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The Bourbon Brothers #4
A Reunion of Rivals
Sparks in the boardroom
and the bedroom…
She can’t let anything derail her passion project,
Not even a second chance with the sexiest man alive…
The deal that could bring Quinn Bazemore’s career back from the brink has one catch: she must partner up with her ex-lover Max Abbott. Quinn can’t forget the pleasure-filled summer they shared. But now she’s butting heads over business strategy with the mouthwatering marketing VP, even as their reawakened desire threatens to expose her deepest secrets…
and the bedroom…
She can’t let anything derail her passion project,
Not even a second chance with the sexiest man alive…
The deal that could bring Quinn Bazemore’s career back from the brink has one catch: she must partner up with her ex-lover Max Abbott. Quinn can’t forget the pleasure-filled summer they shared. But now she’s butting heads over business strategy with the mouthwatering marketing VP, even as their reawakened desire threatens to expose her deepest secrets…
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 11, 2020
142 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
About the author
Reese Ryan
174 books604 followersVivian Award-winning author Reese Ryan writes sexy, emotional, “grown folks” romantic fiction set in small Southern towns. Her characters find love while navigating career crises and family drama.
Reese's books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. She is the host of Story Behind the Story—her YouTube show where readers and authors connect.
Reese's books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. She is the host of Story Behind the Story—her YouTube show where readers and authors connect.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
July 1, 2020
4.5 stars
Reese Ryan’s Bourbon Brothers series centers around an African-American family who own a bourbon distillery in Magnolia Lake, Tennessee. A Reunion of Rivals is the fourth book in the series and is a standalone read.
It’s been 13 years since Quinn Bazemore and Max Abbott have seen each other. They shared one magical summer together. Then he returned to college and broke up with her because he couldn’t trust his intense feelings. He never told her why they broke up. He just left her feeling used and heartbroken. Now the two are reunited when their families form a business partnership.
Max is the VP of Marketing for his family’s company, King’s Finest Distillery. For over two years, he and his younger sister Zora have been working to convince their father Duke, the CEO, to make fruit flavored bourbon a permanent addition to their bourbon line. Duke and Joseph, his father and company founder, finally agree to add the flavored bourbon to their line for a test period. The catch is that Max will be working with Quinn, who will be representing her grandfather’s fruit orchard, Bazemore Orchards. As the two work together, old romantic feelings resurface.
Max and Quinn are both characters I liked immediately. They’re afraid of making the same mistakes of the past. They’re both career-driven, but on the personal front, they’re both vulnerable. Both love their families beyond measure. I loved that when they finally sat down and talked about their past that they were able to truly reconcile.
Reese’s Bourbon Brothers series is one of my favorite series because it’s all about family. The Abbott family is truly my dream family. I love the close-knit bond the parents and siblings all share. Yes, there are times when the siblings don’t get along, but there isn’t any scheming or backstabbing going on. For this group, family is everything.
I think there are two books remaining in the series, featuring the remaining Abbott siblings, Zora and Cole. Over the course of the series, readers have been given a glimpse at these two. I can’t wait to see how these two finally fall in love, Zora with her close friend and Cole with a mystery lady.
~ FAVORITE QUOTES ~
“Fear is a piss-poor decision-maker. Don’t ever make a decision strictly out of fear.”
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed. Also purchased a copy of the book myself.**
Reese Ryan’s Bourbon Brothers series centers around an African-American family who own a bourbon distillery in Magnolia Lake, Tennessee. A Reunion of Rivals is the fourth book in the series and is a standalone read.
It’s been 13 years since Quinn Bazemore and Max Abbott have seen each other. They shared one magical summer together. Then he returned to college and broke up with her because he couldn’t trust his intense feelings. He never told her why they broke up. He just left her feeling used and heartbroken. Now the two are reunited when their families form a business partnership.
Max is the VP of Marketing for his family’s company, King’s Finest Distillery. For over two years, he and his younger sister Zora have been working to convince their father Duke, the CEO, to make fruit flavored bourbon a permanent addition to their bourbon line. Duke and Joseph, his father and company founder, finally agree to add the flavored bourbon to their line for a test period. The catch is that Max will be working with Quinn, who will be representing her grandfather’s fruit orchard, Bazemore Orchards. As the two work together, old romantic feelings resurface.
Max and Quinn are both characters I liked immediately. They’re afraid of making the same mistakes of the past. They’re both career-driven, but on the personal front, they’re both vulnerable. Both love their families beyond measure. I loved that when they finally sat down and talked about their past that they were able to truly reconcile.
Reese’s Bourbon Brothers series is one of my favorite series because it’s all about family. The Abbott family is truly my dream family. I love the close-knit bond the parents and siblings all share. Yes, there are times when the siblings don’t get along, but there isn’t any scheming or backstabbing going on. For this group, family is everything.
I think there are two books remaining in the series, featuring the remaining Abbott siblings, Zora and Cole. Over the course of the series, readers have been given a glimpse at these two. I can’t wait to see how these two finally fall in love, Zora with her close friend and Cole with a mystery lady.
~ FAVORITE QUOTES ~
“Fear is a piss-poor decision-maker. Don’t ever make a decision strictly out of fear.”
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed. Also purchased a copy of the book myself.**
June 29, 2020
Reese Ryan writes delicious and amazing category romances (Oh these Bourbon Brothers), and Reunion of Rivals was a perfect slump buster for me.
A perfect trope-tastic blend of all the things I adore, Max Abbott having to contend with the very real feelings he still feels for Quinn Bazemore while also realizing he has some things to grovel for was so much fun to read.
Also fulfills the "Apple Orchard" square on my Ripped Bodice 2020 Summer Reading Bingo Card, yay!
Thank you to the publisher for the free review copy!
A perfect trope-tastic blend of all the things I adore, Max Abbott having to contend with the very real feelings he still feels for Quinn Bazemore while also realizing he has some things to grovel for was so much fun to read.
Also fulfills the "Apple Orchard" square on my Ripped Bodice 2020 Summer Reading Bingo Card, yay!
