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Love from Kenison Falls #4
Good Guys Wear Black
Dewey Mitchell loves three fixing old cars, football, and family. Although an illness robbed him of his NFL dreams and his hopes for a big family of his own, he's made himself content working the family business and coaching middle school football. But when his town's vibrant new librarian and her young, emotionally challenged son burst into his ordered life, Dewey finds himself inexplicably drawn to the fascinating woman.
Boston-born Rose Hanrehan had no idea how different living in a small town would be. But she's determined to start fresh for her son, who deals with Asperger's syndrome, without her overbearing parents judging her every move. Of course, sometimes her new neighbors seem to be equally closed-minded. And there's one new neighbor she can't seem to avoid … in fact, the handsome Dewey, despite his black hat and buried emotions, might end up being the only reason to stay in Kennison Falls.
Neither one is looking for love, but what they're starting to feel can't be anything else. Will the longtime bachelor and the free-spirited librarian let themselves fall? Or will their differences get in the way of their happy ending?
Boston-born Rose Hanrehan had no idea how different living in a small town would be. But she's determined to start fresh for her son, who deals with Asperger's syndrome, without her overbearing parents judging her every move. Of course, sometimes her new neighbors seem to be equally closed-minded. And there's one new neighbor she can't seem to avoid … in fact, the handsome Dewey, despite his black hat and buried emotions, might end up being the only reason to stay in Kennison Falls.
Neither one is looking for love, but what they're starting to feel can't be anything else. Will the longtime bachelor and the free-spirited librarian let themselves fall? Or will their differences get in the way of their happy ending?
528 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2014
35 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Lizbeth Selvig
25 books259 followersAward-winning and No.1 Bestselling author Lizbeth Selvig writes heartwarming contemporary romance. Whether set in the Scottish Highlands, a huge ranch in Wyoming, a small town in Minnesota, or a Kentucky racetrack, her strong, fun and funny characters will never do the expected while finding their ways home to family and love.
Lizbeth turned to fiction writing after working as a newspaper journalist and magazine editor, raising an equine veterinarian daughter (handy, since there are usually too many horses in her stories) and a talented musician son (also handy because she’s been known to write about rock stars). She shares life in Minnesota, where her first book series is set, with her best friend (aka her husband, Jan), her two pretty horses, Jedi and Largo, three human grandchildren, and her four-legged grandbabies of which there are nearly thirty (including two alpacas, a couple of small goats, a mammoth-eared donkey, two miniature horses, a pig, and many many dogs, cats and regular-sized horses). In her spare time, she loves to hike, quilt, read, and ride horses. An incorrigible extrovert, she also loves connecting with readers—so contact her any time.
Lizbeth turned to fiction writing after working as a newspaper journalist and magazine editor, raising an equine veterinarian daughter (handy, since there are usually too many horses in her stories) and a talented musician son (also handy because she’s been known to write about rock stars). She shares life in Minnesota, where her first book series is set, with her best friend (aka her husband, Jan), her two pretty horses, Jedi and Largo, three human grandchildren, and her four-legged grandbabies of which there are nearly thirty (including two alpacas, a couple of small goats, a mammoth-eared donkey, two miniature horses, a pig, and many many dogs, cats and regular-sized horses). In her spare time, she loves to hike, quilt, read, and ride horses. An incorrigible extrovert, she also loves connecting with readers—so contact her any time.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
December 20, 2014
This was the first book that I received approval for through Edelweiss and though it took quite awhile to get approval for, hopefully it will not be the last. I chose this book, because I have always been a sucker for a cowboy in a black hat, plus Librarian!
When the book opens, we are introduced to Dewey on the football field tryouts for the middle school teams. Dewey is an assistant coach and is working with the kids. We very quickly find out that he is a patient, fair man who is good with kids and though he has some shadows, seems to be a good man.
Then we meat Rose and her son Jesse. Rose is in the middle of relocating from Boston to take over as Head Librarian in the newly rebuilt local library. She had finished driving cross country with her young son Jesse. Jesse has a form of Autism called Asperger's. Basically it makes him very bad with social cues and gives him some odd quirks. When Rose and Dewey meet, during his man-handling (per Rose) of Jesse, or Dewey's keeping Jesse out of the firefighter's way (his words), sparks literally fly. These two seem to butt heads over just about everything. The level of sexual tension was masterful with these two strong willed, used to getting their own ways people.
I especially liked Jesse. He was cute and funny and real. Reading about a character with Asperger's was new for me. I do know someone in real life that has this disorder and appreciated how honestly it was represented. The more the general population know about autism and it's various spectrums, the less fear and misinformation is out there. It's a win win for everyone.
Another important issue covered in this book, was censorship; specifically dealing with banned books in the library setting. I think most of us are familiar with Banned Books week, but finding out about some of the books that are actually on the list is amazing and slightly disheartening. The fact that censorship is still alive and kicking is even more disheartening. But Rose handled the detractor's skillfully and really gave some great points and sparked some lively conversations about it.
After reading this, and looking up some of the author's other works, I realized that some of the secondary characters in the book are from previous books. There doesn't seem to be a formal series, just some books that are interconnected. This book did work well as a standalone, so if you haven't read anything by the author yet, it's not a problem. I enjoyed this book and would happily revisit this great town. This was a 4 star read.
When the book opens, we are introduced to Dewey on the football field tryouts for the middle school teams. Dewey is an assistant coach and is working with the kids. We very quickly find out that he is a patient, fair man who is good with kids and though he has some shadows, seems to be a good man.
Then we meat Rose and her son Jesse. Rose is in the middle of relocating from Boston to take over as Head Librarian in the newly rebuilt local library. She had finished driving cross country with her young son Jesse. Jesse has a form of Autism called Asperger's. Basically it makes him very bad with social cues and gives him some odd quirks. When Rose and Dewey meet, during his man-handling (per Rose) of Jesse, or Dewey's keeping Jesse out of the firefighter's way (his words), sparks literally fly. These two seem to butt heads over just about everything. The level of sexual tension was masterful with these two strong willed, used to getting their own ways people.
I especially liked Jesse. He was cute and funny and real. Reading about a character with Asperger's was new for me. I do know someone in real life that has this disorder and appreciated how honestly it was represented. The more the general population know about autism and it's various spectrums, the less fear and misinformation is out there. It's a win win for everyone.
Another important issue covered in this book, was censorship; specifically dealing with banned books in the library setting. I think most of us are familiar with Banned Books week, but finding out about some of the books that are actually on the list is amazing and slightly disheartening. The fact that censorship is still alive and kicking is even more disheartening. But Rose handled the detractor's skillfully and really gave some great points and sparked some lively conversations about it.
After reading this, and looking up some of the author's other works, I realized that some of the secondary characters in the book are from previous books. There doesn't seem to be a formal series, just some books that are interconnected. This book did work well as a standalone, so if you haven't read anything by the author yet, it's not a problem. I enjoyed this book and would happily revisit this great town. This was a 4 star read.
August 4, 2015
Outstanding. I was attracted to this book because it was a small town romance and included both a librarian and her son with Asperger's syndrome. That automatically hits several of my interest buttons. Although Jesse's ASD is fairly low on the spectrum. he still has socialization issues especially with peers so setting into a new school is tough for him and for his mother.
When she finally gets up the nerve to leave Boston and her wealthy and protective family for a job in a small town, she believes that the move will be good for both of them. Then, she catches the first person they encounter fussing at her son with no clue that he has Apsbergers and know clue that he thinks differently, but his guy thinks he knows better than Rose. Too bad because there is something special about him.
Before the newly rebuilt library even opens, people are protesting a promotion of banned book week. Life in a small town is really different; there are some great people but Rose have no clue how to deal with some of them. AND of course they all know everyone's business. Most of all, she can't quite figure Dewey out or why her son is so attached to him.
I was delighted to discover that it is part of a series.
When she finally gets up the nerve to leave Boston and her wealthy and protective family for a job in a small town, she believes that the move will be good for both of them. Then, she catches the first person they encounter fussing at her son with no clue that he has Apsbergers and know clue that he thinks differently, but his guy thinks he knows better than Rose. Too bad because there is something special about him.
Before the newly rebuilt library even opens, people are protesting a promotion of banned book week. Life in a small town is really different; there are some great people but Rose have no clue how to deal with some of them. AND of course they all know everyone's business. Most of all, she can't quite figure Dewey out or why her son is so attached to him.
I was delighted to discover that it is part of a series.
February 28, 2016
The plot was okay, the characters okay but it seemed like the book went on forever without the relationship between Dewey and Rose getting anywhere. The book mainly centered around Rose's son, Jesse, who had Aspergers. Her attempts to deal with him and Dewey's attempts to "manage" him without really understanding him. Just couldn't get into this one.
October 14, 2014
I'm gonna be honest, I bought Good Guys Wear Black, because I fell in love with the cover. Don't get me wrong, Lizbeth Selvig is a wonderful author and I would have eventually gotten around to reading this book, but the cover and the excerpt had me, ignoring my tbr list and pushing this book all the way to the top. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was pleased how the author dealt with the important topic of Asperger's syndrome. This book revolves around Dewey, Rose, and her son Jesse.
Rose moves her and her son to the small town of Kennison Falls and takes the position of Head Librarian. I admired Rose throughout the whole story, couldn't have been easy being a single mother, and raising her son who isn't quite like the other kids. Never once did she complain though, throughout the story, she showed her son conditional love. Another reason why I loved Rose, was because she tried to educate the town on freedom of speech, by supporting Banned Books. It was enlightening to read about the heated protests concerning the banned books, and I agreed with Rose's opinion one hundred percent.
Dewey is the gas-station owner, who does a lot around town. He can pretty much fix anything that needs fixing. My first impression of Dewey wasn't a good one. I thought he was ignorant and a total a$$hole! Thankfully, as the story progressed, I found myself a little in love with Dewey. He's a real good guy, and every knows good guys wear black. The way he felt about Rose and Jesse towards the end, made my heart smile.
Rose and Dewey definitely have chemistry together, and even though it's a slow burn, when these two finally get together, it's perfect. This book made me laugh, curse, and sigh at certain parts. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance with a great storyline.
Rose moves her and her son to the small town of Kennison Falls and takes the position of Head Librarian. I admired Rose throughout the whole story, couldn't have been easy being a single mother, and raising her son who isn't quite like the other kids. Never once did she complain though, throughout the story, she showed her son conditional love. Another reason why I loved Rose, was because she tried to educate the town on freedom of speech, by supporting Banned Books. It was enlightening to read about the heated protests concerning the banned books, and I agreed with Rose's opinion one hundred percent.
Dewey is the gas-station owner, who does a lot around town. He can pretty much fix anything that needs fixing. My first impression of Dewey wasn't a good one. I thought he was ignorant and a total a$$hole! Thankfully, as the story progressed, I found myself a little in love with Dewey. He's a real good guy, and every knows good guys wear black. The way he felt about Rose and Jesse towards the end, made my heart smile.
Rose and Dewey definitely have chemistry together, and even though it's a slow burn, when these two finally get together, it's perfect. This book made me laugh, curse, and sigh at certain parts. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance with a great storyline.
July 5, 2017
As you can tell from my reading on Goodreads, I don't read much romance. I investigated this one because I was interested to see how a librarian would be depicted in current romance. A short way into this book I was wondering if it had an endorsement from the American Library Association (like the NASCAR/Harliquin connection) as there was very detailed information provided about the freedom to read and Banned books week. Various characters gave very clear and detailed explanations about the importance of the freedom to read, and of how Banned books week could be used to heighten awareness of previously banned titles. There was also a good description of how communities can register a complaint about a book. This was of interest as we have a very different approach in Australia, with much less banning. I felt these descriptions dominated the story for a long time, but they may have been needed for some character and story development.
The main man in the story was called Dewey, and I did not feel nearly enough was made of his name when he started getting to know the new librarian in town (trust me, this is not a spoiler).
I had a few concerns about how the library was depicted. Much attention was given to the children's area (and the new librarian was described as a specialist in this area), however, signage seemed to be handmade, and there was no mention of current technology in the library.
A few asides, the cover is not an accurate representation of the main man, Dewey. This book came to my attention via an rss feed.
The main man in the story was called Dewey, and I did not feel nearly enough was made of his name when he started getting to know the new librarian in town (trust me, this is not a spoiler).
I had a few concerns about how the library was depicted. Much attention was given to the children's area (and the new librarian was described as a specialist in this area), however, signage seemed to be handmade, and there was no mention of current technology in the library.
A few asides, the cover is not an accurate representation of the main man, Dewey. This book came to my attention via an rss feed.
December 9, 2014
Lizbeth took a topic that could have been handled casually and handled it with such grace. Rose moves with her son, Jesse to a new town - a small town - from Boston where her parents were constantly trying to make up for her indiscretion of having a child out of wedlock. She had to get away, and finally did.
Her love of books takes her to Kennison Falls - the official small town. Arriving to town almost on empty brings her Mitchell's Gas N' Garage and into the presence of the always pleasant, Dewey/Duane Mitchell. (Sense the sarcasm?)
While he was not her cup of tea, it didn't stop her appreciation of the fine specimen that worked her every nerve.
"He wore sex appeal like an uncomfortable suit - something he'd owned his entire life but didn't use often enough to get used to it. It was too bad. The suit was beautifully made. Given a little care, it could have made it look like a tuxedo."
You will fall in love with these characters as they find their way to each other. Kennison Falls is the small town you dream of with all those crazy characters.
Her love of books takes her to Kennison Falls - the official small town. Arriving to town almost on empty brings her Mitchell's Gas N' Garage and into the presence of the always pleasant, Dewey/Duane Mitchell. (Sense the sarcasm?)
While he was not her cup of tea, it didn't stop her appreciation of the fine specimen that worked her every nerve.
"He wore sex appeal like an uncomfortable suit - something he'd owned his entire life but didn't use often enough to get used to it. It was too bad. The suit was beautifully made. Given a little care, it could have made it look like a tuxedo."
You will fall in love with these characters as they find their way to each other. Kennison Falls is the small town you dream of with all those crazy characters.
August 11, 2015
YAY! So glad Dewey finally got his HEA. This is the 4th book in the Rural Gentleman series but it is easily read stand alone. This is a wonderful story of love slowly blossoming into something strong and perfect. Dewey is kind, gentle, and the one everyone depends on. He's lonely though. Even though he has his family, the people of the town, and his friends, what he's always wanted is a family of his own including a woman who loves him just for himself. When Rose Hanrehan, the new librarian blows into town Dewey knows his quiet little world will never be the same. He just doesn't expect it to change in the way it does!
This is truly a great read. Rose drove me a bit crazy at times but that is just what made her Rose. Give this one a read, I highly recommend it!
This is truly a great read. Rose drove me a bit crazy at times but that is just what made her Rose. Give this one a read, I highly recommend it!
October 20, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I was so excited for Dewey to get his story, and did not disappoint me.
Dewey is a Mr. Fix It, loves children and people in general, plus animals, but can never have children of his own. New librarian moves into town with her son, Jesse who has Aspergers. Rose is very protective of her son, Dewey tries to bring Jesse out of his shell. Rose tries to bring new ideas to the library, where many of the old fashion town folk don't like. There is an attraction between Dewey and Rose, that both are afraid of pursuing. I loved how they both grew together.
My favorite part was when Rose said, Good Guys do wear black, made me giggle out loud.
I recieved ARC from Edelweiss for an honest review.
Dewey is a Mr. Fix It, loves children and people in general, plus animals, but can never have children of his own. New librarian moves into town with her son, Jesse who has Aspergers. Rose is very protective of her son, Dewey tries to bring Jesse out of his shell. Rose tries to bring new ideas to the library, where many of the old fashion town folk don't like. There is an attraction between Dewey and Rose, that both are afraid of pursuing. I loved how they both grew together.
My favorite part was when Rose said, Good Guys do wear black, made me giggle out loud.
I recieved ARC from Edelweiss for an honest review.
January 4, 2015
This is a nice enough book, but I'm afraid that none of the character especially grabbed me.
I liked that the author tried to show certain things in a good/educational light i.e. autism and banned books. Some of the books that were on the banned book list are frankly laughable now (Winnie the Poo?) so it was lovely to see the author stand up for peoples rights to choose which books they read rather then having them banned by the "authorities". I especially like that she showed the contention (or lack there of) between the banned books and religion. Luckily, despite all she wanted to get across it doesn't seem preachy or over done, so respect to the author for walking that fine line.
I liked that the author tried to show certain things in a good/educational light i.e. autism and banned books. Some of the books that were on the banned book list are frankly laughable now (Winnie the Poo?) so it was lovely to see the author stand up for peoples rights to choose which books they read rather then having them banned by the "authorities". I especially like that she showed the contention (or lack there of) between the banned books and religion. Luckily, despite all she wanted to get across it doesn't seem preachy or over done, so respect to the author for walking that fine line.
October 15, 2014
Good Guys Wear Black is a feel good romance with a good plot and very interesting story-line. It had a little bit of a slow start but kept my interest and kept the pages turning.
Rose is from a prominent family and a big city, but has decided to take a job as a small town librarian to get a fresh start for her and her son who has emotional issues and has been having trouble fitting in.
Dewey is Mr. Fix-it. He is good with cars, football & very popular with everyone around town. When he sees Rose struggling with her son and facing problems fitting in he steps in.
Rose is from a prominent family and a big city, but has decided to take a job as a small town librarian to get a fresh start for her and her son who has emotional issues and has been having trouble fitting in.
Dewey is Mr. Fix-it. He is good with cars, football & very popular with everyone around town. When he sees Rose struggling with her son and facing problems fitting in he steps in.
October 18, 2014
It was a really busy week, but I spent every spare moment reading Dewey's story. What a great read and touching on such relevant topics that were handled carefully and in a way that contributed to the story. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
July 27, 2015
Fun read with a message
I like that Dewey finally got his story. Would have been nice to see more of the characters from the other books. The message on banned books was perfect but the resolution a little cliche. Interesting twist on middle school challenges as well.
I like that Dewey finally got his story. Would have been nice to see more of the characters from the other books. The message on banned books was perfect but the resolution a little cliche. Interesting twist on middle school challenges as well.
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September 11, 2015I tried twice to start this book but I wasn't engaged by either the hero or heroine. The hero seemed a little too small-town minded and the heroine was a bit over the top. Also, the name Dewey put me off the hero, too.
October 16, 2015
I loved this book! It has everything, a Librarian fighting a small town to keep them from banning books and a Young boy who has Asperger's and a cowboy who coaches middle school football. They all come together to form a wonderfully heart warming story of understanding and love.
March 22, 2017
I LOVE Lizbeth's books, I have pre-ordered each one and have loved every minute of reading!! Cant wait for more!!!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews