Review: Loved it
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 12, 2014
1. Comfy area to sit and read? Check!2. Warm snuggly blanket? Check!3. Wine, ice cream , chocolate or any other kind of sympathy/comfort food? Check!4. A box of Kleenex? Check!Well now that’s all settled, let us enjoy the romance. This is Annalisa Nicole’s debut novel and the first book in her Running Into Love series. Right away this reminded me of a very traditional love story; two characters quickly drawn to one another and facing some very difficult times in their lives. What’s the one thing that can help them overcome? Well each other of course.Willow Emery is going through what is by far the hardest thing to conquer, Cancer, and she is doing it all alone. Recently moved to the Seattle area, Willow does not have any family or friends to support her, that is until a random run-in with a gorgeous stranger completely turns her life around.Asher Wellington, a widower of three years is a successful CEO. He spends his days and nights working, battling through his loss and grief until a curious red-headed stranger bumps into him and sparks a light of hope in his heart.I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters in the story are full of sincerity and tenderness.  Annalisa creates a very strong female lead that is easy to relate to and root for; even at times when she is a bit insecure or quick to judgment, you can’t help but rally in her corner. Her male lead is equally lovable; charming, successful and romantic; did I mention hot, oh yes very hot.  Asher may just leave you drooling and dabbing at your chin with item #4 from above checklist.  The intimacy between Asher and Emery gives off some steam but is not too high on the heat factor, definitely up there on the Swoon-O-Meter though, some scenes will definitely leave your heart gushing.  This story has an abundance of supporting characters, mainly Asher’s close-knit family. Both his parents and siblings are not only understanding throughout the novel but immensely compassionate and welcoming of his and Willow’s growing relationship, I found myself wishing I was a Wellington on various occasions!There are several moments in this book that will melt your heart, make you cry and even some moments that might get you frustrated. I would have liked some more character development between the leads and the supporting characters in the book as I felt that was a little rushed. However, overall this debut novel was well written, the story was hopeful, believable, affectionate and heartwarming. Lastly did I mention that this book references The Princess Bride, oh yes pass that Kleenex please…As You Wish.Allisread.com