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The Walker Boys #2
Breaking Bonds
The Walker Boys
From the frying pan into the fire.
After a critic’s review attacks both Chef Liam Walker’s culinary skills and his personal life, Liam can no longer take the heat of the cutthroat New York City restaurant scene. He needs to get out of the kitchen—at least long enough to cool down and regroup.
At the Overlook Resort in North Carolina, Liam meets owner Carter Galloway. Carter has a passion for the hospitality business to rival Liam’s own, and it’s not hard to see where their shared interests—and attraction—could lead. But Carter has no interest in a fling, and Liam has no intention of walking away from the career he fought so hard for. If they want a taste of happiness together, they’ll have to find the courage to break the bonds threatening to pull them apart.
From the frying pan into the fire.
After a critic’s review attacks both Chef Liam Walker’s culinary skills and his personal life, Liam can no longer take the heat of the cutthroat New York City restaurant scene. He needs to get out of the kitchen—at least long enough to cool down and regroup.
At the Overlook Resort in North Carolina, Liam meets owner Carter Galloway. Carter has a passion for the hospitality business to rival Liam’s own, and it’s not hard to see where their shared interests—and attraction—could lead. But Carter has no interest in a fling, and Liam has no intention of walking away from the career he fought so hard for. If they want a taste of happiness together, they’ll have to find the courage to break the bonds threatening to pull them apart.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2017
11 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
About the author
Ari McKay
72 books181 followersAri McKay is the professional pseudonym for Arionrhod and McKay, who collaborate on original m/m fiction. They began writing together in 2004 and finished their first original full length novel in 2011. Recently, they’ve begun collaborating on designing and creating costumes to wear and compete in at Sci Fi conventions, and they share a love of yarn and cake.
Arionrhod is an avid costumer, knitter, and all-around craft fiend, as well as a professional systems engineer. Mother of two human children and two dachshunds who think they are human, she is a voracious reader with wildly eclectic tastes, devouring romance novels, military science fiction, horror stories and Shakespeare with equal glee. She is currently preparing for the zombie apocalypse.
McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.
Arionrhod is an avid costumer, knitter, and all-around craft fiend, as well as a professional systems engineer. Mother of two human children and two dachshunds who think they are human, she is a voracious reader with wildly eclectic tastes, devouring romance novels, military science fiction, horror stories and Shakespeare with equal glee. She is currently preparing for the zombie apocalypse.
McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 11, 2017
3.5 Hearts
I LOVE chefs, cooking, cooking shows, the whole nine yards. One of my favorite movies is Chef with Jon Favreau because of that scene. You know the one.
That shit cracks me up every single time!
Anywhat, I mention all this because this book is very chefy and Liam had a Chef moment that landed him at an upstart resort in North Carolina on a sort of forced vacation. The resort is owned and operated by Carter Galloway. In short order, Liam takes over the kitchen because they're serving "swill" *cackle break* and things start to turn around for the resort quickly. If you're not big on the food biz this may not be your cuppa. Obviously, I thoroughly enjoyed that part and could talk your face off about the whole celebrity chef/NYC thing versus making a name for oneself outside of the Big Apple, but I'll be good and refrain. However, the romance kind of took a backseat, in my opinion
At one point I actually thought Rocky was going to be Liam's love interest rather than Carter. However, I did really like both of Liam and Carter and Rocky, for that matter. Carter and Liam become friends mostly because Carter isn't the hook up kind and he can't envision being happy in a long distance relationship since Liam in New York and Carter in North Carolina which I respected. He knows his limitations and was upfront about them, didn't play games but was also honest about his attraction to Liam.
This is definitely a slow burn, so slow I think I missed the burn part but somewhere in there they became attached. There's only one sex scene at the end that, honestly, I could've done without but I'm glad they got their HEA and I wouldn't be averse to continuing on with this series.
With regard to Bane's narration, I really like it! His Liam was great and I kept thinking he sounded like someone I know and then it clicked: Fred Thompson. Loved that guy's voice! All the characters were distinct and he brought enthusiasm to his narration. He's got kind of a rumbly thing happening that I dig.
Lastly, I'm not really sure how to word this but there were parts of it that felt patched(?) in, like, it wasn't all recorded continuously? The volume would vary during these times as though these passages were recorded elsewhere. IDK maybe somebody else who's listened to it can articulate it better than I, but it was kind of... odd and usually took me out of the story.
Nevertheless I still enjoyed this audiobook and would recommend it to foodies.
A review copy was provided.
I LOVE chefs, cooking, cooking shows, the whole nine yards. One of my favorite movies is Chef with Jon Favreau because of that scene. You know the one.
That shit cracks me up every single time!
Anywhat, I mention all this because this book is very chefy and Liam had a Chef moment that landed him at an upstart resort in North Carolina on a sort of forced vacation. The resort is owned and operated by Carter Galloway. In short order, Liam takes over the kitchen because they're serving "swill" *cackle break* and things start to turn around for the resort quickly. If you're not big on the food biz this may not be your cuppa. Obviously, I thoroughly enjoyed that part and could talk your face off about the whole celebrity chef/NYC thing versus making a name for oneself outside of the Big Apple, but I'll be good and refrain. However, the romance kind of took a backseat, in my opinion
At one point I actually thought Rocky was going to be Liam's love interest rather than Carter. However, I did really like both of Liam and Carter and Rocky, for that matter. Carter and Liam become friends mostly because Carter isn't the hook up kind and he can't envision being happy in a long distance relationship since Liam in New York and Carter in North Carolina which I respected. He knows his limitations and was upfront about them, didn't play games but was also honest about his attraction to Liam.
This is definitely a slow burn, so slow I think I missed the burn part but somewhere in there they became attached. There's only one sex scene at the end that, honestly, I could've done without but I'm glad they got their HEA and I wouldn't be averse to continuing on with this series.
With regard to Bane's narration, I really like it! His Liam was great and I kept thinking he sounded like someone I know and then it clicked: Fred Thompson. Loved that guy's voice! All the characters were distinct and he brought enthusiasm to his narration. He's got kind of a rumbly thing happening that I dig.
Lastly, I'm not really sure how to word this but there were parts of it that felt patched(?) in, like, it wasn't all recorded continuously? The volume would vary during these times as though these passages were recorded elsewhere. IDK maybe somebody else who's listened to it can articulate it better than I, but it was kind of... odd and usually took me out of the story.
Nevertheless I still enjoyed this audiobook and would recommend it to foodies.
A review copy was provided.
June 23, 2017
Audible
3,2 stars
You won't probably believe me, but I was kinda addicted to a TV show Rach, der Restauranttester , a real soap opera that was launched in Germany in 2005 and run for almost 10 years. Well, I wasn't interested in this TV program for that long, but I still can remember my exciting at the beginning when I waited for every episode once per week to see Rach, a celebrity star cook, acting as a troubleshooter to help a restaurant with problems to save it from bankruptcy. In only one week.
Breaking Bonds reminded me A LOT of this show. Only Chef Liam Walker isn't at the Overlook Resort in North Carolina on his rescue mission - he escaped from the heat and intrigues of New York City restaurant scene (in the first place from ONE special scandal) to cool down, to gather his thoughts, to forget and to gain new strength. But could he stay quiet and pretend that's none of his business when the meal he has been served and a view from his table doesn't match together.
But could he remain angry when he faces this friendly and sympathetic young man who came immediately after he asked for a manager and who happens to be an owner of this beautiful Resort middle in the picturesque nature? DIFFICULT. Carter is a wonderful character, it is not THAT unexpectedly that Liam feels compassion, sympathy and readiness to help. (Who doesn't ?!) Liam declares himself to help Carter with the restaurant for the time of his
stay in the Resort. Of course, Carter, has no idea that this attractive and competent OLDER stranger is a star chef from NY. And Liam, on his side, has no intent to give his undercover away.
BUT.
Is it possible for a star cook from New York City who can't imagine to live somewhere else and a young ambitious Resort's owner from a small town in North Carolina who can't give up his dream of a successful hotel business to be happy together? And if YES, then WHERE? New York or North Carolina?
Someone has to make a very important decision.
I enjoyed this story, it is a perfect quick read for those readers who likes slow burn with a little drama and characters who are ready to sacrifice their life dreams for love but have guts and a strong personality for not to sacrifice their principles for a momentum .
