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Spirit of Hops #1
Not So Straight Up
Welcome to Rapids Bay Minnesota, where the Viking blood runs strong, secrets don’t last long, and the best place to kick back is The Spirit of Hops Brewstillery. Half brewery, half distillery, all hometown watering hole goodness fit for the Gods.
Charlie
Life’s too short. Cliché? Yes, but some things are universal truths regardless of how many pumpkin spice-toting basic white girls paint said truths on barn wood and hang them in their kitchens. That basic truth has been my motto for most of my life and has rarely steered me wrong. It may have also steered me into some interesting shenanigans and awkward situations, but those just make for the best stories. As the bar manager for Spirit of Hops Brewstillery in my hometown, those stories have always given me something to chat about with customers. But when the new brewer and his little girl show up, those stories seem just a prologue to the newest adventure I hear calling my name. Life’s too short, why not seize the day and see what comes, right?
Callum
If there is one thing I have learned in these last six years watching my little girl grow up, it’s that a year is both somehow forever and gone in an instant. Life is too short, and that’s not something to be taken lightly. Moving to Rapids Bay, MN to take over as a brewer for Spirit of Hops was the right move for us. I needed a fresh start, my daughter needed a chance to grow up without ghosts of the past, and we both needed a change in scenery. Georgie and Work, that’s my world and in that order. But life doesn’t like the best-laid plans and when opportunity literally comes crashing into you, you have to take a chance, right?
Not So Straight Up is a full-length MM workplace, single dad, bi-awakening romance. It is book 2 in the Spirit of Hops Brewstillery series but can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Charlie
Life’s too short. Cliché? Yes, but some things are universal truths regardless of how many pumpkin spice-toting basic white girls paint said truths on barn wood and hang them in their kitchens. That basic truth has been my motto for most of my life and has rarely steered me wrong. It may have also steered me into some interesting shenanigans and awkward situations, but those just make for the best stories. As the bar manager for Spirit of Hops Brewstillery in my hometown, those stories have always given me something to chat about with customers. But when the new brewer and his little girl show up, those stories seem just a prologue to the newest adventure I hear calling my name. Life’s too short, why not seize the day and see what comes, right?
Callum
If there is one thing I have learned in these last six years watching my little girl grow up, it’s that a year is both somehow forever and gone in an instant. Life is too short, and that’s not something to be taken lightly. Moving to Rapids Bay, MN to take over as a brewer for Spirit of Hops was the right move for us. I needed a fresh start, my daughter needed a chance to grow up without ghosts of the past, and we both needed a change in scenery. Georgie and Work, that’s my world and in that order. But life doesn’t like the best-laid plans and when opportunity literally comes crashing into you, you have to take a chance, right?
Not So Straight Up is a full-length MM workplace, single dad, bi-awakening romance. It is book 2 in the Spirit of Hops Brewstillery series but can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
- GenresM M RomanceRomance
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 24, 2023
10 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 17, 2024
The best thing about this book?
That cover!!! 🥵🔥
However, the story goes as follows:
Callum and his daughter move to a small town where the is about to work as a brewer. He meets Charlie who manages the brewery when Charlie crashes into him as he hits town. Literally. After a slightly rocky start, the two become friends and Callum is attracted to Charlie but parks that attraction because. Co-workers. And he has a small child to care for. Eventually the two become friends that then becomes more.
Overall this was a fairly low angst story but I ended up skimming a bit because there were a few issues with it:
- inconsistent characterisation with the MMCs (e.g. is Callum grumpy or not. His moods were all over the place; Is Charlie flighty or not? Again, this was a bit all over the place)
- Callum's 6 year old got the bus on her first day of school and when she got off the bus, just went home with a strange lady to be babysat. Then she becomes a permanent babysitter? None of the care arrangements for this child held true and as someone with a child, I found this really detracted from the story.
- the steam was a little bit like you could swap a woman into the picture and not notice the difference so I didn't love those bits (also a pet peeve with MM books and I know it is for others too)
- I just got bored with it because it was a bit long for what it was
This was just an OK read for me but had a lot of potential
ARC received for my honest review
That cover!!! 🥵🔥
However, the story goes as follows:
Callum and his daughter move to a small town where the is about to work as a brewer. He meets Charlie who manages the brewery when Charlie crashes into him as he hits town. Literally. After a slightly rocky start, the two become friends and Callum is attracted to Charlie but parks that attraction because. Co-workers. And he has a small child to care for. Eventually the two become friends that then becomes more.
