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Blueball Band of Brothers #2
S'more Than a Feeling
I think I just slept with Mr. Perfect. Too bad he turned out to be my brother’s best friend.
The tattooed stranger rode a motorcycle while helping me collect stray cats. My boots gave me blisters and he carried me on his back. I needed help and he didn’t ask questions before assisting me. Could there be a more perfect man? It just made sense to lick him and claim him as mine right then and there.
I probably should have asked him more questions before we slept together.
Like, what’s your last name? Where’ve you been living before moving here to my hometown? Is my older brother your best friend?
You know. Those kinds of questions.
But sadly, I didn’t. And now I’m staring at two pink lines and Mr. Perfect is nowhere to be found, leaving me brokenhearted and on my own. Even though I love my son with every fiber of my being, he’s also a daily reminder that I’ve made the worst mistake of my life.
It’s only years later when Mr. Perfect shows up in town again that I begin to see that I was never in love with him back then.
But I might be now.
The tattooed stranger rode a motorcycle while helping me collect stray cats. My boots gave me blisters and he carried me on his back. I needed help and he didn’t ask questions before assisting me. Could there be a more perfect man? It just made sense to lick him and claim him as mine right then and there.
I probably should have asked him more questions before we slept together.
Like, what’s your last name? Where’ve you been living before moving here to my hometown? Is my older brother your best friend?
You know. Those kinds of questions.
But sadly, I didn’t. And now I’m staring at two pink lines and Mr. Perfect is nowhere to be found, leaving me brokenhearted and on my own. Even though I love my son with every fiber of my being, he’s also a daily reminder that I’ve made the worst mistake of my life.
It’s only years later when Mr. Perfect shows up in town again that I begin to see that I was never in love with him back then.
But I might be now.
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About the author
Marika Ray
89 books1,426 followersMarika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.
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Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 24, 2023
Oh. My. Goodness. This was such a feel-good story that had me smiling, sizzling, and swooning the whole way through. It was utterly and delightfully charming, and also filled with the perfect amount of spice.
Lincoln is everything. Marika Ray has, yet again, given us a sexy AF hero with a heart of gold. A man who’s a gentleman when he should be and not-a-gentleman when he wants to be. *waggles eyebrows*
Lincoln has big goals. His goals?
-To do what’s right. And boy, does he.
-Own up and take responsibility. He so does!
-Make Keva trust him. He’s got his work cut out for him.
-Make her fall in love with him. He’s SO DANG LOVABLE, so this should be easy.
He has some serious determination to get what he wants.
And what he wants? Is Keva and Lucas.
You guys…he is SO GOOD. And kind and giving and alpha and the sweetest man ever. And the way he is with his little boy…*sigh*…be. still. my. heart.
It’s understandable why Keva is so distrusting though. She’s been alone for so long. Everyone leaves her. She’s had to learn how to do things on her own. Even raise a child. It’s no wonder it’s so hard for her to hand over the reins. Watching her slowly see the light, see the good that’s right in front of her, see that she needs and wants and deserves Linc, is such a beautiful thing. Did I mention this book made me smile A LOT?
I couldn’t get enough of this adorable and heartwarming story. I loved everything single thing about it. The friends, the family, the father-son bonding, the friendships, the banter, the love. Touching moments had my heart fluttering often. Stressful situations were handled carefully and resolved perfectly. This well-written RomCom satisfied me in all the ways. Bring on the next book in the series!
Lincoln is everything. Marika Ray has, yet again, given us a sexy AF hero with a heart of gold. A man who’s a gentleman when he should be and not-a-gentleman when he wants to be. *waggles eyebrows*
Lincoln has big goals. His goals?
-To do what’s right. And boy, does he.
-Own up and take responsibility. He so does!
-Make Keva trust him. He’s got his work cut out for him.
-Make her fall in love with him. He’s SO DANG LOVABLE, so this should be easy.
He has some serious determination to get what he wants.
And what he wants? Is Keva and Lucas.
You guys…he is SO GOOD. And kind and giving and alpha and the sweetest man ever. And the way he is with his little boy…*sigh*…be. still. my. heart.
It’s understandable why Keva is so distrusting though. She’s been alone for so long. Everyone leaves her. She’s had to learn how to do things on her own. Even raise a child. It’s no wonder it’s so hard for her to hand over the reins. Watching her slowly see the light, see the good that’s right in front of her, see that she needs and wants and deserves Linc, is such a beautiful thing. Did I mention this book made me smile A LOT?
I couldn’t get enough of this adorable and heartwarming story. I loved everything single thing about it. The friends, the family, the father-son bonding, the friendships, the banter, the love. Touching moments had my heart fluttering often. Stressful situations were handled carefully and resolved perfectly. This well-written RomCom satisfied me in all the ways. Bring on the next book in the series!
August 6, 2023
Heartwarming, healing and swoony
This book. The mistakes. The past pain. The laughs. The romance. The feels. The healing. I loved it all. Keva and Linc’s brother’s best friend, one night stand, surprise pregnancy, single mom, second chance romance was filled with all the emotions, the connections and the love. Keva and Linc are portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws, but are really trying to just do their best as messy fallible humans who make mistakes. Sometimes big mistakes, but they are willing to deal with their issues and unpack their heavy baggage to get to their HEA. Keva and Linc had instant attraction five years ago and enjoyed a weird but fun day followed by a steamy date that ended in Linc getting punched by Keva’s brother, Linc’s best friend, and then he ghosted her. She tried once after she found out she was pregnant to contact him but then set her shoulders and embraced being a single mom to Lucas. Linc has never been able to forget Keva and returns to the area, after getting out of the military, to find her. I was feeling all the feels reading this story. I have a soft spot for the people, like Keva, who are a bit uncomfortable in their skin because they don’t feel like they fit in or are unworthy. So I love when they finally see their truth and they get swoon worthy HEAs. I also loved that Lucas was a such wonderful and integral addition to the story rather than a flimsy story prop. Keva and Linc’s interactions with Lucas helped advance the story and led to beautiful character growth. This heartwarming story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline as shown in sweet moments, steamy scenes, laughs, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, mild angst and all the love. I am excited to read more Blueball stories starring the secondary characters from the first two books.
This book. The mistakes. The past pain. The laughs. The romance. The feels. The healing. I loved it all. Keva and Linc’s brother’s best friend, one night stand, surprise pregnancy, single mom, second chance romance was filled with all the emotions, the connections and the love. Keva and Linc are portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws, but are really trying to just do their best as messy fallible humans who make mistakes. Sometimes big mistakes, but they are willing to deal with their issues and unpack their heavy baggage to get to their HEA. Keva and Linc had instant attraction five years ago and enjoyed a weird but fun day followed by a steamy date that ended in Linc getting punched by Keva’s brother, Linc’s best friend, and then he ghosted her. She tried once after she found out she was pregnant to contact him but then set her shoulders and embraced being a single mom to Lucas. Linc has never been able to forget Keva and returns to the area, after getting out of the military, to find her. I was feeling all the feels reading this story. I have a soft spot for the people, like Keva, who are a bit uncomfortable in their skin because they don’t feel like they fit in or are unworthy. So I love when they finally see their truth and they get swoon worthy HEAs. I also loved that Lucas was a such wonderful and integral addition to the story rather than a flimsy story prop. Keva and Linc’s interactions with Lucas helped advance the story and led to beautiful character growth. This heartwarming story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline as shown in sweet moments, steamy scenes, laughs, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, mild angst and all the love. I am excited to read more Blueball stories starring the secondary characters from the first two books.
August 8, 2023
Marika Ray is my go-to author when I need my spirits lifted, and I know her characters will always make me laugh and wish for a happy ending. Keva is one of my favorite characters from her Auburn Hill series and I am so glad she finally got her own romantic, emotional and heart-tugging story. I had forgotten that Keva had a short entanglement in a previous book with Lincoln, who she “thought” had always been the “one that got away.” Except that when she had tried to reach him a few years ago, he had returned her correspondence unopened and ignored. To her, that silence spoke volumes to the man he really was. He may have been sexy, good looking and fun to be with, but that was in the past and besides, she was just too busy and too tired for romance. The world has a funny way of bringing people back together and who would have thought that Lincoln, who had also never forgotten Keva, had jumped on his Harley with one destination in mind.
Once Keva and Lincoln were reunited, she kept him at arm's length while she decided how to blend her life with his, which was made easier due to his dogged pursuit of the truth. Little by little, Keva’s heart warmed to the idea that Lincoln was a good man, a hard worker and that he really had made Blueball his new home. Keva found it hard to resist his flirtatious nature, his sexy grins and the quiet nights under the sparkly lights outside her trailer. Did she finally have the family she always wanted or was it just wishful thinking that they would be together forever?
Once Keva and Lincoln were reunited, she kept him at arm's length while she decided how to blend her life with his, which was made easier due to his dogged pursuit of the truth. Little by little, Keva’s heart warmed to the idea that Lincoln was a good man, a hard worker and that he really had made Blueball his new home. Keva found it hard to resist his flirtatious nature, his sexy grins and the quiet nights under the sparkly lights outside her trailer. Did she finally have the family she always wanted or was it just wishful thinking that they would be together forever?
August 11, 2023
This is book 2 in Ray's Blueball Band of Brothers series and can be read as a standalone. Wonderfully well written, this rom-com and it's main characters, Keva and Linc have a rollercoaster of a ride in book. Ray delivers a perfectly balanced romance filled with emotional ups and downs; sweet romance as well as dirty, steamy chemistry and of course some laughs and most of all love. I was completely captivated by these characters as well as the settings (a town called Hell and a glam campground). I loved Keva's spirit as well as her friends / support team who are straight shooters but also great comforters. Linc is amazing and I adore how selfless he is from the very beginning. An alpha protector who's emotionally vulnerable and yet strong and hard in all the right ways?!? yes please! While this is the first of Ray's book's I've had the pleasure to read - I seriously am addicted and can't wait for more! For sure a new favorite author that I will be eagerly awaiting more of and in the meantime, will just have to satisfy my rom-com thirst with some of her other reads!
This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
August 23, 2023
Somehow, I had forgotten that once upon a time I had read the beginning of this story. If, like me, you read Missing Linc in the Summer Love anthology, then you’ll recognize Keva and Linc. And like me, you’ll probably be just as excited to finally learn the rest of their story. I adored this pair, but Keva drove me a little, okay a lot, batty with the way she kept closing Linc out. Her reasons and emotions are completely valid, and my brain understands what was driving that reaction. But, my heart hurt for all the additional strife it put on the couple that she maybe didn’t need to put them through. I adored where they get to in the end, however there were times when it was touch and go, and I worried that they were never going to get it right. Now, I can’t wait to see which will be the next couple to find Happily Ever After in Blueball.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
August 12, 2023
I was honoured to receive an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review
I loved this story. If you are thinking that the start of this story sounds familiar to you it is because it has come from the story called Missing Linc which comes from the book Summer Love Anthology which came out in 2021. - Finally we get to hear about Keva & Linc's story.
Previously in Missing Linc... after getting together they get interrupted by 🤫🤫🤫.
Linc goes back into the Army for several years only to come back to start a new job at Glampers Paradise with Gannon in a small town called Blueball. This is when he sees Keva again but this time she's not alone - she has a son called Lucas. Can Keva let Linc in her life that she has only shared with Lucas and forget the pain of being abandoned.
I loved this story. If you are thinking that the start of this story sounds familiar to you it is because it has come from the story called Missing Linc which comes from the book Summer Love Anthology which came out in 2021. - Finally we get to hear about Keva & Linc's story.
Previously in Missing Linc... after getting together they get interrupted by 🤫🤫🤫.
Linc goes back into the Army for several years only to come back to start a new job at Glampers Paradise with Gannon in a small town called Blueball. This is when he sees Keva again but this time she's not alone - she has a son called Lucas. Can Keva let Linc in her life that she has only shared with Lucas and forget the pain of being abandoned.
August 6, 2023
A connection that lasts
I really enjoyed this story, it was a pleasure to read.
A fleeting but unforgettable meeting between Keva and Linc unexpectedly unites them for life.
With Linc nowhere to be found Keva starts her life alone and pregnant, whilst Linc is none the wiser that he is to become a dad.
Reunited years later their feelings for each other have not diminished only grown stronger.
Can Linc break down all Keva’s defences so that they may make a future together and become a family?
This story is about a fleeting connection so strong that it forever changes two lives.
There are steamy scenes, humour, trust and abandonment issues, great friendships and of course love.
All of the characters were believable, down to earth and loveable.
This is book 2 in the Blueball Band of Brothers series, I had not read book 1 and found that I had no trouble following the storyline and all the characters.
I definitely recommend this story and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this story for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this story, it was a pleasure to read.
A fleeting but unforgettable meeting between Keva and Linc unexpectedly unites them for life.
With Linc nowhere to be found Keva starts her life alone and pregnant, whilst Linc is none the wiser that he is to become a dad.
Reunited years later their feelings for each other have not diminished only grown stronger.
Can Linc break down all Keva’s defences so that they may make a future together and become a family?
This story is about a fleeting connection so strong that it forever changes two lives.
There are steamy scenes, humour, trust and abandonment issues, great friendships and of course love.
All of the characters were believable, down to earth and loveable.
This is book 2 in the Blueball Band of Brothers series, I had not read book 1 and found that I had no trouble following the storyline and all the characters.
I definitely recommend this story and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this story for my honest review.
August 24, 2023
"She was like a sunny day to a guy who hadn't come out of his dark cave in years. I craved her."
I have a new favorite Marika Ray book and it is this one. Linc and Keva are two souls that were lost until the day they met.
I absolutely loved what Ms. Ray did with this pregnancy storyline. So many times the story could have veered off in different directions but she kept it all happiness. There are a few bumps here and there but Linc being Linc keeps this story warming your heart. He is so perfect for Keva and the love he has for her and Lucas is extremely unconditional. When he sets out to prove himself he does not hold back.
This story has all of Marika's writing trademarks....meet cutes, quirky side characters and situations, humor galore, and strong friendship/family bonds. All of those are what makes Marika Ray my go-to for romcom reads. They never lack anything. I cannot wait to see what comes next in the Blueball Band of Brothers series.
I have a new favorite Marika Ray book and it is this one. Linc and Keva are two souls that were lost until the day they met.
I absolutely loved what Ms. Ray did with this pregnancy storyline. So many times the story could have veered off in different directions but she kept it all happiness. There are a few bumps here and there but Linc being Linc keeps this story warming your heart. He is so perfect for Keva and the love he has for her and Lucas is extremely unconditional. When he sets out to prove himself he does not hold back.
This story has all of Marika's writing trademarks....meet cutes, quirky side characters and situations, humor galore, and strong friendship/family bonds. All of those are what makes Marika Ray my go-to for romcom reads. They never lack anything. I cannot wait to see what comes next in the Blueball Band of Brothers series.
August 16, 2023
Ahhh, another great rom-com from Marika Ray. Keva and Linc shine throughout these pages. This is a cute second chance for Linc to spend his life with Keva. The universe really wants these two together, it's like they are magnets drawn to one another. Keva has abandonment issues and Lincoln is going to need a bulldozer to get past Keva's walls. Good thing they have an adorable 4 year old as a bridge and buffer. I am enjoying the stories coming out of Blueball.
August 21, 2023
This book had me all up in my feels and happily asking for S'more! Lol Seriously though, I loved this book so much. It was funny and poignant and heartfelt and steamy. I warn you; Keva and Lincoln's romance will give your emotions and heart a wicked workout. Whether you are smiling, swooning, sweating, sighing or outright growling, you'll love it simply because you are so deeply invested in this incredibly sweet, totally meant-to-be couple.
August 8, 2023
This story was exactly what I needed. It’s got the perfect mix of sweetness, steam and those moments where you cannot stop laughing. I fall more and more in love with these characters and always want more once I get to the end. Blueball is my second favorite place to visit. I cannot wait to go back and catch up with these characters and meet new ones. One click this one. You will not regret it.
August 15, 2023
Welcome to Blueball book 2. We met Keva and her son Lucas and got a little of their backstory in book 1 as she is besties with Paisley. We hear about Lincoln, who is buddies with Bain from Love Bank.
Their story is emotional and messy. Demanding and inspiring. Crazy and amazing.
Keva, Lucas, and Linc are amazing together! This was a quick heartwarming story that I definitely recommend!
Their story is emotional and messy. Demanding and inspiring. Crazy and amazing.
Keva, Lucas, and Linc are amazing together! This was a quick heartwarming story that I definitely recommend!
August 24, 2023
This (the second book in this spin-off series) is adorable.
In book one
- which you should have already enjoyed -
we met Gannon (ex-military), and Paisley. One of her friends is Keva. We also learned that Gannon was expecting his friend Linc (also ex-military) to arrive shortly, to help him with his business.
In this story, Keva and Linc have a meet-cute, that turns into a catastrophic mess, one that results in a lingering connection between them. Only that isn't handled well either!! Ugh - frustrating!
My emotions were all over the place with this couple! Swoony, sweet, sad, and holy moley, their chemistry is so very steamy! Whew!!
One of my favorite things about this author is how her character's support each other. It was easy to drop into Blueball and "Glamper's Paradise", and stay a while!! 😏😍 The pages turned themselves and I found myself at the end much too soon for my liking.
It is to your advantage to be well versed in all the Auburn "Hell" stories before beginning this series (so all the references make sense), but not completely a must. So much fun to be found in these pages.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book, and I happily leave my review. I look forward to reading the next creative and entertaining story from this talented author.
In book one
- which you should have already enjoyed -
we met Gannon (ex-military), and Paisley. One of her friends is Keva. We also learned that Gannon was expecting his friend Linc (also ex-military) to arrive shortly, to help him with his business.
In this story, Keva and Linc have a meet-cute, that turns into a catastrophic mess, one that results in a lingering connection between them. Only that isn't handled well either!! Ugh - frustrating!
My emotions were all over the place with this couple! Swoony, sweet, sad, and holy moley, their chemistry is so very steamy! Whew!!
One of my favorite things about this author is how her character's support each other. It was easy to drop into Blueball and "Glamper's Paradise", and stay a while!! 😏😍 The pages turned themselves and I found myself at the end much too soon for my liking.
It is to your advantage to be well versed in all the Auburn "Hell" stories before beginning this series (so all the references make sense), but not completely a must. So much fun to be found in these pages.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book, and I happily leave my review. I look forward to reading the next creative and entertaining story from this talented author.
August 30, 2023
3.75 stars
3.75 stars
It’s sweet and it’s hot. Just what you expect from Marika Ray. This is the second in this series.
I liked it a lot. Linc was a to die for hero. Attentive. Sexy. Giving. Trustworthy.
But Keva has a hard time trusting. A bitterly hard time. She doesn’t make it easy on Linc. Even though their five lost years were not his fault at all.
One of the things that distressed me about the story was Keva’s quick to anger and unreasonableness.
While she’s had a difficult life, she was difficult for me to like.
3.75 stars
It’s sweet and it’s hot. Just what you expect from Marika Ray. This is the second in this series.
I liked it a lot. Linc was a to die for hero. Attentive. Sexy. Giving. Trustworthy.
But Keva has a hard time trusting. A bitterly hard time. She doesn’t make it easy on Linc. Even though their five lost years were not his fault at all.
One of the things that distressed me about the story was Keva’s quick to anger and unreasonableness.
While she’s had a difficult life, she was difficult for me to like.
August 18, 2023
S'more Than a Feeling is the second book in the Blueball Band of Brothers series by Marika Ray and it's all about second chances and a secret "baby" with Keva and Linc.
There were some snippets about Keva and Linc's story in Grumpy the Bear- the first book in the Blueball series- but I remember these two from their little novella story, Missing Linc, in the Summer Love Anthology from 2021. This novella is pretty much the first few chapters of S'more Than a Feeling- so you're not missing anything if you haven't read it- with just a couple changes that make more sense with the plot of their story as a second chance romance. So if you adore Marika like I do and have already met these lovebirds- just know that there was a little shake up in their initial story.
4.5 ⭐
This book is such a great escape- it's got all the humor and wit that I adore from Marika, a splash of drama and some emotional punches along the way. 5 years ago, Keva and Linc met and had a whirlwind of a day together that came crashing down on them when they come to the realization that Keva's older brother is Linc's best friend from the Army. Lincoln steps away out of respect for his friend, though he never forgets and pines away for Keva while she is left angry, broken hearted and with a secret she hopes to never explain.
I devoured this book. Keva is a strong mama bear when it comes to her son Lucas- and while she is angry, hurt and hopes to never hear Lincoln's name again she is also still hopelessly in love with him. Lincoln had hopes of rekindling things with Keva but he never could have expected to find her so easily or to have her so close in his pursuit. I love how he easily he accepted Lucas as a part of the package with Keva even before realizing that he was in fact a father. When that realization hit... oh lawd... Linc added so much to his swoon factor just diving in with both feet and zero hesitation.
These two have some sizzle in their initial chemistry- and both time and distance in no way snuffed out any of the flame here! Sure, Marika makes us bob through the tension wafting around them for a bit but all the heat is there and I very much enjoy Linc's dirty side 😘
I waffled back and forth between cheering Keva on in her single mama power while also getting a little frustrated with how stubborn and unrelenting she could be toward Linc and her refusal give him an inch because she needed to always be in control. Despite Lincoln's actions basically screaming that he is all in no matter what- even when faced with his own fears, Keva's past kind of pushed her to put a death grip on maintaining that control and I just found myself in this cycle of feeling both frustrated yet relatable.
I hate that now I have to wait for more Blueball!! I cannot wait to see what other fantasticness awaits when we return!
There were some snippets about Keva and Linc's story in Grumpy the Bear- the first book in the Blueball series- but I remember these two from their little novella story, Missing Linc, in the Summer Love Anthology from 2021. This novella is pretty much the first few chapters of S'more Than a Feeling- so you're not missing anything if you haven't read it- with just a couple changes that make more sense with the plot of their story as a second chance romance. So if you adore Marika like I do and have already met these lovebirds- just know that there was a little shake up in their initial story.
4.5 ⭐
This book is such a great escape- it's got all the humor and wit that I adore from Marika, a splash of drama and some emotional punches along the way. 5 years ago, Keva and Linc met and had a whirlwind of a day together that came crashing down on them when they come to the realization that Keva's older brother is Linc's best friend from the Army. Lincoln steps away out of respect for his friend, though he never forgets and pines away for Keva while she is left angry, broken hearted and with a secret she hopes to never explain.
I devoured this book. Keva is a strong mama bear when it comes to her son Lucas- and while she is angry, hurt and hopes to never hear Lincoln's name again she is also still hopelessly in love with him. Lincoln had hopes of rekindling things with Keva but he never could have expected to find her so easily or to have her so close in his pursuit. I love how he easily he accepted Lucas as a part of the package with Keva even before realizing that he was in fact a father. When that realization hit... oh lawd... Linc added so much to his swoon factor just diving in with both feet and zero hesitation.
These two have some sizzle in their initial chemistry- and both time and distance in no way snuffed out any of the flame here! Sure, Marika makes us bob through the tension wafting around them for a bit but all the heat is there and I very much enjoy Linc's dirty side 😘
I waffled back and forth between cheering Keva on in her single mama power while also getting a little frustrated with how stubborn and unrelenting she could be toward Linc and her refusal give him an inch because she needed to always be in control. Despite Lincoln's actions basically screaming that he is all in no matter what- even when faced with his own fears, Keva's past kind of pushed her to put a death grip on maintaining that control and I just found myself in this cycle of feeling both frustrated yet relatable.
