Heart on the Run

Hearts of Parkerburg #2

by Havan Fellows, Lee Brazil

Charles Darwin Millsworth, Chaz to one and all since infancy, has no wish to live up to the grandeur of his name. Fortunately, his Southern belle mama isn’t at all inclined to push her son into a career that won’t make him happy. She thinks he needs to loosen up and enjoy life. After all, that’s the whole point of being independently wealthy, isn’t it?

Chaz can see her point, but his father died in his forties as did his father before him. As far as Chaz is concerned, he has limited time on this earth to make his dreams come true. And he refuses to leave anyone weeping over a wasted life.

Sprocket Moretti is a simple guy. He loves his job, enjoys college, lives in his beloved childhood home—why worry about the little things when the big stuff looks so good. Unfortunately, one of the little things he tries not to stress over is a broken friendship with a very hot and bewildering sous chef. They were pals, hung out and had fun. But one night they stepped over that invisible line, and the next morning Chaz kicked Sprocket out of his bed and his life.

Now, no matter how much Sprocket tries to charm Chaz, the guy has no desire to return to their pre-sex playful bantering ways. And if Sprocket stays true to his motto, this little thing—Chaz—should be written off and never worried about again.

If Sprocket had known one night of reality-altering orgasms would endanger their easygoing friendship… How do you finish that sentence when all your mind wants is its friend back and all your body wants is another taste?

The Hearts of Parkerburg stories can be read as standalones, each with a HEA…but trust me, you'll want to read about all the sweet happenings in this quaint little town.

Christmas in His Heart - Dermot & Xander's story
Heart on the Run - Chaz & Sprocket's story
Fire of the Heart – Craig & Melrose’s story

Genres: M M Romance, Christmas, Romance, Holiday

Unknown Binding

First published November 14, 2015

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I’m a big old sucker for the Merry Jizzmas stories and I loved the first Parkersburg story that came out last year, Christmas in His Heart. Heart on the Run is set in the same small charming town of Parkersburg and the characters from Christmas in His Heart make a return in this one. But, the authors do a good job of giving you just enough info about them without being too much to make it confusing so you can read this one as a standalone.

I love the town of Parkersburg and it’s the kind of place you want to spend a weekend wandering around just soaking up all the charm and friendliness. All the characters are so devoted to making Parkersburg THE go to place for the small town experience and that’s one of my favorite aspects of this series. Any time a story can have a set of likable characters with a similar goal of wholesome goodness at Christmastime, I’m happy.

Sprocket was one of those not-so-bad boys that sticks with me. I want to hang out with him and soak up his humor and all around goodness all wrapped up in a tattooed package. My only problem was with Chaz and considering he was the other MC, that was a bummer. He was completely likable, but he was also completely frustrating for me.

Chaz has this fear that he has a short lifespan. He’s lost immediate family members at young ages and he’s convinced he has the same fate. So, rather than leave someone heartbroken with his not-so-certain death he shuts himself off and lives a quiet albeit lonely life. Now, keep in mind, he is perfectly healthy so it’s not like he’s in death’s crosshairs. Chaz and Sprocket were casual friends until they had one “cross the line” moment that killed their friendship. Of course, the sex was ball boggling good and the only reason things changed was because Chaz ran. So, Chaz ran, Sprocket doesn’t do relationships historically so now they are both frustrated and lonely. And that’s how they stayed for the bulk of the story.

The story begins after the “night” so there isn’t a lot of insight into what their friendship was like before. It kind of made it hard for me to wrap my brain around them as friends. I didn’t really get why Sprocket didn’t know about Chaz’s family before if they were such good buddies. Or, why Chaz just didn’t tell Sprocket how he felt. So, it wasn’t like there was the “big misunderstanding” to fuel the story there was just no understanding. I don’t want unnecessary angst to be the reason two people don’t get together, it frustrates me.

At the same time, Sprocket was stubborn and not willing to put his heart out there for no real reason he could see. And I couldn’t really blame him. There was more communication and connection to me between Sprocket and his BFF, Mason, than there was between Sprocket and Chaz. I think I just didn’t get enough of them being honest together to buy into them together completely. But, then the Epilogue and Chaz’s plan for redemption were completely charming and I ate that up like the bestest of Christmas cookies. I needed more of THAT to balance the distance between them throughout the rest of the story. Even if Sprocket was still putting the brakes on their complete HEA, I was still much more optimistic.

You know who I really loved though was Mason. I hope he’s front and center in the next story. He cracked me up with his snarkily charming attitude. I could totally see why he and Sprocket were best friends. I could also see why Chaz had his jealous moments and boundary issues with Mason. Sprocket really should have respected that more. Shame on you Sprocket for that one, I was disappointed in him right then. Anywho, Mason was really kind of a dick to Chaz and I didn’t blame him one bit. He’s protective of his friend and all anyone really knew of Chaz at that time was that he was ditching Sprocket for no real reason. Regardless, I really want someone to come along and get his undivided attention. That would make for a really fun read.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Heart on the Run' is the second book in Havan Fellows and Lee Brazil's Parkerburg series and I was seriously thinking about taking a pass on this one because the first book didn't work out for me, but it's Havan Fellows and Lee Brazil and I like these two authors besides everyone deserves a second chance right? Of course they do.

So I took the leap of faith and me and my credit card did this thing. I was right everyone deserves a second chance. For me 'Heart on the Run' is considerably better than the first book was. Dermot and Xander show up from time to time in this story and yes they're still happily together...well as happy as Dermot can be, which I'm pretty sure when he's with Xander that's a lot happier than most realize. But in book 2 we have Chaz and Sprocket (and yes it's a nickname and it's a Fraggle Rock thing, but we do eventually find out his real name).

Chaz is the sous chef at Alimentaire, Dermot's restaurant and Sprocket is the assistant manager at...you guessed it Craft Time and here it is Christmas time and once again the staff of these two establishments are getting tangled up in romance.

This was a cute light story with strong attraction, miscommunication, personal fears, well meaning but meddlesome friends...oh, and good food, lots of good food and about what happens when you worry about protecting your heart when it doesn't want protecting.

'Heart on the Run' left me smiling and happy that I took a second trip to Parkersburg and while I was reluctant on the first book I would happily suggest this one for anyone wanting a story that's just a light, fun read.

3.5 shining Christmas stars rounded up to 4 here on GR.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was so much fun returning to Parkerburg and Main Street with its Victorian charm and wonderful personalities. I was very happy to catch glimpses of Xander and Dermot as it's always entertaining to see a well liked couple in their happy ever after. Since I was drawn to Chaz, Dermot's sous chef, in the previous installment, I was looking forward to him getting his own happy ever after. Of course, as usual, I'm reading this novella during the wrong season but I'll simply imagine it's fall and the holidays are approaching, and I'm sitting inside with a warm fire and a pumpkin spiced latte.

Chaz is convinced that because his father died young, and his father before him, Chaz will share the same fate. Thus he's determined not to leave anyone who would grieve for him, even though he can't forget the one night he and Sprocket shared, and the friendship they’ve had for so long. Oh Chaz. You have a lot to learn about grieving. Even if you just have friends in your life, or a boss, people will grieve because they knew you and they will miss you.

Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews

[JR · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a romantic story filled with angst, this one's for you. Hard to resist a story when one of the main characters name is Sprocket. A sweet romance

[Veronica of V's Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second-chance romance has a whole lotta feels. It's the second book in the Hearts of Parkerburg series, but can be enjoyed as a standalone.

Chaz is a man who believes he's a ticking time-bomb. Literally. With both his father and grandfather dying young of heart attacks, he doesn't want to burden a lover with his loss. So he mostly lives a half-life, working hard as a sous chef and lamenting his poor judgment.

See, Chaz really liked Sprocket. They work near each other and have a lot of casual contact. It was natural to strike up a friendship. When it moved into the physical, however, Chaz got spooked. His feelings overwhelmed him and he dashed. He has a romantic sense of wanting a serious relationship, but not ever GETTING serious due to his mortality fears.

Sprocket was crushed when Chaz bolted. It's been months since that one night together, and Sprocket's moved on from the sex, but not the emotional loss. Chaz is the only man he's had sex with that hasn't aslo remained a friend. His live-in housemate, Mason, is a perfect example. They've been casual partners since childhood, and that's a bit off-putting for Chaz.

I liked Sprocket, though I thought he was way to casual about a lot of his life. Mason, I kinda wanted to knock out. He's a big distraction, and he definitely inserts his way into situations he should not--and never owns up to that. Chaz is a timid lover, for his "health" reasons. I honestly thought we'd see some consideration about that with either Chaz or Sprocket, but that didn't I know those fears are hard to shake, and expected there to be some actual discussion, and bonding even, about it. Sadly, no. Sprocket and Chaz do get back together, and things are great, until they are suddenly not. Expect Mason to be a part of the problem.

That said, Chaz's pull for Sprocket is strong and when things get dicey, Chaz makes his claim to be a part of Sprocket's life. In a way that was hilariously out-of-place, but considerately managed. As I read that part, I was all: Oh no you didn't! I turned the page and Sprocket was all: Oh no, you didn't; so I felt completely justified. That said, the ending is sweet and feel-good. We have a young couple, beginning again (third time's the charm, peeps!) with honest communication and a goal to work on their relationship. If only we could get Mason to move on/out...

[Natosha Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart on the Run is my favorite in the series so far. I loved book one, but book two surpassed book one.

This book still has the Characters from book one in it but it is primarily focused on Chaz and Sprocket.

Chaz is a chef in the making. He is closely guarded where his feelings are concerned because he is worried about the what ifs of the future.

Sprocket is a funny, tatted, pierced, want a b playboy who has a best friend and roommate,Mason.

These two are unlikely pair but their chemistry with one another is off the charts. The two cannot seem to keep their hands and other parts of their bodies off of one another.

Chaz tries to not let Sprocket get to close but it is a futal fight and Sprocket is just along for the ride.

I really enjoyed the easy partnership and friendship between these two even though they do whatever they can think of to try to push one another away. As I said CHEMISTRY.

Then there is Mason.....all I can say is hilarious. Loved me some Mason. He is a total trip in his own and then you put him with sprocket and Chaz and they make the book.

Would definitely recommend this book for others to read

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book but i can't put my finger on it. It felt like something was missing. I'm glad to see Chaz got his sorry and his man though.

[Cathy Brockman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart on the Run is a very fun romance. I love Lee Brazil and Haven Fellows. Though most of their stories are short, I liked that this was longer. There are a lot of awesome characters in this story, and the setting is a big part of the story as well. I loved the quaint town and how everyone knows everyone. I wish these towns existed.
This is book two in Hearts of Parkerburg. It stands alone fine as the people in town is what the series is about. If you read the first book, you will know the other characters and stuff mentioned and it’s good as well.
Back to this one. I adored Chaz. He is sweet and has a goal for his life. Even though he is from a wealthy family and doesn’t have to work, he went to culinary school, and his dream is to have a restaurant of his home someday. He often thought about what his mom might say in many circumstances, and this was in italics, so it was clear it was thought, but I am not sure how I felt about it. It wasn’t confusing the story or anything it was just that some of them was a bit odd for me. That’s a personal opinion. I will admit some did make me laugh.
Sprocket was a fun character. His description showed us how fun he would be. I did feel sorry for him and liked how he tried so hard to still be friends with Chaz after Chaz’s first run. Then there is Mason. I adored Mason. He is so funny, and I liked how he was so protective of Sprocket and there seemed to be more there at least on his side. ( hope the next book is his.)
The story is fast paced, and I didn’t want to put it down. It is heartwarming, fun and I was shocked by a couple twists. I will admit I thought it a predictable romance and was in for a big surprise! I can’t say more without a spoiler. I will say this is an excellent romance and fun book and a great holiday or anytime read!
If you like sexy tattooed men, hot chefs, best friends, hot romances with a twist, a holiday story and an allover fantastic read, this is for you! *points to buy link*
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

[Mari Cardenas · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** ARC provided to Bayou Book Junkie in exchange for a fair and honest review.***

Chaz and Sprocket were friends until a fateful night when they crossed the line and rocked each other's world. Chaz ran away after it happened though and cut all ties with Sprocket, even if they continue working and seeing each other from afar. Sprocket had no clue what happened and Chaz wasn't willing to volunteer that he has a death sentence hanging over his head or at least that's how he sees it since his father and grandfather died in their forties.

Having to work together to organize a party for Alimentaire (the restaurant Chaz works in) and Craft Time (the craft shop where Sprocket works), makes them grow closer again and inevitably fall into bed. This time Chaz is determined to make it work, but there are more things than just his penchant for running away when things aren't what he expects them to be going against them.

I loved Chaz, he was such a lovely character. Kind of shy, but determined to make things right after running away the first time. I was on the fence regarding Sprocket a lot of the book, because I felt Chaz was the one giving more in this relationship. Even with Mason, Sprocket's best friend, he couldn't see Chaz's point until later in the story and I just wanted to shake him a bit and make him see what a good thing he could have if he stopped hiding. Once he did, though, he grew up on me, and I ended up rooting for them to get their (hopefully) HEA.

All in all, it was a very good collaboration, the writing flows well and it's a fast, interesting read, filled with great characters and some twists that kept me at the edge of my seat. Very recommendable!

Rating: 4.5 Stars!!

[Becky Condit · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sequel to Christmas in His Heart is sweet with just enough angst to keep you interested, because everything doesn’t always go to plan. We’re still in the same small-town setting of the first book and even centered around the restaurant and craft store. The main characters this time are Sprocket, manager of the craft store, and Chaz, a young chef working as a prep chef at Dermot’s restaurant. Chaz’s dream is to get enough experience to open his own restaurant someday and Sprocket … well, Sprocket doesn’t really know what he wants, except that he wants Chaz.

Sprocket and Chaz go back and forth between being friends, friends with benefits, lovers and strangers, mostly through misunderstandings and poor communication. Their friends don’t know whether to encourage them as a couple or beg them to break up and move on.

This is a great friends-to-lovers trope, and it doesn’t go any smoother than it should. Sometimes they barge ahead, sometimes they back off too much and too often, but they never forget about how much each means to the other. I’m not sure whether to call the ending a Happy For Now or Happy Ever After, but my romantic heart wants it to be an HEA, and I think that’s accurate.

There is a bad guy who comes on the scene late in the book and almost ruins everything. I would love to see him redeemed later in the series but don’t know if that is possible. I have a soft heart.

This is a great pair of books to read for the holidays. Both will soothe your holiday romantic soul. However, either can be read as a stand-alone story, so it’s the reader’s choice. At the end of each of them you will hear holiday bells ringing and have happy thoughts in your heart.

[Christina Wade · Rating 4 out of 5]

i have to start this review by being completely unfair to both main characters. i completely loved mason - sprocket's roommate - he was my favorite character of the book and i cannot wait to read his story. he absolutely stole the show.

the writing was good as usual for these two and the characters were all entertaining. i'm not sure if i totally liked chaz and sprocket, really until the end of the book. their sexual chemistry was good but neither of them really talked to each other. i completely agree with mason that their 'relationship' was a non-relationship. chaz was so worried about dying young, like his father, grandfather and great-grandfather before him, that he chose not to live. he was so closed off and lonely, i felt sorry for him. sprocket is so full of life and the exact opposite of chaz, he would have been really good for chaz. but neither of them had the balls to talk to the other and they kind of just danced around each other, enjoying the physical but never really connecting emotionally. it wasn't until they finally talked to each other - after chaz dropped a bit of a bomb - at around 85% of the book that they actually connected and then they made sense and were really going to be good for each other. i almost wish there was more to the story after that point.

as i said above, if mason's story is next it should be outstanding and i'm anxious to read that.

[Molly Lolly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Original review on Molly Lolly
Four stars!
This was a good story. I liked Chaz and Sproket. They are really good together. I would have liked them to talk a bit more and work out their problems sooner. However, they got their stuff together and talked through their problems to figure out how they’re going to be together for real this time. The story pulled me in and kept my attention until it was done. Again I was enchanted with the lovely Parkerburg and felt like I could go for a visit one day myself and see the places and meet the people. I love the sense of place created in the story.It was nice seeing Xander and Dermot again, even if Dermot is still a tiny bit of a Scrooge. Many of the characters I connected with in the story and hope they get their own happy endings. I hope we get more of this series in the future.

[Melissa Mendoza · Rating 4 out of 5]

“God, the man was beautiful with the bright copper highlights in his auburn hair predominant today, his eyes wide and beseeching, his mouth...f@ck, that perfect mouth…”

4 angsty, crushy stars! This book will have you loving the characters one minute and then wanting to scream at them the next. But I loved it

Chaz and Sprocket, wow where do I begin? They have a tumultuous relationship to say the least. One minute they are with each other and then in the next they are walking away from each other! They both have some many issues to work through both together and separately.

This book had so much heart and I loved getting to know the characters. As much as I loved the angst it got to a little too angsty. I loved the story though, I wouldn’t change anything. It’s a short quick read and totally worth it!!

**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**

[Annamaria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four Amazing Stars! Chaz and Sprocket are two funny, they are both attracted to each other but keep running away from each other. They are perfect together but need to work out their own issues so they can come together. This is a short and quick read. I enjoyed the story and found it to be worth the read.

I received the book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chaz and Sprocket. ....despite running away from each other, then running toward each other, these two have many fears, issues, and things they can not control, blocking what they both love and need......each other!!!!
Loved this story, loved how Chaz and Sprocket are together, sweet, scary, timid, wild, sexy goodness.
loved Mason as well
This was amazing! !!!!!!!!!

[Mary Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to see a second book added to this series, and Lee and Havan didn't disappoint with this new offering. I'm such a sucker for sweet, slightly smooshy, love stories - especially one that has you giggling or wanting to smack a MC upside the head to get them to pull their head out, by turns.

[Katy Beth Mckee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new visit to a special Christmas spot. Poor Chaz is letting fear keep him from loving now. Sprocket after being run out on once is cautious. But it was fun to see the give and take as they both try to figure things out.

[DTM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this...Another great book by these great authors...Sprocket and Chaz were just wonderful together....I don't want to wait another year for another book...Can't we do a summer version?? :)

[Dani Elle Maas · Rating 3 out of 5]

a nice story but i had less connection with it than with the first
still glad i finally got around to reading them though :)