Barrett "Rett" Mason has never found the one girl who can tame his wild heart. And sometimes life is just easier and less complicated without love. While working for Kingston Construction, Barrett becomes fast friends with the owner's son, Cole. They have one major thing in common-- their insatiable appetite for women. But when Barrett meets Cole's sister Finley, the easy, care-free, no commitment lifestyle he's grown used to suddenly loses its appeal. Now Barrett has met his match and the one girl who is just too damn impossible to walk out on.
For several years, Finley King has been a slave to the anxiety disorder that gripped her and kept her from enjoying life. Now with the support of her family, friends, and medication she is on the mend. But the one thing she lacks in her otherwise lush existence as a rock star's daughter is passion. Barrett Mason is about to change that...
Tess Oliver is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Custom Culture series and a large collection of other romances. She is well known for her relatable characters who "become your friends" as you journey with them and for intriguing stories that will have you "devouring her books in just one day". Tess has been featured on USA Today's 'Happy Ever After' site, and in publications including Glamour UK and Elle UK magazines.
Characters: My favorite character was Some Pig. All of the humans in the book...ugh! It seemed every time Finley opened her mouth my response was -
From Finley's first meeting with Rett she talked about sex, struts in a skimpy bikini and throws her boobs in his face. 2nd meeting she takes off her panties and lets him touch her. But then she is always like "I’m so inexperienced.” “I can’t believe I just did that.” “Oh my God, I’m not normally like this.”
Storyline: To be fair, I started with book 4 so maybe if I read the previous 3 I might have a better handle on this novel.
Poor guy (Rett), rich girl (Finley), complete opposites. They’re both a mess. Something happens, rich girl falls apart, she shuts poor guy out. He says something mean to her. In the end they work it out and end up together.
There were so many gaps that needed to be filled. For instance, Rett gets kidnapped. He narrates that he’s bleeding real bad, cuts on his face and he is PISTOL WHIPPED. He's picked up from where the beating happened and the next thing I read is Rett working on a farm. How long after the kidnapping you ask? No clue. What happened to the people who kidnapped him? No clue.
I found myself saying frequently-
Intimacy Scenes: They were okay. I was tired of Finley’s, “maybe there is something wrong with me, I’m must not be a passionate person” and "I'm not usually like this" speeches. By the way, what was with the lame role play she suggested? The characters she proposed were pretty much who they were.
Overall: I did not enjoy this book. I had to force myself to finish it. I know, I know….why not just give up? I have a sick obsession of finishing things.
I really loved how Tess combined two gangs from different books in this story, you know Finley, Jude's little sis from 'Strangely Normal' who I fell in love with well that's the leading lady, and I couldn't be more happier that she tamed the wild beast! Rett he's an honest boy, "I smiled up at her. "You don't have to try so hard. Just watching you walk across the lawn with your herd of animals produced the desired effect." Finley I loved her so much in 'Strangely Normal' but we only got to see her for a little bit, but this being her story I fell in love with her so much more, she's so pure, and innocent almost, "she licked some sour cream off her finger and then pointed at me. "You're good. And you don't have to try so hard either. I've been thinking of nothing but wall slamming, headboard banging sex since I saw you emerge from behind the tractor." I mean sometimes a girl needs reassurance about her man wanting her, and Rett boy does he give it to her, "I placed my palm on the side of his face and kissed him as I pushed his jeans down. The moist tip of his erection brushed my abdomen, startling me out of my kiss. I looked down. It was even bigger and more impressive than I'd imagined, and I'd imagined a lot. "Just in case you were thinking that I didn't want you," he said quietly." I loved the intimate moments between Rett and Finley but I have to say my favorite part of the book is when Finley meets Rett's big bro Clutch, "jeez, did you all come from the same beautiful people planet? Looks like you were all formed in perfect human molds." I'm hoping Cole gets a story next.
Tess Oliver you has done it again. I LOVED this book. Rett is a ladies man and knows it. He is such a player but I liked seeing his softer side. Karma he knew it would come eventually. I dont think he ever expected it to be with a member of the King family. I really liked Finley even after all she's been through in life she seems to be so down to earth. I loved her bravery with the whole "sexy" attempts. This is such a steamy book! I recommend this book even if you havent read the series!
"He was chiseled and massive and unf*king believable."
"Barrett is every girl's type"
“Although, I must admit, when I look at you, it’s almost easy to believe that you came from some other part of the galaxy where the inhabitants are all impossibly perfect.”
RETT!!!! Hot, Viking God!!! I love huge blonde men with long hair!! OMG can it get any better!??! I was totally enamored with Fin! I loved her just as much as Rett...well close=) I am adding Tess Oliver to my list of favorite authors. She cracks me UP! Seriously she is hilarious! Her men are my type, every single one of them! MMA Fighters and tattoo artists, mmmmmmm yep my type for sure!! Read this whole series!!!
I loved this book. I loved the whole series. 4 hot guys and the ladies that capture their hearts. Rett and Finley are the ultimate couple. It is so much fun watching a ladies man lose his heart to the woman of his dreams. I especially like the way the characters from the other books were an intricate part of this book as well. Tess Oliver has done it again. A definite 5 star read.
Loved this book! Custom clutch is a great story. From book 1 to book 4 Tess Oliver made it interesting, funny and romantic. Well done! I would certainly recommend starting this series. Love Rett & Finley.
I’m new to this author, haven’t gotten to read her previous books yet but I have heard of them and thought to give it a chance. I wasn’t sorry.
It all starts with Rett, the hero of the story and how he’s trying to make something of himself, especially move out of his big brother’s house. Being the youngest of his siblings, his parents didn’t really care about him either way, so he did pretty much what he wanted.
He gets a job from his boss’s son to build a barn for the boss’s pretty eccentric younger daughter’s pet. And here’s where Rett meets the heroine, Finley. I liked her. She had issues she had to overcome and had managed, up to a certain point. Losing her baby sister and mother and with a rockstar father still touring and partying like he’s in his twenties, Finley didn’t really get to actually live. She survived, she breathed but she didn’t live. She was coddled by her older, overprotective brothers. She had a pig and a cow as pets and she loved animals and anything to do with them.
I liked the story, I liked how Finely didn’t shy away from saying what was on her mind,
“I’ve been thinking of nothing but wall slamming, headboard banging sex since I saw you emerge from behind that tractor.”
… And was willing to do something and not just be the spoiled rich brat everyone thought her to be.
“I want some passion. I want some emotion. Maybe just maybe I want some fucking heartbreak to remind me that I’m still alive.”
I also liked Rett, he treated her right and oh, he could be so giving *wink* If you know what I mean.
“(…) that smile is worth moving heaven and hell for.”
“I’m not confident about a lot of things, but kissing is high on my skills list. Or so I’ve been told.”
“For the first time since I could remember, I was in danger of losing my head over a girl.”
I wanted to shake them when they were being stubborn about calling the other but I exhaled relived when Rett came to his sense. Finley did too but let’s just say, she didn’t have good timing.
“I feel like I’ve found someone who needs me. And she’s fucking amazing. I need to take this risk. Finley is worth this risk.”
“Don’t let me go, Rett.” I said on a sigh. He tightened his hold on me. “Not a fucking chance.”
All in all, I liked it. Oh, I have to mention that, even though as I said, I haven’t read the others but I plan on catching up, I was never once confused about who was who. Tessa Oliver cleared it up, she was careful to let new readers know some things that have happened and to give short descriptions and facts about her characters. 3 1/2 – 4 stars.
If you loved Nix, adored Clutch and drooled over Dray (like I did!) get ready for Rett. As much as I loved Dray, Rett may now be my new favorite in the Custom Culture series.
Tess Oliver does it again, draws you in until you are completely hooked on every word.
Rett goes to work for Kingston Construction, quickly becoming friends with the owner's son Cole, due to their similar personalities, womanizing being the main trait.
While working on a job at Cole's home Rett meet's Cole's younger sister Finley. He's warned off by both older brothers but there's something about her that draws him like no other woman has. He want's to get to know her.
Finley is dealing with an anxiety disorder which has ruled her life for years. Yes she's a rock stars daughter so you would think she wants for nothing, and for the most part she doesn't, but when it comes to personal relationships, the fire, the passion, it's missing. Once she meets Rett, though aware of him basically being a manwhore, she wants to spend time with him.
As their friendship progresses and they see the possibility of an actual relationship Rett begins to feel inadequate, after all he's a simple construction worker, working for her family, how could he ever live up to what she could have, and he believes she deserves more than him.
What will happen between Rett and Finley? I don't do spoilers so you will just have to read the book to find out! I personally adore Rett and can't wait for more from Tess Oliver!
I had the opportunity to read the ARC for Rett and I am so glad that I was given that opportunity! I fell in love with the Custom Culture series with Freefall and Nix, which I think was my favorite so far, but Rett I think is competing for that spot! Rett has always been such an arrogant, womanizing young man, that is until now. Even though he does not feel adequate for Finley he is more that enough for her. He has a good heart beneath that exterior and a soft side that we have not been able to see in Rett so far. I loved the story of Rett and Finley I think they are perfect for each other. Thanks for keeping my addiction to the Custom Culture series going Tess Oliver! I cannot wait to read more in the series and more books by you. This book is pretty hot and naughty so not for the younger readers, definitely 18+ here.
I guess I read so many exceptionally good books that I was not able to stomach this chummy shit. The MCs were so perfect and beautiful(trust me) I got blind by so much perfection!
I think this might be my second favourite book in this series. My favourite is still Freefall. I always loved Rett. He seemed like such a genuinely nice guy. He never set out to hurt or use women. And especially after he saved Aimee from the fire, I knew he was a winner.
I never really though about it before, that women and sex were Rett's talent. Nix has tattoos, Clutch has cars, and Dray has fighting. Rett has women and sex. But it made sense. It suited him. This was exactly how I always imagined Rett's more personal side to be like, even though we never saw it before. Rett was around a little less than the other men and I feel like we knew the least about him going into his book. But I always knew he was yummy and I was really excited about this book.
Although I never imagined Rett to look like this cover image before it was revealed. I've gotten used to it now, but I didn't know he had long hair. The way everyone was going on about him I imagine him prettier. He is definitely good looking, but way more rugged than pretty. And he looks a lot like his brother, which of course makes sense.
I already loved Finley from Strangely Normal, and she was great in this too. I enjoyed seeing more of her, and Some Pig. Some Pig is awesome. Minus the sexual appetite, Finley really is like a Disney princess. She sounds so amazing, like a person I wish I could be friends with. And she and Rett go so well together. When I first heard that Finley was going to be back as Rett's love interest, I was so excited. I could already imagine the chemistry they were going to have. And of course it turned out to be so much hotter than the other books, with some semi-explicit sex. As I said above, this suits Rett and should have been expected. But I hadn't been expecting it, since the first two books were pretty moderate, and I don't even remember there being any sex in Dray.
But the meaning of all this is that Rett and Finley are perfectly balanced together. Finley can direct Rett's previously unchecked passion, and Rett can ignite Finley previously non-existent passion. I think Rett may be my favourite of the lead males in this series now, even if I preferred Freefall over all because it had an engrossing story. I already miss Rett.
Is this series over? There are no more males I can think of to be featured. None that are part of the same close knit group anyway. Although I would read a book about Cole, and possibly Taylor's brother, Jason. He needs a better girlfriend.
I would like to thank the authors for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was gifted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 4th book in Tess Oliver's Custom Culture Series. While each book is technically a standalone each book builds on previous characters. So my recommendation is to read them in order.
Finley King has emotional problems. For almost two years she refused to step foot outside of her house. Panic attacks and OCD tendencies were a constant in her life. Now she is finally on the mend. Slow and Steady is her motto. She is in therapy and taking medications that help keep everything at an even keel for her. But she is concerned that the medications are causing her to miss out of the normal feelings of life. Until Barrett "Rett" Mason walks into her life.
Rett hasn't had the easiest life. He's made some bad decisions that have affected his relationships with other family members. As the youngest of five children he grew up with no fear of life or what it threw at him. He is finally at a good place with a steady job. Rett even becomes good friends with his boss Cole not knowing that he was about to meet the one woman who he couldn't walk away from.
Finley decides from the moment she sees Rett that he's the one for her. The one who can help her feel and live again. Rett thinks she's an angel but is warned off more than once by Fin's brothers that he's not good enough for her.
It's amazing what happens when a girl who has lived by the rules most of her life decides she's ready to walk that tight rope for what she wants, and a boy finally realizes that maybe there is one girl out there worth fighting for.
I was in love with Rett before I even read this book. He was such a great secondary / support character in both Clutch and Drey that I was really excited when I found out he was getting his own book. You can imagine my surprise when I started to read Rett and realized that Finley King from the book Strangely Normal (which I absolutely loved!)was Rett's love interest. I really liked how Tess joined these characters and their families together so seamlessly. One can only hope that now we get a book with Cole's story (hint hint)!
I honestly can't wait to see what Tess Oliver comes up with next!
I was so happy to receive a complimentary advance copy of this book directly from the author. (Thank you, Tess!) So... Out of all the Custom Culture guys I would have to say I loved Barett (asides from Dray) the most so obviously I was looking forward to learning his story of finding love.
I have mix feelings about this book, I was informed from a fellow blogger after chatting with her about the book because she's a fan of the series too that I should read Tess' book Strangely Normal to really appreciate this book. (which I plan to do later on, after my full on TBR list is done) I rated this book a 4 cupcake icon, but truly I would have rated it 3.5 cupcakes. I just felt that it was lacking something? I guess. I couldn't really grasp the back story behind Finley's anxiety problem or her past. It was discussed in this book but not so much. I was constantly struggling with what Finley's true character was... she was shy? but then seemed so forward and outgoing? I did really enjoy the fact that she was an animal lover/whisperer! :)
Even though, I wasn't too keen on Finley's character you do come to know Rett, the hero. In the past books we learn Rett has a irresponsible and careless and boy-oh-boy playboy personality. With the face any girl would kneel down to. He is known amongst his guy friends as the "legend" with the ladies. Scotlyn and Taylor often refer to him as a "lost puppy". But we learn in Dray's story that Rett has finally had enough of that lifestyle and is willing throw all his one night stands to find Ms. Perfect. Little does he find, his Ms. Perfect isn't so perfect. ;-) But no one is any way.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading the book, it was a very quick read. Full of angst, a little action,a lotta tears, a handful of protective brothers and a whole lotta farm animals! :) i LOVED Some Pig! ;) So, I highly recommend this book to you all. I would just recommend you read Strangely Normal first to really appreciate this story! :)
3 star reviews are sort of hard to write so I'm just going to outline the Good and the Bad.
The Good Rett Mason is a sexy beast. 6 + feet of head-turning handsomeness and bedroom skills galore. There were plenty of hot sexy times to be had in this book.
Rett finds trouble wherever he goes, so there's no way he's dull or boring.
Finley's mental problems and family history were unusual for a romance heroine, so it was a nice change of pace.
Since it's a series, it was nice to see the characters from the previous books.
The Bad The Conflict: The catalyst for the conflict was pretty inspired, but the misunderstanding and insecurities were not believable in the least. And the willingness of both M/C's to give up after...nothing... made me lose that lovin' feeling. After that, I just couldn't feel like they loved each other.
Rett's situation: I don't need my heroes to be bajillionaires, but Rett is still camping out with Jimmy, driving Jimmy's beat up truck and not too secure job-wise. I don't care how hot you are, Rett, get your shit together. I guess I don't love that we end a romance novel
Heroine: No offense to Finley, but am I the only one who was disappointed that the heroine wasn't the next-door-neighbor-in-a-bad-marriage? I was POSITIVE that with all of Rett's heroism toward her that she'd be the one. It sort of felt like a bait-and-switch to me.
So to sum up: It was entertaining and I liked it. It's not, however, the greatest love story ever told. Not even close.
Ying and Yang. Balance and bringing out the best in each other. Soothing those old insecurities and making each other feel beautiful. This is the story of Rett and Finley. Rett is Clutch’s little brother. He has always had a hard time, being the youngest of five brothers, struggling to find his place in the world. Finley you first meet in the Tess Oliver book Strangely Normal. I was ECSTATIC to find out she was Rett’s love interest. Her story is so sweet and unique and to get more of her, it was amazing. This is by FAR the sexiest book in the Custom Culture series, which doesn’t really surprise me considering we are talking about Rett the playboy. But with the sexy time, comes tons of heart and realism. Finley struggles with relationships and everyday problems. She has come a long way, however, some things send her spiraling into her little cocoon of self-preservation. Rett is the only one in her life that seems to be able to penetrate that, and because of this, they are simply meant to be.
Rett is so sweet with Finley. And just like Scotlyn and Taylor always warned him, when the right one came along, he would fall head over heels, which he did. I absolutely love this series and love Rett and Finley together. Their chemistry was off the charts, but their romance was sweet and endearing. 5 SMOOCH-A-ROONIES ~Nicole Red Cheeks Reads
Tess Oliver is a genius. The combining of characters from two of her recent books is awesome. As soon as I started reading this story I could remember those characters from a previous story. I feel in love these the first time but now I think they are so much more awesome. Two lost souls finding one another and bring happiness in each others life is so incredible. Rett is your number one player guy who loves them and leave him. He is a pretty boy who knows his way around the girls. Finley is your fragile rock star's daughter that isn't as fragile as you think. Put these two together and the magic happens. Is it easy for these two? The poor pretty boy and the rich rock star's daughter have to overcome some major obstacles to make things work. I can't tell you if they do but to find out, you must read all to Freefall series and Strangely Normal by Tess Oliver. You will be happy you did.
*** not a standalone*** This is 4 in the Custom Culture series. I will place a 5 but guaranteed it is not a high enough rating. Amazingly written with superb elements. What a magnificent twist- take the continuation of one series and combine with the storyline/characters from a standalone. Total book success is the end result :) A storyline that is so much fun and entertaining. Definitely a can't put down read. Twist/turns- ups/downs- suspense/romance- humor/on the edge of seat moments :it's all in this one. Oh for at the HOTT scenes. The intertwining and joining of characters is so smooth. Each one provides such a vital and pleasurable support for this joined adventure. A wonderful conclusion to a series that is beyond words. A great finale for the love and relationships developed for each couple. A HAPPY EVER AFTER FOR EVERYONE!!!! AndreaH
This is the first book of Tess' that I've read, and it was very enjoyable. Rett is hot and a down to earth, good guy. He's realistic and knows his place in the world. He is also a bit of a player. What hot guy isn't? He meets Finley, his friends little sister, and is immediately drawn to her. But not only is she his friends sister - a friend who happens to be his boss - she's the daughter of a famous rock star. She's nothing like he's used to, and everything he never knew he wanted. There are some steamy scenes, and a few twists and turns to keep the book fast paced. I don't feel like I've missed anything by not reading the first 3 books, but I want to read them to get to know the full cast of characters. If the first books are like Rett, I believe I'll enjoy them.
I was lucky enough to recieve a ARC of this book. Tess, didn't ask me to review it, or for anything in return for the copy. I loved this book, I went into it without reading Strangely Normal and I wasn't lost. I did however buy it in the middle of reading this one so I could find out more about the characters. Finley, was perfect for Rett being just enough to be his damsel in distress but strong enough to stand uo for herself and not be wishy washy. I don't want to give any spoilers, or summarize the story but it is a good fast read and I highly recommend it
I just hope this isn't the last book in the series, I love these guys and girls. It's a action pack fun filled romantic series.
The link between Rett and Strangely Normal was fab, you don't need to read Strangely Normal first but I'm glad I did. I think the Custom Culture gang and the King family could make a very happy group of friends & family together. Hopefully Cole's story is next he really needs a HEA.
I was fortunate enought to receive an ARC of Rett. Loved the pairing of Finley and Rett. You can enjoy if you had not read Strangly Normal, but I would recommend reading it first and I think you will enjoy the novel even more!
Rett is tired of being the "pretty" boy but he doesn't hesitate to take advantage of the benefits of his looks. Finley is a rock stars daughter who has kept herself housebound from panic attacks. When they see each other it's an instant attraction. For someone who stays out of the public eye and not very sociable she sure didn't hesitate to put the moves on Rett. He wouldn't take much to get Rett since he pretty much sleeps with anyone interested. Finley's brothers don't want her with Rett and try and stop her from seeing him. This book was okay but I didn't really feel any chemistry between them. Also for this whole series when the book ends it kind of leaves you hanging like you missed something. I didn't get the whole kidnapping thing. Nothing was done or even talked about the whole incident.
I’ve got to admit I liked this book more than the last one. Rhett works for Kingston Construction company and becomes friends with Cole. When it comes to women, Rhett and Cole have a lot in common. Cole asks Rhett to help build a barn at his house for Lilly Belle, a cow that his sister rescued. On the property, Rhett meets Finley when Some Pig comes over and grunts at his ham sandwich. Rhett and Finley hit it off, even if she is the daughter of a famous band member. Rhett and Finley are both warned off of one another by her brothers. That doesn’t stop them though and they start a relationship. When Finley’s dad is accused of murder, Finley unknowingly shuts Rhett out. This hurts Rhett when he thinks she doesn’t need him. This is just miscommunication and they make their way back to each other after her dad is found innocent. HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Rett Mason, the younger brother of Jimmy "Clutch" Mason, gets his own book.
Rett meets Finley King, the daughter of a mega-rich rock star, but boy, does she have problems. She has suffered from major depression, tried to take her own life, and was agoraphobic.
Rett can understand her hangups because he has quite a few of his own. He had to overcome an addiction to pills after an Alaskan fishing gig in the Bering Sea. Plus he had a difficult childhood.
While I thought this was an ok read, I would have enjoyed it more had the characters been more well developed. I also felt the ending was rushed with the resolution of their misunderstanding taking place with no conversation to clear the air.
This series was quite good!! I enjoyed the characters and their stories. I also Loved the intertwining of each of these best friends... each story is different to each other! Great read look forward to reading more from this author !!