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Bonfires #2
Crocus
Saying “I love you” doesn’t guarantee peace or a happy ending.
High School Principal “Larx” Larkin was pretty sure he'd hit the jackpot when Deputy Sherriff Aaron George moved in with him, merging their two families as seamlessly as the chaos around them could possibly allow.
But when Larx’s pregnant daughter comes home unexpectedly and two of Larx’s students are put in danger, their tentative beginning comes crashing down around their ears.
Larx thought he was okay with the dangers of Aaron’s job, and Aaron thought he was okay with Larx's daughter—who is not okay—but when their worst fears are almost realized, it puts their hearts and their lives to the test. Larx and Aaron have never wanted anything as badly as they want a life together. Will they be able to make it work when the world is working hard to keep them apart?
High School Principal “Larx” Larkin was pretty sure he'd hit the jackpot when Deputy Sherriff Aaron George moved in with him, merging their two families as seamlessly as the chaos around them could possibly allow.
But when Larx’s pregnant daughter comes home unexpectedly and two of Larx’s students are put in danger, their tentative beginning comes crashing down around their ears.
Larx thought he was okay with the dangers of Aaron’s job, and Aaron thought he was okay with Larx's daughter—who is not okay—but when their worst fears are almost realized, it puts their hearts and their lives to the test. Larx and Aaron have never wanted anything as badly as they want a life together. Will they be able to make it work when the world is working hard to keep them apart?
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2018
50 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Amy Lane
203 books3,487 followersAmy Lane dodges an EDJ, mothers four children, and writes the occasional book. She, her brood, and her beloved mate, Mack, live in a crumbling mortgage in Citrus Heights, California, which is riddled with spiders, cats, and more than its share of fancy and weirdness. Feel free to visit her at www.greenshill.com orwww.writerslane.blogspot.com, where she will ride the buzz of receiving your e-mail until her head swells and she can no longer leave the house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
February 29, 2024
I absolutely loved the first book in this series "Bonfire". I fell in love with Larx and Aaron on the spot. I had no idea there was gonna be a second book though, so imagine my surpise and joy when I found out !!
Let me start of by saying that you should read book 1, before you can start this one. Since the first book is freaking awesome, that shouldn't be a problem ! If you haven't yet, you should go do it now ;)
Larx and Aaron are finally living together and it seems like things have calmed down after all the events that happened in the first book. Merging their families wasn't as hard as expected. Aaron still has one daughter who doesn't ecept their relationship, but hey...you can't win them all. Kirby and Cristiana are getting along really well, and let's not forget Kellan, who has found a safe haven with this family.
A family, that is about to get even bigger, when Larx' pregnant daughter decides to move home, not knowing she is being followed by her baby daddy
It becomes clear real soon that, her being pregnant is the least they should be worried about....And things are about to get even more intens, when multiple students need saving resulting in very dangerous situations for Larx and Aaron.
To say their relationship is being tested is putting it mildy...
These two really have to work to keep it together....but they never stop believing in one another.
I really loved this one, though I have to say that I enjoyed the first book a bit more. That's probably, because I loved reading about them falling in love. The steam was a bit milder in this one, which when you read the story, you will totally understand ;)
For me there is still this "unfinished" feeling so I really hope there will be more books in this series. I will definitely read them all !!
I highly recommend both books !!!!
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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January 3, 2020
3.5 Steady Hearts - Buddy listen with LiaB!!!
I’m not one for angsty, and Amy Lane can get angsty. Thankfully, this was toned down from the first book, and I thought this was a consistent read.
The thing I appreciated the most was the mature relationship between Larx and Aaron. These men know what they want and are not afraid to communicate. They each have their own immense responsibilities, and they pull that off with aplomb, all the while juggling their blended family as well as the multiple strays they continue to take into their fold. Their relationship is a dream to read about, as it was not only sweetly sentimental but hot too. 40’s is the new 20’s, and I say *high five*!
This takes place a few months after the first book. The two families are in sync for the most part, and it’s just another day in the life of principal Larx and deputy Aaron, who continue to fix, maintain, and do good deeds in their fair town by keeping all in their care happy and safe. Despite being less anxiety inducing than the first book, this still had several challenges for Larx and Aaron to overcome. I’m not saying the real world doesn't have hate or bigotry or horrible depravity, but it just seems here a tad too extreme in how good the good people were contrasting blaringly with how bad the bad people were. At times, it was just a bit too much. However, the pros mentioned above definitely negated all my little niggles.
Narrated by Nick J. Russo, he does his typical fine job, though I must say I’m surprised by a blatant editing error. Regardless, I was very pleased, as Russo always gets the emotions just right.
So, if you’re up for a lovely continuation of Larx, Aaron, and a gaggle of “family” that boasts no less than 9 other individuals plus a loveable dog and a grandbaby on the way, then be prepared to be charmed!
I know I wouldn’t say no to more should Lane choose to continue with the love saga of Larx and Aaron, nor would I say no to any of the other side characters getting their own story for that matter! Keeping fingers crossed that Kellan and Isaiah are next!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review >/i>
I’m not one for angsty, and Amy Lane can get angsty. Thankfully, this was toned down from the first book, and I thought this was a consistent read.
The thing I appreciated the most was the mature relationship between Larx and Aaron. These men know what they want and are not afraid to communicate. They each have their own immense responsibilities, and they pull that off with aplomb, all the while juggling their blended family as well as the multiple strays they continue to take into their fold. Their relationship is a dream to read about, as it was not only sweetly sentimental but hot too. 40’s is the new 20’s, and I say *high five*!
This takes place a few months after the first book. The two families are in sync for the most part, and it’s just another day in the life of principal Larx and deputy Aaron, who continue to fix, maintain, and do good deeds in their fair town by keeping all in their care happy and safe. Despite being less anxiety inducing than the first book, this still had several challenges for Larx and Aaron to overcome. I’m not saying the real world doesn't have hate or bigotry or horrible depravity, but it just seems here a tad too extreme in how good the good people were contrasting blaringly with how bad the bad people were. At times, it was just a bit too much. However, the pros mentioned above definitely negated all my little niggles.
Narrated by Nick J. Russo, he does his typical fine job, though I must say I’m surprised by a blatant editing error. Regardless, I was very pleased, as Russo always gets the emotions just right.
So, if you’re up for a lovely continuation of Larx, Aaron, and a gaggle of “family” that boasts no less than 9 other individuals plus a loveable dog and a grandbaby on the way, then be prepared to be charmed!
I know I wouldn’t say no to more should Lane choose to continue with the love saga of Larx and Aaron, nor would I say no to any of the other side characters getting their own story for that matter! Keeping fingers crossed that Kellan and Isaiah are next!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review >/i>
July 19, 2023
Re-read July 2023
Such a great sequel to Bonfires.
------------------------------
Oh yeah, this was good!!
I’ve had this book on my TBR for what seemed like ages, because I was scared it would mess with Larx and Aaron’s HEA, but phew, it didn’t!
In this Aaron and Larx have to deal with all kind of kids in trouble. And that’s what both of them do best, helping people out. Of course that’s not without stress, and both men are pretty worn out and just want some alone time together…
This was just lovely. Aaron and Larx were still going strong and there love was just so there in every page.
And I could so sympathize with the need for some alone time with all these kids in the house. Especially when Larx just wanted to be there for Aaron when he was hurt, but couldn’t because he had all these kid emergencies to handle.
I absolutely loved reading about these guys. This was filled with all kinds of action scenes and those resulted in some lovely hurt/comfort moments when Aaron got hurt and Larx just kind of had a small meltdown.
This was just as amazing as the first book. I can’t wait to read both books again.
Such a great sequel to Bonfires.
------------------------------
Oh yeah, this was good!!
I’ve had this book on my TBR for what seemed like ages, because I was scared it would mess with Larx and Aaron’s HEA, but phew, it didn’t!
In this Aaron and Larx have to deal with all kind of kids in trouble. And that’s what both of them do best, helping people out. Of course that’s not without stress, and both men are pretty worn out and just want some alone time together…
This was just lovely. Aaron and Larx were still going strong and there love was just so there in every page.
And I could so sympathize with the need for some alone time with all these kids in the house. Especially when Larx just wanted to be there for Aaron when he was hurt, but couldn’t because he had all these kid emergencies to handle.
I absolutely loved reading about these guys. This was filled with all kinds of action scenes and those resulted in some lovely hurt/comfort moments when Aaron got hurt and Larx just kind of had a small meltdown.
This was just as amazing as the first book. I can’t wait to read both books again.
March 31, 2018
Crocus is the second book in Amy Lane's Bonfires series and finally provides Larx and Aaron a proper HEA.
Like Bonfires, there are 2 sub-plots running through the story and they intersect with both Larx's and Aaron's jobs and personal life. For such a small town, things sure do happen! On the job front, the subplot involves a student who is the possible victim of abuse at home, and another student who is a witness. And on the personal front - Larx's daughter who is pregnant and suffering from clinical depression. While there is a little bit of family drama surrounding her, the pregnancy, and the baby-daddy, Elton (though that isn't what he was called for most of the story), that drama was kept to a minimum and I liked how it played out.
The cast of secondary characters is sizable as Larx and Aaron tend to "collect" people - in Crocus, they've added Jaime, his brother Berto, and Elton to their ever growing chosen family.
For those that have concerns that their HFN from book 1 is messed with -- do not worry, that doesn't happen. Both MC's are solid throughout the story. I'm not going to say that it was all unicorns and rainbows for Larx and Aaron, because this is an Amy Lane book, after all, but she doesn't call out the Four Horsemen, or anything, and I never once felt like they might not make it through. Larx and Aaron love each other and it shows on every page they are together.
Crocus is about love and about family and about doing what's right, even when it puts you in danger. It's about discovering your inner superhero. It's about love. So much love.
Overall, I think I liked the first book just a touch better, but Crocus is a worthy addition to the series. I'm really looking forward to Kellan and Isaiah's book, now.
-----------------
ARC of Crocus was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Like Bonfires, there are 2 sub-plots running through the story and they intersect with both Larx's and Aaron's jobs and personal life. For such a small town, things sure do happen! On the job front, the subplot involves a student who is the possible victim of abuse at home, and another student who is a witness. And on the personal front - Larx's daughter who is pregnant and suffering from clinical depression. While there is a little bit of family drama surrounding her, the pregnancy, and the baby-daddy, Elton (though that isn't what he was called for most of the story), that drama was kept to a minimum and I liked how it played out.
The cast of secondary characters is sizable as Larx and Aaron tend to "collect" people - in Crocus, they've added Jaime, his brother Berto, and Elton to their ever growing chosen family.
For those that have concerns that their HFN from book 1 is messed with -- do not worry, that doesn't happen. Both MC's are solid throughout the story. I'm not going to say that it was all unicorns and rainbows for Larx and Aaron, because this is an Amy Lane book, after all, but she doesn't call out the Four Horsemen, or anything, and I never once felt like they might not make it through. Larx and Aaron love each other and it shows on every page they are together.
Crocus is about love and about family and about doing what's right, even when it puts you in danger. It's about discovering your inner superhero. It's about love. So much love.
Overall, I think I liked the first book just a touch better, but Crocus is a worthy addition to the series. I'm really looking forward to Kellan and Isaiah's book, now.
-----------------
ARC of Crocus was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2018
Fantastic!
I'm usually leery of sequels featuring an established couple, mostly because I'm afraid the author will mess with the happy ending I've already enjoyed.
Add Amy Lane, who's notorious for putting characters through emotional and angst-filled trauma, and I worried for Larx and Aaron.
But I'm happy to report that even though Larx and Aaron are put through the ringer with multiple crazy and scary things happening (Larx's daughter coming home pregnant, her baby daddy showing up, different kids needing to be saved, Aaron being hurt)...Larx and Aaron never lose sight of each other and how much they mean to one another.
I love all of these characters - they're not perfect - but they communicate and support each other.
Nick J. Russo did a fantastic job with the narration. He captures all of the emotions throughout the book without ever going over the top, provides clear, distinguishable character voices, and a terrific pace.
I know I'm loving an audiobook when I get mad every time I have to pause it!
Established couple, multiple POV, contemporary romance with medium angst, sexy times, suspense, and a very happy ending.
Recommended! ❤️
Audio copy of Crocus provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
March 29, 2018
This one's on me. I impulsively requested this book without reading the blurb thinking this might be Kellan and Isaiah's book. It's not. I liked but didn't love Bonfires, the first book in the series, because I found it too busy; too many people, too many storylines.
Crocus is even more busy than it's predecessor, so naturally I liked it less. But if you loved Bonfires, chances are you 'll like this too.
Crocus follows the life of Larx, Aaron and their family after they got together in Bonfires. There are still a lot of problems in paradise.
When I say that this book is busy, I really really mean it!
It is incredibly well-written (duh, Amy Lane), the characters very well sketched and their stories very, very moving. But...this is EVERYONE'S story and I prefer my books to be focused on the MCs. Instead, I felt that the main couple took a backseat.
In addition to all the people we knew from the previous book, Lane introduces even more people and storylines in Crocus. Olivia (Larx's daughter) suffers from depression (we even get her POV a couple of times). We have Olivia's baby daddy and the drama with his parents. We have two more new characters, Jaimie and his brother, who Larx and Aaron decide to take in. We have Candace who was abused and needs help while she escapes. Plus ALL the other kids and friends from the first book. So BUSY!
Larx says that he doesn't have a hero complex. I think he lies. And this is another thing that didn't work that well for me. I had to suspend my disbelief when the local high school principal went all Rambo because he was "taking care of the world". ALL the above, plus the fact that I found it a little bit preachy at times, made me really struggle with the book.
There were very nice moments (and sexy ones) between the main protagonists, but most times they struggled to find some time for them as a couple.
One of the things I love about Amy Lane's work is the sense of family. But here, I felt it was too much for me. I'm going with three stars, because this was a good story, just not a story for me.
Crocus is even more busy than it's predecessor, so naturally I liked it less. But if you loved Bonfires, chances are you 'll like this too.
Crocus follows the life of Larx, Aaron and their family after they got together in Bonfires. There are still a lot of problems in paradise.
When I say that this book is busy, I really really mean it!
It is incredibly well-written (duh, Amy Lane), the characters very well sketched and their stories very, very moving. But...this is EVERYONE'S story and I prefer my books to be focused on the MCs. Instead, I felt that the main couple took a backseat.
In addition to all the people we knew from the previous book, Lane introduces even more people and storylines in Crocus. Olivia (Larx's daughter) suffers from depression (we even get her POV a couple of times). We have Olivia's baby daddy and the drama with his parents. We have two more new characters, Jaimie and his brother, who Larx and Aaron decide to take in. We have Candace who was abused and needs help while she escapes. Plus ALL the other kids and friends from the first book. So BUSY!
Larx says that he doesn't have a hero complex. I think he lies. And this is another thing that didn't work that well for me. I had to suspend my disbelief when the local high school principal went all Rambo because he was "taking care of the world". ALL the above, plus the fact that I found it a little bit preachy at times, made me really struggle with the book.
There were very nice moments (and sexy ones) between the main protagonists, but most times they struggled to find some time for them as a couple.
One of the things I love about Amy Lane's work is the sense of family. But here, I felt it was too much for me. I'm going with three stars, because this was a good story, just not a story for me.
May 23, 2018
When I read Bonfires last year, it was one of my favorite books for 2017, and since it ended in a HEA, I was a little shocked to find out there was going to be a book 2, Crocus. I shouldn’t have worried at all, because I loved book 2 just as much as Bonfires.
All is well with Aaron and Larx as they live in Larx’s house with their combined family. When Larx’s pregnant daughter shows up, he knows something is not right and realizes that she is struggling. Their lives are further turned upside down one night when Larx is called to help a couple of his students, and the outcome affects everyone. Larx is struggling more than ever with the fact that Aaron’s life is in danger every day as a Sheriff’s Deputy. Will this latest incident push Larx over the edge?
Even with chaos all around, the family welcomes 3 new people into the fold. Elton, aka Wombat Willie, Olivia’s friend, and Jamie, one of Larx’s students along with his brother Berto. Each of them needs help/support, and Larx and Aaron are there with open arms.
Something tells me this may not be the last of this series. Yes, there was a HEA, but I felt some of the storylines were left open. Maybe it’s me just hoping there is more to come, because I am not ready to left this family go.
All is well with Aaron and Larx as they live in Larx’s house with their combined family. When Larx’s pregnant daughter shows up, he knows something is not right and realizes that she is struggling. Their lives are further turned upside down one night when Larx is called to help a couple of his students, and the outcome affects everyone. Larx is struggling more than ever with the fact that Aaron’s life is in danger every day as a Sheriff’s Deputy. Will this latest incident push Larx over the edge?
Even with chaos all around, the family welcomes 3 new people into the fold. Elton, aka Wombat Willie, Olivia’s friend, and Jamie, one of Larx’s students along with his brother Berto. Each of them needs help/support, and Larx and Aaron are there with open arms.
It started with a hug when someone felt bad. A soft voice when someone was afraid. A safe haven when the scary monsters threatened. It started with a touch..
Something tells me this may not be the last of this series. Yes, there was a HEA, but I felt some of the storylines were left open. Maybe it’s me just hoping there is more to come, because I am not ready to left this family go.
Buttercups, crocuses, pinks—those flowers pushed their way through snow and gave people hope for a gentler moment in time
April 19, 2018
This isn't a love story...but it is a story about love...
First off...if you haven't read 'Bonfires' you need to scoot off and do that because reading this book without that one is like going to a movie and not having popcorn...you can do it, but it's going to feel like something's missing and honestly, it's just not going to be as much fun.
Ok, so you've been warned this is one of those times when book #2 needs to follow book #1. In the first book we got to meet Deputy Aaron George and Principal Larkin (a,k.a. Larx) and see them do their adorable mating dance and cheer for them as they figured out how to make their lives mesh...kids and all.
So here we are after the events of 'Bonfires' and Larx and Aaron are together...well, there's Larx and Aaron and their combined family of 5 kids (Larx has 2 and Aaron has 3) and then we have some strays...see, Larx and Aaron are both nurturers in their own right and they're men with big hearts and a lot of love. So as we lovingly say at my house they take in strays and I'm not talking about four-legged furry ones, either...although I'm pretty sure they take in those as well. I'm talking about kids who got the short end of the stick in the life lottery...kids who's parents weren't bright enough or unselfish enough to get what being a parent really means...kids who just need someone to love and believe in them so that they can show the world what an awesome person they really are.
'Crocus' is still Larx and Aaron's story but it's a busy one and you can't have the jobs that these men have and the number of people depending on you that these men have and not have a busy life...it's neither possible nor realistic.
You can't have a big family and not have chaos and confusion...I know I came from a big family and whether it's the family you're given like mine was or the one that you've created like Aaron and Larx's the results are pretty predictable and this family that we get see here is just filled with love.
'Crocus' is about two men who are in love but like many of us they don't live in a bubble and much of what happens in their world intersects with their private life whether they want it to or not and luckily for these men love is something that the more you open up your heart and share the more you seem to have and 'Crocus' shows that in so many ways.
Larx and Aaron are already living together in a house that's packed tight not just with love but with kids...they've got Christiana, Kelsey and Kellen living with them and then there's Dozer...Larx's (read Aaron's) big blonde retriever dog. So do they really need a pregnant Olivia knocking on their door followed by Elton (Wombat Willie) and Jamie and his brother Berto...of course not but sometimes life gives to us that which we can handle and not necessarily only what we want.
I have to admit I loved this. I'm not bothered by big, noisy family type stories for me it's the familiar and having lived away from mine for a few years now for me stories like this are becoming comfort food and I'm not sure that anyone does this recipe better than Ms Lane.
For me 'Crocus' was about family and love. It's set in a small town and sure there's more going on in this small town than the usual but let's face it if there wasn't a little extra imagination added to this...well, we'd all be bored silly. Yeah, I've lived in small towns for most of my life and really there's only so much of neighbor 'A' sleeping with neighbor 'C' while neighbor 'B' gets quietly sloshed every night that one can take before 'neighbor 'D' falls asleep from the sheer boredom and repetition of it.
While Larx and Aaron both seemed to frequently have the same objective...one that, while it seemed simple enough, was often a task of monumental proportions for them to accomplish and that was simply getting some time together...alone as couple...trust me when I say while it may not have happened often when it did these two men know how to take full advantage of their time together and it as worth the wait.
We've got a world of opportunities here for what can happen next in this series and while I'm on board for pretty much anything even different MCs for the next story. I'm still hoping that no matter what we'll always get more Aaron and Larx because truthfully I'm not even close to having had my fill of these two men. I'm so enjoying having a series with 'mature' men as the MC's, men who love and have messy, busy, crazy at times overwhelming and larger than but still real lives that we get to be a part of.
From start to finish for me it never felt like the happiness that Aaron and Larx had found was at risk it was more about the reader getting to see what as individuals we already know...if you are lucky enough to get an HEA in life, then keeping it means a lot of hard work and effort, keeping it takes a lot of effort and hard work, you have to hang on to it with everything you've got...but and I'm sure that Aaron and Larx would agree with me when I say...it's worth it, so very worth it.
This one definitely gets 5 big, shiny, messy, happy family stars from me as I try to patiently wait for what comes next.
*************************
An ARC of 'Crocus' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
First off...if you haven't read 'Bonfires' you need to scoot off and do that because reading this book without that one is like going to a movie and not having popcorn...you can do it, but it's going to feel like something's missing and honestly, it's just not going to be as much fun.
Ok, so you've been warned this is one of those times when book #2 needs to follow book #1. In the first book we got to meet Deputy Aaron George and Principal Larkin (a,k.a. Larx) and see them do their adorable mating dance and cheer for them as they figured out how to make their lives mesh...kids and all.
So here we are after the events of 'Bonfires' and Larx and Aaron are together...well, there's Larx and Aaron and their combined family of 5 kids (Larx has 2 and Aaron has 3) and then we have some strays...see, Larx and Aaron are both nurturers in their own right and they're men with big hearts and a lot of love. So as we lovingly say at my house they take in strays and I'm not talking about four-legged furry ones, either...although I'm pretty sure they take in those as well. I'm talking about kids who got the short end of the stick in the life lottery...kids who's parents weren't bright enough or unselfish enough to get what being a parent really means...kids who just need someone to love and believe in them so that they can show the world what an awesome person they really are.
'Crocus' is still Larx and Aaron's story but it's a busy one and you can't have the jobs that these men have and the number of people depending on you that these men have and not have a busy life...it's neither possible nor realistic.
You can't have a big family and not have chaos and confusion...I know I came from a big family and whether it's the family you're given like mine was or the one that you've created like Aaron and Larx's the results are pretty predictable and this family that we get see here is just filled with love.
'Crocus' is about two men who are in love but like many of us they don't live in a bubble and much of what happens in their world intersects with their private life whether they want it to or not and luckily for these men love is something that the more you open up your heart and share the more you seem to have and 'Crocus' shows that in so many ways.
Larx and Aaron are already living together in a house that's packed tight not just with love but with kids...they've got Christiana, Kelsey and Kellen living with them and then there's Dozer...Larx's (read Aaron's) big blonde retriever dog. So do they really need a pregnant Olivia knocking on their door followed by Elton (Wombat Willie) and Jamie and his brother Berto...of course not but sometimes life gives to us that which we can handle and not necessarily only what we want.
I have to admit I loved this. I'm not bothered by big, noisy family type stories for me it's the familiar and having lived away from mine for a few years now for me stories like this are becoming comfort food and I'm not sure that anyone does this recipe better than Ms Lane.
For me 'Crocus' was about family and love. It's set in a small town and sure there's more going on in this small town than the usual but let's face it if there wasn't a little extra imagination added to this...well, we'd all be bored silly. Yeah, I've lived in small towns for most of my life and really there's only so much of neighbor 'A' sleeping with neighbor 'C' while neighbor 'B' gets quietly sloshed every night that one can take before 'neighbor 'D' falls asleep from the sheer boredom and repetition of it.
While Larx and Aaron both seemed to frequently have the same objective...one that, while it seemed simple enough, was often a task of monumental proportions for them to accomplish and that was simply getting some time together...alone as couple...trust me when I say while it may not have happened often when it did these two men know how to take full advantage of their time together and it as worth the wait.
We've got a world of opportunities here for what can happen next in this series and while I'm on board for pretty much anything even different MCs for the next story. I'm still hoping that no matter what we'll always get more Aaron and Larx because truthfully I'm not even close to having had my fill of these two men. I'm so enjoying having a series with 'mature' men as the MC's, men who love and have messy, busy, crazy at times overwhelming and larger than but still real lives that we get to be a part of.
From start to finish for me it never felt like the happiness that Aaron and Larx had found was at risk it was more about the reader getting to see what as individuals we already know...if you are lucky enough to get an HEA in life, then keeping it means a lot of hard work and effort, keeping it takes a lot of effort and hard work, you have to hang on to it with everything you've got...but and I'm sure that Aaron and Larx would agree with me when I say...it's worth it, so very worth it.
This one definitely gets 5 big, shiny, messy, happy family stars from me as I try to patiently wait for what comes next.
*************************
An ARC of 'Crocus' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2018
Welp. This is hard. I actually couldn't quite decide what exactly I thought at first. And...I'm still not on solid ground. #confuzled
I loved Bonfires.
I loved the...new beginnings aspect of Crocus.
Ultimately, While I'm glad I read it...I can't say I enjoyed it as I read.
It felt looooong.
Like double the length.
It felt fulllllllll.
Like everything AND the kitchen sink full.
It felt...forced.
Like it was trying too hard.
I was happy to visit Larx and Aaron again and I'm thrilled they are surviving their turbulence together. But they just had SO much to deal with. It was too much. I was either slightly confused or slightly bored and I don't recall those book vibes with the first book. One of Larx's daughter is pregnant and suffering from depression. The drama she brought to the book wasn't necessary in my opinion.
Kellan is back but we don't have ANY page time with Isaiah and I missed him. I believe their book is next and I'm on the fence if I want to continue. I'll have to wait and see.
I did like the newer additions, even though they made the secondary cast overflow.
At times I almost felt 4 stars but then I was pulled down to 2.
I'm going to settle on 3 stars and stick with a, read at your own risk assessment.
I loved Bonfires.
I loved the...new beginnings aspect of Crocus.
Ultimately, While I'm glad I read it...I can't say I enjoyed it as I read.
It felt looooong.
Like double the length.
It felt fulllllllll.
Like everything AND the kitchen sink full.
It felt...forced.
Like it was trying too hard.
I was happy to visit Larx and Aaron again and I'm thrilled they are surviving their turbulence together. But they just had SO much to deal with. It was too much. I was either slightly confused or slightly bored and I don't recall those book vibes with the first book. One of Larx's daughter is pregnant and suffering from depression. The drama she brought to the book wasn't necessary in my opinion.
Kellan is back but we don't have ANY page time with Isaiah and I missed him. I believe their book is next and I'm on the fence if I want to continue. I'll have to wait and see.
I did like the newer additions, even though they made the secondary cast overflow.
At times I almost felt 4 stars but then I was pulled down to 2.
I'm going to settle on 3 stars and stick with a, read at your own risk assessment.
May 23, 2018
I forgot how much I love Larx & Aaron , and that I still want them to adopt me !
April 17, 2018
Originally reviewed at Sinfully.
I would not recommend jumping in here without having read Bonfires, which I absolutely loved. Larx and Aaron have a very busy household and backstory and you will be completely lost as to who is who and what they are talking about. If you have read Bonfires, you’ll want to read Crocus. Picking up just a few months after that book, this one is about Larx and Aaron and their family moving forward together and facing some pretty big issues.
Just like the first story, I loved Larx and Aaron. They are a great couple and feel real. They communicate, they fight and they struggle with juggling being parents, lovers and working demanding jobs. They are both compassionate and have a hard time saying no to someone in trouble. This is especially true of Larx, who takes to heart any student having trouble. I had some issue with Larx and his hero complex, especially taking off in the middle of a crisis when his kids need him present and he could have done the job from home. I know that's in line with the character, but it just didn't sit right with me. They also need to address head-on whether Larx can handle Aaron walking into danger every time he leaves for work.
Aside from Larx and Aaron dealing with their own personal issues, there are the problems with their kids, especially Olivia, who is back from college and not doing well, and the newest member of their extended household Jaime, a student who is staying with them. Olivia's issues are serious and everyone sees what is happening, they just have trouble figuring out what to do about it. Larx wants to help, but Olivia is an adult so his options are limited, so while loving and supporting her may not be enough he has to hope that the lessons he taught her kick in at some point. Aaron’s daughter Tiffany is also a dark cloud over the household even though she doesn’t live there. Whenever she is on page she makes it miserable for everyone.
Outside of the general Amy Lane craziness that befalls the family all at once, there is a realness there. The conversations between Larx and Aaron, them trying to find time alone, trying to help their kids the best they can, keeps the story from going over the top. The kids that live with them are all a bit too good to be true, but that’s balanced out by Olivia and Tiffany who really are struggling. The relationship between Larx and Olivia is highlighted here and while it's not perfect, the bond between them is touching.
It didn’t have me as emotional as the first, but that’s only because it’s clear that the men are solidly together. That’s not to say they don’t have a lot on their plate here and aren’t dealing with some potential problems that could affect their relationship, it’s just not a full-on emotional upheaval. While there is a lot going on, there is still plenty of focus on Larx and Aaron and I ate up every moment they were together, especially their banter and the rare times they find themselves alone behind a locked door. I really am hoping there will be at least one more book here. While everyone is in a good place at the end, I would love to see things resolved between Isaiah and Kellan.
I highly recommend both Bonfires and Crocus to anyone who likes stories about couples who are grown up, raising a family and still trying to find time for love and romance.
See all my reviews for Sinfully here.
I would not recommend jumping in here without having read Bonfires, which I absolutely loved. Larx and Aaron have a very busy household and backstory and you will be completely lost as to who is who and what they are talking about. If you have read Bonfires, you’ll want to read Crocus. Picking up just a few months after that book, this one is about Larx and Aaron and their family moving forward together and facing some pretty big issues.
Just like the first story, I loved Larx and Aaron. They are a great couple and feel real. They communicate, they fight and they struggle with juggling being parents, lovers and working demanding jobs. They are both compassionate and have a hard time saying no to someone in trouble. This is especially true of Larx, who takes to heart any student having trouble. I had some issue with Larx and his hero complex, especially taking off in the middle of a crisis when his kids need him present and he could have done the job from home. I know that's in line with the character, but it just didn't sit right with me. They also need to address head-on whether Larx can handle Aaron walking into danger every time he leaves for work.
Aside from Larx and Aaron dealing with their own personal issues, there are the problems with their kids, especially Olivia, who is back from college and not doing well, and the newest member of their extended household Jaime, a student who is staying with them. Olivia's issues are serious and everyone sees what is happening, they just have trouble figuring out what to do about it. Larx wants to help, but Olivia is an adult so his options are limited, so while loving and supporting her may not be enough he has to hope that the lessons he taught her kick in at some point. Aaron’s daughter Tiffany is also a dark cloud over the household even though she doesn’t live there. Whenever she is on page she makes it miserable for everyone.
Outside of the general Amy Lane craziness that befalls the family all at once, there is a realness there. The conversations between Larx and Aaron, them trying to find time alone, trying to help their kids the best they can, keeps the story from going over the top. The kids that live with them are all a bit too good to be true, but that’s balanced out by Olivia and Tiffany who really are struggling. The relationship between Larx and Olivia is highlighted here and while it's not perfect, the bond between them is touching.
It didn’t have me as emotional as the first, but that’s only because it’s clear that the men are solidly together. That’s not to say they don’t have a lot on their plate here and aren’t dealing with some potential problems that could affect their relationship, it’s just not a full-on emotional upheaval. While there is a lot going on, there is still plenty of focus on Larx and Aaron and I ate up every moment they were together, especially their banter and the rare times they find themselves alone behind a locked door. I really am hoping there will be at least one more book here. While everyone is in a good place at the end, I would love to see things resolved between Isaiah and Kellan.
I highly recommend both Bonfires and Crocus to anyone who likes stories about couples who are grown up, raising a family and still trying to find time for love and romance.
See all my reviews for Sinfully here.
August 7, 2018
This was so so good, I loved it!
Aaron and Larx continue their journey together in this installment, and there is more drama to be had in their professional lives and personal lives.
Larx's daughter Olivia is pregnant and clinically depressed...and she went back to school, but then comes back at the start of this book.
She is the big part in this book that Larx and Aaron deal with personally - the other kids (Kirby, Kellan, Christi are doing okay int his) - but Larx, always so kind, always so good, helps out a kid Jamie and his older brother, Berto, who are living on their own and have their own trauma to deal with, and it's Jamie who calls 911 on a house next door when he heard screaming and yelling.
Turns out, a girl is being sexually and physically abused, and she goes to Larx's school, the one he is the principal of, and Aaron was called on the 911 call, so they're both embroiled in that.
When Jamie calls one night telling Larx that the girl is hiding in a shed at his and Berto's house, Larx and Aaron rush there to help, and when Aaron gets hurt, it is up to Larx to hold the fort while Aaron heals and gets better - but Aaron doesn't want him to take the burden by himself.
So there's some slight drama there, and with Olivia' baby daddy coming in to town (the baby daddy is fine, nice even, but his parents...not so much) but the best thing is that Larx and Aaron work through it together.
They are a super parent team together. Together, they get it done, even when it's exhausting and hard. But they're not doing it alone anymore, and their relationship grows throughout this book.
Larx and Aaron continues to be amazing together in this, and showed that even when you're getting on in age...a healthy libido is still there ;).
