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Tempting Max: A Steamy Age-Gap Contemporary Romance
Gus
I am in my ‘New Gus’ era. I am learning to love myself again. I am rediscovering me after the dumpster fire of an almost marriage. I am…living with my great aunt until I can afford to get my own place.
But that requires a job. And lucky for me, I score one on my first interview with the grumpiest, hottest, bear-sized man I’ve ever had the pleasure to irritate. He’s at least twenty years older than me and I’m positive that he forgot how to smile right around the time I was born. But there’s something about the pain behind his eyes that I want to ease.
All too soon I’m dreaming of his strong hands on my body and his lips against mine. But I can’t. I shouldn’t. There’s no way my heart is ready for another fall.
Max
Opening Redpoint Brewery with my brothers is not our passion project or something we ever imagined we would be doing. But it’s our last chance—with our last cent—to make something of the Sutton name after losing our birthright.
I expected the normal ups and downs of a new business. I expected this mid-life about-face to be difficult. But I didn’t expect my brand-new employee—Gus—to turn me completely upside down with her copper-colored hair, delicious curves, and smartass mouth.
I want her. But I can’t even think about it. She’s too young. I’m too broken. And I won’t make the mistake of losing everything by falling for an employee. Again.
I am in my ‘New Gus’ era. I am learning to love myself again. I am rediscovering me after the dumpster fire of an almost marriage. I am…living with my great aunt until I can afford to get my own place.
But that requires a job. And lucky for me, I score one on my first interview with the grumpiest, hottest, bear-sized man I’ve ever had the pleasure to irritate. He’s at least twenty years older than me and I’m positive that he forgot how to smile right around the time I was born. But there’s something about the pain behind his eyes that I want to ease.
All too soon I’m dreaming of his strong hands on my body and his lips against mine. But I can’t. I shouldn’t. There’s no way my heart is ready for another fall.
Max
Opening Redpoint Brewery with my brothers is not our passion project or something we ever imagined we would be doing. But it’s our last chance—with our last cent—to make something of the Sutton name after losing our birthright.
I expected the normal ups and downs of a new business. I expected this mid-life about-face to be difficult. But I didn’t expect my brand-new employee—Gus—to turn me completely upside down with her copper-colored hair, delicious curves, and smartass mouth.
I want her. But I can’t even think about it. She’s too young. I’m too broken. And I won’t make the mistake of losing everything by falling for an employee. Again.
- GenresRomance
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2023
18 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Mimi Kinley
46 books174 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Mimi Kinley writes short, hot contemporary romance with guaranteed HEAs. She lives in the midwest with her husband and two cats.
Her stories are available in Kindle Unlimited as individual books or as part of larger anthologies.
She also writes full-length contemporary romance under the pen name Mindy McKinley.
Her stories are available in Kindle Unlimited as individual books or as part of larger anthologies.
She also writes full-length contemporary romance under the pen name Mindy McKinley.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 8, 2023
New to me author Mimi Kinley
Solid 4 stars
Standalone book but there are three books also written in the same town
Small town romance
Lots of build up spicy hotel scene
Hero Max Sutton
Heroine Gus (Augusta) Carper
Small town called Paintbrush I mean how cute is that.
Grizzly, grumpy Daddy
Curvy, Strong minded , Redhead
Age gap, HEA, hot buildup
Let me start by saying this is the first book that I have read by this author and she did not disappoint.
I really loved the storyline. Both main characters are at a starting over period in their lives. Neither looking for love hence the slow burn but hot buildup . That hotel scene hot dame. I really like Max hes growly, big, and lets just say hot. Gus is absolutely perfect for him. I totally recommend this book.
Solid 4 stars
Standalone book but there are three books also written in the same town
Small town romance
Lots of build up spicy hotel scene
Hero Max Sutton
Heroine Gus (Augusta) Carper
Small town called Paintbrush I mean how cute is that.
Grizzly, grumpy Daddy
Curvy, Strong minded , Redhead
Age gap, HEA, hot buildup
Let me start by saying this is the first book that I have read by this author and she did not disappoint.
I really loved the storyline. Both main characters are at a starting over period in their lives. Neither looking for love hence the slow burn but hot buildup . That hotel scene hot dame. I really like Max hes growly, big, and lets just say hot. Gus is absolutely perfect for him. I totally recommend this book.
September 16, 2023
Prior to starting "Tempting Max," I was deep in a book slump. The book doldrums. A shlurump. I could not figure out how to claw my out, honestly.
Nonetheless, I pushed through. I persevered. I saw that this book was available and I figured why not? I'm not familiar with the author but it sounds like a good read - curvy heroine, grumpy bearded, older mountain man, the promise of steam - I'm in. Mimi Kinley was a new to me author but I loved the premise so I dove in.
And I was so happy I did so!! It was a great read that felt almost nostalgic but not stale or as if it had been done before. It felt like just an easy, great romance - not too heavy on the angst. Lots of steam and delicious tension, great world and character building - I loved Max in all his grumpy glory and Gus in all her sassitude.
And the Max's brothers! I'm ready for their books too! All in all, it was a great ready and I'm excited to continue reading more books in this series and from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nonetheless, I pushed through. I persevered. I saw that this book was available and I figured why not? I'm not familiar with the author but it sounds like a good read - curvy heroine, grumpy bearded, older mountain man, the promise of steam - I'm in. Mimi Kinley was a new to me author but I loved the premise so I dove in.
And I was so happy I did so!! It was a great read that felt almost nostalgic but not stale or as if it had been done before. It felt like just an easy, great romance - not too heavy on the angst. Lots of steam and delicious tension, great world and character building - I loved Max in all his grumpy glory and Gus in all her sassitude.
And the Max's brothers! I'm ready for their books too! All in all, it was a great ready and I'm excited to continue reading more books in this series and from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2023
Not For Me . . .
Max is the male character and is presented as a grouchy man who may be broken and not deserving of love. Gus is the female character learning to spread her wings. She needs to find work so she can move out of her great aunt’s home and be independent. She quickly decides that he is tempting, yet she doesn’t want to repeat the breakup she just got through.
Max and his brothers are taking the final risk with opening their Redpoint Brewery, challenged to make it a success and bring back the proud Sutton name. Then he meets the new employee, Gus, and he goes through all the reasons why he should not want her. In fact, not dating employees is his Number One Rule, right? So how will Max, who thinks of himself as unworthy and broken, win the heart of the young damsel he is not supposed to mess with?
This is the part of the story where Max gets together with young Gus. He introduces her to kinky behavior, and she decides spanking is the new highlight in her life – the unexpected addition of kink made me ill. No trigger warnings were given by the author about that distasteful behavior so when Max, older, bigger, and stronger, decides to spank Gus, this was a huge dead-stop turn-off for me. I positively do not like gratuitous, irrational spanking scenes thrown into a story line. They are completely inappropriate. Spanking has absolutely nothing at all to do with a love story in my opinion. This kind of behavior where that big strong man beats on a young woman adds absolutely no value to the plot, turns my stomach, and ruins the story. I had no further desire to read more.
Max is the male character and is presented as a grouchy man who may be broken and not deserving of love. Gus is the female character learning to spread her wings. She needs to find work so she can move out of her great aunt’s home and be independent. She quickly decides that he is tempting, yet she doesn’t want to repeat the breakup she just got through.
Max and his brothers are taking the final risk with opening their Redpoint Brewery, challenged to make it a success and bring back the proud Sutton name. Then he meets the new employee, Gus, and he goes through all the reasons why he should not want her. In fact, not dating employees is his Number One Rule, right? So how will Max, who thinks of himself as unworthy and broken, win the heart of the young damsel he is not supposed to mess with?
This is the part of the story where Max gets together with young Gus. He introduces her to kinky behavior, and she decides spanking is the new highlight in her life – the unexpected addition of kink made me ill. No trigger warnings were given by the author about that distasteful behavior so when Max, older, bigger, and stronger, decides to spank Gus, this was a huge dead-stop turn-off for me. I positively do not like gratuitous, irrational spanking scenes thrown into a story line. They are completely inappropriate. Spanking has absolutely nothing at all to do with a love story in my opinion. This kind of behavior where that big strong man beats on a young woman adds absolutely no value to the plot, turns my stomach, and ruins the story. I had no further desire to read more.
August 22, 2023
Umm, Mimi Kinley, Ma’am, I’m going to need more broody heroes like Max. They don’t all have to be so grouchy, but good lord his intensity is alluring. Oof, Kelly Clarkson, save me from these bearded, filthy-mouthed, mountain man zaddy book boyfriends. Or don’t, cuz I’m happily smitten with them, but I think Max & Gus made my kindle blush! Max and Gus were both in rebuilding phases of their lives. Max and his brothers were about to launch Redpoint Brewery. Gus moved back to Colorado after a 3 year relationship ended in betrayal and heartache. I loved how contrasting, yet wholly complementary Max and Gus were. She softened his gruff bear facade and he helped center her with a sense of belonging, found family, and work she could be passionate about and proud of. Oh my heart, the tension swirling around Max while he resisted his feelings for Gus was palpable. With a sizzling hot, stormed-in, one-bed hotel scene, this book checked a whole lot of boxes! Tempting Max made my heart race and made my belly flutter. Gus’s Aunt Sally and Max’s brothers are so much fun. I can’t wait to read more about the Sutton Brothers!
Currently reading
November 14, 2023Max et Gus (Augusta)
Agegap (20 ans)
📖
Gus
Je suis dans mon époque « New Gus ». J'apprends à nouveau à m'aimer. Je me redécouvre après l'incendie de la benne à ordures d'un quasi-mariage. Je vis avec ma grand-tante jusqu'à ce que je puisse me permettre d'avoir mon propre logement.
Mais cela nécessite un travail. Et heureusement pour moi, j'en ai obtenu un lors de ma première interview avec l'homme de la taille d'un ours le plus grincheux et le plus sexy que j'ai jamais eu le plaisir d'irriter. Il a au moins vingt ans de plus que moi et je suis sûr qu'il a oublié comment sourire à l'époque de ma naissance. Mais il y a quelque chose dans la douleur derrière ses yeux que je veux apaiser.
Trop tôt, je rêve de ses mains fortes sur mon corps et de ses lèvres contre les miennes. Mais je ne peux pas. Je ne devrais pas. Il n’y a aucune chance que mon cœur soit prêt pour une autre chute.
Max
Ouvrir la brasserie Redpoint avec mes frères n'est pas notre projet de passion ni quelque chose que nous avions imaginé faire. Mais c'est notre dernière chance – avec notre dernier centime – de faire quelque chose du nom Sutton après avoir perdu notre droit de naissance.
Je m'attendais aux hauts et aux bas normaux d'une nouvelle entreprise. Je m’attendais à ce que cette volte-face de la quarantaine soit difficile. Mais je ne m'attendais pas à ce que ma toute nouvelle employée, Gus, me bouleverse complètement avec ses cheveux cuivrés, ses courbes délicieuses et sa bouche intelligente.
Je la veux. Mais je ne peux même pas y penser. Elle est trop jeune. Je suis trop brisé. Et je ne ferai pas l’erreur de tout perdre en tombant amoureux d’un employé. Encore.
📕
Agegap (20 ans)
📖
Gus
Je suis dans mon époque « New Gus ». J'apprends à nouveau à m'aimer. Je me redécouvre après l'incendie de la benne à ordures d'un quasi-mariage. Je vis avec ma grand-tante jusqu'à ce que je puisse me permettre d'avoir mon propre logement.
Mais cela nécessite un travail. Et heureusement pour moi, j'en ai obtenu un lors de ma première interview avec l'homme de la taille d'un ours le plus grincheux et le plus sexy que j'ai jamais eu le plaisir d'irriter. Il a au moins vingt ans de plus que moi et je suis sûr qu'il a oublié comment sourire à l'époque de ma naissance. Mais il y a quelque chose dans la douleur derrière ses yeux que je veux apaiser.
Trop tôt, je rêve de ses mains fortes sur mon corps et de ses lèvres contre les miennes. Mais je ne peux pas. Je ne devrais pas. Il n’y a aucune chance que mon cœur soit prêt pour une autre chute.
