4.5 stars. An impressive debut novel by newcomer Sarah Title, Kentucky Home is an absolutely delightful romance that is full of charming characters. This well-written novel is a wonderful story about starting over and finding love when it is least expected. Please click HERE to read my review in its entirety. ( )

Really wonderful story about Mallory who was leaving an abusive marriage and Keith a young widower who hasn't been able to move on. These very different people both learn how to love again. Recommended. ( )

3.5 stars

This was a nice small town contemporary romance. It felt a bit chlichéd at times with the awesome cooking housekeeper who cared for everyone and the grumpy old dad. The hero's two siblings have their issues, too, and you can already see the sequels lining up but it was still an emotional read with an adorable hero.



(A review copy was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.) ( )

By: Sarah Title
Published By: Kensington Books
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 4
Book Blog For: GMTA
Review:

"Kentucky Home" by Sarah Title was a sweet contemporary romance about 'second chances.' With Mallory Thompson leaving a abusive marriage and escaping with her friend Luke Carson to his home as a 'fake fiancé.' Then Luke goes off leaving her this 'city girl' with people she did not know. Luke's brother Keith did take notice of her but she was his brother fiancé. Keith has lost his wife due to a car accident and now he felt conflicted with his emotions toward Mallory. Since this story is of second chances and rebuilding your live and living it to the fullest as you read you will be able to see just how this author will accomplish this. This was a beautiful story of 'starting over and finding love' and I would definitely recommend this novel as a good read. ( )

Mallory Thompson appears to have it all -- a loving husband and a beautiful home . . . but appearances can be deceiving. Mallory has been on the receiving end of emotional, psychological and verbal abuse from her husband, Dr. Michael Thompson. He has told her what to wear, sabotaged any possibility of her having a job, and made her daily life a living hell. Even after their "separation" he continued to demean her by bringing women into their home and expecting her to continue to provide for him as part of her wifely duties. Mallory finally decides to leave Michael after he hits her, but she has nowhere to go and is afraid for her safety. Luckily, the only friend she has, Luke Carson, comes up with a plan and takes her to his family in Kentucky.

Mallory is quickly made to feel at home in Kentucky. Luke's family opens their arms and home to her and she quickly finds enjoyment in the simple pleasures of life. In a short period of time Mallory has learned to overcome her fear of dogs and befriends Peanut (a three-legged rescue dog). She also learns what it's like to be a part of a family for the first time in a long time.

Kentucky Home is a contemporary story that blends just the right amount of romance with self-discovery not to mention humor. Mallory learns to fight for her freedom and begins to build a new life for herself in Kentucky. I found all of the characters, even the bad guy, to be well-developed and realistic. The simple rural life that Ms. Title provides is an excellent backdrop for the action within the story. Running a business is difficult work in these current economic times and this isn't downplayed whether it's the veterinarian's business or the stables. It was nice to see Mallory grow in strength of mind and purpose. Good food, good friends and a simple life provide Mallory with the foundation she needs to learn to appreciate who she is and what she wants out of life. Kentucky Home is a well-written contemporary romance that you don't want to miss. I found this to be a fast-paced read that provided just as many smiles from the humor as it did sizzles from the romance. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Title and the Southern Comfort series. ( )