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Love is Blind #1
Ever the Same
A Love is Blind Novel
Audie Barrack is in it up to his elbows with a sick calf when his son’s school calls. Seems Grainger has gotten into yet another fight. When he walks into the principal’s office, he’s shocked to find his son has been fighting with a little girl named Randi.
A little girl with one blind dad and one dad who recently passed away.
Goddammit.
Dixon has lost his sight, his career, and his husband. Thank God for his brothers, Momma and Daddy, and his little girl, or he would simply give up. The last thing he needs is for Randi to start trouble at school, especially trouble that puts him in contact with another dad who might expect him to be a functional human being.
Dixon is struggling to live as a blind man, Audie is terrified someone might see he has a closet to come out of, and everyone from the school to both men’s families is worried for the men and their children. Unless they get themselves together and commit to change, neither of them stands a chance.
Audie Barrack is in it up to his elbows with a sick calf when his son’s school calls. Seems Grainger has gotten into yet another fight. When he walks into the principal’s office, he’s shocked to find his son has been fighting with a little girl named Randi.
A little girl with one blind dad and one dad who recently passed away.
Goddammit.
Dixon has lost his sight, his career, and his husband. Thank God for his brothers, Momma and Daddy, and his little girl, or he would simply give up. The last thing he needs is for Randi to start trouble at school, especially trouble that puts him in contact with another dad who might expect him to be a functional human being.
Dixon is struggling to live as a blind man, Audie is terrified someone might see he has a closet to come out of, and everyone from the school to both men’s families is worried for the men and their children. Unless they get themselves together and commit to change, neither of them stands a chance.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2015
102 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
About the author
B.A. Tortuga
382 books632 followersTexan to the bone and an unrepentant Daddy's Girl, BA Tortuga spends her days with her hounds and her beloved wife, texting her grandbabies, and eating Mexican food. When she's not doing that, she's writing. She spends her days off watching rodeo, knitting, and surfing Pinterest in the name of research. Following their own personal joys, BA and Julia heard the call of the high desert and they now live in the New Mexico mountains. BA's personal saviors include her wife, her best friends, and coffee. Lots of coffee. Really good coffee.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
October 24, 2015
I could lie and say I wasn't disappointed with the entirety of the story but I'm not going to. The problem most likely lays within my tastes. This book has gotten a lot of 4 to 5 star ratings so obviously it's my fault I didn't love it. I guess what I didn't like about the book the most was the dialogue. Sometimes, as I previously said in my update, I just didn't feel like I was reading about two grown men. They had a way of sounding like two teenagers conversing with each about 'how cool' things were or other things 'totally rocked'. Their conversations lacked maturity. Only sometimes though, it wasn't a constant occurrence. But when it did happen it was so annoying for me. That was my only big tiff with the story.
On the other hand what I did enjoy was some of the sweet moments the guys had together. They really did care for one another and for the well being of each other. They both had over pressing mothers. I could be annoyed by Dixon's ma, but absolutely did not like Audie's mother. She was a closed minded rude cunt. Yes, I said cunt. I did not like her high mighty superiority ass one bit.
THE KIDS! They were adorable and probably the best part of the book. The yes sirs and yes ma'am's made them so precious. I loved when they were on the page. I also loved the relationships between the father's and their children. The love for their babies are shown clearly on every page they interact with their kids. I loved this part of the book the most.
So do I regret buying the book? No. Do I regret spending more than $5 on the book? Yes. LOL
On the other hand what I did enjoy was some of the sweet moments the guys had together. They really did care for one another and for the well being of each other. They both had over pressing mothers. I could be annoyed by Dixon's ma, but absolutely did not like Audie's mother. She was a closed minded rude cunt. Yes, I said cunt. I did not like her high mighty superiority ass one bit.
THE KIDS! They were adorable and probably the best part of the book. The yes sirs and yes ma'am's made them so precious. I loved when they were on the page. I also loved the relationships between the father's and their children. The love for their babies are shown clearly on every page they interact with their kids. I loved this part of the book the most.
So do I regret buying the book? No. Do I regret spending more than $5 on the book? Yes. LOL
March 1, 2015
This will appeal to a lot of people I'm sure. It's a nice story.
The characters are all likable, especially the kids. ADORABLE!
Personally I found it a bit drawn out, especially conversations (which were also a bit choppy), but maybe it seemed that way because I didn't feel very attached to either MC.
I understand where Dixon's frustration came from, and thankfully Audie was real sweet with him.
But that was it.
It was nice, but not a page-turner for me :/
The characters are all likable, especially the kids. ADORABLE!
Personally I found it a bit drawn out, especially conversations (which were also a bit choppy), but maybe it seemed that way because I didn't feel very attached to either MC.
I understand where Dixon's frustration came from, and thankfully Audie was real sweet with him.
But that was it.
It was nice, but not a page-turner for me :/
July 20, 2020
WOW ! This is a hidden gem ! Not everyone saw what I saw in this story.
So, IMO, in-my-opinion....
Sweet Dixon lost his husband and his sight in an accident. Luckily their little daughter, now 6, wasn't in the car. Dixon is a musician, and sound wiz,
a beautiful, long haired man, doing the best he can and wishing he could do more.
He needs "blind" school, but Miranda/Randi has been his priority, not going away to school and leaving her.
They are in Texas, and meet cowboy Audie,
who works his parents ranch, training horses, and raising his son, Grainger, 6. The guys are in mid twenties, and Audie isn't "out."
Our guys meet and are interested in each other. We get their inner thoughts, deep passion, gentle talks, and lots of fun and banter. The kids are realistic and cute. The sexy times are sizzle and sparks, and so fulfilling. We see how well they get along, and see how the four could really form a family. Plus, we see the family and how they react, how the mean remarks are hurtful, both because of the gay factor, and the horrible comments made about Dixon being blind, worthless, etc. Neither can believe their families could be that cold-hearted.
Dixon and Audie stick together, back each other up, and go to Austin to get stuff from Dixon's old house. It's a revealing trip, and much gets decided.
This is a full bodied tale of bonding and forming a family, when you find the right person for you. Our guys will fight for each other, and do what's best for their newly forming family.
I loved this story. Highly recommend it. I'm going to read the second book in this duet.
ENJOY !
=======
Thank you dearest Jenny for the recommendation !
=======
So, IMO, in-my-opinion....
Sweet Dixon lost his husband and his sight in an accident. Luckily their little daughter, now 6, wasn't in the car. Dixon is a musician, and sound wiz,
a beautiful, long haired man, doing the best he can and wishing he could do more.
He needs "blind" school, but Miranda/Randi has been his priority, not going away to school and leaving her.
They are in Texas, and meet cowboy Audie,
who works his parents ranch, training horses, and raising his son, Grainger, 6. The guys are in mid twenties, and Audie isn't "out."
Our guys meet and are interested in each other. We get their inner thoughts, deep passion, gentle talks, and lots of fun and banter. The kids are realistic and cute. The sexy times are sizzle and sparks, and so fulfilling. We see how well they get along, and see how the four could really form a family. Plus, we see the family and how they react, how the mean remarks are hurtful, both because of the gay factor, and the horrible comments made about Dixon being blind, worthless, etc. Neither can believe their families could be that cold-hearted.
Dixon and Audie stick together, back each other up, and go to Austin to get stuff from Dixon's old house. It's a revealing trip, and much gets decided.
This is a full bodied tale of bonding and forming a family, when you find the right person for you. Our guys will fight for each other, and do what's best for their newly forming family.
I loved this story. Highly recommend it. I'm going to read the second book in this duet.
ENJOY !
=======
Thank you dearest Jenny for the recommendation !
=======
February 23, 2015
2.75 stars
After reading Say Something and The Terms of Release I was so enthralled with B.A. Tortuga. She had this way with her words that just brought out all type of emotions within me. Both books were 5 star reads. Reading this my expectations was super high. I really wanted to like that. It was okay for me. I didn’t feel connected to the characters or the circumstances in the story.
This had all the elements of things I love. Hurt/comfort, children, disabilities and cowboys are all my happy spots, and I did enjoy some of them tremendously. I liked that both mc’s had children in not the most conventional way. I did like that both guys were good parents and had flaws. Parenthood isn’t easy.
What bothered me the most was the writing, and while both her previous books had locations in Texas this one felt different. I don’t know if they talk different, but it felt choppy when they talked. It felt disjointed in the writing and I had a hard time finishing it. I enjoyed both guy’s support system. I do feel like it just happened between one day and the next for the two guys. It was no level of attraction but bam it happened. I got confused when the point of view changes happened suddenly. All in all it was okay for me. I’m not thrilled by it and I will continue to read her work.
After reading Say Something and The Terms of Release I was so enthralled with B.A. Tortuga. She had this way with her words that just brought out all type of emotions within me. Both books were 5 star reads. Reading this my expectations was super high. I really wanted to like that. It was okay for me. I didn’t feel connected to the characters or the circumstances in the story.
This had all the elements of things I love. Hurt/comfort, children, disabilities and cowboys are all my happy spots, and I did enjoy some of them tremendously. I liked that both mc’s had children in not the most conventional way. I did like that both guys were good parents and had flaws. Parenthood isn’t easy.
What bothered me the most was the writing, and while both her previous books had locations in Texas this one felt different. I don’t know if they talk different, but it felt choppy when they talked. It felt disjointed in the writing and I had a hard time finishing it. I enjoyed both guy’s support system. I do feel like it just happened between one day and the next for the two guys. It was no level of attraction but bam it happened. I got confused when the point of view changes happened suddenly. All in all it was okay for me. I’m not thrilled by it and I will continue to read her work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2020
This is an amazing story and I loved it from beginning to end. Told with a great deal of humor, it is a very touching story about two men who need to find their place in life while dealing with situations that would have most well-adjusted people struggle. Both men don’t just have their own past and present situations to deal with, but they also have young children with issues and needs, and families who like to meddle and think they know what’s best for them. I was involved from the first page to the last, and loved how BA Tortuga handled the problems of parenthood, learning to deal with being blind, and fighting for what is right for your children in the face of well-meant but utterly wrong advice from so-called experts.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
April 5, 2015
I loved this from beginning to end for the romance and the build but what I liked most of all was that the characterizations never wavered. Both men were so grounded and well developed and while I saw growth and change, it was consistent all the way through and I really enjoyed that. Highly recommended.
September 26, 2016
This book starts really well! I like the plot and the character introductions.
Also the LOW angst was OK.
BUT around the 33% their relationship come together in very abrupt mode in my opinion. And goes totally down from there. Not many happy moments :(
2.5*
Also the LOW angst was OK.
BUT around the 33% their relationship come together in very abrupt mode in my opinion. And goes totally down from there. Not many happy moments :(
2.5*
March 14, 2016
This one really should have worked better than it did...
I love the elements involved in this story. We have a closeted cowboy, a tattooed, rocker boy who's lost his partner in an MVA and been blinded in said accident. Both of these men are parents to young children.
In the cowboy's (Audie) case he's the father of a little boy named Grainger. Grainger has a momma, she just couldn't get out of town fast enough once he was born. Dixon's little girl is Miranda or Randi as she's more frequently called. These men meet when Randi gives Grainger a black eye in the schoolyard and everyone gets hauled into the principal's office. (Ironically this is something I can relate to because back in the day my parents got hauled into the principals office when I gave the class bully a black-eye in the first grade).
Things started out really well and I was totally smitten with the story that was being given to me and then we hit a big stalling point because our two MCs couldn't keep their pants on. Don't get me wrong I'm down with the hot sexy times. I think it's a normal healthy part of a relationship but for me when I start rolling my eyes and skimming the pages because well...frankly...I was starting to get bored to tears because 'the boys were at it again' it really was time for the story to move on a bit, for some progress to be made in the plot.
Thankfully this did happen somewhere just past the 50% mark. Things were getting interesting again the boys weren't having as many sexy moments but that was cool because there was stuff happening and their relationship was progressing. Sadly what I feared might happen did and that was the fact that for me the last part of the story felt like it had been sacrificed and things were cut short. I really wanted to see these guys find their way to a comfortable life together, to see where their plans had taken them and how they'd resolved some of the issues and conflicts they had to deal with. What it felt like was that I got a peek at them a glimpse that said yeah our boys are ok and they all lived HEA! and dammit! I wanted more.
Now as to the characters in this book there was Audie and his adorable son, Grainger.
Audie's our closeted cowboy. He may not have a fancy college diploma or a university degree but thankfully he's got a truckload of common sense, determination.
Next we have Dixon and his equally adorable daughter, Randi.
Dixon's our tattooed rocker, gone blind-guy. He's a ginger (let's hear it for the ginger), he's more of a city boy. He and Randi are both trying to figure out how to make their lives work again after the accident that took Dixon's partner and Randi's other daddy away from them. Randi's angry at the world because of all the changes in her life that have come with the loss of her daddy Ron. In spite of all this Randi's still trying really hard to be a good girl for her remaining daddy. Dixon's determined to be around to at least see Randi to adulthood he's just not sure what to do next and his biggest problem is his freakin' parents...especially his mother. On one hand she's telling him he needs to learn how to manage being blind so he can be a more functional person but on the other hand she wants to put him in a cage so he won't get hurt. Sorry, momma' in case you didn't notice he's already been about as freakin' hurt as you can get. He's lost not only his eyesight but the love of his life. What you need to do isn't keep him from being hurt it's give him the love and support he needs to go pick himself up, dust himself off and get back out there into the world.
Sadly Dixon's mom isn't the worst of what these men have to deal with...nope, I'm giving that award to Audie's mom. That woman made me want to hurl my e-reader across the room.
In some ways this was a good read for me because the author made me feel invested in the characters. I wanted them to be together, to succeed in their relationship. I wanted Dixon to find his way in the world again and they did and he did. But too much of it happened off page for me so I felt rushed and the HEA that these two men got didn't leaving me feeling totally satisfied because I missed too much of it.
I've read a number of books by this author and compared to the books in her 'Road Trip' or 'Stormy Weather' series or 'The Release' series and standalones such as 'Old Town New', 'The Long Road Home', 'Just Like In The Movies', 'Menagerie' or 'Working Jerusalem' and some others this one for me didn't reflect the quality of story that Ms Tortuga is truly capable of. For me it was ok, what it wasn't was awesome.
I love the elements involved in this story. We have a closeted cowboy, a tattooed, rocker boy who's lost his partner in an MVA and been blinded in said accident. Both of these men are parents to young children.
In the cowboy's (Audie) case he's the father of a little boy named Grainger. Grainger has a momma, she just couldn't get out of town fast enough once he was born. Dixon's little girl is Miranda or Randi as she's more frequently called. These men meet when Randi gives Grainger a black eye in the schoolyard and everyone gets hauled into the principal's office. (Ironically this is something I can relate to because back in the day my parents got hauled into the principals office when I gave the class bully a black-eye in the first grade).
Things started out really well and I was totally smitten with the story that was being given to me and then we hit a big stalling point because our two MCs couldn't keep their pants on. Don't get me wrong I'm down with the hot sexy times. I think it's a normal healthy part of a relationship but for me when I start rolling my eyes and skimming the pages because well...frankly...I was starting to get bored to tears because 'the boys were at it again' it really was time for the story to move on a bit, for some progress to be made in the plot.
Thankfully this did happen somewhere just past the 50% mark. Things were getting interesting again the boys weren't having as many sexy moments but that was cool because there was stuff happening and their relationship was progressing. Sadly what I feared might happen did and that was the fact that for me the last part of the story felt like it had been sacrificed and things were cut short. I really wanted to see these guys find their way to a comfortable life together, to see where their plans had taken them and how they'd resolved some of the issues and conflicts they had to deal with. What it felt like was that I got a peek at them a glimpse that said yeah our boys are ok and they all lived HEA! and dammit! I wanted more.
Now as to the characters in this book there was Audie and his adorable son, Grainger.
Audie's our closeted cowboy. He may not have a fancy college diploma or a university degree but thankfully he's got a truckload of common sense, determination.
Next we have Dixon and his equally adorable daughter, Randi.
Dixon's our tattooed rocker, gone blind-guy. He's a ginger (let's hear it for the ginger), he's more of a city boy. He and Randi are both trying to figure out how to make their lives work again after the accident that took Dixon's partner and Randi's other daddy away from them. Randi's angry at the world because of all the changes in her life that have come with the loss of her daddy Ron. In spite of all this Randi's still trying really hard to be a good girl for her remaining daddy. Dixon's determined to be around to at least see Randi to adulthood he's just not sure what to do next and his biggest problem is his freakin' parents...especially his mother. On one hand she's telling him he needs to learn how to manage being blind so he can be a more functional person but on the other hand she wants to put him in a cage so he won't get hurt. Sorry, momma' in case you didn't notice he's already been about as freakin' hurt as you can get. He's lost not only his eyesight but the love of his life. What you need to do isn't keep him from being hurt it's give him the love and support he needs to go pick himself up, dust himself off and get back out there into the world.
Sadly Dixon's mom isn't the worst of what these men have to deal with...nope, I'm giving that award to Audie's mom. That woman made me want to hurl my e-reader across the room.
In some ways this was a good read for me because the author made me feel invested in the characters. I wanted them to be together, to succeed in their relationship. I wanted Dixon to find his way in the world again and they did and he did. But too much of it happened off page for me so I felt rushed and the HEA that these two men got didn't leaving me feeling totally satisfied because I missed too much of it.
I've read a number of books by this author and compared to the books in her 'Road Trip' or 'Stormy Weather' series or 'The Release' series and standalones such as 'Old Town New', 'The Long Road Home', 'Just Like In The Movies', 'Menagerie' or 'Working Jerusalem' and some others this one for me didn't reflect the quality of story that Ms Tortuga is truly capable of. For me it was ok, what it wasn't was awesome.
November 17, 2017
Всегда дурной знак, когда герои их родственники начинают путаться во время чтения.
История милая, даже слишком. Дети как в сказках послушные и умилительные, герои оба правильные, чуткие, ранимые... Под настроение хорошо пойдёт, наверное.
История милая, даже слишком. Дети как в сказках послушные и умилительные, герои оба правильные, чуткие, ранимые... Под настроение хорошо пойдёт, наверное.
March 9, 2015
This touching story had me by the end of the first paragraph. I just loved it. It was emotional, tragic, humorous and enlightening. Chuck in a couple of 6 years olds that love "spasgetti", a horse named Sarge, a couple of guitars and the ending came far too quick.
Audie and Dixon are single Father's who meet when their son & daughter fight at school. It is the start of a friendship that moves both men into looking at a future, which up to then, has been something neither of them had dared think about. Dixon is blind and not coping with his disability, he's coming out of mourning for his husband and trying to cope with Randi, his angry 6-year old daughter who is trying to cope with the changes in her life. Audie is working on his mother's ranch and trying to raise his son the best way he can, but hides his true self, just taking a day at a time. The slow burn relationship starts, not without a few harsh words and comments from family members (I was so angry with Audie's mum's attitude!!) My emotions were all over the place, the descriptions of Dixon's blindness, his worries, his hopelessness at times over simple needs that we take for granted and then fighting for his child! And Audie, just sweet, just caring and compassionate. He sees strength in Dixon, he sees his future their family.
A couple of stand-out scenes were Grainger's birthday, the stubborn set of a small child was so real - I cringed in memory of something similar!! Audie and Dixon first intimate moment and a huge "HELL YEAH!" when they stood up to their parents.... and Dixon's brother Dan, I so wish I had one!
A couple of things I struggled with - the use of the endearment "honey"....it was overly sweet and toothachey. And when the decision to move forward was made, I felt it was a little rushed, I wished there had been just a little more detail on Dixon's attending Blind school and Audie finding his land to ranch.
The epilogue was just bursting with information round a family BBQ, so it ended on a contented HFN, a couple of smirks and an eyeroll. A fab read, recommended.
Audie and Dixon are single Father's who meet when their son & daughter fight at school. It is the start of a friendship that moves both men into looking at a future, which up to then, has been something neither of them had dared think about. Dixon is blind and not coping with his disability, he's coming out of mourning for his husband and trying to cope with Randi, his angry 6-year old daughter who is trying to cope with the changes in her life. Audie is working on his mother's ranch and trying to raise his son the best way he can, but hides his true self, just taking a day at a time. The slow burn relationship starts, not without a few harsh words and comments from family members (I was so angry with Audie's mum's attitude!!) My emotions were all over the place, the descriptions of Dixon's blindness, his worries, his hopelessness at times over simple needs that we take for granted and then fighting for his child! And Audie, just sweet, just caring and compassionate. He sees strength in Dixon, he sees his future their family.
A couple of stand-out scenes were Grainger's birthday, the stubborn set of a small child was so real - I cringed in memory of something similar!! Audie and Dixon first intimate moment and a huge "HELL YEAH!" when they stood up to their parents.... and Dixon's brother Dan, I so wish I had one!
A couple of things I struggled with - the use of the endearment "honey"....it was overly sweet and toothachey. And when the decision to move forward was made, I felt it was a little rushed, I wished there had been just a little more detail on Dixon's attending Blind school and Audie finding his land to ranch.
The epilogue was just bursting with information round a family BBQ, so it ended on a contented HFN, a couple of smirks and an eyeroll. A fab read, recommended.
July 16, 2015
I should really learn that just because my favorite narrator narrated the book doesn't mean the book was meant for me. There is nothing wrong with this book. I was just never able to connect. That could simply be my mood. So it's not the book, it's me.
July 26, 2015
Dixon has had to move in with his parents after losing his husband and his sight. His parents are supportive – to an extent – but there is an underlying tension in the house that keeps Dixon on the edge of miserable.
Audie is a young, single father, working his family ranch because he knows nothing else. His mother is somewhat supportive of him, but doesn’t approve of his being gay and isn’t shy about letting him know it.
Dixon and Audie meet when Randi (Dixon’s daughter) punches Grainger (Audie’s son). Audie pretty much immediately falls for Dixon but it takes awhile for that to play out.
The romance between Dixon and Audie is fairly easy going, their relationship is not. Dixon is a widower, well meaning friends and family worry Audie is a rebound man. Dixon is blind, family members worry that he won’t be able to contribute and that he might not be the best man to raise his own daughter, much less two children. Audie is a landless cowboy (he’s mother won’t put a gay boy in her will) with a child of his own.
Despite all the various obstacles and reasons why this shouldn’t work… it does and it does so beautifully.
**
I really enjoyed this country mouse/city mouse story. The immediate attraction and the acceptance of their romance between themselves let the rest of the story be about each of their own growth.
For all intents and purposes, one wrong decision led to Audie being a single dad, trapped on his family ranch at the age of 25. He’d never gotten to be a single gay man or do any of the other stuff that we do when we are young and carefree. As a result he’s older in some ways but still has a lot of that youth and inexperience in him that was a perfect mix for Dixon.
Dixon had been there and done that. Though he was only 33, he’d had a much more varied life, though not on a ranch! He was a bit jaded, a bit spoiled, a bit insecure, a bit self involved, but so brave. His family didn’t support him – not really – and he felt totally lost.
What I loved was that both men saved each other and the kids helped too. It’s hard to write kids because no two kids are a like and it can be hard to represent that mix of surprisingly mature things that sometimes come out of a young mouth along side the more immature tantrums and such. I think Randi and Grainger are excellent examples of kids done well. Though there were times I thought they were a little too mature, most of the time I really thought they were great.
I loved how the families were represented. They both felt very “gray” to me, meaning not all good and not all bad. So often the family is this all or nothing evil villain when in reality there is usually a mix. Dixon’s parents are well meaning if not fully supportive. Audie’s mom isn’t all bad, though she is pretty judgmental and petty.
Dixon’s reaction to being blind felt pretty appropriate as well, though I did wonder at his relative ease at getting over Ron. I also wondered why Ron’s family was so intent on keeping Randi when Dixon was the biological father, why weren’t his parents taking over?
Overall I thought this was a riveting and wonderful book and I highly recommend it.
Overall 4.6 of 5 stars!
Audio
Paul Morey did an amazing job with this. God I loved his Audey and Dix was PERFECTION. This was such a fun book to listen to with all the different southern accents! I highly recommend this as an audiobook!
6 of 5 stars
Audie is a young, single father, working his family ranch because he knows nothing else. His mother is somewhat supportive of him, but doesn’t approve of his being gay and isn’t shy about letting him know it.
Dixon and Audie meet when Randi (Dixon’s daughter) punches Grainger (Audie’s son). Audie pretty much immediately falls for Dixon but it takes awhile for that to play out.
The romance between Dixon and Audie is fairly easy going, their relationship is not. Dixon is a widower, well meaning friends and family worry Audie is a rebound man. Dixon is blind, family members worry that he won’t be able to contribute and that he might not be the best man to raise his own daughter, much less two children. Audie is a landless cowboy (he’s mother won’t put a gay boy in her will) with a child of his own.
Despite all the various obstacles and reasons why this shouldn’t work… it does and it does so beautifully.
**
I really enjoyed this country mouse/city mouse story. The immediate attraction and the acceptance of their romance between themselves let the rest of the story be about each of their own growth.
For all intents and purposes, one wrong decision led to Audie being a single dad, trapped on his family ranch at the age of 25. He’d never gotten to be a single gay man or do any of the other stuff that we do when we are young and carefree. As a result he’s older in some ways but still has a lot of that youth and inexperience in him that was a perfect mix for Dixon.
Dixon had been there and done that. Though he was only 33, he’d had a much more varied life, though not on a ranch! He was a bit jaded, a bit spoiled, a bit insecure, a bit self involved, but so brave. His family didn’t support him – not really – and he felt totally lost.
What I loved was that both men saved each other and the kids helped too. It’s hard to write kids because no two kids are a like and it can be hard to represent that mix of surprisingly mature things that sometimes come out of a young mouth along side the more immature tantrums and such. I think Randi and Grainger are excellent examples of kids done well. Though there were times I thought they were a little too mature, most of the time I really thought they were great.
I loved how the families were represented. They both felt very “gray” to me, meaning not all good and not all bad. So often the family is this all or nothing evil villain when in reality there is usually a mix. Dixon’s parents are well meaning if not fully supportive. Audie’s mom isn’t all bad, though she is pretty judgmental and petty.
Dixon’s reaction to being blind felt pretty appropriate as well, though I did wonder at his relative ease at getting over Ron. I also wondered why Ron’s family was so intent on keeping Randi when Dixon was the biological father, why weren’t his parents taking over?
Overall I thought this was a riveting and wonderful book and I highly recommend it.
Overall 4.6 of 5 stars!
Audio
Paul Morey did an amazing job with this. God I loved his Audey and Dix was PERFECTION. This was such a fun book to listen to with all the different southern accents! I highly recommend this as an audiobook!
6 of 5 stars
March 9, 2015
This book had me in its grips from the start! Lonesome, gay, single dad, who's been hiding his sexuality for most of his life, meets lonesome, gay, widowed single dad, and sparks fly from the get-go.
Called into the principal's office because their kids have been fighting with each other, Audie, the closeted single dad, meets Dixon, who because a horrible car accident not only lost his beloved husband, but also his sight.
Audie is a great character. Loving and caring, he realizes quickly that Randi (Dixon's daughter) is only lashing out because of her pain, and does what he can to help. He doesn't expect to fall in love, doesn't quite know how to get out from under his mother's thumb. He's in the closet, more or less, and has little hope to make a better life for himself and his son, Grainger. He is humble, straight-forward, but also resigned to his lot in life.
Dixon is a bit more complicated, but what really stood out for me is the fact that he's basically given up. He's lost his husband, and he can't seem to find the will to make things easier for him. He's living with his parents and his youngest brother, and initially struck me as mad at the world and hindering himself from moving forward. He seemed stuck.
The kids were a breath of fresh air. So often authors make them precocious and wiser than their years, but here all we get are two realistic children, who act their age. They were the catalyst to Audie meeting Dixon, but also the glue that kept them together, to explore the relationship we see unfolding before our eyes.
Of course, nothing is easy for either of them, but they learn quickly that working together makes things easier on both of them.
I really liked how the author made it very clear that Dixon is torn between the love he still feels for his deceased spouse and the new feelings Audie is waking in him. I liked that they didn't immediately fall into bed, that they made their kids a priority, that they had honest conversations, and nothing smacked of insta-love.
I also liked that for every step forward Dixon took, someone was trying to discourage him - as if they wanted him to stay stuck. I saw too much pity and not enough support from his family, but the two men face the challenges head-on, and eventually get to where they want to be.
The outside influences notwithstanding, their honesty and willingness to fight for each other is what made this such an enjoyable read. It was steady progress, and the setbacks along the way enhanced their final success. I loved the flirting, their banter, and there was plenty of heat between them too.
This is the kind of story I love to read!
Called into the principal's office because their kids have been fighting with each other, Audie, the closeted single dad, meets Dixon, who because a horrible car accident not only lost his beloved husband, but also his sight.
Audie is a great character. Loving and caring, he realizes quickly that Randi (Dixon's daughter) is only lashing out because of her pain, and does what he can to help. He doesn't expect to fall in love, doesn't quite know how to get out from under his mother's thumb. He's in the closet, more or less, and has little hope to make a better life for himself and his son, Grainger. He is humble, straight-forward, but also resigned to his lot in life.
Dixon is a bit more complicated, but what really stood out for me is the fact that he's basically given up. He's lost his husband, and he can't seem to find the will to make things easier for him. He's living with his parents and his youngest brother, and initially struck me as mad at the world and hindering himself from moving forward. He seemed stuck.
The kids were a breath of fresh air. So often authors make them precocious and wiser than their years, but here all we get are two realistic children, who act their age. They were the catalyst to Audie meeting Dixon, but also the glue that kept them together, to explore the relationship we see unfolding before our eyes.
Of course, nothing is easy for either of them, but they learn quickly that working together makes things easier on both of them.
I really liked how the author made it very clear that Dixon is torn between the love he still feels for his deceased spouse and the new feelings Audie is waking in him. I liked that they didn't immediately fall into bed, that they made their kids a priority, that they had honest conversations, and nothing smacked of insta-love.
I also liked that for every step forward Dixon took, someone was trying to discourage him - as if they wanted him to stay stuck. I saw too much pity and not enough support from his family, but the two men face the challenges head-on, and eventually get to where they want to be.
The outside influences notwithstanding, their honesty and willingness to fight for each other is what made this such an enjoyable read. It was steady progress, and the setbacks along the way enhanced their final success. I loved the flirting, their banter, and there was plenty of heat between them too.
This is the kind of story I love to read!
March 5, 2015
A nice, sweet read but also a bit bland. A pleasant story, but nothing to really make you tear through pages to see what happens next.
Here's my biggest issue: IF
The book was decently written, with some typos and grammar issues that managed to get through to the final draft. Nothing to really hamper reading. I did have a hard time connecting with the main characters. I found them both to be a bit too similar. I think this was mostly a dialogue issue. Everyone talked the same - they all had similar mannerism and dialogue quirks, they all used the same nicknames and slang and oh, the use of oh. So many Ohs. It could be expected among the family members, but Audie's a cowboy, Dix lived in the big city and had traveled all over the world, and Randi had only ever lived in Austin but all have near identical speech patterns. It was very odd to read. The PoV changes between Dix and Audie but their voices are nearly identical, making the story seem a bit flat.
It wasn't awful, but maybe save this one for a light beach read as it doesn't require much effort to get through it.
Here's my biggest issue: IF
The book was decently written, with some typos and grammar issues that managed to get through to the final draft. Nothing to really hamper reading. I did have a hard time connecting with the main characters. I found them both to be a bit too similar. I think this was mostly a dialogue issue. Everyone talked the same - they all had similar mannerism and dialogue quirks, they all used the same nicknames and slang and oh, the use of oh. So many Ohs. It could be expected among the family members, but Audie's a cowboy, Dix lived in the big city and had traveled all over the world, and Randi had only ever lived in Austin but all have near identical speech patterns. It was very odd to read. The PoV changes between Dix and Audie but their voices are nearly identical, making the story seem a bit flat.
It wasn't awful, but maybe save this one for a light beach read as it doesn't require much effort to get through it.
June 9, 2015
3.5 stars. I had difficulty getting into the rhythm of the book -- this author has such a distinctive style of writing -- but once I did, I became engrossed in the story and read it straight through to the end. I loved watching these two single fathers blend their families. The two kids Randi and Grainger were so adorable. There was just the right amount of them in the story. This very much remained the MCs' love story.
Dixon was blinded in the accident that took his partner's life. He's struggling with adapting and feels overwhelmed with life and the decisions he has to make. Audie is at a crossroads. He's tired of hiding who he is. They have doubters that a relationship between them can work, but they fight for each other. These two men just want to be a family, and I liked watching them on their journeys to achieving that goal.
Dixon was blinded in the accident that took his partner's life. He's struggling with adapting and feels overwhelmed with life and the decisions he has to make. Audie is at a crossroads. He's tired of hiding who he is. They have doubters that a relationship between them can work, but they fight for each other. These two men just want to be a family, and I liked watching them on their journeys to achieving that goal.
February 28, 2015
I have a fondness for stories about guys with disabilities and for stories about single dads. This one combined both! I liked it - it was a satisfying, sweet romance. You could tell Audie and Dixon were meant for each other from day one, not just as lovers but as the "other dad" to each other's kids. Not quite at 5 star romance-level for me, but definitely satisfying.
June 3, 2018
Audiobook reviewEver the Same is a family drama, about two single dads, one closeted and one recently blinded from an accident a couple of years back. When their kids are caught fighting in school it signifies the start of a friendship that slowly develops into something more. But homophobia runs deep, near and far and a relationship between them is filled with a lot of challenges to overcome.
Sadly I can't in good conscience recommend this book for many reasons. The main one being the sound quality, which was beyond poor. This audiobook definitely needs some extensive editing. Because there were times (so many, many times) it sounded like Morey's was talking into a tin can, and it had this weird echoing and metallic voice. It could be a sentence here and there or it was long chunks. It always threw me out of the story and unfailingly made me very annoyed. To me this was very surprising as DSP usually produces quality audios.
About the narration itself: I didn't enjoy Paul Morey's narration of this book. It might be the editing, and it might not, so I'm leaving that a bit open. He did try to have distinguished voices for the different characters but didn't always succeed. I also felt like his voice might not have been the ideal for this story - but that might just be me. And while I might not actively avoid him, I won't go out of my way to pick up more of his narrations in the future.
It's always a good thing when books evoke feelings with the reader, when you get invested in the characters and the plot. Mostly this book fell short on that part - except for one part. And boy did that evoke emotions - mainly outrage and anger and the such. I absolutely hated how almost everyone treated Dixon. Just because he was blind it doesn't mean he's worthless or useless. I was so angry on his behalf when everyone picked on him. They truly told him that he was useless and couldn't be trusted to be alone without killing himself. This kind of attitude makes me scream and I seriously considered throwing or breaking something on his behalf. The truly sad part? This is the mind set of so many people out there and don't only exist in fiction.
The ending came out of the blue, just when everything got good and they finally started to stand up for themselves the book flashes forward two years and the happily ever after. I wanted to be there when they took those steps, when they really became a family and not only be there for the beginning of it.
This book disappointed me on several levels. I know that the sound quality coloured my feelings a bit and really sunk it for me, but there were still issues with the plot that I had a hard time getting over. So sadly this was not a book I'd recommend.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
August 1, 2017
3.5 stars
I liked how these two fell for each other. They were sweet, though all the honeys coming so often from both of them made their dialogues interchangeable. I often found myself double checking who was talking.
The story was good, different, which I appreciated.
Their sexy times were ok though not super steamy.
Overall a good read.
I liked how these two fell for each other. They were sweet, though all the honeys coming so often from both of them made their dialogues interchangeable. I often found myself double checking who was talking.
The story was good, different, which I appreciated.
Their sexy times were ok though not super steamy.
Overall a good read.
March 3, 2015
This...this is the kind of story that I love reading.
Audie is a single father who has lived his life hiding who he really is. His life revolves around his horses and his son--until fate brings Dixon and Randi into his life. Audie can't stand by to see a little girl with a world of hurt in her eyes, but still he hesitates in approaching the quiet, surly blind man. But once he comes to learn Dixon's story and the man behind the attitude, he can't seem to stay away.
Dixon is not looking for love. Hell, he doesn't even have much desire to keep on living. His days are an endless loop of trying to figure how to move forward, take care of his daughter and learning to be blind. Pain, indecision, confusion and helplessness are some of the constants in his life--until Audie with his charming personality, easy manner and flirty comments slowly but surely urges him to take that one step that will put him back to living a 'normal' life. But with change comes challenges, lack of support from the people around him and frustration.
Soon Audie and Dixon must fight not only for their new found love but for the life they want to make for themselves and their family.
I loved this story from beginning to end. Both Audie and Dixon were amazing characters to get to know. Audie with his humble ways, caring nature and desire to love and be loved was adorable. Dixon on the other hand, was more complex. Torn between having lost his partner and his sight and wanting what Audie offered, he was confused and scared as to how to move forward, but regressing to his former self was not an option. Add to that two little kids and of course everything gets a bit more complicated--and interesting too!
For me the addition of the kids made a big difference in my enjoyment of this story. Often times kids are introduced in a story and soon forgotten. But not here. BA Tortuga managed to focused on developing Audie and Dixon's connection while still allowing the reader to experience the connection between Audie, Dixon, Grainger and Randi. I loved how she took the time to showcase how the characters bonded without it taking away from the romance.
And what a romance it was! Moving slow and steady and making absolutely sure that a connection was established, BA Tortuga didn't miss a beat in bringing the romance to the page. There was heat and flirty banter, intense emotional moments, doubts and hesitations and like the sap I am I devoured it all!
I loved Audie's reluctance to make a move and his determination to take things at Dixon's pace. I especially loved how he came to stand up for himself and what he wanted out of life and never doubting that Dixon was who he wanted. I also enjoyed seeing Dixon letting go bit by bit and letting Audie into his life. A supporting touch, a careful caress...he came to allow it and me? I was grinning like a maniac. (or so I was told!)
I don't even have to into the chemistry between these two--this is BA Tortuga after all. But I liked that the intensity of their attraction transitioned nicely from hesitant to full-on steam as the story progressed. A treat for sure! There was this one scene....*sigh* perfection!
Ever the Same is one of those stories that have a perfect mix of romance, emotions and conflict. The pace allowed the reader to really get into the story, the characters were complex and showed much growth and the romance was tentative and blooming as the story moved along. All in all, a wonderful romantic story.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
Audie is a single father who has lived his life hiding who he really is. His life revolves around his horses and his son--until fate brings Dixon and Randi into his life. Audie can't stand by to see a little girl with a world of hurt in her eyes, but still he hesitates in approaching the quiet, surly blind man. But once he comes to learn Dixon's story and the man behind the attitude, he can't seem to stay away.
Dixon is not looking for love. Hell, he doesn't even have much desire to keep on living. His days are an endless loop of trying to figure how to move forward, take care of his daughter and learning to be blind. Pain, indecision, confusion and helplessness are some of the constants in his life--until Audie with his charming personality, easy manner and flirty comments slowly but surely urges him to take that one step that will put him back to living a 'normal' life. But with change comes challenges, lack of support from the people around him and frustration.
Soon Audie and Dixon must fight not only for their new found love but for the life they want to make for themselves and their family.
I loved this story from beginning to end. Both Audie and Dixon were amazing characters to get to know. Audie with his humble ways, caring nature and desire to love and be loved was adorable. Dixon on the other hand, was more complex. Torn between having lost his partner and his sight and wanting what Audie offered, he was confused and scared as to how to move forward, but regressing to his former self was not an option. Add to that two little kids and of course everything gets a bit more complicated--and interesting too!
For me the addition of the kids made a big difference in my enjoyment of this story. Often times kids are introduced in a story and soon forgotten. But not here. BA Tortuga managed to focused on developing Audie and Dixon's connection while still allowing the reader to experience the connection between Audie, Dixon, Grainger and Randi. I loved how she took the time to showcase how the characters bonded without it taking away from the romance.
And what a romance it was! Moving slow and steady and making absolutely sure that a connection was established, BA Tortuga didn't miss a beat in bringing the romance to the page. There was heat and flirty banter, intense emotional moments, doubts and hesitations and like the sap I am I devoured it all!
I loved Audie's reluctance to make a move and his determination to take things at Dixon's pace. I especially loved how he came to stand up for himself and what he wanted out of life and never doubting that Dixon was who he wanted. I also enjoyed seeing Dixon letting go bit by bit and letting Audie into his life. A supporting touch, a careful caress...he came to allow it and me? I was grinning like a maniac. (or so I was told!)
I don't even have to into the chemistry between these two--this is BA Tortuga after all. But I liked that the intensity of their attraction transitioned nicely from hesitant to full-on steam as the story progressed. A treat for sure! There was this one scene....*sigh* perfection!
Ever the Same is one of those stories that have a perfect mix of romance, emotions and conflict. The pace allowed the reader to really get into the story, the characters were complex and showed much growth and the romance was tentative and blooming as the story moved along. All in all, a wonderful romantic story.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
January 2, 2016
I loved the plot, the characters Audie and Dixon and their character development, and the story on the whole.
What I didn't love was the choppy editing of the narration, the sound quality, and the rushed ending.
This story has a trope I really enjoy: hurt/comfort. Dixon has lost both his husband and his sight in a horrific car accident. He's forced to move home with his parents because he can't do for himself, and needs time to get better and regroup before going to a special school that teaches people how to cope with their blindness. His daughter, Randi is having a really hard time adjusting to the changes in their life as well and acting out, particularly at school by hitting another child, Grainger. Grainger's father Audie is called in and is surprised to find out that his son has been fighting, and that the other child is a girl and a little spitfire. Audie is surprised again to find out that Dixon is gay and very out with it, particularly as his own homosexuality is a closely guarded secret.
The children were well characterized, and, thankfully, not present enough to be a bother to me. I liked both Audie and Dixon, especially that they were both human and flawed and just trying to do the best they could, and in Dixon's case, making the best out of a truly shitty situation.
The two men begin to spend time together because of the children and slowly begin building a relationship. While their kids have no problem with them together, Audie's mom isn't happy about it because she wants to keep Audie's gayness under wraps, and Dixon's mom isn't so happy about it because she isn't calling the shots anymore.
I enjoyed seeing the two men's relationship grow and their genuine affection and feelings for one another, which makes it all the more disappointing that the end was so rushed. I wanted to know more about Dixon going to the school for the blind. I wanted to know more about Audie's horse farm. I wanted to know more about their lives together. Instead I got a "everything is great and they lived happily ever after!" kind of ending, which just felt way too rushed.
As for the narration, Paul Morey is splendid, as per usual, but this is one of those times where not even great narration/acting can save the audio book - and it's all because of poor editing and sound quality.
If it weren't for the poor sound quality and the ending this would have a much higher rating.
Copy generously provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 14, 2020
5 Hearts Reviewed by Cat for MM Good Book Reviews
Audie is gay though no one knows except his family and they prefer he keep it secret thinking it will go away. He is surprised in more ways than one when he gets a call from school that his son has been fighting. When he gets there he finds out Randy is Randi and a girl. She just lost one dad and the other dad is gay. Oh yeah and most importantly blind. He never had any idea how much one little phone call could change his life.
Dix feels useless and wishes he had died in the accident t times if only it was t for his daughter Randi. She is also struggling with the loss of one dad all the changes of moving and her other dad not being able to see and do anything.
I loved this story. I loved that neither man is perfect and how much each man loves their child. I also liked how it seems as if fate brings them together through their children. It is a beautiful story of love, tragedy, and need.
I am a big character lover and I loved every single character in this book including the children. Each one played their parts well giving the story interest.
The one issue I had was it switches quickly from one view to the other. I was able to follow but at times I had to read back a bit to figure out who was talking or thinking. It didn’t slow me down or keep me from enjoying the story.
I applaud B. A. for making Dixon blind and not where he magically gets better or can even be surgically fixed but permanently blind and Dixon having a child as a teen and taking responsibility showing some men do actually do what is necessary and life changing. I have to say that I really enjoyed the cute baby talk on occasion from the kids it lightened up the sadness. (I can’t wait to see if Dan gets a story)
If you live a sweet romance with a touch of angst, some tragedy, cute kids, cowboys, musician’s horses, damaged men, handicapped men and some pretty sensual and hot man-sex this is definitely for you!
Audie is gay though no one knows except his family and they prefer he keep it secret thinking it will go away. He is surprised in more ways than one when he gets a call from school that his son has been fighting. When he gets there he finds out Randy is Randi and a girl. She just lost one dad and the other dad is gay. Oh yeah and most importantly blind. He never had any idea how much one little phone call could change his life.
Dix feels useless and wishes he had died in the accident t times if only it was t for his daughter Randi. She is also struggling with the loss of one dad all the changes of moving and her other dad not being able to see and do anything.
I loved this story. I loved that neither man is perfect and how much each man loves their child. I also liked how it seems as if fate brings them together through their children. It is a beautiful story of love, tragedy, and need.
I am a big character lover and I loved every single character in this book including the children. Each one played their parts well giving the story interest.
The one issue I had was it switches quickly from one view to the other. I was able to follow but at times I had to read back a bit to figure out who was talking or thinking. It didn’t slow me down or keep me from enjoying the story.
I applaud B. A. for making Dixon blind and not where he magically gets better or can even be surgically fixed but permanently blind and Dixon having a child as a teen and taking responsibility showing some men do actually do what is necessary and life changing. I have to say that I really enjoyed the cute baby talk on occasion from the kids it lightened up the sadness. (I can’t wait to see if Dan gets a story)
If you live a sweet romance with a touch of angst, some tragedy, cute kids, cowboys, musician’s horses, damaged men, handicapped men and some pretty sensual and hot man-sex this is definitely for you!
September 10, 2015
5 Stars
**This book was provided to me by the author/publisher via Pride Promotions in exchange for an honest review**
Audie and Dixon meet when they are called to the principal's office, after Dixon's daughter, Randi punches Audie's son, Grainger.
Audie is a cowboy. He raises houses and helps run the family ranch. Dixon was a musician before a terrible accident left his husband dead and him blind.
This was a really good book. I loved both the characters. Audie was so sweet and so accepting of Dixon's disability. Always trying to not only help, but encourage him. He really believed that Dixon could do anything he put his mind to and he let him know it. He was Dixon's own personal cheerleader.
My heart broke for Dixon. He felt so worthless and useless. His tries not to feel sorry for himself, but it slips in every now and then.
I loved the dynamic of the relationship between all 4 of the MC's. Grainger and Randi play a huge part in this book, and I loved that the author truly made the book about the 4 of them and Grainger and Randi didn't get lost in the shuffle.
Audie and Dixon had a great chemistry and connection. They were sweet together, and I loved their relationship. Although the book had an underlying angst, the book isn't packed with it. I thought it started a bit slow, but picked up after the first few chapters. It flowed well and kept me turning the pages.
**This book was provided to me by the author/publisher via Pride Promotions in exchange for an honest review**
Audie and Dixon meet when they are called to the principal's office, after Dixon's daughter, Randi punches Audie's son, Grainger.
Audie is a cowboy. He raises houses and helps run the family ranch. Dixon was a musician before a terrible accident left his husband dead and him blind.
This was a really good book. I loved both the characters. Audie was so sweet and so accepting of Dixon's disability. Always trying to not only help, but encourage him. He really believed that Dixon could do anything he put his mind to and he let him know it. He was Dixon's own personal cheerleader.
My heart broke for Dixon. He felt so worthless and useless. His tries not to feel sorry for himself, but it slips in every now and then.
I loved the dynamic of the relationship between all 4 of the MC's. Grainger and Randi play a huge part in this book, and I loved that the author truly made the book about the 4 of them and Grainger and Randi didn't get lost in the shuffle.
Audie and Dixon had a great chemistry and connection. They were sweet together, and I loved their relationship. Although the book had an underlying angst, the book isn't packed with it. I thought it started a bit slow, but picked up after the first few chapters. It flowed well and kept me turning the pages.
May 11, 2015
I adored this book from the very first page until the very last. It was a beautiful story that was heartbreaking and so wonderfully loving at the same time. The characters were strong when single, but together they sure made an impact on everything they said or did. The kids were incredible and I longed to be a part of their family. I really liked that when they came together they loved one another with everything they had. Audie didn't treat Dixon like he was defected. I also really liked that they fought against their mothers to be what they wanted and love who they wanted no matter their opinions and in the end they prevailed. I truly loved this story, but did feel it was missing a little something to make it a 5 star book. But this author is another of my favorites and this book was worth every penny.
March 5, 2015
Perhaps 3.5 stars
Somehow the writing style reminded me of Sean Michaels' books with children.
It was a nice story, I liked the characters, but overall the story was slowly moving along. The forced conflict was not really a conflict, their solution: ignore it.
Overall it was a nice, relaxing read, nothing new or earth-shattering.
Somehow the writing style reminded me of Sean Michaels' books with children.
It was a nice story, I liked the characters, but overall the story was slowly moving along. The forced conflict was not really a conflict, their solution: ignore it.
Overall it was a nice, relaxing read, nothing new or earth-shattering.
July 9, 2015
I love books with Cowboys (sigh). I love books with cute kids. I love books when a character has a physical or mental disability to overcome. This book had all three. I was happy happy happy.
The only problem was the book ended very abruptly. The last chapter was actually an epilogue but I wasn't prepared going in. It threw me off and I was a bit disappointed.
The only problem was the book ended very abruptly. The last chapter was actually an epilogue but I wasn't prepared going in. It threw me off and I was a bit disappointed.
September 21, 2015
3.5
This felt like a "clip" out of someones life. No real direction or event. Just a shared piece of time in space. That sounds funny I know but there really isn't any other way I know how to put it. It was a nice little story but it didn't make me hop around on my chair or elevate my heart rate for that matter.
This felt like a "clip" out of someones life. No real direction or event. Just a shared piece of time in space. That sounds funny I know but there really isn't any other way I know how to put it. It was a nice little story but it didn't make me hop around on my chair or elevate my heart rate for that matter.
March 23, 2015
It was a nice story. It dragged along, little angst and no sparkling characters.
The last chapter is the epilogue. It doesn't say epilogue so when you start the chapter you are a little disoriented. It leads you to the HEA but there is no real feeling behind it.
The last chapter is the epilogue. It doesn't say epilogue so when you start the chapter you are a little disoriented. It leads you to the HEA but there is no real feeling behind it.
September 15, 2015
Audible
DNF@ 70%
It's not too bad, I just grew bored.
DNF@ 70%
It's not too bad, I just grew bored.
July 1, 2023
4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
March 8, 2017
I loved this so much. I didn't think the guys sounded like teenagers and they didn't seem to me as pushovers by their moms either. They were just 2guys holding their heads over the water taking time to adjust to what their lives turned into.
I was a bit scared first. The setup of the story provided for some really hardcore angst. But I was so glad that the author decided against it and skirted angst altogether. There was some tension building up a few times but perfectly acceptable in the context of events.
The two MCs I liked both very much. I didn't feel wallowing and self-pitying, again I could all too easily see many authors abusing the potential of this story to create massive piles of angst to flip readers out. B.A. Tourtuga went with an easy approach, rational reactions and spine for her main characters when facing adversity. The plot was kept in the family, so we did not have to deal with discrimination or haters either. I personally appreciated that.
The kids were likable, they were a joyful giggle making most of the book fluffy and sweet because they were agents of the HEA rather than that of Angst and Misery.
I very much enjoyed this novel, and I actually see myself rereading it later.
I was a bit scared first. The setup of the story provided for some really hardcore angst. But I was so glad that the author decided against it and skirted angst altogether. There was some tension building up a few times but perfectly acceptable in the context of events.
The two MCs I liked both very much. I didn't feel wallowing and self-pitying, again I could all too easily see many authors abusing the potential of this story to create massive piles of angst to flip readers out. B.A. Tourtuga went with an easy approach, rational reactions and spine for her main characters when facing adversity. The plot was kept in the family, so we did not have to deal with discrimination or haters either. I personally appreciated that.
The kids were likable, they were a joyful giggle making most of the book fluffy and sweet because they were agents of the HEA rather than that of Angst and Misery.
I very much enjoyed this novel, and I actually see myself rereading it later.
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