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Spruce Texas #8
Mr. Picture Perfect
"I'm no Mr. Perfect... but for Noah, I want to be."
It was just supposed to be a normal day at the Spruce crafts festival.
Instead, I accidentally save the life of my childhood crush Noah Reed.
And he has no idea how I feel at all.
He is adorable, tragically introverted, and frustratingly clueless about emotion.
Can't he see the longing in my eyes every time I look at his sweet face?
Doesn't he get it when I drop every dang sign there is under the Texas sun
that I have feelings for the guy?
To make matters worse, the mayor is organizing a pageant
featuring our town's hottest bachelors... and I'm number one on the list.
But I’m not interested in any other guys.
I’m seeing the bigger picture — with Noah.
I’m hardly an example of perfection. I'm no Mr. Perfect.
But I’d better find a way to tell Noah how I feel soon
before this whole thing gets out of hand.
If it hasn't already...
✔️ M/M "secret romance"
✔️ Shy recluse & popular guy
✔️ Small-town
Have you read all the books in the Spruce Texas series?
Football Sundae
Born Again Sinner
Heteroflexible
Wrangled
Rebel At Spruce High
Summer Sweat
Hopeful Romantic
Mr. Picture Perfect ◄◄
Hot Mess Express
(with more to come!)
What about the Texas Beach Town spin-off series?
In Too Deep
Crusher
Far From Paradise
(more on the way!)
It was just supposed to be a normal day at the Spruce crafts festival.
Instead, I accidentally save the life of my childhood crush Noah Reed.
And he has no idea how I feel at all.
He is adorable, tragically introverted, and frustratingly clueless about emotion.
Can't he see the longing in my eyes every time I look at his sweet face?
Doesn't he get it when I drop every dang sign there is under the Texas sun
that I have feelings for the guy?
To make matters worse, the mayor is organizing a pageant
featuring our town's hottest bachelors... and I'm number one on the list.
But I’m not interested in any other guys.
I’m seeing the bigger picture — with Noah.
I’m hardly an example of perfection. I'm no Mr. Perfect.
But I’d better find a way to tell Noah how I feel soon
before this whole thing gets out of hand.
If it hasn't already...
✔️ M/M "secret romance"
✔️ Shy recluse & popular guy
✔️ Small-town
Have you read all the books in the Spruce Texas series?
Football Sundae
Born Again Sinner
Heteroflexible
Wrangled
Rebel At Spruce High
Summer Sweat
Hopeful Romantic
Mr. Picture Perfect ◄◄
Hot Mess Express
(with more to come!)
What about the Texas Beach Town spin-off series?
In Too Deep
Crusher
Far From Paradise
(more on the way!)
421 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2024
323 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Daryl Banner
96 books1,992 followersDaryl Banner is a USA Today Bestselling author, composer, and performer. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston Honors College with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. He is happily married to his piano. Theory suggests this is why he writes romance.
During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.
Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
https://www.darylbanner.com/subscribe...
Follow him on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/author/darylba...
Like him on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DarylBannerW...
Connect with fellow readers in Daryl's Doorway:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Daryl...
Fun facts about Daryl Banner:
- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.
- He is a huge video game enthusiast.
- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.
- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner
- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com
During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.
Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
https://www.darylbanner.com/subscribe...
Follow him on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/author/darylba...
Like him on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DarylBannerW...
Connect with fellow readers in Daryl's Doorway:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Daryl...
Fun facts about Daryl Banner:
- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.
- He is a huge video game enthusiast.
- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.
- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner
- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
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April 29, 2024DNF @16%
I think the bloom is off the rose for me an MM romance books. None of them seem to hold my interest, lately. Since I really liked the previous Spruce Texas books, I thought I would enjoy this one, at least, but I'm so bored already and the cutesy stuff that seemed sweet previously now comes across as fake and performative.
Noah and Cole are both utter snooze fests, so far, too. Nothing is interesting about them. Noah, in particular, is just a wimpy dude that needs to get his act together.
Ugh.
I think the bloom is off the rose for me an MM romance books. None of them seem to hold my interest, lately. Since I really liked the previous Spruce Texas books, I thought I would enjoy this one, at least, but I'm so bored already and the cutesy stuff that seemed sweet previously now comes across as fake and performative.
Noah and Cole are both utter snooze fests, so far, too. Nothing is interesting about them. Noah, in particular, is just a wimpy dude that needs to get his act together.
Ugh.
April 21, 2024
Another Good Story
I enjoyed this one right from the start. Cole and Noah were both great to read about and so relatable. I read through this in no time.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I enjoyed this one right from the start. Cole and Noah were both great to read about and so relatable. I read through this in no time.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
April 21, 2024
Sugar booger?!?
Gah! This book was amazing! Daryl Banner is the most wonderful storyteller in the universe, and that is no exaggeration. The reader feels like they actually know every one of the characters as well as the setting of Spruce, Texas. Noah and Cole were such lovely MCs. I can definitely relate to both of them and their various anxieties and neuroses. Cole’s response to the interview question at the pageant was absolutely swoon worthy. The following are just a few of the ridiculous number of favorite quotes that I have from this book:
I don’t know about saving Spruce in any way. From my perspective, the town isn’t in peril. The only one whose hero I want to be right now is Noah’s. The only person whose attention I care to earn is his.
Maybe I was letting go of my only chance at true happiness, of the only person in the whole world who would see me for what I really am, who accepted me without any need to edit myself. Like a perfectly written first draft. No errors and no revisions required. Sent straight to publish, ready to print as is.
Even if things aren’t perfect right now, even if they’re not perfect in a week, or a month, or even a year from now, isn’t it the effort that counts the most?
Isn’t that the nature of most of life’s beauty? The imperfect treasures that enrich life’s special moments—entirely by accident?
Gah! This book was amazing! Daryl Banner is the most wonderful storyteller in the universe, and that is no exaggeration. The reader feels like they actually know every one of the characters as well as the setting of Spruce, Texas. Noah and Cole were such lovely MCs. I can definitely relate to both of them and their various anxieties and neuroses. Cole’s response to the interview question at the pageant was absolutely swoon worthy. The following are just a few of the ridiculous number of favorite quotes that I have from this book:
I don’t know about saving Spruce in any way. From my perspective, the town isn’t in peril. The only one whose hero I want to be right now is Noah’s. The only person whose attention I care to earn is his.
Maybe I was letting go of my only chance at true happiness, of the only person in the whole world who would see me for what I really am, who accepted me without any need to edit myself. Like a perfectly written first draft. No errors and no revisions required. Sent straight to publish, ready to print as is.
Even if things aren’t perfect right now, even if they’re not perfect in a week, or a month, or even a year from now, isn’t it the effort that counts the most?
Isn’t that the nature of most of life’s beauty? The imperfect treasures that enrich life’s special moments—entirely by accident?
April 23, 2024
This is a really sweet book about unrequited love, the sincere care of seeing someone and being seen, and fumbling your way towards happiness. I think this is my favorite book of the series! Noah and Cole are both so wonderful, the whole pageant/auction situation is delightfully ridiculous, and we get many fun cameos.
I loved the character development for the two MCs, which made their romance extra sweet. I also loved that there were seeds planted for several future books!
I know this book is longer than a lot of contemporary romance, and longer than most of the others in the series, but to me it didn't feel too long. The pacing kept me interested throughout.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5: Better than great, an undeniably enjoyable read
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3: Medium Salsa (A few open door scenes with explicit descriptions, but not very detailed)
Perspective: first
Tense: present
POV: dual
I loved the character development for the two MCs, which made their romance extra sweet. I also loved that there were seeds planted for several future books!
I know this book is longer than a lot of contemporary romance, and longer than most of the others in the series, but to me it didn't feel too long. The pacing kept me interested throughout.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5: Better than great, an undeniably enjoyable read
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3: Medium Salsa (A few open door scenes with explicit descriptions, but not very detailed)
Perspective: first
Tense: present
POV: dual
April 23, 2024
Love this series
Love this family
Noah and Coles intense emotional heartstopping Romcom love story
All the feels
Ready for more
Love this family
Noah and Coles intense emotional heartstopping Romcom love story
All the feels
Ready for more
April 29, 2024
As I started reading this new Spruce Texas novel, I was not feeling it. As I kept reading, I was thinking, "This is a solid 4 star story" because Daryl is absolutely a great storyteller. I could hear the Southern twang when he described how people spoke. I could visualize Anthony's freakouts and crazy behavior because Daryl's words are vivid enough to do that. There were so many outrageous similes and metaphors that I couldn't stop laughing out loud. In the end, the story becomes less about Noah and Cole's romance and more about how an entire town can pull together for each other. In the end, this became a 5 star story not because of steam (but yeah, there was some nice steam in this story) but because I learned a lesson. Noah learned that he was never really as alone as he thought he was, and I believe that if we open our hearts and minds, we can see that we, too, have a community surrounding us. "Who am I to judge anyone else's happy ending?" Indeed.
August 15, 2024
I loved this book. Noah and Cole are great characters. I love watching all their layers being peeled away and seeing the men deep inside.
I loved getting to know their family and all the imperfections.
I loved getting re acquainted will all my favorite characters from the past books in this series.
This story really gripped me from beginning and took me on a ride with my emotions. This book has so many zanny and quotable lines.
This can be a stand alone book but if you haven't read the previous books in the series I highly recommend going and meeting those characters.
I loved getting to know their family and all the imperfections.
I loved getting re acquainted will all my favorite characters from the past books in this series.
This story really gripped me from beginning and took me on a ride with my emotions. This book has so many zanny and quotable lines.
This can be a stand alone book but if you haven't read the previous books in the series I highly recommend going and meeting those characters.
April 19, 2024
I loved this book! Noah and Cole were perfect together! This story grabbed me from the start. I couldn’t put it down! I enjoyed getting to know these two guys and their families, imperfections and all. Catching up with much loved characters from previous books was very enjoyable! I love all the Spruce Texas books and Mr Picture Perfect is a fantastic addition!
April 23, 2024
Spruce Texas
What an incredibly sweet story of finding yourself and your true love. Cole and Noah sent to school together. They were maybe friends but not friend friends. All of that changes with a saving grace that Cole does for Noah. Let the fun begin. Great story with lots of insights into self for Noah and Cole. Enjoy.
What an incredibly sweet story of finding yourself and your true love. Cole and Noah sent to school together. They were maybe friends but not friend friends. All of that changes with a saving grace that Cole does for Noah. Let the fun begin. Great story with lots of insights into self for Noah and Cole. Enjoy.
May 3, 2024
I love Spruce and was excited to head back BUT I did find this a little long winded in parts (skipped bits) and the huge cast of characters got me confused.
However Noah and Coles story was sweet and almost innocent with mild but def not steamy smexy times!
Noah's nervousness and Coles protectiveness def shone through!
However Noah and Coles story was sweet and almost innocent with mild but def not steamy smexy times!
Noah's nervousness and Coles protectiveness def shone through!
May 10, 2024
”You don’t have to be so gentle with me,” he whispers.
He says this while I have my hands on his ass, squeezing like I expect to wring milk out of it.
“Wring milk out of it” took me out. All of my reading lately has been heavy thematically and my romance selections a little too PG-13, so it was definitely time for something a little sweet and spicy such as Mr. Picture Perfect by Daryl Banner. I’ve always enjoyed Banner’s romance novels and the residents of Spruce, Texas have a special place in my heart so I was over the moon when I found out a new book in the series was released. In MPP, we are introduced to Noah Reed, a shy and unassuming young man, who works for the local newspaper. Sent out to cover the local festival for the paper, he’s almost injured in an accident when Cole Harding swoops in and saves the day. Cole’s been harboring a crush on Noah since high school and the event reconnects the two young men, but things are complicated thanks to the ever willful mayor, Nadine Strong. Nadine, inspired by Cole’s heroism, decides to throw a Spruce’s Most Eligible Bachelor Pageant with Cole as one of the bachelors, because lord honey they’ll just do any old thing in that town.
On the surface, the plot is appropriately silly and wholesome for a romance novel. Where this book really shines is in the way Daryl Banner crafts such complex and endearing characters. Cole, our “Mr. Picture Perfect,” seemingly has it all with his winning personality and good looks. He’s easy to love and clearly smitten with Noah, who he is always encouraging to share more of himself. There’s this great duality, however, where Cole doesn’t share everything going on in his own life. His home life is troubled and his mother’s alcoholism is clearly taking a toll on their family, something he shields from the outside world. These moments of vulnerability, when we’re able to see Cole interact with his mother and his struggle to share something other than his sunny disposition with Noah is where we really swoon for this character. Definitely a new favorite Spruce leading man for me (although the line “Nobody puts Bobby in a corner” is forever etched into my heart; nobody beats Jimmy Strong.)
Noah! His shyness and awkwardness were relatable and made him a perfect pairing for Cole. It was really sweet the way Banner took the time to craft a history for not only the two men, but also for their families. It’s also nice that his behavior and his personality are never questioned or commented upon beyond observation of his character (no diagnosis/label attached), simply accepted. There were times, however, that I wish the way he interacted with his parents was addressed or corrected. He was pretty harsh towards his mother at moments and I wanted to wag my finger at him.
My only real criticism of this story is that the accident that Cole prevents is literally a tower of picture frames falling over on Noah. I totally get how that would be dangerous, but everyone in the book acts as if it were some horrible, gruesome thing about to take out the poor boy like a Final Destination movie. I get that it works well with the title, Picture Perfect/picture frames/not all is what it seems, but there were a few times I was like….girl, it’s not that serious. The spicy scenes were absolutely filthy and fun, the romance was sweet, and this latest story in the Spruce, Texas story exceeded my expectations. I sincerely hope the homosexual population of this fictional town continues to grow and thrive!
He says this while I have my hands on his ass, squeezing like I expect to wring milk out of it.
“Wring milk out of it” took me out. All of my reading lately has been heavy thematically and my romance selections a little too PG-13, so it was definitely time for something a little sweet and spicy such as Mr. Picture Perfect by Daryl Banner. I’ve always enjoyed Banner’s romance novels and the residents of Spruce, Texas have a special place in my heart so I was over the moon when I found out a new book in the series was released. In MPP, we are introduced to Noah Reed, a shy and unassuming young man, who works for the local newspaper. Sent out to cover the local festival for the paper, he’s almost injured in an accident when Cole Harding swoops in and saves the day. Cole’s been harboring a crush on Noah since high school and the event reconnects the two young men, but things are complicated thanks to the ever willful mayor, Nadine Strong. Nadine, inspired by Cole’s heroism, decides to throw a Spruce’s Most Eligible Bachelor Pageant with Cole as one of the bachelors, because lord honey they’ll just do any old thing in that town.
On the surface, the plot is appropriately silly and wholesome for a romance novel. Where this book really shines is in the way Daryl Banner crafts such complex and endearing characters. Cole, our “Mr. Picture Perfect,” seemingly has it all with his winning personality and good looks. He’s easy to love and clearly smitten with Noah, who he is always encouraging to share more of himself. There’s this great duality, however, where Cole doesn’t share everything going on in his own life. His home life is troubled and his mother’s alcoholism is clearly taking a toll on their family, something he shields from the outside world. These moments of vulnerability, when we’re able to see Cole interact with his mother and his struggle to share something other than his sunny disposition with Noah is where we really swoon for this character. Definitely a new favorite Spruce leading man for me (although the line “Nobody puts Bobby in a corner” is forever etched into my heart; nobody beats Jimmy Strong.)
Noah! His shyness and awkwardness were relatable and made him a perfect pairing for Cole. It was really sweet the way Banner took the time to craft a history for not only the two men, but also for their families. It’s also nice that his behavior and his personality are never questioned or commented upon beyond observation of his character (no diagnosis/label attached), simply accepted. There were times, however, that I wish the way he interacted with his parents was addressed or corrected. He was pretty harsh towards his mother at moments and I wanted to wag my finger at him.
My only real criticism of this story is that the accident that Cole prevents is literally a tower of picture frames falling over on Noah. I totally get how that would be dangerous, but everyone in the book acts as if it were some horrible, gruesome thing about to take out the poor boy like a Final Destination movie. I get that it works well with the title, Picture Perfect/picture frames/not all is what it seems, but there were a few times I was like….girl, it’s not that serious. The spicy scenes were absolutely filthy and fun, the romance was sweet, and this latest story in the Spruce, Texas story exceeded my expectations. I sincerely hope the homosexual population of this fictional town continues to grow and thrive!
May 16, 2024
I love Spruce, Texas and its quirky inhabitants! I always look forward to a new installment and to meet our newest couple. I downloaded this one on KU and started reading it, but I will admit that it was just a bit slow for me and I ended up shelving it until the audio was released. I knew I'd have to listen to it for it to really keep my attention.
The author does a nice job of narrating his own work, which is not always the case for some other authors I've listened to in the past. This helped a lot to get me over the slow start of the book. I just wasn't sure I was going to like the limp noodle that Noah seemed to be. Letting his boss walk all over him, not being able to say anything to Cole after he saved him from the falling frames, and so on. I just needed him to have SOME sort of backbone. It took a while for him to really come around, but once he started to show it, I warmed up to him.
I enjoyed Cole from the start and wondered why he had such strong feelings for Noah even after they had stopped being friends from childhood. That question gets answered later on in the book in a very sweet and loving way. Swoon!
I felt the pageant plot was weird. It just didn't fit and while I understand that Mayor Nadine gets what she wants, it just felt contrived and didn't fit the story. There could have been better ways putting roadblocks in the story. It could have been saved for future books. It's funny, but it just didn't work for me.
Also, I never fully understood the rift between the mothers. It wasn't fully fleshed out and made no sense. Why exactly were they mad at each other? Someone got hurt? They blamed each other? I don't understand it completely. In any case, I think that could have been a better subplot and could have been the trope for the book. That's just me, though.
All in all I still give it four stars because I really did enjoy it for what it was and I love Daryl's writing and story telling. I love Spruce and the people who live there. Looking forward to my next visit!
The author does a nice job of narrating his own work, which is not always the case for some other authors I've listened to in the past. This helped a lot to get me over the slow start of the book. I just wasn't sure I was going to like the limp noodle that Noah seemed to be. Letting his boss walk all over him, not being able to say anything to Cole after he saved him from the falling frames, and so on. I just needed him to have SOME sort of backbone. It took a while for him to really come around, but once he started to show it, I warmed up to him.
I enjoyed Cole from the start and wondered why he had such strong feelings for Noah even after they had stopped being friends from childhood. That question gets answered later on in the book in a very sweet and loving way. Swoon!
I felt the pageant plot was weird. It just didn't fit and while I understand that Mayor Nadine gets what she wants, it just felt contrived and didn't fit the story. There could have been better ways putting roadblocks in the story. It could have been saved for future books. It's funny, but it just didn't work for me.
Also, I never fully understood the rift between the mothers. It wasn't fully fleshed out and made no sense. Why exactly were they mad at each other? Someone got hurt? They blamed each other? I don't understand it completely. In any case, I think that could have been a better subplot and could have been the trope for the book. That's just me, though.
All in all I still give it four stars because I really did enjoy it for what it was and I love Daryl's writing and story telling. I love Spruce and the people who live there. Looking forward to my next visit!
April 27, 2024
The 8th installment of Spruce Texas Romance Series!!!
If I could have given it more stars, I would in a gay heartbeat!
It's Cole's turn this time around! We met him in book 7 when he was set up by Nadine in a failed lovers triangle. (Book 7 is also my least favorite book). I'm glad he got his moment bc he full heartedly deserved it! Mr. Perfection!
Noah was introduced and immediately came to the assumption that something was different about his personality. He is right on the cusp of severe anxiety/overthinking and on the spectrum of neurodivergent. It is never stated. He treats everything like a mathematical equation and thinks/rambles to get to the solution. He works at the town newpaper and likes to stay behind the scenes and be invincible.
When a life-saving event occurs, these two are thrown together. The love Cole immediately has for Noah is instantaneous. He understands Noah and wants to protect him at all cost to make him feel safe.
Spoilers below!!!
....
....
These two have history!!! The whole back story is equally heartwarming and heartbreaking! Even an early traumatizing incident that gets the ball rolling and continues into a side story.
Talking about side plots, wow!! So many other plots are happening!! It's mainly about the boys, but you can tell DB really thought about all the characters, past, present and future. He gave great updates on our favorites. The current plot was thoroughly excuted and set up (in my opinion) at least 3 more characters future stories!
The spice was just ok. It was some mild under the sweater action.... but for 2 boys lol! Got a nice scene later on as our cherry on top (pun intended).
More is to come and I cannot wait to see what happens next!!!
If I could have given it more stars, I would in a gay heartbeat!
It's Cole's turn this time around! We met him in book 7 when he was set up by Nadine in a failed lovers triangle. (Book 7 is also my least favorite book). I'm glad he got his moment bc he full heartedly deserved it! Mr. Perfection!
Noah was introduced and immediately came to the assumption that something was different about his personality. He is right on the cusp of severe anxiety/overthinking and on the spectrum of neurodivergent. It is never stated. He treats everything like a mathematical equation and thinks/rambles to get to the solution. He works at the town newpaper and likes to stay behind the scenes and be invincible.
When a life-saving event occurs, these two are thrown together. The love Cole immediately has for Noah is instantaneous. He understands Noah and wants to protect him at all cost to make him feel safe.
Spoilers below!!!
....
....
These two have history!!! The whole back story is equally heartwarming and heartbreaking! Even an early traumatizing incident that gets the ball rolling and continues into a side story.
Talking about side plots, wow!! So many other plots are happening!! It's mainly about the boys, but you can tell DB really thought about all the characters, past, present and future. He gave great updates on our favorites. The current plot was thoroughly excuted and set up (in my opinion) at least 3 more characters future stories!
The spice was just ok. It was some mild under the sweater action.... but for 2 boys lol! Got a nice scene later on as our cherry on top (pun intended).
More is to come and I cannot wait to see what happens next!!!
April 27, 2024
Opposites do attract!
Author/composer Daryl Banner graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. His writing includes new adult romance, M/M romance, post-apocalyptic fantasy, and dystopian. According to his brief biography he is ‘most inspired by the smart and unlikely hero, but urges you (the reader) not to fall in love with them; they may deceive you with their innocence.’
This is the eighth novel in Daryl’s always excellent Spruce Texas Romance series, and the principle characters are Cole and Noah, and we catch a glimpse if Cole in the Prologue: ‘I would never have predicted such a beast lived inside him. Did I unleash this? Or did the beast always exist? The once sweet and innocent Noah has taken the lead with no coaxing or pushing at all…The same Noah who could barely squeak a syllable out around me without blushing…’ Daryl’s skillful writing creates images with a few words, and then this continuation of his survey of the populace of Spruce, Texas blossoms fully as a romance within the atmosphere of a hot bachelor pageant soars.
Said before, and say again - Daryl Banner just gets better and better with his gift for writing. Here is fine Southern atmosphere and a terrific romance. Read this one twice for all the character details – and become a frequent Banner flyer!
Author/composer Daryl Banner graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. His writing includes new adult romance, M/M romance, post-apocalyptic fantasy, and dystopian. According to his brief biography he is ‘most inspired by the smart and unlikely hero, but urges you (the reader) not to fall in love with them; they may deceive you with their innocence.’
This is the eighth novel in Daryl’s always excellent Spruce Texas Romance series, and the principle characters are Cole and Noah, and we catch a glimpse if Cole in the Prologue: ‘I would never have predicted such a beast lived inside him. Did I unleash this? Or did the beast always exist? The once sweet and innocent Noah has taken the lead with no coaxing or pushing at all…The same Noah who could barely squeak a syllable out around me without blushing…’ Daryl’s skillful writing creates images with a few words, and then this continuation of his survey of the populace of Spruce, Texas blossoms fully as a romance within the atmosphere of a hot bachelor pageant soars.
Said before, and say again - Daryl Banner just gets better and better with his gift for writing. Here is fine Southern atmosphere and a terrific romance. Read this one twice for all the character details – and become a frequent Banner flyer!
May 29, 2024
I enjoy Daryl Banner as a writer. I feel like with this series he is capturing a small town, queer friendly vibe and providing that blueprint not only for other creators but for people who read it and can see what an LGBTQ friendly small town could look like. For that, these books are fun to read.
Overall, though, I didn't care for the romance in this. I struggle with characters who are too filled with anxiety and have a hard time finding their place in the world. One 0f the characters is like this and it's hard to read. I am sure there are people who can relate and I love that they can do that with this character.
Banner plays with the secret romance and the former friends to lovers tropes well. He knows what he's doing with this genre. The characters care for each other and you want them to succeed, no matter how unlikely the pairing is.
Banner shines with the supporting characters. A lot of former characters make an appearance and with these brief interactions, we get to see into their lives and what's going on. I appreciate that. I would really like it if he did a short story collection to touch base with them. In this book, we're introduced to a couple of new characters that could make good books for them up. Kudos to him for setting that up.
Overall, though, I didn't care for the romance in this. I struggle with characters who are too filled with anxiety and have a hard time finding their place in the world. One 0f the characters is like this and it's hard to read. I am sure there are people who can relate and I love that they can do that with this character.
Banner plays with the secret romance and the former friends to lovers tropes well. He knows what he's doing with this genre. The characters care for each other and you want them to succeed, no matter how unlikely the pairing is.
Banner shines with the supporting characters. A lot of former characters make an appearance and with these brief interactions, we get to see into their lives and what's going on. I appreciate that. I would really like it if he did a short story collection to touch base with them. In this book, we're introduced to a couple of new characters that could make good books for them up. Kudos to him for setting that up.
April 29, 2024
MR PICTURE PERFECT is the eighth installment in the Spruce Texan Romance series. It can be read as a standalone but definitely reads better in the order that the author intended.
Noah and Cole went to school together but weren't really what you'd call friends. When Cole saves Noah from an incident that could have hurt Noah, Cole feels an instant attraction to Noah. Noah is described in every way that points to him being neurodivergent even though it's never mentioned. Most people don't understand Noah and how he thinks but Cole understands everything about him. Cole is considered "Mr. Perfect" from his looks to how he presents himself but something about Noah draws Cole in. All he wants to do is protect him.
I love this world that Daryl Banner created. Every story in this series revolves around two characters but the town always plays a huge part in the story. I love getting to see what's going on with every person in this town and how they are doing. It was an emotional read and I can't wait for what's next!!
I was given a free copy of this book.
Noah and Cole went to school together but weren't really what you'd call friends. When Cole saves Noah from an incident that could have hurt Noah, Cole feels an instant attraction to Noah. Noah is described in every way that points to him being neurodivergent even though it's never mentioned. Most people don't understand Noah and how he thinks but Cole understands everything about him. Cole is considered "Mr. Perfect" from his looks to how he presents himself but something about Noah draws Cole in. All he wants to do is protect him.
I love this world that Daryl Banner created. Every story in this series revolves around two characters but the town always plays a huge part in the story. I love getting to see what's going on with every person in this town and how they are doing. It was an emotional read and I can't wait for what's next!!
I was given a free copy of this book.
April 22, 2024
I sit here reading this book and tearing up a little, because it seriously embodies the goals of my own relationship. I love how well Daryl Banner can promote the importance of good communication in a relationship and how much healthier relationships can be when you just say the stuff out loud. Cole and Noah's journey is a terrific representation of the beautiful people of Spruce. Also, there's a little mystery in this (no spoilers) that really kept me on the edge of my seat. I love a good mystery.
I highly recommend this latest book in a series that has kept me coming back for more. If you love romance and idealism, this is definitely the series for you. I have enjoyed every single book because they keep revisiting this ideal town, Spruce. Each book is a new set of characters, but we are always getting updates and appearances from Spruce residents featured in previous books. I already can't wait for the next book.
I highly recommend this latest book in a series that has kept me coming back for more. If you love romance and idealism, this is definitely the series for you. I have enjoyed every single book because they keep revisiting this ideal town, Spruce. Each book is a new set of characters, but we are always getting updates and appearances from Spruce residents featured in previous books. I already can't wait for the next book.
April 25, 2024
Cole's turn
This is a sweet romance between two nice guys, with a whole town who wants them happy - and may be trying to set Cole up, not necessarily with Noah. Noah seems like he might be mildly autistic. He has trouble with loud, crowded areas and understanding other people. Cole, meanwhile, is a sociable guy who makes acquaintances easily, but has trouble opening up about his problems. Being "perfect" is his facade.
Anthony is Cole's foil. He is imperfect in every way. Bad manners, bad language, bad hygiene, bad attitude and set up to be in the same bachelor auction. It says something about Spruce, TX that they end up friends. I will not be surprised if Anthony gets his own book in the series eventually.
This is a sweet romance between two nice guys, with a whole town who wants them happy - and may be trying to set Cole up, not necessarily with Noah. Noah seems like he might be mildly autistic. He has trouble with loud, crowded areas and understanding other people. Cole, meanwhile, is a sociable guy who makes acquaintances easily, but has trouble opening up about his problems. Being "perfect" is his facade.
Anthony is Cole's foil. He is imperfect in every way. Bad manners, bad language, bad hygiene, bad attitude and set up to be in the same bachelor auction. It says something about Spruce, TX that they end up friends. I will not be surprised if Anthony gets his own book in the series eventually.
April 26, 2024
Vintage Spruce
For us Sprucelings, it's another sweet trip back home.
Cole Harding, the handsome would-be beau left behind in a previous visit, rediscovers his secret crush, Noah Reed, in a meet-cute of near disaster. Noah, extremely internalized, doesn't remember their past, and is confused by Mr. Picture Perfect's pursuit of him. And then there's the bachelor auction Cole is roped into just as his sincere wooing is working its way past Noah's doubts and fears.
There's a lot of Spruce and its residents in this episode of the series--even a gob of town gossip at the end. And throughout is Daryl Banner's sprightly writing and relatable townsfolk.
This book is as comfortable as a cool pond on a hot Texas day. Cole isn't the only thing that's picture perfect here.
For us Sprucelings, it's another sweet trip back home.
Cole Harding, the handsome would-be beau left behind in a previous visit, rediscovers his secret crush, Noah Reed, in a meet-cute of near disaster. Noah, extremely internalized, doesn't remember their past, and is confused by Mr. Picture Perfect's pursuit of him. And then there's the bachelor auction Cole is roped into just as his sincere wooing is working its way past Noah's doubts and fears.
There's a lot of Spruce and its residents in this episode of the series--even a gob of town gossip at the end. And throughout is Daryl Banner's sprightly writing and relatable townsfolk.
This book is as comfortable as a cool pond on a hot Texas day. Cole isn't the only thing that's picture perfect here.
July 3, 2024
This was okay. I liked both MCs well enough, though Noah is definitely neurodivergent (and portrayed realistically, I think). My big issue here is that there's no real tension. Noah falls for Cole; Cole falls for Noah (and apparently has crushed on him for years -- not really sure why he never did anything about it before now, though). Cole is placed in a bachelor auction thing (which was a little nebulous -- I didn't quite understand the point/purpose of it), but even that doesn't bring real tension.
I guess I'm growing a little tired of books where the characters have no real obstacles to overcome. I mean, it *looked* like they would here, but the challenges just kind of dissipated before they caused any real work or growth. So this was nice but nothing outstanding.
I guess I'm growing a little tired of books where the characters have no real obstacles to overcome. I mean, it *looked* like they would here, but the challenges just kind of dissipated before they caused any real work or growth. So this was nice but nothing outstanding.
July 6, 2024
This well-written end of series book will moisten your eyes. It's a wonderful story with the quirks of the lovable Spruce Texas folks we've come to appreciate in the 8 books. I wish there were more!
The treatise is that two guys who played together as young children get their happy-ever-after. But the real joy of this book is how Daryl Banner weaves their past into their future. This is a richly developed universe where the characters act in predictable and sometimes surprising manners.
There are holes in their story of those childhood visits that get filled wonderfully as the novel progresses and our appreciation of their connected lives grows stronger.
I hope there's a 9th, 10th and 11th book that will follow, but I'm off to the read Daryl Banner's beach series now.
The treatise is that two guys who played together as young children get their happy-ever-after. But the real joy of this book is how Daryl Banner weaves their past into their future. This is a richly developed universe where the characters act in predictable and sometimes surprising manners.
There are holes in their story of those childhood visits that get filled wonderfully as the novel progresses and our appreciation of their connected lives grows stronger.
I hope there's a 9th, 10th and 11th book that will follow, but I'm off to the read Daryl Banner's beach series now.
July 13, 2024
Old friends get a second chance ! Noah and Cole.
Noah, writer/photographer at the newspaper, has messy hair and glasses, but he's a timid fellow in crowds.
Cole, works at a Gym, and is confident and handsome.
The small town is eager to have something exciting to happen, they make-up a festival where three men will compete for a date while they are bid on. The festival even includes a bathing suit judging and a talent contest !
There is banter galore, humor, busybodies and anticipation. Some folks have secrets and Noah and Cole are dating on the sly.
We get tons of angst from insecure Noah, and just as much strength from Cole, who has no doubts about how he feels about Noah.
I've read every tale in this series.
ENJOY !
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Noah, writer/photographer at the newspaper, has messy hair and glasses, but he's a timid fellow in crowds.
Cole, works at a Gym, and is confident and handsome.
The small town is eager to have something exciting to happen, they make-up a festival where three men will compete for a date while they are bid on. The festival even includes a bathing suit judging and a talent contest !
There is banter galore, humor, busybodies and anticipation. Some folks have secrets and Noah and Cole are dating on the sly.
We get tons of angst from insecure Noah, and just as much strength from Cole, who has no doubts about how he feels about Noah.
I've read every tale in this series.
ENJOY !
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July 15, 2024
Spruce Texas !!
I absolutely adored this book ! I'm a big fan of Daryl Banner's creative and unique style of writing! Mr Picture Perfect is heartfelt with story driven , well developed characters (several from previous books ) and a very rich and detailed , often funny storyline.
He has created a dynamic, tangible world in Spruce, Texas, that's relative and feels real and life-like that's fun and entertaining! World building at its best !
Can be read as a stand-alone, but it is much better if read in order!
What to expect:
FRIENDS TO LOVERS
SMALL TOWN
BANTER/ROMCOM
HEARTFELT
WORLD BUILDING
I highly recommend the audiobook for maximum enjoyment!
Shout out to Mr Banner for a NOTE WORTHY PERFORMANCE in narration! 👏
I absolutely adored this book ! I'm a big fan of Daryl Banner's creative and unique style of writing! Mr Picture Perfect is heartfelt with story driven , well developed characters (several from previous books ) and a very rich and detailed , often funny storyline.
He has created a dynamic, tangible world in Spruce, Texas, that's relative and feels real and life-like that's fun and entertaining! World building at its best !
Can be read as a stand-alone, but it is much better if read in order!
What to expect:
FRIENDS TO LOVERS
SMALL TOWN
BANTER/ROMCOM
HEARTFELT
WORLD BUILDING
I highly recommend the audiobook for maximum enjoyment!
Shout out to Mr Banner for a NOTE WORTHY PERFORMANCE in narration! 👏
May 4, 2024
Daryl Banner pens a beautifully written story, Spruce is such a great place to fall in love. Noah and Cole are the same age and attended the same high school. They weren't friends then but one had noticed the other and pined for him.
A chance encounter and an opportunity to explore.
"You're like a happy ending no one realized they needed today."
"His innocence literally blooms from his sweet, tiny eyes. Even his lips look innocent somehow. Slightly parted. Their plush, heart shaped."
"The literal gems that artists mine for in their day-to-day lives."
Spruce is a memorable place, take a chance and experience Noah and Cole's story.
A chance encounter and an opportunity to explore.
"You're like a happy ending no one realized they needed today."
"His innocence literally blooms from his sweet, tiny eyes. Even his lips look innocent somehow. Slightly parted. Their plush, heart shaped."
"The literal gems that artists mine for in their day-to-day lives."
Spruce is a memorable place, take a chance and experience Noah and Cole's story.
December 9, 2024
GOSH. DANGIT. This one roped me right back in. This may be my favorite book Daryl's written thus far, and it couldn't have come at a better time. I've been waffling on some other books in the Spruce series, but I was holding out hope for Cole.
Faith well placed.
This story had an irresistible premise, excellent pacing, and the exact kind of ending I love. Cole and Noah's romance was incredibly tender, and I love how they inspired change in each other. Honestly, it was so thoroughly enjoyable that this book will likely join my rotating shelf of re-reads.
No notes, for good reasons. I don't feel like picking apart something I liked this much.
Faith well placed.
This story had an irresistible premise, excellent pacing, and the exact kind of ending I love. Cole and Noah's romance was incredibly tender, and I love how they inspired change in each other. Honestly, it was so thoroughly enjoyable that this book will likely join my rotating shelf of re-reads.
No notes, for good reasons. I don't feel like picking apart something I liked this much.
April 2, 2024
Sweet and sassy and at times very funny newest return to Spruce Texas! I absolutely loved getting to know Cole and Noah and their families (no matter how strange and dysfunctional they could be) and yet there was a lot of love and heart inside this book as well. Many favorites from past books make appearances as well as some new faces but it is possible to enjoy this book on its own as well.
Get ready for a fun time in small town Spruce as two adorable and lovely men become more than friends after all these years.
***** 5 ***** "from boys to men the love just grows" stars
Get ready for a fun time in small town Spruce as two adorable and lovely men become more than friends after all these years.
***** 5 ***** "from boys to men the love just grows" stars
April 26, 2024
I loved this story! Noah and Cole are amazing characters. I loved getting to know them, seeing the layers people away as we learn more about them as the story goes on. I felt so many emotions while reading this! So many great quotes and funny lines can also be found in this story!
We get to see characters from the other books in this series as well but this can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading them all because they are all so good.
Thank you for another amazing read!!!
We get to see characters from the other books in this series as well but this can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading them all because they are all so good.
Thank you for another amazing read!!!
April 26, 2024
This return to Spruce, TX was just what I needed. Not only did I get to enjoy the love story of Cole and Noah, the quirky side characters made this story something special. Just when the side characters had me frustrated and annoyed, they did a 180 and brought in some perspective and added real depth to this story. Cole and Noah's story was so sweet, and while they sometimes seemed a little too immature for their age, other times, they were beyond their years in maturity. Also, that epilogue was perfection with the check-ins/cameos from many of the couples of the Spruce series.
April 30, 2024
Oh my goodness! This piece was just wonderful. The slow burn had me sitting at the edge of my seat and wanting to know what happens next especially when the whole Meteor and the gulf talk was going on, IYKYK 😜. I love the sub character introduction, andddd Nadine! That woman still remains my favourite FC😁. And I can't wait for my next visit to our small town of spruce. Daryl as always does wonderful job with his characters. And no matter what, there's always the anticipation of HEA. This was a fantastic read❤️
April 24, 2024
***Swoon!!***
I need to give this book more than five stars. There should be an option for that, just saying.
Daryl has quite the gift of story telling. I was so sucked into this book and it wouldn't let me go. No matter what I did.
Noah, oh, Noah, I just wanted to hug this feller so many dang times and then shake the crap of him. Cole, what a cutie from the get go. These two were just perfect for each other.
I binged this book and so will you. Trust me!
I need to give this book more than five stars. There should be an option for that, just saying.
Daryl has quite the gift of story telling. I was so sucked into this book and it wouldn't let me go. No matter what I did.
Noah, oh, Noah, I just wanted to hug this feller so many dang times and then shake the crap of him. Cole, what a cutie from the get go. These two were just perfect for each other.
I binged this book and so will you. Trust me!
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