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Tucker Springs #7
It's Complicated
After their umpteenth breakup, Brad Sweeney and Jeff Hayden are living apart and starting over from scratch. The morning after a promising first date, they’re more optimistic than ever that they can make it work this time. Until Jeff’s ex-wife and business partner calls to announce she’s pregnant… with Jeff’s baby. Brad’s already competing with a demanding business for Jeff’s time. Now there’s a baby on the way, and worse, he’s afraid Jeff is still carrying a torch for the woman who’s carrying his child. Jeff is desperately trying to keep everything in his life together, but before he can even get his head around the news that he’s going to be a father, his ex announces she wants to leave Tucker Springs. Now he has to either take over her role at the shop while ferrying the baby back and forth from Denver, or move the business—and himself—with her. Brad and Jeff knew reconciliation wouldn’t be easy, but they’re rapidly running out of room for compromise. And sooner or later, something has to give. This previously published book is #7 in the Tucker Springs series, and can be read as a standalone.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2014
26 people are currently reading
568 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Witt
218 books2,724 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
December 22, 2014
*1.5 stars*
L.A. Witt is hit or miss for me. I adore her collaborations but sometimes her solo work falls flat. In the case of this book, I have to be honest with you all and with myself. My rating is based on my enjoyment of the story and I really didn't enjoy this one.
I don't like couples bickering, not in fiction and not in real life. Nothing makes me more uncomfortable than being a party and listening to a couple have at each other. Awkward! This book was like one long fighting sequence. They fight, they say they shouldn't be together, they break up, then they get back together, yadda yadda yadda. I honestly wanted the guys to call it quits at 25% in but I forced myself to read on. My relationship philosophy is: If the shoe fits, wear it, but if you are trying to jam your foot into a pair of ballet slippers that are two sizes too small, find another pair of shoes.
Technically, I also had a few problems with the book. I had a lot of difficulty with the alternating first person POVs. I didn't think that the two voices were distinct enough for that format, and I often got confused as to who was talking. I also thought that the story lacked a proper story arc. It was a flat storyline with little happening (other than the fighting) in terms of plot. I found myself growing bored and my attention wandered.
In terms of the couple themselves, I didn't like how Jeff kept calling Christine "baby", though he was supposed to be reinforcing the fact that he currently has a platonic relationship with her. I know I'd be nads-punching my husband if he called an ex "baby", regardless of how benign it was. There were also a ton of communication issues between Jeff and Brad, which I found tedious rather than interesting. I also didn't like how cavalier Jeff was about the risks of unprotected sex with more than one person, which is a one of my major book pet peeves.
What can I say, I didn't like this one. L.A. Witt will remain an author that I'll always buy, but this book just rubbed me the wrong way. I know this book has tons of fans so take my opinion with a monster-sized grain of salt.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
L.A. Witt is hit or miss for me. I adore her collaborations but sometimes her solo work falls flat. In the case of this book, I have to be honest with you all and with myself. My rating is based on my enjoyment of the story and I really didn't enjoy this one.
I don't like couples bickering, not in fiction and not in real life. Nothing makes me more uncomfortable than being a party and listening to a couple have at each other. Awkward! This book was like one long fighting sequence. They fight, they say they shouldn't be together, they break up, then they get back together, yadda yadda yadda. I honestly wanted the guys to call it quits at 25% in but I forced myself to read on. My relationship philosophy is: If the shoe fits, wear it, but if you are trying to jam your foot into a pair of ballet slippers that are two sizes too small, find another pair of shoes.
Technically, I also had a few problems with the book. I had a lot of difficulty with the alternating first person POVs. I didn't think that the two voices were distinct enough for that format, and I often got confused as to who was talking. I also thought that the story lacked a proper story arc. It was a flat storyline with little happening (other than the fighting) in terms of plot. I found myself growing bored and my attention wandered.
In terms of the couple themselves, I didn't like how Jeff kept calling Christine "baby", though he was supposed to be reinforcing the fact that he currently has a platonic relationship with her. I know I'd be nads-punching my husband if he called an ex "baby", regardless of how benign it was. There were also a ton of communication issues between Jeff and Brad, which I found tedious rather than interesting. I also didn't like how cavalier Jeff was about the risks of unprotected sex with more than one person, which is a one of my major book pet peeves.
What can I say, I didn't like this one. L.A. Witt will remain an author that I'll always buy, but this book just rubbed me the wrong way. I know this book has tons of fans so take my opinion with a monster-sized grain of salt.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
April 21, 2014
Confession…
I haven’t read the 'Tucker Springs' series yet.
*cringes* I know, I know I need to fix this straightaway. Reading mid-series is a huge no-no for me, but on a whim I snagged this one. I am pretty pleased I did. Obviously Jeff and Brad have an angst drenched past, we're talking Niagara Falls soaked. I’m not exactly sure everything their baggage consists of, but it certainly is caustic. I think I enjoyed it more fast-forwarding over their drama and focusing on healing stage. However I do plan on hitting reverse and catching the rest of the series.
Complicated: difficult to analyze, understand, or explain.
Uh huh, that would be a nail on the head for the relationship in this book. Complex doesn’t even begin to describe them. Love isn’t the problem. Brad and Jeff both love each other immensely and desperately want to succeed in this final attempt to salvage them. If only love was enough.
A replay of their first date brings the passion out in full force. Attempts to keep things cool fly out the window and their spark takes off like a forest fire. One thing they have down pat is sex, but it appears attraction was never a problem. It’s the little things which escalated into big things that drove them apart before and now they both are tiptoeing around possible triggers. If things aren’t fragile enough, a huge bomb is dropped into their bed during their homecoming celebration.
I hate to pick sides, but I think Jeff is…difficult. Often I felt sorry for Brad and understand why things ended up heading down the minefield path they are on. Jeff is bisexual and best friends with his ex-wife. Wait, not only best friends, but business partners. Hours upon hours spent with each other, often alone. Not surprising that during one of his ‘breaks’ from Brad they had an impromptu night of passion. So, if cheating is a concern of yours, rest assured no cheating occurs. A baby certainly throws a wrench into their future, but the bigger question remains, can they make it past tomorrow?
I believe the worst part, or possibly the hardest part, is they both anticipate failure. As much as they want to be together, neither of them believes they will go all the way this time. Paranoia, doubt and resentment have them singing the same old song. Something’s gotta bend or this relationship recovery mission will be over before it even starts.
An angst ridden sexy ride which left me totally exhausted, but I don’t have any regrets. If you are a fan of the Tucker Springs boys I imagine you'll want to see if they arrive at the finish line together or not.
*3.5 tricky-tense-taxing stars*
I haven’t read the 'Tucker Springs' series yet.
*cringes* I know, I know I need to fix this straightaway. Reading mid-series is a huge no-no for me, but on a whim I snagged this one. I am pretty pleased I did. Obviously Jeff and Brad have an angst drenched past, we're talking Niagara Falls soaked. I’m not exactly sure everything their baggage consists of, but it certainly is caustic. I think I enjoyed it more fast-forwarding over their drama and focusing on healing stage. However I do plan on hitting reverse and catching the rest of the series.
