I shared a really fun guest post and interview with the author here. Below, you'll find my review...
The Solid Grounds Coffee CompanyBy Carla Laureano
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 432 Pages
February 4th 2020 by Tyndale House Publishers
Summary
Analyn Sanchez can handle the long hours and arrogant clients that come with her job as a crisis management associate at Denver’s largest publicity firm. The high-powered job, expensive condo, and designer wardrobe are all part of her plan to prove to her family that her life choices haven’t been in vain. But when she’s asked to cover up a client’s misdeeds with serious moral and legal ramifications, she can no longer sacrifice her conscience for her career . . . and the cost is no less than her job.
Ever since a devastating climbing accident in South America eight months ago, and a bad decision that dried up his sponsorships, professional rock climber Bryan Shaw has found himself at similar loose ends. When the opportunity to buy a coffee farm in Colombia arises, he jumps on it—only to discover his wandering ways have left him utterly unprepared to run a business.
When Bryan returns home and offers Ana a role in his company as a solution to both their problems, she’s desperate enough to consider working with the far-too-flippant and far-too-handsome climber, even though he’s the polar opposite of her type A nature. As they delve deeper into the business, however, she begins to suspect there’s much more to Bryan than she’s given him credit for . . . and that sometimes the best plans are the ones you never see coming.
My Review
THE SOLID GROUNDS COFFEE COMPANY is a story of perceptions, inner demons, forgiveness, and letting go for something better (like love). It's a story full of friendship and romance, with great characters. If you're a fan of Christian romance, then definitely add this one to your list.
This story has a bit of the hate-to-love trope, or maybe more of opposites attract. These characters have been on each other's radars for some time, but Bryan was a bit of a player and Ana didn't want a relationship, and they acted like they didn't even really like each other. The timing was wrong. Then Bryan has his faith moment and completely turns his life around, but Ana isn't sure if his change can be trusted. The story is a line of coincidences that really aren't coincidences (since somebody else is in charge) that put Bryan and Ana together as Bryan opens his coffee company. Their attraction grows and they find that there is much more to themselves and each other than they knew.
I loved getting to see the prior characters from the first two books since these three girls are all best friends. I also loved seeing Bryan who is this totally laid-back, but really smart, guy totally challenge perfect-looking Ana who acts like she has it all together. They were so good for each other! Ana had a lot to let go of though in order to let Bryan in and Bryan had to find his own confidence, and they both had to trust in their faith to make things work. It was this mix of heartbreaking, inspiring, and romantic.
In the end, was it what I wished for? This story was about so much more than just romance. It was about accepting God, but also forgiving yourself. It was about being honest and willing to be open to change. Of course, the romance was swoon-worthy and definitely a favorite part of this story. I loved these characters and am sorry to see the series end, but am looking forward to this author's next release
Content: A closed-door love scene and references to past behavior, but nothing detailed.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Other Books in the Series
(Linked to Amazon or my review.)
About the Author
Have you read this one yet? Will you be?
No comments
Post a Comment
I love comments! I try to read and reply to them all. Feel free to agree or disagree and generally share your thoughts with me.