What do you think?
Rate this book
One Love #2
Brawn
Gattis Montgomery is down on his luck. After a tragic accident he loses his home, his business, his car, and everyone he loves. Between his days living on the streets and his nights at the local men's shelter, the downtown library becomes a necessary respite to help him maintain his sanity. Patrice King is a dream come true. She's intelligent, accomplished and beautiful! After a chance meeting, thoughts of her fuel every one of Gattis's fantasies and has him imagining a future that doesn't feel quite so bleak. But Patrice is fighting her own demons. Reeling from the death of her beloved mother and not knowing her paternity, she's not interested in a relationship with any man. When their budding friendship evolves into a passionate relationship, the two discover happily-ever-after is possible under the most daunting circumstances.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2018
28 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Fletcher Mello
130 books202 followersFor Deborah Fletcher Mello, writing is as necessary as breathing and she firmly believes that if she could not write she would cease to exist. Her first novel, TAKE ME TO HEART, earned her a 2004 Romance Slam Jam nomination for Best New Author. In 2005 she received Book of the Year and Favorite Heroine nominations for her novel THE RIGHT SIDE OF LOVE. In 2008, Deborah won the Romantic Times Reviewers Choice award for Best Series Romance for her ninth novel, TAME A WILD STALLION.
A true renaissance woman, Deborah's many career paths have included working as a retail buyer and size model for a national women's clothing chain, a finance manager for a well-known beverage organization, a sales manager for an infamous candy company, a telecommunications administrator and corporate trainer for a hotel-owning company, an art gallery director for a world-renowned artist, and an administrative consultant for multiple organizations throughout the United States. Deborah is also a licensed real estate broker and general building contractor.
Born and raised in Connecticut, Deborah maintains base camp in North Carolina but considers home to be wherever the moment moves her.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 3, 2018
I admit that when I saw the cover art my thoughts were that the author must be moving in a different direction. Then I saw a social media post in which the author mentioned that this book’s hero was homeless, and I 1-clicked right away. I was eager to read something a little different.
This was a beautifully told story about two people who suffered devastating losses on the same day (I thought that was a nice touch). Deborah Mello skillfully drew a strong bond between these two people that only strengthened with time, something very difficult to do in a book of this short length. I really felt as if I knew the parties, as well as the heroine's adolescent daughter. Although a few other things in the heroine’s life were touched on, which made her a more rounded character, the focus was never lost. This is the type of story that will stay with you long after you’ve read the last page. Bravo, Ms. Mello!
This was a beautifully told story about two people who suffered devastating losses on the same day (I thought that was a nice touch). Deborah Mello skillfully drew a strong bond between these two people that only strengthened with time, something very difficult to do in a book of this short length. I really felt as if I knew the parties, as well as the heroine's adolescent daughter. Although a few other things in the heroine’s life were touched on, which made her a more rounded character, the focus was never lost. This is the type of story that will stay with you long after you’ve read the last page. Bravo, Ms. Mello!
July 10, 2018
Brawn
I will admit that I was a little hesitant to start reading Brawn. I'm so glad that I moved past my skepticism. Gattis "Brawn" Montgomery had a family tragedy that caused him to be homeless and unemployed. A chance meeting with Patrice who was also dealing with loss as a single parent, sparked hope that had been missing. This story is a glimpse into homelessness, hopefullness and finally love. Loved how Brawn and Patrice were honest and supportive of each other. Glad her best friend was exposed and cut off!!!
I will admit that I was a little hesitant to start reading Brawn. I'm so glad that I moved past my skepticism. Gattis "Brawn" Montgomery had a family tragedy that caused him to be homeless and unemployed. A chance meeting with Patrice who was also dealing with loss as a single parent, sparked hope that had been missing. This story is a glimpse into homelessness, hopefullness and finally love. Loved how Brawn and Patrice were honest and supportive of each other. Glad her best friend was exposed and cut off!!!
June 3, 2018
This is my first book by this author.
Very sweet and short story. This story reminded me how it’s so important it is to not judge others and their situations. We have no idea what’s going on in people’s lives but it’s also important that we be there for those who are in need.
I’m glad that Brawn had a friend like Stephen in his life. He never gave up on his brother. That friendship meant a lot to me.
I was wondering where Brawn got the money to take Patrice to dinner, get her wine and flowers. I laughed out loud when I read the part when they were at the bank. I still don’t understand why Brawn would want to live that way but he needed to get through the best way he knew how.
Short, sweet and to the point.
Very sweet and short story. This story reminded me how it’s so important it is to not judge others and their situations. We have no idea what’s going on in people’s lives but it’s also important that we be there for those who are in need.
I’m glad that Brawn had a friend like Stephen in his life. He never gave up on his brother. That friendship meant a lot to me.
I was wondering where Brawn got the money to take Patrice to dinner, get her wine and flowers. I laughed out loud when I read the part when they were at the bank. I still don’t understand why Brawn would want to live that way but he needed to get through the best way he knew how.
Short, sweet and to the point.
May 2, 2018
Don't Judge
What a wonderful book! Provides a different perspective on homelessness and assumptions on why! Love and compassion can make a huge difference!
What a wonderful book! Provides a different perspective on homelessness and assumptions on why! Love and compassion can make a huge difference!
April 23, 2018
Relevant Storyline!!!
Brawn first met Patrice when life was good but the next time he met her, life had dealt him some tough blows. I really enjoyed Rochelle who was such an enjoyable character. I couldn’t stand her friend, Lila, who turned out not to be much of a friend. Ms. Mello handled a relevant topic but showed us how feelings and love can develop despite the circumstances. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella and can’t wait to see what Ms. Mello tackles next in this series.
Brawn first met Patrice when life was good but the next time he met her, life had dealt him some tough blows. I really enjoyed Rochelle who was such an enjoyable character. I couldn’t stand her friend, Lila, who turned out not to be much of a friend. Ms. Mello handled a relevant topic but showed us how feelings and love can develop despite the circumstances. I thoroughly enjoyed this novella and can’t wait to see what Ms. Mello tackles next in this series.
December 23, 2018
Gattis Montgomery is down on his luck. After a tragic accident he where he loses his home, his business, his car, and the grandfather who raised him. Everyone he loves. Between his days living on the streets and his nights at the local men's shelter, the downtown library becomes a necessary respite to help him maintain his sanity. Patrice King is a dream come true. She's intelligent, accomplished and beautiful! After a chance meeting, thoughts of her fuel every one of Gattis's fantasies and has him imagining a future that doesn't feel quite so bleak. But Patrice is fighting her own demons. Reeling from the death of her beloved mother and not knowing her paternity, and raising Rochelle who’s dad is totally uninvolved; she's not interested in a relationship with any man. When their budding friendship evolves into a passionate relationship, the two discover happily-ever-after is possible under the most daunting circumstances.
Book okay, subject matter...wow, just wow, Ms. Mello really knows how to throw you for a loop...interesting characteristics and players, bravo! Really makes you look inside yourself.
Book okay, subject matter...wow, just wow, Ms. Mello really knows how to throw you for a loop...interesting characteristics and players, bravo! Really makes you look inside yourself.
April 28, 2018
An amazing book💕
Great love story. This story is about life unexpected. We can have all these plans where we're on top of the world....when something totally unexpected happens, that knocks our life completely off balance. This is what happens to Brawn and by association Patrice. This story shows how at the most crucial or critical times true love happens. Great job Deborah Fletcher Mellon!👏👏👏
Great love story. This story is about life unexpected. We can have all these plans where we're on top of the world....when something totally unexpected happens, that knocks our life completely off balance. This is what happens to Brawn and by association Patrice. This story shows how at the most crucial or critical times true love happens. Great job Deborah Fletcher Mellon!👏👏👏
April 18, 2025
Some people write, and some people WRITE. Ms. Fletcher-Mello takes her readers on an adventure that leaves them wanting more. Brawn's story was not only heartfelt but also made you think about life in general. It made you think about how close we can become to being one step from being unhoused. Our actions can sometimes be our downfall. But I appreciate that Brawn learned from his mistakes, and although he felt less of himself, he was honest.
April 22, 2018
A beautiful love story
This short love story is so deserving of a 5 star rating. I couldn't put it down. Brawn touches so many emotions that you can't help but love it. The chemistry between them is so beautiful and sincere it left me cheering for them before I knew it. Fantastic job Deborah Mello.
This short love story is so deserving of a 5 star rating. I couldn't put it down. Brawn touches so many emotions that you can't help but love it. The chemistry between them is so beautiful and sincere it left me cheering for them before I knew it. Fantastic job Deborah Mello.
May 4, 2018
Highly recommended!
Well, good riddance to Lila. She really need a dose of a reality check when it comes to being a non judgmental friend. I just love Brawn. A man after my own heart. Thankfully Patrice listen to him beside blowing up at him. Brawn needed that listening ear 👂. Enjoyed the epilogue.
Well, good riddance to Lila. She really need a dose of a reality check when it comes to being a non judgmental friend. I just love Brawn. A man after my own heart. Thankfully Patrice listen to him beside blowing up at him. Brawn needed that listening ear 👂. Enjoyed the epilogue.
May 14, 2018
Excellent! Patrice is a caring, intelligent and accomplished woman. Gattis (Brawn) has suffered losses that cause him to be homeless. I truly think he didn't care about anything until meeting Patrice.
I adore Rochelle (Patrick's daughter), she is wise beyond her years. I couldn't stand her friend Lila.
I adore Rochelle (Patrick's daughter), she is wise beyond her years. I couldn't stand her friend Lila.
August 7, 2018
Sweet Story
This was a lovely sweet story. It did no contain any suspense or fire, but I believe it was just what I needed to slow down and enjoy pure love, compassion and unconditional acceptance.
That being said, I think the cover was inappropriate and misleading to the spirit of the book's content. It received a 4 star instead of 5 because of the cover.
This was a lovely sweet story. It did no contain any suspense or fire, but I believe it was just what I needed to slow down and enjoy pure love, compassion and unconditional acceptance.
That being said, I think the cover was inappropriate and misleading to the spirit of the book's content. It received a 4 star instead of 5 because of the cover.
January 6, 2019
Lovely story
Wonderful story, well written and touching. The story line about the two dad sound was familiar and I thought I had already read this book but that wasn't the case. Brown was so humble you had to love him and Patrice handled finding out about his situation like a grown smart woman and her daughter was delightful. Great job Ms Mello.
Wonderful story, well written and touching. The story line about the two dad sound was familiar and I thought I had already read this book but that wasn't the case. Brown was so humble you had to love him and Patrice handled finding out about his situation like a grown smart woman and her daughter was delightful. Great job Ms Mello.
February 11, 2022
Amazing. Not my usual sort of reading, but absolutely grateful I took a chance. Patrice came through and taught this old girl new tricks. The good and the bad. Deborah's insight into human nature is crystal clear and I am here for it all. What a great character-building love story.
I forgot to add... and worth every penny I paid for it,
I forgot to add... and worth every penny I paid for it,
April 20, 2018
Awesome Read!
Brawn was such an awesome and compassionate book! I throughly enjoyed it so much! I couldn’t put it down at all! I recommend everyone to read Brawn! Deborah Fletcher Mello has done it again! Such awesome storytelling!
Brawn was such an awesome and compassionate book! I throughly enjoyed it so much! I couldn’t put it down at all! I recommend everyone to read Brawn! Deborah Fletcher Mello has done it again! Such awesome storytelling!
April 22, 2018
A short story that is so real and emotional that you become a part of it. Chemistry, compassion and beautiful and loving characters. Please do yourself a favor and get BRAWN! Deborah Mello,shines again!!
May 22, 2018
Short and Sweet
What a great short story. Brawn, Patrice, and Rochelle. A teen needing a father, a man needing someone to help him climb out of the pit, and a woman who needed someone to just love her. Worth the read. Know who your do or die friends are.
What a great short story. Brawn, Patrice, and Rochelle. A teen needing a father, a man needing someone to help him climb out of the pit, and a woman who needed someone to just love her. Worth the read. Know who your do or die friends are.
May 29, 2018
Enjoyed from beginning to end
This book show that you need to get to know a person before you tell all . And when you find out a few things don’t be fast to judge a person . Listen to the whole story . Love can be found in everyone no mater what our life struggles are.
This book show that you need to get to know a person before you tell all . And when you find out a few things don’t be fast to judge a person . Listen to the whole story . Love can be found in everyone no mater what our life struggles are.
July 5, 2018
The Cover
I have to admit the cover caught my eye, but the story was exceptional. Insight into homelessness was worth the read and the main characters were great. I also like the prospective from Grace and Rochelle.
I have to admit the cover caught my eye, but the story was exceptional. Insight into homelessness was worth the read and the main characters were great. I also like the prospective from Grace and Rochelle.
April 28, 2023
A Very Good Read
Man...homelessness is a sickness for a country as wealthy as the good old USA. I am saddened every day by the people that I see. If I was rich I wouldn't think twice about remolding old buildings to house the homeless. Thank you for writing this story.
Man...homelessness is a sickness for a country as wealthy as the good old USA. I am saddened every day by the people that I see. If I was rich I wouldn't think twice about remolding old buildings to house the homeless. Thank you for writing this story.
April 20, 2018
Reasons
Brawn is a short, powerful, touching story. Me. Hello went in dealing with every day issues ,how we as humans react. Our actions can heal or totally destroy.
Brawn is a short, powerful, touching story. Me. Hello went in dealing with every day issues ,how we as humans react. Our actions can heal or totally destroy.
May 4, 2018
Great
I enjoyed this story very much. What a great love story. We are all just a tragedy or paycheck away from homelessness
I enjoyed this story very much. What a great love story. We are all just a tragedy or paycheck away from homelessness
May 11, 2018
Homeless does not mean, broke, destitute or mentally deficient. It means just that, HOMELESS.
May 14, 2018
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Brawn and Patrice are made for each other. This was a unique and heartfelt romance. I recommend this book.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Brawn and Patrice are made for each other. This was a unique and heartfelt romance. I recommend this book.
May 24, 2018
Enlightening
This was a different read. I was apprehensive to start although purchased some time ago. I thoroughly enjoy the premise and concept. Well done...
This was a different read. I was apprehensive to start although purchased some time ago. I thoroughly enjoy the premise and concept. Well done...
May 29, 2018
Second chances at life and live
I really enjoyed reading this novella. Great characters and storyline. A story of today that really makes you think of the plight of the homeless.
I really enjoyed reading this novella. Great characters and storyline. A story of today that really makes you think of the plight of the homeless.
June 5, 2018
ooh I wanted more of Brawn.
What a fascinating tale and a reminder that our circumstances can change in an instance.
What a fascinating tale and a reminder that our circumstances can change in an instance.
April 6, 2019
Brawn
This was the best shot I have read in a long time it has depth passion and true family issue's. Nothing about this story was easy I just loved it.
This was the best shot I have read in a long time it has depth passion and true family issue's. Nothing about this story was easy I just loved it.
May 26, 2021
Brawn
One love story all should read. A book to enjoy and let others know how it feels to read a great book.
One love story all should read. A book to enjoy and let others know how it feels to read a great book.
August 25, 2018
When I first saw the cover for the book, I was hesitant of reading it, feeling it might have been out of my scope due to the fact that I don't read erotica. I'm glad I was wrong. A story about a couple that meets in an odd way. there was some deception on his part, but I still enjoyed the story very much.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews