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A Love Story #13
Catch
If only life were as simple as happily ever after...
Jules Bartlett stopped believing in fairytales the day Prince Charming got caught banging her friend on their expensive countertops. Now, having returned to her seaside hometown—sans prince—the only men in Jules’s life are her crew of twelve smart ass fisherman who pose no romantic threat and endlessly dote on her daughter. Perfection.
Tyler Pace is used to saving the day. Straddled between the big city and Bodega Bay, he seamlessly juggles big business and hometown city council, all while picking up the pieces for his alcoholic father. But when it comes to Jules Bartlett — the woman he’s loved forever — Tyler loses every ounce of his hard-earned charm and finesse.
Jules isn’t interested in being another one of Tyler’s “projects” — and no grand gesture or impressive attention to detail is going to convince her otherwise. In fact, his constant meddling is threatening to destroy her last shred of patience...or her defenses.
As past heartbreak and future dreams collide one momentous night, Jules and Tyler find themselves forced to set aside what they think they know about love. Because falling isn’t always the scariest part — sometimes love comes down to trusting the catch.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 8, 2021
12 people are currently reading
697 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Ewens
15 books191 followersTracy Ewens is the contemporary romance author of fifteen Love Story books.
She lives and writes in Arizona, has a dog named Jack, and takes her tea with almond milk.
Stop by www.tracyewens.com to sign up for updates and news.
She lives and writes in Arizona, has a dog named Jack, and takes her tea with almond milk.
Stop by www.tracyewens.com to sign up for updates and news.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
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April 28, 2021Love this cover so much! I will be with you soon 🤞
May 27, 2021
I need to preface this by disclosing that I haven’t read the rest of this series. That didn’t bother me at all while I was reading this book, but I am definitely going back to read the rest because this book was really great.
The story is excellent. The characters are sublime. The plot is fantastic. The setting is *chef’s kiss*. This is the sort of book that I IMMEDIATELY call my sister about. She already got her pre-order in. I love a good second chance. I love a bickering friends to lovers story I love a good single parent story. I love that the little girl is actually a character in this book. I hate single parent stories where the kid(s) are used as cute props and after thoughts. This book is not that way. Tracy Ewens does Bella justice.
Jules and Tyler are so precious. Absolutely adore them. This book is so good. I can’t honestly even tell you who I liked more, Tyler or Jules. They are both so great. They are so great together. All of the side characters are awesome. I cant wait to go back and read the rest of this series. I can tell this will be my favorite series of the summer!
-Sho
The story is excellent. The characters are sublime. The plot is fantastic. The setting is *chef’s kiss*. This is the sort of book that I IMMEDIATELY call my sister about. She already got her pre-order in. I love a good second chance. I love a bickering friends to lovers story I love a good single parent story. I love that the little girl is actually a character in this book. I hate single parent stories where the kid(s) are used as cute props and after thoughts. This book is not that way. Tracy Ewens does Bella justice.
Jules and Tyler are so precious. Absolutely adore them. This book is so good. I can’t honestly even tell you who I liked more, Tyler or Jules. They are both so great. They are so great together. All of the side characters are awesome. I cant wait to go back and read the rest of this series. I can tell this will be my favorite series of the summer!
-Sho
August 3, 2021
4.5 Stars
Merged review:
"It's funny how things anchor people in a storm. Like a boat, but more delicate and vital".
This was my first Tracy Ewens book but OH.MY.GOD. I absolutely loved this one. A huge smile never left my face while reading this one! Tyler was like the perfect man anyone could ever wish for and Jules was so strong, not like other sad and damsel in distress kind of heroines but brave ones who have everything in control. Bella, my cinnamon roll, such an adorable character. The story was so beautifully written that i completed the book in one sitting.
So Jules and Tyler have known each other for like forever, Tyler has been in love with Jules ever since and she on the other hand has coped up from a broken marriage with her beautiful daughter, Bella. She is like such an independent character that even though at times I was frustrated by her actions but still I couldn't help admiring her strength. Tyler was like a perfect boy with a sad backstory but everything in control and did whatever he could for his love. This book was so awesome, from the bickering , the romance, the mother-daughter bond and also, perks of living in a small town, everything was perfect. Can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
#tracyewens #NetGalley
Merged review:
"It's funny how things anchor people in a storm. Like a boat, but more delicate and vital".
This was my first Tracy Ewens book but OH.MY.GOD. I absolutely loved this one. A huge smile never left my face while reading this one! Tyler was like the perfect man anyone could ever wish for and Jules was so strong, not like other sad and damsel in distress kind of heroines but brave ones who have everything in control. Bella, my cinnamon roll, such an adorable character. The story was so beautifully written that i completed the book in one sitting.
So Jules and Tyler have known each other for like forever, Tyler has been in love with Jules ever since and she on the other hand has coped up from a broken marriage with her beautiful daughter, Bella. She is like such an independent character that even though at times I was frustrated by her actions but still I couldn't help admiring her strength. Tyler was like a perfect boy with a sad backstory but everything in control and did whatever he could for his love. This book was so awesome, from the bickering , the romance, the mother-daughter bond and also, perks of living in a small town, everything was perfect. Can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
#tracyewens #NetGalley
November 20, 2021
2.5 / 2 Stars
***HOOPLA Audio***
MC's: Jules and Tyler
Good narration by Xe Sands
The back and forth in Jules' thought process, in regards to Tyler, gave me whiplash...to the point I almost had to call 911 from my injury. She was constantly angry and argumentative, and mostly about the dumbest things. Poor Tyler couldn't do anything right and when he tried she'd turn on her bitter, snarky attitude. If I were Tyler I would have said "screw you" and moved on...she was too much work. Who the hell wants to deal with that constantly? It took Tyler 7 hours and 15 minutes in a 9 hour book to tell Jules he loved her, and who could blame him from being apprehensive. I liked most of the characters, but didn't care for Jules...she was too annoying with her refusal to ever love again. 🙄 She disregards Tyler's feelings, insists his love isn't real, it will change and he'll see he made a mistake in loving her. (Like her ex.) Jules had such a martyr's complex and was willing to take Tyler's knees out from under him. Then she was surprised he was leaving town and finding his own "safe" place. Seriously?
In the last handful of minutes of the audio Jules FINALLY "gets it". The HEA didn't make up for the emotional torture Jules put Tyler through.....
I try not to give up on books, so I stuck it out. I know I'm in the minority...but this didn't fulfill my book fantasy.
***HOOPLA Audio***
MC's: Jules and Tyler
Good narration by Xe Sands
The back and forth in Jules' thought process, in regards to Tyler, gave me whiplash...to the point I almost had to call 911 from my injury. She was constantly angry and argumentative, and mostly about the dumbest things. Poor Tyler couldn't do anything right and when he tried she'd turn on her bitter, snarky attitude. If I were Tyler I would have said "screw you" and moved on...she was too much work. Who the hell wants to deal with that constantly? It took Tyler 7 hours and 15 minutes in a 9 hour book to tell Jules he loved her, and who could blame him from being apprehensive. I liked most of the characters, but didn't care for Jules...she was too annoying with her refusal to ever love again. 🙄 She disregards Tyler's feelings, insists his love isn't real, it will change and he'll see he made a mistake in loving her. (Like her ex.) Jules had such a martyr's complex and was willing to take Tyler's knees out from under him. Then she was surprised he was leaving town and finding his own "safe" place. Seriously?
In the last handful of minutes of the audio Jules FINALLY "gets it". The HEA didn't make up for the emotional torture Jules put Tyler through.....
I try not to give up on books, so I stuck it out. I know I'm in the minority...but this didn't fulfill my book fantasy.
June 20, 2021
“Catch, A Love Story” by Tracy Ewens had good things going for it, but it also had a major glitch. This romance is about a divorced tour boat and fishing captain, Jules Bartlett living in a small coastal town with her 11 year old daughter, Bella. Jules is ever disgruntled but tries to forget her bitterness over her ex-husband cheating on her six years ago with their neighbor. The story was predictable yet straight forward. The readers would be interested in how Jules’s brother, Drake’s best friend since childhood, Tyler Pace would overcome all the terrible pitfalls in order to win Jules’s heart. He is clearly the underdog, but he is a fighter with a good heart.
The problem or glitch I spoke of earlier lies with all the obstacles the poor guy Tyler had to go through. The unrealistic walls built by Jules could not be jumped even by Carl Lewis. Jules’s behavior was rude, mean and nasty. I disliked this about her character and thought Tyler deserved better. I think the story suffers because of this. The author took Jules too far into the dark side. A total fool is the only person who would put up with her brow beating and sarcasm.
The author attempted to balance Jules’s warped outlook on love by showing the reader the love Jules had for her wonderful and smart daughter, Bella. This doesn’t work as well as it should because Bella is adorable, sweet, kind and a joy to be around—- who wouldn’t love this kid.
Jules is clueless to Tyler’s feelings, but everyone in this small town knows how the guy feels. Tyler as well as the reader is left abandoned by the irony of Jules. I wanted to scream at her the whole book. Example, Tyler flys to another state, goes to a swanky event he wasn’t invited to and risks humiliation just to bring Jules a package that will help her although she was the crazy customer who totally ignored the salesperson advice and left with the wrong item. What guy does that and not have deep feelings?
I continued to read this story because I loved Tyler, Drake, Auntie N, Bella and Jules’ parents. I even liked the boat crew characters. Unfortunately Jules (and the author’s vision of her) almost sunk this ship.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
The problem or glitch I spoke of earlier lies with all the obstacles the poor guy Tyler had to go through. The unrealistic walls built by Jules could not be jumped even by Carl Lewis. Jules’s behavior was rude, mean and nasty. I disliked this about her character and thought Tyler deserved better. I think the story suffers because of this. The author took Jules too far into the dark side. A total fool is the only person who would put up with her brow beating and sarcasm.
The author attempted to balance Jules’s warped outlook on love by showing the reader the love Jules had for her wonderful and smart daughter, Bella. This doesn’t work as well as it should because Bella is adorable, sweet, kind and a joy to be around—- who wouldn’t love this kid.
Jules is clueless to Tyler’s feelings, but everyone in this small town knows how the guy feels. Tyler as well as the reader is left abandoned by the irony of Jules. I wanted to scream at her the whole book. Example, Tyler flys to another state, goes to a swanky event he wasn’t invited to and risks humiliation just to bring Jules a package that will help her although she was the crazy customer who totally ignored the salesperson advice and left with the wrong item. What guy does that and not have deep feelings?
I continued to read this story because I loved Tyler, Drake, Auntie N, Bella and Jules’ parents. I even liked the boat crew characters. Unfortunately Jules (and the author’s vision of her) almost sunk this ship.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
June 22, 2021
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Iwas initially concerned when I saw this was part of a series I was previously unfamiliar with, but this book definitely works as a standalone.
Jules is a fiercely independent single mom who is also the only female fishing boat captain in California. She has thick skin and takes no shit from anyone. Since her divorce and return back to her hometown, she has let her focus stay on work and on raising her daughter, Bella.
Tyler grew up with Jules, and is the best friend of her brother. He and Jules are friends, but tend to banter back and forth. Tyler had a rough upbringing and is now trying to get his alcoholic father the help he needs. Because of his difficult childhood, Tyler has a tendency to try and solve everyone else's problems.
This friends-to-lovers story is a fairly slow burn. Tyler ends up swooping in to help Jules with a last minute problem and they can no longer deny their chemistry. Jules tries to say it's just a physical thing,but Tyler calls her out. I like that the traditional gender roles are reversed in this story. I also loved how much Tyler cared about Bella, and how he was concerned about how she could be affected if he and Jules got together.
With Jules, I loved that she read one of my favorite romance novels, Take A Hint, Dani Brown, and tried to take cues from that MC. I loved getting to read about the process of her finding herself again, making friends, and finally stepping out from just being a mom to reclaiming herself as a woman.
This was a quick read, but it did have some heavy plot lines. TW for alcoholism, childhood poverty, and infidelity. Even so, I would certainly read more by this author.
Iwas initially concerned when I saw this was part of a series I was previously unfamiliar with, but this book definitely works as a standalone.
Jules is a fiercely independent single mom who is also the only female fishing boat captain in California. She has thick skin and takes no shit from anyone. Since her divorce and return back to her hometown, she has let her focus stay on work and on raising her daughter, Bella.
Tyler grew up with Jules, and is the best friend of her brother. He and Jules are friends, but tend to banter back and forth. Tyler had a rough upbringing and is now trying to get his alcoholic father the help he needs. Because of his difficult childhood, Tyler has a tendency to try and solve everyone else's problems.
This friends-to-lovers story is a fairly slow burn. Tyler ends up swooping in to help Jules with a last minute problem and they can no longer deny their chemistry. Jules tries to say it's just a physical thing,but Tyler calls her out. I like that the traditional gender roles are reversed in this story. I also loved how much Tyler cared about Bella, and how he was concerned about how she could be affected if he and Jules got together.
With Jules, I loved that she read one of my favorite romance novels, Take A Hint, Dani Brown, and tried to take cues from that MC. I loved getting to read about the process of her finding herself again, making friends, and finally stepping out from just being a mom to reclaiming herself as a woman.
This was a quick read, but it did have some heavy plot lines. TW for alcoholism, childhood poverty, and infidelity. Even so, I would certainly read more by this author.
June 30, 2021
Well, this was an unexpectedly amazing romance novel. Catch is about Jules and Tyler. Jules is a divorcee with a young daughter, while Tyler is her brother's best friend. The catch is, Tyler has been secretly in love with Jules for a few years. Is Jules ready to open her heart again?
Let's first talk about these two fantastic protagonists. Jules is a strong-willed fishing boat captain with a sharp tongue and a fierce love for her daughter. Her character development was so relatable, as we see her struggle throughout the book with her feelings for Tyler and her fear of committing to someone again. Meanwhile, Tyler is Mr Fix It - trying to fix his alcoholic father and anything else he can with the money he worked very hard for. Underneath the suit exterior though, Tyler is a total sweetheart and his love for Jules' daughter, Bella will undoubtedly melt your heart.
Now, let's talk about all the other things I loved about this book:
- Great character development
- Grumpy her/sunshine him
- Perfect chemistry between Tyler and Jules
- Dual perspectives (we know we love to see it in a romance).
- Bella, the cutest and most insightful kid.
- Good pacing - I never felt like the book lagged.
- The fact Jules was reading Dani Brown throughout the book and talked about Dani like she was a wing-woman. It was awesome 👏🏻.
FYI, Catch features minimal steam and a few swear words. This is also just one love story in a long list of novels written by Tracy Ewens. From experience, you don't need to read the others prior to the Catch, but I, for one, will definitely be going back to read more.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Tracy Ewens for the ARC in exchange for this honest review.
Let's first talk about these two fantastic protagonists. Jules is a strong-willed fishing boat captain with a sharp tongue and a fierce love for her daughter. Her character development was so relatable, as we see her struggle throughout the book with her feelings for Tyler and her fear of committing to someone again. Meanwhile, Tyler is Mr Fix It - trying to fix his alcoholic father and anything else he can with the money he worked very hard for. Underneath the suit exterior though, Tyler is a total sweetheart and his love for Jules' daughter, Bella will undoubtedly melt your heart.
Now, let's talk about all the other things I loved about this book:
- Great character development
- Grumpy her/sunshine him
- Perfect chemistry between Tyler and Jules
- Dual perspectives (we know we love to see it in a romance).
- Bella, the cutest and most insightful kid.
- Good pacing - I never felt like the book lagged.
- The fact Jules was reading Dani Brown throughout the book and talked about Dani like she was a wing-woman. It was awesome 👏🏻.
FYI, Catch features minimal steam and a few swear words. This is also just one love story in a long list of novels written by Tracy Ewens. From experience, you don't need to read the others prior to the Catch, but I, for one, will definitely be going back to read more.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Tracy Ewens for the ARC in exchange for this honest review.
December 17, 2021
*
free copy provided for a review
*
okay, before I begin this review I wanna tell you a story.
I was reading this when I zoned out and started thinking about a completely unrelated book, "Take a Hint, Dani Brown." then, I flipped the page and BAM. the main character mentioned that exact book. like... what're the odds? am I a prophet?
however funky that coincidence was, then she mentioned it 30 more times, not even joking, and it lost its charm.
as for the book itself, it was very cute in the beginning, but for the second half of it it was just the trope of:
guy: I love you!
girl: but I don't love you!
guy: but I love you so much!
girl: leave me alone I can't love you and I don't!
before, unsurprisingly, they get together.
yeah, I really hate that trope, it sucks.
I thought the characters of this novel were good but the romance really wasn't. not because it was toxic or boring but because it felt so, so one-sided.
idk! maybe there are some people who enjoy that trope? if so, add this to your tbr, I suppose. :b
okay, before I begin this review I wanna tell you a story.
I was reading this when I zoned out and started thinking about a completely unrelated book, "Take a Hint, Dani Brown." then, I flipped the page and BAM. the main character mentioned that exact book. like... what're the odds? am I a prophet?
however funky that coincidence was, then she mentioned it 30 more times, not even joking, and it lost its charm.
as for the book itself, it was very cute in the beginning, but for the second half of it it was just the trope of:
guy: I love you!
girl: but I don't love you!
guy: but I love you so much!
girl: leave me alone I can't love you and I don't!
before, unsurprisingly, they get together.
yeah, I really hate that trope, it sucks.
I thought the characters of this novel were good but the romance really wasn't. not because it was toxic or boring but because it felt so, so one-sided.
idk! maybe there are some people who enjoy that trope? if so, add this to your tbr, I suppose. :b
March 30, 2022
Perhaps i was waiting for the right time because nothing else explains why i waited months to read this. This was outright adorable and a very enjoyable read , even if the female lead was bit on annoying side before she herself realises how wrong she had been in her blind pursuit of being independence. But it was frustrating at times to see her act so headstrong stupid. Tyler is such a perfect male lead and i loved him that he finally had the courage to say he is not sorry for his money because he earned it. I am so interested to read more about this small town and other characters around these two..
September 29, 2021
I have not read previous books in the series, but I did not mind at all, this book can be standalone.
The beginning was a little slow and I was quite bored, but then after some point, I could not put it down, I enjoyed this book so much, but something was a cliché.
After all, it was a really cute story and I recommended this book to everyone who likes nice and cute romances.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you.
The beginning was a little slow and I was quite bored, but then after some point, I could not put it down, I enjoyed this book so much, but something was a cliché.
After all, it was a really cute story and I recommended this book to everyone who likes nice and cute romances.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you.
July 14, 2025
This story talks about second chances. It is a friend to love story.The characters have different personalities and it can make the story a bit difficult to enjoy. I did not like Jules because of her behavior. Besides that I enjoyed the romance it had. The guy is very in love with her and he would do anything to be able to be with her. And he shows it throughout the story how much he is interested in her and cares. He does things that other people wouldn’t do for someone they didn’t like. I do believe that everyone deserves someone to love and be loved. And the author was able to present that in the story. It is a very straightforward story and the author does a good job in wiring about the different emotions each character has.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
August 15, 2025
A divorced mother (of one amazing daughter) too fearful of loving too much ever again does not see the friend since childhood loving her for years. The story follows this very challenged path of growth to love with a very talented Xe Sands narrating. This is a first Tracy Ewens book for me. Although I frequently wanted to mentally shake our FMC, I am going to look for more Tracy Ewens stories.
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September 25, 2025Slow burn near the end. It could have had a little more dramatic effect. Typical Hallmark love story. The end was quick.
June 13, 2021
4.5 stars
“He was in love with her from a safe distance with fish guts, but this was so extra he could feel his heart clanging in his chest”
Thanks so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Set in a small fishing town somewhere on the Californian coast, Catch by Tracy Ewens is romance between a fishing boat captain Jules and business owner Tyler. Jules is a divorcee with an eleven year old daughter, Bella, who has been living at home and running her family’s business for 6 years since she left Bella’s father. Tyler is a close friend of the family, her brother’s best friend and man with sad childhood that pushed him to excel and rescue everyone.
Clearly based around the pining hero trope, this book starts with an uneasy friendship and ends with adoration. Tyler knows his feelings from several years before the start of book, but this book is about Jules and opening her heart to him. It is full of stumbles and one or two misteps, but the characters are really good people and you are alongside them celebrating their developing relationship. I love romances that realistically involve tertiary characters. Catch is full of realistic third characters including Bella (some of the best feminism happens while talking to Bella for both main characters), Juliet’s family, Tyler’s family and the town.
If there was one thing I’d change, I’d put more time with Jules on the water and in her natural habitat of her fishing vessel. This is probably a bit niche and comes from my personal past as a mariner. I love that Jules is a boat’s captain and deals with the often main dominated sea life by her self. I just really love boats and would happily have heard more about the daily running – but I get that’s not very romantic.
This book was a slow burn, it spends a lot of time world building and love building. Then just before the fabulous HEA, it twists your poor heart muscle. It’s the kind of book that starts slow but builds until you’re sad the romance is over. I shed real tears while I read this book, it wasn’t heartbreaking but it was heart wrenching for a little while. A book based around a pining man, there’s a long ‘will she or won’t she’ feeling that had me wanting to take the heroine aside and give her my long list of reasons why the hero was perfect for her.
This was a relatively sweet book, the characters had sex but lengthy descriptions were not included. I love to balance my reading between sweet and smutty, so I’m totally enamoured with this obok. Readers that are hard on the ‘no sex between unmarried couples’ or the ‘sexy scenes make the book’ may not enjoy it as much as I did.
It terms of content warnings on this book for alcoholism and parent failure because of a significant subplot between the Tyler and his father. Additionally, it may be obvious because Jules is a divorcee with a daughter but some conversations between mother and daughter may be confronting for people who have experienced them.
While reading this Tracy Ewens earned a new fan. While I’m not a series reader I will be reading the romances of Jules’ two siblings Sistine and Drake, featured in Tap (Sistine) and Blow (Drake), at my next opportunity.
This review also appears on Amazon.com.
“He was in love with her from a safe distance with fish guts, but this was so extra he could feel his heart clanging in his chest”
Thanks so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Set in a small fishing town somewhere on the Californian coast, Catch by Tracy Ewens is romance between a fishing boat captain Jules and business owner Tyler. Jules is a divorcee with an eleven year old daughter, Bella, who has been living at home and running her family’s business for 6 years since she left Bella’s father. Tyler is a close friend of the family, her brother’s best friend and man with sad childhood that pushed him to excel and rescue everyone.
Clearly based around the pining hero trope, this book starts with an uneasy friendship and ends with adoration. Tyler knows his feelings from several years before the start of book, but this book is about Jules and opening her heart to him. It is full of stumbles and one or two misteps, but the characters are really good people and you are alongside them celebrating their developing relationship. I love romances that realistically involve tertiary characters. Catch is full of realistic third characters including Bella (some of the best feminism happens while talking to Bella for both main characters), Juliet’s family, Tyler’s family and the town.
If there was one thing I’d change, I’d put more time with Jules on the water and in her natural habitat of her fishing vessel. This is probably a bit niche and comes from my personal past as a mariner. I love that Jules is a boat’s captain and deals with the often main dominated sea life by her self. I just really love boats and would happily have heard more about the daily running – but I get that’s not very romantic.
This book was a slow burn, it spends a lot of time world building and love building. Then just before the fabulous HEA, it twists your poor heart muscle. It’s the kind of book that starts slow but builds until you’re sad the romance is over. I shed real tears while I read this book, it wasn’t heartbreaking but it was heart wrenching for a little while. A book based around a pining man, there’s a long ‘will she or won’t she’ feeling that had me wanting to take the heroine aside and give her my long list of reasons why the hero was perfect for her.
This was a relatively sweet book, the characters had sex but lengthy descriptions were not included. I love to balance my reading between sweet and smutty, so I’m totally enamoured with this obok. Readers that are hard on the ‘no sex between unmarried couples’ or the ‘sexy scenes make the book’ may not enjoy it as much as I did.
It terms of content warnings on this book for alcoholism and parent failure because of a significant subplot between the Tyler and his father. Additionally, it may be obvious because Jules is a divorcee with a daughter but some conversations between mother and daughter may be confronting for people who have experienced them.
While reading this Tracy Ewens earned a new fan. While I’m not a series reader I will be reading the romances of Jules’ two siblings Sistine and Drake, featured in Tap (Sistine) and Blow (Drake), at my next opportunity.
This review also appears on Amazon.com.
June 22, 2021
thank you netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this beautiful book, initially I was attracted to it just because the cover screamed at me.
i did enjoy the small town, friends to lovers romance that it did had, the storyline didn't really capture my attention. The characters are very likeable and relatable. its definitely the single mom romance everyone needs in their lives.
Jules is such a strongwilled and independent mom who has been burned by her ex-husband that she doesnt see what is right in front of her, enter Tyler the man who fixes everything without having to be asked, in love with Jules since he's practically known her and loves her daughter like she is his own. Bella Jule's daughter is such a fun and spunky 11 year old who just want everyone to get along and be happy.
this book is definitely a real slow burn, it takes its time building up the romance and it really twists your heart in pain with half of their moments together because they both are way too afraid to take that chance, and Tyler would give anything just as long as jules asked. my heart wrenched when he was going through all of the emotions with her and he hadnt even told her his true feelings yet.
this book is definitely worth it especially if you like romcoms with angst and moments that make you laugh out loud, also there is a book club invovled and Jules is reading take a hint dani brown, and she relates herself to dani. i just loved that being added through the storyline.
I also know ill be at least reading Blow in this series as it is the book about Jules' brother falling in love.
Merged review:
thank you netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this beautiful book, initially I was attracted to it just because the cover screamed at me.
i did enjoy the small town, friends to lovers romance that it did had, the storyline didn't really capture my attention. The characters are very likeable and relatable. its definitely the single mom romance everyone needs in their lives.
