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Pine Falls #1
Return to Sender
***Now a USA Today Bestselling Book***"This is the kind of book you suggest to your friends. The kind of story that sticks with you long after the last word." - Dana from Random Chaos ★★★★★He never wanted to leave her. She never expected him to return.If Ariana Stanton has learned anything in life, it's that men leave. She's been taught this lesson well from the father she's never met, who sends her a mysterious letter once a year, to her ex-fiancé, who left her for another woman. So, when she meets the charming and seemingly perfect Jonah, she promises him they will never be more than friends. It's a promise she can't keep. But before he has a chance to leave her, she sends him away.Dr. Jonah Adkinson has one regret--that he let Ariana remain convinced that love never lasts. But now, nine years later, the single dad is back in Pine Falls and on a prove Ariana wrong. He's determined to win over the love of his life. And this time he won't let anything get in the way, not even her.Now, not only does Ariana have to face the man she's still in love with, but she must confront the mystery of her father's letters, forcing her to reevaluate the past and her choices. But will it be enough to make her believe that, unlike the letter she's always returned, Jonah is hers to keep?
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 27, 2019
1509 people are currently reading
872 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Peel
62 books1,264 followersJennifer Peel is the mother of three amazing kiddos. Wife to her one and only for the past twenty-two years. Lover of late night talks, beach vacations, the mountains, pink bubble gum ice cream, tours of model homes, and southern living. She can frequently be found with her laptop on, fingers typing away, indulging in chocolate milk, and writing out the stories that are constantly swirling through her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
November 21, 2019
There is a reason I am so drawn to Jennifer Peel's books. It's the real emotional connection I always find with her characters and in her words. I know when I open a new book I am in for the most fantastic journey filled with wonderful characters and amazing chemistry. Jennifer Peel doesn't shy away from hard topics that dig deeper emotionally.
Ariana is a complex character with a troubled past that will just tug at your heartstrings. Her perceived truth starts shifting when Jonah walks back into her life and brings some of his own troubles. There is an invisible cord that binds Ariana to Jonah and it sparks to life every time they are together. You can just feel the sparks and the longing between them. Ariana tries so hard to push it all away but that Jonah, wow, he is determined. And patient. Almost a saint, really. He really is out to prove something to Ariana and I loved every second of it.
I loved the secondary characters, I loved the letter aspect and how things unfolded with that. I loved seeing my old friends from the Not So Wicked series. I loved the sweet little girl that Jonah brings into Ariana's life. I loved the all the "feels" that came with this book.
Every page, every word. LOVED IT.
Ariana is a complex character with a troubled past that will just tug at your heartstrings. Her perceived truth starts shifting when Jonah walks back into her life and brings some of his own troubles. There is an invisible cord that binds Ariana to Jonah and it sparks to life every time they are together. You can just feel the sparks and the longing between them. Ariana tries so hard to push it all away but that Jonah, wow, he is determined. And patient. Almost a saint, really. He really is out to prove something to Ariana and I loved every second of it.
I loved the secondary characters, I loved the letter aspect and how things unfolded with that. I loved seeing my old friends from the Not So Wicked series. I loved the sweet little girl that Jonah brings into Ariana's life. I loved the all the "feels" that came with this book.
Every page, every word. LOVED IT.
May 20, 2021
4.5*
(May 2021) I just finished listening to this book and loved it just as much as the first time I read it. The narrator did such a great job. She really brings these characters to life. Not just by reading the words of the story but with little things she does in the narration. She beautifully added the emotions of these characters into every scene. I loved it! If you were like me in waiting for a while to read this one, don't wait any longer. Such a great series! The third book is about to come out and I am anxiously awaiting it. Check out the content section at the bottom of my review.
*****Review from my first reading of the book Oct. 2020******
I've had this book waiting on my kindle for a few months. And I kept saying I would read it soon. Well that soon turned into a few months. Then I saw that the next book in the series was coming out and I saw it was a marriage of convenience story and I knew I couldn't wait to read it. But it's a series that needs to be read in order (in my opinion) so I quickly grabbed my copy of Return to Sender and dove into Pine Falls. I know I can always count on Jennifer Peel to write an emotionally tugging story that draws me in, wraps around my heart, draws out some tears, gives me a new perspective and touches me deeply.
Ariana was a very complex character. Her backstory is heartbreaking and has caused her to put up walls, blocking herself off from living her life fully. She thinks she knows what her past is but there are many things she doesn't see it completely. The story dives into her healing and learning as she discovers more truths about her heart, her sorrows, her heartbreaks, her anger, her safe places and her decision to move forward or not.
