So either I was reading the wrong NA books or they’ve come a LONG way since I last read any because I enjoyed the heck out of this one. I remember looking at the characters from the POV of someone well beyond their college years and just finding them too naive or inexperienced. Not so with Jenshak’s newest.
Felix and Dahlia are adorable together. I liked the fact that Felix had a thing for her before the video hit, that they’d been kinda dancing around each other at parties, so it wasn’t so weird that he’d want to help her. Not that a caring person wouldn’t feel for her in that situation, but it helps to provide a little more connection between the two.
Dahlia is adorably awkward, especially around Felix, but she’s willing to put herself out there in her fake relationship, embracing Felix’s ideas, getting to know his friends, and trying new things. Felix is still a little burned from his last relationship, which he’s fine with since he’s super focused on getting into the NFL. It does lead to some complications when his connection to Dahlia becomes a little more real that their fake relationship was meant to be.
As a series about Dahlia’s friends, they are guaranteed to play a big part of the story and they support Dahlia beautifully. It makes me interested in reading the other books to see a little more about each of them. I also liked Felix’s friends. They may be a little more childish than her’s, but they are fun.
**spoilerish** There were a couple of things that stretched believability, most especially Dahlia’s thing with the rockstar. Maybe the connection came from a previous book that I hadn’t read, but it seems strange that he would contract with a college student to make him a pair of pants, fly her to LA, go all out for her while she’s there, and then let her use his plane … it was one outfit out of a wardrobe of clothes. I think there was something else but this one was the one that made me go “really?” while reading it. I still really enjoyed the book but just thought I’d throw that out there.
Jenshak helps to remind me that maybe I’m not giving NA romances the attention they deserve, and I’ll be keeping my eye on her & adding some of her books to my TBR pile. With enjoyable characters, a sweet love story, and an ending that left me happy, Scoring the Player will appeal to romance readers of all ages.
*****
Author Info:
Rebecca Jenshak is a USA Today bestselling author of new adult and sports romance. She writes sexy, feel-good stories with lots of swoon-worthy moments.
Rebecca lives in Arizona. When she isn’t writing, you can find her cheering on local sports teams, hanging out with friends and family, or curled up with a good book.
He’s a shy hockey heartthrob. She’s not afraid to ask for what she wants. Can these two find a neutral zone?
To my fans, I’m known as Ivan Fitzgerald.
To my teammates, I’m just Fitz.
And to the girl I’ve been talking to online, I’m ShootsAndScores.
There’s no doubt in my mind that the woman on the other side of the screen is completely out of my league. Why wouldn’t she be? Sure, I’m a professional hockey player, but that doesn’t mean anything when I’m shy and awkward in the most basic social situations and she’s a fiery vixen who oozes sex appeal.
No matter how badly I want her, I can’t have her. Because the woman I love watching so much? The one I might be slowly falling for?
She’s not just some stranger on the internet. It’s Rosie, the woman who serves me coffee and donuts every morning.
And she has no clue it’s me.
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
I’ll be honest, I really didn’t like what Fitz did to Rosie at the beginning. Maybe it would have helped if I’d read the rest of the books but to me Fitz just had a little bit of a self-confidence issue when it comes to women thanks bad reactions from them in his past. He’s not all that awkward, but definitely a bit shy because of it. But that definitely doesn’t excuse his actions and I pushed through it because the series is well liked on Goodreads & the mains were cute together. I’m glad I did because once they got past Fitz being ShootsAndScores it picked up. And showed that Fitz isn’t the only one coming into the relationship with some baggage.
I love how Fitz and Rosie complement each other so well. How Fitz praises and supports Rosie is a total relationship goal as is Rosie’s complete and effortless acceptance of some of Fritz’s preferences (which were not so well received by women in the past, leading to some of his issues). They make a great couple; I just wish that Fitz had taken one of the multitude of opportunities provided to him to tell Rosie who he was to her.
Readers have to be ok with a bit of lying, even by omission and out of fear for how it would be received, but if they stick it out they will be rewarded with a delightfully fun and well-suited couple.
*****
Author Info:
TEAGAN HUNTER writes steamy romantic comedies with lots of sarcasm and a side of heart. She loves pizza, hockey, and romance novels, though not in that order. When not writing, you can find her watching entirely too many hours of Supernatural, One Tree Hill, or New Girl. She’s mildly obsessed with Halloween and prefers cooler weather. She married her high school sweetheart, and they currently live in the PNW.
Kieran Sullivan is broken when he arrives at Redemption Ridge. A wrongful conviction and twenty months in lockup will do that to a man. The ranch is a place for second chances and fresh starts, but for him, it’s an opportunity to discover who set him up. Get in, get answers, and get out. The plan sounds easy enough until Kieran meets an equine specialist whose sunny smile could warm the coldest heart.
Finley Ashe is a sucker for bruised spirits and sad eyes. The horse whisperer and broken-boy magnet is six months into a hiatus from love when Kieran, the king of emotionally unavailable men, gets assigned to work under his supervision. Mutual attraction is gasoline on proximity’s flame, testing Finley’s resistance in new ways.
Priorities shift, shields come down, and truths get exposed. Will the inevitable combustion redeem Kieran and Finley or consume them?
Guys Like Him is book one in the Redemption Ridge series. Though each story features a different couple, reading the series in order is essential. Guys Like Him contains mature themes and is intended for adults.
Thick gray clouds hovered overhead, rolling like the anger churning inside him. For the past year, he’d expressed his eagerness to put the past behind him and start fresh. That’s what the prison counselors and the people with power over him wanted to hear, so that was the bullshit he fed them. But privately, Kieran tended to his bitterness like a stew on the stove. He knew when to adjust the heat and which ingredients to add to the pot to keep his resentment sharp. And the fucking drab sky and clouds only antagonized him more.
For twenty months, his entire existence had been gray—the floors and walls, the food, and the pallor of the inmates’ skin. The only break in the monotony were the prison scrubs. He would happily go the rest of his life without seeing the color orange again. Kieran had foolishly allowed himself to daydream about the vibrancy he’d see on release day, but he’d just gotten more of the same. Everything around him was wet and shiny from the rain, but it was more of a piss on his parade than a refreshing, clean slate. Kieran’s olfactory senses zeroed in on the motor oil brought to the asphalt’s surface by the shower. It was a scent he knew all too well, and it became a match to his pilot light. Rainwater splashed up on his feet and shins as he walked, but his wrath made him impervious to the chill. Kieran reached inside the padded envelope, removed the wallet, and stuffed it into his back pocket. Then he tossed the envelope with the cell phone into the trash bin. The device was dead, the contract canceled, and there was no one on the contact list he wanted to speak to anymore.
