**I received an advanced galley of this book in exchange for an honest review**
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Hallmark Publishing's October Kiss is based on a Hallmark movie of the same name, and for fans of Hallmark, this book doesn't disappoint. The book follows the love story of Poppy, newly-minted nanny, and Ryan, a harried businessman. Poppy has trouble committing to things and has tried lots of different jobs, and more than her share of blind dates. Her sister recommends her as a nanny to widower Ryan, who's preparing for a big presentation. After a disastrous first day with the kids, Poppy wants to quit, but tells Ryan she'll stay through Halloween, her favorite holiday. Poppy manages to win over the kids with fun Halloween activities, and attracts Ryan in the process. She's attracted too, but can either of them commit to something that lasts?

The story follows Hallmark's expected formula, but for those who love those holiday movies, this is a great read. The characters and situations are believable and the fact that Ryan's an app developer is an interesting twist. I enjoyed Poppy's energy, but did tire a bit from Ryan's inattention to his kids. Her sister Megan is a well-drawn character and adds depth to Poppy. I loved the setting and the atmosphere, which is as magically exciting as you'd hope for in a holiday book. The ending is satisfying and heartwarming; just what I look for from this type of book.

I would recommend this for any Hallmark holiday movie fan, but others may find the plot predictable. But that's part of the fun of a Hallmark book; it's like eating candy corn: a tasty treat for those who love it, but dissatisfying for those who aren't fans. ( )

October Kiss by Kristen Ethridge
Source: NetGalley
My Rating: 3½/5 stars

Here I am with, yet another book based on a Hallmark movie! While I was completely smitten with the first two book I read, I wasn’t quite as in love with this one, but still enjoyed the read. Here’s the skinny:

Poppy is what one might call a free-spirit! She’s not particularly good at any one thing, she hasn’t ever found a calling, and she’s not getting any younger. Even Poppy realizes it’s time for her to find a “real” job, a career she can not only enjoy for the long-term, but commit to for the long-term. Yeah, Poppy may also have some commitment issues which have thus far hindered the achievement of her life goals.

On the other hand, there’s Ryan, an admitted workaholic who is only trying to secure his children’s future in the wake of their mother’s death. Though his business is a success, his current project would overwhelmingly secure the future for himself and his children. Trouble is, that security comes at a cost and the cost is all the time he must give to work and take from his kids. Oh, Ryan’s kids, Zach and Zoe know their dad loves them, but they would be so much happier if he were able to spend more time with them. Instead, the kids have been saddled with one nanny after another, and Poppy is just the latest in a long line of quitters who can’t handle two spirited youngsters.

To say Poppy’s first day with Zach and Zoe went badly would be something of any understatement. Though her initial inclination is to quit, Poppy soon realizes Zach and Zoe need her as much as she needs them. With a new-found determination and little begging from Ryan, Poppy sets out to make her temporary assignment the best it can possibly be . . . for the kids, of course. Once Poppy dives in and commits to her plan, she sees wonderful changes in the kids. What’s more, with just a bit of conversation and some light cajoling, Poppy also helps Ryan to see exactly what it is he has been missing. In just a hot minute, Poppy, Ryan, and the kids begin to see what life could be like if they were a proper family.

The Bottom Line: While I have generally fallen stupidly in love with this series of books, I found this one just a bit harder to love. I think my biggest issue with this read is the super high-speed nature of Poppy and Ryan’s relationship. Because of the plot and how it plays out, this isn’t an insta-love situation, but a relationship that develops. For me, it just went a bit too fast which made it far too unrealistic for me. With that being said, there were parts of this book I truly liked including, Zach and Zoe, Ryan’s reactions and responses to his kids, and the epilogue. I am true believer in not giving up when there’s a bookish speed bump, so I am very much looking forward to my next Hallmark read. ( )