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Naked Coffee Guy
He ruined my life. Now he’s ruining me for any other man.
I met Mac the night I lost my apartment. What felt like the worst night of my life turned into one of those insta-love romance stories I hate, and had me reconsidering my stance against relationships. But then I found out he was the agent who sold my home to a demolition company. That, and the fancy watch on his wrist proved we're from different worlds. So I did the logical thing.
I disappeared.
Or so I thought. My new home has a closet-sized room, my coworker's clutter, and a front-row view of Mac's early morning strolls. Barefoot. Shirtless. Carrying just a cup of coffee while he wraps the whole neighborhood around his finger.
I'm trying my best to avoid Mac at all costs, but the man is persuasive. Very persuasive. And when he suggested a casual fling, I couldn't help but agree.
But this feels nothing like casual, and I know I'm the one who's about to get burned.
Naked Coffee Guy is Maren and Mac's story, a steamy dual POV enemies to lovers romance with sizzling scenes and a fully-developed love story. This is the second book in the Sunset Bay series. All novels in the Sunset Bay series are complete standalones with HEAs and no cliffhangers, and take place in the same small coastal town.
I met Mac the night I lost my apartment. What felt like the worst night of my life turned into one of those insta-love romance stories I hate, and had me reconsidering my stance against relationships. But then I found out he was the agent who sold my home to a demolition company. That, and the fancy watch on his wrist proved we're from different worlds. So I did the logical thing.
I disappeared.
Or so I thought. My new home has a closet-sized room, my coworker's clutter, and a front-row view of Mac's early morning strolls. Barefoot. Shirtless. Carrying just a cup of coffee while he wraps the whole neighborhood around his finger.
I'm trying my best to avoid Mac at all costs, but the man is persuasive. Very persuasive. And when he suggested a casual fling, I couldn't help but agree.
But this feels nothing like casual, and I know I'm the one who's about to get burned.
Naked Coffee Guy is Maren and Mac's story, a steamy dual POV enemies to lovers romance with sizzling scenes and a fully-developed love story. This is the second book in the Sunset Bay series. All novels in the Sunset Bay series are complete standalones with HEAs and no cliffhangers, and take place in the same small coastal town.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2023
106 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Crissi Langwell
24 books177 followersCrissi Langwell is a multi-genre author whose work spans romance, women’s fiction, and speculative storytelling, all centered on deeply human characters and heartfelt emotional journeys. From her award-winning Sunset Bay series to her newest small-town Lahoma Springs romances, her novels blend heartache, hope, and humor into stories that feel both intimate and real.
A longtime advocate for creative community, Crissi serves as president of Redwood Writers, where she helps authors find connection, courage, and their own storytelling voice. Off the page, she juggles a full, rewarding life as a writer, caregiver, and communications director, often pulling inspiration from everyday moments and relatable struggles. She is also creator of Love Letters to Writers, a Substack community for those who are juggling inspiration and struggle with their writing life.
She makes her home in Northern California with her writerly husband, their Maine Coon cat Cleo, and a chair of laundry that really needs to get its act together.
A longtime advocate for creative community, Crissi serves as president of Redwood Writers, where she helps authors find connection, courage, and their own storytelling voice. Off the page, she juggles a full, rewarding life as a writer, caregiver, and communications director, often pulling inspiration from everyday moments and relatable struggles. She is also creator of Love Letters to Writers, a Substack community for those who are juggling inspiration and struggle with their writing life.
She makes her home in Northern California with her writerly husband, their Maine Coon cat Cleo, and a chair of laundry that really needs to get its act together.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 20, 2023
This was such a good story! I loved the chemistry between Mac and Maren. I would have liked to see more of the relationship between them. There was a lot to their own personal stories. That being said, it was beautiful written and I was completely invested in the growth of them as individuals.
💛Quotes
-I’d rather leave them wanting more than be left behind with a broken heart.
-Mac. Such a simple name for someone who’s suddenly bigger than the sky.
-He shrugs. "Maybe. But the Universe has a funny way of stepping in when we feel our weakest."
☕️Enemies to Lovers
☕️Damaged MC’s
☕️Different Worlds
☕️Small Town
☕️He Falls First
October 20, 2023
I really enjoyed Naked Coffee Guy! The story was an emotional ride for me as Maren and Mac navigate some heavier things in their lives. Some of the conflicts between the MCs felt a little predictable and repetitive to ne, but there were definitely some unexpected plot twists that made the book hard to put down!
One thing that I thought was done very well was getting insight into the backstory and some past trauma for both main characters individually that they work through. Seeing them conquer their pasts and move forward was definitely very rewarding.
I am so grateful to Crissi Langwell and The Author Agency for an advanced copy of the book to read and review! Crissi was a new author for me, and I absolutely love her writing style and will be reading more of her backlist!
One thing that I thought was done very well was getting insight into the backstory and some past trauma for both main characters individually that they work through. Seeing them conquer their pasts and move forward was definitely very rewarding.
I am so grateful to Crissi Langwell and The Author Agency for an advanced copy of the book to read and review! Crissi was a new author for me, and I absolutely love her writing style and will be reading more of her backlist!
October 19, 2023
Naked Coffee Guy is the second book in the Sunset Bay series by Crissi Langwell. It's a small-town, enemies-to-lovers romance, and it's the first book I've ever read by this author. I really wasn't sure what to expect, but I was so pleasantly surprised! I loved her writing style and storytelling, and after some of the other books I've read recently, it was such a nice change of pace because, although there were some serious issues, it felt like a light read, and it was really good. Mac and Maren were so good together and the storyline was so flawless, it makes me want to gobble up all of this author's other books. This one is highly recommended with more than five stars!
January 19, 2024
This is a great story!! You instantly connect with the characters Mac and Maren and from there you are swept into their world! One of those books you are sad to finish! Highly recommend!
November 14, 2023
Sweet and Spicy
I can’t say enough about this book. I absolutely loved this story. The emotion, the heart, the believability of this story was top tier. I love a spicy book that has a really great story, not just mindless sex. *that car scene though*
I absolutely loved Maren. She’s perfectly imperfect. What I love the most is that she has a real, tangible story. She’s a badass with heart, she vulnerable, she’s relatable, and she’s human. Like, I just know Maren would be my bestie IRL (sorry, Claire!).
Then there’s Mac. *Swoon* not only is he sexy as hell, but he’s sweet and genuine and just good. The amount of times I got weepy reading his chapters, especially when it came to his upbringing.
Y’all, read this book. Just trust me.
I can’t say enough about this book. I absolutely loved this story. The emotion, the heart, the believability of this story was top tier. I love a spicy book that has a really great story, not just mindless sex. *that car scene though*
I absolutely loved Maren. She’s perfectly imperfect. What I love the most is that she has a real, tangible story. She’s a badass with heart, she vulnerable, she’s relatable, and she’s human. Like, I just know Maren would be my bestie IRL (sorry, Claire!).
Then there’s Mac. *Swoon* not only is he sexy as hell, but he’s sweet and genuine and just good. The amount of times I got weepy reading his chapters, especially when it came to his upbringing.
Y’all, read this book. Just trust me.
October 31, 2023
The title and cover had me hooked. There was a story line too. Several story lines actually, but I felt that as a result none of it felt as emotionally developed as I would have liked. I did sense the attraction with Maren and Mac. But I think I had a harder time of buying the lust to love arc. Maren was so hot and cold with Mac, and I still don’t get why he was so gone for her. And at the end when Mac was “gimme your safe word” and with the belt - I was surprised. I know it was established he liked control - but that seemed out of left field. Impact play had not been raised before in the book or any of the earlier sex scene descriptions. It stood out, but not in a good way.
October 21, 2023
Amazon
Maren's at her lowest point when she meets a sweet, gorgeous stranger named Mac. Too bad she falls in love with the man who turns out be her enemy. Her hot, naked chest strolling around enemy.
Mac's worked hard to overcome his past, to make amends for the things he's done, and to make amends for the things the only father he's ever known has done. But he's not sure he can ever redeem himself for what's been done to the spitfire he's fallen head over heels for. He can't tell her or he'll lose her for sure. And he knows he can't do without her in his life.
Two damaged souls with horrible pasts, on paper Maren and Mac don't make a great couple, but they're actually perfect for each other, even if they weren't technically one for most of the story. Due to Maren's past, she's untrusting, and fears relying on and trusting anyone but herself. So when this savior comes along, she definitely doesn't want to trust him, doesn't want anything other than a casual thing. He's awfully persuasive though, and no way she can resist for long, thankfully. Maren's the kind of heroine I love most - relatable and human with a big heart. And Mac, oh darling, sweet, equally damaged Mac, he's the kind of tortured hero I always just want to give a big hug to. I love this duo and can't wait to read more about Sunset Bay now.
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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February 8, 2024
Not shaming women who fuck around, but you cross the line from fun, flirty sex kitten to SLUT when you fuck someone for favors. I was IMMEDIATELY turned off by the h.
Read
May 27, 2024DNF
May 16, 2025
It started with some promise. (Although I had to work to get past the self destructive sleepovers to keep the rent down.) A strong FMC, an interesting MMC, and a plot just ripe for a tale of hope, love, and redemption.
At the halfway point of this read, everything pretty much tanked.
Yes, the $ex was kinda hot, what there was of it. The leads were interesting, and the secondary characters had some depth. But the storyline was already projectile vomiting all over the place. Was the MMC a morally gray character? Or was he a bad guy trying to be a good guy? Was the MMC trying to protect his old dying mentor or expose him for his slumlord ways? Did the FMC capitulate into a doormat just for $ex? Or was she truly on her road to musical success with some sidetrips? Did the FMC want a relationship, or was she too busy trying to hold onto anger and secrets? Who really knows? Because these two characters bounced all over the place, jumping from one big angsty scene after another, full of miscommunication tropes galore. I get the desire to build some tension into the story, but this thing sprawled out like an oil spill, with no payout in the end. Unless you count the ridiculous return of the FMC's family, expressing their sorrow that they didn't see she was truly sober? The result was sappy and unbelievable.
At the end of this, my conclusion is that, in fact, this is a YA story masked as adult contemporary romance. Because these two leads were not adults. They were wearing the trappings of adulthood, but behaving like a couple of high schoolers, hoping that graduation would answer all their prayers. Some angst in a story is good. But a continual stream of it is childish and makes for a crappy read.
And what was with the Fifty Shades action tossed in like a fridge leftover that must be eaten before it goes bad? The $ex started out a little spicy but turned into a bad Craigslist meet with some awkward dominance play. It all felt out of context, or like an editor suggested it at the last minute.
I put this story down half a dozen times because of all the jarring character/behavior shifts from the leads. I only finished because I have a mental problem, apparently.
I sort of liked the first book in this series, but this one killed my desire to keep reading.
At the halfway point of this read, everything pretty much tanked.
Yes, the $ex was kinda hot, what there was of it. The leads were interesting, and the secondary characters had some depth. But the storyline was already projectile vomiting all over the place. Was the MMC a morally gray character? Or was he a bad guy trying to be a good guy? Was the MMC trying to protect his old dying mentor or expose him for his slumlord ways? Did the FMC capitulate into a doormat just for $ex? Or was she truly on her road to musical success with some sidetrips? Did the FMC want a relationship, or was she too busy trying to hold onto anger and secrets? Who really knows? Because these two characters bounced all over the place, jumping from one big angsty scene after another, full of miscommunication tropes galore. I get the desire to build some tension into the story, but this thing sprawled out like an oil spill, with no payout in the end. Unless you count the ridiculous return of the FMC's family, expressing their sorrow that they didn't see she was truly sober? The result was sappy and unbelievable.
At the end of this, my conclusion is that, in fact, this is a YA story masked as adult contemporary romance. Because these two leads were not adults. They were wearing the trappings of adulthood, but behaving like a couple of high schoolers, hoping that graduation would answer all their prayers. Some angst in a story is good. But a continual stream of it is childish and makes for a crappy read.
And what was with the Fifty Shades action tossed in like a fridge leftover that must be eaten before it goes bad? The $ex started out a little spicy but turned into a bad Craigslist meet with some awkward dominance play. It all felt out of context, or like an editor suggested it at the last minute.
I put this story down half a dozen times because of all the jarring character/behavior shifts from the leads. I only finished because I have a mental problem, apparently.
I sort of liked the first book in this series, but this one killed my desire to keep reading.
October 10, 2023
Mac is a young boy who ran away from the foster care system and he was "adopted" by a rich man who helps him develop in his career and now his "father" is sick and he demolishes his old buildings as a real estate mogul. He runs into the girl he's liked for ages on a roof.
Maren building is knocked down and she gets let known when she is SLEEPING WITH THE BUILDING MANAGER, the only reason she was doing that because she thought that he controlled the rent but all that went out the window. After her troubled childhood she almost relapses into drinking at this rooftop bar after all the horrible things that happened. She bumps into the hottest guy she's ever seen then overhears that he knocked down her building! So she leaves.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn:🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: N/A
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range Of Emotions:🔥💗🌶️🥰😡🥵❤️🔥😢
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫 {DUAL}
🗂️ Genre: Romance
✨ Tropes: Small Town, Enemies to Lovers, He Falls First, Rich vs. Poor, Damaged MCs, Hurt/Comfort, Consent Steam
💋 Kinks: Control
⚠️ Warning: This is spicyyyyy and will at some points leave you very pissed off at certain characters
📣 Type: Naked Coffee Guy is book 2 of the Sunset Bay Series, but can be read as a standalone
YUMMMMMMMMMM!!!! This is an amazing book. They re-meet on a rooftop bar and he knows exactly who she is but refuses to tell her because he knocked down her building and gave the people 30 days to relocate. She almost drinks again then this man knocks her drink on her. Th spark between then is crazy. he gets her to take her shoes off and put her feet closer to the earth. She later finds out that he is this man known as "NAKED COFFEE GUY" who walks around her co-worker and her new roommates street in just shorts with a cup of coffee and his clearly massssssiveee 🍆. he has the whole neighbourhood watering at the mouth. It's wholeheartedly a difficult situation but they just seem drawn to each other. It's an amazing book and you must read it. Do I need to reiterate. YUMMMMM!!!!!
Maren building is knocked down and she gets let known when she is SLEEPING WITH THE BUILDING MANAGER, the only reason she was doing that because she thought that he controlled the rent but all that went out the window. After her troubled childhood she almost relapses into drinking at this rooftop bar after all the horrible things that happened. She bumps into the hottest guy she's ever seen then overhears that he knocked down her building! So she leaves.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn:🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darkness: N/A
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Range Of Emotions:🔥💗🌶️🥰😡🥵❤️🔥😢
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫 {DUAL}
🗂️ Genre: Romance
✨ Tropes: Small Town, Enemies to Lovers, He Falls First, Rich vs. Poor, Damaged MCs, Hurt/Comfort, Consent Steam
💋 Kinks: Control
⚠️ Warning: This is spicyyyyy and will at some points leave you very pissed off at certain characters
📣 Type: Naked Coffee Guy is book 2 of the Sunset Bay Series, but can be read as a standalone
YUMMMMMMMMMM!!!! This is an amazing book. They re-meet on a rooftop bar and he knows exactly who she is but refuses to tell her because he knocked down her building and gave the people 30 days to relocate. She almost drinks again then this man knocks her drink on her. Th spark between then is crazy. he gets her to take her shoes off and put her feet closer to the earth. She later finds out that he is this man known as "NAKED COFFEE GUY" who walks around her co-worker and her new roommates street in just shorts with a cup of coffee and his clearly massssssiveee 🍆. he has the whole neighbourhood watering at the mouth. It's wholeheartedly a difficult situation but they just seem drawn to each other. It's an amazing book and you must read it. Do I need to reiterate. YUMMMMM!!!!!
October 20, 2023
Couldn’t put it down, everything about this book just hits all the right marks! Mac and Maren are dynamite together, the backstory for both of them gets you right in the heart, there’s laughter and family drama and so much growth for the characters, and coffee, and great music, oh yeah and a sexy Mac running half naked around the neighborhood.
