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The Troll Whisperer #2
Settle Down
At last, the long-awaited sequel to The Troll Whisperer!
Noah and Oscar have been married for five years, and now they’ve become parents to an adorable baby girl. Life seems just about perfect, but a sudden illness puts Noah’s sister Rebecca into a coma, which brings Noah’s mother and father back into his life. As they battle for control over the care of Rebecca, Noah must also defend his little family against his bigoted parents. Oscar and the Lozada clan have his back, but only Noah can truly stand up to his parents, once and for all—if he can find the courage to do it.
Noah and Oscar have been married for five years, and now they’ve become parents to an adorable baby girl. Life seems just about perfect, but a sudden illness puts Noah’s sister Rebecca into a coma, which brings Noah’s mother and father back into his life. As they battle for control over the care of Rebecca, Noah must also defend his little family against his bigoted parents. Oscar and the Lozada clan have his back, but only Noah can truly stand up to his parents, once and for all—if he can find the courage to do it.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2020
17 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Sera Trevor
13 books220 followersSera Trevor is terminally curious and views the 35 book limit at her local library as a dare. She’s a little bit interested in just about everything, which is probably why she can’t pin herself to one subgenre. Her books are populated with dragons, vampire movie stars, shadow people, and internet trolls. (Not in the same book, obviously, although that would be interesting!) Her works have been nominated for several Goodreads M/M Romance Reader's Choice Awards, including Best Contemporary, Best Fantasy, and Best Debut, for which she won third prize in 2015 for her novella Consorting With Dragons.
She lives in California with her husband, two kids, and a cat the size of three cats.
She lives in California with her husband, two kids, and a cat the size of three cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 11, 2023
That ending, standing ovation.
October 14, 2023
3.5⭐️
Sequel to Troll Whisperer.
My love for Noah remained strong throughout the book, and I loved Oscar and the whole extended family.
That said, Oscars tendency to purposely push people by being passive aggressive, when he could have kept peace annoyed me a bit, but I suppose I should expect it from his old trolling days.
I enjoyed the family drama of this book.
Sequel to Troll Whisperer.
My love for Noah remained strong throughout the book, and I loved Oscar and the whole extended family.
That said, Oscars tendency to purposely push people by being passive aggressive, when he could have kept peace annoyed me a bit, but I suppose I should expect it from his old trolling days.
I enjoyed the family drama of this book.
May 31, 2022
2 and 1/2 stars. The first book was so good. I loved Oscar and Noah. In this book I found Noah completely irritating. He constantly apologized and felt guilty for things he had no control over. Oscar was the rock that held everything together. I might have given the book three stars, but I couldn’t believe how it ended between Noah and his mother.
April 15, 2020
3.5/5⭐
[I received a copy for an honest review]
Settle Down by Sara Trevor is the second book in her series, The Troll Whisperer. This is a continuing series so if you haven't read the first book go do that now, you won't regret it. :)
I was a little hesitant with what could happen next for our main couple, Oscar and Noah. Settle Down starts off with them becoming a little family with an addition of their baby girl. While the first book is told in Oscars from Oscars point of view this one is told from Noah. Also unlike the first book Noah doesn't seem to be handling things very well, the stress of being a dad, his past and his family is really wearing him down. This book forces Noah to confront his past and his parents, and to stop holding himself responsible for everything that goes wrong. When the unthinkable happens, they have to do whatever it takes to save the family they have built.
"I promise you, no matter what happens, we will get through it, together."
I didn't think it would be possible to love Oscar any more than I did at the end of the first book but it happened. He is seriously the most adorable papa and the way he supports Noah and cares for him is such a change from where he began as a person in the first book. Together as a couple they stumble at times, but they are there for each other no matter what. Oscar's family and his friends also continue to give unconditional support and love.
Settle Down was a great continuation of Noah and Oscar's story and I'm interested to see where she takes them from here or if she'll give another member of their family a happily ever after they deserve.
[I received a copy for an honest review]
Settle Down by Sara Trevor is the second book in her series, The Troll Whisperer. This is a continuing series so if you haven't read the first book go do that now, you won't regret it. :)
I was a little hesitant with what could happen next for our main couple, Oscar and Noah. Settle Down starts off with them becoming a little family with an addition of their baby girl. While the first book is told in Oscars from Oscars point of view this one is told from Noah. Also unlike the first book Noah doesn't seem to be handling things very well, the stress of being a dad, his past and his family is really wearing him down. This book forces Noah to confront his past and his parents, and to stop holding himself responsible for everything that goes wrong. When the unthinkable happens, they have to do whatever it takes to save the family they have built.
"I promise you, no matter what happens, we will get through it, together."
I didn't think it would be possible to love Oscar any more than I did at the end of the first book but it happened. He is seriously the most adorable papa and the way he supports Noah and cares for him is such a change from where he began as a person in the first book. Together as a couple they stumble at times, but they are there for each other no matter what. Oscar's family and his friends also continue to give unconditional support and love.
Settle Down was a great continuation of Noah and Oscar's story and I'm interested to see where she takes them from here or if she'll give another member of their family a happily ever after they deserve.
May 20, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
When I say this is a family drama, I mean it. There are excruciating moments where Noah’s worst fears and worries come true, and it’s harrowing. I don’t want to give too much away here, but I was long past tired of Noah’s doomsday scenarios by this point, wishing Noah would just “settle down” already. Yet in those late chapters I was finally able to see Noah grow beyond his fears. Noah has many emotional scars from his upbringing in the Witness faith, and his deep understanding of its mindset might come off as complacent, if the reader didn’t understand the extent and depth of his concerns. Up to the climax, Noah seemed really soft, and I wasn’t really into him as a narrator, however the mettle he demonstrated to keep his family together was thrilling and rewarding. He never could have saved the day if he didn’t have the support of Oscar, the Lozadas, and intimate knowledge of Witness customs.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
When I say this is a family drama, I mean it. There are excruciating moments where Noah’s worst fears and worries come true, and it’s harrowing. I don’t want to give too much away here, but I was long past tired of Noah’s doomsday scenarios by this point, wishing Noah would just “settle down” already. Yet in those late chapters I was finally able to see Noah grow beyond his fears. Noah has many emotional scars from his upbringing in the Witness faith, and his deep understanding of its mindset might come off as complacent, if the reader didn’t understand the extent and depth of his concerns. Up to the climax, Noah seemed really soft, and I wasn’t really into him as a narrator, however the mettle he demonstrated to keep his family together was thrilling and rewarding. He never could have saved the day if he didn’t have the support of Oscar, the Lozadas, and intimate knowledge of Witness customs.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
April 17, 2020
After reading the first book and short story, I couldn't wait for Oscar and Noah's love to continue.
In this book, the couple has a daughter, Bette who is the love of the whole family. I'm not going to lift the veil too much so I don't spoil the surprise, I can only say that Noah's sister Rebecca who shows up at the wedding has a preponderant role throughout the book.
I really liked this book as I liked the first one, Oscar is much calmer and Noah is still a sweetheart
I recommend this book although it is preferable to start with the first because much of what goes on in this book is related to the previous
I received an arc in exchange for a honest review
In this book, the couple has a daughter, Bette who is the love of the whole family. I'm not going to lift the veil too much so I don't spoil the surprise, I can only say that Noah's sister Rebecca who shows up at the wedding has a preponderant role throughout the book.
I really liked this book as I liked the first one, Oscar is much calmer and Noah is still a sweetheart
I recommend this book although it is preferable to start with the first because much of what goes on in this book is related to the previous
I received an arc in exchange for a honest review
April 28, 2020
In Settle Down, Noah and Oscar have been married for years and are daddies to an adorable little girl. But it's this baby that will bring about their biggest obstacle yet. How each handles this obstacle will tell if/how their marriage sticks.
I loved this sequel. The two are going strong and have settled into their relationship. Oscar has really stabilized and become a man equal to his husband, who deserves his love and his big heart. His family has fully embraced Noah and their baby daughter, and all is lovely, until of course the big plot point happens. It's this plot point that really made the story and I liked seeing them tested and how each reacts. Put together, I really liked this 2 (and half) installments of Noah and Oscar's love story. It's sweet and their connection has only gotten stronger in Settle Down.
ARC via GRR ARC Team for an honest review.
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April 14, 2020
*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*
I'd say this is more of a high three star, but not quite a four star for me. I still love this couple. But I had a hard time with Noah this book. It says what it says about me, but I just wanted to smack him and tell him to get it together. I think maybe if it had been set closer to their beginning as a family and couple I could've had more leeway for him. But like...it's been 5 years, you have a kid, I know your family sucks but suck it up and stand up for yourself. However I do love how Oscar supports him through all the mess and family disasters. He's really there for him, even when Noah doesn't want him to be. I wish there'd been more focus on them as a couple, they have some issues that Oscar calls out but I didn't feel like there was real resolution on page. Maybe it comes after Noah makes peace with his childhood though. But I would've liked to see something more. Ultimately though, this was a nice revisit and I'm happy to see them with Oscar's family, and their daughter. Those parts were all sweet and happy-making.
I'd say this is more of a high three star, but not quite a four star for me. I still love this couple. But I had a hard time with Noah this book. It says what it says about me, but I just wanted to smack him and tell him to get it together. I think maybe if it had been set closer to their beginning as a family and couple I could've had more leeway for him. But like...it's been 5 years, you have a kid, I know your family sucks but suck it up and stand up for yourself. However I do love how Oscar supports him through all the mess and family disasters. He's really there for him, even when Noah doesn't want him to be. I wish there'd been more focus on them as a couple, they have some issues that Oscar calls out but I didn't feel like there was real resolution on page. Maybe it comes after Noah makes peace with his childhood though. But I would've liked to see something more. Ultimately though, this was a nice revisit and I'm happy to see them with Oscar's family, and their daughter. Those parts were all sweet and happy-making.
April 16, 2020
3.5 stars
Present happiness can always be threatened If past wounds are suddenly reopened…
Five years into their marriage, Noah and Oscar seem to have it all. Good jobs, a new home, a baby daughter and a supportive family. But when Noah’s sister becomes suddenly ill, Noah’s parents turn up, and seem to be determined to steal every single thing Noah loves, even the most precious one…
Even though it deals with the same couple, this story is very different from the first one, because of the point of view. This story is narrated from Noah’s point of view, whereas the first one was narrated entirely from Oscar’s point of view. Noah and Oscar are as different as they get, so the tone of the story varies a lot. Where Oscar’s was sarcastic and dark, Noah’s is full of remorse and second thoughts. Noah has to settle his issues with his past, it is the only way to be able to move forward. It takes him the whole book to be able to face his fears and break the grasp his old community still has over him.
As I said, it is a different story from the first one. It is entertaining as well, but I really enjoyed being in Oscar’s head, he’s such an attractive jerk. Noah’s relentless guilt and second guessing was not as appealing. But it is a good story anyway
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Present happiness can always be threatened If past wounds are suddenly reopened…
Five years into their marriage, Noah and Oscar seem to have it all. Good jobs, a new home, a baby daughter and a supportive family. But when Noah’s sister becomes suddenly ill, Noah’s parents turn up, and seem to be determined to steal every single thing Noah loves, even the most precious one…
Even though it deals with the same couple, this story is very different from the first one, because of the point of view. This story is narrated from Noah’s point of view, whereas the first one was narrated entirely from Oscar’s point of view. Noah and Oscar are as different as they get, so the tone of the story varies a lot. Where Oscar’s was sarcastic and dark, Noah’s is full of remorse and second thoughts. Noah has to settle his issues with his past, it is the only way to be able to move forward. It takes him the whole book to be able to face his fears and break the grasp his old community still has over him.
As I said, it is a different story from the first one. It is entertaining as well, but I really enjoyed being in Oscar’s head, he’s such an attractive jerk. Noah’s relentless guilt and second guessing was not as appealing. But it is a good story anyway
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
September 4, 2021
This time it is noahs story of exercising his past. His sister appears. Baby arrives, tragedy strikes and the parents from hell arrive. Shows us how an oppressive culture can do so much damage but with love and caring the worst can be overcome. This time its oscar who supports the harsh healing journey.
July 1, 2020
REVIEWED BY ULYSSES DIETZ
MEMBER OF THE PARANORMAL ROMANCE GUILD REVIEW TEAM
I had the chance to read both Settle Down and to re-read The Troll Whisperer, the book for which it is the sequel. That was published five years ago, and I liked it, so it was great to reacquaint myself with the set-up for Noel Henderson and Oscar Lozada’s story.
The striking thing about Settle Down is that it’s really Noah’s story, while The Troll Whisperer was Oscar’s. Oscar was an angry man, trolling the internet to find validation that made up for the complete lack of self-worth he felt. In that book, Noah is the magical being, having walked away from his life as a Jehovah’s Witness, who saves Oscar’s heart and soul. What the first book didn’t do was deal with Noah’s loss, the damage Noah’s past has caused him. Come to think of it, Noah seems weirdly solid in the first book. Well, that’s all taken care of in Settle Down.
The story begins five years into Noah’s career as a nurse, with the birth of their daughter, Bette. The author really sets up the new book well, giving us the backstory almost to the point of being a stand-alone; but, honestly, it is a richer experience having read the first book. Here, Oscar is the rock, having benefited hugely from Noah’s love and encouragement. Oscar’s family, his best friend Jeremy, and Jeremy’s family are all there for backup, and Trevor makes this an ensemble cast, where everybody matters to the plot and the emotional potency of the story arc.
Finally, faced with a potential tragedy, Noah’s family enters the picture, and everything this young man has bottled up and ignored since he left home comes barreling to the front of the stage. Finally, Noah must face his truth, and this time it is Oscar who has to heal the damage.
Settle Down is an unexpectedly powerful and emotional book, surprising and gratifying by turns. If you didn’t catch The Troll Whisperer five years ago, I recommend you get it and read them together as I did.
MEMBER OF THE PARANORMAL ROMANCE GUILD REVIEW TEAM
I had the chance to read both Settle Down and to re-read The Troll Whisperer, the book for which it is the sequel. That was published five years ago, and I liked it, so it was great to reacquaint myself with the set-up for Noel Henderson and Oscar Lozada’s story.
The striking thing about Settle Down is that it’s really Noah’s story, while The Troll Whisperer was Oscar’s. Oscar was an angry man, trolling the internet to find validation that made up for the complete lack of self-worth he felt. In that book, Noah is the magical being, having walked away from his life as a Jehovah’s Witness, who saves Oscar’s heart and soul. What the first book didn’t do was deal with Noah’s loss, the damage Noah’s past has caused him. Come to think of it, Noah seems weirdly solid in the first book. Well, that’s all taken care of in Settle Down.
The story begins five years into Noah’s career as a nurse, with the birth of their daughter, Bette. The author really sets up the new book well, giving us the backstory almost to the point of being a stand-alone; but, honestly, it is a richer experience having read the first book. Here, Oscar is the rock, having benefited hugely from Noah’s love and encouragement. Oscar’s family, his best friend Jeremy, and Jeremy’s family are all there for backup, and Trevor makes this an ensemble cast, where everybody matters to the plot and the emotional potency of the story arc.
Finally, faced with a potential tragedy, Noah’s family enters the picture, and everything this young man has bottled up and ignored since he left home comes barreling to the front of the stage. Finally, Noah must face his truth, and this time it is Oscar who has to heal the damage.
Settle Down is an unexpectedly powerful and emotional book, surprising and gratifying by turns. If you didn’t catch The Troll Whisperer five years ago, I recommend you get it and read them together as I did.
May 4, 2021
A lovely conclusion to Noah and Oscar's story.
I've dealt with religious zealots in real life, so parts of this were a hard read and keep me from absolutely loving it. Without giving spoilers, I'll just say that the scenes with Noah's parents are very realistic and even their extreme actions are similar to real life cases. I felt so much for both Noah and Oscar in how Noah's past as a Witness came back to haunt them in this. I was definitely on the side of Oscar, but I'm empathetic to how it would be for Noah to escape that conditioning.
All that aside, the love and message of love in this book is beautiful. The family and home that Noah and Oscar have built is beautiful. For a good portion of this story, I marveled at how Oscar had grown and matured from the first book. Then Noah's parents arrived and we got our lovable troll back. Most of the time it wasn't helpful, but I totally got why Oscar fell back into that antagonistic mode. I have all three parts of the series and this is really a wonderful way to conclude their love story. Yes, there are some dramatic tropes that I often drag other books for having, but they made sense to me in this story. As is the case in many real life scenarios like Noah's, it takes traumatic events to fully sever yourself from that kind of past to truly move forward. Sometimes breaking the bone again is the only way to get it to heal. There's so much love and growth and pain in this story. I should probably just give it 5 stars, because I think I do actually love it, but I know that I won't revisit it like I have the other installments so I'm sticking with the 4. It is a great story, very well written, though and the series as a whole I do completely love.
I've dealt with religious zealots in real life, so parts of this were a hard read and keep me from absolutely loving it. Without giving spoilers, I'll just say that the scenes with Noah's parents are very realistic and even their extreme actions are similar to real life cases. I felt so much for both Noah and Oscar in how Noah's past as a Witness came back to haunt them in this. I was definitely on the side of Oscar, but I'm empathetic to how it would be for Noah to escape that conditioning.
All that aside, the love and message of love in this book is beautiful. The family and home that Noah and Oscar have built is beautiful. For a good portion of this story, I marveled at how Oscar had grown and matured from the first book. Then Noah's parents arrived and we got our lovable troll back. Most of the time it wasn't helpful, but I totally got why Oscar fell back into that antagonistic mode. I have all three parts of the series and this is really a wonderful way to conclude their love story. Yes, there are some dramatic tropes that I often drag other books for having, but they made sense to me in this story. As is the case in many real life scenarios like Noah's, it takes traumatic events to fully sever yourself from that kind of past to truly move forward. Sometimes breaking the bone again is the only way to get it to heal. There's so much love and growth and pain in this story. I should probably just give it 5 stars, because I think I do actually love it, but I know that I won't revisit it like I have the other installments so I'm sticking with the 4. It is a great story, very well written, though and the series as a whole I do completely love.
September 26, 2020
📚🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧📚
Narrator: Michael T Bradley
Overall: 4.5 Stars
Narrator: 4.5 Stars
Story: 4.5 Stars
Man, I’ve missed Oscar. He’s no longer a troll, but he is still the same negative, pulls no punches, grouch with the biggest heart, that we’ve come to know and love. He had THE best lines in the book, hands down. He just gives me a constant case of the goofy grins. He is the perfect man to balance out Noah’s timidness.
This story was more centered on Noah. His parents put him through the ringer before he was old enough to get away from them. It has had lasting effects, too. He is struggling with fear and worrying, and it’s been magnified after becoming a parent. A tragic situation with his sister brings his parents back into the picture. It’s a recipe for catastrophe. I love how Oscar is with Noah. They have a beautiful relationship, and it’s heartwarming to read.
I really enjoyed this sequel to The Troll Whisperer. I was excited when I saw it. I was pleasantly surprised by the first book, and Oscar the Grouch weaseled his way into my reader’s heart. I feel like it was well written, and true to the characters. Fear can cause all kinds of irrational thoughts and anxiety. This was Noah journey to overcoming his fears and embracing his inner strength.
Michael T Bradley was the perfect choice for this series. His voices for Oscar and Noah are spot on, in my opinion. I can’t imagine anyone else portraying them. He did a wonderful job bringing this book to life.
Narrator: Michael T Bradley
Overall: 4.5 Stars
Narrator: 4.5 Stars
Story: 4.5 Stars
Man, I’ve missed Oscar. He’s no longer a troll, but he is still the same negative, pulls no punches, grouch with the biggest heart, that we’ve come to know and love. He had THE best lines in the book, hands down. He just gives me a constant case of the goofy grins. He is the perfect man to balance out Noah’s timidness.
This story was more centered on Noah. His parents put him through the ringer before he was old enough to get away from them. It has had lasting effects, too. He is struggling with fear and worrying, and it’s been magnified after becoming a parent. A tragic situation with his sister brings his parents back into the picture. It’s a recipe for catastrophe. I love how Oscar is with Noah. They have a beautiful relationship, and it’s heartwarming to read.
I really enjoyed this sequel to The Troll Whisperer. I was excited when I saw it. I was pleasantly surprised by the first book, and Oscar the Grouch weaseled his way into my reader’s heart. I feel like it was well written, and true to the characters. Fear can cause all kinds of irrational thoughts and anxiety. This was Noah journey to overcoming his fears and embracing his inner strength.
Michael T Bradley was the perfect choice for this series. His voices for Oscar and Noah are spot on, in my opinion. I can’t imagine anyone else portraying them. He did a wonderful job bringing this book to life.
September 18, 2020
I thought this was just ok. I definitely liked the first book better. Watching Oscar conquer his demons in order to become a better person for Noah felt more real, more human, than this go-around. From the blurb, I was waiting for that moment when Noah had his epiphany and developed a backbone, but it seemed like that moment never came. The first book had a lot of humor behind it, but this one was just rather melodramatic. The whole episode with Mexico and the Noah’s batshit-crazy parents dragged the story down. And that ending? Oscar and Noah clearly deserve a clear, unambiguous HEA; not this bittersweet mood killer.
Oh, and I’m a bit confused about Settle Down being labeled as The Troll Whisperer, Book 2. After I read The Troll Whisperer (Book 1), I downloaded and read (and still have in my library) The Pink Wedding, the short story of Noah’s and Oscar’s wedding, during which we are introduced to Noah’s sister Rebekkah. The cover of that story labels that as Book 2. But the strange thing is, you can find The Pink Wedding anywhere. Even when I click on “Book Detail” it says it is not available. So what happened to it? I’m already a bit pissy over Consorting With Dragons and Shadow on the Sun each having been “expanded” and I have to repurchase them if I want to reread with the changes. So I’m wondering if this author has some problem with writing a good story and sticking with it!
Oh, and I’m a bit confused about Settle Down being labeled as The Troll Whisperer, Book 2. After I read The Troll Whisperer (Book 1), I downloaded and read (and still have in my library) The Pink Wedding, the short story of Noah’s and Oscar’s wedding, during which we are introduced to Noah’s sister Rebekkah. The cover of that story labels that as Book 2. But the strange thing is, you can find The Pink Wedding anywhere. Even when I click on “Book Detail” it says it is not available. So what happened to it? I’m already a bit pissy over Consorting With Dragons and Shadow on the Sun each having been “expanded” and I have to repurchase them if I want to reread with the changes. So I’m wondering if this author has some problem with writing a good story and sticking with it!
September 18, 2020
Settle Down is the sequel to The Troll Whisperer and really should be read after reading the first book; however, it does work well as a standalone. The main themes of this contemporary romance are family and acceptance.
Oscar and Noah have been happily married for years and are new fathers to their infant daughter, Betty. However, a family tragedy has Noah reaching out to his bigoted parents—a mistake that will have devastating consequences. But don’t worry! Just like any good romance, this one does have a happy ending.
This book is told from Noah’s point of view, the same way the Troll Whisperer had been told from Oscar’s point of view, and we really get a deep look at all the insecurities and trauma Noah has from his upbringing. There are some really dramatic and crazy moments, but the book has a satisfying happy ending that I thought was well done. I really enjoyed this book and finished it in one day. The pace of the plot was fast but never felt rushed, and there was a lot of character development. I absolutely love Oscar’s family and the relationship between Noah and Oscar is wonderful.
The audiobook was narrated by Michael T. Bradley who did a great job. The voices he choose for each character were perfect and consistent. I had no trouble following along with the story. Plus, he infused a lot of energy into his performance and that made the audiobook just as exciting as the story. I highly recommend it.
Oscar and Noah have been happily married for years and are new fathers to their infant daughter, Betty. However, a family tragedy has Noah reaching out to his bigoted parents—a mistake that will have devastating consequences. But don’t worry! Just like any good romance, this one does have a happy ending.
This book is told from Noah’s point of view, the same way the Troll Whisperer had been told from Oscar’s point of view, and we really get a deep look at all the insecurities and trauma Noah has from his upbringing. There are some really dramatic and crazy moments, but the book has a satisfying happy ending that I thought was well done. I really enjoyed this book and finished it in one day. The pace of the plot was fast but never felt rushed, and there was a lot of character development. I absolutely love Oscar’s family and the relationship between Noah and Oscar is wonderful.
The audiobook was narrated by Michael T. Bradley who did a great job. The voices he choose for each character were perfect and consistent. I had no trouble following along with the story. Plus, he infused a lot of energy into his performance and that made the audiobook just as exciting as the story. I highly recommend it.
April 8, 2020
🌈Lovely, sweet family drama: even better than the first!😍
👬👶💕If you are a fan of sweet romance and cozy family times, with more than a touch of drama, this book is all that and more! I really liked Oscar and Noah's early connection and heated romance in The Troll Whisperer, but this sweet sequel I enjoyed even better. Both books (as well as the short Pink Wedding that, if you can find it, comes between) are really well written.
The family dynamics dominate here, and all revolving around a sweet baby girl named Bette and Noah's troubled sister Becca. With a medical crisis, malevolent blasts from Noah's Jehovah's Witness past, a man hunt and some international skullduggery, this story had excitement and a lot of tense moments but the couple's strong and loving relationship comes through time and again. And little Bette is Definitively a California girl what with all the avocados she consumes (and smears about every chance she gets😀)!
Lastly, I really liked the conclusion. It's not a cliffhanger, but it very realistically does not tie everything up in a happy, all-ends-perfect bow. There are winners and losers in this novel, and one major character with a score to be determined. But the overall impression I was left with: love and family support won the day!😌
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
👬👶💕If you are a fan of sweet romance and cozy family times, with more than a touch of drama, this book is all that and more! I really liked Oscar and Noah's early connection and heated romance in The Troll Whisperer, but this sweet sequel I enjoyed even better. Both books (as well as the short Pink Wedding that, if you can find it, comes between) are really well written.
The family dynamics dominate here, and all revolving around a sweet baby girl named Bette and Noah's troubled sister Becca. With a medical crisis, malevolent blasts from Noah's Jehovah's Witness past, a man hunt and some international skullduggery, this story had excitement and a lot of tense moments but the couple's strong and loving relationship comes through time and again. And little Bette is Definitively a California girl what with all the avocados she consumes (and smears about every chance she gets😀)!
Lastly, I really liked the conclusion. It's not a cliffhanger, but it very realistically does not tie everything up in a happy, all-ends-perfect bow. There are winners and losers in this novel, and one major character with a score to be determined. But the overall impression I was left with: love and family support won the day!😌
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 15, 2020
Audiobook review:
Overall – 5
Story – 5
Performance – 5
Not at all what I expected!
I have to be honest; I did not read the blurb for this book. I wanted to listen to it simply because it was the sequel to The Troll Whisperer. That was a story I had a hard time getting into but ended up liking a lot. While this is a sequel, set five years after The Troll Whisperer, I actually think it stands alone pretty well. However, for all of the background on Oscar and Noah I do recommend reading The Troll Whisperer first.
So, since didn't read the blurb I didn't really know what to expect and boy was I shocked – but in a good way. This story kept me engaged right from the start, grabbed hold and didn't let me go. My heart was pounding so hard in places I got a little bit worried (OK, not really, but it was very tense). I listened to this from beginning to end in one session.
If you read The Troll Whisperer, you already know some of the background on Noah's family but I never thought they would turn out to be as evil as they did in this book. A word of warning, if you are a Jehovah's Witness you won't want to read or listen to this book. Thank goodness I am not and I f*ing loved it!!
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
Overall – 5
Story – 5
Performance – 5
Not at all what I expected!
I have to be honest; I did not read the blurb for this book. I wanted to listen to it simply because it was the sequel to The Troll Whisperer. That was a story I had a hard time getting into but ended up liking a lot. While this is a sequel, set five years after The Troll Whisperer, I actually think it stands alone pretty well. However, for all of the background on Oscar and Noah I do recommend reading The Troll Whisperer first.
So, since didn't read the blurb I didn't really know what to expect and boy was I shocked – but in a good way. This story kept me engaged right from the start, grabbed hold and didn't let me go. My heart was pounding so hard in places I got a little bit worried (OK, not really, but it was very tense). I listened to this from beginning to end in one session.
If you read The Troll Whisperer, you already know some of the background on Noah's family but I never thought they would turn out to be as evil as they did in this book. A word of warning, if you are a Jehovah's Witness you won't want to read or listen to this book. Thank goodness I am not and I f*ing loved it!!
A complimentary copy of this audiobook was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author and/or narrator.
September 14, 2020
Wow, I wasn't expecting the twists and turns in this book.
Settle Down
The Troll Whisperer, Book 2
By: Sera Trevor
Narrated by: Michael T Bradley
Series: The Troll Whisperer, Book 2
Length: 5 hrs and 28 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.05 speed on Audible.
This is my first book by Sera, and I wasn't sure what to expect. I didn't read the blurb, straight in to the book.
I struggled a little with the narrator but I think that's because I'm from England and he had an American accents that was hard sometime.
The story is lovely, but also tragic, with lots of heartache, abuse and religion. My heart was all over the place reading this.
It ends in a partial Happy ending. I wish I could say more but I don't want to put any spoilers out there.
Great characters, great story I listened straight the way through and I started at 10.30pm. So yes it late now. But I needed to finish it.
Settle Down
The Troll Whisperer, Book 2
By: Sera Trevor
Narrated by: Michael T Bradley
Series: The Troll Whisperer, Book 2
Length: 5 hrs and 28 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.05 speed on Audible.
This is my first book by Sera, and I wasn't sure what to expect. I didn't read the blurb, straight in to the book.
I struggled a little with the narrator but I think that's because I'm from England and he had an American accents that was hard sometime.
The story is lovely, but also tragic, with lots of heartache, abuse and religion. My heart was all over the place reading this.
It ends in a partial Happy ending. I wish I could say more but I don't want to put any spoilers out there.
Great characters, great story I listened straight the way through and I started at 10.30pm. So yes it late now. But I needed to finish it.
September 19, 2020
Settle Down is a book about family dynamics. I wouldn't call it a romantic story, as that must have happened in the first book. (The Troll Whisperer is on my TBR pile and I think reading it first would give more emotion to reading this book.) I liked this story fine because it was a different kind of read, since it was following an established couple. It is single POV through Noah's eyes. He is trying to work through his emotional baggage and be a new dad to their baby. There is a lot of family support on Oscar's side of the family and I enjoyed the strength that they tried to provide for Noah. I listened to the audio version and the narration was good and I appreciated the different voices that were given to the variety of characters, even though I wasn't fond of Noah's voice. I think the book could be listened to as a stand alone, but I believe it would be better enjoyed after the first book. (3.5 stars)
April 30, 2022
For some reason I never read the first book, so I didn't see them come together as a couple. There are also shorts in between that I need to go back & read as well. We have Oscar, who is a bit of a hot head, and Noah, who is carrying a lot of guilt for leaving the Jehovah Witness, are expecting their child. Also, we have Noah's sister who has left & he is trying to reconnect with her. There is a bit of drama when his sister becomes sick & he contacts his parents. I don't understand why someone who leaves is subject to abuse. Members should have the right to make a choice. With the help of Oscar, his family & their friends, we get to see Noah finally come to terms with his past. Overall a very quick sweet read, if you overlook the drama. I will be going back & read the 1st book & the shorts
April 13, 2020
I jumped into this one right after finishing The Troll Whisper. It was just as engaging, well written, and enjoyable, but man - I was not quite ready!
The first book certainly deals with some heavy subject matter, but it mostly retains a snarky sense of humour, thanks to being mostly from Oscar's perspective. This time, we're in Noah's head, as he deals with being reunited with his family, estranged after he left the Jehovah's Witnesses.
This is a far heavier, more emotional book. I struggled in moments to read without tears, and while I still loved it, I felt awful for Noah's character and what he was going through.
This is an incredibly emotional work, and it is done with empathy and compassion for the experience of a gay man who grew up in a homophobia religious family.
The first book certainly deals with some heavy subject matter, but it mostly retains a snarky sense of humour, thanks to being mostly from Oscar's perspective. This time, we're in Noah's head, as he deals with being reunited with his family, estranged after he left the Jehovah's Witnesses.
This is a far heavier, more emotional book. I struggled in moments to read without tears, and while I still loved it, I felt awful for Noah's character and what he was going through.
This is an incredibly emotional work, and it is done with empathy and compassion for the experience of a gay man who grew up in a homophobia religious family.
May 13, 2020
This started off rather calm, almost too calm, I was beginning to think it was getting a teensy bit boring, but then flipping hell broke out and things went crazy. Lots of drama, sadness, and violence. This was a follow up to another wonderful book, The Troll Whisperer, and it was a worthy companion. The same mc’s return, Oscar and Noah, but the emphasis was a little more on Noah this time while the first book was more about Oscar. I must have a little gripe about the cover though, so many times covers annoy me, do the artists never know what the characters look like? Although not described in this book Oscar was described in the first book as kind of big and muscley, do either of the the two men on the Kindle cover look ripped??? Anyway, great book, highly recommend.
April 7, 2020
I proofread a beta copy of this MM romance and drama. It’s an emotional rollercoaster. Even after having skimmed to the end and knowing how things ultimately turn out, on my second pass parts were still upsetting or uplifting. The most rewarding elements to me were the joys of parenthood, and Oscar’s completely supportive family.
It deals quite a bit with the psychological damage that can be done by strict or uncaring parents, and a cult that values the afterlife above present-day Earth and individual needs.
There are several Mexican foods mentioned, so don’t read this while hungry ☺.
It deals quite a bit with the psychological damage that can be done by strict or uncaring parents, and a cult that values the afterlife above present-day Earth and individual needs.
There are several Mexican foods mentioned, so don’t read this while hungry ☺.
April 24, 2020
After reading the first book on this series, I'd never expect a continuation like this with a complex plot, involving religion, intolerance, a kidnap and even dangerous situations. Of course, as they overcame all these obstacles, we witnessed just how strong and powerful is the love between Oscar and Noah. Above all, this story is simply a wonderful and unique love story. I can't wait to read more books written by this incredible author.
April 24, 2020
This was a wonderful followup to the previous book The Troll Whisperer.
Oscar and Noah are settled in their relationship with a beautiful little girl when suddenly tragedy strikes and poor Noah is dragged back into the horrible clutches of his family.
There was drama, suspense, action and intrigue.
I loved seeing Noah finally standing up to his family for closure and of course Oscar was absolutely supportive.
Oscar and Noah are settled in their relationship with a beautiful little girl when suddenly tragedy strikes and poor Noah is dragged back into the horrible clutches of his family.
There was drama, suspense, action and intrigue.
I loved seeing Noah finally standing up to his family for closure and of course Oscar was absolutely supportive.
April 24, 2020
This story is more about Noah and his toxic family. Oscar's love and support for Noah will make you fall in love with him. These two have been married for a while with a little girl and are happy until Noah gets a call about his sister. His parents are just terrible human beings but he will stand up to them to save him own family.
What a wonderful conclusion to this story and very emotional. I definitely recommend this book!
What a wonderful conclusion to this story and very emotional. I definitely recommend this book!
September 17, 2020
I wanted so hard to love this, but I couldn’t figure out how Oscar ended up married to Noah. Noah was genuine and just sooo nice! Oscar seemed like a deep seated jerk. Noah’s parents were awful. Some of the things that were said were horrific. I admit I didn’t read the first book in the series, but I can’t imagine there would be anything there that would endear me to Oscar.
It was a bit disappointing for me, but if you enjoy the characters and the series, you’ll probably enjoy this listen.
It was a bit disappointing for me, but if you enjoy the characters and the series, you’ll probably enjoy this listen.
April 7, 2020
A very emotional book that deals with overcoming your past, religious and abusive parents, drugs, being yourself and sticking up to what you believe in. Oscar and Noah are back in book two. They are having a baby but they are dealing with other ups and downs in their relationship. The book is sweet at times, a lot of angst, and I enjoyed it.
April 16, 2020
I think this would have been so much better if I could have read The Pink Wedding, but apparently that isn’t available anymore, as some sort of context in the 7 years since The Troll Whisperer would have been nice. It was an alright story and as in the first book there is drama that while it causes a rift is settled quite quickly. I think the drama with Noah’s parents was drug out more than it needed to be and I hated to see Noah struggling but was glad Oscar was able to be the strong one this time.
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review.
April 17, 2020
I thought I read their happily ever after, but Noah and Oscar have more to tell. Now on domestic bliss, they share a mature love. Noah is a nurse and Oscar has mostly changed his ways. One tarot card read as amusement turns into Noah’s reality. A nightmare no one wants to live. But with Oscar and the Lozada family by his side, he can overcome anything. This book is more about Noah and I loved it.
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