I hate that now I have to wait for more Blueball!! I cannot wait to see what other fantasticness awaits when we return!
August 26, 2023
After being discharged from the Army, Lincoln Angelo decides to settle down near his childhood friend Bain in the small town of Auburn Hill, aka Hell. He hasn't even been in town for 24 hours when a prank gone awry ends with a herd of cats on the loose, and he teams up with an attractive new acquaintance, Keva Mooney, to help get them back home. Several hours later, their steamy hookup is interrupted by the surprise arrival of Linc's best friend - and Keva's older brother - Boston, who hadn't realized that his sister had also moved to Auburn Hill. After he punches Linc, Boston makes him promise that he'll stay away from Keva; even though he can't stop thinking about her, Linc agrees. He leaves town to rejoin the Army so that he won't be tempted to pursue her, and several weeks later, what she thought was a stomach virus turns out to be a baby on the way.
Five years later, Lincoln is finally out of the Army for good and headed to one of Auburn Hill's neighboring towns, Blueball, for a job at a glamping resort. He's never forgotten about Keva, so with Boston's blessing, he plans to track her down and ask for another chance. Now that Linc's working for her best friend's husband, it's only a matter of time before they run into each other and he figures out the secret she's been keeping: Lucas, their nearly 4-year-old son. Learning that he's a father makes Linc more determined than ever to win Keva over, but she's afraid to trust him. Can Linc prove to Keva that he won't leave her ever again?
This sweet and swoony story gave me all the feels! I completely understood why Keva was so hesitant to let Linc back into her life, but his desire to be there for her and Lucas was obviously genuine. I loved the way her walls gradually came down as she realized that she didn't have to do everything on her own anymore. The book's secondary characters were also a ton of fun and added a great deal of depth and humor to the story, particularly Keva's best friend Paisley and her husband Gannon. Linc and Gannon ended up developing quite the bromance, which turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the book.
I highly recommend "S'more Than a Feeling" for all steamy rom-com fans and look forward to the next book in the series.
*Review copy provided by the author via Enticing Journey Book Promotions. All opinions expressed are my own.
Five years later, Lincoln is finally out of the Army for good and headed to one of Auburn Hill's neighboring towns, Blueball, for a job at a glamping resort. He's never forgotten about Keva, so with Boston's blessing, he plans to track her down and ask for another chance. Now that Linc's working for her best friend's husband, it's only a matter of time before they run into each other and he figures out the secret she's been keeping: Lucas, their nearly 4-year-old son. Learning that he's a father makes Linc more determined than ever to win Keva over, but she's afraid to trust him. Can Linc prove to Keva that he won't leave her ever again?
This sweet and swoony story gave me all the feels! I completely understood why Keva was so hesitant to let Linc back into her life, but his desire to be there for her and Lucas was obviously genuine. I loved the way her walls gradually came down as she realized that she didn't have to do everything on her own anymore. The book's secondary characters were also a ton of fun and added a great deal of depth and humor to the story, particularly Keva's best friend Paisley and her husband Gannon. Linc and Gannon ended up developing quite the bromance, which turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the book.
I highly recommend "S'more Than a Feeling" for all steamy rom-com fans and look forward to the next book in the series.
*Review copy provided by the author via Enticing Journey Book Promotions. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 9, 2023
“Actions speak louder than words and I plan on shouting.”
S’more Than A Feeling was a fun, flirty, and absolutely delightful read that’s full of small town shenanigans and so much emotion. It’s love at first sight for Lincoln and Keva, but when they find out that Lincoln is Keva’s brother’s best friend, their flirtation ends in heartbreak. It leaves Keva heartbroken, alone and pregnant. When Lincoln returns five years later, all he wants is another chance with Keva, but can Keva open her heart and learn to trust again?
“Sometimes you just need to know enough to welcome someone with open arms. To step off that cliff and trust they’ll catch you.”
Keva was a tough cookie to crack. She had always felt abandoned by those that she loved and she found it hard to trust. Opening her heart and her life and sharing her son was difficult for her, but Lincoln was such a sweetheart and he was determined to show her that he was all in. I loved his determination and persistence and gentleness in showing that he wanted to be there for Keva and their son.
Been in love with you for five years and will love you for another fifty more.”
The flirty, snarky banter between Lincoln and Keva was on point and the chemistry between them was sizzling. I loved watching Lincoln break down Keva’s wall and how he jumped right into taking care of his son. It was adorable. This series is quickly becoming a favorite and I’m excited to see what’s next in the town of Blueball.
S’more Than A Feeling was a fun, flirty, and absolutely delightful read that’s full of small town shenanigans and so much emotion. It’s love at first sight for Lincoln and Keva, but when they find out that Lincoln is Keva’s brother’s best friend, their flirtation ends in heartbreak. It leaves Keva heartbroken, alone and pregnant. When Lincoln returns five years later, all he wants is another chance with Keva, but can Keva open her heart and learn to trust again?
“Sometimes you just need to know enough to welcome someone with open arms. To step off that cliff and trust they’ll catch you.”
Keva was a tough cookie to crack. She had always felt abandoned by those that she loved and she found it hard to trust. Opening her heart and her life and sharing her son was difficult for her, but Lincoln was such a sweetheart and he was determined to show her that he was all in. I loved his determination and persistence and gentleness in showing that he wanted to be there for Keva and their son.
Been in love with you for five years and will love you for another fifty more.”
The flirty, snarky banter between Lincoln and Keva was on point and the chemistry between them was sizzling. I loved watching Lincoln break down Keva’s wall and how he jumped right into taking care of his son. It was adorable. This series is quickly becoming a favorite and I’m excited to see what’s next in the town of Blueball.
August 13, 2023
Keva and Linc come together in an odd series of events. But the connection they feel is instant.
They have a wild day together and Linc is looking for more. However, in walks Boston, aka Tank, Linc’s best friend but Keva’s bother.
Tempers flare and punches are thrown. For the sake of doing what he thinks is right Linc leaves town. But he doesn’t know that Juniper is pregnant.
5 years later he is back in town wanting to make things right and reconnect. She has never left his head or heart. But she’s been struggling as a single mom and is defensive because of their past.
It quickly becomes apparent that the two still have feelings for each other that are growing as they learn about each other. Linc takes to being a father right off the bat and wants to be in both of their lives.
The emotions that they go through break your heart. And you want them to be happy together. They both have immature moments and learn and grow from them.
Keva has to learn to trust again and Linc works hard to prove he is the man she can count on. This is a heartfelt/feel good romance. And has a HEA, along with wonderful side characters.
I enjoyed this read and finished it in less that 24 hours. I received this as an ARC for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
They have a wild day together and Linc is looking for more. However, in walks Boston, aka Tank, Linc’s best friend but Keva’s bother.
Tempers flare and punches are thrown. For the sake of doing what he thinks is right Linc leaves town. But he doesn’t know that Juniper is pregnant.
5 years later he is back in town wanting to make things right and reconnect. She has never left his head or heart. But she’s been struggling as a single mom and is defensive because of their past.
It quickly becomes apparent that the two still have feelings for each other that are growing as they learn about each other. Linc takes to being a father right off the bat and wants to be in both of their lives.
The emotions that they go through break your heart. And you want them to be happy together. They both have immature moments and learn and grow from them.
Keva has to learn to trust again and Linc works hard to prove he is the man she can count on. This is a heartfelt/feel good romance. And has a HEA, along with wonderful side characters.
I enjoyed this read and finished it in less that 24 hours. I received this as an ARC for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
August 16, 2023
POV: Dual
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Even if I wasn't a long time reader of Marika Ray, I would read this book for the title alone! It is just as fun as the title implies, as we get to know the crazy small town in this new series, as well as some little peeks at what my old friends in the town of Hell are doing!
I read a lot of books that are slow burn, but this one *checks notes* has steam from around 9% with a little break before it comes back! It also starts off with the chaos l've come to love from these books. The secret baby trope doesn't bother me as much as it does some people, but I did find myself a little annoyed with Keva and her part in not telling Linc, but not enough to keep me from liking her as a character overall. I feel like she really grew up over the course of this book, with the help of Linc.
Linc is absolutely swoon worthy with the way he fell for Keva from the get go, and he ends up being the sweetest dad. While the brother's best friend aspect of this book plays a big part in why these two are separated in the beginning, it does not end up keeping them apart in present tense and I really appreciated that. Both the spice and laughs in this book are A++ and I can't wait for more of this series!
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Even if I wasn't a long time reader of Marika Ray, I would read this book for the title alone! It is just as fun as the title implies, as we get to know the crazy small town in this new series, as well as some little peeks at what my old friends in the town of Hell are doing!
I read a lot of books that are slow burn, but this one *checks notes* has steam from around 9% with a little break before it comes back! It also starts off with the chaos l've come to love from these books. The secret baby trope doesn't bother me as much as it does some people, but I did find myself a little annoyed with Keva and her part in not telling Linc, but not enough to keep me from liking her as a character overall. I feel like she really grew up over the course of this book, with the help of Linc.
Linc is absolutely swoon worthy with the way he fell for Keva from the get go, and he ends up being the sweetest dad. While the brother's best friend aspect of this book plays a big part in why these two are separated in the beginning, it does not end up keeping them apart in present tense and I really appreciated that. Both the spice and laughs in this book are A++ and I can't wait for more of this series!
August 17, 2023
This was a great second book in the Blueball Band of Brothers series. I have read all the books in Marika Ray’s several series set in Auburn Hill and loved them all and this series is no different.
Even though Keva (Annabelle) and Linc felt an instant connection, Linc left out of loyalty to his best friend (Keva’s brother Boston). Keva thought Linc sent back the letter she sent telling him she was pregnant, and he thought she hid his son from him. They both handled their reunion maturely and Linc was quickly able to build a relationship with his son, Lucas. Even as they both worked to find out the truth of what happened five years ago, they started to build a relationship as a family and a couple. They do eventually find out how he never knew she reached out to him and get their HEA.
The characters are flawed but they are good people who both love their son unconditionally. I love all the side characters from Blueball and Auburn Hill. Marika always includes plenty of humor and steam in her books along with some angst. The side characters and cameos from previous and future couples make each book feel like a visit with old friends.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Even though Keva (Annabelle) and Linc felt an instant connection, Linc left out of loyalty to his best friend (Keva’s brother Boston). Keva thought Linc sent back the letter she sent telling him she was pregnant, and he thought she hid his son from him. They both handled their reunion maturely and Linc was quickly able to build a relationship with his son, Lucas. Even as they both worked to find out the truth of what happened five years ago, they started to build a relationship as a family and a couple. They do eventually find out how he never knew she reached out to him and get their HEA.
The characters are flawed but they are good people who both love their son unconditionally. I love all the side characters from Blueball and Auburn Hill. Marika always includes plenty of humor and steam in her books along with some angst. The side characters and cameos from previous and future couples make each book feel like a visit with old friends.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2023
In this second book set in Blueball, we get Keva and Linc’s story. They spent one amazing day together which ended with Linc taking a beating from Keva’s brother. Unknown to them both, Boston aka Tank is Keva’s brother and Linc’s best friend. When he finds them together, he sees red because that’s his little sister and he knows how they were when first got leave, once and done. Linc and Tank were both out of the Army, but decide to rejoin, so Linc can get away from Keva and respect Tank’s wishes. Five years later, Linc is out and his quest is to find Keva and hopefully get a second chance. He thought of their one day constantly and he wants her in his life. Imagine his surprise when she has a son, Lucas. At first he’s hurt she could be with someone else so soon after being with him, but then he realizes Lucas is his and he gets angry. Grab your copy of this beautifully written story and see if Linc can finally break down Keva’s walls and get his happily ever after with her. I absolutely loved this small town story with the wonderful characters, the steamy times, and the shenanigans.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 24, 2023
S’more Than A Feeling ( Blueball Band Of Brothers book 2 ) so I am typically someone who you will catch reading Dark Themed romances pretty much 95% of the time . But whenever I’m looking to change it up Marika is always my go to author. This really is such a incredible series filled with so many wonderfully written characters and always a storyline that just plays on all your emotions and keeps you hooked from start to finish. This time around we are treated to Lic and Keva’s story . Keva is a single mom - she’s feisty and and a ray of sunshine . Linc is the tattooed bad boy she meets while out one night . They end up hooking up for one passionate night . Only to be surprised later when he not only ends up being her neighbor but her Brothers best friend as well . This definitely leads to many obstacles they have to overcome to be together. In fact the most unfortunate circumstances end up tearing them apart . Will fate be able to bring them back together. Angst , humor , witty banter , love , passion, tragedy, secrets , second chances, heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, family, friendships, drama , great world building and so much more . I just loved loved loved every single moment of this unforgettable and unputdownable love story
August 22, 2023
It was only one day of sperm samples, escapee cats, pizza and hot sex but it left a mark on both of them, in more ways than one.
Circumstances separated them for years, but fate brought them back together.
Linc is a loyal, dirty talking, hot as sin ex-soldier. Basically he was Keva’s Mr. Perfect, until he wasn’t.
Keva is a feisty ray of sunshine that makes him believe he may want more until his best friend shows up on his doorstep to find his little sister wearing Linc’s t-shirt and a smile.
Immerse yourself in their story as he struggles with the difficulties of adapting to civilian life, and forgiving secrets kept, all while trying to convince her that he is all in and wants to be everything she and her son need and she deals with being a single-mom with demons from a difficult past and the burden of abandonment issues. Will she choose to give up control or give up the promise of happily ever after?
At the heart of this story is an exploration of various types of love: the love of a parent for a child, love between partners and the love of true friends.
S’more than a Feeling is a true heartwarming story of love, lost and found again.
Circumstances separated them for years, but fate brought them back together.
Linc is a loyal, dirty talking, hot as sin ex-soldier. Basically he was Keva’s Mr. Perfect, until he wasn’t.
Keva is a feisty ray of sunshine that makes him believe he may want more until his best friend shows up on his doorstep to find his little sister wearing Linc’s t-shirt and a smile.
Immerse yourself in their story as he struggles with the difficulties of adapting to civilian life, and forgiving secrets kept, all while trying to convince her that he is all in and wants to be everything she and her son need and she deals with being a single-mom with demons from a difficult past and the burden of abandonment issues. Will she choose to give up control or give up the promise of happily ever after?
At the heart of this story is an exploration of various types of love: the love of a parent for a child, love between partners and the love of true friends.
S’more than a Feeling is a true heartwarming story of love, lost and found again.
August 26, 2023
“I’ll be your fvck!ng shadow, taking care of you whether you let me in or not.”
I love Marika Ray’s quirky small towns full of characters and the story of Keva and Linc had the perfect amount. The two met one random day while Keva was wrangling cats that escaped and needing to drive a sperm sample to a lab in the city, Linc road in on a yellow moped to save the day and their connection was instant. However, life happened and they spent the following 5 years apart.
After their one night together, Keva had more than just memories but a brand new baby. Since that night, Keva has been raising her son without Linc and she is confident he doesn’t even know that their son exists. One Linc is back in town and discovers Lucas though he is all in.
I loved how dedicated Linc was, he could have been righteously angry for Keva keeping Lucas a secret but he decided he would move forward and get to know Lucas and Keva again. He was a great insta dad and it was clear his feelings for Keva never left. They were adorable and I cannot wait to see who falls next from the Bluebell Band of Brothers.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥: “Now open those knees and slide one hand under the shirt.”
I love Marika Ray’s quirky small towns full of characters and the story of Keva and Linc had the perfect amount. The two met one random day while Keva was wrangling cats that escaped and needing to drive a sperm sample to a lab in the city, Linc road in on a yellow moped to save the day and their connection was instant. However, life happened and they spent the following 5 years apart.
After their one night together, Keva had more than just memories but a brand new baby. Since that night, Keva has been raising her son without Linc and she is confident he doesn’t even know that their son exists. One Linc is back in town and discovers Lucas though he is all in.
I loved how dedicated Linc was, he could have been righteously angry for Keva keeping Lucas a secret but he decided he would move forward and get to know Lucas and Keva again. He was a great insta dad and it was clear his feelings for Keva never left. They were adorable and I cannot wait to see who falls next from the Bluebell Band of Brothers.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥: “Now open those knees and slide one hand under the shirt.”
August 18, 2023
Book two in this series can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
I adored Linc. He faces some surprises in this book, but he always has his heart in the right place and does the best he can when things happen. I love how determined he was to pamper Keva and cherish her and Lucas. I appreciated his mixed feelings, his anger, and most of all- his determination to succeed with his little family.
Keva has been busy as a young single mom. I appreciated how her found family supports her emotionally and practically. I understood her feelings of inadequacy and fear for the future. When she gave Linc a chance, my heart melted. I loved the heat between the characters as well as glimpses of the domesticity they quickly settle into. The sparks they felt when they first met are only hotter now.
This was a fun, feel-good read that made me smile.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
I adored Linc. He faces some surprises in this book, but he always has his heart in the right place and does the best he can when things happen. I love how determined he was to pamper Keva and cherish her and Lucas. I appreciated his mixed feelings, his anger, and most of all- his determination to succeed with his little family.
Keva has been busy as a young single mom. I appreciated how her found family supports her emotionally and practically. I understood her feelings of inadequacy and fear for the future. When she gave Linc a chance, my heart melted. I loved the heat between the characters as well as glimpses of the domesticity they quickly settle into. The sparks they felt when they first met are only hotter now.
This was a fun, feel-good read that made me smile.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
March 13, 2024
Eww this book. Mostly I love this author, but this book is just no.
Lincoln choose to allow Keva's brother push him around, even served another tour just because. While he's gone, Keva was struggling to be a single mother. When he found out (years later of course), he's angry because he thought Keva wasn't trying hard enough.
I mean... You went from retired to active military duty just because you found out the woman you're sleeping with (and instantly love) is your best friend's sister, because your best friend (which is her brother) said so. Not to mention this so called best friend was a lousy brother who run away from his sister despite she needs a legal guardian at the time. Dude! Keva had all the right to hide her son from you! You're a walking red flag!! And how dare he said "You could told Tank!". OMG CAN HE SEE THAT SHE FELT BETRAYED BY HER BROTHER?!
And when Keva's friend try to make how Lincoln was right, I'm out. Skipping so much, surprised there's not much grovelling, and find out nothing could save me give this book a bad star.
Lincoln choose to allow Keva's brother push him around, even served another tour just because. While he's gone, Keva was struggling to be a single mother. When he found out (years later of course), he's angry because he thought Keva wasn't trying hard enough.
I mean... You went from retired to active military duty just because you found out the woman you're sleeping with (and instantly love) is your best friend's sister, because your best friend (which is her brother) said so. Not to mention this so called best friend was a lousy brother who run away from his sister despite she needs a legal guardian at the time. Dude! Keva had all the right to hide her son from you! You're a walking red flag!! And how dare he said "You could told Tank!". OMG CAN HE SEE THAT SHE FELT BETRAYED BY HER BROTHER?!
And when Keva's friend try to make how Lincoln was right, I'm out. Skipping so much, surprised there's not much grovelling, and find out nothing could save me give this book a bad star.
August 24, 2023
Keva shared one unforgettable night with Linc before it all came crashing down when they realized that his best friend was her brother. The aftereffects ensured that there was no further contact between them even when she found out she was pregnant with his child. She decided to leave him in the past where he belonged and has been focused on being the mother her son Lucas needed her to be until several years later fate brings them together once again.
Linc believed the best thing he could do for Keva was to distance himself from her. Years later he returns to find the woman that he has been unable to forget but between their individual pasts and the past they shared they are in for a bumpy ride.
Neither Keva nor Linc have truly moved on from each other and there is no denying they are meant to be together as they take us on a humorous and romantic journey with all the feels.
Linc believed the best thing he could do for Keva was to distance himself from her. Years later he returns to find the woman that he has been unable to forget but between their individual pasts and the past they shared they are in for a bumpy ride.
Neither Keva nor Linc have truly moved on from each other and there is no denying they are meant to be together as they take us on a humorous and romantic journey with all the feels.
August 7, 2023
Keva has been abandoned all her life. Her parents died when she was young. Then her 18 year old brother abandoned her to a distant alcoholic uncle, who abandoned her to the foster care system. When she decides to have uninhibited sex with a guy she just met, she is exhilarated - until her brother shows up and punches him out.
When she turns up pregnant and the wonderful, sexy stranger, who also happens to be her brother's best friend, returns her letter, she decides that she's OK on her own, raising the baby with all that she can muster. When my wonderful shows up, years later, she's not about to trust him with their little boy and certainly not her heart. Even though he's really a sweetheart who will do everything and anything to become a family.
This is a very sexy book, so I recommend it for mature readers
When she turns up pregnant and the wonderful, sexy stranger, who also happens to be her brother's best friend, returns her letter, she decides that she's OK on her own, raising the baby with all that she can muster. When my wonderful shows up, years later, she's not about to trust him with their little boy and certainly not her heart. Even though he's really a sweetheart who will do everything and anything to become a family.
This is a very sexy book, so I recommend it for mature readers
August 9, 2023
This book really started with absolute mayhem! A prank, loose cats, a detoured delivery of a sperm sample, a yellow scooter and a tiny pig. All of this leads to an ill-fated one night stand that will leave Keva pregnant and Linc back to the army until fate brings them and their son back together again.
This is an entertaining story with a lot of great side characters and a feel-good HEA guaranteed. If you loved Gannon in book 1 of this series, catch him here starting a band and talking to squirrels.
Honestly the only thing I wanted more of in this book was extended teacup pig content. Keva is a fantastic MC, surrounded by supportive friends that you will love, and Linc is the baby-daddy of your dreams.
Can’t wait for the next book in the series! Thanks to the publishers for this ARC!
This is an entertaining story with a lot of great side characters and a feel-good HEA guaranteed. If you loved Gannon in book 1 of this series, catch him here starting a band and talking to squirrels.
Honestly the only thing I wanted more of in this book was extended teacup pig content. Keva is a fantastic MC, surrounded by supportive friends that you will love, and Linc is the baby-daddy of your dreams.
Can’t wait for the next book in the series! Thanks to the publishers for this ARC!
August 25, 2023
Linc and Keva have a fantastic meet-cute, true rom-com gold. They have one great night together and then are rudely interrupted – for five years. I will say straight up, I think the setup for the separation requires a suspension of disbelief, but once past that…Linc comes back to town hoping to pick up where they left off, having gotten Keva’s brother’s blessing, but Keva is not so forgiving.
And Keva has a secret.
I did enjoy that neither participant’s feelings were belittled. There was a huge misunderstanding and both of them contributed, but Keva had some serious trust issues and I loved that Linc set his mind to winning her and was just as supportive and lovely as a man could be. Lucas was adorable, too. And the Glampground plays a role, as well as other old friends from Hell. This was another great beach read from Marika with a perfect HEA.
And Keva has a secret.
I did enjoy that neither participant’s feelings were belittled. There was a huge misunderstanding and both of them contributed, but Keva had some serious trust issues and I loved that Linc set his mind to winning her and was just as supportive and lovely as a man could be. Lucas was adorable, too. And the Glampground plays a role, as well as other old friends from Hell. This was another great beach read from Marika with a perfect HEA.
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