Max
Ouvrir la brasserie Redpoint avec mes frères n'est pas notre projet de passion ni quelque chose que nous avions imaginé faire. Mais c'est notre dernière chance – avec notre dernier centime – de faire quelque chose du nom Sutton après avoir perdu notre droit de naissance.
Je m'attendais aux hauts et aux bas normaux d'une nouvelle entreprise. Je m’attendais à ce que cette volte-face de la quarantaine soit difficile. Mais je ne m'attendais pas à ce que ma toute nouvelle employée, Gus, me bouleverse complètement avec ses cheveux cuivrés, ses courbes délicieuses et sa bouche intelligente.
Je la veux. Mais je ne peux même pas y penser. Elle est trop jeune. Je suis trop brisé. Et je ne ferai pas l’erreur de tout perdre en tombant amoureux d’un employé. Encore.
📕
August 19, 2023
Paintbrush Peak Is Booming
If you are familiar with Mimi Kinley’s novellas, you know that she brings the romance and the steam to all her books. With Tempting Max being a full-length novel, you get more insight into the characters and a longer burn before the flame takes hold.
Tempting Max picks up not long after Calla’s Mountain Man ends. It is the first in a new series and is a standalone novel even though some characters return from the Paintbrush Peak series of novellas.
Gus is in Paintbrush Peak getting a new start on her life after a derailed engagement. Max and his brothers are betting their entire future on their new brewery, Redpoint, after having been duped out of their inheritance. Gus walks into Redpoint and a sense of rightness flows through her, then she sees Max. He thought he was interviewing a man named Gus, not this beautiful, feisty young woman, but she has the qualifications they require and he hires her, despite his misgivings given his instant, but decidedly unwanted, attraction to her. They spend a lot of time avoiding each other until a storm forces them together, then another storm seals the deal. Gus and Max both have issues to resolve. Gus is working with a therapist on hers, but Max has his shoved down and doesn’t deal with it until he almost destroys everything in a fit of rage.
I always appreciate when an author makes a point of mental health being an important element in relationships and treats it like getting physical therapy after an injury, with no stigma attached and as a common-sense solution.
If you are familiar with Mimi Kinley’s novellas, you know that she brings the romance and the steam to all her books. With Tempting Max being a full-length novel, you get more insight into the characters and a longer burn before the flame takes hold.
Tempting Max picks up not long after Calla’s Mountain Man ends. It is the first in a new series and is a standalone novel even though some characters return from the Paintbrush Peak series of novellas.
Gus is in Paintbrush Peak getting a new start on her life after a derailed engagement. Max and his brothers are betting their entire future on their new brewery, Redpoint, after having been duped out of their inheritance. Gus walks into Redpoint and a sense of rightness flows through her, then she sees Max. He thought he was interviewing a man named Gus, not this beautiful, feisty young woman, but she has the qualifications they require and he hires her, despite his misgivings given his instant, but decidedly unwanted, attraction to her. They spend a lot of time avoiding each other until a storm forces them together, then another storm seals the deal. Gus and Max both have issues to resolve. Gus is working with a therapist on hers, but Max has his shoved down and doesn’t deal with it until he almost destroys everything in a fit of rage.
I always appreciate when an author makes a point of mental health being an important element in relationships and treats it like getting physical therapy after an injury, with no stigma attached and as a common-sense solution.
August 21, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Yes
FMC: Gus (Curvy, Strong minded , Redhead)
MMC: Max (Grizzly, grumpy Daddy)
POV: First Person, Second Person, Third Person, Multi POV, Dual POV
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
HEA: Yes
Tropes: Mountain Man Romance, Age-Gap, Curvy FMC, Grumpy/Sunshine, Workplace Romance, Small town romance
Mimi Kinley's "Tempting Max" sparks with slow-burn intensity and magnetic attraction. Set against the charming backdrop of Paintbrush Peak, this small-town romance introduces Max and Gus, whose chemistry is both electric and tender.
Kinley's skilful handling of mental health adds depth to the story, seamlessly weaving personal growth into the narrative. As Max and Gus navigate their pasts and forge a connection, their journey becomes a testament to healing and love.
With its grumpy yet endearing hero and fiery heroine, "Tempting Max" delivers on all fronts. The steamy scenes and emotional resonance make this a standout in Kinley's collection, while the quaint town setting adds a cosy touch.
For fans of Kinley's novellas or those new to her work, "Tempting Max" promises a satisfying blend of passion and heart. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a quick yet deeply satisfying romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Yes
FMC: Gus (Curvy, Strong minded , Redhead)
MMC: Max (Grizzly, grumpy Daddy)
POV: First Person, Second Person, Third Person, Multi POV, Dual POV
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
HEA: Yes
Tropes: Mountain Man Romance, Age-Gap, Curvy FMC, Grumpy/Sunshine, Workplace Romance, Small town romance
Mimi Kinley's "Tempting Max" sparks with slow-burn intensity and magnetic attraction. Set against the charming backdrop of Paintbrush Peak, this small-town romance introduces Max and Gus, whose chemistry is both electric and tender.
Kinley's skilful handling of mental health adds depth to the story, seamlessly weaving personal growth into the narrative. As Max and Gus navigate their pasts and forge a connection, their journey becomes a testament to healing and love.
With its grumpy yet endearing hero and fiery heroine, "Tempting Max" delivers on all fronts. The steamy scenes and emotional resonance make this a standout in Kinley's collection, while the quaint town setting adds a cosy touch.
For fans of Kinley's novellas or those new to her work, "Tempting Max" promises a satisfying blend of passion and heart. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a quick yet deeply satisfying romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2023
Man...these two main characters have been through some stuff!!
Gus moves in with her great Aunt after her marriage ends to start over. She gets a job a local brewery where she meets grumpy Max. Max and his brothers just opened up a brewery after the one that was passed down from his father was stolen by his uncle and ex girlfriend. He interviews Gus, thinking that she was going to be a man, her real name is Agusta but she goes by Gus, and he hires her on the spot. He starts having feelings for Gus and hides them by staying away from her while at work.
One night Gus cuts her finger while cutting fruit and Max rushes her to the ER that a few hours away. Due to a storm they decide to stay overnight in a hotel and that's the start of their relationship. They decide to keep it secret from the rest of the coworkers and his brothers. His uncles makes an appearance at his brewery and Gus serves him not knowing who he is. When Max sees he blows up at Gus thinking she is plotting against him like his ex did with the first brewery. Gus puts him in his place immediately!!
I liked this story, especially how Gus did not let Max scare her away and she spoke her mind. I LOL'd when they were at the hotel and had the condoms delivered!! Such a cute story!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gus moves in with her great Aunt after her marriage ends to start over. She gets a job a local brewery where she meets grumpy Max. Max and his brothers just opened up a brewery after the one that was passed down from his father was stolen by his uncle and ex girlfriend. He interviews Gus, thinking that she was going to be a man, her real name is Agusta but she goes by Gus, and he hires her on the spot. He starts having feelings for Gus and hides them by staying away from her while at work.
One night Gus cuts her finger while cutting fruit and Max rushes her to the ER that a few hours away. Due to a storm they decide to stay overnight in a hotel and that's the start of their relationship. They decide to keep it secret from the rest of the coworkers and his brothers. His uncles makes an appearance at his brewery and Gus serves him not knowing who he is. When Max sees he blows up at Gus thinking she is plotting against him like his ex did with the first brewery. Gus puts him in his place immediately!!
I liked this story, especially how Gus did not let Max scare her away and she spoke her mind. I LOL'd when they were at the hotel and had the condoms delivered!! Such a cute story!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2023
Tempting Max is the first book in the Beards & Brews series, and OMG is it hot 🔥! It's a super-steamy, grumpy-sunshine, instalove, OTT, age-gap, curvy girl gets her mountain man romance. Augusta (Gus) is a 25 year old, curvy, sassy girl starting over and trying to find herself again after coming out of a bad relationship of 3 years. She moves to the small town of Paintbrush from Chicago and ends up working at Redpoint Brewery. Max is a grumpy, hunky, 45 year old brewmaster and owner of the Brewery along with his two brothers. They are also starting over after they lost their family business. Max and Gus are instantly attracted to one another but try to resist as neither is looking for a relationship. Both are healing after bad relationships and starting over. But love happens when it happens...and when it does, holy hotness. The chemistry between these two was off the charts. I expected the pages to melt from all their steamy sexcapades. After a little drama, we get an amazing HEA. I absolutely loved it. This was my first Mimi Kinley book, and now I want to read them all. I can't wait for the next two books in the series!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2023
- Start to the Beards & Brews series hang on once you start you won’t put it down until the last page has been turned. Augusta a curvy girl is trying to start over after a bad relationship so moving to a small town from Chicago accepting a job at the brewery and her goal is to better herself or look ahead. Max sexy as all get out grumpy older brewery owner along with his brothers with issues after losing their family business starting over isn’t easy so relationships the last thing on his mind, workaholic in getting the brewery where he wants/needs it to be but the new girl has his insides all twisted up and it is frustrating him, They are both just walking away from a relationship that they would like to forget about yet the attraction is intense and the magnetic pull between pull them can’t be ignore no matter how hard they fight it but has fate put them in a situation where they can’t ignore it, will they acknowledge it, will they work together to make the brewery a success, and will they find happiness the second time around?
June 7, 2024
This was my first novel from Mimi Kinley and it was a perfect, quick read that was so much fun and not particularly complex or complicated. I can't decide if I would've wanted a longer story - because I'm sure an extended buildup & burn would've been awesome, but at the same time, I really enjoyed the story as it didn't drag or meander at any point.
I loved that this was about new beginnings - for both of them - and the fact that they could help each other heal from their respective pasts, just made them a really good fit for each other. Gus is all about standing on her own 2 feet and rediscovering her independence, but she doesn't cling to it so strongly that she misses a good thing when she sees it AKA Max. Similarly, while the relationship with Gus may feel similar to a mistake he made in his past - he doesn't let it deter him nor does he assume it will go down the same way.
This was a lovely, feel good book - highly recommend.
I loved that this was about new beginnings - for both of them - and the fact that they could help each other heal from their respective pasts, just made them a really good fit for each other. Gus is all about standing on her own 2 feet and rediscovering her independence, but she doesn't cling to it so strongly that she misses a good thing when she sees it AKA Max. Similarly, while the relationship with Gus may feel similar to a mistake he made in his past - he doesn't let it deter him nor does he assume it will go down the same way.
This was a lovely, feel good book - highly recommend.
August 22, 2023
Tempting Max is the first book in the Beards and Brews series, and Max is one of my new favorite grumpy heroes. He is so intense and OTT, and the chemistry between him and Gus is off-the-charts hot!! Both MCs are rebuilding their lives after terrible breakups with terrible people. The supporting characters shine but don't overpower, and I can't wait for Max's brothers to get their books next. The banter between the brothers is fantastic; the banter between Max and Gus is deliciously spicy.
I cannot wait to catch up on this author's backlist because she brings an amazing energy to her characters. Very highly recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I cannot wait to catch up on this author's backlist because she brings an amazing energy to her characters. Very highly recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2023
A sweet, sexy, and entertaining romance!
Max has been burned in the past by a deceitful family member and his last girlfriend, which has turned him into a mega-grump.
Enter Gus, a woman who’s also been disappointed by an a-hole ex and is looking to start over and rediscover herself.
Neither one wants to be attracted to the other—but the sparks fly whenever they’re together. Eventually, Gus and Max are consumed by their desires and the result is a smokin’ hot love affair.
I loved Gus’s kick ass personality and Max’s Grumpy McGrumperson vibe. It made for lots of chemistry between the two.
If you want a light, quick read with spicy scenes to boot, I recommend this romance.
Max has been burned in the past by a deceitful family member and his last girlfriend, which has turned him into a mega-grump.
Enter Gus, a woman who’s also been disappointed by an a-hole ex and is looking to start over and rediscover herself.
Neither one wants to be attracted to the other—but the sparks fly whenever they’re together. Eventually, Gus and Max are consumed by their desires and the result is a smokin’ hot love affair.
I loved Gus’s kick ass personality and Max’s Grumpy McGrumperson vibe. It made for lots of chemistry between the two.
If you want a light, quick read with spicy scenes to boot, I recommend this romance.
August 24, 2023
Mimi Kinsley has this amazing energy and that energy translates into her books.
Tempting Max is an insta connection, age gap, mild daddy kink, small-town, coworker romance.
It’s a perfect novel to read, when you don’t know what to read and nothing is hitting you right.
It is fun, it is light and it is super steamy. I mean sparks fly off the pages and that first kiss is going onto my epic first kisses shelve.
But it is not just steamy, it is so much more! Max the hero is this gorgeous grouchy man, who believes he is too broken to find love. Gus is this amazing person who is all about moving into the new Gus era, and she really develops herself to be the strong woman she always was.
Last but not least, the story is setting in a brewery, owned by Max an his brothers in this amazing small-town that is called Paintbrush. I really loved the brewery vibe and it has a lot of fun small town elements.
So a well deserved 5 stars!
Tempting Max is an insta connection, age gap, mild daddy kink, small-town, coworker romance.
It’s a perfect novel to read, when you don’t know what to read and nothing is hitting you right.
It is fun, it is light and it is super steamy. I mean sparks fly off the pages and that first kiss is going onto my epic first kisses shelve.
But it is not just steamy, it is so much more! Max the hero is this gorgeous grouchy man, who believes he is too broken to find love. Gus is this amazing person who is all about moving into the new Gus era, and she really develops herself to be the strong woman she always was.
Last but not least, the story is setting in a brewery, owned by Max an his brothers in this amazing small-town that is called Paintbrush. I really loved the brewery vibe and it has a lot of fun small town elements.
So a well deserved 5 stars!
August 29, 2023
When I saw the opportunity to read this book early, I jumped at it. And I’m glad I did.
Gus (Augusta) and Max are a couple of broken-hearted lovers, neither of whom are looking for anyone new.
In personal reset mode, Gus takes a job managing the bar owned by Max and his brothers.
Grumpy and avoidant, Max tries everything he can to resist the feelings he has for Gus. Luckily for us, he can’t resist them for long.
Full of steam, and a lot of fun from beginning to end, I enjoyed Tempting Max and will be looking for the other books that take place in this small Colorado town.
I received a copy of Tempting Max in exchange for an honest review.
Gus (Augusta) and Max are a couple of broken-hearted lovers, neither of whom are looking for anyone new.
In personal reset mode, Gus takes a job managing the bar owned by Max and his brothers.
Grumpy and avoidant, Max tries everything he can to resist the feelings he has for Gus. Luckily for us, he can’t resist them for long.
Full of steam, and a lot of fun from beginning to end, I enjoyed Tempting Max and will be looking for the other books that take place in this small Colorado town.
I received a copy of Tempting Max in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2023
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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Out of the handful of steamy novels I've read this is my favorite so far. The characters were flawed and human, making their connections - while a little rushed - feel very real. The tension was palpable, and the build-up to the hotel scene was chef's kiss.
The brothers were sweet and funny, and the brewery gives it a nice set-up because who hasn't been a bartender/knows a bartender with juicy stories!
Overall I give this a 3/5.
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Out of the handful of steamy novels I've read this is my favorite so far. The characters were flawed and human, making their connections - while a little rushed - feel very real. The tension was palpable, and the build-up to the hotel scene was chef's kiss.
The brothers were sweet and funny, and the brewery gives it a nice set-up because who hasn't been a bartender/knows a bartender with juicy stories!
Overall I give this a 3/5.
January 24, 2024
After Gus’s life in Chicago crashes and burns she moves the Paintbrush to live with her aunt and gets a job at the the microbrewery in town owned by the three Sutton brothers. Max is the brewmaster and the oldest of the three who hires Gus thinking he is hiring a male. Max has been grumpy since he allowed a woman along with his uncle to swindle the brewery his father started but Gus is breathing new air into his life. Loved this funny steamy romance and cannot wait to read Liam and Elliott’s story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2024
This is the second book I've read by Mimi Kinley, and I loved it. She's very talented, and has written a lovely little community full of people who support each other and work together, and I loved that. I also loved how Gus and Max worked on their issues, and while everything wasn't smooth sailing, they managed to pull through everything together in the end and make it work out despite their initial hesitations. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2023
Max and his brothers are opening a brewery. Gus is a new employee. Neither Max nor Gus want to start a new relationship after the blow ups they have been through. Fate has thrown them together though and she will not be denied. Loved the characters, the storyline, entertaining situations and steamy moments. Such chemistry and a wonderful ending that I totally enjoyed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2023
Absolutely adored this book, the characters are fantastic, as they are complex, yet strive for improvement. Loved the dynamic with the brothers as they all work well together and give that family support when needed and necessary. Wonderful storyline as this is just the beginning of the Sutton brothers and looking forward to each of them getting a HEA.
I am voluntarily leaving a review for this book that I received free.
I am voluntarily leaving a review for this book that I received free.
January 25, 2024
This is a great book for opening for the series! This is about the couple Max and Gus (Augusta) they meet when she comes to the Brewery max and his family owns to get a job. She gets it and she fights the attraction at first because he’s the boss. But she can’t fight it for very long and soon she’s falling for her older boss. The road is a bit bumpy but low angst. HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 14, 2023
I loved this story! Age gap, grumpy/sunshine, sweet and steamy, just how I like it, so I ended up reading all night.
It was a second chance at love for both Augusta (Gus) and Max. While denying it for as long as they could, there was super hot chemistry between those two. It was very clear that Gus was all Max ever needed in his life.
It was a second chance at love for both Augusta (Gus) and Max. While denying it for as long as they could, there was super hot chemistry between those two. It was very clear that Gus was all Max ever needed in his life.
August 22, 2023
4.5⭐️ The chemistry in this book between Max and Gus is smoking hot. It’s tension and banter and absolutely delicious.
“Just enjoying you, this, everything.”
I loved the town and the close knit community in this one. Gus is sassy and sweet and watching her find her confidence again was so amazing - plus I love a grumpy hero!
Fun and flirty read - can’t wait for the next one!
“Just enjoying you, this, everything.”
I loved the town and the close knit community in this one. Gus is sassy and sweet and watching her find her confidence again was so amazing - plus I love a grumpy hero!
Fun and flirty read - can’t wait for the next one!
September 9, 2023
This is a story that you can easily get lost in, find yourself swooning with the characters and feeling the heat between them fly off the pages.
Gus and Max's story is one that has you on a wonderful ride as love find them when they least expect it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gus and Max's story is one that has you on a wonderful ride as love find them when they least expect it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 9, 2023
3.75 rounded up to 4 stars. I loved most of the book and story, but in general didn't care for the sexy stuff and spicy scenes. I found the way that their physical relationship developed to be strange...like the order on which they tried different things together. In general it wasn't my favorite type of spice but the rest of the story kept me reading.
October 14, 2023
Gus is starting over. She wants to forget a lousy marriage. But she needs a job deparately. She applies to waitress at brewery. Max sees the gorgeous redhead but he just started his business and thinks he hasno time for romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2023
Good story with lovable characters. I couldn’t help but have all the feels for Max and Gus. A well written grumpy/sunshine that made me smile.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 14, 2023
Couldn’t put it down. Love how Gus was a strong lead character and wouldn’t let Max get away with anything. Looking forward to reading the other brothers books!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2023
This was a fun steamy read!
Highly recommend if you love:
💙Age Gap (20 years)
💙Grumpy Silver Fox Hero
💙Sassy Redhead
💙Curvy Heroine
💙Boss/Employee
💙He’s a “Daddy”
💙Small Town Brewery
“To strong thighs. That’s it, that’s the dedication.”
Highly recommend if you love:
💙Age Gap (20 years)
💙Grumpy Silver Fox Hero
💙Sassy Redhead
💙Curvy Heroine
💙Boss/Employee
💙He’s a “Daddy”
💙Small Town Brewery
“To strong thighs. That’s it, that’s the dedication.”
August 24, 2023
I was hooked from the very beginning with the well written and well planned plot and the characters were written with such detail that I couldn't wait to read the next page!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews