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Love and Family #2
Quédate conmigo
Ben:
Está bueno a morir, está centrado y con su vida organizada y, en mi caso, además, está prohibidísimo.
Hace un año que me hice cargo de la custodia de mi hermano Milo. Y se me da fenomenal cuidar de él. Bueno, se me da bien. Más o menos. Vale, puede que se me dé fatal.
Mierda. Necesito centrarme. Necesito ser el mejor hermano del mundo. Y necesito vender la casa de nuestros padres.
Aunque, primero, tengo que arreglarla. Y no es que a mí se me conozca por ser el rey del bricolaje… Pero el profesor de Milo sí que lo es.
También es increíblemente guapo, fuerte y muy capaz. Así es Jack: mi polo opuesto, mi modelo a seguir, mi fantasía nocturna.
Y Jack necesita un sitio en el que quedarse una temporada.
¿Qué hay de malo en que viva en nuestra casa durante medio año? Puedo mantener las manos quietecitas. ¿No?
Jack:
Qué guapísimo es.
Pero entra en la categoría «padre de alumno» y tiene dieciséis años menos que yo.
Y esa es una línea que nunca he cruzado.
Que Dios nos asista.
~ ~ ~
Quédate conmigo es un romance chico-chico que se desarrolla a fuego lento, con mucho tonteo de por medio y en el que los protagonistas se llevan unos cuantos años. Es dulce, íntimo, acogedor y acaba en un estupendo «felices para siempre». Es el segundo libro de Amor y familia, una serie de libros ambientados en Wellington, Nueva Zelanda, y que se conciben como romances autoconclusivos e independientes.
Está bueno a morir, está centrado y con su vida organizada y, en mi caso, además, está prohibidísimo.
Hace un año que me hice cargo de la custodia de mi hermano Milo. Y se me da fenomenal cuidar de él. Bueno, se me da bien. Más o menos. Vale, puede que se me dé fatal.
Mierda. Necesito centrarme. Necesito ser el mejor hermano del mundo. Y necesito vender la casa de nuestros padres.
Aunque, primero, tengo que arreglarla. Y no es que a mí se me conozca por ser el rey del bricolaje… Pero el profesor de Milo sí que lo es.
También es increíblemente guapo, fuerte y muy capaz. Así es Jack: mi polo opuesto, mi modelo a seguir, mi fantasía nocturna.
Y Jack necesita un sitio en el que quedarse una temporada.
¿Qué hay de malo en que viva en nuestra casa durante medio año? Puedo mantener las manos quietecitas. ¿No?
Jack:
Qué guapísimo es.
Pero entra en la categoría «padre de alumno» y tiene dieciséis años menos que yo.
Y esa es una línea que nunca he cruzado.
Que Dios nos asista.
~ ~ ~
Quédate conmigo es un romance chico-chico que se desarrolla a fuego lento, con mucho tonteo de por medio y en el que los protagonistas se llevan unos cuantos años. Es dulce, íntimo, acogedor y acaba en un estupendo «felices para siempre». Es el segundo libro de Amor y familia, una serie de libros ambientados en Wellington, Nueva Zelanda, y que se conciben como romances autoconclusivos e independientes.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2019
237 people are currently reading
1652 people want to read
About the author
Anyta Sunday
109 books2,732 followersSpecialising in slow-burn romances where emotions reign, intimacy lingers, and chemistry sizzles—stories that leave you holding your breath and cheering for love, with just a splash of spice to sweeten the journey.
Check out my website:
Contact: http://www.anytasunday.com/?page_id=386
Für deutsche Leser:
http://www.anytasunday.de/
In italiano:
http://www.anytasunday.it/
Check out my website:
Contact: http://www.anytasunday.com/?page_id=386
Für deutsche Leser:
http://www.anytasunday.de/
In italiano:
http://www.anytasunday.it/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 577 reviews
August 20, 2020
This latest book by Anyta pulled me in right from the get go, as 24 y.o. Ben was raising his 11 y.o. brother, Milo, doing the best that he could, but still feeling as if he were drowning under the responsibility at such a young age.
Then Ben met Milo's 39 y.o. wood-shop teacher, Jack, who had also been flipping houses as a side gig for at least the last 8 years, while impatiently waiting for his dream villa to come up for sale.
From their very first meeting, it was amazing to feel the chemistry between Ben and Jack, and to see how Jack helped build up Ben's self-confidence that he wasn't doing as badly raising Milo as he'd thought.
A lot of the drama, and Milo's rebellion, arose from the fact that Ben couldn't bear to step foot in their family home after their parent's death, so he planned to sell it and move Milo somewhere without so many painful memories.
Then Jack agreed to move into the main house and renovate it, while the boys lived in the small cottage in back of the property, which changed everything bit by bit.
It broke my heart to see Milo sneaking into his old bedroom to sleep and feel a connection to his deceased parents, but that helped necessitate Ben going into the house and begin confronting his panic attacks. A task made easier by Jack's distracting presence.
I immediately loved both MC's and the slow burn was suuuper slow in this story, allowing a very organic development of their feelings. The first kiss didn't even happen until around 80% in, but the book never felt like it dragged.
I adored Ben's snarky, funny, smart-mouthed little brother. His pre-teen antics really made me laugh, along with Ben's rather unconventional parenting style.
Ben initial bribing and negotiating with Milo to get the kid to behave truly set my teeth on edge, but when Ben started flinging lemons off a nearby tree, OMG, that had me laughing so hard. It was pretty epic.
Fortunately, Jack's somewhat-stern, structured presence made a huge impact on Milo's behavior, and provided Ben with some much-needed support in learning how to better parent his little brother, while maintaining his sanity.
In regards to relationship obstacles, those came in the form of the school (and one nosy-ass, busy body teacher) looking down on a 39 y.o. teacher getting involved with the 24 y.o. primary caregiver of one of his students. Such a relationship wasn't explicitly forbidden, per se, but was very much frowned upon, and could cause major problems for Jack.
But the heart wanted what the heart wanted, so Jack eventually did give in to Ben's steady attempts at flirting, consequences be damned, much to his own chagrin.
This was such a sweet and fluffy story, which Anyta does so well. And Jack's "Ben is the best because" talk to Milo was kind of *everything*. Total swoon material, folks.
The overall steam level was low'ish, mainly because nothing physical happened between them until very late in the story, but I felt that the level of feels was pretty high, so I didn't feel that anything was lacking.
Also, to my great surprise, the 15 year age gap wasn't an issue for me, even though I'm generally not a fan of that trope. Like, at all.
The story was written in present tense (not my favorite), dual POV, and ends with a full-on HEA, with an epilogue from 6 years on, right as Milo had just graduated from high school.
I basically LOVED a whole lot of this story and would rate it at around 4.5 stars. : )
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
#ThanksAnyta!
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
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April 15, 2019
Perfect.Just perfect.
I'm gushing and fangirling bit time here.I think this might just be my favourite book by Anyta Sunday. Talk about bringing the feelings,I'm sure I had a dopey smile on my face the whole time I was reading this.
Story in brief:
Ben is 24 and struggling bringing up his younger brother,Milo,after their parents death.He's dead set on selling the family home but renovations are needed and who better to help than Milo's woodwork teacher....and the fact he's hot is definitely an added bonus.
There is honestly so much to love here,
-my heart melted for Ben.He's convinced he's not doing a good job with Milo-constantly second guessing himself.I absolutely LOVED the relationship between the two brothers.From their love of bird watching,and orange fanta.
-Milo is 11 full of attitude and sarcasm but,at the same time,his vulnerability is so endearing.
-age difference that worked so well here.Ben and Jack couldn't have been more perfect for other.
-the feeling of family and home is ever present.I loved the laughter and struggles that were so true to life.Bringing up children is one of the hardest and most rewarding job there is and the Author totally nailed it.
-slow burn that Anyta Sunday is known for and delivered perfectly here.There are sex scenes but I honestly wouldn't have minded if there weren't any-the connection between Jack and Ben was just so damn special...I got so teary at times ( in a good way )
-Jack's Ben is the best because speach to Milo was,well,special .I think I read it about three times at least.
I can't fault this.I loved this little family of three with a passion.Read it-you'll fall hopelessly in love with these guys.
Standalone.Highly recommended
Review copy.
I'm gushing and fangirling bit time here.I think this might just be my favourite book by Anyta Sunday. Talk about bringing the feelings,I'm sure I had a dopey smile on my face the whole time I was reading this.
Story in brief:
Ben is 24 and struggling bringing up his younger brother,Milo,after their parents death.He's dead set on selling the family home but renovations are needed and who better to help than Milo's woodwork teacher....and the fact he's hot is definitely an added bonus.
There is honestly so much to love here,
-my heart melted for Ben.He's convinced he's not doing a good job with Milo-constantly second guessing himself.I absolutely LOVED the relationship between the two brothers.From their love of bird watching,and orange fanta.
-Milo is 11 full of attitude and sarcasm but,at the same time,his vulnerability is so endearing.
-age difference that worked so well here.Ben and Jack couldn't have been more perfect for other.
-the feeling of family and home is ever present.I loved the laughter and struggles that were so true to life.Bringing up children is one of the hardest and most rewarding job there is and the Author totally nailed it.
-slow burn that Anyta Sunday is known for and delivered perfectly here.There are sex scenes but I honestly wouldn't have minded if there weren't any-the connection between Jack and Ben was just so damn special...I got so teary at times ( in a good way )
-Jack's Ben is the best because speach to Milo was,well,special .I think I read it about three times at least.
I can't fault this.I loved this little family of three with a passion.Read it-you'll fall hopelessly in love with these guys.
I look at Ben and I see a future. I see shared dinners and overshared stories. I see stupid fights and silly gestures to make up for them. I see him and Milo in the villa. A family to laugh with during the day . A partner to moan with during the night. The dream hangs between us.
Standalone.Highly recommended
Review copy.
May 19, 2019
This was amazing!!! A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!
So perfect and yet so different from what I thought it would be. I am so surprised!!
It starts out with Ben and Milo, brothers who recently lost their parents in an accident. Ben is 23 while Milo is only 11. So Ben acts as his guardian and ‘tries’ to raise his brother by himself.
However, Ben works a job he’s not happy with and that leaves him little time for his brother and Milo is a pretty difficult kid, also due to the fact that they have not yet processed losing their parents to suddenly.
Milo and Ben are also pretty similar in character. Ben was a difficult student in school and clearly not a teacher’s favorite, so how is he supposed to convey to his brother to be a good student when he himself wasn’t one either?
Parent teacher night shatters Ben pretty thoroughly, when Milo’s home room teacher doubts Ben’s competence to take care of Milo.
Feeling down and at his wit’s end, Ben runs into Milo’s technology teacher, handsome 39 year old Jack, who is the only one who has something nice to say about Milo and who encourages Ben to keep up the good work as a single parent.
Jack has a tough skin and knows how to deal with a big-mouthed student like Milo. Outside of his teaching job, Jack does remodeling jobs on rundown homes that he sells at a higher price. He’s been doing this for 8 years, slowly accumulating enough money to finally buy a villa he’s set his eyes on.
The home of his dreams.
Running into Ben and Milo outside of school leads him to their home: The house of their parents that Milo desperately wants to stay in as it is the only thing left from their parents. But Ben is so traumatized he can’t even set foot into the house and lives with Milo in the guest cottage. Ben wants to sell, but the house desperately needs work to make it sellable.
Seeing the boys’ problematic situation, Jack steps in and offers to remodel the house in exchange for free lodging, as he’s currently bunking with his ex and the guy’s new boyfriend.
Living together proves more problematic than Jack had thought. Ben is a flirt and is working pretty hard to get into Jack’s pants, but Ben is 16 years younger than Jack and acts like a mischievous kid and even though Ben is hot and Jack is not immune to the charms of the younger man, he knows he needs to keep his distance as he is Milo’s teacher. He even encourages Ben to start dating again, watching Milo on Friday nights.
So, astonishingly, you will NOT find . Jack is in fact acting like a responsible adult, no matter how flirty Ben gets and no matter how drawn he finds himself to the younger man.
Complicating things is the fact that the owner of Jack’s dream home is related to Jack’s director at school and losing her trust might result in losing his dream home forever…
This story is really unique. It perfectly shows Ben’s growth as a character and I admired Jack for thinking of ‘his boys’ as family long before there is anything going on between him and Ben. Jack is a genuinely good guy and a perfect age gap romance hero worthy of a happy ending.
The ending was mere perfection. Both Jack and Ben worked on themselves and sacrificed so much to make their ‘thing’ – their family – work. It moved me to tears.
This is certainly a top 10 favorite romance for me! It has everything I love in a story: a family, an age gap romance and a handyman (gotta love those lumberjack guys and their toolboxes).
Now I need to read book 1 too because the couple from the first book plays quite a big part in this story and they seem quite charming. But I could never have switched books midway, because this story is simply too good to put it on hold.
5 stars!!
So perfect and yet so different from what I thought it would be. I am so surprised!!
It starts out with Ben and Milo, brothers who recently lost their parents in an accident. Ben is 23 while Milo is only 11. So Ben acts as his guardian and ‘tries’ to raise his brother by himself.
However, Ben works a job he’s not happy with and that leaves him little time for his brother and Milo is a pretty difficult kid, also due to the fact that they have not yet processed losing their parents to suddenly.
Milo and Ben are also pretty similar in character. Ben was a difficult student in school and clearly not a teacher’s favorite, so how is he supposed to convey to his brother to be a good student when he himself wasn’t one either?
Parent teacher night shatters Ben pretty thoroughly, when Milo’s home room teacher doubts Ben’s competence to take care of Milo.
Feeling down and at his wit’s end, Ben runs into Milo’s technology teacher, handsome 39 year old Jack, who is the only one who has something nice to say about Milo and who encourages Ben to keep up the good work as a single parent.
Jack has a tough skin and knows how to deal with a big-mouthed student like Milo. Outside of his teaching job, Jack does remodeling jobs on rundown homes that he sells at a higher price. He’s been doing this for 8 years, slowly accumulating enough money to finally buy a villa he’s set his eyes on.
The home of his dreams.
Running into Ben and Milo outside of school leads him to their home: The house of their parents that Milo desperately wants to stay in as it is the only thing left from their parents. But Ben is so traumatized he can’t even set foot into the house and lives with Milo in the guest cottage. Ben wants to sell, but the house desperately needs work to make it sellable.
Seeing the boys’ problematic situation, Jack steps in and offers to remodel the house in exchange for free lodging, as he’s currently bunking with his ex and the guy’s new boyfriend.
Living together proves more problematic than Jack had thought. Ben is a flirt and is working pretty hard to get into Jack’s pants, but Ben is 16 years younger than Jack and acts like a mischievous kid and even though Ben is hot and Jack is not immune to the charms of the younger man, he knows he needs to keep his distance as he is Milo’s teacher. He even encourages Ben to start dating again, watching Milo on Friday nights.
So, astonishingly, you will NOT find . Jack is in fact acting like a responsible adult, no matter how flirty Ben gets and no matter how drawn he finds himself to the younger man.
Complicating things is the fact that the owner of Jack’s dream home is related to Jack’s director at school and losing her trust might result in losing his dream home forever…
This story is really unique. It perfectly shows Ben’s growth as a character and I admired Jack for thinking of ‘his boys’ as family long before there is anything going on between him and Ben. Jack is a genuinely good guy and a perfect age gap romance hero worthy of a happy ending.
The ending was mere perfection. Both Jack and Ben worked on themselves and sacrificed so much to make their ‘thing’ – their family – work. It moved me to tears.
This is certainly a top 10 favorite romance for me! It has everything I love in a story: a family, an age gap romance and a handyman (gotta love those lumberjack guys and their toolboxes).
Now I need to read book 1 too because the couple from the first book plays quite a big part in this story and they seem quite charming. But I could never have switched books midway, because this story is simply too good to put it on hold.
5 stars!!
January 17, 2021
4.5 stars
This was everything I wanted it to be. A sweet and feel-good story that puts a smile on your face.
I absolutely loved Ben and his brother Milo, they were so adorable. I loved their relationship. It was unconventional, endearing and so much fun at times. I literally laughed out loud at some of the things they did or said.
I really liked Jack in the previous book and I'm happy he got his HEA in this one. He is such a warm, kind and caring person. I loved how well he fit with Ben and Milo right from the start and how easily and naturally they clicked as a family.
His relationship with Ben was pretty slow-burn, but not in the way I expected. There was an instant attraction between them and a lot of flirting, especially on Ben's part, they just didn't act on it. Nevertheless, I think it was done just right.
********
Re-read 1/2021
This was everything I wanted it to be. A sweet and feel-good story that puts a smile on your face.
I absolutely loved Ben and his brother Milo, they were so adorable. I loved their relationship. It was unconventional, endearing and so much fun at times. I literally laughed out loud at some of the things they did or said.
I really liked Jack in the previous book and I'm happy he got his HEA in this one. He is such a warm, kind and caring person. I loved how well he fit with Ben and Milo right from the start and how easily and naturally they clicked as a family.
His relationship with Ben was pretty slow-burn, but not in the way I expected. There was an instant attraction between them and a lot of flirting, especially on Ben's part, they just didn't act on it. Nevertheless, I think it was done just right.
********
Re-read 1/2021
April 30, 2019
*4.25 stars*
Made for You is exactly why I need Anyta Sunday in my life.
Gah, this book was so adorable. I'm a total sucker for a long, slow burn, and Anyta Sunday knows how to deliver that so well.
I can take it or leave it when it comes to books involving children and lots of family drama, but Anyta Sunday really pulled it off here. Made for You managed to balance some really heavy stuff, with the loss two parents and an insane amount of responsibility for the MC, and keep the story light and fresh. It wasn't a downer-type of story, so though the plot has some angst to it, it is the kind of book that will keep you smiling.
I love, love, love an age gap, but though the age gap was pretty big here, it didn't feel like such a chasm. The two MCs felt like they meshed together so well, that their personalities combined perfectly, that the age gap felt like no big deal. They also were both responsible adults (more of less, ha), so there wasn't that "party animal vs stuffy old man" thing that many age gap romances have.
I enjoyed the whole story so much, but I think I needed just a little something more to light up that fifth star. However, this was Anyta Sunday doing what she does best, and I can't wait to read more of these kinds of stories from her. I'm loving the direction she has been taking recently!
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
Made for You is exactly why I need Anyta Sunday in my life.
Gah, this book was so adorable. I'm a total sucker for a long, slow burn, and Anyta Sunday knows how to deliver that so well.
I can take it or leave it when it comes to books involving children and lots of family drama, but Anyta Sunday really pulled it off here. Made for You managed to balance some really heavy stuff, with the loss two parents and an insane amount of responsibility for the MC, and keep the story light and fresh. It wasn't a downer-type of story, so though the plot has some angst to it, it is the kind of book that will keep you smiling.
I love, love, love an age gap, but though the age gap was pretty big here, it didn't feel like such a chasm. The two MCs felt like they meshed together so well, that their personalities combined perfectly, that the age gap felt like no big deal. They also were both responsible adults (more of less, ha), so there wasn't that "party animal vs stuffy old man" thing that many age gap romances have.
I enjoyed the whole story so much, but I think I needed just a little something more to light up that fifth star. However, this was Anyta Sunday doing what she does best, and I can't wait to read more of these kinds of stories from her. I'm loving the direction she has been taking recently!
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
July 2, 2021
Re-read: 02.07.2021
I just wanted to read some nice and sweet friends to lovers story. Nothing really happens here, but it's still an enjoyable read as it is cute and is filled with family time/love. Jack fits the McCormick family perfectly.
First read review:
Now, here's the honesty: There was too little chemistry, too little ‘didn't get to know them enough’, too much ‘weeks later’ because I felt like we missed the really get to know each other. HOWEVER, the book picked up around 60% and it was adorable from there on. The birthday dinner was a fun chapter though. Ben was.... funny to watch as he embarrassed himself. After the epilogue, I kinda want more from these two, and that's because of the last 40% of the book. I'll just pretend that the rest doesn't exist :P Overall, it has cute characters, a good balance, it was fast forward and not very heavy at all. I thought there'd be more depth to it considering the loss of the parents, but there wasn't much, but it had a nice somewhat development for the characters. It was a book worth reading (the 40% made it so).
Characters:
→ Benjamin ‘Ben’ ‘Benny’ Jeremiah McCormick (24), main character and caretaker of his brother, Milo ‘bucko’ McCormick (11).
→ Jack Pecker (39, turns 40), other main character and Milo's teacher and working on the renovation of the McCormick house.
→ Talia, Ben's best friend. Mentioned and heard, but never seen in the book.
→ Luke, co-worker to Jack, is also his ex and best friend. Sam, his boyfriend. Jeremy ‘Jer’ (14), Sam's son. Luke and Sam were the main couple in book one of this series.
→ Stephanie Ryan, Principal at Kresley. Howie, her uncle and owner of Jack's dream house/villa.
→ Mrs. Devon, teacher at Kresley school?
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (New Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series (Can Be Read As A Standalone), Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Both.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Who knows.
Rating - 3.5/3 (the last 40% was really enjoyable) stars.
I just wanted to read some nice and sweet friends to lovers story. Nothing really happens here, but it's still an enjoyable read as it is cute and is filled with family time/love. Jack fits the McCormick family perfectly.
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*The Last 40% Was Good*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
First read review:
Now, here's the honesty: There was too little chemistry, too little ‘didn't get to know them enough’, too much ‘weeks later’ because I felt like we missed the really get to know each other. HOWEVER, the book picked up around 60% and it was adorable from there on. The birthday dinner was a fun chapter though. Ben was.... funny to watch as he embarrassed himself. After the epilogue, I kinda want more from these two, and that's because of the last 40% of the book. I'll just pretend that the rest doesn't exist :P Overall, it has cute characters, a good balance, it was fast forward and not very heavy at all. I thought there'd be more depth to it considering the loss of the parents, but there wasn't much, but it had a nice somewhat development for the characters. It was a book worth reading (the 40% made it so).
Characters:
→ Benjamin ‘Ben’ ‘Benny’ Jeremiah McCormick (24), main character and caretaker of his brother, Milo ‘bucko’ McCormick (11).
→ Jack Pecker (39, turns 40), other main character and Milo's teacher and working on the renovation of the McCormick house.
→ Talia, Ben's best friend. Mentioned and heard, but never seen in the book.
→ Luke, co-worker to Jack, is also his ex and best friend. Sam, his boyfriend. Jeremy ‘Jer’ (14), Sam's son. Luke and Sam were the main couple in book one of this series.
→ Stephanie Ryan, Principal at Kresley. Howie, her uncle and owner of Jack's dream house/villa.
→ Mrs. Devon, teacher at Kresley school?
It rips through me, the words, the crumbling of his voice. I push back his hair. Tuck his bangs behind his ear only to have it fall over his face again. “If you need me to help more—”
“It’s not your problem. It’s so not your problem. But I see you, and I want it to be.” He sniffs and tries to pull away, but I keep him close. “I’m sorry. I’m meant to be funny. Meant to crack jokes and laugh, not . . .”
“You’re allowed to cry.”
“Will you stay in our lives?” His moist breath sieves through to my stomach. “Will you stay in our lives and be our friend, please? Will you stay in our lives and be our friend even if I’m such a flirt?”
This guy is breaking my heart. Fuck it. “Flirt all you like. I’ve got you.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (New Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series (Can Be Read As A Standalone), Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Both.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Who knows.
Rating - 3.5/3 (the last 40% was really enjoyable) stars.
August 15, 2022
4 Stars
The story follows 24-year-old Ben McCormick as he struggles with his new, all-encompassing responsibilities of raising his 11-year-old brother Milo, after the tragic loss of their parents one year before. It’s an overwhelming task and Ben is constantly questioning his abilities as a caregiver, which isn’t helped much with how Milo has been acting out in school while obviously dealing with his own grief. Life for the McCormick brothers is messy and unsettled, but they love each other fiercely, which means everything, they just need a little help while navigating their new reality.
Enter, 39-year-old Jack Pecker. Jack is a teacher at Milo’s school and one of the few adults in his life that doesn’t let him get away with anything while also treating him with respect. When Jack and Ben meet during a parent teacher night, a connection is made between the two men. They are attracted to one another, but they (mostly Jack) work to shut that down due to their age difference and their positions as teacher and caregiver.
When Ben asks for Jack’s help fixing up his parent’s home, Jack, who is looking for a new renovation project, jumps at the chance to help, moving into the house while he completes his restorations and subsequently putting him in close proximity with Ben and Milo on the regular.
As the months pass, Jack, Ben and Milo grow into a close-knit group, first forming bonds of friendship and support, and eventually evolving into a well-functioning unit that certainly feels like family. And before long, Jack and Ben can no longer deny just how deep their feelings run for one another, putting them in a tricky situation when it comes to Jack’s teacher position at Milo’s school. But slowly they learn that they can face any challenge that comes their way as long as they do it together.
This story filled my heart right up with all the good stuff. It was sweet and funny, but it was also full of heart and plenty of emotional depth, pulling on my heartstrings in all the right ways. I loved the slow burn between Jack and Ben, and the end result was well worth the wait! But what I loved even more than the romance between Jack and Ben was the sibling relationship between Ben and Milo. These two were a fantastic portrayal of real siblings; siblings who fight and push each other to their absolute limits, like only siblings can, but who also love each other ferociously and would literally do anything to make the other feel happy and safe. I just adored their interactions.
So, it’s safe to say this was a big hit for me and I have no doubt it will remain one of my 2019 favourites as the year goes on.
The story follows 24-year-old Ben McCormick as he struggles with his new, all-encompassing responsibilities of raising his 11-year-old brother Milo, after the tragic loss of their parents one year before. It’s an overwhelming task and Ben is constantly questioning his abilities as a caregiver, which isn’t helped much with how Milo has been acting out in school while obviously dealing with his own grief. Life for the McCormick brothers is messy and unsettled, but they love each other fiercely, which means everything, they just need a little help while navigating their new reality.
Enter, 39-year-old Jack Pecker. Jack is a teacher at Milo’s school and one of the few adults in his life that doesn’t let him get away with anything while also treating him with respect. When Jack and Ben meet during a parent teacher night, a connection is made between the two men. They are attracted to one another, but they (mostly Jack) work to shut that down due to their age difference and their positions as teacher and caregiver.
When Ben asks for Jack’s help fixing up his parent’s home, Jack, who is looking for a new renovation project, jumps at the chance to help, moving into the house while he completes his restorations and subsequently putting him in close proximity with Ben and Milo on the regular.
As the months pass, Jack, Ben and Milo grow into a close-knit group, first forming bonds of friendship and support, and eventually evolving into a well-functioning unit that certainly feels like family. And before long, Jack and Ben can no longer deny just how deep their feelings run for one another, putting them in a tricky situation when it comes to Jack’s teacher position at Milo’s school. But slowly they learn that they can face any challenge that comes their way as long as they do it together.
This story filled my heart right up with all the good stuff. It was sweet and funny, but it was also full of heart and plenty of emotional depth, pulling on my heartstrings in all the right ways. I loved the slow burn between Jack and Ben, and the end result was well worth the wait! But what I loved even more than the romance between Jack and Ben was the sibling relationship between Ben and Milo. These two were a fantastic portrayal of real siblings; siblings who fight and push each other to their absolute limits, like only siblings can, but who also love each other ferociously and would literally do anything to make the other feel happy and safe. I just adored their interactions.
So, it’s safe to say this was a big hit for me and I have no doubt it will remain one of my 2019 favourites as the year goes on.
February 1, 2025
Reread 02/2025.
Still one of my most beloved comfort reads. Can't go wrong with this one when I'm in need of a warm hug.
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Reread 10/2024
Love it so much. One of my favorite comfort reads.
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Reread 04/2024.
Still awesome.
A beautiful comfort read.
Love the slowly growing emotional connection between Ben and Jack, from simple attraction to deep love. It takes months of spending time together, most of the time spent with Ben's brother Milo as well, for Ben and Jack to even share a kiss. By then they are already sure of their connection and their feelings. They have so much chemistry, I loved it.
Slow burn at its finest.
5 stars.
Bumping this up to all time favorite.
ps this is awesome as a standalone, there's no need to force yourself through the first installment (I did not enjoy that one years ago and dnf'd it).
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Read 01/2024
4,75 stars.
This was awesome.
Anyta Sunday's books are a hit or miss for me.
I had only loved Leo loves Aries, before (5 stars), and very much hated Rock (1 star). The other novels I've read got either 2 stars or no rating. The first book in this series was a total miss for me and I dnf'd without rating at 60%, therefore my expectations were very low before starting Made For Me.
But thanks to Snjez's recommendation I gave this a chance, and I'm so happy I did!
The one thing I could criticize is the (central) tabu-aspect of the story. A plot where a teacher can't date his pupil's adult caregiver is beyond lame, farfetched and unrealistic.
I was able to overlook this, though, and subsequently got to enjoy the slowly growing feelings, attraction and relationship between Jack (teacher) and Ben (caregiver to his 11 year old brother Milo).
I adored the 3 main characters (Milo was definitely a main character for me).
Ben and Jack were special.
I loved to see how both grew, how their perspectives changed, how they slowly and deeply fell in love, without even having kissed until 78%.
The chemistry was fantastic and I was glued to the pages.
This is going to be a future comfort reread, I'm already sure of that.
Still one of my most beloved comfort reads. Can't go wrong with this one when I'm in need of a warm hug.
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Reread 10/2024
Love it so much. One of my favorite comfort reads.
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Reread 04/2024.
Still awesome.
A beautiful comfort read.
Love the slowly growing emotional connection between Ben and Jack, from simple attraction to deep love. It takes months of spending time together, most of the time spent with Ben's brother Milo as well, for Ben and Jack to even share a kiss. By then they are already sure of their connection and their feelings. They have so much chemistry, I loved it.
Slow burn at its finest.
5 stars.
Bumping this up to all time favorite.
ps this is awesome as a standalone, there's no need to force yourself through the first installment (I did not enjoy that one years ago and dnf'd it).
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Read 01/2024
4,75 stars.
This was awesome.
Anyta Sunday's books are a hit or miss for me.
I had only loved Leo loves Aries, before (5 stars), and very much hated Rock (1 star). The other novels I've read got either 2 stars or no rating. The first book in this series was a total miss for me and I dnf'd without rating at 60%, therefore my expectations were very low before starting Made For Me.
But thanks to Snjez's recommendation I gave this a chance, and I'm so happy I did!
The one thing I could criticize is the (central) tabu-aspect of the story. A plot where a teacher can't date his pupil's adult caregiver is beyond lame, farfetched and unrealistic.
I was able to overlook this, though, and subsequently got to enjoy the slowly growing feelings, attraction and relationship between Jack (teacher) and Ben (caregiver to his 11 year old brother Milo).
I adored the 3 main characters (Milo was definitely a main character for me).
Ben and Jack were special.
I loved to see how both grew, how their perspectives changed, how they slowly and deeply fell in love, without even having kissed until 78%.
The chemistry was fantastic and I was glued to the pages.
This is going to be a future comfort reread, I'm already sure of that.
May 5, 2019
*4.5 stars*
That was exactly what I needed. I have been craving a story that high on the romance lately. It’s a really feel good story that does exactly that: makes you feel better after a shitty day and leaves a huge smile on your face.
This is good old Anyta Sunday; a lot of slow burn, a lot of banter, a lot of sexual tension, stolen glances, jealousy and possessiveness. A lot of humor too! And so, SO many feels!
I won't rehash the plot. It’s exactly what the blurb says. This is a very real story and that’s its strong point. Ben is not acting like Milo’s parent. He’s acting like his brother. He screws up, he bribes instead of disciplining, he doesn’t always pay attention, he swears, he wonders what it could have been. But he tries so, so hard and he always puts Milo first. The scenes where Ben breaks down and Milo is hurtful are heartbreaking, but a thing of beauty nonetheless.
I liked the age gap in this one. Jack might bring the sense of maturity and logic in this family but he finds so much more. A family of two boys that want and need him and beg for him to love them back, when his own family gave up on him.
Not a lot of steam, but the two existing sex scenes were more than enough for me, and very detailed as well.
I loved the sense of family, the bird references, the impossibly funny scenes and those that were hilariously awkward. And I loved the epilogue seven years down the road.
The writing is spectacular but I didn’t expect any less.
If you 're a fan of the author, you really don’t want to miss this. If you 're not…you still don’t want to miss it.
That was exactly what I needed. I have been craving a story that high on the romance lately. It’s a really feel good story that does exactly that: makes you feel better after a shitty day and leaves a huge smile on your face.
This is good old Anyta Sunday; a lot of slow burn, a lot of banter, a lot of sexual tension, stolen glances, jealousy and possessiveness. A lot of humor too! And so, SO many feels!
I won't rehash the plot. It’s exactly what the blurb says. This is a very real story and that’s its strong point. Ben is not acting like Milo’s parent. He’s acting like his brother. He screws up, he bribes instead of disciplining, he doesn’t always pay attention, he swears, he wonders what it could have been. But he tries so, so hard and he always puts Milo first. The scenes where Ben breaks down and Milo is hurtful are heartbreaking, but a thing of beauty nonetheless.
I liked the age gap in this one. Jack might bring the sense of maturity and logic in this family but he finds so much more. A family of two boys that want and need him and beg for him to love them back, when his own family gave up on him.
Not a lot of steam, but the two existing sex scenes were more than enough for me, and very detailed as well.
I loved the sense of family, the bird references, the impossibly funny scenes and those that were hilariously awkward. And I loved the epilogue seven years down the road.
The writing is spectacular but I didn’t expect any less.
If you 're a fan of the author, you really don’t want to miss this. If you 're not…you still don’t want to miss it.
April 27, 2019
**** 4 Stars ****
Made for you. The title couldn't be more fitting; actually, it is just perfect.
The story is endearing, heartwarming and at times overwhelming.
Now, don't let my adjectives fool you into thinking that the story is heavy shit only, trust Anyta Sunday to do some magic, throwing a good dose of humour to balance it all perfectly.
With a VERY clever and witty banter, solidly presented through the whole story, she turned this in something truly special.
I just loved the bond between the two brothers and how Jack effortlessly becomes a part of it.
Made for You was a captivating and moving story full of tenderness and affection.
If you're looking for something with lots of feels and a pinch of humour, look no more.
Made for you. The title couldn't be more fitting; actually, it is just perfect.
The story is endearing, heartwarming and at times overwhelming.
Now, don't let my adjectives fool you into thinking that the story is heavy shit only, trust Anyta Sunday to do some magic, throwing a good dose of humour to balance it all perfectly.
With a VERY clever and witty banter, solidly presented through the whole story, she turned this in something truly special.
I just loved the bond between the two brothers and how Jack effortlessly becomes a part of it.
Made for You was a captivating and moving story full of tenderness and affection.
If you're looking for something with lots of feels and a pinch of humour, look no more.
Read
April 9, 2019
I unwittingly *do* parenting the wrong way. Every day.
This book turned out quite the reflection of that--something my darling husband pointed out. This story, for that very reason, is his favorite book of mine. (This was said with a smirk and twinkling eyes. Yeah, I kinda suck at the whole discipline thing. LOL. But that's okay. At least we're sucking together.)
Set in my hometown (Go Wellington!), this is both a romance (between Ben and Jack), and a love story (of the family kind).
Made For You (Love and Family #2)
Coming May 1st
ARCs available
https://mailchi.mp/51f8fafa6934/made-...
May 17, 2019
I'm late to the game with this one, so I'm going to say just one word: ADORABLE.
Okay, two words: RIDICULOUSLY ADORABLE.
Featuring: slow burn, friends to lovers, hot for teacher (brother's teacher, but whatever), FAMILY, banter, geeky bird puns (for starters, Jack's last name is "Pecker"), roofing disasters, a rebellious 11-year-old, parenting woes, hurt/comfort, (too much) Fanta, and a swoon-worthy HEA.
I loved Ben and Jack together, and I loved the way they cared for Milo. Ben's parenting methods were unorthodox at best, but he tried so damn hard to make a home for his brother.
I haven't read the first book in this series, but I enjoyed meeting Luke and Sam. I'm also very hopeful that there will be a third book about another hot teacher.
This might be my favorite Anyta Sunday book of all time.
FIVE big, shiny, fluffy stars all the way!
Okay, two words: RIDICULOUSLY ADORABLE.
Featuring: slow burn, friends to lovers, hot for teacher (brother's teacher, but whatever), FAMILY, banter, geeky bird puns (for starters, Jack's last name is "Pecker"), roofing disasters, a rebellious 11-year-old, parenting woes, hurt/comfort, (too much) Fanta, and a swoon-worthy HEA.
I loved Ben and Jack together, and I loved the way they cared for Milo. Ben's parenting methods were unorthodox at best, but he tried so damn hard to make a home for his brother.
I haven't read the first book in this series, but I enjoyed meeting Luke and Sam. I'm also very hopeful that there will be a third book about another hot teacher.
This might be my favorite Anyta Sunday book of all time.
FIVE big, shiny, fluffy stars all the way!
April 30, 2019
I'm a big fan of Anyta Sunday's work and one of the reasons is the fact that she always knows how to bring on the feels... I also know, that when I open one of her books, I will get the slow burn I crave and the sexual tension that goes with it.
As I said recently in another review, I am one of the few people who loves reading about kids in their books. They are usually really good at breaking the ice, lighting things up a bit and making me laugh out loud.
I absolutely loved the (brotherly) bond between Ben and Milo.
I can't imagine what it's like to lose both your parents and have the care for your sibling as well. I had so much respect for Ben.
Of course, the relationship between Ben and Jack was pretty awesome as well. And even though this book isn't very heavy on the steam, what's there is sweet and hot and lovely. The whole book is sweet and lovely.
And so once again, I got to close an Anyta Sunday book, with a big smile on my face ;)
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
February 19, 2021
Reread February 2021
Ahhh. Just what I needed! Really good for the heart and the mood. Thoroughly enjoyed this all over again! This is one of the few books where I don't mind 'the mouthy kid' in the romance story at all. And damn, Jack is sooo swoon-worthy!
If you haven't read this and need a pick-me-up ... go for it!
original review
Now this totally worked for me - 100%!
It ticks plenty of my ‘like’ boxes:
- age gap (and it is done really well!)
- a good element of humour (Ben and his brother are deliciously mouthy in the best way!)
- UST so intense and painful it is enough to fill a whole football stadium with electricity
- incredible chemistry between the MCs right from the start
- so many feels I did wipe my eyes on a couple of occasions (darn, it can hurt to behave sensibly and all adult!)
- a very relatable plot
Wow, I think this is one of my top favourites by Anyta Sunday.
Loved Ben and Jack. Loved Milo (Ben’s 11 year-old brother): I am usually a bit wary about romance that involves a lot of family (sorry 😊). Loved Jack in particular. What a stellar guy!
But the best part is undoubtedly the epic UST which runs right up to the last third of the book. You might have heard me shouting ‘Just get on with it!’ or ‘Now, PLEASE!!!’ or something along those lines in so many scenes!
Absolutely super writing!
Highly recommended!
Ahhh. Just what I needed! Really good for the heart and the mood. Thoroughly enjoyed this all over again! This is one of the few books where I don't mind 'the mouthy kid' in the romance story at all. And damn, Jack is sooo swoon-worthy!
If you haven't read this and need a pick-me-up ... go for it!
original review
Now this totally worked for me - 100%!
It ticks plenty of my ‘like’ boxes:
- age gap (and it is done really well!)
- a good element of humour (Ben and his brother are deliciously mouthy in the best way!)
- UST so intense and painful it is enough to fill a whole football stadium with electricity
- incredible chemistry between the MCs right from the start
- so many feels I did wipe my eyes on a couple of occasions (darn, it can hurt to behave sensibly and all adult!)
- a very relatable plot
Wow, I think this is one of my top favourites by Anyta Sunday.
Loved Ben and Jack. Loved Milo (Ben’s 11 year-old brother): I am usually a bit wary about romance that involves a lot of family (sorry 😊). Loved Jack in particular. What a stellar guy!
But the best part is undoubtedly the epic UST which runs right up to the last third of the book. You might have heard me shouting ‘Just get on with it!’ or ‘Now, PLEASE!!!’ or something along those lines in so many scenes!
Absolutely super writing!
Highly recommended!
May 1, 2019
When in need of being swooned by adorable characters, a slow-burn, some banter and low-angst romance : a few authors pops in my head, including Anyta Sunday. With “Made For You”, she doesn’t disappoint. And in this one, she added tropes I’m all for : age-gap and some family dynamics with a kid.
The blurb says it all : it’s about Ben (24 yo), his brother Milo (11 yo) and Jack (39 yo), Milo’s woodwork teacher.
There’s a lot I enjoyed in this story.
I laughed at Milo’s antics, at Ben’s love for Fanta (really not for me, LOL), at Ben’s resort to pocket-money bribes and at Ben’s not-subtle-for-a-second flirting.
I melted with Ben’s insecurities about being a role model for his little brother, with “Ben is the best” speech Jack came up with, with the brotherly bound between Ben and Milo and with Jack’s tenderness and care for Ben.
And I was deeply satisfied with the epilogue, proof that Ben and Jack were made for each other.
An adorable, fun and refreshing read : nicely done, Anyta Sunday !!!
ARC of “Made For You” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The blurb says it all : it’s about Ben (24 yo), his brother Milo (11 yo) and Jack (39 yo), Milo’s woodwork teacher.
There’s a lot I enjoyed in this story.
I laughed at Milo’s antics, at Ben’s love for Fanta (really not for me, LOL), at Ben’s resort to pocket-money bribes and at Ben’s not-subtle-for-a-second flirting.
I melted with Ben’s insecurities about being a role model for his little brother, with “Ben is the best” speech Jack came up with, with the brotherly bound between Ben and Milo and with Jack’s tenderness and care for Ben.
And I was deeply satisfied with the epilogue, proof that Ben and Jack were made for each other.
An adorable, fun and refreshing read : nicely done, Anyta Sunday !!!
ARC of “Made For You” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2024
Ultimate slow burn and I enjoyed every single minute.
I love the single dad trope, even more when it's an older sibling in the parental role.
Jack and Ben were so endearing and Milo felt believable as a grieving teenager. Loved the family dynamic to the story.
My only gripe is we don't get all that much of their relationship after they finally acknowledge they're in a relationship! I wanted so much more of them.
I love the single dad trope, even more when it's an older sibling in the parental role.
Jack and Ben were so endearing and Milo felt believable as a grieving teenager. Loved the family dynamic to the story.
My only gripe is we don't get all that much of their relationship after they finally acknowledge they're in a relationship! I wanted so much more of them.
May 21, 2020
Re-read May 2020
Perfect comfort read.
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4.25 stars
Well now, this was good!
I wasn’t expecting all that much since I couldn’t finish the first book because I was so bored, but this really hit all my buttons.
Jack is a 39 year old woodshop teacher, who likes to renovate houses in his free time. He’s living with his ex and his new boyfriend right now, and even though they are his best friends, he really needs another place to live.
When he meets 24 year old Ben, he is a bit concerned about the young man. He is the caregiver of 11 year old Milo, who is in Jack’s class. But Milo isn’t doing so great and the other teachers blame it on Ben.
Ben is doing his best to raise his brother Milo since their parents died a year ago, but he is not doing such a good job. When he attends a parent teacher meeting, he is told in no uncertain terms that Milo is not doing well, and that Ben is a bad caregiver. Ben is doing the best he can, but raising a kid is not easy.
When he decides to sell his parents’ house, he gets told it needs a good renovation before selling. So Ben thinks it’s a good excuse to ask Milo’s hot woodshop teacher to help them with that.
Jack agrees to do the renovations, if he could live in the house rent free. Since Ben and Milo live in the guest cottage, that’s no issue. Ben hasn’t been able to set foot in the house since his parents died, but he knows he needs to have it renovated before he can sell.
Jack knows it’s not smart to be so close to someone he is attracted to and can’t have, but he’s looking forward to spending time with Ben and Milo anyway. And they need a lot of help, not just with the house. When Jack sees how Ben bribes Milo into doing simple stuff like going to bed on time or brushing his teeth, Jack is stunned. Ben needs to learn to set some rules for Milo, not bribe him into taking a shower.
Ben and Jack both acknowledge they are attracted to each other, but because Ben is the caregiver of one of Jack’s students, Jack and Ben can’t give into their growing attraction…..
This book is just filled with all the family feels. Especially because Ben was struggling so much, but never once gave up, and just tried harder to do the right things for Milo.
Ben was such a wonderful person. He was sassy, had no filter, was really determined to take good care of his brother, but was also hurting so much (so much hurt/comfort in this, yay!). I just wanted to squeeze him tight and never let go. But he was also super funny.
“What about conversation starters?”
“Dude, you’re being weird,” Milo says. Cool air washes over us as he cracks open the door. ”Just come inside. If you get stuck, gloat about your awesome brother. Or chat soccer stuff. Ohh, say how you think I dribble the ball like a pro. Because I do, right Jack?”
I roll my eyes and leap out of the truck. Milo and I cushion Ben at the front door. Luke opens and welcomes us into the entrance. Ben’s grip seems to double on the cake carrier when Luke smiles at him.
“I brought the carrot,” Ben blurts, and gestures toward Milo. “And he dribbles. A lot. It’s impressive.”
Luke looks at him confused. “That’s okay, we have napkins.”
I was glad Ben and Milo had Jack. Jack was the stabilizing factor in their lives and they so needed him.
Now this had the slowest burns of slow burns, and I do have to admit that I would have been happier if they’d come together just a bit sooner. But since they were already kind of in a relationship before the first kiss even happened, I was okay with it. Not happy, but I wasn’t too upset about it.
Now I do have one thing that bothered me. I am in no way an expert on children, but I do have 3 boys myself. And Milo did not act like an 11 year old. More like 13 or 14. And therefore I kept picturing him like that. 11 is still so young, and it didn’t fit with the way Milo acted most of the time.
But besides that this was a great book. One I’ll be sure to be re-reading soon.
Perfect comfort read.
----------------------
4.25 stars
Well now, this was good!
I wasn’t expecting all that much since I couldn’t finish the first book because I was so bored, but this really hit all my buttons.
Jack is a 39 year old woodshop teacher, who likes to renovate houses in his free time. He’s living with his ex and his new boyfriend right now, and even though they are his best friends, he really needs another place to live.
When he meets 24 year old Ben, he is a bit concerned about the young man. He is the caregiver of 11 year old Milo, who is in Jack’s class. But Milo isn’t doing so great and the other teachers blame it on Ben.
Ben is doing his best to raise his brother Milo since their parents died a year ago, but he is not doing such a good job. When he attends a parent teacher meeting, he is told in no uncertain terms that Milo is not doing well, and that Ben is a bad caregiver. Ben is doing the best he can, but raising a kid is not easy.
When he decides to sell his parents’ house, he gets told it needs a good renovation before selling. So Ben thinks it’s a good excuse to ask Milo’s hot woodshop teacher to help them with that.
Jack agrees to do the renovations, if he could live in the house rent free. Since Ben and Milo live in the guest cottage, that’s no issue. Ben hasn’t been able to set foot in the house since his parents died, but he knows he needs to have it renovated before he can sell.
Jack knows it’s not smart to be so close to someone he is attracted to and can’t have, but he’s looking forward to spending time with Ben and Milo anyway. And they need a lot of help, not just with the house. When Jack sees how Ben bribes Milo into doing simple stuff like going to bed on time or brushing his teeth, Jack is stunned. Ben needs to learn to set some rules for Milo, not bribe him into taking a shower.
Ben and Jack both acknowledge they are attracted to each other, but because Ben is the caregiver of one of Jack’s students, Jack and Ben can’t give into their growing attraction…..
This book is just filled with all the family feels. Especially because Ben was struggling so much, but never once gave up, and just tried harder to do the right things for Milo.
Ben was such a wonderful person. He was sassy, had no filter, was really determined to take good care of his brother, but was also hurting so much (so much hurt/comfort in this, yay!). I just wanted to squeeze him tight and never let go. But he was also super funny.
“What about conversation starters?”
“Dude, you’re being weird,” Milo says. Cool air washes over us as he cracks open the door. ”Just come inside. If you get stuck, gloat about your awesome brother. Or chat soccer stuff. Ohh, say how you think I dribble the ball like a pro. Because I do, right Jack?”
I roll my eyes and leap out of the truck. Milo and I cushion Ben at the front door. Luke opens and welcomes us into the entrance. Ben’s grip seems to double on the cake carrier when Luke smiles at him.
“I brought the carrot,” Ben blurts, and gestures toward Milo. “And he dribbles. A lot. It’s impressive.”
Luke looks at him confused. “That’s okay, we have napkins.”
I was glad Ben and Milo had Jack. Jack was the stabilizing factor in their lives and they so needed him.
Now this had the slowest burns of slow burns, and I do have to admit that I would have been happier if they’d come together just a bit sooner. But since they were already kind of in a relationship before the first kiss even happened, I was okay with it. Not happy, but I wasn’t too upset about it.
Now I do have one thing that bothered me. I am in no way an expert on children, but I do have 3 boys myself. And Milo did not act like an 11 year old. More like 13 or 14. And therefore I kept picturing him like that. 11 is still so young, and it didn’t fit with the way Milo acted most of the time.
But besides that this was a great book. One I’ll be sure to be re-reading soon.
June 19, 2020
Reread June 2020: Still gives me the warm and fuzzies.
Original review
WANTED:
A slow burn contemporary romance with a guaranteed HEA that doesn't overburden the reader with romantic tropes such as the inevitable break up, misunderstandings, overbearing in-laws, conniving exes or whatever other cliche romance writers get so wound up in.
Must have MCs worth rooting for, great chemistry, even greater banter and great sex- when it eventually happens.
The novel must be feel-good, well written such that it warms the cockles of your heart, has something to care about with regards to conflicts characters face and doesn't underestimate the intelligence of the reader with unnecessary exposition.
ANSWER TO AD:
This book.
Original review
WANTED:
A slow burn contemporary romance with a guaranteed HEA that doesn't overburden the reader with romantic tropes such as the inevitable break up, misunderstandings, overbearing in-laws, conniving exes or whatever other cliche romance writers get so wound up in.
Must have MCs worth rooting for, great chemistry, even greater banter and great sex- when it eventually happens.
The novel must be feel-good, well written such that it warms the cockles of your heart, has something to care about with regards to conflicts characters face and doesn't underestimate the intelligence of the reader with unnecessary exposition.
ANSWER TO AD:
This book.
translated
June 12, 2020Anyta turns a sad and hard premise into a lovely, sweet, and funny story where you breath tenderness and love in every nook. She converts —not one, but two— tough backgrounds into a common happy (or livable) path where, again, your found family and friendship plays a huge rol.
And hey, she does that among Harry Potter jokes, a lost but huggable 11 year old (funny and rebel, Milo has it all) and the slowest of the slow burns. Birds, New Zealand and sarcasm are the heart and soul of this novel and I loved it.
What to expect:
Well... Anyta, as she usually does, writes about family —the chosen and the biological one— and this is a tender and lovely family portrait entwining love, dreams, sacrifices and everyday decisions as well as life choices... it’s the huge meaning with a light perspective... or something with more sense than that; but it’s a great story made up of little things, and big things lighten up with meaning... or, again, something like that.
Made For You is something kinda... pure and a highly recommended reading. Go for it! It’ll be out on May 1st.
*Beta copy*
👉🏻
And hey, she does that among Harry Potter jokes, a lost but huggable 11 year old (funny and rebel, Milo has it all) and the slowest of the slow burns. Birds, New Zealand and sarcasm are the heart and soul of this novel and I loved it.
What to expect:
Well... Anyta, as she usually does, writes about family —the chosen and the biological one— and this is a tender and lovely family portrait entwining love, dreams, sacrifices and everyday decisions as well as life choices... it’s the huge meaning with a light perspective... or something with more sense than that; but it’s a great story made up of little things, and big things lighten up with meaning... or, again, something like that.
Made For You is something kinda... pure and a highly recommended reading. Go for it! It’ll be out on May 1st.
*Beta copy*
👉🏻
April 28, 2019
Well, that was .... fabulous! Truly. I'm sat here trying to come up with something that will sum up just how much I loved this book.
Slow burn reads can go either way for me, I either totally love it or end up ditching the book. I can safely say Made For You was delicious. I loved every word and not once was I tempted to skim ahead, skip forward for sneak peeks (you know you do it too ha!). The author played this to perfection. The build from acquaintances to friends to lovers was so real without any ridiculous angsty drama.
Loved the characters, loved the writing, loved the story .... just floved the whole damn thing. Now I'm kicking myself I didn't read Taboo For You first. Although this is a standalone in the series, this anal mama needs to read things in order(ish). Guess what's queued up next on my Kindle.
Some book funk stats.... 2018 I had 32 books on my favourites shelf, this year .... 2. Two! So I'm off to make it 3 after finishing this book. I can safely say my book funk is in my rear view
Huge thanks to Netgally and the author for this arc.
Slow burn reads can go either way for me, I either totally love it or end up ditching the book. I can safely say Made For You was delicious. I loved every word and not once was I tempted to skim ahead, skip forward for sneak peeks (you know you do it too ha!). The author played this to perfection. The build from acquaintances to friends to lovers was so real without any ridiculous angsty drama.
Loved the characters, loved the writing, loved the story .... just floved the whole damn thing. Now I'm kicking myself I didn't read Taboo For You first. Although this is a standalone in the series, this anal mama needs to read things in order(ish). Guess what's queued up next on my Kindle.
Some book funk stats.... 2018 I had 32 books on my favourites shelf, this year .... 2. Two! So I'm off to make it 3 after finishing this book. I can safely say my book funk is in my rear view
Huge thanks to Netgally and the author for this arc.
April 16, 2019
That might just be my favourite Anyta Sunday romance so far.
It's a perfect journey from friends to lovers with her usual brand of slow burn low angst and with the hallmark light touches of humour which make her books such an enjoyable read.
I liked Jack when he appeared in Taboo For You and my feelings were amplified a thousandfold in this one as he was the perfect person to fit into Ben and Milo's lives and bring them unconditional support and love.
Ben and Milo are fabulous brothers, there's such love between them, even as they deal with the pain of losing their parents, and I really liked how Anyta made this romance about them all as a unit, not just Ben and Jack.
Everything about this worked for me, I wouldn't even have cared if we'd never got any on page sexy times but we did and it was worth the long, long wait 😉
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
It's a perfect journey from friends to lovers with her usual brand of slow burn low angst and with the hallmark light touches of humour which make her books such an enjoyable read.
I liked Jack when he appeared in Taboo For You and my feelings were amplified a thousandfold in this one as he was the perfect person to fit into Ben and Milo's lives and bring them unconditional support and love.
Ben and Milo are fabulous brothers, there's such love between them, even as they deal with the pain of losing their parents, and I really liked how Anyta made this romance about them all as a unit, not just Ben and Jack.
Everything about this worked for me, I wouldn't even have cared if we'd never got any on page sexy times but we did and it was worth the long, long wait 😉
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
May 5, 2019
*4.5 stars*
Before you pick up this book prepare yourselves for a serious slow burn story! It's awesome!
Ben is twenty-four years old and he became the sole carer for his teenage brother, Milo, after their parents got in a fatal accident. He's doing the best he can to stand by his brother, raise him in the best way possible and provide him with everything he needs, but Ben is struggling himself and he needs guidance, support and recognition like nothing else.
Jack is thirty-nine years old, a teacher in Milo's school and a house flipper. He has his eye on the perfect house to turn into his home for close to a dacade and he's waiting for the owner to be ready to sell it. In the meantime he needs a place to stay as he's already sold the last house he renovated to his ex.
Jack and Ben meet under unfortunate - for Ben - circumstances on the afternoon of a parent-teacher meeting in Milo's school and Jack ends up giving Ben a ride home. It's not immediate but eventually Ben gives Jack the job of renovating his parent's house so he can sell it in a higher price. Milo though is against the selling and is trying his best to change his brother's decision.
Slowly and over the months the three of them are bonding, spending more and more time together and in a way they're becoming a family without them realising it. Jack becomes a firm presence in the brothers' lives, he's there to support Ben in everyday life and he's there to set boundaries for Milo. Ben starts relaxing as he finally has someone to depend on and he can take a break from his responsibilities from time to time. And Milo is getting more mature, pays better attention at school and gains a better atitude. At the same time Ben and Milo become the family that Jack is craving for, they become is centering point.
Everything is perfect if not for the attraction simmering between Ben and Jack. They are fighting though as they know that nothing can happen between them, not because of the age difference, but because of Jack's position as Milo's teacher and of Ben's vulnerability after loosing his parents, still grieving for them and trying to adjust to the new direction his life took.
The story is very funny, with Milo and Ben's banter taking the prize, but it's also emotional as we see the brothers dealing with their grief. All three characters were likeable and well-developed. The couple from the first book made some guest appearances but there were also quite a few new side characters. The book can be read as a standalone so don't worry if you haven't read Taboo For You.
I'm always enjoying Anyta Sunday's works and this one was no different. I love me some slow burn!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
Before you pick up this book prepare yourselves for a serious slow burn story! It's awesome!
Ben is twenty-four years old and he became the sole carer for his teenage brother, Milo, after their parents got in a fatal accident. He's doing the best he can to stand by his brother, raise him in the best way possible and provide him with everything he needs, but Ben is struggling himself and he needs guidance, support and recognition like nothing else.
Jack is thirty-nine years old, a teacher in Milo's school and a house flipper. He has his eye on the perfect house to turn into his home for close to a dacade and he's waiting for the owner to be ready to sell it. In the meantime he needs a place to stay as he's already sold the last house he renovated to his ex.
Jack and Ben meet under unfortunate - for Ben - circumstances on the afternoon of a parent-teacher meeting in Milo's school and Jack ends up giving Ben a ride home. It's not immediate but eventually Ben gives Jack the job of renovating his parent's house so he can sell it in a higher price. Milo though is against the selling and is trying his best to change his brother's decision.
Slowly and over the months the three of them are bonding, spending more and more time together and in a way they're becoming a family without them realising it. Jack becomes a firm presence in the brothers' lives, he's there to support Ben in everyday life and he's there to set boundaries for Milo. Ben starts relaxing as he finally has someone to depend on and he can take a break from his responsibilities from time to time. And Milo is getting more mature, pays better attention at school and gains a better atitude. At the same time Ben and Milo become the family that Jack is craving for, they become is centering point.
Everything is perfect if not for the attraction simmering between Ben and Jack. They are fighting though as they know that nothing can happen between them, not because of the age difference, but because of Jack's position as Milo's teacher and of Ben's vulnerability after loosing his parents, still grieving for them and trying to adjust to the new direction his life took.
The story is very funny, with Milo and Ben's banter taking the prize, but it's also emotional as we see the brothers dealing with their grief. All three characters were likeable and well-developed. The couple from the first book made some guest appearances but there were also quite a few new side characters. The book can be read as a standalone so don't worry if you haven't read Taboo For You.
I'm always enjoying Anyta Sunday's works and this one was no different. I love me some slow burn!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
June 8, 2025
I almost forgot how much I love Anyta Sunday and her endlessly endearing characters.
Her books just feel like a warm hug to me 🥹
I’ve read this one before and remember loving it and I’m so glad my reread held up. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with two MCs that were more made for each other than Jack and Ben.
But while I absolutely loved the romance in this and all the ✨feelings✨ it gave me, what made this story stand out to me most of all, was the love and adoration between the brothers. I loved Milo and Ben and how they slowly found their way back into life after a horrid tragedy.
I loved their snark and banter and how every interaction between them, even the fights and frustrations, just showed how deeply they love and care for each other 🥹
Jack with his calmness, gentleness and also firmness was such a good addition to those two chaos boys and I loved how they all fit together. How Jack offered comfort, care and protection without being overbearing and his ’Ben is the best’ speech gets me every time, goddammit. 😭
Such a lovely, heartfelt story and a comfort read in the truest sense 🥰
Her books just feel like a warm hug to me 🥹
I’ve read this one before and remember loving it and I’m so glad my reread held up. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with two MCs that were more made for each other than Jack and Ben.
But while I absolutely loved the romance in this and all the ✨feelings✨ it gave me, what made this story stand out to me most of all, was the love and adoration between the brothers. I loved Milo and Ben and how they slowly found their way back into life after a horrid tragedy.
I loved their snark and banter and how every interaction between them, even the fights and frustrations, just showed how deeply they love and care for each other 🥹
Jack with his calmness, gentleness and also firmness was such a good addition to those two chaos boys and I loved how they all fit together. How Jack offered comfort, care and protection without being overbearing and his ’Ben is the best’ speech gets me every time, goddammit. 😭
Such a lovely, heartfelt story and a comfort read in the truest sense 🥰
May 7, 2019
I adored this book. I think it's my new number one from Anyta Sunday, which is saying a lot. It's slow burn romance , may-december, with hurt-comfort elements. Those are my favorite things in a romance.
We have two brothers -- Ben and Milo. Ben is trying to raise his little brother Milo after their parents are killed, but he's not quite making it. Between emotional issues, trying to work enough to pay the bills, and Milo acting out, Ben is drowning.
Enter Jack, one of Milo's teachers, and a guy who fixes up houses to flip in his spare time. When he sees the difficulties the brothers are in, he offers to help them fix up the family home for sale. Ben is much younger than Jack, but he's immediately attracted to him. Jack, though, tries to keep Ben strictly in the friend-zone because of the delicate situation, all while falling for the Ben-Milo-and Me family dynamic.
So well-written and excellent all around. I highly recommend!
We have two brothers -- Ben and Milo. Ben is trying to raise his little brother Milo after their parents are killed, but he's not quite making it. Between emotional issues, trying to work enough to pay the bills, and Milo acting out, Ben is drowning.
Enter Jack, one of Milo's teachers, and a guy who fixes up houses to flip in his spare time. When he sees the difficulties the brothers are in, he offers to help them fix up the family home for sale. Ben is much younger than Jack, but he's immediately attracted to him. Jack, though, tries to keep Ben strictly in the friend-zone because of the delicate situation, all while falling for the Ben-Milo-and Me family dynamic.
So well-written and excellent all around. I highly recommend!
April 18, 2019
This book is simply beautiful.
Ben is twenty-four and now the sole caregiver for his brother Milo. After the tragic death of both their parents last year they’re doing the best they can.
Ben is amazing, he’s trying his best to raise Milo. Afraid at every turn that he’s failing. At the same time he’s trying to balance a job he doesn’t like. All the responsibilities that come from effectively being a parent. And his own grief and loss.
Milo is fabulous. I loved his humour and well...everything really.
Jack is Milo’s woodwork teacher. He’s hot, kind and desperately wants his own family.
What we have is a slow burn beautiful story you can get lost in. I loved all these guys and the way they just fit.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley.
August 23, 2019
This guy. How did I ever not have him in my life?
This was my first Anyta Sunday read, and I immediately can recognize why her work is so well-loved, because this was an absolutely precious slow-burn and I loved these characters to no end. Ben is such a soft little sweetheart, Jack is so wholesome and caring, and Milo — bless his little reckless heart, this kid deserves nothing but good days ahead of him.
I've never read a romance story that featured a kid this heavily, but Ben's little brother Milo is definitely front-and-center in the whole tale, and I enjoyed that a lot. He offers a little bit of drama and tension, but mostly, he allows for a syrupy sweet family bond forming between the three of them. As a parent, nothing meant more to me in the entire story than when Jack finally accepts how much he wants to play a role in Milo's upbringing and to be there for the kid, no matter what.
There's a lot of angst in this story and it's a really healthy, pure depiction of an age gap romance (Ben's 24 and Jack's 39), so if you're a fan of either of those elements, this is definitely going to be the book for you. This was also probably the least steamy m/m romance I've ever read: it's definitely there in the end and there are a lot of jokes made throughout the whole thing, but if you like your slow burns to truly feel slow, this one's for you.
Finally, I loved how real and authentic these characters felt! They bicker, they argue, they joke, they make up stupid nicknames for each other and play board games and go on legitimate family outings. It's not all drama and tension; there's a lot of domestic scenery going on that's so fun and soothing. This was just a really solid, comforting read and I can't wait to pick up another Anyta Sunday title.
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
January 14, 2020
4 Sweet Stars!! 😍🤩 This was my first book by Anyta Sunday, but it won't be my last😁💞. I loved the family oriented theme, the witty banter, lovable and not over-the-top characters, lots of slow-burn and a wonderful HEA and epilogue.
Ben and Milo, brothers who have experienced a huge loss are trying to live the best life they can. However, despite Ben's cheerful facade and Milo's tough exterior, they are struggling to hold it together. Milo's school life isn't going all that well, and Ben is constantly having self-doubts regarding how best he can parent Milo (in the absence of his parents) and is frequently getting overwhelmed. At this critical juncture, Jack Pecker enters their life as Milo's wood-work teacher (who also renovates homes as a side business). Ben asks him to renovate their family home in return for rent-free tenancy while Jack works on their house.
They share an immediate attraction,💕 but since a teacher-parent relationship would cause issues for Milo in school, they decide to keep things platonic. They almost slip a couple of times, but somehow manage to keep things friendly through all the closeness of co-habitation❤️. Nevertheless, Ben starts to fall for Jack and Jack starts seeing Ben and Milo as his missing family.. something he has yearned for ever since he was estranged from his own family.💔 But can they build a relationship out of mutual attraction? What will be the reaction of Jack's friends and other teachers in school? How will Milo react when he finds out?
The slow-burn between Jack and Ben is amazing, but what is ever more amazing is how they all slowly start to form a familial bond👨❤️👨. Milo is a great supporting character and the rapport the two brothers share through thick and thin is great to see. This was a perfect, low-angst, sweet, family oriented M/M romance. 💝👌Highly recommended!! 👍
Ben and Milo, brothers who have experienced a huge loss are trying to live the best life they can. However, despite Ben's cheerful facade and Milo's tough exterior, they are struggling to hold it together. Milo's school life isn't going all that well, and Ben is constantly having self-doubts regarding how best he can parent Milo (in the absence of his parents) and is frequently getting overwhelmed. At this critical juncture, Jack Pecker enters their life as Milo's wood-work teacher (who also renovates homes as a side business). Ben asks him to renovate their family home in return for rent-free tenancy while Jack works on their house.
They share an immediate attraction,💕 but since a teacher-parent relationship would cause issues for Milo in school, they decide to keep things platonic. They almost slip a couple of times, but somehow manage to keep things friendly through all the closeness of co-habitation❤️. Nevertheless, Ben starts to fall for Jack and Jack starts seeing Ben and Milo as his missing family.. something he has yearned for ever since he was estranged from his own family.💔 But can they build a relationship out of mutual attraction? What will be the reaction of Jack's friends and other teachers in school? How will Milo react when he finds out?
The slow-burn between Jack and Ben is amazing, but what is ever more amazing is how they all slowly start to form a familial bond👨❤️👨. Milo is a great supporting character and the rapport the two brothers share through thick and thin is great to see. This was a perfect, low-angst, sweet, family oriented M/M romance. 💝👌Highly recommended!! 👍
April 19, 2019
3.5 life stars
I was blown away with the first book in this series, Taboo For You. So when I heard a 2nd book was coming out I might as well have been sitting on an ant pile I was so anxious to get my hands on it. I'm so happy to say it did not disappoint.
I felt so bad for Jack in the previous book. I just had to see his HEA in this one. He couldn't possibly be a more angelic character.
This story brings such a strong feeling of family. Twenty-four year old Ben is the sole caregiver for his 11 year old brother Milo after their parents both died in a car accident. Throughout the story you can see how hard Ben is trying to be a good parent. You can feel the love between the brothers.
When 39 year old Jack comes into the picture, his maturity and no nonsense attitude is exactly what both boys need. We watch as all three of them fall inexorably in love with each other. It's a slow, beautiful process.
Anyta Sunday makes the small moments count. She shows us everyday life through a rose colored microscope and I feel privileged to have seen the beauty by reading this wonderful story.
Review ARC graciously provided by the author via NetGalley.
I was blown away with the first book in this series, Taboo For You. So when I heard a 2nd book was coming out I might as well have been sitting on an ant pile I was so anxious to get my hands on it. I'm so happy to say it did not disappoint.
I felt so bad for Jack in the previous book. I just had to see his HEA in this one. He couldn't possibly be a more angelic character.
This story brings such a strong feeling of family. Twenty-four year old Ben is the sole caregiver for his 11 year old brother Milo after their parents both died in a car accident. Throughout the story you can see how hard Ben is trying to be a good parent. You can feel the love between the brothers.
When 39 year old Jack comes into the picture, his maturity and no nonsense attitude is exactly what both boys need. We watch as all three of them fall inexorably in love with each other. It's a slow, beautiful process.
Anyta Sunday makes the small moments count. She shows us everyday life through a rose colored microscope and I feel privileged to have seen the beauty by reading this wonderful story.
Review ARC graciously provided by the author via NetGalley.
October 17, 2020
This was an amazing beautiful age-gap story. Jack is the serious older (39) teacher, who lives with his ex Luke (from book 1) and ex’s partner (Sam), looking for a house to renovate and move into. Ben is the hilarious 24yo who lost his parents a year ago in an accident, and is way overwhelmed trying to raise his 11yo brother. Milo (the little brother) is in one of Jack’s classes and that’s how they meet. Ben wants to sell the family house because he is too heartbroken to live in it, but it needs renovations first.
So Jack the hot teacher moves in and starts renovating.
And the sex starts? Nope.
It’s the slowest of slow burns. Like agonizingly slow. They don’t even kiss until you are 75% in. But they fall in love, and it’s beautiful and heartwarming. It is clear from the beginning they both want more, Jack is refraining, his job is at risk, but he also doesn’t want to hurt those boys more than they already hurt.
I loved watching Ben grow and evolve with Jack there. In the beginning, it’s like he and Milo are two lost teenagers on their own. It’s sweet and heartbreaking. I mean most days I’m fucking up this whole parenting thing myself as a mother. So we feel for Ben. No judgement here. And with Jack’s support, he grows into his role, and they become a family.
Sweet, relatively low angst, will make you smile. Highly recommended and is going straight to my favourites shelf.
Definitely standalone, I didn’t read the first book.
So Jack the hot teacher moves in and starts renovating.
And the sex starts? Nope.
It’s the slowest of slow burns. Like agonizingly slow. They don’t even kiss until you are 75% in. But they fall in love, and it’s beautiful and heartwarming. It is clear from the beginning they both want more, Jack is refraining, his job is at risk, but he also doesn’t want to hurt those boys more than they already hurt.
I loved watching Ben grow and evolve with Jack there. In the beginning, it’s like he and Milo are two lost teenagers on their own. It’s sweet and heartbreaking. I mean most days I’m fucking up this whole parenting thing myself as a mother. So we feel for Ben. No judgement here. And with Jack’s support, he grows into his role, and they become a family.
Sweet, relatively low angst, will make you smile. Highly recommended and is going straight to my favourites shelf.
Definitely standalone, I didn’t read the first book.
September 12, 2019
Loved it!!! Super sweet and oh the slow burning!!!
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