While this light romance got better as it went along, I was already disconnected from the story by the time it got there. It’s not poorly written, but the romance developed slowly and since I didn’t particularly like our heroine (or our hero), that made the book drag. That combined with the wholly unromantic start to their relationship – Johnny asks Stella if she wants to have a non-exclusive, no strings fling before knowing anything about her – and I had difficulty rooting for these two to find their happily ever after.
The story follows Stella, a twenty-something city girl who has been working herself to the bone in the hopes that she’ll soon get a promotion. When her boss asks that she temporarily relocate as the final test before the promotion, she jumps at the chance without learning too much about where she’ll be staying. Upon arrival to the small town, Stella has car trouble and winds up meeting a sexy mechanic. Johnny makes living in the country bearable, and he becomes the person Stella turns to whenever she’s in need. When he proposes that they have a no strings fling, Stella has trouble remembering all the reasons it’s a bad idea.
I did like the light, easy feel to the writing. This book wasn’t for me but I bet I’d enjoy something else by the author. Stella definitely came off as a little bratty and spoiled, while Johnny’s motivations were unclear. It’s told exclusively from Stella’s perspective, and I think getting his side of the story would’ve made the book a lot better. Without knowing his perspective, the reader is sort of led to assume that he’s just excited to sleep with someone who won’t be sticking around, and it left a sour taste in my mouth. We never really learn all that much about him, aside from his job and some drama with his ex. I’m sure there are those who will love this story, but this one didn’t win me over.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gone Country by Katrina Marie. My rating: 3 of 5 stars
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