[Pat's Review]: "Carolina Dreaming"

Carolina Dreaming by Virginia Kantra
Publisher: Berkley (February 2, 2016)
Series: Dare Island, 5
Genre: Contemporary Romance

When it comes to love, anything can happen on Dare Island—especially in this latest novel from New York Times bestselling author Virginia Kantra.   

After escaping a disastrous marriage, bakery owner Jane Clark has convinced herself that she has everything she needs—her precious son, a thriving business, and a roof over her head. But the arrival of a handsome stranger on the island shows her exactly what she’s been missing...   

The only home Gabe Murphy ever had was the Marine Corps. He's working hard to rebuild his life. It will take a special place, and a special woman, to make him want to stay.   

Now Gabe is determined to prove that he's worthy of Jane’s trust—and her love. But when her past reappears, that trust will be tested, and Jane and Gabe will have to fight hard to hold onto their love and make their dreams a reality... 

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Pat's Review:



This is the first Dare Island novel I have read. It can be read as a stand alone, but now I want to read all the previous stories, to catch up.


Gabe Murphy, former Marine, ex-con is trying to get his life back. He has hitch hiked across the country after being released from prison. He was pronounced not guilty, but most of the men he worked with didn't trust him, so he hit the road. Dare Island holds some good memories, and a great Marine buddy, Luke Fletcher. He's broke, very scruffy and dirty, but determined to start over. Along the way he is adopted by an equally scruffy, hungry dog. They both needed each other, so Luke accepts him and calls him Lucky. Gabe just wants a simple life now, a good job, a roof over his head and no drama. Seems reasonable, until he meets Jane Clark, owner and baker at Jane's Sweet House. She is also the daughter of Chief of Police Clark, who disliked him on sight.


Jane Clark has a seven year old son Aidan, and an ex husband in jail. She lives with her Dad who helps her care for Aidan. Her dream was to open a bakery, and it is finally coming true. She was raised by her father after her Mom left them, and he was bitter and angry after she left. He did his best,  but she missed a mother's touch and love. She married Travis at eighteen, realized after the fact he was a loser, nine months later she was blessed with Aidan. She finally experienced what complete love was. Travis was abusive verbally and physically, and after pressing charges after one of his tirades, he was sent to prison. First meeting Gabe, she was terrified because he looked like Travis, but after getting to know him, she realized he was nothing like him. As much as she was terrified about commitment, she is attracted and drawn to him and his dog.


Tender growing  feelings for each other builds into love. Aidan likes Gabe, and is comfortable with him. Her Dad won't back down from his belief that he is trouble, but danger is lurking and Gabe is right by her side. The other characters in this series are equally enjoyable. As I said before, I will be catching up on previous novels. Since North Carolina is my home now, I know these stories will be especially fun to read.

4 STARS! 

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Pat received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for her honest opinion.

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Thanks for the review, Pat! :)

Have you read Virginia Kantra before? Do you have a favorite of hers?

Enjoy!


Until Next Time,




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