Complicated: difficult to analyze, understand, or explain.
Uh huh, that would be a nail on the head for the relationship in this book. Complex doesn’t even begin to describe them. Love isn’t the problem. Brad and Jeff both love each other immensely and desperately want to succeed in this final attempt to salvage them. If only love was enough.
A replay of their first date brings the passion out in full force. Attempts to keep things cool fly out the window and their spark takes off like a forest fire. One thing they have down pat is sex, but it appears attraction was never a problem. It’s the little things which escalated into big things that drove them apart before and now they both are tiptoeing around possible triggers. If things aren’t fragile enough, a huge bomb is dropped into their bed during their homecoming celebration.
I hate to pick sides, but I think Jeff is…difficult. Often I felt sorry for Brad and understand why things ended up heading down the minefield path they are on. Jeff is bisexual and best friends with his ex-wife. Wait, not only best friends, but business partners. Hours upon hours spent with each other, often alone. Not surprising that during one of his ‘breaks’ from Brad they had an impromptu night of passion. So, if cheating is a concern of yours, rest assured no cheating occurs. A baby certainly throws a wrench into their future, but the bigger question remains, can they make it past tomorrow?
I believe the worst part, or possibly the hardest part, is they both anticipate failure. As much as they want to be together, neither of them believes they will go all the way this time. Paranoia, doubt and resentment have them singing the same old song. Something’s gotta bend or this relationship recovery mission will be over before it even starts.
An angst ridden sexy ride which left me totally exhausted, but I don’t have any regrets. If you are a fan of the Tucker Springs boys I imagine you'll want to see if they arrive at the finish line together or not.
*3.5 tricky-tense-taxing stars*
Read
March 5, 2015My fourth contribution to the Tucker Springs series.
A few people have asked about the bisexuality angle, so I wanted to clarify: the only sex in the book is M/M.
A few people have asked about the bisexuality angle, so I wanted to clarify: the only sex in the book is M/M.
dnf-not-4-me
October 11, 2014I'm going to go ahead and pass on this one. The blurb makes this book sound like a cluster fuck I want no part of. Yikes!
May 22, 2014
5.0 Unputdownable factor
-2.0 Reason I couldn't put it down: constant state of nuh-uh!
-1.0 Overall fucktardedness
-0.5 Pissed me off
----
1.5 Stars
Brad Sweeny and Jeff Hayden ... What. A. Mess. They are a DISASTER! I'm sorry, but it's true. I was 18% of the way into this book when I thought, "Um, isn't this the end?" It was about the time that Brad found out that Jeff got his ex-wife/business partner pregos ... about 7 weeks prior. I believe in second chances but for a couple on their new "first date" ... um, I think that's one big, ass neon sign that says, "She-ah! This one's a bust!" I fully expected Brad to say, "Well good luck with that. Don't let the door hit your ass on the way out!" But noooooooooo, Brad said, "It's okay! I'll be here for you." WTF!?! That's self-imposed misery in my book. Sympathy points? Zilch.
The following 80+% of the book was non-stop fighting and bickering. I WANTED Brad and Jeff to throw in the towel so badly and put me out of my misery. I didn't appreciate Christine as much as L.A. Witt intended. The whole thing felt liked a fucked up bifurcated thrupple ... plus one because there's a baby on the way! Ugh. Nightmare. Jeff was a loser and Christine and Brad were double losers for hooking up with him in the fist, second, and what-the-fuck-ever-number of places.
Bottom line: I love the Tucker Springs series but this one was a bust.
-2.0 Reason I couldn't put it down: constant state of nuh-uh!
-1.0 Overall fucktardedness
-0.5 Pissed me off
----
1.5 Stars
Brad Sweeny and Jeff Hayden ... What. A. Mess. They are a DISASTER! I'm sorry, but it's true. I was 18% of the way into this book when I thought, "Um, isn't this the end?" It was about the time that Brad found out that Jeff got his ex-wife/business partner pregos ... about 7 weeks prior. I believe in second chances but for a couple on their new "first date" ... um, I think that's one big, ass neon sign that says, "She-ah! This one's a bust!" I fully expected Brad to say, "Well good luck with that. Don't let the door hit your ass on the way out!" But noooooooooo, Brad said, "It's okay! I'll be here for you." WTF!?! That's self-imposed misery in my book. Sympathy points? Zilch.
The following 80+% of the book was non-stop fighting and bickering. I WANTED Brad and Jeff to throw in the towel so badly and put me out of my misery. I didn't appreciate Christine as much as L.A. Witt intended. The whole thing felt liked a fucked up bifurcated thrupple ... plus one because there's a baby on the way! Ugh. Nightmare. Jeff was a loser and Christine and Brad were double losers for hooking up with him in the fist, second, and what-the-fuck-ever-number of places.
Bottom line: I love the Tucker Springs series but this one was a bust.
April 2, 2024
What a shit show
November 14, 2020
2.5 🌟’s This read was totally exhausting! 🙄🤯 Jeff and his ex wife worked together 10 plus hours a day she regretted them getting a divorce, I would say Brad had a reason to feel jealous. Did I forget to mention they also had sex when Brad and Jeff were supposed to be on a break from each other?!
?! Ridiculous.. 😤
?! Ridiculous.. 😤
May 9, 2014
It wasn't lying when this book was titled It's Complicated! This is the story of trying to repair a relationship while dealing with a whole mess of issues.
I haven't read many m/m romances which are focused on an established couple sorting through relationship issues - their ups and downs, arguments, hot make-up sex, stress and worry - so it was nice to read something a bit different for a change.
I've always enjoyed this series so was looking forward to getting a glimpse of some characters from the past books - although to be truthful, I wasn't really taken with them and struggled a little bit to see the relevance to the story. The group played a role in enabling Brad to do something that Jeff wasn't happy with, causing yet another argument, but what I really wanted was for some more interaction and support.
Brad and Jeff have been together for years but their relationship has been tested by their continual arguments. When the story starts, they are living apart but making an effort to get back together by slowly dating again and trying to sort out the reasons for their issues. But just as they start down this path, new obstacles are thrown in their way. The ramifications of one night Jeff spent with his ex-wife come back to haunt him - the resulting pregnancy has him facing some big decisions about his business, the baby, where he's going to live and the role Brad will play in this life.
Overall it was an enjoyable story with lots of emotional discussions between the two men, interspersed with some sizzling sex and I appreciated the way Christine was portrayed. She had the potential to be one of those characters you just wanted to hate but she wasn't.
3.5 stars
A copy of this book was received from the publisher via Netgalley in return for my honest review.
For m/m romance reviews and more check out Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
I haven't read many m/m romances which are focused on an established couple sorting through relationship issues - their ups and downs, arguments, hot make-up sex, stress and worry - so it was nice to read something a bit different for a change.
I've always enjoyed this series so was looking forward to getting a glimpse of some characters from the past books - although to be truthful, I wasn't really taken with them and struggled a little bit to see the relevance to the story. The group played a role in enabling Brad to do something that Jeff wasn't happy with, causing yet another argument, but what I really wanted was for some more interaction and support.
Brad and Jeff have been together for years but their relationship has been tested by their continual arguments. When the story starts, they are living apart but making an effort to get back together by slowly dating again and trying to sort out the reasons for their issues. But just as they start down this path, new obstacles are thrown in their way. The ramifications of one night Jeff spent with his ex-wife come back to haunt him - the resulting pregnancy has him facing some big decisions about his business, the baby, where he's going to live and the role Brad will play in this life.
Overall it was an enjoyable story with lots of emotional discussions between the two men, interspersed with some sizzling sex and I appreciated the way Christine was portrayed. She had the potential to be one of those characters you just wanted to hate but she wasn't.
3.5 stars
A copy of this book was received from the publisher via Netgalley in return for my honest review.
For m/m romance reviews and more check out Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
April 18, 2014
It's Complicated, L.A.Witt.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
My second visit to Tucker Springs, and it was great to see more of Nathan and Ryan, I loved their story. So – what a nightmare for any couple, when one partner finds out he's made his ex pregnant, from a one night, impetuous fling when they were on a break....but when your partner is another man just think how he feels. Poor Brad is so in love with Jeff, but they seem to be in a rut of rows, breaks and reconciliations. He's already jealous of Jeff's ex Christine, they share a business and have to work long hours, and lets be honest – who wouldn't have that momentary doubt in that situation, even if you do think you trust the other person...then poor Brad's worst nightmare comes true with the news of the baby. He's insecure already, Jeff won't commit yet to marriage or adoption with him, and yet Christine has had the marriage, though they’re now divorced, and with a child on the way there's another tie to her that makes him feel further down the list of priorities.
They're a great couple and I really felt for Brad. He loves Jeff, but his jealousy is understandable to me....and then of course it seems as though its vindicated, just at the moment they're attempting a reconciliation. I felt Jeff could have been a bit more understanding – he seemed to feel that Brads jealousy was unfounded, and it appeared to irritate him when it was mentioned, but anyone working long hours, often into early morning, would create friction with a partner. Then Christine says she's moving to Denver to be closer to her family. That leaves Jeff to decide if ferrying a child back and forth is a solution, something both are worried might prove difficult for them and the child, and which still leaves him with even more time restraints. It means he'll be working even longer hours covering Christine's time too, and already his hours are a source of friction, or should he move himself and the business closer. Where does that leave Brad though – feeling lower down the line than ever :-( Jeff won't seek professional help though Brad's keen for them to see a counsellor, he feels it will help them sort out the problems they already have, let alone this new hiccup. Jeff is adamant he doesn't trust them, tried that with Christine and he feels that made they situation worse. I think he's being really unfair, and his intransigence doesn't help reassure Brad that he's a priority. You can say all you like that you love someone but when there are problems action is needed too, and only Brad is willing to take that it seems.
Its a story full of questions to which there don't seem to be answers, whichever way they move someone is going to be left unhappy. I puzzled over different solutions but couldn't come up with any if things stayed as they were, but L.A. As always finds an answer that fits perfectly and though its hard work everyone is happy.
Stars: Four, great read. I was a little edgy after the pregnant ex angle but its a one night, unintended time, when they were both stressed after working late and he and Brad were on a break so not cheating as such. Though that adds to some books, there were already enough problems for them to deal with and that really would have been a step to far IMO.
ARC supplied via netgalley
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
My second visit to Tucker Springs, and it was great to see more of Nathan and Ryan, I loved their story. So – what a nightmare for any couple, when one partner finds out he's made his ex pregnant, from a one night, impetuous fling when they were on a break....but when your partner is another man just think how he feels. Poor Brad is so in love with Jeff, but they seem to be in a rut of rows, breaks and reconciliations. He's already jealous of Jeff's ex Christine, they share a business and have to work long hours, and lets be honest – who wouldn't have that momentary doubt in that situation, even if you do think you trust the other person...then poor Brad's worst nightmare comes true with the news of the baby. He's insecure already, Jeff won't commit yet to marriage or adoption with him, and yet Christine has had the marriage, though they’re now divorced, and with a child on the way there's another tie to her that makes him feel further down the list of priorities.
They're a great couple and I really felt for Brad. He loves Jeff, but his jealousy is understandable to me....and then of course it seems as though its vindicated, just at the moment they're attempting a reconciliation. I felt Jeff could have been a bit more understanding – he seemed to feel that Brads jealousy was unfounded, and it appeared to irritate him when it was mentioned, but anyone working long hours, often into early morning, would create friction with a partner. Then Christine says she's moving to Denver to be closer to her family. That leaves Jeff to decide if ferrying a child back and forth is a solution, something both are worried might prove difficult for them and the child, and which still leaves him with even more time restraints. It means he'll be working even longer hours covering Christine's time too, and already his hours are a source of friction, or should he move himself and the business closer. Where does that leave Brad though – feeling lower down the line than ever :-( Jeff won't seek professional help though Brad's keen for them to see a counsellor, he feels it will help them sort out the problems they already have, let alone this new hiccup. Jeff is adamant he doesn't trust them, tried that with Christine and he feels that made they situation worse. I think he's being really unfair, and his intransigence doesn't help reassure Brad that he's a priority. You can say all you like that you love someone but when there are problems action is needed too, and only Brad is willing to take that it seems.
Its a story full of questions to which there don't seem to be answers, whichever way they move someone is going to be left unhappy. I puzzled over different solutions but couldn't come up with any if things stayed as they were, but L.A. As always finds an answer that fits perfectly and though its hard work everyone is happy.
Stars: Four, great read. I was a little edgy after the pregnant ex angle but its a one night, unintended time, when they were both stressed after working late and he and Brad were on a break so not cheating as such. Though that adds to some books, there were already enough problems for them to deal with and that really would have been a step to far IMO.
ARC supplied via netgalley
May 7, 2014
I’m a big sucker for the Tucker Springs books and I just can’t help myself every time there’s a new one. I don’t even see what they are about; I just dive right in. For It’s Complicated, I did have the opportunity at GRL 2013 to hear L.A. Witt read a big revealing scene from early on in the story, and if you’ve read the blurb already, you can probably guess what scene that might be! So I knew a little about what I was getting in to. I will admit, established couples or reunion stories are not usually my go to reads when it comes to romance, as I prefer them to be stacked with sexual tension, but since I had already met Brad and Jeff in the previous book, After the Fall, I really wanted to see them get their HEA. And even though these guys appear in another book, I do believe this could be read as a standalone.
♦ Brad and Jeff sure did like to argue…over the silliest things! But they sure did know how to have some of the hottest make up sex. No sexual tension in this story, these two can’t stay out of bed long enough, even when they are mad at each other.