Jules is such a strongwilled and independent mom who has been burned by her ex-husband that she doesnt see what is right in front of her, enter Tyler the man who fixes everything without having to be asked, in love with Jules since he's practically known her and loves her daughter like she is his own. Bella Jule's daughter is such a fun and spunky 11 year old who just want everyone to get along and be happy.
this book is definitely a real slow burn, it takes its time building up the romance and it really twists your heart in pain with half of their moments together because they both are way too afraid to take that chance, and Tyler would give anything just as long as jules asked. my heart wrenched when he was going through all of the emotions with her and he hadnt even told her his true feelings yet.
this book is definitely worth it especially if you like romcoms with angst and moments that make you laugh out loud, also there is a book club invovled and Jules is reading take a hint dani brown, and she relates herself to dani. i just loved that being added through the storyline.
I also know ill be at least reading Blow in this series as it is the book about Jules' brother falling in love.
i did enjoy the small town, friends to lovers romance that it did had, the storyline didn't really capture my attention. The characters are very likeable and relatable. its definitely the single mom romance everyone needs in their lives.
Jules is such a strongwilled and independent mom who has been burned by her ex-husband that she doesnt see what is right in front of her, enter Tyler the man who fixes everything without having to be asked, in love with Jules since he's practically known her and loves her daughter like she is his own. Bella Jule's daughter is such a fun and spunky 11 year old who just want everyone to get along and be happy.
this book is definitely a real slow burn, it takes its time building up the romance and it really twists your heart in pain with half of their moments together because they both are way too afraid to take that chance, and Tyler would give anything just as long as jules asked. my heart wrenched when he was going through all of the emotions with her and he hadnt even told her his true feelings yet.
this book is definitely worth it especially if you like romcoms with angst and moments that make you laugh out loud, also there is a book club invovled and Jules is reading take a hint dani brown, and she relates herself to dani. i just loved that being added through the storyline.
I also know ill be at least reading Blow in this series as it is the book about Jules' brother falling in love.
Merged review:
thank you netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this beautiful book, initially I was attracted to it just because the cover screamed at me.
i did enjoy the small town, friends to lovers romance that it did had, the storyline didn't really capture my attention. The characters are very likeable and relatable. its definitely the single mom romance everyone needs in their lives.
Jules is such a strongwilled and independent mom who has been burned by her ex-husband that she doesnt see what is right in front of her, enter Tyler the man who fixes everything without having to be asked, in love with Jules since he's practically known her and loves her daughter like she is his own. Bella Jule's daughter is such a fun and spunky 11 year old who just want everyone to get along and be happy.
this book is definitely a real slow burn, it takes its time building up the romance and it really twists your heart in pain with half of their moments together because they both are way too afraid to take that chance, and Tyler would give anything just as long as jules asked. my heart wrenched when he was going through all of the emotions with her and he hadnt even told her his true feelings yet.
this book is definitely worth it especially if you like romcoms with angst and moments that make you laugh out loud, also there is a book club invovled and Jules is reading take a hint dani brown, and she relates herself to dani. i just loved that being added through the storyline.
I also know ill be at least reading Blow in this series as it is the book about Jules' brother falling in love.
September 7, 2021
A modern day fairy tale with a twist…
Life is not always easy, as Juliet Bartlett and Tyler Pace can well attest, with pain and scars most often inflicted by those closest. This harsh reality has dissolved the magic of love and a happily-ever-after causing them to pour their energy into their work and responsibilities as a way to manage their feelings and protect their hearts. While their ordeals are hard to forget; they’re even harder to keep from coloring everything going forward and influencing choices and decisions. Jules and Tyler are familiar with each other’s pasts having grown up together, Tyler is Jules’ older brother’s best friend who spend a significant amount of time with their family due to his horrible home life. Their lives are even more intertwined since they both moved back to Bodega Bay, CA; revolving around their love and care for Jule’s eleven year old daughter, Bella, as they continue a relationship marked by their sarcastic banter while keeping each other at arm’s length emotionally. But love has a mind of its own and they soon learn that love is not something that can be managed, like their work, when it decides to write them in its fairy tale.
“The problem with feelings was that unlike tasks, they couldn’t be added and deleted as quickly as he would like. Feelings stuck and made a mess.”
Tracy Ewens has written a refreshingly, unconventional contemporary romance in Catch: A Love Story. Jules is not your traditional female lead. She is a tall, athletic woman who captains her own fleet of commercial fishing boats. Some might even paint her as unfeminine with her dominant personality and caustic tongue, sharpened by her circumstances, yet there is a soft, even fragile, side that is evident in her interactions with those closest to her, especially her precious daughter, Belle. An especially perceptive child, Belle brings out the best in the adults around her, forcing both Jules and Tyler to constantly re-evaluate their predilections towards relationships and especially their feelings towards each other.
Catch: A Love Story might seem to follow a predictable plot line: antagonistic friends fight a mutual attraction, run scared from the realization that they care deeply for this other person, only to come to the realization that they can’t live without each other. Yet the story’s unique characters and introspection puts a highly creative and entertaining twist on this common trope. While I couldn’t help disliking Jules’ blunt and abrasive delivery with Tyler, who was loyal and longsuffering on so many fronts with her, it was fitting considering she used that persona as a shield for her bruised and battered heart. Her personality also made the audacious ending, of the princess sweeping in on the white horse to save the day, that much more believable. If you are looking for a great summer read, Catch: A Love Story by Tracy Ewens might just fit the bill.
Life is not always easy, as Juliet Bartlett and Tyler Pace can well attest, with pain and scars most often inflicted by those closest. This harsh reality has dissolved the magic of love and a happily-ever-after causing them to pour their energy into their work and responsibilities as a way to manage their feelings and protect their hearts. While their ordeals are hard to forget; they’re even harder to keep from coloring everything going forward and influencing choices and decisions. Jules and Tyler are familiar with each other’s pasts having grown up together, Tyler is Jules’ older brother’s best friend who spend a significant amount of time with their family due to his horrible home life. Their lives are even more intertwined since they both moved back to Bodega Bay, CA; revolving around their love and care for Jule’s eleven year old daughter, Bella, as they continue a relationship marked by their sarcastic banter while keeping each other at arm’s length emotionally. But love has a mind of its own and they soon learn that love is not something that can be managed, like their work, when it decides to write them in its fairy tale.
“The problem with feelings was that unlike tasks, they couldn’t be added and deleted as quickly as he would like. Feelings stuck and made a mess.”
Tracy Ewens has written a refreshingly, unconventional contemporary romance in Catch: A Love Story. Jules is not your traditional female lead. She is a tall, athletic woman who captains her own fleet of commercial fishing boats. Some might even paint her as unfeminine with her dominant personality and caustic tongue, sharpened by her circumstances, yet there is a soft, even fragile, side that is evident in her interactions with those closest to her, especially her precious daughter, Belle. An especially perceptive child, Belle brings out the best in the adults around her, forcing both Jules and Tyler to constantly re-evaluate their predilections towards relationships and especially their feelings towards each other.
Catch: A Love Story might seem to follow a predictable plot line: antagonistic friends fight a mutual attraction, run scared from the realization that they care deeply for this other person, only to come to the realization that they can’t live without each other. Yet the story’s unique characters and introspection puts a highly creative and entertaining twist on this common trope. While I couldn’t help disliking Jules’ blunt and abrasive delivery with Tyler, who was loyal and longsuffering on so many fronts with her, it was fitting considering she used that persona as a shield for her bruised and battered heart. Her personality also made the audacious ending, of the princess sweeping in on the white horse to save the day, that much more believable. If you are looking for a great summer read, Catch: A Love Story by Tracy Ewens might just fit the bill.
July 6, 2021
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC of this book.
I have to be honest here, but the only reason I wanted to read this book is because I love the cover so much. I don't even think I read the synopsis which is unusual for me. Sure I love covers of books, but that is not usually the only thing I look at when choosing a book to read. So when the ARC popped up for me I sat down and thought I would read a bit and see how it goes. Only I stayed up way too late finishing this wonderful read! I am usually careful to not read at night unless I know I can finish a book before my bedtime, but I did that thing where I lied to myself and said just one more chapter before I watch some TV or something to wind down for the night. And next thing I knew I had finished the book and looked at my watch and wondered how it got to be so late. To me that is the mark of a really amazing read. One where you are so into the world and the story the author created you don't even notice the time passing. Oh, it was great.
This is the first book from this author I have read, but I definitely need to go read the rest of the books in this series! It didn't feel like I was missing anything not knowing the characters beforehand, but I am excited to read more of the stories now!
This is the story of Jules and Tyler. Jules who never wants to be in love again as she saw what can happen when it doesn't work out, and Tyler who is Jules' brother's best friend and has been in love with Jules for years now. Jules is super prickly, but you get it. Yes, there were a few scenes where she was really rude, one in particular you knew how it was going to work out in the end, but I still wanted her to find her magic again. To figure out that you can love again and it can be wonderful. I still wanted everything for her.
And Tyler? Oh, he was a sweetheart. Based on his home life he tries to control and manage everything. He even tries to manage his feelings for Jules because he knows they will freak her out and he doesn't want to lose her or her daughter Bella. They are everything to him so his plan is to manage and be happy with what he has. Only that of course doesn't work out the way he plans and oh, I loved him so much. He is so wonderful with everyone, especially Jules and Bella. I loved reading this story and watching everything play out. These two are perfect for each other and oh, it made me feel all the feels. I can't wait to read more from this author!
I have to be honest here, but the only reason I wanted to read this book is because I love the cover so much. I don't even think I read the synopsis which is unusual for me. Sure I love covers of books, but that is not usually the only thing I look at when choosing a book to read. So when the ARC popped up for me I sat down and thought I would read a bit and see how it goes. Only I stayed up way too late finishing this wonderful read! I am usually careful to not read at night unless I know I can finish a book before my bedtime, but I did that thing where I lied to myself and said just one more chapter before I watch some TV or something to wind down for the night. And next thing I knew I had finished the book and looked at my watch and wondered how it got to be so late. To me that is the mark of a really amazing read. One where you are so into the world and the story the author created you don't even notice the time passing. Oh, it was great.
This is the first book from this author I have read, but I definitely need to go read the rest of the books in this series! It didn't feel like I was missing anything not knowing the characters beforehand, but I am excited to read more of the stories now!
This is the story of Jules and Tyler. Jules who never wants to be in love again as she saw what can happen when it doesn't work out, and Tyler who is Jules' brother's best friend and has been in love with Jules for years now. Jules is super prickly, but you get it. Yes, there were a few scenes where she was really rude, one in particular you knew how it was going to work out in the end, but I still wanted her to find her magic again. To figure out that you can love again and it can be wonderful. I still wanted everything for her.
And Tyler? Oh, he was a sweetheart. Based on his home life he tries to control and manage everything. He even tries to manage his feelings for Jules because he knows they will freak her out and he doesn't want to lose her or her daughter Bella. They are everything to him so his plan is to manage and be happy with what he has. Only that of course doesn't work out the way he plans and oh, I loved him so much. He is so wonderful with everyone, especially Jules and Bella. I loved reading this story and watching everything play out. These two are perfect for each other and oh, it made me feel all the feels. I can't wait to read more from this author!
May 24, 2021
Tracy Ewens, ‘Catch’.
A Love Story.
As an Hidden Gems ARC reader I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily promised an honest review. Here it is.
Rating: 5 (of 5 stars).
In general: From Bickering Friends to Lovers.
Main characters:
- Jules Bartlett.
She’s a single mom. Years ago she married a smooth talking good looking business man from a big city. He cheated on her and they divorced. Her daughter Ella was the only good thing that remained of her marriage. Broken and jobless she returned to her hometown, Bodego Bay, with her daughter.
Now she is the co-owner of the family shipping company. The company has two ships for fishing and trips with tourists. Jules is captain of the flagship.
- Tyler Pace.
Now he’s the business partner of Drake, Jules’ brother. They own BP Glassworks and a successful investment company. It made them wealthy men.
But Tyler had a poor youth. The Bartlett family had helped him and his younger brother enormously during his bad childhood with an alcoholic dad and a mother who left her husband and children.
Since his teenager years he had a secret crush on Jules but kept it a secret when she married a cheating husband and got a daughter, Ella, he adored. He’s afraid that courting and dating Jules could damage their friendship.
Jules also secretly admires Tyler’s good looks and his care for Bella. But after her divorce she wants no more men in her life. She loves her independence and - deep inside her - she’s afraid to get hurt again. However, Tyler she knows from her youth and she learned that he’s a good man. So there’s a lot of (mostly good-natured) bickering between the two old acquaintances.
The author, Tracy Ewens, then describes how gradually Jules realizes that perhaps love is possible between her and Tyler. Over the years I’ve read a lot of novels in which hesitating partners found a permanent, love relationship. The way Tracy Ewens tells this process this time is outstanding: original, with a lot of insight and feeling.
It’s a great book. I often forgot the time while reading.
R. Huiszoon.
A Love Story.
As an Hidden Gems ARC reader I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily promised an honest review. Here it is.
Rating: 5 (of 5 stars).
In general: From Bickering Friends to Lovers.
Main characters:
- Jules Bartlett.
She’s a single mom. Years ago she married a smooth talking good looking business man from a big city. He cheated on her and they divorced. Her daughter Ella was the only good thing that remained of her marriage. Broken and jobless she returned to her hometown, Bodego Bay, with her daughter.
Now she is the co-owner of the family shipping company. The company has two ships for fishing and trips with tourists. Jules is captain of the flagship.
- Tyler Pace.
Now he’s the business partner of Drake, Jules’ brother. They own BP Glassworks and a successful investment company. It made them wealthy men.
But Tyler had a poor youth. The Bartlett family had helped him and his younger brother enormously during his bad childhood with an alcoholic dad and a mother who left her husband and children.
Since his teenager years he had a secret crush on Jules but kept it a secret when she married a cheating husband and got a daughter, Ella, he adored. He’s afraid that courting and dating Jules could damage their friendship.
Jules also secretly admires Tyler’s good looks and his care for Bella. But after her divorce she wants no more men in her life. She loves her independence and - deep inside her - she’s afraid to get hurt again. However, Tyler she knows from her youth and she learned that he’s a good man. So there’s a lot of (mostly good-natured) bickering between the two old acquaintances.
The author, Tracy Ewens, then describes how gradually Jules realizes that perhaps love is possible between her and Tyler. Over the years I’ve read a lot of novels in which hesitating partners found a permanent, love relationship. The way Tracy Ewens tells this process this time is outstanding: original, with a lot of insight and feeling.
It’s a great book. I often forgot the time while reading.
R. Huiszoon.
June 7, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, author Tracy Ewens, and publisher for giving me a free arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 stars
While this was my first book that I have read in this series, it will not be my last,
The was a beautifully written single mom romance with one of my favorite troupes siblings best friend/friends to lovers. All the characters were so well developed and showed growth throughout the entire book. I loved how much Tyler cared for Jules despite her hard exterior as well as the love he had for Bella, Jules' 11 year-old daughter. Tyler seemed to have made something of himself despite his not so good childhood and the continual struggles with his alcoholic dad. I enjoyed while he became wealthy, the money did not go to his head, but used it to help the community that gave him so much as a child. He never lack in his devotion to Jules. He was always patiently by her side throughout the years being what ever she needed him to be. Jules was such a strong woman. I appreciated how much she wanted to protect Bella from the uglier side of her ex getting married to the woman he created on Jules with (i.e. her best friend). I absolutely loved Tyler and Jules' friendship dynamic. Their banter and comfort they had with each other made their chemistry and shift from a friendship to a romantic relationship made it that much more passionate. Bella was such a lovely character. She really had a lot of understanding of some of the more complexities of the relationships of those of her parents, friends, and family. I loved the mother-daughter bond Jules and Bella had. The writing and the pacing were very well done. It had me finishing this book in not time at all. Then ending was so sweet! Overall, I can't believe I have never read any books by this author before. She is a fantastic writer! I would recommend this book to those who are looking for a wonderful friends-to-lovers/sibling's best friend romance with a sweetheart of a hero and a strong take-no-nonsense heroine. I can't wait to read the previous books in this series.
5 stars
While this was my first book that I have read in this series, it will not be my last,
The was a beautifully written single mom romance with one of my favorite troupes siblings best friend/friends to lovers. All the characters were so well developed and showed growth throughout the entire book. I loved how much Tyler cared for Jules despite her hard exterior as well as the love he had for Bella, Jules' 11 year-old daughter. Tyler seemed to have made something of himself despite his not so good childhood and the continual struggles with his alcoholic dad. I enjoyed while he became wealthy, the money did not go to his head, but used it to help the community that gave him so much as a child. He never lack in his devotion to Jules. He was always patiently by her side throughout the years being what ever she needed him to be. Jules was such a strong woman. I appreciated how much she wanted to protect Bella from the uglier side of her ex getting married to the woman he created on Jules with (i.e. her best friend). I absolutely loved Tyler and Jules' friendship dynamic. Their banter and comfort they had with each other made their chemistry and shift from a friendship to a romantic relationship made it that much more passionate. Bella was such a lovely character. She really had a lot of understanding of some of the more complexities of the relationships of those of her parents, friends, and family. I loved the mother-daughter bond Jules and Bella had. The writing and the pacing were very well done. It had me finishing this book in not time at all. Then ending was so sweet! Overall, I can't believe I have never read any books by this author before. She is a fantastic writer! I would recommend this book to those who are looking for a wonderful friends-to-lovers/sibling's best friend romance with a sweetheart of a hero and a strong take-no-nonsense heroine. I can't wait to read the previous books in this series.
June 14, 2021
I adored this story - and not just because of the gorgeous cover! Jules is a commercial fishing boat captain, single mom, and all around tough cookie. She moved back to her hometown seven years before after a devastating divorce. She's built herself back up and is completely dedicated to do things on her own and raising her daughter. When we start the book Jules is one hell of a dislikable person. She is incredibly close to her family and they support her without question. But - she's really stuck in place while everyone around her is changing and moving forward. Tracy Ewans displayed some mad author skills by making me see how freaking difficult Jules was - without making me hate her guts.
Tyler grew up with Jules - and is best friends with her brother - but in the last three years he has fallen completely in love with her. He hasn't told her about his feelings - and it seems like she is pretty much the only person who doesn't know. Tyler is the town fixer. He's worked hard to make a lot of money and uses it all to help everyone around him (including the companies he is working with). He is so incredibly kind and is trying so hard. It is an emotional journey to see him learn that not everything in life can be fixed.
Watching Jules was almost physically painful at times - because she was resisting change and her own feelings so hard. You could see that she was clinging so fiercely to status quo as a means to avoiding any pain - all the while missing out on what she could have. I loved the journey both she and Tyler go on. I especially loved how completed Tracy Ewans showed all sides of the characters - she doesn't shy away from the not as pretty sides. Jules's interactions with her ex are a prime example - you can see that although his infidelity ended their relationship, it certainly wasn't the only thing that ended them.
Overall - I highly recommend this - this book will give you all the feelings and has an incredibly satisfying romance.
I will give a couple of trigger warnings tho including infidelity and alcoholism in a parent.
I was very lucky to receive this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
Tyler grew up with Jules - and is best friends with her brother - but in the last three years he has fallen completely in love with her. He hasn't told her about his feelings - and it seems like she is pretty much the only person who doesn't know. Tyler is the town fixer. He's worked hard to make a lot of money and uses it all to help everyone around him (including the companies he is working with). He is so incredibly kind and is trying so hard. It is an emotional journey to see him learn that not everything in life can be fixed.
Watching Jules was almost physically painful at times - because she was resisting change and her own feelings so hard. You could see that she was clinging so fiercely to status quo as a means to avoiding any pain - all the while missing out on what she could have. I loved the journey both she and Tyler go on. I especially loved how completed Tracy Ewans showed all sides of the characters - she doesn't shy away from the not as pretty sides. Jules's interactions with her ex are a prime example - you can see that although his infidelity ended their relationship, it certainly wasn't the only thing that ended them.
Overall - I highly recommend this - this book will give you all the feelings and has an incredibly satisfying romance.
I will give a couple of trigger warnings tho including infidelity and alcoholism in a parent.
I was very lucky to receive this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
May 31, 2021
3.5/5 There were a lot of good things about this book, and it was a quick, enjoyable read, and I was instantly drawn to the cover art. There were also a few traits in both main characters that I really could have done without.
Jules Bartlett is a statuesque beauty with an amazing work ethic, her own company of fishing tour boats, a broken heart, and a high-society cheater of an ex-husband that left her a daughter and a chip on her shoulder. Tyler Pace is the perfect man: a self-made millionaire with brains, looks, humility, and a hero complex borne of the shitty upbringing he survived as the poor kid from a broken home.
The premise is straightforward and the story meshes the tropes of the cheated-on divorcee single-mother and brother’s best friend romance. It’s a well-written, typical ‘enemies’ to lovers story, though in this case enemies is just bickering life-long friends who argue constantly and take jabs at one another at every opportunity. It was refreshing to see the clichéd commitment-phobic, self-sabotage behaviour attributed to the female lead, and also see Ewens turn the Prince Charming narrative on its head.
The fishing town setting was welcoming and quaint, and the supporting cast of stereotypical small-town characters - neighbours, gossipy aunties, and nosy mothers - all added to the charm of the story.
The only aspect I didn’t like was how long they dragged the will-they-won’t-they romance. This book was always going to be a HEA ending, so it became frustrating when they carried on both MCs insecurities and fears about 20% too long to hold up the ending we knew was coming.
Altogether a good book and one I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a quick romcom.
*Thanks to HiddenGemBooks and Tracy Ewens for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jules Bartlett is a statuesque beauty with an amazing work ethic, her own company of fishing tour boats, a broken heart, and a high-society cheater of an ex-husband that left her a daughter and a chip on her shoulder. Tyler Pace is the perfect man: a self-made millionaire with brains, looks, humility, and a hero complex borne of the shitty upbringing he survived as the poor kid from a broken home.
The premise is straightforward and the story meshes the tropes of the cheated-on divorcee single-mother and brother’s best friend romance. It’s a well-written, typical ‘enemies’ to lovers story, though in this case enemies is just bickering life-long friends who argue constantly and take jabs at one another at every opportunity. It was refreshing to see the clichéd commitment-phobic, self-sabotage behaviour attributed to the female lead, and also see Ewens turn the Prince Charming narrative on its head.
The fishing town setting was welcoming and quaint, and the supporting cast of stereotypical small-town characters - neighbours, gossipy aunties, and nosy mothers - all added to the charm of the story.
The only aspect I didn’t like was how long they dragged the will-they-won’t-they romance. This book was always going to be a HEA ending, so it became frustrating when they carried on both MCs insecurities and fears about 20% too long to hold up the ending we knew was coming.
Altogether a good book and one I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a quick romcom.
*Thanks to HiddenGemBooks and Tracy Ewens for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2021
When I first went into this book and realized it was part of a series, I was a little worried I would be lost. However, once I started reading (and looked into Goodreads about the other books) I realized it is companion series! It was so easy jumping into the world of Bodega Bay and the Branch family.
Jules is a single mother who had a world shattering divorce from her daughter's father six years ago. Jules is the captain of two fishing boats. She is strong and tall woman who is adamant about being independent, even if some think of her as bitter or grumpy.
Her family and the dynamics between her parents, brother, and friends is what makes this book so fun! But it is the romance aspect that draws you in.
Tyler is Jules' brother's best friend and has been a part of the Branch family since childhood. His childhood was not the best, but he has worked hard to make his way to the top while keeping his sincerity and humbleness. His own family and personal situations could not be easily managed or "fixed", so it is a personality trait of his to fix things, to fix people.
Tyler loves Jules, and everyone knows it. Except Jules.
She is a character who has shut herself from love because she thinks another heartbreak can not only destroy her, but everything she has tried to maintain since picking herself and her daughter up six years ago.
This story was fun and I felt for Tyler and Jules the whole way through. The dialogue is what kept me reading! I loved the family dynamics and the sarcastic banter between Tyler and Jules. This is a romance, but spice is kept PG, but the butterflies are still there. Overall, it was a great read and I can't wait to go back and read some more of this series so I can get to know the other character more!
"Adults need magic too. They need to risk when necessary and laugh and play."
Jules is a single mother who had a world shattering divorce from her daughter's father six years ago. Jules is the captain of two fishing boats. She is strong and tall woman who is adamant about being independent, even if some think of her as bitter or grumpy.
Her family and the dynamics between her parents, brother, and friends is what makes this book so fun! But it is the romance aspect that draws you in.
Tyler is Jules' brother's best friend and has been a part of the Branch family since childhood. His childhood was not the best, but he has worked hard to make his way to the top while keeping his sincerity and humbleness. His own family and personal situations could not be easily managed or "fixed", so it is a personality trait of his to fix things, to fix people.
Tyler loves Jules, and everyone knows it. Except Jules.
She is a character who has shut herself from love because she thinks another heartbreak can not only destroy her, but everything she has tried to maintain since picking herself and her daughter up six years ago.
This story was fun and I felt for Tyler and Jules the whole way through. The dialogue is what kept me reading! I loved the family dynamics and the sarcastic banter between Tyler and Jules. This is a romance, but spice is kept PG, but the butterflies are still there. Overall, it was a great read and I can't wait to go back and read some more of this series so I can get to know the other character more!
"Adults need magic too. They need to risk when necessary and laugh and play."
September 16, 2021
Though I wasn't sure what to expect, and contemporary is not my go-to genre, I was immediately hooked (no pun intended) by this story of the relationship between a fishing boat captain and her brother's best friend.
Tyler Pace fell in love with Jules Bartlett long before she became a divorced single mother. He's a reliable friend to her and her daughter Bella, but Jules's prickly nature keeps him at arms length and he begins to doubt she will ever be ready to risk her heart again. In Jules's mind there are two major strikes against this local boy who made good - he has money and a tendency to use it to swoop in and fix things. Obstacles abound and past trauma is very present, as Tyler's alcoholic father's health fails and Jules is invited to the wedding of her ex-husband and the friend he cheated with.
Set in the town of Bodega Bay, California, this is such a slice of life story - from the supportive friends and wonderful families, to the small town community in this story of two people who have known each other all of their lives finding love - albeit with vastly different timing.
What a surprise this story was - through the ups and downs of this relationship, as the narrative switches between perspectives, I was all in and left at the end with a desire to read more of this series. I do enjoy a mature romance, and these are the type of characters that feel like people you might really want to know. Recommended with a note that this salty slow burn contemporary is an open door romance with cursing as a natural feature of language in the narrative as well as the dialogue.
This review refers to a temporary digital copy that I voluntarily read through NetGalley, courtesy of the author. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
Tyler Pace fell in love with Jules Bartlett long before she became a divorced single mother. He's a reliable friend to her and her daughter Bella, but Jules's prickly nature keeps him at arms length and he begins to doubt she will ever be ready to risk her heart again. In Jules's mind there are two major strikes against this local boy who made good - he has money and a tendency to use it to swoop in and fix things. Obstacles abound and past trauma is very present, as Tyler's alcoholic father's health fails and Jules is invited to the wedding of her ex-husband and the friend he cheated with.
Set in the town of Bodega Bay, California, this is such a slice of life story - from the supportive friends and wonderful families, to the small town community in this story of two people who have known each other all of their lives finding love - albeit with vastly different timing.
What a surprise this story was - through the ups and downs of this relationship, as the narrative switches between perspectives, I was all in and left at the end with a desire to read more of this series. I do enjoy a mature romance, and these are the type of characters that feel like people you might really want to know. Recommended with a note that this salty slow burn contemporary is an open door romance with cursing as a natural feature of language in the narrative as well as the dialogue.
This review refers to a temporary digital copy that I voluntarily read through NetGalley, courtesy of the author. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
July 1, 2021
*I received this book as a digital ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Catch: A Love Story is the THIRTEENTH book in Ewen’s Love Story series, but it can be read as a stand alone without any issue. I actually didn’t realize this was a part of a series when I requested it or even when I read the first few chapters, honestly. It was only when I went to mark it as “currently reading” that I realized, and thank heavens for that because I will definitely be catching up on the other Branch siblings' love lives.
This romance feels raw and real and grown up. I love an uber cheesy romance as much as the next guy, but I don’t love the childish way a lot of them tend to portray their characters - sort of delusional and thinking they’re slightly better than others while simultaneously putting others down.
Catch focuses on Jules, a divorcee whose main focus is making sure her daughter is loved and safe. If she’s a little bitter because her ex-husband cheated on her seven years ago, she tries not to let on. (She’s not successful, but she tries). Tyler, her brother’s best friend/business partner, and a guy she’s known for years and who’s basically a part of her family, is in love with her although he tries not to show it. (He’s not successful, but he tries). Tyler is a fixer - a manager of all things: businesses, feelings, his dad. He knows that he can’t let Jules know how he feels because it result in him losing Jules and Bella, Jules’ daughter and certified glitter princess.
Alas, the crab boat ride to love never does flow smooth, and emotions have a tendency to not be managed.
5 stars. Super cute and real and please read it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Catch: A Love Story is the THIRTEENTH book in Ewen’s Love Story series, but it can be read as a stand alone without any issue. I actually didn’t realize this was a part of a series when I requested it or even when I read the first few chapters, honestly. It was only when I went to mark it as “currently reading” that I realized, and thank heavens for that because I will definitely be catching up on the other Branch siblings' love lives.
This romance feels raw and real and grown up. I love an uber cheesy romance as much as the next guy, but I don’t love the childish way a lot of them tend to portray their characters - sort of delusional and thinking they’re slightly better than others while simultaneously putting others down.
Catch focuses on Jules, a divorcee whose main focus is making sure her daughter is loved and safe. If she’s a little bitter because her ex-husband cheated on her seven years ago, she tries not to let on. (She’s not successful, but she tries). Tyler, her brother’s best friend/business partner, and a guy she’s known for years and who’s basically a part of her family, is in love with her although he tries not to show it. (He’s not successful, but he tries). Tyler is a fixer - a manager of all things: businesses, feelings, his dad. He knows that he can’t let Jules know how he feels because it result in him losing Jules and Bella, Jules’ daughter and certified glitter princess.
Alas, the crab boat ride to love never does flow smooth, and emotions have a tendency to not be managed.
5 stars. Super cute and real and please read it.
July 11, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley and Tracy Ewens for a free e-copy in exchange for a review
Catch: A Love Story by Tracy Ewens is the perfect summer beach romance which follows Jules Barlett, single divorcee mum, trying her best to create the best life for herself and her daughter, and Tyler Pace - small town boy turns successful cityman CEO. Being a close friend of the family, Tyler and Jules have grown up together, theyve seen all stages of each others lives, and feel they know each other very well. The one thing Jules didn't know? That Tyler has always been in love with her. The book is a friends to lovers story, with lots of banter, flirting and some very.... intimate scenes.
Jules is a very strong independent women. Theres honestly nothing to not like about this character. She detests the idea of having to rely on someone else, to trust someone else to take care of her heart. In this story, Jules is the hero, and she doesnt need anyone else to save her. Particularly not Mr fix it Tyler Pace.
" I have an aversion to princesses proving themselves to princes. Not a fan of fairytales in general"
Tyler is a character who on the surface we should hate. Hes rich, cocky and constantly trying to fix others problems with money. However through dialogue and monologues we learn how life wasnt always this easy and that growing up came with its challenges, which made Tyler the man he is today.
There is not much to say on the plot of this book. Its a typical "will they wont they" romance, but that doesnt mean its not worth a read. The book had me wanting to keep reading more, smiling like an idiot and rooting for the end result. I would highly recomend picking this book up for a easy light read.
" I like you Jules Bartlett"
"kiss my ass Tyler."
Thanks to NetGalley and Tracy Ewens for a free e-copy in exchange for a review
Catch: A Love Story by Tracy Ewens is the perfect summer beach romance which follows Jules Barlett, single divorcee mum, trying her best to create the best life for herself and her daughter, and Tyler Pace - small town boy turns successful cityman CEO. Being a close friend of the family, Tyler and Jules have grown up together, theyve seen all stages of each others lives, and feel they know each other very well. The one thing Jules didn't know? That Tyler has always been in love with her. The book is a friends to lovers story, with lots of banter, flirting and some very.... intimate scenes.
Jules is a very strong independent women. Theres honestly nothing to not like about this character. She detests the idea of having to rely on someone else, to trust someone else to take care of her heart. In this story, Jules is the hero, and she doesnt need anyone else to save her. Particularly not Mr fix it Tyler Pace.
" I have an aversion to princesses proving themselves to princes. Not a fan of fairytales in general"
Tyler is a character who on the surface we should hate. Hes rich, cocky and constantly trying to fix others problems with money. However through dialogue and monologues we learn how life wasnt always this easy and that growing up came with its challenges, which made Tyler the man he is today.
There is not much to say on the plot of this book. Its a typical "will they wont they" romance, but that doesnt mean its not worth a read. The book had me wanting to keep reading more, smiling like an idiot and rooting for the end result. I would highly recomend picking this book up for a easy light read.
" I like you Jules Bartlett"
"kiss my ass Tyler."
June 30, 2021
I was completely taken by surprise while reading Catch! I thought that I would be a bit lost not having read anything else in the series, but this totally works as a standalone.
Jules Bartlett is a tough, take-no-shit captain of Branch Fishing boats where she takes tourists out to go fishing and where she catches crabs for her parents’ B&B. After being divorced for six years, Jules comes to terms (somewhat) of simply raising her daughter Bella alone without a man to help her. Her brother’s best friend, Tyler Pace, has been secretly in love with her for years. He’s rich and went out to the “big city” to make a career for himself but comes back to Bodega Bay more and more to fix things up (and to spend more time with a certain someone). Since Jules and Tyler grew up together, their romance comes with all the years of hardship that the two have had to deal with.
I enjoyed this book! I really thought that I wouldn’t since the beginning is kind of slow, but after a certain point I couldn’t put it down. I thought it was super fun, and even though it was a bit cliché, I still was on the edge of my seat waiting for something to happen between Jules and Tyler. Overall great book and I would recommend!
Jules is such a badass character and I loved every bit of her. I also of course loved Bella for being such a witty kid. I think what made me a bit mad when reading this was how quick things changed at the end?? I don't want to spoil anything, but that part lost me a bit. But, I think it's still worth it to see some great characters and have a cute romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book!
Jules Bartlett is a tough, take-no-shit captain of Branch Fishing boats where she takes tourists out to go fishing and where she catches crabs for her parents’ B&B. After being divorced for six years, Jules comes to terms (somewhat) of simply raising her daughter Bella alone without a man to help her. Her brother’s best friend, Tyler Pace, has been secretly in love with her for years. He’s rich and went out to the “big city” to make a career for himself but comes back to Bodega Bay more and more to fix things up (and to spend more time with a certain someone). Since Jules and Tyler grew up together, their romance comes with all the years of hardship that the two have had to deal with.
I enjoyed this book! I really thought that I wouldn’t since the beginning is kind of slow, but after a certain point I couldn’t put it down. I thought it was super fun, and even though it was a bit cliché, I still was on the edge of my seat waiting for something to happen between Jules and Tyler. Overall great book and I would recommend!
Jules is such a badass character and I loved every bit of her. I also of course loved Bella for being such a witty kid. I think what made me a bit mad when reading this was how quick things changed at the end?? I don't want to spoil anything, but that part lost me a bit. But, I think it's still worth it to see some great characters and have a cute romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book!
October 30, 2022
**I received the book through NetGalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed it. All opinions are my own. I also had to have my own hard copy to hug and cherish.**
It's been a while that a book has made me this giddy. I was sighing, gasping, and twirling around in my office chair. I wish I could read this for the first time again.
Jules is the captain of Branching Fishing boats and is living the life she expected, not the fairy tale that swept her off her feet. She is a loving mother, a strong and confident individual, but her failed marriage has her shunning romantic relationships. Her moments of self-doubt broke my heart. I despised her ex for what he did.
Tyler has been in love with Jules for nearly as long as he can remember. His difficult past and his friendship with her brother–along with being practically part of her family–have always felt like barriers too looming to overcome to pursue her. He is swoony in the best way possible and made even more appealing because of how much he adores Jules’s daughter Bella. I was utterly enamored with him throughout the book because of his patience and kindness.
Catch: A Love Story is Tyler and Jules’s chance at love with each other. Eren captures perfectly how the past still has a way of asserting itself even when you’ve worked hard to leave it where it belongs. I appreciated the switch in roles with Jules being the grump and Tyler more sunshine than not with this penchant for trying to fix things. The book requires some patience--it's a slow burn--but well worth it. The ending was more than I could ask for.
It's been a while that a book has made me this giddy. I was sighing, gasping, and twirling around in my office chair. I wish I could read this for the first time again.
Jules is the captain of Branching Fishing boats and is living the life she expected, not the fairy tale that swept her off her feet. She is a loving mother, a strong and confident individual, but her failed marriage has her shunning romantic relationships. Her moments of self-doubt broke my heart. I despised her ex for what he did.
Tyler has been in love with Jules for nearly as long as he can remember. His difficult past and his friendship with her brother–along with being practically part of her family–have always felt like barriers too looming to overcome to pursue her. He is swoony in the best way possible and made even more appealing because of how much he adores Jules’s daughter Bella. I was utterly enamored with him throughout the book because of his patience and kindness.
Catch: A Love Story is Tyler and Jules’s chance at love with each other. Eren captures perfectly how the past still has a way of asserting itself even when you’ve worked hard to leave it where it belongs. I appreciated the switch in roles with Jules being the grump and Tyler more sunshine than not with this penchant for trying to fix things. The book requires some patience--it's a slow burn--but well worth it. The ending was more than I could ask for.
June 11, 2021
I received a copy from Hidden Gems; this is my honest review.
-If the author could stop holding a carrot in front of us and make her stories shorter, I would have given this one a nice 4.5.
-There is too much frustrating drama on Juliet's part. I mean, even if Juliet had to go through all that she did, did we have to know all the details? I had given up around 50% because wow. I reread the blurb to make sure the ending was HEA. At 82%, J is still thinking "wasn't ready to love Tyler Pace".
-I thought the whole scene about titles was inappropriate for the book. It didn't add anything either. Sounded more personal too.
-I absolutely loved the super entrance Tyler made at Wayne's rehearsal. It did ticked off Wayne on top of everything else. But the fact that W. wanted Jules to comment on his wedding - and not telling in advance no less - was the weirdest thing ever. Who does that? I think W regrets his choice and only married again because of the bomb he dropped afterwards.
-Another spot that irritated me was how Jules was taking care of Bella. Too much, like keeping her in a box. Lying to her - that kid needs the truth when asking a question. Tucking her in when she's 11? Yeah, I don't see that happening in real life.
-I almost cried at 85% because Tyler just then realized he was nothing to Jules Bartlett. Nothing.
-I loved seeing the Branch family again and realize Drake was so much better.
-If the author could stop holding a carrot in front of us and make her stories shorter, I would have given this one a nice 4.5.
-There is too much frustrating drama on Juliet's part. I mean, even if Juliet had to go through all that she did, did we have to know all the details? I had given up around 50% because wow. I reread the blurb to make sure the ending was HEA. At 82%, J is still thinking "wasn't ready to love Tyler Pace".
-I thought the whole scene about titles was inappropriate for the book. It didn't add anything either. Sounded more personal too.
-I absolutely loved the super entrance Tyler made at Wayne's rehearsal. It did ticked off Wayne on top of everything else. But the fact that W. wanted Jules to comment on his wedding - and not telling in advance no less - was the weirdest thing ever. Who does that? I think W regrets his choice and only married again because of the bomb he dropped afterwards.
-Another spot that irritated me was how Jules was taking care of Bella. Too much, like keeping her in a box. Lying to her - that kid needs the truth when asking a question. Tucking her in when she's 11? Yeah, I don't see that happening in real life.
-I almost cried at 85% because Tyler just then realized he was nothing to Jules Bartlett. Nothing.
-I loved seeing the Branch family again and realize Drake was so much better.
August 7, 2021
Thank you to Tracy Ewens, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
My rating: 4/5 stars
Okay, so this is my first time reading a book by Tracy Ewens, I'm really drawn by the cover and the synopsis of Catch: A Love Story! I was really worried when I found out that this book is a part of a series, but thank God that this can be read as a standalone.
I didn't expect to enjoy this book so much? Some of my favorite tropes are here in this book, slow-burn romance, strong and independent women MC, and friends-to-lovers!
The atmosphere of the small town is also great! What I love the most is the character! Jules is a hard-working single mother who also works as the only female captain in the town. Tyler is the best friend of Jules's brother, so apparently, Jules and Tyler grow up together (which is very cute pls). Tyler has to deal with his alcoholic father while maintaining his work. Their romance is just so sweet (thanks to Tyler mainly), the fast-pacing is also great!
Although I have to admit I was really frustrated by Jules's behavior at the end, I keep saying "WHY DO YOU HAVE TO DO THAT JULES?" but well, it's forgiven :)
I will keep my eyes and tbr list for more Tracy Ewens's books!
My rating: 4/5 stars
Okay, so this is my first time reading a book by Tracy Ewens, I'm really drawn by the cover and the synopsis of Catch: A Love Story! I was really worried when I found out that this book is a part of a series, but thank God that this can be read as a standalone.
I didn't expect to enjoy this book so much? Some of my favorite tropes are here in this book, slow-burn romance, strong and independent women MC, and friends-to-lovers!
The atmosphere of the small town is also great! What I love the most is the character! Jules is a hard-working single mother who also works as the only female captain in the town. Tyler is the best friend of Jules's brother, so apparently, Jules and Tyler grow up together (which is very cute pls). Tyler has to deal with his alcoholic father while maintaining his work. Their romance is just so sweet (thanks to Tyler mainly), the fast-pacing is also great!
Although I have to admit I was really frustrated by Jules's behavior at the end, I keep saying "WHY DO YOU HAVE TO DO THAT JULES?" but well, it's forgiven :)
I will keep my eyes and tbr list for more Tracy Ewens's books!
December 28, 2021
When I got this book, I definitely didn't expect it to be what it was. And I'm so grateful for it! I'm in a romance novels vibe lately, and this was definitely one of the best I've read in a while.
First, I gotta talk about Jules. She's great, very aware of her strenghts and weaknesses, the kind of main character you love in the first page of reading their thoughts. Sometimes she was a little stubborn, but who isn't? Especially with everything she felt was under her responsibility, it all made sense, and it was really nice to see how she evolved throughout the story.
Tyler was just as delightful to read. It's always nice to see the male character completely dumbstruck everytime he sees the woman he loves, and he was a very layered character, with his own issues and also very aware of them.
Maybe my favorite thing about this book was the family environment surrounding it. Even though the focus was on the love story (as is the series' name), it was very clear from the beggining that this was also a family story. Not perfect families, but real ones, with real issues and effects on the characters' lives, but also very important for their growth. Family love played a big part in it, and I just loved it.
Overall, it was a great read, which motivated me to go look for the author's other stories right away.
First, I gotta talk about Jules. She's great, very aware of her strenghts and weaknesses, the kind of main character you love in the first page of reading their thoughts. Sometimes she was a little stubborn, but who isn't? Especially with everything she felt was under her responsibility, it all made sense, and it was really nice to see how she evolved throughout the story.
Tyler was just as delightful to read. It's always nice to see the male character completely dumbstruck everytime he sees the woman he loves, and he was a very layered character, with his own issues and also very aware of them.
Maybe my favorite thing about this book was the family environment surrounding it. Even though the focus was on the love story (as is the series' name), it was very clear from the beggining that this was also a family story. Not perfect families, but real ones, with real issues and effects on the characters' lives, but also very important for their growth. Family love played a big part in it, and I just loved it.
Overall, it was a great read, which motivated me to go look for the author's other stories right away.
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