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darkness223's review
3.0
This is the first book I have read in the series and while I look forward to reading the rest you don't need to have read them to enjoy this book.Jackson has worked with Willa at his families garage for the last two years and she is kinda one of the guys.He and his brothers know she is hiding something and have been paying under the table what they don't know is that she is hiding from her family and plans to move on soon and that she has been in love with Jackson for the past two years.This was an okay read and while I mostly enjoyed it finding out why Willa was running was a big let down.
jencook29's review
4.0
I liked this one, and the fact that it continued the Cottonwood stories really helped! Willa was a hard character to get to like, and I think it's because the readers couldn't get to know her right away. However, we did know Jackson, and that made him more likable in the beginning. Willa grew on me, and about half way through the story picked up. It was just a bit of a slow start. Overall really good!
jaimejustreadsromance's review
4.0
This is Book 5 in the series but can be read as a stand-alone, although it might be helpful to read the 4th books in the series because the couple from that book appear a lot in this story. However, I don’t think it takes away from the experience if you don’t.
Laura Trentham is a new author to me. This is only the second book I’ve read of hers but I definitely see myself continuing to read more from her because I like her writing style.
I thought the chemistry between Jackson and Willa was perfect, even if it took two years for Jackson to see it. At first I was a little upset that he only just started to see her as a girl when he thought she might be ready to take off. Then I realized that he probably only just noticed those things because he finally allowed himself to. He was scared that she might leave and that kickstarted his emotions and then he had to face WHY he would be so upset about her leaving.
Willa has secrets and Jackson just wants to know what she’s running from so that he can understand and support her. I will say that I don’t fully understand Willa’s reasons for hiding and being so afraid of her past once her secrets are revealed but, hey, we all have our issues, right?
This was sort of a slow-burning romance that somehow also felt like it bordered in insta-love. I think mostly because the author dove right into the attraction going from 0 to 100 is why it felt like it was quick. However, considering Willa and Jackson had been simmering for two years, as explained by the fact that everyone around them seemed to see it coming, it obviously wasn’t something that just happened overnight. It was actually a nice way to watch their relationship progress.
I’m liking the direction of the story arc of the Abbot Brothers and can’t wait to read Mack’s story next. I’m hopeful we get a redemption story for Ford too, though.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for voluntary review
Laura Trentham is a new author to me. This is only the second book I’ve read of hers but I definitely see myself continuing to read more from her because I like her writing style.
I thought the chemistry between Jackson and Willa was perfect, even if it took two years for Jackson to see it. At first I was a little upset that he only just started to see her as a girl when he thought she might be ready to take off. Then I realized that he probably only just noticed those things because he finally allowed himself to. He was scared that she might leave and that kickstarted his emotions and then he had to face WHY he would be so upset about her leaving.
Willa has secrets and Jackson just wants to know what she’s running from so that he can understand and support her. I will say that I don’t fully understand Willa’s reasons for hiding and being so afraid of her past once her secrets are revealed but, hey, we all have our issues, right?
This was sort of a slow-burning romance that somehow also felt like it bordered in insta-love. I think mostly because the author dove right into the attraction going from 0 to 100 is why it felt like it was quick. However, considering Willa and Jackson had been simmering for two years, as explained by the fact that everyone around them seemed to see it coming, it obviously wasn’t something that just happened overnight. It was actually a nice way to watch their relationship progress.
I’m liking the direction of the story arc of the Abbot Brothers and can’t wait to read Mack’s story next. I’m hopeful we get a redemption story for Ford too, though.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for voluntary review
hugbandit7's review
4.0
An enjoyable continuation in this series. I have really come to like the Abbott brothers and their kind, but sometimes wacky, ways.
This book focuses on Jackson and Willa. Willa has worked for the garage for 2 years but for some reason Jackson never really saw her until now and he is blown away by what he has missed over the last two years. Of course Willa has secrets and Jackson has to earn her trust for them to move forward.
I found myself laughing out loud in several sections, including a love scene and some of the dialogue. It just cracked me up and I appreciated the levity in the situation. I enjoyed the development of Jackson and Willa's relationship and they earn each other's trust.
