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The Men of Haven Grove #2
Cake & Cocktails
Cake & Cocktails is a steamy, M/M age-gap romance featuring a grumpy teddy bear of a bar owner and a quirky baker just looking for love, acceptance, and a forever family.
Henry is well-aware he’s a bit of a grump. Outside of his passion for running the Riggs Family Roadhouse, and a precious few close friends and family, Henry doesn’t need anything—or anyone—else. But when a mysterious young man walks into the bar, Henry finds himself obsessed with making sure the blue-eyed beauty is taken care of.
Determined to get far, far away, Jack fled his nightmarish home life with barely a hint of a plan. Five hundred miles later, the small town of Haven Grove might just hold the perfect recipe for healing Jack’s wounded heart. Maybe he’ll stay a while, especially if the cuddly bear of a man behind the bar keeps plying him with food, kindness, and sweet smiles.
Henry just wants to help the newcomer get back on his feet. Instead, for whatever reason, his interfering heart is mixing up a different plan. Jack doesn’t know how he could leave when Haven Grove has all the ingredients for his happily ever after, but do Jack and Henry have what it takes to bake up their very own perfect slice of love?
Henry is well-aware he’s a bit of a grump. Outside of his passion for running the Riggs Family Roadhouse, and a precious few close friends and family, Henry doesn’t need anything—or anyone—else. But when a mysterious young man walks into the bar, Henry finds himself obsessed with making sure the blue-eyed beauty is taken care of.
Determined to get far, far away, Jack fled his nightmarish home life with barely a hint of a plan. Five hundred miles later, the small town of Haven Grove might just hold the perfect recipe for healing Jack’s wounded heart. Maybe he’ll stay a while, especially if the cuddly bear of a man behind the bar keeps plying him with food, kindness, and sweet smiles.
Henry just wants to help the newcomer get back on his feet. Instead, for whatever reason, his interfering heart is mixing up a different plan. Jack doesn’t know how he could leave when Haven Grove has all the ingredients for his happily ever after, but do Jack and Henry have what it takes to bake up their very own perfect slice of love?
- GenresRomanceM M RomanceLGBT
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2025
34 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
A.D. Ellis
92 books743 followersEscape into addictive, sexy, emotional queer M/M romance.
A.D. Ellis is an Indiana girl, born and raised. She spends much of her time in central Indiana as an instructional coach/teacher in the inner city of Indianapolis, being a mom to two amazing teens, and wondering how she and her husband of over two decades haven't driven each other insane yet. A lot of her time is also devoted to phone call avoidance and her hatred of cooking.
She loves chocolate, hot tea, sweet wine with friends, pizza, and naps along with reading and writing romance. These loves don’t leave much time for housework. Who would pick cleaning the house over a nap or a good book? She uses any extra time to increase her fluency in sarcasm.
A.D. uses she/they pronouns.
Sign up at http://www.subscribepage.com/ADEllisN... for a FREE male/male romance book.
A.D. Ellis does not use generative AI to create books or covers.
A.D. Ellis is an Indiana girl, born and raised. She spends much of her time in central Indiana as an instructional coach/teacher in the inner city of Indianapolis, being a mom to two amazing teens, and wondering how she and her husband of over two decades haven't driven each other insane yet. A lot of her time is also devoted to phone call avoidance and her hatred of cooking.
She loves chocolate, hot tea, sweet wine with friends, pizza, and naps along with reading and writing romance. These loves don’t leave much time for housework. Who would pick cleaning the house over a nap or a good book? She uses any extra time to increase her fluency in sarcasm.
A.D. uses she/they pronouns.
Sign up at http://www.subscribepage.com/ADEllisN... for a FREE male/male romance book.
A.D. Ellis does not use generative AI to create books or covers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
July 17, 2025
4 stars with this slow contemporary romance.
Since I absolutely loved the first book I jumped into the next one for the series. I didn't connect to this one as much as the Peaches and Cream story.
An intriguing beginning as someone was dump diving into the bar’s garbage.
A great start as Henry, the grumpy soft hearten truck stop owner sees a customer that takes his breath away.
Jackson, 25 years old was homeless and living roughly to restart his life again away from his horrible past.
A slow romance as they get to know each other while living, working in close proximity together. I liked this romance but as I said it's a slow moving storyline. I did skim a bit as the story seemed to drag for me in parts. A few dramas with parts of Jack’s past popping into the story endangering him.
The characters from the first book are included as the family grows. Dual povs are included for an HEA.
Since I absolutely loved the first book I jumped into the next one for the series. I didn't connect to this one as much as the Peaches and Cream story.
An intriguing beginning as someone was dump diving into the bar’s garbage.
A great start as Henry, the grumpy soft hearten truck stop owner sees a customer that takes his breath away.
Jackson, 25 years old was homeless and living roughly to restart his life again away from his horrible past.
A slow romance as they get to know each other while living, working in close proximity together. I liked this romance but as I said it's a slow moving storyline. I did skim a bit as the story seemed to drag for me in parts. A few dramas with parts of Jack’s past popping into the story endangering him.
The characters from the first book are included as the family grows. Dual povs are included for an HEA.
April 9, 2025
This was an adorable, heart warming, hurt/comfort, love giving, huge all embracing hug. Wholesome with just a smidge of drama and love to go all the way around.
March 28, 2025
Review of Cake & Cocktails by A.D. Ellis
The Men of Haven Grove Series
Cake & Cocktails is the second book in The Men of Haven Grove series. When I saw this ARC available, it just so happened that I had finished reading the first book in the series, Peaches & Cream, literally the night before. So I snagged this one quickly since I could bounce from the first book to the series to the second and stay immersed in the world being built by Ellis.
The first book introduces the main characters of Hudson and Lance. Hudson is the younger of two brothers, and Lance is the older man who comes back into his life and convinces him to take a chance on him, and possibly love. Peaches & Cream plays out as a cute, age-gap, father's best friend story. Hudson and Lance have incredible chemistry.
The Family Business
The reason I mention all the world-building that takes place in the first book of the series is that the author has done an incredible job of naturally dropping plot-driving elements into this series. Haven Grove comes to life with personable characters, landmarks, and business deals. I especially like the way Ellis incorporates the business details to flesh out the plot and elevate the story from a run-of-the-mill romance to one where the reader is invested in the success of the Riggs family.
Main Character Moments
The Riggs family: father Casey Joe and children Hudson and Henry, are prominent members of their small town.
They also come with a lot of baggage due to their life circumstances. Casey Joe's wife, and the boy's mother, abandons them at a young age. She splits, never to be seen again. When Casey Joe turns to his brother for a shoulder to cry on, he discovers his snake of a wife in bed with his own brother. This sets up a years-long feud that drives a wedge between the brothers and leads to both the elder Riggs adopting unhealthy lifestyles. Casey Joe's brother is an alcoholic who has finally succumbed to his disease before the first book starts.
The children never quite recover and spend their lives not trusting anyone and avoiding all potential relationships where they might get themselves hurt. Hudson only does casual hookups. Henry just doesn't date at all.
In the first book, Hudson recently took over the peach orchard the Riggs family is known for. Acres and acres of peach trees that Billy nearly ruined because of bad financial decisions and poor management. Lance returns to the town and much of the first book revolves around the business venture between Hudson and Lance, whose family runs and operates the local ice cream place, and the two develop a synergy working together. Henry also incorporates peaches into the menu at the Roadhouse. So, the Riggs family's peach orchard is important to the town. The two brothers work hard to uphold the family legacy, even in turbulent times.
The Set Up
Henry
Henry mans the Roadhouse, the local bar. He likes his place in life and runs the roadhouse with pride. He notices that someone has been messing up the trash out in the alleyway. He then starts to suspect that someone is sleeping out on a bench outside the restaurant and starts leaving food for the mystery
Jack
Jackson has recently moved to Haven Grove. Saying he moves is not entirely accurate, as what happens is he escapes from his abusive family situation. Without a destination, he flees and ends up in Haven Grove. Turns out he's the one who is hanging around the Roadhouse and trying to avoid anyone noticing that he's homeless. But Henry notices something is up and starts to look out for Jack.
Henry and Jack orbit one another for a few days before they finally make contact. I think it's really sweet the way it happens but don't really want to spoil too much. But Jack starts sleeping on Henry's couch because things happen. Instantly attracted to one another, it's only a matter of time before their relationship becomes physical and romantic. This behavior is out of character for both of them. Both of them are clearly demisexual but that word is not ever expressly mentioned. They have to know their potential partners, they don't feel attraction before they are friends, etc.
So demisexual, yes. Even though it's not expressly named, that's how I understood their characterizations. And once the couple feels comfortable with one another their romance is off like gangbusters, and they are sweet as hell.
Daddy Vibes
Now this is me inserting my own reading preferences I suppose but I have been reading a ton of Daddy/little books. However, going along with how demisexuality wasn't ever expressly discussed, I have to also state that Henry and Jack had major Daddy/little vibes going on. Jack isn't written quite as a little, but a lot of his mannerisms are very little. He says cute things like 'Skywalkers' for skyscrapers and has a child-like nievite about him that screams little. And Henry is quite a Daddy too, with his need to take care of the people around him. It isn't a kinky book, but the vibes were all there.
Overall: Recommend or Nah?
I love this series. Strong recommend on this installment and the first one Peaches & Cream. I can't wait for the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Men of Haven Grove Series
Cake & Cocktails is the second book in The Men of Haven Grove series. When I saw this ARC available, it just so happened that I had finished reading the first book in the series, Peaches & Cream, literally the night before. So I snagged this one quickly since I could bounce from the first book to the series to the second and stay immersed in the world being built by Ellis.
The first book introduces the main characters of Hudson and Lance. Hudson is the younger of two brothers, and Lance is the older man who comes back into his life and convinces him to take a chance on him, and possibly love. Peaches & Cream plays out as a cute, age-gap, father's best friend story. Hudson and Lance have incredible chemistry.
The Family Business
The reason I mention all the world-building that takes place in the first book of the series is that the author has done an incredible job of naturally dropping plot-driving elements into this series. Haven Grove comes to life with personable characters, landmarks, and business deals. I especially like the way Ellis incorporates the business details to flesh out the plot and elevate the story from a run-of-the-mill romance to one where the reader is invested in the success of the Riggs family.
Main Character Moments
The Riggs family: father Casey Joe and children Hudson and Henry, are prominent members of their small town.
They also come with a lot of baggage due to their life circumstances. Casey Joe's wife, and the boy's mother, abandons them at a young age. She splits, never to be seen again. When Casey Joe turns to his brother for a shoulder to cry on, he discovers his snake of a wife in bed with his own brother. This sets up a years-long feud that drives a wedge between the brothers and leads to both the elder Riggs adopting unhealthy lifestyles. Casey Joe's brother is an alcoholic who has finally succumbed to his disease before the first book starts.
The children never quite recover and spend their lives not trusting anyone and avoiding all potential relationships where they might get themselves hurt. Hudson only does casual hookups. Henry just doesn't date at all.
In the first book, Hudson recently took over the peach orchard the Riggs family is known for. Acres and acres of peach trees that Billy nearly ruined because of bad financial decisions and poor management. Lance returns to the town and much of the first book revolves around the business venture between Hudson and Lance, whose family runs and operates the local ice cream place, and the two develop a synergy working together. Henry also incorporates peaches into the menu at the Roadhouse. So, the Riggs family's peach orchard is important to the town. The two brothers work hard to uphold the family legacy, even in turbulent times.
The Set Up
Henry
Henry mans the Roadhouse, the local bar. He likes his place in life and runs the roadhouse with pride. He notices that someone has been messing up the trash out in the alleyway. He then starts to suspect that someone is sleeping out on a bench outside the restaurant and starts leaving food for the mystery
Jack
Jackson has recently moved to Haven Grove. Saying he moves is not entirely accurate, as what happens is he escapes from his abusive family situation. Without a destination, he flees and ends up in Haven Grove. Turns out he's the one who is hanging around the Roadhouse and trying to avoid anyone noticing that he's homeless. But Henry notices something is up and starts to look out for Jack.
Henry and Jack orbit one another for a few days before they finally make contact. I think it's really sweet the way it happens but don't really want to spoil too much. But Jack starts sleeping on Henry's couch because things happen. Instantly attracted to one another, it's only a matter of time before their relationship becomes physical and romantic. This behavior is out of character for both of them. Both of them are clearly demisexual but that word is not ever expressly mentioned. They have to know their potential partners, they don't feel attraction before they are friends, etc.
So demisexual, yes. Even though it's not expressly named, that's how I understood their characterizations. And once the couple feels comfortable with one another their romance is off like gangbusters, and they are sweet as hell.
Daddy Vibes
Now this is me inserting my own reading preferences I suppose but I have been reading a ton of Daddy/little books. However, going along with how demisexuality wasn't ever expressly discussed, I have to also state that Henry and Jack had major Daddy/little vibes going on. Jack isn't written quite as a little, but a lot of his mannerisms are very little. He says cute things like 'Skywalkers' for skyscrapers and has a child-like nievite about him that screams little. And Henry is quite a Daddy too, with his need to take care of the people around him. It isn't a kinky book, but the vibes were all there.
Overall: Recommend or Nah?
I love this series. Strong recommend on this installment and the first one Peaches & Cream. I can't wait for the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2025
This is another great story to read!! This is the second book in the Men of Haven Grove series. Henry Riggs is owner of the Riggs Roadhouse. The Riggs family also own the Juicy Peach General Store and the Peach Orchard. Hudson runs the Orchard and the General Store. Jackson Garner gets off the bus and is new to the town of Haven Grove. For the first time there is no one yelling at him. His anxiety levels have dropped several degrees. He is on his own and happy for the first time in a long time. The last time he was happy was when his mother was alive and he was six years old. Jack has no money so he sleeps on the bench behind the Roadhouse. Jack goes into the Roadhouse for lunch and stays as he charges his phone then leaves again. Henry notices that someone has been going through the trash and he thinks it is someone looking for food. Henry leaves leftovers in a container on the bench and a pillow and blanket. He then leaves a tarp when it looks like it is goin to rain. He also leaves a notepad and pen so they can write notes. A few days later Henry offers his couch to Jack. A few days after that Jack accepts to offer. Jack agrees to sleep on the couch but he is looking for a job. Henry's father has a heart attack and Henry spends time taking care of his father, while Henry is away Jack works in the bar. Everyone is excited with his cakes. Jack agrees to bake a cake for Henry to see if he is any good. Henry loves the cake and they all come up with a plan to update the Roadhouse addition with two Top of the line oven, the very best mixers, Baking pans, and gorgeous display cases. They turn it into a place for Jack to make his cakes. Casey Joe (Henry's Dad) took graphics and design classes online and he is very good. CJ likes Jack and helps make the shop look good. CJ created adorable menu's for Jack's side of the Roadhouse, Cake and Cocktails has its own menu. Casey Joe sets up a website and makes sure everyone knows how to use it. It is for a one-stop-shop for the Orchard, The Juicy Peach, The Roadhouse, Lance's Ice Cream Shop and the New Addition of Cake and Cocktails shop. We set up a Newsletter and when it was sent out there was a problem with the name, however no one said anything about it until Brother Larry came by complaining and trying to get Jack to leave, saying he was a bad influence for the Riggs. Jack borrows the Truck to go to the store and get a few things because the delivery is late. Several hours later Jack is still not back and Henry gets concerned so he send Casey to find him. Jack was run off the road. Casey found him and the Police and Ambulance came to take Jack to the Hospital. Cousin Douglas ran Jack off the road, Uncle Joseph came and threatened Jack to give him his stuff back. Joseph and Douglas had a plan to kill Jack for the insurance money, Jack found his suitcase and looked inside they found an envelop an called the cops to come take it, this was added to the case against Joseph and Douglas. Jack asked am I finally free of them??? Has JAck found the Family he has always wanted???????.
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 20, 2025
The Men of Haven Grove are quite something, perhaps there is something in the air, perhaps we have been blessed to meet some of the most amazing, considerate, romantic and caring men. It will probably remain a mystery, something beautiful and sweet just like the peaches the town is famous for and which help these men run their businesses.
Jack wasn't planning on a life in Haven Grove. Most of the time he felt fortunate to have some kind of life and all of the time, until the day he landed in the town, he was reminded to feel fortunate. Fleeing, at long last, from his Uncle Jack had left with few belongings, the cash he could gather and heart full of hope. He found a secluded spot behind the bar and set himself up there, hoping to make his small amount of money last long enough to find him a job, What he wasn't expecting was Henry's kind heart. The meals left out, the blankets, the offer of a place to sleep. And all without question.
Henry knew he was helping whomever was sleeping out back and happy to do so. When he made the offer to the new young man in town, of a place to stay whilst he looked for work, it took him a little while to make the connection. To say he was happy about it all would probably be an understatement. Making people happy, ensuring their comfort, was something Henry lived for. Discovering Jack was something he could never have imagined but would never give back.
Before long Jack is proving himself in the kitchen with his fabulous baking, making tentative friendships with people in town, hoping this magical place which has welcomed him with only curious glances, is going to be the right one for him. Hoping that Henry is going to be the man for him. Only time will tell but it does all seem to be working out, for them all. After all this story is Henry and Jack's but Hudson and Lance as well as the boy's father all play their parts and have strong roles in the story, they are a close-knit family.
Cake & Cocktails, the title of this second book, hints at developments to come in the story, developments that are mouthwatering, described perfectly and slotted seamlessly into life in Haven Grove. This story picks up from where book 1 left off and primarily gives us Henry's story. It is a beautiful one too, this gentle but reserved man is about to find his happiness. The journey may not always be smooth but it is so much fun. And as for Jack, I am not sure there has been a character who has been so deserving of his new lover, new found family and success. A.D. Ellis your Haven Grove men have my heart and these books have my full attention!
Jack wasn't planning on a life in Haven Grove. Most of the time he felt fortunate to have some kind of life and all of the time, until the day he landed in the town, he was reminded to feel fortunate. Fleeing, at long last, from his Uncle Jack had left with few belongings, the cash he could gather and heart full of hope. He found a secluded spot behind the bar and set himself up there, hoping to make his small amount of money last long enough to find him a job, What he wasn't expecting was Henry's kind heart. The meals left out, the blankets, the offer of a place to sleep. And all without question.
Henry knew he was helping whomever was sleeping out back and happy to do so. When he made the offer to the new young man in town, of a place to stay whilst he looked for work, it took him a little while to make the connection. To say he was happy about it all would probably be an understatement. Making people happy, ensuring their comfort, was something Henry lived for. Discovering Jack was something he could never have imagined but would never give back.
Before long Jack is proving himself in the kitchen with his fabulous baking, making tentative friendships with people in town, hoping this magical place which has welcomed him with only curious glances, is going to be the right one for him. Hoping that Henry is going to be the man for him. Only time will tell but it does all seem to be working out, for them all. After all this story is Henry and Jack's but Hudson and Lance as well as the boy's father all play their parts and have strong roles in the story, they are a close-knit family.
Cake & Cocktails, the title of this second book, hints at developments to come in the story, developments that are mouthwatering, described perfectly and slotted seamlessly into life in Haven Grove. This story picks up from where book 1 left off and primarily gives us Henry's story. It is a beautiful one too, this gentle but reserved man is about to find his happiness. The journey may not always be smooth but it is so much fun. And as for Jack, I am not sure there has been a character who has been so deserving of his new lover, new found family and success. A.D. Ellis your Haven Grove men have my heart and these books have my full attention!
March 31, 2025
Jack has been trapped with his extended family for years - doing what they said, getting the degree they specified and basically doing what was expected of him. Finally breaking free, he's starting over in a new town, without much to his name. Trying to find his feet, he's grateful for help from Henry, the local bar owner. Intimidating in size and stature, Henry is actually a sweet man with a caring nature and marshmallow heart.
Henry realizes that Jack is barely scraping by and can't help but offer his assistance of a temporary home, meals and even a job. As Henry and Jack spend more time together something more than friendship develops.
Jack has been forced into a specific shape by his 'family.' However, he has secretly developed his talent for baking until he is a formidable force in the kitchen. What started as a hobby turned into a passion for him and now Henry gives him the opportunity to make his passion his living as well. Jack seems to have a bit of PTSD from the bullying and long term emotional abuse from his blood family. He starts to heal in Haven Grove and builds the confidence to reach for his chosen profession. He is a really sweet character who is slowly coming to realize his own worth.
While Henry may be a loving person, he is a fierce protector for those he cares about. Not only will he help Jack get back on his feet, he's prepared to protect him from his so-called family who were supposed to love and support him.
Jack and Henry together are a study in contrasts. Henry is large and intimidating looking, while Jack has a smaller frame. Henry knows himself and his place in the world. He owns the local bar in the town he's lived in his entire life. He's confident in himself and willing to stand up not only for himself but others in the face of uneducated, small-town bigotry. Jack, the product of years of abuse, is a bit shy and unsure of himself. Seeing himself through Henry's eyes helps him to grow and build his self-worth. The two together just complement each other well. I really enjoyed watching their connection grow and Jack achieving his dreams.
Four stars for this small-town, M/M romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Henry realizes that Jack is barely scraping by and can't help but offer his assistance of a temporary home, meals and even a job. As Henry and Jack spend more time together something more than friendship develops.
Jack has been forced into a specific shape by his 'family.' However, he has secretly developed his talent for baking until he is a formidable force in the kitchen. What started as a hobby turned into a passion for him and now Henry gives him the opportunity to make his passion his living as well. Jack seems to have a bit of PTSD from the bullying and long term emotional abuse from his blood family. He starts to heal in Haven Grove and builds the confidence to reach for his chosen profession. He is a really sweet character who is slowly coming to realize his own worth.
While Henry may be a loving person, he is a fierce protector for those he cares about. Not only will he help Jack get back on his feet, he's prepared to protect him from his so-called family who were supposed to love and support him.
Jack and Henry together are a study in contrasts. Henry is large and intimidating looking, while Jack has a smaller frame. Henry knows himself and his place in the world. He owns the local bar in the town he's lived in his entire life. He's confident in himself and willing to stand up not only for himself but others in the face of uneducated, small-town bigotry. Jack, the product of years of abuse, is a bit shy and unsure of himself. Seeing himself through Henry's eyes helps him to grow and build his self-worth. The two together just complement each other well. I really enjoyed watching their connection grow and Jack achieving his dreams.
Four stars for this small-town, M/M romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2025
4.5 stars!
This is book two of the author’s Men of Haven Grove series and features Henry, the older brother of Hudson from book one.
Henry was a caretaker, pure and simple. He wasn’t interested in a relationship, he preferred his privacy and was more than satisfied with his small family circle…he certainly didn’t expect to ever fall in love but he absolutely LIVED to help others. When he realized he had someone in need squatting behind his restaurant and bar, digging through the trash for food, all his protective instincts were roused and he was incapable of not getting involved.
Jack was new in Haven Grove having chosen it at random after getting off a nearby bus. On the run and in hiding from his past, he found an old booth behind a restaurant to sleep in until he could decide whether to stay or move on. Getting to know the restaurant’s generous and handsome owner was going a long way toward helping him decide but could such a man be interested in a homeless man? As they got to know each other and Jack’s love of baking became apparent, an idea was born that allowed him to do what he loved while working in the restaurant and staying close to Henry who he’d come dangerously close to loving.
My heart broke for Jack! After everything he’d been through since losing his mother as a small child, he was incredibly insecure about his own worth and so pitifully grateful when he was treated with even basic human kindness…I just wanted to hug him tight and never let go. And Henry, he was exactly what Jack needed—kind, generous, protective and caring—everything Jack had been missing since losing his mother. I loved them both so much, they each filled a need in the other…Henry provided love and affection for Jack and Jack gave Henry someone who loved him and would never walk away. They were each exactly what the other had desperately needed, even if they hadn’t realized it at the time.
This was a really good book with two MCs, each familiar with loss, who found each other and won the HEA they didn’t even know they’d been searching for. 4.5 stars!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book two of the author’s Men of Haven Grove series and features Henry, the older brother of Hudson from book one.
Henry was a caretaker, pure and simple. He wasn’t interested in a relationship, he preferred his privacy and was more than satisfied with his small family circle…he certainly didn’t expect to ever fall in love but he absolutely LIVED to help others. When he realized he had someone in need squatting behind his restaurant and bar, digging through the trash for food, all his protective instincts were roused and he was incapable of not getting involved.
Jack was new in Haven Grove having chosen it at random after getting off a nearby bus. On the run and in hiding from his past, he found an old booth behind a restaurant to sleep in until he could decide whether to stay or move on. Getting to know the restaurant’s generous and handsome owner was going a long way toward helping him decide but could such a man be interested in a homeless man? As they got to know each other and Jack’s love of baking became apparent, an idea was born that allowed him to do what he loved while working in the restaurant and staying close to Henry who he’d come dangerously close to loving.
My heart broke for Jack! After everything he’d been through since losing his mother as a small child, he was incredibly insecure about his own worth and so pitifully grateful when he was treated with even basic human kindness…I just wanted to hug him tight and never let go. And Henry, he was exactly what Jack needed—kind, generous, protective and caring—everything Jack had been missing since losing his mother. I loved them both so much, they each filled a need in the other…Henry provided love and affection for Jack and Jack gave Henry someone who loved him and would never walk away. They were each exactly what the other had desperately needed, even if they hadn’t realized it at the time.
This was a really good book with two MCs, each familiar with loss, who found each other and won the HEA they didn’t even know they’d been searching for. 4.5 stars!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2025
- age gap
- small town
- found family
- slow burn
- likeable main and secondary characters
Honestly this one was as enjoyable as the first in the series – at least for me.
This book is about Henry, Hudson's brother, who we both met in the previous book.
Meeting already known characters again and getting to know them better is always a joy for me.
And it was well done here. All of them played very important roles and enriched the story.
Let me tell you, Henry is such a wonderful, caring and loving person. Kind-hearted and always willing to lend a helping hand he is just a big softy. He may seem a bit grumpy but in truth he's simply a bit lonely and needs to find 'his person'.
How wonderful that he did just that in Jack who had an even less than subpar childhood.
And how lucky that Jack was just right for Henry, too.
I think I fell in love with both of them very fast.
So it was no wonder I was rooting for them. I loved the delicious slow burn between those two, first developing a friendship and then finding in each other the love of their lives.
I loved seeing Jack coming into himself. Watching him finding his self-esteem and accepting his own worth, making friends, meeting people in his life that loved and appreciated him even going so far as finding some kind of 'family' was so so satisfying!
That he was able to make his own career and contribute to the business was the chefs kiss so to speak.
Skilful and solid writing as well as an easy to follow along story with really likeable characters made this an entertaining and engaging read.
So I can say I definitely enjoyed this book.
I can't wait for the next book about Casey Joe. I'm curious what A.D. Ellis has in store for us regarding Hudson's and Henry's father.
I have received a complimentary copy but this is my honest and willingly given opinion
- small town
- found family
- slow burn
- likeable main and secondary characters
Honestly this one was as enjoyable as the first in the series – at least for me.
This book is about Henry, Hudson's brother, who we both met in the previous book.
Meeting already known characters again and getting to know them better is always a joy for me.
And it was well done here. All of them played very important roles and enriched the story.
Let me tell you, Henry is such a wonderful, caring and loving person. Kind-hearted and always willing to lend a helping hand he is just a big softy. He may seem a bit grumpy but in truth he's simply a bit lonely and needs to find 'his person'.
How wonderful that he did just that in Jack who had an even less than subpar childhood.
And how lucky that Jack was just right for Henry, too.
I think I fell in love with both of them very fast.
So it was no wonder I was rooting for them. I loved the delicious slow burn between those two, first developing a friendship and then finding in each other the love of their lives.
I loved seeing Jack coming into himself. Watching him finding his self-esteem and accepting his own worth, making friends, meeting people in his life that loved and appreciated him even going so far as finding some kind of 'family' was so so satisfying!
That he was able to make his own career and contribute to the business was the chefs kiss so to speak.
Skilful and solid writing as well as an easy to follow along story with really likeable characters made this an entertaining and engaging read.
So I can say I definitely enjoyed this book.
I can't wait for the next book about Casey Joe. I'm curious what A.D. Ellis has in store for us regarding Hudson's and Henry's father.
I have received a complimentary copy but this is my honest and willingly given opinion
March 31, 2025
This is the second book in the Men of Haven Grove series and it can be enjoyed as a standalone read. This is the story of Jackson Garner and Henry Riggs. Jack arrives in Haven Grove as it is the farthest he could get away from his home for the least money. Quickly packing up some clothes, grabbed his money and ran away from his uncle that raised him when him mom died. For years Jack put up the physical and mental abuse. Then he overhears something he shouldn't, and off he runs. Luckily for him Haven Grove is a friendly and welcoming town. Jack and Henry first meet when Jack pops into the Riggs Family Roadhouse for lunch. There is a spark but no time for it to grow before Jack leaves. Then deciding to live rough while he tries to find a job and then a place to live, Jack makes a great decision. He camps out behind the restaurant. Henry is a big gruff man with a marshmallow center. He has grown up helping people. So when he figures out someone is sleeping out back, Henry begins leaving leftover food in the booth, along with blankets and pillows. Then Jack and Henry slowly begin a friendship without Henry knowing who it is. The two also meet in the restaurant and a slow friendship grows. This is their story. I really enjoyed this book. It is well written and easy to read. I loved how kind and patient Henry was with Jack. It will break your heart when you learn all of Jack's back story. It was nice how all of Henry's family became a found family for Jack. Nobody has needed it more. And of course, evil never stays buried so there are some serious bumps in the road for the two of them. I really loved 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.
April 11, 2025
“Sorry about that,” I started, but stopped midsentence when he turned the most gorgeous blue eyes my way. Ten seconds earlier, I would have told you blue eyes were blue eyes. Maybe there was a difference between dark blue and light blue, but nothing more. Looking into this guy’s eyes, I suddenly realized I’d missed out on all the ways to describe blue... I nearly swallowed my tongue, but I cleared my throat and tried again... The man smiled.
Holy.
If I thought I’d nearly choked on my own tongue over his eyes, the smile would be what knocked me on my aas.'
I really enjoyed this book. Hurt/comfort is one of my favorite tropes, so I was drawn in immediately. I loved both Henry and Jack. Henry's first sight reaction to Jack made my heart warm it was so sweet. It was soon clear to see Henry was a really good-hearted person by how he treated those around him. I loved the banter between the two. They were just adorable together.
"Converting you to the peachy side is payment enough.”
It was both heartwarming and said to see things through Jack's eyes, but I loved his journey and how he finally came into himself. And fell in love with another beautiful soul. These two deserve the absolute best.
'But then I met Henry Riggs.
Henry offered me kindness and generosity— a complete stranger, yet he took care of me better and more genuinely than anyone in nearly twenty years. Henry kept me safe and protected— although, he didn’t know that part yet.
I’d spent too many years just going through the motions of life based on what others wanted instead of living for me.
No. If I stayed, it would be because of more than just Henry.
But that didn’t stop me from thinking about making this little town my home.'
Would love to hear this in audio someday! 5 stars
Holy.
If I thought I’d nearly choked on my own tongue over his eyes, the smile would be what knocked me on my aas.'
I really enjoyed this book. Hurt/comfort is one of my favorite tropes, so I was drawn in immediately. I loved both Henry and Jack. Henry's first sight reaction to Jack made my heart warm it was so sweet. It was soon clear to see Henry was a really good-hearted person by how he treated those around him. I loved the banter between the two. They were just adorable together.
"Converting you to the peachy side is payment enough.”
It was both heartwarming and said to see things through Jack's eyes, but I loved his journey and how he finally came into himself. And fell in love with another beautiful soul. These two deserve the absolute best.
'But then I met Henry Riggs.
Henry offered me kindness and generosity— a complete stranger, yet he took care of me better and more genuinely than anyone in nearly twenty years. Henry kept me safe and protected— although, he didn’t know that part yet.
I’d spent too many years just going through the motions of life based on what others wanted instead of living for me.
No. If I stayed, it would be because of more than just Henry.
But that didn’t stop me from thinking about making this little town my home.'
Would love to hear this in audio someday! 5 stars
March 24, 2025
On the run from an abusive family situation, Jackson Garner lands in Haven Grove with his wits, some clothes, and not much money – or a plan. But he finds the Riggs Family Roadhouse, where he can get a cheap lunch – and sleep in the discarded booth located out back. When he figures out someone is sleeping out back, Henry Riggs begins leaving leftover food in the booth, even including a tarp one night when rain is predicted.
I found the surrounding material about the Riggs family interesting, particularly the family’s various businesses in the Midwestern town – a peach orchard, grocery store, and the Roadhouse. The “peach challenge” meal Henry provides for Jackson to learn that fresh peaches are better than canned was a lot of fun. It did leave me wondering, though, if peaches really do grow in the Midwest, as I currently live in South Carolina just an hour’s drive away from The Peach State (Georgia). A little online searching revealed that peaches do grow in Indiana, so I learned something!
Jackson and Henry slowly move toward a romantic relationship, with a lot of slow burn sweetness. They also go into business together. Eventually Jackson’s family find him, and the plot takes a sharp turn to reveal… Well, you’ll just have to read the book. It’s a sweet romance with surprises and humor.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found the surrounding material about the Riggs family interesting, particularly the family’s various businesses in the Midwestern town – a peach orchard, grocery store, and the Roadhouse. The “peach challenge” meal Henry provides for Jackson to learn that fresh peaches are better than canned was a lot of fun. It did leave me wondering, though, if peaches really do grow in the Midwest, as I currently live in South Carolina just an hour’s drive away from The Peach State (Georgia). A little online searching revealed that peaches do grow in Indiana, so I learned something!
Jackson and Henry slowly move toward a romantic relationship, with a lot of slow burn sweetness. They also go into business together. Eventually Jackson’s family find him, and the plot takes a sharp turn to reveal… Well, you’ll just have to read the book. It’s a sweet romance with surprises and humor.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 12, 2025
Cake & Cocktails is a standalone contemporary romance by AD Ellis, and is the second book of The Men of Haven Grove series. This is a standalone MM romance, however, there is some cross over connections with the previous book in the series. Our grumpy mid-30s bar owner, Henry, is the brother of one of the MCs in book one.
Henry is one grumpy teddy bear. I love him. He is totally sweet, but can come across as a bit surly, probably a consequence of the hours that he works, running a small town bar where peaches are town's biggest industry. Jack is young, barely in his 20s, and he has had to flee the family that refuses to accept his sexuality. Ending up in Haven Grove was never intentional, same with getting to know Henry, but the two just seem to click.
Henry and Jack have a sweet and gentle connection, though their chemistry together is also intense. Jack has a lot of healing, and Henry and his family help jump start the process. Jack has the freedom to get to know himself once more, but he also gets the opportunity to give his baking skills a test.
I'm really hoping that Henry's dad gets a HEA of his own. The guy deserves it, especially now that his sons are grown up and have found their own HEA with the partner of their dreams. I'm totally loving this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Henry is one grumpy teddy bear. I love him. He is totally sweet, but can come across as a bit surly, probably a consequence of the hours that he works, running a small town bar where peaches are town's biggest industry. Jack is young, barely in his 20s, and he has had to flee the family that refuses to accept his sexuality. Ending up in Haven Grove was never intentional, same with getting to know Henry, but the two just seem to click.
Henry and Jack have a sweet and gentle connection, though their chemistry together is also intense. Jack has a lot of healing, and Henry and his family help jump start the process. Jack has the freedom to get to know himself once more, but he also gets the opportunity to give his baking skills a test.
I'm really hoping that Henry's dad gets a HEA of his own. The guy deserves it, especially now that his sons are grown up and have found their own HEA with the partner of their dreams. I'm totally loving this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2025
I really like this second book in the Haven Grove series. The start overlaps somewhere with events described in the first book (Hudson and Lance) but it soon becomes its own.
Jack run away, is trying to find a new life for himself and Haven Grove seems to be the ideal place. While Henry is drawn to the man suddenly being at the pub on a regular basis, he is not connecting the dots to the person he has sleeping rough on his premises.
Henry is starting to hope for love as he sees how his brother was able to let go of the past and wants a chance for himself.
Their romance is a great slow burn, there is some demi-sexuality aspect to it, and I love how these two discover their attraction and chemistry without jumping straight into bed.
Jack's journey to make something out of himself with partnering his baking dream with Henry is lovely to read, you can see how he is coming out of his shell and gets more and more confident.
There is some drama with Jack's family, this feels a bit as a add-on, it doesn't really bring a lot but it doesn't hurt the story.
I love how Casey Joe, a character I wasn't fond of in the first book, really grew on me. He also seems to have realised that change is needed and he "adopts" Jack and has a second chance making this family work. I can't wait for his story, he needs his HEA as well.
Jack run away, is trying to find a new life for himself and Haven Grove seems to be the ideal place. While Henry is drawn to the man suddenly being at the pub on a regular basis, he is not connecting the dots to the person he has sleeping rough on his premises.
Henry is starting to hope for love as he sees how his brother was able to let go of the past and wants a chance for himself.
Their romance is a great slow burn, there is some demi-sexuality aspect to it, and I love how these two discover their attraction and chemistry without jumping straight into bed.
Jack's journey to make something out of himself with partnering his baking dream with Henry is lovely to read, you can see how he is coming out of his shell and gets more and more confident.
There is some drama with Jack's family, this feels a bit as a add-on, it doesn't really bring a lot but it doesn't hurt the story.
I love how Casey Joe, a character I wasn't fond of in the first book, really grew on me. He also seems to have realised that change is needed and he "adopts" Jack and has a second chance making this family work. I can't wait for his story, he needs his HEA as well.
March 28, 2025
Who takes care of you?
Henry is the older brother of Hudson, whom we met in book 1. Henry struggles with the absence of his mother, but chooses not to engage or start a relationship. He has a heart of gold and a protective streak, and wants to make sure all in his life feels cherished and appreciated. That is, until he meets Jack. Jack is new to Haven Grove, which isn't usual, so he stands out to Henry, little does he know they have a connection before they meet. When Henry begins to learn about the younger man, he feels like he cannot let him go.
Things move pretty quickly in this story when it comes to the relationship between Henry and Jack. While you could chalk it up to "when you know, you know," I truly believe that, as neither of these men had a true and deep relationship with another person outside of their direct circle that it was easy to slip into such a seamless personal relationship. I do appreciate how they were able to explore each other, as neither has much experience. It helps to make their time more authentic.
Now they are not without some angst, and the result is well deserved.
Now, I need someone to send a memo to all liquor licensed establishments to enact cake and cocktails immediately because come on! What are we doing without it?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Henry is the older brother of Hudson, whom we met in book 1. Henry struggles with the absence of his mother, but chooses not to engage or start a relationship. He has a heart of gold and a protective streak, and wants to make sure all in his life feels cherished and appreciated. That is, until he meets Jack. Jack is new to Haven Grove, which isn't usual, so he stands out to Henry, little does he know they have a connection before they meet. When Henry begins to learn about the younger man, he feels like he cannot let him go.
Things move pretty quickly in this story when it comes to the relationship between Henry and Jack. While you could chalk it up to "when you know, you know," I truly believe that, as neither of these men had a true and deep relationship with another person outside of their direct circle that it was easy to slip into such a seamless personal relationship. I do appreciate how they were able to explore each other, as neither has much experience. It helps to make their time more authentic.
Now they are not without some angst, and the result is well deserved.
Now, I need someone to send a memo to all liquor licensed establishments to enact cake and cocktails immediately because come on! What are we doing without it?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2025
If you have read Peaches and Cream, you will recognise Henry as Hudson's older brother who runs the Riggs Family Roadhouse.
This was a slower pace to Peaches and Cream as Henry and Jack forge a connection as they get to know each other. Jack brought out Henry's natural caretaking skills and whilst Henry couldn't pin down what it was about Jack he was instantly drawn to him. Hearing Jack's story on why he ended up in Haven Grove, you wanted Jack to get all the love he could and having an instantly made found family really built up his confidence. The encouragement Henry gave Jack to hone his baking skills and whilst it was a good business move, showed just how much faith Henry had in Jack. Whilst Jack had an innocence about him, his cute mix up of words was adorable and I for one love the idea of the bees
There were the funny one liners that I expected since I have read Peaches and Cream and it was good to read some of the scenes in that book from Henry's perspective. Like other small town stories there are the usual busy bodies who got their just deserve and when things took an unexpected turn every thing had to be put on hold till I finished this book.
More was learnt about Casey Joe and his actions towards Jack had me liking him even more and I cannot wait for his story.
This was a slower pace to Peaches and Cream as Henry and Jack forge a connection as they get to know each other. Jack brought out Henry's natural caretaking skills and whilst Henry couldn't pin down what it was about Jack he was instantly drawn to him. Hearing Jack's story on why he ended up in Haven Grove, you wanted Jack to get all the love he could and having an instantly made found family really built up his confidence. The encouragement Henry gave Jack to hone his baking skills and whilst it was a good business move, showed just how much faith Henry had in Jack. Whilst Jack had an innocence about him, his cute mix up of words was adorable and I for one love the idea of the bees
There were the funny one liners that I expected since I have read Peaches and Cream and it was good to read some of the scenes in that book from Henry's perspective. Like other small town stories there are the usual busy bodies who got their just deserve and when things took an unexpected turn every thing had to be put on hold till I finished this book.
More was learnt about Casey Joe and his actions towards Jack had me liking him even more and I cannot wait for his story.
March 16, 2025
Cake & Cocktails is the second book in The Men of Haven Grove Series but can also be read as a standalone.
Henry is the owner of Riggs Family Roadhouse - a bar located in a small town called Haven Grove. His family also owns the local Peach Orchard. Henry is known to be a bit of a grump and mainly sticks socializing with his family - his father Casey Joe, younger brother Hudson and their father’s friends Lance.
Jack is new to Haven Grove. After leaving the city Jack finds himself in Haven Grove. When Jack and Henry’s path cross and Jack’s passion for baking is discovered the Cake & Cocktails is opened.
The relationship that emerges between Henry and Jack is just so sweet. Henry shows his protective teddy bear side. The Riggs family real take Jack under their wing and welcome him into their family. The beautiful relationship that develops between Casey Joe and Jack is so heart warming, they develop a great father-son relationship.
This book was very well thought out and the characters really relatable. The side characters also really add another layer to the story. I really enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to read the next book
Highly recommend this book!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Henry is the owner of Riggs Family Roadhouse - a bar located in a small town called Haven Grove. His family also owns the local Peach Orchard. Henry is known to be a bit of a grump and mainly sticks socializing with his family - his father Casey Joe, younger brother Hudson and their father’s friends Lance.
Jack is new to Haven Grove. After leaving the city Jack finds himself in Haven Grove. When Jack and Henry’s path cross and Jack’s passion for baking is discovered the Cake & Cocktails is opened.
The relationship that emerges between Henry and Jack is just so sweet. Henry shows his protective teddy bear side. The Riggs family real take Jack under their wing and welcome him into their family. The beautiful relationship that develops between Casey Joe and Jack is so heart warming, they develop a great father-son relationship.
This book was very well thought out and the characters really relatable. The side characters also really add another layer to the story. I really enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to read the next book
Highly recommend this book!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2025
Cake & Cocktails is a warm, tender, and irresistibly steamy M/M age-gap romance that blends emotional healing with small-town charm. A.D. Ellis delivers a heartfelt story featuring a gruff, soft-hearted bar owner and a sweet, spirited baker trying to find a place to call home.
Henry is the ultimate grumpy-but-loveable protector—content in his routine and wary of letting anyone in. But when Jack, a runaway with a painful past and a heart full of hope, lands in Haven Grove, Henry can’t help but open his door—and his heart.
Jack’s journey from survival to self-worth is beautifully written, and the slow-burn romance that builds between him and Henry is full of mutual care, stolen glances, and delicious tension. Their connection feels organic, healing, and genuinely romantic, with just the right amount of spice to warm your heart (and your Kindle).
With found family themes, humor, and plenty of heart, Cake & Cocktails is as comforting as its title suggests. A perfect cozy read for fans of age-gap romance, grumpy/sunshine dynamics, and happily ever afters in small towns that feel like home.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Henry is the ultimate grumpy-but-loveable protector—content in his routine and wary of letting anyone in. But when Jack, a runaway with a painful past and a heart full of hope, lands in Haven Grove, Henry can’t help but open his door—and his heart.
Jack’s journey from survival to self-worth is beautifully written, and the slow-burn romance that builds between him and Henry is full of mutual care, stolen glances, and delicious tension. Their connection feels organic, healing, and genuinely romantic, with just the right amount of spice to warm your heart (and your Kindle).
With found family themes, humor, and plenty of heart, Cake & Cocktails is as comforting as its title suggests. A perfect cozy read for fans of age-gap romance, grumpy/sunshine dynamics, and happily ever afters in small towns that feel like home.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2025
A SWEET AGE GAP SMALL TOWN ROMANCE!💕
In the second book of the series we see the sweet, protective, kind teddy bear like owner of the Riggs Family Roadhouse and older brother of Hayden- Henry Riggs find his well deserved happiness!
“Sometimes, someone comes into your life, so unexpectedly, takes your heart by surprise and changes your life forever.” ~ Unknown
Jackson Garner left his home to find a safe haven after being reared since the tender age of six by his cruel uncle and found friendship,family, trust and love in Haven Grove unexpectedly with the Riggs family!
“A friendship built on trust, laughter, and genuine caring that meant as much, if not more than, the sexual relationship.”
I loved how their friendship started and how it blossomed into something more with many surprising revelations and interests with these two amazing characters!
I loved the found family aspect and how close Hayden and Lance and Casey Joe became with Jackson and Henry…
I look forward to Casey Joe finding his true happiness next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In the second book of the series we see the sweet, protective, kind teddy bear like owner of the Riggs Family Roadhouse and older brother of Hayden- Henry Riggs find his well deserved happiness!
“Sometimes, someone comes into your life, so unexpectedly, takes your heart by surprise and changes your life forever.” ~ Unknown
Jackson Garner left his home to find a safe haven after being reared since the tender age of six by his cruel uncle and found friendship,family, trust and love in Haven Grove unexpectedly with the Riggs family!
“A friendship built on trust, laughter, and genuine caring that meant as much, if not more than, the sexual relationship.”
I loved how their friendship started and how it blossomed into something more with many surprising revelations and interests with these two amazing characters!
I loved the found family aspect and how close Hayden and Lance and Casey Joe became with Jackson and Henry…
I look forward to Casey Joe finding his true happiness next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2025
I want to start by saying I have read every single one of the LGBTQIA titles by this author and have enjoyed every single one of them. I even have the name of one of their books on my arm in my MM inspired book tattoo. I think that one will forever be my favorite A.d. Ellis standalone. But Cakes and Cocktails helped the Haven Grove series steal the favorite series spot from one of her other lovable groups of men from back in the day.
Henry is a natural caregiver. Always making sure his family and friends are alright and taken care of but who is there to take care of Henry?
Jack is searching for a new place to call home when he stumbles upon Haven Grove and the owner of the Roadhouse, a brooding, sexy bear of a man named Henry Riggs.
Henry discovers someone may be eating out of the dumpster and possibly living behind his business. He starts to leave food and bedding supplies for the stranger and eventually gets him to agree to stay on Henry's couch.
This is book #2 in The Men of Haven Grove series. Its been fun getting to know this family and their friends. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Henry is a natural caregiver. Always making sure his family and friends are alright and taken care of but who is there to take care of Henry?
Jack is searching for a new place to call home when he stumbles upon Haven Grove and the owner of the Roadhouse, a brooding, sexy bear of a man named Henry Riggs.
Henry discovers someone may be eating out of the dumpster and possibly living behind his business. He starts to leave food and bedding supplies for the stranger and eventually gets him to agree to stay on Henry's couch.
This is book #2 in The Men of Haven Grove series. Its been fun getting to know this family and their friends. I'm looking forward to the next book.
March 26, 2025
This is a heartfelt and steamy romance about finding love and healing in unexpected places. Henry, a grumpy yet caring bar owner, lives a content but solitary life in Haven Grove. When Jack, a young baker fleeing a troubled past, arrives in town, Henry feels compelled to help him rebuild his life. However, their growing connection begins to spark more than just friendship. As Jack finds solace in the town and Henry’s kindness, the two must navigate their individual scars and uncertainties to create their own recipe for happiness and love. It's a story of acceptance, hope, and the pursuit of a forever family.
I loved this story which started with kindness by Henry towards Jack which later turned into love. I loved the family dynamic that Jack was included in after he moved in with Henry. I loved the concept of cake and cocktails. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story which started with kindness by Henry towards Jack which later turned into love. I loved the family dynamic that Jack was included in after he moved in with Henry. I loved the concept of cake and cocktails. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2025
4
'The men of Haven.Grove' series by A.D. Ellis is set in a small town and thus far has two books with an MM age gap romance & found family at its centre.
This one to me has a hurt comfort/ caregiver vibe. Henry is the posterboy for a caregiver. Making sure everyone is well and has what they need. He has done that since being a child.
Jack is the man who appears in Haven Grove and slowly comes out of his shell after being mistreated for many years, untill he fled his old home life and ended up on Henry his property.
Henry offers Jack a safe place as a friend and over the weeks the grow mlre connected and involved.
Beside the mandatory town bigot & some repetitve parts, which I did not like.
We find out why Jack fled, the story is well written and flows well. And yes all the bad huys get what they are due. And these men find their happily together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'The men of Haven.Grove' series by A.D. Ellis is set in a small town and thus far has two books with an MM age gap romance & found family at its centre.
This one to me has a hurt comfort/ caregiver vibe. Henry is the posterboy for a caregiver. Making sure everyone is well and has what they need. He has done that since being a child.
Jack is the man who appears in Haven Grove and slowly comes out of his shell after being mistreated for many years, untill he fled his old home life and ended up on Henry his property.
Henry offers Jack a safe place as a friend and over the weeks the grow mlre connected and involved.
Beside the mandatory town bigot & some repetitve parts, which I did not like.
We find out why Jack fled, the story is well written and flows well. And yes all the bad huys get what they are due. And these men find their happily together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2025
Henry & Jack
The beginning premise of this story was rough, because Jack's life coming into town is so difficult and challenging. That said, even as rough as he has it starting out, it was so inspirational to see him overcome those challenges without really trying to use anyone. Learning about Jack's past with his family also shows how much more he had to overcome, even before his additional challenges in Haven Grove.
Jack's relationship with Henry develops so naturally because their initial interactions were based on friendly interest and inspiration, giving them that stronger base of friendship and liking one another, before they moved into the more physical aspects of their relationship.
One extra relationship that I loved in this found family story is Jack & Casey Joe. It's incredibly sweet how much Henry's dad dotes on Jack and spends real, quality time with him like Jack has always needed. Even Henry spends moments acknowledging the importance of their relationship, no matter if it means he misses out on some of his time with Jack.
I loved Cake & Cocktails! Admittedly, I need to go back and read book one for Lance & Hudson's story, but that's not a hardship. 🙃 I'm excited to see how A.D. Ellis gifts us with the next exciting story in this series. I know I'm already looking forward to it. ❤️
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
The beginning premise of this story was rough, because Jack's life coming into town is so difficult and challenging. That said, even as rough as he has it starting out, it was so inspirational to see him overcome those challenges without really trying to use anyone. Learning about Jack's past with his family also shows how much more he had to overcome, even before his additional challenges in Haven Grove.
Jack's relationship with Henry develops so naturally because their initial interactions were based on friendly interest and inspiration, giving them that stronger base of friendship and liking one another, before they moved into the more physical aspects of their relationship.
One extra relationship that I loved in this found family story is Jack & Casey Joe. It's incredibly sweet how much Henry's dad dotes on Jack and spends real, quality time with him like Jack has always needed. Even Henry spends moments acknowledging the importance of their relationship, no matter if it means he misses out on some of his time with Jack.
I loved Cake & Cocktails! Admittedly, I need to go back and read book one for Lance & Hudson's story, but that's not a hardship. 🙃 I'm excited to see how A.D. Ellis gifts us with the next exciting story in this series. I know I'm already looking forward to it. ❤️
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
March 26, 2025
Rich, amazing cake and delicious cocktails… it is a combination you didn’t know you needed in your life.
The same seemed to be true about Henry and Jack.
Henry owns and operates the Roadhouse. A stranger becomes a regular and then becomes even more.
Jack is running away from tragic and troubling past. He finds what he is looking for in Haven Grove and in his blooming friendship with Henry. That friendship graduates into a relationship both men thrive in.
Jack finds a family who love and accept him with his quirks and innocence.
There is just a hint of drama
We get to visit Hudson and Lance as well. Casey Joe starts to become a more relevant character as we lead up to book 3
This is a well written book that keeps you engaged throughout the book. It is entertaining and flows really well. I am looking forward to finding out what kind of man Casey Joe becomes.
The same seemed to be true about Henry and Jack.
Henry owns and operates the Roadhouse. A stranger becomes a regular and then becomes even more.
Jack is running away from tragic and troubling past. He finds what he is looking for in Haven Grove and in his blooming friendship with Henry. That friendship graduates into a relationship both men thrive in.
Jack finds a family who love and accept him with his quirks and innocence.
There is just a hint of drama
We get to visit Hudson and Lance as well. Casey Joe starts to become a more relevant character as we lead up to book 3
This is a well written book that keeps you engaged throughout the book. It is entertaining and flows really well. I am looking forward to finding out what kind of man Casey Joe becomes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2025
Henry and Jack . . .
Henry Riggs knows about his grumpy reputation, but he’s actually a very caring person. He is noticing that something, or now he believes it is someone, is going through the trash bin, making a mess of things. When a stranger comes into the Roadhouse, Henry knows he has had a rough time of it and wants to make sure he is taken care of. As for the stranger, Jackson Garner (“Jack”), he has been forced to run from a horrible home life that many would not have survived. Luckily there is enough love in the small town of Haven Grove to provide friendships to help Jack heal. And Henry makes it his special mission to make sure Jack is fed and treated well. Is Jack beginning to trust that he is in the right place and ready to call it “home”? And will he and Henry find the HEA that both need in their lives?
Henry Riggs knows about his grumpy reputation, but he’s actually a very caring person. He is noticing that something, or now he believes it is someone, is going through the trash bin, making a mess of things. When a stranger comes into the Roadhouse, Henry knows he has had a rough time of it and wants to make sure he is taken care of. As for the stranger, Jackson Garner (“Jack”), he has been forced to run from a horrible home life that many would not have survived. Luckily there is enough love in the small town of Haven Grove to provide friendships to help Jack heal. And Henry makes it his special mission to make sure Jack is fed and treated well. Is Jack beginning to trust that he is in the right place and ready to call it “home”? And will he and Henry find the HEA that both need in their lives?
March 23, 2025
Welcome back to Haven Grove!
Meet Henry Riggs, the owner of the Riggs Family Roadhouse. Grumpy on the outside, but a big teddy bear to those who know him. Henry has lived his life perfectly content being alone… that is, until Jack showed up. Jack is trying desperately to put as much space between him and his past as possible… which is how he ended up in Haven Grove and at the Roadhouse.
If you love a good grumpy/sunshine trope, then this is the book for you. Now, time for some out of context quotes:
“Peaches wearing tiny fur coats and bubble-butt bubble bees.”
“Someone he’s dating? What? Who’s he dating? Oh. Me. He’s dating me.”
Meet Henry Riggs, the owner of the Riggs Family Roadhouse. Grumpy on the outside, but a big teddy bear to those who know him. Henry has lived his life perfectly content being alone… that is, until Jack showed up. Jack is trying desperately to put as much space between him and his past as possible… which is how he ended up in Haven Grove and at the Roadhouse.
If you love a good grumpy/sunshine trope, then this is the book for you. Now, time for some out of context quotes:
“Peaches wearing tiny fur coats and bubble-butt bubble bees.”
“Someone he’s dating? What? Who’s he dating? Oh. Me. He’s dating me.”
March 28, 2025
I found Henry and Jack's story to be a fantastic read. I was captivated from beginning to the last page. Small town vibes, slow build of their relationship, found family, intense action scenes that will have your heart beating fast, so glad Jack building better relationships after his awful past hurts...loved the bubble bees term. Really enduring and adds to Jack's charm and character even more. Loved their chemistry and passion for one another. Great characters engaging dialogue, amazing storyline and will hold you captivated till that ending. 😉.
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 31, 2025
I think this series has some great characters and the author develops them brilliantly to give us such an amazing background and really endear them to us. Loved the first book and this follows by giving us Henry's story. Henry is such a gentle soul but when he meets Jack things build so beautifully with plenty of caring and humourous moments. However things arent as perfect and smooth as Jacks abusive family come back into the picture! A brilliant relationship development that had me completely captivated. Loved it!.
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 17, 2025
Loved this one so much! It’s the perfect blend of sweet, steamy, and heartwarming. Henry is the ultimate grumpy teddy bear—protective, rough around the edges, but with such a soft heart. And Jack? Absolutely precious. His journey from scared and uncertain to finding love and belonging was beautiful to watch.
The age-gap dynamic was handled with care, and their chemistry felt natural and full of warmth. There’s found family, comfort, healing, and just the right amount of spice. A cozy, feel-good romance that left me smiling.
Can’t wait to read more from Haven Grove!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The age-gap dynamic was handled with care, and their chemistry felt natural and full of warmth. There’s found family, comfort, healing, and just the right amount of spice. A cozy, feel-good romance that left me smiling.
Can’t wait to read more from Haven Grove!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2026
Adorable HEA!
Henry and Jack are perfect! After reading about Henry feeding a mysterious stranger in the first book I was sooo excited to read this one and it did not disappoint. These two are so so sweet and I am obsessed with them. Henry is a protector through and through and I love how he gives Jack the experiences that he never got and he’s so happy seeing Jack experience new things. And Jack is just the sweetest character ever, I love his passion for cakes and lemon drops. This family is so wonderful and I’m glad that they’re all healing and moving on while finding their happily ever afters! I can’t wait to read about Casey Joe
Henry and Jack are perfect! After reading about Henry feeding a mysterious stranger in the first book I was sooo excited to read this one and it did not disappoint. These two are so so sweet and I am obsessed with them. Henry is a protector through and through and I love how he gives Jack the experiences that he never got and he’s so happy seeing Jack experience new things. And Jack is just the sweetest character ever, I love his passion for cakes and lemon drops. This family is so wonderful and I’m glad that they’re all healing and moving on while finding their happily ever afters! I can’t wait to read about Casey Joe
March 6, 2025
I loved the easy feel of Henry and Jack's romance. I saw lonely grump and that is my kryptonite, but Henry was really just lonely in a way that he needed a real true love partner in life. Henry had a wonderful family and just the right number of genuine friends. It was wonderful to see them all rally around Jack too. Jack needed that family feel along with the love he got from Henry. This can totally be read as a standalone romance, but as is my thing I love reading these as a series with reoccurring people and places that grow on me.
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