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Ocean City Boardwalk #1
Following His Heart
***USA Today Bestselling Author***
Sara Carson is a 30-something widow with a busy life. Two fun-loving best friends, a caring mom who needs her, and a thriving sweet shop. What more could a woman want? But when the ancient plumbing in her shop springs a leak and a gorgeous, dark-eyed stranger rushes to her rescue, hilarity unfolds—and Sara quickly sees exactly what she’s been missing.
Something most peculiar draws Landon Richards to Ocean City, Maryland—and to the lovely Sara. This woman touches his heart like no other, and the two of them explore the heady attraction that pulses between them. But haunting dreams have a way of encroaching on reality, and the strange phenomenon that brings these two together will also threaten to tear them apart.
This is the first book in the Ocean City Boardwalk Series, where life for three enterprising women, Sara, Heather, and Cathy, isn’t just fun in the sun—love is waiting on those sandy shores!
Sara Carson is a 30-something widow with a busy life. Two fun-loving best friends, a caring mom who needs her, and a thriving sweet shop. What more could a woman want? But when the ancient plumbing in her shop springs a leak and a gorgeous, dark-eyed stranger rushes to her rescue, hilarity unfolds—and Sara quickly sees exactly what she’s been missing.
Something most peculiar draws Landon Richards to Ocean City, Maryland—and to the lovely Sara. This woman touches his heart like no other, and the two of them explore the heady attraction that pulses between them. But haunting dreams have a way of encroaching on reality, and the strange phenomenon that brings these two together will also threaten to tear them apart.
This is the first book in the Ocean City Boardwalk Series, where life for three enterprising women, Sara, Heather, and Cathy, isn’t just fun in the sun—love is waiting on those sandy shores!
236 pages, ebook
First published December 12, 2014
About the author
Donna Fasano
62 books273 followersGrowing up the third child of five—yes, smack dab in the middle and the only girl to boot—Donna Fasano had no idea she would one day be a published author. Her story-telling talents came to light when she conjured lively and elaborate tales of pure blarney (yes, she has a bit of Irish in her blood) for her children.
Donna is a USA Today bestselling author of over forty novels. Be sure to follow her on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/donna...
Donna is a USA Today bestselling author of over forty novels. Be sure to follow her on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/donna...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 17, 2017
Sara struggles with widowhood and the loss of her childhood playmate become lover and spouse while Landon, torn from his family farm, follows a chimera halfway across the country. Set in the wonderland that is Ocean City, Maryland, you can almost smell the tanning oil--okay, Thrashers isn't even mentioned in this one, but sunset at Fager's Island is. Oh, you haven't been? Well, enjoy a virtual trip, a(n) HEA (Happily Ever After) with quite a twist and some truly wonderful friendships.
This novel has also been released as part 1 of a trilogy but it stands alone. Perfect, if I may say it, beach reading!
This novel has also been released as part 1 of a trilogy but it stands alone. Perfect, if I may say it, beach reading!
December 12, 2014
I received a free copy for an honest review.
At first, I thought this was going to be a typical romantic comedy. But, it's so much more. There's mystery, subtle paranormal, healing from past grief and loss, as well as laugh out loud humor.
Sarah is a baker / pastry chef who operates her own bakery. Landon is new to town and he steps in to help because he's a good handyman and can help with the plumbing. They have an instant connection, but can't quite figure out why it's so strong. The story follows their relationship and is primarily focused on Sarah and how she allows Landon to help heal her from her grief after her husband's death.
What I liked:
* Legitimate humor - it wasn't bawdy and crass.
* Landon was a swoon worthy hero. He had a lot to grapple with, but he was alway honorable and respectable.
* Sarah - even though I think she over-reacted in a few places, she listened to her mother and friends and grew in character and moved beyond her own self centeredness.
* Heather, Cathy, and Geneva - fantastic supporting characters. Funny, honest, true.
* Honesty - I appreciate when the author displays honesty between the characters instead of the trendy, but oh so annoying, lies / deceptions / half truths. It's refreshing to have characters tell the truth to each other!
* Quick read - it didn't bog down. It was paced well - thus resulting in a quick read.
What I didn't like as well :
* I wished I could have gotten to know Landon better. I wanted to know more about his thoughts and plans.
* my common request - epilogue. What happens next?
Finally, for what it's worth, I was excited to find recipes at the end. I thought that was a nice touch.
Details:
Language: PG.
Romance: PG / PG-13 - some steam, but it's kept mostly off camera.
Editing: A+
My rating: 5 stars.
At first, I thought this was going to be a typical romantic comedy. But, it's so much more. There's mystery, subtle paranormal, healing from past grief and loss, as well as laugh out loud humor.
Sarah is a baker / pastry chef who operates her own bakery. Landon is new to town and he steps in to help because he's a good handyman and can help with the plumbing. They have an instant connection, but can't quite figure out why it's so strong. The story follows their relationship and is primarily focused on Sarah and how she allows Landon to help heal her from her grief after her husband's death.
What I liked:
* Legitimate humor - it wasn't bawdy and crass.
* Landon was a swoon worthy hero. He had a lot to grapple with, but he was alway honorable and respectable.
* Sarah - even though I think she over-reacted in a few places, she listened to her mother and friends and grew in character and moved beyond her own self centeredness.
* Heather, Cathy, and Geneva - fantastic supporting characters. Funny, honest, true.
* Honesty - I appreciate when the author displays honesty between the characters instead of the trendy, but oh so annoying, lies / deceptions / half truths. It's refreshing to have characters tell the truth to each other!
* Quick read - it didn't bog down. It was paced well - thus resulting in a quick read.
What I didn't like as well :
* I wished I could have gotten to know Landon better. I wanted to know more about his thoughts and plans.
* my common request - epilogue. What happens next?
Finally, for what it's worth, I was excited to find recipes at the end. I thought that was a nice touch.
Details:
Language: PG.
Romance: PG / PG-13 - some steam, but it's kept mostly off camera.
Editing: A+
My rating: 5 stars.
August 29, 2018
Beautiful
A wonderful tribute to people who have to make the decision to donate organs when they have lost someone. Landon grew up in his family farm in Kansas but couldn't do things like other kids because of his heart. Sara lost her husband but takes care of her mom and runs her business and works with her two best friends. He feels the sea calling but doesn't know why until he pulls in Ocean City and it feels like home.
A wonderful tribute to people who have to make the decision to donate organs when they have lost someone. Landon grew up in his family farm in Kansas but couldn't do things like other kids because of his heart. Sara lost her husband but takes care of her mom and runs her business and works with her two best friends. He feels the sea calling but doesn't know why until he pulls in Ocean City and it feels like home.
December 13, 2014
Beautiful story!!
This is the first book I've read by this author, and it will not be the last. From the first page I was sucked into the story and couldn't put the book down. It's well written and the characters feel real and relatable. The story it's so much more than just a romantic one. Yes it's a sweet and sentimental book, but it also deals with loss, friendship, family, second chances, a bit of mystery, laughter and fate.
Sara and Landon met when she was having some plumbing issues in her shop and he comes to her rescue. After the first meeting, they become inseparable. What starts as a friendship, quickly turns into so much more. As their relationship unfolds it's hard not to fall in love with Landon, right along with Sara. And what was a vacation spot to Landon fast becomes home.
The reasons that had Landon longing and looking for a place he had never seen before are what many would call fate. When we got to the part where all the questions were answered, I was surprised but I can say I had some suspicions.
I loved Geneva, Sara's mom. And I love how she was so honest with Sara. I love how she wasn't afraid of setting her daughter straight when she felt was necessary, and did it with so much love. I absolutely loved Sara's best friends, Cathy and Heather. Their banter had me laughing and you could see how much they care for each other. I can't wait to read what's to come for them!!
This is the first book I've read by this author, and it will not be the last. From the first page I was sucked into the story and couldn't put the book down. It's well written and the characters feel real and relatable. The story it's so much more than just a romantic one. Yes it's a sweet and sentimental book, but it also deals with loss, friendship, family, second chances, a bit of mystery, laughter and fate.
