Reviewed by Erika Napier
Carol Hutchens brings us a charming first novel about two people caught up in
a whirlwind of deception.
The characters of Ellie and Sam are just plain fun. Headstrong, prideful heroine
clashes with the charming, slightly over-bearing hero. This makes for a grand
time. Personally, I would love to see more stories set in the small town of
Redbud. The menagerie of characters we meet intrigued me and I would love to
get to know them better. Redbud is a lovely backdrop for the climax of the novel
and a place I wish I could go for a long holiday – the Mexican omelet experiment
sounds tasty!
I cannot wait to see what other treats Ms. Hutchens will be offering.
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The Substitute Bride
Reviewer- Char
Blue Ribbon Rating- 4
THE SUBSTITUTE BRIDE by Carol Hutchens is a beautiful and heart warming
romance. Ellie and Sam are wonderful and extremely likeable characters who
had this reader cheering them on all through the book. I was hooked from the
beginning of the story by the fake wedding and enjoyed watching Ellie and Sam
fall slowly in love and come to realize that dreams are meant to be shared. I
recommend picking up this book, finding a cozy chair and plan on losing
yourself in a delightful story.
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Reviewer: Donna Zapf
Rating: 4 stars
Debut author Carol Hutchens penned a most delectable tale of love
discovered and life changes in her captivating novel THE SUBSTITUTE BRIDE
Ms. Hutchens has created a romantic tale with a unique appealing storyline set
in busy New York City and small town Rosebud, North Carolina with fascinating
characters. Ellie is a strong woman with a goal and a past that colors her look
on life. Sam is a sensitive protective man that is also ruled by his past.
Together they realize that the past is not as relevant as they thought and that
love in the present is all that matters.
Kudos to Carol Hutchens for THE SUBSTITUTE BRIDE, the first of many more
engaging novels to come.
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Reviewed by: Tangela Williams
Rated: 4 1/2
"The Substitute Bride is an amazing story that romance readers will enjoy.
They will fall in love with the characters as they read this book since the
character comes to life on the pages. Ms. Hutchens has proven what a
wonderful up and coming writer she is with this sweet and fascinating story!"
To Read more...Click Here
"Carol Hutchens' writing gives us all the warmth of true love and
traditional romance. THE SUBSTITUTE BRIDE is like a perfect wedding
cake: sweet, light and delectably satisfying." …Sierra Donovan, Love On The Air
“I loved your book I just could not stop reading it. I can't wait for the next one.”
…Jeanette Matthews
“It was great!! The characters are memorable and endearing and the suspense of
the dare keeps you turning page after page. Your style of writing and way with
words enables one to feel as if they really know Ellie and Sam and instantly has you
rooting for them both.” …Cynthia Pierce
I've just finished reading Carol's SUBSTITUTE BRIDE and enjoyed it very much - my
own signed hardcover copy, no less. Looks very pretty sitting on my keeper shelf
alongside my recently signed Debbie Macomber (50 HARBOUR STREET). Carol,
what a terrific premise for the story. And thanks for the lovely dedication.
…Valerie Parv, Desert Justice, Silhouette Intimate Moments, and The Art Of
Writing Romance, Second Edition.
Carol, I just finished The Substitute Bride and had to come on and tell you how
much I enjoyed it! Truly, it was my Sunday-in-front-of-the-fire treat!
…Holly Jacobs, Confessions Of A Party Crasher, Harlequin Signature Select, and
Here With Me, Silhouette Romance.
I loved the sweet, innocent, and beautifully written romance story. I was in suspense
and unable to put the book down. The one thing I noted throughout the entire story
was the kindness portrayed between Sam and Ellie. Congratulations for your
accomplishment and may you flourish with continued success! …Wanda
What a sweet book! I didn't want to put The Substitute Bride down. I fell in love with
Sam from the first chapter and was amused by Emiline. Native North Carolinians, like
myself, should be thrilled to see North Carolina described so beautifully by Ms.
Hutchens. I can't wait to read more books with appealing main characters and
wonderfully described settings.
...Brandy
The Substitute Bride is an easy and exciting read! I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I
was drawn to both the quaint setting and budding romance of Emiline and Sam. I
appreciated the author's development of character. Emiline's strong sense of self
and independence was very current in keeping with attitude and drive of women
today and Sam is the kind of man every woman dreams of! A must read!
...Denise
I enjoyed getting to know Ellie and Sam...two purpose-driven people whose
pathways cross. The electricity between them is immediate, even though they try to
deny it.
The descriptions of North Carolina, especially the Pilot Mountain area, will make you
want to visit the state. The author paints lovely pictures both of the countryside and
the people. You will want to meet Ellie and Sam and will be cheering for them at the
end of the book!
Ms. Hutchens is a newly published writer of romantic fiction. I look forward to reading
her next book...and her next book...and her next book...
...Joan Allred
