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Skins #2
Murmure
Harry Foster, kinésithérapeute solitaire, a le monde à ses pieds. Une liste de clients bien remplie, un nombre d’abonnés Instagram à six chiffres et un contrat d’édition pour un livre qu’il n’a pas le temps d’écrire jusqu’à ce que son agent lui offre une pause – une retraite sur la côte sauvage du Sud-Ouest.
Joe Carter, cavalier de Cornouailles, se sent seul lui aussi. Sauver des chevaux et gérer Whisper Farm occupent la majeure partie de ses journées, et la nuit, il tente de jongler avec les comptes bancaires périlleux de la ferme.
À la suite de la suggestion de sa sœur, il loue son unique chambre à un citadin, et quand Harry arrive, il est tout ce que Joe n’est pas – calme, patient et suffisamment beau pour être exactement le genre de distraction dont Joe n’a pas besoin.
Harry n’a pas le temps pour les distractions non plus – même pour un fermier au torse nu qui passe devant la fenêtre de sa chambre –, mais son hôte lunatique s’avère impossible à ignorer.
Sur le papier, ils n’ont rien en commun, mais Joe est beau… radieux, et lorsqu’un accident met sa vie entre les mains réparatrices d’Harry, le murmure du véritable amour est inévitable. Si les problèmes qui ont mis la ferme à genoux en premier lieu ne viennent pas s’interposer.
Joe Carter, cavalier de Cornouailles, se sent seul lui aussi. Sauver des chevaux et gérer Whisper Farm occupent la majeure partie de ses journées, et la nuit, il tente de jongler avec les comptes bancaires périlleux de la ferme.
À la suite de la suggestion de sa sœur, il loue son unique chambre à un citadin, et quand Harry arrive, il est tout ce que Joe n’est pas – calme, patient et suffisamment beau pour être exactement le genre de distraction dont Joe n’a pas besoin.
Harry n’a pas le temps pour les distractions non plus – même pour un fermier au torse nu qui passe devant la fenêtre de sa chambre –, mais son hôte lunatique s’avère impossible à ignorer.
Sur le papier, ils n’ont rien en commun, mais Joe est beau… radieux, et lorsqu’un accident met sa vie entre les mains réparatrices d’Harry, le murmure du véritable amour est inévitable. Si les problèmes qui ont mis la ferme à genoux en premier lieu ne viennent pas s’interposer.
229 pages, ebook
First published May 1, 2018
144 people are currently reading
782 people want to read
About the author
Garrett Leigh
94 books2,399 followersShe/Her
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
April 29, 2018
4.25
I've said it before,I'm sure,many times but Garrett Leigh is one of the best Authors for creating characters who fit together perfectly and have great chemistry and Harry and Joe are no exception.
Harry,is a Physiotherapist in London.He should be happy but he's lonely,although I'm not sure he knows what's missing from his life.He has a publishing deal to write a book but finding the time is another matter so when his Agent suggests taking some time off ,he's not entirely convinced but finds himself renting a room at Whisper Farm in the south west of England.
Joe, is also lonely,although with his hands full running Whisper Farm he doesn't have time to dwell on it too much.Taking in abandoned animals and juggling the farm's finances have consumed him.When his sister suggests renting out a room he's not happy but knows it makes sense,financially.
Joe and Harry couldn't be more different.A city boy and a country boy shouldn't work on paper....but it does,both men seem to bring out the best in each other.
-a slow burn that was totally believable.Their friendship started tentatively as they both got to know each other and broke down each others defences,
-a strong chemistry between them and the sex scenes and their placement in the story was just right,
-great supporting characters that complimented the story,
-and,of course,the fact that Garrett Leigh always keeps it British is a huge plus for me.
I really enjoyed this and would definitely recommend it...
An Arc of Whisper was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
I've said it before,I'm sure,many times but Garrett Leigh is one of the best Authors for creating characters who fit together perfectly and have great chemistry and Harry and Joe are no exception.
Harry,is a Physiotherapist in London.He should be happy but he's lonely,although I'm not sure he knows what's missing from his life.He has a publishing deal to write a book but finding the time is another matter so when his Agent suggests taking some time off ,he's not entirely convinced but finds himself renting a room at Whisper Farm in the south west of England.
Joe, is also lonely,although with his hands full running Whisper Farm he doesn't have time to dwell on it too much.Taking in abandoned animals and juggling the farm's finances have consumed him.When his sister suggests renting out a room he's not happy but knows it makes sense,financially.
Joe and Harry couldn't be more different.A city boy and a country boy shouldn't work on paper....but it does,both men seem to bring out the best in each other.
-a slow burn that was totally believable.Their friendship started tentatively as they both got to know each other and broke down each others defences,
-a strong chemistry between them and the sex scenes and their placement in the story was just right,
-great supporting characters that complimented the story,
-and,of course,the fact that Garrett Leigh always keeps it British is a huge plus for me.
I really enjoyed this and would definitely recommend it...
An Arc of Whisper was kindly provided to DirtyBooksObsession in exchange for an honest review.
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
December 7, 2018
***4.5 Stars***
And emotions are running high in Joe Carter. There is no denying the wildness inside of him, which got him into trouble quite a few times. A wildness, maybe part of his Roma ancestry, but definitely part of the responsibility lying on his shoulders to keep his inheritance up and running when the odds are stacked against him. Whisper Farm is a sanctuary for old, ill-kept and mistreated horses, already run-down by his beloved dead grandfather and his wayward father, a man he wants to hate, but the boy in him is still longing for his love. The farm and the animals are his lifeblood, ...
... however, dealing with the lack of much needed funds and space for the animals, family issues and prejudices becomes a daily struggle that weighs heavily on him and makes him weary to the bone, but it is not in his nature to give up. Although, when a stranger is supposed to spend the summer on the farm as a rent payer to make the cash tills ring, he is anything but fond of the idea of having an intruder sleeping in the bed of his grandfather.
Physiotherapist Harry Foster dampens the wildness inside of him with an iron grip on his self-control to fight the demons of his past. He is his worst own client, though, and when he is drowning in work, an upcoming deadline for his book, loneliness and his own anxiety, his brother Rhys takes matters in his own hands and sends Harry to a remote farm as a much needed retreat for his writing career. When he arrives at the farm he is immediately intrigued by the mystery of a man whose greeting is rather hostile.
Both men discover slowly but surely an unexpected side in the other one which leads to a mutual friendship - well, rather grudgingly on Joe's part - but the attraction between them is also growing and deepening into something more and soon Harry finds his thoughts gone more and more astray when it comes to his book and Joe relies increasingly on Harry being his lifeline and anchor. But time flies, summer will soon be over and Harry has a life to go back to, so there is no chance for them anyway, right?. When an event threatens everything Joe has been working hard for and also his relationship with Harry, both men have to decide how far they would go to give the whisper in their heart a chance.
Damn, Garrett Leigh exploits all my weaknesses. First men with cats, now men with horses. Well, and cats. When I read the blurb and saw the word 'horseman' popping up - combined with the title - at first I thought this would be about a horse whisperer, just like me. Umm, I wish. Well, I'm whispering a lot, just my horse won't listen. ;-) But it was more than that. Way more. I tend to be emotionally attached to stories that involve animals and when I kept reading and learned that Joe's farm is a rescue center for animals in need, I braced myself for the heartbreak to come. Because let's face it, this author is known for going for the kill when it comes to feelings and not going easy on anyone, therefore it was sometimes pretty tough for me to read some scenes.
But it was all counterbalanced by the delicious slow burn romance and the atmospheric writing I came to love from this author. This book is not as kinky as Dream, but the sex scenes in here left nothing to be desired.
I was once again impressed by the research she did, especially on dealing with horses, except for one small niggle: no way would a rusty rider go on a three-hour-ride (bareback!) with an untrained horse, unless he is a masochist and the horse is running on batteries. Believe me, you and your horse won't be able to do more than crawl along the next day... Personal experience here and for me it was not even one hour!!!
People who know and love Heart will be thrilled to hear that Dex had a cameo here and he made me so curious that this book will definitely be my next read by this author. And since I was already dying to get Rhys's story while reading the first book, I'm even more so now. So dear Garrett Leigh, don't be surprised when you hear a scratch at your door one day and find me camping on your doorstep until I finally get it. ;-) Highly recommended!
Trigger warning: mention of domestic violence
***ARC generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!***
Reviews for Book Lovers
"Emotions are wild horses. It is not explanations that carry us forward, but our will to go on." ~Paulo Coelho~
And emotions are running high in Joe Carter. There is no denying the wildness inside of him, which got him into trouble quite a few times. A wildness, maybe part of his Roma ancestry, but definitely part of the responsibility lying on his shoulders to keep his inheritance up and running when the odds are stacked against him. Whisper Farm is a sanctuary for old, ill-kept and mistreated horses, already run-down by his beloved dead grandfather and his wayward father, a man he wants to hate, but the boy in him is still longing for his love. The farm and the animals are his lifeblood, ...
... however, dealing with the lack of much needed funds and space for the animals, family issues and prejudices becomes a daily struggle that weighs heavily on him and makes him weary to the bone, but it is not in his nature to give up. Although, when a stranger is supposed to spend the summer on the farm as a rent payer to make the cash tills ring, he is anything but fond of the idea of having an intruder sleeping in the bed of his grandfather.
Physiotherapist Harry Foster dampens the wildness inside of him with an iron grip on his self-control to fight the demons of his past. He is his worst own client, though, and when he is drowning in work, an upcoming deadline for his book, loneliness and his own anxiety, his brother Rhys takes matters in his own hands and sends Harry to a remote farm as a much needed retreat for his writing career. When he arrives at the farm he is immediately intrigued by the mystery of a man whose greeting is rather hostile.
"He's not grumpy. He's--." He's what? I couldn't find a word that quite fit Joe. Mysterious. Raw. Kind. Funny. Rude. They all fit, but none told the whole story.
Both men discover slowly but surely an unexpected side in the other one which leads to a mutual friendship - well, rather grudgingly on Joe's part - but the attraction between them is also growing and deepening into something more and soon Harry finds his thoughts gone more and more astray when it comes to his book and Joe relies increasingly on Harry being his lifeline and anchor. But time flies, summer will soon be over and Harry has a life to go back to, so there is no chance for them anyway, right?. When an event threatens everything Joe has been working hard for and also his relationship with Harry, both men have to decide how far they would go to give the whisper in their heart a chance.
His flawless skin was hypnotising--addicting, and however many times I got to lay my hands on him, it would never be enough.
Damn, Garrett Leigh exploits all my weaknesses. First men with cats, now men with horses. Well, and cats. When I read the blurb and saw the word 'horseman' popping up - combined with the title - at first I thought this would be about a horse whisperer, just like me. Umm, I wish. Well, I'm whispering a lot, just my horse won't listen. ;-) But it was more than that. Way more. I tend to be emotionally attached to stories that involve animals and when I kept reading and learned that Joe's farm is a rescue center for animals in need, I braced myself for the heartbreak to come. Because let's face it, this author is known for going for the kill when it comes to feelings and not going easy on anyone, therefore it was sometimes pretty tough for me to read some scenes.
But it was all counterbalanced by the delicious slow burn romance and the atmospheric writing I came to love from this author. This book is not as kinky as Dream, but the sex scenes in here left nothing to be desired.
I was once again impressed by the research she did, especially on dealing with horses, except for one small niggle: no way would a rusty rider go on a three-hour-ride (bareback!) with an untrained horse, unless he is a masochist and the horse is running on batteries. Believe me, you and your horse won't be able to do more than crawl along the next day... Personal experience here and for me it was not even one hour!!!
People who know and love Heart will be thrilled to hear that Dex had a cameo here and he made me so curious that this book will definitely be my next read by this author. And since I was already dying to get Rhys's story while reading the first book, I'm even more so now. So dear Garrett Leigh, don't be surprised when you hear a scratch at your door one day and find me camping on your doorstep until I finally get it. ;-) Highly recommended!
Trigger warning: mention of domestic violence
***ARC generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!***
Reviews for Book Lovers
May 14, 2018
Do you like horses? Don't miss this book!
Harry wanted a nice, quiet place to write his book and Joe wanted some additional money to help with his farm's bills. Joe had an empty room, Harry needed one and that's how they met.
Joe was running a kind of shelter for abused horses, but in reality his farm was all over the place and he was struggling to make ends meet while not able to say no to any animal in need. So while in name he ran a horse farm, in reality he also had goats, donkeys and cats. He also had a stubborn stallion, left over from when his family had tried to ran a stud farm.
His attitude toward horses and animals in general was what won me over. He was a softie and prefered to starve himself than to say no to taking in an animal in need. That trade of his character was shared amongst all members of his family and it was one of the reasons they struggled so much financially. Another reason was that while they were dedicated to the animals under their care they didn't know anything about how to get enough donations to stay afloat.
Harry was a lonely guy from the city. He knew a lot of people and his days were always full, but he only had very few friends and people he felt close to. In the country he found a family with Joe and the rest of the Carter clan. He connected with the horses and found the peace and purpose that was missing from his life.
Joe and Harry's meeting started rather hostile but that was because of Joe and his poor people's skills. Once Harry figured out that it wasn't something he did but it was just the way Joe was with everyone, they started talking more and tentativelly getting to know each other. The attraction wasn't far behind and after a few bumps they finally managed to settle happily in a relationship.
Originally, Harry went to the farm to find some quiet time to write but what he got in the end was anything but. There were unexpected events that lead to chores, injuries, slack to be picked up, search warrands, calls to rescue more animals, police, family drama, loads of food, new friends and of course Joe.
What was supposed to be a few months away from the city turned out to be the start of a new life for him. I was happy with how things turned out for those two characters. They found the perfect solution for them and one I was rooting for from the start!
About the animals, some of the horses were fully developed secondary characters with distinct personalities and routines. I loved Mani and his relationship with Joe, how they had grown up together and the connection they shared. They were best friends and it didn't matter that they didn't speak the same language, they understood each other and gravitated to one another. They took comfort from the other's presense and were happy whenever they were close.
Shadow was the pollar opposite of Mani but he played a pivotal role in the story. He was a stallion and very few people could handle him. He was dangerous and required extra care just to be arround him. I was amazed to see the changes in him as the story progressed and find out the reason behind his aggressiveness.
3.5 stars turned to 4 because of all the amazing creatures living on that farm!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
Harry wanted a nice, quiet place to write his book and Joe wanted some additional money to help with his farm's bills. Joe had an empty room, Harry needed one and that's how they met.
Joe was running a kind of shelter for abused horses, but in reality his farm was all over the place and he was struggling to make ends meet while not able to say no to any animal in need. So while in name he ran a horse farm, in reality he also had goats, donkeys and cats. He also had a stubborn stallion, left over from when his family had tried to ran a stud farm.
His attitude toward horses and animals in general was what won me over. He was a softie and prefered to starve himself than to say no to taking in an animal in need. That trade of his character was shared amongst all members of his family and it was one of the reasons they struggled so much financially. Another reason was that while they were dedicated to the animals under their care they didn't know anything about how to get enough donations to stay afloat.
Harry was a lonely guy from the city. He knew a lot of people and his days were always full, but he only had very few friends and people he felt close to. In the country he found a family with Joe and the rest of the Carter clan. He connected with the horses and found the peace and purpose that was missing from his life.
Joe and Harry's meeting started rather hostile but that was because of Joe and his poor people's skills. Once Harry figured out that it wasn't something he did but it was just the way Joe was with everyone, they started talking more and tentativelly getting to know each other. The attraction wasn't far behind and after a few bumps they finally managed to settle happily in a relationship.
Originally, Harry went to the farm to find some quiet time to write but what he got in the end was anything but. There were unexpected events that lead to chores, injuries, slack to be picked up, search warrands, calls to rescue more animals, police, family drama, loads of food, new friends and of course Joe.
What was supposed to be a few months away from the city turned out to be the start of a new life for him. I was happy with how things turned out for those two characters. They found the perfect solution for them and one I was rooting for from the start!
About the animals, some of the horses were fully developed secondary characters with distinct personalities and routines. I loved Mani and his relationship with Joe, how they had grown up together and the connection they shared. They were best friends and it didn't matter that they didn't speak the same language, they understood each other and gravitated to one another. They took comfort from the other's presense and were happy whenever they were close.
Shadow was the pollar opposite of Mani but he played a pivotal role in the story. He was a stallion and very few people could handle him. He was dangerous and required extra care just to be arround him. I was amazed to see the changes in him as the story progressed and find out the reason behind his aggressiveness.
3.5 stars turned to 4 because of all the amazing creatures living on that farm!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
May 29, 2018
~3.5~
Whispers was surprisingly light for a Garrett Leigh book, and by "light" I mean it didn't make me want to curl up and die; the story line still contained domestic violence, anger issues, anxiety disorder, eating disorder, alcoholism, violence, hurt/injury, and financial woes.
But it wasn't all doom and gloom. There were cuddles, horses, kittens, healing, simmering sexual tension, family (loved Joe's mum and sister!), and two very different men (hotheaded Joe and patient, "holistic" Harry) falling head over heels in love.
The epilogue was lovely!
I read Angelo and Dylan's story, and was thrilled to see the two of them again, but Whispers works fine as a standalone.
Whispers was surprisingly light for a Garrett Leigh book, and by "light" I mean it didn't make me want to curl up and die; the story line still contained domestic violence, anger issues, anxiety disorder, eating disorder, alcoholism, violence, hurt/injury, and financial woes.
But it wasn't all doom and gloom. There were cuddles, horses, kittens, healing, simmering sexual tension, family (loved Joe's mum and sister!), and two very different men (hotheaded Joe and patient, "holistic" Harry) falling head over heels in love.
The epilogue was lovely!
I read Angelo and Dylan's story, and was thrilled to see the two of them again, but Whispers works fine as a standalone.
May 2, 2018
Another really great read! Full review soon.
May 3, 2018
4.25 Stars!
Once again Garrett Leigh does not disappoint. While book 1 in this series was a bit of a departure from GLs norm (mostly because of the steam factor), this one was what I come to expect.
Lots of emotion, lots of feels, lots of chemistry and some steam. This one has the usual angsty undertones - both MCs are certainly complex and imperfect but never was I depressed and weighed down.
GLs such a solid, dependable author. I can always count on her to deliver!
Once again Garrett Leigh does not disappoint. While book 1 in this series was a bit of a departure from GLs norm (mostly because of the steam factor), this one was what I come to expect.
Lots of emotion, lots of feels, lots of chemistry and some steam. This one has the usual angsty undertones - both MCs are certainly complex and imperfect but never was I depressed and weighed down.
GLs such a solid, dependable author. I can always count on her to deliver!
September 26, 2018
*ugh* This was not a hit for me, and I'm seriously considering leaving a 2 star rating.
But I'll start spewing bile and then see where I end up.
First, the romance.
I did not get Harry and Joe's connection at all. Joe was an ass most of the time; bitter and rude but then Harry kisses him and all of a sudden he was not?
It was so disconnected for me. Especially because Harry would be doing drive-by-kissing and then that would be it.
I did not 'get' their connection.
Then there was the characterization, especially of Harry, but also Joe. I don't know why, but it came as a COMPLETE surprise to me when Harry started carrying around Joe. I did not read Joe like a smaller man, and even though he might not be smaller I did not read Harry like the beast, he suddenly was.
It was weird, and again: disconnected for me.
And Harry suddenly being awkward and bad with people, when he didn't read like that in the beginning had me rolling my eyes even more.
Also how did he write a smash-hit book, considering he fucking hated it and was lackluster about it at best?
The last thing that had me doing a double take and considering DNFing was also the characterization of Joe and his relationship with his father.
I am putting this in spoiler tags, because it might be spoiler-ish.
This smells of fabricated drama and I am SOOOOOO freaking confused. That part did not read true to the character at all, for me.
This was just a weird disconnected book, where things were suddenly something else than what they were alluded to.
I just had too many eyerolling and double take-moments for me to say that this was enjoyable.
But I'll start spewing bile and then see where I end up.
First, the romance.
I did not get Harry and Joe's connection at all. Joe was an ass most of the time; bitter and rude but then Harry kisses him and all of a sudden he was not?
It was so disconnected for me. Especially because Harry would be doing drive-by-kissing and then that would be it.
I did not 'get' their connection.
Then there was the characterization, especially of Harry, but also Joe. I don't know why, but it came as a COMPLETE surprise to me when Harry started carrying around Joe. I did not read Joe like a smaller man, and even though he might not be smaller I did not read Harry like the beast, he suddenly was.
It was weird, and again: disconnected for me.
And Harry suddenly being awkward and bad with people, when he didn't read like that in the beginning had me rolling my eyes even more.
Also how did he write a smash-hit book, considering he fucking hated it and was lackluster about it at best?
The last thing that had me doing a double take and considering DNFing was also the characterization of Joe and his relationship with his father.
I am putting this in spoiler tags, because it might be spoiler-ish.
This smells of fabricated drama and I am SOOOOOO freaking confused. That part did not read true to the character at all, for me.
This was just a weird disconnected book, where things were suddenly something else than what they were alluded to.
I just had too many eyerolling and double take-moments for me to say that this was enjoyable.
May 1, 2018
So what do you get if you take ...
one Harry ... (kind, calm, strong, with quite a bit of hurt in the past and oh so lonely)
(and yes this one is not as brawny as the one on the cover, but I simply don't see him like that)
one Joe ... (broody, rude, but so loyal and brave and desperate)
(Like this one because he is really cute... even if his skin is not as dark as Joe's)
some abandoned horses ...
two donkeys ...
and loads of kittens ...
on a farm in the south west of England ...
and a hotchpotch family ...
... mixed with a heavy dose of excellent writing by Garrett Leigh ...?
An absolutely fabulous romance that will make you swoon all the way. That's what you get!
Will I even mention ..
... the almost enemies to lovers theme (the sparks of it!)
... the very very slow burn (dreamy sigh)
... the copious amounts of feels (more sighing might be in order here ...)
... the heat and tenderness (just the way I like it)
... the wonderful 'Britishness' of it all ????
Anyway the outcome is ... perfection. Absolutely loved it!
(Psst - and it is on ku!)
one Harry ... (kind, calm, strong, with quite a bit of hurt in the past and oh so lonely)
(and yes this one is not as brawny as the one on the cover, but I simply don't see him like that)
one Joe ... (broody, rude, but so loyal and brave and desperate)
(Like this one because he is really cute... even if his skin is not as dark as Joe's)
some abandoned horses ...
two donkeys ...
and loads of kittens ...
on a farm in the south west of England ...
and a hotchpotch family ...
... mixed with a heavy dose of excellent writing by Garrett Leigh ...?
An absolutely fabulous romance that will make you swoon all the way. That's what you get!
Will I even mention ..
... the almost enemies to lovers theme (the sparks of it!)
... the very very slow burn (dreamy sigh)
... the copious amounts of feels (more sighing might be in order here ...)
... the heat and tenderness (just the way I like it)
... the wonderful 'Britishness' of it all ????
Anyway the outcome is ... perfection. Absolutely loved it!
(Psst - and it is on ku!)
July 9, 2018
**3.5 stars**
It seems it’s a stand-alone, but I’m not so sure about that.
Harry lives in London, is a physiotherapist (?? mmhh) sent by his agent in the South of England to concentrate on writing his book. He ends up in Whisper Farm which is actually a refuge for abandoned animals whose owner, “grumpy” Joe, struggles to keep up with the farm and being a rock for his family, despite all the dedication and hard work he puts in. Renting a room to a stranger, aka Harry, doesn’t bode well with him, but he has no real choice.
It’s a delicious slow-burn between the two of them, with Harry having a calming effect on Joe and helping him so much to care for his family and his farm, and Joe making Harry reassess his life and deal with his insecurities.
Needless to say that the grumpy Joe was my favorite. I rooted for him and I loved being in his head. I had a much harder time to figure Harry out, even though he was a nice MC. There are great secondary characters, a charming sense of place and a great HEA.
I didn’t find the “little something” that made it a great read, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. After all, it’s Garrett Leigh !
It seems it’s a stand-alone, but I’m not so sure about that.
Harry lives in London, is a physiotherapist (?? mmhh) sent by his agent in the South of England to concentrate on writing his book. He ends up in Whisper Farm which is actually a refuge for abandoned animals whose owner, “grumpy” Joe, struggles to keep up with the farm and being a rock for his family, despite all the dedication and hard work he puts in. Renting a room to a stranger, aka Harry, doesn’t bode well with him, but he has no real choice.
It’s a delicious slow-burn between the two of them, with Harry having a calming effect on Joe and helping him so much to care for his family and his farm, and Joe making Harry reassess his life and deal with his insecurities.
Needless to say that the grumpy Joe was my favorite. I rooted for him and I loved being in his head. I had a much harder time to figure Harry out, even though he was a nice MC. There are great secondary characters, a charming sense of place and a great HEA.
I didn’t find the “little something” that made it a great read, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. After all, it’s Garrett Leigh !
May 29, 2018
*3.5 stars*
This was a nice addition to the Skins series by Garrett Leigh. I enjoyed it a lot although I didn't love it as much as the first book. It's also very different than Dream.
Harry is the muscle hunk you see on the cover. HAWT! He's also a softie. Unlike Joe who has thorns all around him, gets grumpy and he's blunt to the point of being offensive...Needless to say, I LOVED Joe.
I really liked the romance development, the UST and the way the two of them came together (although I did not understand Harry's hung ups which seemed like a miscommunication at some point).
I loved the sense of family and the family dynamics here. Harry finds a home where he least expects it and by the end of the book he is definitely a part of that family and the ranch.
Whisper is not as kinky as Dream and the steam level is rather moderate. But fear not, the few sex scenes are super hot and emotional. Joe is a very pleasant surprise.
There are a few issues addressed that could pose as triggers, such as domestic violence, agoraphobia and eating disorder but they 're not overwhelming. All in all I didn't find this book particularly angsty or intense like I'm used to by Garrett Leigh so that might be the reason it's not among my favorites by the author. I also don't care about horses all that much (don't shoot!) so all the details and the storylines about the ranch and its horses tired me out a bit.
I'm definitely sticking with the series and waiting impatiently for Rhys's story. That little snippet in the end made me salivate.
Recommended for the fans of the author.
This was a nice addition to the Skins series by Garrett Leigh. I enjoyed it a lot although I didn't love it as much as the first book. It's also very different than Dream.
Harry is the muscle hunk you see on the cover. HAWT! He's also a softie. Unlike Joe who has thorns all around him, gets grumpy and he's blunt to the point of being offensive...Needless to say, I LOVED Joe.
I really liked the romance development, the UST and the way the two of them came together (although I did not understand Harry's hung ups which seemed like a miscommunication at some point).
I loved the sense of family and the family dynamics here. Harry finds a home where he least expects it and by the end of the book he is definitely a part of that family and the ranch.
Whisper is not as kinky as Dream and the steam level is rather moderate. But fear not, the few sex scenes are super hot and emotional. Joe is a very pleasant surprise.
There are a few issues addressed that could pose as triggers, such as domestic violence, agoraphobia and eating disorder but they 're not overwhelming. All in all I didn't find this book particularly angsty or intense like I'm used to by Garrett Leigh so that might be the reason it's not among my favorites by the author. I also don't care about horses all that much (don't shoot!) so all the details and the storylines about the ranch and its horses tired me out a bit.
I'm definitely sticking with the series and waiting impatiently for Rhys's story. That little snippet in the end made me salivate.
Recommended for the fans of the author.
May 29, 2018
Full review in the morning, well the later morning when it's not 2.17am!
Right, here we go. This book is pure Garrett Leigh. It's all about finding love in unexpected places, it's about overcoming the odds, it's about hope, it's about never giving in and never stopping fighting. It's about Harry and Joe.
Harry is Rhys' brother from Dream (if you've not read that yet, why not?!) and he's floundering. While on the surface he's successful with his Instagram blog, his physio and private clients, his book deal, inside he's lost and hurting.
He sees the love between his client, and now friend, Angelo and his partner Dylan - both guys are hot but he's not into threesomes - and he's envious but unsure of what exactly he's jealous of - the sex or the closeness and love the men have found.
Harry's also struggling with his own mental health. He's great at giving advice but not so hot at following it himself and he's starting to drown under the stress.
When he's given the chance to go on a sabbatical at a Cornish farm he's still not 100% with the programme but goes anyway. What he finds is something completely unexpected - Joe.
And oh boy is Joe something! Hot-headed and quick to fly off the handle, struggling to keep the farm going, not dealing with anything that isn't the day to day care of his rescue horses (and other associated menagerie) and put out by the thought of some bloke sleeping in his much loved and dead granddad's bedroom.
This is a slow, slow, burn. There's clearly an attraction but there's just so much other stuff going on in both men's heads that they really can't get a minute to breathe. Garrett amps up the tension slowly, with external pressures of money, Joe's deadbeat dad's antics, the in-built prejudice that a Roma family has to deal with, his sister Emma's agoraphobia, too many horses needing rescuing and nowhere to put them, and Harry's increasing panic that he's not going to be able to write the book about wellness and mental health when his own is tanking.
I was totally on edge, in a good way, while I was reading this story, the time just flew by and before I knew it, almost 2/3rds of the book had gone past before Harry and Joe finally get it together and let's just say, when they do, all bets are off and it's a gorgeously written scene of acceptance and emotions and just finding that space to breathe.
This romance isn't as erotic as Skins #1 was but it never suffers for it. Harry and Joe connect on so many levels that the physical is just one outward manifestation of that. That's not to say the sex between them isn't smoking hot either, because it is, but it's intimate, it's small and between just the two of them.
There's a lovely surprise guest appearance in this book from Dex, whose story is told in Heart and it was so great to see him and Seb still going strong and there's such a strong sense of family in this narrative. The secondary cast of characters fully complement the story being told and are unique and bring their own selves to life.
As with every Garrett Leigh book, there's great research, this time around the Roma/Gypsy heritage and lifestyle and it shows in the authentic feel to each character in this extended family. The cover, as always given Garrett's talents as a cover artist herself, is sublime and the strength depicted in Harry is perfectly mirrored in his actions as he finds a place for himself alongside Joe and the mixed up crazy that is Whisper Farm.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The fangirling, as will ever be the case with this author, is all my own work and I'm not a bit ashamed of it.
Right, here we go. This book is pure Garrett Leigh. It's all about finding love in unexpected places, it's about overcoming the odds, it's about hope, it's about never giving in and never stopping fighting. It's about Harry and Joe.
Harry is Rhys' brother from Dream (if you've not read that yet, why not?!) and he's floundering. While on the surface he's successful with his Instagram blog, his physio and private clients, his book deal, inside he's lost and hurting.
He sees the love between his client, and now friend, Angelo and his partner Dylan - both guys are hot but he's not into threesomes - and he's envious but unsure of what exactly he's jealous of - the sex or the closeness and love the men have found.
Harry's also struggling with his own mental health. He's great at giving advice but not so hot at following it himself and he's starting to drown under the stress.
When he's given the chance to go on a sabbatical at a Cornish farm he's still not 100% with the programme but goes anyway. What he finds is something completely unexpected - Joe.
And oh boy is Joe something! Hot-headed and quick to fly off the handle, struggling to keep the farm going, not dealing with anything that isn't the day to day care of his rescue horses (and other associated menagerie) and put out by the thought of some bloke sleeping in his much loved and dead granddad's bedroom.
This is a slow, slow, burn. There's clearly an attraction but there's just so much other stuff going on in both men's heads that they really can't get a minute to breathe. Garrett amps up the tension slowly, with external pressures of money, Joe's deadbeat dad's antics, the in-built prejudice that a Roma family has to deal with, his sister Emma's agoraphobia, too many horses needing rescuing and nowhere to put them, and Harry's increasing panic that he's not going to be able to write the book about wellness and mental health when his own is tanking.
I was totally on edge, in a good way, while I was reading this story, the time just flew by and before I knew it, almost 2/3rds of the book had gone past before Harry and Joe finally get it together and let's just say, when they do, all bets are off and it's a gorgeously written scene of acceptance and emotions and just finding that space to breathe.
This romance isn't as erotic as Skins #1 was but it never suffers for it. Harry and Joe connect on so many levels that the physical is just one outward manifestation of that. That's not to say the sex between them isn't smoking hot either, because it is, but it's intimate, it's small and between just the two of them.
There's a lovely surprise guest appearance in this book from Dex, whose story is told in Heart and it was so great to see him and Seb still going strong and there's such a strong sense of family in this narrative. The secondary cast of characters fully complement the story being told and are unique and bring their own selves to life.
As with every Garrett Leigh book, there's great research, this time around the Roma/Gypsy heritage and lifestyle and it shows in the authentic feel to each character in this extended family. The cover, as always given Garrett's talents as a cover artist herself, is sublime and the strength depicted in Harry is perfectly mirrored in his actions as he finds a place for himself alongside Joe and the mixed up crazy that is Whisper Farm.
#ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The fangirling, as will ever be the case with this author, is all my own work and I'm not a bit ashamed of it.
June 20, 2018
Because I read this second book in the Skins series immediately following the first one, I can't help but compare them a bit.
Whisper is more typical Garrett Leigh romance. She takes us back to the Cornish coast to meet two MCs with serious life issues who find each other to create happiness in spite of it all.
The steam level is on the bottom half of the scale. Overcoming difficult odds is at the top half of the scale.
What caught my attention in this story is how easy it is to assume someone has a good life when that person looks successful. One of the MCs is a talented physiotherapist who is making a great name for himself in the field. He's a big, healthy guy with a great job that he loves. ---But, does that tell the whole story?---
The other MC is involved in a bar fight, and we are given to know he has a bit of a record with the local authorities. Poor enough that he worries how he'll afford a replacement tire for his horse trailer, we form a very different picture of him. ---But, does that tell the whole story?---
I enjoyed this second book in the series and I'm looking forward to reading the next one ASAP.
Whisper is more typical Garrett Leigh romance. She takes us back to the Cornish coast to meet two MCs with serious life issues who find each other to create happiness in spite of it all.
The steam level is on the bottom half of the scale. Overcoming difficult odds is at the top half of the scale.
What caught my attention in this story is how easy it is to assume someone has a good life when that person looks successful. One of the MCs is a talented physiotherapist who is making a great name for himself in the field. He's a big, healthy guy with a great job that he loves. ---But, does that tell the whole story?---
The other MC is involved in a bar fight, and we are given to know he has a bit of a record with the local authorities. Poor enough that he worries how he'll afford a replacement tire for his horse trailer, we form a very different picture of him. ---But, does that tell the whole story?---
I enjoyed this second book in the series and I'm looking forward to reading the next one ASAP.
June 18, 2018
3.75 stars.
I love Garrett Leigh and this book is why. I love how she creates some of the most amazing characters with such a good slow burn romance.
There's nothing like a GL book! And I can't wait for more by her.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I love Garrett Leigh and this book is why. I love how she creates some of the most amazing characters with such a good slow burn romance.
There's nothing like a GL book! And I can't wait for more by her.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2018
6-23-18: Currently FREE on Amazon US (not sure about other locations).
https://www.amazon.com/Whisper-Skins-...
April 2018 Review:
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This is different from your typical Garrett Leigh drama and angstfest romance. I would say Whisper is one of the lightest romances I've read by Garrett. No, it's not all sunshine and rainbows, but it's not deep and dark and cry yourself to sleep either.
I felt the story was very simplistic and linear, with no extreme highs or lows. If you've read Garrett Leigh before, you know what I mean (she can really put you thru the wringer). Harry is a physiotherapist who needs a place free from distractions so he can work on his book. Joe is a horseman with a complicated family history who has a room for rent. When these two met, neither of them expected the sparks that simmered under the surface.
For me, the relationship between Harry and Joe seemed rushed and despite their sexual awareness of each other building and building, the actual physical evolution of their relationship seemed rushed. They are just going about their day dealing with the awareness they have, and then one night they are talking and the moment where I thought they would get together passed, and then in a seemingly random time they are necking on the couch. I didn't follow that path along with the characters. Ignoring that aspect, it was a very nice moment on the couch. :)
As I said, there are no extreme highs or lows here, but there are moments of drama and anxiety. Joe is injured and that part was certainly scary, his recovery painful to read because I can only imagine how much that truly hurt. I enjoyed seeing Harry and Joe grow closer to each other and those sweet moments were some of the best part of the book. I am a big fan of the cuddle moments - those quiet times two people share that is theirs alone and no one else's. When Joe is recovering, Harry shares his rented room with him and they cuddle - often. ;D These are the moments where their bond is strengthened and when a crisis point in the story comes to a head, I wasn't surprised at the lengths these two went to to fix it and save the other.
The relationship between Harry and Joe falls into the category of insta-love, and it did bother me because they hardly know each other, really. But overall I enjoyed this story and had fun reading it. I like seeing this lighter side to Garrett and can't wait to read more in this series.
Something I forgot to mention: one night during a horse rescue Harry is there helping Joe load the trailer with donkey's and a horse, and Harry has found kittens that had been missed during an earlier cat rescue. My heart just melted!!! I love kittens! So I will leave you with these adorable images. :D
https://www.amazon.com/Whisper-Skins-...
April 2018 Review:
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This is different from your typical Garrett Leigh drama and angstfest romance. I would say Whisper is one of the lightest romances I've read by Garrett. No, it's not all sunshine and rainbows, but it's not deep and dark and cry yourself to sleep either.
I felt the story was very simplistic and linear, with no extreme highs or lows. If you've read Garrett Leigh before, you know what I mean (she can really put you thru the wringer). Harry is a physiotherapist who needs a place free from distractions so he can work on his book. Joe is a horseman with a complicated family history who has a room for rent. When these two met, neither of them expected the sparks that simmered under the surface.
For me, the relationship between Harry and Joe seemed rushed and despite their sexual awareness of each other building and building, the actual physical evolution of their relationship seemed rushed. They are just going about their day dealing with the awareness they have, and then one night they are talking and the moment where I thought they would get together passed, and then in a seemingly random time they are necking on the couch. I didn't follow that path along with the characters. Ignoring that aspect, it was a very nice moment on the couch. :)
As I said, there are no extreme highs or lows here, but there are moments of drama and anxiety. Joe is injured and that part was certainly scary, his recovery painful to read because I can only imagine how much that truly hurt. I enjoyed seeing Harry and Joe grow closer to each other and those sweet moments were some of the best part of the book. I am a big fan of the cuddle moments - those quiet times two people share that is theirs alone and no one else's. When Joe is recovering, Harry shares his rented room with him and they cuddle - often. ;D These are the moments where their bond is strengthened and when a crisis point in the story comes to a head, I wasn't surprised at the lengths these two went to to fix it and save the other.
The relationship between Harry and Joe falls into the category of insta-love, and it did bother me because they hardly know each other, really. But overall I enjoyed this story and had fun reading it. I like seeing this lighter side to Garrett and can't wait to read more in this series.
Something I forgot to mention: one night during a horse rescue Harry is there helping Joe load the trailer with donkey's and a horse, and Harry has found kittens that had been missed during an earlier cat rescue. My heart just melted!!! I love kittens! So I will leave you with these adorable images. :D
Want to read
June 24, 2018💝💝FREE on Amazon today (6/24/2018)!💝💝
Blurb:
Lonely physiotherapist Harry Foster has the world at his feet. A full client list, a six figure Instagram following, and a publishing deal for a book he doesn’t have time to write until his agent offers him a break—a retreat to the wild south west coast.
Cornish horseman Joe Carter is lonely too. Rescuing horses and managing Whisper Farm takes up most of his days, and by night he plays chicken with the farm’s perilous bank accounts.
At his sister’s unwelcome suggestion, he rents his only bedroom to a bloke from the city, and when Harry arrives, he’s everything Joe isn’t—calm, patient, and gorgeous enough to be exactly the kind of distraction Joe doesn’t need.
Harry doesn’t have time for distractions either—even shirtless farmers riding bareback past his bedroom window—but his moody host proves impossible to ignore.
On paper, they have nothing in common, but Joe is beautiful…glorious, and when an accident puts his life in Harry’s healing hands, the whisper of true love is inevitable. If the trouble that put the farm on its knees in the first place doesn’t get in the way.
Blurb:
Lonely physiotherapist Harry Foster has the world at his feet. A full client list, a six figure Instagram following, and a publishing deal for a book he doesn’t have time to write until his agent offers him a break—a retreat to the wild south west coast.
Cornish horseman Joe Carter is lonely too. Rescuing horses and managing Whisper Farm takes up most of his days, and by night he plays chicken with the farm’s perilous bank accounts.
At his sister’s unwelcome suggestion, he rents his only bedroom to a bloke from the city, and when Harry arrives, he’s everything Joe isn’t—calm, patient, and gorgeous enough to be exactly the kind of distraction Joe doesn’t need.
Harry doesn’t have time for distractions either—even shirtless farmers riding bareback past his bedroom window—but his moody host proves impossible to ignore.
On paper, they have nothing in common, but Joe is beautiful…glorious, and when an accident puts his life in Harry’s healing hands, the whisper of true love is inevitable. If the trouble that put the farm on its knees in the first place doesn’t get in the way.
January 30, 2019
Me ha gustado, no es mi serie favorita de Garrett, pero este está muy bien para pasar una tarde agradable.
May 3, 2018
FYI -- Whisper is the second book in Garrett Leigh's "Skins" series. FYI, I did not read the first book and found this book very much a stand-alone story, although now I definitely want to read the first book!
Harry, a successful physiotherapist in London, rents out a room in a Cornish horse farm so he can complete a book he's under contract to write. He meets the entire Carter family - mother Sal and daughter Emily, and brooding nasty over-worked gorgeous Joe. They are hanging onto the farm by almost sheer will and Harry's rent will give them a little breathing room, and allow them to rescue more horses.
Everyone here has problem and fears - agoraphobia fears of leaving the sanctuary of the farm, anger issues, alcoholism, eating disorders - but I love how they aren't treated as angsty crippling issues, but rather just as works-in-progress. Emily learns that she can get beyond her fears of leaving the farm, Joe starts working on his misplaced anger and learning to forgive (or at least, set aside his anger) towards his alcoholic father Jonah, and while Harry initially seems pretty much perfect, he himself receives understanding and acceptance from the Carter family.
I really like the family dynamics here, as well as the dynamics of Harry and Joe's relationship. They have chemistry to spare, and while their relationship goes from guarded interest to insta-love in a flash, I love the level of trust and communication they share. The narrative flow of the story is really lovely, and the story immediately held my interest and grabbed me by the hand; I think I started and finished this title in the same day.
My only issues were some plot points, i.e. Jonah's fight with a local bully that spills over onto the horse sanctuary and brings out the police, and Jonah's final explanation of the situation. It all seemed a bit too convoluted, and it all resolved in a matter of a few sentences. Also, while the HEA solves everyone's issues (Harry completes his book despite having little time to write it in the midst of everything going on at the horse sanctuary) and crosses off all the problems, it seemed a bit too polished and complete, rather than a work in progress while, for me, was part of the charm of the story. But again, your results may vary here! 4 stars for Whisper and I'm off to read the first book in the series Dream.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
Harry, a successful physiotherapist in London, rents out a room in a Cornish horse farm so he can complete a book he's under contract to write. He meets the entire Carter family - mother Sal and daughter Emily, and brooding nasty over-worked gorgeous Joe. They are hanging onto the farm by almost sheer will and Harry's rent will give them a little breathing room, and allow them to rescue more horses.
Everyone here has problem and fears - agoraphobia fears of leaving the sanctuary of the farm, anger issues, alcoholism, eating disorders - but I love how they aren't treated as angsty crippling issues, but rather just as works-in-progress. Emily learns that she can get beyond her fears of leaving the farm, Joe starts working on his misplaced anger and learning to forgive (or at least, set aside his anger) towards his alcoholic father Jonah, and while Harry initially seems pretty much perfect, he himself receives understanding and acceptance from the Carter family.
I really like the family dynamics here, as well as the dynamics of Harry and Joe's relationship. They have chemistry to spare, and while their relationship goes from guarded interest to insta-love in a flash, I love the level of trust and communication they share. The narrative flow of the story is really lovely, and the story immediately held my interest and grabbed me by the hand; I think I started and finished this title in the same day.
My only issues were some plot points, i.e. Jonah's fight with a local bully that spills over onto the horse sanctuary and brings out the police, and Jonah's final explanation of the situation. It all seemed a bit too convoluted, and it all resolved in a matter of a few sentences. Also, while the HEA solves everyone's issues (Harry completes his book despite having little time to write it in the midst of everything going on at the horse sanctuary) and crosses off all the problems, it seemed a bit too polished and complete, rather than a work in progress while, for me, was part of the charm of the story. But again, your results may vary here! 4 stars for Whisper and I'm off to read the first book in the series Dream.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
July 14, 2018
Harry is a physiotherapist living in London. He has a blog too, and when he gets offered a book deal, he's struggling to juggle everything, and find time to write. So his brother (Rhys) convinces him to go to a retreat and he reluctantly agrees.
Joe has even more on his plate. Managing a farm with his family and a handful of students is tiring, not to mention expensive. They don't have the manpower, nor the place to shelter any more rescued animals (mostly horses) than they already have.
When Harry arrives at the retreat, they don't exactly see eye to eye. Joe is full with resentment, or maybe jealousy for Harry's life. Cause, you see Harry gave up the joys in his life to be able to manage the farm, and it was a great responsibility.
I found that by the time I get to the end of the book I usually forget what I wanted to say at the beginning, so I stopped a few times to write down my thoughts. I know it's unusual, but that's all I got.
My progress:
14%
I thought at first the title was referring to the relationship between man and horses, you know like the movie The Horse Whisperer with Robert Redford.
But now, I think it refers to Joe and Harry's relationship. The moment they met there was a connection between them, they knew what the other was feeling and thinking, they were in sync. Like... their souls already knew each other and were singing the same tune (Deep!) , And because of that connection it felt a bit insta-something. Not love, not even lust, but definitely attraction. And I'm not talking about physical attraction, thought there was that too, but something deeper. Like their souls were drawn to each other. But on the surface Joe disliked Harry until he got to know him better, and realized he isn't the big city boy he first appeared to be. Yes, he's a health-nut and never been on a farm in his life, but he's far from a snob city-dweller.
And okay, the farm's name is Whisper too... but my explanation is nicer! :D
60%
Everything went great, I guess we could call it slow-burn, cause beside some kisses, nothing sexual happened until this point, but when they started messing around in bed... it felt off to me. I was missing something vital, can't say exactly what, but when they were having sex, I didn't feel the same intensity as when they were just shooting longing glances; kissing; and touching each other, while having casual conversations.
Maybe it was that Joe said Harry was dominant in bed, but I didn't see it, I don't think he was. Joe however was submissive compared to his usual brash personality, and Harry attuned to him.
91% The last pages were an excerpt from Dream.
I don't usually like sex scenes cramped into the epilogue, it always seems forced. But this time I didn't mind, cause otherwise there weren't many sexy scenes, and seeing Dylan and Angelo again was great. *wink* And I just checked, Rhys will be in Book 3. :DDDD I wanted to know more about him since Dream. *shrieks*
To sum it up, I liked the chemistry between the men, and it was a great story. I would've liked a bit more background information. Boys with daddy issues could have had a lot more to tell. It didn't blew my mind, but liked it a lot. I suggest you to read Dream first, so you know who Angelo and Rhys are, but it isn't particularly necessary.
Joe has even more on his plate. Managing a farm with his family and a handful of students is tiring, not to mention expensive. They don't have the manpower, nor the place to shelter any more rescued animals (mostly horses) than they already have.
When Harry arrives at the retreat, they don't exactly see eye to eye. Joe is full with resentment, or maybe jealousy for Harry's life. Cause, you see Harry gave up the joys in his life to be able to manage the farm, and it was a great responsibility.
I found that by the time I get to the end of the book I usually forget what I wanted to say at the beginning, so I stopped a few times to write down my thoughts. I know it's unusual, but that's all I got.
My progress:
14%
I thought at first the title was referring to the relationship between man and horses, you know like the movie The Horse Whisperer with Robert Redford.
But now, I think it refers to Joe and Harry's relationship. The moment they met there was a connection between them, they knew what the other was feeling and thinking, they were in sync. Like... their souls already knew each other and were singing the same tune (Deep!) , And because of that connection it felt a bit insta-something. Not love, not even lust, but definitely attraction. And I'm not talking about physical attraction, thought there was that too, but something deeper. Like their souls were drawn to each other. But on the surface Joe disliked Harry until he got to know him better, and realized he isn't the big city boy he first appeared to be. Yes, he's a health-nut and never been on a farm in his life, but he's far from a snob city-dweller.
And okay, the farm's name is Whisper too... but my explanation is nicer! :D
60%
Everything went great, I guess we could call it slow-burn, cause beside some kisses, nothing sexual happened until this point, but when they started messing around in bed... it felt off to me. I was missing something vital, can't say exactly what, but when they were having sex, I didn't feel the same intensity as when they were just shooting longing glances; kissing; and touching each other, while having casual conversations.
Maybe it was that Joe said Harry was dominant in bed, but I didn't see it, I don't think he was. Joe however was submissive compared to his usual brash personality, and Harry attuned to him.
91% The last pages were an excerpt from Dream.
I don't usually like sex scenes cramped into the epilogue, it always seems forced. But this time I didn't mind, cause otherwise there weren't many sexy scenes, and seeing Dylan and Angelo again was great. *wink* And I just checked, Rhys will be in Book 3. :DDDD I wanted to know more about him since Dream. *shrieks*
To sum it up, I liked the chemistry between the men, and it was a great story. I would've liked a bit more background information. Boys with daddy issues could have had a lot more to tell. It didn't blew my mind, but liked it a lot. I suggest you to read Dream first, so you know who Angelo and Rhys are, but it isn't particularly necessary.
June 14, 2018
No es de mis favoritos de esta autora, pero Garrett Leigh es siempre una apuesta segura, no defrauda. Una historia de amor tierna y tranquila, que aunque tiene su conflicto, cuenta con una dosis menor de angst que su predecesor en la serie. Con uno de los protagonistas vinculado al libro primero, pero se puede leer perfectamente en solitario.
May 6, 2018
Garrett Leigh’s books not only have teeth but they bite back. And I look forward to it every time. This second book in the Skin’s series is full and fabulous but perhaps not quite as sharp as one might expect. I certainly wasn’t complaining. I love the way her stories dig deep and make me think and this was no exception. There’s a great deal of baggage to deal with and some is still banging into their shins but it felt somewhat subdued for Leigh’s trademark style. Many may not consider this ‘light’ but I would designate it light…for GL. As usual, I loved both of our main characters, Harry and Joe. Joe’s a bit of a grumpy ass but he grows on you quick enough. Once we discover the weight of his worries, it’s easy to see the strength of his shoulders and the source of his attitude. Harry is a bit complex and not as obvious but it doesn’t take long for him to drop his shields. Both men are complex and charming in their own ways but together they are a force to be reckoned with. And that…that is what I love so much about Garrett’s stories.
What's to like: I recently realized Garrett doesn’t just write books, she weaves another seam in her glorious fabric. Everything is connected and I am awestruck with her foresight. I’m not sure how to describe it as a reader….it’s as if I’m running into old friends on the streets. It’s a joyful surprise that makes me smile every time. New friends and old friends…such a delightful combination. I also adored the setting of this tale. Whisper Farms is a place I long to visit. I loved the rescue missions and pure commitment the family has to helping animals in need. Joe is a hero in my book and I’m so grateful he was finally rescued by his own lion heart. They both deserve all the love in the world. Which leads me to….
What's to love: There is a lot going on here but what it boils down to is finding your missing piece. Both Joe and Harry were incomplete….until they found one another. Harry had everything to make his life full but it was still lacking. Joe had too much and he was drowning until he accepted the fact that he could be stronger with a partner. Leaning on someone or relying on someone hasn’t proven to work in his favor in the past. Life has shit on both men but they pushed through the bull and claimed their happiness. And I felt privileged to tag along. I loved their blood family and their chosen family. I loved their animals and how they brought them together. I loved their sexy slow build and their smoking hot connection. Quite simply…I loved it. There are a few heart racing scenes that kicked things into high gear but I loved the consequence of these pivotal moments. There’s just…a lot to love at Whisper Farms.
Beware of: The baggage these boys bring to table is heavy and hard. Domestic abuse, alcoholic family members and eating disorders are just a few of the main challenges these men have faced. It’s not necessarily easy but as always, it’s worth it.
This book is for: It’s not required to read Dream first but I would encourage it. It enriches this story knowing what has happened before. And if angst is your thing, you should jump on this ride quick. But grab those reigns, you’ll want to hang on for this ride.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: I recently realized Garrett doesn’t just write books, she weaves another seam in her glorious fabric. Everything is connected and I am awestruck with her foresight. I’m not sure how to describe it as a reader….it’s as if I’m running into old friends on the streets. It’s a joyful surprise that makes me smile every time. New friends and old friends…such a delightful combination. I also adored the setting of this tale. Whisper Farms is a place I long to visit. I loved the rescue missions and pure commitment the family has to helping animals in need. Joe is a hero in my book and I’m so grateful he was finally rescued by his own lion heart. They both deserve all the love in the world. Which leads me to….
What's to love: There is a lot going on here but what it boils down to is finding your missing piece. Both Joe and Harry were incomplete….until they found one another. Harry had everything to make his life full but it was still lacking. Joe had too much and he was drowning until he accepted the fact that he could be stronger with a partner. Leaning on someone or relying on someone hasn’t proven to work in his favor in the past. Life has shit on both men but they pushed through the bull and claimed their happiness. And I felt privileged to tag along. I loved their blood family and their chosen family. I loved their animals and how they brought them together. I loved their sexy slow build and their smoking hot connection. Quite simply…I loved it. There are a few heart racing scenes that kicked things into high gear but I loved the consequence of these pivotal moments. There’s just…a lot to love at Whisper Farms.
Beware of: The baggage these boys bring to table is heavy and hard. Domestic abuse, alcoholic family members and eating disorders are just a few of the main challenges these men have faced. It’s not necessarily easy but as always, it’s worth it.
This book is for: It’s not required to read Dream first but I would encourage it. It enriches this story knowing what has happened before. And if angst is your thing, you should jump on this ride quick. But grab those reigns, you’ll want to hang on for this ride.
Book UNfunk
February 13, 2024
The first book opened with blindfolded anonymous sex in a sex club dungeon. In London. So I start book 2, without reading through blurb, expecting more of the same. And find myself on a horse farm in the middle of nowhere. I really need to start reading the blurbs.
I did like it. I loved Joe especially, the sexy horse farmer. I didn’t connect as well with Harry. He just seemed more fake, like he didn’t really fit on the farm.
My favourite part was the horses. I’m not really a horse person, but Joe’s love for them made me fall in love with them too.
I’m crossing my fingers that book 3 is a winner.
I did like it. I loved Joe especially, the sexy horse farmer. I didn’t connect as well with Harry. He just seemed more fake, like he didn’t really fit on the farm.
My favourite part was the horses. I’m not really a horse person, but Joe’s love for them made me fall in love with them too.
I’m crossing my fingers that book 3 is a winner.
May 5, 2018
I really enjoyed this one! Review to come on May 24th.
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ARC of Whisper was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
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ARC of Whisper was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
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July 20, 2019
I've absolutely adored several other books by Garrett Leigh, but I could not feel any attraction or chemistry between the main characters in this one.
January 30, 2022
3,5/4
Unlike the first book in the series and Garrett's other books, it was much lighter.
But it was still a great read with all the horses, scenery, MCs and of course side characters.
Unlike the first book in the series and Garrett's other books, it was much lighter.
But it was still a great read with all the horses, scenery, MCs and of course side characters.
April 24, 2018
I just love getting swept away by Garrett Leigh, experiencing various locations in England in vivid detail, replete with fascinating characters. In this sequel to Dream, Harry is Angelo’s physiotherapist, holistic healer and brother to Rhys, Angelo and Dylan’s friend in book one. Harry is taking time from his hectic schedule to write a book, rooming at a horse rescue farm where he encounters Joe, the beleaguered owner. Joe is stressed and unhappy trying to save horses and animals while struggling with bills and continuing problems from his absentee alcoholic father. He initially resents Harry staying with them but he’s also attracted, slowly coming to appreciate his quiet help with his sister’s anxiety and eventually on the farm.
It’s a very slow burn for Joe and Harry with a great deal of push-pull, since Harry’s only staying temporarily and the farm is Joe’s life. Both share a history of bad fathers and recognize the dark places in each other. Joe in particular calls Harry out on his issues, since Harry suffers from “physician heal thyself” syndrome, even though he’s not a doctor per se. When an unexpected injury strikes Joe, Harry can’t help stepping up to keep things going for him. It’s a subtle, quiet buildup of emotion between the two and there were times I thought I might have missed some crucial piece of dialogue somewhere, especially when they seemed to spend a lot of time avoiding each other. There are additional crises that bond them together further, also keeping the flow of the story engaging and interesting.
The descriptions of the horse rescues, their follow-up care, as well as the depictions of human/animal bonds were some of my favorite parts. I always enjoy getting perspective from alternating POV’s, atmosphere and mood emanated from the well-paced narrative and the epilogue was marvelous. A character from another prior story was present too; Dex from Heart. I haven’t read that yet but I will. I believe and hope book three will be Rhys’s story and I can’t wait to see who he’s paired with. This is a stand-alone story although I encourage reading book but you won’t go wrong picking this one up.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
It’s a very slow burn for Joe and Harry with a great deal of push-pull, since Harry’s only staying temporarily and the farm is Joe’s life. Both share a history of bad fathers and recognize the dark places in each other. Joe in particular calls Harry out on his issues, since Harry suffers from “physician heal thyself” syndrome, even though he’s not a doctor per se. When an unexpected injury strikes Joe, Harry can’t help stepping up to keep things going for him. It’s a subtle, quiet buildup of emotion between the two and there were times I thought I might have missed some crucial piece of dialogue somewhere, especially when they seemed to spend a lot of time avoiding each other. There are additional crises that bond them together further, also keeping the flow of the story engaging and interesting.
The descriptions of the horse rescues, their follow-up care, as well as the depictions of human/animal bonds were some of my favorite parts. I always enjoy getting perspective from alternating POV’s, atmosphere and mood emanated from the well-paced narrative and the epilogue was marvelous. A character from another prior story was present too; Dex from Heart. I haven’t read that yet but I will. I believe and hope book three will be Rhys’s story and I can’t wait to see who he’s paired with. This is a stand-alone story although I encourage reading book but you won’t go wrong picking this one up.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
June 20, 2018
This rating is because I just didn’t understand what the book was supposed to be achieving. I didn’t feel the love, didn’t feel any emotions and there were like 3 sexy times so I felt none of that too.
I got Joe’s aversion to people and Harry’s issues and all of that but I honestly, truly didn’t care for any of them neither did I care for the secondary characters.
It might just be my mood I’m sure, but I felt nothing when the MCs were apart and even less when they were together. As for the storyline, it was mildly interesting and at times a bit dramatic but overall, it was just okay.
So...I guess that’s that for this review.
I got Joe’s aversion to people and Harry’s issues and all of that but I honestly, truly didn’t care for any of them neither did I care for the secondary characters.
It might just be my mood I’m sure, but I felt nothing when the MCs were apart and even less when they were together. As for the storyline, it was mildly interesting and at times a bit dramatic but overall, it was just okay.
So...I guess that’s that for this review.
December 8, 2019
I'm definitely enjoying this series. Sadly between getting ready for the holidays and doing reviews that I've committed to I don't have time to do a proper review for the e-books and audio books that I'm slipping in there just because I want to...so it's a rating a quick comment before moving on to other things.
May 25, 2018
Check out our
Whisper Blog Tour
post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Sarah – ☆☆☆☆☆
What a beautiful story! Complicated characters, a wonderful sense of place, and just the right amount of angst combine for an almost perfect romance.
When a celebrity physiotherapist from London needs quiet to write a book, he decides to rent a room on a struggling family farm in Cornwall. Harry is immediately intrigued by his gorgeous, surly landlord as he finds himself quickly becoming part of life on the farm.
The characters in this story are absolutely wonderful. I loved Joe and his secretive, more than slightly dysfunctional family. Despite seriously strained relationships, the Carters are a fiercely loyal clan and I loved their complicated and intense interactions. The contrast between the rural Carters with their Romany ties and Harry with his unfathomable urban hipster ways is brilliant.
Before Harry and Joe can connect, they have to trust each other, and Harry has to start to understand the Carters and the way they live. This process is alternately comical and heartbreaking. I love the compromises Harry starts to make and I love the way Joe slowly starts to let Harry in.
As far as Garrett Leigh books go, this feels more like her wonderful Porthkennack books than some of her grittier and/or kinkier writing – even though it is marketed as a sequel to Dream. I tend to love Garrett Leigh’s writing in all its many forms but there is something special about the way she captures the South East of England and the people who live there. Here, Whisper farm comes to life perfectly and I fell fast and hard for Joe’s messy family.
Angie – ☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed book one but this one fell short for me. I thought the book started slow, and honestly kept being slow. I found myself skimming pages because there was a lot of inner monologue, when I prefer dialogue. I didn't connect with Joe at all and barely with Harry. I tried, but it just didn't happen. The longer the book went on I found myself just wishing that it was over. I needed more dialogue and more happy Joe and Harry.
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆
M/M romance
Triggers: Alcoholism, allusion to eating disorder, animal abuse.
Hmmm, this is the second book in this series and despite the first one not being a fabulous book for me, I wanted to give this one a try too. Unfortunately, this one was more ho-hum than the first for me. The story plodded along like the injured horses that are mentioned in this book.
Joe and Harry are a strange couple. Joe is struggling with his business of rescuing horses. His family is more than willing to help, but the job is tough and there is no money coming in, just going out. I'm unsure of the issues surrounding that, as it's never truly discussed. There is some history with his dad and he just can't seem to let go and it's all wrapped into his grandfather's death. However, none of that is ever really talked about.
Then you have Harry. He is somewhat of a celebrity and he needs a quiet place to write his book. He finds and rents a room at Joe's farm. When he sees the farm struggling, he pitches in to help and finds that he was missing something in his life. The attraction to Joe is almost immediate. You also get the feeling that there is something going on with Harry and his past – he alludes to having an eating disorder, but it's never truly discussed.
Overall, the relationship is slow moving and strained for a lot of the book. In all honesty, I related more to Joe's sister than either of the two main characters. This was just a meh story for me.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series, and is linked, but could be read as a standalone. That said Dream is excellent, so don't miss out!
This book brought together so many issues, and yet remained at heart, a wonderful romance between two very different men. I loved the setting of a horse rescue farm in the wilds of Cornwall, and the elements of Roma and Traveller that are woven in, but without judgement. I loved the horses, their sensitivity and their wildness, which reflected their carers' behaviours too.
Given how difficult it had been to get Harry away from his patients, and knowing that Joe could never leave the farm gave me a few moments of panic, but Ms. Leigh, as always, managed to finesse a solution which was both brilliant and inspiring.
I am looking forward to seeing where this series goes next, but certain that I will love it! Thank you, Ms. Leigh, for another great read.
Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Whisper (Skins #2) by Garrett Leigh to read and review.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Sarah – ☆☆☆☆☆
What a beautiful story! Complicated characters, a wonderful sense of place, and just the right amount of angst combine for an almost perfect romance.
When a celebrity physiotherapist from London needs quiet to write a book, he decides to rent a room on a struggling family farm in Cornwall. Harry is immediately intrigued by his gorgeous, surly landlord as he finds himself quickly becoming part of life on the farm.
The characters in this story are absolutely wonderful. I loved Joe and his secretive, more than slightly dysfunctional family. Despite seriously strained relationships, the Carters are a fiercely loyal clan and I loved their complicated and intense interactions. The contrast between the rural Carters with their Romany ties and Harry with his unfathomable urban hipster ways is brilliant.
Before Harry and Joe can connect, they have to trust each other, and Harry has to start to understand the Carters and the way they live. This process is alternately comical and heartbreaking. I love the compromises Harry starts to make and I love the way Joe slowly starts to let Harry in.
As far as Garrett Leigh books go, this feels more like her wonderful Porthkennack books than some of her grittier and/or kinkier writing – even though it is marketed as a sequel to Dream. I tend to love Garrett Leigh’s writing in all its many forms but there is something special about the way she captures the South East of England and the people who live there. Here, Whisper farm comes to life perfectly and I fell fast and hard for Joe’s messy family.
Angie – ☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed book one but this one fell short for me. I thought the book started slow, and honestly kept being slow. I found myself skimming pages because there was a lot of inner monologue, when I prefer dialogue. I didn't connect with Joe at all and barely with Harry. I tried, but it just didn't happen. The longer the book went on I found myself just wishing that it was over. I needed more dialogue and more happy Joe and Harry.
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆
M/M romance
Triggers: Alcoholism, allusion to eating disorder, animal abuse.
Hmmm, this is the second book in this series and despite the first one not being a fabulous book for me, I wanted to give this one a try too. Unfortunately, this one was more ho-hum than the first for me. The story plodded along like the injured horses that are mentioned in this book.
Joe and Harry are a strange couple. Joe is struggling with his business of rescuing horses. His family is more than willing to help, but the job is tough and there is no money coming in, just going out. I'm unsure of the issues surrounding that, as it's never truly discussed. There is some history with his dad and he just can't seem to let go and it's all wrapped into his grandfather's death. However, none of that is ever really talked about.
Then you have Harry. He is somewhat of a celebrity and he needs a quiet place to write his book. He finds and rents a room at Joe's farm. When he sees the farm struggling, he pitches in to help and finds that he was missing something in his life. The attraction to Joe is almost immediate. You also get the feeling that there is something going on with Harry and his past – he alludes to having an eating disorder, but it's never truly discussed.
Overall, the relationship is slow moving and strained for a lot of the book. In all honesty, I related more to Joe's sister than either of the two main characters. This was just a meh story for me.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series, and is linked, but could be read as a standalone. That said Dream is excellent, so don't miss out!
This book brought together so many issues, and yet remained at heart, a wonderful romance between two very different men. I loved the setting of a horse rescue farm in the wilds of Cornwall, and the elements of Roma and Traveller that are woven in, but without judgement. I loved the horses, their sensitivity and their wildness, which reflected their carers' behaviours too.
Given how difficult it had been to get Harry away from his patients, and knowing that Joe could never leave the farm gave me a few moments of panic, but Ms. Leigh, as always, managed to finesse a solution which was both brilliant and inspiring.
I am looking forward to seeing where this series goes next, but certain that I will love it! Thank you, Ms. Leigh, for another great read.
Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Whisper (Skins #2) by Garrett Leigh to read and review.
April 13, 2018
4.5 stars
When I find out that Harry will be spending the entire book away from London I'm wary. I don't usually like reading about summer romance and Harry will be spending his 10 weeks summer retreat at a farm to work on his book deal. Sexy cowboy isn't really my jam, but I find the grumpy Joe endearing. He is not what I expected. Joe is mid-twenties, relatively young to have so much responsibilities on his shoulder. Their farm is broke (I feel that the author tends to favour having down on their luck hero. Not that I'm complaining) and Joe still has to deal with his problematic father on the side.
Having Harry on the farm is not ideal and Joe didn't even try to be nice. But the rest of the people on the farm gave Harry a warm welcome. The farm family is a great supporting cast. Joe seems like a mess all the time, but he is one tough cookie. Harry looks perfect on the outside, but obviously, there are some internalized demon that one will only find out if they pay attention to his quirks and Joe definitely pay a lot of attention to Harry.
The first half of the story was a bit slow, but by halfway mark the story definitely pick up and I finish it through without putting down. There is some attraction there because obviously, our heroes are eye candy especially Harry, but nothing was pursued. The thing I like most in romance is the build-up of a friendship and the understanding. Nothing is rush here, even sex took a long time to happen and I'm glad for it.
I'm totally digging the whole love/comfort scene when Harry was injured. This is not a spoiler since it was mentioned in the blurb anyway. Add in with some drama caused by Joe's dad, everything is making me anxious. Even with Harry's impending departure is making me anxious about how are they going to settle the issue.
Alas, the author handled everything very well that shows the maturity of the characters. Joe is a wild card to me because he can be a stubborn ass, but in the end, he makes me so proud. The confessional scene was so well done, and the appearance of Angelo and Dylan also reassured us that everything is going fine with the wild pair. I'm excited about Rhys story and looking forward to seeing them all together in the same scene. Is going to be epic.
When I find out that Harry will be spending the entire book away from London I'm wary. I don't usually like reading about summer romance and Harry will be spending his 10 weeks summer retreat at a farm to work on his book deal. Sexy cowboy isn't really my jam, but I find the grumpy Joe endearing. He is not what I expected. Joe is mid-twenties, relatively young to have so much responsibilities on his shoulder. Their farm is broke (I feel that the author tends to favour having down on their luck hero. Not that I'm complaining) and Joe still has to deal with his problematic father on the side.
Having Harry on the farm is not ideal and Joe didn't even try to be nice. But the rest of the people on the farm gave Harry a warm welcome. The farm family is a great supporting cast. Joe seems like a mess all the time, but he is one tough cookie. Harry looks perfect on the outside, but obviously, there are some internalized demon that one will only find out if they pay attention to his quirks and Joe definitely pay a lot of attention to Harry.
The first half of the story was a bit slow, but by halfway mark the story definitely pick up and I finish it through without putting down. There is some attraction there because obviously, our heroes are eye candy especially Harry, but nothing was pursued. The thing I like most in romance is the build-up of a friendship and the understanding. Nothing is rush here, even sex took a long time to happen and I'm glad for it.
I'm totally digging the whole love/comfort scene when Harry was injured. This is not a spoiler since it was mentioned in the blurb anyway. Add in with some drama caused by Joe's dad, everything is making me anxious. Even with Harry's impending departure is making me anxious about how are they going to settle the issue.
Alas, the author handled everything very well that shows the maturity of the characters. Joe is a wild card to me because he can be a stubborn ass, but in the end, he makes me so proud. The confessional scene was so well done, and the appearance of Angelo and Dylan also reassured us that everything is going fine with the wild pair. I'm excited about Rhys story and looking forward to seeing them all together in the same scene. Is going to be epic.
May 1, 2018
*ARC provided by the author*
I really, really enjoyed this!
I hadn't had the best experience with the previous book, Dream, but I guess it was a matter of the premise not really going with me. This one was a whole different case, and for that, I'm deeply grateful!
Harry and Joe are great characters, honestly- and their relationship was so gentle and sweet and precious... It feels like they were needing that as much as I was while reading it. The backgrounds for each character are quite rough, and they are both obviously dealing with some serious stuff throughout most of the story, but it was rewarding to see them slowly come together and get to trust each other, to lean into each other and learn not to be alone. Just as awesome as seeing both main human characters fit with each other, was to see Joe dealing with his precious horses; and the parallelisms between him and Shadow sometimes left me in awe. I mean, it was probably something pretty simple, but I was still impressed. All in all, it was a nice little touch that added a certain appeal to the story.
One of my favorite things- aside from the strong presence of the animals, and the family's bond with them- was the family dynamics: the bonds between Joe and Sal, and Emma and Joe, as well as the way Harry fit into it all; I'm all f0or seeing loveable families come into play in my stories, I love that, and in this one in particular, it was wonderfully done.
Another factor that I really appreciated was the pace of the relationship between Harry and Joe: it felt just right. True, the attraction was there since the beginning, but I was delighted to see they took their time to get to know each other deeper before something more physical came into play, and I'm always here for that!
The only reason I'm giving this four stars instead of five is because I feel like the ending came a bit too rushed- I would have liked at least one chapter (or even just a couple more paragraphs) before the epilogue came about. Other than that, everything was pretty much wonderful and sweet and it pulled at the strings of my emotions in all the right ways. 10/10 would recommend!
I really, really enjoyed this!
I hadn't had the best experience with the previous book, Dream, but I guess it was a matter of the premise not really going with me. This one was a whole different case, and for that, I'm deeply grateful!
Harry and Joe are great characters, honestly- and their relationship was so gentle and sweet and precious... It feels like they were needing that as much as I was while reading it. The backgrounds for each character are quite rough, and they are both obviously dealing with some serious stuff throughout most of the story, but it was rewarding to see them slowly come together and get to trust each other, to lean into each other and learn not to be alone. Just as awesome as seeing both main human characters fit with each other, was to see Joe dealing with his precious horses; and the parallelisms between him and Shadow sometimes left me in awe. I mean, it was probably something pretty simple, but I was still impressed. All in all, it was a nice little touch that added a certain appeal to the story.
One of my favorite things- aside from the strong presence of the animals, and the family's bond with them- was the family dynamics: the bonds between Joe and Sal, and Emma and Joe, as well as the way Harry fit into it all; I'm all f0or seeing loveable families come into play in my stories, I love that, and in this one in particular, it was wonderfully done.
Another factor that I really appreciated was the pace of the relationship between Harry and Joe: it felt just right. True, the attraction was there since the beginning, but I was delighted to see they took their time to get to know each other deeper before something more physical came into play, and I'm always here for that!
The only reason I'm giving this four stars instead of five is because I feel like the ending came a bit too rushed- I would have liked at least one chapter (or even just a couple more paragraphs) before the epilogue came about. Other than that, everything was pretty much wonderful and sweet and it pulled at the strings of my emotions in all the right ways. 10/10 would recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews