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Fixer Upper #1
Room For Love
A single dad, a small town, and one very persistent carpenter.
LUKE
Noah needs my help. His house is a disaster—leaky pipes, warped floors, and enough structural issues to make any contractor cringe. Lucky for him, I love a good project.
The problem? Noah himself.
He’s all sharp edges and stubborn pride, with a permanent scowl that shouldn’t be attractive—but somehow is. Between fixing up his house and bonding with his ridiculously adorable kid, I start to realize… maybe I want more than just another job.
Too bad Noah’s made it clear he doesn’t have time for casual flings. And I don’t do commitment. So why does walking away feel like the one thing I can’t fix?
NOAH
I bought a fixer-upper. I didn’t realize it came with an infuriating, too-charming-for-his-own-good contractor.
Luke Garrett is everything I don’t have time for—loud, flirtatious, and way too eager to worm his way past my defenses. I hired him to repair my house, not my life.
But the more time we spend together, the harder it is to ignore the way he looks at me—or the way I catch myself looking back. He makes me want things I’ve tried to ignore my entire life.
Letting Luke in would be a mistake. I’ve built walls for a reason, and I can’t afford to let them come crashing down.
Even if, for the first time in a long time, it feels like someone is actually worth the risk.
LUKE
Noah needs my help. His house is a disaster—leaky pipes, warped floors, and enough structural issues to make any contractor cringe. Lucky for him, I love a good project.
The problem? Noah himself.
He’s all sharp edges and stubborn pride, with a permanent scowl that shouldn’t be attractive—but somehow is. Between fixing up his house and bonding with his ridiculously adorable kid, I start to realize… maybe I want more than just another job.
Too bad Noah’s made it clear he doesn’t have time for casual flings. And I don’t do commitment. So why does walking away feel like the one thing I can’t fix?
NOAH
I bought a fixer-upper. I didn’t realize it came with an infuriating, too-charming-for-his-own-good contractor.
Luke Garrett is everything I don’t have time for—loud, flirtatious, and way too eager to worm his way past my defenses. I hired him to repair my house, not my life.
But the more time we spend together, the harder it is to ignore the way he looks at me—or the way I catch myself looking back. He makes me want things I’ve tried to ignore my entire life.
Letting Luke in would be a mistake. I’ve built walls for a reason, and I can’t afford to let them come crashing down.
Even if, for the first time in a long time, it feels like someone is actually worth the risk.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2025
180 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 4, 2025
This book was unfortunately not for me. I didn't really like it, most of the time i was kinda bored and I disliked almost every character. I wanted to dnf it a few times but I pushed through.
I don't even know where to start with these characters.
At first I liked Luke, he is like the charming boy next door. Some things about him annoyed me though, I hated that he told Noah's kid what to do, even at the first meeting. I would be furious, if a stranger told my child to do their homework.
He is supposed to be this big bachelor and one night stand guy but can see himself as part of their family at the 3. meeting? The fuck? You shy away from relationships for years but want to jump in head first, into a relationship where a kid is involved? I love insta love, really do but someone that doesn't do relationships, does a 180 so quick, seems strange.
At first I disliked Noah but then he became intriguing to me, with his struggles about his sexuality. I thought, yes finally something interesting but that fizzled out so quickly. He struggled for decades with, not just coming out but also to be honest with himself and then he just shrugged and didn't care that people know?
Their third act breakup was incredibly stupid tbh, Noah was an idiot. People told Luke, that he should fight for them but why? What does Noah bring to this relationship? Sorry I know that sounds harsh.
Now to Noah's child, Eli.
I like kids, truly I do. Single parent even is a big selling point for a book for me but I didn't like Eli at all. He seemed waay older than 6 in my opinion and I'm sorry but he was annoying. Mr Luke here, Uncle Luke there, I wanted to scream. He was in way to many scenes imo, I know he is 6, so he is always with his dad but wow.
We also didn't get any character descriptions.
The book felt really really repetitive and drawn out.
I hated that they didn't talk about their crushes as teenagers, especially because Noah was Luke's sexual awakening, sounds like am interesting topic to me.
The book also didn't include an epilogue, what I dislike.
The one thing that (almost) annoyed me the most though... Their first kiss? Their first kiss was while it was storming, the house flouded and some ceiling collapsed. Sure great timing. Nothing screams romance more than some nice indoor waterfalls.
The second book in this series sounds intriguing to me though but I don't think I will continue reading this series.
Don't let me discourage you though! I'm sure there are a lot of people that will enjoy this book a lot!! It's not a bad book by any means!
I don't even know where to start with these characters.
At first I liked Luke, he is like the charming boy next door. Some things about him annoyed me though, I hated that he told Noah's kid what to do, even at the first meeting. I would be furious, if a stranger told my child to do their homework.
He is supposed to be this big bachelor and one night stand guy but can see himself as part of their family at the 3. meeting? The fuck? You shy away from relationships for years but want to jump in head first, into a relationship where a kid is involved? I love insta love, really do but someone that doesn't do relationships, does a 180 so quick, seems strange.
At first I disliked Noah but then he became intriguing to me, with his struggles about his sexuality. I thought, yes finally something interesting but that fizzled out so quickly. He struggled for decades with, not just coming out but also to be honest with himself and then he just shrugged and didn't care that people know?
Their third act breakup was incredibly stupid tbh, Noah was an idiot. People told Luke, that he should fight for them but why? What does Noah bring to this relationship? Sorry I know that sounds harsh.
Now to Noah's child, Eli.
I like kids, truly I do. Single parent even is a big selling point for a book for me but I didn't like Eli at all. He seemed waay older than 6 in my opinion and I'm sorry but he was annoying. Mr Luke here, Uncle Luke there, I wanted to scream. He was in way to many scenes imo, I know he is 6, so he is always with his dad but wow.
We also didn't get any character descriptions.
The book felt really really repetitive and drawn out.
I hated that they didn't talk about their crushes as teenagers, especially because Noah was Luke's sexual awakening, sounds like am interesting topic to me.
The book also didn't include an epilogue, what I dislike.
The one thing that (almost) annoyed me the most though... Their first kiss? Their first kiss was while it was storming, the house flouded and some ceiling collapsed. Sure great timing. Nothing screams romance more than some nice indoor waterfalls.
The second book in this series sounds intriguing to me though but I don't think I will continue reading this series.
Don't let me discourage you though! I'm sure there are a lot of people that will enjoy this book a lot!! It's not a bad book by any means!
December 30, 2025
Very good fixer upper romance!, really had me hooked!! Loved Noah and Luke!!
April 15, 2025
Making Changes . . .
Luke Garrett was a generous man who gave his time and skills to help others. Today he was fixing Mrs. Chen’s porch before he went to his job at Anderson Homeworks. Of course Mrs. Chen had a nephew coming to visit and would love him to meet Luke, but he teased her that his mom would be upset if he ran off to live in Boston with Mrs. Chen’s nephew. His sister Megan texted him to come to the bakery where he figured he would endure more matchmaking… but it was worth it for the cookies she saved for him. Then his other sister, Rachel, arrived and said Noah Thompson they all knew in high school needed help. The house he just bought is falling apart, peeling paint, rotted wood, and potentially significant water damage. Luke could truly be a friend if he offered to fix it up as a side job. Rachel showed him some pictures and his mind identified the necessary repairs… despite the upcoming project he had at work. Bringing the old house back to life called to him. He really wanted to do this… but then his boss called. Their huge Tillerman project that could get them recognition beyond simply “local” work just got moved up, and that had to come first.
Noah tightened the wrench to stop the steady drip he had been battling for more than an hour this morning; instead of fixing it, the sudden arc of water soaked everything around him. His 6-year-old Eli wasn’t impressed either. YouTube had made this look easy -- but it wasn’t. His shirt was ruined and Eli was distracted from his homework, asking him why they bought a broken house. And he wasn’t even sure he had a clean shirt in the closet. Will Luke be able to find a way to work on the house that desperately needs fixing when he has no spare time left at all? Will Noah realize he needs Luke in his life for more than just for fixing the house? Their hearts were in the right place and even Eli made the bonding easier. But can Noah take a risk on Luke who flatly denies wanting a lasting relationship? (For me, the characters brought the story together so well.)
Luke Garrett was a generous man who gave his time and skills to help others. Today he was fixing Mrs. Chen’s porch before he went to his job at Anderson Homeworks. Of course Mrs. Chen had a nephew coming to visit and would love him to meet Luke, but he teased her that his mom would be upset if he ran off to live in Boston with Mrs. Chen’s nephew. His sister Megan texted him to come to the bakery where he figured he would endure more matchmaking… but it was worth it for the cookies she saved for him. Then his other sister, Rachel, arrived and said Noah Thompson they all knew in high school needed help. The house he just bought is falling apart, peeling paint, rotted wood, and potentially significant water damage. Luke could truly be a friend if he offered to fix it up as a side job. Rachel showed him some pictures and his mind identified the necessary repairs… despite the upcoming project he had at work. Bringing the old house back to life called to him. He really wanted to do this… but then his boss called. Their huge Tillerman project that could get them recognition beyond simply “local” work just got moved up, and that had to come first.
Noah tightened the wrench to stop the steady drip he had been battling for more than an hour this morning; instead of fixing it, the sudden arc of water soaked everything around him. His 6-year-old Eli wasn’t impressed either. YouTube had made this look easy -- but it wasn’t. His shirt was ruined and Eli was distracted from his homework, asking him why they bought a broken house. And he wasn’t even sure he had a clean shirt in the closet. Will Luke be able to find a way to work on the house that desperately needs fixing when he has no spare time left at all? Will Noah realize he needs Luke in his life for more than just for fixing the house? Their hearts were in the right place and even Eli made the bonding easier. But can Noah take a risk on Luke who flatly denies wanting a lasting relationship? (For me, the characters brought the story together so well.)
April 16, 2025
I believe this was a new to me author and I was pleasantly surprised by the writing style and this start to a new series "The Fixer Upper'. I always enjoy a series.
This small town romance is very sweet. It mainly deals with Luke and Noah coming to terms that they actually are a good match and don't need to fear being rejected.They get their hea and cherish it together with sweet, observant Eli who steals many a scenes from his dad Noah.
Noah and Luke actually know of the other since they where in the same high school and Noah was friends with Luke his sisters.
Noah has moved back home since his divorce. He bought a house, how I still don't know how it is in such a state. Que Luke who is a builder/ carpenter and pushed by his sisters to help Noah & Eli out. The storytelling about the house, its mishaps, renovation and all flowed really well. I did like the interactions between Eli, Luke & Noah.
The friendship to more relationship in this MM bi awakening developed at a steady pace. I did like the very supportive side characters and would wish those on others. Not less important, since it al started with the house; that gets a complete overhaul.
My only point of criticism, the slightly repetative inner turmoil of Noah and less so for Luke.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This small town romance is very sweet. It mainly deals with Luke and Noah coming to terms that they actually are a good match and don't need to fear being rejected.They get their hea and cherish it together with sweet, observant Eli who steals many a scenes from his dad Noah.
Noah and Luke actually know of the other since they where in the same high school and Noah was friends with Luke his sisters.
Noah has moved back home since his divorce. He bought a house, how I still don't know how it is in such a state. Que Luke who is a builder/ carpenter and pushed by his sisters to help Noah & Eli out. The storytelling about the house, its mishaps, renovation and all flowed really well. I did like the interactions between Eli, Luke & Noah.
The friendship to more relationship in this MM bi awakening developed at a steady pace. I did like the very supportive side characters and would wish those on others. Not less important, since it al started with the house; that gets a complete overhaul.
My only point of criticism, the slightly repetative inner turmoil of Noah and less so for Luke.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2025
As a parent of an early elementary student, I’m not usually a fan of how they’re presented in fiction. Little kids seem way more coherent in fiction than my kid is in real life. Eli, a first grader, is portrayed a bit better than most. He asks about the big words. He latches on to the new adult (something my kid would totally do). I still think he pays a bit more attention to conversations and speaks better than any kid his age, but given how hard that is to convey, I’ll forgive it. Noah, on the other hand, is a great dad. which is the mark of a great book. I’ll count this as a win in my reading pile and be looking for more by this author.
April 3, 2025
After his amicable divorce, single dad Noah returns to his childhood town with his 6 year old son to live. He buys an old fixer upper house not realising how bad a state its in. When things start to go downhill very quickly, he gives in and hires Luke to help slowly repair his house. Luke loves restoring houses, he learnt everything he knows from his dad. He knows the house has history and for many years was not looked after. He is excited to try to restore it to its former glory. Eli, Noah's son is such an amazing boy so smart and just can't help but live him.
This is a slow burn and as the two men get closer, Noah has to come to terms that he may be attracted to men and that maybe having someone els in his life to help bring up his son is a good thing. I loved how Luke's family remembered Noah from childhood and accept him and his son into their family fold. There were a few frustrating times when Noah took two steps backwards in tenor relationship as he struggled with his duty as a father but over all it was a great read.
This is a slow burn and as the two men get closer, Noah has to come to terms that he may be attracted to men and that maybe having someone els in his life to help bring up his son is a good thing. I loved how Luke's family remembered Noah from childhood and accept him and his son into their family fold. There were a few frustrating times when Noah took two steps backwards in tenor relationship as he struggled with his duty as a father but over all it was a great read.
April 17, 2025
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it won't be the last. I really enjoyed this book. This is the story of Luke Garrett and Noah Thompson. Luke has lived in the same small town his entire life. He learned his love of wood working from his dad. He went on to make home repairs his career. But he is a genuinely kind and thoughtful person. When his sister volunteers him to help fix up a Queen Anne that their friend from school has just bought. When he shows up, he is surprised to see Noah and his little son Eli. At six years old, Eli is fascinated with any and all home repair jobs. Noah has moved back home after his divorce. He is a teacher at a local school. Noah and his ex wife are still best friends and co-parent amicably. Noah wants to have a safe and happy home for Eli to grow up in. This is their story. It is sweet and fun to read. The book is well written. The two of them have to face some struggles to get the HEA they deserve. I enjoyed this book.
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.
March 28, 2025
Small town, bi awakening
Noah is back home after a divorce with his 6 yr old Eli.
His fixer upper house has turned into the money pit and he's desperately holding onto rigid structures and routines in order to make it through the day.
Luke is a handyman and one of his twin sisters was best friends with Noah in high school.
His sisters have offered his services to help Noah get his house fixed.
Luke begins working on the house while flirting outrageously with Noah and bonding with Eli.
Noah has absolutely no intention of starting a new relationship, he's still deeply wounded and there's also the fact that he doesn't date men.
Although, maybe that's changing.
Luke, on the other hand has never felt the need to go further than a one night stand but suddenly Noah and Eli have him wishing for something more permanent.
It was great seeing them navigate a completely new to them type of relationship and I really enjoyed Luke's time with Eli and the small town aspect.
Noah is back home after a divorce with his 6 yr old Eli.
His fixer upper house has turned into the money pit and he's desperately holding onto rigid structures and routines in order to make it through the day.
Luke is a handyman and one of his twin sisters was best friends with Noah in high school.
His sisters have offered his services to help Noah get his house fixed.
Luke begins working on the house while flirting outrageously with Noah and bonding with Eli.
Noah has absolutely no intention of starting a new relationship, he's still deeply wounded and there's also the fact that he doesn't date men.
Although, maybe that's changing.
Luke, on the other hand has never felt the need to go further than a one night stand but suddenly Noah and Eli have him wishing for something more permanent.
It was great seeing them navigate a completely new to them type of relationship and I really enjoyed Luke's time with Eli and the small town aspect.
Read
April 8, 2025This book takes a fun and flirty approach to home improvements... with Noah purchasing a money pit that is falling down around his and his adorable son's ears... and Luke stepping in to help him keep the place from falling any further.
It's a quick read that's full of heart, a low angst, slow burn, single father, opposites attract, sexual awakening in a small town that just keeps you wanting to read right to the end in one sitting... and I can't wait to see where the series goes next!
It's a quick read that's full of heart, a low angst, slow burn, single father, opposites attract, sexual awakening in a small town that just keeps you wanting to read right to the end in one sitting... and I can't wait to see where the series goes next!
July 28, 2025
This was so good.
I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and their family and friends. The way Luke learned from his dad and wants to share that with Eli was so beautiful. Even though Luke was commitment shy I do think Noah grew the most. And Eli was totally adorable. Easy to see why everyone loved him.
I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and their family and friends. The way Luke learned from his dad and wants to share that with Eli was so beautiful. Even though Luke was commitment shy I do think Noah grew the most. And Eli was totally adorable. Easy to see why everyone loved him.
March 30, 2025
Noah and Luke
This was a really cute and sweet romance between Noah and Luke. I loved how everyone was really accepting of their relationship including Noah's ex-wife. The plot was interesting, the kid was cute and everyone lived happily ever after.
This was a really cute and sweet romance between Noah and Luke. I loved how everyone was really accepting of their relationship including Noah's ex-wife. The plot was interesting, the kid was cute and everyone lived happily ever after.
February 2, 2026
DNF @ 28%
Noah's constant debriefs with his coworker Sarah felt lazy. How the heck did his new coworker that Noah was insecure about asking for help? Or that he'd been struggling with a newfound attraction to men? Was Sarah this omniscient being meant to let Noah decompress his struggles externally? The author should've just written her as a freaking therapist then at least the verbal dumping of Noah's internal struggles would've been believable. Noah actually having literally the same conversation with his ex in the next scene was repetitive. The author should've cut out the one with Sarah and let that one be the expo dump.
"Luke couldn't remember the last time he'd sat down to a proper home-cooked dinner. Sure, he showed up at his parents' place most Sundays, and yeah, sometimes he grabbed a bite with his sisters and their families, but this was different." So did his family just cook poorly or order takeout all the time whenever Luke visited? Or was Luke being pedantic and maybe he visited his family for breakfast/lunch but not dinner? Because otherwise the whole "Luke couldn't remember the last time he had a home-cooked dinner" line was just false considering the implication that his family did cook for dinner when he visited. The sentence was supposed to highlight how special Luke thought Noah's cooking was, so the author could've done with literally any other metaphor to indicate that rather than go with "I do get this all the time, but your food is different, Noah".
Also, why did Luke suddenly start seeing himself as part of Noah's family when he literally had just admitted he was more of a one night stand sort of guy like 2 chapters ago? A high school crush from two decades ago should not have been enough to make him do a 180 on his stance on being single when Noah was just another pretty face to him at the moment. They'd not had any real interactions for him to suddenly develop romantic feelings toward the guy so this really was just instalove.
