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The Art of Love #4
Forged
The Art of Love is awakening to things you never knew about yourself with someone you thought was just a friend….
Nick Turner has always been the big, shy, silent type. He’s always let his metalwork and blacksmithing skills speak for him. But now, as a widower with two small children to raise in the midst of the eccentric Hawthorne family and a sculpture that needs completing to make the deadline for a national competition, he knows he’s in over his head.
Thank God for Baxter Hawthorne dropping into his life…
Bax Hawthorne is the black sheep of his family. He’s an accountant in a sea of artists. But that doesn’t mean he’s not just as free-spirited and ambitious as his kin. The one thing he never thought he’d be, however, was a father. But when he’s thrown into proximity with Nick and ends up helping to take care of his kids in a pinch, all that might change.
Nick could have sworn he was straight, but the closer he gets to Bax, the more he questions that. Could one night of sparks between them end up forging a bond that brings the whole family together?
Forged is a low-angst, single father, bi-awakening, friends-to-lovers story filled with heart…and a lot of meddling by the eccentric Hawthorne family. Look for a cameo by The Brotherhood as well!
Nick Turner has always been the big, shy, silent type. He’s always let his metalwork and blacksmithing skills speak for him. But now, as a widower with two small children to raise in the midst of the eccentric Hawthorne family and a sculpture that needs completing to make the deadline for a national competition, he knows he’s in over his head.
Thank God for Baxter Hawthorne dropping into his life…
Bax Hawthorne is the black sheep of his family. He’s an accountant in a sea of artists. But that doesn’t mean he’s not just as free-spirited and ambitious as his kin. The one thing he never thought he’d be, however, was a father. But when he’s thrown into proximity with Nick and ends up helping to take care of his kids in a pinch, all that might change.
Nick could have sworn he was straight, but the closer he gets to Bax, the more he questions that. Could one night of sparks between them end up forging a bond that brings the whole family together?
Forged is a low-angst, single father, bi-awakening, friends-to-lovers story filled with heart…and a lot of meddling by the eccentric Hawthorne family. Look for a cameo by The Brotherhood as well!
- GenresM M RomanceRomanceLGBT
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2025
96 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Merry Farmer
292 books1,137 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 11, 2025
Forged is the fourth book in the ‘Art of Love’ series. It stars Nick Turner, a blacksmith and metalworker, and Bax Hawthorne, an accountant. This is told in third person from Nick and Bax’s povs.
The blurb does a good job of describing the plot so I won’t go over it too much. Nick is the widower who was married to Raina Hawthorne. She was killed in a car accident. Nick is left to raise their two children while also teaching metalwork classes at the Hawthorne school, and trying to complete a metal sculpture for a competition. He is stressed out, and having difficulty staying on top of everything.
I really liked Nick. When I first read about him in Book Three, I thought he was the take charge kind of guy who was as loud and rambunctious as the Hawthornes. That wasn’t the case. He’s the opposite of them, quiet, doesn’t like to cause problems for anyone, and tries to take on all the responsibility. He’s accepted that Raina has passed, and he’s doing the best he can to raise the kids. Here’s where I have a beef with the Hawthorne family. Nick was really struggling, but the only people who helped occasionally were the Hawthorne grandparents, when they looked after the kids, and it didn’t sound like they helped all that much. Nick had to hire a babysitter, and of course there was Nick’s mom who was a real witch. I’ll talk more about her later. But first the Hawthornes. These people are supposed to be all about family and there were more than enough people and their partners, to help look after the kids, but did they offer? No. Not until the big conflict at the end when suddenly…they realized that Nick was so overwhelmed he was going to do something drastic. This showed me how self-absorbed all the Hawthornes and their partners were. So wrapped up in their own lives, they ignored a member of their own family who was drowning in too much responsibility.
Now, Nick’s mother. She was written up as the typical shrieking, female witch. She was like a ‘Karen.’ There weren’t any redeeming features about her, except taking care of the kids, at an emotional cost to Nick. She meddled in Nick’s life. Had a key to his apartment which was bizarre, like what if he had company over and didn’t want to be disturbed? She could just walk right in. Nick was dumb about that, because letting her have a key let her cross too many boundaries.
Bax, was a selfish character. He liked being free to have any partner he wanted at any time, especially during the pagan ceremonies he was a part of. He only offered to help Nick look after the kids because he wanted in Nick’s pants. Emotionally, Bax was waffling to the point that Nick was willing to make a huge sacrifice to keep Bax. Bax was a selfish jerk like the rest of the Hawthorne family. It took a lot for Bax to reach his epiphany about Nick and relationships. I can’t completely believe in Nick and Bax as a couple because Bax was so anti children and monogamy for too long. But Nick was happy with him. The author created distinct characters for these two men and they evolved throughout the story, especially Bax.
I liked how the author used the word 'needs' from Nick's pov. He often mentioned in the story how he knew Bax had needs, like when Bax was with his pagan group, and that Nick was having a hard time giving Bax the attention Bax needed and the sex he wanted. Nick wanted to fulfill Bax's needs. This told me that Nick was thoughtful and kind. Whereas Bax was thinking, 'I have needs,' which showed his self-centeredness concerning their relationship. I like how using the word 'needs' like that told a lot about the characters.
This is a heavily character driven plot with incidents that set-off relationship conflicts, so I don’t want to describe all the incidents. I enjoyed Forged mostly because of Nick. I thought the rest of the Hawthornes showed their self-centeredness, and Nick’s mother was an over-the-top, controlling witch. I found the behavior of so many family members unpleasant, that it affected my enjoyment of this book. I give this story, 4 Stars.
I received and ARC from the author, and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The blurb does a good job of describing the plot so I won’t go over it too much. Nick is the widower who was married to Raina Hawthorne. She was killed in a car accident. Nick is left to raise their two children while also teaching metalwork classes at the Hawthorne school, and trying to complete a metal sculpture for a competition. He is stressed out, and having difficulty staying on top of everything.
I really liked Nick. When I first read about him in Book Three, I thought he was the take charge kind of guy who was as loud and rambunctious as the Hawthornes. That wasn’t the case. He’s the opposite of them, quiet, doesn’t like to cause problems for anyone, and tries to take on all the responsibility. He’s accepted that Raina has passed, and he’s doing the best he can to raise the kids. Here’s where I have a beef with the Hawthorne family. Nick was really struggling, but the only people who helped occasionally were the Hawthorne grandparents, when they looked after the kids, and it didn’t sound like they helped all that much. Nick had to hire a babysitter, and of course there was Nick’s mom who was a real witch. I’ll talk more about her later. But first the Hawthornes. These people are supposed to be all about family and there were more than enough people and their partners, to help look after the kids, but did they offer? No. Not until the big conflict at the end when suddenly…they realized that Nick was so overwhelmed he was going to do something drastic. This showed me how self-absorbed all the Hawthornes and their partners were. So wrapped up in their own lives, they ignored a member of their own family who was drowning in too much responsibility.
Now, Nick’s mother. She was written up as the typical shrieking, female witch. She was like a ‘Karen.’ There weren’t any redeeming features about her, except taking care of the kids, at an emotional cost to Nick. She meddled in Nick’s life. Had a key to his apartment which was bizarre, like what if he had company over and didn’t want to be disturbed? She could just walk right in. Nick was dumb about that, because letting her have a key let her cross too many boundaries.
Bax, was a selfish character. He liked being free to have any partner he wanted at any time, especially during the pagan ceremonies he was a part of. He only offered to help Nick look after the kids because he wanted in Nick’s pants. Emotionally, Bax was waffling to the point that Nick was willing to make a huge sacrifice to keep Bax. Bax was a selfish jerk like the rest of the Hawthorne family. It took a lot for Bax to reach his epiphany about Nick and relationships. I can’t completely believe in Nick and Bax as a couple because Bax was so anti children and monogamy for too long. But Nick was happy with him. The author created distinct characters for these two men and they evolved throughout the story, especially Bax.
I liked how the author used the word 'needs' from Nick's pov. He often mentioned in the story how he knew Bax had needs, like when Bax was with his pagan group, and that Nick was having a hard time giving Bax the attention Bax needed and the sex he wanted. Nick wanted to fulfill Bax's needs. This told me that Nick was thoughtful and kind. Whereas Bax was thinking, 'I have needs,' which showed his self-centeredness concerning their relationship. I like how using the word 'needs' like that told a lot about the characters.
This is a heavily character driven plot with incidents that set-off relationship conflicts, so I don’t want to describe all the incidents. I enjoyed Forged mostly because of Nick. I thought the rest of the Hawthornes showed their self-centeredness, and Nick’s mother was an over-the-top, controlling witch. I found the behavior of so many family members unpleasant, that it affected my enjoyment of this book. I give this story, 4 Stars.
I received and ARC from the author, and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
January 31, 2025
The Art of Love is an outstanding series of books each of which explores the potential and possibility of love in all its gloriously rainbow forms. It also invites us into the welcoming arms of the Hawthorne family, demonstrates how with hard work, good will and a strong family bond they have turned around their family home from becoming another ancestral home that has been turned into a hotel or theme park. They have made theirs into something for their community, a place for the arts, for learning, for expanding horizons and a place for all those who are looking to find their place in the world to be able to explore possiblities.
Forged is Nick's story. It is also Bax's story. Nick is the widower of one of the Hawthorne children, he is now a single dad, continuing to live and work in the house and with the family. A blacksmith, he creates and teaches. Balancing his family and his mother who potentially has good intentions but really doesn't understand anything about his life, his family, his work and a potentially new development in his love life...
Bax is the black sheep of the family. Not because he is pagan, the family are incredibly accepting of that part of his life, nor because of his sexuality, the LGBTQ rainbow lives in the house, but because he is an accountant and not an artist in any way! He is struggling though and has come to live in the house to find his feet and hopefully set up his own firm. He has however had to leave his last coven which means leaving his friends and having no one to practice his rituals with. Plus he has been feeling a certain pull towards a certain man for some time now.
Both Nick and Bax have problems to face, to work through, personally and professionally but it could be they don't have to d any of it alone. Certainly the family will be there for them but it could be that they are there for one another too. Sparks, and not just those from the blacksmith's forge are soon flying. Nick is trying to juggle kids, a relationship with his family and a burgeoning understanding of his bi-sexuality. Bax is trying to understand how to move forward, how to potentially build a life with a single father, how to find a new coven or group to practice with and keep his heart in one piece whilst also trying to start a business.
There is a lot packed into this novel, just as there is with each of Merry Farmer's books. Her clear attention to research shines through, she does not gloss over pagan festivals or blacksmithing techniques, not does she hide away from the trials and tribulations of single fatherhood, blossoming romance and well-meaning family members who pop up throughout the story. This story is told with sympathy and understanding but also with a refreshingly open and vibrant feel. It is engaging and engrossing at the same time, a fantastic read and a brilliant series.
Forged is Nick's story. It is also Bax's story. Nick is the widower of one of the Hawthorne children, he is now a single dad, continuing to live and work in the house and with the family. A blacksmith, he creates and teaches. Balancing his family and his mother who potentially has good intentions but really doesn't understand anything about his life, his family, his work and a potentially new development in his love life...
Bax is the black sheep of the family. Not because he is pagan, the family are incredibly accepting of that part of his life, nor because of his sexuality, the LGBTQ rainbow lives in the house, but because he is an accountant and not an artist in any way! He is struggling though and has come to live in the house to find his feet and hopefully set up his own firm. He has however had to leave his last coven which means leaving his friends and having no one to practice his rituals with. Plus he has been feeling a certain pull towards a certain man for some time now.
Both Nick and Bax have problems to face, to work through, personally and professionally but it could be they don't have to d any of it alone. Certainly the family will be there for them but it could be that they are there for one another too. Sparks, and not just those from the blacksmith's forge are soon flying. Nick is trying to juggle kids, a relationship with his family and a burgeoning understanding of his bi-sexuality. Bax is trying to understand how to move forward, how to potentially build a life with a single father, how to find a new coven or group to practice with and keep his heart in one piece whilst also trying to start a business.
There is a lot packed into this novel, just as there is with each of Merry Farmer's books. Her clear attention to research shines through, she does not gloss over pagan festivals or blacksmithing techniques, not does she hide away from the trials and tribulations of single fatherhood, blossoming romance and well-meaning family members who pop up throughout the story. This story is told with sympathy and understanding but also with a refreshingly open and vibrant feel. It is engaging and engrossing at the same time, a fantastic read and a brilliant series.
February 4, 2025
This is the 4th book in the Art of Love series following members of the eccentric and artistic Hawthorne family, most living and working at the Hawthorne Community Arts Center on the Hawthorne Estate. Bax is one of the Hawthorne cousins, recently having left his relationship with his boyfriend, moving to the family estate to go over the Center’s books. He is the odd one in the family, practicing Paganism and with his accounting degree rather than pursuing more artistic endeavors.
Bax has known Nick slightly over the years as his cousin’s widower and father of her children, and an artisan in the Center teaching Blacksmithing/forging. Meeting Nick again, Bax finds himself drawn to and interested in Nick as more than an extended family member, but he isn’t sure whether Nick is straight or may actually have an interest in men also. Nick also has two young children, and Bax has little familiarity with children at all. Once he is certain that Nick is open to a possible relationship, even though Nick is new to the whole interest in men thing, the two spend time together and with the children, and Bax finds himself falling for all three. The developing romance is not without its hurdles, between family and lifestyle changes, multiple responsibilities and claims on time, little alone time to share, and feelings of inadequacies on the parts of both men, but both persevere and there comes an event which pretty much solidifies their commitment to each other and finding ways to make it work.
Lots of interactions with previous characters in the Hawthorne family, brief mention of the Brotherhood and its connection to many of the Hawthorne men, a bit of interesting information on Paganism, and also some initial information on forging techniques past and present. Characters in this series are always engaging and well written, world building for this little slice of England is good background, and stories just flow, making for reads that seem to go faster. The family is an interesting combination of personalities and skills, and they add to the enjoyment of this series. Our next MC is ready in the wings, a glass blower named Rafe, ready to add to the Hawthorne family story and legacy. Looking forward to the next book and more of this quirky family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bax has known Nick slightly over the years as his cousin’s widower and father of her children, and an artisan in the Center teaching Blacksmithing/forging. Meeting Nick again, Bax finds himself drawn to and interested in Nick as more than an extended family member, but he isn’t sure whether Nick is straight or may actually have an interest in men also. Nick also has two young children, and Bax has little familiarity with children at all. Once he is certain that Nick is open to a possible relationship, even though Nick is new to the whole interest in men thing, the two spend time together and with the children, and Bax finds himself falling for all three. The developing romance is not without its hurdles, between family and lifestyle changes, multiple responsibilities and claims on time, little alone time to share, and feelings of inadequacies on the parts of both men, but both persevere and there comes an event which pretty much solidifies their commitment to each other and finding ways to make it work.
Lots of interactions with previous characters in the Hawthorne family, brief mention of the Brotherhood and its connection to many of the Hawthorne men, a bit of interesting information on Paganism, and also some initial information on forging techniques past and present. Characters in this series are always engaging and well written, world building for this little slice of England is good background, and stories just flow, making for reads that seem to go faster. The family is an interesting combination of personalities and skills, and they add to the enjoyment of this series. Our next MC is ready in the wings, a glass blower named Rafe, ready to add to the Hawthorne family story and legacy. Looking forward to the next book and more of this quirky family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2025
Here's Merry Farmer's "Forged." It's the fourth novel in her new series, The Art of Love.
["The Art of Love is awakening to things you never knew about yourself with someone you thought was just a friend….
Nick Turner has always been the big, shy, silent type. He’s always let his metalwork and blacksmithing skills speak for him. But now, as a widower with two small children to raise in the midst of the eccentric Hawthorne family and a sculpture that needs completing to make the deadline for a national competition, he knows he’s in over his head.
Thank God for Baxter Hawthorne dropping into his life…
Bax Hawthorne is the black sheep of his family. He’s an accountant in a sea of artists. But that doesn’t mean he’s not just as free-spirited and ambitious as his kin. The one thing he never thought he’d be, however, was a father. But when he’s thrown into proximity with Nick and ends up helping to take care of his kids in a pinch, all that might change.
Nick could have sworn he was straight, but the closer he gets to Bax, the more he questions that. Could one night of sparks between them end up forging a bond that brings the whole family together?"]
These two were adorable as hell. They both experienced a sort of loss, and they just wanted to be there for each other in any way possible. Their friendship grew and grew. The kiddy cuddles definitely helped. And the well-intended but too-nosy-for-their-own-good meddling Hawthorne family.
Though (yes, I’m saying this knowing it’s coming from an outsider’s POV), they made things super complicated for not a lot of reason. And these kids were little, toddlers, but a little overly babyfied for dramatic effect.
I love this series. I love this family. I love how supportive and open they are. I love how we get to learn so much about so many different arts. Not to mention all of the HEAs.
Trigger Warnings: toxic (but I guess well-meaning?) grandparents, classism, homophobia, the-world-for-religious-hate, and more.
#thrown #painted #decorated #forged #blown #theartoflove #theartofloveseries #merryfarmer #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
June 7, 2025
Straight father of two falls for twin brother of his deceased wife
The "Art of Love" series is based on a rather unusual family that has an estate dedicated to art, where the family and their significant others live. Each entry is named after the art form or circumstance involved.
Bax Hawthorne is the exception; he is not involved in art but is an accountant. His twin is a decorator, described as a 'hot mess,' who finds love in the arms of a RAF member that provides stability and understanding to Blaine Hawthorne.
That same caring nature is rooted in Bax Hawthorne, who falls for the husband of his deceased sister, who is now caring for their two children, one of whom was just one month old when she died in a car accident. Bax is drawn to the big, shy, and silent type that is Nick Turner. He's an artist in metal and seems at home in the blacksmith's shop on the grounds, where he teaches metalwork.
This story explores the romance that grows between Nick and Bax. Although Bax is not comfortable with children, his intense love for Nick blooms and grows over time, leading him to commit to standing beside him in caring for his two young children. Nick's mother disapproves of this same-sex relationship and the pagan religion practiced there. She wants to take the children and raise them herself, rejecting the romance and criticizing her son for being with a man like Bax and for being around the Hawthorne family. This angers Nick, and he seeks to distance his mother from the children. There's a major confrontation as Nick believes he would have to give up the children to keep Bax.
While the family village is emblematic of their support for one another, it is more evident when they agree to help Bax and Nick parent the children.
Merry Farmer is a talented writer. The stories contain genuine angst, not manufactured. Love is experienced, grows, and is celebrated. Family is central to the large Hawthorne clan, and happiness abounds when Nick acts on his desires and appreciation for Bax, who is fully committed to caring for the children.
This is a great series and a fantastic reading experience.
The "Art of Love" series is based on a rather unusual family that has an estate dedicated to art, where the family and their significant others live. Each entry is named after the art form or circumstance involved.
Bax Hawthorne is the exception; he is not involved in art but is an accountant. His twin is a decorator, described as a 'hot mess,' who finds love in the arms of a RAF member that provides stability and understanding to Blaine Hawthorne.
That same caring nature is rooted in Bax Hawthorne, who falls for the husband of his deceased sister, who is now caring for their two children, one of whom was just one month old when she died in a car accident. Bax is drawn to the big, shy, and silent type that is Nick Turner. He's an artist in metal and seems at home in the blacksmith's shop on the grounds, where he teaches metalwork.
This story explores the romance that grows between Nick and Bax. Although Bax is not comfortable with children, his intense love for Nick blooms and grows over time, leading him to commit to standing beside him in caring for his two young children. Nick's mother disapproves of this same-sex relationship and the pagan religion practiced there. She wants to take the children and raise them herself, rejecting the romance and criticizing her son for being with a man like Bax and for being around the Hawthorne family. This angers Nick, and he seeks to distance his mother from the children. There's a major confrontation as Nick believes he would have to give up the children to keep Bax.
While the family village is emblematic of their support for one another, it is more evident when they agree to help Bax and Nick parent the children.
Merry Farmer is a talented writer. The stories contain genuine angst, not manufactured. Love is experienced, grows, and is celebrated. Family is central to the large Hawthorne clan, and happiness abounds when Nick acts on his desires and appreciation for Bax, who is fully committed to caring for the children.
This is a great series and a fantastic reading experience.
January 17, 2025
Nick Turner has always been the big, shy, silent type. He’s always let his metalwork and blacksmithing skills speak for him. But now, as a widower with two small children to raise in the midst of the eccentric Hawthorne family and a sculpture that needs completing to make the deadline for a national competition, he knows he’s in over his head. Baxter Hawthorne is the black sheep of his family. He’s an accountant in a sea of artists. The one thing he never thought he’d be, however, was a father. But when he’s thrown into proximity with Nick and ends up helping to take care of his kids in a pinch, all that might change. Nick could have sworn he was straight, but the closer he gets to Bax, the more he questions that.
The fourth book in the series but previous characters do make appearances as the series is centred around the Hawthorne family. A very well written book with strong characters & a well paced story. I loved Bax who had returned to his family’s home after a break up, he’s not as flamboyant as his twin Blaine but is still definitely a Hawthorne! I adored Nick he’s the large muscled blacksmith who was struggling to juggle all aspects of his life after he lost Raina, he’s a delicious mix of strength, gentleness & innocence. I loved how they immediately connected & how their friendship grew & deepened. I also loved the passion between them & also how they revalued their lives especially when outside influences tried to derail them. Jordan & Macy were also delightful & I loved how they totally accepted Bax. This series goes from strength to strength & I look forward to the next book, which there was a teaser for
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The fourth book in the series but previous characters do make appearances as the series is centred around the Hawthorne family. A very well written book with strong characters & a well paced story. I loved Bax who had returned to his family’s home after a break up, he’s not as flamboyant as his twin Blaine but is still definitely a Hawthorne! I adored Nick he’s the large muscled blacksmith who was struggling to juggle all aspects of his life after he lost Raina, he’s a delicious mix of strength, gentleness & innocence. I loved how they immediately connected & how their friendship grew & deepened. I also loved the passion between them & also how they revalued their lives especially when outside influences tried to derail them. Jordan & Macy were also delightful & I loved how they totally accepted Bax. This series goes from strength to strength & I look forward to the next book, which there was a teaser for
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
January 20, 2025
This new installment of the Art of Love series (#4) involves Nick Turner, a character we’ve seen in previous books. Nick was married to Raina Hawthorne, with whom he had two children, before Raina was tragically killed in a car accident. Since her death, Nick has stayed at Hawthorne Hall, continuing to teach classes in forging (blacksmithing), and devoting the rest of his life to raising his two toddlers.
When Bax Hawthorne moves into the apartment across the hall from Nick after a bad breakup, there’s an instant attraction, though Bax initially can’t see himself involved with anyone with children. Besides, Nick has never been involved with anyone other than his deceased wife. Gradually, they begin spending time with each other, and become involved.
Complicating matters is Nick’s never seeming to have time to do anything other than work and care for his children – no time for his art, and no time for romance. Further, Nick’s mother is bound and determined to extract Nick from the Hawthorne influence, and get him remarried to a “suitable” woman who will care for the children. When Nick and Bax get involved, Nick’s mother pressures him to give her the children to raise, free of (a) gay influence and (b) Bax’s pagan faith.
This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions, joy at the growing romance, impatience with the Hawthornes who don’t seem to understand how stretched thin Nick is, and anger at Nick’s mother and her rigid ideas. There’s a great scene where Nick accidentally comes out to his mother. Nick’s mother goes ballistic. I’ve enjoyed all the books in this series, and look forward to more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Bax Hawthorne moves into the apartment across the hall from Nick after a bad breakup, there’s an instant attraction, though Bax initially can’t see himself involved with anyone with children. Besides, Nick has never been involved with anyone other than his deceased wife. Gradually, they begin spending time with each other, and become involved.
Complicating matters is Nick’s never seeming to have time to do anything other than work and care for his children – no time for his art, and no time for romance. Further, Nick’s mother is bound and determined to extract Nick from the Hawthorne influence, and get him remarried to a “suitable” woman who will care for the children. When Nick and Bax get involved, Nick’s mother pressures him to give her the children to raise, free of (a) gay influence and (b) Bax’s pagan faith.
This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions, joy at the growing romance, impatience with the Hawthornes who don’t seem to understand how stretched thin Nick is, and anger at Nick’s mother and her rigid ideas. There’s a great scene where Nick accidentally comes out to his mother. Nick’s mother goes ballistic. I’ve enjoyed all the books in this series, and look forward to more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 18, 2025
4.5 stars
Bax and Nick are at different points in their lives. Bax is free spirited, single, looking to start a new business, and all about his personal wants and needs. Nick is quite shy, a widower who is busy raising two young children, teaching classes, and working on a huge project to honor his late wife.
Things are slow to start between them, but that just gave them more time to get to know on another and become really good friends before it became clear they were really good together in other ways as well. As there is a clear divide in where they each feel they are in life, and where they thought that life was going, they each end up spending a tremendous amount of time worrying over if they can actually make a relationship work between them, and if they can give the other man what he needs. There is a lot of back and forth over this inner turmoil before everything comes to a head and they each realize they and the man they love is worth the time to work things out. It is beautiful as the author wrote it so it was so clear that they belonged together, but I would have liked a little more of their story to take place after things were settled between them.
I loved the inclusion of Paganism, such an old religion that is still practiced today to varying degrees. The epilogue left me very curious about what will happen next, and I'm looking forward to the next book.
Overall, I found this book very enjoyable and I would recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bax and Nick are at different points in their lives. Bax is free spirited, single, looking to start a new business, and all about his personal wants and needs. Nick is quite shy, a widower who is busy raising two young children, teaching classes, and working on a huge project to honor his late wife.
Things are slow to start between them, but that just gave them more time to get to know on another and become really good friends before it became clear they were really good together in other ways as well. As there is a clear divide in where they each feel they are in life, and where they thought that life was going, they each end up spending a tremendous amount of time worrying over if they can actually make a relationship work between them, and if they can give the other man what he needs. There is a lot of back and forth over this inner turmoil before everything comes to a head and they each realize they and the man they love is worth the time to work things out. It is beautiful as the author wrote it so it was so clear that they belonged together, but I would have liked a little more of their story to take place after things were settled between them.
I loved the inclusion of Paganism, such an old religion that is still practiced today to varying degrees. The epilogue left me very curious about what will happen next, and I'm looking forward to the next book.
Overall, I found this book very enjoyable and I would recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2025
Luckily for us Merry Farmer has made the Hawthorne family a nice BIG family so we get lots of stories from this series. Lol. As far as I’m concerned the more there are the merrier I am!
Ms Farmer does meticulous research for her books, but I don’t think she took up metal work the way she took up pottery. She still gives us a great idea of how a metal worker does things. This is part of what makes her books so interesting for me because she has this great ability to know what parts of her research to put in the books and even more importantly what of the copious interesting tidbits that she found to leave out.
We get a double Hawthorne book with this one as we have black sheep Bax and widower Nick who has been essentially adopted by the family. We have heard about Bax in previous books and I was excited for his story because I always like a bad boy tale. The “does he like me” back and forth between these two guys is a hoot to read and I smiled so much during this book. I particularly liked the way she wrote about Nick questioning his sexuality and in how the slow pace of the relationship really worked for this aspect of the story. I often get frustrated when a writer has their couple take ages to figure out a relationship because too often authors have only a few things that keep the couple from getting together.
Ms Farmer puts in so much effort to making things seem real that I was just able to enjoy being along for the ride. And what a great ride it is.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ms Farmer does meticulous research for her books, but I don’t think she took up metal work the way she took up pottery. She still gives us a great idea of how a metal worker does things. This is part of what makes her books so interesting for me because she has this great ability to know what parts of her research to put in the books and even more importantly what of the copious interesting tidbits that she found to leave out.
We get a double Hawthorne book with this one as we have black sheep Bax and widower Nick who has been essentially adopted by the family. We have heard about Bax in previous books and I was excited for his story because I always like a bad boy tale. The “does he like me” back and forth between these two guys is a hoot to read and I smiled so much during this book. I particularly liked the way she wrote about Nick questioning his sexuality and in how the slow pace of the relationship really worked for this aspect of the story. I often get frustrated when a writer has their couple take ages to figure out a relationship because too often authors have only a few things that keep the couple from getting together.
Ms Farmer puts in so much effort to making things seem real that I was just able to enjoy being along for the ride. And what a great ride it is.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2025
Nick and Baxter’s Story . . .
Nick Turner and his wife Raina Hawthorne had two children, Macy and Jordan, before Raina dies in a car crash, leaving Nick to raise the children himself while continuing his teaching blacksmithing skills. He lives at Hawthorne Hall with his children, comfortable among Raina’s artistic family. After a bad breakup with coven-leader Damien, Baxter Hawthorne, an accountant among the family of artists, returns to Hawthorne House and ends up in a flat on the first floor across the hall from Nick’s. He watched as a toddler around 3 years old came racing out the door with Nick chasing after him. Baxter was surprised to notice his reaction to Nick. Baxter definitely had no interest in children and knew nothing at all about them, but he saw the toddler heading to the stairs and went after him so he wouldn’t get hurt. Catching him just in time, he acted playful toward Jordan when he caught him so he didn’t scare the child. Standing this close to Nick who had caught up, Baxter continued to be drawn to his strength and scent. But there is also the fact that Nick is straight, having been married to Baxter’s cousin Raina before her death and not dating anyone since. Still, the two living so close become reacquainted, comfortable with each other, and something new may just be possible. In the meantime, Nick’s mother intervenes when she decides to find him a woman to marry and raise his children. When she realizes he and Baxter are starting a relationship, will she try to take the children away from him?
Nick Turner and his wife Raina Hawthorne had two children, Macy and Jordan, before Raina dies in a car crash, leaving Nick to raise the children himself while continuing his teaching blacksmithing skills. He lives at Hawthorne Hall with his children, comfortable among Raina’s artistic family. After a bad breakup with coven-leader Damien, Baxter Hawthorne, an accountant among the family of artists, returns to Hawthorne House and ends up in a flat on the first floor across the hall from Nick’s. He watched as a toddler around 3 years old came racing out the door with Nick chasing after him. Baxter was surprised to notice his reaction to Nick. Baxter definitely had no interest in children and knew nothing at all about them, but he saw the toddler heading to the stairs and went after him so he wouldn’t get hurt. Catching him just in time, he acted playful toward Jordan when he caught him so he didn’t scare the child. Standing this close to Nick who had caught up, Baxter continued to be drawn to his strength and scent. But there is also the fact that Nick is straight, having been married to Baxter’s cousin Raina before her death and not dating anyone since. Still, the two living so close become reacquainted, comfortable with each other, and something new may just be possible. In the meantime, Nick’s mother intervenes when she decides to find him a woman to marry and raise his children. When she realizes he and Baxter are starting a relationship, will she try to take the children away from him?
January 20, 2025
Accountant Bax is the out one in his unapologetically bohemian and queer family. While he's got a straight laced job, he's in no way a straight laced guy. He's a practicing pagan living in a world of adults and adult pursuit. He has no want to settle down and have to share a lover with anything else. Bax comes home to Hawthorne House to regroup after leaving his partner and coven, and that's where he gets reacquainted with his cousin's widower, blacksmith Nick. Nick is trying to hold his life together by a thread. He's juggling trying to be the best single dad he can be while teaching classes, working on his art, and trying to keep his mother at bay. She is begging for him to give him the kids to raise away from the liberal influences of his in-laws. It's never explicitly said in the book how he identifies, but Nick has never had many sexual attractions before his wife and now Bax. And he doesn't have much experience in relationships which makes him a bit insecure. There is no doubt that they have a strong connection and attraction, but they wonder if that's enough to make it work. I loved how their different personalities came together and how sweet they are to one another. There is also no lack of spice in the book. I like the group of characters in this series, it's fun to see them across the stories. Would recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2025
I’ve been looking forward to this story since book 1 of the series, and although it’s got a happy ending, it took awhile to get there. The Baxter and Nick had a lot of issues to work on which I felt seen more than ever due to them navigating a relationship with two small children.
I thought Baxter was going to be more strict and perhaps it was gonna be a more opposites attract, like free-loving Nick and the uptight Baxter, but Baxter turns out to be a something of a black sheep only in terms of his profession, otherwise he’s just as free-loving as the rest of the Hawthornes, and their tropes was not really opposite attract, but more like people obstacles as well as internal issues like that Nick has kids, which really isn’t an issue, but it’s something new for Baxter and he’s not sure how he feels about it.
The introduction of paganism in the book is interesting. That’s one of those things that I like about reading is that I can learn new things about different subjects in a non-judgmental way. I like that Baxter was into that religion, it paints the religion in a different light.
I enjoyed this story as I saw many truths in how Baxter felt at times when he was put second after Nick’s kids. Baxter had some growing up to do and I enjoyed his journey to maturity. I also loved how the family got together to show Baxter and Nick what a family/coven could look like.
This is a nice addition to the series, but honestly I really enjoyed the first one the best.
I thought Baxter was going to be more strict and perhaps it was gonna be a more opposites attract, like free-loving Nick and the uptight Baxter, but Baxter turns out to be a something of a black sheep only in terms of his profession, otherwise he’s just as free-loving as the rest of the Hawthornes, and their tropes was not really opposite attract, but more like people obstacles as well as internal issues like that Nick has kids, which really isn’t an issue, but it’s something new for Baxter and he’s not sure how he feels about it.
The introduction of paganism in the book is interesting. That’s one of those things that I like about reading is that I can learn new things about different subjects in a non-judgmental way. I like that Baxter was into that religion, it paints the religion in a different light.
I enjoyed this story as I saw many truths in how Baxter felt at times when he was put second after Nick’s kids. Baxter had some growing up to do and I enjoyed his journey to maturity. I also loved how the family got together to show Baxter and Nick what a family/coven could look like.
This is a nice addition to the series, but honestly I really enjoyed the first one the best.
February 3, 2025
4.5 stars averaged out then rounded up!
Ever since reading Painted, when we got the first inkling of Nick and Bax together, I’ve been picturing the possibilities in my mind and I could. Not. Wait until it was released!!
There were some differences however, between my imaginings and the reality of Forged. The main thing being the repeated mentions of paganism, covens, witches and witchcraft. Neither of those are things I have any interest in reading about but, I DID love the relationship that slowly developed between these two guys. I’d be out and out LYING if I pretended I didn’t enjoy the book because of the above mentioned subjects or that I regretted reading it but, honestly, I just skimmed right over those and went about my business. Personally, I didn’t feel like I missed a thing but, that could be just because I have a really vivid imagination and mentally changed it to more closely align with my beliefs…not sure, but I DO know that I absolutely LOVED the book!!
Paganism, witches and witchcraft maybe not your thing either? Don’t worry, skim over it and I’m fairly certain it won’t impact your enjoyment at all. Give it a try anyway, you just may find yourself falling in love with these two adorable guys like I did!! 4 stars as is with the paganistic elements, 5 with skimming over them so 4.5 stars overall (then of course it had to be rounded up so… 😄)
I received a copy of this book for free for an honest review.
Ever since reading Painted, when we got the first inkling of Nick and Bax together, I’ve been picturing the possibilities in my mind and I could. Not. Wait until it was released!!
There were some differences however, between my imaginings and the reality of Forged. The main thing being the repeated mentions of paganism, covens, witches and witchcraft. Neither of those are things I have any interest in reading about but, I DID love the relationship that slowly developed between these two guys. I’d be out and out LYING if I pretended I didn’t enjoy the book because of the above mentioned subjects or that I regretted reading it but, honestly, I just skimmed right over those and went about my business. Personally, I didn’t feel like I missed a thing but, that could be just because I have a really vivid imagination and mentally changed it to more closely align with my beliefs…not sure, but I DO know that I absolutely LOVED the book!!
Paganism, witches and witchcraft maybe not your thing either? Don’t worry, skim over it and I’m fairly certain it won’t impact your enjoyment at all. Give it a try anyway, you just may find yourself falling in love with these two adorable guys like I did!! 4 stars as is with the paganistic elements, 5 with skimming over them so 4.5 stars overall (then of course it had to be rounded up so… 😄)
I received a copy of this book for free for an honest review.
January 23, 2025
This is a bi-awakening story between Nick, Raine's widower, and Bax, a Hawthorne cousin.
I found it a bit difficult to really get into the story. Nick is overworked, still grieving from Raine's death and battling childcare, his overbearing mum, his teaching and his own art.
Meeting Bax (at the end of Decorated) throws another problem into the mix: sudden atrraction to a man.
Nick wasn't an easy character to like, I found his problems so overwhelming, there wasn't easy to find a connection. it took quite a dig through the various layers to come to the person beneath all the problems weighting him down.
Bax was slightly different, very open, his Pagan believes really brought an interesting twist to the story. Saying that, his jumping from trying his hardest with Nick and the two toddlers and backing out again because he felt overwelmed was sometimes a bit hard to follow.
These two could have sorted the back and forth a lot faster if they actually used their free time to talk and not heat up the sheets.
What made me starting to love the book was the last third, Bax realising what he actually wants, that he doesn't need to re-create what he had but be open to something new.
As ususal the Hawthorne clan caused mayhem, brought plenty of humor and funny situations. The little glimps in what will come next is also good.
I found it a bit difficult to really get into the story. Nick is overworked, still grieving from Raine's death and battling childcare, his overbearing mum, his teaching and his own art.
Meeting Bax (at the end of Decorated) throws another problem into the mix: sudden atrraction to a man.
Nick wasn't an easy character to like, I found his problems so overwhelming, there wasn't easy to find a connection. it took quite a dig through the various layers to come to the person beneath all the problems weighting him down.
Bax was slightly different, very open, his Pagan believes really brought an interesting twist to the story. Saying that, his jumping from trying his hardest with Nick and the two toddlers and backing out again because he felt overwelmed was sometimes a bit hard to follow.
These two could have sorted the back and forth a lot faster if they actually used their free time to talk and not heat up the sheets.
What made me starting to love the book was the last third, Bax realising what he actually wants, that he doesn't need to re-create what he had but be open to something new.
As ususal the Hawthorne clan caused mayhem, brought plenty of humor and funny situations. The little glimps in what will come next is also good.
February 2, 2025
This is book 4 in The Art of Love series. While it is a standalone read, I think you best read the series in order. Otherwise you will be overwhelmed with all the secondary characters. This is the story of Nick Turner and Bax Hawthorne. Nick was introduced in earlier books. He was married to Raina Hawthorne, with whom he had two children, before she died in a car accident. Now a widower, he lives for his art and his children. He teaches metal work and blacksmithing. He is working hard to complete a large metalwork piece for a national competition. Bax is the black sheep of his family. Not artistically creative, he is an accountant. He has also moved back home due to a breakup. Bax ends up living in the apartment across from Nick. An instant friendship grows between Bax and Nick. While Bax is feeling sparks, Nick is confused. He is straight, or so he thinks. Then the addition of his two children add to the confusion and stress. Add in his overbearing mother, and it is an explosive mix. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2025
Still, a few family surprises! Nick, is a widower who is a blacksmith specializing in metalworks. He lives among his in-laws, the Hawthorne's teachign blacksmith classes. He is about his work and his kids and keeps to himself. He's under a deadline to complete a sculpture for a competition and realizes he's over his head. Bax, a career outsider, is an accountant not an artist. He, still shares the effusive personality of the family artists, but he's a bit of a loner. He returns to the fold after a breakup and leaving his former life. He ends up helping Nick while he's working and realizes he enjoys the children. As Nick and Bax get closer, they step onto a path of enlightnment. Good book about discovering one's true self while taking the last step to adulting. A little miscommunication with his Mom and a few necessary decisions. Nick's Mom, has her own ideas about how Nick needs to live his life. The author is doing an amazing job with the world building of this family. They are amazing. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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January 26, 2025It's bittersweet to get Nick's story, especially since when we first met him, he was madly in love with his wife, who was tragically killed in an auto accident (recounted in a previous book in the series), but it does give us a chance to watch him explore his bisexual awakening and find a second chance with another Hawthorne... I loved watching this single dad find new contentment, and also watch as Bax learns to interact with the kids. As always, there's a bit of a villain in the story - Nick's mother... who wants things her way...
This was a lovely story that takes two men from acquaintances to lovers and gives us a delicious chance to watch it happen. I also love the Hawthorne family and Brotherhood cameos that pop up!
This book, while it could be read standalone, is best read in order so you have Nick's backstory and understand who all the side characters are.
This was a lovely story that takes two men from acquaintances to lovers and gives us a delicious chance to watch it happen. I also love the Hawthorne family and Brotherhood cameos that pop up!
This book, while it could be read standalone, is best read in order so you have Nick's backstory and understand who all the side characters are.
February 18, 2025
'The way Nick gazed at him, like he was searching for the answer to an important question, filled Bax with the need to give Nick everything he could and more.'
'A real partnership was about facing the world together.'
I really enjoyed this book. It was such a sweet romance. I loved both Nick and Baxter. They were really cute together, and I liked that when Nick was unsure or overwhelmed, Bax was there to support, reassure, and help him. I liked the bi-awakening aspect as with one kiss, Nick realized he wasn't as straight as he assumed. He has a lot on his plate trying to juggle his art and his toddlers, set boundaries with his mother, and his blossoming relationship with Bax. At times it was a hard road and both men had to battle their insecurities. But it was a journey well rewarded. I liked all the supporting characters- minus Nick's mom obviously.
4 stars.
'A real partnership was about facing the world together.'
I really enjoyed this book. It was such a sweet romance. I loved both Nick and Baxter. They were really cute together, and I liked that when Nick was unsure or overwhelmed, Bax was there to support, reassure, and help him. I liked the bi-awakening aspect as with one kiss, Nick realized he wasn't as straight as he assumed. He has a lot on his plate trying to juggle his art and his toddlers, set boundaries with his mother, and his blossoming relationship with Bax. At times it was a hard road and both men had to battle their insecurities. But it was a journey well rewarded. I liked all the supporting characters- minus Nick's mom obviously.
4 stars.
January 31, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, although sometimes it’s not in everybody’s taste, but I enjoyed it. This story is about Nick Turner and his struggles with dealing with the loss of his wife and bringing up his two children on his own, but he is able to fall back on the Hawthorn family who are also mourning the loss of their daughter and sister. He also has to fight the feelings for his brother-in-law Bax Hawthorne, that he was straight, but now he is doubting his sexuality and his mother is also wanting more grandchildren, so she is pushing for him to find some nice girl to settle down with. This is the fourth book in the series, and it is just as entertaining as the rest of them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this story, good and entertaining.
I loved both main characters, Nick is a big teddy bear and Bax, is really sweet as well. I really appreciated how the difficulties of a new couple when on has two young kids, were shown, and how the author dealt with the situation of the person in the couple without kids who struggles and have to learn to accept to not be the number one priority. I also liked all the information and details about paganism.
It's slow burn, and the first half is a bit slow, and I had a bit of difficulties to really get into the story but then I read the second half in one sitting without being able to put it down.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
I loved both main characters, Nick is a big teddy bear and Bax, is really sweet as well. I really appreciated how the difficulties of a new couple when on has two young kids, were shown, and how the author dealt with the situation of the person in the couple without kids who struggles and have to learn to accept to not be the number one priority. I also liked all the information and details about paganism.
It's slow burn, and the first half is a bit slow, and I had a bit of difficulties to really get into the story but then I read the second half in one sitting without being able to put it down.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
February 18, 2025
Forged by Merry Farmer is everything I love in a romance—sweet, steamy, and deeply emotional. Nick, the quiet blacksmith and single father, is easy to love, and Bax, the accountant who doesn’t quite fit into his artistic family, is the perfect contrast. Their slow-burn attraction, full of bi-awakening tension, is handled beautifully.
The Hawthorne family’s meddling adds warmth and humor, and Nick’s journey of self-discovery feels so genuine. Plus, the way Bax steps in with Nick’s kids? Swoon. This book has all the soft, found-family goodness I crave.
A fantastic addition to The Art of Love series—low angst, high heat, and full of heart!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Hawthorne family’s meddling adds warmth and humor, and Nick’s journey of self-discovery feels so genuine. Plus, the way Bax steps in with Nick’s kids? Swoon. This book has all the soft, found-family goodness I crave.
A fantastic addition to The Art of Love series—low angst, high heat, and full of heart!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2025
Bax and Nick are in really different places in their lives at the start of the story, especially with Nick being the too busy single father of two toddlers. I appreciated Bax's struggle to reconcile his previous life with more freedom and less responsibilities, particularly how he came to terms that he needed to change more of his priorities than he had been prepared for. The situation with Nick's mother was clearly not solved by the end, I hope that it will be addressed in the next book, although that will focus on a new couple. The Hawthorne family is brilliant, and I loved what they did at the end.
February 4, 2025
His heart died with his wife
Something died in Nick when his wife was killed in a car crash. He takes care of his two children, but he does really live. Enter Bax, a cousin, the only member of the tribe who is not an artist. The attraction is there on both sides, although it is a total surprise for Nick, who certainly did not expect to be attracted to a man, although … when he was at school … And then, to complicate things, Nick’s mother wants to remove his kids from an environment that she considers toxic. But does Nick really have to choose between his kids and Bax?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Something died in Nick when his wife was killed in a car crash. He takes care of his two children, but he does really live. Enter Bax, a cousin, the only member of the tribe who is not an artist. The attraction is there on both sides, although it is a total surprise for Nick, who certainly did not expect to be attracted to a man, although … when he was at school … And then, to complicate things, Nick’s mother wants to remove his kids from an environment that she considers toxic. But does Nick really have to choose between his kids and Bax?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 17, 2025
A 'Forged' Relationship!⁵
Nick and Bax have an intense relationship. It is one which rocks the boat for Nick who is still coming to grips with the death of his wife and we find him having to bring up his 2 young children which isn't an easy task but it is a loving one.
I loved their instant awareness of each other, their friendship, their passion and the way they sort out who and what they want in life and in love.
It is a beautifully written love story, one which I am delighted to have read an early copy of. My voluntary review is recorded above.
Nick and Bax have an intense relationship. It is one which rocks the boat for Nick who is still coming to grips with the death of his wife and we find him having to bring up his 2 young children which isn't an easy task but it is a loving one.
I loved their instant awareness of each other, their friendship, their passion and the way they sort out who and what they want in life and in love.
It is a beautifully written love story, one which I am delighted to have read an early copy of. My voluntary review is recorded above.
February 2, 2025
I am addicted to Merry's writing style. Every book in this series is a hit for me. Forged is about a bi awakening and a second chance at love. I loved Nick and Bax so, so much!! Especially Nick deserved to be happy after losing Raina. I really disliked Nick’s mom though.
There’s one event in this book that had me in tears, but the ending is a happy one.
I’m also looking forward to the next book (Rafe’s story).
“A real partnership was about facing the world together.”.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There’s one event in this book that had me in tears, but the ending is a happy one.
I’m also looking forward to the next book (Rafe’s story).
“A real partnership was about facing the world together.”.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2025
4+
The Hawthorne family crept ibto my heart. I love how they truely let pekple be who they are. Nick and Bax there story has a hea, but nkt before a lot of aoul seraching. Especially Nick with his sleepdeprived brain. I did like that his kids are no perfect angels.
This, I think, is the first book I have read in the series and am looking forward to read them all. Merry had the right flow and style of writing for me. Absolute loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Hawthorne family crept ibto my heart. I love how they truely let pekple be who they are. Nick and Bax there story has a hea, but nkt before a lot of aoul seraching. Especially Nick with his sleepdeprived brain. I did like that his kids are no perfect angels.
This, I think, is the first book I have read in the series and am looking forward to read them all. Merry had the right flow and style of writing for me. Absolute loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2025
good
This was a pretty good book. Nick’s mother was portrayed well and irritated everyone including the reader. Also, I kind of want to know why she’s only pressuring Nick to give her more grandkids instead of focusing on her two other kids; what is her crazy thought process for that? Bax had to grow up and mature and realize compromise was needed. I really liked the scene with Nick’s big gesture and how much Bax discovered he doesn’t want the life he thought he did.
This was a pretty good book. Nick’s mother was portrayed well and irritated everyone including the reader. Also, I kind of want to know why she’s only pressuring Nick to give her more grandkids instead of focusing on her two other kids; what is her crazy thought process for that? Bax had to grow up and mature and realize compromise was needed. I really liked the scene with Nick’s big gesture and how much Bax discovered he doesn’t want the life he thought he did.
January 30, 2025
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Nick and Bax are different but the attraction between them is strong. There is the added elements that Nick is a single parent of two toddlers and that Nick's mother is not making things easy. I'm glad that Nick and Bax finally find a way to make things work and that it includes the kids. I like how the Hawthorne family steps up to help them.
February 2, 2025
Merry Farmer delivers a sizzling blend of romance, resilience, and razor-sharp banter in Forged. With characters that leap off the page and a love story that burns slow but bright, this book proves that sometimes, the best things in life are forged under pressure. The only downside? You'll be left craving more. A must-read for fans of historical romance with a modern edge!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2025
I loved this story.
Nick and Bax were wonderful characters. Nick was a single father who always saw himself as straight. Yet, when he meets Bax, he feels a surprising attraction. Great story as these two learn so much about themselves and each other. Nick's mom was an interesting antagonist of sorts...
Great, heartfelt read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nick and Bax were wonderful characters. Nick was a single father who always saw himself as straight. Yet, when he meets Bax, he feels a surprising attraction. Great story as these two learn so much about themselves and each other. Nick's mom was an interesting antagonist of sorts...
Great, heartfelt read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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