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Billingsley #1
Redeeming Lottie
I had a plan for my life.
One that would never involve marriage, or kids, or being stuck in the one-horse Texas town I grew up in.
I saw how it worked out for my parents, and I wanted no part of their heartbreak.
So I ran.
My career was the only commitment I had time for. The only one I was ever willing to make. But life didn't care about my plan.
I didn't expect to go home again, but here I am.
I never, ever planned on seeing Tucker Monroe again, but here he is.
His sexy smile and country charm were the reason I left.
But with every smirk this single dad gives me, I'm finding it hard to remember why.
All that's on my mind is Tucker, but I can't give in to the feelings that never quite went away. I have to remember what my ambitions are.
But he's too tempting. And just as dangerous for me as he ever was…
One that would never involve marriage, or kids, or being stuck in the one-horse Texas town I grew up in.
I saw how it worked out for my parents, and I wanted no part of their heartbreak.
So I ran.
My career was the only commitment I had time for. The only one I was ever willing to make. But life didn't care about my plan.
I didn't expect to go home again, but here I am.
I never, ever planned on seeing Tucker Monroe again, but here he is.
His sexy smile and country charm were the reason I left.
But with every smirk this single dad gives me, I'm finding it hard to remember why.
All that's on my mind is Tucker, but I can't give in to the feelings that never quite went away. I have to remember what my ambitions are.
But he's too tempting. And just as dangerous for me as he ever was…
ebook
First published February 1, 2018
About the author
Melissa Ellen
15 books1,066 followersMelissa Ellen is an indie author of contemporary romance. She writes about modern-day couples that give you all the feels. A lover of both the big city and small towns, her stories are set in both. A Reason To Stay, book one of the Blackwood Series, was her debut novel.
She grew up as a bookworm, reading anything and everything, and still tries to read at least a book a week. She's always had an active imagination. Luckily, she now has time to put it to good use writing about the characters constantly swarming around in her head.
She went from designing buildings to crafting stories while living in Texas with her husband, son, their rescue dog, and her five chickens. Her number one goal in life is to own some land with a mini moo (tiny cow) and a horse. When she's not writing, you'll find her tackling her latest architectural design project, reading a good book, gardening, or spending time with her family.
Melissa Ellen's writing style is characterized by its relatable characters, emotional resonance, and ability to blend humor and heart into her stories. If you enjoy contemporary romance novels with depth, humor, and heartwarming themes, then Melissa Ellen's books are definitely worth checking out.
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She grew up as a bookworm, reading anything and everything, and still tries to read at least a book a week. She's always had an active imagination. Luckily, she now has time to put it to good use writing about the characters constantly swarming around in her head.
She went from designing buildings to crafting stories while living in Texas with her husband, son, their rescue dog, and her five chickens. Her number one goal in life is to own some land with a mini moo (tiny cow) and a horse. When she's not writing, you'll find her tackling her latest architectural design project, reading a good book, gardening, or spending time with her family.
Melissa Ellen's writing style is characterized by its relatable characters, emotional resonance, and ability to blend humor and heart into her stories. If you enjoy contemporary romance novels with depth, humor, and heartwarming themes, then Melissa Ellen's books are definitely worth checking out.
WANT TO BE PART OF MY ARC TEAM?
https://forms.gle/eREwuRLXoXkg8NLY8
LEARN MORE ON MY WEBSITE:
www.authormelissaellen.com
JOIN MY VIP READERS LIST NEWSLETTER:
http://bit.ly/mellenNL
FOLLOW ME ON BOOKBUB:
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/melis...
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/authormelis...
KEEP UP WITH ME ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/melissaellen...
JOIN MY READER FACEBOOK GROUP:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/11703...
LET'S CONNECT ON TIKTOK:
https://www.tiktok.com/@authormelissa...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
January 28, 2018
★5 Stars★
OMG, I don't know what hit me. This book was...Amazing!
Although I have finished the book days ago, I can't get it out of my mind. I'm simply dumbstruck, dumbfounded. Don't let the cover full you. The cover is so sweet and it's very appropriate. But the book...
This book tells Lottie's story...Lottie is a young independent woman, very successful in her career. She has her dream job working in fashion and she is paid to travel the world. Didn’t I tell you?!, Perfect job...She knows what she wants, or rather, she thinks she knows what she wants.
Although she knew true and pure love, she doesn't believe in it and she doesn't trust in relationships, much less in marriage. These insecurities are the fruit of her parent's marriage. Her father constantly cheating on her mother, and that marked her in a very bad way. So after she graduated, she ran far away from the love of her life, never looking back, less coming back again...Now, after 12 years, she is forced to come back home and face her past.
Tucker...or Tuck...is the biggest son of the Monroe family, one of the most powerful family from Billingsley, Texas. He was Billingsley’s golden boy.
"All-star high school quarterback and all-around athlete. Every guy wanted to be him, every girl wanted him…but only one girl ever had his attention growing up—his high school sweetheart. She wasn’t the homecoming queen or the head cheerleader like most would’ve expected. But she was his. Everyone knew they’d be the one high school couple who married someday. But they didn’t. Because that girl left him, taking the heart he so freely gave her and stomping on it"
Now, after 12 years, he'd grown even more handsome, still has a killer smile that melts al the ladies and all their panties. But beyond all this, he is a man. More powerful, much stronger and dominant, and more determined to fight and get what he wants...his happiness and all the pieces of his heart back together. Only this time he isn't alone.
I love the whole book. Definitely one of my favorite books, definitely a re-read...Lottie took me through all the possible states of spirit. She was so undecided and so insecure that I hated her sometimes. But most of the time I really got her and truly understand her. I think every woman goes through such moments in life, only the most important thing is to listen to your heart and make the right choice.
Tuck...OMG, I fell for that cowboy from the first word.I loved everything about him. There are so many things to say about him: gorgeous, sexy, hot, rich, ambitious, sweet, dominant, passionate, smart, beautiful inside-out, playful, and so many many things.He is perfect.Perfect hero.Perfect man. :P
The book is written from both sides Lottie's and Tuck. From the start to the end of the book I was glued to it. I couldn't put it down, couldn't read fast enough and at the same time not read at all because I didn't want to end it. I laughed so much and so hard...The book is hilarious, the characters are amazing, very well contoured, the whole story is well written, sweet and at the same time hot and dirty.
I loved the book. The attraction between the main characters was so intense, so powerful. I felt every emotion, every feeling. The friendship between Lottie and Hannah was so funny and so crazy...The book is crazy in a very good way...It's a simple book. But sometimes all you need is that...a simple book.Sometimes it takes just that, just a simple book to make your day and feel good.
I highly recommend! 💓
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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May 7, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/7/2020)! 🎁
February 1, 2018
Received an ARC at no cost to author...Again I have found a new author that I wonder why haven't I heard from her before, this book was great. This was a second chance romance and boy did we go thru a roller coaster, there were times that I wanted to knock out Lottie, but then you also felt for her and understood where she was coming from. Then there was Tucker, oh my! I honestly can not tell you more because you need to read for yourself..And as always..Enjoy!!
January 4, 2018
Another great story from Melissa Ellen...I could not put down the book.
Lottie is a girl who knows what she wants and takes risks to go after her dreams. Lottie has achieved the success she wanted. Now something has changed. Has Lottie been caught up in her dreams that she has forgotten who she is or what she wants? Sure Lottie has regrets. Are they from missed opportunities or just unfinished business? When Lottie is forced to visit her Mom she may better understand herself and those regrets.
Melissa has a way of making her characters individually strong but even stronger together. A perfect compliment to one another. These characters will draw you into their story that there are always second chances in friendships and in love.
Lottie is a girl who knows what she wants and takes risks to go after her dreams. Lottie has achieved the success she wanted. Now something has changed. Has Lottie been caught up in her dreams that she has forgotten who she is or what she wants? Sure Lottie has regrets. Are they from missed opportunities or just unfinished business? When Lottie is forced to visit her Mom she may better understand herself and those regrets.
Melissa has a way of making her characters individually strong but even stronger together. A perfect compliment to one another. These characters will draw you into their story that there are always second chances in friendships and in love.
June 5, 2020
Didn’t Like the Heroine
This is a kind of book that makes me realize why I prefer historical romances in general. Normally, when I have an issue with a main character in a romance, it is usually the hero. Some authors make them too unlikable for too long. Unfortunately, I had the same issue here with the heroine. Right from the prologue, I didn't like her. I found her too abrasive and certainly unfeeling. I'm just not a fan of that type of woman or heroine. As such, I could not get into the story. Perhaps if the author had softened her a little earlier, I could have warmed up to the story, but I could never relate to her, which is essential for me in a romance. There's also some mild profanity, which I'm not a fan of whatsoever in any type of writing, but certainly not in a romance. The cover led me to believe that this would be a more pleasant contemporary romance, but I did not find it to be so.
I received a free copy of this cookbook, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
This is a kind of book that makes me realize why I prefer historical romances in general. Normally, when I have an issue with a main character in a romance, it is usually the hero. Some authors make them too unlikable for too long. Unfortunately, I had the same issue here with the heroine. Right from the prologue, I didn't like her. I found her too abrasive and certainly unfeeling. I'm just not a fan of that type of woman or heroine. As such, I could not get into the story. Perhaps if the author had softened her a little earlier, I could have warmed up to the story, but I could never relate to her, which is essential for me in a romance. There's also some mild profanity, which I'm not a fan of whatsoever in any type of writing, but certainly not in a romance. The cover led me to believe that this would be a more pleasant contemporary romance, but I did not find it to be so.
