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Heat
What do you get when you throw a burly blacksmith and the town's poster child for clumsiness together? A whole lot of swearing and a threatening use of duct tape. And the need to construct a sign that reads, "DO NOT LET CAMPBELL NEAR THE FORGE!" Alabaster Falls' local blacksmith, Daughtry Blackburn, was satisfied with his reclusive status. He had iron to bend and orders to fill but he knew he needed something to take the business to the next level. His father had fought taking their business into the twenty-first century, but since he'd passed, it was up to Daughtry to keep things forward moving and he knew there was no way to do so without being on the World Wide Web. Metalworking, he got. Computers, not so much. Campbell Jenkins was desperate to be accepted by his peers in the little town he'd called home since birth. Problem was, he was accident-prone. Not just in the sense of an occasional break here or there, but in a "can't walk by glass without it shattering - even when it seemed he was a mile away" type of thing. No matter how hard he tried to fit in, this curse led to failure. Forced to stay stuck inside the walls of the home his grandmother left him, he spent his time learning all he could about computers and social media. His online friends never cast him aside--too bad the real world wasn't as kind. When he answers an ad in the local paper for online marketing assistance, he wasn't sure what to expect. Least of all, the brawny man answering the door to a log cabin that had seen better days. Can two opposites in forced proximity learn to play nicely or will one wind up in an iron grave?
242 pages, Paperback
Published August 25, 2023
79 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
T.L. Travis
94 books628 followersTL Travis is the published author of a plethora of LGBTQ+ Erotica and Romance musings that have earned her a “Best Selling Author” flag in the US as well as Internationally.
In her spare time, when she’s not weaving steamy webs, she enjoys fishing, wine tasting and people watching. Everyone has a story to tell, half the fun is conjuring what it is.
TL’s surrounded by her 4-legged rescue family, her sons and adorable grandson.
She will continue saving furry friends in need for as long as she can. Tl would like to remind you to “Adopt, not shop.” Saving that lost soul may very well save yours.
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In her spare time, when she’s not weaving steamy webs, she enjoys fishing, wine tasting and people watching. Everyone has a story to tell, half the fun is conjuring what it is.
TL’s surrounded by her 4-legged rescue family, her sons and adorable grandson.
She will continue saving furry friends in need for as long as she can. Tl would like to remind you to “Adopt, not shop.” Saving that lost soul may very well save yours.
tltravis@tltravis.com
https://www.tltravis.com
https://www.facebook.com/groups/56449...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/20546...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/54276...
https://www.Twitter.com/tltravis1
https://www.amazon.com/TL-Travis/e/B0...
Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/search?q=TL+T...
https://www.queeromanceink.com/mbm-bo...
https://www.goodreads.com/goodreadsco...
https://www.pinterest.com/tl1474
https://www.instagram.com/TLTravis1
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/tl-tr...
https://www.queeromanceink.com/?s=TL+...
https://www.authorgraph.com/authors/t...
https://www.tiktok.com/@tltravisauthor
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVMT...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
May 30, 2022
Right from the beginning, my heartstrings were pulled, Campbell is lonely, just looking for a friend to talk to.
He got online friends, getting his way around the digital world, but that’s it. This small town doesn't want him.
Blackburn Iron Works had been in the family for generations, Daughtry lives for iron, which he can handle, not the paper and advertising work needed to keep the business rolling.
When Campbell understands Blackburn Iron Works needs an office manager he applies.
“Ain’t you that guy that runs through town breaking things?”
Okay, their first encounter didn’t go well. To get Campbell working for him he had to go on his knees.
Campbell thought everything gone right, that he even got a friend, his only, but Daughtry acts strange, is grumpy, talks almost none and it’s driving Campbell nuts.
Until he understands why.
Both guys were lonely, ‘were’ because they found each other and oh boy that was everything!
The business goes extremely well, thanks to Campbell.
Sweet lord, what a great story, we’ve got two guys, a big burly protective blacksmith and a small feisty creative companion, both inexperienced with love, one is a virgin and one just had hookups. The way they talked and act, it was so heartwarming sweet.
It was fun with crazy dramatic meddling citizens. The business part was quite original btw. Both guys are utterly adorable, there’s a palpable amount of hurt comfort, and even a bigger amount of sweetness, well done! Both guys were charming, it warmed my heart, two lonely souls finding their one, their forever.
An awesomely written story, I adored it.
He got online friends, getting his way around the digital world, but that’s it. This small town doesn't want him.
Blackburn Iron Works had been in the family for generations, Daughtry lives for iron, which he can handle, not the paper and advertising work needed to keep the business rolling.
When Campbell understands Blackburn Iron Works needs an office manager he applies.
“Ain’t you that guy that runs through town breaking things?”
Okay, their first encounter didn’t go well. To get Campbell working for him he had to go on his knees.
Campbell thought everything gone right, that he even got a friend, his only, but Daughtry acts strange, is grumpy, talks almost none and it’s driving Campbell nuts.
