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Here's the Scoop
It's not every day that a woman has to go into hiding from the online world, but when you're being hunted by the paparazzi because of a rockstar's lies, you do what you gotta do. Sonya knows all too well, but she's tired of running and hiding. That's why when Max Ross, the man who caused her old life to go up in flames, walks back into her life with his niece in tow, she decides to face the music. With a little help from her fifth-grade class and a whole lot of humor, Sonya sets out to prove that love can conquer all - even when the paparazzi are lurking in the bushes.
Max Ross may be a movie promoter, but he's not exactly a master of his own destiny. When he stumbles back into Sonya's life when he walks into her fifth-grade classroom with his orphaned niece, he knows he's got a lot of making up to do. Unfortunately, Sonya's not exactly making it easy for him. With the school musical fast approaching and the rockstar coming back into the limelight, Max has his work cut out for him. But with a little help from the kids and a whole lot of wit, he's determined to show Sonya that love is worth fighting for - even if it means going up against the paparazzi and the online world.
In this lighthearted and laugh-out-loud romantic comedy, Sonya and Max will have to avoid the limelight, avoid the trolls, and survive the fifth-grade musical if they want to find love. With plenty of laughs, a touch of drama, and a whole lot of heart, this book is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Max Ross may be a movie promoter, but he's not exactly a master of his own destiny. When he stumbles back into Sonya's life when he walks into her fifth-grade classroom with his orphaned niece, he knows he's got a lot of making up to do. Unfortunately, Sonya's not exactly making it easy for him. With the school musical fast approaching and the rockstar coming back into the limelight, Max has his work cut out for him. But with a little help from the kids and a whole lot of wit, he's determined to show Sonya that love is worth fighting for - even if it means going up against the paparazzi and the online world.
In this lighthearted and laugh-out-loud romantic comedy, Sonya and Max will have to avoid the limelight, avoid the trolls, and survive the fifth-grade musical if they want to find love. With plenty of laughs, a touch of drama, and a whole lot of heart, this book is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
350 pages, ebook
Published May 8, 2023
About the author
Sheridan Jeane
12 books41 followersSheridan Jeane writes both contemporary, small-town romantic comedies featuring strong-willed heroines and the men who love them, as well as exciting Victorian-era books filled with spies, intrigue, and romance. She has released five historical romances in her Secrets and Seduction series as well as a standalone romance Gambling on a Scoundrel.
Sheridan's newest series is The Way to a Woman's Heart, and the first trilogy in the series is Coming Home>. If features Slow Simmer, Here's the Scoop, and From Bitter to Sweet.
Sheridan is the daughter of an artist/art-therapist/professor mother and an opera-loving/computer engineer/do-it-yourself father. Growing up, she assumed parents routinely converted their garages into well-stocked art studios complete with potter's wheels, kilns, and every color of acrylic paint under the sun. Didn't every second-grader nail shingles on the roof of the new 2-car garage their dad built? And didn't every family host the occasional after-opera cast party?
No?
Go figure!
Surrounded by art and music, Sheridan immersed herself in books. Her parents encouraged this love, and one summer while she was away at summer camp, her dad covered her entire bedroom wall with floor-to-ceiling bookcases.
Sheridan's Books:
Her standalone novel Gambling on a Scoundrel has earned the distinction of being one of the three most checked-out romance novels in the Self-e library system.
Her Secrets and Seduction series includes:
Lady Cecilia Is Cordially Disinvited for Christmas
It Takes a Spy...
Lady Catherine's Secret
Once Upon a Spy, and
My Lady, My Spy
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 31, 2023
After the tragic loss of his sister Hailey and her husband in a house fire, Max Ross has become the legal guardian of his niece Emma. Balancing work with grieving, he's changed his life to make sure she's forever safe with him.
Imagine his surprise when he meets Emma's teacher and realises its his lost love Essie. She may have changed her appearance and even her name, but he'd never forget her. If only he could get her to forgive him...
Sonya is horrified to see Max and realise he's Emma's Uncle. 5 years ago, her life was torn apart after the 'regular guy' she was in love with ended up being the ex-boyfriend of famous singer Raven. A fact she learned when she was named a homewrecker on every news outlet. The smear campaign went on well over a year, until she managed to slip under the radar by changing her name.
Max and Sonya can't deny the sizzling chemistry that still exists between them, but Emma has to come first. As they volunteer together on the school musical, can they work through their past hurts? Or will a public discovery of Sonya's new identity change everything?
Thank you to Author @sheridanjeane for providing me with a copy of this book, the second in the Way To A Woman's Heart series. I loved book 1 and this was a great follow up. I'm a sucker for a second chance romance in a small town, and this story fit the bill!
It was nice to see Ford (Max's brother) & Mara from book 1, but so sad to learn that their sister Hailey passed between the 2 books. There was one or two 🔥 scenes which were very welcomed, and added to the building chemistry.
I'm really enjoying this series and can't wait to read book 3 next: From Bitter to Sweet ❤
Imagine his surprise when he meets Emma's teacher and realises its his lost love Essie. She may have changed her appearance and even her name, but he'd never forget her. If only he could get her to forgive him...
Sonya is horrified to see Max and realise he's Emma's Uncle. 5 years ago, her life was torn apart after the 'regular guy' she was in love with ended up being the ex-boyfriend of famous singer Raven. A fact she learned when she was named a homewrecker on every news outlet. The smear campaign went on well over a year, until she managed to slip under the radar by changing her name.
Max and Sonya can't deny the sizzling chemistry that still exists between them, but Emma has to come first. As they volunteer together on the school musical, can they work through their past hurts? Or will a public discovery of Sonya's new identity change everything?
Thank you to Author @sheridanjeane for providing me with a copy of this book, the second in the Way To A Woman's Heart series. I loved book 1 and this was a great follow up. I'm a sucker for a second chance romance in a small town, and this story fit the bill!