Sara and Landon met when she was having some plumbing issues in her shop and he comes to her rescue. After the first meeting, they become inseparable. What starts as a friendship, quickly turns into so much more. As their relationship unfolds it's hard not to fall in love with Landon, right along with Sara. And what was a vacation spot to Landon fast becomes home.
The reasons that had Landon longing and looking for a place he had never seen before are what many would call fate. When we got to the part where all the questions were answered, I was surprised but I can say I had some suspicions.
I loved Geneva, Sara's mom. And I love how she was so honest with Sara. I love how she wasn't afraid of setting her daughter straight when she felt was necessary, and did it with so much love. I absolutely loved Sara's best friends, Cathy and Heather. Their banter had me laughing and you could see how much they care for each other. I can't wait to read what's to come for them!!
December 12, 2014
Following His Heart is the first novel released in Donna Fasano's Ocean City Boardwalk Series. The series will tell the stories of three best friends Sara, Heather and Cathy. They've known each other since school days. This is Sara's and Landon's story. Sara is a young widow having lost her husband 2 years earlier and Landon he's come to Ocean City after the family farm has been sold, his dreams have been of the east coast and the Ocean and no idea why it has drawn him there. A disaster waiting to happen the water pipes burst in Sara's bakery shop, Landon is eating breakfast in Cathy's restaurant. The 3 ladies share a building all their businesses also share water lines. Landon can't help but hear the phone conversation between Sara and Cathy offers to get the water valve turned off before Sara loses all her baked goodies. The girls wrangle Landon into helping them with repairs. Landon and Sara have this immediate attraction, the chemistry is sizzling! The author has written a novel with a great premise and as a reader first I won't share. I want you to have that same feeling I had when it clicked for me! You'll enjoy this read and feel every emotion the author has written. You will be glued to the page as Sara and Landon discover feelings and a past that they may not be able to overcome.
May 7, 2017
This gentle love story touched my emotions and warmed me on the inside. A man and a woman, who both need healing for their hearts, meet under hilarious circumstances. Sara is a loveable, lively character, who is only just coping with the loss of her husband. Her two closest friends are also single for reasons of their own, but together they make a formidable force. When Landon overhears that there is a crisis in the making, he volunteers to step into the breach and doing so, realises that there is meaning behind the strange dreams he has been having. Sara is firmly entrenched in her home with her handicapped mother, sweet shop and close friends. Landon knows where he's coming from, but is not too sure about the future as he is on a quest to find new meaning to his life. However, he is a lovable person and one who is willing to make up for lost time. Life goes on in Ocean City in a gentle rhythm and Landon has to decide whether he wants to take hold of his dreams, but in doing so has to tell Sara why his search brought him into her life, at the risk of losing her. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the beautiful characters and the sense of destiny being fulfilled. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
July 22, 2017
In Following His Heart, Sara and Landon meet and fall in love. The book follows Sara on her road to healing after her husband's death. Landon has been drawn to the ocean after having family and medical issues. Their attraction quickly turns to romance but will it survive when their pasts come into play?
This emotionally driven story is extremely well written. The unexpected twists and turns kept my interest. Sara, Heather & Cathy provide each other with love, support and humor. The characters are very realistic and I fell in love with all of them. This isn't just a love story- it's a life story.
I received an ARC of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest review.
This emotionally driven story is extremely well written. The unexpected twists and turns kept my interest. Sara, Heather & Cathy provide each other with love, support and humor. The characters are very realistic and I fell in love with all of them. This isn't just a love story- it's a life story.
I received an ARC of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest review.
August 24, 2018
There’s something to be said when you open a book and just get lost in the words, and once again Donna Fasano has captivated me with her story and characters. There is just something about her writing that feels comfortable and familiar, and she never fails to make me smile, bring a tear to my eye, and reaffirm my belief in the happy ever after.
I just loved the friendship between Sara, Heather, and Cathy – their banter had me laughing and you could really tell these three ladies cared deeply for one another. It was clear from their actions and from some of the stories told that they always had each other’s backs and would continue to be each other’s strength in times of need.
Landon was such an interesting character. As his story unfolds and we learn more about his past, it was hard not to fall for him even more. And Landon and Sara together has some major chemistry going on – and it extended far past the physical. I loved being able to feel the fun and friendship between the two, and then see those feeling begin to grow. Sara was a bit frustrating at times for me, and even though I could certainly understand her reaction to some things, I totally agreed with her mother - "Sara, you're going to have to get over yourself sooner or later."
Which brings me to one one of my favorite character from the book - Sara’s mother Geneva. She certainly had been dealt a bad hand, but boy did I love her outlook on life. I loved the relationship between Sara and Geneva, it was so honest and caring, and even though they may have been through some bad times together, you could tell that their mother/daughter relationship was rock solid. She was always full of spot-on advice - and I loved how she always knew when to interject a bit of humor to break the tension…
This was another great read from Donna Fasano – one that should find its way to everyone’s TBR!
I received this book from the author for an honest review but have also purchased this book.
I just loved the friendship between Sara, Heather, and Cathy – their banter had me laughing and you could really tell these three ladies cared deeply for one another. It was clear from their actions and from some of the stories told that they always had each other’s backs and would continue to be each other’s strength in times of need.
Landon was such an interesting character. As his story unfolds and we learn more about his past, it was hard not to fall for him even more. And Landon and Sara together has some major chemistry going on – and it extended far past the physical. I loved being able to feel the fun and friendship between the two, and then see those feeling begin to grow. Sara was a bit frustrating at times for me, and even though I could certainly understand her reaction to some things, I totally agreed with her mother - "Sara, you're going to have to get over yourself sooner or later."
Which brings me to one one of my favorite character from the book - Sara’s mother Geneva. She certainly had been dealt a bad hand, but boy did I love her outlook on life. I loved the relationship between Sara and Geneva, it was so honest and caring, and even though they may have been through some bad times together, you could tell that their mother/daughter relationship was rock solid. She was always full of spot-on advice - and I loved how she always knew when to interject a bit of humor to break the tension…
“Oh, you can do all manner of preaching to yourself,” Geneva said. “You can make all sorts of promises. But your heart isn't like a puppy. It can’t be trained. You can’t teach it to sit, roll over, stay. If your heart wants to wee on the carpet, honey, that’s just what it’s going to do.”
This was another great read from Donna Fasano – one that should find its way to everyone’s TBR!
I received this book from the author for an honest review but have also purchased this book.
October 22, 2018
***** A Touching, Suspenseful, and A-typical Romance!
This extremely well written romance immediately pulled me in. Starting off with a detailed and comical description of chaos from leaky pipes, the lead female protagonist, Sara, a professional chef in the midst of trying to bake a batch of her famous cookies, gets help from the out-of-towner, Lodan, who just happens to be nearby and provides a helping hand. Mixed in with wonderful back and forth bantering and camaraderie between Sara and her gal-pals, the book proceeds with a sweet and sexy romance that has you smiling and ‘ahhing’ all at once. But then things begin to shift, as new, deeper elements are introduced. While Sara and Lodan continue to get to know one another better, their back stories slowly get revealed, and with that, we find out that events in each of their pasts might have tied them together now much more solidly than any simple boy-meets-girl romance could ever do. Touching, suspenseful, and informative about something I knew nothing about, I highly recommend this atypical romance!
This extremely well written romance immediately pulled me in. Starting off with a detailed and comical description of chaos from leaky pipes, the lead female protagonist, Sara, a professional chef in the midst of trying to bake a batch of her famous cookies, gets help from the out-of-towner, Lodan, who just happens to be nearby and provides a helping hand. Mixed in with wonderful back and forth bantering and camaraderie between Sara and her gal-pals, the book proceeds with a sweet and sexy romance that has you smiling and ‘ahhing’ all at once. But then things begin to shift, as new, deeper elements are introduced. While Sara and Lodan continue to get to know one another better, their back stories slowly get revealed, and with that, we find out that events in each of their pasts might have tied them together now much more solidly than any simple boy-meets-girl romance could ever do. Touching, suspenseful, and informative about something I knew nothing about, I highly recommend this atypical romance!
May 24, 2017
This is a fun story that will make you laugh as well as some true sad times that makes you want to cry. They will need to heal their hearts their meeting will make you laugh I really loved this story. Humor has a way of bring the best out of the worst times. I really liked Sarah she is very lovable she is trying to get over the lost of her husband and will have trouble dealing with issues when Landon story come to light. Landon is very likable as well, he does have secrets that could make him lose Sarah when the truth comes out. I liked this so far out of this series. It really is a wonderful emotional read that you will love.
It is well written with people who are normal with issues just like you and I. I really loved the scenes, the author gives you detail that really pulls you in. I loved the humor that really helps these two pull their strength from within.
*********************
It is well written with people who are normal with issues just like you and I. I really loved the scenes, the author gives you detail that really pulls you in. I loved the humor that really helps these two pull their strength from within.
*********************
January 18, 2015
Wow.. Another fabulous book to add yo your collection by Donna Fasano. Such a sweet and sentimental book.This book takes place in Ocean City , Maryland where three friends Cathy, Heather and Sara try to keep their shops afloat. Sara is rescued from a disaster by newcomer Landon who happened to be from the Midwest. Things seemed to be happening fast and feelings were stirring up towards Landon. Sara was a little scared could she be falling for Landon this fast? Could Landon possibly feel the same way about her? With out giving too much away you find out how Landon overcame a surgery and found himself yearning to be near the ocean. Little did he know that the ocean was where his heart would take him.
August 20, 2018
5 stars
I purchased Ocean City Boardwalk Series book 1: Follow His Heart by Donna Fasano and this review was given freely.
Set in October,Widow and Baker Sara meets Grill owner Cathy's customer Landon when a leaking pipe threatens to end her business. Landon left Kansas when odd dreams and then his family selling the farm sent him on a quest that lead him to New Jersey and the ocean. Attraction at first site, steamy love scenes, the teasing love of good friends, organ donation, and caring for a disabled parent make this an interesting and emotion packed full length romance. An excellent introduction to the characters and the series.
5
I purchased Ocean City Boardwalk Series book 1: Follow His Heart by Donna Fasano and this review was given freely.
Set in October,Widow and Baker Sara meets Grill owner Cathy's customer Landon when a leaking pipe threatens to end her business. Landon left Kansas when odd dreams and then his family selling the farm sent him on a quest that lead him to New Jersey and the ocean. Attraction at first site, steamy love scenes, the teasing love of good friends, organ donation, and caring for a disabled parent make this an interesting and emotion packed full length romance. An excellent introduction to the characters and the series.
5
December 13, 2014
Sara is a widow trying to get over the loss of her beloved husband. Her friends Heather and Cathy are as good as sisters to her. Her disabled mother is also a great source of support, but nothing has prepared her for the return of her husband Greg's heart into her life. Specially not when it comes packaged inside another man...Landon. I just could not put down the story halfway. Had to read through the night to know how everything turned out.
December 13, 2014
Sara is a widow trying to get over the loss of her beloved husband. Her friends Heather and Cathy are as good as sisters to her. Her disabled mother is also a great source of support, but nothing has prepared her for the return of her husband Greg's heart into her life. Specially not when it comes packaged inside another man...Landon. I just could not put down the story halfway. Had to read through the night to know how everything turned out.
August 23, 2018
I laughed and cried and loved every morsel.
I’m once again in awe of Donna’s skill with words. She never fails to make me laugh with her descriptions and let loose a few tears of joy. I can’t wait for the next in what I hope will be a continuing series surrounding these friends.
I’m once again in awe of Donna’s skill with words. She never fails to make me laugh with her descriptions and let loose a few tears of joy. I can’t wait for the next in what I hope will be a continuing series surrounding these friends.
September 13, 2018
Wow!
What a beautiful; and astounding story! The bond between friends is portrayed beautifully and the humour between them; LOL!! Read:
Steaming, hot harvesting...
Meadow mowing...
Mucking the stall...
Passionate plowing...
I was howling!!
The story of Sarah and Landon's journey to a happily ever after is not to be missed!
What a beautiful; and astounding story! The bond between friends is portrayed beautifully and the humour between them; LOL!! Read:
Steaming, hot harvesting...
Meadow mowing...
Mucking the stall...
Passionate plowing...
I was howling!!
The story of Sarah and Landon's journey to a happily ever after is not to be missed!
September 1, 2018
Short and sweet. Funnily enough the paranormal twist wasn't that much of a deal for me, but the hardest thing to believe was how these three women could be friends, especially with someone as annoying as Cathy. But hey, I really enjoyed it, and I'm ready for the next one !
September 14, 2018
Good romance
I enjoyed this story with its elements of the unexplainable. It was interesting to watch Landon struggle with feeling he knew Sara somehow even as he fell in love with her. I thought Sara's reaction to what was causing Landon's reaction dragged on a little too long but chuckled when her mother told her to get over herself. It is a satisfying read.
I enjoyed this story with its elements of the unexplainable. It was interesting to watch Landon struggle with feeling he knew Sara somehow even as he fell in love with her. I thought Sara's reaction to what was causing Landon's reaction dragged on a little too long but chuckled when her mother told her to get over herself. It is a satisfying read.
December 29, 2015
Following His Heart, (Ocean City Boardwalk 1), Donna Fasano.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
I’ve read a couple of Donna’s books now, and they’re perfect stand alone romances, which after all the serialized ones that are so prevalent now is a real treat. This is labelled Ocean City One and I’m making an assumption that Sara's friends Cathy and Heather will be getting their own books. I love those kind of connected romances, where we already know some of the characters and their story, but each book focuses especially on one person.
Anyway, this book is Sara's story. She’s living with her mum, though in separate flats, and has a bakery in the same building as her good friends have their businesses, a cafe for Cathy and a B&B for Heather. Landon comes to the rescue in a somewhat dramatic fashion one morning when the ancient pipes break suddenly, which could spell disaster and great expense for the trio. ( and I love the “lose my cookies” part! ) I love Sara, she’s clearly had some past problems with her mum being disabled and needing her help and her husband dying in an accident, and yet she’s always cheerful, always ready to help people. She’s in need of some good news, and when Landon arrives in town there’s an undeniable attraction between them, and her friends try to push them closer.
Landon, he’s a lovely guy, with a strange story of how he arrived in Ocean City, and some secrets he’s keeping but he happily jumps in and does the essential repairs saving the girls from disaster, then offers to see to all the plumbing while he’s there, and Sara lets him stay in her flat while she moves downstairs with her mum.
Sara and Landon soon become very close and he’s always in her company it seems, joining her on deliveries, cooking her meals, and even joining their famous monthly girls night out. All looks good but he feels he has to level with Sara when he decides to stay around the area, and she’s shocked, gobsmacked at what he tells her, and it brings back some bad times along with a whole fear for the future. She’s not sure at one point if Landon has just played her, and she avoids him after the big reveal....her mum and friends are so sad – it looked as if finally Sara had found something good in her life and they think she’s over reacting.
I really felt for both of them, for Landon, though he’d lived with the feelings and dreams for so long it was more a confirmation of an idea for him than a shock, but poor Sara was totally floored, a real bolt from the blue. When the premise first came up she was kind of “its possible but not really” and never really believed it, thought it was all wishful thinking, dreaming and imagination, so when she gets concrete proof she’s scared, doesn’t know how to react or what to do and to be honest I really understood that. It must have brought up a reminder of the bad times and the grief she went through. Its going to take a lot of acceptance on her part to bring them back together, but its the kind of happy ending so many people would love in real life.
I’ve read about the phenomenon in this story before, and it’s something that’s well documented empirically, though there’s still not scientific proof. I often think things that appear scientifically impossible are often just problems that we’ve not yet got that far in science to prove. Think of how electricity, telephones, cameras, televisions etc would have been viewed years ago. Vaccinations stopping sickness, people able to travel by plane, train or car etc all would seem impossible before we knew how to do them, and maybe this is just one of those things where it happens but we can’t yet work out why.
Stars: Five, its a great solid read, a lovely story, though one I’m unlikely to re read.
ARC supplied by author.
January 20, 2015
You’ve heard the cliché that says “every story has already been told,” right? At a certain level of abstraction, that’s true. The specifics of character and plot may differ, but there are a limited number of basic stories. It amazes me how authors are able to put their own unique twists on a basic story and end up with something that still feels fresh and new. This goes double (or maybe quadruple) for the romance genre where every book is the same basic story.
Following His Heart made me go “wow” in this regard. At its core, it is the basic romance. Girl meets boy, they take a romantic roller coaster ride fluctuating between, if not love and hate, at least dislike and like a whole bunch, then the happily-ever-after ending. There are minor characters that act as confidants and comedic foils for the heroine and hero, while giving the story more depth. (Primarily the heroine’s disabled mother, plus her best friends, Heather and Cathy.)
But the twists, what set this story apart from a typical romance, is a strange turn the story takes that I’ve described as a combination of a little supernatural and horror-lite, although I’d be quick to say that romance readers who don’t normally gravitate to these genres shouldn’t find this too much of a departure from the norm to be objectionable. I found it thought-provoking in ways I’d have never anticipated.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
Following His Heart made me go “wow” in this regard. At its core, it is the basic romance. Girl meets boy, they take a romantic roller coaster ride fluctuating between, if not love and hate, at least dislike and like a whole bunch, then the happily-ever-after ending. There are minor characters that act as confidants and comedic foils for the heroine and hero, while giving the story more depth. (Primarily the heroine’s disabled mother, plus her best friends, Heather and Cathy.)
But the twists, what set this story apart from a typical romance, is a strange turn the story takes that I’ve described as a combination of a little supernatural and horror-lite, although I’d be quick to say that romance readers who don’t normally gravitate to these genres shouldn’t find this too much of a departure from the norm to be objectionable. I found it thought-provoking in ways I’d have never anticipated.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
December 20, 2014
We never really know how much we have until it's gone. No one understands that better than Susan. Her husband passed away after many loving years of marriage, and she's left with grief and pain that seems so real. That is, until Logan, a complete stranger comes into her life. Logan has had his share of heartache as well, especially when his farm was sold, that was his entire life. He packed a bag and headed to Ocean City, and then he met Susan. Something seems to be going on inside Logan though, it's like he knows her, but he's not quite sure how, and the flashes of the sunny beach, the familiar smells, why does he keep feeling this way? Will Susan finally be done with her grief? Will Logan figure out what's going on within him? Will Susan and Logan be a perfect match for each other? A true story of romance, this book draws you in to the lives of the people within the story. You laugh, you cry, and you learn to love again.
December 14, 2014
Reading a book by Donna Fasano is like getting the best warm hug.
Do you believe some love never dies? Have you ever wished for a love that would last beyond your lifetime?
Sara thought she had that kind of love and is not looking for another. She was widowed tragically very young.
She wasn't interested in looking for another life partner.
Landon lived his entire life in the midwest wishing only to be able to work his family's farm.
Suddenly he is having dreams about the ocean and something is pulling him to follow strange feelings.
You will fall in love with these characters and love the friendship of three women.
I can easily imagine reading more about each of them.
I was allowed a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
I can't wait for this series to continue.
Do you believe some love never dies? Have you ever wished for a love that would last beyond your lifetime?
Sara thought she had that kind of love and is not looking for another. She was widowed tragically very young.
She wasn't interested in looking for another life partner.
Landon lived his entire life in the midwest wishing only to be able to work his family's farm.
Suddenly he is having dreams about the ocean and something is pulling him to follow strange feelings.
You will fall in love with these characters and love the friendship of three women.
I can easily imagine reading more about each of them.
I was allowed a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
I can't wait for this series to continue.
December 31, 2014
First, I really enjoyed the tastes and yummy descriptions in this story; set in a bakery, this story takes off with delicious twists and turns in so many ways. Aside from the lovely food descriptions (which the author is so nice to include a few recipes at the end for), the story is a sweet romance with an interesting...I'd almost say spooky...twist.
Unlike many romances, the hero and heroine fall for each other very quickly and enjoy their growing relationship until unexpected complications put a hiccup on their growing love. The setting is lovely, the characters have hearts of gold, and the plot keeps moving from one page to the next. In other words, it's a wonderful, short romance as a romance should be.
Unlike many romances, the hero and heroine fall for each other very quickly and enjoy their growing relationship until unexpected complications put a hiccup on their growing love. The setting is lovely, the characters have hearts of gold, and the plot keeps moving from one page to the next. In other words, it's a wonderful, short romance as a romance should be.
January 16, 2015
“I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review”.
I have to say I was hooked right from the beginning. Both Landon and Sara had me intrigued from the start and wondered what circumstance brought these two souls together and now I know why. Love the way that Landon felt a connection to Sara right away but couldn't explain why. Glad you explain it later on in the book as I was going out of my mind to find out "What happened?" Thank you so much for this wonderful story and wishes that it would continue for the her two other friends as well. Hope they will find their happily ever after as well.
I have to say I was hooked right from the beginning. Both Landon and Sara had me intrigued from the start and wondered what circumstance brought these two souls together and now I know why. Love the way that Landon felt a connection to Sara right away but couldn't explain why. Glad you explain it later on in the book as I was going out of my mind to find out "What happened?" Thank you so much for this wonderful story and wishes that it would continue for the her two other friends as well. Hope they will find their happily ever after as well.
January 26, 2015
Wonderfully heartwarming story that you must not miss. After losing her husband at such an early age Sara Carson lives her life keeping busy. She owns her own business, has wonderful friends, and helps her mother when she needs her. She's content. Maybe not happy but content. Small town Kansas farmer Landon Richards comes to town being drawn to the ocean for reasons he can't explain but once he lands in Ocean City he feels "at home". They are immediately drawn to each other but as their relationship develops strange dreams plague Landon and unveil truths that could tear them apart.
I highly recommend this book, it is one that will stay with you.
I highly recommend this book, it is one that will stay with you.
January 13, 2015
Poignant and loving tale.
This is the kind of book I love to discover. Wonderful characters with human foibles but good hearts. The joy of new love and the heartache of loss go hand in hand. Exploring our feelings about transplants, this tells a story of loss, rebuilding, and finally love rediscovered. I would love to learn more about these three friends and especially more about Landon and Sara. I MOST highly recommend Following His Heart.
This is the kind of book I love to discover. Wonderful characters with human foibles but good hearts. The joy of new love and the heartache of loss go hand in hand. Exploring our feelings about transplants, this tells a story of loss, rebuilding, and finally love rediscovered. I would love to learn more about these three friends and especially more about Landon and Sara. I MOST highly recommend Following His Heart.
May 30, 2016
I bought this book after buying book 2 in Ms. Fasano's series first. I did read this one first, however. I had to. I really like these characters. I love that the heroine has such good friends. I love Landon, the hero, and the issues he faced and overcame. I enjoyed how the two were brought together. Sara's occupation as a baker adds warmth to the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
December 14, 2014
What a touching story. I was completely drawn into this book from the very beginning. I laughed, cried and laughed some more. The characters were great. Definitely a must read. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review, which in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
January 31, 2015
Enjoyed this book
This is a beautiful story about love, loss, stages of mourning and the fear that Sarah was having when she was falling for Landon. Don't want to give to much info. I don't want to spoil it for anyone. Thanks for sharing D Fasano
This is a beautiful story about love, loss, stages of mourning and the fear that Sarah was having when she was falling for Landon. Don't want to give to much info. I don't want to spoil it for anyone. Thanks for sharing D Fasano
July 24, 2015
I live in penns grove nj
I know the areas the author is talking about, and I think that added a little more to my enjoyment of the book. I loved it, read it all at one sitting. Looking forward to more from this author
I know the areas the author is talking about, and I think that added a little more to my enjoyment of the book. I loved it, read it all at one sitting. Looking forward to more from this author
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