Exploring Bluebird Basin: Reviewing the Enchanting Romance Book Series by Jess K. Hardy and Discussion Questions
- Mikayla Young
- Oct 18, 2024
- 8 min read
Romance novels have a unique ability to captivate our hearts and minds, weaving intricate tales about love and connection. Among the shining stars of this genre is the Bluebird Basin series by Jess K. Hardy. This captivating series does more than tell a love story; it invites readers into a world filled with emotional depth and relatable characters. In this post, we'll review the Bluebird Basin series, exploring its themes, character development, and overall impact on readers. Plus, we've included thought-provoking discussion questions to enrich your reading experience.
Introduction to the Bluebird Basin Series by Jess K. Hardy
The Bluebird Basin series is a captivating collection of gen-x romance novels that delve deep into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Each book in the series skillfully weaves together themes of addiction, love, hardships, parenting, caretaking, and the enchanting winter vibes of Bluebird Basin. Through the richly developed characters and intricate plotlines, readers are taken on a journey through the highs and lows of life, exploring the challenges and triumphs that come with love and personal growth.
Set against the backdrop of the picturesque snowy mountains, the series not only captures the beauty of the winter season but also serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. The characters grapple with their inner demons, confront their past traumas, and learn to navigate the complexities of relationships in a world filled with uncertainties.
With each book in the series, readers are invited to immerse themselves in a world where love is both a source of strength and vulnerability, where hardships are opportunities for growth, and where the bonds of family and friendship are tested and strengthened. The Bluebird Basin series is a poignant exploration of the human experience, offering a blend of heartwarming moments, emotional depth, and a touch of winter magic that will leave readers longing for more.
Book 1 - Come As You Are by Jess K. Hardy
Book Overview
Publisher: Pinkity Publishing
Series: Book 1 of 2 in the Bluebird Basin Series
Genres: Adult Romance, Contemporary Fiction
Recommended ages: 18+
Netgalley shelf e-book novel page count: 301
Published: 2022, Available for purchase now.
Thank You to Netgalley, author, and publisher for sending me a digital e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis:
Ashley Cooke, 46, is battling with everything she has to salvage the struggling ski hill her father founded and worked tirelessly to transform into a thriving and inviting ski and snow relaxing environment for all. Ashley hires men from Little Timber, a local sober living home for recovering addicts, to help out and contribute to the season's cost savings. She did not expect to become distracted and fall for Matthew Madigan, the owner and leader of Little Timber, who, as a 53-year-old recovering addict, has dedicated his life to helping other addicts get their lives back on track. Ashley faces mounting financial difficulties, an ex-husband who is doing everything he can to acquire her ski hill and win her back, and Matthew is attempting to keep his men clean and on track while dealing with his own history and problems. Will these two be able to overcome their pasts, current struggles, worries, insecurities, and fears, and perhaps rediscover love, hope, and strength?
Content Notes: Addiction, divorce, grieving the loss of a parent, a gaslighting ex, a tough connection with a parent, and overcoming the fear of not being good enough to receive and give love again.
Reading Log:
June 26, 2024 pg. 74 (+74)
June 29, 2024 pg. 108 (+34)
June 30, 2024 pg. 114 (+6)
July 1, 2024 pg. 222 (+108)
July 2, 2024 pg. 301 (+79)
Review:
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The cover is vivid, well-drawn, and accurately depicts the characters, scene, and tale. The map in the book is lovely and looks like a marketing map for a park or ski resort. The narrative contains elements of humor, realism, romance, sadness, and reflection, which made me laugh, smile, cry, and feel and reflect with the characters. The characters are all so relatable, charming, and well-developed that you feel as if you are right beside them, developing with them on their adventures. The plot was brilliantly written, well-developed, and had a few minor plot twists that added mystery and intrigue to the story, making it even more engaging. The writing was beautiful, realistic, and inventive, which made it easy to identify with the characters and immerse oneself in the plot and environment. The characters, events, and plot drew me in from the first page, and I wish I could have read it all in one night, but I couldn't.
The humor is well-done, and it serves to alleviate the stress and difficult periods in the book while helping readers laugh alongside the characters. There are so many relatable moments for various people, such as worrying about how one will pay their bills, feeling like life has taken you on a rollercoaster you did not agree to ride, grieving a parent, having a difficult time in life but doing your best to get back on track for yourself and loved ones. I appreciate how on the cover and in the book, it is mentioned that Madigan has fear and hope tattooed on his hands, which to me felt like a nod and warning to not let fear control you or overwhelm optimism for a brighter future. I adored and enjoyed Madigan's brother and parent-type banter, as well as his bond with the men from Little Timber. Their friendships were entertaining, witty, relatable, and admirable. Ashley's connection with her daughter Davis and mother, Maude Alice, was relatable and reminded me of my own with my mother. Murphy the dog, despite being a minor character, plays a crucial role as a lovable sidekick who sets things in motion while also serving as a loving fur companion. I liked how Ashley and Madigan's romance progressed; it was realistic, amusing, and impressive in how they supported each other's journey to conquer their challenges, anxieties, and strive for their goals. The romance becomes a little spicy, hence the mature rating, but it contributes to the plot and character development rather than detracting from it, which I really loved.
Come As You Are by Jess K. Hardy is a beautifully written and developed book about overcoming obstacles, finding one's way again, moving on from the past, and learning to live in the present, as well as learning that things and people are not all the same and that it is okay to learn, give, and receive love again. Recommended for readers looking for a beautiful, amusing, and touching contemporary romance with two older main characters, a cute dog, sibling-like banter amongst friends, and more.
