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Bluewater Bay #19
Get a Grip
The Bluewater Bay stories can be enjoyed in any order — jump in wherever you'd like!
If a tree falls in Bluewater Bay . . . could it be fate?
A year after his divorce, Shane Andrews isn’t interested in dating — not that he has time, between three kids and a demanding job as a grip. When a windstorm knocks a tree onto one of the Wolf’s Landing soundstages, Shane’s there to help with the mess . . . and so is firefighter Aaron Tucker.
A former smoke jumper, Aaron’s an adrenaline junkie and way too restless and reckless to be relationship material. As far as he’s concerned, monogamy is for penguins, and he’d rather be alone than tied down. Signing up to be a stepparent? No, thank you.
But after a scorching-hot night together, they’re hooked. Aaron is a taste of the excitement Shane’s been lacking, and Shane’s pushing buttons Aaron didn’t know he had. The more they’re together, the less Aaron craves wild nights with other men . . . but the more Shane wants to play the field like he never got to in his twenties.
This could be the love neither man knew he needed, but only if Shane gets his feet back on the ground before Aaron walks away.
Word 80,000; page 300
If a tree falls in Bluewater Bay . . . could it be fate?
A year after his divorce, Shane Andrews isn’t interested in dating — not that he has time, between three kids and a demanding job as a grip. When a windstorm knocks a tree onto one of the Wolf’s Landing soundstages, Shane’s there to help with the mess . . . and so is firefighter Aaron Tucker.
A former smoke jumper, Aaron’s an adrenaline junkie and way too restless and reckless to be relationship material. As far as he’s concerned, monogamy is for penguins, and he’d rather be alone than tied down. Signing up to be a stepparent? No, thank you.
But after a scorching-hot night together, they’re hooked. Aaron is a taste of the excitement Shane’s been lacking, and Shane’s pushing buttons Aaron didn’t know he had. The more they’re together, the less Aaron craves wild nights with other men . . . but the more Shane wants to play the field like he never got to in his twenties.
This could be the love neither man knew he needed, but only if Shane gets his feet back on the ground before Aaron walks away.
Word 80,000; page 300
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2017
About the author
L.A. Witt
223 books2,791 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 1, 2017
I turned the last page with a smile on my face.
Fantastic. Sweet and funny and, most of all, heartwarming.
Shane is a single dad of three. He hasn't had good luck in the relationship department. One missing baby mama and two divorces later, he's ready to reclaim his lost youth.
Aaron Tucker is a bit of an adrenaline junkie. That includes not being tied down to a single partner. He's not a stranger to commitment, but now in his forties, he's happy to take whatever fun life offers and appreciate the thrill.
When Aaron and Shane first lay eyes on each other the heat is immediate. When Aaron sees Shane's new profile on Grindr it's inevitable, the flames flare.
As sweet as this story is, it does not lack in the heat department. Aaron and Shane burn up the sheets!
Great, easy romance with only a touch of angst. I adored it!
Review ARC graciously provided by the publisher via NetGalley
Fantastic. Sweet and funny and, most of all, heartwarming.
Shane is a single dad of three. He hasn't had good luck in the relationship department. One missing baby mama and two divorces later, he's ready to reclaim his lost youth.
Aaron Tucker is a bit of an adrenaline junkie. That includes not being tied down to a single partner. He's not a stranger to commitment, but now in his forties, he's happy to take whatever fun life offers and appreciate the thrill.
When Aaron and Shane first lay eyes on each other the heat is immediate. When Aaron sees Shane's new profile on Grindr it's inevitable, the flames flare.
As sweet as this story is, it does not lack in the heat department. Aaron and Shane burn up the sheets!
Great, easy romance with only a touch of angst. I adored it!
Review ARC graciously provided by the publisher via NetGalley
September 3, 2017
3.5 Stars
This is the kind of LA Witt story I've come to love. Get a Grip just worked for me. There was the the perfect blend of character and relationship development and plenty of sex, but never too much. The story is told in dual alternating POV, so we get plenty of perspective into each MC.
Shane Andrews, 33, is a year out of his second marriage and he's finally ready to put himself back out there. He's a relationship kind of guy, but he isn't sure he wants a relationship since he's been divorced twice already, and is still feeling the burn from it. He's also a dedicated father of three and feels guilty for even wanting something for himself.
Aaron Tucker, 46, is a former smoke jumper who had to give up full-time firefighting when a jump killed his knee. He still volunteers, part-time, as a firefighter in Bluewater Bay, though, and he's not about to give that up until he doesn't have a choice. That doesn't pay the bills, though. For that, he owns a local garage.
After a bad storm comes through Bluewater Bay and fells a whole lot of trees -- including one that crashed through one of Wolf's Landing's sound stages, Aaron's team was onsite to help remove the tree and he meets the younger, and oh so gorgeous, Shane, who is a grip for the show.
Their chemistry was apparent, right away, and there is no slow burn here. Nope, they get together for sex shortly after meeting and it was hot. So they keep it up. I was curious as to how it would all play out, because Aaron was very much gun shy when it came to the "R" word, while Shane may not think he wants a relationship, but that's all he's really built for.
Aaron promises to make sure all of Shane's fantasy's come to life, and Shane loves the idea that, now that his kids are a little older and don't need him 24/7, he can sow a few wild oats. Win-win, right? Their chemistry was spot on, too.
I enjoyed their relationship development quite a lot. I've missed that in a couple other recent books by this author, but it is in Get a Grip in spades. We get to know both MC's, as well as Shane's kids and Aaron's pets. We get to see Shane and Aaron cuddle on the couch with a movie and have conversations that aren't about sex. And I loved it. And though I felt their inevitable separation period was a touch contrived, and the resolution a touch too neat, I enjoyed Aaron and Shane figuring their relationship out and deciding to stop fighting it so hard.
I was also appreciative that, even though Shane's ex-husband, Leo, is in the book, there is exactly zero drama from his corner. He was a great guy who co-parents with Shane, even though none of the children are biologically his, and he was very encouraging of Shane to get out there and be happy. I absolutely despise ex-spouse drama and there was none to be found here. Thank you, thank you!
Overall, I enjoyed Get a Grip. I think it's an enjoyable and low angst addition to the Bluewater Bay universe.
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Review copy of Get a Grip was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is the kind of LA Witt story I've come to love. Get a Grip just worked for me. There was the the perfect blend of character and relationship development and plenty of sex, but never too much. The story is told in dual alternating POV, so we get plenty of perspective into each MC.
Shane Andrews, 33, is a year out of his second marriage and he's finally ready to put himself back out there. He's a relationship kind of guy, but he isn't sure he wants a relationship since he's been divorced twice already, and is still feeling the burn from it. He's also a dedicated father of three and feels guilty for even wanting something for himself.
Aaron Tucker, 46, is a former smoke jumper who had to give up full-time firefighting when a jump killed his knee. He still volunteers, part-time, as a firefighter in Bluewater Bay, though, and he's not about to give that up until he doesn't have a choice. That doesn't pay the bills, though. For that, he owns a local garage.
After a bad storm comes through Bluewater Bay and fells a whole lot of trees -- including one that crashed through one of Wolf's Landing's sound stages, Aaron's team was onsite to help remove the tree and he meets the younger, and oh so gorgeous, Shane, who is a grip for the show.
Their chemistry was apparent, right away, and there is no slow burn here. Nope, they get together for sex shortly after meeting and it was hot. So they keep it up. I was curious as to how it would all play out, because Aaron was very much gun shy when it came to the "R" word, while Shane may not think he wants a relationship, but that's all he's really built for.
Aaron promises to make sure all of Shane's fantasy's come to life, and Shane loves the idea that, now that his kids are a little older and don't need him 24/7, he can sow a few wild oats. Win-win, right? Their chemistry was spot on, too.
I enjoyed their relationship development quite a lot. I've missed that in a couple other recent books by this author, but it is in Get a Grip in spades. We get to know both MC's, as well as Shane's kids and Aaron's pets. We get to see Shane and Aaron cuddle on the couch with a movie and have conversations that aren't about sex. And I loved it. And though I felt their inevitable separation period was a touch contrived, and the resolution a touch too neat, I enjoyed Aaron and Shane figuring their relationship out and deciding to stop fighting it so hard.
