Meant to Be (Sweetbriar Cove Book 1)

I’m not typically a sappy love story kind of reader, but this book stumbled across the screen of my kindle and I gave it a shot! Definitely worth the read! Looking forward to reading the rest of her books in her series!

I love every book Melody has ever written. She has a beautiful way of building her characters and her story lines are excellent. She has always been able to draw me in to her stories. She is that good. I highly recommend every book Melody has every written. I have read them all.

It's a nice story and I really enjoyed the way the relationship between the main characters blooms, but at the same time it somehow forces the reader to feel doom looming for quite a while and when it finally hits it's absolutely ridiculous. It's a terrible way to muddle an otherwise very nice story.
I think I'll look for other books on the series, hoping it's a mistake that only happens in this one.

This book kicks off a new series by Melody Grace. It's also the first book I've read by this author. I read this right after an extremely angsty historical romance, so the change of setting and tone were nice.

Poppy is a romance novelist. As the book opens, she's just broken her engagement two weeks before her wedding because she finally admits to herself that this wasn't a relationship she wanted for the long-term. She had been forcing it because on paper, everything worked. Owen (the ex) is a nice guy. Unlike lots of other books with similar themes, he didn't cheat on her or commit a crime or do anything unsavory; he's just an average guy who has the misfortune to not be her soulmate.

She escapes to Sweetbriar Cove on Cape Cod, where she once spent a happy summer with her aunt as a child. I don't recall many details about Poppy's family and I can't remember if it's because my memory isn't very good or because it's kept really vague. Maybe both. Anyway, her Aunt June is out of the country for a few weeks, and she knows Poppy needs some solitude. Not only is she dealing with the fallout of canceling her wedding, but she's suffering from a terrible case of writer's block and she's under pressure from her agent to provide a draft of the final book in a popular romance series. There were times when this was a little too meta for me. At at the same time, this is a character who loves romance (obviously), so she's also easy to identify with. I really felt for Poppy when she had to confront how much she hurt her ex, but I was rooting for her to find a partner she could have the kind of connection with that she writes about in her books.

Cooper is the hunky contractor next door who was a bratty little 10-year-old during the summer she spent in Sweetbriar Cove. He left at one point to go to college but returned when his father had stomach cancer. Cooper decided to stick around even after his father passed away. He started a business renovating historical houses, and he has gutted the house next to Poppy as a personal project. She doesn't enjoy drilling and hammering super early in the morning, so she stomps over to confront him and (figuratively) drools on herself a little when she sees Cooper is now a beefcake. There's some insta-lusting between these two but he's been hurt before so he is cynical about true love. He acts like a complete jerk to Poppy about her profession on more than one occasion. I didn't think Cooper was a bad guy, but there's one scene where he embarrasses her in front of her agent and some other peers, and I wanted her to slap him. His stubbornness and refusal to talk to Poppy like an adult when he has doubts about their relationship made me want to pull my hair out a little bit. I thought she let him off too easily for this.

Meant to Be was a pretty standard small town romance. I liked it, but it's not something that will stick with me. In fact, I'm already having trouble recalling some of the details and I finished this just a week or so ago. It's not a bad book by any means; it's just that I've read so many just like it. Melody Grace is a solid writer, although I wasn't surprised when I looked up her bio after I finished this and discovered she's English. In my copy of the book (an ARC, so maybe this will be fixed) there were a couple of Britishisms that made me scratch my head.

I enjoyed the setting enough to keep future books in this series on my radar. (I think I've guessed who is paired up next, but we shall see!)

What do you get when you have a romance novelist who won't settle for anything less than true love and a guy who's pretty much given up on love? Another outstanding book from Melody Grace, that's what you get! I love the chemistry between Poppy and Coop, as with the couples in Melody Grace's worlds, the interactions between the main characters are always hot and sexy, sometimes intense, sometimes relaxed and playful, sweet with the right amount of emotion mixed in. There were times when I wanted to reach through my e-reader and give Coop a good shake to help him get his head on straight, but that's to be expected when they're both shying away from love. But when they finally come to the realization about their feelings for each other? It's a beautiful thing. Ms. Grace has managed to bring us yet another start to a fantastic new series and I will be eagerly awaiting the future books for this series.

Melody Grace has captured the art of writing light, sweet romances. She has refined her craft and Meant to Be is no exception. First off, can we just take a moment to admire the beauty of that cover because it is stunning. Moving along, I loved the names Cooper and Poppy, two unique names that I have rarely crossed in the romance world. I found their romance to be light-hearted and fast but sometimes, that is the way love is. Cooper has baggage and insecurities and it was nice for once to see a male struggling to find love while the female waited around for him to get it together.

While the story was nice, I would like to see Melody Grace write something different. I would love to connect more emotionally with these characters but honestly, I will forget their names and this story within a hour or two of closing the book. Sometimes this isn't a bad thing but over the course of numerous novels, I would love to truly fall in love with characters and have me thinking about them long after I close the pages. I guess I want more; I find Poppy sweet and Cooper a little rough around the edges but I haven't built an emotional connection with these characters. I think that is my greatest disconnect here. So while I do enjoy a light-hearted, quick romance, I want to see more emotions, drama, and a true connection to these characters.

I'm not sure why I forgot to publish this review... but having just finished the 3rd book in the Sweetbriar Cove series, I was checking my review for one an two, and realized I hadn't published my review on the store. Here it is....

I am a huge Melody Grace fan so was delighted when she released a new series and this is a great start as she proves she is the queen of small beach town romances.

Our leading lady Poppy is such a spunky character she is just a joy and although a romance writer her actual love life is not great. Poppy's inner dialogue is fabulous and really makes this quite a different read. She knows our leading man Cooper from when they were young when he was always picking on her, but now that he has grown into a man, things have moved beyond the teasing...

Cooper is a typical alpha male, sexy as all get up but doesn't believe in love. Heartbroken once before means he believes all relationships are doomed. Poppy intrigues him, now that she has grown into a beautiful woman, he can't get her off of his mind.

Cooper & Poppy's connection when they reconnected started as a spark... but grew into something very hot. Even though there was an intense passion I enjoyed the banter between them. This was not a simple love there were are ups and downs, but they came out stronger asa couple in the end.

I truly enjoyed this book - plenty of laughter, passion & even some emotional tears. Solid 4 Stars.
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Poppy Somerville is a believer of happily ever afters, soulmates, and fairytale romance. In fact, she makes her living off of providing these things to others. As a romance writer, she has always stood firm in the ideals she promoted. She may not have had a life altering kind of love or been swept away with passion like in her books, but she knew that they were out there somewhere. When she breaks things off with her fiancé and flees to her Aunt's beach home in Sweetbriar Cove, she isn't so sure of anything anymore. Her doubts are causing an unfortunate case of writer's block, and she's hoping that a change of scenery and solitude will help her sort out her head.

Cooper Nicholson is the owner and contractor of the house next door, making an ungodly amount of racket from the moment she arrives. After storming over to give him a piece of her mind, she realizes that they are already well acquainted. During her summer visits as a child, he used to pick on her and call her pipsqueak to her everlasting annoyance. It seems he's going to continue his habit of ruffling her feathers as an adult as well.

Cooper has no animosity towards her, in fact he finds her pretty cute, if a bit delusional. As far as he's concerned, the type of love she writes about is unrealistic and misleading. The loss of his father and his mother's abandonment have left him bitter to the concept of love. But his main issue ended up being that he wasn't able to make his one serious relationship work. He laid all the blame for the break up on himself for years, simply because she told him that "A relationship shouldn't be so hard" before giving up on him. I can understand being hesitant to try again, but his self-recrimination didn't really make sense to me.

A reluctant attraction grows and moves towards flirtation. But she is just fresh from a broken engagement, and he's still hung up on the mistakes of his past. Not only that, but once her book is completed, she has no reason to remain in town. They tried keep their boundaries in place, but they soon found that things don't always work out as planned.

I could empathize with Poppy, I thought her struggle to have faith in her career after her failed engagement was a valid one. She also wasn't one to pity her own situation, she didn't lick her wounds for long before she was working to overcome her setback. Cooper was a bit gruff at first, but her influence soon softened him up and brought out his more affectionate side. I thought their drive-in date was really cute and really enjoyed their interactions with some of the townspeople.

Overall, I did like the first installment in the Sweetbriar Cove series, I just didn't love it. I'm used to some considerable heat and butterflies from this author and in this case I wasn't completely feeling the spark. Additionally, the conflict at the end left a little to be desired.

I will admit that these two had me feeling a tad underwhelmed. Despite my few frustrations, it was still a sweet little light read. And this new set of characters certainly intrigued me enough to follow future installments so I will be keeping the next in line on my radar.

Meant to Be Sweetbriar Cove Book 1
by Melody Grace
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The storyline is fantastic. Trust me on this one. Cooper Nicholson and Poppy Somerville are well written characters who makes me laugh and smile. Melody Grace has created a captivating story with fascinating characters that had my attention the entire story. Melody Grace is so creative and her characters are so alive. There is humor and romance with the characters! This is one of those stories that I will keep you up late reading because you can't put it down. Even as my eyes started to cross I couldn't stop reading until I finish this fantastic story. The story will keep you turning page after page until you finish it.Cooper Nicholson is gorgeous, strong, hard working and own's his business, but there is one thing about him, he doesn't believe in soul mates, he did believe in love once, but fate had other ideas. Poppy Somerville is a brave, feminine and strong woman, who seems to have it all, the life, the dream job, but but she is missing that spark she believes in love and happily-ever-after. This makes her romance novels win devoted readers and why she had to break off her engagement because she refused to settle for less than true love. Poppy decides her aunt’s beach cottage in Sweetbriar Cove, is where her writer’s block will end, but what she didn’t count on was the handsome, sexy contractor making so much noise next door. What two people are made for each other, Cooper and Poppy meet at the wrong or is it the right time. But their chemistry form and is too hot to ignore or resist. This is book 1 in this series and it can be read as stands alone. This book is a awesome start to great series. I am excited about this series and I can't wait to read the next book. WOW! I always love reading romance stories by Melody Grace and Cooper and Poppy's story is truly what makes romance. What a fantastic romance story with scorching hot and steamy parts that will make you fall for this couple. It's so fascinating. If you haven't read her other stories it's ok because they can each be read as a standalone but I can say you will be happy to read her other books. Again I didn't want to stop reading! I received a ACR copy from the publisher.
I voluntarily reviewed this book, because I love sharing my thoughts with my fellow readers!

I received an earc from the author for the purpose of honest review
I only have read one other of Grace’s books and enjoyed the cute fluffy romance she wrote. So when I saw that she was returning to the beachy small town romances that she built her brand on . It was a give me situation, plus that cover. It summed up what Grace’s novel is about.
Poppy Somerville is a romance writer and firm believer in happily ever afters. Her novels are perfect examples of the HEA fairytale romances she wants. She built her brand on those kind of stories. Her personal life is another story, whilst she believed in them. She never had the experience she writes about. She wants that and she just broken off her engagement as he isn’t the one true love.

She determined to find it and finished that dratted book that everyone is waiting for. As her roller coaster emotions are throwing her game and given her writers block There no better place then the beach home in Sweetbriar owned by her aunt. Peace and quite are the two things she just need and everything will work out all right. Well at least her book will be as she questioning her beliefs in HEA happening in real life.

Sweetbriar might have the answers if she ever gets some peace and quiet. As her Aunt next door neighbour has his own agenda and doesn’t involved dealing with the brunette who isn’t happy about the noise. Cooper is the anti Poppy. He doesn’t believe in shape or form in HEA or soul mates. He been burned bad and believes it unrealistic to find what Poppy writes and dreams about. Cooper is more interested in finishing the house . However Poppy is getting under his skin like she did when she was a child visiting in the summer.