Thank you to the publisher for the free review copy!
July 24, 2020
A Reunion of Rivals was a cute story about a second chance romance between Quinn and Max. Quinn is signed on to the family bourbon business to help it expand and grow. She attends her first meeting when she locks eyes with her old flame Max. They are surprised to see each other and it dredges up a lot of old memories of the summer the amazing summer they spent together 10 years ago before Max abruptly ended it. They both have ambitious goals professionally but their personal lives become involved when they are assigned to work together. Quinn would rather not relive the past but Max has other ideas. That chemistry can only be resisted for so long.
The beginning of the novel started out strong for me. I wanted to know all about Quinn and Max and that unforgettable summer over 10 years ago. I liked that Quinn was persistent in keeping her heart shielded because she wanted to succeed professionally. I loved how Max was driven to maintain professionalism throughout but equally persistent in getting Quinn to understand what really happened those 10 years ago. As much as they wanted to resist each other, the heat was there in spades.
Towards the middle and end of the story however, I became a little bit detached. I'm attributing this to myself because this is probably a me problem but they seemed like they were in their head way too much. It was constant questions over every little word or action. sometimes we got the same questions from both POVs which lead to long drawn out resolutions. I'm not saying they had to be neat and tidied up but I felt like I could have read less inner dialogue to enjoy the story more.
Nevertheless, if you like sweet, second chance romances, and don't mind lots of silent talking, definitely give this story a try.
The beginning of the novel started out strong for me. I wanted to know all about Quinn and Max and that unforgettable summer over 10 years ago. I liked that Quinn was persistent in keeping her heart shielded because she wanted to succeed professionally. I loved how Max was driven to maintain professionalism throughout but equally persistent in getting Quinn to understand what really happened those 10 years ago. As much as they wanted to resist each other, the heat was there in spades.
Towards the middle and end of the story however, I became a little bit detached. I'm attributing this to myself because this is probably a me problem but they seemed like they were in their head way too much. It was constant questions over every little word or action. sometimes we got the same questions from both POVs which lead to long drawn out resolutions. I'm not saying they had to be neat and tidied up but I felt like I could have read less inner dialogue to enjoy the story more.
Nevertheless, if you like sweet, second chance romances, and don't mind lots of silent talking, definitely give this story a try.
June 22, 2020
A Reunion of Rivals by Reese Ryan is the latest story in the author’s sexy small town romance series, The Bourbon Brothers.
Quinn Bazemore and Max Abbott had a secret teenaged romance when Max interned at her grandfather’s fruit farm that ended abruptly when Max called things off without explanation. Quinn was heartbroken, but moved on with her life and career, becoming a successful businesswoman.
Years later, Quinn and Max are thrust together when a merger between Max’s family’s distillery business and Quinn’s family farm have them working on marketing for the fruit brandies the merger will produce. Max regrets the way he ended things and he’s never forgotten about Quinn. Is this their chance to rekindle their romance?
I really enjoyed this story! Max and Quinn shared that first love, first passion that seems overwhelming as a teenager and indeed, it was Max getting cold feet that had him pulling away. Later in the story Quinn discovers that Max hadn’t forgotten about her as easily as she’d assumed and working together brings back a lot of those old feelings that neither can ignore.
Their mutual attraction leads to some sexy love scenes, but doesn’t stop them from clashing as they hash out the mistakes made in the past and the way forward. I love that Quinn is a smart, capable, marketing guru who pushes back when Max tries to assume too much control – in his defense he’s used to being the one in charge and his family business is very important to him. But Quinn proves time and again that she wants what’s best for both of their companies, and for them. Though at first she thinks a secret affair will be satisfying enough, Max wants more.
Max’s family is complex and lots of drama and emotion surround their scenes, yet there is a strong sense of affection and loyalty between the siblings. Quinn and her grandfather have a special relationship too and all of the family scenes add to the enjoyment of the story as they celebrate some wonderful milestones. Max and Quinn go through some soul searching and discover that love is even better the second time around. I’m a big fan of this series (love the covers!) and look forward to what’s coming next!
This review appear at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-a-...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
Quinn Bazemore and Max Abbott had a secret teenaged romance when Max interned at her grandfather’s fruit farm that ended abruptly when Max called things off without explanation. Quinn was heartbroken, but moved on with her life and career, becoming a successful businesswoman.
Years later, Quinn and Max are thrust together when a merger between Max’s family’s distillery business and Quinn’s family farm have them working on marketing for the fruit brandies the merger will produce. Max regrets the way he ended things and he’s never forgotten about Quinn. Is this their chance to rekindle their romance?
I really enjoyed this story! Max and Quinn shared that first love, first passion that seems overwhelming as a teenager and indeed, it was Max getting cold feet that had him pulling away. Later in the story Quinn discovers that Max hadn’t forgotten about her as easily as she’d assumed and working together brings back a lot of those old feelings that neither can ignore.
Their mutual attraction leads to some sexy love scenes, but doesn’t stop them from clashing as they hash out the mistakes made in the past and the way forward. I love that Quinn is a smart, capable, marketing guru who pushes back when Max tries to assume too much control – in his defense he’s used to being the one in charge and his family business is very important to him. But Quinn proves time and again that she wants what’s best for both of their companies, and for them. Though at first she thinks a secret affair will be satisfying enough, Max wants more.
Max’s family is complex and lots of drama and emotion surround their scenes, yet there is a strong sense of affection and loyalty between the siblings. Quinn and her grandfather have a special relationship too and all of the family scenes add to the enjoyment of the story as they celebrate some wonderful milestones. Max and Quinn go through some soul searching and discover that love is even better the second time around. I’m a big fan of this series (love the covers!) and look forward to what’s coming next!
This review appear at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-a-...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
July 10, 2020
A Reunion of Rivals is book #4 in The Bourbon Brothers series but can be read as a standalone.
Reese Ryan became an auto-buy for me because her books are fun, full of family cheer, and tastefully steamy.
Thirteen years ago, Max Abbott interned at Bazemore Farms during the summer and, against his better judgment, had a fling with Old Bazelmore's granddaughter Quinn.
He regretted the way things ended, but the last thing he wanted was to have the now all grown up and gorgeous Quinn putting her nose in his family business and taking responsibility for a project he has spent months working on.
Quinn never understood why Max ended things so callously, but she was coming from a terrible breakup, and the last thing she wanted was to risk her career or her grandfather's business.
I love how the book is set in the workplace, but you don't feel like you are going to work (I really dislike it when that happens - lol).
Quinn and Max were intelligent, fun to be with, and had great chemistry together. They made mistakes like all of us, and it made them feel more real.
Reese Ryan became an auto-buy for me because her books are fun, full of family cheer, and tastefully steamy.
I love that they are usually short and can be read in one sitting, but, at the same time, there is proper story development and easy-to-relate-to characters.
This was the first book I read in this series, but I loved it so much I could not resist reading Parker's book as well (Engaging the Enemy). Parker was so delightful! I can't wait to read the stories of all the Bourbon siblings.
A Reunion of Rivals is a lovely second-chance, enemies-to-lovers, short read.
Reese Ryan became an auto-buy for me because her books are fun, full of family cheer, and tastefully steamy.
Thirteen years ago, Max Abbott interned at Bazemore Farms during the summer and, against his better judgment, had a fling with Old Bazelmore's granddaughter Quinn.
He regretted the way things ended, but the last thing he wanted was to have the now all grown up and gorgeous Quinn putting her nose in his family business and taking responsibility for a project he has spent months working on.
Quinn never understood why Max ended things so callously, but she was coming from a terrible breakup, and the last thing she wanted was to risk her career or her grandfather's business.
I love how the book is set in the workplace, but you don't feel like you are going to work (I really dislike it when that happens - lol).
Quinn and Max were intelligent, fun to be with, and had great chemistry together. They made mistakes like all of us, and it made them feel more real.
Reese Ryan became an auto-buy for me because her books are fun, full of family cheer, and tastefully steamy.
I love that they are usually short and can be read in one sitting, but, at the same time, there is proper story development and easy-to-relate-to characters.
This was the first book I read in this series, but I loved it so much I could not resist reading Parker's book as well (Engaging the Enemy). Parker was so delightful! I can't wait to read the stories of all the Bourbon siblings.
A Reunion of Rivals is a lovely second-chance, enemies-to-lovers, short read.
June 19, 2020
A Reunion of Rivals has the former lovers trope goodness that everyone craves. Harlequin Desire always manages to gives us steamy content while making us falling in love at the same time. This one isn't different when Max and Quinn meet again after years of not seeing each other, only to be working together in the same project.
This cover is probably one of the best covers of this year. The hold, the dress, the models. Reese Ryan's covers are royalty and for her upcoming one, A Reunion of Rivals, they obviously had to be up there with the others. The cover might make you get the book but I assure you that the content is just as beautiful and sexy.
Sexual and emotional tension, unresolved feelings, some hate to love, former lovers, wholesome family, this new romance is going to make you feel a lot of things. There is also this slow burn romance where you just want the two leads to KISS!!! The yearning *oof* The time it takes for them to get together again is perfect tbh because there are so many misunderstandings and unresolved things they need to talk about first before they get to do anything.
I love Ryan's way of crafting a romance that broke years ago but will slowly form itself back together. The development from where they started to where they will end is *chef kiss* I cannot wait for the next title in this series. The Abbott siblings and family are my one and only. Zora!!! Cole!!! I just know their romances are going to be god tier.
I received a galley in exchange for an honest review.
This cover is probably one of the best covers of this year. The hold, the dress, the models. Reese Ryan's covers are royalty and for her upcoming one, A Reunion of Rivals, they obviously had to be up there with the others. The cover might make you get the book but I assure you that the content is just as beautiful and sexy.
Sexual and emotional tension, unresolved feelings, some hate to love, former lovers, wholesome family, this new romance is going to make you feel a lot of things. There is also this slow burn romance where you just want the two leads to KISS!!! The yearning *oof* The time it takes for them to get together again is perfect tbh because there are so many misunderstandings and unresolved things they need to talk about first before they get to do anything.
I love Ryan's way of crafting a romance that broke years ago but will slowly form itself back together. The development from where they started to where they will end is *chef kiss* I cannot wait for the next title in this series. The Abbott siblings and family are my one and only. Zora!!! Cole!!! I just know their romances are going to be god tier.
I received a galley in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2020
*NetGalley Review*
I started The Bourbon Brothers Series last year and I always look forward to reading the next book. I love the small town, big, meddling family vibe when I’m reading this series. Max and Quinn had a summer fling as teenagers but it true fashion it ended when summer was over. Fast forward several years later and they are forced to work together and neither are pleased. The back and forth between the two of them was everything. You could cut the tension with a knife and I loved it.
I loved that Quinn stood her ground when it came to Max. I liked their relationship progressed. It was nice to see characters from the other books as well. It was nice catching up with them all. I do like that Max and Quinn took things slow and didn’t rush when it came to starting up again.
Even though this is Book 4 in the series Ryan, does a good job of filling you in about the other characters without taking away from the current story. I’m looking forward to reading about Zora next!
I started The Bourbon Brothers Series last year and I always look forward to reading the next book. I love the small town, big, meddling family vibe when I’m reading this series. Max and Quinn had a summer fling as teenagers but it true fashion it ended when summer was over. Fast forward several years later and they are forced to work together and neither are pleased. The back and forth between the two of them was everything. You could cut the tension with a knife and I loved it.
I loved that Quinn stood her ground when it came to Max. I liked their relationship progressed. It was nice to see characters from the other books as well. It was nice catching up with them all. I do like that Max and Quinn took things slow and didn’t rush when it came to starting up again.
Even though this is Book 4 in the series Ryan, does a good job of filling you in about the other characters without taking away from the current story. I’m looking forward to reading about Zora next!
July 5, 2020
4.5/5⭐
[I received a digital arc from the publisher for an honest review]
A Reunion of Rivals is my first Reese Ryan romance and I loved every moment of it. It is actually my first Harlequin Desire novel also and I have totally been missing out. This is the 4th book in The Bourbon Brother series but I can completely be read as a stand alone.
"What was it about Quinn that had always made him feel a complete loss of control?"
Quinn and Max had an unforgettable secret summer before they began college and when things became to real, Max walked away from them and has regretted it ever since. Now over a decade later they are forced to work together in order to save both their families legacies and their own job positions. But the connection between them is as present as it ever was but can Quinn risk mixing business with pleasure when her job on the line and more importantly her heart.
"What she felt for Max wasn't just desire. It was need and something more."
Quinn was the star of this book for me she was so assertive and brilliant. She held strong around Max and protected her heart until he deserved for her to open herself to him. Max was also a great character because of his faults. He was business smart and confident but when it came to Quinn he was unsure and insecure. Some of my favorite moments were him being vulnerable and asking Quinn to take the lead. The slow burn romance between them was worth the wait and when they come together it's passionate and emotional.
"One kiss was all it had taken to get him completely addicted to the sweet taste of her mouth To the lush feel of her soft curves pressed against him."
A Reunion of Rivals by Reese Ryan is second chance romance that is guaranteed to entertain you from beginning to end. All the characters are wonderful from the main ones to each and every side characters, especially Cole - I need more of him <3 . It made me go back and buy the other books in the series to satisfy me until the next book releases in 2021.
[I received a digital arc from the publisher for an honest review]
A Reunion of Rivals is my first Reese Ryan romance and I loved every moment of it. It is actually my first Harlequin Desire novel also and I have totally been missing out. This is the 4th book in The Bourbon Brother series but I can completely be read as a stand alone.
"What was it about Quinn that had always made him feel a complete loss of control?"
Quinn and Max had an unforgettable secret summer before they began college and when things became to real, Max walked away from them and has regretted it ever since. Now over a decade later they are forced to work together in order to save both their families legacies and their own job positions. But the connection between them is as present as it ever was but can Quinn risk mixing business with pleasure when her job on the line and more importantly her heart.
"What she felt for Max wasn't just desire. It was need and something more."
Quinn was the star of this book for me she was so assertive and brilliant. She held strong around Max and protected her heart until he deserved for her to open herself to him. Max was also a great character because of his faults. He was business smart and confident but when it came to Quinn he was unsure and insecure. Some of my favorite moments were him being vulnerable and asking Quinn to take the lead. The slow burn romance between them was worth the wait and when they come together it's passionate and emotional.
"One kiss was all it had taken to get him completely addicted to the sweet taste of her mouth To the lush feel of her soft curves pressed against him."
A Reunion of Rivals by Reese Ryan is second chance romance that is guaranteed to entertain you from beginning to end. All the characters are wonderful from the main ones to each and every side characters, especially Cole - I need more of him <3 . It made me go back and buy the other books in the series to satisfy me until the next book releases in 2021.
August 3, 2020
I really liked the romance between Quinn and Max!
This is the first book I have read from Reese Ryan and it is definitely not the last. She has a really great way at grabbing your attention and keeping it.
Max and Quinn had an amazing summer together when Max interned at Quinn’s grandfathers farm. Max was 21 and Quinn was 18. They fell in love but unfortunately because of fear and misunderstandings after the summer they loose contact.
Now 13 years later they meet again and are forced to work together on a project that Max sees as his, so he has troubles with letting Quinn come in from the sidelines and take it over. So besides the project they also struggle with their feelings for each other so how on earth are they going to make everything work? Can they work their way through all the drama and misunderstandings to finally get a happy ever after?
Max and Quinn are so great together and I really rutted for them to find their love for each other again!
In the beginning I unfortunately was really annoyed with Max because he couldn’t let anyone except their family work on the project. It was like he felt very entitled and nobody outside the family could come in and overtake the project especially not Quinn. His jealousy really annoyed me too. He was too alpha but then suddenly he changed and became this amazing man who would do anything to be with Quinn and their working relationship also became more ambitious and real.
I loved all the drama in the family and all the family and friends events that happen throughout the story. The siblings in Max’s family are so different some you get so angry at and others you just feel for and want to help. And I need to know how Parker and Blake met their significant others and also why they are who they are so I am definitely going to read their books to.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book I have read from Reese Ryan and it is definitely not the last. She has a really great way at grabbing your attention and keeping it.
Max and Quinn had an amazing summer together when Max interned at Quinn’s grandfathers farm. Max was 21 and Quinn was 18. They fell in love but unfortunately because of fear and misunderstandings after the summer they loose contact.
Now 13 years later they meet again and are forced to work together on a project that Max sees as his, so he has troubles with letting Quinn come in from the sidelines and take it over. So besides the project they also struggle with their feelings for each other so how on earth are they going to make everything work? Can they work their way through all the drama and misunderstandings to finally get a happy ever after?
Max and Quinn are so great together and I really rutted for them to find their love for each other again!
In the beginning I unfortunately was really annoyed with Max because he couldn’t let anyone except their family work on the project. It was like he felt very entitled and nobody outside the family could come in and overtake the project especially not Quinn. His jealousy really annoyed me too. He was too alpha but then suddenly he changed and became this amazing man who would do anything to be with Quinn and their working relationship also became more ambitious and real.
I loved all the drama in the family and all the family and friends events that happen throughout the story. The siblings in Max’s family are so different some you get so angry at and others you just feel for and want to help. And I need to know how Parker and Blake met their significant others and also why they are who they are so I am definitely going to read their books to.
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2020
A Reunion of Rivals was a fantastic read featuring an amazing second chance romance.
Max Abbott has been working on expanding the offerings at King’s Finest Distillery for nearly three years. But when his father announces he's ready to go ahead with the new line, Max's happiness is short lived after he finds out his father hired Max's ex Quinn Bazemore to help with the launch. As Max and Quinn work in close proximity on the launch, their reignited attraction threatens to derail their project.
