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A jilted bride. A struggling innkeeper. And a romantic mountain getaway that changes everything.

Rising Hollywood star Mia Emerson is looking for a safe place to land in the wake of a public breakup and scandal, and she finds it in the lake town of Bluebell, North Carolina—the location of her canceled honeymoon. She wants nothing more than to hide and wait for the tabloids to die down.

Soon after her arrival at the Bluebell Inn, Mia meets Levi Bennett, who runs the inn along with his two younger sisters. Drawn to one another from the start, Mia trusts Levi to keep her location from the press, and Levi confides in Mia about the financial state of the inn—a secret he’s been keeping from his sisters.

When Mia and Levi discover an old journal that hints at a rare diamond necklace hidden in the inn, they set off on a treasure hunt to find the long-lost heirloom. What they don’t expect to surface are feelings they thought were safely locked away. Mia and Levi must decide if falling in love again is too big a risk—or if it will uncover a treasure of its own instead.

This Bluebell Inn romance takes us to a quiet North Carolina retreat that holds more secrets than it shares.

320 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2020

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About the author

Denise Hunter

79 books4,131 followers
Denise Hunter is the award-winning author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been adapted into Hallmark movies.

Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.

In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 437 reviews
Profile Image for Berit☀️✨ .
2,070 reviews15.7k followers
May 27, 2020
Romance, family, heart, and hope. Denise Hunter has written another Sweet cozy romance that made me smile. This is the second book in this delightful series and although it can absolutely be read as a standalone I would encourage you to read the previous book as well. Levi and his siblings are Busy running their family inn. Although Levi has not been completely upfront with his sisters the inn isn’t doing quite as well as he has led them to believe. But Levi is determined to honor his fathers dying words to take care of his sisters. Mia is a big-time movie star whose life is starting to fall apart. Her engagement has been called off and her name is now being drug through the tabloids. She needs a little getaway and why not take her honeymoon trip to that quaint North Carolina town by herself? It has already been paid for. Mia also has familial ties to Levi’s family inn. When Levi and Mia meet there is a instant spark that slowly ignites as the two get to know one another better. But what could this small town innkeeper and movie star possibly have in common?

I sure do love a well told small town romance. Levi and Mia were both likable characters and I really loved watching their relationship develope. I also loved Levi’s relationship with his sisters Molly and Grace. Molly was the focus of the previous book and I liked seeing her relationship continue in a positive direction. There is also the addition of a little family mystery in this book that was lots of fun. Another wonderful installment in this series excited to see what’s in store for Grace.

This book in emojis 🎬 🌲 🏨 💎 🛥 💍 🥾

*** Big thank you to Thomas Nelson for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Profile Image for Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader.
1,452 reviews182 followers
August 22, 2020
Set in Carolina what could be finer. As with all of Hunters books I read though this book so fast, (I hate that I do that) I loved the romance and the family dynamics and the setting and the plot, Can you all tell I am a HUGE Hunter fan? I don't give anything away, I want you to buy the book and devour it just like I did.
All I can say is I can't wait for book number three in A Bluebell Inn Series.
5 stars two times. I HIGHLY recommend this book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
Profile Image for Cara Putman.
Author 64 books1,841 followers
January 8, 2020
Somehow Denise Hunter makes each novel better than the last. It should be an impossible feat, but with Carolina Breeze, she does it again. Mia needs a place to escape, and Levi is simply trying to keep his family afloat. What they don’t realize is they need each other. Each page of this book gently tugged me to the next with characters so real they felt like friends. Add in tension, secrets, and romance, and Caroline Breeze was a book I could not put down. I highly recommend it to lovers of romance filled with characters who feel like friends by the final page.

LOVED every page. Such a good book with a great blend of characters and romantic tension.
Profile Image for Anna.
1,234 reviews122 followers
June 25, 2020
Welcome back to Bluebell, North Carolina.
Mia Emerson has just finished filming her latest movie. When her married co-star makes a move on her then claims she was the instigator, the scandal leaves her reeling. She flees to the Bluebell Inn, where she was supposed to be spending her honeymoon until her fiance called off the wedding. Mia is looking forward to some alone time to evaluate her life.
The Bluebell Inn is run by Levi Bennett and his two sisters, Molly and Grace. The chemistry is immediate between Mia and Levi, but each are warry of a relationship. Levi vows to keep Mia's whereabouts secret from public scrutiny, escorting her wherever she wanted to go. Mia's past has left her reluctant to share her inner self, but she finds herself letting down her guard around Levi. Coming from such different backgrounds can Mia and Levi allow themselves to let love blossom between them?
The setting is quaint and charming, and the story is sweet and romantic. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Sarah Grace Grzy.
629 reviews910 followers
February 6, 2020
These books make me so happy for some reason. Idyllic setting? Sweet, realistic, relatable characters? Slow-in-a-good-way plots? There's just something so perfect about these books.