Until he understands why.
Both guys were lonely, ‘were’ because they found each other and oh boy that was everything!
The business goes extremely well, thanks to Campbell.
Sweet lord, what a great story, we’ve got two guys, a big burly protective blacksmith and a small feisty creative companion, both inexperienced with love, one is a virgin and one just had hookups. The way they talked and act, it was so heartwarming sweet.
It was fun with crazy dramatic meddling citizens. The business part was quite original btw. Both guys are utterly adorable, there’s a palpable amount of hurt comfort, and even a bigger amount of sweetness, well done! Both guys were charming, it warmed my heart, two lonely souls finding their one, their forever.
An awesomely written story, I adored it.
April 22, 2023
Read for the ABC's of Love Readalong.
2.5 stars
1 on the spice scale
2.5 stars
1 on the spice scale
May 23, 2022
It’s not easy to find love and to feel like you belong when you are the town misfit. But when you find another misfit…the two men figure out that having someone in your corner, who believes in you and loves you, can change everything.
They are pretty cute together and they got a really lovely ending.
As expected from a TL Travis novel, it’s a sweet story with lots of witty humour, healing, and beautiful love.
< ARC provided and this is my honest review >
They are pretty cute together and they got a really lovely ending.
As expected from a TL Travis novel, it’s a sweet story with lots of witty humour, healing, and beautiful love.
< ARC provided and this is my honest review >
May 26, 2022
4 Stars!
This is a sweet story with a slow building relationship between two people in a small town. Campbell is incredibly self-sufficient, even as he gets hurt or breaks things easily. He's known as the town klutz, and no one really gives him a chance to prove himself or show his talents. Daughtry is the town blacksmith who keeps to himself. He learned his trade from his father but wants to expand his business and sell the forged artwork that his father didn't think would sell.
While their first meeting didn't go well, I loved that they worked things out and tried again. I loved how they eventually built a new business venture together and found a way for them both to contribute and make it work. I loved that once Daughtry knew what he wanted, he didn't back down from showing Campbell and the town that they were together. While I wasn't thrilled the townspeople didn't see Campbell in a good light before, I enjoyed them taking a step back and being helpful after Daughtry points out to one of them how they treat Campbell.
I liked how Campbell helped Daugherty realize that he had let so many things go, which gave him the courage to move forward after his father's death. I liked how Daugherty cared for Campbell and didn't judge his many moments of minor injuries. These two brought out the best in each other and accepted each other in a way few had before. It was lovely to see.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
This is a sweet story with a slow building relationship between two people in a small town. Campbell is incredibly self-sufficient, even as he gets hurt or breaks things easily. He's known as the town klutz, and no one really gives him a chance to prove himself or show his talents. Daughtry is the town blacksmith who keeps to himself. He learned his trade from his father but wants to expand his business and sell the forged artwork that his father didn't think would sell.
While their first meeting didn't go well, I loved that they worked things out and tried again. I loved how they eventually built a new business venture together and found a way for them both to contribute and make it work. I loved that once Daughtry knew what he wanted, he didn't back down from showing Campbell and the town that they were together. While I wasn't thrilled the townspeople didn't see Campbell in a good light before, I enjoyed them taking a step back and being helpful after Daughtry points out to one of them how they treat Campbell.
I liked how Campbell helped Daugherty realize that he had let so many things go, which gave him the courage to move forward after his father's death. I liked how Daugherty cared for Campbell and didn't judge his many moments of minor injuries. These two brought out the best in each other and accepted each other in a way few had before. It was lovely to see.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
June 7, 2022
Heat is part of the ABC’s of Love series. Campbell is lonely, his online community of friends are there for him to talk to. Daughtry needs to get his business rolling so he ends up hiring Campbell. I adored Campbell and Daughtry!! I loved the build up in their relationship!! Seriously fun to watch them fall in love!! Overall, a sweet read with two lonely guys finding each other. Well written with great pacing.
May 26, 2022
I went in this blind and didn't even realize it was MM until I started reading. It was great! I couldn't put it down. Daughtry and Campbell are opposites but work well together and I loved getting to see them open up to each other.
May 27, 2022
Ok read
I didn't love it or hate it, but it just was kind of flat. I like to feel invested in the characters & story & I just didn't get that with Daughtry & Campbell. It could also do with a bit more editing as there are a lot of little errors where the wrong word is used or a word is left out or extra word added in where it shouldn't be, & other small issues like that which throws me off when reading. It was just ok.
I didn't love it or hate it, but it just was kind of flat. I like to feel invested in the characters & story & I just didn't get that with Daughtry & Campbell. It could also do with a bit more editing as there are a lot of little errors where the wrong word is used or a word is left out or extra word added in where it shouldn't be, & other small issues like that which throws me off when reading. It was just ok.
June 7, 2022
I enjoyed reading how 2 misfits started a business, became friends then lovers. They completed each other.
Daughtery was very protective of Campbell.
Daughtery was very protective of Campbell.
October 30, 2024
This was such a great book; I couldn't out it down. Campbell & Daughtry were so sweet together. They both had things that hurt them in the past and I loved seeing how they were exactly what they other needed. It was a story or discovery & acceptance that I absolutely loved. This was completely different from TL Travis' usual stories, but was written just as beautifully as her other works. This will be a definite reread.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
June 3, 2022
The temperature rises in small town Alabaster Falls, Virginia as the local klutz and reclusive blacksmith forge a path that neither saw coming in Heat by TL Travis. As the “only” gay man in town meets the town’s thirty-year-old virgin, a rightness sets in while slow-burn, self-discovery, and momentary delf-doubt light the way. Heat is part of the multi-author ABCs of Love series but stands on its own.
The town menace, Campbell Jenkins, honors his grandma and grandpa everyday… using the wisdom of life they instilled in him. He’s unable to catch a break in a town that only sees trouble on the horizon when he is present, rightfully so. What they don’t see is the special person behind all the drama he creates. The man that is self-sufficient, giving, kind and only seeks to find lifelong happiness.
Since the passing of his father, gorgeous lumberjack Daughtry Blackburn, whittles his days away forging in the family blacksmith shop. The town calls upon him for utilitarian items like fences and what not. What they don’t see is the beautiful art he creates that has been piling up all over the years. Daughtry has a vision to get his art out there but no clue how to go about it. His shyness, lack of knowledge about technology, and this thing called the world wide web, hinder him further.
Campbell has exhausted every opportunity for employment in Alabaster Falls losing one job after another with his innate ability to cause commotion. Just as Campbell considers leaving Alabaster Falls and his grandparents’ legacy behind, he spies a fresh ad on the post office bulletin board – Wanted, internet guru to set up online website. Call Daughtry Blackburn.
Campbell has an instinctive ability for technology and organization and an internet guru is right up his alley. Well… Campbell’s hopes are shattered when he meets the hunk of a man, Daughtry, and he storms home furious with the dismissal he has come to expect from the townsfolk. But a knock at his door a few hours later sets off a chain of events that ultimately joins the town’s two loners together.
Heat is sweet and low angst in a small town that could have seen its share of discrimination and bullying. Except for a wee encounter with the town troublemaker, the townsfolk quietly accept Daughtry and Campbell’s relationship. For once there is no drama surrounding Campbell as they are treated no differently than anyone else in town. Because of their strength, the town also gets to see other couples who have a history with the town, become their true selves as well. If only the real world was more like Alabaster Falls!
The town menace, Campbell Jenkins, honors his grandma and grandpa everyday… using the wisdom of life they instilled in him. He’s unable to catch a break in a town that only sees trouble on the horizon when he is present, rightfully so. What they don’t see is the special person behind all the drama he creates. The man that is self-sufficient, giving, kind and only seeks to find lifelong happiness.
Since the passing of his father, gorgeous lumberjack Daughtry Blackburn, whittles his days away forging in the family blacksmith shop. The town calls upon him for utilitarian items like fences and what not. What they don’t see is the beautiful art he creates that has been piling up all over the years. Daughtry has a vision to get his art out there but no clue how to go about it. His shyness, lack of knowledge about technology, and this thing called the world wide web, hinder him further.
Campbell has exhausted every opportunity for employment in Alabaster Falls losing one job after another with his innate ability to cause commotion. Just as Campbell considers leaving Alabaster Falls and his grandparents’ legacy behind, he spies a fresh ad on the post office bulletin board – Wanted, internet guru to set up online website. Call Daughtry Blackburn.
Campbell has an instinctive ability for technology and organization and an internet guru is right up his alley. Well… Campbell’s hopes are shattered when he meets the hunk of a man, Daughtry, and he storms home furious with the dismissal he has come to expect from the townsfolk. But a knock at his door a few hours later sets off a chain of events that ultimately joins the town’s two loners together.
Heat is sweet and low angst in a small town that could have seen its share of discrimination and bullying. Except for a wee encounter with the town troublemaker, the townsfolk quietly accept Daughtry and Campbell’s relationship. For once there is no drama surrounding Campbell as they are treated no differently than anyone else in town. Because of their strength, the town also gets to see other couples who have a history with the town, become their true selves as well. If only the real world was more like Alabaster Falls!
July 20, 2023
2.5⭐️
This was fine; really sweet overall, but a bit clunky and disjointed as well. It could have used a few more passes through editing, and the down-home country dialogue is…something. As a southern girl, sometimes these books are gosh darn silly-willy with how characters talk. But hey, all we southerners aren’t a monolith so maybe some small town folks somewhere speak with an inconsistent country speech pattern similar to the one in this book.
