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Love in Montana #8
Perfect Enough
Over the years, Joshua has watched most of his family fall in love. He and his cousin Nate are the last single Shaws standing, and while Nate’s seemingly content to stay that way, Josh wants the kind of love his sister, parents, and grandparents have found. In the meantime, he’s alone. And lonely. Particularly since, until that special someone comes along, Josh believes certain…ahem…intimacies are worth waiting for.
Sophia Montgomery is still reeling from the unexpected passing of her beloved father when, in her grief, she texts his old phone number—and gets a reply. The person on the other end, Josh Shaw, is sympathetic, funny, and kind…everything Sophia needs right now. And when her grieving mother suddenly focuses on Sophia’s dating life, it’s not long before Josh goes from text friend to fake boyfriend to get her mom off her back.
But the first time Josh and Sophia meet in person? Well…there’s nothing fake about their instant attraction.
Giddy with newfound feelings, the young couple isn't prepared for the bombs about to go off in their lives—including revelations about Sophia's father and a Shaw family tragedy that rocks Josh's entire world.
No one ever said life would be perfect. But if Josh and Sophia rely on each other to get through their biggest challenges so far as a couple, their love could prove more than perfect enough.
Reading order for series.
1. Fearless Enough
2. Cherished Enough
3. Brave Enough
4. Daring Enough
5. Loved Enough
6. Forever Enough
7. Perfect Enough
8. Devoted Enough
Sophia Montgomery is still reeling from the unexpected passing of her beloved father when, in her grief, she texts his old phone number—and gets a reply. The person on the other end, Josh Shaw, is sympathetic, funny, and kind…everything Sophia needs right now. And when her grieving mother suddenly focuses on Sophia’s dating life, it’s not long before Josh goes from text friend to fake boyfriend to get her mom off her back.
But the first time Josh and Sophia meet in person? Well…there’s nothing fake about their instant attraction.
Giddy with newfound feelings, the young couple isn't prepared for the bombs about to go off in their lives—including revelations about Sophia's father and a Shaw family tragedy that rocks Josh's entire world.
No one ever said life would be perfect. But if Josh and Sophia rely on each other to get through their biggest challenges so far as a couple, their love could prove more than perfect enough.
Reading order for series.
1. Fearless Enough
2. Cherished Enough
3. Brave Enough
4. Daring Enough
5. Loved Enough
6. Forever Enough
7. Perfect Enough
8. Devoted Enough
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2024
414 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Elliott
114 books6,487 followersKelly Elliott is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling contemporary romance author. Since finishing her bestselling Wanted series, Kelly continues to spread her wings while remaining true to her roots and giving readers stories rich with hot protective men, strong women and beautiful surroundings.
Her bestselling works include, Wanted, Broken, Without You, and Unconditional Love, to name just a few.
Kelly has been passionate about writing since she was fifteen. After years of filling journals with stories, she finally followed her dream and published her first novel, Wanted, in November of 2012.
Kelly lives in central Texas with her husband, daughter, and two pups. When she’s not writing, Kelly enjoys reading and spending time with her family. She is down to earth and very in touch with her readers, both on social media and at signings.
To find out more about Kelly and her books, you can find her through her website.
www.kellyelliottauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
June 13, 2025
I loved Josh and Sophia's story. Their meet-cute, fate. I mean, he got her dad's old phone number. I would have liked to see more of that month long communication before they met in person.
These two are perfect, and I loved the friendship they built first that then turned into love. This family just brings something special to the page, and I love this series so much. I love that we also get to know Nate more in this book as Josh and Nate are more like brothers.
No cliffhanger
Standalone, though part of a larger series
Told from both POVs
Minor editing issues throughout
Hoopla listen 🎶
These two are perfect, and I loved the friendship they built first that then turned into love. This family just brings something special to the page, and I love this series so much. I love that we also get to know Nate more in this book as Josh and Nate are more like brothers.
No cliffhanger
Standalone, though part of a larger series
Told from both POVs
Minor editing issues throughout
Hoopla listen 🎶
October 7, 2024
A cowboy, firefighter!!! Sign. Me. Up!
Perfect Enough is a sweet and sexy romance that follows Sophia Montgomery and Josh Shaw. When we first meet up with Sophia, she's still dealing with her grief from the loss of her father. Sophia would text her thoughts and feelings to her father's number as a way of coping. However, unbeknownst to Sophia, her father's number would be assigned to someone else and when that other person replies, her entire world gets turned upside down.
Overall, I thought this book was a really enjoyable read. The characters are perfectly flawed with great chemistry and a connection that will leave readers swooning. Perfect Enough does deal with some tough subject matters such as loss and grief, but Kelly Elliott did an amazing job tackling those issues.
If you're looking for a sweet and swoon-worthy romance, you won't want to miss Perfect Enough.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Perfect Enough is a sweet and sexy romance that follows Sophia Montgomery and Josh Shaw. When we first meet up with Sophia, she's still dealing with her grief from the loss of her father. Sophia would text her thoughts and feelings to her father's number as a way of coping. However, unbeknownst to Sophia, her father's number would be assigned to someone else and when that other person replies, her entire world gets turned upside down.
Overall, I thought this book was a really enjoyable read. The characters are perfectly flawed with great chemistry and a connection that will leave readers swooning. Perfect Enough does deal with some tough subject matters such as loss and grief, but Kelly Elliott did an amazing job tackling those issues.
If you're looking for a sweet and swoon-worthy romance, you won't want to miss Perfect Enough.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
October 25, 2024
I absolutely loved Perfect Enough by Kelly Elliott, the eighth book in her Love in Montana series! Kelly Elliott has done it again! The Love in Montana series is a spinoff series of Meet Me in Montana series, which I LOVED. Perfect Enough is an incredible fake dating/love at first sight love story, which filled me with a rollercoaster of emotions, and it was impossible to put it down. I loved every moment on every page. It is my favorite book in the series and my FAVORITE book that I have read recently. Kelly Elliott continues to deliver incredibly written love stories that I LOVE to read, and she continues to be one of my favorite authors to read. I love this incredible love at first sight love story, the Hamilton, Montana setting, and the amazing characters, they feel like family! Perfect Enough takes places three years after Enchanted Enough. It is a fake dating/love at first sight love story between Sophia Montgomery, a dance teacher and runs her mother’s dance studio and Josh Shaw, rancher and part-time firefighter. I love how their love story starts. Sophia texts her late father’s cell phone. She was always close with her father and texting his old cell phone number helps her cope with his loss from a recent suicide and her break-up with her boyfriend, Drake, after he cheated on her. Unbeknownst to Sophia, Josh received a new cell phone from the fire department since he lost his last one and her father’s cell phone number is now Josh’s. Josh decides to respond to Sophia’s text complaining about men. I love the rules that they set regarding their friendship. I love everything that they discover about each other through their text messages, especially that they live near one another. Sofia’s mother tries creating an online dating profile for Sofia, and Sofia tells Josh. Josh suggests that Sofia tells her mother that they are dating. They finally meet in person when Sofia and her mother attend a wedding in Hamilton. Sofia spent the night of the wedding at Josh’s house, and he admits to Sofia that he has never been intimate with anyone, that he was saving himself. As Sophia and Josh spend time together, they end up talking and getting to know one another and sharing secrets with each other. They go from fake dating to real dating. Conversation between Josh and Sophia flows so easily, I love the chemistry between them and the easy banter and flirting, and everything that they do together. As Sophia and Josh spend more time together things change between them. An unexpected plot twist that you will need to have a box of Kleenex nearby, causes Josh to question everything. I love the heart-to-heart conversation that Josh has with his grandmother, Stella, which helps him resolve his issues. Sofia’s mother, Gloria, decides to sell her home and her business and finally reveals the reason behind her husband’s suicide to Sofia. Sofia makes in her life to have a life with Josh as a result of her mother’s decisions. Josh makes changes in his life as a result of the plot twist. Kelly Elliott definitely does not disappoint her readers with all the feels in Perfect Enough and has once again delivered an amazing story filled with everything that I have come to love about and expect from her books. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong, passionate females, big loving families, and caring friends, who always support each other? I love how Kelly develops her characters in such a way that you fall in love with them and care about them much like a good friend and how she always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong, sassy woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy man. Kelly Elliott continues to deliver all that and so much more. Another favorite part of her book is how she incorporates the picture on the cover of the book and the title of the book into the love story. I am not sure how she continues writing my favorite books to read. I love that Kelly chooses dialogue that stays true to her characters. Perfect Enough is filled with all the heartbreaking and heartwarming moments and plot twists that I have come to love and expect in a Kelly Elliott love story. I love all the plot twists included in Perfect Enough. Kelly Elliott continues to prove that she is an incredible storyteller. I love that she writes her stories in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting inside their minds and knowing their thoughts and how they really feel. I love the ending of Sophia and Josh’s love story, especially Josh’s do-over proposal and the significance of the engagement ring he gives to Sofia. I love how the epilogue reveals the history behind Nathan and Haven. Perfect Enough was an amazing fake dating/love at first sight love story; I am so glad that Sophia and Josh got their happily ever after. I loved all the surprises plot twists that filled the pages of this love story, and I needed to have my Kleenex nearby on occasion, especially after the heart-to-heart conversations. My favorite line in the story is when Sofia tells Nate that we miss them so much because we loved them so much. I love all the characters in this series, but I especially loved catching up with all the characters from the Meet Me in Montana series, it feels like a family reunion. I enjoy all the interactions among all the Shaw siblings and cousins and the Littlewoods, it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. I love meeting all the new babies! I love the descriptions of Hamilton, Montana. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? I loved every moment. Cannot wait to read the final book in the series. Highly recommend this beautifully written love story. Received an advanced copy from the author.
