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Talbott’s Cove #3
Far Cry
Brooke Markham needs a man. A real good man.
But she's not looking for a keeper. She's too busy kicking ass, running an empire, and caring for her ailing father to spend time with men who want annoying things like relationships and commitment and…conversation.
Brooke knows what she wants and it's not a future with the growly barkeep.
JJ Harniczek needs money. A whole lot of money.
He's determined to launch his distillery, expand his tavern, and put Talbott's Cove on the foodie tourism map. But there's no way he's asking Brooke for a dime. Not before he takes her to bed and definitely not after.
JJ knows where he's headed and the blonde bombshell isn't about to change that.
Not until she changes his entire world.
But she's not looking for a keeper. She's too busy kicking ass, running an empire, and caring for her ailing father to spend time with men who want annoying things like relationships and commitment and…conversation.
Brooke knows what she wants and it's not a future with the growly barkeep.
JJ Harniczek needs money. A whole lot of money.
He's determined to launch his distillery, expand his tavern, and put Talbott's Cove on the foodie tourism map. But there's no way he's asking Brooke for a dime. Not before he takes her to bed and definitely not after.
JJ knows where he's headed and the blonde bombshell isn't about to change that.
Not until she changes his entire world.
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published August 27, 2019
809 people are currently reading
1388 people want to read
About the author
Kate Canterbary
47 books5,554 followersUSA Today Bestseller Kate Canterbary writes smart, steamy contemporary romances loaded with heat, heart, and happy ever afters. Kate lives on the New England coast with her husband and daughter.
To get in touch with Kate, please email kate@katecanterbary.com
To get in touch with Kate, please email kate@katecanterbary.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 350 reviews
November 18, 2024
5 Clam Jamming Stars ⭐️
~This series is freaking standout. Charming, funny, spicy and clever. The best!~
I couldn't shake the sense she'd let me fuck her until she couldn't walk right, but then she'd rip one of my kidneys and keep it as a trophy.
Brooke has moved back to the small town of Talbott’s Cove to look after her ailing father. Leaving the bright lights of NYC, she manages to maintain her lucrative career from the confines of her family home. But small town living isn’t ideal for everybody.
With everyone knowing your business and the slow pace, it doesn’t offer the distraction she needs. In other words, she is going stir crazy. To add to her predicament, she’s hard up and one seriously cranky lady.
Jed has lived in town all his life. He runs the local tavern and is trying to establish his own brewery. Life is busy and he doesn’t need the complications of a woman such as Brooke. Their friendship is tentative at best; but somehow he’s not so keen on her using his bar as her own personal pick up joint. Why not offer his own services?
"Close your mouth, sweetheart, unless that's where you want me putting this."
I glanced up as he joined me on the bed.
"Could you talk less? Your cock looks bigger when you're quiet."
When high maintenance clashes with grumpy lumberjack, there will be fireworks while naked. Brooke is barely coping with her situation while refusing all help. She is shocked to realize that Jed is far more perceptive then ever given credit for, and he’s more then equipped to provide her with an outlet she’s been gagging for.
Seriously, this book was unique, amusing, sexy and wittingly written. With an awesome side cast of friends, the craziness of small town living, and the most gorgeous lumberjack you'll ever encounter, I absolutely loved it. In fact the entire Talbott's Cove series is awesome!
~This series is freaking standout. Charming, funny, spicy and clever. The best!~
I couldn't shake the sense she'd let me fuck her until she couldn't walk right, but then she'd rip one of my kidneys and keep it as a trophy.
Brooke has moved back to the small town of Talbott’s Cove to look after her ailing father. Leaving the bright lights of NYC, she manages to maintain her lucrative career from the confines of her family home. But small town living isn’t ideal for everybody.
With everyone knowing your business and the slow pace, it doesn’t offer the distraction she needs. In other words, she is going stir crazy. To add to her predicament, she’s hard up and one seriously cranky lady.
Jed has lived in town all his life. He runs the local tavern and is trying to establish his own brewery. Life is busy and he doesn’t need the complications of a woman such as Brooke. Their friendship is tentative at best; but somehow he’s not so keen on her using his bar as her own personal pick up joint. Why not offer his own services?
"Close your mouth, sweetheart, unless that's where you want me putting this."
I glanced up as he joined me on the bed.
"Could you talk less? Your cock looks bigger when you're quiet."
When high maintenance clashes with grumpy lumberjack, there will be fireworks while naked. Brooke is barely coping with her situation while refusing all help. She is shocked to realize that Jed is far more perceptive then ever given credit for, and he’s more then equipped to provide her with an outlet she’s been gagging for.
Seriously, this book was unique, amusing, sexy and wittingly written. With an awesome side cast of friends, the craziness of small town living, and the most gorgeous lumberjack you'll ever encounter, I absolutely loved it. In fact the entire Talbott's Cove series is awesome!
August 29, 2019
4.5 STARS
Ummm....Kate Canterbary, where have you been all my life? How is this the first book I've read by you? HOW, I ask you? Because both of my ovaries are currently giving you a standing ovation. Lady boner, party of one? PRESENT! Sweet mother of FIRE this was hot!
Now if you follow my reviews or know me even a little, than you know that enemies to lovers is my jam? And this book CHECKED. EVERY. SINGLE. BOX.
Now I love me a strong heroine, but Brooke was so much more than that. This is a female after my own heart. She's a strong, independent woman that's ridiculously successful. She's beautiful and she owns it. She knows how to get things done in her world and she takes no prisoners while doing it. She's a take-charge sort but what I loved most about her is that she's totally sexually uninhibited. This is a woman that enjoys sex for sex's sake and doesn't make excuses or think less of herself. We need more female characters like this. I'm so over the almost 30 year old virgins that spend their adult lives pining after a man that may be out of reach to them or waiting for the right time. Not Brooke. No, ma'am. This woman is in her mid-thirtys and she's not afraid to live. She also doesn't mince words.
When she finds herself back in the small town she grew up in and couldn't get farther away from, the struggle is real. She's there to take care of her ailing father, but her sex life is now suffering. Because it's tough to pick up a one night stand when you grew up with practically the entire male population of the town.
JJ is the sexy tavern owner and bartender that she has entirely too much history with to even consider. But he's determined to block her game at ever corner, and it doesn't take long before their sexually charged banter soon turns into something neither of them really saw coming.
JJ.
*dreamy sigh*
Has a more perfect male character ever been written? I think NOT. This man was everything. EVERYTHING I tells ya. He dishes as hard as he takes, and let me tell you, friends, Brooke doesn't spare any punches for him. Their chemistry was incendiary. Absolutely incendiary.
The pacing was perfect, though I did feel like the back and forth these two shared was a touch longer than I would have liked. But at the same time, the tension and chemistry was so delicious, that ultimately I just didn't care.
The ending was absolutely perfect and the epilogue even better. I loved this book to pieces and am an instant fan of Kate's. She's going straight to my auto-buy list and I've already went on a one0clicking binge of her entire backlist. If you're looking for a fun and sexy enemies to lovers romance, you need this book in your life.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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I couldn't shake the sense she'd let me fuck her until she couldn't walk right, but then she'd rip one of my kidneys out and keep it as a trophy.
Ummm....Kate Canterbary, where have you been all my life? How is this the first book I've read by you? HOW, I ask you? Because both of my ovaries are currently giving you a standing ovation. Lady boner, party of one? PRESENT! Sweet mother of FIRE this was hot!
Now if you follow my reviews or know me even a little, than you know that enemies to lovers is my jam? And this book CHECKED. EVERY. SINGLE. BOX.
Now I love me a strong heroine, but Brooke was so much more than that. This is a female after my own heart. She's a strong, independent woman that's ridiculously successful. She's beautiful and she owns it. She knows how to get things done in her world and she takes no prisoners while doing it. She's a take-charge sort but what I loved most about her is that she's totally sexually uninhibited. This is a woman that enjoys sex for sex's sake and doesn't make excuses or think less of herself. We need more female characters like this. I'm so over the almost 30 year old virgins that spend their adult lives pining after a man that may be out of reach to them or waiting for the right time. Not Brooke. No, ma'am. This woman is in her mid-thirtys and she's not afraid to live. She also doesn't mince words.
When she finds herself back in the small town she grew up in and couldn't get farther away from, the struggle is real. She's there to take care of her ailing father, but her sex life is now suffering. Because it's tough to pick up a one night stand when you grew up with practically the entire male population of the town.
JJ is the sexy tavern owner and bartender that she has entirely too much history with to even consider. But he's determined to block her game at ever corner, and it doesn't take long before their sexually charged banter soon turns into something neither of them really saw coming.
I couldn't stop staring at his cock. I hadn't looked away since it'd appeared. "Mmhmm?"
"Close your mouth, sweetheart, unless that's where you want me putting this."
I glanced up as he joined me on the bed. "Could you talk less? Your cock looks bigger when you're quiet."
JJ.
*dreamy sigh*
Has a more perfect male character ever been written? I think NOT. This man was everything. EVERYTHING I tells ya. He dishes as hard as he takes, and let me tell you, friends, Brooke doesn't spare any punches for him. Their chemistry was incendiary. Absolutely incendiary.
I glanced down at his jeans. "Take off your pants."
His brows pinched together. "Come again?"
"I'd love to, but I'm going to need you to drop those jeans first." I ducked under his arm and stepped into his home. "I trust you have a condom or two."
The pacing was perfect, though I did feel like the back and forth these two shared was a touch longer than I would have liked. But at the same time, the tension and chemistry was so delicious, that ultimately I just didn't care.
The ending was absolutely perfect and the epilogue even better. I loved this book to pieces and am an instant fan of Kate's. She's going straight to my auto-buy list and I've already went on a one0clicking binge of her entire backlist. If you're looking for a fun and sexy enemies to lovers romance, you need this book in your life.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
September 1, 2019
I don't have much to say about Far Cry, other than that I really was looking forward to read Brooke's story after meeting her in the previous book, "Hard Pressed" (Annette's book) but felt sorely disappointed.
Brooke was such a loveable heroine in the previous book, strong headed, inappropriate, loyal. Feisty isn't strong enough a word to define her.
Unfortunately, as much as I adored Brooke's personality, I couldn't enjoy her story at all. The romance arc was seemingly absent from this book, the hate to love trope a tad too strong to be considered romance at all, for me.
I couldn't care less about hers and JJ situation. Regrettably there was no chemistry there, and no, intense, dirty fucking doesn't equals chemistry. Plus, the way she treated that guy felt wrong and hypocrite. Would the roles were reversed we would skin the man alive. He offcially remained her dick appointment for 75% of the book.
My favorite part of the book remained Annette and Brooke's friendship, which, as great as it was to read their LONG texting convos again, was not the reason I picked this book in the first place. I came for the romance. Too bad there just wasn't any.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
Brooke was such a loveable heroine in the previous book, strong headed, inappropriate, loyal. Feisty isn't strong enough a word to define her.
Unfortunately, as much as I adored Brooke's personality, I couldn't enjoy her story at all. The romance arc was seemingly absent from this book, the hate to love trope a tad too strong to be considered romance at all, for me.
I couldn't care less about hers and JJ situation. Regrettably there was no chemistry there, and no, intense, dirty fucking doesn't equals chemistry. Plus, the way she treated that guy felt wrong and hypocrite. Would the roles were reversed we would skin the man alive. He offcially remained her dick appointment for 75% of the book.
My favorite part of the book remained Annette and Brooke's friendship, which, as great as it was to read their LONG texting convos again, was not the reason I picked this book in the first place. I came for the romance. Too bad there just wasn't any.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
November 16, 2021
4.5 "It's a thin line between love and hate" STARS
The main characters here are Brooke and JJ. Both are in their middle thirties, but know each other since childhood. They shared a kiss after graduation party but thanks to a misunderstanding they felt wounded afterwards. They left to go in to the big world and now are back in their home town. Brooke is in a serious, heavy place in her life and it sounds to her like a good idea to find someone light and casual to balance it out, or as she called it to "ride out a phase". JJ is working on expanding his business and he's got too much going on for a serious relationship. There is something about hate to love trope in other reviews, but in my opinion they never truly hated each other. I'd say it is more a love-hate relationship they have going on and they enjoy pulling each other pigtails... which was truly amazing to follow. It was witty and steamy but also heart-wrenching sometimes to see their relationship change and develop.
I would also like to point out the strong friendship between Annette and Brooke. It was amazing to see how they truly cared about each other, and it was hilarious to read their long texting convos... I almost felt like I was in a "Gilmore Girls" episode.
The main characters here are Brooke and JJ. Both are in their middle thirties, but know each other since childhood. They shared a kiss after graduation party but thanks to a misunderstanding they felt wounded afterwards. They left to go in to the big world and now are back in their home town. Brooke is in a serious, heavy place in her life and it sounds to her like a good idea to find someone light and casual to balance it out, or as she called it to "ride out a phase". JJ is working on expanding his business and he's got too much going on for a serious relationship. There is something about hate to love trope in other reviews, but in my opinion they never truly hated each other. I'd say it is more a love-hate relationship they have going on and they enjoy pulling each other pigtails... which was truly amazing to follow. It was witty and steamy but also heart-wrenching sometimes to see their relationship change and develop.
"You're allowed to hate me just as much as I'm allowed to want you. It's always been that way."
I would also like to point out the strong friendship between Annette and Brooke. It was amazing to see how they truly cared about each other, and it was hilarious to read their long texting convos... I almost felt like I was in a "Gilmore Girls" episode.
November 12, 2019
This is my second book in this series and i am loving it. This book especially thanks to the briliant characters. Jj and Brooke are perfect for each other. They push and pull together and excell together.
The author is briliant bringing up their banter to sexual tension/ foreplay. And the text messages between Annette and Brooke are hilarious. A true girlfriend style. It makes me crack some laugh listening to the audio book.
I wish the ending of this book can be executed with more fiesty conclusion. I feel the ending is bit rushed.
Overall i do enjoy this book very much.
4 stars
The author is briliant bringing up their banter to sexual tension/ foreplay. And the text messages between Annette and Brooke are hilarious. A true girlfriend style. It makes me crack some laugh listening to the audio book.
I wish the ending of this book can be executed with more fiesty conclusion. I feel the ending is bit rushed.
Overall i do enjoy this book very much.
4 stars
August 28, 2019
I get what the author wanted to show, a tough heroine with a soft interior but honestly she has done that before in her previous books. I did not like the way the heroine treated the hero or find any semblance of love/ romance in their interactions. They basically have some cold sex I felt. I get the heroine had a lot on her plate, taking care of a really sick parent (something I personally know), but her and the way she behaved with the hero, like he was a piece of meat to get her off just icked me.
December 4, 2020
3.5 ish
I listened to the audiobook of this one and the long, long texting conversations drove me a bit mad if I’m honest; they were witty and original but god they dragged on for ages.
This author creates amazing characters, I feel like I’ve spent hours getting to know these people. I loved how surly and hard to please JJ is. Brooke I found a bit harder to get used to, a little highly strung perhaps.
Complete story but part of a series. Available on ku.
I listened to the audiobook of this one and the long, long texting conversations drove me a bit mad if I’m honest; they were witty and original but god they dragged on for ages.
This author creates amazing characters, I feel like I’ve spent hours getting to know these people. I loved how surly and hard to please JJ is. Brooke I found a bit harder to get used to, a little highly strung perhaps.
Complete story but part of a series. Available on ku.
June 28, 2023
I love that the hero falls first and he fights to have her open up... and he makes a safe place for her to cry and be supported. This is kinda second chance. They kissed in high school and both hoped for more, but then went on to have lives separate from each other after they had a missed encounter. This has lots of angry sex and yelling and some emotional pull.
Second time around, I still enjoyed this story, but saw some issues that made me decide to bring this down a star.
1. The awkward texts. This book has these ridiculously long convos over texting. There is no way a real person would text like these characters do. There’s some exposition in the texts but not enough to warrant this level of detailed back and forth.
2. His dismissal of her willingness to invest. He’s working with an investor to build a distillery. But the investor is a flake. He knows the heroine has enough money but he’s not willing to tell her anything about the opportunity because he doesn’t want to take advantage of her. When the heroine finds out about the distillery, she offers to invest and he refuses to “protect her”. When the investor flakes out, the hero doesn’t tell the heroine and she’s really hurt when she finds out. Once again, the hero refuses to let her invest. Instead, there’s this scene near the end where another character decides to invest. Until this happens, I still didn’t remember how everything went down the first time I read this book and I was hoping the hero would realize that he isn’t trusting the heroine by not listening to her.
There’s even a quote from the other character who is talking about getting into a fight with his husband. “I know he’s doing it because he trusts me with his stress and anxiety”… and this is the part where I’m thinking “Oh, great! Maybe the hero will learn to trust the heroine with his stress and anxiety." Instead, there’s some toxic masculinity bullshit where he’s going to be there for her but get a different investor cause he’s “always going to protect [her]”. Sigh.
3. Some people would probably be thrown off by how much they yell at each other. There’s something to the way this author writes this that makes me love their interactions, even when they kinda go a little dubious on the consent.
4. The heroine has the growth arc. She has trust issues and needs to address that… and she slowly opens up and starts to address those issues. But, guess what! The hero actually needs to have a growth arc… and he doesn’t change much. And the author seems to validate his behavior as good… and I don’t agree (especially re: #2, above).
Safety deets
- No OW. We don’t hear anything about his past relationships. He’s not a virgin nor a manwhore.
- No OM… however, the heroine is trying to pick up a stranger for a one night stand and the hero blocks it and she ends up demanding that he take the stranger’s place.
- BC used… mostly. Except that one time (and you can guess what happens because of that one slip).
- Short separation near the end where she’s thinking things out, but there’s no formal breakup.
- There is an epilogue that shows them happy, married, with a baby.
First read. 5 stars.
I love this so much. Enemies with benefits. The guy is so loving and healthy. It makes me so happy when one member of the couple doesn’t freak out when the other one does. Helps my fragile heart to read these books.
Such a good book.
Second time around, I still enjoyed this story, but saw some issues that made me decide to bring this down a star.
1. The awkward texts. This book has these ridiculously long convos over texting. There is no way a real person would text like these characters do. There’s some exposition in the texts but not enough to warrant this level of detailed back and forth.
2. His dismissal of her willingness to invest. He’s working with an investor to build a distillery. But the investor is a flake. He knows the heroine has enough money but he’s not willing to tell her anything about the opportunity because he doesn’t want to take advantage of her. When the heroine finds out about the distillery, she offers to invest and he refuses to “protect her”. When the investor flakes out, the hero doesn’t tell the heroine and she’s really hurt when she finds out. Once again, the hero refuses to let her invest. Instead, there’s this scene near the end where another character decides to invest. Until this happens, I still didn’t remember how everything went down the first time I read this book and I was hoping the hero would realize that he isn’t trusting the heroine by not listening to her.
There’s even a quote from the other character who is talking about getting into a fight with his husband. “I know he’s doing it because he trusts me with his stress and anxiety”… and this is the part where I’m thinking “Oh, great! Maybe the hero will learn to trust the heroine with his stress and anxiety." Instead, there’s some toxic masculinity bullshit where he’s going to be there for her but get a different investor cause he’s “always going to protect [her]”. Sigh.
3. Some people would probably be thrown off by how much they yell at each other. There’s something to the way this author writes this that makes me love their interactions, even when they kinda go a little dubious on the consent.
4. The heroine has the growth arc. She has trust issues and needs to address that… and she slowly opens up and starts to address those issues. But, guess what! The hero actually needs to have a growth arc… and he doesn’t change much. And the author seems to validate his behavior as good… and I don’t agree (especially re: #2, above).
Safety deets
- No OW. We don’t hear anything about his past relationships. He’s not a virgin nor a manwhore.
- No OM… however, the heroine is trying to pick up a stranger for a one night stand and the hero blocks it and she ends up demanding that he take the stranger’s place.
- BC used… mostly. Except that one time (and you can guess what happens because of that one slip).
- Short separation near the end where she’s thinking things out, but there’s no formal breakup.
- There is an epilogue that shows them happy, married, with a baby.
First read. 5 stars.
I love this so much. Enemies with benefits. The guy is so loving and healthy. It makes me so happy when one member of the couple doesn’t freak out when the other one does. Helps my fragile heart to read these books.
Such a good book.
December 27, 2022
reread in 2022 and it just hits me in the feels again and again and i love JJ and Brooke so much.
My favorite Talbott's Cove story
By far my favorite in the Talbotts Cove series, I've been eagerly awaiting Brooke's HEA. Brooke is prickly, stubborn, verbal about what she wants and doesn't want, and takes no prisoners. She's a billionaire and she's not here for anyone's guff but is stuck back at home in a place she thought she left behind, with a father who doesn't know her anymore, and no plans for the future. I adored watching her bang against grumpy JJ, both verbally and phsyically, and ate up every quipy line from their arguments.
I also loved how JJ pushed Brooke, but not too much, and never expected her to change. He met her where she was at and slowly won her trust and her heart. This story takes place over very long stretch of time, which I appreciate, but is definitely not a slow-burn.
CW for dementia, parental death, discussion of a secondary character's addiction, and alcohol.
Loved it.
The audiobook for Far Cry is absolutely delicious, I really liked both the narrators. The way JJ said BAM and Brooke said Jed gave me all the oomf feels I was hoping for. I'd also like to try some of JJ's gin right now please, and basically just let me live there right now.
