Mini Review: Up to Me by Christi Barth

Up to Me [Shore Secrets #1] by Christi Barth

Published: June 23,, 2014

Publisher: Carina Press

Format: NetGalley

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis

Ella Mayhew's always appreciated the beautiful view of Seneca Lake from the spa window of her family's hotel. But the view improves dramatically when a hot stranger runs across the grounds—shirtless. He's the first man to kickstart her hormones in the three years since she lost her parents, and she doesn't even know his name.

Graydon Locke's on his umpteenth undercover assignment. The routine's always the same: assess a business, recommend it for closure, then roll out before anyone discovers his decisions impact hundreds of lives. He's always believed nothing good comes out of small towns. Why would this one be different? Then he makes two classic rookie mistakes—falling for the sweet, sexy girl who owns the very business he's on the verge of axing. And letting the town's residents get involved in both his life, and his relationship with Ella.

Ella's the best thing to ever happen to Gray, but he's lied to her from the start. If he pulls the plug on Mayhew Manor, the entire town may crumble. Ella couldn't save her parents, but it's up to her to save their hotel. Even if that means turning her back on true love.

My Thoughts

Maybe I’m a little biased, but I really love and enjoy Christi Barth’s novels and this one is no exception. Up to Me is the first in a new series by her. This novel is about Ella, her parents have past and she hasn’t wanted a relationship in her life. She has been dealing with family issues and just hasn’t felt ready until Garydon walks into her life. She just thinks he’s this nice and sweet guy the first one she has felt anything for in a long time. She doesn’t know the real reason why he showed up at her parents’ hotel and he wants to keep it that way.

Graydon never imagined he would fall for Ella it was never part of the plan. He knows if she really found out she would never forgive him ever again. He can’t decide what to do. It’s a no win situation, he either saves his relationship with Ella or lose his job. I like how either one was looking for love yet as they say you will always find something when you're not looking for it. It's like two lost souls who finally became one. I’m a sucker for a small town, I love the whole closeness and how they usually have quirky characters and of course nosey folks. And while everyone always knows your business nothing beats the loyalty and love they have for one another.

This book is yet another great work from Christi Barth she always writes amazing storylines and well-rounded characters. I for one can’t wait for the next installment of what seems to be a great new series. Do yourself a favor a check out any of her reads you won’t be disappointed.