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Bears of Firefly Valley #2
More Reason to Stay
Handymen in flannel, Hollywood stars, steamy romps, found family, and a town that will go to extremes for its residents.
Firefly wasn’t a vacation. It was an escape.
Nobody warned me about the bed and breakfast owners with opinions, the grocery store lady with questions, or the strip teases for charity. In Hollywood, nobody cares who you are. In Firefly Valley, nobody cares who you were.
Then there’s the rugged flannel wearing handyman with absolutely zero interest in my IMDb page.
Bobby protects my ego from the media by pretending to be my boyfriend. He’s the calm in a storm, and I’m not hating our fake relationship, which is the most unsettling thing that’s ever happened. And I’ve survived three tabloid scandals.
The role of a lifetime is still on the table. Bobby’s still in Firefly. And for the first time, I want to ignore opportunity and follow my heart.
More Reason to Stay is a M/M, snarky romance with an HEA and no cliffhangers. Be warned, there will be bears with bellies, steamy romps, Hollywood scandals, handymen, flannel, found family, and a town that will go to extremes for its residents.
The Bears of Firefly Valley Series
One Reason to StayMore Reason to StayEvery Reason to StayOne Chance to StayMore Chances to Stay
Firefly wasn’t a vacation. It was an escape.
Nobody warned me about the bed and breakfast owners with opinions, the grocery store lady with questions, or the strip teases for charity. In Hollywood, nobody cares who you are. In Firefly Valley, nobody cares who you were.
Then there’s the rugged flannel wearing handyman with absolutely zero interest in my IMDb page.
Bobby protects my ego from the media by pretending to be my boyfriend. He’s the calm in a storm, and I’m not hating our fake relationship, which is the most unsettling thing that’s ever happened. And I’ve survived three tabloid scandals.
The role of a lifetime is still on the table. Bobby’s still in Firefly. And for the first time, I want to ignore opportunity and follow my heart.
More Reason to Stay is a M/M, snarky romance with an HEA and no cliffhangers. Be warned, there will be bears with bellies, steamy romps, Hollywood scandals, handymen, flannel, found family, and a town that will go to extremes for its residents.
The Bears of Firefly Valley Series
One Reason to StayMore Reason to StayEvery Reason to StayOne Chance to StayMore Chances to Stay
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 11, 2025
About the author
Ryder O'Malley
27 books111 followers
Ryder O'Malley Website
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Ryder's Patreon
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Series Reading Order
Ryder acts as if he doesn’t watch sappy movies. He won’t admit to daydreaming about ex-boyfriends and asking “What if…” He’s a closet romantic who gets anxious about first dates. While he calls himself a romance writer, he likes to think of it as fanfic about his life. Someday… it’ll become a reality. Until then, he’ll invent dreamy men that make him tear up at their insistence that love always wins.
Ryder acts as if he doesn’t watch sappy movies. He won’t admit to daydreaming about ex-boyfriends and asking “What if…” He’s a closet romantic who gets anxious about first dates. While he calls himself a romance writer, he likes to think of it as fanfic about his life. Someday… it’ll become a reality. Until then, he’ll invent dreamy men that make him tear up at their insistence that love always wins.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
February 21, 2025
ARC review
This was cute and warm, I loved it.
Chris needed a break and Firefly gave him just that. Gave him family, friends and love, things he didn't even notice he was missing.
Bobby was a giant teddy bear and I loved it. He loved Chris quietly and wholly.
This was cute and warm, I loved it.
Chris needed a break and Firefly gave him just that. Gave him family, friends and love, things he didn't even notice he was missing.
Bobby was a giant teddy bear and I loved it. He loved Chris quietly and wholly.
Did Not Finish
July 29, 2026Sad to see another AI turning to AI - The audiobooks for these are on audible with Virtual Voice
Author is also using Amazon's AI Translation service.
Author is also using Amazon's AI Translation service.
February 21, 2025
Thank you Ryder for writing this! This is probably the best book I've read so far this year and will definitely be on my top five list. I've never smiled so much while reading a book. I had originally got this as an ARC, but I ended up buying it.
We are introduced to superhero movie actor Christopher Wilde. He had made an indy file to try and break out of the stereotype so many actors like him found themselves in. The movie flopped. He runs off to the wilds of Maine, no pun intended, to lick his wounds and escape the tabloids. He ends up in Firefly, Maine, where he had attended a comic con before and stayed close to the two gay men who had put the convention on.
He rents what he think is an AirBnB for himself, but discovers he just rented a suite in a elderly couple's house. He's not thrilled to be sharing a house with others when he's trying to escape people. He soon finds out that it's not all bad.
He is stepping out of the shower into his room where he meets Bobby Wright, the town handyman. The woman who owns the AirBnB had hired him to do some work and he didn't realize that Chris would be there. Chris is surprised to see this gorgeous bear of a man in his bedroom and accidentally drops his towel. Oops. Leads to spicy times until their interrupted by the owners coming home.
I guess this qualifies for a meet-cute. Not one of my favorite tropes, but it works so well here. Everything works so well in this book. We get a happily ever after ending so read the book to find out how they get there. It's well worth it. It's an easy read. No real angst.
The best thing about the book is how Ryder really brings the town and all of its residents to life. He makes them an important part of the story. They all help Chris fall in love with Firefly, and also fall in love with Bobby. It's not an overly saccharine sweet book. It's a really great love story with wonderful characters and a interesting plot. Read it-you'll thank me.
We are introduced to superhero movie actor Christopher Wilde. He had made an indy file to try and break out of the stereotype so many actors like him found themselves in. The movie flopped. He runs off to the wilds of Maine, no pun intended, to lick his wounds and escape the tabloids. He ends up in Firefly, Maine, where he had attended a comic con before and stayed close to the two gay men who had put the convention on.
He rents what he think is an AirBnB for himself, but discovers he just rented a suite in a elderly couple's house. He's not thrilled to be sharing a house with others when he's trying to escape people. He soon finds out that it's not all bad.
He is stepping out of the shower into his room where he meets Bobby Wright, the town handyman. The woman who owns the AirBnB had hired him to do some work and he didn't realize that Chris would be there. Chris is surprised to see this gorgeous bear of a man in his bedroom and accidentally drops his towel. Oops. Leads to spicy times until their interrupted by the owners coming home.
I guess this qualifies for a meet-cute. Not one of my favorite tropes, but it works so well here. Everything works so well in this book. We get a happily ever after ending so read the book to find out how they get there. It's well worth it. It's an easy read. No real angst.
The best thing about the book is how Ryder really brings the town and all of its residents to life. He makes them an important part of the story. They all help Chris fall in love with Firefly, and also fall in love with Bobby. It's not an overly saccharine sweet book. It's a really great love story with wonderful characters and a interesting plot. Read it-you'll thank me.
February 7, 2026
Very cute. Same sort of set up as the first book, but still interesting and doesn’t feel like a repeat.
Bobby and Chris are lush together. The fake boyfriends bit didn’t really feel fake at all, and from the start, they were just perfect together.
There is very little angst in these books; nothing very dramatic or too emotional. They’re warm and cosy reads.
Bobby and Chris are lush together. The fake boyfriends bit didn’t really feel fake at all, and from the start, they were just perfect together.
There is very little angst in these books; nothing very dramatic or too emotional. They’re warm and cosy reads.
February 20, 2025
More Reasons to Stay by Ryder O'Malley is the perfect feel-good, small-town romance that leaves you smiling long after you finish the last page. As the second book in the Bears of Firefly Valley series, it beautifully expands the cosy, welcoming world of Firefly—a town so charming it gives Stars Hollow vibes, complete with its quirky, nosy (but well-meaning) residents who thrive on gossip but have hearts of pure gold. Once Firefly claims you as one of its own, there’s no going back—you’re family for life.
This story follows Chris, a big-name actor stuck in a career and life slump, who heads to Firefly Valley for a much-needed escape. What starts as a simple mini-vacation turns into something far deeper when he meets Bobby, the town’s dependable and kind-hearted handyman. Their connection is instant, and their journey from strangers to something so much more is heartwarming and sweet. The fake dating trope is executed perfectly here—light, playful, and filled with moments that’ll make you grin.
One of the standout features of this book is its low-angst approach. Chris and Bobby’s relationship flows naturally without unnecessary drama or a dreaded third-act breakup. Instead, you get a fluffy, slow-burn romance that’s heavy on charm and sprinkled with just the right amount of steam. And while it’s a single POV, it never feels one-sided; you get a clear sense of both characters’ emotions and growth.
At its core, More Reasons to Stay is about found family, embracing change, and realising that sometimes, home isn’t a place—it’s a person (or in this case, a town and its people). Firefly itself is practically a character in the book, with its welcoming community, local quirks, and endless heart.
If you love small-town romances filled with warmth, fake dating, steamy moments, and lovable characters, this one’s for you. It’s easy to read, hard to put down, and leaves you feeling all kinds of cozy. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for more from Firefly Valley. Highly recommend!
This story follows Chris, a big-name actor stuck in a career and life slump, who heads to Firefly Valley for a much-needed escape. What starts as a simple mini-vacation turns into something far deeper when he meets Bobby, the town’s dependable and kind-hearted handyman. Their connection is instant, and their journey from strangers to something so much more is heartwarming and sweet. The fake dating trope is executed perfectly here—light, playful, and filled with moments that’ll make you grin.
One of the standout features of this book is its low-angst approach. Chris and Bobby’s relationship flows naturally without unnecessary drama or a dreaded third-act breakup. Instead, you get a fluffy, slow-burn romance that’s heavy on charm and sprinkled with just the right amount of steam. And while it’s a single POV, it never feels one-sided; you get a clear sense of both characters’ emotions and growth.
At its core, More Reasons to Stay is about found family, embracing change, and realising that sometimes, home isn’t a place—it’s a person (or in this case, a town and its people). Firefly itself is practically a character in the book, with its welcoming community, local quirks, and endless heart.
If you love small-town romances filled with warmth, fake dating, steamy moments, and lovable characters, this one’s for you. It’s easy to read, hard to put down, and leaves you feeling all kinds of cozy. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for more from Firefly Valley. Highly recommend!
April 8, 2025
Chris et Bobby avec un Culomètre à 🍑
Dans ce tome, on retrouve Chris, l'acteur mondialement connu qui revient à Firefly Valley pour faire une pause après l'échec relatif de son dernier film. Il va être sauvé par Chris, qui va se faire passer pour son petit ami, mais tout va un peu partir en live, puisque, petite ville oblige, tout va se savoir très vite !
Je ne sais pas pourquoi, mais j'ai réellement un problème avec la plume... Pas qu'elle soit désagréable, mais je n'arrive pas à la lire de manière fluide, ce qui fait que j'ai du mal à rentrer dans le récit.
Passé ce petit désagrément, voilà une romance douce et mignonne où on passe un bon moment. J'aime le fait que les protagonistes soient des "bears" et que les physiques ne soient pas des clichés de la romance, ça donne un côté frais très appréciable !
Concernant la romance, elle est vraiment douce, les deux protagonistes matchent bien, tout se passe de manière fluide et on les voit juste apprendre à se connaitre pour finir par tomber amoureux. Bobby est décrit comme un homme fiable et donc, toutes ses actions en découle, ce qui rend facilement le fait, pour Chris, de tomber amoureux de lui. Et, comme pour toutes les relations dans les petites villes avec un des protas qui vient de la ville, il va devoir choisir entre rester et partir !
Bref, encore un deuxième tome dans le prolongement du premier pour faire le plein de romance douce et saine !
Dans ce tome, on retrouve Chris, l'acteur mondialement connu qui revient à Firefly Valley pour faire une pause après l'échec relatif de son dernier film. Il va être sauvé par Chris, qui va se faire passer pour son petit ami, mais tout va un peu partir en live, puisque, petite ville oblige, tout va se savoir très vite !
Je ne sais pas pourquoi, mais j'ai réellement un problème avec la plume... Pas qu'elle soit désagréable, mais je n'arrive pas à la lire de manière fluide, ce qui fait que j'ai du mal à rentrer dans le récit.
Passé ce petit désagrément, voilà une romance douce et mignonne où on passe un bon moment. J'aime le fait que les protagonistes soient des "bears" et que les physiques ne soient pas des clichés de la romance, ça donne un côté frais très appréciable !
Concernant la romance, elle est vraiment douce, les deux protagonistes matchent bien, tout se passe de manière fluide et on les voit juste apprendre à se connaitre pour finir par tomber amoureux. Bobby est décrit comme un homme fiable et donc, toutes ses actions en découle, ce qui rend facilement le fait, pour Chris, de tomber amoureux de lui. Et, comme pour toutes les relations dans les petites villes avec un des protas qui vient de la ville, il va devoir choisir entre rester et partir !
Bref, encore un deuxième tome dans le prolongement du premier pour faire le plein de romance douce et saine !
February 7, 2025
This book was fantastic. As a huge fan of the first book in the series, I knew I'd love this one, too. But I was somehow not prepared for just how much. The folks of Firefly Valley are the perfect small town I need to keep my heart whole while the world falls apart around me. Kind neighbors who pull together and support each other. It's an ideal that leaves a smile on my face with every page I turn. On top of that, Chris and Bobby were just too freaking cute for words. I love the idea of a down-to-earth movie star falling for a kind-hearted handy man. Seeing familiar faces and getting to know new ones was like coming home again after a long time spent away. Seriously, I adore this book and this series. They're the perfect amount of silly without being ridiculous. I was routinely poked by family members for laughing out loud while reading. I cannot wait for the next book in the series. Hopefully there are many more to come.
February 27, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
This is the second book in the Bears of Firefly Valley series, but it works well as a standalone. Jason and Simon do make a few appearances, as do secondary characters we met in the first book, but there’s more than enough information and the story is individual enough that it could be read without reading One Reason to Stay.
I really enjoyed the MCs here. I loved that these two men communicated well, and there was no “third act breakup” or black moment of miscommunication. They were both open and honest, talked about their thoughts and feelings, and it made for a really lovely romance.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
This is the second book in the Bears of Firefly Valley series, but it works well as a standalone. Jason and Simon do make a few appearances, as do secondary characters we met in the first book, but there’s more than enough information and the story is individual enough that it could be read without reading One Reason to Stay.
I really enjoyed the MCs here. I loved that these two men communicated well, and there was no “third act breakup” or black moment of miscommunication. They were both open and honest, talked about their thoughts and feelings, and it made for a really lovely romance.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
April 11, 2025
When Chris needed to get away from the fame, he remembered the small town Firefly Valley. A place to lick his wounds, but he did not expect to fall in love.
Whilst it started as insta-attraction, to fake dating, you could see how good Chris and Bobby were together and the road to romance was sweet. With the locals being their usual interfering selves there were some laugh out loud moments, especially with some of the kids all I am saying is Tinkerbell. Bobby had a great family well his father was Abraham, so there was never a dull moment, who gave Chris what he never knew he needed and it was good to catch up with Jason and Simon .
This is a series that I love returning to and I cannot wait to see who falls in love with Firefly Valley.
Whilst it started as insta-attraction, to fake dating, you could see how good Chris and Bobby were together and the road to romance was sweet. With the locals being their usual interfering selves there were some laugh out loud moments, especially with some of the kids all I am saying is Tinkerbell. Bobby had a great family well his father was Abraham, so there was never a dull moment, who gave Chris what he never knew he needed and it was good to catch up with Jason and Simon .
This is a series that I love returning to and I cannot wait to see who falls in love with Firefly Valley.
February 20, 2025
I loved everything about this book - the small-town nosiness and charm, the humor, the insta-sizzle of the connection between Chris and Bobby. From the moment Chris arrives in Firefly, it's pretty clear that his hopes of keeping a low profile are a pipe dream. But between the meddling townsfolk and the clearly irresistible handyman, this story is a perfect mix of chaos and romance. Chris and Bobby's chemistry crackles with tension and banter, making each of their interactions a delight to witness. The townspeople are absolutely hilarious with their meddling and gossip, and they truly feel like old friends instead of quirky side characters.
Beyond the laughs and the spice, this book has a beating heart. The emotional depth, the struggle of balancing public scrutiny with personal desires, and the journey toward self-acceptance make it a story worth savoring. There's no cliffhanger, no third act breakup, no heavy angst - just a guaranteed HEA that will leave you grinning as much as the town busybodies.
If you love M/M romance, witty banter, meddling neighbors, and enough heat to keep you warm through autumn, More Reason to Stay is an absolute must-read. Firefly Valley has stolen my heart, and I can't wait for the next book!
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Beyond the laughs and the spice, this book has a beating heart. The emotional depth, the struggle of balancing public scrutiny with personal desires, and the journey toward self-acceptance make it a story worth savoring. There's no cliffhanger, no third act breakup, no heavy angst - just a guaranteed HEA that will leave you grinning as much as the town busybodies.
If you love M/M romance, witty banter, meddling neighbors, and enough heat to keep you warm through autumn, More Reason to Stay is an absolute must-read. Firefly Valley has stolen my heart, and I can't wait for the next book!
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
February 21, 2025
I absolutely loved the first book! When I heard there was going to be more I could not wait for them to come out. Book 2 did not disappoint in the slightest. Both Chris and Bobby are the cutest couple I’ve read about in a while. Once again the town’s people made it even better with their shenanigans. I’m giving 4.5 out of 5 stars. I received the book 2 as an ARC from GRR.
This book follows Chris whom the readers briefly met during the comic con in the first book. After receiving negative publicity from his latest movie, he heads to Firefly for some needed down time. Thinking this is the vacation he needs he does not expect it to turn into a whirlwind romance with Bobby the town’s handyman. What starts off as a causal encounter, quickly develops into something more. Bobby’s family is no help at all. They integrate (drag) Chris into the towns daily life that makes it difficult to escape. Along the way he finds out that there is more to life than the next movie shoot.
Overall, I adore both Chris and Bobby’s story. Their relationship did not seem unrealistic. I really do not life when the romantic partners have unrealistic expectations from one another. This above all else made me want to continue reading the story and wanting from the characters. I cannot wait for the next installment from the author.
This book follows Chris whom the readers briefly met during the comic con in the first book. After receiving negative publicity from his latest movie, he heads to Firefly for some needed down time. Thinking this is the vacation he needs he does not expect it to turn into a whirlwind romance with Bobby the town’s handyman. What starts off as a causal encounter, quickly develops into something more. Bobby’s family is no help at all. They integrate (drag) Chris into the towns daily life that makes it difficult to escape. Along the way he finds out that there is more to life than the next movie shoot.
Overall, I adore both Chris and Bobby’s story. Their relationship did not seem unrealistic. I really do not life when the romantic partners have unrealistic expectations from one another. This above all else made me want to continue reading the story and wanting from the characters. I cannot wait for the next installment from the author.
February 15, 2025
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Such an endearing story. Full of humour and warmth. I chuckled and smiled the whole way through. It is full of the best kind of small-town characters, quirky, nosy, and completely loveable.
It’s written from a single-person point of view, and though I would love to see things from Bobby’s point of view, it was great to really delve deep into Chris’s perspective and understanding. And meeting Bobby and the town from his point of view.
Bobby is the kind of man, you underestimate, but he’s beautiful. He is happy with his ‘simple’ life, but he also has dreams. And a willingness to be in the moment and live for now. It’s a humble bravery that I would fall for.
This story passed in no time, a true pleasure to read. And I suddenly have a fetish for a man in overalls.
Such an endearing story. Full of humour and warmth. I chuckled and smiled the whole way through. It is full of the best kind of small-town characters, quirky, nosy, and completely loveable.
It’s written from a single-person point of view, and though I would love to see things from Bobby’s point of view, it was great to really delve deep into Chris’s perspective and understanding. And meeting Bobby and the town from his point of view.
Bobby is the kind of man, you underestimate, but he’s beautiful. He is happy with his ‘simple’ life, but he also has dreams. And a willingness to be in the moment and live for now. It’s a humble bravery that I would fall for.
This story passed in no time, a true pleasure to read. And I suddenly have a fetish for a man in overalls.
February 18, 2025
Have you ever read something and thought to yourself, God I needed this. That's how I felt reading "More Reason to Stay" by Ryder O'Malley.
In the second novel in O'Malley's "Bears of Firefly Valley" series, we are reintroduced to Chris who we met briefly in the first novel. His return to Firefly is one born from Hollywood stardom's drama and stress. Thankfully a knight in shining flannel, named Bobby, is about to come to the rescue. In this wholesome, well written, erotic, and heartfelt story...don't come looking for conflict or angst or high drama. Come looking for a soft, sexy, and comforting read.
O'Malley writing shines best when he writes about relationships. The people he writes about have heart and I found myself falling in love with each of them. The town of Firefly represents an idealistic HOPE for a better world. A blueprint for how things could be if we allowed ourselves to love more and judge less. "More Reason to Stay" is a cozy, blanket, of a book that acts as something of a balm for a weary heart.
In the second novel in O'Malley's "Bears of Firefly Valley" series, we are reintroduced to Chris who we met briefly in the first novel. His return to Firefly is one born from Hollywood stardom's drama and stress. Thankfully a knight in shining flannel, named Bobby, is about to come to the rescue. In this wholesome, well written, erotic, and heartfelt story...don't come looking for conflict or angst or high drama. Come looking for a soft, sexy, and comforting read.
O'Malley writing shines best when he writes about relationships. The people he writes about have heart and I found myself falling in love with each of them. The town of Firefly represents an idealistic HOPE for a better world. A blueprint for how things could be if we allowed ourselves to love more and judge less. "More Reason to Stay" is a cozy, blanket, of a book that acts as something of a balm for a weary heart.
February 21, 2025
This story is so cute! I needed to pick up book one because I enjoyed book two so much! More Reason to Stay by Ryder O'Malley is everything a small town romance would have: charm, humor, insta-love, meddling friends/family, corny town name (that is just too cute to ignore) and the hot chemistry between MCs. This is the story of Chris and Bobby. Chris is escaping Hollywood, hiding out in Firefly until his scandal blows over. Lucky for him, the little town of Firefly doesn't really care where he was before but is very interested in who he is, especially the owners of the B&B he's currently holed up in. From the meddling to fall festivals, Chris' hope in keeping it on the low goes out the window, especially when he meets handyman Bobby and whoa. Let the chemistry sizzle! It's a charismatic chaos and MM romance bundle that I love to read! This series shows promise, especially if this is your cup of tea. I can't wait to continue the series, five stars for More Reason to Stay. Happy reading all!
February 21, 2025
There is what we think we want. Sometimes we are going after something so hard that we are not questioning whether it is what we want. And then life hands us a pause/ a time out that makes us really see that it may not be the end all be all. That is what happens to Chris, whose career was important to him. He took a chance, made a movie to keep from getting typecast and it flopped and he needs time and space to recover. Hello Firefly Valley. There he knows he can find some peace away from the tabloids. But he gets more than he bargained for. He also finds out some things about himself and time to really reflect and see value in things he did not have time for. And he finds Bobby, the town handyman who he gets to know up close and personal right off the bat and then he gets to over time see that there is something special happening in Firefly, with this man and a whole lot of others who are genuine and caring - if a bit noisy - that are giving him reasons to stay. Delightful.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2025
More Reason to stay is the second book in Ryder O'Malley's the Bears of Firefly Valley series. Its a small town handyman/big town movie star, opposites attract story. Chris tried to move beyond the superhero roles he became famous for. His new movie was panned by critics and fans. He comes to Firefly Valley for a get-away, a vacation to recharge. Bobby is the town handyman, an island of calm in this quirky, crazy town.
Aside from the tension when their worlds collide, thank you paparazzi, this is a pretty smooth sailing, low angst story. The two have an immediate attraction, and when they finally get together, they sizzle. Townsfolk are nosy as heck and everybody knows everybody else's business. They are great secondary characters and there's fodder for more stories.
A quick, sweet read. I haven't read book one, but will definitely give it a look.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
Aside from the tension when their worlds collide, thank you paparazzi, this is a pretty smooth sailing, low angst story. The two have an immediate attraction, and when they finally get together, they sizzle. Townsfolk are nosy as heck and everybody knows everybody else's business. They are great secondary characters and there's fodder for more stories.
A quick, sweet read. I haven't read book one, but will definitely give it a look.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
April 19, 2025
This book was such a delightful surprise! It’s one of those quick reads that you breeze through with a smile on your face the whole way. The story is charming, the tone is light, and it has this sweet, cozy vibe that just makes you feel good.
The characters are absolutely adorable—each with their own quirks and personalities that make them easy to love. And the random bits of humor sprinkled throughout the story really add to the experience. It made me laugh out loud more than once, which I always appreciate.
Now, I’m usually not the biggest fan of insta-love, but somehow, in these books, it really works. The chemistry feels fun and sincere, and I found myself completely enjoying it. Honestly, I didn’t want the story to end! I need a Bobby or Chris in my life.
If you’re looking for something cute, funny, and heartwarming, I definitely recommend giving this one a try. It’s like a warm hug in book form.
The characters are absolutely adorable—each with their own quirks and personalities that make them easy to love. And the random bits of humor sprinkled throughout the story really add to the experience. It made me laugh out loud more than once, which I always appreciate.
Now, I’m usually not the biggest fan of insta-love, but somehow, in these books, it really works. The chemistry feels fun and sincere, and I found myself completely enjoying it. Honestly, I didn’t want the story to end! I need a Bobby or Chris in my life.
If you’re looking for something cute, funny, and heartwarming, I definitely recommend giving this one a try. It’s like a warm hug in book form.
February 19, 2025
I enjoyed this! 3.5 stars. I always love small town books, and this was no exception. I am a sucker for the premise (famous person retreating due to scandal/something else and finding love/purpose/etc. in a small town/ranch/forest/etc.). While this small town is filled with characters who interfere often, I can enjoy that when it is written well. This does have insta-lust (you don't even make it two dozen pages before they're getting intimate), and the love story is extremely sweet. I wasn't a total fan of the narrative style, which I realize is a me problem, so I couldn't personally rate it higher. However, if you're looking for an easy read set in a small town with great chemistry and fun characters, this is perfect for you.
February 21, 2025
"More Reason to Stay" is a delightful, feel-good romance that will capture your heart! Ryder O'Malley's writing is witty, charming, and full of humor, making this book a joy to read.
The story follows a Hollywood star who flees to Firefly Valley to escape the paparazzi, only to find himself caught up in the town's gossip mill and swept off his feet by a handsome handyman.
I adored the small-town setting, the quirky characters, and the slow-burn romance. The author's portrayal of the main character's struggles with fame and identity is also thoughtful and relatable.
Overall, "More Reason to Stay" is a lovely, uplifting romance that's perfect for fans of small-town charm, witty banter, and heartfelt love stories.
The story follows a Hollywood star who flees to Firefly Valley to escape the paparazzi, only to find himself caught up in the town's gossip mill and swept off his feet by a handsome handyman.
I adored the small-town setting, the quirky characters, and the slow-burn romance. The author's portrayal of the main character's struggles with fame and identity is also thoughtful and relatable.
Overall, "More Reason to Stay" is a lovely, uplifting romance that's perfect for fans of small-town charm, witty banter, and heartfelt love stories.
June 21, 2025
This was a wonderfully entertaining tale, the small town vibe was hilarious with gossip spreading so darn fast when a movie star is discovered in their midst. I have to say the cover is what grabbed me first, I can never resist burly men. Right from the start when Chris, a movie star that wants a break, orders a rental time on what he thought was a cute house in a small, quiet town, turns out it's just a room in said house owned by an old couple and the small town was filled with a mixture of characters, some curious, some grumpy, and some a touch odd, but all added energy and a lot of humor to the tale, they all were curious as to why there is a famous action movie star in their little out of the way, quirky town.
July 10, 2026
I don't give out many five star reviews, but this ticks all the boxes. Two emotionally mature MCs. No miscommunication, no near missed connection. Excellent supporting cast. Cute setting. Steady relationship development. Personality are well developed, match up and serve to put the characters in settings where they can reveal their positive qualities. Different Twist on a trope? Yes, the phony boyfriend thing is an eyeroll most places, but this one isn't so wrong. Both are confident. No one is getting bamboozled.
The hilarity of fictional village Firefly is really milked here, and I'm all for it. The gossip moves faster than you can circle the town square.
The spice was ripe and I was only missing a bit more physical description, but that's always my complaint.
The hilarity of fictional village Firefly is really milked here, and I'm all for it. The gossip moves faster than you can circle the town square.
The spice was ripe and I was only missing a bit more physical description, but that's always my complaint.
February 15, 2025
Chris, a Hollywood star, is trying to disappear into a small town away from the paparazzi, trying to get back to a normal routine (as normal as can be, really).
He needs to avoid gossip, blend into the background, but it seems he just can't avoid the kind handyman or his, um... tool.
This was a cute story, in a town that's full of nice & at times funny surprises (including a possible community striptease spaghetti dinner!).
It was easy to just want them to sort out everything & just get together officially, really.
I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.
He needs to avoid gossip, blend into the background, but it seems he just can't avoid the kind handyman or his, um... tool.
This was a cute story, in a town that's full of nice & at times funny surprises (including a possible community striptease spaghetti dinner!).
It was easy to just want them to sort out everything & just get together officially, really.
I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.
February 22, 2025
4.5 rounded up
My reason for deducting half a star is because I found it strange that Chris’s family is very rarely mentioned and never a part of the story. Why? Other than that, I enjoyed this a lot! I really liked the growing that Chris does and how he gets involved in the town. I liked how Bobby was so obviously happier with Chris in his life. They were sweet (and hot) together. I especially loved the town folk!
I’m not a fan of single POV, but didn’t deduct anything from my rating for this.
My reason for deducting half a star is because I found it strange that Chris’s family is very rarely mentioned and never a part of the story. Why? Other than that, I enjoyed this a lot! I really liked the growing that Chris does and how he gets involved in the town. I liked how Bobby was so obviously happier with Chris in his life. They were sweet (and hot) together. I especially loved the town folk!
I’m not a fan of single POV, but didn’t deduct anything from my rating for this.
February 22, 2025
I love Firefly! This town and it's inhabitants are fantastic! Chris, an actor is hiding out from papparazzi. Bobby, is a handyman who is happy and content with his life. Chris, takes his time and gets acquainted with the town, it's people and himself. Great story, absolutely funny and an amazing Found Family and supportive relatives. The author, has created a great foundation for the series. Chris needs to make some serious decisions about his private life and his career. Totally feel good story. Well done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2025
O'Malley certainly knows the joys and pains of living in a small town, all the interest in everyone else's business and the gossip when real information is lacking and uses it to wonderful effect in these stories of Firefly Valley. Chris and Bobby make a wonderful couple and it was delightful watching Chris fall in love with both Bobby and the things Firefly Valley can offer made for a wonderful read. Both this book and the first in the series are real winners and I look forward to more to come.
February 8, 2025
I am so in love with the town of Firefly. These characters blow me away and the nosy gossiping townsfolk aren’t malicious. They want the best for everyone and can’t help being invested in people. Once they adopt you, it is all over. You have family for life! Chris and Bobby are sheer perfection. Chris may not have known what he was looking for when he arrived in Firefly for a mini vacation, but he found his home.
February 9, 2025
More Reasons to stay is the second book the Bears of Firefly Valley series! This is a small town, low angst romance, between a big actor who is in a slump and a local handyman. It’s cute, the town and its characters have a Stars Hallows feel, everyone knows everything and, while nosy, also all willing to help out their own! It’s a single POV story and it’s about found family, making life decisions and embracing change!
October 29, 2025
It’s official I want to move to Firefly Valley.
Once again I am totally smitten with this town and the characters created by Ryder O‘Malley. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it but this universe definitely has some Stars Hollow vibes.
The story is cute and full of heart and banter. Never a dull moment. Chris and Bobby’s story is low angst falling in love through happenstance and a little (well a lot) of meddling. It’s sexy but with purpose.
I can’t wait for round three.
Once again I am totally smitten with this town and the characters created by Ryder O‘Malley. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it but this universe definitely has some Stars Hollow vibes.
The story is cute and full of heart and banter. Never a dull moment. Chris and Bobby’s story is low angst falling in love through happenstance and a little (well a lot) of meddling. It’s sexy but with purpose.
I can’t wait for round three.
February 14, 2025
More Reason to Stay is the second book in the Bears of Firefly Valley, each can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend the first book also. This is a small town, insta-lust, fake dating book about Christ and Bobby. The storyline was awesome and I loved the characters, I just love this town.
February 21, 2025
Absolutely adorkable. I love a bit of fake dating turned catching feels, and this town is so wonderfully insane and all up in everyone's business. The characters are all fantastic and well written, and somehow I want them to come off the page so I can meet them. Chris and Bobby were really cute, and I'm glad they found a home together.
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