Review & Giveaway: Carolina Dreaming by Virginia Kantra

Carolina Dreaming (Dare Island #5) by Virginia Kantra

Publication Date: February 2nd 2015 by Berkley

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

About the book:

When it comes to love, anything can happen on Dare Island—especially in this latest novel from New York Times bestselling author Virginia Kantra. 

After escaping a disastrous marriage, bakery owner Jane Clark has convinced herself that she has everything she needs—her precious son, a thriving business, and a roof over her head. But the arrival of a handsome stranger on the island shows her exactly what she’s been missing...

The only home Gabe Murphy ever had was the Marine Corps. He's working hard to rebuild his life. It will take a special place, and a special woman, to make him want to stay.

Now Gabe is determined to prove that he's worthy of Jane’s trust—and her love. But when her past reappears, that trust will be tested, and Jane and Gabe will have to fight hard to hold onto their love and make their dreams a reality...

My Thoughts:

Carolina Dreaming takes us back to the idyllic vacation town of Dare Island, where there’s a small population of locals.  Everyone knows everyone and they look out for their own.  So when a handsome, dangerous looking stranger comes to town, the residents take notice. But Gabe isn’t quite a stranger.  After life’s dealt him a few knocks, he’s returning to the only place that ever felt like home.  Luke Fletcher and his family welcomed Gabe in the past with open arms and treated him like one of their own. Still, he didn’t come for handouts and wants to make his own way. 

Jane is known as the police chief’s daughter who married wrong.  Youth and inexperience led her to believe her high school sweetheart was the one for her, but the marriage was far from story book.  Now as a single mother, Jane’s come a long way.  She’s runs a successful business: Jane’s Sweet Tea House, and is looking to expand, but her main concern is to provide a happy, secure environment for her seven year-old son, Aiden.  When Gabe saunters into her shop, she’s immediately attracted, but old insecurities creep in and make her doubt her judgment in men.  Jane’s father doesn’t make things any easier when he warns her off of Gabe, implying she doesn’t have the smarts to pick a solid and steady man.

Jane was a sweet and nurturing woman and it was easy to see why a loser like Travis (the ex-husband) was able to get in and take advantage.  Fortunately, Jane wised up, but not to the point of becoming hard and cynical.  She still has a soft spot for people, always feeding and caring for the people of the island.  When she first meets Gabe, down on his luck, there’s no way she can ignore him or the feelings he brings up. 

Gabe is a sweetheart as well, even with all that life has thrown at him.  He’s just the right amount of alpha protective male mixed in with patience and kindness.  I loved the bond he formed with sweet little Aiden. 

Jane’s dad was a little annoying at first, but I can’t be too judgmental because I’d probably feel the same way if Jane were my daughter.  I enjoyed his little side romance. 

Virginia Kantra’s writing is smooth and beguiling, and the steamy scenes were hot and sensual!  Her characters feel real, and it was easy to put myself in their shoes while reading.  I’d definitely recommend Carolina Dreaming or any of the books in the series to anyone who enjoys an easy going romance. 

4 Suns

The lovely people of Berkley have generously provided a Paperback Copy of Carolina Dreaming to one lucky Waves of Fiction follower.  Simply fill out the rafflecopter for a chance to win. The giveaway is restricted to US residents. 

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