I was also appreciative that, even though Shane's ex-husband, Leo, is in the book, there is exactly zero drama from his corner. He was a great guy who co-parents with Shane, even though none of the children are biologically his, and he was very encouraging of Shane to get out there and be happy. I absolutely despise ex-spouse drama and there was none to be found here. Thank you, thank you!
Overall, I enjoyed Get a Grip. I think it's an enjoyable and low angst addition to the Bluewater Bay universe.
-----------------
Review copy of Get a Grip was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2017
I have a soft spot for LA Witt : her contemporary romances appeal to me most of the time. And no surprise, here : once again, the recipe worked for me.
Shane was Dad at a very early age (18), then got married twice and had 2 more kids. He is a very dedicated father and takes his responsibilities seriously, but has no time for himself.
Aaron is single, an adrenaline junkie and not into relationships, despite being now 46.
When they meet, the attraction is immediate and they don’t waste time in settling in a routine where Shane can forget his dry spell and finally having some excitement he has been denied as a young adult while keeping his children out of having to deal with another family separation, and Aaron is more than ready to oblige.
From there, you get what you expect from LA Witt : some pretty hot sex scenes, two sexy MCs, and a relationship-oriented romance. And as the blurb says it well : ”The more they’re together, the less Aaron craves wild nights with other men . . . but the more Shane wants to play the field like he never got to in his twenties”.
Exactly what I was looking for from LA Witt, with the additional perk of one of the MCs being mature (46) and the novelty of one of the MCs having three kids.
I just would have wished for a longer epilogue (the ending is quite abrupt) and a better book cover.
Shane was Dad at a very early age (18), then got married twice and had 2 more kids. He is a very dedicated father and takes his responsibilities seriously, but has no time for himself.
Aaron is single, an adrenaline junkie and not into relationships, despite being now 46.
When they meet, the attraction is immediate and they don’t waste time in settling in a routine where Shane can forget his dry spell and finally having some excitement he has been denied as a young adult while keeping his children out of having to deal with another family separation, and Aaron is more than ready to oblige.
From there, you get what you expect from LA Witt : some pretty hot sex scenes, two sexy MCs, and a relationship-oriented romance. And as the blurb says it well : ”The more they’re together, the less Aaron craves wild nights with other men . . . but the more Shane wants to play the field like he never got to in his twenties”.
Exactly what I was looking for from LA Witt, with the additional perk of one of the MCs being mature (46) and the novelty of one of the MCs having three kids.
I just would have wished for a longer epilogue (the ending is quite abrupt) and a better book cover.
August 24, 2017
Get a grip doesn't mean what I thought it meant...
I was actually going to take a pass on this one. I'm not even really sure why probably more a case of 'so many books, so little time'. Anyways, somewhere along the way during my reading of 'Three Player Game' book #20, this one keep niggling at my brain and I peeked at it more than a couple of times finally deciding that if I was going to spend this much time reading the blurb and starting at the cover, I needed to read the book and just get it done.
What I discovered was that I would have missed out on a really good story if I'd kept to my original plan and skipped this one. Sometimes changing your mind really is a good idea.
Shane's works as a 'grip' on the set of 'Wolf's Landing', he's bi and the father of 3 a teenage daughter and twin boys. It's been a long time since he's dated and after his last divorce he's decided that his relationships needed to be attachment free.
Aaron own's a local garage, he's a volunteer firefighter and adrenaline junkie. He's also a confirmed bachelor who belongs to a large dog named Jack and three cats...Snowball, Oreo and Tiger and luckily he likes his relationships attachment free as well. It's a match made in heaven, right?
Or at least it should be. But when what you think you want suddenly becomes what you have and the last thing you need. Things can get a little confusing. Shane just wants some no strings attached sex and the chance to relive his youth...the one that he missed because he was busy being a single dad raising his kids. But now that they're getting older and don't need him there quite as much...maybe, it's time for Shane to take a walk on the wild side.
When Aaron shows up on the Wolf's Landing sound stage following a storm that's done some serious damage. Both men are interested but work is neither the time nor the place in either of their opinions. Later that day when Aaron spots Shane on Grindr, Aaron's surprise is quickly replaced with renewed interest leading to what's suppose to be a one time hook-up that quickly turns into more taking things from one-time to as often as they can.
My biggest reservation with this one was that it was going to be over the top sex that would have me rolling my eyes and the story getting lost because of it...not an unrealistic expectation given that this relationship is very much a 'lust-at-first-sight' situation. But sometimes ya just gotta' have faith and I've read enough L. A. Witt books lately that I've really enjoyed to realize I should have known better.
Shane and Aaron definitely have their share of sexy times but I'm good with the how the author handled this. Not all the sex is on page, or given in totally graphic detail, but don't panic, we're given some very good sexy times with these two. The not graphic and off page is well balanced with the hot, steamy times that are very much present and on page and along with this we're given two men getting to know each other. Sharing time together that doesn't always involve getting naked but talking and cuddling and kissing these two love to kiss...which for me can be every bit as hot and sexy as getting naked when there's hearts involved.
I loved Shane and Aaron. I loved that they were both older. Shane is in his 40s and Aaron is in his early 30s, so they've both been around for a while and have a bit of life experience under their belts. I was thoroughly take with their relationship from how it started to how it grew and changed and ultimately how things came to be resolved between them. it was a hard earned HEA for these two and one that I was so happy to see them finally get.
'Get a Grip' is book #20 in the Bluewater Bay series and while I've only read 11 of them (including this one)...yes, I have some catching up to do and I'm looking forward to it. I've enjoyed reading this series and although it goes against my 'must read in order' compulsion I've come to really appreciate how easily these books can be read out of order and still fully enjoyed.
********************
An ARC of 'Get a Grip' was graciously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was actually going to take a pass on this one. I'm not even really sure why probably more a case of 'so many books, so little time'. Anyways, somewhere along the way during my reading of 'Three Player Game' book #20, this one keep niggling at my brain and I peeked at it more than a couple of times finally deciding that if I was going to spend this much time reading the blurb and starting at the cover, I needed to read the book and just get it done.
What I discovered was that I would have missed out on a really good story if I'd kept to my original plan and skipped this one. Sometimes changing your mind really is a good idea.
Shane's works as a 'grip' on the set of 'Wolf's Landing', he's bi and the father of 3 a teenage daughter and twin boys. It's been a long time since he's dated and after his last divorce he's decided that his relationships needed to be attachment free.
Aaron own's a local garage, he's a volunteer firefighter and adrenaline junkie. He's also a confirmed bachelor who belongs to a large dog named Jack and three cats...Snowball, Oreo and Tiger and luckily he likes his relationships attachment free as well. It's a match made in heaven, right?
Or at least it should be. But when what you think you want suddenly becomes what you have and the last thing you need. Things can get a little confusing. Shane just wants some no strings attached sex and the chance to relive his youth...the one that he missed because he was busy being a single dad raising his kids. But now that they're getting older and don't need him there quite as much...maybe, it's time for Shane to take a walk on the wild side.
When Aaron shows up on the Wolf's Landing sound stage following a storm that's done some serious damage. Both men are interested but work is neither the time nor the place in either of their opinions. Later that day when Aaron spots Shane on Grindr, Aaron's surprise is quickly replaced with renewed interest leading to what's suppose to be a one time hook-up that quickly turns into more taking things from one-time to as often as they can.
My biggest reservation with this one was that it was going to be over the top sex that would have me rolling my eyes and the story getting lost because of it...not an unrealistic expectation given that this relationship is very much a 'lust-at-first-sight' situation. But sometimes ya just gotta' have faith and I've read enough L. A. Witt books lately that I've really enjoyed to realize I should have known better.
Shane and Aaron definitely have their share of sexy times but I'm good with the how the author handled this. Not all the sex is on page, or given in totally graphic detail, but don't panic, we're given some very good sexy times with these two. The not graphic and off page is well balanced with the hot, steamy times that are very much present and on page and along with this we're given two men getting to know each other. Sharing time together that doesn't always involve getting naked but talking and cuddling and kissing these two love to kiss...which for me can be every bit as hot and sexy as getting naked when there's hearts involved.
I loved Shane and Aaron. I loved that they were both older. Shane is in his 40s and Aaron is in his early 30s, so they've both been around for a while and have a bit of life experience under their belts. I was thoroughly take with their relationship from how it started to how it grew and changed and ultimately how things came to be resolved between them. it was a hard earned HEA for these two and one that I was so happy to see them finally get.
'Get a Grip' is book #20 in the Bluewater Bay series and while I've only read 11 of them (including this one)...yes, I have some catching up to do and I'm looking forward to it. I've enjoyed reading this series and although it goes against my 'must read in order' compulsion I've come to really appreciate how easily these books can be read out of order and still fully enjoyed.
********************
An ARC of 'Get a Grip' was graciously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2017
I’m sure none of us are surprised that, once again, L.A. Witt has written a book I’ve fallen in love with. I mean, honestly, it’s like she wrote it just for me. Adrenaline junkie firefighter? Mhm, yes good. Single dad? Hai! (Who still has good relationships with his ex-spouses? Hnngg, yes.) A multitude of pets? L O V E. Fuck buddies that turns into “oh no I have FEELS”? A FAVORITE. This book has so much to love!
Check out the full review on my blog!
Check out the full review on my blog!
December 31, 2017
3.5 stars
Another good read from Bluewater Bay (yes, I'm backtracking some of the earlier titles now that the universe ended). I like how the relationship progresses -- although I was quite annoyed with Shane with how he dealt with Aaron's willingness to move forward near the end. At least the guy owned and admitted that he was scared.
I absolutely LOVED reading about Shane's positive relationship with his ex-es, by the way. How his ex husband still involved in raising the kids. Their marriage might be over, but it's on them, not them and the kids.
I loved Aaron's pets!
I liked learning about Shane's occupation as a grip, though I wish there were more scenes involving it his job.
I couldn't rate this higher because the whole "Shane sowing his wild oats, and Aaron being relationship phobic" was not exactly favorite theme of mine.
Another good read from Bluewater Bay (yes, I'm backtracking some of the earlier titles now that the universe ended). I like how the relationship progresses -- although I was quite annoyed with Shane with how he dealt with Aaron's willingness to move forward near the end. At least the guy owned and admitted that he was scared.
I absolutely LOVED reading about Shane's positive relationship with his ex-es, by the way. How his ex husband still involved in raising the kids. Their marriage might be over, but it's on them, not them and the kids.
I loved Aaron's pets!
I liked learning about Shane's occupation as a grip, though I wish there were more scenes involving it his job.
I couldn't rate this higher because the whole "Shane sowing his wild oats, and Aaron being relationship phobic" was not exactly favorite theme of mine.
July 26, 2017
4.5 Stars
Shane is a grip on the Wolf's Landing set. When a bad storm blows through town, a 100 year-old tree lands on one of the buildings housing a portion of the Wolf's Landing set, and the crew has to call out the fire department to help remove it. When the fire department arrives Shane comes face to face with one of the firemen, Aaron, and suddenly he's all tongue-tied and fumbling. Aaron is smoking hot and makes Shane's body want things he hasn't let himself think about since his last divorce the year before.
One night of sweaty fun between the sheets, left Shane a father at the age of 18, and now he's the sole caregiver for his three children. Now that they are getting older, Shane decides maybe it's time to try to recapture some of what he missed throughout his twenties. When Shane and Aaron find one another on Grindr, Shane decides Aaron would be the perfect candidate to help him live out some of his wild and crazy fantasies.
Aaron has done relationships in the past, but he's been burned and now he'll only consent to "no strings attached" sex. He doesn't want serious and he definitely isn't a step-father candidate, but he can't seem to stay away from the hunky grip. He wants Shane, but as the weeks and months pass, Aaron finds that maybe Shane is the one person that he can have more than just a friends with benefits relationship with, but can he convince Shane to give him a chance?
I really enjoyed this story. Both characters were very likable and although I wanted to give them both a smack upside the head at times to make them see what was right in front of them, I really did love them both. The story is well-written and except for being a tad slow in the middle, it was paced pretty well. Shane and Aaron had amazing chemistry and while they have a lot of sex, most of it takes place off page, so the book isn't overloaded with sex. In fact, I wouldn't have minded another sex scene or two.
I really liked Shane's children. They added to the story without taking over it. Ms. Witt did a wonderful job at balancing their scenes throughout the story, to let the reader get to know them, without it being overwhelming.
This was a well-written and enjoyable read. Very recommendable!
*copy provided to me by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Shane is a grip on the Wolf's Landing set. When a bad storm blows through town, a 100 year-old tree lands on one of the buildings housing a portion of the Wolf's Landing set, and the crew has to call out the fire department to help remove it. When the fire department arrives Shane comes face to face with one of the firemen, Aaron, and suddenly he's all tongue-tied and fumbling. Aaron is smoking hot and makes Shane's body want things he hasn't let himself think about since his last divorce the year before.
One night of sweaty fun between the sheets, left Shane a father at the age of 18, and now he's the sole caregiver for his three children. Now that they are getting older, Shane decides maybe it's time to try to recapture some of what he missed throughout his twenties. When Shane and Aaron find one another on Grindr, Shane decides Aaron would be the perfect candidate to help him live out some of his wild and crazy fantasies.
Aaron has done relationships in the past, but he's been burned and now he'll only consent to "no strings attached" sex. He doesn't want serious and he definitely isn't a step-father candidate, but he can't seem to stay away from the hunky grip. He wants Shane, but as the weeks and months pass, Aaron finds that maybe Shane is the one person that he can have more than just a friends with benefits relationship with, but can he convince Shane to give him a chance?
I really enjoyed this story. Both characters were very likable and although I wanted to give them both a smack upside the head at times to make them see what was right in front of them, I really did love them both. The story is well-written and except for being a tad slow in the middle, it was paced pretty well. Shane and Aaron had amazing chemistry and while they have a lot of sex, most of it takes place off page, so the book isn't overloaded with sex. In fact, I wouldn't have minded another sex scene or two.
I really liked Shane's children. They added to the story without taking over it. Ms. Witt did a wonderful job at balancing their scenes throughout the story, to let the reader get to know them, without it being overwhelming.
This was a well-written and enjoyable read. Very recommendable!
*copy provided to me by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
August 30, 2017
4.5 - 5... I really liked Aaron and Shane... and everyone else in Get a Grip, to be honest. ;)
Yep… it’s another L.A. Witt addition to my review pile. She’s been one busy author lately, but I’m NOT complaining. Especially when she found time to introduce readers to another Bluewater Bay couple. Aaron and Shane turned out to be among my favorites. 😉
Besides the fact that I loved Aaron and Shane in Get a Grip, I loved the twist. Neither one of these guys were looking for anything serious, as a matter of fact, Aaron hardly ever looked beyond a single encounter. There was something about Shane that pulled him in though. Shane felt the same pull, but he had his kids to think about as well as the fact that he had only really experienced long term relationships, which hadn’t exactly worked out so well. He was definitely not ready to tie himself down again. And there was the twist… the playboy found himself ready to settle down and the family man wanted to keep things casual.
There were a couple of other things that I really loved about this story. The supporting characters were great (especially Leo… I liked Leo a lot 😉 ) The mutual love and respect that Shane shared with his ex was great. That love and respect carried over to the kids, which won me over even more. (I’m secretly kind of hoping that readers get to see more of Leo… ❤ )
Needless to say, Get a Grip was a great addition to the Bluewater Bay series. The next book in the series is Three Player Game by Jaime Samms, which I’ve already read and reviewed. Coming in October is Anna Zabo’s Outside the Lines.
I received Get a Grip in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Yep… it’s another L.A. Witt addition to my review pile. She’s been one busy author lately, but I’m NOT complaining. Especially when she found time to introduce readers to another Bluewater Bay couple. Aaron and Shane turned out to be among my favorites. 😉
Besides the fact that I loved Aaron and Shane in Get a Grip, I loved the twist. Neither one of these guys were looking for anything serious, as a matter of fact, Aaron hardly ever looked beyond a single encounter. There was something about Shane that pulled him in though. Shane felt the same pull, but he had his kids to think about as well as the fact that he had only really experienced long term relationships, which hadn’t exactly worked out so well. He was definitely not ready to tie himself down again. And there was the twist… the playboy found himself ready to settle down and the family man wanted to keep things casual.
