Just a Kiss

Written by Denise Hunter

Narrated by Windy Lanzl

Riley Callahan has plans to finally reveal his secret feelings for his best friend (who just happens to be his brother’s ex). But tragedy strikes and derails his plans.

Watching the love of his life fall for his brother was enough to send Riley straight to boot camp. But over a year later, he’s officially a marine, and Beau and Paige are no longer an item. When Riley’s tour in Afghanistan is up, he intends to confess his feelings to Paige and win his best friend’s heart once and for all.

But all that changes when an IED takes the life of a comrade and leaves Riley an amputee. Now he’s heading home, injured and troubled. His plans to win Paige are a distant dream. She deserves so much more than the man that’s left. All he can do now is put some healthy distance between them. But upon his return he discovers his family has arranged for him to stay with Paige.

Paige is a nurturer at heart and happy to take care of her best buddy. By all appearances Riley is adjusting miraculously well to his disability. But as the days pass, Paige begins to see that the smiles and laughter are just a mask for the pain he’s hiding. To make matters worse, her job is in serious jeopardy. The animal shelter that she’s poured her heart into has lost its funding, and she has three months to come up with the money needed to save it.

As the weeks wear on, Paige’s feelings for Riley begin to shift into uncharted territory. Why is she suddenly noticing his arm muscles and the way his lips curl at the corners? Will she be able to deny her feelings for another Callahan brother? And will Riley let his heart heal so he can let Paige in?

• Full-length Contemporary Romance
• Includes Discussion Questions for Book Clubs
• Part of the Summer Harbor series
  • Book One: Falling Like Snowflakes
  • Book Two: The Goodbye Bride
  • Book Three: Just a Kiss

• Language: English
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson
• Release date: Sep 6, 2016
• ISBN: 9780718095185

Denise Hunter

Denise Hunter is the internationally published, bestselling author of more than forty books, three of which have been adapted into original Hallmark Channel movies. She has won the Holt Medallion Award, the Reader’s Choice Award, the Carol Award, the Foreword Book of the Year Award, and is a RITA finalist. When Denise isn’t orchestrating love lives on the written page, she enjoys traveling with her family, drinking chai lattes, and playing drums. Denise makes her home in Indiana, where she and her husband raised three boys and are now enjoying an empty nest and three beautiful grandchildren. DeniseHunterBooks.com; Facebook: @AuthorDeniseHunter; Twitter: @DeniseAHunter; Instagram: @deniseahunter.

Reviews for Just a Kiss

[mary Gardner · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A touching story of the struggles a wounded vet trying to return to his life and the best friend he left behind. This friends to lovers story pulled at the heart strings and made me root for two characters as their growing feelings mingled with the realistic challenges of their struggle to find their new normal.

[kbranfield-837433 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

4.5 stars.

The final installment in Denise Hunter's heartwarming Summer Harbor series, Just a Kiss is a sweet yet realistic romance between two longtime friends.

Riley Callahan is finally planning on telling his best gal pal Paige Warren he is in love with her when he returns from his tour in Afghanistan. However, his homecoming is nothing like anyone expects when he is injured in an IED attack and he comes home with part of his leg amputated. Trying to put on a happy face for his family and friends, Riley is dismayed to discover he must live with Paige during his recovery. Despite his best efforts to fool everyone, Paige is quick to realize that Riley is struggling and she grows increasingly concerned over his nightmares, mood swings and all around frustration. Needing someone to fill in temporarily at the animal shelter where she works, Paige convinces Riley to take the position. Spending so much time in close proximity does little to help the growing tension between them since Riley is trying to ignore his feelings for her and Paige is confused by her sudden romantic interest in her best friend. When their emotions are too strong to ignore, Paige and Riley decide to date but will Riley's unresolved issues from his wartime experiences ruin their chance at happiness?

Despite his plans to tell Paige how he feels about her, Riley no longer feels like he is capable of taking care of the woman he loves. His daily struggles to accomplish everyday tasks is taking a toll on him and he does not want to be a burden to any woman, including Paige. Frustrated and angry over his circumstances, Riley is barely getting through each day and his nights are plagued by recurring nightmares of the IED attack. Getting his prosthesis bolsters his flagging confidence, but it does not take much to send him plunging back into despair. Instead of facing his problems, Riley makes another impetuous decision that shatters their burgeoning romance.

Paige is no stranger to heartbreak or betrayal but Riley's friendship is the one thing she can always count on no matter what. Hurt by his decision to join the Marines, she has faithfully kept in touch with him during his deployment and she is eager for him to return home. Dismayed yet not surprised by the changes in him, she is a little hover-y as he adjusts to his new circumstances. Paige has complete confidence he will emerge stronger than ever, but she cannot help but be concerned over his lack of progress in some areas. Her sudden awareness of Riley as a man rather than just as a friend takes her off guard and initially, she keeps her feelings to herself since she is afraid to lose their friendship. But when it becomes apparent to her that Riley is attracted to her as well, Paige is ready to take their relationship to the next level. She is completely stunned when Riley pulls away from her just as their romance is beginning and Paige is thoroughly brokenhearted by his shocking announcement.

The relationship between Paige and Riley is slow growing but their longstanding friendship provides a firm foundation for their fledgling romance. Both Paige and Riley have plenty of emotional baggage from traumatic events in their lives and neither of them have worked through these issues. Due to her somewhat dysfunctional childhood, Paige longs for family and although she is very close to the Callahan's, she never quite feels like she fits in. She has a giving heart and she is sometimes just a bit too trusting of people who have hurt her in the past. Riley's feelings of inadequacy due to his war injury cause him to back away from relationships. He is also struggling to find a new career since he is convinced he cannot return to his previous job as a lobsterman. However, his biggest problem is his refusal to get treatment for his PTSD and his underlying depression. Reverting to past behavior, Riley runs from his troubles instead of facing them head on and only time will tell whether his kneejerk reaction will help or hinder him in the long run.

With a gentle undercurrent of faith and a realistic storyline, Just a Kiss is a moving story of healing and love that is fast-paced and engaging with a wonderful cast of characters. Denise Hunter saved the best for last and this highly anticipated romance is an emotional conclusion to the Summer Harbor series. Riley and Paige have to overcome some seemingly insurmountable obstacles but this just makes their romance that much more believable. Longtime fans will be delighted with the outcome of a storyline that has played out in all three books while newcomers will find it very easy to jump right in with this installment. A beautiful end to a fabulous series that I highly recommend.

[tjsjohanna_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Riley has tried to stay out of Paige's way since he's in love with her and she's in love with someone else. But getting injured in battle brings him home. Paige is single but Riley feels unable to give her a real relationship due to his injuries. It's a sweet story of faith and being able to be vulnerable to each other.

[stephlaymon · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I received this as an ARC (which in no way influences this review, of course), and found out that it was the third in a series. I never read books out of order. I mean not even once...until now. I read the first in the series, which I loved, and was planning on reading the second, until life got busy and this review was so past it's release date. Soooo, I picked it up, fell easily within the pace of the story, loved the characters even more than I did in the first installment, cried my eyes out over a few of their circumstances, blah-blah-blah, the end.No. Really though. Denise Hunter did such a great job with this book. She knows how to create these wonderful alpha-males who are not at all jerks, and the women are strong while holding onto their femininity. She has added quirky characters like the opinionated, outspoken aunt, who I love.The story is heartbreaking at times, but it is a must for romance lovers who like a good clean tearjerker. The story is a beautiful example of how love can withstand, transform, heal, and is worth holding onto.

[hes7 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The conclusion to Denise Hunter’s Summer Harbor series packs quite the emotional punch for the third eligible Callahan brother, as he finally get his chance for romance. Since meeting Riley Callahan and his best friend Paige Warren in Falling Like Snowflakes, I’ve been anxious (and hoping) to see what course their love story would take - and I’m glad to say Just a Kiss does not disappoint. Riley returns from his time in the military a broken man, one leg short. Though he’s been in love with Paige for years, he no longer feels worthy of winning her heart and determines to simply maintain their platonic friendship status. Yet, weeks of recovery complicate Riley’s plans, forcing him into inconveniently close quarters with Paige. Of course, this time together pushes both of them to face their feelings for one another, as well as deal with their persistent and hindering insecurities, and sets them on a perfectly paced trajectory for sweet (albeit frustrating, at times) romance and hopeful healing.Just a Kiss will please any reader of contemporary romance looking for a heartwarming read full of authentic, lovable characters, swoon-worthy moments, and encouraging spiritual themes. I really could not read this book fast enough - it’s an excellent romance for Riley and Paige (and, finally, Aunt Trudy and Sheriff Colton, too). I loved all of it and easily recommend it, right along with the previous two Summer Harbor novels. Thanks to BookLook Bloggers, I received a copy of Just a Kiss and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (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.”)

[judyg54 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Great series about the Callahan brothers! Each story can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend all three. The Callahan brothers are men who go after the woman they love and when they find her, they can't let her go.This story is about Riley Callahn who has loved Paige since a teenager (although Paige only saw him as her best friend). When she starts to date his older brother, Riley joins the marines. There he gets wounded and returns home, where Paige (who is no longer dating the brother) begs to take care of her best friend. Here is where it gets interesting. Paige starts to see Riley as someone she loves and Riley doesn't think he is a whole man anymore and wants Paige to find someone else. The close proximity these two find themselves in starts to stir up emotions and just once kiss will see things begin to change between the two of them. This was another great story by Denise Hunter. The romance and relationships between the characters in this story was intense, but also heartwarming. I could easily take a trip to Summer Harbor again sometime. Enjoy!

[simplykelina · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I love the Callahan brothers, and was excited to get to Riley’s story. I knew it was going to deal with Riley and Paige based on books one and two. I have loved everything I have read from Denise Hunter, but this one fell a little flat. This was my least favorite of the series. I just never connected with the characters or their story. This was still a sweet romance, but I just expected more. It just felt different than the other books I have read by the author. I felt bored and was forcing myself to finish this one, which I have never had to do before with DH.

[sandralb-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Just a Kiss is the third and last book in the Summer Harbor Series. Although it can be read as a stand alone book, please read the first two, Falling Like Snowflakes and The Goodbye Bride. I couldn't wait to see what would happen with the third and youngest Callahan brother, Riley. I was really rooting for him and Paige to get together. The second love match in this story, was a pleasant surprise. I felt the story line was believable. The characters were well developed. This is one time, I had a hard time with life getting in my way of me finishing the book. I must admit, I am not an unbiased reviewer. I love all of Denise Hunters books, this one was no exception.

[harley0326 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It's so nice to read a new book from one of my favorite authors. I opened the book and started reading and before I knew it, I was crying. The beginning is so emotional and felt so real I wanted to go hug the couple and wish them well. Riley and Paige have been best friends forever. As Riley exits the plane, he is a completely different person from when he was home last. After a tour in Afghanistan Riley comes home to face some challenges. What happened to him in Afghanistan? I loved his character so much. He is a strong and fit man with perhaps a bit of stubbornness to go along with his moody attitude. I loved when he discovers he will be staying with Paige for awhile. Can two best friends live together after Riley ran off to the Marines and left the one girl he loved? Paige is a sweet and caring person. She has a big heart and wants to take care of everyone. I loved her devotion to caring for animals at the shelter. Her warmth and compassion was so well written that I wanted to be her friend. The author writes a very emotional journey between two people trying to find their way in life. The chemistry is undeniable between them as they try to overcome situations that keep them apart. I loved how the author writes Riley's character with some inner struggles that shine a light on a difficult subject many veterans face . The story is an emotional roller coaster as the characters rely on their faith to find happiness. Have you ever struggled with something and knew the only answer was to trust God? Thank you for a story that is filled with hope, budding romances and learning to trust again. The author has provided discussion questions at the end that I highly recommend you read. The book has left me with hope that past hurts can be forgiven and sometimes a simple kiss can bring a lifetime of happiness. I was given a complimentary copy of this book from The Fiction Guild. The review is my own opinion and I was not compensated for it.

[arlenadean · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Title: Just A KissAuthor: Denise HunterPublisher: Thomas NelsonSeries: Summer Harbor #3Reviewed By: Arlena DeanRating: Four Review:"Just A Kiss" by Denise HunterMy Thoughts......"Just A Kiss" was the third beautifully written 'Summer Harbor Series' featuring Riley Callahan and Paige Warren. I loved how this author was able to present to us such a interesting intriguing read that will hold your attention all the way to the very end. The way these two finally got together was truly a work of art and the funny thing about it all ... both had feelings for each other at one time or another for each other. This will be quite a 'emotional journey' as well as a lots of drama for these two to finally see the writing on the wall. I did also like the way the Christian aspect comes into the read. I wasn't sure I understood how Riley's PTSD was dealt with after he came back home but I guess it comes out OK in the end. It was true that he needed some help [therapy] and it was only when he saw that he need help will he get it before it's too late for him and Paige? Will these two get their HEA? This is the time that I will say you will have to pick up this good read to see for yourself how this author brings it all out to the readers. With Riley and Paige being friends very early on was definitely a plus for these two main characters. Add to that all the help from the secondary characters....[Beau, Zac, Aunt Trudy, Lucy] to name a few it seemed to be help all around that was there all was needed was to be asked. I found the characters for the most part well developed, portrayed, believable that help gives the reader a well told story. I felt that this was quite a touching story after all was said and done. This is a standalone read but I wished that I had read the first two series to have found out what all had happened earlier in the stories of the rest of the Callahan brothers.This ARC was given by the publisher and NetGallery in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.

[kaykwilts · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Just a Kiss is third in the Summer Harbor series featuring the Callahan brothers. I feel in love with Riley when he was introduced in the first book. I wanted to see him have his happy ending and I was not disappointed. When we first meet Riley in book 1 he was in love with his best friend Paige but Paige was dating his oldest brother at the time. Heartsick he enrolls in the army. In this book he returns home from Afghanistan after suffering a serious injury. He had lost part of his right leg. He does not want to but has no other choice but to stay at Paige's home because hers was the only one that was handicap accessible. After his brother had broken up with Paige and hooked up with another gal he had intending to pursue Paige but the loss of the limb made him feel like less of a man. I think the author did an excellent job of portraying how someone would feel losing a limb.Paige still regards him as her best friend but 40 percent into the book her feelings begin to change. She only confided in Lucy and Eden about her growing feelings. He loved her but she did not know and and she loved him but he did not know it. This kept me in suspense on wondering who would be the one to make the first move toward getting together.I believe this last story has to be my favorite of all the three but I enjoyed them all. A little sad that this is the last we will hear from the Callahan clan. I'm looking forward to reading any future books Denise will write. I'm sure they will be good. She writes likeable characters.Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for providing me an ARC for me to read and review. This book is due to be released on September 6, 2016.