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Sterling Falls #4
Sterling Clay: alternative cover
Love doesn’t break us; it makes us whole, my nana used to say.
However, one minute, my world is set on fire, literally. The next, I am raising a six-year-old as a single mom without a clear path ahead of us. No place to live. No job. No money.
I’m returning to Sterling Falls to claim what’s mine, then there will be no looking back on this beloved small town, a place I consider a handful of sand in the hourglass of my life.
Then again, Clay Sylver has shaken up that ancient time clock. The silver fox in his forties is a bit cocky, but solid in every way that matters. He loves his siblings. He works hard. He owns an honest business. Honest, the emphasis here. He also suffers from damsel-in-distress syndrome with a savior complex for lost causes, like stray animals and down-and-out women.
And I have a secret crush on him.
When I see Clay stranded on the side of the road one dark, stormy night, I stop to offer assistance. Burning with fever, Clay is sick, and my mom-instincts kick in to give him comfort. That decision throws me off course again. While my past lurks everywhere, I find myself falling in love with Sterling Falls once more and falling harder for the man giving my son and me a safe haven.
Love is a risk, according to Clay, but he’s slowly rescuing my heart while I’m saving his.
However, one minute, my world is set on fire, literally. The next, I am raising a six-year-old as a single mom without a clear path ahead of us. No place to live. No job. No money.
I’m returning to Sterling Falls to claim what’s mine, then there will be no looking back on this beloved small town, a place I consider a handful of sand in the hourglass of my life.
Then again, Clay Sylver has shaken up that ancient time clock. The silver fox in his forties is a bit cocky, but solid in every way that matters. He loves his siblings. He works hard. He owns an honest business. Honest, the emphasis here. He also suffers from damsel-in-distress syndrome with a savior complex for lost causes, like stray animals and down-and-out women.
And I have a secret crush on him.
When I see Clay stranded on the side of the road one dark, stormy night, I stop to offer assistance. Burning with fever, Clay is sick, and my mom-instincts kick in to give him comfort. That decision throws me off course again. While my past lurks everywhere, I find myself falling in love with Sterling Falls once more and falling harder for the man giving my son and me a safe haven.
Love is a risk, according to Clay, but he’s slowly rescuing my heart while I’m saving his.
274 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2024
490 people are currently reading
2154 people want to read
About the author
L.B. Dunbar
97 books3,280 followersL.B. Dunbar loves sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns. If you enjoy older characters in your romance reads, including a hero with a little silver in his scruff and a heroine rediscovering her worth, then welcome to romance for those over 40. L.B. Dunbar’s signature works include women and men in their prime taking another turn at love and happily ever after. She’s a USA TODAY Bestseller as well as #1 Bestseller on Amazon in Later in Life Romance with her Sterling Falls, Lakeside Cottage, and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
September 3, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
I enjoyed watching Clay and Mavis's story play and I love the interactions with the Sylver siblings. However, this is not my favorite in the series. I don't want to say too much and give away any spoilers, so just know that I did enjoy this, just not as much as others in the series.
I enjoyed watching Clay and Mavis's story play and I love the interactions with the Sylver siblings. However, this is not my favorite in the series. I don't want to say too much and give away any spoilers, so just know that I did enjoy this, just not as much as others in the series.
September 14, 2024
Older Adults Finding Love For The First Time
3.5 stars
Now 43, Clay has been caring for his younger siblings and extended family since his mother passed away when he was 10. After watching his father become an abusive drunkard after losing his wife, Clay is distrustful about love.
Mavis and her son have escaped an abusive relationship. After a near fatal attack by her ex, she's distrustful about men and relationships.
Both Mavis and Clay have crushed on each other for some time. They finally connect on a dark road in a storm when Clay's car stalls out. Mavis volunteers to take him home and realizes that he's sick. Caring for him and staying in his home lays the groundwork for a relationship.
There are some parallel plotlines. Dutton's behavior is nonconformist in terms of gender. (He likes pink and princesses.) Clay demonstrates his unconditional love with acceptance. He is protective of and meets Dutton on his own terms.
A threat is also shadowing Mavis and Dutton; it's unclear who has come out of the woodwork from their past life. That plotline is wrapped up a little too facilely and quickly at the very end of the book.
I was engaged by the story but this wasn't the best entry in this series.
3.5 stars
Now 43, Clay has been caring for his younger siblings and extended family since his mother passed away when he was 10. After watching his father become an abusive drunkard after losing his wife, Clay is distrustful about love.
Mavis and her son have escaped an abusive relationship. After a near fatal attack by her ex, she's distrustful about men and relationships.
Both Mavis and Clay have crushed on each other for some time. They finally connect on a dark road in a storm when Clay's car stalls out. Mavis volunteers to take him home and realizes that he's sick. Caring for him and staying in his home lays the groundwork for a relationship.
There are some parallel plotlines. Dutton's behavior is nonconformist in terms of gender. (He likes pink and princesses.) Clay demonstrates his unconditional love with acceptance. He is protective of and meets Dutton on his own terms.
A threat is also shadowing Mavis and Dutton; it's unclear who has come out of the woodwork from their past life. That plotline is wrapped up a little too facilely and quickly at the very end of the book.
I was engaged by the story but this wasn't the best entry in this series.
September 19, 2024
🎧🎧AUDIO REVIEW🎧🎧
You guys! I woke up this morning and saw my Airpods on the bed scattered and thought “okay, your addiction to audiobooks is getting out of hand” (cue me lol a lot)!! I say this to you because Sterling Clay is one of the audiobooks in the lineup of my #audiobinge that began last Monday! I mean every day and night I have had a story in my ears, and it has been a glorious party!
I love LB Dunbar. She is one of the best authors out there that writes later in life romances and me, being 54 years young, appreciates her more and more as the years go by! She is so authentic with the circumstances in her stories, and it is really easy to relate and get lost in her stories! Her fiction is realistic and always touches society’s darkest areas in some way. That’s to say that she doesn’t write fluff. Her characters and their stories are ”real people” in the world with authentic problems.
Mavis & Clay’s story was emotional for me. I wouldn’t say it was driven by angst, but it was definitely driven by emotion. All of them. Any emotion you can think of, it’s in this story, and the fact that I listened to the story notched the emotion up for me. Narrators Willa James & Oliver Highpoint did more than just narrate this story. They brought the story to life, and I saw it happen in my head. That is some grade-A narrating right there! I’d never listened to anything by these two, but I’ll be looking out for them in the future for sure! When you take a powerhouse writer such as LB and you add narrators who take on their roles as if they were living the story, it’s a powerful experience, and this story deserved it! 👏🏻👏🏻very loud round of applause to everyone👏🏻👏🏻
You guys! I woke up this morning and saw my Airpods on the bed scattered and thought “okay, your addiction to audiobooks is getting out of hand” (cue me lol a lot)!! I say this to you because Sterling Clay is one of the audiobooks in the lineup of my #audiobinge that began last Monday! I mean every day and night I have had a story in my ears, and it has been a glorious party!
I love LB Dunbar. She is one of the best authors out there that writes later in life romances and me, being 54 years young, appreciates her more and more as the years go by! She is so authentic with the circumstances in her stories, and it is really easy to relate and get lost in her stories! Her fiction is realistic and always touches society’s darkest areas in some way. That’s to say that she doesn’t write fluff. Her characters and their stories are ”real people” in the world with authentic problems.
Mavis & Clay’s story was emotional for me. I wouldn’t say it was driven by angst, but it was definitely driven by emotion. All of them. Any emotion you can think of, it’s in this story, and the fact that I listened to the story notched the emotion up for me. Narrators Willa James & Oliver Highpoint did more than just narrate this story. They brought the story to life, and I saw it happen in my head. That is some grade-A narrating right there! I’d never listened to anything by these two, but I’ll be looking out for them in the future for sure! When you take a powerhouse writer such as LB and you add narrators who take on their roles as if they were living the story, it’s a powerful experience, and this story deserved it! 👏🏻👏🏻very loud round of applause to everyone👏🏻👏🏻
September 12, 2024
Received an advanced listening copy from the author agency in exchange for an honest review.
Performance wise, I enjoyed this audiobook, this was my first time listening to both Willa James & Oliver Highpoint and I enjoyed both their tone and delivery of the story and would definitely listen to them both again.
