No Fool For Love Songs

by Daryl Banner, Eric Battershell (Photographer)

TJ
My future is already mapped out.
Graduate college. Move home to Spruce, Texas. Take over the family business.
And die of boredom.

So I plan one last shot at the summer road trip of a lifetime.

Until my best friend ruins it
and I end up at a Chase Holt concert I never even wanted to attend,
pouring my heart out to a total stranger.

I just didn't know that total stranger
was about to wreck my life.

CHASE
I sure look like I'm living the dream.
Sold-out shows. Adoring fans. A career built on love songs.

Trouble is, I don't recognize the man singing them anymore.

Then I meet him.
The small-town firecracker with a chip on his shoulder
who sees the part of me I thought I'd already lost.

I should walk away. But the closer he gets, the less I want to.
And if I let this happen, I risk losing everything.

How am I supposed to sing about love when I'm not allowed to have it?
How do I hold on to the one person who makes me feel real
when the world is ready to tear us apart?

NO FOOL FOR LOVE SONGS is an emotional slow-burn romance in the Spruce Texas Romance series about choosing your own path—and the one person worth risking everything for.
✔️ M/M slow-burn romance
✔️ College boy & rock star
✔️ Small-town

Have you read all the books in the Spruce Texas series?
Football Sundae
Born Again Sinner
Heteroflexible
Wrangled
Rebel At Spruce High
Summer Sweat
Hopeful Romantic
Mr. Picture Perfect
Hot Mess Express
Forever Strong
No Fool For Love Songs ◄◄
(with more to come!)

What about the Texas Beach Town spin-off series?
In Too Deep
Crusher
Far From Paradise
Hearts Adrift
(more on the way!)

Genres: M M Romance

367 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 27, 2026

About the author

Daryl Banner is a USA Today Bestselling author, composer, and performer. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston Honors College with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. He is happily married to his piano. Theory suggests this is why he writes romance.

During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.

Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
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Fun facts about Daryl Banner:

- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.

- He is a huge video game enthusiast.

- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.

- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner

- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm basically reading books set in places hotter than hell right now because England is fucking hot as balls and I'm dying in the heat, so it's kinda easy to put myself in Spruce!!! I am so beyond envious that these guys have AC though because that's just not a thing in England, and my pedestal fans are fucking laughing in my face with the hot air they keep recirculating! I'd die to get in TJ's pool right now because inside my house it's 31 fucking degrees Celsius!!!!

TJ and Austin were so bloody sweet though. I loved their story and the secrecy and hidden identity just added extra entertainment. TJ's mum was so nutty but hilarious at the same time, I definitely like her better than Nadine!

I do kinda wish we'd seen a bit more of TJ sticking up for himself, especially with AJ the totally lame bestie, but this book was a lot of fun and reminded me of why I enjoy the Spruce books so much - plus Nadine was barely mentioned so it was a win for me.

[Ron Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Fool for Love Songs isn’t like any other story in the ever expanding Spruce, TX series. From the unconventional meet-cute that is so relatable while still keeping with the fairytale romantics of the other stories. If you ever thought Daryl Banner’s stories would loose their substance, you’re in for a pleasant surprise! the build-up of Timothy and Austin’s love story is told brilliantly through the progression of song, narrative and even chapter titles! I felt their love, anxieties, and triumphs through every encounter, location and situation they found themselves in. Spruce is also well represented throughout the story but never over shadowing. No Fool for Love Songs will filled with everything I love: music, romance, and true love! I highly recommend No Fool for Love Songs especially in this time when we all need to be reminded that love does indeed conquer all! I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sue Ouellet-Cofsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Fool for Love Songs takes us back to one of my favorite places in the world...Spruce TX. A place where you can be literally anything or anyone you want to be and you will find TRUE acceptance and TRUE love and not just the romantic kind of love. TJ is the main focus of this Spruce story and he is at a true crossroads in his life. Should he buckle down and live the life his parents have planned for him or is there a way for him to find and live his own dreams. Enter Austin who is at a different crossroads wondering how his life got so out of control from his original plans. Both men fight demons of their own and strike up the most unlikely of friendships. On the road to falling in love, they will both learn WHO will go out of their way to support them and if you've read any Spruce stories before you KNOW who will provide them all the love and support they need. "This is the stuff of love songs." I laughed out loud, I swooned and yes, I cried. Everything I needed to read in one fun, campy, emotional story.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is AMAZING! I love these guys and their story line. This book has all the feels. Once I started it I didn't want to put it down. I love the dynamic between these characters and how they are both discovering themselves along the way. I love how love always wins.
I love the spruce series and it's always nice to catch up with characters from previous books. It really does keep the characters believable and relatable. If you haven't read any of the previous books I would recommend also picking them up.

[DLB2572 · Rating 5 out of 5]

TJ & Chase

This one is definitely up there as one of my favorites for this series. I loved TJ and Chase's story. I was into it right from the start. I know I'll be going back to their story again.

I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A glorious return to Spruce with a new story that allows fans to catch up with familiar favorites, yet is also an independent read for new fans.
TJ and Austin's love story hits all the feels and becomes a story you have to finish in one sitting.

[Madalyn George · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another sweet sexy love story set in the Spruce Texas Romance series.

I love a story that features a celebrity and this one didn't disappoint.

[Glenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A case of not recognizing someone led to true love

Timothy, who prefers to go by TJ, is feeling stagnant at college because his loving parents wish for him to return home with a degree and assume control of the family business. However, residing in Spruce, Texas appears dull to him, while it represents happiness for his parents.

To avoid the inevitable pain, he plans a cross-country road trip with his college best friend, aiming to make this summer bearable. Nevertheless, that best friend has found a girl he likes and replaces TJ on the trip. To soften the disappointment, TJ invites his best friend to a concert before they depart for different locations, but his bestie does not show up.

TJ then engages in a heated exchange with a stranger, which unexpectedly becomes pivotal to his destiny. The stranger, Chase, a handsome lead singer wearing a cowboy hat, is openly gay and is ascending in the music industry. TJ’s rant profoundly impacts Chase, stirring a desire in him to respond with an improvised song addressing TJ’s concerns, though TJ only hears part of it from outside the venue.

Subsequently, Chase seeks out the college student who prompted him to reflect deeply on his true path in that song. TJ becomes his muse for his songs.

This narrative exemplifies Daryl Banner's writing style, characterized by economical language and exquisite descriptions of the love Chase longs to experience, opening the door to a new journey that includes a search for TJ.

There is a touch of magic when the two meet again, leading to a romantic connection. Mr. Banner’s style is straightforward, intense, and a pleasure to read. Across the numerous books in the Spruce, Texas series, this installment stands out for portraying a community comprising an impressive number of gay men enjoying wonderful experiences, genuine love, and supportive families.

Without revealing spoilers, it suffices to say that the story is worth reading. It captivates and immerses the reader in the characters' eventual relationship. It also explores the hopes of TJ’s parents, who have set specific goals they wish for their son to achieve, and the challenges faced by Chase, who is constrained by a record label that wishes to suppress his sexuality and confine him to avoid exploiting this aspect of his life. However, a courageous and daring act by Chase changes everything—occurring amid the love of TJ’s family, the warmth of Spruce, Texas, and his profound feelings for TJ.

I am committed to this couple, whom I hope will continue to be depicted in future books within the Spruce series as leading normal lives in extraordinary circumstances. (By the way, there are lots of characters from past books who make significant cameo appearances at a key moment in this relationship.

If you cherish stories of romance characterized by low angst, warm resolutions, and memorable characters who linger in your mind long after reading, this is a story you will want to explore.

[Third Act Confessions · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Slowest Burn in Texas — And Somehow It Worked

Daryl Banner really said you’re gonna WAIT for this one, and wow… he meant it. If you look up “slow burn” in the dictionary, I’m pretty sure No Fool for Love Songs would be sitting there with a smug little grin.

Normally, I’m not the biggest slow-burn reader unless there’s some heavy enemies-to-lovers tension carrying the story, and this absolutely was not that kind of book. There’s no fiery hatred, no constant bickering, no dramatic “I can’t stand you but also want to kiss you” energy. Instead, this story leans fully into emotional connection, quiet longing, and taking its sweet Texas time getting there. And honestly? I don’t think this story could have worked any other way.

The spice level is probably around a 2/5 for me. There are references and implications, but very little is actually written out on page. So if you’re coming into this series looking for something super spicy, this probably won’t scratch that itch. But for this story, the softer approach fit perfectly. It felt intentional rather than lacking.

What really made this book satisfying was finally getting TJ’s story. We’ve seen him throughout so many books in the Spruce Texas Romance Series that it genuinely felt like catching up with an old friend who finally gets his turn in the spotlight. There’s something special about long-running small-town romance series when beloved side characters finally step forward, and this one absolutely delivered that emotional payoff.

That said… this felt a little more HFN (Happy For Now) than full HEA to me. Even TJ himself says he hopes one day this man will become the love of his life, which gives the ending a slightly more open-ended feeling than some of the earlier books. Depending on your romance preferences, you may either love that realism or wish for something more concrete.

One of my favorite parts of this entire series continues to be revisiting previous couples and townspeople. Every time old favorites pop up, it feels like coming home to Spruce, Texas. I’m pretty sure we either saw or got mentions of almost all the previous couples, plus iconic townspeople like Nadine, who continues to feel like the unofficial queen of this town.

And honestly? I’m still going to keep begging for more stories or novellas in this universe. Tanner and Billy got one, so now I’m officially campaigning for Jimmy and Bobby content because I will always show up for those two.

This may not have been the spiciest or most dramatic book in the series, but it had warmth, heart, and that comforting small-town feeling Daryl Banner does so well. Sometimes a story doesn’t need fireworks when it knows exactly what kind of love story it wants to tell.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘How am I supposed to sing about love when I'm not allowed to have it?’- Finding love!

Author/composer Daryl Banner graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. His writing includes new adult romance, M/M romance, post-apocalyptic fantasy, and dystopian. According to his brief biography he is ‘most inspired by the smart and unlikely hero, but urges you (the reader) not to fall in love with them; they may deceive you with their innocence.’

This is the eleventh novel in Daryl’s always excellent Spruce Texas Romance series, and after an excellent distillation of the people and places in Spruce, Daryl introduces the principle characters – Ty and Chase, opening with Ty’s thoughts : ‘It’s on a bench outside the Visual and Performing Arts Center under the shade of a sycamore tree that I pull out my pink-and-red notebook and matching pencil. At the top of the page is a title: “Things I could be instead of Timothy “TJ” McPherson.’ Below that, twenty items’…ending with ‘literally anything but taking over McPherson Tractor & Finance and pretending spreadsheets have personalities for the rest of my life…’ And that sets the impact that musician Chase Holt makes on Ty’s life as one of the most entertaining, humorous, and enjoyable romances that opens windows for two needy guys…just needy in different ways. The result is a song sung true! Said before, and say again - Daryl Banner just gets better and better with his gift for writing. Here is fine Southern atmosphere and a terrific romance. Read this one twice for all the character details – and become a frequent Banner flyer!

[S Bryan Bkht · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some stories do not ease you in… they pull you in from the very first moment.

No Fool for Love Songs introduces us to Timothy and Chase through one of the most memorable and genuinely charming meet-cutes I have come across in a long time. From there, the story unfolds with a rhythm that keeps you invested without ever feeling rushed.

What stood out most to me was not only the connection between the characters, but how intentionally that connection was built. Their journey feels authentic, layered, and emotionally grounded in a way that makes you root for them without hesitation.

There were moments where I found myself eager to reach what I sensed was coming next. Not out of impatience, but out of excitement. And that speaks to the strength of the storytelling. Even while anticipating those moments, the journey itself remained just as compelling as the destination.

Daryl Banner continues to deliver in a way that reinforces why I have been a longtime fan of his work, especially within the MM romance space. His ability to balance heart, pacing, and emotional depth is consistently impressive.

If you are looking for a story that is both heartfelt and engaging, this one is absolutely worth your time.

[Kaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the latest in the Spruce Texas Romance Series, and well worth it. I'm always excited to read a new Daryl Banner novel, and this one does not disappoint.
TJ thought his life was planned out for him, and he didn't want it. To avoid his family for the summer he planned a roadtrip with his bestie, only to be gutted when his bestie dumped the trip to join otheres on a trip to Califiornia, to follow a girl. TJ unloaded his dissapointment to a stranger in the hallways of a Chase Holt concert, only to find that stranger will change his life in ways he never expected.
This book is a journey of discovery for the main characters TJ and Austin/Chase - discovery about themselves, each other, and the prospects of a future neither considered possible.
One of my favourtite line's: "I'm gifted with the unexpected sight of Austin strutting up to the lane in those tight blue jeans." I mean, who doesnt appreciate a sight like that.
I highly recommend this book, and if you havent read the others in the series - you should.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhh...I have been waiting for TJ's book for a long time, and his story did not disappoint! Most of the action takes place out of Spruce (for a change) but definitely visits the charming town many times and we do get to see several of the main series characters sprinkled throughout. Coming out is not always easy and even though Spruce has an abundance of gay couples and very accepting citizens, TJ has always been fearful of what it would look like to his parents and if they would accept his future to not be what they envisioned. Chase Holt is the poetic and sometimes cynical musician who captures TJ's heart and soul and what follows is simply beautiful in my eyes. A sweet and at times steamy and very emotional love story from start to finish. I LOVED this one so much!

***** 5 ***** "only a fool for him" stars

[Readingwithmypack · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC REVIEW✨

🥹🥹🥹 Listen, there's not a Spruce Texas book I haven't enjoyed. They're all amazing! But this one, this one right here hit me in the feels. TJ and Chase are truly one of my new top couples from this series and their love story really makes you think about how love changes people but also sets them free. It explores the feelings you have when you're surrounded by people but you feel impossibly alone and it shows the struggles of two people so weighed down by expectations that their next move will either be downright amazing or cause them to crash and burn. Daryl knows his story telling and I am so excited for when we have audio of this book because it will be a go to comfort re-read for sure!!!

[Ross Broadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m absolutely loving this newest installment in the Spruce Romance series by Daryl Banner. No Fool For Love Songs is so beautifully written. There’s this constant sense of anticipation that makes it impossible to stop reading.

What I love most is how immersive Banner’s writing feels. Every scene feels vivid and emotionally real, and the chemistry between the characters completely pulls you in. Reading this book honestly reminds me of my own college years — the excitement, uncertainty, and thrill of first starting to date and discovering who you are.

Daryl Banner has such a talent for creating characters and worlds that feel authentic and heartfelt. This series just keeps getting better, and this book might be one of my favorites yet.

[Brenda Motza · Rating 5 out of 5]

"He wants to love you out loud..."

OH, my heart. These two boys just stole my heart, and they aren't giving it back.

How can you be lonely when you're in a room full of people. It's very easy and then it's hard to get out of that funk. TJ and Austin were both in the same place but with a different view.

I was in happy tears by the end of chapter 17 and trust me, you will be too.

I just loved this book so hard, and Daryl is the best storyteller. I cannot wait for more from Spruce, TX.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It gave me all the feels and like all the other books in the Spruce Texas series left me wanting more! The characters grow through out the entire story and their love for each other is sweet. Getting to little bits of characters from previous books is always great as well! I highly recommend this book as well as all the other books in this series! You will not be disappointed in any of them!

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my! This extremely well written love story pulled at my heartstrings like few romances have over the past couple of years. The pure and innocent love that this couple exuded was such a joy to witness. The expert use of music and lyrics to help express emotions added a beautiful layer to the story. I didn’t want it to end. This is my first story set in Spruce, but not the first by this author. I look forward to exploring the rest of this series. Highly recommended.

[D.W. Michaels · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC READER-Thank you Daryl!

As a huge fan of all the Spruce Texas stories, this one was a special one. A Spruce resident that has sat quietly in the background and very likable feeling stuck meets a guy at a concert feeling equally stuck in his life and this story takes you through an accidental love story for the masses.

If you love Spruce Tx this is an instant read!

If you haven’t read any of the Spruce Texas series start from the beginning this book will be waiting patiently for you 🩷

[Cindy Fong · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great story set in Spruce. TJ and Austin have an interesting meet-cute, but the spark was lit from that moment on. Both TJ and Austin are at crossroads in their life. TJ doesn't want to go into the family business. Austin isn't feeling the creative spark in his music. As they get closer. Austin find his muse in TJ but their relationship could spiral both of not careful. This is a slow-burn story of forging your destiny to be with the one you want.

[Jimbo · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is, "Damn you, Daryl Banner!" I have loved all the Spruce books, but somehow, this one was exceptionally heartwarming and beautiful. It got me. It really did.
Yes, it is kind of a magical, imaginary place, this Spruce, Texas, where the whole town loves gay couples, but that is part of the charm. It is a world of rivalry filled with love.
I'll say it again,"Damn you, Daryl Banner!"
I loved this book.

[Ania · Rating 3 out of 5]

Miałam ochotę na romans z muzykiem więc przypadkiem trafiłam na tą serię. Chyba warto czytać historie miłosne, które dzieją się w tym miasteczku po kolei bo widać, że jest to już wiele związków i wielu bohaterów przewija się również w tej historii. Chyba mogę to nazwać małomiasteczkowym romansem był do bólu słodki, wszyscy są wspierający i kochani a sceny erotyczne nie są zbyt szczegółowe.

[Debby Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best one yet

I love the whole series, but the love that develops between TJ and Austin is the most pure and real of any of the characters so far. Their story is sweet and honest. No conflict with them...they stand together against conflict. They fit each other like gloves. Love this couple and this story!

[Christie Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Fool For Love Songs

Timothy and Chase or TJ and Austin doesn't matter what they go by. I really enjoyed the book and loved the characters. Sweetest book I've read in a bit. Truly love this series.

[Gregg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gotta read this one

Great Banner book full of relatable people and acceptance with love. Low angst, believable spice. Another excellent book in the series.

[Teresa Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series
Love Tj and Austin's heartstopping broken beautiful love story
Gripping
All the feels
Gimme mire

[Matt · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.8

[James Cubby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Couldn’t put this book down read in two days one of my favorite summer reads a perfect musical romance I highly recommend it

[devil · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed reading about this fictional town of Spruce, and this book was no exception. As expected with stories by this author, I adored these characters from the very beginning, and was super invested in their journey together. This book (and the whole Spruce Texas series, really) is amazing! Highly recommended!!