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Stryker Family #1
Sips About to Go Down
The only thing worse than being roommates with my rival? Falling for him.
Returning to my small hometown after I crash and burn in the city is bad enough. Having my lifelong rival, Wes Stryker rub it in my face doesn’t make it easier.
Even worse, I’m hired to help him pull his family’s distillery out of a rough patch. Oh, and I’m forced to be his roommate. And that means dealing with his annoying flirting and one-upping all day, every day.
He’s unbearably cocky, and his dimpled smile charms everyone with a pulse – except for me.
At least until he starts to make me ugly laugh and I see glimpses of his big heart under the side he shows everyone else. Resisting him when he wanders around the house in nothing but sweatpants, undressing me with his eyes? Not possible.
But I’ve sworn off charmers like him and the last man I let into my heart destroyed my confidence and my career. I won't make that mistake again.
Returning to my small hometown after I crash and burn in the city is bad enough. Having my lifelong rival, Wes Stryker rub it in my face doesn’t make it easier.
Even worse, I’m hired to help him pull his family’s distillery out of a rough patch. Oh, and I’m forced to be his roommate. And that means dealing with his annoying flirting and one-upping all day, every day.
He’s unbearably cocky, and his dimpled smile charms everyone with a pulse – except for me.
At least until he starts to make me ugly laugh and I see glimpses of his big heart under the side he shows everyone else. Resisting him when he wanders around the house in nothing but sweatpants, undressing me with his eyes? Not possible.
But I’ve sworn off charmers like him and the last man I let into my heart destroyed my confidence and my career. I won't make that mistake again.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2024
510 people are currently reading
1435 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
July 8, 2024
Thank you Audrey Vaughn for the ARC.
So, i really enjoyed the second half of the book. The first i found it a bit boring with all the talk about mixology.
The spice was spicing and was entertaining.
I didn’t love any of the character but the dog and the cat! they won my heart.
But overall it was a good reading and i had a good time.
So, i really enjoyed the second half of the book. The first i found it a bit boring with all the talk about mixology.
The spice was spicing and was entertaining.
I didn’t love any of the character but the dog and the cat! they won my heart.
But overall it was a good reading and i had a good time.
July 5, 2024
Roses: I really enjoyed the premise of old high school rivals forced to work together and live with each other in the process. The world of alcohol is one I don’t see explored very much except for wineries in books so this take put a unique twist on things. I really enjoyed Wes and all of the side characters you got to meet along the way. Because they were pretty developed characters they each really helped elevate the story with their relationships. The spice in the story was actually done well. It wasn’t overly erotic but gave just enough.
Thorns: Rose and the ending. Starting with Rose. Like all characters and humans alike we are all flawed. But one thing I don’t enjoy in characters is just childlike immaturity. Rose handled quite a few situations in that way and it just rubbed me the wrong way. I was really disappointed that I didn’t like her as much as I thought I was going to but she just didn’t land for me. I think a lot of it came to a head at the end. I needed her to make the big gesture for Wes. She got to receive all of the romance things given to her by him but I didn’t see her do one thing for him. I didn’t like that. At the end that was the perfect place for her to give the big gesture of love, yet she didn’t and Wes again did. The only way I knew she was truly into Wes was more so because of the conversations she had with Jo about him. She never actually told Wes how she felt about him. When he confessed his feelings all she literally told him was that they couldn’t work because she wanted to be away from home and own her own business. Nothing was ever said about her actual feelings for him until the very end of the book. Again, her actions made it hard to like her. The ending 4 chapters felt rushed. I think adding a few more pages to flush out some of the loose ends would have helped make the flow better.
Overall it’s a decent story that I did like and was a fast read. So if you like dislike to lovers, forced proximity romances try this one out!
Thorns: Rose and the ending. Starting with Rose. Like all characters and humans alike we are all flawed. But one thing I don’t enjoy in characters is just childlike immaturity. Rose handled quite a few situations in that way and it just rubbed me the wrong way. I was really disappointed that I didn’t like her as much as I thought I was going to but she just didn’t land for me. I think a lot of it came to a head at the end. I needed her to make the big gesture for Wes. She got to receive all of the romance things given to her by him but I didn’t see her do one thing for him. I didn’t like that. At the end that was the perfect place for her to give the big gesture of love, yet she didn’t and Wes again did. The only way I knew she was truly into Wes was more so because of the conversations she had with Jo about him. She never actually told Wes how she felt about him. When he confessed his feelings all she literally told him was that they couldn’t work because she wanted to be away from home and own her own business. Nothing was ever said about her actual feelings for him until the very end of the book. Again, her actions made it hard to like her. The ending 4 chapters felt rushed. I think adding a few more pages to flush out some of the loose ends would have helped make the flow better.
Overall it’s a decent story that I did like and was a fast read. So if you like dislike to lovers, forced proximity romances try this one out!
July 19, 2024
* ARC * Bartenders
This was a fun book. I don't think I've read any books with bartenders as MCs. But it was good. I don't know too much about drinking, but it was easy to follow along.
These characters were such flirts that I couldn't stop laughing. They were rivals their whole lives, but really, I just think they were so attracted to one another that they covered it up with competition. They riled each other up for the better.
I enjoy reading characters that are relatable. You have Wes, who used to be the town flirt, who is now trying to make a name for himself. Then you have Rose, who returned home after a bad situation in NY, who is trying to get back on track for her career. They are both struggling, but they find a balance with one another.
🌶🌶🌶/5
This was a fun book. I don't think I've read any books with bartenders as MCs. But it was good. I don't know too much about drinking, but it was easy to follow along.
These characters were such flirts that I couldn't stop laughing. They were rivals their whole lives, but really, I just think they were so attracted to one another that they covered it up with competition. They riled each other up for the better.
I enjoy reading characters that are relatable. You have Wes, who used to be the town flirt, who is now trying to make a name for himself. Then you have Rose, who returned home after a bad situation in NY, who is trying to get back on track for her career. They are both struggling, but they find a balance with one another.
🌶🌶🌶/5
July 24, 2024
*** ARC ***
First I want to thank the publisher and author for gifting me this read early! I am so grateful.
—Review—
Right off the bat, the plot didn’t thrill me, the whole forced proximity trope (which is usually my fave) bored me with them two. It took over half the book for me to gain any interest or liking for the couple. After 60% I got invested and powered through only to be left wanting more at the end. It is HEA, but idk once i finally was cheering for the couple I feel as tho the tension and build up just died.
-Cons-
Grammar errors, repeated words
Lot of errors, some text was hard to follow because of errors
Spice scene was explained poorly, not very descriptive or immersive (began around 45%)
The MMC is white but he’s written to sound like a black man (or maybe in my mind he just sounded black)
I wanted more of Rose family mentioned
—Pro—
Gets really good at 60%!!
2nd spice scene is better and consistently gets better everytime 😉
I love a black FMC 😍
No dumb breakup just to get back together scene
First I want to thank the publisher and author for gifting me this read early! I am so grateful.
—Review—
Right off the bat, the plot didn’t thrill me, the whole forced proximity trope (which is usually my fave) bored me with them two. It took over half the book for me to gain any interest or liking for the couple. After 60% I got invested and powered through only to be left wanting more at the end. It is HEA, but idk once i finally was cheering for the couple I feel as tho the tension and build up just died.
-Cons-
Grammar errors, repeated words
Lot of errors, some text was hard to follow because of errors
Spice scene was explained poorly, not very descriptive or immersive (began around 45%)
The MMC is white but he’s written to sound like a black man (or maybe in my mind he just sounded black)
I wanted more of Rose family mentioned
—Pro—
Gets really good at 60%!!
2nd spice scene is better and consistently gets better everytime 😉
I love a black FMC 😍
No dumb breakup just to get back together scene
July 6, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
3.5/5
After leaving her ex whom she lived with, Rose (FMC) does not have anywhere to stay. Rose's parents do not have room for her to stay at their place in New York, so she is moving in with her childhood competitor ,Wes (MMC), in Jepsen by suggestion from her dad. Come to find out they are both working at Wes father's bar, where they both are competing to create a new cocktail. The competition consists of a cocktail they created together and then one made by each person. Throughout their lives Rose and Wes have been rivals. It all started when Wes won a baby competition while Rose got second place, this back and fourth has gone on throughout their lives. All that competition after so many years created an unexpected bond between the two enemies. Should they act on this attraction and feelings when they hated each other since they were little? Is it worth it to try and start a relationship when Rose is set to leave after the competition?
This is a quick read filled with spice and banter. It is a perfect story for those who love the enemies to lovers trope. I hope there is more to come with Rose and Wes.
3.5/5
After leaving her ex whom she lived with, Rose (FMC) does not have anywhere to stay. Rose's parents do not have room for her to stay at their place in New York, so she is moving in with her childhood competitor ,Wes (MMC), in Jepsen by suggestion from her dad. Come to find out they are both working at Wes father's bar, where they both are competing to create a new cocktail. The competition consists of a cocktail they created together and then one made by each person. Throughout their lives Rose and Wes have been rivals. It all started when Wes won a baby competition while Rose got second place, this back and fourth has gone on throughout their lives. All that competition after so many years created an unexpected bond between the two enemies. Should they act on this attraction and feelings when they hated each other since they were little? Is it worth it to try and start a relationship when Rose is set to leave after the competition?
This is a quick read filled with spice and banter. It is a perfect story for those who love the enemies to lovers trope. I hope there is more to come with Rose and Wes.
July 7, 2024
Y’all this book was so cute! The perfect read when you want a fun, fast-paced, summer light read. I was lucky to be a member of Audrey Vaughan’s ARC team for Sips About To Go Down! This small town, forced proximity frenemies to lovers book checked all my boxes. One bed? Done! A sexy ass man who’s down bad for his woman? Check! He cooks??? *Soaked.* The spice was steamy but not overwhelming if you’re not a fan of long graphic descriptions. The diverse representation was refreshing, and I loved seeing Rose rebuild herself and follow her heart. I was proud of Wes for taking ownership of his past and putting in the work to rebuild his reputation, and his solid work ethic.
I love that everyone knew they would eventually get together, they just needed to pull their stubborn heads’ out of their asses. Although there was a third-act breakup, there wasn’t a massive fight or betrayal. It was one of those instances where two stubborn people needed some space to realize they were getting in their own way. I usually hate third-act breakups but this was well written and realistic. Overall a very well-written lighthearted story and I can’t wait for Jasper’s story. 🍻
I love that everyone knew they would eventually get together, they just needed to pull their stubborn heads’ out of their asses. Although there was a third-act breakup, there wasn’t a massive fight or betrayal. It was one of those instances where two stubborn people needed some space to realize they were getting in their own way. I usually hate third-act breakups but this was well written and realistic. Overall a very well-written lighthearted story and I can’t wait for Jasper’s story. 🍻
July 6, 2024
I absolutely loved reading Sips About to Go Down and seeing the development between Wes and Rose. Not only do these characters have wicked banter from the first moment they reunite, there is also a sweet amount of tenderness as they grow to realize their attraction and subsequent feelings for each other.
It doesn’t take long for Wes to fall hard for Rose, and it was so fun switching between their perspectives and seeing the moments in which they each realized they were down bad. His adorable furry friends Murphy and Dennis made me laugh out loud, and showed a really nice side of Wes in contrast to his sarcastic, witty commentary with Rose.
In a sweet and amusing small town setting, Sips About to Go Down is a joyful, lighthearted read with a fun cast of supporting characters and dynamics. I look forward to reading more of Audrey Vaughn’s books in the future and absolutely recommend this one!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
It doesn’t take long for Wes to fall hard for Rose, and it was so fun switching between their perspectives and seeing the moments in which they each realized they were down bad. His adorable furry friends Murphy and Dennis made me laugh out loud, and showed a really nice side of Wes in contrast to his sarcastic, witty commentary with Rose.
In a sweet and amusing small town setting, Sips About to Go Down is a joyful, lighthearted read with a fun cast of supporting characters and dynamics. I look forward to reading more of Audrey Vaughn’s books in the future and absolutely recommend this one!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 8, 2024
Thank you, Audrey Vaughn, for an opportunity to ARC read Sips About To Go Down. This small-town, forced proximity, one bed, he falls first, rivals to lovers story — so cute. FMC Rose, and MMC Wes, grew up as rivals from the time they were babies. I would have liked a little more backstory on why, exactly, they were rivals. I loved their competitiveness with each other, because who can turn down a good bet?! Wes is sweet, protective, and he can cook?! 🥵 He showed so much growth throughout the book. I loved watching Rose and Wes get to know who each other outside of what they remembered growing up. And the spice was 🌶️🌶️ 🌶️ I can’t wait to read Bottled Up and get a little snippet of Jasper and Sabrina’s story. This book is available July 9th and I highly recommend if you love any of these tropes!
July 9, 2024
First off I want to thank Audrey Vaughn so much for this ARC. This book was so good, I swear this made bartenders more attractive. Rose and Wes having been rivals since they were babies, literally. When Rose’s life turns upside down, she ends up back in her hometown forced to restart her life. Getting a job at her local bar leaves her working with Wes, things start to heat up. This rivals to lovers story will have you smiling the whole way through. I really enjoyed the forced proximity in this book, the banter was just perfect. AND THE SPICE! My goodness. If your looking for a spicy quick read this book is for you.
July 5, 2024
Enjoyed this one lot!
Wellwritten story.
Rosie and Wes' chemistry was portrayed well, and the way that their relationship developed made sense. The side characters were nice, I liked how their friends and family were mature, sounding boards to the both of them.
I was rooting for them both, and the 3rd act break-up had me gutted. I did appreciate that it wasn't due to miscommunication, but something that actually befitted Rose's character arc.
This is the authors debut novel, and I'd definitely read their future works!
•••
I received an ARC from the author. My opinions are my own.
Wellwritten story.
Rosie and Wes' chemistry was portrayed well, and the way that their relationship developed made sense. The side characters were nice, I liked how their friends and family were mature, sounding boards to the both of them.
I was rooting for them both, and the 3rd act break-up had me gutted. I did appreciate that it wasn't due to miscommunication, but something that actually befitted Rose's character arc.
This is the authors debut novel, and I'd definitely read their future works!
•••
I received an ARC from the author. My opinions are my own.
July 11, 2024
Thank you to Audrey Vaughn for allowing me to read a copy of this book. I cannot tell you how much I loved this story. This story was so fun, and the ROMANTIC AND SEXUAL TENSION WAS SO STRONG in this book. Towards the end, there was a part where I rolled my eyes at, BUT I loved the ending and how it all wrapped up. This is such a good book, and Audrey's writing style just vibed with me so well. I was just caught by the allure and I would recommend this to any of my romance girlies, guys, and non-binary pals. I cannot express how much I loved this.
June 30, 2024
This is my first arc book. I was so excited and hope I can do the review justice. It's a cute rivals to lovers in a small town story. I love a black fmc, and I really enjoyed reading her happy story. The fmc and mmc history goes back to when they were babies and had an attraction to each other from the beginning of the book. I wish it deep dived a little bit to explain why the fmc viewed mmc as a rival. The spice is there. This is the first book I'm reading from this author, and I'm invested enough to read Jasper and Sabrina story. I'm also hoping for JD and Waylon to get a HEA. I wish it had more bantering. There were scenes that really could have been better with better banter.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 10, 2024
I received an ARC & these are my honest thoughts.
This was soooo cute. There were a few areas where it felt a little rushed and I do wish there was a little m9re depth to the characters but it was a fun, fast paced read!
This was soooo cute. There were a few areas where it felt a little rushed and I do wish there was a little m9re depth to the characters but it was a fun, fast paced read!
July 24, 2024
wonderful
I absolutely loved this book. My first read by this author. It will not be my last. It was funny and had lots of steam. The relationship was real. He loved her from jump and didn’t know it. Perfect!
I absolutely loved this book. My first read by this author. It will not be my last. It was funny and had lots of steam. The relationship was real. He loved her from jump and didn’t know it. Perfect!
July 9, 2024
This was cute, this was light-hearted and this was spicy! It had all the perfect rom-com feels and I absolutely adored it. Couldn't keep a smile off my face while reading it 🤗🥰
July 11, 2024
Super cute, fun, quick rom-com.
🌶 was just right.
Sooo tell me more about J.D. 👀
🌶 was just right.
Sooo tell me more about J.D. 👀
July 15, 2024
Not sure how i feel about this yet… had a lot of potential
March 18, 2025
Cute and fluffy, just for the vibes. If you need a palate cleanser, this book would be perfect for it. It’s easy and fast read! It gives “novella vibes”.
August 4, 2025
It started off really really slow but it picked up after the halfway mark. I initially did not like Rose but I warmed up to her. Her and Wes’ sex scenes were so hot and loved them together. Wes displayed all the features of the perfect boyfriend material. I loved the way he courted Rose.
July 8, 2024
This was a quick, cute small town based romcom and I enjoyed it! I loved the back story of rivals to lovers and even more so the mixology/bartender aspect of it. I loved reading about Rose and Wes evolving and falling in love!
I loved this cute story with just the right amount of spice and plot.
I loved this cute story with just the right amount of spice and plot.
August 29, 2024
Such an amazing book
Omg I really loved this book it was so good. I love how the characters had so much development throughout the entire story. Its a little spicy but I loved it.
Omg I really loved this book it was so good. I love how the characters had so much development throughout the entire story. Its a little spicy but I loved it.
March 20, 2025
I HATE 3rd act break up!!!!! Stop doing 3rf act break up it’s sooooo stupid why are we getting reconciliation on the last page AAAAHHHH. This whole book was just her pov “omg I like him so much he will never like me back and I have to move away so we can’t pursue anything”
His pov “omg I like her so much she will never like me back I would move away with her” like come on now! Why does no one in romance books communicate it’s actually so irritating.
Also how dare we call this enemies to lovers when he literally bought her dinner chapter 1 and they were fucking by page 100 pls that’s just friendly competition and a bit of banter. BRING BACK REAL HATRED!!! Yall not real haters fr
His pov “omg I like her so much she will never like me back I would move away with her” like come on now! Why does no one in romance books communicate it’s actually so irritating.
Also how dare we call this enemies to lovers when he literally bought her dinner chapter 1 and they were fucking by page 100 pls that’s just friendly competition and a bit of banter. BRING BACK REAL HATRED!!! Yall not real haters fr
October 29, 2024
5⭐️
This book was worth every 5 stars plus moreeee!! It’s such a feel good contemporary romance, that leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy with a grasping plot.
I think because I loved Wes and Rose together that this book didn’t seem corny, but it’s definitely something you would watch on hallmark but this is better. It’s the perfect book for the colder season that makes you wanna finish it in one sitting with your fav blanket.
Rose moving home was a blessing for her as she left her toxic relationship behind and found someone better than Erik. Also, I don’t drink but the creativity of mixings seemed so fun and peaked my interest. Overall 5/5 and definitely a top book for the year and the bonus epilogue made it even more special because it prolonged my time with the characters I’ve grown to love.
I think the author is new, seeing as I could only find this book published and the author must be commended on a job well done!! I hope to see a book on Wes’s twin or JD because the side characters also made the story humorous which is a YES in any romance.
This book was worth every 5 stars plus moreeee!! It’s such a feel good contemporary romance, that leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy with a grasping plot.
I think because I loved Wes and Rose together that this book didn’t seem corny, but it’s definitely something you would watch on hallmark but this is better. It’s the perfect book for the colder season that makes you wanna finish it in one sitting with your fav blanket.
Rose moving home was a blessing for her as she left her toxic relationship behind and found someone better than Erik. Also, I don’t drink but the creativity of mixings seemed so fun and peaked my interest. Overall 5/5 and definitely a top book for the year and the bonus epilogue made it even more special because it prolonged my time with the characters I’ve grown to love.
I think the author is new, seeing as I could only find this book published and the author must be commended on a job well done!! I hope to see a book on Wes’s twin or JD because the side characters also made the story humorous which is a YES in any romance.
July 2, 2024
Review from an ARC reader. I want to thank Audrey Vaughn for letting me be part of her ARC team.
rating: This book was a solid 3.5 ⭐️ but rounded down for Goodreads so: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
tropes:
rivals to lovers
he falls first
small town
one bed
Rose is our FMC. She’s forced to move back home to the small town of Jepsen when her whole life comes crashing down around her after her ex breaks her heart. She’s a pessimistic grump character with a chip on her shoulder.
Rose’s luck seems to be turning around when she lands a job and a place to stay back home, but when she finds out that she’s going to be partners with, and living with, her childhood rival, things start to heat up.
Wes is the town playboy who has a habit of goofing around. He’s just as thrilled as the matchup as Rose is, but he tries his best to make it work and ends up falling in love with her.
This is a fast paced little read and has a lot of spice. The story itself is super cute, but I find it lacking and full of holes. At around 250 pages of content, I can’t help but wish the author had written about 100 more pages to fill in some gaps. Parts of the story just seem choppy and thrown together. It seems like some characters are better developed than others and the
Overall, it’s a fast paced story that if you don’t expect a lot from, it’s a solid read. The characters are cute and the 🌶️ goes strong.
rating: This book was a solid 3.5 ⭐️ but rounded down for Goodreads so: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
tropes:
rivals to lovers
he falls first
small town
one bed
Rose is our FMC. She’s forced to move back home to the small town of Jepsen when her whole life comes crashing down around her after her ex breaks her heart. She’s a pessimistic grump character with a chip on her shoulder.
Rose’s luck seems to be turning around when she lands a job and a place to stay back home, but when she finds out that she’s going to be partners with, and living with, her childhood rival, things start to heat up.
Wes is the town playboy who has a habit of goofing around. He’s just as thrilled as the matchup as Rose is, but he tries his best to make it work and ends up falling in love with her.
This is a fast paced little read and has a lot of spice. The story itself is super cute, but I find it lacking and full of holes. At around 250 pages of content, I can’t help but wish the author had written about 100 more pages to fill in some gaps. Parts of the story just seem choppy and thrown together. It seems like some characters are better developed than others and the
Overall, it’s a fast paced story that if you don’t expect a lot from, it’s a solid read. The characters are cute and the 🌶️ goes strong.
September 7, 2024
This was a cute quick read. It follows the story of Rose as she tries to put her life back together after a bad breakup. She finds a job and a place to stay, unfortunately both of them are with childhood rival Wes.
Wes’ family owns a liquor company and they the assistant manager of the company bar. Wanting to grow and expand he pitches a canned cocktail idea to his dad. They think it’s a great idea but hire Rose to work alongside him. Problem is once they put the rivalry to bed (literally) and start to work towards a common goal together their competitiveness seems to open the door for deeper feelings. But can Wes, a notorious playboy convince Rose to give him a shot and not move to LA to chase her dreams?
Tropes:
Rivals to lovers
Roommates
Forced proximity
One bed
Small town romance
Thank you Audrey for the advanced readers copy to read and review.
Wes’ family owns a liquor company and they the assistant manager of the company bar. Wanting to grow and expand he pitches a canned cocktail idea to his dad. They think it’s a great idea but hire Rose to work alongside him. Problem is once they put the rivalry to bed (literally) and start to work towards a common goal together their competitiveness seems to open the door for deeper feelings. But can Wes, a notorious playboy convince Rose to give him a shot and not move to LA to chase her dreams?
Tropes:
Rivals to lovers
Roommates
Forced proximity
One bed
Small town romance
Thank you Audrey for the advanced readers copy to read and review.
March 11, 2025
I love the finding one self outside of trauma and growing together and independently . Although the troupe has been seen before, the author has woven Rose and Wes life and romance perfectly in this book and their story gives a heart-warming feeling overall. Amazing writing and story telling throughout. This is a must read you won't regret it.
October 30, 2024
what a disappointing ending ! she should have taken the job in my opinion and then that epilogue as well ?! been together on yr and they’re getting married ok buddy slow down. anyway in the beginning I thought the main character was gonna be insufferable but it was just a bad first impression one thing i disliked was the whole short short girl rhetoric it’s boring and over done !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2024
3.5 ⭐
🍸 Forced Proximity
🍸 Rivals to Lovers
🍸 Small Town
*~*~*~*~*
"God, she's so fucking gorgeous. I can't believe that she's even real."
I just want to thank Audrey Vaughn for allowing me an ARC of Sips About to Go Down! Please note that this review is completely honest and every thought is my own.
While reading this book, I went back and forth with what I would be rating it, I had so many opinions and feelings, and while I do wish I could rate it higher, I feel like my rating is fair and will make sense.
I LOVED the mixology part, I found the whole aspect of bartending, creating a new fun drink and competing to be something unique and original. I've never read a book with that kind of theme. While I loved this theme, I do feel that the title was a little misleading. I expected for the competition situations to be a little more dramatic. I thought we'd see something explosive happen and yet that explosion never truly took place, there was only a slight fizzle. Despite this, I continued to enjoy scenes which is one of my main reasons for rating it four stars.
Now onto the romance department... It lacked majorly for me. Don't get me wrong, Wes is down bad for our girl and I love that, I love how he acted and how as his feelings started to come to light, he became this simp for her. He had my heart every time he did something sweet and selfless just because it would make Rose smile. Also, CAN WE JUST APPRECIATE THAT THIS MAN TALKS ABOUT HIS FEELINGS?! HELL YES, AUDREY! I LOVE YOU FOR THAT! It's not often that you see a man talk about his feelings with other men, and rather than having a stigma surround that, it was appreciated and reciprocated.
Although I've praised the romance regarding Wes, I do feel that Rose wasn't as affectionate or as into Wes as she claims to be. His actions showed it more than hers, and while I understand that Rose was more in the zone of swearing off of men, it does come across that her feelings were more forced than natural which is why I bought the rating down. I didn't get the sense that she was completely into him and if anything, I feel like she would've been happier just keeping their relationship as a friends with benefits situation until her life picked up.
The final reason I bought the rating down was for the slight plot hole regarding Wes's backstory. It's mentioned that he was in jail but it's never truly elaborated on what happened for him to get to that moment or how it affected him. It was just kind of mentioned and then forgotten about when it was clearly a big part of Wes's life! I would've loved to see more of that back story, or at least a flashback.
As I mentioned at the start, I went back and forth with my rating, and I really do wish I could've given it a better rating, but I also think that for Audrey's debut novel, she did an INCREDIBLE job and I do want to read the next book if there's a sequel because I want to know more about Waylon and JD... If you've made it this far in the review, I would certainly encourage you to give this book a go because you could end up thinking completely different to me, but also go in cautious that you may not have as much romance as you love.
🍸 Forced Proximity
🍸 Rivals to Lovers
🍸 Small Town
*~*~*~*~*
"God, she's so fucking gorgeous. I can't believe that she's even real."
I just want to thank Audrey Vaughn for allowing me an ARC of Sips About to Go Down! Please note that this review is completely honest and every thought is my own.
While reading this book, I went back and forth with what I would be rating it, I had so many opinions and feelings, and while I do wish I could rate it higher, I feel like my rating is fair and will make sense.
I LOVED the mixology part, I found the whole aspect of bartending, creating a new fun drink and competing to be something unique and original. I've never read a book with that kind of theme. While I loved this theme, I do feel that the title was a little misleading. I expected for the competition situations to be a little more dramatic. I thought we'd see something explosive happen and yet that explosion never truly took place, there was only a slight fizzle. Despite this, I continued to enjoy scenes which is one of my main reasons for rating it four stars.
Now onto the romance department... It lacked majorly for me. Don't get me wrong, Wes is down bad for our girl and I love that, I love how he acted and how as his feelings started to come to light, he became this simp for her. He had my heart every time he did something sweet and selfless just because it would make Rose smile. Also, CAN WE JUST APPRECIATE THAT THIS MAN TALKS ABOUT HIS FEELINGS?! HELL YES, AUDREY! I LOVE YOU FOR THAT! It's not often that you see a man talk about his feelings with other men, and rather than having a stigma surround that, it was appreciated and reciprocated.
Although I've praised the romance regarding Wes, I do feel that Rose wasn't as affectionate or as into Wes as she claims to be. His actions showed it more than hers, and while I understand that Rose was more in the zone of swearing off of men, it does come across that her feelings were more forced than natural which is why I bought the rating down. I didn't get the sense that she was completely into him and if anything, I feel like she would've been happier just keeping their relationship as a friends with benefits situation until her life picked up.
The final reason I bought the rating down was for the slight plot hole regarding Wes's backstory. It's mentioned that he was in jail but it's never truly elaborated on what happened for him to get to that moment or how it affected him. It was just kind of mentioned and then forgotten about when it was clearly a big part of Wes's life! I would've loved to see more of that back story, or at least a flashback.
As I mentioned at the start, I went back and forth with my rating, and I really do wish I could've given it a better rating, but I also think that for Audrey's debut novel, she did an INCREDIBLE job and I do want to read the next book if there's a sequel because I want to know more about Waylon and JD... If you've made it this far in the review, I would certainly encourage you to give this book a go because you could end up thinking completely different to me, but also go in cautious that you may not have as much romance as you love.
July 6, 2024
Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🍹 Rivals to Lovers
🍸 He Falls First
🍺 Roommates
🍻 Everyone Sees It But Them
🍷 Small Town
🥂 Just One Bed
This book was so good and easy to read that I devoured it in one day. Written very well, I loved how easy it was to become connected to the main characters and their lives.
The story starts with Rose, who has just moved back to her hometown after leaving with the intentions of never returning. Things with her ex-boyfriend went left quickly, and she thought that she would have to depend on her family for help until she's able to get back on her feet, but that doesn't happen. Due to a little animal mishap she's out of a place to stay and her parents small downsized home isn't big enough to fit her as well. With that, she's not letting her current situation deterring her from her dream. She starts working at a bar and as a marketing liaison to help the Stryker family build their brand, but then finds out that she'll be working with Wes, who was her high school rival. Though she figures that she should be able to act cordial towards him, and she's all too aware of how he can get under her skin easily, she also can't deny the attraction that she has.
Wes works for his family's company, but feel like no matter what he does he'll always be viewed as a problematic young man that can't redeem himself. Though he's been trying for years to make things right with his family, he knows how they see him. His older brother is always watching over him, even when he handles the majority of the business responsibilities, and his father barely acknowledges him unless he wants something done. When he's force to work with Rose as well as compete to make a new drink that can be marketed, he dreads it, but then she becomes his roommate, and he knows that things just won't end well.
Despite things beginning rocky, and their high school rival continuing, Rose and Wes can't ignore the attraction that they feel for each other now that they are older and more mature. They work well with each other, and are even more shocked to find that they enjoy each other's company. Even when things take a turn for spicier moments between them, they both hesitate because they know that Rose doesn't intend on staying in town for longer than necessary.
This story was full of laughs, great dialogue, and spice. Though I did find that I wanted a little bit more, or that some things might have lacked a better explanation or description, I loved Rose and Wes, and was happy that they got their HEA. I can't wait to read more books from Audrey Vaughn
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🍹 Rivals to Lovers
🍸 He Falls First
🍺 Roommates
🍻 Everyone Sees It But Them
🍷 Small Town
🥂 Just One Bed
This book was so good and easy to read that I devoured it in one day. Written very well, I loved how easy it was to become connected to the main characters and their lives.
The story starts with Rose, who has just moved back to her hometown after leaving with the intentions of never returning. Things with her ex-boyfriend went left quickly, and she thought that she would have to depend on her family for help until she's able to get back on her feet, but that doesn't happen. Due to a little animal mishap she's out of a place to stay and her parents small downsized home isn't big enough to fit her as well. With that, she's not letting her current situation deterring her from her dream. She starts working at a bar and as a marketing liaison to help the Stryker family build their brand, but then finds out that she'll be working with Wes, who was her high school rival. Though she figures that she should be able to act cordial towards him, and she's all too aware of how he can get under her skin easily, she also can't deny the attraction that she has.
Wes works for his family's company, but feel like no matter what he does he'll always be viewed as a problematic young man that can't redeem himself. Though he's been trying for years to make things right with his family, he knows how they see him. His older brother is always watching over him, even when he handles the majority of the business responsibilities, and his father barely acknowledges him unless he wants something done. When he's force to work with Rose as well as compete to make a new drink that can be marketed, he dreads it, but then she becomes his roommate, and he knows that things just won't end well.
Despite things beginning rocky, and their high school rival continuing, Rose and Wes can't ignore the attraction that they feel for each other now that they are older and more mature. They work well with each other, and are even more shocked to find that they enjoy each other's company. Even when things take a turn for spicier moments between them, they both hesitate because they know that Rose doesn't intend on staying in town for longer than necessary.
This story was full of laughs, great dialogue, and spice. Though I did find that I wanted a little bit more, or that some things might have lacked a better explanation or description, I loved Rose and Wes, and was happy that they got their HEA. I can't wait to read more books from Audrey Vaughn
July 2, 2024
📖 Book Review! 📖
before going into my review, i want to thank Audrey Vaughn for letting me be part of her ARC team. it was such a honour and this was my first ever ARC, which was absolutely amazing so big big thankyou Audrey!🩷
rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
tropes:
🩷 rivals to lovers
🩷 he falls first
🩷 small town
🩷 one bed trope
this was my first ever ARC ever and i was so so excited, this book definitely lived up to my expectations and let me tell you why!🩷
Rose, the female main character comes home after breaking up with her ex and she’s desperate for a new job and a new place to live in. She found a job, who happened to be together with her childhood rival Wes. the two work together to create the best cocktail for the bar and company they’re working for, but they’re also starting a competition on who makes the best cocktail, which is something both Rose and Wes are into!
it was so much for reading about the two of them working and living together, how they managed to create the best cocktail together and you practically could feel the sexual tension between the two of them and it was just waiting for one of them to do something about it👀
there was also so much character development, especially with Wed. he’s trying to prove to his family that he had changed and matured enough to be the manager of the bar. Rose pushes himself to be a better person and to try harder and harder!
the two of them grow closer and closer, and it was so much fun seeing the two of them get to know each other without all the rivals and competition from their childhood around them. he definitely falls first and it was soo cute how he tried for make his feelings clear to Rose about how he felt, they’re soo cute together and i absolutely loved it!🥰🥰
why then give 4 stars? i felt like the story was definitely fast paced, that’s not a bad thing per se, but i felt like at some points at the books it could be a little bit more longer? like when they first hooked up together, i was expecting them to build up the pressure and really try not to give themself over to that pressure and tension yet, but it kind of just happened?
but overall, this was amazing story, it was a fast read & i would definitely recommend it if you like small town romances, he falls first trope, one bed trope and the rivals to lovers trope! if you do, this is the perfect book for you!🩷
Sips about to go down is coming on july 9th !🤍🍸🪩✨
before going into my review, i want to thank Audrey Vaughn for letting me be part of her ARC team. it was such a honour and this was my first ever ARC, which was absolutely amazing so big big thankyou Audrey!🩷
rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
tropes:
🩷 rivals to lovers
🩷 he falls first
🩷 small town
🩷 one bed trope
this was my first ever ARC ever and i was so so excited, this book definitely lived up to my expectations and let me tell you why!🩷
Rose, the female main character comes home after breaking up with her ex and she’s desperate for a new job and a new place to live in. She found a job, who happened to be together with her childhood rival Wes. the two work together to create the best cocktail for the bar and company they’re working for, but they’re also starting a competition on who makes the best cocktail, which is something both Rose and Wes are into!
it was so much for reading about the two of them working and living together, how they managed to create the best cocktail together and you practically could feel the sexual tension between the two of them and it was just waiting for one of them to do something about it👀
there was also so much character development, especially with Wed. he’s trying to prove to his family that he had changed and matured enough to be the manager of the bar. Rose pushes himself to be a better person and to try harder and harder!
the two of them grow closer and closer, and it was so much fun seeing the two of them get to know each other without all the rivals and competition from their childhood around them. he definitely falls first and it was soo cute how he tried for make his feelings clear to Rose about how he felt, they’re soo cute together and i absolutely loved it!🥰🥰
why then give 4 stars? i felt like the story was definitely fast paced, that’s not a bad thing per se, but i felt like at some points at the books it could be a little bit more longer? like when they first hooked up together, i was expecting them to build up the pressure and really try not to give themself over to that pressure and tension yet, but it kind of just happened?
but overall, this was amazing story, it was a fast read & i would definitely recommend it if you like small town romances, he falls first trope, one bed trope and the rivals to lovers trope! if you do, this is the perfect book for you!🩷
Sips about to go down is coming on july 9th !🤍🍸🪩✨
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