Barbara Valentin

False Start by Barbara Valentin (Audio Edition)
Narrated by: Wendy Rich Stetson
Assignment: Romance #1

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ I quite enjoyed this story, and it left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling. I listened to it pretty much all in one go, with exceptions for a few short pauses here and there. I felt the chemistry between Nick and Mattie right away which was great and I enjoyed watching Mattie change her outlook on life and herself for the better. The story was well written, the romance was sweet, there were some amusing bits and the characters felt true and honest. I had the thought after reading it that this could have easily been a true story. I have not read this author before, but I will check out her back list.

Wendy Rich Stetson delivered her narration well. She had a few different character voices, which made it enjoyable and easy to listen to.

* I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. *

Original review posted at: http://paragraphsandpetticoats.blogspot.ca/… (mais)

I freely chose to review this book. Help Wanted is a delightful story of Claire Mendez, a married woman with four boys and a stay at home dad named Paul who's quite handsome man even though they'd been married for fifteen years. When Paul lost his job, he decided staying at home for the boys was a good thing, but Claire tried to get him back in suits of corporate America and he didn't want to give up his dreams. Claire is burned out from her job, realized that her dream of becoming a best selling author was not going to happen. Frustrated beyond words, she finally pens a letter to the plate spinner advice columnist asking for help and is surprised by the answer! Now, I wish I had read book one to see how it began!… (mais)

This was an immensely entertaining read. It has a brilliant blend of emotions, from sadness to laughter and a bit of love spread throughout.

I found that the author created characters who had depth and a variety of personalities. It was very interesting to read along as the two main characters interacted, as they were polar opposites, but seemed to really click. I was really drawn in by the fact that they were brought together from an unhappy incident, but made the best of the situation. It was great, as well,to see the leading lady step outside her comfort zone and really try something.

I liked the pace of the story. I did find it a bit hard to latch onto in the beginning, but after the first few pages, I was completely hooked.the author wrote the story very fluidly, but still gave you lots of opportunity to be surprised.

I found the premise of the story very engaging. It drew me in and really made me want to see what happened next. I am not a religious person at all, but I was still keen to see what happened in the church music program, and with our main characters.

The supporting characters were done very well. Each had a purpose in the story, whether good or bad, but they always provided something interesting for the read. I loved the characters who gave the main characters support and love, even if it is hard love.

If you want a fun, romantic read to enjoy, I highly recommend giving this book a go.

I received this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion .… (mais)