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Southern Heart #1
Southern Pleasure
Evan
They tell you that a parent’s love is all-consuming. I never put much thought into it. Not until the minute I heard her take her first breath. That little girl is my world. I’d do anything to protect her.
My ex signed over her rights, and her family vowed that my daughter didn’t exist. Now that she’s gone, they want my little girl. They’re trying to say I can’t give her what she needs.
They’re wrong. I’m gearing up for the fight of my life, and when my best friend’s little sister offers to help, I take her up on it. I’ll do anything to keep my daughter with me.
McKinley
I’ve known Evan all my life. Our families’ farms run parallel with each other. He and my brother Aaron have been best friends for as long as I can remember.
What they’re trying to do is wrong. He needs my help, someone he can trust, and I’m more than happy to do it. I volunteered without hesitation.
I should have thought about what it would be like to have our lives intertwined. I should have thought about what would happen when our time together ended and how my heart would feel when I had to walk away.
They tell you that a parent’s love is all-consuming. I never put much thought into it. Not until the minute I heard her take her first breath. That little girl is my world. I’d do anything to protect her.
My ex signed over her rights, and her family vowed that my daughter didn’t exist. Now that she’s gone, they want my little girl. They’re trying to say I can’t give her what she needs.
They’re wrong. I’m gearing up for the fight of my life, and when my best friend’s little sister offers to help, I take her up on it. I’ll do anything to keep my daughter with me.
McKinley
I’ve known Evan all my life. Our families’ farms run parallel with each other. He and my brother Aaron have been best friends for as long as I can remember.
What they’re trying to do is wrong. He needs my help, someone he can trust, and I’m more than happy to do it. I volunteered without hesitation.
I should have thought about what it would be like to have our lives intertwined. I should have thought about what would happen when our time together ended and how my heart would feel when I had to walk away.
294 pages, Paperback
First published December 22, 2015
1445 people are currently reading
4418 people want to read
About the author
Kaylee Ryan
98 books6,377 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylee Ryan has earned the affectionate title of “Queen of Swoon” from her devoted readers. With over sixty romance novels to her name, Kaylee has built a beloved catalog of heartfelt stories that celebrate love in all its tender, emotional, and undeniably swoony forms. Her signature blend of charm, chemistry, and genuine happily-ever-afters has captivated readers around the world.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 705 reviews
August 3, 2019
Idiot overload 😂😂😂 The whole time I was reading this one is that I want to poke a bottle in the head of Evan and Kinley. This one gives me a lot of laugh, a little cry, something a little unexpected but something that brush in my mind, and lots of love...
A story of Wife, eX, whYs and Zest... If you love someone there's nothing wrong in telling why... Irrevocably!!! 😊
A story of Wife, eX, whYs and Zest... If you love someone there's nothing wrong in telling why... Irrevocably!!! 😊
December 26, 2015
4.5 Southern STARS
This is my first read by this author and I'm happy to report that I thoroughly enjoyed this southern romance! In the trope of falling in love with your big brother’s best friend, this story brought the feels, hot chemistry, and sweet southern warmth.
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Evan Chamberlin finds out that his girlfriend, Misty is pregnant and has no plans on keeping the baby. He comes to action making sure he will be the father and only guardian. Misty and Evan break things off and although he’s scared, he can’t wait to be a father. With the help of his best friend Aaron, and Aaron’s sister, McKinley Mills (who has just returned home after graduating college) he is nesting and ready for his daughter’s arrival.
”She’s fucking gorgeous, but she’s Aaron’s little sister. Not to mention, I’m about to be a single father. She doesn’t need my drama. I’m just grateful she’s helping me out. I’m overwhelmed by all of this. I can’t fuck that up.”
I adored how the story is told in alternating povs of both Evan and McKinley and how they come together first as friends and develop into more. It did take them FOREVER to actually say that they were in it for one another just as much as Evan’s beautiful daughter.
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Fear about the other’s true feelings doesn’t hold back on their relationship that proceeds forward as they become a team taking care of Evan’s beautiful little girl.
To my surprise the author even throws in a twist or two to this sweet southern tale.
Evan and McKinley were a perfectly matched couple and their love will leave a huge smile on a reader’s face.
Overall, a great, enjoyable read in a town I hope that the author revisits in writing a story for Aaron Mills… pretty please!
This is my first read by this author and I'm happy to report that I thoroughly enjoyed this southern romance! In the trope of falling in love with your big brother’s best friend, this story brought the feels, hot chemistry, and sweet southern warmth.
[image error]
Evan Chamberlin finds out that his girlfriend, Misty is pregnant and has no plans on keeping the baby. He comes to action making sure he will be the father and only guardian. Misty and Evan break things off and although he’s scared, he can’t wait to be a father. With the help of his best friend Aaron, and Aaron’s sister, McKinley Mills (who has just returned home after graduating college) he is nesting and ready for his daughter’s arrival.
”She’s fucking gorgeous, but she’s Aaron’s little sister. Not to mention, I’m about to be a single father. She doesn’t need my drama. I’m just grateful she’s helping me out. I’m overwhelmed by all of this. I can’t fuck that up.”
I adored how the story is told in alternating povs of both Evan and McKinley and how they come together first as friends and develop into more. It did take them FOREVER to actually say that they were in it for one another just as much as Evan’s beautiful daughter.
[image error]
Fear about the other’s true feelings doesn’t hold back on their relationship that proceeds forward as they become a team taking care of Evan’s beautiful little girl.
To my surprise the author even throws in a twist or two to this sweet southern tale.
Evan and McKinley were a perfectly matched couple and their love will leave a huge smile on a reader’s face.
Overall, a great, enjoyable read in a town I hope that the author revisits in writing a story for Aaron Mills… pretty please!
March 20, 2016
"4 My Smile stars"
It's safe to say this book was so sugary sweet and cheesy as Hell I was just slowly melting with Evan and McKinley and Lexi the sweetest baby girl ever!
I was in the mood for something easy and sweet and this book was perfect!I loved everything about it BUT of course there were a few teeny tiny things that kind of bothered me because let's face it I would have given 5 damn stars to this book otherwise!
Am I right or what...???;)))
"Kinley.You good?"
Am I good?Um, hell yes I'm good.Turn back around
and let me get back to ogling your fine ass.
I really enjoyed this reading!I don't know if you noticed but lately I'm really into hot single dads with adorable kids!And this book had it all!I mean thank God for small miracles!
"Southern Pleasure" was about Evan who got his girlfriend pregnant but she didn't want the baby so he convinced her after the labor to sign her rights to him and she could get the hell away from them.At the same time McKinley returned home from college and she was all about helping Evan get ready for his baby!Evan was best friends with McKinley's big brother so their families were close.McKinley was sweet and full of life girl who wanted to help everybody especially Evan who she had a crush on since school!
"There is no one I would want to share this with more than you.
You've helped me so damn much, Kinley."
They started as friends and came even closer when the baby came along!They were hot for each other but they never admitted it to one another!And that's the thing that frustrated me!When the lights were out they did a lot of stuff together BUT never talked about it in the morning...That kept going for a while until something happened and they had to make things official!But still they didn't share their feelings until the very end!And when that happened I was yelling....
"I don't need time,baby.You're part of this.
I'm always going to want you wherever I am,just remember that.
I always want you."
I liked their chemistry together!This book didn't have many sexy scenes but the few that we read about were pretty nice...
AnD Evan was a pretty GOOD lover...;)
"I'm not going to rush this.Never thought I would be inside you,
I would get to taste you, and I would be with you like this.
I'm taking my fucking time."
(
"I want you McKinley.More than anything or anyone,I want you.
I want to know how it feels to slide inside of you,to feel you from the inside.
I want to watch you and feel you as you come apart for me.I want all that but
I also want to cherish you,show you...
I want this to be a night neither one of us will ever forget."
"My heart needs you,baby.I love you with all that I am,
I love you, and I not only need you,but I want you.
More than anything,I want you."
Enjoy!xxx
It's safe to say this book was so sugary sweet and cheesy as Hell I was just slowly melting with Evan and McKinley and Lexi the sweetest baby girl ever!
I was in the mood for something easy and sweet and this book was perfect!I loved everything about it BUT of course there were a few teeny tiny things that kind of bothered me because let's face it I would have given 5 damn stars to this book otherwise!
Am I right or what...???;)))
"Kinley.You good?"
Am I good?Um, hell yes I'm good.Turn back around
and let me get back to ogling your fine ass.
I really enjoyed this reading!I don't know if you noticed but lately I'm really into hot single dads with adorable kids!And this book had it all!I mean thank God for small miracles!
"Southern Pleasure" was about Evan who got his girlfriend pregnant but she didn't want the baby so he convinced her after the labor to sign her rights to him and she could get the hell away from them.At the same time McKinley returned home from college and she was all about helping Evan get ready for his baby!Evan was best friends with McKinley's big brother so their families were close.McKinley was sweet and full of life girl who wanted to help everybody especially Evan who she had a crush on since school!
"There is no one I would want to share this with more than you.
You've helped me so damn much, Kinley."
They started as friends and came even closer when the baby came along!They were hot for each other but they never admitted it to one another!And that's the thing that frustrated me!When the lights were out they did a lot of stuff together BUT never talked about it in the morning...That kept going for a while until something happened and they had to make things official!But still they didn't share their feelings until the very end!And when that happened I was yelling....
"I don't need time,baby.You're part of this.
I'm always going to want you wherever I am,just remember that.
I always want you."
I liked their chemistry together!This book didn't have many sexy scenes but the few that we read about were pretty nice...
AnD Evan was a pretty GOOD lover...;)
"I'm not going to rush this.Never thought I would be inside you,
I would get to taste you, and I would be with you like this.
I'm taking my fucking time."
("I want you McKinley.More than anything or anyone,I want you.
I want to know how it feels to slide inside of you,to feel you from the inside.
I want to watch you and feel you as you come apart for me.I want all that but
I also want to cherish you,show you...
I want this to be a night neither one of us will ever forget."
"My heart needs you,baby.I love you with all that I am,
I love you, and I not only need you,but I want you.
More than anything,I want you."
Enjoy!xxx
dnf
August 11, 2018Hero meets heroine while his current/ex gf is pregnant with his child.
Yes, he’ll never go back to her, but that’s besides point.
This is just.....ick!
Yes, he’ll never go back to her, but that’s besides point.
This is just.....ick!
June 23, 2016
4.25 'Smiling so hard' Stars
“Tell me, McKinley. Tell me what you need.”
"You" she whispers.
Oh my good what a read. I've never smiled through a whole read like this book. It was so sweet and cute and sappy but in a good way. This book was just what I need it. It was the perfect timing.
Evan Chamberlin just got news dropped on him, he's going to be a father. But this situation is different. Misty(pregnant ex-gf) doesn't want anything to do with this pregnancy. She wants out. Evan convinced her to have his baby and he'll take care of everything.
I’m twenty-four years old. Old enough to be a father, although this is not how I’d planned it. I always thought I would be married to the love of my life when I started a family, but the fact of the matter is I’m not.
But he's not alone. He has a family that would help him. He has his bestfriend, Aaron. And McKinley Rae.
McKinley just came home from college. And on the same day she found out that her brothers bestfriend who's also her crush(love) is on the verge of being a father. So what you do to that situation, you help.
When I was younger, I had the biggest crush on Evan. Now, this is...different. I can only assume its because we're older, but my thoughts and these feelings go deeper than my teenage crush.
They get close and become bestfriends. But it's clear the chemistry is off the roof. They have deep feelings for one another and they just won't admit it to each other.
She’s fucking gorgeous, but she’s Aaron’s little sister. Not to mention, I’m about to be a single father. She doesn’t need my drama. I’m just grateful she’s helping me out. I’m overwhelmed by all this.
I can’t fuck that up.
Then a situation happens and it changes everything. They get even closer and it becomes everything. This book was really good. It could've been 5 stars but there was some tiny details that prevented that. Like for example, how they would kiss and make out and it gets hot and spicy but in the morning they act like nothing happened. Like it never happened. And that's what bothered me is that they took a long time to admit their feelings to each other.
I really liked the characters. Evan, cutest daddy on earth. Aaron, loved him. He was so funny and I think the only one who had his mind cleared up. I also liked the fact that he didn't "freak out" when he found out about his BFF/bro and sis. I mean they've been through a lot to have that happen to them. McKinley, she was so sweet and generous. And I just enjoyed and bottled this southern laid-back book.
Overall, this is my first time reading a book by this author and It sure wont be the last. I really enjoyed this book. I loved the family concept of it mostly though. If your planning on reading it,
Enjoy.
“Tell me, McKinley. Tell me what you need.”
"You" she whispers.
Oh my good what a read. I've never smiled through a whole read like this book. It was so sweet and cute and sappy but in a good way. This book was just what I need it. It was the perfect timing.
Evan Chamberlin just got news dropped on him, he's going to be a father. But this situation is different. Misty(pregnant ex-gf) doesn't want anything to do with this pregnancy. She wants out. Evan convinced her to have his baby and he'll take care of everything.
I’m twenty-four years old. Old enough to be a father, although this is not how I’d planned it. I always thought I would be married to the love of my life when I started a family, but the fact of the matter is I’m not.
But he's not alone. He has a family that would help him. He has his bestfriend, Aaron. And McKinley Rae.
McKinley just came home from college. And on the same day she found out that her brothers bestfriend who's also her crush(love) is on the verge of being a father. So what you do to that situation, you help.
When I was younger, I had the biggest crush on Evan. Now, this is...different. I can only assume its because we're older, but my thoughts and these feelings go deeper than my teenage crush.
They get close and become bestfriends. But it's clear the chemistry is off the roof. They have deep feelings for one another and they just won't admit it to each other.
She’s fucking gorgeous, but she’s Aaron’s little sister. Not to mention, I’m about to be a single father. She doesn’t need my drama. I’m just grateful she’s helping me out. I’m overwhelmed by all this.
I can’t fuck that up.
Then a situation happens and it changes everything. They get even closer and it becomes everything. This book was really good. It could've been 5 stars but there was some tiny details that prevented that. Like for example, how they would kiss and make out and it gets hot and spicy but in the morning they act like nothing happened. Like it never happened. And that's what bothered me is that they took a long time to admit their feelings to each other.
I really liked the characters. Evan, cutest daddy on earth. Aaron, loved him. He was so funny and I think the only one who had his mind cleared up. I also liked the fact that he didn't "freak out" when he found out about his BFF/bro and sis. I mean they've been through a lot to have that happen to them. McKinley, she was so sweet and generous. And I just enjoyed and bottled this southern laid-back book.
Overall, this is my first time reading a book by this author and It sure wont be the last. I really enjoyed this book. I loved the family concept of it mostly though. If your planning on reading it,
Enjoy.
March 5, 2016
4 Stars
You can’t help but want to lick the cover right? I’ve been in the single parent mood and I have been eyeing Kaylee Ryan’s books for some time now. I picked up this book because of the summary and cover. Southern Pleasure is a sweet southern book about making the best of what you got and loving the people in your life.
Evan just found out the girl he has been seeing is pregnant. She doesn’t want him or the baby. Evan begs her not to abort the baby and he would take on full responsibility. You fall in love with Evan from the first chapter. He’s willing to stay with this girl friend, to do anything to keep his baby. It’s endearing and adorable. His baby mama agrees that once the baby is born Evan can keep the baby on his own.
Evan is a single guy and he has no help. His parents and grandparents live in a different state. How is he going to raise a baby?
McKinley is Evan’s best friend’s little sister. I know right? Yes, older brother best friend book! McKinley is SUPER sweet and she’s the kind of person you want to be friends with. She cares for Evan and wants to help him in any way she can. But the couple soon realizes as they spend time together in preparing for the baby, they may want something more.
The book is meaty and there’s a lot of tension when Evan and McKinley bond. You want them to kiss, you want them to profess their undying love to each other, it’s really cute. The book shifts in the second half and I really enjoyed this part the best. I felt like the book moved forward a bit and the added stress made the book more enjoyable.
Overall, Southern Pleasure is a cute book with a single daddy. What else could you ask for?
Read on Kindle Unlimited
You can’t help but want to lick the cover right? I’ve been in the single parent mood and I have been eyeing Kaylee Ryan’s books for some time now. I picked up this book because of the summary and cover. Southern Pleasure is a sweet southern book about making the best of what you got and loving the people in your life.
Evan just found out the girl he has been seeing is pregnant. She doesn’t want him or the baby. Evan begs her not to abort the baby and he would take on full responsibility. You fall in love with Evan from the first chapter. He’s willing to stay with this girl friend, to do anything to keep his baby. It’s endearing and adorable. His baby mama agrees that once the baby is born Evan can keep the baby on his own.
Evan is a single guy and he has no help. His parents and grandparents live in a different state. How is he going to raise a baby?
McKinley is Evan’s best friend’s little sister. I know right? Yes, older brother best friend book! McKinley is SUPER sweet and she’s the kind of person you want to be friends with. She cares for Evan and wants to help him in any way she can. But the couple soon realizes as they spend time together in preparing for the baby, they may want something more.
The book is meaty and there’s a lot of tension when Evan and McKinley bond. You want them to kiss, you want them to profess their undying love to each other, it’s really cute. The book shifts in the second half and I really enjoyed this part the best. I felt like the book moved forward a bit and the added stress made the book more enjoyable.
Overall, Southern Pleasure is a cute book with a single daddy. What else could you ask for?
Read on Kindle Unlimited
December 28, 2015
Evan has just learned that the girl he has been dating/sleeping with is pregnant and she has no intentions of keeping the baby. Evan begs her to keep the baby, to sign over rights to him and let him raise the child alone. I sort of immediately loved Evan, it’s kind of hard not to. He is a man’s man, but has a heart of gold.
He immediately asks his best friend Aaron to come over, so he can give him the news. Aaron just so happens to be on the way back from picking up his sister from the airport. McKinley just graduated college and is moving back home to start her career as a photographer. It has been years since McKinley and Evan have seen each other, but the attraction is definitely there.
McKinley steps up to the plate and helps Evan as he transitions into fatherhood. Add in the attraction they feel for each other and you have the perfect story. I love a brother’s best friend story and single father – hello, it’s like this story was written for me!
You’re a part of this. I’m always going to want you wherever I am, just remember that. I always want you.
There are somethings I would have changed and I won’t deny this story is sugary sweet and a little cheesy at times. But I love a story I miss when I am done reading and I missed these characters. So when I was debating on a five star versus four, because GR still doesn’t have half ratings I had to go with a full 5.
July 19, 2018
DNF after one chapter. This book can go fuck itself.
I have never had a hero provoke such a passionate disgust in me, within the space of just one chapter. Evan is selfish, spiteful, inconsiderate, and just plain cruel.
In this chapter, Misty, Evan's girlfriend, announces that she has accidentally become pregnant. After some careful thought, she says she plans to terminate the pregnancy because she is not ready or responsible enough to be a parent, she doesn't want to be tied down yet, she wants to travel the world, she doesn't want to be stuck in a small town in Kentucky with a man whom she does not seem to love, etc. This was clearly a difficult decision, but she is reasonable throughout and is morally justified.
So what does Evan do? Does he comfort her, assure her he understands, that they can have children when she's ready, say he will still love her regardless of her decision? No, he accuses her of wanting to kill his unborn child. He guilt trips her into agreeing to spend nine months carrying a child she doesn't want, which will change her body forever, have a huge emotional effect, and follow her all her life. We are outright told that he hates (yes, hates) her the moment she says she wants to terminate the pregnancy.
It would be one thing if the book cast Evan's actions in a negative light, and helped us sympathise with Misty. That might give me hope that Evan sees the error of his ways and looks to atone later on. But it doesn't. The tone of the book sides with Evan, and I strongly suspect we're seeing the author's own ignorant, disgusting views on abortion coming through in her writing.
I simply can't reconcile that with this book, and refuse to read another word of it. I would be surprised if I ever return to this author.
I have never had a hero provoke such a passionate disgust in me, within the space of just one chapter. Evan is selfish, spiteful, inconsiderate, and just plain cruel.
In this chapter, Misty, Evan's girlfriend, announces that she has accidentally become pregnant. After some careful thought, she says she plans to terminate the pregnancy because she is not ready or responsible enough to be a parent, she doesn't want to be tied down yet, she wants to travel the world, she doesn't want to be stuck in a small town in Kentucky with a man whom she does not seem to love, etc. This was clearly a difficult decision, but she is reasonable throughout and is morally justified.
So what does Evan do? Does he comfort her, assure her he understands, that they can have children when she's ready, say he will still love her regardless of her decision? No, he accuses her of wanting to kill his unborn child. He guilt trips her into agreeing to spend nine months carrying a child she doesn't want, which will change her body forever, have a huge emotional effect, and follow her all her life. We are outright told that he hates (yes, hates) her the moment she says she wants to terminate the pregnancy.
It would be one thing if the book cast Evan's actions in a negative light, and helped us sympathise with Misty. That might give me hope that Evan sees the error of his ways and looks to atone later on. But it doesn't. The tone of the book sides with Evan, and I strongly suspect we're seeing the author's own ignorant, disgusting views on abortion coming through in her writing.
I simply can't reconcile that with this book, and refuse to read another word of it. I would be surprised if I ever return to this author.
December 29, 2015
Overall rating: 4 "Southern Pleasure" stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
OW/OM drama:
Push/pull:
HEA:
This is the first book I have read by this author and will definitely not be the last. I agree with a friend in that she reminds me of Kelly Elliot, but in my opinion, way better. This book was sugary sweet and MINUS all of the crazy drama that some authors like to throw in. There really was no angst. The only "angst" just came from both being insecure and thinking the other doesn't love them.
This was the sweetest single parent romance. I appreciated how this hero 200% was focused on raising his daughter from day one he finds out his girlfriend - well ex girlfriend was pregnant. He wasn't going out getting drunk, getting laid - he was working on his farm trying to make sure his ex Misty was taking care of herself, getting the nursery ready and his home ready and going to all of her doctor's appointments all the while getting closer to Kinley.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves sweet single parent romances with lots of baby time. Little Lexi was a DOLL!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate pasts:
OW/OM drama:
Push/pull:
HEA:
This is the first book I have read by this author and will definitely not be the last. I agree with a friend in that she reminds me of Kelly Elliot, but in my opinion, way better. This book was sugary sweet and MINUS all of the crazy drama that some authors like to throw in. There really was no angst. The only "angst" just came from both being insecure and thinking the other doesn't love them.
This was the sweetest single parent romance. I appreciated how this hero 200% was focused on raising his daughter from day one he finds out his girlfriend - well ex girlfriend was pregnant. He wasn't going out getting drunk, getting laid - he was working on his farm trying to make sure his ex Misty was taking care of herself, getting the nursery ready and his home ready and going to all of her doctor's appointments all the while getting closer to Kinley.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves sweet single parent romances with lots of baby time. Little Lexi was a DOLL!
December 23, 2015
This was a sweet story filled with love that suited to read on Christmas. NO ex dramas. Recommend to those who love to read romance with baby, single parent, or friends-to-lovers.
After found his ex-girlfriend was pregnant, Evan begged her to keep the baby and sis everything he could to help her. However, he didn't know a thing about what baby needed and what a nursery was. Meanwhile, his best friend's sister, Kinley, just came home after graduation, volunteered to help him from decorating the nursery to shopping for the baby. After the baby came, although Kinley's brother and parents did a lot to help, it's Kinley that Evan relied on most. Gradually, they fell in love but were afraid to break their friendship.
It's sweet to see how Even and Kinley interacted with this baby, esp Kinley, you'd think she was a mother already (later she did explain she had babysat many children). I admired Evan's courage to decide to be a single parent as soon as he learned his ex's pregnancy while he was only 25 and had no parents to help him.
The only thing annoyed me was Kinley and Even's stubbornness. All of their family members knew they were in love with each other, except themselves. They kept on saying they were just friends help each other, blah blah, so I lost some patience at that parts. It would be better if these parts where they struggled with these emotion were shorter.
All in all, this was a warm story. Recommend to those who love to read romance with baby, single parent, or friends-to-lovers.
After found his ex-girlfriend was pregnant, Evan begged her to keep the baby and sis everything he could to help her. However, he didn't know a thing about what baby needed and what a nursery was. Meanwhile, his best friend's sister, Kinley, just came home after graduation, volunteered to help him from decorating the nursery to shopping for the baby. After the baby came, although Kinley's brother and parents did a lot to help, it's Kinley that Evan relied on most. Gradually, they fell in love but were afraid to break their friendship.
It's sweet to see how Even and Kinley interacted with this baby, esp Kinley, you'd think she was a mother already (later she did explain she had babysat many children). I admired Evan's courage to decide to be a single parent as soon as he learned his ex's pregnancy while he was only 25 and had no parents to help him.
The only thing annoyed me was Kinley and Even's stubbornness. All of their family members knew they were in love with each other, except themselves. They kept on saying they were just friends help each other, blah blah, so I lost some patience at that parts. It would be better if these parts where they struggled with these emotion were shorter.
All in all, this was a warm story. Recommend to those who love to read romance with baby, single parent, or friends-to-lovers.
February 27, 2016
I loved this sweet and unconventional romance! When Evan's girlfriend shows up and tells him she's pregnant and doesn't want to keep the baby, he steps up and asks for full custody. Evan isn't prepared to be a single father, he really knows nothing about kids and everything he's going to need for his baby. All he knows is that he already loves his unborn child and will do whatever he has to so that he can give his baby a good life. McKinley is Evan's best friend Aaron's little sister. She just moved back to town after completing her degree and when Evan tells her about the baby, she offers to help him prepare for the baby. I loved the connection between Evan and Kinley. I loved both these characters but especially Evan and how he felt about his child. This was incredibly sweet and romantic. There wasn't a lot of angst in this story but there was just enough to keep in interesting. I really loved this book and the characters and I really hope Aaron is going to get his own story too! I highly recommend this book, especially if you enjoy single-parent or best friends sister type romance!
September 5, 2016
**Audio reread 9/4/16**
Great book to listen to on my work commute. Liked it just as much this time around. Great story, but it took way to long for them to come clean about their feelings. I loved her brother Aaron and look forward to his story that is in the works!
I firmly believe that you can not go wrong with a Kaylee Ryan book. The story line, the characters. ..they are amazing. This book was no exception. I had pre ordered so at midnight I kept refreshing until it showed up. I loved Evan and Kinley. Their love was so sweet and real. Now, I am hoping for a story about Aaron (unca awon... so cute )
Great book to listen to on my work commute. Liked it just as much this time around. Great story, but it took way to long for them to come clean about their feelings. I loved her brother Aaron and look forward to his story that is in the works!
I firmly believe that you can not go wrong with a Kaylee Ryan book. The story line, the characters. ..they are amazing. This book was no exception. I had pre ordered so at midnight I kept refreshing until it showed up. I loved Evan and Kinley. Their love was so sweet and real. Now, I am hoping for a story about Aaron (unca awon... so cute )
January 10, 2017
This is a cute and definitely sappy romance book, the characters were all extremely likeable and the character development for Misty (although you don't see much of her in the end) kind of tugged at my heart strings.
An all over heart warming story that left me feeling so warm and fuzzy afterwards.
3.5 stars, it was a heartwarming read but also very cliche, so I'd steer clear if you don't like that kind of thing.
An all over heart warming story that left me feeling so warm and fuzzy afterwards.
3.5 stars, it was a heartwarming read but also very cliche, so I'd steer clear if you don't like that kind of thing.
April 22, 2016
The book opens with Evan finding out his girlfriend is pregnant even though he was wrapped and she was on bc pills. Misty does not want to be pregnant. He convinces her to sign over all her rights to the baby and let him raise it. The problem is, he knows nothing about babies.
Mckinley has just come home after graduating from college. She finds out her brother's best friend, Evan is having a baby. She agrees to help him get ready.
The two become very close during the preparation for the baby. Even once the baby arrives, Mckinley continues to help Evan with Lexi. Of course, feelings develop and love grows out of friendship.
This was a really sweet and mostly low angst book. I loved how Mckinley was there for Evan all the way and how she loved little Lexi from the start. She was truly Lexi's mom. My problem with this book and what kept it from being a good 4.5-5 Stars was the total lack of communication and that it took until 93 freaking percent for them to admit their feelings to each other! It was so damn obvious to everyone but them two, that they loved each other, it was just plain stupid! I can understand some of it but come on! That was way too long and I got so frustrated. Having said that, they had some really sweet and sexy moments together even though they wouldn't admit out loud their feelings.
I loved the epilogue and was so happy to see them get a HEA. I really hope Ms Ryan writes Aaron's story.
Mckinley has just come home after graduating from college. She finds out her brother's best friend, Evan is having a baby. She agrees to help him get ready.
The two become very close during the preparation for the baby. Even once the baby arrives, Mckinley continues to help Evan with Lexi. Of course, feelings develop and love grows out of friendship.
This was a really sweet and mostly low angst book. I loved how Mckinley was there for Evan all the way and how she loved little Lexi from the start. She was truly Lexi's mom. My problem with this book and what kept it from being a good 4.5-5 Stars was the total lack of communication and that it took until 93 freaking percent for them to admit their feelings to each other! It was so damn obvious to everyone but them two, that they loved each other, it was just plain stupid! I can understand some of it but come on! That was way too long and I got so frustrated. Having said that, they had some really sweet and sexy moments together even though they wouldn't admit out loud their feelings.
I loved the epilogue and was so happy to see them get a HEA. I really hope Ms Ryan writes Aaron's story.
Want to read
October 17, 2018💝FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (10/17/18)!💝
Blurb:
They tell you that a parent’s love is all consuming. I never put much thought into it. Not until the minute I heard her take her first breath. That little girl is my world. I’d do anything to protect her.
My ex signed over her rights and her family vowed that my daughter didn’t exist. Now that she’s gone, they want my little girl. They’re trying to say I can’t give her what she needs.
I’ve known Evan all my life. Our families farms run parallel with each other. He and my brother Aaron have been best friends for as long as I can remember.
What they’re trying to do is wrong. He needs my help, someone he can trust and I’m more than happy to do it. I volunteered without hesitation.
I should have thought about what it would be like to have our lives intertwined. I should have thought about what would happen when our time together ended and how my heart would feel when I had to walk away.
Blurb:
They tell you that a parent’s love is all consuming. I never put much thought into it. Not until the minute I heard her take her first breath. That little girl is my world. I’d do anything to protect her.
My ex signed over her rights and her family vowed that my daughter didn’t exist. Now that she’s gone, they want my little girl. They’re trying to say I can’t give her what she needs.
I’ve known Evan all my life. Our families farms run parallel with each other. He and my brother Aaron have been best friends for as long as I can remember.
What they’re trying to do is wrong. He needs my help, someone he can trust and I’m more than happy to do it. I volunteered without hesitation.
I should have thought about what it would be like to have our lives intertwined. I should have thought about what would happen when our time together ended and how my heart would feel when I had to walk away.
January 1, 2016
OK, the cover hunk got me interested. Don't let the cover fool you. This is a VERY sweet story. The Hero. Ethan (24), is such a sweet and loving guy. He's working his family's farm after his dad and mom move away to Alabama for dad's cancer treatments. Ethan is best buds with Aaron. Aaron's sister, McKinley (22) just got back home after graduating college. Ethan immediate breaks the news that Ethan's "girlfriend" Misty is pregnant. Misty doesn't want the baby & Ethan persuades her to surrender the baby's custody to him. The firs 1/3 of the book is the pregnancy and Ethan's growing love for his future child. He's also in a panic of how to prepare and take care of his baby. McKinley steps in and helps Ethan with the nursery, shopping for baby supplies , etc.
Ethan and McKinley spend a lot of time together. Neither of them realized that the other wants more from their relationship. Ethan and McKinley's parents and Aaron all see the obvious signs of "more than friends".
I enjoyed the fairly realistic milestones in the pregnancy-it did go on a little too long for me. A pregnancy is 40 weeks & it sure felt like it.
I really liked Ethan's reaction to his baby and realistic learning curve that he had to go through.
Again, McKinley steps in to help-especially helping get the baby on a sleeping schedule (That was #1 for me too- my eldest sister helped me w/ my first child). Again, I'd say realistic, but was McKinley too good to be true? She sure was awesome with Ethan's baby. She must have been one awesome babysitter when she was younger.
Ethan and McKinley kept "dancing around" each other. The POV was first person, alternating each chapter. I was able to know what the other was thinking. They each didn't want to ruin their friendship. I loved that they were a great team when taking care of the baby. How about SAYING what they felt about each other? There were a couple of great opportunities to reveal their true feelings.
Near the end, there was a twist in the plot what was out of left field for me.
The ending and the epilogue were really good and pulled it all together, making this a 4 star book.
No ow (baby mama, thank the lord, was NOT an issue), no om, no cheating.
Thanks for the recco JLC! ^_^
Ethan and McKinley spend a lot of time together. Neither of them realized that the other wants more from their relationship. Ethan and McKinley's parents and Aaron all see the obvious signs of "more than friends".
I enjoyed the fairly realistic milestones in the pregnancy-it did go on a little too long for me. A pregnancy is 40 weeks & it sure felt like it.
I really liked Ethan's reaction to his baby and realistic learning curve that he had to go through.
Again, McKinley steps in to help-especially helping get the baby on a sleeping schedule (That was #1 for me too- my eldest sister helped me w/ my first child). Again, I'd say realistic, but was McKinley too good to be true? She sure was awesome with Ethan's baby. She must have been one awesome babysitter when she was younger.
Ethan and McKinley kept "dancing around" each other. The POV was first person, alternating each chapter. I was able to know what the other was thinking. They each didn't want to ruin their friendship. I loved that they were a great team when taking care of the baby. How about SAYING what they felt about each other? There were a couple of great opportunities to reveal their true feelings.
Near the end, there was a twist in the plot what was out of left field for me.
The ending and the epilogue were really good and pulled it all together, making this a 4 star book.
No ow (baby mama, thank the lord, was NOT an issue), no om, no cheating.
Thanks for the recco JLC! ^_^
December 22, 2015
4 Swoony Stars!!
outhern Pleasure is another perfect example as to why I enjoy books by Kaylee Ryan. Her books are light with some drama, full of heart and men that make you swoon. Now, Southern Pleasure is a little bit different than the books I’ve read from Kaylee Ryan in the past. This one does have more of a serious tone to it, but it does not disappoint at all.
Southern Pleasure is a quick and enjoyable read. It follows the story of Kinley and Evan and is told from dual points of view. I have to tell you, from the moment I opened this book, I was intrigued. I was immediately blown away by just how great a guy Evan is. See when we first meet Evan, he’s finding out that his now ex-girlfriend is pregnant, but she doesn’t want to have the baby. Evan is terrified of being a father, but will do anything to keep his baby. This was the moment I fell in love with Evan. I admired his strength, his love and determination. He knew he was in over his head, but was determined to give this baby the life that it deserved. And lets face it, he totally dodged a bullet with his baby’s mama. I was not sad to see her leave the picture. Kinley was the perfect friend. She always had an attraction towards Evan and really stepped up to the plate when Evan needed her most. Of course over time, their connection grew. And I have to tell you, it was so much fun watching these two fall hopelessly in love with each other, but trying to fight every step of it.
Southern Pleasure is just one of those books that makes you feel good. You can’t help but have a smile on your face while reading it. Yes, there is some drama, but it’s not over the top and makes total sense to the story. Southern Pleasure is a great friends to lovers story. I loved how close Evan was to Kinley’s family. I loved the friendship and love that Kinley and Evan shared; and just how far they would go to protect each other. And Evan was totally swoon worthy. He had me swooning so many times!! Fans of Kaylee Ryan, you are just going to love and devour this book!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
outhern Pleasure is another perfect example as to why I enjoy books by Kaylee Ryan. Her books are light with some drama, full of heart and men that make you swoon. Now, Southern Pleasure is a little bit different than the books I’ve read from Kaylee Ryan in the past. This one does have more of a serious tone to it, but it does not disappoint at all.
Southern Pleasure is a quick and enjoyable read. It follows the story of Kinley and Evan and is told from dual points of view. I have to tell you, from the moment I opened this book, I was intrigued. I was immediately blown away by just how great a guy Evan is. See when we first meet Evan, he’s finding out that his now ex-girlfriend is pregnant, but she doesn’t want to have the baby. Evan is terrified of being a father, but will do anything to keep his baby. This was the moment I fell in love with Evan. I admired his strength, his love and determination. He knew he was in over his head, but was determined to give this baby the life that it deserved. And lets face it, he totally dodged a bullet with his baby’s mama. I was not sad to see her leave the picture. Kinley was the perfect friend. She always had an attraction towards Evan and really stepped up to the plate when Evan needed her most. Of course over time, their connection grew. And I have to tell you, it was so much fun watching these two fall hopelessly in love with each other, but trying to fight every step of it.
Southern Pleasure is just one of those books that makes you feel good. You can’t help but have a smile on your face while reading it. Yes, there is some drama, but it’s not over the top and makes total sense to the story. Southern Pleasure is a great friends to lovers story. I loved how close Evan was to Kinley’s family. I loved the friendship and love that Kinley and Evan shared; and just how far they would go to protect each other. And Evan was totally swoon worthy. He had me swooning so many times!! Fans of Kaylee Ryan, you are just going to love and devour this book!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Want to read
December 22, 2015maybe, depends if his ex got pregnant while using condoms.lol
October 30, 2018
Calling this at 3.5 ⭐s.
Thanks was really cute, and really sweet, in that butterflies in the tummy kind of way. I wanted some more angst, but it was enjoyable none the less.
Thanks was really cute, and really sweet, in that butterflies in the tummy kind of way. I wanted some more angst, but it was enjoyable none the less.
February 13, 2016
4.5 stars! Adorable read!
January 25, 2022
Okay even though Kinley and Evan have known each other for years and the book is spread over a large period of time, I still had the instant love feeling.
Evan was a stand up guy, taking his unborn daughter and making sure she's okay. But if Kinley tells me what a stand up guy he is one more time I'm going to cut her. I get it, he's great, he's hot, can we move on?
I think what bothered me was that we didn't get all that much relationship development, they were already in love with each other when the book started and it was a long ass journey to discovering it.
The whole 'we-have-to-get-married' thing was uncalled for. I get it, the two characters were too idiotic to get together without Mistys parents trying to take Lexi but it wasn't believable. If I were Mistys mom I would feel like somethings up if he got married right after finding out about the custody thing.
Their moments together, the ones that were meant to be sweet, kind of creeped me out. They would be making out a room away from a sleeping baby. Maybe it's just the NORMAL human in me but you'd think that would be a buzzkill.
I hated misty. What kind of a bitch wants nothing to do with her unborn child, maybe your parents aren't the most supportive people in the world but wow. You can't even hear the heartbeat? I guess it would be harder to give up something you've grown attached to.
Kinleys name is just weird. I feel like Ryan purposefully writes outlandish names just to make people go 'southern? Really?' I have never met anyone names McKinley or Kensington for that matter, actually no Lexingtons either. It's like she's trying to start a fancy aristocracy. I mean they couldn't name her Alexandra or Alexandria and call her Lexi?
I don't know, her books are just too freaking improbable that they come off as ridiculous. I'm not saying something like this couldn't happen, I'm just saying it wouldn't.
Evan was a stand up guy, taking his unborn daughter and making sure she's okay. But if Kinley tells me what a stand up guy he is one more time I'm going to cut her. I get it, he's great, he's hot, can we move on?
I think what bothered me was that we didn't get all that much relationship development, they were already in love with each other when the book started and it was a long ass journey to discovering it.
The whole 'we-have-to-get-married' thing was uncalled for. I get it, the two characters were too idiotic to get together without Mistys parents trying to take Lexi but it wasn't believable. If I were Mistys mom I would feel like somethings up if he got married right after finding out about the custody thing.
Their moments together, the ones that were meant to be sweet, kind of creeped me out. They would be making out a room away from a sleeping baby. Maybe it's just the NORMAL human in me but you'd think that would be a buzzkill.
I hated misty. What kind of a bitch wants nothing to do with her unborn child, maybe your parents aren't the most supportive people in the world but wow. You can't even hear the heartbeat? I guess it would be harder to give up something you've grown attached to.
Kinleys name is just weird. I feel like Ryan purposefully writes outlandish names just to make people go 'southern? Really?' I have never met anyone names McKinley or Kensington for that matter, actually no Lexingtons either. It's like she's trying to start a fancy aristocracy. I mean they couldn't name her Alexandra or Alexandria and call her Lexi?
I don't know, her books are just too freaking improbable that they come off as ridiculous. I'm not saying something like this couldn't happen, I'm just saying it wouldn't.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2020
I really enjoyed this story but it's not like my normal reading. I have to say this first and foremost because most of who follow my reviews are safe readers. This one is NOT considered "safe". Although everyone has their own definition of what "safe" means, my main definition is no others after meeting (for either H/h). In this one, the H, Evan, is the best friend of the h's, McKinley's older brother. They've known each other most of their lives and neither of them are virgins. Actually, in the beginning of this book, the H's current girlfriend is telling him she is pregnant with his kid and she doesn't want it. i probably wouldn't have read this book, but I love Kaylee Ryan's H's. I think she writes some of the best ones I've ever read. And with neither of them virgins, it made me feel better than if the h was a virgin "saving herself" for him while he gets his freak on. Blah. There's no mention of her past and it's only been a couple months for him. I think this story was told wonderfully and by the end of the book, I was completely head over heels for Evan.
-neither virgins (condoms used throughout their relationship)
-dual POV
-no real OW drama, no OM drama
-not insta-love, but builds to the best kind of overwhelming love
-H who cries and is very emotional when h leaves him (GAH! I just love that). These are an emotional bunch of men.
-epilogue 2 years out
I finished the first 3 books in this series and really enjoyed them all. (I know, I know, these books have been out for years and I'm just now reading them) I have to say, these men are an emotional bunch once they realize the h's are the loves of their lives. They are all in, completely and wholly. If you're not a complete safety reader and don't mind a slow burn love story, I'm sure you'll enjoy this one.
-neither virgins (condoms used throughout their relationship)
-dual POV
-no real OW drama, no OM drama
-not insta-love, but builds to the best kind of overwhelming love
-H who cries and is very emotional when h leaves him (GAH! I just love that). These are an emotional bunch of men.
-epilogue 2 years out
I finished the first 3 books in this series and really enjoyed them all. (I know, I know, these books have been out for years and I'm just now reading them) I have to say, these men are an emotional bunch once they realize the h's are the loves of their lives. They are all in, completely and wholly. If you're not a complete safety reader and don't mind a slow burn love story, I'm sure you'll enjoy this one.
December 5, 2015
Five stars just isn't enough.
When someone asks me if I enjoyed this book the only appropriate reply is Does a cat have climbing gear?
I'm a huge Kaylee Ryan fan. All of her books take your breath away and suck you into the story so you feel everything the characters feel. Kaylee has a rare gift that makes you fall in love with her characters and feel their pain,their love,their heartbreak right along with them,and Southern Pleasure is no exception.
This story is about an unconventional family that forms an unbreakable bond when the odds are stacked against them.
It didn't take long before my heart was bursting for Evan and McKinley.
The supporting characters are just as rich and the small southern town was a perfect fit.Kaylee did an amazing job capturing the language and natural feel of what it feels like to live in the south. Including those colorful phrases that only make sense to those of us from the south. I fell ass over tea kettle for this book. It is a definite must read that I will be obnoxiously recommending to everyone.
When someone asks me if I enjoyed this book the only appropriate reply is Does a cat have climbing gear?
I'm a huge Kaylee Ryan fan. All of her books take your breath away and suck you into the story so you feel everything the characters feel. Kaylee has a rare gift that makes you fall in love with her characters and feel their pain,their love,their heartbreak right along with them,and Southern Pleasure is no exception.
This story is about an unconventional family that forms an unbreakable bond when the odds are stacked against them.
It didn't take long before my heart was bursting for Evan and McKinley.
The supporting characters are just as rich and the small southern town was a perfect fit.Kaylee did an amazing job capturing the language and natural feel of what it feels like to live in the south. Including those colorful phrases that only make sense to those of us from the south. I fell ass over tea kettle for this book. It is a definite must read that I will be obnoxiously recommending to everyone.
Read
August 11, 2016I.....I got nothin. I have no idea what to rate this book. This weekend I'll try to make a list of what worked and what didn't. Overall a VERY sweet and safe book...but I admit I got frustrated at times. And there was a "twist" towards the end that was borderline absurd but the worst part is that it was unnecessary. :(
June 27, 2016
RATING: 2.5 Hearts! :)
September 18, 2021
I would have loved to have read a book about a young man who wanted to be a father and a friend stepping in to help and them falling in love, without all the disgusting anti-abortion shit we got here. The book opens up to a 24 year old Misty telling her 24 year old boyfriend Evan that she's pregnant and she's thought it through and she's not ready to be a mother right now and maybe not ever and she has different plans for her life so she's going to get an abortion but she wanted to let him know first. This was perfectly fine for me and good on her for telling him before she did it but I wouldn't have blamed her if she hadn't. Evan does want this baby and asks her to carry the child to full term and sign away her rights to it, she agrees and makes sure he knows that she wants nothing to do with this child once it's born. They both agree to the terms and Evan has his family lawyer draw up the paper work.
When the time to draw the paperwork arrives and Misty once again makes it clear that she wants nothing to do with this child and the moment it's born she's leaving town, Evan turns into a little judgemental bitch and being like "how can she be so indifferent to her own child?" He goes on to tell everyone in his life about how heartless his ex is for not wanting this precious baby and they're all like "guess you never know what people are truly like" and I'm just like fuck all of you. This young woman does not want to be in the situation she is in, but she is carrying a baby she doesn't want to full term which is something that can be very traumatizing to someone, all for you when she didn't have to and you had no way of making her. Rather than being grateful they're all shocked and disgusted at her for not changing her mind. Which begs the question was Evan actually willing to be a single dad or was he hoping to guilt trip Misty into changing her mind?
The bullshit doesn't stop there, there's a conversation between the heroine and her brother who is Evan's best friend where they are talking about what a great guy Evan is for doing this and how selfless he is and how not a lot of guys would be doing what he's doing. First of all, it's perfectly okay if most 24 year old guys feel like they're not ready to be single dads and are supportive of their partners getting an abortion. Second of all, this was Evans choice and what HE wanted, this is the path HE chose to take, no one forced him into this situation so can we stop talking like he's a fucking martyr because there is no right or wrong answer in this situation, it's about what you feel is best for you and what you're ready for. Seriously though Evan would do or say the bare minimum and everyone would be like "oh what an amazing guy he is". At one point he says how he just wants his baby to be born healthy so he's not fussed on the gender, and the heroine starts swooning and wonders how Misty doesn't want this man or doesn't want to raise a family with him. Um maybe it's because her bar isn't on the fucking floor?
The conversation continues to the best friend/brother asking if she would go it alone if she got pregnant and she immediately says yes and how she couldn't imagine getting rid of a baby and doesn't know anyone who would. That part pissed me off and made me want to slap this girl and tell her to get off her high horse. This girl is in a situation where mommy and daddy are very financially stable with their successful farm, and she was sent to collage and got a degree and is setting up a photography studio above daddy's garage so she can control her working hours. Most people don't have half of those privileges or the money or the supports systems that you or your rich girl friends have so have some fucking compassion. The way this book and author was villainizing women who get abortions was disgusting.
I stopped reading when the hero and heroine are having a conversation after a doctors appointment, where the doctor says Misty hasn't put enough weight on and the baby is a little smaller than she should be, and the heroine starts thinking about how much she hates this woman and the hero is ranting about how she's putting his baby in danger. FUCK BOTH OF YOU!!! Have either you wondered if maybe asking this girl to carry a child she doesn't want is taking it toll on her? Have either gone to see her and ask if she's okay or if she needs support? No because you don't see this woman as her own person but as an incubator. Not once do they worry about why she's not eating enough (Evan just throws money at the situation), but instead blame her and hate her. I could not handle this bullshit anymore, at no point was I on these two's side, my heart went out to Misty and all the other women in real life who get put in these situations and then are judged and scorned.
I was going to read the other books in this series but I'm taking them off my TBR because there was so much little shit in this book that bothered me (like the sexualizing of a literal fetus, and the "she eats real food and not salad like other girls" bs), and the writing and dialogue was just not good.
When the time to draw the paperwork arrives and Misty once again makes it clear that she wants nothing to do with this child and the moment it's born she's leaving town, Evan turns into a little judgemental bitch and being like "how can she be so indifferent to her own child?" He goes on to tell everyone in his life about how heartless his ex is for not wanting this precious baby and they're all like "guess you never know what people are truly like" and I'm just like fuck all of you. This young woman does not want to be in the situation she is in, but she is carrying a baby she doesn't want to full term which is something that can be very traumatizing to someone, all for you when she didn't have to and you had no way of making her. Rather than being grateful they're all shocked and disgusted at her for not changing her mind. Which begs the question was Evan actually willing to be a single dad or was he hoping to guilt trip Misty into changing her mind?
The bullshit doesn't stop there, there's a conversation between the heroine and her brother who is Evan's best friend where they are talking about what a great guy Evan is for doing this and how selfless he is and how not a lot of guys would be doing what he's doing. First of all, it's perfectly okay if most 24 year old guys feel like they're not ready to be single dads and are supportive of their partners getting an abortion. Second of all, this was Evans choice and what HE wanted, this is the path HE chose to take, no one forced him into this situation so can we stop talking like he's a fucking martyr because there is no right or wrong answer in this situation, it's about what you feel is best for you and what you're ready for. Seriously though Evan would do or say the bare minimum and everyone would be like "oh what an amazing guy he is". At one point he says how he just wants his baby to be born healthy so he's not fussed on the gender, and the heroine starts swooning and wonders how Misty doesn't want this man or doesn't want to raise a family with him. Um maybe it's because her bar isn't on the fucking floor?
The conversation continues to the best friend/brother asking if she would go it alone if she got pregnant and she immediately says yes and how she couldn't imagine getting rid of a baby and doesn't know anyone who would. That part pissed me off and made me want to slap this girl and tell her to get off her high horse. This girl is in a situation where mommy and daddy are very financially stable with their successful farm, and she was sent to collage and got a degree and is setting up a photography studio above daddy's garage so she can control her working hours. Most people don't have half of those privileges or the money or the supports systems that you or your rich girl friends have so have some fucking compassion. The way this book and author was villainizing women who get abortions was disgusting.
I stopped reading when the hero and heroine are having a conversation after a doctors appointment, where the doctor says Misty hasn't put enough weight on and the baby is a little smaller than she should be, and the heroine starts thinking about how much she hates this woman and the hero is ranting about how she's putting his baby in danger. FUCK BOTH OF YOU!!! Have either you wondered if maybe asking this girl to carry a child she doesn't want is taking it toll on her? Have either gone to see her and ask if she's okay or if she needs support? No because you don't see this woman as her own person but as an incubator. Not once do they worry about why she's not eating enough (Evan just throws money at the situation), but instead blame her and hate her. I could not handle this bullshit anymore, at no point was I on these two's side, my heart went out to Misty and all the other women in real life who get put in these situations and then are judged and scorned.
I was going to read the other books in this series but I'm taking them off my TBR because there was so much little shit in this book that bothered me (like the sexualizing of a literal fetus, and the "she eats real food and not salad like other girls" bs), and the writing and dialogue was just not good.
November 9, 2017
I think I got a cavity.
May 3, 2018
Oh my heart exploded in this book! This is a single dad romance and the way he fought to protect his unborn child was absolutely heart warming. I went through so many emotions during this book between complete disdain for the mom, swoon for the dad and Lexi stepping up to help and putting everything aside to help.
I actually listened to this through my audible account and it is a great listen as well as a great read!
I actually listened to this through my audible account and it is a great listen as well as a great read!
December 18, 2015
☆ I received an ARC via Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
Sometimes love comes in the most unassuming forms.
I really loved this read. It was heart-rendering and touching, and makes you realize the sensational power of love and its no holds barred nature.
Evan. Is there any word to really describe this wonderful, amazing, and courageous man? Fatherhood is a big step to take on, and he does it with stride. But what parent, doesn’t need a little help?
They say it takes a village to raise a child, and Evan does not escape that quota. While he does some support, a child needs a mother, and with Evan’s ex out of the picture--in comes Evan’s bestie’s little sister—one of whom has always noticed Evan, but the same has not been reciprocated on the other end. Until now…
Will there be a second chance at love?
And when Evan’s ex’s folks causing a stir and try to take the one life that brought light and love to Evan, will he be able to hold onto Mckinley and his baby girl?
A beautiful tale of love, family, friendship and the unforeseen yet beautiful obstacles that life throws at you.
Each character, both main and secondary, played an important instrument throughout bringing this story to life.
There was a lot of stepping up and growing up, finding & rediscovering yourself, as well as, sacrifice for all parties involved. I really admired themes such as this, as it strikes home and is very universal to all who have families, particularly children.
It’s a bunch of soul searching and digging deep, but, a life changing and gratifying one at that.
Great book!
Sometimes love comes in the most unassuming forms.
I really loved this read. It was heart-rendering and touching, and makes you realize the sensational power of love and its no holds barred nature.
Evan. Is there any word to really describe this wonderful, amazing, and courageous man? Fatherhood is a big step to take on, and he does it with stride. But what parent, doesn’t need a little help?
They say it takes a village to raise a child, and Evan does not escape that quota. While he does some support, a child needs a mother, and with Evan’s ex out of the picture--in comes Evan’s bestie’s little sister—one of whom has always noticed Evan, but the same has not been reciprocated on the other end. Until now…
Will there be a second chance at love?
And when Evan’s ex’s folks causing a stir and try to take the one life that brought light and love to Evan, will he be able to hold onto Mckinley and his baby girl?
A beautiful tale of love, family, friendship and the unforeseen yet beautiful obstacles that life throws at you.
Each character, both main and secondary, played an important instrument throughout bringing this story to life.
There was a lot of stepping up and growing up, finding & rediscovering yourself, as well as, sacrifice for all parties involved. I really admired themes such as this, as it strikes home and is very universal to all who have families, particularly children.
It’s a bunch of soul searching and digging deep, but, a life changing and gratifying one at that.
Great book!
March 30, 2016
I wish I could tell you how much I loved this book and I really did but my phone thought it would be funny to eat all the reviews I wrote in it while I had no internet so now I just have to say go read this book. Seriously awesome.
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