What do you think?
Rate this book
Sterling Falls #1
Sterling Heat
Love wasn’t the daily special when a grumpy small-town baker delivers a baby in his bakery. Now, all he can think about is that sweet bundle and her tempting single mother.
Having a baby in a bakery gives new meaning to taking the bun out of the oven.
I’d been in Curmudgeon Bakery for one of those lemon baby-Bundt cakes I’d been craving since I found out I was pregnant.
The draw had nothing to do with the baker himself. Tall, tatted, and edgy, looking more like a biker than a man who makes baked goods. I hardly knew him other than taking a tumble in a rainstorm in front of his shop . . . and then tossing myself at him after he rescued me.
We shared a moment but it’s not what you’d think.
Months later, he delivered my baby among his cookies and cakes. Talk about a second chance encounter.
Then he whips up a plan to pretend to be my baby’s father, and everything heats up from there.
My body.
My heart.
My willingness to accept a perfect stranger’s kindness despite him telling me over and over he isn’t who I think he is.
I beg to differ.
He’s that sugary drizzle on a citrus-flavored, guilty pleasure that’s bad for the hips, but together—him, and me, and baby—we’re the perfect blend of ingredients that might do all our hearts some good.
Having a baby in a bakery gives new meaning to taking the bun out of the oven.
I’d been in Curmudgeon Bakery for one of those lemon baby-Bundt cakes I’d been craving since I found out I was pregnant.
The draw had nothing to do with the baker himself. Tall, tatted, and edgy, looking more like a biker than a man who makes baked goods. I hardly knew him other than taking a tumble in a rainstorm in front of his shop . . . and then tossing myself at him after he rescued me.
We shared a moment but it’s not what you’d think.
Months later, he delivered my baby among his cookies and cakes. Talk about a second chance encounter.
Then he whips up a plan to pretend to be my baby’s father, and everything heats up from there.
My body.
My heart.
My willingness to accept a perfect stranger’s kindness despite him telling me over and over he isn’t who I think he is.
I beg to differ.
He’s that sugary drizzle on a citrus-flavored, guilty pleasure that’s bad for the hips, but together—him, and me, and baby—we’re the perfect blend of ingredients that might do all our hearts some good.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 21, 2023
About the author
L.B. Dunbar
82 books2,999 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling Author
Receive once-a-month updates and more with Love Notes: http://bit.ly/LoveNotesfromLBDunbar
L.B. Dunbar loves flip flops, sweet tea, and a little heat in her romance reads. A lover of sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns, you’ll find all this and more in her signature work the #sexysilverfox collection. She’s also made Amazon Top 10 in Later in Life Romance with her Lakeside Cottage and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.
To stay up-to-date about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her monthly newsletter, Love Notes.
FB: www.facebook.com/lbdunbarauthor
NL: http://bit.ly/LoveNotesfromLBDunbar
IG: @lbdunbarwrites
FB Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Lovin...
Receive once-a-month updates and more with Love Notes: http://bit.ly/LoveNotesfromLBDunbar
L.B. Dunbar loves flip flops, sweet tea, and a little heat in her romance reads. A lover of sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns, you’ll find all this and more in her signature work the #sexysilverfox collection. She’s also made Amazon Top 10 in Later in Life Romance with her Lakeside Cottage and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.
To stay up-to-date about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her monthly newsletter, Love Notes.
FB: www.facebook.com/lbdunbarauthor
NL: http://bit.ly/LoveNotesfromLBDunbar
IG: @lbdunbarwrites
FB Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Lovin...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
September 22, 2023
Wonderfully endearing story ❤
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: protector
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
This was really just a wonderful story. I'm not usually a fan of super angsty reads, but this author will definitely be my pick when the mood strikes me. This is my first book by her and I wasn't sure what to expect past the fact that the heroine met the hero while pregnant (which I love), but ill definitely be coming back for more. The story was interesting, paced well, and had some great twists along with a heavy dose of redemption. Just perfect!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: protector
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
This was really just a wonderful story. I'm not usually a fan of super angsty reads, but this author will definitely be my pick when the mood strikes me. This is my first book by her and I wasn't sure what to expect past the fact that the heroine met the hero while pregnant (which I love), but ill definitely be coming back for more. The story was interesting, paced well, and had some great twists along with a heavy dose of redemption. Just perfect!
September 29, 2023
Found family win
The best part about this was the look on my husband’s face when I told him that he’s older than the hero in this silver fox romance, lol. Kidding. But he was aghast, and it was hysterical. I’ve been meaning to check out this new-to-me author, and the blurb drew me right in. There’s just something about a man who keeps denying that he’s a good guy when his actions show the exact opposite to be true. I loved watching him step up and be a father to a baby that he knew was not his, and there were plenty of quiet, super swoony moments. Though there were moments when the writing was a little odd, I sincerely enjoyed the first half of this slow-burning romance. It’s got great small town vibes, a definite found family quality, and a “broken” hero who was very compelling. He’s overcome a lot of obstacles in his life, and watching him find his HEA was fulfilling. The back half wasn’t as strong for me because the story just got repetitive, but it was a solid series starter and an engaging read.
The story follows Sebastian (35), a man who found his happy place running a bakery in his hometown. Though everyone in town is well aware of his troubled past, Sebastian finds quiet contentment in the life he leads. When a woman takes a tumble in front of his bakery, Sebastian finds himself strangely compelled towards the sexy stranger… at least until she reveals she’s pregnant. Sebastian does not consider himself to be worthy of love or a family, so he pushes Enya (38) away, never planning to see her again. It’s a shock to them both when Enya shows up months later and Sebastian ends up delivering her baby. Though he knows it’s for the best if he stays away, Sebastian can’t seem to help himself when it comes to Enya or her baby girl. Try as he might to keep his distance, everything about Enya pulls Sebastian closer.
I loved that Enya was already pregnant when she met Sebastian and there was no father in the picture, because it showcased all of the ways Sebastian stepped up for her. He’s constantly telling himself that he’d be no good for either of them in the long run, but everything he does says the opposite. The moments with him being the sweetest, most smitten man were plentiful and very enjoyable. I thought they made a great team. Though there is a lot of potentially triggering content in both characters' storylines, the overall vibes are light. Where this stumbled was the repetitive nature of the story - both characters are feeling the connection early on, so it got old hearing the same old excuses over and over again. There were glimmers of greatness in the story but also many missed opportunities, and I became frustrated with the constant push/pull. These two communicate well about a lot of things, but they also interpreted conversations and actions very differently, which caused some issues. I do think the first half was stronger, and once I started to disconnect from the story, the writing problems started standing out to me - weird comma usage and some seriously strange descriptions. No one should compare slurping soup to anything in a spicy scene. The first half was a solid 4/low 5-star read for me while the second half dragged closer to a 3, but I enjoyed the book quite a bit and I’d definitely check out another. This one likely has the youngest hero of the series, so at least my husband will be feeling better about the next one, lol!
Audio note: Samantha Brentmoor was fantastic, Lance Greenfield was terrible. I’ve enjoyed Brentmoor in the past, and she does an excellent job here as well. Her voice is relaxing to listen to, and she brings plenty of emotion to the performance. I should’ve looked a little more thoroughly at the narrators though, because the moment I heard Greenfield’s voice, I remembered how much I despise his narration style. It gives me the ick, intensely. He’s got a nice voice, but he overacts so much that it’s just all wrong and smarmy, taking me out of the story. I ended up listening to Brentmoor’s chapters and switching to the ebook (borrowed from KU, thankfully) for all of Greenfield’s chapters. So I can’t wholeheartedly recommend the audio, but that’s just my personal reaction to his voice. The runtime is 11-12 hours and the romance is a slow burn (after one initial moment between them), so it served as a relaxing workday listen for the most part.
The best part about this was the look on my husband’s face when I told him that he’s older than the hero in this silver fox romance, lol. Kidding. But he was aghast, and it was hysterical. I’ve been meaning to check out this new-to-me author, and the blurb drew me right in. There’s just something about a man who keeps denying that he’s a good guy when his actions show the exact opposite to be true. I loved watching him step up and be a father to a baby that he knew was not his, and there were plenty of quiet, super swoony moments. Though there were moments when the writing was a little odd, I sincerely enjoyed the first half of this slow-burning romance. It’s got great small town vibes, a definite found family quality, and a “broken” hero who was very compelling. He’s overcome a lot of obstacles in his life, and watching him find his HEA was fulfilling. The back half wasn’t as strong for me because the story just got repetitive, but it was a solid series starter and an engaging read.
The story follows Sebastian (35), a man who found his happy place running a bakery in his hometown. Though everyone in town is well aware of his troubled past, Sebastian finds quiet contentment in the life he leads. When a woman takes a tumble in front of his bakery, Sebastian finds himself strangely compelled towards the sexy stranger… at least until she reveals she’s pregnant. Sebastian does not consider himself to be worthy of love or a family, so he pushes Enya (38) away, never planning to see her again. It’s a shock to them both when Enya shows up months later and Sebastian ends up delivering her baby. Though he knows it’s for the best if he stays away, Sebastian can’t seem to help himself when it comes to Enya or her baby girl. Try as he might to keep his distance, everything about Enya pulls Sebastian closer.
I loved that Enya was already pregnant when she met Sebastian and there was no father in the picture, because it showcased all of the ways Sebastian stepped up for her. He’s constantly telling himself that he’d be no good for either of them in the long run, but everything he does says the opposite. The moments with him being the sweetest, most smitten man were plentiful and very enjoyable. I thought they made a great team. Though there is a lot of potentially triggering content in both characters' storylines, the overall vibes are light. Where this stumbled was the repetitive nature of the story - both characters are feeling the connection early on, so it got old hearing the same old excuses over and over again. There were glimmers of greatness in the story but also many missed opportunities, and I became frustrated with the constant push/pull. These two communicate well about a lot of things, but they also interpreted conversations and actions very differently, which caused some issues. I do think the first half was stronger, and once I started to disconnect from the story, the writing problems started standing out to me - weird comma usage and some seriously strange descriptions. No one should compare slurping soup to anything in a spicy scene. The first half was a solid 4/low 5-star read for me while the second half dragged closer to a 3, but I enjoyed the book quite a bit and I’d definitely check out another. This one likely has the youngest hero of the series, so at least my husband will be feeling better about the next one, lol!
Audio note: Samantha Brentmoor was fantastic, Lance Greenfield was terrible. I’ve enjoyed Brentmoor in the past, and she does an excellent job here as well. Her voice is relaxing to listen to, and she brings plenty of emotion to the performance. I should’ve looked a little more thoroughly at the narrators though, because the moment I heard Greenfield’s voice, I remembered how much I despise his narration style. It gives me the ick, intensely. He’s got a nice voice, but he overacts so much that it’s just all wrong and smarmy, taking me out of the story. I ended up listening to Brentmoor’s chapters and switching to the ebook (borrowed from KU, thankfully) for all of Greenfield’s chapters. So I can’t wholeheartedly recommend the audio, but that’s just my personal reaction to his voice. The runtime is 11-12 hours and the romance is a slow burn (after one initial moment between them), so it served as a relaxing workday listen for the most part.
September 27, 2023
I really like Dunbar's books but this was a slog to get through. It felt repetitive - to the point where it became boring. But then, it picked up in the last 15%. I would have liked to see the action happen earlier and then have that been drawn out to get a bit more suspense and tension. The last 15-20% was the most interesting.
September 14, 2023
Well. Sebastien Sylver swept in here and stole my heart, and I didn't even get any of his lemon bundt cakes. He was so gruff but underneath that was the most caring, loving man who did not think he deserved love and a family. And sweet Enya, who just wanted to love someone and have them love her back. Add in the addition of baby Adara and I was pulling so hard for them! I really had a moment where I wanted to shake Sebastien, but I knew he'd get out of his head and listen to his heart.
We have a huge Sylver family introduced here. I am anxious to read about them.
We have a huge Sylver family introduced here. I am anxious to read about them.
September 9, 2023
This one is so freaking good and I’m head-over-heels in love with it! The meet cute is charming and unique. Enya Calloway falls in the rain outside the Curmudgeon Bakery and Sebastian Sylver steps outside and rescues her. This leads to a lemon baby Bundt cake, her blurting out that she's pregnant, and Enya's walking away.
Months later, Enya is back in Sterling Falls and stops by the bakery for her biggest pregnancy craving, those lemon Bundt cakes. Before she can partake, she goes into labor, and it’s a quick one. So quick, Sebastian ends up delivering baby Adara. The only problem? He's feeling very protective of both his girls and can’t seem to stay away.
Why would he stay away? Sebastian is the town troublemaker who has spent time in jail. Due to his parents' example, he doesn’t believe in love and doesn’t think he'll ever have a family of his own. Because of his past, he believes he's not worthy of Enya and Adara. But his heart has other ideas and when danger comes, he fears his past has caught up with him, putting his girls at risk.
Holy wow, there is so much to love about this one! The small-town setting is warm and inviting, and the secondary characters are vivid and colorful so you either love them or hate them. Sebastian's siblings are all-around amazing and solidly there for each other.
Seeing this big, tough, closed-off guy be vulnerable and show his marshmallow heart is everything. And him with baby Adara? SWOON!! It's humorous, heartfelt, evocative, tender, smexy, and one of my very favorite reads this year. Nail-biting suspense and jaw-dropping twists combined with a beautiful, enchanting, soul-mate romance makes this a masterful, unforgettable read that you absolutely won’t want to miss!
Months later, Enya is back in Sterling Falls and stops by the bakery for her biggest pregnancy craving, those lemon Bundt cakes. Before she can partake, she goes into labor, and it’s a quick one. So quick, Sebastian ends up delivering baby Adara. The only problem? He's feeling very protective of both his girls and can’t seem to stay away.
Why would he stay away? Sebastian is the town troublemaker who has spent time in jail. Due to his parents' example, he doesn’t believe in love and doesn’t think he'll ever have a family of his own. Because of his past, he believes he's not worthy of Enya and Adara. But his heart has other ideas and when danger comes, he fears his past has caught up with him, putting his girls at risk.
Holy wow, there is so much to love about this one! The small-town setting is warm and inviting, and the secondary characters are vivid and colorful so you either love them or hate them. Sebastian's siblings are all-around amazing and solidly there for each other.
Seeing this big, tough, closed-off guy be vulnerable and show his marshmallow heart is everything. And him with baby Adara? SWOON!! It's humorous, heartfelt, evocative, tender, smexy, and one of my very favorite reads this year. Nail-biting suspense and jaw-dropping twists combined with a beautiful, enchanting, soul-mate romance makes this a masterful, unforgettable read that you absolutely won’t want to miss!
October 1, 2023
This book has the most unreal childbirth scene I’ve ever read and that’s all I’m taking away from the experience because everything else is forgettable. The characters are so damn confusing and yet so damn cliche, I was torn between being angry and bored.
When I read a series from a author sometimes I’m reading a book and wondering if could possibly be the same author I’ve read another series before. And that’s happened here. I cannot believe this author wrote this because it’s so different from her past writing in a way that it almost feel like her first book and she has no clue about cohesion or character’s development.
When I read a series from a author sometimes I’m reading a book and wondering if could possibly be the same author I’ve read another series before. And that’s happened here. I cannot believe this author wrote this because it’s so different from her past writing in a way that it almost feel like her first book and she has no clue about cohesion or character’s development.
October 1, 2023
For the first 75% of the book, we have the H lamenting constantly about his past and how he couldn’t possibly be good enough for the h. The pulling her in and pushing her away becomes irritating and eye rolling. The mystery, while adding a little bit of intrigue, seemed out of place and added very little to the overall story. All in all, not my favorite LBD book. 3* Sugar* stars!!!!!!
March 27, 2024
4 Grumpy, Sexy Stars
L.B. Dunbar always hits the mark for me. She has this way of creating situations that flow, have continual interest, and just enough push/pull between the couples to keep me wanting everything promised.
She delivers more than promised and I get the feels I want.
L.B. Dunbar always hits the mark for me. She has this way of creating situations that flow, have continual interest, and just enough push/pull between the couples to keep me wanting everything promised.
She delivers more than promised and I get the feels I want.
September 21, 2023
4 Stars
2/5 Spice
This book was super cute! From the meet-cute to the baby to the end of the story, this book sucked me right in. I can appreciate a book where the characters are both in their mid-late thirties because it’s easy to relate to. Both Enya and Sebastian aren’t looking for love, yet sometimes it creeps up on you when it’s least expected.
Enya trips in front of Sebastian’s bakery on her way to her car, and he helps her back into the bakery to get dried off. She explains she was out celebrating her pregnancy and just wanted a lemon Bundt cake. There is a sizzle in the air with how strong their instant connection is, and after they chat for a while it’s time for Enya to leave. Before she leaves, they have the most amazing kiss. They go their separate ways yet can’t get each other out of their heads.
Months later, she stops back at the bakery, now 34 weeks pregnant, and is craving a lemon Bundt cake. Well, she never does get that cake because her baby wants to come, NOW. Sebastian steps up and delivers her baby and immediately knows he’s in trouble where the two of them are concerned.
Sebastian had a tough past. He did some things that landed him in jail for several years, and once he got out, he opened his bakery to keep him sane. He doesn’t think he deserves happiness, yet he can’t seem to stay away from the two girls that make him happy, Enya and Adara. He visits her at the hospital, and since Enya delivered her baby early and has high blood pressure, she can’t see her little girl. Sebastian pretends to be the daddy to go in and facetime Enya so she can see Adara.
Things progress quickly when Sebastian suggests Enya stay with him until her house is ready to move into, and when Adara gets out of the NICU, Enya moves into her own house. Sebastian feels like something is missing after Enya moves out, and he knows he’ll never be able to live without her and Adara.
Sebastian thinks he has a lot to prove when it comes to Enya and being worthy of her. He’s told her about his past, and she never judged him. He doesn’t think he deserves the two of them, but he realizes he can't live without them!
2/5 Spice
This book was super cute! From the meet-cute to the baby to the end of the story, this book sucked me right in. I can appreciate a book where the characters are both in their mid-late thirties because it’s easy to relate to. Both Enya and Sebastian aren’t looking for love, yet sometimes it creeps up on you when it’s least expected.
Enya trips in front of Sebastian’s bakery on her way to her car, and he helps her back into the bakery to get dried off. She explains she was out celebrating her pregnancy and just wanted a lemon Bundt cake. There is a sizzle in the air with how strong their instant connection is, and after they chat for a while it’s time for Enya to leave. Before she leaves, they have the most amazing kiss. They go their separate ways yet can’t get each other out of their heads.
Months later, she stops back at the bakery, now 34 weeks pregnant, and is craving a lemon Bundt cake. Well, she never does get that cake because her baby wants to come, NOW. Sebastian steps up and delivers her baby and immediately knows he’s in trouble where the two of them are concerned.
Sebastian had a tough past. He did some things that landed him in jail for several years, and once he got out, he opened his bakery to keep him sane. He doesn’t think he deserves happiness, yet he can’t seem to stay away from the two girls that make him happy, Enya and Adara. He visits her at the hospital, and since Enya delivered her baby early and has high blood pressure, she can’t see her little girl. Sebastian pretends to be the daddy to go in and facetime Enya so she can see Adara.
Things progress quickly when Sebastian suggests Enya stay with him until her house is ready to move into, and when Adara gets out of the NICU, Enya moves into her own house. Sebastian feels like something is missing after Enya moves out, and he knows he’ll never be able to live without her and Adara.
Sebastian thinks he has a lot to prove when it comes to Enya and being worthy of her. He’s told her about his past, and she never judged him. He doesn’t think he deserves the two of them, but he realizes he can't live without them!
October 3, 2023
*****5 Curmudgeon Stars*****
I loved loved this. Only if Enya met Sebastien before she made her dream come true. Sebastian is knowing as the town troublemaker who has spent time in jail but he has come out on the other side a much better man. Enya trips in front of Sebastian’s bakery on her way to her car, and Sebastian helps her and gets her back into the bakery to get dried off. These two how the hit it off but don’t let go any further than that. Fast-forward a few months later Enya 34 weeks pregnant and is craving a lemon Bundt cake and is not sure how she going to be able to look Sebastian in the eye’s but she does know she need that lemon Bundt cake. But nothing every goes down so easily Enya goes into labor and man the rest goes from there. I’m leaving so much out because this such a great read that I want to read. I can’t wait to read more!!
*****ARC from Wordsmith Publicity*****
I loved loved this. Only if Enya met Sebastien before she made her dream come true. Sebastian is knowing as the town troublemaker who has spent time in jail but he has come out on the other side a much better man. Enya trips in front of Sebastian’s bakery on her way to her car, and Sebastian helps her and gets her back into the bakery to get dried off. These two how the hit it off but don’t let go any further than that. Fast-forward a few months later Enya 34 weeks pregnant and is craving a lemon Bundt cake and is not sure how she going to be able to look Sebastian in the eye’s but she does know she need that lemon Bundt cake. But nothing every goes down so easily Enya goes into labor and man the rest goes from there. I’m leaving so much out because this such a great read that I want to read. I can’t wait to read more!!
