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Blue Collar Romance #1
Chasing Down the Dream
From USA Today best-selling author Jaymee Jacobs comes a best friend’s sibling romance packed with heat, heart, and happily ever after.
When Kasey Ruggieri returns to her hometown after her fashion design business implodes, she barely recognizes the handsome guy with a smokin’ body who comes to fix the HVAC as her brother's best friend. The skinny teenager she once knew is gone, and when Asher strips off his shirt to work in the boiling heat, Kasey can't take her eyes off his glistening, muscular chest. Now she needs more than air conditioning to cool her desires.
Asher Wallace has had a crush on Kasey ever since he realized girls don’t have cooties. She’s beautiful, talented, and fun. But as his best friend’s older sister, she’s completely out of his league. Once Kasey left Oak Bend to pursue a fashion career in New York City, Asher shelved his boyhood crush and moved on from his college hockey days and into the family's heating and cooling business.
When Kasey and Asher finally connect, there’s enough heat to melt a Michigan winter. But when Kasey stumbles onto a new, profitable fashion venture, will she leave Asher behind for the bright lights of the big city once more? Or can Asher prove to Kasey that love and success can be found close to home?
Chasing Down the Dream is part of the Blue Collar Romance series, a multi-author series of standalone novels. Welcome to Oak Bend, where blue-collar hotties work hard and love even harder, especially when it comes to landing their happily ever after.
When Kasey Ruggieri returns to her hometown after her fashion design business implodes, she barely recognizes the handsome guy with a smokin’ body who comes to fix the HVAC as her brother's best friend. The skinny teenager she once knew is gone, and when Asher strips off his shirt to work in the boiling heat, Kasey can't take her eyes off his glistening, muscular chest. Now she needs more than air conditioning to cool her desires.
Asher Wallace has had a crush on Kasey ever since he realized girls don’t have cooties. She’s beautiful, talented, and fun. But as his best friend’s older sister, she’s completely out of his league. Once Kasey left Oak Bend to pursue a fashion career in New York City, Asher shelved his boyhood crush and moved on from his college hockey days and into the family's heating and cooling business.
When Kasey and Asher finally connect, there’s enough heat to melt a Michigan winter. But when Kasey stumbles onto a new, profitable fashion venture, will she leave Asher behind for the bright lights of the big city once more? Or can Asher prove to Kasey that love and success can be found close to home?
Chasing Down the Dream is part of the Blue Collar Romance series, a multi-author series of standalone novels. Welcome to Oak Bend, where blue-collar hotties work hard and love even harder, especially when it comes to landing their happily ever after.
133 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2021
18 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
About the author
Jaymee Jacobs
18 books97 followersJaymee Jacobs is a USA Today best-selling author, and author of the Dallas Comets series. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a BA in English literature and a psychology minor.
Her books have the same two themes: hockey and the "millennial" experience. The first is because she's a die-hard fan (particularly of the Pittsburgh Penguins). The second is because she felt that there weren't any books to which she could personally relate. So she began to write the stories she wanted to read. Her books spotlight those in the up-and-coming generation as they navigate this new era of ubiquitous technology, online dating etiquette, and what it means to "adult."
When she's not writing, you'll find Jaymee curating her cats' Instagram account, listening to true crime podcasts, scrolling through Pinterest for fructose-free recipes, or yelling at the TV during Penguins games.
Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/jaymee.jacobs
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJaymee...
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/18869...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jaymeejacobs
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jaymeejacobs/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jaymee-Jacobs/...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jayme...
Her books have the same two themes: hockey and the "millennial" experience. The first is because she's a die-hard fan (particularly of the Pittsburgh Penguins). The second is because she felt that there weren't any books to which she could personally relate. So she began to write the stories she wanted to read. Her books spotlight those in the up-and-coming generation as they navigate this new era of ubiquitous technology, online dating etiquette, and what it means to "adult."
When she's not writing, you'll find Jaymee curating her cats' Instagram account, listening to true crime podcasts, scrolling through Pinterest for fructose-free recipes, or yelling at the TV during Penguins games.
Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/jaymee.jacobs
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJaymee...
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/18869...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jaymeejacobs
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jaymeejacobs/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Jaymee-Jacobs/...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jayme...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 31, 2021
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *
When Kasey must return home from New York to Oak Bend she is devastated. All she ever wanted to do was make it big in the city as a fashion designer but with the cost of living in New York she had to come home. Luckily, she is able to stay at her brother’s house while he is on the road, but the last thing Kasey expects is her little brother’s best friend to be hot AF! Asher was the little scrawny kid who used to be around constantly when she was growing up but now, he is all man. When Asher comes by to fix the A/C Kasey is left stunned by all that he is, but she can't help but wonder what if?
Asher Wallace has had a crush on Kasey since he was a kid but never had the chance to ask her out because he was just the annoying brother’s best friend. Now, all these years later she is still way out of his league, but all those old feelings come rushing back like no time has passed. He had to put aside his crush years ago when Kasey moved to New York City but now that she is back could this be their chance?
When Kasey & Asher realize that their feelings for one another are mutual things heat up quick but so does their relationship. Asher is everything that Kasey didn't know she was missing until she found it. Kasey is everything that Asher has always wanted but as each of them try to work towards a better future will their relationship be doomed before it even really begins.
Chasing Down the Dream was a wonderful start to the Blue Collar Romance Series and I absolutely adored Kasey & Asher. Now that I have read the first book, I am even more excited for what lies ahead with the next books in the series.
When Kasey must return home from New York to Oak Bend she is devastated. All she ever wanted to do was make it big in the city as a fashion designer but with the cost of living in New York she had to come home. Luckily, she is able to stay at her brother’s house while he is on the road, but the last thing Kasey expects is her little brother’s best friend to be hot AF! Asher was the little scrawny kid who used to be around constantly when she was growing up but now, he is all man. When Asher comes by to fix the A/C Kasey is left stunned by all that he is, but she can't help but wonder what if?
Asher Wallace has had a crush on Kasey since he was a kid but never had the chance to ask her out because he was just the annoying brother’s best friend. Now, all these years later she is still way out of his league, but all those old feelings come rushing back like no time has passed. He had to put aside his crush years ago when Kasey moved to New York City but now that she is back could this be their chance?
When Kasey & Asher realize that their feelings for one another are mutual things heat up quick but so does their relationship. Asher is everything that Kasey didn't know she was missing until she found it. Kasey is everything that Asher has always wanted but as each of them try to work towards a better future will their relationship be doomed before it even really begins.
Chasing Down the Dream was a wonderful start to the Blue Collar Romance Series and I absolutely adored Kasey & Asher. Now that I have read the first book, I am even more excited for what lies ahead with the next books in the series.
September 6, 2021
I really enjoyed this best friend’s little sister romance. Kasey returns home with her tail between her legs because of a failing business and gets inspired in more than one way by her little brother’s best friend, Asher.
I really enjoyed how they inspired each other and supported each other’s dreams. As with most relationships, communication was an issue, but neither of them wanted the other person to abandon their dreams to accommodate theirs. And that, my friends, is love.
I felt bad for Kasey as her parents were nowhere near as supportive. But her brother was a bright spot with his understandable reluctance at accepting the romance of his favorite people.
Fun romance that is definitely steamy. I mean, Asher is finally with the woman of his teenage dreams. Need I say more?
I received and advance reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions.
I really enjoyed how they inspired each other and supported each other’s dreams. As with most relationships, communication was an issue, but neither of them wanted the other person to abandon their dreams to accommodate theirs. And that, my friends, is love.
I felt bad for Kasey as her parents were nowhere near as supportive. But her brother was a bright spot with his understandable reluctance at accepting the romance of his favorite people.
Fun romance that is definitely steamy. I mean, Asher is finally with the woman of his teenage dreams. Need I say more?
I received and advance reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions.
September 11, 2021
Kasey has returned home to Oak Bend after working in New York as a fashion designer. Her brother's best friend, Asher, still lives in the small town working with his father after not making it to the big league in hockey. Asher has loved Kasey since he was a teen. Her return provides him an opportunity to pursue her.
It took me a bit to get into this story. I did not care much for Kasey until she started working on clothing for Asher. Her eventual plan to create clothing for athletic men and women was a big plus for the story.
Asher was a dream from the beginning. The age difference between he and Kasey really was not an issue for me. Kasey's brother, Owen tried to make it more than it was.
The book finally settled into a good rhythm about halfway in and became almost a The Gift of the Magi story. Each of the characters was willing to give up everything for the other.
This was a solid introduction to the Blue Collar Romance series and I look forward to reading more.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author and Part-Time Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It took me a bit to get into this story. I did not care much for Kasey until she started working on clothing for Asher. Her eventual plan to create clothing for athletic men and women was a big plus for the story.
Asher was a dream from the beginning. The age difference between he and Kasey really was not an issue for me. Kasey's brother, Owen tried to make it more than it was.
The book finally settled into a good rhythm about halfway in and became almost a The Gift of the Magi story. Each of the characters was willing to give up everything for the other.
This was a solid introduction to the Blue Collar Romance series and I look forward to reading more.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author and Part-Time Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 21, 2021
I love a good fall in love with best friends sibling!!! I’ve never read from this author but I’m always up for exploring new authors!!
Asher seemed young at the beginning and it wasn’t until after a few chapters could I see the sex coming off of him in waves! I loved that he had such a close relationship with his friend and their family and it excited me to see what would happen with his affections. I really really loved the fact that he did something so uncommon for some and took Kasey’s inspiration.
Kasey seemed so lost and I wasn’t sure what would come of her career. I felt really bad for her about her own family and wanted to slap some sense into them but held off wanting to stop reading. Certain things were so upsetting and I wasn’t sure how to take some of the things she was saying to not only Asher but her family too.
I LOVE the unknown!! I haven’t really read a book like this we’re I wasn’t sure where this story was going at all. I had theories and ideas but I was so very wrong and I loved that!! It meant that this book wasn’t what everyone else was writing!! Great start to this new series!!
Asher seemed young at the beginning and it wasn’t until after a few chapters could I see the sex coming off of him in waves! I loved that he had such a close relationship with his friend and their family and it excited me to see what would happen with his affections. I really really loved the fact that he did something so uncommon for some and took Kasey’s inspiration.
Kasey seemed so lost and I wasn’t sure what would come of her career. I felt really bad for her about her own family and wanted to slap some sense into them but held off wanting to stop reading. Certain things were so upsetting and I wasn’t sure how to take some of the things she was saying to not only Asher but her family too.
I LOVE the unknown!! I haven’t really read a book like this we’re I wasn’t sure where this story was going at all. I had theories and ideas but I was so very wrong and I loved that!! It meant that this book wasn’t what everyone else was writing!! Great start to this new series!!
August 31, 2021
4 Star Chasing Down The Dream by Jaymee Jacobs
This was a well written story and I found myself drawn in to the story Ms. Jacobs wove.
This is a friends to lovers story about Kasey Ruggieri and Asher Wallace. Having returned to her hometown of Oak Bend, Kasey is shocked to see how much Asher has changed since she was last home. I really felt for Kasey, her business is in tatters and she is really at a crossroads, confused and uncertain.
For Asher seeing Kasey again brings back the feelings he has had for his best friends older sister since he was young. From the moment they re-connect, the chemistry and attraction sizzles between them. She looks to be in the bright lights of the city and Asher is happy to stay and work in the family business in Oak Bend.
I had a bit of a hard time relating to Kasey, although she grew on me, Asher on the other hand I liked. I also appreciated that they were supportive of one another, but will one of them be prepared to compromise on their dreams for the chance to pursue a relationship?
This was a well written story and I found myself drawn in to the story Ms. Jacobs wove.
This is a friends to lovers story about Kasey Ruggieri and Asher Wallace. Having returned to her hometown of Oak Bend, Kasey is shocked to see how much Asher has changed since she was last home. I really felt for Kasey, her business is in tatters and she is really at a crossroads, confused and uncertain.
For Asher seeing Kasey again brings back the feelings he has had for his best friends older sister since he was young. From the moment they re-connect, the chemistry and attraction sizzles between them. She looks to be in the bright lights of the city and Asher is happy to stay and work in the family business in Oak Bend.
I had a bit of a hard time relating to Kasey, although she grew on me, Asher on the other hand I liked. I also appreciated that they were supportive of one another, but will one of them be prepared to compromise on their dreams for the chance to pursue a relationship?
August 25, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I’m a sucker for a good brother’s best friend romance.
Asher has been in love with Kasey since he was a teenager but she never really seemed to have time for him then because she is 5 years older than him. When Asher learns that Kasey is back in town he feels that maybe he might have a chance with her.
I really loved how supportive Asher and Kasey were of each other, especially since Kasey’s parents were really not, and how Kasey pushed Asher to take another shot at his dream. I also really admired how Kasey refused to give up on her dream, despite some setbacks, and just kept trying.
I would have liked the ending to be a little different, but it didn’t spoil the book for me.
I haven’t read anything by Jaymee Jacobs and this was a really nice introduction to her books.
Asher has been in love with Kasey since he was a teenager but she never really seemed to have time for him then because she is 5 years older than him. When Asher learns that Kasey is back in town he feels that maybe he might have a chance with her.
I really loved how supportive Asher and Kasey were of each other, especially since Kasey’s parents were really not, and how Kasey pushed Asher to take another shot at his dream. I also really admired how Kasey refused to give up on her dream, despite some setbacks, and just kept trying.
I would have liked the ending to be a little different, but it didn’t spoil the book for me.
I haven’t read anything by Jaymee Jacobs and this was a really nice introduction to her books.
August 24, 2021
One of my favourite tropes in a book, brother/sister/b-friend.
Asher has a good job which he enjoys, it’s his dads company and he works hard hoping one day his dad will pass the company on to him. But Asher can’t help being a little envious of the life his best friend has, because at one time it was his dream too.
Kasey has returned home a failure, except no one knows, her big city dreams are shattered. To top it all the aircon is broken. Her brother has a friend who can fix it though, Asher.
Kasey and Asher made a sweet couple, but can they make their dreams come true in the small town where they live, or are they both putting their hopes too high.
Chasing Down the Dream was an entertaining book and a very easygoing read.
The characters were well developed and interacted very well together, a great couple. This is a definite must read book for me, I enjoyed it very much!
Asher has a good job which he enjoys, it’s his dads company and he works hard hoping one day his dad will pass the company on to him. But Asher can’t help being a little envious of the life his best friend has, because at one time it was his dream too.
Kasey has returned home a failure, except no one knows, her big city dreams are shattered. To top it all the aircon is broken. Her brother has a friend who can fix it though, Asher.
Kasey and Asher made a sweet couple, but can they make their dreams come true in the small town where they live, or are they both putting their hopes too high.
Chasing Down the Dream was an entertaining book and a very easygoing read.
The characters were well developed and interacted very well together, a great couple. This is a definite must read book for me, I enjoyed it very much!
September 6, 2021
**I received this book as an ARC in return for my honest review**
This was such a sweet book! Asher and Kasey are so cute together. They help each other fight for their dreams, even when those dreams change. A great start to this series, I’m excited to read the rest!
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
This was such a sweet book! Asher and Kasey are so cute together. They help each other fight for their dreams, even when those dreams change. A great start to this series, I’m excited to read the rest!
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
August 21, 2021
(This book has been sent to me as an ARC for an honest review)
Don't let the innocuous title fool you, this book was deeper than I thought. The characters dived into subjects that hit home (chasing dreams, gender norms inside a heteronormative family, insecurity etc.). Especially now I'm taking a gap year and struggling to find my path, this book boosted me.
Let's talk about what I enjoyed:
✔ The characters are well developped. They reflect on their own actions and they communicate. Although I love myself some "misunderstanding" or "miscommunication" in romange genre, it was refreshing to not see that in this book. Especially when it was dealing with both characters being insecure about their future. It still felt natural.
✔ The topics, oviously.
✔ The denouement.
✔ Parents treating their boy and daughter differently aka they raise their daughters and play with with their sons.
✔ Great siblings relationship.
Don't let the innocuous title fool you, this book was deeper than I thought. The characters dived into subjects that hit home (chasing dreams, gender norms inside a heteronormative family, insecurity etc.). Especially now I'm taking a gap year and struggling to find my path, this book boosted me.
Let's talk about what I enjoyed:
✔ The characters are well developped. They reflect on their own actions and they communicate. Although I love myself some "misunderstanding" or "miscommunication" in romange genre, it was refreshing to not see that in this book. Especially when it was dealing with both characters being insecure about their future. It still felt natural.
✔ The topics, oviously.
✔ The denouement.
✔ Parents treating their boy and daughter differently aka they raise their daughters and play with with their sons.
✔ Great siblings relationship.
September 7, 2021
It's a classic boy met best friend's older sister, harbored a HUGE crush for years while she barely new he existed...at least, until ten plus years later when BOTH their worlds are going through some changes, and the chance they never thought they would have, just might come to pass. Unless history repeats itself and dreams get in the way. But just like life changes, SO CAN DREAMS...it all depends on the dreamer, and sometimes those changes can be remarkably sweeter.
I liked the faster pace of this novel, as it never really let you sit and ponder just what was going to happen while keeping you in suspense through pages and pages of filler. Yes, there is story. Yes, there are complications. Yes, there are a million what-ifs to consider, maybes to contend with, and potential heartaches just waiting in the wings, but it all comes together fairly seamlessly, allowing us to enjoy the ride as it unfolds. Kasey was a lost soul, down on her luck, and with more than a bruised ego. She needed someone to listen, someone to show her kindness, someone to remind her that failure isn't when you don't succeed at something you've tried, but rather never having the guts to give it a go in the first place. Asher was that someone. Asher was also that someone that needed to hear that same message, which of course prompts him to reconsider his own life path, and makes more unexpected waves, but in the end, the biggest waves he surfs with ease, as he takes his life from standstill to the starting line.
In the end, it was a great Contemporary Romance with a believable storyline, great messages...and a little spice. If you're a fan of the author, you won't be disappointed. If this is your first time hearing about her work, you'll enjoy the introduction!
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
I liked the faster pace of this novel, as it never really let you sit and ponder just what was going to happen while keeping you in suspense through pages and pages of filler. Yes, there is story. Yes, there are complications. Yes, there are a million what-ifs to consider, maybes to contend with, and potential heartaches just waiting in the wings, but it all comes together fairly seamlessly, allowing us to enjoy the ride as it unfolds. Kasey was a lost soul, down on her luck, and with more than a bruised ego. She needed someone to listen, someone to show her kindness, someone to remind her that failure isn't when you don't succeed at something you've tried, but rather never having the guts to give it a go in the first place. Asher was that someone. Asher was also that someone that needed to hear that same message, which of course prompts him to reconsider his own life path, and makes more unexpected waves, but in the end, the biggest waves he surfs with ease, as he takes his life from standstill to the starting line.
In the end, it was a great Contemporary Romance with a believable storyline, great messages...and a little spice. If you're a fan of the author, you won't be disappointed. If this is your first time hearing about her work, you'll enjoy the introduction!
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
September 8, 2021
I really enjoyed this best friend’s siblings romance book. I haven’t read anything by Jaymee Jacobs before but I am planning on checking out some of her other books. Kasey has returned home from New York after her dream of being a designer in the fashion world is shattered. She’s staying at her brother Owen’s place as she just wants to lay low but when a hottie shows up to take a look at the air conditioning it’s definitely more than the house that is heating up. Kasey can’t believe this is Asher her brother’s best friend for years and was always the scrawny little kid that was over at their house. He certainly isn’t little or scrawny anymore. Asher went to college on a hockey scholarship but when it came time for scouts to contact players he never heard anything so he went home to work with his dad at the family hearing and cooling business. Asher has been in love with Kasey since he found out girls didn’t really have cooties lol.
This book had me cheering them both on, upset/frustrated with a couple of scenes with Kasey’s parents and her brother and her brother with Asher even though they are very realistic and I have totally seen it happen. Jaymee did an awesome job with this book and I can’t wait to check out more by her!! I received this advanced readers copy for my honest review. Happy reading! 😃
This book had me cheering them both on, upset/frustrated with a couple of scenes with Kasey’s parents and her brother and her brother with Asher even though they are very realistic and I have totally seen it happen. Jaymee did an awesome job with this book and I can’t wait to check out more by her!! I received this advanced readers copy for my honest review. Happy reading! 😃
September 1, 2021
Kasey and Asher have known each other for years. Asher has had a crush on Kasey for as long as he can remember. Being her brother's best friend and five years older than Asher, Kasey has always thought of him as "her brother's friend." Until the day when she returns home after several years and she needs him to fix her AC. Shirt off, chest glistening, Kasey instantly realizes that he is no longer only her brother's friend. Can their two worlds now meld into one or will life's challenges keep them apart?
Chasing Down the Dream is the first book in the Blue Collar Romance series and it did not disappoint!
Chasing Down the Dream is the first book in the Blue Collar Romance series and it did not disappoint!
September 2, 2021
I received this as an arc from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review
This was a blue collar/ small town romance. This was my first book by the author so I didn’t know what to expect but from the start I was captivated. I loved how it featured a slightly older woman and a younger guy as it’s so often the other way around. Asher and Kasey had really great chemistry and I loved how he didn’t let her push him away. I loved this story.
This was a blue collar/ small town romance. This was my first book by the author so I didn’t know what to expect but from the start I was captivated. I loved how it featured a slightly older woman and a younger guy as it’s so often the other way around. Asher and Kasey had really great chemistry and I loved how he didn’t let her push him away. I loved this story.
September 5, 2021
A second look is all it takes to spin the heart on it's axis. Jacobs awakens the emotions with a story of what ifs and maybe this time. Chasing Down the Dream gives the road less traveled a second look with intoxicating characters and a captivating storyline. Kasey and Asher are more than a little clueless, but no less irresistible. A fresh pair of eyes, an open heart and a sprinkle of humor will put this romance at the top of any must read list.
September 4, 2021
Chasing Down the Dream is a swoon worthy best friend’s sister romance. I love love small town romances! Asher was such a good man. He always had feelings for Kasey, but between the age difference and his best friend’s sister, Asher didn’t stand a chance. That is until circumstances forces Kasey to move back to her small town. Asher gets his second chance and he waste no time proving to Kasey he no longer the young boy she grew up with. Both Asher and Kasey want to pursue their dreams but what will become of their new romance? Is love worth giving up on your dream or will Asher and Kasey be able to have it all? This book gives you all the feels. I definitely recommend this book.
*I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
*I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
September 5, 2021
The first book I've read by the author for me and I enjoyed it. I didn't know what to expect from the author but Kasey and Asher's story was a good read. They are good characters and had really great chemistry. But Kasey can come off as indecisive sometimes even though she's older, while Asher is more certain. But I'm glad that Asher didn't let her push him away. This is one fast-paced and sweet read.
August 25, 2021
This book was ok. It was a quick and easy read. I think the problem for me was I just didn't buy into Kasey and Asher's relationship. Kasey is 5 years older than Asher and I felt like she was really immature for being 30. Asher really deserved better I thought.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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September 7, 2021I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Everyone has dreams. some people chase their dreams and some let them go, settling for what they have. Growing up, Asher had two dreams. Kasey, his best friend's big sister, and to play professional hockey. Kasey had the dream to get out of their small town and make it as a fashion designer in New York. Asher, knowing nothing would come of his dream of Kasey, let playing pro fall by the wayside as well. Kasey went after her dream in New York, but had to return home when things just wasn't going her way. When Asher and Kasey meet up again in their little hometown they wonder if their dreams can change yet stay the same.
This is another wonderful read from Jaymee Jacobs. It's an easy read with a little bit of hockey, a little bit of self doubt, a lot of love, and a whole lot of dreaming.
Everyone has dreams. some people chase their dreams and some let them go, settling for what they have. Growing up, Asher had two dreams. Kasey, his best friend's big sister, and to play professional hockey. Kasey had the dream to get out of their small town and make it as a fashion designer in New York. Asher, knowing nothing would come of his dream of Kasey, let playing pro fall by the wayside as well. Kasey went after her dream in New York, but had to return home when things just wasn't going her way. When Asher and Kasey meet up again in their little hometown they wonder if their dreams can change yet stay the same.
This is another wonderful read from Jaymee Jacobs. It's an easy read with a little bit of hockey, a little bit of self doubt, a lot of love, and a whole lot of dreaming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
August 11, 2021
Chasing Down the Dream (Blue Collar Romance #1) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A Place To Belong (Blue Collar Romance #2)For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 25, 2021
It's my first book by Jaymee Jacob's, and I 'm sure it won't be my last. The characters are relatable and well constructed. Asher is not your typical book boyfriend. Their story navigates between such sensitive and introspective things as failure, fear of not fulfilling your dreams, and perseverance. Although it ends in a HEA, it's quite realistic and maybe a little bittersweet.
September 6, 2021
A good read with childhood fantasies, love, dreams and failures.
Asher enjoys his job working for his dads company, he hopes one day to have it passed down to himself, he is happy in the small town he lives, but envious of the life his best friend lives, as it was, at one time, his own dream.
Kasey has failed, her dream is shattered and she has come home with her tail between her legs, except no one knows. When the aircon is broken her brothers best friend comes to fix it, and it just happens to be Asher.
Can they both live their dreams in the small town they live in, or do they both want to reach for the stars, which could mean losing the relationship they are trying to start.
Asher enjoys his job working for his dads company, he hopes one day to have it passed down to himself, he is happy in the small town he lives, but envious of the life his best friend lives, as it was, at one time, his own dream.
Kasey has failed, her dream is shattered and she has come home with her tail between her legs, except no one knows. When the aircon is broken her brothers best friend comes to fix it, and it just happens to be Asher.
Can they both live their dreams in the small town they live in, or do they both want to reach for the stars, which could mean losing the relationship they are trying to start.
January 23, 2025
Chasing Down the Dream: A Best Friend's Sibling Romance by Jaymee Jacobs is the first installment in the new series Blue Collar Romance Books set in Oak Bend. When designer Kasey Ruggieri returns home after failing to launch her fashion design business, she is only looking for a haven to hide and watch her dreams dissolve. Instead, she becomes reacquainted with her younger brother’s best friend, Asher Wallace. Asher was in and out of their home while growing up, subsequently, Kasey was aware of him and his outsized crush! However, she was not ready for the man he grew up to be. Sensitive, kind, and sexy Asher said all the right things to make her feel better about her situation and to jump start her confidence. For Asher, Kasey is the woman he measured every other girl against…. only to find them lacking. Asher is well able to encourage and motivate Kasey because he knows all about delayed dreams. He envisioned himself playing professional hockey, not working in his family’s air conditioning company. After spending time with Asher, Kasey comes to see him as so much more than her little brother’s friend. She sees him as a desirable man; someone she could build a future with. I really enjoyed this down to earth story and I especially liked Owen’s (Kasey’s brother’s) reaction to their coupling. To Owen, Asher was his BROTHER, so he felt like his siblings were hooking up! By encouraging and supporting each other, Asher and Kasey were able to make their dreams turn into reality. The only problem is that now their realized dreams might just separate them!
This book has been sent to me as an ARC for an honest review.
This book has been sent to me as an ARC for an honest review.
September 11, 2021
I was excited to learn of a new series to be written by several different authors. Each book will be a stand alone about blue collar people. Frankly, I good use a change from all the "billionaires" in the world. (Are there really that many?) Anyway, "Chasing Down the Dream" is the first in the series. This was also the first time I had read anything by Jaymee Jacobs.
Overall, I liked this book. I found it clever the way Jacobs created a role reversal for the two main characters. Kasey (h) is the older sister of Asher's (H) best friend. Asher has always had a crush on Kasey. She moves away after high school to persue her dream and now, ten years later, is back. Asher finds he still has feelings for Kasey. It was cute how at one point, Asher and Kasey were in the front seat of his car and Kasey begins to lean over toward Asher. "I froze, my heart pounding in my chest. Was she going to kiss me?" It's usually the other way around - with the (h) wondering if the (H) is going to kiss her.
The two problems I had with this book were not really a big deal, but still bugged me. First, I like when the description of the main characters matches the cover of the book. I realize it is not the same people, but if an author is going to go to the trouble of writing about the (H) and his blonde hair and blue eyes over and over again, shouldn't the character portraying him match that description? Second, I appreciate when an author is careful about things like time, distance, and age. In this case, the age difference of the main characters seems to change. Most of the time, they are 5 years apart. But, in one chapter, Kasey talks about how she was a senior and Asher was a freshman. That is usually 14 and 17. If Asher was 5 years younger, he would have been 12 and in seventh grade. In another chapter, Asher talks about the two years since he graduated from college. Most people are 21 or 22 when they graduate. That would make him 23 or 24, which would match up with him being a freshman when Kasey left; but, he is supposed to be 25 in the story. The other thing that was a bit off the timeline was Kasey's success. She was sewing everything by herself in the summer and then by September, she suddenly had stores in NYC, Phila., and L.A. ! WOW! That's some fast stitching!
It's a cute story that just needed some fine tuning.
Overall, I liked this book. I found it clever the way Jacobs created a role reversal for the two main characters. Kasey (h) is the older sister of Asher's (H) best friend. Asher has always had a crush on Kasey. She moves away after high school to persue her dream and now, ten years later, is back. Asher finds he still has feelings for Kasey. It was cute how at one point, Asher and Kasey were in the front seat of his car and Kasey begins to lean over toward Asher. "I froze, my heart pounding in my chest. Was she going to kiss me?" It's usually the other way around - with the (h) wondering if the (H) is going to kiss her.
The two problems I had with this book were not really a big deal, but still bugged me. First, I like when the description of the main characters matches the cover of the book. I realize it is not the same people, but if an author is going to go to the trouble of writing about the (H) and his blonde hair and blue eyes over and over again, shouldn't the character portraying him match that description? Second, I appreciate when an author is careful about things like time, distance, and age. In this case, the age difference of the main characters seems to change. Most of the time, they are 5 years apart. But, in one chapter, Kasey talks about how she was a senior and Asher was a freshman. That is usually 14 and 17. If Asher was 5 years younger, he would have been 12 and in seventh grade. In another chapter, Asher talks about the two years since he graduated from college. Most people are 21 or 22 when they graduate. That would make him 23 or 24, which would match up with him being a freshman when Kasey left; but, he is supposed to be 25 in the story. The other thing that was a bit off the timeline was Kasey's success. She was sewing everything by herself in the summer and then by September, she suddenly had stores in NYC, Phila., and L.A. ! WOW! That's some fast stitching!
It's a cute story that just needed some fine tuning.
September 6, 2021
Chasing Down the Dream is my first Jaymee Jacobs book!
While I also have a book in this Blue Collar Romance Series, I found it fun to read about Oak Bend, Michigan through Kasey and Asher’s eyes. I loved the references to Gino’s and Farm Barn. I also loved that Asher was a hockey player, and that Ms. Jacobs used his hockey career and dreams in the plot.
I don’t live in a small town, but I have lived in my town all my life. I love it here. So, I found Kasey to be an interesting character. Kasey Ruggieri was desperate to leave Oak Bend, because she felt her dreams were too big for the small town. But she’s back home in Oak Bend when the book begins, after failing at a fashion career in New York. I love that Kasey was a designer, (creative people inspire me) and that she was only home to lick her wounds and bounce back tougher and more determined to succeed. While back home, Kasey runs into Asher Wallace, her younger brother’s best friend. And it’s obvious that Asher’s teenage crush on her hasn’t gone anywhere.
Kasey and Asher are so cute, so fun together. I love a best friend’s sibling romance. I enjoyed seeing their attraction grow, and I also loved that they were determined to make it work, no matter what Kasey’s brother thought of it.
Readers will love the small town feel of the story, the attraction between Kasey and Asher, and the very realistic way life gets in the way of true love. I enjoyed rooting them on toward their happy ever after! ~Tracy Broemmer, author of the contemporary romance series, The H Books
While I also have a book in this Blue Collar Romance Series, I found it fun to read about Oak Bend, Michigan through Kasey and Asher’s eyes. I loved the references to Gino’s and Farm Barn. I also loved that Asher was a hockey player, and that Ms. Jacobs used his hockey career and dreams in the plot.
I don’t live in a small town, but I have lived in my town all my life. I love it here. So, I found Kasey to be an interesting character. Kasey Ruggieri was desperate to leave Oak Bend, because she felt her dreams were too big for the small town. But she’s back home in Oak Bend when the book begins, after failing at a fashion career in New York. I love that Kasey was a designer, (creative people inspire me) and that she was only home to lick her wounds and bounce back tougher and more determined to succeed. While back home, Kasey runs into Asher Wallace, her younger brother’s best friend. And it’s obvious that Asher’s teenage crush on her hasn’t gone anywhere.
Kasey and Asher are so cute, so fun together. I love a best friend’s sibling romance. I enjoyed seeing their attraction grow, and I also loved that they were determined to make it work, no matter what Kasey’s brother thought of it.
Readers will love the small town feel of the story, the attraction between Kasey and Asher, and the very realistic way life gets in the way of true love. I enjoyed rooting them on toward their happy ever after! ~Tracy Broemmer, author of the contemporary romance series, The H Books
September 6, 2021
Stephannie's 4 Star Review: Kasey Ruggieri returns home after failing as a fashion designer in New York. She comes home with her tail between her legs and tries to regroup because she isn't giving up her dream. Asher Wallace has changed a lot from the young boy Kasey remembers. She remembers her brother's best friend having a crush on her but he wasn't even a second glance then. Now he is all man and grown-up and she wonders if he might still feel anything towards her.
Asher has always had a major crush on Kasey but her coming home brings those feeling back to the surface. These two have chemistry and are both attracted to each other. But both are at crossroads in their lives. Kasey isn't giving up on being a fashion designer. Asher starts to wonder if he didn't give it his all to be a professional ballplayer like his best friend did. There is also their budding romance too. Kasey and Asher are both chasing down their dreams, but what do they look like for each of them? Can they have their professional dreams and their personal dreams with each other too?
I really liked this one. I loved that it is deeper than you originally think it might be. I love the character growth that these two go through to get to their dream. But what is their dream? They reconnect at a time they are both at a crossroads in their lives. Will they end up together at the end? One-click this one today to find out. Great read without a ton of drama.
Asher has always had a major crush on Kasey but her coming home brings those feeling back to the surface. These two have chemistry and are both attracted to each other. But both are at crossroads in their lives. Kasey isn't giving up on being a fashion designer. Asher starts to wonder if he didn't give it his all to be a professional ballplayer like his best friend did. There is also their budding romance too. Kasey and Asher are both chasing down their dreams, but what do they look like for each of them? Can they have their professional dreams and their personal dreams with each other too?
I really liked this one. I loved that it is deeper than you originally think it might be. I love the character growth that these two go through to get to their dream. But what is their dream? They reconnect at a time they are both at a crossroads in their lives. Will they end up together at the end? One-click this one today to find out. Great read without a ton of drama.
September 20, 2021
Sweet beginning to a new small-town romance series!
Kasey is a designer who returns to her small hometown to lick her wounds after her fashion business fails. Her brother has allowed her to stay at his home while he is traveling, playing professional hockey. When the AC quits, he sends over his friend, Asher, to fix it. This isn’t the Asher that Kasey remembers. This is no skinny boy; this is a full-grown sexy man. Those five years separating them doesn’t seem to matter anymore.
Asher had dreams just like Kasey....to play professional hockey, but he let go of those dreams and now works in his family business. Once he sees Kasey, all those feelings he had for her come roaring back.
As the two reconnect, each one of them realizes there is some major electricity between them. The two begin spending more time together and really bond over their dreams that seem to have become out of their reach. They are really cute together, and I loved how they supported one another in not giving up on her fashion designer dream and him becoming a professional hockey player. But, as they come closer to ascertaining their own dreams, will their newfound relationship end before it ever really gets started?
This is the first book in the Blue Collar Romance Series that is a part of a standalone series. Each book is written by a different writer, and it looks like it is going to be a good little series with great characters and a great setting! I’m definitely looking forward to reading more!
Kasey is a designer who returns to her small hometown to lick her wounds after her fashion business fails. Her brother has allowed her to stay at his home while he is traveling, playing professional hockey. When the AC quits, he sends over his friend, Asher, to fix it. This isn’t the Asher that Kasey remembers. This is no skinny boy; this is a full-grown sexy man. Those five years separating them doesn’t seem to matter anymore.
Asher had dreams just like Kasey....to play professional hockey, but he let go of those dreams and now works in his family business. Once he sees Kasey, all those feelings he had for her come roaring back.
As the two reconnect, each one of them realizes there is some major electricity between them. The two begin spending more time together and really bond over their dreams that seem to have become out of their reach. They are really cute together, and I loved how they supported one another in not giving up on her fashion designer dream and him becoming a professional hockey player. But, as they come closer to ascertaining their own dreams, will their newfound relationship end before it ever really gets started?
This is the first book in the Blue Collar Romance Series that is a part of a standalone series. Each book is written by a different writer, and it looks like it is going to be a good little series with great characters and a great setting! I’m definitely looking forward to reading more!
September 3, 2021
Kasey has just moved back to her small-town home after living in the city for a few years. She feels crushed and defeated, in her mind she's a failure. She didn't make it as a fashion designer, and returns with her tail tucked between her legs. In fact, she doesn't even let her parents know she's back, opting to stay with her brother.
When there's a mishap at the house, her brothers best friend Asher comes to her rescue. Asher who works for his family's company. He's content and happy living there permanently. Or is he? After getting closer with Kacey and watching her chase his dreams, does he want to chase his, too?
Kasey is his long-time crush, they grew up together; though Kasey was a few years older so they didn't run in the same crowd. What will happen when they reunite? Will Kasey's brother be an issue? Will their career dreams crush their romance?
This was a fast-paced, small-town, brother's best friend romance. It was cute and sweet, realistic, with some added spice of more than just vanilla in the love department. Both characters were relatable.
Jaymee is a new to me author. The story was a quick read but didn't feel rushed until the very end. It did speed up quite a bit in the last couple chapters compared to the rest of the book.
If you need a quick, cute, and engaging read, pick this one up.
When there's a mishap at the house, her brothers best friend Asher comes to her rescue. Asher who works for his family's company. He's content and happy living there permanently. Or is he? After getting closer with Kacey and watching her chase his dreams, does he want to chase his, too?
Kasey is his long-time crush, they grew up together; though Kasey was a few years older so they didn't run in the same crowd. What will happen when they reunite? Will Kasey's brother be an issue? Will their career dreams crush their romance?
This was a fast-paced, small-town, brother's best friend romance. It was cute and sweet, realistic, with some added spice of more than just vanilla in the love department. Both characters were relatable.
Jaymee is a new to me author. The story was a quick read but didn't feel rushed until the very end. It did speed up quite a bit in the last couple chapters compared to the rest of the book.
If you need a quick, cute, and engaging read, pick this one up.
September 8, 2021
Chasing down the dream by Jaymee Jacobs.
Blue colour romance book 1.
When Kasey Ruggieri returns to her hometown after her fashion design business implodes, she barely recognizes the handsome guy with a smokin’ body who comes to fix the HVAC as her brother's best friend. The skinny teenager she once knew is gone, and when Asher strips off his shirt to work in the boiling heat, Kasey can't take her eyes off his glistening, muscular chest. Now she needs more than air conditioning to cool her desires.
Asher Wallace has had a crush on Kasey ever since he realized girls don’t have cooties. She’s beautiful, talented, and fun. But as his best friend’s older sister, she’s completely out of his league. Once Kasey left Oak Bend to pursue a fashion career in New York City, Asher shelved his boyhood crush and moved on from his college hockey days and into the family's heating and cooling business.
When Kasey and Asher finally connect, there’s enough heat to melt a Michigan winter. But when Kasey stumbles onto a new, profitable fashion venture, will she leave Asher behind for the bright lights of the big city once more? Or can Asher prove to Kasey that love and success can be found close to home?
I love romance books. This one I read in one sitting. I loved Kasey and Asher characters. Can't wait for next book. 5*.
Blue colour romance book 1.
When Kasey Ruggieri returns to her hometown after her fashion design business implodes, she barely recognizes the handsome guy with a smokin’ body who comes to fix the HVAC as her brother's best friend. The skinny teenager she once knew is gone, and when Asher strips off his shirt to work in the boiling heat, Kasey can't take her eyes off his glistening, muscular chest. Now she needs more than air conditioning to cool her desires.
Asher Wallace has had a crush on Kasey ever since he realized girls don’t have cooties. She’s beautiful, talented, and fun. But as his best friend’s older sister, she’s completely out of his league. Once Kasey left Oak Bend to pursue a fashion career in New York City, Asher shelved his boyhood crush and moved on from his college hockey days and into the family's heating and cooling business.
When Kasey and Asher finally connect, there’s enough heat to melt a Michigan winter. But when Kasey stumbles onto a new, profitable fashion venture, will she leave Asher behind for the bright lights of the big city once more? Or can Asher prove to Kasey that love and success can be found close to home?
I love romance books. This one I read in one sitting. I loved Kasey and Asher characters. Can't wait for next book. 5*.
September 10, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
First let me just say that this author is new to me. I LOVED this story. The plot was well written and flowed very nicely. I also loved the fact that it was written in a dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into the characters' thoughts really help me to connect to them and to relate and understand them better.
Kasey is forced to return to her hometown as she hit one too many roadblocks in her quest for fulfill her career dream. Having her own label as a fashion designer has always been a goal of her's. Unfortunately the cost of living in New York was only attainable for a short while. She asks her brother, Owen, to stay at his home while he is away playing professional hockey.
Asher, is a childhood friend of Owen's. Asher came back home when his dreams of landing on a NHL team wasn't fulfilled and now works for his parents HVAC company. Owen calls Asher when the furnace won't shut off and Kasey is beside herself. Asher is 5 years younger than Kasey but he has ALWAYS had a big crush on her. I love seeing a male protagonist who is younger than the female!!!!
This story is slightly sexy with mostly few fade out scenes. I would suggest that a parent give consent to someone under the age of 18.
First let me just say that this author is new to me. I LOVED this story. The plot was well written and flowed very nicely. I also loved the fact that it was written in a dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into the characters' thoughts really help me to connect to them and to relate and understand them better.
Kasey is forced to return to her hometown as she hit one too many roadblocks in her quest for fulfill her career dream. Having her own label as a fashion designer has always been a goal of her's. Unfortunately the cost of living in New York was only attainable for a short while. She asks her brother, Owen, to stay at his home while he is away playing professional hockey.
Asher, is a childhood friend of Owen's. Asher came back home when his dreams of landing on a NHL team wasn't fulfilled and now works for his parents HVAC company. Owen calls Asher when the furnace won't shut off and Kasey is beside herself. Asher is 5 years younger than Kasey but he has ALWAYS had a big crush on her. I love seeing a male protagonist who is younger than the female!!!!
This story is slightly sexy with mostly few fade out scenes. I would suggest that a parent give consent to someone under the age of 18.
August 29, 2021
3.5 Stars!
POV: Dual (1st Person)
Tropes: Brother's best friend, Slight reverse age gap
Triggers: None
Likes: I'm a sucker for a brother's best friend, especially when the brother kind of forbids anything happening. Also liked how she was a bit older than him. And who doesn't want a bit of sweet small town romance sometimes.
Dislikes: I wasn't super keen on Asher's journey, he felt a bit too beta for my liking. Plus give me a bit more smut please!
Synopsis: Chasing Down The Dream follows Kasey as she moves back home from New York after her dreams of becoming a successful fashion designer seem to come crashing down. And Asher, her brother's best friend, who comes round to help fix her air con. Although long gone is the scrawny boy she remembers, he is all man and muscles now. He too once had his own dreams, of playing the NHL, but after things didn't quite go to plan, he abandoned them to join the family business back home and has been there ever since. Can these two make is work while chasing down their dreams once again? Or will something have to give? A sweet small town romance, even though I wanted to shake Kasey at times, Asher was such a sweetheart!
POV: Dual (1st Person)
Tropes: Brother's best friend, Slight reverse age gap
Triggers: None
Likes: I'm a sucker for a brother's best friend, especially when the brother kind of forbids anything happening. Also liked how she was a bit older than him. And who doesn't want a bit of sweet small town romance sometimes.
Dislikes: I wasn't super keen on Asher's journey, he felt a bit too beta for my liking. Plus give me a bit more smut please!
Synopsis: Chasing Down The Dream follows Kasey as she moves back home from New York after her dreams of becoming a successful fashion designer seem to come crashing down. And Asher, her brother's best friend, who comes round to help fix her air con. Although long gone is the scrawny boy she remembers, he is all man and muscles now. He too once had his own dreams, of playing the NHL, but after things didn't quite go to plan, he abandoned them to join the family business back home and has been there ever since. Can these two make is work while chasing down their dreams once again? Or will something have to give? A sweet small town romance, even though I wanted to shake Kasey at times, Asher was such a sweetheart!
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