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Swift River Valley #4
Echo Lake
In snowy Swift River Valley, unexpected romance is just around the corner�
Heather Sloan has landed her dream job—the renovation of Vic Scarlatti's stately 1912 country home overlooking the icy waters of Echo Lake in Knights Bridge, Massachusetts. It's the perfect project for the family business, but for once, Heather is in charge.
Diplomatic Security Service agent Brody Hancock left Knights Bridge at eighteen, a few steps ahead of arrest and the wrath of Heather's older brothers. Though Brody had never planned to return, Vic, a retired diplomat and friend, needs his help.
Staying at Vic's guest house makes it impossible to avoid running into a Sloan at every turn—especially Heather. Seeing her again has affected Brody more than he wants to admit. But Heather is wary of Brody's sudden interest in her, and she suspects there's more to his homecoming than he's letting on�
Set against the scenic backdrop of a New England winter, Echo Lake is a captivating tale of family, friends and the possibility of new love.
Heather Sloan has landed her dream job—the renovation of Vic Scarlatti's stately 1912 country home overlooking the icy waters of Echo Lake in Knights Bridge, Massachusetts. It's the perfect project for the family business, but for once, Heather is in charge.
Diplomatic Security Service agent Brody Hancock left Knights Bridge at eighteen, a few steps ahead of arrest and the wrath of Heather's older brothers. Though Brody had never planned to return, Vic, a retired diplomat and friend, needs his help.
Staying at Vic's guest house makes it impossible to avoid running into a Sloan at every turn—especially Heather. Seeing her again has affected Brody more than he wants to admit. But Heather is wary of Brody's sudden interest in her, and she suspects there's more to his homecoming than he's letting on�
Set against the scenic backdrop of a New England winter, Echo Lake is a captivating tale of family, friends and the possibility of new love.
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 27, 2015
229 people are currently reading
1277 people want to read
About the author
Carla Neggers
157Ìýbooks1,593ÌýfollowersCarla Neggers is the New York Times bestselling author of the Sharpe & Donovan series featuring Boston-based FBI agents Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan, and the popular Swift River Valley series set in the small, fictional New England town of Knights Bridge. With many bestsellers to her credit, Carla loves to write now as much as she did when she climbed a tree at age eleven with a pad and pen and spun stories perched on her favorite branch.
A native New Englander, Carla and her husband divide their time between their hilltop home in Vermont, a sofa bed at their kids' places in Boston and various inns, hotels and hideaways on their travels, frequently to Ireland.
Find out more and sign up for Carla's newsletter at CarlaNeggers.com.
A native New Englander, Carla and her husband divide their time between their hilltop home in Vermont, a sofa bed at their kids' places in Boston and various inns, hotels and hideaways on their travels, frequently to Ireland.
Find out more and sign up for Carla's newsletter at CarlaNeggers.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
February 6, 2015
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Vic is a retired ambassador and quite possibly losing his mind in his retirement. Phone calls that when answered there is no one there, items misplaced in his home, and a general feeling of unease. Adrienne, his housesitter for when he was away on work and now his wine expert and Heather, the woman in charge of renovating his home haven't noticed anything unusual but Vic is uncomfortable enough to call on Brody a DSS agent (Diplomatic Security Service) and friend. Brody grew up in the small town of Knights Bridge but left without looking back after an "incident" with Heather's brothers. Brody's not especially looking forward to being back but after a few meetings with Heather, he is starting to feel differently. As secrets, truths, and feelings get revealed our characters will learn a little bit about themselves while growing together.
First off, I have to say that my rating for this book fluctuated crazily as I was reading it, from 2 stars to 4 stars so my review may seem all over the place. Basically, I feel like the writing was high quality, interesting, and charming but I didn't read the story promised in the blurb. I wouldn't really call this a romance, mystery, or suspense; it probably falls under women's fiction or just general. In my synopsis I started with Vic, who is barely mentioned in the actual book blurb but this story is 80% about him. I commented in my notes how "in Vic's head too much in the beginning" before I realized he was more or less going to be the star of the show. Vic struggles over the decision to retire early, looking back over the moments of his life, and dealing with the reveal of a long held secret. Again, his character was interesting but not what I thought I signed up for.
This is fourth in a series and for the first couple pages I felt thrown into the story, as if I was suppose to know the characters and scene but after a few chapters I was able to nestle in. Echo Lake definitely offers a small town series feel, just be prepared for an overall feel instead of a focused concentrated interest on one main romance couple. It's not until the second half of the book that Brody and Heather show any sign of truly coming together and get any major screen time together. Even then, the process is pretty slow and except for a handful of paragraphs, this is basically a clean romance. Heather was the easier character to get to know as her family life (a little overwhelming and repetitive at times with the talk of her five older brothers) and feelings were discussed more. She came across sturdy and believable as a character but did not overly peak my interest. Brody was meant to be a stoic, still waters run deep, and man of few words, unfortunately, that was all I got from him as a reader. There weren’t enough pov scenes or screen time from Brody for him to become a prominent figure in my mind.
Even with all this said, I still found Brody and his, limited, interactions with Heather charming, which I have to put down to the author's writing style/voice and like I said, Vic was interesting if not a bit overdone with “someone’s out to get me� tangent. If you have read the previous books in the series and enjoy the author's writing then you will definitely want to continue with this one, past characters are sprinkled throughout and definitely some future ones. If looking for a comfortable mellow read and wanting to immerse yourself in the feeling of small town life with an open door into the life of an array of those town people's lives then this would be a good choice.
Vic is a retired ambassador and quite possibly losing his mind in his retirement. Phone calls that when answered there is no one there, items misplaced in his home, and a general feeling of unease. Adrienne, his housesitter for when he was away on work and now his wine expert and Heather, the woman in charge of renovating his home haven't noticed anything unusual but Vic is uncomfortable enough to call on Brody a DSS agent (Diplomatic Security Service) and friend. Brody grew up in the small town of Knights Bridge but left without looking back after an "incident" with Heather's brothers. Brody's not especially looking forward to being back but after a few meetings with Heather, he is starting to feel differently. As secrets, truths, and feelings get revealed our characters will learn a little bit about themselves while growing together.
First off, I have to say that my rating for this book fluctuated crazily as I was reading it, from 2 stars to 4 stars so my review may seem all over the place. Basically, I feel like the writing was high quality, interesting, and charming but I didn't read the story promised in the blurb. I wouldn't really call this a romance, mystery, or suspense; it probably falls under women's fiction or just general. In my synopsis I started with Vic, who is barely mentioned in the actual book blurb but this story is 80% about him. I commented in my notes how "in Vic's head too much in the beginning" before I realized he was more or less going to be the star of the show. Vic struggles over the decision to retire early, looking back over the moments of his life, and dealing with the reveal of a long held secret. Again, his character was interesting but not what I thought I signed up for.
This is fourth in a series and for the first couple pages I felt thrown into the story, as if I was suppose to know the characters and scene but after a few chapters I was able to nestle in. Echo Lake definitely offers a small town series feel, just be prepared for an overall feel instead of a focused concentrated interest on one main romance couple. It's not until the second half of the book that Brody and Heather show any sign of truly coming together and get any major screen time together. Even then, the process is pretty slow and except for a handful of paragraphs, this is basically a clean romance. Heather was the easier character to get to know as her family life (a little overwhelming and repetitive at times with the talk of her five older brothers) and feelings were discussed more. She came across sturdy and believable as a character but did not overly peak my interest. Brody was meant to be a stoic, still waters run deep, and man of few words, unfortunately, that was all I got from him as a reader. There weren’t enough pov scenes or screen time from Brody for him to become a prominent figure in my mind.
Even with all this said, I still found Brody and his, limited, interactions with Heather charming, which I have to put down to the author's writing style/voice and like I said, Vic was interesting if not a bit overdone with “someone’s out to get me� tangent. If you have read the previous books in the series and enjoy the author's writing then you will definitely want to continue with this one, past characters are sprinkled throughout and definitely some future ones. If looking for a comfortable mellow read and wanting to immerse yourself in the feeling of small town life with an open door into the life of an array of those town people's lives then this would be a good choice.
January 27, 2015
4 STARS
It was good to back to Swift River Valley. The characters are interesting, and I want to see more of them. Cute puppy too. The mystery was okay. Part of it I guessed early. The setting was small town in winter. Good drama and romance.
Heather Sloan is in charge of renovation of 1912 stately country home. She is the youngest child with six older brothers.
Brody Hancock he works as a Diplomatic Security Service agent. He has come back to his home town of Knights Bridge to look into things for Vic Scarlatti problems. He is on leave after something about a mission went bad.
Vic Scarlatti just retired from working the past 40 years in government. He was a Ambassador. He has some unexpected things happening to him.
Lots of wine tasting, about building wine cellar. Which I don't drink and don't plan to so that part was not too interesting for me. I have no way of judging that part of the story.
Has some snappy dialog. Great descriptions of scenery.
I enjoy Swift River Valley and would come back to visit there again.
I was given this ebook from Net Galley and Harlequin. In return I agreed to give honest review of Echo Lake.
It was good to back to Swift River Valley. The characters are interesting, and I want to see more of them. Cute puppy too. The mystery was okay. Part of it I guessed early. The setting was small town in winter. Good drama and romance.
Heather Sloan is in charge of renovation of 1912 stately country home. She is the youngest child with six older brothers.
Brody Hancock he works as a Diplomatic Security Service agent. He has come back to his home town of Knights Bridge to look into things for Vic Scarlatti problems. He is on leave after something about a mission went bad.
Vic Scarlatti just retired from working the past 40 years in government. He was a Ambassador. He has some unexpected things happening to him.
Lots of wine tasting, about building wine cellar. Which I don't drink and don't plan to so that part was not too interesting for me. I have no way of judging that part of the story.
Has some snappy dialog. Great descriptions of scenery.
I enjoy Swift River Valley and would come back to visit there again.
I was given this ebook from Net Galley and Harlequin. In return I agreed to give honest review of Echo Lake.
April 10, 2015
My heart for that ending. <3 I just love this series so much. There is something about this setting, these characters, and their stories that I fall in love with book after book. I would have liked just a *bit* more development on the romantic side, but oh, how I adored this. And the characters, especially head-strong Heather and intense Brody. Not to mention, the wonderful network of friends and family in this fictional town of Knights Bridge. I am such a sucker for amazing familial relationships, especially, so I loved all of the scenes with Heather and her five older brothers. Gah, I can't wait for more! :)
September 17, 2015
I struggled rating this book and ended up at a 4 instead of a 3 because while the story wasn't really my taste, I think its well written and is a solid small town women's fiction novel. If you're a fan of this type of book, where there's not a lot of action but tons of introspection, related characters, and small town coziness, then this is a book for you.
June 8, 2019
I was bored for most of it. I didn't care about any of the characters or even what was going on in the house. I didn't even care about the dog!
January 27, 2015
One of the best parts about NetGalley is that it allows me to try authors that have been on my radar but maybe not had any priority for me. Since the decline of Mallery's Fool's Gold series and the end of Jill Shalvis's Lucky Harbor series I've been throwing my net out looking for a good small town replacement. Over Christmas I read Neggars's Christmas novella and enjoyed it enough to move on to the next in the series, Echo Lake.
Here's the summary:
In snowy Swift River Valley, unexpected romance is just around the corner�
Heather Sloan has landed her dream job—the renovation of Vic Scarlatti's stately 1912 country home overlooking the icy waters of Echo Lake in Knights Bridge, Massachusetts. It's the perfect project for the family business, but for once, Heather is in charge.
Diplomatic Security Service agent Brody Hancock left Knights Bridge at eighteen, a few steps ahead of arrest and the wrath of Heather's older brothers. Though Brody had never planned to return, Vic, a retired diplomat and friend, needs his help.
Staying at Vic's guest house makes it impossible to avoid running into a Sloan at every turn—especially Heather. Seeing her again has affected Brody more than he wants to admit. But Heather is wary of Brody's sudden interest in her, and she suspects there's more to his homecoming than he's letting on�.
Set against the scenic backdrop of a New England winter, Echo Lake is a captivating tale of family, friends and the possibility of new love.
Sounds promising enough, right? While I enjoyed it enough while I was reading it, in the time between finishing it and writing this review, I've found a few holes. I think that while I'm not ruling Neggers out, I'm probably also not going to rush to read the next one. The romance has little to hang on, they barely knew each other as teens and they barely spend any time together in the book. I couldn't quite put my finger on when and how they fell in love. It certainly wasn't in this book. That said, the attraction between them is clear enough, and the scene of their first kiss was really terrific, with just enough heat and romance to make it memorable for me.
Heather is really the central figure of the book, well overshadowing Brody, who does little but hang around and has little to recommend him. Heather is fairly fleshed out and I love that she doesn't shrink under the observation of her five older brothers. She's happy working for the family but she also knows she wants more than that, and is willing to chase those dreams, even before it makes a convenient bow at the end.
I did have some problems with the book. First, there's no real explanation for why Brody left town, aside from some references to a fight involving Heather's brothers. They are wary of each other, but the animosity I'd expect from the summary just isn't there. I understand there's a fine line between making a believable bad boy and making him irredeemable and Neggers just doesn't nail it for me. It was lame. Second, the entire plot with Vic needing Brody's help? Also lame. Third, Heather is renovating this giant house, but she spends 90% of her time in the cellar. And last, winter? Seriously? I live in South Dakota. We have winter and snow and ice. If there's too much ice on the ground to walk to your car, waiting an hour or two for fresh snow to fall on top of it is NOT going to make it safe for you to drive home in.
Would I read more Neggars? Sure, but I'd probably wait to read a review of a spectacular one first, another mediocre one would convince me to move on, too many books, too little time.
Echo Lake was released today
Here's the summary:
In snowy Swift River Valley, unexpected romance is just around the corner�
Heather Sloan has landed her dream job—the renovation of Vic Scarlatti's stately 1912 country home overlooking the icy waters of Echo Lake in Knights Bridge, Massachusetts. It's the perfect project for the family business, but for once, Heather is in charge.
Diplomatic Security Service agent Brody Hancock left Knights Bridge at eighteen, a few steps ahead of arrest and the wrath of Heather's older brothers. Though Brody had never planned to return, Vic, a retired diplomat and friend, needs his help.
Staying at Vic's guest house makes it impossible to avoid running into a Sloan at every turn—especially Heather. Seeing her again has affected Brody more than he wants to admit. But Heather is wary of Brody's sudden interest in her, and she suspects there's more to his homecoming than he's letting on�.
Set against the scenic backdrop of a New England winter, Echo Lake is a captivating tale of family, friends and the possibility of new love.
Sounds promising enough, right? While I enjoyed it enough while I was reading it, in the time between finishing it and writing this review, I've found a few holes. I think that while I'm not ruling Neggers out, I'm probably also not going to rush to read the next one. The romance has little to hang on, they barely knew each other as teens and they barely spend any time together in the book. I couldn't quite put my finger on when and how they fell in love. It certainly wasn't in this book. That said, the attraction between them is clear enough, and the scene of their first kiss was really terrific, with just enough heat and romance to make it memorable for me.
Heather is really the central figure of the book, well overshadowing Brody, who does little but hang around and has little to recommend him. Heather is fairly fleshed out and I love that she doesn't shrink under the observation of her five older brothers. She's happy working for the family but she also knows she wants more than that, and is willing to chase those dreams, even before it makes a convenient bow at the end.
I did have some problems with the book. First, there's no real explanation for why Brody left town, aside from some references to a fight involving Heather's brothers. They are wary of each other, but the animosity I'd expect from the summary just isn't there. I understand there's a fine line between making a believable bad boy and making him irredeemable and Neggers just doesn't nail it for me. It was lame. Second, the entire plot with Vic needing Brody's help? Also lame. Third, Heather is renovating this giant house, but she spends 90% of her time in the cellar. And last, winter? Seriously? I live in South Dakota. We have winter and snow and ice. If there's too much ice on the ground to walk to your car, waiting an hour or two for fresh snow to fall on top of it is NOT going to make it safe for you to drive home in.
Would I read more Neggars? Sure, but I'd probably wait to read a review of a spectacular one first, another mediocre one would convince me to move on, too many books, too little time.
Echo Lake was released today
December 31, 2015
It’s hard not to fall in love with Rohan right at the first page. Really. Who can resist a frisky Golden Retriever puppy leading humans on a merry chase through the snow?
*I received an e-ARC of Echo Lake from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange
for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Read on for my thoughts on Echo Lake. No true spoilers, promise.
We meet the most adorable character in this novel at the very first page. Rohan, an abandoned Golden Retriever puppy has escaped from his rescuer’s home and taken off for a romp through the snow.
The major characters are introduced rather quickly through the search for the happy, cuddly, mischievous Rohan. Vic Scarlatti, Adrienne Portale, Heather Sloan are searching in various places for the escaped puppy. Somehow, Heather has gotten the outdoor search area. Following puppy tracks in the snow, Rohan is leading her where she hopes he did not end up� the water. Sighting the pup caught in the icy water causes Heather’s heart to sink as she quickly, but cautiously slides down the snowy bank to reach Rohan. Gathering her dwindling strength she grabs the pup from the water and turns to slowly make her way back up the bank � hopefully without them both falling back into the frigid water. Seeing a shadow above her, she looks up into the eyes of Brody Hancock.
Brody had left Knights Ridge years ago, back when a very young Heather had a serious crush on the bad boy. He is back in town temporarily to help his friend, Vic Scarlatti, a retired diplomat who took up residence here a short time ago. He has owned the home for a few years, but while he was traveling around the world’s hot spots Adrienne did house-sitting duty for him. The daughter of a friend and former lover, Adrienne is a wine expert who can do her work pretty much anywhere � so the house-sitting job fits right into her lifestyle.
Since Vic retired he has been noticing small things happening around his home. Nothing major, nothing that has him worried for his safety but enough to ask Brody, a DSS agent to come to town for a visit and do some investigating. While in town, Brody not only has to worry about Vic, but running into the Sloan brothers again � Heather’s 5 brothers � who don’t exactly see him in a good light. Which makes falling for the grown up Heather a bit, shall we say, interesting.
Echo Lake is at heart, a love story � Heather and Brody’s love story. With a small mystery to solve along with falling in love.
