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Mercury Rising #2
Cherry Bomb
Their spark could be too hot to handle…or bring a dying town back to life.
Mercury Rising, Book 2
Officially, Turnstiles CEO Brian Curland is in Mercury to set up a new data center. Unofficially, he’s using this trip to re-evaluate his life, because for a man who has everything, he’s feeling pretty empty.
He could buy any car he wants. But no, he had to rent a piece-of-crap Chevy—which is now broken down on the side of the road. When he’s rescued by a sexy local, Brian does what he always does. Go for what he wants, even if it’s just temporary.
Evan Michaels stops to help because that’s what good guys do. He grew up in Mercury, eventually becoming minister of the local Unitarian church. Though everyone knows him, being gay and being in a gay relationship are two different things. He wants Brian, but their affair has to be secret or he can’t play.
When Evan unleashes his long-suppressed sexuality, Brian is more than up to handling the heat. Yet even though they fall hard for each other, it might take the whole town to convince them it’s a forever kind of love.
Contains an inexperienced minister, gay comic-book role play, dirty dancing in antebellum mansions, and some very naughty fireworks. Protective gear recommended.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2016
12 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Kane
54 books769 followersSamantha Kane lives in North Carolina with her husband and three children, two boys and one girl. With a master’s degree in American history, she spent seven years as a high school history teacher before becoming a full-time writer and mom.
Series:
THE BIRMINGHAM REBELS
BROTHERS IN ARMS
THE SAINT'S DEVILS
THE 93RD HIGHLANDERS
MERCURY RISING
Series:
THE BIRMINGHAM REBELS
BROTHERS IN ARMS
THE SAINT'S DEVILS
THE 93RD HIGHLANDERS
MERCURY RISING
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 27, 2016
~3.5~
I liked Cherry Bomb more than I liked the first book in the series, Cherry Pie. In Cherry Pie, John and Conn struggle with some heavy baggage, and a sense of melancholy permeates the story.
Evan and Brian aren't like that. They are both relatively well-adjusted, happy adults. Evan is a minister who truly loves tending to his congregation and bringing people comfort. And Brian, the inventor of a very popular search engine (think Google), is a geek cum billionaire who can have any man he wants.
Brian comes to Mercury to oversee the beginning stages of the data center he's building in town and to visit his friend John. When his shitty rental car overheats in the middle of nowhere, Evan comes to the rescue.
Commence hot and heavy flirting. And plenty of smexy times.
The crux of the conflict is that neither man is willing to compromise: Evan doesn't want to leave the town he loves, and Brian doesn't want to leave L.A.
This shouldn't be complicated (hello, private jets), but the men make it so.
I liked the tenderness between the MCs, the long conversations, the hot sexual exploration.
I was happy to revisit with John and Conn, who sort of get their epilogue in this story (we see them together and happy a few months after the first book has ended).
The secondary characters (especially Evan's Nana) are fun, if not particularly complex, and small town politics and (never malicious) gossip add a lightness to the story.
Evan and Brian have only a week together, so this is very much an Insta Love kind of story. I wouldn't mind, except the ending here (as in the first book) is very abrupt and left me hanging. The conflict is resolved in the last few pages, so there is just a hint of a HEA before the curtain falls.
I was really frustrated not to be get at least a sense of how Evan and Brian are settling into their new life together. It seems we'll have to wait for the next book (100 bucks says Trey, Brian's movie star friend, will be the next MC) to see their HEA through the eyes of other characters.
I liked Cherry Bomb more than I liked the first book in the series, Cherry Pie. In Cherry Pie, John and Conn struggle with some heavy baggage, and a sense of melancholy permeates the story.
Evan and Brian aren't like that. They are both relatively well-adjusted, happy adults. Evan is a minister who truly loves tending to his congregation and bringing people comfort. And Brian, the inventor of a very popular search engine (think Google), is a geek cum billionaire who can have any man he wants.
Brian comes to Mercury to oversee the beginning stages of the data center he's building in town and to visit his friend John. When his shitty rental car overheats in the middle of nowhere, Evan comes to the rescue.
Commence hot and heavy flirting. And plenty of smexy times.
The crux of the conflict is that neither man is willing to compromise: Evan doesn't want to leave the town he loves, and Brian doesn't want to leave L.A.
This shouldn't be complicated (hello, private jets), but the men make it so.
I liked the tenderness between the MCs, the long conversations, the hot sexual exploration.
I was happy to revisit with John and Conn, who sort of get their epilogue in this story (we see them together and happy a few months after the first book has ended).
The secondary characters (especially Evan's Nana) are fun, if not particularly complex, and small town politics and (never malicious) gossip add a lightness to the story.
Evan and Brian have only a week together, so this is very much an Insta Love kind of story. I wouldn't mind, except the ending here (as in the first book) is very abrupt and left me hanging. The conflict is resolved in the last few pages, so there is just a hint of a HEA before the curtain falls.
I was really frustrated not to be get at least a sense of how Evan and Brian are settling into their new life together. It seems we'll have to wait for the next book (100 bucks says Trey, Brian's movie star friend, will be the next MC) to see their HEA through the eyes of other characters.
January 13, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! I want to write a more in depth review and will try to do so. For now, though, suffice it to say I loved it and am looking forward to the next book. :)
December 26, 2016
I was really looking forward to this book, but I just couldn't get into it. I tried, because I wanted to like it, I did, but there was something about Brian that rubbed me the wrong way.
What I loved about Cherry Pie was the earthiness of the story, the feels that left you raw, and emotionally connected to the characters.
Cherry Bomb not so much.
My break point was when, in less than 24 hours after meeting, the two main characters jump into bed together. It felt forced to me, this nice small town minister jumping into bed with a playboy billionaire for meaningless smexy times.
Maybe I was more bitchy cause I was coming down with the flu. Maybe it was I was thinking contemporary and got new adult. Who knows, maybe I will try to read it again when the summer sun is back, and my vitamin d levels are topped off.
Thank you Netgalley for letting me read this book in trade for an honest review.
What I loved about Cherry Pie was the earthiness of the story, the feels that left you raw, and emotionally connected to the characters.
Cherry Bomb not so much.
My break point was when, in less than 24 hours after meeting, the two main characters jump into bed together. It felt forced to me, this nice small town minister jumping into bed with a playboy billionaire for meaningless smexy times.
Maybe I was more bitchy cause I was coming down with the flu. Maybe it was I was thinking contemporary and got new adult. Who knows, maybe I will try to read it again when the summer sun is back, and my vitamin d levels are topped off.
Thank you Netgalley for letting me read this book in trade for an honest review.
January 5, 2016
I loved this book. I enjoyed every single page of Cherry Bomb. Evan and Brian were a total enjoyment to read. They are fascinating all on their own. Put them together and their instant chemistry brings out the fun flirty side of these men. Brian’s successful life has kept him from having more than flings. Evan’s choices in life have left him at a loss on where to even find a fling much less a long term relationship. Both men go into their sexcapade knowing that they are not meant for more than some sweaty sexy fun before they have to go their separate ways.
Did I mention how much fun Brian and Evan were to read? Evan enjoys his life. He loves his job. He knows he wants someone to share his life with but he is also content with what he has. Brian on the other hand has grown restless with what he has. He wants more but he doesn’t realize that until he gets to Mercury to discover that what he thought he wanted is not what he wants at all. Until Mercury Brian never even realized what he was missing in life. I love the fact that it is Mercury itself that makes these men open their eyes to see that what they’ve found is something that is worth doing anything and everything for.
Mercury, North Carolina and all of its residents make for an amazing setting to Samantha Kane’s Mercury Rising series. In the first book we were introduced to some of the town and its most important residents. Kane brings back many of those favorites while introducing some new old wizened soles into the mix. Fans will be pleased to know that John and Connor have significant roles here as secondary characters. With that said I can honestly say that the second installment in this series will easy work as a stand-alone for those who have not read Cherry Pie.
Did I mention how much fun Brian and Evan were to read? Evan enjoys his life. He loves his job. He knows he wants someone to share his life with but he is also content with what he has. Brian on the other hand has grown restless with what he has. He wants more but he doesn’t realize that until he gets to Mercury to discover that what he thought he wanted is not what he wants at all. Until Mercury Brian never even realized what he was missing in life. I love the fact that it is Mercury itself that makes these men open their eyes to see that what they’ve found is something that is worth doing anything and everything for.
Mercury, North Carolina and all of its residents make for an amazing setting to Samantha Kane’s Mercury Rising series. In the first book we were introduced to some of the town and its most important residents. Kane brings back many of those favorites while introducing some new old wizened soles into the mix. Fans will be pleased to know that John and Connor have significant roles here as secondary characters. With that said I can honestly say that the second installment in this series will easy work as a stand-alone for those who have not read Cherry Pie.
January 27, 2016
**2.5 stars**
Obviously, I'm the voice of dissent, but God, I struggled so much with this book, despite the good writing. If aything, it was a weird experience; every time the story managed to grab me, something would happen to put me off.
So, Evan, the small town minister, and Brian, the billionaire, decide to have some fun, no strings attached. But then, feelings get in the way, in a matter of days.
Honestly, I was confused as to why these two couldn't be together.
The main reason was supposed to be that Evan couldn't leave Mercury and Brian had to stay in L.A. But they also got in a fight for a whole different reason.
And then:
Also, the secondary characters, John and Connor, were always there. I was fed up with their snide comments, Connor's outright hostility towards Brian, and the tension their presence always created. Add Trey, the ex-boyfriend, to the mix, who came to bring more drama, and there you have it.
And I guess I never managed to get over the fact that
The ending was rushed, and the characters were manipulated into it by their friends. No bueno.
But, like I said, I'm really the minority. Other readers had a totally different experience than I did. I'm sad to say I won't continue with the series:(
Obviously, I'm the voice of dissent, but God, I struggled so much with this book, despite the good writing. If aything, it was a weird experience; every time the story managed to grab me, something would happen to put me off.
So, Evan, the small town minister, and Brian, the billionaire, decide to have some fun, no strings attached. But then, feelings get in the way, in a matter of days.
Honestly, I was confused as to why these two couldn't be together.
The main reason was supposed to be that Evan couldn't leave Mercury and Brian had to stay in L.A. But they also got in a fight for a whole different reason.
And then:
“Oh, I know it,” Brian said. “He’s better than I deserve, that’s for damn sure. It’s why I left.”
“He doesn’t believe that,” Trey said.
“And that’s why I came back,” Brian said with a smile.
Also, the secondary characters, John and Connor, were always there. I was fed up with their snide comments, Connor's outright hostility towards Brian, and the tension their presence always created. Add Trey, the ex-boyfriend, to the mix, who came to bring more drama, and there you have it.
And I guess I never managed to get over the fact that
The ending was rushed, and the characters were manipulated into it by their friends. No bueno.
But, like I said, I'm really the minority. Other readers had a totally different experience than I did. I'm sad to say I won't continue with the series:(
January 8, 2016
I don't care if it's M/M, M/F, M/F/M or any combination thereof, Samantha Kane writes romance like nobody's business! Cherry Bomb is the second book in Ms. Kane's Mercury Rising series but can be read as a stand alone. I recommend you read the first in the series, Cherry Pie, as it is equally amazing!
Brian Curland, billionaire CEO, is in the town of Mercury to set up the new data center for his company. He's at a point in his life where, in spite of the money and glamour, he feels like his life is missing something. Evan Michaels is Mercury's local minister and the guy everyone relies on. He's content with his life and has never pursued a relationship because of the demands of his job.
When Brian's car breaks down just outside of town, Evan stops to lend a hand. The fireworks between them occur instantly! They realize, because of circumstances, this relationship will be temporary, but neither one realized how deep their feelings could be. This is a beautiful love story. The two main characters are strong, smart, likeable men. Their flirtiness and chemistry is off the charts. I loved the town of Mercury and it's residents. Especially how they helped open Evan's and Brian's eyes to what they were missing in life and the possibilities if they'd only take a chance and say yes. I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have read almost everything Samantha Kane has written and I promise you that you will never be disappointed with one of her books. I think Cherry Bomb may very well be my favorite of her contemporary romances.
Brian Curland, billionaire CEO, is in the town of Mercury to set up the new data center for his company. He's at a point in his life where, in spite of the money and glamour, he feels like his life is missing something. Evan Michaels is Mercury's local minister and the guy everyone relies on. He's content with his life and has never pursued a relationship because of the demands of his job.
When Brian's car breaks down just outside of town, Evan stops to lend a hand. The fireworks between them occur instantly! They realize, because of circumstances, this relationship will be temporary, but neither one realized how deep their feelings could be. This is a beautiful love story. The two main characters are strong, smart, likeable men. Their flirtiness and chemistry is off the charts. I loved the town of Mercury and it's residents. Especially how they helped open Evan's and Brian's eyes to what they were missing in life and the possibilities if they'd only take a chance and say yes. I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I have read almost everything Samantha Kane has written and I promise you that you will never be disappointed with one of her books. I think Cherry Bomb may very well be my favorite of her contemporary romances.
February 10, 2016
Normally I do not like male on male erotica because its just not something I can get into but this book does not give you a choice. It pulls you in so deep to the point that you stay up until 430 am when you have to wake up at 630 the next day.
Evan and Brian goes against numerous stereotypes of real and fictional life. Brian is openly gay but yet he understands why some people wouldn't want their relationship to be out in the open. He's a dominant and yet he is willing to be topped to bring to life a fantasy. And he is a ceo and yet he changes priorties when faced with a new deal.
Evan is a pastor who although everyone in his flock knows that he is gay he won't have a relationship and so he put his life and his social life on hold for years. When Evan meets Brian the attraction is immediate but that doesn't mean the relationship is going to go as smoothly.There is a lot of bumps in the road and yet Evan managed to stay true to his calling.
These two were amazing, yes the sex scene in this book were scorching but there was also a really great plot that I happened to find better then the sex.
All in all it was a really well written book with an amazing plot line that draws you in and doesn't release until the very last word.
This is a erotic romamce so its not recommended for those who do not approve of sex in books.
Evan and Brian goes against numerous stereotypes of real and fictional life. Brian is openly gay but yet he understands why some people wouldn't want their relationship to be out in the open. He's a dominant and yet he is willing to be topped to bring to life a fantasy. And he is a ceo and yet he changes priorties when faced with a new deal.
Evan is a pastor who although everyone in his flock knows that he is gay he won't have a relationship and so he put his life and his social life on hold for years. When Evan meets Brian the attraction is immediate but that doesn't mean the relationship is going to go as smoothly.There is a lot of bumps in the road and yet Evan managed to stay true to his calling.
These two were amazing, yes the sex scene in this book were scorching but there was also a really great plot that I happened to find better then the sex.
All in all it was a really well written book with an amazing plot line that draws you in and doesn't release until the very last word.
This is a erotic romamce so its not recommended for those who do not approve of sex in books.
January 12, 2016
Oh wow... I have never read something like this as I have to tell you that I am so impressed with Samantha Kane and her amazing mind as well as her amazing ability to tell a story.
January 8, 2016
HOLY FREAKIN' WOW! I loved this book. Review to come www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews.com
January 6, 2016
This book was so good!
Brian and Ethan meet on the side of the road where Brian's rental car has broken down and let's just say after that it was on between these two men.
I Loved the way this author wrote this story and these characters! There were sweet moments in this book when these two men finally admit their feelings for each other which I was honestly rooting for them through this whole book because they just fit so well together. Then there was the steam which was off the charts hot in this book. You also meet different characters in this book too!
So I will leave this review with... I thought this book was beautiful but also so very steamy! I 100% loved this story and would definitely recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
Brian and Ethan meet on the side of the road where Brian's rental car has broken down and let's just say after that it was on between these two men.
I Loved the way this author wrote this story and these characters! There were sweet moments in this book when these two men finally admit their feelings for each other which I was honestly rooting for them through this whole book because they just fit so well together. Then there was the steam which was off the charts hot in this book. You also meet different characters in this book too!
So I will leave this review with... I thought this book was beautiful but also so very steamy! I 100% loved this story and would definitely recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
January 9, 2016
3.5*
This was a really good M/M romance between to totally different men who didn't see what was about to hit them. Insta-lust and some of the hottest sexy times I've read in awhile. The dance scene...WOW!!! This is the second book in the series and I'm looking forward to going back and reading about how John and Connor got together. I hope Trey's book is the next book in the series.
This was a really good M/M romance between to totally different men who didn't see what was about to hit them. Insta-lust and some of the hottest sexy times I've read in awhile. The dance scene...WOW!!! This is the second book in the series and I'm looking forward to going back and reading about how John and Connor got together. I hope Trey's book is the next book in the series.
January 12, 2016
Samantha Kane has just sucked me into her M/M world, again....
The characters in this story jump off the pages and into your heart. A flashy billionaire and a minister. ABSOLUTELY PERFECT!
This is a sexy, soulful love story that will leave you with faith in happily-ever-after!
A must read.
The characters in this story jump off the pages and into your heart. A flashy billionaire and a minister. ABSOLUTELY PERFECT!
This is a sexy, soulful love story that will leave you with faith in happily-ever-after!
A must read.
January 12, 2016
My Review:
I forgot just how much I loved the first book in this series. But within just a few pages of starting this one I remembered and this one is just as good.
This book is about a very unlikely duo. Evan is the Unitarian minister in Mercury. He's openly gay, but doesn't ever date or even hook up. While his being gay isn't a secret, it's not a good idea for him to engage in random sex in this very small town. So he does without...and works out instead. Needless to say, Evan is in really excellent shape...LOL.
Then there's Brian. He's been on-again/off-again with Hollywood's A-list hunk, but it's just a friends with benefits arrangement for these two. But Brian is used to being in the spotlight. As a good-looking, single, billionaire, he's big news. He's in Mercury because he thinks he can bring his other friend, John (one of the heroes in CHERRY PIE), back to California and away from this guy he has some sort of crush on. Brian soon realizes that nothing is as easy as he envisioned when he set out to Mercury, NC.
I don't normally quote books, but there were a couple of quotes in this book that were brilliant. This is one at the beginning from Trey (the actor) when he's talking to Brian as he goes into Mercury...
"I told you something like this would happen. Hapless billionaires have no business suddenly dropping everything to fly off to some Godforsaken corner of North Carolina. That's how Stephen King novels start."
There were tons of great quips like that which left me laughing out loud...even in the middle of highly emotional scenes. The cast of characters were fabulous, including a lot of John and Connor, the couple from the first book that I loved so much.
There is so much to love about this book. Both these guys know that there's no way their relationship can work. They are from completely different worlds and there's no way those can ever mesh. But their chemistry is explosive (like a CHERRY BOMB) so they are willing to accept the time that they have. But just that makes this book heartbreaking. There were several passages where my eyes filled with tears because they both just accept that they can't have more...and that's just sad. Neither one has a very fulfilled life as is...they are both so lonely...it's palpable on the page.
Brian said it best..."Sometimes, even when we know it's bad for us, we have to do something stupid just to feel our heart beat faster and our palms sweat." (heart breaking...sob)
It was just so good. I highly recommend this book. It easily can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend both books in the series. Luckily, there's a third one coming. Please, I'm really, really hoping that it has Trey in it. He's so unhappy. I need him to have an HEA too.
Now I need to do a re-read of CHERRY PIE. I just wish it was available in paperback so I could have a copy of it on my keeper shelf alongside my paperback copy of CHERRY BOMB that I preordered after I read my ARC.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I forgot just how much I loved the first book in this series. But within just a few pages of starting this one I remembered and this one is just as good.
This book is about a very unlikely duo. Evan is the Unitarian minister in Mercury. He's openly gay, but doesn't ever date or even hook up. While his being gay isn't a secret, it's not a good idea for him to engage in random sex in this very small town. So he does without...and works out instead. Needless to say, Evan is in really excellent shape...LOL.
Then there's Brian. He's been on-again/off-again with Hollywood's A-list hunk, but it's just a friends with benefits arrangement for these two. But Brian is used to being in the spotlight. As a good-looking, single, billionaire, he's big news. He's in Mercury because he thinks he can bring his other friend, John (one of the heroes in CHERRY PIE), back to California and away from this guy he has some sort of crush on. Brian soon realizes that nothing is as easy as he envisioned when he set out to Mercury, NC.
I don't normally quote books, but there were a couple of quotes in this book that were brilliant. This is one at the beginning from Trey (the actor) when he's talking to Brian as he goes into Mercury...
"I told you something like this would happen. Hapless billionaires have no business suddenly dropping everything to fly off to some Godforsaken corner of North Carolina. That's how Stephen King novels start."
There were tons of great quips like that which left me laughing out loud...even in the middle of highly emotional scenes. The cast of characters were fabulous, including a lot of John and Connor, the couple from the first book that I loved so much.
There is so much to love about this book. Both these guys know that there's no way their relationship can work. They are from completely different worlds and there's no way those can ever mesh. But their chemistry is explosive (like a CHERRY BOMB) so they are willing to accept the time that they have. But just that makes this book heartbreaking. There were several passages where my eyes filled with tears because they both just accept that they can't have more...and that's just sad. Neither one has a very fulfilled life as is...they are both so lonely...it's palpable on the page.
Brian said it best..."Sometimes, even when we know it's bad for us, we have to do something stupid just to feel our heart beat faster and our palms sweat." (heart breaking...sob)
It was just so good. I highly recommend this book. It easily can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend both books in the series. Luckily, there's a third one coming. Please, I'm really, really hoping that it has Trey in it. He's so unhappy. I need him to have an HEA too.
Now I need to do a re-read of CHERRY PIE. I just wish it was available in paperback so I could have a copy of it on my keeper shelf alongside my paperback copy of CHERRY BOMB that I preordered after I read my ARC.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
January 10, 2016
Both this author and this series are new to me, but I was intrigued by the gay minister in the blurb – and I’m so glad I was, because this is an adorable read about a supremely good guy and a billionaire whose life is about to change beyond all recognition.
It would be easy to dislike Brian, because he’s self-absorbed, pretty selfish and very spoiled by his billionaire lifestyle. Not that he’s a brat, because he’s worked hard to get where he is and definitely deserves his success, he’s just forgotten what normal means. Until he meets Evan and has his head turned so thoroughly he doesn’t know where he is anymore. Despite all of this, I actually really liked Brian – mostly because of the way he treats Evan as a person, nor just a minister, and even though he sometimes struggles with what Evan is, he also likes the man too much to let anything else get in the way of helping Evan accept himself and have fun.
As for Evan – he’s lovely. Not just a minister but a man with a calling. Yet he isn’t all preachy and holier-than-thou, he’s just a good man looking after his community, because that’s who he is and what he does. He isn’t judgemental or arrogant, and I loved how he changed Brian simply by being himself. I also really loved how Brian changed him in return without really trying. They are an excellent match, allowing each other to only be themselves when they are together, leaving the world and all their responsibilities behind without guilt, judgement or expectation. Adorable.
Of course, being who they are, there are many obstacles between them. Not least the well-meaning meddling of certain friends, the expectations and pressures of a small town on the verge of dying, and their exceedingly different lifestyles. Yet because these two are both great communicators and leave very little left unsaid, this isn’t an angsty, high-drama kind of read. It’s measured and thoughtful and rolls along at its own pace. It also has moments of scorching chemistry too, but I loved it just as much for its sweetness and the simple love between two men that couldn’t be denied.
In all I really enjoyed this one, and will definitely be catching up with the first book – Cherry Pie – soon. Can’t wait to see how the rest of the series turns out.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
It would be easy to dislike Brian, because he’s self-absorbed, pretty selfish and very spoiled by his billionaire lifestyle. Not that he’s a brat, because he’s worked hard to get where he is and definitely deserves his success, he’s just forgotten what normal means. Until he meets Evan and has his head turned so thoroughly he doesn’t know where he is anymore. Despite all of this, I actually really liked Brian – mostly because of the way he treats Evan as a person, nor just a minister, and even though he sometimes struggles with what Evan is, he also likes the man too much to let anything else get in the way of helping Evan accept himself and have fun.
As for Evan – he’s lovely. Not just a minister but a man with a calling. Yet he isn’t all preachy and holier-than-thou, he’s just a good man looking after his community, because that’s who he is and what he does. He isn’t judgemental or arrogant, and I loved how he changed Brian simply by being himself. I also really loved how Brian changed him in return without really trying. They are an excellent match, allowing each other to only be themselves when they are together, leaving the world and all their responsibilities behind without guilt, judgement or expectation. Adorable.
Of course, being who they are, there are many obstacles between them. Not least the well-meaning meddling of certain friends, the expectations and pressures of a small town on the verge of dying, and their exceedingly different lifestyles. Yet because these two are both great communicators and leave very little left unsaid, this isn’t an angsty, high-drama kind of read. It’s measured and thoughtful and rolls along at its own pace. It also has moments of scorching chemistry too, but I loved it just as much for its sweetness and the simple love between two men that couldn’t be denied.
In all I really enjoyed this one, and will definitely be catching up with the first book – Cherry Pie – soon. Can’t wait to see how the rest of the series turns out.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
January 12, 2016
Sweet, sexy, and surprisingly deep and emotional. I loved this, loved Brian and Evan and loved the small town vibe. It was wonderful to be back in Mercury.
Full review to come on:
www.prettysassycool.com
Full review to come on:
www.prettysassycool.com
January 26, 2016
Brian is a mega-billionaire who goes to a small town in North Carolina to check on the new project for his business because one of his good friends lives in the rural town and because he’s feeling a bit at loose ends in life.
Along the road to the small town he breaks down and meets Evan, the town’s minister who helps him with his car. They have an INSTANT connection, but Evan is in the closet and Brian lives in LA so it can never work. Right?
**
I liked the self-discovery these guys had and appreciated their chemistry. I didn’t read book one, but for those who have the MCs from that book play a good-sized role in this book, as well.
What didn’t work for me were the so-called “obstacles” between these guys. First, Evan is known to be gay, his town totally thinks he’s amazing, nobody seems to give the other gay guys any trouble and he’s worried about having a boyfriend? If he just left it at being worried about splitting his time with ANYONE outside his job it’d been better because the guy is a total workaholic, but I didn’t buy that anyone would be anything but pleased to see him with someone he loves.
Two, Brian’s obstacle of living in LA … well, he’s a billionaire… there are things like jets and skype and … it didn’t resonate with me as a true hurdle.
So… I liked this very much, but it didn’t wow me nor did it really disappoint. It was good, well written, nice MCs, good chemistry… just maybe a bit unrealistic.
3.5 of 5 stars
Along the road to the small town he breaks down and meets Evan, the town’s minister who helps him with his car. They have an INSTANT connection, but Evan is in the closet and Brian lives in LA so it can never work. Right?
**
I liked the self-discovery these guys had and appreciated their chemistry. I didn’t read book one, but for those who have the MCs from that book play a good-sized role in this book, as well.
What didn’t work for me were the so-called “obstacles” between these guys. First, Evan is known to be gay, his town totally thinks he’s amazing, nobody seems to give the other gay guys any trouble and he’s worried about having a boyfriend? If he just left it at being worried about splitting his time with ANYONE outside his job it’d been better because the guy is a total workaholic, but I didn’t buy that anyone would be anything but pleased to see him with someone he loves.
Two, Brian’s obstacle of living in LA … well, he’s a billionaire… there are things like jets and skype and … it didn’t resonate with me as a true hurdle.
So… I liked this very much, but it didn’t wow me nor did it really disappoint. It was good, well written, nice MCs, good chemistry… just maybe a bit unrealistic.
3.5 of 5 stars
January 13, 2016
4.5 STARS
When I spied this book as an upcoming release on Samhain’s website, I pretty much leapt out of my chair in astonished excitement. This is a title that I’d randomly search for every now and again without actually expecting to get a result. So when this purrdy cover popped up, I didn’t hesitate to add it to my review list and claim it as my own.
I loved the first book in this series. It’s one of those books that I actually appreciate more each time that I read it. A Southern small-town setting, with a real focus on the characters rather than any huge melodrama, and although there is some homophobia it’s the exception rather than the rule in Mercury. I expected much the same from this second book, which is set in the same town and bumps one of the secondary characters from the first book into a main character role. It can be enjoyable to be surprised by the unexpected in a story, but sometimes, it’s definitely nice to get just what you were expecting. Which was the case with Cherry Bomb.
Billionaire Brian Curland has decided to head to the small town of Mercury so he can oversee the setting up of his new data center and attempt to convince his friend (MC from the first book), to return with him to LA. But before he even makes it to town he meets local minister, Evan Michaels and finds a new focus for his visit. The men form an immediate connection, and though they say over and over that it’s just sex and they know it can’t last…well, easier said than done.
I’m usually one of those judgey people who would roll their eyes at the word billionaire and move onto the next blurb. I prefer real characters that I can relate to, and that word tends to be a red flag to me. But it’s the second Mercury Rising book, so what was I to do? Thankfully, this author writes without resorting to tired, overused clichés. Yes, Brian is ridiculously loaded, but he remains a very relatable character. He’s pretty much a “normal” person. Evan, as the small town minister was a great character. He loved his calling and the author never tried to excuse that in anyway. I’m not a religious person myself, but it seems to me that religion is so often portrayed as a negative these days. Evan was full to overflowing with love and faith, and the fact that he was a gay minister was never used to create homophobic tension.
There were some brilliant scenes in this story, which were somehow both simple and memorable. When the two men started dancing in Evan’s home, I was practically cooing over their cuteness, but what I loved most was when Evan and Brian would assure each other, often lying wrapped together, that when the time came for them to part, any heartache would be worth what they were experiencing at the time. OMG, that turned me to absolute mush!! The book really is angst free. The conflict in the story comes from the fact that the men can’t see how they could possibly manage to have a real relationship…but since you know that everything is going to end up cherry pie sweet – no angst.
In the back of this book, we’re teased with a title and a “coming soon” for the third Mercury book. I really hope that Trey is going to get his HEA and I can’t wait to see more of our other Mercury guys popping back up for a relationship update.
It’s not necessary that you read Cherry Pie before Cherry Bomb, but you’ll probably wish that you’d done so. The characters from that first book are very much present and you’ll end up wanting to know their story too.
Reviewed for ove Bytes Reviews
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2016/01/1...
When I spied this book as an upcoming release on Samhain’s website, I pretty much leapt out of my chair in astonished excitement. This is a title that I’d randomly search for every now and again without actually expecting to get a result. So when this purrdy cover popped up, I didn’t hesitate to add it to my review list and claim it as my own.
I loved the first book in this series. It’s one of those books that I actually appreciate more each time that I read it. A Southern small-town setting, with a real focus on the characters rather than any huge melodrama, and although there is some homophobia it’s the exception rather than the rule in Mercury. I expected much the same from this second book, which is set in the same town and bumps one of the secondary characters from the first book into a main character role. It can be enjoyable to be surprised by the unexpected in a story, but sometimes, it’s definitely nice to get just what you were expecting. Which was the case with Cherry Bomb.
Billionaire Brian Curland has decided to head to the small town of Mercury so he can oversee the setting up of his new data center and attempt to convince his friend (MC from the first book), to return with him to LA. But before he even makes it to town he meets local minister, Evan Michaels and finds a new focus for his visit. The men form an immediate connection, and though they say over and over that it’s just sex and they know it can’t last…well, easier said than done.
I’m usually one of those judgey people who would roll their eyes at the word billionaire and move onto the next blurb. I prefer real characters that I can relate to, and that word tends to be a red flag to me. But it’s the second Mercury Rising book, so what was I to do? Thankfully, this author writes without resorting to tired, overused clichés. Yes, Brian is ridiculously loaded, but he remains a very relatable character. He’s pretty much a “normal” person. Evan, as the small town minister was a great character. He loved his calling and the author never tried to excuse that in anyway. I’m not a religious person myself, but it seems to me that religion is so often portrayed as a negative these days. Evan was full to overflowing with love and faith, and the fact that he was a gay minister was never used to create homophobic tension.
There were some brilliant scenes in this story, which were somehow both simple and memorable. When the two men started dancing in Evan’s home, I was practically cooing over their cuteness, but what I loved most was when Evan and Brian would assure each other, often lying wrapped together, that when the time came for them to part, any heartache would be worth what they were experiencing at the time. OMG, that turned me to absolute mush!! The book really is angst free. The conflict in the story comes from the fact that the men can’t see how they could possibly manage to have a real relationship…but since you know that everything is going to end up cherry pie sweet – no angst.
In the back of this book, we’re teased with a title and a “coming soon” for the third Mercury book. I really hope that Trey is going to get his HEA and I can’t wait to see more of our other Mercury guys popping back up for a relationship update.
It’s not necessary that you read Cherry Pie before Cherry Bomb, but you’ll probably wish that you’d done so. The characters from that first book are very much present and you’ll end up wanting to know their story too.
Reviewed for ove Bytes Reviews
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2016/01/1...
January 9, 2016
3.5 stars
Brian Curland, CEO of Turnstiles, who also a good friend of John Ford (the millionaire who moved to Mercury in book #1) comes to Mercury with two purposes. On one hand, he is a bit curious about the town where he will set-up the new data center (thanks to John's proposal) but on the other hand he also wants to check John for himself and probably drags his friend back to L.A.. When his car breaks down on the side of the road -- dead zone, no signal -- Brian encounters Evan Michaels, the openly gay minister of the local Unitarian church. Sparks fly between them, but Evan is not sure about wanting to have an openly known relationship, especially with one that will leave the town anyway.
Last year, I read the second edition of Samantha Kane's Cherry Pie; a contemporary MM romance set at small fictional town of Mercury, North Carolina, and I loved it. So I was very excited when I found out that book #2 was on progress. When I saw this book was available at Netgalley, I requested it immediately, and Samhain was very kindly approved of my request.
For the most part, I really liked it. I think the charm of Cherry Bomb , for me, was that the ease of being with Brian and Evan. Sure, their attraction was instant, but it also felt believable. The chemistry was there. I also really liked how these two actually talked about things; including what they wanted and expected from their affair while Brian was in town. These two men didn't really drown in drama (even if they said there was "drama"), I felt that they acted quite maturely despite their differences or obstacles that came their way. This includes Evan's love to his hometown and the people who lives there which stops Evan from leaving Mercury.
However, I also didn't love it as much as Cherry Pie, maybe because the story rolled down nicely but without a very emotional impact on me as a reader that made me completely cheering this couple; unlike the feeling that I had for John and Connor. I also kinda wish that the last chapter lasted a little bit longer, just so things felt more wrapped up.
I hope that Samantha Kane continues with this series. There's potential! I mean, we still have Trey, Brian's ex-lover of a Hollywood hottie. Maybe he could also settle down at Mercury!! Plus I want to see how Mercury really rises, what with Brian's setting up his data center there which will brings economy to the small town.
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Brian Curland, CEO of Turnstiles, who also a good friend of John Ford (the millionaire who moved to Mercury in book #1) comes to Mercury with two purposes. On one hand, he is a bit curious about the town where he will set-up the new data center (thanks to John's proposal) but on the other hand he also wants to check John for himself and probably drags his friend back to L.A.. When his car breaks down on the side of the road -- dead zone, no signal -- Brian encounters Evan Michaels, the openly gay minister of the local Unitarian church. Sparks fly between them, but Evan is not sure about wanting to have an openly known relationship, especially with one that will leave the town anyway.
Last year, I read the second edition of Samantha Kane's Cherry Pie; a contemporary MM romance set at small fictional town of Mercury, North Carolina, and I loved it. So I was very excited when I found out that book #2 was on progress. When I saw this book was available at Netgalley, I requested it immediately, and Samhain was very kindly approved of my request.
For the most part, I really liked it. I think the charm of Cherry Bomb , for me, was that the ease of being with Brian and Evan. Sure, their attraction was instant, but it also felt believable. The chemistry was there. I also really liked how these two actually talked about things; including what they wanted and expected from their affair while Brian was in town. These two men didn't really drown in drama (even if they said there was "drama"), I felt that they acted quite maturely despite their differences or obstacles that came their way. This includes Evan's love to his hometown and the people who lives there which stops Evan from leaving Mercury.
However, I also didn't love it as much as Cherry Pie, maybe because the story rolled down nicely but without a very emotional impact on me as a reader that made me completely cheering this couple; unlike the feeling that I had for John and Connor. I also kinda wish that the last chapter lasted a little bit longer, just so things felt more wrapped up.
I hope that Samantha Kane continues with this series. There's potential! I mean, we still have Trey, Brian's ex-lover of a Hollywood hottie. Maybe he could also settle down at Mercury!! Plus I want to see how Mercury really rises, what with Brian's setting up his data center there which will brings economy to the small town.
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
June 25, 2018
5 ridiculously fantastic #CoverWin #StoryWin #FeelsWin #EverythingWIN stars
full review shortly ....
full review shortly ....
January 13, 2016
Billionaire CEO Brian decides to take a trip to the small town of Mercury to oversee the new data center he's having built, and to reevaluate his life a bit. He has more money than he knows what to do with but he doesn't have anyone so he's lonely. He never worried about being in a committed relationship before but that was before he met Evan when his car was broken down on the side of the road. They are instantly attracted to each other but Evan wants to keep everything they do together a secret because he is the town reverend.
Well, I can honestly say I never read a romance where one of them was a reverend before! Once I got over the weirdness of that, I really enjoyed the story and how their relationship developed. I didn't read the first book in the series, but I don't think that took away from the story at all. I definitely want to go back and read that one as well. Hopefully Brian's friend/ex-lover Trey gets his own story too. I liked watching how both of the main character's changed each other, but in good ways. Brian was used to being to recognized as the "guy with money", and Evan was the guy the "town saint" without any personal life. I really enjoyed this one.
** I received an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
Well, I can honestly say I never read a romance where one of them was a reverend before! Once I got over the weirdness of that, I really enjoyed the story and how their relationship developed. I didn't read the first book in the series, but I don't think that took away from the story at all. I definitely want to go back and read that one as well. Hopefully Brian's friend/ex-lover Trey gets his own story too. I liked watching how both of the main character's changed each other, but in good ways. Brian was used to being to recognized as the "guy with money", and Evan was the guy the "town saint" without any personal life. I really enjoyed this one.
** I received an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
January 26, 2016
Cherry Bomb starts off very well. I liked it quickly, but found myself wondering why. Quickly, I found the answers... The story of Brian, a billionaire who fucks around, has lots of fun, nothing really tying him down with the exception of his business. He’s likeable… Brian meets Evan, a minister of the local Unitarian church. Evan is a really good person. Like, the best humanity has to offer. He’s kind and generous, very giving. When the two of them meet, their flirting is cute. They have an instant attraction that I really liked a lot. They move along in a fashion completely predictable for a romance story. The little insecurities, questions about their mutual friends acceptance, struggles in the knowledge that Brian is not in Mercury for long, and despite their instant connection, what will happen when Brian leaves and Evan is alone once again.
So, the normal struggles of any relationship, for the most part.
Then the story just gets a little long…. And there are a couple instances where I wondered if there would be any discussion as to why both characters have what are to me, very messed up perceptions of what a man is and how a man should behave. Sadly, it’s not addressed much, or very well. I came to understand why Evan felt the way he did at first, but it had already rubbed me the wrong way.
I also had issues with Brian and Evan’s mutual friends. They’re quick to judge, quick to butt in where they’re not wanted, and gossiping little shits. They mean well, but as Brian tells them at one point, Evan is a grown man… leave him, and them, alone to deal with their situation on their own. On the other hand, the town folks are a fun group. They’re spirited and love their town, and Evan, with everything they have.
So, fun book for the most part. Brian and Evan area really good together, and figuring out how they can make it work is really what this is about. Changes each of them need to make to have a go at something neither of them through they’d have. Their resolution in the end seemed a little abrupt, but it works, giving them what I think is a peek towards a HEA.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
So, the normal struggles of any relationship, for the most part.
Then the story just gets a little long…. And there are a couple instances where I wondered if there would be any discussion as to why both characters have what are to me, very messed up perceptions of what a man is and how a man should behave. Sadly, it’s not addressed much, or very well. I came to understand why Evan felt the way he did at first, but it had already rubbed me the wrong way.
I also had issues with Brian and Evan’s mutual friends. They’re quick to judge, quick to butt in where they’re not wanted, and gossiping little shits. They mean well, but as Brian tells them at one point, Evan is a grown man… leave him, and them, alone to deal with their situation on their own. On the other hand, the town folks are a fun group. They’re spirited and love their town, and Evan, with everything they have.
So, fun book for the most part. Brian and Evan area really good together, and figuring out how they can make it work is really what this is about. Changes each of them need to make to have a go at something neither of them through they’d have. Their resolution in the end seemed a little abrupt, but it works, giving them what I think is a peek towards a HEA.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 25, 2016
Thoughts:
at 16%: they already move to the bedroom, quite fast! Especially with the characterization of Evan!
at 59%: still reading, mostly I liked it but all this talk of ‚leaving‘ in every single paragraph is getting on my nerves. It’s clear from the beginning that Brian either won’t leave or take Evan with him.
at 67%: This - Brian’s business decision, why is that such a surprise for everyone? I saw that coming from the beginning!
Finished. It started out great, moved on to being quite unbelievable, but I managed to move on:) Their constantly talking and thinking about Brian’s leaving got on my nerves and then the ‚drama‘ that wasn’t really one. It was blown out of proportion and somehow it was all settled within two measly paragraphs. And then it was finished.
In the end I gave it 3*, perhaps 3.5 stars.
at 16%: they already move to the bedroom, quite fast! Especially with the characterization of Evan!
at 59%: still reading, mostly I liked it but all this talk of ‚leaving‘ in every single paragraph is getting on my nerves. It’s clear from the beginning that Brian either won’t leave or take Evan with him.
at 67%: This - Brian’s business decision, why is that such a surprise for everyone? I saw that coming from the beginning!
Finished. It started out great, moved on to being quite unbelievable, but I managed to move on:) Their constantly talking and thinking about Brian’s leaving got on my nerves and then the ‚drama‘ that wasn’t really one. It was blown out of proportion and somehow it was all settled within two measly paragraphs. And then it was finished.
In the end I gave it 3*, perhaps 3.5 stars.
Read
February 12, 2016Dnf @ 28%. This is all nonsense and instalove. I can't bring myself to care what happens.
June 4, 2021
Esperaba más de este libro. No logré en ningun momento conectar con los personajes
January 23, 2016
Time to get lost in a little man on man love! Cherry Bomb is the story of the rich CEO, Brian who is turning up in the town of Mercury not just for business, but to try and talk his friend into giving up the easy life to return to the fast-paced life of LA. But Brian isn’t expecting to be snared by Evan within moments.
Small town minister and out of the closet – but desperately single – Evan Michaels, feels the chemistry with Brian instantly. For years he has refused to give into his desires, but he just can’t say no to this man. Brian is there to save the town but in the end it is the love of a man like Evan that is about to save him.
OMG. I probably should have read the full blurb first. But I pretty much stopped at CEO and put in my request – so the minister aspect was a complete surprise to me. It was a lovely surprise. Not only was I going to get some man on man goodness, I was getting a little bit of a taboo love story with the role that Evan played in his town.
I am not sure what it is about m/m romances that I love the most (although they are smoking hot) – but I think a lot of it is more about the way there is a little more struggle to the love story. I really enjoyed Cherry Bomb and although I dove into book two without reading book one, not too much was exposed that would make me unable to go back to book one. I look forward to reading more from this author and finishing out the series. A great pick for fans of m/m romances or even those that just want to test the waters.
Small town minister and out of the closet – but desperately single – Evan Michaels, feels the chemistry with Brian instantly. For years he has refused to give into his desires, but he just can’t say no to this man. Brian is there to save the town but in the end it is the love of a man like Evan that is about to save him.
OMG. I probably should have read the full blurb first. But I pretty much stopped at CEO and put in my request – so the minister aspect was a complete surprise to me. It was a lovely surprise. Not only was I going to get some man on man goodness, I was getting a little bit of a taboo love story with the role that Evan played in his town.
I am not sure what it is about m/m romances that I love the most (although they are smoking hot) – but I think a lot of it is more about the way there is a little more struggle to the love story. I really enjoyed Cherry Bomb and although I dove into book two without reading book one, not too much was exposed that would make me unable to go back to book one. I look forward to reading more from this author and finishing out the series. A great pick for fans of m/m romances or even those that just want to test the waters.
August 7, 2017
4.5 Stars!
Dang, I really like this series! The writing is spot on on, setting and the world compelling, the characters complex and the romance hot, tender and complex.
So, I love me some clergy heroes. LOL. I enjoy them because it means they have thought carefully about and invested in the spiritual (what are we all here for) aspects of their life. Evan is just amazing. Human and loving and strong.
I like grown ups in my romance too. Brian and Evan are both grown and they talk and they acknowledge their shortcomings and the barriers to their relationship.
There wasn't much I didn't love about this book. I am not sure how many times I will reread it which is why it isn't a 5 star but this is a great couple. I can't to read the next book in the series and would really love more books after that.
Dang, I really like this series! The writing is spot on on, setting and the world compelling, the characters complex and the romance hot, tender and complex.
So, I love me some clergy heroes. LOL. I enjoy them because it means they have thought carefully about and invested in the spiritual (what are we all here for) aspects of their life. Evan is just amazing. Human and loving and strong.
I like grown ups in my romance too. Brian and Evan are both grown and they talk and they acknowledge their shortcomings and the barriers to their relationship.
There wasn't much I didn't love about this book. I am not sure how many times I will reread it which is why it isn't a 5 star but this is a great couple. I can't to read the next book in the series and would really love more books after that.
January 15, 2016
This is the second book in the Mercury Rising series and does not have to be read in sequence--though I recommend the first book, CHERRY PIE, too.
I really enjoyed this quaint contemporary M/M romance.
Evan Michaels is an out gay Unitarian minister in Mercury North Carolina who also runs the halfway house where his childhood friend Conner stayed after he cleaned out of drugs in prison. (Brief recap of the first book: Conn and John were the MCs of CHERRY PIE and have developed a strong relationship. John is an internet millionaire, an app creator who's eschewed the Cali life and decided that the cozy, but dying, town of Mercury is his new home. And John's friend, CEO of an Internet portal company, Brian Culand has committed to building a call center in Mercury to provide jobs to the poor populace.)
Well, Brian thinks John's lost his mind to move to "the middle of nowhere" and decides to do a bit of his own reconnaissance, and talk John into working for him back in Cali. Only, Brian's not really an adventurer. He rents a wreck of a car, breaks down in a cellular dead zone, and is rescued by a beautiful, built man who seems to have a curious eye. And soft lips that Brian, without any ado, ravages. Yep, Brian's impetuous. Kiss a strange, muscular man you have known for 38 seconds? He's lucky that he didn't become a back woods missing person.
Evan's shocked, but pleased. He's attracted to the man in his truck, and he's intoxicated by the feeling of being wanted sexually. Evan's been a minister for several years, and while he's out regarding his sexuality, everyone in Mercury sees him as being The Reverend, not just an ordinary man with needs. Plus, there are no secrets in Mercury. If he goes out with a man, the whole town will know. Would they still accept him as the spiritual leader he feels called to be?
So, fast forward about four hours, and Evan's in Brian's bed at the hotel living out some of the many sexual fantasies he's indulged in during his last SEVEN YEARS of celibacy. I really loved the playfulness of this couple. They don't expect a lifelong romance, and so they cast their fears aside and screw with abandon. It's charming, really. They spend a week together, and it's no secret between them that there is more than a fling happening. But, life gets int he way. Brian's plans for the call center aren't exactly what John (and Evan and the good people of Mercury for that matter!) had hoped. The truth of is it is a bit of a kick in the nuts for Evan, who loves Mercury and all his parishoners. It also marks the end of "Brivan" and their "secret" romance. For a time.
Expect some serious Cupid activity on the part of Brian's on-again-off-again Trey, a popular bisexual actor with starry-eyed dreams for reuniting Brian and Evan. And expect for jaded Brian to go through an existential crisis that is entirely the fault of falling for a selfless man of God. There is little to the reunion, which was disappointing, as their chemistry was explosive and I'd have liked a parting pairing before this one ended. That said, there's another book in this series, and I'm sure it will feature Brian and Evan helping Trey with his (possible) pain killer + alcohol addiction. And I have my pick for Trey's romantic interest all lined up.
This is a quick read with a sweet romance and a compelling plot arc in guise of reinvigorating a dying town. Americana is in full display from the formica-topped greasy spoons to the local color. I gotta get myself out to Kure Beach one of these days. Check out if it is as relaxing and romantic as it sounds.
I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
I really enjoyed this quaint contemporary M/M romance.
Evan Michaels is an out gay Unitarian minister in Mercury North Carolina who also runs the halfway house where his childhood friend Conner stayed after he cleaned out of drugs in prison. (Brief recap of the first book: Conn and John were the MCs of CHERRY PIE and have developed a strong relationship. John is an internet millionaire, an app creator who's eschewed the Cali life and decided that the cozy, but dying, town of Mercury is his new home. And John's friend, CEO of an Internet portal company, Brian Culand has committed to building a call center in Mercury to provide jobs to the poor populace.)
Well, Brian thinks John's lost his mind to move to "the middle of nowhere" and decides to do a bit of his own reconnaissance, and talk John into working for him back in Cali. Only, Brian's not really an adventurer. He rents a wreck of a car, breaks down in a cellular dead zone, and is rescued by a beautiful, built man who seems to have a curious eye. And soft lips that Brian, without any ado, ravages. Yep, Brian's impetuous. Kiss a strange, muscular man you have known for 38 seconds? He's lucky that he didn't become a back woods missing person.
Evan's shocked, but pleased. He's attracted to the man in his truck, and he's intoxicated by the feeling of being wanted sexually. Evan's been a minister for several years, and while he's out regarding his sexuality, everyone in Mercury sees him as being The Reverend, not just an ordinary man with needs. Plus, there are no secrets in Mercury. If he goes out with a man, the whole town will know. Would they still accept him as the spiritual leader he feels called to be?
So, fast forward about four hours, and Evan's in Brian's bed at the hotel living out some of the many sexual fantasies he's indulged in during his last SEVEN YEARS of celibacy. I really loved the playfulness of this couple. They don't expect a lifelong romance, and so they cast their fears aside and screw with abandon. It's charming, really. They spend a week together, and it's no secret between them that there is more than a fling happening. But, life gets int he way. Brian's plans for the call center aren't exactly what John (and Evan and the good people of Mercury for that matter!) had hoped. The truth of is it is a bit of a kick in the nuts for Evan, who loves Mercury and all his parishoners. It also marks the end of "Brivan" and their "secret" romance. For a time.
Expect some serious Cupid activity on the part of Brian's on-again-off-again Trey, a popular bisexual actor with starry-eyed dreams for reuniting Brian and Evan. And expect for jaded Brian to go through an existential crisis that is entirely the fault of falling for a selfless man of God. There is little to the reunion, which was disappointing, as their chemistry was explosive and I'd have liked a parting pairing before this one ended. That said, there's another book in this series, and I'm sure it will feature Brian and Evan helping Trey with his (possible) pain killer + alcohol addiction. And I have my pick for Trey's romantic interest all lined up.
This is a quick read with a sweet romance and a compelling plot arc in guise of reinvigorating a dying town. Americana is in full display from the formica-topped greasy spoons to the local color. I gotta get myself out to Kure Beach one of these days. Check out if it is as relaxing and romantic as it sounds.
I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
February 21, 2016
4.5 Stars ~ Cherry Bomb is the first book I’ve read by Samantha Kane. It took me a while to complete it due to work and life, but each time I continued reading, the story gripped me as if I hadn’t walked away. Part of the reason for this, I suspect, is that the pace was leisurely. There was no nail-biting action or suspense. Instead, this book is a well-grounded, realistic view of two people from different worlds coming together and navigating obstacles.
Brian is a billionaire. Yup, you read that right. He’s so rich he can’t even count that high. He has a thriving company and everything he touches seems to turn to gold. Well, except for his personal life. He can’t seem to let his guard down enough to make a real connection with another man.
Evan is the opposite. He’s a small town minister and definitely NOT a billionaire. He’s content to live in the small town of Mercury, North Carolina. Living involves respect, a sense of belonging, and a place he loves and calls home, but it does not include an active gay lifestyle. He isn’t comfortable living openly as an active gay man, feeling his community can accept he’s gay as long as they aren’t picturing him doing gay things.
Most of the book centers on the two of them exploring each other and in the process, learning things about themselves. The emotions and progression of their relationship is slow, the development of the characters, the setting, and other people in Mercury evolving go at a natural pace. When they begin to explore each other sexually, the heat sparks up. Much of this is due to the idea of an inexperienced minister getting all sexified for the first time…maybe that makes me a sinner, but I found it really hot.
What I really enjoyed about this book is how the author allowed the story to happen. She didn’t force anything. There were no significant plot twists or conventions that propel a story into turmoil in order to create tension. I could imagine this happening in real life. That made it even more romantic and exciting.
So, as a first time Samantha Kane reader, I’m looking forward to reading more of her work.
Reviewed by Taz for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
Brian is a billionaire. Yup, you read that right. He’s so rich he can’t even count that high. He has a thriving company and everything he touches seems to turn to gold. Well, except for his personal life. He can’t seem to let his guard down enough to make a real connection with another man.
Evan is the opposite. He’s a small town minister and definitely NOT a billionaire. He’s content to live in the small town of Mercury, North Carolina. Living involves respect, a sense of belonging, and a place he loves and calls home, but it does not include an active gay lifestyle. He isn’t comfortable living openly as an active gay man, feeling his community can accept he’s gay as long as they aren’t picturing him doing gay things.
Most of the book centers on the two of them exploring each other and in the process, learning things about themselves. The emotions and progression of their relationship is slow, the development of the characters, the setting, and other people in Mercury evolving go at a natural pace. When they begin to explore each other sexually, the heat sparks up. Much of this is due to the idea of an inexperienced minister getting all sexified for the first time…maybe that makes me a sinner, but I found it really hot.
What I really enjoyed about this book is how the author allowed the story to happen. She didn’t force anything. There were no significant plot twists or conventions that propel a story into turmoil in order to create tension. I could imagine this happening in real life. That made it even more romantic and exciting.
So, as a first time Samantha Kane reader, I’m looking forward to reading more of her work.
Reviewed by Taz for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
February 18, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
I really enjoyed Cherry Pie, so was delighted when I received this second book in the series to read. And I was not disappointed. Whilst it is not as amazing as Cherry Pie, it is still a lovely read, with a great ending. I also have great hope for future books - Mercury is certainly rising!
I liked both the lead characters for their honesty and their self awareness, or lack thereof. Their single-mindedness to succeed in their field, and not to allow personal emotions deflect them ... until of course, they fall for each other and just cannot see a solution, nor an exit point. I love stories where the world weary and the earnest meet - and it was not so dissimilar with Jack and Connor, and yet it was totally different. It was good to catch up with them, and the other interesting folk who live in Mercury. I liked that there is a story about a town as well as a romance in the plot - and as it moves forward, we get a picture of this place - and its level of tolerance too. The explanation of how the town came about was a subtle reflection of now, and the level of acceptance that the people of the town have for the men.
Ms Kane, I look forward to the next book in the series - hopefully we have the same man in mind !
I really enjoyed Cherry Pie, so was delighted when I received this second book in the series to read. And I was not disappointed. Whilst it is not as amazing as Cherry Pie, it is still a lovely read, with a great ending. I also have great hope for future books - Mercury is certainly rising!
I liked both the lead characters for their honesty and their self awareness, or lack thereof. Their single-mindedness to succeed in their field, and not to allow personal emotions deflect them ... until of course, they fall for each other and just cannot see a solution, nor an exit point. I love stories where the world weary and the earnest meet - and it was not so dissimilar with Jack and Connor, and yet it was totally different. It was good to catch up with them, and the other interesting folk who live in Mercury. I liked that there is a story about a town as well as a romance in the plot - and as it moves forward, we get a picture of this place - and its level of tolerance too. The explanation of how the town came about was a subtle reflection of now, and the level of acceptance that the people of the town have for the men.
Ms Kane, I look forward to the next book in the series - hopefully we have the same man in mind !
February 8, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
This book starts off fast and keeps on going. I loved it, lots of hot sex, lots of feelings and lots of mushy feelings! If you read the first book in the series you already know Evan, town minister. Brian is in Mercury to start up a data center and bring life back to the small town. These two meet and hit it off immediately. I mean IMMEDIATELY. I love the chemistry between these two and I loved how each one tried to stay true to themselves and what they wanted. In the end Brian had to do some hard thinking but he finally got his head out of his butt. With the help of some good friends and even and ex-fling, these two finally get what they both want and deserve. I can’t wait to read the next book, they seem to get better each time.
Characters: well written
Sex: oh yeah!
Religious: one character is a minister
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: M/M Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
This book starts off fast and keeps on going. I loved it, lots of hot sex, lots of feelings and lots of mushy feelings! If you read the first book in the series you already know Evan, town minister. Brian is in Mercury to start up a data center and bring life back to the small town. These two meet and hit it off immediately. I mean IMMEDIATELY. I love the chemistry between these two and I loved how each one tried to stay true to themselves and what they wanted. In the end Brian had to do some hard thinking but he finally got his head out of his butt. With the help of some good friends and even and ex-fling, these two finally get what they both want and deserve. I can’t wait to read the next book, they seem to get better each time.
Characters: well written
Sex: oh yeah!
Religious: one character is a minister
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: M/M Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
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