A slight breeze stirred the air, and Kieran closed his eyes and tipped his head back. Yeah, he’d enjoyed fresh air during breaks in the yard, but they never lasted long enough and were controlled by someone else. He’d lived long enough like a marionette, and there was no better time to embrace free will. The weather wasn’t what he’d hoped for, but he got to enjoy it outside the fences, and that was a victory he’d stop and embrace.
A rumbling engine caught his attention, and he opened his eyes in time to see a black king cab truck with a silver Redemption Ridge logo stop in front of the facility. The guy behind the wheel wasn’t a chauffeur, but he was there for Kieran just the same. A year ago, he set a plan into motion, and Cash Sweeney’s presence proved it had worked.
Kieran’s good behavior had gained him access to the K9 programs at Arrowhead, where he’d met Cash and his dogs from Redemption Ridge. The front passenger window rolled down, and a familiar black-and-white head poked out. Patsy, a border collie, was the first dog he’d met during the program, and it had been love at first sight for them. It turned out Kieran had a sixth sense when working with animals, especially the shyest ones. His talents had captured Cash’s notice, and he’d offered Kieran employment and housing on his ranch, where he rehabilitated horses and dogs. Kieran’s participation in the program and the subsequent employment opportunity hadn’t been divine intervention or luck; it was all part of his carefully orchestrated plan.
*****
Review:
This one is a slow burn, low angst romance and while it’s a complete romance it’s also an introduction to a larger storyline that will go over a couple more books at least. I think knowing that helps because some of it feels unnecessary and other parts are kinda left hanging. Definitely a standalone-but-not kind of situation 🙂
Kieran, just out of prison, has one thing on his mind when he gets to Redemption Ranch – get revenge on the people who send him to jail for something he didn’t do. And then he meets Finley. The draw is undeniable, but Kieran tries so hard to keep in mind why he’s really there.
Finley has always been drawn to men who are not good for him – the broken ones – and no one fits that bill more than Kieran. But past relationships have left Finley with a bruised heart and he’s not too anxious to do that again. If only he can resist his new ranch hand.
There’s a lot of fighting their feelings, inner dialogue moments in the early parts of the story so it takes a while for these two to finally give in to their attraction but it’s worth it when they do. (It also gives readers a chance to get to know a little bit about the ranch and everyone who lives there.) **Slight spoiler ahead but just a teeny, hint of one** Part of that includes the two of them trying to get more info on what happened with Kieran’s past. But a lot of the resolution of it happens offscreen, which I think some readers were frustrated with. I’m going to give the author the benefit of the doubt and hope that it comes into play more in a later story.
This is only the second of this author’s books that I’ve read and I’m looking forward to more. Her mains are likeable, interacting well together with a good combination of humor & heat, and she does well at giving us intriguing secondary characters. Finley’s mother, stepfather, and sister are a hoot, but the love between them is there for everyone to see. And the others at the ranch all seem like good guys, with pasts that could be a hotbed for complications & depth, and I’m so ready for more about them. Bring it on Ms. Walker!
*****
Author Info:
Ever since she was a little girl, Aimee Nicole Walker entertained herself with stories that popped into her head. Now she gets paid to tell those stories to other people. She wears many titles—wife, mom, and animal lover are just a few of them. Her absolute favorite title is champion of the happily ever after. Love inspires everything she does, music keeps her sane, and coffee is the magic elixir that fuels her day.
Want to be the first to know about my book releases and have access to extra content? You can sign up for my newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/dlhPYj
My favorite place to hang out and chat with my readers is my Facebook group. Would you like to be a member of Aimee’s Dye Hards? We’d love to have you! Click here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/AimeesDyeHards/
A sexy and emotional story about how two best friends secretly fall in love but struggle to keep a heartbreaking secret from tearing them apart.
When I met Greg Foster, the straight tight end for the Portland Pirates, the rookie needed a friend to bring him out of his shell. There was more to the shy twenty-two-year-old bookworm than met the eye, and I was the perfect person for the task. My roommate and best friend, Christian, was involved with the Pirates QB, so a new friend to hang out with was good.
I pushed down my attraction to him and became the best friend he ever had. We bar-hopped all over Portland and played video games in our apartments. We even loved the same indy band from Seattle.
Then we fucked up when we fell in love. And by fucked up, I mean we got married even though we knew our marriage had to remain a secret.
No one knew about us. Not even our closest friends. And every time they asked, we gave them the same line… we’re just friends.
And ultimately, the reason for that secret would tear us apart. Now, here I was three years after meeting him, and wasn’t sure how to survive without him. He was the love of my life, and I was his.
Ineligible Receiver is a friends-to-lovers and bi-awakening story and Book 5 in The Package Deal Series.
“So, Texas Tech, huh? Did you finish your degree, or leave early for the pros?”
Greg took a sip of his beer, then nodded. “Yeah, I got my degree.”
“What is it?” He was going to make me pull it out of him.
“English Literature,” he said, running his big hand over his head.
“You like to read?” I was intrigued.
He nodded again. “Yeah, I love it. Kinda fits my personality.”
“The quiet one?”
He smiled, but not so shyly this time. “Yeah, that one. I’ve never been a partier or anything like that. I’m weird and like to stay home.” He rolled the bottle between his long fingers.
Interesting. “That’s not weird. What else do you do to relax?”
Greg chuckled. “This feels like an interview.”
All I could do was smile. He was so fucking adorable.
“Well,” I said, turning toward him, “just so happens I have a spot open for a new friend, and you seem like the perfect person to fill the position.”
Our eyes met, and my pulse sped up a little. The small smile that crossed his face forced me to smile. He was breathtaking, with green eyes, tanned skin, and that thick light blonde hair. I was really going to have to work to tamp down my lust for him.
“Well, I guess I better finish the interview then.”
I waited. And waited some more.
“Well?”
“That’s a deep subject.” He tried his damndest not to smile.
My eyes widened. “You’ve got dad jokes!” I pushed his shoulder. “What else you hiding in there, rookie?”
Greg laughed and visibly relaxed in front of me. This was good.
“Nothing, I swear.” He took another drink of his beer. “Go back to your interview.”
I had to smile at him. “What do you like to do other than read? That’s not something we could do together. Although, I guess we could. Maybe get a couple of velvet dinner jackets, some armchairs, and pipes to smoke. Would you like that?”
I watched his throat as he laughed at my suggestion. That beautiful smile and a tiny bit of his warmth was beginning to show.
“Uh, that’s not necessary. But it would make a cool picture to send to my brother.”
Okay, he has a brother.
“Brock is almost fourteen. He’s my best friend.”
I smiled. “Well, until now.”
