Review: Flirting with Alaska by Belle Calhoune

Author Belle Calhoune brings us back to Moose Falls, Alaska in the second book of her charming series, Falling for Alaska. In this book, we get to dive into the life of the middle brother Caleb, a reformed bad boy who unexpectedly falls for a local single mom in this small town romance.

When a reality show destroys his reputation and puts his Hollywood dreams on hold, Caleb finds himself needing to take some time to get things together and what better place for that to be than Moose Falls, Alaska. Between the beautiful scenery and his family business there, this being the perfect place to get out the spotlight, clear his head, it will allow him the chance to take a break and help with the business.

Being the charmer he is, his charm seems too irresistible to all the ladies there except one, a single mom who was all familiar with the type of guy he is. After watching the reality show debacle that involved him, and all the gossip surrounding him, he was the last person she’d have interest in. She’s had enough of his type and was not going to be swayed by his charm.

As they are brought together by a project at his family’s business and find themselves working closely together, she sees another side that softens her criticism of him. As time goes on, they both find themselves open to the possibilities and when your guard comes down, between the beautiful setting and their heartfelt connection, this Hollywood star might just have found his leading lady.

I love this series. There’s so much to love about the characters but in reference to this book, Caleb’s journey from being a punchline to someone adored and respected, his relationship with Sophia and how that evolved and changed him dating a single mother was such a wonderful read. Sophia is someone that will be relatable to those single moms out there who struggle with balancing being a mom and finding love, she is someone to be admired. These two characters with their own struggles who when they let their guards down became vulnerable, allowed them to grow which made them characters that you were not going to accept less than to be together. It was definitely a slow burn but one worth it.

Of course we see familiar faces returning as integral parts to their storylines. I just love the familial community and warmth they bring to the book. The beautiful setting and the small town vibes bring an authenticity that places you in the heart of Alaska. Flirting With Alaska, with its heartwarming story of second chances, redemption and unexpected love will be perfect for those who love romance.

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Review: Falling for Alaska by Belle Calhoune

Belle Calhoune sets the beautiful stage of Moose Falls, Alaska with her latest, Falling for Alaska. With all the charm and beauty of this small town romance, she pens a captivating novel of love, forgiveness and second chances that will leave you feeling good.

Former pro-football player Xavier Stone returns to his hometown reluctantly, tasked with helping his grandmother's cider company and gastro pub. Yet, he finds himself facing not only the challenges of running the family business but also confronting his past and strained relationships with his family. Enter True Everett, the determined and spirited owner of the restaurant managed by Xavier's grandmother. Sparks fly between Xavier and True, but their initial animosity threatens to derail any chance of romance.

As the book progresses with this enemies to lovers theme, they tread through their differences and confront their own insecurities, leading us towards a beautiful journey filled with heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy romance hea..

There are so many things to love about this book but most striking is the imagery throughout the book that places the reader right in this beautiful town. The setting that is created adds to the charm and character of not only the book but is giving you such a comforting feeling throughout. 

Beyond the beautiful setting are the wonderful characters. There is such depth and richness to them, the obstacles that have weighed down their lives brought them together but their vulnerability and insecurities make them relatable. Xavier's struggle to reconcile with his past dealing with a father who abandoned him and a his ex that left him at the worst of his life made it hard for him to trust. True, who after losing her parents sacrificed her life to raise her brother, is doing everything to protect what she has built for them with fear that she will lose everything. 

These two independent struggles give you something to root for. Not just the journey for them finding their destiny but the second chance to find the joy and happiness that they seemed to have been robbed from. 

In addition to them, we are blessed with the wonderful relationship between Xavier and his brothers.The fun banter and their loving relationship adds to the charm. His grandmother creates some sassy moments that will make you smile. And the cute moments between Tru and her brother will make you laugh and your heart smile for the love she has for him. 

Overall, this is another wonderful book to add to the small town romance pile that you plan to read if you haven’t already. This has all the charm of a great storyline, wonderful characters that will love, and a gorgeous setting. Not sure about the details about the second book other than it looks like it will be out in the fall.

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