It was nice to see Ford (Max's brother) & Mara from book 1, but so sad to learn that their sister Hailey passed between the 2 books. There was one or two 🔥 scenes which were very welcomed, and added to the building chemistry.
I'm really enjoying this series and can't wait to read book 3 next: From Bitter to Sweet ❤
April 1, 2023
Here’s the Scoop was the first book by Sheridan Jeane that I’ve read. And, while it’s the second book in the Coming Home trilogy, it wasn’t difficult to follow, nor did I feel as though I was missing pieces of the story. The general plot of this book was an interesting concept, but the book fell just a little bit flat to me. This might be personal point of contention, but I’m not a huge fan of books that rely so heavily on the inner monologue of characters, and this one really, really did. When Sonya and Max (the main characters) are reunited by accident, and realize they will continue to interact, both overly ruminate on their relationship that failed five years ago. Over and over and over. Also, when it was not inner monologue, almost of all the history/ back story/ current story is filled in with awkward (and very weirdly personal) conversations with so many different people, basically anyone who would listen. Finally, one small thing that really bugged me was how Sonya repeatedly mentions (out loud and in her head) how she left the school she taught at in Philadelphia because the neighbors was bad/unsafe. It was just kind of unnecessary and felt overly privileged. All in all, this book just wasn’t for me. It was a little too long, and too easy to see how it could’ve been streamlined and improved. I do hope this book was maybe just a one-off and I think I will definitely try to read something else by the author.
Special thanks to Net Galley and Flowers and Fullerton Publishing for this advanced reviewer copy in exchange for my (very) honest opinion and review.
Special thanks to Net Galley and Flowers and Fullerton Publishing for this advanced reviewer copy in exchange for my (very) honest opinion and review.
February 24, 2023
[Very, very minor spoilers in terms of included themes ahead]
This story was sweet, a little spicy, and also included honest depictions of grief, loss, and two types of PTSD reactions (one in a child and one in an adult, over different things) without making the story stressful or dark. I was very impressed with the way the author didn't just gloss over the troubles her characters were having, but was able to keep them from entirely taking over the story. I did cry a few times, but I'm quick to cry, so take that how you will.
The characters were well-written and engaging, and I really enjoyed reading what seemed like very healthy relationships and a supportive community gathering together to support the characters who needed it. There were some spicy scenes, so if you're looking for fade-to-black, this is not your book, but they also weren't lessons in anatomy, so I'd consider them lower spice. I really recommend this series to people looking for something sweet, without a ton of stress, with great characters set in a beautiful small-town setting, who want a fairly quick and comfortable read. Enjoy!
This story was sweet, a little spicy, and also included honest depictions of grief, loss, and two types of PTSD reactions (one in a child and one in an adult, over different things) without making the story stressful or dark. I was very impressed with the way the author didn't just gloss over the troubles her characters were having, but was able to keep them from entirely taking over the story. I did cry a few times, but I'm quick to cry, so take that how you will.
The characters were well-written and engaging, and I really enjoyed reading what seemed like very healthy relationships and a supportive community gathering together to support the characters who needed it. There were some spicy scenes, so if you're looking for fade-to-black, this is not your book, but they also weren't lessons in anatomy, so I'd consider them lower spice. I really recommend this series to people looking for something sweet, without a ton of stress, with great characters set in a beautiful small-town setting, who want a fairly quick and comfortable read. Enjoy!
May 5, 2023
Here’s the Scoop is the first book I've read by Sheridan Jeane . Going in I had no idea that this was the second book in the Coming Home trilogy, but it can also be read as a standalone.
Sonya was a pleasant, friendly and charming. Her character was likable but I didn't love her character. She was kind and sweet but she should have stood up for herself more. Her relationship with Emma was lovely.
After his sisters demise Max was now the legal guardian of his niece Emma. Max and Emma were both grieving their loss while also adjusting to the new living arrangement. I loved Max's relationship with his niece, he was kind, attentive and patient with Emma. He was willing to do everything in his power to help her cope with her grief.
I liked this book and all the characters. Its based in a small town with a close knit community that support each other. This book deals with some heavy topics like loss of parents, PTSD and cyber bullying. Overall I liked this but I recommend looking up trigger warnings before picking this up.
Sonya was a pleasant, friendly and charming. Her character was likable but I didn't love her character. She was kind and sweet but she should have stood up for herself more. Her relationship with Emma was lovely.
After his sisters demise Max was now the legal guardian of his niece Emma. Max and Emma were both grieving their loss while also adjusting to the new living arrangement. I loved Max's relationship with his niece, he was kind, attentive and patient with Emma. He was willing to do everything in his power to help her cope with her grief.
I liked this book and all the characters. Its based in a small town with a close knit community that support each other. This book deals with some heavy topics like loss of parents, PTSD and cyber bullying. Overall I liked this but I recommend looking up trigger warnings before picking this up.
March 25, 2023
Second chance romance. Found family.
Five years after their relationship collapsed, Sonya and Max reconnect. Now being in the same small town, they have mutual friends and some common goals. They both want what’s best for Max’s niece, who happens to be in Sonya’s 5th grade class, and they need to work together on the class play. Can they work through the issues from their past to make a future together?
Please note, this book addresses a child losing her parents, as well as cyber bullying.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Here’s the Scoop to come out May 8, 2023.
Five years after their relationship collapsed, Sonya and Max reconnect. Now being in the same small town, they have mutual friends and some common goals. They both want what’s best for Max’s niece, who happens to be in Sonya’s 5th grade class, and they need to work together on the class play. Can they work through the issues from their past to make a future together?
Please note, this book addresses a child losing her parents, as well as cyber bullying.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Here’s the Scoop to come out May 8, 2023.
March 24, 2023
Sonya's hounded by paparazzi because of a rockstar's lies. Max is the one responsible and he tries to make it up to her....
I enjoyed Sonya and Max. They are fun together. Love their banter. The kids are cute. Their antics have me laughing. Love the small townish feel. The story is sweet. Enjoyed it a lot.
Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
I enjoyed Sonya and Max. They are fun together. Love their banter. The kids are cute. Their antics have me laughing. Love the small townish feel. The story is sweet. Enjoyed it a lot.
Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
November 15, 2023
It was a cute read. Felt a little jumpy here and there but overall good. I love Max and Sonya together. I was getting anxious that Raven was going to ruin things for them again but was happy she grew up in the 5 years and actually took accountability.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2023
Thank you to the author, Sheridan Jeane, Flowers and Fullerton Publishing, and NetGalley for giving me an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book will be published on May 8, 2023.
The plot and tropes for the book seemed promising, but it fell flat for me.
My main issues were in the first half of the book. The flow was off and it made the book feel stagnant. Why the MCs broke up 5 years ago was revealed right in the beginning, unlike other “typical” second chance romances, which I thought would be a good thing at first, but I think it hurt the book a little. We got more details of the break up as the story went. But, because we, the readers, knew the basics of what happened first, it felt like they were talking in circles the first half of the book. Also since the breakup kept getting mentioned, we didn’t really get the romance until further in the second half. I couldn’t really root for the couple because we didn’t get many scenes of them before the breakup.
The second half did look up. The romance and the found family aspect with the people in the community were enjoyable to read. The father-daughter relationship between Max and Emma were some of my favorite parts.
I feel like I shouldn’t have had to wait until the second half to get to the enjoyable parts, but I digress.
The plot and tropes for the book seemed promising, but it fell flat for me.
My main issues were in the first half of the book. The flow was off and it made the book feel stagnant. Why the MCs broke up 5 years ago was revealed right in the beginning, unlike other “typical” second chance romances, which I thought would be a good thing at first, but I think it hurt the book a little. We got more details of the break up as the story went. But, because we, the readers, knew the basics of what happened first, it felt like they were talking in circles the first half of the book. Also since the breakup kept getting mentioned, we didn’t really get the romance until further in the second half. I couldn’t really root for the couple because we didn’t get many scenes of them before the breakup.
The second half did look up. The romance and the found family aspect with the people in the community were enjoyable to read. The father-daughter relationship between Max and Emma were some of my favorite parts.
I feel like I shouldn’t have had to wait until the second half to get to the enjoyable parts, but I digress.
December 20, 2023
Featuring characters from the first book, Here's the Scoop by Sheridan Jeane touches on grief and cyberbullying. The story shows readers that we should live in the present and stop thinking about “what if”.
Summary: Sonya Gambit and Max Ross used to date 5 years ago but broke it off after his ex-girlfriend caused Sonya to be labelled a bad guy on the Internet. They meet again in Sewickley. They want to be cautious, but they also really want to be with each other.
Tropes/Genres:
• second-chance romance
• small town
• paparazzi
• crazy delusional ex-girlfriend
• grief and recovery
• (fifth-grade) school play <3
• contemporary fiction
Review: For the record, I loved Book 1, Slow Simmer. I enjoyed this second book as well. The writing is simple and easy to understand. Straightforward. I got engrossed in the story. This book teaches us to live in the present and cherish what we have.
Sonya and Max are so cute! There are scenes that made me tap the table because of the yearning. I can understand why she’s so scared of dating Max after the fiasco with Raven even though she knows she wants to be with him. Even celebrities can’t stand the harassment of the paparazzi, let alone a teacher who never expected to get thrown into the spotlight and dragged through the mud like that. The writing allowed me to empathise with her, and not just her – Emma. This story is not only about Sonya x Max. It’s also about Emma’s dealing with the loss of her parents overnight. Emma is so mature, and I love her.
Admittedly, I was quite shocked at the opening of the book, where readers were told that Emma’s parents had died overnight in a house fire. Not a spoiler. It came so suddenly because they were fine in Book 1. Then I remember that that’s what death can be – sudden. It’s quite sad… The way Max had to act strong because he couldn’t break down when Emma was barely holding on. There were scenes that made me tear up reading them…
I recommend this book to people who like reading second-chance romance and about sudden guardianship. This book mentions the death of a family member, so read it with care.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this book. And thank you to the author for the instant access! I’ve never seen something like that. Honestly amazed and honoured.
Bonus: There are 5 recipes written at the end of the book! I find that so cute.
Related Reviews:
Slow Simmer (Book 1)
Here's the Scoop (Book 2)
From Bitter to Sweet (Book 3)
Summary: Sonya Gambit and Max Ross used to date 5 years ago but broke it off after his ex-girlfriend caused Sonya to be labelled a bad guy on the Internet. They meet again in Sewickley. They want to be cautious, but they also really want to be with each other.
Tropes/Genres:
• second-chance romance
• small town
• paparazzi
• crazy delusional ex-girlfriend
• grief and recovery
• (fifth-grade) school play <3
• contemporary fiction
Review: For the record, I loved Book 1, Slow Simmer. I enjoyed this second book as well. The writing is simple and easy to understand. Straightforward. I got engrossed in the story. This book teaches us to live in the present and cherish what we have.
Sonya and Max are so cute! There are scenes that made me tap the table because of the yearning. I can understand why she’s so scared of dating Max after the fiasco with Raven even though she knows she wants to be with him. Even celebrities can’t stand the harassment of the paparazzi, let alone a teacher who never expected to get thrown into the spotlight and dragged through the mud like that. The writing allowed me to empathise with her, and not just her – Emma. This story is not only about Sonya x Max. It’s also about Emma’s dealing with the loss of her parents overnight. Emma is so mature, and I love her.
Admittedly, I was quite shocked at the opening of the book, where readers were told that Emma’s parents had died overnight in a house fire. Not a spoiler. It came so suddenly because they were fine in Book 1. Then I remember that that’s what death can be – sudden. It’s quite sad… The way Max had to act strong because he couldn’t break down when Emma was barely holding on. There were scenes that made me tear up reading them…
I recommend this book to people who like reading second-chance romance and about sudden guardianship. This book mentions the death of a family member, so read it with care.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this book. And thank you to the author for the instant access! I’ve never seen something like that. Honestly amazed and honoured.
Bonus: There are 5 recipes written at the end of the book! I find that so cute.
Related Reviews:
Slow Simmer (Book 1)
Here's the Scoop (Book 2)
From Bitter to Sweet (Book 3)
July 7, 2023
When Sonya leaves her boyfriend Max due to his ex-girlfriends actions, she basically has to go into hiding. She is supposedly the one who broke Max and Raven up even though that is not true. After being ran out of her first teaching job, she ends up in a small town teaching and loving it...that is until Max walks back into her life as the guardian of one of her students who just lost both of her parents due to a house fire. They are forced to spend more time together which Max is exciting about in hopes that he can win her back. When he co-director of the musical walks out, her volunteers to help with it. Some parents start to figure out who Sonya really is and start to bring it up but this time, Max defends her and sets the record straight. His niece is just adorable and the bond that she has with Sonya is so sweet. I loved the happy ending that they were able to work everything out. Even though it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone.
Thanks to NetGalley, Flowers and Fullerton, and Sheridan Jeane for the advanced copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, Flowers and Fullerton, and Sheridan Jeane for the advanced copy.
April 22, 2023
Once I got past the first third or so, Here’s The Scoop ended up being a nice, if ordinary, story. Sonya was forced to change her name and go into hiding after her boyfriend’s famous musician ex accused her of being a home wrecker, siccing her hoard of fans after Sonya. Five years later, Max is back in Sonya’s life after the tragic deaths of his sister and brother-in-law, leaving him as the guardian of his 11-year-old niece.
The first part, unfortunately, was plagued by stilted dialogue. The characters spoke in full paragraphs of exposition, telling, not showing the reader about the world of the story. However, once we’re further in, and the author stops over-explaining, the book relaxes into a sweet story of second chances and learning to choose love over bullying and fear.
Max is determined and respectful as he tries to win Sonya’s forgiveness, and adorable as a surrogate dad to his niece Emma. I enjoyed that we got to see Sonya at work as Emma’s truly excellent fifth-grade teacher, as well as her discovering that she had made friends who would not only support her but defend her against toxic behavior when her secret inevitably begins to come out and she’s revealed as the woman who supposedly “stole” Max.
I wasn’t able to get the first of the trilogy before reading Here’s the Scoop, which is meant to be the second, but I’ll look forward to reading it and the third one coming soon.
CW: Sibling/parental death (off page), bullying and online harassment.
Here’s the Scoop by Sheridan Jeane
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5 rounded down
🌶️ 🌶️ There just aren’t that many opportunities for sexy times when there’s an 11-year-old in the house
🍨🍲🍞 Gotta love men who cook
🚚📦 Might be the first time ever someone wanted to say yes to helping move
🌸📜🎭 National Treasure… the Musical!
Thank you to NetGalley and Flowers and Fullerton for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The first part, unfortunately, was plagued by stilted dialogue. The characters spoke in full paragraphs of exposition, telling, not showing the reader about the world of the story. However, once we’re further in, and the author stops over-explaining, the book relaxes into a sweet story of second chances and learning to choose love over bullying and fear.
Max is determined and respectful as he tries to win Sonya’s forgiveness, and adorable as a surrogate dad to his niece Emma. I enjoyed that we got to see Sonya at work as Emma’s truly excellent fifth-grade teacher, as well as her discovering that she had made friends who would not only support her but defend her against toxic behavior when her secret inevitably begins to come out and she’s revealed as the woman who supposedly “stole” Max.
I wasn’t able to get the first of the trilogy before reading Here’s the Scoop, which is meant to be the second, but I’ll look forward to reading it and the third one coming soon.
CW: Sibling/parental death (off page), bullying and online harassment.
Here’s the Scoop by Sheridan Jeane
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5 rounded down
🌶️ 🌶️ There just aren’t that many opportunities for sexy times when there’s an 11-year-old in the house
🍨🍲🍞 Gotta love men who cook
🚚📦 Might be the first time ever someone wanted to say yes to helping move
🌸📜🎭 National Treasure… the Musical!
Thank you to NetGalley and Flowers and Fullerton for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for an arc of this book. Below is my honest review.
This is the second book in series. It can be read as a standalone but aspects from the first will be spoiled.
Max Ross, who we met in the last book, has recently taken up guardianship of his niece Emma after her parents passed in a house fire. When he brings Emma back to school, he recognizes her teacher as the woman that broke his heart five years ago…except she is going by a completely different name. What?!
Max and Sonya were the couple you want to root for…their issues are not relatable, per se., but believable in the world where one’s family runs a production company. And, revealing their history is spread out over the course of the book keeping readers on their toes.
I loved Emma in the last book, and her parents, so I was crushed to read she was orphaned due to a house fire. Max won a lot of uncle points by stepping up and taking custody of Emma. I was honestly surprised it wasn’t Ford and Mara, but the explanation given made perfect sense.
Showing Max’s utter dedication towards being a wonderful guardian for Emma just made me root for him more and more. Yes, he made mistakes in his past but showed with everything he had that he grew and is kind and decent man. He definitely proved he deserved a second chance.
Sonya’s struggles were clearly defined. Her anxiety towards Max and any other love interest was clearly explained. Watching her walls crumble was a joy. Also, she showed just how much she loved Emma.
The support of all of Emma’s uncles, as well as their friends was so sweet and amazing to read. As sad as the underlying storylines were (the fire, the Raven issues, and more) the underlying love and joy were just so comforting to read. Raven was a solid “nemesis” and I thoroughly enjoyed the conclusion to that storyline. Darcy made for an excellent foil, although I wish that some motivation for her other than the “I am a Karen” that was provided.
Overall this is a solid book with a well rounded cast and a captivating plot. Highly recommend and I can’t wait for the next in the series.