Discussion Questions
To further delve into the themes and characters of Come As You Are , here are some discussion questions to ponder:
How does the setting of Bluebird Basin contribute to the overall atmosphere of the story?
In what ways do the characters' past struggles influence their present actions and relationships?
How does the theme of forgiveness manifest throughout the book, and what lessons can be drawn from it?
Which character resonated with you the most, and why?
Did the plot twists and revelations surprise you, or did you anticipate them as the story unfolded?
Book 2 - Lips Like Sugar by Jess K. Hardy
Book Overview
Publisher: Pinkity Publishing
Series: Book 2 of 2 in the Bluebird Basin Series
Genres: Adult Romance, Contemporary Fiction
Recommended ages: 18+
Kindle e-book novel page count: 354
Published: 2024, Available for purchase now.
Synopsis:
Mira Harlow, a busy bakery owner and single mother, impulsively asks drummer Cole Sanderson to be her fake date to a wedding to avoid appearing lonely. Unexpectedly, their connection deepens, leading to a long-distance relationship. As they navigate their feelings, Mira must choose between her stable life and taking a chance on love with Cole.
Content Notes: Living with and caring for a parent with mild cognitive impairment, addiction, relapse, an unhealthy ex.
Reading Log:
October 08. 2024 pg. 22 (+22)
October 9, 2024 pg. 57 (+35)
October 10, 2024 pg. 171 (+114)
October 11, 2024 pg. 190 (+19)
October 12, 2024 pg. 238 (+48)
October 15, 2024 pg. 256 (+18)
October 16, 2024 pg. 354 (+98)
Review:
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
The cover is vibrant, well-executed, and accurately represents the characters, setting, and storyline. The story includes elements of humor, realism, romance, sadness, and introspection, evoking a range of emotions and connection with the characters. The characters are relatable, endearing, and fully fleshed out, creating a sense of being right alongside them on their journey. Mira, a diligent single mother and caring daughter, resonates with her strong work ethic, family love, creativity, and witty humor. Cole, a loving father and friend with a passion for music, charms readers as he interacts with Mira. The supporting characters from Mira and Cole's families contribute humor and distinct personalities, adding a light-hearted touch to the narrative despite the serious themes. The plot is beautifully crafted, well-developed, engaging, sweet, and realistic. The writing is exquisite, realistic, and imaginative, allowing readers to connect with the characters and the story's world. The characters, events, and plot captivate from the beginning, leaving a desire to read it all in one sitting.
The humor in the book is skillfully executed, providing a welcome relief during challenging moments and helping readers connect with the characters through laughter. The story offers relatable experiences, such as parental dynamics shifting as teenagers grow, concerns for loved ones' well-being, struggles with addiction recovery, choosing familiarity over new love that pushes personal growth, and the significance of effective communication in relationships. The affection Cole shows for his granddaughter and daughter, as well as the bond he forms with the men from Little Timber, is heartwarming. Mira's evolving relationship with her mother, who is losing her memories, is both poignant and inspiring as they learn about each other and themselves over time. The progression of Mira and Cole's romance is depicted realistically, blending humor and heartbreak as they support each other through life's challenges and uncertainties, grappling with the decision to pursue love and embrace change. While the romance takes a passionate turn, earning a mature rating, it enriches the story and characters rather than detracting from them, adding depth to the narrative.
Lips Like Sugar by Jess K. Hardy is a wonderfully crafted novel that delves into themes of family, friendship, effective communication, embracing life's ups and downs, cherishing present memories, and the importance of self-care and opening up to love once more. This book is suggested for those seeking a delightful, witty, and heartwarming contemporary romance featuring mature protagonists, lively family dynamics, friendly banter among companions, and more.
Discussion Questions:
1. **Character Development:**
- How do the characters of Mira and Cole evolve throughout the story?
- Which character did you find most relatable and why?
2. **Themes and Emotions:**
- How does the author effectively blend humor, romance, and introspection to evoke various emotions in the readers?
- Discuss the themes of family, friendship, and self-care portrayed in the novel.
3. **Plot and Writing Style:**
- What elements of the plot kept you engaged and wanting to read more?
- How does the author's writing style contribute to creating a realistic and imaginative world for the readers?
4. **Relationship Dynamics:**
- Explore the different relationships depicted in the story, such as parental dynamics, friendships, and romantic relationships.
- How does effective communication play a role in shaping these relationships?
5. **Impact of Memories and Change:**
- Discuss the significance of memories, personal growth, and embracing change as portrayed in the novel.
- How do the characters navigate life's challenges and uncertainties while cherishing present moments?
6. **Romance and Mature Themes:**
- Analyze the progression of Mira and Cole's romance, considering the blend of humor and heartbreak in their relationship.
- How does the mature rating of the romance enhance the depth of the narrative rather than detract from it?
7. **Recommendation and Audience:**
- Who would you recommend this book to and why?
- What aspects of the novel make it a delightful and heartwarming contemporary romance for mature audiences?
A Journey Worth Taking
The Bluebird Basin series by Jess K. Hardy serves as a touching exploration of love, resilience, and the beauty of human connection. With its richly developed characters, engaging themes, and enchanting setting, the series offers a refreshing yet timeless romance that readers will cherish.
As you embark on your journey through Bluebird Basin, let the charm and warmth of the series enrich your reading experience. May it lead you to meaningful conversations and reflections, deepening your appreciation for what makes this series a standout in contemporary romance literature.
If you are interested in learning about the author and more of their works check out their website via the link: Jess K. Hardy.
Happy reading!
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