What do you think?
Rate this book
South of The Skyway
Sometimes all it takes is one chance encounter to change your life forever. Brexley After years of hard work finally paying off, I am finally content with my life just the way it is. I've built my bookstore from the ground up with my very best friend, and don't need any distractions. Which is why the more than six feet of tattooed man-muscle waltzing into our favorite bar can— under no circumstances —be anything more than a chemistry-crazed one night stand. Or two. Three max , okay? Rhyett Everything always works out how it's supposed to…as long as I follow my gut. When I traded the cloudy, gray mountains of Mistyvale, Alaska for the endless summer of Florida's gulf coast, I didn't expect my intuition to lead me straight to the feisty and fiercely independent Brexley Snows. I especially didn’t think I'd find myself falling for a woman ten years my junior. Lucky for her, I've never been a man that gives up easily. Persuading my grumpy Florida fling to slow down and come South of The Skyway might be my greatest endeavor yet.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2023
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
August 17, 2023
This was such a sweet, feel good book. Lots of spice from start to finish, with an actual plot to move the story along.
There were a few moments in the middle of the book where I felt the story dragged just a bit which made me feel like perhaps the book could have been a bit shorter.
The FMC was super relatable to me. The MC was almost unrealistically dreamy, I can’t think of any character flaws he may have had. At times his perfect character felt unrealistic and it pulled me out of the story. But for the most part, I totally loved him. He’s respectful, values consent, and knows what he wants.
Overall, I loved this book. The spice was spicing, the romance made me kick my feet and twirl my hair. Everything I wanted.
There were a few moments in the middle of the book where I felt the story dragged just a bit which made me feel like perhaps the book could have been a bit shorter.
The FMC was super relatable to me. The MC was almost unrealistically dreamy, I can’t think of any character flaws he may have had. At times his perfect character felt unrealistic and it pulled me out of the story. But for the most part, I totally loved him. He’s respectful, values consent, and knows what he wants.
Overall, I loved this book. The spice was spicing, the romance made me kick my feet and twirl my hair. Everything I wanted.
May 15, 2024
the lover girl in me is just😭🥰🥹🤭
August 4, 2023
This is a reverse grumpy x sunshine romance. It had a 10-year age gap, but it didn't actually feel like a big age gap.
Rhyett is the sunshine in this relationship. He has come to Florida to start building his parents' dream home and set up a new business. He is checking out the nightlife for research when he runs into Brexley at a bar. They have a one night stand at the bar, but Rhyett immediately wants more.
Brexley owns a book store with he very friend. She is definitely the grump in this romance. Her mom abandoned her, and her dad was extremely neglectful, so she did not want a relationship. They decide to just be friends with benefits, but it's clear there is much more between them.
Honestly, I had a few issues with this book, but most of them may just be due to my taste. I usually read a lot of dark romance so the rom com /low conflict books bore me. Not much happened in this book till the end, and I felt it was drawn out too long.
Brexley irritated me for most of the book. She continued to make lame excuses for why she couldn't be with him. Rhyett was a perfect hero, and she kept denying their relationship. Her reasoning was weak and could not hold up. The pacing just felt off to me, and I was skimming a lot of the book.
That does not mean this is a bad book, I just think it's not my style. The writing was good, and the rest of the series may get better since she was settling up the characters and location in this book.
3.5 Stars (rounded up)
🌶🌶.5
Thank you to Literally Yours for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rhyett is the sunshine in this relationship. He has come to Florida to start building his parents' dream home and set up a new business. He is checking out the nightlife for research when he runs into Brexley at a bar. They have a one night stand at the bar, but Rhyett immediately wants more.
Brexley owns a book store with he very friend. She is definitely the grump in this romance. Her mom abandoned her, and her dad was extremely neglectful, so she did not want a relationship. They decide to just be friends with benefits, but it's clear there is much more between them.
Honestly, I had a few issues with this book, but most of them may just be due to my taste. I usually read a lot of dark romance so the rom com /low conflict books bore me. Not much happened in this book till the end, and I felt it was drawn out too long.
Brexley irritated me for most of the book. She continued to make lame excuses for why she couldn't be with him. Rhyett was a perfect hero, and she kept denying their relationship. Her reasoning was weak and could not hold up. The pacing just felt off to me, and I was skimming a lot of the book.
That does not mean this is a bad book, I just think it's not my style. The writing was good, and the rest of the series may get better since she was settling up the characters and location in this book.
3.5 Stars (rounded up)
🌶🌶.5
Thank you to Literally Yours for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2023
“If you give me a chance to earn more of you, I’ll fight like hell for it….” - Rhyett
South of the Skyway gave me chills as I read it. Starting off by finding out the FMC was an Aries, like me, I knew I’d find a connection to her immediately. I definitely started laughing when she feared the MMC was an Aquarius because trust me, my husband is one and I knew exactly what she felt.
Reading this book in public was tough 😆 my teenage daughter glanced over a page and immediately said “Mom, what are you reading! You’re reading THAT at a one year old’s birthday party!!! Put that away!” because OMG it’s spicy!!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The story follows Brexley & Rhyett. Two people that come from literally opposite sides of the country…they end up meeting and instantly fall in lust with each other. They each come from very different backgrounds and upbringings but despite their differences, fate brought the two together and a one night stand turned into two, then three….and I’m sure you know where I’m going.
The book was so well written and descriptive that it allowed me to really connect with it and the characters. I really enjoyed the book and I’m grateful to have been able to be one of the first to read it. I look forward to reading the other books in the series. Sydne has instantly become a favorite author as she’s proven to be capable of writing not only romance but fantasy romance as well with Commanding Flame & Shield being one of my top reads of the year.
South of the Skyway gave me chills as I read it. Starting off by finding out the FMC was an Aries, like me, I knew I’d find a connection to her immediately. I definitely started laughing when she feared the MMC was an Aquarius because trust me, my husband is one and I knew exactly what she felt.
Reading this book in public was tough 😆 my teenage daughter glanced over a page and immediately said “Mom, what are you reading! You’re reading THAT at a one year old’s birthday party!!! Put that away!” because OMG it’s spicy!!! 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The story follows Brexley & Rhyett. Two people that come from literally opposite sides of the country…they end up meeting and instantly fall in lust with each other. They each come from very different backgrounds and upbringings but despite their differences, fate brought the two together and a one night stand turned into two, then three….and I’m sure you know where I’m going.
The book was so well written and descriptive that it allowed me to really connect with it and the characters. I really enjoyed the book and I’m grateful to have been able to be one of the first to read it. I look forward to reading the other books in the series. Sydne has instantly become a favorite author as she’s proven to be capable of writing not only romance but fantasy romance as well with Commanding Flame & Shield being one of my top reads of the year.
August 1, 2023
*Thank you to Literally PR for sending me an ARC copy of this book.
4.75⭐️/ 4-5🌶️
A reverse grumpy/ sunshine, age gap romance, and a one night stand! Well, that sounds like a good time, and with this story it really was! Brexley and Rhyett were two people who met randomly one night while at a bar. Sparks flew, kisses were shared, and a bit of steam that was burning between Brexley and Rhyett! You would think that maybe, Rhyett was going to be the grumpy one, but oh no, he was a cheerful man. Whereas, Brexley was the grumpy one, didn’t like to socialize with others if she could avoid it, and was pretty much an introvert. Did I mention this book also had a cute dog and Brexley being a bookstore owner?! So, you can expect some bookish things mentioned along the way for my bookish friends out there! Definitely lighthearted moments, fun and flirty banter, sexy, and more!
Ok, another thing I loved right off the bat when I started reading this book was the fact that Brexley owned a bookstore! My fellow bookworm! Yay! Seemed fitting that Brexley owned a bookstore since she obviously loved books, but was able to hide away in her office whenever she wanted to avoid others. Brexley was pretty much an introvert, grumpy, and independent. The thing with Brexley though was she wasn’t a rude person, she wasn’t fully grumpy, she just preferred not to talk often with other people as much. In other words, if Brexley could avoid speaking or interacting with people, she’d much prefer that. Brexley was overall kind and warm to those closest to hers and as much as she didn’t enjoy socializing as much as others. When it came to running her successfully bookstore she kept busy and at least attempted to connect with customers at times. Although, when it came to Brexley going out with her best friends, she threw caution to the wind, and let herself go with the flow, which resulted in meeting a mighty fine man that rocked her world in a night!
I’d be lying by saying I wasn’t picturing Charlie Hunman as Rhyett, but… something about reading about a blonde, handsome man, and my mind instantly pictured him as Rhyett. Anyways, Rhyett was a cheerful, optimistic, and outgoing man. All about his family, that included twelve children! Yikes talk about all the labor his mom went through! Rhyett was devoted to his family and his thriving businesses. With his newest venture into obtaining a place in Florida, Rhyett set out to take a look around, and then stumbled upon a bar where he locked eyes with the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. If Rhyett was an animal, he truly would be a golden retriever because, he was determined to have Brexley all to himself.
Between the small flirty talks, playing darts, and chemistry brewing between Rhyett and Brexley, it quickly resulted in a hot hookup which left both of them satisfied. Although, Brexley was content to go her own way, Rhyett wasn’t ready since he wanted more with Brexley. The reverse grumpy/ sunshine dynamic was done really well especially when seeing just how much Rhyett really liked Brexley and tried pursuing her even after their one night stand. Shoot even the fact of Rhyett imagining a future with Brexley in a serious way along the lines of being part of his huge family was a pretty big deal! Brexley was initially unsure about whether or not to continue with Rhyett in a more romantic relationship type of way, but with Rhyett’s understanding and positive attitude, even Brex couldn’t deny that he had a certain charm to him that spoke to her specifically. Little by little, with the unexpected run-ins into each other, both Brexley and Rhyett found themselves spending more together.
If I thought Rhyett was already a great man, him acting like a total crush obsessed man, add in Rhyett calling Brex a “good girl” and I just about almost screamed for joy! Haha the spice in this story was well done, not too much or too little, just right! I also loved the way the intimacy was written to be beyond just sex, it spoke to a deeper level of how much Brexley and Rhyett had a hold on each other.
“Like my pleasure was a battle. His body was his weapon, deftly destroying everything else as he connected our souls.”
Clearly, Rhyett knew EXACTLY what he was doing, and in effect, Brexley was blown away. Dang talk about such a deep connection, a level of intimacy shown through a sex scene! That being said, OH MY GOODNESS! Once I got further into the story, the spice went up a lot higher and hotter like, “HAVE MERCY” without spoiling it for you, just know that for my bookish girlies and guys, there’s a scene where… let’s just say Rhyett asks Brexley what’s her favorite spicy in a book and…let’s just say Rhyett was detailed in following along with the story! OMG OMG OMG! AHHHHH! I WAS ABSOLUTELY SCREAMING AND SQUEALING! GIRL! Sydne didn’t play around with this spice! PHEW! I NEEDED WATER! STAT!
You guys! I really loved the romance between Brexley and Rhyett! They were so passionate, fun, loving, caring, sexy, and an overall perfect match together! To think, it all started with a one night stand?! But it became so much more with Brexley and Rhyett spending more time together, getting to know one another, and it was just so much fun to read! I was along for the ride from the thoughtful, deep moments of Rhyett being so present and attentive towards Brexley to Brexley letting Rhyett know how much she truly liked him, and of course, my jaw absolutely dropping while reading the spicy scenes!
I gotta say, this was such a fun story! With some of my favorite tropes from age gap romance, reverse grumpy/ sunshine, lovable characters, spice galore, and an amazing family dynamic, this story had it all! I genuinely didn’t expect to be this heads over heels in love with this book. I knew going into this story, I would like parts of it, but nope! My expectations were blown away, and I absolutely loved both Brexley and Rhyett ( by the way, very interesting names which was cool). Brexley wasn’t too much of a grump that made her unlikable, if anything I could somewhat understand her personality and why she didn’t like to be in crowded areas or having to socialize with people (same). Rhyett truly was a sunshine man filled with confidence, optimism, and a whole lot of love for Brexley. The bookish mentions in this story made me so happy! Definitely had my fair share of smiles, laughter, shock, surprise, and a couple of jaw dropping moments! Even the spicy scenes in this story blew me away like, I wasn’t expecting that level of spice to be in this story, but… THANK YOU! I cannot get over the scenes that I read! From beginning, middle, and end, this story was filled with many memorable moments! To the very end of the story I was at the edge of my seat, and with that cliff hanger of an ending, IM GOING TO NEED THIS NEXT BOOK PLEASE! I’m truly grateful I got a chance to read this book, and I’m really looking forward to future books within this series! Highly recommend if you love reverse grumpy/ sunshine, she’s the owner of a bookstore/ cafe, equal parts romance, spice, and heartfelt moments, and more!
4.75⭐️/ 4-5🌶️
A reverse grumpy/ sunshine, age gap romance, and a one night stand! Well, that sounds like a good time, and with this story it really was! Brexley and Rhyett were two people who met randomly one night while at a bar. Sparks flew, kisses were shared, and a bit of steam that was burning between Brexley and Rhyett! You would think that maybe, Rhyett was going to be the grumpy one, but oh no, he was a cheerful man. Whereas, Brexley was the grumpy one, didn’t like to socialize with others if she could avoid it, and was pretty much an introvert. Did I mention this book also had a cute dog and Brexley being a bookstore owner?! So, you can expect some bookish things mentioned along the way for my bookish friends out there! Definitely lighthearted moments, fun and flirty banter, sexy, and more!
Ok, another thing I loved right off the bat when I started reading this book was the fact that Brexley owned a bookstore! My fellow bookworm! Yay! Seemed fitting that Brexley owned a bookstore since she obviously loved books, but was able to hide away in her office whenever she wanted to avoid others. Brexley was pretty much an introvert, grumpy, and independent. The thing with Brexley though was she wasn’t a rude person, she wasn’t fully grumpy, she just preferred not to talk often with other people as much. In other words, if Brexley could avoid speaking or interacting with people, she’d much prefer that. Brexley was overall kind and warm to those closest to hers and as much as she didn’t enjoy socializing as much as others. When it came to running her successfully bookstore she kept busy and at least attempted to connect with customers at times. Although, when it came to Brexley going out with her best friends, she threw caution to the wind, and let herself go with the flow, which resulted in meeting a mighty fine man that rocked her world in a night!
I’d be lying by saying I wasn’t picturing Charlie Hunman as Rhyett, but… something about reading about a blonde, handsome man, and my mind instantly pictured him as Rhyett. Anyways, Rhyett was a cheerful, optimistic, and outgoing man. All about his family, that included twelve children! Yikes talk about all the labor his mom went through! Rhyett was devoted to his family and his thriving businesses. With his newest venture into obtaining a place in Florida, Rhyett set out to take a look around, and then stumbled upon a bar where he locked eyes with the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. If Rhyett was an animal, he truly would be a golden retriever because, he was determined to have Brexley all to himself.
Between the small flirty talks, playing darts, and chemistry brewing between Rhyett and Brexley, it quickly resulted in a hot hookup which left both of them satisfied. Although, Brexley was content to go her own way, Rhyett wasn’t ready since he wanted more with Brexley. The reverse grumpy/ sunshine dynamic was done really well especially when seeing just how much Rhyett really liked Brexley and tried pursuing her even after their one night stand. Shoot even the fact of Rhyett imagining a future with Brexley in a serious way along the lines of being part of his huge family was a pretty big deal! Brexley was initially unsure about whether or not to continue with Rhyett in a more romantic relationship type of way, but with Rhyett’s understanding and positive attitude, even Brex couldn’t deny that he had a certain charm to him that spoke to her specifically. Little by little, with the unexpected run-ins into each other, both Brexley and Rhyett found themselves spending more together.
If I thought Rhyett was already a great man, him acting like a total crush obsessed man, add in Rhyett calling Brex a “good girl” and I just about almost screamed for joy! Haha the spice in this story was well done, not too much or too little, just right! I also loved the way the intimacy was written to be beyond just sex, it spoke to a deeper level of how much Brexley and Rhyett had a hold on each other.
“Like my pleasure was a battle. His body was his weapon, deftly destroying everything else as he connected our souls.”
Clearly, Rhyett knew EXACTLY what he was doing, and in effect, Brexley was blown away. Dang talk about such a deep connection, a level of intimacy shown through a sex scene! That being said, OH MY GOODNESS! Once I got further into the story, the spice went up a lot higher and hotter like, “HAVE MERCY” without spoiling it for you, just know that for my bookish girlies and guys, there’s a scene where… let’s just say Rhyett asks Brexley what’s her favorite spicy in a book and…let’s just say Rhyett was detailed in following along with the story! OMG OMG OMG! AHHHHH! I WAS ABSOLUTELY SCREAMING AND SQUEALING! GIRL! Sydne didn’t play around with this spice! PHEW! I NEEDED WATER! STAT!
You guys! I really loved the romance between Brexley and Rhyett! They were so passionate, fun, loving, caring, sexy, and an overall perfect match together! To think, it all started with a one night stand?! But it became so much more with Brexley and Rhyett spending more time together, getting to know one another, and it was just so much fun to read! I was along for the ride from the thoughtful, deep moments of Rhyett being so present and attentive towards Brexley to Brexley letting Rhyett know how much she truly liked him, and of course, my jaw absolutely dropping while reading the spicy scenes!
I gotta say, this was such a fun story! With some of my favorite tropes from age gap romance, reverse grumpy/ sunshine, lovable characters, spice galore, and an amazing family dynamic, this story had it all! I genuinely didn’t expect to be this heads over heels in love with this book. I knew going into this story, I would like parts of it, but nope! My expectations were blown away, and I absolutely loved both Brexley and Rhyett ( by the way, very interesting names which was cool). Brexley wasn’t too much of a grump that made her unlikable, if anything I could somewhat understand her personality and why she didn’t like to be in crowded areas or having to socialize with people (same). Rhyett truly was a sunshine man filled with confidence, optimism, and a whole lot of love for Brexley. The bookish mentions in this story made me so happy! Definitely had my fair share of smiles, laughter, shock, surprise, and a couple of jaw dropping moments! Even the spicy scenes in this story blew me away like, I wasn’t expecting that level of spice to be in this story, but… THANK YOU! I cannot get over the scenes that I read! From beginning, middle, and end, this story was filled with many memorable moments! To the very end of the story I was at the edge of my seat, and with that cliff hanger of an ending, IM GOING TO NEED THIS NEXT BOOK PLEASE! I’m truly grateful I got a chance to read this book, and I’m really looking forward to future books within this series! Highly recommend if you love reverse grumpy/ sunshine, she’s the owner of a bookstore/ cafe, equal parts romance, spice, and heartfelt moments, and more!
August 12, 2023
I received this as an ARC and this is my honest review:
First starting it, I felt it was slow and I wasn’t very interested. I kept reading though and things started to pick up about 10% in. I ended up really enjoying this book and it’s very smut worthy if that’s something you’re looking for. I went back and forth with getting slightly bored and then super interested throughout the entire book. Overall a 3.75 or 4 star for me.
Set in Tampa, Brexley Snows, our FMC meets our MMC, Rhyett, at a bar when they catch each others eyes from across the room. Things happen (one night stand trope) and then Rhyett wants her information to meet back up. Brexley leaves it “up to fate” and just leaves without another word.
Surprise, they meet again (in such a cute way I might add) and the story takes a grumpy/sunshine trope with Brexley being the grump. She and her best friend, Noel, run a smutty bookstore/“literary cafe” called The Cracked Corset, which I LOVED reading about. Rhyett gives golden retriever energy in the best way. There’s an age-gap romance that I loved. They’re both successful on their own and Brexley feels a relationship is not what she needs.
Reading about their relationship and watching it, amongst other relationships grow, was really enjoyable. ALSO THAT ENDING WAS CRAZY. Can’t wait to read the next book!
First starting it, I felt it was slow and I wasn’t very interested. I kept reading though and things started to pick up about 10% in. I ended up really enjoying this book and it’s very smut worthy if that’s something you’re looking for. I went back and forth with getting slightly bored and then super interested throughout the entire book. Overall a 3.75 or 4 star for me.
Set in Tampa, Brexley Snows, our FMC meets our MMC, Rhyett, at a bar when they catch each others eyes from across the room. Things happen (one night stand trope) and then Rhyett wants her information to meet back up. Brexley leaves it “up to fate” and just leaves without another word.
Surprise, they meet again (in such a cute way I might add) and the story takes a grumpy/sunshine trope with Brexley being the grump. She and her best friend, Noel, run a smutty bookstore/“literary cafe” called The Cracked Corset, which I LOVED reading about. Rhyett gives golden retriever energy in the best way. There’s an age-gap romance that I loved. They’re both successful on their own and Brexley feels a relationship is not what she needs.
Reading about their relationship and watching it, amongst other relationships grow, was really enjoyable. ALSO THAT ENDING WAS CRAZY. Can’t wait to read the next book!
August 2, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
🌶🌶🌶🌶 (4.5/5)
"This wasn't supposed to happen. I wasn't looking for someone I wanted to do life with. Bad boss bitches didn't need a man to complete them. But oh my god, this man."
This story pulled me in from the start! A boss babe who owns a smutty romance bookstore?! A man who loves his huge family and is looking for that "once in a lifetime" love?! I loved the dynamic between the main characters, Brexley and Rhyett. Their banter was hilarious and their chemistry was HOT! The spice in this book was plentiful and did not detract from any of the plot. The interactions with all the side characters gave both main characters so much depth and made the whole cast of characters feel real. I am so excited to read the next book in the Nomaic Rhodes series!
Thank to Sydne Barnett for sharing this ARC with me! All opinions are my own.
🌶🌶🌶🌶 (4.5/5)
"This wasn't supposed to happen. I wasn't looking for someone I wanted to do life with. Bad boss bitches didn't need a man to complete them. But oh my god, this man."
This story pulled me in from the start! A boss babe who owns a smutty romance bookstore?! A man who loves his huge family and is looking for that "once in a lifetime" love?! I loved the dynamic between the main characters, Brexley and Rhyett. Their banter was hilarious and their chemistry was HOT! The spice in this book was plentiful and did not detract from any of the plot. The interactions with all the side characters gave both main characters so much depth and made the whole cast of characters feel real. I am so excited to read the next book in the Nomaic Rhodes series!
Thank to Sydne Barnett for sharing this ARC with me! All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2023
*insert girly kicking and squealing
I’m not a huge contemporary romance girly but now I am! Sydne Barnett can just take all my money cause I’m a life time fan. She made me fall in love with a man that *gasp is blond. I could not but this book down and I’m ready for book two. The last several chapters had me in a chokehold hold , a BA bookish girl who owns her own bookstore, reverse grumpy sunshine, age gap! I could not put this book down awnd I’m ready for book two. The last several chapters had me in a chokehold hold. Be a “good girl” and go read South Of The Skyway.
I’m not a huge contemporary romance girly but now I am! Sydne Barnett can just take all my money cause I’m a life time fan. She made me fall in love with a man that *gasp is blond. I could not but this book down and I’m ready for book two. The last several chapters had me in a chokehold hold , a BA bookish girl who owns her own bookstore, reverse grumpy sunshine, age gap! I could not put this book down awnd I’m ready for book two. The last several chapters had me in a chokehold hold. Be a “good girl” and go read South Of The Skyway.
August 11, 2023
I randomly came across this book whilst scrolling through the gram the other day and I must say I am not disappointed!
I loved the idea of a grumpy fmc and a sunshine mmc, mix it with a lil age gap and both are career driven?? Yes please! And the fact that Rhyett came from a MASSIVE family and is such a family man so treats Brexley the way she should be treated?? Double YES 👏🏼
The part I loved the most was that Brexley and Noel own a coffee shop / bookstore together and reference soooo many of the big books going around atm. It’s every book readers dream and it just felt as if Brex was just one of us.
The entire book was just a feel good love story and was exactly what I needed to read and left me wanting more (especially more of the Rhodes brothers) but leaving a cliffhanger like that???? 😫😫😫
Bookstagram: @tothegirlswhoread
I loved the idea of a grumpy fmc and a sunshine mmc, mix it with a lil age gap and both are career driven?? Yes please! And the fact that Rhyett came from a MASSIVE family and is such a family man so treats Brexley the way she should be treated?? Double YES 👏🏼
The part I loved the most was that Brexley and Noel own a coffee shop / bookstore together and reference soooo many of the big books going around atm. It’s every book readers dream and it just felt as if Brex was just one of us.
The entire book was just a feel good love story and was exactly what I needed to read and left me wanting more (especially more of the Rhodes brothers) but leaving a cliffhanger like that???? 😫😫😫
Bookstagram: @tothegirlswhoread
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2023
this was a solid 3.5 for me- I really enjoyed it but I would’ve loved more of certain elements, rhyett’s and brexley’s story was wonderful, but I would’ve loved more tension between them, and more development of their relationship. but i totally love the two of them together. i also was SO intrigued by noel’s situation and I want to see more of that! i feel like with it being brexley’s BFF, i would’ve wanted to get into that more. but with the way it left off im hopeful we will get her story soon!
August 1, 2023
ARC reader review
Sydne has done it again. Another 5 star read for me.
This time with a romantic spicy book scened in Florida.
Who doesn't love a bad ass boss bitch who takes no bullshit from a man. Brexly is an independent stong woman in her mid twenties who owns a bookstore with her chosen family and closest friends, who wouldn't look twice on a man after her last disaster of a relationship.
But Rhyett is not just any man. A happy, go-lucky man in his mid thirties searching for new adventures and opportunities, scoping out Florida and all it's treausers. Finding gold his first night there, he convince her to give him a chance.
Pleasure dom in the sheets, gentleman in the streets.
Buckle up, because this is going to be a humpy ride! This is hot and steamy from start to finish😉
Tropes:
FMC and MMC over the age of 21
Age gap
Bookstore owner
Found family
Unexpected love
Smut smut smut!!
They said always leave them wanting more, and Sydne did... I'm already impatiently waiting for the sequel!!
Sydne has done it again. Another 5 star read for me.
This time with a romantic spicy book scened in Florida.
Who doesn't love a bad ass boss bitch who takes no bullshit from a man. Brexly is an independent stong woman in her mid twenties who owns a bookstore with her chosen family and closest friends, who wouldn't look twice on a man after her last disaster of a relationship.
But Rhyett is not just any man. A happy, go-lucky man in his mid thirties searching for new adventures and opportunities, scoping out Florida and all it's treausers. Finding gold his first night there, he convince her to give him a chance.
Pleasure dom in the sheets, gentleman in the streets.
Buckle up, because this is going to be a humpy ride! This is hot and steamy from start to finish😉
Tropes:
FMC and MMC over the age of 21
Age gap
Bookstore owner
Found family
Unexpected love
Smut smut smut!!
They said always leave them wanting more, and Sydne did... I'm already impatiently waiting for the sequel!!
August 6, 2023
Sydne Barnett Has a way of bringing you into the story! South Of The Skyway had me hooked from the beginning! I feel in love with the Rhyett and Brex and loved to see how they developed throughout this book, I am SO excited to see where else we go with this family!!! 🔥🔥🔥
August 15, 2023
I don’t even know where to start. First off thank you so much to Sydne and her team for allowing me an ARC of this book!! I know I’m a slow paper reader but DAMN was it worth it!!! This is one of my favorite reads in the last few months and one that made me actually laugh out loud. Rhyett and Brexley had incredible chemistry and you could just feel their heat through the pages!!! I also loved that this wasn’t strictly another fluffy romance novel. While yes, there were the usual boy meets girl moments there were also real life topics covered and an incredibly strong FMC who absolutely took no shit from anyone!!
I loved this book and I’d say for my reading preference it was a 3 🌶️!! I can’t wait for the next one!
I loved this book and I’d say for my reading preference it was a 3 🌶️!! I can’t wait for the next one!
August 5, 2023
Holy crap this book! Sydne definitely has found her calling and knows what she’s doing! The story, the banter, the chemistry, one oooo girl that spice! Yes! Just yes! I also found myself unable to wipe a stupid grin off of my face many times at the freaking cuteness! Brexley is an independent badass woman who finds herself in a way she never knew possible until she met Rhyett. And Rhyett….everyone needs someone like him in their life. His unwavering support and encouragement is unmatched along with his capacity to love. And oh boy that man’s dirty, dirty mouth….I’m obsessed!! I can’t wait to continue reading this Nomadic Rhodes adventure!
August 29, 2023
First, thank you Synde and team for allowing me to read and review an ARC copy of this book (even though it is a little late).
If you are debating about starting this (I assume to be series about the Rhodes siblings) book, let me tell you all the reasons why this was an easy 5 star round up for me.
I was a bit terrified reading the troupes as I am not really into "One-Night-Stand" stories as well as reverse Grumpy-Sunshine as it feels like every new romance book out there seems to have one, the other, or both troupes. But this book was something different. We have Rhyett Rhodes - one of the nomadic Rhodes siblings who travels to Florida in order to start building his parents dream retirement home, moving from Alaska to Florida, as well as scouting out buildings for lease to start his new business - a speakeasy. Then we have Brexley, a native, who is an aspiring author, and owns a romance/smut bookstore cafe along with her best friends and her doggo Royal. Both are not looking for anything serious, but when conversation flows easily one night at the local bar which leads to a hook up in the bathroom, they both keep running into one another, Rhyett convinced it's fate.
I wouldn't call this a reverse grumpy-sunshine. Instead, it was more like Brexley trying to figure out who she was and who she wanted to be, not having the best upbringing, which leads her to keep her friends close and everyone else out. Then comes along Rhyett, who would literally do anything in order to have a piece of Brexley's attention, regardless if it was romantic or platonic.
This book was mainly about Brexley and her slow journey of learning that the love her parents had for one another and for her, was not love at all. All she had ever known was having love for people who were supposed to love her unconditionally, but ultimately left her. It took meeting Rhyett, a man who never thought he wanted to settle down and find love in one person, and his family to learn what true love was.
And I thought that was perfectly summed up in this non-third act breakup story. I have read other reviews of readers who disliked how "nothing" was happening throughout this book and it left them wanting more, but to them I say, I disagree. Personally, I don't need a "third act breakup" in order to find a book interesting. In fact, I actually prefer there not to be one. Such as in this book, when there isn't a third act breakup, that tells me that both characters are great communicators and that is one of the main reasons why I LOVED Rhyett. I loved how patient he was with Brexley, and how him supporting her regardless of what that looked like was second nature to him. Whenever anything happened, he just wanted to be the person she called for help or seek comfort from. And it melted my heart.
Rhyett is the reason why we have such high standards. Personally, Rhyett was a dream guy. His banter with Brexley was hilarious. Whenever Brexley called or texted him, he was like a school girl. He would drop literally anything if she needed him, regardless that they were both hard working and independent business people. They didn't need to be with one another 24/7, but when they did come together, they gave one another their pull attention. He took interest in her "chosen family" and fit in perfectly being an older brother figure to them. And lastly, again, he was patient with Brexley. He knew she was his future the moment he saw her, and gave her all the time and space she needed and asked for, as well as providing her reassurance that he was there for her.
The only thing I would say I couldn't wrap my head around, was how Rhyett was supposedly a fuck boy before meeting Brexley? A one-night stand guy. Like I don't buy it. Rhyett was made for commitment. Even in his chapters when he figured out he loved Brexley, he wholeheartedly accepted his feelings without a second guess.
If you are debating about starting this (I assume to be series about the Rhodes siblings) book, let me tell you all the reasons why this was an easy 5 star round up for me.
I was a bit terrified reading the troupes as I am not really into "One-Night-Stand" stories as well as reverse Grumpy-Sunshine as it feels like every new romance book out there seems to have one, the other, or both troupes. But this book was something different. We have Rhyett Rhodes - one of the nomadic Rhodes siblings who travels to Florida in order to start building his parents dream retirement home, moving from Alaska to Florida, as well as scouting out buildings for lease to start his new business - a speakeasy. Then we have Brexley, a native, who is an aspiring author, and owns a romance/smut bookstore cafe along with her best friends and her doggo Royal. Both are not looking for anything serious, but when conversation flows easily one night at the local bar which leads to a hook up in the bathroom, they both keep running into one another, Rhyett convinced it's fate.
I wouldn't call this a reverse grumpy-sunshine. Instead, it was more like Brexley trying to figure out who she was and who she wanted to be, not having the best upbringing, which leads her to keep her friends close and everyone else out. Then comes along Rhyett, who would literally do anything in order to have a piece of Brexley's attention, regardless if it was romantic or platonic.
This book was mainly about Brexley and her slow journey of learning that the love her parents had for one another and for her, was not love at all. All she had ever known was having love for people who were supposed to love her unconditionally, but ultimately left her. It took meeting Rhyett, a man who never thought he wanted to settle down and find love in one person, and his family to learn what true love was.
And I thought that was perfectly summed up in this non-third act breakup story. I have read other reviews of readers who disliked how "nothing" was happening throughout this book and it left them wanting more, but to them I say, I disagree. Personally, I don't need a "third act breakup" in order to find a book interesting. In fact, I actually prefer there not to be one. Such as in this book, when there isn't a third act breakup, that tells me that both characters are great communicators and that is one of the main reasons why I LOVED Rhyett. I loved how patient he was with Brexley, and how him supporting her regardless of what that looked like was second nature to him. Whenever anything happened, he just wanted to be the person she called for help or seek comfort from. And it melted my heart.
Rhyett is the reason why we have such high standards. Personally, Rhyett was a dream guy. His banter with Brexley was hilarious. Whenever Brexley called or texted him, he was like a school girl. He would drop literally anything if she needed him, regardless that they were both hard working and independent business people. They didn't need to be with one another 24/7, but when they did come together, they gave one another their pull attention. He took interest in her "chosen family" and fit in perfectly being an older brother figure to them. And lastly, again, he was patient with Brexley. He knew she was his future the moment he saw her, and gave her all the time and space she needed and asked for, as well as providing her reassurance that he was there for her.
The only thing I would say I couldn't wrap my head around, was how Rhyett was supposedly a fuck boy before meeting Brexley? A one-night stand guy. Like I don't buy it. Rhyett was made for commitment. Even in his chapters when he figured out he loved Brexley, he wholeheartedly accepted his feelings without a second guess.
August 3, 2023
Ahhhh! I freaking LOVED this book.
I first found author Sydne Barnett on TikTok and signed up to arc read for her debut fantasy novel, Commanding Flame and Shield. That book was my first 5⭐️ read for 2023. It was such a unique story and I loved her writing style. When she announced she was going to be writing a contemporary romance series, I knew I was going to want to read it.
"With all due respect, give me the goddamned 🍆"
When that ⬆️ quote is the opening line of the book, you know it is going to be good. This was definitely one of my favorite contemporary romances. It was a sweet, happy story, with found family vibes, a supportive cuddly guy, great nicknames, and excellent steamy scenes.
Main characters, Brexley and Rhyett have such amazing chemistry. She is a determined, strong woman who owns a bookstore and has worked hard to make it a successful business. She's grown up without much family support and has had to learn to be independent and create her own close nit family.
Rhyett is the ray of sunshine Brexley didn't know she needed in her life. He's a family guy, confident, successful and sweet, but omg is he SPICY in the sheets. Get ready to add another book boyfriend to your list. He is so supportive of her and her dreams, but still has that tough outer shell. He comes in and immediately fits in with her friend group too.
Brex's friends (found family) and Rhyett's family are all amazing side characters and its been set up well so that you can see who will be coming in as MC's for the next book. Especially after that ending, I am needing the next book NOW! Also, what book isn't made better with a sweet and happy golden retriever dog. ❤️ Royal.
Tropes:
Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
Age Gap (10 years)
She's mid 20's and he is mid 30's
Found Family
He Falls First
Fantastic Side Characters
Great Banter
One Night Stand
This is the kind of sweet, fun, heartwarming Hallmark story we want, but it doesn't shut the doors on the steamy scenes ... like at all!. It's the kind of book you grab and read over and over because it makes you happy and makes you want to cuddle up in your favorite reading spot with a cup of coffee (or tea for Rhyett).
I first found author Sydne Barnett on TikTok and signed up to arc read for her debut fantasy novel, Commanding Flame and Shield. That book was my first 5⭐️ read for 2023. It was such a unique story and I loved her writing style. When she announced she was going to be writing a contemporary romance series, I knew I was going to want to read it.
"With all due respect, give me the goddamned 🍆"
When that ⬆️ quote is the opening line of the book, you know it is going to be good. This was definitely one of my favorite contemporary romances. It was a sweet, happy story, with found family vibes, a supportive cuddly guy, great nicknames, and excellent steamy scenes.
"A quieter voice ... the one I'd stashed behind the potted plants gathering dust in the corner, said that sometimes people just fit. They stick. And keep on sticking. I'd never intended to find a man that stuck. Letting him into my life and climbing into his bed might have been a colossal mistake. However, if Rhyett Rhodes was a mistake ... he was my best one to date.
Main characters, Brexley and Rhyett have such amazing chemistry. She is a determined, strong woman who owns a bookstore and has worked hard to make it a successful business. She's grown up without much family support and has had to learn to be independent and create her own close nit family.
"Albert Einstein allegedly claimed, "Any man that can drive safely while kissing a pretty girl is simply not giving the kiss the attention it deserves." That wasn't the end of the limitation, in my humble opinion."
Rhyett is the ray of sunshine Brexley didn't know she needed in her life. He's a family guy, confident, successful and sweet, but omg is he SPICY in the sheets. Get ready to add another book boyfriend to your list. He is so supportive of her and her dreams, but still has that tough outer shell. He comes in and immediately fits in with her friend group too.
"It's your night, Val." "Yes, and as my nether regions are drier than a fast-food biscuit, I'd like to hear about yours."
Brex's friends (found family) and Rhyett's family are all amazing side characters and its been set up well so that you can see who will be coming in as MC's for the next book. Especially after that ending, I am needing the next book NOW! Also, what book isn't made better with a sweet and happy golden retriever dog. ❤️ Royal.
Tropes:
Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
Age Gap (10 years)
She's mid 20's and he is mid 30's
Found Family
He Falls First
Fantastic Side Characters
Great Banter
One Night Stand
This is the kind of sweet, fun, heartwarming Hallmark story we want, but it doesn't shut the doors on the steamy scenes ... like at all!. It's the kind of book you grab and read over and over because it makes you happy and makes you want to cuddle up in your favorite reading spot with a cup of coffee (or tea for Rhyett).
August 4, 2023
Amazon / Amazon Worldwide
Brexley prefers only socializing with her small circle of friends. She doesn't have a family to speak of, and she doesn't even really like going out and hanging out with a bunch of people. But one night at the bar with her bestie Noel has her laying eyes on a gorgeous guy and has the hottest encounter of her life. She's not up for exchanging contact info, though, and leaves it up to fate if they'll meet again.
Luckily for Rhyett, fate is favoring him because her dog brings them together again. Now that he's got his gorgeous fling in his sights, he's not letting her go again. He knows he can convince her grumpy self to take a chance on him, on them, and that they'll be fire together!
I so love it when the guy falls first, and damn did Rhyett fall! He fell hard, and spent the majority of the story wooing Brexley into his life. She may have had walls around her heart, but they were no match for the sweet charm of this Rhodes man. He and his family opened their many arms and welcomed her into their circle, and she was never the same again. Now I'm waiting very anxiously for Rhyett's brother Jameson's story with Brexley's best friend, Noel. I can already tell it will be just as sweet and sexy as Brexley and Rhyett's story.
ARC provided by Literally Yours PR for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Bookbub
August 1, 2023
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is what grumpy sunshine, light hearted books are made of!
this was absolutely a breezy 5⭐ read for me. South of the Skyway is a contemporary romance story with spice and the spice starts out pretty quickly. Let me hit you with the tropes.
Age gap
Black cat & golden retriever style grumpy/sunshine
Found family
He falls first
One night stand romance
Can I just say I want to be Brexley? she is our FMC, who for the past five years has been building a booming romance bookstore slash coffee shop with her best friend Noel called the Cracked Corset. She is very much an introvert, while Noel is her extroverted ray of sunshine best friend and business partner. Once or twice a month Brexley goes out with her girl gang family to the bars, and this is where our love story starts. Enter our MMC Rhyett Rhodes. A golden retriever small town alaskan fisherman turned multi-business entrepreneur. He has come to Florida to set up his parents vacation home and expand to a new business, while out to scope out the local talents he spots our girl Brexley and is instantly sold. Neither of these two were looking for love, but fate seemed to have other plans.
Like I said before, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, with plenty of banter and rich backstories of the characters you could already get hints of how this world is going to expand into a series of stand alone's. This story really pulls the reader in with the feel good reads that really takes the characters on a journey of growth (Thank god for no third act break-up!). Rhyett is top tier book boyfriend material, he is patient, devoted, funny, good hearted, smart and the epitome of the type of guy you'd want to take home to your family. He is completely devoted to his family and has a wonderful relationship with them. I think I fell so hard into this story is because I saw a lot of myself in Brexley, the characters FEEL real.
The side characters are already starting to develop in this story, but it is all very minor and background to the main duo, but again, it does illustrate who has the potential for getting their own story later. You need to read this book if you're looking for a fluffy and spicy break in your reading. It will break any reading slumps with how easy it is to fall into the story. I am literally so excited for more in this series and see myself begging to be kept on the ARC team.
This book is what grumpy sunshine, light hearted books are made of!
this was absolutely a breezy 5⭐ read for me. South of the Skyway is a contemporary romance story with spice and the spice starts out pretty quickly. Let me hit you with the tropes.
Age gap
Black cat & golden retriever style grumpy/sunshine
Found family
He falls first
One night stand romance
Can I just say I want to be Brexley? she is our FMC, who for the past five years has been building a booming romance bookstore slash coffee shop with her best friend Noel called the Cracked Corset. She is very much an introvert, while Noel is her extroverted ray of sunshine best friend and business partner. Once or twice a month Brexley goes out with her girl gang family to the bars, and this is where our love story starts. Enter our MMC Rhyett Rhodes. A golden retriever small town alaskan fisherman turned multi-business entrepreneur. He has come to Florida to set up his parents vacation home and expand to a new business, while out to scope out the local talents he spots our girl Brexley and is instantly sold. Neither of these two were looking for love, but fate seemed to have other plans.
Like I said before, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, with plenty of banter and rich backstories of the characters you could already get hints of how this world is going to expand into a series of stand alone's. This story really pulls the reader in with the feel good reads that really takes the characters on a journey of growth (Thank god for no third act break-up!). Rhyett is top tier book boyfriend material, he is patient, devoted, funny, good hearted, smart and the epitome of the type of guy you'd want to take home to your family. He is completely devoted to his family and has a wonderful relationship with them. I think I fell so hard into this story is because I saw a lot of myself in Brexley, the characters FEEL real.
The side characters are already starting to develop in this story, but it is all very minor and background to the main duo, but again, it does illustrate who has the potential for getting their own story later. You need to read this book if you're looking for a fluffy and spicy break in your reading. It will break any reading slumps with how easy it is to fall into the story. I am literally so excited for more in this series and see myself begging to be kept on the ARC team.
August 4, 2023
3.5⭐️
This is a one night stand turned friends with benefits turned relationship book. It was a good read with a lot of things I enjoyed.
The writing was beautifully done. I noticed throughout the book how descriptive the writing style was, so it really drew me into the story and the characters.
Our main girl, Brexley, is a book lover's girl's girl. She owns her own romance book store and also begins to pursue her dream of writing a book, which I loved. She definitely has some issues in trusting men, and it did annoy me a bit that she constantly felt like she cant be a business owner and also be in a relationship. I understand her initial hesitation but it kept up throughout the book for no reason so it was frustrating.
Our main guy, Rhyett, is a top-notch golden retriever boyfriend. He falls immediately for Brexley but is older and wise enough to see that Brex scares easily, so he lets her set the pace for their... situation. He's also an absolute family man, a savvy business owner, and a delightfully dirty talker.
For me, I was captured by the story until about halfway. And then it didn't really feel like a whole lot happened. A lot of Brex and Rhyett are intimate, and then Brex tries to push him away, repeat. I wanted more drama, more plot, and more something for the second half of the book. We do get some big events right at the end
.. but they felt very rushed and gave me whiplash.
Also, Rhyett comes from a family of 12 kids. Who he constantly talks about. Who makes an appearance. It's a LOT to keep track of... a family tree in the book would have been fantastic to have to refer to because you're like, who???
Overall, it was a good book. I will probably read the next one because based on the cliffhanger ending we got, I need to know what will happen.
I received an advance ebook copy, but the review is my own.
Tags: age gap, reverse grumpy sunshine, small town vibes, friends with benefits, book lovers, one night stand
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
First person/Dual POV
This is a one night stand turned friends with benefits turned relationship book. It was a good read with a lot of things I enjoyed.
The writing was beautifully done. I noticed throughout the book how descriptive the writing style was, so it really drew me into the story and the characters.
Our main girl, Brexley, is a book lover's girl's girl. She owns her own romance book store and also begins to pursue her dream of writing a book, which I loved. She definitely has some issues in trusting men, and it did annoy me a bit that she constantly felt like she cant be a business owner and also be in a relationship. I understand her initial hesitation but it kept up throughout the book for no reason so it was frustrating.
Our main guy, Rhyett, is a top-notch golden retriever boyfriend. He falls immediately for Brexley but is older and wise enough to see that Brex scares easily, so he lets her set the pace for their... situation. He's also an absolute family man, a savvy business owner, and a delightfully dirty talker.
For me, I was captured by the story until about halfway. And then it didn't really feel like a whole lot happened. A lot of Brex and Rhyett are intimate, and then Brex tries to push him away, repeat. I wanted more drama, more plot, and more something for the second half of the book. We do get some big events right at the end
.. but they felt very rushed and gave me whiplash.
Also, Rhyett comes from a family of 12 kids. Who he constantly talks about. Who makes an appearance. It's a LOT to keep track of... a family tree in the book would have been fantastic to have to refer to because you're like, who???
Overall, it was a good book. I will probably read the next one because based on the cliffhanger ending we got, I need to know what will happen.
I received an advance ebook copy, but the review is my own.
Tags: age gap, reverse grumpy sunshine, small town vibes, friends with benefits, book lovers, one night stand
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
First person/Dual POV
August 13, 2023
1st and foremost, I want to thank Sydne for having me on her ARC team for this book.
Cw: this is an Adult contemporary romance novel, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone younger than 19 due to explicit sexual scenes and adult content.
Tropes:
-Age Gap
-Insta lust
-reverse grumpy/sunshine
-He falls 1st
-Found Family
Spice level: 4/5 🌶
Now with that out of the way, I gotta hand it to Sydne Barnett, she can truly write an immersive and absolutely addicting contemp romance. I was completely hooked from the 1st page that I even lost sleep trying to finish this book.
We follow Brexley, our FMC that runs a pretty successful bookstore/café. She's been on a streak of living her life on the safe side, but on one fateful day, she tries to live life on the edge a little. So she agrees to go out with her friends to their local pub, where in enters out MMC, Rhyett, who is a successful entrepreneur and new to town. He instantly spots Brex and sparks fly. So much so that we are blessed with our first smut scene relatively quickly. But what Brex thought was a one-time thing ended up being more, because fate just continues to push these two lovebirds together with each turn.
I loved everything about this book, and this is comming from someone who isn't a contemporary romance reader. But the characters were just so well written and relatable, that you just can't help but root for them every step of the way. I absolutely loved the insta lust in this book too. You get a really good amount of smut but not to the point that it takes from the integrity of the storyline. Not to mention it is set in Tampa, Florida. As a native Floridian, I caught a lot of inside jokes and like things that we always say here (i.e. If there is water, there is definitely a gator in it). That small aspect really made me connect more with the book, its characters and their setting.
Can't wait for the next one!
Cw: this is an Adult contemporary romance novel, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone younger than 19 due to explicit sexual scenes and adult content.
Tropes:
-Age Gap
-Insta lust
-reverse grumpy/sunshine
-He falls 1st
-Found Family
Spice level: 4/5 🌶
Now with that out of the way, I gotta hand it to Sydne Barnett, she can truly write an immersive and absolutely addicting contemp romance. I was completely hooked from the 1st page that I even lost sleep trying to finish this book.
We follow Brexley, our FMC that runs a pretty successful bookstore/café. She's been on a streak of living her life on the safe side, but on one fateful day, she tries to live life on the edge a little. So she agrees to go out with her friends to their local pub, where in enters out MMC, Rhyett, who is a successful entrepreneur and new to town. He instantly spots Brex and sparks fly. So much so that we are blessed with our first smut scene relatively quickly. But what Brex thought was a one-time thing ended up being more, because fate just continues to push these two lovebirds together with each turn.
I loved everything about this book, and this is comming from someone who isn't a contemporary romance reader. But the characters were just so well written and relatable, that you just can't help but root for them every step of the way. I absolutely loved the insta lust in this book too. You get a really good amount of smut but not to the point that it takes from the integrity of the storyline. Not to mention it is set in Tampa, Florida. As a native Floridian, I caught a lot of inside jokes and like things that we always say here (i.e. If there is water, there is definitely a gator in it). That small aspect really made me connect more with the book, its characters and their setting.
Can't wait for the next one!
November 22, 2023
First and foremost thank you @barnettbooktalk for providing me with an arc of this book in exchange of an honest review. This book comes out tomorrow august 4th.
This book was a fun ride and I quite enjoyed my time with it. It was funny, lighthearted, a bit emotional too and at times when it came to our FMC it felt a bit to close to home in some aspects. In this book we follow Rhyett and Brexley, we have reverse grumpy/sunshine, age gap, one night stand, we have big family, wonderful friend group, a FMC who owns a bookstore with her best friend and a swoon worthy MMC who came to Florida from Alaska to put up a business and built a retirement home for his parents, Rhyett and Brexley meet at a bar and fate keeps putting them in each other’s paths. I quite enjoyed the progression of their relationship and how Rhyett truly saw all of Brexley and was patient with her and understanding and how he loved her and made her feel safe 🥹 (I could ramble on about this man for ages so I’m keeping it short, go read the book and find more about this treasure of a man) And how Brexley in the end realized she wanted Rhyett and wanted to fight for him, little by little right there she chose to put up the first step in letting go and embracing this new relationship despite those fears. I will admit she did frustrated me a bit at times but I think the fact that she was flawed and felt human made her real to me and I loved that, I do wish though we would’ve been able to dive into her past a bit deeper. Overall this book was lovely and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series, I’m beyond excited about it and I cannot wait to see more of Noel and get to know her more and see her relationship with a certain Rhodes… Jameson… 👀 So please pick up this book tomorrow when it comes out and I hope you enjoy it too, it truly is worth the read.
This book was a fun ride and I quite enjoyed my time with it. It was funny, lighthearted, a bit emotional too and at times when it came to our FMC it felt a bit to close to home in some aspects. In this book we follow Rhyett and Brexley, we have reverse grumpy/sunshine, age gap, one night stand, we have big family, wonderful friend group, a FMC who owns a bookstore with her best friend and a swoon worthy MMC who came to Florida from Alaska to put up a business and built a retirement home for his parents, Rhyett and Brexley meet at a bar and fate keeps putting them in each other’s paths. I quite enjoyed the progression of their relationship and how Rhyett truly saw all of Brexley and was patient with her and understanding and how he loved her and made her feel safe 🥹 (I could ramble on about this man for ages so I’m keeping it short, go read the book and find more about this treasure of a man) And how Brexley in the end realized she wanted Rhyett and wanted to fight for him, little by little right there she chose to put up the first step in letting go and embracing this new relationship despite those fears. I will admit she did frustrated me a bit at times but I think the fact that she was flawed and felt human made her real to me and I loved that, I do wish though we would’ve been able to dive into her past a bit deeper. Overall this book was lovely and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series, I’m beyond excited about it and I cannot wait to see more of Noel and get to know her more and see her relationship with a certain Rhodes… Jameson… 👀 So please pick up this book tomorrow when it comes out and I hope you enjoy it too, it truly is worth the read.
August 7, 2023
Here’s a lovely, witty and spicy reverse grumpy/sunshine romance.
Brexley, a successful business owner and book girlie (one of us!), is an introvert and so independant she doesn’t know what true love and found family mean other than her best friend and her dog. When said true love and found family shows up, she doesn’t know what to do. Her walls are up but that doesn’t deter Rhyett. Our golden retriever will charm the black cat, whether she thinks she deserves it or not.
I gave it a four simply because I thought the pace a bit odd - the tension only truly rises at the very end, the plot could be denser earlier on, and instead we get a lot of chapters with « too much information » that can make it hard to follow all the characters and what is going on. HOWEVER, it is also the start to a long inter-connected series of standalones so while it took me the entire book to truly grasp the dynamics in the Rhodes family, I believe it was also necessary to set it all up for what comes next.
It is also a one-night-stand that turns into a relationship. I am WAY more used to reading slowburns which could also be why my own perception of the pacing is warped.
I laughed a fair few times out loud, fanned myself at the smut scenes (dear lord Rhyett!), and absolutely adored some of the secondary characters like Noel and our beloved dog: Royal! What a good girl. I too would go crazy for bunnies.
I am HEAVILY invested in what happens next. Is there something between Elora and Broderick (rivals to lovers???)? Will Vallie and Wrenly end up together?? IS NOEL, OUR DESIGNATED EXTROVERT, GOING TO GET HER WELL-DESERVED HAPPY EVER AFTER WITH A RHODES?? I need to know and am excited for this series to continue !
Brexley, a successful business owner and book girlie (one of us!), is an introvert and so independant she doesn’t know what true love and found family mean other than her best friend and her dog. When said true love and found family shows up, she doesn’t know what to do. Her walls are up but that doesn’t deter Rhyett. Our golden retriever will charm the black cat, whether she thinks she deserves it or not.
I gave it a four simply because I thought the pace a bit odd - the tension only truly rises at the very end, the plot could be denser earlier on, and instead we get a lot of chapters with « too much information » that can make it hard to follow all the characters and what is going on. HOWEVER, it is also the start to a long inter-connected series of standalones so while it took me the entire book to truly grasp the dynamics in the Rhodes family, I believe it was also necessary to set it all up for what comes next.
It is also a one-night-stand that turns into a relationship. I am WAY more used to reading slowburns which could also be why my own perception of the pacing is warped.
I laughed a fair few times out loud, fanned myself at the smut scenes (dear lord Rhyett!), and absolutely adored some of the secondary characters like Noel and our beloved dog: Royal! What a good girl. I too would go crazy for bunnies.
I am HEAVILY invested in what happens next. Is there something between Elora and Broderick (rivals to lovers???)? Will Vallie and Wrenly end up together?? IS NOEL, OUR DESIGNATED EXTROVERT, GOING TO GET HER WELL-DESERVED HAPPY EVER AFTER WITH A RHODES?? I need to know and am excited for this series to continue !
August 7, 2023
very invested in this family
This is an age gap, one night stand romance where the guy falls first and WAY harder. Rhyett is a fisherman from Alaska that moves to Tampa to build a house for his older parents that are about to retire and snowbird. At the same time, he’s renovating an older building for a speakeasy as a side gig, and it just so happens to be across the street from Brexley’s book store. They both go out to a bar one night, and after making googly eyes at each other and playing darts, they have a go of it in the bar bathroom. Afterwards, Rhyett is ready to marry Brexley, but she brushes him off. Well, they keep running into each other, and one thing leads to another, and of course, they fall in love.
This book was just okay to me. I felt like a gen Z-er wrote it, or someone trying to sound cool to gen Z. I understand the way Brexley spoke was supposed to show the 10 year age gap between them, but it was hard to read for me. Some of the phrases were super immature and sounded more like a teenager than a mid-20s girl with an “old soul”. I liked the plot and characters, it just wasn’t really for me. I think maybe if I was listening to it, it would have been better. For me, the best part was Rhyett’s relationship with his 11 siblings (and 12th best friend/adoptive sibling). I would read a whole book about their crazy dynamic and growing up in their house. I also liked Brexley’s relationship with Noel. Every girl needs a ride or die like Noel. The ending was cute (no third act breakup!), and I thought it wrapped up the story well. I might try to read this again at a later date, when the second book comes out, because I’m pretty invested in Noel.
This is an age gap, one night stand romance where the guy falls first and WAY harder. Rhyett is a fisherman from Alaska that moves to Tampa to build a house for his older parents that are about to retire and snowbird. At the same time, he’s renovating an older building for a speakeasy as a side gig, and it just so happens to be across the street from Brexley’s book store. They both go out to a bar one night, and after making googly eyes at each other and playing darts, they have a go of it in the bar bathroom. Afterwards, Rhyett is ready to marry Brexley, but she brushes him off. Well, they keep running into each other, and one thing leads to another, and of course, they fall in love.
This book was just okay to me. I felt like a gen Z-er wrote it, or someone trying to sound cool to gen Z. I understand the way Brexley spoke was supposed to show the 10 year age gap between them, but it was hard to read for me. Some of the phrases were super immature and sounded more like a teenager than a mid-20s girl with an “old soul”. I liked the plot and characters, it just wasn’t really for me. I think maybe if I was listening to it, it would have been better. For me, the best part was Rhyett’s relationship with his 11 siblings (and 12th best friend/adoptive sibling). I would read a whole book about their crazy dynamic and growing up in their house. I also liked Brexley’s relationship with Noel. Every girl needs a ride or die like Noel. The ending was cute (no third act breakup!), and I thought it wrapped up the story well. I might try to read this again at a later date, when the second book comes out, because I’m pretty invested in Noel.
April 17, 2024
”I wasn’t looking for someone I wanted to do life with. Bad boss bitches didn’t need a man to complete them. But oh my god, this man.”
4.25 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️
Oh what a swoon worthy romance, I will happily take Mr. Rhyett Rhodes signed, sealed, and delivered directly to my doorstep 🥵 He is the definition of a Golden Retriever MMC, yummy in all aspects. He’s attentive, friendly, loving, supportive, family man, successful entrepreneur, and good with his hands, ya know with all the remodels and builds. Cough cough 😉 Brexley, our fierce, hyper-independent, introvert, who is also a successful entrepreneur, living all our bookworm dreams running / owning a bookstore 😍 I truly loved the story, the plot the romance, no miscommunication trope, thank God! But my favorite was the characters, they were all so wonderfully crafted and brought a beautiful dynamic to the story. One of my favorite aspects of a story is character growth, and I found Brexley’s to be so sweet and the cherry on top to this story along with the role that Rhyett played in it 😍
A couple things that didn’t land with me, the timeline for one was a hard to follow. Which really isn’t a huge deal, but was a tad distracting for me. Though the writing was good, it sometimes felt like the author was trying to hard to achieve this beautiful, descriptive, style of proses - but it actually interrupted the flow of the story and caused some confusion and need to re-read paragraphs to understand what’s going on.
Overall, enjoyable read. If you age gap, reverse grumpy-sunshine, and one night stand romance with one help of a golden retriever MMC 🤤 - then I would recommend this book to you.
4.25 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️
Oh what a swoon worthy romance, I will happily take Mr. Rhyett Rhodes signed, sealed, and delivered directly to my doorstep 🥵 He is the definition of a Golden Retriever MMC, yummy in all aspects. He’s attentive, friendly, loving, supportive, family man, successful entrepreneur, and good with his hands, ya know with all the remodels and builds. Cough cough 😉 Brexley, our fierce, hyper-independent, introvert, who is also a successful entrepreneur, living all our bookworm dreams running / owning a bookstore 😍 I truly loved the story, the plot the romance, no miscommunication trope, thank God! But my favorite was the characters, they were all so wonderfully crafted and brought a beautiful dynamic to the story. One of my favorite aspects of a story is character growth, and I found Brexley’s to be so sweet and the cherry on top to this story along with the role that Rhyett played in it 😍
A couple things that didn’t land with me, the timeline for one was a hard to follow. Which really isn’t a huge deal, but was a tad distracting for me. Though the writing was good, it sometimes felt like the author was trying to hard to achieve this beautiful, descriptive, style of proses - but it actually interrupted the flow of the story and caused some confusion and need to re-read paragraphs to understand what’s going on.
Overall, enjoyable read. If you age gap, reverse grumpy-sunshine, and one night stand romance with one help of a golden retriever MMC 🤤 - then I would recommend this book to you.
August 3, 2023
I think everyone in their life could use a Rhodes. Honestly. I’m horrible with reviews (especially on my bookstagram) but I’m gonna do my best cause this book deserves it.
I didn’t want to put this down. Ever. I forgot I was reading when I was in Brexley and Rhyett’s story. Their voices and world is so compelling. This book made me laugh and squeal and cry and smile more than I have with a book in a while.
Brexley is honestly living my dream. Owning a bookstore cafe with a store dog?!?!! Come on, that’s my absolute dream. I love her for thinking she wouldn’t fall in love with Rhyett. Girl, really? You didn’t think you’d fall for that tall drink of water? Supportive, sexy, funny, comes up with dates all on his own, good with your friends and dog, works with his hands…… the list goes on!
Rhyett is an absolute dreamboat and he comes from a huge family. I’d be as intimidated by that as Brex was honestly, I’m an introvert like her. Rhy knows what he wants and he’s not afraid to go after it. And what he wants is Brex. He lets her have the reigns but he keeps one hand on them too so she doesn’t detour herself too far from their mutual destination.
I knew something weird was going on with he-who-I-won’t-name-cause-I-don’t-want-to-spoil-things from the get go. I could smell it as someone who was unfortunately in that sort of scenario in the past. I know the best will happen for Noel in the near future (I’m a psychic, I can sense these things). She deserves it.
I can’t wait for the next book and I’m excited to see what’s in store for this massive cast of characters.
I didn’t want to put this down. Ever. I forgot I was reading when I was in Brexley and Rhyett’s story. Their voices and world is so compelling. This book made me laugh and squeal and cry and smile more than I have with a book in a while.
Brexley is honestly living my dream. Owning a bookstore cafe with a store dog?!?!! Come on, that’s my absolute dream. I love her for thinking she wouldn’t fall in love with Rhyett. Girl, really? You didn’t think you’d fall for that tall drink of water? Supportive, sexy, funny, comes up with dates all on his own, good with your friends and dog, works with his hands…… the list goes on!
Rhyett is an absolute dreamboat and he comes from a huge family. I’d be as intimidated by that as Brex was honestly, I’m an introvert like her. Rhy knows what he wants and he’s not afraid to go after it. And what he wants is Brex. He lets her have the reigns but he keeps one hand on them too so she doesn’t detour herself too far from their mutual destination.
I knew something weird was going on with he-who-I-won’t-name-cause-I-don’t-want-to-spoil-things from the get go. I could smell it as someone who was unfortunately in that sort of scenario in the past. I know the best will happen for Noel in the near future (I’m a psychic, I can sense these things). She deserves it.
I can’t wait for the next book and I’m excited to see what’s in store for this massive cast of characters.
August 4, 2023
I received an advanced reader copy of this awesome smutty romance book, and I must say, it was really good.
The main tropes were: age gap (10 years), grumpy/sunshine, found family, instalove, males characters falling in love before female characters, and one night stand romance.
I loved Rhyett the MMC and his perfect personality. He was sweet, patient, devote, funny, good hearted, smart, hot asf, tattooed, tall, and I seriously like that, but sometimes he didn't seem real. I mean a man can’t be that perfect.
On the other hand, Brex the MFC was a more real character. She was a bit introvert, but she was also strong, sweet, and a bit grumpy.
She was an entrepreneur with her own bookstore and a Cafe (that's the dream of every reader, including myself).
I loved the chemistry between them. It was HOT and dynamic, which makes the perfect relationship.
Also, the banter was so hilarious. Rhyett asks for Brexly to do that thing all book girlies want from they boyfriend...if you know you know...😏.
In addition, the side characters were amazing too. The way they interacted with the main characters was on point.
Spoiler: To be honest I knew something awfull was going to happen from the beginning, and I'm so thankful that we are going to have more books in this series, cuz the characters deserve so much more.
So I highly recommend this book, because you are going to laugh, fall in love and sweat with the spicy scenes.
The main tropes were: age gap (10 years), grumpy/sunshine, found family, instalove, males characters falling in love before female characters, and one night stand romance.
I loved Rhyett the MMC and his perfect personality. He was sweet, patient, devote, funny, good hearted, smart, hot asf, tattooed, tall, and I seriously like that, but sometimes he didn't seem real. I mean a man can’t be that perfect.
On the other hand, Brex the MFC was a more real character. She was a bit introvert, but she was also strong, sweet, and a bit grumpy.
She was an entrepreneur with her own bookstore and a Cafe (that's the dream of every reader, including myself).
I loved the chemistry between them. It was HOT and dynamic, which makes the perfect relationship.
Also, the banter was so hilarious. Rhyett asks for Brexly to do that thing all book girlies want from they boyfriend...if you know you know...😏.
In addition, the side characters were amazing too. The way they interacted with the main characters was on point.
Spoiler: To be honest I knew something awfull was going to happen from the beginning, and I'm so thankful that we are going to have more books in this series, cuz the characters deserve so much more.
So I highly recommend this book, because you are going to laugh, fall in love and sweat with the spicy scenes.
August 4, 2023
South of the Skyway by Sydne Barnett was such a heartwarming read in between fantasy books!
A one night stand turning into the love that was never supposed to happen. I really connected with Brexley- a Florida based smutty bookshop owner, who never really knew what love was, and didn’t want to waste anymore time trying to find it. Brexley falls into the… lap of a super handsome Rhyett Rhodes who wants nothing but to take care of her both in and out of bed. Rhyett is such a gentleman, but a pleasure dom in the sheets 🥵 We can’t forget about the rabbit adopting golden retriever either!
There wasn’t much drama in this book until the end, which made it a very light-hearted, feel good read, with plenty of banter and laughter. This book is a standalone, but can also be read as part of an interconnected Rhodes family read, and seeing that our FMC’s best friend falls in love with a Rhodes brother as well, I can’t wait for the next book!
Favorite Quote:
“Behind these closed doors, there’s no shame in anything that you want. Do you understand me?” - Rhyett Rhodes
Tropes:
⭐️ Reverse grumpy-sunshine
⭐️ Age gap
⭐️ Found Family
⭐️ One night stand
⭐️ He falls first
Thank You so much Sydne for giving me the chance to read South of the Skyway for you! I loved this book, and am looking forward to the next! 🤩
A one night stand turning into the love that was never supposed to happen. I really connected with Brexley- a Florida based smutty bookshop owner, who never really knew what love was, and didn’t want to waste anymore time trying to find it. Brexley falls into the… lap of a super handsome Rhyett Rhodes who wants nothing but to take care of her both in and out of bed. Rhyett is such a gentleman, but a pleasure dom in the sheets 🥵 We can’t forget about the rabbit adopting golden retriever either!
There wasn’t much drama in this book until the end, which made it a very light-hearted, feel good read, with plenty of banter and laughter. This book is a standalone, but can also be read as part of an interconnected Rhodes family read, and seeing that our FMC’s best friend falls in love with a Rhodes brother as well, I can’t wait for the next book!
Favorite Quote:
“Behind these closed doors, there’s no shame in anything that you want. Do you understand me?” - Rhyett Rhodes
Tropes:
⭐️ Reverse grumpy-sunshine
⭐️ Age gap
⭐️ Found Family
⭐️ One night stand
⭐️ He falls first
Thank You so much Sydne for giving me the chance to read South of the Skyway for you! I loved this book, and am looking forward to the next! 🤩
August 6, 2023
I absolutely adored this book. What a heartwarming story. If you love a good reverse grumpy sunshine and he falls first, then give South of the Skyway a chance. You won't regret it one bit.
Brexley is a young entrepreneur with her best friend Noel running a book store/cafe. She is fiercely independent and strong-willed but used to being on her own and alone. Rhyett is a decade old entrepreneur from out of state who is on a task to build a place for his parents and big family in sunny Florida, but also his own business too. He is a sweet, caring man who is extremely loyal to the ones he cares about, including his large, bustling family. After a chance meeting at a bar, Brex and Rhy find themselves in a one night stand, but fate has other ideas. When does a one night stand become more?
South of the Skyway is a relatable and realistic story with wonderful character depth and growth throughout. I love the side characters as much as the main characters. I hope we see more of them and learn their stories. The banter between both the MCs and the other characters had me rolling in laughter. The spicy and steam.. oh my. Let's just say, enjoy 😉. The plot twists were believable. The ending left me needing more, but I can't wait for the next book. I'll definitely be rereading this.
Brexley is a young entrepreneur with her best friend Noel running a book store/cafe. She is fiercely independent and strong-willed but used to being on her own and alone. Rhyett is a decade old entrepreneur from out of state who is on a task to build a place for his parents and big family in sunny Florida, but also his own business too. He is a sweet, caring man who is extremely loyal to the ones he cares about, including his large, bustling family. After a chance meeting at a bar, Brex and Rhy find themselves in a one night stand, but fate has other ideas. When does a one night stand become more?
South of the Skyway is a relatable and realistic story with wonderful character depth and growth throughout. I love the side characters as much as the main characters. I hope we see more of them and learn their stories. The banter between both the MCs and the other characters had me rolling in laughter. The spicy and steam.. oh my. Let's just say, enjoy 😉. The plot twists were believable. The ending left me needing more, but I can't wait for the next book. I'll definitely be rereading this.
July 31, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Gave this book 4 stars. I really enjoyed this romance book. Some of the tropes:
Found Family
Age Gap
Small town Romance
Rhyett our MMC is a ray of sunshine and seems to draw luck his way, is looking to expand his businesses. He ends up in a small town in Florida. While doing recon on some of the local businesses he walks into a bar and instantly spots our FMC Brexley.
FMC Brexley has lived in this small town in Florida all her life. She is a book store owner who also has given up her ambitions of being an author. Brexley was also abandoned by both parents so she does not trust or let people in. She seems to think nothing can ever be right in the universe without some bad happening first.
When the two collide it is fast and unexpected. The chemistry between the main characters is amazing.
The supporting characters are great. You can instantly tell which characters will be getting their time to shine in their own book that will be part of this series. I would definitely recommend this book if your looking for a romance that is both fluffy and spicy at the same time. Will definitely read more of this series.
🌶️🌶️
Gave this book 4 stars. I really enjoyed this romance book. Some of the tropes:
Found Family
Age Gap
Small town Romance
Rhyett our MMC is a ray of sunshine and seems to draw luck his way, is looking to expand his businesses. He ends up in a small town in Florida. While doing recon on some of the local businesses he walks into a bar and instantly spots our FMC Brexley.
FMC Brexley has lived in this small town in Florida all her life. She is a book store owner who also has given up her ambitions of being an author. Brexley was also abandoned by both parents so she does not trust or let people in. She seems to think nothing can ever be right in the universe without some bad happening first.
When the two collide it is fast and unexpected. The chemistry between the main characters is amazing.
The supporting characters are great. You can instantly tell which characters will be getting their time to shine in their own book that will be part of this series. I would definitely recommend this book if your looking for a romance that is both fluffy and spicy at the same time. Will definitely read more of this series.
August 5, 2023
Rhyett and Brexley
Reverse grumpy x sunshine
Age gap
One nightly stand
I loved this story!!
Brexley is a bookstore/ cafe owner in Florida and who has a retriever Royal who is the cutest doggie. Rhyett is an Alaskan guy who is moving to Florida to be close to his family who is building there. He comes from a family of 11 siblings and both parents are still together ❣️
Brex wasn’t looking for love but she ended up finding a sexy one night stand while on a girls night. They had instant chemistry but she told Rhyett that if they were meant to spend more time together they would meet again (without giving him her phone number).
As fate would have it they meet again the next day, TWICE. She isn’t into having a relationship and can do friends with benefits…. Rhyett said he’s ok with that if that’s all he could get from her… he is such a great guy! Caring loving and always putting her first! Ultimate book boyfriend 🖤
Can’t wait for the next book in this series, I already know it’s gonna be great!!
Reverse grumpy x sunshine
Age gap
One nightly stand
I loved this story!!
Brexley is a bookstore/ cafe owner in Florida and who has a retriever Royal who is the cutest doggie. Rhyett is an Alaskan guy who is moving to Florida to be close to his family who is building there. He comes from a family of 11 siblings and both parents are still together ❣️
Brex wasn’t looking for love but she ended up finding a sexy one night stand while on a girls night. They had instant chemistry but she told Rhyett that if they were meant to spend more time together they would meet again (without giving him her phone number).
As fate would have it they meet again the next day, TWICE. She isn’t into having a relationship and can do friends with benefits…. Rhyett said he’s ok with that if that’s all he could get from her… he is such a great guy! Caring loving and always putting her first! Ultimate book boyfriend 🖤
Can’t wait for the next book in this series, I already know it’s gonna be great!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews