A Semi-Sweet Summer

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

If you enjoy sweet, Christian romances then you will enjoy this book. The plot was entertaining and the characters were enjoyable.

A Semi-Sweet Summer by Jan Elder is a great summer read. It is set in Maryland in modern times.
Cassidy Cooper has just moved back to Maryland from Chicago after the death of her stepsister, Savannah. She and Savannah were never especially close but when Savannah passed away she left her house to Cassidy along with a business that had not opened yet. Savannah’s friend Gabby arrives to help Cassidy move in and helps her adjust to the culture shock of living in the country now. Cassidy soon learns that her neighbor is her heartthrob from high school, Hunter Gray. Hunter never noticed her at all in high school. Hunter has a cow that regularly escapes and finds Cassidy’s lawn very tasty so totally avoiding Hunter does not work. Will Hunter see his new neighbor in a different light now? Along with the farm, Hunter assists his sister in her bakery. Cassidy decides to go ahead with the plans for Savannah’s Sweets truffle shop with the help of chocolatier Gabby. Someone though does not want the shop to open; who could be sabotaging the plans and why does someone want Cassidy to fail?
I really liked this story. Who could not like a story about Christian values, chocolate, and romance? Really the writing is excellent and the reader is drawn in from page one as the characters practically jump off the page. I could just see Cassidy’s frustration as she has just arrived at her new home, Gabby walks right in, then she discovers a cow in her yard and Hunter coming to get it and that is just the beginning. Jan Elder weaves a story with a variety of characters, some Christians and some not, who interact throughout their lives. Cassidy has issues she needs to deal with from the past but can she overcome by relying on God? Hunter struggles with his own issues of relationships even though he is a strong Christian and prays regularly. This story shows that being a Christian doesn’t mean you have a perfect life and no worries. This story shows reality in the lives of all the characters. I rate this book 5 of 5 stars and recommend it to everyone who enjoys Christian romance and of course chocolate.
I received an advance copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

A Semi-Sweet Summer is a sweet romance. As is always the case with this author's books it is well written. I enjoyed the story and the characters in this book. I recommend this to readers who enjoy good clean romance. You will not go wrong with this book.

A Semi Sweet Summer is a fun, sweet book that can be read in one sitting. I'm new to Jan Elder's writing but will be looking for more of her books in the future.

The writing is easy to read and follow. The plot is nicely crafted, with a hint of mystery and a whole lot of romance. The plot details the relationship between Hunter and Cassidy and explores quite a few themes like forgiveness, learning to trust, learning to function in a body of Christ among others. The dialogue between the characters is genuine and real, which helps the plot.

Hunter is a farmer, trying to revamp his old ways when dealing with women and trying desperately to honor God in his relationships even as he struggles with some things in his past. Cassidy is a businesswoman, beckoned back to a small town in Maryland after her stepsister dies who is just living day to day trying to shed the grief of current loss and pain of the past that Hunter stirs. Their friendship develops slowly and it takes Cassidy awhile to recognize that Hunter is grown up and unlike the boy he was in high school. Hunter is a great character; his desire to change and be molded for God's glory is admirable. The secondary characters Gabby and Blake are so much fun and I hope there is a longer story about them in another book.

The importance of faith and walking the walk was addressed in this book. It wasn't preachy and the points were made well to underscore Hunter and Cassidy's relationship.

Anyone who likes fun, sweet, light Christian romance that is a quick read would appreciate this book.

I received a copy of this book from Pelican Book Group via NetGalley and also from the author. I was not required to write a review or write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

Good book about looking for the future with new opportunities and forgiveness of the past. Enjoyed Cassidy and Hunter's story. This was the first book by this author for me and will be on the look out for more .

Ebook from net Galley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.

A Semi-Sweet Summer was exactly that- a sweet read. I enjoyed watching the relationship between Cassidy & Hunter begin again. Their relationship was fun to watch as they each fell more in love.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.