I really loved Levi from the first book, so I was so excited to read his story. I could relate to his struggles to control everything and his need to make sure everything was handled. I loved his protectiveness of his sisters, even if it was overboard at times. Mia, also, was a really great character, and a lot different than I imagined the stereotype would be, which I enjoyed. Levi and Mia's romance was very sweet, despite a few too-heated kisses\attraction for me.

All in all, I greatly enjoyed Carolina Breeze, and I can't wait to read the conclusion of the series, even while I'm sad it's ending! I highly recommend this series if you love sweet romance, realistic characters, and idyllic summer settings.


FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Profile Image for Gloria.
990 reviews132 followers
May 14, 2020
This is the second in the Bluebell Inn Romance series where the story revolves around three siblings fulfilling their parents wish of turning their home into an inn on Bluebell Lake in North Carolina. In the first book, we heard Molly's story and now Carolina Breeze is about Levi. He promised his father on his deathbed to take care of his sisters, a promise that Levi takes very seriously, really too seriously for his own good. Mia Emerson was supposed to be spending her honeymoon at Bluebell Inn, an inn her grandparents once owned, but the engagement is off. She fled Hollywood to avoid a scandal and since the whole inn was booked by her ex, she decided to go to Bluebell Inn. Surely, she could lick her wounds and regroup.
Carolina Breeze is a sweet story of attraction and friendship but so much more. Bluebell Inn has a rich history that continues to be brought forth with a little mystery to solve. The characters are well developed and likable in a great setting of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Faith is an important part of the characters in this feel good story with challenges of paparazzi and running an inn in the black.. Another winner for Denise Hunter!
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
Profile Image for Randi Annie Framnes.
146 reviews248 followers
March 29, 2020
Carolina Breeze (Bluebell Inn Romance #2) by Denise Hunter is about Mia Emerson who is escaping Hollywood following a huge scandal. With her engagement broken, she goes on a solo honeymoon to Bluebell Inn, North Carolina, where ex-project manager and inn keeper Levi helps her stay away from the paparazzi while dealing with his own serious issues.

If you want a holiday read Carolina Breeze (Bluebell Inn Romance #2) by Denise Hunter is a great choice. It is a heartwarming, entertaining and light read which I’m sure will stay with me for a long time. The story is beautifully written, and I particularly appreciate the descriptions of life and nature around the lake.

I find main character, Mia Emerson, to be a very likable and nice person in a vulnerable situation who suffers loneliness, insecurities and heart aches like any other less famous person.
In spite of being a Hollywood celebrity she seems like the girl next door, and I enjoy the parts of the story describing how Mia learns to trust other people again, Levi in particular.

Levi Bennett, ex-construction project manager turned inn keeper, is afraid he will fail his sisters if he doesn’t reach all the goals he has set. His fear makes him overdo things and become controlling. He is a layered and true to life character and my favorite in this story.

I really enjoyed the setting of this story in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. It stood out to me, as I have not read anything set in this region before. I found the writing just beautifully heartwarming, easy flowing and enjoyable with plenty of references to fresh air, pine smell and outdoor living around the lake.

The mystery connected to Mia’s grandparents mixed into the plot I totally loved. It added an extra excitement to the story. Nice to see Mia got something other than the miserable state of her life to focus on when she was going about solving the mystery together with Levi.

In the midst of Mia’s messy life situation, the relationship with Levi got room to develop. I found the writing of the romance part very well done and expertly balanced between clean and intensely romantic.

In the middle of huge personal drama, Mia turned to God. She prayed on and off throughout the story. The faith element seemed to play a background part in this story, which was ok. -It was still there.

Carolina Breeze (Bluebell Inn Romance #2) by Denise Hunter had a light and summery vibe I enjoyed a lot. Mixed with Hollywood celebrity issues and topped with a mystery and a faith element, it all tied together in a nice and easily read little package.

Carolina Breeze (Bluebell Inn Romance #2) by Denise Hunter is the first work I have read by Denise Hunter. While I would have preferred to read Lake Season (Buebell Inn Romance #1) first, I jumped right into installment #2. Carolina Breeze worked perfectly as a standalone, but as I loved it so much I will definitely go back and read Lake Season (Buebell Inn Romance #1) in the Bluebell Inn Romance Series. I want to see what story line I may pick up from the beginning.

Fans of Denise Hunter will love this work, as will readers of contemporary women’s fiction. For similar reads it might be a good idea to check out Jody Hedlund's or Rachel Hauck's work.

Thank you to publisher Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for this eARC, which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Melanie.
2,170 reviews589 followers
March 22, 2020
Another fantastic read in the Bluebell Inn Romance series! I loved the first book, Lake Season, and picked up this book right after finishing that one. It made me see Levi in a different light...I can now see why he was sometimes overbearing about his sisters' decisions and actions.

Mia was a new character. Her story was heartbreaking. Even though you'd think she had everything (fame and money), she had to go through a public breakup AND a scandal based on lies that had everyone against her. I loved how Levi wanted to protect her privacy at the inn and didn't pry into her business.

All in all, Carolina Breeze was amazing. I enjoyed it even more than book one and I can't wait for the next book. :D

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Profile Image for Hannah.
2,583 reviews1,402 followers
March 12, 2021
I requested this book for review mainly because I had previously requested the first book in the series and I know Hunter's books often need to be read as complete series to get the full story. I didn't really read the back cover copy and thus didn't realize it was going to be about a Hollywood starlet, which is really not my thing.

The romance was sweet, but not spectacular, since I kept being sidetracked by the Hollywood fake drama and then Levi’s grumpy ways and refusal to tell his sisters about the true state of the business. It’s a great story for anyone who doesn’t mind those elements.

Romance: several very steamy kisses.

Thanks to the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
Profile Image for Emilee.
537 reviews110 followers
July 9, 2020
Liked it, didn’t love it. I always wonder when I don’t love a favorite author’s book if it’s me or the book. I’ve read almost all Hunter’s books and usually give 5 stars. Sometimes the mood or situation I’m in can keep me from enjoying a novel. I really can’t say though so I’m giving this 3 1/2 stars. The sibling dynamics was my favorite part in this romance.
Profile Image for Nursebookie.
2,602 reviews383 followers
June 12, 2020
I loved the first book in this series and I knew I wanted to register Bluebell Inn, the town and the great characters Denis Hunter created for her readers. I loved this so much! It was sweet and loved escaping for a few hours in this novel. Lovely read I recommend!
Profile Image for Asheley T..
1,476 reviews120 followers
June 11, 2020
4.5/5

I have loved every single thing I’ve ever read by Denise Hunter. Carolina Breeze is the second book in her Bluebell Inn series. This series follows the Bennett siblings who are operating the newly-opened Bluebell Inn in memory of their parents, who were killed just before the events of the previous book, Lake Season. The previous book featured Molly Bennett and Adam Bradford, a reclusive author who came to the Inn hoping to find inspiration to write his next book.

This story features older brother Levi Bennett, who is struggling with the cost of starting up a business like Bluebell Inn. He has tried to spare his sisters from the growing financial stress, but the weight of that secret is getting harder and harder. Things take an interesting turn when famous actress Mia Emerson comes to stay at Bluebird Inn for what was supposed to be her honeymoon. Unfortunately, her engagement has recently been broken off, and Mia’s stay at Bluebird Inn has more to do with avoiding a huge tabloid scandal involving her married costar than it does her own nonexistent marriage.

I would have been just like the Bennett siblings and seen Mia’s stay as an opportunity to draw up some excellent publicity. Imagine how exciting it would be to own a small business that is noticed by a celebrity? I love the way the Bennett siblings work to keep Mia’s stay absolutely private. I feel like they balanced their excitement over her celebrity status well with their desire to keep her safe and protected and happy. I was overjoyed to see that Levi and Mia got along so well together, even going so far as developing feelings for one another.

I loved the scenes involving Levi and Mia. Levi’s decision to be her personal chauffeur means that the two have plenty of on-page time together without any other characters, and it was during these times that their relationship began. I especially loved it when Mia would go hiking and Levi would drive her or even hike with her. And just like the previous story in this series, a little mystery pops up involving a journal and some old jewelry. Levi and Mia continue their page-time by working together to solve the mystery. Ms. Hunter is really great at establishing a lovely relationship between her characters, and I always find myself super emotionally invested by the end of the story.

The Bluebell Inn series is a strong one and I’ve enjoyed every page of the two books that have been published so far. I only wish I already had the next book in my greedy little hands!! I’m eager to find out more about Grace, the remaining Bennett sibling.


I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you, Thomas Nelson!

Find this review and more like it on my blog, Into the Hall of Books!
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,614 reviews184 followers
May 20, 2020
Oh, what a wonderful story! I loved the way Mia and Levi connected. The author did a great job of making me understand that Mia truly was a famous movie star and had to deal with so many problems related to the press. But at the same time, I was able to see her as just an ordinary young woman, who was attracted to a kind and caring man.

Although Levi carried a lot of burdens on his shoulders, some of his own making, I thought he was a great character. I loved the way Levi felt about Mia. He kept having to remind himself that she was a movie star, as his attraction to her grew throughout the novel. These two had things they both needed to work out in their lives, yet they really were a wonderful match for each other.

This book is a great addition to the Bluebell Inn series, and could probably be enjoyed without reading book one. However, the experience will definitely be richer if book one, Lake Season, is read first, because the two main characters in that novel have some special moments in Carolina Breeze, as well.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Sarah Monzon.
Author 25 books561 followers
May 22, 2020
4.5 stars

I feel really invested in this family, and, yes, I know they’re fictional. That just goes to show how well Denise Hunter write realistic characters! Levi and Mia didn’t perhaps have the swooniest story I’ve ever read but I could picture them as real people and their relationship unfolded in a natural and easy way. Loved that there wasn’t a lot of angst and drama. I can picture their relationship lasting for the long haul.
Looking forward to book 3 in the series.
Profile Image for Robin Hatcher.
Author 130 books2,940 followers
February 16, 2022
I can always count on Denise Hunter when it comes to contemporary romance. This story is warm and tender, and the characters believable. Okay, let me just say that Levi is a sigh-worthy hero. I'm so glad I got to spend time this summer at the Bluebell Inn with Mia and Levi.
Profile Image for Nicole.
851 reviews21 followers
March 24, 2020
Carolina Breeze by Denise Hunter is my idea of the perfect contemporary romance. I absolutely loved and enjoyed every minute of this story. This book has it all — an excellent plotline that’s highly engaging (I truly could not put this book down); wonderful characters who deal with unique, but relatable conflicts; and, timely themes. This book also employs my most favorite trope ever: the out-of-his-league girl who falls for the small-town guy. I adore this trope, and Ms. Hunter utilizes it perfectly in this story. Carolina Breeze is a home run, and I truly cannot recommend this novel enough.

Mia, the heroine of Carolina Breeze, is the out-of-his-league girl. She really does seem to have it all: a fantastic Hollywood career, money and prestige, and insanely good looks. And, she can take this excellentness one step further because she also has a pretty serious relationship with God. She is the whole package! But, while on the outside Mia seems like she has it all, she really struggles with loneliness, belonging, and allowing herself to trust. From a young girl, it appears everyone uses Mia to get what they want or need, and then dump her like yesterday’s garbage. She longs for a real relationship and a real family all her own, but how can she let down her guard and trust when so many have let her down so badly?

My heart really hurt for Mia. There were several times my mama-heart cried out and I wanted to hug her, especially after Levi’s seeming rejection. My most favorite moment in this story came when Mia pours her heart out to her friend, Sophie. Mia wants so desperately to be someone’s priority. She wants someone who looks at her and thinks, “Mia, you’re worthy of my time and attention.” Sophie compassionately reminds Mia that she already is Someone’s priority and that Someone is the greatest Someone that’s ever been. In a moment of crystal-clear realization, it hits Mia like a ton of bricks — she’s been acting as if God is not enough for her. With this new understanding, Mia is able to gather herself emotionally and is able to reprioritize her life to be more God-centered.

I adore Mia’s character. She’s an out-of-his-league girl for sure, but really she is just like me. I’ve been there before — whiny and lonely, only able to see what I don’t have. Desperately needing to refocus and reprioritize my life to be on God’s path. Needing His forgiveness, and then needing His guidance. What a fantastic and unique way to make the super popular, super pretty girl someone I can relate to! Seriously, Carolina Breeze is an exemplary novel.

Carolina Breeze is an all-around excellent story. The relationship that blooms between Mia and Levi is lovely — it’s sweet, it’s genuine, and it’s a bit steamy! I also love that I got to see more of Molly and Adam from Lake Season. And, the mystery surrounding the Carolina Breeze necklace adds an extra layer of awesomeness to this already awesome story. Carolina Breeze is a story I truly recommend. Add it to your TBR lists, pre-order your copy today, and when it releases in May I hope you devour it with as much gusto as I did.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, via NetGalley. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Fiction Aficionado.
659 reviews91 followers
June 2, 2020
~3.5 stars~

Although there wasn’t anything particularly original about the way this story unfolded, reading Carolina Breeze was a pleasant way to spend a few hours. It had several elements I enjoy in contemporary romance—the family dynamic between Levi and his two sisters, an idyllic location, and even a little mystery thrown in. Add in a Hollywood star on the run from scandal and you’ve got a little something extra to add some spice!

Mia and Levi were generally likeable characters, but for me, they were missing that extra something that would have taken them beyond romance book characters to life-like characters. Too, there were aspects of Levi’s character that I felt didn’t quite gel, in particular the way he went about taking on so much responsibility for the success of the inn and his sisters’ futures. The sense of responsibility itself wasn’t my issue so much as the way he acted on that sense of responsibility, which didn’t always feel natural for his character. But I enjoyed the way he and Mia slowly warmed to each other, and there’s plenty in their story to satisfy romance lovers.

For those who have read the first book in the series (I haven’t, but this book stands well on its own), there is a little bit of a continuation to Molly and Adam’s story as well. In theory, I didn’t mind this little sub-plot being woven in, but the way it played out felt contrived for the sake of added drama. Perhaps if I had read the previous book and therefore knew those characters better it would have seemed more believable, but it didn’t work for me.

Still, an enjoyable read overall, sure to satisfy many contemporary romance lovers.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Tamara.
830 reviews12 followers
November 6, 2020
Caroline Breeze of the Bluebell Inn Romance Series focused on Levi Bennett, and I really liked that it was focused on him. Don't get me wrong, I know most readers of romance- based novels are women, so it would make sense for one of the main characters to be female, but I liked seeing and knowing Levi's side of things. It showed his vulnerabilities and weakness and it appealed to me a lot! I really enjoyed this one, looking forward to Grace's story.
Profile Image for Laura.
597 reviews122 followers
January 7, 2021
I almost abandoned this series after finding the first book in the series a miss for me, but I’m glad I picked the audio up and gave this second novel a chance. I liked Levi’s story much better than Molly’s. This story had open communication going on and I value that in stories. I still didn’t care for Molly, but I liked seeing how the three siblings were learning to work together at the Inn, and also respect each other as adults. This audio was an enjoyable experience, and now I’m looking forward to Grace’s story.
Profile Image for Nicole.
381 reviews
May 21, 2020
Originally posted on Inkwell Inspirations

“There were three women in the house, and they were all mad at him for different reasons. That took a special kind of talent.”

Carolina Breeze, the second installment in Denise Hunter’s Bluebell Inn Romance series, takes readers to the beautiful and peaceful town of Bluebell, North Carolina. Denise Hunter has been one of my favorite contemporary romance authors for years, and she continues to amaze me with her incredible writing skills and her ability to create realistically flawed characters that her readers will fall in love with. Lake Season, the first book in the series, was an enjoyable read, but Carolina Breeze easily rises to the top of the list as one of my favorite Denise Hunter books.

Levi Bennett will capture the readers’ hearts with his handsome movie star good looks, his confidence and sense of humor, and his caring, honest personality. The stress he faces as he feels responsible for his younger adult sisters following the death of their parents while trying to run the financially struggling inn endears him to readers as they root for him to get his happy ending. Levi is now one of my favorite heroes of Denise Hunter’s, only second to my all-time favorite hero of hers, Wade Ryan in A Cowboy’s Touch.

In a story that is reminiscent to the movie Notting Hill, famous movie star Mia Emerson finds herself at the Bluebell Inn in North Carolina after a scandal forces her to flee the paparazzi in Hollywood and meets handsome “regular guy” Levi who is running the local inn. Sparks begin to fly between the two, but time will tell if their differences are too great to overcome.

Mia’s belief that she was unworthy of love and her realization that God loves her and would never abandon her authentically weaves the spiritual thread into the storyline. Carolina Breeze is very highly recommended for fans of contemporary romance, especially readers who have enjoyed books by authors such as Courtney Walsh and Becky Wade.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

“If I didn’t know better, I’d think you left your heart in North Carolina.”
Profile Image for Amy.
684 reviews40 followers
January 18, 2020
As this story began I wondered how on earth Mia was going to end up at the Bluebell Inn. Cleverly put together from the start - there’s a little of the ‘Notting Hill’ feels with this one.

What a wonderful development of this series, that has a unique feel to it. This family of siblings left without parents is something I can relate to. Left trying to make the best decisions they know how, though mistakes are inevitably made and relationships damaged.

The continuation of the story with Molly and Adam was lovely too. I always like it when stories don’t end with one book.

Levi is an honorable man, and to be fair - coming from the world that Mia lives in, he needs to be everything that Hollywood is not.

Beautiful story, looking forward to Grace’s side of things. She’s a character we’ve gotten glimpses of, adventurous and willing to be a little more of a risk taker.

Thank you to Netgalley for the eARC. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Lucinda.
Author 22 books1,307 followers
January 15, 2020
I'm loving this series about the Bennett siblings and their inn in Bluebell, North Carolina.

This is Levi's story. He's the oldest and feels responsible for his sisters, Molly and Grace. He also bears the responsibility of the inn's financial status and he's keeping the truth from his sisters.

Mia goes to Bluebell to flee a scandal, hoping to lay low and away from the public eye for a while. As Levi starts driving her around and doing small errands to help her, they develop a friendship.
Little by little, they turn out to be the person the other needs. Mia's situation turns more precarious and Levi becomes her protector and supporter. She becomes his confidante. I loved going along for he ride as they fall in love.

I loved the setting, the town and the inn, and all the returning characters. There's also a mystery involving the history of the inn, just like in the first book. The writing is excellent and the relationships between the characters make this story a beautiful one.

I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

Profile Image for Rachel McDaniel.
Author 10 books573 followers
June 9, 2020
When I crack open a Denise Hunter story, I KNOW I’m in for a spectacular journey! Carolina Breeze, book 2 of the Bluebell Inn Series, is NO exception. First off, I adored the setting! A historic inn next to a lake? Set in the mountains? Yes, please! That's my favorite atmosphere in real life, and so it's a no brainer that I would absolutely love this setting. Also, the author does a spectacular job of placing you in the scene. You can almost inhale the mountain air!

What I also been lovin’ about her recent novels is that they've included a sliver of mystery among the juicy romance! It's such a great combination!

In true Denise Hunter fashion, the sparks between the main characters register at conflagration proportions. I caught a glimpse of Levi in Lake Season, and I couldn’t wait for his story. It was so much fun seeing cool, level-headed Levi get completely flustered by Mia’s presence. And just to warn future readers, grab a fainting couch or **at least** a fan for the kiss scene. It is amazing!

All in all, this is a charming story that is sure to delight. I totally recommend it.

I got a copy through NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Robin Kirk.
179 reviews52 followers
August 21, 2020
I liked this book even better than the first! Levi is bossy but has a good heart. And he’s very caring for the women in his life. He and Mia were perfect together and their search for the Carolina Breeze was fun. I loved how both of their characters grew along the way. They learned to trust and let go of what needed to be let go of in their lives. I cannot wait to read Grace’s story. So far, a wonderful series!
Profile Image for CarolynB.
610 reviews
May 21, 2020
This, the second book in the Bluebell Inn series is almost as good as the first. Now I can’t wait for book three! This one featured Levi, the brother who was trying too hard to fulfill his father’s last wishes. This is a great series; Denise Hunter is a gifted writer.
Profile Image for Maggie Carr.
1,208 reviews34 followers
July 5, 2020
Gaaaa I just love the Bennett family. While Levi and Mia's love story could be read as a standalone, it is much better as the second in the series since Adam and Molly's story continues in Carolina Breeze. I hadn't anticipated reading it cover to cover in 24-hours, but good books are hard to set aside. Can't wait for the third installment due out this fall.
June 1, 2020
I haven’t read a Denise Hunter novel since I read the Chapel Springs Romance Series - which is excellent by the way. And now, I am asking myself why I waited so long! I really enjoyed everything about this wonderful sweet romance! I loved the setting and the premise and I can’t wait to go back and read Molly and Adam’s story, Lake Season. I’m also looking forward to reading Autumn Skies, the third book in this trilogy which comes out in October.

I loved Levi! Like Mia said, he has a beautiful heart. After the death of their parents, Levi took over the role of parent to his two sisters and the pressure of getting the family inn up and running and profitable. Even though he may have made mistakes along the way, his heart was always in the right place. I loved Levi and Mia’s relationship. It progressed naturally and there were no silly misunderstandings or lack of communication. I thought they were perfect for each other! I also really liked the family dynamics between Levi, Grace and Holly. This is a perfect summer read! I highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Living My Best Book Life.
880 reviews87 followers
June 4, 2020
Carolina Breeze is a sweet romance about faith, hope, and love. It was so adorable and easy to read that I didn't want to put it down. Mia and Levi are beautiful characters and made this story perfection.

This is my first time reading Denise Hunter and I absolutely loved it. Mia is a super famous actress that is going through a scandal and was dumped by her fiance. She decides to go to Bluebell Inn in North Carolina. That is where she and her fiance were supposed to go on their honeymoon. The inn is special to her and has a family history that she so desperately wants to learn more about.

As soon as he walks in, she notices the handsome innkeeper named Levi. He has been preparing and pulling out all the stops for Mia thinking she is still going to be on her honeymoon. Levi is so attentive and caring and realizes that something is off with Mia.

He finds out about her drama and wants to help. They start to spend more time together going on hikes, enjoying the scenery, and even going on a treasure hunt to find her grandmother's valuable necklace.

I adored the friendship between Mia and Levi. It started off so innocent and once real feelings blossomed it made it feel so pure. They were able to open up like they never had before and let out their hopes, dreams, fears, and even chat about their faith.

I give Carolina Breeze 5 stars. It is a charming story set in a magnificent town. Mia searched for one thing in her life and that was to be loved. She finally felt that feeling and the journey she took alongside Levi was magical.
Profile Image for Cecelia.
Author 43 books181 followers
July 19, 2020
Movie star Mia Emerson is spending her honeymoon, alone, at the Bluebell Inn. Suffering through a broken engagement, and untrue tabloid rumors, she’s anxious to spend some time alone on her honeymoon. After all, the Bluebell Inn used to belong to her grandparents. She longs for a nice, loving family since she’s never had any strong familial roots in her life.

Innkeeper Levi is stunned when movie star Mia Emerson stays at his family’s inn. She’s beautiful and they hit it off so well…but Levi has a lot of problems – both familial and financial.

I thought that both Mia and Levi had a lot of emotional baggage to work through. Both of them had deceased (or estranged) parent(s) – and the deaths/estrangement of their parent(s) caused strife in their lives. Family problems can filter down to generations, which can prove hurtful.

A secret necklace and a diary were added twists to this lovely story. It was also different to see a famous person as a heroine. I seldom see famous folks in romance novels. From my experience, publishers tend to shy away from movie star characters. I believe they (publishers) shy away from that subject matter because readers cannot relate to being a famous person.

I felt that Mia was relatable since most of her struggles dealt with familial issues – and lots of folks have family problems.
Profile Image for Becky of Becky's Bookshelves .
567 reviews69 followers
June 1, 2020
Carolina Breeze by Denise Hunter is all that a romance should in the second book of the Bluebell Inn series. Denise Hunter does not disappoint with a wonderful setting, great characters, some mystery, and a lovely romance. Her main character, Mia is looking for a place to escape her life, and Levi, our hero, is trying desperately to do what his dying father asked and keep his family together. The two of them fight the demons of their past and try to work to change their future. It was a great story with a satisfying ending that I can highly recommend.
I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
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