Loyally Luke is the third book in a series by the author following the jet-setting romances of a set of "siblings" (choosing to use the phrase used by this particular character). This book follows the POV of Luke, who appears to be a gruff guy who actually has a lot of soft spots. He's a cinnamon roll who finally gets his HEA, even after being willing to step aside for the sake of other's happiness (and a personal sense of obligation). What's sets this book apart from the others in the series is that it is mostly focused from the perspective of our main love interests. While we do see it, there is less communication and plot movement from text messages (whereas in the previous books emails were mostly used). While one can argue that this is possibly falling into a stereotype (guys don't write letters or emails), this is actually a character trait that is consistent with our male protagonist (in the previous books he often doesn't answer his messages or gives short responses). I actually really appreciated the fact that there were less text message/email correspondence in this book because it didn't force me to make a mental shift while reading the book. Plus, the transitions were much more seemless in comparison.

Enjoyable book with lovable characters in a fun setting.

What a fun conclusion to Pepper Basham's epistolary series!

I've been waiting for Luke's story for a while now, and it didn't disappoint! In fact, I think it's my favourite book of the whole series.

Luke returns to Skymar to work for Mr. Gray (who we meet in book two). In addition to renovating an isolated cottage in the North Country, Mr. Gray has a secret project for Luke. Readers are dropped into the North Country, surrounded by lovely mountains and a town that prides itself in providing a safe haven for the royals. With vivid descriptions, it's easy to imagine the town and the beauty in this particular part of Skymar.

A castle, an orphanage, and a mismatched work crew keep Luke's story interesting. As Luke gets to know his crew and the orphans he's helping, readers will fall in love with the grumpy carpenter all over again. And not everyone is who they appear to be...

Texts and emails between the family continues the fun banter of previous books in epistolary form, broken up by an easy narrative in each chapter.

I'm sad to say good-bye to Skymar and the Edgewood family. It was a great trilogy. Unique stories that I look forward to reading again. And again.

This story has it all - royalty, grumpy/sunshine, secret identity, slow-burn/office romance, with all the fun hallmarks of a Hallmark film (pun intended!).

I highly recommend reading books one and two before reading Luke's story as there are a lot of references unfamiliar readers may miss.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Thank you NetGalley, Pepper Basham and Thomas Nelson for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review. received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Pepper Basham's "Loyally, Luke" offered me ffered me a delightful escape into the world of Luke and Ellie. With its endearing characters, relaxed atmosphere, and plot peppered with humor and heart, this novel was a cute romance to read.

Luke immediately drew me in with his lovable charm, humor, and warmth. His interactions with Ellie, the equally endearing heroine, felt authentic and affectionate, despite the predictable nature of their unfolding romance.
While Luke stole the spotlight with his charisma, I found myself wishing for more fleshed-out background details for Ellie, particularly concerning her friends and family. Nevertheless, her likability shone through, adding depth to the narrative and complementing Luke's character.

Basham's portrayal of the setting set a relaxed atmosphere, though I struggled at times to fully envision certain locations, such as Skymar. However, the author's descriptive prose effectively captured the essence of the region, enhancing my overall reading experience.

The narrative structure with intermittent text messages aadded an engaging layer to the plot. While the storyline was somewhat predictable, Basham skillfully integrated this predictability into the narrative, making it feel organic and enhancing my enjoyment.

While the initial intrigue may have been lacking, the story gained momentum as it progressed, culminating in a satisfying resolution. While the Hallmark-esque logic may not appeal to all readers, I found "Loyally, Luke" to be a charming and "cute" romance that offered a satisfying blend of humor, heart, and mostly relatable characters.

In conclusion, "Loyally, Luke" provided me with a delightful escape, drawing me into its world of love and royality. Pepper Basham's narrative prowess shines through, making this novel a memorable addition to the genre.

Rating: 3-3,5

I want to thank the publisher for giving me a chance to read this book. After seeing the over art and reading the description, I thought I would really like this book, but it just didn’t draw me in like I hoped.

I have been totally captivated by the Edgewood family in the Skymar series. While the fictional island is a place I would love to visit, the Edgewood family is one I would love to claim as my own. Luke is by far my favorite Edgewood, and that is saying a lot. Luke is thoroughly grounded in his faith. His no-nonsense common sense, makes him a steady influence on all he meets. I love his big heart. He is a knight-in-shining-armor in all the best ways. Luke's inner monologue and dry wit will have readers laughing out loud.

A favorite laugh-out-loud quote: ' Luke was teetering very close to the t word from Bambi-he shuddered, almost hearing Penelope say "twitterpated" in his mind...".

Readers will fall in love with Princess Ellie and root for her as she struggles to overcome her past.

While I consider this the perfect romcom, there are many moments that have depth. Another favorite quote : "My granny once said that love is much stronger than any feeling. It's a choice you make over and over again. Choosing her and what's best for her every day. "

Coming from two different worlds, Luke realizes that his romance with Ellie might be doomed from the start. Looking forward to catching another glimpse of Skymar and the Edgewood family in the future.

***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Enthralled by a romantic odyssey, Luke Edgewood, a down-to-earth man's man, unexpectedly encounters a series of rom-com movie tropes while falling for a genuine princess on Skymar Island. Unaccustomed to romantic notions, Luke, who usually enjoys a quiet life behind the scenes, becomes immersed in a romantic, trope-filled narrative during his restoration work on abandoned buildings.

Embarking on this eARC journey with no prior knowledge of the series or author, I seamlessly navigated the storyline, overcoming the absence of familiarity with side characters and their backgrounds. The author's distinctive writing style incorporates significant portions of texting dialogue among the main characters and their friends/siblings. Initially skeptical, I came to appreciate how this unconventional approach added a unique twist to the story, propelling the plot forward.

For fans of Hallmark movies, wholesome tales, and low-angst romances, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. My sincere appreciation to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing the opportunity to delve into this eARC.

Luke and Ellie… **swoon**. Read if you like hallmark movies, princesses, handsome and sweet carpenters, closed door romances and happily ever after.

This was a fun, sweet read that hit a lot of my favorite romance tropes in a refreshing and self aware way, I loved the way Luke’s sisters were included throughout the story and Luke and Ellie are so likable that you are rooting for their HEA throughout the whole story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Pepper saved the best for last!

In the book Loyally, Luke by Pepper Basham, Luke Edgewood is the stoic, sometimes grumpy, flannel-wearing brother of the Edgewood siblings. He travels to Skymar, a small European country, for a set of construction jobs and ends up meeting his match in Elliana St. Clare. Ellie is a reformed princess who wants to prove she loves her country and is truly a new person with her royal priorities in line. When she meets Luke, a carpenter from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, she appreciates that he sees the “real” her—not the princess she has to be or used to be.

Pepper Basham’s delightful humor and dynamic characters shine in Loyally, Luke. I love the glimpses of Luke’s spunky sisters and cousin as they offer him unsolicited romantic advice via texts. The village locals and orphanage children of Crieff, the Skymarian village Luke is working in, are lovable and heartwarming secondary characters. Luke and Ellie’s budding romance had me cheering them on the whole way. Thank you, Pepper, for another great story. I have added Loyally, Luke to my list of favorites.

While you can read Loyally, Luke as a stand-alone book, it is most rewarding to read it after reading the first two.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Fiction. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I tried to get into this one but it was a DNF for me. I didn’t feel invested in the characters. It felt like the meet cute was rushed. I was not a fan of the digital messages making up so much of the beginning of the story. It didn’t grab my attention the way I needed it to. Not my cup of tea but may be someone else’s. Thanks for the opportunity to try it.

Title: Loyally, Luke (Skymar Series Book 3) By Pepper Basham

Release date: May 14th, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars

I received this book in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.

Readers are transported to the charming town of Skymar, where love blooms unexpectedly amidst the idyllic setting. As the third book in the Skymar series, Basham delivers a standalone romance that captures the essence of small-town life and the power of love to overcome obstacles. You can read this as a standalone story ( just as I did ) but you will be tempted to read the previous two when finishing.

Luke Edgewood, a self-professed non-romantic, unexpectedly finds himself living out all the clichéd tropes of a romantic comedy when he travels to the island of Skymar for a restoration project. Meanwhile, Aliana Roselynn St. Claire, the youngest daughter of Skymar's king and queen, escapes to the mountains to oversee renovations at the island's largest orphanage, hoping to avoid pressure from her family to pursue a predetermined romantic match.

When Luke and Aliana cross paths, sparks fly despite their initial misgivings. As they navigate fundraisers, fake dates, and unexpected adventures, they begin to realise that first impressions aren't always accurate, and true love might just be found in the most unexpected places.

This book offered an effortless reading experience thanks to its diverse array of textual elements. From witty text message exchanges between the main characters and their friends to email correspondence, the blend of formats added depth and humor to the narrative.

"Loyally, Luke" is a heartwarming small-town romance that will leave readers smiling and swooning. Pepper Basham has captured the magic of love and community in a story that is as uplifting . Whether you're a fan of the Skymar series or discovering it for the first time, "Loyally, Luke" is a truly delightful read that will leave you eagerly anticipating your next visit to Skymar.

Loyally, Luke
Pepper Basham
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Luke Edgewood is a flannel-wearing, Rambo watching, man’s man who shudders at the thoughts of watching a Hallmark movie. When he takes a job to help repair an aging orphanage, Luke can hardly believe the woman he's working for and falling in love with is Skymarian princess Aliana Roselynn St. Claire. Luke likes his quiet life where he's known for being a good friend, neighbor, and brother. When Ally’s true identity is revealed, royal expectations force Luke to chose between his preferred anonymity and the spotlight that comes with Ally's royal responsibilities.

We were sad to conclude the Skymar Series. The family bonds shown between Josephine, Izzy, Penelope, and Luke were strong and something everyone would long to have, including how their individuality was not only accepted but celebrated.

It was with great anticipation that we reached Luke’s story. He had been in the background during Authentically, Izzy and became more of a presence in Positively, Penelope. We loved Luke for his family commitment and strong character. This was demonstrated very well in his conversations with Ally.. They were a good match and showed great maturity toward their responsibilities. Our only reservation was Luke’s seeming struggle with his romantic appeal, which contradicted who we had come to know him to be.

We received an advance copy from the publisher. This is our honest review.

I enjoyed this book so much. I enjoyed all the back & forth texts between Luke & his sisters. They made me laugh & how can you not love Luke & Ellie?

I found myself laughing quite a bit with this book and I highly recommend it.

Thank you to the publisher & NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ebook.

This was a cute hallmark movie in novel form. A statement that gets reiterated in the book multiple times, so there’s no chance you’ll forget it.
Overall, it was a lighthearted, easy read that kept my attention. The texts and emails between the main character and his siblings were too long for my liking, but it wasn’t a deal breaker for me. I still really enjoyed the plot and have shelved more books by the author.
Many thanks to NetGalley for sending me an ARC.

Loyally Luke is a beautifully written romance. I loved the plot, characters and setting. I definitely recommend it. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.

Bless my Hallmark loving heart!
This was the adorable pick-me-up romance I needed at the end of a rough week.

This was my favorite of the series!

So fun to finally get Luke's story after the previous ones. We know he's down to earth, but also loyal hence the title.
Ellie is a royal intent on reforming her old ways and she's committed to that.

I much liked this book's narrative style instead of the epistolary one of books 1 and 2. Of course, with Luke being a man of few words, it only made sense.

I really loved all the sweet moments between Ellie and Luke at the orphanage during the construction.

I highly recommend reading this one and the other two before.

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

"Loyally, Luke" for me is a highly anticipated read of 2024 and I got to so excited when I saw I got approved for the arc!

This book is so delightful and delivers such heartfelt moments, hope, laughter, and swoon worthy romance! The story features tropes like adorable orphan children, small town charm, the spirit of well bound community and lovely characters!

Luke Edgewood, our main male character, and the highlight of the book for me if you ask me, is portrayed as a gem, a good man who is a quiet and steady hero. Luke's interactions with children, mentoring boys and listening to emotionally overwrought girls, are precious. And his relationship with his sisters??? It is characterized by such genuine care, thoughtfulness, and being a listening ear that captured my heart.

The book so well showcases Luke's wry sense of humor, careful craftsmanship, and endless patience with his sisters. Luke aims to strike a balance between being a fixer and a friend, and he is loyal to home and family. And the funny thing is, despite being practically allergic to romance, Luke falls in love with a princess.

Ellie, the female main character, is a prodigal princess trying to repair her reputation and rediscovers her true self with Luke's encouragement.

Luke and Ellie as a couple are hilarious, with a meet cute that is both humorous and unique. They balance each other well despite their different worlds, initial misunderstandings, forced proximity, and Ellie's hidden identity.

The last book of the series brings bittersweetness as the Edgewood Trio's story comes to an end, but it is satisfying to see the characters get their happily ever afters. Cameo appearances of previous book characters add to the loveliness of the story.

Overall, such a lovely book I do recommend it! Thanks for Netgalley and the publisher for sending an arc my way in an exchange for an honest review!

This was a sweet little romance that drew attention to all the romance tropes! It was pretty wholesome and tame! Just something to make you say awww!

The third book in the Skymar series, but can be read as a stand-alone.

Princess in hiding falls for an American carpenter. A very Hallmark movie vibe, and they also reference the movies in the story a lot. Sweet romcom. It has a lot of emails and texting in the story. Sounds like the two previous books may have more of that, but I think this one used the perfect amount.

Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Loyally, Luke to come out May 14, 2024.

I’ve read 3 chapters so far and I actually can’t continue.. each one opens with texting.. everyone is texting one another and I’m actually getting so confused.. that is kind of what’s throwing me off.. once a chapter starts I have no idea who’s the one narrating it.. I was intrigued with plot but I find it’s all over the place...

*I received a complementary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.* Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC