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Bridges and Bitters #3
Speed Rail: Bridges and Bitters, Book 3
My life revolves around just one my daughter. I don’t have the time or energy for anything else—not my foolish dream of an acting career and definitely not the annoying woman who opened a gym in the warehouse behind my garage.
Piper’s a menace to society, between her loud music, hurling weights around like a shot putter, and her building that is definitely not up to code.
Unfortunately, my kid thinks she’s the best thing since unlimited screen-time. It’s getting harder to avoid Piper when my daughter keeps going over there to ask about hair braids and sports teams.
Maybe I took things too far when I called the building inspector on Piper, but she can’t keep bringing clients into that fire hazard of a gym. And I can’t have her behind my house all the time, clad in spandex and making me think about things I have no business wishing for.
I’m done with relationships. Whatever I feel for Piper is passing. If I drive her away, I can get back to raising my daughter in peace. Anything else is just a pipe dream…
Speed Rail is a smoldering single-dad romance, the third stand-alone installment of the Bridges and Bitters series. If you love found family, hilarious antics and off-the-charts heat, you'll devour these sexy romantic comedies.
Piper’s a menace to society, between her loud music, hurling weights around like a shot putter, and her building that is definitely not up to code.
Unfortunately, my kid thinks she’s the best thing since unlimited screen-time. It’s getting harder to avoid Piper when my daughter keeps going over there to ask about hair braids and sports teams.
Maybe I took things too far when I called the building inspector on Piper, but she can’t keep bringing clients into that fire hazard of a gym. And I can’t have her behind my house all the time, clad in spandex and making me think about things I have no business wishing for.
I’m done with relationships. Whatever I feel for Piper is passing. If I drive her away, I can get back to raising my daughter in peace. Anything else is just a pipe dream…
Speed Rail is a smoldering single-dad romance, the third stand-alone installment of the Bridges and Bitters series. If you love found family, hilarious antics and off-the-charts heat, you'll devour these sexy romantic comedies.
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Published January 11, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
May 22, 2025
Though the plot was interesting the connection between them felt somewhat flat
February 5, 2025
DNF @ chapter 6
I'm sorry. I'm probably not giving this a good enough chance. But when a book includes the line "What the actual…farts!” and refers to the new neighbour as the "neighbourhood menace" for opening her own gym, I just can't.
Maybe I've been spoilt with my recent reads, but life is too short to read books you're not enjoying.
I'm sorry. I'm probably not giving this a good enough chance. But when a book includes the line "What the actual…farts!” and refers to the new neighbour as the "neighbourhood menace" for opening her own gym, I just can't.
Maybe I've been spoilt with my recent reads, but life is too short to read books you're not enjoying.
January 19, 2025
2.25 stars. This book was okay. I did finish it. But I skimmed the whole thing. It was pretty boring. Not super engaging.
I liked piper. She was nice and pleasant. She didn’t get mad over every stupid thing. I sort of liked cash. I liked that he wasn’t pleasant at first and then changed with her. But he also wasn’t really ever swoon worthy or anything. He wasn’t bad but was a bit bland over all.
Their romance was pretty meh. It mostly felt like it was focused on her life separately and then his life separately. And then they had a few encounters that were nothing special. They don’t really get to know eachother at all. Their romance felt superficial. They both kind of started to like eachother and then it went right into a sexual thing. The sexual encounters felt a little forced by the author. For some reason, maybe because I didn’t feel immersed in their relationship, when the sex came I didn’t feel the connection. It seemed out of place somehow. I did like how piper formed a relationship with cash’s daughter. That relationship felt natural and done better than the relationship with piper and cash haha.
Overall it was fine. Mostly it’s just about piper trying to start her business and all the mundane details that entails. And a single dad dealing with the everyday dad life juggling a job and fatherhood and the mundane details of making it all work day to day.
I liked piper. She was nice and pleasant. She didn’t get mad over every stupid thing. I sort of liked cash. I liked that he wasn’t pleasant at first and then changed with her. But he also wasn’t really ever swoon worthy or anything. He wasn’t bad but was a bit bland over all.
Their romance was pretty meh. It mostly felt like it was focused on her life separately and then his life separately. And then they had a few encounters that were nothing special. They don’t really get to know eachother at all. Their romance felt superficial. They both kind of started to like eachother and then it went right into a sexual thing. The sexual encounters felt a little forced by the author. For some reason, maybe because I didn’t feel immersed in their relationship, when the sex came I didn’t feel the connection. It seemed out of place somehow. I did like how piper formed a relationship with cash’s daughter. That relationship felt natural and done better than the relationship with piper and cash haha.
Overall it was fine. Mostly it’s just about piper trying to start her business and all the mundane details that entails. And a single dad dealing with the everyday dad life juggling a job and fatherhood and the mundane details of making it all work day to day.
February 23, 2023
TLDR Review:
Trigger Warning: Accurate
Main Characters: Great
Side Characters: Great
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Genre: Rom-Com
Tropes: Grumpy/Sunshine, Single Dad, Found family
Story Pacing: Medium Burn
POV: Dual First Person
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Misc: Stand-alone, Third Book in series
Full Review:
Many e-books start at chapter, skipping over potential content warnings. This book gives us the important warning that female mortality, and specifically pregnancy-related mortality, come up within the story. As a potential trigger for many people, I thought it was a considerate and important inclusion.
One minor fact that I appreciated was the matter-of-fact way that we are told our characters are white. It shows this isn’t necessarily the default, and doesn’t use glorifying language like porcelain or alabaster skin or a snow-white complexion to introduce the fact. It is neutral, and allows space for diversity without implying preference or hierarchy.
Cash (MMC) is a single father to his elementary school-aged daughter (Ruby), whom he is raising alone after her mother passed. He wanted to get into acting, but necessity forced him into being an electrician, pursuing voice acting as a self-proclaimed side gig. When the routine that he has clung to is interrupted, he lashes out, at times potentially overreacting in an effort to regain some sense of control.
Piper (FMC) is a fitness instructor and is struggling to start her own CrossFit gym. It is all early days of big dreams, low budget, and loans. Piper is overwhelmed by her new venture, but is trying her best and putting on a positive, go-getter attitude.
Piper is surrounded by supportive female friends. She has her clients, a group of moms who are trying to carve out a piece of their lives for health and wellness, and a group of bad-ass boss ladies who keep her going when she wants to give up. These friends add depth, bringing more energy and personality to the storytelling. This book was my introduction to the series, but her friends were so well written that I’ve already downloaded the first two so I can experience more of these characters and this world. While Cash doesn’t start with a lot of friends, he does slowly open up to those around him as he discovers he has basically been in survival mode since his daughter was born.
While this book does have explicit content, it does not reach the level of spice that would make you shy away from telling your friends and family members about this book. The spice enriches the story and feels natural, without being overly graphic and doesn’t include the sometimes accidentally hilarious (or disgusting) metaphors for body parts. Overall, it is a light hearted rom-com that still feels based in reality. I enjoyed reading this book, and in another season, it would be a great pool read.
Trigger Warning: Accurate
Main Characters: Great
Side Characters: Great
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Genre: Rom-Com
Tropes: Grumpy/Sunshine, Single Dad, Found family
Story Pacing: Medium Burn
POV: Dual First Person
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Misc: Stand-alone, Third Book in series
Full Review:
Many e-books start at chapter, skipping over potential content warnings. This book gives us the important warning that female mortality, and specifically pregnancy-related mortality, come up within the story. As a potential trigger for many people, I thought it was a considerate and important inclusion.
One minor fact that I appreciated was the matter-of-fact way that we are told our characters are white. It shows this isn’t necessarily the default, and doesn’t use glorifying language like porcelain or alabaster skin or a snow-white complexion to introduce the fact. It is neutral, and allows space for diversity without implying preference or hierarchy.
Cash (MMC) is a single father to his elementary school-aged daughter (Ruby), whom he is raising alone after her mother passed. He wanted to get into acting, but necessity forced him into being an electrician, pursuing voice acting as a self-proclaimed side gig. When the routine that he has clung to is interrupted, he lashes out, at times potentially overreacting in an effort to regain some sense of control.
Piper (FMC) is a fitness instructor and is struggling to start her own CrossFit gym. It is all early days of big dreams, low budget, and loans. Piper is overwhelmed by her new venture, but is trying her best and putting on a positive, go-getter attitude.
Piper is surrounded by supportive female friends. She has her clients, a group of moms who are trying to carve out a piece of their lives for health and wellness, and a group of bad-ass boss ladies who keep her going when she wants to give up. These friends add depth, bringing more energy and personality to the storytelling. This book was my introduction to the series, but her friends were so well written that I’ve already downloaded the first two so I can experience more of these characters and this world. While Cash doesn’t start with a lot of friends, he does slowly open up to those around him as he discovers he has basically been in survival mode since his daughter was born.
While this book does have explicit content, it does not reach the level of spice that would make you shy away from telling your friends and family members about this book. The spice enriches the story and feels natural, without being overly graphic and doesn’t include the sometimes accidentally hilarious (or disgusting) metaphors for body parts. Overall, it is a light hearted rom-com that still feels based in reality. I enjoyed reading this book, and in another season, it would be a great pool read.
February 8, 2025
3.75 stars
August 5, 2024
4.5 Stars! If you love grumpy/sunshine, single-dad, found family romances, pick up Speed Rail. You won’t be disappointed!
Speed Rail is book 3 in the Bridges and Bitters series. Having loved books 1 and 2, I was excited to get into this book… and I was not disappointed.
At the start of the book, we meet our MMC, Cash. He is a single dad raising his elementary school-aged daughter (Ruby) after her mum passed away. Originally wanting to get into acting, he switched gears to help provide financial stability for his daughter and became an electrician, with him pursuing voice acting as a side gig. One morning whilst recording for a paid voice acting role, he is interrupted by very loud music coming from one of his neighbours. Upon investigating, he finds out our FMC, Piper, recently rented out the (previously empty) warehouse space across from him to open her gym. As he is very busy throughout the day, and can only complete his recordings for his side gig at that specific time, he lashes out at Piper and plans to sabotage her new business. Meanwhile, Piper is a fitness instructor and is struggling to start her own fitness gym. With so much going into starting a new business and also trying to create a safe space for her clients to work out in, the last thing she needs is someone getting in the way of that. Starting off on the wrong foot, there’s some tension, and many back-and-forth moments throughout the beginning of the book before these two can finally find themselves on the same page.
This book was such fun to read and get through. I loved seeing the tension and the banter the main characters had with each other. Although they started on the wrong course, and Cash tried to sabotage Piper’s business, he really redeemed himself. They had such great chemistry and the spice was on point 👌 as always.
As with the previous 2 books, one of my favourite parts of this series is the strong female support and the friendships that the women in the series have with each other. I also loved Piper’s goals of wanting to create a safe space for busy mums to exercise and keep fit, without all the toxicity that comes with it, and without judgment from others. And, I loved how her clients were also so supportive of Piper.
Narrated by Ehlen Valentine, Alastair Haynesbridge, as with the previous books, their narrated was well done. Such a perfect way to consume the story!
Thanks to the author, Lainey Davis, for providing me with an advanced audio review copy of this book. All opinions provided in this review are entirely my own.
Speed Rail is book 3 in the Bridges and Bitters series. Having loved books 1 and 2, I was excited to get into this book… and I was not disappointed.
At the start of the book, we meet our MMC, Cash. He is a single dad raising his elementary school-aged daughter (Ruby) after her mum passed away. Originally wanting to get into acting, he switched gears to help provide financial stability for his daughter and became an electrician, with him pursuing voice acting as a side gig. One morning whilst recording for a paid voice acting role, he is interrupted by very loud music coming from one of his neighbours. Upon investigating, he finds out our FMC, Piper, recently rented out the (previously empty) warehouse space across from him to open her gym. As he is very busy throughout the day, and can only complete his recordings for his side gig at that specific time, he lashes out at Piper and plans to sabotage her new business. Meanwhile, Piper is a fitness instructor and is struggling to start her own fitness gym. With so much going into starting a new business and also trying to create a safe space for her clients to work out in, the last thing she needs is someone getting in the way of that. Starting off on the wrong foot, there’s some tension, and many back-and-forth moments throughout the beginning of the book before these two can finally find themselves on the same page.
This book was such fun to read and get through. I loved seeing the tension and the banter the main characters had with each other. Although they started on the wrong course, and Cash tried to sabotage Piper’s business, he really redeemed himself. They had such great chemistry and the spice was on point 👌 as always.
As with the previous 2 books, one of my favourite parts of this series is the strong female support and the friendships that the women in the series have with each other. I also loved Piper’s goals of wanting to create a safe space for busy mums to exercise and keep fit, without all the toxicity that comes with it, and without judgment from others. And, I loved how her clients were also so supportive of Piper.
Narrated by Ehlen Valentine, Alastair Haynesbridge, as with the previous books, their narrated was well done. Such a perfect way to consume the story!
Thanks to the author, Lainey Davis, for providing me with an advanced audio review copy of this book. All opinions provided in this review are entirely my own.
September 11, 2024
Cash is a single dad. A grumpy, serious, hot, hot, hot man who loves his daughter more than anything in the world but worries constantly that something will go wrong. They need a plan and a routine to keep things on track, to focus on just the two of them and keep anything and anyone that might interfere and jeopardize that plan far away. And relationships, even casual dating? Nope, no time for that in his frazzled, busy schedule and it’s too dangerous. What if it doesn’t work out and Ruby gets hurt? Nope, nope, nope.
And then Piper and her annoying, actually infuriating, exercise class shows up in the warehouse behind Cash’s garage. The garage where Cash is trying to do voice work to make extra money. Piper is loud and argumentative and an instant menace, and who by the way is also sexy, gorgeous, exuberant and sweet to Ruby. So of course she must be forced out of there immediately.
Speed Rail is funny and sweet and heart-breaking at times, with big, cranky Cash practically running from Piper but then being pulled almost immediately back as if the attraction connects them like a rubber band would. Cash becomes Sasquatch and then Cash-quatch, and when Piper’s FOOF ladies and exercise clients decide to teach him a few lessons it’s roll on the floor, laugh out loud funny. Piper and Ruby’s instant connection warms your heart. And the what-if, could-be between Piper and Cash is smoldering. And you don’t want to miss Cash narrating Chloe’s sexy, steamy, spicy historical romance novels. As he thinks to himself, “The hero is supposed to have a gruff voice and he’s often short-tempered and abrupt when he talks to the heroine. Well, that won’t be too much of a stretch for me.”
This is the third book in author Lainey Davis’s Bridges & Bitters hilarious, touching, satisfying series. The series is so, so good. You don’t want to miss it. Thanks to the author for providing an advance listening copy. Once again, narrators Alastair Haynesbridge and Ehlen Valentine bring these new characters to life: perfect pitch, timing, emotion, it’s all perfect and makes for one terrific listen. I loved this book and recommend it without hesitation. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
And then Piper and her annoying, actually infuriating, exercise class shows up in the warehouse behind Cash’s garage. The garage where Cash is trying to do voice work to make extra money. Piper is loud and argumentative and an instant menace, and who by the way is also sexy, gorgeous, exuberant and sweet to Ruby. So of course she must be forced out of there immediately.
Speed Rail is funny and sweet and heart-breaking at times, with big, cranky Cash practically running from Piper but then being pulled almost immediately back as if the attraction connects them like a rubber band would. Cash becomes Sasquatch and then Cash-quatch, and when Piper’s FOOF ladies and exercise clients decide to teach him a few lessons it’s roll on the floor, laugh out loud funny. Piper and Ruby’s instant connection warms your heart. And the what-if, could-be between Piper and Cash is smoldering. And you don’t want to miss Cash narrating Chloe’s sexy, steamy, spicy historical romance novels. As he thinks to himself, “The hero is supposed to have a gruff voice and he’s often short-tempered and abrupt when he talks to the heroine. Well, that won’t be too much of a stretch for me.”
This is the third book in author Lainey Davis’s Bridges & Bitters hilarious, touching, satisfying series. The series is so, so good. You don’t want to miss it. Thanks to the author for providing an advance listening copy. Once again, narrators Alastair Haynesbridge and Ehlen Valentine bring these new characters to life: perfect pitch, timing, emotion, it’s all perfect and makes for one terrific listen. I loved this book and recommend it without hesitation. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
February 6, 2023
Single dad widower, becoming a voice-over actor to cover the extra bills his family electrician company doesn’t pay? Awesome trope compilation right there - but throw in grumpy/sunshine and neighbors? Yes, please - sign me up now!
Lainey Davis is a definite favourite, one-click author for me (especially her audiobooks), but whoa! This has to by far be my favourite of her books, and I totally love every single one I’ve read… so that’s definitely saying a lot! I cannot wait to come back and read this one again when the audio releases, or maybe I won’t even wait until then. It’s truly that great!
Cash is a single dad to 6 year old Ruby. He was a very young dad, and Ruby’s mom was lost to terrible circumstances in childbirth… he’s raised the adorable but precocious child on his own from day 1. He’s an electrician with his dad’s company, but in his spare time (aka 5am) he does voiceover work. One day, there’s suddenly a huge racket of noise in the alleyway, which turns out to be Piper, who just opened a new gym - with classes starting at 5am - making a ton of noise, pumping music, dropping weights and banging pipes, meaning no more quiet to do his extra work.
After a rivalry which includes calling the city inspector and shutting her gym down, Piper actually befriends little Ruby, helps Cash out in his time of childcare needs… and so they form a bit of a grumpy sunshine, rival neighbor vibe, helping each other in some ways, and she helps him get another voice work narrating gig, while watching Ruby and not teaching noisy classes at the time…
Reading the entire progression from enemies to friends to more was so much with this book - I loved every minute! Lainey Davis is such a brilliant author and I highly recommend everyone checks her out, especially the Bridges and Bitters series, but most importantly, Speed Rail!!
I received an advance review copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
Lainey Davis is a definite favourite, one-click author for me (especially her audiobooks), but whoa! This has to by far be my favourite of her books, and I totally love every single one I’ve read… so that’s definitely saying a lot! I cannot wait to come back and read this one again when the audio releases, or maybe I won’t even wait until then. It’s truly that great!
Cash is a single dad to 6 year old Ruby. He was a very young dad, and Ruby’s mom was lost to terrible circumstances in childbirth… he’s raised the adorable but precocious child on his own from day 1. He’s an electrician with his dad’s company, but in his spare time (aka 5am) he does voiceover work. One day, there’s suddenly a huge racket of noise in the alleyway, which turns out to be Piper, who just opened a new gym - with classes starting at 5am - making a ton of noise, pumping music, dropping weights and banging pipes, meaning no more quiet to do his extra work.
After a rivalry which includes calling the city inspector and shutting her gym down, Piper actually befriends little Ruby, helps Cash out in his time of childcare needs… and so they form a bit of a grumpy sunshine, rival neighbor vibe, helping each other in some ways, and she helps him get another voice work narrating gig, while watching Ruby and not teaching noisy classes at the time…
Reading the entire progression from enemies to friends to more was so much with this book - I loved every minute! Lainey Davis is such a brilliant author and I highly recommend everyone checks her out, especially the Bridges and Bitters series, but most importantly, Speed Rail!!
I received an advance review copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
September 17, 2024
Speed Rail
Bridges and Bitters, Book 3
By: Lainey Davis
Narrated by: Ehlen Valentine, Alastair Haynesbridge
Oh Lainey Davis! You keep pulling me into these books and holding my heart! This single dad has his issues. Being the best dad he can be, and putting his daughter first leaves little time for himself. This is leaving the electrician by day voice over actor by night quite grumpy. A loner, he is not happy when his new neighbor is happy and noisy! Piper is excited! Following her dream, she is going to open a gym for women, a place where she can give them good, healthy advice, a friendly atmosphere and some time for themselves. These two have many obstacles to overcome personally, maybe they could work them out together! This is a fabulous story of two people who are struggling, and find that they can raise each other up! I love the interaction, and the slow burn. I love Cash realizing there is more to life than work and being dad. I love the joy and enthusiasm Piper brings to her gym. And FOOF, the backbone of the women, having that group that has each other's backs it the highlight. Loved this one and look forward to Last Call!
Alastair Haynesbridge and Ehlen Valentine continue their narration and I am in love with this team. Their voices are pleasing to my ears! Haynesbridge is perfect as Cash. He is spot on with his frustration and feelings as Cash. Valentine is bubbly and vulnerable as Piper. She is emotionally charged with the perfect personality. I love these two and truly enjoyed this listen.
Bridges and Bitters, Book 3
By: Lainey Davis
Narrated by: Ehlen Valentine, Alastair Haynesbridge
Oh Lainey Davis! You keep pulling me into these books and holding my heart! This single dad has his issues. Being the best dad he can be, and putting his daughter first leaves little time for himself. This is leaving the electrician by day voice over actor by night quite grumpy. A loner, he is not happy when his new neighbor is happy and noisy! Piper is excited! Following her dream, she is going to open a gym for women, a place where she can give them good, healthy advice, a friendly atmosphere and some time for themselves. These two have many obstacles to overcome personally, maybe they could work them out together! This is a fabulous story of two people who are struggling, and find that they can raise each other up! I love the interaction, and the slow burn. I love Cash realizing there is more to life than work and being dad. I love the joy and enthusiasm Piper brings to her gym. And FOOF, the backbone of the women, having that group that has each other's backs it the highlight. Loved this one and look forward to Last Call!
Alastair Haynesbridge and Ehlen Valentine continue their narration and I am in love with this team. Their voices are pleasing to my ears! Haynesbridge is perfect as Cash. He is spot on with his frustration and feelings as Cash. Valentine is bubbly and vulnerable as Piper. She is emotionally charged with the perfect personality. I love these two and truly enjoyed this listen.
November 5, 2024
Spoilers ahead!
📖: 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
🎧: 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
🥵: 🌶️.5/5
Speed Rail is the 3rd book in the Bridges and Bitters series. It follows FOOF member and hopeful gym owner, Piper Conklin, and her new gym's neighbour and single dad, Cash Brennen. They get off to a bad start when Piper's noisy gym interrupts Cash's side hustle of voiceover work.
I really enjoyed this book! It covers some important topics, such as the physical and emotional wellbeing of mothers, as well as implying issues around female reproductive rights.
The characters were all really well rounded, and had clear motivations behind their actions. I thought Ruby was a really sweet addition of comic relief!
It felt like really poignant timing for the topic of reproductive rights. In the story, the mother of Cash's daughter (Heather) discovered she had a serious medical condition when she fell pregnant. The condition was seriously exacerbated by pregnancy, but they were living in a state which gave them no choices but to continue, and Heather lost her life during surgery to save their daughter. Whilst this is fiction, it is such a poignant example of what is happening beyond doubt in the US today.
The narration was performed again by Ehlen Valentine and Alastair Haynesbridge in dual POV style. All of their voices were great (besides maybe the unidentified accent of one guy in the epilogue!) and I enjoyed their performances.
Overall, a really good addition to the series!
📖: 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
🎧: 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
🥵: 🌶️.5/5
Speed Rail is the 3rd book in the Bridges and Bitters series. It follows FOOF member and hopeful gym owner, Piper Conklin, and her new gym's neighbour and single dad, Cash Brennen. They get off to a bad start when Piper's noisy gym interrupts Cash's side hustle of voiceover work.
I really enjoyed this book! It covers some important topics, such as the physical and emotional wellbeing of mothers, as well as implying issues around female reproductive rights.
The characters were all really well rounded, and had clear motivations behind their actions. I thought Ruby was a really sweet addition of comic relief!
It felt like really poignant timing for the topic of reproductive rights. In the story, the mother of Cash's daughter (Heather) discovered she had a serious medical condition when she fell pregnant. The condition was seriously exacerbated by pregnancy, but they were living in a state which gave them no choices but to continue, and Heather lost her life during surgery to save their daughter. Whilst this is fiction, it is such a poignant example of what is happening beyond doubt in the US today.
The narration was performed again by Ehlen Valentine and Alastair Haynesbridge in dual POV style. All of their voices were great (besides maybe the unidentified accent of one guy in the epilogue!) and I enjoyed their performances.
Overall, a really good addition to the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2023
In addition to his primary job as an electrician, Cash Brennan is also a voice actor, which he refers to as his “side hustle.” And he is a single father to seven year-old Ruby.
Piper Conklin just opened her fitness gym, Pipe Fitters, across the alley from Cash in an old warehouse, and when her music is too loud at five am, Cash reminds her of the noise ordinance. What a way for neighbors to meet! She thinks he’s grumpy, and he thinks she’s disrespectful of others, so he calls his buddy at the city inspections office, and, sure enough, the inspector shuts down Pipe Fitters for electrical code violation. Piper is sad for a number of reasons, the most important of which is that her drive to help women stay healthy is currently stalled.
Oh, and have I failed to mention that they are off-the-charts attracted to each other? Thought not. If you like frenemy coupled with age-gap romance, then this is the story for you. Hop along as Cash and Piper, with Ruby, of course, sort out their similarities and differences in this witty, laugh out loud non-traditional comedy that touches on women’s real challenges, warms the heart and puts a smile on readers’ faces. And, what a treat to be reunited to the other characters in the Bridges and Bitters Series!
I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily leave my honest opinion.
Piper Conklin just opened her fitness gym, Pipe Fitters, across the alley from Cash in an old warehouse, and when her music is too loud at five am, Cash reminds her of the noise ordinance. What a way for neighbors to meet! She thinks he’s grumpy, and he thinks she’s disrespectful of others, so he calls his buddy at the city inspections office, and, sure enough, the inspector shuts down Pipe Fitters for electrical code violation. Piper is sad for a number of reasons, the most important of which is that her drive to help women stay healthy is currently stalled.
Oh, and have I failed to mention that they are off-the-charts attracted to each other? Thought not. If you like frenemy coupled with age-gap romance, then this is the story for you. Hop along as Cash and Piper, with Ruby, of course, sort out their similarities and differences in this witty, laugh out loud non-traditional comedy that touches on women’s real challenges, warms the heart and puts a smile on readers’ faces. And, what a treat to be reunited to the other characters in the Bridges and Bitters Series!
I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily leave my honest opinion.
February 11, 2024
if you're looking for:
✨found family
✨grumpy/sunshine
✨single dad
✨neighbors
3.5/5 ⭐
3/5 🌶️
I struggled on whether I wanted to give this a 3 or a 4 star rating, and I settled in the middle. It was an enjoyable read, and the writing was well done. The book is centered around Cash, a single dad just trying to do the best he can, and Piper, who is branching out to start her gym. The grumpy/sunshine trope is peak, and honestly my favorite thing about this book. The found family aspect is great too - Piper has an amazing group of friends, and it's nice seeing Cash being introduced to the people he's been surrounded by but has been too busy staying afloat to form a connection with.
I think my biggest (and maybe only) issue with this book is that I found it hard to connect with Piper. It was nearly there but kept just missing the mark. She is strong and independent and a girl's girl - all the ingredients for a perfectly relatable FMC. But I kept getting hints of toxic diet culture that, as someone who has struggled with disordered eating, was not quite triggering, but close.
Otherwise, this was a very easy and enjoyable read, with more spice (without it being gratuitous) than I really expected it to have given the length of the book. I will probably read the rest of the series at some point because the side characters were top-notch!
✨found family
✨grumpy/sunshine
✨single dad
✨neighbors
3.5/5 ⭐
3/5 🌶️
I struggled on whether I wanted to give this a 3 or a 4 star rating, and I settled in the middle. It was an enjoyable read, and the writing was well done. The book is centered around Cash, a single dad just trying to do the best he can, and Piper, who is branching out to start her gym. The grumpy/sunshine trope is peak, and honestly my favorite thing about this book. The found family aspect is great too - Piper has an amazing group of friends, and it's nice seeing Cash being introduced to the people he's been surrounded by but has been too busy staying afloat to form a connection with.
I think my biggest (and maybe only) issue with this book is that I found it hard to connect with Piper. It was nearly there but kept just missing the mark. She is strong and independent and a girl's girl - all the ingredients for a perfectly relatable FMC. But I kept getting hints of toxic diet culture that, as someone who has struggled with disordered eating, was not quite triggering, but close.
Otherwise, this was a very easy and enjoyable read, with more spice (without it being gratuitous) than I really expected it to have given the length of the book. I will probably read the rest of the series at some point because the side characters were top-notch!
February 9, 2023
Cash is a single dad to 6 year old Ruby. He is doing his best putting his daughter first and working as an electrician for his dad. His dreams of acting were put on hold by early parenthood but he has his side hustle of voice over work which he loves. Piper is starting a gym in the warehouse space behind his house. He clashes with her when she is blaring music for workouts at the same time as he is recording in his garage studio. He goes all grumpy to her stressed sunshine.
Of course her friends are part of the FOOF (fresh out of …) group that is the connection between the books in this stand alone series. They are trying to help her grow her new gym. Piper for her part is helpful to Ruby which of course helps Cash. I’ve read the first book in the series which I though was hilarious. This is a little less wacky as both MCs have some serious pasts. But I like that Cash grows learning he can trust others and doesn’t have to do everything on his own.
This is a fun, short (215 pages) contemporary, romance with medium heat. It can be read as a stand alone novel but the FOOF friends from other romances show up. Thank you to Lainey Davis who sent me an advance ARC in exchange for a review.
Of course her friends are part of the FOOF (fresh out of …) group that is the connection between the books in this stand alone series. They are trying to help her grow her new gym. Piper for her part is helpful to Ruby which of course helps Cash. I’ve read the first book in the series which I though was hilarious. This is a little less wacky as both MCs have some serious pasts. But I like that Cash grows learning he can trust others and doesn’t have to do everything on his own.
This is a fun, short (215 pages) contemporary, romance with medium heat. It can be read as a stand alone novel but the FOOF friends from other romances show up. Thank you to Lainey Davis who sent me an advance ARC in exchange for a review.
February 8, 2024
Cash & Piper
Grumpy Sunshine
Single / widowed dad
Forced proximity
opposites attract
Series- can be read as standalone
Dual POV
Cash is a single dad to 6 year old Ruby. Her mom passed during childbirth and now Cash is struggling to balance his household as Ruby is in school. His life has been nothing but his daughter and dating has taken a back burner. The elementary moms don't take it easy on him because he can come off as quite gruff. When they do come around though it is seriously swoon worthy.
Piper is struggling to start her own CrossFit gym and is doing so in Cash's neighborhood. Trouble is, he is working on a side gig of voice recordings and Piper's crew is being a bit loud at 5am. She is a strong character with a great side group of friends. The ladies come together for fitness classes, but they get so much more with friendship. This circle of friends is top tier.
I'm not sure who wins the award for being most feisty- Piper or Ruby. But, I do know their friendship was so sweet and endearing and I loved their interactions. I also enjoyed how Cash let his guard down eventually.
I read as a standalone, but I look forward to reading more from this new to me author.
Grumpy Sunshine
Single / widowed dad
Forced proximity
opposites attract
Series- can be read as standalone
Dual POV
Cash is a single dad to 6 year old Ruby. Her mom passed during childbirth and now Cash is struggling to balance his household as Ruby is in school. His life has been nothing but his daughter and dating has taken a back burner. The elementary moms don't take it easy on him because he can come off as quite gruff. When they do come around though it is seriously swoon worthy.
Piper is struggling to start her own CrossFit gym and is doing so in Cash's neighborhood. Trouble is, he is working on a side gig of voice recordings and Piper's crew is being a bit loud at 5am. She is a strong character with a great side group of friends. The ladies come together for fitness classes, but they get so much more with friendship. This circle of friends is top tier.
I'm not sure who wins the award for being most feisty- Piper or Ruby. But, I do know their friendship was so sweet and endearing and I loved their interactions. I also enjoyed how Cash let his guard down eventually.
I read as a standalone, but I look forward to reading more from this new to me author.
February 1, 2023
It was so good to get back into the world of Bridges and Bitters and ALL the FOOF friendship you can handle. I love these powerful women and their ride or die friendship.
I will say though that I’m a stickler for the rules sometimes and really hate when people are inconsiderate so right off the bat I was Team Cash. Cash is such a grump and I love it. Piper is sunshine and determination.
The author has done such a good job of building this world. I wish there was a book for each of the ladies in FOOF. This book has such good build up through their initial issues with each other to a really lovely relationship. Cash says some of the most romantic things and was pretty swoon worthy by the end. Also, Ruby is so cute. I feel like the single parent trope often keeps the kid as an afterthought but the author really included her into the story.
This book wasn’t super steamy, but it had just the right amount for the story. I loved it and would read it again! I can always use a good HEA.
I will say though that I’m a stickler for the rules sometimes and really hate when people are inconsiderate so right off the bat I was Team Cash. Cash is such a grump and I love it. Piper is sunshine and determination.
The author has done such a good job of building this world. I wish there was a book for each of the ladies in FOOF. This book has such good build up through their initial issues with each other to a really lovely relationship. Cash says some of the most romantic things and was pretty swoon worthy by the end. Also, Ruby is so cute. I feel like the single parent trope often keeps the kid as an afterthought but the author really included her into the story.
This book wasn’t super steamy, but it had just the right amount for the story. I loved it and would read it again! I can always use a good HEA.
February 8, 2023
4.5 Stars!
Cash is an electrician raising his young daughter on his own. He does voice acting on the side, not just for the money, but because it’s as close to his passion as he can get. Too bad the new tenant in the warehouse across the alley seems intent in ruining everything!
Piper is starting her own gym. She just leased out a space in warehouse that’s got more issues than not. She unwittingly ruined some of Cash’s opportunities to record by blasting loud music at 5am.
She wasn’t trying to be a bad neighbor. He was nothing but gruff. Yet, the chemistry between them is off the charts!
I loved that she didn’t cower with Cash! She put him right in his place. I also liked that even though she felt hurt a few times, she was able to see where he was coming from as a single dad. There were quite a few scenes that had me fanning myself, and others that just made me melt.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Cash is an electrician raising his young daughter on his own. He does voice acting on the side, not just for the money, but because it’s as close to his passion as he can get. Too bad the new tenant in the warehouse across the alley seems intent in ruining everything!
Piper is starting her own gym. She just leased out a space in warehouse that’s got more issues than not. She unwittingly ruined some of Cash’s opportunities to record by blasting loud music at 5am.
She wasn’t trying to be a bad neighbor. He was nothing but gruff. Yet, the chemistry between them is off the charts!
I loved that she didn’t cower with Cash! She put him right in his place. I also liked that even though she felt hurt a few times, she was able to see where he was coming from as a single dad. There were quite a few scenes that had me fanning myself, and others that just made me melt.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 19, 2024
This series is so good. This is the third book in the Bridges and Bitters Series and I can't stop listening to them. Narrated by Ehlen Valentine and Alastair Haynesbridge. I loved that they narrated the previous book as well and once again made the book entertaining and made it easy to follow along. Cash and Piper had such great banter in the beginning. I always love a good enemies to lovers situation. Piper is just the sweetest woman trying to help woman work on their health. Cash is a single dad just trying to make it and raise his little girl. Between friends and family coming together to help
Piper achieve her goals she meets Cash and that's when all the fun begins. This book will give you romance, spice, laughter, family, friends and will make you smile! I would highly recommend this audiobook and this series.
Thank you Lainey Davis for allowing me to listen to this ALC for my honest opinion.
Piper achieve her goals she meets Cash and that's when all the fun begins. This book will give you romance, spice, laughter, family, friends and will make you smile! I would highly recommend this audiobook and this series.
Thank you Lainey Davis for allowing me to listen to this ALC for my honest opinion.
September 17, 2024
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW:
Speed Rail is book #3 in the Bridges and Bitters series. This single dad, grumpy/sunshine gem didn't disappoint as this series has been fabulous so far. Piper is another part of FOOF (Fresh Out Of F^cks) and has opened her own gym for postpartum mothers and moms in general who need special workout hours. Unfortunately, it sits right behind the recording studio of Cash. These two start to wage a petty war of wills against each other until the chemistry explodes between them. Throw in a ridiculously cute little girl and BAM, it's a winner. So looking forward to Esther's story (love her attitude).
So glad the narrators didn't change for this one. Alastair Haynesbridge and Ehlen Valentine are just phenomenal in this series. They did such a good job with the grumpy attitude of Cash and the always-looking-on-the-bright-side Piper. I absolutely love this duo. 5/5 stars.
Speed Rail is book #3 in the Bridges and Bitters series. This single dad, grumpy/sunshine gem didn't disappoint as this series has been fabulous so far. Piper is another part of FOOF (Fresh Out Of F^cks) and has opened her own gym for postpartum mothers and moms in general who need special workout hours. Unfortunately, it sits right behind the recording studio of Cash. These two start to wage a petty war of wills against each other until the chemistry explodes between them. Throw in a ridiculously cute little girl and BAM, it's a winner. So looking forward to Esther's story (love her attitude).
So glad the narrators didn't change for this one. Alastair Haynesbridge and Ehlen Valentine are just phenomenal in this series. They did such a good job with the grumpy attitude of Cash and the always-looking-on-the-bright-side Piper. I absolutely love this duo. 5/5 stars.
February 9, 2023
This book is part of a series but can definitely be read by itself. I loved this book. It was so much fun to read. The hero's daughter is a blast and keeps him on his toes. Our hero is a single dad who loves his daughter very much and has devoted his life to taking care of her to the exclusion of about everything but his work. One day his world gets 'rocked' by this feisty fitness instructor who is opening a business behind his house. These two start off on the wrong course but courses can be changed and then changed again. This story is funny due to the help of some school mothers, their kids and the members of Foof. I am really wanting to read the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 4, 2023
Speed Rail by Lainey Davis is the story of Cash and Piper. She’s moved her fitness business next to his home…and he isn’t happy about it. Cash is a single parent….Piper is loud, obnoxious, and seems uncaring about others’ comfort. He does something mean causing her lots of difficulty…
I really liked the witty repartee between these two characters. She’s a strong counter to his brash abrasiveness. But, there are other things going on here….and Cash is especially leery and fearful of a repeat of the past…good read!!
I am volunteering to leave a review for an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I really liked the witty repartee between these two characters. She’s a strong counter to his brash abrasiveness. But, there are other things going on here….and Cash is especially leery and fearful of a repeat of the past…good read!!
I am volunteering to leave a review for an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 8, 2023
Such a fun read, full of sass, banter and endearing characters.
Cash is a single dad working two jobs to cover the bills. He’s a bit rough around the edges and not great with people, but he adores his daughter.
Piper is bright and bubbly doing her bit to build female strength.
Their first meeting doesn’t go so well, and a little spite takes over increasing the tension along with their already strong attraction.
Wonderful characters, appearances by the FOOF ladies, heartwarming and plenty of giggles.
Lainey Davis has an awesome sense of humour and definitely knows how to write a HEA.
I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.
Cash is a single dad working two jobs to cover the bills. He’s a bit rough around the edges and not great with people, but he adores his daughter.
Piper is bright and bubbly doing her bit to build female strength.
Their first meeting doesn’t go so well, and a little spite takes over increasing the tension along with their already strong attraction.
Wonderful characters, appearances by the FOOF ladies, heartwarming and plenty of giggles.
Lainey Davis has an awesome sense of humour and definitely knows how to write a HEA.
I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.
November 14, 2024
This is the third book in the Bridges and Bitters Series, a Sports Romance. Cash and Piper's story is fun, entertaining and engaging. Cash, a single-dad, is handsome and caring. Piper is a wonderful character, sassy and supportive. Cash little girl Ruby is adorable. I liked the banter, the humor and the sweet romance. The supporting characters are great. This is a beautifully written grumpy/sunshine romance. Ehlen Valentine and Alastair Haynesbridge did an excellent job bringing this story to life. Looking forward to listening to Last Call, the next book in the series.
February 8, 2023
4.5
Cash is a grumpy single dad to Ruby. In fact, he’s just plain mean to the younger Piper every time he sees her. She’s the fitness instructor who moved next door to his garage (where he does some VO work as a side hustle). Piper is spunky and is in over her head at Pipe Fitters ( pun intended). But Cash exasperated things when he gets her in code trouble. Oh, they of course, are attracted to each other physically.
Cash is a grumpy single dad to Ruby. In fact, he’s just plain mean to the younger Piper every time he sees her. She’s the fitness instructor who moved next door to his garage (where he does some VO work as a side hustle). Piper is spunky and is in over her head at Pipe Fitters ( pun intended). But Cash exasperated things when he gets her in code trouble. Oh, they of course, are attracted to each other physically.
July 14, 2023
Meh, this one was probably my least favorite of the series. Which is unfortunate because I do think that these characters had lots of potential, but I just feel like the drama wasn't as dramatic as it could have been. I think both MCs could have been developed a little more. Their background was a large part of who they were and what they were doing, but it seemed pretty surface level. I just wanted to know more about them, to add some depth to their characters.
January 25, 2024
4.5 stars full review coming www.simplylovebooks.com
I adored this book; a single dad just trying to do his best and a new business owner trying to live out her dream of helping women live healthier, happier lives clash in Speed Rail. I loved that these two characters felt instant attraction to the other despite being at odds, seriously like magnets attracting, and honestly that made this book all the more delicious and fun.
I adored this book; a single dad just trying to do his best and a new business owner trying to live out her dream of helping women live healthier, happier lives clash in Speed Rail. I loved that these two characters felt instant attraction to the other despite being at odds, seriously like magnets attracting, and honestly that made this book all the more delicious and fun.
January 18, 2025
Mostly liked it. I like stories with single dads or moms finding a partner and building a new family. This book does it well. Both characters do stupid or thoughtless things at various points, but they own their behaviour and apologize and make amends, which is refreshing, honestly.
A bit too much sex for my tastes, so I will probably stop here rather than inflict poor reviews on the other books in the series.
A bit too much sex for my tastes, so I will probably stop here rather than inflict poor reviews on the other books in the series.
January 28, 2025
Speed Rail overall just left me feeling really bored and unsatisfied. I could not connect with either Cash (who I really didn’t like) or Piper (who wasn’t bad just kind of bland) and I also felt like I was missing some context as to who these characters really were and what made them tic. I didn’t buy their chemistry and they weren’t even really together for like the whole book so what scenes they did have with each other felt forced.
February 25, 2025
Another hilarious and spicy read in the series and I'm really excited for the next one. I love how relatable the characters are and how much I feel for them when things aren't going well for them. It's also really fun to hear the little snippets of what's happening to the minor characters in the background after reading their stories earlier in the series. I really liked how in this book everyone was really looking out for one another and showed what it meant to be a true part of a community.
February 3, 2023
Speed Rail is a grumpy/sunshine single dad romance that is off the charts amazing. I love Cash & Piper’s interactions and love/hate relationship.
It was also great to read about the FOOF ladies again and how they are all doing.
Can’t wait for Esther’s story!! Lainey, thank you for that little snippet at the end.
It was also great to read about the FOOF ladies again and how they are all doing.
Can’t wait for Esther’s story!! Lainey, thank you for that little snippet at the end.
November 5, 2023
Cash-quatch and Piper
Such a great nickname that Sam comes up with for Cash: Cash-quatch!! Lol!! It's super sweet reading about a single dad who really is clueless, but yet who is trying, desperately, to do everything he can for his little girl as well as to be the best dad he can be for her. I'm in love with him, too!! Foof!!!
Such a great nickname that Sam comes up with for Cash: Cash-quatch!! Lol!! It's super sweet reading about a single dad who really is clueless, but yet who is trying, desperately, to do everything he can for his little girl as well as to be the best dad he can be for her. I'm in love with him, too!! Foof!!!
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