There were a couple of other things that I really loved about this story. The supporting characters were great (especially Leo… I liked Leo a lot 😉 ) The mutual love and respect that Shane shared with his ex was great. That love and respect carried over to the kids, which won me over even more. (I’m secretly kind of hoping that readers get to see more of Leo… ❤ )
Needless to say, Get a Grip was a great addition to the Bluewater Bay series. The next book in the series is Three Player Game by Jaime Samms, which I’ve already read and reviewed. Coming in October is Anna Zabo’s Outside the Lines.
I received Get a Grip in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 20, 2018
What a story. Sweet, sexy but so real. Relationships are hard work. Especially when families are involved. Good to see stories like this
September 10, 2017
Get a Grip
L.A. Witt
What's it's about:
If a tree falls in Bluewater Bay . . . could it be fate?
A year after his divorce, Shane Andrews isn’t interested in dating—not that he has time, between three kids and a demanding job as a grip. When a windstorm knocks a tree onto one of the Wolf’s Landing soundstages, Shane’s there to help with the mess . . . and so is firefighter Aaron Tucker.
A former smoke jumper, Aaron’s an adrenaline junkie and way too restless and reckless to be relationship material. As far as he’s concerned, monogamy is for penguins, and he’d rather be alone than tied down. Signing up to be a stepparent? No, thank you.
But after a scorching-hot night together, they’re hooked. Aaron is a taste of the excitement Shane’s been lacking, and Shane’s pushing buttons Aaron didn’t know he had. The more they’re together, the less Aaron craves wild nights with other men . . . but the more Shane wants to play the field like he never got to in his twenties.
This could be the love neither man knew he needed, but only if Shane gets his feet back on the ground before Aaron walks away
My thoughts
A steamy hot romance,
At all I can say about it,now I need to get the rest of the series, with that said I want to think NetGalley for the chance finding a new series I actually want to read .
September 8, 2017
Damn you internet for eating my review. Okay, I really liked many things about this, the way the relationship was depicted as FWB without guilt, that Aaron wasn't jealous of Shane being with other guys (at least not with him there), the positive relationships Shane had with his exes, that he was openly bisexual and probably my disappointment was that the threesome never did happen. Otherwise, I enjoyed it a great deal. (shorter version of what I wrote the first time)
August 3, 2017
Loved those two. :)
Thanks for another great story in the Bluewater Bay series.
July 26, 2017
My Review:
I really enjoyed this book, although I read it during a crazy week, so it took me four days to get through it. It just made me enjoy the story more because I truly got to immerse myself into the details of the story.
I liked these guys just because they are both older, although they don't really want to accept the reality of that. Aaron has lived the life of a single, go-lucky, adrenaline junkie. Shane got a girl pregnant at the age of eighteen, so he's always had the responsibility. He's never had the chance to be the happy go lucky guy that Aaron has had. But now that his kids are older and he has his second divorce under his belt, he no longer wants serious relationships. Been there, done that, sucks at that. He's just at a point where he wants to have fun. Aaron is willing to do that with him especially since the sex is so incredibly hot.
The book was interesting. Shane is a monogamous guy. That's just his default, no matter that he doesn't want a serious relationship. He has to fight against that almost this entire book. That isn't the type of relationship these two guys have. Aaron sure isn't going to accept to being tied down to a guy with three kids. He's not a person who would be okay stepping into a ready-made family.
So both guys are automatically rebelling against the idea of a relationship, although they settle into that in reality pretty quickly. These guys are just really in sync. They work together and their chemistry is fantastic. They balance one another out really well.
Overall, I thought this book was a great addition to this series. I love this series so much and love that I can jump in and out of the series depending on how much the book appeals to me. This story was a definite recommend from me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book, although I read it during a crazy week, so it took me four days to get through it. It just made me enjoy the story more because I truly got to immerse myself into the details of the story.
I liked these guys just because they are both older, although they don't really want to accept the reality of that. Aaron has lived the life of a single, go-lucky, adrenaline junkie. Shane got a girl pregnant at the age of eighteen, so he's always had the responsibility. He's never had the chance to be the happy go lucky guy that Aaron has had. But now that his kids are older and he has his second divorce under his belt, he no longer wants serious relationships. Been there, done that, sucks at that. He's just at a point where he wants to have fun. Aaron is willing to do that with him especially since the sex is so incredibly hot.
The book was interesting. Shane is a monogamous guy. That's just his default, no matter that he doesn't want a serious relationship. He has to fight against that almost this entire book. That isn't the type of relationship these two guys have. Aaron sure isn't going to accept to being tied down to a guy with three kids. He's not a person who would be okay stepping into a ready-made family.
So both guys are automatically rebelling against the idea of a relationship, although they settle into that in reality pretty quickly. These guys are just really in sync. They work together and their chemistry is fantastic. They balance one another out really well.
Overall, I thought this book was a great addition to this series. I love this series so much and love that I can jump in and out of the series depending on how much the book appeals to me. This story was a definite recommend from me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
October 2, 2017
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
First off I loved this book. I found it seriously hot. The chemistry between Aaron and Shane is off the charts. In preparing to write the review I was trying to think of why I clicked with this story. It is well written but isn't a new story to me. Two guys who want a no strings attached affair that end up wanting more. Plenty of stories out there along similar lines.
Then I realised Shane was the reason I was so sucked into this book. Shane becomes a parent young and is now a single Dad to 3 kids who are starting to grow up. Twice divorced he is now wanting to go out and have the kind of fun he missed out on when he was young. That I can relate to. As a parent whose child is soon to hit adulthood I understood Shane and had a ball living vicariously through him. There was plenty to like around Aaron too. He is a volunteer fireman and an animal lover and I adored the way he treated and interacted with his fur babies.
Get a Grip is another great Bluewater Bay novel.
First off I loved this book. I found it seriously hot. The chemistry between Aaron and Shane is off the charts. In preparing to write the review I was trying to think of why I clicked with this story. It is well written but isn't a new story to me. Two guys who want a no strings attached affair that end up wanting more. Plenty of stories out there along similar lines.
Then I realised Shane was the reason I was so sucked into this book. Shane becomes a parent young and is now a single Dad to 3 kids who are starting to grow up. Twice divorced he is now wanting to go out and have the kind of fun he missed out on when he was young. That I can relate to. As a parent whose child is soon to hit adulthood I understood Shane and had a ball living vicariously through him. There was plenty to like around Aaron too. He is a volunteer fireman and an animal lover and I adored the way he treated and interacted with his fur babies.
Get a Grip is another great Bluewater Bay novel.
September 2, 2017
Sexy, sweet and funny story that kept me turning the pages and left me with a smile on my face when i read the last page.
I loved the idea of sex buddies falling for each other without even realizing it - one of my fave tropes to read about, throw in the fact one of the MC's is a single dad who is still on good terms with his ex's and it just made this to be such good book to read in one setting.
The sexual tension between the characters was fun and flirty and it was nice to have an actual story line running alongside the chemistry rather then be overwhelming.
All the Bluewater Bay stories bring something new to the table and I for one do not want it to ever end.
I loved the idea of sex buddies falling for each other without even realizing it - one of my fave tropes to read about, throw in the fact one of the MC's is a single dad who is still on good terms with his ex's and it just made this to be such good book to read in one setting.
The sexual tension between the characters was fun and flirty and it was nice to have an actual story line running alongside the chemistry rather then be overwhelming.
All the Bluewater Bay stories bring something new to the table and I for one do not want it to ever end.
July 24, 2017
Who knew that after being in a reading funk for about 2 weeks all it would take to get over it would be a part time Firefighter/Mechanic and a Single dad/Grip. But I devoured this book! I couldn’t put it down and may have read while I was supposed to be working. Shhh don’t tell my boss
Let’s start with Aaron, a former smoke jumper who is now a part time firefighter and owner of an auto repair shop. No room in his life for a relationship except with his dog Jack and 3 cats (even one who doesn’t like him lol)
Then we have Shane, a single dad with 3 kids, twice divorced and grip on a television show. If you’re not sure what a grip is (like me) then I recommend you read the book.
All Shane has ever known is relationships, he’s never been able to just have fun and play the field. He and Aaron come to the agreement that Aaron will help Shane live on the edge and have some fun.
The chemistry between the two is off the hook. I love that Aaron and Shane crave each other and always sneaking off to have some fun
There are 2 main things I took away from this book; 1. Loves come when you least expect and ex’s can be friends, especially when kids are involved.
Want to know what I’m talking about them read the book, you won’t be disappointed.
Let’s start with Aaron, a former smoke jumper who is now a part time firefighter and owner of an auto repair shop. No room in his life for a relationship except with his dog Jack and 3 cats (even one who doesn’t like him lol)
Then we have Shane, a single dad with 3 kids, twice divorced and grip on a television show. If you’re not sure what a grip is (like me) then I recommend you read the book.
All Shane has ever known is relationships, he’s never been able to just have fun and play the field. He and Aaron come to the agreement that Aaron will help Shane live on the edge and have some fun.
The chemistry between the two is off the hook. I love that Aaron and Shane crave each other and always sneaking off to have some fun
There are 2 main things I took away from this book; 1. Loves come when you least expect and ex’s can be friends, especially when kids are involved.
Want to know what I’m talking about them read the book, you won’t be disappointed.
June 13, 2018
I liked this realistic story between two mature MCs (one in his 30s and the other in his 40s). One had children at a young age and has never really "sown his oats." The other has been burned in relationships before. Luckily for them, neither wants anything long-term or with strings. Unfortunately, it gets hard for them to ignore the chemistry.
Read
June 15, 2017July 24th, 2017.
September 7, 2017
A hook up that became the real deal. We've seen this trope many times but when it's done right it's one of my favorite themes. In this book it's absolutely done right!
There is no rush. Their deal is clear and at first it works just fine. When feelings come out to play it happens in stages and not unexpectedly and out of the blue.
In the beginning, Shane was a bit all over the place, not knowing what he wanted and unable to decide how he felt about a casual arrangement. He changed his mind all the time, even in the course of a single dialogue and I struggled to follow his thought process. I guess it was a bit understanable as he found himself with a bit of freedom and the ability to be a bit wild for the first time in his life.
Aaron, even though he was seeking adrenaline and excitement, read as the more grounded of the two. He knew what he wanted and was able to communicate it to Shane. He was content with how his life had turned out and was happy with his choices.
As a bonus, this book has a huge, adorable boxer mix named Jack who loves to cuddle and has a whip for a tail. It also has three cats but Jack's presense overshadowed all other pets. What can I say? I'm a dog person so he stole the show whenever he was in a scene.
I liked that Shane's kids had a role in the story and weren't just names thrown around. Shane spent time with them on page and interacted with them. I would have liked more scenes with them and Aaron in the same room though.
At times I had trouble remembering who was supposed to narrate the chapter I was reading. The story is told in first person and the narrator changes in every chapter. Their voices were pretty similar so I often had to turn back and reread dialogues in order to understand who was saying what. It bothered me a bit and frustrated me because I was pulled out of the story but in the end it didn't do much damage to the story.
I enjoyed reading this book and I liked the MCs as well as the side characters. The fact that Shane was able to be friends with his exes made me like him even more. Leo was an amazing person from what little we got to see of him. I will read his story in a heartbeat if it's ever told. I liked his relationship with the kids and the fact that he wanted and managed to remain in their lives after the divorce with Shane.
What I didn't like was the ending. It felt rushed and like everything was neatly tied with a big red bow in order for the characters to find their HEA. I wanted to see more of them as a committed couple trying to merge their lives together. With kids, pets, friends, jobs and exes in the mix it should be an ineresting process to witness. I also wanted to see Aaron trying to win the trust and acceptance of Shane's kids instead of just getting it.
If I could, I would have read this in one sitting. I kept wanting to find out if Shane was going to sow the wild oats that he wanted so much. The fun part is that I couldn't decide if I wanted him to succeed or not. I think I liked reading about his fantasies but didn't want to see him actually making them come true. I won't tell you if he experienced everything he wanted to because that's one of the things that I wanted to keep reading and find out for myself. I will tell you though that he had Aaron with him for the ride...
4.5 stars for an amazing casual-to-serious relationship!
This review has been cross-posted on The Novel Approach Reviews.
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via The Novel Approach Reviews in exchange for an honest review. *
There is no rush. Their deal is clear and at first it works just fine. When feelings come out to play it happens in stages and not unexpectedly and out of the blue.
In the beginning, Shane was a bit all over the place, not knowing what he wanted and unable to decide how he felt about a casual arrangement. He changed his mind all the time, even in the course of a single dialogue and I struggled to follow his thought process. I guess it was a bit understanable as he found himself with a bit of freedom and the ability to be a bit wild for the first time in his life.
Aaron, even though he was seeking adrenaline and excitement, read as the more grounded of the two. He knew what he wanted and was able to communicate it to Shane. He was content with how his life had turned out and was happy with his choices.
As a bonus, this book has a huge, adorable boxer mix named Jack who loves to cuddle and has a whip for a tail. It also has three cats but Jack's presense overshadowed all other pets. What can I say? I'm a dog person so he stole the show whenever he was in a scene.
I liked that Shane's kids had a role in the story and weren't just names thrown around. Shane spent time with them on page and interacted with them. I would have liked more scenes with them and Aaron in the same room though.
At times I had trouble remembering who was supposed to narrate the chapter I was reading. The story is told in first person and the narrator changes in every chapter. Their voices were pretty similar so I often had to turn back and reread dialogues in order to understand who was saying what. It bothered me a bit and frustrated me because I was pulled out of the story but in the end it didn't do much damage to the story.
I enjoyed reading this book and I liked the MCs as well as the side characters. The fact that Shane was able to be friends with his exes made me like him even more. Leo was an amazing person from what little we got to see of him. I will read his story in a heartbeat if it's ever told. I liked his relationship with the kids and the fact that he wanted and managed to remain in their lives after the divorce with Shane.
What I didn't like was the ending. It felt rushed and like everything was neatly tied with a big red bow in order for the characters to find their HEA. I wanted to see more of them as a committed couple trying to merge their lives together. With kids, pets, friends, jobs and exes in the mix it should be an ineresting process to witness. I also wanted to see Aaron trying to win the trust and acceptance of Shane's kids instead of just getting it.
If I could, I would have read this in one sitting. I kept wanting to find out if Shane was going to sow the wild oats that he wanted so much. The fun part is that I couldn't decide if I wanted him to succeed or not. I think I liked reading about his fantasies but didn't want to see him actually making them come true. I won't tell you if he experienced everything he wanted to because that's one of the things that I wanted to keep reading and find out for myself. I will tell you though that he had Aaron with him for the ride...
4.5 stars for an amazing casual-to-serious relationship!
This review has been cross-posted on The Novel Approach Reviews.
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via The Novel Approach Reviews in exchange for an honest review. *
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September 26, 2017
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
3.5 Stars.
Get a Grip is the 19th installment in the Bluewater Bay series. The series features standalone titles by various authors, which can be read out of order or as a standalone with little to no confusion. The town setting and the production of Wolf's Landing are the connecting factors in the series.
I'm a sucker for second-chance romance, especially dealing with divorce or widowed characters. I enjoy the more mature approach to relationships and romance, expecting an emotionally mature character. Toss in kids, some pets, and a firefighter and I'm sold on the story. (I was a volunteer in a department for fifteen years, so I'm always drawn to stories featuring that aspect of my former life).
In his mid-thirties, Shane is a divorced (2 times) father of three, and he's a bisexual man ready to get back into the dating scene now that his kids are getting older. Aaron's a volunteer firefighter his mid-forties, but he owns a garage. Mother nature intervenes, drawing the two men together.
Get a Grip was sweet and fluffy, an easy read that was a great escape. So why not give out 4 or 5 stars?
With this being a second-chance (or more) romance, involving a man in his mid-30s and one in his mid-40s, with 3 children involved, I expected more maturity from life experience. Their interactions, actions and reactions, and speech patterns, were suited more for late teenagers or young men in their early twenties.
My tastes run more toward building tension, making the characters work for the climax, but they are instantly infatuated with one another, giving into lust quickly after meeting. While Witt delivers the steam, to me, it just felt like it was 'the end' before it began, leaving little room for character development.
The epilogue comes out of nowhere and feels slightly rushed, but it left me with a sense of the warm and fuzzies.
I'm a fan of the series, and look forward to more. However, it's hit or miss with me when it comes to L.A. Witt. I either gush fangirl praise or find the book middle of the road. That doesn't mean it wasn't worthy as a novel, or that I didn't enjoy it, just that it didn't resonate with me, not leaving a lasting impression.
3.5 Stars.
Get a Grip is the 19th installment in the Bluewater Bay series. The series features standalone titles by various authors, which can be read out of order or as a standalone with little to no confusion. The town setting and the production of Wolf's Landing are the connecting factors in the series.
I'm a sucker for second-chance romance, especially dealing with divorce or widowed characters. I enjoy the more mature approach to relationships and romance, expecting an emotionally mature character. Toss in kids, some pets, and a firefighter and I'm sold on the story. (I was a volunteer in a department for fifteen years, so I'm always drawn to stories featuring that aspect of my former life).
In his mid-thirties, Shane is a divorced (2 times) father of three, and he's a bisexual man ready to get back into the dating scene now that his kids are getting older. Aaron's a volunteer firefighter his mid-forties, but he owns a garage. Mother nature intervenes, drawing the two men together.
Get a Grip was sweet and fluffy, an easy read that was a great escape. So why not give out 4 or 5 stars?
With this being a second-chance (or more) romance, involving a man in his mid-30s and one in his mid-40s, with 3 children involved, I expected more maturity from life experience. Their interactions, actions and reactions, and speech patterns, were suited more for late teenagers or young men in their early twenties.
My tastes run more toward building tension, making the characters work for the climax, but they are instantly infatuated with one another, giving into lust quickly after meeting. While Witt delivers the steam, to me, it just felt like it was 'the end' before it began, leaving little room for character development.
The epilogue comes out of nowhere and feels slightly rushed, but it left me with a sense of the warm and fuzzies.
I'm a fan of the series, and look forward to more. However, it's hit or miss with me when it comes to L.A. Witt. I either gush fangirl praise or find the book middle of the road. That doesn't mean it wasn't worthy as a novel, or that I didn't enjoy it, just that it didn't resonate with me, not leaving a lasting impression.
August 27, 2017
Get a Grip (Bluewater Bay #19) by L.A. Witt
3 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This is a sweet story where Shane is trying to figure out how to juggle being at work and co-parenting his three kids with his ex-husband, Leo. When a bad storm hits the town where Shane lives and works, he has no choice but to head towards the destructing to try and save the equipment.
Aaron is a firefighter who loves his job, but it's a poor substitute to what he used to do - Smoke jumper. Despite being unable to jump any more, he still loves saving people and being a firefighter.
He isn't in to family time and doesn't do long term relationships, but he's willing to take the hot guy to bed who he met at the job.
Aaron and Shane have a somewhat youthful relationship. Shane is secretive with his kids and Aaron isn't sure this is a relationship he wants. Leo is Shane's ex-husband and truly wants Shane to find someone to love. It's a good story where family comes together to support each other and new relationships take off, but overall, it lacked chemistry and an organic development of the relationship.
Despite it being a sweet story where there is a happy ending, I thought that there needed to be more "grownup" dialogue between the two main characters - it just had YA feeling to it.
3 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This is a sweet story where Shane is trying to figure out how to juggle being at work and co-parenting his three kids with his ex-husband, Leo. When a bad storm hits the town where Shane lives and works, he has no choice but to head towards the destructing to try and save the equipment.
Aaron is a firefighter who loves his job, but it's a poor substitute to what he used to do - Smoke jumper. Despite being unable to jump any more, he still loves saving people and being a firefighter.
He isn't in to family time and doesn't do long term relationships, but he's willing to take the hot guy to bed who he met at the job.
Aaron and Shane have a somewhat youthful relationship. Shane is secretive with his kids and Aaron isn't sure this is a relationship he wants. Leo is Shane's ex-husband and truly wants Shane to find someone to love. It's a good story where family comes together to support each other and new relationships take off, but overall, it lacked chemistry and an organic development of the relationship.
Despite it being a sweet story where there is a happy ending, I thought that there needed to be more "grownup" dialogue between the two main characters - it just had YA feeling to it.
October 1, 2017
3.5 stars - I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Firefighter Aaron and Wolf’s Landing Grip Shane meet when a storm causes damage to Shane’s set. The attraction is immediate but life gets in the way of a relationship between these two.
I’m slightly conflicted about this one. I like that it is a story about grown ups with complicated lives. These guys both have demanding jobs and their schedules don’t always coordinate. Shane has kids and ex partners. As a reader of a similar age, this is a refreshingly realistic story.
However. I tend to read romance as an escape from the adult responsibilities in my own life. Arranging dates around ex husbands and babysitters isn’t terribly sexy. Kids and work commitments preventing sex? Also not sexy - and far too realistic. I’m also guessing that anyone who has ever been a single parent will cringe with sympathy at Shane’s attempts at online dating.
For older guys with life experience, these two are both still pretty terrible at relationships. Their communication skills are pretty awful and they are both far too old for the ‘no commitment’ nonsense.
This isn’t one of my favourite LA Witt books. It was a sweet story and a quick read but I felt it lacked chemistry, passion and romantic tension.
Firefighter Aaron and Wolf’s Landing Grip Shane meet when a storm causes damage to Shane’s set. The attraction is immediate but life gets in the way of a relationship between these two.
I’m slightly conflicted about this one. I like that it is a story about grown ups with complicated lives. These guys both have demanding jobs and their schedules don’t always coordinate. Shane has kids and ex partners. As a reader of a similar age, this is a refreshingly realistic story.
However. I tend to read romance as an escape from the adult responsibilities in my own life. Arranging dates around ex husbands and babysitters isn’t terribly sexy. Kids and work commitments preventing sex? Also not sexy - and far too realistic. I’m also guessing that anyone who has ever been a single parent will cringe with sympathy at Shane’s attempts at online dating.
For older guys with life experience, these two are both still pretty terrible at relationships. Their communication skills are pretty awful and they are both far too old for the ‘no commitment’ nonsense.
This isn’t one of my favourite LA Witt books. It was a sweet story and a quick read but I felt it lacked chemistry, passion and romantic tension.
September 30, 2017
2.5-3 Stars
When I requested this book I was looking for another L.A. Witt book I could fall in love with. I seem to be having a hard time with her books lately. I just can't seem to connect with them. What He Left Behind and Just Drive so far have been the 2 that I really enjoyed.
I'll just dive right into my review.. This was an ok read. It started off slow for me. It took a little while for it to grab my attention. But it seemed to come in waves. It would pick up and then slow down....pick up again then slow down. That was hard for me.
Shane & Aaron had some serious chemistry. The sex between them was pretty hot. But what killed it for me was Shane wanting to relive his twenties again. He wanted to to do all the things he didn't get to do because he became a dad at a young age.
The whole trying to be wild again and wanting to do a threesome really wasn't doing it for me. Then we have the whole Shane running from Aaron thing. I was hoping for them to be a little more mature than they were.
I don't think this was the book to get me out of my L.A. Witt book funk. I really wasn't feeling this book. But, I will still stick it our with her books. I know there is one out there that I will fall in love with!
*ARC provider by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley*
When I requested this book I was looking for another L.A. Witt book I could fall in love with. I seem to be having a hard time with her books lately. I just can't seem to connect with them. What He Left Behind and Just Drive so far have been the 2 that I really enjoyed.
I'll just dive right into my review.. This was an ok read. It started off slow for me. It took a little while for it to grab my attention. But it seemed to come in waves. It would pick up and then slow down....pick up again then slow down. That was hard for me.
Shane & Aaron had some serious chemistry. The sex between them was pretty hot. But what killed it for me was Shane wanting to relive his twenties again. He wanted to to do all the things he didn't get to do because he became a dad at a young age.
The whole trying to be wild again and wanting to do a threesome really wasn't doing it for me. Then we have the whole Shane running from Aaron thing. I was hoping for them to be a little more mature than they were.
I don't think this was the book to get me out of my L.A. Witt book funk. I really wasn't feeling this book. But, I will still stick it our with her books. I know there is one out there that I will fall in love with!
*ARC provider by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley*
August 31, 2017
I found this enjoyable, though I wish we actually got to see more of the "grip" part of the title. I don't know a whole lot about what goes on behind scenes in Hollywood, and I was kinda hoping we'd get a bit more of a look here. The story was more focused on the guys, though, so I guess I will have to keep going on is woeful ignorance. The romance was good, though, so it isn't an entire loss. These two certainly had some heat between them. I was a little sad that .
Not the best of the series, not the worst. Mostly just a good story.
3.5 stars
Not the best of the series, not the worst. Mostly just a good story.
3.5 stars
July 24, 2017
3.5 stars
August 15, 2017
~ 4.5 Stars ~
A hook up that became the real deal. We’ve seen this trope many times, but when it’s done right it’s one of my favorite themes. In this book, it’s absolutely done right! There is no rush. Their deal is clear and at first it works just fine. When feelings come out to play, it happens in stages and not unexpectedly and out of the blue.
In the beginning, Shane was a bit all over the place, not knowing what he wanted and unable to decide how he felt about a casual arrangement. He changed his mind all the time, even in the course of a single dialogue, and I struggled to follow his thought process. I guess it was a understandable, as he found himself with a bit of freedom and the ability to be a little wild for the first time in his life.
Aaron, even though he was seeking adrenaline and excitement, read as the more grounded of the two. He knew what he wanted and was able to communicate it to Shane. He was content with how his life had turned out, and was happy with his choices.
I enjoyed reading this book, and I liked the MCs as well as the side characters. I liked that Shane’s kids had a role in the story, and weren’t just names thrown around. Shane spent time with them on page, and interacted with them. I would have liked more scenes with them and Aaron in the same room, though. The fact that Shane was able to be friends with his exes made me like him even more. Leo was an amazing person, from what little we got to see of him. I will read his story in a heartbeat if it’s ever told. I liked his relationship with the kids and the fact that he wanted and managed to remain in their lives after the divorce from Shane. As a bonus, this book has a huge, adorable boxer-mix named Jack, who loves to cuddle and has a whip for a tail. It also has three cats, but Jack’s presence overshadowed all other pets. What can I say? I’m a dog person, so he stole the show whenever he was in a scene.
At times, I had trouble remembering who was supposed to narrate the chapter I was reading. The story is told in the first person, and the narrator changes in every chapter. Their voices were pretty similar, so I often had to turn back and reread dialogue in order to understand who was saying what. It bothered me a bit and frustrated me because I was pulled out of the story, but in the end, it didn’t do much damage to the story. What I didn’t like was the ending. It felt rushed and like everything was neatly tied with a big red bow in order for the characters to find their HEA. I wanted to see more of them as a committed couple trying to merge their lives together. With kids, pets, friends, jobs and exes in the mix, it would have been an interesting process to witness. I also wanted to see Aaron trying to win the trust and acceptance of Shane’s kids instead of just getting it.
If I could have, I would have read this in one sitting. I kept wanting to find out if Shane was going to sow the wild oats that he wanted to so much. The fun part is that I couldn’t decide if I wanted him to succeed or not. I think I liked reading about his fantasies, but didn’t want to see him actually making them come true. I won’t tell you if he experienced everything he wanted to, because that’s one of the things that I wanted to keep reading and find out for myself. I will tell you, though, that he had Aaron with him for the ride…
Reviewed by Ky for The Novel Approach
A hook up that became the real deal. We’ve seen this trope many times, but when it’s done right it’s one of my favorite themes. In this book, it’s absolutely done right! There is no rush. Their deal is clear and at first it works just fine. When feelings come out to play, it happens in stages and not unexpectedly and out of the blue.
In the beginning, Shane was a bit all over the place, not knowing what he wanted and unable to decide how he felt about a casual arrangement. He changed his mind all the time, even in the course of a single dialogue, and I struggled to follow his thought process. I guess it was a understandable, as he found himself with a bit of freedom and the ability to be a little wild for the first time in his life.
Aaron, even though he was seeking adrenaline and excitement, read as the more grounded of the two. He knew what he wanted and was able to communicate it to Shane. He was content with how his life had turned out, and was happy with his choices.
I enjoyed reading this book, and I liked the MCs as well as the side characters. I liked that Shane’s kids had a role in the story, and weren’t just names thrown around. Shane spent time with them on page, and interacted with them. I would have liked more scenes with them and Aaron in the same room, though. The fact that Shane was able to be friends with his exes made me like him even more. Leo was an amazing person, from what little we got to see of him. I will read his story in a heartbeat if it’s ever told. I liked his relationship with the kids and the fact that he wanted and managed to remain in their lives after the divorce from Shane. As a bonus, this book has a huge, adorable boxer-mix named Jack, who loves to cuddle and has a whip for a tail. It also has three cats, but Jack’s presence overshadowed all other pets. What can I say? I’m a dog person, so he stole the show whenever he was in a scene.
At times, I had trouble remembering who was supposed to narrate the chapter I was reading. The story is told in the first person, and the narrator changes in every chapter. Their voices were pretty similar, so I often had to turn back and reread dialogue in order to understand who was saying what. It bothered me a bit and frustrated me because I was pulled out of the story, but in the end, it didn’t do much damage to the story. What I didn’t like was the ending. It felt rushed and like everything was neatly tied with a big red bow in order for the characters to find their HEA. I wanted to see more of them as a committed couple trying to merge their lives together. With kids, pets, friends, jobs and exes in the mix, it would have been an interesting process to witness. I also wanted to see Aaron trying to win the trust and acceptance of Shane’s kids instead of just getting it.
If I could have, I would have read this in one sitting. I kept wanting to find out if Shane was going to sow the wild oats that he wanted to so much. The fun part is that I couldn’t decide if I wanted him to succeed or not. I think I liked reading about his fantasies, but didn’t want to see him actually making them come true. I won’t tell you if he experienced everything he wanted to, because that’s one of the things that I wanted to keep reading and find out for myself. I will tell you, though, that he had Aaron with him for the ride…
Reviewed by Ky for The Novel Approach
September 23, 2017
When a storm drops a tree through a soundstage at the Wolf’s Landing TV show site, it’s grip Shane Andrews who has to check for damages once the scene is cleared for safety by local volunteer firefighters. He nearly swallows his tongue when he first spots firefighter Aaron Tucker. In his mid-forties, he’s got the necessary touch of gray to make him a borderline silver fox, but it’s the rest of his package that makes Shane’s mouth water. And when Shane takes that as a signal that it’s time to have some fun in his life, he’s shocked when it’s Aaron who first responds to his profile on Grindr.
Twice divorced—once from a woman and most recently from a man, Shane has three children and their welfare has always come first. But he’s determined to live a little for himself now that he’s made his decision. His daughter is old enough to babysit and his ex-husband is happy to take the kids anytime he needs help, so why not?
By the second “date” with Aaron, he commits a faux pas when he tells Aaron he doesn’t think he can do a friends-with-benefits, no-strings-attached relationship, but when Aaron states unequivocally that he will only do hookups, Shane reconsiders and starts to enjoy his flings with the sexy man. But then after several months, when Aaron decides he wants more, Shane is ill-prepared to handle the thought of having a man get involved with his family and possibly disappoint the kids again. Who knows what will happen with these two stubborn men? The fun is in reading this story!
I am really enjoying the recent influx of stories involving men over forty, second chances at love, silver foxes, and more, and this was no exception. I picked it up because it was Bluewater Bay—a series I’m totally enjoying—and I was no more than one chapter in when I realized I was reading LA Witt. Yes, I didn’t check first, and yes, her style is unique and a fan like me an easily identify it. And yes, it’s hot and heavy sex, two men who can’t get enough of each other, and finally, the long-awaited emotional attachment when they realize it’s not just sex anymore. So in a way, it follows a formula this author has been highly successful pulling off. But honestly? I don’t care. LA Witt does it best and came through with this one. It’s hot and steamy, older guys who take their time and fall in love. What’s not to like? I highly recommend this one to lovers of MM romance, Bluewater Bay, LA Witt, older MCs, men with pets, men with children, firemen, etc. I could go on and on. Suffice it to say, it’s a winner.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
Twice divorced—once from a woman and most recently from a man, Shane has three children and their welfare has always come first. But he’s determined to live a little for himself now that he’s made his decision. His daughter is old enough to babysit and his ex-husband is happy to take the kids anytime he needs help, so why not?
By the second “date” with Aaron, he commits a faux pas when he tells Aaron he doesn’t think he can do a friends-with-benefits, no-strings-attached relationship, but when Aaron states unequivocally that he will only do hookups, Shane reconsiders and starts to enjoy his flings with the sexy man. But then after several months, when Aaron decides he wants more, Shane is ill-prepared to handle the thought of having a man get involved with his family and possibly disappoint the kids again. Who knows what will happen with these two stubborn men? The fun is in reading this story!
I am really enjoying the recent influx of stories involving men over forty, second chances at love, silver foxes, and more, and this was no exception. I picked it up because it was Bluewater Bay—a series I’m totally enjoying—and I was no more than one chapter in when I realized I was reading LA Witt. Yes, I didn’t check first, and yes, her style is unique and a fan like me an easily identify it. And yes, it’s hot and heavy sex, two men who can’t get enough of each other, and finally, the long-awaited emotional attachment when they realize it’s not just sex anymore. So in a way, it follows a formula this author has been highly successful pulling off. But honestly? I don’t care. LA Witt does it best and came through with this one. It’s hot and steamy, older guys who take their time and fall in love. What’s not to like? I highly recommend this one to lovers of MM romance, Bluewater Bay, LA Witt, older MCs, men with pets, men with children, firemen, etc. I could go on and on. Suffice it to say, it’s a winner.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
April 14, 2024
This was your standard formulaic contemporary. The characters were nice and fairly believable. The kids were age appropriate although a little too well-adjusted for all that change in their lives. The story was a lot less exciting than I expected with a firefighter as an MC. I didn’t expect a lot of danger or high-octane scenes in this genre but there was only one short little rescue scene where all the victims were perfectly fine.
I don’t really have a lot to say about the book. It was fine. There were just a couple of things I really liked that I’ll point out:
It was so awesome that there was a scene about a Black guy getting pulled over for having three white kids in his car. They mentioned that both he and the kids had letters with them saying it was okay and the trooper still called the white father to make sure it was okay. And the sad thing is, this is only fiction in that it happened in a novel. As we all now know, this kind of thing happens all the time in real life.
I totally got the thing about the dog’s tail. I have a beagle mix and I swear I’ve gotten bruises from her wagging tail. The other dogs get thwacked in the face but don’t leave, just blink with each hit. What’s up with that? She has even wiggled and wagged so hard she hit her own face and not stopped. Maybe humans aren’t as resistant to dog tail injuries.
I always love when books take place in the Pacific Northwest, especially Washington and Seattle. They did a pretty good job here describing the area. (I’ll even let it pass that both said they loved Seattle but couldn’t live there because it’s too big. I get that. )
I only have one real complaint and that is that the rain shadow over the Olympic Peninsula where this takes place is tiny. Most of the region is a rain forest! Where do they think all that moss mentioned in the story comes from? Not scalding dry desert heat that’s for sure. There is no reason to film way out there except for the mountains and ocean beaches, non of which are in the rain shadow. So being irritated that they get a storm that dumps rain like in Seattle is silly. For the record, there are plenty of cities that get more rain annually than Seattle including Tampa, Memphis, and Houston. It’s just overcast here more.
I don’t really have a lot to say about the book. It was fine. There were just a couple of things I really liked that I’ll point out:
It was so awesome that there was a scene about a Black guy getting pulled over for having three white kids in his car. They mentioned that both he and the kids had letters with them saying it was okay and the trooper still called the white father to make sure it was okay. And the sad thing is, this is only fiction in that it happened in a novel. As we all now know, this kind of thing happens all the time in real life.
I totally got the thing about the dog’s tail. I have a beagle mix and I swear I’ve gotten bruises from her wagging tail. The other dogs get thwacked in the face but don’t leave, just blink with each hit. What’s up with that? She has even wiggled and wagged so hard she hit her own face and not stopped. Maybe humans aren’t as resistant to dog tail injuries.
I always love when books take place in the Pacific Northwest, especially Washington and Seattle. They did a pretty good job here describing the area. (I’ll even let it pass that both said they loved Seattle but couldn’t live there because it’s too big. I get that. )
I only have one real complaint and that is that the rain shadow over the Olympic Peninsula where this takes place is tiny. Most of the region is a rain forest! Where do they think all that moss mentioned in the story comes from? Not scalding dry desert heat that’s for sure. There is no reason to film way out there except for the mountains and ocean beaches, non of which are in the rain shadow. So being irritated that they get a storm that dumps rain like in Seattle is silly. For the record, there are plenty of cities that get more rain annually than Seattle including Tampa, Memphis, and Houston. It’s just overcast here more.
August 9, 2017
This is a book in the Bluewater Bay Universe, but enjoyable as a standalone.
Shane is a twice-divorced bisexual father of three kids. He’s tight with his previous ex, Leo, who still acts as stepfather to the kids, though non of them are his blood. (COOL GUY!!) Shane’s been celibate for over a year when he meets Aaron on the Wolf’s Landing set following a big storm that sent a tree crashing into the production studio. Aaron’s an experienced firefighter who volunteers on Bluewater Bay’s crew.
He’s also forty-six, and down for anything.
Aaron and Shane hook up like a wildfire devours a countryside–their chemistry is white hot. But, Shane’s not good at casual sex, and Aaron’s not really interested in a commitment. Or so they think. I liked the way these guys let themselves simply be, for a while. Aaron’s promising no-strings sexytimes fun, what Shane totally missed out on becoming a father so young in life. They have grand plans to be super adventurous, and those fall through. The upside is, they still have each other, and they like it that way.
Both Aaron and Shane try to talk themselves out of taking this relationship into the serious side, but neither of them can stop the progression they are making. There’s room for mistakes, and making up for the missteps. I loved watching it all unfold, and well, there are a good number os yummy sexytimes, so…bonus points! The end is sweet and tender. I appreciated Aaron’s hurt, and Shane’s willingness to make it right. Brought me in mind of “You had me at hello” and that was lovely.
I also liked that these guys are a little older, and have some struggles acting like kids on the prowl. They are good with the self-deprecation on that score. It’s a yummy-sexy-sweet read and I’d recommend it. I received a review copy via NetGalley.
Shane is a twice-divorced bisexual father of three kids. He’s tight with his previous ex, Leo, who still acts as stepfather to the kids, though non of them are his blood. (COOL GUY!!) Shane’s been celibate for over a year when he meets Aaron on the Wolf’s Landing set following a big storm that sent a tree crashing into the production studio. Aaron’s an experienced firefighter who volunteers on Bluewater Bay’s crew.
He’s also forty-six, and down for anything.
Aaron and Shane hook up like a wildfire devours a countryside–their chemistry is white hot. But, Shane’s not good at casual sex, and Aaron’s not really interested in a commitment. Or so they think. I liked the way these guys let themselves simply be, for a while. Aaron’s promising no-strings sexytimes fun, what Shane totally missed out on becoming a father so young in life. They have grand plans to be super adventurous, and those fall through. The upside is, they still have each other, and they like it that way.
Both Aaron and Shane try to talk themselves out of taking this relationship into the serious side, but neither of them can stop the progression they are making. There’s room for mistakes, and making up for the missteps. I loved watching it all unfold, and well, there are a good number os yummy sexytimes, so…bonus points! The end is sweet and tender. I appreciated Aaron’s hurt, and Shane’s willingness to make it right. Brought me in mind of “You had me at hello” and that was lovely.
I also liked that these guys are a little older, and have some struggles acting like kids on the prowl. They are good with the self-deprecation on that score. It’s a yummy-sexy-sweet read and I’d recommend it. I received a review copy via NetGalley.
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