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mandischu84's review
5.0
This is a fantastic story from both Eric and Evie. Please check your triggers to make sure you’re in the right place to read this story. It’s truly heartwarming and beautiful. Evie met Eric on NYE thanks to her cousin. She also met his ex wife and new husband the same night. She’s still reeling from the experience of last Christmas and the mystery at the cabin on the lake (Read Peppermint Wishes to catch up). Eric works long hours and is often away on work trips and Evie decides she is not going to take a backseat to the job of the man she’s interested in. One night while he’s supposed to be in New York and working, Evie decides she needs to scratch that itch only another person can scratch. Eric came back to surprise Evie and finds her at a restaurant with another man and is hurt by finding that she’s trying to date someone else. Evie’s date understands and encourages her to go after him … Eric decides he’s going to take two weeks off work and take Evie camping with their dogs Bagel and Archer. Can they be together? Is their connection real? He watched her instagram feed while she was traveling around Europe thanks to her cousin and friends. Can Evie get passed this detail that he’s been watching her for far longer than the short time they’ve known each other?
bookish_heatherr's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
The Darbyverse just keeps growing and growing! If you've read Peppermint Wishes and always wondered what happened next to Evie after that shocking ending. Then wait no more because D.L. continued her story and my oh my I never thought sweet loving Eric was this dirty!!!
Eric and Evie met on NYE's at Evie's cousin's house. Right from the start there was an instant connection between the two of them and it was something that needed to be explored. I loved how open and honest Eric was to Evie and let her run this at her own pace until Eric staked his claim that is. I also loved how much Evie accepted Eric and his friendship with his ex-wife Daphne. It's an odd friendship but it's one that holds no threats. If you've read Where the Flowers Bloom it will make more sense. This couple was sweet, sexy, surprising and hilarious. And at the same time, I won't be thinking of smores the same way again. A HUMAN SMORE!!!
Thank you, D.L. for giving us the rest of Evie's story. Evie and Eric are the perfect pair that shows you just how strong love is and what it can conquer. But that epilogue you delivered had me in my feels and I thought of Lily all over again and how much she would've loved that little group!
Eric and Evie met on NYE's at Evie's cousin's house. Right from the start there was an instant connection between the two of them and it was something that needed to be explored. I loved how open and honest Eric was to Evie and let her run this at her own pace until Eric staked his claim that is. I also loved how much Evie accepted Eric and his friendship with his ex-wife Daphne. It's an odd friendship but it's one that holds no threats. If you've read Where the Flowers Bloom it will make more sense. This couple was sweet, sexy, surprising and hilarious. And at the same time, I won't be thinking of smores the same way again. A HUMAN SMORE!!!
Thank you, D.L. for giving us the rest of Evie's story. Evie and Eric are the perfect pair that shows you just how strong love is and what it can conquer. But that epilogue you delivered had me in my feels and I thought of Lily all over again and how much she would've loved that little group!
mrs_pen's review
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
lighthearted
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Continuing Evelyn’s story was amazing! She truly found her match Eric and he was more than a dream! He listened, studied and care for her in the way she never thought would be possible. In the end she received I’m sure the most beautiful gift a mother can’t explain. Enjoyed this quick sequel and the ARC opportunity!
thehufflepuffhobbit_1993's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
nbbookery's review
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Evelyn finds a second chance at love when her cousin sets her up with a friend's ex. Neither of them are strangers to a relationship not working out, but little does Evie know that Eric is all in with her. His work schedule keeps him more than busy, and Evie doesn't want to come second to a job again. He makes all the right moves by requesting time off to take her and their dogs on a camping trip. Dropping hints about their future, Evie learns Eric's very familiar with her... from her favorite books to her travel blog to her likes and dislikes. He uses everything he knows to become the best partner for her, even if he conveniently forgot the graham crackers for their s'mores.
Okay, so Eric was a total left-field bullseye. He's a golden retriever on the outside, but does he know how to jump straight to the punch or what? Man's got an uncanny set of skills, knot-tying and dirty-talking, amongst others. Absolute book husband end goal material. Evie is still the sunshine girl from her first story, but she's set on trying to find her place in the world again as a single and stationary woman. Although she wasn't looking for anything serious, Eric was determined to win her over no matter what. Their supportive family and friends were icing on the cake. And that ending was just too perfect. I loved everything about this story, and Evie's journey from broken to healed was true strength.
Okay, so Eric was a total left-field bullseye. He's a golden retriever on the outside, but does he know how to jump straight to the punch or what? Man's got an uncanny set of skills, knot-tying and dirty-talking, amongst others. Absolute book husband end goal material. Evie is still the sunshine girl from her first story, but she's set on trying to find her place in the world again as a single and stationary woman. Although she wasn't looking for anything serious, Eric was determined to win her over no matter what. Their supportive family and friends were icing on the cake. And that ending was just too perfect. I loved everything about this story, and Evie's journey from broken to healed was true strength.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infertility, Infidelity, and Sexual content
Moderate: Miscarriage, Grief, and Stalking
Minor: Death, Terminal illness, Death of parent, and Pregnancy
thesewistsbookshelf's review
4.0
Personal rating: 3⭐
Probably most people’s rating: 4⭐
2🌶️
Tropes/Themes: Second chance, Golden retriever/doberman MMC, Light BDSM, sexy s’mores, camping,
Dual POV 1st person
Starry Night Kisses is the second book in the Weekend Wonderland duet and you ABSOLUTELY need to read the first book (Peppermint Wishes) before this one because it follows Evie and her NYE’s kiss, Eric, after her “only for the weekend” with Jonathan.
I have mixed feelings about this book (different from my feelings about the first lol), and I’d say it was just an “ok” read for me. It’s my fault really. While infertility is not a trigger, adoption often comes up in these stories and even though it wasn’t listed in the trigger warnings I should’ve asked about it. I think I’m just going to avoid all stories about infertility going forward.
I also wasn’t a fan of the “pet parent” verbiage. I have a pet and I believe they’re family but I’m weirded out by the whole “pet mom/pet dad” thing.
It’s not all bad, there were parts I really enjoyed too. The spice was DEFINITELY spicing, and ermahgerd the MMC (sorry, I can’t call him by name because I have a BIL with the same name and I just….can’t 😂) He is hawwwwwt, obsessive, intensive and DELICIOUSLY possessive. His dirty talk is ON POINT. We love a golden in the streets, doberman in the sheets 🥵🥵🥵
And Evie/Eric’s relationship is just so sweet and swoony and I loved it. I’m so happy Evie got her happily ever after. Between the two, I probably liked Peppermint Wishes better but I would recommend both of these novellas.
And if you’re reading this wondering “Why would adoption need to be a trigger?” I’d encourage you to research the phrase “adoptee voices” on IG and TT to learn more.❤️
Probably most people’s rating: 4⭐
2🌶️
Tropes/Themes: Second chance, Golden retriever/doberman MMC, Light BDSM, sexy s’mores, camping,
Dual POV 1st person
Starry Night Kisses is the second book in the Weekend Wonderland duet and you ABSOLUTELY need to read the first book (Peppermint Wishes) before this one because it follows Evie and her NYE’s kiss, Eric, after her “only for the weekend” with Jonathan.
I have mixed feelings about this book (different from my feelings about the first lol), and I’d say it was just an “ok” read for me. It’s my fault really. While infertility is not a trigger, adoption often comes up in these stories and even though it wasn’t listed in the trigger warnings I should’ve asked about it. I think I’m just going to avoid all stories about infertility going forward.
I also wasn’t a fan of the “pet parent” verbiage. I have a pet and I believe they’re family but I’m weirded out by the whole “pet mom/pet dad” thing.
It’s not all bad, there were parts I really enjoyed too. The spice was DEFINITELY spicing, and ermahgerd the MMC (sorry, I can’t call him by name because I have a BIL with the same name and I just….can’t 😂) He is hawwwwwt, obsessive, intensive and DELICIOUSLY possessive. His dirty talk is ON POINT. We love a golden in the streets, doberman in the sheets 🥵🥵🥵
And Evie/Eric’s relationship is just so sweet and swoony and I loved it. I’m so happy Evie got her happily ever after. Between the two, I probably liked Peppermint Wishes better but I would recommend both of these novellas.