There wasn't a ton of sexytimes int his what with all they had to deal with, but what we got was good, passionate, and hot. And also sweet because they two men are so in love with each other <3
Definitely recommend this! And I have a feeling that this series could go on, which I hope it does, because it's fun and entertaining and just plain awesome :D
Aaron and Larx continue their journey together in this installment, and there is more drama to be had in their professional lives and personal lives.
Larx's daughter Olivia is pregnant and clinically depressed...and she went back to school, but then comes back at the start of this book.
She is the big part in this book that Larx and Aaron deal with personally - the other kids (Kirby, Kellan, Christi are doing okay int his) - but Larx, always so kind, always so good, helps out a kid Jamie and his older brother, Berto, who are living on their own and have their own trauma to deal with, and it's Jamie who calls 911 on a house next door when he heard screaming and yelling.
Turns out, a girl is being sexually and physically abused, and she goes to Larx's school, the one he is the principal of, and Aaron was called on the 911 call, so they're both embroiled in that.
When Jamie calls one night telling Larx that the girl is hiding in a shed at his and Berto's house, Larx and Aaron rush there to help, and when Aaron gets hurt, it is up to Larx to hold the fort while Aaron heals and gets better - but Aaron doesn't want him to take the burden by himself.
So there's some slight drama there, and with Olivia' baby daddy coming in to town (the baby daddy is fine, nice even, but his parents...not so much) but the best thing is that Larx and Aaron work through it together.
They are a super parent team together. Together, they get it done, even when it's exhausting and hard. But they're not doing it alone anymore, and their relationship grows throughout this book.
Larx and Aaron continues to be amazing together in this, and showed that even when you're getting on in age...a healthy libido is still there ;).
There wasn't a ton of sexytimes int his what with all they had to deal with, but what we got was good, passionate, and hot. And also sweet because they two men are so in love with each other <3
Definitely recommend this! And I have a feeling that this series could go on, which I hope it does, because it's fun and entertaining and just plain awesome :D
September 18, 2018
Loved the book...loved the audio...full review to follow soonish!
Ok ladies and gents I'm gonna pimp the hell outta' this audio book...
So that we're perfectly clear I love this freakin' book...I love this series and no it's not because I got the book or the audio for review...nope, nope, nope...it's because this is one hella' good story.
'Bonfires' was the first book in the series and we got to meet Deputy Sheriff Aaron George and high school principal Larx and there kids and there are a few of those Larx has 2 daughters and Aaron has 2 daughters and a son but like all good homes both men have room in their heart for more.
I love this series it's about two men...mature men who have both had to deal with life's challenges before finding what many of us hope for...that person who completes us and whom we want to go through life with...good or bad.
Now in 'Crocus' we get to see their relationship weather yet more of life's challenges. We get to see these men grow and their bond strengthens as they yet again show the strength of their bond as together they work to save a young man and his much loved and damaged brother, to help Larx's daughter deal with her own crisis while somewhere out in the cold, snowy winter night is yet another child who desperately needs to be rescued...It's going to take Aaron, Larx, the children that they've gathered in their home and their hearts along with an interesting collection of friends to juggle everything being thrown their way and make sure that nothing important gets dropped and still have time for them.
There is just so much that I love about this series...obviously I love Aaron and Larx, their amazing collection of kids...seriously they're damned near as amazing as my own...ok, I'm biased but still they're all amazing. Then there's Yoshi!!!! No not the cute green dino from the Mario game...I'm talking about Larx's VP and best friend. Aaron's boss is also pretty damned awesome. Don't get me wrong this isn't a story about perfect people it's a story about people who are trying to be the best person they can be and give back to their community...something that we all need to strive for if we're going to make the world a nicer and better place to live and best of all there's a lot of humor in these stories because sometimes you've either gotta' laugh or you're going to cry so you may as well laugh about it, put on your big boy or girl pants and get on with life, which is what Larx and Aaron do. Making them a very relatable couple.
The icing on the cake for me with this is that it's all wrapped up once again with the narrations of Nick J. Russo. I'm not sure why but lately I've been trying to check out some new narrators so I've kind of been missing Mr. Russo and this was the perfect opportunity for me to get a Nick fix and of course I couldn't pass up the opportunity to revisit 'Bonfires' before emerging myself in 'Crocus'. I've said it before and for me it's worth repeating 'I love having the same narrator for a series especially when the characters are the same from story to story. I'm not sure who's up for the next book but when it comes to the audio book if I see Nick J. Russo listed as the narrator it won't break my heart not even a little bit but then if the next book give us more Aaron and Larx that's not going to make me sad either...I just know for sure that whatever book three is I'll read it, I'll listen to it and I'll enjoy it.
Seriously if you need a happy place in your life...than you need these men and their family in your life...they are epic and awesome.
************************
An audio book of 'Crocus' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Ok ladies and gents I'm gonna pimp the hell outta' this audio book...
So that we're perfectly clear I love this freakin' book...I love this series and no it's not because I got the book or the audio for review...nope, nope, nope...it's because this is one hella' good story.
'Bonfires' was the first book in the series and we got to meet Deputy Sheriff Aaron George and high school principal Larx and there kids and there are a few of those Larx has 2 daughters and Aaron has 2 daughters and a son but like all good homes both men have room in their heart for more.
I love this series it's about two men...mature men who have both had to deal with life's challenges before finding what many of us hope for...that person who completes us and whom we want to go through life with...good or bad.
Now in 'Crocus' we get to see their relationship weather yet more of life's challenges. We get to see these men grow and their bond strengthens as they yet again show the strength of their bond as together they work to save a young man and his much loved and damaged brother, to help Larx's daughter deal with her own crisis while somewhere out in the cold, snowy winter night is yet another child who desperately needs to be rescued...It's going to take Aaron, Larx, the children that they've gathered in their home and their hearts along with an interesting collection of friends to juggle everything being thrown their way and make sure that nothing important gets dropped and still have time for them.
There is just so much that I love about this series...obviously I love Aaron and Larx, their amazing collection of kids...seriously they're damned near as amazing as my own...ok, I'm biased but still they're all amazing. Then there's Yoshi!!!! No not the cute green dino from the Mario game...I'm talking about Larx's VP and best friend. Aaron's boss is also pretty damned awesome. Don't get me wrong this isn't a story about perfect people it's a story about people who are trying to be the best person they can be and give back to their community...something that we all need to strive for if we're going to make the world a nicer and better place to live and best of all there's a lot of humor in these stories because sometimes you've either gotta' laugh or you're going to cry so you may as well laugh about it, put on your big boy or girl pants and get on with life, which is what Larx and Aaron do. Making them a very relatable couple.
The icing on the cake for me with this is that it's all wrapped up once again with the narrations of Nick J. Russo. I'm not sure why but lately I've been trying to check out some new narrators so I've kind of been missing Mr. Russo and this was the perfect opportunity for me to get a Nick fix and of course I couldn't pass up the opportunity to revisit 'Bonfires' before emerging myself in 'Crocus'. I've said it before and for me it's worth repeating 'I love having the same narrator for a series especially when the characters are the same from story to story. I'm not sure who's up for the next book but when it comes to the audio book if I see Nick J. Russo listed as the narrator it won't break my heart not even a little bit but then if the next book give us more Aaron and Larx that's not going to make me sad either...I just know for sure that whatever book three is I'll read it, I'll listen to it and I'll enjoy it.
Seriously if you need a happy place in your life...than you need these men and their family in your life...they are epic and awesome.
************************
An audio book of 'Crocus' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2018
This is the sequel to Bonfires, and they do need to be read in order. Larx and Aaron are a great couple - they talk and share, but also make mistakes and worry, and have to learn to accommodate each other's jobs and intensities. Neither one can really turn off their sense of responsibility, and they both end up over committed. The love is solid here, but there's plenty of other kinds of trouble brewing.
The mix of teens that round out their gradually blending family are good too. Olivia comes home with issues of her own that can't be solved with a hug and some good advice. Kellan is breaking his heart over Isaiah. Aaron's daughter Tiffany isn't coming round the way he'd hoped. And other young people catch Larx's open heart and Aaron's protective nature. There are some very real moments of trying to juggle different young people with conflicting needs.
The plot of this book felt even more busy than the first one, with both emotional and plot event hits coming from all quarters. I was sorry not to have a little more time with Kellan and Isaiah (although I believe we are promised their book to come.) I loved the theme of blending and creating family, although the complexities made it harder to stay really connected with so many characters. Still, I loved seeing two older guys falling further in love despite all the obstacles their busy lives can throw at them.
The mix of teens that round out their gradually blending family are good too. Olivia comes home with issues of her own that can't be solved with a hug and some good advice. Kellan is breaking his heart over Isaiah. Aaron's daughter Tiffany isn't coming round the way he'd hoped. And other young people catch Larx's open heart and Aaron's protective nature. There are some very real moments of trying to juggle different young people with conflicting needs.
The plot of this book felt even more busy than the first one, with both emotional and plot event hits coming from all quarters. I was sorry not to have a little more time with Kellan and Isaiah (although I believe we are promised their book to come.) I loved the theme of blending and creating family, although the complexities made it harder to stay really connected with so many characters. Still, I loved seeing two older guys falling further in love despite all the obstacles their busy lives can throw at them.
November 1, 2018
I fell in love with Larx, Aaron, and everyone in their extended family in the must read prequel of Amy Lane’s wonderful Bonfires series. If you did as well, then Crocus is an absolute must-read continuation. If you haven’t, start with Bonfires, because I’m not giving anything away here!
One of the all-time best storytellers, Amy Lane creates a world of gritty, realistic characters. The Larkin and George families face their mistakes and deal with the trials of living in the real world. This is the best kind of angst, and while I can always count on Amy Lane to deliver a happy ending, getting there is what it’s all about.
There are some beautiful messages in Crocus, and the one that really resonates with me is about respecting others’ problems. Everyone has their own issues to deal with, their own crosses to bear. If it’s important to you, and you’re going through it, then it counts just as much as whatever I’m dealing with. This is one directive that always bears repeating.
I can’t think of a series better suited to audio, and the highly talented Nick J. Russo brings these characters to life. Larx and Aaron go through so much in Crocus, between their playful banter, life-changing events, and the delightfully furtive sex scenes, the emotion Mr. Russo imparts truly makes the story for me.
The ending of Crocus leaves no doubt that there’s more to come, and Amy Lane promises at least two more episodes in the Bonfires series. Coming in 2019 is Sunset, which I’m hoping is a happily-ever-after for Larx and Aaron. With Kellan and Isaiah’s story to look forward to after that, I can hardly wait!
One of the all-time best storytellers, Amy Lane creates a world of gritty, realistic characters. The Larkin and George families face their mistakes and deal with the trials of living in the real world. This is the best kind of angst, and while I can always count on Amy Lane to deliver a happy ending, getting there is what it’s all about.
There are some beautiful messages in Crocus, and the one that really resonates with me is about respecting others’ problems. Everyone has their own issues to deal with, their own crosses to bear. If it’s important to you, and you’re going through it, then it counts just as much as whatever I’m dealing with. This is one directive that always bears repeating.
I can’t think of a series better suited to audio, and the highly talented Nick J. Russo brings these characters to life. Larx and Aaron go through so much in Crocus, between their playful banter, life-changing events, and the delightfully furtive sex scenes, the emotion Mr. Russo imparts truly makes the story for me.
The ending of Crocus leaves no doubt that there’s more to come, and Amy Lane promises at least two more episodes in the Bonfires series. Coming in 2019 is Sunset, which I’m hoping is a happily-ever-after for Larx and Aaron. With Kellan and Isaiah’s story to look forward to after that, I can hardly wait!
October 23, 2020
Just as drama filled (if not more so*) than the first installment.
Yes, the rush of new romance can be exciting...but to me a sequel that has the MCs in an established relationship and, despite the obstacles and trials, manages to make it work - communicating, compromising, etc. - just appeals to me. I got brainwashed by that HEA fairytale bullshit as a kid/teen and never realized how much EFFORT that takes...so I appreciate the dose of reality in my romance.
Once again, NJR nails the narration, too!
*If you read the first one and want to read this one be advised that there are some difficult topics covered here. I listened to the audio so I don't know if it comes with TWs...I hope it does because it's not in the precis.
Yes, the rush of new romance can be exciting...but to me a sequel that has the MCs in an established relationship and, despite the obstacles and trials, manages to make it work - communicating, compromising, etc. - just appeals to me. I got brainwashed by that HEA fairytale bullshit as a kid/teen and never realized how much EFFORT that takes...so I appreciate the dose of reality in my romance.
Once again, NJR nails the narration, too!
*If you read the first one and want to read this one be advised that there are some difficult topics covered here. I listened to the audio so I don't know if it comes with TWs...I hope it does because it's not in the precis.
May 22, 2018
I just love Aaron and Larx.
November 6, 2018
This was so so sooo good!
Nick J. Russo is an awesome narrator and it showed clearly with this performance. I loved every second of this audiobook and will definitely listen again and look for more books narrated by him to enjoy.
Now ,regarding the story proper, instead of the story being weaker than in Bonfires[Book #1] as is usually the case with sequels, this story, despite all the craziness within it, was much stronger. It was stronger story-wise, writing-wise and had even more solid character development (I'm looking at you Wombat Willie). It also made me laugh, tear up, seize with tension, swoon and generally made me smile like a big old sap when it ended.
Whether this was due to the story, the narrator or a combination of both, I couldn't tell. All I know is that this book hit all my buttons at all the right times. It was simply a joy to experience.
I really do hope this isn't the last we hear from the "Larkin/George and associates" clan as that would be a damn shame.
*** Review Copy Was Graciously Provided By DreamSpinner Press In Exchange For An Honest, Unbiased, Review ***
Nick J. Russo is an awesome narrator and it showed clearly with this performance. I loved every second of this audiobook and will definitely listen again and look for more books narrated by him to enjoy.
Now ,regarding the story proper, instead of the story being weaker than in Bonfires[Book #1] as is usually the case with sequels, this story, despite all the craziness within it, was much stronger. It was stronger story-wise, writing-wise and had even more solid character development (I'm looking at you Wombat Willie). It also made me laugh, tear up, seize with tension, swoon and generally made me smile like a big old sap when it ended.
Whether this was due to the story, the narrator or a combination of both, I couldn't tell. All I know is that this book hit all my buttons at all the right times. It was simply a joy to experience.
I really do hope this isn't the last we hear from the "Larkin/George and associates" clan as that would be a damn shame.
*** Review Copy Was Graciously Provided By DreamSpinner Press In Exchange For An Honest, Unbiased, Review ***
May 29, 2018
4.5 Stars!
May 9, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Crocus is the follow up to the fabulous Bonfires by Amy Lane and reconnects us with Larx and Aaron and their blended family. I loved the title because it refers to those first fragile flowers that grow underground during the winter and make the surface just as spring appears. It is a perfect metaphor for this story as these men are struggling to hold on, to make it through the chaos, and as the story develops, we see them finally getting that break where things are getting better and they have gotten past the worst of it all.
What I loved best about this book is that while we see Aaron and Larx really and truly struggling, we never once doubt the love between them. The conflict is mostly external and these guys are definitely overwhelmed and the chaos puts a strain on their relationship (and their sex life). But they are working together and supporting each other and loving each other and, as a reader, I found it incredibly rewarding to see how they manage to get through these tough times together. You can’t help but love both of these guys, as they are kind and caring and generous. They can also be stubborn and snarky and Larx, in particular, sometimes has trouble watching his temper when people threaten those he loves. So I just adore them both and love seeing their mixture of biological and makeshift family that they build and protect so fiercely. This story is just so warm and rich and I found myself really engaged with these men and their trials and successes.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Crocus is the follow up to the fabulous Bonfires by Amy Lane and reconnects us with Larx and Aaron and their blended family. I loved the title because it refers to those first fragile flowers that grow underground during the winter and make the surface just as spring appears. It is a perfect metaphor for this story as these men are struggling to hold on, to make it through the chaos, and as the story develops, we see them finally getting that break where things are getting better and they have gotten past the worst of it all.
What I loved best about this book is that while we see Aaron and Larx really and truly struggling, we never once doubt the love between them. The conflict is mostly external and these guys are definitely overwhelmed and the chaos puts a strain on their relationship (and their sex life). But they are working together and supporting each other and loving each other and, as a reader, I found it incredibly rewarding to see how they manage to get through these tough times together. You can’t help but love both of these guys, as they are kind and caring and generous. They can also be stubborn and snarky and Larx, in particular, sometimes has trouble watching his temper when people threaten those he loves. So I just adore them both and love seeing their mixture of biological and makeshift family that they build and protect so fiercely. This story is just so warm and rich and I found myself really engaged with these men and their trials and successes.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
May 2, 2018
Well despite my niggles I enjoyed this one
It was good to catch up with Aaron and Larx again and to see how the others were all getting on. Personally I loved all the branch off stories. I spent a lot of time with a tissue ready to dab at the tears that leaked often. I longed to hear more on Berto and Jaime, and would of liked to of seen the two girls settled.
I was a bit surprised at how quickly this one cut off. I'm assuming that we will get the wedding and maybe more on the branch off stories in the next book, but it still felt kind of cut short at the end.
Oh and maybe let the reader know how a names supposed to be pronounced at the start rather than 6 pages from the end
It was good to catch up with Aaron and Larx again and to see how the others were all getting on. Personally I loved all the branch off stories. I spent a lot of time with a tissue ready to dab at the tears that leaked often. I longed to hear more on Berto and Jaime, and would of liked to of seen the two girls settled.
I was a bit surprised at how quickly this one cut off. I'm assuming that we will get the wedding and maybe more on the branch off stories in the next book, but it still felt kind of cut short at the end.
Oh and maybe let the reader know how a names supposed to be pronounced at the start rather than 6 pages from the end
July 14, 2025
July 2025
there are some series I just love reading - especially when I am not in the mood for new books and stories - and this series is one of those. Aaron and Larx are just perfect
October 2021
still not sure if I love it more than the first book. Larx and Aaron are just perfect together
July 2020
I loved it maybe even more the second time around. Larx and Aaron are really enjoyable together. I loved how they worked through their problems and made it out stronger on the other side.
I would really,, really enjoy another book in this series
June 2018
I loved the first book and was really glad to see that there is a second book. and I am glad to say that the second one is as good as the first one. it was fun to read about Larx and Aaron, who were totally true to their characters as I experienced them in the first book.
I loved all the secondary characters - they make this story even better
I enjoyed every page of it and for me it could have been a bit longer. :-)
but as it is, I have high hopes that there will be a third book as there are some questions left open ... yes true, they don't need to be answered but it would be nice .... and I would love to read another book with Larx and Aaron
really, really loved it!!!
there are some series I just love reading - especially when I am not in the mood for new books and stories - and this series is one of those. Aaron and Larx are just perfect
October 2021
still not sure if I love it more than the first book. Larx and Aaron are just perfect together
July 2020
I loved it maybe even more the second time around. Larx and Aaron are really enjoyable together. I loved how they worked through their problems and made it out stronger on the other side.
I would really,, really enjoy another book in this series
June 2018
I loved the first book and was really glad to see that there is a second book. and I am glad to say that the second one is as good as the first one. it was fun to read about Larx and Aaron, who were totally true to their characters as I experienced them in the first book.
I loved all the secondary characters - they make this story even better
I enjoyed every page of it and for me it could have been a bit longer. :-)
but as it is, I have high hopes that there will be a third book as there are some questions left open ... yes true, they don't need to be answered but it would be nice .... and I would love to read another book with Larx and Aaron
really, really loved it!!!
December 6, 2018
The second part of the Bonfires series by Amy Lane does not disappoint. I really liked the first book and wasn’t sure what we would get next in the follow up to that. That being said, you really have to read book one in order to follow this one, as if not, I think you will be missing a major part of their storyline and will probably be lost and a bit confused. Also, book one is really good too, so you should really read/listen to it just for that reason - you don’t want to miss out on a great book!
Larx and Aaron finally made a home with all their kids and patched-together family and are getting into the groove of being not just fathers but lovers as well. They always put their family and kids first and I really respect them for that. They have a real down-to-earth relationship that includes actual talking and sorting things out, all the awkward moments that two people can have together, disagreements and fights. We get to see it all with them.
These guys are seriously amazing characters that seem so dang real. Aaron is a sheriff and Larx is a principal/science teacher, so they have dedicated their lives to helping others. So naturally when something happens that puts more kids in danger they just can’t help themselves, which ultimately puts them right into the face of danger.
While book one was more suspenseful, this book isn’t lacking on that front either. However, I do feel like this book was more family focused. We get to see Aaron and Larx and more on how they interact together, with issues arising with their kids, and Aaron getting hurt in the line of duty, and Larx having to hold up the fort at home. Larx's daughter, Olivia, has some major issues to deal with and work out in this book and it’s great that both men take the time to make sure that she is OK and not just avoiding what really needs to be done.
Let me also add that every single time Wombat Willy was said I could not help but giggle out loud. It is hilarious when Elton is given that nickname. The guys reinforce with all the kids that family is forever and that they should all feel safe and secure at home, all while opening Aaron’s home up to others who need a place to stay. God, I loved this story and these men, two fantastic books with the best plot and storyline throughout them.
I really recommend getting both these stories in e-book format at least, but you really cannot go wrong picking up the audio for both books as well, since the narration is wonderful too.
Nick J Russo is brilliant when it comes to narrating. I just like listening to his voice more and more with each narration I’ve heard from him. He has a really pleasant rhythm and cadence to his voice that pulls you into each story. I think he really did a fabulous job with both Bonfires and Crocus, and all the characters involved. And, there were quite a few; he gave the two main characters their own voices along with all their children, and their extended families and friends. He really did well giving us the full picture of the story overall with so much going on in each book.
*** Audiobook copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Larx and Aaron finally made a home with all their kids and patched-together family and are getting into the groove of being not just fathers but lovers as well. They always put their family and kids first and I really respect them for that. They have a real down-to-earth relationship that includes actual talking and sorting things out, all the awkward moments that two people can have together, disagreements and fights. We get to see it all with them.
These guys are seriously amazing characters that seem so dang real. Aaron is a sheriff and Larx is a principal/science teacher, so they have dedicated their lives to helping others. So naturally when something happens that puts more kids in danger they just can’t help themselves, which ultimately puts them right into the face of danger.
While book one was more suspenseful, this book isn’t lacking on that front either. However, I do feel like this book was more family focused. We get to see Aaron and Larx and more on how they interact together, with issues arising with their kids, and Aaron getting hurt in the line of duty, and Larx having to hold up the fort at home. Larx's daughter, Olivia, has some major issues to deal with and work out in this book and it’s great that both men take the time to make sure that she is OK and not just avoiding what really needs to be done.
Let me also add that every single time Wombat Willy was said I could not help but giggle out loud. It is hilarious when Elton is given that nickname. The guys reinforce with all the kids that family is forever and that they should all feel safe and secure at home, all while opening Aaron’s home up to others who need a place to stay. God, I loved this story and these men, two fantastic books with the best plot and storyline throughout them.
I really recommend getting both these stories in e-book format at least, but you really cannot go wrong picking up the audio for both books as well, since the narration is wonderful too.
Nick J Russo is brilliant when it comes to narrating. I just like listening to his voice more and more with each narration I’ve heard from him. He has a really pleasant rhythm and cadence to his voice that pulls you into each story. I think he really did a fabulous job with both Bonfires and Crocus, and all the characters involved. And, there were quite a few; he gave the two main characters their own voices along with all their children, and their extended families and friends. He really did well giving us the full picture of the story overall with so much going on in each book.
*** Audiobook copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
June 19, 2021
So much family drama but I really enjoyed this second look at Larx and Aaron after the dust settles and the real work to make a relationship between this families a happy one begins. I really liked that the author doesn't sugar coat how much work/communication and compromise a relationship takes especially when merging families and teens! There is still some action along the way, plenty of drama and a few new "adopted cousins". But through it all you can see the love between Larx and Aaron. This book deals with a lot of issues and although it doesn't dive deep with them it's enough to feel authentic. I definitely enjoyed this one and if you read the first one then I highly recommend the continuing story.
August 26, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up
I know this story is focused more on Larx and Aaron's - unexpectedly expanding - found family than it is on their romance, but I still really enjoyed it. There's a lot going on, it's true, but these two wonderful guys are at the centre of it all, and I really felt for Larx when he was being pulled in so many different directions when all he wanted to do was be with Aaron after he was injured in the line of duty. They've got so much love to give - to each other and their kids, not all of whom are biologically theirs but who are family nonetheless - and that love and their strength radiates from them as they navigate their way through a pile of difficult circumstances to make it through to the other side.
Nick J. Russo's narration is absolutely superb on all fronts - he's so good at realising all the emotions in a story, no matter how messy and complicated they are, and that he finds so many different character voices for this relatively large principal cast is simply amazing.
I know there's a third book, but sadly it's not available in audio, so I have no idea when I'll get around to it :( But this one gets a big thumbs up.
I know this story is focused more on Larx and Aaron's - unexpectedly expanding - found family than it is on their romance, but I still really enjoyed it. There's a lot going on, it's true, but these two wonderful guys are at the centre of it all, and I really felt for Larx when he was being pulled in so many different directions when all he wanted to do was be with Aaron after he was injured in the line of duty. They've got so much love to give - to each other and their kids, not all of whom are biologically theirs but who are family nonetheless - and that love and their strength radiates from them as they navigate their way through a pile of difficult circumstances to make it through to the other side.
Nick J. Russo's narration is absolutely superb on all fronts - he's so good at realising all the emotions in a story, no matter how messy and complicated they are, and that he finds so many different character voices for this relatively large principal cast is simply amazing.
I know there's a third book, but sadly it's not available in audio, so I have no idea when I'll get around to it :( But this one gets a big thumbs up.
April 10, 2018
4.5 Stars. Bonfires was a favorite for me last year and I was excited to see follow up for Larx and Aaron, since their initial romance was surrounded by chaos and had barely gotten underway. Unfortunately chaos is a way of life for these poor guys due to their various children and careers. That’s what I like the most about these characters though, mature and living life even when it comes at them full steam, in the best way they can. I enjoy all the fun and silly banter between them, their friends and all the individual quirks of the well-rounded characters. The kids do get a little too precocious at times, Aaron and Larx always seem to know just the right things to say (eventually) and even their anger is eloquent. But the entire cast in the book are the way we all wish people around us could be.
Olivia gets a couple of chapters with her POV, as the story is bookended with her struggles and punctuated by Elton, the hipster baby-daddy. There are students in danger, Aaron and Larx in danger at different times and the action is almost non-stop. The couple does manage to sneak in some quality nookie and their own quiet time. There are many doubts and fears from each man; Aaron’s job is dangerous and Larx can’t turn away from a child in need, including his own kids, no matter what age. I really like how I still felt there was realism in a tale that has somewhat over-the-top drama and angst in spades. It’s everything I expect and want from an Amy Lane novel, plus the chance to revisit a favorite couple and their family. Very much recommended.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
Olivia gets a couple of chapters with her POV, as the story is bookended with her struggles and punctuated by Elton, the hipster baby-daddy. There are students in danger, Aaron and Larx in danger at different times and the action is almost non-stop. The couple does manage to sneak in some quality nookie and their own quiet time. There are many doubts and fears from each man; Aaron’s job is dangerous and Larx can’t turn away from a child in need, including his own kids, no matter what age. I really like how I still felt there was realism in a tale that has somewhat over-the-top drama and angst in spades. It’s everything I expect and want from an Amy Lane novel, plus the chance to revisit a favorite couple and their family. Very much recommended.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
Read
May 3, 2018DNFed about 20 pages in. Don't get me wrong, I liked "Bonfires" but good golly Miss Molly, when I started "Crocus" I felt like a stranger in a strange land. Who were these people? What were all the kids' names and their situations? What was the deal with that daughter? I so desperately wanted a 2-3 paragraph recap to bring me up to speed before I delved into the title! So, I'm setting this aside for a while until I can quickly reread Bonfires and get up to speed on the background.
April 25, 2018
What a treat this one was! I LOVED Aaron and Larx in the 1st installment, the way they got together and merge their families was a pleasure to read. This one was no different only we got to see them living together FOR REAL and dealing with life. This time Aaron getting hurt and feeling "useless" while Larx was "playing the hero" and trying to manage their joined household and that without mentioning the problems their kids have and their efforts to solve what they can, together and alone.
If you haven't read the first one - Bonfires - YOU MUST. It's beautifully written second chance romance. Aaron and Larx deserve to get their HEA, both raising kids on their own, now finally finding the time for love. Both are over 40 and though their previous marriage was to women, their second chapter seems to be their true HEA. As it was in the first one when they just got to know each other, in this one also, life gets in the way of their planning. There are new kids who need to be rescued and both Aaron and Larx will do their best to offer help and there's also a personal problem at home with Larx's older daughter Livvy returning home from college not only with child but also dealing with depression. The first seems easier to deal than the second...
I loved getting more of these two and enjoyed getting the "newer" characters like Jaime and his brother Berto. They had a very sad story of their own but together they found a way to make it work, also with the help of Livvy and the father of her baby - Elton they somehow find themselves helping one another.
My only complaint is me being a little bit of a b%#(* hehe Since English isn't my native tongue I'll admit I didn't know what Crocus means.. So about half way through I looked it up and - CRINGED. I HATE this herb. I can't even stand the color. When I see it in food I'm reluctant to even consider eating it. And even though there's a perfectly good explanation for the name later on in the book I CAN'T. Oh Amy, why would you do this to me? WHY OH WHY call SUCH a beautiful book with this yellow annoying herb? ~sigh~
Rant over. Had to get it out. Sorry. I'm done now.
I can say so much more! But I really rather not! I loved this one as well as the first one. I truly hope we'll get another one as well! I can see Larx and Aaron's lives getting twisted and complex with so many more adventure and things for them to deal with but also their love and devotion for one another staying perfectly the same.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, but MUST be read after the first - wonderful - installment.
More Reviews HERE
If you haven't read the first one - Bonfires - YOU MUST. It's beautifully written second chance romance. Aaron and Larx deserve to get their HEA, both raising kids on their own, now finally finding the time for love. Both are over 40 and though their previous marriage was to women, their second chapter seems to be their true HEA. As it was in the first one when they just got to know each other, in this one also, life gets in the way of their planning. There are new kids who need to be rescued and both Aaron and Larx will do their best to offer help and there's also a personal problem at home with Larx's older daughter Livvy returning home from college not only with child but also dealing with depression. The first seems easier to deal than the second...
I loved getting more of these two and enjoyed getting the "newer" characters like Jaime and his brother Berto. They had a very sad story of their own but together they found a way to make it work, also with the help of Livvy and the father of her baby - Elton they somehow find themselves helping one another.
My only complaint is me being a little bit of a b%#(* hehe Since English isn't my native tongue I'll admit I didn't know what Crocus means.. So about half way through I looked it up and - CRINGED. I HATE this herb. I can't even stand the color. When I see it in food I'm reluctant to even consider eating it. And even though there's a perfectly good explanation for the name later on in the book I CAN'T. Oh Amy, why would you do this to me? WHY OH WHY call SUCH a beautiful book with this yellow annoying herb? ~sigh~
Rant over. Had to get it out. Sorry. I'm done now.
I can say so much more! But I really rather not! I loved this one as well as the first one. I truly hope we'll get another one as well! I can see Larx and Aaron's lives getting twisted and complex with so many more adventure and things for them to deal with but also their love and devotion for one another staying perfectly the same.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, but MUST be read after the first - wonderful - installment.
More Reviews HERE
April 18, 2018
At the end of my review for ‘Bonfires’, book one in this series, I talked about how much I loved the realism of the author’s writing and how, even though she wrote a happy ever after love story, she certainly didn’t shirk when it came to the real-life issues of mature lovers in their late forties and blending their families. ‘Crocus’ continues in that vein touching upon teenage pregnancy, mental health issues, continuing a relationship amidst a sea of family crises, and dealing with abuse in the community. With Larx being the high school principal and Aaron as a sheriff’s deputy, both of their jobs put them in the path of the best and the worst that can happen in a smaller town. It takes everything both of these men have and the strength of the love they’ve built to keep their world from imploding.
It has only been a few months since Aaron and his youngest son, Kirby, moved in with Larx and his youngest daughter, Christiana. Of course, Kellan also lives with them as he’s a student Larx and Aaron took under their wing (basically adopted and made theirs) after some bad sh*t happened to him. Aaron’s other two daughters are already out of the house and Larx’s oldest, Olivia, has just shown up at home even though she wasn’t supposed to leave school until after the end of spring semester. Olivia is pregnant, which she announced at Thanksgiving, but things aren’t going well for her and neither man knows exactly what to do. They know she’s depressed and needs to see someone but she refuses to talk about anything. Two men in a fairly new relationship, three teenagers, and now a pregnant teen all sharing a small home. Does this give the big picture of all the stressors going on at their house?
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
It has only been a few months since Aaron and his youngest son, Kirby, moved in with Larx and his youngest daughter, Christiana. Of course, Kellan also lives with them as he’s a student Larx and Aaron took under their wing (basically adopted and made theirs) after some bad sh*t happened to him. Aaron’s other two daughters are already out of the house and Larx’s oldest, Olivia, has just shown up at home even though she wasn’t supposed to leave school until after the end of spring semester. Olivia is pregnant, which she announced at Thanksgiving, but things aren’t going well for her and neither man knows exactly what to do. They know she’s depressed and needs to see someone but she refuses to talk about anything. Two men in a fairly new relationship, three teenagers, and now a pregnant teen all sharing a small home. Does this give the big picture of all the stressors going on at their house?
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
April 3, 2022
Brilliant. An excellent sequel to Bonfires. Enjoyed reading this and seeing the ever expanding family dynamics. Wish the 3rd book had materialised with the wedding and the grandchild waiting in the wings. Fingers crossed that Amy gets these characters talking to her again.
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