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The Oleander Chronicles #2
Rebound
All Jacob Goldman wanted was for his boyfriend to not take him for granted. His plans, however, only gained him an ex-boyfriend, a damaged classic car, a charge of bird murder, angry townsfolk, and a hot mechanic he wants nothing to do with. All he wants now is his car fixed and to not be run out of town by the angry townsfolk of Oleander for involuntary birdslaughter. Falling for his annoying mechanic is no part of Jacob’s plan.
Levi Greene is tired of being alone. He’s also tired of pining for his best friend, a man who’s in love with someone else. Jacob Goldman, an uber-twink from South Florida, isn’t even close to being Levi’s type. Nevertheless, he’s uncontrollably drawn to Jacob, and it isn’t just the lure of fixing his damaged classic car. Jacob touches Levi in a way that makes him want more, even if Levi knows that more isn’t in the cards for either one of them.
Rebound is the story of two men giving up on hopeless relationships only to fall into each other’s arms, more or less, and find that they complete each other in a way no other man could. There is hate sex, a bird funeral, “special” baked goods, a redneck seder, and an accidental overabundance of flamingos. Jacob and Levi fight each other but find they can’t fight the bond that forms between them or the love that will, despite all obstacles, have its own way. This novel is a sequel to Reunion, but features a new couple and can be read on its own.
Levi Greene is tired of being alone. He’s also tired of pining for his best friend, a man who’s in love with someone else. Jacob Goldman, an uber-twink from South Florida, isn’t even close to being Levi’s type. Nevertheless, he’s uncontrollably drawn to Jacob, and it isn’t just the lure of fixing his damaged classic car. Jacob touches Levi in a way that makes him want more, even if Levi knows that more isn’t in the cards for either one of them.
Rebound is the story of two men giving up on hopeless relationships only to fall into each other’s arms, more or less, and find that they complete each other in a way no other man could. There is hate sex, a bird funeral, “special” baked goods, a redneck seder, and an accidental overabundance of flamingos. Jacob and Levi fight each other but find they can’t fight the bond that forms between them or the love that will, despite all obstacles, have its own way. This novel is a sequel to Reunion, but features a new couple and can be read on its own.
415 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2021
48 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
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May 28, 2021DNF @85%
I'm not going to rate this one because it may just be a me-thing, not the book thing but I struggled to connect with the characters. This is enemies to lovers, so from the beginning both MCs cannot stand each other but are sexually attracted, so they quickly fall into bed. I hoped to see them go slowly from "enemies to benefits" to falling in love but we didn't really get much in between. It went 0 to 100 so fast, the characters didn't even know anything about each other but after two days and having sex, their internal monologues were full of love proclamations?! It was too insta-love for me and I wish we had gotten to see them actually have a full conversation beforehand.
Also, the fact that one MC and his family got the other MC high without his consent made me sooo uncomfy! They apologized but it was kind of brushed off and made to seem like it wasn't that big of a deal which is a big NONO to me
I'm not going to rate this one because it may just be a me-thing, not the book thing but I struggled to connect with the characters. This is enemies to lovers, so from the beginning both MCs cannot stand each other but are sexually attracted, so they quickly fall into bed. I hoped to see them go slowly from "enemies to benefits" to falling in love but we didn't really get much in between. It went 0 to 100 so fast, the characters didn't even know anything about each other but after two days and having sex, their internal monologues were full of love proclamations?! It was too insta-love for me and I wish we had gotten to see them actually have a full conversation beforehand.
Also, the fact that one MC and his family got the other MC high without his consent made me sooo uncomfy! They apologized but it was kind of brushed off and made to seem like it wasn't that big of a deal which is a big NONO to me
May 21, 2021
I’m a puppets in Lynn Van Dorn’s hand😱
Why do you want to read this book?
This is a feel good- funny book, with deep characters and real story line.
1. Enemies with benefits
2. Über-twink with a great surprise
3. Small town story without the awkward ‘I like you bc I didn’t see other guys a long time ago’.. our MC’s are picky!
4. Funny side characters
5. Seriously hot moments
6. From temporary to the best HEA
7. Ridiculous folks and flamingo
8. Piercings and tattoos!
( and have you seen this COVER???? 🤩🤩🤩)
Why did I start with the puppets thing? Bc in Reunion I didn’t like Jacob (neither Maxie!!) but in this book... awww. He totally stole my hart! And Levi is the sweetest brat ever!! They make a fantastic couple!💖
I hope there will be a book for Maxie too:)
( second book in the series, can read as standalone)
Why do you want to read this book?
This is a feel good- funny book, with deep characters and real story line.
1. Enemies with benefits
2. Über-twink with a great surprise
3. Small town story without the awkward ‘I like you bc I didn’t see other guys a long time ago’.. our MC’s are picky!
4. Funny side characters
5. Seriously hot moments
6. From temporary to the best HEA
7. Ridiculous folks and flamingo
8. Piercings and tattoos!
( and have you seen this COVER???? 🤩🤩🤩)
Why did I start with the puppets thing? Bc in Reunion I didn’t like Jacob (neither Maxie!!) but in this book... awww. He totally stole my hart! And Levi is the sweetest brat ever!! They make a fantastic couple!💖
I hope there will be a book for Maxie too:)
( second book in the series, can read as standalone)
June 23, 2021
Oh my God!!! This was so so good!!! I haven’t read the first book and honestly I don’t intend to since I don’t really care for Tony and Brett- I couldn’t stand them. But , maaan, I LOVED Jacob. From his assholish very first line! And Levi was adorable and a sweetheart. This book was so so so much fun, I laughed my ass off. I don’t think there was a character in this book I didn’t like (except for Jacob’s asshole family- his sister was a prize worthy raging bitch and Tony and Brett, of course) . This was a very funny, very quirky and very romantic book and I enjoyed the hell out of it. I’ve read other books by this author and I wasn’t impressed - it felt more like porn than romantic -“Royally screwed” was so bad (in my opinion)but this one is so very good. And it even had a light dom/sub and lingerie kink in it 😉And have I mentioned I adored Jacob??? And Maxie was a hoot! So yeah, all the stars for this book- and it’s even free on Kindle Unlimited so yay!
January 27, 2022
4.5 flamingo stars
I loved both Levi and Jacob...even though Jacob's crusty exterior was a bit much. His whole life, he's been on the defensive with no one to take his back. He slowly starts to realize that Levi is different and begins to trust him.
Super hot with sexy manties, genital piercings and very toppy Jacob.
I loved both Levi and Jacob...even though Jacob's crusty exterior was a bit much. His whole life, he's been on the defensive with no one to take his back. He slowly starts to realize that Levi is different and begins to trust him.
Super hot with sexy manties, genital piercings and very toppy Jacob.
December 15, 2022
Weird typos; mild kink.
Hate to love in a minute.
Meh resolution.
Hate to love in a minute.
Meh resolution.
May 22, 2021
Rebound was my first book by Lynn Van Dorn; as such, I had no expectations whatsoever. The blurb sounded very sweet with enemies to lovers, opposites attract and grumpy/sunshine tropes. Well, what I read while it was all that, it was so much more! The type of story this turned out to be may not surprise the author’s regular readers, but I didn’t see it coming; boy, I enjoyed it, though!
Rebound revelled in turning society’s stereotypes and norms on their head. None of the characters acted as per society’s guidelines. To start with the secondary characters: we have the extroverted, pink-haired lawyer who is as soft as he is fiercely protective, the grandmother famous for her ‘special’ baked goods, and a redneck father who embraces all the positive (and somewhat illegal) aspects of that stereotype, while not displaying any of the negative qualities that are often associated with it. Then comes the main characters!
First up, we have the declared ‘uber twink’, Jacob. Young, blonde, tall, and slender. He is also the grumpy half of the trope. On physical description alone, certain assumptions are made regarding his preferences. These are so far from the truth, and it makes you smile to realise just how wrong society has gotten it. Then we have the muscle-bound, pierced, and tattooed mechanic, Levi. He is Mr Sunshine personified and loves nothing more than to tease Jacob. Like the rest of society, Jacob makes his own assumptions about Levi, but these are soon disabused. Together, Jacob and Levi are total opposites in looks and personality and in the bedroom. They complement each other perfectly, and their chemistry is explosive!
I was utterly absorbed in this story. My heart bled for Jacob. We get hints from the beginning that his role in his father’s company is not exactly what it should be, but it’s not until near the end that we learn the true extent of it. In Levi, Jacob finds everything he never let himself want. In turn, Jacob understands Levi in a way nobody has before. They click in all aspects, and it’s a beautiful relationship to watch develop.
“Jacob had found his unicorn, right in the middle of bum-fuck nowhere, and he was not about to let that shit get away from him.”
This author’s writing style is very relaxed, but at the same time, completely addictive. This book has many emotional moments ranging in intensity. However, the story is never heavy due to the humour that is used throughout the book. Poor Jacob, I don’t think he’ll ever escape the charge of ‘involuntary birdslaughter’, and the town will never let him forget it, but that doesn’t mean it can’t change from a negative connotation to a positive one, and it’s a source of many laughs. Levi’s family are a hoot, especially his grandmother, father, and sister. They are a source of much of the humour, and they are a such a set of ‘mad’ characters that you can’t help but laugh at them.
“ ‘According to Mom and the ultrasounds, you had your face in my crotch for most of her pregnancy.’ Leah shuddered. ‘And people wonder why I’m a lesbian.’ ”
Rebound can be read as a standalone. I had not read the first book in the series before reading this one (although I’m going back to do so), and I had no trouble keeping up. The book doesn’t presume any previous knowledge.
I believe that our next couple to find love in the ‘flower town’ were introduced in this story, and I can’t wait to see how that all works out. I suspect Aaron will have his work cut out for him!
I absolutely loved my first experience with Lynn Van Dorn, and I will certainly be reading her other books. Rebound has characters with whom you can’t help but fall in love. It has emotional moments that are tempered with humour, it’s romantic, and it’s hot!! Honestly, you can’t ask for much more!
*trigger warnings: there is mention of past sexual assault, and there is a BDSM aspect. It is light and only really domination/submission. There is no pain or humiliation (although there is a teeny attempt at humiliation, but it backfires spectacularly!).
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November 28, 2021
This was a DNF. I meant to do a review of my bad experience with this book but realized I never did…here it is….
When 2 second fiddles meet.
Jacob and Levi
I’m not sure I like either of these characters. Both are pretty unlikeable.
I’m iffy on the term Uber twink as well 🤔
Ok, that term has to go. 23 times it is said! I’m OVER it! I’m safe wording!
The first penetrating sex was SO cringeworthy. It was depressing 🥺🥺
Jacob just seems more abusive than anything...And not like roll play abusive. It made my stomach hurt with anxiety abusive. Levi seems to like it but I can’t read it anymore. It’s WAY too much.
I’m at 47% and I really just can’t go on.
When 2 second fiddles meet.
Jacob and Levi
I’m not sure I like either of these characters. Both are pretty unlikeable.
I’m iffy on the term Uber twink as well 🤔
Ok, that term has to go. 23 times it is said! I’m OVER it! I’m safe wording!
The first penetrating sex was SO cringeworthy. It was depressing 🥺🥺
Jacob just seems more abusive than anything...And not like roll play abusive. It made my stomach hurt with anxiety abusive. Levi seems to like it but I can’t read it anymore. It’s WAY too much.
I’m at 47% and I really just can’t go on.
December 12, 2021
A truly edgy read full of deep emotion, slowly revealed through epic storytelling and magnificent character development.
While you could read this as a standalone, you will truly appreciate the blossoming of Jacob's personality in particular if you have started by reading (or listening to the brilliant audio) of Reunion first.
Lynn's writing is well known for the delicately nuanced people she creates and Rebound has an abundance of singular standouts - including Levi's twin sister Leah, the lesbian who spends her time creating new pot strains for their unique grandmother - Bubbe, to bake into edibles that townsfolk come in droves for.
This book has it all - humour, a fantastic cast, a journey of discovery and plenty of feels. And of course all the D/s heat - but with a fresh viewpoint. I adored every page and soaked it all up within hours.
The audio from Michael Ferraiuolo is outstanding and brings an extra dimension to the characters helping cement them in the reader (listener) mind and heart. Not to mention the simple brilliance of a unique accent making Levi's Dad a stand out highlight of the entire book!
While you could read this as a standalone, you will truly appreciate the blossoming of Jacob's personality in particular if you have started by reading (or listening to the brilliant audio) of Reunion first.
Lynn's writing is well known for the delicately nuanced people she creates and Rebound has an abundance of singular standouts - including Levi's twin sister Leah, the lesbian who spends her time creating new pot strains for their unique grandmother - Bubbe, to bake into edibles that townsfolk come in droves for.
This book has it all - humour, a fantastic cast, a journey of discovery and plenty of feels. And of course all the D/s heat - but with a fresh viewpoint. I adored every page and soaked it all up within hours.
The audio from Michael Ferraiuolo is outstanding and brings an extra dimension to the characters helping cement them in the reader (listener) mind and heart. Not to mention the simple brilliance of a unique accent making Levi's Dad a stand out highlight of the entire book!
May 26, 2021
DNF @ 13%.
I'm slightly annoyed at myself for reading this after having not enjoyed the first book at at all, but the entire reason why I read the first book was because I wanted to read this one. The cover sucked me in, what can I say?
The editing is a real issue for me. The first book had a lot of typos. This one does, too. Like this sentence: He lunged for Levi and gave him a ringing slap across te while the other shoved Jacob back into his seat." Typo and missing words.
Then there is the issue of heights. In Reunion, when Jacob first meets Tony, he notes that he isn't that tall :
So, by that we can assume Tony is the shortest, then Brett, with Jacob be the tallest. Or maybe not. In this book, we have :
and
I feel like an author who doesn't even pay attention to the heights she has described of her characters to the point that she has completely reversed them probably will be just as sloppy with the rest of the book. Like how Jacob tells Levi he can't get he's garage as Maxie has the car, only Maxie is getting his nails done, so you would think that instead of Jacob hopping a ride with Maxie to the nail salon and Levi picking him up from there, that Jacob would have dropped off Maxie and then gone to the garage, rather than have rental sit in a parking spot unused while Maxie's nails are getting done.
I think my biggest issue though is how antagonistic and unprofessional Levi is towards Jacob right from the get-go. He calls him Jack. Jacob corrects him, tells him it's Jacob. So Levi calls him Goldilocks. And it doesn't get any better from there. Not that Jacob isn't pretty rude himself, but if I'm paying someone for a service, I would expect them to act professional and polite towards me, and if they didn't, I'd probably dish it right back to them too.
I think I can safely say that this author and I are not a match made in heaven, and I won't be reading any more of her books. Though I should have checked to see if I had read any of the author's other books before giving this series a go, as the one DNF, one 1-star and one 2-star review should have served as a warning.
I'm slightly annoyed at myself for reading this after having not enjoyed the first book at at all, but the entire reason why I read the first book was because I wanted to read this one. The cover sucked me in, what can I say?
The editing is a real issue for me. The first book had a lot of typos. This one does, too. Like this sentence: He lunged for Levi and gave him a ringing slap across te while the other shoved Jacob back into his seat." Typo and missing words.
Then there is the issue of heights. In Reunion, when Jacob first meets Tony, he notes that he isn't that tall :
Jacob eyed the object of Brett's misplaced affections dispassionately. He wasn't overly tall. Maybe an inch taller than Brett and a few inches short than Jacob.
So, by that we can assume Tony is the shortest, then Brett, with Jacob be the tallest. Or maybe not. In this book, we have :
Brett was taller than Jacob, but not too tall, broader in the shoulders without being muscle-bound [...]
and
Brett, as it turned out, wasn't pining for Jacob. He was going around kissing unfairly tall and handsome hicks[...]
I feel like an author who doesn't even pay attention to the heights she has described of her characters to the point that she has completely reversed them probably will be just as sloppy with the rest of the book. Like how Jacob tells Levi he can't get he's garage as Maxie has the car, only Maxie is getting his nails done, so you would think that instead of Jacob hopping a ride with Maxie to the nail salon and Levi picking him up from there, that Jacob would have dropped off Maxie and then gone to the garage, rather than have rental sit in a parking spot unused while Maxie's nails are getting done.
I think my biggest issue though is how antagonistic and unprofessional Levi is towards Jacob right from the get-go. He calls him Jack. Jacob corrects him, tells him it's Jacob. So Levi calls him Goldilocks. And it doesn't get any better from there. Not that Jacob isn't pretty rude himself, but if I'm paying someone for a service, I would expect them to act professional and polite towards me, and if they didn't, I'd probably dish it right back to them too.
I think I can safely say that this author and I are not a match made in heaven, and I won't be reading any more of her books. Though I should have checked to see if I had read any of the author's other books before giving this series a go, as the one DNF, one 1-star and one 2-star review should have served as a warning.
May 20, 2021
OMG this was gold! I was prepared to continue to tolerate Jacob, but Lynn wouldn't let me. She wrote a really complex character that I couldn't help but fall in love with.
We met Jacob previously as just this spoiled rich kid. A guy who thought that he could have anything he wanted just because of who he is. But in this vol, we get to see why he acts like this. We are taken on a journey to why this man acts the way he does. We see that he is only putting up a front because of the challenges in his life. The tragic circumstances in his past made him who he is today. And it only takes a few days with a hot mechanic and his crazy family to get him to thaw out.
Levi, our lovable mechanic. While we know he had feelings for Tony, I never got the feeling they were too deep. Levi, I think gravitated to him just because they were living in a small town and they were the only gay guys in their class. But we get to learn more about him and what it really is he wants and needs.
This story was a joy to read. We got to continue seeing the crazy town folks, get to meet a hillbilly/Jewish family that really isn't Jewish and learn a ton about "Mary Jane". While this is book 2 you don't really need to read the 1st since you get plenty of backstory in the first few chapters. If you want to really get a full scoop of the town and the other characters, than yes read book 1 first. I can't wait for book 3.
We met Jacob previously as just this spoiled rich kid. A guy who thought that he could have anything he wanted just because of who he is. But in this vol, we get to see why he acts like this. We are taken on a journey to why this man acts the way he does. We see that he is only putting up a front because of the challenges in his life. The tragic circumstances in his past made him who he is today. And it only takes a few days with a hot mechanic and his crazy family to get him to thaw out.
Levi, our lovable mechanic. While we know he had feelings for Tony, I never got the feeling they were too deep. Levi, I think gravitated to him just because they were living in a small town and they were the only gay guys in their class. But we get to learn more about him and what it really is he wants and needs.
This story was a joy to read. We got to continue seeing the crazy town folks, get to meet a hillbilly/Jewish family that really isn't Jewish and learn a ton about "Mary Jane". While this is book 2 you don't really need to read the 1st since you get plenty of backstory in the first few chapters. If you want to really get a full scoop of the town and the other characters, than yes read book 1 first. I can't wait for book 3.
May 29, 2021
I don’t know what the hell happened with the first couple of chapters in this book.
This example sentence says it all: “He lunged for Levi and gave him a ringing slap across te while the other shoved Jacob back into his seat."
As you see, it, actually, doesn’t say it all because it doesn’t say anything that makes sense.
This is really frustrating because I have read many of Van Dorn’s books and she writes dark family secrets and emotional vulnerability and flawed characters who deserve love really well. I’m shocked by the number of typos and missing words in this work.
I’m dealing with two warring factions in my mind. There’s a part of me that wishes I had simply given up on this book after reading the sentence above. There’s also the part of me that is glad I pushed through because there were moments when I saw what this book could’ve been— something wonderful.
This example sentence says it all: “He lunged for Levi and gave him a ringing slap across te while the other shoved Jacob back into his seat."
As you see, it, actually, doesn’t say it all because it doesn’t say anything that makes sense.
This is really frustrating because I have read many of Van Dorn’s books and she writes dark family secrets and emotional vulnerability and flawed characters who deserve love really well. I’m shocked by the number of typos and missing words in this work.
I’m dealing with two warring factions in my mind. There’s a part of me that wishes I had simply given up on this book after reading the sentence above. There’s also the part of me that is glad I pushed through because there were moments when I saw what this book could’ve been— something wonderful.
May 23, 2021
I liked it. There was sass and character, there were all kinds of funny shenanigans, and the premise was great. The writing is good as always, although the editing could be improved.
The problem: at least 25% of the story was pure filler. Everything after the two MCs becoming an item (kinda), was unnecessary and boring. It should've been condensed into a cohesive ending, but instead it was drawn out into infinity.
The problem: at least 25% of the story was pure filler. Everything after the two MCs becoming an item (kinda), was unnecessary and boring. It should've been condensed into a cohesive ending, but instead it was drawn out into infinity.
May 21, 2021
This was a fantastic enemies to lovers story. Best case of insta-hate ever, with sparks that ignited from the moment Jacob and Levi met. A mutual dislike for each other that, after their first kiss, blended with sizzling passion. I couldn't get enough of them together. They fought, bickered and teased, to then take their animosity to bed and work out their differences in some of the hottest hate sex scenes I've ever read.
Jacob and Levi together were unadulterated, blazing chemistry, their sexual needs perfectly matched. A classic tale of "I don't like you, but I want you", in the beginning, until Jacob's walls started to crack and he unguardedly allowed himself to be vulnerable and open with Levi. It was beautiful and heart-melting to see Jacob thaw in Levi's arms, especially because the story has slowly revealed why he was icy and prickly in the first place. His parents and sister were hateful and really did a number on his psych, but being around Levi's family showed him what unconditional love really meant.
And, look, I have a wonderful family myself, but I wouldn't mind if Levi's adopted me, too, for a while. Noisy and even a bit weird, but accepting and openly affectionate. I loved watching how they took Jacob in, and also how their welcome helped him realize that, for the first time in his life, even if he wasn't perfect, he could be appreciated and loved for his true self. Jacob had different plans when he come to Oleander, but he found not only himself, but also acceptance, love, family and community. Him and Levi had their struggles, but their made a perfect fit and filled each other's empty space.
Jacob and Levi's romance was heart-rending and I loved these two together. As a whole, what I appreciated most about Rebound was that, even at it's most saddening or when I wanted to rage at Jacob's family, the story was never overwhelmingly angsty. As a matter of fact, it was for the most part incredibly funny, making me laugh out loud countless times throughout. Just like with Reunion, Oleander and its wacky inhabitants, flamingos included, were amazing and entertaining. I already can't wait for the next book in this series, with more adventures in Oleander and more romance to come.
Jacob and Levi together were unadulterated, blazing chemistry, their sexual needs perfectly matched. A classic tale of "I don't like you, but I want you", in the beginning, until Jacob's walls started to crack and he unguardedly allowed himself to be vulnerable and open with Levi. It was beautiful and heart-melting to see Jacob thaw in Levi's arms, especially because the story has slowly revealed why he was icy and prickly in the first place. His parents and sister were hateful and really did a number on his psych, but being around Levi's family showed him what unconditional love really meant.
And, look, I have a wonderful family myself, but I wouldn't mind if Levi's adopted me, too, for a while. Noisy and even a bit weird, but accepting and openly affectionate. I loved watching how they took Jacob in, and also how their welcome helped him realize that, for the first time in his life, even if he wasn't perfect, he could be appreciated and loved for his true self. Jacob had different plans when he come to Oleander, but he found not only himself, but also acceptance, love, family and community. Him and Levi had their struggles, but their made a perfect fit and filled each other's empty space.
Jacob and Levi's romance was heart-rending and I loved these two together. As a whole, what I appreciated most about Rebound was that, even at it's most saddening or when I wanted to rage at Jacob's family, the story was never overwhelmingly angsty. As a matter of fact, it was for the most part incredibly funny, making me laugh out loud countless times throughout. Just like with Reunion, Oleander and its wacky inhabitants, flamingos included, were amazing and entertaining. I already can't wait for the next book in this series, with more adventures in Oleander and more romance to come.
May 18, 2021
I adored Jacob and Levi! While not my favorite book by Lynn, (only because Damage Control and Daddy Issues will forever hold that spot 💜) it was nonetheless awesome! It is not *quite* as standalone as id have liked, as I did feel the first chapter would have benefited from some more context on Brett and Jacobs relationship prior to the breakup (to compare to the eventual relationship with Levi), etc, but it was enough that the story was full and complete without reading the first book. (I have every intention of reading it now, just slightly out of order, don't worry.)
There was quite a bit of humor and an appropriate amount of angst, as fitting for a Lynn van dorn novel, and the perfect amount of flamingos.
There was quite a bit of humor and an appropriate amount of angst, as fitting for a Lynn van dorn novel, and the perfect amount of flamingos.
May 21, 2021
Amazing as always!
YESSS, this was exactly what I hoped for Levi and Jacob.
For one, for Levi to get over his unrequited crush, and two, to really see who Jacob was and make all of Levi’s dirty wishes come true.
This was an extremely hot hot hot book, not to mention, HILARIOUS! I laughed and squirmed and signed happily in every small sweet moment.
Levi’s family were pure gold, seriously, all of Lynn’s secondary characters and simply perfection. They do make her universe’s come alive.
I seriously cannot wait for Aaron and a certain’s bossy ver story to come out, not to mention, Maxie’s happily ever after, if someone needs a story, it’s him, I am completely in love. Oleander is definitely the place to be.
*received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
YESSS, this was exactly what I hoped for Levi and Jacob.
For one, for Levi to get over his unrequited crush, and two, to really see who Jacob was and make all of Levi’s dirty wishes come true.
This was an extremely hot hot hot book, not to mention, HILARIOUS! I laughed and squirmed and signed happily in every small sweet moment.
Levi’s family were pure gold, seriously, all of Lynn’s secondary characters and simply perfection. They do make her universe’s come alive.
I seriously cannot wait for Aaron and a certain’s bossy ver story to come out, not to mention, Maxie’s happily ever after, if someone needs a story, it’s him, I am completely in love. Oleander is definitely the place to be.
*received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
May 21, 2021
Another awesome and amazing Lynn Van Dorn book. Jacob and Levi are onenof those couples that you cheer from them very first moment. They are sassy, fun, a little broken and... so sexy together. The story happens after the end of Reunion, so we see the previous couples and a few very interesting characters - Levi's family made me laugh the whole book. Lynn plays with stereotypes here, and the result is really really good.
Curious to see about some side characters what Lynn is planning for them in the future.
Curious to see about some side characters what Lynn is planning for them in the future.
May 31, 2021
5⭐ Loved this one even more than the first one in the series. Loved both main characters, no angst, the humor, Levi's family, etc... Great read! Definite reread in the future.
June 14, 2021
1 star for this, but only because the cover is 5+++++ stars The cover model is definitely how I'd picture Jacob. Too bad the author didn't do right by him.
Not sure I'll be reading anymore by this author. Here's the gist of my rating:
What adds to my dislike of this book is the fact that I found Jacob to be a pretty complex and intriguing character, much like I did with Brett in the first book. I think if we could have had a book about Brett and Jacob where they remained a couple and exposed their real selves to each other (vs. just their body parts), it would have been a pretty interesting story.
Not sure I'll be reading anymore by this author. Here's the gist of my rating:
What adds to my dislike of this book is the fact that I found Jacob to be a pretty complex and intriguing character, much like I did with Brett in the first book. I think if we could have had a book about Brett and Jacob where they remained a couple and exposed their real selves to each other (vs. just their body parts), it would have been a pretty interesting story.
dnf-not-for-me
June 6, 2021DNF 50% Not feeling this at all. Jacob is unlikeable and this toppy twink, D/s is just weird and awkward. I’m all for breaking stereotypes but not with a sledgehammer. The family and some other characters are just too much.
June 17, 2021
A definite "enemies to lovers" story in every imaginable way.
4 solid stars
**Contains spoilers**
After having a flamingo hit the windshield of his father's antique Hudson Hawk, Jacob, an uber-twink, finds himself at the mercy of the small town of Oleanders' best restoration mechanic, Levi. From the start, mutual dislike is at the forefront. Jacob is a spoiled wealthy marketing executive for his father's company, but hates the job. His family is beyond dysfunctional and uses his good looks to secure business by pimping him out to potential clients.
When Levi explains that it could take over a week to locate a replacement windshield, Jacob is forced, along with his extremely flamboyant best friend Matty, to chech into Levi's grandmothers' B & B, which has flamingos everywhere! The grandmother, Bubbe, together with Levi's sister Leah, are in a side business of growing strong marijuana strains to sell.
After taking all he can take of Levi's macho attitude, Jacob overpowers the older man and makes him submit to Jacob's sexual demands. Both are surprised when Levi discovers he likes being ordered around and Jacob is aroused that he has this power over the rude, insufferable mechanic.
As the days pass, Jacob finds himself dominating Levi more frequently, with Levi begging him to command him. All Jacob wants, at first, is to humiliate the mechanic, but slowly begins to crave their sexual encounters. Before long, Jacob has Levi wearing frilly lace panties, which Levi enjoys and wears willingly.
However, not everything is going well for Jacob. The townspeople hate him for killing Betty, the flamingo that hit his car. In an effort to make amends, Levi's father helps the twink secure, illegally and through multiple shady deals, 13 flamingos for the town. Since the death of Betty, Armand, her mate, has been depressed and lonely. After securing a vet to bring the 13 birds back to good health, Jacob donates the entire flock to the town and gains their respect.
Meanwhile, Levi and Jacob find themselves becoming "enemies with benefits." While not admitting they might be starting to like one another, they agree to keep their sexual relationship going, with Jacob being dominant, but not a Dom. Levi is more than willing to submit.
As the days become weeks, the two protagonists find that the dislike they once felt is beginning to fade and each opens up to the other about their pasts. Of course, this sharing of confidences builds trust between them. Jacob finds that he can release some of his control over Levi, allowing the mechanic to be the dominant partner every so often.
After a huge fight with his stupendously messed up family, Jacob finds the courage to tell them he quits his job within his father's company and is staying in Oleander with Levi. Shocked, they try to force him to return home. But Levi interjects and makes a deal with Jacob's father to buy the Hawk in exchange for Jacob's permanent freedom and further harassment. The deal works, with the help of a henceforth unknown recording of the time Jacob lost his virginity to secure a client for his father's company, craftily planned by Matty.
Weeks later, as Jacob drives through the town in the fully restored Hudson Hawk, the townspeople wave greetings or nod politely, instilling a sense of belonging in Jacob. Even Levi's family has accepted him as an adopted son, giving him a true family he never had before.
With things settling down at last, Jacob has one final demand for Levi. Will this demand ruin their relationship or strengthen it? To discover the endgame, read this highly humorous, sweet and insightful book. I highly recommend it.
Final note: editing errors were nearly nonexistent, much to my delight.
4 solid stars
**Contains spoilers**
After having a flamingo hit the windshield of his father's antique Hudson Hawk, Jacob, an uber-twink, finds himself at the mercy of the small town of Oleanders' best restoration mechanic, Levi. From the start, mutual dislike is at the forefront. Jacob is a spoiled wealthy marketing executive for his father's company, but hates the job. His family is beyond dysfunctional and uses his good looks to secure business by pimping him out to potential clients.
When Levi explains that it could take over a week to locate a replacement windshield, Jacob is forced, along with his extremely flamboyant best friend Matty, to chech into Levi's grandmothers' B & B, which has flamingos everywhere! The grandmother, Bubbe, together with Levi's sister Leah, are in a side business of growing strong marijuana strains to sell.
After taking all he can take of Levi's macho attitude, Jacob overpowers the older man and makes him submit to Jacob's sexual demands. Both are surprised when Levi discovers he likes being ordered around and Jacob is aroused that he has this power over the rude, insufferable mechanic.
As the days pass, Jacob finds himself dominating Levi more frequently, with Levi begging him to command him. All Jacob wants, at first, is to humiliate the mechanic, but slowly begins to crave their sexual encounters. Before long, Jacob has Levi wearing frilly lace panties, which Levi enjoys and wears willingly.
However, not everything is going well for Jacob. The townspeople hate him for killing Betty, the flamingo that hit his car. In an effort to make amends, Levi's father helps the twink secure, illegally and through multiple shady deals, 13 flamingos for the town. Since the death of Betty, Armand, her mate, has been depressed and lonely. After securing a vet to bring the 13 birds back to good health, Jacob donates the entire flock to the town and gains their respect.
Meanwhile, Levi and Jacob find themselves becoming "enemies with benefits." While not admitting they might be starting to like one another, they agree to keep their sexual relationship going, with Jacob being dominant, but not a Dom. Levi is more than willing to submit.
As the days become weeks, the two protagonists find that the dislike they once felt is beginning to fade and each opens up to the other about their pasts. Of course, this sharing of confidences builds trust between them. Jacob finds that he can release some of his control over Levi, allowing the mechanic to be the dominant partner every so often.
After a huge fight with his stupendously messed up family, Jacob finds the courage to tell them he quits his job within his father's company and is staying in Oleander with Levi. Shocked, they try to force him to return home. But Levi interjects and makes a deal with Jacob's father to buy the Hawk in exchange for Jacob's permanent freedom and further harassment. The deal works, with the help of a henceforth unknown recording of the time Jacob lost his virginity to secure a client for his father's company, craftily planned by Matty.
Weeks later, as Jacob drives through the town in the fully restored Hudson Hawk, the townspeople wave greetings or nod politely, instilling a sense of belonging in Jacob. Even Levi's family has accepted him as an adopted son, giving him a true family he never had before.
With things settling down at last, Jacob has one final demand for Levi. Will this demand ruin their relationship or strengthen it? To discover the endgame, read this highly humorous, sweet and insightful book. I highly recommend it.
Final note: editing errors were nearly nonexistent, much to my delight.
May 24, 2021
If you’re looking for a book that mixes humor with angsty hurt/comfort romance, this is it.
In this case, the hurt surrounds Jacob, who has come to the small town of Oleander in pursuit of his ex-boyfriend. Them getting back together isn’t in the cards, though, because his ex is now with someone else. To add insult to injury, Jacob accidentally kills one of the town’s beloved flamingos, damaging his father’s classic car in the process. That’s how he meets Levi, who has a business repairing and restoring cars.
Levi’s life isn’t perfect, but it’s not bad. He loves working on cars, and although his extremely quirky family can drive him crazy, he loves them, too. However, Levi’s still looking for a man to love. He’s been carrying a torch for his best friend Tony for years, but Tony has never been interested, and now he’s dating Jacob’s ex. Levi’s been with other guys, but he’s never found anyone who really satisfies his kinks. Nobody until Jacob, that is. (Be prepared for some steamy d/s scenes!)
So, Jacob finally gives Levi what he needs in bed, but it turns out that Levi gives Jacob much more. Jacob has a cold and aloof exterior, but it turns out that his behavior is a front for a damaged heart. Jacob has been treated terribly by his unloving family (and that’s an understatement). He desperately needs someone to see him and love him for who he is, flaws and all. Levi does exactly that, and it’s so sweet to see Jacob realize that he is both loveable and loved.
As for the humor, well, the running joke of the book is that Jacob has committed “involuntary birdslaughter.” Enough said, I think.
You don’t have to read the previous book in the series, Reunion, to enjoy this one. However, they are both excellent reads, so I’d highly recommend doing it anyway. I can’t wait for book 3!
This review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy; all opinions are my own.
In this case, the hurt surrounds Jacob, who has come to the small town of Oleander in pursuit of his ex-boyfriend. Them getting back together isn’t in the cards, though, because his ex is now with someone else. To add insult to injury, Jacob accidentally kills one of the town’s beloved flamingos, damaging his father’s classic car in the process. That’s how he meets Levi, who has a business repairing and restoring cars.
Levi’s life isn’t perfect, but it’s not bad. He loves working on cars, and although his extremely quirky family can drive him crazy, he loves them, too. However, Levi’s still looking for a man to love. He’s been carrying a torch for his best friend Tony for years, but Tony has never been interested, and now he’s dating Jacob’s ex. Levi’s been with other guys, but he’s never found anyone who really satisfies his kinks. Nobody until Jacob, that is. (Be prepared for some steamy d/s scenes!)
So, Jacob finally gives Levi what he needs in bed, but it turns out that Levi gives Jacob much more. Jacob has a cold and aloof exterior, but it turns out that his behavior is a front for a damaged heart. Jacob has been treated terribly by his unloving family (and that’s an understatement). He desperately needs someone to see him and love him for who he is, flaws and all. Levi does exactly that, and it’s so sweet to see Jacob realize that he is both loveable and loved.
As for the humor, well, the running joke of the book is that Jacob has committed “involuntary birdslaughter.” Enough said, I think.
You don’t have to read the previous book in the series, Reunion, to enjoy this one. However, they are both excellent reads, so I’d highly recommend doing it anyway. I can’t wait for book 3!
This review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy; all opinions are my own.
May 16, 2021
The town of Oleander,FL is home to quite a quirky group of individuals. Levi has not so secretly been in love with Tony for a long time, but he has realized that just maybe it is time to let that bit of infatuation go. They are best friends and Tony is quite happy with Brett now. But interesting things have a way of happening here and with the death of one flamingo and the need of costly repairs to a classic car, he just might find what he is missing. Jacob thought that some time apart was what he and Brett needed but what ended up happening was beyond what he could ever have expected. Being stuck in this FL backwater is not what he had planned but he finds that the tall tattooed mechanic at the only garage in town is definitely more than meets the eye. Jacob thinks he has the upper hand when he starts trying to dominate the other man, but Levi just wants him to stay. Talk about two guys who don’t meet your standard stereotypes and that is more than ok. The character of Jacob took some time to grow on me but he is hurting on the inside. His slightly bitchy acerbic exterior covers someone who just wants to be loved for who he is and is desperate for familial acceptance. He finds it; in a crazy town with a Bubbe who makes some serious pot infused baked goods and a large overbearing and slightly crazy not so Jewish family. And did you know that a flock of flamingos is called a flamboyance? After all they are fabulous! If you love large crazy accepting families and all sorts of shenanigans, I highly suggest you read this book!
May 21, 2021
This turned out to be a very enjoyable read.
I haven’t read the first Oleander Chronicles book yet and although Rebound CAN be read as a stand-alone, I’d advise on reading Reunion first. I’ll read the first installment now to get all the background information additionally.
The story follows mechanic Levi and Jacob, who is stranded in Oleander until his car is fixed.
I loved the story and especially the character development.
In the beginning Jacob comes along as an aloof, spoiled rich kid but turns out to be so much more complex. I love his emotional journey and how along the story the reader slowly learns why he is the way he is.
And after getting to know Levi you can’t stereotype him as some dumb knucklehead mechanic. (And he has a lot of piercings in very interesting places!)
These two men are the perfect examples to never judge a book by its cover. They are not anything like what they appear at first sight (and not just in bed). I loved how they went from kind-of hate, to lust, attraction and compatibility in bed to accidentally building something real along the way.
And Levi’s family? They are just hilarious and turn this book into a highly enjoyable and multi-layered story.
So if you’re looking for a well written opposites attract (kind of enemies-to-) read with snark, hilarious interactions, amazing side characters and high steam, you should definitely grab this one!
I haven’t read the first Oleander Chronicles book yet and although Rebound CAN be read as a stand-alone, I’d advise on reading Reunion first. I’ll read the first installment now to get all the background information additionally.
The story follows mechanic Levi and Jacob, who is stranded in Oleander until his car is fixed.
I loved the story and especially the character development.
In the beginning Jacob comes along as an aloof, spoiled rich kid but turns out to be so much more complex. I love his emotional journey and how along the story the reader slowly learns why he is the way he is.
And after getting to know Levi you can’t stereotype him as some dumb knucklehead mechanic. (And he has a lot of piercings in very interesting places!)
These two men are the perfect examples to never judge a book by its cover. They are not anything like what they appear at first sight (and not just in bed). I loved how they went from kind-of hate, to lust, attraction and compatibility in bed to accidentally building something real along the way.
And Levi’s family? They are just hilarious and turn this book into a highly enjoyable and multi-layered story.
So if you’re looking for a well written opposites attract (kind of enemies-to-) read with snark, hilarious interactions, amazing side characters and high steam, you should definitely grab this one!
May 18, 2021
Outstanding!! This story hit all my buttons! Jacob has come to town to try and get his boyfriend back, but unfortunately for him he’s already moved on. He seemed so cold and icy until we get to know what makes him tick! Levi is the “typical” bad boy, ok not really! These two are so very opposite of what you’d assume they are. Jacob is grumpy to Levi’s sunshine. What that being said, this was sooo good, fantastic!! Hot and steamy and laugh out loud hilarious! The secondary characters are way to funny for words, Bubbe with her pot infused gingerbread, Leah, and Maxie to name a few and don’t forget the flamboyance of flamingos! Levi has an amazing support group in his family while Jacob’s are just plain horrible, too terrible for words! I cannot wait for next one! I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received.
May 21, 2021
I really enjoyed Jacob and Levi’s story. From only tolerating the rich, spoiled Jacob in the first book, I completely fell in love with him here. Lynn has done a remarkable job of crafting complex characters who undertake significant character growth. It is also a unique take on the grumpy/sunshine and hate-to-love tropes - Levi and Jacob being so opposite to how you would think. The unmistakable pull between Levi and Jacob is so heavy with tension and attraction, and yes, a little bit of anger. Their chemistry is off the charts and they are pure fire when they come together! Both emotionally damaged from hopeless relationships, it’s also incredibly sweet as they find out there is actually somewhere they belong: in each other’s arms. A satisfying and very well-developed small town romance, with an amazingly hilarious cast of side characters!
June 2, 2021
Lynn Van Dorn is one of those authors that are easy to become addicted to. I gobble everything of hers up as soon as I can. This book is another example of why that will continue. It’s refreshing, it’s everything I love but done in a way that gives it a fresh spin, so it’s not like any other book you can fine by searching for its tropes. It doesn’t matter which trope she uses, she gives it her voice and it’s just incredible to read.
The characters were well developed and such fun. I loved the dynamics, their interactions, and the pacing of the storyline. I had a hard time putting this book down when life beckoned.I highly recommend it, even if you hadn’t read the first book. I can’t wait for the audiobook. I mean, I hope there is an audiobook, anyways.
***I received a copy of this book for my reading pleasure. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***
The characters were well developed and such fun. I loved the dynamics, their interactions, and the pacing of the storyline. I had a hard time putting this book down when life beckoned.I highly recommend it, even if you hadn’t read the first book. I can’t wait for the audiobook. I mean, I hope there is an audiobook, anyways.
***I received a copy of this book for my reading pleasure. All thoughts and opinions are my own.***
May 21, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! It was funny and hot small town, insta-love romance with unique characters but like always in Lynn's books, there's also deeper, more serious level underneath.
I usually find small town romances boring and often the meddling families and neighbors are just annoying as hell, but no, not in this book!
I loved Levi's crazy ass family so much! This book is even better than the first one.
I like how every character is totally different from what they look from the outside. Jacob, the uber-twink, is toppy as hell and Levi, tattooed hunky mechanic, is a big ol' bottom. Who might have lacy lingerie under his overalls.... Hairy, hot hunk in lingerie! Mmhhmm....
Oh, and there's also flamingos!
I usually find small town romances boring and often the meddling families and neighbors are just annoying as hell, but no, not in this book!
I loved Levi's crazy ass family so much! This book is even better than the first one.
I like how every character is totally different from what they look from the outside. Jacob, the uber-twink, is toppy as hell and Levi, tattooed hunky mechanic, is a big ol' bottom. Who might have lacy lingerie under his overalls.... Hairy, hot hunk in lingerie! Mmhhmm....
Oh, and there's also flamingos!
May 22, 2021
After reading Reunion I did not expect Rebound to be such a challenge. I rarely come across books where I struggle to like one of the MCs, yet am mesmerised with the story and cant see myself not finishing it. I am so happy I held onto it, because the Uber - complicated mess of a personality that was Jacob proved to be one of the strongest points of the book! I loved all his background and how the author shaped his personality around all his experiences. And how Oleander changed his life!
Levi and his family were a hillarious mess of great characters and the story itself was really good!
Lynn Van Dorn did a great job in the character development area with this one. A really good and unique book!
Levi and his family were a hillarious mess of great characters and the story itself was really good!
Lynn Van Dorn did a great job in the character development area with this one. A really good and unique book!
May 24, 2021
This is the first book I have read from Lynn Van Dorn and she really knows how to tell a story. It is definitely not one of those cookie cutter romance stories. All the MC and all the side characters in this small quirky town are so lovable. There is plenty of drama, angst, and tears. There are plenty of laughs to be had. I see many of my own quirky friends in pretty much all the characters in this book. This one had everything, drama, angst, tears, and humor. Even the hurt/angry sex scene was hot. I enjoyed how the author broke the stereotypical boundaries and showed the characters as they are and not what others perceive them to be. I do recommend reading this. I really need to read the first book in the series.
I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy.
I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy.
May 21, 2021
Enemies to lovers, with a toppy twink and a bottomy tattooed guy, is something we don't see often enough. I love this idea.
But I couldn't connect with the characters and the story. Caleb wasn't simply broody, he was rude to everyone and always thought the worst of people. Even with all his self-confidence issues, I couldn't understand the need to treat everyone so badly. And Levi melted into Caleb's touch too easily, considering how horrible Caleb was to him.
Levi's sister and grandmother and Caleb's friends were the best part of the book. They were funny and always enthusiastic, the parts with them were great.
But I couldn't connect with the characters and the story. Caleb wasn't simply broody, he was rude to everyone and always thought the worst of people. Even with all his self-confidence issues, I couldn't understand the need to treat everyone so badly. And Levi melted into Caleb's touch too easily, considering how horrible Caleb was to him.
Levi's sister and grandmother and Caleb's friends were the best part of the book. They were funny and always enthusiastic, the parts with them were great.
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