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Luke Lawson is committed to one thing—saving his boarding school before a cash crisis sinks it. He’ll do anything to keep it afloat while vulnerable children rely on him, even if that means accepting help from the man who let him down at uni.
Nathan’s offer to teach for free could be a blessing as long as Luke can guard his soft heart. That’s tough when they’ll need to share living quarters and have a history of hook-ups. But Luke knows being compatible in bed isn’t enough to build trust. It can’t be when Nathan has always left him before morning.
This time around, it feels different. Nathan's work overseas has changed him, touched him, opened a locked chamber in his heart that Luke is beginning to think must have been bruised in the past too.
As pressure mounts to keep the school open, can Luke trust that Nathan’s committed this time—not only to the school but to a shared future with him long term?
♥ Featuring a second chance at first love in close proximity, Luke is the third standalone novel in the Learning to Love series. Set in England's glorious county of Cornwall, each book has a fulfilling happily ever after. ♥
CW: Non-explicit mention of past abusive relationships and anxiety.
Nathan’s offer to teach for free could be a blessing as long as Luke can guard his soft heart. That’s tough when they’ll need to share living quarters and have a history of hook-ups. But Luke knows being compatible in bed isn’t enough to build trust. It can’t be when Nathan has always left him before morning.
This time around, it feels different. Nathan's work overseas has changed him, touched him, opened a locked chamber in his heart that Luke is beginning to think must have been bruised in the past too.
As pressure mounts to keep the school open, can Luke trust that Nathan’s committed this time—not only to the school but to a shared future with him long term?
♥ Featuring a second chance at first love in close proximity, Luke is the third standalone novel in the Learning to Love series. Set in England's glorious county of Cornwall, each book has a fulfilling happily ever after. ♥
CW: Non-explicit mention of past abusive relationships and anxiety.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2022
66 people are currently reading
361 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
February 27, 2022
idk what book all the arc reviewers read bcos we clearly didn’t read the same one? definitely my most disappointing read of 2022 so far.
someone explain to me the point of this book? bcos i would love to know why i not only wasted my time reading this disappointment, but wasted months being so stoked for Luke and Nathan to get the romance they deserved🤡
i think this was supposed to be emotional? but for me, it truly had no real depth whatsoever. the foundations of Nathan and Luke’s relationship were so vague and weak. i feel like the same poetic shit was constantly reiterated without any solid ground to the sentiments — Luke talked about this sordid past, the pain Nathan caused him, how he’d never put his faith in Nathan again...
then the next page they’d be kissing like nothing happened, like Luke hadn’t told Nathan to back off bcos he didn’t want a casual relationship. there was no real angst. no pain or conflict. they’d both say one thing, then do something that completely contradicted what they’d just said?
they just talked so much about their connection, how much it meant to them, the memories of each other... but for Nathan at least, it didn’t add up to his actions whatsoever. he always walked away from Luke, don’t ask me why bcos i still don’t know, yet would say how his fondest memories that kept him going were always Luke? if Luke has always meant that much to you, why the fuck did you treat him like shit??
the book opens with Luke taking a stand internally that he will distance himself from Nathan bcos he can’t do the half-arsed thing Nathan has always done with Luke... and that lasts for literally five seconds before their kissing and groping and Luke is pining and letting Nathan worm his way back in 1) without Nathan putting in any effort whatsoever, 2) taking Nathan’s half-arsed, allusive riddles at face value instead of asking Nathan to be more explicit.
bcos Nathan was truly one of those people who says SO MUCH without actually saying anything of value whatsoever. he kept repeating the same basic sentiment that he’s always thinking about Luke yet his actions prove he’s never been thinking about Luke but himself instead lmao.
why this time? why now? especially since Nathan didn’t actively DO anything remotely convincing. he just said he was staying... why the fuck would Luke believe you now? when Luke has woken up the next morning to find Nathan gone without a word and no trace of him left behind...
the book opens with Nathan already acting like this time is different and now he wants Luke properly so there was no real development. we don’t go on a journey. we don’t see either man grow in anyway shape or form bcos it all seems to be off page before the book even began. like they kept mentioning the night on the moors which happened in book one, about how it changed shit for them BUT WE DON’T GET TO SEE ANY OF IT!! we didn’t see it in book one bcos that’s Charles’ POV, it’s only briefly mentioned... so if it’s such a pivotal moment for both Luke and Nathan, why the actual fuck are we not shown it? why isn’t the interaction explored in more depth and detail?
there was just zero buildup. the previous books indicate all this tension, angst, history, pining, hurt, resentment, betrayal between them... and i felt precisely nothing. i expected a huge collision. an explosion of all that pent up emotion bubbling over years. and instead im left so disappointed and unsatisfied. i think if you read this as a stand-alone with no previous history of the characters, you probably wouldn’t feel this way. but from the set up from the previous books, i feel robbed ngl.
it’s just made me question what the actual point of this book was? you could have just told me in one of the other character’s books that these two just magically got back together with no real ground work and saved me the time of slogging through this – bcos that’s all that happened here too. they literally just magically reconciled with no ground work done on Nathan’s part and it resulted in Luke looking so pathetic in my eyes. like i said, the book opens with Luke telling himself that this time won’t be the same as before with Nathan and he won’t fall into the same old patterns, that he’s distancing himself... and pretty sure by the end of that first chapter or maybe it’s the following one, they’re making out in his office🙃
pacing where? bcos i was 41% into the book and it could have just ended right there. Luke and Nathan were reconciled, Nathan hadn’t put any real effort into explaining his past actions while vouching that this time around was different... i–💀
and it just made Luke look like a gullible lil idiot. which i struggled to reconcile with the previous portrayals of Luke who’s a very hardened, stoic type of man. i wanted Nathan to be held accountable for his actions. and to be told WHY he continuously walked out on Luke, again and again and again and again... you get the picture right?
and yes, before people harp at me for being a bitch, i know we later find out about some of Nathan’s trauma with Grove (which was so bizarre and vapid😭 the author literally couldn’t have chosen anything else? it was laughable and instead of making me sympathise with Nathan, i just laughed bcos it was all so ridiculous). maybe if his trauma had been explained throughout the book, rather than info-dumped at the end and his character had been explored more then it would explain his actions, but they weren’t. so it truly wasn’t good enough for me. whacking up the trauma factor in a shitty book is like slapping a bandage over a leaky pipe... does absolutely fuck all. it’s a low blow in my opinion. maybe just put some effort into characterisation instead of relying on trauma to justify/explain a character’s actions?!? so weak and convoluted.
(can u tell how frustrated and disappointed i am???)
i seriously wouldn’t call this a second chance romance🤡 it’s legit over a decade’s worth of Nathan crawling into Luke’s bed when it suits him and leaving without a word, where Luke has to pick up the pieces of his heart and the whatever’s left of his backbone.
so one star might seem extremely harsh. but i seriously couldn’t name one thing about this i enjoyed. that’s usually how i decide whether a book is one or two stars. and it kinda hurts to be so harsh but this could have been that bitch. instead was just a monumental disappointment with zero depth, angst or character development.
the wasted potential of this book is truly staggering and i think the author did a severe injustice to these two characters. they deserved a better story than this half-arsed attempt. it felt like no real effort was put into this and it was thrown together last minute with the lack of plot and repetitiveness. im honestly so mad😭
and on top of all that, the cover is fugly too.
someone explain to me the point of this book? bcos i would love to know why i not only wasted my time reading this disappointment, but wasted months being so stoked for Luke and Nathan to get the romance they deserved🤡
i think this was supposed to be emotional? but for me, it truly had no real depth whatsoever. the foundations of Nathan and Luke’s relationship were so vague and weak. i feel like the same poetic shit was constantly reiterated without any solid ground to the sentiments — Luke talked about this sordid past, the pain Nathan caused him, how he’d never put his faith in Nathan again...
then the next page they’d be kissing like nothing happened, like Luke hadn’t told Nathan to back off bcos he didn’t want a casual relationship. there was no real angst. no pain or conflict. they’d both say one thing, then do something that completely contradicted what they’d just said?
they just talked so much about their connection, how much it meant to them, the memories of each other... but for Nathan at least, it didn’t add up to his actions whatsoever. he always walked away from Luke, don’t ask me why bcos i still don’t know, yet would say how his fondest memories that kept him going were always Luke? if Luke has always meant that much to you, why the fuck did you treat him like shit??
the book opens with Luke taking a stand internally that he will distance himself from Nathan bcos he can’t do the half-arsed thing Nathan has always done with Luke... and that lasts for literally five seconds before their kissing and groping and Luke is pining and letting Nathan worm his way back in 1) without Nathan putting in any effort whatsoever, 2) taking Nathan’s half-arsed, allusive riddles at face value instead of asking Nathan to be more explicit.
bcos Nathan was truly one of those people who says SO MUCH without actually saying anything of value whatsoever. he kept repeating the same basic sentiment that he’s always thinking about Luke yet his actions prove he’s never been thinking about Luke but himself instead lmao.
why this time? why now? especially since Nathan didn’t actively DO anything remotely convincing. he just said he was staying... why the fuck would Luke believe you now? when Luke has woken up the next morning to find Nathan gone without a word and no trace of him left behind...
the book opens with Nathan already acting like this time is different and now he wants Luke properly so there was no real development. we don’t go on a journey. we don’t see either man grow in anyway shape or form bcos it all seems to be off page before the book even began. like they kept mentioning the night on the moors which happened in book one, about how it changed shit for them BUT WE DON’T GET TO SEE ANY OF IT!! we didn’t see it in book one bcos that’s Charles’ POV, it’s only briefly mentioned... so if it’s such a pivotal moment for both Luke and Nathan, why the actual fuck are we not shown it? why isn’t the interaction explored in more depth and detail?
there was just zero buildup. the previous books indicate all this tension, angst, history, pining, hurt, resentment, betrayal between them... and i felt precisely nothing. i expected a huge collision. an explosion of all that pent up emotion bubbling over years. and instead im left so disappointed and unsatisfied. i think if you read this as a stand-alone with no previous history of the characters, you probably wouldn’t feel this way. but from the set up from the previous books, i feel robbed ngl.
it’s just made me question what the actual point of this book was? you could have just told me in one of the other character’s books that these two just magically got back together with no real ground work and saved me the time of slogging through this – bcos that’s all that happened here too. they literally just magically reconciled with no ground work done on Nathan’s part and it resulted in Luke looking so pathetic in my eyes. like i said, the book opens with Luke telling himself that this time won’t be the same as before with Nathan and he won’t fall into the same old patterns, that he’s distancing himself... and pretty sure by the end of that first chapter or maybe it’s the following one, they’re making out in his office🙃
pacing where? bcos i was 41% into the book and it could have just ended right there. Luke and Nathan were reconciled, Nathan hadn’t put any real effort into explaining his past actions while vouching that this time around was different... i–💀
and it just made Luke look like a gullible lil idiot. which i struggled to reconcile with the previous portrayals of Luke who’s a very hardened, stoic type of man. i wanted Nathan to be held accountable for his actions. and to be told WHY he continuously walked out on Luke, again and again and again and again... you get the picture right?
and yes, before people harp at me for being a bitch, i know we later find out about some of Nathan’s trauma with Grove (which was so bizarre and vapid😭 the author literally couldn’t have chosen anything else? it was laughable and instead of making me sympathise with Nathan, i just laughed bcos it was all so ridiculous). maybe if his trauma had been explained throughout the book, rather than info-dumped at the end and his character had been explored more then it would explain his actions, but they weren’t. so it truly wasn’t good enough for me. whacking up the trauma factor in a shitty book is like slapping a bandage over a leaky pipe... does absolutely fuck all. it’s a low blow in my opinion. maybe just put some effort into characterisation instead of relying on trauma to justify/explain a character’s actions?!? so weak and convoluted.
(can u tell how frustrated and disappointed i am???)
i seriously wouldn’t call this a second chance romance🤡 it’s legit over a decade’s worth of Nathan crawling into Luke’s bed when it suits him and leaving without a word, where Luke has to pick up the pieces of his heart and the whatever’s left of his backbone.
so one star might seem extremely harsh. but i seriously couldn’t name one thing about this i enjoyed. that’s usually how i decide whether a book is one or two stars. and it kinda hurts to be so harsh but this could have been that bitch. instead was just a monumental disappointment with zero depth, angst or character development.
the wasted potential of this book is truly staggering and i think the author did a severe injustice to these two characters. they deserved a better story than this half-arsed attempt. it felt like no real effort was put into this and it was thrown together last minute with the lack of plot and repetitiveness. im honestly so mad😭
and on top of all that, the cover is fugly too.
February 26, 2022
Happy place.
Find yours and visit often. This is one of my favorite life mottos. Do you have a dreamlike place that is entirely real? Mine include a grand peninsula with secret forests, my husband's arms, and my kindle. I can lose countless hours in each, but I'm never lost. If anything, my senses buzz as my soul finds and restores any imbalances. My kindle continues to expand and now and then, I'm fortunate enough to add another precious gift.
Luke Lawson is my latest treasure. I knew he was coming, but I wasn't prepared for the impact he would leave. Riley slashed my heart with her latest addition to the Learning to Love series; I'm not only grateful but proud to bear this new scar.
Luke's happy place is Glynn Harber. His position as headmaster isn't just a job; it's his calling. He would give everything and do anything for his kids. Because that's what they are, his family. If there's one thing he wants for himself, it's Nathan. But if he must, he'll sacrifice the love of his life for the school. When Nathan appears for one of his casual visits, Luke draws a line in the sand. He can't continue to flay his chest open every time Nathan shows up. The school needs his focus or his worst nightmare will come true. What he never expected was Nathan declaring his happy place. Which happens to be a stern-faced knight in tarnished armor.
Luke. Considering this is the third book set at Glynn Harber, the headmaster is not a stranger. When Luke, Nathan, and Hugo met at uni, a bond was forged. A bond that will last a lifetime. Nothing can change that. But without Luke’s permission, he also gave Nathan his heart. Not that he’s ever regretted it. But lately, it’s been a lonely commitment. Nathan slips in on a soft breeze, warms his bed and heart, and then disappears before Luke has a chance to fill his empty wells. Luke offered a safe haven to Hugo when he returned and would love to do the same for Nathan, if only he’s given the chance. Each time Nathan leaves, Luke breaks a little more. Will he ever be enough? The instinct to survive has fueled every step in Luke’s path. And now it’s telling him casual is no longer an option. Can he take his heart back? Even if it’s in pieces, it must be better than what he has now, right? Or could Nathan plant roots with him and help him hold Glynn Harber together? Maybe the burden won’t be impossible if it’s not shouldered alone?
Nathan. In all honesty, I wasn’t sure I was going to like Nathan. Spoiler alert…I didn’t just like him. I loved him. Initially, I wanted to barge in with my own shield and protect Luke from what I perceived as a cockeyed relationship. The glimpses of Nathan until now did not shine him in the best of light. That’s not exactly true. Nathan radiates brilliance and dazzles those around him, but his constant drifting left me puzzled. He never lets Luke go but never stays either. What could be more important? Why wouldn’t he declare his intentions? It’s clear he loves Luke, but what obstructions kept him from settling? I had so many questions. And I was flabbergasted by the answers. Nathan volunteers to help Glynn Harber, but most importantly, Luke. It’s clear he’s lost Luke’s trust and he’s determined to rebuild it. Nathan is ready to topple walls and open his heart. He’s back and back to stay. But is it too little too late?
I adore second chance romance. Luke and Nathan are a perfect fit. Their paths have intersected and intertwined but never stayed on the same course. They both carry baggage but haven’t completely unpacked the bottom of the bags. Forgiveness and communication are put to the test. Luckily, they have solid support from friends and family. I loved spending time with the children. I loved returning to familiar seaside villages. I loved taking each cautious step with them. And, I even loved the monster sent to deliver the final blow to Glynn Harber. Well, eventually. Looks like his story is next and I cannot wait!
Oh, one more thing! Please take a long and careful look at the cover. *swoon* It deserves your attention!!
Beware of: Chance, whether second or final…is still a gift. Words, spoken or stolen…all have power. Love, given or taken…is never wasted.
This book is for: You, you, and you. If you haven’t met the precious crew of Glynn Harber, start with Charles. And prepare to hold on for a remarkable journey!
Book UNfunk
Find yours and visit often. This is one of my favorite life mottos. Do you have a dreamlike place that is entirely real? Mine include a grand peninsula with secret forests, my husband's arms, and my kindle. I can lose countless hours in each, but I'm never lost. If anything, my senses buzz as my soul finds and restores any imbalances. My kindle continues to expand and now and then, I'm fortunate enough to add another precious gift.
Luke Lawson is my latest treasure. I knew he was coming, but I wasn't prepared for the impact he would leave. Riley slashed my heart with her latest addition to the Learning to Love series; I'm not only grateful but proud to bear this new scar.
Luke's happy place is Glynn Harber. His position as headmaster isn't just a job; it's his calling. He would give everything and do anything for his kids. Because that's what they are, his family. If there's one thing he wants for himself, it's Nathan. But if he must, he'll sacrifice the love of his life for the school. When Nathan appears for one of his casual visits, Luke draws a line in the sand. He can't continue to flay his chest open every time Nathan shows up. The school needs his focus or his worst nightmare will come true. What he never expected was Nathan declaring his happy place. Which happens to be a stern-faced knight in tarnished armor.
Luke. Considering this is the third book set at Glynn Harber, the headmaster is not a stranger. When Luke, Nathan, and Hugo met at uni, a bond was forged. A bond that will last a lifetime. Nothing can change that. But without Luke’s permission, he also gave Nathan his heart. Not that he’s ever regretted it. But lately, it’s been a lonely commitment. Nathan slips in on a soft breeze, warms his bed and heart, and then disappears before Luke has a chance to fill his empty wells. Luke offered a safe haven to Hugo when he returned and would love to do the same for Nathan, if only he’s given the chance. Each time Nathan leaves, Luke breaks a little more. Will he ever be enough? The instinct to survive has fueled every step in Luke’s path. And now it’s telling him casual is no longer an option. Can he take his heart back? Even if it’s in pieces, it must be better than what he has now, right? Or could Nathan plant roots with him and help him hold Glynn Harber together? Maybe the burden won’t be impossible if it’s not shouldered alone?
Nathan. In all honesty, I wasn’t sure I was going to like Nathan. Spoiler alert…I didn’t just like him. I loved him. Initially, I wanted to barge in with my own shield and protect Luke from what I perceived as a cockeyed relationship. The glimpses of Nathan until now did not shine him in the best of light. That’s not exactly true. Nathan radiates brilliance and dazzles those around him, but his constant drifting left me puzzled. He never lets Luke go but never stays either. What could be more important? Why wouldn’t he declare his intentions? It’s clear he loves Luke, but what obstructions kept him from settling? I had so many questions. And I was flabbergasted by the answers. Nathan volunteers to help Glynn Harber, but most importantly, Luke. It’s clear he’s lost Luke’s trust and he’s determined to rebuild it. Nathan is ready to topple walls and open his heart. He’s back and back to stay. But is it too little too late?
