Runaway Love by Melanie Harlow
Melanie Harlow’s latest novel, “Runaway Love,” is the first installment of her new series, Cherry Tree Harbor. Nanny Single Dad- Grumpy Sunshine let’s see what fun this might bring!
The story had a quaint small-town setting and a grumpy single dad as the protagonist, creating a cozy atmosphere. This has a light and flirty feel to the story. The sexual tension is there between the characters. There does seem to be a lack of really deep emotions to this story. Although they had physical intimacy early on, the emotional connection developed at a slower pace, but for where these characters where in their lives it worked and made sense. The hero’s denial of his feelings for an extended period was frustrating, and the reader might have wanted to shake him to his senses. Nonetheless, the book was a quick and engaging read that left the reader interested in the supporting characters and hoping to have their stories soon.
Veronica is a delight of a Runaway Bride
Veronica’s wedding day takes a terrible turn when she receives a text from her fiancé containing a sexually suggestive message intended for someone else. This prompts her to flee the wedding as a runaway bride, seeking refuge at a local diner. The locals sympathize with her situation and suggest she apply for a nanny position with a nearby single dad.
Enter Austin, a carpenter who is also a single father to 7-year-old twins. He finds himself in a bind when his sister, who was supposed to nanny for the summer, cancels on him. Veronica shows up at his door in her wedding dress, applying for the position. At first, he refuses, but soon realizes that she is the solution to his childcare dilemma. As they spend time together, they develop a connection, especially during the week his kids are away.
This book has a lighthearted and breezy feel with a touch of grumpiness and sunshine. It is a great start to the series, with hints of future books and couples. The romance develops quickly, but the third act breakup and insta-love elements may not be for everyone. The hero does redeem himself with some groveling at the end.
I really enjoyed this story and felt it was not over tropes like past books by the author. The world building was spot on and I am not invested into the town.
