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Seasons of Love #1
Autumn Getaway
Newly divorced mom Lydia is just getting back on her feet. Her college roommate’s wedding promises a much-needed getaway weekend with old friends, at a beautiful manor in Connecticut. When she meets Sam, a handsome friend of the groom, she's nearly overwhelmed by a confusing mix of hope and trepidation. Their instant connection feels intensely real, to both of them, but the ink is barely dry on her divorce decree. It takes all her nerve, and more than a little prodding from her girlfriends, to convince Lydia to give her heart—and Sam—a chance. But when the magical weekend comes to a close, Sam must return to Chicago, while Lydia heads back to her complicated life and young son in New York. Can their newfound connection survive the trials of physical distance and years of emotional baggage?
299 pages, Paperback
First published March 27, 2014
About the author
Jennifer Gracen
19 books251 followersJennifer Gracen hails from Long Island, New York, where she lives with her two young sons. She loves to write contemporary romance for readers who seek better days, authentic characters, and satisfying endings. When she isn’t taking care of her kids, doing freelance copy editing/proofreading, reading, or talking to friends on Twitter and Facebook, Jennifer writes.
The Harrisons Series:
Book 1: More Than You Know
Book 2: Someone Like You
Book 3: 'Tis The Season
Book 3.5: Happily Ever After (novella)
Book 4: Between You And Me
Book 5: It Might Be You
The McKinnon Brothers Series:
Book 1: All I Want For Christmas
Book 2: The Doctor's Love
Book 3: Marrying His Best Friend
Book 4: Love In Dublin
Her short story A DOSE OF GELT was featured in a Chanukah anthology, BURNING BRIGHT: Four Chanukah Love Stories, published by Avon Impulse/HarperCollins in December 2015.
The Seasons Of Love Series:
Book 1: Autumn Getaway
Book 2: Winter Hopes
Book 3: Spring Shadows
Book 4: Summer Champagne
More to come...
The Harrisons Series:
Book 1: More Than You Know
Book 2: Someone Like You
Book 3: 'Tis The Season
Book 3.5: Happily Ever After (novella)
Book 4: Between You And Me
Book 5: It Might Be You
The McKinnon Brothers Series:
Book 1: All I Want For Christmas
Book 2: The Doctor's Love
Book 3: Marrying His Best Friend
Book 4: Love In Dublin
Her short story A DOSE OF GELT was featured in a Chanukah anthology, BURNING BRIGHT: Four Chanukah Love Stories, published by Avon Impulse/HarperCollins in December 2015.
The Seasons Of Love Series:
Book 1: Autumn Getaway
Book 2: Winter Hopes
Book 3: Spring Shadows
Book 4: Summer Champagne
More to come...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
February 7, 2015
Reading Autumn Getway is like being wrapped in your favorite blanket with a warm cup of coffee as you reminisce with your dearest friend. After reading so many intense novels I couldn't have been more receptive to Jennifer Gracens new novel about friendship and letting go of the past. Yes, it is very Nora Roberts esque and follows the predictable format of man meets women and both have baggage. What set this apart is the fantastic characters. I liked them, I rooted for them,and I am thrilled that there are 3 more books!
Perfect rainy day by the fire book. I recommend you give it a shot.
Perfect rainy day by the fire book. I recommend you give it a shot.
March 18, 2014
You know those books where you can’t help but silently cheer for the characters because you just fall in love with them so much? I was silently cheering on Lydia and swooning over Sam the whole time I read Autumn Getaway. It is one of those books that makes you feel better for having read it. I think all of my girlfriends who are recently divorced and just getting back into the dating game HAVE TO READ this book. It gives so much hope. As a mom with a preschool aged child, I could empathize with Lydia’s predicament. It is so hard to put yourself first when you have a small child. Gracen does a wonderful job creating the visuals for the manor and the grounds in this book. I was literally transported in my head to each place as she described it. Such a sweet and fun book. If you need a little hope in your life and a belief that second chances can happen for the romantic in us, read this book. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
April 28, 2014
I was fortunate enough to meet Jennifer Gracen--and a host of other lovely ladies--at a writers conference a few years back, so I feel like I've "known" Lydia and Sam for a while. Crossing paths with Jennifer admittedly forced me into the romance genre kicking and screaming. (Please forgive me, but mysteries are my thing.) That said, if you are a romance fan, this book is DEFINITELY for you. The thing that impressed me the most was that the entire story was like reading in color. The October setting and the characters were completely vivid, and Jen hit upon all five senses throughout the book, from the beautiful hotel, to the music, to the food, to the flowers in the garden, to the *ahem* alarmingly attractive leading male. There's some fun, some friendship, some drama, and some...well, you'll just have to find out for yourself. Congrats Jen, much success on this one and the rest of the series!
June 23, 2014
A feel good love story…
From the very first page I was captivated and pulled into the story - so much so that I felt like I was also at the inn for my friends wedding… Jennifer Gracen did a fabulous job of taking us along for the ride as Sam and Lydia met and fell in love… She perfectly portrayed these complex characters allowing the reader to really understand and feel their emotions. There was the perfect amount of tension and heat, and I loved all of the supporting characters. I found myself often smiling as I turned the pages and I have to admit I was disappointed when the story ended. I wanted more! Fortunately Gracen has more in store for us…I can't wait to read the next book in this wonderful series....