Unfortunately for me the story itself fell short I'd reached the 50% mark and nothing of any depth or detail had happened between the MCs Mavis and Clay or the overall plot either and i came close to DNF-ING. Some of the commentary surrounding gender etc when it came to Mavis's son Dutton came across a bit disingenuous and performative and felt like the author was shoehoring in current social topics to make the story feel more relevant and impactful because the rest of the plot points were frankly weak. The dynamic with the spice between Mavis & Clay just didn't work for me at all, Mavis wasn't a strong enough character to pull off the in charge persona the author was attempting to give her and although Clay was meant to be the more submissive one in those moments he was clearly topping from the bottom which undermined what the author was trying to achieve so it just made me cringe... this whole story felt surface level with no real depth or development in the characters or plot. I'm left indifferent to this book overall. 🌶
Performance wise, I enjoyed this audiobook, this was my first time listening to both Willa James & Oliver Highpoint and I enjoyed both their tone and delivery of the story and would definitely listen to them both again.
Unfortunately for me the story itself fell short I'd reached the 50% mark and nothing of any depth or detail had happened between the MCs Mavis and Clay or the overall plot either and i came close to DNF-ING. Some of the commentary surrounding gender etc when it came to Mavis's son Dutton came across a bit disingenuous and performative and felt like the author was shoehoring in current social topics to make the story feel more relevant and impactful because the rest of the plot points were frankly weak. The dynamic with the spice between Mavis & Clay just didn't work for me at all, Mavis wasn't a strong enough character to pull off the in charge persona the author was attempting to give her and although Clay was meant to be the more submissive one in those moments he was clearly topping from the bottom which undermined what the author was trying to achieve so it just made me cringe... this whole story felt surface level with no real depth or development in the characters or plot. I'm left indifferent to this book overall. 🌶
September 10, 2024
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: single mom
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Such a sweet, emotional story! Small-town isn't my favorite romance genre, but I love LB Dunbar's stories with their mature characters that are so easy to become invested in. Sterling Clay moved very quickly, had a dash of suspense, and great smexy times that brought the heat. I've really enjoyed this entire series, and I can't wait to see who's next!
Trope: single mom
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Such a sweet, emotional story! Small-town isn't my favorite romance genre, but I love LB Dunbar's stories with their mature characters that are so easy to become invested in. Sterling Clay moved very quickly, had a dash of suspense, and great smexy times that brought the heat. I've really enjoyed this entire series, and I can't wait to see who's next!
September 12, 2024
This is the fourth book in the Sterling Falls series, but it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone. I haven't read the previous books yet, and I didn’t feel like I missed anything. The story follows Mavis, a single mom, and her six-year-old son, as they reconnect with Clay, a long-time acquaintance, after Mavis returns to town. Clay steps up immediately, caring for both Mavis and her son, and I loved watching their relationships develop and evolve. There's also a touch of suspense that adds a mix of emotions. The narrators did an excellent job bringing each character to life, capturing Mavis and Clay exactly as I had imagined them. If you're looking for a sweet yet emotional read, this one is perfect.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Thank you, L.B. Dunbar and The Author Agency for the ALC.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Thank you, L.B. Dunbar and The Author Agency for the ALC.
August 31, 2024
Finally, we get Clay's story, one of the pseudo fathers of the Sylver siblings. I love this family, one that banded together in the absence of parental figures, so much. They each have such distinctive personalities yet share family traits, and the more I learn, the more I love.
Mavis Grant is returning to Sterling Falls for some unfinished business, then she plans to keep on moving with her six-year-old son, Dutton. When she sees a stranded truck and stops to give a clearly sick Clay a ride home, she ends up staying a couple of days to nurse him back to health. Clay knows Mavis plans to move on, but he'll do whatever is necessary to get her to stay.
I loved getting Clay's story, but this wasn’t my favorite of the series. The relationship development seemed to go from zero to 100 in the blink of an eye. One minute Mavis is leaving and with the next breath Clay is declaring they're a family. The storyline with the child felt unfinished and more of a nod to current societal issues, and the mystery was one I too easily unraveled. From the bad guy's first appearance it was clear to me who he was.
Still, I adore this small town with its quirks and charms, and I love this family so much. I love their strong bond and willingness to accept found members with ease. Clay won me over with the way he was all in with Mavis and his ease and protectiveness with Dutton. And what's not to love about a romance between people in their 40s? With small-town enchantment, a little suspense, and plenty of steam, this one is sure to appeal to small-town and mature romance lovers everywhere.
Mavis Grant is returning to Sterling Falls for some unfinished business, then she plans to keep on moving with her six-year-old son, Dutton. When she sees a stranded truck and stops to give a clearly sick Clay a ride home, she ends up staying a couple of days to nurse him back to health. Clay knows Mavis plans to move on, but he'll do whatever is necessary to get her to stay.
I loved getting Clay's story, but this wasn’t my favorite of the series. The relationship development seemed to go from zero to 100 in the blink of an eye. One minute Mavis is leaving and with the next breath Clay is declaring they're a family. The storyline with the child felt unfinished and more of a nod to current societal issues, and the mystery was one I too easily unraveled. From the bad guy's first appearance it was clear to me who he was.
Still, I adore this small town with its quirks and charms, and I love this family so much. I love their strong bond and willingness to accept found members with ease. Clay won me over with the way he was all in with Mavis and his ease and protectiveness with Dutton. And what's not to love about a romance between people in their 40s? With small-town enchantment, a little suspense, and plenty of steam, this one is sure to appeal to small-town and mature romance lovers everywhere.
September 12, 2024
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
Suddenly Mavis become jobless and homeless without any money. Mavis Grant returned to Sterling Falls because she has there some unfinished business, then she plans to move on with her six year old son, Dutton.
She met Clay Sylver when he was stranded on the side of the road with a broken up truck and was very sick. She drove him home, and ended up staying there for a few days nursing him back to health.
I absolutely loved how Clay was with Dutton. Their relationship is special. Clay knew that Mavis plans to leave once she finishes her business in Sterling Falls, but he is determined to make her and her son stay and become a family. The interactions between the Sylver siblings was hilarious and warm just like always.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a single mom, small town romance then you’re going to love it.
Suddenly Mavis become jobless and homeless without any money. Mavis Grant returned to Sterling Falls because she has there some unfinished business, then she plans to move on with her six year old son, Dutton.
She met Clay Sylver when he was stranded on the side of the road with a broken up truck and was very sick. She drove him home, and ended up staying there for a few days nursing him back to health.
I absolutely loved how Clay was with Dutton. Their relationship is special. Clay knew that Mavis plans to leave once she finishes her business in Sterling Falls, but he is determined to make her and her son stay and become a family. The interactions between the Sylver siblings was hilarious and warm just like always.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a single mom, small town romance then you’re going to love it.
September 15, 2024
⭐⭐⭐.5
ARC Review
Check TW
Tropes:
Crush revealed and acted upon
Savior complex
Sick/comfort
Single mom
Small town swoon
All the heat
She takes control
This was an amazingly sweet story. The way Clay was so understanding of Mavis & Dutton. Their past and the struggles they both went through had me melting.
Mavis recently escaped a DA relationship with her son and have been trying to rebuild their lives. Coming back to Sterling Falls to tie up lose ends didn't go as planned, but ended up being better than ever.
Clay was only 10 when he lost his mom and suddenly had to become a caregiver for his younger siblings. Clay is a giver and a hero, but this time he's the one that needs saving.
I knew I would love Clay and I absolutely did! He's extremely understanding and a true caregiver. He will literally do anything for the ones he loves. I'm so happy he finally found someone that will love him and care for him like he deserves.
Mavis is a superhero. After everything she went through, she continues to fight and protect Dutton. She did give off some stalkerish vibes in the beginning, but it was actually pretty cute.
Also the fact that these two had a crush on each for years, but thought the other didn't even notice them was adorable! And she takes control🔥🔥 nothing beats a man on his knees for his woman!
Although this book was very sweet, I felt it was lacking in the romance portion. To me this seemed more like advocacy book, rather than a romance novel. While some might appreciate that, I felt it overpowered the couple and their own journey.
Can't wait for rest of the Sylver siblings! I really appreciated the hints into Stone's story!
ARC Review
Check TW
Tropes:
Crush revealed and acted upon
Savior complex
Sick/comfort
Single mom
Small town swoon
All the heat
She takes control
This was an amazingly sweet story. The way Clay was so understanding of Mavis & Dutton. Their past and the struggles they both went through had me melting.
Mavis recently escaped a DA relationship with her son and have been trying to rebuild their lives. Coming back to Sterling Falls to tie up lose ends didn't go as planned, but ended up being better than ever.
Clay was only 10 when he lost his mom and suddenly had to become a caregiver for his younger siblings. Clay is a giver and a hero, but this time he's the one that needs saving.
I knew I would love Clay and I absolutely did! He's extremely understanding and a true caregiver. He will literally do anything for the ones he loves. I'm so happy he finally found someone that will love him and care for him like he deserves.
Mavis is a superhero. After everything she went through, she continues to fight and protect Dutton. She did give off some stalkerish vibes in the beginning, but it was actually pretty cute.
Also the fact that these two had a crush on each for years, but thought the other didn't even notice them was adorable! And she takes control🔥🔥 nothing beats a man on his knees for his woman!
Although this book was very sweet, I felt it was lacking in the romance portion. To me this seemed more like advocacy book, rather than a romance novel. While some might appreciate that, I felt it overpowered the couple and their own journey.
Can't wait for rest of the Sylver siblings! I really appreciated the hints into Stone's story!
September 27, 2024
5 star Review Sterling Clay (Sterling Falls #4) by L B Dunbar
Ebook/Audio:
I love my visits to Sterling Falls and I couldn’t wait to read Clay and Mavis’s story, adding in Mavis’s son six year old Dutton just made it spot on.
I enjoy L. B. Dunbar writing style. .Her characters are engaging and so easy to relate to; probably because her characters are more mature and I find that so easy to relate too.
From the first chapter, I was hooked on the story and the addition of the suspense element just added to my enjoyment. There was a good balance of romance and suspense.
They have both been through so much. This is a beautifully written, witty, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. There are equal amounts of passion, romance, and angst in this story which had me tearing up and smiling, sometimes at the same time.
Narrated by Willa James and Oliver Highpoint who did a brilliant job in their narration. They brought all the drama, suspense and romance out . Their performances did justice to the wonderful story.
Ebook/Audio:
I love my visits to Sterling Falls and I couldn’t wait to read Clay and Mavis’s story, adding in Mavis’s son six year old Dutton just made it spot on.
I enjoy L. B. Dunbar writing style. .Her characters are engaging and so easy to relate to; probably because her characters are more mature and I find that so easy to relate too.
From the first chapter, I was hooked on the story and the addition of the suspense element just added to my enjoyment. There was a good balance of romance and suspense.
They have both been through so much. This is a beautifully written, witty, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. There are equal amounts of passion, romance, and angst in this story which had me tearing up and smiling, sometimes at the same time.
Narrated by Willa James and Oliver Highpoint who did a brilliant job in their narration. They brought all the drama, suspense and romance out . Their performances did justice to the wonderful story.
September 27, 2024
5 star Review Sterling Clay (Sterling Falls #4) by L B Dunbar
Ebook/Audio:
I love my visits to Sterling Falls and I couldn’t wait to read Clay and Mavis’s story, adding in Mavis’s son six year old Dutton just made it spot on.
I enjoy L. B. Dunbar writing style. .Her characters are engaging and so easy to relate to; probably because her characters are more mature and I find that so easy to relate too.
From the first chapter, I was hooked on the story and the addition of the suspense element just added to my enjoyment. There was a good balance of romance and suspense.
They have both been through so much. This is a beautifully written, witty, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. There are equal amounts of passion, romance, and angst in this story which had me tearing up and smiling, sometimes at the same time.
Narrated by Willa James and Oliver Highpoint who did a brilliant job in their narration. They brought all the drama, suspense and romance out . Their performances did justice to the wonderful story.
Ebook/Audio:
I love my visits to Sterling Falls and I couldn’t wait to read Clay and Mavis’s story, adding in Mavis’s son six year old Dutton just made it spot on.
I enjoy L. B. Dunbar writing style. .Her characters are engaging and so easy to relate to; probably because her characters are more mature and I find that so easy to relate too.
From the first chapter, I was hooked on the story and the addition of the suspense element just added to my enjoyment. There was a good balance of romance and suspense.
They have both been through so much. This is a beautifully written, witty, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. There are equal amounts of passion, romance, and angst in this story which had me tearing up and smiling, sometimes at the same time.
Narrated by Willa James and Oliver Highpoint who did a brilliant job in their narration. They brought all the drama, suspense and romance out . Their performances did justice to the wonderful story.
September 18, 2024
This story had the perfect amount of all the right things to suck you in and hold you hostage until the very end. I've never read an LB Dunbar book before, but I loved her attention to detail in her character development. These characters had such depth that it was hard not to break your own heart as you fell in love with them. The trouble pasts that Clay and Mavis hold and the hope of happiness for the future bolted me into my seat. I will say, though, that there was a distinct lack of romance here, and maybe that's intended... as I haven't read any of the other books in this series but after I read it and sat with it for a few days the things that stuck out to me, were Mavis' strength, Duttons gender issues. I wish the ending didn't wrap up as quickly as it did. That to me felt like there were some distinct pacing issues and the sole reason for my 4 star.
September 16, 2024
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
Spice: 🌶🌶 out of 5
Tropes:
💞Mutual Unrequited Crushes
🏡Small Town
👶Single Mom
❤️🔥Mature Love (late 30' early 40's)
🫂Forced Proximity
Blurb:
Love doesn’t break us; it makes us whole, my nana used to say.
However, one minute, my world is set on fire, literally. The next, I am raising a six-year-old as a single mom without a clear path ahead of us. No place to live. No job. No money.
I’m returning to Sterling Falls to claim what’s mine, then there will be no looking back on this beloved small town, a place I consider a handful of sand in the hourglass of my life.
Then again, Clay Sylver has shaken up that ancient time clock. The silver fox in his forties is a bit cocky, but solid in every way that matters. He loves his siblings. He works hard. He owns an honest business. Honest, the emphasis here. He also suffers from damsel-in-distress syndrome with a savior complex for lost causes, like stray animals and down-and-out women.
And I have a secret crush on him.
When I see Clay stranded on the side of the road one dark, stormy night, I stop to offer assistance. Burning with fever, Clay is sick, and my mom-instincts kick in to give him comfort. That decision throws me off course again. While my past lurks everywhere, I find myself falling in love with Sterling Falls once more and falling harder for the man giving my son and me a safe haven.
Love is a risk, according to Clay, but he’s slowly rescuing my heart while I’m saving his.
💛Review:
This small town romance has some sweet moments for sure and I love how they meet in the rain and she takes care of him. I think perhaps, I would've enjoyed more of the unrequited crush history between them though before they acted upon things. Clay is super lovable bit he already starts a nickname within a few days of her coming back and same with them acting upon their attraction...just happens quite fast.
The boy is cute and the unconditional love is totally commendable towards him and whatever he may idenas...but he's only 6 years old. And I feel the advocacy was just a tad too overly focused for my personal preference (nothing at all wrong with the message of course).
It's a decent crush fulfilled, more mature romance but not quite as "meaty" and again pacing moves fast and not as much angst/back story. More predictable and safe but they are a good couple!
Spice: 🌶🌶 out of 5
Tropes:
💞Mutual Unrequited Crushes
🏡Small Town
👶Single Mom
❤️🔥Mature Love (late 30' early 40's)
🫂Forced Proximity
Blurb:
Love doesn’t break us; it makes us whole, my nana used to say.
However, one minute, my world is set on fire, literally. The next, I am raising a six-year-old as a single mom without a clear path ahead of us. No place to live. No job. No money.
I’m returning to Sterling Falls to claim what’s mine, then there will be no looking back on this beloved small town, a place I consider a handful of sand in the hourglass of my life.
Then again, Clay Sylver has shaken up that ancient time clock. The silver fox in his forties is a bit cocky, but solid in every way that matters. He loves his siblings. He works hard. He owns an honest business. Honest, the emphasis here. He also suffers from damsel-in-distress syndrome with a savior complex for lost causes, like stray animals and down-and-out women.
And I have a secret crush on him.
When I see Clay stranded on the side of the road one dark, stormy night, I stop to offer assistance. Burning with fever, Clay is sick, and my mom-instincts kick in to give him comfort. That decision throws me off course again. While my past lurks everywhere, I find myself falling in love with Sterling Falls once more and falling harder for the man giving my son and me a safe haven.
Love is a risk, according to Clay, but he’s slowly rescuing my heart while I’m saving his.
💛Review:
This small town romance has some sweet moments for sure and I love how they meet in the rain and she takes care of him. I think perhaps, I would've enjoyed more of the unrequited crush history between them though before they acted upon things. Clay is super lovable bit he already starts a nickname within a few days of her coming back and same with them acting upon their attraction...just happens quite fast.
The boy is cute and the unconditional love is totally commendable towards him and whatever he may idenas...but he's only 6 years old. And I feel the advocacy was just a tad too overly focused for my personal preference (nothing at all wrong with the message of course).
It's a decent crush fulfilled, more mature romance but not quite as "meaty" and again pacing moves fast and not as much angst/back story. More predictable and safe but they are a good couple!
October 3, 2024
This book made me melt. L.B. Dunbar wrote a fantastic story, again featuring a couple that is around my age (early 40s). The maturity and real issues the couple encounters are like a breath of fresh air. Mavis's past adds in a layer of mystery that is revealed as her trust in Clay grows. I think one of my favorite interactions were the ones between Dutton and Clay. Clay seemed surprised at how quickly he fell for not only Mavis, but also Dutton. Lovely, unique little Dutton.
This was definitely an audiobook I could not stop listening to. Both Willa Jaymes and Oliver Highpoint were new to me narrators, and I loved both their performances. They were beautifully cast, and really made me hook into the story quickly. I am really enjoying this entire series by L.B. Dunbar. Thank you to Home Cooked Books for allowing me to listen to this book in exchange for my honest review.
This was definitely an audiobook I could not stop listening to. Both Willa Jaymes and Oliver Highpoint were new to me narrators, and I loved both their performances. They were beautifully cast, and really made me hook into the story quickly. I am really enjoying this entire series by L.B. Dunbar. Thank you to Home Cooked Books for allowing me to listen to this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 9, 2024
This book tugged at my heart. There was so much emotion going on here, from all sides, at times it seemed overwhelming. Clay is the teddy bear, rugged, protective, loving alpha all of us girls want! The plot moved seamlessly and the characters came in developed but also grew and flourished on the pages. The author had a perfect mix of strong plot, steamy scenes and turbulence to keep me sucked in from page one! You'll love this quick read!
September 27, 2024
5 star Review Sterling Clay (Sterling Falls #4) by L B Dunbar
Ebook/Audio:
I love my visits to Sterling Falls and I couldn’t wait to read Clay and Mavis’s story, adding in Mavis’s son six year old Dutton just made it spot on.
I enjoy L. B. Dunbar writing style. .Her characters are engaging and so easy to relate to; probably because her characters are more mature and I find that so easy to relate too.
From the first chapter, I was hooked on the story and the addition of the suspense element just added to my enjoyment. There was a good balance of romance and suspense.
They have both been through so much. This is a beautifully written, witty, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. There are equal amounts of passion, romance, and angst in this story which had me tearing up and smiling, sometimes at the same time.
Narrated by Willa James and Oliver Highpoint who did a brilliant job in their narration. They brought all the drama, suspense and romance out . Their performances did justice to the wonderful story.
Ebook/Audio:
I love my visits to Sterling Falls and I couldn’t wait to read Clay and Mavis’s story, adding in Mavis’s son six year old Dutton just made it spot on.
I enjoy L. B. Dunbar writing style. .Her characters are engaging and so easy to relate to; probably because her characters are more mature and I find that so easy to relate too.
From the first chapter, I was hooked on the story and the addition of the suspense element just added to my enjoyment. There was a good balance of romance and suspense.
They have both been through so much. This is a beautifully written, witty, emotional story that ticked all the boxes for me. There are equal amounts of passion, romance, and angst in this story which had me tearing up and smiling, sometimes at the same time.
Narrated by Willa James and Oliver Highpoint who did a brilliant job in their narration. They brought all the drama, suspense and romance out . Their performances did justice to the wonderful story.
September 1, 2024
This was my first book into the series and I loved it you have mavis who has a six year old son named Dutton and she is determined to keep moving on and keep him safe then she finds sick clay who needs medical attention and she stay and helps him. I love how protective clay is of Dutton and how much he cares for mavis and wants them all to be a family. This was so good!
September 13, 2024
The savior of the group needs saving. Stranded in the side of the road, Mavis comes face to face with her crush Clay. He’s also got a mancold. This was a quick read that, had a bit of suspense but overall swoony, small-town, lots of siblings and a single mom with an adorably quirky son.
September 16, 2024
This book was everything I hoped it would be. I LOVE an undercover softy and the MMC was just that. A grump at first but then he shows his fluffy true colors. These characters are so easy to love and cheer on. Can’t wait to read more of this series!
October 10, 2024
4.5 out of 5 stars!
There's something about the Sylver men that makes one fall hard. Clay may have been gruff and solitary, set in his ways, and single by design, but when it came to Mavis and Dutton he was a big teddy bear. He's liked her from afar, but circumstances kept him from acting on it. Now that she's back in town, he's not going to pass up his chance.
"Because I had a proclivity for alpha-holes instead of cinnamon rolls in my life..."
While Mavis embraced Dutton's uniqueness, she knew others weren't as open. But when this cinnamon roll of a man treats her son the way she treats him, she falls. Couple that with the way the rest of the Sylver clan embraces Mavis and Dutton...can we say these characters really tugged at the heartstrings?
"Life is the fairy tale, if you look in all the little cracks and corners..."
Everyone's fairy tale is different. Some are not so obvious. Some are tucked in deep corners. For Clay and Mavis, the fairy tale began in the most bizarre way, but the happy ending was what they all got and deserved. Clay had thought his days of raising kids was over and done with; raising his siblings was something he didn't want but did. Now that Mavis and Dutton are in his life, he can't think of anywhere else he'd rather be than being a partner to Mavis and father to Dutton.
"Love her hard. Let her love you hard, too."
Indeed.
Then we have the audiobook.... Willa James and Oliver Highpoint are new to me narrators. These new voices really brought out the characters' personalities for me and brought the story to life. Chef's kiss!
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
There's something about the Sylver men that makes one fall hard. Clay may have been gruff and solitary, set in his ways, and single by design, but when it came to Mavis and Dutton he was a big teddy bear. He's liked her from afar, but circumstances kept him from acting on it. Now that she's back in town, he's not going to pass up his chance.
"Because I had a proclivity for alpha-holes instead of cinnamon rolls in my life..."
While Mavis embraced Dutton's uniqueness, she knew others weren't as open. But when this cinnamon roll of a man treats her son the way she treats him, she falls. Couple that with the way the rest of the Sylver clan embraces Mavis and Dutton...can we say these characters really tugged at the heartstrings?
"Life is the fairy tale, if you look in all the little cracks and corners..."
Everyone's fairy tale is different. Some are not so obvious. Some are tucked in deep corners. For Clay and Mavis, the fairy tale began in the most bizarre way, but the happy ending was what they all got and deserved. Clay had thought his days of raising kids was over and done with; raising his siblings was something he didn't want but did. Now that Mavis and Dutton are in his life, he can't think of anywhere else he'd rather be than being a partner to Mavis and father to Dutton.
"Love her hard. Let her love you hard, too."
Indeed.
Then we have the audiobook.... Willa James and Oliver Highpoint are new to me narrators. These new voices really brought out the characters' personalities for me and brought the story to life. Chef's kiss!
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
May 11, 2025
3.5 stars
Sterling Clay is the fourth book in the Sterling Falls series, but it can be read as a standalone.
This was so cute and had an element of suspense mixed in.
I loved how Clay was with not only Mavis, but her son, Dutton, as well. He wasn’t judgmental and really just wanted to show Dutton he was loved.
Clay and Mavis were great together. They were both older, and they’d both been through stuff, but they truly understood each other. And Mavis, wow. She was truly so strong and brave!
Anyway, this was a great addition to the series, and I enjoyed it.
Audio:
Narrators: Willa James and Oliver Highpoint
Narration Style: Dual
These two did a good job, but at times Oliver’s voice seemed to change in tone, despite nothing exciting happening. It just threw me off a bit.
Side note: There was one line in the book that wasn’t very important to the overall story, but it took me out of the book. Mavis said, “Moana the Hawaiian princess.” And Moana isn’t Hawaiian. And I know it’s not a big thing; it’s just one line. But at the same time, it’s kind of upsetting because it dishonors Moana’s entire identity.
Sterling Clay is the fourth book in the Sterling Falls series, but it can be read as a standalone.
This was so cute and had an element of suspense mixed in.
I loved how Clay was with not only Mavis, but her son, Dutton, as well. He wasn’t judgmental and really just wanted to show Dutton he was loved.
Clay and Mavis were great together. They were both older, and they’d both been through stuff, but they truly understood each other. And Mavis, wow. She was truly so strong and brave!
Anyway, this was a great addition to the series, and I enjoyed it.
Audio:
Narrators: Willa James and Oliver Highpoint
Narration Style: Dual
These two did a good job, but at times Oliver’s voice seemed to change in tone, despite nothing exciting happening. It just threw me off a bit.
Side note: There was one line in the book that wasn’t very important to the overall story, but it took me out of the book. Mavis said, “Moana the Hawaiian princess.” And Moana isn’t Hawaiian. And I know it’s not a big thing; it’s just one line. But at the same time, it’s kind of upsetting because it dishonors Moana’s entire identity.
February 12, 2025
Absolutely disappointed in this. I have loved all of LB Dunbar’s other books and I love the older characters. But this wasn’t it. It started off so unbelievably far fetched and then she had to throw in a little boy wearing a princess shirt… and then gets all preachy with social issues…. nope. That’s all I needed to read to know it was going to be a dnf for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2024
Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon AU / Amazon CA
Mavis is back in town with her son, but isn't planning on staying long. But running into a clearly sick Clay on the side of the road, may derail that plan when she finds her long held crush blooming.
Clay has a savior complex. So when his savior looks like she clearly needs some saving too, Clay knows he has to be the one to do it. He'll need to be gentle about it, and quick, because not only is Mavis not planning on sticking around, but she's very understandably skittish, AND has a son to think of and protect. Living in such close proximity to each other has their feelings growing by the day, and could see her plans changing, if she can learn to trust again.
This is such a sweet story! I love how understanding and gentle Clay is with Mavis, and even more, how great he is with her son. Her son could have been a big issue if Clay had been a different type of man, thank God for Mavis he was the sweetheart he was with a huge heart. There's a dash of suspense, but it doesn't take away from the sweet relationship, and the small town residents of Sterling Falls are present and offer lots of love and support to this couple.
ARC provided by Wordsmith Publicity for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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September 12, 2024
Sterling Clay is a story that just makes you feel good. Bad things do happen, there are bad people and real danger, but the good people are so good, so honest, so true that you can’t help but feel hopeful all will be well in the end. The sense of family and loyalty warm you all over.
Clay Sylver is the second oldest of the Sylver siblings. After their mother died and their father became a monster Clay and oldest brother Stone raised the rest of the family, doing their best to protect them from their father’s capricious cruelty, and growing up very quickly in the process. Clay keeps to himself for the most part, well-known in town, close to his family, expertly and successfully running Sylver Seed & Soil, but spending most of his time working, and with zero interest in a serious relationship. There was a woman who was a “might have been” once, but she was married and there was never anything more than casual conversation between them - besides an overpowering feeling of familiarity and comfort when they happened to meet. And that was that. Sure, he might be a little lonely, but his life is full and it’s good. And he has all he needs, right?
Mavis Grant just happens to be that woman from the past. Not sure she can really be considered the one that got away when there never was anything between them, but she felt that same pull Clay did. Her life was complicated, though. Her husband Wesley wasn’t the supposedly successful businessman she met but in fact an evil, lying con man. He became abusive to Mavis and cruel to her son Dutton. When she made plans to leave, there was suddenly a fire that was started with Mavis and Dutton inside and that nearly burned the house down. She and Dutton survived and fled to her parents. She hasn’t been back to Sterling Falls since.
Dutton is an adorable little boy. He’s had a lot of hardship in his six short years, and all Mavis wants is to be sure he feels safe and loved. And if liking the Power Princess and wearing pink and having his nails painted makes him feel that way, Mavis is all for it. He’s a little boy; why force him into a role? Except Wesley taunted him and even though Mavis’s father wasn’t cruel, he wasn’t on board with the idea, either.
So it’s time for Mavis and Dutton to move on. Mavis never was comfortable in the motorcycle club life her parents lead and her sister was part of. She wanted that traditional family with the picket fence and a dog. She thought at one time that was what Wesley wanted too. The house in Sterling Falls is in her name, she doesn’t think Wesley is following them, and she intends to do the necessary repairs, sell the house, and get out of town. Too bad things don’t always go according to plan.
A chance encounter with a sick Clay in a broken-down truck on the rainy night Mavis and Dutton pull into town leads to unusual living arrangements, feelings that become increasingly harder to ignore, and one of the most delightful stories you’ll ever read. They still feel that pull between them, but it’s not that easy. Mavis has a lot of problems to solve and except for being Mama Bear to her boy Dutton’s cub, her self-confidence is at zero thanks to Wesley and his treatment of her. Clay is a good man who is always ready to help, but he’s a loner wary of relationships. Except – something strong keeps pulling him towards them, making him wonder where thoughts like “Maybe there could be a Papa Bear to go with that Mama Bear and cub” and “I’d like to have them here all the time” come from. It feels so right though; he’s a goner before he even realizes it.
Clay is 43 and Mavis is almost 40, not teenagers but mature people who have lived life, experienced hardship and tragedy, had to be strong. And cautious. The Sylver family is welcoming and encouraging but worried about their brother, because Clay and Mavis go through a lot in this story: things that can be addressed like misunderstandings, suspicion, and fear of being hurt, but also threatening phone calls and letters, break ins, attacks, and kidnapping. Who is doing this? Is it Wesley? Who is that strange man that’s approached Clay more than once? Could something even more horrible than that fire happen?
Sterling Clay is expertly plotted with well-developed characters and situations to keep you engrossed from beginning to end. L. B. Dunbar has done it again: people you can’t help but love, adorable children, believable villains, steamy, scorchy, smootchy scenes and a lot of humor. If you get the chance to listen to the audiobook version do so! Narrators Willa James and Oliver Highpoint do an outstanding job of bringing this story to life. Willa James captures Mavis’s fear and uncertainty about life, her fierceness about Dutton and her longing and desire for Clay perfectly. Oliver Highpoint has a deep, smooth, throaty drawl and makes you feel every bit of Clay’s wariness, his surprise at his rapidly growing feels, his protective and tenderness towards his Butterfly, and his growling anger and determination when they are threatened. Thanks to the author for providing both an advance reading and listening copy of Sterling Clay. I loved it and recommend it without hesitation and advise you to read everything about Sterling Falls. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Clay Sylver is the second oldest of the Sylver siblings. After their mother died and their father became a monster Clay and oldest brother Stone raised the rest of the family, doing their best to protect them from their father’s capricious cruelty, and growing up very quickly in the process. Clay keeps to himself for the most part, well-known in town, close to his family, expertly and successfully running Sylver Seed & Soil, but spending most of his time working, and with zero interest in a serious relationship. There was a woman who was a “might have been” once, but she was married and there was never anything more than casual conversation between them - besides an overpowering feeling of familiarity and comfort when they happened to meet. And that was that. Sure, he might be a little lonely, but his life is full and it’s good. And he has all he needs, right?
Mavis Grant just happens to be that woman from the past. Not sure she can really be considered the one that got away when there never was anything between them, but she felt that same pull Clay did. Her life was complicated, though. Her husband Wesley wasn’t the supposedly successful businessman she met but in fact an evil, lying con man. He became abusive to Mavis and cruel to her son Dutton. When she made plans to leave, there was suddenly a fire that was started with Mavis and Dutton inside and that nearly burned the house down. She and Dutton survived and fled to her parents. She hasn’t been back to Sterling Falls since.
Dutton is an adorable little boy. He’s had a lot of hardship in his six short years, and all Mavis wants is to be sure he feels safe and loved. And if liking the Power Princess and wearing pink and having his nails painted makes him feel that way, Mavis is all for it. He’s a little boy; why force him into a role? Except Wesley taunted him and even though Mavis’s father wasn’t cruel, he wasn’t on board with the idea, either.
So it’s time for Mavis and Dutton to move on. Mavis never was comfortable in the motorcycle club life her parents lead and her sister was part of. She wanted that traditional family with the picket fence and a dog. She thought at one time that was what Wesley wanted too. The house in Sterling Falls is in her name, she doesn’t think Wesley is following them, and she intends to do the necessary repairs, sell the house, and get out of town. Too bad things don’t always go according to plan.
A chance encounter with a sick Clay in a broken-down truck on the rainy night Mavis and Dutton pull into town leads to unusual living arrangements, feelings that become increasingly harder to ignore, and one of the most delightful stories you’ll ever read. They still feel that pull between them, but it’s not that easy. Mavis has a lot of problems to solve and except for being Mama Bear to her boy Dutton’s cub, her self-confidence is at zero thanks to Wesley and his treatment of her. Clay is a good man who is always ready to help, but he’s a loner wary of relationships. Except – something strong keeps pulling him towards them, making him wonder where thoughts like “Maybe there could be a Papa Bear to go with that Mama Bear and cub” and “I’d like to have them here all the time” come from. It feels so right though; he’s a goner before he even realizes it.
Clay is 43 and Mavis is almost 40, not teenagers but mature people who have lived life, experienced hardship and tragedy, had to be strong. And cautious. The Sylver family is welcoming and encouraging but worried about their brother, because Clay and Mavis go through a lot in this story: things that can be addressed like misunderstandings, suspicion, and fear of being hurt, but also threatening phone calls and letters, break ins, attacks, and kidnapping. Who is doing this? Is it Wesley? Who is that strange man that’s approached Clay more than once? Could something even more horrible than that fire happen?
Sterling Clay is expertly plotted with well-developed characters and situations to keep you engrossed from beginning to end. L. B. Dunbar has done it again: people you can’t help but love, adorable children, believable villains, steamy, scorchy, smootchy scenes and a lot of humor. If you get the chance to listen to the audiobook version do so! Narrators Willa James and Oliver Highpoint do an outstanding job of bringing this story to life. Willa James captures Mavis’s fear and uncertainty about life, her fierceness about Dutton and her longing and desire for Clay perfectly. Oliver Highpoint has a deep, smooth, throaty drawl and makes you feel every bit of Clay’s wariness, his surprise at his rapidly growing feels, his protective and tenderness towards his Butterfly, and his growling anger and determination when they are threatened. Thanks to the author for providing both an advance reading and listening copy of Sterling Clay. I loved it and recommend it without hesitation and advise you to read everything about Sterling Falls. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
September 7, 2024
A passionate love story with Gigantic Love-Filled Hearts for all humankind. Dunbar's mature style of writing stories constantly blow me away. She lands her finger on the pulse of humanity, gives us hope that as long as there are accepting people like her characters, we can survive as a society.
Her boundless talent is making stories make sense, that's why she will always continue to flourish and excel at her craft
And this book has powerful lines that had me tearing up.
"She’s curled around Dutton, protecting him as best she can from the evils of this world. Violence. Ignorance. Hatred.
Saving the world starts with loving your child."
It's easily the MOST ENDEARING BOOK of this year. In a world of judgements and bias, this microtrope is a beacon of hope. A child ridiculed by grown Ass, so called adults for his playtoy choices, colour choices, apparel choices, entertainment choices....I swear my heart wanted to leap out and envelope dear Dutton in its embrace.
“Love is love, Clay. And I love Dutton more than anything in this world. He’s discovering who he is. Who he wants to be, who he’s destined to be, and I’m giving him the freedom he needs to define himself in a world that wants to label everything.”
**Omg I'm bawling right now **
There's a small town home returning Mavis Grant, who has a 6 year old son strapped in the back seat of her car. When she rescues Clayton Sylver from the side of the road in drenching rain.
She stays to nurse him back to health and falls for him like men fall in flu. Out for the count!
The love, the connection, the palpable chemistry is all there for us to enjoy, but Dunbar has gone beyond parameters to include Gender Identity Crisis and the intolerant outrage on behalf of the adults suffering from ostrich syndrome and fearing change.
Clay is superhuman with heart as big as ALL of Sterling Falls, where Dutton and Mavis find their safe haven. I'm so proud of him, of open minded people like him. Although he does suffer from Damsels In Distress Syndrome , this feeling he has in his chest isn't just that. It's flutter of dormant heart waking up to life.
God knows we need more of them, especially now.
I need to stress it's AGAIN - we need to read more of Dunbar books. Her acute observation of women over 35 is bang on. Her sensitive take on life, brings hope with every book that love doesn't END at 23 (age of most heroines in indie romance).that's when it STARTS. How she places it on a parallel track of life & responsibilities, reeks of prudent realism. Hats off to you lady.
Un. Condition. Al 5 stars
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Her boundless talent is making stories make sense, that's why she will always continue to flourish and excel at her craft
And this book has powerful lines that had me tearing up.
"She’s curled around Dutton, protecting him as best she can from the evils of this world. Violence. Ignorance. Hatred.
Saving the world starts with loving your child."
It's easily the MOST ENDEARING BOOK of this year. In a world of judgements and bias, this microtrope is a beacon of hope. A child ridiculed by grown Ass, so called adults for his playtoy choices, colour choices, apparel choices, entertainment choices....I swear my heart wanted to leap out and envelope dear Dutton in its embrace.
“Love is love, Clay. And I love Dutton more than anything in this world. He’s discovering who he is. Who he wants to be, who he’s destined to be, and I’m giving him the freedom he needs to define himself in a world that wants to label everything.”
**Omg I'm bawling right now **
There's a small town home returning Mavis Grant, who has a 6 year old son strapped in the back seat of her car. When she rescues Clayton Sylver from the side of the road in drenching rain.
She stays to nurse him back to health and falls for him like men fall in flu. Out for the count!
The love, the connection, the palpable chemistry is all there for us to enjoy, but Dunbar has gone beyond parameters to include Gender Identity Crisis and the intolerant outrage on behalf of the adults suffering from ostrich syndrome and fearing change.
Clay is superhuman with heart as big as ALL of Sterling Falls, where Dutton and Mavis find their safe haven. I'm so proud of him, of open minded people like him. Although he does suffer from Damsels In Distress Syndrome , this feeling he has in his chest isn't just that. It's flutter of dormant heart waking up to life.
God knows we need more of them, especially now.
I need to stress it's AGAIN - we need to read more of Dunbar books. Her acute observation of women over 35 is bang on. Her sensitive take on life, brings hope with every book that love doesn't END at 23 (age of most heroines in indie romance).that's when it STARTS. How she places it on a parallel track of life & responsibilities, reeks of prudent realism. Hats off to you lady.
Un. Condition. Al 5 stars
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September 23, 2024
🎧🎧AUDIO and E-BOOK REVIEW🎧🎧
The stories of L.B. Dunbar are always a delight for me to read or listen to. As a woman in her fifties, I totally relate to her style of the silver fox, late-in-life romances. The characters have already sowed their wild oats and have maturity on their side. They’ve seen life, had their fun (sometimes), and are just ready for the more that comes with romance after 40.
The Sterling Falls series has been a favorite of mine as well. I love the small-town family feel. The Sterling siblings are a close-knit family—for the most part—and having that family interaction in each book really ties them together and helps you remember all the ups and downs each of them have had.
Clay and Mavis had a 2nd-time-around, meet-cute of sorts, and that’s where the romance starts to bloom. Old feelings are brought to the forefront along with some humor that had me chuckling aloud, which brought some levity. Things move fairly quickly for these two, but it just fits them. They are in that stage of life where taking time just for the sake of taking time isn’t always necessary.
The story moved forward quickly and the characters remained respectful to each other. There are some emotionally driven scenes with sad connotations. Mavis’ situation hit home for me since I am in the same circumstance. Six-year-old boy Dutton was a joy to have in the mix. This added an extra element for Clay and Mavis to navigate when considering a future together. Relationships can be very tricky when there are kids to consider. Getting alone time to explore the possibility of life together isn’t as simple and instantaneous. Clay and Mavis did it well, and this is another place where a close-knit family comes in handy. Thank God for Violet!
I enjoyed the dual narration of Willa Jaymes and Oliver Highpoint. It was my first time listening to both of them and I thought they matched each other well. I would not hesitate to listen to them again. They brought life to the characters, which made them feel so real. While I much prefer duet narration, where each character always reads their own parts and the parts of the same-gender characters, I do feel the dual narration of this book was done very well. Each narrator seemed to easily transform their voice for all the other characters they had to portray in their own chapters. That is something that can really make or break a listen for me, and that did not happen with Sterling Clay.
Overall, I enjoyed both the book and the audio. At times I just listened, sometimes I just read, and then other times I listened while reading. Having this flexibility helps me manage my day and still get all the words in. While this wasn’t my favorite in the series, probably due to the lack of angst and emotional upheaval, LOL – I guess I thrive on other people’s troubles, it was great to hear Clay’s story. He’s the oldest brother and has been part of the series since the beginning.
The stories of L.B. Dunbar are always a delight for me to read or listen to. As a woman in her fifties, I totally relate to her style of the silver fox, late-in-life romances. The characters have already sowed their wild oats and have maturity on their side. They’ve seen life, had their fun (sometimes), and are just ready for the more that comes with romance after 40.
The Sterling Falls series has been a favorite of mine as well. I love the small-town family feel. The Sterling siblings are a close-knit family—for the most part—and having that family interaction in each book really ties them together and helps you remember all the ups and downs each of them have had.
Clay and Mavis had a 2nd-time-around, meet-cute of sorts, and that’s where the romance starts to bloom. Old feelings are brought to the forefront along with some humor that had me chuckling aloud, which brought some levity. Things move fairly quickly for these two, but it just fits them. They are in that stage of life where taking time just for the sake of taking time isn’t always necessary.
The story moved forward quickly and the characters remained respectful to each other. There are some emotionally driven scenes with sad connotations. Mavis’ situation hit home for me since I am in the same circumstance. Six-year-old boy Dutton was a joy to have in the mix. This added an extra element for Clay and Mavis to navigate when considering a future together. Relationships can be very tricky when there are kids to consider. Getting alone time to explore the possibility of life together isn’t as simple and instantaneous. Clay and Mavis did it well, and this is another place where a close-knit family comes in handy. Thank God for Violet!
I enjoyed the dual narration of Willa Jaymes and Oliver Highpoint. It was my first time listening to both of them and I thought they matched each other well. I would not hesitate to listen to them again. They brought life to the characters, which made them feel so real. While I much prefer duet narration, where each character always reads their own parts and the parts of the same-gender characters, I do feel the dual narration of this book was done very well. Each narrator seemed to easily transform their voice for all the other characters they had to portray in their own chapters. That is something that can really make or break a listen for me, and that did not happen with Sterling Clay.
Overall, I enjoyed both the book and the audio. At times I just listened, sometimes I just read, and then other times I listened while reading. Having this flexibility helps me manage my day and still get all the words in. While this wasn’t my favorite in the series, probably due to the lack of angst and emotional upheaval, LOL – I guess I thrive on other people’s troubles, it was great to hear Clay’s story. He’s the oldest brother and has been part of the series since the beginning.
February 28, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (Thank you LB Dunbar for that office scene)
When I realized that Mavis was the woman who lived acrossed the street from Halle. I was interested in knowing what happened since she and her son basically disappeared. And I liked how connected LB Dunbar's books are.
I have a new favorite! Good Lord this book. I think Sterling Clay might be the spiciest LB Dunbar book I have read thus far. Clay and Mavis had my clutching my pearls and fanning myself. Secret crushes always blow me away with how explosive they usually are.
I have nothing bad to say about Sterling Clay. The story is straight forward, Mavis and Clay had decent communication and any reservations about trust was understandable. I loved that Clay and Mavis had previous feelings for each other, which was amazing to watch grow. No annoying third act breakup 🙌🏾.
Great spice, perfectly placed humor and unexpected twists. Despite being short the characters were well developed and I felt the pacing was good. Spicy with an air of suspense. Both Clay and Mavis deserved each other and the happiness they found together.
“I’d never kiss you like I kiss someone else, butterfly. A kiss between us would be unique. Special and beautiful, like you.” Clay is another example of how fictional men written by women are simply perfection. 😍
Clay and his siblings are just awesome people. Their support and encouragement of Dutton was chef's kiss!
The bonus epilogue had me sobbing!!!
"The Sylver effect.” aka times Clay made me fangirl:
"Long ago I determined I was destined to be alone. But I wanted more. Man, did I want more." I felt this in my spirit 😭
“There’s this moment. When I’m just outside of you. And my heart hammers with anticipation.”
“And then, I enter you.” He nudges forward, spreading me, opening me, taking his time to glide into me. “And my chest nearly bursts. I’m so full from how I feel about you.”
"I have hours to love her like we both need, and I’m not wasting a minute of it."
Possible spoiler:
I don't know what kind of man Mavis's father is. But he sounds hot 🤣 and his mysterious club members seem interesting. Now I'm going to need LB Dunbar to write a MC romance series.
Personal sidenote:
As someone with a savior complex, and wanting to make everyone around me happy. I fully connected to Clay and the need to have someone "save me". It's a lonely feeling, often resulting in watching other prosper, while you feel stagnant. Needless to say this book was an emotional read for me. Hopefully I find someone one day that allows me to turn off the noise, and they take control.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (Thank you LB Dunbar for that office scene)
When I realized that Mavis was the woman who lived acrossed the street from Halle. I was interested in knowing what happened since she and her son basically disappeared. And I liked how connected LB Dunbar's books are.
I have a new favorite! Good Lord this book. I think Sterling Clay might be the spiciest LB Dunbar book I have read thus far. Clay and Mavis had my clutching my pearls and fanning myself. Secret crushes always blow me away with how explosive they usually are.
I have nothing bad to say about Sterling Clay. The story is straight forward, Mavis and Clay had decent communication and any reservations about trust was understandable. I loved that Clay and Mavis had previous feelings for each other, which was amazing to watch grow. No annoying third act breakup 🙌🏾.
Great spice, perfectly placed humor and unexpected twists. Despite being short the characters were well developed and I felt the pacing was good. Spicy with an air of suspense. Both Clay and Mavis deserved each other and the happiness they found together.
“I’d never kiss you like I kiss someone else, butterfly. A kiss between us would be unique. Special and beautiful, like you.” Clay is another example of how fictional men written by women are simply perfection. 😍
Clay and his siblings are just awesome people. Their support and encouragement of Dutton was chef's kiss!
The bonus epilogue had me sobbing!!!
"The Sylver effect.” aka times Clay made me fangirl:
"Long ago I determined I was destined to be alone. But I wanted more. Man, did I want more." I felt this in my spirit 😭
“There’s this moment. When I’m just outside of you. And my heart hammers with anticipation.”
“And then, I enter you.” He nudges forward, spreading me, opening me, taking his time to glide into me. “And my chest nearly bursts. I’m so full from how I feel about you.”
"I have hours to love her like we both need, and I’m not wasting a minute of it."
Possible spoiler:
I don't know what kind of man Mavis's father is. But he sounds hot 🤣 and his mysterious club members seem interesting. Now I'm going to need LB Dunbar to write a MC romance series.
Personal sidenote:
As someone with a savior complex, and wanting to make everyone around me happy. I fully connected to Clay and the need to have someone "save me". It's a lonely feeling, often resulting in watching other prosper, while you feel stagnant. Needless to say this book was an emotional read for me. Hopefully I find someone one day that allows me to turn off the noise, and they take control.
September 20, 2024
Wonderful Story & Narration🎧 Compelling & Heartfelt!
Sterling Clay
Sterling Falls
By: L.B. Dunbar
Narrated by: Willa James, Oliver Hightower
It is great to be back in L.B. Dunbar’s Sterling Falls, one of my favorite places to visit and spend time in, for another fabulous novel, a romantic suspense that not only captivates your attention the entire time, but tugs on your heartstrings too. Each book features a different Sylver brother and this fourth book is silver fox Clay Sylver and Mavis’ story. Mavis is a single mom of an adorable son, Dutton, and they are back in Sterling Falls to so she could settle with her insurance company for her former home that was destroyed by fire. Clay and Mavis have history and used to have crushes on each other when they were younger, but she got involved with someone else, who turned out to be abusive and that relationship that did not end well. She runs into Clay, who was sick and then helped take care of him, and without somewhere to be she stayed, with her son, at his home to help nurse him back to health. As grumpy as he first was, he was grateful for what she did and after learning they had nowhere to stay, he offered them his spare room. I loved how Clay was with her son and accepted him for how he was, while keeping it all real. I thought Clay and Mavis were perfect together and for each other, and it was great to watch them fall for each other despite their own insecurities about relationships. There is never a dull moment in this book and there is plenty of drama, a tough of angst, some surprising twists and turns, thrilling and suspenseful moments and a slow burn but so worth the wait romance. The writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. L.B. Dunbar, thank you for another wonderful story and emotional roller coaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Willa James and Oliver Hightower were fabulous at bringing these characters to life and did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting and showcased every aspect of their character’s personality and was believable in every role. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling each one. These two made a great narration team, their voices complemented each other and their performance elevated the already amazing story to another level. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the wonderful listen.
Sterling Clay
Sterling Falls
By: L.B. Dunbar
Narrated by: Willa James, Oliver Hightower
It is great to be back in L.B. Dunbar’s Sterling Falls, one of my favorite places to visit and spend time in, for another fabulous novel, a romantic suspense that not only captivates your attention the entire time, but tugs on your heartstrings too. Each book features a different Sylver brother and this fourth book is silver fox Clay Sylver and Mavis’ story. Mavis is a single mom of an adorable son, Dutton, and they are back in Sterling Falls to so she could settle with her insurance company for her former home that was destroyed by fire. Clay and Mavis have history and used to have crushes on each other when they were younger, but she got involved with someone else, who turned out to be abusive and that relationship that did not end well. She runs into Clay, who was sick and then helped take care of him, and without somewhere to be she stayed, with her son, at his home to help nurse him back to health. As grumpy as he first was, he was grateful for what she did and after learning they had nowhere to stay, he offered them his spare room. I loved how Clay was with her son and accepted him for how he was, while keeping it all real. I thought Clay and Mavis were perfect together and for each other, and it was great to watch them fall for each other despite their own insecurities about relationships. There is never a dull moment in this book and there is plenty of drama, a tough of angst, some surprising twists and turns, thrilling and suspenseful moments and a slow burn but so worth the wait romance. The writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. L.B. Dunbar, thank you for another wonderful story and emotional roller coaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Willa James and Oliver Hightower were fabulous at bringing these characters to life and did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting and showcased every aspect of their character’s personality and was believable in every role. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling each one. These two made a great narration team, their voices complemented each other and their performance elevated the already amazing story to another level. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the wonderful listen.
October 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
What I love about LB’s books is her ability to weave together a storyline that has so much love, heart, loyalty, and romance. Her story’s in the Sterling Falls series focuses on two people falling in love, even after tragedy, but also how the Sylver family shows up for each other. Through good and bad, family is the most important thing to the siblings and they love and protect fiercely.
Mavis has returned to the only place she felt as home, but not sure how the town’s people will welcome her back. Last time she was in Sterling Falls she and her son had been rescued from their home going up in flames and her “husband” was nowhere to be found. She left to heal, but realized shortly after, Sterling Falls is where she wanted to belong. Mavis is a strong, resilient, DV survivor, that is slowly, but surely, putting herself back together for herself and her son.
Clay lost his mother at a young age and ended up raising the majority of his siblings after his father never recovered from that loss. He’s never thought being in love was for him, as he’s seen the toll it can take on a man when he loses the love of his life, but secretly wishes for a great love. When he realizes Mavis has returned, he wants to be whatever she and her son need to feel safe, protected, at home.
Slowly these two create a home and family, neither ever thought possible.
LB writes a wonderful story about home not being a location necessarily, but rather the feeling you get from others. That when you are busy always saving others, you can easily overlook where you need saving as well. And the importance of letting people be who they are. Not meaning accepting poor behavior or disrespect, but who they are at the core of their being.
As I have a young boy who loves pink and glitter, it was wonderful to read about a mom who is raising her son to be unapologetically himself. Never letting gender define what he can and can’t like, encouraging him to be himself, and seeing his heart and soul. It was a very relatable relationship and one that I felt in my soul.
As always review trigger warnings before reading.
Tropes:
🦋Missed Chance Romance
🐻Small Town Romance
🦋Found Family
🐻Savior Complex MMC
🦋Single Mom FMC
🐻Roommates
🦋They Save Each Other
What I love about LB’s books is her ability to weave together a storyline that has so much love, heart, loyalty, and romance. Her story’s in the Sterling Falls series focuses on two people falling in love, even after tragedy, but also how the Sylver family shows up for each other. Through good and bad, family is the most important thing to the siblings and they love and protect fiercely.
Mavis has returned to the only place she felt as home, but not sure how the town’s people will welcome her back. Last time she was in Sterling Falls she and her son had been rescued from their home going up in flames and her “husband” was nowhere to be found. She left to heal, but realized shortly after, Sterling Falls is where she wanted to belong. Mavis is a strong, resilient, DV survivor, that is slowly, but surely, putting herself back together for herself and her son.
Clay lost his mother at a young age and ended up raising the majority of his siblings after his father never recovered from that loss. He’s never thought being in love was for him, as he’s seen the toll it can take on a man when he loses the love of his life, but secretly wishes for a great love. When he realizes Mavis has returned, he wants to be whatever she and her son need to feel safe, protected, at home.
Slowly these two create a home and family, neither ever thought possible.
LB writes a wonderful story about home not being a location necessarily, but rather the feeling you get from others. That when you are busy always saving others, you can easily overlook where you need saving as well. And the importance of letting people be who they are. Not meaning accepting poor behavior or disrespect, but who they are at the core of their being.
As I have a young boy who loves pink and glitter, it was wonderful to read about a mom who is raising her son to be unapologetically himself. Never letting gender define what he can and can’t like, encouraging him to be himself, and seeing his heart and soul. It was a very relatable relationship and one that I felt in my soul.
As always review trigger warnings before reading.
Tropes:
🦋Missed Chance Romance
🐻Small Town Romance
🦋Found Family
🐻Savior Complex MMC
🦋Single Mom FMC
🐻Roommates
🦋They Save Each Other
October 2, 2024
These Sylver men always have me swooning, and Clay gets HIS story in this book by LB Dunbar. Clay is one of the elder Sylver brothers who has always shouldered responsibility and duty to his family (you will find out why as you read). He’s in his early-ish 40’s, has never been married, no kids. His run-in with Mavis is purely coincidental; she is driving and spots him on the side of the road with his broken down truck. He’s soaked from the rain and sick. She drives him home and stays with him, and from here the story takes off.
Mavis is a single-mom to Dutton, a 6 year old boy who prefers to dress unconventionally. What I love about this mother/son relationship is that Mavis has nurtured Dutton’s soul, and is fiercely protective of him. They have their own shared trauma, thanks to Mavis’s ex, and have been able to build a sense of normalcy between them since then. But they are still searching for their own sense of “home” and belonging.
What I loved so much about reading this story is that Clay and Mavis already had some familiarity; they were not complete strangers, so my buy in was immediate. Clay’s character is stand-offish at first and Mavis is a thousand percent cautious of getting close to him. The way Clay builds trust with Mavis and Dutton is so beautiful. He messes up from time to time, but he acknowledges it and fixes it.
I was moved by how Clay giving Mavis security and stability allows her to find her way back to herself. She had been a shell of a woman; and Clay (and the rest of the Sylver family) lift her and Dutton up. When Clay and Mavis share some intimacy and he gives HER control, she is able to reclaim her own power. It’s beautiful. Clay also lifts Dutton’s confidence. Dutton prefers to dress in stereotypical “girl” colors, his favorite tv character is a princess, he likes his nails painted. Clay is honest that he doesn’t understand….but then he observes, takes notice and shows up for Dutton time and time again.
This was a great ARC read. I’m always a sucker for a single parent, and when Clay refers to Dutton as “his boy”, well, that gets me every time.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥
Mavis is a single-mom to Dutton, a 6 year old boy who prefers to dress unconventionally. What I love about this mother/son relationship is that Mavis has nurtured Dutton’s soul, and is fiercely protective of him. They have their own shared trauma, thanks to Mavis’s ex, and have been able to build a sense of normalcy between them since then. But they are still searching for their own sense of “home” and belonging.
What I loved so much about reading this story is that Clay and Mavis already had some familiarity; they were not complete strangers, so my buy in was immediate. Clay’s character is stand-offish at first and Mavis is a thousand percent cautious of getting close to him. The way Clay builds trust with Mavis and Dutton is so beautiful. He messes up from time to time, but he acknowledges it and fixes it.
I was moved by how Clay giving Mavis security and stability allows her to find her way back to herself. She had been a shell of a woman; and Clay (and the rest of the Sylver family) lift her and Dutton up. When Clay and Mavis share some intimacy and he gives HER control, she is able to reclaim her own power. It’s beautiful. Clay also lifts Dutton’s confidence. Dutton prefers to dress in stereotypical “girl” colors, his favorite tv character is a princess, he likes his nails painted. Clay is honest that he doesn’t understand….but then he observes, takes notice and shows up for Dutton time and time again.
This was a great ARC read. I’m always a sucker for a single parent, and when Clay refers to Dutton as “his boy”, well, that gets me every time.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥
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