I think I COULD have enjoyed it more if the narrator COULD have convinced me MORE. I feel bad to complain about Dorian Bane , because he did actually a good job. He voiced differently Liam, Carter and other characters. He was/is actually VERY recognizable, he has a VERY striking voice. It is rather my personal problem than of the audio book. His Liam sounded just TOO old. He wasn't THAT old as he appeared in the audio book. But it is just one of my tiny problems with the audio book.
I think it is A MUST read for all MM romance readers.
Nice. Heartwarming. Sweet. Hopeful. Lovely.
***ARC provided by the publisher to GBR in exchange for an honest review. ***
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June 5, 2017 ♥ 5 Hearts ♥
THIS! This book right here is what the Dreamspun line is all about. This has it all and I am beginning to think that Ari McKay and I have a fantastic chemistry because I cannot get enough of their writing and the romance they bring to me. YES, to me because this book was made just for me!
Goodness. I love a slow burn romance and when you have a line like Dreamspun that produces instalove like Starbucks does coffee via drive-thru windows, it’s so refreshing to get the slow burn that can drive you crazy. Seriously, it was done so well that I just wanted to lock these boys in a closet or a broken walk-in freezer and not let them out until someone got off.
And yet… I wouldn’t have this story any other way than how I got it. It was, well? Perfect.
Liam Walker has spent the last 10 years of his life doing what he loves, cooking and becoming a chef to rock the culinary world that is New York City. With his mentor Marco Cabrisi at the helm of his career, Liam can’t lose but when a critic gets wind of Liam’s family and background, a negative review sets Liam off. His public encounter with the critic earns him a nickname he doesn’t like nor want and Marco encourages Liam to take some time off to get his head straight. A simple game of anywhere is better than here, leads Liam to the Smokey Mountains of North Carolina and the “rustic with heart” lodgings at the Overlook Resort.
Oh Liam. How I adore your gruff and persnickety manor when you head to the resorts restaurant and find your food lacking. The New York attitude you’ve acquired shows and yet when you demand an audience with whomever is in charge of letting the disgrace that was served to your table out of the kitchen, we see you thaw. Even if it’s just a bit.
The meet cute between Carter and Liam was perfect. You have Liam being an ass about food being and Carter, the owner of the Overlook acknowledging that he is in over his head with his current chef who has amazing potential to become a kickass chef but he can’t afford any better. Liam, ultimately reaches down into his soul that resides with the Walker family in Texas, offers to help Carter in the kitchen while he is there on vacation. Not the exact idea he had of relaxing and yet, this vacation was supposed to help Liam get his head straight and where else would he do that, but the place he loves… a kitchen.
From the first meet Liam and Carter have chemistry. It’s so good and gooey that I ate it up. When they men start to work together and hint around the topic of a fling, we know that they are both extremely interested in the other and while Liam is on board with simply enjoying one another as much as they can while he is there, Carter doesn’t do flings. He doesn’t do flings and we soon find out why and it all comes back to family and Carter has shit for it. Ugh. I don’t like his parents, I don’t like the guilt they have tossed on him about this choice of career and life. They suck. I’ll just leave it at that.
BUT, shitty family aside, Carter is a lovely man who is driven to conquer his dream of owning a successful resort. You can feel how much passion he has for the Overlook from how he remodeled yet did not modernize the rustic feel of the resort. You know how much he needs to succeed but his desire for all of it, mountains and balcony views included is what makes Carter such a wonderful character. His perchance for flirting with Liam is another one of his fine attributes but his follow through leaves me wanting and the wanting is not bad.
Through the weeks of Liam’s vacation at the Overlook, we see a new side of him the real side of the chef who loves cooking. As Liam takes on the basic training of the current chef – a young man named Rocky – Liam remembers and rekindles his love for culinary creations. The draw of Carter certainly helps along the way but Liam remains true to his word in every way including the one that will pull him far from Carter.
Oh yeah. This is not only a slow burn romance but it’s one that has this quiet appeal to it. While the UST is palatable, the way both men handle the attraction is so damn respectful and so damn romantic I couldn’t help but feel it. Not just reading the words but when we get to the pivotal scenes, the ones that really matter like the first kiss… goose bumps, a flushed face and all the sighs happened. There was even a moment that made me tear up between Carter and Liam and I was NOT expecting that in a book from a series known for fluff. This book turned up the Dreamspun notch a few levels with its emotional range and I can’t get enough.
Though the men stay true to their word of not having a fling, emotions turn into true feelings and when Liam has to honor obligations it becomes so damn bittersweet. It’s hard to follow your heart when your head butts in with reasons but if bonds are meant to be broken, there is nothing you can do but break them and run to the one that can heal your heart and head. In oh so many ways.
Okay. I’ll stop talking now though I have highlights and notes I haven’t even touched on. I loved Carter and Liam. I loved Carter. I loved Liam. I loved watching Liam teach Rocky and Liam dealing with Marco and Carter dealing with his dad. I adored how the men worked together to find a new blended dream of their own and dammit, I want to see that picture Liam has as his background. This book was so good, so romantic and so everything that I could go on forever but reading a rambling redheads’ review is now where I want you to be. I want you to read this book.
Breaking Bonds is a fantastic addition to the Dreamspun Desire series as well as the second book with one of the Walker boys. Beau is mentioned in this though we don’t get to see him but I would love more from the family because their support is always a welcomed bonus.
THIS! This book right here is what the Dreamspun line is all about. This has it all and I am beginning to think that Ari McKay and I have a fantastic chemistry because I cannot get enough of their writing and the romance they bring to me. YES, to me because this book was made just for me!
Goodness. I love a slow burn romance and when you have a line like Dreamspun that produces instalove like Starbucks does coffee via drive-thru windows, it’s so refreshing to get the slow burn that can drive you crazy. Seriously, it was done so well that I just wanted to lock these boys in a closet or a broken walk-in freezer and not let them out until someone got off.
And yet… I wouldn’t have this story any other way than how I got it. It was, well? Perfect.
Liam Walker has spent the last 10 years of his life doing what he loves, cooking and becoming a chef to rock the culinary world that is New York City. With his mentor Marco Cabrisi at the helm of his career, Liam can’t lose but when a critic gets wind of Liam’s family and background, a negative review sets Liam off. His public encounter with the critic earns him a nickname he doesn’t like nor want and Marco encourages Liam to take some time off to get his head straight. A simple game of anywhere is better than here, leads Liam to the Smokey Mountains of North Carolina and the “rustic with heart” lodgings at the Overlook Resort.
Oh Liam. How I adore your gruff and persnickety manor when you head to the resorts restaurant and find your food lacking. The New York attitude you’ve acquired shows and yet when you demand an audience with whomever is in charge of letting the disgrace that was served to your table out of the kitchen, we see you thaw. Even if it’s just a bit.
The meet cute between Carter and Liam was perfect. You have Liam being an ass about food being and Carter, the owner of the Overlook acknowledging that he is in over his head with his current chef who has amazing potential to become a kickass chef but he can’t afford any better. Liam, ultimately reaches down into his soul that resides with the Walker family in Texas, offers to help Carter in the kitchen while he is there on vacation. Not the exact idea he had of relaxing and yet, this vacation was supposed to help Liam get his head straight and where else would he do that, but the place he loves… a kitchen.
From the first meet Liam and Carter have chemistry. It’s so good and gooey that I ate it up. When they men start to work together and hint around the topic of a fling, we know that they are both extremely interested in the other and while Liam is on board with simply enjoying one another as much as they can while he is there, Carter doesn’t do flings. He doesn’t do flings and we soon find out why and it all comes back to family and Carter has shit for it. Ugh. I don’t like his parents, I don’t like the guilt they have tossed on him about this choice of career and life. They suck. I’ll just leave it at that.
BUT, shitty family aside, Carter is a lovely man who is driven to conquer his dream of owning a successful resort. You can feel how much passion he has for the Overlook from how he remodeled yet did not modernize the rustic feel of the resort. You know how much he needs to succeed but his desire for all of it, mountains and balcony views included is what makes Carter such a wonderful character. His perchance for flirting with Liam is another one of his fine attributes but his follow through leaves me wanting and the wanting is not bad.
Through the weeks of Liam’s vacation at the Overlook, we see a new side of him the real side of the chef who loves cooking. As Liam takes on the basic training of the current chef – a young man named Rocky – Liam remembers and rekindles his love for culinary creations. The draw of Carter certainly helps along the way but Liam remains true to his word in every way including the one that will pull him far from Carter.
Oh yeah. This is not only a slow burn romance but it’s one that has this quiet appeal to it. While the UST is palatable, the way both men handle the attraction is so damn respectful and so damn romantic I couldn’t help but feel it. Not just reading the words but when we get to the pivotal scenes, the ones that really matter like the first kiss… goose bumps, a flushed face and all the sighs happened. There was even a moment that made me tear up between Carter and Liam and I was NOT expecting that in a book from a series known for fluff. This book turned up the Dreamspun notch a few levels with its emotional range and I can’t get enough.
Though the men stay true to their word of not having a fling, emotions turn into true feelings and when Liam has to honor obligations it becomes so damn bittersweet. It’s hard to follow your heart when your head butts in with reasons but if bonds are meant to be broken, there is nothing you can do but break them and run to the one that can heal your heart and head. In oh so many ways.
Okay. I’ll stop talking now though I have highlights and notes I haven’t even touched on. I loved Carter and Liam. I loved Carter. I loved Liam. I loved watching Liam teach Rocky and Liam dealing with Marco and Carter dealing with his dad. I adored how the men worked together to find a new blended dream of their own and dammit, I want to see that picture Liam has as his background. This book was so good, so romantic and so everything that I could go on forever but reading a rambling redheads’ review is now where I want you to be. I want you to read this book.
Breaking Bonds is a fantastic addition to the Dreamspun Desire series as well as the second book with one of the Walker boys. Beau is mentioned in this though we don’t get to see him but I would love more from the family because their support is always a welcomed bonus.
June 4, 2017
3.75 stars rounded up
Well, that's two for two in regards to Ari McKay's Dreamspun Desires story for me. It was sweet, gentle and successfully reminded me of MF category romance I read in my teen years.
Liam Walker is a successful chef in New York City, a protégé of the famous Marco Cabrisi, a celebrity chef with chains of restaurants (I think this might be a fictional version of Chef Marco Pierre White?). Recently Liam is involved in a scandal after sucker-punched a food critic who gives a scathing review for his restaurant. So after being advised to get some time away, Liam finds himself in Overlook, a resort nestled in Smoky Mountains in North Carolina.
Carter Galloway is the owner of Overlook. He is determined to make the resort successful because his career depends on it. Considered as a rebel, where his parents wants him to be a lawyer, Carter needs to prove that he can do it -- to reach his dream in hospitality industry. But he is a little overwhelmed when apparently the resort's restaurant, which Carter envisions as being one of the main attractions, doesn't perform like he wishes.
First of all, may I say that I loved how the title here pretty much described the struggle between our main characters, Liam and Carter? That they have to break bonds that has stops them from reaching the full happiness, even if they are not completely aware of it.
Liam might think that his dream is to make it in New York, to have his own restaurant. But there is bond that ties him with Marco, one that Liam first thinks as obligation and loyalty. However when he takes over the Overlook's restaurant, taking an understudy of his own, he starts wondering whether he is dreaming the right thing.
While Carter's bond is his attempt to still try pleasing his parents. Still trying to be a good son, even if that stops him from building a relationship with Liam, since Carter refuses to do flings or even long-distance relationship.
So this is pretty much a low-steam slow burn romance that just WORKED well for me. I particularly LOVED it when Liam was in the kitchen, teaching the young Rocky (who previously the chef there), making friends with other staffs, and of course getting closer to Carter. I loved Carter for being brave enough to take first step of his own dream, even if the shadow of his parents still influences his decision in personal life. The resort setting gives a sense of intimacy and quietness that I also enjoyed very much.
All in all, it has been a wonderful read :).
Well, that's two for two in regards to Ari McKay's Dreamspun Desires story for me. It was sweet, gentle and successfully reminded me of MF category romance I read in my teen years.
Liam Walker is a successful chef in New York City, a protégé of the famous Marco Cabrisi, a celebrity chef with chains of restaurants (I think this might be a fictional version of Chef Marco Pierre White?). Recently Liam is involved in a scandal after sucker-punched a food critic who gives a scathing review for his restaurant. So after being advised to get some time away, Liam finds himself in Overlook, a resort nestled in Smoky Mountains in North Carolina.
Carter Galloway is the owner of Overlook. He is determined to make the resort successful because his career depends on it. Considered as a rebel, where his parents wants him to be a lawyer, Carter needs to prove that he can do it -- to reach his dream in hospitality industry. But he is a little overwhelmed when apparently the resort's restaurant, which Carter envisions as being one of the main attractions, doesn't perform like he wishes.
First of all, may I say that I loved how the title here pretty much described the struggle between our main characters, Liam and Carter? That they have to break bonds that has stops them from reaching the full happiness, even if they are not completely aware of it.
Liam might think that his dream is to make it in New York, to have his own restaurant. But there is bond that ties him with Marco, one that Liam first thinks as obligation and loyalty. However when he takes over the Overlook's restaurant, taking an understudy of his own, he starts wondering whether he is dreaming the right thing.
While Carter's bond is his attempt to still try pleasing his parents. Still trying to be a good son, even if that stops him from building a relationship with Liam, since Carter refuses to do flings or even long-distance relationship.
So this is pretty much a low-steam slow burn romance that just WORKED well for me. I particularly LOVED it when Liam was in the kitchen, teaching the young Rocky (who previously the chef there), making friends with other staffs, and of course getting closer to Carter. I loved Carter for being brave enough to take first step of his own dream, even if the shadow of his parents still influences his decision in personal life. The resort setting gives a sense of intimacy and quietness that I also enjoyed very much.
All in all, it has been a wonderful read :).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2017
The writing duo known as Ari McKay is new to me, so Breaking Bonds was the first chance I’ve had to enjoy their work. The second in their "The Walker Boys" series this is easily read as a standalone.
Initially drawn to this one because it was narrated by Dorian Bane, and he’s never let me down, I found this book to be much more than I expected.
The story is full of wonderful surprises: The characters are creative, the relationships are interesting, and there is an original story with a great message as well.
When big city chef Liam Walker has a complete meltdown he decides a little R&R might be in order. He escapes to a struggling little resort in the mountains of North Carolina, where there is a serious need for some help in the kitchen. Liam’s attraction to the resort’s owner, Carter Galloway, is immediate (and mutual). Carter helps Liam reexamine his priorities and see there’s more to life than fame and fortune.
Carter is a strong character, sticking true to his values against all the odds. Facing prejudice, insufficient finances, and an inexperienced staff, Carter sets out to do his best. When an unexpected visit from his parents shows Carter he will never live up to his family’s expectations, he summons the strength to overcome this devastation and remain true to himself and hold fast to his goals.
There is an entertaining group of secondary characters which make this story so enjoyable.
Dorian Bane always excels at providing a wide variety of voices and this is the best I’ve heard from him to date.
The staff at the lodge are adorable, and I particularly enjoy the voice Bane uses for Marco, the restaurant owner and Liam’s boss, from New York City.
There’s a lovely message in this book about being true to oneself, prioritizing goals, and finding happiness in life. The authors paint a beautiful picture of the mountains of North Carolina which adds to the tale and comes across nicely with Bane’s expressive voice.
There was a smile on my face through this entire narration and I highly recommend Breaking Bonds to anyone who just wants a pick-me-up.
It is a really fun, sweet story.
Initially drawn to this one because it was narrated by Dorian Bane, and he’s never let me down, I found this book to be much more than I expected.
The story is full of wonderful surprises: The characters are creative, the relationships are interesting, and there is an original story with a great message as well.
When big city chef Liam Walker has a complete meltdown he decides a little R&R might be in order. He escapes to a struggling little resort in the mountains of North Carolina, where there is a serious need for some help in the kitchen. Liam’s attraction to the resort’s owner, Carter Galloway, is immediate (and mutual). Carter helps Liam reexamine his priorities and see there’s more to life than fame and fortune.
Carter is a strong character, sticking true to his values against all the odds. Facing prejudice, insufficient finances, and an inexperienced staff, Carter sets out to do his best. When an unexpected visit from his parents shows Carter he will never live up to his family’s expectations, he summons the strength to overcome this devastation and remain true to himself and hold fast to his goals.
There is an entertaining group of secondary characters which make this story so enjoyable.
Dorian Bane always excels at providing a wide variety of voices and this is the best I’ve heard from him to date.
The staff at the lodge are adorable, and I particularly enjoy the voice Bane uses for Marco, the restaurant owner and Liam’s boss, from New York City.
There’s a lovely message in this book about being true to oneself, prioritizing goals, and finding happiness in life. The authors paint a beautiful picture of the mountains of North Carolina which adds to the tale and comes across nicely with Bane’s expressive voice.
There was a smile on my face through this entire narration and I highly recommend Breaking Bonds to anyone who just wants a pick-me-up.
It is a really fun, sweet story.
August 18, 2020
‘Breaking Bonds’ is an entrancing look at what can happen when achieving a goal becomes so all-consuming that any other considerations, such as a social life or personal happiness, no longer seem relevant. The author takes a look at the work-life balance of two men who are each driven to be successful for different reasons, and both have ended up unhappy on a personal level – if they even let themselves think about it between all the hectic activity to further their careers. For both men, it is essential to break those bonds of their own making if they want to be truly happy, and only meeting each other and changing their priorities will make that happen.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 31, 2017
~ Narration Rating 5 Stars ~
Liam Walker is an up and coming New York Chef with a humble background. When that background is held against him by one of New York’s premier food critics, Liam cannot withhold a proper response—with his fist.
Carter Galloway has several goals: to own and operate a Carolina resort hotel, and to have its restaurant be an attraction in its own right. Two things hold him back, though—a less than capable chef, and parents who would rather he be a straight lawyer than a gay man who owns a lowly hotel in the mountains.
When Liam decamps from the high stress New York Food world to recharge, he stumbles upon the Overlook. In short order, he berates the young chef, the resort owner, and anyone else in hearing range, for serving obviously sub-par food.
Sparks of contention are not the only things that flay between the owner and the bad boy chef. Everyone around them can see Liam and Carter falling for one another, but Carter wants a full life, not a long-distance thing that will only lead to heartbreak. Liam needs to blow off steam, but this one time he, too, wants more than just a bit of paradise. He has just realized that he wants a lifetime to love the right man.
Dorian Bane narrates this slow burn romance with aplomb. There is not one thing to fault here. Those familiar with his voice work already know he does southern and southwestern accents like few others. He gives us credible accents from the North Carolina mountains and from Texas, where Liam grew up, without muddling accents or making them caricatures or clichés. The deepening feelings between Liam and Carter are carried off just right. When it comes time for the HEA that all romances require, we are not disappointed with the action, either.
Secondary characters are given their due as well. From the affable but inexperienced young chef of the Overlook, to Carter’s overbearing and wholly unlikeable parents, to various hotel staff, and also with Liam’s mentor who feels he is owed Liam’s complete career. Excitement, disappointment, and attraction are conveyed nicely here without any of it being overbearing. Breaking Bonds is part of the Dreamspun Desires romance world, so some things are a given, but there are nice surprises in this book as well. Even though it refers to a previous book, you need not read it to enjoy this one, though you may want to go back and read/listen to the first Walker Boys book, Striking Sparks.
Buy this book for the fine story and excellent narration. Buy it if you’re a true romance lover who enjoys the HEA and the ride to getting there. You will enjoy this book if you like romance, southern settings, or a slow burn, all of which are fully enjoyable here.
Reviewed by Mike for The Novel Approach
Liam Walker is an up and coming New York Chef with a humble background. When that background is held against him by one of New York’s premier food critics, Liam cannot withhold a proper response—with his fist.
Carter Galloway has several goals: to own and operate a Carolina resort hotel, and to have its restaurant be an attraction in its own right. Two things hold him back, though—a less than capable chef, and parents who would rather he be a straight lawyer than a gay man who owns a lowly hotel in the mountains.
When Liam decamps from the high stress New York Food world to recharge, he stumbles upon the Overlook. In short order, he berates the young chef, the resort owner, and anyone else in hearing range, for serving obviously sub-par food.
Sparks of contention are not the only things that flay between the owner and the bad boy chef. Everyone around them can see Liam and Carter falling for one another, but Carter wants a full life, not a long-distance thing that will only lead to heartbreak. Liam needs to blow off steam, but this one time he, too, wants more than just a bit of paradise. He has just realized that he wants a lifetime to love the right man.
Dorian Bane narrates this slow burn romance with aplomb. There is not one thing to fault here. Those familiar with his voice work already know he does southern and southwestern accents like few others. He gives us credible accents from the North Carolina mountains and from Texas, where Liam grew up, without muddling accents or making them caricatures or clichés. The deepening feelings between Liam and Carter are carried off just right. When it comes time for the HEA that all romances require, we are not disappointed with the action, either.
Secondary characters are given their due as well. From the affable but inexperienced young chef of the Overlook, to Carter’s overbearing and wholly unlikeable parents, to various hotel staff, and also with Liam’s mentor who feels he is owed Liam’s complete career. Excitement, disappointment, and attraction are conveyed nicely here without any of it being overbearing. Breaking Bonds is part of the Dreamspun Desires romance world, so some things are a given, but there are nice surprises in this book as well. Even though it refers to a previous book, you need not read it to enjoy this one, though you may want to go back and read/listen to the first Walker Boys book, Striking Sparks.
Buy this book for the fine story and excellent narration. Buy it if you’re a true romance lover who enjoys the HEA and the ride to getting there. You will enjoy this book if you like romance, southern settings, or a slow burn, all of which are fully enjoyable here.
Reviewed by Mike for The Novel Approach
August 18, 2020
‘Breaking Bonds’ is an entrancing look at what can happen when achieving a goal becomes so all-consuming that any other considerations, such as a social life or personal happiness, no longer seem relevant. The author takes a look at the work-life balance of two men who are each driven to be successful for different reasons, and both have ended up unhappy on a personal level – if they even let themselves think about it between all the hectic activity to further their careers. For both men, it is essential to break those bonds of their own making if they want to be truly happy, and only meeting each other and changing their priorities will make that happen.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
June 1, 2017
4.5 stars, people!
It's no secret that I have loved almost all the books in the Dreamspun Desires series, havingread devoured every single one, and this latest by Ari McKay was no exception.
Liam Walker, almost-famous NYC celebrity chef, cousin to Beau (from Striking Sparks), is in a resort/hotel near Asheville, NC, licking his wounds from a bad review he got that prompted him to punch the reviewer, in public, in the face. Served a less than mediocre meal at the resort, Liam doesn't hold back in his disgust with the frozen and clearly not fresh shrimp he's being served, and demands to talk to the manager.
Enter Carter Galloway, owner/manager of the resort, having distanced himself from his overbearing father and mother, barely holding it together, what with bills and old appliances and needing to succeed so he can finally break away completely from his father's demands and expectations.
Sparks fly at first sight. This is also right about the time where the reader needs to suspend all disbelief, as Liam offers his services to Carter to help out in the kitchen and train the young chef currently employed. For free. Because that's what a celebrity chef would do, right?
Whatever, I went with it. Because at that point, I was already invested in the characters and needed to find out what would happen next.
So the sparks are definitely there, but Liam is planning to return to NYC and Carter isn't interested in a fling. Liam cooks and teaches and longs for Carter, and Carter longs and watches and shares pieces of himself with Liam.
I liked both characters, despite Liam's initial arrogance, and I enjoyed how both of them had personal struggles to overcome. The title is apt - both of them have to break free of their bonds to others before they can have their HEA.
It's low steam, which I don't mind at all, but the UST just jumps off the pages, and when they finally, finally get together, it was well-fought for and ever so awesome. Liam at times seems a bit more sophisticated than Carter, but I think that was also part of Carter's charm - he's not a simpleton, for sure, but more laid-back, kind and generous, with a lot of respect and fairness in his heart.
There's a lot of talk about food, naturally, which often made me salivate, and I thought that the food choices worked well for the type of location represented here. This wasn't a hot spot NYC restaurant catering to celebs, but a resort-style place that catered to locals and tourists alike.
I liked quite a bit that Carter seemed to find his backbone in this story, and the courage to stand up to his parents, not allowing them to continue to berate him and demean his choices. He did so a little quicker than Liam, for whom the moment of clarity arrives at a later time, but bolstered by what he might have waiting for him in the mountains of NC. Their romance was believable within the setting of this book and worked well within the tropes employed here.
The requisite villains in this story, in the form of Carter's father and Liam's boss/mentor, were somewhat one-dimensional, but served their purpose. I thought that Marco, Liam's boss, was smarmy, self-serving, and rude, and Carter's father (and mother by extension) was nothing more than a stereotypical homophobic control freak who decided what his son would be and was then belligerent and condescending when his son chooses his own path.
The book utilizes the expected tropes rather well, and I thought it was a perfect addition to this harlequin-like series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and if you like the sweet, fluffy, and easy-read romances, this is definitely a book for you.
Recommended.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
It's no secret that I have loved almost all the books in the Dreamspun Desires series, having
Liam Walker, almost-famous NYC celebrity chef, cousin to Beau (from Striking Sparks), is in a resort/hotel near Asheville, NC, licking his wounds from a bad review he got that prompted him to punch the reviewer, in public, in the face. Served a less than mediocre meal at the resort, Liam doesn't hold back in his disgust with the frozen and clearly not fresh shrimp he's being served, and demands to talk to the manager.
Enter Carter Galloway, owner/manager of the resort, having distanced himself from his overbearing father and mother, barely holding it together, what with bills and old appliances and needing to succeed so he can finally break away completely from his father's demands and expectations.
Sparks fly at first sight. This is also right about the time where the reader needs to suspend all disbelief, as Liam offers his services to Carter to help out in the kitchen and train the young chef currently employed. For free. Because that's what a celebrity chef would do, right?
Whatever, I went with it. Because at that point, I was already invested in the characters and needed to find out what would happen next.
So the sparks are definitely there, but Liam is planning to return to NYC and Carter isn't interested in a fling. Liam cooks and teaches and longs for Carter, and Carter longs and watches and shares pieces of himself with Liam.
I liked both characters, despite Liam's initial arrogance, and I enjoyed how both of them had personal struggles to overcome. The title is apt - both of them have to break free of their bonds to others before they can have their HEA.
It's low steam, which I don't mind at all, but the UST just jumps off the pages, and when they finally, finally get together, it was well-fought for and ever so awesome. Liam at times seems a bit more sophisticated than Carter, but I think that was also part of Carter's charm - he's not a simpleton, for sure, but more laid-back, kind and generous, with a lot of respect and fairness in his heart.
There's a lot of talk about food, naturally, which often made me salivate, and I thought that the food choices worked well for the type of location represented here. This wasn't a hot spot NYC restaurant catering to celebs, but a resort-style place that catered to locals and tourists alike.
I liked quite a bit that Carter seemed to find his backbone in this story, and the courage to stand up to his parents, not allowing them to continue to berate him and demean his choices. He did so a little quicker than Liam, for whom the moment of clarity arrives at a later time, but bolstered by what he might have waiting for him in the mountains of NC. Their romance was believable within the setting of this book and worked well within the tropes employed here.
The requisite villains in this story, in the form of Carter's father and Liam's boss/mentor, were somewhat one-dimensional, but served their purpose. I thought that Marco, Liam's boss, was smarmy, self-serving, and rude, and Carter's father (and mother by extension) was nothing more than a stereotypical homophobic control freak who decided what his son would be and was then belligerent and condescending when his son chooses his own path.
The book utilizes the expected tropes rather well, and I thought it was a perfect addition to this harlequin-like series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and if you like the sweet, fluffy, and easy-read romances, this is definitely a book for you.
Recommended.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
October 19, 2017
Despite of a fan fiction of Marco Pierre White in Marco the arrogant chef, it's quite enjoyable.
Running away from people who judged you is not easy, especially if you didn't really know what you're looking for. Is it your dreams, or not?
Longed to be the best chef in New York, Liam in fact only the shadow of the arrogant master of manipulation, Marco, his mentor.
And then he met Carter on his getaway, and everything seemed even more confusing.
What is it he's looking for in life? Name of happiness?
Is New York really his dream? Is Marco really worth all his sacrifices of happiness (after he met Carter). Because Carter is very determined for what he wanted in a relationship, and Liam couldn't give him that.
There's a little angst (just a low portion). a little sadness and doubts.
A little cheesy at the end of the story, but this is a fun read, especially when you enjoyed stories with chef and cooking, some recipes, a low angst sweet romance, this is for you.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press. Thanks Hayley!
Running away from people who judged you is not easy, especially if you didn't really know what you're looking for. Is it your dreams, or not?
Longed to be the best chef in New York, Liam in fact only the shadow of the arrogant master of manipulation, Marco, his mentor.
And then he met Carter on his getaway, and everything seemed even more confusing.
What is it he's looking for in life? Name of happiness?
Is New York really his dream? Is Marco really worth all his sacrifices of happiness (after he met Carter). Because Carter is very determined for what he wanted in a relationship, and Liam couldn't give him that.
There's a little angst (just a low portion). a little sadness and doubts.
A little cheesy at the end of the story, but this is a fun read, especially when you enjoyed stories with chef and cooking, some recipes, a low angst sweet romance, this is for you.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press. Thanks Hayley!
May 27, 2017
3.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is a very sweet, very simple low heat romance. As a Dreamspun Desires story, the format and tropes are borrowed from traditional Harlequin style romance.
Liam is a big city celebrity chef taking a break in the mountains when he runs into resort owner Carter and offers to help him sort out his resort’s restaurant. While sparks fly between Carter and Liam, Liam is ambitious and tied to New York while equally ambitious Carter is tied to his mountain resort. Both characters are charming and attractive but they are simply drawn - at times they are almost types rather than individual leading men. The romance simmered slowly in the background of this story but with the nearly sex-free low angst format, I found it difficult to fully believe in the connection between Liam and Carter.
The food in this story made me hungry but it also felt quite dated. Today’s Michelin star restaurants usually serve a combination of obscure and locally foraged ingredients, elaborate food chemistry experimentation and exquisite presentation. The comparatively mundane steaks, tartlets, risottos and caesar salads in this book belonged at a 1990’s wedding reception, not at a contemporary high end restaurant.
This definitely isn’t a story that needs too much scrutiny. It is fluffy, sweet and entertaining. It’s a quick easy read. Where some of the other Dreamspun Desires books have played with the Harlequin tropes and some have gently poked fun at the genre, this story takes itself seriously and it follows the genre conventions carefully. And the result is two attractive men kept apart by circumstance, some very appetising food and a beautiful mountain resort.
May 31, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words review
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-aGH on 6/1
From that review: " Breaking Bonds by Ari McKay is the second in The Walker Boys series and my favorite so far. For me, Breaking Bonds has everything the first one, Striking Sparks, didn't. From the gorgeous setting in the Smokies (a favorite location of mine) near Asheville to the mouthwatering food descriptions and finally to the great chemistry between two layered MCs, Breaking Bonds has exactly what I look for in a sweet contemporary romance..."
For all our reviews, author interviews and things books, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-aGH on 6/1
From that review: " Breaking Bonds by Ari McKay is the second in The Walker Boys series and my favorite so far. For me, Breaking Bonds has everything the first one, Striking Sparks, didn't. From the gorgeous setting in the Smokies (a favorite location of mine) near Asheville to the mouthwatering food descriptions and finally to the great chemistry between two layered MCs, Breaking Bonds has exactly what I look for in a sweet contemporary romance..."
For all our reviews, author interviews and things books, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
February 6, 2020
Chefs, wonderful views and a delightful slow burn.
I loved this second book, too. It tore me apart how much Liam and Carter wanted each other so much but were unable to act on their attraction because of their respective dreams tugging them in opposite directionsn it was pretty disheartening at times...
But of course the book comes with a wonderful HEA and also a (maybe petty but very satisfying) dose of revenge!
I loved this second book, too. It tore me apart how much Liam and Carter wanted each other so much but were unable to act on their attraction because of their respective dreams tugging them in opposite directionsn it was pretty disheartening at times...
But of course the book comes with a wonderful HEA and also a (maybe petty but very satisfying) dose of revenge!
June 2, 2021
I *adored* this story. It's the perfectly paced slow burn, with the love between Liam and Carter simmering to perfection. The North Carolina settling swept me away, as did the flavors of found family and pushing to make the life you want to lead without needing the approval of parents or mentors. There's a lot of good food and I really enjoyed how both MCs careers were important to this story. I especially recommend the audio version, the voice work is superb and brought the characters to life. I ate this story up with a spoon and I bet you'll think it's delicious too!
August 23, 2017
"Cooking up a romance"
Overall
Performance
Story
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
Yes. It's sweet and fun and Dorian Bane always brings the stories to life.
What did you like best about this story?
I like the foodie theme. I love stories about chefs and this didn't disappoint
Have you listened to any of Dorian Bane’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
Yes. I love Dorian Bane and never turn down an opportunity to hear one of his performances.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
No, not really. The story is just a sweet simple low heat romance. It's like hot cocoa. A nice warming story!
Any additional comments?
I love the Dreamspun Desires stories and this is no exception. Breaking Bonds is a sweet romance with a chef theme. I love sex chefs and this story hit the spot!
If you like chefs, resort owners and a low heat romance you will love this
Overall
Performance
Story
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
Yes. It's sweet and fun and Dorian Bane always brings the stories to life.
What did you like best about this story?
I like the foodie theme. I love stories about chefs and this didn't disappoint
Have you listened to any of Dorian Bane’s other performances before? How does this one compare?
Yes. I love Dorian Bane and never turn down an opportunity to hear one of his performances.
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
No, not really. The story is just a sweet simple low heat romance. It's like hot cocoa. A nice warming story!
Any additional comments?
I love the Dreamspun Desires stories and this is no exception. Breaking Bonds is a sweet romance with a chef theme. I love sex chefs and this story hit the spot!
If you like chefs, resort owners and a low heat romance you will love this
October 15, 2018
I loved this. Especially Carter. He's just the sweetest thing ever!
If any of you have ever worked in a restaurant, you know a bad review can be the worst. Especially if you've made it your life. I empathized with this book in so many ways. And it was so good. Anger, love, redemption, and learning what is really important in life.
Liam’s bad review put him in a bad place. It made him question everything. All he wanted was to be the best and start his own restaurant. But now he doesn't know if he's good enough. He takes a vacation where he ends up in a resort restaurant and he has no idea his life is about to change. He sends for the owner/manager to complain about his meal and learns Carter is barely keeping it together. Carter wants to prove to himself and his douchebag parents that he can take this resort and make it work. But everything is stacked against him. Until Liam. Liam offers to help him in the kitchen for free. They work out a deal where Liam will help in many situations and help Carter realize his dream. Liam thought he could do what he loved and help at the same time. Maybe find someone to scratch his itch on the side. But what he doesn't count on is the feelings he's developing for Carter. Or that he is wanting Carter to succeed as much as Carter does. When it's time for him to go back home, he's not wanting to. But he knows he has to. He also learns some things that open his eyes to what's really going on. And he's not happy.
Man I would probably act as bad as Liam did if I had a review like he did when I was working in restaurants. Some of those critics are such butts. Of course, Liam is a bit hot headed and cocky as well, but to get where he is as a chef, you can be a little cocky. What redeemed Liam for me was how he helped Carter. He did it without expecting anything in return. He knows what it's like to be at the bottom and trying to get your business off the ground. He used money of his own to buy new things and repair stuff that needed to be done. The only reason he made a deal with Carter on payments or whatever is because Carter wouldn't take no for an answer. But to give that selflessly was so sweet. And Carter is just a doll to me. He's just this little bundle of positive. He tries so hard. He tries to keep everyone happy and going. And it's surprising considering what douches his parents are. Oh gah. And Liam lol. Knight in shining armor. I wanted these two together so bad. They just complimented each other so well. You'll have to read to find out how it ends. Heehee.
It's another great book. I'm loving this series. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
If any of you have ever worked in a restaurant, you know a bad review can be the worst. Especially if you've made it your life. I empathized with this book in so many ways. And it was so good. Anger, love, redemption, and learning what is really important in life.
Liam’s bad review put him in a bad place. It made him question everything. All he wanted was to be the best and start his own restaurant. But now he doesn't know if he's good enough. He takes a vacation where he ends up in a resort restaurant and he has no idea his life is about to change. He sends for the owner/manager to complain about his meal and learns Carter is barely keeping it together. Carter wants to prove to himself and his douchebag parents that he can take this resort and make it work. But everything is stacked against him. Until Liam. Liam offers to help him in the kitchen for free. They work out a deal where Liam will help in many situations and help Carter realize his dream. Liam thought he could do what he loved and help at the same time. Maybe find someone to scratch his itch on the side. But what he doesn't count on is the feelings he's developing for Carter. Or that he is wanting Carter to succeed as much as Carter does. When it's time for him to go back home, he's not wanting to. But he knows he has to. He also learns some things that open his eyes to what's really going on. And he's not happy.
Man I would probably act as bad as Liam did if I had a review like he did when I was working in restaurants. Some of those critics are such butts. Of course, Liam is a bit hot headed and cocky as well, but to get where he is as a chef, you can be a little cocky. What redeemed Liam for me was how he helped Carter. He did it without expecting anything in return. He knows what it's like to be at the bottom and trying to get your business off the ground. He used money of his own to buy new things and repair stuff that needed to be done. The only reason he made a deal with Carter on payments or whatever is because Carter wouldn't take no for an answer. But to give that selflessly was so sweet. And Carter is just a doll to me. He's just this little bundle of positive. He tries so hard. He tries to keep everyone happy and going. And it's surprising considering what douches his parents are. Oh gah. And Liam lol. Knight in shining armor. I wanted these two together so bad. They just complimented each other so well. You'll have to read to find out how it ends. Heehee.
It's another great book. I'm loving this series. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
December 3, 2017
Reviewed on The Blogger Girls
4.5 stars
I LOVED Striking Sparks when I read it last year so when I saw there was a sequel? Oh man, I jumped at the chance to read it! This one is about Beau’s cousin, Liam, who’s a big time city chef who just had a bad review and needs some time off to get out of the kitchen. When he picks a random place in North Carolina, he just wants to relax but the first time he eats at the resort kitchen, he can’t help but demand better service from the owner. As soon as he meets Carter, he feels a bit bad for the guy and before he knows it, he’s offered to help out in the kitchen until things pick up for Carter. The more time he spends in the kitchen, the more he realizes what cooking is all about and the more he gets to know Carter. But Carter won’t do flings and Liam has a life back in New York. When things heat up in and out of the kitchen, will they be able to find a way to make it work?
I absolutely ADORED this story! At first, I wasn’t sure what to think because Liam starts off really needing anger management, IMO, lol. But when he first meets Carter, I fell in love with them both. It’s obvious Carter is in over his head but Liam’s heart melts just a little bit and he doesn’t know why but he offers to help Carter. I LOVED that he did that. He’s starts off cold and aloof but then turns into this passionate, sweet guy. As for Carter, he’s so vulnerable and almost insecure at first but he becomes so confident by the end and I just loved him with Liam.
My only issue was Carter’s parents and Liam’s mentor. I felt like their roles were a little forced at times. I didn’t really understand why Carter’s parents would come visit if they didn’t approve of what he was doing and he really didn’t have contact with them. And Liam’s mentor was obviously a manipulative guy from the first time he was mentioned. I’m surprised Liam didn’t realize it either.
Overall, I loved this book! I loved the chemistry between Liam and Carter and I loved that this was a slow-burn story. I was so fascinated from the start and I just couldn’t get enough of them dancing around each other. Definitely give this a go if you enjoyed Striking Sparks. I hope we see more of the Walker clan soon!
4.5 stars
I LOVED Striking Sparks when I read it last year so when I saw there was a sequel? Oh man, I jumped at the chance to read it! This one is about Beau’s cousin, Liam, who’s a big time city chef who just had a bad review and needs some time off to get out of the kitchen. When he picks a random place in North Carolina, he just wants to relax but the first time he eats at the resort kitchen, he can’t help but demand better service from the owner. As soon as he meets Carter, he feels a bit bad for the guy and before he knows it, he’s offered to help out in the kitchen until things pick up for Carter. The more time he spends in the kitchen, the more he realizes what cooking is all about and the more he gets to know Carter. But Carter won’t do flings and Liam has a life back in New York. When things heat up in and out of the kitchen, will they be able to find a way to make it work?
I absolutely ADORED this story! At first, I wasn’t sure what to think because Liam starts off really needing anger management, IMO, lol. But when he first meets Carter, I fell in love with them both. It’s obvious Carter is in over his head but Liam’s heart melts just a little bit and he doesn’t know why but he offers to help Carter. I LOVED that he did that. He’s starts off cold and aloof but then turns into this passionate, sweet guy. As for Carter, he’s so vulnerable and almost insecure at first but he becomes so confident by the end and I just loved him with Liam.
My only issue was Carter’s parents and Liam’s mentor. I felt like their roles were a little forced at times. I didn’t really understand why Carter’s parents would come visit if they didn’t approve of what he was doing and he really didn’t have contact with them. And Liam’s mentor was obviously a manipulative guy from the first time he was mentioned. I’m surprised Liam didn’t realize it either.
Overall, I loved this book! I loved the chemistry between Liam and Carter and I loved that this was a slow-burn story. I was so fascinated from the start and I just couldn’t get enough of them dancing around each other. Definitely give this a go if you enjoyed Striking Sparks. I hope we see more of the Walker clan soon!
April 4, 2020
Breaking Bonds is the second book in ‘The Walker Boys’ series. The stars are Chef Liam Walker a successful chef in New York City, and Carter Calloway, owner of Overlook Resort in North Carolina. This story is told in third person from both Liam and Carter’s pov.
I received a copy of this book from the authors for an honest and unbiased review.
I received a copy of this book from the authors for an honest and unbiased review.
August 23, 2017
3 What Happened Stars
The premise of this book sounds… delicious. I love a good chef story and this one had it in SPADES. The book starts out with a chef on vacation blowing up at the owner of the hotel/restaurant he was eating at because the food was horrible. I wasn’t quite sure I was into being rude for rude’s sake, but it ended up not as bad as I thought and was the beginning of a great opportunity for both men.
As mentioned, I love a good chef story – and this one had moments of time in the kitchen and the long hours and the passion for food. But the story itself felt bland. The dialogue was stilted and awkward – something felt off with the sentence structure and words, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. In addition, neither character had any real depth. There were moments of almost there depth, but nothing penetrated. It felt like I was being told about their depth instead of experiencing it. For example, Carter has a difficult family (to say the least) – but we never really got to dig in deep with the hurt there. Just that he wanted to make them proud and told them off. Lots felt missing.
Overall, if you like a chef story, this could be a good read for you – but it’s a high-level plot driven story, with a narrow plot that shows itself within the first few pages. Not that that’s always a bad thing, just could have used a little bit more of a build up so to speak. But I digress – if you like a chef story and watching a chef find his passion again, then this is the read for you.
Review Copy of Breaking Bonds provided by Dreamspinner Press for an honest review.
Reviewed by Mel from Alpha Book Club
The premise of this book sounds… delicious. I love a good chef story and this one had it in SPADES. The book starts out with a chef on vacation blowing up at the owner of the hotel/restaurant he was eating at because the food was horrible. I wasn’t quite sure I was into being rude for rude’s sake, but it ended up not as bad as I thought and was the beginning of a great opportunity for both men.
As mentioned, I love a good chef story – and this one had moments of time in the kitchen and the long hours and the passion for food. But the story itself felt bland. The dialogue was stilted and awkward – something felt off with the sentence structure and words, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. In addition, neither character had any real depth. There were moments of almost there depth, but nothing penetrated. It felt like I was being told about their depth instead of experiencing it. For example, Carter has a difficult family (to say the least) – but we never really got to dig in deep with the hurt there. Just that he wanted to make them proud and told them off. Lots felt missing.
Overall, if you like a chef story, this could be a good read for you – but it’s a high-level plot driven story, with a narrow plot that shows itself within the first few pages. Not that that’s always a bad thing, just could have used a little bit more of a build up so to speak. But I digress – if you like a chef story and watching a chef find his passion again, then this is the read for you.
Review Copy of Breaking Bonds provided by Dreamspinner Press for an honest review.
Reviewed by Mel from Alpha Book Club
June 4, 2017
*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.*
Breaking Bonds is Book 2 in Ari McKay's The Walker Boys series and is part of Dreamspinner Press Dreamspun Desires. Though this is book two in a series, it is possible to read it as a standalone. The characters from book one are mentioned a couple of times, but they're not included in this story.
Liam is a chef at a prestigious New York restaurant and is preening under the tutelage of his mentor when a food critic review attacks his cooking because of his background. When Liam next sees the food critic, he hits him. Liam and his mentor feel it's best if he takes a breather, and a vacation to get his head on straight. Liam randomly picks a resort in North Carolina and while sitting in the restaurant is served the worst food ever. He demands to talk to the owner and discovers Carter, who tells Liam that he needs help. Liam decides to give up his vacation time and instead help Carter.
Carter is in over his head with the resort that he's bought. He can't afford an expensive chef and hired a local boy who wants to go to culinary school but can't afford it yet. Carter has a lot riding on his dream of running a successful resort and restaurant and can't fail. He's open with Liam and accepts the help that is provided. He's attracted to Liam but isn't willing to risk further wrath from his parents for having an affair.
Both Carter and Liam are likable men and they fit together nicely. This is a sweet story between two men who have to decide what is their dream and find a way to make it happen. I loved that Carter and Liam didn't play games with each other. They were open and honest about what they wanted and wouldn't accept anything less. This is an easy read and very enjoyable!
Rating: 4 stars!
Breaking Bonds is Book 2 in Ari McKay's The Walker Boys series and is part of Dreamspinner Press Dreamspun Desires. Though this is book two in a series, it is possible to read it as a standalone. The characters from book one are mentioned a couple of times, but they're not included in this story.
Liam is a chef at a prestigious New York restaurant and is preening under the tutelage of his mentor when a food critic review attacks his cooking because of his background. When Liam next sees the food critic, he hits him. Liam and his mentor feel it's best if he takes a breather, and a vacation to get his head on straight. Liam randomly picks a resort in North Carolina and while sitting in the restaurant is served the worst food ever. He demands to talk to the owner and discovers Carter, who tells Liam that he needs help. Liam decides to give up his vacation time and instead help Carter.
Carter is in over his head with the resort that he's bought. He can't afford an expensive chef and hired a local boy who wants to go to culinary school but can't afford it yet. Carter has a lot riding on his dream of running a successful resort and restaurant and can't fail. He's open with Liam and accepts the help that is provided. He's attracted to Liam but isn't willing to risk further wrath from his parents for having an affair.
Both Carter and Liam are likable men and they fit together nicely. This is a sweet story between two men who have to decide what is their dream and find a way to make it happen. I loved that Carter and Liam didn't play games with each other. They were open and honest about what they wanted and wouldn't accept anything less. This is an easy read and very enjoyable!
Rating: 4 stars!
February 1, 2020
Liam Walker is a well know chef in New York City. A critic decides to post a poor review of Liam's cooking abilities causing Liam to punch the critic in a public forum. Liam's boss suggests he take a vacation and clear his head. He ends up in N. Carolina at the Outlook resort/restaurant. The first meal is not up to par and Liam ends up suggesting he help tutor Rocky (the cook) while he's on vacation.
Carter has always had a dream to own a resort in N. Carolina. After obtaining his MBA he opens the Outlook. It's still in need of a lot of renovation but it's his baby and he'll go down with it before giving up. When Liam offers his help he gladly accepts.
Liam has spent the last 10 years working his way up the ladder to being the head chef at a prestigious restaurant and he hasn't spent time cultivating any relationships excepts his mentor. Carter is a down to earth guy who isn't interested in a fling and tells Liam that from the beginning. Carter and Liam are very attracted to each other and the chemistry is hot. The longer Liam spends at the Outlook with Carter and Rocky makes it harder to go back to NYC. Liam is realizing that there are more important things than being a top chef in NYC. Liam and Carter have a big thing in common concerning the people close to them. Liam's mentor and Carter's parents are two sides of the same coin (no spoilers).
I really liked this slow romance. Liam and Carter both give up a little to have what they need to have a fulfilling life. I would have liked a little more on the troubles caused by the mentor and parents and more in the ending but all in all it's a slow, sweet romance. Definitely recommend this series.
ARC received for an honest review.
Carter has always had a dream to own a resort in N. Carolina. After obtaining his MBA he opens the Outlook. It's still in need of a lot of renovation but it's his baby and he'll go down with it before giving up. When Liam offers his help he gladly accepts.
Liam has spent the last 10 years working his way up the ladder to being the head chef at a prestigious restaurant and he hasn't spent time cultivating any relationships excepts his mentor. Carter is a down to earth guy who isn't interested in a fling and tells Liam that from the beginning. Carter and Liam are very attracted to each other and the chemistry is hot. The longer Liam spends at the Outlook with Carter and Rocky makes it harder to go back to NYC. Liam is realizing that there are more important things than being a top chef in NYC. Liam and Carter have a big thing in common concerning the people close to them. Liam's mentor and Carter's parents are two sides of the same coin (no spoilers).
I really liked this slow romance. Liam and Carter both give up a little to have what they need to have a fulfilling life. I would have liked a little more on the troubles caused by the mentor and parents and more in the ending but all in all it's a slow, sweet romance. Definitely recommend this series.
ARC received for an honest review.
September 23, 2017
When Chef Liam Walker is attacked by a food critic, he needs time away from the New York restaurant scene to get a grip on himself. At the Overlook Resort in North Carolina, Liam meets Carter Galloway. He wants to have the best resort ever but is falling down in the food area. Liam has no problem offering his expertise, but soon he wants to offer more. Carter would love to but he is not into a fling. He knows he can be nothing more than that as both have their own careers. Some bonds are meant to be broken and some are not.
Liam has been caught up in the highly competitive New York restaurant scene. Therefore, when one critic delivers a bad review, he feels personally attacked. Needing to get away and to center himself, he picks the Overlook Resort to help him refresh. Meeting Carter is like frosting on a cake. He wants more but Carter wants more as well. Carter wants long term or nothing. Both men have some thinking to do to decide what is best. It is interesting to watch these two learn more about themselves than they ever thought possible. Pick up Breaking Bonds and watch as two men grow in different ways.
Liam has been caught up in the highly competitive New York restaurant scene. Therefore, when one critic delivers a bad review, he feels personally attacked. Needing to get away and to center himself, he picks the Overlook Resort to help him refresh. Meeting Carter is like frosting on a cake. He wants more but Carter wants more as well. Carter wants long term or nothing. Both men have some thinking to do to decide what is best. It is interesting to watch these two learn more about themselves than they ever thought possible. Pick up Breaking Bonds and watch as two men grow in different ways.
July 2, 2017
Breaking Bonds by Ari McKay is a contemporary male/male romance. Liam Walker goes to Overlook Resort in North Carolina to lick his wounds after a critic slams his culinary skills. There he meets owner, Carter Galloway. Sparks fly between the two men while Liam lends his expertise to Carter’s restaurant.
Breaking Bonds was a cute, predictable romance. Honestly, there was hardly any drama. However, the characters were funny, the romance was believable, and really what more could you ask? Granted, the Liam’s insistence that he had to get back to New York got old kind of quickly, especially when you’re in his head and know how he feels. But… it’s expected in the formulaic romance. I will say, I was shocked by the antagonist reveal. It’s not who I thought and McKay did a great job building the suspense in that aspect.
All in all Breaking Bonds is a well-written, easy to read book, perfect for the beach.
Reviewed by Liz Cat for Crystal's Many Reviewers
Copy provided for review
Breaking Bonds was a cute, predictable romance. Honestly, there was hardly any drama. However, the characters were funny, the romance was believable, and really what more could you ask? Granted, the Liam’s insistence that he had to get back to New York got old kind of quickly, especially when you’re in his head and know how he feels. But… it’s expected in the formulaic romance. I will say, I was shocked by the antagonist reveal. It’s not who I thought and McKay did a great job building the suspense in that aspect.
All in all Breaking Bonds is a well-written, easy to read book, perfect for the beach.
Reviewed by Liz Cat for Crystal's Many Reviewers
Copy provided for review
August 11, 2020
This book was given freely by the author in return for an honest review
Sigh...
So I was happy with the slow burn, no sex story, knowing the story would eventually bring Liam and Carter back together. The side characters added to the tale's appeal, and I loved how distinct the two main characters were.
The quick downfall for me came towards the end and started with one word: arousal. This is a huge, enormous, ugh-inspiring pet peeve of mine and instantly kills a story for me. This word is not a noun and should not be used as a noun. Ever. What then followed was a mediocre sex scene that could have been halved because the banter didn't add anything to intimate interaction.
That sex scene aside, I enjoyed the rest of the story of two men reaching for their dreams and finding love along the way.
Four stars downgraded to a verbal three and a half for the failed sex scene.
Sigh...
So I was happy with the slow burn, no sex story, knowing the story would eventually bring Liam and Carter back together. The side characters added to the tale's appeal, and I loved how distinct the two main characters were.
The quick downfall for me came towards the end and started with one word: arousal. This is a huge, enormous, ugh-inspiring pet peeve of mine and instantly kills a story for me. This word is not a noun and should not be used as a noun. Ever. What then followed was a mediocre sex scene that could have been halved because the banter didn't add anything to intimate interaction.
That sex scene aside, I enjoyed the rest of the story of two men reaching for their dreams and finding love along the way.
Four stars downgraded to a verbal three and a half for the failed sex scene.
November 7, 2018
Breaking Bonds, by Ari McKay, gets off to a fun start as Liam and Carter meet over some badly cooked food.
What follows is a sweet romance between resort owner, Carter, and experienced chef, Liam, who stays on to help train Carter's inexperienced and overwhelmed chef.
Their story includes some controlling parents, some homophobic parents, some dreams being achieved, and the realization that dreams can change over time.
Sometimes the thing you've spent your life dreaming of is not what you actually end up wanting. Sometimes dreams change. Sometimes someone enters your life and ends up changing everything you've ever wanted. Sometimes you need to figure out what you really want. And sometimes you need to be willing to give up your dream.
I enjoyed Breaking Bonds a lot. It has a good pace, good characters, and is written well. Ari McKay delivers a nice romance as usual.
April 29, 2019
After a particularly scathing review of his restaurant, chef Liam Walker decides to get away for a while and ends up at the Overlook Resort. A series of complaints during his first meal puts him face to face with Carter Galloway, who seems like a sweet man (and is definitely easy on the eyes). Somehow, against his better judgment, Liam agrees to spend his vacation overseeing the kitchen at the resort's restaurant and helping to get things onto the right track for Carter. And as the two spend more time together, both can't help wondering if there might be something to pursue when their business arrangement ends. And these guys, who are written wonderfully, are just the type to let their egos and assumptions get in their own way despite their best efforts...
September 9, 2017
This was a very good book. I liked the characters and the storyline. A New York Chef needing a break goes to a resort in the South. Meets the proprieter of the resort and the chef of the restaurant. Helps them improve the restaurant in order to keep the resort running and pull in new patrons.
Then enters the chef's New York mentor and the "fight" is on for the chef's priorities. Go back to New York or stay and help run the resort with the man he's fallen in love with?
Couldn't put the book down . . . had to finish it!
Then enters the chef's New York mentor and the "fight" is on for the chef's priorities. Go back to New York or stay and help run the resort with the man he's fallen in love with?
Couldn't put the book down . . . had to finish it!
August 4, 2017
3.5
I agree with some of the reviews I read - I also like food themes in books so I was excited to read this book. (I wanted more descriptions actually, lol.)
I liked both Liam and Carter! I liked how the book centered around dreams. It was interesting how the author correlated Carter's dad and Liam's mentor.
I agree with some of the reviews I read - I also like food themes in books so I was excited to read this book. (I wanted more descriptions actually, lol.)
I liked both Liam and Carter! I liked how the book centered around dreams. It was interesting how the author correlated Carter's dad and Liam's mentor.
June 1, 2017
3.5 Stars. I enjoyed the book and have a soft spot for food related stories. Not quite as good as the first book in the series Striking Sparks but certainly worth reading.
June 10, 2017
Liam's crisis makes him take a time out that gives him the chance to rethink his dream. Carter has begun to live his dream but he still has his own issues to deal with. But together they bring out the best in the other and seems to make finding a way of forging dreams together a priority.
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