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Food Truck Warriors #2
Hit the Brakes
Can they fake it til Tate makes it?
Tate Ward is in a bind. His food truck hasn’t been the runaway success he’d always dreamt it would be. When he tries to join a new food truck collective to gain a larger following, his sales aren’t even high enough to win a spot. What he needs is a high profile endorsement—and he knows just the guy.
Tate hasn’t seen Chase Riley since high school. It’s been ten long years of watching from a distance as Chase conquers football fields and fan’s hearts.
Tate never wanted Chase to know that he had the world’s stupidest crush on him, because he always believed Chase was straight.
But desperate times call for desperate measures . . .
When Chase offers a tempting plan that could fulfill all his dreams, Tate knows he can’t say no. All he has to do is pretend that his very real feelings are actually fake.
But faking it with Chase, while leading to wild success and even wilder nights, is everything that Tate feared it would be. All it’s done is leave him wanting the impossible: Chase’s heart.
A Fake Boyfriend Food Truck Romance
Tate Ward is in a bind. His food truck hasn’t been the runaway success he’d always dreamt it would be. When he tries to join a new food truck collective to gain a larger following, his sales aren’t even high enough to win a spot. What he needs is a high profile endorsement—and he knows just the guy.
Tate hasn’t seen Chase Riley since high school. It’s been ten long years of watching from a distance as Chase conquers football fields and fan’s hearts.
Tate never wanted Chase to know that he had the world’s stupidest crush on him, because he always believed Chase was straight.
But desperate times call for desperate measures . . .
When Chase offers a tempting plan that could fulfill all his dreams, Tate knows he can’t say no. All he has to do is pretend that his very real feelings are actually fake.
But faking it with Chase, while leading to wild success and even wilder nights, is everything that Tate feared it would be. All it’s done is leave him wanting the impossible: Chase’s heart.
A Fake Boyfriend Food Truck Romance
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2021
150 people are currently reading
444 people want to read
About the author
Beth Bolden
76 books698 followersA lifelong Oregonian, Beth Bolden has just recently moved to North Carolina with her supportive husband and their sweet kitten, Earl Grey. Beth still believes in Keeping Portland Weird, and intends to be just as weird in Raleigh.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
March 18, 2021
I read this book so long ago as I beta read it for Beth but it's still as clear as day to me.
It fits perfectly into Beth's wider universe for any reader who is familiar with the rest of her books.
But it's also a good standalone for those who don't know who Colin O'Connor is (foolish people, he's the best, go read Rainbow Clause immediately! 🥰 ) as he makes a special guest appearance.
And if you haven't read Wyatt/Ryan's Kitchen Gods romance or the other Riptide NFL books there's still enough explanation given to root the narrative for Chase and Tate's romance.
It's a beautiful second chances relationship between two guys who almost kissed in one confused encounter in high school before going their separate ways.
Now 10 years later Chase is an NFL star with the Riptide and Tate is running his food truck and struggling to keep it going.
He has a chance to join the Food Truck Warriors but only if he can demonstrate higher sales
His sister realises superstar Chase is the same guy Tate had a crush on and launches a social media campaign making it sound like he loves their grilled cheese sandwich.
Chase reconnects with Tate but this time he isn't running away. He proposes a "fake boyfriend" scheme to help with Tate's sales and all bets are off.
Their sexual exploration and emotional connection really is on fire and there's loads of humour in this one.
It's probably the funniest so far as Tate fights against his feelings, which are all still just waiting to burst out.
It's not all plain sailing though, Chase has a self-destructive streak which pops up whenever he's under stress and he explodes big time when he's challenged on his motivation for 'coming out' by a fellow gay NFL player.
Apart from Colin and Nick, these two make a great case for beating Heath and Sam into second place as my faves from Beth.
There's just something truly wonderful about people finding love in a place where they almost had it except for circumstances.
The Food Truck Warriors are all utterly brilliant and just wait till you get book three 😉
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
It fits perfectly into Beth's wider universe for any reader who is familiar with the rest of her books.
But it's also a good standalone for those who don't know who Colin O'Connor is (foolish people, he's the best, go read Rainbow Clause immediately! 🥰 ) as he makes a special guest appearance.
And if you haven't read Wyatt/Ryan's Kitchen Gods romance or the other Riptide NFL books there's still enough explanation given to root the narrative for Chase and Tate's romance.
It's a beautiful second chances relationship between two guys who almost kissed in one confused encounter in high school before going their separate ways.
Now 10 years later Chase is an NFL star with the Riptide and Tate is running his food truck and struggling to keep it going.
He has a chance to join the Food Truck Warriors but only if he can demonstrate higher sales
His sister realises superstar Chase is the same guy Tate had a crush on and launches a social media campaign making it sound like he loves their grilled cheese sandwich.
Chase reconnects with Tate but this time he isn't running away. He proposes a "fake boyfriend" scheme to help with Tate's sales and all bets are off.
Their sexual exploration and emotional connection really is on fire and there's loads of humour in this one.
It's probably the funniest so far as Tate fights against his feelings, which are all still just waiting to burst out.
It's not all plain sailing though, Chase has a self-destructive streak which pops up whenever he's under stress and he explodes big time when he's challenged on his motivation for 'coming out' by a fellow gay NFL player.
Apart from Colin and Nick, these two make a great case for beating Heath and Sam into second place as my faves from Beth.
There's just something truly wonderful about people finding love in a place where they almost had it except for circumstances.
The Food Truck Warriors are all utterly brilliant and just wait till you get book three 😉
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
April 8, 2021
This is a great story that I did not want to put down. There is something for everyone to enjoy from humor, witty and realistic dialogue, as well as a captivating story. I delighted in following along on Tate and Chase’s journey to happily-ever-after. I’m looking forward to reading what happens next.
April 8, 2021
Hit the Brakes is a great sports romance by Beth Bolden. Add in that it's the second book in the Food Truck Warriors series, and you can't go wrong. It's easily read as a standalone, but features plenty of men who you'll recognize from her other books.
Chase and Tate went to high school together. They were never super close and a long time has passed since they last talked.
Chase is now a famous NFL football player, while Tate is trying to make his food truck work.
Everything about these two is wonderful. I love that Chase can't forget about the only guy he ever crushed on. I love the high school flirting. And I adore their reunion.
The way things develop for these two is unique and entertaining. It's definitely nothing I predicted. They have to deal with insecurities and doubts, yet not quite as you'd expect. And the obstacles all fit in well.
If you are in the mood for a second chance romance between two men who flirted but never even kissed, you'll love this book.
Their story has a fake boyfriend aspect to it, which of course leads to them dating for real.
God, I just adore both men, their backgrounds, and their journeys. They're both lovable, yet flawed. Both have their own insecurities to deal with. And both have their share of personal growth to achieve. I love it all.
Hit the Brakes is a delightful sports romance. Beth Bolden combines plenty of sweet moments with a hard fought win for love.
Chase and Tate went to high school together. They were never super close and a long time has passed since they last talked.
Chase is now a famous NFL football player, while Tate is trying to make his food truck work.
Everything about these two is wonderful. I love that Chase can't forget about the only guy he ever crushed on. I love the high school flirting. And I adore their reunion.
The way things develop for these two is unique and entertaining. It's definitely nothing I predicted. They have to deal with insecurities and doubts, yet not quite as you'd expect. And the obstacles all fit in well.
If you are in the mood for a second chance romance between two men who flirted but never even kissed, you'll love this book.
Their story has a fake boyfriend aspect to it, which of course leads to them dating for real.
God, I just adore both men, their backgrounds, and their journeys. They're both lovable, yet flawed. Both have their own insecurities to deal with. And both have their share of personal growth to achieve. I love it all.
Hit the Brakes is a delightful sports romance. Beth Bolden combines plenty of sweet moments with a hard fought win for love.
June 9, 2021
Rep: bi mc, gay mc
October 15, 2021
So many issues
It’s really disappointing because I was interested initially.
It’s a good beginning. They crushed on each other in highschool so the insta love makes more sense. But there are some serious issues.
First off, Chase is a child. He acts like a very large wealthy spoiled brat. He’s supposed to have some kind of mental health issue but the way the author describes it makes it seem like he’s just a spoiled brat who has no self control and does things he clearly knows he shouldn’t just because he’s sad. Whatever.
This could have been a really good glimpse into what it’s like living with mental health issues and how people can learn to thrive anyway but why take the high road? Let’s just make him a whiney baby and then try to back up and make excuses for it 🙄
Also, Tate had every reason to say hey I can’t do this because chase wasn’t honest with him about his mental health struggles. I could see Tate coming around though and accepting that Chase had some short comings and they could work on them together. But no. Everyone starts saying it’s because Tate isn’t sure he can handle things playing out so publicly because Chase is famous? Where the fuck did that come from???????? Neither lead character EVER said anything about that. It was just stupid.
And the ending? OMG it’s just stupid. So incredibly sappy and barf inducing. Like really? What happened to the story? It started out like there was a plan but the dog musta ate it cause this book went way off the rails.
It’s really disappointing because I was interested initially.
It’s a good beginning. They crushed on each other in highschool so the insta love makes more sense. But there are some serious issues.
First off, Chase is a child. He acts like a very large wealthy spoiled brat. He’s supposed to have some kind of mental health issue but the way the author describes it makes it seem like he’s just a spoiled brat who has no self control and does things he clearly knows he shouldn’t just because he’s sad. Whatever.
This could have been a really good glimpse into what it’s like living with mental health issues and how people can learn to thrive anyway but why take the high road? Let’s just make him a whiney baby and then try to back up and make excuses for it 🙄
Also, Tate had every reason to say hey I can’t do this because chase wasn’t honest with him about his mental health struggles. I could see Tate coming around though and accepting that Chase had some short comings and they could work on them together. But no. Everyone starts saying it’s because Tate isn’t sure he can handle things playing out so publicly because Chase is famous? Where the fuck did that come from???????? Neither lead character EVER said anything about that. It was just stupid.
And the ending? OMG it’s just stupid. So incredibly sappy and barf inducing. Like really? What happened to the story? It started out like there was a plan but the dog musta ate it cause this book went way off the rails.
April 30, 2021
If the "high school crush", celebrity boyfriend" and "second chance romance" tropes had a baby, it'd be this book. It ix a perfect, appealing mix of all three. A chill, no stress book that I did enjoy a lot.
April 7, 2021
*4.5*
Hit the Brakes is an enjoyable second book in Beth Bolden's Food Truck Warriors series.
Tate and Chase were paired up in high-school for home economics and then went their separate ways for college and adult life. That one semester stayed on both of their minds though and one tweet from Tate about Chase liking his food truck's food reunites them under slightly odd circumstances. Of course, Chase being a famous wide receiver for The Riptides has a much bigger impact that even Tate was expecting. What follows is a crazy mix of fake relationship, coming out, and old crushes becoming so much more.
Tate works hard with his sister to keep their food truck, Say Cheese, going and the boost they get from Chase's involvement is insane but so worth it for that but also getting to reconnect with his high-school crush. He's totally followed Chase over the years and it's sweet how obvious it is to everyone how much he likes him. Although, when their friends see the two men together, they can all tell how much the two like each other. It's just them that stick to the fake relationship ruse that Chase turned into a thing with one tweet on social media.
Bless Chase, my heart went out to him with the moments that he's clearly struggled. He has a great support system of his friends and agent but what he really wants, is Tate. Getting closer to the other man and experiencing everything he's ever wanted since he was a teenager, makes him so happy but comments from others and a possible wrench in the works regarding his career drives him to make a mistake that may bring it all crashing down.
The coupe are really good together, a lot of sweet and fun moments mixed in with some hot ones that they've both been waiting years for. I really liked the added aspect regarding mental health, how it can affect anyone and the support available for those who need it.
This was a really enjoyable story and I loved the MC's and the side characters that come across from other Beth Bolden series. It's great how they all link up and bring all of the characters together. Again, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Hit the Brakes is an enjoyable second book in Beth Bolden's Food Truck Warriors series.
Tate and Chase were paired up in high-school for home economics and then went their separate ways for college and adult life. That one semester stayed on both of their minds though and one tweet from Tate about Chase liking his food truck's food reunites them under slightly odd circumstances. Of course, Chase being a famous wide receiver for The Riptides has a much bigger impact that even Tate was expecting. What follows is a crazy mix of fake relationship, coming out, and old crushes becoming so much more.
Tate works hard with his sister to keep their food truck, Say Cheese, going and the boost they get from Chase's involvement is insane but so worth it for that but also getting to reconnect with his high-school crush. He's totally followed Chase over the years and it's sweet how obvious it is to everyone how much he likes him. Although, when their friends see the two men together, they can all tell how much the two like each other. It's just them that stick to the fake relationship ruse that Chase turned into a thing with one tweet on social media.
Bless Chase, my heart went out to him with the moments that he's clearly struggled. He has a great support system of his friends and agent but what he really wants, is Tate. Getting closer to the other man and experiencing everything he's ever wanted since he was a teenager, makes him so happy but comments from others and a possible wrench in the works regarding his career drives him to make a mistake that may bring it all crashing down.
The coupe are really good together, a lot of sweet and fun moments mixed in with some hot ones that they've both been waiting years for. I really liked the added aspect regarding mental health, how it can affect anyone and the support available for those who need it.
This was a really enjoyable story and I loved the MC's and the side characters that come across from other Beth Bolden series. It's great how they all link up and bring all of the characters together. Again, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
April 10, 2021
Note: An ARC was provided by Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews.
Ooh! I quite enjoyed this second Food Truck Warriors book! I liked the first one, Drive Me Crazy, but Beth Bolden has amped things up with Hit the Brakes. Funnily enough, the fake relationship trope isn't one of my go-tos, but Bolden did a great job making me cheer the main characters, Tate and Chase, on to their happily-ever-after. The connection between these two was undeniably ever-present, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing them go from fake to real (although if we're being honest here, those feelings were real before they had to fake it!). I've read the Kitchen Gods series and Riptide books, so the bonus of touching base with familiar characters was there for me. That being said, you'll still be able to fully enjoy this new book even if you've never read those previous ones, which is another plus for this book. All in all, Hit the Brakes was a great way to spend my time off, which is why it gets 4.5 stars.
Ooh! I quite enjoyed this second Food Truck Warriors book! I liked the first one, Drive Me Crazy, but Beth Bolden has amped things up with Hit the Brakes. Funnily enough, the fake relationship trope isn't one of my go-tos, but Bolden did a great job making me cheer the main characters, Tate and Chase, on to their happily-ever-after. The connection between these two was undeniably ever-present, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing them go from fake to real (although if we're being honest here, those feelings were real before they had to fake it!). I've read the Kitchen Gods series and Riptide books, so the bonus of touching base with familiar characters was there for me. That being said, you'll still be able to fully enjoy this new book even if you've never read those previous ones, which is another plus for this book. All in all, Hit the Brakes was a great way to spend my time off, which is why it gets 4.5 stars.
March 27, 2021
Hit the Brakes was sweet and steamy, about childhood crushes turned fake boyfriends. Chase is a sweetheart and always has good intentions, but can be impulsive and struggles with his emotions. Tate hides his insecurities by being kind of rude and pushing people away it seems. His surly attitude bugged me. He eventually won me over, though, and definitely didn't have to do anything to win Chase over. They both carried a torch for years. I like how this story also focused on how important it is to accept yourself and work on your struggles, not just having the one you love magically fix everything.
April 11, 2021
Hit the Brakes is the second book in the Food Truck Warriors series, but you can read as a standalone. This is sort of a mashup of a sports romance and the unique food truck premise. Chase and Tate have known each other since high school where they flirted a bit but never really progressed beyond crushing and pining. Now Chase is now a famous NFL football player. Tate hasn’t quite been as successful with his career so far as he is struggling with his food truck business. This is sort of a second chance romance and sort of a fake boyfriend dynamic here as well. So some great tropes at work but none of them are what you’d expect. I liked that these two men, who are well written, multifaceted characters, develop their romance in an usual, unexpected way. Very enjoyable read with a refreshingly different storyline.
April 12, 2021
I love Chase. Big, blonde, protector of gay football players. Tate is intense and a master of grilled cheese. Together, they are so very hot.
I love how Chase embraces the other part of himself once he gets a chance. I think the most important part of the book is when he encouraged others to seek mental health treatment, and even paid for it. That’s a message that needs to be spread.
I’ve loved Beth’s books, and this one is one of the best. Thank you, Beth!
I love how Chase embraces the other part of himself once he gets a chance. I think the most important part of the book is when he encouraged others to seek mental health treatment, and even paid for it. That’s a message that needs to be spread.
I’ve loved Beth’s books, and this one is one of the best. Thank you, Beth!
April 9, 2021
A special story that show not all people who you think have it all is okay with their lives. I fell for Chase and his struggles and how he needed help and found himself. Tate was a sweetheart and having a crush for so long. This was a brilliant story of finding out each others problems and helping each other face it.
April 10, 2021
Another amazing story by Beth Bolden. I absolutely love Chase and Tate! They are so sweet and I love their story so much. This is such an amazing fake relationship story with some second chance at love for these high school crushes. I just love this story so much. I can't for the next book in this amazing world.
January 14, 2024
Second in a series
Grilled cheese and football, Bolden's MCs have a long history of longing and a short term of heated passion. Bringing the Riptide cast in to broaden the stage, the human-ness of these men, their joys, passion, angst, mistakes and kisses lend to a charming tale.
Grilled cheese and football, Bolden's MCs have a long history of longing and a short term of heated passion. Bringing the Riptide cast in to broaden the stage, the human-ness of these men, their joys, passion, angst, mistakes and kisses lend to a charming tale.
April 13, 2021
After reading the first book in this series, I knew I had to read book two. Now, you can read this as a standalone, but the first book is really good and this is a great continuation and flow from one to the next. Great characters, a wonderful plot, and an amazing story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book from one page to the next, and I highly suggest you get it for yourself. 4.5 stars. Trust me when I say, you won't be disappointed.
May 9, 2021
3.5 ⭐
April 10, 2021
Tate and Chase came back together at just the right time. It was nice to see them get the chance to see each other again and find what they always wanted. I hated seeing how much Chase talked down to himself but was glad that he finally had the perfect reason to actually work at it. Tate had his own insecurities to work through but they found they were stronger together.
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
August 27, 2021
I liked that there was a lot of mental health awareness in this but wish Chase would have started figuring his shit out a bit sooner
April 9, 2021
I loved Hit the Brakes, I ate that book up. I love a book with chefs and this met that for sure. I thought Tate and Chase were adorable, everything they did was sweet or funny. I loved the pace of the book, great dialogue and it was super hot & sexy. I liked all the characters from Beth Bolden’s books including Food Truck Warriors series. I definitely recommend this book.
March 23, 2021
Two men who shared a class in High School reconnect 10 years later and what a reunion it is.
Tate and Chase are both very likeable characters who are realistic, flawed and have huge amounts of chemistry between them. Circumstances lead them into a fake boyfriends relationship and when that morphs into friends with benefits things really heat up. There’s a few feels, a bit of angst and drama in this well written, engaging story but Tate and Chase eventually find their way to a HEA.
Many of the side characters are from other books within this wider universe, which I’ve not read, but this can be read as a standalone.
Tate and Chase are both very likeable characters who are realistic, flawed and have huge amounts of chemistry between them. Circumstances lead them into a fake boyfriends relationship and when that morphs into friends with benefits things really heat up. There’s a few feels, a bit of angst and drama in this well written, engaging story but Tate and Chase eventually find their way to a HEA.
Many of the side characters are from other books within this wider universe, which I’ve not read, but this can be read as a standalone.
April 25, 2021
Too Much
The angst is over the top in this one and it doesn’t make it a better story, unfortunately. The initial meeting and connection was appealing. Reconnecting after 10 years of yearning also had appeal. But the back-and-forth, does he/doesn’t he, was too much and I was finished before the story actually reached the ending.
The angst is over the top in this one and it doesn’t make it a better story, unfortunately. The initial meeting and connection was appealing. Reconnecting after 10 years of yearning also had appeal. But the back-and-forth, does he/doesn’t he, was too much and I was finished before the story actually reached the ending.
November 2, 2022
DNF @ 39%
This started out well, relatively speaking, but got less believable as it progressed. While it was easy to understand Tate, as the story was told from his perspective, Chase was harder to understand and his actions were less believable
This started out well, relatively speaking, but got less believable as it progressed. While it was easy to understand Tate, as the story was told from his perspective, Chase was harder to understand and his actions were less believable
April 9, 2021
I'll admit that I was a little skeptical about the premise of this story, but Tate and Chase were too adorable to resist. Their romance wasn't the most conventional, but I could tell that their hearts were absolutely in the right place the entire time.
Seeing the sparks of attraction Tate and Chase had in high school was a fantastic way to set up their future reunion. Even though their adolescent flirting never went anywhere, I could tell there was some serious chemistry waiting to be unleashed. It does feel a bit miraculous that a single semester was enough to ignite a decade's worth of longing, but I can't deny that it's so freaking cute to think that Tate and Chase were waiting for each other the entire time they were apart. Ten years later, these men were different in a lot of ways, but that only made it sweeter to see them rekindle their affections.
Based on my experience in the previous books, I was not expecting to like Chase in this story. His attitude was carefree to the point of being flippant, and some of the stunts he pulled made no sense to me. Seeing the man behind the goofball mask was surprising and gave me a lot more respect for him as a character. Chase is the perfect example of a guy who seems to have his life in order but is struggling behind the scenes to keep his emotions in check. Seeing his genuine regret for his outlandish behavior and how earnestly he sought help for himself made it hard not to fall in love with him. Yes, in this story Chase did make some disastrously impulsive decisions, but instead of annoying me I felt even more invested in seeing Chase dig himself out of the hole he made for himself.
The instant Chase stepped out of his car and back into Tate's life, I knew the two of them would never be the same. I was prepared to see them trip all over themselves in their haste to hide their feelings from each other, but I was totally not expecting how swoony their love could get. Tate and Chase knocked my legs right out from under me with their sweet-talking, and don't even get me started on how incredible they were between the sheets. How the two of them convinced themselves they weren't in love for as long as they did is a mystery to me, because their connection was as bright as the sun.
As much as I was consumed by the physical side of their relationship, what melted my heart even more was seeing Tate and Chase open up to each other emotionally. I won't lie and say it was easy for the two of them to confess their secrets to one another, because it wasn't, but the fact that they did it anyway showed me how much they truly cared for each other. That's why it hurt so much to see Tate and Chase fall apart after a particularly out-of-control emotional spiral. Yes, it was a catalyst that Chase desperately needed to make a lasting change, but that didn't make my heart hurt any less while the two of them were apart.
At the end of the day, Chase and Tate chose to be together, chose to love each other exactly as they were. Love didn't magically fix either of their problems--only hard work, time, and patience could do that--but it did put everything else into perspective. Seeing how happy the two of them were in that epilogue left me with no doubt in my mind about how lasting their relationship will be.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
Seeing the sparks of attraction Tate and Chase had in high school was a fantastic way to set up their future reunion. Even though their adolescent flirting never went anywhere, I could tell there was some serious chemistry waiting to be unleashed. It does feel a bit miraculous that a single semester was enough to ignite a decade's worth of longing, but I can't deny that it's so freaking cute to think that Tate and Chase were waiting for each other the entire time they were apart. Ten years later, these men were different in a lot of ways, but that only made it sweeter to see them rekindle their affections.
Based on my experience in the previous books, I was not expecting to like Chase in this story. His attitude was carefree to the point of being flippant, and some of the stunts he pulled made no sense to me. Seeing the man behind the goofball mask was surprising and gave me a lot more respect for him as a character. Chase is the perfect example of a guy who seems to have his life in order but is struggling behind the scenes to keep his emotions in check. Seeing his genuine regret for his outlandish behavior and how earnestly he sought help for himself made it hard not to fall in love with him. Yes, in this story Chase did make some disastrously impulsive decisions, but instead of annoying me I felt even more invested in seeing Chase dig himself out of the hole he made for himself.
The instant Chase stepped out of his car and back into Tate's life, I knew the two of them would never be the same. I was prepared to see them trip all over themselves in their haste to hide their feelings from each other, but I was totally not expecting how swoony their love could get. Tate and Chase knocked my legs right out from under me with their sweet-talking, and don't even get me started on how incredible they were between the sheets. How the two of them convinced themselves they weren't in love for as long as they did is a mystery to me, because their connection was as bright as the sun.
As much as I was consumed by the physical side of their relationship, what melted my heart even more was seeing Tate and Chase open up to each other emotionally. I won't lie and say it was easy for the two of them to confess their secrets to one another, because it wasn't, but the fact that they did it anyway showed me how much they truly cared for each other. That's why it hurt so much to see Tate and Chase fall apart after a particularly out-of-control emotional spiral. Yes, it was a catalyst that Chase desperately needed to make a lasting change, but that didn't make my heart hurt any less while the two of them were apart.
At the end of the day, Chase and Tate chose to be together, chose to love each other exactly as they were. Love didn't magically fix either of their problems--only hard work, time, and patience could do that--but it did put everything else into perspective. Seeing how happy the two of them were in that epilogue left me with no doubt in my mind about how lasting their relationship will be.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
March 29, 2021
HIT THE BRAKES by Beth Bolden
I enjoyed this story very much, despite second chance romance not being a favourite trope of mine.
This one was, somehow, totally different in its approach.
I really loved the way the author took two guys who kind of had the hots for each other in high school, but never placed them in any kind of "relationship"... yet (thanks to a really adorable prologue).
This was actually the first book I've read by Beth Bolden, and I was impressed.
This really is a basically sweet romance of grand gestures and hard work to get to where our guys needed to be.
No insta-love here, but also not exactly slow burn.
I found this book to be exceptionally well written (very few editing errors, even for an arc) and well paced with a solid, consistent plot.
The world building is excellent and the characterisation of the Mcs (and side players) spot on. (you'll even learn how to make a perfect grilled cheese sandwich. Lol)
Just a few factors that I didn't love:
*I found it strange that for the duration of the story, the two Mcs never actually address one another by name. I recall, maybe two occasions when they refer to one another by their respective surnames; the rest of the time, they just talk. I loved that the dialogue is lively and realistic, but, for me, it's weirdly disrespectful to never call someone by name.
*Enough with the toys already! I may be in the minority here, but the constant referral to and insistence on sex toys does nothing to enhance an intimate scene. In fact, this pulls me out of the scene every single time.
*I found that the physical descriptions of the Mcs were lacking. We're told, repeatedly that Chase has long hair, but the author never actually gave me a clear picture of what he looks like (except for his height and his sculpted body). The image of Tate is even more obscure.
*Lastly, there were times when I found it hard to imagine the MCs being almost 30. Their self-doubts and insecurities made them seem more like teenagers sometimes.
But, that being said, I couldn't possibly award any less than four stars for this.
This was a fabulous read, a beautiful story, and a well rounded book.
Recommended!
° STANDALONE story featuring side characters from prior books.
° Heat level, around 3 flames for infrequent and moderately explicit adult content and limited profanity.
° Dual pov, third person, past tense. (epilogue included)
° Disclaimer : I received a complementary copy of this title through Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews.
I have voluntarily and willingly read and reviewed this book.
I enjoyed this story very much, despite second chance romance not being a favourite trope of mine.
This one was, somehow, totally different in its approach.
I really loved the way the author took two guys who kind of had the hots for each other in high school, but never placed them in any kind of "relationship"... yet (thanks to a really adorable prologue).
This was actually the first book I've read by Beth Bolden, and I was impressed.
This really is a basically sweet romance of grand gestures and hard work to get to where our guys needed to be.
No insta-love here, but also not exactly slow burn.
I found this book to be exceptionally well written (very few editing errors, even for an arc) and well paced with a solid, consistent plot.
The world building is excellent and the characterisation of the Mcs (and side players) spot on. (you'll even learn how to make a perfect grilled cheese sandwich. Lol)
Just a few factors that I didn't love:
*I found it strange that for the duration of the story, the two Mcs never actually address one another by name. I recall, maybe two occasions when they refer to one another by their respective surnames; the rest of the time, they just talk. I loved that the dialogue is lively and realistic, but, for me, it's weirdly disrespectful to never call someone by name.
*Enough with the toys already! I may be in the minority here, but the constant referral to and insistence on sex toys does nothing to enhance an intimate scene. In fact, this pulls me out of the scene every single time.
*I found that the physical descriptions of the Mcs were lacking. We're told, repeatedly that Chase has long hair, but the author never actually gave me a clear picture of what he looks like (except for his height and his sculpted body). The image of Tate is even more obscure.
*Lastly, there were times when I found it hard to imagine the MCs being almost 30. Their self-doubts and insecurities made them seem more like teenagers sometimes.
But, that being said, I couldn't possibly award any less than four stars for this.
This was a fabulous read, a beautiful story, and a well rounded book.
Recommended!
° STANDALONE story featuring side characters from prior books.
° Heat level, around 3 flames for infrequent and moderately explicit adult content and limited profanity.
° Dual pov, third person, past tense. (epilogue included)
° Disclaimer : I received a complementary copy of this title through Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews.
I have voluntarily and willingly read and reviewed this book.
July 11, 2023
Aww, I really liked Tate when he showed up briefly previously in the series, wanting to be part of Tony's new Food Truck Warriors food truck collective but struggling to make the minimum sales threshold to be invited.
I LOVE a long-term pining romance, and add in that we get to see the amazing chemistry between Tate and Chase in high school, and then they're both secretly hung up on the other TEN YEARS LATER? Yes. Yes please. Want to add on to the drama of ten years of mutual pining? Okay, let's throw some fake dating in there, why not! Only Tate is trying his best to keep Chase at arm's length because he's been obsessed with him for ten years and knows that getting to taste what a real relationship with him could be like and then losing it will destroy him. Meanwhile, it's never really been fake for Chase at all... It's delicious (and I'm not just talking about all the cheesey food truck goodness!)
This book, more than any of the others in the Food Truck Warriors series (so far, I'm not done yet...) really pulled at my heartstrings and at certain points just HURT to read. So much yearning, and I ached for them both just so bad! I especially love Chase, as I felt like I could really relate to some of his mental health and anxiety struggles - especially that feeling of worthlessness that makes you want to say eff it and just burn it all down around you. UGH, I just want to hug Chase SO BAD. Now I need to go read the entire Riptide series so I can see him hanging out as a side character and supporting his queer teammates/besties.
This is the second book in the Food Truck Warriors series, and can be read as a stand-alone. That being said! I'm pretty sure Chase is a side character throughout another series of Beth Bolden's, The Riptide (I haven't read any of them and was able to follow just fine - may be some spoilers in this book for books in this series though.)
Related series: Kitchen Gods, Star Shadow, The Riptide, Food Truck Warriors, Miami Piranhas
...my characters all exist in the same universe, and often cross-over... you can read out of order. Connecting books can be read in order to give a deeper, wider understanding of the universe, but are never necessary.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
I LOVE a long-term pining romance, and add in that we get to see the amazing chemistry between Tate and Chase in high school, and then they're both secretly hung up on the other TEN YEARS LATER? Yes. Yes please. Want to add on to the drama of ten years of mutual pining? Okay, let's throw some fake dating in there, why not! Only Tate is trying his best to keep Chase at arm's length because he's been obsessed with him for ten years and knows that getting to taste what a real relationship with him could be like and then losing it will destroy him. Meanwhile, it's never really been fake for Chase at all... It's delicious (and I'm not just talking about all the cheesey food truck goodness!)
This book, more than any of the others in the Food Truck Warriors series (so far, I'm not done yet...) really pulled at my heartstrings and at certain points just HURT to read. So much yearning, and I ached for them both just so bad! I especially love Chase, as I felt like I could really relate to some of his mental health and anxiety struggles - especially that feeling of worthlessness that makes you want to say eff it and just burn it all down around you. UGH, I just want to hug Chase SO BAD. Now I need to go read the entire Riptide series so I can see him hanging out as a side character and supporting his queer teammates/besties.
This is the second book in the Food Truck Warriors series, and can be read as a stand-alone. That being said! I'm pretty sure Chase is a side character throughout another series of Beth Bolden's, The Riptide (I haven't read any of them and was able to follow just fine - may be some spoilers in this book for books in this series though.)
Related series: Kitchen Gods, Star Shadow, The Riptide, Food Truck Warriors, Miami Piranhas
...my characters all exist in the same universe, and often cross-over... you can read out of order. Connecting books can be read in order to give a deeper, wider understanding of the universe, but are never necessary.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
May 7, 2021
I love the world this novel is set in, and it’s deeply rewarding to see so many characters from the author’s other books. You can read this story completely as a standalone, and all the characters will still be awesome, but having the context of the previous stories just makes it that much better.
There’s something deeply sweet about Chase as a character, and even when he’s being oblivious or making choices he shouldn’t, he’s likeable as heck. It’s easy to want his relationship with Tate to succeed because he wants it to succeed, and honestly, they do have great chemistry and some really adorable moments. However, Tate was my least favorite part of the novel and there were definitely times I found him deeply unlikeable.
For me, there was something a little uneven about the way Tate and Chase’s respective characters develop. This novel makes a big deal out of Chase turning over a new leaf, beautifully so, but honestly, I’d like to have seen Tate acknowledge the need to make some serious changes too. Chase’s anxiety, it’s causes, and his need for help is highlighted, as is the progress he makes, in good and positive ways-- you see him grow as a character, and he just gets easier and easier to root for. Tate, on the other hand, wallows in his inferiority complex and negativity for pretty much the entire novel, which leads him to do some really hurtful things in the name of protecting himself. He really lost me toward the end of the story, (vague here because spoilers are not ok) when it comes time for him to apologise to Chase, and he has to be tricked into it, because he can’t find the courage or the compassion to reach out on his own. When prompted, however, he steps up, and that’s not nothing. Plus, we get an awesome epilogue to see that everything works out, so I can’t hold the grudge for too long.
Overall, I found this to be a super enjoyable read, and an interesting take on the fake-boyfriend and second-chance-romance (sorta) tropes.
*An ARC was provided to me and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
There’s something deeply sweet about Chase as a character, and even when he’s being oblivious or making choices he shouldn’t, he’s likeable as heck. It’s easy to want his relationship with Tate to succeed because he wants it to succeed, and honestly, they do have great chemistry and some really adorable moments. However, Tate was my least favorite part of the novel and there were definitely times I found him deeply unlikeable.
For me, there was something a little uneven about the way Tate and Chase’s respective characters develop. This novel makes a big deal out of Chase turning over a new leaf, beautifully so, but honestly, I’d like to have seen Tate acknowledge the need to make some serious changes too. Chase’s anxiety, it’s causes, and his need for help is highlighted, as is the progress he makes, in good and positive ways-- you see him grow as a character, and he just gets easier and easier to root for. Tate, on the other hand, wallows in his inferiority complex and negativity for pretty much the entire novel, which leads him to do some really hurtful things in the name of protecting himself. He really lost me toward the end of the story, (vague here because spoilers are not ok) when it comes time for him to apologise to Chase, and he has to be tricked into it, because he can’t find the courage or the compassion to reach out on his own. When prompted, however, he steps up, and that’s not nothing. Plus, we get an awesome epilogue to see that everything works out, so I can’t hold the grudge for too long.
Overall, I found this to be a super enjoyable read, and an interesting take on the fake-boyfriend and second-chance-romance (sorta) tropes.
*An ARC was provided to me and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
January 4, 2024
In my read of the Riptide series, I jumped to this book from the Food Truck Warriors because it features Chase and takes place right before the final book in the Riptide series. So this story is about Chase and Tate. And man are these two adorable. They first liked one another all the way back in high school. It was senior year and they were in Home Ec together and Tate discovered his love of cooking. They were always flirting and there was one day they almost kissed but the teacher interrupted them. Sadly, nothing happen between them and they graduated and went separate ways. However, Tate’s long crush on Chase never went away. He followed Chase’s career from afar and even took Chase’s advise in following his passion for cooking rather than business. Now ten years later, they will finally be reunited. When Chase’s food truck needs a little more help reaching some sales, his sister convinces him to name drop Chase’s name in their promotions. Tate reluctantly agrees and hope it doesn’t come back to haunt them. But he never expects Chase to track him down. Track him down and not even sue him at least! Instead, he finds a Chase who is thrilled to see Tate again and wants to help. Especially that he knows just how good Tate is when it comes to cooking. And what Tate doesn’t know is that Chase never forgot Tate either and his crush was just as real. Tate was always the one guy Chase wanted to be with. And one thing leads to another and Chase ends up revealing to the world that he is queer and in a relationship with Tate. Not his brightest idea without at least talking to Tate but another part of Chase hopes that this fake relationship they find themselves in can turn very real. But nothing is that simple. They each have their own thing they are going through and need to figure out themselves and hopefully once they can, they can truly be together. I adored these two. Their journey wasn’t easy but they finally get a chance to be together after so many years. And it is clear just how much they love one another. Great story! And I’ll probably be checking out the rest of the series as well.
April 17, 2021
I really do love a good second chance type story and even though Chase and Tate weren’t really together when they were young, since they both had the feels for each other this feels like a second chance for them. These guys are just so loveable and I really enjoyed their sweet story!
In high school Chase and Tate had home economics class together and despite their differences, they made a connection. While Tate was the quieter, not out but gay kid with plans to go to NYU, Chase was the star football player with hopes of a football future. Sure, Tate had a super crush on Chase and maybe Chase seemed to flirt a bit over attempting to make biscuits and gravy, but there couldn’t possibly be a future for the two, right?
Years later Tate and his sister are running a food truck together, just trying to make it a success. He still follows Chase’s football career and still harbors a bit of a crush on the guy. His sister Rachel suggests a fake endorsement from Chase to help sales, he probably won’t notice. Well Chase certainly does and it brings the two back together. For Chase it’s an opportunity to come out and help his friend and maybe throw in a fake relationship that he secretly hopes becomes real. The problem, both of these guys have real feelings for each other.
This was a sweet and emotional ride, these characters are easy to fall in love with, they are very real, but also make some very real mistakes. Chase thinks he has something to prove as a gay man and doesn’t always have the right approach. Tate has his own insecurities, especially when it comes to the possibility of a relationship with a celebrity athlete. The emotion in this book felt very genuine, the good parts and the heartbreaking moments too and I loved every bit of it. Definitely a recommended read!
In high school Chase and Tate had home economics class together and despite their differences, they made a connection. While Tate was the quieter, not out but gay kid with plans to go to NYU, Chase was the star football player with hopes of a football future. Sure, Tate had a super crush on Chase and maybe Chase seemed to flirt a bit over attempting to make biscuits and gravy, but there couldn’t possibly be a future for the two, right?
Years later Tate and his sister are running a food truck together, just trying to make it a success. He still follows Chase’s football career and still harbors a bit of a crush on the guy. His sister Rachel suggests a fake endorsement from Chase to help sales, he probably won’t notice. Well Chase certainly does and it brings the two back together. For Chase it’s an opportunity to come out and help his friend and maybe throw in a fake relationship that he secretly hopes becomes real. The problem, both of these guys have real feelings for each other.
This was a sweet and emotional ride, these characters are easy to fall in love with, they are very real, but also make some very real mistakes. Chase thinks he has something to prove as a gay man and doesn’t always have the right approach. Tate has his own insecurities, especially when it comes to the possibility of a relationship with a celebrity athlete. The emotion in this book felt very genuine, the good parts and the heartbreaking moments too and I loved every bit of it. Definitely a recommended read!
June 13, 2021
3.5 stars. This was cute! It wasn't 100% what I was expecting based on the premise, and I did feel like the book kept almost going down certain routes that could be interesting, but never really explored them. Like the fake dating premise, which basically becomes real almost immediately? Or Chase working at the food truck prior to them hooking up – I was looking forward to upping the UST there, but it doesn't happen (I think he only works there once before they get together). It's not like the way the book went was wrong, I just kept thinking, "Oh, this will be a fun situation!" and then it would immediately go in a different direction. I did like it though! Chase and Tate were cute together, and I liked that Chase was confident in what he wanted and knew he just needed to gradually convince Tate he was serious.
I wasn't a big fan of the ending conflict. This is also the second book in this series, and I haven't read the first, but it seems like the author borrowed characters from her other books/series as well, and I was a bit confused at times about if I should have an idea of who any of them were or not. I could still follow the story, but it felt a bit much at times. Anyways that's a lot of criticism for something I generally enjoyed a lot! I would check out more by this author in the future.
I wasn't a big fan of the ending conflict. This is also the second book in this series, and I haven't read the first, but it seems like the author borrowed characters from her other books/series as well, and I was a bit confused at times about if I should have an idea of who any of them were or not. I could still follow the story, but it felt a bit much at times. Anyways that's a lot of criticism for something I generally enjoyed a lot! I would check out more by this author in the future.
July 11, 2023
This book is about Chase Riley a football player, and Tate who owns his own food truck. These two first met each other in their high school's Home Economics class. That class is where these two first started to feel things for each other, but neither of them ever acted on how they felt. They were too worried that their feelings wouldn't be reciprocated. Flash forward 10 years and Chase is a famous football player, and Tate owns his own grilled cheese food truck.
These stories just keep getting better and better. Beth knows how to write sports, she has a bunch of books that has sports being the main feature. So, this book was bound to be terrific considering she always writes really good sports romance books. Now, I personally don't follow along with sports, but the way Beth writes what's happening, even I can understand what's going on even though I don't know much about sports. Along with getting sport related information we also got bonding moments of these two in Tate's truck! After all, Tate's grilled cheese is Chase's favorite.
The story between these two was so cute and sweet. These two were both so hesitant to admit how they felt about each other that they kept dancing around how they felt. It was cute to see their relationship develop and grow into something beautiful. They had struggles getting there, but they got there in the end.
I adored how mental health played such an important part in this story, it was a vocal point of the story. It's okay to need help and to ask for help, needing help isn't a bad thing. And I love and appreciate that Beth wrote about such a serious topic.
I'm onto the next book!
(I read this in The Food Truck Warriors Box Set.)
These stories just keep getting better and better. Beth knows how to write sports, she has a bunch of books that has sports being the main feature. So, this book was bound to be terrific considering she always writes really good sports romance books. Now, I personally don't follow along with sports, but the way Beth writes what's happening, even I can understand what's going on even though I don't know much about sports. Along with getting sport related information we also got bonding moments of these two in Tate's truck! After all, Tate's grilled cheese is Chase's favorite.
The story between these two was so cute and sweet. These two were both so hesitant to admit how they felt about each other that they kept dancing around how they felt. It was cute to see their relationship develop and grow into something beautiful. They had struggles getting there, but they got there in the end.
I adored how mental health played such an important part in this story, it was a vocal point of the story. It's okay to need help and to ask for help, needing help isn't a bad thing. And I love and appreciate that Beth wrote about such a serious topic.
I'm onto the next book!
(I read this in The Food Truck Warriors Box Set.)
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