I received a free copy of this cookbook, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
January 28, 2018
A sweet, steamy second chance with one hot southern man and a sweet and sassy fashionista Redeeming Lottie will hit you right in the feels. Throw in the addition of one adorable little girl with Tucker’s niece and you have perfection. I devoured this in one afternoon because I couldn’t put it down. I just had to see what was going to happen next.
While still having plenty of moments that had me giggling this was actually a lot deeper than I expected, which was a pleasant surprise. I was so emotionally invested in these characters that I cried with them and cheered for them. I just flat out loved them. Occasionally I did want to shake them both when they were stubborn and needed to communicate, but even then I still adored them.
While still having plenty of moments that had me giggling this was actually a lot deeper than I expected, which was a pleasant surprise. I was so emotionally invested in these characters that I cried with them and cheered for them. I just flat out loved them. Occasionally I did want to shake them both when they were stubborn and needed to communicate, but even then I still adored them.
June 5, 2020
This is an ARC review. All opinions are solely my own.
Redeeming Lottie by Melissa Ellen is the first book of the Billingsley series. I had never read this author but there is nothing I love more than a series that follows friends and family. I can't wait to read or listen to the rest of this series.
This audiobook is narrated by Erin Coker and Ski. Their voices are adaptable and allowed them to animate different characters and accents. Overall, I enjoyed their performances.
Lottie has left small town living to follow her dream of fashion. She has to return home and thinks it will be a quick trip and she'll be able to get back to her life in the city. Of course this gives her a chance to run into her first love. Sparks fly. Miscommunications happen. People interfere.
This book was sweet and heartbreaking, infuriating and endearing. Excuse me while I go read the rest of this series.
Redeeming Lottie by Melissa Ellen is the first book of the Billingsley series. I had never read this author but there is nothing I love more than a series that follows friends and family. I can't wait to read or listen to the rest of this series.
This audiobook is narrated by Erin Coker and Ski. Their voices are adaptable and allowed them to animate different characters and accents. Overall, I enjoyed their performances.
Lottie has left small town living to follow her dream of fashion. She has to return home and thinks it will be a quick trip and she'll be able to get back to her life in the city. Of course this gives her a chance to run into her first love. Sparks fly. Miscommunications happen. People interfere.
This book was sweet and heartbreaking, infuriating and endearing. Excuse me while I go read the rest of this series.
February 4, 2018
Redeeming Lottie is an extremely sweet, second chance romance. It was the first novel by Melissa Ellen that I have had the pleasure to read. I thoroughly enjoyed it! This book is a rollercoaster! There were plenty of moments that had me laughing out loud. It was so well written, the characters had such defined chemistry that I couldn’t help but feel emotionally connected to them. It is a sweet small town, swoony, funny and addictive read. I struggled to put down my kindle while reading it.
***Reviewed by Codie***
***Reviewed by Codie***
November 15, 2018
Overall I liked this book. I loved that is was a small town second chance romance. Those are my favorites. However, I had a hard time liking Lottie at times. Thankfully by the end she was on my good side and I was happy for her and Tucker. I loved her friend Hannah though and I look forward to reading her story next.
December 7, 2017
This is a cute, fun, country romance that pulls on your heartstrings. Lottie is very confident and knows what she wants when it comes to her career, but has know clue what she wants when it comes to romance. Melissa Ellen writes this book from both main characters perspectives, which I loved. This allowed you to understand what they were both thinking and feeling. After years of running away from her hometown she has to return and leave her fancy, worldly dream job. Then she has to face her past... Tuck Monroe... the perfect good ol' country boy. He has it all, sexy, ripped, comes from a wealthy family, hard worker, ambitious, family man... How could she ever leave him?!? Melissa Ellen does a great job giving small flashbacks of Lottie and Tuck's high school days and leading up to the day she decided to leave home. All her feelings and emotions that she had locked away come flooding back and she has to play mind games with herself on what she thinks she wants, which is opposite of she's really feeling. As I read, I wondered if she was going to stay or go and did the back and forth... "she will stay", "no, she's going to flee", "she has to stay", "nope she's outta here"... the suspense of what she would do or not do had me wanting to skip to the end to find out! I stuck with it and read to the very end and loved every moment of their story, even with the unexpected twist and turns that had me almost in tears, angry and moved. Loved this story, the characters and the setting!
January 30, 2018
Got an advanced copy and couldn’t put it down! I loved these characters, the country imagery, the comedic moments....not to mention the steamy dreamy cowboys! Makes me want to move to a small town and live the simple life. This writer is truly progressing with each book she writes and I can’t wait for the next series promised. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance, a good laugh and a great read! Cowboy up!
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May 20, 2020⭐👠👠NOW LIVE!!!👠👠⭐
Redeeming Lottie now available on all platforms and in Audio!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2YP0LCj
Nook: https://bit.ly/lottienook
Kobo: https://bit.ly/lottiekobo
GooglePlay: https://bit.ly/lottiegoogle
Apple Books: https://bit.ly/lottieapple
Redeeming Lottie now available on all platforms and in Audio!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2YP0LCj
Nook: https://bit.ly/lottienook
Kobo: https://bit.ly/lottiekobo
GooglePlay: https://bit.ly/lottiegoogle
Apple Books: https://bit.ly/lottieapple
July 7, 2018
4.5 STARS
A small town second chance romance......Totally and utterly LOVED THIS BOOK! It had just the right amount of everything. Such a charming and satisfying read!!!
A small town second chance romance......Totally and utterly LOVED THIS BOOK! It had just the right amount of everything. Such a charming and satisfying read!!!
February 2, 2018
Redeeming Lottie was a true delight and was one of the sweetest stories that I’ve come across in quite a while. It was such a feel good read! I'm talking about the type that leaves you all mushy at the end thinking ‘Oh my gosh, that was so sweet’ and wanting to share with everyone. With fun and feisty characters and its story laced with small-town charm, I enjoyed everything about this incredibly sweet and passionate second-chance romance!
The characters really gave me the full gamut of emotions throughout this story. Where I was swooning over Tucker in one corner, I seriously wanted to kill Lottie in the other!
Lottie definitely had the feisty and stubborn nature that one might expect from a redhead, and initially I really enjoyed her personality and charisma. However, as more of her character and past were revealed, I began to think she was selfish and heartless. From then on, Lottie definitely needed to ‘redeem’ herself in my eyes, and in the end, she totally did! I really felt for her character and understood all of the conflicting emotions of her past that she carried deep down. I was actually in awe of her strength and admired her courage!
I don’t think that Tucker Monroe could have been any more amazing! He was the TOTAL package. Sweet, caring, honest, hard-working, determined, loyal… I could go on all day with what a truly stand-up guy Tucker was. Then there was Lily... the love that he had and what he would do for that little girl was incredibly touching! At the end of the day, Tucker was the type of man that a woman would have to be crazy to let get away… and Lottie did.
Lottie and Tucker’s relationship really melted my heart! With twelve years of distance since last seeing or speaking with one another, I figured the animosity between them would be too large to overcome, but they had such a solid foundation of friendship from their history of growing up together that couldn’t keep Lottie and Tucker apart. With all of the pain from their past, there was still so much hope for them being together again. They couldn’t even be in the same room without sparks flying, and they were still so playful and fun together! There was just such a genuine and passionate connection between Lottie and Tucker that I just knew they were meant to be and truly hoped there wouldn’t be a repeat of their past!
Melissa Ellen's writing was fantastic, and she did an amazing job in the execution of the story. The storyline itself was fun and enjoyable, very well-developed, and unique in how it conveyed and elicited so much feeling. Lottie and Tucker’s past and present alone really drew on all of my emotions, and their dual point of views also gave a better understanding to each of their personalities and character. There was nice and steady flow to the story, and where it wasn’t overly complex, it had the perfect amount of depth and twists along the way to capture my attention and keep me intrigued. I also really liked that Ellen didn’t overdo it with angst and only gave it the perfect amount to keep the overall feeling light-hearted and the focus on the sweetness of Tucker and Lottie's story.
The quaint and ‘small town feel’ of both the people and the town of Billingsley, Texas were the best! I loved that it had so much character and a charm of its own, and it was a place that just felt like home.
The secondary characters were also very well-developed and a lot of fun as well! I wonder if there might be a follow up? Maybe? I would love to know if there is a story between Billy and Hannah… I think there definitely might be one there!
Redeeming Lottie delivered just what the doctor ordered giving me all kinds of warm, happy, and fuzzy feelings, and I highly recommend it!
* 5 Stars for Me! *
Read the full review & enter the GiveAway: DG Book Blog
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
The characters really gave me the full gamut of emotions throughout this story. Where I was swooning over Tucker in one corner, I seriously wanted to kill Lottie in the other!
Lottie definitely had the feisty and stubborn nature that one might expect from a redhead, and initially I really enjoyed her personality and charisma. However, as more of her character and past were revealed, I began to think she was selfish and heartless. From then on, Lottie definitely needed to ‘redeem’ herself in my eyes, and in the end, she totally did! I really felt for her character and understood all of the conflicting emotions of her past that she carried deep down. I was actually in awe of her strength and admired her courage!
I don’t think that Tucker Monroe could have been any more amazing! He was the TOTAL package. Sweet, caring, honest, hard-working, determined, loyal… I could go on all day with what a truly stand-up guy Tucker was. Then there was Lily... the love that he had and what he would do for that little girl was incredibly touching! At the end of the day, Tucker was the type of man that a woman would have to be crazy to let get away… and Lottie did.
Lottie and Tucker’s relationship really melted my heart! With twelve years of distance since last seeing or speaking with one another, I figured the animosity between them would be too large to overcome, but they had such a solid foundation of friendship from their history of growing up together that couldn’t keep Lottie and Tucker apart. With all of the pain from their past, there was still so much hope for them being together again. They couldn’t even be in the same room without sparks flying, and they were still so playful and fun together! There was just such a genuine and passionate connection between Lottie and Tucker that I just knew they were meant to be and truly hoped there wouldn’t be a repeat of their past!
Melissa Ellen's writing was fantastic, and she did an amazing job in the execution of the story. The storyline itself was fun and enjoyable, very well-developed, and unique in how it conveyed and elicited so much feeling. Lottie and Tucker’s past and present alone really drew on all of my emotions, and their dual point of views also gave a better understanding to each of their personalities and character. There was nice and steady flow to the story, and where it wasn’t overly complex, it had the perfect amount of depth and twists along the way to capture my attention and keep me intrigued. I also really liked that Ellen didn’t overdo it with angst and only gave it the perfect amount to keep the overall feeling light-hearted and the focus on the sweetness of Tucker and Lottie's story.
The quaint and ‘small town feel’ of both the people and the town of Billingsley, Texas were the best! I loved that it had so much character and a charm of its own, and it was a place that just felt like home.
The secondary characters were also very well-developed and a lot of fun as well! I wonder if there might be a follow up? Maybe? I would love to know if there is a story between Billy and Hannah… I think there definitely might be one there!
Redeeming Lottie delivered just what the doctor ordered giving me all kinds of warm, happy, and fuzzy feelings, and I highly recommend it!
* 5 Stars for Me! *
Read the full review & enter the GiveAway: DG Book Blog
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
February 2, 2018
A Heart Melting Second Chance Story
This fantastic book is a must read!!! It will definitely make you laugh, swoon, cry and want to smack someone to knock sense into them. Small town second chance story with loss, secrets, regrets and a whole lotta love. Lottie left her small Texas town after graduation and Tucker along with it. She hasn't been back for twelve years until news of her mothers passing and doesn't want to go back now. Growing up with her parents destructive relationship Lottie refuses to go down that road of marriage and children. Tucker has never gotten over Lottie but must move forward with his life raising Lilly and running his construction company. Memories surge forward for both Lottie and Tucker when their eyes lock on each other for the first time in years, so does the love and lust. There is so much baggage to get through on both parts but, Lottie is determined to leave this small town for her life in Seattle. Will their fling bring back the reason they were so good together and turn into the real thing?? Lottie is a stubborn independent woman who thinks she knows what she wants. Tucker is definitely hot as the Texas sun and just as stubborn as Lottie, but he now has Lilly to think about too. Just when you think...finally, the plot takes a twist and someone interferers to mess things up!!! I stayed up all night to finish this book just to see how things turn out. Melissa Ellen is without a doubt a one click author, and I am definitely on a one click shopping spree. The characters will breathe a breath of fresh air into your life and bring a smile to your face. Still trying to find a one click for Tucker and will pay extra shipping!!! His/her POV, no cheating, no cliffhanger, scorching scenes and a hard won HEA. I highly recommend this book and any other book by Melissa Ellen.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book
Thank You Melissa Ellen 💕💕💕
This fantastic book is a must read!!! It will definitely make you laugh, swoon, cry and want to smack someone to knock sense into them. Small town second chance story with loss, secrets, regrets and a whole lotta love. Lottie left her small Texas town after graduation and Tucker along with it. She hasn't been back for twelve years until news of her mothers passing and doesn't want to go back now. Growing up with her parents destructive relationship Lottie refuses to go down that road of marriage and children. Tucker has never gotten over Lottie but must move forward with his life raising Lilly and running his construction company. Memories surge forward for both Lottie and Tucker when their eyes lock on each other for the first time in years, so does the love and lust. There is so much baggage to get through on both parts but, Lottie is determined to leave this small town for her life in Seattle. Will their fling bring back the reason they were so good together and turn into the real thing?? Lottie is a stubborn independent woman who thinks she knows what she wants. Tucker is definitely hot as the Texas sun and just as stubborn as Lottie, but he now has Lilly to think about too. Just when you think...finally, the plot takes a twist and someone interferers to mess things up!!! I stayed up all night to finish this book just to see how things turn out. Melissa Ellen is without a doubt a one click author, and I am definitely on a one click shopping spree. The characters will breathe a breath of fresh air into your life and bring a smile to your face. Still trying to find a one click for Tucker and will pay extra shipping!!! His/her POV, no cheating, no cliffhanger, scorching scenes and a hard won HEA. I highly recommend this book and any other book by Melissa Ellen.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book
Thank You Melissa Ellen 💕💕💕
February 3, 2018
Lottie left her small hometown of Billingsley, Texas as soon as she was able, and never looked back. Now she has a very successful career in fashion, that allows her to travel the world, and that's all she has time for. Until tragedy strikes, then she finds herself going home for the first time in 12 years to face the past that she left behind. And that includes the man that she loved, Tucker Monroe, who she never got over, but has always hoped he found happiness. As they come face to face again, she sees that he's all man, and the feelings that never died are quickly resurfacing, so Lottie knows that she needs to stay away from him, because he's not alone. I knew that I wanted to read this story, but it exceeded any expectations that I had after actually devouring it. Lottie is a great heroine, who did run, but she owned it so didn't make excuses. Tuck was mouth watering, and while he was mad, which he had the right to be, his heart still beat in time with hers, so I was cheering them on like mad. Not to mention the sparks flew, even after 12 years, so sexy time was FIERY FLAMES of PANTY MELTIN' GOODNESS. And the cast of secondaries were awesome, especially since they were the humor needed to get a break from the angst, plus they added more depth. Melissa Ellen has become an author that is on my addiction list after a very short time, as her super talented writing style is just fantastic & original. She also added in a huge twist for good measure, which let me drop the f-bombs for fun, which I love in my books. I CANNOT WAIT to read more of her awesome goodness, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
February 3, 2018
What a wonderful read, this is a standalone but I so hope that the author writes about the other characters in this book. Hannah, Billy and Wes all need their own stories and wouldn't mind Leighton's story either. You will not want to put this book down, such a great second chance romance. Lottie left her small town in Texas for Seattle and hasn't been back in the twelve years since she left. She doesn't believe in marriage and love except to her job and she never stays with any guy long enough for them to develop feelings. She watched her parents miserable marriage and her cheating father. She won't make their same mistakes but when her Mom dies she is forced to go back home and make the funeral arrangements and handle the sell of the family farm. The last person she ever wants to run into is Tucker her ex and childhood sweetheart. She left the day after high school graduation and never looked back.
Tucker has been in love with Lottie since they were kids but when she ran off right after graduation without an explanation or goodbye she broke his heart. He was in a dark, dark place after she left and now that she is back he wants answers. Except that every time Tucker is near her he wants more. Will Lottie give Tucker the answers he's looking for? Will she give him a chance or will her fears make her run again. Will Tucker be able to finally convince Lottie that they were meant to be together and won't end up like her parents? Will he go after this time if she decides to run? I received a free Arc copy and am volunteering to leave a review with my honest opinion.
Tucker has been in love with Lottie since they were kids but when she ran off right after graduation without an explanation or goodbye she broke his heart. He was in a dark, dark place after she left and now that she is back he wants answers. Except that every time Tucker is near her he wants more. Will Lottie give Tucker the answers he's looking for? Will she give him a chance or will her fears make her run again. Will Tucker be able to finally convince Lottie that they were meant to be together and won't end up like her parents? Will he go after this time if she decides to run? I received a free Arc copy and am volunteering to leave a review with my honest opinion.
February 1, 2018
If you love second chance romances with a strong heroine and a sweet, sexy hero (who doesn’t?!?), then you will NOT. WANT. TO. MISS. REDEEMING LOTTIE!! Melissa Ellen has definitely secured her spot on my authors to “one-click” list, with her Blackwood series and Redeeming Lottie was no disappointment. I loved this book so much, I can’t say it enough! It had me laughing out loud within the first five minutes, crying through the middle, and sitting on the edge of my seat toward the end it was so good.
Lottie (what an adorable name!!) is such a firecracker, with her witty comments and expressive attitude. She was a little stubborn at times, but still a great heroine to read about. I loved her beginning relationship with Tucker and was heartbroken when she left her hometown and him with it.
Tucker is a genuinely sweet man, but such a dirty alpha male in the bedroom.... or living room, or kitchen *wink wink* I wish I had a Tucker of my own! His sincere feelings for Lottie, even when they were teenagers, made even me fall in love with him.
This is such a fantastic story, I already want to go back and reread it. ** Disclaimer: read best with a glass of wine... or two.** I highly recommend this book (and author). I can’t wait to see what Melissa come up with next. I’m definitely hoping for a spin-off for one Redeeming Lottie’s supporting characters. That’d be AMAZING!!
Lottie (what an adorable name!!) is such a firecracker, with her witty comments and expressive attitude. She was a little stubborn at times, but still a great heroine to read about. I loved her beginning relationship with Tucker and was heartbroken when she left her hometown and him with it.
Tucker is a genuinely sweet man, but such a dirty alpha male in the bedroom.... or living room, or kitchen *wink wink* I wish I had a Tucker of my own! His sincere feelings for Lottie, even when they were teenagers, made even me fall in love with him.
This is such a fantastic story, I already want to go back and reread it. ** Disclaimer: read best with a glass of wine... or two.** I highly recommend this book (and author). I can’t wait to see what Melissa come up with next. I’m definitely hoping for a spin-off for one Redeeming Lottie’s supporting characters. That’d be AMAZING!!
