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Foggy Basin #5
Nuts and Bolts
Jack Hulbert has worked at the hardware store Nuts and Bolts since he was sixteen. He had big dreams of leaving town and traveling, but five years later, not much has changed, and he worries he’ll end up living the rest of his life in the small town he was born in.
Hudson Carter has been working in Sacramento for the past ten years, managing a big box store. He left Foggy Basin for college in the city and he never once looked back. His parents have owned the hardware store in town for two generations, and he’d hoped to avoid the same fate, but when his father tells him his plans to either sell the store or close it, he has a change of heart.
Hudson has been single for years, and a few bad breakups have left him jaded about finding the perfect partner. But he’s not prepared for the cute, and much younger man who knows far more than he does about running the hardware store and isn’t afraid to tell him. It’s time for this city boy to embrace his country roots and find out what really matters in his life, and a certain country boy is more than willing to help. #age gap, #city/country, #workplace romance, #small town romance
Hudson Carter has been working in Sacramento for the past ten years, managing a big box store. He left Foggy Basin for college in the city and he never once looked back. His parents have owned the hardware store in town for two generations, and he’d hoped to avoid the same fate, but when his father tells him his plans to either sell the store or close it, he has a change of heart.
Hudson has been single for years, and a few bad breakups have left him jaded about finding the perfect partner. But he’s not prepared for the cute, and much younger man who knows far more than he does about running the hardware store and isn’t afraid to tell him. It’s time for this city boy to embrace his country roots and find out what really matters in his life, and a certain country boy is more than willing to help. #age gap, #city/country, #workplace romance, #small town romance
241 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2024
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Did Not Finish
August 23, 202420% ish into the story and Jack has a detailed sex scene with his best friend/fuck buddy. At this point he thinks Hudson is super hot but doesn’t know he’s gay.
A week ish? Later Jack and Hudson have sex with Jack initiating it. They leave the house and Hudson’s neighbor is very flirty with him and Jack gets jealous but doesn’t tell him that he has a fuck buddy that he’s fucked recently.
They’re continuing to hook up and act all smitten with each other and Jack’s fuck buddy/best friend sees them kiss and looks hurt which is when Jack tells Hudson that he’s his fuck buddy and Hudson tells him to go talk to him because it looks like there might be feelings involved on the friend’s part.
Friend feels hurt he wasn’t told about Hudson but gets over it in 0.5 seconds and talks about needing to find himself a sexy guy so he doesn’t have to leave town to get off. They spend the night hanging out without having sex 🤷🏻♀️
I wasn’t jiving with the writing so I’m not sure why I kept reading. There’s no romance, really. Everything comes off matter of factly and Hudson was pretty bland while Jack came off as unlikeable with being jealous while having a whole ass fuck buddy he didn’t mention. 🙄
I like low angst/ low stakes and small town stuff so I thought I’d give this series a go thinking I’d find some new authors to follow but it turns out I’m just finding new authors to avoid instead.
This wasn’t for me.
A week ish? Later Jack and Hudson have sex with Jack initiating it. They leave the house and Hudson’s neighbor is very flirty with him and Jack gets jealous but doesn’t tell him that he has a fuck buddy that he’s fucked recently.
They’re continuing to hook up and act all smitten with each other and Jack’s fuck buddy/best friend sees them kiss and looks hurt which is when Jack tells Hudson that he’s his fuck buddy and Hudson tells him to go talk to him because it looks like there might be feelings involved on the friend’s part.
Friend feels hurt he wasn’t told about Hudson but gets over it in 0.5 seconds and talks about needing to find himself a sexy guy so he doesn’t have to leave town to get off. They spend the night hanging out without having sex 🤷🏻♀️
I wasn’t jiving with the writing so I’m not sure why I kept reading. There’s no romance, really. Everything comes off matter of factly and Hudson was pretty bland while Jack came off as unlikeable with being jealous while having a whole ass fuck buddy he didn’t mention. 🙄
I like low angst/ low stakes and small town stuff so I thought I’d give this series a go thinking I’d find some new authors to follow but it turns out I’m just finding new authors to avoid instead.
This wasn’t for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2024
The writing needs work. When the son of the small town hardware store owner arrives in town from the big city, he goes into the hardware store where lone employee Jack is working with earbuds in and back turned. He doesn’t hear Hudson talking and when he gets a tap on the shoulder he jumps and says “Who the fuck are you?”
To a possible customer who had apologized for startling him. An hour later Hudson comes back and again, Jack has earbuds in and music cranked and acts pissed at Hudson, author’s words. I like a grouchy MC, but this was rudeness and a total turn off.
I left at 18% when Hudson and Jack are at the diner waiting for Hudson’s parents to come back from an outing as Hudson has texted that he is home earlier than he had told them. He rarely visits the small town that he left behind and it has been more than a year since he was there. His parents come in and there are no greetings and no hugs!! The conversation gets right down to business and Hudson does get a pat on the shoulder from his father and the mother calls him ‘Son’ when they leave the diner. How did no one catch the lack of an affectionate greeting?
I said in my review of the Lisa Henry novella that the next MM I read won’t measure up to her memorable read. This is the next book and it would have sank itself, anyway, under the anemic writing.
To a possible customer who had apologized for startling him. An hour later Hudson comes back and again, Jack has earbuds in and music cranked and acts pissed at Hudson, author’s words. I like a grouchy MC, but this was rudeness and a total turn off.
I left at 18% when Hudson and Jack are at the diner waiting for Hudson’s parents to come back from an outing as Hudson has texted that he is home earlier than he had told them. He rarely visits the small town that he left behind and it has been more than a year since he was there. His parents come in and there are no greetings and no hugs!! The conversation gets right down to business and Hudson does get a pat on the shoulder from his father and the mother calls him ‘Son’ when they leave the diner. How did no one catch the lack of an affectionate greeting?
I said in my review of the Lisa Henry novella that the next MM I read won’t measure up to her memorable read. This is the next book and it would have sank itself, anyway, under the anemic writing.
August 20, 2024
When country boy turned city boy Hudson goes back home to see what's going on with his family hardware shop he never expected to fall for someone but then he meets the person keeping it afloat, Jack.
This is a cute, low-angst love story that really shows that finding what makes you happy in life is worth much more than money or expensive things.
I loved the tender moments between Jack and Hudson and it really pushed home that no matter what age is just a number and the heart knows what it wants.
Another grand slam for Bl Maxwell.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a cute, low-angst love story that really shows that finding what makes you happy in life is worth much more than money or expensive things.
I loved the tender moments between Jack and Hudson and it really pushed home that no matter what age is just a number and the heart knows what it wants.
Another grand slam for Bl Maxwell.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2024
Office romance, coming home, opposites attract, take your pick as they all apply to Nuts and Bolts. Hudson left Foggy Basin for life in the big city and has only gone back for short visits with his parents until now. A call from dad stating that he's considering selling the family store has Hudson racing back because he senses something is wrong. At the store he meets Jack, the slightly cantankerous but very competent employee of the family hardware store. Hudson decides to stay for a month while he decides to either buy or sell the store. As the two men work together they become very, very close. Overall a very romantic story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2024
This is a well written small town/age gap MM romance with strong characters in Hudson and Jack. The author does a great job developing the story and painting her scenes. She takes you into their lives with a sweet and steamy romance and kept me turning the pages with drama and emotions. She moves the story fluidly and delivers a terrific read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
August 25, 2024
This story is very sweet indeed. The love story makes an appearance pretty early on. A small amount of drama but mostly this book offers a romance with a happy ending and a town that is welcoming and makes you want to visit.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2024
This was a sweet book in the multi-author series Foggy Basin. I loved Hudson and Jake together and how well they balanced each other out. I've only read one other book in the series so far, but it was good seeing other couples making cameo appearances.
My only thing with this story, though, was the drama leading to Hudson's father no longer wanting to work in the store anymore. I felt like it was discovered and talen care of way too quick for it to have been an issue. I think it would have been better to either leave it out or expand on it more. Other than that, I thought it was a good book.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
My only thing with this story, though, was the drama leading to Hudson's father no longer wanting to work in the store anymore. I felt like it was discovered and talen care of way too quick for it to have been an issue. I think it would have been better to either leave it out or expand on it more. Other than that, I thought it was a good book.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
August 25, 2024
Great story
I really enjoyed this story. If you like small town stories where everyone knows everything then you should definitely check this series out. Jack and Hudson should have been complete opposites and yet they both ended up wanting the same thing.
I really enjoyed this story. If you like small town stories where everyone knows everything then you should definitely check this series out. Jack and Hudson should have been complete opposites and yet they both ended up wanting the same thing.
November 5, 2024
Reread as audiobook. New to me narrator who sounded really good.
Story - 3.5 stars. Sweet and low angst story set in a lovely small town. The characters were nice, and the part at the end was fulfilling. I wasn't quite convinced by the insta-love in this story though, at the start of the book, there wasn't much they had in common aside from mutual physical attraction. Enjoyable story.
Story - 3.5 stars. Sweet and low angst story set in a lovely small town. The characters were nice, and the part at the end was fulfilling. I wasn't quite convinced by the insta-love in this story though, at the start of the book, there wasn't much they had in common aside from mutual physical attraction. Enjoyable story.
November 10, 2024
I loved Nuts and Bolts and struggled to put it down. The story is amazing and I enjoyed reading Jack Hulbert and Hudson Carter's story.
November 4, 2024
3.5 - This is one of the books in the Foggy Basin series, of which I have read a couple of other books. Overall, this is a sweet, low angst story about Hudson, who has been living/working in a bigger city for well over a decade, but comes home to small-town Foggy Basin to either take over his parents' hardware store or help his parents sell it. There he meets the store's main employee, Jack, who is 21 and has never left Foggy Basin nor worked anywhere else. Although Jack initially comes off as grumpy and rude during their meet-cute, over time Hudson and Jack find that they work together well and that an attraction has developed between them. Jack and Hudson work together to turn the store around, to rid Foggy Basin of a certain villain, and to find their HEA. On the way to this HEA, there are some sweet moments between them and also a bit of heat. The side characters were a nice addition to the mix, including Mr Atkins and his story as well as Jack's best friend Isaac (though I really could have done without the detailed sex scene between them. It would have been enough to just say it happened). This is an age gap romance and while we know that Jack is 21, we never find out Hudson's age, though I would guess he's 32 or so based on the info we were given.
This audiobook was narrated by Guy Veryzer. He did do a number of different voices, but I didn't feel like they were consistently distinct. And while the narration was pleasant and gave off a small town feel, I felt both Jack and Hudson (and Isaac) came off sounding older than they were. Alas, it didn't elevate the story for me, but rather made it feel a bit bland, though it was a pleasant way to spend my afternoon.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for this audiobook ARC - I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This audiobook was narrated by Guy Veryzer. He did do a number of different voices, but I didn't feel like they were consistently distinct. And while the narration was pleasant and gave off a small town feel, I felt both Jack and Hudson (and Isaac) came off sounding older than they were. Alas, it didn't elevate the story for me, but rather made it feel a bit bland, though it was a pleasant way to spend my afternoon.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for this audiobook ARC - I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 20, 2024
Nuts and Bolts is an MM romance by the fabulous BL Maxwell, and is part of the multiauthor series Foggy Basin. After being immersed in BL Maxwell's version of Foggy Basin, I am certainly interested to find out more about the tiny California town that is about to experience an influx of romance.
This story is a small town, age gap (maybe 10ish years, as far as I could figure) romance that is both sweet and full of drama.
Hudson Carter hated living in the tiny town of Foggy Basin. So much so that after college he went to work and live in Sacramento, with only brief visits to his parents during that time. He felt constrained by the small town and the hardware store that had been in his family for generations. But when Hudson's father calls him to inform Hudson that he intends on selling the store so that he could retire, Hudson drops everything to go check on his parents and their family's business.
Jack Hulbert longs to travel and spread his wings, but instead life has meant that Jack had stayed in Foggy Basin after finishing high school. He works at the Carter's hardware store, where he enjoys interacting with the town folk and helping them get what they want. When Jack meets Hudson, there's sparks and confused emotions, but the two have one thing in common, and that is working to save the hardware store.
Working together mean that these two get to know each other. There's is stacks of lust and chemistry, but there is also the developing friendship that promises more for the relationship. I also really enjoyed getting to see Hudson get to know and fall in love with his home town after being away for so long.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is a small town, age gap (maybe 10ish years, as far as I could figure) romance that is both sweet and full of drama.
Hudson Carter hated living in the tiny town of Foggy Basin. So much so that after college he went to work and live in Sacramento, with only brief visits to his parents during that time. He felt constrained by the small town and the hardware store that had been in his family for generations. But when Hudson's father calls him to inform Hudson that he intends on selling the store so that he could retire, Hudson drops everything to go check on his parents and their family's business.
Jack Hulbert longs to travel and spread his wings, but instead life has meant that Jack had stayed in Foggy Basin after finishing high school. He works at the Carter's hardware store, where he enjoys interacting with the town folk and helping them get what they want. When Jack meets Hudson, there's sparks and confused emotions, but the two have one thing in common, and that is working to save the hardware store.
Working together mean that these two get to know each other. There's is stacks of lust and chemistry, but there is also the developing friendship that promises more for the relationship. I also really enjoyed getting to see Hudson get to know and fall in love with his home town after being away for so long.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 29, 2024
This is only the second Foggy Basin book I've read in the 11 book multiauthor series. All the stories can be read as standalones with couples from earlier books popping in. But after Nuts and Bolts, I'm going to go back and start from the beginning.
Holden left Foggy Basin to go to college in Sacramento and only comes home for infrequent visits. When Jonas, his dad, calls to tell him he's selling the hardware store, he has an epiphany. He works twelve hour days at a job he no longer enjoys and it's time for a change. Foggy Basin needs it's hardware store and the company his dad is thinking of selling to has a sleazy history of buying stores, razing them and selling the property.
Jack started working at Nuts and Bolts when he was in high school. It's given him the independence to move out of his family home; he loves his job. Jonas lets him run the store the way he wants and Hudson realizes that Jack is integral to the store's success.
It doesn't take long for the pair to go from suspicion of each other to kissing. Jack is perfect for Hudson despite a large age gap. The pair work as a realistic couple. They both share a vision of a better store.
The worldbuilding is excellent. Mr. Atkins was a delightful surprise. Supportive family and found family. There's a jealous not-ex and a shady realtor.
Nut and Bolts is a keeper. It's a rather sweet, low angst story with a gentle small town vibe. And proves that you can come home again.
A quick, very enjoyable read. This is a town I could come visit again and again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Holden left Foggy Basin to go to college in Sacramento and only comes home for infrequent visits. When Jonas, his dad, calls to tell him he's selling the hardware store, he has an epiphany. He works twelve hour days at a job he no longer enjoys and it's time for a change. Foggy Basin needs it's hardware store and the company his dad is thinking of selling to has a sleazy history of buying stores, razing them and selling the property.
Jack started working at Nuts and Bolts when he was in high school. It's given him the independence to move out of his family home; he loves his job. Jonas lets him run the store the way he wants and Hudson realizes that Jack is integral to the store's success.
It doesn't take long for the pair to go from suspicion of each other to kissing. Jack is perfect for Hudson despite a large age gap. The pair work as a realistic couple. They both share a vision of a better store.
The worldbuilding is excellent. Mr. Atkins was a delightful surprise. Supportive family and found family. There's a jealous not-ex and a shady realtor.
Nut and Bolts is a keeper. It's a rather sweet, low angst story with a gentle small town vibe. And proves that you can come home again.
A quick, very enjoyable read. This is a town I could come visit again and again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2024
Hudson and Jack’s Story . . .
Hudson Carter did not want to work in his father’s hardware store forever. It was not the life he would choose. So he went to Sacramento right after college and has managed a big box store for the past 10 years. But his father Jonas has decided to retire and gives Hudson a decision to make. If Hudson doesn’t want to take over the hardware store, Nuts and Bolts, his father plans to either sell it or close it. Maybe it’s time to come home and run the family business now. He has no ties in Sacramento to keep him there and he is no longer interested in finding someone special after the breakups that soured his attitude.
When Hudson comes home, he meets Jack Hulbert who has been working for his father since he was 16. He knows the business well and has the confidence to speak up to his new boss. Jack had also considered leaving the small town to travel. But maybe with Hudson taking over, he just might decide to stay and help out… and explore possibilities for sharing a future.
For those who prefer the audiobook version, the narrator, Guy Veryzer, will bring the “reading” experience alive for the listener. He does a great job with the voices to personalize the story and make it easy for the listener to get an accurate impression of what each character is like. This helps to set the mood, familiarize the reader with the characters, and offers a pleasant way to “read” and enjoy the book.
Hudson Carter did not want to work in his father’s hardware store forever. It was not the life he would choose. So he went to Sacramento right after college and has managed a big box store for the past 10 years. But his father Jonas has decided to retire and gives Hudson a decision to make. If Hudson doesn’t want to take over the hardware store, Nuts and Bolts, his father plans to either sell it or close it. Maybe it’s time to come home and run the family business now. He has no ties in Sacramento to keep him there and he is no longer interested in finding someone special after the breakups that soured his attitude.
When Hudson comes home, he meets Jack Hulbert who has been working for his father since he was 16. He knows the business well and has the confidence to speak up to his new boss. Jack had also considered leaving the small town to travel. But maybe with Hudson taking over, he just might decide to stay and help out… and explore possibilities for sharing a future.
For those who prefer the audiobook version, the narrator, Guy Veryzer, will bring the “reading” experience alive for the listener. He does a great job with the voices to personalize the story and make it easy for the listener to get an accurate impression of what each character is like. This helps to set the mood, familiarize the reader with the characters, and offers a pleasant way to “read” and enjoy the book.
August 30, 2024
This book is part of the multi-author series Foggy Basin. Each book is a standalone for you to enjoy. This is the story of Hudson Carter and Jack Hulbert. Hudson grew up in Foggy Basin and left as soon as he could for bigger places. When his dad says that he is thinking of selling the family hardware store, Hudson is concerned. His dad loves that store. So he take vacation time off work and heads home to see what is really going on. Jack too has grown up in Foggy Basin but he has never left home. He is working at the hardware store and is the reason that the store is still in business. This is their story. I liked how Jack has lots of ideas on how to increase profits and that Hudson took his recommendations seriously. He respected what Jack had to say. Of course, there is the who drama about finding out why Hudson's dad wants to sell. When Jack and Hudson first start to interact, you can see the instant attraction on both sides. The book is well written and easy to read. I really enjoyed it. A small town story at its finest. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2024
A cute full length story about a country boy turned city who comes back home to take over the family store. He falls in love with the loyal employee. Great characters with a cute story, and my favorite, steamy parts.
Hudson is genuinely a nice guy. He never thought he would stay in Foggy Bottom and got out as soon as possible, but it wasn’t hate that drove him away, he just wanted to do more than what was offered in his hometown. I love how his dad didn’t hate him for leaving and fully supported his dreams elsewhere, even if he didn’t have anyone to pass the store to now.
And Jack was a character. Keeps claiming he’s an a**hole but all I saw was a younger guy a little stuck in his way. He wanted to see more of the world but didn’t really see how it was possible.
I like how it wasn’t instalove between the two. Yes there was an instant attraction but it took a bit of time before the affection settled in. Don’t get me wrong, they still move fast, but it wasn’t same day turn around.
I did receive an ARC from Booksprout and this is my honest opinion.
Hudson is genuinely a nice guy. He never thought he would stay in Foggy Bottom and got out as soon as possible, but it wasn’t hate that drove him away, he just wanted to do more than what was offered in his hometown. I love how his dad didn’t hate him for leaving and fully supported his dreams elsewhere, even if he didn’t have anyone to pass the store to now.
And Jack was a character. Keeps claiming he’s an a**hole but all I saw was a younger guy a little stuck in his way. He wanted to see more of the world but didn’t really see how it was possible.
I like how it wasn’t instalove between the two. Yes there was an instant attraction but it took a bit of time before the affection settled in. Don’t get me wrong, they still move fast, but it wasn’t same day turn around.
I did receive an ARC from Booksprout and this is my honest opinion.
August 16, 2025
Loved it
You gotta love a book about a country boy turned city boy who then goes back to his roots. Add in a gorgeous country boy who wasn't always sure he wanted to stay a country boy or if he wanted to travel and you have a wonderful book with a love story that feels right and makes you smile and almost melts your kindle. I loved reading about Hudson and Jack and their relationship progressing until Hudson starts to have dreams of owning his family store and working alongside Jack , who stepped up to keep the hardware store open. Those feelings also grow when they both realize they feel more for each other as more than a working relationship. Their attraction and the way they mesh even with their differences can't be ignored or fought and they don't want to fight it. But there are decisions to be made and I feel like they both respected each other and their choices and advice and they worked well together in so many ways. A great book and I really look toward to Isaac's story!
You gotta love a book about a country boy turned city boy who then goes back to his roots. Add in a gorgeous country boy who wasn't always sure he wanted to stay a country boy or if he wanted to travel and you have a wonderful book with a love story that feels right and makes you smile and almost melts your kindle. I loved reading about Hudson and Jack and their relationship progressing until Hudson starts to have dreams of owning his family store and working alongside Jack , who stepped up to keep the hardware store open. Those feelings also grow when they both realize they feel more for each other as more than a working relationship. Their attraction and the way they mesh even with their differences can't be ignored or fought and they don't want to fight it. But there are decisions to be made and I feel like they both respected each other and their choices and advice and they worked well together in so many ways. A great book and I really look toward to Isaac's story!
September 7, 2024
WHAT A GREAT BEGINNING
FOGGY BASIN sounds like a little piece of heaven. When REMARKABLE Multiple Authors band together to create a Series together, that are all standalone Books it's genius. BL MAXWELL brought magic to Foggy Basin when Hudson returned to town. Not understanding why his Parents wanted to sell the family hardware store he comes back. Something he never planned to do. Jack was working when he came in. Their first meeting was hilarious. Realizing he had missed this part of his life, he's planning to stick around. Jack is completely bowled over by this handsome stranger but oddly attracted to him. These men were level headed and decide to bring this hardware store back to its greater glory. I really enjoyed this Book. It's easy going, BEAUTIFULLY written with a joyful Epilogue. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS MULTI AUTHOR FOGGY BASIN SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
FOGGY BASIN sounds like a little piece of heaven. When REMARKABLE Multiple Authors band together to create a Series together, that are all standalone Books it's genius. BL MAXWELL brought magic to Foggy Basin when Hudson returned to town. Not understanding why his Parents wanted to sell the family hardware store he comes back. Something he never planned to do. Jack was working when he came in. Their first meeting was hilarious. Realizing he had missed this part of his life, he's planning to stick around. Jack is completely bowled over by this handsome stranger but oddly attracted to him. These men were level headed and decide to bring this hardware store back to its greater glory. I really enjoyed this Book. It's easy going, BEAUTIFULLY written with a joyful Epilogue. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS MULTI AUTHOR FOGGY BASIN SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
August 25, 2024
I love the little town of Foggy Basin and this book! The story of Jack and Hudson is sweet and wonderful and is an absolute must read! Hudson finds himself back in the small town he left when his dad tells him he plans to sell the family’s hardware store. Jack is the one other employee and has been keeping the store going. I love how Hudson finds joy in being in the store once he arrives and gets the idea to keep it in the family for another generation. He will find the truth about why his dad was going to sell the store and makes sure the person knows he’s been found out. There is a hilarious scene of revenge and with some great neighborhood characters, it makes for a wonderful tale that is a joy to read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2024
Hudson Carter left Foggy Bottom after high school and never looked back, save for occasional visits to his parents. Jack Hulbert has no intention of ever leaving Foggy Bottom, and is grateful for his good job at the local, small hardware store owned by Hudson’s family. Hearing that his father may be selling the store, Hudson immediately takes time off to visit – and starts thinking about how to save the store.
Jack’s first meeting with Hudson is funny – and makes Jack nervous, concerned as Jack is to keep his job. The two are drawn together, as they work, even though there’s a significant age gap. There are a couple hilarious scenes later in the book, involving a shady dude trying to buy the hardware store.
Overall, it’s a sweet, low-angst, workplace romance, and I liked it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jack’s first meeting with Hudson is funny – and makes Jack nervous, concerned as Jack is to keep his job. The two are drawn together, as they work, even though there’s a significant age gap. There are a couple hilarious scenes later in the book, involving a shady dude trying to buy the hardware store.
Overall, it’s a sweet, low-angst, workplace romance, and I liked it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2024
OLDER CITY BOY MEETS YOUNGER COUNTRY BOY AND THE REST IS HISTORY!💕
This was a rather quick insta love story about a country boy from Fogey Basin Jack Hulbert who always felt something was missing with his regular best friend with benefits hookup Isaac until he meets City Boy Hudson Carter…
Hudson is the son of Jack’s boss hardware store owner Jonas Carter and they get off on the wrong foot as Hudson might buy the store but will he stay in Fogey Basin?
Jack is attracted to his much older new boss but he has too many walls built up around his heart or does he and what about Isaac?
This is a quick insta love story about an older boss and his much younger store manager in a small town called Fogey Basin!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a rather quick insta love story about a country boy from Fogey Basin Jack Hulbert who always felt something was missing with his regular best friend with benefits hookup Isaac until he meets City Boy Hudson Carter…
Hudson is the son of Jack’s boss hardware store owner Jonas Carter and they get off on the wrong foot as Hudson might buy the store but will he stay in Fogey Basin?
Jack is attracted to his much older new boss but he has too many walls built up around his heart or does he and what about Isaac?
This is a quick insta love story about an older boss and his much younger store manager in a small town called Fogey Basin!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2024
Sweet age gap, small town romance
Hudson grew up in Foggy Basin and worked at his family's hardware store.
He couldn't wait to leave for bigger and better things because he had no intentions of running the store.
When his father calls to let him know he intends to sell, he rushes home to make sure everything's ok.
When he arrives, he has several run-ins with Jack, the young man who helps his dad run the store.
Initially, there's some distrust and animosity between them.
As Hudson delves deeper into his father selling, he realizes he doesn't truly love his corporate job and decides it's time to come back home.
Jack is slowly panicking because this job is his lifeline for independence from his family.
I really enjoyed their realistic, slice of life relationship and the quirky, nosy small town lifestyle.
Hudson grew up in Foggy Basin and worked at his family's hardware store.
He couldn't wait to leave for bigger and better things because he had no intentions of running the store.
When his father calls to let him know he intends to sell, he rushes home to make sure everything's ok.
When he arrives, he has several run-ins with Jack, the young man who helps his dad run the store.
Initially, there's some distrust and animosity between them.
As Hudson delves deeper into his father selling, he realizes he doesn't truly love his corporate job and decides it's time to come back home.
Jack is slowly panicking because this job is his lifeline for independence from his family.
I really enjoyed their realistic, slice of life relationship and the quirky, nosy small town lifestyle.
October 8, 2025
The book was cute but had a few plot holes including one HUGE one.
In the beginning Hudson talks about this company that is trying to buy his dad’s store. Then Hudson says he looked into them and shared some information as if he had become very familiar with them.
Then 3/4 of the way through, he starts talking about the potential buyer as if he never mentioned anything about them before and it doesn’t at all line up with what he shares at the end.
This was my second audiobook and I have to admit, the narrator’s voice was challenging in that it didn’t fit the characters or situation. I have spent a lot of time in Sacramento and the Central Valley where this takes place, and I don’t know that I’ve encountered anyone that sounds “country” like this…I also had to speed it up because it sounded like the Character, Mr. Atkins, was narrating.
In the beginning Hudson talks about this company that is trying to buy his dad’s store. Then Hudson says he looked into them and shared some information as if he had become very familiar with them.
Then 3/4 of the way through, he starts talking about the potential buyer as if he never mentioned anything about them before and it doesn’t at all line up with what he shares at the end.
This was my second audiobook and I have to admit, the narrator’s voice was challenging in that it didn’t fit the characters or situation. I have spent a lot of time in Sacramento and the Central Valley where this takes place, and I don’t know that I’ve encountered anyone that sounds “country” like this…I also had to speed it up because it sounded like the Character, Mr. Atkins, was narrating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2024
4.5 stars
This is an entertaining, amusing, mostly light-hearted story of a city boy returning to his country roots to take over the family hardware store and the country boy who works there, falling for each other. The blurb lays it out well for a small town romance with neighbors who know everything, the typical everyday hiccups in running an established small town business, a bit of an unexpected villian who gets a well-deserved comeuppance, and a HEA for our two MCs.
Realistic, relatable characters and situation, a good slice of small town life, rocking chairs and pastries, and a steamy connection between Hudson and Jack make for an enjoyable, not very long, afternoon read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is an entertaining, amusing, mostly light-hearted story of a city boy returning to his country roots to take over the family hardware store and the country boy who works there, falling for each other. The blurb lays it out well for a small town romance with neighbors who know everything, the typical everyday hiccups in running an established small town business, a bit of an unexpected villian who gets a well-deserved comeuppance, and a HEA for our two MCs.
Realistic, relatable characters and situation, a good slice of small town life, rocking chairs and pastries, and a steamy connection between Hudson and Jack make for an enjoyable, not very long, afternoon read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2024
Epiphanies, just in time! Jack, worked at the Hardware Store Nuts and Bolts since he was 16. He thought he would leave and explore the world. But 5 years later, he's still at the same store. Hudson, left Foggy Basin and has been working in the big city. He was never interested in Nuts and Bolts until his Father told him it was time for him to either sell or close. Hudson is surprised to realize his thoughts of the family legacy store. When he meets Jack, he is intrigued impressed and interested. They each have a chance to reevaluate priorities and what is really important in their lives. Nice cover art! Good story, great theme, nice characters, great flow. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2024
Mid Burn Small Town Love
This was a fun story about a city boy who left his small town behind and a small town boy who had embraced what the town had to offer. A single phone call sends Hudson back to Foggy Basin to learn more why his dad is selling their family legacy. Jack is thrust into Hudson's life as the store's long-standing employee and he's determined to hold not only his position and independence. There's a spark of attraction but the guys are laser focused on saving Nuts and Bolts. One trip back to Sacramento changes everything and allows the guys to explore their connection. Sparks fly and they officially become a solid team to come through in the end. I did feel that the age gap was glossed over and not acknowledged fully but still a great story overall.
This was a fun story about a city boy who left his small town behind and a small town boy who had embraced what the town had to offer. A single phone call sends Hudson back to Foggy Basin to learn more why his dad is selling their family legacy. Jack is thrust into Hudson's life as the store's long-standing employee and he's determined to hold not only his position and independence. There's a spark of attraction but the guys are laser focused on saving Nuts and Bolts. One trip back to Sacramento changes everything and allows the guys to explore their connection. Sparks fly and they officially become a solid team to come through in the end. I did feel that the age gap was glossed over and not acknowledged fully but still a great story overall.
November 12, 2024
2.5⭐️ Audio Review
I am new to this series but was able to jump in without issue. I did have trouble getting into Jack and,Hudson’s story, as it’s kind of slow moving for me and a little light on plot. Also, the narrator sounded quite old, which was a bit odd because for these characters. For me, it was a significant distraction- 21 year old Jack sounds like a grandpa. I also thought the two main characters sound quite similar. It’s a nice story, especially if you like minimal angst in your romance. The small town setting was what I enjoyed most, I especially appreciated the interesting residents. I might give it another try in book form, sorry to say I couldn’t connect with the narration on this one.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook.
I am new to this series but was able to jump in without issue. I did have trouble getting into Jack and,Hudson’s story, as it’s kind of slow moving for me and a little light on plot. Also, the narrator sounded quite old, which was a bit odd because for these characters. For me, it was a significant distraction- 21 year old Jack sounds like a grandpa. I also thought the two main characters sound quite similar. It’s a nice story, especially if you like minimal angst in your romance. The small town setting was what I enjoyed most, I especially appreciated the interesting residents. I might give it another try in book form, sorry to say I couldn’t connect with the narration on this one.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this audiobook.
November 23, 2024
I really enjoy BL Maxwell's stories, but this was a miss for me. I liked the premise of the son who left to fulfill the life he wanted but coming back when his parents are going to give up the store. I thought the dynamic between him and the longtime employee would be fun or have some tension. But I just wasn't feeling the chemistry. Jack made bad impression on me early on and I just didn't like his attitude. Hudson was okay but didn't stand out to me either way.
I also didn't like this narrator's work. I couldn't tell their voices apart very well and didn't really like the inflections in his voice as he narrated.
This one just wasn't for me.
Overall: 2 stars
Performance: 2 stars
Story: 2 stars
I also didn't like this narrator's work. I couldn't tell their voices apart very well and didn't really like the inflections in his voice as he narrated.
This one just wasn't for me.
Overall: 2 stars
Performance: 2 stars
Story: 2 stars
December 25, 2024
4-/ 3,5*.
The overall storyline is a snall town mm age gap read
Hudson finds Jack in his parents hardware store, when he comes back after working in the city for years. He wants to find out what is happening. An attraction develops, but can it become more all whilst findibg out ehy his dad wanta to sell or close up.4-*
Ad an aside I felt no love was lost between Hudson and his parents. They seemed estranged
Audiobook
Guy Veryzer has in my opinion not the right voice technique or tone for younger characters and unfortunately does not uplift the story at regular speed for me. However playing around with speed settings to 1,5/ 1,7 the pacing of his voice improves for me. The voicing looses some of the 'drag' and fits better for me but it is not ideal. .3/ 3,5
The overall storyline is a snall town mm age gap read
Hudson finds Jack in his parents hardware store, when he comes back after working in the city for years. He wants to find out what is happening. An attraction develops, but can it become more all whilst findibg out ehy his dad wanta to sell or close up.4-*
Ad an aside I felt no love was lost between Hudson and his parents. They seemed estranged
Audiobook
Guy Veryzer has in my opinion not the right voice technique or tone for younger characters and unfortunately does not uplift the story at regular speed for me. However playing around with speed settings to 1,5/ 1,7 the pacing of his voice improves for me. The voicing looses some of the 'drag' and fits better for me but it is not ideal. .3/ 3,5
August 28, 2024
Hudson left Foggy Basin when he went to college and became manager of some chain stores, but when his father called him to tell him that he was thinking of selling the store. Hudson had vacation time coming, so he went home to talk to his father about buying it, asked his father to give him a month to decide if he was going to really buy it or not. Jack worked there since school and knew that the store might be sold, but didn’t want to move back in with his family. Hudson and Jack decided to work together and make the store keep going and fell in love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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