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Rose Falls #2
My Winter Family
He's a family man. I'm a 32-year-old player.
Why the hell does he want me?
Emmett:
At my friend's wedding, I had one rule: I would not hook up with any of the wedding guests.
But then I met Ryan, and I broke that rule in minutes.
It's not my fault he was hot, flirty, and practically begged me to ravish him. Our connection was instant. I don't do relationships, though--and when I found out Ryan was keeping a huge secret from me, I vowed to never see him again.
But this town is small. Before long, Ryan was visiting the coffee shop I work in every day. Why couldn't I stop thinking about him, stop remembering how his lips felt on me? And in the chill of winter, being with him and his 6-month-old daughter feels like home. It's scary. And it's so not me. But I can't help but feel like I've found a family.
Ryan:
I moved to the small town of Rose Falls to give my baby girl the life I never had. I had no plans to start dating right away, but during my first few weeks in town, Emmett fell into my lap--in every sense of the phrase.
Emmett was exciting, adventurous, and hot --he made me feel alive again. But he hates commitment. He hates marriage. And he certainly isn't going to settle down.
But my heart soars when I see him get along so well with my baby, cook dinner, and curl up on my couch on snowy December nights. I shouldn't get my hopes up with Emmett. But I love how he feels wrapped in my arms, and I can't help but want him to be a part of my family.
-----
My Winter Family is a 76,000-word gay romance about opening your heart up to love, even when you thought it had frozen over. It features a baby named Anna who loves her spaceship-print onesie. It's full of wintertime snow flurries, and guys who get hot and steamy by the fire... and also in a supply closet. It's the second book set in the small, quirky town of Rose Falls, but can absolutely be read as a standalone novel.
Why the hell does he want me?
Emmett:
At my friend's wedding, I had one rule: I would not hook up with any of the wedding guests.
But then I met Ryan, and I broke that rule in minutes.
It's not my fault he was hot, flirty, and practically begged me to ravish him. Our connection was instant. I don't do relationships, though--and when I found out Ryan was keeping a huge secret from me, I vowed to never see him again.
But this town is small. Before long, Ryan was visiting the coffee shop I work in every day. Why couldn't I stop thinking about him, stop remembering how his lips felt on me? And in the chill of winter, being with him and his 6-month-old daughter feels like home. It's scary. And it's so not me. But I can't help but feel like I've found a family.
Ryan:
I moved to the small town of Rose Falls to give my baby girl the life I never had. I had no plans to start dating right away, but during my first few weeks in town, Emmett fell into my lap--in every sense of the phrase.
Emmett was exciting, adventurous, and hot --he made me feel alive again. But he hates commitment. He hates marriage. And he certainly isn't going to settle down.
But my heart soars when I see him get along so well with my baby, cook dinner, and curl up on my couch on snowy December nights. I shouldn't get my hopes up with Emmett. But I love how he feels wrapped in my arms, and I can't help but want him to be a part of my family.
-----
My Winter Family is a 76,000-word gay romance about opening your heart up to love, even when you thought it had frozen over. It features a baby named Anna who loves her spaceship-print onesie. It's full of wintertime snow flurries, and guys who get hot and steamy by the fire... and also in a supply closet. It's the second book set in the small, quirky town of Rose Falls, but can absolutely be read as a standalone novel.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 4, 2017
414 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
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November 19, 2024
My Winter Family is book two in the Rose Falls series by Raleigh Ruebins. This story takes place in the beautiful small town of Rose Falls during the winter time. There is a bit of Christmas but it’s not a big focal point.
Emmett Crawford is thirty two years old. He has lived in Rose Falls all of his life. He is the older brother of Devin from the first book. Emmett is his own worst enemy. He has anxiety and doubts himself constantly, always afraid to take a risk, afraid of failing, of getting hurt. Because of this, he is completely anti-commitment! He tells himself he’s happier alone so he won’t get hurt. He hooks up constantly but those encounters have been making him feel emptier lately. He is attending a wedding and has vowed that there will be no hook-ups at the wedding. But then he met Ryan and all that flew out the window.