Her friends/cousins were foster children and understand a lot of Ariana's heartaches and reticence. I really liked these three friends. Dani and Kinsley are adopted by Ariana's grandparents. I loved the love and healing that the Stanton grandparents help these girls find.
Jonah walked away from Ariana but now he's back. Oh I loved so many scenes between these two. Especially their second, first meeting. Does that make sense. When he comes back in town, she's avoiding him like the plague but there's some sneaky plans that come about and she finds herself face to face with the love of her life. The have a sweet friendship that I loved watching grow and get better.
There are so many great words of advice that can be applied to all of us in our relationships. Good and bad. Words of wisdom to help us know that we are of great worth and that we are capable of doing hard things and moving past the ugly and the hurt.
There's a sweet love story and a very precocious 5 year old who just melts your heart and has you wanting to hold her tight and protect her from her sorrows. And Jonah's love and devotion...it's endearing and has you rooting for him and Ariana to find their way. I just finished the second book in the series and loved it just as much or more than the first one. Read them. Be ready to be pulled into the emotions and loneliness. But also the joys and love and healing.
Content: This book has several topics that can be triggers for many. I would suggest it for more mature readers. It doesn't get graphic in said topics that I consider it clean but as I said I think better suited for more mature readers, it would be one I wouldn't let me teenagers read until they are older. Some of the topics are pregnancy out of wedlock, adoption, foster care, therapy, alcohol and drugs (very minor), divorce, not knowing your father, sex (the characters do not have sex in the book but there is talk about it, some in the sense of avoiding it because of trauma from childhood), there are mild innuendos throughout as well but spoken in relationships building up to being married and not having relations until then. That seems like a lot but I really felt that the author did a really good job taking these situations that truly happen in life and hurts so many, and shows how those who have experienced it can heal and find joy and peace in life and love that is true and real and healthy.
Happy Reading!!!
(May 2021) I just finished listening to this book and loved it just as much as the first time I read it. The narrator did such a great job. She really brings these characters to life. Not just by reading the words of the story but with little things she does in the narration. She beautifully added the emotions of these characters into every scene. I loved it! If you were like me in waiting for a while to read this one, don't wait any longer. Such a great series! The third book is about to come out and I am anxiously awaiting it. Check out the content section at the bottom of my review.
*****Review from my first reading of the book Oct. 2020******
I've had this book waiting on my kindle for a few months. And I kept saying I would read it soon. Well that soon turned into a few months. Then I saw that the next book in the series was coming out and I saw it was a marriage of convenience story and I knew I couldn't wait to read it. But it's a series that needs to be read in order (in my opinion) so I quickly grabbed my copy of Return to Sender and dove into Pine Falls. I know I can always count on Jennifer Peel to write an emotionally tugging story that draws me in, wraps around my heart, draws out some tears, gives me a new perspective and touches me deeply.
Ariana was a very complex character. Her backstory is heartbreaking and has caused her to put up walls, blocking herself off from living her life fully. She thinks she knows what her past is but there are many things she doesn't see it completely. The story dives into her healing and learning as she discovers more truths about her heart, her sorrows, her heartbreaks, her anger, her safe places and her decision to move forward or not.
Her friends/cousins were foster children and understand a lot of Ariana's heartaches and reticence. I really liked these three friends. Dani and Kinsley are adopted by Ariana's grandparents. I loved the love and healing that the Stanton grandparents help these girls find.
Jonah walked away from Ariana but now he's back. Oh I loved so many scenes between these two. Especially their second, first meeting. Does that make sense. When he comes back in town, she's avoiding him like the plague but there's some sneaky plans that come about and she finds herself face to face with the love of her life. The have a sweet friendship that I loved watching grow and get better.
There are so many great words of advice that can be applied to all of us in our relationships. Good and bad. Words of wisdom to help us know that we are of great worth and that we are capable of doing hard things and moving past the ugly and the hurt.
There's a sweet love story and a very precocious 5 year old who just melts your heart and has you wanting to hold her tight and protect her from her sorrows. And Jonah's love and devotion...it's endearing and has you rooting for him and Ariana to find their way. I just finished the second book in the series and loved it just as much or more than the first one. Read them. Be ready to be pulled into the emotions and loneliness. But also the joys and love and healing.
Content: This book has several topics that can be triggers for many. I would suggest it for more mature readers. It doesn't get graphic in said topics that I consider it clean but as I said I think better suited for more mature readers, it would be one I wouldn't let me teenagers read until they are older. Some of the topics are pregnancy out of wedlock, adoption, foster care, therapy, alcohol and drugs (very minor), divorce, not knowing your father, sex (the characters do not have sex in the book but there is talk about it, some in the sense of avoiding it because of trauma from childhood), there are mild innuendos throughout as well but spoken in relationships building up to being married and not having relations until then. That seems like a lot but I really felt that the author did a really good job taking these situations that truly happen in life and hurts so many, and shows how those who have experienced it can heal and find joy and peace in life and love that is true and real and healthy.
Happy Reading!!!
January 18, 2020
Oh my heart! Jonah and Ariana have beautiful chemistry and even though the beginning is heartbreaking, I quickly became caught up in Ariana's present-day transformation of healing and coming to life again as her close friends and grandma stage a bit of an intervention. Jonah's sweet determination to not only reconnect with Ariana but win her heart and commitment was amazing, and through all the bumps in the road of emotional healing they discover how they fit in each other's life again. I thought the personality and mannerisms of Jonah's daughter were so interesting and really brought another layer of depth to the story as Ariana nurtures the inner child that yearns to creep out of the mold but doesn't know how. Ariana's difficult childhood, dysfunctional relationship with her mother, and the influence of her lack of father are explored as she relents to therapy and faces her fears with Jonah's help. I loved the positive view of therapy and how the right therapist can be so helpful. I think it's so important to overcome the stigma so that when the time comes in everyone's life that they may need it, they will not feel ashamed to reach out and embrace the healing. There is a bit of a mystery with the unopened letters that keeps a sense of anticipation throughout the book, and I was satisfied with the resolution that came about. Another winner from this author that had me giggling, smiling, feeling the emotions, and wiping tears.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
January 6, 2020
I’m not a fan of the “poor me, I had a horrible childhood” trope. I know it sounds insensitive, but put your big girl panties on and stop sabotaging your life.
October 30, 2020
Another fantastic story by Jennifer Peel!
January 16, 2023
9 years ago Ariana Stanton made one of the hardest decisions of her life. She let Jonah Adkinson go. She broke all her rules when she fell in love with him. But in her mind, she wasn't enough for him. What mattered most was his happiness and if her past has taught her anything, it's that she doesn't have the ability to give him the love and happiness he deserves.
But now Jonah's back and he's ready to do what he should have done 9 years ago. Fight for Ariana. Fight for their love. Fight for their happiness. All these years, she's been the only thing missing in his life. His life is not complete without her in it. He and his adorable daughter, Whitney, need her more than ever. Jonah is determined to prove to Ariana that she's enough. Prove to her that she is loved and capable of loving in return. Prove to her that if anyone deserves a HEA, it's them. Is it going to be easy? Absolutely not. Is it going to be worth it? You better believe it.
*dreamy sigh*
Have you ever picked up a book and knew from the very beginning that you were going to love it? Or been so captivated that you lose all track of time? Forget to eat? Or finish a book only to have it stay with you for days afterwards? If the answer to any of those questions are yes, then you know exactly how I felt while reading Return to Sender. One minute, I'm sitting in my big comfy chair in my room and the next I'm in Pine Falls getting lost in all things Ariana, Jonah and Whitney.
Oh how I adored those three! They quickly became favorites of mine. Their journey was definitely not an easy one. They had to learn to have patience, to love unconditionally, to have courage, to be understanding of each other, to have enough strength to make the necessary changes, to have faith and hope that everything will work out the way it should in the end.
Y'all! Ms. Peel has done it again! Just when I think I've found my favorite book by her, she releases another one and I fall in love all over again. I honestly can't get enough of her books! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course I cannot forget my casting! I am in love with these two! What do you think?!
But now Jonah's back and he's ready to do what he should have done 9 years ago. Fight for Ariana. Fight for their love. Fight for their happiness. All these years, she's been the only thing missing in his life. His life is not complete without her in it. He and his adorable daughter, Whitney, need her more than ever. Jonah is determined to prove to Ariana that she's enough. Prove to her that she is loved and capable of loving in return. Prove to her that if anyone deserves a HEA, it's them. Is it going to be easy? Absolutely not. Is it going to be worth it? You better believe it.
*dreamy sigh*
Have you ever picked up a book and knew from the very beginning that you were going to love it? Or been so captivated that you lose all track of time? Forget to eat? Or finish a book only to have it stay with you for days afterwards? If the answer to any of those questions are yes, then you know exactly how I felt while reading Return to Sender. One minute, I'm sitting in my big comfy chair in my room and the next I'm in Pine Falls getting lost in all things Ariana, Jonah and Whitney.
Oh how I adored those three! They quickly became favorites of mine. Their journey was definitely not an easy one. They had to learn to have patience, to love unconditionally, to have courage, to be understanding of each other, to have enough strength to make the necessary changes, to have faith and hope that everything will work out the way it should in the end.
Y'all! Ms. Peel has done it again! Just when I think I've found my favorite book by her, she releases another one and I fall in love all over again. I honestly can't get enough of her books! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course I cannot forget my casting! I am in love with these two! What do you think?!
December 18, 2019
The emotional element is very strong with this story. Ariana has had a rough life, yet she has an inner strength that resulted from her challenges. Ariana displays a characteristic that is easy for me to relate to. On a completely different level and for obviously different reasons, I, too, fear my loved ones leaving me, although I don't allow that fear to debilitate me.
Years previous, Jonah left when Ariana pushed him away, but he's back and he's back to stay, along with his precocious daughter, Whitney. Jonah is a sweet and charming man with the patience of a saint as Ariana works through her issues.
While there is some romance, this book mainly focuses on some tough issues that stem from Ariana's past. I love that Ariana is so flawed, yet she remains likable and easy to relate to. Facing her past forces growth, which is where the emotions really come into play, drawing the reader completely into the book. This is the type of story that a reader will want to move into.
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, some innuendo); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Years previous, Jonah left when Ariana pushed him away, but he's back and he's back to stay, along with his precocious daughter, Whitney. Jonah is a sweet and charming man with the patience of a saint as Ariana works through her issues.
While there is some romance, this book mainly focuses on some tough issues that stem from Ariana's past. I love that Ariana is so flawed, yet she remains likable and easy to relate to. Facing her past forces growth, which is where the emotions really come into play, drawing the reader completely into the book. This is the type of story that a reader will want to move into.
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, some innuendo); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
January 14, 2021
This is a great start to a new series. Loved Ariana and Jonah. I smiled a lot while reading this book. It’s a clean read but not CF. Romance readers will enjoy this one.
January 5, 2020
I feel like I’ve just been on an emotional journey. I’ll be mentally reliving this book for a while. 💜
March 4, 2020
I’m so sorry to rain on the parade of reviewers who awarded mostly five-star reviews. I am a Jennifer Peel fan and, until now, have awarded her mostly four or five stars as a writer of clean romantic fiction. Unfortunately, the dark and gloomy prose had me checking to verify that this was a Jennifer Peel work. Never before had I experienced such a “woe is me” protagonist in one of her novels. I found myself unprepared to accept such a dark and foreboding character as a heroine. As the story progressed, it became difficult for me to maintain my interest. Finally, at about two-thirds of the way through, I reached my decision to abort reading this novel. I happen to be a member of the “older” generation. When I was young, only battle-hardened military men got tattoos, and no respectable women would even consider such a desecration of her body. Only women wore earrings, and a man would feel the disdain of society if he were to degrade himself so. An educated professional, such as a doctor, would never, ever consider wearing an earring. I recognize that the world is different now, but, for me, piercing the ears of little girls and doctors is a turn-off for me. Tattoos are a disfigurement that desecrates our God-given bodies. When I reached the point where tattoos and ear piercings were not only acceptable but advocated, I had enough and aborted the read.
July 25, 2023
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK or decent reads.
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October 10, 2020
Heartbreaking backstory that really gets you rooting for Ariana. Jonas was the perfect man to stick in there during her therapy-wound lancing issues. Her friends and grandparents were delightful and well-drawn. Though I learned to like Whitney as a character, I found her a real stretch as a five-year-old. It was fun to see Ariana work with her to loosen up. Satisfying ending. You won't be disappointed.
December 30, 2019
Ariana does not have a good track record with men sticking around. Starting with her own father, who abandoned her before birth, leaving her with a mom who went through men faster than fire through a brittle forest (and those men all left eventually as well). When she got old enough to fall in love herself, she got engaged, only to discover her fiancé had another fiancée besides her when she took her ring in to be resized. She has sworn off men, until she meets Jonah when he’s in med school. She tells him they can only be friends, but soon they become kissing friends…and then he asks her to marry him…ruining everything. She told him not to fall in love with her. She cannot bear to return another man to sender, so she lets Jonah go, never expecting to see him again. But 9 years later, he returns to Pine Falls…and things get interesting.
I loved this story. The characters were amazing. Peel always creates heroes and heroines that come alive in my mind. Ariana is deeply wounded and has a lot to overcome before she can ever trust her heart again, but Jonah loves her enough to be patient and wait for her. This is a wonderfully romantic book that captured me right from the beginning when Ariana is seeking counseling from her goldfish Goldie Hawn. Love! I highly recommend this one. It’s an emotional heart-tugger with incredible characters I fell in love with.
I loved this story. The characters were amazing. Peel always creates heroes and heroines that come alive in my mind. Ariana is deeply wounded and has a lot to overcome before she can ever trust her heart again, but Jonah loves her enough to be patient and wait for her. This is a wonderfully romantic book that captured me right from the beginning when Ariana is seeking counseling from her goldfish Goldie Hawn. Love! I highly recommend this one. It’s an emotional heart-tugger with incredible characters I fell in love with.
December 28, 2019
One thing I love about reading a Jennifer Peel novel is the guarantee that I'll have a good story in my hands. Return to Sender was no exception. I swooned (Jonah is a fantastic hero!), laughed (Ariana has great snark), and went through all the emotions as these two fought for their relationships.
I will definitely reread this novel since I kind of devoured it the first go round. I can't wait for the other books in this series. Judging from the awesome secondary characters, their stories will be just as great.
I will definitely reread this novel since I kind of devoured it the first go round. I can't wait for the other books in this series. Judging from the awesome secondary characters, their stories will be just as great.
May 26, 2020
Yowzers. The dysfunction was strong in this one…
Ariana Stanton had a pretty bad childhood. Her mother went from man to man, often from one bad situation to worse, with her mother telling her things like “I’m the only one who will ever love you.” At 35, she’s just NOW thinking maybe it’s a good idea to see a therapist.
If there is ever a reason to utter the phrase “no shit, Sherlock,” this is it.
Anyway, Jonah Adkinson had the misfortune of falling in love with Ariana nine years ago. But she pushed him away, and instead of fighting for her, he left town to the residency he had waiting for him. He finished medical school, got married, had a child, then divorced and returned to Pine Falls with the intent of winning back the love of his life.
I kinda liked Jonah. He was a good man, a good dad, and I didn’t really blame him for going off and trying to find happiness when his feelings for Ariana were rebuffed. But the heart wants what the heart wants, so it was kinda sweet that, once his wife decided she wasn’t all that interested in being a wife or mother, he went after the woman he’d always loved.
But Ariana. Whoa. She was all kinds of a hot mess. She certainly had good reason for being messed up in the head. But once you realize your lack of emotional health has caused you to push a good person away, you need to pull up your big girl panties and get some help. That’s what adults do. I wanted to feel sympathy for Ariana and her feelings of abandonment, along with all the other issues she had, but I just...couldn’t. It seemed all she ever thought about was how much her mother had done her wrong.
So this book was all kinds of disappointing to me. I hardly can believe it was written by Jennifer Peel, the same author who wrote the More Than a Wife series, which has three fantastic, amazing stories about three fantastic, amazing heroines. I thought maybe this was an earlier book, but nope it was released less than five months ago (and just two months before The Dear Wife (More Than a Wife #3), which was an unbelievably touching, heartbreaking, emotional story). There was very little evidence this was written by the author I’ve come to love for writing touching, realistic dialogue and strong heroines who maybe fall a little bit apart but generally have their crap together. Instead, here we got conversation that was titled towards the melodramatic and a milquetoast heroine.
I know not every book by a well-liked author is going to be great. But this one really has me questioning my devotion to this author. I have a couple other books by Ms. Peel downloaded...hopefully they pull me back into the “big fan” category.
Ariana Stanton had a pretty bad childhood. Her mother went from man to man, often from one bad situation to worse, with her mother telling her things like “I’m the only one who will ever love you.” At 35, she’s just NOW thinking maybe it’s a good idea to see a therapist.
If there is ever a reason to utter the phrase “no shit, Sherlock,” this is it.
Anyway, Jonah Adkinson had the misfortune of falling in love with Ariana nine years ago. But she pushed him away, and instead of fighting for her, he left town to the residency he had waiting for him. He finished medical school, got married, had a child, then divorced and returned to Pine Falls with the intent of winning back the love of his life.
I kinda liked Jonah. He was a good man, a good dad, and I didn’t really blame him for going off and trying to find happiness when his feelings for Ariana were rebuffed. But the heart wants what the heart wants, so it was kinda sweet that, once his wife decided she wasn’t all that interested in being a wife or mother, he went after the woman he’d always loved.
But Ariana. Whoa. She was all kinds of a hot mess. She certainly had good reason for being messed up in the head. But once you realize your lack of emotional health has caused you to push a good person away, you need to pull up your big girl panties and get some help. That’s what adults do. I wanted to feel sympathy for Ariana and her feelings of abandonment, along with all the other issues she had, but I just...couldn’t. It seemed all she ever thought about was how much her mother had done her wrong.
So this book was all kinds of disappointing to me. I hardly can believe it was written by Jennifer Peel, the same author who wrote the More Than a Wife series, which has three fantastic, amazing stories about three fantastic, amazing heroines. I thought maybe this was an earlier book, but nope it was released less than five months ago (and just two months before The Dear Wife (More Than a Wife #3), which was an unbelievably touching, heartbreaking, emotional story). There was very little evidence this was written by the author I’ve come to love for writing touching, realistic dialogue and strong heroines who maybe fall a little bit apart but generally have their crap together. Instead, here we got conversation that was titled towards the melodramatic and a milquetoast heroine.
I know not every book by a well-liked author is going to be great. But this one really has me questioning my devotion to this author. I have a couple other books by Ms. Peel downloaded...hopefully they pull me back into the “big fan” category.
March 23, 2021
9 years ago Ariana Stanton made one of the hardest decisions of her life. She let Jonah Adkinson go. She broke all her rules when she fell in love with him. But in her mind, she wasn't enough for him. What mattered most was his happiness and if her past has taught her anything, it's that she doesn't have the ability to give him the love and happiness he deserves.
But now Jonah's back and he's ready to do what he should have done 9 years ago. Fight for Ariana. Fight for their love. Fight for their happiness. All these years, she's been the only thing missing in his life. His life is not complete without her in it. He and his adorable daughter, Whitney, need her more than ever. Jonah is determined to prove to Ariana that she's enough. Prove to her that she is loved and capable of loving in return. Prove to her that if anyone deserves a HEA, it's them. Is it going to be easy? Absolutely not. Is it going to be worth it? You better believe it.
*dreamy sigh*
Have you ever picked up a book and knew from the very beginning that you were going to love it? Or been so captivated that you lose all track of time? Forget to eat? Or finish a book only to have it stay with you for days afterwards? If the answer to any of those questions are yes, then you know exactly how I felt while reading Return to Sender. One minute, I'm sitting in my big comfy chair in my room and the next I'm in Pine Falls getting lost in all things Ariana, Jonah and Whitney.
Oh how I adored those three! They quickly became favorites of mine. Their journey was definitely not an easy one. They had to learn to have patience, to love unconditionally, to have courage, to be understanding of each other, to have enough strength to make the necessary changes, to have faith and hope that everything will work out the way it should in the end.
Y'all! Ms. Peel has done it again! Just when I think I've found my favorite book by her, she releases another one and I fall in love all over again. I honestly can't get enough of her books! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course I cannot forget my casting! I am in love with these two! What do you think?!
But now Jonah's back and he's ready to do what he should have done 9 years ago. Fight for Ariana. Fight for their love. Fight for their happiness. All these years, she's been the only thing missing in his life. His life is not complete without her in it. He and his adorable daughter, Whitney, need her more than ever. Jonah is determined to prove to Ariana that she's enough. Prove to her that she is loved and capable of loving in return. Prove to her that if anyone deserves a HEA, it's them. Is it going to be easy? Absolutely not. Is it going to be worth it? You better believe it.
*dreamy sigh*
Have you ever picked up a book and knew from the very beginning that you were going to love it? Or been so captivated that you lose all track of time? Forget to eat? Or finish a book only to have it stay with you for days afterwards? If the answer to any of those questions are yes, then you know exactly how I felt while reading Return to Sender. One minute, I'm sitting in my big comfy chair in my room and the next I'm in Pine Falls getting lost in all things Ariana, Jonah and Whitney.
Oh how I adored those three! They quickly became favorites of mine. Their journey was definitely not an easy one. They had to learn to have patience, to love unconditionally, to have courage, to be understanding of each other, to have enough strength to make the necessary changes, to have faith and hope that everything will work out the way it should in the end.
Y'all! Ms. Peel has done it again! Just when I think I've found my favorite book by her, she releases another one and I fall in love all over again. I honestly can't get enough of her books! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
And of course I cannot forget my casting! I am in love with these two! What do you think?!
January 26, 2021
Anyone who knows me, knows how much I adore this author. Every story has so much rich, real emotion while still being able to maintain a warmth and sweetness that is often missing in contemporary romance. While I love the writing in every single book of hers, however, it’s only natural that I love some more than others.
In this particular case, I had a really hard time connecting to the female character of Ariana. We are told throughout the book that she had a rough childhood but we were never shown it. That makes if very difficult to relate to her extreme behavior where Jonah is concerned. Most of us can't even begin to relate to someone acting that paranoid with someone so awesome as Jonah without a deeper understanding of what caused it. Without that emotional understanding (again, told not shown really hurts in this situation) of why she behaves so extremely, she just drives me nuts!
Also, the perfect and quick resolution and immediate acceptance to the adoption storyline felt really weird. Wouldn't she have needed at least a little more time to get to know everyone before she jumped right into accepting them and visa-versa? Even if she is happy, it would take some time to get used to on both fronts.
So... final result? I liked the story, I just didn’t love it quite as much as many of her other offerings.
In this particular case, I had a really hard time connecting to the female character of Ariana. We are told throughout the book that she had a rough childhood but we were never shown it. That makes if very difficult to relate to her extreme behavior where Jonah is concerned. Most of us can't even begin to relate to someone acting that paranoid with someone so awesome as Jonah without a deeper understanding of what caused it. Without that emotional understanding (again, told not shown really hurts in this situation) of why she behaves so extremely, she just drives me nuts!
Also, the perfect and quick resolution and immediate acceptance to the adoption storyline felt really weird. Wouldn't she have needed at least a little more time to get to know everyone before she jumped right into accepting them and visa-versa? Even if she is happy, it would take some time to get used to on both fronts.
So... final result? I liked the story, I just didn’t love it quite as much as many of her other offerings.
March 1, 2021
Oh this book was just so silly - not the content but the way the characters acted! I wanted to like it more - but I just couldn’t. Ariana is a 35 year old woman who acts more like a 20 year old. They all did! I couldn’t believe she and her friends were in their mid-30s with all their love triangles and trying to figure out what they wanted to do with their lives. Ariana did have a rough childhood - but it was a little weird how it was portrayed. It was bizarre to me that after 9 years, her ex-boyfriend gets divorced and comes right back to her wanting to pick up right where they left off. And her grandma and friends tricking her into seeing him - it was so weird. And don’t even get me started on the weird robotic like ex-wife! Then the mystery of her dad is solved and that all happened so quickly and the reunion was not realistic - I know from experience how awkward it is meeting biological family you’ve never met before and some of the phrases and conversations they had made me physically cringe. Some of it was cute. I liked Jonah mostly, other than the fact that he was forcing his relationship way too quickly after his divorce, and I did appreciate the growth Ariana made. Except when she forced Jonah to get his ear pierced! That was so so weird. Anyway - I did like some things about the book, most of it was okay, but some of it I really didn’t care for.
December 31, 2019
All the feels for this book!
I’ve been dying to get my hands on this newest book by the talented Jennifer Peel, and although I lost way too much sleep over reading it, every delicious moment was worth it.
From the beginning you are pulled into the story, and can empathize and feel Ariana, the protagonist’s, emotions. Having dealt a lot with childhood trauma, including abuse and neglect, (I’ve been a foster parent for 4 years), her story rang true to me. She is a good person who is still struggling to work through her past, which includes some painful memories that even had me tearing up. Her “sisters” were such great side characters and I can’t wait to read the next book about Dani.
Don’t even get me started on Jonah- wow he was so perfect for Ariana, and definitely brought many swoony moments to the plot. I loved that he was human, and made mistakes, but also that he kept coming back and was so devoted to being there for Ariana. Whitney was also such a sweet part of this book- loved her!
Another fantastic story by Jennifer Peel- you don’t want to miss out on this one!
I’ve been dying to get my hands on this newest book by the talented Jennifer Peel, and although I lost way too much sleep over reading it, every delicious moment was worth it.
From the beginning you are pulled into the story, and can empathize and feel Ariana, the protagonist’s, emotions. Having dealt a lot with childhood trauma, including abuse and neglect, (I’ve been a foster parent for 4 years), her story rang true to me. She is a good person who is still struggling to work through her past, which includes some painful memories that even had me tearing up. Her “sisters” were such great side characters and I can’t wait to read the next book about Dani.
Don’t even get me started on Jonah- wow he was so perfect for Ariana, and definitely brought many swoony moments to the plot. I loved that he was human, and made mistakes, but also that he kept coming back and was so devoted to being there for Ariana. Whitney was also such a sweet part of this book- loved her!
Another fantastic story by Jennifer Peel- you don’t want to miss out on this one!
March 30, 2022
Jennifer Peel has such a skill for writing deep, emotional romance & this book was no exception. Watching Ariana go on her own personal journey with Jonah at her side was impactful & beautiful. The perfect amount of romance & depth!
January 28, 2022
I was browsing hoopla for an audiobooks earlier this week and decided to give this one a try. I’m so glad I did! This story was beautiful.
Ariana had a troubled complex past with her mom, the father she never knew, and men that she had loved and lost. She is pushed by those who love her to deal with her issues and see her worth. It was a beautiful story of facing your past, so that you can move confidently into your future. A bit of a tear jerker, funny at times, and had a little mystery thrown in there too. If you like a story that shows lots of character growth, this is a great one. Loved listening and my kids got out of doing dishes because I told them if they let me listen to my audiobook, I’d do the dishes for them. Couldn’t stop listening.
Ariana had a troubled complex past with her mom, the father she never knew, and men that she had loved and lost. She is pushed by those who love her to deal with her issues and see her worth. It was a beautiful story of facing your past, so that you can move confidently into your future. A bit of a tear jerker, funny at times, and had a little mystery thrown in there too. If you like a story that shows lots of character growth, this is a great one. Loved listening and my kids got out of doing dishes because I told them if they let me listen to my audiobook, I’d do the dishes for them. Couldn’t stop listening.
May 5, 2020
Romance, clean, contemporary; abuse and other situational things PG-13
Loved this read. Ariana, Jonah and their complex pasts and presents made for a lovely, emotionally turbulent, but satisfying read with their honest hurting hearts, and Jonah's devotion and willingness to stick with Ariana. Complex, complicated, hurting, honest, and heartfelt, Ariana's sad past, the supportive family she has around her, and her 'find' at the end of the novel, made for a perfect read.
Loved this read. Ariana, Jonah and their complex pasts and presents made for a lovely, emotionally turbulent, but satisfying read with their honest hurting hearts, and Jonah's devotion and willingness to stick with Ariana. Complex, complicated, hurting, honest, and heartfelt, Ariana's sad past, the supportive family she has around her, and her 'find' at the end of the novel, made for a perfect read.
November 13, 2020
Ok, for a minute I was like “I’m not sure if I’m feeling this”... but then I got to a point where I was like “I want to see where this goes” ... and now I’m like “I glad I finished it.”
It was good story of real family, love, support, pushing passed your demons and opening yourself up again.
It was good story of real family, love, support, pushing passed your demons and opening yourself up again.
January 15, 2024
4.5⭐️
July 12, 2024
Oh this was good. Clean and real romance with a very damaged woman. My heart hurt for Ariana. I just kept finding more chores so I could keep listening. 4.5 stars.
July 27, 2025
Cute. FMC was a little annoying. MMC was a little unbelievable. But overall a sweet little spice free, happy read.
January 18, 2020
Cute quick read. Of course predictable, but a good one to get mind off life and crazy kids
December 27, 2019
Sigh worthy
Loved it! Could not put it down! Such a great story about overcoming the past and fear to follow one's heart to love! Added this to my favorites. It will be reread alot with my other Jennifer Peel favorite novels.
Loved it! Could not put it down! Such a great story about overcoming the past and fear to follow one's heart to love! Added this to my favorites. It will be reread alot with my other Jennifer Peel favorite novels.
April 19, 2020
Good Story
I enjoyed this story. Woman scared to fall in love and let others love her because of the many marriages of her mother. Glad I read it.
I enjoyed this story. Woman scared to fall in love and let others love her because of the many marriages of her mother. Glad I read it.
December 28, 2019
Healing Love Story
This is definitely an interesting as well as healing love story with adorable and heartwarming characters that will steal your heart as they journey towards true unconditional love and understanding.
This is definitely an interesting as well as healing love story with adorable and heartwarming characters that will steal your heart as they journey towards true unconditional love and understanding.
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