♦ This wasn’t as angsty as I was expecting. Yeah, Jeff did have sex with his ex-wife, Christine, while he and Brad were officially broken up, but she never intentionally tried to come between them. She was the cause of a few obstacles Brad and Jeff had to overcome, but there was never any malicious intent on her part. In fact, Christine was probably the #1 cheerleader for Brad and Jeff’s HEA.
♦ It was very sweet. I couldn’t help myself from liking both Brad and Jeff. Yes, they both had their faults, but it was obvious they were still in love with each other and neither of them every really wanted it to end.
♦ I’m usually okay with alternating 1st person POV with each chapter, but here I found it very difficult to distinguish between the two voices. I even found myself backtracking in the middle of a scene because I had forgotten whose POV I was reading. And forget about taking a break in the middle of a chapter!
♦I didn’t get to see Brad and Jeff making their relationship work. Instead, I got pages and pages and pages of them worrying and stressing and fighting and having makeup sex, and once they finally decide to make the changes in order for their relationship to actually work, the story jumps months ahead to the ending and to the expected HEA. I wanted to see them actually do it…work at it, see the counselor and make those compromises that will help their love last forever. So, yes, I feel a bit shorted because it seems to me I only got a long beginning and a brief ending with NO middle whatsoever. I really, really liked these guys and I wanted more from them.
In the end, I did enjoy Brad and Jeff’s story, I just wanted a bit more story.
3.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
♦ Brad and Jeff sure did like to argue…over the silliest things! But they sure did know how to have some of the hottest make up sex. No sexual tension in this story, these two can’t stay out of bed long enough, even when they are mad at each other.
♦ This wasn’t as angsty as I was expecting. Yeah, Jeff did have sex with his ex-wife, Christine, while he and Brad were officially broken up, but she never intentionally tried to come between them. She was the cause of a few obstacles Brad and Jeff had to overcome, but there was never any malicious intent on her part. In fact, Christine was probably the #1 cheerleader for Brad and Jeff’s HEA.
♦ It was very sweet. I couldn’t help myself from liking both Brad and Jeff. Yes, they both had their faults, but it was obvious they were still in love with each other and neither of them every really wanted it to end.
♦ I’m usually okay with alternating 1st person POV with each chapter, but here I found it very difficult to distinguish between the two voices. I even found myself backtracking in the middle of a scene because I had forgotten whose POV I was reading. And forget about taking a break in the middle of a chapter!
♦I didn’t get to see Brad and Jeff making their relationship work. Instead, I got pages and pages and pages of them worrying and stressing and fighting and having makeup sex, and once they finally decide to make the changes in order for their relationship to actually work, the story jumps months ahead to the ending and to the expected HEA. I wanted to see them actually do it…work at it, see the counselor and make those compromises that will help their love last forever. So, yes, I feel a bit shorted because it seems to me I only got a long beginning and a brief ending with NO middle whatsoever. I really, really liked these guys and I wanted more from them.
In the end, I did enjoy Brad and Jeff’s story, I just wanted a bit more story.
3.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
December 28, 2015
I'm happy to say I have finally worked my way through this series, but I'm sad to say that of all the books, I liked this the least.
I couldn't get emotionally invested in the bickering duo, No, just no.
I never warmed up to her at all, and Jeff was just okay, maybe adequate by the end. Brad I liked. Poor fool.
I couldn't get emotionally invested in the bickering duo, No, just no.
I never warmed up to her at all, and Jeff was just okay, maybe adequate by the end. Brad I liked. Poor fool.
March 3, 2021
When the author titled the book -- "It's Complicated" she meant... it's complicated and CONFUSING! grrrr
Now, as for the story... These two MCs exhausted me! I was about 1/3 of the way through the book when I happened upon the solution to most of Jeff and Brad's problems... unfortunately, it took them to almost the end of the story to figure it out! Talk about NOT being able to see outside of the box, or even outside of the little compartments they had put each other into... ugh!
I am glad that this wasn't the first book in the series (as I might not have made it to the second one) and I am sad to see that this was the last one. I felt that we didn't get the closure that would normally come with a series of this size ending, but hey... I'll survive! *grin*
Now, as for the story... These two MCs exhausted me! I was about 1/3 of the way through the book when I happened upon the solution to most of Jeff and Brad's problems... unfortunately, it took them to almost the end of the story to figure it out! Talk about NOT being able to see outside of the box, or even outside of the little compartments they had put each other into... ugh!
I am glad that this wasn't the first book in the series (as I might not have made it to the second one) and I am sad to see that this was the last one. I felt that we didn't get the closure that would normally come with a series of this size ending, but hey... I'll survive! *grin*
August 20, 2014
Of all the books in the series, of which I'm a huge fan, this installment was *exhausting* to read. It felt like I'd given birth by the last chapter.
I also found it a bit of a stretch that, even during a breakup, the guy who slept with his ex-wife and got her pregnant would get off quite so scott free. That would have been my, "Fuck you, I'm out" moment for sure.
The whole "it just happened" excuse never flies in my book. Yes, people just *let* it happen, but you don't just *accidentally* fall on someone's d*ck. Sorry, weak sauce of an excuse and I'm not buying it.
I also found it a bit of a stretch that, even during a breakup, the guy who slept with his ex-wife and got her pregnant would get off quite so scott free. That would have been my, "Fuck you, I'm out" moment for sure.
The whole "it just happened" excuse never flies in my book. Yes, people just *let* it happen, but you don't just *accidentally* fall on someone's d*ck. Sorry, weak sauce of an excuse and I'm not buying it.
January 17, 2024
Darum geht’s:
Brad und Jeff haben eine zermürbende Geschichte von Trennungen und Versöhnungen hinter sich. Gerade haben sie beschlossen, ihrer Liebe eine allerletzte Chance zu geben und noch einmal ganz von vorne anzufangen, als Jeffs Exfrau eine Nachricht hat, die ihr wackeliges Gleichgewicht komplett zum Einsturz bringen könnte.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Brad und Jeff haben eine zermürbende Geschichte von Trennungen und Versöhnungen hinter sich. Gerade haben sie beschlossen, ihrer Liebe eine allerletzte Chance zu geben und noch einmal ganz von vorne anzufangen, als Jeffs Exfrau eine Nachricht hat, die ihr wackeliges Gleichgewicht komplett zum Einsturz bringen könnte.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
June 13, 2014
This is a 3.5 star review
Normally I begin my reviews with a short recap of the story, but the blurb truly covered the story well. I have read all of the Tucker Springs books, so I have seen Jeff and Brad here and there throughout the series, and I was excited to read their story. I was curious to get all the details of the pregnancy and when it happened, I also couldn’t wait to see how these three people would work all of this mess out.
I did something that I rarely do before writing a review for a book. I went and read through some other reviews to see what the consensus is around the genre. Some comments I saw I agreed with and some, not so much.
The conception of Jeff’s baby was pretty straight forward, thank goodness. There was no cheating, but it seems a major bone of contention is the lack of a condom. I can see both sides of this argument, but I find myself falling into the “not a big deal” category. These two were married and have remained good friends and business partners since their divorce. I can realistically see them skipping the condom, not a big hang up for me. On the flip side of that, when Jeff resumed sleeping with Brad, he never told Brad about the unprotected sex with the ex and that, in my mind, was a total deal breaker.
Another point of contention for Brad was the fact that he felt Jeff had some unresolved feelings for his ex, and he feared that them having this baby would drive him back into her arms. I believe Ms. Witt did a great job working this point out between the three of them. There was even a very poignant conversation between Brad and Christine about any residual feelings there might have been, and I feel that went a long way to settle Brad’s fears.
There were only two things that really bothered me about this book, but they were pretty big, in my opinion. For most of the book Jeff seemed to be trying to play the poor-pitiful-me part, and that just didn’t wash with me. Jeff made the decision to sleep with his ex without protection. When she turns up pregnant, he seems to be more worried about how this is going to affect him and his business than he is with how Brad and Chris will be affected. One other thing that just drove me crazy was the fact that Jeff actually got mad at Brad for wanting to use a condom after he found out about the sex with the ex. At that point Jeff lost a lot of ground with me, and he just never seemed to gain that ground back.
I find it hard to believe that the three of them would have been able to work out their differences so easily. Out of the three MCs in this story, I felt the worst for Brad. He really tugged hard on my heart strings. I tried to imagine myself in his position, and I have to say I don’t think I could have been even half as understanding as he was. The man really was a freaking saint.
When I read the final chapter of this book, I was not able to buy what the author was selling. Without giving any spoilers, I will just say that not only no, but hell no, would I do what these three did at the end. Overall, this was a good story but not very realistic. I will still read any Tucker Springs books and any other books Ms. Witt writes, but this one just did not do it for me.
reviewed by Jackie at The Novel Approach
Normally I begin my reviews with a short recap of the story, but the blurb truly covered the story well. I have read all of the Tucker Springs books, so I have seen Jeff and Brad here and there throughout the series, and I was excited to read their story. I was curious to get all the details of the pregnancy and when it happened, I also couldn’t wait to see how these three people would work all of this mess out.
I did something that I rarely do before writing a review for a book. I went and read through some other reviews to see what the consensus is around the genre. Some comments I saw I agreed with and some, not so much.
The conception of Jeff’s baby was pretty straight forward, thank goodness. There was no cheating, but it seems a major bone of contention is the lack of a condom. I can see both sides of this argument, but I find myself falling into the “not a big deal” category. These two were married and have remained good friends and business partners since their divorce. I can realistically see them skipping the condom, not a big hang up for me. On the flip side of that, when Jeff resumed sleeping with Brad, he never told Brad about the unprotected sex with the ex and that, in my mind, was a total deal breaker.
Another point of contention for Brad was the fact that he felt Jeff had some unresolved feelings for his ex, and he feared that them having this baby would drive him back into her arms. I believe Ms. Witt did a great job working this point out between the three of them. There was even a very poignant conversation between Brad and Christine about any residual feelings there might have been, and I feel that went a long way to settle Brad’s fears.
There were only two things that really bothered me about this book, but they were pretty big, in my opinion. For most of the book Jeff seemed to be trying to play the poor-pitiful-me part, and that just didn’t wash with me. Jeff made the decision to sleep with his ex without protection. When she turns up pregnant, he seems to be more worried about how this is going to affect him and his business than he is with how Brad and Chris will be affected. One other thing that just drove me crazy was the fact that Jeff actually got mad at Brad for wanting to use a condom after he found out about the sex with the ex. At that point Jeff lost a lot of ground with me, and he just never seemed to gain that ground back.
I find it hard to believe that the three of them would have been able to work out their differences so easily. Out of the three MCs in this story, I felt the worst for Brad. He really tugged hard on my heart strings. I tried to imagine myself in his position, and I have to say I don’t think I could have been even half as understanding as he was. The man really was a freaking saint.
When I read the final chapter of this book, I was not able to buy what the author was selling. Without giving any spoilers, I will just say that not only no, but hell no, would I do what these three did at the end. Overall, this was a good story but not very realistic. I will still read any Tucker Springs books and any other books Ms. Witt writes, but this one just did not do it for me.
reviewed by Jackie at The Novel Approach
May 19, 2014
Where to start. I have to admit, L.A. Witt is a hit or miss for me. There are books of hers that I've loved to pieces and others I've forgotten days after reading. I haven't quite forgotten about this one, but I think you get which category it falls under.
So, Brad and Jeff. We're told at the beginning of the book that they've been together on and off for years. They have a healthy sex life, but minor frustrations, such as leaving a glass on the table without a coaster, can lead to huge screaming fights. Then they're on again. Then Jeff works too many hours a few too many days in a row. Cue screaming fight. Then they make-up. And so on. The story picks up during an attempt of theirs to get together and make a fresh start.
My main problem with the characters was that every time one of them was upset by something, they were both too afraid to discuss it so it wouldn't evolve into a huge fight again. Except for the ridiculous pregnancy twist towards the end, which would definitely constitute a reason to have a screaming fight in my opinion, I didn't really buy the whole:"we can't maintain a calm, peaceful relationship because something always happens to ruin things." Nothing happens folks. It's commonly known as incompatibility. I honestly thought these two are not meant to be together. When people fight about stupid stuff ALL THE TIME, a red flag is going on somewhere. Sometimes, you just can't force someone to understand your point of view. Sometimes, sexual chemistry can only carry you so long before the rest is just one huge pile-up of exhausting interactions with your other half. Sometimes, love isn't enough.
I know this sounds very negative, but I really believe that people can have their quirks and little things that bother them, but if they are a good match with their partner, the relationship shouldn't be so much work. Relationships are hard work, but not to the point of being just another stressful aspect of your life. That's not healthy. And that's what I didn't like about Jeff and Brad. They were both so very exhausted. They each made each other miserable by just...being. I really wish Brad would have stuck it out in one of the countless times he broke it off with Jeff and moved on. Because their relationship? Jeez, it reminds me of the type of desperate clinging that you experience in high school when you don't know any better and you just have to make it work . Actually, you don't. Sometimes it's just better to let go. And because of all of this, the story left me disappointed.
The writing was all right, so I am giving this 1 star for plot and 1 for the writing. I wouldn't recommend this story to fans of romance. However, it could potentially make an interesting study on unhealthy, beat-to-death relationships.
ARC received by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2014
The title certainly fits this story.
As he blurp states Brad and Jeff have been living apart ever since their latest break-up. However, they have decided to give it their all in their latest attempt to make their relationship work. Unfortunately, this time around they're bound to face a huge obstacle that could make or break their relationship.
Phew! Now that was quite a read. From the emotions running rampant, the sizzling chemistry the MC's shared coupled with the complexity of their latest situation, L.A. Witt certainly didn't pull any punches when she decided to tell Brad and Jeff's story.