There are some happy endings regarding Willa's secrets in regards to her past.
Enjoyable series and I can't wait for more.
This book focuses on Jackson and Willa. Willa has worked for the garage for 2 years but for some reason Jackson never really saw her until now and he is blown away by what he has missed over the last two years. Of course Willa has secrets and Jackson has to earn her trust for them to move forward.
I found myself laughing out loud in several sections, including a love scene and some of the dialogue. It just cracked me up and I appreciated the levity in the situation. I enjoyed the development of Jackson and Willa's relationship and they earn each other's trust.
There are some happy endings regarding Willa's secrets in regards to her past.
Enjoyable series and I can't wait for more.
novelesque_life's review
4.0
WHEN THE STARS COME OUT
(Cottonbloom: #5)
Written by Laura Trentham
JANUARY 30, 2018; St. Martin's Press (320 Pages)
Genre: series, fiction, contemporary, romance, small town
RATING: 4 STARS
As long as mysterious Willa Brown has been working at the Abbot's garage, Jackson has not noticed her, other than being a stellar mechanic. Willa has definitely noticed Jackson. She has had a crush on him since she first started working with him. Even if she could be brave enough to let him know her feelings, he is her boss and Cottonbloom is only supposed to be a stop for her. Jackson has started to notice Willa, her beauty and sensuality. He kicks himself for not noticing earlier. He also wonders what her story is and will do anything to earn her trust.
Willa is scared that someone from her past will find her and it will put the Abbot brothers in danger. She wants to confide in Jackson but doesn't want him to get hurt. Meanwhile, Jackson's eldest brother, Ford has disappeared and the Abbot brothers are afraid he may sell his share of the business. As Willa and Jackson try to help one another they give into their passion, but will Willa's secret keep them apart?
I binge read the first four Cottonbloom novels and really enjoyed my time in small quaint town. This unique town is technically in two states, and the rivalry between the two is entertaining. I love romance books set in small towns...I am a true sucker for them. With each novel, Trentham writing skills gets stronger. The writing is great with engaging plots. It is the characters, the hero and heroine and the big cast of secondary characters, that makes this series endearing to me. When I first read this series I was getting over a break up and starting to date again. I would half long for, and half scoff at the heroes. The men I was dating were much like Andrew and Derrick, instead of the heroes. I started to wonder if these were indeed "fiction only". Now having met my boyfriend, I know that there are great men out there. I don't know if it is my boyfriend and my sappiness, but I was swooning over the romance a bit more than usual. I love the chemistry between Willa and Jackson. I also loved the story line with River, the runaway dog. I recommend this series to any romance reader, and suggest reading them in order. (Each book has spoilers for past books). I cannot wait till Mack's book, and I have a feeling he will be falling a certain enemy!
***I received an eARC from the PUBLISHER via NETGALLEY***
*please visit my blog post for Q&A with Author.
My Novelesque Blog - Review and Q&A
My Novelesque Blog - Release Blitz
(Cottonbloom: #5)
Written by Laura Trentham
JANUARY 30, 2018; St. Martin's Press (320 Pages)
Genre: series, fiction, contemporary, romance, small town
RATING: 4 STARS
As long as mysterious Willa Brown has been working at the Abbot's garage, Jackson has not noticed her, other than being a stellar mechanic. Willa has definitely noticed Jackson. She has had a crush on him since she first started working with him. Even if she could be brave enough to let him know her feelings, he is her boss and Cottonbloom is only supposed to be a stop for her. Jackson has started to notice Willa, her beauty and sensuality. He kicks himself for not noticing earlier. He also wonders what her story is and will do anything to earn her trust.
Willa is scared that someone from her past will find her and it will put the Abbot brothers in danger. She wants to confide in Jackson but doesn't want him to get hurt. Meanwhile, Jackson's eldest brother, Ford has disappeared and the Abbot brothers are afraid he may sell his share of the business. As Willa and Jackson try to help one another they give into their passion, but will Willa's secret keep them apart?
I binge read the first four Cottonbloom novels and really enjoyed my time in small quaint town. This unique town is technically in two states, and the rivalry between the two is entertaining. I love romance books set in small towns...I am a true sucker for them. With each novel, Trentham writing skills gets stronger. The writing is great with engaging plots. It is the characters, the hero and heroine and the big cast of secondary characters, that makes this series endearing to me. When I first read this series I was getting over a break up and starting to date again. I would half long for, and half scoff at the heroes. The men I was dating were much like Andrew and Derrick, instead of the heroes. I started to wonder if these were indeed "fiction only". Now having met my boyfriend, I know that there are great men out there. I don't know if it is my boyfriend and my sappiness, but I was swooning over the romance a bit more than usual. I love the chemistry between Willa and Jackson. I also loved the story line with River, the runaway dog. I recommend this series to any romance reader, and suggest reading them in order. (Each book has spoilers for past books). I cannot wait till Mack's book, and I have a feeling he will be falling a certain enemy!
***I received an eARC from the PUBLISHER via NETGALLEY***
*please visit my blog post for Q&A with Author.
My Novelesque Blog - Review and Q&A
My Novelesque Blog - Release Blitz
kbranfield's review
4.0
4.5 stars.
When the Stars Come Out by Laura Trentham is a heartfelt and engaging romance. This latest addition to the beloved Cottonbloom series easily stands on its own, but I highly recommend the previous installments as well.
Willa Brown loves her job at the Abbot brothers garage but she has worked hard to remain under the radar for the past two years. She is more comfortable in her coveralls and blue jeans than frilly, feminine clothes and when not working, she keeps to herself. Maintaining a low profile in town, she has formed an unexpected but very touching friendship with librarian Marigold Dunlap. Willa has also been crushing on one of the co-owners of the garage, Jackson Abbot, ever since they met but she would never act on her attraction for him.
Jackson and Willa make a formidable team while working and although he knows she is clearly hiding something, he has never really tried to persuade her to confide in him. Once Jackson allows himself to really notice how attractive she is under her unflattering but serviceable clothes, he cannot stop thinking about her. Despite not wanting to cross a line that might make her feel uncomfortable, Jackson cannot resist helping her once he knows a little more about her life outside the garage.
Jackson and Willa are one of those couples who are just made for each other. They truly "get" what makes the other person tick and they both enjoy the same activities. They are also incredibly supportive of one another when it comes to the things they are dealing with outside of work. However, Willa has deep trust issues and she is extremely reluctant to divulge her secrets. Jackson truly wants to help Willa, but in his frustration over her inability to completely open up, he makes a decision that might end up jeopardizing their future together. Has Willa grown enough to forgive him when she finds out the truth? Or will she revert to her old pattern of running from problems instead of facing them head on?
When the Stars Come Out is an absolutely delightful romance between two emotionally damaged people. Willa is extremely closed off and incredibly skittish of making another mistake. Jackson has never quite dealt with his mother's abandonment and he and his brothers are also facing uncertainty over the future of the garage. Willa and Jackson have a bit of an uneasy transition from co-workers to lovers but their longstanding acquaintance provides a rock solid foundation for their fledgling relationship. Both Willa and Jackson undergo significant growth individually as they finally face the baggage from their respective pasts. Old and new fans of Laura Trentham will absolutely love this newest addition to the charming Cottonbloom series.
When the Stars Come Out by Laura Trentham is a heartfelt and engaging romance. This latest addition to the beloved Cottonbloom series easily stands on its own, but I highly recommend the previous installments as well.
Willa Brown loves her job at the Abbot brothers garage but she has worked hard to remain under the radar for the past two years. She is more comfortable in her coveralls and blue jeans than frilly, feminine clothes and when not working, she keeps to herself. Maintaining a low profile in town, she has formed an unexpected but very touching friendship with librarian Marigold Dunlap. Willa has also been crushing on one of the co-owners of the garage, Jackson Abbot, ever since they met but she would never act on her attraction for him.
Jackson and Willa make a formidable team while working and although he knows she is clearly hiding something, he has never really tried to persuade her to confide in him. Once Jackson allows himself to really notice how attractive she is under her unflattering but serviceable clothes, he cannot stop thinking about her. Despite not wanting to cross a line that might make her feel uncomfortable, Jackson cannot resist helping her once he knows a little more about her life outside the garage.
Jackson and Willa are one of those couples who are just made for each other. They truly "get" what makes the other person tick and they both enjoy the same activities. They are also incredibly supportive of one another when it comes to the things they are dealing with outside of work. However, Willa has deep trust issues and she is extremely reluctant to divulge her secrets. Jackson truly wants to help Willa, but in his frustration over her inability to completely open up, he makes a decision that might end up jeopardizing their future together. Has Willa grown enough to forgive him when she finds out the truth? Or will she revert to her old pattern of running from problems instead of facing them head on?
When the Stars Come Out is an absolutely delightful romance between two emotionally damaged people. Willa is extremely closed off and incredibly skittish of making another mistake. Jackson has never quite dealt with his mother's abandonment and he and his brothers are also facing uncertainty over the future of the garage. Willa and Jackson have a bit of an uneasy transition from co-workers to lovers but their longstanding acquaintance provides a rock solid foundation for their fledgling relationship. Both Willa and Jackson undergo significant growth individually as they finally face the baggage from their respective pasts. Old and new fans of Laura Trentham will absolutely love this newest addition to the charming Cottonbloom series.
alwaysreadingreview's review
5.0
This is Book #5 in the Cottonbloom series. I love reading books that are series and set in small town. The town across the street, but in a different state is named the same as Cottonbloom. I love that. I have only read Book #4 (Leave the Light On).
Willa is mysterious. Not much is known about her. What happened to this woman before she came to Cottonbloom? Why is she so afraid to use her own name? Jackson did not noticed her for 2 years. I kept thinking why not? Why now? Men!!
This was very well written. This author has definitely captured the small town feel.
☆☆☆☆☆
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes!
Read more from this author? Yes!
Happy Reading!
Melissa
cservat129's review
4.0
This is the type of setting and plot that I immerse myself in and want to finish in one sitting. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the interactions between them.
saschadarlington's review
4.0
Although When the Stars Come Out is the first Laura Trentham novel I've read, I know it won't be the last. This is a solid romance with excellent writing, fleshed out characters, and small town charm.
read more: http://saschadarlington.me/2018/01/28/review-of-when-the-stars-come-out
read more: http://saschadarlington.me/2018/01/28/review-of-when-the-stars-come-out
paddlefoot55's review
4.0
ARC received via Netgalley for an honest review
It is always great to go back to Cottonbloom, and When The Stars Come Out is another beautiful addition to this series.
If you have read the previous books, you will remember that Willa is hiding something - other than her crush on Jackson. She won't let anyone know what is going on though, she is strong and resilient and as a reader you can't help but adore her.
Jackson - sigh, what a wonderful, sexy, broody man he is. And persistent to when it comes to Willa. And I want them together!
This story is a slow burn as our lovelies find their way to each other, move on from the past and hopefully find their HEA.
I love the banter between Jackson and his brothers, and adore their family dynamic.
There is set up for big things a-happening in Cottonbloom it seems, and now I can't wait for Mack Abbot's story!
Gimme gimme gimme!
It is always great to go back to Cottonbloom, and When The Stars Come Out is another beautiful addition to this series.
If you have read the previous books, you will remember that Willa is hiding something - other than her crush on Jackson. She won't let anyone know what is going on though, she is strong and resilient and as a reader you can't help but adore her.
Jackson - sigh, what a wonderful, sexy, broody man he is. And persistent to when it comes to Willa. And I want them together!
This story is a slow burn as our lovelies find their way to each other, move on from the past and hopefully find their HEA.
I love the banter between Jackson and his brothers, and adore their family dynamic.
There is set up for big things a-happening in Cottonbloom it seems, and now I can't wait for Mack Abbot's story!
Gimme gimme gimme!