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Bootleg Springs #4
Bourbon Bliss
“I didn’t reply. I couldn’t. Seeing this man’s naked private parts had not rendered me speechless but watching him lick ice cream off his finger had.” – June Tucker
June Tucker doesn’t understand people. Numbers, data, and statistics? Those make sense. People? Not so much. In a town of Friday night fighters and moonshine-swilling line dancers, she’s the odd duck. And that suits her just fine. But her sister and friends are pairing off, and the change is unsettling.
George “GT” Thompson was at the top of his game—one of the best receivers in football. But a career-ending injury sidelined him for good. Now he’s hoping to find relief in the healing waters of this tiny West Virginia town. And maybe an idea of what life has in store for him next.
He doesn’t expect the no-nonsense girl at the hot spring, telling him he’s not supposed to be there. And pointing out his sizeable… equipment.
George is fascinated by June, with her head full of statistics and blunt honesty. He appreciates her in a way most others don’t. And when the local missing persons case takes a shocking turn, he’s by Scooby-June’s side as she digs for the truth.
He was her fantasy receiver. Now he’s her real-life boyfriend. But as their relationship heats up, June worries she’s not capable of the kind of intimacy he needs. He's convinced his campaign to get her out of her own head—to stop thinking and feel—will work. But his own crisis could drive them further apart.
June Tucker doesn’t understand people. Numbers, data, and statistics? Those make sense. People? Not so much. In a town of Friday night fighters and moonshine-swilling line dancers, she’s the odd duck. And that suits her just fine. But her sister and friends are pairing off, and the change is unsettling.
George “GT” Thompson was at the top of his game—one of the best receivers in football. But a career-ending injury sidelined him for good. Now he’s hoping to find relief in the healing waters of this tiny West Virginia town. And maybe an idea of what life has in store for him next.
He doesn’t expect the no-nonsense girl at the hot spring, telling him he’s not supposed to be there. And pointing out his sizeable… equipment.
George is fascinated by June, with her head full of statistics and blunt honesty. He appreciates her in a way most others don’t. And when the local missing persons case takes a shocking turn, he’s by Scooby-June’s side as she digs for the truth.
He was her fantasy receiver. Now he’s her real-life boyfriend. But as their relationship heats up, June worries she’s not capable of the kind of intimacy he needs. He's convinced his campaign to get her out of her own head—to stop thinking and feel—will work. But his own crisis could drive them further apart.
Unknown Binding
First published January 3, 2019
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About the author
Claire Kingsley
81 books12.3k followersClaire Kingsley is a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author of sexy, heartfelt contemporary romance, romantic comedies, and small-town romantic suspense. She writes sassy, quirky heroines, swoony heroes who love their women hard, romantic happily ever afters, and all the big feels.
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January 4, 2019
Bourbon Bliss is book four in the Bootleg Springs series by Claire Kingsley and Lucy Score. I have been waiting not so patiently for Junie’s book. I really had no idea how her story would go but it was most definitely worth the wait.
We’ve known June Tucker since the beginning of this series. She is Cassidy’s (from the previous book) sister. Their dad is the town sheriff. June is a bit unique. She is more or less a genius. She has a head for numbers above all else. She works from home as an actuary for large corporations and makes great money at it. In return, she invests in many local businesses to help out small business owners. I guess we could say that June is a logical woman. She has trouble relating to emotions. Her sister and Scarlet forced her to socialize throughout her childhood and adult years.
“People were odd. They said things they didn’t mean and did things that bore no relationship to what they said. I found them unpredictable and therefore uncomfortable. Numbers, on the other hand, made sense. They were reliable.”
Because of her love of numbers, of statistics, June loves sports. She loves the numbers of it. She excels at fantasy football. But her favorite player, GT Thompson, was out for the season with an ACL injury.
George (GT) Thompson was thirty two years old and had enjoyed a successful career in professional football in Philadelphia. But this was his second torn ACL injury and it would end his career. His sister was currently in Bootleg Springs, West Virginia and had been telling him about the rumored healing properties of the hot springs there so she invited him to come for a stay. He really had nothing else going on so he thought it would be worth a try.
When June first saw George, she knew who he was immediately. What she couldn’t understand was her reaction. She thought maybe she had picked up a virus. Her stomach was doing all sorts of strange things and her pulse was accelerated. She’d never encountered such symptoms before.
George was immediately enamored with June. Her bluntness, her analytical brain, all of it was a turn on to him. He couldn’t stop thinking about her and definitely wanted to get to know her better. The longer he was in Bootleg Springs, the more he liked it. He was in no hurry to leave.
George and June begin seeing each other. They are both taken with each other but June had not experienced much luck with her previous relationships. She was afraid that she wasn’t wired for intimacy and the more she was with George, the more she worried about it. Of one thing she was sure, she loved kissing him.
“Kissing you makes me feel like magic exists.”
As George and June’s relationship proceeds, there are some very shocking new developments in the Callie Kendall case. If you’ve read any of the previous books, you know that Callie went missing from Bootleg Springs thirteen years ago and the case has never been solved. DNA has now tied the case to the deceased father of the Bodine siblings. I think my jaw hit the floor when developments were revealed. But Junie wants more information. Something feels off. So she decides to play detective and George is right by her side.
But then, George has a crisis develop in his own life. Something he wants to handle himself, not drag June into. Their relationship is brand new and he fears that this might be the end of things before they’ve even had a chance to begin.
“George. My feelings of fondness for you have grown to a state of committed affection, punctuated by tenderness and infatuation.”
I loved every page of this book. I’ve always loved Junie and to see her bloom was such a beautiful thing. The patience that George took with her was so touching. They really were perfect for each other. The parts regarding Callie Kendall were jaw dropping. Even though there is a recurring story line throughout this series, you really can read this as a stand alone. There are enough details to get you by but really, you would enjoy it all so much more to start at the beginning so you can fall in love with each of these characters from the start. Because I assure you, you will. I love all my visits to Bootleg Springs, more with every book. And I hope you do as well!
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
We’ve known June Tucker since the beginning of this series. She is Cassidy’s (from the previous book) sister. Their dad is the town sheriff. June is a bit unique. She is more or less a genius. She has a head for numbers above all else. She works from home as an actuary for large corporations and makes great money at it. In return, she invests in many local businesses to help out small business owners. I guess we could say that June is a logical woman. She has trouble relating to emotions. Her sister and Scarlet forced her to socialize throughout her childhood and adult years.
“People were odd. They said things they didn’t mean and did things that bore no relationship to what they said. I found them unpredictable and therefore uncomfortable. Numbers, on the other hand, made sense. They were reliable.”
Because of her love of numbers, of statistics, June loves sports. She loves the numbers of it. She excels at fantasy football. But her favorite player, GT Thompson, was out for the season with an ACL injury.
George (GT) Thompson was thirty two years old and had enjoyed a successful career in professional football in Philadelphia. But this was his second torn ACL injury and it would end his career. His sister was currently in Bootleg Springs, West Virginia and had been telling him about the rumored healing properties of the hot springs there so she invited him to come for a stay. He really had nothing else going on so he thought it would be worth a try.
When June first saw George, she knew who he was immediately. What she couldn’t understand was her reaction. She thought maybe she had picked up a virus. Her stomach was doing all sorts of strange things and her pulse was accelerated. She’d never encountered such symptoms before.
George was immediately enamored with June. Her bluntness, her analytical brain, all of it was a turn on to him. He couldn’t stop thinking about her and definitely wanted to get to know her better. The longer he was in Bootleg Springs, the more he liked it. He was in no hurry to leave.
George and June begin seeing each other. They are both taken with each other but June had not experienced much luck with her previous relationships. She was afraid that she wasn’t wired for intimacy and the more she was with George, the more she worried about it. Of one thing she was sure, she loved kissing him.
“Kissing you makes me feel like magic exists.”
As George and June’s relationship proceeds, there are some very shocking new developments in the Callie Kendall case. If you’ve read any of the previous books, you know that Callie went missing from Bootleg Springs thirteen years ago and the case has never been solved. DNA has now tied the case to the deceased father of the Bodine siblings. I think my jaw hit the floor when developments were revealed. But Junie wants more information. Something feels off. So she decides to play detective and George is right by her side.
But then, George has a crisis develop in his own life. Something he wants to handle himself, not drag June into. Their relationship is brand new and he fears that this might be the end of things before they’ve even had a chance to begin.
“George. My feelings of fondness for you have grown to a state of committed affection, punctuated by tenderness and infatuation.”
I loved every page of this book. I’ve always loved Junie and to see her bloom was such a beautiful thing. The patience that George took with her was so touching. They really were perfect for each other. The parts regarding Callie Kendall were jaw dropping. Even though there is a recurring story line throughout this series, you really can read this as a stand alone. There are enough details to get you by but really, you would enjoy it all so much more to start at the beginning so you can fall in love with each of these characters from the start. Because I assure you, you will. I love all my visits to Bootleg Springs, more with every book. And I hope you do as well!
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
February 28, 2021
It's already on my best of the bestest shelf .... where do I go from here?
Bourbon Bliss is by far one of my very favourite stories and listening to the audio just enhanced my enjoyment. My emotions were involved and I had to hide my face (while travelling to work on the train) as the tears welled in my eyes. I also had to do the fake cough/clear my throat thingamajiggy (not ideal in covid times) when I accidentally busted out laughing.
I think Natalie Duke, the narrator does a fabulous job portraying June, and I think I love the character even more now. Stephen Dexter does a fantastic job too, and I'm still getting shivers up my spine from Gibson's gravelly drawl.
This series is so good and I'm sad that I've finished the audios that are currently available. I can't wait for more.
**********
An extremely satisfying read…
At the 6% mark of the book, I had tears in my eyes and I was ready to write my review. Yes, it wasn’t going to be a completely accurate review as I’d only read a smidge, but I had so much to say already. My emotions were like a geyser and in that short period of time, I was extremely attached, connected and enthralled with the characters. My heart burst with love for June and her honest, at time abrupt and thoughtful take on everything going on around her. The connection she has with her loved ones, especially her Dad and sister Cassidy, came through in their sweet conversations. June may be a bit of an odd duck but she was loved not just by her family but the people of Bootleg Springs too.
I knew that June was going to be interesting, but Claire Kingsley and Lucy Score created one of the most amazing characters I’ve ever met. I don’t know if you can enhance a character, but in this case Bootleg Springs made her even better. Each interaction showed an acceptance of her quirky nature and protectiveness that showed how much they cared. Bootleg Springs has become a town that I think all small towns should aspire to. Their loyalty to each other is admirable. The shenanigans they get up to is humorous, a little dangerous and not something I could imagine happening in real life, or, more accurately, my life. Yes, they might be a wee bit gossipy and enjoy a good bar fight more than they should, but they care about their people.
Can you imagine meeting your hero/idol/person you admire, and they are completely naked? June’s reaction to meeting George was an ABSOLUTE CRACK UP!! In true June fashion, she does not hide the fact that she knows him or that she’s aware that certain parts of his anatomy were quite happy to meet her. This initial conversation and how George handled it, lead me to believe that they were perfect together.
Now it’s pretty obvious that I loved June’s character, but I loved George’s too. Even at his worst…if you could call it that, he was still sweet, considerate and caring. It was refreshing to meet an elite athlete who looked past his own nose. Yes, George could be a little ignorant and out of touch with how to live and take care of himself. It’s not surprising though, considering he had staff members to handle those pesky jobs like grocery shopping and paying bills. In Bourbon Bliss George realises it’s time to reassess his life and pay more attention to what he was previously ignorant about.
I would say that Bourbon Bliss is a slow burn romance. What makes it different is that it’s a mutual decision between the couple to go slow, and not the surrounding circumstances. In June and George’s case, it was done out of consideration and a need to establish trust in their connection. I loved that George understood June’s hesitancy and explained things in a way she could work through. It was hard for June to turn off her brain and just feel. I was completely satisfied waiting for them to get through all the bases and finally hit the home plate.
Seriously, I cannot recommend Bourbon Bliss and the Bootleg Springs series enough. The storylines are captivating, the characters have come to life for me and once I start reading, I can’t stop…then sad when I finish too quickly. We're still dealing with the mystery of Callie's disappearance, but I have my suspicions of what really happened. If you haven’t started the Bootleg Springs series yet, I suggest you start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.
Bourbon Bliss is by far one of my very favourite stories and listening to the audio just enhanced my enjoyment. My emotions were involved and I had to hide my face (while travelling to work on the train) as the tears welled in my eyes. I also had to do the fake cough/clear my throat thingamajiggy (not ideal in covid times) when I accidentally busted out laughing.
I think Natalie Duke, the narrator does a fabulous job portraying June, and I think I love the character even more now. Stephen Dexter does a fantastic job too, and I'm still getting shivers up my spine from Gibson's gravelly drawl.
This series is so good and I'm sad that I've finished the audios that are currently available. I can't wait for more.
**********
An extremely satisfying read…
At the 6% mark of the book, I had tears in my eyes and I was ready to write my review. Yes, it wasn’t going to be a completely accurate review as I’d only read a smidge, but I had so much to say already. My emotions were like a geyser and in that short period of time, I was extremely attached, connected and enthralled with the characters. My heart burst with love for June and her honest, at time abrupt and thoughtful take on everything going on around her. The connection she has with her loved ones, especially her Dad and sister Cassidy, came through in their sweet conversations. June may be a bit of an odd duck but she was loved not just by her family but the people of Bootleg Springs too.
I knew that June was going to be interesting, but Claire Kingsley and Lucy Score created one of the most amazing characters I’ve ever met. I don’t know if you can enhance a character, but in this case Bootleg Springs made her even better. Each interaction showed an acceptance of her quirky nature and protectiveness that showed how much they cared. Bootleg Springs has become a town that I think all small towns should aspire to. Their loyalty to each other is admirable. The shenanigans they get up to is humorous, a little dangerous and not something I could imagine happening in real life, or, more accurately, my life. Yes, they might be a wee bit gossipy and enjoy a good bar fight more than they should, but they care about their people.
Can you imagine meeting your hero/idol/person you admire, and they are completely naked? June’s reaction to meeting George was an ABSOLUTE CRACK UP!! In true June fashion, she does not hide the fact that she knows him or that she’s aware that certain parts of his anatomy were quite happy to meet her. This initial conversation and how George handled it, lead me to believe that they were perfect together.
Now it’s pretty obvious that I loved June’s character, but I loved George’s too. Even at his worst…if you could call it that, he was still sweet, considerate and caring. It was refreshing to meet an elite athlete who looked past his own nose. Yes, George could be a little ignorant and out of touch with how to live and take care of himself. It’s not surprising though, considering he had staff members to handle those pesky jobs like grocery shopping and paying bills. In Bourbon Bliss George realises it’s time to reassess his life and pay more attention to what he was previously ignorant about.
I would say that Bourbon Bliss is a slow burn romance. What makes it different is that it’s a mutual decision between the couple to go slow, and not the surrounding circumstances. In June and George’s case, it was done out of consideration and a need to establish trust in their connection. I loved that George understood June’s hesitancy and explained things in a way she could work through. It was hard for June to turn off her brain and just feel. I was completely satisfied waiting for them to get through all the bases and finally hit the home plate.
Seriously, I cannot recommend Bourbon Bliss and the Bootleg Springs series enough. The storylines are captivating, the characters have come to life for me and once I start reading, I can’t stop…then sad when I finish too quickly. We're still dealing with the mystery of Callie's disappearance, but I have my suspicions of what really happened. If you haven’t started the Bootleg Springs series yet, I suggest you start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.
July 3, 2019
Who knew that the only reason famous athletes have sex with groupies who wait around after games just to have baby daddies fun sexy sex with them was to kill time until they met someone smart, logical, and unemotional?
See? The guy behind the bars only has eyes for the sexy Spock! Rrawr!
June has most likely got Asperger's Syndrome. She doesn't understand sarcasm, metaphors, innuendos or slang. She speaks in a monotone voice and finds socializing with humans boring. However, she is a huge football fan so when a retired player comes to town, June discovers she does have feelings after all.
In her pants!
George, the football player, is awesome. He is the sweetest, most perfect boyfriend ever, and he loves that June is so smart and honest. Also, if I didn't love him enough? He has a pet bunny named Marshmellow! *heart eyes* June suddenly understands what every female feels when they see a hot guy with a cute little animal:
He nuzzled her against his cheek (the bunny) and my ovaries suddenly burst into song, declaring their presence in my body. I'd never in my life felt an urge to procreate. But watching this man snuggle a tiny white bunny made me desperate to have all his babies.
Wait. Is that a firefighter saving a bunny's life? Holy Shit! Wait, he's also got a sexy Euro accent? I'm calling the police. This is too much.
This story is absolutely adorable in every way. June has been in all of the other books and it was awesome to see her find a guy who appreciated her personality and quirks. I always love the storyline of a misunderstood person finding their true love.
See? The guy behind the bars only has eyes for the sexy Spock! Rrawr!
June has most likely got Asperger's Syndrome. She doesn't understand sarcasm, metaphors, innuendos or slang. She speaks in a monotone voice and finds socializing with humans boring. However, she is a huge football fan so when a retired player comes to town, June discovers she does have feelings after all.
In her pants!
George, the football player, is awesome. He is the sweetest, most perfect boyfriend ever, and he loves that June is so smart and honest. Also, if I didn't love him enough? He has a pet bunny named Marshmellow! *heart eyes* June suddenly understands what every female feels when they see a hot guy with a cute little animal:
He nuzzled her against his cheek (the bunny) and my ovaries suddenly burst into song, declaring their presence in my body. I'd never in my life felt an urge to procreate. But watching this man snuggle a tiny white bunny made me desperate to have all his babies.
Wait. Is that a firefighter saving a bunny's life? Holy Shit! Wait, he's also got a sexy Euro accent? I'm calling the police. This is too much.
This story is absolutely adorable in every way. June has been in all of the other books and it was awesome to see her find a guy who appreciated her personality and quirks. I always love the storyline of a misunderstood person finding their true love.
January 4, 2019
2.75 stars
June was my favourite character in this series. Such an unique and highly intelligent woman! I didn't find her awkward, but very smart and different.
I expected her story and her as a heroine to be more confident.
The topic of woman being insecure in sexual relationship is not funny or silly (not that the authors made fun of it, nope!), but I definitely expected this educated woman to know more about pleasure and to be able to solve her issues based on her knowledge of human body and mind.
Well, I could somehow 'buy' her boiling hormones and silly missteps, but I thought she would act differently with a man.
He was an ok hero. Not a manwhore and actually a good guy, but his assistant stealing from him for years made him look like a dumbass. It was so clear from the beginnings and I asked myself how the tax authorities found it out only after 5 years of 'cheating' 🤔
The suspense aspect was a bit weird. How did everyone believe a woman to be a missing girl without any actual proof?!
Not that I look for a life-changing message in romance books, but I wish for some kind of plausibility...
I need a new hobby I guess... 😂
June was my favourite character in this series. Such an unique and highly intelligent woman! I didn't find her awkward, but very smart and different.
I expected her story and her as a heroine to be more confident.
The topic of woman being insecure in sexual relationship is not funny or silly (not that the authors made fun of it, nope!), but I definitely expected this educated woman to know more about pleasure and to be able to solve her issues based on her knowledge of human body and mind.
Well, I could somehow 'buy' her boiling hormones and silly missteps, but I thought she would act differently with a man.
He was an ok hero. Not a manwhore and actually a good guy, but his assistant stealing from him for years made him look like a dumbass. It was so clear from the beginnings and I asked myself how the tax authorities found it out only after 5 years of 'cheating' 🤔
The suspense aspect was a bit weird. How did everyone believe a woman to be a missing girl without any actual proof?!
Not that I look for a life-changing message in romance books, but I wish for some kind of plausibility...
January 8, 2019
This is fourth in a series and events and characters (and an overarching plot that I mostly ignore) build and modify from one to the next. So it's good to read these in order, I think.
The two authors sharing this series seem to be trading off every other book. So I was very worried about this one because the last written by Claire Kingsley (Sidecar Crush) bumped me out pretty quick. Plus, I've loved June Tucker from the start and so wanted her story not to suck. So I'm extremely gratified to say that I loved the heck out of this story.
George is my very favorite type of hero as the strong, capable guy who cares about the people in his life and does his best to help them. He adds a sly intelligence that helps him keep up with June, but also a strong appreciation for her that I found particularly engaging. I particularly liked that the misreads and trials they put each other through were both extremely normal even while being uniquely their own. For example, June getting upset that she "isn't enough" sexually could have been rote or under or over played but Kingsley played it exactly right and made it work as a point of strength. So it manifests in a uniquely June way to have a problem, but the effects were very normal as the kind of thing that couples have to work out.
And I gained even more respect for Kingsley when one of George's problems moving into his post-NFL career fit right up June's professional alley and yet instead of making that a hero-moment for June to swoop in and solve all the problems it was an even stronger relationship moment when she figured out that what he really needed was her emotional and physical support rather than her giant brain solving things. She points out (to herself and later to him) that he has plenty of highly capable professionals already working on the problem but only one person who can be his emotional support. That was so cool, I had to put the book down a moment to bask in the relationshipness of it.
The only thing I can find even marginally against it is that I don't think Kingsley is quite as funny as Lucy Score. There were a couple times where Score might have managed a belly-laugh that Kingsley bypassed for a different type of mood. This isn't really a detriment, though, so I'm not going to say this should have been funnier. The funny scenes were still funny and the rest of the story flowed very well for what they were. If that makes any sense.
So this is a solid five-star read and what a relief that is. June and George are so perfect together that I'm really looking forward to the last two books to come. I really hate catching up with the publication speed of a series, though, because now I'm going to have to wait...
A note about Steamy: There are a lot of minor scenes that aren't quite sex and three that (mostly) are. That seems like a lot but didn't feel like so much because part of what George and June are working out are issues with physicality. So it fit into the story and seeing them work out their intimacy was endearing and engaging. So this fits the middle of my steam tolerance and was an incredibly strong aspect of the story.
A note about Smart People: Smart people, especially brilliant ones, are very hard to write and few authors are able to make it work. This is another aspect that Kingsley hit out of the park. People aren't robots and the temptation is to make them function that way by being completely over-analytical. June is very analytical and having a quick mind and incredible memory make her very different, it's true. But she's still a woman with emotional and relationship needs and sometimes she'll understand and sometimes not—just like anybody else. This is all interwoven with a great family dynamic that provides her patterns and examples, but still leaves her needing to figure out the application and I just love how well Kingsley seemed to understand this and make it work for her character.
The two authors sharing this series seem to be trading off every other book. So I was very worried about this one because the last written by Claire Kingsley (Sidecar Crush) bumped me out pretty quick. Plus, I've loved June Tucker from the start and so wanted her story not to suck. So I'm extremely gratified to say that I loved the heck out of this story.
George is my very favorite type of hero as the strong, capable guy who cares about the people in his life and does his best to help them. He adds a sly intelligence that helps him keep up with June, but also a strong appreciation for her that I found particularly engaging. I particularly liked that the misreads and trials they put each other through were both extremely normal even while being uniquely their own. For example, June getting upset that she "isn't enough" sexually could have been rote or under or over played but Kingsley played it exactly right and made it work as a point of strength. So it manifests in a uniquely June way to have a problem, but the effects were very normal as the kind of thing that couples have to work out.
And I gained even more respect for Kingsley when one of George's problems moving into his post-NFL career fit right up June's professional alley and yet instead of making that a hero-moment for June to swoop in and solve all the problems it was an even stronger relationship moment when she figured out that what he really needed was her emotional and physical support rather than her giant brain solving things. She points out (to herself and later to him) that he has plenty of highly capable professionals already working on the problem but only one person who can be his emotional support. That was so cool, I had to put the book down a moment to bask in the relationshipness of it.
The only thing I can find even marginally against it is that I don't think Kingsley is quite as funny as Lucy Score. There were a couple times where Score might have managed a belly-laugh that Kingsley bypassed for a different type of mood. This isn't really a detriment, though, so I'm not going to say this should have been funnier. The funny scenes were still funny and the rest of the story flowed very well for what they were. If that makes any sense.
So this is a solid five-star read and what a relief that is. June and George are so perfect together that I'm really looking forward to the last two books to come. I really hate catching up with the publication speed of a series, though, because now I'm going to have to wait...
A note about Steamy: There are a lot of minor scenes that aren't quite sex and three that (mostly) are. That seems like a lot but didn't feel like so much because part of what George and June are working out are issues with physicality. So it fit into the story and seeing them work out their intimacy was endearing and engaging. So this fits the middle of my steam tolerance and was an incredibly strong aspect of the story.
A note about Smart People: Smart people, especially brilliant ones, are very hard to write and few authors are able to make it work. This is another aspect that Kingsley hit out of the park. People aren't robots and the temptation is to make them function that way by being completely over-analytical. June is very analytical and having a quick mind and incredible memory make her very different, it's true. But she's still a woman with emotional and relationship needs and sometimes she'll understand and sometimes not—just like anybody else. This is all interwoven with a great family dynamic that provides her patterns and examples, but still leaves her needing to figure out the application and I just love how well Kingsley seemed to understand this and make it work for her character.
February 7, 2021
I am drawn into this book after reading many good reviews from goodreads, especially about June. I can get the joke. But what missing is the chemistry between George and June.
I do not feel the attraction between June and George. I feel these 2 characters are better apart instead of together. When they are togehter, their chemistry becomes dull.
The suspense of the missing girl is off. Maybe too much mystery does not really mean it is good for story development.
Overall an OK book.
3 stars
I do not feel the attraction between June and George. I feel these 2 characters are better apart instead of together. When they are togehter, their chemistry becomes dull.
The suspense of the missing girl is off. Maybe too much mystery does not really mean it is good for story development.
Overall an OK book.
3 stars
November 9, 2022
I gotta rate this book in two parts
1- the romance: 5 stars. Loved Juney & George. Loved their story, it was really sweet and perfect for them.
2- the murder mystery: 2 stars. We are on book four and still no closer to finding out what happened. This book revealed a lot, then took it all back and said wait never mind - back to square one. I almost couldn't enjoy Juney/George when I was so annoyed at the author for dragging this on. Come onnnn
1- the romance: 5 stars. Loved Juney & George. Loved their story, it was really sweet and perfect for them.
2- the murder mystery: 2 stars. We are on book four and still no closer to finding out what happened. This book revealed a lot, then took it all back and said wait never mind - back to square one. I almost couldn't enjoy Juney/George when I was so annoyed at the author for dragging this on. Come onnnn
October 6, 2020
At a crossroads after an injury that means he has no choice but to retire as a football player, George (GT) Thompson finds himself in Bootleg Springs where he is instantly drawn to the unique June Tucker.
George makes some silly mistakes when it comes to his relationship with June but nothing that made me wish a piano would fall on him.
A light small town romance that was nice, but not one that had be loosing track of time or had my fingers twitching to pick up my kindle when I put it down.
New developments in the Callie Kendall case take place here.
Acquired via KU.
George makes some silly mistakes when it comes to his relationship with June but nothing that made me wish a piano would fall on him.
A light small town romance that was nice, but not one that had be loosing track of time or had my fingers twitching to pick up my kindle when I put it down.
New developments in the Callie Kendall case take place here.
Acquired via KU.
May 8, 2024
I. ADORE. JUNE!!! She comes off socially awkward, and I enjoyed every moment 😂😂😂😍😍😍
George and June’s story was portrayed with tenderness, affection, respect, and warmth. We can’t help but cheer for her and are quickly made aware of the power of understanding and celebrating and valuing one’s strengths in supporting self discovery and growth. I admire and respect George’s patience with June’s sexual issues and his plan to help her overcome it.
The Callie Kendall story still plays out in this installment of the series, and an interesting turn of events takes place. In the end, we are still left wondering how the disappearance of Callie Kendall many years ago will ultimately end up. We’ll have to patiently wait until the final installment of Book Six. Can’t wait!
George is just a big teddy bear. Strong, loving, sweet, and sexy. He really sees June for who she is and loves her completely. He’s a little lost now that his pro football career is over, but he finds everything he didn’t know he was looking for with Bootleg Springs and June. George and June are so perfect together. The support, love, and patience George has for June is so sweet.
“My sense of humor is not well-developed enough to pull off a prank of this magnitude,” June said. 😂😂
Online audiobook 🎶
George and June’s story was portrayed with tenderness, affection, respect, and warmth. We can’t help but cheer for her and are quickly made aware of the power of understanding and celebrating and valuing one’s strengths in supporting self discovery and growth. I admire and respect George’s patience with June’s sexual issues and his plan to help her overcome it.
The Callie Kendall story still plays out in this installment of the series, and an interesting turn of events takes place. In the end, we are still left wondering how the disappearance of Callie Kendall many years ago will ultimately end up. We’ll have to patiently wait until the final installment of Book Six. Can’t wait!
George is just a big teddy bear. Strong, loving, sweet, and sexy. He really sees June for who she is and loves her completely. He’s a little lost now that his pro football career is over, but he finds everything he didn’t know he was looking for with Bootleg Springs and June. George and June are so perfect together. The support, love, and patience George has for June is so sweet.
“My sense of humor is not well-developed enough to pull off a prank of this magnitude,” June said. 😂😂
Online audiobook 🎶
July 5, 2020
Aww quirky June Bug, you are awesome. George former NFL receiver is her perfect match, ( we all know how she loves her fantasy football). He’s no fantasy though. He wants her for her and it’s sweet. Plus there is a lot to process with the ongoing saga of missing Callie Kendall. I get more confused each book with this missing person’s case. Great read, my favorite so far. 5 stars!
July 7, 2019
I really loved June and George’s love story in this latest installment in the Bootleg Springs series by Lucy Score and Claire Kingsley. It's best read in order, because there is an overarching storyline involving the disappearance of one Callie Kendall, but if that doesn't bug you, I say let's jump into this.
June Tucker is an unusual type of heroine (think seemingly on the spectrum even if it’s explicitly said she isn’t in an earlier book). She’s straightforward in all her interactions with people, but she has trouble reading people’s body language and subtext in conversations. She may be different, but I love how she’s accepted and loved by all of her friends and family and truly a Bootlegger. Enter George “GT” Thompson, a very successful football player who suffered a career ending injury, and decided to come to Bootleg Springs to be closer to his sister and enjoy the healing properties of the hot springs in Bootleg. And guess what? Yep, romance happens.
I was always concerned about how June’s love story would be handled because she is so unusual that I didn’t want to lose what made her great as a character. I love that Ms. Kingsley really delved into June’s inner thoughts in a way that felt genuine and true to the character I’ve come to know and love. George is a great hero who is captivated by June from the first but it’s the way they connect through their conversations that really drew me in. I also adored that their sexual relationship did not take the traditional route but actually addresses how June’s inability to shut off her brain contributes to her issues with connecting with other people, especially in a romantic relationship. June and George may be my second favorites, just behind Scarlett and Devlin, who I still adore and love seeing their HEA going strong.
The bottom line is I adore how Bootleg Springs and its inhabitants play their roles in this romance, how the overarching storyline has some interesting twists come up and at the heart of it all, the romance always leaves me satisfied and wanting more. If you love small town romances, I think you’ll love a stint in Bootleg Springs - I know I do.
**borrowed through Kindle Unlimited**
For more reviews, visit
January 25, 2019
This is book 4 in the continuing series in Bootleg Springs, WV. June Tucker's story.
I've loved June in the previous 3 books. She's had some great one liners. Scene-stealer.
I love June and sister Cassidy's relationship. They get each other. Cassidy never hesitates to include June in the girls' day/or night get together.
The focus is on June in this one. I got to read her POV. What was in her head?
I love her even more in this book. I love love this kind of heroine. There's a (terrific) growing trend where the heroine and supporting female characters are either very shy and/or quirky characters. I love that.
The Hero is George (GT) Thompson. He's June's pick for fantasy football.
The meet cute is terrific and SO funny! OMG June!! I almost spit out my diet coke reading the hot springs scene. It's at the very beginning of the book. I wish that I had more of a lead up/intro of George's character. He was just "there" in Bootleg Springs. That is a very minor detail though. I love George and June's chemistry. They are so opposite, but George just "gets" her. Talk about the right person at the right time (in their lives). George is incredibly patient with June.
The mystery continues with long time missing person Callie. All of my guesses went out the window... or NOT... Hmmm.
George is constantly amazed by June. June learns how to examine her feelings (from George!).
The biker bar scene had me holding my breath, but I was so riveted.
I liked this a lot better than Cassidy's story.
I can hardly wait for the next book. I heard that there are 2 coming out around summer this year.
4.5 moonshine stars. PS, ALL of the supporting characters are great! Except one or two (??!!)
PPS. The ending is so sweet <3 + the mystery continues!!
I've loved June in the previous 3 books. She's had some great one liners. Scene-stealer.
I love June and sister Cassidy's relationship. They get each other. Cassidy never hesitates to include June in the girls' day/or night get together.
The focus is on June in this one. I got to read her POV. What was in her head?
I love her even more in this book. I love love this kind of heroine. There's a (terrific) growing trend where the heroine and supporting female characters are either very shy and/or quirky characters. I love that.
The Hero is George (GT) Thompson. He's June's pick for fantasy football.
The meet cute is terrific and SO funny! OMG June!! I almost spit out my diet coke reading the hot springs scene. It's at the very beginning of the book. I wish that I had more of a lead up/intro of George's character. He was just "there" in Bootleg Springs. That is a very minor detail though. I love George and June's chemistry. They are so opposite, but George just "gets" her. Talk about the right person at the right time (in their lives). George is incredibly patient with June.
The mystery continues with long time missing person Callie. All of my guesses went out the window... or NOT... Hmmm.
George is constantly amazed by June. June learns how to examine her feelings (from George!).
The biker bar scene had me holding my breath, but I was so riveted.
I liked this a lot better than Cassidy's story.
I can hardly wait for the next book. I heard that there are 2 coming out around summer this year.
4.5 moonshine stars. PS, ALL of the supporting characters are great! Except one or two (??!!)
PPS. The ending is so sweet <3 + the mystery continues!!
January 25, 2019
Loved this. Bourbon Bliss is a heartwarming and funny small town romance. June and George are amazing. Unforgettable characters that you just can't help but love. I only wished I had read the previous books in the series first but I am going back to start at book 1 now. Highly recommend.
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any push/pull
Any couple separation
Angst Level: Low
Heat Level: High
Instant Love:
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any push/pull
Any couple separation
Angst Level: Low
Heat Level: High
Instant Love:
November 22, 2021
me reading graphic smut
vs. me reading “George traced his fingers along the back of my hand, as if he were mapping the shape of my bones. It was very distracting ”
I genuinely adored the relationship of George and June. George had been so patient with June who was on the autism spectrum. While she also never failed to express her support to him when he was in trouble. They’d had little bumps in their relationship but it wasn’t unnecessarily dramatic compared to book 2 and 3. However, there’s the missing-person-mystery subplot that spans across the series that was really testing me on this sequel! 😫 So I’m just going with 3.5 ⭐️
vs. me reading “George traced his fingers along the back of my hand, as if he were mapping the shape of my bones. It was very distracting ”
I genuinely adored the relationship of George and June. George had been so patient with June who was on the autism spectrum. While she also never failed to express her support to him when he was in trouble. They’d had little bumps in their relationship but it wasn’t unnecessarily dramatic compared to book 2 and 3. However, there’s the missing-person-mystery subplot that spans across the series that was really testing me on this sequel! 😫 So I’m just going with 3.5 ⭐️
November 6, 2023
3.75/5⭐️
Estaba deseando llegar a la historia de June, era una personaje que me atraía mucho en los otros libros. La historia es linda, pero no se si no esperaba más.
Los protagonistas me gustaron y creo que estuvieron bien los dos juntos. La paciencia y el cariño que pone GT en la relación dan una ternura increíble.
En June la parte lógica e hiper racional que tenía en los otros libros como personaje secundario se tambalea un poco, en parte por esta nueva relación y los sentimientos que le generan, pero en algunos casos no lo vi tan justificado.
El misterio de la chica desaparecida continúa y obtenemos más pistas.
HE asegurado, mucha ternura y menos spicy que los libros anteriores.
Me gustó.
Estaba deseando llegar a la historia de June, era una personaje que me atraía mucho en los otros libros. La historia es linda, pero no se si no esperaba más.
Los protagonistas me gustaron y creo que estuvieron bien los dos juntos. La paciencia y el cariño que pone GT en la relación dan una ternura increíble.
En June la parte lógica e hiper racional que tenía en los otros libros como personaje secundario se tambalea un poco, en parte por esta nueva relación y los sentimientos que le generan, pero en algunos casos no lo vi tan justificado.
El misterio de la chica desaparecida continúa y obtenemos más pistas.
HE asegurado, mucha ternura y menos spicy que los libros anteriores.
Me gustó.
March 5, 2022
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 3 stars
Bourbon Bliss is book 4 in the Bootleg Springs series and is about June and George (GT). Each book focuses on one couple, but there is a suspense storyline that spans the entire series, so the books should be read in order.
Things to look forward to in Bourbon Bliss:
- celebrity sports (retired) romance
- opposites attract
- an adorable pet rabbit named Mellow
- a do-over prom
- Bootleg Justice!
- more twists and turns in the Callie Kendall case
I enjoyed being back in Bootleg Springs and seeing June find someone who truly saw and understood her. June has a hard time understanding people and their intentions, so I appreciated how June's fears and concerns about relationships and love were addressed. I did feel uncomfortable at times though when it felt like June's responses were only to add humor to a situation. It's a fine line between showing her authentic self and adding deliberate confusion to elicit a laugh. The instalove is also strong in this one and I would have preferred a little more build up between George and June. The narration by Stephen Dexter and Natalie Duke was wonderful and I was especially impressed with Natalie Duke's performance. She voiced June so perfectly. Overall this was a sweet small town romance and I'm looking forward to continuing on with the series.
CW: mentions of: issues with IRS/tax evasion, ongoing missing person's case, career ending injury, and bullying (past)
Overall 4 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 3 stars
Bourbon Bliss is book 4 in the Bootleg Springs series and is about June and George (GT). Each book focuses on one couple, but there is a suspense storyline that spans the entire series, so the books should be read in order.
Things to look forward to in Bourbon Bliss:
- celebrity sports (retired) romance
- opposites attract
- an adorable pet rabbit named Mellow
- a do-over prom
- Bootleg Justice!
- more twists and turns in the Callie Kendall case
I enjoyed being back in Bootleg Springs and seeing June find someone who truly saw and understood her. June has a hard time understanding people and their intentions, so I appreciated how June's fears and concerns about relationships and love were addressed. I did feel uncomfortable at times though when it felt like June's responses were only to add humor to a situation. It's a fine line between showing her authentic self and adding deliberate confusion to elicit a laugh. The instalove is also strong in this one and I would have preferred a little more build up between George and June. The narration by Stephen Dexter and Natalie Duke was wonderful and I was especially impressed with Natalie Duke's performance. She voiced June so perfectly. Overall this was a sweet small town romance and I'm looking forward to continuing on with the series.
CW: mentions of: issues with IRS/tax evasion, ongoing missing person's case, career ending injury, and bullying (past)
September 29, 2021
I'm loving this series so much. Full RTC with the final book.
June 12, 2021
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾☆ 3.75 stars ☆☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
don’t mind me, i’m just gonna go and cry because no one loves me.
I was excited for this one cause June has always been a different character than the rest. I wasn’t disappointed. I admit I wasn’t feeling George and June at the beginning (he seemed waaaay to unrealistic idky), but as the story progressed I started to like their dynamic and how George became quite literally her partner in crime 🥺🥺
The prom thing was fcking adorable. I want a man like that 😭😭😭😭
The Callie’s things was... interesting. I’m invested. I actually have no fcking clue how that is gonna end.
Again, the town and the families made this so much better. I looooove this crazy town ❤️
p.s. that first sex scene... girl. it was AWFUL.
SONGS:
Speechless - Dan + Shay
Better Place - Rachel Platten
don’t mind me, i’m just gonna go and cry because no one loves me.
I was excited for this one cause June has always been a different character than the rest. I wasn’t disappointed. I admit I wasn’t feeling George and June at the beginning (he seemed waaaay to unrealistic idky), but as the story progressed I started to like their dynamic and how George became quite literally her partner in crime 🥺🥺
The prom thing was fcking adorable. I want a man like that 😭😭😭😭
The Callie’s things was... interesting. I’m invested. I actually have no fcking clue how that is gonna end.
Again, the town and the families made this so much better. I looooove this crazy town ❤️
p.s. that first sex scene... girl. it was AWFUL.
SONGS:
Speechless - Dan + Shay
Better Place - Rachel Platten
November 7, 2025
** First Read** 1️⃣
September 29, 2021.
⭐⭐⭐💫
3½ stars.
** Re-read** 2️⃣
November 7, 2025.
⭐⭐⭐
3 stars.
➕ What I liked :
A neurodivergent heroine.
Some little parts of the plot were somewhat interesting.
Some of the side characters were kind of interesting.
The heroines supportive/caring family. (Even if the heroines sister is a little overbearing among other things.)
➖ What I disliked:
The story is too long and feels dragged out.
Verbose.
Rather slow pacing.
The way the heroine is written…. She is a neurodivergent/high functioning autistic woman or is supposed to be a neurodivergent/high functioning autistic woman …. But how the heroine is written just feels and seems rather much like a stereotypical characterization of a neurodivergent/high functioning autistic person…. But also in some places contradicting (she does things that are very out of character and does not fit in at all with her characters description or how she has been depicted/characterized before) And either it is because the book is written by 2 different authors… or by authors that needed to do some more research on how neurodivergent/high functioning autistic people talk, behave, feel etc.
Inconsistencies in how both main characters are depicted/characterized….. and in many ways both main characters are also just too much like cardboard cut-out characters.
Even for a book that is part of a series there are some things that are not explained and/or just mentioned once and then forgotten.
Too much telling and not enough showing what happens in the story.
The romantic build-up/romance and the chemistry was rather lacking/lackluster but also rushed and lacked depth and in some weird way contradicting ….
And also the way the couple and especially the hero goes from being rather good at communicating with the heroine and the heroine with the hero….. and being rather honest with each other… To the hero then keeping things secret or held back and also not wanting to communicate with the heroine about very important things or wanting to discuss things with her…but also from being caring to her etc. to being angry/dismissive and annoyed with her… when she just tries to communicate etc. It just seems too contradicting and at odds…. like he/they are not the same characters.
The heroines sister is a little too overbearing and meddling (and some other things) and it is like she does not understand how the heroine thinks or functions etc.
But most of it comes from wanting the heroine to be included etc. so her heart is in the right place…. But it is still a little annoying.
The heroes assistant.
The thing with the heroes assistant was just too obvious… and also it contradicts the way the hero was depicted/characterized before (like a rather smart/capable man...even if a little too pampered when famous) But also would he really let one person have such control over his life and finances? And also just trust that person to 100%? That is very naive and also set up to fail and cause trouble for him… he should have had more interest in his finances and also had professionals handling his finances (accountants/financial advisers)…. Anyone can be fooled/duped and manipulated… but his complete trust in that one person (his assistant) it does not make sense for a man that is 30+ and has seen and knows other pitfalls with being famous and having lots of money.
It would maybe be more believable or/and make sense if it was a very young professional athlete ( early 20’s or younger) and/or in the beginning of their career… but at 30+ and after having played and earned etc. for so long not so much…. It is too unrealistic/unbelievable.
Formulaic in the character description/visual appearance/character choice about both the main characters.
(Hero= tall/very tall, big and muscular, handsome…. And heroine: slender etc.)
There are so many different sizes of American professional football players (both in shape/size and weight but also in height … from players like Trindon Holliday, J. J. Taylor …. to players like Dan Skipper, Spencer Brown to Trent Brown to DeVonta Smith, ….. It would have been much more interesting and less predictable if the hero was Not of the formulaic kind …. and maybe a shorter player ? A slim/lanky player? etc.
And the heroine was more or less described as a copy of her sister when it came to visual appearance/appearance….
January 2, 2019
Each time a book in this series comes out, I fall in love with this series more and more. This book is no exception. This time we get June’s story. I’ll be honest I wasn’t sure how this was going to go. June is a very quirky, secondary character in the other books. To me the best way to describe June is she is very “Sheldon-like”. I’ve LOVED her character but I knew her path to HEA was going to be interesting. This story was amazing. George was the perfect match for June. There are so many things that were just amazing, but I don’t want to spoil any of them for you. There was one scene near the beginning where George and June were dancing, and I think right at that moment I fell head over heels for George. He is so kind and patient with June. He’s so swoony in many areas but he was also a typical guy that made mistakes. All of these characteristics made him so endearing. I just can’t get enough of him.
If you’ve read the other books in this series you will definitely see June in a different light. She’s still the highly intelligent, low emotional, straightforward, no-nonsense character, but there is so much more to her. Once she finds someone that understands and accepts her, she just blossoms. You’ll learn of some more twists and turns in the Callie Kendall subplot, and in the process you’ll also learn that June is a little bit of a bad-ass. I really didn’t know what to expect, but this story surpassed everything I could’ve hoped for.
If you haven’t read any of Bootleg Springs series, this book is the 4th in the series. Each book is about a different couple and could be read as a standalone. Trust me when I tell you to just read the entire series. You won’t be lost if you just read this one but it will be so much more enjoyable if you have read all of the series. I cannot recommend this series enough. This is one of my all-time favorite series! Go get this book and get this series. Once you devour it you’ll be telling all your friends to go read it too.
If you’ve read the other books in this series you will definitely see June in a different light. She’s still the highly intelligent, low emotional, straightforward, no-nonsense character, but there is so much more to her. Once she finds someone that understands and accepts her, she just blossoms. You’ll learn of some more twists and turns in the Callie Kendall subplot, and in the process you’ll also learn that June is a little bit of a bad-ass. I really didn’t know what to expect, but this story surpassed everything I could’ve hoped for.
If you haven’t read any of Bootleg Springs series, this book is the 4th in the series. Each book is about a different couple and could be read as a standalone. Trust me when I tell you to just read the entire series. You won’t be lost if you just read this one but it will be so much more enjoyable if you have read all of the series. I cannot recommend this series enough. This is one of my all-time favorite series! Go get this book and get this series. Once you devour it you’ll be telling all your friends to go read it too.
December 22, 2018
Have you ever read a book and been sooooooo sad that it's over? This book did that to me. I don't have the words to adequately express my love for it.
Bourbon Bliss is book 4 in the Bootleg Springs series. Its June's turn, and HOLY SWOONY George. They were so fahreaking adorable I can't even stand it. June had a hard time with other humans as she so eloquently calls them, and George quickly becomes her favorite one. The things he does for her...ugh. I need a George.
This story was everything. We got some more of the Callie case, though it didn't feel as prominent as with the other books, AND YET I have 1956391046 more questions. The little tid bits through the story that make Bootleg Springs, Bootleg Springs, shone and it just made me so happy.
I cannot wait to come back and get the rest of this story! What will Jonah do? Why is Gibson so angry? How does the grill stay put? What will Mona Lisa McNugget do next?
Bourbon Bliss is book 4 in the Bootleg Springs series. Its June's turn, and HOLY SWOONY George. They were so fahreaking adorable I can't even stand it. June had a hard time with other humans as she so eloquently calls them, and George quickly becomes her favorite one. The things he does for her...ugh. I need a George.
This story was everything. We got some more of the Callie case, though it didn't feel as prominent as with the other books, AND YET I have 1956391046 more questions. The little tid bits through the story that make Bootleg Springs, Bootleg Springs, shone and it just made me so happy.
I cannot wait to come back and get the rest of this story! What will Jonah do? Why is Gibson so angry? How does the grill stay put? What will Mona Lisa McNugget do next?
December 26, 2018
This is a fantastic story. The plot is great, the mystery is heating up and we get to visit with all the character of Bootleg Springs but what really made me love this book are the main characters. George and June are so special and perfect together. June is a fascinating character but she never believed she would find someone who understood her and accepted her just as she was. But George is that person, he more than accepted her, he loved everything about her! We all need a George in our lives!
The Bootleg Springs series is phenomenal. There is suspense and romance, great friendships and steaminess. I can't wait for the next two books!!
The Bootleg Springs series is phenomenal. There is suspense and romance, great friendships and steaminess. I can't wait for the next two books!!
December 24, 2018
Bourbon Bliss is the fourth book in the Bootleg Springs series, which frankly is one of the best series currently in this genre. These authors have created a fictional town that is so real and full of vibrant, fun, quirky, amazing characters. This is June Tucker's story and what a story it is. June's character has been different from the beginning, with her high intelligence and logical point of view setting her apart from the others. Her family and friends have always included June, but she knows she is different and for the most part had come to terms with it. Enter GT Thompson. This is a man who is going to change her world and in such an amazing way. What I enjoyed about this story was really watching June come into her own and blossom into the person I think she always wanted to be but didn't know how to become. The authors have done such an incredible job writing these characters that as a reader you are rooting for them to win and cry with them over the disappointments and hurts. GT is the perfect match for June. He is patient, kind and he sees the real June and likes her for who she is. Their love story was sweet, tender, steamy, romantic and a bit rocky in a few places - everything you want from this type of story.
The authors also threw in a few new twists having to do with the disappearance of Callie Kendall which will keep the readers on their toes and conspiracy theories flying. There's also some Bootleg Justice served up.
This is an amazing series and I would highly recommend it to anyone. You will fall in love with Bootleg Springs, the Bodines and the townspeople.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the author.
The authors also threw in a few new twists having to do with the disappearance of Callie Kendall which will keep the readers on their toes and conspiracy theories flying. There's also some Bootleg Justice served up.
This is an amazing series and I would highly recommend it to anyone. You will fall in love with Bootleg Springs, the Bodines and the townspeople.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the author.
January 4, 2019
Honestly, I am struggling to write this review. Not because there is anything wrong with this book, but because EVERYTHING is so perfectly RIGHT with it. June's character is a bit of an enigma to me. She is analytical, rational, and has an uncanny ability to see the math in everyday happenings and objects. Her disinterest in forming new friendships or spending copious amounts of time nurturing relationships is where I can relate to her. June, even in her lack of desire to socialize, is warm, kind, caring, and loyal. She is a refreshing break from the usual emotional thinkers.
George the man, not the cat is a hot, hot, hot retired football player visiting Bootleg Springs for the hot springs. His fascination with June gives me the warm and fuzzies all over. His patience is something similar to that of a saint. This entire series is so very well written. The Callie Kendall case, sizzling relationships, and zany townspeople keep me coming back for more!
George the man, not the cat is a hot, hot, hot retired football player visiting Bootleg Springs for the hot springs. His fascination with June gives me the warm and fuzzies all over. His patience is something similar to that of a saint. This entire series is so very well written. The Callie Kendall case, sizzling relationships, and zany townspeople keep me coming back for more!
January 3, 2019
I have never made a secret of my love for all things Bootleg Springs. I seriously love this series so much. With swoony romances, a quirky small town, amazing family and friendships, and a mystery that keeps me guessing, what’s not to love? Absolutely nothing! Bourbon Bliss is the fourth book in the series, and it is absolutely amazing.
I have been intrigued by June since the beginning of the series. She’s the quirky girl who is always on the outskirts. She is extremely literal and smart, but she is also funny and loyal to those she loves. I have been looking forward to this book for so long, but I’ve also been a little nervous for it to get here. Sometimes authors take the quirky character and either show us that they really weren’t that quirky afterall (you know, the misunderstood character), or they go so overboard with the quirkiness that the character becomes unbelievable, a caricature. However, my faith in Claire and Lucy told me to keep my hopes up. I’m so glad I did, because Claire has done our June Bug justice.
George and June are one of my favorite couples. Watching their love grow was so sweet and HOT! George was completely adorable. I mean who wouldn’t love a huge football player with a tiny bunny? I loved his patience and understanding. He got June. He saw her for who she was and didn’t try to change her. He didn’t love her for her quirks or in spite of them. He simply loved her. And I loved him for that! And June didn’t want George for his fame or status. She saw the man beneath it all. The man most of the world wasn’t all that interested in. I loved watching her get flustered by him. Watching her wrap her head around her feelings was adorable and occasionally heartbreaking.
Both of these characters had so much depth. I felt like we were peeling back layer after layer to see what they were really made of throughout this story. I think they were discovering who they were along the way too. I loved getting to see them in different lights. I also loved getting to see the rest of the Bodines and Tuckers. These two families are so intertwined, and I love each and every one of them.
The Callie Kendall investigation continues, and this book took us on so many twists and turns. I absolute love finding new clues and using them to update my theory on what happened. I can’t wait for new books and new evidence, but I’m also dreading finding out what happened because it will mean the end of Bootleg Springs. I’m not ready to let them go! Luckily, we still have two more books to look forward to!
I could go on and on about everything I love in this book and this series, but really, you need to grab a copy and experience it for yourself. The writing is fantastic, the characters are lovable, the town is quirky and fun, the romances will make you swoon, and the mystery will have you digging for clues! While you could read this as a standalone, I highly recommend starting at the beginning and bingeing your way through. Once you start, you won’t be able to stop!
I have been intrigued by June since the beginning of the series. She’s the quirky girl who is always on the outskirts. She is extremely literal and smart, but she is also funny and loyal to those she loves. I have been looking forward to this book for so long, but I’ve also been a little nervous for it to get here. Sometimes authors take the quirky character and either show us that they really weren’t that quirky afterall (you know, the misunderstood character), or they go so overboard with the quirkiness that the character becomes unbelievable, a caricature. However, my faith in Claire and Lucy told me to keep my hopes up. I’m so glad I did, because Claire has done our June Bug justice.
George and June are one of my favorite couples. Watching their love grow was so sweet and HOT! George was completely adorable. I mean who wouldn’t love a huge football player with a tiny bunny? I loved his patience and understanding. He got June. He saw her for who she was and didn’t try to change her. He didn’t love her for her quirks or in spite of them. He simply loved her. And I loved him for that! And June didn’t want George for his fame or status. She saw the man beneath it all. The man most of the world wasn’t all that interested in. I loved watching her get flustered by him. Watching her wrap her head around her feelings was adorable and occasionally heartbreaking.
Both of these characters had so much depth. I felt like we were peeling back layer after layer to see what they were really made of throughout this story. I think they were discovering who they were along the way too. I loved getting to see them in different lights. I also loved getting to see the rest of the Bodines and Tuckers. These two families are so intertwined, and I love each and every one of them.
The Callie Kendall investigation continues, and this book took us on so many twists and turns. I absolute love finding new clues and using them to update my theory on what happened. I can’t wait for new books and new evidence, but I’m also dreading finding out what happened because it will mean the end of Bootleg Springs. I’m not ready to let them go! Luckily, we still have two more books to look forward to!
I could go on and on about everything I love in this book and this series, but really, you need to grab a copy and experience it for yourself. The writing is fantastic, the characters are lovable, the town is quirky and fun, the romances will make you swoon, and the mystery will have you digging for clues! While you could read this as a standalone, I highly recommend starting at the beginning and bingeing your way through. Once you start, you won’t be able to stop!
June 11, 2019
George "GT" Thompson is at a cross roads. He just had a second knee injury that has brought his great football career to an end. His sister tells him about some hot springs in Bootleg Springs that might help his recovery and with time on his hands he goes to the small town. When he finds it he is surprised by a woman who says that it was her time for the springs and that he didn't sign in for a slot. Already soaking he ask if he can stay and she join him, he is surprised she does especially considering he is naked and wonders if she notices. He finds her very attractive and the conversation they share intrigues him.
June Tucker is a Bootleg Springs resident born and raised. She is someone who is genius level smart but is unfortunately very bad with people. She often doesn't understand people but her family especially her sister make her socialize even though people don't always get her very straight forward and sometime abrupt way of conversation. When she meets George, she does notice his state of undress as well as the erection he can't hide. She knows who he is due to her love of academic love of football.
When they meet again June starts to experience feelings for him that she doesn't understand and has never felt before. George is taken with her and she doesn't understand why do to many people thinking her strange and as well as not quite knowing how to take her way of straight talk. But they both are starting to fall but they run into troubles along the way as well as a old mystery that has taken a new turn.
I have to say I did enjoy this book but I also had some issues. I think for me it was enough of a standalone that I could follow it but not reading the other books made me feel like I was missing things especially when it comes to the old missing person case that features heavy in this one.
June was a likable character. She reminded me of the woman from Bones in how she behaved. The problem I kinda had was her obsession with the case but honestly it felt like filler more than anything. I liked them spending time but it felt like the did the case stuff to give them more story. I think I liked her trying to understand the new things she was feeling and dealing with in this new relationship more than her need to know about the case.
George was a awesome hero and the part with his assistant fit the case many in the sports field can go thru. I don't think it made him stupid per se but it made him come across as a little lazy or trusting to much in one person and not handling your stuff. He was stupid though in some missteps in his relationship with June.
So for me good but felt a little boring because of it feeling more stretched due to trying to make a longer story.
June Tucker is a Bootleg Springs resident born and raised. She is someone who is genius level smart but is unfortunately very bad with people. She often doesn't understand people but her family especially her sister make her socialize even though people don't always get her very straight forward and sometime abrupt way of conversation. When she meets George, she does notice his state of undress as well as the erection he can't hide. She knows who he is due to her love of academic love of football.
When they meet again June starts to experience feelings for him that she doesn't understand and has never felt before. George is taken with her and she doesn't understand why do to many people thinking her strange and as well as not quite knowing how to take her way of straight talk. But they both are starting to fall but they run into troubles along the way as well as a old mystery that has taken a new turn.
I have to say I did enjoy this book but I also had some issues. I think for me it was enough of a standalone that I could follow it but not reading the other books made me feel like I was missing things especially when it comes to the old missing person case that features heavy in this one.
June was a likable character. She reminded me of the woman from Bones in how she behaved. The problem I kinda had was her obsession with the case but honestly it felt like filler more than anything. I liked them spending time but it felt like the did the case stuff to give them more story. I think I liked her trying to understand the new things she was feeling and dealing with in this new relationship more than her need to know about the case.
George was a awesome hero and the part with his assistant fit the case many in the sports field can go thru. I don't think it made him stupid per se but it made him come across as a little lazy or trusting to much in one person and not handling your stuff. He was stupid though in some missteps in his relationship with June.
So for me good but felt a little boring because of it feeling more stretched due to trying to make a longer story.
January 6, 2019
I have been anticipating June’s story for awhile now and the wait was so worth it! While we were getting to know June in the previous books, I was really curious what type of man would understand her. George was just perfect for her.
June Tucker has always been a bit different, she is highly intelligent and very literal with everything. She herself admits she does not understand human emotions that well. But once George GT Thompson comes into town, and she has these strange symptoms, her first thought was she was getting sick. It was hilarious and sweet. As for George he was instantly fascinated with her. He appreciated her way of thinking and her straightforwardness. And as they kept getting to know each other, his fascination continues to grow as does his feelings for her. He just gets her. What I absolutely loved about George was how he used June’s love of math to show his feelings for her. It was awesome! And his love for Mellow, talk about swoony!
Then we also get some twists and turns regarding the case of Callie Kendall. Even though June says she doesn’t understand human emotions, but she shows it. She is loyal and she cares for her town, so Scooby-June is born. Loved it! And of course, we had so see some Bootleg Justice, I so love June’s brain!
Now it is the painful wait for then next book. I really need to know about Gibson, there are so many theories out there and they are all intriguing!
I love this book so much, definitely my favorite in the series so far. Highly recommend!
June Tucker has always been a bit different, she is highly intelligent and very literal with everything. She herself admits she does not understand human emotions that well. But once George GT Thompson comes into town, and she has these strange symptoms, her first thought was she was getting sick. It was hilarious and sweet. As for George he was instantly fascinated with her. He appreciated her way of thinking and her straightforwardness. And as they kept getting to know each other, his fascination continues to grow as does his feelings for her. He just gets her. What I absolutely loved about George was how he used June’s love of math to show his feelings for her. It was awesome! And his love for Mellow, talk about swoony!
Then we also get some twists and turns regarding the case of Callie Kendall. Even though June says she doesn’t understand human emotions, but she shows it. She is loyal and she cares for her town, so Scooby-June is born. Loved it! And of course, we had so see some Bootleg Justice, I so love June’s brain!
Now it is the painful wait for then next book. I really need to know about Gibson, there are so many theories out there and they are all intriguing!
I love this book so much, definitely my favorite in the series so far. Highly recommend!
January 4, 2019
To say that I loved this book would be a huge understatement! I am obsessed with the Bootleg Springs series, and my have begged (shamelessly) for an ARC of June and GT. And let me just say. . . Claire outdid herself with this one. June is one of my favorite secondary characters from the series, and with all secondary characters, there's always the hesitation: will I like them as much as I think I like them? The answer in this case is: OMG YES. June is everything. George (GT) is the hero we all want. When they meet--okay, no spoilers, but I will say that I was nearly crying from laughter.
If you buy no other book this January, you need Bourbon Bliss on your e-reader. Like, yesterday. It's fun, it's sexy, it's romantic, and truthfully, I'm going to need more stars for this book because I adored it!
If you buy no other book this January, you need Bourbon Bliss on your e-reader. Like, yesterday. It's fun, it's sexy, it's romantic, and truthfully, I'm going to need more stars for this book because I adored it!
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