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The Oleander Chronicles #1
Reunion
A man betrayed
The day Brett Payne turned eighteen, he attended a party that left him disillusioned, his trust shattered, and feeling betrayed by Tony Russo, his first love.
Nearly fifteen years later, Brett returns to his hometown of Oleander, Florida to help his mother, who’s in the hospital. When chance brings Brett and Tony back together, it turns out that while sex isn’t off the table (or the floor, or the shower, or the countertops), Brett isn't sure he can truly trust the man who broke his heart.
A man rejected
Fifteen years after he was abandoned by Brett, Tony's dreams for the future were smashed, one by one, until he’s forced to return to Oleander. Barely scraping by as a handyman, he’s hired, reluctantly, by Brett to make improvements at his mother's house. Being near his first love awakens old feelings that Tony thought were buried forever, and he is irresistibly drawn to the stranger the years have turned Brett into.
A second chance at love
Together, Tony and Brett’s passion sets fire to both their lives and plans for the future. Past hurts are unburied, secrets are uncovered, and their lives will never be the same. For the first time in years, Tony feels he might have a future worth looking forward to, but only if Brett is willing to once again risk his heart.
Reunion is an extremely steamy standalone romance with HEA featuring two grown men who desperately need to find their way home, geographically misplaced waterfowl, and a town where just about anything might happen, and often does.
The day Brett Payne turned eighteen, he attended a party that left him disillusioned, his trust shattered, and feeling betrayed by Tony Russo, his first love.
Nearly fifteen years later, Brett returns to his hometown of Oleander, Florida to help his mother, who’s in the hospital. When chance brings Brett and Tony back together, it turns out that while sex isn’t off the table (or the floor, or the shower, or the countertops), Brett isn't sure he can truly trust the man who broke his heart.
A man rejected
Fifteen years after he was abandoned by Brett, Tony's dreams for the future were smashed, one by one, until he’s forced to return to Oleander. Barely scraping by as a handyman, he’s hired, reluctantly, by Brett to make improvements at his mother's house. Being near his first love awakens old feelings that Tony thought were buried forever, and he is irresistibly drawn to the stranger the years have turned Brett into.
A second chance at love
Together, Tony and Brett’s passion sets fire to both their lives and plans for the future. Past hurts are unburied, secrets are uncovered, and their lives will never be the same. For the first time in years, Tony feels he might have a future worth looking forward to, but only if Brett is willing to once again risk his heart.
Reunion is an extremely steamy standalone romance with HEA featuring two grown men who desperately need to find their way home, geographically misplaced waterfowl, and a town where just about anything might happen, and often does.
387 pages, ebook
First published February 25, 2018
109 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
April 10, 2021
I loved almost everything about this book.
- Tony was a sweetheart with a hard exterior that I wanted to cuddle and protect. I loved that contradiction especially with how he was portrayed in his youth versus how he grew up to be.
- Second Chance romance after years which I adore.
- Dirty talk, smexy times and plenty of steam.
- Awesome narration by Michael F.
- Interesting side characters... I'm excited about Levi and Jacob! Maybe Maxi too.... #FingersCrossed
- Lynn's writing style really grips me. It's smooth and entertaining.
What I didn't like though is:
- Brett.. I couldn't warm up to him at all.
- The assumptions and miscommunications and then lack of communication. That honestly dragged the story a bit. There was too much of it and got frustrating.
- Making Tony's late husband into the bad guy.
- Tony was a sweetheart with a hard exterior that I wanted to cuddle and protect. I loved that contradiction especially with how he was portrayed in his youth versus how he grew up to be.
- Second Chance romance after years which I adore.
- Dirty talk, smexy times and plenty of steam.
- Awesome narration by Michael F.
- Interesting side characters... I'm excited about Levi and Jacob! Maybe Maxi too.... #FingersCrossed
- Lynn's writing style really grips me. It's smooth and entertaining.
What I didn't like though is:
- Brett.. I couldn't warm up to him at all.
- The assumptions and miscommunications and then lack of communication. That honestly dragged the story a bit. There was too much of it and got frustrating.
- Making Tony's late husband into the bad guy.
July 21, 2021
Hm, so....I wanted to love this one. It had the makings of a really great story, it had the potential, but...it fell flat, a bit. There were things I liked/loved, there were things that frustrated and annoyed me, and things that I hated.
I'll start with the things I liked:
✓ Tony, for almost this whole book. He was my favorite.
✓ Most of the time, I enjoyed Brett's character.
✓ A good amount of the time, I enjoyed these two together.
✓ There were many parts that I loved in this, just the dialogue, the characters, the action, was fun and enjoyable.
But...as good as those things are, there is a lot that annoyed the crap out of me and that I feel the need to rant about:
✖︎ First off, this was way too long. This wasn't a story that needed over 300 pages to tell it. By around 70-ish percent, I was wanting it to hurry up and finish. It was close to becoming more of a chore to read it by then, then enjoyable.
✖︎ Near the end, the author switched up the POV to Brett's ex, Jacob a few times, and even Jacob's BFF, Maxie, and I'm sitting here going...what? Is this not Brett and Tony's book? They don't even appear in parts that are Jacob and Maxie's POV sometimes. I didn't care about Jacob or Maxie, so it pulled me out of the story.
✖︎ These two took forever to talk. It was the classic, "no I don't want to talk about what happened 15 years ago" even though they're both still making assumptions (mainly Brett. Okay, all Brett. Brett's just making assumptions) and those things would be cleared up with a conversation. They had plenty of sex, which when it just became a lot of sex happening, got annoying.
I can get over characters having sex instead of talking a few times in a book. Maybe 2 times or so. Depends. But when it happens over and over again, it gets tiring and annoying and I almost resent the sex that is happening. I don't care about the sex at that point, I want them to fucking talk already! There's only so many sex scenes you can shove in there to keep putting off the inevitable. Or them talking about things that aren't their issues, either.
Then...there were the things I hated (or at least strongly disliked):
✖︎ Even though it's the driving force for the plot, what separates these two for 15 years annoys me. Because it's all one big "didn't bother to even talk to you and just ignored you as a way of breaking up with you" situation. The book even mentions that these two were at the same college (!!!) and only saw each other once, and when Tony tried to talk to Brett, Brett turned tail and ran, and that was the last time they saw each other. For 15 years.
The catalyst is that Tony and Brett have been together for 3 years, Brett has just turned 18, they haven't had anal sex yet and Tony wants to use an empty bedroom at this party for them to finally do it, and asks Brett to come to this party. Tony doesn't show up, Brett gets bullied, badly, and then places all his anger and blame on Tony, and we even learn that he went so far as to think Tony set him up to be hurt.
Like...you're this guys boyfriend for 3 years - THREE years - and you think so lowly of your boyfriend that he would do that to you? Brett even thinks, at the time being 18, that it was all Tony just pretending to like, even love Brett, all this time, and none of it was real, just so he could hurt and humiliate him by leaving him to the wolves at a party.
Like?! Okay, I get that he had just turned 18, he went through a LOT - he was constantly bullied his whole life - and he went through something high traumatic. And even at first, yeah, I can see him thinking the worst.
But once he'd calmed down, he didn't think rationally? Like who fuck would waste 3 years - THREE YEARS - being with someone just so they could hurt and humiliate them at this ONE party as they're graduating? Like it makes no sense. Even the most hurt and vindictive of people don't play that long game, as far as I'm aware. Like who plans that for so long? Especially for someone they don't have such strong ill will against, like if it was revenge or something. You'd have to be some sociopath or something (and even then...would even a sociopath waste that much of their life trying to set someone up for this one event to hurt them? If they wanted it that badly, wouldn't they just do it themselves or just...quickly? Idk)
So Brett's logic left a LOT to be desired. And to just...throw all his hate and anger at Tony and not even once try to hear his side of the story? So much so that they waste 15 fucking years without each other? I just....it's too much for me to get past. It's just ridiculous. And then Brett eventually learns *why* Tony didn't make it that night and it was a legit reason. But NO, that couldn't POSSIBLY be the case, Tony had it out for Brett! Apparently....
Which, they still had a month before they left that town, and Brett just...didn't think to give his boyfriend of three years a chance to explain? He just shut him out entirely? Lol OKAY. Brett, honestly, should have apologized more to Tony. I know Brett went through horrible shit that night, but Tony didn't do it and he didn't cause it. It wasn't his fault, and he just broke Tony's heart, like that, and never considered that there could be any other explanation.
There's assuming, and then there's Brett. God. And again, I mostly liked Brett. He wasn't too bad, as his adult self. He'd obviously matured, he was more settled into himself, and he was learning, somewhat, from his past mistakes. Over the course of this, we see him become better, even though there are stumbling blocks along the way.
But still, the initial fuck up is just so....big that I just can't get past it. I hated it. The author could have come up with a better reason for a break up that would pull them apart for years than that. It was stupid, contrived, and hard to believe. I don't care that Brett was 18. Yes, he's young, but even young people can't be this ridiculous and stupid. It just goes beyond teenage stupidity and naivite, in my book. Ugh, it still bothered me.
✖︎ The whole thing with Greg, Tony's dead fiance. He was totally a manipulative, toxic person and I don't why it wasn't called even more. Brett is the only one who saw Greg for what he was. Tony, I totally see thinking he was great. Greg wasn't physically abusive, or even emotionally abusive. But I would say he was mentally abusive, which is different emotional abuse in some instances, I think.
He literally tried to mold Tony into what he wanted him to be. He passive aggressively put Tony down in such a way as for Tony to think he was worthless, or not good enough, and that he had to do better. Fuck, Tony even feels bad for accidentally scraping his fork on his plate and say something along the lines of "I'm sorry I wasn't holding them right" or something.
Brett points out that Tony was showing signs of an abused child, and he was right! Tony was just abused person, period. Maybe not in the ways we're used to or see often, but it's true. If someone gets to a point where they're afraid - or even not that afraid, so much as sad or disappointed in themselves - when they make even the tiniest mistake, such as scraping a fork on a plate, that screams abuse to me.
The book points out that Tony was basically made to be Gregs "pet dog" in a way. Owned by Greg. And Greg was 16, 17 years older than Tony when they met, and his professor. Which, isn't inherently bad in and of itself. Tony was legal, they're adult and all that, etc. Age differences are not inherently abusive. But there is that potential for it. Greg was the older man, and he basically made Tony in his image.
And he passive aggressively and systematically tore Tony down until he felt like all he needed was Greg, and that he had to give, give, give to Greg and Greg only. That Tony just had to be a passive, perfect house husband. Fuck, Tony never even had a real job until Greg died. He had no job while he was with Greg. Like zero job. All he did was take care of their house all day, and that's the way Greg liked it, and Tony thought he was happy too, but the fact that after Greg died that he didn't want to go back to the way he was with Greg, says that he wasn't actually happy.
If he had been, he would have had no problem accepting that kind of life with Brett, would have even happily told him he wanted it. But he didn't.
I just wish that Greg, even though he was dead, would have gotten more of a comeuppance. Tony, at best, finally starts to question his relationship with Greg and gets angry about it. But he never admits that he was abused. Hell, his family thought that Greg was the perfect loving partner and that Tony was happy with him. What the fuck? His sister never saw any signs? I mean, they lived far away from each other, to be fair, but Tony says they visited several times, him and Greg, his family. No one saw it then? Give me a break.
I just...hated how Greg, even though he was never alive in this, got to be so loved by Tony for so long, and even after he wasn't seen as perfect anymore by Tony, he wasn't exactly...hated, either. Tony should have hated Greg for what he did to him.
I don't know, it just pissed me off, and we just never got the pay off with this plot point that I would have liked. Hell, Tony is barely scarping by after Greg dies because he has no job history at 30 years old, and he has to work under the table for cash in Oleander to even had a job and make money, and he lives in an RV. Because he was a "kept man" as it were. Greg put him in this little box and systematically forced him into it without Tony knowing or realizing how fucked it was.
Just...ugh. Pissed me off.
✖︎ And lastly, what I really disliked, was Tony near the end. The one time he pissed me off. Because here is Brett, who assumed ALL this bullshit when they were young, and assumed the worse of Tony, and never even tried to hear Tony's side, and Tony dealt with that heartbreak for years.
But then Jacob, Brett's ex, just comes rolling into town to "try to get Brett back" which doesn't amount to anything, and Tony sees him and just....goes and assumes the worst. He just goes ahead and does what Brett did to him, and doesn't even think about what he's doing.
Like, if anyone should know about not jumping to conclusions and asking someone about things before assuming, it would be Tony.
But nope, he just assumes that Brett called Jacob to come to the town, just because Brett hasn't said he loved him back (they've been sleeping together for about 2 weeks at this point, since Brett has been back in town. Tony says he loves Brett after like one week, Brett doesn't say it by that Friday, and tries to change the subject when the subject of staying or not staying comes up) and Tony thinks that that means Brett doesn't want him, he wants his ex - who Brett told Tony about, and said they weren't going to last, even - and that Brett is never going to love him and doesn't want him, really, and just wants to use him for fucking.
Like...okay. This was all used for drama's sake. Tony gets into a snit, throws harsh, nasty worse at Brett, doesn't seem to notice Brett having a panic attack (like what? how? why?) and just keeps going at him, and then leaves, and is angry at Brett and only once they have sex (of course!), does Tony calm down enough that they talk about their issues. And once they finally start talking about their issues, well they're just fountains of communication then! Of course, it's so easy after that!
Like just a week ago or something Tony is determined for them to be together, and he doesn't want to lose Brett again, but all it takes is Brett not saying I love you back and not having a clear answer after a few days and only about 2 weeks of being in town? Come on.
It was ridiculous, it was manufactured drama, and it made me not like Tony for a bit as he reacted out of character just for drama's sake. What a dramatic shift of his feelings and character out of nowhere.
So, while I enjoyed this, I had huge issues with it
I just can't get past all these issues to rate higher than 3 stars. I enjoyed a good majority of this, but the choices both Brett and Tony made at separate times in this book were just...so ridiculous and stupid and annoying as fuck.
And it came to the point where they were having too much sex, because the sex got in the way of them talking, and so I soon came to not care much about the sex scenes or feel much steam with them at all. It was more of a "here we go again" feeling.
This book just...missed the mark, in several areas. Was it enjoyable at times? Yes. Was it intriguing at times? Yes. Was it still fun overall? For a good portion, I'd say yes. For another portion, I'd say no.
But the issues are just too big and glaring for me to have fully enjoyed this to give it more than 3 stars. It had major issues and that just ramped down my enjoyment by a lot and left me feeling a tad "meh" at the end of this.
And honestly, I made myself read the last 30-ish percent (instead of skimming like I felt like doing), but I couldn't even fully get through the epilogue, and actually skimmed it, because I was just...done with the book. Tired of it, wanting it to be over. It was too long, too melodramatic, too infuriating at several parts in the book, for me to be too invested in what happened at the end.
*shrug* That's just the way it goes, I guess.
Not as great an outing as my first work by this author. Still enjoyable at most times and it had that potential to be a great story, but it fell short in many ways.
I'll still be giving this author a chance in the future, but this one just wasn't much of a win, overall.
I'll start with the things I liked:
✓ Tony, for almost this whole book. He was my favorite.
✓ Most of the time, I enjoyed Brett's character.
✓ A good amount of the time, I enjoyed these two together.
✓ There were many parts that I loved in this, just the dialogue, the characters, the action, was fun and enjoyable.
But...as good as those things are, there is a lot that annoyed the crap out of me and that I feel the need to rant about:
✖︎ First off, this was way too long. This wasn't a story that needed over 300 pages to tell it. By around 70-ish percent, I was wanting it to hurry up and finish. It was close to becoming more of a chore to read it by then, then enjoyable.
✖︎ Near the end, the author switched up the POV to Brett's ex, Jacob a few times, and even Jacob's BFF, Maxie, and I'm sitting here going...what? Is this not Brett and Tony's book? They don't even appear in parts that are Jacob and Maxie's POV sometimes. I didn't care about Jacob or Maxie, so it pulled me out of the story.
✖︎ These two took forever to talk. It was the classic, "no I don't want to talk about what happened 15 years ago" even though they're both still making assumptions (mainly Brett. Okay, all Brett. Brett's just making assumptions) and those things would be cleared up with a conversation. They had plenty of sex, which when it just became a lot of sex happening, got annoying.
I can get over characters having sex instead of talking a few times in a book. Maybe 2 times or so. Depends. But when it happens over and over again, it gets tiring and annoying and I almost resent the sex that is happening. I don't care about the sex at that point, I want them to fucking talk already! There's only so many sex scenes you can shove in there to keep putting off the inevitable. Or them talking about things that aren't their issues, either.
Then...there were the things I hated (or at least strongly disliked):
✖︎ Even though it's the driving force for the plot, what separates these two for 15 years annoys me. Because it's all one big "didn't bother to even talk to you and just ignored you as a way of breaking up with you" situation. The book even mentions that these two were at the same college (!!!) and only saw each other once, and when Tony tried to talk to Brett, Brett turned tail and ran, and that was the last time they saw each other. For 15 years.
The catalyst is that Tony and Brett have been together for 3 years, Brett has just turned 18, they haven't had anal sex yet and Tony wants to use an empty bedroom at this party for them to finally do it, and asks Brett to come to this party. Tony doesn't show up, Brett gets bullied, badly, and then places all his anger and blame on Tony, and we even learn that he went so far as to think Tony set him up to be hurt.
Like...you're this guys boyfriend for 3 years - THREE years - and you think so lowly of your boyfriend that he would do that to you? Brett even thinks, at the time being 18, that it was all Tony just pretending to like, even love Brett, all this time, and none of it was real, just so he could hurt and humiliate him by leaving him to the wolves at a party.
Like?! Okay, I get that he had just turned 18, he went through a LOT - he was constantly bullied his whole life - and he went through something high traumatic. And even at first, yeah, I can see him thinking the worst.
But once he'd calmed down, he didn't think rationally? Like who fuck would waste 3 years - THREE YEARS - being with someone just so they could hurt and humiliate them at this ONE party as they're graduating? Like it makes no sense. Even the most hurt and vindictive of people don't play that long game, as far as I'm aware. Like who plans that for so long? Especially for someone they don't have such strong ill will against, like if it was revenge or something. You'd have to be some sociopath or something (and even then...would even a sociopath waste that much of their life trying to set someone up for this one event to hurt them? If they wanted it that badly, wouldn't they just do it themselves or just...quickly? Idk)
So Brett's logic left a LOT to be desired. And to just...throw all his hate and anger at Tony and not even once try to hear his side of the story? So much so that they waste 15 fucking years without each other? I just....it's too much for me to get past. It's just ridiculous. And then Brett eventually learns *why* Tony didn't make it that night and it was a legit reason. But NO, that couldn't POSSIBLY be the case, Tony had it out for Brett! Apparently....
Which, they still had a month before they left that town, and Brett just...didn't think to give his boyfriend of three years a chance to explain? He just shut him out entirely? Lol OKAY. Brett, honestly, should have apologized more to Tony. I know Brett went through horrible shit that night, but Tony didn't do it and he didn't cause it. It wasn't his fault, and he just broke Tony's heart, like that, and never considered that there could be any other explanation.
There's assuming, and then there's Brett. God. And again, I mostly liked Brett. He wasn't too bad, as his adult self. He'd obviously matured, he was more settled into himself, and he was learning, somewhat, from his past mistakes. Over the course of this, we see him become better, even though there are stumbling blocks along the way.
But still, the initial fuck up is just so....big that I just can't get past it. I hated it. The author could have come up with a better reason for a break up that would pull them apart for years than that. It was stupid, contrived, and hard to believe. I don't care that Brett was 18. Yes, he's young, but even young people can't be this ridiculous and stupid. It just goes beyond teenage stupidity and naivite, in my book. Ugh, it still bothered me.
✖︎ The whole thing with Greg, Tony's dead fiance. He was totally a manipulative, toxic person and I don't why it wasn't called even more. Brett is the only one who saw Greg for what he was. Tony, I totally see thinking he was great. Greg wasn't physically abusive, or even emotionally abusive. But I would say he was mentally abusive, which is different emotional abuse in some instances, I think.
He literally tried to mold Tony into what he wanted him to be. He passive aggressively put Tony down in such a way as for Tony to think he was worthless, or not good enough, and that he had to do better. Fuck, Tony even feels bad for accidentally scraping his fork on his plate and say something along the lines of "I'm sorry I wasn't holding them right" or something.
Brett points out that Tony was showing signs of an abused child, and he was right! Tony was just abused person, period. Maybe not in the ways we're used to or see often, but it's true. If someone gets to a point where they're afraid - or even not that afraid, so much as sad or disappointed in themselves - when they make even the tiniest mistake, such as scraping a fork on a plate, that screams abuse to me.
The book points out that Tony was basically made to be Gregs "pet dog" in a way. Owned by Greg. And Greg was 16, 17 years older than Tony when they met, and his professor. Which, isn't inherently bad in and of itself. Tony was legal, they're adult and all that, etc. Age differences are not inherently abusive. But there is that potential for it. Greg was the older man, and he basically made Tony in his image.
And he passive aggressively and systematically tore Tony down until he felt like all he needed was Greg, and that he had to give, give, give to Greg and Greg only. That Tony just had to be a passive, perfect house husband. Fuck, Tony never even had a real job until Greg died. He had no job while he was with Greg. Like zero job. All he did was take care of their house all day, and that's the way Greg liked it, and Tony thought he was happy too, but the fact that after Greg died that he didn't want to go back to the way he was with Greg, says that he wasn't actually happy.
If he had been, he would have had no problem accepting that kind of life with Brett, would have even happily told him he wanted it. But he didn't.
I just wish that Greg, even though he was dead, would have gotten more of a comeuppance. Tony, at best, finally starts to question his relationship with Greg and gets angry about it. But he never admits that he was abused. Hell, his family thought that Greg was the perfect loving partner and that Tony was happy with him. What the fuck? His sister never saw any signs? I mean, they lived far away from each other, to be fair, but Tony says they visited several times, him and Greg, his family. No one saw it then? Give me a break.
I just...hated how Greg, even though he was never alive in this, got to be so loved by Tony for so long, and even after he wasn't seen as perfect anymore by Tony, he wasn't exactly...hated, either. Tony should have hated Greg for what he did to him.
I don't know, it just pissed me off, and we just never got the pay off with this plot point that I would have liked. Hell, Tony is barely scarping by after Greg dies because he has no job history at 30 years old, and he has to work under the table for cash in Oleander to even had a job and make money, and he lives in an RV. Because he was a "kept man" as it were. Greg put him in this little box and systematically forced him into it without Tony knowing or realizing how fucked it was.
Just...ugh. Pissed me off.
✖︎ And lastly, what I really disliked, was Tony near the end. The one time he pissed me off. Because here is Brett, who assumed ALL this bullshit when they were young, and assumed the worse of Tony, and never even tried to hear Tony's side, and Tony dealt with that heartbreak for years.
But then Jacob, Brett's ex, just comes rolling into town to "try to get Brett back" which doesn't amount to anything, and Tony sees him and just....goes and assumes the worst. He just goes ahead and does what Brett did to him, and doesn't even think about what he's doing.
Like, if anyone should know about not jumping to conclusions and asking someone about things before assuming, it would be Tony.
But nope, he just assumes that Brett called Jacob to come to the town, just because Brett hasn't said he loved him back (they've been sleeping together for about 2 weeks at this point, since Brett has been back in town. Tony says he loves Brett after like one week, Brett doesn't say it by that Friday, and tries to change the subject when the subject of staying or not staying comes up) and Tony thinks that that means Brett doesn't want him, he wants his ex - who Brett told Tony about, and said they weren't going to last, even - and that Brett is never going to love him and doesn't want him, really, and just wants to use him for fucking.
Like...okay. This was all used for drama's sake. Tony gets into a snit, throws harsh, nasty worse at Brett, doesn't seem to notice Brett having a panic attack (like what? how? why?) and just keeps going at him, and then leaves, and is angry at Brett and only once they have sex (of course!), does Tony calm down enough that they talk about their issues. And once they finally start talking about their issues, well they're just fountains of communication then! Of course, it's so easy after that!
Like just a week ago or something Tony is determined for them to be together, and he doesn't want to lose Brett again, but all it takes is Brett not saying I love you back and not having a clear answer after a few days and only about 2 weeks of being in town? Come on.
It was ridiculous, it was manufactured drama, and it made me not like Tony for a bit as he reacted out of character just for drama's sake. What a dramatic shift of his feelings and character out of nowhere.
So, while I enjoyed this, I had huge issues with it
I just can't get past all these issues to rate higher than 3 stars. I enjoyed a good majority of this, but the choices both Brett and Tony made at separate times in this book were just...so ridiculous and stupid and annoying as fuck.
And it came to the point where they were having too much sex, because the sex got in the way of them talking, and so I soon came to not care much about the sex scenes or feel much steam with them at all. It was more of a "here we go again" feeling.
This book just...missed the mark, in several areas. Was it enjoyable at times? Yes. Was it intriguing at times? Yes. Was it still fun overall? For a good portion, I'd say yes. For another portion, I'd say no.
But the issues are just too big and glaring for me to have fully enjoyed this to give it more than 3 stars. It had major issues and that just ramped down my enjoyment by a lot and left me feeling a tad "meh" at the end of this.
And honestly, I made myself read the last 30-ish percent (instead of skimming like I felt like doing), but I couldn't even fully get through the epilogue, and actually skimmed it, because I was just...done with the book. Tired of it, wanting it to be over. It was too long, too melodramatic, too infuriating at several parts in the book, for me to be too invested in what happened at the end.
*shrug* That's just the way it goes, I guess.
Not as great an outing as my first work by this author. Still enjoyable at most times and it had that potential to be a great story, but it fell short in many ways.
I'll still be giving this author a chance in the future, but this one just wasn't much of a win, overall.
May 26, 2018
dnf @ ~52%
I can't, I just can't anymore. Tony is an irresponsible git, and I hate how sex seem to be the cure for everything in their relationship.
I can't, I just can't anymore. Tony is an irresponsible git, and I hate how sex seem to be the cure for everything in their relationship.
June 5, 2021
I’ll leave my rating but I had more issues reading it this time. One question was never answered; Tony apparently had Greg’s life insurance and sold his house, so how does he end up mostly broke and why is he somehow unable to have a bank account? Makes no sense.
4.5 Second chance love
I’m really liking Lyn Van Dorn’s style of writing characters more complex than they first appear. Terrible circumstances split up Tony and Brett’s teenage love affair. I had a little trouble understanding how they wouldn’t have heard more about each other over the years, the way the denizens of Oleander were presented. But meeting once more meant learning about each other again with all the baggage of the past and the intervening years. Tony was a puzzle for me, the way his character shifted from demanding and domineering with Brett in bed, to shrinking into himself with inculcated self-doubt was a little hard to reconcile.
Tony really tugged at my heartstrings more and more as the story progressed. A subtle form of one type of abuse is addressed in the storyline and I loved the way the author worked it in. Brett was a really good guy but his issues weren’t quite in the same league as Tony’s, once he got out of high school. He does have a very hard time opening up about his feelings which leads to miscommunication drama. It didn’t drag on though. Then there were the added POV’s from Jacob and Maxie. I’m willing to bet they’ll be in the upcoming sequels but the grand sting Maxie helps perpetrate is awesome. It was humorous and heartbreaking and I really enjoyed it. Recommended!
4.5 Second chance love
I’m really liking Lyn Van Dorn’s style of writing characters more complex than they first appear. Terrible circumstances split up Tony and Brett’s teenage love affair. I had a little trouble understanding how they wouldn’t have heard more about each other over the years, the way the denizens of Oleander were presented. But meeting once more meant learning about each other again with all the baggage of the past and the intervening years. Tony was a puzzle for me, the way his character shifted from demanding and domineering with Brett in bed, to shrinking into himself with inculcated self-doubt was a little hard to reconcile.
Tony really tugged at my heartstrings more and more as the story progressed. A subtle form of one type of abuse is addressed in the storyline and I loved the way the author worked it in. Brett was a really good guy but his issues weren’t quite in the same league as Tony’s, once he got out of high school. He does have a very hard time opening up about his feelings which leads to miscommunication drama. It didn’t drag on though. Then there were the added POV’s from Jacob and Maxie. I’m willing to bet they’ll be in the upcoming sequels but the grand sting Maxie helps perpetrate is awesome. It was humorous and heartbreaking and I really enjoyed it. Recommended!
March 8, 2018
At 22%, and chapter 10 starts with back tracking. it's a pet peeve of mine when an author changes POV and goes back in the timeline. Please, just give us a quick synopsis in the new character's POV and move on. I guess this is an editing issue, really. The author needed to know what happened, but should edit it for the reader.
37% now and we are just meandering around the desert, metaphorically. Brett's angry, he's letting Tony manipulate him...he's all over the place . it's painful.
38% and that's a wrap. DNF for lack of focus by the author. There's no story arc. it's just a mess.
37% now and we are just meandering around the desert, metaphorically. Brett's angry, he's letting Tony manipulate him...he's all over the place . it's painful.
38% and that's a wrap. DNF for lack of focus by the author. There's no story arc. it's just a mess.
March 8, 2018
Definitely no emotional allergy here!
I learned a new term today - emotional allergy. Lol! I loved this so much, although it feels a tad bit long. My heart hurt for Tony for at least 60% of the book. That was the first indication that this would be a 4-star (at least) book.
I don’t know how to review this book. It was so very layered. You think you know the story and then you turn the page and another layer has been peeled back that gives it another layer of depth. It’s just so good. But it also hurts so good.
I had an epiphany yesterday. All of us, every single one of us has had a shitty childhood at some point in our lives. It’s just the degree of shitty-ness that separates us all. And here, Tony’s shitty life takes the cake. I won’t spoil it because it is crucial to the story and the way it slowly unravels was done beautifully.
I think the ending could have been executed differently because it felt like everything was tied into a neat bow but otherwise, gosh, it was a pretty perfect story. Loved it to the moon and back! Can’t wait for the next instalment!
I learned a new term today - emotional allergy. Lol! I loved this so much, although it feels a tad bit long. My heart hurt for Tony for at least 60% of the book. That was the first indication that this would be a 4-star (at least) book.
I don’t know how to review this book. It was so very layered. You think you know the story and then you turn the page and another layer has been peeled back that gives it another layer of depth. It’s just so good. But it also hurts so good.
I had an epiphany yesterday. All of us, every single one of us has had a shitty childhood at some point in our lives. It’s just the degree of shitty-ness that separates us all. And here, Tony’s shitty life takes the cake. I won’t spoil it because it is crucial to the story and the way it slowly unravels was done beautifully.
I think the ending could have been executed differently because it felt like everything was tied into a neat bow but otherwise, gosh, it was a pretty perfect story. Loved it to the moon and back! Can’t wait for the next instalment!
February 19, 2021
I simply loved it
I was gladly surprised with this book, this is the first time reading this author and I have to say that I enjoyed it a LOT! I can’t wait for the next two books!
Re-read Feb 2021
God I loved this book so much! ALL the characters brought so much life to this whole little town. Tony and Brett were such a mess in the beginning, my heart ached for all they had to go through. But I just loved how little by little all the pieces of their hearts started patching themselves together.
The narration was superb as always, so much emotion, so much feeling, I was hooked from the beginning.
I cannot wait for the next books, I’m very hopeful we can get one for Levi, Jacob, Max, and even Calvin!
I was gladly surprised with this book, this is the first time reading this author and I have to say that I enjoyed it a LOT! I can’t wait for the next two books!
Re-read Feb 2021
God I loved this book so much! ALL the characters brought so much life to this whole little town. Tony and Brett were such a mess in the beginning, my heart ached for all they had to go through. But I just loved how little by little all the pieces of their hearts started patching themselves together.
The narration was superb as always, so much emotion, so much feeling, I was hooked from the beginning.
I cannot wait for the next books, I’m very hopeful we can get one for Levi, Jacob, Max, and even Calvin!
Read
January 23, 2022I 'm smitten with Brett and Tony...they had such great chemistry...even when they hated each others guts.
The whole concept of their separation bothered me as I don't believe they wouldn't have tried to talk to each other after the devastating party. They should have fought harder for their relationship and not let 15 years slip away.
I'm also pretty sure that Tony is but that is never mentioned or addressed in the book.
I like how complex Brett and Tony are, they both have multiple layers that we get to peal back and enjoy.
The whole concept of their separation bothered me as I don't believe they wouldn't have tried to talk to each other after the devastating party. They should have fought harder for their relationship and not let 15 years slip away.
I'm also pretty sure that Tony is but that is never mentioned or addressed in the book.
I like how complex Brett and Tony are, they both have multiple layers that we get to peal back and enjoy.
August 24, 2018
Well written book, interesting characters. Stale plot (I think I've read this "one night changes everything in high school and we never speak and clear the air for 10+ years but still deep down love each other" about a dozen times in the past few months)
Overdone plot device aside, it's worth reading. You'll enjoy the side characters and like the MC's.
Overdone plot device aside, it's worth reading. You'll enjoy the side characters and like the MC's.
February 26, 2021
Audio Reviewed: 02-18-21
Angsty. Hilarious. Smexy.
Overall : 5 stars
Performance : 5 stars
Story : 5 stars
Michael Ferraiuolo narration of Reunion was brilliant. His performance did justice to Lynn Van Dorn story. He had me either laughing and crying for most of it.
His portrayal of Tony and Brett - the heroes- capture their personality , snarky banter and sexual chemistry perfectly.
I enjoyed this audio a lot.
Angsty. Hilarious. Smexy.
Overall : 5 stars
Performance : 5 stars
Story : 5 stars
Michael Ferraiuolo narration of Reunion was brilliant. His performance did justice to Lynn Van Dorn story. He had me either laughing and crying for most of it.
His portrayal of Tony and Brett - the heroes- capture their personality , snarky banter and sexual chemistry perfectly.
I enjoyed this audio a lot.
March 3, 2021
***audio review***
Second chance romance.
Very tragic backstory for both Brett and Tony that kept them apart as young love was just developing.
Years later, they reconnect. Their chemistry is still very much there. AND it’s hot!
This is a story about their journey back to one another.
Michael is the perfect choice to do this audio for his flamingo noises alone, lol.
I read this book in 2018 and hearing it read to me this time was just what I wanted in a second chance romance.
Forgiveness and love.
Highly recommend.
Second chance romance.
Very tragic backstory for both Brett and Tony that kept them apart as young love was just developing.
Years later, they reconnect. Their chemistry is still very much there. AND it’s hot!
This is a story about their journey back to one another.
Michael is the perfect choice to do this audio for his flamingo noises alone, lol.
I read this book in 2018 and hearing it read to me this time was just what I wanted in a second chance romance.
Forgiveness and love.
Highly recommend.
February 23, 2021
I love a mushy love story. Reunion isn’t mushy but I loved it anyway. It was full of realness and pain. Brette and Tony were highschool sweethearts with big plans. They were going tackle the world together as each other’s first and only. But those rosy dreams were popped and cold reality faced them. Fifteen years go by without them seeing each other. They have over a decade’s worth of relationships, careers and loss under them now. Seeing each other after so long leaves Brette confused and conflicted, but he knows one thing: He will never trust that boy who abandoned him and landed him in the hospital all those years ago. Only Tony isn’t that same kid. And neither is Brette. This second chance romance absolutely tugs at the heart strings and will leave you in tears. The characters and plot were so deep and real. And Michael Ferraiuolo nailed the voice acting.
This is 100% honest 5 star rating. Thank you so much to the Lynn Van Dorn ARC community for giving me a chance to enjoy a free copy of this amazing audiobook. I hope to see a Oleander Chronicles 2 in the near future because I need more of that flamingo loving town!
This is 100% honest 5 star rating. Thank you so much to the Lynn Van Dorn ARC community for giving me a chance to enjoy a free copy of this amazing audiobook. I hope to see a Oleander Chronicles 2 in the near future because I need more of that flamingo loving town!
March 5, 2018
Too long and too many ideas in 1 book!
2 stars- it was sooo long and it was overly complicated.
Brett and Tony dated in high school and after a falling out (which I personally think is not something that would happen in reality) they go their separate ways. 15 years later (and many unresolved issues later) they did themselves in close quarters again. There is angry sex (which I hate!), no talking of feelings or what happened in the past (which is not conducive to a good relationship). Then there is the homophobic (closeted?) Cop who tormented Brett in his youth. (I'm guessing he might be book 2. I'll pass.) Add in Tony' s past abusive relationship and there is just too much happening I this book. At the end, Brett' s ex shows up and no dialogue happens between them.
I think the idea was not flushed out enough. Too many ideas are happening in 1 book and it was too long to be enjoyable.
2 stars- it was sooo long and it was overly complicated.
Brett and Tony dated in high school and after a falling out (which I personally think is not something that would happen in reality) they go their separate ways. 15 years later (and many unresolved issues later) they did themselves in close quarters again. There is angry sex (which I hate!), no talking of feelings or what happened in the past (which is not conducive to a good relationship). Then there is the homophobic (closeted?) Cop who tormented Brett in his youth. (I'm guessing he might be book 2. I'll pass.) Add in Tony' s past abusive relationship and there is just too much happening I this book. At the end, Brett' s ex shows up and no dialogue happens between them.
I think the idea was not flushed out enough. Too many ideas are happening in 1 book and it was too long to be enjoyable.
May 10, 2019
Tony and Brett are idiots. Okay, that's harsh. Tony and Brett are entirely lacking in communication skills. When Tony invites Brett to a party in highschool, and never shows up, Brett is viciously attacked by the school bullies. Brett, reasonable creature that he is, assumes Tony set him up. Tony tries to explain, but Brett isn't interested in listening. Tony has no idea what happened that night, and doesn't understand why Brett has dumped him.
Several years pass, and Brett is now successful doctor, he returns home to help his mother take care of her injury, only to find that Tony has also moved back to the small podunk town where they grew up, and is now the local handyman who he unwittingly hired to do some repairs at his mother's house.
As with most Lynn Van Dorn novels, the characters are rich and complex, with full backstories, and humanizing traits. Even if they are sometimes infuriating and need to be locked in a room until they hash it out.
Several years pass, and Brett is now successful doctor, he returns home to help his mother take care of her injury, only to find that Tony has also moved back to the small podunk town where they grew up, and is now the local handyman who he unwittingly hired to do some repairs at his mother's house.
As with most Lynn Van Dorn novels, the characters are rich and complex, with full backstories, and humanizing traits. Even if they are sometimes infuriating and need to be locked in a room until they hash it out.
May 25, 2021
I’ll start by saying that the only reason I read this book was because I wanted to read the second book. This blurb didn’t really appeal to me. I don’t like second chance romances.
The pacing in this was horrible. Brett and Tony got over their issues fast enough to star fucking like bunnies. And maybe if they spent 10% as much communicating as they did having second, this might have been enjoyable. Instead, they’d rather just not talk about things and make assumptions.
I had actually thought at one point that I was nearing the end of the book, only to glance down and realize I was only 40% done. And then the next bit had far too many things crammed into it.
You have Brett and Tony working out their relationship stuff, Brett dealing with his mother, Brett helping out at the clinic, Tony with his user dead mother, his meddling sister and his emotional abusive dead husband who groomed him… but only realized this once Brett pointed it out. Then you have Devon, the closeted homophobe, Jacob, Maxie and some flamingos. The last few chapters don’t even involve Brett and Tony, but are told from Jacob and Maxie’s POVs.
I also didn’t like Tony coming to see Brett as a doctor and initiating sex while Brett’s working. And Brett was pretty much an asshole to Jacob. And Tony taking Brett’s phone and reading his texts after Brett asking for his phone back and telling him not to read was also an asshole move.
The pacing in this was horrible. Brett and Tony got over their issues fast enough to star fucking like bunnies. And maybe if they spent 10% as much communicating as they did having second, this might have been enjoyable. Instead, they’d rather just not talk about things and make assumptions.
I had actually thought at one point that I was nearing the end of the book, only to glance down and realize I was only 40% done. And then the next bit had far too many things crammed into it.
You have Brett and Tony working out their relationship stuff, Brett dealing with his mother, Brett helping out at the clinic, Tony with his user dead mother, his meddling sister and his emotional abusive dead husband who groomed him… but only realized this once Brett pointed it out. Then you have Devon, the closeted homophobe, Jacob, Maxie and some flamingos. The last few chapters don’t even involve Brett and Tony, but are told from Jacob and Maxie’s POVs.
I also didn’t like Tony coming to see Brett as a doctor and initiating sex while Brett’s working. And Brett was pretty much an asshole to Jacob. And Tony taking Brett’s phone and reading his texts after Brett asking for his phone back and telling him not to read was also an asshole move.
May 16, 2024
I really love this author. Such great stories and characters. I first read the Forbidden Desires series with Piper Scott and loved it so much so I read In the Pink next, and was HIGHLY disappointed that it was the only one. I would still LOVE to read more of that but I also just really enjoyed this one too.
I was particularly moved by how both of the MC were so severely impacted by things in their past, and the struggle to overcome or just be at peace with one's self. Often in this genre it's one character who's got the painful past to overcome but I don't think that's a fair representation of life. So many of us have things we're constantly struggling to deal with and I thought this was much more authentic. The thought processes were especially resonating.
Although I will say Levi was a dick and I hope the next book is not about him.
I was particularly moved by how both of the MC were so severely impacted by things in their past, and the struggle to overcome or just be at peace with one's self. Often in this genre it's one character who's got the painful past to overcome but I don't think that's a fair representation of life. So many of us have things we're constantly struggling to deal with and I thought this was much more authentic. The thought processes were especially resonating.
Although I will say Levi was a dick and I hope the next book is not about him.
November 16, 2021
I ended up liking this more the more I listened. I mean anything Michael Ferrioulo narrates is an automatic 1-click for me. Initially I did not like Brett, and to be honest he is still not my favorite. But I loved Tony, loved loved loved the small quirky town and the people in it. I especially loved the secondary characters....even Jacob lol. Maxie is now a favorite character of mine and I hope he gets a book.
November 23, 2022
I actually started with book 2 of this series (it's hilarious and I highly, highly recommend it), and while Reunion wasn't as funny (it certainly had its moments) it made up for it with swoony romance and emotional moments.
I also listened to it, and the narrator, Michael Ferraiuolo, did an amazing job with these characters and bring all the emotion and romance to life in the story.
Highly recommended.
I also listened to it, and the narrator, Michael Ferraiuolo, did an amazing job with these characters and bring all the emotion and romance to life in the story.
Highly recommended.
February 23, 2021
I thoroughly enjoy this author-narrator pairing.
The relationship between Brett and Tony has some bothersome aspects, but I liked the story as a whole.
I'm hoping a subsequent book in this series focuses on Jacob and Levi.
The relationship between Brett and Tony has some bothersome aspects, but I liked the story as a whole.
I'm hoping a subsequent book in this series focuses on Jacob and Levi.
Read
May 20, 20213.5 stars
Enjoyed the story overall, but it sometimes dragged for me. The ending was also a bit wacky, but I'm intrigued by the characters and will read the next one.
Enjoyed the story overall, but it sometimes dragged for me. The ending was also a bit wacky, but I'm intrigued by the characters and will read the next one.
May 25, 2021
The characters in this were so dramatic and over the top. They did not feel like real people to me. There was so much unnecessary drama, including an ex boyfriend coming to town to win back the MC. It was too much.
If the author other books are not filled with this much fake drama, I would try another book from them, as did like their writing style.
If the author other books are not filled with this much fake drama, I would try another book from them, as did like their writing style.
May 29, 2021
4.85⭐. Loved it! Starting the next in the series right now.
February 26, 2018
5 stars!!
Lynn Van Dorn made quite a splash in the MM genre with her debut novel Damage Control, and I am beyond thrilled that her newest novel, Reunion, is just as amazing! This book is a wonderful story about second chances, healing, and finally finding home. These characters grabbed me from the very first page of the prologue and would not let go. Seriously - I read this book in one sitting. Tony and Brett are both such compelling characters. Fifteen years after the events that destroyed them as teenagers, Tony is living back home in their hometown of Oleander, Florida. He is going through life sad, lonely, heartbroken, and also a bit broken in other ways. God, Tony broke my heart into a million pieces over and over again throughout the book. I just wanted to make everything better for him instantly. When Brett, now a doctor and living hours away, returns to Oleander to help his mother, the men suddenly find their lives colliding once again and quite unexpectedly. Their journey is painful and emotional and angry at times, but it is also sweet, loving, and SEXY AS HELL. I mean, wow. Tony and Brett have undeniably explosive chemistry, and boy, does it make for some seriously steamy romps! It is so gratifying to see Tony and Brett finally get their HEA after everything they have been through. It was hard to read about their pasts at times, especially with certain characters - namely homophobic jerk Devon, Tony’s mother, and Greg (oh, Tony..) - but there are also a lot of lighthearted and hilarious moments that balance the story well.
Betty and Armand are probably my favorite geographically misplaced side characters (you’ll see, they are pretty great) but I also really love Maxie and Levi. Maxie stole the show for a bit at the end and I really, REALLY want more about him. I highly recommend this novel to, well.. everyone. I cannot wait for more from Oleander and Lynn Van Dorn in the future!
Lynn Van Dorn made quite a splash in the MM genre with her debut novel Damage Control, and I am beyond thrilled that her newest novel, Reunion, is just as amazing! This book is a wonderful story about second chances, healing, and finally finding home. These characters grabbed me from the very first page of the prologue and would not let go. Seriously - I read this book in one sitting. Tony and Brett are both such compelling characters. Fifteen years after the events that destroyed them as teenagers, Tony is living back home in their hometown of Oleander, Florida. He is going through life sad, lonely, heartbroken, and also a bit broken in other ways. God, Tony broke my heart into a million pieces over and over again throughout the book. I just wanted to make everything better for him instantly. When Brett, now a doctor and living hours away, returns to Oleander to help his mother, the men suddenly find their lives colliding once again and quite unexpectedly. Their journey is painful and emotional and angry at times, but it is also sweet, loving, and SEXY AS HELL. I mean, wow. Tony and Brett have undeniably explosive chemistry, and boy, does it make for some seriously steamy romps! It is so gratifying to see Tony and Brett finally get their HEA after everything they have been through. It was hard to read about their pasts at times, especially with certain characters - namely homophobic jerk Devon, Tony’s mother, and Greg (oh, Tony..) - but there are also a lot of lighthearted and hilarious moments that balance the story well.
Betty and Armand are probably my favorite geographically misplaced side characters (you’ll see, they are pretty great) but I also really love Maxie and Levi. Maxie stole the show for a bit at the end and I really, REALLY want more about him. I highly recommend this novel to, well.. everyone. I cannot wait for more from Oleander and Lynn Van Dorn in the future!
July 7, 2018
I had such a heavy dislike for both main characters and their dynamic, I came very close to not finishing this at several points. They both, at different times, went from door mat in one scene, to aggressive selfishness or shallowness in another and then back again a short time later. The complete and utter refusal to communicate at an even tiny, basic level let alone on bigger, more important things, just drove me up the wall. As soon as you thought you had learned enough to know a character, something random and contradictory to their previous personality would be tossed in, making the characters seem nearly unstable. It wasn't cute or sweet or even, and this is what I think the author attempted, showing their "brokenness". Most of the time it all just didn't make sense. And sorry, but the level of actual hate in this also does not come across as sweet or cute. It damn near comes across as ugly and abusive.
March 7, 2018
What an interesting cast of characters, including a couple of charming flamingos. Most of this story was absolutely great. Angsty, with lots of hot and sweaty sexy man on man time. My main hang up in the storyline was with how the main characters originally split up. Without going into details. It wasn’t a deal breaker. Once I overlooked that point, I was able to just read and enjoy it.
This is my first book by this author. I look forward to reading more.
Edited to say; I went looking for more from this author and realized once I saw the cover, I have read this author’s previous book Damage Control. I read so much I didn’t recognize the name. Still looking forward to more.
This is my first book by this author. I look forward to reading more.
Edited to say; I went looking for more from this author and realized once I saw the cover, I have read this author’s previous book Damage Control. I read so much I didn’t recognize the name. Still looking forward to more.
November 2, 2020
I still love Van Dorn's writing, and I enjoyed at least half of this book.
Unfortunately it's very very long, and nothing's really happening apart from two men pining for each other.
Unfortunately it's very very long, and nothing's really happening apart from two men pining for each other.
June 11, 2021
First book by this author. Didn't love it, but it was interesting and entertaining enough to give 2 stars. I have had a string of very uncharacteristic (for me) DNF's lately and I was actually inclined to give it 3 stars, but I had to pull back after I wrote my review.
Firstly, LOVE the cover. That is one ethereal looking being and fits the written character really well.
I enjoyed the two MC's as a couple and enjoyed the story from that aspect. There are, however, many things that irked me:
The "not to be mentioned" Event in the past that caused them to split up as teenagers (although on the cusp of adulthood) wasn't handled well. It was hard to believe that Tony would want to cajole Brett into an uncomfortable situation, much less could do so. I'm always amazed at how selfish extroverts can be in these instances - if it's fun for me, I know it will be fun for you too. Only not. And seriously, Tony should have understood that about Brett and honored it. We're led to believe that Tony, "despite his gruff exterior", is a basically a sensitive person and lives and breathes for Brett, but he would have been oblivious to how uncomfortable Brett would've been even just being at a party.
Anyway, the Event occurs at this party, and we go years and years before either of the MC's knew what actually happened to each other that night. That seems impossible. Both of them had life-changing, serious, drastic issues and I simply can't buy that one or the other wouldn't have found out some details - especially since it happened in a town predicated on everybody knowing everybody else's business and living in each other's pockets. Brett moved away, but Tony came back. He would have found out at some point.
So Brett comes back to town and Tony is brought back into his life in a typical "meet cute" scenario. I didn't mind the concept, but their interaction during this intital reintroduction was really weird and emotionally insubstantive. It took me awhile to realize that they actually DID recognize each other. Very odd.
Moving along, when Brett did tell Tony about what happened That Night, Tony's reaction was . . . pretty low on the emotional scale. I think he got more upset about what happened to Betty - strange.
Now let's get to Jacob. He comes into the story at the beginning and we are led to believe that he is positively pointless and useless and the center of his own universe. Umm, remind me how Brett would have been drawn to having a full-blown relationship with such a person? It didn't make sense. Petulant, pouty, immersed in his own existence - hard to believe Brett would've stayed with this guy for a NY minute beyond the sex. A fling, sure. A relationship, no. Then Jacob is "reintroduced" towards the end in a manner that is meant to create tension between Brett and Tony. Tony reads entire volumes of invalid information into Jacob's mere presence and so we have that last-minute hurdle for the two MC's to get over. This was really formulaic and unsatisfying.
Another reviewer rightly pointed out that there was insufficient talking between the characters and way too much sex as in, OK, I get it, these two are going to go at it every waking minute they're together and that makes for a solid relationship in what way? The way I feel a connection between characters is through both verbal and physical communication. I felt the physical connection clearly. The emotional connection still feels iffy.
I believe the writer could've made more of this story - there are many clever touches, such as Betty and Armand, and the chapter titles (I love funny chapter titles) and the scene-setting touches. Unfortunately, that clever humor never seemed to come across in the story itself.
Typically (if I really love a set of MC's), it's very hard for me when a book ends and you know that couple's story is over - especially when it's a book that is part of a series. It's hard for me to switch gears to other MC's in terms of emotional investment. That being said, based on the last few chapters, Jacob actually came across as intriguing enough for me to want to know more. And Maxie is the perfect vessel for clever humor, so I can see a story with Maxie and oh, let's say somebody's grandson.
Firstly, LOVE the cover. That is one ethereal looking being and fits the written character really well.
I enjoyed the two MC's as a couple and enjoyed the story from that aspect. There are, however, many things that irked me:
The "not to be mentioned" Event in the past that caused them to split up as teenagers (although on the cusp of adulthood) wasn't handled well. It was hard to believe that Tony would want to cajole Brett into an uncomfortable situation, much less could do so. I'm always amazed at how selfish extroverts can be in these instances - if it's fun for me, I know it will be fun for you too. Only not. And seriously, Tony should have understood that about Brett and honored it. We're led to believe that Tony, "despite his gruff exterior", is a basically a sensitive person and lives and breathes for Brett, but he would have been oblivious to how uncomfortable Brett would've been even just being at a party.
Anyway, the Event occurs at this party, and we go years and years before either of the MC's knew what actually happened to each other that night. That seems impossible. Both of them had life-changing, serious, drastic issues and I simply can't buy that one or the other wouldn't have found out some details - especially since it happened in a town predicated on everybody knowing everybody else's business and living in each other's pockets. Brett moved away, but Tony came back. He would have found out at some point.
So Brett comes back to town and Tony is brought back into his life in a typical "meet cute" scenario. I didn't mind the concept, but their interaction during this intital reintroduction was really weird and emotionally insubstantive. It took me awhile to realize that they actually DID recognize each other. Very odd.
Moving along, when Brett did tell Tony about what happened That Night, Tony's reaction was . . . pretty low on the emotional scale. I think he got more upset about what happened to Betty - strange.
Now let's get to Jacob. He comes into the story at the beginning and we are led to believe that he is positively pointless and useless and the center of his own universe. Umm, remind me how Brett would have been drawn to having a full-blown relationship with such a person? It didn't make sense. Petulant, pouty, immersed in his own existence - hard to believe Brett would've stayed with this guy for a NY minute beyond the sex. A fling, sure. A relationship, no. Then Jacob is "reintroduced" towards the end in a manner that is meant to create tension between Brett and Tony. Tony reads entire volumes of invalid information into Jacob's mere presence and so we have that last-minute hurdle for the two MC's to get over. This was really formulaic and unsatisfying.
Another reviewer rightly pointed out that there was insufficient talking between the characters and way too much sex as in, OK, I get it, these two are going to go at it every waking minute they're together and that makes for a solid relationship in what way? The way I feel a connection between characters is through both verbal and physical communication. I felt the physical connection clearly. The emotional connection still feels iffy.
I believe the writer could've made more of this story - there are many clever touches, such as Betty and Armand, and the chapter titles (I love funny chapter titles) and the scene-setting touches. Unfortunately, that clever humor never seemed to come across in the story itself.
Typically (if I really love a set of MC's), it's very hard for me when a book ends and you know that couple's story is over - especially when it's a book that is part of a series. It's hard for me to switch gears to other MC's in terms of emotional investment. That being said, based on the last few chapters, Jacob actually came across as intriguing enough for me to want to know more. And Maxie is the perfect vessel for clever humor, so I can see a story with Maxie and oh, let's say somebody's grandson.
October 20, 2022
This has bits of everything.
This was a great read that takes you all over the place as a reader. When I says all the feels, I mean it even more for this one. I laughed, I cried, I cringed, I fanned myself at the heat. There were ominous moments that kept me tense because you just knew things had happened and were afraid of how bad it had been for both Brett and Tony. It was so easy to invest in these characters and their story and want the best for their relationship. They do get a happily ever after, but it's a mess getting there and that makes it feel real and their story really seems like it will continue until they're old and hopefully die, happily, together.
That said, the story isn't perfect. It's very well written without any grammar issues that caught my eye, but it deals with heavy issues. The hate attacks Brett suffered were horrible, but thankfully not overemphasized or dwelt on. I kept reading through this waiting for Devon to get his comeuppance and that ended up being quite a letdown for me because I wanted something MORE than what happened. The idea that he stays a cop is unacceptable to me, but maybe more will happen in the sequel to address that. As for Tony, my heart broke for him so many times. That he never realized the imbalance of his relationship with Greg and that his loved ones never saw it was crushing to me. He really was 33 going on 19 and that's because a person in a position of power found Tony when he was vulnerable and made him dependent upon them. Not letting Tony get a job outside the home or finish college then molding him into what Greg wanted without even letting Tony think about what he wanted or needed because Greg loved him and was taking care of him. I appreciate the author pointing out this form of abuse and the damage it does when the controlling partner leaves or dies. The way that Tony was suddenly left adrift and unprepared to deal with life is so common with women, but rarely seen or considered with men. It's a negative consequence of being "kept" that no one thinks of until their keeper decides to end the fantasy or harsh reality, like Greg's sudden death, shatters everything. I think that was all handled very well by the author and it struck a very personal chord with me.
Finally, I have to point out a trope that I LOATHE being using in a way that I liked here. The horrid ex trope, be that ex a male or female, is something that I will rip to shreds in my reviews of stories that often only get 1 star. I hate that trope more each time I find myself reading it. Jacob, though, was definitely written with the plan for him to have his own story, because he was a bit annoying, but redeemable and the second he popped back up toward the end of the story, I knew he'd be perfect for Levi. Plus he never tried to make trouble for Brett and Tony, so the trope wasn't used in the ways that I hate. Plus, his reappearance brought Maxie into the story and I immediately started cheering for Maxie to go do his worst with Devon. Again, that bit was disappointing, but I remain hopeful that more will happen in the next installment.
That all said, this was a great and engrossing read for me. So many of the characters resonated with me. So many of them were memorable and left a mark, like the flamingos Armand and Betty - I went through so many tissues over that storyline alone. It was a richly developed world that I was drawn into here. So much more than just a second chance romance between Brett and Tony and I really loved that.
This was a great read that takes you all over the place as a reader. When I says all the feels, I mean it even more for this one. I laughed, I cried, I cringed, I fanned myself at the heat. There were ominous moments that kept me tense because you just knew things had happened and were afraid of how bad it had been for both Brett and Tony. It was so easy to invest in these characters and their story and want the best for their relationship. They do get a happily ever after, but it's a mess getting there and that makes it feel real and their story really seems like it will continue until they're old and hopefully die, happily, together.
That said, the story isn't perfect. It's very well written without any grammar issues that caught my eye, but it deals with heavy issues. The hate attacks Brett suffered were horrible, but thankfully not overemphasized or dwelt on. I kept reading through this waiting for Devon to get his comeuppance and that ended up being quite a letdown for me because I wanted something MORE than what happened. The idea that he stays a cop is unacceptable to me, but maybe more will happen in the sequel to address that. As for Tony, my heart broke for him so many times. That he never realized the imbalance of his relationship with Greg and that his loved ones never saw it was crushing to me. He really was 33 going on 19 and that's because a person in a position of power found Tony when he was vulnerable and made him dependent upon them. Not letting Tony get a job outside the home or finish college then molding him into what Greg wanted without even letting Tony think about what he wanted or needed because Greg loved him and was taking care of him. I appreciate the author pointing out this form of abuse and the damage it does when the controlling partner leaves or dies. The way that Tony was suddenly left adrift and unprepared to deal with life is so common with women, but rarely seen or considered with men. It's a negative consequence of being "kept" that no one thinks of until their keeper decides to end the fantasy or harsh reality, like Greg's sudden death, shatters everything. I think that was all handled very well by the author and it struck a very personal chord with me.
Finally, I have to point out a trope that I LOATHE being using in a way that I liked here. The horrid ex trope, be that ex a male or female, is something that I will rip to shreds in my reviews of stories that often only get 1 star. I hate that trope more each time I find myself reading it. Jacob, though, was definitely written with the plan for him to have his own story, because he was a bit annoying, but redeemable and the second he popped back up toward the end of the story, I knew he'd be perfect for Levi. Plus he never tried to make trouble for Brett and Tony, so the trope wasn't used in the ways that I hate. Plus, his reappearance brought Maxie into the story and I immediately started cheering for Maxie to go do his worst with Devon. Again, that bit was disappointing, but I remain hopeful that more will happen in the next installment.
That all said, this was a great and engrossing read for me. So many of the characters resonated with me. So many of them were memorable and left a mark, like the flamingos Armand and Betty - I went through so many tissues over that storyline alone. It was a richly developed world that I was drawn into here. So much more than just a second chance romance between Brett and Tony and I really loved that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2021
After listening to it the first time, I felt disappointed, since some of my absolute favorites are Lynn's "Royally Screwed" and "Damage Control"( I can listen to those again and again) , this title felt somewhat similar, but not quite, not so "loud", if you will.
BUT....
BUT....
I just could not stop thinking about it. So I listened to it again. And slowly it unraveled to me. It's true it's a lot more modest in setting, than the two aforementioned books, and my initial disappointment stemmed from my perception of the initial conflict, which, if you compare, seemed contrived, unreasonable, and just all around disappointing. And you know what? In life, most conflicts are. Remember, they were children, when they split, and at that age people are not mature enough to evaluate such a situation objectively, even most adults are not. I've seen many relationships wither and die the same way, and if you think back, you'll probably find examples in your own history, where some trivial misunderstanding or misplaced blame broke an otherwise seemingly unbreakable bond.
We are used to see in books, media, where a coincidence of being at the right place/time creates opportunity for clearing the misunderstanding. But in reality it happens a lot less, than we actually know. In reality people pass by each other, even though they are separated by just a couple meters, or even seconds. Relationships are frail and require us to work on them, to fight for them. It made me reflect on my relationships and how I'd fought for them, the will and determination needed for that.
And here we come to the other part of the equation - the people. At first you'd think Brett is the weaker one - bullied from young age by others for being different, being gay- and Tony the more mature and emotionally stronger person, but you'd be so wrong. As we find out during the story, it's Brett that always stood-up for himself, never let the bullying and abuse break him. He has scars, but he is sure in himself, in who he is and his value, whereas Tony is the opposite. He craves to be loved and cared for, which is a result from he's not so good childhood. It does create an interesting dichotomy to their roles in bedroom, but even here it's Tony catering to Brett, since it's what he wants.
If it had been Tony in the conflict, they would not have split, because Brett would not have let him just leave. They did actually reply this same scenario at the end, and Brett fought. It was actually great to see the conflict come full cycle and their roles reversed, it just cemented the message, that you need to fight for what you want.
The did talk about abuse in the book, but in a lot of subtle ways, and in a way, that, if you think about, we all can relate in a way - to the school bullies, and disinterested parents, to people being abusive towards their partners in a myriad of different ways.
For me this was a story of everyday people, survivors, all of us. In all the small and grand ways it can manifest.
I substracted a star, because the conflict resolution for the abuser I thought went against the message, maybe - why leave him to do that shit to others? Also some of the sex scenes felt a bit much, honestly, on the edge of actual violence. Other than that loved the narration and story.
**I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
BUT....
BUT....
I just could not stop thinking about it. So I listened to it again. And slowly it unraveled to me. It's true it's a lot more modest in setting, than the two aforementioned books, and my initial disappointment stemmed from my perception of the initial conflict, which, if you compare, seemed contrived, unreasonable, and just all around disappointing. And you know what? In life, most conflicts are. Remember, they were children, when they split, and at that age people are not mature enough to evaluate such a situation objectively, even most adults are not. I've seen many relationships wither and die the same way, and if you think back, you'll probably find examples in your own history, where some trivial misunderstanding or misplaced blame broke an otherwise seemingly unbreakable bond.
We are used to see in books, media, where a coincidence of being at the right place/time creates opportunity for clearing the misunderstanding. But in reality it happens a lot less, than we actually know. In reality people pass by each other, even though they are separated by just a couple meters, or even seconds. Relationships are frail and require us to work on them, to fight for them. It made me reflect on my relationships and how I'd fought for them, the will and determination needed for that.
And here we come to the other part of the equation - the people. At first you'd think Brett is the weaker one - bullied from young age by others for being different, being gay- and Tony the more mature and emotionally stronger person, but you'd be so wrong. As we find out during the story, it's Brett that always stood-up for himself, never let the bullying and abuse break him. He has scars, but he is sure in himself, in who he is and his value, whereas Tony is the opposite. He craves to be loved and cared for, which is a result from he's not so good childhood. It does create an interesting dichotomy to their roles in bedroom, but even here it's Tony catering to Brett, since it's what he wants.
If it had been Tony in the conflict, they would not have split, because Brett would not have let him just leave. They did actually reply this same scenario at the end, and Brett fought. It was actually great to see the conflict come full cycle and their roles reversed, it just cemented the message, that you need to fight for what you want.
The did talk about abuse in the book, but in a lot of subtle ways, and in a way, that, if you think about, we all can relate in a way - to the school bullies, and disinterested parents, to people being abusive towards their partners in a myriad of different ways.
For me this was a story of everyday people, survivors, all of us. In all the small and grand ways it can manifest.
I substracted a star, because the conflict resolution for the abuser I thought went against the message, maybe - why leave him to do that shit to others? Also some of the sex scenes felt a bit much, honestly, on the edge of actual violence. Other than that loved the narration and story.
**I voluntarily listened to a free copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 26, 2021
4.5 stars
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Brett and Tony were secret boyfriends for most of high school and they’ve got plans to get out of town and go to college together and finally be out and together. But then disaster strikes and this becomes a story of first love gone horrible wrong and a night that changes the trajectory of both Brett and Tony’s lives. Decisions and assumptions made by two teenagers had far reaching consequence for both of them. And they don’t see or speak to each other again.
But life does go on regardless and both have survived that early traumatic turn at the end of high school. Brett’s become a doctor, but he has difficulty connecting with anyone in his private life. He still has trust issues and he’s not found anyone yet that has helped him over that. Tony is merely existing – a hand to mouth existence as a result of defeat after defeat and then profound loss that has left him alone at 33 without a home, a plan or much in his life beyond eeking out a meager living as a handyman back in his tiny little nowhere home town to which he has returned.
Shockingly (or should I say “schemingly”) Tony and Brett meet again after 15 years when Brett returns to town to look after his mother who has had a fall and surgery. Her house is a wreck and Brett need someone to fix a bunch of things. The nosy neighbor, Joanie, just happens to have the name of the best local guy for the job. She calls Anthony and he agrees to come to the house later. Brett is quite surprised to learn that Anthony is none other than Tony, his high school boyfriend that he’s not spoken to nor forgiven in 15 years. But Tony’s there to do a job and so he does. But neither of them has ever forgotten the other.
As Tony helps Brett with the myriad things that need fixing, they “talk” and also kind of accidentally/angrily have sex. Which leads to a whole host of other issues. Tony literally has not had sex in years. Brett has just been dumped by his boyfriend when he won’t cancel his plans to care for his mother. They are both a little bit out of control. And then of course there are the many unspoken questions and issues about what happened 15 years before. There are also things to deal with concerning what’s happened in the intervening years and how that has affected them – particularly Tony who was in a long term relationship and has suffered a grievous loss. Brett brings him back to life in many ways, but he’s not sure he can survive another loss and he has nothing to offer Brett anyway.
Brett’s time in Oleander is supposed to be finite – as long as his mother needs him – but it seems that might be a bit longer than he originally thought. After discovering the state of her house, he’s not sure she should be on her own even after her hip heals. Then there is the little issue of the nosocomial infection she picks up in the hospital 🙂 He’s also been implored to help out at the local medical practice as one of the doctors (his old doctor in fact) is in hospital as well and they are desperate for someone to step in. Reluctantly Brett agrees and it’s an eye opening experience. But he and Tony have the opportunity to spend more time together and Brett remembers all the things that he’s missed about Tony.
Tony is just as enthusiastic about his reconnection with Brett – although it’s also tinged with worry that his heart will get broken yet again. They share a lot of what’s happened in their lives since that fateful day of Brett’s 18th birthday – not a lot of it good from Tony’s side. Brett begins to see the toll and the wounds that Tony’s past has cost him. He hadn’t been aware of a lot of what Tony was going through when they were kids. Tony didn’t want to share for a number of reasons and he carried a heavy load – much of which directly impacted the end of their relationship. In addition Brett is surprised to learn the details of Tony’s long term relationship and what impact that has left on him as well. There are some recriminations and guilty feelings on Brett’s part when he learns the full truth.
When push comes to shove, Tony doesn’t think that his love will be enough for Brett. They just continue to struggle with communication and assumptions. Luckily they get some pretty big pushes from other folks who have their best interests at heart. When push comes to shove, they have to learn to listen and trust in each other.
This book really takes on a lot of issues. My hat is off to the author for handling the many challenges faced by the two main characters so well. Tony’s dysfunctional family and the things he didn’t share with Brett directly impact their teenage relationship. Brett’s self-esteem issues and constant bullying have left him assuming the worst about everyone – including his secret boyfriend. This book really examines the scars that are left from all the trauma these guys went through. And most of them are not visible, despite the pretty violent bashing Brett took. Lack of trust in not only other people but trust in their own hearts and instincts have stunted both of these men.
One of the most interesting aspects of this book was the examination of domestic abuse that doesn’t include physical violence. What becomes clear as the story moves forward is that psychological control and abuse can be just as damaging to the abuse victim. The inability to make decisions, the feelings of worthlessness, the fear of waiting for the other shoe to drop, the lack of agency and control, can lead to debilitating self-doubt and serious bouts of self-loathing and questioning of self-worth. This part of the story to me was the most heartbreaking. Despite the truth that love may be a part of the relationship, this kind of power imbalance leads to serious detrimental consequences. Beautifully and achingly written.
Luckily there are a lot of other wonderful side characters and some entertaining side plots to add some levity to what is overall a serious story. Hopefully some of these folks will continue into the next books in the series. Joanie, the busybody who runs the town is a fabulous character and I loved watching her wield her power for good 😀 Tony’s family, including his sister and stepdad along with some other high school friends provide support and humor as Tony and Brett try to get out of their own way. Brett’s mother is something else 😉 The townsfolks and the local celebrity pair also add some nice color to the story, although there are also some sad moments too. I sure we get to see Maxi again! I would name him Moxie!!
While this is a long book, there are a lot of scenes, both present and past, that are necessary to the laying of groundwork for this second chances love story. As usual, Michael Ferraiuolo does a brilliant job narrating this complex story. There are a lot of voices and even some animals 😉 and he handles them all beautifully. I highly recommend this audiobook and am anxiously waiting to see who will be in the next story in this series. Bravo!
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Brett and Tony were secret boyfriends for most of high school and they’ve got plans to get out of town and go to college together and finally be out and together. But then disaster strikes and this becomes a story of first love gone horrible wrong and a night that changes the trajectory of both Brett and Tony’s lives. Decisions and assumptions made by two teenagers had far reaching consequence for both of them. And they don’t see or speak to each other again.
But life does go on regardless and both have survived that early traumatic turn at the end of high school. Brett’s become a doctor, but he has difficulty connecting with anyone in his private life. He still has trust issues and he’s not found anyone yet that has helped him over that. Tony is merely existing – a hand to mouth existence as a result of defeat after defeat and then profound loss that has left him alone at 33 without a home, a plan or much in his life beyond eeking out a meager living as a handyman back in his tiny little nowhere home town to which he has returned.
Shockingly (or should I say “schemingly”) Tony and Brett meet again after 15 years when Brett returns to town to look after his mother who has had a fall and surgery. Her house is a wreck and Brett need someone to fix a bunch of things. The nosy neighbor, Joanie, just happens to have the name of the best local guy for the job. She calls Anthony and he agrees to come to the house later. Brett is quite surprised to learn that Anthony is none other than Tony, his high school boyfriend that he’s not spoken to nor forgiven in 15 years. But Tony’s there to do a job and so he does. But neither of them has ever forgotten the other.
As Tony helps Brett with the myriad things that need fixing, they “talk” and also kind of accidentally/angrily have sex. Which leads to a whole host of other issues. Tony literally has not had sex in years. Brett has just been dumped by his boyfriend when he won’t cancel his plans to care for his mother. They are both a little bit out of control. And then of course there are the many unspoken questions and issues about what happened 15 years before. There are also things to deal with concerning what’s happened in the intervening years and how that has affected them – particularly Tony who was in a long term relationship and has suffered a grievous loss. Brett brings him back to life in many ways, but he’s not sure he can survive another loss and he has nothing to offer Brett anyway.
Brett’s time in Oleander is supposed to be finite – as long as his mother needs him – but it seems that might be a bit longer than he originally thought. After discovering the state of her house, he’s not sure she should be on her own even after her hip heals. Then there is the little issue of the nosocomial infection she picks up in the hospital 🙂 He’s also been implored to help out at the local medical practice as one of the doctors (his old doctor in fact) is in hospital as well and they are desperate for someone to step in. Reluctantly Brett agrees and it’s an eye opening experience. But he and Tony have the opportunity to spend more time together and Brett remembers all the things that he’s missed about Tony.
Tony is just as enthusiastic about his reconnection with Brett – although it’s also tinged with worry that his heart will get broken yet again. They share a lot of what’s happened in their lives since that fateful day of Brett’s 18th birthday – not a lot of it good from Tony’s side. Brett begins to see the toll and the wounds that Tony’s past has cost him. He hadn’t been aware of a lot of what Tony was going through when they were kids. Tony didn’t want to share for a number of reasons and he carried a heavy load – much of which directly impacted the end of their relationship. In addition Brett is surprised to learn the details of Tony’s long term relationship and what impact that has left on him as well. There are some recriminations and guilty feelings on Brett’s part when he learns the full truth.
When push comes to shove, Tony doesn’t think that his love will be enough for Brett. They just continue to struggle with communication and assumptions. Luckily they get some pretty big pushes from other folks who have their best interests at heart. When push comes to shove, they have to learn to listen and trust in each other.
This book really takes on a lot of issues. My hat is off to the author for handling the many challenges faced by the two main characters so well. Tony’s dysfunctional family and the things he didn’t share with Brett directly impact their teenage relationship. Brett’s self-esteem issues and constant bullying have left him assuming the worst about everyone – including his secret boyfriend. This book really examines the scars that are left from all the trauma these guys went through. And most of them are not visible, despite the pretty violent bashing Brett took. Lack of trust in not only other people but trust in their own hearts and instincts have stunted both of these men.
One of the most interesting aspects of this book was the examination of domestic abuse that doesn’t include physical violence. What becomes clear as the story moves forward is that psychological control and abuse can be just as damaging to the abuse victim. The inability to make decisions, the feelings of worthlessness, the fear of waiting for the other shoe to drop, the lack of agency and control, can lead to debilitating self-doubt and serious bouts of self-loathing and questioning of self-worth. This part of the story to me was the most heartbreaking. Despite the truth that love may be a part of the relationship, this kind of power imbalance leads to serious detrimental consequences. Beautifully and achingly written.
Luckily there are a lot of other wonderful side characters and some entertaining side plots to add some levity to what is overall a serious story. Hopefully some of these folks will continue into the next books in the series. Joanie, the busybody who runs the town is a fabulous character and I loved watching her wield her power for good 😀 Tony’s family, including his sister and stepdad along with some other high school friends provide support and humor as Tony and Brett try to get out of their own way. Brett’s mother is something else 😉 The townsfolks and the local celebrity pair also add some nice color to the story, although there are also some sad moments too. I sure we get to see Maxi again! I would name him Moxie!!
While this is a long book, there are a lot of scenes, both present and past, that are necessary to the laying of groundwork for this second chances love story. As usual, Michael Ferraiuolo does a brilliant job narrating this complex story. There are a lot of voices and even some animals 😉 and he handles them all beautifully. I highly recommend this audiobook and am anxiously waiting to see who will be in the next story in this series. Bravo!
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