Overall this was a fairly low angst story but I ended up skimming a bit because there were a few issues with it:
- inconsistent characterisation with the MMCs (e.g. is Callum grumpy or not. His moods were all over the place; Is Charlie flighty or not? Again, this was a bit all over the place)
- Callum's 6 year old got the bus on her first day of school and when she got off the bus, just went home with a strange lady to be babysat. Then she becomes a permanent babysitter? None of the care arrangements for this child held true and as someone with a child, I found this really detracted from the story.
- the steam was a little bit like you could swap a woman into the picture and not notice the difference so I didn't love those bits (also a pet peeve with MM books and I know it is for others too)
- I just got bored with it because it was a bit long for what it was
This was just an OK read for me but had a lot of potential
ARC received for my honest review
June 24, 2024
⭐3.5
Okay, this was a good one to pass the time, drama free with some lovely characters.
Callum and Charlie met in a somewhat chaotic way but became friends after they found out they were going to be working together, Callum has a little daughter (which I think is the main character of the whole book because I loved her) and I liked the relationship of Charlie's whole family with her and with Callum himself. The relationship, believe it or not, took me by surprise because of how fast it is but at the same time I liked that Charlie didn't worry so much about liking a man, if he had his doubts, but he asked for advice and took it and that I think is the important part of the book.
A story that reads fast, fun and leaves you more than satisfied with the love story.
📌 I received an e-copy, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
---
Okey, este fue uno bueno para pasar el rato, libre de drama con unos personajes encantadores.
Callum y Charlie se conocieron de una manera un tanto caótica pero se hicieron amigos luego de que se enteraran de que iban a trabajar juntos, Callum tiene una pequeña hija (la cual creo que es la protagonista de todo el libro porque la ame) y me gusto la relación de toda la familia de Charlie con ella y con el mismo Callum. La relación aunque no lo crean me tomó por sorpresa por lo rápida que es pero al mismo tiempo me gusto que Charlie no se preocupara tanto de que le gustara un hombre, si tenía sus dudas, pidió un consejo y lo acepto y eso creo que es la parte importante del libro.
Una historia que se lee rápido, divertida y que te deja más que satisfecha con la historia de amor.
Okay, this was a good one to pass the time, drama free with some lovely characters.
Callum and Charlie met in a somewhat chaotic way but became friends after they found out they were going to be working together, Callum has a little daughter (which I think is the main character of the whole book because I loved her) and I liked the relationship of Charlie's whole family with her and with Callum himself. The relationship, believe it or not, took me by surprise because of how fast it is but at the same time I liked that Charlie didn't worry so much about liking a man, if he had his doubts, but he asked for advice and took it and that I think is the important part of the book.
A story that reads fast, fun and leaves you more than satisfied with the love story.
📌 I received an e-copy, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
---
Okey, este fue uno bueno para pasar el rato, libre de drama con unos personajes encantadores.
Callum y Charlie se conocieron de una manera un tanto caótica pero se hicieron amigos luego de que se enteraran de que iban a trabajar juntos, Callum tiene una pequeña hija (la cual creo que es la protagonista de todo el libro porque la ame) y me gusto la relación de toda la familia de Charlie con ella y con el mismo Callum. La relación aunque no lo crean me tomó por sorpresa por lo rápida que es pero al mismo tiempo me gusto que Charlie no se preocupara tanto de que le gustara un hombre, si tenía sus dudas, pidió un consejo y lo acepto y eso creo que es la parte importante del libro.
Una historia que se lee rápido, divertida y que te deja más que satisfecha con la historia de amor.
June 8, 2024
Arc review.
Callum and his six year old daughter are starting over in a new town. On their way into town to find their new apartment, they get hit in the car by Charlie the bar manager at the local bar.
Charlie explains he is sorry and if they are willing to let his brother fix the car at his expense. They follow him to the bar where he offers to pay for food and drinks as way of an apology. He discovers that Callum will be working in the bar as the new brewer creating drinks for the bar.
The two form a bond and become fast friends. Charlie classes himself as ‘straight’, so why does he feel a connection and pull towards Callum? Could Charlie be willing to try something new with Callum?
This is the first book i have read by J. E. Joyce and i have loved the journey. My only bugbear was i would have liked more from these two characters. The writing flows easily, along with the story. Georgie steals the show with her one liners and cuteness overload. For a six year old she manages to wrap all the older people around her little finger.
“Life is full of uncertainties, but sometimes all you need is a little courage and a whole lot of heart to navigate those unknowns and come out the other side with everything you never knew you wanted”.
Callum and his six year old daughter are starting over in a new town. On their way into town to find their new apartment, they get hit in the car by Charlie the bar manager at the local bar.
Charlie explains he is sorry and if they are willing to let his brother fix the car at his expense. They follow him to the bar where he offers to pay for food and drinks as way of an apology. He discovers that Callum will be working in the bar as the new brewer creating drinks for the bar.
The two form a bond and become fast friends. Charlie classes himself as ‘straight’, so why does he feel a connection and pull towards Callum? Could Charlie be willing to try something new with Callum?
This is the first book i have read by J. E. Joyce and i have loved the journey. My only bugbear was i would have liked more from these two characters. The writing flows easily, along with the story. Georgie steals the show with her one liners and cuteness overload. For a six year old she manages to wrap all the older people around her little finger.
“Life is full of uncertainties, but sometimes all you need is a little courage and a whole lot of heart to navigate those unknowns and come out the other side with everything you never knew you wanted”.
June 17, 2024
4.5 stars - 😍 Charlie and Callum
#MiddleLifeRomance
Single dad
Bi awakening
Work friends - lovers
Segguality is a spectrum
This book was so good. Callum and Charlie were so cute. This was the first book that was in the 150-250 page rage I’ve read in ages and it was so nice. It was a great length to tell the boys story without rushing or feeling the story drag.
The WHOLE truth or dare scene 😍, my feet were kicking and I had a face cracking grin plastered on my mug.
This was perfectly standalone, I didn’t even wonder about book one. To be perfectly honest I’m not sure I would go back and read book 1 but I would 100% consider future books in this series and by this author.
Georgie is the star of the show.
#MiddleLifeRomance
Single dad
Bi awakening
Work friends - lovers
Segguality is a spectrum
This book was so good. Callum and Charlie were so cute. This was the first book that was in the 150-250 page rage I’ve read in ages and it was so nice. It was a great length to tell the boys story without rushing or feeling the story drag.
The WHOLE truth or dare scene 😍, my feet were kicking and I had a face cracking grin plastered on my mug.
This was perfectly standalone, I didn’t even wonder about book one. To be perfectly honest I’m not sure I would go back and read book 1 but I would 100% consider future books in this series and by this author.
Georgie is the star of the show.
June 3, 2024
3.5 stars
This was a cute low-angst story about Charlie and Callum. Callum is a single dad who moved to the small town to work in the brewery. I wish we’d gotten a little more insight into his relationship with Georgie’s mom. It was mentioned in passing briefly. Charlie has only ever been with women so his attraction to Callum is surprising.
Honestly, I thought Charlie seemed a little immature and his brothers even more so. This was a quick read, but I’m not sure I’ll continue on in the series.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
This was a cute low-angst story about Charlie and Callum. Callum is a single dad who moved to the small town to work in the brewery. I wish we’d gotten a little more insight into his relationship with Georgie’s mom. It was mentioned in passing briefly. Charlie has only ever been with women so his attraction to Callum is surprising.
Honestly, I thought Charlie seemed a little immature and his brothers even more so. This was a quick read, but I’m not sure I’ll continue on in the series.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
June 18, 2024
Giving this book a solid four. I enjoyed the chemistry between characters, and I especially loved the little girl in the story. I'm a sucker for the single dad reads. There is just something about it. This story gave us a decent look into the single parent trope. I do wish the author put more story into the story by giving the reader a deeper look into the couple. But truly that's what made this a good short read. I think you will enjoy this book
June 14, 2024
This is the second book in the series which I read as a standalone.
Callum, 34 years, was new to the Bay as he and his 6 yrs daughter settled in but their car breaks down.
Charlie was the manager of the distillery and late for his shift.
An accidental car crash meeting and both characters meet.
Charlie didn't know Callum would be his new work colleague but also his boss.
This was a nice smooth romance for them both as they got to know each other. At the start there's a bit of narrative telling which I would have loved the characters dialogue instead to connect with them.
Includes a gay awakening for Charlie as he is experiencing all the feelings for the first time with a man, ie Callum.
A truth or dare game and romance with some sexy scenes ending into a HEA finish. Both povs included for the novel.
I received this GRR advance reader copy and this is my honest thoughts of the book.
Callum, 34 years, was new to the Bay as he and his 6 yrs daughter settled in but their car breaks down.
Charlie was the manager of the distillery and late for his shift.
An accidental car crash meeting and both characters meet.
Charlie didn't know Callum would be his new work colleague but also his boss.
This was a nice smooth romance for them both as they got to know each other. At the start there's a bit of narrative telling which I would have loved the characters dialogue instead to connect with them.
Includes a gay awakening for Charlie as he is experiencing all the feelings for the first time with a man, ie Callum.
A truth or dare game and romance with some sexy scenes ending into a HEA finish. Both povs included for the novel.
I received this GRR advance reader copy and this is my honest thoughts of the book.
June 17, 2024
This is the second book in this series and this is Charlie and Callum's story! I really did enjoy this story! Wonderful writing, great story, engaging, romantic, steamy, a little angst and great characters! I just loved Callum's daughter- Georgie (George) she's so sassy! I read an advanced copy of this story and this is my unbiased review! It's so good, you will not be disappointed!
June 5, 2024
Charlie is literally the first person Callum meets when he arrives in Rapids Bay, MN. Charlie manages to rearend him at a stop sign. Charlie offers to treat him to dinner while he tries to get his mechanic brother Donnie to stop by with his tow truck. Charlie is the bar manager at the brewery where Callum is the new brewer. Charlie is charmed by Callum's six-year-old daughter. They quickly become friends and soon Charlie's admiration of Callum becomes something more. Overall, the Larson family is a little pushy, and the brothers tend to act like middle teens except Ollie who's the youngest. Georgie is a little brat too. First book I've read by J E Joyce but will look for more.
June 18, 2024
I liked the concept, a single father moving to a town un Minnesota, new slate. The bar manager crashing the new guys car and becoming friends. A little girl with spark and charisma. It was fun to read about Charlie and Callum falling for each other, while leaving the straightness out of the equation. It was a good read.
June 25, 2024
This book was such a great read. I love the chemistry between the main characters.
January 2, 2024
I’ve been a fan of J.E. Joyce’s for a while now. In any iteration, I know her books come with humor, heart, and a fantastic romance. I truly believe that Not So Straight Up is easily her best work yet.
The love of these characters is so apparent. Reading this book felt like getting know friends. Charlie and Callum (and Georgie too) stole my heart.
This M/M romance is set in a small town and doesn’t skimp on the heat. I love the bisexual rep and the abundance of horny vibes. The acceptance and love of everyone surrounding the main characters is an ode to “love is love.”
If you love M/M romance then you need to read Not So Straight Up!!
Many, many, many thanks to the author for this copy. All thoughts are my own.
The love of these characters is so apparent. Reading this book felt like getting know friends. Charlie and Callum (and Georgie too) stole my heart.
This M/M romance is set in a small town and doesn’t skimp on the heat. I love the bisexual rep and the abundance of horny vibes. The acceptance and love of everyone surrounding the main characters is an ode to “love is love.”
If you love M/M romance then you need to read Not So Straight Up!!
Many, many, many thanks to the author for this copy. All thoughts are my own.
January 4, 2024
Wow just wow this book hits it out of the park. I absolutely love the book that J.E. Joyce has brought to us. I was hooked from the beginning when Charlie literally runs into Callum you just have to go a long for the ride. I was transported to Minnesota (and I know. Nothing about Minnesota) and entered the world of Charlie and Callum. I absolutely adore Georgie. I loved all the side characters and checking in with everyone. This book allowed me to fall in love with this couple. I love Charlie and Callum together. Well done J.E. Joyce well done. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book.
February 19, 2024
I thought this book was super cute. I want to read others in the series. It’s formulaic but it’s a formula that works. I’m always gonna be a sucker for blended family and friends to lovers. The sec scenes were a little clumsy and quick but still sweet. Also as someone who tried to run away from her now husband I understand panicking when things are going too well too fast. Definitely recommending to my friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2024
3.75 stars! tl;dr cute romance
Callum is making big changes in his life: moving to a new (small) town to be a brewer at a brewery, uprooting he and his daughter Georgie's life. Charlie, the bar manager at said brewery, literally runs into him on his way (late) to his shift, which starts them off on an interesting foot.
One of the things I liked about this book was the development of feelings with Charlie and Callum. Charlie has identified as straight all his life, while Callum considers himself mostly gay, with a few adventures with women (see: having a daughter). However, when Charlie realizes he's feeling more than friendly towards his coworker, he goes all in, after a great game of Truth or Dare. The sexual tension leading up to their first kiss was amazingly done.
The main thing that bothered me about this book could be due to my not reading the first book in the series before picking up this one, but I was very confused about the whole deal with Charlie's brothers and the hazing thing with Callum. The whole scene was very awkward and not really resolved at all in regards to Callum and Charlie's brothers, and I was very confused. The scene in general felt kind of abrupt, like it was thrown in to create a little tension, and I don't know if I was missing context from the first book or if it was just that abrupt but it felt weird.
There were a few minor issues at the beginning of the book with more telling than showing, but overall this was a cute book!
Callum is making big changes in his life: moving to a new (small) town to be a brewer at a brewery, uprooting he and his daughter Georgie's life. Charlie, the bar manager at said brewery, literally runs into him on his way (late) to his shift, which starts them off on an interesting foot.
One of the things I liked about this book was the development of feelings with Charlie and Callum. Charlie has identified as straight all his life, while Callum considers himself mostly gay, with a few adventures with women (see: having a daughter). However, when Charlie realizes he's feeling more than friendly towards his coworker, he goes all in, after a great game of Truth or Dare. The sexual tension leading up to their first kiss was amazingly done.
The main thing that bothered me about this book could be due to my not reading the first book in the series before picking up this one, but I was very confused about the whole deal with Charlie's brothers and the hazing thing with Callum. The whole scene was very awkward and not really resolved at all in regards to Callum and Charlie's brothers, and I was very confused. The scene in general felt kind of abrupt, like it was thrown in to create a little tension, and I don't know if I was missing context from the first book or if it was just that abrupt but it felt weird.
There were a few minor issues at the beginning of the book with more telling than showing, but overall this was a cute book!
June 18, 2024
This is the second book in the series which I read it as a standalone and my first from J.E. Joyce. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Callum, a 34-year-old single dad, is new to the Bay, having recently settled there with his 6-year-old daughter. However, their arrival is marred by car trouble. Meanwhile, Charlie, the manager of a local distillery, is running late for his shift. An accidental car crash brings them together in an unexpected way.
Charlie is surprised to learn that not only is Callum his new work colleague, but he’s also his boss. This sets the stage for a smooth and engaging romance as they get to know each other.
While the beginning of the book relies more on narrative exposition, I would have preferred more character dialogue to create a stronger connection. Nevertheless, the story includes a compelling gay awakening for Charlie, who experiences romantic feelings for a man—Callum—for the first time.
Their relationship develops through a playful truth or dare game, leading to a romance filled with sexy scenes and ultimately concluding with a heartwarming HEA. The novel includes both Callum and Charlie's perspectives, enriching the narrative with their individual viewpoints.
Overall, this was a delightful read, blending romance and personal discovery in a satisfying way. If you enjoy heartfelt romances with well-developed characters and a touch of spice, this book is for you.
Callum, a 34-year-old single dad, is new to the Bay, having recently settled there with his 6-year-old daughter. However, their arrival is marred by car trouble. Meanwhile, Charlie, the manager of a local distillery, is running late for his shift. An accidental car crash brings them together in an unexpected way.
Charlie is surprised to learn that not only is Callum his new work colleague, but he’s also his boss. This sets the stage for a smooth and engaging romance as they get to know each other.
While the beginning of the book relies more on narrative exposition, I would have preferred more character dialogue to create a stronger connection. Nevertheless, the story includes a compelling gay awakening for Charlie, who experiences romantic feelings for a man—Callum—for the first time.
Their relationship develops through a playful truth or dare game, leading to a romance filled with sexy scenes and ultimately concluding with a heartwarming HEA. The novel includes both Callum and Charlie's perspectives, enriching the narrative with their individual viewpoints.
Overall, this was a delightful read, blending romance and personal discovery in a satisfying way. If you enjoy heartfelt romances with well-developed characters and a touch of spice, this book is for you.
June 17, 2024
Title: Not So Straight Up
Author: J.E. Joyce
Series: Spirit of Hops, Book 2
Rating: 3.5 Stars
I was really hoping to like this book more than I did, especially since it involved one of my absolute favorite tropes: bi-awakening. Unfortunately, I just could not connect with the characters and kept finding myself doing other things when I’d been planning to read. I did eventually finish it, but it wasn’t at any point a race to the end.
The Good: The book is definitely funny (or pun-ny, thanks, Charlie) and when I was reading, it did make me laugh a lot. I also enjoyed the steamy scenes. They were 🔥🔥🔥.
The Less Good: The Five Year Old Deus ex Machina, aka the plot moppet aka Georgie, Callum’s little girl. She was meant to be cute and provide comic relief (which she does every so often), but she was also obviously meant to move the relationship between Charlie and Callum along. It got annoying real fast.
Song Pairing: Into the Unknown by Panic at the Disco. Both Charlie and Callum end up pushing each other’s boundaries and forcing themselves out of their comfort zones, which is of course what Into the Unknown is all about. Unfortunately, the length of this book did not lend itself well to dealing with this in an organic manner (hence, the existence of plot moppet Georgie)
Author: J.E. Joyce
Series: Spirit of Hops, Book 2
Rating: 3.5 Stars
I was really hoping to like this book more than I did, especially since it involved one of my absolute favorite tropes: bi-awakening. Unfortunately, I just could not connect with the characters and kept finding myself doing other things when I’d been planning to read. I did eventually finish it, but it wasn’t at any point a race to the end.
The Good: The book is definitely funny (or pun-ny, thanks, Charlie) and when I was reading, it did make me laugh a lot. I also enjoyed the steamy scenes. They were 🔥🔥🔥.
The Less Good: The Five Year Old Deus ex Machina, aka the plot moppet aka Georgie, Callum’s little girl. She was meant to be cute and provide comic relief (which she does every so often), but she was also obviously meant to move the relationship between Charlie and Callum along. It got annoying real fast.
Song Pairing: Into the Unknown by Panic at the Disco. Both Charlie and Callum end up pushing each other’s boundaries and forcing themselves out of their comfort zones, which is of course what Into the Unknown is all about. Unfortunately, the length of this book did not lend itself well to dealing with this in an organic manner (hence, the existence of plot moppet Georgie)
June 10, 2024
Callum and his young daughter Georgie are newly arrived in Rapids Bay, Wisconsin and ready for a new start. Charlie is the bar manager at The Spirit of Hops Brewstillery and gives the new brewer Callum a rather unfortunate welcome to town. Callum has always known he was into guys and can’t help but be attracted to straight guy Charlie. Charlie has always been straight but can’t help but notice that Callum is not only a great father but hot as hell. As their feelings grow, Charlie has to decide if he’s ready to give up his carefree life and Callum has to decide if he can trust his heart and his daughter to someone else.
Not So Straight Up is a cute low-angst romance with a bit of spice and great characters. I love blended families and single dads so this book was right up my alley. Both Callum and Charlie were so sweet and little Georgie was a cutie pie. The plot was a little formulaic but I didn’t care in the least. I knew what I was getting into from the first chapter and this book did not disappoint. A few things were a bit unbelievable like Callum’s willingness to trust his new neighbor to babysit Georgie within minutes of meeting her or Charlie’s complete lack of a freak out when he was attracted to a man for the first time in his life. Callum’s trust issues also seemed to come out of nowhere but everything was resolved as quickly as it became an issue so I guess they weren’t as big of an issue as I thought they would be.
Not So Straight Up is a cute low-angst romance with a bit of spice and great characters. I love blended families and single dads so this book was right up my alley. Both Callum and Charlie were so sweet and little Georgie was a cutie pie. The plot was a little formulaic but I didn’t care in the least. I knew what I was getting into from the first chapter and this book did not disappoint. A few things were a bit unbelievable like Callum’s willingness to trust his new neighbor to babysit Georgie within minutes of meeting her or Charlie’s complete lack of a freak out when he was attracted to a man for the first time in his life. Callum’s trust issues also seemed to come out of nowhere but everything was resolved as quickly as it became an issue so I guess they weren’t as big of an issue as I thought they would be.
June 17, 2024
4 1/4 Stars
Not So Straight Up is the first I’ve read by this author.
I enjoyed meeting all of these characters. They are personable and form an interesting and supportive cast of characters for the town. There aren’t any superfluous interactions, and my focus stayed on learning the main characters and how they fit in with everyone around them. It was nice to watch.
First, I adore Georgie. She is sweet and precocious without being a caricature of a child (as I’ve seen in other books). Her personality fit the feel of the book, and I enjoyed seeing what she would say next.
Charlie is more mature and less spontaneous than I thought he would be based on the blurb. While I would have enjoyed seeing him “grow up” as I had expected, I like this version of him and how he approached getting closer to Callum and Georgie. He stole my heart with his spirit and sense of humor, which kept me engaged with him throughout the book.
Callum didn’t steal my heart. He kinda eased into it and surprised me with the warm feelings I had for him. His is a steady, responsible type of personality that I can relate to.
Watching Charlie and Callum come together was as sweet as it was beautiful and sexy.
I look forward to more from this author.
Not So Straight Up is the first I’ve read by this author.
I enjoyed meeting all of these characters. They are personable and form an interesting and supportive cast of characters for the town. There aren’t any superfluous interactions, and my focus stayed on learning the main characters and how they fit in with everyone around them. It was nice to watch.
First, I adore Georgie. She is sweet and precocious without being a caricature of a child (as I’ve seen in other books). Her personality fit the feel of the book, and I enjoyed seeing what she would say next.
Charlie is more mature and less spontaneous than I thought he would be based on the blurb. While I would have enjoyed seeing him “grow up” as I had expected, I like this version of him and how he approached getting closer to Callum and Georgie. He stole my heart with his spirit and sense of humor, which kept me engaged with him throughout the book.
Callum didn’t steal my heart. He kinda eased into it and surprised me with the warm feelings I had for him. His is a steady, responsible type of personality that I can relate to.
Watching Charlie and Callum come together was as sweet as it was beautiful and sexy.
I look forward to more from this author.
June 8, 2024
Absolutely amazing!
This book is phenomenal and I loved it! The story of Charlie and Callum begin with a bang, literally, when Charlie runs into the back of Callum’s car at a stop sign on Callum’s first day in town. He and his 6 year old daughter, Georgie, have moved from Denver to get a fresh start. I love the chemistry between Charlie and Callum and the way their relationship develops as the story unfolds. There are plenty of good friends and crazy family in town to stand by them as they navigate their relationship. There will be a few bumps along the way but in the end, a grand gesture from Charlie will make Callum see that he’s all in and in for the long haul and it leads them to their happily ever after. Georgie is absolutely adorable and one of my favorite parts of the story, that girl is an absolute hoot!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This book is phenomenal and I loved it! The story of Charlie and Callum begin with a bang, literally, when Charlie runs into the back of Callum’s car at a stop sign on Callum’s first day in town. He and his 6 year old daughter, Georgie, have moved from Denver to get a fresh start. I love the chemistry between Charlie and Callum and the way their relationship develops as the story unfolds. There are plenty of good friends and crazy family in town to stand by them as they navigate their relationship. There will be a few bumps along the way but in the end, a grand gesture from Charlie will make Callum see that he’s all in and in for the long haul and it leads them to their happily ever after. Georgie is absolutely adorable and one of my favorite parts of the story, that girl is an absolute hoot!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
June 16, 2024
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This is a happy sweet romance with two nice guys who can’t help but fall in love whether they are looking for it or not.
They have a playful and nurturing friendship and relationship, a cute little girl who is eager to ‘ship them makes the transition all the easier. I enjoy the world that’s been created, and the friends and colleagues surrounding them.
I had a few niggles some which required a suspension of disbelief, and other things like Charlie’s parents getting Callum’s daughter to call them by grandparent titles without asking or them barely dating really bothered me. But overall a nice read.
This is a happy sweet romance with two nice guys who can’t help but fall in love whether they are looking for it or not.
They have a playful and nurturing friendship and relationship, a cute little girl who is eager to ‘ship them makes the transition all the easier. I enjoy the world that’s been created, and the friends and colleagues surrounding them.
I had a few niggles some which required a suspension of disbelief, and other things like Charlie’s parents getting Callum’s daughter to call them by grandparent titles without asking or them barely dating really bothered me. But overall a nice read.
June 18, 2024
A quick read but still a nice, sweet, low-angst storyline Callum and Charlie. Callum who is a single dad moves to town with his daughter to work and meets Charlie when they have an accident as he drives into town! To make up for it Charlie takes them both to the bar he works at for food and they realise they will soon be working together! They soon form a bond and become fast friends. Charlie thinking he is ‘straight’ wonders about the connection and pull he feels towards Callum. A lovely friends to lovers, bi awakening storyline follows as they soon take a chance and embark on a relationship which culminates in their hea.
I received a free arc copy from GRR and this is my honest review.
I received a free ARC copy from GRR and this is my honest review
I received a free arc copy from GRR and this is my honest review.
I received a free ARC copy from GRR and this is my honest review
June 10, 2024
Double Daddy…
Callum moves to a new town looking for a fresh start for him and his daughter Georgie. Also a new job to look forward to. First day he drives in to town and Charlie runs into the back of his car. It was such a meet cute.
Callum and Charlie’s connection was pretty quick. Callum knows Charlie is straight and doesn’t try to expect anything more then friendship. Charlie’s feeling things he’s never felt before but goes for what he wants. They have a little speed bump but they worked it out in the end.
Callum moves to a new town looking for a fresh start for him and his daughter Georgie. Also a new job to look forward to. First day he drives in to town and Charlie runs into the back of his car. It was such a meet cute.
Callum and Charlie’s connection was pretty quick. Callum knows Charlie is straight and doesn’t try to expect anything more then friendship. Charlie’s feeling things he’s never felt before but goes for what he wants. They have a little speed bump but they worked it out in the end.
November 7, 2025
I always enjoy a 'straight to gay' story so I was looking forward to this, and not disappointed at all.
Moving to a new town and new job can be dauting enough, add a 6 year old daughter and that makes it all the more challenging. But the new place is a town of kind, caring people ready to lend a helping hand. This was a wonderful read beautifully written. There is a wee bit of angst thrown in but even that was sweet in its own way. Also, Little Georgina is a sweetheart, in a slightly precocious way. A lovely read.
Moving to a new town and new job can be dauting enough, add a 6 year old daughter and that makes it all the more challenging. But the new place is a town of kind, caring people ready to lend a helping hand. This was a wonderful read beautifully written. There is a wee bit of angst thrown in but even that was sweet in its own way. Also, Little Georgina is a sweetheart, in a slightly precocious way. A lovely read.
June 10, 2024
I adored this book and reading about Callum and Charlie. Also I just have to say I am obsessed with the single dad storylines and this fit the bill to a tee. Adorable little daughter that says it like it is and helps play matchmaker is just too cute as well. The quirky, fun meddling family that help makes things better and worse at the same time lol. If you’re looking for a fun, cute, no angst (imo) read than this is your book. This was just a refreshing read and I really enjoyed it :)
June 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this, it’s a pretty charming low angst romance. I really loved the setting, the small town vibe is excellent and I loved spending time at the bar. Charlie has a fairly drama free bisexual awakening, and I especially loved how his family is so accepting and supportive. Callum’s daughter Georgie was so hilarious, the three of the are pretty lovely together. Loved it.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 19, 2024
I'm a big fan of stories set in coffee shops, bakeries, diners, etc. so this one set in the world of brewing and distilling was a change of pace right up my alley. It was wonderful to see Callum and his daughter starting over and getting to watch Charlie find out that commitment and stability aren't nearly as confining and boring as he'd always thought. I'm definitely going to check out the first book in this series and other books by this author.
June 12, 2024
What a cute story. Georgie is definitely the star of this book lol in all her 6 year old cuteness. I related to Charlie in the all over the place kind of way he thinks because I think the same way and as a parent I related to Callum a lot. Every life decisions you make when you are a parent feel 1000% strong then if it was just you in the equation. What a cute love story.
June 16, 2024
This was a cute quick read. Callum finds himself in a new town for a fresh start with his daughter. Charlie crashes into his life, like literally crashed into his car on his firat day in town.
Things progress between them pretty quickly. I enjoyed the small town found family that Cal and Georgie found.
It was just ok for me
Things progress between them pretty quickly. I enjoyed the small town found family that Cal and Georgie found.
It was just ok for me
June 17, 2024
Dingbat, Whiskeer, Deadpool unicorn, 'don't be a buzzard killer', Double Daddy, pun-ny jar.
A sweet rom-com with a feisty, little monster named Geogie, that will give you the warm and fuzzies. What little angst there is, is minimal. All of the characters are quirky and likeable and the storyline is simple, but flows well. It isn't a deep book, very enjoyable nonetheless.
A sweet rom-com with a feisty, little monster named Geogie, that will give you the warm and fuzzies. What little angst there is, is minimal. All of the characters are quirky and likeable and the storyline is simple, but flows well. It isn't a deep book, very enjoyable nonetheless.
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