Max and Quinn had a short but intense relationship thirteen years prior to the story, but after Max handled ending the relationship poorly, the pair went their separate ways avoiding each other for over a decade. It does take some time for Max and Quinn to work past what happened when they were younger as Quinn is adamant she doesn't want to talk about the past. While I do wish they had worked things out sooner so we could've gotten to the new relationship faster, it ultimately made sense that Quinn would be reluctant to dredge up one of the most painful periods in her life. But, once the two do work things out, their romance heats up quickly from there. The chemistry between these characters was simply phenomenal and I loved watching the sexual tension build throughout the first half of the book. Once the two resume a sexual relationship, the scenes are steamy and incredibly well done. Ultimately I liked how the pair reached their happily ever after and it was nice that it was a fairly low angst experience.
One thing I loved about this book was the Abbott family dynamics. The relationships between the siblings was quite realistic with varying levels of closeness between them. Large families that are a central focus are one of my favorite things to see in romance books and the Abbott family was no exception. Not all of the family relationships are easy, particularly where Max's relationship with his brother Cole is concerned, but those complexities are what make the characters feel more real and I appreciated the attention to detail the author paid in such a short book.
A Reunion of Rivals was my first Reese Ryan book and it definitely won't be my last. I highly recommend this story and will be checking out the rest of the series in the future.
**I received an advance copy of this book from the author via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.**
Max Abbott has been working on expanding the offerings at King’s Finest Distillery for nearly three years. But when his father announces he's ready to go ahead with the new line, Max's happiness is short lived after he finds out his father hired Max's ex Quinn Bazemore to help with the launch. As Max and Quinn work in close proximity on the launch, their reignited attraction threatens to derail their project.
Max and Quinn had a short but intense relationship thirteen years prior to the story, but after Max handled ending the relationship poorly, the pair went their separate ways avoiding each other for over a decade. It does take some time for Max and Quinn to work past what happened when they were younger as Quinn is adamant she doesn't want to talk about the past. While I do wish they had worked things out sooner so we could've gotten to the new relationship faster, it ultimately made sense that Quinn would be reluctant to dredge up one of the most painful periods in her life. But, once the two do work things out, their romance heats up quickly from there. The chemistry between these characters was simply phenomenal and I loved watching the sexual tension build throughout the first half of the book. Once the two resume a sexual relationship, the scenes are steamy and incredibly well done. Ultimately I liked how the pair reached their happily ever after and it was nice that it was a fairly low angst experience.
One thing I loved about this book was the Abbott family dynamics. The relationships between the siblings was quite realistic with varying levels of closeness between them. Large families that are a central focus are one of my favorite things to see in romance books and the Abbott family was no exception. Not all of the family relationships are easy, particularly where Max's relationship with his brother Cole is concerned, but those complexities are what make the characters feel more real and I appreciated the attention to detail the author paid in such a short book.
A Reunion of Rivals was my first Reese Ryan book and it definitely won't be my last. I highly recommend this story and will be checking out the rest of the series in the future.
**I received an advance copy of this book from the author via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.**
February 14, 2021
This was a really fun second chance office romance with a drop of enemies to lovers. I really liked Quinn and Max together. And there was no 3rd act breakup so yayyy! I felt like it might have all been resolved a little too quickly and easily, but did I mind... nope.
September 6, 2020
Quinn and Max have a history and years ago went their separate ways when things didn’t work out. Fast forward, when they meet again on a new deal Quinn needs to revitalize her career. This is a slow burn romance but a quick read. If you are a fan of work place romances and second romances with a little bit of enemies to lovers throw in, check this one out. I was particularly a fan of Quinn as a strong, career focused woman. Seem to many romances featuring strong women lately and I’m loving it!
Thanks to the publisher for an advance copy of this book.
Thanks to the publisher for an advance copy of this book.
April 24, 2022
Notes
Quinn stood her ground. The waffling woman is the worst. She would not be left bereft for the second time. She would control the outcome.
No resolution about family partnership
Who gets tattoo but never returns?
Wanted more romance history on Max.
Max arrogance and ego was a bit much
Loved the brother Parker character. I like he speaks his mind w/o censure
Stories with intelligent partnerships are great ones
Patriarchal families are appealing and needed. Most are matriarch
3 steams for this book (2 scenes)
Sibling love/bond and rivalry ..... Family dynamic awesome
I recommend and will continue on with the series.
Thanks to Harlequin Desire for proving me with an eARC for review.
Quinn stood her ground. The waffling woman is the worst. She would not be left bereft for the second time. She would control the outcome.
No resolution about family partnership
Who gets tattoo but never returns?
Wanted more romance history on Max.
Max arrogance and ego was a bit much
Loved the brother Parker character. I like he speaks his mind w/o censure
Stories with intelligent partnerships are great ones
Patriarchal families are appealing and needed. Most are matriarch
3 steams for this book (2 scenes)
Sibling love/bond and rivalry ..... Family dynamic awesome
I recommend and will continue on with the series.
Thanks to Harlequin Desire for proving me with an eARC for review.
April 28, 2023
An awesome page turner that wasn't overwhelmed with repetitive sex scenes. Loved that!
Max just about fell up out of his chair, when Quinn walked into his family's conference room. Her presence filled him with regret, remorse and guilt for the way he dumped her when they were in college.
Quinn really needs this new career opportunity, with Max's Company, so she has to bury her anger and heartache really deep down.
But can they bury the past or is it just too impossible for Quinn to forgive and forget?
July 1, 2020
A Reunion of Rivals is a wonderful story. It’s a sweet, sexy and quick read. I loved watching Quinn and Max reconnect and getting to catch up on what’s going on with the previous couples. I enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Copy provided by author
Copy provided by author
July 3, 2020
After her last job ended badly Quinn finds herself back in her hometown helping her Grandfather’s fruit orchard as he collaborates with his long time friend to create fruit flavored drinks. The only drawback is that it will mean working with the man who ended their relationship years earlier with no warning or explanation.
Max is a VP at his family’s company and is shocked to see Quinn when he walks into the boardroom. He was happy to find out that his grandfather had finally agreed to the new product but he isn’t looking forward to working with the woman he hurt especially when he has his own reasons for managing the project on his own.
As they work together the chemistry between them ignites but when you throw in some jealous rivalry between brother’s and the fact that Quinn isn’t about to let him break her heart a second time their journey will definitely have it’s obstacles.
The chemistry between them is intense, the characters are captivating and there is a great cast of secondary characters that enhance the story.
Max is a VP at his family’s company and is shocked to see Quinn when he walks into the boardroom. He was happy to find out that his grandfather had finally agreed to the new product but he isn’t looking forward to working with the woman he hurt especially when he has his own reasons for managing the project on his own.
As they work together the chemistry between them ignites but when you throw in some jealous rivalry between brother’s and the fact that Quinn isn’t about to let him break her heart a second time their journey will definitely have it’s obstacles.
The chemistry between them is intense, the characters are captivating and there is a great cast of secondary characters that enhance the story.
November 25, 2020
They've known each other all their life and had a summer fling when he worked at her grandpa's farm. But he broke her heart and Quinn never really knew why. It's been more than a decade since they last saw each other but Max is about to re-enter her life, thanks to a partnership between their family business. But how can he hope for a second chance when she doesn't even want to talk about the past?
I'll admit I enjoyed the second part of the book more than the first. The beginning was more about work and business deal but once Quinn and Max started to cleared the air and talked about the past and their feelings, their chemistry and emotions were flowing more organically and seemed stronger to me. Their physical intimacy was a beautiful thing to read about too.
It was my first time reading a book in this series but it totally work as a standalone and made me curious to read the others character's HEA.
I'll admit I enjoyed the second part of the book more than the first. The beginning was more about work and business deal but once Quinn and Max started to cleared the air and talked about the past and their feelings, their chemistry and emotions were flowing more organically and seemed stronger to me. Their physical intimacy was a beautiful thing to read about too.
It was my first time reading a book in this series but it totally work as a standalone and made me curious to read the others character's HEA.
November 12, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
My first Reese Ryan book was a winner! I'll be the first to admit, this gorgeous cover is what drew me in first. But what's behind that cover is a real gem. The whole enemies-to-lovers-second-chance romance really worked for me. Quinn and Max were everything. I was rooting hard for them. The mix of feels and heat was perfect. It's also worth noting I feel compelled to go back and read the rest of the series, so I think I'll be doing that soon.
My first Reese Ryan book was a winner! I'll be the first to admit, this gorgeous cover is what drew me in first. But what's behind that cover is a real gem. The whole enemies-to-lovers-second-chance romance really worked for me. Quinn and Max were everything. I was rooting hard for them. The mix of feels and heat was perfect. It's also worth noting I feel compelled to go back and read the rest of the series, so I think I'll be doing that soon.
July 5, 2020
I would put this in my liked pile not my loved pile for the simple reason I'm about to explain.
When I started reading this book I was like yessssssss a second chance romance. I'm sooo here for it but as I kept reading I felt like nothing much was happening with the storyline. No exciting events or any significant progress was happening 45% in and I was really disappointed.
I felt like the book was more about the company than about Quinn and max hence, giving this book 3 stars.
When I started reading this book I was like yessssssss a second chance romance. I'm sooo here for it but as I kept reading I felt like nothing much was happening with the storyline. No exciting events or any significant progress was happening 45% in and I was really disappointed.
I felt like the book was more about the company than about Quinn and max hence, giving this book 3 stars.
January 5, 2022
Second chance romances aren't my favorite, but this was sweet for what it was.
I like the follow-up to Parker's little shake-up of the family business. I'm really interested to see who ends up being named CEO.
I like the follow-up to Parker's little shake-up of the family business. I'm really interested to see who ends up being named CEO.
August 3, 2020
Good second chance romance. Max and Quinn had a secret relationship one summer before leaving for college. Quinn was eighteen, and Max was twenty. Quinn was heartbroken when Max suddenly broke off the relationship and disappeared from her life. They haven’t seen each other for thirteen years until Quinn walks into the boardroom at King’s Finest and upends his life.
Max and his sister worked for two years to convince their father and grandfather to take a chance on producing fruit brandies. Now that they have agreed, as Marketing VP, Max is ready for the next step. He is angry when told that the marketing project will be headed by someone else, and stunned when he finds out it is Quinn.
Quinn is determined to make this campaign a success for two reasons. First, the fruit for the brandy comes from her grandfather’s farm. The success of the venture will make or break his business. Second, Quinn needs this job to repair the professional reputation trashed by her vindictive ex-fiancé and his father (her former employer).
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Quinn and Max. On the work side, Max had to get over his resentment at having Quinn put in charge. It took a little doing, but he did finally realize that it made sense to have someone who could devote the time to it. I had to laugh when he admitted that he couldn’t come up with any ideas that were better than hers. That helped them relax into a good working relationship. But under that working relationship simmered the renewal of their attraction.
I liked the fact that Max immediately tried to apologize for the way he broke off their prior relationship. He knew he was wrong when he did it, but the intensity of his feelings for Quinn scared him. Quinn doesn’t want to hear his apology. She wants to keep the past in the past and keep the present professional. Having been burned by her recent relationship, Quinn doubts the wisdom of getting involved with Max again, both for the risk to her heart and the risk to her career. In addition to working together, they are also thrown together during several social occasions. It doesn’t take long for Max to realize that he wants Quinn back in his life, but overcoming the obstacles won’t be easy. Quinn fights against her feelings and tries to convince herself that a secret fling is all she wants. I loved it when she got to the point where she trusted him enough to tell him about her ex. Max’s understanding and patience went a long way toward making Quinn believe in their feelings. I loved the ending scene with the family.
One of my favorite things about this series is the closeness of the Abbott family. Their love and respect for each other is evident but doesn’t preclude some familial difficulties. There is an ongoing storyline dealing with brother Parker’s belief that he should be the next CEO, rather than the oldest brother Blake. That comes to a head in this book. I thought the issue was handled realistically, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it plays out. I liked seeing more of the youngest and only girl, Zora. She is good at what she does but is also the one who tends to stick her nose in everybody’s business. I liked her interactions with Quinn and loved how she poked at Max. I found the youngest brother, Cole, very intriguing. He is the only one not involved in the family business, which has caused some stress. Things between him and Max are especially tense and become more so when Max discovers that Cole and Quinn have been good friends for years. Max’s jealousy was obvious, even when Cole tried to set him straight. I ached for Cole, who is hurt by the attitudes of Max and the rest of the family. I look forward to his book and seeing him come into his own - and lose his womanizer status!
Max and his sister worked for two years to convince their father and grandfather to take a chance on producing fruit brandies. Now that they have agreed, as Marketing VP, Max is ready for the next step. He is angry when told that the marketing project will be headed by someone else, and stunned when he finds out it is Quinn.
Quinn is determined to make this campaign a success for two reasons. First, the fruit for the brandy comes from her grandfather’s farm. The success of the venture will make or break his business. Second, Quinn needs this job to repair the professional reputation trashed by her vindictive ex-fiancé and his father (her former employer).
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Quinn and Max. On the work side, Max had to get over his resentment at having Quinn put in charge. It took a little doing, but he did finally realize that it made sense to have someone who could devote the time to it. I had to laugh when he admitted that he couldn’t come up with any ideas that were better than hers. That helped them relax into a good working relationship. But under that working relationship simmered the renewal of their attraction.
I liked the fact that Max immediately tried to apologize for the way he broke off their prior relationship. He knew he was wrong when he did it, but the intensity of his feelings for Quinn scared him. Quinn doesn’t want to hear his apology. She wants to keep the past in the past and keep the present professional. Having been burned by her recent relationship, Quinn doubts the wisdom of getting involved with Max again, both for the risk to her heart and the risk to her career. In addition to working together, they are also thrown together during several social occasions. It doesn’t take long for Max to realize that he wants Quinn back in his life, but overcoming the obstacles won’t be easy. Quinn fights against her feelings and tries to convince herself that a secret fling is all she wants. I loved it when she got to the point where she trusted him enough to tell him about her ex. Max’s understanding and patience went a long way toward making Quinn believe in their feelings. I loved the ending scene with the family.
One of my favorite things about this series is the closeness of the Abbott family. Their love and respect for each other is evident but doesn’t preclude some familial difficulties. There is an ongoing storyline dealing with brother Parker’s belief that he should be the next CEO, rather than the oldest brother Blake. That comes to a head in this book. I thought the issue was handled realistically, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it plays out. I liked seeing more of the youngest and only girl, Zora. She is good at what she does but is also the one who tends to stick her nose in everybody’s business. I liked her interactions with Quinn and loved how she poked at Max. I found the youngest brother, Cole, very intriguing. He is the only one not involved in the family business, which has caused some stress. Things between him and Max are especially tense and become more so when Max discovers that Cole and Quinn have been good friends for years. Max’s jealousy was obvious, even when Cole tried to set him straight. I ached for Cole, who is hurt by the attitudes of Max and the rest of the family. I look forward to his book and seeing him come into his own - and lose his womanizer status!
August 16, 2020
A Reunion of Rivals is the story of Quinn and Max who once shared a very hot and passionate summer that didn’t get to blossom. Max sets eyes on Quinn for the first time in years and all those feelings he has never forgotten about came back like a floodgate opening and their chemistry is undeniable.
Reese once again did not disappoint. She brings the Heat,drama, friends to lovers and enemies to lovers and wraps it all up with a bow. I truly enjoyed Max and Quinn’s story, some people are not lucky enough to receive a second chance at true love, if that is what their heart desires. Personally I did not like the end because It left me with so many questions that I truly hope gets answered. I am really looking forward to Coles’s story because he has been through so much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Reese once again did not disappoint. She brings the Heat,drama, friends to lovers and enemies to lovers and wraps it all up with a bow. I truly enjoyed Max and Quinn’s story, some people are not lucky enough to receive a second chance at true love, if that is what their heart desires. Personally I did not like the end because It left me with so many questions that I truly hope gets answered. I am really looking forward to Coles’s story because he has been through so much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2020
Reese Ryan penned a novel that is sexy, inspiring and completely engaging. As we dive into the Bourbon Brothers once again, we experience the reaquantiance of Quinn Bazemore and Max Abbott.
Quinn returns to the family business only to be capulated into business with someone from the past. Max is knocked completely off balance when he is thrown into working with someone from his past.
We watch, laugh, get angry and laugh again as they scoot, crawl, walk then run to each other while handling business. What or who will win. This was a grand read.
I give their journey 5 stars.
Quinn returns to the family business only to be capulated into business with someone from the past. Max is knocked completely off balance when he is thrown into working with someone from his past.
We watch, laugh, get angry and laugh again as they scoot, crawl, walk then run to each other while handling business. What or who will win. This was a grand read.
I give their journey 5 stars.
July 13, 2020
A Reunion of Rivals by Reese Ryan is the fourth book in the Bourbon Brothers series. Quinn Bazemore, a public relations guru, is recovering from a sorted past in Atlanta, comes to Magnolia Lake, Tennessee, to forge a partnership with King’s Finest Distillery and her grandfather’s orchard. Unbeknownst to Quinn, Max Abbott, marketing VP of King’s Finest, may derail Quinn’s glow-up.
🥃
🥃
Ryan never fails to deliver on romance, but in this installment, she ups-the-ante with the family drama! In Engaging the Enemy, book 3, seeds of discontentment were teased with the position of CEO. The payoff in A Reunion of Rivals is handled masterfully and introduces a new dynamic. I found myself riveted by the corporate intrigue. All I can say is Parker...Paker…Paker…if slap the taste outta yo mouth were a person, it would be Parker. But the real star of the family is Cole! He stepped on the scene and shut the whole book down!
🥃
Hero -Max Abbott – is a complicated man. His commitment to the family legacy limits his perspective on success and individuality. I understood his possessiveness over the brandy project, but I wanted him to confront his conflicted feelings sooner. Luckily one of his siblings gives him the business, which kicks him into high gear.
🥃
🥃
Heroine – Quinn Bazemore – the quintessential boss chick on a mission to secure the bag. Her hustle is undeniable, but she’s not the stereotypical “strong Black woman.” Quinn is vulnerable, unsure, and healing from an unfortunate “entanglement.”
🥃
🥃
Max and Quinn’s journey ends with an HFW (Happily for Now), which is realistic because of their emotional baggage. Wounds don’t heal from a simple I-Love-You, only action, effort, and time smooth the rough ridges of past transgressions.
🥃🥃🥃🥃 4 glasses of Bourbon
🥃
🥃
Ryan never fails to deliver on romance, but in this installment, she ups-the-ante with the family drama! In Engaging the Enemy, book 3, seeds of discontentment were teased with the position of CEO. The payoff in A Reunion of Rivals is handled masterfully and introduces a new dynamic. I found myself riveted by the corporate intrigue. All I can say is Parker...Paker…Paker…if slap the taste outta yo mouth were a person, it would be Parker. But the real star of the family is Cole! He stepped on the scene and shut the whole book down!
🥃
Hero -Max Abbott – is a complicated man. His commitment to the family legacy limits his perspective on success and individuality. I understood his possessiveness over the brandy project, but I wanted him to confront his conflicted feelings sooner. Luckily one of his siblings gives him the business, which kicks him into high gear.
🥃
🥃
Heroine – Quinn Bazemore – the quintessential boss chick on a mission to secure the bag. Her hustle is undeniable, but she’s not the stereotypical “strong Black woman.” Quinn is vulnerable, unsure, and healing from an unfortunate “entanglement.”
🥃
🥃
Max and Quinn’s journey ends with an HFW (Happily for Now), which is realistic because of their emotional baggage. Wounds don’t heal from a simple I-Love-You, only action, effort, and time smooth the rough ridges of past transgressions.
🥃🥃🥃🥃 4 glasses of Bourbon
October 9, 2020
This has been my favorite Reese Ryan book to date. It's a second chance love story between Max and Quinn, who are unexpectedly reunited when Quinn becomes the PR lead on a joint project between their two family's companies. It was an incredibly abrupt ending between the two of them and there's a lot of tension because Quinn is none too pleased to be around Max again, but she's also determined to excel at her job.
I don't know that I can fully articulate why I enjoyed this book so much, but it was just such a delight to read. I don't normally like second chance romances, but something about this one just really swept me away. I absolutely adored what Max did after their breakup, but I won't spoil anything. I loved seeing the family members in the background and I'm anxious for the next books in the series. I love Cole, but I think Reece Ryan is saving him for last.
I just really liked this one and would definitely recommend if you're in the mood for a quick category romance to hit the spot.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for the opportunity to read and review this book!
I don't know that I can fully articulate why I enjoyed this book so much, but it was just such a delight to read. I don't normally like second chance romances, but something about this one just really swept me away. I absolutely adored what Max did after their breakup, but I won't spoil anything. I loved seeing the family members in the background and I'm anxious for the next books in the series. I love Cole, but I think Reece Ryan is saving him for last.
I just really liked this one and would definitely recommend if you're in the mood for a quick category romance to hit the spot.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin for the opportunity to read and review this book!
December 30, 2024
A misunderstanding when they were younger caused Max Abbott and Quinn Bazemore to break up. Now years later, they meet again, with Max working at his family's distillery and Quinn working PR at her grandfather's fruit farm, when the two companies combine their efforts to produce a line of special alcoholic beverages. Tensions are high when they are first reunited, and the two have to find a way to confront their feelings as well as reconcile the past in order to be able to work together amicably. The question becomes will they be able to rekindle the love they had in the past.
I love this author's books, and this one is no exception. I especially loved some of the tension between the two characters as well as the family dynamics of all the characters. This book has a great story line and it was a very well written second chance read.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I love this author's books, and this one is no exception. I especially loved some of the tension between the two characters as well as the family dynamics of all the characters. This book has a great story line and it was a very well written second chance read.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 17, 2022
Yeah this is not my cup of tea. I really can't stand the whole FWB tropes. I just can't wrap my head around how such an intelligent woman thinks it's a good idea to be FWB with a man she clearly wants to be with. It was honestly irritating to me that she kept being saying things like "it was supposed to be only sex, why are my feelings involved." LMAO 💀
Maybe because you already liked him? On top of that what is she possible gaining from that situation. The icing on the cake was when she mentioned she didn't want to date him because she had a previous work relationship end up being very messy. It ended up impacting her career. So sleeping with someone at work with have no ramifications but dating will? I just can't stand the mental olympics.
Maybe because you already liked him? On top of that what is she possible gaining from that situation. The icing on the cake was when she mentioned she didn't want to date him because she had a previous work relationship end up being very messy. It ended up impacting her career. So sleeping with someone at work with have no ramifications but dating will? I just can't stand the mental olympics.
July 10, 2020
Welcome to Magnolia Lake, TN where the Bourbon Brothers series takes place. In this book, Max Abbott comes face-to-face with the one who got away when he is paired with PR whiz Quinn Bazemore to promote the latest offering from his family’s distillery. Can they get past their differences and the mistakes that happened between them long ago?
I really enjoyed this quick read and am excited to read the rest of the series!
I really enjoyed this quick read and am excited to read the rest of the series!
July 20, 2020
Can Quinn and Max toil together for the sake of their families despite their past
Quinn and Max’s past is always in their periphery as they collaborate to market their families businesses together. While their past and current misunderstandings continue to drive their interactions, will they ever be able to leave the past behind to find a future? You will hate Max in the beginning until you don’t! I could not put this book down, it was first-class.
Quinn and Max’s past is always in their periphery as they collaborate to market their families businesses together. While their past and current misunderstandings continue to drive their interactions, will they ever be able to leave the past behind to find a future? You will hate Max in the beginning until you don’t! I could not put this book down, it was first-class.
July 20, 2020
The rivalry between Quinn and Max is amazing. After meeting up after their summer fling and having to work together is crazy. But knowing the feelings that had were still there. The outcome was simply amazing.
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