Amongst the heartbreak there were many sweet moments, steamy encounters and frustrating events. I enjoyed it all, especially towards the second half of the story.
In the beginning, I did not like Jeff. To me, he wanted to have it all without giving anything in return while Brad continued to be understanding--fighting his conflicting emotions and facing uncertainty at every corner.
Thankfully, as the story progressed, Witt made sure that I could glimpse another side to Jeff. Slowly but surely he came to understand how important Brad was to him and how his absence would affect him if he didn't give his all in the relationship.
Although I like my MCs to fight for their relationship, sometimes it came to be too much and I started to doubt that these two could work out their differences and get back together. Of course, it helped that their chemistry was amazing and that I loved watching them together. The hot factor was present in all its glory and helped to bring another facet of the connection Brad and Jeff shared, which ultimately helped to convince me to stick it out and continue to cheer for them.
As always, Witt's writing was excellent. She brought about all the emotions one would expect from the situation Brad and Jeff found themselves in and paired it up with great interactions that at times were sweet and at other times were intense. I did feel that the conflict was resolved a bit too easily especially after taking into consideration all the heartbreak, confusion and uncertainty that Brad and Jeff went through in the time frame the story took place. However, I came to overlook it easily enough since the other elements in the story came together seamlessly when taking into consideration the story as a whole.
Keep in mind that although this is the seventh book in the Tucker Spring series, it can be read as a stand alone. But I recommend you don't miss out on any of the books in this lovely series, especially since it includes an interesting cast of characters and diversity in their stories.
All in all, an intense, emotion-driven story of forgiveness, acceptance and starting anew.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
As he blurp states Brad and Jeff have been living apart ever since their latest break-up. However, they have decided to give it their all in their latest attempt to make their relationship work. Unfortunately, this time around they're bound to face a huge obstacle that could make or break their relationship.
Phew! Now that was quite a read. From the emotions running rampant, the sizzling chemistry the MC's shared coupled with the complexity of their latest situation, L.A. Witt certainly didn't pull any punches when she decided to tell Brad and Jeff's story.
Amongst the heartbreak there were many sweet moments, steamy encounters and frustrating events. I enjoyed it all, especially towards the second half of the story.
In the beginning, I did not like Jeff. To me, he wanted to have it all without giving anything in return while Brad continued to be understanding--fighting his conflicting emotions and facing uncertainty at every corner.
Thankfully, as the story progressed, Witt made sure that I could glimpse another side to Jeff. Slowly but surely he came to understand how important Brad was to him and how his absence would affect him if he didn't give his all in the relationship.
Although I like my MCs to fight for their relationship, sometimes it came to be too much and I started to doubt that these two could work out their differences and get back together. Of course, it helped that their chemistry was amazing and that I loved watching them together. The hot factor was present in all its glory and helped to bring another facet of the connection Brad and Jeff shared, which ultimately helped to convince me to stick it out and continue to cheer for them.
As always, Witt's writing was excellent. She brought about all the emotions one would expect from the situation Brad and Jeff found themselves in and paired it up with great interactions that at times were sweet and at other times were intense. I did feel that the conflict was resolved a bit too easily especially after taking into consideration all the heartbreak, confusion and uncertainty that Brad and Jeff went through in the time frame the story took place. However, I came to overlook it easily enough since the other elements in the story came together seamlessly when taking into consideration the story as a whole.
Keep in mind that although this is the seventh book in the Tucker Spring series, it can be read as a stand alone. But I recommend you don't miss out on any of the books in this lovely series, especially since it includes an interesting cast of characters and diversity in their stories.
All in all, an intense, emotion-driven story of forgiveness, acceptance and starting anew.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
May 21, 2014
It's really complicated. L.A. Witt is a talented author and has written many books I really enjoyed. But she's also written a few books I couldn't really get into. This is one of them.
I see a pattern, it isn't the first time I have difficulties following who's POV it is. I would love for her to make her men a bit more different in their POVs.
Then - another reviewer has written it already - a relationship like this one isn't the one. Sure, people have to work to keep a relationship happy and healthy but for that it has to be that in the beginning.
It's very obvious that Jeff and Brad have a great sexual chemistry but the rest is hard work and a looooot of either compromising or suppress their emotions and opinions. They got so tired of even trying to be what the other one expected. Noone should try to be like the partner wants you. The partner should want you the way that you are.
Also, the conflict got only partially dissolved. There is still a child in Denver and a father and his partner in Tucker Springs.
While Christine most of the time was portrayed as the first to cheer for Brad and Jeff, a few moments made me question her sincerity and I felt uneasy around her.
For me as a person the best moment in the book was actually the moment Brad told Jeff that it was really over. And up to that moment I had only seen them together for the time of the book and was exhausted by their disfunctional relationship. Imagine that, they had been doing this dance for years.
So...I can't think of this a sucessful romance when I want them to split and find other partners. Hm...when I think of it, it doesn't matter to me if Jeff finds another guy/girl, I just realized while writing that I actually don't like him very much. Never met a more insensitive guy.
My heart aches for Brad. So...that's it.
Sorry, L.A. Witt....I actually feel bad for writing a 2 star review. But their "relationship" really goes against my deepest believes that if you have to work that hard for it (and don't want to commit), than it isn't the real thing because it's not the person who is loved but only parts and aspects of being a couple.
I see a pattern, it isn't the first time I have difficulties following who's POV it is. I would love for her to make her men a bit more different in their POVs.
Then - another reviewer has written it already - a relationship like this one isn't the one. Sure, people have to work to keep a relationship happy and healthy but for that it has to be that in the beginning.
It's very obvious that Jeff and Brad have a great sexual chemistry but the rest is hard work and a looooot of either compromising or suppress their emotions and opinions. They got so tired of even trying to be what the other one expected. Noone should try to be like the partner wants you. The partner should want you the way that you are.
Also, the conflict got only partially dissolved. There is still a child in Denver and a father and his partner in Tucker Springs.
While Christine most of the time was portrayed as the first to cheer for Brad and Jeff, a few moments made me question her sincerity and I felt uneasy around her.
For me as a person the best moment in the book was actually the moment Brad told Jeff that it was really over. And up to that moment I had only seen them together for the time of the book and was exhausted by their disfunctional relationship. Imagine that, they had been doing this dance for years.
So...I can't think of this a sucessful romance when I want them to split and find other partners. Hm...when I think of it, it doesn't matter to me if Jeff finds another guy/girl, I just realized while writing that I actually don't like him very much. Never met a more insensitive guy.
My heart aches for Brad. So...that's it.
Sorry, L.A. Witt....I actually feel bad for writing a 2 star review. But their "relationship" really goes against my deepest believes that if you have to work that hard for it (and don't want to commit), than it isn't the real thing because it's not the person who is loved but only parts and aspects of being a couple.
April 29, 2014
These are boys in crisis, and I feared they would not be able to work their way through it. Witt does a really great job of making their difficulties plausible so that no easy answer was obvious.
I liked the push and pull between the three protaganists. Because Christine is every bit a main character. I felt at times, the business she and Jeff owned was not described in enough detail and since it plays since a huge role in the story, I wanted to understand their commitment and connection to it better. Over the course of the novel, I grew to understand the type of work that was done, but more specific details would have helped to make that feel as real as the rest of the story.
Brad is mighty in love. It might seem like he gets the short straw all the time, but he has to take some responsiblity for their problems too. But I liked how he hung in there for as long as he could.
By the time Jeff works out what it was exactly he wants, I had figured out how he could have it all. Lucky bloke. He really gets to have it all.
Love Tucker Springs books. Wanted to see more boys more often. But this really is a story of Jeff and Brad (& Christine).
I liked the push and pull between the three protaganists. Because Christine is every bit a main character. I felt at times, the business she and Jeff owned was not described in enough detail and since it plays since a huge role in the story, I wanted to understand their commitment and connection to it better. Over the course of the novel, I grew to understand the type of work that was done, but more specific details would have helped to make that feel as real as the rest of the story.
Brad is mighty in love. It might seem like he gets the short straw all the time, but he has to take some responsiblity for their problems too. But I liked how he hung in there for as long as he could.
By the time Jeff works out what it was exactly he wants, I had figured out how he could have it all. Lucky bloke. He really gets to have it all.
Love Tucker Springs books. Wanted to see more boys more often. But this really is a story of Jeff and Brad (& Christine).
April 29, 2014
Not as bad as I thought it would be, well written but still didn't enjoy it much. Some parts, I expected; happened. But overall, okay if you like reads like this.
Pre-read thoughts: The book title says it all. It sounds so much like one of those "I still have feelings for her but I love him" books... Already disliking the bio; ...and move the business -and himself- with her . Already sounds like his "boyfriend" is the last one to be consider and first to be disregarded.
Unsure whether I'm going to read this one or not. They're on a break and he goes running back to the ex-wife without protection, does he even tell his partner when they get back together? Another kindle to flame. Not a story that sits well with me but we'll see what I feel like when it's released. I just hope it's not the ending I'm expecting; I hope the ex-wife isn't a constant or major character throughout....
Pre-read thoughts: The book title says it all. It sounds so much like one of those "I still have feelings for her but I love him" books... Already disliking the bio; ...and move the business -and himself- with her . Already sounds like his "boyfriend" is the last one to be consider and first to be disregarded.
Unsure whether I'm going to read this one or not. They're on a break and he goes running back to the ex-wife without protection, does he even tell his partner when they get back together? Another kindle to flame. Not a story that sits well with me but we'll see what I feel like when it's released. I just hope it's not the ending I'm expecting; I hope the ex-wife isn't a constant or major character throughout....
May 8, 2014
Okay, even now while writing the review I'm getting my confused over which one is Brad and which one is Jeff. I got lost a few times while reading trying to figure it out too and I'm not sure why but there is it.
Something about this one just didn't sit very well with me. They fought over the dumbest shit but then the big reveal and Brad's okay with the fact that he slept with his ex? What?!? Jeff just seemed to pile shit on top of shit on Brad, say I love you and expect Brad to take it. Um, no! I found almost the entire book very frustrating. Jeff got better towards the end but we didn't really get to see them actively working on it, more of a months passed and look how happy we are type thing. I did stay up way to late to finish so it wasn't a bad read just aggravating.
Something about this one just didn't sit very well with me. They fought over the dumbest shit but then the big reveal and Brad's okay with the fact that he slept with his ex? What?!? Jeff just seemed to pile shit on top of shit on Brad, say I love you and expect Brad to take it. Um, no! I found almost the entire book very frustrating. Jeff got better towards the end but we didn't really get to see them actively working on it, more of a months passed and look how happy we are type thing. I did stay up way to late to finish so it wasn't a bad read just aggravating.
June 1, 2014
2,5 stars.
This is one of those books I didn’t really enjoy. It was nice to be back in Tucker Springs but I just couldn’t connect with Jeff and Brad. The novel was literally just the two of them fighting, making up and having sex. The storyline was flat and I found myself growing bored.
I love the Tucker Springs series but this one just wasn’t my thing. I felt rather unsatisfied.
August 22, 2014
Um. Fuck this book.
I LOVE Witt. But after the last few books with THIS garbage as the cherry on top... i'm done.
I LOVE Witt. But after the last few books with THIS garbage as the cherry on top... i'm done.
April 26, 2014
Wow. What an emotional ride. I truly enjoyed this. Their situation touched me. I felt for them all. I am now an emotional wreck but in a good way.
October 5, 2014
3.5 stars
My biggest problem was that Brad and Jeff's voices felt the same. I couldn't tell them apart unless they said the other's name. It was annoying, but not bad. I liked the story.
My biggest problem was that Brad and Jeff's voices felt the same. I couldn't tell them apart unless they said the other's name. It was annoying, but not bad. I liked the story.
June 4, 2014
How many times must a couple break up before they decide it's truly over?
Seriously. The arguing, the unprotected sex, the not moving on from the wife. Just enough.
Seriously. The arguing, the unprotected sex, the not moving on from the wife. Just enough.
May 1, 2017
Somehow I actually really enjoyed reading this story. I liked that Brad and Jeff were a long term couple having troubles. It felt more true to real life. This is one of those cases where the history between these two men and how much they wanted to make their relationship work only enriched their love.
One thing was clear these two loved each other more than anything else. The rest was just figuring out what was really causing the issues between them. They needed to learn to communicate and to really dig deep to find what the base issue was. Both men had to learn to make sacrifices for each other, accept things needed to change in order for them to find the strength to let true love win.
This was a satisfying conclusion to this series. I really enjoyed all the stories in it. The diverse cast of characters was rich and I liked watching them all find their happily ever afters.
One thing was clear these two loved each other more than anything else. The rest was just figuring out what was really causing the issues between them. They needed to learn to communicate and to really dig deep to find what the base issue was. Both men had to learn to make sacrifices for each other, accept things needed to change in order for them to find the strength to let true love win.
This was a satisfying conclusion to this series. I really enjoyed all the stories in it. The diverse cast of characters was rich and I liked watching them all find their happily ever afters.
October 1, 2018
Whew this was emotional. Trying to keep something together when you don't know if it works or not. It's hard all around and for everyone involved. Sometimes working through things helps and sometimes it don't. Sometimes counseling works. Sometimes it don't. But if you never try....nothing ever worth having isn't worth fighting for. A really good book.
May 14, 2014
3.5 Complicated Stars!
eARC for Honest Review from Riptide Publishing via NetGalley
There is something very precious and real with the Tucker Springs Series. Each book deals with real or very heartfelt situations that tugs at your heart. Like all Tucker Spring novels it can be read as a stand alone.
In this book their situation is very realistic to what most face in their relationships. Of fighting for your relationship work, while questioning if the fight is worth it or not.
Brad and Jeff have been having troubles for awhile but they are determined to make it work but on one of their 'breaks' Jeff sleeps with his ex wife and gets her pregnant causing more stress and a bigger riff in their already very fragile relationship to begin with.
I did like this story but sometimes it was too close to home for me with the reality of their fight. (Minus the part where my partner which would be my husband in this scenario getting his ex pregnant. The part where we have to really fight and work to make our relationship work). Often when this happens it loses some of the essence or magic of a book as I can't escape as much as other reads.
Having said that lots of people will want to read this just for the simple fact realizing that they are not alone and this is a very real scenario that most face daily. For Brad and Jeff they give it their all and find their balance.
The question is ... Is love enough?
I am such a fan of L.A. Witt with all of her writing and she did not disappoint me with this book. She has such a knack at capturing the emotions, angst and love in the MM world.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
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eARC for Honest Review from Riptide Publishing via NetGalley
There is something very precious and real with the Tucker Springs Series. Each book deals with real or very heartfelt situations that tugs at your heart. Like all Tucker Spring novels it can be read as a stand alone.
In this book their situation is very realistic to what most face in their relationships. Of fighting for your relationship work, while questioning if the fight is worth it or not.
Brad and Jeff have been having troubles for awhile but they are determined to make it work but on one of their 'breaks' Jeff sleeps with his ex wife and gets her pregnant causing more stress and a bigger riff in their already very fragile relationship to begin with.
" ... sometimes I can't tell if Jeff and I are getting our shit together or if we just don't have the energy to fight anymore."
I did like this story but sometimes it was too close to home for me with the reality of their fight. (Minus the part where my partner which would be my husband in this scenario getting his ex pregnant. The part where we have to really fight and work to make our relationship work). Often when this happens it loses some of the essence or magic of a book as I can't escape as much as other reads.
Having said that lots of people will want to read this just for the simple fact realizing that they are not alone and this is a very real scenario that most face daily. For Brad and Jeff they give it their all and find their balance.
The question is ... Is love enough?
I am such a fan of L.A. Witt with all of her writing and she did not disappoint me with this book. She has such a knack at capturing the emotions, angst and love in the MM world.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
Like us on Facebook Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Follow along with Twitter Live Read and Breathe Twitter
October 24, 2014
Not quite 3 stars. I received a free copy of this title from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. It's been a long time since I was approved for this title, but I didn't download it before it archived so I am finally getting around to this after purchasing the title for myself on Amazon.
Let me start by saying that if I stopped reading the book partway through, it would have been a 2 or even 1 star read for me because it was just miserable to experience what the MCs were going through. The fighting, the distrust, the worry, the stress....honestly I read books to take me away from the stress of the real world so it's not all that pleasant reading about it. I'm okay with issues that people work through together, but not page after page filled with unhappiness. I mean, the only time they were really in synch was when they were in bed. If I had a friend who was going through this type of relationship, I would tell him or her to cut bait. I get that the point was that the fight is worth it in the end, but there's "trying" to make something work and not knowing when to give up. And I never trust relationships that break up and get back together over and over. Maybe you just like fighting and making up because you think it's more exciting? I'm not sure. I never understood it as I have never felt the urge to get back together with any ex. The things that make you angry aren't going to change. Maybe with a break of many years and a lot of growing up in between, but not in a short time span.
I also didn't care for the other relationships in the story. I've always been good with exes in real life that get along. They are mature adults who realize that they are better as friends than lovers. That's great. That's not what we have in this story. We have a man who went back to his ex and had unprotected sex with her, but he calls her baby and she admits . And Jeff and Brad were really not broken up all that long. In the last book, Brad was still trying to make things work when he was living with Nathan, and then he said that he was going to be moving out of Nathan's flat so that they could try dating again. So where in this quick break does Jeff think that it's not cheating. Sure - TECHNICALLY it's not cheating because you were broken up for one hot minute, but he obviously wasn't too interested in getting you back in that moment if he already had someone else up against a wall. ANYONE would feel insecure about a relationship like that. If my husband was working with his ex, stilled loved her, called her baby.... no, I'm sorry. There's being understanding, and there's setting yourself up for a huge fall. I also didn't get how Brad was just - sure, go ahead, take care of that when Jeff and he both found out about the baby. There should have been a lot more WTF going on in that moment. Yes, he gets his WTFs in later, but still.
There are two things that saved this book for me and I can't say it without spoilers so.... And of course, the ultimate ending worked for me. Definitely not enough to make me want to re-read this book, but just enough for me to feel I didn't waste 4 hours of my life reading it.
I have enjoyed many other of L.A. Witt's titles and will continue to read her stories, but this one was not one of my favorites.
Let me start by saying that if I stopped reading the book partway through, it would have been a 2 or even 1 star read for me because it was just miserable to experience what the MCs were going through. The fighting, the distrust, the worry, the stress....honestly I read books to take me away from the stress of the real world so it's not all that pleasant reading about it. I'm okay with issues that people work through together, but not page after page filled with unhappiness. I mean, the only time they were really in synch was when they were in bed. If I had a friend who was going through this type of relationship, I would tell him or her to cut bait. I get that the point was that the fight is worth it in the end, but there's "trying" to make something work and not knowing when to give up. And I never trust relationships that break up and get back together over and over. Maybe you just like fighting and making up because you think it's more exciting? I'm not sure. I never understood it as I have never felt the urge to get back together with any ex. The things that make you angry aren't going to change. Maybe with a break of many years and a lot of growing up in between, but not in a short time span.
I also didn't care for the other relationships in the story. I've always been good with exes in real life that get along. They are mature adults who realize that they are better as friends than lovers. That's great. That's not what we have in this story. We have a man who went back to his ex and had unprotected sex with her, but he calls her baby and she admits . And Jeff and Brad were really not broken up all that long. In the last book, Brad was still trying to make things work when he was living with Nathan, and then he said that he was going to be moving out of Nathan's flat so that they could try dating again. So where in this quick break does Jeff think that it's not cheating. Sure - TECHNICALLY it's not cheating because you were broken up for one hot minute, but he obviously wasn't too interested in getting you back in that moment if he already had someone else up against a wall. ANYONE would feel insecure about a relationship like that. If my husband was working with his ex, stilled loved her, called her baby.... no, I'm sorry. There's being understanding, and there's setting yourself up for a huge fall. I also didn't get how Brad was just - sure, go ahead, take care of that when Jeff and he both found out about the baby. There should have been a lot more WTF going on in that moment. Yes, he gets his WTFs in later, but still.
There are two things that saved this book for me and I can't say it without spoilers so.... And of course, the ultimate ending worked for me. Definitely not enough to make me want to re-read this book, but just enough for me to feel I didn't waste 4 hours of my life reading it.
I have enjoyed many other of L.A. Witt's titles and will continue to read her stories, but this one was not one of my favorites.
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