Cassidy Cooper never wanted to set foot in Crystal Falls again. Ten years ago, she gave her heart to a boy who, in turn, humiliated her deeply. Now, back in town as the sole beneficiary of her sister’s estate, she’s determined to make her sister’s dream of an upscale chocolate truffle shop, come true. Hunter Gray is intrigued by his new neighbor. His escape artist cow, Marigold, engineers an … engineers an introduction…but it’s not quite the first impression he’s hoping for. Baffled by the nagging suspicion he’s seen this woman before, he plots to win Cassidy’s heart at every opportunity.
With the object of her unrequited love living within shouting distance, Cassidy prays for strength to forgive and forget. And Hunter? He just wants to get back to his own dream to grow his farm and get to know the pretty girl next door. If she’ll let him.
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A Semi-Sweet Summer turned out to be a fun, enjoyable read for the most part. At first, I honestly wasn’t all that crazy about Cassidy or Hunter, but as the book progressed and I got to to know them and their stories a little better, I found that they were pretty likable. I really enjoyed Hunter’s character—the good guy who doesn’t know how good he is. I loved how he sought to take care of Cassidy and jumped in quickly whenever she needed him. Cassidy grew on me as she began to change and loosen up throughout the book and as she began to return to her relationship with the Lord. I also enjoyed the supporting characters and getting to know a bit more about them as well. The little bit of mystery on the side was a nice addition to the story even though it was fairly obvious to me who the culprit was from the beginning. The situation provided some opportunities for Hunter to come along side and be there for Cassidy, showing himself to be a changed man from the person he was in his past.
The book is a bit predictable, but it was a good read for the mood I was in. Sweet, clean, lighthearted romance. I know that’s not always what I’m in the mood for and neither are others, but if you find yourself needing or wanting that kind of a book, this one could be a good one to try.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher and have chosen to review it. My opinions are my own.
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.