I’m assuming the book is called “Heat” bc it takes place mostly in a smithy as there is no heat between the MCs. IMO they’re compatible, make great partners and would be awesome roomies and cuddle buddies but lack any real chemistry. However, they are sympathetic and likeable enough. Both abandoned by their mothers and without the loved ones that raised them, Daughtry and Campbell are both alone, two men on opposite sides of the loner scale. While Campbell is the isolated, mistreated misfit that practically everyone either ignores or despises, Daughtry is a loner by choice who is so well loved, everyone is trying to marry him off so he can pass on his awesome genes.
He and Campbell get off to a rough start when Campbell applies to Daughtry’s “tech guru” job posting, but soon Campbell is an indispensable part of his business. Both men are attracted to each other, but Daughtry always thought he was straight so his interest in Campbell is a shock to him. Outside of a few bumps, they navigate a romantic relationship just fine. As for secondary characters, the townsfolks seem like they’re whatever the story needs them to be—mean to Campbell, overly invested in Daughtry and completely cool and progressive when it comes to their relationship.
As with many of these small town stories, once someone the town respects claims the black sheep, suddenly everyone treats them like an actual person and the town’s shitty behavior is forgotten. The ending is all very feel good, so feel good in fact that it throws in a surprise that’s supposed to pull on the heartstrings but happens so late even the MC doesn’t know what to make of it/have time to process. I can see this being a nice dose of fluffy, baby gay fun for others.
This was fine; really sweet overall, but a bit clunky and disjointed as well. It could have used a few more passes through editing, and the down-home country dialogue is…something. As a southern girl, sometimes these books are gosh darn silly-willy with how characters talk. But hey, all we southerners aren’t a monolith so maybe some small town folks somewhere speak with an inconsistent country speech pattern similar to the one in this book.
I’m assuming the book is called “Heat” bc it takes place mostly in a smithy as there is no heat between the MCs. IMO they’re compatible, make great partners and would be awesome roomies and cuddle buddies but lack any real chemistry. However, they are sympathetic and likeable enough. Both abandoned by their mothers and without the loved ones that raised them, Daughtry and Campbell are both alone, two men on opposite sides of the loner scale. While Campbell is the isolated, mistreated misfit that practically everyone either ignores or despises, Daughtry is a loner by choice who is so well loved, everyone is trying to marry him off so he can pass on his awesome genes.
He and Campbell get off to a rough start when Campbell applies to Daughtry’s “tech guru” job posting, but soon Campbell is an indispensable part of his business. Both men are attracted to each other, but Daughtry always thought he was straight so his interest in Campbell is a shock to him. Outside of a few bumps, they navigate a romantic relationship just fine. As for secondary characters, the townsfolks seem like they’re whatever the story needs them to be—mean to Campbell, overly invested in Daughtry and completely cool and progressive when it comes to their relationship.
As with many of these small town stories, once someone the town respects claims the black sheep, suddenly everyone treats them like an actual person and the town’s shitty behavior is forgotten. The ending is all very feel good, so feel good in fact that it throws in a surprise that’s supposed to pull on the heartstrings but happens so late even the MC doesn’t know what to make of it/have time to process. I can see this being a nice dose of fluffy, baby gay fun for others.
June 7, 2022
Campbell has worn his welcome out at every job he's ever had he has a reputation he breaks things harms himself and may be capable of setting things on fire but the truth is he's lonely his mom abandoned him and his grandmother who raised him is gone and he's gay so finding someone in his small town is difficult maybe all those mistakes are just him wanting friendship and something more.
Daughtry is approaching 30 and his small town keeps trying to find him a wife he doesn't want one he's not sure what he wants except to start making his art sell but he needs someone who knows computers he's a real Neanderthal when it comes to technology give him a forge and a piece of metal and he's good.
Daughtry and Campbell's first meeting isn't great but eventually they find they have allot in common and that they are what the other needs. This book has potential but there was a definite need for editing also it was a bit wordy in the beginning Campbell and Daughtery story got bogged down by all the extra stuff this is a light romance not a lot of angst and there are only a couple of steamy scenes. This is just a so so read for me it was just okay as a romance read so I'm giving it 3.75 stars.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
Daughtry is approaching 30 and his small town keeps trying to find him a wife he doesn't want one he's not sure what he wants except to start making his art sell but he needs someone who knows computers he's a real Neanderthal when it comes to technology give him a forge and a piece of metal and he's good.
Daughtry and Campbell's first meeting isn't great but eventually they find they have allot in common and that they are what the other needs. This book has potential but there was a definite need for editing also it was a bit wordy in the beginning Campbell and Daughtery story got bogged down by all the extra stuff this is a light romance not a lot of angst and there are only a couple of steamy scenes. This is just a so so read for me it was just okay as a romance read so I'm giving it 3.75 stars.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
June 28, 2022
I simply adore stories where the MCs are burly guys! There’s not enough of these characters! That front cover is to die for for me. Love the fact that one character is not your perfect stereotypical gay man! Campbell isn’t and it’s perfect for me! Pun intended!
This story was about Daughtry Blackburn, the local blacksmith who was in need of an online marketing assistant. Comes in the picture is Campbell Jenkin who’s a whiz with a computer. The only drawback to Campbell is he’s a huge accident prone guy. It certainly would put Daughtry on notice especially when there’s stuff to do the blacksmith job and it’d be dangerous with Campbell around. However, Daughtry decided to give him a chance. That’s where a budding romance developed between them. Daughtry was very good with making/welding things into awesome sculptures and such. Campbell was able to come up with a great design of the website to showcase all that Daughtry would make. This is such a wonderful and endearing story that I think you would enjoy if you picked the book up and read it! Definitely a gay hallmarkesque type of TV movie! It deserves more than 5 stars out of 5 for me!
This story was about Daughtry Blackburn, the local blacksmith who was in need of an online marketing assistant. Comes in the picture is Campbell Jenkin who’s a whiz with a computer. The only drawback to Campbell is he’s a huge accident prone guy. It certainly would put Daughtry on notice especially when there’s stuff to do the blacksmith job and it’d be dangerous with Campbell around. However, Daughtry decided to give him a chance. That’s where a budding romance developed between them. Daughtry was very good with making/welding things into awesome sculptures and such. Campbell was able to come up with a great design of the website to showcase all that Daughtry would make. This is such a wonderful and endearing story that I think you would enjoy if you picked the book up and read it! Definitely a gay hallmarkesque type of TV movie! It deserves more than 5 stars out of 5 for me!
May 26, 2022
This novel is part of the authors ABCs Of Love series, but can be read standalone and it has no cliffhanger ending.
In a small town Campbell is a bit of an outsider. The only gay man there he's gotten used to not fitting in, and his general clumsiness doesn't help either.
When he spots a sign for an Internet guru in the local shop Campbell meets Daughtry, the towns blacksmith and a friendship builds between them as Campbell helps him create a website. But then feelings start to enter the picture.
This story contains swearing and sexual content as well as a m/m romance, so if that's something you don't mind then this might be a book for you.
Told in both viewpoints of Campbell and Daughtry it is easy to like and care about their journey. This is a new author for me but I enjoyed the writing so would try another book in the future. Daughtrys journey from being a bit of a recluse to figuring out who he is, is a good one to read, and might really help a reader who is pondering their own sexual identity.
I enjoyed this read and read it quickly.
In a small town Campbell is a bit of an outsider. The only gay man there he's gotten used to not fitting in, and his general clumsiness doesn't help either.
When he spots a sign for an Internet guru in the local shop Campbell meets Daughtry, the towns blacksmith and a friendship builds between them as Campbell helps him create a website. But then feelings start to enter the picture.
This story contains swearing and sexual content as well as a m/m romance, so if that's something you don't mind then this might be a book for you.
Told in both viewpoints of Campbell and Daughtry it is easy to like and care about their journey. This is a new author for me but I enjoyed the writing so would try another book in the future. Daughtrys journey from being a bit of a recluse to figuring out who he is, is a good one to read, and might really help a reader who is pondering their own sexual identity.
I enjoyed this read and read it quickly.
May 30, 2022
Sweet small town romance
Campbell is the town klutz, Daughtry the loner blacksmith, small town misfits finding each other through a job advert. They don't have the greatest start but quickly find that they have more in common than they thought, and that they work so well together. Daughtry's business really takes off once Campbell builds him a website and as their working relationship develops into a real partnership, so does their personal relationship too.
Seeing Campbell fall in love with the man-mountain blacksmith, recognising how sad and sweet the man really is, was lovely but seeing Daughtry realise so many truths about himself and his life was even more rewarding. Daughtry saw all the good in the lonely little ray of sunshine that everybody in the town had written off, and Campbell charmed his way into Daughtry's heart without even trying. They were perfect for each other, and watching them build a business and a life together made for easy reading. This was a story that made me smile a lot, especially at the end which was just right for their HEA.
Campbell is the town klutz, Daughtry the loner blacksmith, small town misfits finding each other through a job advert. They don't have the greatest start but quickly find that they have more in common than they thought, and that they work so well together. Daughtry's business really takes off once Campbell builds him a website and as their working relationship develops into a real partnership, so does their personal relationship too.
Seeing Campbell fall in love with the man-mountain blacksmith, recognising how sad and sweet the man really is, was lovely but seeing Daughtry realise so many truths about himself and his life was even more rewarding. Daughtry saw all the good in the lonely little ray of sunshine that everybody in the town had written off, and Campbell charmed his way into Daughtry's heart without even trying. They were perfect for each other, and watching them build a business and a life together made for easy reading. This was a story that made me smile a lot, especially at the end which was just right for their HEA.
June 1, 2022
4.25 Stars!
Campbell is an adorkable klutz, not very liked by the people in Alabaster Falls for being gay and an accident waiting to happen, he's great with computers, though. When he finds an ad for an online marketing assistant, he thinks it's perfect for him, but his first encounter with Daughtry Blackburn (the blacksmith business's owner) doesn't go all that well. After Daughtry apologizes, they have a re-do, and with Campbell's help, Daughtry's business flourishes and Campbell finally finds a place where he is needed and makes a friend, and maybe more.
Campbell and Daughtry were so adorable and perfect for each other. It was great to see them becoming friends and later, lovers. They just fit perfectly together. And I adored the business side, too, which was well-balanced with Campbell and Daughtry's friendship and romance.
This was a very low-angst, sweet read that left me smiling like a loon with that gorgeous ending! Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Campbell is an adorkable klutz, not very liked by the people in Alabaster Falls for being gay and an accident waiting to happen, he's great with computers, though. When he finds an ad for an online marketing assistant, he thinks it's perfect for him, but his first encounter with Daughtry Blackburn (the blacksmith business's owner) doesn't go all that well. After Daughtry apologizes, they have a re-do, and with Campbell's help, Daughtry's business flourishes and Campbell finally finds a place where he is needed and makes a friend, and maybe more.
Campbell and Daughtry were so adorable and perfect for each other. It was great to see them becoming friends and later, lovers. They just fit perfectly together. And I adored the business side, too, which was well-balanced with Campbell and Daughtry's friendship and romance.
This was a very low-angst, sweet read that left me smiling like a loon with that gorgeous ending! Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
June 1, 2022
A GAY FOR YOU STEAMY ROMANCE!
Oh my word this story cracked me up! I laughed and chuckled at poor Campbell with all his accident prone shenanigans but then was sad at how the townsfolk of Alabaster Falls treated him without wanting to know the sweet, intelligent soul that is hiding behind all that nervousness, but that all changed when he answered an add posted at the post office notice board in person....
The dynamic between Campbell Jenkins and Doughtry Blackburn started off bad on their first meeting but was redeemed when Doughtry went to apologise for his bad behavior and that is where the friendship started for two kindred spirits who were destined to meet, fall in love and change their sleepy outdated town for the better....
It was a sweet, funny and steamy story regarding a gay for you giant of a teddy bear blacksmith and his sassy sprite of an internet guru!
i loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oh my word this story cracked me up! I laughed and chuckled at poor Campbell with all his accident prone shenanigans but then was sad at how the townsfolk of Alabaster Falls treated him without wanting to know the sweet, intelligent soul that is hiding behind all that nervousness, but that all changed when he answered an add posted at the post office notice board in person....
The dynamic between Campbell Jenkins and Doughtry Blackburn started off bad on their first meeting but was redeemed when Doughtry went to apologise for his bad behavior and that is where the friendship started for two kindred spirits who were destined to meet, fall in love and change their sleepy outdated town for the better....
It was a sweet, funny and steamy story regarding a gay for you giant of a teddy bear blacksmith and his sassy sprite of an internet guru!
i loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2023
A lot of things didn't make sense in this story, starting with the fact that Campbell was described as a walking disaster, causing damage and chaos with every step he takes but then, once he meets Daughtry the blacksmith, all that happens is that he gets entangled in some packaging material while being perfect managing the business, creating websites and organizing all sales while planning to remodel the house, while before he was supposedly not even able to handle a simple cash register,without distroying the whole place.
It was an easy read as everything just magically fell into place, without anyone of the main characters having to do anything. They were just so perfect for each other, of course there even had to be that wonderful family reunion towards the end, it was all too easy, to constructed, just too much....
Sweet read, but not more than that. Average 3 star read for me.
It was an easy read as everything just magically fell into place, without anyone of the main characters having to do anything. They were just so perfect for each other, of course there even had to be that wonderful family reunion towards the end, it was all too easy, to constructed, just too much....
Sweet read, but not more than that. Average 3 star read for me.
December 27, 2023
okay story, needs a proofreader
It had so much potential but I struggled to get through. It badly needs to be run through a grammar checker because there are words missing from sentences, run on sentences, improper use of some words, etc. Really detracted from the story.
Also, on many occasion, the townsfolk praised Daughtry and told him how proud his father would be with him but not a one EVER said anything similar to Campbell. Not once. Not even when they knew how hard he was working and all that he was accomplishing. They never had a nice thing to say about him.
Too, I hated that Daughtry often said something and then Campbell turned around and asked him about it as if he hadn’t been paying attention. Like, Daughtry would say he made something and then was asked if he’d made it.
It had so much potential but I struggled to get through. It badly needs to be run through a grammar checker because there are words missing from sentences, run on sentences, improper use of some words, etc. Really detracted from the story.
Also, on many occasion, the townsfolk praised Daughtry and told him how proud his father would be with him but not a one EVER said anything similar to Campbell. Not once. Not even when they knew how hard he was working and all that he was accomplishing. They never had a nice thing to say about him.
Too, I hated that Daughtry often said something and then Campbell turned around and asked him about it as if he hadn’t been paying attention. Like, Daughtry would say he made something and then was asked if he’d made it.
May 22, 2022
Sweet story, low angst. Life in a small town as a gay man. Campbell is a menace because he’s so clumsy. It’s just because he’s so overwhelmed by everything when he’s not at home. ADHD much? At least he knows who and what he is, and what he needs to do to make his life better.
Daughtry is so very different. He has his place and is settled in it. He wants more, too, though. He’s different in that he doesn’t know how to make it happen.
I worried about the men in the small town setting, especially when Norman showed up. Bullies are too much part of life in many places like that. That’s not the case here, thank goodness.
It was great seeing the guys find their way to each other and to be bigger parts of their home town. I enjoyed it!
Daughtry is so very different. He has his place and is settled in it. He wants more, too, though. He’s different in that he doesn’t know how to make it happen.
I worried about the men in the small town setting, especially when Norman showed up. Bullies are too much part of life in many places like that. That’s not the case here, thank goodness.
It was great seeing the guys find their way to each other and to be bigger parts of their home town. I enjoyed it!
May 24, 2022
Daughtry and Campbell"s book will give you all the feels. Campbell gray, loner, klutz, wanting a job, and wanting some one to love him for him. Daughtry shy, works with iron, not looking for anything, and needing help with his business. The first time they meet doesn't go well after a few apologies, Campbell start to work for him. As time goes on their feelings start to change but, when the sparks fly after their first kiss will that be all or will they be able to be more? Right from the start this book pulled me right in. Each page I read pull more emotions out of me. Some made me laugh, some and me want to cry, the more I read the more I fell for these two. I was totally enthralled and didn't want this book to end. An amazing read and I can't wait to read what this author has next.
May 26, 2022
This is the first time I’ve read this author and it will not be the last. She has well developed characters and her storyline is intriguing, thoughtful and entertaining. Campbell is the only game in town and he is a menace to everyone around him, but not intentionally. He is so accident prone he stays in his house for days on end because he doesn’t want to cause havoc in town. Daughtry is established and knows what he wants out of his life but he just doesn’t know how to go about accomplishing it. They team up and at first Campbell thinks it’s a joke because no one in town ever gives him a chance to prove himself but Daughtry is different and he doesn’t listen to the rumors going on around town. Feeling to start to develop between the two but Daughtry is hesitant because he’s never had a relationship before and Campbell is a man. Will they work out? Will Campbell get his HEA?
May 30, 2022
It's a good read with characters that I did enjoy. Campbell and Daughtry have lived their lives in the same small town but with their age difference weren't in the same circles. Campbell is known as a klutz, feels like he's not wanted, doesn't fit in and he's ready to start a new life. My heart did go out to him, those struggles and how he felt came through the pages. Daughtry is a loner, creates art, works hard and doesn't ask for much. I loved how they become friends and how that friendship builds from there. Some parts feel a bit stiff, I'd have enjoyed more of a flow in the writing but the story was there and I could connect with the characters.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 1, 2022
The local recluse and blacksmith, Daughtry, thought he was living the life he wanted-away from others. Leave it to one man who manages to find his way into his heart.
Poor Campbell. I think he could trip over air if given half the chance. If "accident prone" were a middle name, he'd have it. He ends up succumbing to a virtual world, where he could be himself without outside judgement.
Campbell answered an ad that could put his technology skills to work. Meeting Daughtry was more than he bargained for.
Lots of sweetness, patience and will have you smiling throughout this surprise, opposites attract romance
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Poor Campbell. I think he could trip over air if given half the chance. If "accident prone" were a middle name, he'd have it. He ends up succumbing to a virtual world, where he could be himself without outside judgement.
Campbell answered an ad that could put his technology skills to work. Meeting Daughtry was more than he bargained for.
Lots of sweetness, patience and will have you smiling throughout this surprise, opposites attract romance
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
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June 6, 20224,5
This book is part of a multi author seriess which follows the letters of the alphabet.
I enjoyed this small town romance which takes a bit to heat up. I found Campbell such a strong character, persevering in a town which people ridicule him nor befriended him throughout his live. Now he wants to leave because a person can only take so much. Que Daugherty who needs help with a website for his blacksmith business. They start of on the wrong foot, but realign. This was a cute gay awakening for Daugherty. These guys work together as characters and pull eachother to a higher level in their life. Just cute and endearing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is part of a multi author seriess which follows the letters of the alphabet.
I enjoyed this small town romance which takes a bit to heat up. I found Campbell such a strong character, persevering in a town which people ridicule him nor befriended him throughout his live. Now he wants to leave because a person can only take so much. Que Daugherty who needs help with a website for his blacksmith business. They start of on the wrong foot, but realign. This was a cute gay awakening for Daugherty. These guys work together as characters and pull eachother to a higher level in their life. Just cute and endearing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2022
❤ A perfect couple for this story 🔥
A great start as Campbell breaks another thing not meaning too.
Being accident prone at 23 years and looking for a job didn't help.
Daughtery 29 yrs was a steel worker who didn't have a website. Daughtery didn't gave a clue how talented he was making his sculptures thinking they where just trinkets.
A great first meeting which they don't get a long well but the second one goes a little better.
These guys are too adorable together for different reasons but make a perfect match together.
A total virgin for one of them when he finds himself thinking about his business partner.
Told with both pov's for a gorgeous story.
A great start as Campbell breaks another thing not meaning too.
Being accident prone at 23 years and looking for a job didn't help.
Daughtery 29 yrs was a steel worker who didn't have a website. Daughtery didn't gave a clue how talented he was making his sculptures thinking they where just trinkets.
A great first meeting which they don't get a long well but the second one goes a little better.
These guys are too adorable together for different reasons but make a perfect match together.
A total virgin for one of them when he finds himself thinking about his business partner.
Told with both pov's for a gorgeous story.
May 24, 2022
Such a great book. A pleasure to read. Sweet and funny. Entertaining and steamy. Small town cuteness. Daughtry is a blacksmith who has amassed a ton of iron work but with no way to sell it. He needs a website and a way to promote his work. He puts out an ad for a "computer guru". Clumsy, accident waiting to happen Campbell answers the ad. Campbell and awkwardness should come with a warning label. His awkwardness has cost him many a job. One thing he can do is create websites and Daughtry hires him. Turns out Campbell just be the one to help the business grow. They get to know each better and soon become friends. Can this friendship lead to more? I highly recommend.
May 27, 2022
I LOVED IT!!!!
I just absolutely LOVED this Book!!! ABCs Of Love is a multi Author ingenious idea to bring AMAZING Books together. TL TRAVIS is an Author I admire. HEAT is her contribution and I fell in love with these characters. Very small town life can be stifling. Being gay there can be terrifying. Campbell is known as the town clutz. Daughtry is the town blacksmith. Being a few years apart in age they had never met. When they do it's kind of iffy. The build up to their relationship was wonderful. They made me smile and laugh. This to me is a INCREDIBLE Book. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS AMAZING ABCs OF LOVE SERIES!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just absolutely LOVED this Book!!! ABCs Of Love is a multi Author ingenious idea to bring AMAZING Books together. TL TRAVIS is an Author I admire. HEAT is her contribution and I fell in love with these characters. Very small town life can be stifling. Being gay there can be terrifying. Campbell is known as the town clutz. Daughtry is the town blacksmith. Being a few years apart in age they had never met. When they do it's kind of iffy. The build up to their relationship was wonderful. They made me smile and laugh. This to me is a INCREDIBLE Book. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS AMAZING ABCs OF LOVE SERIES!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 6, 2022
Two Quirky MCs find Love
I felt that there was a lot of telling rather than showing, at the beginning of the book, which made it drag a little. However, once the two MCs met, and then started to work together, things begin to look up. Daugherty and Campbell are two quirky and interesting characters who were meant for each other. It took them a while to realise this, but I really enjoyed the build up to their realisation. I also liked how the author developed Daugherty's character, and built up his self belief. Together you got the impression that they could plan a takeover of the world. The ending was spectacularly cute, and certainly made me smile.
I felt that there was a lot of telling rather than showing, at the beginning of the book, which made it drag a little. However, once the two MCs met, and then started to work together, things begin to look up. Daugherty and Campbell are two quirky and interesting characters who were meant for each other. It took them a while to realise this, but I really enjoyed the build up to their realisation. I also liked how the author developed Daugherty's character, and built up his self belief. Together you got the impression that they could plan a takeover of the world. The ending was spectacularly cute, and certainly made me smile.
July 9, 2022
Don’t judge by appearances
This was a good story with a bit of a slow burn going on. Daughtry is sick of the locals trying to get him married off to local ladies. Campbell is tired of being mocked as the town clutz. Together however, they make a really good team as Campbell helps the blacksmith set up his online business. Despite the title of the book, the only real heat is from Daughtry’s forge but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. All books don’t have to be as sexy as others. But it is a good book with a nice little HEA. The ending kinda got me a little as it seemed a bit forced but overall, it is worth a read. (Not the MCs, but what happened at the very end.)
This was a good story with a bit of a slow burn going on. Daughtry is sick of the locals trying to get him married off to local ladies. Campbell is tired of being mocked as the town clutz. Together however, they make a really good team as Campbell helps the blacksmith set up his online business. Despite the title of the book, the only real heat is from Daughtry’s forge but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. All books don’t have to be as sexy as others. But it is a good book with a nice little HEA. The ending kinda got me a little as it seemed a bit forced but overall, it is worth a read. (Not the MCs, but what happened at the very end.)
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