I adore second chance romance. Luke and Nathan are a perfect fit. Their paths have intersected and intertwined but never stayed on the same course. They both carry baggage but haven’t completely unpacked the bottom of the bags. Forgiveness and communication are put to the test. Luckily, they have solid support from friends and family. I loved spending time with the children. I loved returning to familiar seaside villages. I loved taking each cautious step with them. And, I even loved the monster sent to deliver the final blow to Glynn Harber. Well, eventually. Looks like his story is next and I cannot wait!
Oh, one more thing! Please take a long and careful look at the cover. *swoon* It deserves your attention!!
Beware of: Chance, whether second or final…is still a gift. Words, spoken or stolen…all have power. Love, given or taken…is never wasted.
This book is for: You, you, and you. If you haven’t met the precious crew of Glynn Harber, start with Charles. And prepare to hold on for a remarkable journey!
Book UNfunk
January 21, 2022
I had the biggest book hangover after finishing Luke.
It's no secret Con Riley is one of my favourite authors, but with this one she truly excels as we finally get Luke's story. And what a heart-wrencher it is.
He's been hopelessly in love with Nathan since they were teenagers at university. Nathan is Hugo's best friend, who we've met briefly before when we got a sneaky look at their interactions when they went to rescue Charles from the Tors.
But here we get to find out the full, tortured (emotionally not physically!) history between the two of them, from when they first met, their recollections of each other (this is single POV from Luke but you get to know Nathan beautifully), all their fears and the dreams which may have come to a crashing end.
Glynn Harber is as much a part of this story as the romance between Luke and Nathan and we also get to see a surprising new side of Sol's ex Austin, who readers may have taken a dislike to in the previous book.
Without going into massive detail, this book explores what makes a friendship, why a friendship might turn to love, how that love can be battered and bruised but still cling on to faint hope and how, when that hope is rewarded, all the hurts from the past can slip away and new memories be found to patch over them.
Luke is, hands down, my favourite of all the three men Con has given us in the Learning to Love series (sorry Charles, I do still love you, sorry Mitch, you are still the GOAT when it comes to telling home truths), because there is something so vulnerable at the core of the man yet his steely determination and stern outlook hide it deep within.
Nathan brings Luke into the light. He lets him return to his younger, more carefree, self, but he also helps shore up that backbone of steel when it's really needed.
This book is also emotionally intimate, especially when Luke is still trying to hide his feelings from Nathan. His vulnerability is something precious and to finally see that taken care of, as it should be, as the book reaches its conclusion, really is quite magical.
***
As ever, I alpha read this for Con but don't take that as me having any inherent bias towards the work, she'll be the first to tell you that I let her know when something isn't quite right. All the words are her own wonderful imagination and skill 💖
***
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
It's no secret Con Riley is one of my favourite authors, but with this one she truly excels as we finally get Luke's story. And what a heart-wrencher it is.
He's been hopelessly in love with Nathan since they were teenagers at university. Nathan is Hugo's best friend, who we've met briefly before when we got a sneaky look at their interactions when they went to rescue Charles from the Tors.
But here we get to find out the full, tortured (emotionally not physically!) history between the two of them, from when they first met, their recollections of each other (this is single POV from Luke but you get to know Nathan beautifully), all their fears and the dreams which may have come to a crashing end.
Glynn Harber is as much a part of this story as the romance between Luke and Nathan and we also get to see a surprising new side of Sol's ex Austin, who readers may have taken a dislike to in the previous book.
Without going into massive detail, this book explores what makes a friendship, why a friendship might turn to love, how that love can be battered and bruised but still cling on to faint hope and how, when that hope is rewarded, all the hurts from the past can slip away and new memories be found to patch over them.
Luke is, hands down, my favourite of all the three men Con has given us in the Learning to Love series (sorry Charles, I do still love you, sorry Mitch, you are still the GOAT when it comes to telling home truths), because there is something so vulnerable at the core of the man yet his steely determination and stern outlook hide it deep within.
Nathan brings Luke into the light. He lets him return to his younger, more carefree, self, but he also helps shore up that backbone of steel when it's really needed.
This book is also emotionally intimate, especially when Luke is still trying to hide his feelings from Nathan. His vulnerability is something precious and to finally see that taken care of, as it should be, as the book reaches its conclusion, really is quite magical.
***
As ever, I alpha read this for Con but don't take that as me having any inherent bias towards the work, she'll be the first to tell you that I let her know when something isn't quite right. All the words are her own wonderful imagination and skill 💖
***
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
February 27, 2022
My first 5+++ rating of 2022.
Every time I finish a story by Con Riley I think this can’t get surpassed by any other, and here we are. The author did it again. What a story!!
Over the years Luke and Nathan shared a bedroom now and then. Nathan never stayed always ran away from him, leaving Luke behind with pain in his heart, every time a bit more shattered.
“So that’s why I have to avoid being alone with him this time.“ it’s hard to resist Nathan, but those days have to end.
Glynn Harber is the center of this series. The best school in the country, a place where they listen to children, acknowledge their needs. Thank god for places like that!
Slowly we see the puzzle of Glynn Harber get together, wow!
Austin Russell is auditing Glynn Harber, sitting on Luke’s chair, looking at all the numbers, efficiency, he has one goal, to cut in budgets. He acts haughty and confident until… Sol enters the room.
Like everyone else, there’s so much more about Austin.
While there’s a lot about Luke to find, the story about Nathan’s life, gosh!
Maybe Nathan will stay this time, maybe.
How? How is it possible to put so many layers, impressions, emotions in characters, in a story, make every person special, I love this about the author’s work. Never superficial, never! People pictured, people who got seen in all their flawed beauty! My eyes blurred, my heart raced.
Some rise above others, like Luke’s foster parents, because… wow. Maybe that’s why Luke is one of my favorites!! Yes, I still love all the others :)
Thousands of little gestures of care and love go on between these men. Thank you Con Riley for making me love people more, for showing such beautiful souls, you've outdone yourself again!
Second chances, everyone deserves them!
The end… gosh the end, my eyes blurred endlessly.
A masterly written story, utterly emotional. A must-read like the whole series!!
Every time I finish a story by Con Riley I think this can’t get surpassed by any other, and here we are. The author did it again. What a story!!
Over the years Luke and Nathan shared a bedroom now and then. Nathan never stayed always ran away from him, leaving Luke behind with pain in his heart, every time a bit more shattered.
“So that’s why I have to avoid being alone with him this time.“ it’s hard to resist Nathan, but those days have to end.
Glynn Harber is the center of this series. The best school in the country, a place where they listen to children, acknowledge their needs. Thank god for places like that!
Slowly we see the puzzle of Glynn Harber get together, wow!
Austin Russell is auditing Glynn Harber, sitting on Luke’s chair, looking at all the numbers, efficiency, he has one goal, to cut in budgets. He acts haughty and confident until… Sol enters the room.
Like everyone else, there’s so much more about Austin.
While there’s a lot about Luke to find, the story about Nathan’s life, gosh!
Maybe Nathan will stay this time, maybe.
How? How is it possible to put so many layers, impressions, emotions in characters, in a story, make every person special, I love this about the author’s work. Never superficial, never! People pictured, people who got seen in all their flawed beauty! My eyes blurred, my heart raced.
Some rise above others, like Luke’s foster parents, because… wow. Maybe that’s why Luke is one of my favorites!! Yes, I still love all the others :)
Thousands of little gestures of care and love go on between these men. Thank you Con Riley for making me love people more, for showing such beautiful souls, you've outdone yourself again!
Second chances, everyone deserves them!
The end… gosh the end, my eyes blurred endlessly.
A masterly written story, utterly emotional. A must-read like the whole series!!
March 1, 2022
This book gives us the amazing Luke, the dedicated headmaster of Glynn Harber, who is still facing a vicious cash squeeze from the new owners. He's desperate to keep the school which is sanctuary to so many kids afloat. We slowly learn some of the background that shaped Luke, and which drives him so hard in his quest. No details, but awareness of a childhood that put him into foster care, and his past need for just the kind of support and refuge the school provides.
It also, but to a much lesser degree, gives us Nathan, the man who left Luke in college, and who has come and gone in his life ever since. Luke loves Nathan and always has, though he hates to admit it to himself, because that adds pathos to the fact that he's been willing to settle for brief encounters, before Nathan heads off on his latest mission to do good overseas, leaving Luke behind.
This time, when Nathan blows into town to give a career day talk, Luke is determined to keep a distance and not let that cycle simply repeat again. But Nathan seems different, the talk reveals cracks and pain under Nathan's confident facade, and Luke is falling again.
I did wish this book was dual POV. That wouldn't fit the series style, (or the author's) but so much about Nathan was hidden for so long, that it was hard to get a grasp on him as a real person. I spent the first half of the book thinking about how Luke deserved so much better. By seeing Luke's pain, but not a satisfactory hint of Nathan's, the romance felt unbalanced. Of course, once the author pulls that curtain back, and we figure out some truths about Nathan, then empathy shifts and both men are revealed as a good fit, as support and an understanding shoulder for each other.
Austin, the accountant sent to review the school's books, is an interesting guy, at first so abrasive as to be cartoonish. But cracks in that facade develop, explaining his attitude, and I'm looking forward to his story. And I wish that kids in need, everywhere, had a school like Glynn Harber and a headmaster like Luke to be their sanctuary.
It also, but to a much lesser degree, gives us Nathan, the man who left Luke in college, and who has come and gone in his life ever since. Luke loves Nathan and always has, though he hates to admit it to himself, because that adds pathos to the fact that he's been willing to settle for brief encounters, before Nathan heads off on his latest mission to do good overseas, leaving Luke behind.
This time, when Nathan blows into town to give a career day talk, Luke is determined to keep a distance and not let that cycle simply repeat again. But Nathan seems different, the talk reveals cracks and pain under Nathan's confident facade, and Luke is falling again.
I did wish this book was dual POV. That wouldn't fit the series style, (or the author's) but so much about Nathan was hidden for so long, that it was hard to get a grasp on him as a real person. I spent the first half of the book thinking about how Luke deserved so much better. By seeing Luke's pain, but not a satisfactory hint of Nathan's, the romance felt unbalanced. Of course, once the author pulls that curtain back, and we figure out some truths about Nathan, then empathy shifts and both men are revealed as a good fit, as support and an understanding shoulder for each other.
Austin, the accountant sent to review the school's books, is an interesting guy, at first so abrasive as to be cartoonish. But cracks in that facade develop, explaining his attitude, and I'm looking forward to his story. And I wish that kids in need, everywhere, had a school like Glynn Harber and a headmaster like Luke to be their sanctuary.
December 9, 2021
Full review to follow...I have no idea what to read next because whatever it is won't top this one.
August 13, 2024
You know that question, 'what book world would you live in if you could?', I've never had an answer for that until now. If Glynn Harber was a real place and these characters were real people, I'd have been there yesterday.
I love how romance is just one part of these stories. I love the whole ethos of this school and the characters - if this was a real place then I'd want to teach there and have my boy learn there. I genuinely wish more people would see children's learning in this way, instead of training them to pass exams and nothing else mattering to the people who run schools. Huge part of why my son is home educated...
Luke absolutely stole my heart. I loved his character, the battles he's been through and the way he is so fiercely protective of his school and his children.
Nathan was harder to love because of how he'd behaved, but I warmed to him and my heart broke whenever he talked about his lost children.
I love how these books have so many issues that are addressed and instead of wallowing in a feeling of hopelessness, you get a real feel of hope instead and so much inspiration.
Cannot wait for the next book and Con Riley is now firmly on my favourite authors list.
I love how romance is just one part of these stories. I love the whole ethos of this school and the characters - if this was a real place then I'd want to teach there and have my boy learn there. I genuinely wish more people would see children's learning in this way, instead of training them to pass exams and nothing else mattering to the people who run schools. Huge part of why my son is home educated...
Luke absolutely stole my heart. I loved his character, the battles he's been through and the way he is so fiercely protective of his school and his children.
Nathan was harder to love because of how he'd behaved, but I warmed to him and my heart broke whenever he talked about his lost children.
I love how these books have so many issues that are addressed and instead of wallowing in a feeling of hopelessness, you get a real feel of hope instead and so much inspiration.
Cannot wait for the next book and Con Riley is now firmly on my favourite authors list.
Read
July 24, 2023DNF @70%. Exhibit A of a case of me not being in the right mood to read this right now. I started skimming it around the halfway mark. It’s a great story and I would have finished it at any other time, but the slow pace and poetic style couldn’t keep my attention.
February 3, 2022
I’m always leery of second chance romances BUT this one was an excellent rollercoaster ride of intense emotions AND I loved the journey.
Luke and Nathan have known each other for a long time. Longer than Luke even realizes.
Nathan hurts Luke in the worst way. The rejection leaves an indelible mark. Can Luke trust Nathan again? This is the crux of the book.
Austin makes an appearance again and is quite pivotal in the outcome of the HEA in a very surprising way. I loved that twist.
Nathan has been scarred too and needs to show Luke that he’s changed. It’s quite the build up until the explosive end. I enjoyed their journey to their HEA. It was quite something. The rock analogy will stay with me forever too. Loved it!
Luke and Nathan have known each other for a long time. Longer than Luke even realizes.
Nathan hurts Luke in the worst way. The rejection leaves an indelible mark. Can Luke trust Nathan again? This is the crux of the book.
Austin makes an appearance again and is quite pivotal in the outcome of the HEA in a very surprising way. I loved that twist.
Nathan has been scarred too and needs to show Luke that he’s changed. It’s quite the build up until the explosive end. I enjoyed their journey to their HEA. It was quite something. The rock analogy will stay with me forever too. Loved it!
February 27, 2022
Well, if Luke wants donations to fund Glynn Harber, here I am **waves madly**. I would've sold my soul to have had a school like that for my son to attend, instead of the bully-ridden schools he had to go to.
The wonderful Charles Heppel and Hugo, little Tor Trelawney 🥰🥰 and his best mate Maisie. How the teachers take such care of their charges and actually listen to them instead of simply paying them lip service all the time. This is a real feelgood story.
Luke and Nathan were finally in tune with one another 💕💕, Luke was so strong thanks to his brilliant foster parents, and needed to be in view of everything that went on. This series goes from strength to strength, and Austin's story is eagerly awaited. I do love me a good redemption tale 😊. Absolutely terrific Con Riley. 🥳🥳🥳
The wonderful Charles Heppel and Hugo, little Tor Trelawney 🥰🥰 and his best mate Maisie. How the teachers take such care of their charges and actually listen to them instead of simply paying them lip service all the time. This is a real feelgood story.
Luke and Nathan were finally in tune with one another 💕💕, Luke was so strong thanks to his brilliant foster parents, and needed to be in view of everything that went on. This series goes from strength to strength, and Austin's story is eagerly awaited. I do love me a good redemption tale 😊. Absolutely terrific Con Riley. 🥳🥳🥳
February 28, 2022
* 3 stars *
Luke is a second chance romance between two friends who have a long history of casual hookups and false starts.
Luke and Nathan met in college and dated briefly while they were roommates. After things ended between them, they kept their distance until a few years later, when they began hooking up the few times they met each year.
That situation, though, wasn't what Luke was craving. He didn't want to wake up alone the next morning anymore, and he was tired of always being left behind as Nathan departed yet again. So when they meet again at the beginning of the book, Luke decides to end all that.
Nothing goes quite as planned, of course, and they're off to give a relationship between them a second try.
There are many subplots running along with the main one, and the many side characters fill out the story nicely. The problem is that there was too much drama. Everything happened due to significant miscommunication issues, which were still there until the last two or three chapters, and there was a bad guy that was just plain evil.
I liked the career talks, but maybe Luke and Nathan shared a bit too much with the students. Some parts could have been discussed just between the two of them. Luke's talk about ACEs was fascinating, though.
Also, I found it weird how little they knew about each other's family and past, considering how many years they knew each other and how close they used to be while in college.
The ending was kind of mussy. Full of messages and tying everything up with a nice bow.
All in all, there was not enough struggle to come back from so many years of hurting each other. They got back together too quickly and easily. And then, near the end, there was the drama for the sake of drama with yet more miscommunication. Thankfully it got resolved relatively quickly that time.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
Luke is a second chance romance between two friends who have a long history of casual hookups and false starts.
Luke and Nathan met in college and dated briefly while they were roommates. After things ended between them, they kept their distance until a few years later, when they began hooking up the few times they met each year.
That situation, though, wasn't what Luke was craving. He didn't want to wake up alone the next morning anymore, and he was tired of always being left behind as Nathan departed yet again. So when they meet again at the beginning of the book, Luke decides to end all that.
Nothing goes quite as planned, of course, and they're off to give a relationship between them a second try.
There are many subplots running along with the main one, and the many side characters fill out the story nicely. The problem is that there was too much drama. Everything happened due to significant miscommunication issues, which were still there until the last two or three chapters, and there was a bad guy that was just plain evil.
I liked the career talks, but maybe Luke and Nathan shared a bit too much with the students. Some parts could have been discussed just between the two of them. Luke's talk about ACEs was fascinating, though.
Also, I found it weird how little they knew about each other's family and past, considering how many years they knew each other and how close they used to be while in college.
The ending was kind of mussy. Full of messages and tying everything up with a nice bow.
All in all, there was not enough struggle to come back from so many years of hurting each other. They got back together too quickly and easily. And then, near the end, there was the drama for the sake of drama with yet more miscommunication. Thankfully it got resolved relatively quickly that time.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
February 8, 2022
When Charles and Hugo's story full of sunshine (no one can beat Charles Heppel), Sol and Jace's all gloom and doubt, Luke and Nathan's story was hope and doubt.
It was slow, you need patience to put Luke into his senses and just accepted that Nathan was there for him. To stay. As long as he needed. Luke need him forever? He'll stay forever.
I liked it how Nathan was so patient, also Luke and Austin hate relationship has become something to learn.
We don't just judging people by their outside appearance.
Just give it to Charles Heppel to see good in people. Everything will follow :)
I liked that Hugo and Charles and also the legendary Tor play part of this story (Sol not so much), it brings a little bit sunshine to this third book in the series
Now about Austin....
It was slow, you need patience to put Luke into his senses and just accepted that Nathan was there for him. To stay. As long as he needed. Luke need him forever? He'll stay forever.
I liked it how Nathan was so patient, also Luke and Austin hate relationship has become something to learn.
We don't just judging people by their outside appearance.
Just give it to Charles Heppel to see good in people. Everything will follow :)
I liked that Hugo and Charles and also the legendary Tor play part of this story (Sol not so much), it brings a little bit sunshine to this third book in the series
Now about Austin....
March 14, 2022
perfection
I wasn’t sure Con could match the magic of Charles. That book was really special. But this book was taken to a whole new level of incredible. Every single word. Every single chapter. Every single interaction… was done with purpose. It had heart and intention. It doesn’t have a trope. It’s not over the top dramatic just because. It’s just REALLY GOOD WRITING. This book is what I’ve been missing lately. I read it slowly, and I’m so glad I did. It was SO satisfying. The end made me cry. There was little relationship angst. A LOT of talk about trauma and healing but it was done so so well. Ugh. I’m just repeating myself because I’m just so stunned after finishing. I just want to thank Con for the gift of this book. It was just lovely. It’s going to stay with me for a long time.
I wasn’t sure Con could match the magic of Charles. That book was really special. But this book was taken to a whole new level of incredible. Every single word. Every single chapter. Every single interaction… was done with purpose. It had heart and intention. It doesn’t have a trope. It’s not over the top dramatic just because. It’s just REALLY GOOD WRITING. This book is what I’ve been missing lately. I read it slowly, and I’m so glad I did. It was SO satisfying. The end made me cry. There was little relationship angst. A LOT of talk about trauma and healing but it was done so so well. Ugh. I’m just repeating myself because I’m just so stunned after finishing. I just want to thank Con for the gift of this book. It was just lovely. It’s going to stay with me for a long time.
March 5, 2022
Carrying trauma
up the Tor, across the years.
Saving Glynn Harbor.
up the Tor, across the years.
Saving Glynn Harbor.
February 26, 2022
3.75 stars rounded up
This is one of my most awaited books in the first half of 2022 - I've been waiting for Luke and Nathan's love story since Charles, it was released on my birthday, and I was so very excited. Unfortunately, I wasn't fully satisfied, it wasn't as perfect as I wished it to be. It was still beautiful story, I must tip off my hat to Con Riley's on that. It still pulled my heartstrings, and I did have tears hanging on my eyes at some scenes.
Let me get my frustration first ... Unlike Charles's or Sol's, this story should be about Luke AND Nathan. Nathan is the one keep leaving Luke. But there are two sides of EVERY story. Keeping this book solely on Luke's perspective irritated me so much. Because we are forced to side with Luke, sympathize with him, angry with Nathan for keeping breaking Luke's heart. I feel like I was manipulated, you know? It's easy to love Luke since the first time I read about him. I wanted know more about Nathan. And I hated being kept in the dark until the very end.
Which brought me to the villain... GAH, what a cartoonish villain he was! I like my villain to be more, well, layered than that. It also felt like an EASY way out to explain Nathan's situation. AND, once more, because the story is only from Luke's perspective, I didn't get to know and feel Nathan's struggle, Nathan's trauma for all these years.
It felt very unbalanced and unfair for Nathan, in my perspective. Not to mention that Nathan's method of evading, made this one full of unfinished discussion (there were a lot of kissing though) and that just didn't work.
Meanwhile, if you already love Luke, though, this book will make you LOVE him even more. I know I did. He's just amazing, Luke Lawson. Con Riley opens Luke as a person open for us, his background, his own struggle, his own dream and determination to save Glynn Harbor. ALL of the kids at the school are Luke's kids. He will lay down his wealth, his heart, his soul to save them all. AND, this book will make you also fall in love with his parents as well... WE NEED MORE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD LIKE THE LAWSON'S!!! Seriously, the moments where Luke phoned his father was the ones that brought tears to my eyes.
So I love EVERYTHING written about Luke (and we have many great moments from Charles and Tor as well). But the romance was a little disappointing. I'm still rounding it up to 4-stars since I like it better than Sol but IMHO, Charles is still the best so far.
This is one of my most awaited books in the first half of 2022 - I've been waiting for Luke and Nathan's love story since Charles, it was released on my birthday, and I was so very excited. Unfortunately, I wasn't fully satisfied, it wasn't as perfect as I wished it to be. It was still beautiful story, I must tip off my hat to Con Riley's on that. It still pulled my heartstrings, and I did have tears hanging on my eyes at some scenes.
Let me get my frustration first ... Unlike Charles's or Sol's, this story should be about Luke AND Nathan. Nathan is the one keep leaving Luke. But there are two sides of EVERY story. Keeping this book solely on Luke's perspective irritated me so much. Because we are forced to side with Luke, sympathize with him, angry with Nathan for keeping breaking Luke's heart. I feel like I was manipulated, you know? It's easy to love Luke since the first time I read about him. I wanted know more about Nathan. And I hated being kept in the dark until the very end.
Which brought me to the villain... GAH, what a cartoonish villain he was! I like my villain to be more, well, layered than that. It also felt like an EASY way out to explain Nathan's situation. AND, once more, because the story is only from Luke's perspective, I didn't get to know and feel Nathan's struggle, Nathan's trauma for all these years.
It felt very unbalanced and unfair for Nathan, in my perspective. Not to mention that Nathan's method of evading, made this one full of unfinished discussion (there were a lot of kissing though) and that just didn't work.
Meanwhile, if you already love Luke, though, this book will make you LOVE him even more. I know I did. He's just amazing, Luke Lawson. Con Riley opens Luke as a person open for us, his background, his own struggle, his own dream and determination to save Glynn Harbor. ALL of the kids at the school are Luke's kids. He will lay down his wealth, his heart, his soul to save them all. AND, this book will make you also fall in love with his parents as well... WE NEED MORE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD LIKE THE LAWSON'S!!! Seriously, the moments where Luke phoned his father was the ones that brought tears to my eyes.
So I love EVERYTHING written about Luke (and we have many great moments from Charles and Tor as well). But the romance was a little disappointing. I'm still rounding it up to 4-stars since I like it better than Sol but IMHO, Charles is still the best so far.
February 25, 2022
DNF @ 34%
Here is the thing…I longed for this book. Pined for it. Luke, strong man in rusted armour who gives everything in his life to his school and light of my life finally got his book. And he’s in “unrequited” love with…Nathan? Nathan who is cryptic to the point of cruelty, aware of what Luke wants from him but never says more than “I’m here as long as you need me.”
Maybe it’s because we the reader (at least up until the point that I read) never get Nathan’s voice or point of view. All we get is Luke’s confusion and disappointment and frustration and yet…he just lets it keep happening because he’ll take what he can get from Nathan like he always has…even though he’s vowed over and over to stop doing that.
And of course anyone who has read a book before KNOWS there is a reason Nathan keeps his distance. We know there is a reason the school is targeted the way it is. The author makes it seem like it’s a secret she’s meanly keeping from us instead of a mystery to unravel.
Did I skip ahead and happen to land at the perfect place to see what it was? Yes. Did I groan and drop my Kindle when we find out the reason for it all? Yes.
So one moment in time involving a preteen boy barely embarrassing a grown ass man (who he called out for being a jerk) 20 years prior is the cause. That everything happening to Luke is because of that?!?!
I still gave it two stars because I do love the author and I love their style. They convey emotion on the page so well but this wasn’t just a miss for me, it was a disappointment.
Here is the thing…I longed for this book. Pined for it. Luke, strong man in rusted armour who gives everything in his life to his school and light of my life finally got his book. And he’s in “unrequited” love with…Nathan? Nathan who is cryptic to the point of cruelty, aware of what Luke wants from him but never says more than “I’m here as long as you need me.”
Maybe it’s because we the reader (at least up until the point that I read) never get Nathan’s voice or point of view. All we get is Luke’s confusion and disappointment and frustration and yet…he just lets it keep happening because he’ll take what he can get from Nathan like he always has…even though he’s vowed over and over to stop doing that.
And of course anyone who has read a book before KNOWS there is a reason Nathan keeps his distance. We know there is a reason the school is targeted the way it is. The author makes it seem like it’s a secret she’s meanly keeping from us instead of a mystery to unravel.
Did I skip ahead and happen to land at the perfect place to see what it was? Yes. Did I groan and drop my Kindle when we find out the reason for it all? Yes.
So one moment in time involving a preteen boy barely embarrassing a grown ass man (who he called out for being a jerk) 20 years prior is the cause. That everything happening to Luke is because of that?!?!
I still gave it two stars because I do love the author and I love their style. They convey emotion on the page so well but this wasn’t just a miss for me, it was a disappointment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2022
Big swoony sigh.
First off, that COVER!! It definitely gives a clue as to how good the book is. Natasha Snow outdid herself with this one.
Last year I considered Charles as one of the best books I read out of over 200. This year, I'm sure Luke will also make that list.
Headmaster Luke featured prominently in the first two books of the series and I suspected that his book would steal my heart, and I was absolutely correct. He and Nathan suit each other perfectly, and watching them figure that out took me on a wonderful roller coater ride of emotion with them.
Con Riley has created a captivating world with her Glynn Harber, a Cornish haven where sexy but imperfect men find love in spite of themselves. I am quite picky about books with children in them, perhaps because I used to act, and everyone knows children can always upstage the main show. They're an integral part of the story given that its set in a school, but Con has a deft hand with these young characters and I loved them as much as I did the MCs.
Book One's Charles and His Holy Hotness, Hugo, make appearances, as do Book Two's Sol, Jace, and of course Cameron, along with my youngest thief of hearts, Tor, so while it's not absolutely necessary for you to read the others first, I highly recommend doing so as there are some spoilerish elements to this story.
I can't wait to visit Cornwall again for Austin's book.
First off, that COVER!! It definitely gives a clue as to how good the book is. Natasha Snow outdid herself with this one.
Last year I considered Charles as one of the best books I read out of over 200. This year, I'm sure Luke will also make that list.
Headmaster Luke featured prominently in the first two books of the series and I suspected that his book would steal my heart, and I was absolutely correct. He and Nathan suit each other perfectly, and watching them figure that out took me on a wonderful roller coater ride of emotion with them.
Con Riley has created a captivating world with her Glynn Harber, a Cornish haven where sexy but imperfect men find love in spite of themselves. I am quite picky about books with children in them, perhaps because I used to act, and everyone knows children can always upstage the main show. They're an integral part of the story given that its set in a school, but Con has a deft hand with these young characters and I loved them as much as I did the MCs.
Book One's Charles and His Holy Hotness, Hugo, make appearances, as do Book Two's Sol, Jace, and of course Cameron, along with my youngest thief of hearts, Tor, so while it's not absolutely necessary for you to read the others first, I highly recommend doing so as there are some spoilerish elements to this story.
I can't wait to visit Cornwall again for Austin's book.
March 23, 2023
Beautiful Romance
Con Riley has a style of writing that seems to grab you and pull you into the story, heart and soul leaving you completely invested in the characters and genuinely caring about what happens to them. This book was no different, I was pulling for Luke and Nathan, desperate for them to have their happy ever after. I loved how characters from previous books in the series were also doing exactly that! Also, the chemistry between Luke and Nathan was sizzling, but it was the tenderness and emotion they shared which made their relationship tug at my heart. The story included some of the tenderest romantic scenes I've come across ♥ I'm not giving away any spoilers, however, it wouldn’t be Con if she didn’t pull out your heart, mash it into pulp before returning it carefully to its rightful place. I feel that she’s also one of the few authors I find who can tackle sensitive subjects with respect, whilst maintaining authenticity. Just want to add, at the risk of sounding pedestrian, the thing that has stood out for me in these books is a sense of hope. While events in our lives, especially the traumatic ones, shape the people we become, they do not define us. This particularly is relevant to Luke and Nathan's story. If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would!
Con Riley has a style of writing that seems to grab you and pull you into the story, heart and soul leaving you completely invested in the characters and genuinely caring about what happens to them. This book was no different, I was pulling for Luke and Nathan, desperate for them to have their happy ever after. I loved how characters from previous books in the series were also doing exactly that! Also, the chemistry between Luke and Nathan was sizzling, but it was the tenderness and emotion they shared which made their relationship tug at my heart. The story included some of the tenderest romantic scenes I've come across ♥ I'm not giving away any spoilers, however, it wouldn’t be Con if she didn’t pull out your heart, mash it into pulp before returning it carefully to its rightful place. I feel that she’s also one of the few authors I find who can tackle sensitive subjects with respect, whilst maintaining authenticity. Just want to add, at the risk of sounding pedestrian, the thing that has stood out for me in these books is a sense of hope. While events in our lives, especially the traumatic ones, shape the people we become, they do not define us. This particularly is relevant to Luke and Nathan's story. If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would!
March 20, 2022
I've given this an A- at AAR, so 4.5 stars rounded up.
Luke, book three in Con Riley’s Learning to Love series, is a beautiful and powerful second-chance, friends-to-lovers story full of the exactly the sort of emotional soul-searching and insight I’ve come to expect and enjoy from this author. As in the other books in the series, the glorious Cornish settings are vividly described and the characters are complex, flawed, likeable and easy to root for.
Luke Lawson, headmaster of Glynn Harber school in Cornwall, is drowning in problems – or rather, one single, massive problem. Ever since the school was taken over by the Supernus Group, there has been constant pressure on him to cut costs, and no matter that he’s already pared expenditure down to the bone, there’s just no way he can keep the school going in its present state if even more funding is cut. We know from the previous books that the school is a labour of love for Luke, and he’s passionately dedicated to Glynn Harber’s ethos of providing disadvantaged children with a safe space in which to learn and grow. The constant pressure to prioritise balancing the books over the learning and wellbeing of the children in his care is a heavy burden however, and one he’s shouldering almost entirely alone – but he’s determined to fight to keep the school open until the bitter end. And right now, that end is looking closer than ever.
Like, Hugo (see Charles) Nathan Ridd has spent a number of years working for aid organisations in some of the most dangerous places in the world. He was with Hugo when Hugo was injured in a shelling attack in Syria, and continues to come and go, returning to England for brief periods and then returning to continue his work overseas. Luke, Hugo and Nathan have been best friends since their university days, and there are strong hints in the previous books that Luke and Nathan were probably more than friends at one point, and even though we’ve seen very little of Nathan so far, the chemistry between him and Luke has been intense. Despite a youthful relationship that didn’t work out, it’s very clear that neither man has ever been able to get the other out of his system, and we discover that over the years, whenever Nathan has been back in England, they’ve been hooking up on the quiet. But Luke has always wanted more than that from Nathan, and has decided it’s time he stopped hurting himself by hoping for more from someone who so clearly doesn’t want it. Nathan is coming to Glynn Harber to give a career talk, and Luke will tell him he can’t handle casual any more and wants to go back to being friends… without the benefits.
But the Nathan who returns to Glynn Harber is… different. Quieter. Tired. Slower. And ready to stay. After so many years of loving Nathan and being left by him, can Luke trust that Nathan means it when he tells him he’ll stick around for as long as Luke needs him? And what if that’s forever..?
Luke is full of heartfelt emotion and intense longing that leaps off the page as these two lonely, damaged men slowly find their way back to each other and find their places in each other’s lives. It’s a story of forgiveness, personal growth and learning to let go as they are finally honest with each other – and with themselves – about what they want and what’s been holding them back. They’ve both been shaped by years of unprocessed trauma, experiences that have caused them to build thick emotional walls, and that they have both transcended their upbringings to become such selfless and compassionate men is testament to their massive resilience and inner strength.
Based on what we’ve learned of him prior to this, it would be easy to think of Nathan as a bit selfish and oblivious, but it quickly becomes clear that he’s not like that at all and that he’s serious about making things right with Luke. And Luke, who has seemed rather severe and stoic is, beneath it all, a warm, generous, big-hearted man who is utterly devoted to guiding the young people in his care towards becoming the best they can possibly be.
I really liked the way the author slowly drip-feeds the important information about Luke and Nathan’s history together through the novel, each flashback or recollection coming at exactly the right time. Their honesty and willingness to communicate their wants and needs is something that has stayed with me; it’s not easy for either of them but they know they need to do it if they’re going to break free of the unhealthy patterns they’ve fallen into, and I absolutely loved that Luke, who is such a staunch advocate of good communication for his pupils and believes passionately that they should be able to speak their truths, is prepared to put his money where his mouth is and apply the same principles to himself. The journey the on which the author takes Luke and Nathan – and the reader – is one filled with self-doubt and vulnerability, with friendship and compassion, as they learn it’s safe to let go of the past and that they’re finally on the same page at the same time and in the right emotional space to begin to make a life together.
The school community is an important part of this story, and I found myself wishing so hard that Glynn Harber was real, that every child could have the opportunity to go to a school like this where they’re allowed and helped to heal as well as to learn. The educational system here is so focused on exam success that the acutal kids are often forgotten in the rush to climb the league tables – but that’s a diatribe for another day. I can’t leave the subject, however, without saying how hard I grinned at the name of the bad guy in the story; take out one letter and it’s the name of probably the worst Education Secretary in living memory. I don’t know if that was deliberate or not, but nice one, Ms. Riley ;)
Passionate, moving and tender, Luke and Nathan’s story will make you smile, make you tear up and tug at the heartstrings in the best way. Luke joins Charles on my keeper shelf, and is highly recommended.
Luke, book three in Con Riley’s Learning to Love series, is a beautiful and powerful second-chance, friends-to-lovers story full of the exactly the sort of emotional soul-searching and insight I’ve come to expect and enjoy from this author. As in the other books in the series, the glorious Cornish settings are vividly described and the characters are complex, flawed, likeable and easy to root for.
Luke Lawson, headmaster of Glynn Harber school in Cornwall, is drowning in problems – or rather, one single, massive problem. Ever since the school was taken over by the Supernus Group, there has been constant pressure on him to cut costs, and no matter that he’s already pared expenditure down to the bone, there’s just no way he can keep the school going in its present state if even more funding is cut. We know from the previous books that the school is a labour of love for Luke, and he’s passionately dedicated to Glynn Harber’s ethos of providing disadvantaged children with a safe space in which to learn and grow. The constant pressure to prioritise balancing the books over the learning and wellbeing of the children in his care is a heavy burden however, and one he’s shouldering almost entirely alone – but he’s determined to fight to keep the school open until the bitter end. And right now, that end is looking closer than ever.
Like, Hugo (see Charles) Nathan Ridd has spent a number of years working for aid organisations in some of the most dangerous places in the world. He was with Hugo when Hugo was injured in a shelling attack in Syria, and continues to come and go, returning to England for brief periods and then returning to continue his work overseas. Luke, Hugo and Nathan have been best friends since their university days, and there are strong hints in the previous books that Luke and Nathan were probably more than friends at one point, and even though we’ve seen very little of Nathan so far, the chemistry between him and Luke has been intense. Despite a youthful relationship that didn’t work out, it’s very clear that neither man has ever been able to get the other out of his system, and we discover that over the years, whenever Nathan has been back in England, they’ve been hooking up on the quiet. But Luke has always wanted more than that from Nathan, and has decided it’s time he stopped hurting himself by hoping for more from someone who so clearly doesn’t want it. Nathan is coming to Glynn Harber to give a career talk, and Luke will tell him he can’t handle casual any more and wants to go back to being friends… without the benefits.
But the Nathan who returns to Glynn Harber is… different. Quieter. Tired. Slower. And ready to stay. After so many years of loving Nathan and being left by him, can Luke trust that Nathan means it when he tells him he’ll stick around for as long as Luke needs him? And what if that’s forever..?
Luke is full of heartfelt emotion and intense longing that leaps off the page as these two lonely, damaged men slowly find their way back to each other and find their places in each other’s lives. It’s a story of forgiveness, personal growth and learning to let go as they are finally honest with each other – and with themselves – about what they want and what’s been holding them back. They’ve both been shaped by years of unprocessed trauma, experiences that have caused them to build thick emotional walls, and that they have both transcended their upbringings to become such selfless and compassionate men is testament to their massive resilience and inner strength.
Based on what we’ve learned of him prior to this, it would be easy to think of Nathan as a bit selfish and oblivious, but it quickly becomes clear that he’s not like that at all and that he’s serious about making things right with Luke. And Luke, who has seemed rather severe and stoic is, beneath it all, a warm, generous, big-hearted man who is utterly devoted to guiding the young people in his care towards becoming the best they can possibly be.
I really liked the way the author slowly drip-feeds the important information about Luke and Nathan’s history together through the novel, each flashback or recollection coming at exactly the right time. Their honesty and willingness to communicate their wants and needs is something that has stayed with me; it’s not easy for either of them but they know they need to do it if they’re going to break free of the unhealthy patterns they’ve fallen into, and I absolutely loved that Luke, who is such a staunch advocate of good communication for his pupils and believes passionately that they should be able to speak their truths, is prepared to put his money where his mouth is and apply the same principles to himself. The journey the on which the author takes Luke and Nathan – and the reader – is one filled with self-doubt and vulnerability, with friendship and compassion, as they learn it’s safe to let go of the past and that they’re finally on the same page at the same time and in the right emotional space to begin to make a life together.
The school community is an important part of this story, and I found myself wishing so hard that Glynn Harber was real, that every child could have the opportunity to go to a school like this where they’re allowed and helped to heal as well as to learn. The educational system here is so focused on exam success that the acutal kids are often forgotten in the rush to climb the league tables – but that’s a diatribe for another day. I can’t leave the subject, however, without saying how hard I grinned at the name of the bad guy in the story; take out one letter and it’s the name of probably the worst Education Secretary in living memory. I don’t know if that was deliberate or not, but nice one, Ms. Riley ;)
Passionate, moving and tender, Luke and Nathan’s story will make you smile, make you tear up and tug at the heartstrings in the best way. Luke joins Charles on my keeper shelf, and is highly recommended.
February 24, 2022
TOP 2022 book
Le sign. I finished this book last night and I still can’t stop thinking about Luke and Nathan. This is the third book in the Learning to Love series, can be read as a stand-alone but you do see them in book one and two and learn to see their love for each other. I LOVE THEM.
Con writes so beautiful and the imagery. Wow. This book is a final chance story of Luke and Nathan. They are both hero’s trying to mend their hearts that are aching for each other. Swoon worthy.
Their history from being in uni together starts to get pieces together in their story and you get to see
The love they have had for each other for so many years. Nathan -we don’t really see
Who he is and what makes him ticks in the first two books. His story is heartbreaking and he is a dedicated hero. Luke- we think he is this stern hardened man. He is anything but. My love for him grew seeing what extent he goes to for the kids and the school.
I found myself smiling and laughing especially with little
Tor and Maisie who have stolen my heart as well and cried from emotions I was feeling with the guys. I could FEEL their love.
Anyway Go read this book and series. I can’t wait for the next book. Con has a beautiful way of putting words down and creating a swoon worthy story.
Le sign. I finished this book last night and I still can’t stop thinking about Luke and Nathan. This is the third book in the Learning to Love series, can be read as a stand-alone but you do see them in book one and two and learn to see their love for each other. I LOVE THEM.
Con writes so beautiful and the imagery. Wow. This book is a final chance story of Luke and Nathan. They are both hero’s trying to mend their hearts that are aching for each other. Swoon worthy.
Their history from being in uni together starts to get pieces together in their story and you get to see
The love they have had for each other for so many years. Nathan -we don’t really see
Who he is and what makes him ticks in the first two books. His story is heartbreaking and he is a dedicated hero. Luke- we think he is this stern hardened man. He is anything but. My love for him grew seeing what extent he goes to for the kids and the school.
I found myself smiling and laughing especially with little
Tor and Maisie who have stolen my heart as well and cried from emotions I was feeling with the guys. I could FEEL their love.
Anyway Go read this book and series. I can’t wait for the next book. Con has a beautiful way of putting words down and creating a swoon worthy story.
March 19, 2023
I just finished this book… it’s 1am and I’m utterly blown away by the brilliance that Con Riley possesses. Her series’ are interconnected and the way they ebb and flow together is literal perfection. Like you’ll have read something in one of the other books, not having a clue that it’s going to be so important in the life story of another main character in a different series! I can’t express enough how much I connected with this book, but mostly with Luke!
Luke and Nathan have a history, it’s not always a pleasant history, but it’s definitely an explosive one. Their chemistry is off the charts and some stuff went down between them in their past that you learn about slowly through out the story and the pacing is perfect.
Nathan is such a wonderful character. You think based on what you’ve read in the previous books that he’s super flighty and self absorbed, but when you really get to know him, get to see what makes him tick and how dedicated he is to making up for his past transgressions, you slowly fall in love with him.
And Luke… I mean holy wow! Based on the previous books and those characters’ interactions with him, you expect quite a stern, hardened man who’s very gruff and emotionally stoic, but he’s really this big soft hearted teddy bear who wants nothing more than to do his best to save the school that helps so many children who’ve had trauma in their pasts heal and learn how to deal with the very tough things life can throw at you and prepare you to be the most successful and happiest person you can be. His past traumas break your heart but also the life he’s built for himself and his students and staff and the way they all love him says so much about him.
Nathan and Luke’s lives, both together and separate, have been difficult and seeing how they progress and heal with each other and from things that have happened to each other was a roller coaster of emotion that was 1000% worth reading and waiting for.
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Con’s writing, but I think she really outdid herself with this one. Charles’ story was amazing and he’s one of my favorite characters ever and I was glad to have seen so much of him and Hugo in this book, but something about Luke just drew me to him and made my heart melt for him. He’s so selfless and willing to do whatever it takes to not let his people down. He’s the type of person every one should aspire to be.
I’m going to stop rambling but I also recommend this book to everyone. I’m calling this book hands down one of the best reads of 2022 and it’s only the 5th of January. That’s how much I loved this book!
Luke and Nathan have a history, it’s not always a pleasant history, but it’s definitely an explosive one. Their chemistry is off the charts and some stuff went down between them in their past that you learn about slowly through out the story and the pacing is perfect.
Nathan is such a wonderful character. You think based on what you’ve read in the previous books that he’s super flighty and self absorbed, but when you really get to know him, get to see what makes him tick and how dedicated he is to making up for his past transgressions, you slowly fall in love with him.
And Luke… I mean holy wow! Based on the previous books and those characters’ interactions with him, you expect quite a stern, hardened man who’s very gruff and emotionally stoic, but he’s really this big soft hearted teddy bear who wants nothing more than to do his best to save the school that helps so many children who’ve had trauma in their pasts heal and learn how to deal with the very tough things life can throw at you and prepare you to be the most successful and happiest person you can be. His past traumas break your heart but also the life he’s built for himself and his students and staff and the way they all love him says so much about him.
Nathan and Luke’s lives, both together and separate, have been difficult and seeing how they progress and heal with each other and from things that have happened to each other was a roller coaster of emotion that was 1000% worth reading and waiting for.
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Con’s writing, but I think she really outdid herself with this one. Charles’ story was amazing and he’s one of my favorite characters ever and I was glad to have seen so much of him and Hugo in this book, but something about Luke just drew me to him and made my heart melt for him. He’s so selfless and willing to do whatever it takes to not let his people down. He’s the type of person every one should aspire to be.
I’m going to stop rambling but I also recommend this book to everyone. I’m calling this book hands down one of the best reads of 2022 and it’s only the 5th of January. That’s how much I loved this book!
March 27, 2023
*2nd read/listen*
Luke is absolutely the most incredible character to ever character. I adore him. His story is incredible. The writing is incredible. I want to live in his story forever.
One should also note that narrator Cornell Collins is perfection. Cornell as Luke…a dream come true!
*Original Review*
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Luke is the headmaster of a struggling school. He’s been fighting tooth and nail to keep it going, to give his students a place that truly cares about giving them the best start in life, not just in test scores. For a place where his teachers can do what they do best and have a home too, a place to belong. He’s fighting for everyone. What he’s missing is for Nathan, the man he’s loved his entire adult life, to fight for him. He’s carrying everyone’s weight on his shoulders, but what he needs is someone, his someone, to stand with him.
‘He ordered his soft heart to harden on the way up to his study. Stood by the mirror once the door closed behind him, telling his insides to match his outside for once - stern instead of squishy’
The story that ensues is a masterclass in storytelling. The characters are vibrant and layered. Though told from the single POV of Luke, you feel just as connected to Nathan. The story is both heart-shattering and heartwarming all at the same time. It tears you apart from the very start, only to put you back together again, feeling stronger in the end.
It tells the story, not just of love and romance, but that of forgiveness and healing, of finding strength in your worst moments. Of learning to lay down your hurts. Of trusting love.
‘“I didn’t run back to a place.” Nathan covered Luke’s hand over his key. “I ran back to my person”.’
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
Luke is absolutely the most incredible character to ever character. I adore him. His story is incredible. The writing is incredible. I want to live in his story forever.
One should also note that narrator Cornell Collins is perfection. Cornell as Luke…a dream come true!
*Original Review*
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Luke is the headmaster of a struggling school. He’s been fighting tooth and nail to keep it going, to give his students a place that truly cares about giving them the best start in life, not just in test scores. For a place where his teachers can do what they do best and have a home too, a place to belong. He’s fighting for everyone. What he’s missing is for Nathan, the man he’s loved his entire adult life, to fight for him. He’s carrying everyone’s weight on his shoulders, but what he needs is someone, his someone, to stand with him.
‘He ordered his soft heart to harden on the way up to his study. Stood by the mirror once the door closed behind him, telling his insides to match his outside for once - stern instead of squishy’
The story that ensues is a masterclass in storytelling. The characters are vibrant and layered. Though told from the single POV of Luke, you feel just as connected to Nathan. The story is both heart-shattering and heartwarming all at the same time. It tears you apart from the very start, only to put you back together again, feeling stronger in the end.
It tells the story, not just of love and romance, but that of forgiveness and healing, of finding strength in your worst moments. Of learning to lay down your hurts. Of trusting love.
‘“I didn’t run back to a place.” Nathan covered Luke’s hand over his key. “I ran back to my person”.’
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
February 28, 2022
So I started the year with what I know is going to be one of my favourites of 2022 - and we are are only on 2nd January!
Much as I love Charles and Hugo (and we see more of them here) I always knew that with Luke and Nathan the best was being saved for last in this series - although I now feel like we have to have Austin’s story too?!
This is not your typical friends to lovers or friends with benefits developing into more story, as it’s really clear from the start that there is lots of history and strong feelings between the characters, and despite Luke’s best efforts to put some distance between them, that they might both finally be in the right emotional space at the right time to have something special together. The way that comes about, with both characters trusting the other, was really beautiful to read and told in Con Riley’s usual - almost poetic - writing style.
We see the other characters in the series to varying levels - Hugo & Charles mostly, but also Sol and of course my current favourite child in books, the wonderful Tor. I have a couple of friends that are primary teachers and I can picture him when they tell us stories of their young pupil’s antics!
There is the obligatory bad guy - not who you think it will be, but ultimately this book solidifies the impression from earlier books that this school is somewhere special. I really loved Luke, his history and would have loved him to have been my headteacher. Roll on more stories in this world! Despite being my first book of 2022, I already know it will be one of my top reads this year.
Much as I love Charles and Hugo (and we see more of them here) I always knew that with Luke and Nathan the best was being saved for last in this series - although I now feel like we have to have Austin’s story too?!
This is not your typical friends to lovers or friends with benefits developing into more story, as it’s really clear from the start that there is lots of history and strong feelings between the characters, and despite Luke’s best efforts to put some distance between them, that they might both finally be in the right emotional space at the right time to have something special together. The way that comes about, with both characters trusting the other, was really beautiful to read and told in Con Riley’s usual - almost poetic - writing style.
We see the other characters in the series to varying levels - Hugo & Charles mostly, but also Sol and of course my current favourite child in books, the wonderful Tor. I have a couple of friends that are primary teachers and I can picture him when they tell us stories of their young pupil’s antics!
There is the obligatory bad guy - not who you think it will be, but ultimately this book solidifies the impression from earlier books that this school is somewhere special. I really loved Luke, his history and would have loved him to have been my headteacher. Roll on more stories in this world! Despite being my first book of 2022, I already know it will be one of my top reads this year.
February 24, 2022
I think I've made it very clear that Riley is one of my favorite authors. When I want a book that hits me right in the feelings, just feels full of romance (between the MCs, the setting, honestly just all of Riley's writing feels romantic to me), and is beautiful from start to finish. This book hurt so good at times, but while it definitely sends you through the wringer, you'll end up so satisfied with the HEAs that the MCs end up with. I loved Luke and Nathan, and their entire story. I always have a hard time reviewing Riley's books without just straight up gushing and repeating myself over and over, but just know I HIGHLY recommend this one.
April 7, 2024
Voto: 4.5
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELVINO 1831
In questo terzo volume della serie “Learning to Love” di Con Riley, conosciamo molto più da vicino li preside di Glynn Harber, Luke Lawson, un uomo che a prima vista può sembrare freddo e distaccato, ma che sotto quella scorza di algidità, cela in realtà un cuore grande e gentile che ama profondamente il suo lavoro e la sua scuola.
Al suo fianco ritroviamo Nathan Ridd ,suo primo e grande amore dai tempi dell’università.
I due, ai tempi, avevano avuto una breve relazione terminata dopo il rifiuto da parte di Nathan di portare Luke a casa sua per fargli conoscere la sua famiglia. Erano seguiti anni dove Luke aveva sempre tenuto lontano Nathan e fatto di tutto perché non si rincontrassero, poi vi era stato un riavvicinamento che aveva portato a degli incontri occasionali, incontri che ogni volta che si ripetevano lasciavano Luke sempre più insoddisfatto e ferito dall’atteggiamento distaccato e senza impegno di Nathan. Ora Luke sta lottando con quella che sembra una questione personale che riguarda la sua scuola e lui in quanto preside, più che una mera faccenda di affari, come se li gruppo proprietario dell’istituto volesse far sì che la scuola chiudesse.
A questo punto fa li suo ingresso Nathan, che questa volta sembra determinato a restare a lungo ed aiutare Luke, offrendogli non solo li suo lavoro come insegnante ma, soprattutto, li suo supporto, la sua vicinanza, il suo pieno sostegno e il suo conforto. E Luke, nonostante le insicurezze, i dubbi e i timori dovuti alla loto rottura e a quel vedersi solo per brevi incontri fisici che appagavano il corpo ma lasciavano vuota e ferita l’anima, imparerà a capire l’uomo di cui si è innamorato e cosa si cela dietro ai suoi atteggiamenti e alla sua paura nell’impegnarsi in una relazione stabile e duratura.
Continua sul nostro blog!
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELVINO 1831
In questo terzo volume della serie “Learning to Love” di Con Riley, conosciamo molto più da vicino li preside di Glynn Harber, Luke Lawson, un uomo che a prima vista può sembrare freddo e distaccato, ma che sotto quella scorza di algidità, cela in realtà un cuore grande e gentile che ama profondamente il suo lavoro e la sua scuola.
Al suo fianco ritroviamo Nathan Ridd ,suo primo e grande amore dai tempi dell’università.
I due, ai tempi, avevano avuto una breve relazione terminata dopo il rifiuto da parte di Nathan di portare Luke a casa sua per fargli conoscere la sua famiglia. Erano seguiti anni dove Luke aveva sempre tenuto lontano Nathan e fatto di tutto perché non si rincontrassero, poi vi era stato un riavvicinamento che aveva portato a degli incontri occasionali, incontri che ogni volta che si ripetevano lasciavano Luke sempre più insoddisfatto e ferito dall’atteggiamento distaccato e senza impegno di Nathan. Ora Luke sta lottando con quella che sembra una questione personale che riguarda la sua scuola e lui in quanto preside, più che una mera faccenda di affari, come se li gruppo proprietario dell’istituto volesse far sì che la scuola chiudesse.
A questo punto fa li suo ingresso Nathan, che questa volta sembra determinato a restare a lungo ed aiutare Luke, offrendogli non solo li suo lavoro come insegnante ma, soprattutto, li suo supporto, la sua vicinanza, il suo pieno sostegno e il suo conforto. E Luke, nonostante le insicurezze, i dubbi e i timori dovuti alla loto rottura e a quel vedersi solo per brevi incontri fisici che appagavano il corpo ma lasciavano vuota e ferita l’anima, imparerà a capire l’uomo di cui si è innamorato e cosa si cela dietro ai suoi atteggiamenti e alla sua paura nell’impegnarsi in una relazione stabile e duratura.
Continua sul nostro blog!
February 28, 2023
Of course Luke has a history with one guy, and one guy only. And of course that guy is going to show back up right when Luke both needs him the most and also can't handle dealing with the stress he brings. Luke determined to finally move on, but Nathan's finally saying he might actually stick around for once.
Oh boy were these two lovely. I felt for Luke and the history between these two was so clear. I wanted them to find their way back to each other. They both deserved so much happiness. I loved Luke and his interactions with Austin as well. It's the best thing to see Austin finding his feet and coming out of his crotchety numbers focused self.
This school has meant so much to so many, and Luke has given his everything to find a way to save it. It's great to finally have a reason as to why it's all happening. This series always rips my heart out, but yet at the end I'm left smiling and so happy for all of these guys.
Oh boy were these two lovely. I felt for Luke and the history between these two was so clear. I wanted them to find their way back to each other. They both deserved so much happiness. I loved Luke and his interactions with Austin as well. It's the best thing to see Austin finding his feet and coming out of his crotchety numbers focused self.
This school has meant so much to so many, and Luke has given his everything to find a way to save it. It's great to finally have a reason as to why it's all happening. This series always rips my heart out, but yet at the end I'm left smiling and so happy for all of these guys.
June 16, 2024
I loved this second chance romance between two university roommates who had a fling, broke up and went on different paths and then get together again 15 years later. The audiobook is also excellent! I've gone and bought all of them for the series now.
March 24, 2022
Can I go to Glynn Harber?
Seriously, I don’t know if a place like this really exists, but it sounds magical, with teachers who play and a headmaster who listens… but I digress. As charming as the school is, and it IS important to the story, the real focus is on Luke and Nathan, learning to trust and communicate after a rocky past. There were some emotional moments, and I found myself very invested in these two men who’d never gotten over each other. As always, it was beautifully written and I loved it!
Seriously, I don’t know if a place like this really exists, but it sounds magical, with teachers who play and a headmaster who listens… but I digress. As charming as the school is, and it IS important to the story, the real focus is on Luke and Nathan, learning to trust and communicate after a rocky past. There were some emotional moments, and I found myself very invested in these two men who’d never gotten over each other. As always, it was beautifully written and I loved it!
May 19, 2023
oh
I am going to think about Luke and Nathan for a long time
edited to add: the audio 💚
I am going to think about Luke and Nathan for a long time
edited to add: the audio 💚
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