Edit: I do wish there was a bit more care taken with language choice. I am not a fan of the use of crazy, insane, nut, nut-job, etc. Those word choices took me out of the story a bit.
CW: House fire and young child’s loss of parents, tertiary character with lung cancer, abandonment by parent.
This is the second book in series. It can be read as a standalone but aspects from the first will be spoiled.
Max Ross, who we met in the last book, has recently taken up guardianship of his niece Emma after her parents passed in a house fire. When he brings Emma back to school, he recognizes her teacher as the woman that broke his heart five years ago…except she is going by a completely different name. What?!
Max and Sonya were the couple you want to root for…their issues are not relatable, per se., but believable in the world where one’s family runs a production company. And, revealing their history is spread out over the course of the book keeping readers on their toes.
I loved Emma in the last book, and her parents, so I was crushed to read she was orphaned due to a house fire. Max won a lot of uncle points by stepping up and taking custody of Emma. I was honestly surprised it wasn’t Ford and Mara, but the explanation given made perfect sense.
Showing Max’s utter dedication towards being a wonderful guardian for Emma just made me root for him more and more. Yes, he made mistakes in his past but showed with everything he had that he grew and is kind and decent man. He definitely proved he deserved a second chance.
Sonya’s struggles were clearly defined. Her anxiety towards Max and any other love interest was clearly explained. Watching her walls crumble was a joy. Also, she showed just how much she loved Emma.
The support of all of Emma’s uncles, as well as their friends was so sweet and amazing to read. As sad as the underlying storylines were (the fire, the Raven issues, and more) the underlying love and joy were just so comforting to read. Raven was a solid “nemesis” and I thoroughly enjoyed the conclusion to that storyline. Darcy made for an excellent foil, although I wish that some motivation for her other than the “I am a Karen” that was provided.
Overall this is a solid book with a well rounded cast and a captivating plot. Highly recommend and I can’t wait for the next in the series.
Edit: I do wish there was a bit more care taken with language choice. I am not a fan of the use of crazy, insane, nut, nut-job, etc. Those word choices took me out of the story a bit.
CW: House fire and young child’s loss of parents, tertiary character with lung cancer, abandonment by parent.
May 7, 2023
Welcome back to small town Sewickley (just outside of Philly), and welcome back to the Ross family drama… except this book starts out after a family tragedy that happened to side characters we started to like in book one of the series.
Max Ross has taken custody of niece Emma after losing his big sister and brother-in-law in a devastating fire (happened between the two books). He is just getting her back to school after the tragic events, and discovers that her new fifth grade teacher is none other than the love of his life - the woman he lost, the woman who fled after an ex girlfriend, a crazy woman who’d left rehab too early and created a huge rumor that they were still together and Sonya was a homewrecker, chased out of LA, reported on in Here’s The Scoop. It was only because the crazy Raven was a huge rockstar with a huge fan base did it gain traction, and Sonya had to change her name, appearance and moved across the country … not to mention her no-good, trashy father came out of the woodwork to add fuel to the fire.
Now, Max and Sonya are back in each other’s lives because of Emma, and they’re working together on Emma’s school play. This is a brilliant second chance romance if ever there was one - except for the huge hurdles that keep coming out of nowhere.
Excellent storyline, very unique in the telling of a second chance romance in a small town setting. I really enjoyed the continuation of the characters and friendships from the first book (and can’t wait to get into book three)… but did there have to be the loss of the two characters? Couldn’t there have been another way to get him involved in the school play without killing them off?! That was so sad! I really liked them in book one!!
I definitely recommend this one, but do read book one first, be prepared for the parental loss before going in (happens before the book begins), and a crazy ex coming onto the scene who had been in rehab for substance abuse (not on the page, but discussed).
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Flowers and Fullerton, and this is my honest feedback.
Max Ross has taken custody of niece Emma after losing his big sister and brother-in-law in a devastating fire (happened between the two books). He is just getting her back to school after the tragic events, and discovers that her new fifth grade teacher is none other than the love of his life - the woman he lost, the woman who fled after an ex girlfriend, a crazy woman who’d left rehab too early and created a huge rumor that they were still together and Sonya was a homewrecker, chased out of LA, reported on in Here’s The Scoop. It was only because the crazy Raven was a huge rockstar with a huge fan base did it gain traction, and Sonya had to change her name, appearance and moved across the country … not to mention her no-good, trashy father came out of the woodwork to add fuel to the fire.
Now, Max and Sonya are back in each other’s lives because of Emma, and they’re working together on Emma’s school play. This is a brilliant second chance romance if ever there was one - except for the huge hurdles that keep coming out of nowhere.
Excellent storyline, very unique in the telling of a second chance romance in a small town setting. I really enjoyed the continuation of the characters and friendships from the first book (and can’t wait to get into book three)… but did there have to be the loss of the two characters? Couldn’t there have been another way to get him involved in the school play without killing them off?! That was so sad! I really liked them in book one!!
I definitely recommend this one, but do read book one first, be prepared for the parental loss before going in (happens before the book begins), and a crazy ex coming onto the scene who had been in rehab for substance abuse (not on the page, but discussed).
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Flowers and Fullerton, and this is my honest feedback.
April 2, 2023
This book was an ARC from Netgalley and Flowers from Fullerton. Thank you for the chance to read this sweet book!
This book was a very sweet second chance romance! It had a very lovable pair at the center with an even more lovable child at the heart of their story. If you are looking for an easy read that will make you smile this book hits all the marks. There is no massive drama to overcome, but focuses on two people who hold each other in their hearts can come back together and learn from past mistakes.
SPOILERS:
I didn't feel super prepared for the discussion of the way that Emma's parents died and there is so little focus on how Max sees Emma impacted by that trauma and how he helps her through.
However, at times I found it hard to read Sonya's inner monologue about the fallout from the paparazzi in the first round of their relationship. I found myself wondering why she couldn't leave it in the past. There isn't a lot of time devoted to showing us how truly impacted she was by that previous time and it made me want to see her move past it and let it go a lot faster than she did. Max was a wonderful character and Emma was the shining star, and I found my favorite parts of the book revolved around their interactions.
I didn't have a lot of personal investment or excitement when they were talking to people outside of the main characters and that was a bummer because I found myself really hopeful about the development of the relationship of the folks in Sonya's book club.
Beyond those things, it was still a very enjoyable read if you aren't looking for something very dramatic to read and want to tuck yourself away with a sweet book that has a feel-good HEA this is a good choice.
This book was a very sweet second chance romance! It had a very lovable pair at the center with an even more lovable child at the heart of their story. If you are looking for an easy read that will make you smile this book hits all the marks. There is no massive drama to overcome, but focuses on two people who hold each other in their hearts can come back together and learn from past mistakes.
SPOILERS:
I didn't feel super prepared for the discussion of the way that Emma's parents died and there is so little focus on how Max sees Emma impacted by that trauma and how he helps her through.
However, at times I found it hard to read Sonya's inner monologue about the fallout from the paparazzi in the first round of their relationship. I found myself wondering why she couldn't leave it in the past. There isn't a lot of time devoted to showing us how truly impacted she was by that previous time and it made me want to see her move past it and let it go a lot faster than she did. Max was a wonderful character and Emma was the shining star, and I found my favorite parts of the book revolved around their interactions.
I didn't have a lot of personal investment or excitement when they were talking to people outside of the main characters and that was a bummer because I found myself really hopeful about the development of the relationship of the folks in Sonya's book club.
Beyond those things, it was still a very enjoyable read if you aren't looking for something very dramatic to read and want to tuck yourself away with a sweet book that has a feel-good HEA this is a good choice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2023
Sonya is a 5th grade teacher just trying to lay low and make sure her recent identity doesn't get compromised. Max unfortunately looses his sister in a home fire and becomes sole guardian of his adorable niece Emma. When Max meets Sonya he automatically knows who she is, even with her new identity. Five years ago Sonya and Max were in a relationship until she left him and had to go into hiding just to protect herself from being bullied and threatened.
The chemistry between Max and Sonya was pure joy. The way they communicated with one another kept a smile on my face. Even though five years had passed, they never forgot one another.
The love and support Sonya received from her new group of friends could be felt through the entire book🥰
I loved how even though Emma lost both of her parents and Max lost his sister, he never broke down in front of Emma. She had her good and bad days but he made sure to always support her no matter what.
I'm a big foodie and I loved all of the different recipes that were mentioned in this book. To my surprise I was happy to find the recipes at the end of the book. I definitely will be trying them out. 👌🏽
Thank you to @netgalley and @sheridanjeane for allowing me to have an ARC.
The chemistry between Max and Sonya was pure joy. The way they communicated with one another kept a smile on my face. Even though five years had passed, they never forgot one another.
The love and support Sonya received from her new group of friends could be felt through the entire book🥰
I loved how even though Emma lost both of her parents and Max lost his sister, he never broke down in front of Emma. She had her good and bad days but he made sure to always support her no matter what.
I'm a big foodie and I loved all of the different recipes that were mentioned in this book. To my surprise I was happy to find the recipes at the end of the book. I definitely will be trying them out. 👌🏽
Thank you to @netgalley and @sheridanjeane for allowing me to have an ARC.
January 27, 2024
hiding from a paparazzi nightmare
Five years Sonya was caught in a media storm. Paparazzi followed her she was harassed on line and even had death threats based on allegations made by Max ex girlfriend. She left town and changed her appearance and her name and is now teaching fifth grade. She lives in terror of being discovered again and having to reinvent herself again. She is afraid to make friends or trust anyone but she is finally finding her place in this city and feels like she might have a home here. When she finds out Max is the guardian of one of her students and that she still has feelings for her she doesn’t know what to do.
The way social media can cause all this to happen to an innocent person is all too real. I made me think about what it must be like and how you would be able to stop it.
Emma has a lot to do with Max and Sonya getting back together. She is a very resourceful and intelligent little girl.I loved the part the children played. This has stayed with me and I probably will think about it for a while. I recommend.
Five years Sonya was caught in a media storm. Paparazzi followed her she was harassed on line and even had death threats based on allegations made by Max ex girlfriend. She left town and changed her appearance and her name and is now teaching fifth grade. She lives in terror of being discovered again and having to reinvent herself again. She is afraid to make friends or trust anyone but she is finally finding her place in this city and feels like she might have a home here. When she finds out Max is the guardian of one of her students and that she still has feelings for her she doesn’t know what to do.
The way social media can cause all this to happen to an innocent person is all too real. I made me think about what it must be like and how you would be able to stop it.
Emma has a lot to do with Max and Sonya getting back together. She is a very resourceful and intelligent little girl.I loved the part the children played. This has stayed with me and I probably will think about it for a while. I recommend.
March 29, 2023
I got this book early through netgalley, my first one actually!
The story was overall an interesting one! It was a new way to approach second chance romance, which I tend not to like bc there’s a major issue someone chooses to forget to restart the relationship. This book wasn’t like that, I felt the genuine care between the two main characters and the community they had around them. The spice was low but you still got to see their passion for each other, do not completely closed door. I choose a 3.5 star review because the story felt choppy. Things often happened suddenly or moved quickly. I’m all for quick romance but there was just something missing to make things flow well.
Overall the story was sweet and caring. Mature conversations were had, it was refreshing to see the main characters actually talk things out instead of jumping to conclusions and throwing it all away. So if you’re looking for a mature love story with low drama and anxiety then this book is for you.
Great read especially for a relaxing day at the beach.
The story was overall an interesting one! It was a new way to approach second chance romance, which I tend not to like bc there’s a major issue someone chooses to forget to restart the relationship. This book wasn’t like that, I felt the genuine care between the two main characters and the community they had around them. The spice was low but you still got to see their passion for each other, do not completely closed door. I choose a 3.5 star review because the story felt choppy. Things often happened suddenly or moved quickly. I’m all for quick romance but there was just something missing to make things flow well.
