Mancandy Crush

Super cute, quick novella in the Ponderosa Resort series by Tawna Fenske. Valerie Vincent is a wedding dress designer providing a dress for her cousin Bree Bracelyn (from Sergeant Sexy Pants). She is a little sad as her identical twin sister Vanessa is dating the guy she had a crush on. In walks Josh Mattis, who mistakes Val for Vanessa, whom he had a summer fling with six years ago. After the initial confusion, Josh and Val decide to feign a relationship to keep Vanessa from feeling sorry for Val. This is a sweet and funny book. Josh and Val are really great characters and, while the relationship is short, it is believable. My only criticism is that I wish it was a full length book, rather than a novella

What a wonderful novella! I love the Ponderosa Resort series, and this is a cute addition. The main characters, Valerie and Josh, are adorable together. And while I’m not often a fan of relationships that develop so quickly, somehow it works with this couple. There are also cameos from some of the other characters from past Ponderosa Resort novels, and that’s always fun to see. (Plus, we got a glimpse of Bree and Austin’s wedding!) Fenske has a great ability to write realistic characters that you want to get to know, plus she adds some really awesome wackiness. And this book also introduces us to Valerie’s twin sister, Vanessa, whom I really hope will get a book of her own soon! The books in this series can stand alone, so feel free to jump in with this novella. But once you get a taste of Fenske’s writing and the amazing world she has created, you’ll probably want to binge the rest of the books, too!

This was a cute novella with varying emotions. Betrayal, fear, feelings of inadequacy, putting on a brave face, trying new things and letting go. Both Josh and Val are afraid. Each for their own reasons, but the fear is always there. I don't know anyone who won't be able to relate. Everyone has at least one fear; something that either humiliates them or causes them anxiety, or just unease. Whether it's something from their past, something their hiding in their present or something they're afraid will happen in the future. Fear is a powerful thing and this book brings that to life.

This series has been key in talking about things that most people avoid talking about. Bullying, always having to be perfect, feeling ashamed, fear and trust, and questioning who you are. Tough topics, but each has been addressed and resolved. I love this series for taking on these topics.