He has no issue with the grown up version of Poppy aside from her questionable stances on love. Poppy is the same girl he remembers but she making him think about things he doesn’t want to think about which is driving him mad. The guilt of his past and the attraction to Poppy might just do him in and force him just to address the issues that have been eating away .

Meant to Be is the sweet cute fluffy type of romance on paper but there so much more to this book. Poppy being a romance writer is nothing new but I loved how Grace didn’t make her all sunshine and rainbows. She was struggling. She was loosing hope in herself to find true love and that her book may not be the one she wants to be. Grace the address the issues of the less glamorous side of things and I loved that. She didn’t make Poppy sit back and wallow. She moved on and was fighting for another day and to find what she wants.

As Cooper was a mess a times as he thought certain things. Poppy may had no reason to stick around after her book but he fought against trying to convince to stick and was unwilling at first to explore the sizzling attraction. He may be gruff but there was sweetheart underneath that all. He had issues and Poppy was the perfect person to show him that he could have what he once dreamed about.

Whilst not perfect, there is a lot to love about this sweet beach read. I enjoyed my first visit to Sweetbriar Cove and can’t wait to return

Poppy has been an avid reader since her childhood, and she has an unshakable faith in romance and happy-ever-afters. Or at least, she HAD an unshakable faith in them until she called off her own wedding a few weeks ago. Owen should have been the perfect man, but the more she thought about marrying him, the more she felt like the walls were closing in on her and that she would be trapped in a situation she didn't want to be in. She was content with Owen, but she didn't want to settle for just content. So now she finds herself on a plane from NY to MA to escape to her Aunt June's cottage on the Cape for a little peace and solitude and to find her writing mojo again. Oh, I forgot to mention: Poppy is a very successful romance author whose agent, editor and readers are all eagerly awaiting the final book in her popular trilogy. The only problem is that self-doubt has crept in and now she is suffering from a screaming case of writer's block as she wonders what she really knows about living happily ever after anyway.

When she finally arrives at her aunt's cottage exhausted and desperately in need of sleep after being awake almost 24 hours, she is horrified to hear the sounds of construction at the home next door at 7 am on a Sunday morning. Storming off to confront the source of the noise, she is stunned to come face to face with Cooper, a familiar face from childhood summers spent on the beach there who loved to taunt her relentlessly with gross creatures, slimy seaweed and annoying nicknames as a 10 year old boy. Suffice it to say Cooper is no longer an awkward boy but rather a really droolworthy man who could easily grace the cover of one of her novels. Unfortunately he still has an annoying habit of trying to make her angry it seems and he definitely doesn't buy into her belief in HEAs so they are immediately at odds again.

Coop had big dreams and a belief in the white picket fence future at one time, but one woman destroyed that all for him. Now he is known as Sweetbriar Cove's resident grumpy bachelor, and he has a unique talent for starting arguments with Poppy or putting down her work, effectively jamming his foot in his mouth time and again. Once he makes a conscious effort to stop being a jerk on a regular basis, the sparks start flying and he is actually the one to give Poppy the inspiration she needs to break through her writer's block. He makes some really sweet gestures and Poppy finds herself starting to fall for the man who inspires more passion in her than she has ever experienced in her life outside the pages of her books. But can Cooper find it in himself to believe he is worthy or capable of finding happiness after all?

Meant to Be is a great start to a new series from an author I have always enjoyed reading, and it packs a great mix of sweet, heat, and humor into the pages. I have to admit seeing a somewhat familiar local setting always gives me an added little bit of warm and fuzzy too! Sweetbriar Cove may be a fictional town, but I live within minutes of Cape Cod so the other towns and landmarks mentioned are all too familiar and invoke some great memories of summers past for me too. The small town feeling with everyone in each other's business was pretty amusing at times, and the supporting characters were well placed. I am looking forward to learning more about Cooper's friends Riley and Grayson, and I am thinking that Poppy's best friend Summer coming to visit in one of the upcoming books could be an interesting development. I can't wait to find out!

"Love was worth taking a risk on, no matter how easy it seemed, just to play it safe and settle for something less than The One
When I started reading Meant to Be I thought I'd found The One book for me. OMG! .... it has everything I like: music, couple with sharp dialogues, humor, incredible friends, drama, a lot of romance,hot scenes, book club, and the phrase that defines me:
"Her readers did not come to her looking for the real world, they wanted an escape from it."

I think exactly like this when I read a book ... I want the world of dreams and hearts in love ..... And this book has it and a little more. He talks about forgiving itself, second chances, not messing up a heart with the wrong person, aside from the many touches of humor that gave light to the plot.
I was already happy to give 6 glorious stars to Meant to Be when something happened ... by the way ... when the guy happened ...
Let me explain.

The book tells the story of sweetheart novelist Poppy Somerville who was about to marry Owen when she realizes he is not her Meant to Be . She breaks the engagement and the fun Aunt June offers her beach's house so that Poppy can heal her sadness in not finding true love and her writing block.

Upon arriving at the house, Poppy who is mad to sleep is surprised by unbearable noises and will complain to the noisy neighbor.
Upon arriving on the scene, she comes across nothing less than Cooper, a boy who has plagued one of her vacations in the past. Cooper is not any boy today, he is a man,a hot , delicious man, specialized in reforms old houses and does not mind at all to disturb Poppy's peace because he has an agenda to fulfill. Here I can not help but remember that clip from Fifth Harmony, Work from Home with those hot and horny guys ..... hahahahahaha ..... then I created my image of Cooper. OK?

Their first clashes are epic, hilarious and full of sarcasm. Obviously this also resulted in a strong attraction that they try at all costs to avoid as she has just broken an engagement and he has had his heart broken once and does not believe in true love.

"The Queen of Hearts has not found her perfect soulmate yet."

and neither him.....

I was loving the book and when I got halfway I started to fear what would separate the couple until it reached the point of conflict. Cooper has this trauma with an ex ... I understand .... but he suddenly switches from water to wine and starts getting thick with Poppy and mistreats her a lot. I wanted to get into the book and help Mackenzie ( Cooper's friend) get a good beating in him shaped body. It was the outcome of this conflict that irritated me most and made me take 3 stars but as i loved the beggining and the ending was super cute, I returned one and rated it as a 4 star book ....

It turned out it did not become The One for me, but somehow I had a lot of fun with all the characters and I'm already looking forward to Summer's book ....

Highly recommend.
Kisses, Myl

This review is for an ARC of the novel. My thoughts are non-biased and is a true reflection of my opinion of the book.

The other day I was feeling quite down in the dumps. I really wasn't feeling much of anything, but the desire for the weekend to hurry and the workday to end. While I was at my lunch break I decided to read my ARC of this book. To my surprise it was a really effective pick me-up for my attitude. It was exactly what I needed to read at the time. A sweet, uncomplicated, no-cliff hanger, romantic read that was entertaining. I simply enjoyed it.

I like to review via checklist, so here it goes.

1) Did I like the female lead character? Yes, I did. I saw a little bit of every woman in the female, Poppy. She was likable and was not one prone to extreme mood swings/indecision. She literally could have been anyone you know. You could see as much/little of yourself in her as you wish and still like her.That was a addition of 1 star.

2) Did I like the male lead character? Not as much as the female, but yes, I did enjoy him. He was the more drama inclined of the couple. However, I had no problem for hoping that Cooper would get his poop in a group and figure his own mind out. That was an addition of 1/2 star.

3) Did I like the setting and could I see this as the true beginning of a new series? Yes, easily. Ms. Grace gave us a simple backdrop of any small town that you could easily use your imagination to picture. There were the ubiquitous nosy (but meaning well) neighbors, the male lead's (hot, single) friends that would serve as the next series heroes, the introduction of enough new females to make the series premise interesting, and the wonderful, eccentric family relative. Many series starts out with the author throwing in so many characters that you can't keep up with them. Happily Ms. Grace shows the perfect amount of restraint. That was an addition of 1/2 star.

4) Was there any ex's mentioned? Yes, but Ms. Grace used them to the novel's advantage by not having them be bitter, interfering ex's with over the top drama. What made it work? That this plot point was handled in a adult fashion (not hair pulling, police involved, etc.). That was an addition of 1 star.

5) Was the ending believable? Yes, it was. It was the ending that made sense and makes you want to read the next series because you are invested in how the characters are growing together and you want to see how they end up. That was the addition of 1 star.

So, a solid 4 star read that I would read again. Isn't that what defines a good read?

Meant to Be is the start of the Sweetbriar Cove series and what a sweet start. Poppy Somerville is a romance novel writer where happily ever after is the norm. Unfortunately, her personal life is not heading for that HEA ending. She has recently broken her engagement off, just weeks before the wedding, because she realized he wasn’t her true love. Poppy’s Aunt, June insists that she come spend some time at her beach cottage in Sweetbriar Cove. Since she was struggling with a major case of writer’s block, she decides that a change of scenery may just be what she needs to finish her latest book. She just wasn’t counting on the scenery being the contractor next door.
Cooper Nicholson has had his heart broken, now he does not believe in the happily ever after. It just isn’t for him until he meets the new neighbor. She is a HEA romance writer, which is all the things he doesn’t believe in, but as they end up spending time together, he is beginning to see things differently. They even met twenty years ago as kids when Poppy was last in Sweetbriar Cove which seems like a romance novel story, but even with all these changes in his life, will he able to get over his past hurts and risk things with Poppy? As kids that one summer, Cooper drove Poppy nuts with all his pranks, but now they are adults, each with their own demons. Can they slay them ? Can it be HEA?
The residence of Sweetbriar Cove are a wonderful group of people that know everything that goes on in the town. The gossip mill is always going, but without it some great laughs would have been missed. Aunt June is a blast and she just added to the laughs. Poppy struggled with her writer’s block that you could feel and the way it was broken was awesome. You could relate to the characters and it felt as if you were there with them experiencing all the emotions.
Right from the start, this book pulls you in and it was difficult to put down even though I sort of knew what was going to happen next. There were a few twists in the story that I didn’t expect to happen, so that made me turn pages to find out how it would all come together. I loved how the story didn’t move Poppy and Cooper’s relationship too fast. Of course, there were plenty of things that were predictable, but it did not take away from the story with the way the author wrote it.
Unfortunately, there were a few times that I felt like the flow of the story was slightly off and that is why I am not able to give it the 5 stars that it could be. I was glad to find that the story wasn’t completely predictable and that my predictions were not correct. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series as the town of Sweetbriar Cove feels like a second home and I want to know what the others there are up to.

MEANT TO BE is the first book in the new Sweetbriar Cove series by author Melody Grace, and I am in love. A huge fan of Melody's Beachwood Bay/Callahan and Oak Harbor series, I was super-excited to see that she was starting with a whole new set of books. Although this is just the first book, it's full of Melody's signature themes of community, friendship, and love, and is filled with characters that I'd want to spend time with, quirky, caring, and fun to be around.

I love Poppy. She's going through what I feel like all authors must. Prolific in her life as a romance author, she's finally experiencing the dreaded writer's block, at the same time that she questions her own life and whether or not happily ever afters do exist. A retreat to her aunt's cottage in lovely Sweetbriar Cove is just what the doctor ordered. Except that that darned block is going nowhere, and, to top things off, there's that darned Cooper Nicholson, working on the house right next door. Cooper was Poppy's childhood nemesis, and things aren't looking much better in the 'gosh, he's annoying' department. Except that now Cooper is a lot hotter and sexier than then Cooper, and keeps turning up like the proverbial bad penny.

Cooper. Mmm, Cooper. He's sexy, he's self-employed, he's settled. What's not to like? Poppy's arrival upsets his normal, though, and he's not quite ready for all of the things that she makes him feel. Because, attraction and friendship, he's all in. But, happily ever after? That's for other people. Until a certain romance writer makes him question everything that he thinks he knows about relationships and love.

