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Rest Ashored
Dev O'Donnell has spent his whole life in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, surrounded by a sea of gay men. As the sole proprietor of his family's quaint but humble inn, he spends most of his free time posting his artwork on social media and dreaming of finding Mr. Right. Ready for another long, lonely summer caring for his guests, Dev can't believe his luck when he bumps into a handsome stranger on the boardwalk and starts crushing on a mysterious photographer he's met online. But just when it seems like his losing streak with love is finally turning around, Dev learns that a posh boutique hotel is about to open across the street and put him out of business.
Bryce Parker, a man of charm and ambition, is the type of player that everyone loves to hate. By day, he's climbing the corporate ladder at Pinnacle Resorts, and by night, he's building a sordid reputation for too many numerous romantic conquests in Los Angeles. Eager to advance his career and start anew in a place where nobody knows his name, Bryce seizes the opportunity to manage a new luxury hotel in Rehoboth Beach. With a sharp business mind and a voracious libido, he unexpectedly finds himself entangled in a love triangle with a hot nerd he connects with on the beach and a talented artist he's been conversing with on Instagram.
Dev and Bryce find out the hard way that there's a fine line between love and hate when they discover that the guy they've been virtually falling for is their real-life archnemesis. Will their unscrupulous business schemes make nightmares of their romantic dreams, or will love conquer all in this modern, gay twist on the classic rom-com movie You've Got Mail?
Bryce Parker, a man of charm and ambition, is the type of player that everyone loves to hate. By day, he's climbing the corporate ladder at Pinnacle Resorts, and by night, he's building a sordid reputation for too many numerous romantic conquests in Los Angeles. Eager to advance his career and start anew in a place where nobody knows his name, Bryce seizes the opportunity to manage a new luxury hotel in Rehoboth Beach. With a sharp business mind and a voracious libido, he unexpectedly finds himself entangled in a love triangle with a hot nerd he connects with on the beach and a talented artist he's been conversing with on Instagram.
Dev and Bryce find out the hard way that there's a fine line between love and hate when they discover that the guy they've been virtually falling for is their real-life archnemesis. Will their unscrupulous business schemes make nightmares of their romantic dreams, or will love conquer all in this modern, gay twist on the classic rom-com movie You've Got Mail?
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2024
11 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 6, 2024
dnf @ 41%
I've never been this bored reading a book in a long minute. There's huge blocks of words that are just pointless descriptions we don't need to know, the writing is incredibly juvenile and almost unreadable, both characters are unserious and you can't possibly expect me to believe they're both in their 30s. It's also insane how nothing significant has happened and I'm almost halfway through the book... Out of love for myself, I will not be continuing this.
I got the arc from Booksirens in exchange for an honest review.
I've never been this bored reading a book in a long minute. There's huge blocks of words that are just pointless descriptions we don't need to know, the writing is incredibly juvenile and almost unreadable, both characters are unserious and you can't possibly expect me to believe they're both in their 30s. It's also insane how nothing significant has happened and I'm almost halfway through the book... Out of love for myself, I will not be continuing this.
I got the arc from Booksirens in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2024
MM- From Enemies to Frenemies
3.75 🌟🌟🌟.💫
Dev O’Donnell’s parents retired to Florida and insisted he take over the Rehoboth Beach Inn that has been the family business for years in the little coastal town in Delaware, the second smallest state in USA. Dev’s real passion is Art, not being the Jack of all trades at the Inn, and his parents depending on the income from it to fund their six months round the world trip. Dev is hoping to make enough so he can hire a Manager so he can concentrate on his Art. He loves the small town where he grew up and it has a lot to offer plus, it is also a very welcoming place for the LGBTQIA community especially gay men like him.
A year ago, Dev had uploaded a photo of his most recent work, a portrait of a male model which instantly had attracted attention to his ‘ Surf,Splash,Stroke’ ID on IG. One even DM’d him directly saying “if this is a selfie we need to meet up soon”. This was how he became friends through his Art on IG with a photographer in LA, whose ID is ‘Aperture Adonis’. and they admire each others work and have even flirted on line but never shared names, or a selfie photo. Dev also uses the ‘Clumbr’ site as ‘Salty Devil’ in his hopeful efforts to meet “The One”. There are plenty to choose from in Rehoboth and surrounding area.
After struggling for years to get the Inn in Rohoboth Beach upgraded and making some money, Dev is enraged when he discovers that a Luxury Resort Hotel is being built across the road from his small Inn. He makes it his business to visit and confronts the Deputy Manager Bryce Parker.
Bryce Parker has always been ambitious and has worked in the Pinnacle Resort Hotel Group, hoping to one day become a Manager in one of their Luxury Resort Hotels. When he is offered the immediate post to become Deputy Manager at their latest new location he grabs the opportunity, he starts packing and moving straight away, even though he’ll miss his older sister and her terrible 7 year old twins.
He certainly wasn’t prepared for the angry Dev O’Donnell storming into his new job and telling him he is destroying his parents hard work and hopes for a long trip abroad.
Being a small town paths cross between these two protagonists, and even more so when they are being sought after by several of the handsome guys who live and work in Rehoboth. A truce of sorts is called, but when Dev is the recipient of a piece of information he doesn’t hesitate to use it in his fight to save his parents Inn.
**************
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware is a delightful location with some very interesting side characters to enhance Dev’s daily life in the gay friendly town. There were so many interesting spots for socialising and meeting with these people and it was difficult for Dev and Bryce to avoid crossing each others paths on occasion.
Sometimes even on solo walks on the beautiful beach in the moonlight, with just the sound of the sea in the background, it might start some hearts beating a little faster, or even something more. Something that might be impossible to ignore.
Still there are two surprises here, one for each of these two lovely men who could be so good for each other, whether the will be good or bad for them, you need to grab a copy of ‘Rest Ashored’ and find out.
3.75 🌟🌟🌟.💫
Dev O’Donnell’s parents retired to Florida and insisted he take over the Rehoboth Beach Inn that has been the family business for years in the little coastal town in Delaware, the second smallest state in USA. Dev’s real passion is Art, not being the Jack of all trades at the Inn, and his parents depending on the income from it to fund their six months round the world trip. Dev is hoping to make enough so he can hire a Manager so he can concentrate on his Art. He loves the small town where he grew up and it has a lot to offer plus, it is also a very welcoming place for the LGBTQIA community especially gay men like him.
A year ago, Dev had uploaded a photo of his most recent work, a portrait of a male model which instantly had attracted attention to his ‘ Surf,Splash,Stroke’ ID on IG. One even DM’d him directly saying “if this is a selfie we need to meet up soon”. This was how he became friends through his Art on IG with a photographer in LA, whose ID is ‘Aperture Adonis’. and they admire each others work and have even flirted on line but never shared names, or a selfie photo. Dev also uses the ‘Clumbr’ site as ‘Salty Devil’ in his hopeful efforts to meet “The One”. There are plenty to choose from in Rehoboth and surrounding area.
After struggling for years to get the Inn in Rohoboth Beach upgraded and making some money, Dev is enraged when he discovers that a Luxury Resort Hotel is being built across the road from his small Inn. He makes it his business to visit and confronts the Deputy Manager Bryce Parker.
Bryce Parker has always been ambitious and has worked in the Pinnacle Resort Hotel Group, hoping to one day become a Manager in one of their Luxury Resort Hotels. When he is offered the immediate post to become Deputy Manager at their latest new location he grabs the opportunity, he starts packing and moving straight away, even though he’ll miss his older sister and her terrible 7 year old twins.
He certainly wasn’t prepared for the angry Dev O’Donnell storming into his new job and telling him he is destroying his parents hard work and hopes for a long trip abroad.
Being a small town paths cross between these two protagonists, and even more so when they are being sought after by several of the handsome guys who live and work in Rehoboth. A truce of sorts is called, but when Dev is the recipient of a piece of information he doesn’t hesitate to use it in his fight to save his parents Inn.
**************
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware is a delightful location with some very interesting side characters to enhance Dev’s daily life in the gay friendly town. There were so many interesting spots for socialising and meeting with these people and it was difficult for Dev and Bryce to avoid crossing each others paths on occasion.
Sometimes even on solo walks on the beautiful beach in the moonlight, with just the sound of the sea in the background, it might start some hearts beating a little faster, or even something more. Something that might be impossible to ignore.
Still there are two surprises here, one for each of these two lovely men who could be so good for each other, whether the will be good or bad for them, you need to grab a copy of ‘Rest Ashored’ and find out.
November 9, 2024
✨I think it's a light novel and extremely fun. It has given me tenderness and at the same time a lot of fun with the characters🥰
✨I love the summer feel it has (although it is not the exact one in the work), I feel that it would be ideal for reading on the beach or in these very hot months when we want something refreshing and fun
✨At the beginning it is true that I found the narrative too impersonal, which is why I had a hard time sympathizing with the protagonists at the beginning; However, the further I progressed, the more I wanted to continue reading.
✨I loved the dynamic that they already chatted beforehand and it was a real boom when they discovered it. Seriously, read it. It's a wonderful RomCom
✨I love the summer feel it has (although it is not the exact one in the work), I feel that it would be ideal for reading on the beach or in these very hot months when we want something refreshing and fun
✨At the beginning it is true that I found the narrative too impersonal, which is why I had a hard time sympathizing with the protagonists at the beginning; However, the further I progressed, the more I wanted to continue reading.
✨I loved the dynamic that they already chatted beforehand and it was a real boom when they discovered it. Seriously, read it. It's a wonderful RomCom
July 31, 2024
A Fun Queer RomCom
As a fan of Queer romance novels and steamy romcoms that make me laugh, I was excited to read Rest Ashored, especially with the premise of a little love-hate relationship and twisty witty banter.
I received this book as an ARC from BookSirens, and while it had its moments, my feelings about it are mixed.
To note the formatting, I really enjoyed the images that were placed within the book, showing believable text messages, notes, etc. giving readers a real-life visual of the happenings in the book.
The witty dialogue of Rest Ashored had me chuckling more than once. Lines like:
These exchanges were a highlight and added a fun layer to their romance. The geeky, flirty nature of their relationship was endearing.
However, despite the enjoyable banter, the overall characterisation was somewhat inconsistent. While I appreciate the alternating narration between Bryce and Dev, their personalities, reactions, and dialogue felt disjointed at times. At times it felt as if the characters were behaving in ways that didn't align with their personalities and established traits, which pulled me out of the story.
Additionally, the writing style itself had a few rough patches. There were several instances where tenses were switched mid-sentence, making it difficult to follow the flow of the narration. There were times I found myself backtracking to fully grasp what was happening.
I would also like to note, that the descriptions, while sometimes beautiful, felt overly detailed for the genre, almost as if the book were striving for a high-fantasy epic rather than a light-hearted beach reach. The excessive details detracted from the simplicity and enjoyment of the story.
One of my biggest concerns was the authenticity of the dialogue and the pacing of the characters' actions. While I mentioned that the characters didn't always follow their established traits, the dialogue often lacked authenticity when delivered. It often swung between being too stiff and overly formal, to contrived and out of place. During the conflict and its resolution, it seemed as though the conflict simply evaporated and the characters quickly moved past their anger and hurt without a believable reconciliation. Their actions felt inauthentic and ill-timed.
Despite these flaws, I found aspects of the book enjoyable. The banter between the characters was a fun exploration of their Queer romance, and some moments genuinely made me laugh. The concept of the story was intriguing, and it certainly left me wanting to visit Rehoboth Beach for a nice getaway vacation.
Overall, Rest Ashored was an easy read with fun banter and a geeky MC with a flirty charm that will appeal to fans of lighthearted romcoms. While it has its inconsistencies, it is worth picking up for the refreshing setting, and is sure to make you smile.
As a fan of Queer romance novels and steamy romcoms that make me laugh, I was excited to read Rest Ashored, especially with the premise of a little love-hate relationship and twisty witty banter.
I received this book as an ARC from BookSirens, and while it had its moments, my feelings about it are mixed.
To note the formatting, I really enjoyed the images that were placed within the book, showing believable text messages, notes, etc. giving readers a real-life visual of the happenings in the book.
The witty dialogue of Rest Ashored had me chuckling more than once. Lines like:
"A Catholic Priest gets more action than you, especially during Lent."and the playful exchanges between Bryce & Dev, especially their online personas, kept the tone light and engaging. I enjoyed the interactions of the different online characters and the ease of flirtation and flattery that passed between them
"Aperture_Adonis: Are you using the “Royal We” and speaking of yourself in the plural, or does “us” mean you already have a boyfriend? (Asking for a friend 😜)"
These exchanges were a highlight and added a fun layer to their romance. The geeky, flirty nature of their relationship was endearing.
However, despite the enjoyable banter, the overall characterisation was somewhat inconsistent. While I appreciate the alternating narration between Bryce and Dev, their personalities, reactions, and dialogue felt disjointed at times. At times it felt as if the characters were behaving in ways that didn't align with their personalities and established traits, which pulled me out of the story.
Additionally, the writing style itself had a few rough patches. There were several instances where tenses were switched mid-sentence, making it difficult to follow the flow of the narration. There were times I found myself backtracking to fully grasp what was happening.
I would also like to note, that the descriptions, while sometimes beautiful, felt overly detailed for the genre, almost as if the book were striving for a high-fantasy epic rather than a light-hearted beach reach. The excessive details detracted from the simplicity and enjoyment of the story.
One of my biggest concerns was the authenticity of the dialogue and the pacing of the characters' actions. While I mentioned that the characters didn't always follow their established traits, the dialogue often lacked authenticity when delivered. It often swung between being too stiff and overly formal, to contrived and out of place. During the conflict and its resolution, it seemed as though the conflict simply evaporated and the characters quickly moved past their anger and hurt without a believable reconciliation. Their actions felt inauthentic and ill-timed.
Despite these flaws, I found aspects of the book enjoyable. The banter between the characters was a fun exploration of their Queer romance, and some moments genuinely made me laugh. The concept of the story was intriguing, and it certainly left me wanting to visit Rehoboth Beach for a nice getaway vacation.
Overall, Rest Ashored was an easy read with fun banter and a geeky MC with a flirty charm that will appeal to fans of lighthearted romcoms. While it has its inconsistencies, it is worth picking up for the refreshing setting, and is sure to make you smile.
September 13, 2024
Professional enemies to friends to lovers is fun and delicious trope within Romcom. The gay twist on that between two (and more) men, along with a you’ve got mail style plot to it as well, makes for a fun ride throughout the story.
The authors do well in incorporating the “gay scene” within the story, especially within a small beach town. The back-and-forth of our two leads with the palpable sexual tension between them as they try to one up each other, is fun. What is also admirable to see that these two are more than just their sexual identities.
Yes, being gay is part of their character but also not what defines them. The story is well aware of the Romcom you’ve got mail trope and even self-aware to mention and make fun of it within the pages. It is a cute little romance that deserves your attention.
Also gave me pointers for my own business. It is a story that leaves you with a smile and wholesomeness of Emily Henry. There are no exaggerated descriptions and back stories but are all woven together within the narrative. The shifting between POVs reads seamlessly without sacrificing one over the other. I personally love the two POVs the showcases each of their mindset.
However, times when the writing suddenly changed pulling me out of the fantasy and the world of this book. Suddenly going and describing “ the night with the promise of upcoming something something” venturing into a rather cringing territory that stood out from the rest of the writing. The two paragraphs, surprisingly about the night forward, could be avoided, as they added nothing to the narrative. Also, the book goes on have a full on sex scene, but used the word “trick” to describe a hook up or a fuck that just seemed a tad bit off in the flow of things.
Definitely need boyfriends like these in life who are not perfect, but rather more flawed than they would like to admit. but they are trying to be better when shown the mirror and the things are on the other foot.
The authors do well in incorporating the “gay scene” within the story, especially within a small beach town. The back-and-forth of our two leads with the palpable sexual tension between them as they try to one up each other, is fun. What is also admirable to see that these two are more than just their sexual identities.
Yes, being gay is part of their character but also not what defines them. The story is well aware of the Romcom you’ve got mail trope and even self-aware to mention and make fun of it within the pages. It is a cute little romance that deserves your attention.
Also gave me pointers for my own business. It is a story that leaves you with a smile and wholesomeness of Emily Henry. There are no exaggerated descriptions and back stories but are all woven together within the narrative. The shifting between POVs reads seamlessly without sacrificing one over the other. I personally love the two POVs the showcases each of their mindset.
However, times when the writing suddenly changed pulling me out of the fantasy and the world of this book. Suddenly going and describing “ the night with the promise of upcoming something something” venturing into a rather cringing territory that stood out from the rest of the writing. The two paragraphs, surprisingly about the night forward, could be avoided, as they added nothing to the narrative. Also, the book goes on have a full on sex scene, but used the word “trick” to describe a hook up or a fuck that just seemed a tad bit off in the flow of things.
Definitely need boyfriends like these in life who are not perfect, but rather more flawed than they would like to admit. but they are trying to be better when shown the mirror and the things are on the other foot.
July 16, 2024
I received this ARC for free through Book Sirens, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily 😁✌🏻
I don’t read a lot of romance, but I’m an absolute sucker for queer romances and was very excited to read this! I had read B.J. Irons before (Hephaestus) but was new to Will Freshwater’s works so again, very excited.
This novel is so much fun right from the get go! It’s quite witty, extremely steamy, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I found myself rooting for these men from the start too, even though they both made some interesting decisions 😂
Rest Ashored is also a perfect beach read! It’s winter here in Australia but this book whisked me away to warmer weather, sand and waves.
I don’t read a lot of romance, but I’m an absolute sucker for queer romances and was very excited to read this! I had read B.J. Irons before (Hephaestus) but was new to Will Freshwater’s works so again, very excited.
This novel is so much fun right from the get go! It’s quite witty, extremely steamy, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I found myself rooting for these men from the start too, even though they both made some interesting decisions 😂
Rest Ashored is also a perfect beach read! It’s winter here in Australia but this book whisked me away to warmer weather, sand and waves.
August 7, 2024
Received this book from BookSirens as an ARC read.
Gay frenemies in a fun beach town anyone? Loved this book! It's one that you can't stop reading and you have to muster through in one bout because you HAVE to know the ending. I loved the main characters and twists and turns of the storyline. There was drama and a LOT of flirting. Not super spicy, kinda wish it was but enjoyed a well thought out and executed storyline.
Frenemy genre isn't really my likes because it's often done too cheesy and this was done well. Really enjoyed it a lot!
Gay frenemies in a fun beach town anyone? Loved this book! It's one that you can't stop reading and you have to muster through in one bout because you HAVE to know the ending. I loved the main characters and twists and turns of the storyline. There was drama and a LOT of flirting. Not super spicy, kinda wish it was but enjoyed a well thought out and executed storyline.
Frenemy genre isn't really my likes because it's often done too cheesy and this was done well. Really enjoyed it a lot!
July 26, 2024
This book was provided to me via ARC from Book Sirens. It’s everything I love in a mlm romance novel, a plot that is intricate but does have a bit of spice mixed in. I felt that there were some unnecessary plot lines and could have been shortened a bit, but I easily binged this book within a day. Would easily read another book by these authors.
March 11, 2025
This was cute. Really cute. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I know that the blurb says it’s just like “You’ve got mail” but I think this was even better. No emotional entanglements while on a relationship with someone else, and trying to find the one while fighting the image everyone has of you was adorable. I enjoyed it very much.
July 23, 2024
Bryce and Dev ❤️
4 Stars ⭐️
What a cute and fun enemies to lovers read!! It had lots of steam and some giggles, it was an all around feel good read and I'd recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4 Stars ⭐️
What a cute and fun enemies to lovers read!! It had lots of steam and some giggles, it was an all around feel good read and I'd recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
August 1, 2024
I'm rounding this up from 3.5. This started off a bit slow for me but it didn't take too long for the story to hook me. There were a few things that didn't work well for me. I did enjoy the overall story.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
July 22, 2024
A Fun Read
A cute funny, enemies to lovers with a bit of drama and the You Got Mail vibe, it was a delight to read.
A cute funny, enemies to lovers with a bit of drama and the You Got Mail vibe, it was a delight to read.
July 25, 2024
I read this book at two sittings. It’s easy to read and hard to put down. The story flows freely with intriguing twists, turns and “where do we go now” moments along the way. It’s a great read for the plane or sitting on the beach. The collaboration of Irons and Freshwater has worked well.
July 22, 2024
A fun story along the lines of a great classic. The m/c’s draw you in, maybe not at first, but they do. Their love story is fun and flirty with some banter that leaves you smiling. An enjoyable storyline that’s a bit familiar but still new. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
July 6, 2024
Both guys were not 100% truthful with each other , but I blame Bryce more because of the Adonis coverup. He should have told Dev the truth long ago . Dev was desperate to save his family legacy and home. Bryce was after a new job opportunity. I didn't like Bryce's holier than thou attitude when Dev apologized . He was more cut throat than Dev. Bryce didn't like it when the shoe was on the other foot!! Can these two ever find an even keel??? The epilogue was fanfreaking tastic . Good enemies to lovers m/m. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
September 8, 2025
This review first appeared on my Substack newsletter, Omnivorous.
Full spoilers for the book follow.
If you know anything about me, you know that I’m a sucker for a gay rom-com, and I’m an even bigger sucker if I happen to have met one of the authors. This leads me to Rest Ashored, the new romantic comedy from Will Freshwater and B.J. Irons. The book is a very queer, very sexy, and very funny remix of the classic sitcom You’ve Got Mail. It’s the kind of book that will turn you on, make you laugh, and maybe even make you cry a bit.
In short, I loved it.
Set in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware–one of my very favorite places, by the way–it focuses on Dev and Bryce. While Dev has spent his entire life in Rehoboth and worked his ass off to make sure that his family’s quaint old inn stays afloat, Bryce is a recent transplant, having been tasked by his boss to open the new, opulent resort hotel in, you guessed, it Rehoboth Beach. Thus the stage is set for the two men to instantly dislike each other, even as they also can’t deny their attraction. Complicating matters even further is the fact that the two men have been flirting with one another on social media and, while Bryce quickly figures out just who his online beau is, Dev remains in the dark. You can probably see where all of this is going.
In my not-so-humble opinion, one of the marks of a great romance novel is its ability to capture a sense of place. That is certainly the case with Rest Ashored, and one gets the sense that both authors have a great deal of fondness for this little queer enclave on the shores of Delaware. You can almost feel the ocean breeze brushing against your face, you can almost feel yourself walking down Baltimore Avenue or visiting one of the many shops and eateries that the characters visit. In some ways, the town is as much of a character as Dev and Bryce.
Indeed, place is key to both of them. Dev is invested in his parents’ rustic little inn not just because it’s in his hometown but also because helping it succeed means that they’ll be able to enjoy their retirement. And, when it comes down to it, he really seems to love Rehoboth, and as someone who’s fallen in love with the Delmarva region myself, I can see why. For Bryce, on the other hand, Rehoboth represents a chance to start anew, to build the life that he really wants but has never really had the chance to pursue.
There’s no denying that it’s really the palpable and steamy chemistry between its two messy male leads that makes this novel really sing. Each of them has their own arc and their own personality quirks that allows them to feel like real people rather than just tropey cardboard cut-outs (not that there’s anything wrong with that, of course. Sometimes, though, I like to feel as if I’m reading about actual people). They each have their own journeys, and they pursue these on their own and as a couple.
Of the two, Bryce is arguably the most abrasive, because he seems to have sold his soul to a corporation and, frankly, acts like a bit of an entitled jerk most of the time. He’s sexually voracious, and he’s not above hunting down a young twink when the time is right. At the same time, it’s clear from the first that he wants something more, that there’s a very strong part of him that wants to settle down and start a family. It’s really quite touching to watch him bond with his sister and her kids, as this allows him to show, to the reader at least, that there’s more to him than meets the eye.
Dev, however, has his own fair share of shortcomings. To begin with, he’s very stubborn, and he refuses to On the plus side of things, though, he really is devoted to his parents and to doing what he can to preserve their inn, even though all of the forces are against him. Moreover, he also demonstrates that he can be a bit ruthless when it suits his purposes to do so, and he’s not above making himself the victim even when he’s trying to apologize for his bad actions.
Fortunately, these two men manage to bring out the best in one another, once they get over that part of the book where they’re doing the opposite. The novel hits all the right beats, drawing us in and allowing us to fall in love with these characters as they fall in love with one another. It might be based on You’ve Got Mail, but it also charts its own course. And boy, is it ever a sexy, sexy novel!
As I’ve said on this newsletter many times, I think it’s really important that queer romance novels, whether M/M or otherwise, showcase the power of gay sex. Many gay men have been trained their whole lives to see gay male sexuality as dirty or wrong, and so it’s always refreshing when a gay romance author just leans into it. Given the rampant sex negativity that seems to have taken over so much of our culture–much of which, it’s worth noting, is driven and encouraged by queerphobic religious sentiment–I always breathe a sigh of relief when a book really just dives head first into the sexy bits. That’s certainly the case with Rest Ashored, and this book is as sexy as it is touching.
At the end of the day, though, Rest Ashored is also one of those books that’s also about big feelings. You want Dev and Bryce to end up together, even if there are also times when you just want to reach in the book and give them both a good shake so that they come to their senses. (As an aside: one of those moments occurs when both characters reveal that they’ve never seen You’ve Got Mail. Someone should take both of their gay cards away! Or, to put it somewhat differently: open the schools!)
So, if you haven’t yet, head out and buy Rest Ashored. It’s one of those books that’s simply made to be read while you’re enjoying the last days of summer. It’s also a book that’s begging to be read right on the beach.
Full spoilers for the book follow.
If you know anything about me, you know that I’m a sucker for a gay rom-com, and I’m an even bigger sucker if I happen to have met one of the authors. This leads me to Rest Ashored, the new romantic comedy from Will Freshwater and B.J. Irons. The book is a very queer, very sexy, and very funny remix of the classic sitcom You’ve Got Mail. It’s the kind of book that will turn you on, make you laugh, and maybe even make you cry a bit.
In short, I loved it.
Set in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware–one of my very favorite places, by the way–it focuses on Dev and Bryce. While Dev has spent his entire life in Rehoboth and worked his ass off to make sure that his family’s quaint old inn stays afloat, Bryce is a recent transplant, having been tasked by his boss to open the new, opulent resort hotel in, you guessed, it Rehoboth Beach. Thus the stage is set for the two men to instantly dislike each other, even as they also can’t deny their attraction. Complicating matters even further is the fact that the two men have been flirting with one another on social media and, while Bryce quickly figures out just who his online beau is, Dev remains in the dark. You can probably see where all of this is going.
In my not-so-humble opinion, one of the marks of a great romance novel is its ability to capture a sense of place. That is certainly the case with Rest Ashored, and one gets the sense that both authors have a great deal of fondness for this little queer enclave on the shores of Delaware. You can almost feel the ocean breeze brushing against your face, you can almost feel yourself walking down Baltimore Avenue or visiting one of the many shops and eateries that the characters visit. In some ways, the town is as much of a character as Dev and Bryce.
Indeed, place is key to both of them. Dev is invested in his parents’ rustic little inn not just because it’s in his hometown but also because helping it succeed means that they’ll be able to enjoy their retirement. And, when it comes down to it, he really seems to love Rehoboth, and as someone who’s fallen in love with the Delmarva region myself, I can see why. For Bryce, on the other hand, Rehoboth represents a chance to start anew, to build the life that he really wants but has never really had the chance to pursue.
There’s no denying that it’s really the palpable and steamy chemistry between its two messy male leads that makes this novel really sing. Each of them has their own arc and their own personality quirks that allows them to feel like real people rather than just tropey cardboard cut-outs (not that there’s anything wrong with that, of course. Sometimes, though, I like to feel as if I’m reading about actual people). They each have their own journeys, and they pursue these on their own and as a couple.
Of the two, Bryce is arguably the most abrasive, because he seems to have sold his soul to a corporation and, frankly, acts like a bit of an entitled jerk most of the time. He’s sexually voracious, and he’s not above hunting down a young twink when the time is right. At the same time, it’s clear from the first that he wants something more, that there’s a very strong part of him that wants to settle down and start a family. It’s really quite touching to watch him bond with his sister and her kids, as this allows him to show, to the reader at least, that there’s more to him than meets the eye.
Dev, however, has his own fair share of shortcomings. To begin with, he’s very stubborn, and he refuses to On the plus side of things, though, he really is devoted to his parents and to doing what he can to preserve their inn, even though all of the forces are against him. Moreover, he also demonstrates that he can be a bit ruthless when it suits his purposes to do so, and he’s not above making himself the victim even when he’s trying to apologize for his bad actions.
Fortunately, these two men manage to bring out the best in one another, once they get over that part of the book where they’re doing the opposite. The novel hits all the right beats, drawing us in and allowing us to fall in love with these characters as they fall in love with one another. It might be based on You’ve Got Mail, but it also charts its own course. And boy, is it ever a sexy, sexy novel!
As I’ve said on this newsletter many times, I think it’s really important that queer romance novels, whether M/M or otherwise, showcase the power of gay sex. Many gay men have been trained their whole lives to see gay male sexuality as dirty or wrong, and so it’s always refreshing when a gay romance author just leans into it. Given the rampant sex negativity that seems to have taken over so much of our culture–much of which, it’s worth noting, is driven and encouraged by queerphobic religious sentiment–I always breathe a sigh of relief when a book really just dives head first into the sexy bits. That’s certainly the case with Rest Ashored, and this book is as sexy as it is touching.
At the end of the day, though, Rest Ashored is also one of those books that’s also about big feelings. You want Dev and Bryce to end up together, even if there are also times when you just want to reach in the book and give them both a good shake so that they come to their senses. (As an aside: one of those moments occurs when both characters reveal that they’ve never seen You’ve Got Mail. Someone should take both of their gay cards away! Or, to put it somewhat differently: open the schools!)
So, if you haven’t yet, head out and buy Rest Ashored. It’s one of those books that’s simply made to be read while you’re enjoying the last days of summer. It’s also a book that’s begging to be read right on the beach.
July 24, 2024
This book definitely had some ups and downs. It's definitely a cute beach read, but there were some issues with it that ultimately kept me from giving it 4 stars.
I loved the location, as I went to the Delaware shore (to nearby Bethany Beach) every year growing up. It was a lot of fun to see a lesser-known locale that I am familiar with be the star of the story (especially when Bryce took his family to Funland--a Rehobeth boardwalk staple!).
I also liked the overall plot and the modernization of a rom-com classic, You've Got Mail. A lot of Dev and Bryce's interactions (both online and in person) were full of solid banter.
What didn't really work for me was the inconsistency of the characters overall. The book is written as alternating points of view between Dev and Bryce, but they honestly don't really act consistently throughout the book. (I also noticed a few spots in the book where it seemed like midchapter we switched viewpoints for a few sentences and then shifted back, which was a little jarring.) I won't get into details to avoid spoiling anything, it just felt like at certain points we had totally different people as the main characters, which made it difficult to really connect with them.
I also wasn't a huge fan with how the Big Conflict was handled or resolved. It was a fairly big conflict, and the characters kind of just handwaved it all away at the end, which wasn't very satisfying (especially given how very angry and hurt they both were and how they reacted to it).
This book did have some flaws, but I overall liked the concept and am curious to read more books in this series if they happen!
I loved the location, as I went to the Delaware shore (to nearby Bethany Beach) every year growing up. It was a lot of fun to see a lesser-known locale that I am familiar with be the star of the story (especially when Bryce took his family to Funland--a Rehobeth boardwalk staple!).
I also liked the overall plot and the modernization of a rom-com classic, You've Got Mail. A lot of Dev and Bryce's interactions (both online and in person) were full of solid banter.
What didn't really work for me was the inconsistency of the characters overall. The book is written as alternating points of view between Dev and Bryce, but they honestly don't really act consistently throughout the book. (I also noticed a few spots in the book where it seemed like midchapter we switched viewpoints for a few sentences and then shifted back, which was a little jarring.) I won't get into details to avoid spoiling anything, it just felt like at certain points we had totally different people as the main characters, which made it difficult to really connect with them.
I also wasn't a huge fan with how the Big Conflict was handled or resolved. It was a fairly big conflict, and the characters kind of just handwaved it all away at the end, which wasn't very satisfying (especially given how very angry and hurt they both were and how they reacted to it).
This book did have some flaws, but I overall liked the concept and am curious to read more books in this series if they happen!
July 11, 2024
The language and descriptions used in this book made it, for me, very hard to read. The author has a beautiful way with words, but the problem was that the flowery language and detailed exposition about actions and scenery were out of place with the sort of novel this was pitched to be by the description.
Either write a contemporary romance with funny and believable dialogue and modern setting OR write a historic fiction with flowery prose. Both cannot be done in the same book. It was almost like the author couldn't choose what sort of novel they wanted to write.
The You've Got Mail plot was presented in a fun way, I enjoy a good enemies to lovers trope. But neither character was portrayed in a very realistic manner. Dev was emotionally stunted in a way that was not compelling and Bryce could be a complete twat. But sometimes that's what a character needs to be before they have a redemption arc. Bryce needed to go a bit further in his redemption arc in my opinion.
I was disappointed with this novel. I wanted to like it more than I did.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Either write a contemporary romance with funny and believable dialogue and modern setting OR write a historic fiction with flowery prose. Both cannot be done in the same book. It was almost like the author couldn't choose what sort of novel they wanted to write.
The You've Got Mail plot was presented in a fun way, I enjoy a good enemies to lovers trope. But neither character was portrayed in a very realistic manner. Dev was emotionally stunted in a way that was not compelling and Bryce could be a complete twat. But sometimes that's what a character needs to be before they have a redemption arc. Bryce needed to go a bit further in his redemption arc in my opinion.
I was disappointed with this novel. I wanted to like it more than I did.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2024
This was a cute, light-hearted story. Bryce and Dev, and all their antics, are funny. For a while, I was not impressed with either main character. They were a bit too “get with anything that moves” for my tastes. However, I came to realize that was just the way they were. They each wanted a relationship, but their actions didn’t always reflect that. Ironically, this made the characters a bit more real. Real life isn’t always smooth sailing and picture perfection. It often has bumpy roads and questionable decisions.
I liked these characters, and they brought me many smiles, but I still had a hard time connecting with them. There were so many different tangled identities to juggle and sometimes the facts for various identities got jumbled. At times Dev’s character seemed sweet, geeky, and somewhat awkward, then he’d flip and do something that seemed mean or spiteful, then he’d show his cute quirky side again.
All in all, this was a nice, feel-good and satisfying story. Bryce and Dev really do match up nicely and it was fun to watch them navigate various obstacles to reach a well-deserved happy ending.
I liked these characters, and they brought me many smiles, but I still had a hard time connecting with them. There were so many different tangled identities to juggle and sometimes the facts for various identities got jumbled. At times Dev’s character seemed sweet, geeky, and somewhat awkward, then he’d flip and do something that seemed mean or spiteful, then he’d show his cute quirky side again.
All in all, this was a nice, feel-good and satisfying story. Bryce and Dev really do match up nicely and it was fun to watch them navigate various obstacles to reach a well-deserved happy ending.
July 18, 2024
B.J. Irons is a new author to me and I discovered the book via GRR.
It's hard to decide whether I think its a 3 or a 5 star read so I've settled on 4. The story I loved and the characters were well developed and their connection was also genuine. It even says in the book its a cute MM version of You've got male with a big hotel chain vs a family owned Inn.
However, what I didn't like (and this is completely personal) is how it was written; it felt quite "verbose" and "too descriptive" almost like a "scene" for a movie/theatre ; comes in/sits down/takes a tip of the coffee etc. While I liked how descriptive the author is it was a bit too much at times and completely took away from enjoying the spicier bits as it was "skimmed over" so I ended up skimming quite a lot of bits over myself. It's also 3rd person POV and dual POV so there is that (also not my favourite).
Overall I really enjoyed it and stayed up til 3 am to read it so.. if you are as confused after reading this as I am - maybe take a chance on it :)
It's hard to decide whether I think its a 3 or a 5 star read so I've settled on 4. The story I loved and the characters were well developed and their connection was also genuine. It even says in the book its a cute MM version of You've got male with a big hotel chain vs a family owned Inn.
However, what I didn't like (and this is completely personal) is how it was written; it felt quite "verbose" and "too descriptive" almost like a "scene" for a movie/theatre ; comes in/sits down/takes a tip of the coffee etc. While I liked how descriptive the author is it was a bit too much at times and completely took away from enjoying the spicier bits as it was "skimmed over" so I ended up skimming quite a lot of bits over myself. It's also 3rd person POV and dual POV so there is that (also not my favourite).
Overall I really enjoyed it and stayed up til 3 am to read it so.. if you are as confused after reading this as I am - maybe take a chance on it :)
July 28, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and author for the ARC of this book. The writing of this book was well done. I enjoyed the writing style and it was easy to follow. We follow Dev and Bryce in the modern day retelling of you’ve got mail. I love a good romcom and I love a gay romcom even more so when I read that this was similar to you’ve got mail I immediately requested this book.
However this fell flat for me. I didn’t feel that the chemistry was really there for these two. They both kept saying other people and Dev is intimate with other people and I didn’t like that. When they finally do get together it felt very rushed. They were fighting then the next thing you know they are saying I love you and it was over in about 20 pages.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
However this fell flat for me. I didn’t feel that the chemistry was really there for these two. They both kept saying other people and Dev is intimate with other people and I didn’t like that. When they finally do get together it felt very rushed. They were fighting then the next thing you know they are saying I love you and it was over in about 20 pages.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2024
A YOU’VE GOT MAIL ROMCOM!💕
This was an engaging read that bordered on the modern take on You’ve Got Mail theme with lots of laughs, banter and heartwarming moments!
Two guys meet online under different user names and find a connection that spans a year until one moves to Rehoboth to manage a boutique hotel and the other runs his family Inn… in Rehoboth..
Both in the hospitality industry and both artists in their own right and on two separate apps with two separate screen personas but unfortunately IRL they are opposing, scheming enemies although their hotels differs from each other… and they both want a serious relationship…
Perhaps they can come to a compromise but unfortunately that is not the case so join them in their journey as they navigate betrayals, awkward dates, potential hookups and family obligations to reach their final destination… each other!
I love both these authors writing styles and together they make a great collaborative team!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was an engaging read that bordered on the modern take on You’ve Got Mail theme with lots of laughs, banter and heartwarming moments!
Two guys meet online under different user names and find a connection that spans a year until one moves to Rehoboth to manage a boutique hotel and the other runs his family Inn… in Rehoboth..
Both in the hospitality industry and both artists in their own right and on two separate apps with two separate screen personas but unfortunately IRL they are opposing, scheming enemies although their hotels differs from each other… and they both want a serious relationship…
Perhaps they can come to a compromise but unfortunately that is not the case so join them in their journey as they navigate betrayals, awkward dates, potential hookups and family obligations to reach their final destination… each other!
I love both these authors writing styles and together they make a great collaborative team!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2024
Dela-where?, Irish Exit, needle in the gaystack, pint-sized aeronauts, Diego's Bar & Nightclub
Lots of cuteness. Lots of drama. Lots of beautiful scenery and imagery. Great cast of characters.
Yep, that's all in this story featuring Dev and Bryce. They make a darling couple after some bumps on their road to love. The story feels like a distant cousin of the movie, "You've Got Mail", and Whitney, Bryce's sister keeps making reference to it.
I enjoyed this very much; I can't believe I read this so quickly. Not because it's short (it's not), but because it's that awesomely written. Will Freshwater is easily one of my favorite authors. The books of his that I've read, are all well-written. I passionately recommend this book!
Lots of cuteness. Lots of drama. Lots of beautiful scenery and imagery. Great cast of characters.
Yep, that's all in this story featuring Dev and Bryce. They make a darling couple after some bumps on their road to love. The story feels like a distant cousin of the movie, "You've Got Mail", and Whitney, Bryce's sister keeps making reference to it.
I enjoyed this very much; I can't believe I read this so quickly. Not because it's short (it's not), but because it's that awesomely written. Will Freshwater is easily one of my favorite authors. The books of his that I've read, are all well-written. I passionately recommend this book!
July 20, 2024
While this book took a bit for me to get into, I am so glad as I did as it was a fun read. It is fun, low angst, and the kind of book where you can grab a glass of wine sitting outside and laugh as these two opposites engage in some frivolity. Of course they are opposites, Dev has lived his entire life in Rehoboth Beach running his family's Inn while searching for Mr. Perfect. Bryce is the corporate type who can have any man he wants who suddenly appears in town to run the new hotel that is being build and will impact Dev's business. And both also flirty online with someone that might be closer than they think. This book left me with a smile on my face and my heart full. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
July 21, 2024
This was a really good enemies-to-lovers, sweet, and fun read about Dev and Bryce. While it took a bit for me to get into, I’m glad I did—it turned out to be an enjoyable and well-written story.
Dev has spent his life in Rehoboth Beach running his family's inn, while Bryce, a corporate type who can have any man he wants, comes to town to run a new hotel that threatens Dev's business. Despite their differences, their flirty online interactions reveal a surprising connection.
Their playful banter and evolving relationship left me with a smile on my face and my heart full. It's the perfect relaxing read, this book is light, low-angst, and thoroughly entertaining.
Dev has spent his life in Rehoboth Beach running his family's inn, while Bryce, a corporate type who can have any man he wants, comes to town to run a new hotel that threatens Dev's business. Despite their differences, their flirty online interactions reveal a surprising connection.
Their playful banter and evolving relationship left me with a smile on my face and my heart full. It's the perfect relaxing read, this book is light, low-angst, and thoroughly entertaining.
July 8, 2024
This book truly was amazing. If you are looking for a cute, small town, spicy romance, this book is the way to go! We learn so much about the character life’s and how much art means to both of them. Bryce’s love for his sister, niece & nephew was so heartwarming. “the only way to regain control was to let go, even if just for a moment”. The way the character worked together in their characteristics and hobbies, interests and chemistry tied the book all together in the perfect bow.
*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 12, 2024
I had fun reading this book. The plot was interesting as Dev gets the idea that he has two suitors where they are the same guy. It is too easy the Bryce gets moved to Rehoboth Beach to run a modern high-end resort right across the street from Dev's Inn.
The portrayal of the Company building the new hotel by the lawyer and Dev using the information lead to a small lake on way towards a HRA conclusion. I did not see enough to resemble You've got Mail even though others see a connection.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The portrayal of the Company building the new hotel by the lawyer and Dev using the information lead to a small lake on way towards a HRA conclusion. I did not see enough to resemble You've got Mail even though others see a connection.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 28, 2024
You've got the lovely inn threatened by a posh hotel about to be built nearby, the innkeeper/artist who suddenly connects with a handsome charming stranger in person and an equally intriguing photographer online - an embarrassment of romantic possibilities Dev hasn't experienced before. When Bryce the playboy shows up to manage the hotel plans and he and Dev are officially introduced you can guess the romantic complications about to ensue. Loved the characters, the setting and the plot of this one and eagerly await more in the series.
November 3, 2024
2.5⭐️
This was kind of hit or miss for me. The story has a good sense of fun, and I really enjoyed the setting - Rehoboth Beach is very vibrant and full of quirky charm. I did have trouble connecting with the romance between Dev and Bryce, I think because I unfortunately did find either of them likable. Their dialogue also did not read authentic to me, it was a little juvenile. I did like the take on the rom com classic, which was a great use of the Dev’s resort.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This was kind of hit or miss for me. The story has a good sense of fun, and I really enjoyed the setting - Rehoboth Beach is very vibrant and full of quirky charm. I did have trouble connecting with the romance between Dev and Bryce, I think because I unfortunately did find either of them likable. Their dialogue also did not read authentic to me, it was a little juvenile. I did like the take on the rom com classic, which was a great use of the Dev’s resort.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
July 21, 2024
I tried to like this more than I did but I just couldn't. I rlcoupdnt really get into the characters and the way the writing flowed just was all over the place. There were scenes that were soooooo descriptive that weren't necessary and then I felt there were scenes that should have been more descriptive that weren't. Just meh 😕
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