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Underneath that calm demeanour, I sensed lay a deeply passionate man.
Noah
To date, all my relationships that lasted more than a couple months have ended because I'm expecting something I don't believe is unattainable. Perfection. My parents have pounded the concept into my head. Success is only possible through getting everything right.
Even now, in my thirties, I live by that. What I strive for rolls into my business as the owner of one of the most popular British-themed pubs in Victoria, BC.
Then one day, a guy named Brody walks into my pub and becomes a regular, coming in at the same time every night, and always ordering a G&T and buffalo wings.
His expression is often fixed, and he doesn't talk much, revealing nothing about himself. But his deep mahogany eyes speak volumes. There's someone passionate inside all that outward calm.
What I eventually discover about Brody makes me wonder if I want to take it on. A relationship with him would be far from perfection. Or would it? To call him mine, I'm going to need to rethink what perfection looks like and embrace a new way of seeing the world.
Noah is a sweet slow-burning romance about a member of the Salish Sea Society, a group of four best friends who have been through a lot together since high school, including each of them coming out as gay. This story takes place on the rugged coast of Pacific Canada and is a story of newfound understanding of the autism spectrum and finding passion and love beating beneath the chest of a man of carefully measured words and silent looks.
Noah
To date, all my relationships that lasted more than a couple months have ended because I'm expecting something I don't believe is unattainable. Perfection. My parents have pounded the concept into my head. Success is only possible through getting everything right.
Even now, in my thirties, I live by that. What I strive for rolls into my business as the owner of one of the most popular British-themed pubs in Victoria, BC.
Then one day, a guy named Brody walks into my pub and becomes a regular, coming in at the same time every night, and always ordering a G&T and buffalo wings.
His expression is often fixed, and he doesn't talk much, revealing nothing about himself. But his deep mahogany eyes speak volumes. There's someone passionate inside all that outward calm.
What I eventually discover about Brody makes me wonder if I want to take it on. A relationship with him would be far from perfection. Or would it? To call him mine, I'm going to need to rethink what perfection looks like and embrace a new way of seeing the world.
Noah is a sweet slow-burning romance about a member of the Salish Sea Society, a group of four best friends who have been through a lot together since high school, including each of them coming out as gay. This story takes place on the rugged coast of Pacific Canada and is a story of newfound understanding of the autism spectrum and finding passion and love beating beneath the chest of a man of carefully measured words and silent looks.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2024
28 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Leigh Jarrett
27 books67 followersLeigh Jarrett (she/he) is a queer, bigender author based in Victoria, British Columbia. They write MM+ contemporary romance, blending heartwarming happily-ever-afters with emotionally intense stories that explore trauma, identity, and healing.
Leigh's work often features underrepresented characters, including autistic and older protagonists, and focuses on themes of found family, resilience, and authentic queer love.
Their popular Salish Sea Society series is set on Canada's rugged west coast and showcases inclusive, deeply human connections.
With over a decade of indie publishing experience and more than two dozen titles to their name, Leigh is committed to telling meaningful, diverse stories that reflect the richness of the LGBTQ2IA+ experience.
Outside of writing, Leigh enjoys exploring Vancouver Island with their wife and building direct connections with readers through Bluesky.
Leigh's work often features underrepresented characters, including autistic and older protagonists, and focuses on themes of found family, resilience, and authentic queer love.
Their popular Salish Sea Society series is set on Canada's rugged west coast and showcases inclusive, deeply human connections.
With over a decade of indie publishing experience and more than two dozen titles to their name, Leigh is committed to telling meaningful, diverse stories that reflect the richness of the LGBTQ2IA+ experience.
Outside of writing, Leigh enjoys exploring Vancouver Island with their wife and building direct connections with readers through Bluesky.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
July 28, 2025
This is a pretty good book, with wonderful autism representation, a bit of hurt-comfort romance, a relationship that develops slowly at first, which is portrayed very nicely, interesting side characters, and quite intense sex scenes.
Unfortunately, at a certain point, the sex scenes became too much for my taste and some unnecessary drama was added. In my opinion, a conflict was resolved too hastily and boringly, only to be brought up again later, and an ex-boyfriend makes a completely unnecessary appearance that is never explained.
For most of the book, I was convinced that it definitely deserved four stars, but somehow I don't trust my instincts right now, as the story left me feeling a little frustrated.
I think I'll leave the four stars because, as I said, the story is very well told overall. I also really like the author's introduction regarding the autism spectrum, so 3.5 and rounded up.
The introduction also explains the writing style, without going into too much detail. At times, I found the style a little stiff and lacking in flourish. But that's not meant as a criticism – on the contrary, I think it works quite well.
And even though I'm a tiny bit frustrated, I'm curious about the other characters and will definitely read more from this series.
As for Brody and Noah, aside from the fact that they are quite hot and harmonious in bed, they are both very appealing characters. I really like how their relationship develops slowly and how they take their time to talk to each other and tentatively move towards becoming boyfriends. And Brody's animals are the icing on the cake – the whole thing is very amusing.
We didn't need to talk as long as we existed with each other in the same space. Feeling each other's warmth. Hearing one another's breath and knowing our hearts might be syncing in a steadfast rhythm. 🫠🫠🫠
"What is it you want from me?"
Noah smiled. "Your lips." He touched my lips.
"Yeah."
He touched my chest. "Your hands."
"Yeah. What else?"
Noah shivered, a complete ripple of desire. "Your cock. I want your cock."
"Where?"
"My hole." Noah's chest rose and fell dramatically. "I want your cock in my hole."
"Whose hole is it?" I brushed my fingers through his hair. Noah gripped the front of my shirt.
"Yours. My hole is all yours." 🤤🤤🤤
Unfortunately, at a certain point, the sex scenes became too much for my taste and some unnecessary drama was added. In my opinion, a conflict was resolved too hastily and boringly, only to be brought up again later, and an ex-boyfriend makes a completely unnecessary appearance that is never explained.
For most of the book, I was convinced that it definitely deserved four stars, but somehow I don't trust my instincts right now, as the story left me feeling a little frustrated.
I think I'll leave the four stars because, as I said, the story is very well told overall. I also really like the author's introduction regarding the autism spectrum, so 3.5 and rounded up.
The introduction also explains the writing style, without going into too much detail. At times, I found the style a little stiff and lacking in flourish. But that's not meant as a criticism – on the contrary, I think it works quite well.
And even though I'm a tiny bit frustrated, I'm curious about the other characters and will definitely read more from this series.
As for Brody and Noah, aside from the fact that they are quite hot and harmonious in bed, they are both very appealing characters. I really like how their relationship develops slowly and how they take their time to talk to each other and tentatively move towards becoming boyfriends. And Brody's animals are the icing on the cake – the whole thing is very amusing.
We didn't need to talk as long as we existed with each other in the same space. Feeling each other's warmth. Hearing one another's breath and knowing our hearts might be syncing in a steadfast rhythm. 🫠🫠🫠
"What is it you want from me?"
Noah smiled. "Your lips." He touched my lips.
"Yeah."
He touched my chest. "Your hands."
"Yeah. What else?"
Noah shivered, a complete ripple of desire. "Your cock. I want your cock."
"Where?"
"My hole." Noah's chest rose and fell dramatically. "I want your cock in my hole."
"Whose hole is it?" I brushed my fingers through his hair. Noah gripped the front of my shirt.
"Yours. My hole is all yours." 🤤🤤🤤
June 17, 2024
BIG SIGH
Honestly, up until the 70% mark I was feeling all happy and gooey and totally saw this as a 5star read going into my favorites shelf. It was cheesy in the right places and I was really enjoying it but then the third act break up happened.
Brody has an ex, they were together for 7 months ? And they lived together in a condo. He had been cheating on Brody the whole time and told him it’s because Brody was too cold and unfeeling.
When Brody takes Noah to his house he tells him he’s the first guy that’s ever been there because it’s his safe space and he doesn’t trust anyone to be there, he obviously trusts Noah enough. Noah was all “ what about your ex” and Brody said they lived in a condo not where Brody lives now.
So, they have sex- they’re both emotional (crying) during and Noah says he loves Brody. Brody is overwhelmed and his throat feels tight so he doesn’t say it back but hopes that Noah can see his love for him in the way he kissed him afterwards.
The next day when Brody is meant to meet up with Noah at the bar, Brody’s ex just shows up to his place ????? Brody lets him into his house because why???? The ex takes Brody’s phone and asks who Noah is after reading through the texts, asks Brody if Noah is his next victim because he’s claiming Brody hurt him by not loving him back the way he needed to be loved and claims to have showed up just because he cares about Brody and was concerned for him, then he leaves. All of a sudden, Brody decides he can’t be with Noah because he’s just going to end up hurting him like he hurt his ex.
He deletes the text from Noah that said he missed him and proceeds to ghost him FOR OVER A WEEK. He’s cried himself to sleep, so has Noah because he’s been literally ghosted after saying he loved the guy, poor Noah 🥺
So apparently 9 days has gone by and Brody is having dinner with his brother and he lets it slip that his ex showed up and said some things and his brother tells him he’s dumb and Brody FINALLY but ALL OF A SUDDEN just from that quick conversation he sees that he fucked up and needs to make things right with Noah because he loves him. And he leaves the restaurant to go speak with Noah.
At this point I was thinking, finally! He better be ready to grovel because poor Noah … Noah’s friend told him that maybe Brody was scared of his own feelings and Noah was going to give him space before going to tell him that he wanted him back in his life and to ask if he loved him back. . .
Anyway. NONE OF THAT HAPPENS.
Brody gets into an accident when he was rushing out to go find Noah. Brody’s brother calls Noah and of course Noah drops everything to go to the hospital to be there for Brody.
Brody is out of surgery and Noah is telling him he loves him and Brody responds with ‘I love you too’ AND JUST LIKE THAT EVERYTHING IS BACK TO NORMAL 🤡
Noah spent days with Brody in the hospital, moved some of his things into Brody’s place since he was going to be living with him to take care of him during his recovery and take care of the animals, once they got to Brody’s home which was 5 days after being in the hospital, weeks go by and to be honest I was barely paying attention to what I was reading because to me there was a giant UNRESOLVED ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM?? But no, they just went on living like lovebirds WITH NO CONVERSATION ABOUT WHY BRODY GHOSTED NOAH, ABOUT HIS EX SHOWING UP OUT OF THE BLUE? Why did his ex even have his address? WHY WASNT IT ADDRESSED. I went from loving Brody to hating him because he didn’t apologize????? Explain himself???? IT WAS 9 DAYS OF RADIO SILENCE AFTER HE WAS TOLD HE WAS LOVED.
I’m sorry.
I’m so annoyed I can’t even finish this book, I called it at 94%
The 3 star rating is for my enjoyment of the half before I started hating this book. I’m curious about some of the side characters and was hoping to read their stories but if this absolutely stupid third act with NO GROVEL/EXPLANATION is a common thing for this author I can’t see myself picking up anymore of their books.
Edit: fixed some jumbled words.
Honestly, up until the 70% mark I was feeling all happy and gooey and totally saw this as a 5star read going into my favorites shelf. It was cheesy in the right places and I was really enjoying it but then the third act break up happened.
Brody has an ex, they were together for 7 months ? And they lived together in a condo. He had been cheating on Brody the whole time and told him it’s because Brody was too cold and unfeeling.
When Brody takes Noah to his house he tells him he’s the first guy that’s ever been there because it’s his safe space and he doesn’t trust anyone to be there, he obviously trusts Noah enough. Noah was all “ what about your ex” and Brody said they lived in a condo not where Brody lives now.
So, they have sex- they’re both emotional (crying) during and Noah says he loves Brody. Brody is overwhelmed and his throat feels tight so he doesn’t say it back but hopes that Noah can see his love for him in the way he kissed him afterwards.
The next day when Brody is meant to meet up with Noah at the bar, Brody’s ex just shows up to his place ????? Brody lets him into his house because why???? The ex takes Brody’s phone and asks who Noah is after reading through the texts, asks Brody if Noah is his next victim because he’s claiming Brody hurt him by not loving him back the way he needed to be loved and claims to have showed up just because he cares about Brody and was concerned for him, then he leaves. All of a sudden, Brody decides he can’t be with Noah because he’s just going to end up hurting him like he hurt his ex.
He deletes the text from Noah that said he missed him and proceeds to ghost him FOR OVER A WEEK. He’s cried himself to sleep, so has Noah because he’s been literally ghosted after saying he loved the guy, poor Noah 🥺
So apparently 9 days has gone by and Brody is having dinner with his brother and he lets it slip that his ex showed up and said some things and his brother tells him he’s dumb and Brody FINALLY but ALL OF A SUDDEN just from that quick conversation he sees that he fucked up and needs to make things right with Noah because he loves him. And he leaves the restaurant to go speak with Noah.
At this point I was thinking, finally! He better be ready to grovel because poor Noah … Noah’s friend told him that maybe Brody was scared of his own feelings and Noah was going to give him space before going to tell him that he wanted him back in his life and to ask if he loved him back. . .
Anyway. NONE OF THAT HAPPENS.
Brody gets into an accident when he was rushing out to go find Noah. Brody’s brother calls Noah and of course Noah drops everything to go to the hospital to be there for Brody.
Brody is out of surgery and Noah is telling him he loves him and Brody responds with ‘I love you too’ AND JUST LIKE THAT EVERYTHING IS BACK TO NORMAL 🤡
Noah spent days with Brody in the hospital, moved some of his things into Brody’s place since he was going to be living with him to take care of him during his recovery and take care of the animals, once they got to Brody’s home which was 5 days after being in the hospital, weeks go by and to be honest I was barely paying attention to what I was reading because to me there was a giant UNRESOLVED ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM?? But no, they just went on living like lovebirds WITH NO CONVERSATION ABOUT WHY BRODY GHOSTED NOAH, ABOUT HIS EX SHOWING UP OUT OF THE BLUE? Why did his ex even have his address? WHY WASNT IT ADDRESSED. I went from loving Brody to hating him because he didn’t apologize????? Explain himself???? IT WAS 9 DAYS OF RADIO SILENCE AFTER HE WAS TOLD HE WAS LOVED.
I’m sorry.
I’m so annoyed I can’t even finish this book, I called it at 94%
The 3 star rating is for my enjoyment of the half before I started hating this book. I’m curious about some of the side characters and was hoping to read their stories but if this absolutely stupid third act with NO GROVEL/EXPLANATION is a common thing for this author I can’t see myself picking up anymore of their books.
Edit: fixed some jumbled words.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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July 6, 2024
Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐. 75
Let me start this review by saying, it's so refreshing to read stories where characters actually take the time to get to know each other before jumping into bed. Can we please have more books like this? I'm so tired of the "Fu*k first, bond later" approach. Not that there's anything wrong with it, but I'm just over it.
Anyway, putting aside my unnecessary rant, this has to be one of the sweetest stories I've ever read, and it's the biggest surprise of the year for me.
The story follows Noah and Brody.
Noah runs a successful bar and is a bit of a perfectionist. He is also insecure about himself because his of parents, who don't approve his life choices and profession.
Then there's Brody, who is literally the kindest person you'll ever meet. He's a criminal lawyer, but life hasn't been easy for him since he is on the spectrum. And despite his professional success, he struggles to form connections with people.
These two characters meet when Brody initially asks Noah for sex. Despite Noah rejecting the proposal, they end up sharing pie together and slowly start to bond.
From the get go we see how much they are in tune with each other. Noah is incredibly understanding and supportive of Brody's needs—he knows when Brody needs space to think or when he's feeling anxious, and he never pushes for more. He creates the safe space that Brody has always needed. And let me tell you, witnessing all of this was the most precious thing ever.
The representation of autism in the story is also very well done. Though take that with a grain of salt cause I don't have autism and have never met anyone who has. So my knowledge is limited.
Anyway I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend. This is book 1 of "Salish Sea Society" and there will be 3 more books which will follow Noah's 3 friends: Ethan, Liam and Owen.
Tropes/Triggers
Strangers to Lovers
Autism rep
Slow-burn
Mutual Pining
Possessive MC
Found Family
*I received an Arc from the author, and this my honest review*
Let me start this review by saying, it's so refreshing to read stories where characters actually take the time to get to know each other before jumping into bed. Can we please have more books like this? I'm so tired of the "Fu*k first, bond later" approach. Not that there's anything wrong with it, but I'm just over it.
Anyway, putting aside my unnecessary rant, this has to be one of the sweetest stories I've ever read, and it's the biggest surprise of the year for me.
The story follows Noah and Brody.
Noah runs a successful bar and is a bit of a perfectionist. He is also insecure about himself because his of parents, who don't approve his life choices and profession.
Then there's Brody, who is literally the kindest person you'll ever meet. He's a criminal lawyer, but life hasn't been easy for him since he is on the spectrum. And despite his professional success, he struggles to form connections with people.
These two characters meet when Brody initially asks Noah for sex. Despite Noah rejecting the proposal, they end up sharing pie together and slowly start to bond.
From the get go we see how much they are in tune with each other. Noah is incredibly understanding and supportive of Brody's needs—he knows when Brody needs space to think or when he's feeling anxious, and he never pushes for more. He creates the safe space that Brody has always needed. And let me tell you, witnessing all of this was the most precious thing ever.
The representation of autism in the story is also very well done. Though take that with a grain of salt cause I don't have autism and have never met anyone who has. So my knowledge is limited.
Anyway I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend. This is book 1 of "Salish Sea Society" and there will be 3 more books which will follow Noah's 3 friends: Ethan, Liam and Owen.
Tropes/Triggers
Strangers to Lovers
Autism rep
Slow-burn
Mutual Pining
Possessive MC
Found Family
*I received an Arc from the author, and this my honest review*
June 11, 2024
This book was so sweet! I adored Brody. He was so straight forward and honest, which I always appreciate. When we got to see inside his head, we saw his daily struggles as he lives with Autism and it made me love him more. And Noah... I love him. He's so sweet and kind. I love how he gets to know Brody and can read him. He is immediately interested in Brody and he just goes with whatever Brody throws his way, whether it's a direct proposition, not opening up about himself, or him sharing his diagnosis. Both men are just good, kind people and they go together so well. I enjoyed the slow burn of watching them fall in love. I really enjoyed the sweet moments they spent together as they fell in love. And I appreciated that they each had their own lives and problems outside of the relationship as well. Noah's friends were wonderful as well and I'm eager to read their stories. All the side characters were great, really. And the added characters from the LGBTQ youth center were delightful. Overall it was a really sweet, thoughtful, and soulful read. 3/5 spice levels.
Notes: lawyer/bar owner, autism rep, family issues, low angst, great friends, volunteering, super sweet, slow burn
Notes: lawyer/bar owner, autism rep, family issues, low angst, great friends, volunteering, super sweet, slow burn
June 12, 2024
Such a beautiful story, so special.
When I read about Brody in the blurb I was so happy, I love reading autistic characters, and this story was so perfect, Noah was perfect with him. The love and care of Brody and Noah for each other was on another level. I wish for every Brody in the world to have a Noah. There's obviously a learning curve, but Noah was so respectful and willing to learn because he knew that Brody was his person. It's so nice to read about the way they get to know each other to how much they mean to each other in the end.
Lovely read and I can't wait to read the rest of the series, Ethan, Liam, Owen, Jamal's stories.
When I read about Brody in the blurb I was so happy, I love reading autistic characters, and this story was so perfect, Noah was perfect with him. The love and care of Brody and Noah for each other was on another level. I wish for every Brody in the world to have a Noah. There's obviously a learning curve, but Noah was so respectful and willing to learn because he knew that Brody was his person. It's so nice to read about the way they get to know each other to how much they mean to each other in the end.
Lovely read and I can't wait to read the rest of the series, Ethan, Liam, Owen, Jamal's stories.
June 8, 2024
I loved this book! The writing is just impeccable! Noah and Brody are too dang adorable. The spectrum representation is special in this book. This was my first by this author but not my last! Love it!
August 5, 2024
ARC Review
This was one of the sweetest stories I have read. It is definitely a slow-burn. The characters spend alot of time getting to know one another before any spicyness occurs. They focus on building their trust, connection, and understanding of one another before submitting to their lust (which is definitely there).
Noah strives to achieve perfection and success in his life while attempting to obtain validation from his parents. He owns the pub that Brody frequents for his chicken wings and G&T. Noah also makes time to volunteer at his local LGBT youth center.
Brody struggles to feel worthy of love and acceptance because of a previous relationship that used Brody's autism diagnosis against him. Brody loves his career as a criminal attorney and his home (filled with all of his animals) is his sanctuary.
Noah and Brody build their relationship through conversations at the pub, small touches, glances, and other dates along the way. Both men have a history of non-dating and typically only spent one night with a man. The more they talk and spend time together the harder and harder they fall (without realizing it). Noah's compassion and acceptance of Brody and Brody's loyalty and protectiveness of Noah are so incredibly special.
This was one of the sweetest stories I have read. It is definitely a slow-burn. The characters spend alot of time getting to know one another before any spicyness occurs. They focus on building their trust, connection, and understanding of one another before submitting to their lust (which is definitely there).
Noah strives to achieve perfection and success in his life while attempting to obtain validation from his parents. He owns the pub that Brody frequents for his chicken wings and G&T. Noah also makes time to volunteer at his local LGBT youth center.
Brody struggles to feel worthy of love and acceptance because of a previous relationship that used Brody's autism diagnosis against him. Brody loves his career as a criminal attorney and his home (filled with all of his animals) is his sanctuary.
Noah and Brody build their relationship through conversations at the pub, small touches, glances, and other dates along the way. Both men have a history of non-dating and typically only spent one night with a man. The more they talk and spend time together the harder and harder they fall (without realizing it). Noah's compassion and acceptance of Brody and Brody's loyalty and protectiveness of Noah are so incredibly special.
June 10, 2024
Arc review
Noah owns this own pub called The Lion and Pheasant, much to his parents disgust. They would rather he went into the family law firm rather than waste his time in a bar. He feels he always has to do better, because his parents expect more from him. Noah rarely does relationships, he is usually the kind of guy who hooks up and leaves.
Brody is a lawyer and is also on the autistic spectrum. He frequents a bar (the one Noah owns) every week day evening for wings and a G&T. He sets his sights on Noah hoping for a quick hook up. After making it clear he wants Noah he waits for him to take him home for the night. Instead of going back to hook up, they talk and go out for pie. Brody holds back as he does t like to talk about himself until he feels he can trust the person.
Noah and Brody decide to take things slowly and get to know each other first. They both feel there is something special between the two of them. They become firm friends and then more, in this low angst but so spicy story.
This is my first Leigh Jarrett novel and i totally enjoyed it. I am hoping i will be reading more from this author, especially as i am keeping my fingers crossed that i get to read about Ethan, Owen and Liam, who are Noah’s friends and other members if the Salish Sea Society, which is their little friend group. The writing flows easily and the characters are described so well. It makes it a lovely book to read.
“To me, you're pure perfection”.
Noah owns this own pub called The Lion and Pheasant, much to his parents disgust. They would rather he went into the family law firm rather than waste his time in a bar. He feels he always has to do better, because his parents expect more from him. Noah rarely does relationships, he is usually the kind of guy who hooks up and leaves.
Brody is a lawyer and is also on the autistic spectrum. He frequents a bar (the one Noah owns) every week day evening for wings and a G&T. He sets his sights on Noah hoping for a quick hook up. After making it clear he wants Noah he waits for him to take him home for the night. Instead of going back to hook up, they talk and go out for pie. Brody holds back as he does t like to talk about himself until he feels he can trust the person.
Noah and Brody decide to take things slowly and get to know each other first. They both feel there is something special between the two of them. They become firm friends and then more, in this low angst but so spicy story.
This is my first Leigh Jarrett novel and i totally enjoyed it. I am hoping i will be reading more from this author, especially as i am keeping my fingers crossed that i get to read about Ethan, Owen and Liam, who are Noah’s friends and other members if the Salish Sea Society, which is their little friend group. The writing flows easily and the characters are described so well. It makes it a lovely book to read.
“To me, you're pure perfection”.
June 14, 2024
"Noah" is a tale that embraces the soul with the warmth of genuine love and heartfelt struggles. I was deeply touched by the story of Noah and Brody, whose romance unfolds with the grace and patience of a Southern summer. Like making sweet tea on a hot day, their love brewed slow and steady, each moment steeped in sincerity and depth.
Leigh masterfully explores the complexities of family expectations and the nuances of living with autism in adulthood. Noah's journey from under his parents' shadow to finding his own path is beautifully juxtaposed with Brody's gentle spirit and unique perspective on life. The chemistry between them is undeniable, building with each tender moment and shared glance, leading to an intimacy that is both powerful and deeply moving.
Leigh's writing captures the essence of community, love, and personal growth with an authenticity that resonates.
"Noah" is a celebration of love in all its forms.
Leigh masterfully explores the complexities of family expectations and the nuances of living with autism in adulthood. Noah's journey from under his parents' shadow to finding his own path is beautifully juxtaposed with Brody's gentle spirit and unique perspective on life. The chemistry between them is undeniable, building with each tender moment and shared glance, leading to an intimacy that is both powerful and deeply moving.
Leigh's writing captures the essence of community, love, and personal growth with an authenticity that resonates.
"Noah" is a celebration of love in all its forms.
June 22, 2024
Noah by Leigh Jarrett is my first book by this author. It is book 1 in the Salish Sea Society series. Brody, crown prosecutor, is drawn to Noah, a local pub owner. Brody is neurodivergent and doesn’t think relationships are for him. Noah also believes the same about himself. He thinks he’s too busy with his pub and not able to put enough into a relationship. These two start to build this really beautiful relationship that is quite a slow burn.
Then Brody’s ex shows up and ruins this amazing progress. It was kinda annoying. After Brody ghosts Noah for over a week, there is no discussion of why it happened. I sure hope it happened off page but this was definitely something that needed to happen on page for the readers. Since Brody doesn’t believe in lying I’m sure it happened but I felt a little cheated.
I love Noah’s friend group and I will definitely be reading all of their stories.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
Then Brody’s ex shows up and ruins this amazing progress. It was kinda annoying. After Brody ghosts Noah for over a week, there is no discussion of why it happened. I sure hope it happened off page but this was definitely something that needed to happen on page for the readers. Since Brody doesn’t believe in lying I’m sure it happened but I felt a little cheated.
I love Noah’s friend group and I will definitely be reading all of their stories.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
June 14, 2024
ARC-review
I loved reading about Noah and Brody's story!! It's a slow burn, with some family issues they deal with, autism in adults, (a new light for me, I loved that part so much), the friends were awesome! I adored both characters so much, their chemistry, how Leigh built their relationship was so endearing, I had happy tears escaping at times, and then the sexy steamy parts..WOW...I found myself captivated by this book well into the night to get to that ending!! I can't wait to see which one of the remaining guys ( Liam, Ethan or Owen) gets his next book!😉
I loved reading about Noah and Brody's story!! It's a slow burn, with some family issues they deal with, autism in adults, (a new light for me, I loved that part so much), the friends were awesome! I adored both characters so much, their chemistry, how Leigh built their relationship was so endearing, I had happy tears escaping at times, and then the sexy steamy parts..WOW...I found myself captivated by this book well into the night to get to that ending!! I can't wait to see which one of the remaining guys ( Liam, Ethan or Owen) gets his next book!😉
June 13, 2024
A truly delightful story, beautifully written. This story has a very sensitive portrayal of Brody, a gentle man on the autism spectrum, and Noah, the man who comes to love him. As the story unfolds, Brody’s behaviors and coping mechanisms are gently revealed to us as he and Noah get to know each other, and it’s shown how they can be misunderstood. The author’s writing was also superb. One of my favourite books I’ve read this year.
June 13, 2024
I love how realistic and natural Leigh Jarret's characters are in her books. This is one super sweet low angst story and a great beginning to a new series. Noah and Brody (a high functioning man on the autism spectrum) are so perfect for each other. I loved how the relationship moved slowly and the how honest the conversations were between them. It is fun and emotional at times as these two work through past issues and grab the future. I look forward to reading future books in this series.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy.
September 22, 2024
4ish stars with mixed thoughts with a couple of scenes. A full review soon.
January 4, 2025
Such a sweet story!
dnf
July 7, 2024Abandoned at 14%. It should have been earlier.
June 14, 2024
This is the first book in a series about four friends: Noah, the chivalrous; Liam, the lover; Ethan, the optimist, and Owen, the sentimental. They call themselves the Salish Sea Society. They meet up once a week on Sunday to catch up, support each other, and be together while teasing each other and keeping each other sane.
As a special education teacher, I often see neurodiverse characters portrayed as caricatures, or they get a partner and suddenly appear neurotypical. It frustrates me because neither of those things is true or fair. In Noah, however, we don’t have that. Brody is on the autism spectrum and goes to the pub owned by Noah, the Lion and Pheasant, every night. He nurses a gin and tonic and has wings.
The bar is very popular and successful. Unfortunately, Noah’s parents are lawyers in a family-owned firm and since Noah deviated from their carefully crafted plan for all their children to enter the firm while demanding perfection, he is never really happy that everything isn’t “perfect”. He keeps second-guessing himself about the pub, wondering if he has made a mistake. Even though he loves it and it makes him happy, he still wonders. “But is that slice of joy a measure of success?”
Noah notices Brody though. “There was something sad about them, his eyes. Like he’d lost someone or something. Like the weight of the world was on his shoulders.” Sometimes he doesn’t realize how his very direct actions may look to others. Such as when he decides he wants to have sex with Noah, so he waits for him outside the pub after closing. When Noah asks if he was stalking him, Brody realizes.
“Yes, I was unusual in the way I went about things. I chalked it up to being on the autism spectrum. I was high-functioning but I had quirks. What might be normal operating mode for neurotypical people didn’t apply to me. I know it made me awkward and I came across as cold and unfeeling…”
Of course, he isn’t either of those things. Awkward at times yes, but so not cold and unfeeling. His father is not good. “My father had made it quite clear while I was growing up that queers weren’t to be tolerated.” But he has his mother and he has his assistant, Alesia, who is there for him. After the awkward phase, he also has Noah as a friend. It was interesting to me (and really, how the world should be) that Brody knows some things are still not clear to him.
“In elementary school it never occurred to me that boys weren’t supposed to like other boys. The concept of only liking the opposite sex did not compute in my brain. Why not just like who you were attracted to?”
I am wholeheartedly with you on that one, Brody. Brody is a Crown Counsel lawyer and ends up coincidentally helping out the LBGTQ youth center where Noah volunteers after some homophobe steals their computers. Yet another thing Noah’s uptight parents are jerks about. When they throw a huge gala for underprivileged children Noah reminds his mother about the center. “Your little organization doesn’t hold the same appeal for the donors as what it does for benefitting normal children.” Seriously, I wanted to slap her. She says, oops, slip of the tongue but Noah knows better. Luckily for Noah, his brother and sister, while both are lawyers, are decent humans and love him.
I loved seeing these two navigating their baggage. Brody went through a family secret that was so messed up, plus had a long term boyfriend, Ricky, who cheated on him repeatedly. Noah has his family expectations and nastiness of his parents.
Two relatively small things kept it from being a 5-star story for me. One, and it’s a teacher thing, the word is “glans,” not “gland,” and it appears a couple of times. The second was a random appearance by Ricky that made no sense and really pulled me out of the story. It seemed to be there just to cause conflict, and there were so many better ways to do that.
But when Brody steps up for Noah, it’s magic. “I hadn’t simply torched a bridge; I had burned down the entire damned town leading to it.” Yes you did, Brody, and it was perfect.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
As a special education teacher, I often see neurodiverse characters portrayed as caricatures, or they get a partner and suddenly appear neurotypical. It frustrates me because neither of those things is true or fair. In Noah, however, we don’t have that. Brody is on the autism spectrum and goes to the pub owned by Noah, the Lion and Pheasant, every night. He nurses a gin and tonic and has wings.
The bar is very popular and successful. Unfortunately, Noah’s parents are lawyers in a family-owned firm and since Noah deviated from their carefully crafted plan for all their children to enter the firm while demanding perfection, he is never really happy that everything isn’t “perfect”. He keeps second-guessing himself about the pub, wondering if he has made a mistake. Even though he loves it and it makes him happy, he still wonders. “But is that slice of joy a measure of success?”
Noah notices Brody though. “There was something sad about them, his eyes. Like he’d lost someone or something. Like the weight of the world was on his shoulders.” Sometimes he doesn’t realize how his very direct actions may look to others. Such as when he decides he wants to have sex with Noah, so he waits for him outside the pub after closing. When Noah asks if he was stalking him, Brody realizes.
“Yes, I was unusual in the way I went about things. I chalked it up to being on the autism spectrum. I was high-functioning but I had quirks. What might be normal operating mode for neurotypical people didn’t apply to me. I know it made me awkward and I came across as cold and unfeeling…”
Of course, he isn’t either of those things. Awkward at times yes, but so not cold and unfeeling. His father is not good. “My father had made it quite clear while I was growing up that queers weren’t to be tolerated.” But he has his mother and he has his assistant, Alesia, who is there for him. After the awkward phase, he also has Noah as a friend. It was interesting to me (and really, how the world should be) that Brody knows some things are still not clear to him.
“In elementary school it never occurred to me that boys weren’t supposed to like other boys. The concept of only liking the opposite sex did not compute in my brain. Why not just like who you were attracted to?”
I am wholeheartedly with you on that one, Brody. Brody is a Crown Counsel lawyer and ends up coincidentally helping out the LBGTQ youth center where Noah volunteers after some homophobe steals their computers. Yet another thing Noah’s uptight parents are jerks about. When they throw a huge gala for underprivileged children Noah reminds his mother about the center. “Your little organization doesn’t hold the same appeal for the donors as what it does for benefitting normal children.” Seriously, I wanted to slap her. She says, oops, slip of the tongue but Noah knows better. Luckily for Noah, his brother and sister, while both are lawyers, are decent humans and love him.
I loved seeing these two navigating their baggage. Brody went through a family secret that was so messed up, plus had a long term boyfriend, Ricky, who cheated on him repeatedly. Noah has his family expectations and nastiness of his parents.
Two relatively small things kept it from being a 5-star story for me. One, and it’s a teacher thing, the word is “glans,” not “gland,” and it appears a couple of times. The second was a random appearance by Ricky that made no sense and really pulled me out of the story. It seemed to be there just to cause conflict, and there were so many better ways to do that.
But when Brody steps up for Noah, it’s magic. “I hadn’t simply torched a bridge; I had burned down the entire damned town leading to it.” Yes you did, Brody, and it was perfect.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
June 11, 2024
ARC Review - Noah by Leigh Jarrett
This is the first book in Salish Sea Society series, NOAH. This series is about a group of 4 friends in their 30s - Noah, Ethan, Liam and Owen who grew up in Victoria, BC along the beautiful coast of Salish Sea! They share a beautiful friendship of over 20 decades and they share everything with each other, meeting up every week!
Noah owns a British themed pub called the Lion and the Pheasant. He comes from a family of lawyers and is constantly nagged by his parents to give up the pub and become a lawyer and also to get married, settle down. But it’s Noah’s dream to run this pub and inspite of his hard work, he keeps feeling low and doubts his efforts and ambitions.
Brody is the silent, broody man who has been visiting his pub every night, except weekends, always order a G&T with buffalo wings. They hardly have a conversation, but Noah can’t take his eyes off him! One day Brody, waits for him and when Noah confronts him about his action, he blurts out “S*X”. Noah is taken aback but invites Brody to have some pie with him at a familiar restaurant and that’s how their relationship begins and blossoms into something so beautiful that you need to read this book!
Brody is on the spectrum, but he is nothing but a pure soul. I absolutely hated his Ex! He has achieved so much and has a hoard of pets and is so kind to his old dog, Bentley. I loved the way the relationship matures between the two, the amazing conversations between the 4 friends and the steam was so scorching and tender at the same time! And the messages between B and N, OMG hilarious and sweet! Looking forward to the next book in this series
Tropes:
🔹Slow Burn
🔹Autism Rep
🔹MM Romance
🔹Lots of pets
🔹Steamy and emotional
🔹Dual POV
Highly recommended if the above tropes are your jam!
This is the first book in Salish Sea Society series, NOAH. This series is about a group of 4 friends in their 30s - Noah, Ethan, Liam and Owen who grew up in Victoria, BC along the beautiful coast of Salish Sea! They share a beautiful friendship of over 20 decades and they share everything with each other, meeting up every week!
Noah owns a British themed pub called the Lion and the Pheasant. He comes from a family of lawyers and is constantly nagged by his parents to give up the pub and become a lawyer and also to get married, settle down. But it’s Noah’s dream to run this pub and inspite of his hard work, he keeps feeling low and doubts his efforts and ambitions.
Brody is the silent, broody man who has been visiting his pub every night, except weekends, always order a G&T with buffalo wings. They hardly have a conversation, but Noah can’t take his eyes off him! One day Brody, waits for him and when Noah confronts him about his action, he blurts out “S*X”. Noah is taken aback but invites Brody to have some pie with him at a familiar restaurant and that’s how their relationship begins and blossoms into something so beautiful that you need to read this book!
Brody is on the spectrum, but he is nothing but a pure soul. I absolutely hated his Ex! He has achieved so much and has a hoard of pets and is so kind to his old dog, Bentley. I loved the way the relationship matures between the two, the amazing conversations between the 4 friends and the steam was so scorching and tender at the same time! And the messages between B and N, OMG hilarious and sweet! Looking forward to the next book in this series
Tropes:
🔹Slow Burn
🔹Autism Rep
🔹MM Romance
🔹Lots of pets
🔹Steamy and emotional
🔹Dual POV
Highly recommended if the above tropes are your jam!
June 20, 2024
***ARC*** Noah by @author.leighjarrett
Noah was such a beautiful, soul satisfying, sweet read, I adored this book and the wonderful MCs. It was also exactly what I needed after a slump, it made my heart soar and smile, such perfection.
Noah is the first book from the Salish Sea series, the series is about 5 very close friends, each of their journeys and their relationships.
Noah, who comes from a well known family of lawyers, owns a pub called Lion and Pheasant. He is expected to follow in his family’s footsteps but has decided to take a different route and follow his passion for which he faces a ton of resistance from his family. This constant negativity and condescension really has an effect on Noah’s confidence and has him always doubting his achievements and his decisions. Noah meets Brody, a regular at the pub, both of them are equally curious about each other. Brody, a lawyer by profession, is on the spectrum, and an animal lover with a mini zoo set up at his place. One evening Brody propositions Noah for sex, Noah rejects him but takes him out for pie instead. Over time, their attraction builds and they form a bond, oh such a beautiful bond! They help each other through their individual struggles and eventually this attachment grows into much much more.
I loved how @author.leighjarrett builds on their relationship, it’s a slow burn and it is so emotionally driven. The intimacy will have you swooning - it’s been ages since I’ve read it intimacy described in this way and the sexual chemistry is electric!! Scorching! If you’re looking to read about 2 wonderful sweet as heck MCs, a mature relationship, a slow burn and are big on intimacy- I would HIGHLY recommend this book.
I can’t wait for the next book and will definitely read the series.
Noah was such a beautiful, soul satisfying, sweet read, I adored this book and the wonderful MCs. It was also exactly what I needed after a slump, it made my heart soar and smile, such perfection.
Noah is the first book from the Salish Sea series, the series is about 5 very close friends, each of their journeys and their relationships.
Noah, who comes from a well known family of lawyers, owns a pub called Lion and Pheasant. He is expected to follow in his family’s footsteps but has decided to take a different route and follow his passion for which he faces a ton of resistance from his family. This constant negativity and condescension really has an effect on Noah’s confidence and has him always doubting his achievements and his decisions. Noah meets Brody, a regular at the pub, both of them are equally curious about each other. Brody, a lawyer by profession, is on the spectrum, and an animal lover with a mini zoo set up at his place. One evening Brody propositions Noah for sex, Noah rejects him but takes him out for pie instead. Over time, their attraction builds and they form a bond, oh such a beautiful bond! They help each other through their individual struggles and eventually this attachment grows into much much more.
I loved how @author.leighjarrett builds on their relationship, it’s a slow burn and it is so emotionally driven. The intimacy will have you swooning - it’s been ages since I’ve read it intimacy described in this way and the sexual chemistry is electric!! Scorching! If you’re looking to read about 2 wonderful sweet as heck MCs, a mature relationship, a slow burn and are big on intimacy- I would HIGHLY recommend this book.
I can’t wait for the next book and will definitely read the series.
July 3, 2024
Unexpectedly beautiful and heartwarming. I love this book. It's always a gamble for me, as someone with autism, to read a book that has an autistic MC. Although autistic experiences vary incredibly and I'll always trust an autistic author to write their truth, there's always that shadow of doubt heading of "what if this book paints autism in a negative light". This book, as well as the author's care with the topics handled, filled me with happiness.
I loved the details in the portrayal of Brody as well as how Noah came to know and love everything about him, including his quirks. Autism was written as a strength in Brody and Noah never thinks of it as something to handle and all round I really liked the way it was done.
The last part of the book did throw me off a bit - it seemed a little out of place and I wasn't expecting it. That's my only critique though and it didn't detract from my enjoyment too much.
It was very clear from the beginning the author put a lot of intention into this story and it makes the romance feel very authentic and sweet. I adored Noah and Brody together. This is my first book by this author but I will absolutely read one because it checked every box for me. The romance was soft and lovely, the characters were likable and cute, and the small town vibe made the story cozy and homey. It's a great set up for the rest of the series and I'll be excited to read what comes next!
💕 Thanks to GRR for an ARC! These are my honest and voluntary opinions
I loved the details in the portrayal of Brody as well as how Noah came to know and love everything about him, including his quirks. Autism was written as a strength in Brody and Noah never thinks of it as something to handle and all round I really liked the way it was done.
The last part of the book did throw me off a bit - it seemed a little out of place and I wasn't expecting it. That's my only critique though and it didn't detract from my enjoyment too much.
It was very clear from the beginning the author put a lot of intention into this story and it makes the romance feel very authentic and sweet. I adored Noah and Brody together. This is my first book by this author but I will absolutely read one because it checked every box for me. The romance was soft and lovely, the characters were likable and cute, and the small town vibe made the story cozy and homey. It's a great set up for the rest of the series and I'll be excited to read what comes next!
💕 Thanks to GRR for an ARC! These are my honest and voluntary opinions
July 4, 2024
This is a beautiful and sensitive portrayal of a man on the autism spectrum, with all of the challenges he faces on a daily basis, the impact of events and interactions from his past, as well as the coping mechanisms to get him through stressful situations, seen through Brody’s mind, eyes, and heart as he opens himself up to Noah.
Both of these men have sworn off love, living only for one night hookups, no strings, no feels. When Brody wanders into Noah’s pub, something draws him to Noah, but it’s more than just a physical attraction. As they work to slowly learn more about each other, Brody starts to realize that Noah really sees him, he gets him, and sees something special in him. Brody feels the same about Noah, becoming more comfortable with him and learning to trust him. Both have had bad experiences in the past, and both are wary and protective of their hearts, but barriers keep falling brick by brick, until each figures the other is their absolute perfect one, their forever person. Now they just need to hang on to each other through misunderstandings and miscommunications to reach their HEA.
Realistic, relatable, engaging characters that take a slow approach to get to know each other, recognizing this other person is special, and could become very important in their life, if they just don’t overthink it and screw things up. Loved these two and Noah’s three friends. Hope each of them get their own book, beginning with Liam.
Both of these men have sworn off love, living only for one night hookups, no strings, no feels. When Brody wanders into Noah’s pub, something draws him to Noah, but it’s more than just a physical attraction. As they work to slowly learn more about each other, Brody starts to realize that Noah really sees him, he gets him, and sees something special in him. Brody feels the same about Noah, becoming more comfortable with him and learning to trust him. Both have had bad experiences in the past, and both are wary and protective of their hearts, but barriers keep falling brick by brick, until each figures the other is their absolute perfect one, their forever person. Now they just need to hang on to each other through misunderstandings and miscommunications to reach their HEA.
Realistic, relatable, engaging characters that take a slow approach to get to know each other, recognizing this other person is special, and could become very important in their life, if they just don’t overthink it and screw things up. Loved these two and Noah’s three friends. Hope each of them get their own book, beginning with Liam.
June 21, 2024
Sweet & beautiful story. Noah & Brody are the perfect couple. While Noah's hesitation with his feelings initially slowed things down, once Brody's unique qualities were identified, Noah stepped up to be the wonderful partner Brody deserved --and vice versa. Their slow burn build was perfect for them, and showed the individual growth of each character throughout the story. Noah learned to slow things down and take stock of what is really important in life. And Brody worked through his own trust issues and his confidence in handling stimulating social situations.
The Ex's visit is wholly unnecessary, as this story didn't really need a third act breakup, misunderstanding or traumatic event. I think Noah & Brody deserved better than that. I do appreciate that the temporary separation allowed Noah to make some amends with his parents, but they are too dissimilar and demanding for his overall comfort. Both sets of siblings for the MCs were great, and the rest of the Salish Sea Society crew are absolutely wonderful. I'm really looking forward to the directions each of the remaining friend's books take.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
The Ex's visit is wholly unnecessary, as this story didn't really need a third act breakup, misunderstanding or traumatic event. I think Noah & Brody deserved better than that. I do appreciate that the temporary separation allowed Noah to make some amends with his parents, but they are too dissimilar and demanding for his overall comfort. Both sets of siblings for the MCs were great, and the rest of the Salish Sea Society crew are absolutely wonderful. I'm really looking forward to the directions each of the remaining friend's books take.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
October 19, 2025
“NOBODY IS PERFECT NOT EVEN THE PERFECT FOOL”
~Huey Lewis & The News💕
“"My special someone would be a guy who is caring, kind, and intelligent and brings light to my life without even trying.
Someone I can sit in silence with and know we're still making a connection. Someone who will challenge me to think outside myself and enjoy the small things."
I quite enjoyed the first book of the series and was charmed by Brody and Noah’s deepening friendship that eventually became so much more but at a slow pace to showcase all their hidden flaws and depict Brody’s autism mannerisms towards learning to trust Noah with his heart and soul, beautifully!
The possessiveness of Brody was so cute and how he stood up for Noah was awe inspiring!
I loved the four friends who formed the Salish Sea Society on high school to support each other even twenty years later - Noah, Ethan, Liam and Owen- and I love the idea that each book will show how they each fall head over feet for their perfect person or persons…
A story about learning to trust with your whole being and realising nobody is perfect in a perfect world…
I look forward to Ethan next with an older gentleman…
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
~Huey Lewis & The News💕
“"My special someone would be a guy who is caring, kind, and intelligent and brings light to my life without even trying.
Someone I can sit in silence with and know we're still making a connection. Someone who will challenge me to think outside myself and enjoy the small things."
I quite enjoyed the first book of the series and was charmed by Brody and Noah’s deepening friendship that eventually became so much more but at a slow pace to showcase all their hidden flaws and depict Brody’s autism mannerisms towards learning to trust Noah with his heart and soul, beautifully!
The possessiveness of Brody was so cute and how he stood up for Noah was awe inspiring!
I loved the four friends who formed the Salish Sea Society on high school to support each other even twenty years later - Noah, Ethan, Liam and Owen- and I love the idea that each book will show how they each fall head over feet for their perfect person or persons…
A story about learning to trust with your whole being and realising nobody is perfect in a perfect world…
I look forward to Ethan next with an older gentleman…
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2024
Leigh Jarrett is fast becoming one of my favorites!
I just loved this story. At first I though Noah was going to be this big tough bartender character, but, he surprised me by being this sweet, tender, thoughtful man. He had a lot of depth that I didn't expect. Brody Surprised me as well. I found Brody more firm than I thought he would be. More forward in his actions. I loved it. I was very impressed with the way both of these characters were written. They were both so different from each other, I found it refreshing that they found balance with all their differences.
I like how they first connected, slow and steady. There was no insta love. Their relationship built slowly with little drama. There was self doubt and self esteem issues but they were handled well. The breakup was typical, one gets scared and one is stubborn until someone tells them to smarten up! The issues were quickly resolved leaving us with a deeply bonded relationship between the two MC's and hope for the future.
I really enjoyed this story and hope to read the stores of the side characters in the future.
I just loved this story. At first I though Noah was going to be this big tough bartender character, but, he surprised me by being this sweet, tender, thoughtful man. He had a lot of depth that I didn't expect. Brody Surprised me as well. I found Brody more firm than I thought he would be. More forward in his actions. I loved it. I was very impressed with the way both of these characters were written. They were both so different from each other, I found it refreshing that they found balance with all their differences.
I like how they first connected, slow and steady. There was no insta love. Their relationship built slowly with little drama. There was self doubt and self esteem issues but they were handled well. The breakup was typical, one gets scared and one is stubborn until someone tells them to smarten up! The issues were quickly resolved leaving us with a deeply bonded relationship between the two MC's and hope for the future.
I really enjoyed this story and hope to read the stores of the side characters in the future.
June 24, 2024
First in series (Salish Sea Society). Neurodivergent representation. Slow burn. Dual POV.
Noah is used to hookups but when the gorgeous regular customer at his bar asks him for sex, for once he’s intrigued and wants to get to know Brody better before jumping into bed. Brody’s professional life is organized and in his personal life he has a routine, he doesn’t trust anyone enough to date, but something about Noah resonates with him. A slow burn that is actually romantic and swoony, both characters are likable, respectful, and patient, even while acknowledging their overwhelming attraction.
I enjoyed all the small moments Brody and Noah spend together, how much they looked forward to sharing with each other, and how honest their conversations were. Don’t worry, there is plenty of high heat and spice once they establish their relationship, and Brody and Noah become singularly committed to working together to achieve their HEA. A really sweet read, a great introduction to a new series, and a romance that felt believable and emotional. 4.5 rounded up
Noah is used to hookups but when the gorgeous regular customer at his bar asks him for sex, for once he’s intrigued and wants to get to know Brody better before jumping into bed. Brody’s professional life is organized and in his personal life he has a routine, he doesn’t trust anyone enough to date, but something about Noah resonates with him. A slow burn that is actually romantic and swoony, both characters are likable, respectful, and patient, even while acknowledging their overwhelming attraction.
I enjoyed all the small moments Brody and Noah spend together, how much they looked forward to sharing with each other, and how honest their conversations were. Don’t worry, there is plenty of high heat and spice once they establish their relationship, and Brody and Noah become singularly committed to working together to achieve their HEA. A really sweet read, a great introduction to a new series, and a romance that felt believable and emotional. 4.5 rounded up
June 14, 2024
Leigh Jarrett's latest book - Noah is full to the brim with emotion. Brody comes into Noah's pub every weeknight at the same time and orders the same meal. One evening Brody waits outside for Noah saying he wants sex. Pretty up front, but what happens that night consists of only talk. They get to know each other, but even so Brody isn't keen to open too much about himself.
So there could be emotion baggage on Bordy's part. Does Noah want to go there - all the way? Does he want to get involved with someone who is so set in his ways?
This story concentrates on a character who is on the Autism spectrum and I found it so tender, so sweet, I fell in love with both these characters. Author Jarrett opens up in the introduction that they are also on the spectrum, so this story is written from the heart by someone who knows the issues, the heartbreak, the problems this causes - not only for the sufferer but also for their loved ones.
I heartily recommend this story.
So there could be emotion baggage on Bordy's part. Does Noah want to go there - all the way? Does he want to get involved with someone who is so set in his ways?
This story concentrates on a character who is on the Autism spectrum and I found it so tender, so sweet, I fell in love with both these characters. Author Jarrett opens up in the introduction that they are also on the spectrum, so this story is written from the heart by someone who knows the issues, the heartbreak, the problems this causes - not only for the sufferer but also for their loved ones.
I heartily recommend this story.
July 4, 2024
I loved this book! This was one of the sweetest slow-burn stories I have read. The characters spent a lot of time getting to know each other, focusing on building trust and connection before any spice occurs.
Noah is driven by a need for perfection and parental validation. He owns a pub that Brody frequents for chicken wings and G&T and also volunteers at a local LGBT youth centre.
Brody, a criminal attorney, struggles with feelings of unworthiness due to a past relationship that weaponised his autism diagnosis. His home, filled with animals, is his sanctuary.
Noah and Brody build their relationship through conversations at the pub, small touches, glances and dates. Both men have histories of one-night stands, but as they spend more time together, they unknowingly fall hard for each other. Noah's compassion and acceptance of Brody and Brody's loyalty and protectiveness towards Noah, make their relationship incredibly special.
Noah is driven by a need for perfection and parental validation. He owns a pub that Brody frequents for chicken wings and G&T and also volunteers at a local LGBT youth centre.
Brody, a criminal attorney, struggles with feelings of unworthiness due to a past relationship that weaponised his autism diagnosis. His home, filled with animals, is his sanctuary.
Noah and Brody build their relationship through conversations at the pub, small touches, glances and dates. Both men have histories of one-night stands, but as they spend more time together, they unknowingly fall hard for each other. Noah's compassion and acceptance of Brody and Brody's loyalty and protectiveness towards Noah, make their relationship incredibly special.
February 27, 2025
I was so sure this was going to be a solid 4* but unfortunately what happened at the end, was really annoying and out of the blue. The book did not need that weird drama just for the sake of it. It did not add anything to the story and it only made me dislike Brody. His behaviour just changed and Noah did not deserve it. It was not even discussed after, just ILY's exchanged and everyone is fine and dandy.
But I was willing to ignore most of it until what I dislike the most in a book happened here. Someone is badly hurt, has broken bones, is recovering from an operation and has spent time in hospital but once home they are having sex straight away.
Honestly, sex is not the only way to bring your characters together. In fact in most books, the sex itself does not advance the plot at all, it's mostly filler. It's the intimacy and taking care of each other that brings them together.
I think I need a break before deciding if I am going to read the next book or not.
But I was willing to ignore most of it until what I dislike the most in a book happened here. Someone is badly hurt, has broken bones, is recovering from an operation and has spent time in hospital but once home they are having sex straight away.
Honestly, sex is not the only way to bring your characters together. In fact in most books, the sex itself does not advance the plot at all, it's mostly filler. It's the intimacy and taking care of each other that brings them together.
I think I need a break before deciding if I am going to read the next book or not.
July 3, 2024
What a great start to a new series about four friends living on the beautiful Salish Sea coast.
Noah and Brody's story is a wonderful and heartwarming read and I loved every minute. It's a slow-blooming romance where both characters spend a lot of time getting to know each other because they sense something special is happening between them.
Noah is such a sweet and caring person, but he sometimes struggles with whether opening a bar instead of following family wishes was the right decision.
Brody is a lawyer and struggles with the daily problems that come with having an autism spectrum disorder. He is such a loving, open and honest person, I fell in love with him immediately.
Their friends are such sweet hearts and are instantly supportive of their relationship. I would have loved to know more about Kyle from the LGBTQ youth center, but maybe he'll show up again in the next books.
Anyway, I absolutely loved this story and can't wait to read book 2!
Noah and Brody's story is a wonderful and heartwarming read and I loved every minute. It's a slow-blooming romance where both characters spend a lot of time getting to know each other because they sense something special is happening between them.
Noah is such a sweet and caring person, but he sometimes struggles with whether opening a bar instead of following family wishes was the right decision.
Brody is a lawyer and struggles with the daily problems that come with having an autism spectrum disorder. He is such a loving, open and honest person, I fell in love with him immediately.
Their friends are such sweet hearts and are instantly supportive of their relationship. I would have loved to know more about Kyle from the LGBTQ youth center, but maybe he'll show up again in the next books.
Anyway, I absolutely loved this story and can't wait to read book 2!
July 9, 2024
I love it when two characters are perfect for each other but are going to have to do some work and learn some flexibility in order to make the relationship work. Noah and Brody are excellent examples of this. Noah has parents that are real winners and have left him with a crippling need to achieve perfection in all things in an failing attempts to gain their approval. That has carried over into a search for the perfect romantic partner as well. He seems to think that perfect person will fit right into his life and he won't have to do anything. When he finds himself very much attracted to Brody he has to realize what he's seeking doesn't exist. Love is messy, complicated and Brody has his own issues with trust, openness and expressing emotions. Both these characters grow and change through the story beautifully. Also loved the Canadian setting.
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