My favorite Talbott's Cove story
By far my favorite in the Talbotts Cove series, I've been eagerly awaiting Brooke's HEA. Brooke is prickly, stubborn, verbal about what she wants and doesn't want, and takes no prisoners. She's a billionaire and she's not here for anyone's guff but is stuck back at home in a place she thought she left behind, with a father who doesn't know her anymore, and no plans for the future. I adored watching her bang against grumpy JJ, both verbally and phsyically, and ate up every quipy line from their arguments.
I also loved how JJ pushed Brooke, but not too much, and never expected her to change. He met her where she was at and slowly won her trust and her heart. This story takes place over very long stretch of time, which I appreciate, but is definitely not a slow-burn.
CW for dementia, parental death, discussion of a secondary character's addiction, and alcohol.
Loved it.
The audiobook for Far Cry is absolutely delicious, I really liked both the narrators. The way JJ said BAM and Brooke said Jed gave me all the oomf feels I was hoping for. I'd also like to try some of JJ's gin right now please, and basically just let me live there right now.
September 10, 2019
It was my first book from this author... There are so many different reviews about it...
If you like hate to love stories, it's your book. Heroine was just angry with the world, and I think sex was her way to cope with it. She was pretty strong and tough nut but she and hero didn't work for me. Too much sex it's not enough to have to much chemistry.
Although it was hate from both sides, later it developed to a beautiful love story.
I didn't like that I didn't get the reason why they had a problem before, when they both were young adults... It was vague ..
Although at final there was unplanned pregnancy, it felt like author didn't know how to end the story and how to put some angst and twists...
Sometimes I skipped a lot...
If you like hate to love stories, it's your book. Heroine was just angry with the world, and I think sex was her way to cope with it. She was pretty strong and tough nut but she and hero didn't work for me. Too much sex it's not enough to have to much chemistry.
Although it was hate from both sides, later it developed to a beautiful love story.
I didn't like that I didn't get the reason why they had a problem before, when they both were young adults... It was vague ..
Although at final there was unplanned pregnancy, it felt like author didn't know how to end the story and how to put some angst and twists...
Sometimes I skipped a lot...
September 11, 2019
I love Kate's Talbott's Cove novels and was so excited when I saw she'd written a book about Brooke Markham. This book, you guys. I freaking LOVED it. The characters were so compelling, I was sucked in from page one. It's one of those books that makes me want to go to bed with a bottle of wine and never write again because damn.
August 30, 2019
I had difficult time settling into this one -- even considered it a DNF once or twice. But I'm no quitter so I pushed it aside for a day and picked up again yesterday to forge onward. For over half the book, I felt nothing really -- didn't like either the long-haired bearded JJ or the uppity self-absorbed Brooke. If I had to pick a favorite, it definitely would be JJ -- because Brooke uses men and tosses them aside and not to kindly either, but I didn't extend much slack to JJ because he let her do it.
About the one-third mark, things took a drastic turn for the better. There were some really timely, witty and very funny lines exchanged between characters. I found myself laughing more than not. It took a little bit of magic to make it all come together and I give Canterbary credit for turning it around, but not soon enough to overpower the weak and agonizing beginning. Thus, an okay read -- just not the powerhouse it had the potential for being.
About the one-third mark, things took a drastic turn for the better. There were some really timely, witty and very funny lines exchanged between characters. I found myself laughing more than not. It took a little bit of magic to make it all come together and I give Canterbary credit for turning it around, but not soon enough to overpower the weak and agonizing beginning. Thus, an okay read -- just not the powerhouse it had the potential for being.
September 2, 2019
Tropes: second chance, enemies-to-lovers, ONS turns more
Brooke & JJ grew up in Talbott’s Cove. There’s history here. But the sparks that fly whenever they’re in the same room together? Ooh angry, deeply sexually frustrated sparks. They love to bicker, to banter, to growl at each other, and eventually, well, you can imagine where all that pent up energy goes. But when feelings get involved, and things go beyond sexual and deeply emotional, that’s when the romance happens.
I really enjoyed Brooke & JJ’s romance alot. I’ve had a crush on Brooke since Hard Pressed, and I wanted so much to see her get a HEA. JJ is the grumpy hero that can go toe to toe with her and make it work, and I loved them together. There’s alot of hate f*cking (I mean, they were HOT) and alot of banter, alot of suppressed feelings. So, I was very happy on that front.
I always appreciate how Ms. Canterbary integrates their professional lives into the romance, and I think that she really fleshed out what goes into running JJ’s business beautifully. Seeing the day-to-day lives of the inhabitants of Talbott’s Cove, I actually loved how she allowed the characters to examine how insulated and homogeneous the town is, but they’re trying to join the 21st century. I can say, when I’m in that New England frame of mind, few authors can bring it alive in text the way Ms. Canterbary does.
If there was one thing that I was missing was more internal musings from Brooke. I understand that her situation with her father was sad and serious, but I wanted more from her personal perspective. So much of her chapters were focused on her text conversations with her best friend Annette. Now mind you, I love Brooke and Annette’s friendship. It’s a solidly built relationship that enriches this story and is something that I adore seeing in romances - #bloodlesssisters4life. So, while I enjoyed it, I wanted more of Brooke on her own. Having said that, her personality certainly shines through, and it's gale-force in nature, something that both JJ and I appreciated very much. The inevitable dark moment wasn’t drawn out, and the resolution to it all was quick, but still satisfying. All in all, I’d recommend it for those looking for a prickly, strong heroine (my favorite kind) and the grumpy heroes who love and support them, just as they are. Oh, plus hate f*cking. Lots and lots o’ hate f*cking. If that’s your jam, you may enjoy this.
**Borrowed through Kindle Unlimited**
For more reviews, visit
Brooke & JJ grew up in Talbott’s Cove. There’s history here. But the sparks that fly whenever they’re in the same room together? Ooh angry, deeply sexually frustrated sparks. They love to bicker, to banter, to growl at each other, and eventually, well, you can imagine where all that pent up energy goes. But when feelings get involved, and things go beyond sexual and deeply emotional, that’s when the romance happens.
I really enjoyed Brooke & JJ’s romance alot. I’ve had a crush on Brooke since Hard Pressed, and I wanted so much to see her get a HEA. JJ is the grumpy hero that can go toe to toe with her and make it work, and I loved them together. There’s alot of hate f*cking (I mean, they were HOT) and alot of banter, alot of suppressed feelings. So, I was very happy on that front.
I always appreciate how Ms. Canterbary integrates their professional lives into the romance, and I think that she really fleshed out what goes into running JJ’s business beautifully. Seeing the day-to-day lives of the inhabitants of Talbott’s Cove, I actually loved how she allowed the characters to examine how insulated and homogeneous the town is, but they’re trying to join the 21st century. I can say, when I’m in that New England frame of mind, few authors can bring it alive in text the way Ms. Canterbary does.
If there was one thing that I was missing was more internal musings from Brooke. I understand that her situation with her father was sad and serious, but I wanted more from her personal perspective. So much of her chapters were focused on her text conversations with her best friend Annette. Now mind you, I love Brooke and Annette’s friendship. It’s a solidly built relationship that enriches this story and is something that I adore seeing in romances - #bloodlesssisters4life. So, while I enjoyed it, I wanted more of Brooke on her own. Having said that, her personality certainly shines through, and it's gale-force in nature, something that both JJ and I appreciated very much. The inevitable dark moment wasn’t drawn out, and the resolution to it all was quick, but still satisfying. All in all, I’d recommend it for those looking for a prickly, strong heroine (my favorite kind) and the grumpy heroes who love and support them, just as they are. Oh, plus hate f*cking. Lots and lots o’ hate f*cking. If that’s your jam, you may enjoy this.
**Borrowed through Kindle Unlimited**
For more reviews, visit
August 26, 2019
‘For angry women’, reads the dedication in Kate Canterbary’s newest book, FAR CRY. I was already anticipating this book but this dedication built my interest level significantly.
I was not disappointed. Brooke-Ashley Markham is one of the angriest characters I have read in a long time. Please, don’t misunderstand. Brooke is strong, confident and assertive; she is not a ‘mean girl’ out to consciously hurt people. What she also is, is a product of a life where the expectations of others, plus the responsibilities and promises to others have put her in a position of vulnerability. And she is livid.
I loved Brooke. She is clever, snarky, funny, and entertaining. She is direct, confrontational, and goes after what she wants: ‘I’d like to make a reservation with your dick ... later this evening, a seating for one.’
Brooke is also one of the best friends you could have. The scenes between her and Annette (the heroine in HARD PRESSED, Talbott’s Cove book 2), are fantastic. The love, support, openness, fun and banter between them really is the type of friendship women should aspire to. I am officially jealous of fictional characters.
Then there’s JJ Harniczek; a bar owner who keeps himself to himself. Like Brooke, he grew up in Talbott’s Cove. Unlike Brooke, he has made Talbott’s Cove his home. He’s the quiet achiever and I am going to label him the ‘stealth hero’. JJ may be quieter than Brooke but he gives back as good as he gets. On the surface, his and Brooke’s relationship may seem hostile but it doesn’t take long to realise the attraction between JJ and Brooke is fiery hot. He somehow effortlessly manages to get under Brooke’s skin, and their words, their actions, and the physicality of their relationship had me and my reading device steaming.
This is the kind of romance book I always want to read. Give me relatable, interesting characters. Give me wonderful friendships. Give me a steamy romance. Make me want to live in this fictional world. FAR CRY by Kate Canterbary. I cannot recommend it enough.
I was not disappointed. Brooke-Ashley Markham is one of the angriest characters I have read in a long time. Please, don’t misunderstand. Brooke is strong, confident and assertive; she is not a ‘mean girl’ out to consciously hurt people. What she also is, is a product of a life where the expectations of others, plus the responsibilities and promises to others have put her in a position of vulnerability. And she is livid.
I loved Brooke. She is clever, snarky, funny, and entertaining. She is direct, confrontational, and goes after what she wants: ‘I’d like to make a reservation with your dick ... later this evening, a seating for one.’
Brooke is also one of the best friends you could have. The scenes between her and Annette (the heroine in HARD PRESSED, Talbott’s Cove book 2), are fantastic. The love, support, openness, fun and banter between them really is the type of friendship women should aspire to. I am officially jealous of fictional characters.
Then there’s JJ Harniczek; a bar owner who keeps himself to himself. Like Brooke, he grew up in Talbott’s Cove. Unlike Brooke, he has made Talbott’s Cove his home. He’s the quiet achiever and I am going to label him the ‘stealth hero’. JJ may be quieter than Brooke but he gives back as good as he gets. On the surface, his and Brooke’s relationship may seem hostile but it doesn’t take long to realise the attraction between JJ and Brooke is fiery hot. He somehow effortlessly manages to get under Brooke’s skin, and their words, their actions, and the physicality of their relationship had me and my reading device steaming.
This is the kind of romance book I always want to read. Give me relatable, interesting characters. Give me wonderful friendships. Give me a steamy romance. Make me want to live in this fictional world. FAR CRY by Kate Canterbary. I cannot recommend it enough.
November 30, 2022
Unfortunately, my luck didn't change and after feeling disappointed in Book 2, I didn't like Book 3, either.
*********************************************
Once again, I didn't like the characters much and therefore, I was never connected to either of them. There was no real conversation between them for a long while. Their bickering wasn’t cute and I didn’t understand the reason of their hostility until it was revealed towards the end of the book.
Their relationship starts as sex appointments and I didn’t like it a bit. I read books where the relationship starts as sex appointments only and just the passion and the chemistry between the characters can still make it awesome (e.g. Second Best by Noelle Adams); but here I never felt the chemistry or the passion between them. Just too people having ordinary sex.
*********************************************
As in Book 2, the story fillers (Brooke’s father and Nate) were again too boring. I definitely skimmed and scanned the business talk and most other filler stories.
*********************************************
Also, one more point: Brooke often asks her best friend Annette (Book 2’s heroine) if they can share her fiancé because he is good and she can’t find a guy as good. Well, once, it may be taken as a joke, twice, it may still sound like a joke but I wouldn’t take it as a joke after a certain point so I didn’t like her attitude about it.
*********************************************
Safety
Brooke and JJ grew up in the same town and they knew each other. After the graduation party in High School, they made out but it never went further. We learn the reason why it didn’t go further and why both of them still resent each other towards the end of the book and it was too silly.
Regarding safety, this means that there were many other people in their lives in all those years.
Also, before JJ and Brooke start having sex, Brooke was planning her one night-stand in JJ's bar. After she leaves the bar, JJ goes and takes the paper on which she has written her phone number from the guy's hand and doesn’t let it happen. Then comes her frustration about it and this is how their relationship based on sex begins. For a long while, Brooke calls it a "dick appointment" (too cringy for me). And it takes a long long time until it becomes a real relationship other than only sex sessions.
*********************************************
Writing
I normally like Kate Canterbary's writing because she has a unique and talented way of telling a story but here, sadly, I didn't feel like that. All in all, this series is a disappointment for me.
*********************************************
Once again, I didn't like the characters much and therefore, I was never connected to either of them. There was no real conversation between them for a long while. Their bickering wasn’t cute and I didn’t understand the reason of their hostility until it was revealed towards the end of the book.
Their relationship starts as sex appointments and I didn’t like it a bit. I read books where the relationship starts as sex appointments only and just the passion and the chemistry between the characters can still make it awesome (e.g. Second Best by Noelle Adams); but here I never felt the chemistry or the passion between them. Just too people having ordinary sex.
*********************************************
As in Book 2, the story fillers (Brooke’s father and Nate) were again too boring. I definitely skimmed and scanned the business talk and most other filler stories.
*********************************************
Also, one more point: Brooke often asks her best friend Annette (Book 2’s heroine) if they can share her fiancé because he is good and she can’t find a guy as good. Well, once, it may be taken as a joke, twice, it may still sound like a joke but I wouldn’t take it as a joke after a certain point so I didn’t like her attitude about it.
*********************************************
Safety
Brooke and JJ grew up in the same town and they knew each other. After the graduation party in High School, they made out but it never went further. We learn the reason why it didn’t go further and why both of them still resent each other towards the end of the book and it was too silly.
Regarding safety, this means that there were many other people in their lives in all those years.
Also, before JJ and Brooke start having sex, Brooke was planning her one night-stand in JJ's bar. After she leaves the bar, JJ goes and takes the paper on which she has written her phone number from the guy's hand and doesn’t let it happen. Then comes her frustration about it and this is how their relationship based on sex begins. For a long while, Brooke calls it a "dick appointment" (too cringy for me). And it takes a long long time until it becomes a real relationship other than only sex sessions.
*********************************************
Writing
I normally like Kate Canterbary's writing because she has a unique and talented way of telling a story but here, sadly, I didn't feel like that. All in all, this series is a disappointment for me.
April 10, 2020
Really like this one. For me the first one was the best this was the second best. I enjoyed this series a lot. I love fisherman towns. I live in one.
August 19, 2020
I'm liking this series small coastal town. The characters are different for sure. I'll be honest, Brooke while I was very intrgued by the snippets of her in the previous book I didn't know what to expect. She seemed different than the previous. Her walls are up so high and it wasn't easy to get in there and get what makes her tick. She's also unapologetic about her crassness and being forward it's also refreshing. She's a bit of a control freak in sone ways but she knows what she wants. Exceot ahe won't express that. With all the animosity between her and JJ I wasn't sure they could get past that. Sure they have hot physical chemistry but other than that I'm not sure. JJ as ornery and grumpy as he is, seems solid and a good guy. He has his blunt and rude moments but I think it's a matter of why. It's a strong hate to love story I felt at times but then some cracks in the walls made it easier.
I have to say honestly prefer him as JJ. I like his creative business side too. Since Talbott's Cove is small JJ and Brooke know each other but Brooke went away and she seems to have a hard time fitting in this small town life. She's outgoing but she has her vulnerabilities and things she hides beneath her tough exterior. I like her friendship with Annette that made all the other uphill parts work. Annette calls it like it is even if she's her best friend. JJ and Brooke started with physical but something is just a draw that makes it significant. Seeing Brooke open up slowly with all JJ's nudging was pretty touching to see.
The beauty of their shared history is getting it in the open. Kate Canterbary made that transition from hate to love, physical to more so well. Brooke and JJ they creep up in you and I liked that a lot. Sometimes that scenario isn't as strong but here Brooke and JJ were fleshed out I appreciated that because this trope can be hard. JJ is quite smart actually and his worldviews are broad and relevant. I liked that. Brooke needed someone to trust and help her, it was difficult for her to ask but it's a learning curve.
JJ and Jackson weren't buddies but they found a common ground with their loves being bff that was neat. We get to see more of Annette and Jackson here. Now all the hoopla of wedding planning, house building and all that stuff. Yey for Goldens, love that name Butterscotch. Nate was an interesting character and JJ was an excellent help to his confidence and believed in second chances. The humor was laced in this so it's not all the bickering and interruptions. This one was pretty well rounded and that's a good thing. Very signature style of the author set in this small town. I look forward to the next installment sounds interesting.
I have to say honestly prefer him as JJ. I like his creative business side too. Since Talbott's Cove is small JJ and Brooke know each other but Brooke went away and she seems to have a hard time fitting in this small town life. She's outgoing but she has her vulnerabilities and things she hides beneath her tough exterior. I like her friendship with Annette that made all the other uphill parts work. Annette calls it like it is even if she's her best friend. JJ and Brooke started with physical but something is just a draw that makes it significant. Seeing Brooke open up slowly with all JJ's nudging was pretty touching to see.
The beauty of their shared history is getting it in the open. Kate Canterbary made that transition from hate to love, physical to more so well. Brooke and JJ they creep up in you and I liked that a lot. Sometimes that scenario isn't as strong but here Brooke and JJ were fleshed out I appreciated that because this trope can be hard. JJ is quite smart actually and his worldviews are broad and relevant. I liked that. Brooke needed someone to trust and help her, it was difficult for her to ask but it's a learning curve.
JJ and Jackson weren't buddies but they found a common ground with their loves being bff that was neat. We get to see more of Annette and Jackson here. Now all the hoopla of wedding planning, house building and all that stuff. Yey for Goldens, love that name Butterscotch. Nate was an interesting character and JJ was an excellent help to his confidence and believed in second chances. The humor was laced in this so it's not all the bickering and interruptions. This one was pretty well rounded and that's a good thing. Very signature style of the author set in this small town. I look forward to the next installment sounds interesting.
September 30, 2019
I'm so obsessed with the Talbott’s Cove series, and I've been waiting for Brooke's story ever since we first met her in Hard Pressed. Brooke is independent, successful, hard-working, but her upbringing has made her scared of forming any emotional connections with people, never showing her true self and always putting a wall between herself and the world. Because life has taught Brooke that her true self is never enough, and those she loves always end up leaving her. Enter JJ Harniczek, childhood friend and growly barkeep. A one-night-stand turns into two, two turn into three, and before they know it, they are more than just friends with benefits. But Brooke's walls are high and thick, and JJ must be willing to knock every last one of them if he wants to keep the woman he loves. Great chemistry, great banter, great writing—I loved this book so much!
September 1, 2019
I’m sorry to say this is my least favorite book by this author. I did not like the heroine, Brooke, and almost didn’t finish the book on several occasions. I felt the hero, JJ, deserved better than how she treated him. There wasn’t any real romance in this story. Just a lot of her barking orders and bickering. She had so much to be thankful for but was too self absorbed to think of anyone else and be grateful for all the good in her life.
I like heroines that I can admire. I don’t mind that she went through struggles but taking care of a sick dad isn’t one of them. People do that everyday. Rise above it and give more than you receive. That’s someone I would like. I thought she was miserable. I did really like JJ though! He was a trouper putting up with her games.
I like heroines that I can admire. I don’t mind that she went through struggles but taking care of a sick dad isn’t one of them. People do that everyday. Rise above it and give more than you receive. That’s someone I would like. I thought she was miserable. I did really like JJ though! He was a trouper putting up with her games.
November 18, 2019
3 but more like 2.5 stars
This had one of the most infuriating heroines I’ve EVER read. She had so much potential to be a bad ass and she fell flat at every turn. Her character dragged the story down and the hero (who was amazing) picked up as much dead weight as he could.
Overall a cute safe rom com but I stopped and started reading this a dozen time because I could only handle the heroine in small doses.
This had one of the most infuriating heroines I’ve EVER read. She had so much potential to be a bad ass and she fell flat at every turn. Her character dragged the story down and the hero (who was amazing) picked up as much dead weight as he could.
Overall a cute safe rom com but I stopped and started reading this a dozen time because I could only handle the heroine in small doses.
July 18, 2023
3.5 - 4 stars
My emotions were a bit all over the place with this one. Some moments were hilarious and had me laughing so hard, and other times, my heart felt very heavy as Brooke struggled to keep her promise to her father. I liked JJ and Brooke, but the enemies portion lasted a bit too long and I didn't fully understand why they were so angry and mean to each other. I know that a lot of it was foreplay, but I would have liked if we got to the lovers portion faster (instead of the repeated hate sex). I wish the progression of Brooke and JJ's relationship wouldn't have dragged out for so many months, but I understand that neither of them was ready yet. I was rooting for these two to figure things outs though and for Brooke to finally be honest with herself about what she wanted and felt. I appreciated that the third act drama wasn't drawn out and that Brooke gave some good grovel. The found family was probably my favorite part of the novel and I loved the hodge podge group (including Scotchie!). I'm definitely interested in reading Annette and Jackson's story now too (since I read this series out of order).
Note: As much as I appreciated the comic relief from the texts with Annette, they did break up the flow of the story for me and I imagine all of those text exchanges would be difficult to listen to on audio. I'm glad I read this via ebook.
CW: death of parent, grief, parent with dementia (mentions of memory lapses and accidents and challenges associated with care), opioid abuse (secondary character, past)
*Read via Kindle Unlimited*
My emotions were a bit all over the place with this one. Some moments were hilarious and had me laughing so hard, and other times, my heart felt very heavy as Brooke struggled to keep her promise to her father. I liked JJ and Brooke, but the enemies portion lasted a bit too long and I didn't fully understand why they were so angry and mean to each other. I know that a lot of it was foreplay, but I would have liked if we got to the lovers portion faster (instead of the repeated hate sex). I wish the progression of Brooke and JJ's relationship wouldn't have dragged out for so many months, but I understand that neither of them was ready yet. I was rooting for these two to figure things outs though and for Brooke to finally be honest with herself about what she wanted and felt. I appreciated that the third act drama wasn't drawn out and that Brooke gave some good grovel. The found family was probably my favorite part of the novel and I loved the hodge podge group (including Scotchie!). I'm definitely interested in reading Annette and Jackson's story now too (since I read this series out of order).
Note: As much as I appreciated the comic relief from the texts with Annette, they did break up the flow of the story for me and I imagine all of those text exchanges would be difficult to listen to on audio. I'm glad I read this via ebook.
CW: death of parent, grief, parent with dementia (mentions of memory lapses and accidents and challenges associated with care), opioid abuse (secondary character, past)
*Read via Kindle Unlimited*
August 29, 2019
“That woman is a motherfucking force to be reckoned with and I love her.”
4 stars!
The third book in the Talbott’s Cove series, this is a hot and feisty enemies-to-lovers romance that is full of snark and banter. It’s a fun read with wonderfully strong characters, and I loved it.
Firstly, yes, you can read this as a standalone, but there is a lot of character crossover, and because they are awesome books, I definitely recommend reading the first two books in the series first – at least Hard Pressed, because Brooke is the best friend of Annette (Hard Pressed heroine), and there is a whole lot of interaction happening there.
Brooke Markham left Talbott’s Cove after high school graduation and never looked back. She became a hugely successful businesswoman, earning a fortune in the finance field, and life was golden, until her father became ill and she returned to her home town to care for him. After spending her whole life trying to live up to her family’s expectations, her childhood home is the last place she wants to be and the only good thing about coming home is spending so much time with her best friend, Annette. And seeing a certain bartender again.
JJ Harniczek was at high school with Brooke, though she was the popular princess and he was the loner poet. They shared one kiss which meant a lot to both of them, but then went their separate ways. JJ travelled the world only to discover that his heart truly lay at home, so he came back and took over running his family’s bar, and is working on opening his own distillery.
When Brooke comes down to JJ’s bar to find a man to take out her sexual frustrations on, JJ gets in her way and the two of them end up sharing a snark-filled bitchfest which ends up with them in bed where things get even more feisty.
Brooke is full of snark and she’s not afraid to let her bitch flag fly, but JJ knows just how to handle her. And he gets plenty of opportunity to as their ‘one night only’ becomes more than just one night.
It’s a weird dynamic, and I honestly couldn’t always make sense of what was going on between them, but it works for them and it’s so freaking entertaining!
Even from the beginning, there’s clearly a lot going on under the surface, but as time goes on, things begin to shift, and I loved watching their emotions start to show.
Brooke has a lot to deal with personally, and she unexpectedly finds comfort and acceptance with JJ, which rocks her world a little bit. And with her best friend, Annette, by her side and offering sage advice (OMG, those conversations were GOLD!), things start to change for her, and I thought her journey was really beautifully written.
Quick shout out to JJ, because OMG, the man is amazing. Not only is he smart, witty and sexy as all hell, but he’s also got to be one of the most patient men ever! He puts up with a lot from Brooke, but he gives back just as good as he gets, and he certainly doesn’t come off as the beta in the relationship. He is strong, stubborn and caring, and he’s exactly what she needs, and I loved watching them fight for their happy ending.
Jackson and Annette feature heavily, and I loved catching up with them. Of course, Brooke and Annette are a riot together, but the guys also cracked me up as they awkwardly found their way forward. There’s a brief glimpse of Owen and Cole from Book #1, which I loved, and there’s a hint at more books to come and I am really excited for the possibilities there.
I really enjoyed this book. Another very strongly character-driven story from Kate Canterbary that is fun, feisty, sexy, romantic and emotional with some surprises along the way. It’s a great read.
A solid 4 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars!
The third book in the Talbott’s Cove series, this is a hot and feisty enemies-to-lovers romance that is full of snark and banter. It’s a fun read with wonderfully strong characters, and I loved it.
Firstly, yes, you can read this as a standalone, but there is a lot of character crossover, and because they are awesome books, I definitely recommend reading the first two books in the series first – at least Hard Pressed, because Brooke is the best friend of Annette (Hard Pressed heroine), and there is a whole lot of interaction happening there.
Brooke Markham left Talbott’s Cove after high school graduation and never looked back. She became a hugely successful businesswoman, earning a fortune in the finance field, and life was golden, until her father became ill and she returned to her home town to care for him. After spending her whole life trying to live up to her family’s expectations, her childhood home is the last place she wants to be and the only good thing about coming home is spending so much time with her best friend, Annette. And seeing a certain bartender again.
JJ Harniczek was at high school with Brooke, though she was the popular princess and he was the loner poet. They shared one kiss which meant a lot to both of them, but then went their separate ways. JJ travelled the world only to discover that his heart truly lay at home, so he came back and took over running his family’s bar, and is working on opening his own distillery.
When Brooke comes down to JJ’s bar to find a man to take out her sexual frustrations on, JJ gets in her way and the two of them end up sharing a snark-filled bitchfest which ends up with them in bed where things get even more feisty.
I couldn’t stop staring at his cock. I hadn’t looked away since it’d appeared. “Mmhmm?”
“Close your mouth, sweetheart, unless that’s where you want me putting this.”
I glanced up as he joined me on the bed. “Could you talk less? Your cock looks bigger when you’re quiet.”
Brooke is full of snark and she’s not afraid to let her bitch flag fly, but JJ knows just how to handle her. And he gets plenty of opportunity to as their ‘one night only’ becomes more than just one night.
He raised his arm, braced it on the doorframe … “What the hell do you want?”
I glanced down at his jeans. “Take off your pants.”
His brows pinched together. “Come again?”
“I’d love to, but I’m going to need you to drop those jeans first.” I ducked under his arm and stepped into his home. “I trust you have a condom or two.”
It’s a weird dynamic, and I honestly couldn’t always make sense of what was going on between them, but it works for them and it’s so freaking entertaining!
Even from the beginning, there’s clearly a lot going on under the surface, but as time goes on, things begin to shift, and I loved watching their emotions start to show.
“You’ve let me inside you, but not to any of the places that matter.”
Brooke has a lot to deal with personally, and she unexpectedly finds comfort and acceptance with JJ, which rocks her world a little bit. And with her best friend, Annette, by her side and offering sage advice (OMG, those conversations were GOLD!), things start to change for her, and I thought her journey was really beautifully written.
Quick shout out to JJ, because OMG, the man is amazing. Not only is he smart, witty and sexy as all hell, but he’s also got to be one of the most patient men ever! He puts up with a lot from Brooke, but he gives back just as good as he gets, and he certainly doesn’t come off as the beta in the relationship. He is strong, stubborn and caring, and he’s exactly what she needs, and I loved watching them fight for their happy ending.
“I don’t know what I’m doing and it scares the hell out of me, but I know I love you.”
Raw, fragile honesty from this woman was like a shooting star. I kissed her then because come the fuck on, how could I not? “That’s all you need to know.”
Jackson and Annette feature heavily, and I loved catching up with them. Of course, Brooke and Annette are a riot together, but the guys also cracked me up as they awkwardly found their way forward. There’s a brief glimpse of Owen and Cole from Book #1, which I loved, and there’s a hint at more books to come and I am really excited for the possibilities there.
I really enjoyed this book. Another very strongly character-driven story from Kate Canterbary that is fun, feisty, sexy, romantic and emotional with some surprises along the way. It’s a great read.
A solid 4 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2021
I couldn’t like Brooke. She was an entirely unlikable character. Always angry or complaining about something. I couldn’t figure out exactly what JJ found so appealing in her.
July 31, 2020
3.5/5
Brooke was a bit of an annoying character at times. I did really like her chemistry with JJ though.
June 22, 2020
I love this author but this series has had its ups and downs for me. The first half of this book is slow, chatty and disjointed. All that lengthy texting between Annette/Brooke (Although there was 1 text that made me laugh). Then there's the push and pull between JJ and dysfunctional Brooke just wasn't that interesting. I know KC's characters are always dysfunctional, and I love that, but I just wasn't sure I could get on board here. BUT... there's the 2nd half.
At 50% this story thankfully picks and salvages this story. There's more of Annette's love interest, loveable Jackson from bk 2/Hard Pressed. And Brooke stops resisting JJ. The actual story starts to come together and the dialogue gets more interesting. The texting continues but a lot of it's LOL funny. Nate gets settled and gets his smartass on. And that scene at the restaurant between Annette/Brooke and the waiter was hilarious. Before the inevitable HEA, Cole (and Owen) from Fresh Catch bk 1 getting a brief appearance, was another likeable addition.
I was relieved Brooke could finally get out of her head and just enjoy a life with JJ. This story deals with Brooke's dad's dimenta. So I have to cut her some slack. Been there done that life altering chaos and sadness. But all things come to an end and this story did on a very happy note.
At 50% this story thankfully picks and salvages this story. There's more of Annette's love interest, loveable Jackson from bk 2/Hard Pressed. And Brooke stops resisting JJ. The actual story starts to come together and the dialogue gets more interesting. The texting continues but a lot of it's LOL funny. Nate gets settled and gets his smartass on. And that scene at the restaurant between Annette/Brooke and the waiter was hilarious. Before the inevitable HEA, Cole (and Owen) from Fresh Catch bk 1 getting a brief appearance, was another likeable addition.
I was relieved Brooke could finally get out of her head and just enjoy a life with JJ. This story deals with Brooke's dad's dimenta. So I have to cut her some slack. Been there done that life altering chaos and sadness. But all things come to an end and this story did on a very happy note.
December 11, 2019
A fun, intense and overall enjoyable story. Brooke, the main female character was tough to love, she is a lot of high maintnance and crazy. The hero, JJ, is more endearing and approachable. Their story begins long before this book, and the is sort of hinted and half explained, but not really filled in to give it a solid foundation. So it is expected but not really clear why they are pulled towards each other.
The insertion of this couple with the rest of the "wildlife" of this town was organic and well planned. Not so for Brooke's own life crisis... we get she's overwhelmed and going through stuff, yet somehow that aspect read quite selfish & shallow for me... she's supposed to have changed her life for family reasons (her dad's not ok) yet the descriptions of her relationship with her dad was all whinning and resentment, with little nuance for loving care, bittersweet memories or complexed nuanced feelings -- anyone who has ever performed as a caregiver would understand how complex those feelings are, and I interpreted this story on this particular aspect as incomplete...
Adding it all up, it was ok.
The insertion of this couple with the rest of the "wildlife" of this town was organic and well planned. Not so for Brooke's own life crisis... we get she's overwhelmed and going through stuff, yet somehow that aspect read quite selfish & shallow for me... she's supposed to have changed her life for family reasons (her dad's not ok) yet the descriptions of her relationship with her dad was all whinning and resentment, with little nuance for loving care, bittersweet memories or complexed nuanced feelings -- anyone who has ever performed as a caregiver would understand how complex those feelings are, and I interpreted this story on this particular aspect as incomplete...
Adding it all up, it was ok.
September 20, 2019
I picked up Far Cry because the premise sounded interesting--especially Jedediah's tavern situation. I had not read any of the author's previous work, so I was not familiar with the characters or engaged with the series.
I was put off by the dedication, and the rest of the story was much the same. I didn't care for the extreme anger of the main character, Brooke. Perhaps it was justified in prior books... The excessively crass dialogue--whether inner thoughts, text messages or in-person conversations--did nothing for me.
I found the main character and her angry diatribes made me tense, and since reading is my pleasurable escape, I decided to put the book down. I resumed reading a couple times, but I couldn't finish.
The book and the author clearly have some ardent fans, and potential readers should explore their reviews as my review seems to be an outlier.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
I was put off by the dedication, and the rest of the story was much the same. I didn't care for the extreme anger of the main character, Brooke. Perhaps it was justified in prior books... The excessively crass dialogue--whether inner thoughts, text messages or in-person conversations--did nothing for me.
I found the main character and her angry diatribes made me tense, and since reading is my pleasurable escape, I decided to put the book down. I resumed reading a couple times, but I couldn't finish.
The book and the author clearly have some ardent fans, and potential readers should explore their reviews as my review seems to be an outlier.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
August 28, 2019
I was really looking forward to Brooke's book so I was a bit disappointed. While the actual writing was very good, and Annette and Brooke's interactions were very amusing, I had a hard time feeling JJ and Brooke. There was so much animosity and anger. Their relationship seemed toxic to me for most of the book. They both softened at the end, but by then I was so used to the antagonism, I was waiting for an argument to break out.
September 21, 2019
Brooke was mean and angry. Not sure why the book never got into it. This was more a story about the friendship between Brooke and Annette. The pages of text convos between these two were funny but not really what I was looking for in this book. And poor JJ, my Goodness she treated him like crap.
There was no romance between these two so I’m not sure how they fell in love. All they did was have angry sex
There was no romance between these two so I’m not sure how they fell in love. All they did was have angry sex
September 1, 2019
I want to visit the Cove
Maybe even live there. I loved all the books in the series but I’ll admit this one was the best. It’s romance and unconditional love and friendship and a stewing bromance. Just stellar.
Maybe even live there. I loved all the books in the series but I’ll admit this one was the best. It’s romance and unconditional love and friendship and a stewing bromance. Just stellar.
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