Single Dad, Second Chance, Soulmates, Friends To Lovers
When life gives you lemons, make limoncello.
Colt's eyes are exactly the same—amber-rimmed in green and electric—as they take me like he did fourteen years ago. We share this moment as if it's before there was heart-shattering honor, duty, doing the right thing and leaving us both broken. Time, distance, and pain all evaporate in this moment. I was beginning to feel like Under The Tuscan Sun and Beach Music lied to me, but Italy might actually be magic. Neither of us should logically be here, but here we are, trapped in each other's gaze in the middle of Tuscany.
My mother remarked, "Maggie, you're being ridiculous, a country can’t heal a broken heart."
But what’s really messed up is that even though my husband left me for our mixed doubles pickleball partners, my heart’s not broken. It was never whole enough to give it to my ex-husband because it never healed from when Colt had to marry someone else.
Now I'm sitting here in a falling-apart Tuscan villa with a way overabundant lemon grove and a possible mongoose living in the walls, terrified of all I left behind, clutching at the tatters of tomorrow, but I can't stop smiling. Maybe, finally, I'm allowed to fully open my heart for the first time since he had to marry someone else. Now it's my turn. Maybe this time, I'll get to love him forever. Maybe healing a broken heart means getting a second chance. Or maybe I'm meant to remain shattered. I hope not.
The Boston Brothers: A Second Chance series are interconnected standalone stories featuring the lives and loves of six guys who are either brothers or brothers from another mother and the women they were lucky enough to find, screw it up and then find again.
I used to create "dreams" with my best friend growing up. We'd each pick a boy we liked, then we'd write down a meet-cute that always ended with a happily ever after.
Now I get to dream every day, although it's a little steamier these days. And I've discovered I can and will write anywhere I can. Keep tuned to Instagram to see all the times I fit in a sentence or two.
I'm a writer, married to a writer, mother of a creative dynamo of a nine-year-old boy and currently a little sleepy. I'm a klutz and goofball and love lipstick as much as my Chuck Taylors.
Good things in the world: pepperoni pizza, Flair pens*, wine, coffee, laughing with my friends until my stomach hurts, a musician at the top of their game, getting lost somewhere I've never been, matinee movies on a weekday, the Chicago Cubs, a fresh new notebook full of possibilities, bourbon on a cold night, Fantasy Football, witty men, walking through the local zoo in the rain and that moment when a character clicks in and begins to write their own adventure. I'm just the pen.
Maggie and Colt were definitely meant to be together from the first time they met- and let me tell you, their story is a wild ride! This book goes through all the stages from first time, young love all the way to their happily ever after and everything in between. There are so many emotions and nostalgic feelings you get while reading this book that you become fully immersed in their stories. It helps you connect to them on a personal level and you can’t help but root for them with everything in you. I love the subtle nods to the movie Under the Tuscan Sun. I love that movie so this was very much right up my alley! There was quite a few comedy moments that really had me laughing- between the “mongoose”, the bats, Slygirl, the Pickleball situation and many more!
I really enjoyed this book overall but had a hard time with the first 1/3 of the book- there were a lot of scatter brained, disconnect moments that didn’t make sense and seemed like maybe words/sentences might be missing. It had me reading parts over and over again. I am not sure if they were intended to be that way or not but once I got past the 1/3 way mark it was better and more connected. (since Maggie seems like she might be a bit ADHD it is very possible it was intentional but it definitely had me confused for a while.)
I do wish we would have had some snippets of things between Colt and Gemma to see what their relationship was like during their time and how Sloan was a product of that. I know the story isn’t about their life together-I just wanted more of it to get the full effect, you know?
I received this book as an ARC and a first time reader of Kelly Kay and was so glad to receive it! Thank you to her and her team! I immediately picked up reading the first book of the series and plan to continue reading the whole series!
Kelly has shown us exactly what to do when life gives you lemons, you grab her book and a glass of limoncello and have an awesome afternoon.
This is a story that is going to grab you and not let you go as you travel throughout Maggie & Colton’s love story. Kelly has taken this second chance romance, and given us so much more, from the streets of Paris to the cobblestone piazzas of Italy, she has written such a visual story you are going to be walking on those cobblestones and smelling the lemon trees.
This story is going to make you smile, it’s going to make you laugh, and it’s definitely going to make you blush. I didn’t want this one to end. I simply love how Kelly writes, she loves these characters, she cares what happens to them and you feel it when you read her words.
Keep Tuscany is a standalone, but there are books for the rest of the Boston Brothers so for the best experience I suggest you start at Keep Paris and enjoy the ride.
ARC Book Review Keep Tuscany A Novel Written By Kelly Kay Fiction - Romance Published August 26, 2024 400 Pages ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the third book in the author’s Boston Brothers Series. It can be read as a standalone book.
Colton Andrews and Maggie Curran are two people who belong together. They became soulmates when they first met in Paris studying abroad their senior year of high school. Unfortunate circumstances and family responsibilities have kept them apart for almost 14 years. Interestingly, pickleball changes everything in their relationship. Not in the way you are probably thinking.
The author’s writing takes you through several different emotions as you read Colt and Maggie’s love story. Some parts made me sad. Others made me angry. Many parts of the story had me laughing. Colt’s six year daughter, Sloane, was a hoot!
Both main characters showed much growth and maturity as they aged and lived their lives. Both learned that you are never too old to change the path of your life.
“The boy I was in love with is still there, but the hard lines and cut jaw of the man in front of me is like my reward for waiting.”
What an emotional second chance romance! This was my first Kelly Kay book and I look forward to reading more! Part 1 broke my heart and Kelly finally pieced it backed together. Colt and Maggie were soul mates forced apart by duty and life. When the stars align and they’re both single 13 years later, their second meet cute was perfection! They never stopped loving each other and watching them rekindle their romance while dealing with kids and life was cathartic. Kelly had the kids cock blocking so much I had to dm her and tell her how frustrated I was LOL!
This series takes the second-chance romance trope and basically dials it up to eleven, each parallel story adding a layer to the ones before. However, this is a different kind of roller coaster from its predecessors: less overt drama and more nuanced actions from the main characters, whose ups and downs are inflicted on them in a heartwrenching manner. Colt and Maggie fall in love as teens and then have their choices taken away from them through the necessity or desire to please others, and their tale is told with realism, emotion and the author’s trademark captivating style. I particularly liked how sunshiny Maggie (the literal embodiment of “when life gives you lemons”) learns to fight for what she wants, and the descriptions of the Tuscan background are wonderful. The friendship group is once again depicted in all its loving and hilarious chaos, and to top it all off, there’s a lovely little Easter egg in the epilogue that ties in another of the author’s books. Loved it, and I’m now off to read Keep Paris all over again. Thanks to the author for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
"Keep Tuscany" is a breathtaking second-chance romance that sweeps you off your feet and transports you from the romantic streets of Paris to the charming, sun-kissed villages of Tuscany. The story of Colt and Maggie is not just about rekindled love; it's a journey through life's highs and lows, filled with heartbreak, joy, and discovery. Kelly Kay masterfully weaves their past and present, showing how their choices, circumstances, and desires shape their fates.
From the get-go, it's clear that Maggie and Colt were meant to be together and watching them navigate their reunion is both exhilarating and emotional. The story dives deep into their histories, pulling on the heartstrings with every flashback and shared memory. The journey is full of surprises — from comedic mishaps with animals to unexpected encounters in the most picturesque Tuscan settings. Kay's vivid descriptions make you feel the warmth of the Italian sun, smell the fresh lemons, and hear the laughter of friends old and new.
What sets "Keep Tuscany" apart is its nuanced exploration of its characters. Maggie's evolution from a woman trying to please everyone to one who fights for her own happiness is inspiring. Colt, too, grows in his understanding of love and life, learning from past mistakes and rediscovering what truly matters. Their love story isn't just romantic — it’s realistic, raw, and heartfelt, highlighting the complexities of love and the courage it takes to rebuild it.
The author's signature style is evident in her ability to blend humor, emotion, and a touch of spice, making for a truly engaging read. And if you're a fan of the author's previous works, there are delightful Easter eggs and nods to other beloved characters that tie everything together beautifully.
"Keep Tuscany" is a delightful read that will leave you smiling, laughing, and longing for your own Tuscan adventure. It's a beautiful reminder that even when life doesn't go as planned, there's always room for a happy ending.
-bookishfrag
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Best book yet!! I absolutely adore Colt & Maggie's love story. There is nearly a lifetime of heartache and longing, but the final destination was worth the journey.
The flashback to how these two meet in Paris is adorable, just like the other couples. It's fun to see certain group events from all sides. The way that these two split at the end of Paris was heartbreaking. More so than the other couples because it was the right choice at the time. There was no miscommunication; they fully agreed it was what was best.
The way Maggie ends up single & divorced blew my mind. First, I'll never look at pickleball the same, but also that weasel!! Ugh. Anyway, I enjoyed seeing Maggie take back her life and learn to love herself again.
The fact that these two reconnect by accident, a happy accident, one would say, was just so fun. I adored the way they explored Tuscany, themselves, and each other. Getting to know who they are NOW was critical.
Daisy & Sloane are absolutely adorable. I can't wait for the 2nd generation stories.
The mongoose & bat situation was hilarious. It was creepy AF, but it was also endearing. Maggie's commitment to keeping the critters living in her rental happy and safe says a lot about her character. The cooking class meet & greet was exactly how I wanted that to go as soon as rainbow leggings entered the room
Cheers to Kelly Kay and the magic that is Keep Tuscany. Kelly opened up my tear ducts, tickled my funny bone, and set my heart a-flutter with Maggie and Colt's story. Maggie and Colt were electric together, and their romance was filled with angst and humor that kept me captivated from beginning to end.
Both Maggie and Colt were such loveable characters. Maggie with her word vomit, which I related to and found endearing. She was the epitome of resilience, and I admired how she kept bouncing back. Maggie is definitely someone you want in your corner. Colt was bound by duty and so self-less, to his own detriment. His self-sacrifice was admirable, and my heart went out to him for the difficult choice he had to make. I can't put into words the nostalgia that had me choked up from the passing of time until Maggie and Colt got their second chance.
I loved the found family of "The Brothers" with the addition of their ladies. Their banter and antics added a layer of lightness to go with the other humourous moments that are sprinkled throughout the book.
Keep Tuscany was a delightful blend of angst, humor, and spice. I enjoyed being on Maggie and Colt's international journey to HEA, and the setting was perfection. If you enjoy second chance and single dad romances, this one is for you.
🇫🇷Maggie was in Paris at age 18, studying abroad for a semester, there with her best friend Mak and a group of girls. Colt was in the same situation, there with his group of best friends. When Tony randomly dials the numbers 666 on the room phone, his call is answered by Mak. The rest is history.
🔏Maggie and Colt were each the caretakers in their respective groups, and they both fell hard and fast for each other despite their age. But where they saw a future together, the universe had other plans.
📚I just adore Kelly Kay’s writing, there is always so much emotion, energy and a dose of spice. This next instalment in the brothers’ story feels a little less frenetic, as if the time that has passed makes both Colt and Maggie more considered in their thoughts and actions. They have both been badly hurt before and this time they will make sure of things. I loved the nods to found family that echo the author’s Carriage House series. I loved the Tuscan setting. Loved reading this special story 🐈⬛
Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author My rating 4.5/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫 Pub Date 26 Aug 2024
Not Without A Fight! Oh.My.Gosh! As Ms Kay says herself: a waterfall of words, you just get under and read until there are no more words left. Possible to read as a standalone book, but so much better reading the others first, knowing more about the other Boston Brothers and their ladies. All those books are so yummy: the highschool kids, meeting in Paris and falling in love, breaking up for all kinds of different reasons and getting a second chance at love a decade later. Wonderful characters, the Brothers: teasing, kidding, hot-blooded, crazy betting, and always having each other’s back. The strong-willed Sisters, always there in an emergency, with love and support. Heart-warming, good for lots of laughs and some tears, with tragedy and family drama, the book has it all. Really, really loved it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is one heck of an emotional roller coaster ride and I am very glad I got on.
Starts off engagingly sweet, funny and a little sexy then it breaks your heart. I cried.
Jump forward 12 years and you’re off on a long roundabout journey that fills in the story of the missing years and takes you forward to the conclusion. No spoilers here.
It is all done at a good pace the story never flags. I laughed, cried, got frustrated and thoroughly enjoyed it all.
The main characters really came to life and I felt emotionally invested in them. I do love when an author can do that.
This is book 3 of the Boston Brothers series which has interconnected characters. It works well as a standalone but I now want to know more about all the other characters stories.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Colt and Maggie meet in Paris when they are studying abroad, and you can tell they are meant to be. One day they are forced apart by things in life. Some years later they have a second chance meeting on accident, the accident lead them to be able to heal their hearts with one another they were one another’s perfect caretaker. While reading there is a definite roller coaster that you get taken on and I loved every minute of it. Colt and Maggie may be my favourite in the series thus far.
This is book 3 in Kay's Boston Brothers series but can easily be read as a standalone. Kay delivers time and time again and Keep Tuscany is no exception. A beautifully well written romance that will pull at all the emotions in this captivating second chance romance. Our main characters are Maggie and Colt and this book takes you thru their journey from fist meet to HEA and all the years (yes, years) and life's interferences that happened in-between. Sweet with heat, laughs and tears - this book has it all. I was enthralled with these characters as Kay's writing had me glued to my reader. I loved every minute of this book and can't wait for more!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Keep Tuscany"by Kelly Kay A poignant exploration of love, loss, and the yearning for second chances. Set against the romantic backdrop of Paris, it begins with a group of 18-year-olds studying. The story navigates the intensity of reconnecting with a past love and the heartache of missed opportunities. The novel beautifully captures the emotional rollercoaster of revisiting old flames and the bittersweet reflection on choices that shaped their lives. It's a deeply emotional read that delves into the complexities of youthful passion and the lingering effects of love that never truly fades. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is book #3 in the Boston Brothers series. This series is in the Kindle Unlimited program. This is the first book I have read in this series.
Can you imagine meeting your soulmate, but he breaks it off with you because (read the book to find out)? Your future is altered and now what are you gonna do? You have no choice, but to move on.
I absolutely love this book. when I started this book real life was kicking me down, but when I took the time to put everything aside and actually read the book, I fell in love with everything that this book had to offer now I need to go back and read the previous books and any other books in this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. Recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes! Read more from this author? Yes!
This profoundly emotional and reflective novel explores themes of love, loss, and the possibility of second chances, vividly portraying the intense feelings of reconnecting with a past love, where the agony of heartbreak and the weight of previous choices blend with the hope for a renewed future. It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy stories about the intricacies of love, the consequences of decisions, and the enduring hope for redemption and healing. This narrative will strike a chord with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet reality of love and loss.
This was my first time reading something by Kelly Kay but it won’t be my last. Colt and Maggie are star crossed lovers - taken away from each other and left heartbroken. Years later Maggie finds herself reeling again from betrayal and decides to go exploring. Fate steps in, in a clever way and I enjoyed the crazy situations Maggie found herself in. Suffice to say Colt and Maggie have a second chance at happiness but it won’t come easy. Now I want to go back and read the “brothers’” stories.
5 Star Review Keep Tuscany (Boston Brothers #3) by Kelly Kay
Kelly Kay is a relatively new author to me but what I have read I have enjoyed a Keep Tuscany was an entertaining, second chance at love story that ticked all the boxes for me.
This is Colt and story set in Italy which just added to my enjoyment. The writing was descriptive and I could easily see Tuscany in my mind whilst reading.
I loved this couple and quickly became invested in the story that Ms. Kay wove.
How I love thee. Let me count the ways. I love the continued story with the Brothers in this series. And I’m so glad we get Mak’s best friend’s story this time. Maggie was everything I expected her to be and more. Her character is lovable beyond words. Add in a single dad who you’ve loved since you first met and we have us a winner. I was interested to see how these two were gonna end up together and I was not disappointed.
Maggie & Colt: Book 3 of Boston Brothers: A second chance series: Interconnected standalone. Found family/ starting over/ second chance/ spicy RomCom: Kelly Kay has delivered a great addition to the series, and my favorite so far. Love the characters in this series. The friend group is the heart of this series, and it brings so many hilarious moments to this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a fun fast paced book. They fell in love instantly and it was super cute. It was sad that they had to separate but he got his girls out of it and they are special. I liked that Maggie got to know Daisy before she even knew that she was Colt's kid. They had really good chemistry and I had a good time.
Colt and Maggie were meant to be. They had an epic romance in Paris, but... there's always a but in a good second chance romance. And that's what this is. Good. Really good.
Kelly Kay is the queen when it comes to creating beautiful, quirky, and fun characters. They stick with you long after you've finished the book, and Maggie and Colt are no different.
I laughed our loud and felt heartache all the way to the tips of my fingers.
After reading this book, there are a few things I'll never think of the same: *Pickleball *Lemons and Limoncello *Bats *Mongoose
Love the love in this book! It's complicated and messy, delayed and denied, but love always finds a way! Maggie and Colt met during a study abroad near the end of HS and fell in insta-love. Often these types of stories can be cheesy and unbelievable but somehow their love worked and all made sense. Then comes their inevitable separation and they have to find their way back to each other. Each portion of their lives is told with depth and feeling. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Absolutely adored this book. The characters had many layers that made them real to me. I loved the banter between all the characters especially between the principal characters. Such an amazingly sweet story with the spice I love.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves a well written romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
H and h fall in love and yet he drops her fast as soon as his ex is pregnant. Marries ow to protect his dad's career. Does it right by everyone except h. Why must she always get the short end of the stick?
Self note - skip this second chance. h was never his priority or his first choice lol.
An amazing second-chance romance! So glad to be able to read about Maggie and Cole. This is the second book in the Boston Brothers series. Highly recommend this book! Love reading this love story!!! 💙💜
This was my first Kelly Kay book and it was not disappointing. Something about second chances in love makes me more involved in the story. Maggie and Colt are so cute and I love them together. The themes in this story definitely made me emotional and I love that Maggie dealt with everything so strong.