Since Swift River Valley is an ongoing series about an entire community, I worried a bit about keeping characters straight since I have not read all of the books in the series. I didn’t have to be concerned. Characters from the past novels were introduced naturally throughout the story, with a sentence or two about how they got together and where they are today. So it was a nice backstory and update rolled up in a very brief, but flowing into the storyline result.
I enjoyed Echo Lake and would recommend it. It is a love story, a charming love story and who doesn't need that in today’s world. A side mystery that really isn't that serious, but does add to the tensions of the story � but this is Brody and Heather’s happily ever after. So enjoy. Oh, and fall into puppy love with Rohan ‘cos he is adorable.
*I received an e-ARC of Echo Lake from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange
for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Read on for my thoughts on Echo Lake. No true spoilers, promise.
We meet the most adorable character in this novel at the very first page. Rohan, an abandoned Golden Retriever puppy has escaped from his rescuer’s home and taken off for a romp through the snow.
The major characters are introduced rather quickly through the search for the happy, cuddly, mischievous Rohan. Vic Scarlatti, Adrienne Portale, Heather Sloan are searching in various places for the escaped puppy. Somehow, Heather has gotten the outdoor search area. Following puppy tracks in the snow, Rohan is leading her where she hopes he did not end up� the water. Sighting the pup caught in the icy water causes Heather’s heart to sink as she quickly, but cautiously slides down the snowy bank to reach Rohan. Gathering her dwindling strength she grabs the pup from the water and turns to slowly make her way back up the bank � hopefully without them both falling back into the frigid water. Seeing a shadow above her, she looks up into the eyes of Brody Hancock.
Brody had left Knights Ridge years ago, back when a very young Heather had a serious crush on the bad boy. He is back in town temporarily to help his friend, Vic Scarlatti, a retired diplomat who took up residence here a short time ago. He has owned the home for a few years, but while he was traveling around the world’s hot spots Adrienne did house-sitting duty for him. The daughter of a friend and former lover, Adrienne is a wine expert who can do her work pretty much anywhere � so the house-sitting job fits right into her lifestyle.
Since Vic retired he has been noticing small things happening around his home. Nothing major, nothing that has him worried for his safety but enough to ask Brody, a DSS agent to come to town for a visit and do some investigating. While in town, Brody not only has to worry about Vic, but running into the Sloan brothers again � Heather’s 5 brothers � who don’t exactly see him in a good light. Which makes falling for the grown up Heather a bit, shall we say, interesting.
Echo Lake is at heart, a love story � Heather and Brody’s love story. With a small mystery to solve along with falling in love.
Since Swift River Valley is an ongoing series about an entire community, I worried a bit about keeping characters straight since I have not read all of the books in the series. I didn’t have to be concerned. Characters from the past novels were introduced naturally throughout the story, with a sentence or two about how they got together and where they are today. So it was a nice backstory and update rolled up in a very brief, but flowing into the storyline result.
I enjoyed Echo Lake and would recommend it. It is a love story, a charming love story and who doesn't need that in today’s world. A side mystery that really isn't that serious, but does add to the tensions of the story � but this is Brody and Heather’s happily ever after. So enjoy. Oh, and fall into puppy love with Rohan ‘cos he is adorable.
January 24, 2015
Of the four books, I know ECHO LAKE is going to be one of my favorites. I enjoy books where the characters are at major turning points in their lives. They are unsure of where to turn and that certain someone comes along to help guide the way. The main characters involved in this book are at a crossroads in their life. Heather Sloan is the only girl of five siblings. She has never left Knights Bridge and can’t really imagine ever leaving. Outwardly, she appears content with her life but inwardly, she is restless. Brody Hancock has returned to town to help a friend in need. He has also found himself wondering what is next for him. His job as a Diplomatic Security Service agent has left him restless. He believes he can’t have more than he has now. He also finds himself wanting to make amends with the town he left so long before.
I loved the instant heat between Heather and Brody. I know that sometimes that can seem a little fast, but I really felt the attraction between the two. I loved when Brody realized that the awkward preteen who used to trail behind her brothers and him had really grown up. Their banter was fun to read and I was rooting for them to realize they could both have what they wanted out of life. I have to say their HEA moment was just perfect!
The other characters in the story were a lot of fun. I have always loved the affection and bond among the Sloan siblings. Being an only child, I find myself envying the relationship Heather has with her brothers. They can be stifling and over protective, but there is clearly love behind their motives.
It wouldn’t be a Carla Neggers story without a little bit of a mystery. Brody is in town because his friend Vic is convinced someone is playing tricks on him. With the mysterious Andrianne constantly around, Brody has to wonder if she has more at stake than just house sitting occasionally for Vic. I won’t give away too much, but I liked that outcome of the mystery.
I loved the instant heat between Heather and Brody. I know that sometimes that can seem a little fast, but I really felt the attraction between the two. I loved when Brody realized that the awkward preteen who used to trail behind her brothers and him had really grown up. Their banter was fun to read and I was rooting for them to realize they could both have what they wanted out of life. I have to say their HEA moment was just perfect!
The other characters in the story were a lot of fun. I have always loved the affection and bond among the Sloan siblings. Being an only child, I find myself envying the relationship Heather has with her brothers. They can be stifling and over protective, but there is clearly love behind their motives.
It wouldn’t be a Carla Neggers story without a little bit of a mystery. Brody is in town because his friend Vic is convinced someone is playing tricks on him. With the mysterious Andrianne constantly around, Brody has to wonder if she has more at stake than just house sitting occasionally for Vic. I won’t give away too much, but I liked that outcome of the mystery.
August 1, 2015
This was a fantastically well written novel, allowing Neggers� style to really shine through. I really like how she develops Swift River in such a manner that new readers can easily pick up the story, but those who have read the previous novels in the series will be welcomed back to town. Her vibrant descriptions and enticing narrative bring this world to life for the reader. I will admit that it took me a bit to really get into the story, but once I did I thoroughly enjoyed it. I found that there was so much lead up to the actual story, that once things began to happen, they raced through. The plot wasn’t quite as strong as many other novels that I’ve read by this author, but was enjoyable just the same.
Neggers has filled this novel with characters that really come to life. I enjoyed the complexity of the relationship between main characters. Neither of their lives were easy, but were so vastly different from one another. The supporting cast that they found themselves with was also quite entertaining. The overbearing, overprotective, older brothers could drive even a saint insane, but their sense of loyalty was so infectious that you couldn’t help but like them.
As a whole, this was an enjoyable read. It was sweet with that hint of suspense that keeps you on your toes.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Neggers has filled this novel with characters that really come to life. I enjoyed the complexity of the relationship between main characters. Neither of their lives were easy, but were so vastly different from one another. The supporting cast that they found themselves with was also quite entertaining. The overbearing, overprotective, older brothers could drive even a saint insane, but their sense of loyalty was so infectious that you couldn’t help but like them.
As a whole, this was an enjoyable read. It was sweet with that hint of suspense that keeps you on your toes.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Read
January 12, 2016"Neggers once again wows with detailed descriptions and a realistic perspective as she spins her intricate web of romance, mystery and drama. She keeps readers enthralled while emphasizing past goings-on and introducing her newest shining stars" (RT Book Reviews, 4 1/2 stars).
Swift River Valley, book 4
Swift River Valley, book 4
December 14, 2015
All the cold, snowy descriptions along with the restlessness of the characters made me not like this book very much. I just wanted to get through it to see where the romance would lead.
December 4, 2016
Tutvustuse leiab blogist
August 31, 2019
Reviewed by Andrea
Book provided by NetGalley
Carla Neggers is one of my favorite new authors. ÌýI love her Sharpe and Donovan novels so I didn't expect anything different from this one.
This book is #4 in the Swift River Valley series and takes place in Knights Bridge, MA - which is about as quaint as you would expect it a small, New England town to be.
Heather is a home town girl - meaning, she was born, raised and never planning to leave Knights Bridge. ÌýShe's also the baby sister to her 5 overprotective, but loving, brothers. ÌýWhile she is happy in Knights Bridge, she does want to travel, see the world and have adventures.
While chasing a lost puppy in the snow, she stumbles upon Brody Hancock, a man who has returned to Knights Bridge after a successful career as a Diplomatic Security Service agent. ÌýNo Carla Neggers story can be complete without some mystery, which brings you to the real reason why Brody is back in Knights Bridge.
The romance between Brody and Heather is almost instant. ÌýSometimes that isn't a good thing because there is no drama with that. ÌýAnd while there is banter between them, I think from the moment they meet in the snow their romance budded. ÌýAnd you know what? ÌýI loved it. ÌýThey are perfect for each other and their ending was just what I wanted!
Please, check out Carla Neggers Swift River Valley series. ÌýYou'll be hooked!
Book provided by NetGalley
Carla Neggers is one of my favorite new authors. ÌýI love her Sharpe and Donovan novels so I didn't expect anything different from this one.
This book is #4 in the Swift River Valley series and takes place in Knights Bridge, MA - which is about as quaint as you would expect it a small, New England town to be.
Heather is a home town girl - meaning, she was born, raised and never planning to leave Knights Bridge. ÌýShe's also the baby sister to her 5 overprotective, but loving, brothers. ÌýWhile she is happy in Knights Bridge, she does want to travel, see the world and have adventures.
While chasing a lost puppy in the snow, she stumbles upon Brody Hancock, a man who has returned to Knights Bridge after a successful career as a Diplomatic Security Service agent. ÌýNo Carla Neggers story can be complete without some mystery, which brings you to the real reason why Brody is back in Knights Bridge.
The romance between Brody and Heather is almost instant. ÌýSometimes that isn't a good thing because there is no drama with that. ÌýAnd while there is banter between them, I think from the moment they meet in the snow their romance budded. ÌýAnd you know what? ÌýI loved it. ÌýThey are perfect for each other and their ending was just what I wanted!
Please, check out Carla Neggers Swift River Valley series. ÌýYou'll be hooked!
August 10, 2018
I liked this story, its a romance about to people who weren't really at that point looking for a romance. She works for her fathers company and he is a special agent who protects diplomats. An ambassador retires to this small community to a house he has kept but used only occasionally while he was working IE vacations. Since he has retired however and is staying there more permanently he comes to feel that someone may be preying on him but isn't sure because incidents could be put down to he himself having done these things and then forgotten since its things like something moved or a door open. He decides he should have protection just in case someone really is after him so he calls the special agent to join him. We find out in the course of things that this is the agents home community but he left it right after high school and eventually became a special agent. The agent meets the girl when she comes to work on plans for renovating the house. To see what happens with the agent and the girl as well as the ambassador you should read the book as I do not want to spoil the rest by telling you how it turns out.
May 25, 2017
I started this series at book 4 because I couldn't find books 1 through 3 through my library.
The reader really annoyed me at first. Her accents were inconsistent and wrong for the part of the country, and her pausing was also unnatural.
The storyline was a bit fast and predictable. No great story writing here. Glad I didn't buy the book.
However, for an easy summer read, an easy romance that quickly resolves itself into marriage between people who knew each other as children, but have only been interested in each other for less than a season, it was fine and eventually I hardly heard the inadequacies of the reader. Except when it was glaring. It was quick and easy, and obviously setting up for the next book or two in the series. There is no room for interpretation -- soon the entire town will be married off.
The reader really annoyed me at first. Her accents were inconsistent and wrong for the part of the country, and her pausing was also unnatural.
The storyline was a bit fast and predictable. No great story writing here. Glad I didn't buy the book.
However, for an easy summer read, an easy romance that quickly resolves itself into marriage between people who knew each other as children, but have only been interested in each other for less than a season, it was fine and eventually I hardly heard the inadequacies of the reader. Except when it was glaring. It was quick and easy, and obviously setting up for the next book or two in the series. There is no room for interpretation -- soon the entire town will be married off.
November 7, 2018
Heather Sloan has landed her dream job—the renovation of Vic Scarlatti's stately 1912 country home overlooking the icy waters of Echo Lake in Knights Bridge, Massachusetts. It's the perfect project for the family business, but for once, Heather is in charge.
Diplomatic Security Service agent Brody Hancock left Knights Bridge at eighteen, a few steps ahead of arrest and the wrath of Heather's older brothers. Though Brody had never planned to return, Vic, a retired diplomat and friend, needs his help.
Staying at Vic's guest house makes it impossible to avoid running into a Sloan at every turn—especially Heather. Seeing her again has affected Brody more than he wants to admit. But Heather is wary of Brody's sudden interest in her, and she suspects there's more to his homecoming than he's letting on�
Diplomatic Security Service agent Brody Hancock left Knights Bridge at eighteen, a few steps ahead of arrest and the wrath of Heather's older brothers. Though Brody had never planned to return, Vic, a retired diplomat and friend, needs his help.
Staying at Vic's guest house makes it impossible to avoid running into a Sloan at every turn—especially Heather. Seeing her again has affected Brody more than he wants to admit. But Heather is wary of Brody's sudden interest in her, and she suspects there's more to his homecoming than he's letting on�
June 4, 2025
Winter at Knight's Bridge. Heather Sloan has gotten a job as designer for the remodel of Vic Scarlatti's 1912 home on Echo Lake in Knight's Bridge. And along for the ride, is the town's former bad boy, Brody Hancock, who has a history with Heather's brothers. And along for the ride is Adrienne Portale, a noted wine blogger, who's working on developing Vic's wine collection. Along with Heather and Brody's growing attraction, are Vic's claims of someone gaslighting him. Hang ups on phone calls, thing's moving in the house, etc. But amidst the attraction between Heather and Brody are their jobs and goals. Brody is in the Diplomatic Security Service, protecting diplomats, and such, and Heather's home is Knight's Bridge.
March 25, 2017
I am a fan of the Swift River Valley books. I have read several, and have grown to love this small town. This book focuses on the romance between Brody, the former town bad boy, who is now a Diplomatic Security Service agent, and Heather, the youngest of the Sloan family. As with all the SRV books, there is also a little mystery. I cannot lie, I sort of saw THAT coming, but I give Neggers credit for trying to make me think there was going to be more to the mystery. The thing that really keeps me coming back for more is the community of SRV. I love that feeling of everyone knowing each other, and helping each other. Since this one featured another Heather, we got to spend more time with the Sloan family, which is always amusing. Another fine addition to this charming series.
December 16, 2017
Mix the close-knit community of a small town with the possibility of a second chance romance and you have my attention. I loved getting to see the youngest Sloan sibling in her element and giving her a chance at the childhood crush that got away made it even better for me. Brody left town steps away from being a delinquent and has returned as a respected federal agent. Watching him reconcile the little girl he knew with the woman she is now tickled my fancy. I’m really enjoying that even though the stories in this series have a strong suspenseful element to them, the stories themselves are more light and fun than dark and dangerous.
September 18, 2019
I submitted this review after listening to the audiobooks of this title.
Heather, hometown girl, strong, commitmented and only sister of 5 brothers. Making her own way, despite the interference of her brothers.
Brody, DSS officer, back to the town he grew up in, and then fled. Back to help a friend, who is having problems, back for some R&R, after a grueling mission.
Two people meet, neither recognize the older version of the people they had once known. Attraction flares.
Time for you to read the whole story, in the author's words, that way, you will definitely have an entertaining experience.
Heather, hometown girl, strong, commitmented and only sister of 5 brothers. Making her own way, despite the interference of her brothers.
Brody, DSS officer, back to the town he grew up in, and then fled. Back to help a friend, who is having problems, back for some R&R, after a grueling mission.
Two people meet, neither recognize the older version of the people they had once known. Attraction flares.
Time for you to read the whole story, in the author's words, that way, you will definitely have an entertaining experience.
February 24, 2017
This is a fun series - I am becoming attached to the characters who carry from one book to the next, though the explanation of the Quabbin Reservoir in each book is a little much. I guess that is provided so that one does not need to read these books in order. I had actually read this one a while ago, not aware that it is part of the series; now I am reading the entire series. This is a nice, light romance, and good entertainment! I just heard that Carla Neggers will publish her newest entry in this series later this year. I look forward to that one!
June 29, 2020
While the Swift River Valley series is enjoyable and well-written, I personally need a thicker plot in order to stay engaged. As always, the romance between Heather Sloan and Secret Service agent Brody Hancock was innocent and slow-moving. At times, I found myself being more intrigued by Vic Scarlatti's wine cellar than I was by their romance.
The close-knit small town of Knights Bridge is all that Heather has ever known, and I was happy to see her dreams come to fruition. 2.5 stars.
The close-knit small town of Knights Bridge is all that Heather has ever known, and I was happy to see her dreams come to fruition. 2.5 stars.
June 1, 2017
Heather and Brody
I really like this series about a north eastern town where everybody knows everyone else. Brody grew up in the town and came back as an FBI agent to figure out what was going on with a retired ambassador. He meets Heather when she rescues a puppy. Well worth reading.
I really like this series about a north eastern town where everybody knows everyone else. Brody grew up in the town and came back as an FBI agent to figure out what was going on with a retired ambassador. He meets Heather when she rescues a puppy. Well worth reading.
December 30, 2018
2.5 but would probably be 3 if I had read other in the series. This book did not stand on its own very well. It was obviously and episode in a series.
Cozy winter setting in a small town complete with ice skating, puppy, and romance.
Cozy winter setting in a small town complete with ice skating, puppy, and romance.
October 13, 2019
Unfortunately, this was another no story, story.
Not much went on during the whole story, and the little that did was not all that interesting. Not even much heat between the main characters that supposedly were in love....
Not much went on during the whole story, and the little that did was not all that interesting. Not even much heat between the main characters that supposedly were in love....
December 28, 2023
I loved this book so much.
Brody left Knights Bridge at 18 with no intention of ever returning.
Heather and her brothers grew up in Knight's Bridge and still live there.
Vic reaches out to Brody for help.
Heather and Brody clash at first but then end up falling for each other
Brody left Knights Bridge at 18 with no intention of ever returning.
Heather and her brothers grew up in Knight's Bridge and still live there.
Vic reaches out to Brody for help.
Heather and Brody clash at first but then end up falling for each other
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January 5, 2024Heather Sloan has landed the renovation of Vic Scarlitti's country home on Echo lake. Her 5 brothers helps with the renovation. This is her home town. But Brody Hancock comes back also from her childhood. She hasn't seen him in years. They soon make a connection!
August 4, 2017
I couldn't really get into this book. It was slow, slow, slow, and then Boom! they're getting married.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2017
Cute story and charming characters!
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