From the very first page I was captivated and pulled into the story - so much so that I felt like I was also at the inn for my friends wedding… Jennifer Gracen did a fabulous job of taking us along for the ride as Sam and Lydia met and fell in love… She perfectly portrayed these complex characters allowing the reader to really understand and feel their emotions. There was the perfect amount of tension and heat, and I loved all of the supporting characters. I found myself often smiling as I turned the pages and I have to admit I was disappointed when the story ended. I wanted more! Fortunately Gracen has more in store for us…I can't wait to read the next book in this wonderful series....
June 20, 2014
Review on Passion for Pages
Autumn Getaway is really a very sweet story about coping with loss, moving forward and finding love again.
I’ve always loved weddings. They’re just so full of love and promises of happily ever after—every girl’s dream, right? Just watching two people stand in front of their family and friends committing themselves to one another…well it’s a beautiful thing—made even better if the happy couple is gracious enough to host an open bar. Plus, scoping out the groomsmen and hot single men is definitely fun too.
I think anyone who has been through a divorce, or even a really horrible break up, because let’s face it, just because there might not have been an exchange of vows or rings doesn’t mean the relationship wasn’t any less real, can identify with Lydia’s character.
It’s scary to put yourself back out there after something has fallen apart—whether the breakup was your idea or not. Being able to put trust into another person again isn’t an easy thing to do, especially when you have other people to consider like Lydia did with her son.
The author just made this character so relatable, from her feelings of apprehension towards men, to the problems she had with her ex-husband, and even the issues she had with her son. I love that this was more of a “mature” audience book. And by that I mean it was about a character in her late 30’s who was starting over, not some 20-something. So many books that I’ve read are about the 20-somethings, it’s as if once we reach 30 and are single any potential of finding love and happiness has gone out the window—even in books!
The only thing that I had an issue with was the repetitiveness of Lydia’s divorce. Everyone that was close to Sam (the hero) had an issue with this and the same things were being said over and over again. And c’mon, it’s a freaking divorce, people! Half of marriages end in them. If everyone stopped dating divorced people, well there would soon be a lot of lonely beds out there. It just sort of irritated me how Sam’s family made it seem so much bigger than it actually was, like it was murder rather than the end of a marriage.
But that’s really the only problem I had. And I loved, absolutely loved, Lydia’s close group of friends. Especially Donna. She reminded me so much of my own friends with her opinions and no bullshit attitude and dirty comments. She was awesome. And drunk Kathryn? Adorable!
If you’re looking for a sweet read pick yourself up a copy of Autumn Getaway.
Autumn Getaway is really a very sweet story about coping with loss, moving forward and finding love again.
I’ve always loved weddings. They’re just so full of love and promises of happily ever after—every girl’s dream, right? Just watching two people stand in front of their family and friends committing themselves to one another…well it’s a beautiful thing—made even better if the happy couple is gracious enough to host an open bar. Plus, scoping out the groomsmen and hot single men is definitely fun too.
I think anyone who has been through a divorce, or even a really horrible break up, because let’s face it, just because there might not have been an exchange of vows or rings doesn’t mean the relationship wasn’t any less real, can identify with Lydia’s character.
It’s scary to put yourself back out there after something has fallen apart—whether the breakup was your idea or not. Being able to put trust into another person again isn’t an easy thing to do, especially when you have other people to consider like Lydia did with her son.
The author just made this character so relatable, from her feelings of apprehension towards men, to the problems she had with her ex-husband, and even the issues she had with her son. I love that this was more of a “mature” audience book. And by that I mean it was about a character in her late 30’s who was starting over, not some 20-something. So many books that I’ve read are about the 20-somethings, it’s as if once we reach 30 and are single any potential of finding love and happiness has gone out the window—even in books!
The only thing that I had an issue with was the repetitiveness of Lydia’s divorce. Everyone that was close to Sam (the hero) had an issue with this and the same things were being said over and over again. And c’mon, it’s a freaking divorce, people! Half of marriages end in them. If everyone stopped dating divorced people, well there would soon be a lot of lonely beds out there. It just sort of irritated me how Sam’s family made it seem so much bigger than it actually was, like it was murder rather than the end of a marriage.
But that’s really the only problem I had. And I loved, absolutely loved, Lydia’s close group of friends. Especially Donna. She reminded me so much of my own friends with her opinions and no bullshit attitude and dirty comments. She was awesome. And drunk Kathryn? Adorable!
If you’re looking for a sweet read pick yourself up a copy of Autumn Getaway.
June 16, 2014
Title: Autumn Getaway
Author: Jennifer Gracen
Publisher: Booktrope Publisher
Series: Seasons of Love, #1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Autumn Getaway" by Jennifer Gracen...
What is this novel about?
"Author Jennifer Gracen brings together a colorful cast of friends and family in Book One of the Seasons of Love series, AUTUMN GETAWAY. Newly divorced mom Lydia is just getting back on her feet. Her college roommate’s wedding promises a much-needed getaway weekend with old friends, at a beautiful manor in Connecticut. When she meets Sam, a handsome friend of the groom, she's nearly overwhelmed by a confusing mix of hope and trepidation. Their instant connection feels intensely real, to both of them, but the ink is barely dry on her divorce decree. It takes all her nerve, and more than a little prodding from her girlfriends, to convince Lydia to give her heart - and Sam - a chance. But when the magical weekend comes to a close, Sam must return to Chicago, while Lydia heads back to her complicated life and young son in New York. Can their newfound connection survive the trials of physical distance and years of emotional baggage?"
What I liked from this novel...
This was a very enjoyable read that took place among friends and family celebrating a wedding one weekend. I found this novel very detailed and very relatable heart warming story, however, I was a little disappointed that I would have to wait until the next sequel to find out what happens as Sam and Lydia try to find love. The author has given the reader a good read of romance through love and relationships. The characters for the most part were well developed, loveable and believable helping to give the reader a interesting sweet and sexy enjoyable read. Be ready for a read of fun, friendship and even some drama with some powerful storytelling that will keep your attention till the end.
Author: Jennifer Gracen
Publisher: Booktrope Publisher
Series: Seasons of Love, #1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Autumn Getaway" by Jennifer Gracen...
What is this novel about?
"Author Jennifer Gracen brings together a colorful cast of friends and family in Book One of the Seasons of Love series, AUTUMN GETAWAY. Newly divorced mom Lydia is just getting back on her feet. Her college roommate’s wedding promises a much-needed getaway weekend with old friends, at a beautiful manor in Connecticut. When she meets Sam, a handsome friend of the groom, she's nearly overwhelmed by a confusing mix of hope and trepidation. Their instant connection feels intensely real, to both of them, but the ink is barely dry on her divorce decree. It takes all her nerve, and more than a little prodding from her girlfriends, to convince Lydia to give her heart - and Sam - a chance. But when the magical weekend comes to a close, Sam must return to Chicago, while Lydia heads back to her complicated life and young son in New York. Can their newfound connection survive the trials of physical distance and years of emotional baggage?"
What I liked from this novel...
This was a very enjoyable read that took place among friends and family celebrating a wedding one weekend. I found this novel very detailed and very relatable heart warming story, however, I was a little disappointed that I would have to wait until the next sequel to find out what happens as Sam and Lydia try to find love. The author has given the reader a good read of romance through love and relationships. The characters for the most part were well developed, loveable and believable helping to give the reader a interesting sweet and sexy enjoyable read. Be ready for a read of fun, friendship and even some drama with some powerful storytelling that will keep your attention till the end.
June 17, 2014
What a delightful book! I admit finding out at the beginning of the story that Lydia is about to spend a long weekend getaway threw me off for a minute. I was instantly thinking, “Oh great, another insta love novel! Yay me!” (insert massive sarcasm here). What I read was a fabulously real and very cute book about two people that have some issues that they have to work through but they LIKE each other enough to try!
YES! I SAID LIKE!
Can you imagine? They didn’t feign insta love or start talking all lovey dovey (yet I mean this is a romance series) but the way this went was fabulous. I really enjoyed them getting to know each other even with the little time they actually had together. It seemed like a real weekend. Somehow Jennifer was able to blend real with the fantastical and it created a beautiful baby called Autumn Getaway!
Very easy to read. The plot was fabulous. There were times when I cringed, laughed out loud, got mad, the whole gamut, but through it all I just enjoyed myself. There are some wordy bits here and there but not enough to take away from the plot line, just added a little to the characters and both of their lives.
This was also written so the reader could see what was going on with both characters, how both feel, and how their family and friends feel. Man… Sam’s family though. I mean, really guys? I wanted to smack them! I understand being overprotective but Sam’s a big boy now… you can cut those strings, k? Thanks!
Overall, fabulously fun. I cannot wait to share this with my friends and family. They will love this!
Thank you to BookTrope for allowing me to read for an honest review!
4.5/5
YES! I SAID LIKE!
Can you imagine? They didn’t feign insta love or start talking all lovey dovey (yet I mean this is a romance series) but the way this went was fabulous. I really enjoyed them getting to know each other even with the little time they actually had together. It seemed like a real weekend. Somehow Jennifer was able to blend real with the fantastical and it created a beautiful baby called Autumn Getaway!
Very easy to read. The plot was fabulous. There were times when I cringed, laughed out loud, got mad, the whole gamut, but through it all I just enjoyed myself. There are some wordy bits here and there but not enough to take away from the plot line, just added a little to the characters and both of their lives.
This was also written so the reader could see what was going on with both characters, how both feel, and how their family and friends feel. Man… Sam’s family though. I mean, really guys? I wanted to smack them! I understand being overprotective but Sam’s a big boy now… you can cut those strings, k? Thanks!
Overall, fabulously fun. I cannot wait to share this with my friends and family. They will love this!
Thank you to BookTrope for allowing me to read for an honest review!
4.5/5
April 28, 2014
This is a wonderful, heart-warming story of loss, renewed strength and ultimate hope. Ms. Gracen writes with an honest, clear eye for the struggles and heartbreak that come with the end of a marriage, and the powerful need to protect and encourage one's child. Through characters that are both realistic and admirable, she shows that the only path to happiness and hope is the one that challenges us to grow.
The best romance stories deliver love, hope, and just the right dash of drama mixed with good, old-fashioned sexy passion. With characters that are relate-able, smart, and even a little bit funny, "Autumn Getaway" offers it all, from the destination wedding to the unexpected hookup to the quirky friends you wish were on your side.
I highly recommend this novel for a perfect weekend getaway-with-a-romance-novel. Best paired with a glass or two of chardonnay.
The best romance stories deliver love, hope, and just the right dash of drama mixed with good, old-fashioned sexy passion. With characters that are relate-able, smart, and even a little bit funny, "Autumn Getaway" offers it all, from the destination wedding to the unexpected hookup to the quirky friends you wish were on your side.
I highly recommend this novel for a perfect weekend getaway-with-a-romance-novel. Best paired with a glass or two of chardonnay.
July 29, 2016
Charming, authentic and enjoyable!
I knew this book was a keeper when I'd put it down between reading sessions and it remained on my mind--drawing me back to find out what was next. I think I read it in two sittings.
When I finished the story, I kept thinking about Sam and Lydia and wondering what was going on in their world--as if they were carrying on whilst I wasn't looking on and I was missing out. That's the hallmark of a great story with compelling characters, to me. I can't wait to see what happens with Sam and Lydia in the next book :)
I knew this book was a keeper when I'd put it down between reading sessions and it remained on my mind--drawing me back to find out what was next. I think I read it in two sittings.
When I finished the story, I kept thinking about Sam and Lydia and wondering what was going on in their world--as if they were carrying on whilst I wasn't looking on and I was missing out. That's the hallmark of a great story with compelling characters, to me. I can't wait to see what happens with Sam and Lydia in the next book :)
December 10, 2014
I am not going to lie, I love a good horror/thriller, but my first real addiction to reading was the romance novel. It probably had everything to do with being a unnoticed teenage girl (unnoticed by the boys) and wanting desperately to have that connection. Romance novels would take me into a fantasy world where I was the lovely lady being wooed. As I got older, I left the genre because I had found my Knight in Dingy Armor, (Honestly, girls, if his armor is shining....he's never been tested) and I thought it silly to continue on with the fictional romance when I had the real thing in my life.
Fast forward too many years to count, I still have my love, but, happily, I am coming back into the world of romance. It's fun to follow along as a couple finds each other and goes through the trials and tribulations of falling in love, which brings me to Autumn Getaway by Jennifer Gracen. This is book one in the Seasons of Love series and it did not disappoint. I almost immediately fell in love with the characters of Lydia and Sam. They were perfect for each other, but, of course, they had to figure that out for themselves. Well, to be honest, Sam knew long before Lydia.
Lydia is newly divorced, like days ago divorced, when she meets Sam at one of her best friend, Melanie's, wedding. He is immediately taken with her, but she is a bit slower to connect...or, at least, admit there is a connection. You see, Lydia is not only just recently divorced, but she also has a son, of whom she is very protective and she is very protective of herself.
Now, I'm not saying there isn't more to the story, but that's all that really needs said, because Autumn Getaway is a great romance. It is very sweet and romantic without being so sickeningly sweet that it makes you want to wretch. There are some steamy parts, but it is just a weekend, so you have to save something to the imagination, right? The other characters throughout the book are completely realistic and the scenarios that play out which cause strife are totally believable. In otherwords, the author wasn't reaching for scenarios that would push our potential lovers apart so that we can see them overcome, she used situations that absolutely fit the characters she created, making it feel real.
As I mentioned, Autumn Getaway is book one of four in the Season of Love series and I have read all three that are out. I have reviews to write for the next two books Winter Hopes and Spring Shadow, so no spoilers for those two. However, I will say this...go, buy, read and enjoy.
Fast forward too many years to count, I still have my love, but, happily, I am coming back into the world of romance. It's fun to follow along as a couple finds each other and goes through the trials and tribulations of falling in love, which brings me to Autumn Getaway by Jennifer Gracen. This is book one in the Seasons of Love series and it did not disappoint. I almost immediately fell in love with the characters of Lydia and Sam. They were perfect for each other, but, of course, they had to figure that out for themselves. Well, to be honest, Sam knew long before Lydia.
Lydia is newly divorced, like days ago divorced, when she meets Sam at one of her best friend, Melanie's, wedding. He is immediately taken with her, but she is a bit slower to connect...or, at least, admit there is a connection. You see, Lydia is not only just recently divorced, but she also has a son, of whom she is very protective and she is very protective of herself.
Now, I'm not saying there isn't more to the story, but that's all that really needs said, because Autumn Getaway is a great romance. It is very sweet and romantic without being so sickeningly sweet that it makes you want to wretch. There are some steamy parts, but it is just a weekend, so you have to save something to the imagination, right? The other characters throughout the book are completely realistic and the scenarios that play out which cause strife are totally believable. In otherwords, the author wasn't reaching for scenarios that would push our potential lovers apart so that we can see them overcome, she used situations that absolutely fit the characters she created, making it feel real.
As I mentioned, Autumn Getaway is book one of four in the Season of Love series and I have read all three that are out. I have reviews to write for the next two books Winter Hopes and Spring Shadow, so no spoilers for those two. However, I will say this...go, buy, read and enjoy.
August 19, 2014
***This review originally appeared on Author Alliance.***
Autumn Getaway is a rather sweet story about a newly divorced woman, Lydia, and a man she meets at her friend's wedding, Sam. Now, I'll share a few things about the plot, but I don't think it's a big spoiler to say that there's a romance that begins here. After all, it is in the genre of the book.
Lydia signs her divorce papers and almost immediately has to go out of town for her college roommate's wedding. It's the first time she's really let go or even relaxed since she initiated the divorce. Her ex-husband wasn't abusive, but he didn't fight for her. This is an important point in the book, so pay attention.
Lydia also has a son with a severe speech delay. She's not looking for anything other than some relaxation and time with her friends.
Sam is a friend of the groom. He lost his wife to cancer many years ago and hasn't had a serious relationship since. He's dated, but nothing that he would consider relationship material.
Sam and Lydia meet out in the garden of the hotel where they are both reading. Well, okay. They meet earlier, but this is their first real conversation. There's a spark there, and they both want to know more about each other. The book follows them both throughout the three days of the weekend wedding.
Overall, this is a sweet book. I had some frustrations with Lydia's personality at times, but I file that under a personal preference thing. Not every character works for every reader. That said, the story is well crafted and while the heat level in this book is pretty low (lower than most romance books), that doesn't mean it's not stimulating.
This is a solidly written and executed book with interesting and faceted characters and a satisfying ending.
Autumn Getaway is a rather sweet story about a newly divorced woman, Lydia, and a man she meets at her friend's wedding, Sam. Now, I'll share a few things about the plot, but I don't think it's a big spoiler to say that there's a romance that begins here. After all, it is in the genre of the book.
Lydia signs her divorce papers and almost immediately has to go out of town for her college roommate's wedding. It's the first time she's really let go or even relaxed since she initiated the divorce. Her ex-husband wasn't abusive, but he didn't fight for her. This is an important point in the book, so pay attention.
Lydia also has a son with a severe speech delay. She's not looking for anything other than some relaxation and time with her friends.
Sam is a friend of the groom. He lost his wife to cancer many years ago and hasn't had a serious relationship since. He's dated, but nothing that he would consider relationship material.
Sam and Lydia meet out in the garden of the hotel where they are both reading. Well, okay. They meet earlier, but this is their first real conversation. There's a spark there, and they both want to know more about each other. The book follows them both throughout the three days of the weekend wedding.
Overall, this is a sweet book. I had some frustrations with Lydia's personality at times, but I file that under a personal preference thing. Not every character works for every reader. That said, the story is well crafted and while the heat level in this book is pretty low (lower than most romance books), that doesn't mean it's not stimulating.
This is a solidly written and executed book with interesting and faceted characters and a satisfying ending.
August 31, 2014
Wow! What a breath of fresh air! This book is amazing! It's a perfect getaway for Lydia, the main character and us the reader!
From the moment u meet Lydia you feel for her and love that she's so realistic. She doesn't just seem fictional but a woman we could easily meet on the street.
As she is at the hotel for the wedding of her college room mate she meets a nice man who helps her... And little does she know this man will help her have a fabulous weekend.
Sam, the man who helps Lydia in the hotel is interested in this red/auburn head beauty. She's different, unique and captures his attn.
You will love his sweet and caring nature and wish this sweet man could be yours!
The two of them are in their 30's and makes it an amazing read for someone in this same age bracket.
You will fall for their banter, ability to talk about themselves, be honest, open and sincere with one another.
Autumn getaway is a sweet, sexy, musical book filled with family drama, meddling, fantastic friends, amazing characters and a wonderful story line that will capture your attn until the very end.
I was smiling, sad, and overcome with a vast amt of emotions in this book and loved how it ended!
I'm thrilled to read book 2 and see where the author takes these fabulous characters next.
4.5 stars from me.
* recv'd a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
From the moment u meet Lydia you feel for her and love that she's so realistic. She doesn't just seem fictional but a woman we could easily meet on the street.
As she is at the hotel for the wedding of her college room mate she meets a nice man who helps her... And little does she know this man will help her have a fabulous weekend.
Sam, the man who helps Lydia in the hotel is interested in this red/auburn head beauty. She's different, unique and captures his attn.
You will love his sweet and caring nature and wish this sweet man could be yours!
The two of them are in their 30's and makes it an amazing read for someone in this same age bracket.
You will fall for their banter, ability to talk about themselves, be honest, open and sincere with one another.
Autumn getaway is a sweet, sexy, musical book filled with family drama, meddling, fantastic friends, amazing characters and a wonderful story line that will capture your attn until the very end.
I was smiling, sad, and overcome with a vast amt of emotions in this book and loved how it ended!
I'm thrilled to read book 2 and see where the author takes these fabulous characters next.
4.5 stars from me.
* recv'd a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2014
Autumn Getaway by Jennifer Gracen
Received this book as an early reader via Library Thing. Subject matter interested me, to begin with.
Love that she can get away for not only the wedding of her friend but some downtime as she's finally divorced and her child is with his father for the 3 days. She's at a resort and enjoys a massage with her friend, walk and reading. This sounds like a dream to me as this is what we need after many months of stress, medical problems and life.
This story follows Lydia and her friend Melanie is the one getting married.
Also the book follows Sam Forrester, an artist, web designer and he loves to read. They do meet up several times during this weekend and get to know each other more personally.
Book is written as days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and each day is filled with what each of the two main characters do during the time. Some of the family wants him not to get together with her...
Found the book to be pretty predictable but still a good read. Easy to keep the characters straight.
Such detailed descriptions of not only the fall foliage but all the surroundings that you can picture yourself there, from the massage to the rooms and magnificent New England climate.
Other planned books in this series are highlighted at the end.
I received this book from Library Thing via the author in exchange for my honest review.
Received this book as an early reader via Library Thing. Subject matter interested me, to begin with.
Love that she can get away for not only the wedding of her friend but some downtime as she's finally divorced and her child is with his father for the 3 days. She's at a resort and enjoys a massage with her friend, walk and reading. This sounds like a dream to me as this is what we need after many months of stress, medical problems and life.
This story follows Lydia and her friend Melanie is the one getting married.
Also the book follows Sam Forrester, an artist, web designer and he loves to read. They do meet up several times during this weekend and get to know each other more personally.
Book is written as days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and each day is filled with what each of the two main characters do during the time. Some of the family wants him not to get together with her...
Found the book to be pretty predictable but still a good read. Easy to keep the characters straight.
Such detailed descriptions of not only the fall foliage but all the surroundings that you can picture yourself there, from the massage to the rooms and magnificent New England climate.
Other planned books in this series are highlighted at the end.
I received this book from Library Thing via the author in exchange for my honest review.
July 19, 2014
Lydia arrives at the New England inn for the wedding of her college roommate. She's newly divorced and the mother of a 3 year old who has a speech impairment. She's just looking to have a weekend off from her usual responsibilities to reconnect with her old friends. She doesn't expect to meet a man. Sam is also a guest at the wedding and the two meet in a sweet way and continue to hit it off over the course of the long weekend. They have to get past misgivings of his family as well as her own misgivings and just go for it. - enjoy getting to know someone new and all the possibilities that go with it.
I read this over a weekend and felt like I was a guest at the wedding - one of Lydia's college friends. I get together with my college friends every few years and I thought Gracen really nailed the dialogue of the women. I loved Donna and Kathryn and would love to read more about them in future books. Actually, all the characters made me curious about their day-to-day lives.
I really enjoyed Lydia and Sam and hope their story continues. I liked this first in a series and look forward to reading the next. There's a preview at the end of this book.
*I won this book from Library Thing Early Reviewers*
I read this over a weekend and felt like I was a guest at the wedding - one of Lydia's college friends. I get together with my college friends every few years and I thought Gracen really nailed the dialogue of the women. I loved Donna and Kathryn and would love to read more about them in future books. Actually, all the characters made me curious about their day-to-day lives.
I really enjoyed Lydia and Sam and hope their story continues. I liked this first in a series and look forward to reading the next. There's a preview at the end of this book.
*I won this book from Library Thing Early Reviewers*
June 5, 2014
Autumn Getaway brings love, hope, and a tad of drama to the reader. The characters are lovable, relatable, and a lot of fun. These were characters that I cheered for, hoped for happy endings, and wanted to see them enjoy life. I was proud of Lydia for being cautious, yet not willing to let life pass her by, and taking a chance with Sam. Lydia was also a wonderful mom, concerned about leaving her son, yet knowing that he would be okay with his father to take care of him. I loved how Jennifer Gracen kept Lydia’s son as a major part of the story. Sam is the dream man. He has a history, who doesn’t at age 35, but didn’t let it hold him back and he was understanding that Lydia was just starting to deal with her past.
The time of the year that Autumn Giveaway is set is perfect. The changing of the leaves, the grandeur of the hotel, even the driving to and from the hotel played like a picture in my head. I could see each scene perfectly.
This is a fun and easy read. I could not put it down and when forced to I kept drifting back to it. If you are looking for a read to make you smile and enjoy life Autumn Getaway is certainly the book for you.
The time of the year that Autumn Giveaway is set is perfect. The changing of the leaves, the grandeur of the hotel, even the driving to and from the hotel played like a picture in my head. I could see each scene perfectly.
This is a fun and easy read. I could not put it down and when forced to I kept drifting back to it. If you are looking for a read to make you smile and enjoy life Autumn Getaway is certainly the book for you.
April 24, 2015
I truly enjoyed this novel. I had not read anything by the author before and plan to read more from her. Thank you to NetGalley and Booktrope for the opportunity to read and review this lovely story!
The story of Lydia is just plain fun, pure and simple. Lydia is a 37-year old recent (very recent) divorced woman with a son who has a speech impediment. In this first installment, she is headed to a wedding in the autumn away from her son and all the angst that has gone along with her divorce. She is meeting college friends and plans to have a carefree weekend to enjoy the woods and the resort. And then she meets Sam. Enough said.....
This novel hit a chord with me because of the story and the dialog between the characters. It was so realistic to me. I could put myself into the picture as a bystander watching the relationship develop and seeing story unfold in my mind.
I've just started Book 2, a continuation of Sam and Lydia's story. I'm hoping for a continuation of this wonderful narrative!
The story of Lydia is just plain fun, pure and simple. Lydia is a 37-year old recent (very recent) divorced woman with a son who has a speech impediment. In this first installment, she is headed to a wedding in the autumn away from her son and all the angst that has gone along with her divorce. She is meeting college friends and plans to have a carefree weekend to enjoy the woods and the resort. And then she meets Sam. Enough said.....
This novel hit a chord with me because of the story and the dialog between the characters. It was so realistic to me. I could put myself into the picture as a bystander watching the relationship develop and seeing story unfold in my mind.
I've just started Book 2, a continuation of Sam and Lydia's story. I'm hoping for a continuation of this wonderful narrative!
February 4, 2015
This was a lovely read. Part one of a new series and I may have to read the next one straight away.
Lydia is invited to a weekend at a beautiful hotel, where her college room mate is marrying. She's left her little boy with her newly 'ex' husband and is looking forward to meeting up with old friends and enjoying some quality time- enjoying the spa facilities, walking in the grounds and catching up with her friends. You really feel as though you are on the girly weekend with them and a guest at the beautiful wedding!
She meets Sam as she is checking in- when he picks up her luggage and there is an instant attraction even though she is only newly divorced. He seems to be the perfect man and they meet up over the weekend, as he is related to the best man.
The rest of the books will follow their long distance relationship and I can't wait to catch up with them again.
Many thanks to Booktrope and Net Galley for a copy of this book. It was a great introduction to a new author for me and I can't wait to read more by her.
Lydia is invited to a weekend at a beautiful hotel, where her college room mate is marrying. She's left her little boy with her newly 'ex' husband and is looking forward to meeting up with old friends and enjoying some quality time- enjoying the spa facilities, walking in the grounds and catching up with her friends. You really feel as though you are on the girly weekend with them and a guest at the beautiful wedding!
She meets Sam as she is checking in- when he picks up her luggage and there is an instant attraction even though she is only newly divorced. He seems to be the perfect man and they meet up over the weekend, as he is related to the best man.
The rest of the books will follow their long distance relationship and I can't wait to catch up with them again.
Many thanks to Booktrope and Net Galley for a copy of this book. It was a great introduction to a new author for me and I can't wait to read more by her.
October 4, 2014
*Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock*
I give Autumn Getaway 4 out of 5 Fangs
Romance is not typically the genre that I choose first, however I am glad that I gave this book a chance. I thoroughly enjoy the writing and the story line. Lydia is a character that many women can relate to, however I thought that Sam was almost a little too perfect. I would have liked to see him be a little more flawed. I also feel that finding love so quickly after a divorce and falling so hard so quickly is just not realistic, however I understand that this is a romance novel and most readers of romance novels want to read about finding that perfect partner and a having a happily ever after story. And with Autumn Getaway you won’t be disappointed.
The author described the settings beautifully, living in New England I can appreciate the beauty of Autumn.
I give Autumn Getaway 4 out of 5 Fangs
Romance is not typically the genre that I choose first, however I am glad that I gave this book a chance. I thoroughly enjoy the writing and the story line. Lydia is a character that many women can relate to, however I thought that Sam was almost a little too perfect. I would have liked to see him be a little more flawed. I also feel that finding love so quickly after a divorce and falling so hard so quickly is just not realistic, however I understand that this is a romance novel and most readers of romance novels want to read about finding that perfect partner and a having a happily ever after story. And with Autumn Getaway you won’t be disappointed.
The author described the settings beautifully, living in New England I can appreciate the beauty of Autumn.
April 8, 2014
This is a wonderfully heart-warming book. Love comes along when Lydia least expects it. All she wanted was a weekend away to relax at her friend's wedding. But her heart rate doesn't get a break around Sam.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are well developed and the dialogue is great - heartfelt, and full of sizzle and snap as it needs to be.
This is the first book of the Seasons of Love series. There will be four books in total. I'm looking forward to following the lives and love of Sam and Lydia in Gracen's next book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. And then I liked it so much, I bought my own copy.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are well developed and the dialogue is great - heartfelt, and full of sizzle and snap as it needs to be.
This is the first book of the Seasons of Love series. There will be four books in total. I'm looking forward to following the lives and love of Sam and Lydia in Gracen's next book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. And then I liked it so much, I bought my own copy.
July 8, 2014
Autumn Getaway is a expertly-conceived, beautifully written start to a series that was wholly satisfying as it's own read. Ms. Gracen perfectly captures the emotional experience of being newly divorced and yet trying to maintain love in your heart, figuring out what trust means and if trust is even possible again, and attempting to forgive both yourself and your ex. She does all this while presenting the true-to-life heroine with an opportunity to create a romance that would fulfill any woman's dreams. The book pulls off both fun and poignant and is the perfect summer read. Highly recommended! I'm looking forward to the next!
November 6, 2014
This is a really great book. Jennifer Gracen does an awesome job of introducing the characters and developing the story line. The book encompasses a little bit of drama, old friends reuniting for a wedding, newly divorced mom (Lydia) and a handsome single man (Sam). It was a great, quick read and kept me entertained until the very end. I really loved the way the divorced mom stuck to her true self through the book. This is a great first book in the Seasons of Love series. I highly recommend this book. I give it 4 stars.
March 22, 2014
WOW! Just wow! Autumn Getaway will take you away for a weekend and leave you wanting so much more! This book has something that everyone can relate to. There is new relationship excitement for a recently divorced mom, family drama, parenting challenges, reuniting with old friends and much more. The way that Ms. Gracen can paint a picture is extraordinary. I couldn’t read it fast enough and I couldn’t read it slow enough…I just did not want the journey to end. Jennifer Gracen is a rockstar!
May 12, 2014
Autumn Getaway by Jennifer Gracen was a super fun book to read. From the moment I started reading this book I was hooked. I loved the characters and the authors writing. I was so sad when the book was done because I want to know what happens next and I have to know what happens with Sam & Lydia. I can't wait for the next book to come out because I am sure that it won't let me down just like this one didn't.
March 22, 2014
Grab a chair in the sun and fall in love with the characters like I did. Autumn Getaway is a warming story that will have you pulling for love and leaving you waiting for the next book in the series. I can't wait to read what Jennifer Gracen has in store for Sam and Lydia!
June 19, 2014
The characters are interesting and likeable, the storyline is enjoyable, the setting is great and the authors description created a lovely picture. Throw in a sweet romance and a darling little boy with a speech problem and you've got a fun read.
More books to come...yay!
More books to come...yay!
June 23, 2014
Just finished reading it and loved it! I loved the characters and I can't wait till the next book in the series comes out!!
June 14, 2014
Loved it!! beautiful love story!!! I recommend highly!
September 7, 2014
A beautifully written romance between a hero and heroine with whom all of us can identify. A fantastic debut book.
October 30, 2018
Cosy beginning then predicable and boring, shame
January 23, 2015
Autumn Getaway, Seasons of Love: Book One, Jennifer Gracen
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance.
I saw this trilogy and it appealed, not one full of sex but a more slow burn romance. In fact in this part there is no actual sex and yet its still full of sensuality. Having read several “erotic romances” recently that have been all sex and little story, this was just what I needed.
Lydia – she’s a great lead, recently divorced, one of those marriages where they just grew apart, and add in that her young son has severe speech problems, and her husband just didn’t want to make the effort to keep their marriage going. Lydia mourns the loss of what could have been even though she’s happy about the divorce. They couldn’t have continued and yet everyone – well almost everyone – has that idealistic dream of perfect home and family...and now for her its gone.
She’s on a weekend away at her good friend's wedding. Many of the guests have made a three day event of it as its in a glorious premises, and she meets Sam there. His family have been lifelong friends of the grooms family and his older brother Alex is the grooms best friend. there’s a connection between the two right from their first meeting which surprises them both. she’s excited and scared though – is it too soon? should she be concentrating on the struggle to help her son? granddaughter number one has sever speech problems and like Lydia we were fobbed of for years with “she’ll catch up/its because she has an older brother/because her parents have separated...” ad nauseum. After much struggling to get help finally when she started school and the staff said they couldn’t teach her as they didn’t know what she’d taken in she spent a full year in a language school in a class of nine, and everything became so much better, and she caught up to her peers. I can feel so much for Lydia, when the experts you need just won’t help its hard, everyone wants the best for their children and speech is such a basic thing. she and Sam chat and find they have so much in common and over the weekend they get much closer. Sam makes it clear he wants more than just the weekend though but Lydia is scared, she thinks maybe its too soon. Her friends are pushing her forward, thinking a fling is what she needs and yet she’s just not a fling type person...thankfully Sam understands. He too had had his share of problems, a very traumatic past and his family are more than a little protective of him, seeing Lydia as an emotional problems he doesn’t need. their intervention adds so much to the story, creates plenty of tension, angst and drama. Lydia can see their point but that’s the last thing Sam wants, his families intervention just when he’s finally on the way to persuading her they can have more, can try a long distance romance. If I was Sam I’d have been furious at them – and he was!
Its a great read, and I’m so happy I’ve got books two and three on my kindle. I really wanted to get to book two straight away but try to hold back and review she part first. That’s been hard to do!! Its been a treat to have a story that’s romance, but not page after page after page of tepid, boring, repetitive sex scenes. Seems like after FSoG every romance has to be a trilogy and full of sex. I loved Fifty, felt the story wasn’t detracted by the sex but its spawned a myriad of thin, dull stories packed with boring sex trying to cash in on its success.Tip: If the sex scene is dull first time round, repeating it endless times isn’t going to magically make it good. Even if its good constant repetition of the same unvaried sex gets dull.... there are some real gems and I’ve loved them, but also books that would have been better if, like this one, the sex was kept back and the story allowed to shine. It’s been a real treat to read a solid romance where the sex is tantalising, sensual and teasing, even when its just gentle touches and searingly hot, erotic kisses.
The weekend ends, and Lydia is back home, and now we just have to see whether they can make things work, given the distance, her problems with son Andy and Sam’s families very open opposition. Easy Winking smile
Stars: Five, a treat to read. How to make a story romantic, emotional and sensual without endless sex.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers.
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