The Sweetheart Bargain
Shirley Jump

Genre:
Contemporary
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating:

You can’t teach an old dog new tricks—unless you’re a Sweetheart Sister…

The Sweetheart Sisters, a trio of sassy, well-meaning grannies (who aren’t against a sip of bourbon with breakfast) are ready to dispense advice and help create happy endings with a little of what they do best—meddling.

Animal therapist Olivia Linscott is the Sweetheart Sisters’ first target. Running from a bad marriage and a lousy job, Olivia is determined to save the dog shelter she inherited from the mother she never knew and, above all, to protect her broken heart. The Sisters want to tie the spirited young do-gooder to wounded helicopter pilot Luke Winslow, but the intended pair keeps slipping the leash.

Luke’s dreams were shattered by a career-ending eye injury. Adrift and bitter, the last thing he wants is romantic involvement. But when a golden retriever in worse shape than he is scratches on the door, the dog brings in a whole lot more than puppy love…

Series: A Sweetheart Sisters Novel (Book 1)

Review

Olivia Linscott receives some life-altering news; her biological mother has left her property in Florida. She grew up with a great and loving adoptive family but after a recent divorce and some unresolved issues, Olivia decides to throw caution to the wind and go to Florida. It is only when she arrives, she starts to question her decision, especially after running into her new, disgruntle neighbor.

Luke Winslow, a rescue helicopter pilot, needs space and time at this point in his life. A terrible accident left him wounded, scarred and questioning his next step. Not to mention, Luke is feeling guilty about the lost of his friend after the accident. When a sweet beauty moves in next door, he fights to stay away but with a bit of interference by his grandmother and her friends, a few wounded animals and Olivia’s smile, he is losing the battle quickly.

This is the perfect feel good book to read during the summer months. I have never read anything by Ms. Jump but after reading The Sweetheart Bargain, I will most definitely pick up one of her books. The characters in this book are so rich, funny and warm. I love a small town romance and this didn’t disappoint. The book is kind of cookie cutter to some small town romances that I’ve read but there is something warm and distinct that makes this book a great read.

Besides, the sweetheart sisters and the quirky secondary characters, I loved the main characters, Olivia and Luke. Olivia is a character that most can relate to because she is just trying to find her way in the world. Once she starts to develop feelings Luke, she has to make another decision…should she leave her family and friends to stay in Florida.

I wanted to bop Luke at times. He is so wounded (which I loved!) and frightened that he starts to push Olivia away when things heats up. The constant back and forth wore on my nerves. I wanted to strangle him but his pain and suffering made it enduring.

Overall, I have to recommend this book. There are a lot of characters that are weaved into the story. I can’t wait to see more of them in the upcoming books.

Reviewed by Samantha