*****
Review:
I was so looking forward to this story and while I loved finally getting Cooper & Greg’s side of things there were a few parts that bothered me enough that I’m regrettably going to have to give this one 3.5 or maybe 3.75 *s. I personally don’t like stories told as flashbacks. It’s disconcerting and stops me from being able to fall completely into the story but I kinda understand why it was done here since we are getting their side of stories that were already told during the previous books (and as such you probably need to have read the rest of them to really enjoy this one). It’s awkward, though, and I think it really doesn’t give them the time their story needs so the idea of them hiding things for so long doesn’t resonate as much. And because of the staccato pacing I didn’t feel for Cooper’s situation as much as I did for Greg’s and so when trouble came I wasn’t on his side like I probably should have been. I think if I had really felt the time passing maybe it would have been different.
Now saying that, while it is a ding it’s not an unforgiveable one and I loved seeing these two fall in love – there are all sorts of feels and heartbreak going on as they make their way to a HEA. Like all of the books up to this point, it takes a little help from their friends for them to get there and it’s a beautiful thing to witness. The support and encouragement that these guys show each other is amazing and exemplifies their closeness as a family. You wish that Greg truly understood that earlier but once his past comes out you can understand why he feels the way he does. It’s unfortunate that he couldn’t trust Cooper and the guys more but on the other hand Cooper does enable that a bit as they go along. And they do show Greg that they are there for him when it truly matters.
A rollercoaster ride of emotions, Ineligible Receiver gives readers, especially those that have been there from the start, a satisfying resolution for two of our favorite people. There may be tears and frustration and even a little anger, but there is also humor and silliness and a whole lotta love. The authors know how to give their readers characters to get behind and keep them coming back for more. (Speaking of, I’m definitely going to be there for Roughing the Kicker! Can’t wait to see what’s in store for Jesse and Dominick 🙂 )
*****
Author Info:
For as long as she can remember, Rheland’s had her nose stuck in a book, getting lost in the world of someone else’s creation (She still does). Her love for writing came from her love for reading. She could never have one without the other.
Writing has always been a hobby and a cathartic experience for her. There are many stories lost to the never to be completed or published pile but needed to be written at the time.
She’s just a girl that loved stories so much she decided to write hers.
Rheland would love to hear from her readers and learn more about y’all. So if you get a chance… Get in touch.
Emerson Beckett is new to the publishing world. As an avid sports fan and lover of well-written M/M romance books, Emerson loves her new career as an author of gay romance. It’s even more fulfilling for her when she can combine the two.
The journey to becoming an author started with an idea while reading on the sofa. That idea became an email that ultimately resulted in Emerson using those teacher skills to edit novels for three phenomenal MM romance authors. The third referral led to an opportunity to co-write a book series with one of the most genuine and kindest people she’s ever had the pleasure of knowing- Rheland Richmond. Emerson is the co-author of The Package Deal Series, which includes The Quarterback Keeper, Pass Interference,Unnecessary Roughness, Two-Point Conversion, Illegal Motion, Ineligible Receiver, and one more upcoming book in the series. She plans to release her first solo book in 2023.
Besides being a retired teacher and author, Emerson lives in North Carolina and has been married to the same man for 32 years. She is the mother of three beautiful adults, one of whom is proudly part of the LGBTQ Community and completely responsible for her addiction to MM Romance. Even though the kids no longer live at home, they filled the empty nest with an Australian Shepherd, three cats, and a cute bunny rabbit.
Emerson would love to hear from her readers. So if you get a chance… Get in touch.
Wedding planner, Cassie Winters can’t wait to find her own happily ever after, and when she meets wedding hater, Theo Abbot, she realizes she’s got her work cut out for her. Theo’s grumpy, set in his ways, and determined to never fall in love again, but the more time they spend together, the more Cassie begins to wonder if she can change Theo’s position on love. Fans of Claire Kingsley and Kaylee Ryan will adore WED LIKE WILDFIRE by Lauren Helms, a steamy, grumpy sunshine romance.
Wed Like Wildfire
Happily Ever After, Inc #1
by Lauren Helms
Blurb:
Once upon a time, there was a grumpy CEO who met a wedding planner who never stopped smiling…
Cassie You could say that I live and breathe weddings and love, and as a wedding planner, a happily ever after is the main event. So when I learn that Theo Abbot absolutely hates weddings, that should be my clue to run for the hills as fast as my sexy little black stilettos will take me.
But I digress.
I’m on the hunt for my own epic love story, one T-Swift herself could write a song about. Which means unavailable and seemingly uninterested CEOs are off limits. Even if the man oozes sex appeal and his grumpiness turns me to mush.
A little flirting never hurt anyone.
Theo Cassie Winters shines so bright I need a pair of Ray-bans to look directly at her. Problem is, once I’ve set my eyes on her, I can’t seem to look away. The woman is a walking, talking promotion for all things love and happiness.
Hand me an antacid.
Counting, on one hand, the amount of times I’ve failed in my life, leaves me knowing I won’t ever do “love” again. I’m set in my ways and not even this sexy little spitfire could sweet talk me out of my decision to never get married.
Yet it only took one drink to derail that plan.
But, things aren’t always as they seem and when real life gets in the way of this fairy tale, we’re both forced to take a hard look at what we truly want.
Are we both ready to wed or is this a wildfire that’s about to burn out?
I hear my sister and Mateo agree with her, and the woman continues.
“I mean, just look at the stage. It features more than fifty hand-painted scenic backdrops. It’s just absolutely remarkable.”
Despite the fact that I could get lost in this woman’s voice, I don’t appreciate that she barking up the wrong tree trying to sell this space to my sister.
I come to a stop behind the three of them, my attendance going unnoticed. I resist the urge to clap for her performance, but interrupt her words with my own instead.
“Well done, sounds like you could sell religion to the damn Pope.” Harsh, but I don’t like when people think they can take advantage of us just because we have money.
Both my sister and the woman startle. Mateo snorts. I glance at Nora and the glare I’m getting could cut ice, but I’ve survived the look before. I nod a hello at Mateo before sliding my gaze to the best damn saleswoman in the world.
Taking in the woman standing in front of me, no goddamn joke, my heart skips a fucking beat. I draw my hand out of my pocket and slowly rub my chest absentmindedly.
The woman is utterly exquisite. Her soft blond hair is braided in a way that is messy but perfectly styled and falls over her shoulder with strands of soft gold framing her face. A face that at first glance looks flawless. I’m unable to continue my perusal as I’m stopped in my tracks by two sparkling blue eyes staring back at me. Taking in all of her, I see that the smirk she wears tells me she’s not about to let me get away with what I’ve just said.
“No doubt you are correct, Mr. Abbot. However, I wouldn’t attempt something so outrageous.” Her eyes gleam. “I was just telling Nora and Mateo some very well-known facts about this beautiful cathedral.” She glances up and waves her hand around as if to encompass the whole space.
“Theo, this is Cassie Winters, our wedding planner. It’s nice of you to join us,” Nora bites out in a pleasantly terse tone. She walks up to me and kisses my cheek. As she pulls away, she whispers, “Be nice.”
I ignore her and focus on the wedding planner. Cassie.
“Well, I’m just confused as to why we are even here, Ms. Winters. Or is it Mrs.?” I ask.
She doesn’t miss a beat. “Ms. Thank you. And we are here because the couple getting married”—she gestures to Nora and Mateo—“wanted a tour.” Her tone straddles the line of condescending and courteous. And it’s sexy as fuck.
Nora punches me lightly in the side, typical sister shit. “Yes, I asked if we could check out the cathedral as well as some other places. We’ve already ruled some out due to availability, but this place has an opening twelve months from now,” she informs me as she walks back over to Mateo, lacing her fingers through his. His eyes flash as he looks down at her.
“I thought you didn’t want to wait a year,” I say, my eyes darting back at Cassie. She stands there, smiling with fucking stars in her eyes at Nora and Mateo.
“True, but places book up quickly, and I wasted too much time floundering before hiring Cassie,” Nora says.
I nod. Makes sense. I take a second to look around this place. I want to vomit, it’s so extra. We may have grown up with silver spoons in our mouths, but we didn’t grow up around such fancy-ass stuff such as weddings in the Scottish Rite Cathedral.
“Why the grumpy face?” Cassie’s beautiful voice breaks me out of my stupor.
“Oh, no, that’s his normal face,” Nora tells her.
“I don’t understand why you picked this place. It’s a church…”
“Are you not religious, Mr. Abbot?” Cassie interrupts.
“I’m not sure why that matters to you,” I snap.
Her eyes widen a tad at the venom in my tone. “You said it’s a church.”
“You didn’t let me finish, Ms. Winters. I was saying, it’s a church that was built in the ’20s and this place fits, like what? Twelve hundred people? Do you even know that many people, Nora?” I stuff my hands in my pockets out of frustration.
“No,” Nora offers shakily.
“Mr. Abbot, the theater space is only one of the locations available for a ceremony. This was our first stop. I wanted them to get the full tour,” Cassie says and I so badly want to ask her to call me Theo, but I don’t know if I’ll like the way she says my name more than the way she calls me Mr. Abbot.
I grunt, not having time for this argument. “Okay, then let’s look at a more accommodating space.”
“You know what, I think this place has lost its magic for me,” Nora grumbles. “Let’s check out that last place on my list. I know Theo has a busy schedule.”
“If you are sure, we can head over to INDUSTRY then,” Cassie says as she follows Nora and Mateo toward the exit.
I’m not into games. I’m not going to ask Nora if she’s sure or apologize for raining on her parade with this place. It’s not a good fit for her. She knows it. I know it. And this ridiculous wedding planner needs to learn it if she wants to keep my sister as a client.
Cassie walks by me, her shoulder nearly brushing mine, and my senses are immediately taken over by a soft smell of amber and vanilla.
“I’m so happy that you were able to join us today,” she says softly. I look down at her. She’s a few inches shorter, and the sparkle in her eyes is mischievous.
Clenching my jaw, I don’t reply as she walks on by, but the urge to wrap my hand around her arm and pull her back to me is strong.
I think what gets under my skin the most is that she has yet to drop the smile this whole time. Is it stuck on her face? Is this a Botox gone wrong? She doesn’t look like the type of woman to be obsessed with Botox, but what the fuck do I know?
I close my eyes for a minute to gain my wits.
One, two, three…
Copyright 2023 @Lauren Helms
*****
Review:
Ford may be grumpy (and sexy), but it’s because he took a lot on his shoulders at an early age. Add in a romance gone wrong and he’s got reasons to be the way he is. His sister’s bubbly, happy (and sexy) wedding planner has him feeling all sorts of feels, both good & bad.
I loved these two together. Cassie brings out the best in Theo, the kind of guy he could have been before life handed him a lot of responsibility and heartbreak. She makes him laugh and their connection is definitely unmistakable. But with different outlooks on life, can they find a compromise?
Was it a predictable story? Yes. Was it an enjoyable read? OMG yes! Fun, funny, and full of feelings, I found it hard to put it down. It’s light-hearted, but also not, and easily moves you to that HEA ending you crave in a romance.
*****
Author Info:
Lauren Helms is a romance author her nerdy and flirty contemporary words. Lauren has forever been an avid reader from the beginning. After starting a book review website, that catapulted her fully into the book world, she knew that something was missing. While working for a video game strategy guide publisher, she decided to mix what she knew best–video games and romance. She decided to take the plunge and write her first novel, Level Me Up. Several published novels later, Lauren created PR company, Indie Pen PR, to help other authors promote their books.
Lauren lives in Indianapolis, Indiana sharing her love of books and video games with her own Gamer Boy husband and three young kid nerds who will hopefully grow up to share the love of things that united Lauren and her husband on their own happily ever after.
A steamy, grumpy sunshine sports romance featuring a woman down on her luck, a star basketball player with a filthy mouth, and a connection neither of them can deny.
Game Changer
King of the Court #1
by Piper Lawson
Blurb:
After being dumped and losing my job the same week, the last thing my broken heart needs is a rebound.
I’m escaping across the country to help my perfect sister plan her dream wedding, and to prove to both of us everything is under control.
But a combination of tequila and turbulence on the flight there lead to word-vomiting all my troubles to the huge and handsome stranger in the first-class seat next to mine.
Only his whispered dirty diversions keep me sane until landing.
Despite the spark of attraction, we go our separate ways.
Or so I thought.
Turns out the tall, muscular, tattooed tower of a man from the plane is the star player on my future brother-in-law’s pro basketball team.
Clay is the last person I should gravitate toward. They’re called “players” for a reason.
Grumpy and cynical, he carries a weight on his shoulders I can’t possibly fathom.
He’s also the only one who knows my secrets and gets my heart racing.
The more we’re thrust together, the stronger the chemistry between us becomes.
Hooking up with the all-star athlete isn’t the way to get my life on track…but it could just be the game changer we’ve both been searching for.
Download today on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Google Play, and Kobo!
I was super intrigued by the blurb, so I was willing to try a New Adult romance – which is SO not my thing. Usually, they are full of drama all mixed up with inexperience and poor decisions. I’ve been steering clear of them for years and now I’m wondering if I judged them too harshly. Granted, there is ALL sorts of angst here and I really wanted Nova to walk away from Clay’s hot & cold routine at the beginning (girl deserves better than being jerked around) but she stuck it out and I’m glad I did too.
Nova has hit a rough patch and is using the excuse of helping her sister to lay low a little, waiting for things to settle. They used to be close but over the years have grown apart. Time together is going to be good for them…if Nova can survive the plane ride there. Luckily her grumpy, and super sexy, seat mate is the perfect distraction from her fear of flying.
Clay has somethings in his past that still haunt him but he’s not going to let them distract him from his goal of a championship. That also goes for the hottie who stole his seat on the plane and proceeded to have quite the freak out. Too bad fate has other plans.
I’ll be honest, I almost gave up on this one more than once. Before I even started it, really, once I found out it ended in a cliffhanger, which I NEVER do, but I’m glad that I stuck with it. The beginning was a little rough, and there were a few times where I was like WHY? to something one of the main characters did, but I like them. Nova is the perfect mix of sunshine and vulnerability and I’m very much looking forward to finding out more about Clay’s past. I’m not sure I can take two more books of drama without a HEA but if Lawson keeps delivering such interesting characters, I’m willing to give it a shot 🙂 (and I’m really hoping Nova hands Clay his @ss in the next book!)
*****
Author Info:
Piper Lawson is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of smart and steamy romance.
She writes women who follow their dreams, best friends who know your dirty secrets and love you anyway, and complex heroes you’ll fall hard for.
Piper lives in Canada with her tall and brilliant husband. She’s a sucker for dark eyes, dark coffee, and dark chocolate.
Fire took out my business, my apartment and almost my life a few weeks back, and now I’m living in my best friend’s house while I rebuild, and he travels the world. He found his perfect match and now It’s time I found mine.
After years on my own, I want a family, but I have zero hope in finding my match while I’m still completely crushing on the hottest builder in the world, and to make matters worse, he’s now my roommate.
I thought sharing a house with Carter would help me get over him. I’d see why he’s never had a boyfriend, or anyone worth bringing around town. I’d discover all of his faults up close and squash the perfect god-like image I’ve cemented in my mind all these years.
Problem is, no matter what annoying habits I jot down on my list, the more time I spend with him the more I’m convinced Carter is everything I will ever need. Now I just have to figure out a way to tell him.
Carter
With Michael traveling the world, it’s just Lucas and me in his house while we rebuild the café, bakery, and apartment. I’m happy for Michael. I really am, but seeing another friend get their happy beginning shines a light again on the fact that I might never get mine.
I’m sick of being everyone’s best friend, yet no one’s boyfriend. I want my happy beginning too. I want someone to pick me. To want me. To love me.
So I do what any single guy would do, I sign up for speed dating. Blind dates suck but I’m never going to find the one if I don’t start putting myself out there.
The problem is, the more time I spend living with Lucas the more I realize, I don’t want any of these random hookups. I want the sweetest guy I’ve ever met. The one who bakes me cookies to make me smile. So now I have to figure out a way to show him I can be an awesome boyfriend. I can be his happy beginning if he will just give me a chance out of the friend zone.
“Ohh, aren’t you delicious?” The guy wearing deep purple eyeliner preens as I take my seat at table G.
“Ahh, thanks.”
Theo taps the mic, gaining everyone’s attention. “All right, your night starts now. Have fun.”
The app chimes, and the guy across from me immediately starts talking.
“I’m Stuart. Thirty-seven, Capricorn, I’m a stylist and live in the city, but have visited this town a few times. It’s super sweet, I could totally see myself settling somewhere like here. I could open a salon. You obviously work out, so what else do you do besides pumping iron?” He props his head on his hands, tilting it to the side as he waits for my reply.
“I’m Carter. I’m a contractor.”
“Oh, so you’re good with your hands. I knew a big, buff guy like you would be.”
“Thanks. I, umm, live in town, but work all over depending on the job.” Lucas’s warm laugh sounds from somewhere on my left. I turn my head towards the sound, and like being pulled by a magnet, my gaze finds him. He’s sitting across from a man in a suit with slicked-back hair, flawlessly clean-shaven face, and impeccably manicured eyebrows. My jaw tightens.
Really? That guy?
I can’t see his face, but Lucas is smiling, and I hate that this man, whoever he is, is making Lucas smile that way. That’s my smile.
Stuart is talking again, and I’d be lying if I said I had any clue what he was saying. My gaze keeps being drawn back to Lucas.
*****
Review:
I really enjoyed Carter and Lucas’s story. The first part of the story is Carter realizing that maybe he has feelings for Lucas after all, while Lucas tries to get over his crush. The second part is them dancing around telling each other how they feel, then the ending is them figuring out their way to a HEA.
Carter and Lucas are both hard-working, stand-up guys, who share a good group of supportive, and entertaining, friends. They’ve known each other for quite a while, with Lucas trying to hide his crush and Carter being oblivious to his friend’s feelings & the possibility that Lucas might be more than just a friend. But once that seed is planted, it quickly takes hold.
Readers need to be ready to hang in there for the slow burn romance between these two because they seriously take a while to get where they’re going. But it’s an easy read, with enjoyable characters, a touch of humor, and eventually a decent amount of steam. It’s pretty low angst and other than a few moments of “guys, seriously” it was a pretty enjoyable journey.
(While not necessary, it does help to have read the first book in the series. I enjoyed that one too. There were a few moments where the characters did foolish things, just like here, but they were enjoyable, and I was rooting for them to figure things out too. The novella that kicked off the series might be a good idea too but I haven’t read it yet, though it’s on my list.)
*****
Author Info:
Becca Jackson is the author of mm romance stories that deliver heart, heat, and happily ever afters for some totally adorkable and fabulous guys.
From New York Times bestselling author Melissa Foster comes The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch, a small-town, big-family series of standalone romance novels featuring fiercely loyal, insanely sexy bikers who give horses—and people—a second chance. Buckle up for a wild ride in Hope Valley, Colorado, as these big-hearted badasses and their sassy sisters wrangle in their forever loves. No cliffhangers, no cheating, and always a happily ever after.
For the Love of Whiskey
The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch
by Melissa Foster
Releasing April 19, 2023
World Literary Press
Blurb:
Callahan “Cowboy” Whiskey is a natural-born protector, a Dark Knights biker, and a hell of a rancher. What happens when he falls for a woman who has no idea who she really is?
When Sullivan Tate escaped from a cult, leaving behind the only life she’d ever known, she thought she’d already endured the most difficult things she’d ever have to deal with. She knew she needed to figure out who she was, but she hadn’t expected to fall for overprotective and sexy-as-hell Callahan “Cowboy” Whiskey along the way. How can she give her heart to a man who has always known exactly who he is, when she’s only just begun figuring that out about herself?
Cowboy is just about perfect. I think it helps that his mother and so many others in his life are therapists. He’s the protector and would be there for anyone, but he’s drawn to Sully immediately and deeply. A whole lot caring, patient, and giving but still a little bit dirty and growly alpha, the way he treats her, helping her stand on her own feet and experience everything, is totally swoon worthy.
There is a disclaimer at the end of the book from the author about Sully’s plight. She recognizes that in reality this is not a fast process and that it would take a long time for someone to recover from her experiences. But this is a love story so there also needs to be a little bit of magic in falling in love 🙂 She makes Sully strong and unbroken by the things that she’s been through. She just needs somewhere (and someone) that makes her feel safe and supported so she can figure out who she is and how she wants to go forward.
As much as I loved Cowboy & Sully and their connection, I spent a bit of time early on asking myself if it was really that healthy but at some point I decided that it didn’t matter. There are a lot of times in a romance that you just have to let it be because it’s just a story. I think though that this says something about Foster’s characters. They, and their stories, are so moving and genuine that you can’t help comparing them to what would happen if they didn’t just exist in a book. And that’s the reason that I get excited just seeing her name on a new book – I know that I’m going to get something emotional and real, with all the heart (and a touch of heat) that I could ask for.
(All of Foster’s books technically can stand on their own but why would you want them to 🙂 )
*****
Author Info:
Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented–perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines.
In this lighthearted romance filled with small-town humor and high jinks, an unsuspecting real estate agent becomes the wildest dream come true for all the single moms—except the one he wants.
They’re coworkers, friends, and confidants, but Peter Marshal has always pined for a little something more with Noelle Walters. As a widow and a single mom, Noelle prefers to play it safe, and falling for Peter was never part of the plan.
Then again, neither of their plans accounted for the well-meaning but meddling actions of Peter’s sister, who offers him up as their town’s most eligible bachelor in the local moms’ Facebook group. He’s none the wiser about the source of this sudden surge in attention, but he only has eyes for Noelle. And from where she’s standing on the sidelines of Peter’s popularity, it’s getting harder to pretend that she doesn’t see what everyone else sees in her best friend.
With all eyes on them, will Peter and Noelle finally see beyond the hurdles to the happily ever after that’s been there all along?
*****
Review:
Talk of the Town is a slow burn and super sweet. Noelle didn’t have a conventional up-bringing and it’s caused her to be a little more awkward socially. She’s got a good heart, loves her son & MIL, and works hard. But she still has some left over trauma from her parents that makes it difficult to navigate friendships & potential romantic relationships.
Peter may be a little naive himself, especially reading women, but he does know that he’d like something more than friends with Noelle. He’s a little hesitant to do anything about it, though, for fear of losing the relationship that they do have so far. But, unbeknownst to him, his meddling sister may just give him the help he needs when her machinations to see Peter in a relationship also has Noelle looking at him in a new way.
The mom’s Facebook group provides the occasional bit of light-heartedness and some additional context to the goings-on of the town, but a lot of the time the women just came across as mean, both in the group and in person. It may be hard for some who have experienced similar bullying (which is one of the reasons it may hit hard is that it felt so real) but I do appreciate how Noelle’s growth is shown in her handling of some of these situations and that Peter is willing to stand up for Noelle with his beloved sister.
Bardsley captures both the complexity of family and the complications of small town life, giving us a slew of characters to root for … and sometimes against. She’s not going to get you to that HEA any time soon but the story will keep your attention so you don’t care how long it takes to get there.
Bonnie Brinks and her all-woman band, The Mermaids, are the pride of Moonlight Harbor. They’re the house band at The Drunken Sailor, and that’s just the right amount of fame for Bonnie. A lifetime ago, she went to Nashville to make it big, but she returned home with a broken heart and broken dreams. Now she’s got a comfortable life and a brilliant daughter, Avril, who plays for The Mermaids alongside Bonnie and Bonnie’s mother, Loretta.
Avril has big dreams of her own. Her life in Moonlight Harbor is good–she loves singing and playing guitar with The Mermaids, and she has the sweetest, most loyal boyfriend a girl could ask for–but it all feels so…small. She can’t help wondering if there’s something more out there for her. And she doesn’t understand why her mom won’t support her going to Nashville to find out.
Meanwhile, Bonnie threw in the towel on her love life long ago, but Loretta sure hasn’t. She’s determined to be swept off her feet, and she wants the same for her daughter. When the hunky new owner of The Drunken Sailor turns the tables on the band and Avril announces she’s leaving Moonlight Harbor, Bonnie’s comfortable life seems to be drifting away. Will these three generations of Mermaids find their happy endings on the Washington coast? Or will the change in the winds leave them all shipwrecked?
“Blooming with heartfelt charm and swoon-worthy moments…” Woman’s World Magazine
It was a pleasant ride to the beach. Once he was off I-5 he was on highways that took him through stands of evergreens and logging towns with small houses, many of them forty years old, many of which were being refurbished.
Then he hit Moonlight Harbor with its crazy stone pillars at the entrance, still standing from when the town was first developed in the sixties. The place was a mixture of funky old and upbeat new, the buildings from both eras catering to visitors with restaurants, moped rentals, shops and a fun plex that offered bumper cars and go-carts for entertainment. A family of deer grazed on the grass in the meridian between the two one-way streets running through the town.
Another ten minutes and he was pulling into the driveway of Lee’s beach digs, a three-bedroom rambler with rock for lawn encased in a white picket fence. Lee and his wife were ready for him with a proper Thanksgiving leftover meal of turkey sandwiches, dressing and gravy, and cranberry sauce. Seeing the way they looked at each other about gave him heartburn.
His ex had looked at him like that about a million years ago. Stupid, fool him. He was a walking morality tale, an example of what happened when a man wound up married to his job instead of his woman. If only she’d given him a fair chance to right that ship.
“How’s your sandwich?” Glinda asked.
“Great,” he said. “Thanks. And thanks for inviting me down.”
“Sometimes a man’s gotta get some new scenery,” said Lee.
After they ate Glinda made them clean up the kitchen and left to check on things at the pub for Lee and hang out with some girlfriends.
“She’s a great woman,” J.J. said.
“That she is,” agreed Lee. “They’re still out there, dude.”
J.J. gave a cynical chuckle. “Yeah, I’m holding my breath.”
“While you’re holding your breath let’s play some cribbage. Tomorrow I’ll take you out to eat.”
They settled down with whiskey and cards and it was a pleasant evening. It sure beat sitting around the condo wondering if he ought to check out an internet dating site.
Saturday found him out on the beach in boots and a thick jacket with his buddy, working a clam gun to capture the elusive razor clam. A weak sun was out and the sand was damp and muddy and the air was crisp. A perfect day. They weren’t the only ones who thought so. The beach was thick with people, all in search of the same delight.
“You should move down here,” Lee said, as he tossed a clam in their bucket. He wasn’t much taller than J.J. and was built like a tank. In their college days he’d mowed down his opponents on the football field just like one. He’d gotten his education thanks to a college scholarship. J.J. had waited tables and worked in restaurant kitchens. Glinda had already informed him he would be in charge of making the clam chowder for lunch.
“Yeah? So I can grow moss like you? It’s always wet.”
“Not in the summer.”
“Yeah, well let me know when you figure out how to make it summer all year long,” J.J. said.
“Oh, come on. You know you loved it when we went over to Westhaven and went fishing.”
“Just thinking about that halibut we caught makes my mouth water,” J.J. said.
“Fishing, clamming, kayaking on the canals, golfing – it’s the life.”
J.J. brushed the sand off his hands and studied his friend. “Why do I feel like I’m sitting in on a time share pitch?”
Lee shrugged and chuckled. “Just sayin’ it’s a good life down here.”
“For you. You got a great wife and your daughters live nearby.”
Lee sobered. “It sucks that things went sideways with Eloise.”
“It’s been three years. I’m over it.”
“Yeah? You sure?”
“Sure I’m sure. My life’s good. I like my freedom. Got no woman nagging me, no obligations.”
“That bad, huh?”
J.J. gave a rueful smile and shook his head. “Okay, so it’s not perfect.”
“Maybe you need a change.”
“Okay, what’s the hidden agenda?”
“No hidden agenda,” Lee said and suddenly got busy checking to see if they’d reached their limit of clams.
Yep, there was a hidden agenda.
Glinda proved it when, after lunch she said, “Aren’t you tired of city living yet, J.J.?”
He set down his glass of beer and looked from one to the other. “Spill, you two. What’s up?”
They exchanged guilty looks. “Well,” Lee said, “Just thought you might be interested in a new business opportunity.”
“Oh, no. You got sucked into a pyramid scheme,” J.J. said in horror.
Lee made a face. “No.”
“The pub’s failing. You need a silent partner. No problem.” It would be the least he could do. He’d helped his buddy get into this mess.
J.J. had come down to Moonlight Harbor ten years earlier when his pal had told him about the little beach town pub he wanted to buy, had looked over the books with Lee and the owner, then given it a thumbs up, although he’d been concerned about Lee getting into the restaurant business.
“It’s a tough business,” he’d cautioned. “When you buy a restaurant, it owns you.” He knew that from personal experience.
“I can make a go of it,” Lee had said. “We want out of the city and Glinda’s up for it.”
“Okay, then,” J.J. had said.
He’d shared his expertise with his friend and Lee had done okay. But they hadn’t talked much in the last couple of years. Between getting divorced and getting his feet back under him J.J. had been a little distracted. Obviously, Lee’s investment had gone south.
“The pub’s doing great,” Lee said.
Well, so much for that conclusion. “Then what’s up?”
“What’s up is that it’s time to sell the business. The girls are grown and one’s had the nerve to move out of state. Glinda wants to start traveling.”
“You want your life back.”
Lee chuckled. “Something like that. I was thinking maybe you might want yours back, too.”
So this was where they were going. J.J. held up a hand. “Oh, no. No more restaurants. Too much work.”
“Yeah, and you’re so busy.”
“I’ll admit I’m kind of at loose ends, but I don’t think I want to work that hard.”
“I’ve already done all the hard work.”
“Yeah, right.” When you owned a business, it owned you. And restaurants …
“Never mind,” said Lee. “Let’s go play some pool. You can check out the house band.”
“You got a house band? What are they, a bunch of grungy kids in their twenties?”
Lee smiled at that. “Not quite. It’s a chick band.”
“A chick band. Interesting. So, three grungy chicks in their twenties.”
“Nope. Mother, daughter and granddaughter. They had another but she’s off to Nashville to try and become a star. They’re still good though, especially the lead singer. That woman sings like an angel, sometimes like a little devil. And she is something fine to look at. They’ve really been packing in the crowds on the weekend.”
“That’s good.”
“The place is doing well,” said Lee. “I know you shouldn’t do business with friends, but since you were in the restaurant business and since you’re the man with the business degree, I thought I’d give you first crack at it.” He suddenly looked wistful. “I kind of hate to let the place go. It’s like losing a part of me.”
J.J. nodded. “I know how you feel. I hated to let go of my places. Did it all for nothing,” he said bitterly.
His words brought on an awkward silence. He should have kept his shit to himself. He shook off the downer moment. “Let’s shoot some pool.”
“Good idea,” said Lee. “And, J.J., I get you not wanting to get sucked into this business again. I’d have liked you to be the one who takes over The Drunken Sailor, but no worries. The right owner will show up.”
Maybe the right owner had showed up, J.J. thought as they drank beer and waited their turn at one of the pool tables. The place was packed. Lots of out of towners, but Lee said he had a ton of regulars who came in during the week as well. Line dancing lessons were offered on Sunday afternoons followed by line dancing. A lot of the old guys came in mid-week to play darts and Lee had recently started a Ladies night, with half-off on drinks on Tuesdays and pool lessons taught by some of the better players, including a guy named Seth Waters, who had been regular before he got married. According to Lee, he still came in to play pool on Sundays while his wife and her girlfriends line danced.
“You’ve done a great job of making this the place to be,” J.J. said as they moved to take their turn at a table that had opened up.
“I like to think so,” said Lee. “Thank God I got lots of good free advice from a pro when I first started.
“What are friends for?” J. J. responded. He selected a cue stick and chalked it up.
“Go ahead and break,” Lee said.
J.J. took aim at the cue ball, sending it clacking into the others. He sunk one of the striped ones and then proceeded to clean the table.
“Save some for me,” Lee protested.
“Oh, yeah, I can’t let you lose. It would hurt your delicate feelings,” J.J. taunted.
“And then I’d hurt your delicate nose,” Lee shot back.
J.J. did miss the next ball. He stood back and let Lee take his turn.
It was the end of the game for him because he caught sight of a woman with long, red hair, a face that would launch a thousand ships, and legs that wouldn’t quit walking into the place. She wore a short black leather jacket, hanging open to reveal a lowcut green top cover a very nice rack. Those fine legs were encased in tight jeans. She wore black boots that made him think of pirates and was carrying a guitar case. Holy Moly! Was that a member of the band Lee had told him about?
Lee caught him staring. “That’s Bonnie Brinks, one of The Mermaids.”
“I wouldn’t mind hooking her on my line.”
“Fat chance. She’s a smiling ice maiden. Been single for years.”
“Maybe she’s tired of being single,” J.J. mused.
“Don’t hold your breath. But hey, she sure dresses up the place.”
“That was probably about all she did. Lee had a tin ear. He’d probably hired the woman for her looks.
Behind her came a younger woman, tall like Bonnie but with darker coloring. Also a looker. And next to her walked a woman who’d never gotten the memo that she was a senior citizen, also wearing tight jeans and heels high enough to trip Tina Turner. She sported spiky white hair and the tips of the spikes were colored green. The mother. His mother sure didn’t look like that. This woman probably had every old geezer in the place ready to take her out. With all three women being so striking maybe nobody cared what they sounded like.
“Had enough pool?” asked Lee.
“I think I’ll go over to the bar and get another drink,” J.J. said.
He snagged the last seat at the bar, one near the end next to a scruffy old dude in faded jeans and a peacoat, ordered another beer, and watched as the women tuned up. They couldn’t sound as good as they looked.
“The band’s good,” the old guy said. “They sing good, too,” he said and chortled over his crack.
“You know them?” J.J. asked.
“Of course. Everybody knows everybody here,” the old guy informed him.
“Looks like this is a popular place,” J.J. observed.
“Best burgers in town. Plus they have a senior menu.”
Lee came up behind J.J., hovering like a salesman in a used car lot. “Hey there, Pete. I see you’ve met my pal J.J. This is Pete,” Lee said to J.J. “He’s one of our regulars. He won our last darts tournament.”
“Beat out all the young pups,” Pete bragged. “You play darts?” he asked J.J.
“Don’t take the bait,” said Lee. “He’ll just sucker you into a friendly wager and take your shirt.”
“Aw, there you go, spoilin’ my fun,” Pete complained.
A full house and steady patrons. It would be kind of cool to own this pub. A lot of work and time consuming, but it wasn’t like he had much going on in his life anyway other than some day trading, hitting the gym and reading. In the last year he’d bought enough books to stock a small library. He needed something more to do. Lately, he felt like he was drifting with no purpose, no adventure on the horizon. What kind of adventures could he have here in Moonlight Harbor?
At nine on the dot the hot redhead stepped up to the mike and said, “Hey everyone, let’s get this party started.” She looked back at the granny on the drums, who began to bang her drumsticks together, counting off the beat, then the young girl hit the bass and the redhead began to bend those guitar strings all to hell. People rushed to the dance floor as she started to sing. “Get off your chair and get out here and shake your booty. You gotta start this party, so get out there and do your duty.”
J.J.’s heart went into overdrive. This place was a goldmine and Bonnie Brinks was the gold. What a voice! The woman was a super star. He wondered what she was doing buried in the sand of a small beach town.
“So whaddya think? The place is a good investment, right?”
“I’d say so,” said J.J. “Looks like the band is bringing in a lot of customers.”
“We had a lot of customers even before the band,” Lee said. “People want to eat at a casual place with lots of atmosphere when they’re at the beach.”
“You definitely got the atmosphere,” J.J. said. The goofy carved pirate statues were an obvious hit. He’d seen several people taking pictures with them. The pool tables had been in constant use since they’d walked in and the beer was flowing. Lee did have a going concern. The band and dance floor were a bonus. And what a bonus it was.
The women finally went on break, the older one stopping at a table to say hello to some people. The younger one went to plop down next to a super -sized young buck at a table near the band stand where a glass of pop was already waiting. A boyfriend, of course. The guitar queen headed for the bar, stopping for a quick word here and there, deflecting a fat lounge lizard, nodding and smiling at something another patron said.
She came up to the end of the bar next to J. J. and Lee. “Great job as always, Bonnie,” Lee said.
“Thanks,” she said. Then to the bartender, “Got my Diet Coke, Madison?”
“On its way,” the woman said and got busy getting her drink.
“You’ve got a great band,” J. J. said to Bonnie.
“Thanks, we try,” she said. Her smile was stop sign. Not Interested so don’t even try.
What did he look like? Some middle-aged, desperate horn toad? He was just being friendly. There was no need to give him the ice treatment.
He decided to turn the charm up a notch. “I always wanted to meet a mermaid.”
“Now you have,” she told him, still with the stop sign smile. The bartender set down her glass and Bonnie thanked her, the ice melting from her smile. But it was back again for J.J. “Try the garlic fries here,” she said to him. “They’re great.” Then she left before he could get in another word.
Mermaids were not so easy to catch.
“Don’t put her on the welcoming committee,” J.J. muttered.
“Told ya,” said Lee.
Slick and charming and no ring on his finger, which, considering his age which she figured to be somewhere around hers, probably had to mean he’d ditched a wife somewhere along the way, Bonnie decided as she walked to the band table. With those blue eyes and that red hair and matching, neatly trimmed beard, he looked like some kind of troubadour from the Elizabethan era. Add broad shoulders and a well sculpted chest and he was a regular pheromone factory.
And that stupid line about catching a mermaid. Oh, yes, he was a charmer.
Who did that remind her of? Rance Jackson, of course.
Let’s get to know him, urged her sex-starved hormones.
Not happening, she informed them. This was the kind of man who broke hearts – trouble in Levis. There would be no getting to know him.
Put a Mr. Yuck sticker on him and stay far away.
*****
Review:
Mermaid Beach definitely falls more into the women’s fiction category than romance. Yes, the characters get their HEA, and it is a very satisfying one, but the story is really about them finding their way. The three generations that make up our story are all immensely talented musicians, but life seems to have other plans for them.
Loretta met the love of her life and settled down to raise a family. Widowed at an early age, she hasn’t given up on finding someone new to share her life with. Bonnie tried to make a go of it in Nashville, but betrayal sent her home, vowing to never trust another man again. Avril is ready to give Nashville a try, regardless of what her mother says, but can she leave everything from the life she’s made in Moonlight Harbor behind.
Loretta’s zest for life and willingness to find the positive in everything makes her my favorite, I think. She’s so spunky and so brave about putting herself out there. And the love and encouragement she shows her daughter & granddaughter at every turn is the best. Bonnie might be a bit harder for some to take as she’s not an easy woman and has definitely let her past bring her down but with a little faith and support, she will find her way. Avril has had that support from both her mother and grandmother, so she heads off on her adventures with a pretty solid head on her shoulders. It gives her the courage to reach for her dreams and the ability to recognize the right thing to do.
Following the lives of our Mermaids has us going at a bit slower pace. Things are pretty complicated for all of them, with lots of bumps and surprises along the way, but it’s a good journey. One of self-discovery, facing the past AND the future, and figuring out what would truly bring them happiness. It’s not easy to take chances and to trust in others, but with friends and family behind them these three just might figure out what they really want.
(This is my first in the Moonlight Harbor series and while it easily stands alone, I know there are a lot of people that I would know more about if I’d read the other stories. It didn’t impact anything, just gave me a feeling that there’s more going on here that I’m not aware of.)
*****
Author Info:
USA Today and Publishers Weekly best-selling author Sheila Roberts has written over fifty books under various names, ranging from romance to self-improvement. Over three million books have been sold to date. Her humor and heart have won her a legion of fans and her novels have been turned into movies for both the Lifetime and Hallmark channels. When she’s not out dancing with her husband or hanging out with her girlfriends, she can be found writing about those things near and dear to women’s hearts: family, friends and chocolate.
Romantic Reads and Such 