July 7, 2020
Lottie and Tucker were not only best friends and high school sweethearts, but Tuck was her champion and he was there to support her through all the ups and downs of her life. Lottie has seen firsthand the destruction that love can cause so after school she left Tuck and their hometown to pursue her dreams in Seattle.
Twelve years later Lottie is back in her hometown to settle her mother’s estate and from the first time that they see each other again the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever. Tuck was devastated when she left town over a decade ago and that is a pain he doesn’t want to repeat but when she needs help with her farm he can’t walk away.
This is a second chance at love story between two people who have always belonged together. Tuck never wavered in his belief that she was his destiny and he gave her the time and space she needed to realize it as well. I thought that the narrators did a great job with both the humor and emotion of the story.
Twelve years later Lottie is back in her hometown to settle her mother’s estate and from the first time that they see each other again the chemistry and connection between them is stronger than ever. Tuck was devastated when she left town over a decade ago and that is a pain he doesn’t want to repeat but when she needs help with her farm he can’t walk away.
This is a second chance at love story between two people who have always belonged together. Tuck never wavered in his belief that she was his destiny and he gave her the time and space she needed to realize it as well. I thought that the narrators did a great job with both the humor and emotion of the story.
January 29, 2018
A second chance with that first love that got away. Well Lottie more like ran away from Tucker. She had witnessed an unhealthy relationship and had decided that she wasn't risking her heart. When her mother passes away suddenly, she is forced to return home and face the man she left behind. Can Tucker convince her to open her heart?
I got where Lottie was coming from but she had closed herself off from love for fear of hurt. Living in fear is worse than living having failed. Tucker, despite being left behind without a word, is determined to seize the second chance and remain hopeful that she will fully open up to him.
The small town setting added to this book as there is nowhere to hide and everyone knows everyone's business. I really enjoyed this book: the setting, the writing and the characters.
**Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
I got where Lottie was coming from but she had closed herself off from love for fear of hurt. Living in fear is worse than living having failed. Tucker, despite being left behind without a word, is determined to seize the second chance and remain hopeful that she will fully open up to him.
The small town setting added to this book as there is nowhere to hide and everyone knows everyone's business. I really enjoyed this book: the setting, the writing and the characters.
**Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
June 24, 2020
4 star Review of Redeeming Lottie (Billingsley #1) by Melissa Ellen
AUDIO REVIEW:
Recently I have found myself gravitating to small town romances, add in that this is a second chance at love story and it was a win/win for me. Melissa Ellen is a relatively new author to me and I found this story to be as entertaining. Narrated by Erin Coker and Ski, both did an admirable job bringing Lottie and Tucker’s story to life.
Having left behind Tucker and her small town 12 year ago, Lottie finds herself back home again, but hopefully not for long. It is obvious that they have unresolved feelings, the question is should they explore what sizzles between them and take a chance or ignore the attraction?
This was a sweet, at times frustrating story, and there were times when my heart broke for the characters but I was left with a smile on my face.
AUDIO REVIEW:
Recently I have found myself gravitating to small town romances, add in that this is a second chance at love story and it was a win/win for me. Melissa Ellen is a relatively new author to me and I found this story to be as entertaining. Narrated by Erin Coker and Ski, both did an admirable job bringing Lottie and Tucker’s story to life.
Having left behind Tucker and her small town 12 year ago, Lottie finds herself back home again, but hopefully not for long. It is obvious that they have unresolved feelings, the question is should they explore what sizzles between them and take a chance or ignore the attraction?
This was a sweet, at times frustrating story, and there were times when my heart broke for the characters but I was left with a smile on my face.
February 1, 2018
This is such a sweeping, emotional story; encompassing life, loss, love, and second chances. I loved Tucker. Loved, loved, loved Tucker. Lottie made me mental. I realize she has a lot of baggage and history that tell her there’s no such thing as a ‘forever love’, but the lengths she goes to in order to avoid any meaningful connections with other living human beings made me scream at my reader. I loved that she’s independent and accomplished and so capable of taking care of herself, but I hated how hard she was running away from something so amazing. Tucker is what book boyfriend dreams are made of. He’s so sweet and caring and he’s loved her just about his whole life. I want a Tucker of my own.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
February 1, 2018
4 1/2 Stars
I'm still shaking my head at Lottie. This small town, second chance romance will make you laugh, want to cry, and want to shake your reading device -as if you could shake some sense into people...Lottie. The main characters have a lot to go through, including Lottie herself, but it all comes together beautifully. Melissa has really written this story well, and her characters are well developed. So, without giving anything else away, I'm just going to say... Go buy this! I'm sure you won't regret it.
This review is based off of an advanced copy I requested, and is entirely of my own opinion.
I'm still shaking my head at Lottie. This small town, second chance romance will make you laugh, want to cry, and want to shake your reading device -as if you could shake some sense into people...Lottie. The main characters have a lot to go through, including Lottie herself, but it all comes together beautifully. Melissa has really written this story well, and her characters are well developed. So, without giving anything else away, I'm just going to say... Go buy this! I'm sure you won't regret it.
This review is based off of an advanced copy I requested, and is entirely of my own opinion.
February 2, 2018
I really enjoyed this story, you got to love second chance stories. I was hooked from page one throughout. I kept wondering and hoping for what would happen. And I wasn't disappointed.
I loved Tucker, he is sweet, caring and has a big heart. He is alpha male through and through. He may seem like he is angry, but he has a kind side to him. He is selfless, and cares about his family.
I didn't like Lottie at beginning, she seemed selfish, and only cared about one thing herself. But she redeemed herself, like the title says. I started to like her after a while. She has some great attributes, she is caring, and has a loving personality when she lets it out.
I recommend this story. wtmo
I loved Tucker, he is sweet, caring and has a big heart. He is alpha male through and through. He may seem like he is angry, but he has a kind side to him. He is selfless, and cares about his family.
I didn't like Lottie at beginning, she seemed selfish, and only cared about one thing herself. But she redeemed herself, like the title says. I started to like her after a while. She has some great attributes, she is caring, and has a loving personality when she lets it out.
I recommend this story. wtmo
August 9, 2022
Found the heroine really frustrating and annoying. The hero had a lot of patience. But I didn’t mind it that much. I just couldn’t grasp why she didn’t just open her eyes sooner and realise that Tucker is actually the sweetest guy ever.
I liked the book, it was comforting but not fluff. Nothing angsty happened. I was looking for a small town book and I found it.
Another thing I disliked is that it didn’t have the epilogue that I wanted. Give me an epilogue what shows how they are in the future. I wanna see their 2.5 children. Like they finally got together at 12 years and what? I don’t see them living the life they want. I dont want it to be implied, I wanna read that crap on my epilogue.
Anyways it was a decent read!
I liked the book, it was comforting but not fluff. Nothing angsty happened. I was looking for a small town book and I found it.
Another thing I disliked is that it didn’t have the epilogue that I wanted. Give me an epilogue what shows how they are in the future. I wanna see their 2.5 children. Like they finally got together at 12 years and what? I don’t see them living the life they want. I dont want it to be implied, I wanna read that crap on my epilogue.
Anyways it was a decent read!
February 1, 2018
This book had it all and it was absolutely a pleasure to be able to read it. The best way to describe it is that once upon a time I was just like the woman in this book and had alot of hard choices to make just like her. In this one we have to just believe that life has a way of telling us what to do and what not to do. Just listen to your heart and it will lead you in the right direction. This is a must read ad I happily give it 5 stars. I voluntarily reviewed this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy
January 30, 2018
Sweet and amazing!
This small-town romance story will definitely give you the swoons and sighs as you get to know its adorable characters. From the backstory, to the satisfying conclusion, I have been glued to my reader non-stop.
Lottie and Tucker is what I can call a second chance romance who will have a lot of things going against them, including Lottie herself, in their road towards their forever. But it's all worth it in the end.
This small-town romance story will definitely give you the swoons and sighs as you get to know its adorable characters. From the backstory, to the satisfying conclusion, I have been glued to my reader non-stop.
Lottie and Tucker is what I can call a second chance romance who will have a lot of things going against them, including Lottie herself, in their road towards their forever. But it's all worth it in the end.
February 1, 2018
This is an amazing second chance romance, which had me intrigued and hooked from the very beginning. Lottie is a feisty, independent yet insecure woman, and Tucker is a sweet, caring and sexy male. This storyline is emotional, humorous, and about loss and love. This author had written a truly beautiful story, and I highly recommend her work for all readers, and look forward to reading more from her.
February 2, 2018
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy of this book that I received for free.
Lottie, a buyer for a major high-end department store, gets some unsettling news and must make her way back to her hometown. Tucker, owner of a construction company and Lottie's first love, finds himself volunteering to help Lottie on a project while she is home. As the story progresses relationships are renewed, missteps lead to misunderstandings, and secrets left alone for years come to light. Redeeming Lottie is a great realistic contemporary romance with plenty of heat.
Don't run away from this one
Lottie, a buyer for a major high-end department store, gets some unsettling news and must make her way back to her hometown. Tucker, owner of a construction company and Lottie's first love, finds himself volunteering to help Lottie on a project while she is home. As the story progresses relationships are renewed, missteps lead to misunderstandings, and secrets left alone for years come to light. Redeeming Lottie is a great realistic contemporary romance with plenty of heat.
Don't run away from this one
February 1, 2018
Omg Melissa Ellen you have captured me with this read I love a woman who knows what she want regardless of her insecurities in other areas I just loved Lottie and hated her at the same time as for Tuck I loved him from the get go I just loved him and I couldn’t believe how this all went my heart wept for him and joyed at the same time I just adored the entire read. If you haven’t gotten this read you truly are missing out.
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