For Fork's Sake

Farm 2 Forking #3

by Karen Grey

a Grumpy-Sunshine, One-Night Stand, Rivals-to-Lovers, Steamy Romcom

SAM
I hate my hometown.
But whether I like it or not, I’m back.
Putting me face-to-face with all the reasons I left, including the forking family I’ve been avoiding for years.

What I don’t expect to find in Fork Lick?
The woman who upended my world last year.
Making videos with my grandmother.

DIANE
I know what I’m hiding.
But the guy I left in bed after a steamy one-night stand…
I haven’t a clue what’s going on behind those Clark Kent glasses of his.

I’ve met his goofy dog Gomer, his social media-obsessed grandmother, and his sheep that lives in a palace. I know he wears a three-piece suit and a flannel shirt equally well–not to mention what he looks like underneath. I know he abruptly quit his job at that evil conglomerate.

Because of something I said.

What I can’t figure out is why he avoids his adorable, hilarious family. Or why he steers clear of their picture-perfect farm. Or what’s so wrong with cute-as-a-button Fork Lick?

I never felt at home in the Manhattan penthouse where I grew up, but I love everything about this tiny town. Including… Sam.

Problem is, no matter what his secrets are, mine are definitely worse.

Don’t read this book unless you love:
❤️Hot, grumpy, nerdy heroes
❤️Sunshiny, do-gooder heroines
❤️Zany Found Families
❤️Small town hijinks
❤️Steamy One Night Stands
❤️Followed by Forced Proximity Smexy times

Genres: Audiobook, Small Town Romance, Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

216 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 11, 2024

About the author

KAREN GREY is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of vintage romantic comedies with smart heroines and hunky heroes. Drawing on a long career as a performer, her retro 80's and 90's romances are populated with characters working both on- and off-stage in theater, TV and film.

She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.

To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.

If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey

Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen

Reviews

[Jen (That's What I'm Talking About)]

Sam and Diane have an instant connection that was fostered anonymously from playing an online game together. Their attraction is intense; however, after she finds out he works for a corporate seed company that goes against all she fights for, she ghosts him and blocks his gaming account. Fast forward several months and Sam’s got a new job that brings him back to his family’s farm where Diane is making a documentary.

For Fork’s Sake is the third book in the multi-author Farm 2 Forking contemporary romance series, each featuring a different couple with standalone romances. I did not read the first two titles, but they center on MC Sam’s brothers, who are side characters in For Fork’s Sake.

For Fork’s Sake is a cute, fairly low-conflict story. After a rough start for the pair, they begin working together and become friends. Diane feels at home with Sam’s family when he doesn’t, which helps him bridge the gap with his family. And being surrounded by Sam’s kind, hard-working family gives Diane the home she longs for. I like that they help each the other accept where they came from without compromising who they are and want to be. I enjoyed watching them each deal with some struggles and realize that they love one another as is. They make a great pair and I adored all the sweet and cute things they thought/did.

There is a subplot involving a self-diagnosis of neurodiversity which is based on comments from family/friends and an internet search, and I’m not sure how I feel about it. I appreciate that the author is creating some diversity and acceptance of neurodiverse characters; however, it felt more like a label than something that we could see was impacting Sam’s life.

In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Fork Lick, and now I want to go back and read the first two titles. I love the concept of the Farm 2 Forking series and recommend for fans of small town romances looking for some farm-based fun.

Review copy provided by author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About

[Jessica Alcazar]

UPDATE: December 2024 ⇒ 🎧🎧AUDIO REVIEW🎧🎧 5+ STARS

Erin Mallon & Alastair Haynesbridge not only brought this story to life for me perfectly, but they’ve also done it with all the stories in the Farm 2 Forking series! I was lucky enough to be able to listen to all the stories in the Ominibus ALC and it gave me a greater fondness for Alastair Haynesbridge as a narrator. Obvs, I already loved Erin and think she’s an extraordinary voice performer and it was a blast having in her in my ears for like 30ish hours! I already knew this story from reading it back in the summer, but when you read as much as a do, details of stories past get a little lost in my head and it was fun reliving this story again! A LOT OF FUN!

📚📖eBook REVIEW📖📚 ⇒ JULY 2024 5 STARS

I really like Karen Grey’s style! Her stories are so easy to get lost in, it’s ridiculous LOL. The minute I started reading I didn’t want to stop, except I started like at 8 pm so … not only did I not want to stop reading this story, but I really wanted to start at the beginning of this series ASAP. I haven’t had the chance yet, but they are both on my #ASAPTBR list!

I was looking thru my notes, and the first highlight was in the title page: A RIVALS-TO-LOVERS ROMANCE … How much do you love Karen now for not just using the generic *enemies* word and using the word that really fits the story? Me, I love her a lot for it!! Okay, that’s probably a me thing and has nothing to do with how the words on these pages made me feel, so moving forward :) (but I just had to mention it because *heart eyes*)

The story of Sam and Diane (yes, my brain said “Little ditty 'bout Jack [Sam] and Diane” as soon as I typed that because I am ridiculous and now the song is in my head *blink*) made me all kinds of happy and swoony because as the story progressed, I came to realize that they got each other in a way no one had before. They each had personal circumstances that the other helped in navigating. They grew because of each other. They just fit and it was just adorbs. The story was fun and full of humor but also dealt with subject matter (neurodiversity) that affects so many people in a respectful way without driving the story by these circumstances. I for one appreciate the way that Karen unfolded Sam’s character growth as an individual and also as one of a pair and how Diane enhanced his growth as an individual and as a pair. Make sense? *sigh* That was wordy lol but I’m leaving it as is.

Thank you Karen for the opportunity to get lost in one of your stories once again!

[Lori Leaf]

I really enjoyed this small town romance. I spent a lot of time on my grandparents ranch growing up and now currently work with extension agents in pesticide safety. All this is to say that this book was so relatable to me because of that. The family farm setting, sibling drama, meddling grandma, a cute sheep, an adorable dog, trivia and great chemistry made this so enjoyable to read.

[Jennifer]

This third book the series starts out with a bang, with Sam and Diane meeting at a hotel bar, then spending an explosive night together. The next day they realize they are on opposite sides of a political fight over agricultural methods with Sam representing Big Agriculture and Diane fighting to maintain small seed libraries and local control. Sam is so disgusted at the company line that he quits his job on the spot and tries to find Diane to explain and apologize, but she's already long gone.

Much to their surprise, they run into each other a year later at his family farm. Sam now works as a state agriculture extension agent and has just been transferred back to Fork Lick, while Diane has become close friends with his grandmother and is in the middle of filming a series of videos popularizing local farms and businesses.

Sam is an adorable but oblivious wiz kid with a fast mind who leaps ahead to conclusions and expects everyone to fall in line with his solutions because they are logical. Diane is the opposite. She's interested and engaged with everyone she meeets and makes sure that her video subjects shine brighter than she does. Nonetheless, the chemistry between them flares back up and can't be denied.

The book was on the shorter side but there was plenty of time to establish a strong connection between Sam and Diane. Add in family fights and mended ties, Sam's sweet failed service dog, Gomer, Grandma Bedd's pet sheep, Baabara, and assorted neighbors and friends and you have a great story, one that makes me eager to continue the series. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Jodi - JodiReadsnListens]

For Fork’s Sake by Karen Grey is the third book in the Farm to Forking series, and I was so excited for Sam’s romance. His instant connection with Diane was magnetic, and meant to be. I loved Diane’s determination to make her goals happen. Plus, Sam got to reconnect his family with all those Sunday family dinners. I loved the witty banter and the swoony moments between these two! I’m falling a little bit harder for each Bedd family member fixing love. I can’t wait for Colleen’s romance next.

[Marrissa Horton]

Sam and Diane had the best meet cute! Which was followed by a one night stand, and then discovered they had a professional conflict of interest, one that left Diane despising Sam. Months later they meet again at Sam’s family’s farm. I loved getting more of this boisterous family and their dynamics. Sam was such a complex character, and I loved following along as he discovered more about himself and what he wanted out of life. The banter was so much fun in this one! And special shoutout for Gomer, Sam’s dog. The animals seriously make this series even better.

I’ve had so much fun listening to Erin Mallon and Alastair Haynesbridge narrate each of these books. Their voices pair so well together, and they bring out all the emotions perfectly. I highly recommend listening to this series.

Thank you @homecookedbookpromos & @karengreyauthor for the ALC!

[Rubi]

What a cute story!
I really enjoyed it.
This was the first book in the series I read and while it can be read as a standalone I feel I missed a lot of background without having read the previous ones.
Overall loved the nerdy “vibe” Sam and Diane both gave off. The whole meeting via trivia app was a cute detail and I loved them together.
Also this book made me want a Gomer. 🤣
Can’t wait to dig into the rest of the books!

[LAJordan Leigh Ann]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ✨(0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥 (0-5)

What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 The bingeable length of the books in this series feels refreshing.
🤩 Fabulous characterization which makes for beautiful neurodiversity representation and quite the quirky and chaotic one-night-stand.
🤩 One-night-stand turns enemies-to-lovers vibes and I’m totally here for it! Chemistry, banter, tension, oh my!!!
🤩 It’s official: Fork Lick, NY is my happy place and Bedd Fellows Farm feels like home.
🤩 Beautiful descriptions of the small town and the farm beauty.
🤩 This book deserves all the pairings: hotel ice, ice cream, a sunset, trivia night, anything grown and freshly picked, a dog, bird sightings, an apple or crab apple tree, a twin bed . . .
🤩 I literally had goosebumps over a red-headed woodpecker, and that’s so not naturally me.
🤩 I’m a sucker for forced proximity in a childhood bedroom!!
🤩 Gomer is a trained medical alert dog (but failed the smell test) and the characterization here is extraordinary, second to none!! Dogs in books lovers will be so smitten.
🤩 Great social media fun! Show me some hot farmers and I too might pay attention to whatever you’re telling me about.
🤩 The grandma Ethel love is beautiful: “That may be true, but you do seem to need a home. And I’ve got one to share.” . . . “I think we have a lot to learn from each other, you and I.”

What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 You almost lost me at the seed sharing/agroterrorist hearing only because it’s way over my head. But it was only a few pages, so that’s fine. And I totally get that this was the important transition from one-night-stand to enemies-to-lovers as well as a life-changing and career-changing moment for Sam.
💫 I really wish we got some steamy details at Sam’s apartment.
💫 A little more farmhouse sneaking around would have been fun. I know, I’m greedy.
💫 I’m looking forward to Colleen’s story!

[Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads]

This has been such a fun series to read and I’m excited for Sam’s story. “For Fork’s Sake” is a flirty, thoughtful and sweet one night stand grumpy/sunshine romance that is a great addition to the collective series by different authors.

Sam Bedd is not a fan of his hometown and stays away as much as possible since his job involves traveling. Out one night, he meets a woman whom he has an instant connection with. Diane is also traveling for work and the two spend the night together. Both are surprised to see each other the next day and when it doesn’t go how Sam planned, he quits his job. After taking some time away to figure some things out, he’s back home on the farm and seeing Diane again was the last thing he expected.

Sam is a bit different from his siblings and I loved that about him. Sam knows that he didn’t quite fit in mold for farm work and went to do something else. He’s smart, caring and loves his family. I loved that it acknowledged that he could be a part of some part of the spectrum. Diane was great and I loved how much she cared about everything. She was doing her part to make the world a better place and that shined throughout the book. The two had an instant connection when they first met and it only grew throughout the story. The characters face real problems and deal with them like adults. Gomer the dog was a favorite for and how he supported Sam, dogs are really the best. These two were great together and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea)]

Take me to Fork Lick, NY please! Wow! I absolutely adored this small town romance and didn't want it to end! 𝙺𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗 𝙶𝚛𝚎𝚢 has quickly become one of my favorite authors and I will read/listen to anything she dishes out for us. This one completely consumed me, with beautiful chiseled characters and plot line!

I love a good one night stand story. I love a good rivals to lovers story. I love a good grumpy/sunshine story. To have 𝙖𝙡𝙡 of that (and more!) rolled into one? It was a delight!

I loved getting to fall in love with Sam & Diane. Their story is fun, full of banter, spice & angsty moments. It all rolled up into a beautiful story that kept me hooked and wanting more. To see them go from rivals to friends to lovers, was a beautiful transition!

The descriptive way 𝙺𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗 𝙶𝚛𝚎𝚢 describes Fork Lick, NY and Sam's family was awesome. I felt like I could truly picture myself right there in the middle of this awesome family. From the pets (Gomer and Baabara!) to Grandma Bedd and all the siblings, it was just captivating! I was there, in the middle, falling in love with everything about Fork Lick, with the chemistry between Sam & Diane being off the charts to the laugh out loud moments!

I am very much looking forward to going back to the beginning and diving into book 1 of this series, and for the next one! Well done, 𝙺𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗 𝙶𝚛𝚎𝚢, on another captivating story of family & what means to belong!

[Nix]

FOR FORK'S SAKE is the third book in the Farm 2 Forking author collaboration. It can be read stand-alone, but I recommend you read "Since you've bean gone" and " Butter you up" before starting this one as there's a well-developed backstory adding more richness to most of the characters. They are also FAB stories!!

We return to the Bedd family in Fork Lick, New York. Sam is the uber bright kid, who none in the family really understands and he's not feeling like he belongs.

"Family that sucks is still family."

He is also working a job he hates, having to deliver a corporate message, at a large conference, that he does not believe in. Diane is in the audience and is horrified of 'his' views.

Fast forward and Sam has quit his old job and found a new one more in line with his own beliefs.

Diane is on a drive to do good and ends up at the Bedd family farm. She is immediately 'adopted' by Ethel. When Sam turns up, they realise they've met before... they try to hide it at first which ensures some awkward moments.

Lots of misunderstandings, unmet expectations, and longing for acceptance. The obstacles are plentiful, but so is the attraction between Sam and Diane.

Trixie and Baabara are back. We also meet Gomer, Sam's 'failed' service dog.

Are we getting Ethel's story or not, I wonder...

[Jojoreadsromance]

I loved everything about this book!

Sam and Diane first meet when Sam rescues Diane from some unwanted attention at the bar in the hotel they are both staying at. After talking for a bit and discovering they have been challenging each other in a trivia app they both love for the past several months, they end up having an incredible passion filled night together only for Sam to wake up alone the next morning. But he wouldn’t have to wait very long to see her again when later the same day they find themselves with opposing arguments before a public hearing on agriculture. Diane disgusted with his views leaves without a backward glance, not knowing that Sam quit his job the same hour. Little did they both know their paths would cross again when Diane ends up on the Bedd family farm filming content for her YouTube channel…

This was truly a delightful read! I really enjoyed Sam and Diane both separately as characters and as a couple. Sam is incredibly smart, but he’s also felt like he doesn’t quite fit anywhere, including with his own family. Diane is also incredibly smart and passionate , she is opposite of Sam in that she feels comfortable around people she’s able to connect with and have easy conversations. But she has secrets of her own to work out. Both of them really learn a lot about themselves and each other and about family in this story. As a couple, they have so much chemistry between them, and they sure know how to turn up the steam! They had great banter, and they gave a balance to one another.

The overall story was wonderful. Karen Grey really knows how to balance drama with light-hearted fun. It was interesting , witty, and spicy. With awesome characters, an adorable dog, and a sassy sheep, this is definitely one not to be missed. Another hit from Karen!

[❤️ Mandi Listens & Reads ❤️]

✨ALC Audiobook Review✨
Title: For Forks Sake; Farm to Forking #3
Author: Karen Grey
Narrators: Erin Mallon & Alastair Haynesbridge

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Narration: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤

Dual Narration
Steamy
Romcom
Rivals to lovers
Forced proximity
One night stand
Small town

📚Story overview & Review📚
I enjoyed this fun and quirky small town romcom! For Fork Sake strikes a wonderful balance between light hearted humor and the exploration of important themes. The zany family antics were entertaining, and added a dash of warmth and charm.

For Forks Sake is the perfect read for anyone looking for a light, feel good story with lovable characters and a touch of humor.

🎧Audio Review🎧
I thought Alastair and Erin did a great job bringing this book to life. Alastair’s portrayal of the hot, grumpy nerd was spot on and added depth to the character, while Erin’s excellent comedic timing made the humor land perfectly. Their chemistry and delivery made the story even more enjoyable, and I found myself fully immersed!

[Christine Biesheuvel]

Silence is golden – but difficult to learn
Wow! Yes! Another wonderful story about the Bedd family in Fork Lick, New York. Samuel is the wiz kid, with an inquisitive and very fast mind. Always knowing it better, but nobody will listen, definitely not his family. After an incredible one night stand, followed by an awful presentation that goes against all he believes in, he quits his job and spends every day since thinking about Diane. Unexpectedly, after a lot of time, he meets her at the family farm, but it is not easy to win her back.
This series is really making it all come true, misunderstandings, hurt feelings, losing family and getting back together. Knowing you never fit in anywhere and finding out what might be causing it, understanding and acceptance. And always there is fun and laughter, and hot love making. What a marvelous way to spend time reading a book like this one.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nerdy.Scientist.Reads || NERDY]

3.5/5⭐️ 2/5🌶️
Such a cute, steamy romance! I definitely loved the banter and found it pretty comical. Sam and Diane are both a bit awkward and quirky, but they definitely have chemistry. Sam happens upon Diane in a bar one night being harassed by a guy she has no interest in. And being the gentleman Sam is, he cuts in and saves her. The two click instantly and have one night of passion before finding out their jobs have very different views, even if it is not necessarily what they believe in. Because of the rift the jobs cause, Diane blocks Sam and goes on about her life. Only, when Sam comes home after quitting his job, he finds Diane on his family farm. Can the two put aside their bad blood and reconnect or will they continue at each other’s throats? Read to find out!

[Amy Reierson]

Sam and Diane, the perfect reference for a Karen Grey book. Well if you're old enough to have watched Cheers that is or just really enjoy the 80's.
Samuel Daniel Bedd is ready to mend fences, start doing good for farmers even if he can't get his family to listen. Only one problem Sam is not a good listener or a patient thinker.
The catalyst for all this change, Diane who he cozies up to one night and then comes face to face with the next morning on the opposite side of an important hearing.
Nine months later by chance Sam is being transfered back to his home town area and Diane has been videoing his families farm. Sparks fly but not all good ones. Kissing happens. Some of it more like a tongue bath, meet Gomer a failed Medical Assistant Dog, who unknowingly has become Sam's calm, his patience and his ice breaker.
The Bedd Family stories so far have made sure to bring up important issues that effect everyday people, every day. Sam although never officially diagnosed is most certainly ADHD and possibly even on the spectrum. Although very high functioning. Sam's journey helps him see how his mind runs so fast sometimes he forgets others can't keep up with his thoughts. That your never to old to learn new things about yourself. And people who care well they like your quirky parts to. I can't wait to see what we learn about in the next Bedd Family Farm adventure.
I have voluntarily left this review.

[DarcyLovesLiza]

“Sam and Diane sitting in a tree…”

Story: 4.5 ⭐️s

Karen Grey picks up the Bedd family baton in book 3 of the joint Farm 2 Forking series and, so far, this one is definitely my favorite. Trope-wise there is some grumpy/sunshine-do-gooder happening, with a meet cute that culminates in a steamy one-night-stand (wowzer!), as well as some shades of enemies-to-lovers vibes when they meet again (though not in OTT way, which I appreciate). Plus, there is an adorable dog (❤️Gomer❤️)! So this book definitely pushed a lot of my built-in romance buttons in the best ways!

Sam (twin to Colleen, dog-dad to Gomer) is super smart, has all the facts - but that has somewhat alienated him, or caused him to alienate himself from his family (as is often the case, it turns out to be a bit of both as the story progresses). He knows all the ag-science, but he has a few lessons to learn people and he gets a great mentor in Carlos. Sam is also harboring some secret guilt about family wounds old and new. Diane McCarthy wants to make the world - or at least her small part of it - better. She has some secrets of her own, that motivate her ambitions, but this doesn’t prevent her being genuine in her intent. She has a passion for bringing attention to farmers and their practices and traditions through her YouTube channel. Though she and Sam are unknowingly on opposite sides of an industry line when they first meet, that dissolves rather quickly, which leaves room for other tensions to build when they meet again several months later. And what a reunion it is!

Sam and Diane are a fantastic couple. Despite a rocky re-start, they ultimately bring out the best in each other. They bond via shared love of trivia, a passion for farming issues, and admiration for each other’s abilities. Plus, they are FIRE 🔥 together, and this absolutely felt like one of Grey’s steamiest books. It probably doesn’t hurt that Sam is described as a dead ringer for Henry Cavill, which projected a picture of beautifully rendered sexy-nerdiness directly into my head the whole time; so, Holy Hotness, Batman! (Or Superman, to be accurate!) Of course, there were also beautiful moments between the MCs, but also between the MCs and the secondaries for humor, pathos, and character development. All in all, I just loved their love story and I felt like I smiled just about every time they were on page together - or on page with Ethel or Gomer! - which made for a great reading journey!

The development of the broader Bedd family dynamics felt much more present in this book than in the previous two, and I was all here for it. I think because Sam had his twin-mind-melding with Colleen and so many wonderful scenes with Ethel (she feels so much more like a tangible character rather than a plot device to me now!) - it all worked better for me this time out. I was compelled by the family connections - even when fractured or strained - so much more in this book than the previous two. I hope that trend continues into the next books.

The only element in FFS that gave me pause was the handling of Sam’s potential neurodivergence. When first introduced in conversation with Carlos, it came off as a bit arm-chair diagnosis on his part. And while Sam then talks with Colleen who has some training and experience as a teacher, I would have felt more comfortable if Sam had sought out a professional consultation to verify. As the story left off, he is seemingly relying solely on the combo of brief “I think you might be..” conversations, some questionable self-diagnosis through online tests, and cursory personal research. It just felt like this element needed a little more page time. Awareness of ASD, ADHD, or other diagnoses in adulthood, should absolutely be overt in romance, and it’s great that the attempt is here. One of the things I love so much about Grey’s writing is that she not only builds a beautiful love story, but that she so often imbues her characters with a variety of lived experiences and thereby makes such experiences visible. She also works hard to make that feel like a nuanced part of her characters’ existences, not just traits or quirks. However, while this aspect of Sam’s life had great potential, compared to her handling of other experiences (bodily autonomy, anxiety, trauma, etc.) in past books, this one felt a little under-baked.

Regardless, there is still a lot to love here, and I had a great experience with this book. Again, Sam and Diane (and Gomer!) are my favorite so far, so I wholeheartedly recommend their story. Now, I impatiently await the audio version of FFS, as well as the next book and Bedd sibling love connection!

I received an ARC copy of this book via the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

Audiobook Addendum - December 2024

Narration: 5 ⭐️s

The wait is over! The audio version of FFS has arrived and I loved every second of it! Erin Mallon and Alastair Haynesbridge did a fantastic job bringing Diane and Sam to life. Their skills shine, and that’s true of the whole series so far. Book 3 is where the F2F shared setting and characters really started to gel for me, and I felt that Mallon and Haynesbridge’s work paired well with that shift. Both performers handle the entire cast of characters so beautifully (Mallon’s approach to Ethel is particular charming), yet still always allow the central performance of the main couple to shine. Sam and Diane’s story is such a lovely and engaging one that returning to it in audio was a joy. I highly recommend it!

I’m grateful to have received an ALC copy of the audiobook via Home Cooked Books. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Jen Wycech]

This was so cute and funny.
Very enjoyable audiobook.
Dual Narration by Erin Mallon & Alastair Haynesbridge
Who did a great job giving life and emotion to these characters.

Small town
Rivals to lovers
One night stand
Family secrets

Diane is making videos on YouTube to promote seed banks and knowledge about farming. She shows up at Sam’s grandmothers farm to shoot some videos when she finds out it is Sam’s who was her one night stand she panics.

The story will have you laughing, a tad sad at points and will perk you back up again.
Mostly lighthearted story that touches on mental illness and grief.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5

[Tracey Cramer-Kelly]

OK, I’ll confess right up front that I’m not a fan of s-e-x in the first chapter. And, on top of that, the opening felt a little too cliché. However, I read one of the other books in this series and I had faith that this one would get ‘better’… and it did. Spectacularly. There were moments I actually laughed out loud. Sam was such a puppy dog/hot nerd, and his dog Gomer was truly a character. I love the way Sam came to realization of how he interacts with others and what that means to his past and present relationships; the way his brain functions; and the way he speaks (and the vulnerability – sigh!). I also love how this family embraces the messiness and works through it toward a common goal. 4.5 stars.

[Anne - Books of My Heart]

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
 

Review copy was received from Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

We sort of get an enemies to lovers theme, but it is more secrets and misunderstandings than actual enemies.  Sam and Diane have lots of things in common.  They both care about rural communities and farms.  There are some science aspects to each of their work.  For Fork's Sake can be read as a standalone.

Diane has left her family behind, disagreeing with their money-making choices.   She finds she loves these small towns, farms, animals and the people.  In fact, she really likes Sam's family.  I love her vision.

Sam hated working for the corporate job and quits right after he meets Diane.  He works at an extension job which is more suited to his ideals but he has some people skills work needed to improve his job skills. Developing those skills will help him with his family, too.  He really can't stop thinking about Diane.

I liked these characters well enough and they had insta-attraction, close to insta-love.  But they each have some personal growth to get through their secrets and issues before they can make a relationship.  I would say neither one has much relationship experience so they struggle a bit.  Their hearts are in the right place so it is easy to root for them.

I felt at home with the small town, 4-H and extensions programs.  I loved Gomer and his story, the sheep, the cooking and gardens.  The local trivia contests were fun too.  In a small town, you get all ages working and playing together which is fun. The other books in the Farm 2 Forking series are about Sam's siblings.

[Michelle]

This book was perfect! It was a balance of drama, romance, silly puppies, and family dynamics. I enjoyed how the author slowly peeled away the layers of the characters, showing us how they see themselves, how other see them, and who they truly are. The complexities of family dynamics including siblings, secret shame, and guilt were well written. I loved Gomer and it is always good to see Baabaara.

I read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am enjoying this series and plan to read them all.

[Andrea (Hammock and Read)]

We continue with this series in small town NY. This one starts with a steamy one night stand without last names that turns into an interesting next day at work. This turns from hot night to rivals to lovers quickly. Diane ends up on Sam’s family farm working on her educational videos, she is full of sunshine and loves his grandma. Sam is fighting with his brothers over farm ideas and is just grumpy and super smart. He gets moved with his job closer to home and just happens to meet up with Diane. These two have a lot of chemistry! We also got a cute puppy!

Enjoying this series! Can’t wait to see where it goes and who else finds their HEA!

[Elizabeth]

DNF at 10%.

Insta lust can be so booooring. I'm not feeling their supposed chemistry

🥱

[Cat]

Another amazing story in this series.
This one has a little bit of an enemies to lovers vibe but not at first.
Samuel and Diane meet in a bar and he rescues her from a man who won't take no for an answer...it seems like fate because they have actually being playing trivia online together for months.
An attraction sparks and they have a HOT one night stand.
But the day after when Diane has fled they do see eachother again in a professional setting and they are on opposite sides of a debate.
A very important argument though..I have to point out Samuel aka Sam HATES his job and what they represent and he knows what his company is doing is wrong.So after that meeting he quits,but when he looks for Diane to explain but she is gone.!!
Months go by and Diane ends up on Sam's family's farm being welcomed into the fold..she is filming for her social media and she is keeping a secret.
Sam now has a new job and he is working nearby so can spend time on the farm he discovers his gran has allowed someone to stay in his childhood bedroom..and it is Diane.
They are still incredibly attracted to one another,but Diane thinks that Sam is still with his old job and so she is not nice to him.
Anyway they find it hard to resist eachother and spend time together alot..as all the romance nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn



























































is unravelling so is some more of his grandfather's secrets.
Also Sam discovers that he could be Neurodivergent...I am on the spectrum and could understand Sam's quirky behaviour.
Narrated once more by Erin Mallon and Alastair Haynesbridge who are fabulous at telling this story they are a great partnership.Their voices are perfect for these characters and bring all the emotion and amusement.
As always I loved listening to them.
For Fork's Safe is such a cute story with a sprinkle of steam some emotion and drama.
Karen Grey has written a delightful book and I loved it.
Brilliant
5 Stars

[Rebecca Schuler]

To have a one night stand with a kind and handsome stranger only to discover the next morning that he works for the enemy. But the why’s for both Sam and Diane’s motivations and actions are multilayered. I enjoyed reading as they both worked to understand themselves, each other. Sams dog Gomer, as a “career-change dog” holds a special place for me, not all dogs that are trained to work pass the tests and most people don’t think about what happens to the dogs that don’t pass. I love that he was given a strong supportive character role as a faithful and helpful pup.

[Cheryl]

For Fork’s Sake by Karen Grey is the story of Sam and Diane. They meet at a local tavern and have a sizzling dalliance. Then, they discover the truth…they are political rivals in every way. They meet up again a year later…and things are still dicey.

Sweet story with plenty of angst, anger, rivalry, and romance! Sam is a stickler and has his priorities and beliefs straight. Diane is down-to-earth and believes the opposite.

Fun, flirty story!!!

[Kathi]

Conglomerate vs the Little Guy!!

Fork Lick, NY. A quaint farming town, home of the Bedd Fellows Farm. Sam Bedd is testifying for his company Congento when his boss falls ill. His amazing one-night ‘rescue” Diane is on the “other side” and shooting daggers at him. Already not feeling right about things, he quits to go work for the “little guy”.

A journey of growth, discovery and relationships for both our main characters. Each is likable, each has their struggles. A drop-out service dog becomes key. An epiphany. Entertaining, and a very enjoyable read!

***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****

[Quinn Fforde]

Sam and Diane have a lot in common: a love of trivia, an interest in small farms, and family drama. They are surprised to find out that they have been competing on a trivia app for months. That connection is enough to convince them to act on their chemistry, but the next day they discover that they are on the opposite sides of a critical farming issue. Months later, they reconnect at the farm that belongs to Sam's family and clear up a msiunderstanding. That family drama? It is going to be the thing that keeps them apart, possibly permanently.
I enjoyed this couple very much. Diane is very entertaining. I also liked reading about Sam's neurodiversity and how Gomer helps him.

[KristieReadsBooks]

This series is amazing and this book is a fantastic addition..

Sam and Diane’s one night stand turns into a delightfully funny, banter filled story that will steal your heart. The towns people are hilarious and I love the cameos of characters in the other books.

Diane is strong, determined and not willing to back down from her beliefs. She’s a city girl visiting a small town…I really enjoyed how she discovers the draw of a small town versus the city.

Sam is a delightful character who finally stands up for what he believes in regardless of families thoughts. He’s determine right his past wrongs. Karen does an amazing job touching on Sam’s discovery of being on the autism spectrum.

Gomer was the perfection..

Thank you Home Cooked Books for the Advances Readers Copy and alc.

Erin Mallon and Alastair Haynesbridge delivered a phenomenal performance!! Erin has an amazing voice and she has become one of my favorite narrators. Bags gives the characters perfect emotion, personality and voice. Alastair is a new to me narrator and his voice is so delightful! He also gave perfect emotion, personality and voice to the characters…and the way he says Baaabara!!!

The entire series is amazing. A fantastic listen!!!

[kgagnon]

I really enjoyed this rivals-to-enemies love story! Sam and Diane meet one evening at a hotel bar where they have an instant connection, leading to a night of passion. They really like each other but the next morning changes everything. Now, one year later, they are both in the same small town, on the same side of their agriculture devotion. Sam is excited to see Diane, but she is still hurt by his betrayal. Diane is staying at his family home, and Sam is finally home after being away too long. As they spend time together, they forgive and begin to give in to the attraction they still have. But they both have secrets that they are afraid to expose. Will they be strong enough to fight for each other when they learn each other's truth? I absolutely loved Sam and Diane, with all their perfect imperfections. They both understood each other and helped each other overcome their guilt, and anguish over events of their past, helping them to feel accepted and loved. This story had the perfect balance of humor, heart, and heat and I enjoyed every minute of it.