And if you’re reading this wondering “Why would adoption need to be a trigger?” I’d encourage you to research the phrase “adoptee voices” on IG and TT to learn more.❤️
drenno040321's review
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
4.0
Eric is the ending to this story that I didn't know I needed.
Starry Night Kisses is the follow up to Peppermint Wishes, which I highly recommend you read first. This story picks back up on Evie's life post traveling and Jonathan. Her cousin is currently trying to set her up with the sweetest man ever. Bonus points? Eric might already be a fan of hers!
I absolutely love that while this was a shorter book, it was not such an instant romance based on timeline like Peppermint was. We see the main characters relationship develop over a few months time. Initially, Evie is hesitant to open up to Eric because his work life reminds her a lot of her ex husband. On the same hand, Eric is reluctant to open up for fear of scaring Evelyn off. Can anyone say miscommunication trope?!
Eric also adds a little bit of golden retriever to the general public....but alpha in private and I am here for those type of MMCs. Plus? No one can ever look at s'mores the same way now ;)
Highly recommend this book to those that enjoy a cinnamon roll MMC with a touch of dominance in the bedroom activities, found family, healing during an HEA, and those that enjoy doggy companions! Archer and Bagel need all the good boy ear scratches!
Starry Night Kisses is the follow up to Peppermint Wishes, which I highly recommend you read first. This story picks back up on Evie's life post traveling and Jonathan. Her cousin is currently trying to set her up with the sweetest man ever. Bonus points? Eric might already be a fan of hers!
I absolutely love that while this was a shorter book, it was not such an instant romance based on timeline like Peppermint was. We see the main characters relationship develop over a few months time. Initially, Evie is hesitant to open up to Eric because his work life reminds her a lot of her ex husband. On the same hand, Eric is reluctant to open up for fear of scaring Evelyn off. Can anyone say miscommunication trope?!
Eric also adds a little bit of golden retriever to the general public....but alpha in private and I am here for those type of MMCs. Plus? No one can ever look at s'mores the same way now ;)
Highly recommend this book to those that enjoy a cinnamon roll MMC with a touch of dominance in the bedroom activities, found family, healing during an HEA, and those that enjoy doggy companions! Archer and Bagel need all the good boy ear scratches!
Content Warnings
Minor: Infertility
mushmysteriesandmore's review
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
A direct follow-up from Peppermint Kisses, it is recommended that you read that one first before starting this one as you get the complete story. I didn’t have the luxury of doing that so I wasn’t aware of the back story for Evie. I still thoroughly enjoyed this book without it so it’s not vital, just recommended.
Eric and Evie have an instant connection following a New Year’s Eve kiss but then Evie backs off, wary of falling for someone again so quickly. Also, Eric’s job takes him away a lot and this was the same as her ex-husband so she didn’t want to go through that again. However, after a steamy texting session and a tied to the table scenario, Evie is left in no doubt of Eric’s feelings for her and agrees to go camping with him. And then the spice really hits.
Eric is the complete package. He’s such a sweet guy, a real teddy bear/golden retriever male but underneath and in the bedroom, he is a dominant Doberman, an alpha male through and through. Evie is open and receptive and enjoys her time with Eric and eventually lets him into her heart as well as her bedroom.
Their relationship was built on trust and openness and it was good to see them grow and develop as the story went on, despite the fact it was a short novella. There was still enough character arc for both of them.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
honeydipped229's review
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
This was so good. Evie and Eric's chemistry was so good. I loved that Eric was both a cinnamon roll with a dominant side. The epilogue made my heart melt. A quick sweet and spicy read in between heavy themed dark romance books.
celeste77's review
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
This was a good read! This is the second book after Peppermint Wishes. It picks up right where it ended. I enjoyed it! If you liked Peppermint Wishes, then I definitely recommend this one. There is spice and romance. It’s also a very quick read.