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Modern Mail Order Bride #7

Bleu, Grass, Bourbon

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The matchmaking, mail order bride lady set them up on a date with free tickets to a Vegas show. A reckless passionate night, a few sleepovers and fast forward three months later, Isiah Neary wasn't surprised by the phone call from DeShondra Leman. He knew it was coming. He expected it. Isiah just didn't expect it to be so much damned fun. Fall in love with DeShondra and Isiah, a man known as Bleu, with a fixation on perfect grass and a great glass of Bourbon as we close out the Neary Saga. Bleu, grass, bourbon, but there is so much more to this man as DeShondra finds out.

183 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 28, 2018

146 people are currently reading
47 people want to read

About the author

Olivia Gaines

136 books350 followers
Olivia is a USA Today Best Selling, Emma Award and multiple award-winning author who loves a good laugh coupled with some steam, mixed in with a man and woman finding their way past the words of "I love you." An author of contemporary romances, she writes heartwarming stories of blossoming relationships filled with heart and humor. The Technicians, The Blakemore Files, and the Modern Mail Order Brides, are one clicks for thousands of readers.

When Olivia is not writing, she enjoys quilting, playing Scrabble online against other word lovers and spending time with her family. She is an avid world traveler who writes many of the locations into her stories. Most of the time she can be found sitting quietly with pen and paper plotting more adventures in love.

Olivia lives in Hephzibah, Georgia with her husband, son, grandson and snotty evil cat, Katness Evermean.

Subscribe to her email list at http://eepurl.com/OulYf
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/olivia.gaine...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/oliviagaines
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliviawrites/

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5 stars
342 (68%)
4 stars
115 (23%)
3 stars
35 (7%)
2 stars
6 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
Profile Image for Lisa Tetting.
Author 4 books68 followers
August 30, 2018
If I had to choose one Neary brother to be my favorite I would have to go with Bleu! Don't get me wrong, I love all of the Neary men, but Bleu has 'it'.

I loved how he is all alpha male, but has no problem taking second chair to his woman. The man quit his job, packed up his life and moved just to be closer to his woman without a question or telling her. He knew what she needed and did it. A man of ACTION!

He hates misogynistic men and can decipher anyone's personality traits in 90 seconds flat. The man has no patience for BS and calls it out when he sees it. Not to mention he will knock the breath out of a sucker who disrespects his woman. Bleu is a hard working loyal man who cares about the people he works with and goes above and beyond to make sure the people he loves are taken care of. What's not to love?

Of course DeShondra is my girl. When she refused to hold Aisha/Tameka's baby with a flat out NO, I screamed. I love her for that! I love her working spirit and her ability to adapt and we things for what they are. I appreciate how welcoming she is to the Bleu's Crew band of misfits, as well as Jacob. Her generosity is unheard of. She really hooked Pookie up!

Though this wasn't the most drama filled book in the series, it was my favorite. I enjoyed the witty banter and the kookie characters Miss Gaines is known for.
Profile Image for Cherryl.
2,167 reviews1 follower
August 29, 2018
What a sweet love story

I just love Olivia's way with words. She weaves a story that is so calming to the soul. Her sense of humor keeps me chuckling throughout the book. This couple DeShondra Leman and Isaiah " Bleu" Neary are just so sweet. Their attraction to each other was strong and instant. DeShondra did not remember meeting him years ago until his brother Gabriel reminded her of the guy she met at a conference. Bleu never forgot her and had been looking for her since. She was the perfect match for him.

Olivia revealed things about the Neary family never revealed in the previous books. Josiah Neary, the boys father, is just one funny down to earth man. The brothers relationships with each other are so accurately portrayed, I felt as though I were standing there in their midst. DeAndre, DeShondra's twin was a special jackass who got what he deserved in the end as did DeShondra's ex. Even his dog Mr. Wellington abandoned him.

Even things about Maya Leman, DeShondra's mother was revealed. DeShondra finally got a better understanding why her mother did the things she did and could now appreciate her mother's gifts instead of being resentful of them.

This couple was so loving and giving that they spread their love to everyone around them and giving to them from their heart. Dr. Isaiah Neary used his doctorate degree to help those often left behind after making a single mistake. His misfits of "mechanicals" were so grateful for being given a second chance, they worked extra hard to make sure Bleu's Crew was successful. My only wish for DeShondra and Isaiah was that they would have had twins or triplets to include in their HEA instead of just one baby. Just wishful thinking. I really enjoyed reading this story and of the previous ones about the Neary brothers.
86 reviews
March 7, 2019
Fantastic

A well written book.lots of humour. I loved the family dynamics of both Deshondra and Isaiah. I liked the way the author made Deshondra strong throughout the book, even finally accepting her mother’s ways.
My only issues with this book are the typos.

Well done Olivia
3 reviews3 followers
June 21, 2022
The two stars are for Isiah Neary. I am giving nothing for Deshondra. She deserves nothing from me. Im sorry but this are my thoughts. This storyline never did it for me nor did the lead female. Selfish, snobby, prude and arrogant to the core, Deshondra didnt deserve Isiah. He in return was an angel. A true charmer and a beautiful soul. Made me wonder what he saw in her.
Her rude behaviour to Tameka did it for me. What is wrong with her? She claimed to have been her friend yet she showed no emotion at all unlike Cabrina. She knew Tameka may have gone through an ordeal yet there was no empathy. Though she showed it to Isiah's crew and Jacob. Maybe due to their connection to her husband? She chose to convey her feelings to those who matters to her or from those connected to her husband. That for me is selfish. Empathy is a feeling born from within, they cannot be created under circumstances. Her reflection on both her friends lives is uncalled for. Crying because she feared becoming like them is so childish and i swear if she had been a real person, i wouldn't mind slapping the hell out of her. She had a dream life though her mom ( i love that woman) had it rough yet, Deshondra felt ashamed from the grace her mom was piling on her. The only reason she managed to change for her mom in the end was because of what she learned about that woman. What if she didnt? She called herself strong, powerful and feels the need to be the head above everything and anyone. I am not saying thats wrong but does it need to be so vocal that you are ready to shut others out?
From the beginning she rubbed me the wrong way and if it was not for Isiah and the Nearys, i would have shut the book off. I held on thinking she might turn over a new leaf but no, instead it was Isiah who did the changes. Its baffling how he could lay low for her despite her attitude.
Enough about her. Isiah in return was a charmer. Engaging, sexy and naturally a protector, Isiah is an ideal husband and dad. He had his father and brothers to look up to and his mothers love to accept the flaws of his lady. Deshondra as Tameka said, was one lucky lady to get Isiah.
But overall, the story didnt interest me much due to Deshondra. If she had turned into a better person along the way like Cabrina did, i would have enjoyed it. I skipped most pages to get to the end so that i can carry on with the other stories.
Tameka for me was the heroine i actually rooted for among the lot and i dont regret it for one moment. But among the Nearys, i want the whole 3 brothers, lol. Is it too much to ask for?
I wished the final book would have been my closure for this series but alas, thanks to Deshondra, i didnt get mine. I really wanted the three friend, separated by a year, reconciled and became the women they never thought they'd be. I hoped for their reunion and wanted it to be special but it didnt. Instead it left a sour taste in my mouth. But im happy Aisha and Cabrina had their beautiful reunion in the second book and continued with their friendship in this book. I could not care less for their third friend.
This isnt how i wanted the Neary chapters to close. *Sigh*. But i havent got a choice, do i.

288 reviews2 followers
August 30, 2018
I am mad as heck

I had no choice but to give this book 3 stars. I have never rated at book by Olivia Gaines so low. But this book had me mad. I am sorry I understand that Deshandra is to be a be a strong independent woman but she came off to self centered and selfish. I can't see how she was friends with the other two women. She doesn't show no compassion for her friends or a care about them. She comes off to me as a woman who care more for herself then being someones mom. The things she say and do aren't things a smart person would do or say. She need her behind beaten an her attuide check. For how the hell you don't ask your mom about her life. I know i ask my mom why she became a house wife an she told me why her husband wanted her to not work. I ask my mom in high school. How is it take it take her man to tell her to ask her mom. That right there shows me a confuss person not a strong mind independent woman. I am so upset that some things she say is just silly an childish. I am mad i can't get a refund for my money. This book isn't like the others an yes u understand each character is different but Deshandra is nobody friend. I don't even see her marriage last. She seem so uncaring. Even the small things at the end don't make her a good character. Those little things like give a office and money to the Gay guy. I like Isiah an everyone else but not her an this is a first for me. Yes there was other little things she did for the guys ok. No this book didn't do it for me.
Profile Image for Michelle.
289 reviews
September 1, 2018
Blue Ribbon Story!

The final Neary brother's story and it was a treasure of a story. The poignant tale of a seasoned FBI agent and a take no prisoners of trash from anyone woman had me laughing, softly weeping and nodding my head in agreement.

Bleu is a man of few words, strong convictions, lover and collector of bourbon and deeply committed to his woman.

DeShondra is an Alpha woman and carves her path in life to suit her with no apologies. She meets her man in a bizarre encounter and things catch fire and burn steadily.

Together Bleu and DeShondra create an amazing love affair and create a home that meets all of their needs, wants and desires. They meet life's challenges while enabling others a second chance in life. There's was a story that has just the right amount of familial interference and assistance from friends and some family.

I recommend this book to everyone that wants a well written and captivating story of two Alphas in love and making it all work. In all honesty there were a few typos but they never caused me to lose the thread of the story nor did it take away from the story. Job well done Ms. Olivia!!
234 reviews1 follower
August 27, 2020
Never judge a book

I love busting stereotypes and learning unsuspected genealogy. This series especially these brothers teach us thst geography and accents do not determine character, heart, or relationships. Intimacy doesn't come on simply physical form, love at first sight does not always an instant relationship make, and every intelligent person is not in a power suit or geeky glasses.
These characters, not just the main characters as so well developed and have such an amazing sense of community, even the hit man working in tandem with the lawmen, that you want to spend time with all of them. That Olivia Gaines can jump in and tell the story from everyone's perspective and have multiple stories that span several books and flow with my ever jumping mind is pure perfection to me. The Neary family is a family I would love to have as neighbors in my mountain getaway. I think they would fit in well.
I am so glad that DaShondra got to still be DaShondra and recognize that she is all that Isaiah wants, and that he is more than she ever thought he could be. Yet, she loved him before she figured it out. This series just keeps getting deeper and more addictive.
Profile Image for Mary Pulliam.
20 reviews1 follower
March 9, 2024
Recommend

First let me say that Olivia Gaines is a great story teller. I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve read that’s authored by her. However, there is a running “theme” of haphazard proofing-reading within each read that can detract from the overall enjoyment of the read. Despite that, I definitely recommend the read to any reader who likes a woman who knows what she wants and not afraid to take chances to get it … add in a man with the same traits but isn’t afraid to adjust on the fly, and you have the makings of a great relationship.

DeShondra is a trip! (LOL) … smart, sexy, and sometimes ghetto as hell, but you can’t help but like and relate to her. She and Isaiah (misspelled throughout the book as Isiah) make an interesting couple and the beautifully described settings of their story makes me want to relocate to a farmhouse outside of Louisville.

Despite my critique of the erratic proof-reading, I highly recommend this read with 4 stars. I’m hoping the other books about Isaiah’s brothers will be as enjoyable as this one.

What I really want to know is, where can I find me a Neary?
564 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2018
On Happy Day!! 😊

I have truly enjoyed this Modern Mail Order Bride series...some more than others but Gaines is a wonderful story teller bringing forth some of the most compelling characters. I must say however that Isiah & DeShondras' story for me is the best in this series as their unfolding romance yanked on my heartstrings in the best way!
The character development is spot on and the way the relationship develops is pure bliss. And I was worried after the brief intro of them in On A Rainy Night In Georgia & Buckeye And The Babe.
I felt they were too hot & heavy..too fast & that would pretty much be the gist of their tale. I should have known better...it's Olivia Gaines after all.
Just solid storytelling with a host of supporting characters you will wish you knew for real. And you spend more time with that amazing Neary clan and even Nate from Blind Date. Oh I frikken love DeShondra & Isiah and you will also!
Bloody Well Done! 💕👍
Profile Image for Channasl.
2 reviews
September 7, 2018
Going into this book I wasn't sure that I was going to enjoy it. I have my "favorites" out of the Modern Mail Order Bride Book series , and I thought I had chosen the order of my favorite Neary brothers and their brides, however, I must say I enjoyed this one thoroughly. Granted Deshondra relationship with the other brides wasn't as close but after seeing how Aisha acted toward Cabrina in Buckeye and the Babe (Modern Mail Order Bride Book 6) by Olivia Gaines , I was glad that the author decided to separate Deshondra's character. I enjoyed the family dynamics and I love Pookie and the rest of the Bleu's Crews guys.
1,148 reviews5 followers
August 26, 2025
‘Bleu, Grass, Bourbon’ was entertaining. The amusing plot involved a mail-order bride, an ex-military man with a penchant for bourbon, humor, a baby on the way, remodeling a farmhouse, working on real estate, meeting the future in-laws, having reminders of an ex, confessions of a mom’s adversity, planning a wedding with a flamboyant designer, hearing surprising revelations in a one-on-one with the mother-in-law to be, sharing the wealth, and love. Moreover, Isaiah and DeShondra, the protagonists, worked hard to reach their HEA, but Pookie, the designer, stole the scenes. He was something else and brought comic relief in most instances. Additionally, I appreciated the author’s matter-of-fact word choices, which created a lively tone. Overall, I liked the amusing narrative.
507 reviews8 followers
September 9, 2018
"Oh! Shit just got real!"

To say I enjoyed this book the most out of the three Neary brothers books, is an understatement. I just knew from book 6 in this series that Deshondra and Isaiah's book was going to give me all the laughs, a few teary eyed moments...just all the feels! I laughed so loud at this book. I felt as if I had a different spin to the Blackmoores series. Absolutely hilarious and well written read. It is a must read especially when the Pastor said "Oh! Shit just got real!" In the church! I was d.o.a. from laughing so hard! Enjoy the read my fellow fans of Olivia Gaines!

P.S. I wish that I could give this book more than five stars. That's for darn sure!!!!
Profile Image for Courtnee Howell.
499 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2020
DeShondra Leman was not looking for love when she met Isaiah Neary. But when she finds herself pregnant for him after they’d only been dating for three months, she begins to realize that life is really only what you make of it.

Of the three Neary brothers, Isaiah’s story was the one I had really been waiting to read so I appreciate that Gaines allowed three months to pass in the timeline between Gabe’s story and this one.

Again, only minor mistakes, but I think Gaines was becoming a pro at hiding them at this point. This book is the final one in the Neary trilogy, and I believe Isaiah is only referenced in The Technicians series, so I don't think we see these characters again.

Still, it was a good end to this arc in the series.
Profile Image for Kasia.
999 reviews6 followers
May 4, 2023
Another mature story about mature characters.
What is unique and refreshing in Olivia's books is the fact that all her main characters are intelligent, skillful, creative people and their stories can be regarded more as ideas for life than romance.
Both DeShondra and Isiah are great examples of this series' head characters with their complex personalities and interesting ideas for life.
This story is more of a well-balanced description of various life choices than any adventure tale.
But still, it gives the reader a sense of serenity and contentment that maybe somewhere in this World there are people who have good ideas and know how to execute them to help others while providing a decent life for themselves and their families.
This book is precious not so much because of the story but of the message concealed within it.
615 reviews3 followers
September 13, 2018
GREAT READ

I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Isiah and Deshondra's story. This was such a great read. I loved everyone in this one. It was goog to see the rest of the family again. This story had me laughing and crying, this one was so sweet. I loved all three brothers story and I hope to see them again. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone who enjoys reading a really great story, sure there were a few typos but still a great story. Great job Olivia please keep these wonderful stories coming. Thank you. Oh love the farm house.
Profile Image for Cleo.
417 reviews
February 24, 2019
Goodness! So good!

I’ve read all of this series in order, except the last two. Something about Blue-Isiah shouted to read him first! I think I love him best out of the Neary men. Deshondra slightly rubbed me the wrong way, but she grew on me. Strong, opinionated, and powerful is what made her so admirable. She softened for Isiah and it had me rooting for their own different HEA! This a must read! Loved each character and was glad to revisit older ones. The book also touched two social issues that she wrote beautifully! Read this book!!
18 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2020
"sh!t just got REAL"!

As always Olivia delivers an Amazing Read! I had a stomach ache from all of the belly aching laugh out loud moments! Simply put she writes well developed novels with humility and laughter in each of her characters...she never disappoints NEVER! I knew there were going to be "sh$t just got REAL MOMENT" But to hear the Pastor say it took Me OUT! STOP...AND GO DOWNLOAD ALL.OF HER BOOKS! I promise you will not be disappointed! I owe her so much for the visuals and laughs she creates with all of her characters! Such an Incredible Amazing Talent!
284 reviews
January 5, 2026
Family, Love, Brotherhood!

I love this book, independent, loving, funny sista on board. She has her life in order, she’s not a stripper, she’s not broke and she’s doesn’t need rescuing. Just someone to love and receive love in return and that’s what she found in Bleu!! This isn’t your over the top family drama, sometimes I don’t want messy. Bleu was it for me, he knew what he wanted and went after it full throttle!!! I love O.G as an author, how she weaves her characters together, the family bonds. This was entertaining and just the right amount of sexy for this book.
Profile Image for Ally.
253 reviews16 followers
August 28, 2018
Love on the farm

As usual, Olivia Gaines has given us another awesome book! With her pansophic brilliance and scintillating humor she has blessed us with characters that you can’t help but love.
Isiah and DeShondra are a sweet and funny couple. Sexually they’re on fire and soon discover they’re going to be parents. Together they move forward and face personal demons, new jobs, family secrets and ex lovers to get their HEA!
529 reviews4 followers
August 31, 2018
A Very Good and Sweet Romantic Comedy

Blue, Grass, Bourbon (Modern Mail Order Bride Book 7) is a very good and sweet romantic comedy that earned a rating of four stars. This book is very humorous and entertaining as Isaiah Neary and Deshondra Leman fell in love with each other and plans to marry. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to everyone who enjoys reading very good romantic comedies.
Profile Image for Ka-Bee Brown.
346 reviews4 followers
August 31, 2018
Bleu's Knows Just What He Wants!

Wow, Mrs. Olivia you've done it again. this was an awesome story. The Neary's was a very lovable and protective bunch of brothers, who would do anything to protect & secure the women that each of them grew to love. Isaiah had the biggest maternal instincts of all, starting with his blues crew all the way down to Mr. Wellington, he just radiated A self-confidence in him self, and the people around him.
Profile Image for Julia.
248 reviews2 followers
September 6, 2018
Found her a bourbon drinking man

Isiah and DeShondra, are expecting, Isiah is ready to change careers and make DeShondra his forever. DeShondra took a bit of getting used to because she came across as having an attitude about some things including her own mother, who finally explained to her daughter, then method of her perceived madness. Isaiah and DeShondra have some interesting family members and friends.
7 reviews
May 28, 2019
Love it very engaging could not put it down was on fire and could not wait to get back reading in and between my housework loved that all the friends were bridesmaids that shows very good friendship loved every moment of the book as they say good things come for those who waits I would gladly recommends this product to my friends.

Can't to get my teeth in the next one i always visualize myself in thicket of the story as one of the characters.
2 reviews
September 13, 2020
Like the series couldn't stand the main character

I have enjoyed most of the Modern Mail Order Brides stories. I did not like DeSondra at all. I hated the relationship she had with Tameka (Aisha). She lacked compassion and was just a jerk overall. I loved Isiah and thought he could have done better. She was selfish and nasty. I honestly had trouble finishing it because I disliked her so strongly. I couldn't invest in the story. She sucked.
Profile Image for Yvonne Daniels.
2,714 reviews21 followers
October 24, 2020
So Enjoyable

WOW I love this series I will be binging all weekend and beyond..This story is absolutely magnificent with characters that are unforgettable with amazing charisma. The couple is passionate and entertaining , their chemistry burn up the pages of their story. There is drama and romance laughter and heartwarming characters. I can guarantee this a series you will absolutely enjoy . I am too happy to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Helen Williams.
283 reviews5 followers
February 5, 2022
Blue and Shondra

Well, another 5 star read. I am so loving these stories. So glad that Desh I near made it to her happy with Isiah. Loved Bleu's Crew a d that he gave them the chance to be productive citizens given their unfortunate circumstances. Hopefully that twin brother and his wife will get their lives tigether. Looking forward to a read for Monica. And of course loved the drama and the laughter. Smoochies for Pookie being marvelous. Well done. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
137 reviews
August 31, 2018
GET THIS BOOKS.

I loved e every word of this book! Me Gaines you've done it again. Isaiah was perfect, Shondra delightful. I preordered this book a looked forward to getting it then didn't want it to end. I preordered the next one so without read what is was about (I never do that). Don't like wishing my time away but come on November.
Profile Image for Bev Simon.
541 reviews6 followers
September 2, 2018
This book is a fantastic story, loved every minute of it.

The story is the last one about The Neary brothers, I loved the humour in this story and all the strong characters especially DeShondra. The fact that Isaiah met and fell in love with DeShondra years prior to them meeting in Vegas was such a lovely surprise,this is a really heartfelt story with lots of laughs.
Profile Image for Georgia Ann.
20 reviews
September 5, 2018
I want a Bleu. DeShondra needed a reality check, but Bleu made her tolerable. I love how he put her first and gave her the time to adjust (although I don't think she needed it, she just need something to give her a swift kick in the ass). I love all three of the brothers, but I love Bleu the most.
174 reviews1 follower
September 7, 2018
Very Good Read

It wasn't quite a five-star read. The character development fell flat for me. I was unable to get a visual of the heroine. I spent a lot of time trying to see her. I loved the male lead. The love scenes lacked steam. It wasn't not enough for my taste. Three and a half stars would be my rating.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews

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