Overall the story was sweet and caring. Mature conversations were had, it was refreshing to see the main characters actually talk things out instead of jumping to conclusions and throwing it all away. So if you’re looking for a mature love story with low drama and anxiety then this book is for you.
Great read especially for a relaxing day at the beach.
April 19, 2023
If you love a good rom/com as much as I do, you will love this book. It checks off everything I am looking to see. BoyMax): meets
Girl (Essie)✍🏻 Essie has left Max during the middle of a heated argument and slams the door.This all happens in a previous book but is well explained to make this a complete stand alone✍🏻 Books begins with Max bringing his niece to school to meet Emma’s teacher Miss Sonya Gambit. Both thinking why is the other one there.✍🏻 Then begins the fun banter and dad jokes. Drama ensues✍🏻Well, we have come this far do they or don’t they get together. You won’t find out until the last pages.✍🏻Rom/com for the ages for me.it gets my honest approval and recommendations. Special thanks to the following for allowing me to review early:
#NetGalley
#Flowers&Fullerton
#SheridanJeane
#Here’sTheScoop
Pub. Date: May 8, 2023
Grab a copy and a comfy chair and have a good read at home before you head for the 🏖
Girl (Essie)✍🏻 Essie has left Max during the middle of a heated argument and slams the door.This all happens in a previous book but is well explained to make this a complete stand alone✍🏻 Books begins with Max bringing his niece to school to meet Emma’s teacher Miss Sonya Gambit. Both thinking why is the other one there.✍🏻 Then begins the fun banter and dad jokes. Drama ensues✍🏻Well, we have come this far do they or don’t they get together. You won’t find out until the last pages.✍🏻Rom/com for the ages for me.it gets my honest approval and recommendations. Special thanks to the following for allowing me to review early:
#NetGalley
#Flowers&Fullerton
#SheridanJeane
#Here’sTheScoop
Pub. Date: May 8, 2023
Grab a copy and a comfy chair and have a good read at home before you head for the 🏖
April 6, 2023
This was an okay read. The plot was a decent idea, but the pacing and flow was just off. The author tells everything instead of showing the reader (exactly what teachers say not to do - “show don’t tell”)! For that reason, it just felt flat. Many of the phrases felt forces and recycled. I believe “bad boy” was used 2 times in two pages while making breakfast. I liked how well the children were written and they worked really well in the story. However, the book club and the food parts were so overdone to a bad level. If the author wanted to write about food so bad, they should’ve been a food journalist and not a romance writer. The chemistry between the two main characters was good but really went way to fast at the end in an unrealistic way. Overall, a fine read with a good plot and substandard writing. 3⭐️, 2🌶
April 11, 2023
This is the 2nd book of Coming Home series, it can be read as stand alone. I read the previous book (Slow Simmer). This book is about second chance romance. After major event in her life the last Sonya need is meet Max again but universe work in weird way. The spark still there, the longing still there, feel like 5 years pass doesnt change everythig. Max determine to win Sonya again, make excuse to be around her. Sonya still in trauma after paparazi effect, still afraid everyone know about her past but she cant deny her feeling to Max. Co-directing the fifth-grade musical Mmake them closer.
Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.
#HerestheScoop #ComingHome #SheridanJeane #FlowersandFullerton #ARCProvidedbyVictoryEditing #VictoryEditing #NetGalley #NetGalleyCoop #ARC
Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.
#HerestheScoop #ComingHome #SheridanJeane #FlowersandFullerton #ARCProvidedbyVictoryEditing #VictoryEditing #NetGalley #NetGalleyCoop #ARC
April 2, 2023
"Here's the scoop" follows Sonya, who, after a miscommunication five years ago, has recreated her life as a fifth grade teacher.Unfortunately for her, her past comes back in a freak accident in the form of Max Ross.Max is just as surprised to see his ex as she is.Throw in some food, a class of 5th graders and a famous ex and this is the story.
Honestly, I'm not quite sure how I feel about this one.As mentioned in the book, it could have been a Hallmark story, albeit somewhat steamier.I didn't find it hard to believe their connection, but it also didn't give me butterflies reading it.
I'm giving it three stars because it wasn't quite there, but I also completed the whole book instead of giving up.
Thank you NetGalley for the arc. The opinions above are my own.
Honestly, I'm not quite sure how I feel about this one.As mentioned in the book, it could have been a Hallmark story, albeit somewhat steamier.I didn't find it hard to believe their connection, but it also didn't give me butterflies reading it.
I'm giving it three stars because it wasn't quite there, but I also completed the whole book instead of giving up.
Thank you NetGalley for the arc. The opinions above are my own.
April 10, 2023
This novel had a promising set-up about a woman fleeing a viral scandal that led people to attack her and endanger her job teaching elementary school. But she just happens to flee to the small town where the guy whose jealous rock star girlfriend had started the attacks on the heroine. Sure, that’s believable. The rest of the story is basically a small-town romance featuring her adorable 5th grade class and his niece who just happens to be in that class. Too many coincidences and the sweetness wasn’t enough to give this novel a real spark.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
April 26, 2023
Here's the Scoop is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone. It is a sweet, second chance romance with a lot of heart and a great case of characters in a small town. It can be heartbreaking at times also and trigger warning, it does deal with the death of a young girls parents. Max and Sonya are lovely people who have had a rough go of life after Max's ex-girlfriend Raven has a breakdown and sends cyberbullies after Sonya. I really enjoyed the story and the characters. I loved Emma and her friends and the setting of a fun school play. I loved how Max continued to grow into the role of a primary caregiver to Emma and how Sonya's character grew to love and trust others. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
March 24, 2023
absolutely loved this book I read it in one day I just couldn’t put it down. It was such a sweet love story with some brilliant characters. Sonya’ as 5th grade teacher who’s hiding from her past life. Max has just became a guardian to his niece who’s in Sonya’s class. He’s who Sonya’s hiding from. I loved their chemistry they were adorable. Emma was such a sweet girl who really made the book. her class was putting on a show so more adorable children. Sonya not only gets a happy ending but also a family and real friends my heart ached for her during the book but I was so happy at the end. She’s a character who will always live in my head.
May 11, 2023
This is the second book in the series and we get to revisit all the great characters we met in book 1. This book is a 3.5 stars for me . Which is a good book on my scale ….. This book has Fords brother Max finding his happy ever after. It’s a second chance romance. I enjoyed the story and liked that it tackled subjects involving grief and bullying. I enjoyed the playful banter between Emma and Max as they learn to live as uncle and guardian and learn to deal with grief. I’m looking forward to book 3.
I voluntarily received a free copy from NetGalley and all opinions are my own
I would recommend this book to friends, family and my book clubs
I voluntarily received a free copy from NetGalley and all opinions are my own
I would recommend this book to friends, family and my book clubs
May 16, 2023
Sonya is a school teacher, but when Max becomes guardian to his Neice Emma, due to the loss of her parents, Sonya and Max must get reacquainted and must tackle the paparazzi and the online world, while putting on the fifth-grade musical all at the same time.
This was a really lovely narrative of a second-chance romance, but it does also explore heavy themes such as cyberbullying, grief and the loss of parents.
I really liked the relationship between Max and his niece Emma and found their companionship and growth a really nice part of this narrative. I do wish Sonya was a stronger character, but I still really liked the character.
This was a really lovely narrative of a second-chance romance, but it does also explore heavy themes such as cyberbullying, grief and the loss of parents.
I really liked the relationship between Max and his niece Emma and found their companionship and growth a really nice part of this narrative. I do wish Sonya was a stronger character, but I still really liked the character.
April 17, 2023
I think the concept of this book was interesting, it just felt like it could have been done better. The characters were easy to root for, but the writing was clunky and dialogue didn’t feel natural. There was a lot of long explanations “hidden” as conversation that just didn’t flow well. I thought I could forgive it in the beginning of the book, but a lot of these conversations repeated the same information throughout the book which was really unnecessary to me. The small-town setting and characters had a lot of heart, I just think with better editing this could have been great.
April 22, 2023
After a pretty long run of super enjoyable books I finally hit one that didn't quite meet the mark for me. While the story was interesting I had a hard time connecting with any of the characters and a majority of the book felt very rushed. Some of the decisions being made by some of the characters were questionable at best and down right dumb most of the time.
'Essie' essentially runs away after getting bullied by a super famous YouTube star and takes comfort in a small town. Ok, cool, I can did it. THEN you find out the man she ran away from actually secretly lives there and is moving back and now SURPRISE she's teaching his neice who he just got custody of due to her parents death. Now they're stuck together regardless of how they feel, or say they don't feel. While this trope of moving back to a small town is something that's done all the time I thought this one was going to be something a little different and that's what kept me reading. By the time I made it about half way through however I realized just about everything I was reading was going in one ear and out the other and that I wasn't retaining any of what I was reading. So after realizing that I knew it was only a matter of time before my brain just shut off completely and mindlessly finished the book just to finish it. Which is disappointing because like I said the premise had promise.
The "spicy" bits of the book didn't really feel all that spicy. Now admittedly I like a LOT of spice when it comes to a romance novel but this felt like half a spicy star. Did they sleep together? Yes. Was it....interesting? No. Did I rejoice? Still no. At about the three quarter mark I just kind of wanted the book to be done so I could read something else. I'm very happy I got the chance to read this book and even though I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped too I would still recommend it to someone who is just dipping their toes into a softer romance genre. Thank you Netgalley for this opportunity.
'Essie' essentially runs away after getting bullied by a super famous YouTube star and takes comfort in a small town. Ok, cool, I can did it. THEN you find out the man she ran away from actually secretly lives there and is moving back and now SURPRISE she's teaching his neice who he just got custody of due to her parents death. Now they're stuck together regardless of how they feel, or say they don't feel. While this trope of moving back to a small town is something that's done all the time I thought this one was going to be something a little different and that's what kept me reading. By the time I made it about half way through however I realized just about everything I was reading was going in one ear and out the other and that I wasn't retaining any of what I was reading. So after realizing that I knew it was only a matter of time before my brain just shut off completely and mindlessly finished the book just to finish it. Which is disappointing because like I said the premise had promise.
The "spicy" bits of the book didn't really feel all that spicy. Now admittedly I like a LOT of spice when it comes to a romance novel but this felt like half a spicy star. Did they sleep together? Yes. Was it....interesting? No. Did I rejoice? Still no. At about the three quarter mark I just kind of wanted the book to be done so I could read something else. I'm very happy I got the chance to read this book and even though I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped too I would still recommend it to someone who is just dipping their toes into a softer romance genre. Thank you Netgalley for this opportunity.
November 4, 2023
Second chances
Trigger warning: parent loss, cancer, bullies
Romance level: open door scenes.
Enjoyed the second chance and the friends that they have. Love the development of friendships and wish I could have seen more of that in the story.
Some slow parts, some small items that didn't flow well or had word choice issues, and some inconsistencies made this not a 5, but solid 4.
Trigger warning: parent loss, cancer, bullies
Romance level: open door scenes.
Enjoyed the second chance and the friends that they have. Love the development of friendships and wish I could have seen more of that in the story.
Some slow parts, some small items that didn't flow well or had word choice issues, and some inconsistencies made this not a 5, but solid 4.
April 13, 2023
This delightful and very lighthearted romance focuses on Sonia and Max who have the chance to be together again five years after a very messy and ugly break up caused by Max’s ex.
It’s easy and fun with a bit of insight into the whole celebrity fame circus. With no angst and a little steam this is an easy read.
It’s easy and fun with a bit of insight into the whole celebrity fame circus. With no angst and a little steam this is an easy read.
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