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Learning to Love #4
Austin
Austin Russell doesn’t belong at a small school like Glynn Harber. He's meant to be a high flyer in finance not a book-keeping bursar. Now there's only one renovation project left to budget, it’s time he toughened his soft heart and got back to climbing the corporate ladder.
The truth is he’d rather climb Maisie Dymond’s father.
That urge doesn’t add up—Dom Dymond is his polar opposite—but when a near-miss brings them together, Austin discovers there’s more below his laid-back surface, especially as Dom’s determined to win the bid for the school's last rebuilding project.
Working in proximity means Austin can’t deny that they're opposites who don’t only attract, they combust whenever they’re close. Telling himself it's only a fling doesn’t ring true when Dom opens up about what keeps him in Cornwall. He’s there to heal his fractured family, and he wants Austin as part of it.
That openness makes Austin want to share too, but will Dom still feel the same attraction once he knows what drives Austin to keep climbing his ladder?
The truth is he’d rather climb Maisie Dymond’s father.
That urge doesn’t add up—Dom Dymond is his polar opposite—but when a near-miss brings them together, Austin discovers there’s more below his laid-back surface, especially as Dom’s determined to win the bid for the school's last rebuilding project.
Working in proximity means Austin can’t deny that they're opposites who don’t only attract, they combust whenever they’re close. Telling himself it's only a fling doesn’t ring true when Dom opens up about what keeps him in Cornwall. He’s there to heal his fractured family, and he wants Austin as part of it.
That openness makes Austin want to share too, but will Dom still feel the same attraction once he knows what drives Austin to keep climbing his ladder?
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First published May 25, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
June 5, 2022
Full. I am so full I fear I could burst. Riley’s stories and this series, in particular, get bigger, deeper, and brighter as they continue. I was gobsmacked with Luke and couldn’t imagine Austin’s story coming close. But that’s it right there. I couldn’t have imagined. I’m almost ashamed to admit that I responded to Austin’s prickly quills with some of my own. I thought he was a jerk. I perceived him as a selfish, self-absorbed prick. I couldn’t understand what Sol ever saw in him. And I despised his role in Glynn Harber almost closing their doors. Luke made room for him at his desk and within his heart. And now that I know Austin’s story, I’m so glad that there are Luke’s in this world. Kind souls that hold judgment and offer grace to everyone, even those against you. “Be kind. For everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about" rang true in every chapter of this sensational story. Many thanks to Con for reminding me.
Neither Austin nor Dom present the best first impressions. We are introduced to Austin in Sol’s book, but he stepped from the shadows in the last book. Austin was the monster sent to sever the final ties Luke and the school were clinging to. Luckily, he failed his mission and grudgingly became part of the Glynn Harber crew. He’s agreed to help temporarily. Keyword, temporarily. He has his priorities and can’t put them off much longer. Dom Dymond is a bit of a mystery. He flies in and out of the last story, religiously running late to pick up his daughter, Maisie. The glimpse we’re given is poor, an absentminded father often forgetting his child. Riley slowly reveals his truth, and curiously, both first impressions were wrong. They were so far off the mark I can’t even see them.
One of my favorite things about Con’s meticulous writing is the emotional pull. I have never read any of her stories and felt disconnected or unaffected. Discovering Austin’s past and Dom’s present was like stepping into a hidden room with a maze of halls. Every corner I took, my breath caught and my heart pounded harder. Why is money so important to Austin? Why does he insist he doesn’t do well with children when his actions with Maisie prove differently? Why did he flee from Sol’s life when Cameron came into it? And Dom! What’s with his ex? Why is money so irrelevant to him? What is going on with his adorable daughter? Why do the locals give him a cold shoulder when I know they are kindhearted? As you can see, there are many questions to be answered. Each explanation secured another piece to their puzzle. I was acutely aware of their attraction and passion, but the heartbeat of the story was more. It was family and trust, and above all, forgiveness.
Beware of: Ever-changing waters…with unexpected canals. Love takes many forms…including grief. And the ultimate epilogue…swooning guaranteed.
This book is for: If you’re looking for romance with more, I highly suggest you dive into any of Riley’s stories, but for the full effect in ‘Learning to Love’ start with Charles. Go on. You won’t regret it. I promise.
And don’t miss out on the bonus scene with Cameron, it’s so good!
Book UNfunk
Neither Austin nor Dom present the best first impressions. We are introduced to Austin in Sol’s book, but he stepped from the shadows in the last book. Austin was the monster sent to sever the final ties Luke and the school were clinging to. Luckily, he failed his mission and grudgingly became part of the Glynn Harber crew. He’s agreed to help temporarily. Keyword, temporarily. He has his priorities and can’t put them off much longer. Dom Dymond is a bit of a mystery. He flies in and out of the last story, religiously running late to pick up his daughter, Maisie. The glimpse we’re given is poor, an absentminded father often forgetting his child. Riley slowly reveals his truth, and curiously, both first impressions were wrong. They were so far off the mark I can’t even see them.
One of my favorite things about Con’s meticulous writing is the emotional pull. I have never read any of her stories and felt disconnected or unaffected. Discovering Austin’s past and Dom’s present was like stepping into a hidden room with a maze of halls. Every corner I took, my breath caught and my heart pounded harder. Why is money so important to Austin? Why does he insist he doesn’t do well with children when his actions with Maisie prove differently? Why did he flee from Sol’s life when Cameron came into it? And Dom! What’s with his ex? Why is money so irrelevant to him? What is going on with his adorable daughter? Why do the locals give him a cold shoulder when I know they are kindhearted? As you can see, there are many questions to be answered. Each explanation secured another piece to their puzzle. I was acutely aware of their attraction and passion, but the heartbeat of the story was more. It was family and trust, and above all, forgiveness.
Beware of: Ever-changing waters…with unexpected canals. Love takes many forms…including grief. And the ultimate epilogue…swooning guaranteed.
This book is for: If you’re looking for romance with more, I highly suggest you dive into any of Riley’s stories, but for the full effect in ‘Learning to Love’ start with Charles. Go on. You won’t regret it. I promise.
And don’t miss out on the bonus scene with Cameron, it’s so good!
Book UNfunk
May 16, 2022
Dom Dymond is my absolute favourite character Con Riley has created and we don't even get his PoV in this book.
Anyone who's familiar with Con's expanded world will have seen Dom's name crop up in Be My Best Man or True Brit, Jude and Rob also cross paths with him in the Bonus Scene for His Horizon.
But, until now, he's been a nebulous figure, our most common interactions with him have been in Luke's book as Austin repeatedly tells him off for always being late to pick up his delightful daughter Maisie.
So, what happens when a prickly school bursar with a secret guilt that stops him from forming attachments crashes headlong into Dom's orbit?
We get this book, the very best in what has been a quite outstanding series, and a love story which is all about learning not only to love someone else, but learning how to forgive too. For Austin, it's learning to let go of an incident in his past which has basically hung a noose around his neck for many years.
When their paths cross, it sends both men on a journey which is delivered in inimitable Con Riley style, filled with wonderful snappy dialogue, smoking hot sexy times, emotional feels all over the spectrum from rage to grief, guilt to passion and a whole big load of love.
This is the least angsty book in the series but Con still brings enough tension into the narrative as we slowly find out what causes Austin's caustic nature and why Dom's been late to pick up Maisie from school.
We get to discover that the snappy and terrierlike Austin, with his determination that Glynn Harber isn't the place for him, is actually a man desperately trying to make amends for an accident that wasn't even his fault.
We find out Dom isn't a feckless father, but a man who's given up everything to be there for Maisie whenever she needs him.
And we see that, together, these two men are a force as bright as a supernova, absolutely perfect for each other and both willing to take a chance at a lifetime of happiness.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
Disclaimer: As ever, I alpha read this book for Con.
Anyone who's familiar with Con's expanded world will have seen Dom's name crop up in Be My Best Man or True Brit, Jude and Rob also cross paths with him in the Bonus Scene for His Horizon.
But, until now, he's been a nebulous figure, our most common interactions with him have been in Luke's book as Austin repeatedly tells him off for always being late to pick up his delightful daughter Maisie.
So, what happens when a prickly school bursar with a secret guilt that stops him from forming attachments crashes headlong into Dom's orbit?
We get this book, the very best in what has been a quite outstanding series, and a love story which is all about learning not only to love someone else, but learning how to forgive too. For Austin, it's learning to let go of an incident in his past which has basically hung a noose around his neck for many years.
When their paths cross, it sends both men on a journey which is delivered in inimitable Con Riley style, filled with wonderful snappy dialogue, smoking hot sexy times, emotional feels all over the spectrum from rage to grief, guilt to passion and a whole big load of love.
This is the least angsty book in the series but Con still brings enough tension into the narrative as we slowly find out what causes Austin's caustic nature and why Dom's been late to pick up Maisie from school.
We get to discover that the snappy and terrierlike Austin, with his determination that Glynn Harber isn't the place for him, is actually a man desperately trying to make amends for an accident that wasn't even his fault.
We find out Dom isn't a feckless father, but a man who's given up everything to be there for Maisie whenever she needs him.
And we see that, together, these two men are a force as bright as a supernova, absolutely perfect for each other and both willing to take a chance at a lifetime of happiness.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
Disclaimer: As ever, I alpha read this book for Con.
September 11, 2025
How can this be anything other than 5 stars?
You know how this story made me feel? It was just like walking into a room warmed by a blazing log fire on a very cold day, a full body hug 🥰. Con's characters are just amazing, and Dom? Was just fantastic as was that little minx Maisie, and Austin absolutely redeemed himself. My lovely Charles Heppel made several appearances, and hopefully in the final story of the series Heppel Ever After, will get the HEA that he and Hugo so richly deserve. We caught up with several of Con's other characters in this story, and it would be so wonderful if most of them could make it to the impending nuptuals...oh, and thanks Con for the tasty tidbit concerning Sol's nephew Cameron in your newsletter. Big sigh...
You know how this story made me feel? It was just like walking into a room warmed by a blazing log fire on a very cold day, a full body hug 🥰. Con's characters are just amazing, and Dom? Was just fantastic as was that little minx Maisie, and Austin absolutely redeemed himself. My lovely Charles Heppel made several appearances, and hopefully in the final story of the series Heppel Ever After, will get the HEA that he and Hugo so richly deserve. We caught up with several of Con's other characters in this story, and it would be so wonderful if most of them could make it to the impending nuptuals...oh, and thanks Con for the tasty tidbit concerning Sol's nephew Cameron in your newsletter. Big sigh...
August 13, 2024
The standout part of this book for me is when Dom is explaining to Austin about his daughter's medical condition - a rare genetic disorder. I burst out crying because this is my son, and I have NEVER seen this kind of medical issue mentioned in a fictional book and I think I needed to see it.
The whole part about feeling guilt for your child's condition and developmental delays just spoke to my soul, because you do blame yourself as a parent, even when you logically know it's not your fault.
I loved the mention of the poem 'Welcome to Holland' by Emily Perl Kingsley. In the UK, when your child is diagnosed with something like this that makes them neurodiverse, you do get given a copy of this poem. It's something I look back to whenever I'm feeling overwhelmed or like I'm not doing enough, or when guilt about not meeting developmental milestones hits... it's a really good comfort and a reminder that you're just on a different journey than you expected but it's still an amazing journey. And I absolutely love that it was used to also show that Austin's journey wasn't going where he thought it was, but that the journey is more fulfilling and rewarding than what he had originally planned.
This series honestly makes my heart feel so full 🥹
The whole part about feeling guilt for your child's condition and developmental delays just spoke to my soul, because you do blame yourself as a parent, even when you logically know it's not your fault.
I loved the mention of the poem 'Welcome to Holland' by Emily Perl Kingsley. In the UK, when your child is diagnosed with something like this that makes them neurodiverse, you do get given a copy of this poem. It's something I look back to whenever I'm feeling overwhelmed or like I'm not doing enough, or when guilt about not meeting developmental milestones hits... it's a really good comfort and a reminder that you're just on a different journey than you expected but it's still an amazing journey. And I absolutely love that it was used to also show that Austin's journey wasn't going where he thought it was, but that the journey is more fulfilling and rewarding than what he had originally planned.
This series honestly makes my heart feel so full 🥹
June 10, 2022
I just love this series
I remember reading Charles thinking “this series can’t get any better than this.” It was just special. Charles, is so so special.
And while I didn’t love Sol as much as I did the other three books, it did bring us Austin. Who we were introduced as cold and prickly and rather unlikable. His character changed as we saw him in Luke, and I really looked forward to how his book would play out. Especially because Charles took a particular liking to Austin. I trust Charles.
This book is just impossibly sweet and Dom’s devotion to Austin from the beginning… it just gave me everything. THIS is relationship storytelling. THIS is how mature characters work through their trauma to find their HEA on the other side. And this is why I adore this series so so much. These characters are so layered. So rich. But there is no over the top unnecessary drama to make it exciting… it’s just… REALLY REALLY GOOD. I know a series is good when I just want to live in it.
My only niggle, and I’ve said this before in this series, is that the single POV kind of takes a bit away. I KNOW that’s what this series is… it’s single POV and I need to get over it, but I desperately wanted Dom’s POV as well.
But, that doesn’t take away my love and stars for this series. I can’t wait for Heppel-y Ever After… I almost wish we got novellas for all of our guys. I just don’t want it to end.
Thank you, Con, for this series. I adore it so.
I remember reading Charles thinking “this series can’t get any better than this.” It was just special. Charles, is so so special.
And while I didn’t love Sol as much as I did the other three books, it did bring us Austin. Who we were introduced as cold and prickly and rather unlikable. His character changed as we saw him in Luke, and I really looked forward to how his book would play out. Especially because Charles took a particular liking to Austin. I trust Charles.
This book is just impossibly sweet and Dom’s devotion to Austin from the beginning… it just gave me everything. THIS is relationship storytelling. THIS is how mature characters work through their trauma to find their HEA on the other side. And this is why I adore this series so so much. These characters are so layered. So rich. But there is no over the top unnecessary drama to make it exciting… it’s just… REALLY REALLY GOOD. I know a series is good when I just want to live in it.
My only niggle, and I’ve said this before in this series, is that the single POV kind of takes a bit away. I KNOW that’s what this series is… it’s single POV and I need to get over it, but I desperately wanted Dom’s POV as well.
But, that doesn’t take away my love and stars for this series. I can’t wait for Heppel-y Ever After… I almost wish we got novellas for all of our guys. I just don’t want it to end.
Thank you, Con, for this series. I adore it so.
May 23, 2022
Austin needs to climb up the financial ladder again, he has obligations, and his time at Glynn Harber seems almost over.
Now is not the time to start something with the man who thinks he hung the moon.
Dom thinks Austin is still hung up on Sol, Austin isn’t, he is into Dom, he wants everything with him, but he can’t, he will leave soon, he has to.
The storyline is breathtaking, and impressive, in the center we have Glynn Harber, where we can find Dom and his daughter Maisie, and Austin we met already in the previous story of this series ‘Luke’
Dom is clear about his feelings, opposite of Austin who’s holding back.
Dom! He’s everything, he’s strong, vulnerable, tender, and knows what he wants, Austin to stay.
Austin, on the other hand, is struggling, there’s so much going on in his life, he’s soft and caring, but he doesn’t see himself as others do. There’s so much beauty in Austin to see.
“You know I fancy the pants off you, right?”
There are so many sweet funny moments, everyone felt so naturally, my face hurt smiling.
And there are so many emotional moments to experience, that I couldn’t keep my eyes dry.
Looking at both men, one deeply loving his sweet child with needs, giving her everything that’s in his power, the other, stuck, trying to overcome his hurt and try to make the right decisions.
All the characters are so thoroughly developed, they felt like family as if I had known them already my whole life. Of course, we meet all the sweet dear characters from this series, they are all part of Glynn Harber.
I’m in awe of how the author created this series, all the feelings, the living circumstances, the awesome save space Glynn Harber and all the people involved, bring. It gives hope for the future.
I can only give high praise and highly recommend it.
Ps What a beautiful observation, the noise the kids make is the noise they are happy. Humanity can learn so much from all the people who are involved with Glynn Harber!
Now is not the time to start something with the man who thinks he hung the moon.
Dom thinks Austin is still hung up on Sol, Austin isn’t, he is into Dom, he wants everything with him, but he can’t, he will leave soon, he has to.
The storyline is breathtaking, and impressive, in the center we have Glynn Harber, where we can find Dom and his daughter Maisie, and Austin we met already in the previous story of this series ‘Luke’
Dom is clear about his feelings, opposite of Austin who’s holding back.
Dom! He’s everything, he’s strong, vulnerable, tender, and knows what he wants, Austin to stay.
Austin, on the other hand, is struggling, there’s so much going on in his life, he’s soft and caring, but he doesn’t see himself as others do. There’s so much beauty in Austin to see.
“You know I fancy the pants off you, right?”
There are so many sweet funny moments, everyone felt so naturally, my face hurt smiling.
And there are so many emotional moments to experience, that I couldn’t keep my eyes dry.
Looking at both men, one deeply loving his sweet child with needs, giving her everything that’s in his power, the other, stuck, trying to overcome his hurt and try to make the right decisions.
All the characters are so thoroughly developed, they felt like family as if I had known them already my whole life. Of course, we meet all the sweet dear characters from this series, they are all part of Glynn Harber.
I’m in awe of how the author created this series, all the feelings, the living circumstances, the awesome save space Glynn Harber and all the people involved, bring. It gives hope for the future.
I can only give high praise and highly recommend it.
Ps What a beautiful observation, the noise the kids make is the noise they are happy. Humanity can learn so much from all the people who are involved with Glynn Harber!
June 9, 2022
After reading Charles I kept an eye on this series, but none of the other books had caught my eyes until this one.
And I'm glad it did. 🥰😍🥰
This had all the characteristics of a Con Riley book: warmth, healing, community. With their own twist of course.
Having a relationship between a cold/snappy twink and a warm/patience big dude delivered all the feels. How they came to be, how they became a couple and how they healed. How they represented exes, not in a bad/ugly way but in a lovely "I used to love you, now I just love you but not like that way", it was such a novelty and so lovely!!! I was obsessed at how they each protected them and treated them well.
That's how it should be!
So yeah, this book had a lot of positive things that I was thrilled to read about. It was just lovely. ❤️❤️❤️
And I'm glad it did. 🥰😍🥰
This had all the characteristics of a Con Riley book: warmth, healing, community. With their own twist of course.
Having a relationship between a cold/snappy twink and a warm/patience big dude delivered all the feels. How they came to be, how they became a couple and how they healed. How they represented exes, not in a bad/ugly way but in a lovely "I used to love you, now I just love you but not like that way", it was such a novelty and so lovely!!! I was obsessed at how they each protected them and treated them well.
That's how it should be!
So yeah, this book had a lot of positive things that I was thrilled to read about. It was just lovely. ❤️❤️❤️
June 2, 2022
Before Luke's book, I think everyone who read about him in Sol's book hated him and thought that he's pathetic little snob.
Deep down, he wasn't. He was just afraid that what happened in the past, and his inability to be in a relationship with a man who has a child.
He has reasons.
And a reason alone was kind of made me a little it=rritated by him. Not that I didn't nderstand. I did. I do.
But Austin's stubborness tho... :P
This was the less angst from the overall stories, Dom and Austin and Maisy are cute together.
I think I fall a little bit more for Dom, and his eagerness to thank Austin, and what he'd give and fight for to make the relationship worked out.
I like the closure between Austin and Cameron has finally made peace between them. And I loved how mature Cameron's reaction about it.
Every story needs their own happilly ever after, right?
That's why I can't wait for the Heppel Ever After next!
It's better be the best of this series, because,it's Charles Heppel! I want it to be epic!
Eagerly, impatiently waiting for the next!
Deep down, he wasn't. He was just afraid that what happened in the past, and his inability to be in a relationship with a man who has a child.
He has reasons.
And a reason alone was kind of made me a little it=rritated by him. Not that I didn't nderstand. I did. I do.
But Austin's stubborness tho... :P
This was the less angst from the overall stories, Dom and Austin and Maisy are cute together.
I think I fall a little bit more for Dom, and his eagerness to thank Austin, and what he'd give and fight for to make the relationship worked out.
I like the closure between Austin and Cameron has finally made peace between them. And I loved how mature Cameron's reaction about it.
Every story needs their own happilly ever after, right?
That's why I can't wait for the Heppel Ever After next!
It's better be the best of this series, because,it's Charles Heppel! I want it to be epic!
Eagerly, impatiently waiting for the next!
May 27, 2022
Ah, Con Riley, yes you did it again! I was intrigued with Austin Russell in the previous book, when this school's 'enemy' charge into Glynn Harber, making Luke's life hell with school's finances. In addition he is Sol's ex and apparently he left Sol when Cameron came into their life
But then it turns out that Austin is not like whom everyone thinks. This book shows who Austin Russel is - and what tragedy in the past that drives him into trying to climb corporate ladder, and made him leave Sol and Cameron. This is the book that shows us readers who Austin is to the very core - how he really cares for people, how he tries to make amends of the guilt of the past, and how he LOVES. Because oh when Austin loves... it's glorious. Of course everyone wants to stop Austin from going back to London!
And then, there's Dom Dymond, the father of Maisie Diamond whom Austin has his own soft heart set to. I LOVED this relationship. I loved how Dom listens to Austin and be exactly what Austin needs. I loved that they're polar opposite but they really FIT together.
I loved Austin's moments with Cameron. I loved that Riley's other characters seem to suddenly pop out and make themselves cameo in this series, like Jason and Vanya from Be My Best Man or Ed Britten from True Brit or Nick, Tom, and Keir from His trilogy that precedes this series.
Some parts might feel a bit repetitive (especially Austin's denial for staying at Cornwall)... and I am a bit bummed that Austin's conversation with his mother regarding the tragedy is rather glossed over. But in overall, this one is a keeper for me.
Now I cannot WAIT for Charles and Hugo's wedding! Heppel Ever After can't come fast enough!
But then it turns out that Austin is not like whom everyone thinks. This book shows who Austin Russel is - and what tragedy in the past that drives him into trying to climb corporate ladder, and made him leave Sol and Cameron. This is the book that shows us readers who Austin is to the very core - how he really cares for people, how he tries to make amends of the guilt of the past, and how he LOVES. Because oh when Austin loves... it's glorious. Of course everyone wants to stop Austin from going back to London!
And then, there's Dom Dymond, the father of Maisie Diamond whom Austin has his own soft heart set to. I LOVED this relationship. I loved how Dom listens to Austin and be exactly what Austin needs. I loved that they're polar opposite but they really FIT together.
I loved Austin's moments with Cameron. I loved that Riley's other characters seem to suddenly pop out and make themselves cameo in this series, like Jason and Vanya from Be My Best Man or Ed Britten from True Brit or Nick, Tom, and Keir from His trilogy that precedes this series.
Some parts might feel a bit repetitive (especially Austin's denial for staying at Cornwall)... and I am a bit bummed that Austin's conversation with his mother regarding the tragedy is rather glossed over. But in overall, this one is a keeper for me.
Now I cannot WAIT for Charles and Hugo's wedding! Heppel Ever After can't come fast enough!
May 23, 2022
I am going to start with I absolutely love Con’s writing. She is definitely an author I am so glad to have found some time ago. I do not need to know a blurb as it’s an auto read for me.
Dom Dymond is a big softie, as well as sweet and SEXY. We have met him in previous books but most recently in Luke, when he surly would get an earful from Austin when he was late to get sweet Maisie. Dom is an amazing dad that loves his daughter to the moon and will do anything for her.
Austin is down right cut throat when it comes to business. He wants to Achieve higher and higher goals.
For both men, what you see on the outside isn’t really what is happening on the inside for them. Austin is suffering still from an accident many years ago that he can’t let go of. Dom suffers now but is handling him issues.
When tragedy almost hits, the two are sent on a path of learning to love and letting go. Things aren’t always as they seem.
This book had such sweetness with Maisie, some bu g laughs with one of my favorite characters Charles Heppel, some amazing sexy time with the guys and Perfect timing for that light bulb to go off for Austin to realize what he has on Cornwall that is full of love and friendship.
They truly make a wonderful match and Austin an amazing partner for Maisie.
Dom Dymond is a big softie, as well as sweet and SEXY. We have met him in previous books but most recently in Luke, when he surly would get an earful from Austin when he was late to get sweet Maisie. Dom is an amazing dad that loves his daughter to the moon and will do anything for her.
Austin is down right cut throat when it comes to business. He wants to Achieve higher and higher goals.
For both men, what you see on the outside isn’t really what is happening on the inside for them. Austin is suffering still from an accident many years ago that he can’t let go of. Dom suffers now but is handling him issues.
When tragedy almost hits, the two are sent on a path of learning to love and letting go. Things aren’t always as they seem.
This book had such sweetness with Maisie, some bu g laughs with one of my favorite characters Charles Heppel, some amazing sexy time with the guys and Perfect timing for that light bulb to go off for Austin to realize what he has on Cornwall that is full of love and friendship.
They truly make a wonderful match and Austin an amazing partner for Maisie.
May 28, 2022
Austin gets his well deserved HEA
As I’m reading this, I really really wanted Dom’s POV but Con Riley is single pov for these books so we only get Austin. He does wear his heart on his sleeve more than I thought he would. Dom always seemed very gruff. BUT inside he was a squishy marshmallow for Austin.
It was pretty low angst because you knew Austin had things to work out and through but you also knew he would not leave the Cornwall area.
Love and time heals old wounds. Both characters were a bit bruised but not broken from past experiences. They got each other and that made all the difference. Loved their story. This was a great series and I’m looking forward to Charlie’s wedding book!
AND I need Charlie’s friends story. Maybe a spin off series🤔🤔🤔
As I’m reading this, I really really wanted Dom’s POV but Con Riley is single pov for these books so we only get Austin. He does wear his heart on his sleeve more than I thought he would. Dom always seemed very gruff. BUT inside he was a squishy marshmallow for Austin.
It was pretty low angst because you knew Austin had things to work out and through but you also knew he would not leave the Cornwall area.
Love and time heals old wounds. Both characters were a bit bruised but not broken from past experiences. They got each other and that made all the difference. Loved their story. This was a great series and I’m looking forward to Charlie’s wedding book!
AND I need Charlie’s friends story. Maybe a spin off series🤔🤔🤔
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May 22, 2022PRE-ORDER, OUT MAY 25th
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May 25, 2022
Y'all. I love Con Riley's work SO much. She's got some amazing books, but the Learning To Love series has been such a treat. I didn't think she could top the His series, but she built on that and created a world I'd love to visit someday, populated with characters I would love to meet.
Austin wasn't so likeable when she first introduced him, but he's come a long way since then. Little Maisie's father Dom is a sexy man, and the chemistry between the two is palpable. They each have their baggage to unpack, and I love the way the story unfolds. It's simply gorgeous.
While you could probably read it as a standalone, I wouldn't recommend it. For optimum enjoyment, you should go back to the beginning of the His series and read everything in order of publication so that you get the full impact of Austin.
While you're at it, you may want to look at a backlist book called Be My Best Man, which charmed me a few years ago. t you're impatient though, start with Charles, which is one of the best books I read last year, which is saying a lot.
Austin wasn't so likeable when she first introduced him, but he's come a long way since then. Little Maisie's father Dom is a sexy man, and the chemistry between the two is palpable. They each have their baggage to unpack, and I love the way the story unfolds. It's simply gorgeous.
While you could probably read it as a standalone, I wouldn't recommend it. For optimum enjoyment, you should go back to the beginning of the His series and read everything in order of publication so that you get the full impact of Austin.
While you're at it, you may want to look at a backlist book called Be My Best Man, which charmed me a few years ago. t you're impatient though, start with Charles, which is one of the best books I read last year, which is saying a lot.
available-on-kindle-unlimited
May 27, 2022I read the first bits. The woe is me was ridiculous. Then we had to have the big "hero" scene. The we had to have the stupid teenager scene. Then he tried to tell the builder he was incompetent. Then, I'd had enough because every time I skipped a page or 3 it was woe is me, woe is me, woe is me.... it never ended. We had a really short "got my sh...t sorted" pages and he could have taken the job if he talked to people and kept the other one. Then there's the charity. Which unless I am wrong is solely paid for by Austin's bonuses and is only he and his mother since they up and decided to quit with a conversation.
Her first comment to him was to complain the company he worked for didn't advertise them. Then she did the guilt thing about Austin carrying it. Where's the advertising, the fundraising, the lobbying. Got "something's up with the kid spot". We had a quick "the teenager doesn't completely hate me" 9 months later. He's wearing the watch. All's ducky in the end.
Not grading it, not even marking it as "read". When I'm not tired of thin books - which there's been many lately that I've sent back to the library half read and simply deleted from the tbr - I'll try again. I'm not deleting this one because I do like this author most of the time... hence a redo later.
Her first comment to him was to complain the company he worked for didn't advertise them. Then she did the guilt thing about Austin carrying it. Where's the advertising, the fundraising, the lobbying. Got "something's up with the kid spot". We had a quick "the teenager doesn't completely hate me" 9 months later. He's wearing the watch. All's ducky in the end.
Not grading it, not even marking it as "read". When I'm not tired of thin books - which there's been many lately that I've sent back to the library half read and simply deleted from the tbr - I'll try again. I'm not deleting this one because I do like this author most of the time... hence a redo later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2022
..... (¯`v´¯)♥
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/ \ ♥♥
Review to come closer to release.
.......•.¸.•´
....¸.•´
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☻/
/▌♥♥
/ \ ♥♥
Review to come closer to release.
May 6, 2022
Oh, that was LOVELY! We get to see Austin, who started out as a bit of a villain (from what we knew, though by the end of Luke’s book he was much more approachable and sympathetic), really come into his own in this book, thanks in no small part to Dom, Maisie’s dad, who is PERFECT for him.
Though this book was lighter than some others in the series, it still had my emotions at the surface, from tears when Austin explains a tragic event in his past to laughter (especially anytime Charles is involved). I was SO invested in these characters, and it was wonderful to see so many from previous books. I don’t want to see the series end, but if this is the final one, it’s a warm and fulfilling conclusion. (Though maybe we can get Cameron a few years on? I’m not quite ready to let go lol)
Though this book was lighter than some others in the series, it still had my emotions at the surface, from tears when Austin explains a tragic event in his past to laughter (especially anytime Charles is involved). I was SO invested in these characters, and it was wonderful to see so many from previous books. I don’t want to see the series end, but if this is the final one, it’s a warm and fulfilling conclusion. (Though maybe we can get Cameron a few years on? I’m not quite ready to let go lol)
July 9, 2022
Con Riley writes well, but the series is becoming too sweet and unrealistic for me. I like a redemption story as much as anyone, but Austin starts the book already 95% redeemed, and the object of his affection, Dom, is so perfect that he qualifies for sainthood. Hugo and Charles may have already been beatified because everything Hugo says is wise, and everything Charles says is supportive (although frequently raunchy too). The question of whether Austin is going to leave Glen Harbor and take a high powered job in London is barely a threat to the HEA because money can't possibly compete with perfect man + adorable child + supportive friends. There are some poignant passages about moving on from grief and forgiving yourself for the choices you made when you were hurting, but they sound like the characters are in a group therapy session.
YMMV if you like gentle books with MCs who talk about their feelings a lot. I guess I've just become too cynical to enjoy them.
YMMV if you like gentle books with MCs who talk about their feelings a lot. I guess I've just become too cynical to enjoy them.
May 27, 2022
2.5/5
I adored Charles, but the rest of this series has been a big disappointment.
Here my problem with the relationship was similar as in Sol, it just didn't engage me at all due to a lack of buildup and stakes. The smut came very soon and other than that there just wasn't a lot going on. The whole "tension" around the renovation was also kind of pointless and anticlimactic since the actual process was then entirely skipped.
I found myself at 90%, having been kind of bored through a lot of this and skimming, and realizing there really wasn't a lot of plot. My fave character in the series is still Charles and he continued to steal every scene he appeared in. I am looking forward to the last book.
I adored Charles, but the rest of this series has been a big disappointment.
Here my problem with the relationship was similar as in Sol, it just didn't engage me at all due to a lack of buildup and stakes. The smut came very soon and other than that there just wasn't a lot going on. The whole "tension" around the renovation was also kind of pointless and anticlimactic since the actual process was then entirely skipped.
I found myself at 90%, having been kind of bored through a lot of this and skimming, and realizing there really wasn't a lot of plot. My fave character in the series is still Charles and he continued to steal every scene he appeared in. I am looking forward to the last book.
July 16, 2025
Voto: 4.5
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELVINO 1831
Ed eccoci giunti al quarto e penultimo capitolo di questa bella serie di Con Riley, capitolo dedicato all’ex compagno di Solomon Trebeck, da tutti chiamato Sol, protagonista del secondo volume della serie, Austin Russell, che nel precedente volume abbiamo visto aiutare Luke Lawson nel salvare la scuola di Glynn Harber, scuola dove ora lavora come economo, e nonostante qualunque tipo di pronostico avesse potuto fare sull’essere adatto a lavorare per una piccola realtà come Glynn Harber, i mesi appena trascorsi sono stati i più felici da molto molto tempo a quella parte.
Ora però è consapevole che dovrà lasciare la scuola e tutto ciò che essa ha rappresentato negli ultimi tempi della sua vita, perché se vorrà raggiungere l’obiettivo lavorativo che si è posto parecchio tempo prima quella non è la realtà professionale in cui potrà raggiungerlo.
Continua sul nostro blog!
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELVINO 1831
Ed eccoci giunti al quarto e penultimo capitolo di questa bella serie di Con Riley, capitolo dedicato all’ex compagno di Solomon Trebeck, da tutti chiamato Sol, protagonista del secondo volume della serie, Austin Russell, che nel precedente volume abbiamo visto aiutare Luke Lawson nel salvare la scuola di Glynn Harber, scuola dove ora lavora come economo, e nonostante qualunque tipo di pronostico avesse potuto fare sull’essere adatto a lavorare per una piccola realtà come Glynn Harber, i mesi appena trascorsi sono stati i più felici da molto molto tempo a quella parte.
Ora però è consapevole che dovrà lasciare la scuola e tutto ciò che essa ha rappresentato negli ultimi tempi della sua vita, perché se vorrà raggiungere l’obiettivo lavorativo che si è posto parecchio tempo prima quella non è la realtà professionale in cui potrà raggiungerlo.
Continua sul nostro blog!
June 16, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Austin is the fourth book in the Learning to Love series and can be read as a standalone, but is likely best enjoyed after reading Sol, the second book—and definitely after Luke, book three. In previous stories, Austin has been written as a bad guy, having left his partner Sol after Sol formally adopted his orphaned nephew, Cameron. His role as the hatchet man of the Supernus Group gave Glyn Harber headmaster, Luke, fits. Glyn Harber, the setting for the stories in this series, definitely felt the crunch of Austin’s cost-cutting measures. But Austin has redeemed himself to this point, made up with his happily partnered ex, and made dear friends of the staff at Glyn Harber. Which is why he must leave, now. Okay, not because he has friendship, but because Glyn Harber has no money. He’s only sticking around to make sure the renovation of Sol’s art building happens without breaking the available budget.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Austin is the fourth book in the Learning to Love series and can be read as a standalone, but is likely best enjoyed after reading Sol, the second book—and definitely after Luke, book three. In previous stories, Austin has been written as a bad guy, having left his partner Sol after Sol formally adopted his orphaned nephew, Cameron. His role as the hatchet man of the Supernus Group gave Glyn Harber headmaster, Luke, fits. Glyn Harber, the setting for the stories in this series, definitely felt the crunch of Austin’s cost-cutting measures. But Austin has redeemed himself to this point, made up with his happily partnered ex, and made dear friends of the staff at Glyn Harber. Which is why he must leave, now. Okay, not because he has friendship, but because Glyn Harber has no money. He’s only sticking around to make sure the renovation of Sol’s art building happens without breaking the available budget.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
May 31, 2022
Not the same Austin.
Sparkling story with heroes,
friends, kids, sex, guilt, swoon.
Sparkling story with heroes,
friends, kids, sex, guilt, swoon.
February 28, 2023
Oh Austin...such a sweetheart with so much pain on his shoulders. These stories always manage to rip my heart out and then build you back up with how utterly sweet everything is. I love how Austin learns he can be more than he ever thought, can have more joy than he ever thought he deserved. I love Dom and Maisie. They're both so sweet with Austin. He has a lot to move past, but the give him hope for the future.
I've loved everything about the men and this school. They've all been so committed to saving it and in the end have saved each other as well. Loved the heart in these stories.
I've loved everything about the men and this school. They've all been so committed to saving it and in the end have saved each other as well. Loved the heart in these stories.
May 24, 2022
When I want something beautiful and romantic and I just know to pick up a Con Riley book. We've seen Austin slowly grow and come into his own in previous books, but we learn so much more about why he is the way he is in this one. At times its so painful, but so worth it as Austin learns how to forgive himself and let himself fall in love. And Dom was just a PERFECT character. Strong, steady, and just what Austin needs as he becomes exactly who he is supposed to be. Funny, fully of love, and just the perfect end to an amazing series
EDIT: ITS NOT THE END. WE'RE GETTING CHARLES HEPPEL'S WEDDING 💕🎉🎉
EDIT: ITS NOT THE END. WE'RE GETTING CHARLES HEPPEL'S WEDDING 💕🎉🎉
December 22, 2023
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Every once and a while you come across the perfect author/narrator pairing. Where you just couldn’t imagine the words brought to life by anyone else.
Con Riley and Cornell Collins are one of those. They’re just meant to be.
Together they create an unforgettable masterpiece. I’ve previously read Austin when it was first released and was instantly in love (see original review below). But I’m so glad to say, I got to fall in love with them all over again with the audio version.
Cornell is such a talented narrator. I hope to listen to more from him, especially if he’s paired with Con.
___________________________________
Original Review:
Con Riley writes another masterful tale in the Learning to Love series.
Who doesn’t love a redemption story? And Austin was due his, which was beautiful, mushy, and sexy. This was a story that reminds us that running from our traumas won't make it go away and living life based on past expectations isn't’ going to bring happiness.
In Austin, he falls for Dom (along with the rest of us) and his daughter Maisy. They are a wonderful pair with a beautiful chance at a future once he gets out of his own way. A story that involves healing, forgiveness, and laughter. And though they’ve both been dealt some blows and there is sadness throughout - the book maintains a lightness that makes it an uplifting and bewitching story.
“Still, desire crackled to life out of nowhere–Austin awake in a way he’d almost forgotten.”
Love these two completely.
Every once and a while you come across the perfect author/narrator pairing. Where you just couldn’t imagine the words brought to life by anyone else.
Con Riley and Cornell Collins are one of those. They’re just meant to be.
Together they create an unforgettable masterpiece. I’ve previously read Austin when it was first released and was instantly in love (see original review below). But I’m so glad to say, I got to fall in love with them all over again with the audio version.
Cornell is such a talented narrator. I hope to listen to more from him, especially if he’s paired with Con.
___________________________________
Original Review:
Con Riley writes another masterful tale in the Learning to Love series.
Who doesn’t love a redemption story? And Austin was due his, which was beautiful, mushy, and sexy. This was a story that reminds us that running from our traumas won't make it go away and living life based on past expectations isn't’ going to bring happiness.
In Austin, he falls for Dom (along with the rest of us) and his daughter Maisy. They are a wonderful pair with a beautiful chance at a future once he gets out of his own way. A story that involves healing, forgiveness, and laughter. And though they’ve both been dealt some blows and there is sadness throughout - the book maintains a lightness that makes it an uplifting and bewitching story.
“Still, desire crackled to life out of nowhere–Austin awake in a way he’d almost forgotten.”
Love these two completely.
December 20, 2023
Just Wonderful✨😍
Con Riley writes such heartfelt fiction. I just knew I'd love this one. I totally fell for Dom! I’m definitely adding him to my Top 5 list of favourite book boyfriends!! He was such an amazing guy, so absolutely perfect, especially when it came to his daughter. He'd do anything and everything to make her happy and keep her safe.Throw Austin into the mix, and you've got one hell of a love story. This book has everything I needed in a romance novel and then some. There's just a smidgeon of angst (no spoilers!), but on the whole it's a thoroughly joyful story, with no meandering through will they won't they, or misunderstandings between the lovers. I loved how they fell effortlessly in love. It's such a heartwarming tale about fresh starts, and finding the courage to hope and love. It was also great to catch up with Luke, Hugo, Sol, and Charles Heppel once again. Le sigh🥰
Con Riley writes such heartfelt fiction. I just knew I'd love this one. I totally fell for Dom! I’m definitely adding him to my Top 5 list of favourite book boyfriends!! He was such an amazing guy, so absolutely perfect, especially when it came to his daughter. He'd do anything and everything to make her happy and keep her safe.Throw Austin into the mix, and you've got one hell of a love story. This book has everything I needed in a romance novel and then some. There's just a smidgeon of angst (no spoilers!), but on the whole it's a thoroughly joyful story, with no meandering through will they won't they, or misunderstandings between the lovers. I loved how they fell effortlessly in love. It's such a heartwarming tale about fresh starts, and finding the courage to hope and love. It was also great to catch up with Luke, Hugo, Sol, and Charles Heppel once again. Le sigh🥰
May 20, 2022
Glynn Harber and the crew there has a special place in my heart and Austin’s story was an unexpectedly sweet addition.
Austin Russell has built up quite the reputation for being a little cutthroat but also a little brittle underneath his tough exterior. After years of climbing the corporate ladder and working to hit his next target, he’s comfortable in Cornwall but feels like he needs to move on to continue to meet his aggressive goals. I loved that we finally got a chance to see Austin’s side of the story on why he left Sol and Cameron and what made him into the person he is today. His past heartbreak defines so much about him and forced him to build a wall to protect himself but there’s one man and his daughter who constantly succeed in breaking down his walls.
Dom Dymond is such an unknown until this book - he’s the father of a Glynn Harber student, Maisie, and he’s trying his hardest to be the best for her. His dedication and determination to being the best dad he can be and providing a nurturing environment for Maisie to grow up in is so charming. Dom is a sweetheart - he’s a strong, quiet man but he’s a big softie at his core, something that comes out around the people he loves most. He’s made a life for himself doing home renovations and is resolved to pay Austin back for his heroics by using his skills to do him a huge favor.
While they’d been watching each other for a while for different reasons, Austin and Dom’s relationship really takes off after Maisie’s accident. It brings them together in a way neither of them expected but their connection is undeniable. Being together brings out a sweetness in both of them that was unexpected but definitely enjoyable. I wish there was a bit more to their relationship development - so much of it was around Maisie which was incredibly adorable but I didn’t feel as deeply invested in their relationship as I did with others in this series.
I’m a little behind on my Con Riley books, but I can’t wait to dive into True Brit and Be My Best Man for some more glimpses into Dom pre-Austin. Really looking forward to more from the Glynn Harber family in the final book in the series and, of course, for more hilarious Charles Heppel moments!
Austin Russell has built up quite the reputation for being a little cutthroat but also a little brittle underneath his tough exterior. After years of climbing the corporate ladder and working to hit his next target, he’s comfortable in Cornwall but feels like he needs to move on to continue to meet his aggressive goals. I loved that we finally got a chance to see Austin’s side of the story on why he left Sol and Cameron and what made him into the person he is today. His past heartbreak defines so much about him and forced him to build a wall to protect himself but there’s one man and his daughter who constantly succeed in breaking down his walls.
Dom Dymond is such an unknown until this book - he’s the father of a Glynn Harber student, Maisie, and he’s trying his hardest to be the best for her. His dedication and determination to being the best dad he can be and providing a nurturing environment for Maisie to grow up in is so charming. Dom is a sweetheart - he’s a strong, quiet man but he’s a big softie at his core, something that comes out around the people he loves most. He’s made a life for himself doing home renovations and is resolved to pay Austin back for his heroics by using his skills to do him a huge favor.
While they’d been watching each other for a while for different reasons, Austin and Dom’s relationship really takes off after Maisie’s accident. It brings them together in a way neither of them expected but their connection is undeniable. Being together brings out a sweetness in both of them that was unexpected but definitely enjoyable. I wish there was a bit more to their relationship development - so much of it was around Maisie which was incredibly adorable but I didn’t feel as deeply invested in their relationship as I did with others in this series.
I’m a little behind on my Con Riley books, but I can’t wait to dive into True Brit and Be My Best Man for some more glimpses into Dom pre-Austin. Really looking forward to more from the Glynn Harber family in the final book in the series and, of course, for more hilarious Charles Heppel moments!
July 14, 2022
I've given this a B+ at AAR, so 4.5 stars.
The fourth book in Con Riley’s excellent Learning to Love series is Austin, a touching and heartfelt story about learning not only to love, but to forgive, let go of the past, and move on. Austin Russell had a significant role to play in the previous book, Luke, when he was sent by his employer, then the owner of Glynn Harber school, to carry out an audit they fully intended to use to force the school to close. Although he came across as rather uptight and snappish, it was clear that Austin’s heart was really not in the job he’d been sent to do, andin the end, he helped headmaster Luke to gain control of the school (with the help of some new financial backers) and agreed to stay on as bursar while things got up and running.
But now, Austin has decided it’s time to leave and get back to his high-flying financial career full of corporate ladders to climb, six figure salaries to earn and big bonuses to accrue. He’s really not meant to be keeping the books at a small, specialist school, yet he’s found a home in Cornwall and friends at the school, and he doesn’t really want to leave.But he’s going to have to if he’s going to meet the financial targets he’s set for himself.
His current project at the school – overseeing the budget and bids for the renovation of the art department – will be his final one, and he intends to hand in his resignation at the end of the breakfast meeting he’s having with Luke and Glynn Harber’s new backers, but that idea is scuppered when he observes a little girl tip-toeing along the sea wall. His heart in his throat, Austin fumes inwardly as he realises it’s little Maisie Dymond, who has, once again, been left completely unsupervised. Many’s the time Austin has waited with Maisie at the end of the school day for her dad to arrive to collect her – he’s never on time – and now, here she is again, left on her own. It’s impossible to prevent the sight of Maisie from bringing back memories of another little girl who came to harm because the person supposed to look after her didn’t – and Austin is up and running almost before she falls into the sea, diving in without a thought for his own safety.
Maisie’s father, Dominic Dymond, arrives in time to help get both his daughter and Austin out of the water, but even though Austin is a little banged up, it doesn’t prevent him from giving Dom a piece of his mind – “When will you start being there for her when she needs you?” At the hospital later, he’s surprised to find Dom waiting for him outside his cubicle – and equally surprised to see a very different man to the one he’s seen arriving at school late every afternoon. This man’s eyes are full of care and worry and his body language speaks of someone way past exhaustion – and when he tells Austin that Maisie’s mum was supposed to be looking after her, Austin realises he’s jumped to some very wrong conclusions.
This new understanding – Austin of how he’s misjudged Dom, Dom of how he needs to make changes to keep Maisie safe – also marks the beginning of a new awareness of each other and of the acknowledgement of a mutual attraction. Even though Austin plans to leave Cornwall as soon as the deal for the renovation project is sealed, Dom hopes he might change his mind and makes no bones about the fact that he’d love to get to know Austin better. Collaborating with Dom on the building project really brings home to Austin that he doesn’t want to go back to his old life, but he’s torn; not doing so will mean letting down someone equally important to him and not paying the debt he’s been carrying for many years.
While perhaps a little less angsty than some of the other books in the series, Austin is still full of the emotional depth I’ve come to expect from Con Riley’s stories. Austin has a reputation for being ruthless in business dealings – in his own words, he’s a “cutthroat bastard” – but the author slowly strips away the protective layers he’s built up over the years to reveal the gentler, more vulnerable man beneath, who has, for many years and for the best of motives, been shouldering a burden he should never have had to carry. If you’ve been following the series, you’ll remember that Austin and Sol (Glynn Harber’s art teacher) used to be a couple but that Austin walked out not long after Sol took custody of his then thirteen-year-old nephew, Cameron. I really appreciated getting the other side of that story and learning that Austin’s decision was born more of a desire to protect them than from any distaste for family life or parenthood. I liked watching him and Cameron coming to a kind of truce, too – and seeing how far Cameron has come since we first met him in Sol.
As with the other books, Austin is single PoV so we don’t get into Dom’s head, but the author does a great job of presenting him to the reader through Austin’s eyes. He’s a good dad and a genuinely decent man trying to do the best for the little girl he adores and the other people in his life while he also helps out his dad and runs a high-end, specialist business. His plate’s pretty full, but he’s absolutely determined to get it right, to be a good partner to Austin and a good father to Maisie. The chemistry between the two men sizzles nicely, and I really appreciated that theirs is a very adult relationship, with lots of give-and-take and a willingness to compromise and learn together.
I loved getting to spend a bit of time with the secondary cast of Glynn Harber regulars – especially Charles whose words of wisdom are priceless and who continues to steal every scene he’s in – and I loved finding out that the school’s new lease of life came courtesy of the company owned by Nick from His Compass
Austin is, put simply, a lovely book. Immensely readable, with engaging characters, a nice dash of humour and a sexy, slow-burn love story, it’s a wonderful way to spend a lazy afternoon. There’s a final Learning to Love book in progress (featuring, I believe, Charles and Hugo’s various attempts to get married!), and I’m certainly looking forward to joining this group of characters I’ve come to love for one last hurrah later this year.
The fourth book in Con Riley’s excellent Learning to Love series is Austin, a touching and heartfelt story about learning not only to love, but to forgive, let go of the past, and move on. Austin Russell had a significant role to play in the previous book, Luke, when he was sent by his employer, then the owner of Glynn Harber school, to carry out an audit they fully intended to use to force the school to close. Although he came across as rather uptight and snappish, it was clear that Austin’s heart was really not in the job he’d been sent to do, andin the end, he helped headmaster Luke to gain control of the school (with the help of some new financial backers) and agreed to stay on as bursar while things got up and running.
But now, Austin has decided it’s time to leave and get back to his high-flying financial career full of corporate ladders to climb, six figure salaries to earn and big bonuses to accrue. He’s really not meant to be keeping the books at a small, specialist school, yet he’s found a home in Cornwall and friends at the school, and he doesn’t really want to leave.But he’s going to have to if he’s going to meet the financial targets he’s set for himself.
His current project at the school – overseeing the budget and bids for the renovation of the art department – will be his final one, and he intends to hand in his resignation at the end of the breakfast meeting he’s having with Luke and Glynn Harber’s new backers, but that idea is scuppered when he observes a little girl tip-toeing along the sea wall. His heart in his throat, Austin fumes inwardly as he realises it’s little Maisie Dymond, who has, once again, been left completely unsupervised. Many’s the time Austin has waited with Maisie at the end of the school day for her dad to arrive to collect her – he’s never on time – and now, here she is again, left on her own. It’s impossible to prevent the sight of Maisie from bringing back memories of another little girl who came to harm because the person supposed to look after her didn’t – and Austin is up and running almost before she falls into the sea, diving in without a thought for his own safety.
Maisie’s father, Dominic Dymond, arrives in time to help get both his daughter and Austin out of the water, but even though Austin is a little banged up, it doesn’t prevent him from giving Dom a piece of his mind – “When will you start being there for her when she needs you?” At the hospital later, he’s surprised to find Dom waiting for him outside his cubicle – and equally surprised to see a very different man to the one he’s seen arriving at school late every afternoon. This man’s eyes are full of care and worry and his body language speaks of someone way past exhaustion – and when he tells Austin that Maisie’s mum was supposed to be looking after her, Austin realises he’s jumped to some very wrong conclusions.
This new understanding – Austin of how he’s misjudged Dom, Dom of how he needs to make changes to keep Maisie safe – also marks the beginning of a new awareness of each other and of the acknowledgement of a mutual attraction. Even though Austin plans to leave Cornwall as soon as the deal for the renovation project is sealed, Dom hopes he might change his mind and makes no bones about the fact that he’d love to get to know Austin better. Collaborating with Dom on the building project really brings home to Austin that he doesn’t want to go back to his old life, but he’s torn; not doing so will mean letting down someone equally important to him and not paying the debt he’s been carrying for many years.
While perhaps a little less angsty than some of the other books in the series, Austin is still full of the emotional depth I’ve come to expect from Con Riley’s stories. Austin has a reputation for being ruthless in business dealings – in his own words, he’s a “cutthroat bastard” – but the author slowly strips away the protective layers he’s built up over the years to reveal the gentler, more vulnerable man beneath, who has, for many years and for the best of motives, been shouldering a burden he should never have had to carry. If you’ve been following the series, you’ll remember that Austin and Sol (Glynn Harber’s art teacher) used to be a couple but that Austin walked out not long after Sol took custody of his then thirteen-year-old nephew, Cameron. I really appreciated getting the other side of that story and learning that Austin’s decision was born more of a desire to protect them than from any distaste for family life or parenthood. I liked watching him and Cameron coming to a kind of truce, too – and seeing how far Cameron has come since we first met him in Sol.
As with the other books, Austin is single PoV so we don’t get into Dom’s head, but the author does a great job of presenting him to the reader through Austin’s eyes. He’s a good dad and a genuinely decent man trying to do the best for the little girl he adores and the other people in his life while he also helps out his dad and runs a high-end, specialist business. His plate’s pretty full, but he’s absolutely determined to get it right, to be a good partner to Austin and a good father to Maisie. The chemistry between the two men sizzles nicely, and I really appreciated that theirs is a very adult relationship, with lots of give-and-take and a willingness to compromise and learn together.
I loved getting to spend a bit of time with the secondary cast of Glynn Harber regulars – especially Charles whose words of wisdom are priceless and who continues to steal every scene he’s in – and I loved finding out that the school’s new lease of life came courtesy of the company owned by Nick from His Compass
Austin is, put simply, a lovely book. Immensely readable, with engaging characters, a nice dash of humour and a sexy, slow-burn love story, it’s a wonderful way to spend a lazy afternoon. There’s a final Learning to Love book in progress (featuring, I believe, Charles and Hugo’s various attempts to get married!), and I’m certainly looking forward to joining this group of characters I’ve come to love for one last hurrah later this year.
May 28, 2022
4.75 Stars!
If you've been reading this series, Austin has shown up in several other stories since he is Sol's ex, then he also became Luke's nemesis for a time. Later in Luke, it became clear there was more to Austin than we had seen, especially considering how Sol treated him. My opinion of Austin really changed as I read this book and his actions in the past became more understandable. I'm glad that he was able to mend some fences with Cameron.
Dom is the father of Maisie, one of Charles' students. I loved that Dom wasn't intimidated by Austin's prickly nature and pursued Austin once given a chance. I loved how Dom and his family took care of each other and how Dom was willing to take a chance on Austin, even as Austin seemed to have one foot out the door. I loved how Austin helped Maisie with her fears by confronting his own and explaining some of his issues with Cameron. I loved the care and support that Austin shows Maisie throughout the book. He may think he's not good with children, but he really is amazing with Maisie. I was so happy that Austin confronted his past and worked with his mother to find better paths for them both. I was proud when Austin realized that he could be happy and chose that path. I loved how Dom took stock of what was going on in his family and adjusted his life to put family first, including Austin.
I loved seeing Charles again. He has a fantastic way of putting things into perspective and lightening the mood. I loved how Luke drew Austin into the envelope exchange with someone he really needed to reconnect with. I loved seeing all the characters from stories past and seeing them all interact and build new friendships.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
If you've been reading this series, Austin has shown up in several other stories since he is Sol's ex, then he also became Luke's nemesis for a time. Later in Luke, it became clear there was more to Austin than we had seen, especially considering how Sol treated him. My opinion of Austin really changed as I read this book and his actions in the past became more understandable. I'm glad that he was able to mend some fences with Cameron.
Dom is the father of Maisie, one of Charles' students. I loved that Dom wasn't intimidated by Austin's prickly nature and pursued Austin once given a chance. I loved how Dom and his family took care of each other and how Dom was willing to take a chance on Austin, even as Austin seemed to have one foot out the door. I loved how Austin helped Maisie with her fears by confronting his own and explaining some of his issues with Cameron. I loved the care and support that Austin shows Maisie throughout the book. He may think he's not good with children, but he really is amazing with Maisie. I was so happy that Austin confronted his past and worked with his mother to find better paths for them both. I was proud when Austin realized that he could be happy and chose that path. I loved how Dom took stock of what was going on in his family and adjusted his life to put family first, including Austin.
I loved seeing Charles again. He has a fantastic way of putting things into perspective and lightening the mood. I loved how Luke drew Austin into the envelope exchange with someone he really needed to reconnect with. I loved seeing all the characters from stories past and seeing them all interact and build new friendships.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
June 1, 2022
3.5 stars rounding down. I could round up but I don't see myself revisiting this one so down it goes.
I liked this I really did and it could have gone for 4+ stars if these 3 things hadn't happen:
1. I was going to RARE22Edinburgh when I started this so my reading of it was choppy. Here and there and I couldn't really focus all that much.
2. I'm always struggling with Con Riley's turn of phrase so it throws me off the story having to re-read a sentence to make sense of it and since I couldn't focus 100% here it was even harder and it took it's toll on my patience.
e.g. of sentences I struggled with "[...]How did that rope the part of him that was usually restless, constantly searching for that next rung, always climbing?" .
3. Con Riley always does this and sometimes the story is great and I don't mind but most times I just simply like the story and it frustrates the heck out of me. And what she does is the dangling carrot approach. The mysterious info being withheld till the last part of the book when it gets revealed both to the MC and the reader. I hate that! It's aggravating and frustrates me.
I really wanted to like more Dom's and Austin's story although truth be told this was less about them getting together and more about getting their lives in order with the cherry being their budding relationship.
The story never really touched on Austin's relationship with the Supernus group and even more so his relationship and maybe trauma that came from sleeping with his superior/manager whatever he was. Maybe it was shown on Sol but I never finished that book so I wouldn't know.
Frankly Austin's story never really touched meaningfully any of his relationships with his mother, Dom, Maisie or anyone. It was more a telling of Austin reaching the point of figuring his life out. So yeah not the best but not the worse either.
I liked this I really did and it could have gone for 4+ stars if these 3 things hadn't happen:
1. I was going to RARE22Edinburgh when I started this so my reading of it was choppy. Here and there and I couldn't really focus all that much.
2. I'm always struggling with Con Riley's turn of phrase so it throws me off the story having to re-read a sentence to make sense of it and since I couldn't focus 100% here it was even harder and it took it's toll on my patience.
e.g. of sentences I struggled with "[...]How did that rope the part of him that was usually restless, constantly searching for that next rung, always climbing?" .
3. Con Riley always does this and sometimes the story is great and I don't mind but most times I just simply like the story and it frustrates the heck out of me. And what she does is the dangling carrot approach. The mysterious info being withheld till the last part of the book when it gets revealed both to the MC and the reader. I hate that! It's aggravating and frustrates me.
I really wanted to like more Dom's and Austin's story although truth be told this was less about them getting together and more about getting their lives in order with the cherry being their budding relationship.
The story never really touched on Austin's relationship with the Supernus group and even more so his relationship and maybe trauma that came from sleeping with his superior/manager whatever he was. Maybe it was shown on Sol but I never finished that book so I wouldn't know.
Frankly Austin's story never really touched meaningfully any of his relationships with his mother, Dom, Maisie or anyone. It was more a telling of Austin reaching the point of figuring his life out. So yeah not the best but not the worse either.
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