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Bear Valley #1
Forever Mann
Alternative cover for asin B09396XSR2
Jack: Family. Bear Valley. Work.
My life is full. I wouldn’t mind finding someone to share these things with, but finding something that fits is harder than it looks. But, then Perrin Thayer moves to Bear Valley and fits so right - in all the ways - I can’t help but fall hard for the sexy C.R.N.A.
Perrin: Hospitals. Skiing. Travel.
I’ve been gone from the U.S. for five years of some long soul-searching. I want a permanent life somewhere. And I want it with a guy like Jack. But, when my past shows up in Bear Valley, I’m not sure if Jack and I can get through it for a future on the other side.
Forever Mann is the first book in the Bear Valley series. Bear Valley follows the Mann brothers: Jack, Quinn, Matt, and Baylor. Each book can be read as stand-alone, but are enjoyed best when read in order. The series is intended for mature audiences only, 18-plus.
Bear Valley is a contemporary romance, there are no Bear shifters in Bear Valley.
Forever Mann has elements of hurt-comfort, sexy times, a guaranteed HEA, no cheating or sharing.
Trigger warning: does contain description of a prior manipulative/abusive relationship of one MC. There is some on-page description of being in an abusive/manipulative relationship.
Jack: Family. Bear Valley. Work.
My life is full. I wouldn’t mind finding someone to share these things with, but finding something that fits is harder than it looks. But, then Perrin Thayer moves to Bear Valley and fits so right - in all the ways - I can’t help but fall hard for the sexy C.R.N.A.
Perrin: Hospitals. Skiing. Travel.
I’ve been gone from the U.S. for five years of some long soul-searching. I want a permanent life somewhere. And I want it with a guy like Jack. But, when my past shows up in Bear Valley, I’m not sure if Jack and I can get through it for a future on the other side.
Forever Mann is the first book in the Bear Valley series. Bear Valley follows the Mann brothers: Jack, Quinn, Matt, and Baylor. Each book can be read as stand-alone, but are enjoyed best when read in order. The series is intended for mature audiences only, 18-plus.
Bear Valley is a contemporary romance, there are no Bear shifters in Bear Valley.
Forever Mann has elements of hurt-comfort, sexy times, a guaranteed HEA, no cheating or sharing.
Trigger warning: does contain description of a prior manipulative/abusive relationship of one MC. There is some on-page description of being in an abusive/manipulative relationship.
542 pages, ebook
First published May 7, 2021
33 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
December 14, 2021
I snatched this book up because I love a series set up around families in small towns and this one is the first book. I hadn’t read anything by this author before. OMG this book absolutely killed me! I was not expecting this. This couple is amazing and I loved this story so much!!!!! I don’t put spoilers in reviews so no plot bunnies here but you have to read this. Jack and Perrin fall in love fast and hard; unable to deny their chemistry. But that is only part of this story!!! Do yourself a favor and read this book. If each book in this new series is as good as this one, I can’t wait!
May 11, 2021
La couverture, mais également le résumé, m'avaient séduite. J'ai décidé de laisser une chance à ce roman, bien que l'auteur me soit inconnue.
Dans cette série, nous allons suivre la famille Mann, dont chaque membre est responsable de pas mal de choses à Bear Valley. L'auteur nous offre l'histoire de Jack dans ce premier tome, et notamment sa rencontre avec Perrin, un nouveau venu.
Bon, je ne vais pas y aller par quatre chemins. Je n'ai pas accroché avec ce livre.
Je n'ai pas vraiment accroché avec les personnages déjà, du moins leur relation et la romance en fait. Je ne suis pas contre les insta love, j'aime bien, mais là, je crois qu'on est à un niveau au-dessus. Jack et Perrin se rencontrent, 2 minutes après ils se sautent dessus et 4 minutes après c'est l'amour avec un grand A, et je grossis à peine les choses. Si bien que j'étais complètement détachée d'eux et de leur couple.
Les révélations, plus ou moins, qui arrivent dans l'histoire m'ont fait lever les yeux au ciel. Évidemment, il fallait quelque chose pour meubler. Pour moi, ça ne l'a pas fait, mais pas du tout. Tout est trop « gros », trop « forcé » pour moi...
La plume de l'auteur reste agréable et l'esprit de famille et les liens fraternels entre les personnages sont très sympathiques, quoique parfois étouffants je trouvais.
Ce roman a l'air d'avoir de bons retours, donc cela doit venir probablement de moi... Mais bon, voilà...
Dans cette série, nous allons suivre la famille Mann, dont chaque membre est responsable de pas mal de choses à Bear Valley. L'auteur nous offre l'histoire de Jack dans ce premier tome, et notamment sa rencontre avec Perrin, un nouveau venu.
Bon, je ne vais pas y aller par quatre chemins. Je n'ai pas accroché avec ce livre.
Je n'ai pas vraiment accroché avec les personnages déjà, du moins leur relation et la romance en fait. Je ne suis pas contre les insta love, j'aime bien, mais là, je crois qu'on est à un niveau au-dessus. Jack et Perrin se rencontrent, 2 minutes après ils se sautent dessus et 4 minutes après c'est l'amour avec un grand A, et je grossis à peine les choses. Si bien que j'étais complètement détachée d'eux et de leur couple.
Les révélations, plus ou moins, qui arrivent dans l'histoire m'ont fait lever les yeux au ciel. Évidemment, il fallait quelque chose pour meubler. Pour moi, ça ne l'a pas fait, mais pas du tout. Tout est trop « gros », trop « forcé » pour moi...
La plume de l'auteur reste agréable et l'esprit de famille et les liens fraternels entre les personnages sont très sympathiques, quoique parfois étouffants je trouvais.
Ce roman a l'air d'avoir de bons retours, donc cela doit venir probablement de moi... Mais bon, voilà...
December 12, 2021
Amazing
Wow, this book was a lot more emotional than I thought it would be! Perrin has returned to the US after five years working abroad and is settling in Bear Valley. Jack is the eldest son in the Mann family and runs a number of the family businesses in town. Both have secrets and emotional trauma but can they work through this together and have a chance at forever?
I loved the depth of emotion and the detail that is there in both Jack and Perrin’s history. There may be triggers for some people through some of the historic trauma both men have gone through but this is such a good book. I was blown away by how detailed this was and how much emotion was in the pages. Absolutely amazing and will definitely make sure I read the rest of this series to find out how the rest of the Mann brothers find love.
Wow, this book was a lot more emotional than I thought it would be! Perrin has returned to the US after five years working abroad and is settling in Bear Valley. Jack is the eldest son in the Mann family and runs a number of the family businesses in town. Both have secrets and emotional trauma but can they work through this together and have a chance at forever?
I loved the depth of emotion and the detail that is there in both Jack and Perrin’s history. There may be triggers for some people through some of the historic trauma both men have gone through but this is such a good book. I was blown away by how detailed this was and how much emotion was in the pages. Absolutely amazing and will definitely make sure I read the rest of this series to find out how the rest of the Mann brothers find love.
May 7, 2021
4.5
I was totally amazed that this was a debut authors book. I was hooked from the first page. Aries created a fantastic world In Bear Valley. I fell in love with the Mann’s and Perrin.
Jack is really just going though life with his family and running the family business. He doesn’t have a special man on his life but does want someone. Let’s enter Perrin into his life. Instant connection. Perrin is definitely running but from what we don’t know. Both men are keeping secrets.
I loved watching this interaction with each other and Jacks family. They are super sexy together and have learned the most important thing in their relationship. TRUST. Their relationship flourishes as secrets are revealed and there is no one better to trust than in each other.
I am already excited and waiting for the next book. Bring it on
I was totally amazed that this was a debut authors book. I was hooked from the first page. Aries created a fantastic world In Bear Valley. I fell in love with the Mann’s and Perrin.
Jack is really just going though life with his family and running the family business. He doesn’t have a special man on his life but does want someone. Let’s enter Perrin into his life. Instant connection. Perrin is definitely running but from what we don’t know. Both men are keeping secrets.
I loved watching this interaction with each other and Jacks family. They are super sexy together and have learned the most important thing in their relationship. TRUST. Their relationship flourishes as secrets are revealed and there is no one better to trust than in each other.
I am already excited and waiting for the next book. Bring it on
dnf
August 16, 2023DNF 29%. It's not that it's bad. I'm just not feeling it.
March 28, 2025
this is my second time reading it and I still loved it. the family theme here is just so great and I loved how these two just fit together
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February 14, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/14/2022)! 🎁
May 27, 2021
Hmmm...
This is rough. Not just content, but also how to rate it and the book itself. It is like a diamond in the rough that could shine if a bit polished and shaped. My biggest trouble was the writing. The constant jumps, often mid-sentence from past tense to present tense and back, were confusing. It is either happening now and you write in the present, or it happened in the past and you are retelling the events that have already happened and the whole narrative is in the past. This is what I mean- "Jack laughed, and tickles the girl from where she is wrapped up in the other guy's arms", "I breathed out the relief I feel at that, surprised by the intensity". And there are many, many, many similar instances where author just cannot decide what tense it is, so muddles it all together and hopes for the best. Generally, I try to ignore these things, but this was a hard one to ignore, because the text just didn't go together, it didn't flow which is turn slowed down my reading and made it hard to focus on it. It felt disjointed and awkward. Same with some dialogues and scenes. Like the one where the family story is told behind the scenes. What story? Why is it told behind the scenes and not on page? What is the point of mentioning it at all, if the reader will not know of it and will only be given some bits and pieces afterwards? What was the point of that whole scene?
I did like the story. I am just not exactly a fan of the execution. I realize that for the first book, this is good, but at the same time I struggle to overcome how awkward and disjointed the writing was, both because of those constant grammar errors and because of half-finished scenes and random dialogues that seem to make no sense, like there is some context missing for it all to fit together and make sense. For such a long book, I really expected fuller and better explanations, smoother transitions between scenes and character interactions, as well as a better developed background that would set up the whole series. I didn't feel that. So while this might be a diamond in the rough, it is still very, very rough.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
This is rough. Not just content, but also how to rate it and the book itself. It is like a diamond in the rough that could shine if a bit polished and shaped. My biggest trouble was the writing. The constant jumps, often mid-sentence from past tense to present tense and back, were confusing. It is either happening now and you write in the present, or it happened in the past and you are retelling the events that have already happened and the whole narrative is in the past. This is what I mean- "Jack laughed, and tickles the girl from where she is wrapped up in the other guy's arms", "I breathed out the relief I feel at that, surprised by the intensity". And there are many, many, many similar instances where author just cannot decide what tense it is, so muddles it all together and hopes for the best. Generally, I try to ignore these things, but this was a hard one to ignore, because the text just didn't go together, it didn't flow which is turn slowed down my reading and made it hard to focus on it. It felt disjointed and awkward. Same with some dialogues and scenes. Like the one where the family story is told behind the scenes. What story? Why is it told behind the scenes and not on page? What is the point of mentioning it at all, if the reader will not know of it and will only be given some bits and pieces afterwards? What was the point of that whole scene?
I did like the story. I am just not exactly a fan of the execution. I realize that for the first book, this is good, but at the same time I struggle to overcome how awkward and disjointed the writing was, both because of those constant grammar errors and because of half-finished scenes and random dialogues that seem to make no sense, like there is some context missing for it all to fit together and make sense. For such a long book, I really expected fuller and better explanations, smoother transitions between scenes and character interactions, as well as a better developed background that would set up the whole series. I didn't feel that. So while this might be a diamond in the rough, it is still very, very rough.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
May 7, 2021
This book is brilliant! For most of the first half it lulled me into a sense of tranquility. Here I was, calmly turning the pages, enjoying what I thought simply a compelling relationship buildup between Jack and Perrin, and then WHAM! things took a dangerous turn I didn't see coming.
Jack and Perrin were attracted to each other from the first moment they met. They decided to act on it, no sense trying to hide the sparks they felt. That's pretty much what I liked about them together: they always talked, discussed things and set situation straight, avoiding miscommunications. At the beginning, they didn't label their relationship, but their lives became more and more entwined, undoubtedly partners in every aspect.
In few words, Jack's wonderful family that welcomed Perrine completely as one of them, Perrin and Jack were perfectly in sync, a few secrets disclosed that only enforced their trust... you know, a soothing romance that I was really enjoying. Family moments that warmed my heart, two men who just clicked emotionally and also burned the sheets together. And then Perrin's past came to ruin his present. All of the sudden, my peaceful read became dramatic and thrilling, my breath was shallow and I almost didn't turn the pages, afraid of what might happen next.
It was fabulous! I absolutely fell for all the Mann clan, for Jack and Perrin. The second half not only had my pulse spike up, but also made me all mushy when seeing the strength of Jack and Perrin's love. Also, the author offered a glimpse of the next book in the series and I'm already excited to read it.
Jack and Perrin were attracted to each other from the first moment they met. They decided to act on it, no sense trying to hide the sparks they felt. That's pretty much what I liked about them together: they always talked, discussed things and set situation straight, avoiding miscommunications. At the beginning, they didn't label their relationship, but their lives became more and more entwined, undoubtedly partners in every aspect.
In few words, Jack's wonderful family that welcomed Perrine completely as one of them, Perrin and Jack were perfectly in sync, a few secrets disclosed that only enforced their trust... you know, a soothing romance that I was really enjoying. Family moments that warmed my heart, two men who just clicked emotionally and also burned the sheets together. And then Perrin's past came to ruin his present. All of the sudden, my peaceful read became dramatic and thrilling, my breath was shallow and I almost didn't turn the pages, afraid of what might happen next.
It was fabulous! I absolutely fell for all the Mann clan, for Jack and Perrin. The second half not only had my pulse spike up, but also made me all mushy when seeing the strength of Jack and Perrin's love. Also, the author offered a glimpse of the next book in the series and I'm already excited to read it.
May 4, 2021
I enjoyed this book. It is not your typical man meets man. Men fall for each other. A little angst between them, then a happy ever after.
No, this is Perrin meets Jack.
Both feel an attraction that intensifies until they are inseparable. Unfortunately both men are keeping secrets that they fear will destroy their relationship.
When Jack plucks up the courage to tell his secret to Perrin, Perrin is all accepting and loving.
When Perrin eventually reveals his secret, Jack is just as understanding.
Unfortunately Perrin’s secret does not, and will not, stay in the past.
I received this book from GRR. This is my honest review.
No, this is Perrin meets Jack.
Both feel an attraction that intensifies until they are inseparable. Unfortunately both men are keeping secrets that they fear will destroy their relationship.
When Jack plucks up the courage to tell his secret to Perrin, Perrin is all accepting and loving.
When Perrin eventually reveals his secret, Jack is just as understanding.
Unfortunately Perrin’s secret does not, and will not, stay in the past.
I received this book from GRR. This is my honest review.
May 7, 2021
I adored this book!
It began slow. Like around 25 pages in, I was worried this would be a DNF. HOWEVER, it started to pick up and took me on a ride I was unprepared for! Jack and Perrin fell hard and fast and there were bits in there where I was worried they wouldn’t make it.
There are some heartbreaking moments. If a book can make me question if I’m having an anxiety attack, it’s a good book to me!
By the last few chapters, I knew these two were forever, and I was already anticipating more books in the series!!
Definitely a must read from this debut author!!
It began slow. Like around 25 pages in, I was worried this would be a DNF. HOWEVER, it started to pick up and took me on a ride I was unprepared for! Jack and Perrin fell hard and fast and there were bits in there where I was worried they wouldn’t make it.
There are some heartbreaking moments. If a book can make me question if I’m having an anxiety attack, it’s a good book to me!
By the last few chapters, I knew these two were forever, and I was already anticipating more books in the series!!
Definitely a must read from this debut author!!
December 19, 2021
very interesting and kept me guessing. it was well written with a good plot and good characters. very interesting storyline with these siblings...and i cant wait to read more of this series.
October 26, 2021
absolutely fabulous read
one of the best of 2021~!
one of the best of 2021~!
August 8, 2021
This had a lot of excitement, but the writing was pretty poor. The constant tense switches drove me crazy, and time seemed to have no meaning, either (it jumped forward or stayed in one place for far too long). I also didn't really appreciate all the telling (man, there was a lot of that too) -- both characters constantly 'told' their feelings and/or past during their POVs, and it got old.
The ending quarter was the most entertaining part, but even there, it wasn't fully fleshed out. Honestly, I think this could have been a great story if France had perhaps started the book at the 3/4 mark and wrote it solely as a romantic thriller. *shrug* I don't know if I'll pick up the next one or not.
The ending quarter was the most entertaining part, but even there, it wasn't fully fleshed out. Honestly, I think this could have been a great story if France had perhaps started the book at the 3/4 mark and wrote it solely as a romantic thriller. *shrug* I don't know if I'll pick up the next one or not.
June 8, 2023
This was a wonderful introduction book to this author. This is a great start to a new series with introductions to what seems to be a wonderful family and town. I loved the MC's and the powerful things they went through together. It was nice to see a developing relationship instead of insta-love. I can't wait until the rest of the series.
May 16, 2021
This wasn't exactly what I was expecting, but while this author's style isn't something I'd gravitate toward, I couldn't help but be insanely curious about the men of the Mann family. Each one is different, has their own trauma and needs, and are a part of a family and community that draws you in and threatens to keep you.
There was a lot of tense switching, something I struggle with myself, but it made for a confusing first few chapters. Likely this was the author getting their flow going and the voice set up, but it was jarring and difficult to follow until the story found its footing.
Drama didn't show up for a while, but when it did, it did so with a huge set of teeth. I thought it would have played more on the family side of the drama, Perrin's family, as the constant conversational evasions lead to a tense social gathering that forced out some answers, but while that was a passing moment that got absolutely no conclusion or resolution, the more serious drama came from Perrin's relationship and career history.
When it came it was pretty sudden and then it became a slow build up to a really big, violent climax. As the progress was on the periphery to catch the villain it also got a longer timeline. We followed along with Jack and a few moments with Perrin and though the view we got was more a glimpse each time of the progress, it was more believable plot-wise because no investigation with legal and FBI-type ramifications is over in a second.
Jack and Perrin were good, solid, and engaging, but I'm not sure they really packed a memorable punch. It was the story and plot rather than the men that keep me reading until the end. Though I have to say that the big question came from exactly who it should have come from. It was a fantastic way to bring them back from the trauma they both experienced and to show exactly where their path was going to lead them on the way forward. I will absolutely be back for Quinn and Bishop's story.
There was a lot of tense switching, something I struggle with myself, but it made for a confusing first few chapters. Likely this was the author getting their flow going and the voice set up, but it was jarring and difficult to follow until the story found its footing.
Drama didn't show up for a while, but when it did, it did so with a huge set of teeth. I thought it would have played more on the family side of the drama, Perrin's family, as the constant conversational evasions lead to a tense social gathering that forced out some answers, but while that was a passing moment that got absolutely no conclusion or resolution, the more serious drama came from Perrin's relationship and career history.
When it came it was pretty sudden and then it became a slow build up to a really big, violent climax. As the progress was on the periphery to catch the villain it also got a longer timeline. We followed along with Jack and a few moments with Perrin and though the view we got was more a glimpse each time of the progress, it was more believable plot-wise because no investigation with legal and FBI-type ramifications is over in a second.
Jack and Perrin were good, solid, and engaging, but I'm not sure they really packed a memorable punch. It was the story and plot rather than the men that keep me reading until the end. Though I have to say that the big question came from exactly who it should have come from. It was a fantastic way to bring them back from the trauma they both experienced and to show exactly where their path was going to lead them on the way forward. I will absolutely be back for Quinn and Bishop's story.
November 10, 2022
3 stars
Good book but maybe not for me.
I liked the main charcters, Perrin and Jack. The first part of the book is about their love story: they have great connection as lovers and also as friends. They don't talk about their relationship, they don't label it but they sleep in the same bed every night. Perrin finds himself more an more involved in the small town life and they are truly happy.
But the author repeatedly hints to something happened in their past, so there's always a kind of tension that didn't allow me to enjoy the story all the way.
When finally Jack shares his past with Perrin, he fears his rejection. But Perrin loves him very much and he hasn't got absolutely any intention to leave him. That part was really really beautiful.
But despite Jack's bravery to share his demons, Perrin doesn't do the same and I didn't like that Perrin wasn't able to talk about them: surely
The second part is more a thriller than a love story and that's the part I didn't really like: Perrin goes from a sexy, confident, smart man to a insecure, tormented one. Something didn't seem right to me, the FBI was demanding too much from him:
Jack's family is great, a lot of wonderful characters, except maybe for CJ: doesn't she have boundaries? What about the incessant questions to Perrin? I found her very rude, honestly.
The next book is about Quinn and Bishop, they are interesting characters, but I think I will put this series aside for now.
I'm sorry for potential grammar mistakes, I'm not a native english speaker.
Good book but maybe not for me.
I liked the main charcters, Perrin and Jack. The first part of the book is about their love story: they have great connection as lovers and also as friends. They don't talk about their relationship, they don't label it but they sleep in the same bed every night. Perrin finds himself more an more involved in the small town life and they are truly happy.
But the author repeatedly hints to something happened in their past, so there's always a kind of tension that didn't allow me to enjoy the story all the way.
When finally Jack shares his past with Perrin, he fears his rejection. But Perrin loves him very much and he hasn't got absolutely any intention to leave him. That part was really really beautiful.
But despite Jack's bravery to share his demons, Perrin doesn't do the same and I didn't like that Perrin wasn't able to talk about them: surely
The second part is more a thriller than a love story and that's the part I didn't really like: Perrin goes from a sexy, confident, smart man to a insecure, tormented one. Something didn't seem right to me, the FBI was demanding too much from him:
Jack's family is great, a lot of wonderful characters, except maybe for CJ: doesn't she have boundaries? What about the incessant questions to Perrin? I found her very rude, honestly.
The next book is about Quinn and Bishop, they are interesting characters, but I think I will put this series aside for now.
I'm sorry for potential grammar mistakes, I'm not a native english speaker.
August 26, 2022
I finished this book a few hours ago and have been trying to think how to express my feelings because it’s been awhile since a book has made me feel so much, but here goes!!
Perrin moves to Bear Valley after 5 years of working in Europe and instantly you see the chemistry between him and Jack.
Jack is part of the Mann family who basically own Bear Valley, he’s the CEO of the Mann Foundation. When Perrin walks into their hotel you can tell straight away something special is coming.
Both Perrin and Jack have suffered with some traumatic events in their past and neither have ever really given themselves to a relationship but that changes. Seeing their relationship grow is so beautiful it gave me goosebumps and filled me heart with so much joy!
It’s not just Perrin and Jacks relationship that makes this such a good read but the entirety of the Mann family and the community as a whole in Bear Valley. I want to live there in real life! I want my kids to grow up there with the open acceptance and love this community shares!
Perrin and Jacks relationship is like watching a flower 🌹 bloom, everyday those petals opening a little more and when it’s finally in full bloom it’s simply breathtaking!!
The story isn’t all sunshine and roses and Perrin’s past comes back to haunt him. They’re love for each other never falters though.
If you haven’t read this book, you’re missing out! I wrote this review bursting with love desperately waiting for my husband to come home from work so I could shower him with kisses, to remind him how much I love him.
I almost forgot to mention that this is one helluva sexy book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
Perrin moves to Bear Valley after 5 years of working in Europe and instantly you see the chemistry between him and Jack.
Jack is part of the Mann family who basically own Bear Valley, he’s the CEO of the Mann Foundation. When Perrin walks into their hotel you can tell straight away something special is coming.
Both Perrin and Jack have suffered with some traumatic events in their past and neither have ever really given themselves to a relationship but that changes. Seeing their relationship grow is so beautiful it gave me goosebumps and filled me heart with so much joy!
It’s not just Perrin and Jacks relationship that makes this such a good read but the entirety of the Mann family and the community as a whole in Bear Valley. I want to live there in real life! I want my kids to grow up there with the open acceptance and love this community shares!
Perrin and Jacks relationship is like watching a flower 🌹 bloom, everyday those petals opening a little more and when it’s finally in full bloom it’s simply breathtaking!!
The story isn’t all sunshine and roses and Perrin’s past comes back to haunt him. They’re love for each other never falters though.
If you haven’t read this book, you’re missing out! I wrote this review bursting with love desperately waiting for my husband to come home from work so I could shower him with kisses, to remind him how much I love him.
I almost forgot to mention that this is one helluva sexy book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
May 11, 2021
Jack and Perrin’s instant chemistry is fun while they’re dancing (or skiing) around each other, but it’s scorching hot when they start hooking up. Their easy physical compatibility is matched by a deep emotional connection, although both are warier, for a variety of reasons, about what that might mean than they are about the physical attraction. The process by which they evolve from hookups to friends with benefits, to more, is augmented by the setting, which is luxurious (both Jack and Perrin are more than comfortably 1%, so this is a novel about people with money to burn, and it shows) and by Jack’s family: his awesome mothers and his vibrant, opinionated, clearly destined to have novels of their own siblings.
There is a lot packed into this story, and it’s mostly rewarding to watch the guys reveal various pieces of information about each of their pasts to each other, and to see how their relationship grows and solidifies accordingly. The revelations are never light, but the stakes are dramatically upped about ¾ of the way through the novel by the reappearance of a man from Perrin’s past, to the degree that it changed the tenor of the story for me, and it became less a realistic contemporary romance and more of a romantic suspense/melodrama. That shift wasn’t my favorite thing, but by that point I was so invested in Jack and Perrin’s relationship that I was solidly along for the ride. Overall, an enjoyable read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
There is a lot packed into this story, and it’s mostly rewarding to watch the guys reveal various pieces of information about each of their pasts to each other, and to see how their relationship grows and solidifies accordingly. The revelations are never light, but the stakes are dramatically upped about ¾ of the way through the novel by the reappearance of a man from Perrin’s past, to the degree that it changed the tenor of the story for me, and it became less a realistic contemporary romance and more of a romantic suspense/melodrama. That shift wasn’t my favorite thing, but by that point I was so invested in Jack and Perrin’s relationship that I was solidly along for the ride. Overall, an enjoyable read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
September 3, 2022
I read this book in between ARCs and I am so glad I found time to do so!
Jack and Perrin both think they don’t know how to do relationships. Their last respective attempts ended badly. The two have instant chemistry, yet skirt around labeling whatever their connection is as more time passes.
“Forever Mann” reminded me of a soap opera! I had no idea that I would come to that realization when I started it. This book has some of the feels of shows like Dallas or Days of Our Lives and I was totally here for it! Aries France sets up Bear Valley so well, it’s like you are there. It totally made me want to go skiing in Colorado. You settle in getting loads of information about the daily movements of Jack, Perrin, and the Mann family at large. It ambles along to lure you into a false sense of security. Then bam! You hit the 76% mark and suddenly, you’re careening down a rollercoaster you didn’t even know you were on! I literally slapped my forehead at the 78% mark. There is a reveal that is so unexpected, I couldn’t help but gasp.
Even before this shift, the book is addictive. Watching Jack and Perrin both instantly and slowly fall for one another was pure sunshine. The pair quietly opening up to one another and spilling their secrets was so very sweet. Everything after the shift was riveting! Waiting and watching for the pair to reach their HEA was nail-biting. It was simply delightful to see their once in a lifetime love made whole by the end of the novel. Looking forward to Bishop and Quinn’s story in the next installment!
Jack and Perrin both think they don’t know how to do relationships. Their last respective attempts ended badly. The two have instant chemistry, yet skirt around labeling whatever their connection is as more time passes.
“Forever Mann” reminded me of a soap opera! I had no idea that I would come to that realization when I started it. This book has some of the feels of shows like Dallas or Days of Our Lives and I was totally here for it! Aries France sets up Bear Valley so well, it’s like you are there. It totally made me want to go skiing in Colorado. You settle in getting loads of information about the daily movements of Jack, Perrin, and the Mann family at large. It ambles along to lure you into a false sense of security. Then bam! You hit the 76% mark and suddenly, you’re careening down a rollercoaster you didn’t even know you were on! I literally slapped my forehead at the 78% mark. There is a reveal that is so unexpected, I couldn’t help but gasp.
Even before this shift, the book is addictive. Watching Jack and Perrin both instantly and slowly fall for one another was pure sunshine. The pair quietly opening up to one another and spilling their secrets was so very sweet. Everything after the shift was riveting! Waiting and watching for the pair to reach their HEA was nail-biting. It was simply delightful to see their once in a lifetime love made whole by the end of the novel. Looking forward to Bishop and Quinn’s story in the next installment!
May 9, 2021
This book is amazing and I loved it! If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would! The first book I’ve read by Aries was one heck of a story and it certainly won’t be the last. It is also the first book in a new series and I can’t wait to read the rest of them. This is the tale of Jack and Perrin. One is a lawyer and part of the Mann family, who own quite a bit in Bear Valley and the other is a medical professional looking to start anew. They meet when Perrin stumbles into the inn Jack’s family owns during a terrible snow storm. The two are taken with each other immediately and soon the chemistry between the two is off the charts. Both have secrets hiding in their pasts but despite that, the two get closer the more time they spend together. Everything is perfect until Perrin’s past starts to unravel. First, his estranged family show up at a gala they are attending and then it’s a coworker who caused Perrin to spend 5 years out of the country. This coworker will cause Jack and Perrin to be parted for a time that will wear heavily on both men. When all is said and done, Perrin will finally get the peace of mind he needs to move forward with his life and Jack will be there waiting, as he always has been. The two men will take the first steps of their happily ever after journey with Jack’s large family cheering them on.
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
November 29, 2021
I enjoy books that has a strong family base, and the Mann's have that. Perrin has been out of the country for several years, not staying in one place too long. Jack and his brothers basically own Bear Valley and all the brothers are very smart, rather well-established bunch of really good guys. Their Mom's raised very good boys. Both Perrin & Jack are carrying a lot of baggage. I am not going to spoil the story by giving away their secrets so you will have to read it yourself. Needless to say, Jack & Perrin are perfect for each other. They were what the other needed to heal and take the step to make a life without the past hanging over their heads. I hated Perrin's step dad, and was too thrilled with his mother as she didn't make an effort to be a part of his life. I'm not sure about his brother, it seems like he might be okay so maybe we will see him in the future. I loved how Jack's Mom's accepted Perrin and made him feel so welcomed & loved. The biggest issue I had with the story is called Perrin "P". It's too much like "pee" & that drove me nuts & would pull me out of the story.
I received a copy of this book from the Gay Romance Review and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the Gay Romance Review and this is my honest review.
May 13, 2021
Jack is one of the Mann brothers responsible for several businesses in Bear Valley. Perrin has just moved to Bear Valley to work at the hospital. It is at Jack's Inn that the two meet. I liked that while there was instant attraction, they weren't just jumping right into bed. There was some time for Jack and Perrin to get to know each other first. I enjoyed getting to know the characters as Jack and Perrin's relationship develops, first as friends then as true partners.
Jack's backstory provides the chance for Perrin to show his love and support. But it's Perrin's history that provides the main conflict for the last part of the book. I appreciated that their relationship was solid going into this story line since both characters needed to be strong with minimal support. The resolution and after-affects weren't just blown off either, The story line continued enough that the reader was able to see some of the healing process along with their HEA.
It was also great to get to know the other Mann brothers throughout the book. There's just enough information on them to make you interested in reading the next book. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
Jack's backstory provides the chance for Perrin to show his love and support. But it's Perrin's history that provides the main conflict for the last part of the book. I appreciated that their relationship was solid going into this story line since both characters needed to be strong with minimal support. The resolution and after-affects weren't just blown off either, The story line continued enough that the reader was able to see some of the healing process along with their HEA.
It was also great to get to know the other Mann brothers throughout the book. There's just enough information on them to make you interested in reading the next book. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
May 14, 2021
3.3 I can t decide on my feelings ab this book. On the one hand the MC were quite lovely. No miscommunication or forced drama, they met and fell madly in love. On the other had there were a lot of things that annoyed me. The nicknames for one, it s not special when everyone says it. Piper named Perrin, P and from then everyone was a one letter name. Although Jack s family was well developed, especially the brothers there wasn t much interaction between them. His moms barely said 2 words, and the others felt they were there as props, there was no meaningful conversation, maybe one with Baylor. You do feel their love for eachother as a family but it just always felt rushed, like Baylor being concerned than dropping it. P's family was given 1 chapter, why even involve them🤷🏻♀️ I didn t get P s attitude towards his brother, Christopher seem to love and respect him but P was more in love with his boyfriend s family. There were many tid bits that I didn t like but overall I still enjoyed it and I m curious to read Q s story with the FBI agent, maybe it will get better. I also felt this was a bit too long.
July 6, 2022
This is the first story in the Bear Valley series. The front cover was what drew me to reading the story. I am glad I did because I really enjoyed the story. I was glad that the first three books were available so I could read them in sequence. I know it is a cliche when I would mention a series ought to be a part of the gay Hallmarkesque TV Movie series but this one definitely should be up there! The series centers on four brothers.
This particular story focuses on Perrin, one of the two MCs who happened to be an anesthesiologist who took the job at the only hospital in Bear Valley. He certainly had emotional baggage with him. He was somewhere in Europe prior to the start of the story. The other MC was Jack, the Brain behind the Bear Valley Resort along with his 3 other brothers. Jack also had emotional baggage as well. What brought them together was the fact that it was a snowy and late night when Perrin got to the resort and Jack was the one who checked him in. Electricity clicked between them. Throw in an ex-boyfriend and you got an interesting read which involves FBI. Mum’s the word. You got to pick up the book to read to find out what happens!
This particular story focuses on Perrin, one of the two MCs who happened to be an anesthesiologist who took the job at the only hospital in Bear Valley. He certainly had emotional baggage with him. He was somewhere in Europe prior to the start of the story. The other MC was Jack, the Brain behind the Bear Valley Resort along with his 3 other brothers. Jack also had emotional baggage as well. What brought them together was the fact that it was a snowy and late night when Perrin got to the resort and Jack was the one who checked him in. Electricity clicked between them. Throw in an ex-boyfriend and you got an interesting read which involves FBI. Mum’s the word. You got to pick up the book to read to find out what happens!
May 9, 2021
This really is a very stunningly sensual and visual Story. I felt like I was actually visiting Bear Valley myself! The beautiful descriptions of the all the characters both physically and personality wise. Loved all of the different brothers and their close dynamic! I felt like I could actually see all of them, the landscapes and the architecture! Jack is a hard working but kind of closed off on relationships guy, even though he really wants someone to love all for himself and Perrin has been traveling around with work looking to finally sit still in one place. The moment they lay eyes on each other the chemistry is instant!! takes some time but that first kiss is all the feels!! this is a new author for me but I hope this is just the beginning! Love the world building and all of the characters! Perrin and Jack are super steamy together, but there is also some more to their journey before they can maybe build a life together! I received and ARC of this book. I highly recommend to those who enjoy a sweet steamy story with some secrets and events that need to be resolved!!!!
December 21, 2021
Bear Valley is home to the Mann family, a set of brothers who seem to be industrious and are tight knit. They care deeply for one another, but like any siblings can also drive one another crazy. But they also pitch in when needed. It is into that that Perrin walks out of a snowstorm and meets Jack, the Mann who runs the Inn that he has come to stay at. To say that both men took notice of one another would be an understatement. Attraction aside, each man also has his own baggage that needs some unpacking and the author does a good job of helping us to understand what each has gone to to get to the point where we meet them. And when drama finds them and they have to work through a thorny situation - no spoilers - the author does a good job of engaging us in the mystery and its resolution. The most important thing, ultimately, is that Jack and Perrin make it to their HEA and we get a glimpse of the next brother who will find his forever man.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
May 7, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Forever Mann is the start of a new series following the adopted Mann brothers of Bear Valley and in this first installment, Jack takes center stage, though the entire family is introduced.
Jack and Perrin are a well suited pair, each fully developed enough to feel complete and independent of one another. They definitely enjoy a period of insta-lust, but this progresses to a believable relationship and they are well balanced. Jack’s family is a bit overwhelming, but they never stole the show and I appreciated the grounding effect they had on Jack and on those they considered friends. The character development is really the highlight of the book and I enjoyed watched the evolution of Jack and Perrin into a loving couple.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Forever Mann is the start of a new series following the adopted Mann brothers of Bear Valley and in this first installment, Jack takes center stage, though the entire family is introduced.
Jack and Perrin are a well suited pair, each fully developed enough to feel complete and independent of one another. They definitely enjoy a period of insta-lust, but this progresses to a believable relationship and they are well balanced. Jack’s family is a bit overwhelming, but they never stole the show and I appreciated the grounding effect they had on Jack and on those they considered friends. The character development is really the highlight of the book and I enjoyed watched the evolution of Jack and Perrin into a loving couple.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
May 8, 2021
I wanted to like this more than I did. Unfortunately, there was simply far too much going on within the story that I often felt lost. The two main characters, Jack and Perrin, end up meeting and falling for each other. I would argue that it was more insta lust that grew into love pretty quickly. I loved dynamic of the brothers and their respective personalities, but there were a lot of revelations that affected the pacing of the main plot for me. I struggled to process revelation because the drama within the story started to build up and it all unraveled in a chaotic way. I didn’t buy into the main drama surrounding Perrin and how it involved law enforcement because I simply could not process everything with how the story was set up.
I really wanted to like this more, but I was thrown off from the story, and I never got my footing back.
*ARC received through Gay Romance Reviews, and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
I really wanted to like this more, but I was thrown off from the story, and I never got my footing back.
*ARC received through Gay Romance Reviews, and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
May 9, 2021
Wow, this was unexpectedly good.
When I started the book, I thought 'another love/lust at first sight but this is so much more.
Yes it's starts out as that but that is only the beginning ....
I loved the relationship development, the family and how Jack and Perrin started to trust each other.
The developments in last quarter came out of nowhere, but this development was so well done and had me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down.
This starts out as a simple love story but is a complex about two men, who fit together and overcome their pasts.
I absolutely loved it
My only complaint is that at the beginning the writing wavers a bit between using past and present tense which felt off to me ... but that was taken care of by the end of the first quarter, so it didn't really minder my enjoyment of reading this book.
I loved this book, absolutely loved it and can't wait for the next one!
When I started the book, I thought 'another love/lust at first sight but this is so much more.
Yes it's starts out as that but that is only the beginning ....
I loved the relationship development, the family and how Jack and Perrin started to trust each other.
The developments in last quarter came out of nowhere, but this development was so well done and had me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down.
This starts out as a simple love story but is a complex about two men, who fit together and overcome their pasts.
I absolutely loved it
My only complaint is that at the beginning the writing wavers a bit between using past and present tense which felt off to me ... but that was taken care of by the end of the first quarter, so it didn't really minder my enjoyment of reading this book.
I loved this book, absolutely loved it and can't wait for the next one!
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