This book was like a treat for me. I devoured it from cover to cover, like it was my favorite dark chocolate. I am absolutely head-over-heels for Poppy, Cooper, and the rest of the folks from Sweetbriar Cove, and I sort of wish that I could drop in and hang out with them. I thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated that Melody, herself a writer of romance novels, wrote Poppy as a woman that isn't sure whether she believes that the sort of love that she's writing about is possible in real life. I mean, talk about a crisis of belief. And, as a firmly avowed lover of the HEA, I couldn't have been happier that Poppy and Cooper became a vivid example that it is possible when the right one comes along.

MEANT TO BE is an easy 5-star read for me, and left me already hungry for the next book in the series. There are plenty of folks that need their story, and I can't wait to see who Melody writes about next. Sweetbriar Cove is one of my new favorite places, and I can't recommend enough that you add this one to your TBR. You'll be glad that you did.

Do you believe in true love? The sweep you off your feet, swoony, happy ever after kind? Romance writer Poppy Somerville does even though she hasn’t been able to find it. Not wanting to settle for less than, she breaks off her engagement and takes refuge in her aunt’s home in the small and peaceful town of Sweetbriar Cove to see if she can shake the writer’s block that fell upon her when she got engaged. But can she find inspiration with the earsplitting noise going on next door?

Contractor Cooper Nicholson has a deadline to meet and shouldn’t be interested in accommodating the cute girl he picked on during a long ago summer turned into a beautiful writer. Especially when she has her head in soul-mate clouds while his broken heart can’t believe in them. But the attraction between them is too hard to ignore and as they get to know the grown up versions of themselves they discover that happily ever after isn’t just a fictional thing.

There’s something very satisfying about reading books that are set in small towns where the author effectively gives readers graphic details that allow the imagination to soar. I could easily picture Sweetbriar Cove, smell the ocean and imagine the people who inhabit it. On top of this, Melody Grace provides a sweet and sexy story with a charming heroine and hero with a bitter and jerkish outer shell but thoughtful and swoony middle.

Cooper and Poppy do not start off on the right foot. He’s a cynic who mocks romance books and is making way too much noise for her liking, and even though he finds her attractive she’s just too impractical and is only in town for a few weeks. She just ended a serious relationship and he can’t let go of the past nor his misplaced guilt.

They just didn’t make sense together but their attraction is palpable, so when their banter turns flirty and Cooper decides to be thoughtful, sexy lines get blurred and their relationship grows with cute dates and a little push from the meddling and well-meaning townsfolk. But can Poppy and Cooper find a middle ground?

This is a nice, feel good escape I’d love to read more about, especially Riley, Cooper’s rich bartender friend.

Meant to Be is book #1 in the The Sweetbriar Cove series by Melody Grace. It is a sweet and light standalone, contemporary romance, told from both point of view with a happy ending.

Very good!!! My first read by Melody Grace was so wonderful & so much fun to read I can't wait to read the rest of this series when it comes out. Her writing is thoughtful, whimsical at times & mainly downright funny with the sarcastic & sometimes comical characters she's collected for her Sweetbriar series. Poppy's character is sweet & funny but a little sad as well, because being a well published romance writer you'd think her life was all romance by her books. Unfortunately Poppy hasn't found that one true love yet & coming off a broken engagement she's trying to reset her life & get rid of her writers block that's stopping her from writing the last book in her best selling series. Cooper doesn't believe in happily ever after anymore after a failed engagement, but the architect & contractor does know how to renovate an old house, which is how they meet at 6a.m after Poppy has just gotten to bed after taking a red eye from New York to Sweetbriar Cape Cod. First two meetings not so great but that doesn't mean they didn't make an impression on each other, as well as their third meeting when she plays poker with Cooper & his two friends Riley & Grayson & ends up cleaning up on an unsuspecting, arrogant Cooper. With the growing attraction between them & all of Sweetbriar pushing them together how could they refuse. The not so subtle hints from Mackenzie & Poppy's aunt June's friends Franny & Debra, as well as Riley & Grayson give Cooper the push he needs & the happy starts until it suddenly stops. Cooper can't get beyond his past failure as he sees it & figures he'll save Poppy the inevitable heartbreak by ending things before they go too far. Too bad it's already gone there. I laughed out loud at the untimely arrival of aunt June back from her vacation, as well as the not so subtle flirting by Franny & Debra & aunt June towards Cooper. I felt bad for Poppy's ex fiancé when he showed up looking to get back together even though he knew it was over & for Cooper when he runs into his now happily married & new mom ex fiancée. I loved Mackenzie's form of anger management & aunt June's thoughts that homemade soup heals all. This was a wonderful story & I enjoyed it immensely. Definitely recommend this book.

As always Melody Grace has delivered an enjoyable read and a start to a new series that has given us some promising characters to come !! I have always enjoyed this author because she can give you a story that warms your heart , spices up the sheets and has some minimal drama. You can always count on a bit of humor and great supporting characters. Although I call the story lines simple with an easy flow that does not mean they are boring at all , it is a great compliment because it means that she is getting her point across and not driving us readers crazy doing it. It is nice to have a go to author that you can count on for a kind of stress free read !!

Poppy is a romance author who has yet to find that true love in real life. She is currently hiding away to write the next book in her series on the heels of calling off her wedding to her boyfriend of a couple years. Many were surprised yet those few that really know her could tell she was not complete with Owen. Staying in Mass. on Cape Cod she plans to relax and unwind while getting her drive for writing back. Her aunt is on a cruise so for now she has the house to herself which is perfect for the peace and quiet she craves after living in New York for so long. She is not expecting an annoying construction crew to be banging away on the house next door and the head of the annoying crew to be none other than a boy from summers past that always had a knack for driving her crazy !! You know how this goes - they come face to face , they are amazed at how each other has come into themselves yet they don't want to admit that out loud because their first encounter after all those years was not amazing !! Cooper has no faith in the fairy tale life Poppy writes about therefore he blows his attraction off. When the pull is inescapable we see just how hot their chemistry can be and we quickly fall in love with Cooper and Poppy as a couple. Cooper's past issues with love and Poppy's current situation of heading back to New York poses a few issues in their new found relationship. Will they be able to overcome or will they end up as just a quick fling leaving scars on each others hearts ??

Meant to Be by Melody Grace is the first book in the Sweetbriar Cove Series and it’s sweet with a side of sassy! I cannot wait to read the rest of the Sweetbriar Cove Series!

Poppy Somerville is a successful romance writer who has a major case of writer’s block! How can she, write about love, when her love life is in shambles? She’s just left her fiancé, two weeks prior to the their wedding, because she felt something was missing…she wanted more than what her and Owen had. Now with an impending deadline for her next book she has yet to start writing looming over her, she heads to her aunts cottage by the Cape in Sweetbriar Cove. As she tries to sleep after her red eye flight, she’s awoken to racket from next door. She stomps over to lay down the law for the noise at the ungodly hour, only to meet her tormentor from the summer she was in Sweetbriar Cove when she was 10…Cooper Nicholson!! This is not the same Cooper though. Oh no, this Cooper is HOT with a side of arrogance! Damn him!

Cooper Nicholson cannot believe how gorgeous the nerdy girl who always had her head in a book when she was 10 turned out to be! Too bad she’s all wrapped up in that “Meant to Be” and “Love” nonsense. Cooper has “been there, done that” before and won’t do it again.
As these two butt heads at every turn, their argumentative banter soon turns to sweet murmurs. Add to the fact that their chemistry is spine tingling explosive…something neither of them has experienced before. Soon, Poppy has her writing mojo back and is writing up a storm. But what happens when she’s done her book? Her life is back in New York. Or will she give it all up to see what “could be” with Cooper? Cooper’s last relationship left him scarred emotionally. Is he willing to let the past go to see what his future can hold with Poppy?

A sweet and spicy romance that is sure to leave you enamored from beginning to end. The witty banter between Poppy and Cooper will have you laughing out loud and the descriptive scenes will leave you breathless! A definite must read for those who like a sweet and sassy woman who makes the “scorned bachelor” believe in love again!

I voluntarily received an ARC for my honest review.

A fantastic start to a new series!!! I have loved Melody Grace's writing since Untouched and with Meant to Be, I fell in love with the small beach town romances all over again!!!

Poppy was imaginative and spunky. Her character was one that brought happiness with her and people couldn't help but be drawn to her. I loved how real Poppy was. She is a romance writer but her actual love life is not that spectacular. Poppy's honesty about wanting to find the right one for her was refreshing. She knew Cooper from when she was little and he was always picking on her, but now that he has grown into a man, she can't stop thinking about him. Poppy's inner dialogue is one of my favorites; she was funny, hopeful & at times, so sad that I felt like my heart was breaking right along with hers.

Cooper...he is sexy and doesn't believe in love. At one point, he thought he found his forever, but then he got his heart broken and ever since then, he hasn't had a real relationship; until Poppy. He liked her when they were kids but now that she has grown into a beautiful woman, he can't get her off of his mind. I understood Cooper's standing on love since what happened to him was heartbreaking, but at the same time, I loved that his character was changing with Poppy's help and he didn't even realize it. Cooper was definitely one of my favorite male lead characters by Melody Grace, just because he was so different. He didn't believe in love, but his heart beat for Poppy, he was closed off, but with Poppy he was open and etc.

Cooper & Poppy had a connection as soon as their characters reconnected and it started as just a spark, but then throughout the book, it grew into an inferno. The passion between these two was off the charts hot and I loved the banter between them. I swear, they verbal sparring was just foreplay for them!! Like any other couple, there are ups and downs, but it is how you navigate through those times that really shows the strength of the couple, and that was definitely the case with Cooper & Poppy. I truly enjoyed this book; it made me laugh, swoon & shed some tears. Melody Grace's writing is spectacular and I cannot wait for the second book in this series!!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I have to say, I straight up liked this book. It was a great escape that dealt with issues that we all confront every day. There were no serial killers running loose, there was no overly dramatic angst. It was a quietly lovely book that was also hot when it needed to be. From the very beginning, I felt a kinship with the heroine because, after a massively failed relationship, she was asking herself the same questions that I asked myself after a massively failed relationship. I absolutely identified with her. I also liked her because she was sensible but a little quirky and not at all annoying. She was absolutely loveable, as well as likeable. Even though she had doubts about her future, she knew her own mind; for example, she felt bad for the way her previous relationship ended but she didn't let her guilt over that dictate how she handled things going forward. She was strong but not abrasive, and I really liked that about her. I also liked that she was a dreamer to who had her feet on the ground, and didn't let anyone's a-hole behaviour affect her dreams. But Cooper. Ah, Cooper. He is not book boyfriend material, I'm sad to say, and that's why I'm giving this book 4 stars instead of 5. I really liked the rapport that Poppy and Cooper had; it gave me the warm fuzzies, to be honest. But I thought that Cooper was a wuss when it came to going all in with Poppy and when it came to dealing with his own past. I don't want to say more because I'll give too much away but I thought his character was weak and in the end, I didn't find him attractive at all. I thought Poppy was such a great girl and deserved someone better. But I respected her choices so I let her be :-) Also, Cooper knew what was up in the bedroom (or not in the bedroom, wink wink) so he got some points on that score.

A final note: I thought the supporting characters were great. I liked the friends that these 2 had - they were a great support system who really wanted the best for their friends and did their best to ensure they got it. Oh, that we all had friends that had our backs like that.

So, overall, I really liked this book; even though Cooper didn't end up endearing himself to me, Poppy brought it off in great style. I'm really glad I got to meet her, and I hope she pops up again in the rest of the series. And I look forward to seeing what becomes of the other characters.

Stars 4.5

I always find Melody's stories to be sweet and wonderful and Meant to Be is no different, it's fabulous. Once again Melody you have written a book for me to get lost in and I truly enjoyed it. I just love Cooper and Poppy. I always love reading love stories and Melody Grace writes such wonderful romance stories. Poppy is a romance writer with writers block who just broke off her wedding 2 weeks before the big day. So she takes off and goes to her Aunts cottage to get away and find her words again. Cooper is a local and he is remodeling the cottage right next door. So of course the noise causes some issues. Cooper remembers her from when she spent some time as a little girl staying with her Aunt. Cooper and Poppy soon discover some romance but will it be enough for Cooper and Poppy or will things get in the way...well I guess you will have to go and one click this fabulous story to find out what happens with them, sorry I don't spoil books. I'm a true believer in letting you know that I loved the book and think you should read it without telling you everything that happens. I mean if I give you play by play of his great book why would you need to read it for yourself? I loved it and I think you will too. So go and grab Meant to Be and get started reading a very happy romance book and enjoy it. It's nice to have a love story that is truly a great read and that's exactly what you get with Meant to Be by Melody Grace. Thank you so much Melody for a lovely book. I enjoyed every single page! I love Poppy and Cooper.
I highly recommend this book, its great and I know you will love it just as much as me. I think instead of reading my glowing review you should just go ahead and get Meant to Be, you will fall into the pages!
Enjoy and Happy reading!!!

~ Patti

*voluntarily and honestly reviewed an ARC I received from the author*

OH MY GOD. I'm in tears over here with the way things ended. All good things, of course, but goodness. I should start charging for toilet paper cause I have no tissues.

Poppy and Cooper know each other from childhood when she'd visit town over the summer. Fast-forward to the present, and she's a famous author who writes HEAs and encourages her readers to look and fight for that true love. Poppy, as optimistic as she is with the idea of romance, is the total opposite of our dear jaded Cooper, who fought and lost on the battlefield, and now just tries to get by without becoming too grumpy. Until Poppy comes to town to write her latest installment.

I really enjoyed their hate-first-love-last dynamic, that type of thing always gets me, mainly because it's not just instant attraction that they build on, but an eventual level of mutual respect that soon turns into something much more promising. The small town was great and I loved how everyone played a part in making it more like home while adding the humor that had me laughing out loud when it came to Poppy's life being a constant topic for discussion. Cooper was a complicated guy that I wanted to strangle in the end and if I had to be picky, there were maybe less than a handful of things that I could pick on, but I won't, because everything else honestly outweighs it. Like, I'm in love. With this.

As a new reader to this author, I'll definitely be checking out the rest of this series and possibly anything else Grace has to offer us readers. This book was fun, engaging, adorable, heart-breaking, hot and left me with all the right feels. Definite recommend.

I am generally not a huge fan of small town romances. I like my love stories to have a little more angst, a touch more darkness, sometimes a lot a more steam, but Melody Grace's books just connect with me. I love everything about these little communities she creates and the people she fills it with.

Meant to Be focuses on Poppy, a romance writer, who is fleeing a relationship and looking for a little R&R. She seeks refuge at her aunt's house. What is most admirable about Poppy is her unwavering faith in love. She fully believes in the love she writes about, and she is courageous enough to go searching for it, refusing to settle for anything less than earth shattering chemistry. She is a woman who lives what she writes.

Cooper is a hometown boy who had big goals, but ended up back home. Like most hometown boys, Cooper just has this charm. You sucked in by the thoughtfulness, the chivalry, and, in this case, that southern accent. I swear when he said Darlin' my insides melted. Cooper, though, doesn't believe in the romance, the soulmates, the can't live without you feelings. He wants to, readers want it for him, and we spend most of the novel just hoping he will get it together before he loses it all.

This story is incredibly sweet with just a dash of steam. It makes the readers want to move to a small beach town where everyone knows you. This is the gift that Melody Grace has. She makes these towns come alive, and the people in it become like your family. You just want to pack up and find this place and settle in. Her books just provide pure comfort, like coming home.

Arc received in exchange for an honest review

Poppy just broke things off with her fianc� and heads to her Aunt's beach home. She's a romance writer who doesn't know if she believes in romance anymore. She's suffering from major writers block. Cooper owns and is renovating the house next door. Due to all the racket Poppy storms over and raises hell with Cooper. Turns out they knew each other as kids and he loved to pick on her. Still does lol. Cooper as well has had a hard time of love and relationships. He's not sure he believes as well. They both slowly start to fall for each other but both are broken from past relationships. They also know that Poppy isn't sticking around town. She's just there to get her book completed. The book is a good summer read but Cooper is a little bit immature striking out to hurt Poppy before she can hurt him. Reviewed for Headtripping Books by Amy

Favorite Quotes:

Quinn was a force of nature who let nothing stand in her way. It made her a great agent, but her love life was more like a crime scene: full of bad accidents and tape reading ‘do not pass.’

God, don’t ma’am me. I’ve got another ten years of ‘miss,’ I swear.

There are seven stages to grief. First, sweatpants.

It reminds me of the time my second husband was cheating… I took everything he owned and hurled it out the second-floor window… When he came back from that hussy’s place, it was all right there on the sidewalk in ruins.

My Review:

I was thoroughly entertained with Meant To Be, Poppy and Cooper’s sweet and sexy tale. I was delighted when I noticed the #1 in the title, and am already looking forward to numerous repeat trips to Sweetbriar Cove to witness the pairing off of a town full of “scruffy and gorgeous” men. Written from a third person POV, the storyline was relevant and relatable while stocked with appealing and interesting characters. Ms. Grace’s writing style was relaxing and easy to follow, yet also emotive, heart squeezing, and engaging. I was quickly drawn in by the well-detailed storytelling and enjoyed these sweet and clever characters, although there was a period that I wanted to give Cooper a few swift kicks to his back pockets. My favorite character was the lovely Aunt June, of course, it has nothing to do with the fact that she could be my clone. I am hoping Ms. Grace will bestow Aunt June with her own book or at least feature the witty and clever cougar prominently in all future installments.

Sometimes, it's nice to read a love story where you pretty much know what to expect and simply enjoy it for what it is: a romance with a guaranteed happy ending. I really liked Poppy, even though I wasn't a fan of her ending her engagement a couple of weeks before she was supposed to walk down the aisle. She had a good head on her shoulders and a heart that held on to the ideal of true love. Cooper, on the other hand, was abrasive and seemed to go out of his way, at times, to get on Poppy's nerves. He does, of course, show the more caring side of him, and even though people in Sweetbriar Cove admit that he's somewhat of a gruff, pain in the behind, he was someone you could count on and someone who wouldn't think twice about helping one out whether he was asked to or not.

I liked the pacing of the sort and the transition that Poppy and Cooper's relationship went through. They're surrounded by a well-meaning albeit nosy group of residents who appeared to be intent on a happily-ever-after happening for the two. There is one sticking point in the story, though, and it had to do with Cooper being hard-headed about making amends with Poppy, refusing to listen to even his closest friends. It's what changed his mind that had my eyebrow cocking in disbelief. I mean, come on! You wouldn't listen to anyone else except that one person? Really? Ugh! I was disappointed in the man! But yes, we still get the happy ending and Poppy and Cooper do have a more than hopeful outlook on their future together. All things considered, Meant to Be gets four stars. ♥

-------------- reviewed for 2OCC Reviews --------------

Meant to be was an incredible sweet read that focused on a small tow romance between two characters that knew each other as children. I found that this was a sweet read that Melody Grace done a good job with making the story flow really well together.

I really enjoyed the character Poppy because she had a lot of the insecurities and worries that I think a lot of people have in their life. I found that this made me really connect with the character.

Cooper was the sexy male character within the story that I instantly loved from the moment that we were introduced to the character. He was a really caring guy that did a lot of thoughtful and sweet things for Poppy. I loved the way that he helped her to start her writing for her next book wen she was experiencing writers block.

Meant to be is about romance writer Poppy going to the small town she spent a summer with her aunty as a child. She meets Cooper when she is trying to sleep and cant due to the construction work of the house next door. When she goes to yell at the construction worker about the noise she meets Cooper after not seeing him since her summer at Sweetbriar Cove as a child.

Melody Grace has written a sweet and light romance story that has minimal drama throughout it. I enjoyed all the characters throughout the story and cant wait to see which characters are going to be in the series next. I definitely recommend this story to anyone wanting a sweet read.

Five Amazing Stars

I was so absolutely thrilled to receive this first series Sweetbriar Cove. Written by newest exciting author, Melody Grace. Another marvellous new romance that I have so thoroughly enjoyed.

Poppy Somerville just adored reading romance books most of all. That was most definitely her most favourite pastime she did growing love. She in fact was the most passionate romantic. Now after she suddenly break up from her wedding to her fiancé she quickly escapes. Whilst she heads still hoping that she will evidently find her true love.

As she travel a passenger shares a novel for her to read. This lady, not realising that Poppy is the actual writer of the book. It was this wonderful story that she love and remembered so. vividly. It was such a major success for her writing ability and one she will never forget. Now it was time for Poppy to escape her worries of the world and stay at her Aunties place in Cape Cod.

I simply adored this marvellous book so very much. Such the most thrilling romance and so beautifully written. Such a wonderful series I'm so excited to read more. A total winner it was!!

* I recommend this book to everyone.

3.5 Stars

**ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**

What a sweet, yet frustrating story. This wasn't exactly the type of book I enjoy reading as the ones I read are dark, gritty, sort of in your face types. This particular read was a bit to cutesy for my tastes with the perfect town, perfect townspeople, rejected but understanding fiancés...etc. Still it was an entertaining read and while not my kind, I enjoyed it.

The characters were a bit bland and very predictable. Poppy, much like her cute name, was sort of living on a cloud, believing in unicorns, rainbows and the like. She was sweet and caring but a little too naive, still a likable character. She loved unconditionally which could be devastating to someone in her position, being positive about love and HEA, but she gave her all even when she knew she shouldn't.

Cooper was cool but silly in his ideas of love. Whereas Poppy looked forward to loving wholeheartedly, Cooper was the complete opposite except he had no reason to be. At least no reason that made sense. He was angry and bitter over an old breakup, but in my opinion there have been worse breakups and people move on quite happily. That he still held a grudge years later over a very simple breakup was just ludicrous and quite frankly frustrating.

Overall as mentioned before, it was an enjoyable read. Very sweet, cute and frustrating but likable nonetheless.

Ever since Poppy sneaked her first drugstore romance read she thought that there was someone for everyone. She broke off her engagement to Owen two weeks before her wedding. Poppy's aunt June offered her the use of her house so she can get her writing done, while she was away on a cruise. Poppy arrived at her aunts house and was getting ready to go back to bed, when there was a lot of hammering and sawing. She got upset and went over to set the person straight for making so much noise, that's when she saw Cooper again.
Poppy is a romance writer, she is having a writers block. "Pipsqueak." Was nerdy as a kid, always had her nose in a book. Cooper called Poppy "Pipsqueak." He owns his own company, he remodels old houses. Summer is a chef at a high end restaurant, Poppy's friend. Quinn is Poppy's friend and agent. Riley is Cooper's friend, owns his own bar and got his own Karaoke Machine. Mackenzie wants to see Cooper happy, became friends with Poppy. Has her own Pottery studio. Obsessed with coffee, has a book group.
This is the first book in the Sweetbriar Cove series. I loved how well this book is written and how I was drawn into the story from the first page. I loved how well I felt very connected to the characters and how well this book is developed. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

>Book review – Meant to Be: Sweetbriar Cove

>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the first in the Sweetbriar series and ends in an HEA. Poppy is a romance author without much romantic experience. She also is suffering from writer’s block and returns to a childhood summer retreat to try and write her book. Cooper is the boy that drove Poppy crazy. He is all grown up now and very negative on his feelings about love. The plot is a typical romantic plot. The characters meet, get mad at each other, fall for each other, break up and make up. The characters are far from typical, however.

>Cooper honestly feels he will ruin anyone who loves him. His journey to the realization that he can love and receive love in return is unusual for the male character. The small town’s quirky characters keep the story funny and moving along. Some of the characters have mysteries in their pasts, which I am sure are set ups for future books in the series. The book club that can’t agree on a book to read was especially funny.

>This story is filled with a little misunderstanding, but a lot of heart. The book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving the story 5 stars. The read was quick and the story was heartwarming.

Poppy walked out on a life she knew she wanted but had with the wrong man. Escaping to the small town of Sweetbriar to hole up in her Aunt June's home while she was away sounded like the best plan of all. Not to mention she was on a deadline to complete the last book in her bestselling book series.

Cooper was the epitome of bachelor. By day, he restored old home to their former glory and by night, he went through his fair share of women when the tourist season hit the small town. Everyone knew everyone's business in Sweetbriar and that never stopped them from butting into Cooper's.

Poppy and Cooper butted heads at every turn. She was the hopeless romantic and he believed she was giving false hope to those who read her books. That no one found their soulmates and lived happily ever after. Somewhere along the lines they started to fall for one another. Obstacles dared to get in their way, but in the end, they found their way back to one another.

This book is the epitome of happily ever after romance. The setting in a small town, the boy who knew the girl when they were younger and grew up to love again. It was written well and I loved the fact that the main character was a romance writer. Great read.

I voluntarily read this ARC for an honest review~

Poppy Somerville called off her wedding with only two weeks away from The I do's. Poppy needs a place to getaway from everything and everyone. Poppy's Aunt June offers Poppy the run of her place in Cape Cod for however long she wants it. All Poppy wants to do is crash and sleep the day away but when a loud screeching noise interrupts her beauty sleep. She needs to know why? She never expected to find Cooper Nicholson next door working on the neighboring house. Cooper Nicholson never expected a blast from his past to show at the home he's working. Both Cooper and Poppy receive shocks at seeing one another after all these years. Their attraction to one another is mutual but neither of them want to act on it. Will they find the path to love in each other? Your answers await you in Meant to Be.

This story truly made me realize how lucky I am to be married to my hubby. We've known each other 22 years and will celebrate Our 22nd Wedding Anniversary in July. The phrase "Meant to Be" is truly my life and this book as well. My clearest thought is run to your next bookstore or favorite ebook retailer and make this book yours.

Any book that breaks my heart and makes me cry is an automatic 5 star book. The quality of writing is excellent, the plot was well thought through and the pace of the story was good. I had 40 minutes of the book left when I should have been switching my kindle off and going to sleep .... the book won easily, it was gripping and had characters I felt invested in.

Poppy and Cooper were both well developed, genuine and likable characters, with an amazing chemistry. Their interactions were believable, felt real and best of all they were normal, imperfect people. I liked that the book was written from both main characters POV, I find it easier to empathise with them and understand their actions.

The story felt like coming home, it was comfortable, warm and loving. Cooper's belief that he wasn't good enough to love tore me to pieces, and I loved him despite his stupid decisions. He was such a charmer but so broken underneath it all. I really loved the supporting characters in this book and am looking forward to future stories where they get their HEA.

I highly recommend buying and reading this book - you won't regret it.

Do you believe in true love? The sweep you off your feet, swoony, happy ever after kind? Romance writer Poppy Somerville does even though she hasn’t been able to find it. Not wanting to settle for less than, she breaks off her engagement and takes refuge in her aunt’s home in the small and peaceful town of Sweetbriar Cove to see if she can shake the writer’s block that fell upon her when she got engaged. But can she find inspiration with the earsplitting noise going on next door?

Contractor Cooper Nicholson has a deadline to meet and shouldn’t be interested in accommodating the cute girl he picked on during a long ago summer turned into a beautiful writer. Especially when she has her head in soul-mate clouds while his broken heart can’t believe in them. But the attraction between them is too hard to ignore and as they get to know the grown up versions of themselves they discover that happily ever after isn’t just a fictional thing.

There’s something very satisfying about reading books that are set in small towns where the author effectively gives readers graphic details that allow the imagination to soar. I could easily picture Sweetbriar Cove, smell the ocean and imagine the people who inhabit it. On top of this, Melody Grace provides a sweet and sexy story with a charming heroine and hero with a bitter and jerkish outer shell but thoughtful and swoony middle.

Cooper and Poppy do not start off on the right foot. He’s a cynic who mocks romance books and is making way too much noise for her liking, and even though he finds her attractive she’s just too impractical and is only in town for a few weeks. She just ended a serious relationship and he can’t let go of the past nor his misplaced guilt.

They just didn’t make sense together but their attraction is palpable, so when their banter turns flirty and Cooper decides to be thoughtful, sexy lines get blurred and their relationship grows with cute dates and a little push from the meddling and well-meaning townsfolk. But can Poppy and Cooper find a middle ground?

This is a nice, feel good escape I’d love to read more about, especially Riley, Cooper’s rich bartender friend.

Meant to Be is book #1 in the The Sweetbriar Cove series by Melody Grace. It is a sweet and light standalone, contemporary romance, told from both point of view with a happy ending.

Very good!!! My first read by Melody Grace was so wonderful & so much fun to read I can't wait to read the rest of this series when it comes out. Her writing is thoughtful, whimsical at times & mainly downright funny with the sarcastic & sometimes comical characters she's collected for her Sweetbriar series. Poppy's character is sweet & funny but a little sad as well, because being a well published romance writer you'd think her life was all romance by her books. Unfortunately Poppy hasn't found that one true love yet & coming off a broken engagement she's trying to reset her life & get rid of her writers block that's stopping her from writing the last book in her best selling series. Cooper doesn't believe in happily ever after anymore after a failed engagement, but the architect & contractor does know how to renovate an old house, which is how they meet at 6a.m after Poppy has just gotten to bed after taking a red eye from New York to Sweetbriar Cape Cod. First two meetings not so great but that doesn't mean they didn't make an impression on each other, as well as their third meeting when she plays poker with Cooper & his two friends Riley & Grayson & ends up cleaning up on an unsuspecting, arrogant Cooper. With the growing attraction between them & all of Sweetbriar pushing them together how could they refuse. The not so subtle hints from Mackenzie & Poppy's aunt June's friends Franny & Debra, as well as Riley & Grayson give Cooper the push he needs & the happy starts until it suddenly stops. Cooper can't get beyond his past failure as he sees it & figures he'll save Poppy the inevitable heartbreak by ending things before they go too far. Too bad it's already gone there. I laughed out loud at the untimely arrival of aunt June back from her vacation, as well as the not so subtle flirting by Franny & Debra & aunt June towards Cooper. I felt bad for Poppy's ex fiancé when he showed up looking to get back together even though he knew it was over & for Cooper when he runs into his now happily married & new mom ex fiancée. I loved Mackenzie's form of anger management & aunt June's thoughts that homemade soup heals all. This was a wonderful story & I enjoyed it immensely. Definitely recommend this book.

Meant to Be by Melody Grace is a sweet romance novel. Set in a beach town, it has all the feels of a sweet nostalgic romance novel. I enjoyed reading and falling in love with these characters. There are many aspects of this story I feel will resonate with readers.

The plot of this story was written very well. I actually really loved how the main character is a romance novel writer. I feel this added a dimension to the story that had readers questioning how much of this story is parallel to Melody's life. I feel it gave me a different perspective than I normally would've had reading other books of the same genre.

The characters in this story are great. They both had some major developing to do in order to progress. Cooper is what every women looks for in a backwoods country boy. Plus, I mean he can fix things which is totally hot. In my opinion, there is nothing sexier than a man who can literally build a house with his own two hands. *swoon* Poppy is a character all on her own. She is a writer so you already know she's a dreamer. She also has an unique way of looking at things. I loved reading her thoughts the most.

The chemistry in this book is what you expect from a romance novel. Sparks fly from the first encounter and continue until it combusts. There is no shortage of heat in this book. Let me just say Cooper knows how to melt a girls heart... and panties!

The writing style in this book is what I expected from Melody. While I like her writing style, this was the only area of her book that bugged me. I felt things progressed a bit too fast to feel organic. With that being said, it didn't ruin the book, just disappointed me a bit personally.

Overall, this is a solid romance novel complete with strong women and sexy as sin men. I would recommend this book to others. I really hope she writes stories for some of the minor characters that I grew to love. Great job!

Ratings:
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing style: 4/5
Overall: 4/5

As always Melody Grace has delivered an enjoyable read and a start to a new series that has given us some promising characters to come !! I have always enjoyed this author because she can give you a story that warms your heart , spices up the sheets and has some minimal drama. You can always count on a bit of humor and great supporting characters. Although I call the story lines simple with an easy flow that does not mean they are boring at all , it is a great compliment because it means that she is getting her point across and not driving us readers crazy doing it. It is nice to have a go to author that you can count on for a kind of stress free read !!

Poppy is a romance author who has yet to find that true love in real life. She is currently hiding away to write the next book in her series on the heels of calling off her wedding to her boyfriend of a couple years. Many were surprised yet those few that really know her could tell she was not complete with Owen. Staying in Mass. on Cape Cod she plans to relax and unwind while getting her drive for writing back. Her aunt is on a cruise so for now she has the house to herself which is perfect for the peace and quiet she craves after living in New York for so long. She is not expecting an annoying construction crew to be banging away on the house next door and the head of the annoying crew to be none other than a boy from summers past that always had a knack for driving her crazy !! You know how this goes - they come face to face , they are amazed at how each other has come into themselves yet they don't want to admit that out loud because their first encounter after all those years was not amazing !! Cooper has no faith in the fairy tale life Poppy writes about therefore he blows his attraction off. When the pull is inescapable we see just how hot their chemistry can be and we quickly fall in love with Cooper and Poppy as a couple. Cooper's past issues with love and Poppy's current situation of heading back to New York poses a few issues in their new found relationship. Will they be able to overcome or will they end up as just a quick fling leaving scars on each others hearts ??

Meant to Be by Melody Grace is the first book in the Sweetbriar Cove Series and it’s sweet with a side of sassy! I cannot wait to read the rest of the Sweetbriar Cove Series!

Poppy Somerville is a successful romance writer who has a major case of writer’s block! How can she, write about love, when her love life is in shambles? She’s just left her fiancé, two weeks prior to the their wedding, because she felt something was missing…she wanted more than what her and Owen had. Now with an impending deadline for her next book she has yet to start writing looming over her, she heads to her aunts cottage by the Cape in Sweetbriar Cove. As she tries to sleep after her red eye flight, she’s awoken to racket from next door. She stomps over to lay down the law for the noise at the ungodly hour, only to meet her tormentor from the summer she was in Sweetbriar Cove when she was 10…Cooper Nicholson!! This is not the same Cooper though. Oh no, this Cooper is HOT with a side of arrogance! Damn him!

Cooper Nicholson cannot believe how gorgeous the nerdy girl who always had her head in a book when she was 10 turned out to be! Too bad she’s all wrapped up in that “Meant to Be” and “Love” nonsense. Cooper has “been there, done that” before and won’t do it again.
As these two butt heads at every turn, their argumentative banter soon turns to sweet murmurs. Add to the fact that their chemistry is spine tingling explosive…something neither of them has experienced before. Soon, Poppy has her writing mojo back and is writing up a storm. But what happens when she’s done her book? Her life is back in New York. Or will she give it all up to see what “could be” with Cooper? Cooper’s last relationship left him scarred emotionally. Is he willing to let the past go to see what his future can hold with Poppy?

A sweet and spicy romance that is sure to leave you enamored from beginning to end. The witty banter between Poppy and Cooper will have you laughing out loud and the descriptive scenes will leave you breathless! A definite must read for those who like a sweet and sassy woman who makes the “scorned bachelor” believe in love again!

I voluntarily received an ARC for my honest review.

A fantastic start to a new series!!! I have loved Melody Grace's writing since Untouched and with Meant to Be, I fell in love with the small beach town romances all over again!!!

Poppy was imaginative and spunky. Her character was one that brought happiness with her and people couldn't help but be drawn to her. I loved how real Poppy was. She is a romance writer but her actual love life is not that spectacular. Poppy's honesty about wanting to find the right one for her was refreshing. She knew Cooper from when she was little and he was always picking on her, but now that he has grown into a man, she can't stop thinking about him. Poppy's inner dialogue is one of my favorites; she was funny, hopeful & at times, so sad that I felt like my heart was breaking right along with hers.

Cooper...he is sexy and doesn't believe in love. At one point, he thought he found his forever, but then he got his heart broken and ever since then, he hasn't had a real relationship; until Poppy. He liked her when they were kids but now that she has grown into a beautiful woman, he can't get her off of his mind. I understood Cooper's standing on love since what happened to him was heartbreaking, but at the same time, I loved that his character was changing with Poppy's help and he didn't even realize it. Cooper was definitely one of my favorite male lead characters by Melody Grace, just because he was so different. He didn't believe in love, but his heart beat for Poppy, he was closed off, but with Poppy he was open and etc.

Cooper & Poppy had a connection as soon as their characters reconnected and it started as just a spark, but then throughout the book, it grew into an inferno. The passion between these two was off the charts hot and I loved the banter between them. I swear, they verbal sparring was just foreplay for them!! Like any other couple, there are ups and downs, but it is how you navigate through those times that really shows the strength of the couple, and that was definitely the case with Cooper & Poppy. I truly enjoyed this book; it made me laugh, swoon & shed some tears. Melody Grace's writing is spectacular and I cannot wait for the second book in this series!!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I have to say, I straight up liked this book. It was a great escape that dealt with issues that we all confront every day. There were no serial killers running loose, there was no overly dramatic angst. It was a quietly lovely book that was also hot when it needed to be. From the very beginning, I felt a kinship with the heroine because, after a massively failed relationship, she was asking herself the same questions that I asked myself after a massively failed relationship. I absolutely identified with her. I also liked her because she was sensible but a little quirky and not at all annoying. She was absolutely loveable, as well as likeable. Even though she had doubts about her future, she knew her own mind; for example, she felt bad for the way her previous relationship ended but she didn't let her guilt over that dictate how she handled things going forward. She was strong but not abrasive, and I really liked that about her. I also liked that she was a dreamer to who had her feet on the ground, and didn't let anyone's a-hole behaviour affect her dreams. But Cooper. Ah, Cooper. He is not book boyfriend material, I'm sad to say, and that's why I'm giving this book 4 stars instead of 5. I really liked the rapport that Poppy and Cooper had; it gave me the warm fuzzies, to be honest. But I thought that Cooper was a wuss when it came to going all in with Poppy and when it came to dealing with his own past. I don't want to say more because I'll give too much away but I thought his character was weak and in the end, I didn't find him attractive at all. I thought Poppy was such a great girl and deserved someone better. But I respected her choices so I let her be :-) Also, Cooper knew what was up in the bedroom (or not in the bedroom, wink wink) so he got some points on that score.

A final note: I thought the supporting characters were great. I liked the friends that these 2 had - they were a great support system who really wanted the best for their friends and did their best to ensure they got it. Oh, that we all had friends that had our backs like that.

So, overall, I really liked this book; even though Cooper didn't end up endearing himself to me, Poppy brought it off in great style. I'm really glad I got to meet her, and I hope she pops up again in the rest of the series. And I look forward to seeing what becomes of the other characters.

Stars 4.5

I always find Melody's stories to be sweet and wonderful and Meant to Be is no different, it's fabulous. Once again Melody you have written a book for me to get lost in and I truly enjoyed it. I just love Cooper and Poppy. I always love reading love stories and Melody Grace writes such wonderful romance stories. Poppy is a romance writer with writers block who just broke off her wedding 2 weeks before the big day. So she takes off and goes to her Aunts cottage to get away and find her words again. Cooper is a local and he is remodeling the cottage right next door. So of course the noise causes some issues. Cooper remembers her from when she spent some time as a little girl staying with her Aunt. Cooper and Poppy soon discover some romance but will it be enough for Cooper and Poppy or will things get in the way...well I guess you will have to go and one click this fabulous story to find out what happens with them, sorry I don't spoil books. I'm a true believer in letting you know that I loved the book and think you should read it without telling you everything that happens. I mean if I give you play by play of his great book why would you need to read it for yourself? I loved it and I think you will too. So go and grab Meant to Be and get started reading a very happy romance book and enjoy it. It's nice to have a love story that is truly a great read and that's exactly what you get with Meant to Be by Melody Grace. Thank you so much Melody for a lovely book. I enjoyed every single page! I love Poppy and Cooper.
I highly recommend this book, its great and I know you will love it just as much as me. I think instead of reading my glowing review you should just go ahead and get Meant to Be, you will fall into the pages!
Enjoy and Happy reading!!!

~ Patti

*voluntarily and honestly reviewed an ARC I received from the author*

OH MY GOD. I'm in tears over here with the way things ended. All good things, of course, but goodness. I should start charging for toilet paper cause I have no tissues.

Poppy and Cooper know each other from childhood when she'd visit town over the summer. Fast-forward to the present, and she's a famous author who writes HEAs and encourages her readers to look and fight for that true love. Poppy, as optimistic as she is with the idea of romance, is the total opposite of our dear jaded Cooper, who fought and lost on the battlefield, and now just tries to get by without becoming too grumpy. Until Poppy comes to town to write her latest installment.

I really enjoyed their hate-first-love-last dynamic, that type of thing always gets me, mainly because it's not just instant attraction that they build on, but an eventual level of mutual respect that soon turns into something much more promising. The small town was great and I loved how everyone played a part in making it more like home while adding the humor that had me laughing out loud when it came to Poppy's life being a constant topic for discussion. Cooper was a complicated guy that I wanted to strangle in the end and if I had to be picky, there were maybe less than a handful of things that I could pick on, but I won't, because everything else honestly outweighs it. Like, I'm in love. With this.

As a new reader to this author, I'll definitely be checking out the rest of this series and possibly anything else Grace has to offer us readers. This book was fun, engaging, adorable, heart-breaking, hot and left me with all the right feels. Definite recommend.

I am generally not a huge fan of small town romances. I like my love stories to have a little more angst, a touch more darkness, sometimes a lot a more steam, but Melody Grace's books just connect with me. I love everything about these little communities she creates and the people she fills it with.

Meant to Be focuses on Poppy, a romance writer, who is fleeing a relationship and looking for a little R&R. She seeks refuge at her aunt's house. What is most admirable about Poppy is her unwavering faith in love. She fully believes in the love she writes about, and she is courageous enough to go searching for it, refusing to settle for anything less than earth shattering chemistry. She is a woman who lives what she writes.

Cooper is a hometown boy who had big goals, but ended up back home. Like most hometown boys, Cooper just has this charm. You sucked in by the thoughtfulness, the chivalry, and, in this case, that southern accent. I swear when he said Darlin' my insides melted. Cooper, though, doesn't believe in the romance, the soulmates, the can't live without you feelings. He wants to, readers want it for him, and we spend most of the novel just hoping he will get it together before he loses it all.

This story is incredibly sweet with just a dash of steam. It makes the readers want to move to a small beach town where everyone knows you. This is the gift that Melody Grace has. She makes these towns come alive, and the people in it become like your family. You just want to pack up and find this place and settle in. Her books just provide pure comfort, like coming home.

Arc received in exchange for an honest review

Poppy just broke things off with her fianc� and heads to her Aunt's beach home. She's a romance writer who doesn't know if she believes in romance anymore. She's suffering from major writers block. Cooper owns and is renovating the house next door. Due to all the racket Poppy storms over and raises hell with Cooper. Turns out they knew each other as kids and he loved to pick on her. Still does lol. Cooper as well has had a hard time of love and relationships. He's not sure he believes as well. They both slowly start to fall for each other but both are broken from past relationships. They also know that Poppy isn't sticking around town. She's just there to get her book completed. The book is a good summer read but Cooper is a little bit immature striking out to hurt Poppy before she can hurt him. Reviewed for Headtripping Books by Amy

Favorite Quotes:

Quinn was a force of nature who let nothing stand in her way. It made her a great agent, but her love life was more like a crime scene: full of bad accidents and tape reading ‘do not pass.’

God, don’t ma’am me. I’ve got another ten years of ‘miss,’ I swear.

There are seven stages to grief. First, sweatpants.

It reminds me of the time my second husband was cheating… I took everything he owned and hurled it out the second-floor window… When he came back from that hussy’s place, it was all right there on the sidewalk in ruins.

My Review:

I was thoroughly entertained with Meant To Be, Poppy and Cooper’s sweet and sexy tale. I was delighted when I noticed the #1 in the title, and am already looking forward to numerous repeat trips to Sweetbriar Cove to witness the pairing off of a town full of “scruffy and gorgeous” men. Written from a third person POV, the storyline was relevant and relatable while stocked with appealing and interesting characters. Ms. Grace’s writing style was relaxing and easy to follow, yet also emotive, heart squeezing, and engaging. I was quickly drawn in by the well-detailed storytelling and enjoyed these sweet and clever characters, although there was a period that I wanted to give Cooper a few swift kicks to his back pockets. My favorite character was the lovely Aunt June, of course, it has nothing to do with the fact that she could be my clone. I am hoping Ms. Grace will bestow Aunt June with her own book or at least feature the witty and clever cougar prominently in all future installments.

Sometimes, it's nice to read a love story where you pretty much know what to expect and simply enjoy it for what it is: a romance with a guaranteed happy ending. I really liked Poppy, even though I wasn't a fan of her ending her engagement a couple of weeks before she was supposed to walk down the aisle. She had a good head on her shoulders and a heart that held on to the ideal of true love. Cooper, on the other hand, was abrasive and seemed to go out of his way, at times, to get on Poppy's nerves. He does, of course, show the more caring side of him, and even though people in Sweetbriar Cove admit that he's somewhat of a gruff, pain in the behind, he was someone you could count on and someone who wouldn't think twice about helping one out whether he was asked to or not.

I liked the pacing of the sort and the transition that Poppy and Cooper's relationship went through. They're surrounded by a well-meaning albeit nosy group of residents who appeared to be intent on a happily-ever-after happening for the two. There is one sticking point in the story, though, and it had to do with Cooper being hard-headed about making amends with Poppy, refusing to listen to even his closest friends. It's what changed his mind that had my eyebrow cocking in disbelief. I mean, come on! You wouldn't listen to anyone else except that one person? Really? Ugh! I was disappointed in the man! But yes, we still get the happy ending and Poppy and Cooper do have a more than hopeful outlook on their future together. All things considered, Meant to Be gets four stars. ♥

-------------- reviewed for 2OCC Reviews --------------

Meant to be was an incredible sweet read that focused on a small tow romance between two characters that knew each other as children. I found that this was a sweet read that Melody Grace done a good job with making the story flow really well together.

I really enjoyed the character Poppy because she had a lot of the insecurities and worries that I think a lot of people have in their life. I found that this made me really connect with the character.

Cooper was the sexy male character within the story that I instantly loved from the moment that we were introduced to the character. He was a really caring guy that did a lot of thoughtful and sweet things for Poppy. I loved the way that he helped her to start her writing for her next book wen she was experiencing writers block.

Meant to be is about romance writer Poppy going to the small town she spent a summer with her aunty as a child. She meets Cooper when she is trying to sleep and cant due to the construction work of the house next door. When she goes to yell at the construction worker about the noise she meets Cooper after not seeing him since her summer at Sweetbriar Cove as a child.

Melody Grace has written a sweet and light romance story that has minimal drama throughout it. I enjoyed all the characters throughout the story and cant wait to see which characters are going to be in the series next. I definitely recommend this story to anyone wanting a sweet read.

Five Amazing Stars

I was so absolutely thrilled to receive this first series Sweetbriar Cove. Written by newest exciting author, Melody Grace. Another marvellous new romance that I have so thoroughly enjoyed.

Poppy Somerville just adored reading romance books most of all. That was most definitely her most favourite pastime she did growing love. She in fact was the most passionate romantic. Now after she suddenly break up from her wedding to her fiancé she quickly escapes. Whilst she heads still hoping that she will evidently find her true love.

As she travel a passenger shares a novel for her to read. This lady, not realising that Poppy is the actual writer of the book. It was this wonderful story that she love and remembered so. vividly. It was such a major success for her writing ability and one she will never forget. Now it was time for Poppy to escape her worries of the world and stay at her Aunties place in Cape Cod.

I simply adored this marvellous book so very much. Such the most thrilling romance and so beautifully written. Such a wonderful series I'm so excited to read more. A total winner it was!!

* I recommend this book to everyone.

3.5 Stars

**ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**

What a sweet, yet frustrating story. This wasn't exactly the type of book I enjoy reading as the ones I read are dark, gritty, sort of in your face types. This particular read was a bit to cutesy for my tastes with the perfect town, perfect townspeople, rejected but understanding fiancés...etc. Still it was an entertaining read and while not my kind, I enjoyed it.

The characters were a bit bland and very predictable. Poppy, much like her cute name, was sort of living on a cloud, believing in unicorns, rainbows and the like. She was sweet and caring but a little too naive, still a likable character. She loved unconditionally which could be devastating to someone in her position, being positive about love and HEA, but she gave her all even when she knew she shouldn't.

Cooper was cool but silly in his ideas of love. Whereas Poppy looked forward to loving wholeheartedly, Cooper was the complete opposite except he had no reason to be. At least no reason that made sense. He was angry and bitter over an old breakup, but in my opinion there have been worse breakups and people move on quite happily. That he still held a grudge years later over a very simple breakup was just ludicrous and quite frankly frustrating.

Overall as mentioned before, it was an enjoyable read. Very sweet, cute and frustrating but likable nonetheless.

Ever since Poppy sneaked her first drugstore romance read she thought that there was someone for everyone. She broke off her engagement to Owen two weeks before her wedding. Poppy's aunt June offered her the use of her house so she can get her writing done, while she was away on a cruise. Poppy arrived at her aunts house and was getting ready to go back to bed, when there was a lot of hammering and sawing. She got upset and went over to set the person straight for making so much noise, that's when she saw Cooper again.
Poppy is a romance writer, she is having a writers block. "Pipsqueak." Was nerdy as a kid, always had her nose in a book. Cooper called Poppy "Pipsqueak." He owns his own company, he remodels old houses. Summer is a chef at a high end restaurant, Poppy's friend. Quinn is Poppy's friend and agent. Riley is Cooper's friend, owns his own bar and got his own Karaoke Machine. Mackenzie wants to see Cooper happy, became friends with Poppy. Has her own Pottery studio. Obsessed with coffee, has a book group.
This is the first book in the Sweetbriar Cove series. I loved how well this book is written and how I was drawn into the story from the first page. I loved how well I felt very connected to the characters and how well this book is developed. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

>Book review – Meant to Be: Sweetbriar Cove

>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the first in the Sweetbriar series and ends in an HEA. Poppy is a romance author without much romantic experience. She also is suffering from writer’s block and returns to a childhood summer retreat to try and write her book. Cooper is the boy that drove Poppy crazy. He is all grown up now and very negative on his feelings about love. The plot is a typical romantic plot. The characters meet, get mad at each other, fall for each other, break up and make up. The characters are far from typical, however.

>Cooper honestly feels he will ruin anyone who loves him. His journey to the realization that he can love and receive love in return is unusual for the male character. The small town’s quirky characters keep the story funny and moving along. Some of the characters have mysteries in their pasts, which I am sure are set ups for future books in the series. The book club that can’t agree on a book to read was especially funny.

>This story is filled with a little misunderstanding, but a lot of heart. The book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving the story 5 stars. The read was quick and the story was heartwarming.

Poppy walked out on a life she knew she wanted but had with the wrong man. Escaping to the small town of Sweetbriar to hole up in her Aunt June's home while she was away sounded like the best plan of all. Not to mention she was on a deadline to complete the last book in her bestselling book series.

Cooper was the epitome of bachelor. By day, he restored old home to their former glory and by night, he went through his fair share of women when the tourist season hit the small town. Everyone knew everyone's business in Sweetbriar and that never stopped them from butting into Cooper's.

Poppy and Cooper butted heads at every turn. She was the hopeless romantic and he believed she was giving false hope to those who read her books. That no one found their soulmates and lived happily ever after. Somewhere along the lines they started to fall for one another. Obstacles dared to get in their way, but in the end, they found their way back to one another.

This book is the epitome of happily ever after romance. The setting in a small town, the boy who knew the girl when they were younger and grew up to love again. It was written well and I loved the fact that the main character was a romance writer. Great read.

I voluntarily read this ARC for an honest review~

Poppy Somerville called off her wedding with only two weeks away from The I do's. Poppy needs a place to getaway from everything and everyone. Poppy's Aunt June offers Poppy the run of her place in Cape Cod for however long she wants it. All Poppy wants to do is crash and sleep the day away but when a loud screeching noise interrupts her beauty sleep. She needs to know why? She never expected to find Cooper Nicholson next door working on the neighboring house. Cooper Nicholson never expected a blast from his past to show at the home he's working. Both Cooper and Poppy receive shocks at seeing one another after all these years. Their attraction to one another is mutual but neither of them want to act on it. Will they find the path to love in each other? Your answers await you in Meant to Be.

This story truly made me realize how lucky I am to be married to my hubby. We've known each other 22 years and will celebrate Our 22nd Wedding Anniversary in July. The phrase "Meant to Be" is truly my life and this book as well. My clearest thought is run to your next bookstore or favorite ebook retailer and make this book yours.

Any book that breaks my heart and makes me cry is an automatic 5 star book. The quality of writing is excellent, the plot was well thought through and the pace of the story was good. I had 40 minutes of the book left when I should have been switching my kindle off and going to sleep .... the book won easily, it was gripping and had characters I felt invested in.

Poppy and Cooper were both well developed, genuine and likable characters, with an amazing chemistry. Their interactions were believable, felt real and best of all they were normal, imperfect people. I liked that the book was written from both main characters POV, I find it easier to empathise with them and understand their actions.

The story felt like coming home, it was comfortable, warm and loving. Cooper's belief that he wasn't good enough to love tore me to pieces, and I loved him despite his stupid decisions. He was such a charmer but so broken underneath it all. I really loved the supporting characters in this book and am looking forward to future stories where they get their HEA.

I highly recommend buying and reading this book - you won't regret it.

This was a new author to me and I m so pleased I found her. I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet and romantic story; the first in a new series.

This is the story of romance writer Poppy Sommerville who comes to Sweetbriar Cove to recover from a broken engagement and hopefully move past her writer's block. When she runs into an old friend Cooper Nicholson, little does she know that her world is about to change.

Poppy believes in what she writes, the happily ever after and that there is a special person who will make her life complete. Cooper on the other hand was badly burnt when his last serious relationship ended abruptly. He doesn't believe in the “one” or relationships in general.

Despite doing their level best to ignore each other and their mutual attraction, Poppy and Cooper are continually drawn to one another. When they eventually give in, the chemistry between these two is off the charts.

Will they be able to make this work, or will Cooper's fear of failure lead to a parting of the ways? Will Poppy be able to finish the series her desperate readers are waiting for, or will love get in the way?

I am moving to Sweetbriar Cove and have my eye on Riley! I just finished the ARC and fell in love with Cooper! But since others have dibs on him, I am holding out for Riley.

We all want to believe in love, HEA, long-panty-melting kisses, and HOT under the cover love. We know disagreements will come along the way, but they just serve as the catalyst to angry love-making and gentle apology-love-making anywhere in the house.

Those who have been hurt by someone they loved don't always keep faith in finding "the One" true love. If they have been hurt deeply, chances are they will not want to jump off that ledge one more time for fear of being hurt. This story is about waiting to find "the One" and having the courage to gamble it all in order to pursue it. Never giving up and believing in your feelings is also at the core of this story.

Bravo, Melody Grace! Keep believing and sharing your stories. You brighten our days by sharing the hope that love still exists and may be just around the corner.

I am reviewing this book voluntarily because I just plain LOVED IT!

In today's market, most of the books are fast paced to the bedroom. Meant To Be, by Lauren Morrill, is a sweet romance, that begins with two kids. I believe, that in today's reading world, a lot don't like to read about vulnerable female characters. Also, if they didn't have sex on page two, they're discarding the book altogether. I know I'm exaggerating here but you get my point. Ms. Morrill, painted us a picture of two young kids, in love for the first time. I found this a refreshing change.

Julia is just sixteen, when we being our journey with her and Jason. With Julia being homeschooled, she was a little socially inept to handle a romance, in any other way than that was presented to use to read.

What I loved about this writing, is that Morrill let us figure out some of the elements. She didn't just spoon fed us. Morrill did a wonderful job layering in this story, giving is just enough information at times to make you go, hmm.
I can see how that this might not be a book for everyone, but this reviewer, she enjoyed the diversity of this book.

This is the first book I have read by this author and I have to say it will not be my last one. Fortunately it is also the first in a new series. Poppy is a romance author that is questioning whether the happily-ever-afters that she has made a career of writing will ever happen for her. Having just cancelled her wedding the week before it was scheduled, Poppy escapes to Sweetbriar Cove to get her life back on track and to cure her writer's block. But, Poppy doesn't factor in the sexy neighbor next door into that plan. Cooper, doesn't believe he is meant for love and thinks that romance writers are just setting people up for failure because the HEA doesn't exist. This was a fun contemporary romance, with great secondary characters which will hopefully show up in future novels. I also really enjoyed reading what may have been partially autobiographical comments about being a romance writer and the fact that romance books are looked down on by society.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel.

I love getting lost in a Melody Grace book and am so excited for this new series set in beautiful and romantic Cape Code!
Poppy finds herself in a dilemma of sorts. She’s escaped to her aunt’s Cape Cod home to try and finish her next book and also get her life back in the right direction. Having called off her wedding on a few weeks ago and now with her deadline looming over her, the last thing Poppy expects is to find love.

Copper can’t believe that “pipsqueak” has come back. The last time he saw her was when they were kids and boy did she ever grow up fine. The two don’t get off to the best of starts. Copper isn’t the biggest fan of “love” and now with Poppy back in his life, it seems that’s all everyone wants to talk about… until something changes. There’s a spark there between the two of them, but can he trust himself not to hurt her like he did all those before her.

I absolutely loved this story and can’t wait for more in the series!

I absolutely loved this book. The story was well written and the characters were just adorable! Cooper is your hot, rugged, and sexy carpenter that just so happens to be Poppy's old nemesis in her mind. Come to find out Cooper only teased her and put seaweed down her shirts to get her attention. There is nothing like young love. I serious felt for Poppy when she leaves her fiancee, Owen, a few weeks before their wedding. Smart woman to end it before she gets married and is miserable. I love that she is a romance writer but hasn't found that spark.

Cooper and Poppy hit it off and the whirlwind is awesome and hot. Little peeved at Cooper for being an ass and miscommunication. My heart broke a little. MacKenzie was hilarious and Riley. Don't get me started on Aunt June, she is an absolute riot! I am looking forward to see what happens with Summer. Good book, good storyline, and good set up for the next book! Highly recommend!

3 stars

I loved Melody Grace books. This one was just an ok read for me. I fund it to very slow.

Poppy is back visiting her aunt's place for some peace and quite. She escaped an broken engagement. Her book deadline is due. She has writers block and now she is dealing with non stop construction next door.

Cooper is working on renovating old houses. He just happens to be working next door to Poppy. They used to know each other when they were younger, now is a whole different story. The attraction between the 2 is crazy. There is no denying it. But, Poppy isn't local and just got out of a relationship. Now that she is back, could something happen between them? Cooper has been hurt before and mostly keeps to himself now. Nothing has caught his eye in many year, like Poppy has.

It was a cute story. Nothing like the Beachwood Series. Maybe I just miss those characters.....

A brand new series from this author and if this book is anything to go by I couldn't be more excited! The writing as expected was excellent and I loved the characters, both the main H/h and the secondary characters which should gives us some fantastic books in the future. In this book we have Poppy Somerville. She a romance author who has come to Sweetbriar Cove to work on her next book. Calling off her own wedding just weeks before the big day seems to have thrown her brain into a writer's block nightmare. When an ungodly racket wakes her the first morning she comes face to face with Cooper Nicholson. Poppy remembers Cooper from summers visiting her aunt as a kid but this Cooper is no kid! While these two have an immediate attraction there is just a little problem. She's a hopeless romantic and he doesn't believe in happily ever afters.

Put this on the must read list. I highly recommend it.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book with all its twists and turns. Melody Grace has created fantastic characters that have a great deal of depth to them. The way she writes has you drawn in from the start. You can feel Poppy and Copper's joy and their pain. All there ups and downs like you are living it yourself. I can't wait for the next book in the series.

Poppy was running from her wedding to a man who she didn't truly love. She jumped on a plane off to her aunt Janes summer house at cape cod. Somewhere she can finish her book that is long over due.
It was a long night with the plane ride and then the drive to her aunts that all she wanted to do was sleep. Poppy had arrived and was about to fall asleep, 'Then the hammering began'. The hammering of the hunk next door Cooper Nicholson.

*MAYBE SPOILERS IF YOU KEEP READING*

After there initial first meet which set up for a rocky start, sparks began to fly between them when they spent more time together and Cooper stopped being so pig headed. That was until Poppy's past showed up at her door.

When Poopy and Cooper got back on track and cemented there sparks into a flame who should arrive home but Aunt June. Despite being court with there pants down, Cooper's that is. They are still going strong until a chance meeting Poppy has with Coopers past. This just brings ever thing back for him. Cooper has had doubts for years that he can never bring anyone happiness or have a happily ever after like Poppy is looking for.

Will his pig headedness ruin the best thing that has happened to him. Will Poppy leave and go back to New York after her book is done.

*Honest review for free book provided from ARC*

Meant to be my Melody Grace is book one of three in The Sweebriar Cove series .

Poppy Somerville, a sucessful author, believes in HEA, true love and soulmates.
She brakes up with her fiancé, cancels her wedding and spend the summer at Sweatbriar Cove.

There she stumbles over Cooper Nicholson, a disillusioned man with inner scars who doesn't believe in true love anymore.
They're neighbors and fight , but also have this crazy chemistry who is hard to ignore.
They seem happy and go out but Cooper can't let go of his past.
He's a real dou...
Poppy's heartbroken.
Does he come to his senses in time? Or is he too stubborn to see what is under his eyes?
I really liked this book. It is a sweet, sweet romance and I give 4 Stars.
Favorite Quote: " They had forever now, and she would savor every minute of it. "

This was the first book I have ever read by author, Melody Grace. I must admit I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The book is about a romance writer by the name of Poppy and a contractor named Cooper. The story is set in a town named Sweetbriar. The author takes you on a roller coaster ride throughout the story with Poppy and Cooper experiencing lots of ups and downs on their journey to find true love. The author's story makes you feel like you are on the journey with them. The other characters in the book are your typical small town characters and play a large part in the storyline. This book was very well written and left me smiling when I finished and me believing in true love. I would defi Italy recommend this as a must read book for all that love HEA'S. This book was definitely a four star read and I will be looking for more books by Melody Grace.

I am so disappointed this author found it necessary to have the characters use foul language f this f that. A bad trend in recent books. Someone needs to stand up and say no to crude language - especially in romance.

I received an ARC of this book. Poppy has just left her future husband and her dreams behind just two weeks before she was to be married. She writes romance novels and just didn't want to settle for just ok. Now she is in Sweetbriar Cove staying at her Aunts house. She has to get over her writers block and this is the perfect place for peace and quiet. Until she wakes up and the construction crew is going at it on the house next door. So much for her peace and quiet. Cooper is trying to flip the house as fast as he can. They remember each other from when they were children. One thing leads to another and soon Poppy and Cooper realize that happiness is possible. Except Cooper doesn't think he can be the guy she needs. This book is a great story and I love the small town charm. Happier Ever After does exist.

Thos story was very sweet and, while I might have cried just a few tears ;) , it left me with a warm fuzzy feeling.
Poppy is a romance author and a believer of happily ever after and soul mates..she needs a break from her stressful life..and that’s how she ends up in her aunt’s cottage and straight into Cooper's arm.
Cooper couldn’t be more cynical and set against love and all that nonsense.. he enjoys himself and work hard..and certainly doesn't need anyone else to let down.
The chemistry between these two was definitely powerful and all the glances, smiles and little touch gave me the butterflies..and they were steamy and so freaking perfect together.
I love small towns and this one was so characteristic and charming..I adored June and Mackenzie.
Can't wait for book 2! Btw, this is a standalone:)

Another hit for Melody Grace this book was absolutely great. Not about a billionaire and their freakish ways it was a refreshing to read this book. Don't get me wrong the chemistry between the two main characters was HOT!!! Poppy was supposed to get married to someone she felt safe but she is a romance writer and safe is far from what she wants. So she cancels the wedding and goes to a beach town for some peace and quiet. That's far from what she gets when the sexy Cooper is rehabbing a cottage next door. Cooper is someone she knew from her early childhood days when he used to call her pipsqueak. Well she is no longer that and he sure notices it. Cooper doesn't believe in Happily ever after he just thinks it's unrealistic until he is reunited with the grown Pipsqueak. Will they have their HEA? Read and find out

What a wonderful start to a new series. I can already tell that this sis going to be special. In Meant to Be, we meet what I can only assume is the main cast to the upcoming series. All being residents of the small harbor town.

In this story we have Cooper and Poppy; two individuals that are getting reacquainted since their childhood days. Two people that have very different views of “love and life”. Poppy is a romance author who is a hopeless romantic believing in soulmates and Happy Ever After while Cooper doesn’t believe in Happy Endings - AT ALL!

The book is wonderfully written and it is one of those books that you just want to curl up on the couch and get lost in. 2 Thumbs Up for a delightful romantic romp that I can’t recommend enough. It’s definitely worth 1-clicking - Right Now!

Cooper Nicholson was hurting and feeling he was not meant to be loved. Sad and lonely life he had. Poppy was a romance writer looking for the man meant to be hers. Two souls that complemented he other but it was necessary to work a little more to be together. Good that Poppy was a force of nature because without her strength Cooper would not had step up to the plate. A sweet, lovely and full of emotions story with a strong and smart female character and a man in need to open his eyes and live again. Romance, meddling friends, interesting descriptions and narrations, some sex and a lot of good emotions that added to the story. Voluntarily reviewed this story that left me thinking how misconceptions could affect a life and even more, a future.

Poppy is a romance author, she called of her wedding and broke it off with her fiancé. She just didn't feel it was right between them. The happy end she rights about. Her aunt June told her to stay at her place for a while, so she could finish her book and just get away. She wasn't counting on cooper. Cooper thought he had they happy ever after and it didn't happen. Laura broke it off. Cooper thought he wasn't meant to have a happy ending. They were to lost souls who were different. They make you angry, laugh, and want to cry. I fell in love with the character and this story. I hope there is a part two. Thank you united indie book blog for allowing me to review this book.

Poppy is a romance author, she called of her wedding and broke it off with her fiancé. She just didn't feel it was right between them. The happy end she rights about. Her aunt June told her to stay at her place for a while, so she could finish her book and just get away. She wasn't counting on cooper. Cooper thought he had they happy ever after and it didn't happen. Laura broke it off. Cooper thought he wasn't meant to have a happy ending. They were to lost souls who were different. They make you angry, laugh, and want to cry. I fell in love with the character and this story. I hope there is a part two. Thank you united indie book blog for allowing me to review this book.

This book was perfect for getting lost in. I loved that it let us into the life of an author a little more. Poppy was a romantic author who was waiting for her true love. Cooper didn't believe in happily ever after or love. Once they finally came together there was instant sparks. Cooper fought his feelings thinking he couldn't ever love anyone.
I got so lost in this story and enjoyed every minute of it. I can't wait for more Sweetbriar Cove !!

I enjoyed this story. A vacation to the Cape to write the final novel of her romance series, Poppy finds she still cannot write. Too many distractions and no story line. As the house next door is renovated, Poppy's writing is going nowhere. The contractor becomes a major distraction and the story starts to write itself. Anyone who enjoys a good romance will love this book.I received this free and am writing an honest review.

Ms Grace writes an amazing story about Poppy and Cooper. They had met as children but hadn't seen each other in about 20 years. He was still rocking over a brake up , he felt was his fault. Poppy was doubting whether she would ever have a happy ever after.

The trip is definitely worth it.

It was a great book because it was a great story& was well written. It had romance,comedy&a little of suspense. as to how it would end. It also makes you aware of not taking everything to be what it looks like when feelings are involved.

Meant to Be by Melody Grace is a sweet romance novel. Set in a beach town, it has all the feels of a sweet nostalgic romance novel. I enjoyed reading and falling in love with these characters. There are many aspects of this story I feel will resonate with readers.

The plot of this story was written very well. I actually really loved how the main character is a romance novel writer. I feel this added a dimension to the story that had readers questioning how much of this story is parallel to Melody's life. I feel it gave me a different perspective than I normally would've had reading other books of the same genre.

The characters in this story are great. They both had some major developing to do in order to progress. Cooper is what every women looks for in a backwoods country boy. Plus, I mean he can fix things which is totally hot. In my opinion, there is nothing sexier than a man who can literally build a house with his own two hands. *swoon* Poppy is a character all on her own. She is a writer so you already know she's a dreamer. She also has an unique way of looking at things. I loved reading her thoughts the most.

The chemistry in this book is what you expect from a romance novel. Sparks fly from the first encounter and continue until it combusts. There is no shortage of heat in this book. Let me just say Cooper knows how to melt a girls heart... and panties!

The writing style in this book is what I expected from Melody. While I like her writing style, this was the only area of her book that bugged me. I felt things progressed a bit too fast to feel organic. With that being said, it didn't ruin the book, just disappointed me a bit personally.

Overall, this is a solid romance novel complete with strong women and sexy as sin men. I would recommend this book to others. I really hope she writes stories for some of the minor characters that I grew to love. Great job!

Ratings:
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing style: 4/5
Overall: 4/5

This was a new author to me and I m so pleased I found her. I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet and romantic story; the first in a new series.

This is the story of romance writer Poppy Sommerville who comes to Sweetbriar Cove to recover from a broken engagement and hopefully move past her writer's block. When she runs into an old friend Cooper Nicholson, little does she know that her world is about to change.

Poppy believes in what she writes, the happily ever after and that there is a special person who will make her life complete. Cooper on the other hand was badly burnt when his last serious relationship ended abruptly. He doesn't believe in the “one” or relationships in general.

Despite doing their level best to ignore each other and their mutual attraction, Poppy and Cooper are continually drawn to one another. When they eventually give in, the chemistry between these two is off the charts.

Will they be able to make this work, or will Cooper's fear of failure lead to a parting of the ways? Will Poppy be able to finish the series her desperate readers are waiting for, or will love get in the way?

It was a cute romantic story. I am not to fond of all the sexual details but I am sure that’s why the books fly off the shelves. Too old, I guess.
Surprised these books sell with the so called “me too” movement going on.