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March 9, 2025Cover comment again: I do not think ranchers have holes in their jeans. That may sound weird, but it seems out of place, reserved for trendy college kids who buy jeans...new...with holes/rips. Dirty, check. But a big hole just does not fit. No way ranches are into that absurd fashion trend. And one can tell by looking at the hand and arm of the guy on the cover that he is older than 22. Both appear several years older.
After Enchanted Enough ends (within the same downloaded e-book), a preview of Perfect Enough begins with - Epilogue, Josh, eighteen years old. After downloading Perfect Enough, it begins with - Prologue, Josh, nineteen years old. Both start with the same sentence. Come on editors, this is a very minor, yet pretty glaring oversight.
This is easily the book I like the least in this series. I like the premise, but do not buy into the chemistry between Josh and Sophia. I do not see (read) what made him want to explore a more-than-friends relationship with her. I cannot stand Sophia's mom. For f*ck's sake, lay off. I could not date someone with Gloria constantly hovering. And Sophia- grow a backbone and then stop apologizing for everything, the same things, multiple times. Actually, stop saying dumb stuff you need to apologize for. She, Gloria, and Karen, what a bitch, all have foot-in-mouth disease.
There is a lot of build toward Nathan's book (Devoted Enough) in this one and it seems like a somewhat desperate attempt to build history between Haven and Nathan/the Shaw family too late. And it takes away focus from Josh and Sophia in a already fairly short book.
After Enchanted Enough ends (within the same downloaded e-book), a preview of Perfect Enough begins with - Epilogue, Josh, eighteen years old. After downloading Perfect Enough, it begins with - Prologue, Josh, nineteen years old. Both start with the same sentence. Come on editors, this is a very minor, yet pretty glaring oversight.
This is easily the book I like the least in this series. I like the premise, but do not buy into the chemistry between Josh and Sophia. I do not see (read) what made him want to explore a more-than-friends relationship with her. I cannot stand Sophia's mom. For f*ck's sake, lay off. I could not date someone with Gloria constantly hovering. And Sophia- grow a backbone and then stop apologizing for everything, the same things, multiple times. Actually, stop saying dumb stuff you need to apologize for. She, Gloria, and Karen, what a bitch, all have foot-in-mouth disease.
There is a lot of build toward Nathan's book (Devoted Enough) in this one and it seems like a somewhat desperate attempt to build history between Haven and Nathan/the Shaw family too late. And it takes away focus from Josh and Sophia in a already fairly short book.
October 27, 2024
I feel pretty lucky to have received an ARC of this book (it’s been fun to have received one of all the books in this series) and this one didn’t disappoint.
This book was romantic, emotional and beautifully written. Like all other books in the series, we get glimpse of the Shaw family antics and the way the author brings them all together through the laughter and tears is what keeps me coming back every time.
Looking forward to the final book in the new year!
This book was romantic, emotional and beautifully written. Like all other books in the series, we get glimpse of the Shaw family antics and the way the author brings them all together through the laughter and tears is what keeps me coming back every time.
Looking forward to the final book in the new year!
December 1, 2024
Swoon
I just love all Kelly's books and this one did not disappoint at all. A story of heartbreak, family, friends and true love. Make sure you have a box of tissues you'll need them!
I just love all Kelly's books and this one did not disappoint at all. A story of heartbreak, family, friends and true love. Make sure you have a box of tissues you'll need them!
February 12, 2025
3.5 Stars
February 21, 2025
Audio - I really loved this series!
November 4, 2024
Perfect Romance
I love when a new Love in Montana book comes out. And this one did not disappoint me at all. A fun romantic story. And I loved Josh. Kaylee was always my favorite character from the original series, so I can’t see so much of her in Josh. An adorable romance that will tug at your heartstrings.
I love when a new Love in Montana book comes out. And this one did not disappoint me at all. A fun romantic story. And I loved Josh. Kaylee was always my favorite character from the original series, so I can’t see so much of her in Josh. An adorable romance that will tug at your heartstrings.
December 1, 2024
Perfect Enough by Kelly Elliott is the perfect addition to her Love in Montana series, and if you’re a hopeless romantic like me, this book will sweep you off your feet. In Book 8, Elliott once again delivers a heartwarming, emotionally rich story filled with swoon-worthy moments and a love story that will make your heart melt.
Josh, a fire fighter in his early twenties working on his family’s ranch, is the quintessential book boyfriend. Despite his youth, he’s been longing for his soul mate, just like the rest of his family has found. When he receives a text message meant for the previous owner of his new phone, it feels like fate is stepping in to grant his deepest wish. Enter Sophia, who never expected her simple text to receive a reply, but it’s about to change both their lives forever.
Ms Elliott’s storytelling shines as she weaves together the undeniable connection between Josh and Sophia, with just the right amount of emotional twists to keep you hooked. Their journey is not without its bumps, so you might want to keep some tissues handy! With a storyline full of depth and heart, Perfect Enough is another brilliant story in an equally brilliant series. Fans of the series will not be disappointed!
Josh, a fire fighter in his early twenties working on his family’s ranch, is the quintessential book boyfriend. Despite his youth, he’s been longing for his soul mate, just like the rest of his family has found. When he receives a text message meant for the previous owner of his new phone, it feels like fate is stepping in to grant his deepest wish. Enter Sophia, who never expected her simple text to receive a reply, but it’s about to change both their lives forever.
Ms Elliott’s storytelling shines as she weaves together the undeniable connection between Josh and Sophia, with just the right amount of emotional twists to keep you hooked. Their journey is not without its bumps, so you might want to keep some tissues handy! With a storyline full of depth and heart, Perfect Enough is another brilliant story in an equally brilliant series. Fans of the series will not be disappointed!
November 7, 2024
'The perfect penultimate story that is as it says in the title. Perfect. Nothing else could sum up this romantic, wholesome (yet steamy where it counts), classically Kelly Elliott read all cowboy romance lovers should pick up and ride...read. Read.' - The British Bibliophile
Thank you to Kelly Elliott for sending me an ebook Advanced Reader Copy for me to read and leave an honest review, as part of her ARC team .
NOTE - This review will be spoiler-free as standard, but will contain references to elements within the book's blurb. If you wish to go into this read as blind read without knowing a single thing about it, please exit my review now :)
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⠀⠀⠀📖 A R C ⠀ R E V I E W 📖
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Perfect Enough is the eighth and penultimate book in Kelly Elliott's 'Love in Montana' series, a second generation book series branching off of the original, first generation series called 'Meet me in Montana'. These are the stories telling the tales of the children from the first generation's main characters, each designed to get their own happily ever after in their charming small town in Montana.
If you have come across this series or Kelly at this point, halt! Don't proceed any further. Although this is technically a standalone read within an interconnecting series, if you start here it will spoil how things will turn out for the main characters from the other books in this series. My personal recommendation is to start from where the first generation of Shaws, Littlewoods and the gang began in 'Never Enough'. From there you need to continue as follows:
➳Always Enough (Meet me in Montana #2)
➳Good Enough (Meet me in Montana #3)
➳Strong Enough (Meet me in Montana #4)
➳Fearless Enough (Love in Montana #1)
➳Cherished Enough (Love in Montana #2)
➳Brave Enough (Love in Montana #3)
➳Daring Enough (Love in Montana #4)
➳Loved Enough (Love in Montana #5)
➳Forever Enough (Love in Montana #6)
➳Enchanted Enough (Love in Montana #7)
➳Perfect Enough (Love in Montana #8)
Now that we are eight books deep into this series and twelve books into the lives of those in Hamilton, Montana, the end is officially in sight. Our journey into this unforgettable series began the day after my birthday in 2019 and as of this review's date, 1,786 days have passed. That's almost 60 whole months of discovering, growing fond and falling deeper for these characters each and every single day. That love will not wane, and will only continue to develop over the next 1,786 days and beyond.
For now though, it's not quite time to say goodbye. Two characters are next in the saddle and are here for you to get to know them a little better.
After being the one to watch all of his family fall head-over-heels in love over the years, Josh Shaw along with his cousin, Nate, are the only single Shaws standing. One out of the two men finds himself content to remain happily single without any immediate or future plans to settle down with his one true love, while the other wishes and dreams of finding the kind of love that his family managed to. Take a guess as to which of those two men is Josh, and which is Nate. That's right, Josh is the latter.
At present, he is both alone and lonely. His decision to find someone, the right someone, only heightens his loneliness when he believes a certain 'activity' are worth waiting for when coupled with the right someone. An admirable decision, though still tough at times.
Sophia Montgomery is going through her own rough patch. After losing her father rather unexpectedly, she's filled with immense grief following his passing. In times when she needs comfort and solace, she reaches out and texts her father's old phone number. Never did she expect anything other than to vent and get things off her chest, let alone a reply from the number of someone who is supposed to be deceased.
Both a shock and surprise at this turn of events, she finds out that the other person on the end of the messages--namely, one Josh Shaw--is sympathetic, funny, and kind human being. Three things she is very much in need of during one of the hardest times of her life that she has to navigate all on her own. That is, other than her mother who suddenly decides that amidst all of the grief, that this is the perfect time for her to interfere in Sophia's dating life. Soon enough, Josh goes from being Sophia's mysterious text friend to the next level up and the title of 'fake boyfriend', in order to get her mother off of her back.
Attraction built during their time messaging each other back and forth as the days went on, but it was seriously nothing compared to the instant--and much bigger--attraction they have for one another when they meet in person for the very first time. What they both feel, but don't yet outwardly say to one another, is so much more than either of them could have ever imagined.
What they are also completely unprepared for is not only the emotional, but for the physical. They are not ready for the bombs that are about to go off in each of their lives. Bombs such as those about Sophia's father and a tragedy that not only rocks Josh's world, but the very foundations of the Shaw family. Not ideal for two people starting out as friends and then hopefully going onto something more, but such as the unexpected things in life popping up at the most inopportune moments.
Life as everyone in Hamilton, Montana can agree, is far from perfect. Many things have been thrown at Shaws and Littlewoods alike, with Josh and Sophia being the next to step up to the place and to not only face what is coming their way, but to rely on one another while doing so. Leaning on and supporting one another though their biggest challenges is not only a test to see if they themselves can survive them, but if they can come out the other side still as much as a couple as they went in as.
Their love might just prove once and for all, that they are perfect enough for one another.
We're now officially now twelve books into a thirteen book series, deeply invested into the fictional world of the characters that have been born into the real-life location in Hamilton, Montana. That's twelve sets of main characters, plots but most importantly, happily ever afters. We've seen the series grow from very humble beginnings where things could go anywhere, be anything and take us along many unridden paths. Now that we have seen where those humble beginnings have taken us and ridden those paths, I'm prouder now of the author who has written the stories to take us on those journeys. We've gone from a first generation read to a second generation read and the interest in the stories and the main characters in each has not only not slowed down, but sped up and our love for them has only grown with every single word on every single page.
In particular with this story--which was first outlined in the blurb--that stood out to me, was the choice to make the MMC, Josh Shaw, the virtuous one of the two main characters. Typically, though not in every case, we see the FMC as the one who is the one who has yet to be intimate with anyone. It was a subtle change, but a welcome one. For me, the reasons in which Josh chose to remain the way he was, really stood out and were incredibly admirable. Valid, too. It showed that there's nothing wrong with a man wanting to save himself for 'the one', like it isn't if a woman were to be the one to decide that. There are men out there in real life who will feel this way too, and I'd like to feel that if they so happen to come across this book and Josh as a result, that they will have the chance to feel seen and valued by Kelly's writing of his character.
Simultaneously, I'm equally as awed by her writing of Sophia Montgomery. She's written as a balance of both what we look for and champion in a strong female character, while also showing that vulnerability so many of feel here in the real world when dealign with life, grief or even a mixture of the two combined. That said and in addition to those, she is also shown as flawed when relevant. All of these three things (strength, vulnerability & flaws) are three VERY contrasting qualities that are usually dealt with separately. Not here. Kelly weaves them in and out of one another to create Sophia's character and all three of those qualities rather than contracting one another, compliment each other. Where Sophia's strength in carving out a life for herself, is complimented by when she's not focused on those things, that its okay to grieve--even if it means texting with a stranger via your dad's old number. Again, both of those are equally complimented by her flaws, showing that no matter how strong or vulnerable you are, that we still have flaws in spite of them and that its not necessarily a negative thing. Sophia learns from her flaws, and it's a Shaw who helps her do it not for the sake of being a white knight, but as her other half and her equal who he himself also possesses his own flaws that SHE helps to flatten out.
I believe that my fellow readers will find many things to gush about after turning the last page. I did, as evidently shown in this review. Though without spoiling it for those who have yet to read Josh & Sophia's story, it is impossible to list them down. Though I will say these this...
An author who has the ability to spin so many storylines, sub-plots, journeys, adventures, plot twists, heart-wrenching moments, romantic-as-all-get-out swoon and cowboys coming out of every crevice in a small town where only so much can happen will forever have my admiration and respect. Kelly's years of writing our beloved cowboy characters has shown in this read and series, standing out among the boom of many books also written within the genre. Josh & Sophia's was as sweet as it was steamy, and embodies everything I have loved reading about this trope/genre for the last decade or so. She's still got what it takes and will always have it, to make me want to save a horse and ride a...you know.
Perfect Enough is as it is described in the title. Perfect. There's nothing else to sum up anything in or about it more than that word. We've been left in the perfect place to saddle up for one final ride with Devoted Enough. Get ready folks, its going to be a farewell worth waiting for.
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⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 📚 G E N R E S 📚
┗━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┛
⠀⠀⠀↳ Romance
⠀⠀⠀↳ Contemporary Romance
⠀⠀⠀↳ Romantic Comedy
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⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀T R O P E S
┗━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┛
⠀⠀⠀↳ No third act break-up
⠀⠀⠀↳ Happily Ever After
⠀⠀⠀↳ Friends to Lovers
⠀⠀⠀↳ Strangers to Lovers
⠀⠀⠀↳ Virgin MMC
⠀⠀⠀↳ Fake Dating
⠀⠀⠀↳ Found Family
⠀⠀⠀↳ Cowboy Romance
⠀⠀⠀↳ Firefighter MMC
⠀⠀⠀↳ Small Town Romance
┏━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┓
⠀ ⠀ 🌶️ S T E A M Y/S P I C Y? 🌶️
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⠀⠀⠀↳ Steamy-ish
⠀⠀⠀↳ Takes a short while to get going, but there is steam
⠀⠀⠀↳ Hold onto your hat, cowboy!
⠀⠀⠀↳ Yee-haw!
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⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀T R I G G E R S?
┗━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┛
⠀⠀⠀↳ No triggers
┏━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┓
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀M U S T ⠀ R E A D?
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⠀⠀⠀↳ Absolutely!
⠀⠀⠀↳ Five star read material!
Thank you to Kelly Elliott for sending me an ebook Advanced Reader Copy for me to read and leave an honest review, as part of her ARC team .
NOTE - This review will be spoiler-free as standard, but will contain references to elements within the book's blurb. If you wish to go into this read as blind read without knowing a single thing about it, please exit my review now :)
┏━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┓
⠀⠀⠀📖 A R C ⠀ R E V I E W 📖
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Perfect Enough is the eighth and penultimate book in Kelly Elliott's 'Love in Montana' series, a second generation book series branching off of the original, first generation series called 'Meet me in Montana'. These are the stories telling the tales of the children from the first generation's main characters, each designed to get their own happily ever after in their charming small town in Montana.
If you have come across this series or Kelly at this point, halt! Don't proceed any further. Although this is technically a standalone read within an interconnecting series, if you start here it will spoil how things will turn out for the main characters from the other books in this series. My personal recommendation is to start from where the first generation of Shaws, Littlewoods and the gang began in 'Never Enough'. From there you need to continue as follows:
➳Always Enough (Meet me in Montana #2)
➳Good Enough (Meet me in Montana #3)
➳Strong Enough (Meet me in Montana #4)
➳Fearless Enough (Love in Montana #1)
➳Cherished Enough (Love in Montana #2)
➳Brave Enough (Love in Montana #3)
➳Daring Enough (Love in Montana #4)
➳Loved Enough (Love in Montana #5)
➳Forever Enough (Love in Montana #6)
➳Enchanted Enough (Love in Montana #7)
➳Perfect Enough (Love in Montana #8)
Now that we are eight books deep into this series and twelve books into the lives of those in Hamilton, Montana, the end is officially in sight. Our journey into this unforgettable series began the day after my birthday in 2019 and as of this review's date, 1,786 days have passed. That's almost 60 whole months of discovering, growing fond and falling deeper for these characters each and every single day. That love will not wane, and will only continue to develop over the next 1,786 days and beyond.
For now though, it's not quite time to say goodbye. Two characters are next in the saddle and are here for you to get to know them a little better.
After being the one to watch all of his family fall head-over-heels in love over the years, Josh Shaw along with his cousin, Nate, are the only single Shaws standing. One out of the two men finds himself content to remain happily single without any immediate or future plans to settle down with his one true love, while the other wishes and dreams of finding the kind of love that his family managed to. Take a guess as to which of those two men is Josh, and which is Nate. That's right, Josh is the latter.
At present, he is both alone and lonely. His decision to find someone, the right someone, only heightens his loneliness when he believes a certain 'activity' are worth waiting for when coupled with the right someone. An admirable decision, though still tough at times.
Sophia Montgomery is going through her own rough patch. After losing her father rather unexpectedly, she's filled with immense grief following his passing. In times when she needs comfort and solace, she reaches out and texts her father's old phone number. Never did she expect anything other than to vent and get things off her chest, let alone a reply from the number of someone who is supposed to be deceased.
Both a shock and surprise at this turn of events, she finds out that the other person on the end of the messages--namely, one Josh Shaw--is sympathetic, funny, and kind human being. Three things she is very much in need of during one of the hardest times of her life that she has to navigate all on her own. That is, other than her mother who suddenly decides that amidst all of the grief, that this is the perfect time for her to interfere in Sophia's dating life. Soon enough, Josh goes from being Sophia's mysterious text friend to the next level up and the title of 'fake boyfriend', in order to get her mother off of her back.
Attraction built during their time messaging each other back and forth as the days went on, but it was seriously nothing compared to the instant--and much bigger--attraction they have for one another when they meet in person for the very first time. What they both feel, but don't yet outwardly say to one another, is so much more than either of them could have ever imagined.
What they are also completely unprepared for is not only the emotional, but for the physical. They are not ready for the bombs that are about to go off in each of their lives. Bombs such as those about Sophia's father and a tragedy that not only rocks Josh's world, but the very foundations of the Shaw family. Not ideal for two people starting out as friends and then hopefully going onto something more, but such as the unexpected things in life popping up at the most inopportune moments.
Life as everyone in Hamilton, Montana can agree, is far from perfect. Many things have been thrown at Shaws and Littlewoods alike, with Josh and Sophia being the next to step up to the place and to not only face what is coming their way, but to rely on one another while doing so. Leaning on and supporting one another though their biggest challenges is not only a test to see if they themselves can survive them, but if they can come out the other side still as much as a couple as they went in as.
Their love might just prove once and for all, that they are perfect enough for one another.
We're now officially now twelve books into a thirteen book series, deeply invested into the fictional world of the characters that have been born into the real-life location in Hamilton, Montana. That's twelve sets of main characters, plots but most importantly, happily ever afters. We've seen the series grow from very humble beginnings where things could go anywhere, be anything and take us along many unridden paths. Now that we have seen where those humble beginnings have taken us and ridden those paths, I'm prouder now of the author who has written the stories to take us on those journeys. We've gone from a first generation read to a second generation read and the interest in the stories and the main characters in each has not only not slowed down, but sped up and our love for them has only grown with every single word on every single page.
In particular with this story--which was first outlined in the blurb--that stood out to me, was the choice to make the MMC, Josh Shaw, the virtuous one of the two main characters. Typically, though not in every case, we see the FMC as the one who is the one who has yet to be intimate with anyone. It was a subtle change, but a welcome one. For me, the reasons in which Josh chose to remain the way he was, really stood out and were incredibly admirable. Valid, too. It showed that there's nothing wrong with a man wanting to save himself for 'the one', like it isn't if a woman were to be the one to decide that. There are men out there in real life who will feel this way too, and I'd like to feel that if they so happen to come across this book and Josh as a result, that they will have the chance to feel seen and valued by Kelly's writing of his character.
Simultaneously, I'm equally as awed by her writing of Sophia Montgomery. She's written as a balance of both what we look for and champion in a strong female character, while also showing that vulnerability so many of feel here in the real world when dealign with life, grief or even a mixture of the two combined. That said and in addition to those, she is also shown as flawed when relevant. All of these three things (strength, vulnerability & flaws) are three VERY contrasting qualities that are usually dealt with separately. Not here. Kelly weaves them in and out of one another to create Sophia's character and all three of those qualities rather than contracting one another, compliment each other. Where Sophia's strength in carving out a life for herself, is complimented by when she's not focused on those things, that its okay to grieve--even if it means texting with a stranger via your dad's old number. Again, both of those are equally complimented by her flaws, showing that no matter how strong or vulnerable you are, that we still have flaws in spite of them and that its not necessarily a negative thing. Sophia learns from her flaws, and it's a Shaw who helps her do it not for the sake of being a white knight, but as her other half and her equal who he himself also possesses his own flaws that SHE helps to flatten out.
I believe that my fellow readers will find many things to gush about after turning the last page. I did, as evidently shown in this review. Though without spoiling it for those who have yet to read Josh & Sophia's story, it is impossible to list them down. Though I will say these this...
An author who has the ability to spin so many storylines, sub-plots, journeys, adventures, plot twists, heart-wrenching moments, romantic-as-all-get-out swoon and cowboys coming out of every crevice in a small town where only so much can happen will forever have my admiration and respect. Kelly's years of writing our beloved cowboy characters has shown in this read and series, standing out among the boom of many books also written within the genre. Josh & Sophia's was as sweet as it was steamy, and embodies everything I have loved reading about this trope/genre for the last decade or so. She's still got what it takes and will always have it, to make me want to save a horse and ride a...you know.
Perfect Enough is as it is described in the title. Perfect. There's nothing else to sum up anything in or about it more than that word. We've been left in the perfect place to saddle up for one final ride with Devoted Enough. Get ready folks, its going to be a farewell worth waiting for.
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⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 📚 G E N R E S 📚
┗━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┛
⠀⠀⠀↳ Romance
⠀⠀⠀↳ Contemporary Romance
⠀⠀⠀↳ Romantic Comedy
┏━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┓
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀T R O P E S
┗━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━┛
⠀⠀⠀↳ No third act break-up
⠀⠀⠀↳ Happily Ever After
⠀⠀⠀↳ Friends to Lovers
⠀⠀⠀↳ Strangers to Lovers
⠀⠀⠀↳ Virgin MMC
⠀⠀⠀↳ Fake Dating
⠀⠀⠀↳ Found Family
⠀⠀⠀↳ Cowboy Romance
⠀⠀⠀↳ Firefighter MMC
⠀⠀⠀↳ Small Town Romance
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⠀ ⠀ 🌶️ S T E A M Y/S P I C Y? 🌶️
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⠀⠀⠀↳ Steamy-ish
⠀⠀⠀↳ Takes a short while to get going, but there is steam
⠀⠀⠀↳ Hold onto your hat, cowboy!
⠀⠀⠀↳ Yee-haw!
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⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀T R I G G E R S?
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⠀⠀⠀↳ No triggers
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⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀M U S T ⠀ R E A D?
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⠀⠀⠀↳ Absolutely!
⠀⠀⠀↳ Five star read material!
December 3, 2024
5 Star Review Perfect Enough (Love in Montana #8) by Kelly Elliott
Perfect Enough was a good addition to the Love in Montana series and is Sophia Montgomery and Josh Shaw.
This was an emotional read as Sophia reels from the death of her father and was heartwarming and heartbreaking.
I enjoy friends to lovers, small town stories and Ms. Elliott has an affinity for both genres. The characters were easy to relate too and the story was well written and well paced.
I loved their journey, it was sweet, romantic and emotional.
Perfect Enough was a good addition to the Love in Montana series and is Sophia Montgomery and Josh Shaw.
This was an emotional read as Sophia reels from the death of her father and was heartwarming and heartbreaking.
I enjoy friends to lovers, small town stories and Ms. Elliott has an affinity for both genres. The characters were easy to relate too and the story was well written and well paced.
I loved their journey, it was sweet, romantic and emotional.
October 29, 2024
4.5 stars
The series keeps getting better, the last two books have stuck with me. I am getting much too attached to the Shaw family and all the extended relations. I adored the parents, but I think the second generation has topped them.
Sophia and Josh’s story will grab your heart and squeeze it. The emotions, romance, and the characters, combined with Elliott’s storytelling, are an addicting combination. The first time they meet in person is swoon-worthy, and the texts are perfect, as this is how the two initially meet. Much like the last book, a few tears were shed, but this family is just that special.
With one book remaining, I know Nate will be falling hard!
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
The series keeps getting better, the last two books have stuck with me. I am getting much too attached to the Shaw family and all the extended relations. I adored the parents, but I think the second generation has topped them.
Sophia and Josh’s story will grab your heart and squeeze it. The emotions, romance, and the characters, combined with Elliott’s storytelling, are an addicting combination. The first time they meet in person is swoon-worthy, and the texts are perfect, as this is how the two initially meet. Much like the last book, a few tears were shed, but this family is just that special.
With one book remaining, I know Nate will be falling hard!
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
October 23, 2024
4.25 stars—PERFECT ENOUGH is the eighth instalment in Kelly Elliott’s contemporary adult, LOVE IN MONTANA erotic, romance series, a spin off from the author’s Meet Me in Montana series. This is twenty-two year old firefighter/ rancher Joshua Shaw, and dance instructor Sophia Montgomery’s story line. PERFECT ENOUGH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but for back story and cohesion I recommend reading the series in order.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Josh and Sophia ) PERFECT ENOUGH follows the building romance and relationship between firefighter / rancher Joshua Shaw, and dance instructor Sophia Montgomery. Months earlier, Sophia’s father died, leaving a grieving young woman who wanted to know why. Almost daily, Sophia would text her father’s cell number, just to talk about her struggles and pain. Joshua Shaw works part time as a firefighter but having lost his phone, the captain set him up with a new phone and new number, a number that would bring our story line couple together. Texting and talking as ‘friends’ would quickly building into something more when Sophia needed a plus one for her cousin’s wedding, agreeing to a fake relationship with our story line hero. As the line between real and fake begins to blur, tragedy strikes the Shaw family, and Sophia discovers the truth about her father’s death, ultimately finding herself on the receiving end of Joshua’s pain and grief.
The world building follows several paths including Sophia’s career turns, her mother’s need to more forward; Josh’s life as a firefighter vs his life on the ranch, and the loss of a beloved family member Who has left a lifelong impression on our story line hero.
The relationship between Josh and Sophia begins with a text meant for someone else. Sophia struggles in the wake of her father’s death, needing someone to talk to as her own grief continues to spiral. Josh has watched from the sidelines as his siblings and cousins found their own happily ever afters, while he and his cousin Nate never thought they would find the one. As the relationship between Sophia and Josh grows into something more, heartbreak and pain push Sophia to the side as Josh battles the demons in his head. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.
Once again,there is a large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters most of whom we have met in the previous story lines and original series, and at every Shaw Family game night. We are reintroduced to Josh cousin’s Nate, and the bane of his existence Haven Larson.
PERFECT ENOUGH is a story of loss and grief, struggle and heart break, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is emotional and captivating ; the romance is seductive and impassioned; the characters are charismatic and charming.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Josh and Sophia ) PERFECT ENOUGH follows the building romance and relationship between firefighter / rancher Joshua Shaw, and dance instructor Sophia Montgomery. Months earlier, Sophia’s father died, leaving a grieving young woman who wanted to know why. Almost daily, Sophia would text her father’s cell number, just to talk about her struggles and pain. Joshua Shaw works part time as a firefighter but having lost his phone, the captain set him up with a new phone and new number, a number that would bring our story line couple together. Texting and talking as ‘friends’ would quickly building into something more when Sophia needed a plus one for her cousin’s wedding, agreeing to a fake relationship with our story line hero. As the line between real and fake begins to blur, tragedy strikes the Shaw family, and Sophia discovers the truth about her father’s death, ultimately finding herself on the receiving end of Joshua’s pain and grief.
The world building follows several paths including Sophia’s career turns, her mother’s need to more forward; Josh’s life as a firefighter vs his life on the ranch, and the loss of a beloved family member Who has left a lifelong impression on our story line hero.
The relationship between Josh and Sophia begins with a text meant for someone else. Sophia struggles in the wake of her father’s death, needing someone to talk to as her own grief continues to spiral. Josh has watched from the sidelines as his siblings and cousins found their own happily ever afters, while he and his cousin Nate never thought they would find the one. As the relationship between Sophia and Josh grows into something more, heartbreak and pain push Sophia to the side as Josh battles the demons in his head. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.
Once again,there is a large ensemble cast of colorful and familiar secondary and supporting characters most of whom we have met in the previous story lines and original series, and at every Shaw Family game night. We are reintroduced to Josh cousin’s Nate, and the bane of his existence Haven Larson.
PERFECT ENOUGH is a story of loss and grief, struggle and heart break, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is emotional and captivating ; the romance is seductive and impassioned; the characters are charismatic and charming.
copy supplied for review
November 1, 2024
**Book Review: Perfect Enough by Kelly Elliott**
Kelly Elliott’s “Perfect Enough” is a heartfelt and emotional journey that delves into love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships. In this beautifully crafted contemporary romance, Elliott weaves a narrative that is both relatable and poignant, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.
The story centers around the lives of two central characters, each navigating their own struggles and insecurities. Elliott excels at creating well-rounded, authentic characters, allowing readers to connect with their desires and fears. The protagonist’s journey toward understanding what “perfect” really means is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through moments of joy, heartache, and introspection, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster of emotions that elicits empathy and reflection.
Elliott’s writing style is both warm and inviting, drawing readers into the world she has created. Her ability to infuse humor, tension, and romance into the narrative keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. The dialogue flows effortlessly, and the chemistry between the characters is palpable, adding depth to their interactions and experiences.
Themes of acceptance and the idea that perfection is an elusive concept resonate throughout the book. Elliott skillfully explores the idea that love is not about finding someone who is perfect, but rather about embracing the imperfections that make us human. This message is woven seamlessly into the plot, providing a necessary dose of realism amid the romance.
One of the standout elements of “Perfect Enough” is its rich setting, which adds texture to the storyline. Elliott's vivid descriptions allow readers to visualize the environments the characters inhabit, enhancing their journey and emotional evolution.
However, while the book delivers a satisfying romantic arc, some readers may find certain plot developments predictable. Despite this, the strength of the characters and the emotional depth of their journeys make the story enjoyable and worthwhile.
In conclusion, “Perfect Enough” is a touching exploration of love and self-acceptance that will resonate with many readers. Kelly Elliott has crafted a story that balances humor with heartfelt moments, creating a narrative that is both uplifting and reflective. It’s a reminder that while we may strive for perfection, embracing our imperfections can lead us to true happiness and love. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a relatable and inspiring romance.
Kelly Elliott’s “Perfect Enough” is a heartfelt and emotional journey that delves into love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships. In this beautifully crafted contemporary romance, Elliott weaves a narrative that is both relatable and poignant, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.
The story centers around the lives of two central characters, each navigating their own struggles and insecurities. Elliott excels at creating well-rounded, authentic characters, allowing readers to connect with their desires and fears. The protagonist’s journey toward understanding what “perfect” really means is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through moments of joy, heartache, and introspection, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster of emotions that elicits empathy and reflection.
Elliott’s writing style is both warm and inviting, drawing readers into the world she has created. Her ability to infuse humor, tension, and romance into the narrative keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. The dialogue flows effortlessly, and the chemistry between the characters is palpable, adding depth to their interactions and experiences.
Themes of acceptance and the idea that perfection is an elusive concept resonate throughout the book. Elliott skillfully explores the idea that love is not about finding someone who is perfect, but rather about embracing the imperfections that make us human. This message is woven seamlessly into the plot, providing a necessary dose of realism amid the romance.
One of the standout elements of “Perfect Enough” is its rich setting, which adds texture to the storyline. Elliott's vivid descriptions allow readers to visualize the environments the characters inhabit, enhancing their journey and emotional evolution.
However, while the book delivers a satisfying romantic arc, some readers may find certain plot developments predictable. Despite this, the strength of the characters and the emotional depth of their journeys make the story enjoyable and worthwhile.
In conclusion, “Perfect Enough” is a touching exploration of love and self-acceptance that will resonate with many readers. Kelly Elliott has crafted a story that balances humor with heartfelt moments, creating a narrative that is both uplifting and reflective. It’s a reminder that while we may strive for perfection, embracing our imperfections can lead us to true happiness and love. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a relatable and inspiring romance.
October 31, 2024
5 Finding Their Perfect Person Stars!!
I can’t even begin to tell you how much I loved this book. It’s filled with emotions I wasn’t expecting, witty banter, family interference, a romance that was unexpected and sizzling sexy times!
Josh and Sophie meet under the most unexpected circumstances when he gets a new phone and number and it just so happens that this number belonged to Sophie’s dad and one night in her grief she texted her Dad’s number and Josh answered. And so began a friendship that grew over many text messages until the night Sophie asks a big favor… things between these two take a different turn and I’m here to tell you, it’s one the best meet cutes and romances that I’ve ever read.
Josh is a firefighter while also working the family ranch and hasn’t really had a serious relationship and so his feelings for Soph are eye-opening and intense because there’s a draw to her that he wasn’t expecting. Their first date had me smiling and I loved having a ringside seat to them falling in love and experiencing all sorts of firsts together.
Soph is an amazing young woman that has a Mom that just can’t seem to help herself and being all “helicopter parent” on her. As this story progresses we see a change in their relationship and it’s for the better but there were some tense moments that had them both making some decisions that are life changing.
This book wouldn’t be the same if we didn’t spend all sorts of time with the Shaw family. There were the family meals and game nights that can be somewhat overwhelming especially when Soph meets them for the first time. So many laughs at these gatherings. There were also some unexpected emotional moments that truly took the rug out from beneath me. Leave it to Ms. Elliott to throw a loop in story just to keep us on our toes!
Overall, this book is one that resonated with me in so many ways and seeing a friendship that our H/h needed but didn’t realize it, turning to a lifetime love was everything I love as a reader. We only have one more book in this series and it’s going to be a doozy. I’m going to be sad when we leave Hamilton, Montana.
I can’t even begin to tell you how much I loved this book. It’s filled with emotions I wasn’t expecting, witty banter, family interference, a romance that was unexpected and sizzling sexy times!
Josh and Sophie meet under the most unexpected circumstances when he gets a new phone and number and it just so happens that this number belonged to Sophie’s dad and one night in her grief she texted her Dad’s number and Josh answered. And so began a friendship that grew over many text messages until the night Sophie asks a big favor… things between these two take a different turn and I’m here to tell you, it’s one the best meet cutes and romances that I’ve ever read.
Josh is a firefighter while also working the family ranch and hasn’t really had a serious relationship and so his feelings for Soph are eye-opening and intense because there’s a draw to her that he wasn’t expecting. Their first date had me smiling and I loved having a ringside seat to them falling in love and experiencing all sorts of firsts together.
Soph is an amazing young woman that has a Mom that just can’t seem to help herself and being all “helicopter parent” on her. As this story progresses we see a change in their relationship and it’s for the better but there were some tense moments that had them both making some decisions that are life changing.
This book wouldn’t be the same if we didn’t spend all sorts of time with the Shaw family. There were the family meals and game nights that can be somewhat overwhelming especially when Soph meets them for the first time. So many laughs at these gatherings. There were also some unexpected emotional moments that truly took the rug out from beneath me. Leave it to Ms. Elliott to throw a loop in story just to keep us on our toes!
Overall, this book is one that resonated with me in so many ways and seeing a friendship that our H/h needed but didn’t realize it, turning to a lifetime love was everything I love as a reader. We only have one more book in this series and it’s going to be a doozy. I’m going to be sad when we leave Hamilton, Montana.
October 26, 2024
Sophia is working through the grief of losing her father, who died by suicide. In coping, she would text his number some of her feelings. One day, when she texts the number, she gets a reply. The text changes her life as she starts talking to the sweet Josh. Feeling some pressure from her mothers to date after getting out of a bad relationship, she says she is dating Josh. Josh agrees to be her fake boyfriend, but when they meet, sparks fly. This relationship suddenly becomes all too real. The couple must deal with the stress in their personal lives while deciding if they can move forward together.
This was a great read. Josh is a kind, generous person who cares so much for Sophie. I loved the scenes where he stood up for Sophie with her extended family. As the relationship progresses, Sophie becomes the person who supports Josh as he goes through his pain. The connection between these two is immediate and they care for each other deeply. These two were so in love, but had their own personal struggles, figuring out their careers and moving forward in their life.
This book deals with tough subject matters, such as grief and loss, but the author handles them gently. Josh has a huge supportive family who add a layer to this story. We were also introduced to Sophia’s mom and friends, who were strong supports for her.
This is the 8th book in an interconnected stand-alone series, but it was easy to pick up without reading the previous books. I am, however, going back to read the other stories, as I loved and enjoyed Kelly Elliott’s writing. If you love a fake dating love story, tackling some tough topics, this is the book for you! Thank you to Grey’s PR and the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
This was a great read. Josh is a kind, generous person who cares so much for Sophie. I loved the scenes where he stood up for Sophie with her extended family. As the relationship progresses, Sophie becomes the person who supports Josh as he goes through his pain. The connection between these two is immediate and they care for each other deeply. These two were so in love, but had their own personal struggles, figuring out their careers and moving forward in their life.
This book deals with tough subject matters, such as grief and loss, but the author handles them gently. Josh has a huge supportive family who add a layer to this story. We were also introduced to Sophia’s mom and friends, who were strong supports for her.
This is the 8th book in an interconnected stand-alone series, but it was easy to pick up without reading the previous books. I am, however, going back to read the other stories, as I loved and enjoyed Kelly Elliott’s writing. If you love a fake dating love story, tackling some tough topics, this is the book for you! Thank you to Grey’s PR and the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
October 29, 2024
“Perfect Enough” is book 8 in Kelly Elliott’s “Love in Montana” series. As usual, I have read none from this author. This happens to me all the time! I discover a series when I read the last or latest book…
Anyway, the story starts with a random message that Josh Shaw receives on his work phone from a grieving soul. Sophia has been sending messages to the same number her father used to have. And thus, our characters connect.
As they navigate their growing feelings, Josh and Sophia face unexpected challenges, including revelations about her father and a family tragedy that shakes Josh’s world. Despite the obstacles, their love story proves that sometimes, love is more than perfect enough.
What sets this book apart is its genuine portrayal of grief, love, and healing. The chemistry between Josh and Sophia is palpable, making their journey compelling and relatable. The supporting characters add depth to the story, creating a rich tapestry of relationships that readers will cherish.
Kelly Elliott’s writing is heartfelt and engaging, with well-developed characters and a beautiful Montana backdrop. She has a beautiful way of capturing the essence of small-town life and the complexities of human connections, making “Perfect Enough” a memorable read.
I loved the book so much! I cried and smiled with our characters and I cannot wait to go back to the other books in the series. I highly recommend reading this book!
Anyway, the story starts with a random message that Josh Shaw receives on his work phone from a grieving soul. Sophia has been sending messages to the same number her father used to have. And thus, our characters connect.
As they navigate their growing feelings, Josh and Sophia face unexpected challenges, including revelations about her father and a family tragedy that shakes Josh’s world. Despite the obstacles, their love story proves that sometimes, love is more than perfect enough.
What sets this book apart is its genuine portrayal of grief, love, and healing. The chemistry between Josh and Sophia is palpable, making their journey compelling and relatable. The supporting characters add depth to the story, creating a rich tapestry of relationships that readers will cherish.
Kelly Elliott’s writing is heartfelt and engaging, with well-developed characters and a beautiful Montana backdrop. She has a beautiful way of capturing the essence of small-town life and the complexities of human connections, making “Perfect Enough” a memorable read.
I loved the book so much! I cried and smiled with our characters and I cannot wait to go back to the other books in the series. I highly recommend reading this book!
October 18, 2024
Perfect Enough by Kelly Elliott is the story of Joshuah Ty Shaw, the son of Ty Jr. and Kaylee and the brother of Rose Marie. Josh and his cousin, Nathan, are very close in age and were raised together on the ranch; they are the last single Shaws. They are more like brothers than cousins. Josh and Nate have watched their older siblings and cousins fall in love, marry, and start their families, but only one is looking for that for themselves. The other is more of a playboy, starkly contrasting Josh's steadfast beliefs about love and relationships. Josh believes certain intimacies are worth waiting for, and he thinks he has found the woman who could be his forever, Sophia Montgomery. Sophia Montgomery is a dance instructor working for her parent's studio. She teaches and does accounting for the business, but she recently suffered a tragic loss that changed everything. This loss, which is a significant part of her life, has left her in a state of contemplation and grief. While contemplating her grief, she texts her father's phone number and receives a reply that starts a whole new chapter in her life.
Perfect Enough, the penultimate book in the series, delves into serious issues while promising a happy ever after. As a fan of the series, I eagerly anticipate Nate's story, which has yet to unfold.
Perfect Enough, the penultimate book in the series, delves into serious issues while promising a happy ever after. As a fan of the series, I eagerly anticipate Nate's story, which has yet to unfold.
October 24, 2024
Perfect Enough is the eighth book in the Love in Montana series by Kelly Elliott following the second generation of the kids from the couples of the Meet Me in Montana series. Perfect Enough tells the story of Josh and Sophia and how a text message led to a meaningful friendship and an emotional relationship. Josh has waited patiently for the woman of his dreams and after getting that first text message from Sophia, he knew there was something special about her. Sophia was struggling and feeling lost so she texted her father’s old number only to have Josh respond and almost instantly their messages back and forth changed her life.
Josh and Sophia have a great connection and I was glad to see Josh finally find the woman of his dreams after he’s watched his sister and cousins all find their happily ever after (expect for Nate). This book was emotional in a big way and changed the dynamic of the Shaw family. I know they are a fictional family but my heart went out to all of them and I wish I could give them all hugs especially Josh.
The last book in the series will be Nate’s story and I already love his heroine, Haven and the few interactions we’ve seen of them. Nate and Haven went to school together and she’s also Sophia’s new business partner.
Thank you @greyspromo and @authorkellyelliott for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Josh and Sophia have a great connection and I was glad to see Josh finally find the woman of his dreams after he’s watched his sister and cousins all find their happily ever after (expect for Nate). This book was emotional in a big way and changed the dynamic of the Shaw family. I know they are a fictional family but my heart went out to all of them and I wish I could give them all hugs especially Josh.
The last book in the series will be Nate’s story and I already love his heroine, Haven and the few interactions we’ve seen of them. Nate and Haven went to school together and she’s also Sophia’s new business partner.
Thank you @greyspromo and @authorkellyelliott for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
October 28, 2024
This is the eighth book in this series. They can be read as standalone books. I have only read one other book in this series and wasn't lost at all. Josh and Sophia meet in an unusual way. Sophia recently lost her father. In a moment of wanting to connect with him again she texted his number not knowing that her mother had cancelled the line and the number had been given to someone else. Josh feels for this person who is texting him meaning to text someone else. One day he feels like he needs to message back so he does. Sophia is completely surprised when she receives a message back from her father. Thus begins Josh and Sophia's friendship. Sophia's mother is more pushy about her life than normal and won't stop trying to mettle in her romantic life. Josh offers for Sophia to say he is her boyfriend to help out. Who knew that this could change everything for them both. It isn't enough to just say she has a boyfriend. Her mother wants to meet him and get to know him. When the two look each other up their is an instant attraction. Then when they meet it grows. Could there be more than friendship here? Could they have a happily ever after? This book was a great sweet read with some interesting twists. I couldn't put this book down once I started reading. These characters are wonderful and I can't wait to read more books in this series. Fantastic job Kelly.
October 5, 2024
This is the perfect mix of love and heartbreak. Kelly Elliott always brings you a storyline that is gripping and enjoyable. She never disappoints. Josh is hard working and a family man. He works as a firefighter and on the family ranch. One day he receives a message from an unknown number. A message that will forever change his life in so many ways. I absolutely love this idea. Random text message and the person responding back and a conversation is started that turns into something more.
Sophia is missing her dad. She is trying to deal with life, moving on from the death of her dad, and her overcontrolling mother. But the hardest thing is not knowing why things happened the way they did. She sends her dad's phone number a message not knowing that Josh now has that number. But he reaches out and a conversation begins. But this because more quickly when Sophia needs Josh's help.
I absolutely love the chemistry between these two. You can easily see even through text messages how easy they will get along. But when tragedy strikes will Josh end up pushing her away?
Amazingly written two very strong characters who see battle alot but come through in the end. I absolutely love any book from Kelly and this one will show you why. Highly recommend.
Sophia is missing her dad. She is trying to deal with life, moving on from the death of her dad, and her overcontrolling mother. But the hardest thing is not knowing why things happened the way they did. She sends her dad's phone number a message not knowing that Josh now has that number. But he reaches out and a conversation begins. But this because more quickly when Sophia needs Josh's help.
I absolutely love the chemistry between these two. You can easily see even through text messages how easy they will get along. But when tragedy strikes will Josh end up pushing her away?
Amazingly written two very strong characters who see battle alot but come through in the end. I absolutely love any book from Kelly and this one will show you why. Highly recommend.
October 18, 2024
Get ready for Josh and his possible chance at forever! He and Sophia may have met due to a sad twist of fate, but they’re destined to be so very important to each other. But when the tragedy I’ve been fearing strikes, someone may not be able to deal very well with the crushing feelings that come with the aftermath. And that someone might say very hurtful things, then all but ghost the other. But I promise, it does all work out. Spectacularly, I might add.
Sophia is sort of perfect for this family. And for Josh. She’s smart and loyal and loving and caring and so very competitive that she fits into the family feud events perfectly. I do mean that. She’s deserving of everything good in her life and even Nate can see just how good she is for Josh. So he backs off of the teasing a bit, partially because Sophia is quick with the wit and proves that Nate doesn’t scare her.
While these two take a bit of a slow burn path, they definitely scorch the whole house when they finally get all feelings and desires communicated with clear heads and full hearts. Which means only Nate is left standing alone. I can’t wait for his forever because we already know her and I’m pretty sure he’s got quite some humbling moments ahead!
Sophia is sort of perfect for this family. And for Josh. She’s smart and loyal and loving and caring and so very competitive that she fits into the family feud events perfectly. I do mean that. She’s deserving of everything good in her life and even Nate can see just how good she is for Josh. So he backs off of the teasing a bit, partially because Sophia is quick with the wit and proves that Nate doesn’t scare her.
While these two take a bit of a slow burn path, they definitely scorch the whole house when they finally get all feelings and desires communicated with clear heads and full hearts. Which means only Nate is left standing alone. I can’t wait for his forever because we already know her and I’m pretty sure he’s got quite some humbling moments ahead!
October 26, 2024
Perfect Enough is simply amazing. I loved this one so much. Josh's book gives you all this feels you have grown to love and then some in the Love in Montana series. Josh is one of the younger member of the Shaw family and he's been waiting for his one. He is a sweetheart just trying to balance his firefighting life and his work on the family ranch. This book will pull at your heartstrings over and over and you may need a few tissues in time too. Sophia is so lovely. She is still trying to grieve for her father's death and keep the love of dance going. You feel for her as she searches for answers on trying to move forward. I love the meet cute with Josh and Sophia so much. You feel the chemistry right from the start as they slowly get to know each other. You feel how the friendship grows and sparks fly as they grow closer. Sophia fits right in with the entire Shaw family. I love how Josh stands by Sophia and how Sophia shows her own love and support for Josh when he needs it the most. This book was just a perfect combination of sweet and sexy along with the those giggle moments and year jerking ones too. I could not put this down. I loved every moment of Josh and Sophia. You need to meet them now.
October 28, 2024
"Perfect Enough by Kelly Elliott is a heartwarming, emotional romance that revolves around themes of love, grief, and resilience. The story follows Josh Shaw, who yearns for the deep, lasting love that he’s seen in his family, and Sophia Montgomery, who is grieving her father's unexpected death. A fateful text message connects them, sparking a sweet and emotional journey.
One of the novel’s strengths is the slow build of Josh and Sophia’s relationship, transitioning from text friends to something much deeper. Their chemistry is palpable, and the fake-boyfriend trope is handled with charm, making their instant connection believable. The narrative explores deep themes like coping with grief, the weight of family expectations, and the unpredictability of life, all while maintaining a light and hopeful tone.
The revelations about Sophia's father and a Shaw family tragedy add a layer of emotional depth, challenging the couple in ways they hadn’t anticipated. This tension keeps the plot engaging, balancing the romance with real-life struggles.
Overall, the novel’s message is that while life isn't perfect, love and mutual support can make everything more than ""perfect enough."" It’s an uplifting read for fans of sweet romance with an emotional edge."
One of the novel’s strengths is the slow build of Josh and Sophia’s relationship, transitioning from text friends to something much deeper. Their chemistry is palpable, and the fake-boyfriend trope is handled with charm, making their instant connection believable. The narrative explores deep themes like coping with grief, the weight of family expectations, and the unpredictability of life, all while maintaining a light and hopeful tone.
