What do you think?
Rate this book
Swallow Cove #3
Knockin' Boats
Sawyer
There was a time Ash and I were unseparable.
When I moved high schools, we went from friends to rivals. I could deal with that. But when my girlfriend dropped me for him? We became enemies overnight.
The Ozarks is a big lake, but somehow he's always in my way. First at a flashy rival boat company, where we're always knockin' boats on booze cruises. Sometimes literally.
Now at the newly redeveloped Swallow Cove resort where I'm based.
Ash has got some hair-brained idea to run a food boat for the resort. It's a silly fad that will never last. All flash and no substance, like him.
But now there's no avoiding the guy. Or his annoying face and annoying hair and annoying smiles always flashing my way.
Ash has always gotten whatever he wanted. My sports trophies. My ex-girlfriend. A job with *my* friends.
As tension mounts between us and the heat of anger threatens to boil over into something else, something new and surprising, I start to
Will he get me too?
There was a time Ash and I were unseparable.
When I moved high schools, we went from friends to rivals. I could deal with that. But when my girlfriend dropped me for him? We became enemies overnight.
The Ozarks is a big lake, but somehow he's always in my way. First at a flashy rival boat company, where we're always knockin' boats on booze cruises. Sometimes literally.
Now at the newly redeveloped Swallow Cove resort where I'm based.
Ash has got some hair-brained idea to run a food boat for the resort. It's a silly fad that will never last. All flash and no substance, like him.
But now there's no avoiding the guy. Or his annoying face and annoying hair and annoying smiles always flashing my way.
Ash has always gotten whatever he wanted. My sports trophies. My ex-girlfriend. A job with *my* friends.
As tension mounts between us and the heat of anger threatens to boil over into something else, something new and surprising, I start to
Will he get me too?
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2024
184 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Jamison
83 books1,003 followersDJ Jamison writes a variety of queer men finding extraordinary love through M/M Romance! She is a lifelong reader and has always loved writing and editing, with a ten-year journalism career before she began publishing romance. She has books in ebook, print, and audio, as well as German, French, and Italian translations.
DJ lives in Kansas with her husband, two sons, and a sadistic cat named Birdie.
Join DJ's mailing list at http://tinyurl.com/DJandCompany
Join her FB group at www.facebook.com/groups/DJandCompany
Follow her on Ko-Fi for bonus content: www.ko-fi.com/ReadingDJ
DJ lives in Kansas with her husband, two sons, and a sadistic cat named Birdie.
Join DJ's mailing list at http://tinyurl.com/DJandCompany
Join her FB group at www.facebook.com/groups/DJandCompany
Follow her on Ko-Fi for bonus content: www.ko-fi.com/ReadingDJ
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
October 9, 2024
Easily my favourite book in this series so far! Enemies to lovers is like catnip to me, so as soon as Sawyer's hate for Ash was mentioned in this series I was ridiculously excited for them to get a book!
These two started as childhood best friends and turned into enemies and rivals after Sawyer has a traumatic family experience and Ash breaks bro code. I loved the animosity between these guys and how it's been building over multiple books, their chemistry was really good and I could honestly read so much more about them.
I loved the idea of the food boat even though I'm terrified of open water 😂 I also really like how Sawyer and Ash spend almost their entire lives out on the water because I don't recall ever reading anything in this kind of location before this series.
The found family were amazing as always, I love how they're just so supportive but they also get their friends to face reality. I'm now dying to get Cash's book because his antagonising antics towards Declan have had me curious since book one!
Also loved the tie ins to both Granville and Christmas Falls - I do love when an author has an entire story universe!!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow, and this is my honest review
These two started as childhood best friends and turned into enemies and rivals after Sawyer has a traumatic family experience and Ash breaks bro code. I loved the animosity between these guys and how it's been building over multiple books, their chemistry was really good and I could honestly read so much more about them.
I loved the idea of the food boat even though I'm terrified of open water 😂 I also really like how Sawyer and Ash spend almost their entire lives out on the water because I don't recall ever reading anything in this kind of location before this series.
The found family were amazing as always, I love how they're just so supportive but they also get their friends to face reality. I'm now dying to get Cash's book because his antagonising antics towards Declan have had me curious since book one!
Also loved the tie ins to both Granville and Christmas Falls - I do love when an author has an entire story universe!!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow, and this is my honest review
October 19, 2024
Tropes: friends to enemies to lovers, bi-awakenings
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: some toys
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: bad parents, alcoholic minor character, boating accident while under the influence (not MMCs), some ex drama, business failures
3.75 Stars
Sawyer and Ash were best friends growing up. Sawyer's mom's restaurant failed when he was in his teens and they had to file for bankruptcy, and his dad left them. Sawyer had to move towns and schools and was distant from his friends. In the mix of this all, Sawyer broke up with his girlfriend Mel. Within 3 weeks of the breakup, Mel and Sawyer's best friend Ash hooked up. Sawyer saw it as a huge violation of bro code and it wrecked their fragile friendship. Ever since then whenever they interact, Ash riles Sawyer up and Sawyer's just very resentful of Ash because he seems to have it easy.
When their friendship imploded, I think they were between the ages of 15 and 18. It's not really specified. But it is mentioned that 10 years have passed since then, so they are probably age 25 to 28 or thereabouts.
Ash doesn't have it as easy as he thinks. Ash has a a****** stepfather who's been interfering with his life. Ash goes out on his own to open up a food boat business, which is essentially a food truck on the water in their coastal town. Ash's business, the resort, and Sawyer's water boat business that he works for are kind of interrelated / interdependent. Sawyer reluctantly ends up helping out Ash at times and they aggravate each other. A kiss to shut the other guy up turns into more and they start hooking up. Neither had been with a guy before. Spending time together reminds them that they do actually like each other, the other person is actually a good person, so hooking up turns into feelings.
This is a nice enough low angst book. There was some good sexual tension between Sawyer and Ash and it is believable when their relationship turns into more, there's a lot of caring between them. They fit together well. There was some decent conflict developed as they struggle with various things. It was nice to see Rick get his just desserts.
I wasn't a huge fan of the drama surrounding their mutual ex Mel for various reasons. It just seemed so long ago for it to be mentioned as much as it was. And it's not like Ash and Mel hooked up while Sawyer was still with Mel. Not that Ash should have got involved. But these guys are almost 30 years old and they're still angsting over dumb teenage stuff. Also, Mel is very involved in their lives in the present, because she's been Ash's best friend for the last 10 years. So there's some jealousy and insecurity around Mel's continued involvement in Ash's life. I just wasn't a huge fan of all the plot focus that related to Mel, it was just a bit much.
Some notable moments:
"“Because we’re friends.” “Friends,” he scoffed. “Right. Like we were friends? Just like that, huh? Because you kiss all your friends.” “Maybe I do.” He laughed. “I don’t remember you ever fucking kissing me.” “Yeah? Well, maybe I should.” “Wha—” Before the thought had fully formed, I surged forward and pressed a hard kiss to his mouth. For as angry as he was, his lips were surprisingly soft under mine."
The kiss with Cash while their friends are all gossiping "“Maybe I want to kiss a guy and know what the fuck I want too, man. It’s not that easy.” “Sure it is, Sawyer. If I kissed you right now, you’d know.” “No, I wouldn’t.” “No?” He raised one dark eyebrow. “Then kiss me, bro. Kiss me and find out.” “What is happening right now?” Poppy murmured. “I don’t know, but I need popcorn,” Fisher muttered."
Shua and their pet turtle were cute. "“Can Raph stay here? Our camper is all blocked out underneath, and I want them to feel cozy.” “Uh, sure,” Sawyer said. “But they’re not a pet.” I wasn’t so sure about that. The turtle seemed to be accepting its fate as Shua petted its shell and told it goodnight."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: some toys
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: bad parents, alcoholic minor character, boating accident while under the influence (not MMCs), some ex drama, business failures
3.75 Stars
Sawyer and Ash were best friends growing up. Sawyer's mom's restaurant failed when he was in his teens and they had to file for bankruptcy, and his dad left them. Sawyer had to move towns and schools and was distant from his friends. In the mix of this all, Sawyer broke up with his girlfriend Mel. Within 3 weeks of the breakup, Mel and Sawyer's best friend Ash hooked up. Sawyer saw it as a huge violation of bro code and it wrecked their fragile friendship. Ever since then whenever they interact, Ash riles Sawyer up and Sawyer's just very resentful of Ash because he seems to have it easy.
When their friendship imploded, I think they were between the ages of 15 and 18. It's not really specified. But it is mentioned that 10 years have passed since then, so they are probably age 25 to 28 or thereabouts.
Ash doesn't have it as easy as he thinks. Ash has a a****** stepfather who's been interfering with his life. Ash goes out on his own to open up a food boat business, which is essentially a food truck on the water in their coastal town. Ash's business, the resort, and Sawyer's water boat business that he works for are kind of interrelated / interdependent. Sawyer reluctantly ends up helping out Ash at times and they aggravate each other. A kiss to shut the other guy up turns into more and they start hooking up. Neither had been with a guy before. Spending time together reminds them that they do actually like each other, the other person is actually a good person, so hooking up turns into feelings.
This is a nice enough low angst book. There was some good sexual tension between Sawyer and Ash and it is believable when their relationship turns into more, there's a lot of caring between them. They fit together well. There was some decent conflict developed as they struggle with various things. It was nice to see Rick get his just desserts.
I wasn't a huge fan of the drama surrounding their mutual ex Mel for various reasons. It just seemed so long ago for it to be mentioned as much as it was. And it's not like Ash and Mel hooked up while Sawyer was still with Mel. Not that Ash should have got involved. But these guys are almost 30 years old and they're still angsting over dumb teenage stuff. Also, Mel is very involved in their lives in the present, because she's been Ash's best friend for the last 10 years. So there's some jealousy and insecurity around Mel's continued involvement in Ash's life. I just wasn't a huge fan of all the plot focus that related to Mel, it was just a bit much.
Some notable moments:
"“Because we’re friends.” “Friends,” he scoffed. “Right. Like we were friends? Just like that, huh? Because you kiss all your friends.” “Maybe I do.” He laughed. “I don’t remember you ever fucking kissing me.” “Yeah? Well, maybe I should.” “Wha—” Before the thought had fully formed, I surged forward and pressed a hard kiss to his mouth. For as angry as he was, his lips were surprisingly soft under mine."
The kiss with Cash while their friends are all gossiping "“Maybe I want to kiss a guy and know what the fuck I want too, man. It’s not that easy.” “Sure it is, Sawyer. If I kissed you right now, you’d know.” “No, I wouldn’t.” “No?” He raised one dark eyebrow. “Then kiss me, bro. Kiss me and find out.” “What is happening right now?” Poppy murmured. “I don’t know, but I need popcorn,” Fisher muttered."
Shua and their pet turtle were cute. "“Can Raph stay here? Our camper is all blocked out underneath, and I want them to feel cozy.” “Uh, sure,” Sawyer said. “But they’re not a pet.” I wasn’t so sure about that. The turtle seemed to be accepting its fate as Shua petted its shell and told it goodnight."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2024
3.5 stars
I love this series, the characters and the town really have my heart. Unfortunately this book was not my favorite. It just felt off from the beginning. I didn’t feel like the relationship between Ash and Sawyer developed as naturally as the relationships had in the previous books.
The protagonist in this story is Ash’s stepdad. That storyline was weak to me and I wasn’t satisfied with the way it was resolved. He felt like a caricature and I wish there was a more compelling villain or that he was more than just a big bully. Plus Ash’s mom was flaky.
I did love Ash and Sawyer though, I just feel like their romance was lacking something. I cannot put my finger on exactly what was missing. It’s driving me crazy but I became bored with them. The food boat was awesome and I loved seeing all of Sawyer’s friends. Shua, Sawyer’s neighbor was such a great character and I loved everytime they were present.
I am definitely excited for Cash and Declan’s story. I hope for a grittier storyline with the older Declan and playboy Cash.
ARC received for review
I love this series, the characters and the town really have my heart. Unfortunately this book was not my favorite. It just felt off from the beginning. I didn’t feel like the relationship between Ash and Sawyer developed as naturally as the relationships had in the previous books.
The protagonist in this story is Ash’s stepdad. That storyline was weak to me and I wasn’t satisfied with the way it was resolved. He felt like a caricature and I wish there was a more compelling villain or that he was more than just a big bully. Plus Ash’s mom was flaky.
I did love Ash and Sawyer though, I just feel like their romance was lacking something. I cannot put my finger on exactly what was missing. It’s driving me crazy but I became bored with them. The food boat was awesome and I loved seeing all of Sawyer’s friends. Shua, Sawyer’s neighbor was such a great character and I loved everytime they were present.
I am definitely excited for Cash and Declan’s story. I hope for a grittier storyline with the older Declan and playboy Cash.
ARC received for review
September 17, 2025
I’ve said it before and I’ll probably say it again, I’m a big fan of DJ Jamison. I love her books, and I love the way she writes. This was a great enemies to lovers story. I have to admit the way these two got together was a little far fetched, but that didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book. This was my first book in the series and I noticed some other reviewers mentioned that the animosity was building between Sawyer and Ash from previous books. I’m sure I’ll eventually read them all. This is a sweet low angst book with enough going on to keep one entertained.
October 20, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: forced proximity, sexual discovery, small town
I'm growing really fond of this found family, and Knockin' Boats was a sweet addition to the Swallow Cove series!
Ash and Sawyer had a lot of history between them, from childhood best friends to rivals with having quite a bit of animosity going on. When they end up working at the same resort and in close proximity, they soon realise that the line between hate and love is thin - and that sometimes the best way to get someone to shut up is to kiss them...
They definitely had some hot chemistry going on, and there were a lot of feelings coming to the surface considering their history. Neither of them had been with a guy before, so they had some things to process and come to terms with once they acknowledged the attraction between them. Their romance was overall sweet and low angst though, and I liked how there were some lowkey jealousy and possessiveness going on.
Knockin' Boats was a sweet and entertaining read, with characters that might have been crushing on each other for quite a long time without realising it. I liked their relationship development and how the friend group quickly adopted Ash into their little found family. I can't wait to go back to Swallow Cove for Cash and Declan's story, I'm very intrigued about those two and whatever is going on between them!
-
Thanks to Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: forced proximity, sexual discovery, small town
I'm growing really fond of this found family, and Knockin' Boats was a sweet addition to the Swallow Cove series!
Ash and Sawyer had a lot of history between them, from childhood best friends to rivals with having quite a bit of animosity going on. When they end up working at the same resort and in close proximity, they soon realise that the line between hate and love is thin - and that sometimes the best way to get someone to shut up is to kiss them...
They definitely had some hot chemistry going on, and there were a lot of feelings coming to the surface considering their history. Neither of them had been with a guy before, so they had some things to process and come to terms with once they acknowledged the attraction between them. Their romance was overall sweet and low angst though, and I liked how there were some lowkey jealousy and possessiveness going on.
Knockin' Boats was a sweet and entertaining read, with characters that might have been crushing on each other for quite a long time without realising it. I liked their relationship development and how the friend group quickly adopted Ash into their little found family. I can't wait to go back to Swallow Cove for Cash and Declan's story, I'm very intrigued about those two and whatever is going on between them!
-
Thanks to Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
June 24, 2025
Best Friends to Enemies, can it get better.?
I’d been looking forward to Sawyer and Ashton’s book and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Plenty of steamy sessions in very cramped quarters, in the water and in the tiny RV. Plus there is some angsty shenanigans just to add a different level of excitement to the story.
Loving being able to keep in touch with the BFF from previous books too and noticing the new husbands❤️🥰.
What is going to happen with the poor much maligned Cash, will his persistence pay off, will he manage to break down the walls round his hearts desire? I’m off to find out now that I’ve finished reading Sawyer and Ashton. So far those two are my favourite pairings in this series, so much chemistry and passion. That was a surprise, Cash needs to up the ante if he wants to oust them from my heart.
I’d been looking forward to Sawyer and Ashton’s book and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Plenty of steamy sessions in very cramped quarters, in the water and in the tiny RV. Plus there is some angsty shenanigans just to add a different level of excitement to the story.
Loving being able to keep in touch with the BFF from previous books too and noticing the new husbands❤️🥰.
What is going to happen with the poor much maligned Cash, will his persistence pay off, will he manage to break down the walls round his hearts desire? I’m off to find out now that I’ve finished reading Sawyer and Ashton. So far those two are my favourite pairings in this series, so much chemistry and passion. That was a surprise, Cash needs to up the ante if he wants to oust them from my heart.
October 22, 2024
Genre: MM Contemporary Romance
Steamy?: Yes
Cliffhanger?: Just one for one of the supporting characters
Format: E-book
Can be read as Standalone?: Yes, but highly recommend reading the preceding books first.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars
***THANK YOU TO the author FOR MY COMPLIMENTARY REVIEW COPY. ALL OPINIONS AND THOUGHTS ARE MY OWN***
This was a satisfying addition to the Swallow Cove series. I wasn’t totally sold on the reason for the rift between the main characters (it didn't seem worthy of that much animosity) but I let it slide and just tried to enjoy the romantic journey, which I did. I also felt the conflicts were a bit underdeveloped and were treated as more of an obligatory part of the storyline. But I overall enjoyed the story and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Steamy?: Yes
Cliffhanger?: Just one for one of the supporting characters
Format: E-book
Can be read as Standalone?: Yes, but highly recommend reading the preceding books first.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars
***THANK YOU TO the author FOR MY COMPLIMENTARY REVIEW COPY. ALL OPINIONS AND THOUGHTS ARE MY OWN***
This was a satisfying addition to the Swallow Cove series. I wasn’t totally sold on the reason for the rift between the main characters (it didn't seem worthy of that much animosity) but I let it slide and just tried to enjoy the romantic journey, which I did. I also felt the conflicts were a bit underdeveloped and were treated as more of an obligatory part of the storyline. But I overall enjoyed the story and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 12, 2025
5 delightful stars!
RTF soon...
RTF soon...
October 9, 2024
I have been so excited to read Sawyer and Ash’s story and it did not disappoint! We’ve known there has been tension and history between these two. Sawyer and Ash were best friends growing up. Inseparable. But when Sawyer’s parents were going through a divorce and they moved across the lake, he left behind his best friend. And when he learned that Ash hooked up with his ex girlfriend soon after? Well things were never the same. They became rivals and it carried them throughout until now. Sawyer is still angry and holding a grudge. All Ash wants to do is clear the air. He has missed his best friend. He knows he has to apologize and really talk to Sawyer. Explain more than what has appeared throughout the years. They lost a lot of time and things on both sides aren’t what they appear. When Ash sets up his new food boat on the lake and Sawyer is asked to help Ash, well it’s finally time to hash things out. Though neither expected the chemistry and kisses to result from it. Now it has them rethinking everything they had ever felt about one another. I loved this enemies to lovers stories. These two are definitely a favorite of mine. I loved how they slowly transitioned from ex best friends back to friends and something more. It is clear how much they loved one another and how that love never actually went away and was the start of something more if they were given the chance to find out before they became rivals. Overall a great story that I just couldn’t put down! And as always, I am looking forward to the next one!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2024
When you have friends like this you don’t even need a nemesis because what do you mean you hate a person who hurt you badly and your so called friends force you to spent time with him and even work for him?!?
So no loyalty among this „tight-knit“ friendship group, got it. And no respect for boundaries.
So no loyalty among this „tight-knit“ friendship group, got it. And no respect for boundaries.
October 12, 2024
4.5 ⭐
Knockin' Boats is the third book in the Swallow Cove series, and it’s another enjoyable, low-angst story. This time we dive into Ash and Sawyer's story, with a double bi-awakening, second chances and a journey from ex-best friends to rivals to lovers. The story is full of delicious tension and undeniable chemistry.
Ash and Sawyer started out as childhood best friends, but after a rough patch in Sawyer’s life and Ash’s betrayal of trust, things got messy and they ended up as rivals. I really loved the slow build of their animosity over the previous books, because it made their enemies-to-lovers story feel so much more real. I also loved how the transition from ex-best friends/rivals to lovers is done gradually. It allowed the characters to see that they still share their deep bond and friendship that was now evolving into something even stronger.
One of my favourite parts of this book was the food boat setting. It’s really such a fun idea and the descriptions of the food were seriously mouth-watering.
As always in Jamison’s books, the found family aspect of the story is strong. I loved seeing the friend group rally around each other, being supportive but they’re not afraid to dish out some tough love and a reality check when needed.
It’s also fun to see little nods to characters and locations from Granville and Christmas Falls. It will make long-time readers smile, but I also think it will make it easy to follow for anyone new to Jamison’s books. Also Jamison’s signature snarky humour is spot-on and adds a lot of fun to the story even when things get a bit more serious.
Knockin' Boats has just the right mix of humour, emotion and romance to keep you interested from start to finish.
It was lovely to revisit the Swallow Cove crew, and I’m looking forward to return to them in Cash and Declan’s book.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
Knockin' Boats is the third book in the Swallow Cove series, and it’s another enjoyable, low-angst story. This time we dive into Ash and Sawyer's story, with a double bi-awakening, second chances and a journey from ex-best friends to rivals to lovers. The story is full of delicious tension and undeniable chemistry.
Ash and Sawyer started out as childhood best friends, but after a rough patch in Sawyer’s life and Ash’s betrayal of trust, things got messy and they ended up as rivals. I really loved the slow build of their animosity over the previous books, because it made their enemies-to-lovers story feel so much more real. I also loved how the transition from ex-best friends/rivals to lovers is done gradually. It allowed the characters to see that they still share their deep bond and friendship that was now evolving into something even stronger.
One of my favourite parts of this book was the food boat setting. It’s really such a fun idea and the descriptions of the food were seriously mouth-watering.
As always in Jamison’s books, the found family aspect of the story is strong. I loved seeing the friend group rally around each other, being supportive but they’re not afraid to dish out some tough love and a reality check when needed.
It’s also fun to see little nods to characters and locations from Granville and Christmas Falls. It will make long-time readers smile, but I also think it will make it easy to follow for anyone new to Jamison’s books. Also Jamison’s signature snarky humour is spot-on and adds a lot of fun to the story even when things get a bit more serious.
Knockin' Boats has just the right mix of humour, emotion and romance to keep you interested from start to finish.
It was lovely to revisit the Swallow Cove crew, and I’m looking forward to return to them in Cash and Declan’s book.
I received a copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
October 21, 2024
***ARC Review**
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
Sawyer and Ash are former best friends and current enemies. There is a ton of tension between them and it steadily builds and builds until one day, they just snap. And things take a heated turn. What’s a kiss between ex-best friends who both consider themselves straight?
The push/pull vibe between Sawyer and Ash has a lot of the regulars in Swallow Cove on edge. The feud between them is raw and grating. Ash made a major mistake in the past and Sawyer hasn’t been able to move past it. Sawyer also has some negative assumptions that he makes about Ash; while Ash is dealing with more than meets the eye when it comes to his terrible step-dad, Rick. (That guy is a real d-bag). When a situation arises that forces Ash and Sawyer to work together for a spell, it’s time for both men to face their past, present, and future.
I appreciated the rough and honest conversations between the two MCs. It’s clear that they have a lot of feelings to work through. This book features a double bi-awakening (though Ash later voices that he might be pan) that makes both men come to terms with the old (and newfound) feelings they have for one another.
Once Ash and Sawyer embark on a physical relationship, they still manage to push one another’s buttons. These two have off the charts chemistry; they’re perfect for each other. I especially like how they finally come to terms with how much they care about the other. Jamison establishes them as a forever couple and it’s really sweet. I loved seeing Skylar, Brooks, Cash, and Poppy again.
I’m so looking forward to Cash and Declan’s story - up next in the series!
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
Sawyer and Ash are former best friends and current enemies. There is a ton of tension between them and it steadily builds and builds until one day, they just snap. And things take a heated turn. What’s a kiss between ex-best friends who both consider themselves straight?
The push/pull vibe between Sawyer and Ash has a lot of the regulars in Swallow Cove on edge. The feud between them is raw and grating. Ash made a major mistake in the past and Sawyer hasn’t been able to move past it. Sawyer also has some negative assumptions that he makes about Ash; while Ash is dealing with more than meets the eye when it comes to his terrible step-dad, Rick. (That guy is a real d-bag). When a situation arises that forces Ash and Sawyer to work together for a spell, it’s time for both men to face their past, present, and future.
I appreciated the rough and honest conversations between the two MCs. It’s clear that they have a lot of feelings to work through. This book features a double bi-awakening (though Ash later voices that he might be pan) that makes both men come to terms with the old (and newfound) feelings they have for one another.
Once Ash and Sawyer embark on a physical relationship, they still manage to push one another’s buttons. These two have off the charts chemistry; they’re perfect for each other. I especially like how they finally come to terms with how much they care about the other. Jamison establishes them as a forever couple and it’s really sweet. I loved seeing Skylar, Brooks, Cash, and Poppy again.
I’m so looking forward to Cash and Declan’s story - up next in the series!
October 17, 2024
My favorite Swallow Cove story so far! Sawyer and Ash have been teased as enemies for the past two books and this was their chance to fall in love.
Sawyer West has hated his ex-best friend Ashton Dixon since high school when Sawyer’s life imploded. Sawyer has been risk averse since then for many reasons, choosing safe options for his life whenever he can. Ash lives a life that looks perfect from the outside, but he’s been stifled by his stepfather time and time again and forced to look for backing elsewhere to make his food boat dreams come true. These two both know how to hold a grudge, something that comes out when they meet each other out on the water doing tours for different companies.
They used to be best friends and Sawyer is still holding a major grudge until they’re forced to work together on Ash’s food boat. The pull between them is too great and they finally give in to the physical, but also give each other a chance to clear the air. Once they talked it out, these two were unexpectedly sweet together with a little bit of a competitive edge between them to keep things interesting. Their relationship progression was realistic and fun to read even though some of the plot points were a bit obvious at points.
Enjoyed seeing all of the Swallow Cove crew again and I’m really looking forward to Cash and Declan’s book next!
Sawyer West has hated his ex-best friend Ashton Dixon since high school when Sawyer’s life imploded. Sawyer has been risk averse since then for many reasons, choosing safe options for his life whenever he can. Ash lives a life that looks perfect from the outside, but he’s been stifled by his stepfather time and time again and forced to look for backing elsewhere to make his food boat dreams come true. These two both know how to hold a grudge, something that comes out when they meet each other out on the water doing tours for different companies.
They used to be best friends and Sawyer is still holding a major grudge until they’re forced to work together on Ash’s food boat. The pull between them is too great and they finally give in to the physical, but also give each other a chance to clear the air. Once they talked it out, these two were unexpectedly sweet together with a little bit of a competitive edge between them to keep things interesting. Their relationship progression was realistic and fun to read even though some of the plot points were a bit obvious at points.
Enjoyed seeing all of the Swallow Cove crew again and I’m really looking forward to Cash and Declan’s book next!
October 17, 2024
"Knockin' Boats" is an absolutely captivating enemies-to-lovers bi-awakening story that had me hooked from the very first page. D.J. Jamison has once again delivered a heartwarming and engaging tale that had me eagerly turning the pages. The complex dynamic between Ash and Sawyer is perfectly portrayed, and their journey from rivalry to unexpected romance is both compelling and incredibly sweet.
The vividly depicted setting of Swallow Cove, with its quirky townsfolk and delightful (and nosy) found family, adds an extra layer of charm to the story. D.J. Jamison has once again brought this lively town to life, complete with its punny entendres and endearing atmosphere.
The storytelling and the palpable chemistry between the characters made this book such an enjoyable read! I found myself rooting for Ash and Sawyer's well-deserved happily ever after. I'm already waiting for the next installment in this series, eager to revisit the wacky and fun town of Swallow Cove. D.J. Jamison has once again proven why she's a master of heartwarming romance, and I can't recommend "Knockin' Boats" highly enough.
The vividly depicted setting of Swallow Cove, with its quirky townsfolk and delightful (and nosy) found family, adds an extra layer of charm to the story. D.J. Jamison has once again brought this lively town to life, complete with its punny entendres and endearing atmosphere.
The storytelling and the palpable chemistry between the characters made this book such an enjoyable read! I found myself rooting for Ash and Sawyer's well-deserved happily ever after. I'm already waiting for the next installment in this series, eager to revisit the wacky and fun town of Swallow Cove. D.J. Jamison has once again proven why she's a master of heartwarming romance, and I can't recommend "Knockin' Boats" highly enough.
Read
October 18, 2024Former besties turned enemies turned... well doesn't that just scream rom-com... as does the renaming of the food boat menu to include Nauti Fries and Ex-Squid-Side Bites.. but I digress. This was a sweet redemption story with a double bi-awakening, lots of kissing to shut the other person up and a chance to really embrace found family and accept that good things can happen when you share your thoughts and dreams.
I appreciated the pacing and detail in this story - although it revolved around Ash and Sawyer, we see the rest of the resort crew and so many other quirky town characters... including the weekend hookers and more.
While this book could be read standalone, I think you'd benefit from reading the books in order, particularly to understand the dynamics of the side characters and get a bit of a peek into Ash and Sawyer's feud.
I appreciated the pacing and detail in this story - although it revolved around Ash and Sawyer, we see the rest of the resort crew and so many other quirky town characters... including the weekend hookers and more.
While this book could be read standalone, I think you'd benefit from reading the books in order, particularly to understand the dynamics of the side characters and get a bit of a peek into Ash and Sawyer's feud.
October 16, 2024
This third book in the Swallow Cove series was worth the wait, perhaps even my favorite. The setup for Sawyer and Asher’s story was laid out well in the first two books and I loved how they came together.
From childhood best friends to enemies to lovers, the chemistry between these two was undeniable. DJ Jamison did a great job in making this progression seem quite natural, and unforced. It was the perfect mix of tension and sweet/spicy. Already counting the days until book 4!
Knockin’ Boats could be read as a standalone, but some of my favorite parts incorporated characters from the first two books. I recommend reading order if possible.
From childhood best friends to enemies to lovers, the chemistry between these two was undeniable. DJ Jamison did a great job in making this progression seem quite natural, and unforced. It was the perfect mix of tension and sweet/spicy. Already counting the days until book 4!
Knockin’ Boats could be read as a standalone, but some of my favorite parts incorporated characters from the first two books. I recommend reading order if possible.
October 16, 2024
This was a delight. Ash and Sawyer have that delightful push and pull of "I want you but I'm mad at you" and "I hurt you and your anger is my penace" that make for a great foundation for developing their relationship. And it blossoms in a lovely way. This is very much enemies to lovers, but made right
November 3, 2024
I haven’t read the other books in the series yet, I read this first and this is easily my favourite book in the series. Who knows maybe that might change when I read book 1 and 2.
I really enjoyed this. Loved the friends to enemies to friends with benefits to lovers trope.🤭🤭 The hate between Ash and Saw was honestly so good that it made each of their encounters very intense and crackling with chemistry and heat.
Love, love, every minute of this.❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
I really enjoyed this. Loved the friends to enemies to friends with benefits to lovers trope.🤭🤭 The hate between Ash and Saw was honestly so good that it made each of their encounters very intense and crackling with chemistry and heat.
Love, love, every minute of this.❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
November 3, 2024
This is the second book I've read in this series. I still need to read Fisher and Hudson's book but not having read that doesn't effect the enjoyment of the other two.
This one is friends to enemies to lovers and takes up just before the second book ends.
There's a lot of bad blood between Ash and Sawyer but that's really only on Sawyer's side, Ash, it turns out, is only pulling pigtails when he winds Sawyer up.
Fun, small town romance with an abundance of quirky characters.
This one is friends to enemies to lovers and takes up just before the second book ends.
There's a lot of bad blood between Ash and Sawyer but that's really only on Sawyer's side, Ash, it turns out, is only pulling pigtails when he winds Sawyer up.
Fun, small town romance with an abundance of quirky characters.
October 16, 2024
Knockin’ Boat’s by DJ Jamison is the 3rd Book in her Swallow Cove series. It is the story of two men who were childhood best friends turned enemies over a personal situation who, after many years, realized they never lost their love for each other. Sawyer West worked boat tours for Swallow Adventures on the Lake of the Ozarks. His boss, Hudson, had a lot of faith in him and left him in charge many times. He loved the lake, especially wake surfing and boarding in his spare time and was generally happy with his life. But Ash Dixon was a thorn in his side. He worked for Dreamboats, a party boat service on the lake and often taunted Sawyer when he saw him. The sad story here is that they grew up as best friends but life took a turn when Sawyer’s family lost their restaurant, his dad left, and they moved to Swallow Cove leaving Ash behind. Then Ash got involved with Sawyer’s ex, Mel, and that broke the bro code as far as Sawyer was concerned and they became enemies. Sawyer could never forgive Ash, even though he tried to make amends. Also, Sawyer thought Ash got everything handed to him on a silver platter because his stepfather, Rick, was rich. What he didn’t know was that he was that Rick was manipulative and controlling and kept wanting to drag Ash back into his business, even though it often was poorly run and didn’t give him anything. Ash’s real wish was to start a food boat on the lake as he was a great cook and then his dream came true as he was starting Master Bites and was working for the new resort where Sawyer’s mom was the head chef in the restaurant and would help Ash with providing space for him to prep. He also got the offer to stay in Hudson’s houseboat so he could get away from Rick. This meant that they would have a lot more contact which did not make Sawyer happy, especially when he was assigned to help Ash for a week after seeing he was struggling by himself. They argue a lot during this time and then they figure out the way to stop it is to kiss, which they do quite often. And even though they are straight they both like it. The more they get to know each other again and spend time together, Sawyer realizes he won’t forget what happened but wants to move forward and be friends. This also leads to some experimenting and having some hot love scenes. Meanwhile life continues on the lake with their friends and them noticing what they are together before they realize it themselves. Then there is an accident, Rick starts causing problems for both Sawyer and Ash not only with that accident but with the food boat, and their family and friends come to the rescue leading them to declare their love for each other. I really enjoyed this book. Sawyer was a strong character who couldn’t figure out why Ash had betrayed him and it took a long time for him to understand and to forgive him. Ash knew he was stupid at the time and was very sad that he lost his best friend and couldn’t find a way to make it up to him and get him back. Their friends and family at the lake play a huge part in the story from being their boss, helping them out, and adding some humor at times. The biggest thing is that they are all family and they do what needs to be done to be together. You will also be glad that Rick gets what is coming to him. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like slow burn enemies to lovers stories between two men who have both been hurt but find their way back to each other and to the love they always had.
October 19, 2024
D J Jamison writes some of my favorite small town romances, and Ash and Sawyer's ex-best friends to lovers story was another engaging and entertaining read. Ash's betrayal of Sawyer back in high school stung deeply, and Sawyer held onto his anger and used it as a reason to avoid anything and everything to do with the man. When Ash decided to quit his stepdad's DreamBoats company and launch a food boat with Swallow Adventures, the two of them were forced back into each other's orbits and avoidance was no longer an option for keeping the peace. After reading from Ash's perspective and seeing how genuine he was about wanting his best friend back, it was hard for me not to root for him to convince Sawyer he wanted to move on from the mistakes from their past. Sawyer put up a valiant effort to stay closed-off and angry, but being trapped on a tiny boat together for a week straight made it impossible to ignore each other. I felt Ash's frustration with himself every time he wound Sawyer up, and their unexpectedly hot way of shutting each other up with kisses left me curious about whether there had been a latent attraction between them for a lot longer than they'd realized.
For a guy who claimed to hate Ash, Sawyer sure did have a playful and natural chemistry with him, and I was thrilled to see him start letting go of some of his bitter emotions and listening to what Ash wanted to share. Sawyer initially struggled with the concept of redefining his sexuality, but as he and Ash began exploring their attraction to each other it was impossible to deny that everything building between them felt good and right. I adored how sweet and steamy their time together was, and they were all-in on their relationship surprisingly fast given how much they'd initially resisted. In terms of their individual character growth, outside of the obvious reconciliation with Ash, Sawyer also was able to move past his fear of investing all of himself in his career after seeing things fall apart for his mom and dad's business, and that led him to a partnership with Swallow Adventures that felt perfect for the things he enjoyed most. Ash's storyline was heavily focused on the conflict between him and his stepdad with his mom stuck in the middle, and while I was pleased to see Ash establish himself independent from anyone else, I hated that he was right about how scummy and ill-intentioned Rick was in the end. All in all, I thought this book struck a great balance between the individual character growth, romantic relationship, and overall plotline resolution. I stayed engaged from start to finish and found it easy to root for both Ash and Sawyer to succeed, and it was pretty dang sweet to see how loved-up and couple-y they were at the end of the story.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
For a guy who claimed to hate Ash, Sawyer sure did have a playful and natural chemistry with him, and I was thrilled to see him start letting go of some of his bitter emotions and listening to what Ash wanted to share. Sawyer initially struggled with the concept of redefining his sexuality, but as he and Ash began exploring their attraction to each other it was impossible to deny that everything building between them felt good and right. I adored how sweet and steamy their time together was, and they were all-in on their relationship surprisingly fast given how much they'd initially resisted. In terms of their individual character growth, outside of the obvious reconciliation with Ash, Sawyer also was able to move past his fear of investing all of himself in his career after seeing things fall apart for his mom and dad's business, and that led him to a partnership with Swallow Adventures that felt perfect for the things he enjoyed most. Ash's storyline was heavily focused on the conflict between him and his stepdad with his mom stuck in the middle, and while I was pleased to see Ash establish himself independent from anyone else, I hated that he was right about how scummy and ill-intentioned Rick was in the end. All in all, I thought this book struck a great balance between the individual character growth, romantic relationship, and overall plotline resolution. I stayed engaged from start to finish and found it easy to root for both Ash and Sawyer to succeed, and it was pretty dang sweet to see how loved-up and couple-y they were at the end of the story.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
January 8, 2025
Here is D.J. Jamison's latest and highly anticipated "Knockin' Boats." It's the third novel in the new Swallow Cove series.
["Sawyer
There was a time Ash and I were unseparable.
When I moved high schools, we went from friends to rivals. I could deal with that. But when my girlfriend dropped me for him? We became enemies overnight.
The Ozarks is a big lake, but somehow he's always in my way. First at a flashy rival boat company, where we're always knockin' boats on booze cruises. Sometimes literally.
Now at the newly redeveloped Swallow Cove resort where I'm based.
Ash has got some hair-brained idea to run a food boat for the resort. It's a silly fad that will never last. All flash and no substance, like him.
But now there's no avoiding the guy. Or his annoying face and annoying hair and annoying smiles always flashing my way.
Ash has always gotten whatever he wanted. My sports trophies. My ex-girlfriend. A job with *my* friends.
As tension mounts between us and the heat of anger threatens to boil over into something else, something new and surprising, I start to
Will he get me too?"]
Friends-to-lovers is awesome, but friends-to-enemies-to-lovers is somehow better (even through the heart-ache and angst and pining). The history, even the bad parts, make the chemistry all that much more beautiful (and hot). Plus, these two have been dancing around each other for two whole books now; it's time for their HEA (and Cash's (with Declan)).
And that decade's old argument/disagreement that ruined their friendship? Soooooo fueled by anger and hurt (not between/because of them) and teen hormones mixed with even more anger and hurt (between/because of them). It cooouuuld have been resolved a long time ago but that would have required talking it out and letting out go of the past.
But after they did resolve their anger?!?! Holy. Shit. (and even before a formal apology-slash-resolution) They were utterly in lust (and in love) from the very beginning (probably way before the very beginning), and they only fell harder the longer they let the chemistry flame.
I really thought these two would end up making me sob at some point (they just have that third-act-break-up (aka, unable to communicate when Feelings get too high vibe), but they didn't.
#docktease #prettybuoy #knockinboats #restingbeachface #djjamison #swallowcove #swallowcoveseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Sawyer
There was a time Ash and I were unseparable.
When I moved high schools, we went from friends to rivals. I could deal with that. But when my girlfriend dropped me for him? We became enemies overnight.
The Ozarks is a big lake, but somehow he's always in my way. First at a flashy rival boat company, where we're always knockin' boats on booze cruises. Sometimes literally.
Now at the newly redeveloped Swallow Cove resort where I'm based.
Ash has got some hair-brained idea to run a food boat for the resort. It's a silly fad that will never last. All flash and no substance, like him.
But now there's no avoiding the guy. Or his annoying face and annoying hair and annoying smiles always flashing my way.
Ash has always gotten whatever he wanted. My sports trophies. My ex-girlfriend. A job with *my* friends.
As tension mounts between us and the heat of anger threatens to boil over into something else, something new and surprising, I start to
Will he get me too?"]
Friends-to-lovers is awesome, but friends-to-enemies-to-lovers is somehow better (even through the heart-ache and angst and pining). The history, even the bad parts, make the chemistry all that much more beautiful (and hot). Plus, these two have been dancing around each other for two whole books now; it's time for their HEA (and Cash's (with Declan)).
And that decade's old argument/disagreement that ruined their friendship? Soooooo fueled by anger and hurt (not between/because of them) and teen hormones mixed with even more anger and hurt (between/because of them). It cooouuuld have been resolved a long time ago but that would have required talking it out and letting out go of the past.
But after they did resolve their anger?!?! Holy. Shit. (and even before a formal apology-slash-resolution) They were utterly in lust (and in love) from the very beginning (probably way before the very beginning), and they only fell harder the longer they let the chemistry flame.
I really thought these two would end up making me sob at some point (they just have that third-act-break-up (aka, unable to communicate when Feelings get too high vibe), but they didn't.
#docktease #prettybuoy #knockinboats #restingbeachface #djjamison #swallowcove #swallowcoveseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
October 20, 2024
4.5 This is the third entry in the Swallow Cove series and it is so much fun to read! The previous books in this series set up the dynamic for this particularly tale very well as we get a taste of the hate between Ash & Sawyer.
I am such a sucker for a childhood BFFs to lovers + second chance romance, especially when it's also filled with found family, banter, and heat! In this case, the MCs start off their HEA journey with hate, so there's also enemies to lovers - all of this makes for a very delicious book! Ash and Sawyer used to be best friends throughout their childhood and adolescence until circumstances forced Sawyer's family to move to a different town. However, when Ash got together with Sawyer's ex-girlfriend just weeks after Sawyer and Mel broke up, well, that drove a huge wedge between Ash and Sawyer. This wedge became competitiveness and animosity and they goad each other incessantly throughout the years. Ash is ready for a change in his life (his stepfather is a huge jerk) and he starts a food boat business, which puts him in frequent proximity to Sawyer....and things start to heat up!! Of course all that antagonism was really just a front for deeper feelings and sexual chemistry! Truly, they are yummy together! The emotional part of their relationship develops naturally and I love that they are both all in with their sexual explorations without drama on that front.
I love how much of this takes place on the water - such an interesting premise! The found family and side characters in this book (and series) are a delight whom I have enjoyed getting to know. I love all the puns related to Swallow Cove and being on the water. The banter is fantastic and so is the spice!!!
I am looking forward to Declan and Cash's book soon, too. In addition, apparently I need to read all the other books in the author's universe, since I would get the tie-ins to other book locations better :)
All in all, this is a delight.
Thanks to the author and Neon Rainbow Reviews for this ARC - I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am such a sucker for a childhood BFFs to lovers + second chance romance, especially when it's also filled with found family, banter, and heat! In this case, the MCs start off their HEA journey with hate, so there's also enemies to lovers - all of this makes for a very delicious book! Ash and Sawyer used to be best friends throughout their childhood and adolescence until circumstances forced Sawyer's family to move to a different town. However, when Ash got together with Sawyer's ex-girlfriend just weeks after Sawyer and Mel broke up, well, that drove a huge wedge between Ash and Sawyer. This wedge became competitiveness and animosity and they goad each other incessantly throughout the years. Ash is ready for a change in his life (his stepfather is a huge jerk) and he starts a food boat business, which puts him in frequent proximity to Sawyer....and things start to heat up!! Of course all that antagonism was really just a front for deeper feelings and sexual chemistry! Truly, they are yummy together! The emotional part of their relationship develops naturally and I love that they are both all in with their sexual explorations without drama on that front.
I love how much of this takes place on the water - such an interesting premise! The found family and side characters in this book (and series) are a delight whom I have enjoyed getting to know. I love all the puns related to Swallow Cove and being on the water. The banter is fantastic and so is the spice!!!
I am looking forward to Declan and Cash's book soon, too. In addition, apparently I need to read all the other books in the author's universe, since I would get the tie-ins to other book locations better :)
All in all, this is a delight.
Thanks to the author and Neon Rainbow Reviews for this ARC - I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 17, 2024
KNOCKIN' BOATS is the third installment in the Swallow Cove series. It can be read as a standalone but reads better if you read the series in the order the author intended.
Sawyer and Ash used to be best friends before Sawyer was forced to move across the lake to Swallow Cove because is mom's restaurant went under. Sawyer felt he was losing everything he knew, his friends, his dad in his parent's divorce. But what he didn't expect was his best friend hooking up with his ex girlfriend. It was something Sawyer just couldn't forgive. Seeing Ash on the lake every day where they both worked irritated Sawyer more than it should be he hated everything about Ash. When he finds out Ash is taking a job at the new resort on a food boat he's livid. Now he's invading his space with his friends. But they won't have to see each other much, right?
Ash can't work for his step-dad any longer. He hates doing the booze cruises and seeing Sawyer gets harder every time. He wishes he could apologize but Sawyer refuses to even talk to him about their past. To get out from under his step dads thumb he starts his own business with the food boat which is part of the inn, that is run by Sawyer's friends. He's terrified but failure isn't an option. When a particularly bad day has been witnessed by Sawyer Ash is confused when Sawyer jumps in to help. And even more confused when to shut up his fighting Sawyer kisses him. Ash doesn't know what's happening between them but he doesn't want it to stop.
I loved this double bi awakening story. I couldn't wait to get the history of Ash and Sawyer. The line between love and hate with these two was very thin. I love this little town and was so happy to go back. I can't wait to finally get Cash and Deacon story!!
I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Neon Rainbow.
Sawyer and Ash used to be best friends before Sawyer was forced to move across the lake to Swallow Cove because is mom's restaurant went under. Sawyer felt he was losing everything he knew, his friends, his dad in his parent's divorce. But what he didn't expect was his best friend hooking up with his ex girlfriend. It was something Sawyer just couldn't forgive. Seeing Ash on the lake every day where they both worked irritated Sawyer more than it should be he hated everything about Ash. When he finds out Ash is taking a job at the new resort on a food boat he's livid. Now he's invading his space with his friends. But they won't have to see each other much, right?
Ash can't work for his step-dad any longer. He hates doing the booze cruises and seeing Sawyer gets harder every time. He wishes he could apologize but Sawyer refuses to even talk to him about their past. To get out from under his step dads thumb he starts his own business with the food boat which is part of the inn, that is run by Sawyer's friends. He's terrified but failure isn't an option. When a particularly bad day has been witnessed by Sawyer Ash is confused when Sawyer jumps in to help. And even more confused when to shut up his fighting Sawyer kisses him. Ash doesn't know what's happening between them but he doesn't want it to stop.
I loved this double bi awakening story. I couldn't wait to get the history of Ash and Sawyer. The line between love and hate with these two was very thin. I love this little town and was so happy to go back. I can't wait to finally get Cash and Deacon story!!
I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Neon Rainbow.
December 31, 2024
Sawyer and Ash were best friends as kids until Sawyer's family split up and the restaurant they ran went under. His mom and him moved away; his brother was going to college. He shut people out which included Ash.
Now that the resort is up Ash & Sawyer have to work together on the lake because Ash is running a food boat now. The second day things aren't going great with it and Sawyer stops to help him out. He mentions to their friends who are the owners of the resort that maybe Ash needs some help so he doesn't ruin their name. Well, that sort of backfires because Sawyer is the one that is put on helping Ash until they can get someone else. It however, is the best thing that could have happened.
Their banter is awesome and I was laughing and loving them together. Sawyer is helping Ash the best he can since he's not great with cooking. He takes the orders and does few other things. After a week other help is found, but things have started heating up between them. They go from rivals to more. Every time they'd bicker they'd end up kissing to shut the other up. It was so dang hot, especially those lake swims they were taking.
The sex was out of this world as well. Sawyer and their friends helped when it came to Ash's step dad trying to ruin the boat. Especially after what Ash's stepbrother did and his stepdad was blackmailing to try and get Sawyer to change his statement, which he didn't. That end result was perfect for that evil man. He deserved it because Ash didn't deserve what he did to him. I was happy that Ash's mom saw the light.
I can't wait to read Cash and Declan's book next year. These books have been a wonderful read this year. They are what helped me discover DJ even though I'd read a couple in the past these are what made me see how wonderful her writing really is. Thanks for that.
Now that the resort is up Ash & Sawyer have to work together on the lake because Ash is running a food boat now. The second day things aren't going great with it and Sawyer stops to help him out. He mentions to their friends who are the owners of the resort that maybe Ash needs some help so he doesn't ruin their name. Well, that sort of backfires because Sawyer is the one that is put on helping Ash until they can get someone else. It however, is the best thing that could have happened.
Their banter is awesome and I was laughing and loving them together. Sawyer is helping Ash the best he can since he's not great with cooking. He takes the orders and does few other things. After a week other help is found, but things have started heating up between them. They go from rivals to more. Every time they'd bicker they'd end up kissing to shut the other up. It was so dang hot, especially those lake swims they were taking.
The sex was out of this world as well. Sawyer and their friends helped when it came to Ash's step dad trying to ruin the boat. Especially after what Ash's stepbrother did and his stepdad was blackmailing to try and get Sawyer to change his statement, which he didn't. That end result was perfect for that evil man. He deserved it because Ash didn't deserve what he did to him. I was happy that Ash's mom saw the light.
I can't wait to read Cash and Declan's book next year. These books have been a wonderful read this year. They are what helped me discover DJ even though I'd read a couple in the past these are what made me see how wonderful her writing really is. Thanks for that.
August 14, 2025
3.5 stars
This is a lot like the previous ones with a lot of sex (a lot off page), sexual jokes and naughty puns, although not nearly as much as in the first book.
The plot is sweet if unrealistic. They were a little hard to believe as a couple but I wanted them to succeed. It was so stupid how long they’d been angry. One thought about how he destroyed the other, took away his childhood or life or something. It was so ridiculous. It wasn’t that serious.
There were a lot of good plots like one concerning Ash and his food boat and his evil stepfather. I love the idea of a food boat run like a food truck. There was a lot going on with Sawyer, too, having to take over the tour boat while the owner Hudson was out of town. It was a lot of responsibility. (Why didn’t they ever do a run with people who don’t know each other so a family or couple vacationing there could get a tour?)
There are a variety of characters including one nonbinary and another aromantic. The main characters weren’t that interesting and they were almost exactly the same. At one point one of them thought about the past and how they were practically twins back then and maybe it was going towards that again. I don’t think they ever stopped being alike and it’s too immature a person for me. Their antics felt like some frat boy.
But I enjoyed it anyway and plan to read the next book in the series. Maybe I like a lot of contemporaries after all.
There were two narrators, Iggy Toma and Alexander Cendese. I don’t know who narrated whom so I can’t really review them well. I’ll just say one was better than the other. For example there was a sentence where someone said No or something like that and the text said he popped the O. The narrator didn’t pop the O though. Most readers would. Both made the main characters sound a lot alike. I really wish I knew who was whom.
This is a lot like the previous ones with a lot of sex (a lot off page), sexual jokes and naughty puns, although not nearly as much as in the first book.
The plot is sweet if unrealistic. They were a little hard to believe as a couple but I wanted them to succeed. It was so stupid how long they’d been angry. One thought about how he destroyed the other, took away his childhood or life or something. It was so ridiculous. It wasn’t that serious.
There were a lot of good plots like one concerning Ash and his food boat and his evil stepfather. I love the idea of a food boat run like a food truck. There was a lot going on with Sawyer, too, having to take over the tour boat while the owner Hudson was out of town. It was a lot of responsibility. (Why didn’t they ever do a run with people who don’t know each other so a family or couple vacationing there could get a tour?)
There are a variety of characters including one nonbinary and another aromantic. The main characters weren’t that interesting and they were almost exactly the same. At one point one of them thought about the past and how they were practically twins back then and maybe it was going towards that again. I don’t think they ever stopped being alike and it’s too immature a person for me. Their antics felt like some frat boy.
But I enjoyed it anyway and plan to read the next book in the series. Maybe I like a lot of contemporaries after all.
There were two narrators, Iggy Toma and Alexander Cendese. I don’t know who narrated whom so I can’t really review them well. I’ll just say one was better than the other. For example there was a sentence where someone said No or something like that and the text said he popped the O. The narrator didn’t pop the O though. Most readers would. Both made the main characters sound a lot alike. I really wish I knew who was whom.
October 17, 2024
The spirit of Granville lives on in this series by DJ Jamison and this time the focus moves to Sawyer and Ash, two young men who used to be the best of friends growing up together only to become rivals in high school.
As tour boat operators for competing companies on the lake, Sawyer and Ash needle one another relentlessly, but matters come to a head when Ash opens up a food boat at the new Swallow Cove resort. Sawyer's not happy about the situation but is given an ultimatum by his friends (and boss) to work their issues out. Luckily, the journey getting there is pretty entertaining in this enemies to lovers story as Ash and Sawyer learn the other sides of their dispute.
I liked the relationship between the two young men and found their double "bi-awakening" fairly believable, as Jamison does a good job sketching in the background of their past relationship, and Ash's present questioning. And I thought the dilemma faced by Ash and Sawyer due to Ash's stepfather was an intriguing one, highlighting the real alliances of the characters. I also enjoyed the focus on the business side of the characters' various occupations- not many romances show that reality and it's nice that it was depicted here. Indeed, it's been an interesting focus of the series all along.
And as usual, there's some great snark to be had from the characters, with Ash and Sawyer leading the way but also their friends and family having some great quips. Per the typical Jamison standard, I enjoyed this tale a lot.
As tour boat operators for competing companies on the lake, Sawyer and Ash needle one another relentlessly, but matters come to a head when Ash opens up a food boat at the new Swallow Cove resort. Sawyer's not happy about the situation but is given an ultimatum by his friends (and boss) to work their issues out. Luckily, the journey getting there is pretty entertaining in this enemies to lovers story as Ash and Sawyer learn the other sides of their dispute.
I liked the relationship between the two young men and found their double "bi-awakening" fairly believable, as Jamison does a good job sketching in the background of their past relationship, and Ash's present questioning. And I thought the dilemma faced by Ash and Sawyer due to Ash's stepfather was an intriguing one, highlighting the real alliances of the characters. I also enjoyed the focus on the business side of the characters' various occupations- not many romances show that reality and it's nice that it was depicted here. Indeed, it's been an interesting focus of the series all along.
And as usual, there's some great snark to be had from the characters, with Ash and Sawyer leading the way but also their friends and family having some great quips. Per the typical Jamison standard, I enjoyed this tale a lot.
October 18, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
This series is very entertaining with a cast of realistic, relatable characters, part of an expanding found family, all set in a small town of Swallow Cove on the shores of the Lake of the Ozarks. A new resort has just opened on the lake with most of our characters involved in it somehow. Sawyer works for Swallow Adventures, a boat tour and “booze cruise” company associated with the resort, and Ash works for Dream Boats, the competition across the lake, running one of their booze cruise boats. Ash and Sawyer were best friends from early childhood until a falling out several years ago when Sawyer’s family had a change in circumstances. Since then, the two have been at odds, hardly able to be around each other without one or the other saying something to keep the feud alive. When Ash joins the group at the resort with his new food boat, sparks fly. Forced to be in close proximity, then work together for a week, things begin to change. As they work their way back to getting along (with a unique strategy to encourage that), they move back to friends, then more, the dynamic changing as both realize there has been a big change in the feelings and way they see each other. All is not without drama as they work their way way to their HEA, but love triumphs in the end, and the “good guys” prevail. Engaging characters and great world building around the resort as the found family expands. Interesting series with more to come, well worth the read.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my voluntary review.
This series is very entertaining with a cast of realistic, relatable characters, part of an expanding found family, all set in a small town of Swallow Cove on the shores of the Lake of the Ozarks. A new resort has just opened on the lake with most of our characters involved in it somehow. Sawyer works for Swallow Adventures, a boat tour and “booze cruise” company associated with the resort, and Ash works for Dream Boats, the competition across the lake, running one of their booze cruise boats. Ash and Sawyer were best friends from early childhood until a falling out several years ago when Sawyer’s family had a change in circumstances. Since then, the two have been at odds, hardly able to be around each other without one or the other saying something to keep the feud alive. When Ash joins the group at the resort with his new food boat, sparks fly. Forced to be in close proximity, then work together for a week, things begin to change. As they work their way back to getting along (with a unique strategy to encourage that), they move back to friends, then more, the dynamic changing as both realize there has been a big change in the feelings and way they see each other. All is not without drama as they work their way way to their HEA, but love triumphs in the end, and the “good guys” prevail. Engaging characters and great world building around the resort as the found family expands. Interesting series with more to come, well worth the read.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my voluntary review.
July 21, 2025
It's okay on the surface but if you think about it at all, it really falls apart.
While both of the MCs are nice and likable, their 'enemies' setup was weak. Their fighting and animosity towards each other was disproportionate to the circumstances that led them there. Not to say that Sawyer didn't have a right to be pretty damn upset, but the childish behavior 10 years later was OTT. And they get together because they fight and kiss, over and over. *eye roll
Sawyer's friends were great until they weren't. They seemed to love and support him, but also did not give any shits that they were forcing him to be in a very bad position and made him work with someone that they knew he had issues with for no reason other than making him get over it.
The ex GF, Mel, was a terrible addition and she is creepy with her weird infatuation with the MCs. She's unlikable and I hated every scene with her in it. Her being Ash's best friend did not work at all for me.
The evil stepdad and spineless mom was an awful storyline. I know the author needed some kind of conflict for the book, but this guy was a the final boss and is defeated by a little public humiliation? Then the mom suddenly grows backbone and stands up for her son when she hasn't done a thing for him for years? This was like a Disney ending - and a poor one at that.
Even after all that, it was an easy read. I was neither bored, nor very entertained though. The writing isn't very compelling and the other characters are nowhere near interesting enough for me to read more in this series.
While both of the MCs are nice and likable, their 'enemies' setup was weak. Their fighting and animosity towards each other was disproportionate to the circumstances that led them there. Not to say that Sawyer didn't have a right to be pretty damn upset, but the childish behavior 10 years later was OTT. And they get together because they fight and kiss, over and over. *eye roll
Sawyer's friends were great until they weren't. They seemed to love and support him, but also did not give any shits that they were forcing him to be in a very bad position and made him work with someone that they knew he had issues with for no reason other than making him get over it.
The ex GF, Mel, was a terrible addition and she is creepy with her weird infatuation with the MCs. She's unlikable and I hated every scene with her in it. Her being Ash's best friend did not work at all for me.
The evil stepdad and spineless mom was an awful storyline. I know the author needed some kind of conflict for the book, but this guy was a the final boss and is defeated by a little public humiliation? Then the mom suddenly grows backbone and stands up for her son when she hasn't done a thing for him for years? This was like a Disney ending - and a poor one at that.
Even after all that, it was an easy read. I was neither bored, nor very entertained though. The writing isn't very compelling and the other characters are nowhere near interesting enough for me to read more in this series.
October 16, 2024
Knockin’ Boats by DJ Jamison is book 3 in the Swallow Cove series. I love this series so much. Sawyer and Ash have been key figures in the past two books and their feud with each other is well known. They once were best friends but Sawyer moved away and Ash eventually started dating Sawyer’s ex-girlfriend shortly after they broke up. Sawyer felt hurt that he had lost his best friend and girlfriend all in one time period. It was very easy to see why Sawyer would feel betrayed by that. Ash was willing to push Sawyer’s buttons just to make him react.
I didn’t like how everyone kept pushing Sawyer to interact with Ash. I understand it from a story perspective, but in real life if someone had treated you that way, you wouldn’t push them to spend time together and be friendly. Perhaps be willing to be polite but beyond that seems cruel. I think I related a little too much to Sawyer. Plus, Ash and Mel still hung out and Sawyer never knew that they were only friends. Mel kinda bothered me as well. She seemed overly involved in their relationship. However, she did have my favorite line. When Ash was complaining that she had been forgiven, Mel told him that her and Sawyer’s relationship had been over but he had still been Sawyer’s best friend. That was a very astute comment on why Sawyer was so angry at Ash.
I just love the Swallow Cove community and it was so nice to see Brooks, Skylar, Fisher, and Hudson again. Love them. I am looking forward to reading Cash and Declan’s story. I think it will be a good one. I highly recommend this series!
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review
I didn’t like how everyone kept pushing Sawyer to interact with Ash. I understand it from a story perspective, but in real life if someone had treated you that way, you wouldn’t push them to spend time together and be friendly. Perhaps be willing to be polite but beyond that seems cruel. I think I related a little too much to Sawyer. Plus, Ash and Mel still hung out and Sawyer never knew that they were only friends. Mel kinda bothered me as well. She seemed overly involved in their relationship. However, she did have my favorite line. When Ash was complaining that she had been forgiven, Mel told him that her and Sawyer’s relationship had been over but he had still been Sawyer’s best friend. That was a very astute comment on why Sawyer was so angry at Ash.
I just love the Swallow Cove community and it was so nice to see Brooks, Skylar, Fisher, and Hudson again. Love them. I am looking forward to reading Cash and Declan’s story. I think it will be a good one. I highly recommend this series!
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews