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Good Folk: Modern Folktales #1
Totally Folked
includes the prequel novella, Just Folking Around
One unforgettable night leads to an unlikely shared connection, and unlikely connections never go unnoticed by the good folks in Green Valley, Tennessee...
Jackson James follows the rules. He has to. He’s a sheriff’s deputy in a super small town with a super big personality. However, strict adherence to the law during the day has been enjoyably balanced by rakish rules at night. Jackson, typically happy to protect and serve (and serve, and serve), starts questioning the value of wayward evenings when getting laid starts to feel more like being waylaid. Could it be that Green Valley’s most eligible—and notorious—bachelor longs for something (and someone) real?
Mega movie star Raquel Ezra follows only one rule: always leave them wanting more. Studio execs, reporters, audiences, fans, lovers—no one can get enough of the smart, savvy, and sexy bombshell. But when “generous offers” begin to feel more like excessive demands, years of always leaving has the elusive starlet longing for something (and perhaps someone) lasting.
When Raquel abruptly returns to the quirky Tennessee hamlet, her path crosses with the delectable deputy with whom she spent one unforgettable night. Unfortunately, scandal and intrigue soon follow. Raquel and Jackson must decide which is more important: following their rules? Or, at long last, finding something real.
TOTALLY FOLKED is a standalone, contemporary romantic comedy novel and book #1 in the Good Folk: Modern Folktales series.
One unforgettable night leads to an unlikely shared connection, and unlikely connections never go unnoticed by the good folks in Green Valley, Tennessee...
Jackson James follows the rules. He has to. He’s a sheriff’s deputy in a super small town with a super big personality. However, strict adherence to the law during the day has been enjoyably balanced by rakish rules at night. Jackson, typically happy to protect and serve (and serve, and serve), starts questioning the value of wayward evenings when getting laid starts to feel more like being waylaid. Could it be that Green Valley’s most eligible—and notorious—bachelor longs for something (and someone) real?
Mega movie star Raquel Ezra follows only one rule: always leave them wanting more. Studio execs, reporters, audiences, fans, lovers—no one can get enough of the smart, savvy, and sexy bombshell. But when “generous offers” begin to feel more like excessive demands, years of always leaving has the elusive starlet longing for something (and perhaps someone) lasting.
When Raquel abruptly returns to the quirky Tennessee hamlet, her path crosses with the delectable deputy with whom she spent one unforgettable night. Unfortunately, scandal and intrigue soon follow. Raquel and Jackson must decide which is more important: following their rules? Or, at long last, finding something real.
TOTALLY FOLKED is a standalone, contemporary romantic comedy novel and book #1 in the Good Folk: Modern Folktales series.
444 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 20, 2021
About the author
Penny Reid
89 books22k followersSign up for the newsletter of awesome: www.pennyreid.ninja/newsletter
Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.
FOLLOW PENNY:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyreidwriter
Twitter: www.twitter.com/reidromance
Instagram:www.instagram.com/reidromance
Just Released:
October 20, 2022: Folk Around and Find Out, Good Folk: Modern Folktales, Book 2
Upcoming Releases:
December 13, 2022: Drama King, Three Kings Series, Book 2
Currently Working On:
2023: Pride and Dad Jokes, Ideal Man, Book 1
Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.
FOLLOW PENNY:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyreidwriter
Twitter: www.twitter.com/reidromance
Instagram:www.instagram.com/reidromance
Just Released:
October 20, 2022: Folk Around and Find Out, Good Folk: Modern Folktales, Book 2
Upcoming Releases:
December 13, 2022: Drama King, Three Kings Series, Book 2
Currently Working On:
2023: Pride and Dad Jokes, Ideal Man, Book 1
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July 20, 2021
★ NOW AVAILABLE! ★
The time has come! The Kraken has been released (If you know, you know). And I hope you love Jackson and Rae as much as I do. GAH! They are just swoony and romantic and so very unexpected. TOTALLY FOLKED is out in the wild, on all platforms!
** Grab Just Folking Around for FREE! **
https://pennyreid.ninja/book/just-fol...
** READ TOTALLY FOLKED **
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Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3upwLcB
One unforgettable night leads to an unlikely shared connection, and unlikely connections never go unnoticed by the good folks in Green Valley, Tennessee...
Jackson James follows the rules. He has to. He’s a sheriff’s deputy in a super small town with a super big personality. However, strict adherence to the law during the day has been enjoyably balanced by rakish rules at night. Jackson, typically happy to protect and serve (and serve, and serve), starts questioning the value of wayward evenings when getting laid starts to feel more like being waylaid. Could it be that Green Valley’s most eligible—and notorious—bachelor longs for something (and someone) real?
Mega movie star Raquel Ezra follows only one rule: always leave them wanting more. Studio execs, reporters, audiences, fans, lovers—no one can get enough of the smart, savvy, and sexy bombshell. But when “generous offers” begin to feel more like excessive demands, years of always leaving has the elusive starlet longing for something (and perhaps someone) lasting.
When Raquel abruptly returns to the quirky Tennessee hamlet, her path crosses with the delectable deputy with whom she spent one unforgettable night. Unfortunately, scandal and intrigue soon follow. Raquel and Jackson must decide which is more important: following their rules? Or, at long last, finding something real.
TOTALLY FOLKED is a standalone, contemporary romantic comedy novel and book #1 in the Good Folk: Modern Folktales series.
March 27, 2023
❝
It’s amazing what being surrounded by kind people will do.
It’s been 5.5 years since THE night. You know, the incredibly hot unforgettable compare-everything-to-it kind of night? Raquel is back in Greenville and in need of a reset and break from her Hollywood life where nothing and no one is real. She’s also in need of a smooch scandal for publicity. Jackson James is a changed man. He has values and wants to be taken seriously. The words casual and scandal are no longer in his vocabulary. His only weakness is a well known actress that he has never been able to forget. AND she’s back. Will these two figure out if something real is possible? Will Jackson James’ ridiculously long tongue make another cameo?
❝
What does one say to a man that one wishes to snog after five plus years of silence?
Hey, so, I know I said I’d never contact you again after our one night together, but do you maybe want to play golf. . . with my holes?
“I want to settle down, for good. I want someone who is ready to put the effort into a relationship in order to make it work in the long term. I want someone who is dedicated to seeing things through, no matter how difficult.”
I am grateful that I got to buddy read this with my beautiful and funny baby Anouk! Read her review here! I had the best time sharing our reactions and love for Jackson James.
Note: It’s one of those names that you are contractually obligated to use in full per the Hot Name Committee. I don’t make the rules.
Overall, I loved this torturously slow burner! The banter was hilarious and the tension was heat inducing. Thankfully, I have not read any of the Winston brothers books. I’m glad I did not have any other impression/influence/opinion of Jackson James other than this series. BC I LOVED HIM!!!
❝
“Avoid popularity. It has many snares and no real benefit.”
“Why do we have so many hills and holes? Women are basically golf courses.”
Jackson James. I’d always liked the way his name sounded. He had a great name.
Anything worth having, any relationship worth keeping, it took time, patience, and—most of all—hard work. Being crazy for someone wasn’t anything but smoke. Crazy didn’t hold your hand when you were sick. Crazy didn’t comfort you at the end of a long day. Crazy didn’t pay the bills and pitch in and ease your burden.
“If I wanted warm affection, I’d get a dog.”
“Except, it didn’t feel warm. Things between us, they felt hot. Even now, every time he looks at me, I feel like I might combust. Or melt. Or evaporate.”
“My point is one I feel you already know: everything always feels impossible, until it’s inevitable.”
July 27, 2021
4 stars
I, like many others, wasn't the biggest Jackson James fan at the start of the Winston Brother's series. Over time, he grew on me. I was excited to get to his book and see how he'd changed. Jackson James was the very best part of this book, so it's safe to say all those changes he made were positive!
Jackson and Raquel meet at a wedding and sparks fly. These two have insane chemistry, but Raquel lives in a different world than the small town deputy. Raquel is friends with Sienna and is also a famous actress and she happens to live in LA. She goes back home after that one night and Jackson continues living his life in Green Creek. Until five years later when she comes back.
Raquel needs a break from everything that is Hollywood. She's tired of living a life that doesn't feel authentic to who she is, so she comes to stay with Sienna for a few days to recoup and decide what she really wants. Of course, she runs into Jackson on day one and those sparks that they experienced early on are still there and still strong.
I adored Jackson so much. I loved the kind of man he was. I loved his relationship with his parents and how strong his moral compass was. Overall I really liked Rae as well. There were things about her that niggled at me just a bit, but she was human and lived a totally different life than Jackson and all of Green Creek.
Totally Folked was a great start to Penny's new Good Folk series. I can't wait to see what comes next. If you're looking for romance that's funny, steamy, sweet, and has that banter that only Penny Reid can write, pick up Totally Folked!
I, like many others, wasn't the biggest Jackson James fan at the start of the Winston Brother's series. Over time, he grew on me. I was excited to get to his book and see how he'd changed. Jackson James was the very best part of this book, so it's safe to say all those changes he made were positive!
Jackson and Raquel meet at a wedding and sparks fly. These two have insane chemistry, but Raquel lives in a different world than the small town deputy. Raquel is friends with Sienna and is also a famous actress and she happens to live in LA. She goes back home after that one night and Jackson continues living his life in Green Creek. Until five years later when she comes back.
Raquel needs a break from everything that is Hollywood. She's tired of living a life that doesn't feel authentic to who she is, so she comes to stay with Sienna for a few days to recoup and decide what she really wants. Of course, she runs into Jackson on day one and those sparks that they experienced early on are still there and still strong.
I adored Jackson so much. I loved the kind of man he was. I loved his relationship with his parents and how strong his moral compass was. Overall I really liked Rae as well. There were things about her that niggled at me just a bit, but she was human and lived a totally different life than Jackson and all of Green Creek.
Totally Folked was a great start to Penny's new Good Folk series. I can't wait to see what comes next. If you're looking for romance that's funny, steamy, sweet, and has that banter that only Penny Reid can write, pick up Totally Folked!
August 5, 2021
this was a painful reading experience..
as someone who has read all of Penny's books and rated 90% of them five stars, I can't believe that here we are..very disappointing book!!
when you have a character-driven book and you don't care about the main protagonists, nothing can be salvageable.. not even the appearance of Winston's brothers.. I love underdogs as main characters, redeemed and reformed playboys in the hero's case, and misunderstood characterization of the heroine. But it doesn't go anywhere. NO excitement! Boring! Forgettable!
not every book by one of your favorite authors can work for you and that is the case here..
and that is my takeaway for all of this..
BETTER LUCK to all of you!!
as someone who has read all of Penny's books and rated 90% of them five stars, I can't believe that here we are..very disappointing book!!
when you have a character-driven book and you don't care about the main protagonists, nothing can be salvageable.. not even the appearance of Winston's brothers.. I love underdogs as main characters, redeemed and reformed playboys in the hero's case, and misunderstood characterization of the heroine. But it doesn't go anywhere. NO excitement! Boring! Forgettable!
not every book by one of your favorite authors can work for you and that is the case here..
and that is my takeaway for all of this..
BETTER LUCK to all of you!!
March 27, 2023
“𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈-𝒊𝒕-𝒂𝒍𝒍-𝒖𝒑-𝒂𝒔-𝑰-𝒈𝒐-𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈. 𝑵𝒐 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒂����𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓.”
First of all, thanks to my baby Cecelia for reading this with me.
I had a great time with you! Loved our rants! 💕🥰
This was such a fun read!
It‘s an unproblematic marshmallow of a book and it hit all the right spots. 🤍
Rae is a great FMC! She’s funny, witty, has a lot of inner monologues that were great to read and is overal super likable. I love how she found herself and got stronger throughout the story. 🫶🏼
For me the star of the show was obviously Jackson James. I don’t think my love for this man is a secret at this point. He’s sweet, hot, humble and a gentlemen.. with the hottest name, I might add!
The smut .. 🔥🥵 It was quite a wait but it was definitely worth it! The chemistry between Rae and Jackson is great. But, the banter is probably my favorite part. Especially compared to Charlotte, their connection is so obvious. It’s very well done by the author!!
The tongue thing was a bit much for me? I don’t know.. it was kinda weird haha.
All in all it’s a great and easy read and I definitely recommend it! ❤️
❥𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:
“𝑩𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒓 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒔 𝒃𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆.”
“𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒛𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒅𝒐. 𝑺𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒏𝒂, 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚, 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝑱𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒔𝒐𝒏. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚’𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅—𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆𝒅—𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒚 𝒑𝒖𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒓 𝒃𝒖𝒍𝒍𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆.”
“𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙨 𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚, 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚.”
“𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎, 𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎. 𝑻𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒅. 𝑨𝒅𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒗𝒖𝒍𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒏 𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒖𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒓, 𝒊𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒑𝒖𝒔𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕.”
“𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒐 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈, 𝒅𝒐 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒊𝒈, 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒆𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒚.” — 𝑱𝒂𝒚𝒏𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒅”
“𝑵𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒔, 𝒏𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒂𝒓𝒆, 𝒏𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒊𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆.”
“𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄.”
“𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
First of all, thanks to my baby Cecelia for reading this with me.
I had a great time with you! Loved our rants! 💕🥰
This was such a fun read!
It‘s an unproblematic marshmallow of a book and it hit all the right spots. 🤍
Rae is a great FMC! She’s funny, witty, has a lot of inner monologues that were great to read and is overal super likable. I love how she found herself and got stronger throughout the story. 🫶🏼
For me the star of the show was obviously Jackson James. I don’t think my love for this man is a secret at this point. He’s sweet, hot, humble and a gentlemen.. with the hottest name, I might add!
The smut .. 🔥🥵 It was quite a wait but it was definitely worth it! The chemistry between Rae and Jackson is great. But, the banter is probably my favorite part. Especially compared to Charlotte, their connection is so obvious. It’s very well done by the author!!
The tongue thing was a bit much for me? I don’t know.. it was kinda weird haha.
All in all it’s a great and easy read and I definitely recommend it! ❤️
❥𝑸𝒖𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔:
“𝑩𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒓 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒔 𝒃𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆.”
“𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒛𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒅𝒐. 𝑺𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒏𝒂, 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚, 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒐𝒕𝒕𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝑱𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒔𝒐𝒏. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚’𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅—𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝑰 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒗𝒆𝒅—𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒚 𝒑𝒖𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒓 𝒃𝒖𝒍𝒍𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆.”
“𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙨 𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚, 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚.”
“𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎, 𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎. 𝑻𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒅. 𝑨𝒅𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒗𝒖𝒍𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒏 𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒖𝒔𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒓, 𝒊𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒑𝒖𝒔𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕.”
“𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒐 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈, 𝒅𝒐 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒊𝒈, 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒆𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒚.” — 𝑱𝒂𝒚𝒏𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒇𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒅”
“𝑵𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒔, 𝒏𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒂𝒓𝒆, 𝒏𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒊𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆.”
“𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄.”
“𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
July 27, 2021
If you've never read anything by Penny Reid before, Totally Folked is a lovely way to start. A great entryway into a world of delightful characters, banana cakes, smoky mountains, quirky situations, and lots of shenanigans.
Also, it's the perfect beach read. It's light, so incredibly funny, heartfelt, and with just the right amount of steam.
If you already know the Winston Brother's series, like me, you might have been wondering... How on earth could Jackson James be a swoony hero?
So let me tell you this, Penny Reid doesn't only redeem Jackson James in Totally Folked, she escalates him to the top of your book boyfriend list.
The thing is, we were all bamboozled. The Winston's were biased. The real Jackson is the farthest thing from the entitled stuck-up sheriff's deputy we were led to believe. He is sweet, kind, polite, thoughtful, a true gentleman, and capital letters hot. You have been warned, you'll not only swoon but completely fall for him.
Raquel Ezra is a stunning Hollywood star. And, yet, her character couldn't be more relatable. Her inner monologue was a treat. Rae (as she likes to be called) was so witty and charming. You will just want to be her friend. She fit right in with the whole gang, and I'm always amazed at how Penny can just write these characters that feel so real. At this point, I'm practically convinced Green Valley exists.
And talking about skillful writing, the whole book is such a levelheaded romance. When you think there's going to be "other woman" drama Penny flips the script and shows how female relationships can be empowering. When you think miscommunication might happen, characters talk things out and discuss their shortcomings. It's a breath of fresh air.
I honestly could sit here and write loads about how I thought this was such a good book, but I encourage you to pick it up and find out for yourself.
I'm so excited to keep reading about all the intriguing people from Green Valley, Tennessee, and oh boy, Hank Weller is next!
Totally Folked is out today!
Thank you so much Social Butterfly PR and Penny Reid for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Also, it's the perfect beach read. It's light, so incredibly funny, heartfelt, and with just the right amount of steam.
If you already know the Winston Brother's series, like me, you might have been wondering... How on earth could Jackson James be a swoony hero?
So let me tell you this, Penny Reid doesn't only redeem Jackson James in Totally Folked, she escalates him to the top of your book boyfriend list.
The thing is, we were all bamboozled. The Winston's were biased. The real Jackson is the farthest thing from the entitled stuck-up sheriff's deputy we were led to believe. He is sweet, kind, polite, thoughtful, a true gentleman, and capital letters hot. You have been warned, you'll not only swoon but completely fall for him.
Raquel Ezra is a stunning Hollywood star. And, yet, her character couldn't be more relatable. Her inner monologue was a treat. Rae (as she likes to be called) was so witty and charming. You will just want to be her friend. She fit right in with the whole gang, and I'm always amazed at how Penny can just write these characters that feel so real. At this point, I'm practically convinced Green Valley exists.
And talking about skillful writing, the whole book is such a levelheaded romance. When you think there's going to be "other woman" drama Penny flips the script and shows how female relationships can be empowering. When you think miscommunication might happen, characters talk things out and discuss their shortcomings. It's a breath of fresh air.
I honestly could sit here and write loads about how I thought this was such a good book, but I encourage you to pick it up and find out for yourself.
I'm so excited to keep reading about all the intriguing people from Green Valley, Tennessee, and oh boy, Hank Weller is next!
Totally Folked is out today!
Thank you so much Social Butterfly PR and Penny Reid for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2022
4.5*
I completely DEVOURED this book. Omg, I loved it.
There were so many points where I couldn’t help but laugh and giggle and swoon.
The writing was immaculate. I love and savoured the book. I literally read this book nonstop for hours on end. It was that good. There were points in the book where I was like Omg I wanna start over and read again 💕
ALSO, EXCUSE ME?! Jackson James was so hot it should be criminal. Like he was HOTTT. He was funny, witty, kind, empathetic and so fucking adorable gahhh I just loved the guy. SO MUCH. Did I also mention how hot he is?? ✨💅
Rae was so adorable and cute but strong and clever. I loved that she had such a vibrant personality once she came out of her shell and took her life by the reins. It was nice reading how her character developed through the book.
The fact that both of the characters had their own solid lives and thoughts and every chapter was fresh and gave me a rush whenever they would interact gahhh I just love them sm.
It really showed how a healthy relationship should be and I loved it. The support system was awesome and I can’t believe I never read this earlier!
𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲:
Penny Reid will always be my fav author and I CANNOT WAIT to start her other series!
Also ugh I won’t be getting a Dave x Charlotte book bc she’s alr got one with someone else 😭 BUT I’m sure I’ll still love him (just not as much as Dave)
𝗦𝗼𝗻𝗴𝘀: 🎧
Something real (sped up) - summer walker ft. Chris Brown
𝗙𝗮𝘃 𝗤𝘂𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀:
“Rae was sweet. Sunshine and rainbows. If caring could be measured in time spent thinking about somebody, she was probably the most important woman in my life.”
“I’m staying.”
“Staying?”
“I’m here to help you.”
“Help me?”
“Yes.” She linked her hands behind my back and peered up at me like she thought my parroting questions were cute.
~GAHHH
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝘃𝗶𝗯𝗲𝘀:
Hook, line and sinker - Tessa Bailey
All Rhodes Lead Here - Mariana Zapata
Things we never got over - Lucy score
I completely DEVOURED this book. Omg, I loved it.
There were so many points where I couldn’t help but laugh and giggle and swoon.
The writing was immaculate. I love and savoured the book. I literally read this book nonstop for hours on end. It was that good. There were points in the book where I was like Omg I wanna start over and read again 💕
ALSO, EXCUSE ME?! Jackson James was so hot it should be criminal. Like he was HOTTT. He was funny, witty, kind, empathetic and so fucking adorable gahhh I just loved the guy. SO MUCH. Did I also mention how hot he is?? ✨💅
Rae was so adorable and cute but strong and clever. I loved that she had such a vibrant personality once she came out of her shell and took her life by the reins. It was nice reading how her character developed through the book.
The fact that both of the characters had their own solid lives and thoughts and every chapter was fresh and gave me a rush whenever they would interact gahhh I just love them sm.
It really showed how a healthy relationship should be and I loved it. The support system was awesome and I can’t believe I never read this earlier!
𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲:
Penny Reid will always be my fav author and I CANNOT WAIT to start her other series!
Also ugh I won’t be getting a Dave x Charlotte book bc she’s alr got one with someone else 😭 BUT I’m sure I’ll still love him (just not as much as Dave)
𝗦𝗼𝗻𝗴𝘀: 🎧
Something real (sped up) - summer walker ft. Chris Brown
𝗙𝗮𝘃 𝗤𝘂𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀:
“Rae was sweet. Sunshine and rainbows. If caring could be measured in time spent thinking about somebody, she was probably the most important woman in my life.”
“I’m staying.”
“Staying?”
“I’m here to help you.”
“Help me?”
“Yes.” She linked her hands behind my back and peered up at me like she thought my parroting questions were cute.
~GAHHH
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝘃𝗶𝗯𝗲𝘀:
Hook, line and sinker - Tessa Bailey
All Rhodes Lead Here - Mariana Zapata
Things we never got over - Lucy score
March 7, 2022
I’m so glad that we’re continuing to get romances set in the Green Valley world. Deputy sheriff Jackson James has always been a favorite character. After loving the prequel novella set 5.5 years before the events of this novel take place, where Jackson and Hollywood actress Raquel Ezra have a one-night fling after meeting at a wedding, I was eager to see where things picked up. The pie scene was especially funny. (Actually, there were several pie scenes and this whole book was funny.) I really loved Jackson’s sweetness, the relationship he had with his dad, the fake dating relationship Raquel had been trying to escape from in Hollywood, and of course getting to see glimpses of the Winston clan. This book was just a treat to read from start to finish as Rae and Jackson worked their way towards their happy ending. They were both just such good people. I loved reading about the friendships they had with other characters in the book, too. This was just a heartwarming addition to the Green Valley universe to read.
April 10, 2023
3.5 stars
This was fine, very light fare… it made me happy and had a soothing quality, but for real, not much went on in it. It was just these two mains hanging out, trying not to have a relationship but being pulled together because of intense chemistry and then right before anything happens 💥 the sex is interrupted. This happened again and again. I heard this was a slow burn, but it was more of a drawn dog. I found the sex interruptis a bit overplayed and used more as a ploy than anything to help move this non-plot forward.
I liked Jackson, he was a very low key, southern gentleman and I think he’s the main reason why this book was so soothing to me. Though he did push Raquel away, give mixed messages and wasn’t a great communicator, he was very sweet and thoughtful and all about Raquel and her needs. Kinda like a man martyr. He was fine putting everything he needed and wanted aside for her, which was slightly annoying, because he didn’t ask for what he wanted so that left her confused as to his real intentions. She (Raquel) always seemed to be the main pursuer in their relationship. Since I prefer when the guy does the pursuing, this wasn’t my fave.
But the writing was good, the side characters cute, the small town setting very sweet, and the narration was top notch. Would have preferred duet over duel narration, but loved both voices and thought they were well cast.
Overall this book gave me low key good feelings but not much else. There wasn’t really a whole lot here.
I’m going to go try again with this author with the Winston brothers series, and see what all those bearded dudes are all about, they seemed more exciting!
This was fine, very light fare… it made me happy and had a soothing quality, but for real, not much went on in it. It was just these two mains hanging out, trying not to have a relationship but being pulled together because of intense chemistry and then right before anything happens 💥 the sex is interrupted. This happened again and again. I heard this was a slow burn, but it was more of a drawn dog. I found the sex interruptis a bit overplayed and used more as a ploy than anything to help move this non-plot forward.
I liked Jackson, he was a very low key, southern gentleman and I think he’s the main reason why this book was so soothing to me. Though he did push Raquel away, give mixed messages and wasn’t a great communicator, he was very sweet and thoughtful and all about Raquel and her needs. Kinda like a man martyr. He was fine putting everything he needed and wanted aside for her, which was slightly annoying, because he didn’t ask for what he wanted so that left her confused as to his real intentions. She (Raquel) always seemed to be the main pursuer in their relationship. Since I prefer when the guy does the pursuing, this wasn’t my fave.
But the writing was good, the side characters cute, the small town setting very sweet, and the narration was top notch. Would have preferred duet over duel narration, but loved both voices and thought they were well cast.
Overall this book gave me low key good feelings but not much else. There wasn’t really a whole lot here.
I’m going to go try again with this author with the Winston brothers series, and see what all those bearded dudes are all about, they seemed more exciting!
April 28, 2024
2.5 stars
I rarely read romance novellas because I feel like I’m always left wanting more. This was like the first time where I felt like the novella was enough for their story. I feel like everything was said and done in the novella it just needed a proper ending not an entire book after.
I rarely read romance novellas because I feel like I’m always left wanting more. This was like the first time where I felt like the novella was enough for their story. I feel like everything was said and done in the novella it just needed a proper ending not an entire book after.
Want to read
January 13, 2021didn’t like Jackson but why am i super pumped for his book 🤔
July 20, 2021
First of all, I just want to say, how nice it was to have no real big drama in this one. No motorcycle gang stuff or kidnapping or shoot outs or blackmail or betrayals.. just small down romance. I think Reid is shaking off the themes of her Winston Brothers series, even though this is the same world and same characters, and going for something a little more every day, more wholesome. I mean, this is only book one, but that's the vibe I'm getting. I appreciated it and appreciated the break in the over the top action, too.
Surprisingly -- and I say that because inevitably after a long wait for a certain character's book, it doesn't always live up to what you wished or wanted -- I really liked Jackson in this one. It's been so long since the first time he showed up on the page, where we only knew so much about him, that I didn't quite expect this to be where he ended up. I mean, sure, and over time his character was fleshed out a bit, we saw he wasn't quite the douche canoe he first appeared to be, but I liked finally getting his side of things.
Having said that, his romantic interest, was.. fine? Okay? Honestly I'm not left with much. Rae had personality and hangups, sure, she was a fully drawn and even coloured in character but honestly all I'll probably remember about her, after time, is that she was an actress, like Sienna. The particulars won't hold space in my memory. She didn't stand out.
Which also kind of applies to every other character, too, except maybe newcomer (at least I don't recall her in the other series..) Charlotte. I liked Charlotte. Beyond, ultimately, being bestie to both Jackson and Rae she doesn't do a whole lot but she does her role well.
I realize I'm probably not singing a lot of praises for this one but alongside the lack of drama the overall feelings are perhaps a bit muted as a result. But not in a bad way. I enjoyed my time back in Green Valley. I do think I've said this before and that I've maybe outgrown this world, if not the author, and I'm more interested to see new things from her, but I'll probably keep reading these until said new things show up.
If you're a fan of this author, and this world, I don't think you'll be disappointed by this one at all.
** I received an ARC from the author (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
Surprisingly -- and I say that because inevitably after a long wait for a certain character's book, it doesn't always live up to what you wished or wanted -- I really liked Jackson in this one. It's been so long since the first time he showed up on the page, where we only knew so much about him, that I didn't quite expect this to be where he ended up. I mean, sure, and over time his character was fleshed out a bit, we saw he wasn't quite the douche canoe he first appeared to be, but I liked finally getting his side of things.
Having said that, his romantic interest, was.. fine? Okay? Honestly I'm not left with much. Rae had personality and hangups, sure, she was a fully drawn and even coloured in character but honestly all I'll probably remember about her, after time, is that she was an actress, like Sienna. The particulars won't hold space in my memory. She didn't stand out.
Which also kind of applies to every other character, too, except maybe newcomer (at least I don't recall her in the other series..) Charlotte. I liked Charlotte. Beyond, ultimately, being bestie to both Jackson and Rae she doesn't do a whole lot but she does her role well.
I realize I'm probably not singing a lot of praises for this one but alongside the lack of drama the overall feelings are perhaps a bit muted as a result. But not in a bad way. I enjoyed my time back in Green Valley. I do think I've said this before and that I've maybe outgrown this world, if not the author, and I'm more interested to see new things from her, but I'll probably keep reading these until said new things show up.
If you're a fan of this author, and this world, I don't think you'll be disappointed by this one at all.
** I received an ARC from the author (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
December 1, 2022
YES, YES, YES, Totally FREE!
5 I'm Totally Folked Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
I am doing a quick review, otherwise, I could go on and on with the love I have for this book and Penny Reid. Being back in Green Valley, having the Winston men making appearances, and having Reid create her characters perfect for these stories...makes me so happy. Yes, even giddy, because when it is all said and done, Reid ALWAYS gives us moments that will ring so true about relationships, all types, whether parental, with friends, or with the ones who make our hearts sing.
This was so easy to read. We had a man who was a reformed player, seriously reformed. He realized the errors of his ways, of how he wanted to change and achieve the type of relationship he saw his parents had. They had been a loving role model and he saw the hard work, dedication, and willingness to listen to each other first hand. This was what he thought should be.
Our love interest for him was someone whose family life was nothing like his. She had no father role model and her mother was accomplished, extremely independent, and accomplished, and instilled in her daughter that only She should be responsible for her own decisions.
These two come together under the spell that Green Valley usually causes when an outsider comes for a brief visit. Sparks happen, interest continues long after the first visit, and then when they meet again...It Is On.
Do yourself a favor, buy this book, go someplace where you can dig in, and enjoy. It will light up your mood, and receive those incredible life lessons Reid planted, too.
Just Folking Around (Good Folks, #0.5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Totally Folked (Good Folks, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Folk Around and Find Out (Good Folks, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Give a Folk (Good Folks, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
April 8, 2021
Green Valley, Tennessee...
That Is All That Needs To Be Said...
It Is A Place Where Unusual Things Happen...
And All Of The Folks Notice Everything...
Jackson James Knows Exactly How...
To Balance Inquirying Minds And Do His Job...
As A Sheriff's Deputy, He Strictly Follows The Rules...
During The Day...
As For His Nights...
Well, He Has Other Rules, Ah Hm...
Mega Movie Star Raquel Ezra Believes In Rules, Too...
In Fact, She Swears By Her Main One...
Always Leave Them Wanting More...
Leave The Stage, The Film, The Event...
And Most Importantly, The Bed...
Having Whomever Wanting More...
When Raquel And Jackson Had Their Moment...
Neither Thought A More Would Be Wanted...
But Now Raquel Is Back In Green Valley...
And Jackson Is Feeling His Past Ways...
Need To Be Left Behind...
It Seems Both Of These Rule Followers...
Are Looking To Break Some And Maybe Get...
Totally Folked (Good Folks, #1)-July 20, 2021
December 29, 2019
Yes, knew about this coming earlier but hadn't put it front and center...afraid to jinx it.
I want anything Penny Reid touches...plain and simple.
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
5 I'm Totally Folked Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
I am doing a quick review, otherwise, I could go on and on with the love I have for this book and Penny Reid. Being back in Green Valley, having the Winston men making appearances, and having Reid create her characters perfect for these stories...makes me so happy. Yes, even giddy, because when it is all said and done, Reid ALWAYS gives us moments that will ring so true about relationships, all types, whether parental, with friends, or with the ones who make our hearts sing.
This was so easy to read. We had a man who was a reformed player, seriously reformed. He realized the errors of his ways, of how he wanted to change and achieve the type of relationship he saw his parents had. They had been a loving role model and he saw the hard work, dedication, and willingness to listen to each other first hand. This was what he thought should be.
Our love interest for him was someone whose family life was nothing like his. She had no father role model and her mother was accomplished, extremely independent, and accomplished, and instilled in her daughter that only She should be responsible for her own decisions.
These two come together under the spell that Green Valley usually causes when an outsider comes for a brief visit. Sparks happen, interest continues long after the first visit, and then when they meet again...It Is On.
Do yourself a favor, buy this book, go someplace where you can dig in, and enjoy. It will light up your mood, and receive those incredible life lessons Reid planted, too.
Just Folking Around (Good Folks, #0.5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Totally Folked (Good Folks, #1) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Folk Around and Find Out (Good Folks, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Give a Folk (Good Folks, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
April 8, 2021
Green Valley, Tennessee...
That Is All That Needs To Be Said...
It Is A Place Where Unusual Things Happen...
And All Of The Folks Notice Everything...
Jackson James Knows Exactly How...
To Balance Inquirying Minds And Do His Job...
As A Sheriff's Deputy, He Strictly Follows The Rules...
During The Day...
As For His Nights...
Well, He Has Other Rules, Ah Hm...
Mega Movie Star Raquel Ezra Believes In Rules, Too...
In Fact, She Swears By Her Main One...
Always Leave Them Wanting More...
Leave The Stage, The Film, The Event...
And Most Importantly, The Bed...
Having Whomever Wanting More...
When Raquel And Jackson Had Their Moment...
Neither Thought A More Would Be Wanted...
But Now Raquel Is Back In Green Valley...
And Jackson Is Feeling His Past Ways...
Need To Be Left Behind...
It Seems Both Of These Rule Followers...
Are Looking To Break Some And Maybe Get...
Totally Folked (Good Folks, #1)-July 20, 2021
December 29, 2019
Yes, knew about this coming earlier but hadn't put it front and center...afraid to jinx it.
I want anything Penny Reid touches...plain and simple.
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
July 24, 2021
TITLE: TOTALLY FOLKED
AUTHOR: Penny Reid
SERIES: Good Folk #1
RELEASE DATE: July 20, 2021
GENRE: Contemporary Romance, RomCom
TROPES: Hollywood Princess meets Country Sheriff
RATING: 2.5 Stars
CLIFFHANGER: No
I'm a hardcore fangirl of Penny's books. I'll keep on reading her no matter what - I believe that we all have the small number of books by an author that just won't completely work for us. That was TOTALLY FOLKED for me.
Penny Reid released the prologue as a separate shorty a few weeks ago. JUST FOLKING AROUND introduced us to Raquel, Hollywood's hottest up and coming star. Back then I found her to be shallow and she showed some signs of being quirky. In short, I was convinced that we'd see some character growth over the course of the full length novel. Unfortunately that's not how I felt by the end of TOTALLY FOLKED. The quirkiness was just a blip and the shallowness hung to Raquel for most of the story. There were several instances I was wrinkling my nose in confusion. Like when two of her friends, Sienna and Charlotte, who happened to be the deputy's former girlfriend, gossiped about Jackson's "kraken tongue" and she actually chimed in. Sure, she didn't want to at first but she did anyway. Later when one of those friends said Raquel could trust her with information she had the chutzpe to question Charlotte's trustworthiness. I found Raquel superficial, a little selfish, a little cowardly and clueless for quite some time and I just didn't feel as drawn to her as to pretty much ever other of Reid's female characters.
Jackson James was supposed to be a hardass. The character we were shown in this author's Winston Brother's series was a bit of jerk. I wanted to see Jackson turning from this former lady's man and tough guy to someone who cared. Instead we got a Jackson who was already that. Sweet, patient, sensitive and thoughtful. I'm not complaining a hero being all that, mind you, no, it's the development I'm missing. It's like this guy had a complete personality transplant. I also found him a little bit too average, to be honest. There was nothing super exciting about him. I liked him well enough but he definitely isn't my favorite male main character in any of Penny Reid's books. I also found the author's (repeated) description of his kraken tongue rather unsexy.
Every Winston character in this book and especially Cletus stole them the show. Cletus made me laugh but that's pretty much the only couple of times I actually saw Penny's wonderful sense of humor. Speaking of our favorite Winston brother (what am I saying, they all are favorites), Jackson's sudden friendship with him that came out of the blue wasn't very plausible. As I said, there are holes of "not knowing how it came to be" in this story. I did warm up to Raquel in the end but, you know, too little too late.
Another thing I found jarring was the sudden ending of the epilogue. We were told about Rae's estranged father throughout the story and how his not wanting anything to do with her shaped her. And when we actually are supposed to get a resolution to that it's cut off. Just like that. What?
There were parts that I found endearing and I am not giving up on Penny Reid. I know she has immense talent, I have complete faith that her next book will win me over once more.
As always please read other reviews to get a fuller picture - my thoughts on TOTALLY FOLKED aren't universal.
“You’re sunshine and rainbows.”
July 23, 2021
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Jackson James is the deputy sheriff in the small town of Green Valley, Tennessee. He's a gorgeous bachelor who had a reputation for being a ladies man. Wanting people to take him seriously and clean up his image, could he finally be tired of temporary and be looking to settle down?
Raquel Ezra is a Hollywood movie star living in Los Angeles. She's known as a sexy bombshell, and is in hot demand for movie roles. She loves her job as an actress and her career always comes first, but after years of demands and pretending, everything in her life feels fake. She's exhausted and longs for privacy and freedom. She'd love to get away for a while and on a whim returns to Tennessee to visit a friend. While there she crosses paths with a man she spent one unforgettable night with. It's been over five years since she's laid eyes on Deputy Dreamy, and he's just as beautiful as she remembers. While there will Rae be able to resist the pull she feels to her rule following gentleman, or will overwhelming desire make her reckless? Will they renew their connection or miss a chance at finding something real?
-This man, he just did something to me. I couldn't explain it.
-The way he looked at me was completely and utterly intoxicating. Partly because his eyes rarely seemed to stray from my face. Partly because it was him, my dreamy deputy.
Totally Folked is the first book in Penny Reid's new Good Folk: Modern Folktales series. It's a standalone small town, friends to lovers, second chance, celebrity romance with scandal, awkward situations, hilarious banter, small town gossip, and irresistible effortless chemistry. It's fun, delicious, romantic, swoony and packed with a few Winston Brothers and all the plans, schemes and shenanigans we are used to in Green Valley. I loved this couple and finally getting more of Jackson James! I can't wait for more stories in this series! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3wZLmfB
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)
Jackson James is the deputy sheriff in the small town of Green Valley, Tennessee. He's a gorgeous bachelor who had a reputation for being a ladies man. Wanting people to take him seriously and clean up his image, could he finally be tired of temporary and be looking to settle down?
Raquel Ezra is a Hollywood movie star living in Los Angeles. She's known as a sexy bombshell, and is in hot demand for movie roles. She loves her job as an actress and her career always comes first, but after years of demands and pretending, everything in her life feels fake. She's exhausted and longs for privacy and freedom. She'd love to get away for a while and on a whim returns to Tennessee to visit a friend. While there she crosses paths with a man she spent one unforgettable night with. It's been over five years since she's laid eyes on Deputy Dreamy, and he's just as beautiful as she remembers. While there will Rae be able to resist the pull she feels to her rule following gentleman, or will overwhelming desire make her reckless? Will they renew their connection or miss a chance at finding something real?
-This man, he just did something to me. I couldn't explain it.
-The way he looked at me was completely and utterly intoxicating. Partly because his eyes rarely seemed to stray from my face. Partly because it was him, my dreamy deputy.
Totally Folked is the first book in Penny Reid's new Good Folk: Modern Folktales series. It's a standalone small town, friends to lovers, second chance, celebrity romance with scandal, awkward situations, hilarious banter, small town gossip, and irresistible effortless chemistry. It's fun, delicious, romantic, swoony and packed with a few Winston Brothers and all the plans, schemes and shenanigans we are used to in Green Valley. I loved this couple and finally getting more of Jackson James! I can't wait for more stories in this series! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3wZLmfB
July 22, 2021
Title: Totally Folked
Series: Good Folk: Modern Folktales #1
Author: Penny Reid
Release date: July 20, 2021
Cliffhanger: no
Genre: contemporary romance
I've read just about all of Penny Reid's full length novels and almost every one of them were 4-5 stars for me. Seems unlikely to have that kind of success, but there's always been a feeling of magic when I slipped inside one of her books. When I needed something witty, outside the stereotypical box, and bursting with heartwarming romance, Penny has been my go-to. That being said, I had such a difficult time with this particular story and regrettably it fell below my high expectations.
We are introduced to Raquel as she arrives in town with her friend from Hollywood for Sienna's wedding. Her thoughts gave the impression that she was condescending and superficial which are not traits I particularly like to see in heroines. She laughed as her friend mocked Green Valley, and pitied Sienna for settling down in hicksville. It immediately left a bad taste in my mouth. The reader is told that she finds herself weird, however, I didn't understand that as I saw no evidence of any unusual or quirky traits. Raquel seemed like a very average plastic Hollywood type-obsessed with fame and making it to the top of the "A-list." There's nothing wrong with a woman putting her career at a higher priority than romance, but she uses her past experience of being cheated on to justify objectifying/using men and disposing of them after one night. When the roles are reversed and a man treats women that way, it bothers me to no end, so there is no reason why I would find Raquel's attitude empowering or admirable.
Raquel tells Jackson that they can have some fun together, and he doesn't have to worry about her getting attached because he'll be "dead to her" after they hook up. She promises never to contact him again. She keeps reiterating this thought to herself throughout the book. That she promised never to bother him again, and that's what he expects...but she never once stopped to consider that he may have want more since the beginning. When she comes back to town a few years later after their impulsive hook-up, this is a sample of her internal dialogue:
Hey, so, I know I said I’d never contact you again after our one night together, but do you maybe want to play golf. . . with my holes?
This is not the humor I've come to know and love from this author. It fell flat on its face. In general, I'm used to her endearing, clever characters making me laugh out loud on almost every page. That was noticeably absent for me in this case, except when Cletus appeared to steal the spotlight. Cletus' blunt, razor-sharp tongue never fails to give me a hearty chuckle, so I was really enjoying the small scenes where he made an appearance.
“To the casual observer, someone like Ash or Rae being with someone like you might not make much sense.” Cletus stared off into the distance. “You’re a sheriff’s deputy in a big Tennessee county with a bunch of small towns that can’t afford their own police department. You’re not wealthy. You’re not learned. You’re not impressive. You don’t eat meat. You’re not showy or flashy. Your face isn’t perfectly symmetrical—”
“This is you not being mean?”
Jackson James is a reformed ladies man who has been looking for a relationship with substance for some time, but his soiled reputation precedes him. As well, his immature treatment of Ashley back in high school is another stubborn stain that seemingly cannot completely be removed. In a small town, petty grudges have a way of lingering, and Jackson continues to feel shame over old history because of it. In this book, Jackson is presented as intelligent, patient, sometimes a little awkward with Raquel, and above all, a man who strives to live up to his father's legacy. I went back and looked him up in the Winston series, and this is a big departure from who he used to be. He was especially annoying in book one, Truth or Beard. He was described as a "dumb-ass," and "bored little shit of a man drunk on power" and was generally like an annoying fly that wouldn't stop buzzing around your face.
We didn't get any hint of that from him in this book, in fact, he was a gentleman towards Raquel from page one of their interactions, and here and there veering towards a charming flirt-but a sweet one. He has even (mostly) won over the Winston brothers who all had a very low opinion of him in the past. I'm not mad about that, but his character seemed so...erratic? One moment he's acting clueless in reading female signals towards him (not the typical problem of a former player) and another he's losing his battle to avoid "pushiness" with women and expertly manhandling Raquel.
In the first half of the book, he's dating a woman in town named Charlotte when Raquel comes back to town. She's did everything but strip naked and climb him like a tree, and he was totally in the dark about what was going on. His father even tried to help him out and push him towards asserting himself sexually towards her, and when he interpreted Charlotte's behavior to him, Jackson was totally taken aback. To me, it would have made more sense if he was pretending to be clueless because of his desire to avoid a relationship based solely on surface passion. Not literally clueless. It didn't add up with who he's been described as in the past, and to be honest, it wasn't a good look. Neither was his issue with asserting himself and communicating his needs because of hang-ups from high school.
Raquel came off as someone who had spent so long around superficial people, that she fell into their lifestyle and belief system because she didn't have a strong grasp on who she truly was. Everyone around her tells her what's best for her, but unfortunately it's really what's best for them. In other words, she's a bit of a doormat for fake people looking out for themselves. She's become beat down and weary, and like Jackson unable to assert herself with those who wish to capitalize off of her fame. Once Raquel started to evolve and become more sensitive to others, and started to place value on people and things that were real and tangibly good for her, my dislike did ease. I'm all for character growth, and I did see a good amount when it came to her.
Unfortunately by that time, there were many examples of her not treating Jackson with the proper respect-something that he has always given her, and that did bother me. For example, the scene where she talked about Jackson and his "kraken tongue" only served to cheapen their physical experience together. She and her friends were fangirling over an exaggerated physical attribute like teenagers. In the same way that his harem of exes rudely gossiped about him in the past. When he hears that she was sharing personal details of him like that, it genuinely bothered and embarrassed him because of how the women in town have treated him like a piece of meat for years. Raquel herself even calls him a "snack." His hurt feelings made the insensitivity feel even harsher.
“Is this how it’s going to be now? You’re going to be like everyone else and start missing my body more than me?” I’d meant it to be a joke, but she—and I—heard the edge of truth in them before I realized what I’d said and how it sounded. She stared at me, her features growing sober. But not shocked.
Moving on, there was also a small conflict regarding Raquel's family relationships. This felt artificially addressed, and even skimmed over which is a departure from the deep emotional dives this author typically gives. The epilogue in particular ended really abruptly, much to my disappointment. I would have loved to have seen the full scene, as it had the potential to bring some much needed feels, but just when my excitement started to build, a door was slammed in my face and the book ended.
Based on other early reviews out there, I seem to be in the extreme minority so don't just take my subjective word for it on this series starter. If you're a long time fan and you're looking for more time in Green Valley to enjoy, pick this one up and judge for yourself. This one was more of a miss for me, but chances are, you could feel much differently.
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July 17, 2021
Check your expectations at the door... Penny Reid has delivered a contemporary romance swoonfest I didn't see coming.
Fans of friends-to-lovers rejoice! Totally Folked is a folking delight. If you're like me and wary of romances featuring celebrities, have no fear. Rae is a fantastic heroine. She sheds her Hollywood armor and charms the reader with her awkward tendencies and lovable vulnerability. Her lines and inner thoughts are snort-laugh inducing, endearing you to this unconventional heroine with every passing page.
And let's not forgot about Jackson James. If you've been a fan of Penny Reid, then you know who I'm talking about. Perhaps you were unimpressed or holding a grudge from Winston Brothers books of old. Maybe you just didn't care to give the misunderstood sheriff's deputy the time of day. But I'm here to tell you (as a former grudge-holder), Jackson James is 100% not what you were expecting. He has so many layers...delicious layers...like a chocolate cake. Totally Folked gives us a look at grown-up Jackson, full of caring, compassion, and an honorable heart. If you think you know Jackson James...you don't. Prepare yourself!
Penny Reid brings us a summer blockbuster in the form of this brand new series. Perfect for fans of Green Valley and also a great place for new readers to start. There's a familiarity and an exciting newness on the horizon with this Good Folk series. Classic smart romance meets modern folktale in this romantic feel-good read.
Fans of friends-to-lovers rejoice! Totally Folked is a folking delight. If you're like me and wary of romances featuring celebrities, have no fear. Rae is a fantastic heroine. She sheds her Hollywood armor and charms the reader with her awkward tendencies and lovable vulnerability. Her lines and inner thoughts are snort-laugh inducing, endearing you to this unconventional heroine with every passing page.
And let's not forgot about Jackson James. If you've been a fan of Penny Reid, then you know who I'm talking about. Perhaps you were unimpressed or holding a grudge from Winston Brothers books of old. Maybe you just didn't care to give the misunderstood sheriff's deputy the time of day. But I'm here to tell you (as a former grudge-holder), Jackson James is 100% not what you were expecting. He has so many layers...delicious layers...like a chocolate cake. Totally Folked gives us a look at grown-up Jackson, full of caring, compassion, and an honorable heart. If you think you know Jackson James...you don't. Prepare yourself!
Penny Reid brings us a summer blockbuster in the form of this brand new series. Perfect for fans of Green Valley and also a great place for new readers to start. There's a familiarity and an exciting newness on the horizon with this Good Folk series. Classic smart romance meets modern folktale in this romantic feel-good read.
July 23, 2021
It's funny that whenever I read a Penny Reid book, I feel almost like I'm reading some highbrow society novel. Not that I don't absolutely love and admire the whole romance genre. But for some reason Penny writes in a way that almost feels educational. Like I almost feel like my eleventh grade English teacher is going to pop up and ask me about the underlying meaning of the story.
And for some reason I freaking love it. Honestly, I've loved every single book I've read by Penny, and I always put them down feeling more like I've gone on a journey than that I've read a book. The entire town of Green Valley just keeps gifting us with these beautiful characters and they are all so uniquely flawed and relatable. They literally make me cry for their pain and laugh at their jokes.
Raquel was amazing. And although I couldn't even imagine living the life of the rich and famous, I could still really relate to her. Her entire personality was rainbows and sunshine and I want to be her best friend. Her thoughts and description of Jackson made me laugh and love her even more.
Now Jackson James is someone we kind of knew from all the earlier Winston Brothers books. But damn did that boy have depth and so much empathy and humanity. I completely adored him.
The book was perfect, and I can't wait to see what the plan is for the series. I honestly have so many characters that I'm hoping Penny writes next, but I also know that it doesn't even matter. She will make me love them and I'll enjoy every word of their story.
And for some reason I freaking love it. Honestly, I've loved every single book I've read by Penny, and I always put them down feeling more like I've gone on a journey than that I've read a book. The entire town of Green Valley just keeps gifting us with these beautiful characters and they are all so uniquely flawed and relatable. They literally make me cry for their pain and laugh at their jokes.
Raquel was amazing. And although I couldn't even imagine living the life of the rich and famous, I could still really relate to her. Her entire personality was rainbows and sunshine and I want to be her best friend. Her thoughts and description of Jackson made me laugh and love her even more.
Now Jackson James is someone we kind of knew from all the earlier Winston Brothers books. But damn did that boy have depth and so much empathy and humanity. I completely adored him.
The book was perfect, and I can't wait to see what the plan is for the series. I honestly have so many characters that I'm hoping Penny writes next, but I also know that it doesn't even matter. She will make me love them and I'll enjoy every word of their story.
Want to read
March 21, 2019Libro de Jackson James!!!!!!!
Penny me quiere matar de felicidad.
2020????
Penny me quiere matar de felicidad.
2020????
July 24, 2021
*** 4 Deputy Dreamy STARS ***
FINALLY!!!
Éste es un spin off de una de las series de Penny Reid y le pegó fuerte a mi fangirl intensa, ya que es bien sabido que los Winston Brothers es una de mis series favoritas y que Cletus y Jethro son de mis personajes más amados en el mundo literario y que sus apariciones e intervenciones me dieron mil años de vida.
PERO este no es un libro de los Winston sino de Jackson James uno de los personajes más odiados al principio pero al final muy aclamado.
Y amigos créanme esperé 3 años por este libro.
HISTORIA
Esta trama trata sobre Jackson un hombre que es ayudante de sheriff y futuro electo a sheriff y Raquel una famosa actriz y sex simbol muy aclamada en Hollywood.
Dos personas que no tienen nada en común, de mundos muy diferentes pero que tienen una gran conexión.
Ellos se vieron por primera vez en la boda de Jethro y Sienna (protagonistas del segundo libro de los Winston) 5 años atrás tuvieron su noche loca pero sin sexo pero ella se va y no vuelve a mirar atrás hasta que vuelve tiempo después y siguen teniendo la misma conexión porque it´s all about the chemistry
Es una historia donde a pesar de que sus prioridades no son las mismas encuentran el camino para estar juntos.
PERSONAJES
Tanto Rae como Jackson me encantaron son muy típicos personajes de Penny nada tóxicos muy wholsome
Raquel al principio no me agradaba mucho pero conforme fue avanzando la historia fue agarrándole cariño es una mujer muy dulce, cálida que ama su trabajo y ha hecho todo por él , sacrificando su propia esencia, fingiendo siempre.
Cuando llega a Green Valley se ve rodeada de personas auténticas y sinceras que va sacando a la verdadera Rae esa mujer inteligente, amable, cariñosa y también fuerte y decida.
Me encantó el desarrollo y el crecimiento de Rae.
Jackson Si bien Jackson al principio era un imbécil a lo largo de los libro empezamos a vislumbrar otra cara de él una que me empezó a gustar.
Jackson es un buen hombre, con principios, siempre atento a las necesidades de las personas, un caballero y es que este tipo de hombre es muy típico de Penny y que rara vez vemos en otros libros y es lo que hace tan especial tanto la serie principal como este spin off.
Jackson también tiene inseguridades, lleva un gran peso encima para estar a la altura de las expectativas de la gente ya que su papá es un gran sheriff y muy querido, quiere que se sienta orgullo de él y no lo quiere defraudar.
Disfruté mucho este libro tiene esa esencia y esa peculiaridad que caracteriza a Penny que la odias o la amas en mi caso yo la amo.
Voy a estar con las ansías locas esperando el próximo libro que será de Hank y Charlotte pero primeros se nos viene otro de Cletus y Jenn y yo EMOSIÓN MÁXIMA.
This heart is stunning. It’s my absolutely, without a doubt, favorite part of you. And when you’re gone, when we’re not together, this is the part of you I will always miss most.”
FINALLY!!!
Éste es un spin off de una de las series de Penny Reid y le pegó fuerte a mi fangirl intensa, ya que es bien sabido que los Winston Brothers es una de mis series favoritas y que Cletus y Jethro son de mis personajes más amados en el mundo literario y que sus apariciones e intervenciones me dieron mil años de vida.
PERO este no es un libro de los Winston sino de Jackson James uno de los personajes más odiados al principio pero al final muy aclamado.
Y amigos créanme esperé 3 años por este libro.
HISTORIA
Esta trama trata sobre Jackson un hombre que es ayudante de sheriff y futuro electo a sheriff y Raquel una famosa actriz y sex simbol muy aclamada en Hollywood.
Dos personas que no tienen nada en común, de mundos muy diferentes pero que tienen una gran conexión.
Ellos se vieron por primera vez en la boda de Jethro y Sienna (protagonistas del segundo libro de los Winston) 5 años atrás tuvieron su noche loca pero sin sexo pero ella se va y no vuelve a mirar atrás hasta que vuelve tiempo después y siguen teniendo la misma conexión porque it´s all about the chemistry
Es una historia donde a pesar de que sus prioridades no son las mismas encuentran el camino para estar juntos.
PERSONAJES
Tanto Rae como Jackson me encantaron son muy típicos personajes de Penny nada tóxicos muy wholsome
Raquel al principio no me agradaba mucho pero conforme fue avanzando la historia fue agarrándole cariño es una mujer muy dulce, cálida que ama su trabajo y ha hecho todo por él , sacrificando su propia esencia, fingiendo siempre.
Cuando llega a Green Valley se ve rodeada de personas auténticas y sinceras que va sacando a la verdadera Rae esa mujer inteligente, amable, cariñosa y también fuerte y decida.
Me encantó el desarrollo y el crecimiento de Rae.
Jackson Si bien Jackson al principio era un imbécil a lo largo de los libro empezamos a vislumbrar otra cara de él una que me empezó a gustar.
Jackson es un buen hombre, con principios, siempre atento a las necesidades de las personas, un caballero y es que este tipo de hombre es muy típico de Penny y que rara vez vemos en otros libros y es lo que hace tan especial tanto la serie principal como este spin off.
Jackson también tiene inseguridades, lleva un gran peso encima para estar a la altura de las expectativas de la gente ya que su papá es un gran sheriff y muy querido, quiere que se sienta orgullo de él y no lo quiere defraudar.
Disfruté mucho este libro tiene esa esencia y esa peculiaridad que caracteriza a Penny que la odias o la amas en mi caso yo la amo.
Voy a estar con las ansías locas esperando el próximo libro que será de Hank y Charlotte pero primeros se nos viene otro de Cletus y Jenn y yo EMOSIÓN MÁXIMA.
August 6, 2021
OMG I couldn't stop smiling and laughing. It was sooooo good to go back to Green Valley. Penny Reid delivers another amazingly swoony read!
Jackson James never thought he’d see the bombshell movie star he spent an unforgettable night with ever again. But after five years when Raquel Ezra decides to escape the Hollywood trappings and hide out for a bit in the small town of Green Valley, can the two escape scandal and work towards something lasting and real?
I honestly never thought I would fall head over heels for Jackson James. Oh boy am I happy to be wrong. The man has layers and I loved every single one of them. He’s shy, modest, kind and incredibly romantic man.
Rae cracked me up. Her inner monologues were so funny and made her more relatable. I wanted to be friends with the witty and charming star. Jack and Rae’s relationship is sweet, loving and sensual. It also felt very organic and real.
As for the secondary characters, well… we’re back in Green Valley, the origins of the Pennyverse. Enough said.
If Penny writes it, I shall read it. From her posts to her books, I love everything she creates. In particular, Totally Folked was clever, with loads of humor, romance, steam, well placed epigraphs, snarky comments and wonderful insights. It’s a great start to what I’m sure will be a wonderful series.
Totally Folked is book #1 of the Good Folk: Modern Folktales series by Penny Reid. It’s a standalone, contemporary romantic comedy told from both points of view with a happy ending. Tropes: Small town romance | friends to lovers
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3l2ZK4p
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
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Jackson James never thought he’d see the bombshell movie star he spent an unforgettable night with ever again. But after five years when Raquel Ezra decides to escape the Hollywood trappings and hide out for a bit in the small town of Green Valley, can the two escape scandal and work towards something lasting and real?
I honestly never thought I would fall head over heels for Jackson James. Oh boy am I happy to be wrong. The man has layers and I loved every single one of them. He’s shy, modest, kind and incredibly romantic man.
Rae cracked me up. Her inner monologues were so funny and made her more relatable. I wanted to be friends with the witty and charming star. Jack and Rae’s relationship is sweet, loving and sensual. It also felt very organic and real.
As for the secondary characters, well… we’re back in Green Valley, the origins of the Pennyverse. Enough said.
If Penny writes it, I shall read it. From her posts to her books, I love everything she creates. In particular, Totally Folked was clever, with loads of humor, romance, steam, well placed epigraphs, snarky comments and wonderful insights. It’s a great start to what I’m sure will be a wonderful series.
Totally Folked is book #1 of the Good Folk: Modern Folktales series by Penny Reid. It’s a standalone, contemporary romantic comedy told from both points of view with a happy ending. Tropes: Small town romance | friends to lovers
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3l2ZK4p
★ I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. ★
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July 22, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
Sexual orientation is a spectrum of course, but I think he prefers peen and pecs, and I get it. I prefer peen and pecs. What do I want with boobs and beavers? So many parts, so many holes. Why do we have so many hills and holes? Women are basically golf courses.
“Are you serious?” “As serious as a Botox shortage in Beverly Hills.”
Your mistakes and missteps will reinforce people’s unflattering ideas about you, and your good deeds will be explained away by nice weather.
She was basically MacGyver, Martha Stewart, and Captain Marvel all rolled up into one woman. Janet James could turn dirt and a paper clip into a winning science fair project, bake ten dozen gluten-free, dairy-free cupcakes while grading assignments, making dinner, and checking in to ensure my sister and I had finished our homework, washed our hands, and eaten our vegetables —all without breaking a sweat or displaying a single crack in her outward calm.
My stomach threw a dinner party and only invited anxiety.
My Review:
Oh. Happy, Day. A new series from Penny Reid is always a cause for major celebration; as is a new book, new novella, a new newsletter, new Facebook post… you get the picture. The woman has mad skills and I adore her endearingly peculiar and enticing characters as much as her crisp and cleverly amusing writing style. I have repeatedly fallen into her tales and often felt regretful in having to come back out. After eagerly anticipating the enigmatic Jackson’s story for what has felt like decades, I am delighted to opine that his chronicle could not have been better. The humor, romance, inner conflicts, startling epiphanies, snarky observations, wryly humorous insights, sensual steam, and bitingly witty dialogues were perfectly honed, simply sublime, and everything I have come to expect from this master scribbler.
Sexual orientation is a spectrum of course, but I think he prefers peen and pecs, and I get it. I prefer peen and pecs. What do I want with boobs and beavers? So many parts, so many holes. Why do we have so many hills and holes? Women are basically golf courses.
“Are you serious?” “As serious as a Botox shortage in Beverly Hills.”
Your mistakes and missteps will reinforce people’s unflattering ideas about you, and your good deeds will be explained away by nice weather.
She was basically MacGyver, Martha Stewart, and Captain Marvel all rolled up into one woman. Janet James could turn dirt and a paper clip into a winning science fair project, bake ten dozen gluten-free, dairy-free cupcakes while grading assignments, making dinner, and checking in to ensure my sister and I had finished our homework, washed our hands, and eaten our vegetables —all without breaking a sweat or displaying a single crack in her outward calm.
My stomach threw a dinner party and only invited anxiety.
My Review:
Oh. Happy, Day. A new series from Penny Reid is always a cause for major celebration; as is a new book, new novella, a new newsletter, new Facebook post… you get the picture. The woman has mad skills and I adore her endearingly peculiar and enticing characters as much as her crisp and cleverly amusing writing style. I have repeatedly fallen into her tales and often felt regretful in having to come back out. After eagerly anticipating the enigmatic Jackson’s story for what has felt like decades, I am delighted to opine that his chronicle could not have been better. The humor, romance, inner conflicts, startling epiphanies, snarky observations, wryly humorous insights, sensual steam, and bitingly witty dialogues were perfectly honed, simply sublime, and everything I have come to expect from this master scribbler.
July 30, 2021
4 STARS <3
Well , well this was so good, I feel like it was forever since I read a book from Penny Reid and I really enjoyed this one!Jackson James is my new crush!I freaking loved him , from the moment they met!
Such a swoon worthy hero, my heart was aching for him!Raquel was great too I really liked her there were moments I find her stubborn but still liked her.They were so flirty,sweet and full of tension these two!
If you are up for a small town romance, a hot guy, a fun heroine with some steamy monets this is for you!
Well , well this was so good, I feel like it was forever since I read a book from Penny Reid and I really enjoyed this one!Jackson James is my new crush!I freaking loved him , from the moment they met!
Such a swoon worthy hero, my heart was aching for him!Raquel was great too I really liked her there were moments I find her stubborn but still liked her.They were so flirty,sweet and full of tension these two!
If you are up for a small town romance, a hot guy, a fun heroine with some steamy monets this is for you!
July 22, 2021
Penny Reid queen of small town romances? YES, SHE IS FOR ME!! there's just something about her books that make you feel at home and as part of something special, and that's Green Valley for me.
One night 5 years ago, Jackson James and Raquel Ezra formed a special connection, the only ones able to see each other for who they really were, but the timing wasn't right. Now Raquel is surprisingly back in Green Valley and that connection between them is still there, but there are reputations to maintain and future plans that are apparently set in stone, the time isn't right again, but this may be the last chance they have to finally make it work.
Now I need to be honest, when Penny announced a book for Jackson James I was... wary, to say the least. He was a side character on the Winston Brothers series and for over six? seven books? he was quite "meh", and a few times I downright hated him, so that's why this book took me by surprise and I'm happy this author proved me wrong, and that's basically why she's my favorite author.
This romance was sweet and unexpected, but also a bit sexy if you like that (wink wink), and the small town vibes with nosy neighbors made it 1000x times better and funnier! If you have read the Winston brothers then you already know what to expect, but I liked that this differed a bit from that series as it doesn't contain such heavy topics and is a bit lower on the angst.
Jackson James was the surprise of the night, who would have thought that this character had so much to deliver? not me, that's for sure! He must be one of the most thoughtful, empathetic and kind characters that I have ever read, always trying to make everyone happy in his community even if it means putting whatever he wants aside, and then there's his funny and gallant side, charming Rae (and me) from the beginning. I'm just repeating myself here, but I really loved the twist that Penny put on this character. And we also have Raquel Ezra AKA Rae, a Hollywood superstar escaping the pressure of public life within the Smoky Mountains, a new character that hooks you from the start with her internal monologues and way of panicking in certain situations. She was so funny, and bold, and straightforward like damn, I really want to be like her when I grow up! We get to know a lot about the life of this actress and what she's escaping from, but also what she's looking for with this little breath.
Overall, this book was a good surprise; I loved and liked both characters, the romance was spectacular, the conflict was nothing out of this world and it was somewhat realistic in my opinion, and I love the fact that the author continues to write within the limits of Green Valley. And that sneak peek! man i'm feeling a lot of funny moments coming my way and i'm so ready for it.
ARC provided by the author and Social Butterfly PR in exchange of an honest review.
“Bad day, Jackson?”
One night 5 years ago, Jackson James and Raquel Ezra formed a special connection, the only ones able to see each other for who they really were, but the timing wasn't right. Now Raquel is surprisingly back in Green Valley and that connection between them is still there, but there are reputations to maintain and future plans that are apparently set in stone, the time isn't right again, but this may be the last chance they have to finally make it work.
Now I need to be honest, when Penny announced a book for Jackson James I was... wary, to say the least. He was a side character on the Winston Brothers series and for over six? seven books? he was quite "meh", and a few times I downright hated him, so that's why this book took me by surprise and I'm happy this author proved me wrong, and that's basically why she's my favorite author.
This romance was sweet and unexpected, but also a bit sexy if you like that (wink wink), and the small town vibes with nosy neighbors made it 1000x times better and funnier! If you have read the Winston brothers then you already know what to expect, but I liked that this differed a bit from that series as it doesn't contain such heavy topics and is a bit lower on the angst.
Jackson James was the surprise of the night, who would have thought that this character had so much to deliver? not me, that's for sure! He must be one of the most thoughtful, empathetic and kind characters that I have ever read, always trying to make everyone happy in his community even if it means putting whatever he wants aside, and then there's his funny and gallant side, charming Rae (and me) from the beginning. I'm just repeating myself here, but I really loved the twist that Penny put on this character. And we also have Raquel Ezra AKA Rae, a Hollywood superstar escaping the pressure of public life within the Smoky Mountains, a new character that hooks you from the start with her internal monologues and way of panicking in certain situations. She was so funny, and bold, and straightforward like damn, I really want to be like her when I grow up! We get to know a lot about the life of this actress and what she's escaping from, but also what she's looking for with this little breath.
Overall, this book was a good surprise; I loved and liked both characters, the romance was spectacular, the conflict was nothing out of this world and it was somewhat realistic in my opinion, and I love the fact that the author continues to write within the limits of Green Valley. And that sneak peek! man i'm feeling a lot of funny moments coming my way and i'm so ready for it.
ARC provided by the author and Social Butterfly PR in exchange of an honest review.
July 22, 2021
First three chapters free to read.
https://pennyreid.ninja/2021/07/read-...
The prequel is free at the start of this book.
I'm not sure about this one.
I'm not sure if I've just felt a bit saturated by Green valley due to the smartypants romance books or if it's been too long since I was feeling invested that I wanted Jackson's book..... But it was meh....
It was odd at times.
The heroine, I just couldn't connect with her.
I'm a bit unclear on what her issues were other than "I'm a mess"
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
They have an instant connection.
In the prequel they had a non sex ONS.
This is 5 years, I think it is, when they meet up again.
Spoilers.
X
X
X
X
Jackson is looking for something permanent with a woman, partly due to his career prospects, partly due to not disappointing his parents and partly as he was bored of the man-whore reputation.
He is 'courting' a single mum but they haven't had much alone time.
They've been friends for years and are trying the romance thing but there's no spark.
She ends things quite early on in the book, amicably.
This is as the heroine returns to Green Valley after 5 years.
The heroine is an actress, I felt a bit the author was trying to ride the success of Sienna and Jethro's book, but it just doesn't live up to it.
The heroine is fake engaged to a Hollywood star.
The book is full of unfinished conversations, misunderstandings of intentions or wishes.
And quotes thrown in that I think we're supposed to drive a point home but at times felt, to me anyway, out of place.
It's very low drama, not much happens really.
There is some complicated family dynamic for the heroine with her mother and father, which I didn't really feel was examined enough or I understood.
As not much happens, low angst, it felt a bit quick but at the time it felt long I think as I got a bit bored, skimming through the inner monologues of the heroine.
I'm not sure if I've moved on in my writing tastes from this author or if it's not a very good book.
If you are unsure maybe try the sample, the link is above.
HEA.
Epilogue.... Room to be extended as she is moving on with things in her life but not everything is explained, meeting her ex and her father's family.
https://pennyreid.ninja/2021/07/read-...
The prequel is free at the start of this book.
I'm not sure about this one.
I'm not sure if I've just felt a bit saturated by Green valley due to the smartypants romance books or if it's been too long since I was feeling invested that I wanted Jackson's book..... But it was meh....
It was odd at times.
The heroine, I just couldn't connect with her.
I'm a bit unclear on what her issues were other than "I'm a mess"
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
They have an instant connection.
In the prequel they had a non sex ONS.
This is 5 years, I think it is, when they meet up again.
Spoilers.
X
X
X
X
Jackson is looking for something permanent with a woman, partly due to his career prospects, partly due to not disappointing his parents and partly as he was bored of the man-whore reputation.
He is 'courting' a single mum but they haven't had much alone time.
They've been friends for years and are trying the romance thing but there's no spark.
She ends things quite early on in the book, amicably.
This is as the heroine returns to Green Valley after 5 years.
The heroine is an actress, I felt a bit the author was trying to ride the success of Sienna and Jethro's book, but it just doesn't live up to it.
The heroine is fake engaged to a Hollywood star.
The book is full of unfinished conversations, misunderstandings of intentions or wishes.
And quotes thrown in that I think we're supposed to drive a point home but at times felt, to me anyway, out of place.
It's very low drama, not much happens really.
There is some complicated family dynamic for the heroine with her mother and father, which I didn't really feel was examined enough or I understood.
As not much happens, low angst, it felt a bit quick but at the time it felt long I think as I got a bit bored, skimming through the inner monologues of the heroine.
I'm not sure if I've moved on in my writing tastes from this author or if it's not a very good book.
If you are unsure maybe try the sample, the link is above.
HEA.
Epilogue.... Room to be extended as she is moving on with things in her life but not everything is explained, meeting her ex and her father's family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
April 28, 2023THERE'S A BLURB!!!!!!!
This better be set post Beard Necessities or i'll fight-
I've been waiting for jackson's book since truth and beard (duh). There's hope for 2021.
This better be set post Beard Necessities or i'll fight-
I've been waiting for jackson's book since truth and beard (duh). There's hope for 2021.
July 26, 2021
4.5 stars
I had such a great time with this book!
I loved Raquel so much (hell yes to WOC heroine!!!) and I was pleasantly surprised by Jackson. There is nothing that wins me over faster than a soft hero. I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but it was certainly a strong start to a new series. I also love the way the town and it's people there are really built and feel like such an important part of the story and who these characters are.
I will always love Penny Reid's books and even though I have almost zero interest in character that are not the Winstons, I am excited to see what PR will write next in this world!
I had such a great time with this book!
I loved Raquel so much (hell yes to WOC heroine!!!) and I was pleasantly surprised by Jackson. There is nothing that wins me over faster than a soft hero. I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but it was certainly a strong start to a new series. I also love the way the town and it's people there are really built and feel like such an important part of the story and who these characters are.
I will always love Penny Reid's books and even though I have almost zero interest in character that are not the Winstons, I am excited to see what PR will write next in this world!
August 4, 2021
4 STARS
And... yes, the Penny Reid magic just keeps on flowing. And I'm so happy to finally get a glimpse into the mind of Jackson James, the most often misunderstood deputy sheriff and brother of Jessica James. And what a surprise, he too has a beard! And a very talented "kraken" tongue. I loved the way she portrayed his character. So critical of himself. And trying so hard to live up to his parents expectations, and everyone else's. And he was not without his pride. He wasn't going to push anyone into anything they didn't want. I get that, as I'm much the same way. Loved everything about him, even his dietary restrictions! LOL.
However, I wasn't that "in love" with Rae, at least not at first. But she definitely grew on me by the end. She really had some maturing to do, and I felt that she finally did achieve that by the end. She was a bit too caught up in the Hollywood scene, and the social media at first, which I guess I could understand. She finally "grew up" though and won me over.
Looking forward to the rest of the series. Lots of great PR quotes in this. Honestly, she dazzles me sometimes in her way with words.
...as we traded stares, I couldn’t help but think, This guy, he’s not a snack. Deputy James—Jackson—he was a meal. And not a Thanksgiving meal or a dinner party get-together. He wasn’t someone to be saved for special occasions. He was an everyday favorite. No matter how many times or how often you partook, you always looked forward to the next time.
Jackson James is taco night.
And... yes, the Penny Reid magic just keeps on flowing. And I'm so happy to finally get a glimpse into the mind of Jackson James, the most often misunderstood deputy sheriff and brother of Jessica James. And what a surprise, he too has a beard! And a very talented "kraken" tongue. I loved the way she portrayed his character. So critical of himself. And trying so hard to live up to his parents expectations, and everyone else's. And he was not without his pride. He wasn't going to push anyone into anything they didn't want. I get that, as I'm much the same way. Loved everything about him, even his dietary restrictions! LOL.
However, I wasn't that "in love" with Rae, at least not at first. But she definitely grew on me by the end. She really had some maturing to do, and I felt that she finally did achieve that by the end. She was a bit too caught up in the Hollywood scene, and the social media at first, which I guess I could understand. She finally "grew up" though and won me over.
Looking forward to the rest of the series. Lots of great PR quotes in this. Honestly, she dazzles me sometimes in her way with words.
July 20, 2021
“Rae was magic, and I would always and forever believe in Rae.”
Totally Folked is the first book in the Good Folk: Modern Folktales series and follows sheriff's deputy Jackson James, who has already made several appearances in Penny Reid's books, and movie star Raquel Ezra.
If someone had told me when I first started reading the Winston Brothers series that I would love a book with Jackson James as the main character, I would never have believed it. But trust Penny Reid to prove me wrong! I enjoyed Totally Folked from beginning to end, and Jackson and Raquel's story captured my heart.
The chemistry between these two was very palpable, and I loved how their relationship was developed throughout the story. Jackson and Raquel shared many sweet and intense moments, and it was also great to have their friends help them open their hearts and root for them.
As individuals, Jackson and Rae were incredible characters. Jackson surprised me a lot, and it was great to finally get his POV and understand him better. He used to annoy me every time he made an appearance in one of the author's books, but reading his book didn't disappoint me. He is a wonderful, genuine, and charming character. I also loved Rae a lot! She is an amazing character, and it was impossible not to fall in love with her. I enjoyed following her journey in Green Valley and watching her figure out her path and what she really wants in life.
The friendship between Rae, Charlotte, and Sienna was also one of the highlights of this book. It was great to see how supportive they were of each other and how quickly they bonded. I hope we'll see more of that in the future! Also, the friendship between Cletus and Jackson!? I need more moments between these two!!
Overall, I really enjoyed Jackson and Raquel's story, and it's always awesome to return to Green Valley. I'm already looking forward to reading Charlotte and Hank's book and meeting new characters!
*ARC kindly provided by Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review
July 22, 2021
4.5 Dreamy Stars!
That's right, I said dreamy, because that's exactly what this book was. I am several books behind on my beloved Winston Brothers series, something I need to fix, pronto! But when I saw that the deputy sheriff we all love tohate find annoying was actually getting his own story, well I just could not resist. And, my God, am I so glad I didn't. This book was DELICIOUS, sweet, romantic, cozy...I absolutely adored it.
If you haven't read Penny's work before, this is the perfect book to start. We'd all met Officer Jackson James over the years, and while we were predisposed not to like him, he also seemed to have a sensitive side. I loved the way this story was told because we get POVs from both he and Raquel, and get to be in both their heads.
Raquel and Jackson meet at a Winston family wedding and share a one-night...connection. But they both make a lasting impression on one another.
It's five years later when Raquel finds herself back in Green Valley and figures, maybe they can go for some fun seconds...but can they?
Jackson is now a changed man and wants to do the honorable thing...and he’s been through a lot since that one hot night with Raquel. And Raquel is running from her big Hollywood life.
I could not get enough of these two. I'd forgotten how exquisite Penny's dialogue is, how real she makes her scenes feel. I felt for these two characters and their individual situations so much...my heart was burning, burning I tell you!! It's kind of a slow burn, even though they hooked up early on in the story, and it totally worked. Oh, the yearning and the pining!!
This was a gorgeous read with a perfect balance of emotional depth and humor. Call me greedy, but I do wish the H/h would've had more page time together. (At the 30% mark of the story, they had shared roughly one long scene together.) This was frustrating to me. I also get super stabby when others are continuously interrupting our hero/heroine. Like, SEVERAL times. These things kept this book from being truly perfect for me, but their interactions together were such GOLD that of course I wanted more.
Overall, I really liked Totally Folked and it reminded me of how much I enjoy this author's work.
I can't wait to read more of this new Modern Folktales series!
I was provided with an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
That's right, I said dreamy, because that's exactly what this book was. I am several books behind on my beloved Winston Brothers series, something I need to fix, pronto! But when I saw that the deputy sheriff we all love to
"My friend over there is a police officer, local law enforcement."
"Oh? Is he?" I asked
"He is." Sienna's brother-in-law nodded, his tone still formal. "And he's got handcuffs with him. Just FYI."
If you haven't read Penny's work before, this is the perfect book to start. We'd all met Officer Jackson James over the years, and while we were predisposed not to like him, he also seemed to have a sensitive side. I loved the way this story was told because we get POVs from both he and Raquel, and get to be in both their heads.
Raquel and Jackson meet at a Winston family wedding and share a one-night...connection. But they both make a lasting impression on one another.
"I thought I could seduce him and keep things tidy, I thought I could be his fantasy, I thought I’d been in control. I was not in control. Whatever this was—this pull, this heat and energy—I’d never felt anything like it. Not with anyone. He won. I surrendered."
It's five years later when Raquel finds herself back in Green Valley and figures, maybe they can go for some fun seconds...but can they?
Jackson is now a changed man and wants to do the honorable thing...and he’s been through a lot since that one hot night with Raquel. And Raquel is running from her big Hollywood life.
I could not get enough of these two. I'd forgotten how exquisite Penny's dialogue is, how real she makes her scenes feel. I felt for these two characters and their individual situations so much...my heart was burning, burning I tell you!! It's kind of a slow burn, even though they hooked up early on in the story, and it totally worked. Oh, the yearning and the pining!!
This was a gorgeous read with a perfect balance of emotional depth and humor. Call me greedy, but I do wish the H/h would've had more page time together. (At the 30% mark of the story, they had shared roughly one long scene together.) This was frustrating to me. I also get super stabby when others are continuously interrupting our hero/heroine. Like, SEVERAL times. These things kept this book from being truly perfect for me, but their interactions together were such GOLD that of course I wanted more.
Overall, I really liked Totally Folked and it reminded me of how much I enjoy this author's work.
I can't wait to read more of this new Modern Folktales series!
"If you haven't cried, your eyes can't be beautiful." - Sofia Loren
I was provided with an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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