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“What we have can’t be faked.”
Max Jackson’s life is pretty close to perfect—except that he’s secretly in love with his straight best friend and roommate. He’s got his dream job and a family he secretly pretends are his own. But they aren’t… no matter how much he might wish it were true.
After the tragic death of his wife, Parker Wilson didn’t have time to wallow in grief—not when he had two young children to raise. He’s not looking for romance or a new partner. He doesn’t need one anyway… he has his life-long buddy Max to help him through every struggle.
When Parker loses his job and can’t afford his daughter’s pricey insulin, Max suggests fake marriage for insurance coverage. Since he’s already a second parent to Parker’s cute kids, it should be easy… until the marriage becomes a little too real.
Welcome to Hidden Creek, Texas, where the heart knows what it wants, and where true love lives happily ever after. Every Men of Hidden Creek novel can be read on its own, but keep an eye out for familiar faces around town! This book contains dad jokes, a pair of kids that will steal your heart, and more heat than a Texas summer.
Max Jackson’s life is pretty close to perfect—except that he’s secretly in love with his straight best friend and roommate. He’s got his dream job and a family he secretly pretends are his own. But they aren’t… no matter how much he might wish it were true.
After the tragic death of his wife, Parker Wilson didn’t have time to wallow in grief—not when he had two young children to raise. He’s not looking for romance or a new partner. He doesn’t need one anyway… he has his life-long buddy Max to help him through every struggle.
When Parker loses his job and can’t afford his daughter’s pricey insulin, Max suggests fake marriage for insurance coverage. Since he’s already a second parent to Parker’s cute kids, it should be easy… until the marriage becomes a little too real.
Welcome to Hidden Creek, Texas, where the heart knows what it wants, and where true love lives happily ever after. Every Men of Hidden Creek novel can be read on its own, but keep an eye out for familiar faces around town! This book contains dad jokes, a pair of kids that will steal your heart, and more heat than a Texas summer.
269 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2019
139 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Susan Hawke
35 books367 followersSusan Hawke is more widely known for her mpreg writings as Susi Hawke; this new name is a departure from that. Whether written by Susan or Susi, the books are filled with that all-important love, laughter, and family; the only difference is that this name has no male pregnancy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
August 30, 2019
Max and Parker play on a turbulence of emotion. Parker's wife dies in a house fire and he's left feeling angry because she was safe. She'd gotten out only to run back inside for the cat. He has to move in with Max. He's left being a single father to his two kids; only he's not a single father: He has his best friend Max. Max has been playing a parenting role since Parker lost his wife. Max has a secret though he's been harboring feelings for his "straight" best friend since they were college roommates. When Parker's daughter's health takes a turn for the worse after he loses his job. Max makes him an offer he can't refuse, especially when his insurance stops paying for the medicine his daughter needs. Max offers to marry Parker just so he add him and the kids to his insurance. Having decided he had no other choice Parker accepts. But once the commitment is formed, Parker starts noticing Max as more than just his BFF. Things heat up and a fake marriage turns into a real marriage. I enjoyed it and highly recommend it.
October 16, 2020
I didn't make it past 60% this time...
So I am trying to wrap my mind around this story. Turns out it's not easy to even comprehend what is happening here...
First we get a totally dramatic death scene that I couldn't even believe was put on page like that. I am almost traumatized just by reading it.... and then Parker blames Mr. Whiskers the cat?! Who ALSO died?!
I.... okay, 3 years later (as if whatever we just read is now just a prologue supposed to EASE us into the story):
Straight widower Parker and his two kids live with Parker's gay best friend Max, who shares his home and apparently his income with them. Max is secretly in love with Parker - but does nothing about it.
Parker is seemingly asexual for all of these years, but has no problem living under his best friend's roof, letting him play 'dad no. 2' for his kids.
Anyway, what starts out as a non-romantic shared flat with kids, becomes a pretty extensive travesty when Parker and Max decide to MARRY in order to commit insurance fraud (if you can call it insurance fraud. I mean, except for the missing sex, these guys have been a couple all these years anyway).
Of course, family and friends (who think they're both in love now) hear about their marriage and throw them a huge celebration.
And through all of this, there is this huge question mark asking WTF is happening here???
Rest assured, Parker (as countless mm characters before him) suddenly finds 'after-shower water drops' clinging to Max's muscular chest incredibly interesting, and soon says farewell to heterosexuality for good.
Add to that a couple of comments of 'But I don't find other men interesting, maybe I'm just MAXISEXUAL?' and you're experiencing one of the weirdest gay for you stories I have ever read.
As if the poor kids haven't suffered enough...
Of course, then the sex begins...
LOL, this story was clearly amusing in many parts and I did find myself entertained, but I can't say I want to follow them through the rest of their story.
I am also a bit disappointed because I found the first book in that series absolutely spectacular and the second book not only had a different tone, but also a completely different setting.
All in all, my personal rating would be somewhere around 3 stars!
So I am trying to wrap my mind around this story. Turns out it's not easy to even comprehend what is happening here...
First we get a totally dramatic death scene that I couldn't even believe was put on page like that. I am almost traumatized just by reading it.... and then Parker blames Mr. Whiskers the cat?! Who ALSO died?!
I.... okay, 3 years later (as if whatever we just read is now just a prologue supposed to EASE us into the story):
Straight widower Parker and his two kids live with Parker's gay best friend Max, who shares his home and apparently his income with them. Max is secretly in love with Parker - but does nothing about it.
Parker is seemingly asexual for all of these years, but has no problem living under his best friend's roof, letting him play 'dad no. 2' for his kids.
Anyway, what starts out as a non-romantic shared flat with kids, becomes a pretty extensive travesty when Parker and Max decide to MARRY in order to commit insurance fraud (if you can call it insurance fraud. I mean, except for the missing sex, these guys have been a couple all these years anyway).
Of course, family and friends (who think they're both in love now) hear about their marriage and throw them a huge celebration.
And through all of this, there is this huge question mark asking WTF is happening here???
Rest assured, Parker (as countless mm characters before him) suddenly finds 'after-shower water drops' clinging to Max's muscular chest incredibly interesting, and soon says farewell to heterosexuality for good.
Add to that a couple of comments of 'But I don't find other men interesting, maybe I'm just MAXISEXUAL?' and you're experiencing one of the weirdest gay for you stories I have ever read.
As if the poor kids haven't suffered enough...
Of course, then the sex begins...
LOL, this story was clearly amusing in many parts and I did find myself entertained, but I can't say I want to follow them through the rest of their story.
I am also a bit disappointed because I found the first book in that series absolutely spectacular and the second book not only had a different tone, but also a completely different setting.
All in all, my personal rating would be somewhere around 3 stars!
September 7, 2019
We see Max and Parker go from best friends in life to being romantic partners. A well told story of friends, circumstances, and an unrequited love that turns into a true loving relationship.
I loved gorgeous Max, and his caring family, and his time spent with the kids is marvelous. Parker lost his wife in a home fire, and is raising his two kids, Cindy and Teddy, with lots of help from Max. Max opens his heart and home to them all. Cindy is Diabetic and her medicine costs a fortune, so the guys marry, then Max can get her care taken care of with his awsome insurance. But, it's so much more....
We watch the progression, the feelings that appear, and a yearning Parker's personal revelations of desiring Max. The conversations feel real, heartfelt, passionate and a delight. The kids are wonderful, and so is Max's sister, DJ. Friends to lovers, GFY. Demi-sexual.
This is terrific story of a fulfilling life formed and cherished.
ENJOY !
======
I loved gorgeous Max, and his caring family, and his time spent with the kids is marvelous. Parker lost his wife in a home fire, and is raising his two kids, Cindy and Teddy, with lots of help from Max. Max opens his heart and home to them all. Cindy is Diabetic and her medicine costs a fortune, so the guys marry, then Max can get her care taken care of with his awsome insurance. But, it's so much more....
We watch the progression, the feelings that appear, and a yearning Parker's personal revelations of desiring Max. The conversations feel real, heartfelt, passionate and a delight. The kids are wonderful, and so is Max's sister, DJ. Friends to lovers, GFY. Demi-sexual.
This is terrific story of a fulfilling life formed and cherished.
ENJOY !
======
August 28, 2019
This one starts out incredibly sad, but have faith in Susan Hawke to produce a very happy ending in Realize, the second episode of Season 4, Men of Hidden Creek.
Lifelong friends, Max has been carrying a torch for his bestie Parker for as long as he can remember. Always there for Max, Parker truly steps up after tragedy strikes. His understanding and endless support brings the men closer, and a health scare solidifies their connection.
As the men become comfortable with their new level of intimacy, Parker starts to recognize his feelings are changing. Subtle differences, like noticing Max’s incredible physique and a growing appreciation for his affection for his children, have Parker wondering if he might have deeper feelings for his friend.
It’s wonderful how patient Max is, and his willingness to take it slow with Parker is very romantic. Coming to realize he is demisexual is a wake-up call for Parker which really rocks his world. Moving on from his tragedy is difficult on many levels, and Max’s support is invaluable.
Nick J. Russo brings this one to life! There’s a wide range of characters - between the children, Max’s sister DJ, and the in-laws Mr. Russo really shows his range. He brings out the playfulness and lighthearted exchanges and treats the premise with the reverence it deserves. Seriously, that opening scene is a heartbreaker. I really enjoyed his performance in Realize.
an audiobook copy of Realize (Men of Hidden Creek - Season 4, #2) was provided for the purpose of my review
Lifelong friends, Max has been carrying a torch for his bestie Parker for as long as he can remember. Always there for Max, Parker truly steps up after tragedy strikes. His understanding and endless support brings the men closer, and a health scare solidifies their connection.
As the men become comfortable with their new level of intimacy, Parker starts to recognize his feelings are changing. Subtle differences, like noticing Max’s incredible physique and a growing appreciation for his affection for his children, have Parker wondering if he might have deeper feelings for his friend.
It’s wonderful how patient Max is, and his willingness to take it slow with Parker is very romantic. Coming to realize he is demisexual is a wake-up call for Parker which really rocks his world. Moving on from his tragedy is difficult on many levels, and Max’s support is invaluable.
Nick J. Russo brings this one to life! There’s a wide range of characters - between the children, Max’s sister DJ, and the in-laws Mr. Russo really shows his range. He brings out the playfulness and lighthearted exchanges and treats the premise with the reverence it deserves. Seriously, that opening scene is a heartbreaker. I really enjoyed his performance in Realize.
an audiobook copy of Realize (Men of Hidden Creek - Season 4, #2) was provided for the purpose of my review
September 4, 2019
DNF 64%. I call it quits. It was too cringy for me. This was a poorly executed friends to lovers and had low, barely existing UST levels. While I found the family dynamic adorable I hated the relationship between Max and Parker. First off Max very easily resigned himself to a no sex life style despite being in love with his straight friend for years. I got no vibes of sexual frustration from him at all. And after they fake married Parker rather magically became sexually attracted to Max. Like was the wedding ring laced with pheromones and blessed by the butt sex god on top of a mountain or something? It just came out of nowhere. I actually disliked it when the butt sex began happening because the build up was so poor. I'd rather read about the children and if Cindy wins kid's baking champion.
August 27, 2019
Wow. What a beginning.. It drew me right into the story.
Parkers best friend Max comes through with help and support when Parker and his kids suffer a terrible loss.
Circumstances cause them into a fake marriage (one of my favorite tropes).
A sweet, comfort, slow burn, best friends to lovers story about family and friends and sticking together
Parkers best friend Max comes through with help and support when Parker and his kids suffer a terrible loss.
Circumstances cause them into a fake marriage (one of my favorite tropes).
A sweet, comfort, slow burn, best friends to lovers story about family and friends and sticking together
August 29, 2019
A sweet love story (an audio review)
This book hits a bunch of my favorite tropes: friends to lover, marriage of convenience, and gay for you. Well, maybe not quite gay for you but damn close. This book also begins with tragedy. Parker’s wife is dies tragically and he’s left with his two young children, Cindy and Teddy. He turns to his best friend Max for a safe place to land. A safe place to raise his kids. A safe place to wall himself away from pain. And Max is up for the challenge. He’s happy to take in Parker and the kids. He’s always been Uncle Max (as well as godfather), but now he takes on the role of co-parent and he couldn’t be happier.
See, Max is in love with Parker. Has been for as long as he can remember. He sat back and watched his best friend marry a wonderful woman. Watched them build a life together while raising two young children. Yearned from afar and went about his life, all the while knowing Parker was just out of reach – as a romantic partner, anyway.
Things change about two years after Parker’s wife’s death. His daughter Cindy has been diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes and Parker is doing okay until he loses his job. This is where I, as a Canadian, get downright pissed. Parker loses his health insurance and has to go on a different plan that costs a fortune and doesn’t even cover the medicine Cindy needs. We’re not perfect up here with Universal Healthcare, but at least the loss of a job isn’t a potential death sentence. I’ve heard the stories – people rationing their insulin because they can’t afford it. People setting up Go Fund Me pages so they can get basic lifesaving drugs. People dying tragically when all else fails. Makes my heart hurt and hits a nerve with me.
But I digress.
Parker has an option. Max offers to marry him. Cindy will immediately be covered. All problems solved, right? Max knows this means giving up the few hookups he’s managed over the years and taking on celibacy but he’ll do it. For Parker and the kids? He’ll do anything.
After the wedding, Max’s well-meaning family set him up with several ‘dates’ with Parker and soon their bond deepens. Eventually Parker sees Max differently. Eventually their relationship shifts. There are a few sweet moments along the way, to be sure. As Max settles into the more permanent role as co-parent, he helps each child prepare for fun events at the local fair. There were some precious scenes, to be sure.
I must say I’d love to meet Greta and Bolt. Just sayin’.
I enjoyed this book tremendously. It was sweet. I’ve said that, right? Just a nice story with very little drama after the first scene. I got all kind of good feelings and the ‘dark’ moment wasn’t that dark and wasn’t even internal to the couple.
Nick J. Russo narrated the book and I was so pleased. He’s fun to listen to and always does a good job. He helped me love this book. And I did, love it that is. So, needless to say, I can highly recommend the book.
This book hits a bunch of my favorite tropes: friends to lover, marriage of convenience, and gay for you. Well, maybe not quite gay for you but damn close. This book also begins with tragedy. Parker’s wife is dies tragically and he’s left with his two young children, Cindy and Teddy. He turns to his best friend Max for a safe place to land. A safe place to raise his kids. A safe place to wall himself away from pain. And Max is up for the challenge. He’s happy to take in Parker and the kids. He’s always been Uncle Max (as well as godfather), but now he takes on the role of co-parent and he couldn’t be happier.
See, Max is in love with Parker. Has been for as long as he can remember. He sat back and watched his best friend marry a wonderful woman. Watched them build a life together while raising two young children. Yearned from afar and went about his life, all the while knowing Parker was just out of reach – as a romantic partner, anyway.
Things change about two years after Parker’s wife’s death. His daughter Cindy has been diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes and Parker is doing okay until he loses his job. This is where I, as a Canadian, get downright pissed. Parker loses his health insurance and has to go on a different plan that costs a fortune and doesn’t even cover the medicine Cindy needs. We’re not perfect up here with Universal Healthcare, but at least the loss of a job isn’t a potential death sentence. I’ve heard the stories – people rationing their insulin because they can’t afford it. People setting up Go Fund Me pages so they can get basic lifesaving drugs. People dying tragically when all else fails. Makes my heart hurt and hits a nerve with me.
But I digress.
Parker has an option. Max offers to marry him. Cindy will immediately be covered. All problems solved, right? Max knows this means giving up the few hookups he’s managed over the years and taking on celibacy but he’ll do it. For Parker and the kids? He’ll do anything.
After the wedding, Max’s well-meaning family set him up with several ‘dates’ with Parker and soon their bond deepens. Eventually Parker sees Max differently. Eventually their relationship shifts. There are a few sweet moments along the way, to be sure. As Max settles into the more permanent role as co-parent, he helps each child prepare for fun events at the local fair. There were some precious scenes, to be sure.
I must say I’d love to meet Greta and Bolt. Just sayin’.
I enjoyed this book tremendously. It was sweet. I’ve said that, right? Just a nice story with very little drama after the first scene. I got all kind of good feelings and the ‘dark’ moment wasn’t that dark and wasn’t even internal to the couple.
Nick J. Russo narrated the book and I was so pleased. He’s fun to listen to and always does a good job. He helped me love this book. And I did, love it that is. So, needless to say, I can highly recommend the book.
August 25, 2019
Sometimes what we are looking for or not looking for is just right in front of us!
Best friends. One experienced a tragic loss and left to care for his two wonderful children. A best friend who has been in love with him for far too long. Can this one tragedy forge a relationship that Max has been dreaming of with his best friend?
Max is the epitome of a best friend, way beyond a best friend he is. When tragedy struck his best friend’s life, there was no doubt that he’ll be there for whatever his best friend and his children need. This is aside from the fact that Max just adore Parker’s two children.
Parker is fumbling, he has never gotten over the fact that his wife went into a burning building to save her cat and leaving him alone to care for their children. Not until his best friend talked, explained and made him realized why that is.
Up until the wedding, the attraction has been one-sided. But now feelings are starting to surface. Parker is slowly realizing facts and how he has overlooked a few things over the years.
Ms Susan Hawke, you have managed to really impart a sweet, gay-for-you, best friends to lovers story. I love how sweet, caring and thoughtful Max is, how out-of-his-depth Parker is but still he goes with it, knowing that Max will never lead him astray. I love the fact that despite the changing feelings Parker is experiencing, his trust in his best friend will always bring him calm and acceptance. I love Cindy and Teddy and how naturally they have accepted Max as a stepdad and they are so so sweet. And Max’s family, I wish all families can be like that, accepting and supporting! Thank you for a wonderful, swoony and lovable story! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Best friends. One experienced a tragic loss and left to care for his two wonderful children. A best friend who has been in love with him for far too long. Can this one tragedy forge a relationship that Max has been dreaming of with his best friend?
Max is the epitome of a best friend, way beyond a best friend he is. When tragedy struck his best friend’s life, there was no doubt that he’ll be there for whatever his best friend and his children need. This is aside from the fact that Max just adore Parker’s two children.
Parker is fumbling, he has never gotten over the fact that his wife went into a burning building to save her cat and leaving him alone to care for their children. Not until his best friend talked, explained and made him realized why that is.
Up until the wedding, the attraction has been one-sided. But now feelings are starting to surface. Parker is slowly realizing facts and how he has overlooked a few things over the years.
Ms Susan Hawke, you have managed to really impart a sweet, gay-for-you, best friends to lovers story. I love how sweet, caring and thoughtful Max is, how out-of-his-depth Parker is but still he goes with it, knowing that Max will never lead him astray. I love the fact that despite the changing feelings Parker is experiencing, his trust in his best friend will always bring him calm and acceptance. I love Cindy and Teddy and how naturally they have accepted Max as a stepdad and they are so so sweet. And Max’s family, I wish all families can be like that, accepting and supporting! Thank you for a wonderful, swoony and lovable story! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 21, 2021
Parker and Max have been best friends since they were about 10. They are super close, so when Parker's wife dies in a fire, Max jumps right in the support and help Parker and his 2 adorable kids. The book started super sad, but it really set us up to see how strong the relationship was between Max and Parker as best friends. Over the next 3-4 years, they live together as friends. A medical situation requiring medications not covered by his insurance causes Max and Parker to decide to get married for the insurance. They remain friends while married for a while until Parker starts to all of a sudden see Max in a different light. Their transition from married besties to partners in every way was very slow, but once it happened, there was no hesitation or doubt on the part of either guy. I loved their relationship with each other and with their kids. It was clear from page one how much they both adored each other and the kids, and they were the perfect family. Despite the sadness at the beginning, it was a genuinely feel-good book. I really loved it. I also listened to this on audiobook, and it was so well done. I loved the character's voices.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
August 28, 2019
I was totally immersed
I’m going to give you my review in reactions, because honestly this book took me through big ups and downs and I was so invested I totally lived it with the characters! Be aware these reactions are not spread consistently through the book.
- Ohmygods, Susan Hawke, you said WIDOWER in the blurb but I didn’t think we were going to have a big teary moment 😭
- awww it’s good to have buddies
- hmm jumps in time between chapters? Not my favourite but I see we need to move forward....
- Ohmygods these kids are adorable
- hey Kyle (nurse at the hospital, see Ache by Alison Hendricks, season 2)
- oooooh fake marriage! My favourite.
- oh Parker, you are not very observant are you?
- I wonder if Mamma Shirley would adopt me?
- dude, Teddy is THE BOMB. Go Teddy!!
- awwww panic attacks for your man.
- FINALLY. 👏🏻🥳
- doggy!!!
- wow, Cindy is AWESOME. Go Cindy!
- awwww family time
- dammit I cried again 😢
- epilogues are ok if they’re like this
I’m going to give you my review in reactions, because honestly this book took me through big ups and downs and I was so invested I totally lived it with the characters! Be aware these reactions are not spread consistently through the book.
- Ohmygods, Susan Hawke, you said WIDOWER in the blurb but I didn’t think we were going to have a big teary moment 😭
- awww it’s good to have buddies
- hmm jumps in time between chapters? Not my favourite but I see we need to move forward....
- Ohmygods these kids are adorable
- hey Kyle (nurse at the hospital, see Ache by Alison Hendricks, season 2)
- oooooh fake marriage! My favourite.
- oh Parker, you are not very observant are you?
- I wonder if Mamma Shirley would adopt me?
- dude, Teddy is THE BOMB. Go Teddy!!
- awwww panic attacks for your man.
- FINALLY. 👏🏻🥳
- doggy!!!
- wow, Cindy is AWESOME. Go Cindy!
- awwww family time
- dammit I cried again 😢
- epilogues are ok if they’re like this
August 27, 2019
Max and Parker are best friends. When tragedy strikes, Parker and his kids move into Max’s house.
This story takes place 3 years later, when Parker starts seeing his gay best friend as something more and with Max’s help, makes some realizations about his sexuality. One of those realizations is that Max is the most important person in his life.
I really enjoyed this. I love that it was not rushed and that Max never pressured Parker into doing anything he wasn’t ready for or uncomfortable with.
Overall, it was a nice story of two men building a life together with their kids.
* ARC provided by LedCourt Services
This story takes place 3 years later, when Parker starts seeing his gay best friend as something more and with Max’s help, makes some realizations about his sexuality. One of those realizations is that Max is the most important person in his life.
I really enjoyed this. I love that it was not rushed and that Max never pressured Parker into doing anything he wasn’t ready for or uncomfortable with.
Overall, it was a nice story of two men building a life together with their kids.
* ARC provided by LedCourt Services
August 23, 2019
* AUDIOBOOK REVIEW *
Heart melting!
I love single parent, best friends to lovers and some hot chemistry between the characters. This has it all!!!
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Good dialogues
Well described characters that’s developed in to realistic personalities
Steady building of the storyline with a HEA
Narrator:
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings
4 stars overall
Heart melting!
I love single parent, best friends to lovers and some hot chemistry between the characters. This has it all!!!
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Good dialogues
Well described characters that’s developed in to realistic personalities
Steady building of the storyline with a HEA
Narrator:
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings
4 stars overall
August 24, 2019
cozy.. sweet.. cute.. interesting and kept me curious.. it wasnt an all out steamy and sexy story like susan normally writes.. this is more of a sweet and fluffy which was totally adorable and i enjoyed it. soo cute
August 28, 2019
Amazing
I loved every single moment off this book. The emotions were all over the place. I'm a good way, of course. I was crying one minute and laughing or smiling the next. Definitely highly recommended.
I loved every single moment off this book. The emotions were all over the place. I'm a good way, of course. I was crying one minute and laughing or smiling the next. Definitely highly recommended.
April 14, 2021
So, I have a few big issues with this story which made it a solid 4 stars instead of 4.5.
But first, I’ll talk about what I liked:
The children were present and involved in the story. They were as cute as they were annoying meaning these kids were very realistic. Kids are annoying at times but super cute and lovable. 10/10
I loved the supportive family and how aware everyone was about how in love Parker and Max were although they weren’t a couple. It let us understand how truly in sync Parker and Max were. They really were a perfect couple, very in tune but very oblivious.
I loved all the family time and the easy parenting between the two but that’s to be expected since it’s been three years since they started living together. And the kids already saw Max and his family as their own.
What I didn’t like:
The three year jump. I wanted to progress through the story with Max and Parker. See how they lived for those three years (could have been 1 chapter) and then move onto the present time. It would have given us insight into how Parker might have felt towards Max. And how Max was dealing with his unrequited love now that they lived together.
Without this, I found Max and Parker to be a bit bland. Yes, they had moments of discussing Deirdre’s death and dealing with loss but because the start was shaky it felt off.
It felt like a written sitcom. The pairing was perfect but had very little emotions other than Parker’s anger and sadness over losing his wife. And Max was two dimensional at times. A great and loving #1 dad and husband but almost wishy washy.
And I really liked Max.
But he didn’t have any moments where he really laid out his unrequited love for Parker. No monologue about how he felt about watching Parker get married to Deidre. How heartbreaking that might have been. How he had expected Parker to maybe one day love him as Max did him. Nothing like that happened though.
The saving grace was that he did take their wedding day seriously, even though he knew they were getting married for Cindy’s insulin. He also had moments of emotional disclosure with himself here and there.
I think what I was missing was the internal monologues. The book missed emotional development on Max’s parts and had stunted development on Parker’s part. After a point in the story, it was a lot of things happening around and to the characters and not enough telling from the point of view of the characters.
Usually, I complain about telling a lot but in this case, it was the opposite. I wish we had a more individualize POV instead of a sort of third person/1st person POV that left me disconnected.
Still very cute and would recommend but will not re-read.
But first, I’ll talk about what I liked:
The children were present and involved in the story. They were as cute as they were annoying meaning these kids were very realistic. Kids are annoying at times but super cute and lovable. 10/10
I loved the supportive family and how aware everyone was about how in love Parker and Max were although they weren’t a couple. It let us understand how truly in sync Parker and Max were. They really were a perfect couple, very in tune but very oblivious.
I loved all the family time and the easy parenting between the two but that’s to be expected since it’s been three years since they started living together. And the kids already saw Max and his family as their own.
What I didn’t like:
The three year jump. I wanted to progress through the story with Max and Parker. See how they lived for those three years (could have been 1 chapter) and then move onto the present time. It would have given us insight into how Parker might have felt towards Max. And how Max was dealing with his unrequited love now that they lived together.
Without this, I found Max and Parker to be a bit bland. Yes, they had moments of discussing Deirdre’s death and dealing with loss but because the start was shaky it felt off.
It felt like a written sitcom. The pairing was perfect but had very little emotions other than Parker’s anger and sadness over losing his wife. And Max was two dimensional at times. A great and loving #1 dad and husband but almost wishy washy.
And I really liked Max.
But he didn’t have any moments where he really laid out his unrequited love for Parker. No monologue about how he felt about watching Parker get married to Deidre. How heartbreaking that might have been. How he had expected Parker to maybe one day love him as Max did him. Nothing like that happened though.
The saving grace was that he did take their wedding day seriously, even though he knew they were getting married for Cindy’s insulin. He also had moments of emotional disclosure with himself here and there.
I think what I was missing was the internal monologues. The book missed emotional development on Max’s parts and had stunted development on Parker’s part. After a point in the story, it was a lot of things happening around and to the characters and not enough telling from the point of view of the characters.
Usually, I complain about telling a lot but in this case, it was the opposite. I wish we had a more individualize POV instead of a sort of third person/1st person POV that left me disconnected.
Still very cute and would recommend but will not re-read.
May 15, 2020
Beautiful.
Beautifully written story of love and loss. Of new beginnings. Parker had always thought he was straight, but after his wife dies and he moves his family into his best friend, Max's house, he begins to realize he has feelings for Max. An awesome journey of healing, sexual awakening and love.
Beautifully written story of love and loss. Of new beginnings. Parker had always thought he was straight, but after his wife dies and he moves his family into his best friend, Max's house, he begins to realize he has feelings for Max. An awesome journey of healing, sexual awakening and love.
June 7, 2020
A sweet, slow-burn romance, between two best friends who are raising a family together. I loved how both characters came together in this relationship, by creating a deeper understanding of each other and their new family. Also, I adored that it was not just about the romance but the kids too, there was so much cute interaction with the kids it definitely balanced the entire story.
November 16, 2020
Cowboys & Princesses
I want to visit Hidden Creek. Of course I may never leave but it's worth the risk. Max, Parker, Cindy and Teddy make the most adorable family. I loved their silliness, their honesty and how fully they love. A feels good, heartwarming romance that will have you craving fair food and family moments.
I want to visit Hidden Creek. Of course I may never leave but it's worth the risk. Max, Parker, Cindy and Teddy make the most adorable family. I loved their silliness, their honesty and how fully they love. A feels good, heartwarming romance that will have you craving fair food and family moments.
May 17, 2021
there was way too many unnecessary dialogues happening between the kids and the adults. why is so much time spent on the fair prep, but we jump from weeks to months in other aspects? it really would've made more sense if the story started after parker moved in w max. as it is it starts almost at a point where a lot of the relationship has already happened.
August 10, 2020
Sweet Read!
This was a sweet read about love, friendship, and self-discovery. Max is a steady rock for his best friend Parker and I loved watching Parker discovering himself and falling in love with his best friend. The cute kids and pets were and added bonus.
This was a sweet read about love, friendship, and self-discovery. Max is a steady rock for his best friend Parker and I loved watching Parker discovering himself and falling in love with his best friend. The cute kids and pets were and added bonus.
April 19, 2020
I loved to read about Max and Parker. Low angst and two cute kids rounded up this book in the Men of Hidden Creek series.
May 18, 2020
Enjoyable enough. The somewhat incredulous set up is actually fairly well handled, but the backstory with Parker's wife sort of chafed me.
December 17, 2020
first chapter of this book is a bit too much for me. Possible trigger for anyone with fire trauma. I would have been happy for all of that chapter to have been referred to instead of a whole chapter. Also, can read it by skipping it altogether.
Demi rep which was great.
Demi rep which was great.
March 18, 2021
4 Sugary Sweet Stars!
October 12, 2021
Lembrete para mim mesma: esse é o livro que você estava pensando lembrar o nome
August 23, 2019
Oh this book made me so happy happy. Don't get me wrong, there are some very sad moments. The whole first chapter knocks you for a loop. But one of the main characters ends up realizing he's demisexual and I relate to that. I'm I guess Demi/ace. For me it's all about the intimacy, the bonds, and I was so happy to see that in this book. Sure the sex is a good thing. But it's what's built in everyday life. Even if there's fighting or disagreements, the underlying foundation and bond helps to work past that. And that's what we had in this book. And I loved every page.
Parker loses almost everything the night of the big fire. He and his wife had gotten everyone out safely but she had to go back in for the cat. Neither made it back out. And if it wasn't for his best friend, Max, he wouldn't have been able to go on and be a parent for his two kids. He and Max had been best friends since they were little and they always had each other's backs. Max didn't hesitate to bring them home and Max's family was Parker's family as well. They took him in as one of their own and his babies too. But his wife's death wasn't the only problem. His daughter was now diabetic and he lost his job. How was he supposed to take care of his babies now? He was so tired of feeling like he was relying on Max for everything. When his daughter had to go to the hospital for high sugar levels, the nurse recommended they get married. Everyone thought they were together anyway. And Max's insurance would cover everything his daughter needed. But could Parker do it? The gender wasn't a question. He didn't care about that or about what others thought. But could he be in a FAKE marriage to Max? Could he even get married again? He decides yes, but as their relationship grows, Max brings up a point about Parker that made Parker realize a lot about himself. And that may have changed everything.
Oh my gah, I love all these guys. Max and Parker are just *sigh*. Yeah, just perfect. Max is a goofball. Parker thinks too much and they balance each other out. The kids are pistols and I think my favorite side character is Max's sister DJ. Well, it's a tossup between her and his mom. Oh mam, those two. They pull no punches and razz those two like you would not believe and it's the funniest damn thing. This is seriously one of the best friends-to-lovers stories I've read in awhile. I hung on every page waiting to see what would happen. And Max is full of the dad jokes, let me tell you.
There are moments of tears. As I said, the first chapter is a killer. There are moments later on, not so bad, but still and definitely moments of happy tears. Especially the end. It's another great installment in this series and I'm happy I've gotten to read it.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Parker loses almost everything the night of the big fire. He and his wife had gotten everyone out safely but she had to go back in for the cat. Neither made it back out. And if it wasn't for his best friend, Max, he wouldn't have been able to go on and be a parent for his two kids. He and Max had been best friends since they were little and they always had each other's backs. Max didn't hesitate to bring them home and Max's family was Parker's family as well. They took him in as one of their own and his babies too. But his wife's death wasn't the only problem. His daughter was now diabetic and he lost his job. How was he supposed to take care of his babies now? He was so tired of feeling like he was relying on Max for everything. When his daughter had to go to the hospital for high sugar levels, the nurse recommended they get married. Everyone thought they were together anyway. And Max's insurance would cover everything his daughter needed. But could Parker do it? The gender wasn't a question. He didn't care about that or about what others thought. But could he be in a FAKE marriage to Max? Could he even get married again? He decides yes, but as their relationship grows, Max brings up a point about Parker that made Parker realize a lot about himself. And that may have changed everything.
Oh my gah, I love all these guys. Max and Parker are just *sigh*. Yeah, just perfect. Max is a goofball. Parker thinks too much and they balance each other out. The kids are pistols and I think my favorite side character is Max's sister DJ. Well, it's a tossup between her and his mom. Oh mam, those two. They pull no punches and razz those two like you would not believe and it's the funniest damn thing. This is seriously one of the best friends-to-lovers stories I've read in awhile. I hung on every page waiting to see what would happen. And Max is full of the dad jokes, let me tell you.
There are moments of tears. As I said, the first chapter is a killer. There are moments later on, not so bad, but still and definitely moments of happy tears. Especially the end. It's another great installment in this series and I'm happy I've gotten to read it.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
August 28, 2019
Life can certainly be unpredictable, but for Parker it tore his world apart. If not for his children and best friend, he might not have had the strength to survive it. It didn't take long for me to admire both men and root for something wonderful between them. Thankfully, they didn't disappoint with the depth and rightness of their changing relationship.
I didn't get a great sense of Max right at the start, other than his heart and his willingness to support his best friend, but when we first get into his head we see right away that he's never second-guessed his role in the lives of those that matter most to him. Parker needed him, Cindy and Tommy needed him, so he stepped in and took the burden happily. I admired that about him quite a lot.
And then there's Parker. He struck me as both caring and strong right in the beginning despite having the rug pulled out from under him. But when we see him again, he felt so very young and a little on the immature side. Not the immaturity that comes from irresponsibility or selfishness, but from youth and inexperience. He didn't regain his maturity and solidness until much later as his relationship with Max became something more. Maybe it was because all the pieces were slotting together as they should be, or maybe it was just because his reaction to those changes was so smooth.
Their relationship was very slow-burn, but the explanation for that is rooted in sexual identity and the focus being on building a family rather than a sexual connection. Even with the "educational" aspect of the sexuality discussion, it all felt like a pretty natural transition. With no angst at all, I was wondering how the story and the couple were both going to progress, what kind of conflict would be used to give us some sort of tension or literary climax. To be honest, the whole thing felt tame and mild, and that wasn't necessarily bad, it was just a longer and fluffier story than I was expecting.
Overall it was a nice change of pace and I learned to love all the sweetness, the tender way their family found stability, security, and happiness in the aftermath of so much grief. Overcoming those difficulties was a bit overly simplistic though, yet it fit the lighter feel of the story. Max gained everything he could ever want and Parker gained everything he could ever need. Once again we see that Hidden Creek is the town where love is love and love is all.
I didn't get a great sense of Max right at the start, other than his heart and his willingness to support his best friend, but when we first get into his head we see right away that he's never second-guessed his role in the lives of those that matter most to him. Parker needed him, Cindy and Tommy needed him, so he stepped in and took the burden happily. I admired that about him quite a lot.
And then there's Parker. He struck me as both caring and strong right in the beginning despite having the rug pulled out from under him. But when we see him again, he felt so very young and a little on the immature side. Not the immaturity that comes from irresponsibility or selfishness, but from youth and inexperience. He didn't regain his maturity and solidness until much later as his relationship with Max became something more. Maybe it was because all the pieces were slotting together as they should be, or maybe it was just because his reaction to those changes was so smooth.
Their relationship was very slow-burn, but the explanation for that is rooted in sexual identity and the focus being on building a family rather than a sexual connection. Even with the "educational" aspect of the sexuality discussion, it all felt like a pretty natural transition. With no angst at all, I was wondering how the story and the couple were both going to progress, what kind of conflict would be used to give us some sort of tension or literary climax. To be honest, the whole thing felt tame and mild, and that wasn't necessarily bad, it was just a longer and fluffier story than I was expecting.
Overall it was a nice change of pace and I learned to love all the sweetness, the tender way their family found stability, security, and happiness in the aftermath of so much grief. Overcoming those difficulties was a bit overly simplistic though, yet it fit the lighter feel of the story. Max gained everything he could ever want and Parker gained everything he could ever need. Once again we see that Hidden Creek is the town where love is love and love is all.
January 24, 2020
Such a disappointment. This book was definitely the worst of the fourth season, and one of the most difficult to get through of the entire series. By the end of the second chapter, it was already in my bottom two of the whole of the Hidden Creek series. I ended up having to force myself to finish it, and the only way I got through it was by skimming like a possessed fiend. The characters are unoriginal and dull, the plotline is predictable and slow, and everything about the story felt so grossly simplistic that it was almost laughable. It felt at times that I was reading a story written by a teenager and handed into a high school-level creative writing class. There was nothing special or standoutish to me at all about the writing, the premise, the characters, the dialogue, or the ending.
I don't get how Parker has known Max most of his life and just suddenly one day realizes OUT OF NOWHERE that he's attracted to him. There was absolutely NO conflict or any sort of build-up to a resolution (that ended up never existing anyway) within the story, which made it feel flat, pointless, and dragged out. Even the so-called "revelation" was handled in the most perfunctory way possible. The entire thing was a true test in patience to sit through. The flowery, unrealistic dialogue was over-the-top and ridiculous, making me openly cringe throughout it. It was so damn cheesy it almost felt as if I would need an entire box of lactose pills just to get through it, and I am not lactose intolerant. And the constant use of pet names (especially the rhyming ones) was so frequent and annoying that I couldn't read this story for more than a couple of chapters at a time because it was just too. Damn. Much. The characters and narrative felt stiff and preachy at times, and I can't stand when an author goes out of their way to try to desperately force the "goodness" (or moral superiority) of the characters into the faces of every reader. The entire thing seemed to just be constantly pleading for some sort of sympathy or praise, but ended up only enforcing the opposite effect on me.
This story was clearly intended to be sweet and fluffy but just ended up being too chewy to swallow. The only way I could ever recommend this book to anyone is if I put the word "not" in front of that recommendation. And then underlined that word. And then circled it. And then traced over it in neon pink permanent marker.
My only recommendation is that you save yourself the time with this one.
I don't get how Parker has known Max most of his life and just suddenly one day realizes OUT OF NOWHERE that he's attracted to him. There was absolutely NO conflict or any sort of build-up to a resolution (that ended up never existing anyway) within the story, which made it feel flat, pointless, and dragged out. Even the so-called "revelation" was handled in the most perfunctory way possible. The entire thing was a true test in patience to sit through. The flowery, unrealistic dialogue was over-the-top and ridiculous, making me openly cringe throughout it. It was so damn cheesy it almost felt as if I would need an entire box of lactose pills just to get through it, and I am not lactose intolerant. And the constant use of pet names (especially the rhyming ones) was so frequent and annoying that I couldn't read this story for more than a couple of chapters at a time because it was just too. Damn. Much. The characters and narrative felt stiff and preachy at times, and I can't stand when an author goes out of their way to try to desperately force the "goodness" (or moral superiority) of the characters into the faces of every reader. The entire thing seemed to just be constantly pleading for some sort of sympathy or praise, but ended up only enforcing the opposite effect on me.
This story was clearly intended to be sweet and fluffy but just ended up being too chewy to swallow. The only way I could ever recommend this book to anyone is if I put the word "not" in front of that recommendation. And then underlined that word. And then circled it. And then traced over it in neon pink permanent marker.
My only recommendation is that you save yourself the time with this one.
August 26, 2019
Realize will melt your heart💖!
This Review is for both E-book 📖 and Audible🎧 formats. An ARC was provided free, by LesCourt for the e-book and the audible I purchased. The opinions expressed are solely mine. 💋
The book: Realize: Men of Hidden Creek S.4 Bk.2
• Susan Hawke - author
• Nick J. Russo - narrator
• 269p. KU • 7hrs 48min Audible • Contemporary • Standalone • Happily Ever After • In A Series • Third-Person Narrative • Dual POV •
The romantic theme:
• Best Friends • Hurt/ Comfort • "Gay for You" • Demi-sexual
The read:
• Heavy Tones, BUT Not Heavy Angst • Good Pace • Made Me Smile • Sweet and Endearing • Sexy
SteaMMy Swordplay:
• 3 out of 5⚔⚔⚔ - I have a whole new appreciation for Ferris Wheels!😍
Story ingredients:
• Grief • Fake Marriage • Witty Banter • Illness • Adorable Children •
MC#1 is...
• Parker • Single Dad • Superhero Geek • Hot • Sweet • Straight?
MC#2 is...
• Max • Parker's Best Friend • Solid Fam Ties • Strong • Devoted to Parker's kids • Gorgeous Hunk • "raging, flaming, totally homo type of gay at the glittery end of that (Kinsey) scale." - quote from Max himself
This was a joy to read and listen 🎧 to. Thanks to the writing style of S Hawke, that I geek out over on the regular, and the narrator doing such a good job, I was immersed in the story without coming up for air til, "The End."
The characters drew me in and I became a part of the moving landscape, able to feel and experience every high and low, happy, sad, jubilant, and exquisite emotion as my eyes 👀 and ears👂took in each word.
Max and Parker's friendship spanned decades, and Max's family treated Parker as one of their own since he had no family, save his two small children, Cindy and Teddy.
Though Max and Parker were the MCs, Teddy and Cindy stole the show and completely melted my old lady heart.💗 Add in two precious furbabies, a quirky Aunt with pink hair and mad fort building skills and you have one wonder-filled story.
Even though this is part of a series, it definitely can be read on its own.
4.75 forever-family-stars✨✨✨✨•✨
This Review is for both E-book 📖 and Audible🎧 formats. An ARC was provided free, by LesCourt for the e-book and the audible I purchased. The opinions expressed are solely mine. 💋
The book: Realize: Men of Hidden Creek S.4 Bk.2
• Susan Hawke - author
• Nick J. Russo - narrator
• 269p. KU • 7hrs 48min Audible • Contemporary • Standalone • Happily Ever After • In A Series • Third-Person Narrative • Dual POV •
The romantic theme:
• Best Friends • Hurt/ Comfort • "Gay for You" • Demi-sexual
The read:
• Heavy Tones, BUT Not Heavy Angst • Good Pace • Made Me Smile • Sweet and Endearing • Sexy
SteaMMy Swordplay:
• 3 out of 5⚔⚔⚔ - I have a whole new appreciation for Ferris Wheels!😍
Story ingredients:
• Grief • Fake Marriage • Witty Banter • Illness • Adorable Children •
MC#1 is...
• Parker • Single Dad • Superhero Geek • Hot • Sweet • Straight?
MC#2 is...
• Max • Parker's Best Friend • Solid Fam Ties • Strong • Devoted to Parker's kids • Gorgeous Hunk • "raging, flaming, totally homo type of gay at the glittery end of that (Kinsey) scale." - quote from Max himself
This was a joy to read and listen 🎧 to. Thanks to the writing style of S Hawke, that I geek out over on the regular, and the narrator doing such a good job, I was immersed in the story without coming up for air til, "The End."
The characters drew me in and I became a part of the moving landscape, able to feel and experience every high and low, happy, sad, jubilant, and exquisite emotion as my eyes 👀 and ears👂took in each word.
Max and Parker's friendship spanned decades, and Max's family treated Parker as one of their own since he had no family, save his two small children, Cindy and Teddy.
Though Max and Parker were the MCs, Teddy and Cindy stole the show and completely melted my old lady heart.💗 Add in two precious furbabies, a quirky Aunt with pink hair and mad fort building skills and you have one wonder-filled story.
Even though this is part of a series, it definitely can be read on its own.
4.75 forever-family-stars✨✨✨✨•✨
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