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Big Love from Galway #3
Hard to Get
Tender, sexy, Southern small town romance that’s for everyone who’s ever had trouble trusting in love—or trusting in themselves.
Single and determined to stay that way, Andi Salazar treasures her independence, her charming small town and the dedication to hard work she inherited from her beloved Gram. To blow off steam, she occasionally takes the stage as a voluptuous bombshell singer who can rev you up even as she breaks your heart with a song.
Big, blond math teacher Kevin Mahoney is fresh off a bad breakup when he moves to Galway, NC. The school year’s about to start, and he’s determined to find the real Kev, not the “vanilla” guy his ex-fiancée didn’t want to marry. When he sees Andi onstage and then collides with her in the hallway, he damn near bursts into flame, and their hot, sweet hookup leaves him wanting more.
The man is entirely too attractive though—too endearing—so Andi breaks it off with very firm “no" to a second date. But when their work brings them together again, Andi and Kevin slowly embark on a friendship instead. Andi’s beginning to trust a man for the first time in maybe ever. Kevin’s beginning to enjoy having opinions of his own– and squabbling about them with his new friend. Silently they both yearn for more, even though they realize friendship is safer. But then an unexpected pregnancy turns their lives upside down in the best way possible.
Single and determined to stay that way, Andi Salazar treasures her independence, her charming small town and the dedication to hard work she inherited from her beloved Gram. To blow off steam, she occasionally takes the stage as a voluptuous bombshell singer who can rev you up even as she breaks your heart with a song.
Big, blond math teacher Kevin Mahoney is fresh off a bad breakup when he moves to Galway, NC. The school year’s about to start, and he’s determined to find the real Kev, not the “vanilla” guy his ex-fiancée didn’t want to marry. When he sees Andi onstage and then collides with her in the hallway, he damn near bursts into flame, and their hot, sweet hookup leaves him wanting more.
The man is entirely too attractive though—too endearing—so Andi breaks it off with very firm “no" to a second date. But when their work brings them together again, Andi and Kevin slowly embark on a friendship instead. Andi’s beginning to trust a man for the first time in maybe ever. Kevin’s beginning to enjoy having opinions of his own– and squabbling about them with his new friend. Silently they both yearn for more, even though they realize friendship is safer. But then an unexpected pregnancy turns their lives upside down in the best way possible.
336 pages, Paperback
Published March 11, 2025
31 people are currently reading
5226 people want to read
About the author
Laura Moher
3 books201 followersHi! I'm Laura.
I write contemporary romance novels set in the fictional North Carolina mountain town of Galway.
In my stories I want you to get to know the town and the characters well: what brings them together, what holds them apart, what they want and need. I want you to root for them and care about them, even when--like the people we love--they frustrate you. My stories may not be the best thing for you if you're in a don't-care-about-this-other-stuff-let's-cut-straight-to-the-sex-scenes mood. But if you're into yearning and mutual pining, I'm your girl.
If you're looking for stories of relationships that would raise red flags in real life, I am not your author. Repeat: Not your author.
That said, some of my characters have not had easy lives, so please check my website for warnings if you have triggers.
And then if you like stories of people of all sizes going about their daily lives with humor and curiosity and love, and you want to see them get their HEAs, please check out my Galway books!
I write contemporary romance novels set in the fictional North Carolina mountain town of Galway.
In my stories I want you to get to know the town and the characters well: what brings them together, what holds them apart, what they want and need. I want you to root for them and care about them, even when--like the people we love--they frustrate you. My stories may not be the best thing for you if you're in a don't-care-about-this-other-stuff-let's-cut-straight-to-the-sex-scenes mood. But if you're into yearning and mutual pining, I'm your girl.
If you're looking for stories of relationships that would raise red flags in real life, I am not your author. Repeat: Not your author.
That said, some of my characters have not had easy lives, so please check my website for warnings if you have triggers.
And then if you like stories of people of all sizes going about their daily lives with humor and curiosity and love, and you want to see them get their HEAs, please check out my Galway books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
April 20, 2025
This was SO GOOD!!! Laura Moher writes a hero and heroine who feel equally fleshed out as people and going on their own journeys, which is hard to do. It's a sweet and emotional slow-burn romance that's one-night-stand to friends to lovers. And it manages to pull off a trope I don't usually like in a way that worked for me . One of the best romances I've read this year!
Kevin is new to town, a big blonde high school math teacher who is a total cinnamon roll, but also has a hard time enforcing boundaries and stating what he does and doesn't like.
Andie works hard at a non-profit supporting victims of domestic violence and educating the community on risk factors. She doesn't really trust men because of her family history, and she is usually buttoned up. But every once in awhile she lets her hair down as alter-ego Andrea singing with a band she's friends with.
It's one of those nights that she meets Kevin and rocks his world, but she was only looking for one night and he was hoping for something deeper. Eventually they become friends and he respects the boundary she set. But something is about to upend their world, and they will both have to confront their demons.
I loved everything about this. The romance is beautiful, I loved both characters, and it does important work talking about domestic abuse and red flags. The audio narration is great too! It's a dual narration which really works. I received an audio review copy via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
Kevin is new to town, a big blonde high school math teacher who is a total cinnamon roll, but also has a hard time enforcing boundaries and stating what he does and doesn't like.
Andie works hard at a non-profit supporting victims of domestic violence and educating the community on risk factors. She doesn't really trust men because of her family history, and she is usually buttoned up. But every once in awhile she lets her hair down as alter-ego Andrea singing with a band she's friends with.
It's one of those nights that she meets Kevin and rocks his world, but she was only looking for one night and he was hoping for something deeper. Eventually they become friends and he respects the boundary she set. But something is about to upend their world, and they will both have to confront their demons.
I loved everything about this. The romance is beautiful, I loved both characters, and it does important work talking about domestic abuse and red flags. The audio narration is great too! It's a dual narration which really works. I received an audio review copy via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
March 11, 2025
Not just hard to get, she made him work ridiculously hard. Drama, trauma, and fear ran this story. He is a sweetheart.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A person goes through a myriad of emotions and responses to their circumstances and surroundings as they are growing up and dealing with life.
The writer of a story has carte blanche in how they want their characters depicted. I have to say I had some mixed feelings about the main female character and how the author chose to show up for her.
Family influence is a lot in any character or real life development. This female main character (FMC) had a lot of powerful influence carrying over into her. There are definitely triggers in the story for women who have experienced domestic violence, abuse, or more, and the female lead carries a lot of barriers around her heart due to circumstances.
I understand it from the author’s point of view, but the reality is the FMC character wasn’t just playing “hard to get”. It was practically impossible to break her barriers and I’m not sure if any real person that would be interested in her would go through what she put this guy through. She made him work ridiculously hard. Drama, trauma, and fear ran this story.
I loved him. He was so sweet and kind and she shut him down over and over. Thankfully, from about the midway part, she started letting him in and he became a big support for her.
For me, the award goes to him. He’s the type of male character that we want in our stories. I wish the author would’ve been kinder with the female lead so that she would have trusted herself to believe in him much earlier in the story. For me, that would’ve made it a more enjoyable read.
The plot was great. It had some surprises along the way, but I just wanted more of the 1-1 romance, the letting go, and being yourself. For me, that was a big deal.
Hard to Get is the first book I have read by this author. I would read her again as the plot was enjoyable.
****
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/hard-to-get-...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A person goes through a myriad of emotions and responses to their circumstances and surroundings as they are growing up and dealing with life.
The writer of a story has carte blanche in how they want their characters depicted. I have to say I had some mixed feelings about the main female character and how the author chose to show up for her.
Family influence is a lot in any character or real life development. This female main character (FMC) had a lot of powerful influence carrying over into her. There are definitely triggers in the story for women who have experienced domestic violence, abuse, or more, and the female lead carries a lot of barriers around her heart due to circumstances.
I understand it from the author’s point of view, but the reality is the FMC character wasn’t just playing “hard to get”. It was practically impossible to break her barriers and I’m not sure if any real person that would be interested in her would go through what she put this guy through. She made him work ridiculously hard. Drama, trauma, and fear ran this story.
I loved him. He was so sweet and kind and she shut him down over and over. Thankfully, from about the midway part, she started letting him in and he became a big support for her.
For me, the award goes to him. He’s the type of male character that we want in our stories. I wish the author would’ve been kinder with the female lead so that she would have trusted herself to believe in him much earlier in the story. For me, that would’ve made it a more enjoyable read.
The plot was great. It had some surprises along the way, but I just wanted more of the 1-1 romance, the letting go, and being yourself. For me, that was a big deal.
Hard to Get is the first book I have read by this author. I would read her again as the plot was enjoyable.
****
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/hard-to-get-...
April 12, 2025
Hard to Get by Laura Moher
Big Love from Galway series #3. Contemporary diverse romance. Curvy female.
Math teacher Kevin Mahoney moves to Galway, NC to start over, even though he’s leaving his parents, siblings and their families behind. Kevin is determined to make this new home a place he wants to be, and forget about his ex his lack of exciting life. He stops at the local bar for dinner and is entranced by the voluptuous bombshell singer on the stage. He decides to talk to her and their exchange is sizzling. They spend the night together and Kevin is smitten. He can’t wait to see her again.
Andi Salazar has been warned over and over about the bad choices the women in her family make with men. She has seen and experienced the heartbreak and swears she’s going to treasure her independence and stick to work to keep her busy and happy. She didn’t exchange numbers with Kevin and didn’t even tell him her real name. But it’s a small town and he wants a second chance.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook version which is narrated by Michelle Price and Paul Bellantoni. Both do a fantastic job with their performance enabling me to “see” the character and all their reactions. I could clearly hear Kevin’s puzzlement, longing and lust. Each of the narrators did their chapter POV and had voices for both characters that were distinctive.
I listened to the story at my usual speed of 1.5 to better match reading and comfortable conversation speed.
I loved the inclusion of the football team in the training against bullying and domestic violence. The story also included some language to turn a phrase around on the subject that was educational.
Sexy, sentimental, and a swooney big math teacher. A dishy and dreamy romance.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Dreamscape Media.
Big Love from Galway series #3. Contemporary diverse romance. Curvy female.
Math teacher Kevin Mahoney moves to Galway, NC to start over, even though he’s leaving his parents, siblings and their families behind. Kevin is determined to make this new home a place he wants to be, and forget about his ex his lack of exciting life. He stops at the local bar for dinner and is entranced by the voluptuous bombshell singer on the stage. He decides to talk to her and their exchange is sizzling. They spend the night together and Kevin is smitten. He can’t wait to see her again.
Andi Salazar has been warned over and over about the bad choices the women in her family make with men. She has seen and experienced the heartbreak and swears she’s going to treasure her independence and stick to work to keep her busy and happy. She didn’t exchange numbers with Kevin and didn’t even tell him her real name. But it’s a small town and he wants a second chance.
🎧 I listened to an audiobook version which is narrated by Michelle Price and Paul Bellantoni. Both do a fantastic job with their performance enabling me to “see” the character and all their reactions. I could clearly hear Kevin’s puzzlement, longing and lust. Each of the narrators did their chapter POV and had voices for both characters that were distinctive.
I listened to the story at my usual speed of 1.5 to better match reading and comfortable conversation speed.
I loved the inclusion of the football team in the training against bullying and domestic violence. The story also included some language to turn a phrase around on the subject that was educational.
Sexy, sentimental, and a swooney big math teacher. A dishy and dreamy romance.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Dreamscape Media.
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October 15, 2024Hi! It's Laura Moher. Just wanted to provide a content warning for this story. The CW does contain spoilers; if you don't want to read those you can contact me via social media to ask me questions about whether it deals with your specific triggers.
This is the hottest book in the Galway series and it is NOT slow burn.
Happy reading!
This is the hottest book in the Galway series and it is NOT slow burn.
Happy reading!
February 3, 2025
3.25⭐️ this book was a nice easy curvy romance, and i usually am pretty picky about it but i think it was done decently well here! and i liked just how close you kinda feel to the characters, they are very likable and definitely made this book super quick.
now, do i think it necessarily wowed me? not so much, but i also am not the biggest fan of accidental pregnancy, so i dont think its more a matter of not liking the book, but just not feeling as invested in the storyline as i would hope. i definitely had a good time nonetheless, and i just love a curvy woman getting loved up on as we deserve!
thank you so much sourcebooks casablanca for the arc in exchange for my honest review!!
now, do i think it necessarily wowed me? not so much, but i also am not the biggest fan of accidental pregnancy, so i dont think its more a matter of not liking the book, but just not feeling as invested in the storyline as i would hope. i definitely had a good time nonetheless, and i just love a curvy woman getting loved up on as we deserve!
thank you so much sourcebooks casablanca for the arc in exchange for my honest review!!
May 21, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
Out of the whole series this is my favorite one!
I listened to this in one sitting. Although I guessed one thing that happened pretty quick, it still was really good and almost a 5⭐️
Out of the whole series this is my favorite one!
I listened to this in one sitting. Although I guessed one thing that happened pretty quick, it still was really good and almost a 5⭐️
May 3, 2025
Love the heart, spice, and real-life issues.
Laura Moher, gifted writer and storyteller, has done it again with Hard to Get, book 3 in her Big Love from Galway series. I love Andi, a strong, independent, spicy FMC who carries pain from her past. And Kevin, new math teacher in town whose ex called him “vanilla”…love him! Beautiful writing, heart-tugging, real-life plot points, sublime characterization, and spice and fun. A must read. Can’t wait for Laura Moher’s next book!
Laura Moher, gifted writer and storyteller, has done it again with Hard to Get, book 3 in her Big Love from Galway series. I love Andi, a strong, independent, spicy FMC who carries pain from her past. And Kevin, new math teacher in town whose ex called him “vanilla”…love him! Beautiful writing, heart-tugging, real-life plot points, sublime characterization, and spice and fun. A must read. Can’t wait for Laura Moher’s next book!
May 5, 2025
I received a copy of hard to get on NetGalley for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book, but struggled to get through the first half of the book quite a bit. I feel like a lot of the issues that kind of happened in this book could’ve been resolved by having a conversation with each other. They had conversation conversations, but it was like they were kind of dancing around the issue a little bit and that frustrated me.
I also feel that at the beginning of the book their relationship kind of felt rushed and then it was like wait pause so it just didn’t feel like they really liked each other until maybe the 80% mark again.
I enjoyed this book, but struggled to get through the first half of the book quite a bit. I feel like a lot of the issues that kind of happened in this book could’ve been resolved by having a conversation with each other. They had conversation conversations, but it was like they were kind of dancing around the issue a little bit and that frustrated me.
I also feel that at the beginning of the book their relationship kind of felt rushed and then it was like wait pause so it just didn’t feel like they really liked each other until maybe the 80% mark again.
April 14, 2025
This was my first Laura Moher book and I really enjoyed it! Hard to Get is technically book 3 in the Big Love from Galway series, but you can still read it as a stand alone. I’m excited to go back and read the stories about Andi’s friends though!
This book includes representation of some really important topics, and I loved the size inclusivity and body positivity in the book. Andi works at a women’s shelter and domestic abuse is a big theme of the book. I love how Kevin, the MMC, took everything he learned from her to heart.
Andi and Kevin’s story was so fun to read, and this is so random but I love that they were just normal, real people navigating life.
Big thanks to Dreamscape Media & Netgalley for providing the audiobook ARC!
This book includes representation of some really important topics, and I loved the size inclusivity and body positivity in the book. Andi works at a women’s shelter and domestic abuse is a big theme of the book. I love how Kevin, the MMC, took everything he learned from her to heart.
Andi and Kevin’s story was so fun to read, and this is so random but I love that they were just normal, real people navigating life.
Big thanks to Dreamscape Media & Netgalley for providing the audiobook ARC!
April 14, 2025
This was an overall very cute and engaging read. I liked both main characters and all the depth that was attributed to them individually. However, at first I was really into what they had going as a couple. The chemistry was off the charts, Kevin was very gentle and honestly just adorably nervous, Andi was a complete badass that knew exactly what she wants. The dynamics were working so well in their favor and I was excited to see what they’ll give.
Unfortunately for me, when their relationship started getting serious is where they lost me, because I personally feel like all the levity and fresh air I got from their initial interactions was overpowered but the underlying plot points. At this point, instead of focusing on actual relationship development in the present— their focus was heavily planted in the past and it’s reflection on their relationship now. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing but I would’ve liked if the past and present were more balanced all round.
The audiobook on its own was really great. The narrators voices were indeed very phenomenal especially the voice of the FMC. There was something about it that I particularly enjoyed which made me so excited to be in her POV for the sake of just listening to the narrator do their thing. I do which the tones used for expressing emotions like fear, frustration and anger throughout the story was clearer but it doesn’t take away from the general enjoyment of the story.
Thank you Dreamscape audio and NetGalley for the ALC.
Unfortunately for me, when their relationship started getting serious is where they lost me, because I personally feel like all the levity and fresh air I got from their initial interactions was overpowered but the underlying plot points. At this point, instead of focusing on actual relationship development in the present— their focus was heavily planted in the past and it’s reflection on their relationship now. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing but I would’ve liked if the past and present were more balanced all round.
The audiobook on its own was really great. The narrators voices were indeed very phenomenal especially the voice of the FMC. There was something about it that I particularly enjoyed which made me so excited to be in her POV for the sake of just listening to the narrator do their thing. I do which the tones used for expressing emotions like fear, frustration and anger throughout the story was clearer but it doesn’t take away from the general enjoyment of the story.
Thank you Dreamscape audio and NetGalley for the ALC.
January 24, 2025
Andi's work at the local women's shelter keeps her fulfilled, but with her close friends coupled up sometimes the need to let loose is overwhelming. Kevin, unceremoniously dumped by his fiancée for being too boring, has moved halfway across the country to start a new life but feels lonely away from his family. This book is the third in a series, I've actually read the first book and really enjoyed it but I haven't read the second book. The story jumps right in without a lot of explanation or exposition, but it wasn't hard to follow and I think this would work okay as a standalone. Characters from previous books play a heavy role but a lot is explained and I didn't feel lost. There are dual 1st-person POVs, which I always appreciate. Pay attention to content warnings, there are definitely deeper themes in this story. Nice messaging about venturing out of your comfort zone but also learning to trust yourself and accept who you are. Flawed but very likeable main characters and I enjoyed Andi and Kevin, both apart and together. The body positivity is very present in this book, which is always welcome. This is an open-door romance.
I have some thoughts about a few iffy plot points that detracted from my overall enjoyment, but they're spoilers and are clearly marked at the end of this review. I did struggle with how to rate this one. Based on my feelings about the plot points I initially thought maybe I wasn't the right audience for this book, which I always try not to let impact a rating. But as the story went on I realized that it was actually some of the author's choices that were affecting my overall enjoyment. I really liked Andi and Kevin, but I just couldn't get past some of the plot devices used. I will read this author again, though: her characterizations are very good and she makes you care about the characters, and her writing style is engaging. I ultimately gave this book 3 stars but it's really closer to 3.5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing an eARC of this book, this has been my objective review.
***SPOILERS***
As noted above, I had some issues with some plot points. I know I should be suspending disbelief, but I find it hard to believe that this very smart women who works at a domestic violence shelter and is otherwise ultra-cautious is willing to get in some guy's car and go to his apartment with him, a guy she *just* met. Forget about the risk of having sex with this unknown person, my bigger issue is that she freely allowed herself to be transported to a second location, in his car. She knows all the ways this could end badly, right? Then she flip-flops for the bulk of the rest of the book, agonizing whether or not to trust him. And unfortunately, that event happening at the beginning of the book set a tone of mild frustration for me for the rest of the book. Also, the unexpected pregnancy felt like an unnecessary plot device. They both had enough insecurity to cause barriers to their happiness, as evidenced by the push-pull they just couldn't seem to help. But adding in a surprise baby felt like a cheatsy-doodle hack to get them together, baby as forced proximity I guess. And finally, while I understand why Andi is hesitant about trusting men, I'm not a huge fan of relationship tests and that one felt immature and unkind. Did I miss where anyone ever explained to Kevin what was going on and actually apologized to him?
***END SPOILERS***
I have some thoughts about a few iffy plot points that detracted from my overall enjoyment, but they're spoilers and are clearly marked at the end of this review. I did struggle with how to rate this one. Based on my feelings about the plot points I initially thought maybe I wasn't the right audience for this book, which I always try not to let impact a rating. But as the story went on I realized that it was actually some of the author's choices that were affecting my overall enjoyment. I really liked Andi and Kevin, but I just couldn't get past some of the plot devices used. I will read this author again, though: her characterizations are very good and she makes you care about the characters, and her writing style is engaging. I ultimately gave this book 3 stars but it's really closer to 3.5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing an eARC of this book, this has been my objective review.
***SPOILERS***
As noted above, I had some issues with some plot points. I know I should be suspending disbelief, but I find it hard to believe that this very smart women who works at a domestic violence shelter and is otherwise ultra-cautious is willing to get in some guy's car and go to his apartment with him, a guy she *just* met. Forget about the risk of having sex with this unknown person, my bigger issue is that she freely allowed herself to be transported to a second location, in his car. She knows all the ways this could end badly, right? Then she flip-flops for the bulk of the rest of the book, agonizing whether or not to trust him. And unfortunately, that event happening at the beginning of the book set a tone of mild frustration for me for the rest of the book. Also, the unexpected pregnancy felt like an unnecessary plot device. They both had enough insecurity to cause barriers to their happiness, as evidenced by the push-pull they just couldn't seem to help. But adding in a surprise baby felt like a cheatsy-doodle hack to get them together, baby as forced proximity I guess. And finally, while I understand why Andi is hesitant about trusting men, I'm not a huge fan of relationship tests and that one felt immature and unkind. Did I miss where anyone ever explained to Kevin what was going on and actually apologized to him?
***END SPOILERS***
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2025
2.5-3⭐️
I’m finding this one a little difficult to rate because I don’t feel it quite had the cozy country vibes the description gives and the writing style it was like a merging of 2 different types of writing. It is definitely a personal perspective and preference though as to what you anticipate going in.
I appreciate the characters storyline for Kevin was to get out of his “vanilla” funk he was in however for me this area wasn’t delivered particularly tastefully and just didn’t merge well with the overall cozy country vibe. I think it was the words used just didn’t work for me however it is clear from the description it is going to be a little bit of spice I felt this could have been delivered in a slightly more rom-com way that would have worked much better with the country vibe.
Andi meets Kevin after she has been through a lot and what I did feel was delivered well was the way that DV was written in the context of male understanding and therefore allowing Andi to feel she could trust and open up again.
The narration on this I have to be honest and say it didn’t grip me and pull me in maybe I was put off because I had a barrier up with some of the story so more reflection of me than particularly the narrators. They were clear and well paced throughout so I do believe it was simply this just wasn’t the right book for me.
I will say although this is the 3rd in the series it works absolutely fine as a stand alone I hadn’t read / heard the first 2 and didn’t feel like I couldn’t pick up what was going on so if you like the description then this may be for you!
With thanks to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for this ELC in return for an honest review. 📚🎧
I’m finding this one a little difficult to rate because I don’t feel it quite had the cozy country vibes the description gives and the writing style it was like a merging of 2 different types of writing. It is definitely a personal perspective and preference though as to what you anticipate going in.
I appreciate the characters storyline for Kevin was to get out of his “vanilla” funk he was in however for me this area wasn’t delivered particularly tastefully and just didn’t merge well with the overall cozy country vibe. I think it was the words used just didn’t work for me however it is clear from the description it is going to be a little bit of spice I felt this could have been delivered in a slightly more rom-com way that would have worked much better with the country vibe.
Andi meets Kevin after she has been through a lot and what I did feel was delivered well was the way that DV was written in the context of male understanding and therefore allowing Andi to feel she could trust and open up again.
The narration on this I have to be honest and say it didn’t grip me and pull me in maybe I was put off because I had a barrier up with some of the story so more reflection of me than particularly the narrators. They were clear and well paced throughout so I do believe it was simply this just wasn’t the right book for me.
I will say although this is the 3rd in the series it works absolutely fine as a stand alone I hadn’t read / heard the first 2 and didn’t feel like I couldn’t pick up what was going on so if you like the description then this may be for you!
With thanks to NetGalley & Dreamscape Media for this ELC in return for an honest review. 📚🎧
January 14, 2025
3.7⭐️
Andi no cree en el amor. Desde pequeña, su abuela le enseñó a no confiar en los hombres, y así ha vivido toda su vida. Una noche, conoce a un hombre que le atrae y tienen una noche inolvidable. Por un momento, duda si dejarlo de inmediato, pero escucha la voz de su abuela y decide irse.
Días después, se lleva una sorpresa al encontrarse con el mismo hombre, Kevin, un maestro de matemáticas que se acaba de mudar y quien no duda en dejar claro que está muy interesado en ella. ¿Logrará Kevin atravesar sus muros?
Me desesperó la falta de confianza de Andi hacia Kevin, especialmente porque él siempre le mostró que haría lo que fuera por ella. Sin embargo, luego ella hablaba de su infancia y de lo que veía en el refugio en el que trabajaba, y me sentí mal por no ser empática y por no dejar que ella descubriera su propio camino a su tiempo.
Creo que faltó más sobre Kevin; siento que su historia no recibió la importancia que merecía y se dejó de lado. No entiendo por qué, ya que podría haber sido un recurso valioso, considerando todo lo que pasó.
Quiero un Kevin.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Andi no cree en el amor. Desde pequeña, su abuela le enseñó a no confiar en los hombres, y así ha vivido toda su vida. Una noche, conoce a un hombre que le atrae y tienen una noche inolvidable. Por un momento, duda si dejarlo de inmediato, pero escucha la voz de su abuela y decide irse.
Días después, se lleva una sorpresa al encontrarse con el mismo hombre, Kevin, un maestro de matemáticas que se acaba de mudar y quien no duda en dejar claro que está muy interesado en ella. ¿Logrará Kevin atravesar sus muros?
Me desesperó la falta de confianza de Andi hacia Kevin, especialmente porque él siempre le mostró que haría lo que fuera por ella. Sin embargo, luego ella hablaba de su infancia y de lo que veía en el refugio en el que trabajaba, y me sentí mal por no ser empática y por no dejar que ella descubriera su propio camino a su tiempo.
Creo que faltó más sobre Kevin; siento que su historia no recibió la importancia que merecía y se dejó de lado. No entiendo por qué, ya que podría haber sido un recurso valioso, considerando todo lo que pasó.
Quiero un Kevin.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2025
Accidental pregnancy
One night stand
Friends to lovers
Spicy
Dual narration- Paul Belantoni & Michelle Price
Great southern accent. Male narrator was good but seemed to read the lines in almost a questioning way. Still enjoyable though.
Book 3 in Big love from Galway series. Interconnected standalones.
Andi and Kevin are the MCs in this book.
Andi is a sort of social worker during the day and a sexy singer by night. Kevin is a big man former football player turned coach.
Kevin is newer to town and goes out for drinks with a coworker the first time he sees Andi sing and he is hooked. He can’t take his eyes off her.
Andi thinks her family has a sort of hex on the women in her family that they only attract bad guys. She doesn’t do relationships.
Instant attraction on both sides leads to a one night stand. They don’t know that they will be seeing each other more and after they try to become friendly
This was a cute and steamy listen. I enjoyed the story. The MMC personality was a little off for me. His inner monologue felt younger, insecure… but the storyline was good.
One night stand
Friends to lovers
Spicy
Dual narration- Paul Belantoni & Michelle Price
Great southern accent. Male narrator was good but seemed to read the lines in almost a questioning way. Still enjoyable though.
Book 3 in Big love from Galway series. Interconnected standalones.
Andi and Kevin are the MCs in this book.
Andi is a sort of social worker during the day and a sexy singer by night. Kevin is a big man former football player turned coach.
Kevin is newer to town and goes out for drinks with a coworker the first time he sees Andi sing and he is hooked. He can’t take his eyes off her.
Andi thinks her family has a sort of hex on the women in her family that they only attract bad guys. She doesn’t do relationships.
Instant attraction on both sides leads to a one night stand. They don’t know that they will be seeing each other more and after they try to become friendly
This was a cute and steamy listen. I enjoyed the story. The MMC personality was a little off for me. His inner monologue felt younger, insecure… but the storyline was good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2025
At first, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about this story. Andi struck me as a bit too much—like she was trying incredibly hard to be different from who she really was. Unfortunately, this made her come off as mean and a bit stuffy, rather than the mysterious and likable character I hoped for. Kevin, however, was an instant favorite. He was charming and kind, but sometimes he felt a little too perfect—almost overly infatuated with Andi.
As I delved deeper into the story, I started to understand Andi's complicated feelings about her relationship with Kevin. By the end, she became more relatable and enjoyable, but there was still a lingering disconnect. Despite Kevin being a wonderful support for her, many aspects of the plot felt underexplored, leaving me wanting more. Overall, while the journey had its ups and downs, I found layers in their relationship that made me curious about their story.
As I delved deeper into the story, I started to understand Andi's complicated feelings about her relationship with Kevin. By the end, she became more relatable and enjoyable, but there was still a lingering disconnect. Despite Kevin being a wonderful support for her, many aspects of the plot felt underexplored, leaving me wanting more. Overall, while the journey had its ups and downs, I found layers in their relationship that made me curious about their story.
April 13, 2025
Disclaimer: Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by Laura Moher and I will go back and read the first two books in the series. This book has a lot of heart and emotions.
Andi is an independent woman and purposely single. She moonlights as a singer at the local bar, which is where she meets the new handsome teacher in town, Kevin. Sparks fly that first night and Andi is forced to cope with healing past trauma in order to ultimately be with Kevin.
What you’ll find:
⭐️small town, North Carolina
⭐️FMC with family history of past trauma (TW!)
⭐️Cinnamon roll/golden retriever MMC
⭐️Open door 🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️Surprise Pregnancy (attn: divisive trope!)
⭐️Forced proximity
⭐️Mutual pining
This was my first book by Laura Moher and I will go back and read the first two books in the series. This book has a lot of heart and emotions.
Andi is an independent woman and purposely single. She moonlights as a singer at the local bar, which is where she meets the new handsome teacher in town, Kevin. Sparks fly that first night and Andi is forced to cope with healing past trauma in order to ultimately be with Kevin.
What you’ll find:
⭐️small town, North Carolina
⭐️FMC with family history of past trauma (TW!)
⭐️Cinnamon roll/golden retriever MMC
⭐️Open door 🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️Surprise Pregnancy (attn: divisive trope!)
⭐️Forced proximity
⭐️Mutual pining
March 19, 2025
Thank you so much to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the earc, all opinions are my own.
We start out book 3 in the Big Love from Galway series to Andi (manager of the women’s shelter) and new to town Kevin meeting at an event that Andi is singing at. After a whirlwind encounter in the bar hallway, they end up having a one night stand. Kevin tries to pursue a relationship while Andi just remembers the trauma her previous generations suffered at the hands of men. Once she discovers the condoms failed and she’s pregnant, she has to come to terms with trusting a man. Full of hard topics, and lots of tears, this surprised me and was easily my favorite of the series.
We start out book 3 in the Big Love from Galway series to Andi (manager of the women’s shelter) and new to town Kevin meeting at an event that Andi is singing at. After a whirlwind encounter in the bar hallway, they end up having a one night stand. Kevin tries to pursue a relationship while Andi just remembers the trauma her previous generations suffered at the hands of men. Once she discovers the condoms failed and she’s pregnant, she has to come to terms with trusting a man. Full of hard topics, and lots of tears, this surprised me and was easily my favorite of the series.
April 13, 2025
Andi is a woman with a family history of abuse and violence. She lives every day of her life being cautious and protective of her privacy while championing other women and children going through rough times. When teddybear Kevin comes into her life, she slips up one night and lets him in, but then spends the rest of the book holding him at arms length. Kevin is persistent, but the conversations about her reluctance to get involved got pretty repetitive. Despite that, the characters were well-developed, and their backstories were fleshed out. I loved the town of Galway, too!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC audiobook.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC audiobook.
April 16, 2025
Thank you @NetGalley and @Dreamscapemedia for the audio ARC. I loved this story. The narrators were great. I listened in one day. Andi is in charge of a domestic abuse shelter and has some family tragedy in her life. Kevin left his loving family to lick his wounds from a broken engagement. They find each other one night in a bar and their love story is so beautiful. A must read.
April 22, 2025
I liked the diverse representation in this but struggled with our cinnamon roll MMC. His constant doubting himself grated on my nerves and I wanted to yell “get some balls” lol 😆 overall, I did also like the author bringing awareness to the serious issues presented in this (domestic violence, childhood trauma).
May 24, 2025
***** I received this audiobook free from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
A fun romance read. A bit predictable but it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment. It also has a nice side piece about warning signs of an abusive relationship. I think the author did a nice job of tying that part in.
A fun romance read. A bit predictable but it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment. It also has a nice side piece about warning signs of an abusive relationship. I think the author did a nice job of tying that part in.
dnf
August 2, 2025DNF @ 5% - I really enjoyed the first book in the contemporary romance series which features plus-sized main characters, and I thought the second one was good too. This third book just isn’t working for me. I don’t like the voice of the male narrator of the audiobook, especially how he voices female characters, and the way the male lead describes his initial impression of the female lead was an immediate no for me.
June 6, 2025
CW: talk of DV, abuse, etc
3 1/2 Stars. I enjoyed this one.
3 1/2 Stars. I enjoyed this one.
June 21, 2025
I picked this one up randomly at the library not realizing it was a part of a series. I really enjoyed the storyline and the characters in it
March 13, 2025
Andi Salazar is the director of a women's shelter who occasionally sings for a local band. That is where she meets math teacher Kevin Mahoney. They have a one nighter but they keep meeting up and become friends. Then she finds out there night has consquences.
July 4, 2025
why 🥀🥀🥀
March 16, 2025
Laura Moher’s Hard to Get is a charming and heartfelt addition to the Big Love from Galway series, offering readers a delightful blend of humor, romance, and meaningful themes. Set in the picturesque small town of Galway, North Carolina, the novel follows Andi Salazar, a dedicated worker at a women’s shelter who moonlights as a captivating singer, and Kevin Mahoney, a math teacher seeking to redefine himself after a recent breakup. Their chance encounter leads to a passionate connection, setting the stage for a story that explores self-discovery, trust, and the complexities of modern relationships.
Moher’s narrative is praised for its engaging storytelling and relatable characters. The novel’s exploration of body positivity and self-acceptance adds depth to the romantic plot, resonating with readers who appreciate stories that challenge conventional norms. The chemistry between Andi and Kevin is palpable, and their individual growth throughout the story adds a layer of authenticity to their romance.
The novel also addresses deeper themes such as personal growth and the importance of venturing out of one’s comfort zone. These elements contribute to a rich narrative that balances lighthearted moments with more profound reflections, making it a multifaceted read that appeals to a broad audience.
In summary, Hard to Get is a delightful romantic comedy that combines humor, steam, and meaningful messages. Laura Moher’s skillful storytelling and the relatable journey of her characters make this novel a standout in contemporary romance, offering readers both entertainment and thoughtful insights into love and self-acceptance.
Moher’s narrative is praised for its engaging storytelling and relatable characters. The novel’s exploration of body positivity and self-acceptance adds depth to the romantic plot, resonating with readers who appreciate stories that challenge conventional norms. The chemistry between Andi and Kevin is palpable, and their individual growth throughout the story adds a layer of authenticity to their romance.
The novel also addresses deeper themes such as personal growth and the importance of venturing out of one’s comfort zone. These elements contribute to a rich narrative that balances lighthearted moments with more profound reflections, making it a multifaceted read that appeals to a broad audience.
In summary, Hard to Get is a delightful romantic comedy that combines humor, steam, and meaningful messages. Laura Moher’s skillful storytelling and the relatable journey of her characters make this novel a standout in contemporary romance, offering readers both entertainment and thoughtful insights into love and self-acceptance.
March 11, 2025
4.5 stars This is book three in the Big Love from Galway series, although it can be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed this emotional read, that had me crying and laughing along with the characters.
Laura Moher is so gifted at creating realistic, flawed characters that you cannot help but root for. What was special about Andi and Kevin is that they have non conforming gender stereotypes. She is stoic and independent and he is a people pleaser who wants love. After their one night stand, he wants more, but she’s a one and done kind of woman. I love the switch in dynamics.
Kevin is a big, athletic man with a golden retriever personality. His attention and consideration for Andi is heartwarming, and had me wishing he could pop into existence. When he was doubting himself, I wanted to reach through the pages and hug him.
Andi’s life experience has made her weary of men. Her struggle between her growing feelings for Kevin, and her need for safety are relevant and tugged at my heartstrings.
The found family aspect with the characters from the first two books was my favourite part. How they support and love Andi and embrace Kevin, albeit after they test him out, makes me want to live in Galway and call them all friends.
This book does take on the serious issue of domestic violence. Andi works at a woman’s shelter and has life experience with this all too prevalent problem. I found that the topic was dealt with accuracy and sensitivity, but please check trigger warnings before reading.
It was such a pleasure to experience Andi and Kevin finding each other and growing as individuals and as a couple.
Hard To Get releases on March 11th. Thank you to @netgalley and @sourcebookscasa for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Laura Moher is so gifted at creating realistic, flawed characters that you cannot help but root for. What was special about Andi and Kevin is that they have non conforming gender stereotypes. She is stoic and independent and he is a people pleaser who wants love. After their one night stand, he wants more, but she’s a one and done kind of woman. I love the switch in dynamics.
Kevin is a big, athletic man with a golden retriever personality. His attention and consideration for Andi is heartwarming, and had me wishing he could pop into existence. When he was doubting himself, I wanted to reach through the pages and hug him.
Andi’s life experience has made her weary of men. Her struggle between her growing feelings for Kevin, and her need for safety are relevant and tugged at my heartstrings.
The found family aspect with the characters from the first two books was my favourite part. How they support and love Andi and embrace Kevin, albeit after they test him out, makes me want to live in Galway and call them all friends.
This book does take on the serious issue of domestic violence. Andi works at a woman’s shelter and has life experience with this all too prevalent problem. I found that the topic was dealt with accuracy and sensitivity, but please check trigger warnings before reading.
It was such a pleasure to experience Andi and Kevin finding each other and growing as individuals and as a couple.
Hard To Get releases on March 11th. Thank you to @netgalley and @sourcebookscasa for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 15, 2025
ARC REVIEW:
This was just not for me but I do want to highlight that it does an amazing job of advocating for domestic violence victims and shedding light on how harmful it is for men to take a non-active role in prevention. I felt like the MMC’s challenges were realistic but also from a female point of view … dumb? Maybe that’s also insensitive but I just couldn’t get past my “get over it” mindset.
This was just not for me but I do want to highlight that it does an amazing job of advocating for domestic violence victims and shedding light on how harmful it is for men to take a non-active role in prevention. I felt like the MMC’s challenges were realistic but also from a female point of view … dumb? Maybe that’s also insensitive but I just couldn’t get past my “get over it” mindset.
March 27, 2025
What a snooze fest. There should have been way more Andrea and a lot less Andi. Even Kevin saving Andi from a shooter and getting shot himself was boring. Don't know why I forced myself to even finish this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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