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~Gage is part of The Barringer Brothers Series but can be read as a standalone novel~
After nearly losing his friend in a logging accident, Gage Barringer is convinced now more than ever that he needs to find a different job. But his side business of breaking colts at the small Montana ranch he inherited from his grandfather doesn't earn him enough money. He has his mind set on running The Raven's Nest, a popular bar and restaurant near his ranch. The original owner has died and Gage is waiting for it to be put up for sale. But there is a five-foot-four, brown eyed, obstacle in his way, an obstacle with lips made for sin and a voice made for breaking hearts. And Summer Donovan is one road block Gage Barringer won't be able to find a way around.
*Full length novel*
After nearly losing his friend in a logging accident, Gage Barringer is convinced now more than ever that he needs to find a different job. But his side business of breaking colts at the small Montana ranch he inherited from his grandfather doesn't earn him enough money. He has his mind set on running The Raven's Nest, a popular bar and restaurant near his ranch. The original owner has died and Gage is waiting for it to be put up for sale. But there is a five-foot-four, brown eyed, obstacle in his way, an obstacle with lips made for sin and a voice made for breaking hearts. And Summer Donovan is one road block Gage Barringer won't be able to find a way around.
*Full length novel*
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2014
421 people are currently reading
2238 people want to read
About the author
Tess Oliver
126 books2,458 followersTess Oliver is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Custom Culture series and a large collection of other romances. She is well known for her relatable characters who "become your friends" as you journey with them and for intriguing stories that will have you "devouring her books in just one day". Tess has been featured on USA Today's 'Happy Ever After' site, and in publications including Glamour UK and Elle UK magazines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
October 16, 2016
2.5 stars
Going to rant a bit, hang on
While I liked the mountain setting and the heroine Summer, Gage's sexual past was bought up too much for my liking.
Summer even says she should thank all the women he's slept with for making him so good in bed, right after they've just had sex for the first time. And the scene in the bathroom near the start where he bangs some woman he's used for sex before, then minutes later meets the heroine. It was just unnecessary and put a sour note on their story for me.
There were also a few scenes that had me rolling my eyes. Especially when they're at Gage's house with some friends talking about past sexual experiences, then the men putting on a scary movie just to get the women to sit on their laps. These are supposed to be grown ass adults, not 14-year-olds FFS.
And then we have the ending. The drama hits at 97% and then BOOM it all gets skipped over and THE END. Erm, Hello, you can't just skip over the drama you just forced into the story. What was the point of adding it in? There's no happy after, there isn't even really a hint of how things are going forward. It was beyond abrupt.
So, apart from all that, the sex was pretty hot, the setting was nice and it wasn't awful, but it was inconsistent
Going to rant a bit, hang on
While I liked the mountain setting and the heroine Summer, Gage's sexual past was bought up too much for my liking.
Summer even says she should thank all the women he's slept with for making him so good in bed, right after they've just had sex for the first time. And the scene in the bathroom near the start where he bangs some woman he's used for sex before, then minutes later meets the heroine. It was just unnecessary and put a sour note on their story for me.
There were also a few scenes that had me rolling my eyes. Especially when they're at Gage's house with some friends talking about past sexual experiences, then the men putting on a scary movie just to get the women to sit on their laps. These are supposed to be grown ass adults, not 14-year-olds FFS.
And then we have the ending. The drama hits at 97% and then BOOM it all gets skipped over and THE END. Erm, Hello, you can't just skip over the drama you just forced into the story. What was the point of adding it in? There's no happy after, there isn't even really a hint of how things are going forward. It was beyond abrupt.
So, apart from all that, the sex was pretty hot, the setting was nice and it wasn't awful, but it was inconsistent
October 8, 2015
YUM man mountain Gage....what a delight, thoroughly enjoyed this.
Tess Oliver is a new author to me, so I didn't know what to expect. I can safely say I'll be reading more from this author!!
Tess Oliver is a new author to me, so I didn't know what to expect. I can safely say I'll be reading more from this author!!
June 27, 2015
Okay. So yeah, I love this book. I'm totally in love with Gage. And Summer is my girl. We can so hang together.
I loved everything about this story. The richness in it's simplicity of the written word, when getting to know these characters separately. Their surroundings & witnessing them coming together. There was nothing contrived with this simple yet emotionally deep story. I'm definitely going to read on. Hopefully this series only gets better.
I HIGHLY recommend this read.
I'm thinking of trying the other stories to get a little more background with these characters and others that are mentioned in this book, with the "Rain Shadow Books 1-5"
Happy Reading :)
I loved everything about this story. The richness in it's simplicity of the written word, when getting to know these characters separately. Their surroundings & witnessing them coming together. There was nothing contrived with this simple yet emotionally deep story. I'm definitely going to read on. Hopefully this series only gets better.
I HIGHLY recommend this read.
I'm thinking of trying the other stories to get a little more background with these characters and others that are mentioned in this book, with the "Rain Shadow Books 1-5"
Happy Reading :)
April 12, 2016
Gage and Summer. I swear I already reviewed this one... my computer must have crashed again. Oh well, read this one several months ago but I still remember it pretty well because I quite enjoyed it. Summer is a talented musician who catches her boyfriend/lead guitarist in bed with her supposed best friend. Then the man who wants to give them a their big break in the industry, demands that not only must she sleep with him, but they will be replacing everyone in the bad but her. Suddenly LA doesn't seem like such a wonderful place to live and the bar that her Uncle left her sounds like a perfect place to start fresh. This sucks for Gage, as he also needs a fresh start and was hoping to do so by buying the bar. There's not much else to do in the area except work as a logger, which is back breaking, dangerous and doesn't even pay that great. Summer and Gage's first meeting pretty gives Summer the impression that he is the town playboy. He is a hotty, and it was stupid and kinda made me go 'ick' too. But normally he isn't a slut. He had already made up his mind of what to expect Summer to be like and it takes a while for him to see the real girl. I found the characters engaging and not stereotyped. The story was somewhat predictable but the ending was not. I think it was the ending that gave it the final star for me.
I don't know what to think about this author. I've not only disliked, but actively despised every other book I've tried by her. But for some reason, this book turned out to be a gem. Weird. So that's why she's on my 'author ain't my cup of tea' shelf even though I enjoyed this read.
I don't know what to think about this author. I've not only disliked, but actively despised every other book I've tried by her. But for some reason, this book turned out to be a gem. Weird. So that's why she's on my 'author ain't my cup of tea' shelf even though I enjoyed this read.
January 7, 2017
4 Pine Scented Stars
The clean mountain air. The scent of pine and dirt. A hunky guy in plaid. No, not a paper towel commercial. This book.
Summer is an aspiring singer living in California. Until she becomes a restaurant owner living in Montana. Funny how life can throw you curve balls. Like finding your boyfriend in bed with your bestie. Or finding out your grandfather left you a restaurant. Or finding out that your mother is a bitch.
Gage is a mountain man and a mountain of man. He has a dangerous job. Actually a couple of dangerous jobs. He'd like have a career where there is not to possibility of death on a daily basis. But he blows off steam by having lots of sex. Lots of sex. With different women whom he really doesn't care about. It's just easier that way.
Yes, he's handsome, some might even say gloriously so....
When Gage and Summer met, it isn't exactly under the best of circumstances. He really doesn't get off to a great start with her.
"That's a bit elaborate fora tip. All I did was bring you silverware."
"That's not a tip." He poured himself another shot. "That's to pay for the sink....Did a little damage to the brothel."
Gage and Summer have a lot stacked against them. They are from two different worlds and who knows if she will even stay in Montana. It gets cold there as the locals remind her. Often.
I liked the book, but I wanted more. The end just ends. It's not a cliff hanger but I didn't get the satisfaction that I want from a good ending. I liked the characters and the writing, but I wanted more. Hopefully I'll get some satisfaction from the next one. Because I will read the next one.
The clean mountain air. The scent of pine and dirt. A hunky guy in plaid. No, not a paper towel commercial. This book.
Summer is an aspiring singer living in California. Until she becomes a restaurant owner living in Montana. Funny how life can throw you curve balls. Like finding your boyfriend in bed with your bestie. Or finding out your grandfather left you a restaurant. Or finding out that your mother is a bitch.
Gage is a mountain man and a mountain of man. He has a dangerous job. Actually a couple of dangerous jobs. He'd like have a career where there is not to possibility of death on a daily basis. But he blows off steam by having lots of sex. Lots of sex. With different women whom he really doesn't care about. It's just easier that way.
Yes, he's handsome, some might even say gloriously so....
When Gage and Summer met, it isn't exactly under the best of circumstances. He really doesn't get off to a great start with her.
"That's a bit elaborate fora tip. All I did was bring you silverware."
"That's not a tip." He poured himself another shot. "That's to pay for the sink....Did a little damage to the brothel."
Gage and Summer have a lot stacked against them. They are from two different worlds and who knows if she will even stay in Montana. It gets cold there as the locals remind her. Often.
I liked the book, but I wanted more. The end just ends. It's not a cliff hanger but I didn't get the satisfaction that I want from a good ending. I liked the characters and the writing, but I wanted more. Hopefully I'll get some satisfaction from the next one. Because I will read the next one.
October 20, 2014
This was a nice read. There was a long introduction as to how Summer decided to leave her life in California and moved to Montana to take over her grandfather’s restaurant.
Summer was offered a contract with a record company. She is the lead singer for a band. The record company tells her that they will only sign her and not her bandmates. Summer declines since she has always been with her band plus her boyfriend is in the band. Summer declines only to go home to find her boyfriend having sex with her best friend. Upset about every that had taken place, she decides to move to Montana. As she is meeting people at her restaurant, she meets Gage, who is upset that Raven’s Nest, will longer be for sale for him to buy.
The initial meeting was Gage walking out the women’s bathroom after having sex with a woman. Looking back on that scene it was so out of character for Gage. I have read many books with man whores, but this scene did not feel right. Gage was such a good guy. That scene felt forced. There was nothing to love or hate about Summer, but there was something missing that I could not connect with her. Summer was nice, but I did not understand what drew her to Gage. The book is written in dual POVs with a switch every chapter so the reader knows instantly what the other characters are thinking, which left a lot of suspense of the story out for me.
A copy provided for an honest review.
Summer was offered a contract with a record company. She is the lead singer for a band. The record company tells her that they will only sign her and not her bandmates. Summer declines since she has always been with her band plus her boyfriend is in the band. Summer declines only to go home to find her boyfriend having sex with her best friend. Upset about every that had taken place, she decides to move to Montana. As she is meeting people at her restaurant, she meets Gage, who is upset that Raven’s Nest, will longer be for sale for him to buy.
The initial meeting was Gage walking out the women’s bathroom after having sex with a woman. Looking back on that scene it was so out of character for Gage. I have read many books with man whores, but this scene did not feel right. Gage was such a good guy. That scene felt forced. There was nothing to love or hate about Summer, but there was something missing that I could not connect with her. Summer was nice, but I did not understand what drew her to Gage. The book is written in dual POVs with a switch every chapter so the reader knows instantly what the other characters are thinking, which left a lot of suspense of the story out for me.
A copy provided for an honest review.
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March 5, 2015
GAGE!!!!! WOW!!!!
Reading Order
Rain Shadow #1
Rain Shadow #2
Rain Shadow #3
Rain Shadow #4
Rain Shadow #5
Gage (The Barringer Brothers #1)
Cash (The Barringer Brothers #2)
Seth (The Barringer Brothers #3)
TBRJericho (The Barringer Brothers #4)
*Challenge: A book with a one word title*
October 29, 2014
Tess Oliver is a new author to me but I have friends who highly recommend her books so when I saw this cover I thought where do I get mine from? This is a contemporary romance which is not my usual genre of choice but I'm increasingly discovering new authors and setting aside my own prejudices . This book was a complete revelation and such fun that I'm so glad I took a chance.
Gage Barringer is a logger but that's a vey dangerous life and he would really like to just find something else to occupy himself. Oh when not logging he runs a small ranch with horses but what he would really like is to buy The Ravens Nest and as the new owner lives in California and doesn't seem interested he is quite hopeful . When he walks into the bar though he is told that the tiny yet infuriating blonde has no intention of selling and in fact she's there to run it herself. Gage still has hope that Summer will sell to him but frankly he's quite enjoying having her around.
Summer loves singing and with her band is about to break into the big time but there's a catch, the company only want Summer and more worryingly there's a casting couch featuring loud and proud! Summer is no pushover and disgusted goes home but what she finds there is no better and she makes the decision to head up to Montana and take over the reins of the bar she has recently inherited. What she hadn't expected was to meet a man mountain named Gage who tempts her to climb him like a tree! Gage is a player there's no doubt but everyone loves this quiet man and circumstances keep throwing them together and the more time Summer spends with Gage the more she really likes what she sees. Unfortunately Summer has a life in California and it's calling her back but does she want to go?
I really enjoyed this story as I hadn't read anything about logging before and can I just say that the author has clearly done her homework. There's obviously been a lot of research going on and it really shows. I knew nothing about the process of logging before but after reading this my eyes have been well and truly opened. Do not misunderstand this is a work of romantic fiction and it's very well written. The characters burst from the page and we do get alternative views from the hero and heroine but I found that only added to the story. It was very easy to follow the storyline and quite amusing at times. I really liked that the relationship built up gradually and it made it feel more realistic and when the couple finally connected it was a very sensuous romance. Gage is a very quiet self contained guy who never expected to be blown away by any one woman but he does fall and falls hard! Summer was quite annoying at times if honest as she's always so emotional and in tears but to be fair to her she does apologise for being a bit of a sap so I forgive her.
So in conclusion I really enjoyed this story and was so impressed by the authors talent that I would happily read more from her. Great if you fancy a story with both heart and humour and the added spice doesn't hurt either!
Gage Barringer is a logger but that's a vey dangerous life and he would really like to just find something else to occupy himself. Oh when not logging he runs a small ranch with horses but what he would really like is to buy The Ravens Nest and as the new owner lives in California and doesn't seem interested he is quite hopeful . When he walks into the bar though he is told that the tiny yet infuriating blonde has no intention of selling and in fact she's there to run it herself. Gage still has hope that Summer will sell to him but frankly he's quite enjoying having her around.
Summer loves singing and with her band is about to break into the big time but there's a catch, the company only want Summer and more worryingly there's a casting couch featuring loud and proud! Summer is no pushover and disgusted goes home but what she finds there is no better and she makes the decision to head up to Montana and take over the reins of the bar she has recently inherited. What she hadn't expected was to meet a man mountain named Gage who tempts her to climb him like a tree! Gage is a player there's no doubt but everyone loves this quiet man and circumstances keep throwing them together and the more time Summer spends with Gage the more she really likes what she sees. Unfortunately Summer has a life in California and it's calling her back but does she want to go?
I really enjoyed this story as I hadn't read anything about logging before and can I just say that the author has clearly done her homework. There's obviously been a lot of research going on and it really shows. I knew nothing about the process of logging before but after reading this my eyes have been well and truly opened. Do not misunderstand this is a work of romantic fiction and it's very well written. The characters burst from the page and we do get alternative views from the hero and heroine but I found that only added to the story. It was very easy to follow the storyline and quite amusing at times. I really liked that the relationship built up gradually and it made it feel more realistic and when the couple finally connected it was a very sensuous romance. Gage is a very quiet self contained guy who never expected to be blown away by any one woman but he does fall and falls hard! Summer was quite annoying at times if honest as she's always so emotional and in tears but to be fair to her she does apologise for being a bit of a sap so I forgive her.
So in conclusion I really enjoyed this story and was so impressed by the authors talent that I would happily read more from her. Great if you fancy a story with both heart and humour and the added spice doesn't hurt either!
February 9, 2017
I'm a huge Tess Oliver fan and before you read The Barringer Brothers Series you need to read 
as it is about Luke, Gage's brother. 4 "I don't know what they put in the water" stars.
Summer is about to hit big in LA with a record deal. Summer is bright and smart and has the voice of an angel. Unfortunately it is either spread her legs or no deal. To make a deal even shittier she finds her boyfriend of 3 years cheating on her. Her Mum is a bitch. So he leaves for Montana to the restaurant she inherited.
Gage is heart lonely not sex lonely and well there is the sink accident at the Raven's Nest. Summer and Gage get closer and he is a solid guy. He wanted to buy Raven's Nest but he got a lot more out of it. The chemistry was really good where as this book might not have a lot of steam in it. I do love Tess Oliver as she writes about real issues none of them are perfect and that life throws you curve balls and that you tell the lemons to fuck off instead of making lemonade.
To those who don't like cheating there is none but there is a o/w just before he meets the heroine.
Hell while you're at it, read
and 
.
Before you read though you need to read 
as it is about Luke, Gage's brother. 4 "I don't know what they put in the water" stars.Summer is about to hit big in LA with a record deal. Summer is bright and smart and has the voice of an angel. Unfortunately it is either spread her legs or no deal. To make a deal even shittier she finds her boyfriend of 3 years cheating on her. Her Mum is a bitch. So he leaves for Montana to the restaurant she inherited.
Gage is heart lonely not sex lonely and well there is the sink accident at the Raven's Nest. Summer and Gage get closer and he is a solid guy. He wanted to buy Raven's Nest but he got a lot more out of it. The chemistry was really good where as this book might not have a lot of steam in it. I do love Tess Oliver as she writes about real issues none of them are perfect and that life throws you curve balls and that you tell the lemons to fuck off instead of making lemonade.
To those who don't like cheating there is none but there is a o/w just before he meets the heroine.
Hell while you're at it, read
and .Before you read
though you need to read 
November 25, 2014
I loved this book (probably helped a little by all the crappy books I've read lately). Our hero, logger Gage and his underwater welder brother Seth will definitely get your hearts (and other parts of your body) pumping. Even our heroine, wronged singer Summer, has a strong, take no prisoner's attitude that meshes perfectly with our (formerly) man-whore Gage. Loved the detailed (and accurate) portrayal of what logger's do for a living. It is hard, dangerous work and only real men need apply. Well written romance with a little angst here and there but certainly not too much and I really liked it.
March 21, 2016
So, so happy that Gage got his own book. I instantly fell in love with him in the Rain Shadow Series. His book was perfect, and so was his little California love interest. Another great read!
October 12, 2014
Gage is the first book of the Barringer Brothers series, and this series is a spin off from the Rain Shadow Series.
The first thing I love about this book is that while it is a new series , we see some of the old characters from The Rain Shadow Series, as well as a host of new characters that you will really enjoy reading about. All of the characters are well developed and as usual in the author's way, she takes the character building a step beyond physical description, giving them them substance and their own little quirks, likes, dislikes, and personalities so that when you are reading not just this but any book she writes, you feel like you are reading about real people! I love that!
The plot leaves you guessing as to what is going to happen, and you will not see a lot of the changes coming until they are already happening, so you really can't second guess what is going to happen. There is a build up of emotional angst and sexual undertones, which will leave you breathless with anticipation!
Gage Barringer is a huge mountain man who works in the logging camps, but also owns his own ranch where he breaks horses for a living. Gage has lived at the ranch most of his life, going there when he was a young troubled boy, packed off to his grandfather's property where he remains to this day inheriting everything from his grandfather who passed a way a few years ago. He is a simple man- works hard, plays harder, and all the women he dates know the score, he never has gotten serious about a woman, there is no room in his life for one.
Gage, wanting to get out of the logging work has been saving up money to buy the little bar in town, but the owner has not shown up yet so he is hoping to buy the bar from her when she does show up. Gage knew her grandfather, and towards the end helped him out a lot when he was too sick to take care of himself anymore.
Summer Donovan, fresh from a break up with her boyfriend of 3 years, after catching him in bed with her best friend, and after being hit on by the man who was going to sponsor their band, decides to just get away and pick up and move to Montana and stay in her grandfather's house and run the bar/restaurant he left to her, as he left everything to her and nothing to his daughter, Summer's mom.
Summer decides it is time for a change in her life, and since the band is no longer something she can deal with since her ex was lead guitar player, and has cheated on her and then in anger threw a cup at her face hitting her and leaving a mark, off she goes to try a new way of life which will hopefully be better for her.
What happens when Gage sees Summer for the first time, and how he deals with her and she with him, is really awesome, and you will love the way this story plays out. It will be funny to watch a petite, 5'4' ball of energy interacting with a mountain of a man, who up to this point in his life has not bothered to deal with any woman at all, but this feisty little girl from California has got him all turned around, or as his brother Seth says to him, he had been "gobsmacked' by her!, and again when he realizes it and he thinks to himself, "I stood there dumbstruck for a second. Not completely sure when it'd happened, but as Seth had so stupidly and uniquely said it-I'd been gobsmacked. I'd been f_____g gobsmacked." This book has a lot of humor to it with all the different things that happen and what is said, and in no time at all, I was finished with the book and all I can think is I can't wait until the next one!
Do yourself a favor and get this new book by Tess Oliver, and I guarantee, you will be glad you did. Read and find out what happens with Summer and Gage and what happens with everything else as well as these two!
I gave this book 5***** stars, and would have given more if I could! I would like to thank the author for another great read!
The first thing I love about this book is that while it is a new series , we see some of the old characters from The Rain Shadow Series, as well as a host of new characters that you will really enjoy reading about. All of the characters are well developed and as usual in the author's way, she takes the character building a step beyond physical description, giving them them substance and their own little quirks, likes, dislikes, and personalities so that when you are reading not just this but any book she writes, you feel like you are reading about real people! I love that!
The plot leaves you guessing as to what is going to happen, and you will not see a lot of the changes coming until they are already happening, so you really can't second guess what is going to happen. There is a build up of emotional angst and sexual undertones, which will leave you breathless with anticipation!
Gage Barringer is a huge mountain man who works in the logging camps, but also owns his own ranch where he breaks horses for a living. Gage has lived at the ranch most of his life, going there when he was a young troubled boy, packed off to his grandfather's property where he remains to this day inheriting everything from his grandfather who passed a way a few years ago. He is a simple man- works hard, plays harder, and all the women he dates know the score, he never has gotten serious about a woman, there is no room in his life for one.
Gage, wanting to get out of the logging work has been saving up money to buy the little bar in town, but the owner has not shown up yet so he is hoping to buy the bar from her when she does show up. Gage knew her grandfather, and towards the end helped him out a lot when he was too sick to take care of himself anymore.
Summer Donovan, fresh from a break up with her boyfriend of 3 years, after catching him in bed with her best friend, and after being hit on by the man who was going to sponsor their band, decides to just get away and pick up and move to Montana and stay in her grandfather's house and run the bar/restaurant he left to her, as he left everything to her and nothing to his daughter, Summer's mom.
Summer decides it is time for a change in her life, and since the band is no longer something she can deal with since her ex was lead guitar player, and has cheated on her and then in anger threw a cup at her face hitting her and leaving a mark, off she goes to try a new way of life which will hopefully be better for her.
What happens when Gage sees Summer for the first time, and how he deals with her and she with him, is really awesome, and you will love the way this story plays out. It will be funny to watch a petite, 5'4' ball of energy interacting with a mountain of a man, who up to this point in his life has not bothered to deal with any woman at all, but this feisty little girl from California has got him all turned around, or as his brother Seth says to him, he had been "gobsmacked' by her!, and again when he realizes it and he thinks to himself, "I stood there dumbstruck for a second. Not completely sure when it'd happened, but as Seth had so stupidly and uniquely said it-I'd been gobsmacked. I'd been f_____g gobsmacked." This book has a lot of humor to it with all the different things that happen and what is said, and in no time at all, I was finished with the book and all I can think is I can't wait until the next one!
Do yourself a favor and get this new book by Tess Oliver, and I guarantee, you will be glad you did. Read and find out what happens with Summer and Gage and what happens with everything else as well as these two!
I gave this book 5***** stars, and would have given more if I could! I would like to thank the author for another great read!
July 23, 2015
There are usually reasons why I give a romance 3 stars, and the positive reasons mostly balance out the negative ones.
On the one hand, the fabric of one or both of the main characters is made cheaply or its stitching carelessly unfinished. Sure, I like a flawed character, if he or she is written off a rich or faithful palate. However, I do not like the flaws to come in the form of inconsistencies, shallow conversations for the sake of acknowledgment, or superficial features in the name of "hotness".
This unfinished line is sometimes pervasive and "unfinished" just means that more attention should have been put into the writing and/or craft.
On the other hand, plot devices that are used well, like setting, chemistry between the main man and woman, secondary characters and sometimes...sometimes dimensions of the character, no matter how small, shine through to give you a taste of satisfaction for reading the story in the first place.
Getting some things right should at least constitute more than 2 stars.
So after that rather long-winded explanation of my rating, I will add that the hero of this book was appealing after his unbecoming introduction. He was a slash between cowboy & mountain man who exhibited enough intensity, protectiveness and sweetness to get the job done.
The one he wants is another heroine who needs a new start after a blow dealt by a bad ex-boyfriend(play the violin), and her characterization could have been done SO much better because she has cool stuff about her that threatens to rise to the occasion, but never quite makes an impact.
I give this 3 stars for decent and for its fish-out-of-water plot, with some slightly notable secondary characters.
On the one hand, the fabric of one or both of the main characters is made cheaply or its stitching carelessly unfinished. Sure, I like a flawed character, if he or she is written off a rich or faithful palate. However, I do not like the flaws to come in the form of inconsistencies, shallow conversations for the sake of acknowledgment, or superficial features in the name of "hotness".
This unfinished line is sometimes pervasive and "unfinished" just means that more attention should have been put into the writing and/or craft.
On the other hand, plot devices that are used well, like setting, chemistry between the main man and woman, secondary characters and sometimes...sometimes dimensions of the character, no matter how small, shine through to give you a taste of satisfaction for reading the story in the first place.
Getting some things right should at least constitute more than 2 stars.
So after that rather long-winded explanation of my rating, I will add that the hero of this book was appealing after his unbecoming introduction. He was a slash between cowboy & mountain man who exhibited enough intensity, protectiveness and sweetness to get the job done.
The one he wants is another heroine who needs a new start after a blow dealt by a bad ex-boyfriend(play the violin), and her characterization could have been done SO much better because she has cool stuff about her that threatens to rise to the occasion, but never quite makes an impact.
I give this 3 stars for decent and for its fish-out-of-water plot, with some slightly notable secondary characters.
June 10, 2015
3.5 stars
Very enjoyable read. Much better than I expected and a lot steamer than I could have hoped for.
A bit of insta-love going on, but it didn't rub me the wrong way. It all felt quite natural. Gage is a giant grizzly bear size man who's never met the right woman to settle down with... Until he meets Summer, of course, a woman who's moved to Montana from sunny California to escape a douchey ex. The storyline is very cliche and there was nothing surprising or any twists to the story. And while that usually gets me going, it didn't deter me from continuing my reading. The writing is excellent and I really liked all the characters.
I haven't read the Rainshadow series, which the Barringer Brothers is a spin-off of, but you don't have to in order to enjoy this book. There are several references to characters from this series and it only encouraged me to pick up this series.
Very enjoyable read. Much better than I expected and a lot steamer than I could have hoped for.
A bit of insta-love going on, but it didn't rub me the wrong way. It all felt quite natural. Gage is a giant grizzly bear size man who's never met the right woman to settle down with... Until he meets Summer, of course, a woman who's moved to Montana from sunny California to escape a douchey ex. The storyline is very cliche and there was nothing surprising or any twists to the story. And while that usually gets me going, it didn't deter me from continuing my reading. The writing is excellent and I really liked all the characters.
I haven't read the Rainshadow series, which the Barringer Brothers is a spin-off of, but you don't have to in order to enjoy this book. There are several references to characters from this series and it only encouraged me to pick up this series.
June 19, 2015
I got this as a freebie on Amazon. It's not the kind of book I would have paid for, but it was entertaining enough. Everything that happened was incredibly cliché and convenient, from multiple life-threatening incidents where Gage could "save" Summer, to ex-boyfriends being douches and showing up out of the blue, to the man who has never committed to anyone falling for this chick in about a week and changing his bachelor ways. It was definitely one of those two-attractive-people-finding-each-other-attractive-and-calling-it-love situations. It felt underdeveloped and a bit forced, but to be honest, I wasn't expecting much in the first place so it was fine.
October 24, 2014
I received this for an honest review. I have to say that once I started this I could not put it down. I enjoyed the story and the holy hotness of this book. This is the first book I have read by this author and I have to say that it will not be my last. I read this as a standalone I believe that I didn't miss out on anything. I will be diving into more of these books. I CANT WAIT!!!!
June 21, 2015
My favorite Tess Oliver book so far.
May 5, 2024
No surprises but sometimes that is exactly what you need.
October 10, 2014
I've made no secret of the fact that I am a huge fan of Tess Oliver's writing, The woman was born to write; each story incorporating everything I need in a novel- a lifetime of emotion, drama, sex, angst, conflictions, atonements and love, all in the span of a few hundred pages.
I also believe that as a fan of her work the pressure is more substantial to make each story and cast of characters stand out and tell his/her story in a way that keeps me as a reader enthralled in comparison to someone who is being introduced to Tess's work for the first time. But the pressure continues for the next book I 'm afraid because Gage completely blew me away.
If you haven't read the previous Barringer Brother's books in this series fear not as Gage can be read as a stand-alone, (although if you love sexy fast-paced MC/DEA covert operations you'll love the Rain Shadow books in the Barringer Brother series).
Gage is a million miles in the other direction from his brother Luke's saga. As a troubled teenager Gage was unceremoniously dumped onto his granddad's lap in the wilds of Montana in order to straighten him out, an act that still bears internal scars and subtle abandonment fears within the adult Gage as we witness later on in the book. His occupation of logging plays throughout this story with Tess portraying perfectly how difficult and back breaking and ultimately dangerous the job is for him but she writes it in such a knowledgeable and interesting way that I was gasping or cringing with every incident or near miss. Gage is sublime. He's a picture perfect, muscle-bound, sexy stoic with a tremendous work ethic and heart of gold under an exterior of indifference. What better match to his stoicism than that of the aptly named Summer, a bubbly talkative transplant singer from Hollywood who retreats to Montana and her grandfather's failing restaurant to right some wrongs and lick some fresh wounds. Summer was a lovely refreshing strong lead, willing to fight and work for the things she wanted and once her world and Gage's collided the story carried me heart and soul right along with it.
There's nothing I love more than my female and male lead having a bit of comedic banter and witty to-ing and fro-ing and in Gage and Summer I got plenty. She's sassy to his dryness and he's flirty to her shyness, a perfect balance in each other. Although the story is a bit more slow-paced than that of Luke's it in no way detracts from the enjoyment, we simply get a lot of good progressive characterisation and sexual tension with a good dose of drama and angst threw into the mix. The supporting characters where a nice addition and I got a good feel of small town community where everyone takes care of each other and to be perfectly honest it's my dream to own a cabin in the middle of nowhere with a hunky mountain man to keep me warm at night.
It was also lovely to see some familiar names again so as always (and now expected I might add) Tess delivers a story with heart and depth that's so well written I nearly wept when I realised I was at the 99% mark on my e-reader. Brilliant sparkling players, incredibly interesting plot with good development and a fantastic butterfly inducing love story. Watch out for the tattoo scene- I was a liquefied puddle of lust after that scene (my husband thanks you).
I also believe that as a fan of her work the pressure is more substantial to make each story and cast of characters stand out and tell his/her story in a way that keeps me as a reader enthralled in comparison to someone who is being introduced to Tess's work for the first time. But the pressure continues for the next book I 'm afraid because Gage completely blew me away.
If you haven't read the previous Barringer Brother's books in this series fear not as Gage can be read as a stand-alone, (although if you love sexy fast-paced MC/DEA covert operations you'll love the Rain Shadow books in the Barringer Brother series).
Gage is a million miles in the other direction from his brother Luke's saga. As a troubled teenager Gage was unceremoniously dumped onto his granddad's lap in the wilds of Montana in order to straighten him out, an act that still bears internal scars and subtle abandonment fears within the adult Gage as we witness later on in the book. His occupation of logging plays throughout this story with Tess portraying perfectly how difficult and back breaking and ultimately dangerous the job is for him but she writes it in such a knowledgeable and interesting way that I was gasping or cringing with every incident or near miss. Gage is sublime. He's a picture perfect, muscle-bound, sexy stoic with a tremendous work ethic and heart of gold under an exterior of indifference. What better match to his stoicism than that of the aptly named Summer, a bubbly talkative transplant singer from Hollywood who retreats to Montana and her grandfather's failing restaurant to right some wrongs and lick some fresh wounds. Summer was a lovely refreshing strong lead, willing to fight and work for the things she wanted and once her world and Gage's collided the story carried me heart and soul right along with it.
There's nothing I love more than my female and male lead having a bit of comedic banter and witty to-ing and fro-ing and in Gage and Summer I got plenty. She's sassy to his dryness and he's flirty to her shyness, a perfect balance in each other. Although the story is a bit more slow-paced than that of Luke's it in no way detracts from the enjoyment, we simply get a lot of good progressive characterisation and sexual tension with a good dose of drama and angst threw into the mix. The supporting characters where a nice addition and I got a good feel of small town community where everyone takes care of each other and to be perfectly honest it's my dream to own a cabin in the middle of nowhere with a hunky mountain man to keep me warm at night.
It was also lovely to see some familiar names again so as always (and now expected I might add) Tess delivers a story with heart and depth that's so well written I nearly wept when I realised I was at the 99% mark on my e-reader. Brilliant sparkling players, incredibly interesting plot with good development and a fantastic butterfly inducing love story. Watch out for the tattoo scene- I was a liquefied puddle of lust after that scene (my husband thanks you).
June 11, 2015
Gage is the first book in the Barringer Brother series . This is the first book I have actually read by Tess Oliver.
Gage is a logger / rancher with a naughty streak that runs a mile long . The men don't really like him and the women want to get into his pants . He hasn't had a serious relationship in forever . That changes the first moment he meets Summer Donavon , the new owner of the restaurant he was trying to buy. That's when the fire works start . Their first meeting was just after he broke the sink in the ladies room . While having well just let your imagination wander. He was so arrogant and kind of angry at the beginning of the book. He is all alpha but does let his sweet side come through more and more .
Summer Donavon is a female character that has a back bone, she has had her share of heart break too. She was propositioned by the head of the record label and her boyfriend cheated on her on the same day . So Gage is going to be no problem so she thought . As they keep running into each other and realize that they live five minutes from each other. She tries to keep him at arms length but it gets harder and harder .
I really liked the story and the characters . They felt like real people with real problems . They are attracted to each other but don't want to get hurt . There is a lot of sexual tension and flirting that goes on between the two of them . It is fun to watch. And the sex scenes well they are hot , hot , hot
There is just one little thing that I found very distracting was all the logging scenes , I wish the author would of toned that down just a bit, and kept up the banter between Gage and Summer going . That sexual tension was soo dam good. Another thing is it just ended we see them getting back together and it just stops , no epilogue or anything .
Over all I really liked this book, it was a fast read for me and I think you could read it in an afternoon. This would be a good addition to your summer reading list . You will be taken on a funfilled ride with lots of sexiness to go along with it .
October 16, 2014
Kindly provided with an ARC for an honest review.....you know me, so here goes.
H.O.T damn.......Gage......purrrrfect !!!
Wow, just when I think Tess has hit her max with the smokin', alpha hunks of men, she produces yet another drool worthy leading male in a story!!!
Quick summary....
Gage, is the brother of Luke from the Barringer Bros series and this book is his story.....hallelujah !!!
Our leading lady is Summer and oh yeah people, she is just as awesome as Angel was in her and Luke's books. That's a fact.
Quick pearl of wisdom....You can read this book as a stand alone, but I would just REALLY urge you to read the full series to date to get the full glory that is the Barringer men ;0).
Gage, strong, silent, hardworking and just an iddy, biddy bit of a man-whore (sorry my beautiful Gage. You carnt help being so wanted by the female population). He meets Summer when he sets out to buy her grandfathers bar in town. Obviously this little deal does not go according to Gage's plan.
But from a readers POV I am glad it didn't as the dialogue was hilarious. Witty banter, steamy chemistry.....the whole works between him and Summer !!
As always Tess spices the story up with including hunky characters from the BB series - Jericho and Seth. These guys just added a lust filled presence to the story in my opinion....just sayin'. I loved that *fans self* !!!!. Let me be Richo's leading chick - green eye's, brown hair, 5ft 7, size 10 (US).....need any more specifics Tess ? ha ha.
So without any further delay just get your copy of GAGE. Hell get ALL of Tess's books to date. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED. She is one hell of a fantastic writer.
5 Smoldering, smiley stars from me !!
Thanks for the opportunity Tess xx
H.O.T damn.......Gage......purrrrfect !!!
Wow, just when I think Tess has hit her max with the smokin', alpha hunks of men, she produces yet another drool worthy leading male in a story!!!
Quick summary....
Gage, is the brother of Luke from the Barringer Bros series and this book is his story.....hallelujah !!!
Our leading lady is Summer and oh yeah people, she is just as awesome as Angel was in her and Luke's books. That's a fact.
Quick pearl of wisdom....You can read this book as a stand alone, but I would just REALLY urge you to read the full series to date to get the full glory that is the Barringer men ;0).
Gage, strong, silent, hardworking and just an iddy, biddy bit of a man-whore (sorry my beautiful Gage. You carnt help being so wanted by the female population). He meets Summer when he sets out to buy her grandfathers bar in town. Obviously this little deal does not go according to Gage's plan.
But from a readers POV I am glad it didn't as the dialogue was hilarious. Witty banter, steamy chemistry.....the whole works between him and Summer !!
As always Tess spices the story up with including hunky characters from the BB series - Jericho and Seth. These guys just added a lust filled presence to the story in my opinion....just sayin'. I loved that *fans self* !!!!. Let me be Richo's leading chick - green eye's, brown hair, 5ft 7, size 10 (US).....need any more specifics Tess ? ha ha.
So without any further delay just get your copy of GAGE. Hell get ALL of Tess's books to date. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED. She is one hell of a fantastic writer.
5 Smoldering, smiley stars from me !!
Thanks for the opportunity Tess xx
October 15, 2014
I can’t even express how much I was feeling this book!!
I was wondering after finishing the Rain Shadow series if Gage would flow right along as did the other books in the series.
And… Let me tell you… it did!!! I felt like it flowed right along after the last book in the Rain Shadow series… And I mean writing wise… Everything just seemed to connect…
I loved it!!! I mean really loved it!
The story had just enough of everything… No overly drama. I just couldn’t get enough. I read it in 2 days!!(would have been 1 day… If it wasn’t for my wifely/motherly duties!!)
Gage is a very private…quite… man whore…
He has been around the block a few times…(the bathroom scene…That was pretty hot!!)
He never thought there would be a girl out there to tame him or catch is eye like his brother Luke.
Once Gage saw Summer… Well.. Let’s just say… It was kind of a bumpy start for them.
Slowly but surly…she broke down his walls…
Summer has always done what other people wanted her to do. What her mother wanted… What her band wanted… Never really putting herself first.
Summer was in a long term relationship when she walked in on her boyfriend doing something he should have never been doing with a person that was suppose to be a “best friend”.
She moves to Montana to start a new life.
When she meets Gage for the first time…
Well… Let’s just say… He rubbed her the wrong way.
I loved how they both came together in this book. I loved how summers corky self just melted Gage walls. They just worked together well…
I’m absolutely loving Tess’s books and I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Would I recommend this book to other people… Yes.. I would.
Would I read books by this author…
Yes… I would…
*ARC provided by author for an honest review*
-Michelle
I was wondering after finishing the Rain Shadow series if Gage would flow right along as did the other books in the series.
And… Let me tell you… it did!!! I felt like it flowed right along after the last book in the Rain Shadow series… And I mean writing wise… Everything just seemed to connect…
I loved it!!! I mean really loved it!
The story had just enough of everything… No overly drama. I just couldn’t get enough. I read it in 2 days!!(would have been 1 day… If it wasn’t for my wifely/motherly duties!!)
Gage is a very private…quite… man whore…
He has been around the block a few times…(the bathroom scene…That was pretty hot!!)
He never thought there would be a girl out there to tame him or catch is eye like his brother Luke.
Once Gage saw Summer… Well.. Let’s just say… It was kind of a bumpy start for them.
Slowly but surly…she broke down his walls…
Summer has always done what other people wanted her to do. What her mother wanted… What her band wanted… Never really putting herself first.
Summer was in a long term relationship when she walked in on her boyfriend doing something he should have never been doing with a person that was suppose to be a “best friend”.
She moves to Montana to start a new life.
When she meets Gage for the first time…
Well… Let’s just say… He rubbed her the wrong way.
I loved how they both came together in this book. I loved how summers corky self just melted Gage walls. They just worked together well…
I’m absolutely loving Tess’s books and I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Would I recommend this book to other people… Yes.. I would.
Would I read books by this author…
Yes… I would…
*ARC provided by author for an honest review*
-Michelle
October 16, 2014
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
After Summer declines the Recording Executive sexual advances only to go home to find her boyfriend and (band mate) in bed with her best friend she decides that moving to Montana to run her grandfather's restaurant. Raven's Nest, is for the best.
Gage is looking to change his line of work, logging is dangerous hazardous work. He wants to buy the Raven's Nest and make something out of it. Since the owner died it has been running down and losing money. Gage can see the potential it holds. But before he can buy it he finds out it's no longer for sale and the owner's granddaughter, Summer, has come to run the Raven's Nest.
Can the California girl make it through a Montana winter? Will she be able to make the Raven's Nest into something more?
This was my first Barringer Brother's book and I have to say it will not be my last. I loved it! I immediately fell in love with Gage. The characters had depth and were interesting. I found myself falling into the story and not wanting it to end. Such a sweet love story. I can't wait to start at the beginning and find out more about these brothers and the story behind Luke and being "gobsmacked".
After Summer declines the Recording Executive sexual advances only to go home to find her boyfriend and (band mate) in bed with her best friend she decides that moving to Montana to run her grandfather's restaurant. Raven's Nest, is for the best.
Gage is looking to change his line of work, logging is dangerous hazardous work. He wants to buy the Raven's Nest and make something out of it. Since the owner died it has been running down and losing money. Gage can see the potential it holds. But before he can buy it he finds out it's no longer for sale and the owner's granddaughter, Summer, has come to run the Raven's Nest.
Can the California girl make it through a Montana winter? Will she be able to make the Raven's Nest into something more?
This was my first Barringer Brother's book and I have to say it will not be my last. I loved it! I immediately fell in love with Gage. The characters had depth and were interesting. I found myself falling into the story and not wanting it to end. Such a sweet love story. I can't wait to start at the beginning and find out more about these brothers and the story behind Luke and being "gobsmacked".
October 9, 2014
Okay so first of all there has not been a book by Tess Oliver that I have not loved and this one is no exception! I think my new favorite book boyfriend is Gage Barringer! I love his whole mountain manly man persona, his loyalty, humility, and protectiveness that is demonstrated throughout this book and to top off that cake with delicious frosting he is one hot amazing guy! I loved Gage and "Hollywood's" little love story, both characters are endearing and you cannot help but love them and want them to find the ONE in each other! I kinda loved Summer (main girl character) one because she was kinda independent (didn't really take shit from people) and two she was a singer, yes singers have a personal place in my heart, anyway, I wish this book was longer because I did not want the story to end so soon and I didn't want the little world that was painted in the mountains of Montana to be gone (though I prefer Montana summers lol). So overall I loooved this book and can put it on my shelf of favorites especially favorites with awesome hot guys and a little raciness to go with it! I highly recommend all of Tess Oliver's books, the Freefall series is amazing and now the Barringer Brother series which just keeps getting better and better!
October 19, 2014
Favorite Quotes:
“You’ve always been a pro at tossing out a golden nugget of hope and then snatching it back with the black, greedy hand of doom.”
“A scared rabbit would have run. As I recall, you were threatening them with your menacing curtain rods.”
“And, somehow, I can’t picture your brother grumpy. He seems like the kind of guy who would chuckle through a root canal.”
My Review:
This is the first Tess Oliver book I have read – I know, I know - slap me on the back of the head already! I have truly been missing out on these entertaining delights if all her books are like this one. Her writing is moving, sensuous, amusing, heartfelt, realistic, insightful, humbling, and just - damn good. Some of her characters sound like bad boys that would probably look scary and intimidating to me if I glimpsed them on the street, although Ms. Oliver presented them to me as endearing brothers, lovers, boyfriends, hard workers, caring humans, aspiring entrepreneurs, etc. After checking her massive Goodreads list – I see I have a lot of catching up to do and hopefully many more humbling moments in my future.
“You’ve always been a pro at tossing out a golden nugget of hope and then snatching it back with the black, greedy hand of doom.”
“A scared rabbit would have run. As I recall, you were threatening them with your menacing curtain rods.”
“And, somehow, I can’t picture your brother grumpy. He seems like the kind of guy who would chuckle through a root canal.”
My Review:
This is the first Tess Oliver book I have read – I know, I know - slap me on the back of the head already! I have truly been missing out on these entertaining delights if all her books are like this one. Her writing is moving, sensuous, amusing, heartfelt, realistic, insightful, humbling, and just - damn good. Some of her characters sound like bad boys that would probably look scary and intimidating to me if I glimpsed them on the street, although Ms. Oliver presented them to me as endearing brothers, lovers, boyfriends, hard workers, caring humans, aspiring entrepreneurs, etc. After checking her massive Goodreads list – I see I have a lot of catching up to do and hopefully many more humbling moments in my future.
October 17, 2014
I have fallen for the Barringer brothers. All of them have their own unique personality that you jusy can not help but love. Gage is the serious and sensual older brother. I love his possessiveness that he shows in this book that is even a surprise to him. And it is delicious! I was hoping Tess could get a great character going for him. Although I did not like Summer at first, I thought she did not have a back bone or faith in herself. I loved how she grew into someone she could appreciate and she has a lot to give. I am happy she finally stood up for herself and what I loved most of all is the quirkiness that comes with being a California girl. The romance they share is timid at first, with them denying their feelings but once they accept it, its all consuming. All the supporting characters are amazing, funny and will put you in your place. I am excited to read more of them in the future.
October 13, 2014
Our girl Summer has some balls and can take care of herself, "please, Logan, don't call me babe. Even if you didn't mean to hit me with the mug, it doesn't matter. The damage was done when you crawled into our bed with Chrissy." Gage has no filter like seriously that boy just spouts things off, "eyes turned toward Gage. "Absoeffinglutely." I looked back at him. "Oh come on- that great a** of yours is just begging to be spanked." He's considerate and patient as well, "I won't finish until you come, Summer," he whispered. "I promise." Then a wicked smile crossed his face. "But not pressure." He's a dirty talker as well which I loved, "god, baby, every inch of you is like silk. I can't stop touching you." His solt, sensual words caused me to push my a** out hard against him, and I spread my legs farther for his hand. "That's right, baby, open up wide for me." There were even a few characters that we knew for the other books, so I was quite pleased to see them.
October 17, 2014
"I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads."
This is a standalone novel, although there are other Barringer Brother books - and the reader gets to hear about some of their adventures here.
I would score this at 4.5, if I could. It was a very enjoyable story, and there were really some lovely bits, such as the tattoo reveals. There were some funny moments too, such as when she goes into the barn, but at times I felt the plot was too busy. Both Gage and Summer get to tell the story from their POV, so we know where their heads and hearts are from pretty early on - and we learn about their backgrounds and aspirations.
I have added Ms Oliver's other books to my wish list, so I shall be meeting Gage again!
This is a standalone novel, although there are other Barringer Brother books - and the reader gets to hear about some of their adventures here.
I would score this at 4.5, if I could. It was a very enjoyable story, and there were really some lovely bits, such as the tattoo reveals. There were some funny moments too, such as when she goes into the barn, but at times I felt the plot was too busy. Both Gage and Summer get to tell the story from their POV, so we know where their heads and hearts are from pretty early on - and we learn about their backgrounds and aspirations.
I have added Ms Oliver's other books to my wish list, so I shall be meeting Gage again!
October 18, 2014
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
The author takes her time introducing us to Summer and Gage and the story is told from both points of view. We meet Gage and Summer and have time to learn about who they are, their hopes and dreams and their problems with life before the author brings them together. There is no love at first sight in this book and I loved the slow build up.
This is a light hearted, small town romance and I was completely sucked in by the story. Both characters are hard working, honest people and very likeable.
I did fell the end of the story was a little rushed but overall it is a great book. Gage is the first book I've read by Tess Oliver but I won't be the last.
The author takes her time introducing us to Summer and Gage and the story is told from both points of view. We meet Gage and Summer and have time to learn about who they are, their hopes and dreams and their problems with life before the author brings them together. There is no love at first sight in this book and I loved the slow build up.
This is a light hearted, small town romance and I was completely sucked in by the story. Both characters are hard working, honest people and very likeable.
I did fell the end of the story was a little rushed but overall it is a great book. Gage is the first book I've read by Tess Oliver but I won't be the last.
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