Silver Lining by J. Lee, is the second book in her Barrelhouse Series. I feel like it can be read as a standalone, since all the characters are well introduced. A silver lining is a hopeful or comforting prospect in the midst of difficulty, and that is what this story is.
We meet Avery Adams, a sweet 19 year old who has been dealt more than anyone can imagine. Even though she lived with her mother and stepdad she had to grow up faster than most kids her age. Her mother didn’t care for her, the only thing she worried about was when she was getting her next fix. She changed men like she changed her underwear, meaning a lot! Avery had to find odd jobs in order to be able to get food and have money to buy a car. It wasn’t the best or the newest, but it got her from point A to point B, or at least sometimes it did.
Then we have Grant Easton, a hard working club owner. He lives with his sister Zaylee and they both are partners in the business. His club is different from the others, it’s not a bar. At the Barrelhouse you can come in for a drink and enjoy some good food and music. It’s not a place to hook up, but one where you can just relax and find yourself, to have a good time. Some people may think that he over works himself but he does it all for the club. It’s been in the family for some time so he only wants to keep it that way.
Both Avery and Grant meet one night when Avery’s car leaves her stranded in the parking lot of the Barrelhouse. Avery has left her home in Las Vegas, in search of a new life. It wasn’t a good one to begin with, so she can only hope it gets better. Man on man, will it get better. Upon meeting Grant, she is given a job, food and a home to live in. While it may seem strange that Grant takes her in so quickly, no questions asked; I can see why he does it. He doesn’t want to put her in anymore danger. Time passes and they both can’t deny the feelings they have for each other. While Avery is more than ready to see where it goes, Grant is afraid to start a relationship with her since she is so young. Not only that but the fact that she works for him, if things don’t go as planned her doesn’t want her to feel like she has to leave.
So the big question here is will Grant get his head out of his behind and finally make a move or will he let Avery go? I’m hopeful that there will be a happy ending for the both of them. Grant might just be that silver lining in Avery’s life.
Well done Ms. Lee. 5 stars!!!