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Unlucky 13 #5
Exception
Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa…
When I fled my small town home to fly across the globe for a potential job on a remote island, I did it on a whim. And let’s just say, my parents were not happy. According to them, the journey of self-discovery is not nearly as important as tending the family farm.
I may not know a lot, but I do know that I needed space to breathe. To figure out who I am and what I want out of life. I desperately needed change.
So I traded in my work boots and flannels for flip-flops, golf carts, and fit men in teeny-tiny swim trunks.
I came here for adventure, but I never would have guessed that on a tropical island filled with creepy lizards, poisonous jellyfish, and one obscenely deranged monkey, it would be the surfer with the tight body and smart mouth that I really had to watch out for.
When I fled my small town home to fly across the globe for a potential job on a remote island, I did it on a whim. And let’s just say, my parents were not happy. According to them, the journey of self-discovery is not nearly as important as tending the family farm.
I may not know a lot, but I do know that I needed space to breathe. To figure out who I am and what I want out of life. I desperately needed change.
So I traded in my work boots and flannels for flip-flops, golf carts, and fit men in teeny-tiny swim trunks.
I came here for adventure, but I never would have guessed that on a tropical island filled with creepy lizards, poisonous jellyfish, and one obscenely deranged monkey, it would be the surfer with the tight body and smart mouth that I really had to watch out for.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2023
183 people are currently reading
1305 people want to read
About the author
Cora Rose
41 books2,600 followersCora Rose loves any kind of romance and consumes way too many books each year. She currently lives in the U.S. and spends her days daydreaming about the characters inside her head.
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
August 3, 2023
After having gotten some glimpses of Holden from the other Black Diamond Resort books I've read, I was really looking forward to his book and it didn’t disappoint!
Chase applied for a job at BDR to escape his home in small town South Dakota and expand his horizons. While getting shown around the place he runs into Holden who immediately takes an interest in him as they cross paths in the apartment building.
Oh fuck, he’s gorgeous, so goddamn pretty. I wanna taste him, just a little nibble.
Everyone warns Chase off Holden, but Chase instantly takes an interest in Holden's ass, which causes him some confusion since he says he's straight. However, Chase did move here to try new things. Most of which turn out to be new things with Holden. *wink wink*
I’ve lost my mind. The island has stolen all of my common sense. Or Holden has with his butt magic.
Chase and Holden can't quite seem to stop running into each other around the resort and after several casual hookups they both start to realize they are having some actual feelings towards one another.
I think about how damn good it felt to curl up next to him last night, to bury myself in the deepest parts of him, and I know that I would come back so damn fast. I’d be back in a heartbeat. He’s my exception. The only one.
It was nice to slowly learn more about Holden’s past and why he is the way he is. Chase was just such a strong support for Holden and so patient with him while he opened up. They truly make a great couple and they balance each other out really well.
It’s so different from what I’m used to, but then again, it always has been with him. The moment I laid eyes on him, I knew things would be different, and the second his skin touched mine, I felt something shift inside of me.
This book had so many hilarious little moments. I was laughing to myself several times. Add in all the hot sex between Holden and Chase and it was a super fun read.
Gonna eat cum for breakfast from now on. Maybe even as a mid-afternoon snack.
I wish that they had communicated their feelings a bit more sooner rather than later because they seemed like they just kept assuming the worst of the other's intentions, but I was glad that there wasn't some big miscommunication situation at the end of the book.
“You are my exception, Chase,” I whisper, and he nods. “You’re mine too.” And with that, he extends his hand and we walk into the house. A new chapter, a new beginning, just the two of us. The exceptions to our rules.
I loved that Chase's family was readily accepting of him and Holden with no drama. I'm looking forward to reading Callum and Jett's book after briefly seeing them in this one.
Check out my reviews for some of the other Unlucky 13 books:
#1 - Broken
#3 - Unfortunate
#7 - Consumed
#8 - Abysmal
#9 - Splintered
#10 - Scandal
#11 - Exiled
#12 - Reckless
#13 - Shattered
*** I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion. ***
Chase applied for a job at BDR to escape his home in small town South Dakota and expand his horizons. While getting shown around the place he runs into Holden who immediately takes an interest in him as they cross paths in the apartment building.
Oh fuck, he’s gorgeous, so goddamn pretty. I wanna taste him, just a little nibble.
Everyone warns Chase off Holden, but Chase instantly takes an interest in Holden's ass, which causes him some confusion since he says he's straight. However, Chase did move here to try new things. Most of which turn out to be new things with Holden. *wink wink*
I’ve lost my mind. The island has stolen all of my common sense. Or Holden has with his butt magic.
Chase and Holden can't quite seem to stop running into each other around the resort and after several casual hookups they both start to realize they are having some actual feelings towards one another.
I think about how damn good it felt to curl up next to him last night, to bury myself in the deepest parts of him, and I know that I would come back so damn fast. I’d be back in a heartbeat. He’s my exception. The only one.
It was nice to slowly learn more about Holden’s past and why he is the way he is. Chase was just such a strong support for Holden and so patient with him while he opened up. They truly make a great couple and they balance each other out really well.
It’s so different from what I’m used to, but then again, it always has been with him. The moment I laid eyes on him, I knew things would be different, and the second his skin touched mine, I felt something shift inside of me.
This book had so many hilarious little moments. I was laughing to myself several times. Add in all the hot sex between Holden and Chase and it was a super fun read.
Gonna eat cum for breakfast from now on. Maybe even as a mid-afternoon snack.
I wish that they had communicated their feelings a bit more sooner rather than later because they seemed like they just kept assuming the worst of the other's intentions, but I was glad that there wasn't some big miscommunication situation at the end of the book.
“You are my exception, Chase,” I whisper, and he nods. “You’re mine too.” And with that, he extends his hand and we walk into the house. A new chapter, a new beginning, just the two of us. The exceptions to our rules.
I loved that Chase's family was readily accepting of him and Holden with no drama. I'm looking forward to reading Callum and Jett's book after briefly seeing them in this one.
Check out my reviews for some of the other Unlucky 13 books:
#1 - Broken
#3 - Unfortunate
#7 - Consumed
#8 - Abysmal
#9 - Splintered
#10 - Scandal
#11 - Exiled
#12 - Reckless
#13 - Shattered
*** I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion. ***
July 28, 2023
***3.5 rating***
" And that's when I see it—a spot of bright red on the blue water, a stark contrast. It's that ass, just bobbing between the waves. Like an Apple."
After days of feeling rather gloomy and hardly picking up any book, Exception turned out to be a delightful surprise. Cora Rose skillfully weaved humor into the story, and I couldn't help but laugh and thoroughly enjoy my reading experience.
Anticipation for Holden's book had been building ever since the first installment in the series, Broken by Andi Jaxon. Throughout the series, Holden had appeared as the alluring resort bartender, leaving readers like me captivated by his air of mystery.
Exception finally unveils the enthralling tale of Holden and Chase. Chase, an all-American boy from South Dakota, escapes his suffocating life and begins a new job as a repairman at Black Diamond. His first encounter with Holden is nothing short of unforgettable, with Chase being instantly mesmerized by Holden's irresistible charm and other assets (🍑). This leads to a passionate hookup, marking Chase's first experience with a man. However, Chase grapples with internalized homophobia, fearing what others, especially his father, might think. Despite this, the magnetic pull between him and Holden is undeniable, and they find themselves irresistibly drawn to one another.
At first glance, Holden appears to be a typical f-boy, but as the story progresses, Chase discovers there's much more depth to him. While their physical connection is strong, they gradually develop genuine feelings for each other. Admittedly, it takes some time for both of them to acknowledge these emotions, leading to some comical attempts to make each other jealous.
The narrative is sprinkled with hilarious moments, particularly when Chase finds himself high and dealing with the antics of Bob the Monkey, who manages to steal all of his belongings. As their relationship unfolds, both Holden and Bob find themselves falling for Chase.
Despite the entertaining aspects of the book, I did feel that the romance between Holden and Chase progressed a bit too swiftly, leaving me yearning for a deeper emotional connection. Additionally, the story seemed to focus more on Chase's perspective than Holden's, which left me wanting to explore Holden's character further and add some angsty depth to the story. Nevertheless, it's evident that Cora Rose aimed to deliver a light, fun read, and in that aspect, she succeeded admirably.
If you've enjoyed Cora's previous works and are in the mood for a lighthearted, amusing romance, Exception will certainly hit the spot.
Expect:
- Dual Pov
- Opposites Attract
- Size difference
- Insta Lust/love
- Sexual awakenings
- First times
- Forced-proximity
- Internalized homophobia
- A monkey named Bob (he is the main character)
- Many hilarious moments
- Jealousy
- Holden's 🍑
- Sexy moments 😏
- 🌿⚗️
I wish I could have a visual of Holden's 🍑😈
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
" And that's when I see it—a spot of bright red on the blue water, a stark contrast. It's that ass, just bobbing between the waves. Like an Apple."
After days of feeling rather gloomy and hardly picking up any book, Exception turned out to be a delightful surprise. Cora Rose skillfully weaved humor into the story, and I couldn't help but laugh and thoroughly enjoy my reading experience.
Anticipation for Holden's book had been building ever since the first installment in the series, Broken by Andi Jaxon. Throughout the series, Holden had appeared as the alluring resort bartender, leaving readers like me captivated by his air of mystery.
Exception finally unveils the enthralling tale of Holden and Chase. Chase, an all-American boy from South Dakota, escapes his suffocating life and begins a new job as a repairman at Black Diamond. His first encounter with Holden is nothing short of unforgettable, with Chase being instantly mesmerized by Holden's irresistible charm and other assets (🍑). This leads to a passionate hookup, marking Chase's first experience with a man. However, Chase grapples with internalized homophobia, fearing what others, especially his father, might think. Despite this, the magnetic pull between him and Holden is undeniable, and they find themselves irresistibly drawn to one another.
At first glance, Holden appears to be a typical f-boy, but as the story progresses, Chase discovers there's much more depth to him. While their physical connection is strong, they gradually develop genuine feelings for each other. Admittedly, it takes some time for both of them to acknowledge these emotions, leading to some comical attempts to make each other jealous.
The narrative is sprinkled with hilarious moments, particularly when Chase finds himself high and dealing with the antics of Bob the Monkey, who manages to steal all of his belongings. As their relationship unfolds, both Holden and Bob find themselves falling for Chase.
Despite the entertaining aspects of the book, I did feel that the romance between Holden and Chase progressed a bit too swiftly, leaving me yearning for a deeper emotional connection. Additionally, the story seemed to focus more on Chase's perspective than Holden's, which left me wanting to explore Holden's character further and add some angsty depth to the story. Nevertheless, it's evident that Cora Rose aimed to deliver a light, fun read, and in that aspect, she succeeded admirably.
If you've enjoyed Cora's previous works and are in the mood for a lighthearted, amusing romance, Exception will certainly hit the spot.
Expect:
- Dual Pov
- Opposites Attract
- Size difference
- Insta Lust/love
- Sexual awakenings
- First times
- Forced-proximity
- Internalized homophobia
- A monkey named Bob (he is the main character)
- Many hilarious moments
- Jealousy
- Holden's 🍑
- Sexy moments 😏
- 🌿⚗️
I wish I could have a visual of Holden's 🍑😈
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
July 27, 2023
“I’m starting to think maybe my soul knew where you were and I just needed to find you”
Born and raised in South Dakota, Chase leaves everything behind to start a new job at the luxury resort Black Diamond. He felt that his life back home was suffocating and that he wouldn’t be able to truly find himself in a small town. He quickly meets carefree and handsome Holden, who has worked at the resort for years. He’s also left behind a life of hurt and neglect. Chase is enamoured by Holden, particularly his ass. At Black Diamond, both boys are forced to face aspects of themselves, Chase’s sexuality, and Holden his aversion to relationships.
Exception is the 5th book in the multi-author series Unlucky 13. The other entries I’ve read so far had a more angsty and heavier tone dealing with some tough subject matters, but Exception was much lighter and had all the Cora quirkiness and humour which I’ve come to love. I could not get over Chase’s wild inner monologues, the monkey and homemade lube made from weed.
Their relationship starts out purely physical, but they soon realize that they have a connection that can’t be stopped and only intensifies each time they come together. Their relationship moved fast, yet it didn’t feel like it was instant love to me. Insta lust for sure, especially on Chase’s end (his obsession with Holden’s ass was too funny).
I loved that Holden was able to let himself be open to relationships and love and that Chase was able to find himself at Black Diamond as well. It was sweet to see Chase’s family accepting him and welcoming Holden. He really needed to have and experience love, loyalty and family.
Overall I really enjoyed Exception, no surprise since I enjoy Cora’s stories so much.
Born and raised in South Dakota, Chase leaves everything behind to start a new job at the luxury resort Black Diamond. He felt that his life back home was suffocating and that he wouldn’t be able to truly find himself in a small town. He quickly meets carefree and handsome Holden, who has worked at the resort for years. He’s also left behind a life of hurt and neglect. Chase is enamoured by Holden, particularly his ass. At Black Diamond, both boys are forced to face aspects of themselves, Chase’s sexuality, and Holden his aversion to relationships.
Exception is the 5th book in the multi-author series Unlucky 13. The other entries I’ve read so far had a more angsty and heavier tone dealing with some tough subject matters, but Exception was much lighter and had all the Cora quirkiness and humour which I’ve come to love. I could not get over Chase’s wild inner monologues, the monkey and homemade lube made from weed.
Their relationship starts out purely physical, but they soon realize that they have a connection that can’t be stopped and only intensifies each time they come together. Their relationship moved fast, yet it didn’t feel like it was instant love to me. Insta lust for sure, especially on Chase’s end (his obsession with Holden’s ass was too funny).
For a moment, I visualize myself biting into those round, hard globes, sinking my teeth into his skin. It’s so jarring that I freeze, my entire body stuck in one position. I don’t bite other guys’ asses. I don’t bite asses, period. That’s not polite. Terrible manners.
I want to motorboat it—just stick my face between those cheeks and blow raspberries. Not that he’d let me. I tried it once and he just stared at me in confusion. Doesn’t mean I don’t wanna do it again. And again. I want to live in his ass.
I loved that Holden was able to let himself be open to relationships and love and that Chase was able to find himself at Black Diamond as well. It was sweet to see Chase’s family accepting him and welcoming Holden. He really needed to have and experience love, loyalty and family.
Overall I really enjoyed Exception, no surprise since I enjoy Cora’s stories so much.
August 23, 2023
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
Hilarious, ridiculous, witty and low-angst.
In typical Cora Rose fashion, Exception is a perfect blend of unrealness, improbable scenarios and a dash of feels - the tropical location of this series really makes this a great summer read.
The star of this book has to be Chase, the mega himbo, and his misadventures with Bob the monkey. Let’s not forget the whole flip flop moment, ‘cause I’m still over here chuckling to myself thinking about it.
High Chase has to be my new favorite thing.
Hayden and Chase were extremely cute together, but the characters as well as the plot do lack a bit of depth.
Still, extremely entertaining and very enjoyable.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Gay-awakening
- Vers MCs
- Himbo MC
- MC w/ heart condition
- Hurt/comfort
POV: 1st person, dual
•“You are my exception, Chase,” I whisper, and he nods. “You’re mine too.”•
Hilarious, ridiculous, witty and low-angst.
In typical Cora Rose fashion, Exception is a perfect blend of unrealness, improbable scenarios and a dash of feels - the tropical location of this series really makes this a great summer read.
“You sure know how to woo a guy.” “I am the woowiest.”
The star of this book has to be Chase, the mega himbo, and his misadventures with Bob the monkey. Let’s not forget the whole flip flop moment, ‘cause I’m still over here chuckling to myself thinking about it.
I’ve lost one of my flip-flops in the process and feel suddenly despondent. I need that flip-flop. It’s part of my identity now. Flip has now lost Flop, and they are sad. Twins separated at birth, and it’s all my fault.
High Chase has to be my new favorite thing.
Hayden and Chase were extremely cute together, but the characters as well as the plot do lack a bit of depth.
Still, extremely entertaining and very enjoyable.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Gay-awakening
- Vers MCs
- Himbo MC
- MC w/ heart condition
- Hurt/comfort
POV: 1st person, dual
June 29, 2023
I really loved Holden and Chase's story. I loved how they are both caught so off-guard by their unexpected connection, chemistry, and desire for one another. I enjoyed how both Chase and Holden dive head first into a physical relationship and are shocked and afraid at the sudden emergence of genuine feelings.
This story has a lightness to it that makes for the perfect summer read. Once again the characters shine with this author's low-angst and high-heat writing style. I enjoyed how different Chase and Holden's personalities are. Chase provides a loyal and unwavering sense of security that Holden has been missing all his life. Holden is a free spirit who refuses any emotional vulnerability, therefore his surprising attraction and willingness to open up to Chase creates a wonderful dynamic between the two.
Overall Exception is a fantastic unexpected summer romance where a genuine connection is created making Chase and Holden the perfect match.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
This story has a lightness to it that makes for the perfect summer read. Once again the characters shine with this author's low-angst and high-heat writing style. I enjoyed how different Chase and Holden's personalities are. Chase provides a loyal and unwavering sense of security that Holden has been missing all his life. Holden is a free spirit who refuses any emotional vulnerability, therefore his surprising attraction and willingness to open up to Chase creates a wonderful dynamic between the two.
Overall Exception is a fantastic unexpected summer romance where a genuine connection is created making Chase and Holden the perfect match.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
August 13, 2023
3.5 stars
- coworkers
- opposites attract
- first times
- sexual awakening
Oh my lord, I don't think I've laughed this much over a book in so long! Exception, while incredibly steamy, had me rolling pretty much non stop with these boys shenanigans and freaking Bob the monkey.
I will say that I wish Chase has dropped the whole 'I'm not gay' thing a bit sooner, because Holden deserved better. Speaking of, that man is an absolute peach and deserves the world.
Overall though, this was fun and fast paced, and everything I've come to expect from a Cora Rose novel!
- coworkers
- opposites attract
- first times
- sexual awakening
Oh my lord, I don't think I've laughed this much over a book in so long! Exception, while incredibly steamy, had me rolling pretty much non stop with these boys shenanigans and freaking Bob the monkey.
I will say that I wish Chase has dropped the whole 'I'm not gay' thing a bit sooner, because Holden deserved better. Speaking of, that man is an absolute peach and deserves the world.
Overall though, this was fun and fast paced, and everything I've come to expect from a Cora Rose novel!
July 20, 2023
**I DID NOT read this as an arc but this is a very honest review**
I would like to say that, again, I am not a bad review girlie. I don’t like it and typically I just move on but I’m sorry I just cannot. Let’s get into it.
I finished this story less than 12 hours ago and I felt so much disappointment. The writing and the story were incredibly mediocre.
I don’t really want to sit and bash this story but it just, I guess I just do not understand all of these glowing reviews. The only reason I gave this two stars is because I didn’t dnf it.
I was a fan of this author but their recent work just feels very much like they do not care what they put out for their readers. Also, heard through the booksta grapevine that they actually said this piece of writing was trash. AND THEY PUBLISHED IT ANYWAY? Have some respect for your readers and put out pieces that you’re proud of. Readers deserve that. Anyway. It’s a no. A hard no.
I would like to say that, again, I am not a bad review girlie. I don’t like it and typically I just move on but I’m sorry I just cannot. Let’s get into it.
I finished this story less than 12 hours ago and I felt so much disappointment. The writing and the story were incredibly mediocre.
I don’t really want to sit and bash this story but it just, I guess I just do not understand all of these glowing reviews. The only reason I gave this two stars is because I didn’t dnf it.
