Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Nights in Bliss, Colorado #8

Once Upon a Time in Bliss

Rate this book
Re-released in a second edition with new content.

Go back in time to Bliss’s first happily ever after…

CIA operative John Bishop arrived in Bliss, Colorado, seeking a respite from the high-stakes game of blood and lies that sent him to the worst corners of the world. A week playing the role of vacationing professor Henry Flanders would recharge his batteries, especially if he found a gorgeous woman to occupy his time.

Nell Finn has spent her life focused on helping others, but when she meets the tall and mysterious Henry Flanders, she can’t stop imagining what he might do for her. When Nell and her mother are threatened, Henry comes to her, offering his protection and comfort.

But as the threats escalate out of control, Henry discovers that the beautiful and innocent Nell is much more than a plaything. Can he save the woman he loves without exposing the secrets that would drive her away?

213 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 25, 2013

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Sophie Oak

38 books1,640 followers
A lifetime devotee to the written word, Sophie published her first novel this year. Prior to becoming a novelist, she worked in theater and comic books. She lives in Fort Worth, Texas with her husband and three precocious children, who wonder when mom is going to write a book they will be allowed to read. Her answer: probably never. Sophie believes in happy endings for everyone, no matter how extreme the story. Her stories may feature some of the fringe elements of sexuality, but at heart they are always about love.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1,239 (58%)
4 stars
642 (30%)
3 stars
197 (9%)
2 stars
34 (1%)
1 star
11 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,134 reviews13.1k followers
July 16, 2019
4.5 STARS
His real name was gone. Erased. He had no home. No family. No life. He was nothing. Nothing at all.

Hands down, my absolute favorite in the series so far!

The very second John Bishop appeared on the pages of Nobody Does It Better, I was desperate for his story. The mysterious agent that is as cold as he is ruthless just HAD to have a heart of gold beneath all of that brawn, right? And oh man did this deliver.

This is set in the past, so not only do you get the story of how Nell and "Henry" get together, but you get the additional backstory of some of Bliss's favorite kinky residents, including teenage Logan. This was the perfect icing on the cake! But let's not lose sight of the story, because Nell and Henry definitely stole the show.

I have to admit that I was a tiny bit afraid to read this book because while I loved Nell as the quirky side character, I wasn't sure I'd enjoy a full dose of her. The vegan bleeding heart activist isn't my typical cuppa of heroine. But the more I learned about her, the more I found myself falling more and more for her incredibly endearing quirks.
Doctors push every day to find new medical breakthroughs. Scientists push to invent new technology. And I push every day so this planet is a better place for everyone, and you can look down on me and call me a kook, but people like me are the reason we have a democracy. We’re the reason women can vote. We’re the reason we have words in our vocabulary like human rights. Philosophers, thinkers, activists are the reason for every breakthrough humanity has made in becoming a more fair place.

Nell and John together were downright incendiary. I loved watching her sweet and idealistic heart slowly thaw out John's icy walls. I loved watching him fall more and more for Nell's innocence and sunny disposition. They were the perfect balance for the other.

Of course, what what would it be in Bliss if there wasn't a mystery and some action that ran along with the romance, and it was the perfect addition to the already wonderful story. It was quick paced, full of action and steam, and wonderfully swoony. I loved getting more John Bishop and young Tag. I loved learning more about the young citizens of Bliss before they settled down into their relationships. And I loved, and I mean loved Nell and Henry.
She was a mystery, and he wasn’t sure he could untangle her.

Yet another fantastic addition to a wonderful series that I'm completely addicted to. Now I can't wait for Logan and Seth's story!

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

Find me on:
Follow me on facebook Follow Me on Twitter blog
Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
2,776 reviews718 followers
July 16, 2019
What a riot! I would have never have guessed that Henry Flanders was this deadly CIA operative before he met Nell. Henry and Nell have been in all the previous books in the series and they way they are portrayed was nothing like how Henry was before Nell. The author did such a good job of showing Henry's transformation as he got to know Nell that it felt right that he gave up his CIA life to become the Henry we've gotten to know in the other books. There were a lot of comical moments in this book. I enjoyed getting a look at all the side characters and how they were before the timeline of book 1 took place. This was a fun read!
Profile Image for Aղցela W..
4,112 reviews293 followers
November 19, 2019
This was book 8 in the " Nights in Bliss, Colorado" series. I love this town and wish I could find it. I have always been curious about Nell and Henry aka John Bishop and their love story and this book did not disappoint. John needed a vacation he was tired of killing people for the agency. John worked with Ian and Tennessee when they were in the agency. John goes to Bliss to see his old CO Bill who owns the nudist resort under the name Henry Flanders when he meets Nell Finn it's lust at first sight. Nell is in Bliss with her mother who has cancer her mother is a little off. When someone trashes their cabin Henry agreed to help find out who is after Nell turns out she protest everything. Nell is also a 25 year old virgin. These two begin hooking up and Henry knows that she is submissive. This was a good read Henry will do anything to protect Nell. I liked seeing all the characters before they got with there partners and young Logan and Seth and it's good to no that Mel has always been different. It was also good to know that he was helped by one of the Dawson twins. I love reading this series this book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Vikki ~ *squee* lite ~.
497 reviews184 followers
April 27, 2013
Oh man, I just love this series. Sophie Oak never disappoints. I have to admit, I was a little tentative about a Henry/Nell book. I kind of had them pigeon holed from their appearance in other books. (Even though their story was hinted at in several books).

I'm so glad I didn't pass it up. I adore Henry and Nell. Loved every minute of their story. I'm always amazed at how a good author can pack such a full rich story into such a short book.

If you like BDSM and ménage - and you haven't tried Sophie Oak yet, do yourself a favor and pick up one of her books and let yourself get introduced to the residence of Bliss Colorado. I don't think I'll ever get tired of reading about its residence. :)

(Seriously, between Sophie Oak and Kristen Ashely, I'm convinced that I need to move to Colorado )
Profile Image for Sassafrass.
3,110 reviews99 followers
March 8, 2013
A review for the The Romance Reviews.

It's no mystery that I love Sophie Oak. I've waxed poetic many times about her Nights in Bliss, Colorado series. And many times I've laughed about the characters of Bliss and their antics. One of those characters is Nell Flanders. I've always wondered about her poor husband, Henry, that seems to follow her and support her crazy protests against burgers or the law that prevents people from being nude in the town. But Henry has given us a few glimpses throughout the series of something just underneath that placid surface he displays. Something a little dangerous.

Well, ONCE UPON A TIME IN BLISS there was a man trying to escape his life as a CIA operative even if it was just for a few days. He goes to his friends' nudist colony in Bliss, Colorado as Professor Henry Flanders and meets a bleeding heart liberal by the name of Nell, who changes his world forever. When Nell is in danger, this man tries to protect Nell the best way that he can even if it means leaving her forever.

ONCE UPON A TIME IN BLISS is a prequel of how Nell and Henry met and fell in love. We get to see some of our favorite Bliss characters before they got their own HEA's, and even got to meet some characters that we've only heard about in previous books.

WOW, whew!*fans self* I. HAD. NO. IDEA! None. Who knew that Henry Flanders had it in him?!? The sexy, dominant, dirty talking man is not who I was expecting, but it's definitely who I got. And man, he could teach some of these boys in Bliss a thing or two.

Nell…was Nell. I didn't really see her much differently than I did in the previous books, but I enjoyed seeing her through Henry's eyes. It really put a new perspective on her character for me.

And besides the fact that this book was smokin' hot, I loved the struggle that Henry had to go through in order to be the man that Nell deserved. Also, we are treated to the suspenseful plots that the Bliss books have become known for.

I have to admit, I have always wondered about Nell and Henry, but I didn't think that the story would have enough meat to be its own full-length story, but I should have known better than to doubt Sophie Oak, because she has made me a believer time and time again. ONCE UPON A TIME IN BLISS is no exception.

And then, to add the icing on top of an already very decadent cake, we are set up for the next Bliss book which will feature the character we've been waiting for to get his act together: Deputy Logan! Yes, people, he will finally be getting his own book (well, his own along with his best friend and the woman they are going to share)...SCORE!

So, I'm sure it's obvious that I was over the moon about this book. ONCE UPON A TIME IN BLISS is the book I didn't even know I was desperate to have. And I think only Sophie Oak has the ability to do that to me. I'm glad that even eight books in, this series is going strong, and I am on the edge of my seat for more books to come.


Profile Image for Delta.
1,926 reviews24 followers
July 16, 2015
Nell Finn, the quirky heroine and outspoken hippie protester who appears throughout the Nights in Bliss, Colorado series is the focus of Once Upon a Time in Bliss . This is the tale of how she and Henry Flanders got together. The story flashes back to a time prior to Book 1 of the series, and it is fun to see the other characters in their earlier days.

Aside from the usual enjoyable scorching romance scenes and adventure, this story stands out because we finally get to see the beautiful mind of Nell--all of her heartfelt idealism and her love for mankind and nature. Nell embodies all of the positive spirit of Bliss, Colorado with her loving acceptance of people as they are, her refusal to pass up a chance to right a wrong or to encourage someone, and her unwavering integrity at all times.

Henry (in previous books seen as a mysterious strong, silent type) is a vacationing CIA operative who quickly falls for Nell but doesn't want to endanger her. He also feels that he doesn't deserve her. When Nell receives some serious threats because of her protest work, Henry fears for her safety. Then Nell disappears one afternoon, and Henry joins Nell's friends from Bliss in a race to find her before it is too late.

This has been such an enjoyable series. If you haven't started it, the books are best if read in order. You may find that the quirky characters work their way into your heart and that you long for a place like Bliss, Colorado.

This series contains explicit sex scenes unsuitable for under-18.
Profile Image for April.
2,628 reviews173 followers
January 27, 2013
I have long been waiting for this book!! I love Bliss, Colorado! This series is steamy, funny and a great story every time!

Going in to it I was unsure how much I would like the prequel, I hate knowing how a story will end. That was not a problem!! Lots of fresh details and insight into the lives of the denizens of Bliss.

I have always loved Nell and her protests so seeing how she and proper staid Henry matched up was fantastic. It puts a whole new meaning on every time she says "Yes, Henry" in previous books! Love the BDSM angle!

You see more of young Logan in this book and officially meet his BFF Seth! They are a hoot! But don't tell his moms! I am so ready for their book next!

I freely admit to crying at a couple points in the book. Even though I know Henry and Nell are together from previous books! I still choked up!

Oh, Dearest Sophie, after the epilogue you really need to buckle down and get the next book out ASAP!! I do not think I can wait too long!

I would not mind a insiders guide as a bit of a refresher. So many books interconnected and many characters to keep track of, not a complaint, just an observation. I may just need to reread all the books just for good measure. That will buy you a little time in getting the next book out!
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews351 followers
September 9, 2019
description
Talk about a story that definitely needed to be told. Henry and Nell's story is one of those that I always wondered about but never really thought about getting. And now that I've read it, I'm absolutely over the moon that it was finally told.

Nell has always been this strong supportive character throughout all of the books I've read in the Bliss series. And Henry has always been her protector and just seems like this all around cool guy. But oh, to finally have read their story and to see how they came to be, it is absolutely the kind of stuff I love about Lexi Blake and her fantastic writing style.

She can take these characters that seem like complete opposites and write their story in such a way where it's obvious they were meant to be. And while they're falling in love with each other and you're falling in love with them you're also getting to see the residents of this amazing, funny, just practically perfect town. I think that's my favorite thing about this series. I don't just get one couple's story. I get a whole town to swoon over and that I'm so excited to return to with every new book.
Profile Image for Cyn Mistress Kitty.
1,559 reviews170 followers
June 15, 2017
Ahhhhh I just loved Nell and Henry's story. They were just perfect together. Poor Henry is so broken down and jaded fearing he has no soul when he comes to Bliss for a vacation. There he meets quirky, glass is always half full Nell. Can a man who doesn't give a damn anymore be healed by a woman who cares about everything too much? HELL YES!!
I just loved how these two interacted and how Nell would just babble and be so sweet and honest. Henry didn't quite know how to take her but found comfort in her babbling and in her resolve that people are good and one person can make the world a better place.
It was great to see some favorites before their story and I am totally intrigued by Seth and the cliffhanger at the end. I CAN'T WAIT.
Just did a re-read.
Profile Image for Chloe.
26 reviews
January 8, 2013
This is the story of Bliss's first happily ever after. Henry and Nell have been a part of Bliss since the first book in the series, but with this book we finally get the story of how they got together.

To say that Henry was a different person before he came to Bliss is an understatement. The story of who he was before and why he changed his entire life for Nell is a beautiful one.

It's also fun to see so many of the Bliss characters when they were young. Max and Rye before Rachel, how Laura ended up in Bliss, how innocent Logan was before his life changed at the hands of the Russian mob...

And one heck of an ending that will leave you begging Sophie to write faster!
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,841 reviews1,441 followers
July 23, 2019
At long last, I finally know how Henry and Nell got together! And dear lord, it’s a glorious story!

Once Upon a Time in Bliss is a flashback to when John Bishop tried to hide from the CIA and play pretend as a real, quiet, sexy AF college professor. He was just looking for some down time, some quiet. He never counted on falling in love with local activist Nell Finn. And certainly never planned for just how much she’d rock his world.

Nell’s been biding her time in Bliss, Colorado. She moved there to give her mother peace of mind and to be surrounded by love as she succumbed to the cancer that was slowly killing her. Nell was more than happy to do this, she loved her mother fiercely and would do anything she asked. But Nell was no wall flower. She was a busy woman—protesting anything and anyone who threatened the earth and her delicate ecosystem. She was a force to be reckoned with. But she’s also single and lonely. And after meeting sexy AF Henry Flanders, she knows he’s just what she needs and she’s set her sights on him.

But in the meantime, someone has set there sights on her, nd now she’s a target—a target who’s life is threatened. And Henry will stop at nothing to figure out who’s threatening her and put an end to him. Literally.

I loved the give and take between Nell and Henry. And loved how their relationship unfolded, and how they’ve been the stable, quiet, peaceful couple through the other books in this series . . . little did we know! And it definitely gives new meaning to when Nell responded with “Yes, Henry” in the other stories. LOL ~ Missy, 5 stars
Profile Image for Malinda.
1,852 reviews245 followers
January 28, 2013
Loved it! Loved it! Loved it! In case you couldn't tell...I loved this story! I'm a big fan of Sophie Oak's stories and I started out with the Bliss series so I was very happy to get this story and learn more about Henry(aka John) and Nell and how they got together. We've had hints before letting us know that Henry wasn't as gentle as he seemed so it was very interesting seeing that fleshed out and how much he changes to be with Nell (both in actions and thoughts).

I've always liked Nell's character but getting to see her internal thought process helped me understand her character more which made me love her more. Also, there is a crossover between Nell and Sophie's Faery series...little hint...her maiden name is Finn and her mother was considered touched in the head because she believed she was from another plane where fairies exist...enough said!

Another great part of the story is that it takes place 6 years before current time and we get to see younger versions of Seth and Logan hanging out together and being best buds. I really liked the fleshing out of their friendship and more on Seth's personality and background that we haven't gotten before.

Of course we know that the story ends with Henry and Nell together but there was some drama before Henry wa free of his past and could be with Nell. Their seperation and reunion both had me reaching for a tissue. I'm so happy Sophie wrote this story. There's a great setup for the next story for the threesome of Logan, Seth and Georgia. I can't wait...I may have to take the day off work to read that one when it comes out!

This story was definitly worth the read. 2 thumbs up!!
Profile Image for **Nicole.
422 reviews52 followers
October 22, 2015
Absolutely LOVED Henry and Nell's story!! Favorite in the series so far and I I really liked how it took place in the past and so you got to see more of a beginning to Bliss and its kooky residents.
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
4,875 reviews180 followers
July 5, 2019
5 Star Review Once Upon A Time In Bliss (Nights In Bliss Colorado# 7) by Sophie Oak
 
I have been waiting for CIA operative John Bishop’s aka Henry Flanders story from the first time he was mentioned. He intrigued me so much and I was so excited when I knew that this was his book.

I have always loved the character of Nell Finn, so innocent and yet such a passionate advocate for the causes she supports.

I loved learning the history of how Nell and Henry came to be and this story was every thing I hoped for and so much more.

Henry has led a life of sacrifice, surrounded by death. Taking a much needed break in Bliss, Colorado he meets the intriguing and obviously submissive Nell. When danger lands on Nell and her mother’s door step, Henry does what he does best, investigates and protects. Can Henry keep Nell safe?

I loved seeing all the characters that I have come to love when they were young and before they found their significant others.

Even though you know Henry and Nell end up together, it doesn’t stop the emotions from flowing as they face the heartbreak of separation.

It is because you get to see glimpses of previous characters and catch up on their lives. I love the quirkiness of the characters who call Bliss home and I cannot wait for the next adventure in Bliss.
 
 This may well be my favourite book in the series which says something as I have loved every book on this series.
 
Profile Image for BookAddict  ✒ La Crimson Femme.
6,797 reviews1,379 followers
February 25, 2013
OH HENRY! I love Henry; I always have. I've been looking forward to this book. Somehow, I thought they were much older hippies than they really are. In this book it sets it straight. While I loved reading about Henry, I really didn't want to read about Nell and her having sex. Isn't that old? I guess it's like thinking about my mother fucking. Ewwww. Every time Henry exerted his "Dom-ness", it aroused me. Then I'd be grossed out thinking about Nell naked and getting down and dirty.

I've never liked Nell. She's an annoying idealist. While I understand the purpose of these people, Nell just bugs me. She's so judgmental in my eyes. It's like her shit doesn't stink. She's so "righteous" in her belief that she's always in the right that it just drives me batty. Her causes and protests drive me crazy too. I roll my eyes. Every protest mentioned just has me shaking my head. I just close my ears and ignore people like her. It's just background noise screaming I could do without. It's probably her delivery that makes her so bloody irritating. It's like a gnat that just won't die.

Anyway, I feel vindicated Henry is as I thought he was. It makes him that much more sexy and hot. I loved learning about the young Logan and his best friend Seth. I'm looking forward to this next book. Ms. Oak is always a wonderful writer and this book doesn't disappoint. It's a lovely prequel to start it all. It's a lovely return to all my favourite characters. Recommended for kinky readers.

Profile Image for Laura.
2,421 reviews115 followers
December 12, 2019
This was fun.

A lot of fun.

It was also hot. Hot. Hot.

This one is set in the past, and while it's not necessary to have read the other titles, it definitely adds to the fun of reading this and getting a glimpse into the past lives of characters you have gotten to know.

This is probably my favorite of all of the Bliss titles. All of them are fun, hot, and sexy reads.

Generally I don't like stories where one of the characters lies to the other. But, this one worked well and I enjoyed it a lot.

I enjoyed and recommend this title.
Profile Image for Sarah.
3,343 reviews1,235 followers
July 16, 2019
Once Upon a Time in Bliss is book 8 in the Nights in Bliss series but it's also kind of a prequel. Nell and Henry have been some of my favourite side characters since the beginning of the series so I loved this chance to go back in time and see how they first met. It was also great to see younger versions of so many of the characters we've already met and love, in particular Logan and his best friend Seth shine in this story and as their book is next this was the perfect introduction to them (I think this is the first time we've seen Seth on page but I could be wrong about that).

Anyway, lets get back to our main couple and discuss the romance. Nell has been such a fun character throughout the series, she's a bit hippy in her attitude, very much a free spirit who cares deeply about the people and the world around her. She's constantly picking causes to protest over but when the chips are down she's definitely someone you want on your side because she's fierce when it comes to looking out for her own. Henry is a much quieter and more serious type, he's happy to indulge Nell in her crazy whims but not likely to join her in her protests. Instead he watches proudly from the sidelines making sure she doesn't get into too much trouble. We know from his actions in previous books that there is a darker side to Henry but Nell definitely brings out the best in him.

This story gives us a chance to get to know more about Henry's past as a CIA operative. He has a dark and bloody past but he's relieved to have left it all behind him now. When he first arrives in Bliss the last thing he was looking for was to settle down but he was definitely suffering with burnout from his job. Nell was someone so light and pure that the attraction was instant but he worried about tainting her with his past so it wasn't easy for him to start a relationship. In a lot of ways these two are total opposites but they work so well as a couple, she makes his world a much brighter place while he is able to shield her from the darker side of life and keep her happy.

I loved spending time with Nell and Henry but it was also fun seeing younger versions of characters like Max, Stefan, Callie and even Mel. I really enjoyed the friendship between Logan and Seth too so I'm looking forward to reading their book next. This series really is so much fun to read and I've enjoyed every minute of it.
296 reviews4 followers
October 12, 2019
This is the 8th book in the Nights in Bliss, CO series. This book is not a stand alone, it should be read in order.

In the last book, Chasing Bliss, we get a glimpse of Henry's past. We see that he is not just a pacifist but a trained killer. It is understandable that the next book in the series is about Henry and Nell. They seem like kooks but after reading this book I realized they are far from it. I knew that Henry and Nell ended up together since they are a couple in the previous books so I am glad that I now have their story. I wish that I had paid more attention when they were mentioned. Henry was so kind and loving towards Nell.

Although there was some BDSM in this book the scenes were very short. As soon as I was getting into the scene it was over, that was a disappointment.

I can't wait for Logan and Seth's story in Back in Bliss. I just wonder if I should be reading the Texas Sirens series before I move on.
Profile Image for Ryan - Sweet Red Reader .
1,417 reviews94 followers
September 28, 2019
Nell and Henry have been important side characters in this series all along the way and it was so good to get their very unique story. I already knew that there was more to Henry (I sort of got a spoiler when I read Nobody Does It Better) than meets the eye, so it was so satisfying to find out how and why he ended up in Bliss. This also gave such lovely insight into Nell - who could otherwise be underestimated and perceived as naive, gullible, and out of touch. Once Upon A Time shows the reader how capable and intelligent she really is and what a dynamic duo she and Henry are. I was worried about whether I would be able to see her as a sexual being and actually be engaged with her scenes with Henry - but I shouldn't have doubted Lexi's ability to draw me in and keep me captivated. I always learn something about myself when I read one of her books and my experience with Once Upon A Time in Bliss was no different. I'm starting to dread the end of this and the Sirens series, but at least I know that I can jump in to Masters and Mercenaries and be able to spend a long while in the wonderful world and captivating characters that Lexi Blake creates.
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,013 reviews441 followers
July 16, 2019
Once Upon a Time in Bliss by Lexi Blake is book 8 in the Nights in Bliss, Colorado Series. This is the story of John Bishop aka 'Henry Flanders' and Nell Finn. 
John is this CIA agent who just wants time away from his super secret job and high pressure life. He comes to Bliss and pretends to be mild mannered Henry Flanders while he unwinds and visits his friend that lives in Bliss. It's there that he meets Nell. Nell is a sweet woman and I was so glad to see how John/Henry fell in love for Nell. Her story is sad and heartbreaking but I was glad to see how John/Henry jumped right in to help Nell. The story flowes and with the twists and turns, feels, intrigue, suspense, steamy romance, BDSM moments , and epic action packed adventure. The HEA is fabulous and the ending was amazing!!!
This is why I love reading the stories where Bliss is featured because there are great characters. Ms. Blake knows how to make her characters shine bright and her plots feel so realistic. I can't wait for the next book.



My Rating: 4.5 stars *********
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,854 reviews16 followers
July 16, 2019
ONCE UPON A TIME IN BLISS by Lexi Blake is book 8 in the Nights in Bliss, Colorado Series. This is the story of John Bishop 'Henry Flanders' and Nell Finn. I have read (and Loved!) the previous books which I think added to my enjoyment of this book seeing the previous characters...but you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
John is a CIA agent looking for down time from all the stress and excitement of his job. Thinking to go visit his friend in Bliss for a while to do the recharging. Shortly after getting in Bliss he meets Nell who is in danger along with her mother. Of course there is an immediate attraction and protectiveness that kicks off in John. But he is using a different name and occupation in his down time which adds to the untruthfulness of who John is which adds to the drama of their feeling becoming stronger.
This book and whole series is nothing but good reading... hot and funny too.
Profile Image for The Book Junkie Reads . . ..
4,960 reviews141 followers
July 27, 2019
After getting started and sinking in with the Bliss, CO and its inhabitants, I was wanting more. I have to go back to start of this series and read them all and then read this one again. John/Henry was a walking desire on two legs. He was a man on a resting mission or was he. But either way the time he thought he would spend just passing with a willing woman turned out to be so much more. There were fantastic characters, a charming town, suspense and danger, and more. I was regretting putting it down, but I will return again and read it after the first seven books get devoured. Happily.

The dedication at the beginning of this one was beautiful. I want to say thank you.
Profile Image for Firstpella.
775 reviews
July 21, 2019
I wuv Lexi Blake.
But I never wanted to read Sophie Oak and I steered clear of Blake’s ‘A Virgin & Her 15 Men’ Series for the same reasons - 1 man / 1 woman is my jam.

Luckily, for those readers who may not be missionary style so much as...traditional in their Kindle-Porn, Oak did include a handful of Tarzan/Jane love stories in Bliss including this sweet and slightly spiced tale of The Professor & His MaryAnne. Henry & Nell are precious and while you must suspend your disbelief that a love like theirs happens the moment their eyes meet, the story is worth 2 hours on a lazy Sunday morning to indulge in. A bit sappy, a bit dirty, a bit teary, and all around blissful.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews846 followers
January 30, 2013
Angeline and Shadow's Two-Fer review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

5 Stars

Angeline's review
Once Upon a Time in Bliss by Sophie Oak is the story of one of my all-time favorite couples, Henry and Nell Flanders. To that I say, “WooHoo!! FINALLY”!! I love Bliss, CO and the unique characters that reside there. I have always been smitten with Henry and Nell. At last, we have their lovely story.

When Henry visits Bliss on vacation, he meets sweet Nell. They are instantly drawn to one another. When Nell is in danger, Henry will do everything he can to save her. In the end, we see who really saves who…

I always knew that Henry was some sort of badass. Did I ever underestimate him! Henry, who is dark and tortured, is the complete opposite of Nell’s light and happy. They are both incredible forces that together make for a wonderful couple who truly complement each other. I’m so happy to finally know the real Henry and Nell. There is so much more to them. Henry is not just Nell’s lapdog who follows her around at her every whim. And Nell is not a flake by any means.
Ms. Oak never ceases to amaze me with her wonderful stories. I cannot get enough of her writing. I am always transported to a wonderful place and am shown a beautiful love story full of intrigue and at-the-edge of your seat action. Action that is heart stopping scary to heart pumping sexy!!

Bliss just wouldn’t be Bliss without the Flander’s!!!! If they were to ever leave my favorite CO town, I think I’d have to protest that! *Grins*

Shadow's review
When I want to escape to a place of happy endings, when I want to laugh out loud and shed tears over a book, I can always return to Bliss, Colorado, and the world created by Sophie Oak.

Once Upon a Time in Bliss is her latest effort, a telling of the story of Nell Finn and Henry Flanders. Although complete in itself, it sets the stage for the next book, when Logan Green will most likely return to Bliss.

John Bishop is burned out. As one of the CIA’s best undercover operatives, he has seen too much death, too much blood and he doesn’t know what is right and what is wrong any more. He decides to take a week off and visit his mentor, who has retired to Bliss. When he arrives, disguised as history professor Henry Flanders, he finds Bill now operates a nudist colony on a Colorado mountain. As he is talking to his friend, Nell and her mother arrive, to tell Bill someone has trashed their cabin and they need somewhere to stay.

Unexpectedly attracted to Nell, Bishop decides to help them out by finding out who tore up their cabin. Thus begins a whirlwind courtship, as Bishop learns Nell is dedicated to righting the world’s wrongs. She is also a sexual submissive, perfect for him. They fall in love but Bishop knows he has to leave eventually. He has a host of enemies, not the least his employer, who won’t want to lose one of their best trained operatives.

Through all of this, we are treated to the madcap mayhem that is Bliss, including Mel, the alien hunter, Max and Rye Harper and more; and we learn more about Seth and Logan in their youth.

As usual, I found myself laughing out loud at the antics of Sophie’s characters, and believing in hope right alongside Nell. I also shed tears and enjoyed the HEA. My poor husband had to listen to whole segments of the story as I read passages out loud to him. And, yes, it was good he was handy-some of the sex scenes in this one are hot!
I simply can’t wait to return to Bliss for the next installment!

Review copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Darcy.
13.2k reviews508 followers
May 28, 2013
When I realized this one was about Nell and Henry I was intrigued. I am not sure why, but for some reason I had these 2 pictured different in my head, more older and stereotypical middle class soccer mom and dad. I also thought Henry was more of a pansy guy, blindly following Nell along, sort of in her shadow. But with the last book we learned that Henry had moves we never knew about.

Learning about Henry's past really put him in a whole different light and it explained why he did follow Nell around. Her little protests would seem so tame to him after the life he lead. I loved how Henry was able to take back his life and was glad that he made the right choice.

I really liked how Henry saw Bliss when he first got there. The whole place was so foreign for him, in so many ways. I loved how Nell blew Henry away from the start. Nell seemed so good and pure to Henry that he hated to corrupt her in any way. I did love how Nell seemed to push back at Henry when he started to back away, especially the last night.

Another great thing that I loved about this book was because it was set in the past we got to see our favorite characters in a different light, one before most of them got their HEA.
772 reviews74 followers
March 27, 2014
Yay!!!! It's been awhile since I've rated a book 5 stars so this is a happy day for me. I've been slowly reading through the Sophie Oaks Bliss and Siren series. I've loved all of the books so far but this one took it to the loved and adored 5 star level. Henry Flanders is my Dream Man. He's handsome, he's mysterious, he's makes no apologies for his alpha male personality. He's made sacrifices and made some hard choices and it's marked him. He also loves Nell Finn with every piece of him and he will do anything to protect her, even if it means breaking her heart and killing his soul. Nell is a bright and shiny beam of goodness. She's accepting of everyone and very set in her ways. She means to save the world, whether it wants to be saved or not. She will not compromise her values. At first she comes off as naive, but she's not at all. She's probably the most stable person in Bliss.

This story hurt my heart in places but I was a happy girl by the end. Thank You Sophie Oak, for getting me out of my 5 Star drought. I loved, loved loved Henry and I hope i get to see him in future books.
Profile Image for starsaga.
772 reviews8 followers
March 1, 2013
a very sweet book and a great addition to the series
I have read all of Sophie Oak's books set in bliss. This is one of the best of the books. I loved both the hero and and especially the sweet heroine, Nell. I don't remember much about Nell and Henry from the other books except that they were mentioned especially around the action moments in the other books. I am glad that Sophie wrote this book and fleshed out their story. The end was not as good as I would have liked, the story takes place over a few days after the characters meet, then there is the obligatory and predictive separation, followed by a brief reunion, which did not take even a page. I was confused by this and would have liked to know whether Bishop told Nell about his life and what she really meant to him. However the book was a very sweet book and a keeper for me. If you like sweet heroines, this is the book to read.
Profile Image for Gina.
278 reviews22 followers
January 26, 2013
I LOVE BLISS!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok got that out LOL. This was a great look into the past of Bliss and specifically kooky Nell and her sexy Henry, and seeing how they came to be a couple and the HOTTNESS they hide from most of the Bliss residents. You gotta laugh at Maurice....VERY COOL! I also loved the glimpse into Logan's future by seeing his past...it's gonna be a scorcher!!!

LOVE IT SOPHIE!!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.