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Mercury Rising #3
Cherry Pop
It was supposed to be for fun, but his kiss said forever…
Ben Heston followed his job from California to Mercury, North Carolina after his boss fell head over heels, crazy in love. Ben welcomes the change at first, still reeling from a bad breakup. The move is meant to be temporary. That is, until he meets Tripp Lanier.
Tripp was born and raised in Mercury. His family owns a local construction business and he’s next in line to take over. But as much as he loves his family and his job and his little hometown, there’s something missing in his life. When he meets Ben, he realizes what that something is.
Tripp is ready to embrace his newfound sexuality with the object of his desire. Ben, not so much, because he doesn’t believe Tripp is really gay. But Ben can’t resist the chemistry that explodes between them when they’re together.
Ben begins to love all the things Tripp loves about Mercury: night trains and tall trees, family, friends and sweet Cherry pop. Just when Ben begins to think he might be Tripp’s Mr. Right his past comes calling and old hurts and new fears might be the one thing that could keep them apart.
Warning: Contains Good Old Boys, NASCAR references, a reluctant computer programmer, an enthusiastic gay virgin and gallons of sweet cherry pop. 9 out of 10 dentists agree it could be dangerously romantic.
Ben Heston followed his job from California to Mercury, North Carolina after his boss fell head over heels, crazy in love. Ben welcomes the change at first, still reeling from a bad breakup. The move is meant to be temporary. That is, until he meets Tripp Lanier.
Tripp was born and raised in Mercury. His family owns a local construction business and he’s next in line to take over. But as much as he loves his family and his job and his little hometown, there’s something missing in his life. When he meets Ben, he realizes what that something is.
Tripp is ready to embrace his newfound sexuality with the object of his desire. Ben, not so much, because he doesn’t believe Tripp is really gay. But Ben can’t resist the chemistry that explodes between them when they’re together.
Ben begins to love all the things Tripp loves about Mercury: night trains and tall trees, family, friends and sweet Cherry pop. Just when Ben begins to think he might be Tripp’s Mr. Right his past comes calling and old hurts and new fears might be the one thing that could keep them apart.
Warning: Contains Good Old Boys, NASCAR references, a reluctant computer programmer, an enthusiastic gay virgin and gallons of sweet cherry pop. 9 out of 10 dentists agree it could be dangerously romantic.
225 pages, ebook
First published April 19, 2016
13 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Kane
54 books769 followersSamantha Kane lives in North Carolina with her husband and three children, two boys and one girl. With a master’s degree in American history, she spent seven years as a high school history teacher before becoming a full-time writer and mom.
Series:
THE BIRMINGHAM REBELS
BROTHERS IN ARMS
THE SAINT'S DEVILS
THE 93RD HIGHLANDERS
MERCURY RISING
Series:
THE BIRMINGHAM REBELS
BROTHERS IN ARMS
THE SAINT'S DEVILS
THE 93RD HIGHLANDERS
MERCURY RISING
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 22, 2016
This story fell flat for me. I loved Tripp but never warmed to Ben.
Tripp knows what he wants and goes after it. He's open, accepting, and sweet. He falls for Ben and doesn't stress about his new-found sexuality.
Ben plays the martyr and pushes his own insecurities on Tripp. I resented Ben telling Tripp he wasn't gay, like Tripp doesn't know his own mind. He completely discounts Tripp's feelings.
And Tripp never really stands up for himself, never makes Ben beg.
The small town gossip wore me down, and I became more irritated with the self-deprecating gay jokes as the story progressed.
I liked Tripp's parents and friends, especially Carver, and it was fun seeing Mercury turn into a gay Mecca, even if that happening in a small Southern town is highly improbable.
Sadly, the steam was almost nonexistent which was a serious downer considering the slow buildup and Tripp's sexual enthusiasm. I wasn't feeling the passion.
This is a cute story and an easy read, but I'm not sure I'll continue with the series.
Tripp knows what he wants and goes after it. He's open, accepting, and sweet. He falls for Ben and doesn't stress about his new-found sexuality.
Ben plays the martyr and pushes his own insecurities on Tripp. I resented Ben telling Tripp he wasn't gay, like Tripp doesn't know his own mind. He completely discounts Tripp's feelings.
And Tripp never really stands up for himself, never makes Ben beg.
The small town gossip wore me down, and I became more irritated with the self-deprecating gay jokes as the story progressed.
I liked Tripp's parents and friends, especially Carver, and it was fun seeing Mercury turn into a gay Mecca, even if that happening in a small Southern town is highly improbable.
Sadly, the steam was almost nonexistent which was a serious downer considering the slow buildup and Tripp's sexual enthusiasm. I wasn't feeling the passion.
This is a cute story and an easy read, but I'm not sure I'll continue with the series.
March 14, 2017
2.5 Stars
I quite enjoyed the first two books in this series, and I really enjoy this author's writing (most of the time) so even though it took me a good year to read this one, I looked forward to it. Cherry Pop didn't much work for me, though.
I liked Tripp. He was a happy guy and I loved how he just embraced it when he discovered something new about himself. No internal angst, he just went with it full speed ahead. What I didn't like, though, was that he let Ben walk all over him. Repeatedly. I really thought he deserved better than to let Ben dictate all of what their relationship would be. Also, Tripp kind of latched onto Ben, and was much like a puppy begging for attention. There was no build up at all, when it came to Tripp's feelings for Ben, and I found I missed that.
Ben though....I didn't much like him at all. I get that he got burnt pretty bad by his last boyfriend. He wasn't treated well and he put up with it until the guy finally dumped him (8 years later). His boyfriend had isolated him and treated him like a dirty secret and was jealous of everyone. So what does he do? He treats Tripp like a dirty secret and treats him like crap. And I really didn't like it when he presumed to tell Tripp what he (Tripp) felt or thought. It isn't up to Ben to decide if Tripp is gay or not. It's ok to not want to be someone's experiment, but beyond that, no. Ben projected his own issues onto Tripp and was an asshole to Tripp and he kept that up for far longer than my patience will put up with.
So, Cherry Pop was not really to my liking. And no matter how much I loved the first two books in this series, I just couldn't deal with all the fuckery in this one.
I quite enjoyed the first two books in this series, and I really enjoy this author's writing (most of the time) so even though it took me a good year to read this one, I looked forward to it. Cherry Pop didn't much work for me, though.
I liked Tripp. He was a happy guy and I loved how he just embraced it when he discovered something new about himself. No internal angst, he just went with it full speed ahead. What I didn't like, though, was that he let Ben walk all over him. Repeatedly. I really thought he deserved better than to let Ben dictate all of what their relationship would be. Also, Tripp kind of latched onto Ben, and was much like a puppy begging for attention. There was no build up at all, when it came to Tripp's feelings for Ben, and I found I missed that.
Ben though....I didn't much like him at all. I get that he got burnt pretty bad by his last boyfriend. He wasn't treated well and he put up with it until the guy finally dumped him (8 years later). His boyfriend had isolated him and treated him like a dirty secret and was jealous of everyone. So what does he do? He treats Tripp like a dirty secret and treats him like crap. And I really didn't like it when he presumed to tell Tripp what he (Tripp) felt or thought. It isn't up to Ben to decide if Tripp is gay or not. It's ok to not want to be someone's experiment, but beyond that, no. Ben projected his own issues onto Tripp and was an asshole to Tripp and he kept that up for far longer than my patience will put up with.
So, Cherry Pop was not really to my liking. And no matter how much I loved the first two books in this series, I just couldn't deal with all the fuckery in this one.
April 26, 2016
3.5 stars
Ben Heston (no relation to Charlton Heston *lol*) is 'dragged' into Mercury because his boss Brian Curland asked him to help set-up the new data center of the company. In the beginning Ben is determined not to fall in love with the small-town's charm -- including in form of born-and-raised young Tripp Lanier. For Ben, he is Los Angeles. He is just waiting to go back to L.A. after finishing his job at Mercury. But Ben slowly realizes that maybe he doesn't really have anything to go back to, and that Mercury is giving him what he has been missing all this time....
I devoured small town romance in MF Contemporary - along with the quirks of the people, even if I know that it might be romanticized for the same of the genre. However, I didn't find it as much in MM romance. Maybe because small towns are usually painted as full of homophobic and bigots, and the gay MCs ended up leaving the small town to flourish in the bigger city.
So I truly welcome what Mercury, North Carolina offers in this series. Here's a small town that ends up attracting the rich men from the big cities. I LOVED Tripp's family and friends -- Tripp's parents are the best! I loved the gossipy diner, where news came down the vine as quick as the speeding bullet. I loved that people could be nosy about Ben's and Tripp's not-really-boyfriend relationship :)
To be honest, some of the arguments/topic here sounded, well, outdated for someone who have read so many MM romance stories like me. The whole "how do you know you're gay, maybe you just haven't found the right woman yet" or "you have not done anal sex, so you're not gay" or "you're still young, maybe you're still discovering sexuality" yada yada yada.
I can imagine this story might frustrate readers (or at least a couple of my friend), though. But maybe I was in a good mood because I found these discussions between Tripp and his best friend, or Ben's reluctance to define his relationship with Tripp mostly as amusing. Besides, I loved it when the younger man was the one wearing the older man's personal armor down *lol*.
So yeah, bring more stories from Mercury, please. How about Trey the Hollywood hottie with Carver the single Dad?? Because you know, Hollywood Star and a little girl sounds fabulous, right?
Ben Heston (no relation to Charlton Heston *lol*) is 'dragged' into Mercury because his boss Brian Curland asked him to help set-up the new data center of the company. In the beginning Ben is determined not to fall in love with the small-town's charm -- including in form of born-and-raised young Tripp Lanier. For Ben, he is Los Angeles. He is just waiting to go back to L.A. after finishing his job at Mercury. But Ben slowly realizes that maybe he doesn't really have anything to go back to, and that Mercury is giving him what he has been missing all this time....
I devoured small town romance in MF Contemporary - along with the quirks of the people, even if I know that it might be romanticized for the same of the genre. However, I didn't find it as much in MM romance. Maybe because small towns are usually painted as full of homophobic and bigots, and the gay MCs ended up leaving the small town to flourish in the bigger city.
So I truly welcome what Mercury, North Carolina offers in this series. Here's a small town that ends up attracting the rich men from the big cities. I LOVED Tripp's family and friends -- Tripp's parents are the best! I loved the gossipy diner, where news came down the vine as quick as the speeding bullet. I loved that people could be nosy about Ben's and Tripp's not-really-boyfriend relationship :)
To be honest, some of the arguments/topic here sounded, well, outdated for someone who have read so many MM romance stories like me. The whole "how do you know you're gay, maybe you just haven't found the right woman yet" or "you have not done anal sex, so you're not gay" or "you're still young, maybe you're still discovering sexuality" yada yada yada.
I can imagine this story might frustrate readers (or at least a couple of my friend), though. But maybe I was in a good mood because I found these discussions between Tripp and his best friend, or Ben's reluctance to define his relationship with Tripp mostly as amusing. Besides, I loved it when the younger man was the one wearing the older man's personal armor down *lol*.
So yeah, bring more stories from Mercury, please. How about Trey the Hollywood hottie with Carver the single Dad?? Because you know, Hollywood Star and a little girl sounds fabulous, right?
May 7, 2016
This reader experienced the full spectrum of emotions while reading this wonderful read. I do not read many gay romances, but this one takes the cake. Samantha Kane has the ability to draw anyone into her carefully created world and make you want to stay. Great characters, so expertly written.... WONDERFUL
September 2, 2017
I really love this series and I so hope there will be more.
Ben's and Tripp's romance is wonderful. Tripp is steadfast and Ben is adjusting to believing in a happily ever after. They are both great characters and this is a good love story with just enough conflict and a whole lot of I really like you and sexy times.
The small town is still winning as is the circle of friends.
A delight and a comfort read.
Ben's and Tripp's romance is wonderful. Tripp is steadfast and Ben is adjusting to believing in a happily ever after. They are both great characters and this is a good love story with just enough conflict and a whole lot of I really like you and sexy times.
The small town is still winning as is the circle of friends.
A delight and a comfort read.
April 21, 2016
As an employee and friend of Brian Curland, Ben Heston came to Mercury to help get Turnstiles business ventures up and running. Coming out of an 8 year relationship, Ben welcomes the change of scenery. Even though it's just temporary.
Tripp Lanier is a Mercury native helping run his family's construction business. When he meets Ben, he can't explain his instant attraction but he knows he wants to pursue a relationship with him. But Ben thinks this is just a phase for Tripp and that eventually he'll figure that out. Besides, Ben doesn't plan to stay around, does he?
This Mercury series gets better with every book. Ben and Tripp’s story was every bit as wonderful as the others in this series. Ben has just come out of a long relationship with a man 20 years his senior. He was dumped when his boyfriend found someone more appealing. He’s completely out of his element in Mercury where people have names like Junior, drink Cheerwine, and where fishing is a competitive sport. But this town and the people are getting to him. Especially Tripp, who unashamedly accepts his attraction to and feelings for Ben. But Tripp reminds Ben of himself 8 years ago. He doesn’t want to see Tripp end up hurt like he was. And what about his plans for LA? A relationship with Tripp has too many strings attached. But as Tripp so eloquently put it, “maybe those strings don’t drag you back, but anchor you”.
As with all the books in this series, Cherry Pop is full of romance, humor, and real characters. There were several funny moments throughout. Tripp’s friend Luke was absolutely hysterical with his thoughts on being gay. I couldn’t stop laughing when he demanded that Tripp become “ungayed”.
In addition to the humor, there is some really thought provoking dialogue as well. The characters in this series say such profound things. I think Samantha Kane needs to moonlight as a motivational speaker or self -help author! But seriously, I love the dialogue in this whole series. It really helps you get to know the characters on a deeper level. Samantha Kane has such a talent for crafting compelling characters through their thoughts and conversations.
And lastly, the romance. Watching Ben and Tripp’s relationship evolve was wonderful. I loved that they really got to know one another and form a bond instead of just jumping into the physical. Of course, when they did get to the physical, it was STEAMY!!!!!!!
While Cherry Pop can be read as a stand- alone, I suggest starting this series from the beginning. You really don’t want to miss out on meeting all the people in the town of Mercury. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.
Tripp Lanier is a Mercury native helping run his family's construction business. When he meets Ben, he can't explain his instant attraction but he knows he wants to pursue a relationship with him. But Ben thinks this is just a phase for Tripp and that eventually he'll figure that out. Besides, Ben doesn't plan to stay around, does he?
This Mercury series gets better with every book. Ben and Tripp’s story was every bit as wonderful as the others in this series. Ben has just come out of a long relationship with a man 20 years his senior. He was dumped when his boyfriend found someone more appealing. He’s completely out of his element in Mercury where people have names like Junior, drink Cheerwine, and where fishing is a competitive sport. But this town and the people are getting to him. Especially Tripp, who unashamedly accepts his attraction to and feelings for Ben. But Tripp reminds Ben of himself 8 years ago. He doesn’t want to see Tripp end up hurt like he was. And what about his plans for LA? A relationship with Tripp has too many strings attached. But as Tripp so eloquently put it, “maybe those strings don’t drag you back, but anchor you”.
As with all the books in this series, Cherry Pop is full of romance, humor, and real characters. There were several funny moments throughout. Tripp’s friend Luke was absolutely hysterical with his thoughts on being gay. I couldn’t stop laughing when he demanded that Tripp become “ungayed”.
In addition to the humor, there is some really thought provoking dialogue as well. The characters in this series say such profound things. I think Samantha Kane needs to moonlight as a motivational speaker or self -help author! But seriously, I love the dialogue in this whole series. It really helps you get to know the characters on a deeper level. Samantha Kane has such a talent for crafting compelling characters through their thoughts and conversations.
And lastly, the romance. Watching Ben and Tripp’s relationship evolve was wonderful. I loved that they really got to know one another and form a bond instead of just jumping into the physical. Of course, when they did get to the physical, it was STEAMY!!!!!!!
While Cherry Pop can be read as a stand- alone, I suggest starting this series from the beginning. You really don’t want to miss out on meeting all the people in the town of Mercury. A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.
dnf
May 21, 2016Found it on amazon:)
Imagine I really waited to read this book! For me it was such a let down, I had to DNF. Sadly:(
Made it up to 14% - with a long break in between - but couldn't take anymore. It was just too much, way OTT of all the ' oh you are gay - great, now where's the next gay guy to match you with', all that 'I don't date - but you could be a nice candidate, well, no, I don't date' and all this 'Tripp is a great guy, sadly - not gay'.
Well, it got on my nerves and I couldn't take any more. Sorry, book, totally me and most probably not you.
Imagine I really waited to read this book! For me it was such a let down, I had to DNF. Sadly:(
Made it up to 14% - with a long break in between - but couldn't take anymore. It was just too much, way OTT of all the ' oh you are gay - great, now where's the next gay guy to match you with', all that 'I don't date - but you could be a nice candidate, well, no, I don't date' and all this 'Tripp is a great guy, sadly - not gay'.
Well, it got on my nerves and I couldn't take any more. Sorry, book, totally me and most probably not you.
May 14, 2016
I loved this book. I really liked Bens's character from the last book but Tripp and his friends and family made this book. Some of the conversation between Tripp and his friend Luke were hilarious. This book had just about everything a book should have. Hot sexy time, great emotional conflict and some of the best dialogue.
Tripp knew the minute he saw Ben he was the one. Ben, well he was afraid of the feelings he had and knew they couldn't be true. Samantha Kane brings in such a good issue in this book and it's really something to think about. Emotions run high in this book but the relationships and chemistry and banter balance it out. I highly recommend this series.
*Book Obsessed Chicks Review team
Tripp knew the minute he saw Ben he was the one. Ben, well he was afraid of the feelings he had and knew they couldn't be true. Samantha Kane brings in such a good issue in this book and it's really something to think about. Emotions run high in this book but the relationships and chemistry and banter balance it out. I highly recommend this series.
*Book Obsessed Chicks Review team
June 25, 2018
I have a ridiculous number of books that I am currently reading but THIS is LIVE sooooooooo now I'm reading Cherry Pop!!
This was ..... unexpected
This was ..... unexpected
April 22, 2016
Laugh out loud story that could quite possibly make you gay.
This is one of those books that will have you giggling, swooning, and moaning throughout the whole thing.
Be prepared for bicycle rides, boats, and relays....♡
This is one of those books that will have you giggling, swooning, and moaning throughout the whole thing.
Be prepared for bicycle rides, boats, and relays....♡
April 27, 2016
3.5 stars
Nice fluffy piece boosted up half star for being funny. Think of this book as a romantic comedy.
Nice fluffy piece boosted up half star for being funny. Think of this book as a romantic comedy.
May 3, 2016
I finished this in about 8 hours. I loved it! Ben was a little frustrating but you could understand why. Tripp was wonderful. I hope the next book will center around Trey & Carver.
June 17, 2018
Samantha Kane's Mercury Rising series has been such a fun read. Small town romances are always enjoyable. Mercury North Carolina happens to be one of those small towns where everyone knows what's going on in your life before you know about it yourself.
The Turnstiles project has brought in a bunch of new people to Mercury. One of those is Ben Heston. He has found himself away from LA for the first time in his life. Ben is in Mercury for his job with plans to return home as soon as the job is over. He is not looking for love, fix ups, dating, nothing of that sort. Ben's here for the paycheck with plans to return home. The chance for a new friend with similar outdoor activity interests is too good to be true and something he can't pass up.
Tripp is a trip! He was the character that really made this book pop. He's a country boy. His friend's are those good ole southern boys. Lot's of redneck happening here. It wasn't overdone or cliched. Kane made it fun. I wasn't sure where Tripp was with his sexuality. I guessed for a while whether Cherry Pop was going to be gay for you or someone coming out to the closet for love. The friends to lovers aspect really worked for me here.
I think Cherry Pop easily works as a stand alone. I do believe that after you read this one you'll want to know more about John and Connor, and Brian and Evan.
The Turnstiles project has brought in a bunch of new people to Mercury. One of those is Ben Heston. He has found himself away from LA for the first time in his life. Ben is in Mercury for his job with plans to return home as soon as the job is over. He is not looking for love, fix ups, dating, nothing of that sort. Ben's here for the paycheck with plans to return home. The chance for a new friend with similar outdoor activity interests is too good to be true and something he can't pass up.
Tripp is a trip! He was the character that really made this book pop. He's a country boy. His friend's are those good ole southern boys. Lot's of redneck happening here. It wasn't overdone or cliched. Kane made it fun. I wasn't sure where Tripp was with his sexuality. I guessed for a while whether Cherry Pop was going to be gay for you or someone coming out to the closet for love. The friends to lovers aspect really worked for me here.
I think Cherry Pop easily works as a stand alone. I do believe that after you read this one you'll want to know more about John and Connor, and Brian and Evan.
May 4, 2016
I really wanted to find a reason to give this two and a half or three stars, but I just couldn't. I really liked the first two books, so I was surprised that this was a major fail for me. I could not like Ben's character until maybe the epilogue. Tripp was sometimes a cute character but he was just too silly at times, in spite of the fact his head was screwed on better than Ben's.
Ben's character was annoying and repetitive through nearly the entire story. He was dismissive and rude to Tripp and to his own friends. Tripp seemed to spend no time considering or contemplating the fact he had feelings for Ben, just decided almost overnight and announced he was gay immediately, along with saying he was dating Ben. Ben had emphatically denied they were going to date, so that seemed childish and presumptuous. Tripp had endless repetitive conversations with people about being gay, acting gay, gay activities, to the point it seemed offensive. He wasn't the only one talking the same way, including the other gay men in the book. Tripp and Ben were barely physical and when they finally got together at 91%, I'd already lost interest.
I struggled to read this through, nearly giving up. I kept stopping and allowing myself to be distracted because my attention was lost by 47%. Some scenes had a little humor, but honestly, the situations became ridiculous, bordering on slapstick. The small town charm wore off real quick in this one. I'll still read the next book, since the first two were likable and I did enjoy several of the secondary characters.
Ben's character was annoying and repetitive through nearly the entire story. He was dismissive and rude to Tripp and to his own friends. Tripp seemed to spend no time considering or contemplating the fact he had feelings for Ben, just decided almost overnight and announced he was gay immediately, along with saying he was dating Ben. Ben had emphatically denied they were going to date, so that seemed childish and presumptuous. Tripp had endless repetitive conversations with people about being gay, acting gay, gay activities, to the point it seemed offensive. He wasn't the only one talking the same way, including the other gay men in the book. Tripp and Ben were barely physical and when they finally got together at 91%, I'd already lost interest.
I struggled to read this through, nearly giving up. I kept stopping and allowing myself to be distracted because my attention was lost by 47%. Some scenes had a little humor, but honestly, the situations became ridiculous, bordering on slapstick. The small town charm wore off real quick in this one. I'll still read the next book, since the first two were likable and I did enjoy several of the secondary characters.
May 9, 2016
Grab a cherry pop and be prepared to not leave your seat with book three, Cherry Pop, in Samantha Kane’s Mercury Rising series! There is a new romance budding in Mercury, North Carolina and pretty much everyone in town has something to say about it! Right from the get-go this story took off with its southern charm and fabulous writing. The sweet and sexy attraction between Ben and Tripp was organic and accompanied by lots of contented sighs and genuine laughs. Readers will fall in love right along with the heroes of this book as Ms. Kane works her storytelling magic to produce another page turning and heart flipping installment in this fabulous series!
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*
*A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*
*A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.*
June 1, 2016
This was really good... except for everyone in the damn town acting like gossipy fools, and constantly asking if it was a "gay thing". I liked the MC's plenty. Just the towns people annoyed me to no end. That and the fact that they were never really put in their place for being so freaking offensive. I know they had their hearts in the right place, but there is only so much of that I can take.
May 14, 2016
Cherry Pop is a sexy sweet M/M romance that will have its readers cheering in the end. This is book #3 of the Mercury Rising series and I want more. (hint...hint)
Read More. . . http://www.romanceswithalittlekick.co...
Read More. . . http://www.romanceswithalittlekick.co...
May 7, 2016
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. I sat down to read it and finished it in one sitting. These characters just jumped off the page and ran me through a whirlwind. I love it!!!
February 6, 2022
The last book in the series (unless a certain someone and someone will get their book) was good, though I would agree I liked the others more.
I... made the mistake of reading some negative reviews before diving into the story and have been watching out for their words to come true, but, fortunately (?) I didn't have a problem with what they described - I had a problem with other things, somewhat connected to the problem.
Basically, it was a bit of an insta love. Not the crazy 'first glance' one, more along the lines of... 'marrying after knowing each other two months' which didn't happen here, but the feeling was here. Funny thing, looking back, the other two books were pretty... they definitely had a quick connection, but it was only here, with Ben protesting so much, that you can notice.
I didn't mind that much Ben doubting he knows his own mind and sexuality, it was a weak protest at best and it wasn't the main one, even if he was gay his whole life, I would think Ben would still not jump into love eagerly.
I did mind how... oh, sorry, I can't remember the second MC/love interest name, well, he grew up in a small town and he was always looking for something (like the blurb says) except... love? Are you trying to tell me that after painting a pretty vivid image of all the ways that he wants to experience the world - I am not saying he has to leave forever but Ben has a place in L.A, I could image taking him there or maybe just going for a vacation somewhere exotic... something, give him a taste of something new, I mean but suddenly, oh no, it was just a phrase and phrase, he is okay now that he found love. It felt sickeningly sweet and unreasonable and most of all, silly. Such little thing that could have definitely get incorporated into the story, even just mentioning that they went on a trip... just left the Mercury area for some time, it didn't have to be discarded to prove he loves him.
And I guess I wasn't that happy how their parents had the same issues with love and how the two of them had the same issue and they had the same issues from their parents...
But other than the few points =D I liked it.
I... made the mistake of reading some negative reviews before diving into the story and have been watching out for their words to come true, but, fortunately (?) I didn't have a problem with what they described - I had a problem with other things, somewhat connected to the problem.
Basically, it was a bit of an insta love. Not the crazy 'first glance' one, more along the lines of... 'marrying after knowing each other two months' which didn't happen here, but the feeling was here. Funny thing, looking back, the other two books were pretty... they definitely had a quick connection, but it was only here, with Ben protesting so much, that you can notice.
I didn't mind that much Ben doubting he knows his own mind and sexuality, it was a weak protest at best and it wasn't the main one, even if he was gay his whole life, I would think Ben would still not jump into love eagerly.
I did mind how... oh, sorry, I can't remember the second MC/love interest name, well, he grew up in a small town and he was always looking for something (like the blurb says) except... love? Are you trying to tell me that after painting a pretty vivid image of all the ways that he wants to experience the world - I am not saying he has to leave forever but Ben has a place in L.A, I could image taking him there or maybe just going for a vacation somewhere exotic... something, give him a taste of something new, I mean but suddenly, oh no, it was just a phrase and phrase, he is okay now that he found love. It felt sickeningly sweet and unreasonable and most of all, silly. Such little thing that could have definitely get incorporated into the story, even just mentioning that they went on a trip... just left the Mercury area for some time, it didn't have to be discarded to prove he loves him.
And I guess I wasn't that happy how their parents had the same issues with love and how the two of them had the same issue and they had the same issues from their parents...
But other than the few points =D I liked it.
June 25, 2017
Had my reservations about this. The title alone was juvenile and fairly offensive. I was wrong. This was cute. It was part of a series about a small Southern town, and the intrusive, gossipy, "in-all-yo-b'ness-all-the-damn-time" scenes were truly funny. But there was more though. Love at first sight. Struggling over heartbreak. Taking love slow enough to make it matter. 95% of this was a Hallmark movie (well, if Hallmark aired M/M rom-coms, that is.) One glitch, overall, the love scene. Straight women writing a love scene between two men is hardly ever successful. They're not hot. They're not romantic. They're not even plausible. I can live without all the details, and the dirty talk sounds like 7th-grade boy-band fanfiction or something worse (if possible.) Good, bad, quick read.
January 3, 2017
I absolutely fell in love with Tripp. He knows what he wants and goes after it. Ben really got on my nerves though. A young, hottie like Tripp wants him and he acts like a douche for most of this book. I was also disappointed in the low heat of this book. It could have been so much hotter. I continue to love the people of Mercury. I loved Tripp's friend, Luke. I'm hoping Carver's book is next. Dare I hope that he'll find love with movie star, Trey?
December 30, 2017
All in all not a bad book. I guess I’m just not that into stalkerish behavior. Tripp was too pushy and Ben finally gave in. It just felt weird.
March 24, 2017
Love this one
As much as I adored the first two books this is my favorite in the series. Ben and Tripp cracked me up and made me tear up. Just amazing
As much as I adored the first two books this is my favorite in the series. Ben and Tripp cracked me up and made me tear up. Just amazing
May 22, 2016
I am a huge fan of books by Samantha Kane. I’ve read nearly everything she’s had published. Her characters are fascinating and her story telling is superb. She makes me wish that her fictional towns and characters were real.
Cherry Pop is the third story in the Mercury Rising series. It’s a standalone book but you might enjoy it a little more if you read books one and two first. Characters from those books also make an appearance in this one.
Ben and Tripp hit it off as friends but there’s a spark that bothers Ben. He knows that Tripp is straight but he just can’t seem to help being attracted to him. Ben forces himself to treat Tripp as just a friend even when Tripp seems to be openly flirting with him.
Tripp has never had feelings for a guy before but the things he feels around Ben are different from anything he’s ever felt for a woman. There’s just one problem – Ben won’t acknowledge Tripp’s feelings or admit that he feels something for Tripp; he thinks that Tripp is just playing at being gay. Ben doesn’t want to be an experiment for Tripp.
I loved the first two books in this series but this one is my favorite. There are a lot of humorous passages in this story which is something I don’t remember in other books by Samantha Kane. The added humor is fantastic and just right to help balance out the more serious aspects of Ben and Tripp’s relationship.
This story had me laughing out loud in places to the point that my husband asked me to read to him so he could know what was so funny.
(These quotes are probably funnier when read in context with the rest of the book.)
This takes place in Wren’s diner.
A discussion between Tripp and his dad while driving in a car:
In addition to the humor, Cherry Pop is also a very touching story about Ben, whose first relationship was a disaster, and about Tripp who has never had a serious relationship at all. Tripp just knows that he wants Ben and has a hard time understanding why Ben keeps pushing him away.
I sure hope Ms. Kane has additional stories coming in this series. She has created a wonderful town in North Carolina, with wonderful characters, and I want to visit there again and again.
Cherry Pop is the third story in the Mercury Rising series. It’s a standalone book but you might enjoy it a little more if you read books one and two first. Characters from those books also make an appearance in this one.
Ben and Tripp hit it off as friends but there’s a spark that bothers Ben. He knows that Tripp is straight but he just can’t seem to help being attracted to him. Ben forces himself to treat Tripp as just a friend even when Tripp seems to be openly flirting with him.
Tripp has never had feelings for a guy before but the things he feels around Ben are different from anything he’s ever felt for a woman. There’s just one problem – Ben won’t acknowledge Tripp’s feelings or admit that he feels something for Tripp; he thinks that Tripp is just playing at being gay. Ben doesn’t want to be an experiment for Tripp.
I loved the first two books in this series but this one is my favorite. There are a lot of humorous passages in this story which is something I don’t remember in other books by Samantha Kane. The added humor is fantastic and just right to help balance out the more serious aspects of Ben and Tripp’s relationship.
This story had me laughing out loud in places to the point that my husband asked me to read to him so he could know what was so funny.
(These quotes are probably funnier when read in context with the rest of the book.)
This takes place in Wren’s diner.
“Trey Barlow is here and Tripp Lanier is pitching a gay hissy fit at Wren’s.”
Tripp turned and laid his forehead on the table.
“Now look what you’ve gone and done,” Luke said angrily. “All this gay ain’t good for him. You can’t sling a cat without hitting one of you around here.”
Tripp heard a chair being dragged over to the table and then Trey said, “Oh, are you gay too?” in a flirtatious voice.
“I sure as hell ain’t,” Luke said. “You just keep your gay over there.”
A discussion between Tripp and his dad while driving in a car:
“You and Ben. The gay thing. What’s wrong. You name it,” his dad said, as if they were discussing the weather. “You scared to have gay sex?”
Tripp choked and felt his cheeks grow so hot they must be fire engine red. “No,” he said in a strangled voice.
“I’ve been reading up on anal sex,” he went on. “There are some guidelines to making it good, apparently. You need advice, just ask me.”
“I would like to never hear you say the words ‘anal sex’ again,” Tripp said, feeling a little sick. “Could you promise that, please?”
“Just trying to be supportive,” his dad said, sounding a little hurt. “I figured we never really had the sex talk about girls, so maybe we ought to have one about boys.”
“Oh God, make it stop,” Tripp begged.
In addition to the humor, Cherry Pop is also a very touching story about Ben, whose first relationship was a disaster, and about Tripp who has never had a serious relationship at all. Tripp just knows that he wants Ben and has a hard time understanding why Ben keeps pushing him away.
I sure hope Ms. Kane has additional stories coming in this series. She has created a wonderful town in North Carolina, with wonderful characters, and I want to visit there again and again.
May 11, 2016
Samantha Kane gives us plenty of reasons to get lost in Mercury, NC in this third installment of the Mercury Rising series. This is small town living at its absolute best! Similar to the previous two books, this story features a pairing between a local boy and a transplant from California; while that could become redundant, Kane keeps it fresh by once again writing unique character dynamics and a different angle. In other words, who's in the relationship makes all the difference.
In this case, local boy Tripp Lanier, heir to the Lanier Construction empire, adds a bit of redneck flair and country charm to the situation. Tripp's charming, endearing and, best of all, straight. Or so everyone thinks...but is he? Kane casts just enough shadow of doubt over Tripp to invoke suspicion about just what's going on with our local hero.
A study in contrasts, Tripp befriends Ben Heston, the embodiment of every sexy, tech geek fantasy ever. Ben's just your average guy, working for Turnstiles to help them open the new data and education centers. In addition to being a strictly temporary resident of Mercury, Ben's dragging around a hell of a lot of emotional baggage. He's still suffering the aftermath of a failed eight-year relationship that's pretty much turned him off to any kind of commitment. His outlook on romance is bleak, and he's definitely not open to the possibility of helping his new friend discover his sexuality. Not that he's unsympathetic to Tripp's plight, he'd just rather spare the hurt and heartache.
Tripp and Ben's journey is all about finding yourself. Not that either is truly lost, but they're definitely struggling to acknowledge parts of themselves that could allow them to move forward. Add to that a town full of well meaning, busybody gossips and you've got potential for a lot of complications. Watching them work through it - sometimes in front of God and everyone - is totally worth it.
In this case, local boy Tripp Lanier, heir to the Lanier Construction empire, adds a bit of redneck flair and country charm to the situation. Tripp's charming, endearing and, best of all, straight. Or so everyone thinks...but is he? Kane casts just enough shadow of doubt over Tripp to invoke suspicion about just what's going on with our local hero.
A study in contrasts, Tripp befriends Ben Heston, the embodiment of every sexy, tech geek fantasy ever. Ben's just your average guy, working for Turnstiles to help them open the new data and education centers. In addition to being a strictly temporary resident of Mercury, Ben's dragging around a hell of a lot of emotional baggage. He's still suffering the aftermath of a failed eight-year relationship that's pretty much turned him off to any kind of commitment. His outlook on romance is bleak, and he's definitely not open to the possibility of helping his new friend discover his sexuality. Not that he's unsympathetic to Tripp's plight, he'd just rather spare the hurt and heartache.
Tripp and Ben's journey is all about finding yourself. Not that either is truly lost, but they're definitely struggling to acknowledge parts of themselves that could allow them to move forward. Add to that a town full of well meaning, busybody gossips and you've got potential for a lot of complications. Watching them work through it - sometimes in front of God and everyone - is totally worth it.
March 10, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I don't have much to say about it though haha. I sat down and read it all over the course of a day. Trip knew what he want2d and went for it no matter what Ben and everyone else thought. I love a great HEA story. I hope there are more books in the series! I want to hear more about Trey.
June 30, 2016
4.1 Stars
I loved that Tripp was, truly, just a Good 'Ole Boy - that figured out he was gay...and then went after what he wanted with a dogged single-mindedness. Seriously, that scene when he thought he'd lost out on a chance with Ben? Getting drunk while laying on the hood of his pickup, crying and tossing empty beer cans at Ben's house...OMFG that's so redneck it hurt. It was only missing Patsy Cline's "Crazy" being played on continual repeat.
I don't think I've ever read a book with a character like that. Refreshingly real for a girl who grew up in a similar kind of environment as Mercury. (We were much closer to a "Big" city, though.)
Can't wait to see what's in store for Carver, and maybe Trey. I missed Miss Priss' sass in this installment but we got extra Kari so I'm happy with that. ADORED Luke; it would totally serve him right if he fell for a guy, too. But no, I prefer the clueless but well-intentioned straight boy playing at small town gay advocate.
Don't have (nor have I ever tasted) Cheerwine. I've always been a Coke kind of girl. But I think I might like to find some, eventually. Of course, now I'm craving biscuits. Can't get no good biscuits in the fucking desert...guess I'm gonna have to make 'em myself.
I loved that Tripp was, truly, just a Good 'Ole Boy - that figured out he was gay...and then went after what he wanted with a dogged single-mindedness. Seriously, that scene when he thought he'd lost out on a chance with Ben? Getting drunk while laying on the hood of his pickup, crying and tossing empty beer cans at Ben's house...OMFG that's so redneck it hurt. It was only missing Patsy Cline's "Crazy" being played on continual repeat.
I don't think I've ever read a book with a character like that. Refreshingly real for a girl who grew up in a similar kind of environment as Mercury. (We were much closer to a "Big" city, though.)
Can't wait to see what's in store for Carver, and maybe Trey. I missed Miss Priss' sass in this installment but we got extra Kari so I'm happy with that. ADORED Luke; it would totally serve him right if he fell for a guy, too. But no, I prefer the clueless but well-intentioned straight boy playing at small town gay advocate.
Don't have (nor have I ever tasted) Cheerwine. I've always been a Coke kind of girl. But I think I might like to find some, eventually. Of course, now I'm craving biscuits. Can't get no good biscuits in the fucking desert...guess I'm gonna have to make 'em myself.
May 30, 2016
Third time is a charm!
I love Mercury, North Carolina. Samantha Kane has invented a small southern town with sweet and relatable characters. In this book, Ben is part of the management in Brian's company. Tripp is the good old boy whose family runs the construction firm rebuilding Mercury. Ben has a past with an old lover and Tripp is only 22. Can they find happiness? (Spoiler, it is a romance!
I love Mercury, North Carolina. Samantha Kane has invented a small southern town with sweet and relatable characters. In this book, Ben is part of the management in Brian's company. Tripp is the good old boy whose family runs the construction firm rebuilding Mercury. Ben has a past with an old lover and Tripp is only 22. Can they find happiness? (Spoiler, it is a romance!
April 21, 2016
3.5 stars
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