✦Review, Q&A & Giveaway: JACKSON: Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas by Emily March https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-b9v
Publication Date: June 25, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4.5 Stars

I loved this spin-off from the Eternity Springs Series, it was the perfect segue and kept me wanting more. If you’ve read the Eternity Springs books, you know that Celeste is like an earth-bound-fairy-godmother. She wove her magic and put two hurting souls together so they could lean on each other in writing the next chapters of their lives. Jackson and Caroline were likeable from the start, making my heart smile as they moved from strangers, to friends, to lovers. Their friends and family brought banter to a fun level, making me want to move into town and shove my way in. No danger, no hot and heavy sex….just a sweet love story that still has me smiling.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Kindle https://amzn.to/31Nc4tL

It has been quite a while since I read this author and this one seems to be a spin-off of another series. I will be honest and say I have not read that series but did not feel lost in this one as there is a lot, and I mean a lot of introduction of characters and we meet everyone in the town of Redemption, Texas. That just sounds like the place to go when you need to start over doesn't it. Jackson is newly divorced and it is not an easy one and his ex is not allowing him to see his daughter but his aunt has passed and he is one of the heirs of a large piece of land in this Texas town which gives him somewhere to go. Caroline's life is whirling out of control with her husband in the end stages of Alzheimer and putting him in assisted living when she is offered an opportunity in Redemption, Texas, and she jumps at the chance. This brings these two together. This turns out to be a clean romance (yea, I read a clean romance) but will I continue the series? that remains to be seen...

**Received this ARC for review from the publisher via NetGalley**

This is the first book in a new series, which is a sidestep from the Eternity Springs series.
While I haven't read anything of the Eternity Spring series, I felt that this book could be read as a standalone or start in this new series. I suppose if I had read the other series, I may have had a bit of "background" to the characters.
This story has lots of highs and low, and in tragedy, love for family is number one.

I feel that the story is more along the lines of a Chic Lit, and not full romance story, but is certainly a lovely story to read and I found myself drawn in and looking forward to the next in the series. I may even look at reading the Eternity Springs series.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I hadn’t read any of the Eternity Springs series by this author, so all the characters were new to me, but that didn’t matter in the bigger scheme of things. There were times that it was apparent that there was backstory somewhere, but I never felt lost in the plot or like I was missing anything. I got caught up in the descriptions of Enchanted Canyon and its surrounding area. They were so vivid that I found myself wishing that I could go there on vacation. I love it when an author brings a region and its inhabitants to life like that. I liked Jackson’s description of his music as well (I could relate), and the romance part of the plot was charming. It was a soothing read, and I look forward to more from this author. Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and the author for a complimentary pre-release digital ARC of this book.

Jackson by Emily March is so named because of one of the main characters in the book, Jackson McBride. It is the first of The McBrides of Texas Trilogy which is spin-off of the Eternity Springs Series. It is a long distance from Colorado to Texas but it is all explained in the beginning of the story. Besides Jackson was living in Nashville before going to Redemption. Also the two other cousins are introduced who I hope will receive their own stories to round out the trilogy.

Jackson reads more as woman’s fiction with a big, big portion of romance on the side. I say this because there is a lot of life that happens between family, community and within individual characters that has nothing directly to do with Jackson’s and Caroline’s relationship. However, like romance books it does give a happy ending for the main characters though not exactly asone might have predicted.

This lovely story is one of new beginnings, giving up regrets, granting forgiveness, and coming to terms with things that can’t be changed. Celeste Blessings sums up this story best when talking with Jackson’s cousin, Boone, “And remember, Boone, the trick to breaking the chains of the past is to reject it as your master and embrace it as your teacher.” Words to the wise for us all.

An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Tormented souls meeting in Redemption, TX.

Caroline had a marriage at first calm and good, until her husband changed because of illness. She became so dedicated to him that she eventually lost herself.
She goes to Redemption to accompany Celeste...

Jackson lost almost everything in life when faced with a difficult divorce.
Unbeliever of love - and lost in the inspiration of his art - he goes for Redemption in search of healing his wounds.
That's when the two meet.

Two halves of a broken heart, could they become a whole heart? Would there be a possibility of a new chance for love?

Interesting, dramatic plot.
3,5 stars

I love Emily March books, and have been reading her for years now. I have always said that I wanted to live in Eternity Springs. This book starts a spin off series set in Redemption, TX and involves the McBrides who are related to others living in Eternity Springs. If this is your first book,you will not be lost, but if you have read the EternitySprings books you will recognize several of the characters. This book has the feel of a small town romance with the main character being Caroline, a widow, who comes to Redemption. Jackson is a big part of the the book, but for me this book was about the relationship of women who rally around each other and give them strength. Another beautiful read, and i will be looking forward to more of this new series.

Time moves slowly in Redemption Texas. It is where people go to heal there broken heart. The story takes place over approximately a two year period. Jackson has been hurt and has a new venture while he works on healing. Caroline is also starting over in Redemption after the death of her husband. Together they find that there is life after hurt. This a sweet small town romance that explores plenty history and the heart of the people.

The McBrides of Texas trilogy is, in a way, a part of the overall Eternity Springs series – yet, you could pick up this first book as if starting a new series because any mention of the other residents that make up the Eternity Springs stories is clearly identified in dialogue or narrative in a way that makes perfect sense. In any event, most of the stories in that original series could stand on their own so it’s easy to get caught up in each individual story. I’ve previously read some of the Eternity Springs series (not all) and I had no difficulty keeping everyone straight. I will say though that JACKSON is a story you will have to give a bit of time to before the true romance of this story shows itself. Not giving away more than that, but give it time and see how things progress – that’s the best hint I can give without spoilers.

Both Jackson and Caroline have experienced harsh tragedies in their lives, and those events have left a mark on them in different ways. They’ve come to Redemption to start life over again never thinking of finding love simply living their lives as best they can. But never, ever underestimate the healing that Redemption, Texas can have on any person or situation.

I enjoyed JACKSON very much, although I do think it borders the line between Women’s Fiction and Contemporary Romance. We’ll run into old friends from the Eternity Springs series, the beginning of a new chapter for Jackson and his brothers, some quirky and adorable secondary characters, a slow burn romance that may turn into a happy forever kind of love, and an overall great introduction to this trilogy within the series.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

My first read by the author and I wasn't blown away but I still liked the story.

Caroline and Jackson have had a rough few years and they were floating around without a sense of purpose or direction.

This story or better yet writing style of it it's not what I usually read and I was having a bit of a hard time as times to catch up with the storyline because there is a lot of internal conversation. This is a story about finding strength to start your life all over again and keeping your head above water.

All in all it was an OK read and I'm giving it a light 4*.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for my unbiased opinion of the book. Caroline Carruthers is moving to Redemption on a wing and a pray hoping to open a new business since becoming a widow. She also is trying to let go of the past and forge a new future for herself alone. Jackson McBride whom she met on earlier trips through the town makes it increasingly difficult to maintain her single ways. He is trying to keep his head on straight while his ex-wife keeps dangling his daughter's visitation schedule in front of him and changes it at her will. It makes him believe he will want to ever get married, period! When they keep running into each other sparks fly. For everyone who loves Eternity springs, there is a healthy dose of Celeste in the book and a few characters from that time to help you not miss our favorite town too much. Emily loving the new series can't wait to read more!

Jackson has just finalized a brutal divorce, but it was the outcome of the devastating custody case for his six year old daughter Haley that cuts the deepest. To make matters worse his creativity when it comes to songwriting is non-existent so when he and his brothers inherit some land in Redemption, TX it seems like the new beginning he needs.

The first time that Caroline came to Redemption, TX it was to write an article for her travel blog which is when she originally met Jackson when he came to her assistance on the most painful day of her life. She enjoyed the atmosphere of the town so much that when her husband passed away she returned to start over and open the book shop she had always dreamed about.

There is a chemistry and connection between them but both of them have a lot of healing to do before they can even consider a relationship. A friendship develops and along the way she inspires him to create music and he makes her feel for the first time since her husband passed away. This is a heartwarming story about love, romance and healing.

Jackson by Emily March is a beautifully written tale. It has an uplifting story that broke and mended my heart. I fell in love with the main characters instantly. Jackson and Caroline had my sympathy and support from the beginning to end. Jackson's marriage didn't end well. He turned away from love and all the happiness it could bring. His heart was torn and destroyed. Until he met, Caroline. Caroline inspires new faith in this handsome man who needs healing and love. Caroline is no different. She too, is hurting and didn't expect to find the happiness and love that Jackson brings out in her. It was amazing to follow these adults as their relationship grew. Emily March writes well. I was hooked with this book. The cast of characters brings a variety of flavors that only added to the overall taste. Rich, charming, and heartfelt, this was one unforgettable read. Overall, I highly recommend it to all.

Jackson is the start of a new trilogy, a Texas spinoff from the popular Eternity Springs series, which takes place in Colorado. The usual healing romance ensues, another good love story from March. I advise you to read at least a few of the Eternity Springs books before this one, and yes, Miss Em has read them all. The Texas setting is not all that's new here. The Eternity Springs books all have one character who connects them all, and indeed the entire town of Eternity Springs and the residents we haven't met yet: Celeste Blessing, an elderly woman of mystery, who acknowledges the grace and grit of overcoming obstacles to love and fulfilling life. In this book, that mystery deepens, as we meet her cousin Angelica, who seems to be as different from Celeste as chalk to cheese. We do not find out much back story there, but we do find a couple who are going to make love work and make a little girl very happy. Recommended if you like the Eternity Springs books! (I received an advance digital copy for review purposes, thanks to St. Martins and Netgalley.)

Emily March has yet to write a book I don’t love. Her books are an auto read for me and she hasn’t disappointed once since I found the first Eternity Springs book eight years ago. With quintessential small-town charm, quirky characters who are larger than life, a little humor and a huge dose of heart, these are stories that have become a part of me.

Welcome to Redemption, Texas, a place where troubled souls can find peace just a short distance from Ruin. Near the Enchanted Canyon, with its healing powers, stands the Last Chance Saloon and Dance Hall and the Fallen Angel Inn. Now, if you're thinking of another angelic inn in Eternity Springs, CO, and wondering if this might be a coincidence, rest assured, it is not.

When the three McBride cousins inherit the property by the canyon from a great aunt, Jackson, Tucker and Boone (yes, that Boone from Eternity Springs) decide to give the buildings new life and create a tourist destination. What better choice could there be to help them get their inn up and running than Celeste Blessing and her cousin Angelica. Lest you think Angelica is a carbon copy of Celeste, I assure you, that’s the furthest thing from the truth. These two ladies are night and day and seem to spend most of their time butting heads. Who knew there was another soul in existence who would disagree with Celeste? But it makes for some delightfully entertaining reading, and truthfully, we fallen angels relate much better to a fellow fallen angel than a perfect one.

But just as in Eternity Springs, the Enchanted Canyon draws in troubled souls who find healing, peace and redemption in the shadow of its towering rocks and cooling waterfalls. Caroline Carruthers has endured more hardship than most people, and when Redemption, TX, calls to her, she moves to town to open a bookstore.

If there's anyone in desperate need of healing, it’s Jackson McBride, bless his heart. His divorce has left him angry and bitter with a gaping hole in his heart. He has no trouble making the trip to Redemption from Nashville. There's nothing to hold him there and his song-writing muse deserted him long ago. But when he meets Caroline, the lyrics somehow seem to come to him. Of course, neither is ready for a relationship since both are still bruised and battered, but having a friend might be a nice change.

Eternity Springs is one of my all-time favorite series and this first book of the McBrides fits in beautifully. If you haven't yet read Emily March, you’re really, really missing out. With perfectly placed humor (“Bless Your Heart" drinking game, anyone?), unique characters you can’t help but love, and an abundance of heart-tugging and happy-sighing scenes, March delivers an enchanting, addictive, satisfying read!

*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.

The perfect second chance romance! While Caroline gets to live my dream of owning a bookstore, Jackson shares my mentality on love, so this book was very cathartic for me. A well-written story of finding love, even after two different kinds of loss. This was my first book by this author and I'll definitely be looking for more!

This is the first book in the Redemption, TX trilogy. It is listed as a stand-alone but there are characters from March's Eternity Spring, CO series. I haven't read the Eternity Springs series but I did ok with this book.

This is a slow-build up friends-to-sweet romance story. Jackson and Caroline are in Redemption for different reasons....but finding each other could be the best reason of all. I loved the secondary characters as well. And even the town seemed like a character all on its own.

A sweet, heart-warming story. Full of friendship, love, angst, tears-both happy and sad, and mostly....redemption. I fell into it (and the town) and didn't want to leave.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, St. Martin's Press, via NetGalley. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or remuneration.

First of like a lot of reviews. Im not sure i would class this as romance. The actual romance part wasnt that big, in my opinion. When we first meet Caroline she is visiting her husband in the Easterwood Memory Care Center. Its Caroline and Roberts wedding anniversary, upset that her husband doesn't remember her. She leaves the center,bumping into Celeste Blessing who is taken unwell. Celeste is due to go Redemption, Texas to do some research on the town. Caroline offers to take her place.
Also heading to Redemption is Jackson, battling a custody case with his ex. Jackson is not in a good place,when he looses the case. He has lost everything. Cant even write music anymore. Heading to Redemption to meet his cousins to see the land a relative has left them. Both our heroine and hero are feeling dispirited when they meet for the first time. Even so they can feel the start of a connection.
When Caroline's husband passes away. She packs up her things and heads to Redemption to start a new life. Opening up a bookstore is the first step in her new life. Jackson is busy renovating the last chance saloon as well as the inn. As they both work at moving on in their new lives. Can they learn to take a chance on each other? An enjoyable read, i loved reading about the town and its residents.
Emily March did a good job at describing it all. Look forward to reading more. Recommended for fans of chick lit. ARC requested from Net Galley in exchange for a voluntary review.

A wonderful start to the McBrides of Texas series, a spin-off from Eternity Springs by gifted author Emily March with unforgettable characters you root for and a beautifully written story that kept me totally immersed in all that was happening in Redemption, Texas, from the first word to the last. I loved the attraction, undeniable chemistry, repartee, and heartwarming romance between Jackson and Caroline.

This is a perfect read to escape the stress of everyday for anyone who enjoys well-crafted romance and I look forward to reading more from Ms. March. I received an advance reader copy of JACKSON from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest review.

Emily March’s novel Jackson is fabulous! The author’s descriptive writing sets the scene for this novel of second chances. I could envision the waterfall in the Enchanted Canyon, the rugged Last Chance Saloon and the rooms in the Fallen Angel Inn. The McBride cousins, Caroline and Angelica are not perfect; each has issues to resolve. I was drawn into the story because the characters and their stories were relatable.
Songwriter Jackson McBride has hit bottom. His ex-wife has obtained full custody of their daughter. And to make matters worse, she has issued a restraining order against him. The legal bills have emptied Jackson’s bank account and he is at a standstill artistically—he hasn’t written a music lyric in months. He accepts an invitation and meets his cousins Boone and Tucker in Redemption, Texas. I loved how Jackson grabbed the lifeline Boone tossed him.
Caroline Carruthers husband is in a memory care center. She meets Celeste Blessing outside of the center and helps Celeste to a bench. Celeste gives Caroline a bit of advice; she tells her that “when you stand on your own, you stand tallest.” Celeste works her magic and Caroline agrees to travel to Redemption, Texas to write an article for a travel magazine.
Sparks fly when Jackson and Caroline meet--- Jackson sees Caroline and a lyric begins to form in his head. He realizes that he might be able to write music again. Caroline is trying her best to accept that her husband doesn’t remember her and she needs to move forward with her life.
Emily March does a fabulous job portraying Caroline and Jackson’s inner conflicts. Jackson put his anger behind him and stepped up to handle a tragic event. Caroline grieved for her husband and their life together. She came to understand that she could start over, moved to Redemption and opened a bookstore. Loved Jackson and Caroline’s friends to lovers romance – the slow burn worked perfectly for this couple. Caroline knows in her heart that what they have is special and her trust in Jackson is tested several times in the novel.
I enjoyed the bantering between Celeste and her cousin Angelica, the characters of Boone, Tucker and Maisy and the small town feel of Redemption. The author writes a fabulous epilogue for the couple and hints at Boone and Tucker’s stories.
Second chance romances are my favorite—and Emily March has hit a homerun with Jackson! The novel has all the feels-the beautiful setting, the charming characters and their heartfelt stories will captivate you.