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Portland Heat #4
Knit Tight
It’s no secret that Portland, Oregon, has some of best restaurants, shops, and cafés in the country. But it’s the hard-working men who serve it all up that keep us coming back for more...
One of Portland’s hottest young baristas, Brady is famous for his java-topping flair, turning a regular cup of joe into a work of art. Every Wednesday—aka “Knit Night”—hordes of women and their needles descend on the coffeehouse, and Brady’s feeling the heat. Into the fray walks a tall, dark, and distractingly handsome stranger from New York. His name is Evren, and he’s the sexy nephew of Brady’s sweetest customer, the owner of the yarn shop down the street. He’s also got a killer smile, confident air, and masculine charm that’s tying Brady’s stomach in knots. The smitten barista can’t wait to see him at the next week’s gathering. But when he tries to ask Evren out, his plans unravel faster than an unfinished edge. If Brady hopes to warm up more than Evren’s coffee, he’ll have to find a way to untangle their feelings, get out of the friend zone, and form a close-knit bond that’s bound to last a lifetime…
One of Portland’s hottest young baristas, Brady is famous for his java-topping flair, turning a regular cup of joe into a work of art. Every Wednesday—aka “Knit Night”—hordes of women and their needles descend on the coffeehouse, and Brady’s feeling the heat. Into the fray walks a tall, dark, and distractingly handsome stranger from New York. His name is Evren, and he’s the sexy nephew of Brady’s sweetest customer, the owner of the yarn shop down the street. He’s also got a killer smile, confident air, and masculine charm that’s tying Brady’s stomach in knots. The smitten barista can’t wait to see him at the next week’s gathering. But when he tries to ask Evren out, his plans unravel faster than an unfinished edge. If Brady hopes to warm up more than Evren’s coffee, he’ll have to find a way to untangle their feelings, get out of the friend zone, and form a close-knit bond that’s bound to last a lifetime…
112 pages, ebook
First published April 12, 2016
87 people are currently reading
760 people want to read
About the author
Annabeth Albert
111 books3,762 followersFrequent tweeter, professional grammar nerd, and obsessive reader, Annabeth Albert is also a Pacific Northwest romance writer in a variety of subgenres.
Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two toddlers.
Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two toddlers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
April 15, 2016
Ouch.
This review physically pains me because I adore Annabeth Albert, and I'm a huge fan of her Portland Heat series. My average rating for her books hovers around 4 stars, and she is one of my auto-buy authors. That being said, this book was pretty disappointing.
I guess this book is a romance, but it felt barely romantic to me. Evren kept Brady at arm's length throughout the entire book, and even at the end I felt like they barely had a friendship going between them. I didn't feel any love, and I didn't feel much chemistry at all.
Evren came across as aloof and like a jerk, if I'm being honest. He was very judgy about Brady being bisexual, and I don't think I felt like he learned anything about bisexuality over the course of the story. He sort of begrudgingly accepted it at the end, but I felt like he was downright hostile about it at times.
I also had a problem with Evren's speech. The way he talked was off-putting, and I know that the author was trying to show his culture or that English wasn't his first language, but the overly formal way of speaking, combined with the lack of his POV, made it very hard for me to get to know him. I felt like I was viewing Evren from a distance and never getting to know him any further.
I liked Brady, and I was really touched by his struggles with his family. He was sweet and hardworking, and my wishing for him to get his HEA is the only thing that kept me reading. It took me daaayyyys to read this book, and it is only a novella.
While not bad, I can't say that I particularly liked this one. And that makes me grumpy.
**Copy provided in exchange for an honest review**
This review physically pains me because I adore Annabeth Albert, and I'm a huge fan of her Portland Heat series. My average rating for her books hovers around 4 stars, and she is one of my auto-buy authors. That being said, this book was pretty disappointing.
I guess this book is a romance, but it felt barely romantic to me. Evren kept Brady at arm's length throughout the entire book, and even at the end I felt like they barely had a friendship going between them. I didn't feel any love, and I didn't feel much chemistry at all.
Evren came across as aloof and like a jerk, if I'm being honest. He was very judgy about Brady being bisexual, and I don't think I felt like he learned anything about bisexuality over the course of the story. He sort of begrudgingly accepted it at the end, but I felt like he was downright hostile about it at times.
I also had a problem with Evren's speech. The way he talked was off-putting, and I know that the author was trying to show his culture or that English wasn't his first language, but the overly formal way of speaking, combined with the lack of his POV, made it very hard for me to get to know him. I felt like I was viewing Evren from a distance and never getting to know him any further.
I liked Brady, and I was really touched by his struggles with his family. He was sweet and hardworking, and my wishing for him to get his HEA is the only thing that kept me reading. It took me daaayyyys to read this book, and it is only a novella.
While not bad, I can't say that I particularly liked this one. And that makes me grumpy.
**Copy provided in exchange for an honest review**
February 29, 2016
Okay, somehow this is the second book in a row that I've read where the characters are not at liberty to spend as much time together as they'd like and I can unequivocally say that, no, I do not like that.
Stories with lots of distance and separation during the 'getting to know you' phase make me ragey and don't allow me to mentally invest in the relationship, as I'm not shown how deep their connection runs or why. It's just supposed to have happened. Somehow. Not a fan.
Yes, we're told about a lot of nightly phone calls, but not really shown many in-depth conversations, so other than Ev's aunt's this one's level of feels was pretty low for me.
I did appreciate how Brady's priorities shifted when 'the big event' happened, but there previously-slow relationship seemed to immediately jump into hyper drive at that point, which felt ridiculously fast, to the point of unbelievable.
As for the 'sexy' parts, well, I found a lot of them fairly awkward.
That trend started when Ev divulges that he's extremely squicked out about getting anything on his hands, then ratcheted up to a full-on eye roll when Brady goes into great detail about his intense love of I just found all of that more odd than sexy, sorry.
As the epilogue does cement an HEA, which did help a bit, I'd rate this one around 3 stars, so fairly average, but nothing mind-blowing.
Note: After reading this one, I've definitely come to two conclusions.
1.) For my next book, I want both MC's to be highly available to one another. If they practically live in one another's pockets, right from the get go, all the better. I want to see why I'm expected to believe that they care so deeply for one another.
2.) If I read one more fucking book about hipsters, I'm likely to goddamn snap. Last year, nearly every book was 'gay weddings' and this year it's hipsters. I'm so beyond done with hipsters. Please, make it stop!
My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
March 2, 2016
While I love Annabeth Albert's work and have added two of her books to my Best M/M Romance shelf, this one didn't make me feel all warm and cozy.
The writing is pitch perfect, of course, and I do love the Portland setting, but I didn't fully connect with either MC, particularly Evren.
Brady, a barista, is a good guy. Following his parents' death, he's raising three young kids on his own with little help from his annoying and rather selfish 18-year-old sister.
Evren, abandoned by his conservative Turkish family for being gay, has returned to Portland from New York to take care of his beloved aunt who's in the last stages of pancreatic cancer. His aunt owns a knitting shop, and Ev is a knit designer and has a very popular knitting blog.
Ev wants Brady to rely on him, and he's great with the kids, but he won't let Brady in at all. Initially, Ev insists he and Brady can only be friends since he doesn't date bisexual men. The friendship progresses to flirting and kissing, but Ev is fastidious to a fault: no body fluids, no penetration. He prefers sex with clothes ON, which, yeah, isn't sexy at all.
There's much cuteness surrounding the ladies who attend knit night at the coffee shop where Brady works. Ev knits Brady socks, which is all kinds of adorbs.
Both Brady and Ev realize that you make your own family and that it's okay to ask for help. Their HEA is solid.
I liked this book, but it didn't make me swoon.
The writing is pitch perfect, of course, and I do love the Portland setting, but I didn't fully connect with either MC, particularly Evren.
Brady, a barista, is a good guy. Following his parents' death, he's raising three young kids on his own with little help from his annoying and rather selfish 18-year-old sister.
Evren, abandoned by his conservative Turkish family for being gay, has returned to Portland from New York to take care of his beloved aunt who's in the last stages of pancreatic cancer. His aunt owns a knitting shop, and Ev is a knit designer and has a very popular knitting blog.
Ev wants Brady to rely on him, and he's great with the kids, but he won't let Brady in at all. Initially, Ev insists he and Brady can only be friends since he doesn't date bisexual men. The friendship progresses to flirting and kissing, but Ev is fastidious to a fault: no body fluids, no penetration. He prefers sex with clothes ON, which, yeah, isn't sexy at all.
There's much cuteness surrounding the ladies who attend knit night at the coffee shop where Brady works. Ev knits Brady socks, which is all kinds of adorbs.
Both Brady and Ev realize that you make your own family and that it's okay to ask for help. Their HEA is solid.
I liked this book, but it didn't make me swoon.
March 1, 2016
Knit Tight is the fourth installment in the Portland Heat Series by Annabeth Albert. In this fourth book, Brady finally gets his happily ever after. He's at a point in his life where he's stretched thin. He's a 23-year-old who is raising his younger siblings after the death of his mother and step-father. It's during this time one of his favorite customers- Mira is fighting cancer and her nephew Evren comes from New York to Portland to help her.
Right off the bat, I'll tell you if you're going into this book expecting one of Annabeth Albert's fluffy feel good vibe stories- you'll not get one here. This story carries a sad undertone. We have a young man struggling to keep his family together, and another trying to help his dying aunt who took him after being shunned by his Turkish parents for being gay. There're many obstacles for these two, and then you have to add Evren's bi-phobia. Evren is ok with being friends but is reluctant to take their budding friendship beyond that.
My highlights:
*Brady. I loved his personality. He was loving and loyal and brave. Despite knowing first hand what a bitch life can be he was still willing to put himself out there and fight for his happiness.
*Evren. Although he could come across as cold- I got him, and it was nice to see him open up as the story progressed.
*Relationship development. I just loved the way the author advanced their friendship into more.
*The stolen moments. They'll get me every time. They always give me butterflies.
*The melancholy feel of the story. Sometimes this works for me sometimes it doesn't. It suited my mood here, and it was also nice to see Annabeth Albert branching into something a little different from her norm.
*Evren's blog posts. You see the book is told strictly from Brady's point of view, and the blog posts gave us an insight into Evren's changing feelings.
*The end was a solid HEA.
But there is one thing that bugged me- a lot. Mind you this could be considered a spoiler so read at your own risk.
Steam. People always want to know- including me. This one is not too steamy folks. Stolen moments here and there but that's about it.
As far as this being the fourth book in the series- can you read it without reading the rest? Absolutely.
In the end, I found this a touching story about family and perseverance and of opening your heart to others despite being afraid. All in all, I'll give this book 4 Healing Stars.
ARC kindly provided by Lyrical Shine via NetGalley for an honest review.
This review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
March 25, 2016
Another beautiful, heart-warming comfort read by Annabeth Albert.
I'm a little in love with Albert's writing and her way of telling her stories. Her characters seem so real and you can't help but take an immediate shine to them.
This book was sweet and romantic without being cheesy, a little angsty and tragic, and incredibly sexy, of course.
Just as cozy as its cover.
After having read Status Update a few months back, I knew I wanted to read more books by this author. Her Portland Heat series seemed to be right up my alley, but for some reason I never got around to it, so thanks to NetGalley for giving me a little shove in the right direction because now I definitely need to read the rest of the series.
This book can be read as a standalone.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 29, 2016
Cozy read with some fluffy goodness.
Brady, barista extraordinaire is raising his siblings after their parents are killed in an accident. Life is busy and filled with more responsibilities than the average young twenty-something. Free time--Ha. Extra money-Ha, ha. Though he never regrets his decisions, Brady's got more wishes than fishes.
Evren, the alluring nephew of a local shop owner, visits and during Knit Night Brady and he meet. While there's zings and interest, they're both busy guys and neither is looking for a quick fix. Both are dealing with their sense of being an outsider in different ways, learning that accepting help isn't a negation of their abilities or actions, and finding common ground and interests.
I have to say there were some interesting social issues addressed, albeit in a gentle manner. I also really liked the multicultural aspect to the story. How Evren's heritage and beliefs were introduced without being spectacle, as well as the cultural biases. There was more tension over the bisexuality and it hit the issue head on in addition to anal sex which is not the be all and end all of male-male sexual relations. I enjoyed the approach and execution.
That said, the guys have exterior issues that are dominant in their lives which overshadow them individually or as a pair. If you like the 'busy and making it work' couples' stories or family based stories then this is good. For me personally, I found the circumstances overpowering to the characters. Though I enjoyed it; it wasn't a homerun.
Overall, a romance that takes backseat to family.
3.5 stars
~~ARC provided by NetGalley~~
Brady, barista extraordinaire is raising his siblings after their parents are killed in an accident. Life is busy and filled with more responsibilities than the average young twenty-something. Free time--Ha. Extra money-Ha, ha. Though he never regrets his decisions, Brady's got more wishes than fishes.
Evren, the alluring nephew of a local shop owner, visits and during Knit Night Brady and he meet. While there's zings and interest, they're both busy guys and neither is looking for a quick fix. Both are dealing with their sense of being an outsider in different ways, learning that accepting help isn't a negation of their abilities or actions, and finding common ground and interests.
I have to say there were some interesting social issues addressed, albeit in a gentle manner. I also really liked the multicultural aspect to the story. How Evren's heritage and beliefs were introduced without being spectacle, as well as the cultural biases. There was more tension over the bisexuality and it hit the issue head on in addition to anal sex which is not the be all and end all of male-male sexual relations. I enjoyed the approach and execution.
That said, the guys have exterior issues that are dominant in their lives which overshadow them individually or as a pair. If you like the 'busy and making it work' couples' stories or family based stories then this is good. For me personally, I found the circumstances overpowering to the characters. Though I enjoyed it; it wasn't a homerun.
Overall, a romance that takes backseat to family.
3.5 stars
~~ARC provided by NetGalley~~
July 5, 2016
Este no me ha gustado tanto :/
El esquema, similar a los anteriores aquí no resuelve. El enamoramiento entre Brady y Ev me ha resultado cero creíble, ¿insta-lust?? Todo el del mundo, pero esos niveles de amor cuando apenas se ven e interaccionan, pues como que no. Ojo, y no hablo de insta-love, que llevan bastante tiempo ya juntos cuando resuenan los ecos amorosos.
Aún así, me leeré el 5 en cuanto salga.
El esquema, similar a los anteriores aquí no resuelve. El enamoramiento entre Brady y Ev me ha resultado cero creíble, ¿insta-lust?? Todo el del mundo, pero esos niveles de amor cuando apenas se ven e interaccionan, pues como que no. Ojo, y no hablo de insta-love, que llevan bastante tiempo ya juntos cuando resuenan los ecos amorosos.
Aún así, me leeré el 5 en cuanto salga.
March 14, 2016
Knit Tight is the fourth installment in Annabeth Albert's Portland Heat" series. If you haven't read the previous books, no worries, each title can be read separately.
Sometimes, it is difficult to completely love a story when it feels unbalanced -- e.g. you love one character but dislike the love interest. As in the case with this one. It was easy for me to love Brady the barista whom at relatively young age must takes care of his younger siblings. I found him to be such a nice guy, reliable, and mature.
On the other hand, I couldn't warm up to Evren. It wasn't even about his kink (he didn't like anal or skin on skin sex, too messy) because as an asexual I can relate to not prioritizing sex above all else, penetration or otherwise, but it was more about him keeping Brady on arm's length. The relationship between the two of them felt one sided.
See, to me, it seemed that Brady is the one yearning enough to get any scraps from Evren. He has to deal with Evren's 'rules' of "no drama, no false problems, no anal" but Evren doesn't really do anything in return. Sure, yeah, he helps Brady once in a while in terms of taking care the young'uns, but when it comes to the personal part, he doesn't want to share his problem and just pushes Brady away. At parts where I should feel sympathetic, all I felt was annoyance. Yes, Evren was just too cold and distant for me to root for him.
So the whole progress between Evren's not trusting Brady in the beginning (Brady is bisexual, Evren is ... not happy) to friendship to lovers ... and then THAT ending just felt off. Also there were times when I felt like I was being told rather than shown about how Evren and Brady finally connected.
Other things that I wasn't too fond of was the part about Brady's bisexuality. This is probably the third book in matter of weeks where I encounter bisexual guys. Two of those books dealing with the gay guy not trusting the bi-guy that they can fully 'commit' to one gender. I admit, this might be the huge issue that any bisexuals must face. But the way that it's written here in the beginning, somehow I feel like I'm being preached upon. When Brady mused "God. Why did I constantly feel like a PSA for bisexual marginalization?", I wanted to say, yeah, this did sound like a PSA.
I guess I just don't want keep being reminded blatantly when I read my fiction. I don't mind books with social issues but I prefer them to be given to me in more subtle and natural kind of way, rather than the character listing out wrong perceptions about one sexuality. I like that I can think about it rather than just nodding in agreement. I guess I assume that M/M readers in general is more open towards the other letters in the LGBTQIA spectrum anyway, disregard whether they want to read each letter's romance or not.
I'm not disliking this but I'm not mind-blown with it either. So far, book #3 (Delivered Fast) is still my favorite.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Sometimes, it is difficult to completely love a story when it feels unbalanced -- e.g. you love one character but dislike the love interest. As in the case with this one. It was easy for me to love Brady the barista whom at relatively young age must takes care of his younger siblings. I found him to be such a nice guy, reliable, and mature.
On the other hand, I couldn't warm up to Evren. It wasn't even about his kink (he didn't like anal or skin on skin sex, too messy) because as an asexual I can relate to not prioritizing sex above all else, penetration or otherwise, but it was more about him keeping Brady on arm's length. The relationship between the two of them felt one sided.
See, to me, it seemed that Brady is the one yearning enough to get any scraps from Evren. He has to deal with Evren's 'rules' of "no drama, no false problems, no anal" but Evren doesn't really do anything in return. Sure, yeah, he helps Brady once in a while in terms of taking care the young'uns, but when it comes to the personal part, he doesn't want to share his problem and just pushes Brady away. At parts where I should feel sympathetic, all I felt was annoyance. Yes, Evren was just too cold and distant for me to root for him.
So the whole progress between Evren's not trusting Brady in the beginning (Brady is bisexual, Evren is ... not happy) to friendship to lovers ... and then THAT ending just felt off. Also there were times when I felt like I was being told rather than shown about how Evren and Brady finally connected.
Other things that I wasn't too fond of was the part about Brady's bisexuality. This is probably the third book in matter of weeks where I encounter bisexual guys. Two of those books dealing with the gay guy not trusting the bi-guy that they can fully 'commit' to one gender. I admit, this might be the huge issue that any bisexuals must face. But the way that it's written here in the beginning, somehow I feel like I'm being preached upon. When Brady mused "God. Why did I constantly feel like a PSA for bisexual marginalization?", I wanted to say, yeah, this did sound like a PSA.
I guess I just don't want keep being reminded blatantly when I read my fiction. I don't mind books with social issues but I prefer them to be given to me in more subtle and natural kind of way, rather than the character listing out wrong perceptions about one sexuality. I like that I can think about it rather than just nodding in agreement. I guess I assume that M/M readers in general is more open towards the other letters in the LGBTQIA spectrum anyway, disregard whether they want to read each letter's romance or not.
I'm not disliking this but I'm not mind-blown with it either. So far, book #3 (Delivered Fast) is still my favorite.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
April 12, 2016
**3.5 stars**
While not my favourite in the series –nothing holds a candle to Delivered Fast (Portland Heat #3) –the 4th book in the Portland Heat universe was a cute enough read.
Brady is a 23-year old barista with a super complicated family life. His time is limited and his opportunities to date even more so. Lucky for him, one of his regular customer’s nephews shows up to help out in the family store and Brady develops a very serious crush. Evren is originally from Turkey, he has strong family values, and has come to the rescue since his dear auntie has some health problems –to put it lightly. Evren comes off as quite uptight, but very charming and the sexual chemistry jumps off the page right off the bat.
But. Brady has literally no time like a normal 23-year old would. Evren is closed off, has a strong fear of bisexuals, and even though they sort of flirt and they sort of become closer, everything is just so very strained that I struggled to enjoy reading about them. I loved Brady and absolutely respected his priorities and commitments. I also understood that Evren did not trust easily and wanted more than a little attraction to go the extra mile with someone. But it felt like every step of the way there was an obstacle. Especially when it came to sex. One of the reasons I absolutely loved the third book in the series and why it’s one of my all-time favourites in fact, is that the sexual relationship developed organically; it was ultra steamy/kinky/hot; and it acted as a catalyst to propel character growth and plot development. Here, there were so many damn restrictions, I felt like poor Brady needed a manual to know how to fit in Evren’s world. First, he had to convince Evren that being bisexual does not mean Brady has a free for all policy and would cheat and sleep with just anybody at any given time. I did not appreciate that one of the main characters held those sort of beliefs –I get it dude, you’ve had it bad in the past with someone, but come on. Then it was all about how Evren did not like messiness and bodily fluids and anal. Some of the most emotional sex scenes I’ve ever read have come from messy, raunchy, filthy sex scenes, and while anal is definitely not a requirement, that sort of “don’t touch without disinfecting before” vibe is a turn-off. There are some sex scenes in this book, few and far between, but they’re short, and the dirty-talk attempted fell flat for me.
Overall, I think Brady was compromising with someone difficult whose heart might have been in the right place but Evren was just too high maintenance. I liked their HEA and how their respective family issues were resolved in the end, however bittersweet that resolution may have been, but the journey there was more filled with doubt and worry for me (and for them) than with hope for something better.
Obviously, it’s an Annabeth Albert book, so it’s well written. I loved the writing style, the story flowed easily, and the plot was smooth to follow. But I just wished for more. More time, more relationship stuff, more emotion, more spontaneity, just more. I will still recommend it as well-written romance, but it’s not of those that made an impression for me by this author.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. See this review at Gay Book reviews.
While not my favourite in the series –nothing holds a candle to Delivered Fast (Portland Heat #3) –the 4th book in the Portland Heat universe was a cute enough read.
Brady is a 23-year old barista with a super complicated family life. His time is limited and his opportunities to date even more so. Lucky for him, one of his regular customer’s nephews shows up to help out in the family store and Brady develops a very serious crush. Evren is originally from Turkey, he has strong family values, and has come to the rescue since his dear auntie has some health problems –to put it lightly. Evren comes off as quite uptight, but very charming and the sexual chemistry jumps off the page right off the bat.
But. Brady has literally no time like a normal 23-year old would. Evren is closed off, has a strong fear of bisexuals, and even though they sort of flirt and they sort of become closer, everything is just so very strained that I struggled to enjoy reading about them. I loved Brady and absolutely respected his priorities and commitments. I also understood that Evren did not trust easily and wanted more than a little attraction to go the extra mile with someone. But it felt like every step of the way there was an obstacle. Especially when it came to sex. One of the reasons I absolutely loved the third book in the series and why it’s one of my all-time favourites in fact, is that the sexual relationship developed organically; it was ultra steamy/kinky/hot; and it acted as a catalyst to propel character growth and plot development. Here, there were so many damn restrictions, I felt like poor Brady needed a manual to know how to fit in Evren’s world. First, he had to convince Evren that being bisexual does not mean Brady has a free for all policy and would cheat and sleep with just anybody at any given time. I did not appreciate that one of the main characters held those sort of beliefs –I get it dude, you’ve had it bad in the past with someone, but come on. Then it was all about how Evren did not like messiness and bodily fluids and anal. Some of the most emotional sex scenes I’ve ever read have come from messy, raunchy, filthy sex scenes, and while anal is definitely not a requirement, that sort of “don’t touch without disinfecting before” vibe is a turn-off. There are some sex scenes in this book, few and far between, but they’re short, and the dirty-talk attempted fell flat for me.
Overall, I think Brady was compromising with someone difficult whose heart might have been in the right place but Evren was just too high maintenance. I liked their HEA and how their respective family issues were resolved in the end, however bittersweet that resolution may have been, but the journey there was more filled with doubt and worry for me (and for them) than with hope for something better.
Obviously, it’s an Annabeth Albert book, so it’s well written. I loved the writing style, the story flowed easily, and the plot was smooth to follow. But I just wished for more. More time, more relationship stuff, more emotion, more spontaneity, just more. I will still recommend it as well-written romance, but it’s not of those that made an impression for me by this author.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. See this review at Gay Book reviews.
April 17, 2018
2.5 stars
I never got over the fact that Evren said he didn't date bisexuals, and was generally full of bi antagonism and stereotypes about bi folks. I especially disliked that he was one of the only characters of color in the book, and had that kind of queer hatred. Because of the bi antagonism, I just couldn't root for him or for them as a couple.
Read my full review on my blog.
Content Warnings
I never got over the fact that Evren said he didn't date bisexuals, and was generally full of bi antagonism and stereotypes about bi folks. I especially disliked that he was one of the only characters of color in the book, and had that kind of queer hatred. Because of the bi antagonism, I just couldn't root for him or for them as a couple.
Read my full review on my blog.
Content Warnings
March 2, 2016
A sweet, uncomplicated romance with some deeper tones, while this yarn isn't a yawn by any means...it's quite quiet in its tone.
Brady is only twenty three but already learning to live with the devastating loss of his parents in an accident while raising his four younger siblings.
Evren is twenty eight and has moved back to Portland in order to care for his beloved aunt who helped raise him as she battles pancreatic cancer.
The two meet, and though there is an initial attraction on both sides, Brady is dealing with being a parental figure to three small children and one teenager, and Ev not only has issues with Brady's bisexuality, he also has some hangups/kinks about sex (he prefers clothes on, no mess, and no anal) that Brady has to compromise on.
Brady and Ev agree to become friends, but eventually their attraction grows and they finally come together and build a relationship.
Bottom line: While it's not my favorite in the series, this was a sweet, low angst, friends to lovers romance with some nice hurt/comfort and kinky sexy times.
Advanced review copy of Knit Tight provided by author through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Brady is only twenty three but already learning to live with the devastating loss of his parents in an accident while raising his four younger siblings.
Evren is twenty eight and has moved back to Portland in order to care for his beloved aunt who helped raise him as she battles pancreatic cancer.
The two meet, and though there is an initial attraction on both sides, Brady is dealing with being a parental figure to three small children and one teenager, and Ev not only has issues with Brady's bisexuality, he also has some hangups/kinks about sex (he prefers clothes on, no mess, and no anal) that Brady has to compromise on.
Brady and Ev agree to become friends, but eventually their attraction grows and they finally come together and build a relationship.
Bottom line: While it's not my favorite in the series, this was a sweet, low angst, friends to lovers romance with some nice hurt/comfort and kinky sexy times.
Advanced review copy of Knit Tight provided by author through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
April 12, 2016
I am a HUGE fan of this author, but this story didn't quite do it for me like her other stories. We had a great start while we were introduced to Brady, a 23yo barista with some links back to previous characters in the series. He and his 18yo sister are raising their other 3 siblings after the death of their parents. And every Wednesday evening, a large knitting group of women come into his coffee shop to convene.
It's during one of these "Knit Nights" that a walking wet dream of tall, dark, and handsome walks in with his aunt - Brady's favorite customer. This aunt helped to raise Evren, and she's battling pancreatic cancer. Evren moved home from NYC to care for this special person in his life.
So, we get two incredibly selfless MCs right from the start. Pure hearts, these two. And they immediately begin the eye contact, back and forth with the *looks* and smiles and flirting. It was so endearingly swoon-worthy.
My swooning halted pretty quickly when Ev puts the breaks on any chance of dating. See, he finds out Brady is bisexual and has a rule for himself after being burned in the past. It's handled well for his reasons why - not that they're valid or not stereotypical- but they're realistic and apply to a lot of people. But my swooning didn't necessarily stop there....maybe just paused. The stopping came with this little revelation from Ev:
I won't apologize for the fact that fucking - penetration - is my second favorite part of sexual interactions between my MCs, right behind kissing. Combined with the judgment and prejudice about bisexuals, and I wasn't feeling much love for Ev at this point. Even though he's awesome for moving to care for his beloved aunt.
Don't get me wrong, the writing was still spot-on amazing, just like I expect from Albert. And I wasn't entirely *worried* at this point because she's one of those authors who can make me love this judgey guy who won't give me any anal. And the fact that this romance was multi-cultural, bringing in Turkish-isms and endearments - well I was still enjoying all that with this great writer.
But I have to say that I never warmed up to Evren. He and Brady have some amazingly tender, sweet, and HOT moments. Seriously hot. But he always kepy Brady at arms-length. So I can't say that I was able to be "brought around" to even liking him as an MC.
Additionally, the drama with Brady's sister was handled realistically, as an 18 yo would react to their current situation of raising 3 kids. Not that she didn't work my last nerve, but it was realistic.
The HEA is....sweet. It just wasn't great. Probably because I wasn't loving Ev still, so it could be tinted with my feelings. A solid HEA though, not a HFN. I just felt like Brady was compromising for Ev the entire story with regard to their relationship. And Evren just.....wasn't. He was who he was, and that was it.
So, I'm settling on 3 stars. I liked it - I just didn't love it. I still enjoyed the overall story, and you won't ever be disappointed in Albert's writing style. If you're a fan of hers, I'd still recommend.
It's during one of these "Knit Nights" that a walking wet dream of tall, dark, and handsome walks in with his aunt - Brady's favorite customer. This aunt helped to raise Evren, and she's battling pancreatic cancer. Evren moved home from NYC to care for this special person in his life.
So, we get two incredibly selfless MCs right from the start. Pure hearts, these two. And they immediately begin the eye contact, back and forth with the *looks* and smiles and flirting. It was so endearingly swoon-worthy.
My swooning halted pretty quickly when Ev puts the breaks on any chance of dating. See, he finds out Brady is bisexual and has a rule for himself after being burned in the past. It's handled well for his reasons why - not that they're valid or not stereotypical- but they're realistic and apply to a lot of people. But my swooning didn't necessarily stop there....maybe just paused. The stopping came with this little revelation from Ev:
"Ah. You don't bottom? Don't take this the wrong way, Ev, but I'm pretty sure both New York and Portland are filled with guys dying for you to top them." Take me, for instance.
"I do not. Or top. Much."
Now there was an interesting wrinkle. I sat up, hands on my knees. "So no bi guys, no drama, and no anal? That's quite the list, Ev."
"Like I said, I'm...hard to please."
I won't apologize for the fact that fucking - penetration - is my second favorite part of sexual interactions between my MCs, right behind kissing. Combined with the judgment and prejudice about bisexuals, and I wasn't feeling much love for Ev at this point. Even though he's awesome for moving to care for his beloved aunt.
Don't get me wrong, the writing was still spot-on amazing, just like I expect from Albert. And I wasn't entirely *worried* at this point because she's one of those authors who can make me love this judgey guy who won't give me any anal. And the fact that this romance was multi-cultural, bringing in Turkish-isms and endearments - well I was still enjoying all that with this great writer.
But I have to say that I never warmed up to Evren. He and Brady have some amazingly tender, sweet, and HOT moments. Seriously hot. But he always kepy Brady at arms-length. So I can't say that I was able to be "brought around" to even liking him as an MC.
Additionally, the drama with Brady's sister was handled realistically, as an 18 yo would react to their current situation of raising 3 kids. Not that she didn't work my last nerve, but it was realistic.
The HEA is....sweet. It just wasn't great. Probably because I wasn't loving Ev still, so it could be tinted with my feelings. A solid HEA though, not a HFN. I just felt like Brady was compromising for Ev the entire story with regard to their relationship. And Evren just.....wasn't. He was who he was, and that was it.
So, I'm settling on 3 stars. I liked it - I just didn't love it. I still enjoyed the overall story, and you won't ever be disappointed in Albert's writing style. If you're a fan of hers, I'd still recommend.
June 7, 2017
Ah brace yourself for another angsty addition...
Here Brady and Evren both have the weight of the world on their shoulders, each with many responsibilities and too little time for themselves, let alone for something more.
Being friends is what's decided. Friends who text and call. Friends who kiss. Friends who sex each other up and rely on each other more and more.
This was a bit different in the smex department which other reviewers have commented on. I admit that I too wanted and missed those specific aspects, but really, that's just a matter of preferences. My least favorite in this series but regardless, Albert continues to deliver great storytelling with emotion, heart, and a little dirty thrown in.
Here Brady and Evren both have the weight of the world on their shoulders, each with many responsibilities and too little time for themselves, let alone for something more.
Being friends is what's decided. Friends who text and call. Friends who kiss. Friends who sex each other up and rely on each other more and more.
This was a bit different in the smex department which other reviewers have commented on. I admit that I too wanted and missed those specific aspects, but really, that's just a matter of preferences. My least favorite in this series but regardless, Albert continues to deliver great storytelling with emotion, heart, and a little dirty thrown in.
January 5, 2019
Very, very sweet. I enjoyed the story on this one...
May 2, 2016
3.5! Short and sweet, I haven't read the first 3 books but it read well as a standalone.
June 29, 2017
*** Another marvelous, heartwarming story in this lovely series by Annabeth Albert. I have enjoyed other books as well.
* Brady, 23, is a talented Barista, with a bun, and nipple rings, is raising his 4 siblings since their folks died.
I appreciated that our author knew that when kids parents die, the children get a Social Security check to help raise them.
On Knit Night, the ladies descend, and a particular tall, Turkish, handsome man shows up.
He's Mira's nephew, * Evren, 28, who is helping her through her Chemo and also with the Knit Shop. He knits, blogs, and writes books. They become friends first as Brady shows Evren around the area. They watch TV, talk and cook. It's an unusual pair, as Ev doesn't care for messy or penetrative sex, and Brady loves everything, but they make it work. The men are creative, kinky, sweet, and dirty, too. Wow.
Brady and Ev need each other more and more.
Ev's time with his Hala Mira is almost up, and Brady stretches himself thinner and thinner.
Each man is struck by the community outpouring of help, food, and care, when Mira loses her battle. The blogs by Evren throughout the book are splendid and expressive, and add to the character beautifully.
Our characters are so deeply thought-filled, charming and duty bound. Their realization of the neighborly acceptance is grand. The love is the forever kind of love, and we are happy to have been in their lives for a short while.
Magnificent. Highly recommend ! ENJOY !
================
* Brady, 23, is a talented Barista, with a bun, and nipple rings, is raising his 4 siblings since their folks died.
I appreciated that our author knew that when kids parents die, the children get a Social Security check to help raise them.
On Knit Night, the ladies descend, and a particular tall, Turkish, handsome man shows up.
He's Mira's nephew, * Evren, 28, who is helping her through her Chemo and also with the Knit Shop. He knits, blogs, and writes books. They become friends first as Brady shows Evren around the area. They watch TV, talk and cook. It's an unusual pair, as Ev doesn't care for messy or penetrative sex, and Brady loves everything, but they make it work. The men are creative, kinky, sweet, and dirty, too. Wow.
Brady and Ev need each other more and more.
Ev's time with his Hala Mira is almost up, and Brady stretches himself thinner and thinner.
Each man is struck by the community outpouring of help, food, and care, when Mira loses her battle. The blogs by Evren throughout the book are splendid and expressive, and add to the character beautifully.
Our characters are so deeply thought-filled, charming and duty bound. Their realization of the neighborly acceptance is grand. The love is the forever kind of love, and we are happy to have been in their lives for a short while.
Magnificent. Highly recommend ! ENJOY !
================
September 5, 2017
Where do I even BEGIN with this book. I said it before and I’ll say it again - Annabeth Albert is my personal genie. I asked for a straight character - I got sweet Renee. I asked for bisexual representation - I got Brady. Earlier, I’d asked for short stories of my favorite couples - here they were for free. That woman certainly knows how to completely enchant readers like me.
Brady’s situation is more serious than what other characters from Portland Heat have on their plates - Brady is twenty three year old, and after tragic accident that killed his parents, he is left on his own to support his younger siblings having only his eighteen year old sister Renee to help him. And Chris, his old nice boss and the protagonist from previous book, left the restaurant where Brady works to Randy, his not so nice ex. But Brady almost never complains, doing everything in his powers to create a home for his little siblings.
His love interest, Ev, is in similar situation - he doesn’t have to support anyone financially, but having his beloved aunt being slowly eaten by cancer is equally, if not more, emotionally draining. They both need somebody to talk to, somebody who would get them. Thank god those two meet each other. Well, until a very rude and insensitive comment from Ev.
Because Ev doesn’t do bisexuals. And let me tell you, can there be anything better than bisexuality representation in a book by Albert? Of course. Slamming biphobia. Because Brady promptly calls Ev out on it and never, ever apologizes for being who he is. I went through a relationship with a biphobic girl and I just wish I’d had Brady’s self esteem and knowledge of my own worth back then. It was also great that the whole biphobia didn’t went like “All bisexuals are greedy whores and secretly straight.” “No, they’re not.” “You’re right, they’re not.” Because people have prejudices, we all do, there’s no point in denying it. But what counts when it comes to our prejudices is our willingness to break our rules, to give someone a chance to prove us wrong. To try and see past our ideas. To allow other people to change our minds. And Ev and Brady do exactly this, with Ev being reluctant, but trying, and Brady being patient as fuck.
Their friendship is beautiful - Ev offering to help out with Brady’s siblings and Brady caring for Mira, and it grows into love so gradually you don’t even realize when things change. Their love story is told in small gestures and lingering looks (and steamy sexy times). I was afraid when Brady did the romantic gesture towards the end, because it didn’t really correspond with Albert’s usual way of characters choosing themselves, but then I realized - it wasn’t romantic. I would do exactly the same thing for my friends. Those two are first of all friends, everything else is a nice bonus.
Oh, and there’s one more thing that filled me with joy. They don’t have penetrative sex, not even once during the whole book, yet their relationship and sexlife is treated exactly the same as couples who do penetrative sex. I was waiting so long to finally read good erotic romance where the couple doesn’t have to insert anyone’s penis into anyone’s body to establish their relationship, and who else would give it to me than my genie. THANK YOU, ANNABETH, THANK YOU THANK YOU.
Supportive characters were either great (I loved Renee, even though she sometimes came off as bratty, but being eighteen year old and already having so much responsibility combined with a grief pretty much excuses anything she does in this book. And in the end, when Brady told her about how the barista competition went, it’s revealed how big of a heart she has. My precious princess), or entertaining (triplets, that’s all I’m saying).
I think that at this point, it’s safe to say that Portland Heat’s main theme was - you don’t have to be perfect to deserve love. All protagonists and their love interests are somehow fucked up, mostly courtesy of their shitty ex’s, but they all find a partner willing to fight for them and inspiring them to fight themselves. All books emphasize how hard it is, to believe in something good and lasting after being hurt, and how important is is to not shut yourself away. The notion that if you are the one who is always there for your partner, but never lean on them when you’re not at your best, can’t be called partnership, is present in all Albert’s books I’ve read so far and is equally needed. I’m so reading other Albert’s books.
Brady’s situation is more serious than what other characters from Portland Heat have on their plates - Brady is twenty three year old, and after tragic accident that killed his parents, he is left on his own to support his younger siblings having only his eighteen year old sister Renee to help him. And Chris, his old nice boss and the protagonist from previous book, left the restaurant where Brady works to Randy, his not so nice ex. But Brady almost never complains, doing everything in his powers to create a home for his little siblings.
His love interest, Ev, is in similar situation - he doesn’t have to support anyone financially, but having his beloved aunt being slowly eaten by cancer is equally, if not more, emotionally draining. They both need somebody to talk to, somebody who would get them. Thank god those two meet each other. Well, until a very rude and insensitive comment from Ev.
Because Ev doesn’t do bisexuals. And let me tell you, can there be anything better than bisexuality representation in a book by Albert? Of course. Slamming biphobia. Because Brady promptly calls Ev out on it and never, ever apologizes for being who he is. I went through a relationship with a biphobic girl and I just wish I’d had Brady’s self esteem and knowledge of my own worth back then. It was also great that the whole biphobia didn’t went like “All bisexuals are greedy whores and secretly straight.” “No, they’re not.” “You’re right, they’re not.” Because people have prejudices, we all do, there’s no point in denying it. But what counts when it comes to our prejudices is our willingness to break our rules, to give someone a chance to prove us wrong. To try and see past our ideas. To allow other people to change our minds. And Ev and Brady do exactly this, with Ev being reluctant, but trying, and Brady being patient as fuck.
Their friendship is beautiful - Ev offering to help out with Brady’s siblings and Brady caring for Mira, and it grows into love so gradually you don’t even realize when things change. Their love story is told in small gestures and lingering looks (and steamy sexy times). I was afraid when Brady did the romantic gesture towards the end, because it didn’t really correspond with Albert’s usual way of characters choosing themselves, but then I realized - it wasn’t romantic. I would do exactly the same thing for my friends. Those two are first of all friends, everything else is a nice bonus.
Oh, and there’s one more thing that filled me with joy. They don’t have penetrative sex, not even once during the whole book, yet their relationship and sexlife is treated exactly the same as couples who do penetrative sex. I was waiting so long to finally read good erotic romance where the couple doesn’t have to insert anyone’s penis into anyone’s body to establish their relationship, and who else would give it to me than my genie. THANK YOU, ANNABETH, THANK YOU THANK YOU.
Supportive characters were either great (I loved Renee, even though she sometimes came off as bratty, but being eighteen year old and already having so much responsibility combined with a grief pretty much excuses anything she does in this book. And in the end, when Brady told her about how the barista competition went, it’s revealed how big of a heart she has. My precious princess), or entertaining (triplets, that’s all I’m saying).
I think that at this point, it’s safe to say that Portland Heat’s main theme was - you don’t have to be perfect to deserve love. All protagonists and their love interests are somehow fucked up, mostly courtesy of their shitty ex’s, but they all find a partner willing to fight for them and inspiring them to fight themselves. All books emphasize how hard it is, to believe in something good and lasting after being hurt, and how important is is to not shut yourself away. The notion that if you are the one who is always there for your partner, but never lean on them when you’re not at your best, can’t be called partnership, is present in all Albert’s books I’ve read so far and is equally needed. I’m so reading other Albert’s books.
July 24, 2017
I like a great deal about this romance.
Brady is wonderful hardworking young man. He is providing for his family when his world collides with Evern a famous knit blogger who has come home to care for his Aunt and her yarn shop as she fights cancer.
Evern nor Brady have time to fall in love. When they decided its too late this becomes a compelling and kind romance about make room.
However, Evern is really closed in and the aspects of his character like his art and cultural background don't get explored as much as I would like. The issues with Brady's younger sister are really left tangled (this might be a reality but it didn't make for the best read.)
I love Brady but I wanted to feel as strongly about Evern for the book to be a real success. It still adds nicely to the series.
Brady is wonderful hardworking young man. He is providing for his family when his world collides with Evern a famous knit blogger who has come home to care for his Aunt and her yarn shop as she fights cancer.
Evern nor Brady have time to fall in love. When they decided its too late this becomes a compelling and kind romance about make room.
However, Evern is really closed in and the aspects of his character like his art and cultural background don't get explored as much as I would like. The issues with Brady's younger sister are really left tangled (this might be a reality but it didn't make for the best read.)
I love Brady but I wanted to feel as strongly about Evern for the book to be a real success. It still adds nicely to the series.
April 21, 2016
This fourth story in the Portland Heat series brings together a barista and a knitting designer. (Let's just pause and reflect on the awesome uniqueness of that combination for a moment......okay, on with the review). I really enjoyed the previous stories in this series (which were all food or drink related in some fashion) and we get that link here with Brady, a top notch barista at a Portland coffee shop. When he's not working he's helping his 18 year old sister care for their two younger siblings after the tragic death of their parents. Between working full time and supporting his family, he's got no time for a relationship - but that doesn't stop him from eyeing the new addition to 'Knit Night' at the cafe. Evren is in town to take care of his aunt, a woman who had a big hand in raising him, and who is part of the knitting group that meets Wednesday's at Brady's work. She's unfortunately been diagnosed with cancer and unable to keep running her yarn shop without help, which is where Ev has stepped in to help manage the shop and care for her during her treatments. Brady can't help flirting with Ev when Ev indicates a similar interest. But Ev is also there only temporarily, ready to move back to his regular life once his aunt is better. Stealing a few moments together here and there seems to be all they can manage - but will they take a leap of faith and try for more?
I loved this story. It's rather bittersweet, with Brady's responsibility as essentially a single parent, and Ev's role as caregiver for his dying aunt (and to be clear, if you are sensitive to the big C in your stories, you should be aware of this subplot) making their romantic forays that much more meaningful. The first stumbling block to them getting together is actually not the lack of time but rather Ev's personal conviction to not get involved with a bisexual, much to Brady's disappointment. That Ev would think that because Brady is bisexual he would not be committed to a relationship with a gay man is hurtful and at first damaging to the tentative steps they've made towards a relationship. Ev's had bad experiences in the past with bisexual lovers, and his fear of getting involved with Brady comes from that background. But he is unable to resist taking the friendship he and Brady are developing further, first with flirtation, and then more when it becomes clear that Brady is willing. The two of them are very compatible sexually, with Ev liking to take a dominant hand in things, and Brady quite happy to let his submissive side out to play, a break from his constant need to be in control at home all the time. Ev has some interesting quirks in the bedroom that amuse Brady, but for the reader, it makes their relationship feel believable. They are definitely hot together once they let down their guards, and the result is some steamy scenes.
Trust is the biggest factor in holding Ev back from opening himself up fully to Brady, and combined with Brady's belief that his siblings would be a drawback to any man wanting a relationship with him, make for a lot of hardships for this couple to overcome. They are both really likable characters, and I loved seeing Ev open himself up to Brady, and in turn show Brady that it's okay to have someone else to lean on. In the end we get a story about two men who take each other's flaws hand in hand with their positive qualities and a reminder that romance can flourish in any situation. 5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at: http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
I loved this story. It's rather bittersweet, with Brady's responsibility as essentially a single parent, and Ev's role as caregiver for his dying aunt (and to be clear, if you are sensitive to the big C in your stories, you should be aware of this subplot) making their romantic forays that much more meaningful. The first stumbling block to them getting together is actually not the lack of time but rather Ev's personal conviction to not get involved with a bisexual, much to Brady's disappointment. That Ev would think that because Brady is bisexual he would not be committed to a relationship with a gay man is hurtful and at first damaging to the tentative steps they've made towards a relationship. Ev's had bad experiences in the past with bisexual lovers, and his fear of getting involved with Brady comes from that background. But he is unable to resist taking the friendship he and Brady are developing further, first with flirtation, and then more when it becomes clear that Brady is willing. The two of them are very compatible sexually, with Ev liking to take a dominant hand in things, and Brady quite happy to let his submissive side out to play, a break from his constant need to be in control at home all the time. Ev has some interesting quirks in the bedroom that amuse Brady, but for the reader, it makes their relationship feel believable. They are definitely hot together once they let down their guards, and the result is some steamy scenes.
Trust is the biggest factor in holding Ev back from opening himself up fully to Brady, and combined with Brady's belief that his siblings would be a drawback to any man wanting a relationship with him, make for a lot of hardships for this couple to overcome. They are both really likable characters, and I loved seeing Ev open himself up to Brady, and in turn show Brady that it's okay to have someone else to lean on. In the end we get a story about two men who take each other's flaws hand in hand with their positive qualities and a reminder that romance can flourish in any situation. 5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at: http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
March 2, 2016
3.5 mixed feeling Stars
This was a sweet book full of real life situations and two guys who find a way to be together. Brady is a barista and one day he looks up to see the best looking man he has ever laid eyes on, Evren. Evren is new to town and we find out he has recently moved home to help his aunt run the yarn shop. Well this brings Brady and Evren together frequently as the yarn shop has a regular knit night at Brady's cafe....and from there we watch these two stitch their lives together.
So, this story has some areas that I loved and some areas I hated. First, we have two MC who are so busy with their lives and obligations they barely have time to have a relationship, this leads to a lot of telephone conversations during the "get to know you" part of the relationship. This is okay to a point, but it honestly got a little tiresome watching these two do the "I don't have time for you dance". Second, Brady is Bisexual. Evren is gay. Evren loses interest in Brady at first when he finds out he is bisexual. Honestly I was a little put off by Evren's behavior and immediate judgement of Brady based on his sexual preferences. Third, Brady has custody of his three younger siblings and his eighteen year old sister is suppose to be helping out with the kids. I really got sick of her attitude. I get that she is eighteen, but come on - she threw fits worse than a 12 year old, slamming doors and screaming. So yeah, she was a part of the book that I honestly could have done without, all she did was annoy me. Evren's aunt...loved her!
So there ya have it, my feelings about this story. It is a good story, but it's one of those stories that left me feeling "meh" it lacked a lot of steam, which could be why******SPOILER*****.. I have mixed feelings for this book. 3.5 Stars
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
This was a sweet book full of real life situations and two guys who find a way to be together. Brady is a barista and one day he looks up to see the best looking man he has ever laid eyes on, Evren. Evren is new to town and we find out he has recently moved home to help his aunt run the yarn shop. Well this brings Brady and Evren together frequently as the yarn shop has a regular knit night at Brady's cafe....and from there we watch these two stitch their lives together.
So, this story has some areas that I loved and some areas I hated. First, we have two MC who are so busy with their lives and obligations they barely have time to have a relationship, this leads to a lot of telephone conversations during the "get to know you" part of the relationship. This is okay to a point, but it honestly got a little tiresome watching these two do the "I don't have time for you dance". Second, Brady is Bisexual. Evren is gay. Evren loses interest in Brady at first when he finds out he is bisexual. Honestly I was a little put off by Evren's behavior and immediate judgement of Brady based on his sexual preferences. Third, Brady has custody of his three younger siblings and his eighteen year old sister is suppose to be helping out with the kids. I really got sick of her attitude. I get that she is eighteen, but come on - she threw fits worse than a 12 year old, slamming doors and screaming. So yeah, she was a part of the book that I honestly could have done without, all she did was annoy me. Evren's aunt...loved her!
So there ya have it, my feelings about this story. It is a good story, but it's one of those stories that left me feeling "meh" it lacked a lot of steam, which could be why******SPOILER*****.. I have mixed feelings for this book. 3.5 Stars
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
March 15, 2016
I'm reading these books out of order, because I had my eyes on them for some time and then I saw this on Netgalley and I decided to grab it. But you can read them like this, because as much as I know they are companions and in each one is a different couple.
This book was like a hot chocolate - not too long or too short, just enough, sweet but not too sugary, hot but not erotica or too graphic and the characters, plot and emotions were in the right amount. I like that none of the characters are perfect or are described as being, or that their bodies are perfect, and that each of them still had a life after they got together. Because sometimes after they get together it's like they can't live or do things separately.
Brady and Ev are very nice people and I was glad to meet them and hear their stories. The only character that bothered me a little and seemed so whiny and a cry baby was Renee. She got away with too many things, I think, just by crying and yelling at Brady because he didn't let her have a life. Well, he stays a lot with the kids and sacrifices a lot of his life and time, so why don't you shut the fuck up and do the same? You can't expect from him to do everything and watch the kinds non-stop just because he's a bit older than you.
The relationship between the two is very nicely written and it didn't seem rushed, even though at some points I felt like it was a bit too sexual. I mean, I understand that they attracted to each other and they are honest about that, but could you just watch a movie or talk and not kiss, touch or fuck? I enjoy these cozy and nice moments, because they're normal and people not just fuck around. I'm not saying that there's a lot of sex in this book or it's all over the place, but there were some moments when I felt that Brady was thinking just about sex or just about Ev in a sexual way or in a way that made him feel good.
I think that this novel would be a pleeasure to read if you like M/M romance, which is not too much fonded on BDSM, dirty talk, graphic sex etc, but more on emotions, friendship, family, feelings and forming a relationship on trust and love before fucking each other's brains out. If you get what I mean. It's hot but still cute and light. And very short and easy to read.
This book was like a hot chocolate - not too long or too short, just enough, sweet but not too sugary, hot but not erotica or too graphic and the characters, plot and emotions were in the right amount. I like that none of the characters are perfect or are described as being, or that their bodies are perfect, and that each of them still had a life after they got together. Because sometimes after they get together it's like they can't live or do things separately.
Brady and Ev are very nice people and I was glad to meet them and hear their stories. The only character that bothered me a little and seemed so whiny and a cry baby was Renee. She got away with too many things, I think, just by crying and yelling at Brady because he didn't let her have a life. Well, he stays a lot with the kids and sacrifices a lot of his life and time, so why don't you shut the fuck up and do the same? You can't expect from him to do everything and watch the kinds non-stop just because he's a bit older than you.
The relationship between the two is very nicely written and it didn't seem rushed, even though at some points I felt like it was a bit too sexual. I mean, I understand that they attracted to each other and they are honest about that, but could you just watch a movie or talk and not kiss, touch or fuck? I enjoy these cozy and nice moments, because they're normal and people not just fuck around. I'm not saying that there's a lot of sex in this book or it's all over the place, but there were some moments when I felt that Brady was thinking just about sex or just about Ev in a sexual way or in a way that made him feel good.
I think that this novel would be a pleeasure to read if you like M/M romance, which is not too much fonded on BDSM, dirty talk, graphic sex etc, but more on emotions, friendship, family, feelings and forming a relationship on trust and love before fucking each other's brains out. If you get what I mean. It's hot but still cute and light. And very short and easy to read.
October 15, 2016
Knit Tight is one of those stories that I really did enjoy reading, but still am slightly on the fence about. It has a good, solid plot and interesting characters, and the writing is excellent, something I’ve come to expect from this author. For me, I just did not feel like the connection between Brady and Evren was as intense or strong as I like to see in a romance story, and this is mostly due to my own preferences in the M/M romance genre.
Brady is an amazing guy-taking on so much responsibility at an early age and having such a sweet personality make him instantly likable and a someone I wanted to root for right from the start. Evren seems very hot/cold with his attitude, most of the time coming across as lukewarm. He’s been burned before and doesn’t want to make that same mistake again, and as a result initially lumps Brady into the same category as those who have hurt him in the past.
While the two of them don’t get a lot of time together due to their respective responsibilities, that does make their relationship a slow-burn which I always appreciate compared to the insta-love option. Thanks to Evren’s personal preferences when it comes to intimacy, things between them do not get quite as involved, but that doesn’t mean those scenes are not hot and steamy-quite the contrary actually. But even so, I still didn’t feel the intensity of feelings between them that I would have expected.
Brady and Ev’s connection is a different kind of relationship than I’ve come to expect and prefer in an M/M romance, but while I would have liked something more powerful, the story was still very good and does fit well with the Portland Heat series. It all just boils down to personal preference.
4 stars for Knit Tight, and I do recommend this story to M/M romance fans (still 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content).
Brady is an amazing guy-taking on so much responsibility at an early age and having such a sweet personality make him instantly likable and a someone I wanted to root for right from the start. Evren seems very hot/cold with his attitude, most of the time coming across as lukewarm. He’s been burned before and doesn’t want to make that same mistake again, and as a result initially lumps Brady into the same category as those who have hurt him in the past.
While the two of them don’t get a lot of time together due to their respective responsibilities, that does make their relationship a slow-burn which I always appreciate compared to the insta-love option. Thanks to Evren’s personal preferences when it comes to intimacy, things between them do not get quite as involved, but that doesn’t mean those scenes are not hot and steamy-quite the contrary actually. But even so, I still didn’t feel the intensity of feelings between them that I would have expected.
Brady and Ev’s connection is a different kind of relationship than I’ve come to expect and prefer in an M/M romance, but while I would have liked something more powerful, the story was still very good and does fit well with the Portland Heat series. It all just boils down to personal preference.
4 stars for Knit Tight, and I do recommend this story to M/M romance fans (still 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content).
July 17, 2016
The premise was good. Overall it was interesting but the author used "phone sex filler" instead of character growth and I started skimming pages looking for story. Finally, they started getting together regularly with everyone. I never got the true feeling that he was having issues with money or the kids. They were almost secondary because the author needed some angst. Supposedly the one boy had ADHD... why?? Again, not used in the plot, just a comment. What happened at the end was "OK, we all knew that was coming... wait, it's over??"
It just needed less filler, and even if it got cut down to a few good sex scenes and "more" and it would have been a really good story. Instead of watching it, you would have been part of it.
2.5 stars.
It just needed less filler, and even if it got cut down to a few good sex scenes and "more" and it would have been a really good story. Instead of watching it, you would have been part of it.
2.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 21, 2018Many lovely moments, but it didn’t come together for me. To start, I had a hard time recovering from the slap of biphobia from one of the main characters. I thought the recipient of said biphobia let his love interest off a little too easily over that. This may not bother other readers as much if they aren’t bi themselves, I guess.
February 19, 2017
Probably my favourite of the series so far <3
May 1, 2019
I have enjoyed this series, but this one wasn’t my favorite. Brady is a barista who has been raising his younger siblings since the death of his parents. He works hard and has sacrificed a lot for his family. Brady is doing everything he can to keep his family together. One of his favorite nights is Knit Night at the coffee shop, hosted by the yarn street on Alberta Street. Through knit night Brady has become close with the Mira, owner of the yarn store. And now Evren, Mira’s nephew has joined the group. Brady is instantly attracted to Evren, but he knows he has too much on his plate. He should be focused on the upcoming barista competition that could help his family financially.
Evern has come to town to help his aunt Mira, who has been diagnosed with cancer. Evern is very reserved. Evern is not looking for a relationship. His focus should on his aunt and her care. Evern keeps denying his feelings and refusing to consider a relationship. Eventually, Evern and Brady do connect and develop their relationship.
I don’t feel like we really get to know Evern. The emotional connection just wasn’t there for me. The connection between Evern and Brady was also very slow to develop and then rushed at the end. Overall, the book was okay. I will read more of the series. Each of these books can be read as a standalone.
Evern has come to town to help his aunt Mira, who has been diagnosed with cancer. Evern is very reserved. Evern is not looking for a relationship. His focus should on his aunt and her care. Evern keeps denying his feelings and refusing to consider a relationship. Eventually, Evern and Brady do connect and develop their relationship.
I don’t feel like we really get to know Evern. The emotional connection just wasn’t there for me. The connection between Evern and Brady was also very slow to develop and then rushed at the end. Overall, the book was okay. I will read more of the series. Each of these books can be read as a standalone.
December 1, 2017
3.45 stars
September 9, 2019
Cuando una historia corta hace magia como si fuera un libro con muchas paginas. Este libro es ideal para leer en una tarde fria con un chocolatito caliente y solo suspirar con estos personajes😍😍😍.
March 12, 2017
Today was a good day in my reading life, I finished two books which were exo-bloody-llent.
This was the surprise one. It's a novella and usually this means there is a massive compromise in depth for the sake of sex (and I'm TOTALLY on board with that!). However, in this case, the main characters had a full back story, they had a full current story, there was emotion (I cried) and there was even a lot of slow burn but still some very good sex scenes - don't ask me how the author fit it all in!!?
Highly recommended.
This was the surprise one. It's a novella and usually this means there is a massive compromise in depth for the sake of sex (and I'm TOTALLY on board with that!). However, in this case, the main characters had a full back story, they had a full current story, there was emotion (I cried) and there was even a lot of slow burn but still some very good sex scenes - don't ask me how the author fit it all in!!?
Highly recommended.
March 27, 2016
Sigh...I don't know what happened here. I know I supposedly read about the romance between Evren and Brady, but this didn't feel like romance at all! Knit Tight felt more like a story about family, caring and being there for each other until the end. And that's a great kind of book, just not what I thought this was supposed to be about, and most importantly not what I've come to expect from Mrs. Albert.
Brady is a famous and talented barista who works long hours and has time only for his family. After the death of his mother and step-father, Brady has been raising his 4 siblings and has given and will continue to give them 100% of his time and attention. Brady is one of the good guys, sweet and lovable, with a huge heart and a strength that keeps him going no matter how hard life is at the moment.
The coffee shop Brady works at hosts a weekly Knit Night, where all the passionate knitters from young to old get together and show off their designs. Evren has been abandoned by his turkish family after being found out as gay and was sent to live with his aunt, a lovely woman and talented knitter who's the best and most important person in Evren's life. Evren now returns to Portland to care for his aunt and help her during her battle with pancreatic cancer.
Evren and Brady have some chemistry from the start, but Evren's distrust and dismissal of Brady's bisexuality and Brady's unavailability for anything more than a quick fling keep them from acting on any attraction between them. Evren and Brady become friends, learn that it's ok to ask for and accept help when they need it, and eventually become friends with benefits. The relationship between them wasn't really defined in a specific way, which was ok, but then all of a sudden I was expected to believe it was serious and strong without backing it up with any emotional interactions. No matter how much I try to see or feel the romantic and emotional connection between them, it's not happening!
Brady was adorable, likable and easy to connect with; Evren on the other hand started off as a mystery and continued to be a mystery until the end. I don't feel like I got to know anything about him, anything meaningful at all!! We know that he has some issues with bisexual people although we don't get a convincing explanation as to why that is. Evren also has some sexual quirks like dislike of anal sex, both give and take, a problem with messes be they cum or lube (that miserable bastard has to plan sex to the last detail, because if he doesn't have a towel handy to immediately wipe off, he's not having it!) and absolutely NONE of that is explained to us! So while we know all those things about Evren, we don't really KNOW Evren.
There are many sweet moments, some even downright adorable, but when it comes to the romantic side? There were no warm and fuzzies, no crazy sexual chemistry, and my socks were definitely not knocked off. Good book, but not good enough.
Brady is a famous and talented barista who works long hours and has time only for his family. After the death of his mother and step-father, Brady has been raising his 4 siblings and has given and will continue to give them 100% of his time and attention. Brady is one of the good guys, sweet and lovable, with a huge heart and a strength that keeps him going no matter how hard life is at the moment.
The coffee shop Brady works at hosts a weekly Knit Night, where all the passionate knitters from young to old get together and show off their designs. Evren has been abandoned by his turkish family after being found out as gay and was sent to live with his aunt, a lovely woman and talented knitter who's the best and most important person in Evren's life. Evren now returns to Portland to care for his aunt and help her during her battle with pancreatic cancer.
Evren and Brady have some chemistry from the start, but Evren's distrust and dismissal of Brady's bisexuality and Brady's unavailability for anything more than a quick fling keep them from acting on any attraction between them. Evren and Brady become friends, learn that it's ok to ask for and accept help when they need it, and eventually become friends with benefits. The relationship between them wasn't really defined in a specific way, which was ok, but then all of a sudden I was expected to believe it was serious and strong without backing it up with any emotional interactions. No matter how much I try to see or feel the romantic and emotional connection between them, it's not happening!
Brady was adorable, likable and easy to connect with; Evren on the other hand started off as a mystery and continued to be a mystery until the end. I don't feel like I got to know anything about him, anything meaningful at all!! We know that he has some issues with bisexual people although we don't get a convincing explanation as to why that is. Evren also has some sexual quirks like dislike of anal sex, both give and take, a problem with messes be they cum or lube (that miserable bastard has to plan sex to the last detail, because if he doesn't have a towel handy to immediately wipe off, he's not having it!) and absolutely NONE of that is explained to us! So while we know all those things about Evren, we don't really KNOW Evren.
There are many sweet moments, some even downright adorable, but when it comes to the romantic side? There were no warm and fuzzies, no crazy sexual chemistry, and my socks were definitely not knocked off. Good book, but not good enough.
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