I was a fan of this author but their recent work just feels very much like they do not care what they put out for their readers. Also, heard through the booksta grapevine that they actually said this piece of writing was trash. AND THEY PUBLISHED IT ANYWAY? Have some respect for your readers and put out pieces that you’re proud of. Readers deserve that. Anyway. It’s a no. A hard no.
July 18, 2023
utterly ridiculous but damn so much fun. i actually laughed out loud several times.
i just wish this was longer. i really don’t get the length for this series. too long to be a novella but shorter than a regular book. it just feels like something’s missing.
btw if you love cora rose’s brand of craziness you’re going to like this.
i just wish this was longer. i really don’t get the length for this series. too long to be a novella but shorter than a regular book. it just feels like something’s missing.
btw if you love cora rose’s brand of craziness you’re going to like this.
July 5, 2024
I had so much fun reading this, story starts with lots of action and it pretty much stays like that throughout the whole plot. Not a boring moment, very entertaining, funny and cute. I kept laughing at the flip flops, Bob being a klepto and random Chase thoughts. Holden and Chase were perfect for each other, I would have liked to know more about Holdens background but still loved the story.
Chase’s family surprised me at the end, I’m very happy with how things ended.
Chase’s family surprised me at the end, I’m very happy with how things ended.
November 13, 2023
It was another perfect summer read! Fun, entertaining, steamy and a real treat!
This is the fifth book in the Unlucky 13 series, but can be read as a standalone.
The story begins with Chase, who has just landed on the island to come and work because he really needed a change of scenery as he was suffocating at home. He also needed time away to get to know himself better… It's not long before he meets Holden, the bartender who also works there, and immediately feels a strong attraction to him.
Chase was really endearing and just too funny. I've lost count of the number of times he's made me laugh out loud! 😅
I don't bite other guys' asses. I don't bite asses, period. That's not polite. Terrible manners. My grandmother would be horrified.
It was a little harder to understand why Holden was acting a certain way for part of the book, because even though we suspect he had a difficult past, we get his POV for the first time, a little later in the book… But when it happens I instantly liked him and got attached to his character and totally understood where he was coming from and why he was the way he was. 💜💜💜
"I don't know what it is about you, but I can't stay away. Do you know how weird that is for me? To want someone like this?
Chase was just perfect with Holden all along. He was so smitten and had eyes only for him. Always ready to do whatever it took to win Holden over against all odds. 😍
I peer at him, confused at how someone can be so pure. I've never experienced another human being like this. I didn't even know they existed.
I was really happy when Holden decided to wake up and give Chase a chance, despite all his fears. Because he really deserved all the love in the world and also it was about time for him to have someone as good as Chase by his side.
For once in my goddamn life, I wanna stay. Usually, I run from feelings because they scare the fuck out of me, but for some reason, Chase just makes me want to hibernate in his goodness. He's safe. I know he is.
I love them both very much! 🥰
And my soul leaves my body. I've never had anyone be as tender with me as he has. It's a new and scary feeling.
Oh and a special mention to Bob who is hilarious! This monkey is really something else! 🙊🤣
I loved reading their story, I laughed a lot, and I had a great time!
If you're looking for a low-angst book, filled with funny and sweet moments, don't hesitate to choose this one!
☑️ I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the fifth book in the Unlucky 13 series, but can be read as a standalone.
The story begins with Chase, who has just landed on the island to come and work because he really needed a change of scenery as he was suffocating at home. He also needed time away to get to know himself better… It's not long before he meets Holden, the bartender who also works there, and immediately feels a strong attraction to him.
Chase was really endearing and just too funny. I've lost count of the number of times he's made me laugh out loud! 😅
I don't bite other guys' asses. I don't bite asses, period. That's not polite. Terrible manners. My grandmother would be horrified.
It was a little harder to understand why Holden was acting a certain way for part of the book, because even though we suspect he had a difficult past, we get his POV for the first time, a little later in the book… But when it happens I instantly liked him and got attached to his character and totally understood where he was coming from and why he was the way he was. 💜💜💜
"I don't know what it is about you, but I can't stay away. Do you know how weird that is for me? To want someone like this?
Chase was just perfect with Holden all along. He was so smitten and had eyes only for him. Always ready to do whatever it took to win Holden over against all odds. 😍
I peer at him, confused at how someone can be so pure. I've never experienced another human being like this. I didn't even know they existed.
I was really happy when Holden decided to wake up and give Chase a chance, despite all his fears. Because he really deserved all the love in the world and also it was about time for him to have someone as good as Chase by his side.
For once in my goddamn life, I wanna stay. Usually, I run from feelings because they scare the fuck out of me, but for some reason, Chase just makes me want to hibernate in his goodness. He's safe. I know he is.
I love them both very much! 🥰
And my soul leaves my body. I've never had anyone be as tender with me as he has. It's a new and scary feeling.
Oh and a special mention to Bob who is hilarious! This monkey is really something else! 🙊🤣
I loved reading their story, I laughed a lot, and I had a great time!
If you're looking for a low-angst book, filled with funny and sweet moments, don't hesitate to choose this one!
☑️ I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2024
I feel like I have an entirely different rating system for this author than I do for others, things that would bug me in other books never bug me in a book by Cora Rose. I just love her over the top insanity. At times I did feel like it crossed the line from funny insane to annoying insane, but overall it was a fun book.
September 14, 2023
4.25 stars
Swoon /5 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Angst /5 🥺🥺
Steam /5 ♨️♨️♨️♨️
Plot /5 🧐🧐🧐🧐
LOLs /5 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭
I actually enjoyed this way more than I expected! I’ve been in the minority and not really enjoyed Cora Rose’s writing style before now, but this low-angst offering from the Unlucky 13 shared universe really worked for me. Chase is an adorable puppy-dog, innocent & kind, bewildered by the challenges to his shifting sexuality since arriving at Black Diamond resort & meeting Holden, a bartender who has a reputation for having someone new in his bed every night. Apart from the fact that they’re together in head-spinning speed & Chase seems blindsided by his awakening bisexuality, their connection is sweet & hot & there are so many hilarious bits of dialogue that I was often cracking up laughing out loud. This was so much fun, and I loved seeing them both fall for each other. I also loved seeing more of Jett & Callum from Shattered, and getting to know some of the other recognisable names from the staff.
Check out my reviews and MM content on Instagram, Threads, StoryGraph, Facebook & Bookbub, all under the same name!
Swoon /5 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Angst /5 🥺🥺
Steam /5 ♨️♨️♨️♨️
Plot /5 🧐🧐🧐🧐
LOLs /5 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭
I actually enjoyed this way more than I expected! I’ve been in the minority and not really enjoyed Cora Rose’s writing style before now, but this low-angst offering from the Unlucky 13 shared universe really worked for me. Chase is an adorable puppy-dog, innocent & kind, bewildered by the challenges to his shifting sexuality since arriving at Black Diamond resort & meeting Holden, a bartender who has a reputation for having someone new in his bed every night. Apart from the fact that they’re together in head-spinning speed & Chase seems blindsided by his awakening bisexuality, their connection is sweet & hot & there are so many hilarious bits of dialogue that I was often cracking up laughing out loud. This was so much fun, and I loved seeing them both fall for each other. I also loved seeing more of Jett & Callum from Shattered, and getting to know some of the other recognisable names from the staff.
Check out my reviews and MM content on Instagram, Threads, StoryGraph, Facebook & Bookbub, all under the same name!
July 29, 2023
"I’d be back in a heartbeat.
He’s my exception.
The only one."
Exception by Cora Rose is book 5 in the standalone, multi-author, MM, Unlucky 13 series, which is set around an all inclusive, private resort built exclusively for the troubled elite. This Chase and Holden's story.
As is usual with a Cora Rose read, and contrary to the preceding books in the series, this is a light, fluffy and ridiculously quirky read! No angst to be seen and suspend disbelief upon entering!
Tropes:
🌶️Co-workers
🌶️Bi-awakening
🌶️Opposites attract
🌶️Insta-lust
🌶️Size difference
🌶️HEA
3-3.5 light and quirky stars ⭐⭐⭐
He’s my exception.
The only one."
Exception by Cora Rose is book 5 in the standalone, multi-author, MM, Unlucky 13 series, which is set around an all inclusive, private resort built exclusively for the troubled elite. This Chase and Holden's story.
As is usual with a Cora Rose read, and contrary to the preceding books in the series, this is a light, fluffy and ridiculously quirky read! No angst to be seen and suspend disbelief upon entering!
Tropes:
🌶️Co-workers
🌶️Bi-awakening
🌶️Opposites attract
🌶️Insta-lust
🌶️Size difference
🌶️HEA
3-3.5 light and quirky stars ⭐⭐⭐
July 27, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ Holden’s behavior in the beginning was a little questionable but it was a light, totally off the wall silly read. I imagine Cora laughing out loud while writing this book.
If you need something like that then pick this one up.
”The monkey is trying to burgle while he gets high,”
If you need something like that then pick this one up.
”The monkey is trying to burgle while he gets high,”
September 4, 2023
Tropes: grumpy/sunshine, coworkers, gay awakening, crack!fic (humour), insta lust
Feels: 5/5
Steam*: 5/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: some OW/OM jealousy feelings (but no sex with others after they hook up), minor internalized homophobia / sexual repression, Holden's parents are unsupportive/homophobic, permanent disability
I've got to give this five stars. I just enjoyed it so much. I was cackling. I'm such a sucker for humor, hot smut, and tenderness rolled into one.
Chase is 22 and he thought he was straight. He felt like he needed to escape from his South Dakota farm life. He doesn't want that kind of life for himself. He gets a job at the Black Diamond Resort as a handyman. His first day at the resort, he is introduced to Holden and warned to stay away from him. But Chase takes one look at his ass and starts questioning his sexuality. Chase ends up having sex with him that first day. We're less than 20 pages into the book! Some people might say Chase was kind of pressured a bit / wasn't participating fully, because he really was like days and unable to stop himself when Holden made a pass and offered sex. It was an awkward start to their sex life that's for sure.
Holden is 26 and he's got a bit of a reputation at the resort for hooking up. Holden is a fan of casual. Holden is from a rich family that was homophobic. He left home as soon as he could. He's very happy at the resort, and he has Hang-Ups about going back to the US. Holden has a heart condition but it doesn't affect his quality of life it seems.
This book was a riot. It was filled with hot sex and so much humor. I was dying laughing at the characters internal monologues and Bob the monkey. It was just escapism and fun. The sexual tension, the possessiveness, the reluctant tenderness and feels that they felt were great.
Some may say that the book kind of went into some dangerous territory. There was some sensitive issues that were talked about pretty lightly, like Chase's internalized homophobia and sexual repression and things kind of coming off like one person was taking advantage a little. My alarm bells went off a little, and I was like, "author tread with caution!"
One thing that's slightly annoyed me was the number of references the title of the book "exception". There were too many references to it. And it was kind of confusing at the very end, because Chase comes out as gay and his family is like "oh finally we knew all along!", And I'm sitting there thinking wasn't the whole reason for the title that chase was veering towards straight on the Kinsey scale with him only being attracted to Holden as far as men go? There were some times when Chase had other hot guys around him, especially during nude night, and he didn't seem that interested. It was kind of weird.
But I'm happy to have gotten another Cora Rose book. I needed the light-hearted humour. Her style is so much fun for me.
Some notable moments:
"I’ve lost one of my flip-flops in the process and feel suddenly despondent. I need that flip-flop. It’s part of my identity now. Flip has now lost Flop, and they are sad.
"That ass on display. I want to motorboat it—just stick my face between those cheeks and blow raspberries. Not that he’d let me. I tried it once and he just stared at me in confusion."
"“Hi, South Dakota,” I say and then slap at his chest, trying to make this as impersonal as I can, but he catches on and grabs my hand, bringing it up to his lips for a soft kiss. And my soul leaves my body. I’ve never had anyone be as tender with me as he has. It’s a new and scary feeling. I don’t know if I like it."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink."
Feels: 5/5
Steam*: 5/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: some OW/OM jealousy feelings (but no sex with others after they hook up), minor internalized homophobia / sexual repression, Holden's parents are unsupportive/homophobic, permanent disability
I've got to give this five stars. I just enjoyed it so much. I was cackling. I'm such a sucker for humor, hot smut, and tenderness rolled into one.
Chase is 22 and he thought he was straight. He felt like he needed to escape from his South Dakota farm life. He doesn't want that kind of life for himself. He gets a job at the Black Diamond Resort as a handyman. His first day at the resort, he is introduced to Holden and warned to stay away from him. But Chase takes one look at his ass and starts questioning his sexuality. Chase ends up having sex with him that first day. We're less than 20 pages into the book! Some people might say Chase was kind of pressured a bit / wasn't participating fully, because he really was like days and unable to stop himself when Holden made a pass and offered sex. It was an awkward start to their sex life that's for sure.
Holden is 26 and he's got a bit of a reputation at the resort for hooking up. Holden is a fan of casual. Holden is from a rich family that was homophobic. He left home as soon as he could. He's very happy at the resort, and he has Hang-Ups about going back to the US. Holden has a heart condition but it doesn't affect his quality of life it seems.
This book was a riot. It was filled with hot sex and so much humor. I was dying laughing at the characters internal monologues and Bob the monkey. It was just escapism and fun. The sexual tension, the possessiveness, the reluctant tenderness and feels that they felt were great.
Some may say that the book kind of went into some dangerous territory. There was some sensitive issues that were talked about pretty lightly, like Chase's internalized homophobia and sexual repression and things kind of coming off like one person was taking advantage a little. My alarm bells went off a little, and I was like, "author tread with caution!"
One thing that's slightly annoyed me was the number of references the title of the book "exception". There were too many references to it. And it was kind of confusing at the very end, because Chase comes out as gay and his family is like "oh finally we knew all along!", And I'm sitting there thinking wasn't the whole reason for the title that chase was veering towards straight on the Kinsey scale with him only being attracted to Holden as far as men go? There were some times when Chase had other hot guys around him, especially during nude night, and he didn't seem that interested. It was kind of weird.
But I'm happy to have gotten another Cora Rose book. I needed the light-hearted humour. Her style is so much fun for me.
Some notable moments:
"I’ve lost one of my flip-flops in the process and feel suddenly despondent. I need that flip-flop. It’s part of my identity now. Flip has now lost Flop, and they are sad.
"That ass on display. I want to motorboat it—just stick my face between those cheeks and blow raspberries. Not that he’d let me. I tried it once and he just stared at me in confusion."
"“Hi, South Dakota,” I say and then slap at his chest, trying to make this as impersonal as I can, but he catches on and grabs my hand, bringing it up to his lips for a soft kiss. And my soul leaves my body. I’ve never had anyone be as tender with me as he has. It’s a new and scary feeling. I don’t know if I like it."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2023
Cora Rose knows how to write a fun story! Holden and Chase were amazing from start to finish. We’ve gotten to know Holden from a few other books in this series now and I was beyond excited to find out he got his own book in this amazing multi-author series. I’ve been able to read them all so far and as much as they can be read as standalones I recommend reading them all just because they are awesome!
This story started off with a bang (literally) and didn’t let up. I can’t even count the amount of times I laughed out loud and wanted to share the hilarious one-liners. This book was a fantastic mix of hilarity, sexiness and seriousness too! Watching these two open up to each other and discover new things was wonderful. They were frustrating at times (why won’t they just talk!!) but it was all worth it in the end.
I love when book titles have a big meaning to the book and this one was beautiful and the author worked it in the story so well. Whether you’re new to Cora Rose or have read everything she’s ever written like me this is a must-read if you’re looking for a fun, beach romance!
This story started off with a bang (literally) and didn’t let up. I can’t even count the amount of times I laughed out loud and wanted to share the hilarious one-liners. This book was a fantastic mix of hilarity, sexiness and seriousness too! Watching these two open up to each other and discover new things was wonderful. They were frustrating at times (why won’t they just talk!!) but it was all worth it in the end.
I love when book titles have a big meaning to the book and this one was beautiful and the author worked it in the story so well. Whether you’re new to Cora Rose or have read everything she’s ever written like me this is a must-read if you’re looking for a fun, beach romance!
September 25, 2023
3.5 while this book is set in a shared universe, it is every inch a Cora Rose piece.
over the top, quirky, laugh out loud funny and romantic when you less expect it to be.
it also successfully peaked my interest about other pairings in the series. can’t wait to see what’s up next for this author and this series
over the top, quirky, laugh out loud funny and romantic when you less expect it to be.
it also successfully peaked my interest about other pairings in the series. can’t wait to see what’s up next for this author and this series
July 14, 2023
“Friends? I’m not sure if that’s really the case. I just met him and his ass, and he seems…perhaps Devon was right. Holden seems a little dangerous, that butt luring me away from any and all common sense.”
5⭐️3🌶️
Holden the forever flirty bartender! I was immediately drawn to him in another Unlucky 13 book and to my great delight he not only got his own story but one of my favourite authors wrote it 🥰
A bit of summer fun and a sexual awakening lead to vulnerable moments and real feelings. Full of the humour and quirky inner dialogue one can expect from Cora Rose. Chase needed to feel wild and free, Holden needed stability - and they found that in each other. A seriously fun summer romance! I laughed, laughed some more, felt sad and frustrated, and then the big ending pulled it all together in the best way. I just adore these two together.
I received an advanced copy for review - all opinions are my own.
5⭐️3🌶️
Holden the forever flirty bartender! I was immediately drawn to him in another Unlucky 13 book and to my great delight he not only got his own story but one of my favourite authors wrote it 🥰
A bit of summer fun and a sexual awakening lead to vulnerable moments and real feelings. Full of the humour and quirky inner dialogue one can expect from Cora Rose. Chase needed to feel wild and free, Holden needed stability - and they found that in each other. A seriously fun summer romance! I laughed, laughed some more, felt sad and frustrated, and then the big ending pulled it all together in the best way. I just adore these two together.
I received an advanced copy for review - all opinions are my own.
July 28, 2023
This is a true Cora book, bloody hilarious!!
The monkey totally stole the show!!! I was in stitches pretty much throughout the whole book!
Chase left his family because he felt suffocated, he applied for a maintenance job and ended up on a rich island resort, he was so out of his comfort zone and when he meets the very sexy guy with the bubbie butt and red shorts his world changes!!
Holden don’t do feelings! He hooks up, a lot, he even uses his great skills on the new shy guy, but one taste of him and it opens up a can of worms he’s not ready to deal with!!
Chase certainly had his eyes opened in the resort! I did really want him to become better friends with bob!! The flip flops……I can not 😂😂😂
If you need a great funny holiday read this book is for you!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💚Sexual awakening
💚Size difference
💚First times
💚Crazy flip flop stealing monkey
💚Dub con
💚Opposites attract
💚Insta lust
The monkey totally stole the show!!! I was in stitches pretty much throughout the whole book!
Chase left his family because he felt suffocated, he applied for a maintenance job and ended up on a rich island resort, he was so out of his comfort zone and when he meets the very sexy guy with the bubbie butt and red shorts his world changes!!
Holden don’t do feelings! He hooks up, a lot, he even uses his great skills on the new shy guy, but one taste of him and it opens up a can of worms he’s not ready to deal with!!
Chase certainly had his eyes opened in the resort! I did really want him to become better friends with bob!! The flip flops……I can not 😂😂😂
If you need a great funny holiday read this book is for you!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💚Sexual awakening
💚Size difference
💚First times
💚Crazy flip flop stealing monkey
💚Dub con
💚Opposites attract
💚Insta lust
July 9, 2023
Don’t mind me. I’m just over here fangirling tf out of Holden and Chase. The swooniest of swoons, y’all! Chase is the most adorable man EVER. Holden was tough at first but good golly, he became the perfect match for my sweet Chase. The gentle giant and the f-boy surfer.
“ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ᴍᴇɴ ʟɪᴋᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀɴʏᴍᴏʀᴇ. ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴄᴇʀᴛᴀɪɴʟʏ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ꜱʜɪᴘ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱʟᴀɴᴅ.”
Tender! I was trying to think of a word to describe their relationship and tender is absolutely perfect! Holden gives Chase a sense of freedom and Chase gives Holden a sense of companionship. Two complete opposites that are PERFECT when they come together. It takes them a hot minute but the tension and lust is superb until they get on the same page. And once that happens, it’s ooey gooey, lovey doves, perfectness!
Gah! I could talk about these two forever. They have such a special bond. Vers in everything from between the sheets to conversations. Of course Cora brought her A-Game with the humor. I mean, heat, heart, and humor cannot be beat by this queen!
ɪ’ᴅ ʙᴇ ʙᴀᴄᴋ ɪɴ ᴀ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛʙᴇᴀᴛ.
ʜᴇ’ꜱ ᴍʏ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛɪᴏɴ.
ᴛʜᴇ ᴏɴʟʏ ᴏɴᴇ.
I’m happy. The moment I finished this book I was that…HAPPY. I love books and stories like this. Feel good sexiness that makes me cackle like a witch.
POV: 1st, Dual
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ANGST: Mild; a bit of miscommunication halfway through but no breakup
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙨 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮.
“ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ᴍᴇɴ ʟɪᴋᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀɴʏᴍᴏʀᴇ. ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴄᴇʀᴛᴀɪɴʟʏ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ꜱʜɪᴘ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱʟᴀɴᴅ.”
Tender! I was trying to think of a word to describe their relationship and tender is absolutely perfect! Holden gives Chase a sense of freedom and Chase gives Holden a sense of companionship. Two complete opposites that are PERFECT when they come together. It takes them a hot minute but the tension and lust is superb until they get on the same page. And once that happens, it’s ooey gooey, lovey doves, perfectness!
Gah! I could talk about these two forever. They have such a special bond. Vers in everything from between the sheets to conversations. Of course Cora brought her A-Game with the humor. I mean, heat, heart, and humor cannot be beat by this queen!
ɪ’ᴅ ʙᴇ ʙᴀᴄᴋ ɪɴ ᴀ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛʙᴇᴀᴛ.
ʜᴇ’ꜱ ᴍʏ ᴇxᴄᴇᴘᴛɪᴏɴ.
ᴛʜᴇ ᴏɴʟʏ ᴏɴᴇ.
I’m happy. The moment I finished this book I was that…HAPPY. I love books and stories like this. Feel good sexiness that makes me cackle like a witch.
POV: 1st, Dual
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ANGST: Mild; a bit of miscommunication halfway through but no breakup
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙨 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮.
August 4, 2023
Back to the Black Diamond Resort, my new fave place! This is book 5.
Can Cora Rose write a bad book? I'm not sure she's capable of it. They ALWAYS make me tear up a little bit and ALWAYS make me cackle.
This book is so good, I loved Holden and Chase so much, I need more! This has a HFN, hints of a HEA and I NEED THE HEA.
The first 40% of this book frustrated me SO MUCH. I wanted to crawl into the book and knock their heads together. This is real idiots to lovers, they are both completely blindsided by their attractive to eachother and the depth of their attraction to eachother.
Chase has no idea what's happening, he is a gentle country himbo and I love him. Holden is a lil snake in the best way. I just wanted to give him the biggest hug!
Also, Bob. I think Bob needs a redemption book, all being so mean about him. I will 100% read a Bob ND/CR collab.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Can Cora Rose write a bad book? I'm not sure she's capable of it. They ALWAYS make me tear up a little bit and ALWAYS make me cackle.
This book is so good, I loved Holden and Chase so much, I need more! This has a HFN, hints of a HEA and I NEED THE HEA.
The first 40% of this book frustrated me SO MUCH. I wanted to crawl into the book and knock their heads together. This is real idiots to lovers, they are both completely blindsided by their attractive to eachother and the depth of their attraction to eachother.
Chase has no idea what's happening, he is a gentle country himbo and I love him. Holden is a lil snake in the best way. I just wanted to give him the biggest hug!
Also, Bob. I think Bob needs a redemption book, all being so mean about him. I will 100% read a Bob ND/CR collab.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2023
3.5 stars
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Exception by Cora Rose is part of the multi author shared Black Diamond resort series. This one follows a small town farm boy who comes to the island to spread his wings and the resort bartender who only does no strings attached fun.
Overall, this was a fast , extremely steamy read. Chase and Holden are both enjoyable characters and they don't lack in any sexual chemistry. They have a lust at first sight situation and an immediate no string attached arrangement , at least on Holden's side. Chase is a sweetheart who feels big, and his heart is quickly won by Holden.
"Don't run. Let me prove it to you. You deserve it all. Everything you didn't know you wanted...you deserve it."
I wish that we had received Holden's point of view earlier than 50%. I also wish Chase didn't cling to his "I'm not gay" proclamations for so long. No wonder Holden thought he was just a fling, with the amount of times he said it after they hooked up. It's not often I say this, but the nonstop sex overshadowed the emotional connection between these two.
Exception by Cora Rose has top-notch steam, cannabis enjoyment , nude nights, jealousy, laughs, a very expressive mischievous monkey, and a happy ending.
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Exception by Cora Rose is part of the multi author shared Black Diamond resort series. This one follows a small town farm boy who comes to the island to spread his wings and the resort bartender who only does no strings attached fun.
Overall, this was a fast , extremely steamy read. Chase and Holden are both enjoyable characters and they don't lack in any sexual chemistry. They have a lust at first sight situation and an immediate no string attached arrangement , at least on Holden's side. Chase is a sweetheart who feels big, and his heart is quickly won by Holden.
"Don't run. Let me prove it to you. You deserve it all. Everything you didn't know you wanted...you deserve it."
I wish that we had received Holden's point of view earlier than 50%. I also wish Chase didn't cling to his "I'm not gay" proclamations for so long. No wonder Holden thought he was just a fling, with the amount of times he said it after they hooked up. It's not often I say this, but the nonstop sex overshadowed the emotional connection between these two.
Exception by Cora Rose has top-notch steam, cannabis enjoyment , nude nights, jealousy, laughs, a very expressive mischievous monkey, and a happy ending.
July 31, 2023
This was a light, fun read filled with Rose’s usual humor and insta-obsession, coupled with some very mild angst. This definitely leaned heavier on the humor than previous entries in this series, and I enjoyed it. Holden and Chase were a good fit, and while their connection began as purely physical, it developed into something sweet. I do wish we had a few more emotional moments outside of their physical relationship, but it was always clear how even their physical connection was special to them in a way they’d never had with anyone else. Overall, this was a nice summery rom-com, and if you’re able to suspend your disbelief and just have some fun, I definitely recommend it.
September 22, 2023
As usual with Cora Rose books, it's light and funny in her own weird way. It felt I read the book at 2x speed most times. Everything happens so fast and the book is on the short side.
However, it was funny. Holden is just one of a kind lol. Chase was a big bear with a golden heart. And of course, the events and story is borderline unrealistic but that's exactly what delivers the fun and humour in Cora's books.
There was almost no introduction, the MCs meet and physical attraction just happens at first sight, spice started right away in first pages and never stopped till the end. I would've liked a bit more development and interaction between them apart from just physical attraction. But it is different than the rest of the books in series, it seems. Lighter, fluffier and probably more ridiculous in the best way.
It was a nice change of pace.
However, it was funny. Holden is just one of a kind lol. Chase was a big bear with a golden heart. And of course, the events and story is borderline unrealistic but that's exactly what delivers the fun and humour in Cora's books.
There was almost no introduction, the MCs meet and physical attraction just happens at first sight, spice started right away in first pages and never stopped till the end. I would've liked a bit more development and interaction between them apart from just physical attraction. But it is different than the rest of the books in series, it seems. Lighter, fluffier and probably more ridiculous in the best way.
It was a nice change of pace.
July 7, 2023
Welcome back to Black Diams Resort and Spa, and oh boy, was I not quite ready for this one.
Cora has left the reservation and decided to go all out. No holds stop with humor and sexy times, and wow, was it a breath of fresh air in a very heavy combined universe.
So much fun!! If you are new to Cora, this one I found lighter than the rest of her reads, and that is not a bad thing it was awesome to see her write this style along with her usual heavier, beautiful words.
Cora has left the reservation and decided to go all out. No holds stop with humor and sexy times, and wow, was it a breath of fresh air in a very heavy combined universe.
So much fun!! If you are new to Cora, this one I found lighter than the rest of her reads, and that is not a bad thing it was awesome to see her write this style along with her usual heavier, beautiful words.
June 28, 2023
I expected this book to be good. And steamy. And swoony. But I did not expect so many lines to make me chuckle and laugh - mostly it was things that Chase was thinking! I was cracking up so many times. For example:
“I don’t bite other guys’ assess. I don’t bite asses period. That’s not polite. Terrible manners. “
“Well, Dad, I had anal with a dude, twice, and I liked it. But sure, it’s the flip flops that make me gay.”
Chase is wonderfully kind and sweet, arriving on the island to work at the Black Diamond resort as a handyman from a farm in South Dakota. He needs to find himself - and find himself he does!
Holden already works on the island as a bartender and has been there for about 6 years. He is light and breezy in the surface - friendly and flirty with all, but never giving up any of his secrets. Something about chase speaks to him and all of a sudden, he wants to spill.
A super hot and steamy book with some sweetness particularly from Chase to even it out. This book was a great addition to the series - I’m really enjoying the variety of these books and I recommend this one!
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“I don’t bite other guys’ assess. I don’t bite asses period. That’s not polite. Terrible manners. “
“Well, Dad, I had anal with a dude, twice, and I liked it. But sure, it’s the flip flops that make me gay.”
Chase is wonderfully kind and sweet, arriving on the island to work at the Black Diamond resort as a handyman from a farm in South Dakota. He needs to find himself - and find himself he does!
Holden already works on the island as a bartender and has been there for about 6 years. He is light and breezy in the surface - friendly and flirty with all, but never giving up any of his secrets. Something about chase speaks to him and all of a sudden, he wants to spill.
A super hot and steamy book with some sweetness particularly from Chase to even it out. This book was a great addition to the series - I’m really enjoying the variety of these books and I recommend this one!
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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January 30, 2025DNFED @26%
Listen Y’all I Thought The First Two Chapters It Was Gonna Be Really Good And Really Cute, But By Chapter 5, It Started To Be Not My Forte At All, It Started To Get REALLY Cringe Fast. So No For Me Unfortunately
Listen Y’all I Thought The First Two Chapters It Was Gonna Be Really Good And Really Cute, But By Chapter 5, It Started To Be Not My Forte At All, It Started To Get REALLY Cringe Fast. So No For Me Unfortunately
August 15, 2023
-2
Unfortunately I didn't like it. Bob, the monkey was the best part of this book.
Unfortunately I didn't like it. Bob, the monkey was the best part of this book.
June 28, 2023
We’ve been teased with Holden throughout this series so I was very pleased when I realised that this was his book and that it was in Cora Rose’s hands. The glimpses we’ve seen of Holden to date showed him to be caring, fun, impulsive and kind so I was interested to see who his match would be.
I wasn’t expecting Chase – I don’t think anyone could expect Chase – but I thought he was sweet, a little bumbling and quite possibly one of the most innocent people to turn up on the island. Their relationship was swift, passionate and life-changing for both of them. Holden has been keeping part of himself aloof from other people, but somehow Chase gets beneath all of his barriers and armour and shows Holden what it is like to be/feel safe.
And Holden allows Chase to fly – to explore all of the unspoken things inside himself, which is the whole reason he came to the island.
Why no five score? I was seriously not a fan of Holden and Chase’s first solo interaction. I understand what was being conveyed but for me, it missed the mark. It felt far too rushed and confusing for one party – I think I needed an enthusiastic yes rather than what happened. It was in no way non-consensual but I just felt that things were rushed a little too much in the name of showing overwhelming passion.
This was a good addition to the Black Diamond series and I look forward to reading more.
I received an ARC from Indie Author Creative.
I wasn’t expecting Chase – I don’t think anyone could expect Chase – but I thought he was sweet, a little bumbling and quite possibly one of the most innocent people to turn up on the island. Their relationship was swift, passionate and life-changing for both of them. Holden has been keeping part of himself aloof from other people, but somehow Chase gets beneath all of his barriers and armour and shows Holden what it is like to be/feel safe.
And Holden allows Chase to fly – to explore all of the unspoken things inside himself, which is the whole reason he came to the island.
Why no five score? I was seriously not a fan of Holden and Chase’s first solo interaction. I understand what was being conveyed but for me, it missed the mark. It felt far too rushed and confusing for one party – I think I needed an enthusiastic yes rather than what happened. It was in no way non-consensual but I just felt that things were rushed a little too much in the name of showing overwhelming passion.
This was a good addition to the Black Diamond series and I look forward to reading more.
I received an ARC from Indie Author Creative.
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