I loved how we were able to see what the other person was thinking and being able to see this love story play out. '"Not mine" Knox pulled out the stool beside his brother. "Mine's a night owl."' Absolutely loved that scene ( )

Even though she is moving from being a part of the Ward Hotels in New York to a housekeeper at The Eloise Inn in Quincy, Montana, Memphis Ward knows she is doing what is best for herself and her son, Drake. Out from under the thumb of her controlling parents, she is changing into someone that she and her son can respect. The crying baby living in the loft above his garage is driving Knox Eden crazy as is his beautiful mother, but he quickly realizes that Memphis is more than just a housekeeper in his family's hotel, and he is dying to unravel all of her secrets.

Juniper Hill is a very good addition to The Edens series. The characters are likable, and their romance seems realistic, even though it happens a bit too quickly. Unfortunately, other characters in the story are left underdeveloped, and the plot teases an explosive conclusion that never really takes place. However, the narrative does gently explore several dilemmas and a minor suspense story line that the characters face throughout the novel. Overall, Juniper Hill is entertaining and well worth the read. ( )

❤️ ( )

Outstanding

If this book is any testament to how amazing this year is going to be in regards to books, then it bodes well considering that it is only January. I am a huge fan of this author. She has penned some of my all-time favorite books. Each series she writes works its way into my soul and I fall a little deeper under the spell that is this author. However, this series, this family, and this small-town might be the one that ends up being my favorite.

I, thoroughly, enjoyed the first book. I knew that it was setting up the series and had not just a story to tell for the main characters but also in introducing the family members, but this book? These two characters? Yeah... they were magic. Plain and simple. From the first chapter, I was mesmerized by wanting to uncover the backstory of Memphis, and her infant son, Drake. I felt her weariness, despair, and even her hope for a new life in Quincy, Montana. Her interactions with her son and steadfast devotion and dedication to giving him a better life were inspiring.

I loved the attraction and chemistry that Knox and Memphis had. I liked watching it grow as he helped her find her footing and to give her a helping hand. I hated what he had lost previously and therefore, I understand and could empathize with the caution that he approached both her and Drake. Those moments as their connection grew enhanced the story in ways that I didn't see coming. There was nothing artificial in this relationship. What you saw was what you got. There was beauty in crying and being frustrated or scared, and in falling in love when things in life got messy. These two reminded me of why I read romance. So much so that I stayed up until the wee hours of the morning because I could not stop reading this book.

This author is a master wordsmith. She is one of the best at her craft, especially when it comes to rural romance. She writes what she knows, and in this case, it is Montana. Having visited several times in my life, I know the appeal. However, seeing Montana from her eyes (or in this case words), I think I am in need of another vacation there. She makes me feel homesick for a state that isn't even home. That takes a gift.

There was a mystery, suspense, and a few nail-biter moments, which is normal for this author's books. There were no loose ends in the story, which I appreciated, and there was no extra fluff or needed filler to create this story. The Eden family members all made cameos at one point or another and it did give a sneak peek into what is coming next and the character who will be getting their story.

I just have to say praise the Lord that there are six children in this family because I am not ready to be done will them or Montana. This book sure came out of the New Year with guns blazing. Already calling it a top book of 2022. ( )

( )