*****ARC from Wordsmith Publicity*****
October 14, 2023
Enya meets Sebastian at his bakery when she finds out she’s pregnant and comes to get one of his cakes to celebrate. She falls outside during a storm, and he comes to help her up. They share a cake and a scorching kiss, and she leaves. Then several months later she comes back now 34 weeks pregnant and ends up going into labor in the bakery.
Enya has pre-eclampsia so she can’t see the baby once they get to the hospital, so Sebastian pretends to be the baby’s dad so he can video chat with Enya so she can see her baby. She names the baby Adara.
Over the next few weeks, the couple grows closer. Sebastian starts wanting things he thinks he shouldn’t. Enya starts envisioning a future with Sebastian even though he’s said it over and over (and over and over again) that he isn’t family man material. The constant self doubt got a little old.
Some side stuff happens with her house being broken into and money coming up missing from the bakery. Some of it very predictable but all in all a good book. I loved the bonus scene you can download at the end too that’s set 5 years in the future.
Enya has pre-eclampsia so she can’t see the baby once they get to the hospital, so Sebastian pretends to be the baby’s dad so he can video chat with Enya so she can see her baby. She names the baby Adara.
Over the next few weeks, the couple grows closer. Sebastian starts wanting things he thinks he shouldn’t. Enya starts envisioning a future with Sebastian even though he’s said it over and over (and over and over again) that he isn’t family man material. The constant self doubt got a little old.
Some side stuff happens with her house being broken into and money coming up missing from the bakery. Some of it very predictable but all in all a good book. I loved the bonus scene you can download at the end too that’s set 5 years in the future.
January 11, 2024
When the 37 year old main mail character acts like a 16 year old , constantly needs reassurances and can't ( through almost the whole book ) take his head out of his ass and do the right thing - It's a real turn off.
The book was too long , too angsty for nothing really .
The book was too long , too angsty for nothing really .
April 11, 2024
Sebastian and Enya have two chance meetings. After the first one, they couldn't get the other off their minds. For all of Sebastian's "I'm not gonna be a Daddy" comments, he sure changed his mind once he saw that baby. Without even realizing it, he became hers and Enya's protector. I do agree with some reviewers that is was a bit slow going, I still really enjoyed their story.
Samantha Brentmoor and Lance Greenfield did a fantastic job with the characters.
Samantha Brentmoor and Lance Greenfield did a fantastic job with the characters.
September 29, 2023
Eh
It started out ok, but it got so repetitive with the whoa is me, and 'their my flames' that I seriously hurt my eyes rolling them so much.
The characters are fleshed out enough either. I guess the cover model was our H, but who was the h other than her hair and eye color?
Honestly, it felt like these two were just desperate to latch on to someone. Especially the h, she basically attached herself to him because as she said, he's her hero.
Another reviewer mentioned the word slog as what it felt like to read this, and I agree 100%.
It started out ok, but it got so repetitive with the whoa is me, and 'their my flames' that I seriously hurt my eyes rolling them so much.
The characters are fleshed out enough either. I guess the cover model was our H, but who was the h other than her hair and eye color?
Honestly, it felt like these two were just desperate to latch on to someone. Especially the h, she basically attached herself to him because as she said, he's her hero.
Another reviewer mentioned the word slog as what it felt like to read this, and I agree 100%.
October 9, 2023
Started well
I liked the way this book started, the way Enya and Sebastian met, and it progressed along nicely for a few chapters, but Sebastian just lost me after awhile with his constant self doubts and waffling back and forth about his feelings. And she sticks with a guy for eleven years with absolutely no indication of commitment, then falls immediately for another commitment phobe. I'm not a fan of "love solves it all", sometimes you need therapy.
I liked the way this book started, the way Enya and Sebastian met, and it progressed along nicely for a few chapters, but Sebastian just lost me after awhile with his constant self doubts and waffling back and forth about his feelings. And she sticks with a guy for eleven years with absolutely no indication of commitment, then falls immediately for another commitment phobe. I'm not a fan of "love solves it all", sometimes you need therapy.
January 13, 2024
5-star review of Sterling Heat by L B Dunbar
If there is one thing I know, it is that L.B. Dunbar never fails to deliver an entertaining story with characters who are engaging and so easy to relate to; probably because her characters are more mature and closer to my age.
From the first to the last chapter, I was captivated by the story she wove about Enya Calloway and Sebastian Sylver. Set in a small town, I was intrigued when I read the blurb for Sterling Heat. When Sebastian delivers Enya’s baby in his bakery, I just knew we were in for an entertaining story.
This is a beautifully written, witty, and emotional at times story that ticked every box for me. Sebastian and Enya have a connection no ne can break and it was obvious that they were meat to be together, if only Enya can convince him that he is what she and her daughter need.
This was an emotional journey that got to me on numerous levels.
If there is one thing I know, it is that L.B. Dunbar never fails to deliver an entertaining story with characters who are engaging and so easy to relate to; probably because her characters are more mature and closer to my age.
From the first to the last chapter, I was captivated by the story she wove about Enya Calloway and Sebastian Sylver. Set in a small town, I was intrigued when I read the blurb for Sterling Heat. When Sebastian delivers Enya’s baby in his bakery, I just knew we were in for an entertaining story.
This is a beautifully written, witty, and emotional at times story that ticked every box for me. Sebastian and Enya have a connection no ne can break and it was obvious that they were meat to be together, if only Enya can convince him that he is what she and her daughter need.
This was an emotional journey that got to me on numerous levels.
September 15, 2023
An accountant enters the bakery and loses her shoe. Thus begins this fairy tale romance with plenty of frustrating angst and a sweet tooth for lemon bundt cakes, baked by lickable as lemon frosting curmudgeon baker - Sebastian Sylver.
Handsome and awesomely delicious, he seriously can bake my cake any time!!.
Smattering of silver on his temples and giant beating heart that is full of saving grace, Dunbar creates the men I want to marry!!
The accountant in question is a soon to be single mom- Enya Colloway, soon Adara joins her and Sebastian heart and arms spread some more to envelope them.
But he's scared.
"Love isn’t shameful.
Love is beautiful and kind.
Love is just . . . love. Unconditional.
Your past. Your present. Your future.”
Enya is there, but seb isn't yet.
He feels hopelessly inadequate and impractical for her, even though his heart just follows in her footsteps.
She's confused by his mixed signals till she needs to step away for her own sanity.
It's. Alot of tug of war of bodies and hearts that goes on with heartache and tears.
"We are so wrong for each other.
She wants a family. I don’t.
She’s perfect. I’m broken."
It takes him a lot of pitfalls, guilt trips and an unfortunate incident to get there in the end.
Dunbar as usual, keeps the readers on their toes and hearts palpitating. I've been enamoured by her words ever since I picked up her first book and binge read all
4.5 stars for personal knight in shining armor
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
Handsome and awesomely delicious, he seriously can bake my cake any time!!.
Smattering of silver on his temples and giant beating heart that is full of saving grace, Dunbar creates the men I want to marry!!
The accountant in question is a soon to be single mom- Enya Colloway, soon Adara joins her and Sebastian heart and arms spread some more to envelope them.
But he's scared.
"Love isn’t shameful.
Love is beautiful and kind.
Love is just . . . love. Unconditional.
Your past. Your present. Your future.”
Enya is there, but seb isn't yet.
He feels hopelessly inadequate and impractical for her, even though his heart just follows in her footsteps.
She's confused by his mixed signals till she needs to step away for her own sanity.
It's. Alot of tug of war of bodies and hearts that goes on with heartache and tears.
"We are so wrong for each other.
She wants a family. I don’t.
She’s perfect. I’m broken."
It takes him a lot of pitfalls, guilt trips and an unfortunate incident to get there in the end.
Dunbar as usual, keeps the readers on their toes and hearts palpitating. I've been enamoured by her words ever since I picked up her first book and binge read all
4.5 stars for personal knight in shining armor
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
September 26, 2023
i got a wee bit left but i had to write a review. i did get this through a Goodreads giveaway. it is not realistic ...in that ...well read it ...but sometimes yes an author writes a book ..now that is what it is ...an author's creation and they have every right to do whatever the heck they want ...no complaints there ... but i can imagine that throughout our lives we have wants ... desire that we have always wanted to bring through or make them happen ...so like "kids" so this lady makes it happen ... i mean why not??! i am not saying that it is something that happens to all men or ladies ...what i mean is there are hell of men that get to play throughout their adult lives ...that most (not all) are adults ...but mostly speaking LADIES are the ones in the relationships that are strong ...and have a plan for their lives. the men are the ones who keep on playing ...the grow up physically but they are still just having men adult toys. i wish ladies could keep young ... (a high 4 star rating for me) i wish if anything i could teach ladies to be easier on other ladies ...we are all in different stages in our lives that doesn't mean that what we each are living through, going through needs to be similar or even just alike ...it is not gonna happen ...so why the heck are we looking at others and having judgment?! i am not like this ...why or how?? because the minute i have it ..i stop myself ... she is awesome because ... if i could ask you ... please do that as well. stop yourself always when you begin to say anything unless it is to lift her up, give her encouragement or cheer her on. u see what i mean??! get a clue folks ... come on ... be the one who cheers her on. root for her. you can do it. i enjoy the MEN of L.B.'s writing ... she has a tendency to do men of a certain age ... i RESPECT that ... being that i am 45 myself ... turned that age on May 23rd of this year 2023. so i love that there are authors who realize that folks don't die when they become 45. life doesn't die then. duh! good read. fun character. i wanna know more of these male brothers ...will there be parts (or books) of other siblings (i tell ya i use t think that i knew the English language ...even at 45 i am still learning. i thought this was an es kind of situation. nope. it is just a "s". i am learning. are you???!) or parts of this family?
September 22, 2023
I never hesitate to read a book by L. B. Dunbar. Her characters aged about 40+ are so relatable to me. They can still experience amazing love, but normally without the immaturity that happens with younger adults. Sebastian and Enya had a meet-cute that knocked him back a step or two, shocking him with his reaction to her, and Enya had similar feelings. But, not believing in himself enough, Sebastian lets her slip from his life.
When fate, destiny, or luck, brings them back together, the pull is strong, the circumstances require urgent action, and Sebastian finds himself, falling in love while denying it most of the time.
I found Sterling Heat to be a bit of a slow-burn with frustrating indecision from both characters. Their lack of clear communication and assumptions about each other kept getting in the way. These are the qualities that made each character likable and endearing. Sebastian's past keeps haunting him. Enya has no idea who or what is haunting her. And together, they help each other heal and become a force to be reckoned with.
I really enjoyed their story, and I look forward to more stories featuring the small town of Sterling Falls and Sebastian's siblings.
October 9, 2023
"Sterling Heat" by L.B. Dunbar is a heartwarming tale of love that arrives when you least expect it. Enya and Sebastian, both in their mid-late thirties, are living their lives without actively seeking love, but fate has different plans for them.
Their story begins with an endearing meet-cute when Enya stumbles into Sebastian's bakery on a rainy day. Their instant connection is palpable, leading to a memorable kiss that neither can forget. Life takes an unexpected turn when, months later, Sebastian helps deliver Enya's baby, Amara. From that moment, their lives become beautifully intertwined.
Sebastian, who has a tumultuous past filled with regret and mistakes, is hesitant about embracing happiness. However, he can't resist the magnetic pull he feels towards Enya and Amara. His journey from self-doubt to realizing that he can't live without them is both touching and inspiring.
The story is not just about love but also the importance of family. Sebastian's brothers and sister bring humor and depth to the narrative, especially Knox, who adds a dose of hilarity to the story.
Enya's character shines with bravery, boldness, and determination. Her return to Sebastian's life despite her initial embarrassment showcases her fearless nature. The connection between Enya and Sebastian is magnetic, and as their bond deepens, it becomes clear that age is no barrier to finding true love and pursuing one's desires.
L.B. Dunbar masterfully balances love, spice, and suspense, creating an emotionally charged narrative with profound character growth. The unexpected twist adds a layer of intrigue that keeps you engrossed until the end.
"Sterling Heat" is not just a romance; it's a journey of forgiveness, embracing the unknown, and letting go of the past. Enya and Sebastian's love story is unforgettable, and it leaves you eager to explore more of the Sterling Falls series. Don't miss this captivating tale of unexpected love and redemption.
Their story begins with an endearing meet-cute when Enya stumbles into Sebastian's bakery on a rainy day. Their instant connection is palpable, leading to a memorable kiss that neither can forget. Life takes an unexpected turn when, months later, Sebastian helps deliver Enya's baby, Amara. From that moment, their lives become beautifully intertwined.
Sebastian, who has a tumultuous past filled with regret and mistakes, is hesitant about embracing happiness. However, he can't resist the magnetic pull he feels towards Enya and Amara. His journey from self-doubt to realizing that he can't live without them is both touching and inspiring.
The story is not just about love but also the importance of family. Sebastian's brothers and sister bring humor and depth to the narrative, especially Knox, who adds a dose of hilarity to the story.
Enya's character shines with bravery, boldness, and determination. Her return to Sebastian's life despite her initial embarrassment showcases her fearless nature. The connection between Enya and Sebastian is magnetic, and as their bond deepens, it becomes clear that age is no barrier to finding true love and pursuing one's desires.
L.B. Dunbar masterfully balances love, spice, and suspense, creating an emotionally charged narrative with profound character growth. The unexpected twist adds a layer of intrigue that keeps you engrossed until the end.
"Sterling Heat" is not just a romance; it's a journey of forgiveness, embracing the unknown, and letting go of the past. Enya and Sebastian's love story is unforgettable, and it leaves you eager to explore more of the Sterling Falls series. Don't miss this captivating tale of unexpected love and redemption.
September 25, 2023
3.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
Grumpy MMC with a troubled past ✔️
Family full of hot brothers ✔️
A man who makes lemon baby Bundt cakes ✔️
I am someone who has a fascination and love for Bundt cakes as well as grumpy men so I was hooked before I even got my copy of the book! The ways that Sebastian and Enya initially met and got reintroduced were such funny moments (well that second one was slightly traumatizing for Seb!) to get to meet them and see how their relationship starts.
I am such a sucker for small town romances because I love the picture you get of the town and characters that are all so interwoven and some times so into each others business! The dynamic between the Sylver siblings was so much fun ( and I hope we get a book for each of them!)
Although I’m not interested in having kids so it doesn’t get quite the same reaction from me as others, I love when a man gets all soft a squishy around a baby! And Seb sure melted around Adara and I loved how he stepped up into a role to support Enya (especially being the one that caught the baby in his bakery!)
Squishy with a baby, but ultra protective with a woman just does something to my woman parts! And Sebs growly,grumbly self when it came to Enya was goals for sure!
I did feel like at times the story was a bit repetitive (at parts it restated something I didn’t feel need to be restated and this happened a few times) I also struggled a little with the slow burn and indecision of the characters. I just felt like at times there was so much ping ponging back and forth with the direction they were going and it was frustrating.
I enjoyed that this was focused on older characters and hope we get to see the rest of the Sylver siblings find love!
Thank you to WordSmith Publicity and the author for a review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts!
2/5 🌶️
Grumpy MMC with a troubled past ✔️
Family full of hot brothers ✔️
A man who makes lemon baby Bundt cakes ✔️
I am someone who has a fascination and love for Bundt cakes as well as grumpy men so I was hooked before I even got my copy of the book! The ways that Sebastian and Enya initially met and got reintroduced were such funny moments (well that second one was slightly traumatizing for Seb!) to get to meet them and see how their relationship starts.
I am such a sucker for small town romances because I love the picture you get of the town and characters that are all so interwoven and some times so into each others business! The dynamic between the Sylver siblings was so much fun ( and I hope we get a book for each of them!)
Although I’m not interested in having kids so it doesn’t get quite the same reaction from me as others, I love when a man gets all soft a squishy around a baby! And Seb sure melted around Adara and I loved how he stepped up into a role to support Enya (especially being the one that caught the baby in his bakery!)
Squishy with a baby, but ultra protective with a woman just does something to my woman parts! And Sebs growly,grumbly self when it came to Enya was goals for sure!
I did feel like at times the story was a bit repetitive (at parts it restated something I didn’t feel need to be restated and this happened a few times) I also struggled a little with the slow burn and indecision of the characters. I just felt like at times there was so much ping ponging back and forth with the direction they were going and it was frustrating.
I enjoyed that this was focused on older characters and hope we get to see the rest of the Sylver siblings find love!
Thank you to WordSmith Publicity and the author for a review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts!
September 7, 2023
"Love isn't shameful. Love is beautiful and kind. Love is just . . . love. Unconditional. Your past. Your present. Your future.
-Enya
This is the first book in a new series. I can't wait to get the other Sylver brother's and sister books...possibly even a book for Cadence. These books are going to be an amazing journey. I just know it!
I fell in love with this small town, slow burn romance with a twist. Sebastian and Enya are perfect for each other.
-Sebastian believes he doesn't deserve anything good because of his past. He's the local baker that is trying to keep his nose clean. That is until Enya falls at his bakery doorstep.
-Enya is starting a new life for herself and her baby. When she gives birth in the bakery and Sebastian steps in to save the day, Enya falls hard. She's the most loving and understanding person.
When you put the two of them together the romance is on full force. You will also fall in love with baby, Adara.
At the end, we get the most perfect HEA. Much deserved peace and happiness for the both of them. I'm still shocked on how its a small world.
I highly recommend this book. Anything by Ms. Dunbar is simply amazing. Her writing is simply amazing. I also like the fact that her books are always sexy silvers and older more mature heroines.
Characters = 5/5
Plot = 4/5
Romance = 4.5/5
Hotness = 4/5
Mystery = 4/5
Action = 3/5
Drama = 5/5
Darkness = 0.5/5
Humor = 0/5
Stars = 4½ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Cliffhanger = No
Would I recommend this book? = Yes
Would I read future books by this author? = Yes
LOVE the book cover!
-Enya
This is the first book in a new series. I can't wait to get the other Sylver brother's and sister books...possibly even a book for Cadence. These books are going to be an amazing journey. I just know it!
I fell in love with this small town, slow burn romance with a twist. Sebastian and Enya are perfect for each other.
-Sebastian believes he doesn't deserve anything good because of his past. He's the local baker that is trying to keep his nose clean. That is until Enya falls at his bakery doorstep.
-Enya is starting a new life for herself and her baby. When she gives birth in the bakery and Sebastian steps in to save the day, Enya falls hard. She's the most loving and understanding person.
When you put the two of them together the romance is on full force. You will also fall in love with baby, Adara.
At the end, we get the most perfect HEA. Much deserved peace and happiness for the both of them. I'm still shocked on how its a small world.
I highly recommend this book. Anything by Ms. Dunbar is simply amazing. Her writing is simply amazing. I also like the fact that her books are always sexy silvers and older more mature heroines.
Characters = 5/5
Plot = 4/5
Romance = 4.5/5
Hotness = 4/5
Mystery = 4/5
Action = 3/5
Drama = 5/5
Darkness = 0.5/5
Humor = 0/5
Stars = 4½ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Cliffhanger = No
Would I recommend this book? = Yes
Would I read future books by this author? = Yes
LOVE the book cover!
September 7, 2023
Love, Lemon Bundt Cake, and a Sweet Cookie
What a start to a new series! The first two chapters of Sterling Heat was in an anthology to support Ukraine called There Is No Hole in Kindness, it left you wanting more.
This is a story of redemption, trust, family, feeling not good enough and love, what a journey this is! I think Sebastian is my all-time favourite, a bad boy baker with such a big heart. Enya buys a lemon Bundt cake at his bakery, she falls when leaving the bakery, Sebastian rescues her. She is an Angel falling from heaven who changes his life forever. Over lemon Bundt cake, first-person Enya shares that she is pregnant is with the Curmudgeon Baker, there is a flicker of a flame between them, and the what if’s that only grows stronger, months later when little Cookie is born in the bakery Sebastian pretends to be her father but is he pretending.
L.B. is a leader in the Silver Fox, Love Over 40 genres, for most of her readers the V card ship sailed long ago, there are no billionaires falling into our worlds, but this talented writer reminds us that love can come at any age, a connection, a flicker can become a blaze, family is who you love and protect. Her stories pull you in and are so hard to put down.
I hope that the Sheriff, Stone Sylver gets his story, as his brother Sabastian had an angel fall into his world, the sheriff needs a fairy to sprinkle magic in his life.
This is simply a story to savour, finding love, meeting the Sylver family, Sebastian and Enya are perfect for each other. If I could give this story 10 stars I would, looking forward to the next story in the Sterling Falls Series.
What a start to a new series! The first two chapters of Sterling Heat was in an anthology to support Ukraine called There Is No Hole in Kindness, it left you wanting more.
This is a story of redemption, trust, family, feeling not good enough and love, what a journey this is! I think Sebastian is my all-time favourite, a bad boy baker with such a big heart. Enya buys a lemon Bundt cake at his bakery, she falls when leaving the bakery, Sebastian rescues her. She is an Angel falling from heaven who changes his life forever. Over lemon Bundt cake, first-person Enya shares that she is pregnant is with the Curmudgeon Baker, there is a flicker of a flame between them, and the what if’s that only grows stronger, months later when little Cookie is born in the bakery Sebastian pretends to be her father but is he pretending.
L.B. is a leader in the Silver Fox, Love Over 40 genres, for most of her readers the V card ship sailed long ago, there are no billionaires falling into our worlds, but this talented writer reminds us that love can come at any age, a connection, a flicker can become a blaze, family is who you love and protect. Her stories pull you in and are so hard to put down.
I hope that the Sheriff, Stone Sylver gets his story, as his brother Sabastian had an angel fall into his world, the sheriff needs a fairy to sprinkle magic in his life.
This is simply a story to savour, finding love, meeting the Sylver family, Sebastian and Enya are perfect for each other. If I could give this story 10 stars I would, looking forward to the next story in the Sterling Falls Series.
September 16, 2023
Sterling Heat (Sterling Falls Book 1) by L. B. Dunbar is a romantic suspense novel that will grab you from page one and hold on to you until the end of the story. A set of unlikely circumstances brings a grumpy baker, Sebastian, with a sordid past, and Enya, a pregnant accountant from the city, into each other’s lives. After months of not seeing each other, Enya craves a baby lemon bunt cake and returns to the bakery, where Seb delivers her premature baby, which bonds the three together in a way neither could have predicted. Seb sees himself as not deserving of love due to his past addictions and being an ex-convict. Enya fears falling short as a single mom who is alone and without support. When Seb steps up to play daddy to baby Adara in the NICU while Enya waits for her blood pressure to regulate so she can see her baby changes how each perceives the other. Seb even opens his home to Enya since the city condo is up for sale, and she plans to move to a remolded old farmhouse in Sterling Falls. Regrettably, her remodeled house isn’t move-in ready. How L B Dunbar interweaves the story so that Seb and Enya have connections, one they are unaware of concerning the home she plans to live in and newly unexpected circumstances surrounding each other that could destroy them both. I love how the romance and suspense intertwine to form an incredible story full of fully developed characters that the reader wants new books about them all. Another book where L. B. Dunbar outdoes herself.
March 9, 2024
“Love wasn’t the daily special when a grumpy small-town baker delivers a baby in his bakery. Now, all he can think about is that sweet bundle and her tempting single mother.
Having a baby in a bakery gives new meaning to taking the bun out of the oven.
I’d been in Curmudgeon Bakery for one of those lemon baby-Bundt cakes I’d been craving since I found out I was pregnant.
The draw had nothing to do with the baker himself. Tall, tatted, and edgy, looking more like a biker than a man who makes baked goods. I hardly knew him other than taking a tumble in a rainstorm in front of his shop . . . and then tossing myself at him after he rescued me.
We shared a moment but it’s not what you’d think.
Months later, he delivered my baby among his cookies and cakes. Talk about a second chance encounter.
Then he whips up a plan to pretend to be my baby’s father, and everything heats up from there.
My body.
My heart.
My willingness to accept a perfect stranger’s kindness despite him telling me over and over he isn’t who I think he is.
I beg to differ.
He’s that sugary drizzle on a citrus-flavored, guilty pleasure that’s bad for the hips, but together—him, and me, and baby—we’re the perfect blend of ingredients that might do all our hearts some good.“
When I discovered STERLING HEAT by LB Dunbar on Audible, I couldn’t resist giving it a listen.
And let me tell you… That rating of 4.5 is spot on! ❤️
I love books that aren’t very predictable, especially romance. This book definitely had me guessing!
Having a baby in a bakery gives new meaning to taking the bun out of the oven.
I’d been in Curmudgeon Bakery for one of those lemon baby-Bundt cakes I’d been craving since I found out I was pregnant.
The draw had nothing to do with the baker himself. Tall, tatted, and edgy, looking more like a biker than a man who makes baked goods. I hardly knew him other than taking a tumble in a rainstorm in front of his shop . . . and then tossing myself at him after he rescued me.
We shared a moment but it’s not what you’d think.
Months later, he delivered my baby among his cookies and cakes. Talk about a second chance encounter.
Then he whips up a plan to pretend to be my baby’s father, and everything heats up from there.
My body.
My heart.
My willingness to accept a perfect stranger’s kindness despite him telling me over and over he isn’t who I think he is.
I beg to differ.
He’s that sugary drizzle on a citrus-flavored, guilty pleasure that’s bad for the hips, but together—him, and me, and baby—we’re the perfect blend of ingredients that might do all our hearts some good.“
When I discovered STERLING HEAT by LB Dunbar on Audible, I couldn’t resist giving it a listen.
And let me tell you… That rating of 4.5 is spot on! ❤️
I love books that aren’t very predictable, especially romance. This book definitely had me guessing!
September 5, 2023
Ms. Dunbar did it again!
I’m sitting here, trying to figure out how to put into words what I felt while reading this delicious story ... and come to the conclusion that I can’t, because I’m at a loss for the right words!
Those characters ... those intense feelings ... in my humble opinion, there’s no way not to love this story.
Sebastian and Enya’s insta-attraction, their out-of-this-world chemistry and struggle to resist each other is just so beautifully written that I felt torn to pieces and put back together time and again. Add to that all of their character traits, some ghosts of the past, and a sprinkling of suspense, and it becomes really hard to put this book down.
I devoured this book, every last morsel of this story, turning the pages as fast as I could read while wishing this story would never end.
I fell in love with each and every character and wished I could meet them in real life, starting with adorable baby Adara, to resilient, passionate, sweet and loving momma bear Enya, to swoon-worthy, lickable bad boy Sebastian. They are my newest addiction, though I can't wait to read more about Sebastian's siblings.
I can't imagine how Ms. Dunbar can top this unputdownable, incredible story, but I'm sure she'll still find a way to create another page-turner par excellence ... just as heartwarming and emotional, just as exciting, suspenseful and captivating.
I loved every second I spent with this book.
I’m sitting here, trying to figure out how to put into words what I felt while reading this delicious story ... and come to the conclusion that I can’t, because I’m at a loss for the right words!
Those characters ... those intense feelings ... in my humble opinion, there’s no way not to love this story.
Sebastian and Enya’s insta-attraction, their out-of-this-world chemistry and struggle to resist each other is just so beautifully written that I felt torn to pieces and put back together time and again. Add to that all of their character traits, some ghosts of the past, and a sprinkling of suspense, and it becomes really hard to put this book down.
I devoured this book, every last morsel of this story, turning the pages as fast as I could read while wishing this story would never end.
I fell in love with each and every character and wished I could meet them in real life, starting with adorable baby Adara, to resilient, passionate, sweet and loving momma bear Enya, to swoon-worthy, lickable bad boy Sebastian. They are my newest addiction, though I can't wait to read more about Sebastian's siblings.
I can't imagine how Ms. Dunbar can top this unputdownable, incredible story, but I'm sure she'll still find a way to create another page-turner par excellence ... just as heartwarming and emotional, just as exciting, suspenseful and captivating.
I loved every second I spent with this book.
September 5, 2023
5 Stars for this slow burn romance!
"She's the light in a life that's been too dark." ... I love this line!
Sebastian and Enya are two broken souls that fit together perfectly. I love that Enya is so brave ... deciding to keep the baby and be a single mother and move to a new town to start over. Sebastian is this grumpy over protective man with a heart of gold that he hides. It broke my heart that he didn't think he deserved a happy life because of this past choices. This book made me laugh. cry and everything in between. The heat between Sebastian and Enya not only melted my heart. but also my kindle ... lol A fantastic start to a new series and I can't wait for all the Sylver sibling's stories.
At thirty-two Sebastian started his life all over again. Three years later he's running his own bakery in his hometown of Sterling Falls. During a rainstorm one afternoon, Enya falls on his doorstep ... literally. In the short time their paths cross, Sebastian learns many things about this stranger. He feels this pull towards her but he knows that he could never make anyone happy ... he's a dangerous man. All Enya wants is a baby lemon bunt cake, but when the see the baker that helps her up after her fall ... maybe she wants something else as well. Months later Enya goes back to bakery and that will moment in time will change her life forever.
I received an early copy courtesy of Wordsmith Publicity.
"She's the light in a life that's been too dark." ... I love this line!
Sebastian and Enya are two broken souls that fit together perfectly. I love that Enya is so brave ... deciding to keep the baby and be a single mother and move to a new town to start over. Sebastian is this grumpy over protective man with a heart of gold that he hides. It broke my heart that he didn't think he deserved a happy life because of this past choices. This book made me laugh. cry and everything in between. The heat between Sebastian and Enya not only melted my heart. but also my kindle ... lol A fantastic start to a new series and I can't wait for all the Sylver sibling's stories.
At thirty-two Sebastian started his life all over again. Three years later he's running his own bakery in his hometown of Sterling Falls. During a rainstorm one afternoon, Enya falls on his doorstep ... literally. In the short time their paths cross, Sebastian learns many things about this stranger. He feels this pull towards her but he knows that he could never make anyone happy ... he's a dangerous man. All Enya wants is a baby lemon bunt cake, but when the see the baker that helps her up after her fall ... maybe she wants something else as well. Months later Enya goes back to bakery and that will moment in time will change her life forever.
I received an early copy courtesy of Wordsmith Publicity.
September 10, 2023
A new book by L.B. Dunbar is like a sunny day, your favorite ice cream and the melody of your favorite song. Enya and Sebastian’s story is joyful, magical and full of heart wrenching moments. Enya is an independent young woman who is expecting her first child who she will love unconditionally for the rest of her life. She will be facing motherhood alone, as she is estranged from her parents who disapprove of her decision. Enya isn’t afraid of the unknown and she has warmly embraced this special time in her life. She wasn’t prepared to meet Sebastian, a broody baker, whose lemon mini bundt cakes are pure heaven with each bite that she takes. Their chance meeting at his bakery turned out to be the perfect recipe for a happily ever after!
To me, Sebastian is an easy man to fall in love with, and Enya felt the same way. His kindness when it came to Enya and her baby was touching and came from the depths of his soul. He may think that fatherhood was not in the cards for him, but everyone around him felt otherwise. I fell in love with the tender way he held Adara, the kisses he brushed over her forehead and the gentle way he cared for her in the middle of the night. To him, Enya and Adara had saved him from a life of loneliness and gave him hope that he deserved their love, laughter and togetherness. It was Enya’s job to listen to Sebastian, hold his hand when he was troubled and be there to help him keep the nightmares at bay. All of Ms. Dunbar’s books have a special place on my bookshelf but I think Enya and Sebastian’s story will forever remain on my nightstand, where I can turn to it whenever I want to relive their unforgettable romance!!
To me, Sebastian is an easy man to fall in love with, and Enya felt the same way. His kindness when it came to Enya and her baby was touching and came from the depths of his soul. He may think that fatherhood was not in the cards for him, but everyone around him felt otherwise. I fell in love with the tender way he held Adara, the kisses he brushed over her forehead and the gentle way he cared for her in the middle of the night. To him, Enya and Adara had saved him from a life of loneliness and gave him hope that he deserved their love, laughter and togetherness. It was Enya’s job to listen to Sebastian, hold his hand when he was troubled and be there to help him keep the nightmares at bay. All of Ms. Dunbar’s books have a special place on my bookshelf but I think Enya and Sebastian’s story will forever remain on my nightstand, where I can turn to it whenever I want to relive their unforgettable romance!!
September 21, 2023
great start to the series
“Two flames. One candle. A family.”
This is a new author to me and this will be a series that I will be continuing because I really enjoyed this read and now I’m in invested in some of the other brothers 😏
��� I’d hurt anyone who hurt her. Which was an unsettling thought about a stranger.”
Enya and Sebastian had a very emotional first meet since Enya was reeling from the news that she was pregnant at 38 years old. The attraction is instant but after a couple stolen kisses, Sebastian puts a stop to it knowing that he isn’t the man for her.
“She’s a coveted cookie in the jar before dinner. She’ll spoil me, and I wouldn’t be satisfied with only one nibble.”
The next time they see each other, they are back in his bakery and as luck would have it she goes into labour and he has to move fast and help deliver her baby.
Sebastian has a lot of demons from his past and his journey is difficult but I loved watching it all unfold. The three of them have such tender moments that I found myself getting emotional especially when Sebastian would care for their “cookie”.
I loved the importance of family in this read and how Sebastian and his family care for one another. He may feel like the odd man out at times, but his love runs so deep. I can’t stress how special this story was and if you like the above tropes.. grab this read on release day.
“Two flames. One candle. A family.”
This is a new author to me and this will be a series that I will be continuing because I really enjoyed this read and now I’m in invested in some of the other brothers 😏
��� I’d hurt anyone who hurt her. Which was an unsettling thought about a stranger.”
Enya and Sebastian had a very emotional first meet since Enya was reeling from the news that she was pregnant at 38 years old. The attraction is instant but after a couple stolen kisses, Sebastian puts a stop to it knowing that he isn’t the man for her.
“She’s a coveted cookie in the jar before dinner. She’ll spoil me, and I wouldn’t be satisfied with only one nibble.”
The next time they see each other, they are back in his bakery and as luck would have it she goes into labour and he has to move fast and help deliver her baby.
Sebastian has a lot of demons from his past and his journey is difficult but I loved watching it all unfold. The three of them have such tender moments that I found myself getting emotional especially when Sebastian would care for their “cookie”.
I loved the importance of family in this read and how Sebastian and his family care for one another. He may feel like the odd man out at times, but his love runs so deep. I can’t stress how special this story was and if you like the above tropes.. grab this read on release day.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews