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Bluewater Bay #7
Wedding Favors
8 hrs 14 mins
Lucas Wilder’s best friend is a traitor. First, Audrey moved back to their hick-infested hometown, Bluewater Bay, and now she’s marrying a local. His own brother, in fact. And as her man of honor, Lucas gets coerced into returning for an extended stay. Although, between his unfaithful ex-boyfriend and his artist’s block, going home isn’t the worst thing that could happen. Even if the best man is Gabriel Savage, Lucas’s first crush, first hookup, and first heartbreak.
The only reason Gabe hasn’t been waiting for Lucas to return to Bluewater Bay is because he never thought it’d happen. Not that it matters now that Lucas is back—Gabe’s still a logger who’s never been anywhere (Canada doesn’t count), and Lucas is now a famous sculptor who’s been everywhere twice. Plus, there’s that shared past.
When Audrey asks Lucas to make her wedding favors, the only place to set up a kiln is at Gabe’s tree farm. Soon, they pick up where they left off twelve years before, then blow past it, discovering why neither of them forgot the other. Now they have to choose how much of their history they’ll repeat, and what future they’ll make together.
Lucas Wilder’s best friend is a traitor. First, Audrey moved back to their hick-infested hometown, Bluewater Bay, and now she’s marrying a local. His own brother, in fact. And as her man of honor, Lucas gets coerced into returning for an extended stay. Although, between his unfaithful ex-boyfriend and his artist’s block, going home isn’t the worst thing that could happen. Even if the best man is Gabriel Savage, Lucas’s first crush, first hookup, and first heartbreak.
The only reason Gabe hasn’t been waiting for Lucas to return to Bluewater Bay is because he never thought it’d happen. Not that it matters now that Lucas is back—Gabe’s still a logger who’s never been anywhere (Canada doesn’t count), and Lucas is now a famous sculptor who’s been everywhere twice. Plus, there’s that shared past.
When Audrey asks Lucas to make her wedding favors, the only place to set up a kiln is at Gabe’s tree farm. Soon, they pick up where they left off twelve years before, then blow past it, discovering why neither of them forgot the other. Now they have to choose how much of their history they’ll repeat, and what future they’ll make together.
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 11, 2015
26 people are currently reading
488 people want to read
About the author
Anne Tenino
22 books669 followersCatalyzed by her discovery of LGBTQ romance, Anne Tenino left the lucrative fields of art history, non-profit fundraising, and domestic engineering (in that order) to follow her dream of become a starving romance author. For good or ill, her snarky, silly, quasi-British sense of humor came along for the ride.
Anne applies her particular blend of romance, comedy, and gay protagonists to contemporary, scifi, and paranormal tales. Her works have won many awards; her novel, Frat Boy and Toppy, is frequently referred to as a gay romance classic; she’s been featured in RT Book Reviews magazine; she holds the position of VP of Programming at her local RWA chapter; and she’s achieved bestseller status on Amazon’s gay romance list.
Born and raised in Oregon, Anne now lives in Portland with her family, who have all taken a sacred oath never to read her books. When not crocheting genitalia, growing tomatoes, driving teenagers around, or cooking something obscure, she can be found at her computer, procrastinating. Possibly while also lying on the couch, eating bon-bons.
Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her site. http://annetenino.com
Links:
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
Riptide:
http://www.riptidepublishing.com/auth...
Chicks & Dicks:
http://chicksndicks.blogspot.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/AnneTenino
Goodreads profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/annetenino
Anne applies her particular blend of romance, comedy, and gay protagonists to contemporary, scifi, and paranormal tales. Her works have won many awards; her novel, Frat Boy and Toppy, is frequently referred to as a gay romance classic; she’s been featured in RT Book Reviews magazine; she holds the position of VP of Programming at her local RWA chapter; and she’s achieved bestseller status on Amazon’s gay romance list.
Born and raised in Oregon, Anne now lives in Portland with her family, who have all taken a sacred oath never to read her books. When not crocheting genitalia, growing tomatoes, driving teenagers around, or cooking something obscure, she can be found at her computer, procrastinating. Possibly while also lying on the couch, eating bon-bons.
Check out what Anne’s up to now by visiting her site. http://annetenino.com
Links:
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
Riptide:
http://www.riptidepublishing.com/auth...
Chicks & Dicks:
http://chicksndicks.blogspot.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/#!/AnneTenino
Goodreads profile:
http://www.goodreads.com/annetenino
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
April 14, 2015
~4.5~
I have been waiting for this book since I read the prequel in:
In my review of that anthology, I stated that I LOVED this story until the end, when I realized that it was. The. End. And then I went into full-on angst mode. Because this is surely only the beginning of a story. I need MORE!
Well, I'm happy to report that I got my MORE, and what a MORE it was.
In Helping Hand, the short story prequel, Gabe and Lucas are still boys. Lucas is nearly out of high school and planning a future away from the small Washington town where he was raised ... and away from Gabe.
Gabe and Lucas' relationship begins with a misunderstanding twelve years before they reconnect in Wedding Favors.
After breaking up with his cheating boyfriend, Lucas, now 30, returns home to be the Man of Honor at his best friend Audrey's wedding. Audrey is marrying Lucas' older brother, Zach, who also happens to be Gabe's best friend, and Gabe is Zach's Best Man.
The plot thickens!
The slow burn, longing, and sexual tension between Gabe and Lucas are palpable.
Lucas is an artist: raw, tactile, sensual. Gabe is a beefy, ginger lumberjack who has put down roots and wants someone with whom he can share a life.
I liked Lucas, but I adored Gabe. He is patient, loyal, and understanding, exactly the man flighty, insecure Lucas needs to bring him down to earth.
There are plenty of sexy times here. Lucas is a kinky boy, and Gabe likes him that way.
I really liked Audrey and Zach, and didn't think the side story of their wedding detracted from the story. The scenes with Lucas' "reformed" father were funny, and Gabe's mom was pretty cool too.
The focus here is on the men's relationship, on forgiveness, on coming home. Neither Lucas nor Gabe wants to admit that they want their wedding-planning fling to become something permanent.
Lucas stammers and hedges, and Gabe lashes out. I despaired of them ever talking it all out, but I breathed a huge sigh of relief in the last chapter.
Because the ending? Oh, yeah. It's all passion and JOY.
This is my favorite book in the Bluewater Bay series thus far. I loved the humour, the sexy sweentess, and the engaging writing.
But I still want MORE. What can I say? I'm demanding like that.
Perhaps these two can have a wedding of their own?
P.S. While Helping Hand is a lovely prequel, you do not have to read it to enjoy Wedding Favors. This book is part of the Bluewater Bay universe but, like the other books in this series, can be read as a standalone.
I have been waiting for this book since I read the prequel in:
In my review of that anthology, I stated that I LOVED this story until the end, when I realized that it was. The. End. And then I went into full-on angst mode. Because this is surely only the beginning of a story. I need MORE!
Well, I'm happy to report that I got my MORE, and what a MORE it was.
In Helping Hand, the short story prequel, Gabe and Lucas are still boys. Lucas is nearly out of high school and planning a future away from the small Washington town where he was raised ... and away from Gabe.
Gabe and Lucas' relationship begins with a misunderstanding twelve years before they reconnect in Wedding Favors.
After breaking up with his cheating boyfriend, Lucas, now 30, returns home to be the Man of Honor at his best friend Audrey's wedding. Audrey is marrying Lucas' older brother, Zach, who also happens to be Gabe's best friend, and Gabe is Zach's Best Man.
The plot thickens!
The slow burn, longing, and sexual tension between Gabe and Lucas are palpable.
Lucas is an artist: raw, tactile, sensual. Gabe is a beefy, ginger lumberjack who has put down roots and wants someone with whom he can share a life.
I liked Lucas, but I adored Gabe. He is patient, loyal, and understanding, exactly the man flighty, insecure Lucas needs to bring him down to earth.
There are plenty of sexy times here. Lucas is a kinky boy, and Gabe likes him that way.
I really liked Audrey and Zach, and didn't think the side story of their wedding detracted from the story. The scenes with Lucas' "reformed" father were funny, and Gabe's mom was pretty cool too.
The focus here is on the men's relationship, on forgiveness, on coming home. Neither Lucas nor Gabe wants to admit that they want their wedding-planning fling to become something permanent.
Lucas stammers and hedges, and Gabe lashes out. I despaired of them ever talking it all out, but I breathed a huge sigh of relief in the last chapter.
Because the ending? Oh, yeah. It's all passion and JOY.
This is my favorite book in the Bluewater Bay series thus far. I loved the humour, the sexy sweentess, and the engaging writing.
But I still want MORE. What can I say? I'm demanding like that.
Perhaps these two can have a wedding of their own?
P.S. While Helping Hand is a lovely prequel, you do not have to read it to enjoy Wedding Favors. This book is part of the Bluewater Bay universe but, like the other books in this series, can be read as a standalone.
January 12, 2019
Audio - 4.5 stars
Story - 4.25 stars
Story - 4.25 stars
April 12, 2015
*3.5 stars*
A sweet read with some HOT moments, but with lots of communication issues. Review to come.
A sweet read with some HOT moments, but with lots of communication issues. Review to come.
April 19, 2017
The book was good...the audio was even better? Who knew?
'Wedding Favors' is the seventh book in 'The Bluewater Bay' series and while I have fallen a bit behind with this series. I still keep buying the books because one day I will get back to them and get caught up and listening to this audio book simply confirmed that I need to do this.
As I frequently do with audio books that I've previously read here's the link to my original review...
Bluewater Bay #7 Wedding Favors - Original Review
You might notice that I originally gave this one 4 stars, I really enjoyed it. It's a cute, fun second chance story by Anne Tenino but I have to admit add in narration by Nick J. Russo and that was all that was needed to push this up to a five star experience for me. Seriously I was laughing out loud and talking to the characters...good thing I was home alone or someone might have ordered me a new jacket in white with really long sleeves. This one went from enjoyable to a whole lot of hella' good fun for me and the sexy times...oh, lordie! Mr. Russo nailed those...there might have been a bit of replay going on...honestly Lucas and Gabe...damn, just damn! Sooooo HOT!
Best of all though was the scene where Lucas and Audrey are tasting wine...seriously laugh out loud stuff there folks and if you've read the book you know what I'm talking about.
Like any good piece of art, you need to start with good material but even then if you don't know what you're doing things can go wrong...horribly, horribly wrong. I'm very happy to say Nick Russo knows what he's doing. Even if you don't want to start a new series the wonderful thing about the 'Bluewater Bay' series is each book truly stands on it's own you can read one and thoroughly enjoy it without benefit of having read the rest of them and if you're looking to check out a well done audio book and possibly a new to you narrator (if you've never heard Mr. Russo before) I highly recommend 'Wedding Favors'.
********************
An audiobook of 'Wedding Favors' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
'Wedding Favors' is the seventh book in 'The Bluewater Bay' series and while I have fallen a bit behind with this series. I still keep buying the books because one day I will get back to them and get caught up and listening to this audio book simply confirmed that I need to do this.
As I frequently do with audio books that I've previously read here's the link to my original review...
Bluewater Bay #7 Wedding Favors - Original Review
You might notice that I originally gave this one 4 stars, I really enjoyed it. It's a cute, fun second chance story by Anne Tenino but I have to admit add in narration by Nick J. Russo and that was all that was needed to push this up to a five star experience for me. Seriously I was laughing out loud and talking to the characters...good thing I was home alone or someone might have ordered me a new jacket in white with really long sleeves. This one went from enjoyable to a whole lot of hella' good fun for me and the sexy times...oh, lordie! Mr. Russo nailed those...there might have been a bit of replay going on...honestly Lucas and Gabe...damn, just damn! Sooooo HOT!
Best of all though was the scene where Lucas and Audrey are tasting wine...seriously laugh out loud stuff there folks and if you've read the book you know what I'm talking about.
Like any good piece of art, you need to start with good material but even then if you don't know what you're doing things can go wrong...horribly, horribly wrong. I'm very happy to say Nick Russo knows what he's doing. Even if you don't want to start a new series the wonderful thing about the 'Bluewater Bay' series is each book truly stands on it's own you can read one and thoroughly enjoy it without benefit of having read the rest of them and if you're looking to check out a well done audio book and possibly a new to you narrator (if you've never heard Mr. Russo before) I highly recommend 'Wedding Favors'.
********************
An audiobook of 'Wedding Favors' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2016
So in my review of 'Lights, Camera, Cupid' book #6 and the 'Bluewater Bay' Valentine's Anthology the last story was called 'Helping Hand' and this is the book that it connects too. I thoroughly loved this book.
Lucas and Gabe have a history, as explained in 'Helping Hand' and now Lucas is drawn back to Bluewater Bay at the request of his best friend, Audrey, who happens to be planning on marrying Lucas's brother who also happens to be Gabe's best friend. Like or not these two men are going to have to deal with one another. Gabe's ok with this because he wants to finish scratching that itch and get Lucas out of his system so he can move on...oh that life should be so simple?
At times it seems like everything is conspiring to bring these two men together including Lucas' own attraction to the crush he never really got over.
This one was sweet, sexy and at times funny as these two men struggled to keep their equilibrium and guard their hearts from the inevitable collision course they're on.
So far this series has been absolutely delightful and I'm looking forward to August when we get book #9 When to Hold Them by G.B. Gordon...new characters from a new to me author = the opportunity for another great story to read.
Lucas and Gabe have a history, as explained in 'Helping Hand' and now Lucas is drawn back to Bluewater Bay at the request of his best friend, Audrey, who happens to be planning on marrying Lucas's brother who also happens to be Gabe's best friend. Like or not these two men are going to have to deal with one another. Gabe's ok with this because he wants to finish scratching that itch and get Lucas out of his system so he can move on...oh that life should be so simple?
At times it seems like everything is conspiring to bring these two men together including Lucas' own attraction to the crush he never really got over.
This one was sweet, sexy and at times funny as these two men struggled to keep their equilibrium and guard their hearts from the inevitable collision course they're on.
So far this series has been absolutely delightful and I'm looking forward to August when we get book #9 When to Hold Them by G.B. Gordon...new characters from a new to me author = the opportunity for another great story to read.
April 18, 2015
The prequel of this book which you can find in Lights, Camera, Cupid was pretty much the only story of the anthology that I liked. I'm happy to say that this sequel did not disappoint me.
Twelve years ago, after coming out to his parents and after a hot and heavy make out session with Gabe his brother's best friend, (remember Gabe? The smoking hot ginger lumberjack?), Lucas left Bluewater bay to go to college. Lucas and Gabe ended things on a really bad note and left things unsaid. Now, Lucas has to come back for his brother's and his best friend's weddding. And Gabe is the best man of course.
I will admit that the first half of the book dragged on FOREVER and it had me a little scared. The tension was there but Lucas was acting like a bitch and nothing was really happening . Fortunately the second half was exactly what I hoped for and I have many favourite moments of it..
-Lucas and Audrey getting drunk. It's not pretty. It is hilarious though.
“D’you remember that girl a year behind us, Melody Jenkins?”
Squinting didn’t jog his memory. “No.”
“She sewed too, and she was always copying my clothes.”
“Oh.” He snapped his fingers, although the sound wasn’t as crisp as he’d expected. “I remember her. She had really bad hair.”
“She’s dead,” Audrey announced.
He winced. “Her hair wasn’t that bad.”
-The sex scenes not only because they were smoking hot but because they had real emotion weather the two of them wanted to admit it or not. Lucas could finally, FINALLY be himself and not apologize for his libido or his kinks.
-Many aww... moments like the dried carnation moment, or the revelation of the sculpture Lucas was making.
Tenino's writing always speaks to me and I read her books when I want something light but not too fluffy. A little angsty but funny and cute all wrapped up in a pretty bow. Like this :
Instead, he kissed Lucas’s forehead, and tried to mentally prepare himself for the five steps to mangling a heart: pound flat, dip in sorrow, coat in pain, cook in a cast-iron skillet, turning regularly until done to death. Chicken-fried heartbreak.
Overall it was a good story, the classic Tenino way and I trully enjoyed it.
Merged review:
The prequel of this book was pretty much the only story of the anthology that I liked. I'm happy to say that this sequel did not disappoint me.
Twelve years ago, after coming out to his parents and after a hot and heavy make out session with Gabe his brother's best friend, (remember Gabe? The smoking hot ginger lumberjack?), Lucas left Bluewater bay to go to college. Lucas and Gabe ended things on a really bad note and left things unsaid. Now, Lucas has to come back for his brother's and his best friend's weddding. And Gabe is the best man of course.
I will admit that the first half of the book dragged on FOREVER and it had me a little scared. The tension was there but Lucas was acting like a bitch and nothing was really happening . Fortunately the second half wa exactly what I hoped for and I have many favourite moments of it..
-Lucas and Audrey get drunk. It's not pretty. It is hilarious though.
“D’you remember that girl a year behind us, Melody Jenkins?” Squinting didn’t jog his memory. “No.” “She sewed too, and she was always copying my clothes.” “Oh.” He snapped his fingers, although the sound wasn’t as crisp as he’d expected. “I remember her. She had really bad hair.” “She’s dead,” Audrey announced. He winced. “Her hair wasn’t that bad.”
-The sex scenes not only because they were smoking hot but because they had real emotion weather the two of them wanted to admit it or not. Lucas could finally, FINALLY be himself and not apologize for his libido or his kinks.
-Many aww... moments like the dried carnation moment, or the revelation of the sculpture Lucas was making.
Tenino's writing always speaks to me and I read her books when I want something light but not too fluffy. A little angsty but funny and cute all wrapped up in a pretty bow. Like this :
Instead, he kissed Lucas’s forehead, and tried to mentally prepare himself for the five steps to mangling a heart: pound flat, dip in sorrow, coat in pain, cook in a cast-iron skillet, turning regularly until done to death. Chicken-fried heartbreak.
Overall it was a good story, classic Tenino style and I trully enjoyed it.
April 7, 2017
My thoughts on this book? Well, I give it a
I loved it! I loved me some Gabe and I loved me some Lucas and I loved the two of them together. And boyyy were they hot together! I especially loved that they reminded me a bit of Jurgen and Nik in Whitetail Rock (and if you've read that, you know exactly what I'm talking about), in the best way possible. They were hot, they were tender, they were there for each other with minimal angst and yessss. Yes to everything!
Thank you, Anne Tenino! I totally needed this book in my life.
I loved it! I loved me some Gabe and I loved me some Lucas and I loved the two of them together. And boyyy were they hot together! I especially loved that they reminded me a bit of Jurgen and Nik in Whitetail Rock (and if you've read that, you know exactly what I'm talking about), in the best way possible. They were hot, they were tender, they were there for each other with minimal angst and yessss. Yes to everything!
Thank you, Anne Tenino! I totally needed this book in my life.
June 11, 2015
This was not too bad.
It was cute and it had some steamy moments. My only thing is that at times the book felt too long but it was cute. 3.5 Stars.
**ARC kindly provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review**
It was cute and it had some steamy moments. My only thing is that at times the book felt too long but it was cute. 3.5 Stars.
**ARC kindly provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review**
November 7, 2016
I liked the characters and thoroughly enjoyed the bedroom scenes, but there was something about Tenino's writing style that was too jarring (especially in the first 50-60% of the book) to let me settle into the story and be swept away by this quirky second chance romance.
April 25, 2015
A sweet enough romance but lacking in tension and a little too long and meandering for my liking. There was something about Lucas that annoyed me and I found it hard to connect with him although I liked Gabe. And it also had a pet peeve of mine; smug couples trying to meddle and matchmake...urgh.
Needles to say, this is my least favourite of the Bluewater Bay series.
Needles to say, this is my least favourite of the Bluewater Bay series.
May 17, 2015
****Thanks to
Riptide
and
Netgalley
for the review copy of this book. ****
Wedding Favors is the first novel by Anne Tenino that I've read, and I really enjoyed it! I did read the short story Helping Hand from Lights, Camera, Cupid that led into this book, first, though, in case it would give me some insight into the characters - and I really think it did. I don't think you have to read that short story first, but I do think you will get a better picture of Lucas, especially, if you do.
Lucas Wilder grew up in Bluewater Bay and he could not wait to get out. Once he graduated high school, he left to go to art school and he has only come back to visit occasionally, pretty much when he couldn't get out of it. Before he left the first time, though, he and Gabe Savage had a sexual encounter that ended badly - because Gabe pushed Lucas away before his heart could get broken. They were young and Gabe knew that Lucas was meant for bigger things than Bluewater Bay, so he pushed Lucas away.
Twelve years later, Lucas has to go back to Bluewater Bay because his best friend is marrying his brother. And Gabe is the best man. Let the fun begin! Lucas and Gabe have unfinished business, and maybe, just maybe Gabe can have a bit of his cake and eat it, too.
And so Gabe and Lucas start seeing each other. And Gabe turns out to be a really sentimental guy, but he doesn't want to talk much about his feelings. He avoids talking to Lucas about the possibility of staying. And Lucas is so completely focused on leaving Bluewater Bay after the wedding, he doesn't see what is right in front of him. In fact, his art knows his heart before he does himself. He really is a bit too self absorbed, I think. Lucas, you should work on that, k? Trust me on this one.
Together, Lucas and Gabe are perfect and hot. Gabe is dominant in all the right ways and Lucas eats that up with a spoon. In fact, my only complaint about them is that they completely avoided talking about a possible future because they each were too busy second guessing the other and neither of them would come out and say what they were feeling, until they just about repeated history.
I loved loved loved the ending. It was perfect and sweet, and very satisfying.
Wedding Favors is the first novel by Anne Tenino that I've read, and I really enjoyed it! I did read the short story Helping Hand from Lights, Camera, Cupid that led into this book, first, though, in case it would give me some insight into the characters - and I really think it did. I don't think you have to read that short story first, but I do think you will get a better picture of Lucas, especially, if you do.
Lucas Wilder grew up in Bluewater Bay and he could not wait to get out. Once he graduated high school, he left to go to art school and he has only come back to visit occasionally, pretty much when he couldn't get out of it. Before he left the first time, though, he and Gabe Savage had a sexual encounter that ended badly - because Gabe pushed Lucas away before his heart could get broken. They were young and Gabe knew that Lucas was meant for bigger things than Bluewater Bay, so he pushed Lucas away.
Twelve years later, Lucas has to go back to Bluewater Bay because his best friend is marrying his brother. And Gabe is the best man. Let the fun begin! Lucas and Gabe have unfinished business, and maybe, just maybe Gabe can have a bit of his cake and eat it, too.
And so Gabe and Lucas start seeing each other. And Gabe turns out to be a really sentimental guy, but he doesn't want to talk much about his feelings. He avoids talking to Lucas about the possibility of staying. And Lucas is so completely focused on leaving Bluewater Bay after the wedding, he doesn't see what is right in front of him. In fact, his art knows his heart before he does himself. He really is a bit too self absorbed, I think. Lucas, you should work on that, k? Trust me on this one.
Together, Lucas and Gabe are perfect and hot. Gabe is dominant in all the right ways and Lucas eats that up with a spoon. In fact, my only complaint about them is that they completely avoided talking about a possible future because they each were too busy second guessing the other and neither of them would come out and say what they were feeling, until they just about repeated history.
I loved loved loved the ending. It was perfect and sweet, and very satisfying.
October 12, 2015
3.5 stars
Okay, that's it. I'm moving to Bluewater Bay to find my very own lumberjack.
What I liked most about 'Wedding Favors' was how Lucas and Gabe understood, and accepted, each other's quirks. Gabe understood that Lucas' tendency to get lost in his own world wasn't self-absorbed, it was just how Lucas dealt with all of his creative thoughts. And Lucas doesn't see anything wrong with Gabe's dedication to the family farm, even if it's a financial struggle. The two fit together, and I didn't need to stretch my mind to understand why they'd pined for each other even while they were apart for over a decade.
And the sex. T'was hot. I didn't read any reviews before I began reading, so Lucas' kinky side was a very good surprise. These two have got a slight domination thing going on, and I was totally on board with that.
I also liked the secondary characters, mainly Audrey and Zach. The side-story of their wedding added to the story, and actually helped move Lucas and Gabe's relationship along. And Lucas' father was a hoot.
My only complaint, and what dropped this book down a half star, was that the two took so long to finally say what was on their mind. Reading the two skirt around their issues for over 200 pages eventually got annoying. It's not until the last 20% that Lucas and Gabe finally open up. Had they just talked about a few of their most minor issues earlier on, I'm sure I would be rounding up to 4 stars.
The Bluewater Bay series has been a mixed bag for me. Though I've really come to like the small town setting, my ratings for each instalment have been all over the place. Which is why I held off on reading 'Wedding Favors' for so long. But in the end, it was a fun read.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
Okay, that's it. I'm moving to Bluewater Bay to find my very own lumberjack.
What I liked most about 'Wedding Favors' was how Lucas and Gabe understood, and accepted, each other's quirks. Gabe understood that Lucas' tendency to get lost in his own world wasn't self-absorbed, it was just how Lucas dealt with all of his creative thoughts. And Lucas doesn't see anything wrong with Gabe's dedication to the family farm, even if it's a financial struggle. The two fit together, and I didn't need to stretch my mind to understand why they'd pined for each other even while they were apart for over a decade.
And the sex. T'was hot. I didn't read any reviews before I began reading, so Lucas' kinky side was a very good surprise. These two have got a slight domination thing going on, and I was totally on board with that.
I also liked the secondary characters, mainly Audrey and Zach. The side-story of their wedding added to the story, and actually helped move Lucas and Gabe's relationship along. And Lucas' father was a hoot.
My only complaint, and what dropped this book down a half star, was that the two took so long to finally say what was on their mind. Reading the two skirt around their issues for over 200 pages eventually got annoying. It's not until the last 20% that Lucas and Gabe finally open up. Had they just talked about a few of their most minor issues earlier on, I'm sure I would be rounding up to 4 stars.
The Bluewater Bay series has been a mixed bag for me. Though I've really come to like the small town setting, my ratings for each instalment have been all over the place. Which is why I held off on reading 'Wedding Favors' for so long. But in the end, it was a fun read.
Review copy provided through NetGalley.
April 15, 2015
Fingers crossed this isn't going to be cheese-fest.
4/14/15
4.5 Stars!!!
So this wasn't a cheese fest at all! I loved this book, IMHO this is Tenino's best work to date. I'm a sucker for older friends/lovers/old flames reconnecting so needless to say this story did it for me. And the sex was so fucking hot, Lucas was such a kinky, intense bottom! Who else would he be perfect for other than the toppy, manly Gabe? I loved that I could feel the chemistry between them from the start, and by the time they actually had sex, the expectation was slowly killing me.
The only reason this wasn't a 5 stars is the lack of communication between the guys. It's one of those things that piss me the fuck off, even though I understand that most of the perceived angst comes as a result of that lack of communication. Even so, I prefer my angst from other sources.
That being said, this is one of my favorite books in this series, and can be read as a standalone with no problems what's so ever. Recommended!
4/14/15
4.5 Stars!!!
So this wasn't a cheese fest at all! I loved this book, IMHO this is Tenino's best work to date. I'm a sucker for older friends/lovers/old flames reconnecting so needless to say this story did it for me. And the sex was so fucking hot, Lucas was such a kinky, intense bottom! Who else would he be perfect for other than the toppy, manly Gabe? I loved that I could feel the chemistry between them from the start, and by the time they actually had sex, the expectation was slowly killing me.
The only reason this wasn't a 5 stars is the lack of communication between the guys. It's one of those things that piss me the fuck off, even though I understand that most of the perceived angst comes as a result of that lack of communication. Even so, I prefer my angst from other sources.
That being said, this is one of my favorite books in this series, and can be read as a standalone with no problems what's so ever. Recommended!
March 29, 2016
Lucas is an artist who left his little hometown to pursue his art. And to get away from the guy he had a crush on, who played him, ignored him, and broke his first-time heart. Years later now, his best friend Audrey has moved back there, she's marrying his brother, and she's coerced him into coming back to be her Man of Honor at the wedding. Lucas is at loose ends, having just broken up with his own boyfriend. He's willing to try to be there for her in his old hometown, for a little while. But a lot has changed over the years. And it's only fate that the guy he's tried to forget all these years turns out to own the best place for him to pursue his pottery...
The main characters here were fun, and a nice contrast to each other. The plot depends heavily on the misunderstanding trope, but the author made it work with the nature of her two guys so it didn't grate the way it sometimes does. Throw in some gorgeous horses, and good secondary characters, and you have a warm (and hot) addition to the series.
The main characters here were fun, and a nice contrast to each other. The plot depends heavily on the misunderstanding trope, but the author made it work with the nature of her two guys so it didn't grate the way it sometimes does. Throw in some gorgeous horses, and good secondary characters, and you have a warm (and hot) addition to the series.
June 12, 2017
Wedding Favors is the seventh book in the Bluewater Bay series. All of the books in this series can be read as standalones, which is good because there are 18 books in the series so far! I have only read 3 books in this series (and they weren't in order), and I didn't feel as if I was missing anything at any time. Out of the 3 books I've read so far, this one was my favorite. It's a second chance romance, which happens to be one of my favorite tropes.
Lucas is just getting out of a long time relationship with his cheating ex, when his best friend calls and informs him that not only is she getting married but she's getting married to his brother. She asks Lucas to be her "Man of Honor" and asks him to come back to their home town to help her plan the wedding. Lucas hates the small town that he came from and always felt like he was an outcast. His best friend also drops the bombshell that Gabe is going to be his brother's best man. Gabe and Lucas have a history. Right before Lucas left town all those years ago things happened between them and then he felt like Gabe blew him off. Lucas is not thrilled that he's going to have to see Gabe again. Gabe is okay with all of this because he still has feelings for Lucas and feels like they have unfinished business. He thinks that with Lucas being in town maybe he can "finish scratching that itch" and get Lucas out of his system for good.
Niether one of the male MCs ever felt like they had truly gotten over each other, so the chemistry and the feeling of unfinished business between them was sizzling. This one was a bit of a slow burn because of the issues between them, so there is a lot of build up. The sex scenes were smoking hot but because they had real emotion whether they wanted to admit it or not. Lucas never felt like he could completely be himself in bed with his kinks while he was with his ex, but with Gabe was able to open up. There were some amazingly sweet moments between the two of them that I loved too but I don't want to say them, and give away the "aww" moments. lol!
The only reason this wasn't a 5 stars is the lack of communication between the guys. That's one of those things that drive me a little crazy. I understand that the story needed some of it to create a little bit of angst, but come on people, is it really too hard to open your mouth and talk! Grr! Another things I wish was talked a little bit more about was Lucas' relationships with his family. Why aren't him and his brother close? They never really said. I also would have liked Lucas and his father to have had a long talk. We learn that Lucas' dad originally didn't take the news of hearing Lucas was gay well at all. And then the next time the see each other his dad is extremely friendly but there's never any talk about it, and I think it would have strengthened the story and their relationship if there was. That's just my opinion, of course!
I've never read anything else by this author, but I definitely want to in the future. Like I said, this was probably my favorite book from the Bluewater Bay series so far. I would also like to pick up a couple more from this series because I like the environment that the story takes place. There are a lot of great opportunities for some good stories.
* I received a free copy of this title via Riptide Publishing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
Lucas is just getting out of a long time relationship with his cheating ex, when his best friend calls and informs him that not only is she getting married but she's getting married to his brother. She asks Lucas to be her "Man of Honor" and asks him to come back to their home town to help her plan the wedding. Lucas hates the small town that he came from and always felt like he was an outcast. His best friend also drops the bombshell that Gabe is going to be his brother's best man. Gabe and Lucas have a history. Right before Lucas left town all those years ago things happened between them and then he felt like Gabe blew him off. Lucas is not thrilled that he's going to have to see Gabe again. Gabe is okay with all of this because he still has feelings for Lucas and feels like they have unfinished business. He thinks that with Lucas being in town maybe he can "finish scratching that itch" and get Lucas out of his system for good.
Niether one of the male MCs ever felt like they had truly gotten over each other, so the chemistry and the feeling of unfinished business between them was sizzling. This one was a bit of a slow burn because of the issues between them, so there is a lot of build up. The sex scenes were smoking hot but because they had real emotion whether they wanted to admit it or not. Lucas never felt like he could completely be himself in bed with his kinks while he was with his ex, but with Gabe was able to open up. There were some amazingly sweet moments between the two of them that I loved too but I don't want to say them, and give away the "aww" moments. lol!
The only reason this wasn't a 5 stars is the lack of communication between the guys. That's one of those things that drive me a little crazy. I understand that the story needed some of it to create a little bit of angst, but come on people, is it really too hard to open your mouth and talk! Grr! Another things I wish was talked a little bit more about was Lucas' relationships with his family. Why aren't him and his brother close? They never really said. I also would have liked Lucas and his father to have had a long talk. We learn that Lucas' dad originally didn't take the news of hearing Lucas was gay well at all. And then the next time the see each other his dad is extremely friendly but there's never any talk about it, and I think it would have strengthened the story and their relationship if there was. That's just my opinion, of course!
I've never read anything else by this author, but I definitely want to in the future. Like I said, this was probably my favorite book from the Bluewater Bay series so far. I would also like to pick up a couple more from this series because I like the environment that the story takes place. There are a lot of great opportunities for some good stories.
* I received a free copy of this title via Riptide Publishing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
April 25, 2015
This one was lovely, definitely one of the better books of the series.
I loved the joyful writing, it's liight but not too fluffy... the sweetness (yes, I really did!), the hotness, and the feeeelz. :)
Btw... if you haven't read the previous books of the series you can read Wedding Favors as a stand alone. You won't miss anything. :)
November 20, 2021
3.5 stars.
Loved the beginning and the middle but was a little bored towards the end.
Loved the beginning and the middle but was a little bored towards the end.
June 9, 2015
Happy sigh.
This book was PERFECT.
I mean, it wasn't perfect , I could definitely point out a few minor issues if I wanted to. But I don't want to!
Everything about this story pushed all the right buttons for me. Damn, I want a Gabe of my own.
These characters felt real, and their love felt real and I really loved going on that ride with them. I really got nothing done today.
Oh, and keep a fan nearby. HOT!!
This book was PERFECT.
I mean, it wasn't perfect , I could definitely point out a few minor issues if I wanted to. But I don't want to!
Everything about this story pushed all the right buttons for me. Damn, I want a Gabe of my own.
These characters felt real, and their love felt real and I really loved going on that ride with them. I really got nothing done today.
Oh, and keep a fan nearby. HOT!!
April 15, 2015
Better book in the series. Not as silly as I feared it might be. I will say I couldn't STAND Zach and Audrey at some points. DEAR Jesus if I saw one more reference or insult or description of something being "hipster" I'd yank my hair out. Decent read tho. Probably the most stand-alone of the series.
Read
April 14, 2015He ;) Didn't much like Lucas at first, but the little brat really grew on me. Very sweet story with everything in the right places.
March 2, 2019
2.4 Stars....This book didn’t work for me. The initial “conflict” premise, the dialogue, the plot, the extra characters, the lack of chemistry between the MC’s...none of it drew me in.
It could be a case of it’s me, not the book. Maybe. All I know is that I had absolutely zero investment in what happened to everyone in this story.
I only finished it for a challenge, otherwise I would have DNF’d it long before the end. The only positive was Nick J Russo as narrator.
It could be a case of it’s me, not the book. Maybe. All I know is that I had absolutely zero investment in what happened to everyone in this story.
I only finished it for a challenge, otherwise I would have DNF’d it long before the end. The only positive was Nick J Russo as narrator.
April 15, 2015
2.5 stars
"It didn't suck."
That's the thought I had somewhere around 50% of this book when I was pondering my eventual review. I was really happy to learn Lucas and Gabe were going to get a book after my frustration about the short in Lights, Camera, Cupid. It was a prequel (and I suggest reading it before this book). I liked Lucas a whole lot in that book, and I wanted his HEA. This book is 12 years later, and Lucas should be a grown up man. Instead, it felt like most of his teen resentments and stupid had lived on. In all the time he was gone, he didn't reevaluate his hometown. Instead, he avoided. I suppose this is understandable, and he makes strides as a grown up in the book.
I also thought around 50% that the plot and eventual conflict resolution was predictable. Turns out, I was wrong. The relationship and characters managed to surprise me. So it got better for me.
I think the book was too long. There were too many dragging moments (even some of the sexy times) with a lot of the overwritten introspection scenes. The prequel probably should have been a prologue. Someone recently pointed out the overuse of metaphors in a scene (different book) to me, and this book is a good example of that. There's plenty of navel gazing, but I still don't know if Lucas likes crunchy or smooth peanut butter.
If that paragraph wandered and confused you, consider it a good reflection of the way my mind wandered during this book.
The drunk scene is at least a bit of the LOL I enjoy about Anne Tenino's writing. So plus half a star for that. Overall, I just think it could have been better.
"It didn't suck."
That's the thought I had somewhere around 50% of this book when I was pondering my eventual review. I was really happy to learn Lucas and Gabe were going to get a book after my frustration about the short in Lights, Camera, Cupid. It was a prequel (and I suggest reading it before this book). I liked Lucas a whole lot in that book, and I wanted his HEA. This book is 12 years later, and Lucas should be a grown up man. Instead, it felt like most of his teen resentments and stupid had lived on. In all the time he was gone, he didn't reevaluate his hometown. Instead, he avoided. I suppose this is understandable, and he makes strides as a grown up in the book.
I also thought around 50% that the plot and eventual conflict resolution was predictable. Turns out, I was wrong. The relationship and characters managed to surprise me. So it got better for me.
I think the book was too long. There were too many dragging moments (even some of the sexy times) with a lot of the overwritten introspection scenes. The prequel probably should have been a prologue. Someone recently pointed out the overuse of metaphors in a scene (different book) to me, and this book is a good example of that. There's plenty of navel gazing, but I still don't know if Lucas likes crunchy or smooth peanut butter.
If that paragraph wandered and confused you, consider it a good reflection of the way my mind wandered during this book.
The drunk scene is at least a bit of the LOL I enjoy about Anne Tenino's writing. So plus half a star for that. Overall, I just think it could have been better.
April 29, 2015
This is the first book I've read from Riptide's Bluewater Bay series, and I enjoyed it quite a bit. At times I felt it was a little longer than it needed to be, but overall a solid read with Tenino's trademark humor.
July 27, 2017
I wanted to read about Gabe and Lucas because of reading Seth's romance in a later book in the series.
Seth is Gabe's hook up here. Gabe treats him pretty badly in this book.
While the sex scene are hot here and I like the professions of the two heros as well as the settings and side characters, I never really like them.
They didn't communicate well with each other or themselves in the past and they don't know.
It is irrupting. LOL. And they are still fairly not great with other people. Lucas is a bit socially awkward and internal but Ternino doesn't quite pull off these character traits for me to make up for when he is a jerk and Gabe is callous about everyone but Lucas and then thinks he knows what is best for everyone. Not attractive.
The parts of the book where Gabe and Lucas are attuned (in bed mostly) are great but the rest is neh to grrrr,.
Seth is Gabe's hook up here. Gabe treats him pretty badly in this book.
While the sex scene are hot here and I like the professions of the two heros as well as the settings and side characters, I never really like them.
They didn't communicate well with each other or themselves in the past and they don't know.
It is irrupting. LOL. And they are still fairly not great with other people. Lucas is a bit socially awkward and internal but Ternino doesn't quite pull off these character traits for me to make up for when he is a jerk and Gabe is callous about everyone but Lucas and then thinks he knows what is best for everyone. Not attractive.
The parts of the book where Gabe and Lucas are attuned (in bed mostly) are great but the rest is neh to grrrr,.
May 15, 2017
audio version
I forgot how much I enjoyed this author. This was a great example of her story telling style. This was funny, sweet and steamy. It starts as a bit of an enemies to lovers story due to a fall out between the two MC's back when they were in high school.
I also liked the fact that the story felt realistic. It was believable that these two could come together like they did.
I liked both Lucas & Gabriel as characters and they went well together. I also enjoyed the side characters. They all added to the story and I was so interested in one of them, Seth, that I had to look to see if he had gotten his own book. (I'm glad to report he has & I'm off to read it as well).
This is a long series that is done by a collaboration of authors. Since each of the books is written by a different author they can be read as a standalone with no problems.
This audiobook was narrated by Nick J Russo & I felt like he did a very good job on all of the characters.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I would definitely recommend it.
I forgot how much I enjoyed this author. This was a great example of her story telling style. This was funny, sweet and steamy. It starts as a bit of an enemies to lovers story due to a fall out between the two MC's back when they were in high school.
I also liked the fact that the story felt realistic. It was believable that these two could come together like they did.
I liked both Lucas & Gabriel as characters and they went well together. I also enjoyed the side characters. They all added to the story and I was so interested in one of them, Seth, that I had to look to see if he had gotten his own book. (I'm glad to report he has & I'm off to read it as well).
This is a long series that is done by a collaboration of authors. Since each of the books is written by a different author they can be read as a standalone with no problems.
This audiobook was narrated by Nick J Russo & I felt like he did a very good job on all of the characters.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I would definitely recommend it.
May 18, 2015
I'm so glad that this was the next book in the Bluewater Bay series. I loved the short story that was in Lights, Camera, Cupid... found it so charming. Liked the characters and hoped that they'd find their happy. I also enjoyed that this was a story not about members of the cast and crew for the hit TV series that has planted itself in this sweet little town, but of the locals.
It's about coming home, finding love in family and friends. Finding that one true love that had been hidden for so long. One thing that was important to me...
Lucas and Gabe were a fun couple of guys. I really enjoyed them.
It's about coming home, finding love in family and friends. Finding that one true love that had been hidden for so long. One thing that was important to me...
Lucas and Gabe were a fun couple of guys. I really enjoyed them.
April 18, 2015
I'm a Tenino fan, but this wasn't what I'm used to from her. This was a 2-star read until I reached 80%. I kept chugging along, because it's Tenino, but I was forcing myself to read until that 80% mark.
I never liked Lucas, he was selfish. I liked Gabe, but he wasn't enough to carry the whole story for me. And I never could understand why he wanted Lucas. There's no accounting for taste I guess.
The last 20%, the climax, was good though. That's really about it. Meh. And let's not forget about Lucas comparing Gabe's dick to "the perfect fatty" joint. Really?
I never liked Lucas, he was selfish. I liked Gabe, but he wasn't enough to carry the whole story for me. And I never could understand why he wanted Lucas. There's no accounting for taste I guess.
The last 20%, the climax, was good though. That's really about it. Meh. And let's not forget about Lucas comparing Gabe's dick to "the perfect fatty" joint. Really?
February 21, 2016
Great addition to this fun series. I loved Gabe and Lucas together. The pottery details made it fun, too. Oh to have a studio with a view of the Olympic range.
June 12, 2016
3.75 Stars Oddly specific, I know.
August 3, 2017
If you read the anthology from Valentines day 2015 - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2... - there was a prequel to this story included. That little bit of a story was ever so sweet – featuring Lucas after prom getting his first kiss from Gabe- the older boy he’s been crushing on. It ends, however, HORRIBLY – with Lucas leaving Gabe for school and it isn’t until this book came out that we get to see these guys get a HEA.
What I loved about this book: Gabe. He is sweet, sexy, loyal, funny and determined to do the right thing. The setting – a tree farm in the PNW with a horse drawn carriage in the background! Bruce – what a great horse with a clever name. Gabe’s family – understanding, kind, caring. The smexy times – Super. Hot. All the hipster jokes: if you lived here- you’d understand!
What I didn’t like about this book: Lucas. He was kind of an air-head. Not appreciative of Gabe much at all. Oblivious most of the time to Gabe’s pain and not even that appreciative of his BFF Audrey nor his brother, Zach. The amount of time it took Gabe and Lucas to figure it all out : too long! The short story really worked because it got all the important things out there in a few pages – the reconciliation didn’t need to be this long.
For the story I’d give this 3.75 of 5 stars – not quite 4 stars but really – pretty good.
Audio
Nick J Russo is what convinced me to delve into this. I wasn’t too keen on even reading this story – the Bluewater Bay series has not been my favorite to read, but in audio form I’ve been really pleased. Nick has done several of the books and he does another great job here. He gives Lucas the right tone – light, fanciful, snarky and Gabe a solid, deep voice. He’s good with Audrey and Zach – sorta clueless – too. He’s also very, very good with the smexy times - ;)
Highly enjoyable in audio format and the way to go as far as I’m concerned.
5 of 5 stars
Overall 3.5 of 5 stars
What I loved about this book: Gabe. He is sweet, sexy, loyal, funny and determined to do the right thing. The setting – a tree farm in the PNW with a horse drawn carriage in the background! Bruce – what a great horse with a clever name. Gabe’s family – understanding, kind, caring. The smexy times – Super. Hot. All the hipster jokes: if you lived here- you’d understand!
What I didn’t like about this book: Lucas. He was kind of an air-head. Not appreciative of Gabe much at all. Oblivious most of the time to Gabe’s pain and not even that appreciative of his BFF Audrey nor his brother, Zach. The amount of time it took Gabe and Lucas to figure it all out : too long! The short story really worked because it got all the important things out there in a few pages – the reconciliation didn’t need to be this long.
For the story I’d give this 3.75 of 5 stars – not quite 4 stars but really – pretty good.
Audio
Nick J Russo is what convinced me to delve into this. I wasn’t too keen on even reading this story – the Bluewater Bay series has not been my favorite to read, but in audio form I’ve been really pleased. Nick has done several of the books and he does another great job here. He gives Lucas the right tone – light, fanciful, snarky and Gabe a solid, deep voice. He’s good with Audrey and Zach – sorta clueless – too. He’s also very, very good with the smexy times - ;)
Highly enjoyable in audio format and the way to go as far as I’m concerned.
5 of 5 stars
Overall 3.5 of 5 stars
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