winter read for the fans of closed door romance!

Next up in the Moose Falls, Alaska series is Caleb Stone. This charming and handsome Stone brother dreams of being a Hollywood star, but first will honor his Grandmother’s wishes - helping run Yukon Cider alongside his two brothers. What Caleb does not expect is to find love.

Gorgeous Sophia Brand’s sole focus is her taking care of her daughter and has sworn off men for good. One chance encounter with Caleb completely sidetracks Sophia. When they are hired to work together, by Caleb’s match making Grandmother, both Caleb and Sophia slowly succumb to their attraction.

Flirting with Alaska is a wholesome romance with all the small town vibes and hardly any spice. I enjoyed the relationship building while considering real life aspects between the two characters. Caleb and Sophia definitely had chemistry. Perfect for those who are looking for a closed door, sweet romance. This is the series for you.
I look forward to book three with the next Stone brother.

Thanks to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for providing me with an e-ARC of this via Netgalley.

No es necesario leer el libro anterior para entender este.

Sophia es madre soltera que lucha por darle la mejor vida a su hija, trabaja como fotógrafa y cuando le ofrecen la oportunidad de trabajar con una importante empresa local, no duda en aceptar. Pero no todo es bueno ya que tiene que trabajar cuando a Caleb, uno de los nietos con lo que ha tenido algunos malos entendidos.

Caleb quiere ser un famoso actor y todo iba por ese camino hasta hace dos años en donde un reality acabó con su reputación, se supone que jugó con el corazón de dos hermanas (no fue así), pero toda la gente creyó eso y lo tratan como mal, entonces en lugar de que su carrera creciera, terminó perdiendo todo lo que había ganado.



Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Flirting with Alaska is a sweet clean romance revolving around the budding love story of a single mom and reformed Hollywood star. This was the first book by this author I have read and enjoyed how in touch with their emotions the characters were. It isn’t necessary to read the first book of the series, but I did enjoy seeing the character development from, what I assume, are the main couple of book 1. Overall, it was a sweet, easy read perfect for a cozy winter day ❄️

Sophia already has the love of her life: her four-year-old daughter, Lily. She's not looking for a man for anything - unless it's to photograph him for work. Caleb Stone is still reeling from a reality show stint that left him dubbed "The Love Rat." He still wants to fix his reputation in Hollywood, but an agreement with his brothers has him working in Alaska for another 9 months. He's not interested in women there, unless it's his terminally ill grandmother, Hattie. But when Sophia and Caleb get trapped together during a party, will they re-evaluate those decisions and scratch the itch for more? Or is that itch just from the ants in the attic crawling up Caleb's pants?

This is a sweet cozy story that is the second book in what I'm guessing will be a three-book series. You don't have to have read book 1 in order to read this book, though. I liked the way they main characters grew together, and I really appreciated when they were honest with each other about fears, life experiences and hopes/desires. The side characters are great, like Sophia's sister and dad, and the others of the Stone clan.

As the wife of an Alaskan, and someone who's been to the Last Frontier many times, unfortunately the incorrect Alaskan references in this book (and book 1) really frustrated me and brought down my rating. Of course this is fiction, and there is willing suspension of disbelief, but some references were so off as to pull me completely out of the story.

If you're looking for a sweet clean romance, this is a quick fun read. Just maybe take the Alaskan references with a grain of salt?

Spice level (scale of 1-5): 1 (kissing)

Stars: 3.5 rounded to 4

My thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book. All opinions here are strictly my own! :)