I gave up when Luke just continually threw the "I could see myself living with him" and "Why does being with Noah feel so special?" through internal monologues when nothing significant had really happened between them. Really poor characterization imo since Luke's sudden desire to be in a relationship comes out of nowhere and without justification.
TL;DR: Noah's chapters felt boring because the story was too explicit about his struggles, not letting the tension actually build because Noah was always being talked by psychics who knew what his deepest problems were (his coworker and his ex). Luke's chapters would've been fine if he'd stayed consistent as a character with regards to hooking up and if he hadn't just automagically fallen for Noah when they'd done nothing but walk through the dilapidated house together.
Noah's constant debriefs with his coworker Sarah felt lazy. How the heck did his new coworker that Noah was insecure about asking for help? Or that he'd been struggling with a newfound attraction to men? Was Sarah this omniscient being meant to let Noah decompress his struggles externally? The author should've just written her as a freaking therapist then at least the verbal dumping of Noah's internal struggles would've been believable. Noah actually having literally the same conversation with his ex in the next scene was repetitive. The author should've cut out the one with Sarah and let that one be the expo dump.
"Luke couldn't remember the last time he'd sat down to a proper home-cooked dinner. Sure, he showed up at his parents' place most Sundays, and yeah, sometimes he grabbed a bite with his sisters and their families, but this was different." So did his family just cook poorly or order takeout all the time whenever Luke visited? Or was Luke being pedantic and maybe he visited his family for breakfast/lunch but not dinner? Because otherwise the whole "Luke couldn't remember the last time he had a home-cooked dinner" line was just false considering the implication that his family did cook for dinner when he visited. The sentence was supposed to highlight how special Luke thought Noah's cooking was, so the author could've done with literally any other metaphor to indicate that rather than go with "I do get this all the time, but your food is different, Noah".
Also, why did Luke suddenly start seeing himself as part of Noah's family when he literally had just admitted he was more of a one night stand sort of guy like 2 chapters ago? A high school crush from two decades ago should not have been enough to make him do a 180 on his stance on being single when Noah was just another pretty face to him at the moment. They'd not had any real interactions for him to suddenly develop romantic feelings toward the guy so this really was just instalove.
I gave up when Luke just continually threw the "I could see myself living with him" and "Why does being with Noah feel so special?" through internal monologues when nothing significant had really happened between them. Really poor characterization imo since Luke's sudden desire to be in a relationship comes out of nowhere and without justification.
TL;DR: Noah's chapters felt boring because the story was too explicit about his struggles, not letting the tension actually build because Noah was always being talked by psychics who knew what his deepest problems were (his coworker and his ex). Luke's chapters would've been fine if he'd stayed consistent as a character with regards to hooking up and if he hadn't just automagically fallen for Noah when they'd done nothing but walk through the dilapidated house together.
March 26, 2025
When you are a single dad of a lively six year old, on great terms with your ex, moving back to your home town to teach in the High School and have bought what you hope is a fixer-upper, there really isn't room in your life for love. At least that is what Noah insists on telling himself.
When you still live in your home town, your brother, sisters and parents all still there too, one sister running the best bakery ever, working in your dream job as a carpenter and general handy man, making your own furniture in your spare time there is no need for romance, for relationships. One night stands are just fine, no strings, no need for hearts to be involved. At least this is what Luke insists on telling himself, and all those around him.
Noah was best friends with Rachel, one of his sisters and twin to Megan when they were in High School. Luke had a crush on Noah back then but was convinced that was all it would ever be, that Noah was straight. That has never stopped his best friend Keaton, or his sisters for that matter teasing him. Being straight is what Noah thinks of himself as too though there has always been a nagging in his mind about that.
When it appears serious work is going to need to be done on the house to save Noah a breakdown, and because he loves the house, wants to help and has a brilliant new helper in young Eli, Noah's son, Luke takes on the job. It is not going to be plain sailing, not for the house restoration or for either of their hearts. Luckily for them this is a great community who will all pitch in to do what they can to help - including some meddling on the matchmaking front! The problem is fist Luke and his commitment to not being committed, which crumbles hourly the more he is around Noah and Noah's questioning of his sexuality and willingness to let someone in with Eli so ready to give his love.
This story could be one of angst, a broken house, two slightly broken men, but it is far from that. It is a beautiful story full of heart. Every time a new issue arises with the house the men come together, come closer, Eli gets impossibly cuter. They step up to the challenges and soon what ostensibly is the house being fixed is also them, their relationship. This story could be read on a number of levels but that is how I read it, a meshing of house and heart. An awakening, a realisation, a new family finding their way and a solid foundation from which to work. An outstanding novel that has won my heart.
When you still live in your home town, your brother, sisters and parents all still there too, one sister running the best bakery ever, working in your dream job as a carpenter and general handy man, making your own furniture in your spare time there is no need for romance, for relationships. One night stands are just fine, no strings, no need for hearts to be involved. At least this is what Luke insists on telling himself, and all those around him.
Noah was best friends with Rachel, one of his sisters and twin to Megan when they were in High School. Luke had a crush on Noah back then but was convinced that was all it would ever be, that Noah was straight. That has never stopped his best friend Keaton, or his sisters for that matter teasing him. Being straight is what Noah thinks of himself as too though there has always been a nagging in his mind about that.
When it appears serious work is going to need to be done on the house to save Noah a breakdown, and because he loves the house, wants to help and has a brilliant new helper in young Eli, Noah's son, Luke takes on the job. It is not going to be plain sailing, not for the house restoration or for either of their hearts. Luckily for them this is a great community who will all pitch in to do what they can to help - including some meddling on the matchmaking front! The problem is fist Luke and his commitment to not being committed, which crumbles hourly the more he is around Noah and Noah's questioning of his sexuality and willingness to let someone in with Eli so ready to give his love.
This story could be one of angst, a broken house, two slightly broken men, but it is far from that. It is a beautiful story full of heart. Every time a new issue arises with the house the men come together, come closer, Eli gets impossibly cuter. They step up to the challenges and soon what ostensibly is the house being fixed is also them, their relationship. This story could be read on a number of levels but that is how I read it, a meshing of house and heart. An awakening, a realisation, a new family finding their way and a solid foundation from which to work. An outstanding novel that has won my heart.
April 9, 2025
I really liked Luke and Noah. This is a very cute and low angst bi-awakening, small town romance with a single dad and an great son.
It's on the slow burner side, both men think they know what they want but when fate or better a fixer-upper house decides to throw them together they are slowly rethinking their views.
You have Luke the one who doesn't want a relationship, who is happy when working with wood and in construction. One-night stands are the only thing he does.
Then Noah comes back to town, a friend of his sisters and his first crush. With his son he bought a fixer upper Luke can't stop himself wanting to get his hands on, first the house but slowly and slowly he also falls for Noah and Eli and wants more, something permanent, a future.
I love how Luke sees the house, not the disaster zone but as a promise and that it can held a future.
These two fit great together, there is chemistry and I love how Luke's family is embracing Noah and his son without second thought. Even when Noah struggles with the need to protect Eli with his growing feelings for Luke, it's not drama for the sake of it but to show how Noah also has to learn to come to terms with a future he didn't think of having.
I do hope for more books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It's on the slow burner side, both men think they know what they want but when fate or better a fixer-upper house decides to throw them together they are slowly rethinking their views.
You have Luke the one who doesn't want a relationship, who is happy when working with wood and in construction. One-night stands are the only thing he does.
Then Noah comes back to town, a friend of his sisters and his first crush. With his son he bought a fixer upper Luke can't stop himself wanting to get his hands on, first the house but slowly and slowly he also falls for Noah and Eli and wants more, something permanent, a future.
I love how Luke sees the house, not the disaster zone but as a promise and that it can held a future.
These two fit great together, there is chemistry and I love how Luke's family is embracing Noah and his son without second thought. Even when Noah struggles with the need to protect Eli with his growing feelings for Luke, it's not drama for the sake of it but to show how Noah also has to learn to come to terms with a future he didn't think of having.
I do hope for more books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2025
Small town
single dad
bi-awakening
slow burn
Heart-warming slow burn falling in love story between a single dad with the most precious six year old who always thought he was straight and a carpenter/general handyman who always said he didn't want a relationship. And yet both have to discover some interesting facts about themselves to find what they're needing: each other
The small town setting was handled great, full of many supporting and accepting people. A real wonderful community! It warmed my heart.
Eli, the six year old was an important part of the story without being too obnoxious or taking up too much space in the story. He definitely became dear to me very fast.
And our two MCs? I liked them very much. Their voices were different enough to tell them apart. They were lifelike, not one dimensional or flat, well developed I'd say. A big plus for me.
What I loved beside this? That the ex wife was not made the villain, instead she was supportive too when Noah discovered his bi-sexuality.
I am a huge fan of single dad stories. Pair it with bi-awakening and a cinnamon-roll of MC and I'm a very happy camper. Both MCs as well as the child Eli were very likeable and I was rooting for them all.
Wonderful, heart-warming and very enjoyable read. I was entertained and didn't want to stop reading.
I can hardly wait for more in this series.
I have received a complimentary copy but this is my honest and willingly given opinion
single dad
bi-awakening
slow burn
Heart-warming slow burn falling in love story between a single dad with the most precious six year old who always thought he was straight and a carpenter/general handyman who always said he didn't want a relationship. And yet both have to discover some interesting facts about themselves to find what they're needing: each other
The small town setting was handled great, full of many supporting and accepting people. A real wonderful community! It warmed my heart.
Eli, the six year old was an important part of the story without being too obnoxious or taking up too much space in the story. He definitely became dear to me very fast.
And our two MCs? I liked them very much. Their voices were different enough to tell them apart. They were lifelike, not one dimensional or flat, well developed I'd say. A big plus for me.
What I loved beside this? That the ex wife was not made the villain, instead she was supportive too when Noah discovered his bi-sexuality.
I am a huge fan of single dad stories. Pair it with bi-awakening and a cinnamon-roll of MC and I'm a very happy camper. Both MCs as well as the child Eli were very likeable and I was rooting for them all.
Wonderful, heart-warming and very enjoyable read. I was entertained and didn't want to stop reading.
I can hardly wait for more in this series.
I have received a complimentary copy but this is my honest and willingly given opinion
April 18, 2025
I loved this book and absolutely adored Eli. I taught first grade for many years, and he was the epitome of a first-grader. The things out of their mouth, OMG, they are aware of so much around them and want to question everything. The needed house repairs were the catalyst for Noah and Luke, but Eli really brought them together and became the glue in so many ways. Who could resist that little guy, certainly not Luke, and he almost became a mini-Luke with his ideas and documenting what needed to be done, his map of the house and all the squeaks, along with everything else. Luke and Noah both found what they needed in each other, once the fears were able to be put aside. A huge, wonderful found family for Noah and Eli, and a family for Luke to love and care for, what could be better. A real feel-good read from my standpoint. Looking forward to book number 2 for this author.
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.
March 27, 2025
What a fun book to read. Quinn has a great grasp on small town characters and how they relate to each other. I love the idea of this community that supports each other, even with the queer angle. Maybe not everyone, but many of them. It's a great take on the MidWest community many of us grew up in.
Noah buys a house, a real money pit. Every place he turns, something else needs work. All he wants is a safe home in the community he grew up for his son. Unfortunately, the real estate agent sold him a dream and not anything safe for him and his six-year-old son.
Enter Luke, handy man extraordinaire, and nuisance from his childhood. Well, Luke is no longer an immature brat. He's professional, capable, and fills Noah's thoughts in a way that he questions everything.
Noah buys a house, a real money pit. Every place he turns, something else needs work. All he wants is a safe home in the community he grew up for his son. Unfortunately, the real estate agent sold him a dream and not anything safe for him and his six-year-old son.
Enter Luke, handy man extraordinaire, and nuisance from his childhood. Well, Luke is no longer an immature brat. He's professional, capable, and fills Noah's thoughts in a way that he questions everything.
March 28, 2025
"They taught us that love isn't only about grand gestures. It's about showing up. Being there. Building something that lasts. "
My first read from this author, and I especially enjoyed the characters! Both MCs and all the side characters felt multi-dimensional which can be rare. The timeline of the relationship and struggles felt realistic, and very sweet to watch them build a friendship foundation on the way to their hea home.
For me there were a couple of pacing issues in the 50-80% mark, a couple of chapters that dragged a bit. But overall, a great lower angst read with good characters and low-medium spice!
My first read from this author, and I especially enjoyed the characters! Both MCs and all the side characters felt multi-dimensional which can be rare. The timeline of the relationship and struggles felt realistic, and very sweet to watch them build a friendship foundation on the way to their hea home.
For me there were a couple of pacing issues in the 50-80% mark, a couple of chapters that dragged a bit. But overall, a great lower angst read with good characters and low-medium spice!
March 28, 2025
I absolutely love a story with a flirty man helping another man fix up his house, and well other things to if you know what I mean! Noah is a single dad who thinks he has everything needs. His son Eli is a super good kid, and he has friends and family all around. But how can he resist Luke's flirting while he is fixing things? I adored that Eli bonded with Luke the most though! Definitely a realistic story of starting over and incorporating your past in with your future to make an even bigger family!
July 4, 2025
4.5 Stars
I found this to be sugar sweet in the best way! Loved Luke, Noah, and Eli and the happiness they found together. Throw in a supportive cast of characters, a house that just needed some TLC, and a charming small town? I’m sold.
Only hang up was the 3rd act breakup. Thought it was a stretch especially when i expected the conflict to be external (ie Noah’s parents and small town gossip), otherwise read this in a day and loved every minute!
Read For
- M/M Romance
- Small Town Setting
- Single Dad
- Sister’s Best Friend
- Bi Awakening
I found this to be sugar sweet in the best way! Loved Luke, Noah, and Eli and the happiness they found together. Throw in a supportive cast of characters, a house that just needed some TLC, and a charming small town? I’m sold.
Only hang up was the 3rd act breakup. Thought it was a stretch especially when i expected the conflict to be external (ie Noah’s parents and small town gossip), otherwise read this in a day and loved every minute!
Read For
- M/M Romance
- Small Town Setting
- Single Dad
- Sister’s Best Friend
- Bi Awakening
March 23, 2025
This book is really up my alley. I love a small town, single dad, bi awakening cozy romance.
Luke and Noah know of each other since their teen years. Noah is a friend of Luke's sisters and both have experienced some crush towards the other. Noah is back in town after a divorce and need a handyman to help with the house he just bought for him and his son. Luke's sisters insist that Luke is the man for the job and puts pressure on both men, Noah to choose Luke for the job and Luke for helping their friend in need.
When they meet again sparks fly even though both men are wary of change and commitments. From here on they are slowly working toward a relationship both can comitt to.
At one point I was a bit irritated with Noah. He was driving me crazy whit his "logical" thinking, but he luckily changed his opinion and I didn't have to tear my hair out. I think this was my second book from this author and I will definitely be looking for more in the future. I highly recommend this book.
Luke and Noah know of each other since their teen years. Noah is a friend of Luke's sisters and both have experienced some crush towards the other. Noah is back in town after a divorce and need a handyman to help with the house he just bought for him and his son. Luke's sisters insist that Luke is the man for the job and puts pressure on both men, Noah to choose Luke for the job and Luke for helping their friend in need.
When they meet again sparks fly even though both men are wary of change and commitments. From here on they are slowly working toward a relationship both can comitt to.
At one point I was a bit irritated with Noah. He was driving me crazy whit his "logical" thinking, but he luckily changed his opinion and I didn't have to tear my hair out. I think this was my second book from this author and I will definitely be looking for more in the future. I highly recommend this book.
April 12, 2025
This was a really sweet story of two empathetic characters. However it was a bit too sweet for me. There wasn’t enough intrigue and I wish some of the story would have been moving forward without influence of others. I mean it’s nice that they have good friends standing by their sides. But when every friend and family keep telling them what to do it felt a bit forced.
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.
May 13, 2025
This was cute as hell! I'm developing such a soft spot for like elementary age kids in these books, which is absolutely not something I ever plan on analyzing ever as it pertains to my own life ever, nope! All the setbacks the house took them through was fun, even when it was sending Noah into full on panic spirals, and the town was fun, I hope we get a good length series out of it. Tons of characters to love.
March 25, 2026
Luke and Noah didn't want to find a relationship, but fate had other plans. Poor Noah was dealing with a six year old son, coming to terms with his sexuality, and a fixer upper house that was falling apart. In walks Luke who has never wanted to settle down, and he is completely smitten with both Noah and Eli. There wasn't a ton of angst, but the guys definitely had to work some things out. I liked both of their families. This was a very sweet read.
March 27, 2025
Luke loves his single life. He lives in a small town collecting side projects. When one of these side projects leads him to Noah, he gets more than a simple house to fix.
I enjoyed the story as it unfolded. The book was a fun biawakening quick read. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I enjoyed the story as it unfolded. The book was a fun biawakening quick read. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 29, 2025
Room For Love is the first book in The Fixer Upper series by Quinn Ward. This is Luke and Noah's story. Noah is a single dad with wall high shields around him. Luke is the contractor hired to renovate his house. I love the interaction between the MCs. This is a bi-awakening with all the good feels.
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.
April 6, 2025
Help fix up a GEM IN THE ROUGH house?
Luke will try, but he didn't factor in the storm and unexpected shody past repairs done to the main framework of the house. Luke also didn't factor in the man Noah and his son Eli, whom he would spend a lot of time with during the rebuilding of the house. THANK YOU, QUINN! ENJOY!
Luke will try, but he didn't factor in the storm and unexpected shody past repairs done to the main framework of the house. Luke also didn't factor in the man Noah and his son Eli, whom he would spend a lot of time with during the rebuilding of the house. THANK YOU, QUINN! ENJOY!
November 16, 2025
This was just so boring. I hated the third person writing. I hate fighting the feelings bullshit. Dude even wrote a fucking list on why dating Noah was a bad idea! 🙄. Then we have the fucking dreaded, uncalled for pointless third act breakup. Again….🙄. Also, the kid annoyed the ever loving shit out of me! Little shit cockblocked them at every turn!!
January 7, 2026
Angst, all the angst, nothing but the angst!
The blurb said low angst but I finally stopped at 42% where the MC still won't admit to being anything other than straight and has spent the entire book think and stressing and worrying.... Please don't put low angst if it is literally all the book is. This upsets those who don't want to read it and loses the target audience!
The blurb said low angst but I finally stopped at 42% where the MC still won't admit to being anything other than straight and has spent the entire book think and stressing and worrying.... Please don't put low angst if it is literally all the book is. This upsets those who don't want to read it and loses the target audience!
March 27, 2025
I absolutely loved this story. This was such a wonderful small town romance with all of the feels. The characters were so real and down to earth and the world building was perfect. I can’t wait for the next story.
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