Calvin

Almstead Island: Newcomer's Club #2

by Kerry Kilpatrick

What could go right with a Daddy who doesn’t know how to be one, and a boy who’s scared to let him try?

Calvin
Between my tech firm and family’s endowment fund, there is no shortage of people trying to get close. Offering a trespasser a job to run interference made no sense, but neither did my instant attraction to sweet, submissive Micah. I never expected to fall in love with a man, let alone want to be the Daddy that takes on all his burdens.

Micah
Life had never been easy, and the only option I had left was to sell myself. The intimidating and wildly sexy Calvin Rutledge offered me a lifeline out of the garden shed and off the streets. In exchange for room, board, and a chance at a better future, I would be his companion. I never expected to fall in love with my boss, or crave the care that came with being his boy.

This is Book Two of the Almstead Newcomer's Club. The series is interconnecting, but each story can be read as a standalone. This novel involves a Daddy/boy dynamic, but no age play. Please know that there are instances of abuse in this story. You can find more information in the forward matter. There is a HEA for this couple and no cliffhanger, but some character redemptions will take longer than others.

Cover coming soon and release date may be moved up.

Genres: Romance, M M Romance, Contemporary, LGBT, Forced Proximity, Gay, Contemporary Romance

302 pages, Paperback

Published January 28, 2025

Reviews

[Anna]

DNF @ 49%

Please don't ever write the word 'peen' in a romance book.

I tried to push through this but ultimately decided to keep my dignity and read something better.

Had to close my kindle and take a deep breath because I could feel my soul shriveling up and dying.

This is a daddy/boy romance where this hot shot rich guy (i forgot his name) finds a homeless guy in his shed and forces him to move in.

The rich guy was too pushy, too forceful, was literally forcing the kid to stay at his house.

I enjoyed the homeless part at the beginning but once again, when the MCs get together, I just tune tf out.🙂‍↔️

"My cock--" Daddy cut me off before I could finish. "No, baby. You don't have a cock. You have a little peen."

"The smaller the berry the sweeter the fruit. I bet that's true with your cock."

When he snuggled closer, the Daddy in me purred.

GOODBYE

[Lola]

DNF at 61%

I don't need to do this to myself - I don't have to finish. I really wanted some possessive daddy kink atm and I guess this had that but the execution was really wild to me, and not in a fun way.

I was of the mind that I liked insta connection (lust, love, fated mates, whatever) but the more I read it, the more I think I might've been wrong. It's possible it only works for me in specific circumstances, and while I definitely understand insta lust/attraction, it turns out it might be more of a stretch for me to accept a man simply stating "you're mine" like 3 min into their first interaction. And that's what happened here. This is not PNR, there's no fated mates, and the MCs hadn't even spoken to each other before the Daddy MC thinks: "this boy is mine so now he lives in my house and we're dating and I'm his Daddy (despite having no prior experience with it) and oh yea also I was straight until this moment". Guess the line for me was somewhere in there. I love possessiveness but I guess I'd like some buildup.

The speed and ease with which the older MC not only accepted but initiated becoming a Daddy and having sex and a relationship with a man was astounding - nary a pause for thought. Fine. I actually find it nice sometimes when a guy just kind of goes "huh" and moves on when he suddenly discovers he's not straight. But this was excessive.

I am the kind of girl who actually likes "Cinderella" type Daddy stories where a rich, dominating, asshole, older MC swoops in and uses his wealth to fix all of his baby's problems while also engaging in a BDSM relationship. I know it's problematic but there it is. But I was bored with this one and not even the sugaring could make up for it.

And maybe I could have lived with the boredom and the wtf-ery and the lack of build up of any kind, but what I could no longer live through was the specific degradation kink. I don't mind degradation so long as the sub/recipient MC really enjoys it. I find it refreshing to occasionally read about an MC with a completely average or even small dick - I don't need every man to have an 8+inch cock. And I like stories and smut that is affirming for MCs with body issues. But please, I beg, do not force me to read the word "peen".

The younger MC had a small dick and it was a source of embarrassment for him. I was already kind of side-eyeing the decision to use (unnegotiated) degradation as a means for him to find acceptance and feel sexy, but like, ok, sure. But then the older MC decided to call his dick his "little peen". I was so taken aback. And it was, unfortunately, not a one time thing.

The book was already mediocre and I simply cannot make my eyes look at that word anymore so I am done. This was my first (and probably last) by this author.

[Carly (carly_reads_queer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kilpatrick does it AGAIN. In the second book of the Almstead Island series we get everything that was perfection in book one and then some.

Calvin delivers:

boss/employee
homeless/rich
Daddy/boy
Age gap
Size difference (and I don’t just mean height)
Hurt/comfort
Found family
And perfect scorching chemistry riddled spice

This is by far my favorite series of Kerry’s (and that’s saying something), but there’s magic on Almstead Island. Lighting in a bottle was captured from the moment we met Beckett in book one and hasn’t dimmed.

The beautiful landscape, the dynamic, layered, vibrant, characters, all just leave you desperate for the next book the second you reach the end.

I loved Calvin and Micah. They were believable, lovable, interesting, and nuanced from the get go. Their romance was sweet, sexy, and filled with so much emotion and care. I love a good rich/poor hurt/comfort and this is top tier.

I’m excited for Emil’s book and cannot wait to circle back to more of Beckett’s family. Everyone on Almstead Island deserves love and I’m HERE FOR IT.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Calvin finds Micah sleeping in his shed. He takes him in, immediately deciding he wants to keep him and be his Daddy. Micah has only known foster care and is overwhelmed by Cal's money, caretaking and possessiveness, triggering Micah's submissiveness and lust. I loved this book with its Daddy/ Boy theme, the size difference and Calvin's possessiveness, all being such a delightful pleasure. Kerry wrote a sweet, intimate book sensitively highlighting the perils of foster care. I honestly can't express how much I enjoyed this book and the feelings its stirred, the enjoyment of revisiting Will and Beckett.

[Showarst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Calvin is book 2 in the Newcomers Club series. We met Calvin and Micah briefly in book 1 and I was so excited to read their story. It did not disappoint. Micah has had a hard life being bounced from foster home to home. His paperwork has been lost which resulted in him being unable to stay in college or find a job. He starts to hole up in Calvin’s shed until he is eventually found. I absolutely loved how possessive Calvin was immediately upon meeting Micah. He has always thought he was straight but when he meets Micah it just feels right. Then he decides to become Micah’s Daddy. I just loved everything about these two. Though the tracker issue was slightly annoying. I could not put this one down and am very excited to see that the next book is about Anders (who we met in a different series). I am loving this series.

I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review

[Betty Loves Books Galore · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a boss x employee to more romance, featuring Calvin Rutledge and Micah Morgan, and is book two in the Almstead Island: Newcomer’s Club series.

Calvin hires a desperate stranger to run interference, only to find himself falling for sweet, submissive Micah and embracing feelings, and a role, he never expected.

This is a sweet, emotional, funny daddy / boy romance about instant connection, rescue, trust and healing. I loved how Calvin has his hi awakening and then immediately claims Micah as his boy, it was so entertaining to watch it all play out.

Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM romance
Age gap (35/23)
Boss x Employee
Rich x Poor
Power imbalance
Grumpy x Shy
Hurt / Comfort
Homelessness
Caretaker
Obsessed
MC has dimples
MC loves learning
Forced proximity
Bi awakening
Spicy times
Daddy / boy
C*ck cage
C*ck warming
Calls him little one
Family drama
HEA

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

it’s bad enough that my brain automatically mixes up kerry & anna sparrows books[i’m not even entirely sure why lol] but no she didn’t shout out chance's choice in the epilogue 😂

anyway, i enjoyed this one. the ending felt a smidge fast for everything we had read up to that point & calvin should have let jamie whoop kyle’s behind but i guess violence is never the answer? i also love the little callbacks to bear & owen like hello they should all be friends lol.

i. cannot. wait. for. anders. story.

[Bkwrm24 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Micah and Calvin ❤️

3 Stars ⭐️

✅ Hurt/Comfort
✅ Daddy/Boy

As much as this pains me to say because I love this author, Calvin was too much....ugh, he came off as a pompous a hole most of the time so it made the story less enjoyable for me. Micah was a love ❤️. I enjoyed his characters so much and his story was very emotional. All in all this was great, I just wished Cal was a little less....upity. Anyway, even with that, the story was great and enjoyable. It had so much heart.

* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *

[Kel Morse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid read! I really enjoyed this book.
Calvin was such a natural when it came to being a Daddy, and his relationship with Micah was heartwarming. Micah was an absolute doll—his sweetness and vulnerability made him incredibly endearing. I loved how the story balanced steamy moments with tender, emotional connections. It wasn’t just about the chemistry between the characters; there was a lot of heart, too. Overall, it was a perfect blend of steamy and sweet, and I couldn’t put it down

[Julie Underhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Calvin by Kerry Kilpatrick is the second book in her Almstead Island: Newcomers Club series. It is the love story of a young man who has hit rock bottom through no fault of his own and the millionaire who saves him. Micah Morgan has had a very rough life. His loving mother died when he was just 6 and he was in and out of foster and group homes when his much older brother, Kyle, refused to do what was needed to keep him with him. After he aged out he was able to go to college but a series disasters which he didn’t cause left him homeless and unable to get a steady job. He went to Almstead Island which was across from where he was trying to live and get day jobs and found a garden shed that could provide shelter for him. He was able to stay there for 3 months without being detected as he left the island on the ferry each day with his bike and ragged backpack looking for any work he could find. Then one day his luck ran out and he was discovered by the gardener who called the owner and the police, just as he decided the only way he could earn money was to sell himself. The owner was Calvin Rutledge, a millionaire and the CEO of his family’s tech investment firm and foundations. His father had always told him to trust his instincts and they told him to tell Micah he had a job for him. He took him into his house and realized how bad off he was, skin and bones and could barely walk so he fed him, told him to take a shower a sleep in the bed in his guestroom. Micah had never had anyone care so much for him nor had he had such luxuries. Cal offered him a job accompanying him to his many charity engagements as a way to keep people that wanted something away from him. Since this was a chance for him to leave the life he was living and make some money in case something happened Micah decided to take it. The next day they went clothes shopping and when someone tried to act like his Daddy, Cal found that infuriating as well intriguing and something he might want to be to Micah. When they went to dinner Micah told him about his parents being killed and going into foster care. He learned to make himself invisible so his father and brother and those in the system wouldn’t hurt him and how to blend in and disappear. He also worried that he would have nothing if Cal kicked him out so Cal got a lawyer and drew up a contract that gave him protection and means to make a fresh start. As time continued Cal, who wanted to be called Daddy, and Micah were getting to know each other and feelings were growing between them. Cal learned that Micah was smart, honest, and submissive. He introduced him to Nix, his house manager, and they made friends with the police officer, Beckett and his partner, Will, who also helped Cal become the Daddy Micah needed. They attended fund raisers and while Micah didn’t feel comfortable, he helped Cal deal with some unwanted people coming up to him. Cal also found something that Micah had lost that brought them even closer. They became intimate with some hot love scenes as their relationship grew. Yet there were still trust issues between them with Micah still worried that Cal was going to kick him out and Cal just as worried that Micah may leave. It all came to a head when Kyle came back into the picture, and Jamie, Cal’s best friend did something that caused Micah to lose faith in him. But they both knew they needed each other and when everything came out they vowed to make it work since they loved each other. This is one of the most hurt/comfort books I have ever read and I really enjoyed it. I don’t know how Micah was surviving yet still had some optimism that things could change for him. He was so scared when Cal found him but he thought that Micah could be someone special, even before he knew him. Cal was confident in being his Daddy, even though he hadn’t been one before, and Micah just wanted to please him and enjoyed his attention. There were some very sweet moments as well as some tense ones. Their friends were helpful when things were falling apart and helped them see that they needed to be truthful and trust each other. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like hurt/comfort stories with a rich man and very poor one who come together and make a life filled with love.

[RBR]

‘Calvin’ is a sweet love story with two unlikely main characters who appear to be totally opposite at first glance, but grow to love each other and develop a Daddy/boy relationship. There’s no age play but among the tropes there is instant attraction between a wealthy older man and a young homeless man. There’s also grumpy/sunshine and sexual discovery as the ostensibly straight, older bachelor is immediately attracted to the twenty-three-year-old gay man who is currently living in his shed. Kerry Kilpatrick took on a task to make this hodgepodge of tropes believable and, on the whole, it worked. I did have moments of incredulity, I must admit, but I also found moments of tenderness, kindness, caring, and concern that made the scenes unfold beautifully.

Micah was an easy-to-love character. Young, with a streak of independence and a desire to get away from his past. Mostly raised in foster child group homes, he’s at his wits end because he never received his birth certificate and social security card from the children’s service office when he came of age, and he can’t get work without that proof. He was in college and had to drop out and all he has in the world is his backpack with a few precious items and his trusty bike that he rides to the ferry crossing every morning to look for work near the lumberyard. One morning he's caught in the shed, and when Calvin, the homeowner, meets him, Micah’s future is sealed—not by being jailed, but by being invited to live with the older man as his companion. And thus, the story begins.

Calvin’s character was difficult to love. He was fairly egotistical, though the author tried to soften his edges. After all, a man who is a head of a tech company and born to wealth, highly educated, and with a stern demeanor isn’t a pleasant persona, and though he had some warm and fuzzy moments with Micah, he was still the “in charge” partner. Hence, after Calvin investigates his need to be in control of Micah’s day and learns a little about the dynamic, they enter a Daddy/boy relationship.

What I liked most about the story were the times the couple was at home and relaxed, doing mundane activities or playing cards or reading. I also liked the fact that they didn’t jump right into sex, allowing time for Micah to get to know Calvin and for Calvin to come to terms with his same-sex attraction. I also enjoyed the brief scenes with Will and Beckett from book one, ‘Will’. What I didn’t care for was the trauma-drama between Calvin and his long-lost brother, and Micah’s need to sneak around behind Calvin’s back to resolve issues with the brother. The whole relationship with his brother was horrid from the beginning, but the ending of that relationship was too formulaic. I also would have preferred the story to be shorter. There were plenty of repetitive thoughts and actions and at a few points the story lagged. About one third less in total words/pages would have kept the pace faster and greatly improved my interest.

All in all, the story was an interesting look into a few of the less common tropes with a cast of appealing characters and some nail-biting scenarios. And, although a few characters from book one had a minor role here, this story can easily be read as a standalone.


DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book has been provided by the author via GRRT for the purpose of a review.

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Calvin is a sweet love story with two unlikely main characters who appear to be totally opposite at first glance, but grow to love each other and develop a Daddy/boy relationship. There’s no age play but among the tropes there is instant attraction between a wealthy older man and a young homeless man. There’s also grumpy/sunshine and sexual discovery as the ostensibly straight, older bachelor is immediately attracted to the twenty-three-year-old gay man who is currently living in his shed. Kerry Kilpatrick took on a task to make this hodgepodge of tropes believable and, on the whole, it worked. I did have moments of incredulity, I must admit, but I also found moments of tenderness, kindness, caring, and concern that made the scenes unfold beautifully.

Micah was an easy-to-love character. Young, with a streak of independence and a desire to get away from his past. Mostly raised in foster child group homes, he’s at wits end because he never received his birth certificate and social security card from the children’s service office when he came of age, and he can’t get work without that proof. He was in college and had to drop out and all he has in the world is his backpack with a few precious items and his trusty bike that he rides to the ferry crossing every morning to look for work near the lumberyard. One morning he's caught in the shed, and when Calvin, the homeowner, meets him, Micah’s future is sealed—not by being jailed, but by being invited to live with the older man as his companion. And thus, their story begins.

Calvin’s character was difficult to love. He was fairly egotistical, though the author tried to soften his edges. After all, a man who is a head of a tech company and born to wealth, highly educated, and with a stern demeanor isn’t a pleasant persona, and though he had some warm and fuzzy moments with Micah, he was still the “in charge” partner. Hence, after Calvin investigated his need to be in control of Micah’s day and learned a little about the dynamic, they entered a Daddy/boy relationship.

What I liked most about the story were the times the couple was at home and relaxed, doing mundane activities or playing cards or reading. I also liked the fact that they didn’t jump right into sex, allowing time for Micah to get to know Calvin and for Calvin to come to terms with his same-sex attraction. I also enjoyed the brief scenes with Will and Beckett from book one, Will. What I didn’t care for was the trauma-drama between Calvin and his long lost brother, and Micah’s need to sneak around behind Calvin’s back to resolve issues with the brother. The whole relationship with his brother was horrid from the beginning, but the ending of that relationship was too formulaic with the alcohol abuse and sleazy friend. I also would have preferred the story to be shorter. There were plenty of repetitive thoughts and actions and at a few points the story lagged. About 1/3 less in total words/pages would have kept the pace faster and greatly improved my interest.

All in all, the story was an interesting look into a few of the less common tropes with a cast of appealing characters and some nail-biting scenarios. And, although a few characters from book one had a minor role here, this story can easily be read as a standalone.

[Bluemoonchild · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kerry Kilpatrick could write an installation manual and I would read it. Between the world building and the incredibly well-developed characters, every single book she has published has been pure magic for me. And Calvin - the 2nd book in the Almstead Island: Newcomer's Club series - is no exception.

We first met Calvin and Micah in book 1 (Will), when Micah was found trespassing on Calvin's property and sleeping in his shed. This book opens right before that, with Micah at the end of his rope and hitting rock bottom. While this story is primarily low-angst, Micah's history and his journey from foster care to homelessness is anything but, so it is understandable that he is wary of Calvin's offer of a place to stay and a job as his assistant. Fight or flight is his default mode, and he's constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop. For his part, Calvin is drawn to Micah instantly, with a possessive intensity that borders on (the best kind of) obsession. Presumably straight, he has no idea where these feelings came from or why, but he does know that Micah is meant to be his and that's all that matters. The rest is just details.

This book is absolutely perfect - it's emotional and tender, with a story so compelling that you'll be hard-pressed to put it down. Micah grabs on to your heart and doesn't let go, and Calvin is the perfect (if unexpected) Daddy for him. Their dynamic develops quickly but beautifully, and their journey from strangers to partners is written with genuine care. Anyone who has read her other books will be as delighted as I was to find the nods to past and future books, and even a book by another author!

But at it's core, this is a book about healing, learning to trust, and the kind of love that's so strong it can rebuild you. The writing is sharp, the emotions are real, and the love story is inevitable. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.

[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]

[Amanda Winter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Calvin is the second book in the Almstead Island: Newcomer's Club series, and while it can be enjoyed as a standalone, fans of the series will appreciate its seamless continuation of Kilpatrick’s engaging storytelling. This book follows Micah Morgan and Calvin Rutledge—two men from vastly different worlds who find unexpected solace in each other.

Micah’s life has been a relentless series of hardships since losing his mother. Shuffled through the foster system and later relying on a scholarship for school, he suddenly finds himself homeless when bureaucracy once again fails him. With no ID, no job, and no resources, he’s left trying to survive, taking on odd jobs and, ultimately, squatting in a garden shed. It’s there that he meets Calvin, the property's owner, in a twist of fate that changes his life forever.

Calvin is a millionaire and the CEO of his family's tech company. He’s socially awkward, a bit brusque, and not particularly adept at emotional connections—but something about Micah draws him in. Protective instincts he didn’t even know he had flare to life, compelling him to help. In an impulsive move, he offers Micah a job and a place to stay. Realizing he needs a way to justify his sudden generosity, he devises a plan—Micah will be his shield at social events, a convenient excuse to keep unwanted attention at bay.

Despite their contrasting backgrounds, Micah and Calvin complement each other beautifully. Micah, despite his struggles, remains kind, thoughtful, and grounded, while Calvin, though controlling and distant with others, shows surprising warmth and tenderness toward Micah. Their dynamic is a perfect balance—Micah softens Calvin’s edges, while Calvin provides the stability Micah has never had.

I loved how well this book was written. The pacing was perfect, the emotional depth was compelling, and the romance unfolded in a way that felt both organic and deeply satisfying. After loving book one, my expectations were high, but Calvin exceeded them effortlessly. I’m already eager for the next installment in this series! If you enjoy heartfelt romances with endearing characters, an emotional slow-burn, and a touch of found family, this one is a must-read.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so in love with this author’s books. I can identify with her characters so easily, I would be happy to have them as friends, no matter what book of hers I read. The Almstead Island series pulls me in immediately and doesn’t let me go until the final page. These tales of boys with emotional abuse in their pasts finding their perfect Daddies just flow, almost like watching a movie in my head.
When Micah is discovered living in a garden shed on an estate on Almstead Island, he fears he will be sent to jail. Instead, Calvin, the owner, takes him into his house and under his wing, feeling this unusual need to protect this young man. Micah may look frail but he is not. He is aware of his circumstances and finds it hard to trust this man, but he also finds he wants to do what Calvin tells him to, relinquishing his fears the more he learns about Calvin. Calvin has always considered himself to be straight, but something about Micah draws Calvin to him, wanting things he has never wanted with a man before. The more they get to know each other, the stronger their relationship grows into a loose Daddy/boy one. Calvin doesn’t know much about the dynamic, but researches as much as he can as the two find their way into what works for them. Micah doesn’t really trust that this will be a long term relationship, so keeps parts of himself back, and when his past intrudes, Micah has some choices to make which could cost him his relationship with Calvin. One thing both learn is that communication and honesty are key.
The characters of Will and Beckett from book 1 play a small role in this book, and it is good to see them again and how they are doing. While Micah and Calvin are the main focus, we also meet Emil, one of the main characters of book 3. Unfortunately, that one isn’t scheduled to be out until next January😕. I don’t want to wait that long for the next installment and to catch up a bit with Calvin and Micah, too, but will just have to wait.
If you like really relatable, realistic characters with strong relationships, protective Daddies who take care of their boys, and boys with emotional baggage finding the Daddy that fits them, then I recommend this series. I don’t think you will be disappointed.

[Alexandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

🎧 Audiobook review 🎧⚡ Spoilers and profanities might lie ahead —I usually like to talk shit about everything that goes down in these books

I am “peenfully” confused about this book after finishing it… pun intended, obviously. WTF is with the term peen being used so much? Maybe it’s just me (English is not my native language), but that word made me squirm every single time — and not in a fun way. What was the point? A term of dick endearment? To infantilize him? To highlight the daddy-boy dynamic? I honestly have no idea.

Ok, so he had a small dick. Cool. But why do we have to point it out every. single. time? Or maybe it’s not about pointing it out, but that’s where my brain immediately went. I literally do not care about the small size — I’m equally annoyed every time authors try to make it epic fantasy-size (11 inches, seriously??? GTFO with that giant snake).

As for the relationship… meh. Calvin seemed aloof, Micah was secretive to the point of disaster — literally, he goes behind Calvin’s back to fund his lowlife POS brother. If I were Calvin, trust would be on life support.

And then there’s Jamie (Calvin’s friend/security officer). I hated him for being so annoying about Micah’s untrustworthiness and planting a tracker in his backpack — but, ugh, he was kinda right. They did find him and rescue him. But Micah? He freaks out on Calvin and storms off like a whiny toddler. I mean… why not go to the one person with money, lawyers, and literally all the resources to help? Nope, let’s just be stupid and get scammed repeatedly. Genius.

The love story? Cute-ish, I guess. Didn’t really hit because of all the secrets, lies, and guard-up energy. Surface-level vibes all the way.

Audiobook is single narrator, which betrayed me in the best/worst way: John Solo’s Micah voice — sweet, gentle, scared… and the way he said “daaadddyy” in my ear? ILLEGAL. I want that as my ringtone.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Almstead Island: Newcomer's Club series. It is able to be enjoyed as a standalone read. This is the story of Micah Morgan and Calvin Rutledge. Micah has had his legs knocked out from underneath him since the day his mom died. Going in and out of care, he was on a scholarship for school when bureaucracy once again upend his world. Falling through the cracks in a system that was supposed to protect and help him, Micah has once again lost everything. Unable to work without his ID and papers, he is homeless and trying to pick up day jobs to earn money for food. Found squatting in a garden shed, he meets the property's owner. And Micah's life is changed forever. Calvin is a millionaire and CEO of his family's tech company. Calvin immediately senses something from Micah. Unable to help himself, he wants to protect him and help him. So Calvin offers him a job and a place to stay. On the way to his family home, he is scrambling to come up with a job that he can give to Micah. A reminder about another social commitment that he has, the perfect job springs to mind. He will use Micah as a shield at social gatherings to keep the unwanted away. In spite of his past history, Micah is sweet and kind. He is down to earth and thoughtful. Calvin can be abrupt, socially awkward and controlling. But with Micah he is kind and sweet. The two balance each other out. This is their story. I really enjoyed this book. As I adored book one in this series, the yardstick was set pretty high. Yet this book managed to surpass my expectations without really trying. The book is very well written and easy to read. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.

I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kenz Rosewood · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was both beautiful, heart breaking and heart warming!

Cal has never been attracted to a man before, till he lays eyes on Micah hiding out sleeping in his shed. All he wants to do is take care of Micah, even if the people around him think it's insane. After a run in with a random guy at the store asking Micah if he needs a daddy Cal does the only rational thing...he tells Micah he's his daddy and doesn't take no for an answer (not in a creepy way haha like in a hot "I'm your daddy" way)

Micah has been living in the foster system off and on, in group homes, and small amounts with his abusive alcoholic brother since his parents died. Most recently he's been sleeping in Cals shed to stay safe till Nix Cals house manager finds him. Micah does all he can to try and deter Cal from helping cause he feels indebted to him, but his daddy refuses to take no for an answer.

The love that Cal has for Micah to help him through his issues with his self image and self worth is beautiful, he works on having him speak in a positive way about him self but physically and mentally. It was beautiful to watch both Cals self acceptance and watch him work with Micah to also accept himself in ways!

I think what this book does beautifully is highlight the way the system can work against kids and young adults that are in it, while also showing how hard social works do work in what can be a thankless job. I LOVED that the power imbalance was addressed when it came to finances, Cal was quick to help make Micah feel secure and draw up papers on what Micah would receive if they were to separate (those Cals not letting his boy go!).

This book is 10/5 stars honestly, if you love a sweet mm romance with daddy/boy dynamics it's so beautiful and so worth the read!

[Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Almstead Island: Newcomer's Club series. It can be read as a stand alone, you won't be lost. However, I do recommend reading the previous book Will, not only because it's really good, but because some of the characters are introduced in it.
Micah's life was terrible and his luck just kept getting worse. But he did not give up and kept getting up every time life knocked him down. But he was getting so desperate, despair weighing heavily in his heart. Then a miracle in disguise happened and brought Calvin into his life.
Calvin was a grump who liked to keep to himself. However, Micah captivated him with his good heart and sweet shy personality. Under Calvin's care and attention Micah blossomed, his despair slowly replaced with hope, love, and self confidence. But it wasn't just Micah that evolved in this relationship. Calvin also made new discoveries about himself. Loved that he accepted his feelings, there was no wishy washy, and sought answers to be a better person for Micah. Their chemistry just sizzled, each emotional and physical connection made their steamy moments even more special.
The Daddy/boy relationship developed so naturally and at a perfect pace, each MC learning their role as they explored the different dynamics. Their road to their HEA was not perfect, with bumps along the way (some I wanted Karma to really get them), but trust, love, and acceptance grew stronger with each bump.
The subject of homelessness and foster care was handled respectfully, not hiding the struggles, suffering, and pain.
This story had the perfect balance of emotional, humorous, and steamy moments.
I can't wait for the next book!!

[BookGeek1987 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been patiently waiting for this book after Micah popped up in book 1 and I was not disappointed. I was super excited when my preorder was delivered to my kindle.

I’ve read all the books by this author and I loved each one, and Calvin lived up to my expectations. To confirm this is daddy/boy but zero age play/regression - if you want that kind of daddy/boy then try the ‘just a little’ series.

Now I am a fan of what I call ‘insta-connection’ where characters just want to be with the other immediately and then explore a relationship straight away. You do have that here on Calvin’s part, he just decides to let some random runaway who was sleeping in his garden shed move into his house so he can take care of him, whilst Micah is just confused as to why this rich handsome guy is into him. However there’s no immediate rushing to bed, they do explore but no actual sex until 70% in.

I thought the spice scenes were good - tags for dirty talk, cock cage and cock warming.

I also liked that Calvin understood he had no clue what he was doing as a Daddy and took steps to research and speak with Will (from book 1). It’s frustrating when a newbie Daddy/Sub is perfect from the get go, so this was a nice change.

We had the usual 3rd part external angst which lead to healthy communication between the two of them. Calvin messed up and admitted this, and they talked it out like adults (yay for communication!)

We also get a wonderful cameo of Anders at the end, so set us up nicely for that book - and yeah I’ve already got my preorder in….

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 5 out of 5]

CALVIN is the second book in the Almstead Island: Newcomer's Club and you don't need to have read book one (Will and Beckett) but I recommend you do, just because it's a wonderful story.

And this one is too! Don't get me wrong, Calvin comes into Micah's life on a wrecking ball, steamrollering over him in pretty much every way. Luckily for Calvin, that is exactly what Micah needs, although he does push back in small ways, which was great to see.

Will and Beckett are also in this book, with Will helping a clueless Calvin, and Beckett being a friend to Micah when he desperately needs one. One thing I will say, is I loved Beckett's response to Micah's problem!!! Muah *chef's kiss*

Calvin and Micah work in pretty much every way imaginable. Yes, they made mistakes and didn't communicate 100% but who does? They both had good reasons for behaving the way they did. Jamie is Calvin's best friend and I know he was looking out for him, but he was a bit of a d!ck too!!

Another fantastic story that had me gripped from the very (horrible - because of everything Micah has been through) beginning, right through to the HEA that completely satisfied. I know it is Emil and Anders next, but I'm hoping for Jamie and Noah to have a story too, whether together or separately, I don't care!

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 29, 2025

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have read Will then you would remember the scene when Beckett was called to a young man, Micah sleeping in a shed, at the time all we knew was that he was taken into Calvin Rutledge home, the owner who's land he was trespassing on. Well this is their story.
From the moment they met, something clicked in Calvin and you knew that what ever else happened to Micah, he would be OK with Calvin. Micah was a sweet young man that had had the hardest of upbringings and the people who should have looked after didn't and you could understand why he found it hard to trust and thinking that the life he was living now would be whipped away. He sweet demur brought out the best and in a couple of cases the worst in folk and it was good to see Micah flourish being with Calvin. Calvin was a confident very wealthy man who whilst at first did not understand the Daddy/Boy relationship knew that it was something he wanted. I liked that Calvin did his research and then met up with Will, it just shows how much Micah meant to him. In fact Calvin never rushed Micah into anything.
We also get more from Will and Beckett and whilst the scenes are in their book, I liked that we got the perspective from Micah and Calvin.
As with a lot of romance's there is that bump in the road, that whilst not good, got Calvin talking more and showed how mature Micah was, with how he handled it.
As we now know who is involved in book 3 I am looking forward to reading it

[Caroline Griffith · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was so exiting to head back to Almstead Island and to finally/ officially meet Calvin and Micah. We got to see their initial meeting in Will's story, but now we get their full interaction. Calvin finds out very quickly that his stowaway has been through hell and back but he's very smart both with books and on the street. Micah learns that public Calvin and private Calvin are very different but have the same heart. When both men can fulfill a need for the other two things begin to unfold, falling in love with a sweet man is very simple but learning to trust and believe the words over the actions can be very, very difficult.

Once both men overcome their initial apprehensions and assumptions, they work to be the very best for one another. Calvin can sense Micah's need to give up control but he's never been a daddy to anyone though it get much aligns with his overall being. Micah can sense that Calvin desire to be in charge and cares deeply for all in his life, but he's straight , right? When a moment makes it clear that Micah is in demand, Calvin is ready to stake his claim even when he's not quite sure what exactly that means. But he's ready to launch into the deep end of Daddyhood but he soon realizes it's not as cut and dry as he thought. While he can give Micah what he wants and much of what he needs in his day to life and even at night but the guys aren't quite as in sync as they thought. Micah is hit with a blast from the past but he's always need to be his own advocate and savior and though he has a daddy and other allies, he finds this aspect of his life hard to let go. He puts himself in danger and Calvin comes to his rescue but there is a cost for both men and they are unsure that they can overcome this moment. But their love is strong and with some help from their friends they learn about how each other can do better to communicate their needs and understanding of one another.

I adored this story and I am exited for for Almstead Island to come!!!

[Manon · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fairly low angst, cute story about a boy hitting rock bottom and a man who doesn't know that he is queer, a Daddy and just riding to the rescue.

I enjoyed it in general but there were too many small niggles for me to give it more than 3 stars. I especially found it difficult to like Calvin.

Calvin is a bulldozer, while I love him rescuing Micah and wanting to help, he also takes over and too often just decides whats right for them.
I was also not 100% convinced about his sudden sexual discovery he again just takes with no looking back to why he went from only women to being suddenly physically attracted to a man.

I also didn't understand why he wouldn't helped Micah developing his financial gift instead of keeping him like a househusband instead of an intelligent asset to his company.

Micah is a sweetheart. He got handed a really bad life and is desperate to survive. I love how he attempts independence and gets Calvin to back down once in a while. I like how he found friendship with Beckett and Will.

And then Jamie - grr, he definitely was too much.

There is some drama about Micah's brother, it felt a bit too stereotype, the need to add this because it felt expected but I would have loved the book more without.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this unexpected clueless Daddy and little one not really used to being spoiled dynamic. It started out on a bummer, with Micah struggling to survive, and I was right there along with Micah in being afraid of getting tossed in jail for trespassing. Thankfully it was not that kind of a book.

However having Calvin suddenly be so bewitched by Micah was a bit unbelievable, throughout the book, I didn’t believe Calvin could just fall for Micah in that tiny instant of seeing him at the shed. I mean it’s possible, but my cold dead heart did not believe it.

Maybe if I had read the first book I would have?

Not believing in the chemistry, it was still an enjoyable book. It was a quick read for me, and just what I needed after an intense mystery read.

The size difference was an interesting aspect of this story. And I love the classic pretty women shopping spree moment, especially the part where he went to get a suit for an upcoming party.

This was a fun read with some heavy subjects added. But some part felt a bit condensed, like I’d have liked the lawyer come back to actually sign the paper work, or more resolution with the older brother.

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Calvin & Micah‘s story!

Calvin is a confident man who is very true to himself and who doesn‘t question himself. He instantly is drawn to Micah and never even question his new found queer side. He doesn’t think about what it changes or what people think. He just goes for it and lives his life… like it should be without any fear! He also decides he wants to be a daddy… and he so nailed that one after a few learning experiences.

Micah is a young man who had a very rough life before meeting Calvin and there are some intense topics like foster care, homelessness and being failed by the system. To get to know Micah and see him through Calvin’s eyes was so heartwarming . To see Micah grow and come out of his shell because of Calvin 😍 there is so much fondness in their interaction.

Kerry Kilpatrick did an amazing job describing their daddy/ boy dynamic and it was so much fun to read this book. They are so sweet together and it was amazing to meet Will & Beckett again.
I can absolutely recommend this book and can’t wait for the next one!

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Between Calvin's tech firm and his family’s endowment fund, there’s no shortage of people trying to get close to him. Offering a trespasser a job to run interference makes no sense, but neither does his instant attraction to sweet, submissive Micah. He never expected to fall in love with a man, let alone be the Daddy who takes on all his burdens. Micah's life has never been easy, and his only option left was to sell himself. The intimidating and wildly sexy Calvin Rutledge offers him a lifeline out of the garden shed and off the streets. In exchange for room, board, and a chance at a better future, he would be his companion. But he never anticipated falling in love with his boss or craving the care that comes with being his boy.

This was a sweet story of how Calvin met Micah and became his Daddy. I loved Micah's attempts at independence and stopping Calvin from spending too much money on him. The trouble from Micah's brother introduced some mild drama. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like Daddy/boy dynamic.

[Mel Polk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much. Okay, look, I adore this series so far (and the Just a Little books) so I was pretty sure I'd fall for this one. By the end of chapter three I knew Calvin and Micah would slay me--and they did. I don't want to spoil anything but there's a.. thing. A facet? A.. whatever. It's never really addressed/talked about in the books I've read (I've read *a lot* of romance novels, folks). In fact, the focus is on the opposite and so it being remarked on and even celebrated was lovely (yep, vague. that's me). Did I find the 75-80% angst completely expected? Yeah, I did. But that's okay. I wasn't here for heartbreak and I'd much rather experience an "of course that happened" than a "wtaf? that wasn't even remotely telegraphed" outcome, if you get me.

All that to say: Calvin was a breath of fresh air. I adore the way he embraced things, even if he was a bit too.. uh.. unthinkingly enthusiastic in his approach at times. Micah...Micah, I just want to wrap in a blanket and hug. (Bonus, seeing Beckett and Will makes me want to go back and read their book again.)

[Jack Harkness · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vultures, daffodils, tzatziki, alphabet mafia, brötchen, bed rot & movies, citrus & cream scent, Irish snug
Endearing
*Sigh* This story is delightful and satisfying. It involves a Daddy/boy dynamic which the MCs didn't expect or know they wanted/needed. Both assume their status without knowing anything about how to be a Daddy or boy.

Calvin, a tech investment billionaire, is a natural Daddy. But, he has never dated or was attracted to another man. Seeing the homeless man living in his garden shed, stirs the latent Daddy in him. The other man is noticeably emaciated.

Micah has a rough, hard life. He's only 23 and has never had anywhere to truly call home. All he owns is in his ragged backpack. Finally, with no other way to earn money, he resorts to the only option available. Before he can, he's discovered "living" in the garden shed belonging to Calvin. Your heart will break at the book's beginning for Micah and be surprised by Calvin.

I enjoyed this book very much. I enthusiastically recommend it.

[Ζωή Παππά · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second book in this contemporary series but you can read it as a standalone. We follow Micah, a young man who is homeless because of some horrible circumstances and Calvin, a wealthy man who falls for him and wants to help him.
I loved Micah from chapter one. I felt for him and wanted him to be happy and have a wonderful life. I also really liked his friendship with Beckett, one of the main characters from book one.
I had a hard time connecting with Calvin. He was too possesssive for my personal taste and it felt to me that he fell for Micah too fast, especially since he thought he was straight until the moment he met him. I'm more of a slow burn romance kind of person and I have a hard time connecting with possesssive protagonists. But that's my personal preference. The book was well written and nicely paced and Micah and Calvin were happy together. I really loved the first book in the series and even though I didn't relate with Calvin I still enjoyed book two. I'm excited to read the next book in the series.