Mac and Maren meet for what she thinks is the first time on a not so great night for Maren. Her apartment has been sold and she’s got nowhere else to go but then Mac appears, and it feels like the start of something amazing. Until Maren finds out Mac is the reason she’s soon to be homeless, along with all the other people in her building. So she does the sensible thing and leaves figuring she’ll never see him again. Then as she’s enjoying her coffee and staring out the window of her new place, she spies Mac with no shoes and no shirt, coffee in hand, jogging through her neighborhood. Now he’s everywhere and very persuasive. Which is how she winds up agreeing too a casual no strings attached fling. But it doesn’t take long before nothing about them feels casual.
A lot more going on in this book than I was expecting. It’s got a lot of heart mixed in with the heat and it made this book fantastic. Maren is an exceptional main character and I loved seeing how she handles all the obstacles life throws her way. Also loved how open and honest she was about her past addiction and what she’s been through, just really added to her as a character. Mac is equally amazing in different ways and his support for Maren is so cute. Just a great book that is absolutely one I’d recommend.
Mac and Maren meet for what she thinks is the first time on a not so great night for Maren. Her apartment has been sold and she’s got nowhere else to go but then Mac appears, and it feels like the start of something amazing. Until Maren finds out Mac is the reason she’s soon to be homeless, along with all the other people in her building. So she does the sensible thing and leaves figuring she’ll never see him again. Then as she’s enjoying her coffee and staring out the window of her new place, she spies Mac with no shoes and no shirt, coffee in hand, jogging through her neighborhood. Now he’s everywhere and very persuasive. Which is how she winds up agreeing too a casual no strings attached fling. But it doesn’t take long before nothing about them feels casual.
A lot more going on in this book than I was expecting. It’s got a lot of heart mixed in with the heat and it made this book fantastic. Maren is an exceptional main character and I loved seeing how she handles all the obstacles life throws her way. Also loved how open and honest she was about her past addiction and what she’s been through, just really added to her as a character. Mac is equally amazing in different ways and his support for Maren is so cute. Just a great book that is absolutely one I’d recommend.
October 21, 2023
I picked up Naked Coffee Guy, fully expecting a passionate love-hate romance, and it certainly delivered; however, I wasn't prepared for all the other emotions the author cleverly managed to portray, with the two main characters both having suffered forms of damage at the hands of people who should have protected and cared for them. This leads to real vulnerability and a mixture of emotions, as both characters show fear, sadness, and regret. Both Mac and Maren have been affected by their pasts, and now Maren is scared to open up and let herself love, and Mac feels like he owes a debt to his 'foster father' even if he doesn't agree with the things he's done, and it's that feeling of guilt that may keep him from his happy ever after with Maren.
There were some absolutely wonderful moments between Mac and Maren, and I really loved watching their relationship grow as they both gradually let each other in, even if they did keep some semblance of a wall up. Through their individual POVs, we got to experience their personal struggles with how the budding relationship made them feel, and it also portrayed some real character growth, even if the lack of communication and the inner voice of self-doubt and loathing kept them apart for a period of time too.
I enjoyed the sideline characters who gave Maren the push to keep on moving forward, although I would have loved to have seen Mac have some kind of support system too, as he didn't seem to have anybody. It was great to see them both get some form of closure on their past lives too, in order to move on with their future.
There were some absolutely wonderful moments between Mac and Maren, and I really loved watching their relationship grow as they both gradually let each other in, even if they did keep some semblance of a wall up. Through their individual POVs, we got to experience their personal struggles with how the budding relationship made them feel, and it also portrayed some real character growth, even if the lack of communication and the inner voice of self-doubt and loathing kept them apart for a period of time too.
I enjoyed the sideline characters who gave Maren the push to keep on moving forward, although I would have loved to have seen Mac have some kind of support system too, as he didn't seem to have anybody. It was great to see them both get some form of closure on their past lives too, in order to move on with their future.
October 24, 2023
Maren has tried her best to overcome her past obstacles. However she and all the other tenants in her building are told to vacate their apartment within thirty days. About to drown her sorrows, she meets a guy she has an instant and intense connection with. Turns out, this man is the person who just sold her apartment building. Mac is dealing with his own insecurities about life stemming from his past. Even though he is rich and well known, he feels like his good life is just temporary. Mac has noticed Maren for a long time and is captivated by her. They help each other grow and get a handle on their insecurities. When the truth comes to light about how Mac knows Maren, will their relationship survive?
I DEVOURED this book! It was such a great read! I have always loved the “it feels like I have known this other person for forever” trope. The relationship between Mac and Maren is one that feels just like that. They feel like they can be themselves and be truthful and vulnerable with the other person.I really liked how Mac encouraged Maren to do things outside her comfort zone in order to help her make her passion a career and not just a hobby. I feel like someone wanting the best for you is an underrated sign of love. There are some difficult topics in this book so I would read the trigger warning list first. I felt like Crissi handled these topics with care, and did her research before writing about these. I can’t wait for the next book in the series, and I need to go back and read the first one. I’m looking forward to more books by Crissi Langwell.
I DEVOURED this book! It was such a great read! I have always loved the “it feels like I have known this other person for forever” trope. The relationship between Mac and Maren is one that feels just like that. They feel like they can be themselves and be truthful and vulnerable with the other person.I really liked how Mac encouraged Maren to do things outside her comfort zone in order to help her make her passion a career and not just a hobby. I feel like someone wanting the best for you is an underrated sign of love. There are some difficult topics in this book so I would read the trigger warning list first. I felt like Crissi handled these topics with care, and did her research before writing about these. I can’t wait for the next book in the series, and I need to go back and read the first one. I’m looking forward to more books by Crissi Langwell.
October 24, 2023
I have so many thoughts about Naked Coffee Guy. I'll try to keep them as coherent as possible.
The depiction of addiction and the struggles with healing during sobriety were spot-on. It's so difficult to understand what it's like to be controlled by a substance if you haven't lived it, and I found myself nodding in agreement with tears in my eyes several times when Maren had flashbacks or discussed her past with Mac.
He breaks away and I gasp for air, unsure how I’ll ever breathe again if he’s not there to breathe for me.
Love can be another form of addiction, and watching Maren struggle with her feelings kept me turning the pages well into the night. She fought hard against Mac, but he fought harder for her.
And folks, you are going to LOVE the way he fought!!
The humor in this book balances the heavier topics well. I snort-laughed on several occasions and dug the Mel Brooks-style delivery of several of the jokes. I like that it was funny without being silly and deep without being angsty. Mac and Maren were just two flawed people trying to fight the demons of their past while paving the way for a brighter future.
If you like complicated main characters, loveable side characters, and judgme people based on their coffee orders, this book is for you! (Okay, even if you don't, this book is for you. Just read it.)
Thank you, The Author Agency and Crissi Langwell, for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
The depiction of addiction and the struggles with healing during sobriety were spot-on. It's so difficult to understand what it's like to be controlled by a substance if you haven't lived it, and I found myself nodding in agreement with tears in my eyes several times when Maren had flashbacks or discussed her past with Mac.
He breaks away and I gasp for air, unsure how I’ll ever breathe again if he’s not there to breathe for me.
Love can be another form of addiction, and watching Maren struggle with her feelings kept me turning the pages well into the night. She fought hard against Mac, but he fought harder for her.
And folks, you are going to LOVE the way he fought!!
The humor in this book balances the heavier topics well. I snort-laughed on several occasions and dug the Mel Brooks-style delivery of several of the jokes. I like that it was funny without being silly and deep without being angsty. Mac and Maren were just two flawed people trying to fight the demons of their past while paving the way for a brighter future.
If you like complicated main characters, loveable side characters, and judgme people based on their coffee orders, this book is for you! (Okay, even if you don't, this book is for you. Just read it.)
Thank you, The Author Agency and Crissi Langwell, for the opportunity to read this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
October 18, 2023
Naked Coffee Guy is the first book I have read by Crissi Langwell. What I thought would be a cute neighbor to lovers romance was not what I got. What I got was a scorching hot enemies to lovers who are neighbors' romance, and I loved every minute of this book. I thought the storyline was original and page-turning, and I loved the chemistry the main characters shared. The world the author created for the characters was vivid in detail and had the right amount of drama and spice. I thought the characters were complex, had intriguing backstories, and a lot of heat.
Maren was a beautiful soul. She was strong, independent, and a spit-fire. I really enjoyed her attitude and her determination. My heart broke for her experiences throughout her life. I loved her resilience and passion for life and her music. Mac was possessive, obsessed, and a total Alpha. I loved his determination to get what he wanted. I enjoyed the banter and heat Maren and Mac brought out of each other. I laughed, cried, and laughed some more. I was all up in my feels while reading about both character's lives. My heart broke, and my stomach dropped throughout this book.
This book is the second in the Sunset Valley series and can be read as a standalone.- Brooke
Maren was a beautiful soul. She was strong, independent, and a spit-fire. I really enjoyed her attitude and her determination. My heart broke for her experiences throughout her life. I loved her resilience and passion for life and her music. Mac was possessive, obsessed, and a total Alpha. I loved his determination to get what he wanted. I enjoyed the banter and heat Maren and Mac brought out of each other. I laughed, cried, and laughed some more. I was all up in my feels while reading about both character's lives. My heart broke, and my stomach dropped throughout this book.
This book is the second in the Sunset Valley series and can be read as a standalone.- Brooke
October 28, 2023
I was wrapped up in this story from the start. The story plot was great, the characters were fantastic and excellent chemistry.
Book does talk about addiction and sobriety, abuse and mention of rape at a young age.
Both Mac and Maren were perfect together, Their souls were made for each other.
Both have been let down by loved ones and those that should have taken care of them. Very broken at a young age. I like how they meet and connect.
Mac is so gentle, adorable, amazing, patient, hot and so broken too. I loved how he just went for Maren, although he may have learned from previous lessons. He doesn't want to lose her.
Then there is Maren. She is just about living. For what she had gone through, she is so strong, feisty, kind and loving. I did feel sorry for her, when everything seemed to be falling apart. But sometimes life needs to fall apart for it all to make sense and start a new.
There are a lot of little twists and secrets which all make sense as story progresses. I liked how the author gave little info's here and there then we see the whole picture.
With banter, laughter, broken hearts, love, emotional and some spice.
All I will say I want my own Mac show every morning.
Book does talk about addiction and sobriety, abuse and mention of rape at a young age.
Both Mac and Maren were perfect together, Their souls were made for each other.
Both have been let down by loved ones and those that should have taken care of them. Very broken at a young age. I like how they meet and connect.
Mac is so gentle, adorable, amazing, patient, hot and so broken too. I loved how he just went for Maren, although he may have learned from previous lessons. He doesn't want to lose her.
Then there is Maren. She is just about living. For what she had gone through, she is so strong, feisty, kind and loving. I did feel sorry for her, when everything seemed to be falling apart. But sometimes life needs to fall apart for it all to make sense and start a new.
There are a lot of little twists and secrets which all make sense as story progresses. I liked how the author gave little info's here and there then we see the whole picture.
With banter, laughter, broken hearts, love, emotional and some spice.
All I will say I want my own Mac show every morning.
July 29, 2023
Maren Huerta has been on my mind since before the first book of the Sunset Bay series was written. In Masquerade Mistake, she was the character who always told the truth, and basically said what the reader was probably already thinking. Maren is crass, unapologetic, and honest to a fault. She also had to overcome some serious hurdles to get to where she is now. Despite her rock hard exterior, Maren is harboring some deep hurts, starting with her family.
Insert Mac Dermot, who has his own demons to battle. Originally, this book was supposed to be a single POV, just like the first. But A) I heard readers loud and clear that they really missed hearing the MMC's side of things in the first book, and B) something huge was missing when I re-read the first draft of this story. I soon realized Naked Coffee Guy deserved Mac's voice in the pages.
I mean, he is Naked Coffee Guy, after all.
This book was so much fun to write. I already told my mom she's not allowed to read it, because I did not hold back on the sensuality of their love story, or the use of Maren's favorite word (rhymes with duck).
I hope you love this story as much as I loved writing it.
Insert Mac Dermot, who has his own demons to battle. Originally, this book was supposed to be a single POV, just like the first. But A) I heard readers loud and clear that they really missed hearing the MMC's side of things in the first book, and B) something huge was missing when I re-read the first draft of this story. I soon realized Naked Coffee Guy deserved Mac's voice in the pages.
I mean, he is Naked Coffee Guy, after all.
This book was so much fun to write. I already told my mom she's not allowed to read it, because I did not hold back on the sensuality of their love story, or the use of Maren's favorite word (rhymes with duck).
I hope you love this story as much as I loved writing it.
October 20, 2023
first and for most thank you so much for the arc copy @crissilangwellbooks and @lovenotes.pr i was so honored to get the chance to read this book!!
okay so after reading this book i can officially say that i am a huge fan of small town romances!!! i mean when reading this book we become so immersed in the lives of the people in the story not only our main characters maren and mac, making this book so exciting to read.
when it came to our main characters i absolutely loved maren with her fiery personality and her difficult past that helped build her into the woman she was in the story!! i truly loved seeing her growth and her willingness to be more open.
mac in the other hand was such a sweetheart with such a gentleman feel to him that gave this book an amazing and spicy vibe!!
overall this was book was such a good read and honestly i’m so glad i was able to read it!! for those of u on the fence about checking it out, i say take that leap! the book is not as spicy as it may seem as the cover and was really more of a 3.5/5 on a spice scale!! it also is just such a good book in general that i’m sure you all will love it !!
okay so after reading this book i can officially say that i am a huge fan of small town romances!!! i mean when reading this book we become so immersed in the lives of the people in the story not only our main characters maren and mac, making this book so exciting to read.
when it came to our main characters i absolutely loved maren with her fiery personality and her difficult past that helped build her into the woman she was in the story!! i truly loved seeing her growth and her willingness to be more open.
mac in the other hand was such a sweetheart with such a gentleman feel to him that gave this book an amazing and spicy vibe!!
overall this was book was such a good read and honestly i’m so glad i was able to read it!! for those of u on the fence about checking it out, i say take that leap! the book is not as spicy as it may seem as the cover and was really more of a 3.5/5 on a spice scale!! it also is just such a good book in general that i’m sure you all will love it !!
October 21, 2023
This is the second book in the Sunset Bay series, but it can be read as a standalone! This was my first book written by Crissi and she may just be one of my new favorite authors. To say I loved this book is an understatement. I devoured it so quick!
Mac and Maren have chemistry that is off the charts hot. 🥵 The storyline was so good and so relatable. Not only did I cry, but my heart broke right along with the characters.
I loved the way Maren handled all of the obstacles thrown her way. I admire how open she is about her past and her addiction. I also loved how Mac used the unfortunate events in his life to better himself and help others.
The world the author created was vivid in detail and had the perfect balance of plot and spice. The plot/storyline is so unique and not like any other book I have read. I loved the writing style and I’m so excited to go back and read book 1 and I’ll definitely be reading book 3 when it comes!!
P.S- I’m over here 🤤 for Mac..
Read this if you love:
Billionaire
Musician
Small Town
Enemies to Lovers
He Falls First
Mac and Maren have chemistry that is off the charts hot. 🥵 The storyline was so good and so relatable. Not only did I cry, but my heart broke right along with the characters.
I loved the way Maren handled all of the obstacles thrown her way. I admire how open she is about her past and her addiction. I also loved how Mac used the unfortunate events in his life to better himself and help others.
The world the author created was vivid in detail and had the perfect balance of plot and spice. The plot/storyline is so unique and not like any other book I have read. I loved the writing style and I’m so excited to go back and read book 1 and I’ll definitely be reading book 3 when it comes!!
P.S- I’m over here 🤤 for Mac..
Read this if you love:
Billionaire
Musician
Small Town
Enemies to Lovers
He Falls First
October 22, 2023
Crissi Langwell is a new-to-me author and I'm so glad I took a chance on Naked Coffee Guy! I was expecting a steamy enemies-to-lovers romcom, but Mac and Maren's story had so much depth to it!
These two characters had insane chemistry right from the start. They were different in so many ways, yet they had so much in common. I loved getting to know them through their respective backstories, and appreciated the present-day connections that CL wrote for Mac and Maren.
Both damaged characters, Mac and Maren are each carrying around a lot of baggage. He was so determined to make her see him as someone she could trust and rely on, despite the fact that he was the reason she was forced out of her apartment. Mac worked so hard to right the wrongs that he had been a part of, and in a weird twist of fate, if it weren't for him, she would never have gotten to the place that she's at by the end of the book. Earning Maren's forgiveness meant everything to Mac, and the payoff was worth the 3rd act breakup!
I adored this story and these perfectly imperfect characters and look forward to reading more from Langwell!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
These two characters had insane chemistry right from the start. They were different in so many ways, yet they had so much in common. I loved getting to know them through their respective backstories, and appreciated the present-day connections that CL wrote for Mac and Maren.
Both damaged characters, Mac and Maren are each carrying around a lot of baggage. He was so determined to make her see him as someone she could trust and rely on, despite the fact that he was the reason she was forced out of her apartment. Mac worked so hard to right the wrongs that he had been a part of, and in a weird twist of fate, if it weren't for him, she would never have gotten to the place that she's at by the end of the book. Earning Maren's forgiveness meant everything to Mac, and the payoff was worth the 3rd act breakup!
I adored this story and these perfectly imperfect characters and look forward to reading more from Langwell!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
October 23, 2023
ARC Book Review
Naked Coffee Guy
A Novel Written By Crissi Langwell
Fiction - Romance
Published 2023
344 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the second book in the series. After reading this book, I’m going to read the first book in the series which is the main character’s best friend’s story.
The two main characters. Maren Huerta and Mac Dermot, are two people with baggage. They both have a backstory and a past they are not proud of.
Maren has worked hard for seven years to stay sober and make a better life for herself. She has a dream to be a successful musician. Obstacles keep getting thrown in her way.
Mac has become a successful businessman after a childhood in foster care.
When these two find each other, the chemistry is immediate. Can these two support each other and make a life together? Is Mac another obstacle in Maren’s journey to a better life?
The author has created two characters readers want to cheer for, especially Maren.
“I don’t care what you call me, as long as I get to be the one with your heart.”
Naked Coffee Guy
A Novel Written By Crissi Langwell
Fiction - Romance
Published 2023
344 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the second book in the series. After reading this book, I’m going to read the first book in the series which is the main character’s best friend’s story.
The two main characters. Maren Huerta and Mac Dermot, are two people with baggage. They both have a backstory and a past they are not proud of.
Maren has worked hard for seven years to stay sober and make a better life for herself. She has a dream to be a successful musician. Obstacles keep getting thrown in her way.
Mac has become a successful businessman after a childhood in foster care.
When these two find each other, the chemistry is immediate. Can these two support each other and make a life together? Is Mac another obstacle in Maren’s journey to a better life?
The author has created two characters readers want to cheer for, especially Maren.
“I don’t care what you call me, as long as I get to be the one with your heart.”
October 15, 2023
4/5⭐
4/5🌶
For the first time ever reading a book by Crissi Langwell it was a fairly good read.
Crissi has a great gift in tapping into emotions and is story is full of them.
When Maren met Mac Dermot the night she lost her apartment. It felt like t her life turned into one of
a series of horrible situations that only got better for a small time then came crashing down on hwr again..
Mac seemed to be a shinning light for her maybe even a way to start over.. until she found out he was the agent who sold her home to a demolition company. So off she flees
Of course fate has a funny way of bringing them back together and the chemistry is explosive. But secrets never stay hidden and they're thrown into dilemma after dilemma. Mac struggles with the feelings for her and the loyalty to the man that saved him from the streets..
This is a good emotional ride that you will enjoy!
4/5🌶
For the first time ever reading a book by Crissi Langwell it was a fairly good read.
Crissi has a great gift in tapping into emotions and is story is full of them.
When Maren met Mac Dermot the night she lost her apartment. It felt like t her life turned into one of
a series of horrible situations that only got better for a small time then came crashing down on hwr again..
Mac seemed to be a shinning light for her maybe even a way to start over.. until she found out he was the agent who sold her home to a demolition company. So off she flees
Of course fate has a funny way of bringing them back together and the chemistry is explosive. But secrets never stay hidden and they're thrown into dilemma after dilemma. Mac struggles with the feelings for her and the loyalty to the man that saved him from the streets..
This is a good emotional ride that you will enjoy!
October 18, 2023
Maren was losing her apartment and only had 30 days to find a new place. She could barely afford the place she was already in. Maren ended up at a bar but has been sober for many years and was about to give that up. Until Mac “accidentally” bumped into her and made her spill her drink. Mac knew who she was but Maren did not know who he was in the beginning. To her he was a knight in shining armor saving her but in reality he was the reason her life was a mess again. They did have a few bumps in the road and secrets always come out. Eventually Maren found out that he was the realtor that sold her home and Mac is struggling with what to do. He has feelings for her but also wants to protect the man who saved him from the streets. Maren and Mac both have had a rough past and did not have the best family guidance but they were able to be strong and overcome the past and find a way back to each other. The chemistry these two have is so good.
September 2, 2025
I waited too long to read this
This has been in my Kindle for months and I put off reading it and I have REGRETS.
This was fantastic. It felt real. The plot was a little overly complex but the emotions and Mac and ‘s backstories were so heart wrenching. The complex family dynamics and dealing with addiction…all of it made me love this story.
I also loved how Mac was obsessed with Maren and he’s that dominating alpha male type character but holy crap he wasn’t overbearing and gave Maren the space she needed to come back to him when she was ready. Her whole identity wasn’t wrapped up in her feelings for Mac. She continued forward and forged her own path and maintained her own sense of self and independence. Her growth was beautiful.
And the spice was definitely spicin!
This has been in my Kindle for months and I put off reading it and I have REGRETS.
This was fantastic. It felt real. The plot was a little overly complex but the emotions and Mac and ‘s backstories were so heart wrenching. The complex family dynamics and dealing with addiction…all of it made me love this story.
I also loved how Mac was obsessed with Maren and he’s that dominating alpha male type character but holy crap he wasn’t overbearing and gave Maren the space she needed to come back to him when she was ready. Her whole identity wasn’t wrapped up in her feelings for Mac. She continued forward and forged her own path and maintained her own sense of self and independence. Her growth was beautiful.
And the spice was definitely spicin!
October 14, 2023
✨Arc review✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Did I choose this book because of the name? 1000 percent! Was i disappointed? Not even a little.
I really loved Marens character, she was so strong and independent. She struggled but you saw her strength shine through.
Mac falls so hard for Maren, that man is obsessed with her from the start and she has no idea 😂 I really liked his story line and his past, he really went through it.
The tension in this book was done so well. You could feel the chemistry between these two immediately!
☕️He falls first
☕️Protective MMC
☕️Strong FMC
☕️Traumatic pasts
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Did I choose this book because of the name? 1000 percent! Was i disappointed? Not even a little.
I really loved Marens character, she was so strong and independent. She struggled but you saw her strength shine through.
Mac falls so hard for Maren, that man is obsessed with her from the start and she has no idea 😂 I really liked his story line and his past, he really went through it.
The tension in this book was done so well. You could feel the chemistry between these two immediately!
☕️He falls first
☕️Protective MMC
☕️Strong FMC
☕️Traumatic pasts
October 15, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
🔥🔥🔥
I basically wanted to read this because I love coffee!! However I ended up finding something unexpected and really enjoying it! Maren is such a deep and interesting character and I liked that her and Mac had some trauma in their pasts and found each other.
The book is actually full of little twists to keep you hooked until the end. And I loved the ending.
This is the second book in the series and I didn’t read the first but I’m going to now, I really like Crissi’s writing.
-Trauma and addiction
-He falls first
-Enemies to lovers
🔥🔥🔥
I basically wanted to read this because I love coffee!! However I ended up finding something unexpected and really enjoying it! Maren is such a deep and interesting character and I liked that her and Mac had some trauma in their pasts and found each other.
The book is actually full of little twists to keep you hooked until the end. And I loved the ending.
This is the second book in the series and I didn’t read the first but I’m going to now, I really like Crissi’s writing.
-Trauma and addiction
-He falls first
-Enemies to lovers
October 22, 2023
Mauren works in a cafe.
A work colleague tells her about a naked coffee guy who walks around her estate every day. After a hard day, Mauren meets the mysterious Mac. They share incredible energy.
A month later, a woman moves in with her friend and on the first morning she discovers that the coffee guy is Mac.
A book with a very nice plot. A mysterious new friend who is not such a new friend. Huge chemistry between the main characters. Big plus for retrospection.
Plus for raising difficult family relationships and the topic of addiction.
A work colleague tells her about a naked coffee guy who walks around her estate every day. After a hard day, Mauren meets the mysterious Mac. They share incredible energy.
A month later, a woman moves in with her friend and on the first morning she discovers that the coffee guy is Mac.
A book with a very nice plot. A mysterious new friend who is not such a new friend. Huge chemistry between the main characters. Big plus for retrospection.
Plus for raising difficult family relationships and the topic of addiction.
October 23, 2023
Definitely worth reading and the saying don’t judge a book by its cover comes to mind. This book is deep and both damaged MC go through a so many different traumas and wonderful experiences too. Mac is such a sweet guy and all he does behind the scenes for Maren! He doesn’t let his horrible past guide the life he leads now and does his best to make things better. And Maren wow what a strong, brave, rockstar! She’s go through so many things and still moved forward. This book was so good! And the end omg!!! I definitely recommend that you read this book asap!!!
July 15, 2024
Maren and Mac 😍
Maren and Mac are just perfect for each other! I couldn’t have dreamt up someone more perfect for Maren, especially with all she has been through in her life. Because Mac gets it, he had a rough childhood as well and understands Maren and her boundaries and hang ups so perfectly! I will say this was probably my least favorite of the three books in the series but I still loved it and recommend! It was nice to see Maren get a happy ending! And we love a good naked coffee guy 😉😏
Maren and Mac are just perfect for each other! I couldn’t have dreamt up someone more perfect for Maren, especially with all she has been through in her life. Because Mac gets it, he had a rough childhood as well and understands Maren and her boundaries and hang ups so perfectly! I will say this was probably my least favorite of the three books in the series but I still loved it and recommend! It was nice to see Maren get a happy ending! And we love a good naked coffee guy 😉😏
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