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Red's Tavern #4
The Single Dad
As a newly single dad, I had hard rules. And a sensitive, smoking hot military vet is breaking every last one….
I’ve always had everything figured out. Dream job? Check. Three beautiful kids? Check. Married my high school sweetheart? Check.
…Until my marriage fell apart. Now I only see my kids for half of each week, and for the other half I’m left alone in my big, empty house, figuring things out all over again in my thirties. My rules were simple: no hookups for two months, no dating for a year, and nobody meets my kids.
I blew right through that first rule with Luke.
He’s got deep eyes, beautiful tattoos, and a big, wounded military vet’s heart. At night I’m also chatting online with a guy that feels kind of like home, but is totally off limits. I find myself wishing… hoping?… that he might even be Luke.
Before long Luke is flexing his handyman skills, helping me fix up my house and transform my life into something that feels like home again, too.
We have baggage the size of mountains, and pasts that haunt us.
But we both know that nothing is serious… so what’s the harm?
I’ve always had everything figured out. Dream job? Check. Three beautiful kids? Check. Married my high school sweetheart? Check.
…Until my marriage fell apart. Now I only see my kids for half of each week, and for the other half I’m left alone in my big, empty house, figuring things out all over again in my thirties. My rules were simple: no hookups for two months, no dating for a year, and nobody meets my kids.
I blew right through that first rule with Luke.
He’s got deep eyes, beautiful tattoos, and a big, wounded military vet’s heart. At night I’m also chatting online with a guy that feels kind of like home, but is totally off limits. I find myself wishing… hoping?… that he might even be Luke.
Before long Luke is flexing his handyman skills, helping me fix up my house and transform my life into something that feels like home again, too.
We have baggage the size of mountains, and pasts that haunt us.
But we both know that nothing is serious… so what’s the harm?
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2021
215 people are currently reading
240 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
June 20, 2021
2.5 stars
I’m starting to sound like a broken record but this is another book left over from a couple weeks ago when I thought that these types of low angst books still worked for me. They still don’t work for me, sadly.
My biggest issue with these books is that I just wish something would happen, sometimes, these people have an even more boring life than I do and my life is pretty damn boring.
Brief summary
Cam is 36 and him and his wife just divorced. Cam is at a bar, doing crosswords puzzles and Luke goes to help him with his puzzles. Cam is interested in Luke but he has rules in which he can’t date someone so close after his divorce so they become friends instead, before falling in love.
I would like to start by saying that this was a really sweet book and would be perfect for anyone who want a sweet low angst story. And I did like Cam and Luke together, they werea good match for each other.
First, I can’t explained how relieved I was that Cam is bisexual. He was married to a woman for a very long time and I’m so glad the book didn’t go in the gay man who married a woman when he knew he was gay direction.
Second, I really enjoyed how Luke challenged Cam and how he got him to do things outside if his confort zone.
Third, these guys had been talking for about 5 minutes and they were already sharing things with the other they never shared with any one. Can we slow it down a little please.
Fourth, the way Luke’s trauma was handled was really strange to me. Luke was in the marines, he kept saying how he had night terrors, couldn’t sleep, was half scared to death, all because of his time in the marines. And Cam kept telling Luke how Luke isn’t afraid of anything. And I get that it’s a nice sentiment but I felt like it was undermining Luke’s trauma. It was like Cam didn’t ever take Luke’s trauma seriously. I didn’t like how Luke had trauma and all but the book trying to build this picture of Luke has a guy who never struggles and all, it felt like the book was making his trauma seem way less important than it is. Also, there was never a mention of him seeing a therapist, which I thought was really strange, he really would have benefited from one.
Fifth, Cam did everything to keep Luke a secret and I didn’t understand why. Like he didn’t even want to be seen with Luke in the middle of a bar. Did I miss a memo? Are adults not allowed to hang out with friends anymore?
Sixth, I did like how the divorce was shown and how they Cam and his ex wife stayed friendly for the kids and how they didn’t blame the other for everything. While I liked how the divorce was portrayed between Cam and his ex-wife, I didn’t appreciate how it was handled when it came to the kids. This is a personal thing but I’m not sure I appreciated that Cam’s kid seemed perfectly fine with him dating someone new right after his divorce. It seemes so easy. They never had a freak out moment or anything. My parents are divorced (and I was about the same age as the kids in this book when they divorced) so I know this subject matter and let me tell you happiness is not what I would have felt, at all. This book didn’t show any of the bad affects of the divorce on the kid and it really wasn’t realistic. It really annoys me how most books like these show divorce through rose coloured glasses. Kids who’s parents are going through a divorce are going to be very affected by it and chances are, they won’t be happy, at all, about possible new partners, at first. And they are going to feel like one of their parents is abandoning them. This book just showed the kids as super supportive and like the divorce didn’t bother them and none of that is realistic.
This was really sweet and i’m sure I would have enjoyed it more if I was in the mood for these kind of low angst stories.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I’m starting to sound like a broken record but this is another book left over from a couple weeks ago when I thought that these types of low angst books still worked for me. They still don’t work for me, sadly.
My biggest issue with these books is that I just wish something would happen, sometimes, these people have an even more boring life than I do and my life is pretty damn boring.
Brief summary
Cam is 36 and him and his wife just divorced. Cam is at a bar, doing crosswords puzzles and Luke goes to help him with his puzzles. Cam is interested in Luke but he has rules in which he can’t date someone so close after his divorce so they become friends instead, before falling in love.
I would like to start by saying that this was a really sweet book and would be perfect for anyone who want a sweet low angst story. And I did like Cam and Luke together, they werea good match for each other.
First, I can’t explained how relieved I was that Cam is bisexual. He was married to a woman for a very long time and I’m so glad the book didn’t go in the gay man who married a woman when he knew he was gay direction.
Second, I really enjoyed how Luke challenged Cam and how he got him to do things outside if his confort zone.
Third, these guys had been talking for about 5 minutes and they were already sharing things with the other they never shared with any one. Can we slow it down a little please.
Fourth, the way Luke’s trauma was handled was really strange to me. Luke was in the marines, he kept saying how he had night terrors, couldn’t sleep, was half scared to death, all because of his time in the marines. And Cam kept telling Luke how Luke isn’t afraid of anything. And I get that it’s a nice sentiment but I felt like it was undermining Luke’s trauma. It was like Cam didn’t ever take Luke’s trauma seriously. I didn’t like how Luke had trauma and all but the book trying to build this picture of Luke has a guy who never struggles and all, it felt like the book was making his trauma seem way less important than it is. Also, there was never a mention of him seeing a therapist, which I thought was really strange, he really would have benefited from one.
Fifth, Cam did everything to keep Luke a secret and I didn’t understand why. Like he didn’t even want to be seen with Luke in the middle of a bar. Did I miss a memo? Are adults not allowed to hang out with friends anymore?
Sixth, I did like how the divorce was shown and how they Cam and his ex wife stayed friendly for the kids and how they didn’t blame the other for everything. While I liked how the divorce was portrayed between Cam and his ex-wife, I didn’t appreciate how it was handled when it came to the kids. This is a personal thing but I’m not sure I appreciated that Cam’s kid seemed perfectly fine with him dating someone new right after his divorce. It seemes so easy. They never had a freak out moment or anything. My parents are divorced (and I was about the same age as the kids in this book when they divorced) so I know this subject matter and let me tell you happiness is not what I would have felt, at all. This book didn’t show any of the bad affects of the divorce on the kid and it really wasn’t realistic. It really annoys me how most books like these show divorce through rose coloured glasses. Kids who’s parents are going through a divorce are going to be very affected by it and chances are, they won’t be happy, at all, about possible new partners, at first. And they are going to feel like one of their parents is abandoning them. This book just showed the kids as super supportive and like the divorce didn’t bother them and none of that is realistic.
This was really sweet and i’m sure I would have enjoyed it more if I was in the mood for these kind of low angst stories.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
October 25, 2021
[3.7] ummm can i have a Luke of my own please?? what a thoughtful, understanding, and handy guy, i loved the heck out of him!! 😍💖💖
despite featuring characters with plenty of their own baggage (recent divorce, ptsd, loss, etc.), this story was surprisingly low-angst and simple, working well as a casual read in between the darker books i’ve been reading.
those who’ve been with me for a while know that i eat up books where the mcs exchange messages with each other (even better when they have no idea who’s on the other side of the screen), so i do wish the messaging aspect had been expanded upon more. once the situation went from The Unintentional Catfish (both clueless they’re messaging each other on an app) to The One-Sided Intentional Catfish (Luke realizing he’s chatting with Cam but keeping quiet about it) in like two interactions, the messages were left by the wayside (apart from maybe a sentence mention here and there) until getting picked up again toward the end. adding in a few of those nightly chats would’ve helped establish credibility for the supposed meaningful connection with Phlox that Cam kept claiming he felt but we rarely got to see on-page.
regardless, the slow relationship development was rather sweet so i’ll try my best to overlook it 😆
despite featuring characters with plenty of their own baggage (recent divorce, ptsd, loss, etc.), this story was surprisingly low-angst and simple, working well as a casual read in between the darker books i’ve been reading.
those who’ve been with me for a while know that i eat up books where the mcs exchange messages with each other (even better when they have no idea who’s on the other side of the screen), so i do wish the messaging aspect had been expanded upon more. once the situation went from The Unintentional Catfish (both clueless they’re messaging each other on an app) to The One-Sided Intentional Catfish (Luke realizing he’s chatting with Cam but keeping quiet about it) in like two interactions, the messages were left by the wayside (apart from maybe a sentence mention here and there) until getting picked up again toward the end. adding in a few of those nightly chats would’ve helped establish credibility for the supposed meaningful connection with Phlox that Cam kept claiming he felt but we rarely got to see on-page.
regardless, the slow relationship development was rather sweet so i’ll try my best to overlook it 😆
June 8, 2021
This was enjoyable and the characters were very likeable. Cam and Luke are both not looking for love. Cam is still picking up the pieces of his divorce and Luke feels like he can only handle hookups, plus he has some issues lingering from his past. And Cam is cute, like he will say no to something because he's afraid, then a second later say screw it and just jump in with both feet. I love how Luke is so willing to step in and help with projects and stuff, and how much he loves landscaping. I liked these two together, how even when they tried to keep it casual they didn't try super hard. Also, I love Cams kids, and that he didn't have to tear down his ex to move on. That was refreshing.
September 28, 2021
This book is incredibly low-angst and that bothers me.
Don't get me wrong, there is a time and a place for low-angst books. In fact, I am often put off by books that people describe as "full of angst." The problem with this book is that it should be brimming with angst: Cam just broke up with his wife of over a decade and is a general anxious mess; Luke is a former soldier who has trauma connected to his time in Afghanistan. Cam struggles to allow himself to do basic tasks; Luke has trouble being indoors. And so on.
But like... nothing really came of all of this. It's mentioned, they pat each other on the back sympathetically, and the book moves on. Even the climax is a giant let down. Cam and Luke just sort of... get over their issues and everything is hunky dory. They live happily ever after, in boring angst-free circumstances. Yawn.
If you're looking for a very simple, low-angst book, I recommend it. Personally, I didn't particularly enjoy it.
Don't get me wrong, there is a time and a place for low-angst books. In fact, I am often put off by books that people describe as "full of angst." The problem with this book is that it should be brimming with angst: Cam just broke up with his wife of over a decade and is a general anxious mess; Luke is a former soldier who has trauma connected to his time in Afghanistan. Cam struggles to allow himself to do basic tasks; Luke has trouble being indoors. And so on.
But like... nothing really came of all of this. It's mentioned, they pat each other on the back sympathetically, and the book moves on. Even the climax is a giant let down. Cam and Luke just sort of... get over their issues and everything is hunky dory. They live happily ever after, in boring angst-free circumstances. Yawn.
If you're looking for a very simple, low-angst book, I recommend it. Personally, I didn't particularly enjoy it.
February 21, 2022
A sad and healing war veteran meets a newly divorced dad of three.
This book was better than the blurb made it out to be and way less about rules and being a single dad than I thought. It still had all of those elements, but they weren’t the focus. Still the same formula as the others. It’s sweet, low/no angst, and decently spicy. It may be my least favorite of the series, but that might be due more to how quickly Cam moved on after his divorce and how slow some of the pacing felt. This one is probably more of a 2.5 than 3 stars.
TW: divorce, death of a partner (not on page)
This book was better than the blurb made it out to be and way less about rules and being a single dad than I thought. It still had all of those elements, but they weren’t the focus. Still the same formula as the others. It’s sweet, low/no angst, and decently spicy. It may be my least favorite of the series, but that might be due more to how quickly Cam moved on after his divorce and how slow some of the pacing felt. This one is probably more of a 2.5 than 3 stars.
TW: divorce, death of a partner (not on page)
December 21, 2022
Nice enough but a bit dull? Could’ve done with being a novella
June 10, 2021
Sweet low angst romance with likable MCs.
Luke won me over from the very beginning, he is comfortable with who he is and lives one day at a time. Despite his painful past he can't help but open up to Cam and fall for him. Cam is used to live by the rules and plan everything, he is newly divorced and I could relate to his struggles. But when he meets Luke he can't help but break his rules for him. Cam has always known and acknowledged his bisexuality but due to early marriage had no chance to explore it. So we get all his firsts with Luke and no drama.
I liked that though kids were present in Cam's life, they didn't take over the book and that the ex-wife was just an ex and not an enemy. The story was focused on Cam and Luke and their developing friendship and romance.
Luke was there for Cam from the start while it took time for Cam to acknowledge the depth of his feelings and Luke's role in his life. It felt a bit unbalanced at times. But at the end Cam gave Luke love and family and I couldn't be more happy.
Luke won me over from the very beginning, he is comfortable with who he is and lives one day at a time. Despite his painful past he can't help but open up to Cam and fall for him. Cam is used to live by the rules and plan everything, he is newly divorced and I could relate to his struggles. But when he meets Luke he can't help but break his rules for him. Cam has always known and acknowledged his bisexuality but due to early marriage had no chance to explore it. So we get all his firsts with Luke and no drama.
I liked that though kids were present in Cam's life, they didn't take over the book and that the ex-wife was just an ex and not an enemy. The story was focused on Cam and Luke and their developing friendship and romance.
Luke was there for Cam from the start while it took time for Cam to acknowledge the depth of his feelings and Luke's role in his life. It felt a bit unbalanced at times. But at the end Cam gave Luke love and family and I couldn't be more happy.
August 12, 2022
Rep: bi mc, gay mc
July 14, 2021
Tried a new to me author, but... The story and characters just weren't that compelling. Oh, well. You win some, you lose some.
June 8, 2021
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The Single Dad is the 4th stand alone in the Red's Tavern series by Raleigh Ruebins. This follows recently divorced single dad Cameron and veteran groundskeeper Luke. One man who plans his life down to the minute while the other lives every day like it could be his last.
"Do people really see me as tough?"
He nodded. "Yeah, most likely."
"I'm just a weirdo who's afraid of indoors and obsessed with plants."
I absolutely loved our main characters who meet for the first time at Red's Tavern while Cameron's working on a cross word puzzle. The have the whole opposites attract situation in spades and I love how Luke would innocently tease him over it. Cameron's life is complicated with an ex-wife and three kids while Luke's is much more simple. Cameron doesn't know how to do hook-ups while that all Luke will ever do, so he doesn't risk losing another person he loves. Cam's innocence with exploring the other side of his bisexuality and adjusting to his new life was endearing and Luke's comfort and peace in the outdoors and nature warms your heart. They just had so many great moments getting to know one another.
"He looked even better here in my backyard, surrounded by little glowing light and all my favorite plants in the world."
In the physical department of their relationship they take it slow which is what is best for newly divorced Cam, but they can't help but feel the constant attraction and I looked forward to their "slip ups" . I just really enjoyed that they created a strong friendship with each other outside of their initial attractions and they both had to work through their fears to be ready to be all in. But that doesn't mean they did get physically intimate it was hot as hell, because it was!
"Because now that I know what life is like with you, what if I can't picture it without you."
The Single Dad is a low drama, medium steam contemporary romance. I look forward to every new release in the Red's Tavern series and this one fits right at home with the others.
The Single Dad is the 4th stand alone in the Red's Tavern series by Raleigh Ruebins. This follows recently divorced single dad Cameron and veteran groundskeeper Luke. One man who plans his life down to the minute while the other lives every day like it could be his last.
"Do people really see me as tough?"
He nodded. "Yeah, most likely."
"I'm just a weirdo who's afraid of indoors and obsessed with plants."
I absolutely loved our main characters who meet for the first time at Red's Tavern while Cameron's working on a cross word puzzle. The have the whole opposites attract situation in spades and I love how Luke would innocently tease him over it. Cameron's life is complicated with an ex-wife and three kids while Luke's is much more simple. Cameron doesn't know how to do hook-ups while that all Luke will ever do, so he doesn't risk losing another person he loves. Cam's innocence with exploring the other side of his bisexuality and adjusting to his new life was endearing and Luke's comfort and peace in the outdoors and nature warms your heart. They just had so many great moments getting to know one another.
"He looked even better here in my backyard, surrounded by little glowing light and all my favorite plants in the world."
In the physical department of their relationship they take it slow which is what is best for newly divorced Cam, but they can't help but feel the constant attraction and I looked forward to their "slip ups" . I just really enjoyed that they created a strong friendship with each other outside of their initial attractions and they both had to work through their fears to be ready to be all in. But that doesn't mean they did get physically intimate it was hot as hell, because it was!
"Because now that I know what life is like with you, what if I can't picture it without you."
The Single Dad is a low drama, medium steam contemporary romance. I look forward to every new release in the Red's Tavern series and this one fits right at home with the others.
June 9, 2021
I enjoyed this book so much. Cam and Luke make a really cute couple. I loved Luke and his green thumb. His backyard sounds like a literal fairytale and I would love to see the inspiration for it.
It was hard not to feel empathy for Cam. I can't imagine divorcing after such a long marriage...especially when kids are involved. Luke helping him prepare for the birthday party was just so sweet and I found myself wanting to hit Cam upside the head when he would inadvertently hurt Luke.
All in all, I would consider this a low angst, sweet read. I definitely want to check out the author's other books.
*I received an Arc, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
It was hard not to feel empathy for Cam. I can't imagine divorcing after such a long marriage...especially when kids are involved. Luke helping him prepare for the birthday party was just so sweet and I found myself wanting to hit Cam upside the head when he would inadvertently hurt Luke.
All in all, I would consider this a low angst, sweet read. I definitely want to check out the author's other books.
*I received an Arc, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
June 9, 2021
This was just such sweet, adorable, fluff. We met Cam in the previous book, and knew he was going through a divorce, so I was curious about how he was going to make a quick turn around to being in a relationship with a man. But while it was quick, it was also really natural and lovely. Also, just for an FYI, this is not a bi-awakening novel, Cam is secure in the fact that he has always liked both men and women and this is not that type of discovery story. However, it is a discovery of both men learning how to love again after two very different types of love. Wonderful characters finding love and being all sweet is my favorite, so this was definitely a win in my book.
February 16, 2024
Sharing the love and family makes it better.
The Tavern takes a back seat to the back yards as Luke is drawn into the family of Cam as his kids feel the love and share the gardens and friendships that radiate from Red's Tavern. The care and concern the kids project male it much easier for Cam and Luke to provide the family support needed while creating opportunities for all to share the wonder. Nothing else compares or provides the satisfaction of togetherness. Love is ....perfect.
The Tavern takes a back seat to the back yards as Luke is drawn into the family of Cam as his kids feel the love and share the gardens and friendships that radiate from Red's Tavern. The care and concern the kids project male it much easier for Cam and Luke to provide the family support needed while creating opportunities for all to share the wonder. Nothing else compares or provides the satisfaction of togetherness. Love is ....perfect.
June 8, 2021
Another great book to the series! The author brings a cast of strong characters centering on Cameron and Luke. They have a sweet romance but not without some issues. The chemistry is strong and the love grows. It's well written ,moves fluidly with detailed and descriptive scenes and is a cute read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
June 10, 2021
4.5
It isn't the steamiest Red's Tavern book but it focuses much more on the feelings side of Luke and Cam's relationship. I thought it was really lovely how things developed slowly. Both have a lot of baggage but they communicate the whole time. Very low angst.
It isn't the steamiest Red's Tavern book but it focuses much more on the feelings side of Luke and Cam's relationship. I thought it was really lovely how things developed slowly. Both have a lot of baggage but they communicate the whole time. Very low angst.
October 6, 2021
2.5 stars. The characters were inconsistent and the problems they had were glossed over rather than solved. Had potential but not well executed.
February 21, 2024
Divorced father fining love again isn't my favorite premise, but this one was more enjoyable than most. I still feel like something hinky was going on with Rachel from this and the previous book, but whatever. Anyway, Luke was amazing and I'm here for the plant-geeking.
June 8, 2021
This is a great story that drew me in and kept me turning the pages. Cam and Luke ate two complex characters that I enjoyed getting to know. This was a quick, low-angst story well worth reading.
June 13, 2021
slow sweet burn.. good characters.. fun story.. and made me smile. the emotions were real and kept me guessing on what was next. i liked it a lot
January 24, 2022
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I enjoyed this book. Cam who recently divorced his high school sweetheart Rachel has to come to terms being a divorced single father of three. He’s thinking about starting to date again but has rules in place since he loves rules there’s to be no hookups for two months, no dating for a year, and nobody meets my kids but Luke has him changing all his rules. Luke is a veteran, covered in beautiful tattoos and his garden and greenhouse is his happy place. He obviously suffers from minor PTSD episodes like not being able to spend much time in his house and waking up every now and then thinking that danger is heading his way. He also lost a guy he was seeing Jason while he was in a Marines. They never got a chance to see if they’d make things work when they both got out since Jason died. Both Cam and Luke have their own baggage.
I loved the friendship they formed that eventually turned into more. I felt sorry for Luke or more than one occasion when Cam made him leave because his kids came home and then they left Red’s when his ex Rachel showed up. It’s understandable that Cam was worried but he was also trying to protect himself and his kid as as he was worried that if he allowed someone too close and then they’d leave, he eventually introduces Luke to his kids. I loved how much Cam’s kids liked Luke, especially his garden and greenhouse. I thought Cam and Luke were great together and loved the addition of their chatting through the app as they felt safer taking online pretending to be random people which helped them to be honest about their feelings. I still thought the chemistry between Cam and Luke was off the charts. This book had much more emotion than book had much more emotion than the previous book and seemed more real. I’m looking forward to reading Sam’s story next. I’d definitely recommend this book series and author to everyone.
I enjoyed this book. Cam who recently divorced his high school sweetheart Rachel has to come to terms being a divorced single father of three. He’s thinking about starting to date again but has rules in place since he loves rules there’s to be no hookups for two months, no dating for a year, and nobody meets my kids but Luke has him changing all his rules. Luke is a veteran, covered in beautiful tattoos and his garden and greenhouse is his happy place. He obviously suffers from minor PTSD episodes like not being able to spend much time in his house and waking up every now and then thinking that danger is heading his way. He also lost a guy he was seeing Jason while he was in a Marines. They never got a chance to see if they’d make things work when they both got out since Jason died. Both Cam and Luke have their own baggage.
I loved the friendship they formed that eventually turned into more. I felt sorry for Luke or more than one occasion when Cam made him leave because his kids came home and then they left Red’s when his ex Rachel showed up. It’s understandable that Cam was worried but he was also trying to protect himself and his kid as as he was worried that if he allowed someone too close and then they’d leave, he eventually introduces Luke to his kids. I loved how much Cam’s kids liked Luke, especially his garden and greenhouse. I thought Cam and Luke were great together and loved the addition of their chatting through the app as they felt safer taking online pretending to be random people which helped them to be honest about their feelings. I still thought the chemistry between Cam and Luke was off the charts. This book had much more emotion than book had much more emotion than the previous book and seemed more real. I’m looking forward to reading Sam’s story next. I’d definitely recommend this book series and author to everyone.
June 9, 2021
*4.5*
The Single Dad sees two of my favourite tropes come together - single dad and ex-military. Cam is newly divorced and now shares custody of his three children. Luke is ex-military with PTSD and has built himself a lovely life as the gardener at a local B&B.
When they meet at Red's Tavern, Cam is actually doing a crossword puzzle, endearing him to Luke and what the end of the night plays out very differently to how both men thought. Cam is still dealing with the new life he finds himself in and isn't comfortable having an open relationship with another man whilst still trying to figure out his new normal and focus on his children. Luke is still dealing with the after affects of serving his country; physically, mentally and having lost someone close to him. However, he's found his little place to call home where he's at his happiest caring for his plants.
The two work to build a friendship that they are both in need of whilst also at first putting off the attraction that they share. Of course, it can only build so much until it implodes and in one of the best ways. I really enjoyed the connection that they share. Luke is just the sweetest guy, giving Cam the space and time that he needs to work through things though often to his own detriment, putting his own needs and feelings last. Occasionally, you want to shout at Cam to pay attention but he definitely comes through in the end. There are some great secondary characters involved, including Cam's children and Luke's best friend. All supportive and endearing in their own ways.
I like how the story played out and enjoyed the romance overall. There is heat and sweetness in equal measure as the two work on a relationship that is good for both of them.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
The Single Dad sees two of my favourite tropes come together - single dad and ex-military. Cam is newly divorced and now shares custody of his three children. Luke is ex-military with PTSD and has built himself a lovely life as the gardener at a local B&B.
When they meet at Red's Tavern, Cam is actually doing a crossword puzzle, endearing him to Luke and what the end of the night plays out very differently to how both men thought. Cam is still dealing with the new life he finds himself in and isn't comfortable having an open relationship with another man whilst still trying to figure out his new normal and focus on his children. Luke is still dealing with the after affects of serving his country; physically, mentally and having lost someone close to him. However, he's found his little place to call home where he's at his happiest caring for his plants.
The two work to build a friendship that they are both in need of whilst also at first putting off the attraction that they share. Of course, it can only build so much until it implodes and in one of the best ways. I really enjoyed the connection that they share. Luke is just the sweetest guy, giving Cam the space and time that he needs to work through things though often to his own detriment, putting his own needs and feelings last. Occasionally, you want to shout at Cam to pay attention but he definitely comes through in the end. There are some great secondary characters involved, including Cam's children and Luke's best friend. All supportive and endearing in their own ways.
I like how the story played out and enjoyed the romance overall. There is heat and sweetness in equal measure as the two work on a relationship that is good for both of them.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 8, 2021
Luke is a great character-- he’s a bit battered by his life experiences but honest with himself and others about who he is and how he feels. He creates beautiful spaces in the world of his garden, and he’s a good friend to everyone in his life. He’s impossible not to like. Cam is interesting as well: he’s clearly struggling with his divorce, his conception of himself, and how to do the right thing for himself and his family. It’s relatable, but it does occasionally make him treat Luke badly, and I didn’t love that. In addition, the narrative sometimes felt a bit unbalanced to me, in that Cam’s needs, reservations, changes-of-heart, and epiphanies are always the central concern, while Luke’s take place in much more rushed, off-side fashion. Does Cam have a lot to deal with? Yes, he absolutely does, and he is the title character, so it makes sense he’s the main focus, but it still felt to me a lot of the time that while Luke is an integral part of helping Cam, being there for Cam, and propping him up with everything from emotional advice to free yard and garden labor, Cam does nothing reciprocal for Luke, who instead weathers his own traumas and fears alone or with the help of his admittedly awesome best friend. That’s not to say that Cam isn’t worth Luke’s interest or effort, just that I wish we’d been able to see a version of Cam who was there for Luke too. Overall, the narrative flows well, the supporting characters are interesting, and as many doubts as I had about Cam, it was definitely worth it to see Luke get his HEA.
*I received an ARC of this story and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this story and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2021
When this book came out for review I jumped on the chance. The second I see single dad I want to devour it. Not only did I get pulled into this book, I speed read through the first 3 books and I AM INVESTED!
This book was a perfect addition to the series. Throughout the whole book it seems that Cam is the one who is scared and holding himself back from Luke with his rules. He is recently divorced and not even thinking about hooking up let alone a relationship. This is until he meets Luke one night at Red's Tavern.
Luke is afraid to let anyone close anymore so he only sticks to hook ups and one night stands. He spends his days and nights outside surrounded by his luxurious garden and suffocating while inside. Meeting Cam was unexpected and even though he knows breaking the rules with him can only lead to bad things, he can't seem to stop himself.
Both men struggle with their separate issues, but know their feelings are a part of something bigger and they don't want to let it go. Their communication was pretty good once they started talking; however, in the beginning both men were in their own heads and not communicating very well. It was nice to watch Luke and Cam work through their struggles of their past and find each other and their true feelings through the process.
This story is a slow burn. The sexual tension can be cut with a knife and their steamy moments happen sooner, but the true relationship and feelings growth takes time. I wouldn't expect any less from the professional gardener that Luke is. Growing his relationship from a seed with delicate care, watering and constant sunshine.
This book was a perfect addition to the series. Throughout the whole book it seems that Cam is the one who is scared and holding himself back from Luke with his rules. He is recently divorced and not even thinking about hooking up let alone a relationship. This is until he meets Luke one night at Red's Tavern.
Luke is afraid to let anyone close anymore so he only sticks to hook ups and one night stands. He spends his days and nights outside surrounded by his luxurious garden and suffocating while inside. Meeting Cam was unexpected and even though he knows breaking the rules with him can only lead to bad things, he can't seem to stop himself.
Both men struggle with their separate issues, but know their feelings are a part of something bigger and they don't want to let it go. Their communication was pretty good once they started talking; however, in the beginning both men were in their own heads and not communicating very well. It was nice to watch Luke and Cam work through their struggles of their past and find each other and their true feelings through the process.
This story is a slow burn. The sexual tension can be cut with a knife and their steamy moments happen sooner, but the true relationship and feelings growth takes time. I wouldn't expect any less from the professional gardener that Luke is. Growing his relationship from a seed with delicate care, watering and constant sunshine.
January 8, 2025
We met Cam, Perry's brother, in the last story. Cam and his wife of 15 years, Rachel, have just finalized their divorce after three kids. Since they've been together since high school, Cam has never dated anyone else, but he knows that he's always been bisexual.
Enter Luke. Luke comes into Red's Tavern when Cam is just hanging out, doing a crossword puzzle, and immediately tries to pick him up. Luke is hot as hell, and Cam has seen him before, as Luke is the groundskeeper at the Inn where Cam and Perry's family had their reunion. Cam, although wildly attracted to Luke, tells him that he made a rule that he's not going to hook up or date so soon after his divorce. Luke tells him it's okay and goes to leave, but Cam ends up going home with him anyway. Not to hook up, just to chill.
The two men have an instant connection. They want each other so badly, but Cam has his rules, and Luke only does hookups. We find out that he lost his partner five years ago, and since then, he's afraid to trust.
But as Cam and Luke spend time together, and even after Luke meets Cam's three kids, it's hard for both men to stick to their guns. Things just feel so tight and natural, and the attraction is absolutely insane. Will they be able to keep their hands off of each other long enough to actually be friends?
This one just seemed so much messier than the others. So much back and forth, so many mind games it seemed...I liked the characters but it wasn't my favorite.
Rating 🔥🔥🔥 1/2
Enter Luke. Luke comes into Red's Tavern when Cam is just hanging out, doing a crossword puzzle, and immediately tries to pick him up. Luke is hot as hell, and Cam has seen him before, as Luke is the groundskeeper at the Inn where Cam and Perry's family had their reunion. Cam, although wildly attracted to Luke, tells him that he made a rule that he's not going to hook up or date so soon after his divorce. Luke tells him it's okay and goes to leave, but Cam ends up going home with him anyway. Not to hook up, just to chill.
The two men have an instant connection. They want each other so badly, but Cam has his rules, and Luke only does hookups. We find out that he lost his partner five years ago, and since then, he's afraid to trust.
But as Cam and Luke spend time together, and even after Luke meets Cam's three kids, it's hard for both men to stick to their guns. Things just feel so tight and natural, and the attraction is absolutely insane. Will they be able to keep their hands off of each other long enough to actually be friends?
This one just seemed so much messier than the others. So much back and forth, so many mind games it seemed...I liked the characters but it wasn't my favorite.
Rating 🔥🔥🔥 1/2
June 11, 2021
The Single Dad is the first of this series that I have read and I will probably pick up some of the others. The author does a nice job of balancing the opposites-attract trope. Both MCs are damaged and find in the other the ability to heal—Cam from a divorce and Luke from the death of his first lover while he was fighting in Afghanistan. Cam is an uptight computer nerd and Luke is a hunky former marine turned professional gardener—and there is a hot scene in the greenhouse!
The book is sweet, sweet, sweet. The three (!) kids are cute though a little too easily integrated into the MCs’ relationship. The pace is a bit slow and the content is mostly the MCs processing their thoughts and feelings. There is not alot of plot—though I loved the BackOutThere app angle. Definitely a low-angst read. I am always on the alert for an MM relationship described in MF terms and the author does fall into that trap from time to time—Cam “flits” into the house at one point; at another, Luke picks Cam up, throws him over his shoulder and takes him into the house. Cam is the pretty one; Luke is the hot one. Cam is only passive and Luke is only active. Even with these quibbles, the feels are there and Cam and Luke make a believable couple who have earned the happiness that they achieve. I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews.
The book is sweet, sweet, sweet. The three (!) kids are cute though a little too easily integrated into the MCs’ relationship. The pace is a bit slow and the content is mostly the MCs processing their thoughts and feelings. There is not alot of plot—though I loved the BackOutThere app angle. Definitely a low-angst read. I am always on the alert for an MM relationship described in MF terms and the author does fall into that trap from time to time—Cam “flits” into the house at one point; at another, Luke picks Cam up, throws him over his shoulder and takes him into the house. Cam is the pretty one; Luke is the hot one. Cam is only passive and Luke is only active. Even with these quibbles, the feels are there and Cam and Luke make a believable couple who have earned the happiness that they achieve. I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews.
June 8, 2021
🌱More fun in the great out of doors than just gardening😉
4.5🌟 stars
I love the characterizations of Afghanistan vet Luke and single dad Cam in this story. Two guys not ready for the bolt from above that hits when they meet at Red's Tavern over a crossword puzzle(?!). Cam is a pre-planner to the nth and Luke has seen his hopes and plans blown away so he's living in the moment, gardening and DIYing up a storm.
The story remained engaging beginning to end, what with some anonymous sharing of souls through texting, Cam's efforts to protect his three kids and a slow build of joint activities as friends, but I also loved the outdoor heat in this one!
The secondary characters add some humor and moral support, but this MM romance remains firmly fixed on the leads which is the way I prefer. Their backstories are explained to provide context for their present hang-ups, but the story, told by alternating perspective between Luke and Cam, remains firmly in the here and now. This can absolutely be read as a standalone.
I read the other three books in the series as they came out, so it's been awhile for some, but I believe this is my favorite of the four.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
4.5🌟 stars
I love the characterizations of Afghanistan vet Luke and single dad Cam in this story. Two guys not ready for the bolt from above that hits when they meet at Red's Tavern over a crossword puzzle(?!). Cam is a pre-planner to the nth and Luke has seen his hopes and plans blown away so he's living in the moment, gardening and DIYing up a storm.
The story remained engaging beginning to end, what with some anonymous sharing of souls through texting, Cam's efforts to protect his three kids and a slow build of joint activities as friends, but I also loved the outdoor heat in this one!
The secondary characters add some humor and moral support, but this MM romance remains firmly fixed on the leads which is the way I prefer. Their backstories are explained to provide context for their present hang-ups, but the story, told by alternating perspective between Luke and Cam, remains firmly in the here and now. This can absolutely be read as a standalone.
I read the other three books in the series as they came out, so it's been awhile for some, but I believe this is my favorite of the four.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 12, 2021
This series just gets better with each book! I loved Cam and Luke's story! Cam was such an interesting character when we first met him in his brother Perry's book but was clearly struggling to come to terms with being a newly single dad. Luke was a great character and I loved learning more of his backstory. I hated that he struggled to make lasting connections with those around him from his time in the military but it was so sweet to see him start to open up to Cam and his kids. This book was an extremely slow burn but it was so worth it. Even though Cam and Luke took their relationship slow, it was clear they were making a real and lasting connection, even when they insisted they were just friends. As with all of Raleigh Ruebins' book, The Single Dad was beautifully written and full of just the best characters! Finishing this book felt just like a warm hug, making your heart happy and ache in the best, most fantastic way. I can't wait for Sam to get his own HEA! I hate seeing him struggle to make a real connection but I have a feeling his story is going to be so good. I hope we get to see more from Mitch, Red, Perry, and Cam in the next book! I would love a scene where everyone is together and hanging out at the Tavern! I received an ARC for an honest and fair review.
June 9, 2021
After Perry's book I was immediately curious about his brother's own HEA. Since Perry's story kinda started because of Cam's divorce from his wife Rachel.
I loved that Luke and Cam admitted to their mutual attraction from the get go, but loved it even more than their relationship progressed in a gradual manner. I was disappointed that there was not a full resolution with Cam and Rachel though. Yes, they are divorced, but I wanted Rachel to acknowledge how she continued to put down Cam for his not so spontaneous nature.
Luke allowed for Cam to explore and confront his fears, and to me that really established a great amount of substance within the beginning stages of their friendship. In return, I think Cam showed Luke that he didn't need to be alone and that sometimes it was okay admit that you needed someone.
All in all, I loved this story. Sam's story sounds like it will be next, and I am interested as to what his own HEA will end up being.
Another great read from Raleigh Ruebins!
*I received and ARC of the title and have given my full honest and voluntary review.*
I loved that Luke and Cam admitted to their mutual attraction from the get go, but loved it even more than their relationship progressed in a gradual manner. I was disappointed that there was not a full resolution with Cam and Rachel though. Yes, they are divorced, but I wanted Rachel to acknowledge how she continued to put down Cam for his not so spontaneous nature.
Luke allowed for Cam to explore and confront his fears, and to me that really established a great amount of substance within the beginning stages of their friendship. In return, I think Cam showed Luke that he didn't need to be alone and that sometimes it was okay admit that you needed someone.
All in all, I loved this story. Sam's story sounds like it will be next, and I am interested as to what his own HEA will end up being.
Another great read from Raleigh Ruebins!
*I received and ARC of the title and have given my full honest and voluntary review.*
June 11, 2021
I really e joyed this story and thought Cam & Luke both made great main characters. Luke is a retired veteran who now works as the head gardener at a local hotel, and Cam is recently divorced and likes to plan out everything perfectly. Neither of them is looking for a relationship and neither one was really looking for friendship either but it’s exactly what they found.
After a failed hook up attempt and then some very cute flirting they decide they’ll be better friends than anything else. Mean while they are also both chatting with someone online. I was actually a little disappointed with that part of the storyline because even though it was mentioned in the blurb only a few conversations are ever shown in the book. I love the trope of not realizing your online friend is someone you know in real life but this time it was such a tiny part of the story. I felt like a lot more could have been done with that.
This story was very sweet and it was fun to read about Cam & Luke deciding what they wanted to be to each other and seeing them explore new ideas together.
I did receive a free ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews but that did not influence my review.
After a failed hook up attempt and then some very cute flirting they decide they’ll be better friends than anything else. Mean while they are also both chatting with someone online. I was actually a little disappointed with that part of the storyline because even though it was mentioned in the blurb only a few conversations are ever shown in the book. I love the trope of not realizing your online friend is someone you know in real life but this time it was such a tiny part of the story. I felt like a lot more could have been done with that.
This story was very sweet and it was fun to read about Cam & Luke deciding what they wanted to be to each other and seeing them explore new ideas together.
I did receive a free ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews but that did not influence my review.
June 11, 2021
Love and Landscaping! I have one main word for this book OUTDOORS!! Let's just say there is a tent, an outdoor shower, a greenhouse.. I think you get the idea!! Cam is a sweet divorced single Dad who has Rules about dating currently and Luke is a big Lovable ex military guy who is the grounds keeper at the Inn. Luke meets Cam at Red Tavern and they begin a tentative friendship slash bit of a relationship. it is a bit of a slow burn to the really steamy stuff since Cam has a lot to work thru emotionally. Luke is such a big lovable sweetheart who just loves landscaping and other projects and is always willing to help others. It is told from both of their POV and they are both just really nice guys! There are some cameos of course with the friends and family of the previous Red Tavern books to add some humor! I received an ARC of this book and I recommend you read the entire series and this book in particular for an opposite's attract, single dad, first times romance!!! I am going to need Sam's story next!
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