FINALLY One that actually fit what I wanted to read. Too bad the characters were completely without any chemistry, and the side characters were ridiculously "perfect". This was like Hallmark Channel movie in book form. ( )

This is the first book in the Eternity Springs series. I have read a couple of others ones so wanted to go back to the beginning and read about all the wonderful characters. This book is the story of Nicole Sullivan (the town vet) and Gabe Callaghan. Both of them have some baggage from the past, although Gabe's is grief and guilt together whereas Nic's is betrayal. There is lot of angst in this story. Gabe comes across as rather selfish and self-centered, but considering it has been less than a year since he lost his wife and son, it is understandable. The town of Eternity Springs is wonderful. The friendships, the loyalty and working together that you expect from a small town are all there. I absolutely loved the character of Celeste. She is the senior citizen that rides a motorcycle, has money from somewhere and is the one everyone seems to listen to. She is caring, a bit eccentric and smart. The story kept me interested right from the start and I can't wait to read the next one in the series. ( )

This is my first Emily March book. It is a book of renewal and hope. While I liked it, I'm only giving it 4 stars because of the one hot, steamy sex scene. It didn't have to be so explicit. ( )

I went back and for between three and four stars, then settled on three and one-half, rounded up. See how hard that was for me? This was a tough one for me to review, too, but I'll give it my best shot. I'll start with the easy stuff first.

I loved the small town feel of the story, especially the close friendship between Nic and the other women. The whole premise of Eternity Springs being a place of healing is a neat theme that I'm looking forward to reading throughout the series. The Angel references were very appropriate in that regard. Of all the characters, Celeste was my favorite. From her Gold Wing Harley, to the way she took charge of things, addressing problems without hesitation, she was an all around wonderful lady and great friend...especially to her girlfriends.

While I liked many aspects of the book, I had a few problems with the relationship between Nic and Gabe. I understand that Gabe was grieving, but he was such a jerk at times! Some of the stunts he pulled... I mean...had I been in Nic's shoes...no way could I have given him another chance. She's just barely met this man, so their relationship has no history, their intimate relationship got off to a very bad start, and there isn't a foundation to fall back on. They're barely friends. They jumped right into marriage, basically compounding one bad choice with another. This put tremendous pressure on both of them. With Gabe unprepared to deal with his grief and neither of them knowing the other, it was bound to go wrong.

I saw it coming. One. Big. Disastrous. Meltdown. Yes, they were they were "doing the responsible thing," but where was the SHARED character growth? The butterflies in the stomach that comes when the character realizes they are falling in love? Apparently, that's not what this book is meant to be.

This is more about grief recovery...which is okay...angst isn't a "bad" thing. I just wasn't expecting it. I certainly felt Gabe's pain. The author gets major kudos for fleshing out his feelings of loss and loneliness. A good ugly cry is good for us girls on occasion. The scene on Christmas Eve before Nic shows up? ACK! Rip my heart out and stomp it into itty-bitty Zombie snacks!

It hurt. It hurt so good bad! You've been warned.

Here's my point: All that angst, coupled with 19 1/2 chapters of Gabe's self-pity, made the book feel heavy. This is my only complaint.

I will move on with the series, simply because I know this author is amazing! Her Brazos Bend series (the Callahan Brothers) is one of my favorites and made me laugh until my stomach ached. So take my constructive criticism with a grain of salt (I've been off contemporary Romance for awhile) and give this series a chance! I definitely think it's worth it! ( )

Angel's Rest
Emily March
☆★☆

Gabe Callahan came to Eternity Springs after losing Everything that mattered. All he wants is to be left alone with no connections to the world.
Nic Sullivan is the town Vet in Eternity Springs and seems to be Gabes only weakness.

I liked this book I did. I can't put my finger on what I disliked about it. It was hard for me to ipen up form the beginning. I love the town and the people! Celeste is a doll and just so warming! I love the friendships and bonds.

I think there were a lot of things repeated. And some things drug out!

The thing That I LOVE about this novel is Nic didnt just let a guy walk all over her like a normal romance novel. she kept her pride and didnt let him use her like a doormat! so when you read this lookforward to meeting STRONG women! I also enjoyed the belief aspect in this book. I dont know how to explain. There was a lot of keeping faith, praying, blessings, and love. There was the right amount without making the book seem preachy I enjoyed it.

I have to admit near the end I felt a little unsatisfied though. I still cant put my finger on it.
I do recommend this book and will be continuing the series :) ( )