The revelations about Sophia's father and a Shaw family tragedy add a layer of emotional depth, challenging the couple in ways they hadn’t anticipated. This tension keeps the plot engaging, balancing the romance with real-life struggles.
Overall, the novel’s message is that while life isn't perfect, love and mutual support can make everything more than ""perfect enough."" It’s an uplifting read for fans of sweet romance with an emotional edge."
October 28, 2024
Josh is splinting his time work as a firefighter and on his family ranch. When he gets a new work phone, he also starts getting msg from someone who misses someone dear. When he responds to it, he never anticipated what would find him on the other side of the line, his soul mate.
Sophia is missing her father. She's texting his number, not knowing it is in use once again. When she's feeling down, someone responds and soon she finds another friend to share her day with. When her mother pushes her to start to date, she and Josh come to an agreement for him to step in the shoes of her supposed boyfriend. And as time goes on their feelings start to grow and both are sure that they found their person to spend the rest of their lives with.
I've got to say I've read the last 3 books in the series, and I cannot wrap my head around the fact how much i love this family. Josh and Sophia are both young, but they both possessed the maturity that helped them even when things got hard. After finishing this to say I'm excited about Nate finding his person is an understatement. That boy needs a good wake-up call and I'm here for it when it finds him.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Sophia is missing her father. She's texting his number, not knowing it is in use once again. When she's feeling down, someone responds and soon she finds another friend to share her day with. When her mother pushes her to start to date, she and Josh come to an agreement for him to step in the shoes of her supposed boyfriend. And as time goes on their feelings start to grow and both are sure that they found their person to spend the rest of their lives with.
I've got to say I've read the last 3 books in the series, and I cannot wrap my head around the fact how much i love this family. Josh and Sophia are both young, but they both possessed the maturity that helped them even when things got hard. After finishing this to say I'm excited about Nate finding his person is an understatement. That boy needs a good wake-up call and I'm here for it when it finds him.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
October 29, 2024
4.5 Stars
This is the eighth installment of the series and though could be read as a standalone, I suggest reading the series for the full story depth. Emotions are high as both characters deal with a loss and grief in this book, but there is still plenty of swoon worthy moments.
Sophia seems to have everything coming at her at once. While dealing with the loss of her father, she sends him a text to his phone. Little does she know, her mom has cancelled it and the number now belongs to someone else. When she gets a response she is shocked.
Josh has watched all of his cousins find their partner and other half, just like their parents all did before. When you are part of such a big loving family that is so close it is hard not to want what everyone else has. He has stuck strong to his beliefs and is waiting for that one who changes everything.
Little does he know that being nice and starting a friendship with a stranger who is sad, could make such a difference in his life. A slow burn friendship to more. A partner to hold you up when you want to fall down and let life pass you by.
Grab your copy get cozy and enjoy the craziness that is the Shaw family one more time.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
This is the eighth installment of the series and though could be read as a standalone, I suggest reading the series for the full story depth. Emotions are high as both characters deal with a loss and grief in this book, but there is still plenty of swoon worthy moments.
Sophia seems to have everything coming at her at once. While dealing with the loss of her father, she sends him a text to his phone. Little does she know, her mom has cancelled it and the number now belongs to someone else. When she gets a response she is shocked.
Josh has watched all of his cousins find their partner and other half, just like their parents all did before. When you are part of such a big loving family that is so close it is hard not to want what everyone else has. He has stuck strong to his beliefs and is waiting for that one who changes everything.
Little does he know that being nice and starting a friendship with a stranger who is sad, could make such a difference in his life. A slow burn friendship to more. A partner to hold you up when you want to fall down and let life pass you by.
Grab your copy get cozy and enjoy the craziness that is the Shaw family one more time.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
October 30, 2024
*4 stars*
I'm definitely enjoying this series and was happy to see another book coming out. I loved the chemistry between Josh & Sophie but also the feel of the story that was full of love, laughter but also some heartache that you could definitely relate to. It was a true rollercoaster ride of emotions. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the story from beginning until the end. Can't wait to see what is next in store.
Josh loves the way his life has been going as he's a firefighter but also works on his family's farm but always had the sense that something was missing in his life. When his job gives him a new phone and new number, everything might change when a message comes through that's not really for him. Sophie never really expected someone to answer her texts but there's some sort of relief and hope that it gives her. While they are getting to know each other through messages, everyone around them seems to be excited that they are dating but no one really knows the full truth. As time goes by, they meet face to face and there's just something between them that ignites the spark even more. Their friendship soon starts to change into something more but when tragedy strikes, they'll have to find a way to hold on to what they've build. Will everything be allright in the end?...
I'm definitely enjoying this series and was happy to see another book coming out. I loved the chemistry between Josh & Sophie but also the feel of the story that was full of love, laughter but also some heartache that you could definitely relate to. It was a true rollercoaster ride of emotions. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the story from beginning until the end. Can't wait to see what is next in store.
Josh loves the way his life has been going as he's a firefighter but also works on his family's farm but always had the sense that something was missing in his life. When his job gives him a new phone and new number, everything might change when a message comes through that's not really for him. Sophie never really expected someone to answer her texts but there's some sort of relief and hope that it gives her. While they are getting to know each other through messages, everyone around them seems to be excited that they are dating but no one really knows the full truth. As time goes by, they meet face to face and there's just something between them that ignites the spark even more. Their friendship soon starts to change into something more but when tragedy strikes, they'll have to find a way to hold on to what they've build. Will everything be allright in the end?...
October 31, 2024
4/5⭐️
I loved Josh and Sophia's story. Their meet-cute, fate. I mean, he got her dad's old phone number. I would have liked to see more of that month long communication before they met in person.
One thing was mentioned that was incorrect. At the wedding, Lou was introduced as the hand at aunt Lincoln's you-pick-it farm. Merit and Dirk Littlewood own the you-pick-it farm.
Speaking of Lou.... so many Lou's in this story. Farmhand Lou, Lou-Lou the horse, and Lou the dog. 😂
I cried so hard when Ty Senior passed. Having read all the Meet me in Montana books and all the Love In Montana books, it was rough for me. Ty was the glue. He raised his sons the right way, then in turn they raised their kids to be good people. 🥺
The convo between Stella and Josh. Ugh... made me cry too.
Josh is so much like his dad. Being mean when he was hurt and pushing the ones who love them away.
Rhett (Blayze and Georgiana's son) flirting with Sophie just like Blayze did with Kaylee and Lincoln all those years ago cracked me up!
I do feel like this series was a lot and we still have 1 more book to go. The last couple of books have seemed rushed (to me.) But I love the Shaw Family and will be sad to leave them.
I loved Josh and Sophia's story. Their meet-cute, fate. I mean, he got her dad's old phone number. I would have liked to see more of that month long communication before they met in person.
One thing was mentioned that was incorrect. At the wedding, Lou was introduced as the hand at aunt Lincoln's you-pick-it farm. Merit and Dirk Littlewood own the you-pick-it farm.
Speaking of Lou.... so many Lou's in this story. Farmhand Lou, Lou-Lou the horse, and Lou the dog. 😂
I cried so hard when Ty Senior passed. Having read all the Meet me in Montana books and all the Love In Montana books, it was rough for me. Ty was the glue. He raised his sons the right way, then in turn they raised their kids to be good people. 🥺
The convo between Stella and Josh. Ugh... made me cry too.
Josh is so much like his dad. Being mean when he was hurt and pushing the ones who love them away.
Rhett (Blayze and Georgiana's son) flirting with Sophie just like Blayze did with Kaylee and Lincoln all those years ago cracked me up!
I do feel like this series was a lot and we still have 1 more book to go. The last couple of books have seemed rushed (to me.) But I love the Shaw Family and will be sad to leave them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2024
Grieving is hard and when it hits Josh there are things said and regrets it takes a lot of strength, patience and love above all else to overcome. Seeing Josh go through this was hard for me yet in a way Kelly Elliott did it beautiful but still can't believe it has happened. One thing for sure we see Sophia's strength and patience shine with Josh trying find a way to mend and still love one another is hard when she is still trying to fix her life. In many ways Kelly Elliott does the impossible through grief and lost which is to remember the good times not the sadness and realize that it's okay to move on.These two are from different towns and still Kelly Elliott somehow connected them in a way they never expected like kismet. All in all reading Josh's story and seeing every Shaw member and cousin makes you see how talented and truly magical Kelly Elliott is when it comes to this Montana series makes you feel like you a Shaw in many ways. Were almost at the end of this series and can't wait to see what Kelly Elliott does with Nate when love gets him. Awesome Josh and Sofia.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
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