Ryan Bretton is thirty six years old. He has an adorable six month old daughter, Anna. Ryan has moved from New York City to Rose Falls to give his daughter a better life, a safer life. He’s only been in town a few weeks and was invited to the wedding because he knew the groom. Never in his wildest dream did he think the day would turn out the way it did. But as soon as he met Emmett, he couldn’t resist him.
“The second he’d gotten his hands on me, it was as if he knew me, as if he’d touched me a thousand times before.”
Emmett works as a barista in a local coffee shop so it doesn’t take Ryan long to look him up. He knows Emmett doesn’t want a relationship but he just can’t seem to stay away. Emmett definitely does not want more. But there is something about Ryan. And his daughter is adorable. He is convinced, though, that someone like him could never be enough for someone like Ryan.
Emmett really did sabotage himself at every turn. He had no confidence in himself at all. But there was no denying that there was something between them. But it seems like the harder Ryan tries to convince Emmett to trust in them, the more it pushes him away.
This was a sweet story of finally allowing yourself the happiness you never thought you’d experience. Emmett had so many qualities but he never allowed himself to admit it. To see that he had so much to offer. And who can resist a single dad with an adorable baby? This is a feel good story that can be read any time of the year but is definitely an enjoyable holiday read as well. You can also enjoy it without reading the first book. The next book is Andy’s from the Mini Mart called Champagne Kiss.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Emmett Crawford is thirty two years old. He has lived in Rose Falls all of his life. He is the older brother of Devin from the first book. Emmett is his own worst enemy. He has anxiety and doubts himself constantly, always afraid to take a risk, afraid of failing, of getting hurt. Because of this, he is completely anti-commitment! He tells himself he’s happier alone so he won’t get hurt. He hooks up constantly but those encounters have been making him feel emptier lately. He is attending a wedding and has vowed that there will be no hook-ups at the wedding. But then he met Ryan and all that flew out the window.
Ryan Bretton is thirty six years old. He has an adorable six month old daughter, Anna. Ryan has moved from New York City to Rose Falls to give his daughter a better life, a safer life. He’s only been in town a few weeks and was invited to the wedding because he knew the groom. Never in his wildest dream did he think the day would turn out the way it did. But as soon as he met Emmett, he couldn’t resist him.
“The second he’d gotten his hands on me, it was as if he knew me, as if he’d touched me a thousand times before.”
Emmett works as a barista in a local coffee shop so it doesn’t take Ryan long to look him up. He knows Emmett doesn’t want a relationship but he just can’t seem to stay away. Emmett definitely does not want more. But there is something about Ryan. And his daughter is adorable. He is convinced, though, that someone like him could never be enough for someone like Ryan.
Emmett really did sabotage himself at every turn. He had no confidence in himself at all. But there was no denying that there was something between them. But it seems like the harder Ryan tries to convince Emmett to trust in them, the more it pushes him away.
This was a sweet story of finally allowing yourself the happiness you never thought you’d experience. Emmett had so many qualities but he never allowed himself to admit it. To see that he had so much to offer. And who can resist a single dad with an adorable baby? This is a feel good story that can be read any time of the year but is definitely an enjoyable holiday read as well. You can also enjoy it without reading the first book. The next book is Andy’s from the Mini Mart called Champagne Kiss.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
December 23, 2017
Emmett, Emmett, Emmett... He really annoyed me at first... but once I read enough to get past his multiple walls and saw the real him... how could anyone not love him. Kudos to the author in creating an incredilbly complex and real character. Not that Ryan is chopped liver cuz he is pretty awesome himself. After all only a truly amazing caring guy would be able to crack the nut that was Emmett. I loved that the author took her time with this story, allowing the characters and their relationship to progress at their own pace and in their own way. I think the best stories are written sometimes when an author does this. It worked beautifully with this book. It felt very real and believable. I love the fact that Emmett seeking help for his anxiety was included in this story. Mental health issue are more common than many people want to admit. Being someone diagnosed as Bipolar 2 in 2003 at the age of 38 who grew up with a mother who was not diagnosed till she was in her 60's. I totally support recognizing and talking about these issues openly and honestly. I commend the author for including that aspect in this book. This book was a great read, with plenty of feels and yes... more than a few tears!
December 9, 2017
This is an easy, mostly angst-free read set in the town of Rose Falls
Emmett is a huge martyr with anxiety issues. His background is never explored in any depth, so I had a hard time mustering sympathy for his woe-is-me attitude.
Ryan is basically perfect, or so we're told. Then there's one scene where Ryan is super rude to Emmett and kicks him out of his house. He apologizes later, but I couldn't forget it.
Kudos for the sexy times, cute baby, Stella (Ryan's bestie and baby mama), and sweet but not sugary ending.
My Winter Family can be read as a standalone. MCs from the previous book are barely mentioned.
Emmett is a huge martyr with anxiety issues. His background is never explored in any depth, so I had a hard time mustering sympathy for his woe-is-me attitude.
Ryan is basically perfect, or so we're told. Then there's one scene where Ryan is super rude to Emmett and kicks him out of his house. He apologizes later, but I couldn't forget it.
Kudos for the sexy times, cute baby, Stella (Ryan's bestie and baby mama), and sweet but not sugary ending.
My Winter Family can be read as a standalone. MCs from the previous book are barely mentioned.
December 5, 2017
When I first saw this on my KU list, I wasn't expecting much, I admit. I figured it would be just like so many other offerings on there- too sweet, shallow, with questionable editing. But I'm so happy to admit that I was wrong!
I truly enjoyed this! It's one of the first books that's truly hit all my romantic romancey buttons, without being over the top sugary sweet. Ryan was just the nicest guy ever, but never felt too good to be true. He had his own issues, with being a single dad, in a new town, trying to balance family and work and fun. Emmett had some major self esteem issues, but really, he was stuck in a rut of his own making. He decided he wouldn't get better, so he told himself he didn't deserve better.
I just read most of this book with a smile on my face. I loved Ryan and Emmett's moments together, and Anna was cute, without taking over at any point.
I suppose if I had one nitpicky thing, it was that we are told that Emmett was bisexual, but there was never anything to really show that, other than saying he was. He never mentioned relationships with women, or even hookups, really, other than the bride at the start. But this was a minor thing, and it didn't really bother me at all.
I know one thing, and that I will definitely be checking out more by this author! If you love a really good love story, with enough steamy scenes to keep it interesting, but not enough that has you going "enough already!", then check this one out!
I truly enjoyed this! It's one of the first books that's truly hit all my romantic romancey buttons, without being over the top sugary sweet. Ryan was just the nicest guy ever, but never felt too good to be true. He had his own issues, with being a single dad, in a new town, trying to balance family and work and fun. Emmett had some major self esteem issues, but really, he was stuck in a rut of his own making. He decided he wouldn't get better, so he told himself he didn't deserve better.
I just read most of this book with a smile on my face. I loved Ryan and Emmett's moments together, and Anna was cute, without taking over at any point.
I suppose if I had one nitpicky thing, it was that we are told that Emmett was bisexual, but there was never anything to really show that, other than saying he was. He never mentioned relationships with women, or even hookups, really, other than the bride at the start. But this was a minor thing, and it didn't really bother me at all.
I know one thing, and that I will definitely be checking out more by this author! If you love a really good love story, with enough steamy scenes to keep it interesting, but not enough that has you going "enough already!", then check this one out!
January 6, 2019
Emmett and Ryan
What a lovely couple. They both thought they were not good for each other.
Ryan a single Dad, well educated and looking for companion. while Emmett only believes in hook ups, afraid of commitments and cannot make a decision on where is life is headed.
They meet at a wedding reception and had a hookup.
There was a misunderstanding and Ryan needed to fix.
That lead to a friendship which lead to a connection to HEA.
Of course it was not as smooth, but getting there was worth the read.
What a lovely couple. They both thought they were not good for each other.
Ryan a single Dad, well educated and looking for companion. while Emmett only believes in hook ups, afraid of commitments and cannot make a decision on where is life is headed.
They meet at a wedding reception and had a hookup.
There was a misunderstanding and Ryan needed to fix.
That lead to a friendship which lead to a connection to HEA.
Of course it was not as smooth, but getting there was worth the read.
December 17, 2017
So non-impressed that I read it like a week ago and I forgot about it.
December 24, 2017
Liked this one better than the first. I enjoyed the story and liked both MCs.
I would have enjoyed it more if it had been a little steamier. Overall a good book.
I would have enjoyed it more if it had been a little steamier. Overall a good book.
February 20, 2018
Started strong, but by the half-way point it was all downhill from there. I think this could have been better if there was more backstory to the two main characters, especially Emmett. It was hard to sympathize with Emmett without fully understanding what he went through in his past to make him the spaz he was and to treat Ryan the way he did. I actually didn't like Emmett much and found him very frustrating.
December 28, 2017
Emmett is a hot mess. He was such a charming side character in the first book, quick with a clever line and cheeky humor. It was disappointing to find out what a neurotic mess he was in this book. Ryan was an unremarkably bland character as well. Together there was very little sparks flying. Sigh.
December 6, 2017
How comforting it was to read My Winter family.I was so ecstatic to get to read Emmett's story and all of his own energy and neurosis that was part of him seeped into my being and left me thoroughly and satisfyingly grinning at the end. I fell in love with Emmett and how he bakes and nervously eats sweets, how he has such a pure heart, even though he's been hurt in the past.Ryan was an absolutely dreamy man who is loving, doting, caring and when he let's go of some of his pension to be a workaholic, and allows himself the moment to really see Emmett , you really see the love he has. This new series from Raleigh Ruebins has me falling so hard and the beauty of Rose Falls in this magical time of year came shinning through. Commitment and generally anything relationship phobic Emmett, finds much more than a hook -up at a wedding when he catches the eye of Ryan, a well put together professional who is new in town with a baby. What transpires is a journey that finds Emmett questioning his worth to even allow himself anything that is good or that he is deserving of, and Ryan learning that there is far more than just work and structure that he cocoons himself in with his daughter. The initial encounter at the wedding was smoking hot, and apparently like us Emmett and Ryan wanted more, and Raleigh knows how to deliver giving some of the tenderest and sultry hot scenes that always leave me breathless. Having Emmett's brother Devin and his boyfriend Russ make appearance was a great treat , though I am gonna assume that this is set before Devin and Russ get engaged in Hawaii at the end of Finally Falling. If I'm wrong correct me. But I had so many heart tugging feels, and love how beautifully descriptive Rose Falls becomes, from the Promenade , to the Ice Rink to the description of the snowy streets, and the falls itself encased with the story of men falling in love is always the best comfort for me.
June 2, 2019
There was a cute baby on the cover, so I skipped the first book and started with the second of the Rose Falls series instead. It can be read as a stand-alone, so it didn't really matter.
My Winter Family is about Emmett, who actually wants to be a graphic designer but works as a barista and Ryan, who has a baby daughter that is actually half-Asian, but the baby in the cover doesn't look like that at all. It was described with dark hair... so well yeah... if Emmett did the cover of this book himself he didn't read his own story.
It's a sweet book, but it didn't sweep me off my feet. Seemingly perfect Ryan was actually kinda asshole-ish, when he had his work-related freakout and threw his guest out of the house...
And I really didn't get Emmett's anxiety issues. A bit more background exploration would have helped to understand him better, I guess. Well, I expected a bit more and I have to say I skipped some scenes, because it wasn't all too exciting. I started to get more interested in Emmett's boss Patrick, so I think I'm gonna try his book next.
My Winter Family is about Emmett, who actually wants to be a graphic designer but works as a barista and Ryan, who has a baby daughter that is actually half-Asian, but the baby in the cover doesn't look like that at all. It was described with dark hair... so well yeah... if Emmett did the cover of this book himself he didn't read his own story.
It's a sweet book, but it didn't sweep me off my feet. Seemingly perfect Ryan was actually kinda asshole-ish, when he had his work-related freakout and threw his guest out of the house...
And I really didn't get Emmett's anxiety issues. A bit more background exploration would have helped to understand him better, I guess. Well, I expected a bit more and I have to say I skipped some scenes, because it wasn't all too exciting. I started to get more interested in Emmett's boss Patrick, so I think I'm gonna try his book next.
December 6, 2017
I loved everything about this book! It is beautifully written, emotional and I could not put it down. Emmett does not want a relationship but when he meets Ryan at a wedding all bets are off. He does everything he can to fight his attraction to Ryan as he believes he is not good enough for him and his baby daughter. His anxiety and internal dialogue gets in the way of everything he wants, a career as a graphic artist and Ryan and Anna in his life. Ryan is a sweetheart who knows what he wants and is willing to fight to get it. He doesn't want to give up on Emmett but he will not force himself into his life. Emmett and Ryan are meant to be together and they can have it all if only Emmett can find the courage to jump in with both feet. All of the secondary characters made this story even better and I hope we get to see more of Patrick in the future. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
I was given an ARC to review by the author.
I was given an ARC to review by the author.
December 10, 2017
Ryan and Emmett were at such very different places in their lives at the beginning of this book that it was sort of hard to imagine how they would find any commonality. I loved how Ryan’s history could have crushed him, but he chose to find the good in his life despite his pain. Then he was able to help Emmett do the same by believing in him, and showing that his faith in Emmett was unconditional.
Emmett had truly isolated himself from everyone who cared for him; hiding how deeply hurt he had become from his friends and his family. That isolation just sent him deeper into his anxiety and fear, which exacerbated the isolation and just kept feeding itself in a downward spiral. But Ryan was able to break through that almost from the first - which frightened Emmett, but enticed him as well. When Emmett chose to trust Ryan and his love, it was beautiful.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Emmett had truly isolated himself from everyone who cared for him; hiding how deeply hurt he had become from his friends and his family. That isolation just sent him deeper into his anxiety and fear, which exacerbated the isolation and just kept feeding itself in a downward spiral. But Ryan was able to break through that almost from the first - which frightened Emmett, but enticed him as well. When Emmett chose to trust Ryan and his love, it was beautiful.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
December 2, 2017
* I received an ARC copy in exchange for a honest review *
I think it might be my favourite Raleigh Ruebins' book so far.
This is a perfect winter story to warm You up.
It is lovely, sweet and (more or less) believable .
After just two days with Emmet and Ryan I am totally head over heels in love with them. And Anna. They are one hell of a cute little family . They surely are not perfect, with Emmet's anxiety, Ryan's workaholism and Anna's tendency to cry in the worst moments ever but together they have something special.
This story is heart-warming and it made me smile all the time (even during the "sad" times). It is well written, funny (Phineas Crumblebottom!!!) , sexy (the shower scene <3) and adorable . What made me like it even more are other characters - Stella, Patrick and especially Andy. I really, really need to know Andy's story :)
I think it might be my favourite Raleigh Ruebins' book so far.
This is a perfect winter story to warm You up.
It is lovely, sweet and (more or less) believable .
After just two days with Emmet and Ryan I am totally head over heels in love with them. And Anna. They are one hell of a cute little family . They surely are not perfect, with Emmet's anxiety, Ryan's workaholism and Anna's tendency to cry in the worst moments ever but together they have something special.
This story is heart-warming and it made me smile all the time (even during the "sad" times). It is well written, funny (Phineas Crumblebottom!!!) , sexy (the shower scene <3) and adorable . What made me like it even more are other characters - Stella, Patrick and especially Andy. I really, really need to know Andy's story :)
February 21, 2021
Here we go:
Plot: 4 stars -- I liked the premise and how the initial misunderstanding hooked me and garnered my attention for both men. As with Ruebins' first book, it was a little up and down, but overall, I found this one stronger.
Main characters: 4 stars -- I liked both Ryan and Emmett, and although Emmett seemed a little immature, he stepped up throughout the books (and again, I like the dual POV).
Smut level: Okay -- this is another one where I can't really remember the balance between plot and smut, so I either skimmed or it was okay.
Romance: 3.5 stars -- the relationship between the two didn't really have as much chemistry as I personally prefer, but it was sweet, even if easily resolved.
World/setting: 3 stars -- Rose Falls is a little generic and doesn't have as much character as I think it could have. It's okay.
Overall: 4 stars (rounded up)
Plot: 4 stars -- I liked the premise and how the initial misunderstanding hooked me and garnered my attention for both men. As with Ruebins' first book, it was a little up and down, but overall, I found this one stronger.
Main characters: 4 stars -- I liked both Ryan and Emmett, and although Emmett seemed a little immature, he stepped up throughout the books (and again, I like the dual POV).
Smut level: Okay -- this is another one where I can't really remember the balance between plot and smut, so I either skimmed or it was okay.
Romance: 3.5 stars -- the relationship between the two didn't really have as much chemistry as I personally prefer, but it was sweet, even if easily resolved.
World/setting: 3 stars -- Rose Falls is a little generic and doesn't have as much character as I think it could have. It's okay.
Overall: 4 stars (rounded up)
October 17, 2021
I liked how Emmett wasn't the typical player type. He's slept with a lot of guys but with Ryan he's not this ultra confident, smooth guy. He's adorablely flustered. He made me laugh.
Ryan is a sweetheart. He's a bit nerdy, a bit of a workaholic but he's accepting. He's very loving.
Emmett was def living by fear. As soon as someone triggers his fear, he gets mad or dumps them. He's been living that way for years but Ryan is different. He cares about Ryan and Ryan cares about him.
It's a sweet story about how two people find what they want and need in each other.
I'm not a big fan of first person perspective and I had a bit of trouble remembering who "I" was talking about. Once I got a firm grip of the individual MCs, it was easier. The perspective was the only thing that kinda bugged me but it's a personal preference.
Ryan is a sweetheart. He's a bit nerdy, a bit of a workaholic but he's accepting. He's very loving.
Emmett was def living by fear. As soon as someone triggers his fear, he gets mad or dumps them. He's been living that way for years but Ryan is different. He cares about Ryan and Ryan cares about him.
It's a sweet story about how two people find what they want and need in each other.
I'm not a big fan of first person perspective and I had a bit of trouble remembering who "I" was talking about. Once I got a firm grip of the individual MCs, it was easier. The perspective was the only thing that kinda bugged me but it's a personal preference.
December 5, 2017
What a lovely 👬 holiday romance! This second in the new series is as good as the first! In this story Emmett, a commitment phobic 30-something, can't resist hooking up with a handsome stranger at a wedding and finds that life has more than an endless string of hook-ups in store for him. Both heroes were great characters and the alternating point of view used for this story gave them depth. Ryan, the father of adorable 6-month old Anna, has the more positive outlook of the two MCs and has his own failed relationship to deal with, but he's one hot dad who is ready to jump back on the relationship bandwagon. Plenty of heat and tender moments, with a perfect conclusion.:-)
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author; this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author; this is my voluntary and honest review.
December 18, 2017
Another great read from Raleigh Ruebins. I loved this book, the chemistry between the characters, the emotion and the hot scenes. Although it's book 2 in the Rose Falls Series it could easily be read as a standalone but better when you know more of the extended backstory.
This is a love story, single Dad Ryan has given up on finding the one, although he lives in hope, and Emmett is a complete relationship phobic. A hot session in a closet at a wedding has them both thinking differently. That is until another guest tells Emmett that Ryan is married with a baby, Emmett leaves. Both regret the situation and yearn for each other.
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This is a love story, single Dad Ryan has given up on finding the one, although he lives in hope, and Emmett is a complete relationship phobic. A hot session in a closet at a wedding has them both thinking differently. That is until another guest tells Emmett that Ryan is married with a baby, Emmett leaves. Both regret the situation and yearn for each other.
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
November 27, 2022
Emmett & Ryan
Commitment-phobe Emmett breaks his rules and hooks up at a wedding except this guy is different and he can’t stop thinking about him even after he thinks he’s been lied to. Ryan has responsibilities, a job he’s serious about, a baby he needs to protect but he can’t stop thinking about Emmett. His hookup, something he never does. His inner nice-guy needs to make things right, he needs Emmett to know he never lied. Emmett accepts his apology and continues to break all his rules for Ryan. Emmett has fears that we all have but his self-imposed rules about hookups and never striving for more so he can’t be disappointed broke my heart. Ryan is good for him, fighting for him in his corner. Sweet story and a cute baby!
Commitment-phobe Emmett breaks his rules and hooks up at a wedding except this guy is different and he can’t stop thinking about him even after he thinks he’s been lied to. Ryan has responsibilities, a job he’s serious about, a baby he needs to protect but he can’t stop thinking about Emmett. His hookup, something he never does. His inner nice-guy needs to make things right, he needs Emmett to know he never lied. Emmett accepts his apology and continues to break all his rules for Ryan. Emmett has fears that we all have but his self-imposed rules about hookups and never striving for more so he can’t be disappointed broke my heart. Ryan is good for him, fighting for him in his corner. Sweet story and a cute baby!
December 27, 2017
I love this second in the series to Rose Falls and Raleigh has written a beautiful story between Emmett and Ryan. This is a standalone but characters from the first novel make an appearance and Emmett is the brother of Devin from 'Finally Falling'.
This one is beautifully written and the relationship between Emmett and Ryan honestly developed and with Anna, a sweet family is merged. I fell in love with all of these characters in My Winter Family and I hope we see more of this family as we return to Rose Falls. This one for me is probably my favourite Raleigh Ruebins tale.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
This one is beautifully written and the relationship between Emmett and Ryan honestly developed and with Anna, a sweet family is merged. I fell in love with all of these characters in My Winter Family and I hope we see more of this family as we return to Rose Falls. This one for me is probably my favourite Raleigh Ruebins tale.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
July 3, 2018
When you meet the one that changes everything
This is the second book in the series and it's about Emmett (older brother to Devin from book one).
Emmett claims that he doesn't do and doesn't want a relationship.
But when he meets Ryan it becomes clear that he really is just terrified of being hurt again.
And Ryan makes him want things again and when you add Ryans adorable baby Anna to the mix Emmett really can't stop falling for them both.
Ryan on the other hand think he's to boring and responsible for someone so vibrant and full of life as Emmett. But neither of them can deny that they have something special together.
This is the second book in the series and it's about Emmett (older brother to Devin from book one).
Emmett claims that he doesn't do and doesn't want a relationship.
But when he meets Ryan it becomes clear that he really is just terrified of being hurt again.
And Ryan makes him want things again and when you add Ryans adorable baby Anna to the mix Emmett really can't stop falling for them both.
Ryan on the other hand think he's to boring and responsible for someone so vibrant and full of life as Emmett. But neither of them can deny that they have something special together.
December 5, 2017
A beautiful family for Emmet!!
Ever since Devin's story, I have been intrigued by his brother Emmet. Now, he is a fun guy, cute and very independent but he has been hurt and doesn't believe in everafters. Then comes Ryan, hot and sexy nerd with a family in tow. What's Emmet to do with this charming man? It hurts how life can be so disappointing that he has lost his fire. But love does amazing things to one's self hatred. I really loved this story, always sweet and heartfelt. Loving the series. I would love to see how Andy does in life. He's awfully cute.
Ever since Devin's story, I have been intrigued by his brother Emmet. Now, he is a fun guy, cute and very independent but he has been hurt and doesn't believe in everafters. Then comes Ryan, hot and sexy nerd with a family in tow. What's Emmet to do with this charming man? It hurts how life can be so disappointing that he has lost his fire. But love does amazing things to one's self hatred. I really loved this story, always sweet and heartfelt. Loving the series. I would love to see how Andy does in life. He's awfully cute.
January 6, 2018
I enjoyed this novella. It had everything to make you not want to out the book down. It had two characters that were hurt by past lovers. Each had different views on their past relationships but had the same need to find the special someone to share their lives with. Ryan is the hopeful romantic that sees good in people. Emmett is the heartbroken that doesn't see himself as worthy for anyone. Their connection breaks a lot of barriers and clearly are perfect for each other. I really enjoyed the additional characters in this novella. I'm eager to read more from this author.
January 29, 2024
Cozy, charming, well written
This is a well written novel with a couple of charming and loveable characters. It is an easy-to-read yet captivating story about two opposite MCs, so different in life expectations that their love seems doomed when they first meet. The dual POV narrative gives enough insight into the emotions and rationale behind MC's actions and decisions that make characters relatable and change a straightforward plot into a captivating read.
Fans of charming, cozy, heartwarming, well-written novels will enjoy this book.
This is a well written novel with a couple of charming and loveable characters. It is an easy-to-read yet captivating story about two opposite MCs, so different in life expectations that their love seems doomed when they first meet. The dual POV narrative gives enough insight into the emotions and rationale behind MC's actions and decisions that make characters relatable and change a straightforward plot into a captivating read.
Fans of charming, cozy, heartwarming, well-written novels will enjoy this book.
December 7, 2017
A great followup to Finally Falling
The continuation of Finally Following focusing on Devin's brother Emmitt who turns out to be a complex character with plenty of personal issues including self-doubt and confidence. Enter Ryan, who is his total opposite and read how their worlds start to interweave. The book is a quick read and is very enjoyable since Raleigh Ruebins writing style is so easy to follow.
Looking forward to Book 3
The continuation of Finally Following focusing on Devin's brother Emmitt who turns out to be a complex character with plenty of personal issues including self-doubt and confidence. Enter Ryan, who is his total opposite and read how their worlds start to interweave. The book is a quick read and is very enjoyable since Raleigh Ruebins writing style is so easy to follow.
Looking forward to Book 3
December 8, 2017
My Winter Family was such a great read. I enjoyed every minute. Emmett and Ryan were very opposite, and they somehow found a way together. I loved the vulnerability of Emmett and how sure Ryan was without being a jerk. And Anna was adorable. I really liked this book and the town and people were interesting too, the descriptions made me want to move there and meet everyone. I don’t know how I missed it, but I need to read book 1 of Rose Falls series. I would totally recommend this book.
December 14, 2017
The story had a nice steady pace to keep the story moving along nicely. I loved the story from start to finish. I thought Emmett and Ryan had great chemistry. They heated up the pages and kept the story interesting to read. I love happy endings. Hope to read more of the authors stories from their book shelves. Will be stalking for a long time to read their stories.
Got ARC for an honest review.
Thank you for sharing your book with us.
Got ARC for an honest review.
Thank you for sharing your book with us.
January 1, 2020
Emmett and Ryan...
This was a solid three and a half stars for me. I love a single dad troupe, I love a self-doubting man but sometimes Emmett's self-doubts sounded like a teenager which pulled away from the story. However Ryan was an amazing dad and understanding partner who was willing to patiently walk through Emmett's insecurities. The ending was sweet and both got their happily ever after.
This was a solid three and a half stars for me. I love a single dad troupe, I love a self-doubting man but sometimes Emmett's self-doubts sounded like a teenager which pulled away from the story. However Ryan was an amazing dad and understanding partner who was willing to patiently walk through Emmett's insecurities. The ending was sweet and both got their happily ever after.
January 17, 2024
This is the book for anxiety and self doubt hold you back - dreams can come true !
Emmet a small town barista with big dreams and lots of hidden potential. It amazing a bright light was smothered by cruel people but Emmett was able to survive and shine brighter. Ryan seems to be doing what is becoming a bigger trend no longer waiting for Mr Wright but starting a family of his own. Ryan's patience and never ending support can heal some wounds. MM romance yes verse
Emmet a small town barista with big dreams and lots of hidden potential. It amazing a bright light was smothered by cruel people but Emmett was able to survive and shine brighter. Ryan seems to be doing what is becoming a bigger trend no longer waiting for Mr Wright but starting a family of his own. Ryan's patience and never ending support can heal some wounds. MM romance yes verse
June 2, 2024
Omgawd! Emmett & Ryan!❤️
I love Raleigh Ruebins's books (stories that I didn't even know I need)!
I love that Emmett was given his own hea with Ryan, and despite Emmett's fears, Ryan was able to win him (with patience and love), along with the cuteness of Ms. Anna-banna, Emmett's family (including Devin & Russ), as well as fun and colorful friends, this was absolutely perfect!!❤️
I love Raleigh Ruebins's books (stories that I didn't even know I need)!
I love that Emmett was given his own hea with Ryan, and despite Emmett's fears, Ryan was able to win him (with patience and love), along with the cuteness of Ms. Anna-banna, Emmett's family (including Devin & Russ), as well as fun and colorful friends, this was absolutely perfect!!❤️
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