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A Bridge to Abingdon #2
A Fighting Chance
Dillon:
I don’t do relationships. I’ve been abandoned all my life, and I don’t trust a soul except my own damn self. But there’s something different about Jack Chance. From his lithe, gymnast’s body to his soulful hazel eyes, he’s everything I never knew I wanted. When he’s wrapped up in my arms, begging for more, everything seems right about the world.
I’m not boyfriend material—everyone in Abingdon knows that. I’ve got a moonshine-making hillbilly family, a heart hardened by war, and I walk into burning buildings for a living. Oh, and I’m still in love with my best friend.
Jack shouldn’t want anything to do with me. He shouldn’t keep coming back each time I make a total a$$ of myself, and he shouldn’t forgive me when I keep refusing to tell him how I feel. And he should definitely run for the hills when I’m slapped with custody of my sister’s three kids.
But he doesn’t run. Instead, he’s making pancakes the morning after they move in. He’s up with Joey, soothing him through nightmares. He’s taking Chrissy to ballet. And he’s making sure Jordan knows how smart he is. No one has ever done that for those kids. No one has ever done that for me.
That’s the kind of man Jack Chance is. He’s a man who stays. It’s only when the court orders him away that I realize I was never done with love. I was just waiting for Jack.
Jack:
I like a good project—maybe that’s why I’m madly, ridiculously, over-the-moon in love with Dillon Manning. I want him to see what I see when I look at him—a hero, a whole, real man. I’m addicted to his touch, his body, the way he kisses me so deeply and so tenderly. There’s more to Dillon than he lets on. I just want him to realize it.
But Dillon is just about on my last nerve, and I’m ready to be done. That’s when the unthinkable happens. Dillon’s sister is caught up in a meth lab bust, and her kids have been breathing all of it in for months. It’ll take a village to get these kids healthy. And I’m Dillon’s village, whether he knows it or not. Every day, I’m falling more and more in love with him.
I might be gentle, and loyal, and kind. But when our family is threatened, I’ll do everything in my power to keep us together—even if that means putting my own life at risk. Dillon Manning is worth it. I’ve always known that.
And I’ll move heaven and earth to make sure that he knows exactly how I feel.
A Fighting Chance is the second novel in the Bridge to Abingdon series. Each book focuses on one adorable couple, and each can be read as a super-awesome standalone read. A Fighting Chance steamy scenes, a dollop of suspense, some amazing kids, a hillbilly reunion, and a family vacation that gives everyone a surprise. There are mentions of abuse and a couple of edge-of-your-seat scenes with an end-days preacher you’ll love to hate. Jack and Dillon are the heart of Abingdon, and the second chance we all wish we had. Enjoy!>
I don’t do relationships. I’ve been abandoned all my life, and I don’t trust a soul except my own damn self. But there’s something different about Jack Chance. From his lithe, gymnast’s body to his soulful hazel eyes, he’s everything I never knew I wanted. When he’s wrapped up in my arms, begging for more, everything seems right about the world.
I’m not boyfriend material—everyone in Abingdon knows that. I’ve got a moonshine-making hillbilly family, a heart hardened by war, and I walk into burning buildings for a living. Oh, and I’m still in love with my best friend.
Jack shouldn’t want anything to do with me. He shouldn’t keep coming back each time I make a total a$$ of myself, and he shouldn’t forgive me when I keep refusing to tell him how I feel. And he should definitely run for the hills when I’m slapped with custody of my sister’s three kids.
But he doesn’t run. Instead, he’s making pancakes the morning after they move in. He’s up with Joey, soothing him through nightmares. He’s taking Chrissy to ballet. And he’s making sure Jordan knows how smart he is. No one has ever done that for those kids. No one has ever done that for me.
That’s the kind of man Jack Chance is. He’s a man who stays. It’s only when the court orders him away that I realize I was never done with love. I was just waiting for Jack.
Jack:
I like a good project—maybe that’s why I’m madly, ridiculously, over-the-moon in love with Dillon Manning. I want him to see what I see when I look at him—a hero, a whole, real man. I’m addicted to his touch, his body, the way he kisses me so deeply and so tenderly. There’s more to Dillon than he lets on. I just want him to realize it.
But Dillon is just about on my last nerve, and I’m ready to be done. That’s when the unthinkable happens. Dillon’s sister is caught up in a meth lab bust, and her kids have been breathing all of it in for months. It’ll take a village to get these kids healthy. And I’m Dillon’s village, whether he knows it or not. Every day, I’m falling more and more in love with him.
I might be gentle, and loyal, and kind. But when our family is threatened, I’ll do everything in my power to keep us together—even if that means putting my own life at risk. Dillon Manning is worth it. I’ve always known that.
And I’ll move heaven and earth to make sure that he knows exactly how I feel.
A Fighting Chance is the second novel in the Bridge to Abingdon series. Each book focuses on one adorable couple, and each can be read as a super-awesome standalone read. A Fighting Chance steamy scenes, a dollop of suspense, some amazing kids, a hillbilly reunion, and a family vacation that gives everyone a surprise. There are mentions of abuse and a couple of edge-of-your-seat scenes with an end-days preacher you’ll love to hate. Jack and Dillon are the heart of Abingdon, and the second chance we all wish we had. Enjoy!>
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 12, 2018
277 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Tatum West
15 books194 followersTatum West is a writer and lover of MM romance. She grew up queer in a straight world. She’s now a mom of two, a dog-mom of one, and she’s working hard to raise kids who know that love is love and see the magic and depth of all human interactions. She crochets, crafts, and creates. She’s so glad she gets to write for a living and make characters who speak to her soul.
Tatum hails from Virginia and went to camp every summer near Abingdon. The Abingdon of the Bridge to Abingdon is a fictionalized version of many small towns, all thrown together and rolled up into one. The men of the town are the ideals created by her heart and mind, all on their paths to true love.
Tatum hails from Virginia and went to camp every summer near Abingdon. The Abingdon of the Bridge to Abingdon is a fictionalized version of many small towns, all thrown together and rolled up into one. The men of the town are the ideals created by her heart and mind, all on their paths to true love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
February 20, 2019
Loved:
◾Jack and the kids
◾Spicy sex scenes
◾Picture-perfect HEA
Not so much:
◾Dillon, who was pining for another man; Jack could have done better. I never saw the commitment from Dillon that I saw from Jack.
◾ Heavy-handed angst
◾ Grammatical issues (I've seen much worse, but I've also seen better)
◾Jack and the kids
◾Spicy sex scenes
◾Picture-perfect HEA
Not so much:
◾Dillon, who was pining for another man; Jack could have done better. I never saw the commitment from Dillon that I saw from Jack.
◾ Heavy-handed angst
◾ Grammatical issues (I've seen much worse, but I've also seen better)
March 7, 2024
a box of tissues should be a requirement before you start reading or listening to this story. I challenge anyone to have a dry eye by the time the last chapter is finished. This story was amazing. The characters are really well-done...the plot is good...the dialogue simply flowed....and the narrators are perfect for the voices. It had the right balance of "sexy stuff" that added to the story but didn't overwhelm. You couldn't have asked for a better ending. These characters are real. The situations are real. The outcomes are real, though in real life it would be rare for so many things to turn out so very well in the end. Even so, it is at least a possibility. I loved the romance and the erotic moments, but they really weren't needed in order for the story to simply work. This book made me cry, and that's a fairly rare occurrence unless the story is about dogs or cats. This one is about humans...everyday, run of the mill, hardworking humans... and it contains good times, bad times, realistic scenes, and more genuine love than I have encountered in a story in a long time.
March 21, 2024
What an ending
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May 3, 2023💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/28/2018)! 💝
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February 28, 2019Freebie at the zon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07KFPPHV...
February 16, 2019
I liked this, but I didn’t come close to loving it. I know I’m in the minority if other reviews are to go by. I tried, I really did, but I found myself bored more often than not. I literally had to force myself to not skim through most of the book because it was so detail heavy.
The sex scenes were written well and I did like a lot of the secondary characters. I adored the kids and Jack. I absolutely love the cover. I just hate the story didn’t really do much for me. I felt like Jack deserved better. Another thing I noticed in this book that I didn’t in Steele My Heart is the poor editing. If it would’ve been a few words or missed punctuation here and there I probably wouldn’t mention it but there were really a lot of mistakes.
I’ll be reading more by Tatum West because Steele My Heart is a new all-time favorite, but I can’t say that A Fighting Chance is one I’ll be coming back to.
Full review can be found at -
The sex scenes were written well and I did like a lot of the secondary characters. I adored the kids and Jack. I absolutely love the cover. I just hate the story didn’t really do much for me. I felt like Jack deserved better. Another thing I noticed in this book that I didn’t in Steele My Heart is the poor editing. If it would’ve been a few words or missed punctuation here and there I probably wouldn’t mention it but there were really a lot of mistakes.
I’ll be reading more by Tatum West because Steele My Heart is a new all-time favorite, but I can’t say that A Fighting Chance is one I’ll be coming back to.
Full review can be found at -
October 15, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. Dillon and Jacks relationship grew and blossomed so much that it would warm all your hearts. The kids though out were such a great story too of second chances and opportunities and first experiences. I loved this one more than I did the first book. Then add the epilogue too was the icing on the cake. 5/5
February 28, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥Heat level 3.5 (steamy and seamlessly intwined with the story)
WOW! I have no words, it was just so real!
This is a story about finding your person, having your life flipped on its head (a few times) and coming out the other side, stronger and more alive than you were before.
This book is so real world its not even funny. I found the trials and tribulation the main characters and their family face, so captivatingly real that it made me count my blessings in some ways and take heart in the knowledge that with the right supports and encouragements anyone can rise above their situation and be better for it.
Dillion and Jack seem to be opposites in many ways; the extrovert and the introvert, the joker and the stoic but they just work.
Possible spoilers below this point:
I haven’t read Tatum’s first book in this series (but I will now), so I wasn’t familiar with any previous characters. With this in mind Dillion’s ‘love’ for his previous ‘partner’ Gil (if you could call him that) was a little frustrating at times as it seemed very one sided and didn’t endear me towards Gil. Dillion seemed as a little lost and unsure of himself. His identity seemed so linked with Gil, he seemed to feel he wasn’t worth much because Gil ‘left’ so therefore anyone else would leave to, and then Jack came along! Jack seems to have his own problems with self worth and miscommunication, but held on. He faces Dillion’s lack of communication and deals with his emotional highs and lows, while doubting himself and Dillion’s feeling for him.
After only a few weeks/months of dating their lives are turned upside down and they are now in a fight for custody of 3 kids who have been failed by the system. Their lives turn hard fast and they seem to meet a challenge at every turn. While this would ruin a new couple, Dillion and Jack find themselves and the love they each deserve, while creating an instant family they will both do anything to protect!! I loved Jack’s sass and spark and his drive to stop at nothing to save the kids. The three kids in this book are amazing. Tatum’s writing style is so authentic and genuine, that I feel like I know the kids. I feel their fear and anxiety, their hope and tenacity and even their delightful pre-teen attitudes (thanks Jordan). Tatum’s approach to real life situations (CPS) is very well done and makes you feel the disappointment in the system when it is so caught up in red tape that it fails people which sadly happens in the real world.
All in all this book was amazing and worth a read even if you haven’t read the first in the series. I was gripped by the writing style and the easy flow of words to create a real family I feel like I now know. It follows their heart-ships, love, hope and drive to keep their family together. The kids are an amazing part of the story and deserve praise. Tatum wrote them so well I felt such pride at what they were able to do with their life as if they were my own.
An extra not, if you’ve read the book you’ll know what I mean when I say; oh my goodness! The kids letters to Jack just about broke my heart 😍
Anyway, that’s enough from me
Thanks for reading 📚!
🔥🔥🔥Heat level 3.5 (steamy and seamlessly intwined with the story)
WOW! I have no words, it was just so real!
This is a story about finding your person, having your life flipped on its head (a few times) and coming out the other side, stronger and more alive than you were before.
This book is so real world its not even funny. I found the trials and tribulation the main characters and their family face, so captivatingly real that it made me count my blessings in some ways and take heart in the knowledge that with the right supports and encouragements anyone can rise above their situation and be better for it.
Dillion and Jack seem to be opposites in many ways; the extrovert and the introvert, the joker and the stoic but they just work.
Possible spoilers below this point:
I haven’t read Tatum’s first book in this series (but I will now), so I wasn’t familiar with any previous characters. With this in mind Dillion’s ‘love’ for his previous ‘partner’ Gil (if you could call him that) was a little frustrating at times as it seemed very one sided and didn’t endear me towards Gil. Dillion seemed as a little lost and unsure of himself. His identity seemed so linked with Gil, he seemed to feel he wasn’t worth much because Gil ‘left’ so therefore anyone else would leave to, and then Jack came along! Jack seems to have his own problems with self worth and miscommunication, but held on. He faces Dillion’s lack of communication and deals with his emotional highs and lows, while doubting himself and Dillion’s feeling for him.
After only a few weeks/months of dating their lives are turned upside down and they are now in a fight for custody of 3 kids who have been failed by the system. Their lives turn hard fast and they seem to meet a challenge at every turn. While this would ruin a new couple, Dillion and Jack find themselves and the love they each deserve, while creating an instant family they will both do anything to protect!! I loved Jack’s sass and spark and his drive to stop at nothing to save the kids. The three kids in this book are amazing. Tatum’s writing style is so authentic and genuine, that I feel like I know the kids. I feel their fear and anxiety, their hope and tenacity and even their delightful pre-teen attitudes (thanks Jordan). Tatum’s approach to real life situations (CPS) is very well done and makes you feel the disappointment in the system when it is so caught up in red tape that it fails people which sadly happens in the real world.
All in all this book was amazing and worth a read even if you haven’t read the first in the series. I was gripped by the writing style and the easy flow of words to create a real family I feel like I now know. It follows their heart-ships, love, hope and drive to keep their family together. The kids are an amazing part of the story and deserve praise. Tatum wrote them so well I felt such pride at what they were able to do with their life as if they were my own.
An extra not, if you’ve read the book you’ll know what I mean when I say; oh my goodness! The kids letters to Jack just about broke my heart 😍
Anyway, that’s enough from me
Thanks for reading 📚!
November 17, 2018
This is a beautifully written story (with a few minor editing issues). I was going to leave a slightly different review, only because I was a little confused about how the MCs got together, but now that I know this is the second book, I'm definitely going to read the first to find out.
I have to tell you that this story is not far off from reality in my world. Ms. West is a new author for me. I was pleasantly surprised by how realistically some of the situations in the story played out. The MCs are well developed and very likeable. I'm aware now that some of the secondary characters were introduced in the first installment of this series.
I don't like to summarize stories in my reviews; that's why there is a blurb. However, I will say that once the story line takes off, you're along for the ride. The MCs are barely together when life gets in the way. They work together to make the best of things. But then stuff gets real.
There's a little angst, a little drama, a little action, and some really great sexy times. The thing I liked most about this book is that the priorities were right (IMO). Yes, the sexy times were hot, but this is not an erotic novel. This is real people, with real lives, with responsibilities that take priority over sex sometimes. For the most part, this is a happy book. It made me chuckle, and it made me tear up.
Happy reading!
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. *
I have to tell you that this story is not far off from reality in my world. Ms. West is a new author for me. I was pleasantly surprised by how realistically some of the situations in the story played out. The MCs are well developed and very likeable. I'm aware now that some of the secondary characters were introduced in the first installment of this series.
I don't like to summarize stories in my reviews; that's why there is a blurb. However, I will say that once the story line takes off, you're along for the ride. The MCs are barely together when life gets in the way. They work together to make the best of things. But then stuff gets real.
There's a little angst, a little drama, a little action, and some really great sexy times. The thing I liked most about this book is that the priorities were right (IMO). Yes, the sexy times were hot, but this is not an erotic novel. This is real people, with real lives, with responsibilities that take priority over sex sometimes. For the most part, this is a happy book. It made me chuckle, and it made me tear up.
Happy reading!
* I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. *
November 27, 2018
There were parts of this that I loved and others that were just kinda meh, but the thing I struggled with the most was that I just did not believe the relationship between Dillon and Jack. In fact, I wasn't much of a fan of Dillon at all. Jack and the kids? Awesome. Their story was worth the read, but Dillon could have dropped out entirely and I don't think I would have noticed. Such a weird mix of responses from me made it incredibly hard to rate this one.
April 7, 2019
Good story, but the editing errors just about drove me away. Plurals do NOT have apostrophes, vials are not necessarily vile, and please be consistent with your the age of your characters. I still think I'll read the rest of the series, but maybe I need to take a break for a little while...
November 20, 2018
I adored this book! It's not often you find a heartfelt gay romance. Most gay romances I've read just focus on the sex. This book focused on two guys as they fell in love and built a family. When Dillion's sister is busted he needs to take on the responsibility of raising his niece and two nephews. Lucky for him his boyfriend is right there by his side helping him through it all. I loved the relationship between Dillon and Jack and their relationships with the kids. They were there for them when they needed them the most. This was such a good story that had me smiling like crazy. One of the best gay romances I've read!
May 11, 2020
Real life, or almost
These characters are real. The situations are real. The outcomes are real, though it would be very rare for so many things to turn out so very well in the end. Even so, it is at least possible. I have to say I didn't need the erotic details in order for the story to work. They were an unnecessary distraction but fortunately very infrequent. This book made me cry and sniffle, and that's rare too unless the story is about dogs or horses. This one is about humans, good and loving for the greatest part.
These characters are real. The situations are real. The outcomes are real, though it would be very rare for so many things to turn out so very well in the end. Even so, it is at least possible. I have to say I didn't need the erotic details in order for the story to work. They were an unnecessary distraction but fortunately very infrequent. This book made me cry and sniffle, and that's rare too unless the story is about dogs or horses. This one is about humans, good and loving for the greatest part.
June 14, 2021
Sweet romance about a couple who while still fresh and unsure about each other, find themselves with 3 kids to raise. It was interesting and sweet mostly, but mainly focused on the kids and less on the romance. I liked it anyway even if I wasn't sold on the romance or passion between the MCs.
February 18, 2019
I loved this book. Dillon’s story is full of heart. After being in love with his best friend, unrequited and left behind, Dillon doesn’t do relationships. He meets Jack, an EMT after a party by chance. Jack is all about relationships, he wants one with Dillon. What he gets is way more than he bargained for. Instant families are not for everyone. I just felt so much for this couple, the kids, the family and their friends. There is so much love in this story. I couldn’t put the book down. The end is awesome!
March 7, 2021
A wonderful second installment in this romance series.
Dillon appears as a happy-go-lucky firefighter, without many responsibilities other than his job. He meets Jack when Jack comes to town after leaving the Navy. Burned by a past lover, who remains a good friend, abandoning him in his past, Dillon is unwilling to commit to Jack, despite the ease of their relationship and his building feelings.
Coming from an abusive childhood, while Jack is looking for someone to love and support him, he has serious trust issues and is frustrated by Dillon's hot and cold treatment.
When Dillon's world is turned upside-down and he takes on the guardianship of his sister's three children, Jack begins to see the responsible, committed man he wants Dillon to become. Falling in love with both Dillon and the children, Jack's inner calm and strength come to the forefront. He is willing to fight for the relationship he wants and deserves and to protect those children who have been through so much heartache so early in their lives.
No spoilers here, but suffice it to say that Dillon and Jack will have to fight through their own feelings of inadequacy and move beyond their pasts in addition to fighting misguided people seeking to tear their ersatz family apart to find their happiness.
While M/M romance may not be for everyone, the development of the relationship between Dillon and Jack is a wonderful read and the insecurities they harbor will be familiar to most of us. For anyone who has ever felt like they were not enough, or were afraid to allow themselves to connect with someone, their relationship will ring true.
I look forward to Ms. West's next installment in the series.
This is a voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
Dillon appears as a happy-go-lucky firefighter, without many responsibilities other than his job. He meets Jack when Jack comes to town after leaving the Navy. Burned by a past lover, who remains a good friend, abandoning him in his past, Dillon is unwilling to commit to Jack, despite the ease of their relationship and his building feelings.
Coming from an abusive childhood, while Jack is looking for someone to love and support him, he has serious trust issues and is frustrated by Dillon's hot and cold treatment.
When Dillon's world is turned upside-down and he takes on the guardianship of his sister's three children, Jack begins to see the responsible, committed man he wants Dillon to become. Falling in love with both Dillon and the children, Jack's inner calm and strength come to the forefront. He is willing to fight for the relationship he wants and deserves and to protect those children who have been through so much heartache so early in their lives.
No spoilers here, but suffice it to say that Dillon and Jack will have to fight through their own feelings of inadequacy and move beyond their pasts in addition to fighting misguided people seeking to tear their ersatz family apart to find their happiness.
While M/M romance may not be for everyone, the development of the relationship between Dillon and Jack is a wonderful read and the insecurities they harbor will be familiar to most of us. For anyone who has ever felt like they were not enough, or were afraid to allow themselves to connect with someone, their relationship will ring true.
I look forward to Ms. West's next installment in the series.
This is a voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
November 24, 2018
Love this book. Dillion and Jack started off in a friend with benefits relationship but it ended up being more. Dillion came to realize that much Jack meant to him and before he gets the chance to tell him he ends up with his niece and nephews. After Dillion tells Jack how he feels, they make their relationship works. This story is sweet, romantic, very intense, and loved it. I love any books with kids in and Jack and Dillion did a great with them. Dillion family are hilarious and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 28, 2019
Second Chance
It took a while to get this book. But I liked it - yes it was in need of some editing, yes there were misspelled words and the story was dragging in places and too much time spent on areas that were unnecessary. But both Dillon and Jack were strong characters with a great support team. And they worked very hard and we'll together to give the children a second chance and nurtured them.
It took a while to get this book. But I liked it - yes it was in need of some editing, yes there were misspelled words and the story was dragging in places and too much time spent on areas that were unnecessary. But both Dillon and Jack were strong characters with a great support team. And they worked very hard and we'll together to give the children a second chance and nurtured them.
December 16, 2019
I have to admit that I wasn’t sure about this one for a long time, but then the last part came around and I was gone for it.
April 4, 2019
“It’s a story about what’s worth fighting for, and how sometimes, even when we fight against very powerful opponents, we can win.” ~ Elizabeth Warren, A Fighting Chance
In Abingdon everyone knows that Dillon, of ‘A Fighting Chance’ by Tatum West, is someone to avoid if you expect a commitment. He is a great guy, generous and good-hearted, a professional fireman who will do everything he can to help anyone in trouble – but he can’t seem to help himself. Dillon has been through a lot in his life and has never recovered. After his best friend and lover, Gil, rejected him years ago, he never intends to put himself in that position again. Nothing good ever lasts, so why bother. That is, until he meets Jack Chance and he lets his heart hope. Even then he tries his best to drive Jack away. He and Jack have great chemistry. Their lovemaking is hot and the feelings it invokes in Dillon are just too good to be true, much less last. The thing is, he wants it to be real but is terrified of falling in love again. Dillon knows he has to make a move and fast, or he will lose Jack forever.
Jack Chance thoroughly enjoys being with Dillon both in and out of bed, but his push me-pull me attitude is quickly getting old. When they are together it’s almost like magic, but afterwards, Dillon runs out the door so fast that it makes Jack’s head spin. Dillon seems to be interested, but his rejection confuses and frustrates Jack, making him wonder if he is imagining how well they get along. Jack doesn’t give up easily. He knows there’s more to Dillon’s aloofness than he’s letting on. Jack is determined to find out what’s going on in Dillon’s handsome head. However, he knows it can’t be one-sided. If Dillon doesn’t let him in soon, Jack is going to have to admit defeat and move on. Amazingly, Dillon comes to him and apologizes, telling Jack he knows he’s been a jerk, but just doesn’t know how to do relationships. Jack sees it as a door opening. While they are beginning to sort things out, Dillon gets a call that changes his life. A meth lab has blown up and it’s in the trailer where his sister and her children live. Dillon is in a panic and knows he needs support. He asks Jack to come with him and, of course, Jack agrees.
This the second book in the series and is just as intriguing and endearing as the first. I loved the way Dillon stepped up to care for his troubled niece and nephews, making sure to give them what they had never had. Jack was even more incredible for sticking with Dillon and loving him and the kids. He was amazing with his nurturing support, working through the issues as they came up. There’s a lot of angst, but even more love. Thanks, Tatum, for another terrific story! I can’t wait for the next book.
In Abingdon everyone knows that Dillon, of ‘A Fighting Chance’ by Tatum West, is someone to avoid if you expect a commitment. He is a great guy, generous and good-hearted, a professional fireman who will do everything he can to help anyone in trouble – but he can’t seem to help himself. Dillon has been through a lot in his life and has never recovered. After his best friend and lover, Gil, rejected him years ago, he never intends to put himself in that position again. Nothing good ever lasts, so why bother. That is, until he meets Jack Chance and he lets his heart hope. Even then he tries his best to drive Jack away. He and Jack have great chemistry. Their lovemaking is hot and the feelings it invokes in Dillon are just too good to be true, much less last. The thing is, he wants it to be real but is terrified of falling in love again. Dillon knows he has to make a move and fast, or he will lose Jack forever.
Jack Chance thoroughly enjoys being with Dillon both in and out of bed, but his push me-pull me attitude is quickly getting old. When they are together it’s almost like magic, but afterwards, Dillon runs out the door so fast that it makes Jack’s head spin. Dillon seems to be interested, but his rejection confuses and frustrates Jack, making him wonder if he is imagining how well they get along. Jack doesn’t give up easily. He knows there’s more to Dillon’s aloofness than he’s letting on. Jack is determined to find out what’s going on in Dillon’s handsome head. However, he knows it can’t be one-sided. If Dillon doesn’t let him in soon, Jack is going to have to admit defeat and move on. Amazingly, Dillon comes to him and apologizes, telling Jack he knows he’s been a jerk, but just doesn’t know how to do relationships. Jack sees it as a door opening. While they are beginning to sort things out, Dillon gets a call that changes his life. A meth lab has blown up and it’s in the trailer where his sister and her children live. Dillon is in a panic and knows he needs support. He asks Jack to come with him and, of course, Jack agrees.
This the second book in the series and is just as intriguing and endearing as the first. I loved the way Dillon stepped up to care for his troubled niece and nephews, making sure to give them what they had never had. Jack was even more incredible for sticking with Dillon and loving him and the kids. He was amazing with his nurturing support, working through the issues as they came up. There’s a lot of angst, but even more love. Thanks, Tatum, for another terrific story! I can’t wait for the next book.
November 16, 2018
Dillon Manning has a hard time letting anyone into his heart. Jack Chance knows his heart and knows Dillon’s the one for him, but he can only be pushed away so many times. Just when Dillon is ready to give Jack a chance at his heart his whole world turns upside down. As Dillon steps up to be the man his nephews and niece need him to be for them, he discovers that Jack is more than worth the effort it will take to risk his heart and happiness, but things won’t be smooth sailing. This is a roller coaster ride with all its ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected bends.
This is so much more than just a romantic love story. It’s a story about fighting for the chance to be a family, for the union of two hearts and three needy nearly lost souls, and their struggle to earn their right to love and happily ever after. It’s a tale full of emotions, drama, and intense passion. There are joyous highs and heartbreaking lows. There are heart-warming moments, moments when you will be brought to tears, and terrifying moments when you are afraid of what may happen next. Dillon and Jack’s story grabs you from the very beginning, squeezes your heart and doesn’t let you go until the very end! I often found myself holding back tears because I knew, if I started to cry, I wouldn’t be able to stop. You do not want to miss this! If you loved Gil’s story “Steele My Heart”, this one is even better!!
This is so much more than just a romantic love story. It’s a story about fighting for the chance to be a family, for the union of two hearts and three needy nearly lost souls, and their struggle to earn their right to love and happily ever after. It’s a tale full of emotions, drama, and intense passion. There are joyous highs and heartbreaking lows. There are heart-warming moments, moments when you will be brought to tears, and terrifying moments when you are afraid of what may happen next. Dillon and Jack’s story grabs you from the very beginning, squeezes your heart and doesn’t let you go until the very end! I often found myself holding back tears because I knew, if I started to cry, I wouldn’t be able to stop. You do not want to miss this! If you loved Gil’s story “Steele My Heart”, this one is even better!!
December 13, 2023
Abingdon EMT Jack Chance is frustrated with firefighter Dillon Manning, who is happy with their FWB situation and avoids any conversations Jack tries to have with Dillon about changing their relationship status. All that changes when Dillon is saddled with raising his niece and two nephews after Dillon’s sister and no-good ex-husband are charged with drug manufacturing offences. Suddenly, Dillon realises he can’t live without Jack, who is always calm and a natural with the kids. With social services, legal hurdles, and angry redneck family members, they’ll need to fight hard to give the kids a safe, loving home.
I really enjoyed this rollercoaster family-drama romance! There were loads of heart-melting moments with the kids in between the tense courtroom battles and heightened family drama. It was hard to put down! I loved Jack and was prepared to be frustrated with Dillon but he rose to each occasion well once his errors were pointed out. Alexander Cendese (as Dillon) gave his usual great performance and I warmed to Tor Thom (as Jack), his style matched Jack’s calm demeanour well (the whole series is currently free on the Audible Plus catalogue).
I really enjoyed this rollercoaster family-drama romance! There were loads of heart-melting moments with the kids in between the tense courtroom battles and heightened family drama. It was hard to put down! I loved Jack and was prepared to be frustrated with Dillon but he rose to each occasion well once his errors were pointed out. Alexander Cendese (as Dillon) gave his usual great performance and I warmed to Tor Thom (as Jack), his style matched Jack’s calm demeanour well (the whole series is currently free on the Audible Plus catalogue).
November 17, 2018
When they say, opposites attract the concept is not a foreign one to Dillon and Jack!
Dillon a stoic man with lines that are hard to cross and walls even harder to break down- has a heart ready to be loved underneath the armor surrounding it- but fear is, and the hand that life's dealt him keeps him from moving forward. Until Jack, the heart of gold, full of no-nonsense sass man comes into his life!
Insecurities and fear may be holding them back, but when three broken young lives need their guidance- it may take a village to make it work, but there's a good chance they could all come out the other side of this thing healed!
Phew! What a spectacular read!
Fiction meets reality in the most heart maddening of ways! This raw down to earth sizzling story kept me up till one A.M finishing! The journey Dillon, Jack, and those three kids go on to find their Hea was an awe-inspiring, well-written one that I enjoyed and highly recommend to anyone who appreciates M/M romances! 5 Heartfelt stars!!
Dillon a stoic man with lines that are hard to cross and walls even harder to break down- has a heart ready to be loved underneath the armor surrounding it- but fear is, and the hand that life's dealt him keeps him from moving forward. Until Jack, the heart of gold, full of no-nonsense sass man comes into his life!
Insecurities and fear may be holding them back, but when three broken young lives need their guidance- it may take a village to make it work, but there's a good chance they could all come out the other side of this thing healed!
Phew! What a spectacular read!
Fiction meets reality in the most heart maddening of ways! This raw down to earth sizzling story kept me up till one A.M finishing! The journey Dillon, Jack, and those three kids go on to find their Hea was an awe-inspiring, well-written one that I enjoyed and highly recommend to anyone who appreciates M/M romances! 5 Heartfelt stars!!
April 16, 2019
I've already 2 other books in this series (out of order - oops), and this so far is my least favorite of what I've read (I was a little surprised at the .
From the get-go I thought that Dillon was a (excuse the French) douche. He's a total player, flighty and selfish, and he treated Jack horribly. Jack seemed to be a total giving sweetheart who was letting Dillon basically step all over him. When different issues caused Dillon to have to take over guardianship of his sister's 3 children, Jack stepped in and became a major source of help for Dillon.
I just couldn't help but feel that Dillon was only staying with Jack because he liked having a babysitter.
This and that happen and Dillon is able to convince Jack that he genuinely loves him, blah, blah, blah. I'm at least glad that there's a little follow up at the end of the book with the kids grown up so we can see how well everyone turned out even with all of the issues they faced in the beginning.
Again, an okay story but far from the best in the series... at least I finished it.
From the get-go I thought that Dillon was a (excuse the French) douche. He's a total player, flighty and selfish, and he treated Jack horribly. Jack seemed to be a total giving sweetheart who was letting Dillon basically step all over him. When different issues caused Dillon to have to take over guardianship of his sister's 3 children, Jack stepped in and became a major source of help for Dillon.
I just couldn't help but feel that Dillon was only staying with Jack because he liked having a babysitter.
This and that happen and Dillon is able to convince Jack that he genuinely loves him, blah, blah, blah. I'm at least glad that there's a little follow up at the end of the book with the kids grown up so we can see how well everyone turned out even with all of the issues they faced in the beginning.
Again, an okay story but far from the best in the series... at least I finished it.
November 4, 2019
More errors than any book I've read
Normally I'd rate this book 3 stars, I managed to make it to the end without throwing my hands up in disgust. It's a good 3 star story. I prefer a story to start with a little plot over an immediate sex scene followed by countless pages of self doubt. Once this story finally got going I found it fairly interesting almost until the end. Unfortunately, the end was so over the top in its incredible perfection, happiness and unrealistic accomplishments that it exceeded any fairy tale.
The book itself is poorly written, full of sloppy mistakes. For example, I found three typos/grammatical errors in three consequtive paragraphs. I'm left with the impression that the author is more concerned about publishing speed and quantity than quality.
This book has a lot of five star ratings so I'm sure my perspective will offend many. I'm ok without that. I grew up in a world where not everyone got a trophy, straight A's or won the lottery (repeatedly). If you like beyond perfect characters and sloppy writing, this is the book for you.
Normally I'd rate this book 3 stars, I managed to make it to the end without throwing my hands up in disgust. It's a good 3 star story. I prefer a story to start with a little plot over an immediate sex scene followed by countless pages of self doubt. Once this story finally got going I found it fairly interesting almost until the end. Unfortunately, the end was so over the top in its incredible perfection, happiness and unrealistic accomplishments that it exceeded any fairy tale.
The book itself is poorly written, full of sloppy mistakes. For example, I found three typos/grammatical errors in three consequtive paragraphs. I'm left with the impression that the author is more concerned about publishing speed and quantity than quality.
This book has a lot of five star ratings so I'm sure my perspective will offend many. I'm ok without that. I grew up in a world where not everyone got a trophy, straight A's or won the lottery (repeatedly). If you like beyond perfect characters and sloppy writing, this is the book for you.
January 26, 2022
I gave this one 5-stars just for the "feels"! The pros far outweighed the cons in this story. I knew when I read the first book in this series that this was an author that would be a go-to author for me! I love their style of writing and the way they think! The characters just grab you and won't let go! You either love them or hate them... with equal fervor!
Even though in the beginning I wasn't sure about Dillion and getting to know Jack was slow going, once those kids made an entrance the story just blossomed! My heart would jump for joy, then break with sorrow... but, we were given the ending that we didn't even know we could get, and let's just say it was a wonderful ending! *grin*
Now, I just have to see what wonderful things I will find in book 3, Chase Me Home!!!
Even though in the beginning I wasn't sure about Dillion and getting to know Jack was slow going, once those kids made an entrance the story just blossomed! My heart would jump for joy, then break with sorrow... but, we were given the ending that we didn't even know we could get, and let's just say it was a wonderful ending! *grin*
Now, I just have to see what wonderful things I will find in book 3, Chase Me Home!!!
January 24, 2021
Jack and Dillon wow! When we first meet Dillon in book one he's a firefighter having a fling with Jamie, corrupt police. This relationship is very short and in this book, we are introduced to Jack who is the current fling, not quite the boyfriend even when they have been going strong for the past months.
I really liked Jack, he's honest, noble and a hard worker. He is also incredibly in love with Dillon - even when Dillon is not open with relationships. Dillon, on the other hand, is very unsure of himself in the relationship department and has been dependent on Gil's feelings for years.
What I loved the most about this book is not how it builds the relationship, trust, and feelings with Jack and Dillon, but it also includes Dillon's family: especially his nephews and niece. This relationship grows with the children, with the need to support and protect them, to see them grow. Dillon and Jack build a group of support for three children who have been broken and don't know love. This is one of the most beautiful families I have ever read about. Jack does everything for them and Dillon too, they live and die for those children and provide them with so much love and trust that is impossible not to love their family interaction.
There is also action where Jack is badass and where Dillon is all for those children but the HEA is everything and when I say EVERYTHING I mean it.
I really liked Jack, he's honest, noble and a hard worker. He is also incredibly in love with Dillon - even when Dillon is not open with relationships. Dillon, on the other hand, is very unsure of himself in the relationship department and has been dependent on Gil's feelings for years.
What I loved the most about this book is not how it builds the relationship, trust, and feelings with Jack and Dillon, but it also includes Dillon's family: especially his nephews and niece. This relationship grows with the children, with the need to support and protect them, to see them grow. Dillon and Jack build a group of support for three children who have been broken and don't know love. This is one of the most beautiful families I have ever read about. Jack does everything for them and Dillon too, they live and die for those children and provide them with so much love and trust that is impossible not to love their family interaction.
There is also action where Jack is badass and where Dillon is all for those children but the HEA is everything and when I say EVERYTHING I mean it.
January 2, 2022
4.5 stars: The fireman and the EMT
Second in the series set in Abingdon, Dillon the fireman and buddy of Police Chief Gil from the first book gets a call to head to his younger sister's place. Busted, her 3 kids are checked out by EMT Jack. The magic happens, and the duo take in the kids and begin their rehabilitation. Dillon's family helps, his sister's father-in-law makes trouble, the gay mafia kicks in and life gets better.
Having just finished the first book, the carryover cast enrich the plot. West has given more substance to some, while others fade. A new bad guy has all the stereotypical fails: someone to really dislike. And the physical sessions between the MCs is similarly handled with enough detail and discretion to please.
Second in the series set in Abingdon, Dillon the fireman and buddy of Police Chief Gil from the first book gets a call to head to his younger sister's place. Busted, her 3 kids are checked out by EMT Jack. The magic happens, and the duo take in the kids and begin their rehabilitation. Dillon's family helps, his sister's father-in-law makes trouble, the gay mafia kicks in and life gets better.
Having just finished the first book, the carryover cast enrich the plot. West has given more substance to some, while others fade. A new bad guy has all the stereotypical fails: someone to really dislike. And the physical sessions between the MCs is similarly handled with enough detail and discretion to please.
March 24, 2025
4.3 stars. I read book #1 5 days ago, and if Jack and Dillon met in that book it was certainly not memorable. There are a few things like that which make the pacing of the book kind of jarring. They are just already together and barely hanging at the start of the book. Although Jack had a terrible relationship with his mother, he invites her on vacation with them?? There are definitely some TWs in this book - abusive family members, child endangerment, drug kitchens... But this book has an engaging story line with characters that feel and love deeply (Jack is so awesome in this book), and characters that grow up - Dillon. Because this book has children characters, there are issues that are not all hearts and flowers, but that makes the story much richer.
April 17, 2019
Ugh the tears 😭
Okay so first off Joeys valedictorian speech!!! Omg all of the feels right there in the end. What a way to finish this epic book!
I feel like this book takes you for a huge journey! From the start of Dillon and Jack’s relationship, to so many trials and tribulations, lots of fun times and not so many fun times. Weddings and then graduations. You will fall so in love with Jack, Dillon, Chrissy, Jordan and little Joey. You feel like you are sitting in the audience watching him cross that stage. This book series is addicting and I know you will fall in love with all these characters like I did!
Okay so first off Joeys valedictorian speech!!! Omg all of the feels right there in the end. What a way to finish this epic book!
I feel like this book takes you for a huge journey! From the start of Dillon and Jack’s relationship, to so many trials and tribulations, lots of fun times and not so many fun times. Weddings and then graduations. You will fall so in love with Jack, Dillon, Chrissy, Jordan and little Joey. You feel like you are sitting in the audience watching him cross that stage. This book series is addicting and I know you will fall in love with all these characters like I did!
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