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A Coal Miner's Son
James Callahan is the only son of Nicholas Callahan, owner of the Willow Hollow mine in West Virginia—but he’s never considered himself any better than the miners. He’s best friends with Owain Rees, one of the miners’ kids, and he’s been attracted to Cai, Owain’s older brother, for years. James gets the feeling he might not be the only one sensing the tension between them, but Cai avoids him religiously.
Cai has been working the mine since he was sixteen. He acknowledges James is cute, but he’s grown up privileged while Cai’s family has always been working class, and Cai fears that chasm is too wide to cross. When family drama pushes them together, will Cai and James see they’re more alike than they realized?
Take a leap of faith as two men from different worlds, employer and employee, rich and poor, discover that love transcends social barriers.
States of Stories of romance that span every corner of the United States.
Cai has been working the mine since he was sixteen. He acknowledges James is cute, but he’s grown up privileged while Cai’s family has always been working class, and Cai fears that chasm is too wide to cross. When family drama pushes them together, will Cai and James see they’re more alike than they realized?
Take a leap of faith as two men from different worlds, employer and employee, rich and poor, discover that love transcends social barriers.
States of Stories of romance that span every corner of the United States.
107 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 4, 2017
4 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Chase
161 books892 followersThere is beauty in every kind of love, so why not live a life without boundaries? Experiencing everything the world offers fascinates me and writing about the things that make each of us unique is how I share those insights. I live in the Midwest with a wonderful partner of thirteen years. When not writing, I’m watching movies, reading and living life to the fullest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 5, 2017
This is a second book in the past couple of days where the love interest is the brother of the MC's good friend. Unfortunately, like the other one, I felt that James had more chemistry (and time spent) with Owain (the best friend) rather than Cai (the love interest).
And just like with that other book, I lost interest with the potential relationship. I got bored around 1/3rd of the book and just skimmed the rest *shrugs*
And just like with that other book, I lost interest with the potential relationship. I got bored around 1/3rd of the book and just skimmed the rest *shrugs*
January 9, 2017
4 stars
I'm really enjoying the sense of place from the two states of love stories I've read so far. While I didn't like this as much as Whiskey Business, it was still a nice romance between the wealthy son of a coal mine owner and one of the coal miners.
I'm really enjoying the sense of place from the two states of love stories I've read so far. While I didn't like this as much as Whiskey Business, it was still a nice romance between the wealthy son of a coal mine owner and one of the coal miners.
February 2, 2017
3.5 stars
“Coal Miner’s son” by T.A Chase is a new addition to the “States of love” series featuring the state of West Virginia. The story revolves around a coal mining community, the people, their life and struggles.
James Callahan is the only son and future owner of his family mine, Willow Hollow in West Virginia. Where his father considers himself above and beyond the miners, James has always considered them as family. From childhood he has played with the miner kids, made friends and have always gone all out in helping them in any way he can. James is best friends with Owen Rees, one of the miner’s kids and has an old crush on Owen’s big brother, Cai Rees.
Cai Rees has always noticed his brother’s best friend but has always avoided him because getting involved with the boss’s son is not ok. James leads a life of privilege whereas he has not even finished high school. Cai is sure that in no way they could ever bridge their social differences to be in a relationship of any kind. So even though he craves for the man from afar he has never tried to know James or get close to him. But when a family situation forces Cai to spend more time with James, he realizes that James is not the man he has always thought he would be. Cai and James both needs to take a chance and gamble in love if they want to make their love for each other a reality.
This story captures the essence of a tight-knit mining community beautifully. Despite the money problems, everyone always came through for each other in any way they could. They were proud people who believed in hard work. They had some reservations about accepting help from James but when they get to know him better he is accepted in their fold wholeheartedly.
The romance part was not that exciting IMO. Cai and James were dancing around each other for years so I was hoping for a more detailed relationship development. They had a lot of differences to wade through to actually make a relationship work and I was hoping for more than a hasty kiss and a tumble in bed before their HEA. The jump from a tentative friendship to being boyfriends was very sudden and I didn’t find it believable. Cai had a lot of insecurities regarding dating his boss’s son but when they actually do get together they never talk about it. Without any effort from either of the MCs their relationship goes forward without any hitch. I am not generally a big fan of angst but in this case I thought a minimum amount was necessary to settle the MCs better for a successful future together.
The angst part comes from Cai’s emergency family situation which brings the couple together. It was a side plot but very well written in describing how loving and close-knit the Rees family was. I loved the dynamics between the characters as well as the character development.
This is a very family/community-oriented romance. I loved the feel of the community in this book but the romance did not excite me that much. It does well in describing the natural surroundings and the overall feel of West Virginia as could be expected from a book from this series.
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
“Coal Miner’s son” by T.A Chase is a new addition to the “States of love” series featuring the state of West Virginia. The story revolves around a coal mining community, the people, their life and struggles.
James Callahan is the only son and future owner of his family mine, Willow Hollow in West Virginia. Where his father considers himself above and beyond the miners, James has always considered them as family. From childhood he has played with the miner kids, made friends and have always gone all out in helping them in any way he can. James is best friends with Owen Rees, one of the miner’s kids and has an old crush on Owen’s big brother, Cai Rees.
Cai Rees has always noticed his brother’s best friend but has always avoided him because getting involved with the boss’s son is not ok. James leads a life of privilege whereas he has not even finished high school. Cai is sure that in no way they could ever bridge their social differences to be in a relationship of any kind. So even though he craves for the man from afar he has never tried to know James or get close to him. But when a family situation forces Cai to spend more time with James, he realizes that James is not the man he has always thought he would be. Cai and James both needs to take a chance and gamble in love if they want to make their love for each other a reality.
This story captures the essence of a tight-knit mining community beautifully. Despite the money problems, everyone always came through for each other in any way they could. They were proud people who believed in hard work. They had some reservations about accepting help from James but when they get to know him better he is accepted in their fold wholeheartedly.
The romance part was not that exciting IMO. Cai and James were dancing around each other for years so I was hoping for a more detailed relationship development. They had a lot of differences to wade through to actually make a relationship work and I was hoping for more than a hasty kiss and a tumble in bed before their HEA. The jump from a tentative friendship to being boyfriends was very sudden and I didn’t find it believable. Cai had a lot of insecurities regarding dating his boss’s son but when they actually do get together they never talk about it. Without any effort from either of the MCs their relationship goes forward without any hitch. I am not generally a big fan of angst but in this case I thought a minimum amount was necessary to settle the MCs better for a successful future together.
The angst part comes from Cai’s emergency family situation which brings the couple together. It was a side plot but very well written in describing how loving and close-knit the Rees family was. I loved the dynamics between the characters as well as the character development.
This is a very family/community-oriented romance. I loved the feel of the community in this book but the romance did not excite me that much. It does well in describing the natural surroundings and the overall feel of West Virginia as could be expected from a book from this series.
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
August 27, 2017
Damn it, I wanted to really like this book, but I just couldn't.
I don't feel like Cai and James' relationship had really any good built up to it at all. On one page, they're expressing to other people how they NEVER talk to one another (Cai avoids James like the plague, partially because James is the mine's owner's son, partially because he has been attracted to James for a while, and the rest ??????? I don't feel like these are good enough explanations for the level of avoidance Cai has maintained for YEARS.). On the next, they're calling each other "honey" and wondering how James is going to move to town so they can be together. Meh.
I also didn't get the Appalachian vibe here. We have a very distinct way of speaking, particularly those in the hills, and that didn't come across here at all. I got a sense of community, but no sense of place. For example: we LOVE our negatives ("I ain't never seen nothing like that nowhere no how" is a valid sentence that my cousin has actually used in conversation with me), nouns of place ("That there tractor"), "ain't" (a staple!), and peculiar phrases that most of the "flatlanders" don't know ("I'm a fixin' to work on that there car once it ain't so airish outside"). I don't know, maybe the author thought that it would make the people of Appalachia sound stupid if she incorporated that into her work - I'm not saying that it had to be in every sentence, but it could have peppered the dialogue - but that is REALLY how some of us talk (and how I talked before college!), especially those who are isolated and haven't left the hills (both of which are the case for Cai).
And while mentioning speaking, people who were high school dropouts and people who were college educated spoke exactly the same - there wasn't any difference in word choices at all. Look, I'm not saying that people who drop out of school are dumb or anything like that (I know quite a few myself who had to quit to get jobs to help support their parents, siblings, etc), but I would expect a college-educated man to have a more, shall we say, "high-falutin'" vocabulary.
The chemistry between Cai and James is practically non-existent; I felt like James and Owain (Cai's younger brother and James' best friend) had more chemistry together.
Also, the mine at Willow Hollow is a union mine, and the pay tends to be better, with better hours, safety conditions, and benefits to boot. I really didn't get that feeling here; even while working at a union mine, poverty tends to be a way of life for many in Appalachia, but I really felt that the conditions here were more of the non-union variety.
Meh. Maybe it's because I'm from Appalachian coal mining stock, but this just didn't ring true to me, and the hasty romance between Cai and James didn't make things any better.
I don't feel like Cai and James' relationship had really any good built up to it at all. On one page, they're expressing to other people how they NEVER talk to one another (Cai avoids James like the plague, partially because James is the mine's owner's son, partially because he has been attracted to James for a while, and the rest ??????? I don't feel like these are good enough explanations for the level of avoidance Cai has maintained for YEARS.). On the next, they're calling each other "honey" and wondering how James is going to move to town so they can be together. Meh.
I also didn't get the Appalachian vibe here. We have a very distinct way of speaking, particularly those in the hills, and that didn't come across here at all. I got a sense of community, but no sense of place. For example: we LOVE our negatives ("I ain't never seen nothing like that nowhere no how" is a valid sentence that my cousin has actually used in conversation with me), nouns of place ("That there tractor"), "ain't" (a staple!), and peculiar phrases that most of the "flatlanders" don't know ("I'm a fixin' to work on that there car once it ain't so airish outside"). I don't know, maybe the author thought that it would make the people of Appalachia sound stupid if she incorporated that into her work - I'm not saying that it had to be in every sentence, but it could have peppered the dialogue - but that is REALLY how some of us talk (and how I talked before college!), especially those who are isolated and haven't left the hills (both of which are the case for Cai).
And while mentioning speaking, people who were high school dropouts and people who were college educated spoke exactly the same - there wasn't any difference in word choices at all. Look, I'm not saying that people who drop out of school are dumb or anything like that (I know quite a few myself who had to quit to get jobs to help support their parents, siblings, etc), but I would expect a college-educated man to have a more, shall we say, "high-falutin'" vocabulary.
The chemistry between Cai and James is practically non-existent; I felt like James and Owain (Cai's younger brother and James' best friend) had more chemistry together.
Also, the mine at Willow Hollow is a union mine, and the pay tends to be better, with better hours, safety conditions, and benefits to boot. I really didn't get that feeling here; even while working at a union mine, poverty tends to be a way of life for many in Appalachia, but I really felt that the conditions here were more of the non-union variety.
Meh. Maybe it's because I'm from Appalachian coal mining stock, but this just didn't ring true to me, and the hasty romance between Cai and James didn't make things any better.
February 10, 2017
I really liked James and Cai together. I thought they worked, but I didn't have enough of them together. I didn't understand why Cai hated James basically all his life when Owain and his Ma loved him. I loved James. He was so sweet and kind and just wanted to be 'normal'. The parking lot scene was like a punch in my gut. I loved it. That's when I fell in love with Cai and James. Wouldn't mind more from this mining town.
January 4, 2017
✨✨✨✨4 Be Safe Stars✨✨✨✨
This is my first T.A. Chase story and book one in a new series, States of Love. I didn't know what to expect but the synopsis sounded interesting and I was pleasantly surprised, I liked this one a lot!
The author did a really great job of research and brought the backwoods of West Virginia and the small coal mining town, Willow Hollow, to realistic life. The names for the characters this author used for the story also made it feel like the reader was in the Appalachian mountains, Owain, Cai, Bronwen, Bedwyr, Dilys.
This is the enemies to lovers story of James, whose father owns a huge coal mining operation, and Cai, the son of a many generations mining family. As a young child, James had been brought around the mines and made friends with the miner's children. He never thought of himself as any different. His best friend is Owain, Cai's brother. James has had a secret attraction to Cai for a long time, but Cai has shown him nothing but disdain over the years. As James has gotten older and taken over some of the responsibilities of managing the mines, he has tried to incorporate his own ideas and safety measures to keep the miners safe. But no one likes change and Owain and Cai's father is one of them. Unknown to most of the town and Cai's family, James has been secretly buying groceries when times were tough and helping their sister, Bronwen with medical school so that she can return and serve the community as their doctor. James decides to stay at his cabin in Willow Hollow for an extended time in order to formalize some of the changes he would like to make. He has always felt more at home in Willow Hollow than in the big city. During this time, Cai's feelings toward James begin to thaw and they spend more time together. Their intense chemistry ignites and my kindle had a bit of a fiery meltdown! There were some angsty moments and some revelations that changed the course of the family, but in the end, Cai and James are accepted as a couple and the epilogue 1 year later was perfect.
T.A. Chase is an author now on my radar for quick, interesting and steamy M/M reads!
Be Safe is the family code for "Love you"
✨✨✨✨
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
✨✨✨✨
Reviewed by Barb from Alpha Book Club
✨✨✨✨✨
This is my first T.A. Chase story and book one in a new series, States of Love. I didn't know what to expect but the synopsis sounded interesting and I was pleasantly surprised, I liked this one a lot!
The author did a really great job of research and brought the backwoods of West Virginia and the small coal mining town, Willow Hollow, to realistic life. The names for the characters this author used for the story also made it feel like the reader was in the Appalachian mountains, Owain, Cai, Bronwen, Bedwyr, Dilys.
This is the enemies to lovers story of James, whose father owns a huge coal mining operation, and Cai, the son of a many generations mining family. As a young child, James had been brought around the mines and made friends with the miner's children. He never thought of himself as any different. His best friend is Owain, Cai's brother. James has had a secret attraction to Cai for a long time, but Cai has shown him nothing but disdain over the years. As James has gotten older and taken over some of the responsibilities of managing the mines, he has tried to incorporate his own ideas and safety measures to keep the miners safe. But no one likes change and Owain and Cai's father is one of them. Unknown to most of the town and Cai's family, James has been secretly buying groceries when times were tough and helping their sister, Bronwen with medical school so that she can return and serve the community as their doctor. James decides to stay at his cabin in Willow Hollow for an extended time in order to formalize some of the changes he would like to make. He has always felt more at home in Willow Hollow than in the big city. During this time, Cai's feelings toward James begin to thaw and they spend more time together. Their intense chemistry ignites and my kindle had a bit of a fiery meltdown! There were some angsty moments and some revelations that changed the course of the family, but in the end, Cai and James are accepted as a couple and the epilogue 1 year later was perfect.
T.A. Chase is an author now on my radar for quick, interesting and steamy M/M reads!
Be Safe is the family code for "Love you"
✨✨✨✨
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
✨✨✨✨
Reviewed by Barb from Alpha Book Club
✨✨✨✨✨
December 9, 2016
Review to come
February 2, 2017
Owain and James have been friends for as long as they can remember.
James's Dad ownes the Willow Hollow mines that the little town in West Virgina sit in.
James has always had a crush on Owians brother Cai but, Cai never gave him the time of day because just like a lot of other people in the town; they thought James was like his father....
Let's talk about James' father. He was pompous and self-important, I didn't care for him at all and I was glad James stood up to him about the things that we're important.
We have other stories going on within the story; like Cai and Owain's sister leaving her husband who was a drunk and physically violent, so they were dealing with that. That's actually what helped Cai get over his aversion to dating the boss's son. Then, we have their sister, who honestly, is another weird spelled name and I don't remember it; but she's going to school to be a doctor and the town pitches in to keep her in school, because they know she'll come back and the town will finally have a doctor. Not many know that James is a big contributor to her though; and the rest of the town, even though they'd probably not like knowing that he buys groceries for the small town and helps them out with things they need.
He's a genuinely nice guy and he has the means to help. I wish the town would have been more appreciative. I did like the small town feel of this story though, living in a ridiculously small town, I really enjoy the concept of the town being more like a family and everyone helping everyone. I like that Cai and James didn't hide their relationship once they got together and for the most part people seemed accepting. I liked how James thought about the miners and their families and was good to everyone. He was truly a really nice guy.
This book is a different read than what I'm used to, but I'm glad I gave it a chance. If you're looking for a low angst book with a "FINALLY" type of relationship lol, you'll enjoy this book.
4 stars from me :)
*I received a book by the publisher with the promise of leaving an honest and unbiased review.*
James's Dad ownes the Willow Hollow mines that the little town in West Virgina sit in.
James has always had a crush on Owians brother Cai but, Cai never gave him the time of day because just like a lot of other people in the town; they thought James was like his father....
Let's talk about James' father. He was pompous and self-important, I didn't care for him at all and I was glad James stood up to him about the things that we're important.
We have other stories going on within the story; like Cai and Owain's sister leaving her husband who was a drunk and physically violent, so they were dealing with that. That's actually what helped Cai get over his aversion to dating the boss's son. Then, we have their sister, who honestly, is another weird spelled name and I don't remember it; but she's going to school to be a doctor and the town pitches in to keep her in school, because they know she'll come back and the town will finally have a doctor. Not many know that James is a big contributor to her though; and the rest of the town, even though they'd probably not like knowing that he buys groceries for the small town and helps them out with things they need.
He's a genuinely nice guy and he has the means to help. I wish the town would have been more appreciative. I did like the small town feel of this story though, living in a ridiculously small town, I really enjoy the concept of the town being more like a family and everyone helping everyone. I like that Cai and James didn't hide their relationship once they got together and for the most part people seemed accepting. I liked how James thought about the miners and their families and was good to everyone. He was truly a really nice guy.
This book is a different read than what I'm used to, but I'm glad I gave it a chance. If you're looking for a low angst book with a "FINALLY" type of relationship lol, you'll enjoy this book.
4 stars from me :)
*I received a book by the publisher with the promise of leaving an honest and unbiased review.*
January 5, 2017
My first T.A. Chase book, and it was a sweet fluffy romance! I really enjoyed this story and loved the romance between the two. This series continues to be really sweet and good. Cai and James are kinda enemies. James is the rich son of the boss in Willows Hollow. Cai's family is a founding family of Willow's Hollow and he doesn't take kind to strangers and people who are hoyty toyty. He thinks James is exactly like his father. Well they both come to learn the other isn't what they same.
I really liked James character in this story. He was the complete opposite of what anyone could expect of him. He is the only child, and he's super down to earth. He kinda wishes he wasn't born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He's so nice, comforting, and realizing now he wants to be in love. Except he's in love with Cai, his best friend's brother. Cai who ignores him constantly and thinks the worst of him.
I really don't get why Cai disliked James so much. He never really had a conversation with him outside of work. He's never seen him socially, and never gotten to know him. I honestly think Cai disliked him to be a petulant child. I did like Cai, he was a overall good guy. He seemed a little high strung at times, but that can be attributed to the town he stays in and the people he deals with.
After a stressful event, Cai ends up at James house. It's unexpected for both guys, but the invitation was out there. They realized after much debate how much they are interested in one another. The was a bit of a slow burn, but I really liked the two together. I thought they were cute how they handled one another. All in all, I think this was a really good story. It had a few hiccups along with the way with names in the wrong places, and a mixed up paragraph or so. Overall, I'd recommend this story. Two guys who are meant to be but don't know it comes together beautifully.
I really liked James character in this story. He was the complete opposite of what anyone could expect of him. He is the only child, and he's super down to earth. He kinda wishes he wasn't born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He's so nice, comforting, and realizing now he wants to be in love. Except he's in love with Cai, his best friend's brother. Cai who ignores him constantly and thinks the worst of him.
I really don't get why Cai disliked James so much. He never really had a conversation with him outside of work. He's never seen him socially, and never gotten to know him. I honestly think Cai disliked him to be a petulant child. I did like Cai, he was a overall good guy. He seemed a little high strung at times, but that can be attributed to the town he stays in and the people he deals with.
After a stressful event, Cai ends up at James house. It's unexpected for both guys, but the invitation was out there. They realized after much debate how much they are interested in one another. The was a bit of a slow burn, but I really liked the two together. I thought they were cute how they handled one another. All in all, I think this was a really good story. It had a few hiccups along with the way with names in the wrong places, and a mixed up paragraph or so. Overall, I'd recommend this story. Two guys who are meant to be but don't know it comes together beautifully.
February 2, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
This was a wonderful feel good story. James has worked hard to not be like his father and appreciates the people who work for him. He has always been attracted to Cai, but knows that Cai doesn’t like him, no matter how he acts.
Cai acknowledges that James is making things better for the miners, but figures he is still like his father deep down. When he actually gets to see him away from the mine and “in real life” he can see that everything Owain has said about James is true. Seeing James care for his family and the community make Cai doubt what he has always believed.
This story gives us both characters’ views which goes a long way to help know them better. James is fighting what feels like a losing battle with the board to make things better for the miners, I could just feel how passionate and caring he is in his actions and words. I could see Cai’s stubbornness and also how much he cares for this family, he becomes conflicted with what he has always known and James helps him to understand his feelings. I loved seeing them stand up together for their love to grow.
Cover art by Jennifer Vance is great works well for that characters in this story.
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
This was a wonderful feel good story. James has worked hard to not be like his father and appreciates the people who work for him. He has always been attracted to Cai, but knows that Cai doesn’t like him, no matter how he acts.
Cai acknowledges that James is making things better for the miners, but figures he is still like his father deep down. When he actually gets to see him away from the mine and “in real life” he can see that everything Owain has said about James is true. Seeing James care for his family and the community make Cai doubt what he has always believed.
This story gives us both characters’ views which goes a long way to help know them better. James is fighting what feels like a losing battle with the board to make things better for the miners, I could just feel how passionate and caring he is in his actions and words. I could see Cai’s stubbornness and also how much he cares for this family, he becomes conflicted with what he has always known and James helps him to understand his feelings. I loved seeing them stand up together for their love to grow.
Cover art by Jennifer Vance is great works well for that characters in this story.
November 26, 2019
Cute little escape.
April 19, 2018
I am such a sucker for novels set in little towns, and this was no different, even if not everything about it was perfect. This was pretty much a perfect 3 stars in my opinion, it was okay but not the best thing I've ever read. I enjoyed my time with it, but there were definitely some qualms.
So I obviously loved the setting of this. I love novels about people in small towns doing an honest days work and living their lives. I feel much more connected to these than I do to novels set in big cities, and I thought it was interesting to see the way that James reacted with the difference between the city and such a small town. I also loved the one big community aspect. I always see the aspect of gossip flying around quickly in a small town, but I feel like I never see the other side of it, and this showed that so well. Seeing how everyone can come together to make the town better and how they protect their own is so heartwarming. The overall setting also allowed a commentary on small town beliefs and adversity, which is something I like to see explored, and would like to see more of. As the world changes, and steadily becomes more accepting, or attempts to, we have to see how different populations are affected and how differences in lifestyles affect people, and what better way to explore that than through fiction like this.
One of my other favorite parts about this was the family dynamic that was explored. They were such a tight knit group that had such wonderful relationships with one another that were explicitly shown, and I liked that a lot. They all loved one another so much, which is something I value and find important. I also thought it was fitting for exploration since we got to see how families can change and grow with new circumstances and adversities thrown in.
Overall, I had two main qualms with the book overall.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Cai and James, but I don't think it was executed to it's full potential. I think they definitely grew and grew together and what we did see of their growth was good and made me root for the relationship. I just think that the book needed to be a little longer for further exploration, especially in the early parts of their relationship. I think it progressed too quickly from not being able to be around each other to falling in love. There were some deliberate details that I read as trying to soften that up, but I just didn't think it worked well. I loved them as a couple and I loved them as individuals, I just think they needed more time at the beginning.
My other problem was the writing, unfortunately. A lot of the time I found that I could read it just fine, but too much of the time I found myself being pulled out of the overall story because I just didn't like the way it was written. Too much of the time it felt like the story was being told in bullet points, as if I was being told this happened, and then this happened, and then this happened, and on and on. Then there was the dialogue and this went in the same fashion; I could read on for a while just fine, laugh along with the characters, and then someone would say something that felt off. It was either a weird phrasing, timing, or just too formal for the situation.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. The characters were well done, and I felt connected to even the most inconspicuous of characters. I enjoyed the relationship and thought they were well done for one another. There were just a few things that made it difficult for me to enjoy it any more than I did.
So I obviously loved the setting of this. I love novels about people in small towns doing an honest days work and living their lives. I feel much more connected to these than I do to novels set in big cities, and I thought it was interesting to see the way that James reacted with the difference between the city and such a small town. I also loved the one big community aspect. I always see the aspect of gossip flying around quickly in a small town, but I feel like I never see the other side of it, and this showed that so well. Seeing how everyone can come together to make the town better and how they protect their own is so heartwarming. The overall setting also allowed a commentary on small town beliefs and adversity, which is something I like to see explored, and would like to see more of. As the world changes, and steadily becomes more accepting, or attempts to, we have to see how different populations are affected and how differences in lifestyles affect people, and what better way to explore that than through fiction like this.
One of my other favorite parts about this was the family dynamic that was explored. They were such a tight knit group that had such wonderful relationships with one another that were explicitly shown, and I liked that a lot. They all loved one another so much, which is something I value and find important. I also thought it was fitting for exploration since we got to see how families can change and grow with new circumstances and adversities thrown in.
Overall, I had two main qualms with the book overall.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Cai and James, but I don't think it was executed to it's full potential. I think they definitely grew and grew together and what we did see of their growth was good and made me root for the relationship. I just think that the book needed to be a little longer for further exploration, especially in the early parts of their relationship. I think it progressed too quickly from not being able to be around each other to falling in love. There were some deliberate details that I read as trying to soften that up, but I just didn't think it worked well. I loved them as a couple and I loved them as individuals, I just think they needed more time at the beginning.
My other problem was the writing, unfortunately. A lot of the time I found that I could read it just fine, but too much of the time I found myself being pulled out of the overall story because I just didn't like the way it was written. Too much of the time it felt like the story was being told in bullet points, as if I was being told this happened, and then this happened, and then this happened, and on and on. Then there was the dialogue and this went in the same fashion; I could read on for a while just fine, laugh along with the characters, and then someone would say something that felt off. It was either a weird phrasing, timing, or just too formal for the situation.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. The characters were well done, and I felt connected to even the most inconspicuous of characters. I enjoyed the relationship and thought they were well done for one another. There were just a few things that made it difficult for me to enjoy it any more than I did.
February 20, 2017
James Callahan has always felt a kinship to Willow Hollow, its hardworking coal miners and their families and the beautiful West Virginia countryside, but it seems some people don't trust the son of the boss. Unfortunately, the man James has always been attracted to - Cai Rees, the older brother of his best friend Owain - is one of them. But throughout the book, a crisis with the mining company and a Rees family emergency draws the two men closer.
T.A. Chase does a beautiful job of describing the close-knit Appalachian community pulling together to help one another. The story of the community putting Bronwen Rees throughout medical school, with her promising to return as Willow Hollow's doctor, is very touching. I also liked the Rees family and their family dynamic. However I felt the on-page chemistry between Cai and James was lacking and their relationship was undeveloped. Finally, nitpicker alert, in one scene there are three dogs, then suddenly only one, then back to three.
My rating for A Coal Miner's Son is 3.25 stars, and while I enjoyed the plot and the setting, I felt the romantic relationship needed more depth.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
T.A. Chase does a beautiful job of describing the close-knit Appalachian community pulling together to help one another. The story of the community putting Bronwen Rees throughout medical school, with her promising to return as Willow Hollow's doctor, is very touching. I also liked the Rees family and their family dynamic. However I felt the on-page chemistry between Cai and James was lacking and their relationship was undeveloped. Finally, nitpicker alert, in one scene there are three dogs, then suddenly only one, then back to three.
My rating for A Coal Miner's Son is 3.25 stars, and while I enjoyed the plot and the setting, I felt the romantic relationship needed more depth.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
February 2, 2017
James Callahan is the heir to a large mining operation who can't seem to live up to his father's expectations. For one, James has always been friendly and associated with the miners, and Nicholas Callahan doesn't understand why his son wouldn't want to spend his time with people of his same social standing. But to James, he's never been any better than those who work the mines, and he's not about to let his position or his wealth become a divider. He's been best friends with Owain for years. And Owain's older brother, Cai, always has a way of turning James's head--even if Cai avoids James at all costs.
Cai Rees doesn't deny the fact that James is cute. He is. But they come from two different worlds. James is rich and the Callahans all think they are better than the miners, don't they? How could they ever have anything in common. And would Cai really want to put up with James's high-class family all the time? No, Cai is right to stay away. But when Cai finds he needs James's help with some family drama, he quickly realizes it may be much harder to stay away than he'd first imagined it would be.
I have a soft spot for stories of people who have secretly harbored feelings for each other for years and finally see the chance to act on them. And when you've been carrying around feelings for a long time, it doesn't necessarily mean it's easier to express or process them. Sometimes it can be even harder to act when you've been holding yourself back for so long. And for Cai and James, years of family dynamics and assumptions layered on top of everything make for some additional challenges...and opportunities.
Cai Rees doesn't deny the fact that James is cute. He is. But they come from two different worlds. James is rich and the Callahans all think they are better than the miners, don't they? How could they ever have anything in common. And would Cai really want to put up with James's high-class family all the time? No, Cai is right to stay away. But when Cai finds he needs James's help with some family drama, he quickly realizes it may be much harder to stay away than he'd first imagined it would be.
I have a soft spot for stories of people who have secretly harbored feelings for each other for years and finally see the chance to act on them. And when you've been carrying around feelings for a long time, it doesn't necessarily mean it's easier to express or process them. Sometimes it can be even harder to act when you've been holding yourself back for so long. And for Cai and James, years of family dynamics and assumptions layered on top of everything make for some additional challenges...and opportunities.
May 31, 2021
I liked it. There wasn't a lot of angst or conflicts....just a good story. The relationship between James and Cai was a bit too insta-love for me since Cai has been ignoring James since he was a kid and the best friend of his younger brother, Owain. James is also the boss's son so this also makes him the enemy.
When Cai finally notices James as a man rather than his brother's friend, their interactions went from nonexistent to love in hours. To me, that just didn't work and the relationship could have been defined much smoothly earlier in the book. Even with this, I still enjoyed reading this book.
When Cai finally notices James as a man rather than his brother's friend, their interactions went from nonexistent to love in hours. To me, that just didn't work and the relationship could have been defined much smoothly earlier in the book. Even with this, I still enjoyed reading this book.
December 13, 2017
Well, Cai and James moved quick - I’m going to believe that attraction has been simmering for long years as Owain and James have been friends, so actually they have moved really slow!!
Lots going on in a relatively short story, not sure all was necessary but there we go.
I did quite like it, more time building up Cai and James would get more buy in to them as a couple.
Enjoyed the setting.
Lots going on in a relatively short story, not sure all was necessary but there we go.
I did quite like it, more time building up Cai and James would get more buy in to them as a couple.
Enjoyed the setting.
June 26, 2017
** 3.5 Stars **
November 21, 2017
3.5 stars
October 21, 2018
Did not care for the portrayal of coal mining in WV.
January 23, 2020
A sweet read, enjoyed the story and the characters.
February 3, 2020
3.5 Stars
March 2, 2017
Blog Post: http://lovebytesreviews.com/2017/02/1...
Although James Callahan is the owner of Willow Hollow mines son he has always felt more of an affinity with the miner’s children than the rich owner’s children. For as much as James father Nicholas tried to keep James away from them James was just as determined to sneak away and therefore he made a life-long friend in Owain Rees, the son of a coal miner. Owain and James have always enjoyed caving whenever they have the time. Owain’s father has lived and worked in the Willow Hollow coal mine for over 30 years and because of this all his son’s work there as well. When Owain isn’t in the mine he’s scouting out new caves for them to explore whenever James is in town.
Cai Rees is Owain’s older brother and he too works in the Willow Hollow mine. Ever since they were teenagers Cai has avoided James mainly because he knew he was attracted to him but he would never let the owner’s son know that! For some reason this visit things are different, Cai is noticing things “someone” is doing to make the lives of the miner’s family’s easier. It never occurred to him that the extra grocery’s that his mother hands out only appear whenever James is in town. For some reason, Cai decides to spend time with James and discovers that he’s not at all what he imagined.
Not only does James feel like he must prove himself to his father in his job with the family business but he feels like he must prove he’s not the bad the guy to the residents of Willow Hollow. The only person he can be himself around is Owain in fact, Owain is the only person he’s ever felt comfortable around. James has always been fiercely attracted to Cai ad has never understood why he avoids him whenever he comes to town. This trip James and Cai connect on a level neither has ever felt with anyone else and though it takes time they manage to overcome a lot of prejudice, misunderstanding and plain old pigheadedness! Because of this I have no hesitation in recommending A Coal Miner’s Son to everyone who enjoys reading romance story’s.
Although James Callahan is the owner of Willow Hollow mines son he has always felt more of an affinity with the miner’s children than the rich owner’s children. For as much as James father Nicholas tried to keep James away from them James was just as determined to sneak away and therefore he made a life-long friend in Owain Rees, the son of a coal miner. Owain and James have always enjoyed caving whenever they have the time. Owain’s father has lived and worked in the Willow Hollow coal mine for over 30 years and because of this all his son’s work there as well. When Owain isn’t in the mine he’s scouting out new caves for them to explore whenever James is in town.
Cai Rees is Owain’s older brother and he too works in the Willow Hollow mine. Ever since they were teenagers Cai has avoided James mainly because he knew he was attracted to him but he would never let the owner’s son know that! For some reason this visit things are different, Cai is noticing things “someone” is doing to make the lives of the miner’s family’s easier. It never occurred to him that the extra grocery’s that his mother hands out only appear whenever James is in town. For some reason, Cai decides to spend time with James and discovers that he’s not at all what he imagined.
Not only does James feel like he must prove himself to his father in his job with the family business but he feels like he must prove he’s not the bad the guy to the residents of Willow Hollow. The only person he can be himself around is Owain in fact, Owain is the only person he’s ever felt comfortable around. James has always been fiercely attracted to Cai ad has never understood why he avoids him whenever he comes to town. This trip James and Cai connect on a level neither has ever felt with anyone else and though it takes time they manage to overcome a lot of prejudice, misunderstanding and plain old pigheadedness! Because of this I have no hesitation in recommending A Coal Miner’s Son to everyone who enjoys reading romance story’s.
February 6, 2017
While the “coal miner’s son” appears in the title of this family drama set in West Virginia, the “boss’s son” plays a significant role as well. In fact, it’s the social differences between the two that stand in the way of a possible relationship and it was fascinating to watch how both men deal, or not deal, with the problems arising from such a different background. As usual in these ‘States of Love’ novellas, the setting is almost as important as the story, and I loved all the details about the people, their attitudes, and some of the sights in “The Mountain State”.
James is “the boss’s son” and he hates that title. He has always loved spending time with the people of Willow Hollow, one of his father’s biggest mines, and he never wanted to feel any different. Owain, one of the miners’ kids, was his best friend growing up, and they have remained close now that James is more involved in managing the mine. James wants to help, whether it’s by making the mine more secure or by supporting the miners and their families financially. But his biggest wish, getting closer to Owain’s older brother, Cai, has been thwarted for years – Cai avoids James like the plague.
Cai is the one with the biggest issues around his attraction to James. He “admits” that James is cute, but he can’t see how their different backgrounds will ever let them become equal partners. Cai has been working in the mine since he was sixteen, and while his family is not dirt-poor, they do have to watch the pennies. James has grown up with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth, is educated, and is Cai’s employer. It’s interesting to see that, once Cai starts actually talking to James, he discovers that they both have very similar values. Not to mention that the physical attraction begins to pretty much sizzle between them once Cai opens up to the possibilities.
James and Cai might have continued living alongside each other for years if not for some unexpected problems around one of Cai and Owain’s sisters. It means Cai is upset enough to let James into his personal space, and they soon discover the differences between them are more superficial than real. It doesn’t make figuring out how to relate any easier – after all they are still employee and employer. But with quickly evolving feelings in the air, the incentive to find a way is definitely there.
If you like characters who come from opposite ends of the social spectrum and have to figure out how to make a relationship work, if you enjoy stories with a distinctive, interesting setting, and if you’re looking for a read that has longing, drama, and an understated romance all in one, then you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
James is “the boss’s son” and he hates that title. He has always loved spending time with the people of Willow Hollow, one of his father’s biggest mines, and he never wanted to feel any different. Owain, one of the miners’ kids, was his best friend growing up, and they have remained close now that James is more involved in managing the mine. James wants to help, whether it’s by making the mine more secure or by supporting the miners and their families financially. But his biggest wish, getting closer to Owain’s older brother, Cai, has been thwarted for years – Cai avoids James like the plague.
Cai is the one with the biggest issues around his attraction to James. He “admits” that James is cute, but he can’t see how their different backgrounds will ever let them become equal partners. Cai has been working in the mine since he was sixteen, and while his family is not dirt-poor, they do have to watch the pennies. James has grown up with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth, is educated, and is Cai’s employer. It’s interesting to see that, once Cai starts actually talking to James, he discovers that they both have very similar values. Not to mention that the physical attraction begins to pretty much sizzle between them once Cai opens up to the possibilities.
James and Cai might have continued living alongside each other for years if not for some unexpected problems around one of Cai and Owain’s sisters. It means Cai is upset enough to let James into his personal space, and they soon discover the differences between them are more superficial than real. It doesn’t make figuring out how to relate any easier – after all they are still employee and employer. But with quickly evolving feelings in the air, the incentive to find a way is definitely there.
If you like characters who come from opposite ends of the social spectrum and have to figure out how to make a relationship work, if you enjoy stories with a distinctive, interesting setting, and if you’re looking for a read that has longing, drama, and an understated romance all in one, then you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
January 2, 2017
This was a wonderful, sweet romance between two men who was complete opposites in life. T.A. Chase did a magnificent job on this book. I read it and it really touched my heart how these two men came together and did not let their different walks of life come in between them.
Cai comes from a hard working family that mainly consists of coal miners. Each of the boys for as far back as they could remember followed in their fathers foot steps before them by working in the mine. Though they did not have much as far as money goes, this family has so much more because they are extremely close as a family. They have each other's backs as well as their neighbors in their communities backs. They may not have a lot but hey do not let anyone else go without if they can help it and part of that reason is because Cai's mom was smart enough to accept the help that is offered to them and does it with grace and pride. She is also smart enough not to say how she gets what they need and what everyone else in their community needs because that would just be asking for an uproar considering who it is that has been helping her.
James's father is the one that owns the company that Cai and his family works for. Even though James grew up around the mines, his father tried to keep him from interacting with the workers and their children because in his fathers eyes everyone else was beneath them but James never felt that way. As a matter of fact he felt more at home with Cai and Owain then he does anywhere else. Owain has been James's best friend since they was little and Cai being Owain's older brother and the secret crush James has had forever makes him feel even more comfortable with them. James is also the one that has been helping everyone in the community that he loves so much but he does not want anyone to know because he knows it would be hard for anyone to accept it because of his family's money and him being the bosses son.
Finally after all these years Cai sees the opportunity to finally have with James the things he only dreamed of and James is more then willing. The question is will they let their differences in social standing come in between them or will they both get over their positions to realize that love is more important then money or the lack there of it.
As I said this was a great romance story. T.A. Chase really did do a wonderful job on this book. It is nice to read a sweet romance sometimes and this was one that will touch your heart.
I look forward to more by T.A. Chase in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Cai comes from a hard working family that mainly consists of coal miners. Each of the boys for as far back as they could remember followed in their fathers foot steps before them by working in the mine. Though they did not have much as far as money goes, this family has so much more because they are extremely close as a family. They have each other's backs as well as their neighbors in their communities backs. They may not have a lot but hey do not let anyone else go without if they can help it and part of that reason is because Cai's mom was smart enough to accept the help that is offered to them and does it with grace and pride. She is also smart enough not to say how she gets what they need and what everyone else in their community needs because that would just be asking for an uproar considering who it is that has been helping her.
James's father is the one that owns the company that Cai and his family works for. Even though James grew up around the mines, his father tried to keep him from interacting with the workers and their children because in his fathers eyes everyone else was beneath them but James never felt that way. As a matter of fact he felt more at home with Cai and Owain then he does anywhere else. Owain has been James's best friend since they was little and Cai being Owain's older brother and the secret crush James has had forever makes him feel even more comfortable with them. James is also the one that has been helping everyone in the community that he loves so much but he does not want anyone to know because he knows it would be hard for anyone to accept it because of his family's money and him being the bosses son.
Finally after all these years Cai sees the opportunity to finally have with James the things he only dreamed of and James is more then willing. The question is will they let their differences in social standing come in between them or will they both get over their positions to realize that love is more important then money or the lack there of it.
As I said this was a great romance story. T.A. Chase really did do a wonderful job on this book. It is nice to read a sweet romance sometimes and this was one that will touch your heart.
I look forward to more by T.A. Chase in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
February 6, 2017
4.5 Stars!
So, I was prepared for lots of angst and conflict and the whole back and forth between the two MC's about having a relationship. Instead, I was surprised by very minimal conflict and no angst at all. It was actually a sweet romance without the overly saccharine dialogue.
Cai is the eldest son of a mining family, newly promoted to supervisor, working alongside his father and younger brother. While he's never hidden his sexuality, he definitely doesn't advertise it since their environment inside the mine isn't necessarily very gay-friendly. Although Cai seems to get along with just about anybody, the one person he can't seem to make up his mind about is James.
James has never let the fact that his father owns the mine alter his friendship with his best friend Owain. He loves the town and the people and feels more at home around there than he does in the city. He wishes the folks there wouldn't see him solely as the boss' son. He especially wishes Cai, Owain' older brother didn't seem to avoid him whenever he could.
Both men are surprised when Cai comes to James to talk about family matters and the two are unable to pretend they aren't attracted to one another. From there they are faced with growing feelings and what to do about them while big changes are happening around them.
I truly liked Cai and James and thought they were great together. They may have moved quickly when they got together but after knowing each other almost their entire lives and James being so close to most of Cai's family, it was only natural. I'm wishing we could have gotten to see a bit more of Owain though because I'd like to find out how their dynamic changed.
Overall, the writing was good and the story a quick easy read. I'd definitely recommend A Coal Miner's Son.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
So, I was prepared for lots of angst and conflict and the whole back and forth between the two MC's about having a relationship. Instead, I was surprised by very minimal conflict and no angst at all. It was actually a sweet romance without the overly saccharine dialogue.
Cai is the eldest son of a mining family, newly promoted to supervisor, working alongside his father and younger brother. While he's never hidden his sexuality, he definitely doesn't advertise it since their environment inside the mine isn't necessarily very gay-friendly. Although Cai seems to get along with just about anybody, the one person he can't seem to make up his mind about is James.
James has never let the fact that his father owns the mine alter his friendship with his best friend Owain. He loves the town and the people and feels more at home around there than he does in the city. He wishes the folks there wouldn't see him solely as the boss' son. He especially wishes Cai, Owain' older brother didn't seem to avoid him whenever he could.
Both men are surprised when Cai comes to James to talk about family matters and the two are unable to pretend they aren't attracted to one another. From there they are faced with growing feelings and what to do about them while big changes are happening around them.
I truly liked Cai and James and thought they were great together. They may have moved quickly when they got together but after knowing each other almost their entire lives and James being so close to most of Cai's family, it was only natural. I'm wishing we could have gotten to see a bit more of Owain though because I'd like to find out how their dynamic changed.
Overall, the writing was good and the story a quick easy read. I'd definitely recommend A Coal Miner's Son.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
March 9, 2017
Sometimes I like TA Chase ... in particular, I enjoyed the International sporting series. However, I'm seeing people praise the research and feel of the community. But it is all wrong. I was born in Appalachia, have used a functioning outhouse in my lifetime, and can make biscuits without a recipe. One of my grandmothers was one of 13, her husband one of 17. First -- high school graduation isn't exactly rare. No one is going to be thinking of that one high school graduate in 2015. I looked up a sample community and 82% of students graduated -- could be a lot better but not rare.Seriously ... one church in town? People are going to have cars, maybe junky needs-repairs cars ... and they'll take themselves to their preferred Baptist, Presbyterian, Methodist, etc., church of which there will be many. I'm familiar with things happening like emergency rooms closing down in rural areas ... but it isn't like there is a complete lack of medical care, and the communities have contingency plans. No community would starve itself to send the one bright girl to medical school. Maybe some program would pay some of her costs to work in a high need community. But she'd probably get loans to last a lifetime like most other medical students. Plus I think the issues facing the W. Va. miners are more that the mines are gone or going. Having a company small enough to be run by one family still happily in production seems odd to me. Anyway, I liked the relationship somewhat, but the lack of accurate research got to me, especially since the series is supposed to be about states. Plus the Welsh names, really? I googled West Virginia and "Bedwyr" and this book was one of the first links.
January 2, 2017
James is a wealthy man. His family owns coal mines in Virginia area. He is taking more on in this mine. His best friend is one of the miners. He has crushed on Owain's oldest brother Cai for years but it was unreciprocated. James is wanting to get on with his life out of his father's thumb.
A Coalminer's son is a good story. I loved all the characters especially James. I loved how he wasn't a stereotypical rich man. I loved his compassion and love for the community. The romance does move fast and I would have liked a longer story, but all in all it was a very good romance.
If you like hardworking men, coal miners, millionaires, and sweet romance.
A Coalminer's son is a good story. I loved all the characters especially James. I loved how he wasn't a stereotypical rich man. I loved his compassion and love for the community. The romance does move fast and I would have liked a longer story, but all in all it was a very good romance.
If you like hardworking men, coal miners, millionaires, and sweet romance.
January 4, 2017
3.5 Stars
This story had me all over the place. I liked the idea of the boss's son and the miner getting together, but the execution fell flat. The secret affection was not so secret. While the acceptance and love that flowed through this small West Virginia town was a beautiful thing to see, I never quite connected with the story. Cai and James were cute together, but no hot passion. Maybe the dialogue was too stilted and the connections too vague. The story was sweet overall, just no real oomph. It felt like a lot of exposition for what could be a great series.
This story had me all over the place. I liked the idea of the boss's son and the miner getting together, but the execution fell flat. The secret affection was not so secret. While the acceptance and love that flowed through this small West Virginia town was a beautiful thing to see, I never quite connected with the story. Cai and James were cute together, but no hot passion. Maybe the dialogue was too stilted and the connections too vague. The story was sweet overall, just no real oomph. It felt like a lot of exposition for what could be a great series.
February 2, 2017
I always liked T.A. Chase's books and once again, A Coal MIner's Son, didn't disappoint. What we have here is a fast developing romance between James and Owain. The storyline was realistic enough, but for me, way to rushed. Nonetheless, ending was emotionally satisfying.
Read
January 4, 2017Not connecting with the MCs, in large part because they are not really connecting. Too much other stuff going on.
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