What do you think?
Rate this book
From USA Today Bestselling Author Daryl Banner comes a steamy beach town opposites-attract romance with a surprise ending that will steal your heart.
When Quintin Ruiz’s classmate invites him down to Dreamwood Isle for the weekend, the last thing he wanted was to capture the attention of the beach town’s infamous “Heart Crusher” Adrian Tyler.
Pretty boys with eight-pack abs aren’t Quintin’s type.
Meanwhile, Adrian Tyler is tired of only being seen as a “pretty muscle boy” with a bad reputation for having new arm candy every weekend.
Besides, what’s he supposed to do when every young and willing guy in sight throws themselves at him?
So when Adrian crashes into the sensitive art student named Quintin, who instantly puts him in the “friend zone” and wants nothing romantic to do with him, Adrian is left feeling relieved.
And also very, very confused.
What starts as a totally platonic friendship turns into something more as the young men get to know one another, share each other’s dreams ...
And ultimately give in to their suppressed desires.
✔️ Opposites attract
✔️ Beach town vacation vibes
✔️ Major steam
When Quintin Ruiz’s classmate invites him down to Dreamwood Isle for the weekend, the last thing he wanted was to capture the attention of the beach town’s infamous “Heart Crusher” Adrian Tyler.
Pretty boys with eight-pack abs aren’t Quintin’s type.
Meanwhile, Adrian Tyler is tired of only being seen as a “pretty muscle boy” with a bad reputation for having new arm candy every weekend.
Besides, what’s he supposed to do when every young and willing guy in sight throws themselves at him?
So when Adrian crashes into the sensitive art student named Quintin, who instantly puts him in the “friend zone” and wants nothing romantic to do with him, Adrian is left feeling relieved.
And also very, very confused.
What starts as a totally platonic friendship turns into something more as the young men get to know one another, share each other’s dreams ...
And ultimately give in to their suppressed desires.
✔️ Opposites attract
✔️ Beach town vacation vibes
✔️ Major steam
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2022
155 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
Daryl Banner
97 books2,002 followersDaryl Banner is a USA Today Bestselling author, composer, and performer. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston Honors College with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. He is happily married to his piano. Theory suggests this is why he writes romance.
During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.
Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
https://www.darylbanner.com/subscribe...
Follow him on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/author/darylba...
Like him on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DarylBannerW...
Connect with fellow readers in Daryl's Doorway:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Daryl...
Fun facts about Daryl Banner:
- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.
- He is a huge video game enthusiast.
- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.
- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner
- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com
During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.
Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
https://www.darylbanner.com/subscribe...
Follow him on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/author/darylba...
Like him on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DarylBannerW...
Connect with fellow readers in Daryl's Doorway:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Daryl...
Fun facts about Daryl Banner:
- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.
- He is a huge video game enthusiast.
- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.
- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner
- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
dropped
September 28, 2023***no rating***
dnf @10%
It’s safe to say that I was hesitant to pick this one up to begin with seeing the author is narrating this book himself. (okay and I waited like forever for it to get whispersynced!!)
Aaaaand... I was right to be. I was actually pretty excited for Adrian’s story after book #1 (narrated by someone else) but Daryl almost put me to sleep here. While his voice is nice to listen to and he should know his characters best, a voice-actor he is not. Not yet, anyway. There was very little intonation to his reading and even less distinction to the voices of the different characters.
Not sure I’ll ever pick up this audio again to finish this. More likely the ebook, tho.
************
A Texas Beach Town Romance Series
Book 1 - In Too Deep - 3.75 stars
Book 2 - Crusher - dropped
Book 3 - Far From Paradise
dnf @10%
It’s safe to say that I was hesitant to pick this one up to begin with seeing the author is narrating this book himself. (okay and I waited like forever for it to get whispersynced!!)
Aaaaand... I was right to be. I was actually pretty excited for Adrian’s story after book #1 (narrated by someone else) but Daryl almost put me to sleep here. While his voice is nice to listen to and he should know his characters best, a voice-actor he is not. Not yet, anyway. There was very little intonation to his reading and even less distinction to the voices of the different characters.
Not sure I’ll ever pick up this audio again to finish this. More likely the ebook, tho.
************
A Texas Beach Town Romance Series
Book 1 - In Too Deep - 3.75 stars
Book 2 - Crusher - dropped
Book 3 - Far From Paradise
October 19, 2022
Ok, Daryl Banner is now definitely on my list of one click authors. Every single book I've read so far just makes my heart feel happy 😊 Minimal angst, Texan boys 🥵 and sweet stories 🥰
August 8, 2022
My new favorite from Daryl Banner!
Crusher was so sweet, and more emotional than I expected. Quin is just so precious and I loved how caring Adrian was towards him. They were exactly what the other needed in life!
"We have a ton of different roles we can fulfill in life. Big ones, tiny ones. So muc of life is just throwing a bottled-up wish into the ocean and seeing which shore it washes up on."
Crusher was so sweet, and more emotional than I expected. Quin is just so precious and I loved how caring Adrian was towards him. They were exactly what the other needed in life!
"We have a ton of different roles we can fulfill in life. Big ones, tiny ones. So muc of life is just throwing a bottled-up wish into the ocean and seeing which shore it washes up on."
September 19, 2022
All the stars for Adrian's redemption. Full review to come.
August 12, 2022
This was a very cute and sweet insta-love story, mainly because of Quintin. Adrian was a little harder to wrap my head around and, even with his POV, I found that he had very little personality. I must be having an off week because this is the second book in a row that I've had a hard time connecting to. It makes me think it's me and not the books I'm reading. I read a book earlier in the week that must have broken my brain and now I'm looking for angst in the bright corners of incredibly light and fluffy books, which we all know is a recipe for disappointment.
On a positive note, the first kiss in this book was absolute perfection.😍
On a positive note, the first kiss in this book was absolute perfection.😍
August 2, 2022
Return to the beach in Dreamwood Isle where the boys of summer are all so very steamy and fun. Adrian seems to have it all...I mean he is absolutely beautiful so what else could he need besides his looks. We soon find out that he wants more but how to find and get that more is elusive to him. Quintin knows what he loves...art but important people in his life can't seem to help throwing up roadblocks. What does his future hold? Which road should he take. A trip to the beach seems relaxing, maybe he can find his muse. He finds way more than he expected in this seaside town. Some great banter between all of our boys, some deep introspection, and some steamy interactions made this a great summer read for me.
August 5, 2022
We head back to dreamwood Isle for book 2...Adrian's story.
This is kinda insta love with some angst thrown in. Dreamwood with its characters and it's magic allows love to win again!
Adrian and Quintin get there HEA but not without doubts and drama.
This is kinda insta love with some angst thrown in. Dreamwood with its characters and it's magic allows love to win again!
Adrian and Quintin get there HEA but not without doubts and drama.
August 3, 2022
I want to escape to Dreamwood Isle right this minute. The picture that Daryl Banner paints of this beautiful resort town is enticing for anyone. I totally lost myself into this book. I felt completely immersed in the story for Quintin and Adrian. I can totally relate to Quintin trying to follow dreams of being an artist and having parents who disagree with those choices. It’s tough, but in my case it was music instead of art. I loved getting tons of updates on characters from three other books from Daryl Banner. I love how artistically Daryl Banner can tie together characters from different backgrounds and have it make so much sense. Now I’m just imaging and hoping on who the next book in this series will center around. I want more!! Love it.
March 29, 2023
Sometimes, life likes to move in quick, sudden bursts, and then you don’t recognize anything anymore.
And you couldn’t be happier about it.
This quote pretty much sums up this sentimental romp in the beach town of Dreamwood Isle, where even the sand seems gay . . . but I learned an alliterative euphemism for what happens after eating Mexican:
Butt bombs!
TMI?
And you couldn’t be happier about it.
This quote pretty much sums up this sentimental romp in the beach town of Dreamwood Isle, where even the sand seems gay . . . but I learned an alliterative euphemism for what happens after eating Mexican:
Butt bombs!
TMI?
August 2, 2022
**I was given a free copy of this book by the author to read and review.**
CRUSHER is the second book in A Texas Beach Town Romance series. It can be read as a stand alone but reads better if you read the series in the order the author has intended.
We return to the little beach town, Dreamwood Isle, where Adrian for the most part loves the life he's living minus the drama he has within his family. He loves working as a waiter using his charm and cute smile for great tips. Until he wants people to see he's more than the "heart crusher" label he has around town. Quintin is in town to find his spark he's missing in his art. He loves making art but his professor and father want more for him. Quintin finds his muse but can he actually have it all, is that even possible? Can Adrian let his walls down for love and prove to everyone he's more than his good looks?
First off I love this little beach town, the characters in this town are everything!! The chemistry between Adrian and Quin wasn't immediate but grew the more they got to know each other. Their love was quick but deeper than you'd think possible for the short time they knew each other. They were both looking for something and found they needed each other to survive.
I can't wait for more!!!
CRUSHER is the second book in A Texas Beach Town Romance series. It can be read as a stand alone but reads better if you read the series in the order the author has intended.
We return to the little beach town, Dreamwood Isle, where Adrian for the most part loves the life he's living minus the drama he has within his family. He loves working as a waiter using his charm and cute smile for great tips. Until he wants people to see he's more than the "heart crusher" label he has around town. Quintin is in town to find his spark he's missing in his art. He loves making art but his professor and father want more for him. Quintin finds his muse but can he actually have it all, is that even possible? Can Adrian let his walls down for love and prove to everyone he's more than his good looks?
First off I love this little beach town, the characters in this town are everything!! The chemistry between Adrian and Quin wasn't immediate but grew the more they got to know each other. Their love was quick but deeper than you'd think possible for the short time they knew each other. They were both looking for something and found they needed each other to survive.
I can't wait for more!!!
August 5, 2022
I really enjoyed Crusher, this was my first book by Daryl Banner and I will definitely be looking for more of his work.
I loved Quintin, he was such a genuinely nice guy who felt the loss of his brother and the expectations of his family deeply, add in his belief that maybe he isn't cut out to be an artist after all and you have a guy who needs a break.
Adrian was also a lovely guy, afraid of love and with a reputation that isn't completely deserved, he's starting to take a look at who he is and where he is heading.
I loved the first meeting between Quintin and Adrian and every interaction from then on hooked me in and had me hoping that these two could really make a go of things, if only they could get past all of their own problems.
A book full of heart, I really enjoyed this read.
I loved Quintin, he was such a genuinely nice guy who felt the loss of his brother and the expectations of his family deeply, add in his belief that maybe he isn't cut out to be an artist after all and you have a guy who needs a break.
Adrian was also a lovely guy, afraid of love and with a reputation that isn't completely deserved, he's starting to take a look at who he is and where he is heading.
I loved the first meeting between Quintin and Adrian and every interaction from then on hooked me in and had me hoping that these two could really make a go of things, if only they could get past all of their own problems.
A book full of heart, I really enjoyed this read.
August 9, 2022
Another masterpiece from the romantic mind of Daryl. This book was a dream come true for me, it had the hot muscle jock and the geeky artist (of which I can completely relate to) falling for each other in the most unexpected way. It’s something that I’ve always dreamed of and wished would happen to me. The characters are so well developed and the story defined and captivating. If I didn’t have to work I think I would have read the book in two days. Simply couldn’t put it down.
Daryl brings depth to Adrian that is so unexpected but we all knew he had from the first book. Quintin is the adorable, struggling artist that brings a spark and spunk to the beach town hunk that had my heart wanting more and more.
I seriously can’t say enough about this book, I think besides all the Spruce books this one is probably my favorite! Amazing story, incredible hot men and once again Daryl hits it out of the park with this one.
I swear I need Spruce Texas just so I can travel to Dreamwood Isle and find my very own Crusher. Highly highly recommended!
Daryl brings depth to Adrian that is so unexpected but we all knew he had from the first book. Quintin is the adorable, struggling artist that brings a spark and spunk to the beach town hunk that had my heart wanting more and more.
I seriously can’t say enough about this book, I think besides all the Spruce books this one is probably my favorite! Amazing story, incredible hot men and once again Daryl hits it out of the park with this one.
I swear I need Spruce Texas just so I can travel to Dreamwood Isle and find my very own Crusher. Highly highly recommended!
August 5, 2022
So I’ve read a couple of Daryl Banners books now and I have loved every one of them. And this one is just as good.
Dreamwood isle is a beautiful little area and whilst yes it’s completely fictional Daryls world building gives you the sense that you are actually there too.
Quinton seems to have lost his spark for art and so his good friend Vann invites him to stay with him and his partner just over the causeway to try and find it again.
Adrien is a gorgeous man who has it all…. But does he really? One conversation with his brother has him questioning just what it is he has to offer.
These two meet and it’s beautiful to watch them grow together and become the men they are meant to be I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be going back and reading the first in the series.
Dreamwood isle is a beautiful little area and whilst yes it’s completely fictional Daryls world building gives you the sense that you are actually there too.
Quinton seems to have lost his spark for art and so his good friend Vann invites him to stay with him and his partner just over the causeway to try and find it again.
Adrien is a gorgeous man who has it all…. But does he really? One conversation with his brother has him questioning just what it is he has to offer.
These two meet and it’s beautiful to watch them grow together and become the men they are meant to be I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be going back and reading the first in the series.
August 4, 2022
I really loved this book. I loved these boys. I think they are my favorite couple!! I loved their interaction. They seem like people I want to be friends with. I think we need to see the art work discussed in this book. There so much more I want to gush about but I don't want to give away any spoilers.
It is a 2nd boon in a series but you do not need to read the prevous one before diving into this one. But if you havent read the previous one do yourself a favor and go read it.
It is a 2nd boon in a series but you do not need to read the prevous one before diving into this one. But if you havent read the previous one do yourself a favor and go read it.
August 3, 2022
Dreamwood Isle is a beautiful resort town where Quintin went to find more of his art…
As an art student, he needed to “feel” the art that he was to paint…
He did!
Adrian lived in Dreamwood, his family long-time residents.
Quintin and Adrian met, they talked, they decided they weren’t each other’s sort but perhaps things can change.
This book is wonderfully written, with the main characters and the secondary characters leaving a mark on my soul.
As an art student, he needed to “feel” the art that he was to paint…
He did!
Adrian lived in Dreamwood, his family long-time residents.
Quintin and Adrian met, they talked, they decided they weren’t each other’s sort but perhaps things can change.
This book is wonderfully written, with the main characters and the secondary characters leaving a mark on my soul.
August 2, 2022
Quintin and Adrian find each other at a time in their lives when they need what the other has to offer. Their story is life altering for them both. Quintin makes a major decision that may not set well with some. But that what part of being a young adult is about. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
August 4, 2022
Love this Beantown
Love these friends
Quin and Adrian's intense emotional heartstopping insta love story
All the feels
Cant wait for more
Love these friends
Quin and Adrian's intense emotional heartstopping insta love story
All the feels
Cant wait for more
August 19, 2022
Another amazing story by Daryl! In fact, I think this is his best to date! I love the little beach town this series takes place in and wish I was there myself! Quintin and Adrian are so fantastic, both on their own and together. The emotion and humor in this story make this a wonderful read with lovable characters. I inhaled it!! Go one click!
An arc was provided for an honest review.
An arc was provided for an honest review.
August 5, 2022
I adore Quin and Adrian together. Two men who are misrepresented by labels others have laid. This is a sweet, sexy story about two guys who see in each other what others fail to see. They accept each other for who they are. Adrian is the nurturer and the way he takes care of Quin is swoon worthy. Sometimes the stars align and you find true love and happiness when you least expect it.
August 6, 2022
***I received an advanced copy of Crusher from the author***
This w my first book from the Beach Series. It was a great read, it gave me all the feels. Adrian and Quin’s love story is very relatable and the family matters that they go through is heart-felt and well written. Definitely a MUST read for all!
This w my first book from the Beach Series. It was a great read, it gave me all the feels. Adrian and Quin’s love story is very relatable and the family matters that they go through is heart-felt and well written. Definitely a MUST read for all!
November 22, 2022
Sweet and full of Banner's usual humorous touches, Crusher follows Adrian and Quin through a rather quick relationship, with lots of walks on the beach and musings on the meaning of art and what art can teach us about our place in the world. Low angst but enough tension in spots to make it interesting. I love Banner's Texas and only wish the real one was as wonderful and free of hate.
August 9, 2022
3.5 stars
This was such a sweet romance that gave me all the feels while reading. This was just a super cute and enjoyable reading experisnce for me.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
This was such a sweet romance that gave me all the feels while reading. This was just a super cute and enjoyable reading experisnce for me.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
August 4, 2022
Crusher is truly wonderful. Daryl Banner has clearly upped his writing game once more with this great beach/pool read that is heartfelt and full of love. The opposites attract trope is a favorite of mine and the first meeting between Adrian Tyler and Quin Ruiz is full of fire and wit. As they find themselves both kind of miserable at a pajamas-only type of party, their subtle and immediate disdain for one another is quickly alleviated as they share thoughts and feelings like they were long-lost friends. Their chemistry, as time goes on is more than obvious to everyone but them and I couldn't wait until they both realized they had found in the other what they weren't even looking for.
This book is much more than I thought it would be. There are so many wonderful moments of emotion as Adrian and Quin become great companions and confidantes when their lives always seem to be in turmoil. Quin has his own issues after his beloved brother Angel's death seems to remain a tough topic for him and his parents. But I loved that he kept his brother's spirit alive in his exquisite paintings, no matter what his somewhat stodgy professor thought. And then there is Adrian, the presumed heart crusher of Dreamwood Isle. He pretends to be the manwhore he is not, often feeling as if love will never find him since his own parents' relationship is flawed beyond belief. That it's easier to simply allow others to think what they want, even when he is the farthest thing from being that guy.
When Adrian and Quin are together, however, all of their fears are somehow put on the back burner until they naturally would have to come to a head and I just knew that when that time came to finally decide what they both wanted from each other and out of life, they'd find a way to make it work. But I'll tell ya, it wasn't always an easy road and again, the number of feels this book brought out in me was incredible. I felt every single hesitation and assumed misspoken thought but even after just a few weeks, I really could feel the devotion that Adrian and Quin had for each other. They were meant to be, even when they thought the other wasn't their type.
This entire Dreamwood Isle crew, some of who were from the Spruce series, add just the right touch when needed and the support for both Adrian and Quin no questions asked. In fact, I loved the dynamic between Adrian and his brother Kent, watching as they put to rest some of the animosity that has plagued them for years. And a particularly sincere scene towards the end of the book between Quin and his Dad was absolutely beautiful and had me tearing up like a fool.
This series is both sexy and sweet. Passionate and feisty. There is that signature Banner wit that I have come to appreciate and it clearly helps out our men when things aren't going their way. Add to that, the truly intense moments as Adrian and Quin fall head over heels for each other, in and out of the bedroom and you have the best kind of read for a lazy summer's day.
I couldn't love Crusher more if I tried and I happily give this book a huge 5 stars!
This book is much more than I thought it would be. There are so many wonderful moments of emotion as Adrian and Quin become great companions and confidantes when their lives always seem to be in turmoil. Quin has his own issues after his beloved brother Angel's death seems to remain a tough topic for him and his parents. But I loved that he kept his brother's spirit alive in his exquisite paintings, no matter what his somewhat stodgy professor thought. And then there is Adrian, the presumed heart crusher of Dreamwood Isle. He pretends to be the manwhore he is not, often feeling as if love will never find him since his own parents' relationship is flawed beyond belief. That it's easier to simply allow others to think what they want, even when he is the farthest thing from being that guy.
When Adrian and Quin are together, however, all of their fears are somehow put on the back burner until they naturally would have to come to a head and I just knew that when that time came to finally decide what they both wanted from each other and out of life, they'd find a way to make it work. But I'll tell ya, it wasn't always an easy road and again, the number of feels this book brought out in me was incredible. I felt every single hesitation and assumed misspoken thought but even after just a few weeks, I really could feel the devotion that Adrian and Quin had for each other. They were meant to be, even when they thought the other wasn't their type.
This entire Dreamwood Isle crew, some of who were from the Spruce series, add just the right touch when needed and the support for both Adrian and Quin no questions asked. In fact, I loved the dynamic between Adrian and his brother Kent, watching as they put to rest some of the animosity that has plagued them for years. And a particularly sincere scene towards the end of the book between Quin and his Dad was absolutely beautiful and had me tearing up like a fool.
This series is both sexy and sweet. Passionate and feisty. There is that signature Banner wit that I have come to appreciate and it clearly helps out our men when things aren't going their way. Add to that, the truly intense moments as Adrian and Quin fall head over heels for each other, in and out of the bedroom and you have the best kind of read for a lazy summer's day.
I couldn't love Crusher more if I tried and I happily give this book a huge 5 stars!
August 6, 2022
From the moment I started reading this book I found a story with surprising depth, a story that is more than just opposites attracting. With each turn of the page this story became an empowering read, a tale of growing up and deciding what you want...along with the strength to go after what your heart truly desires. This story may start out in a familiar way but once Adrian and Quintin meet they forge a supportive friendship that soon becomes something more. Along the way are heartfelt talks, emotional exchanges dealing with the past, all while forging a connection that made me smile while I was rooting for these two men to find themselves.
Adrian's seen by everyone as the pretty boy of the town, someone who gets by on his good looks. To those around him he's fun and carefree, living a life without worries. Beyond the pretty package though is a young man who wants more but who doesn't know how to get what's truly missing from his life. Quintin's an artist with a past event that has dimmed his muse. To find his mojo he heads to the beach and once there meets a man who will change his life irrevocably. The moment these two apparent opposites meet things take a sweet and sensual turn. These two become a strong support for each other, sharing things they can't share with others in a journey of empowerment that's a bit rocky at times. Though these two start off as friends it's clear they're meant to be more. The attraction between them sizzles with fun and flirty banter before taking a more emotional turn that had me fully invested in their future...both as a couple and as individuals.
Along with the appealing main couple was a cast of secondary characters who readers of this series have seen before. These characters felt like family, a strong and unwavering support to Adrian and Quintin, and I plan to go back to read their stories as they called to me. While much about this book is familiar there's still something about this book that sets it apart. It's the perfect summer read, giving readers a romance with raw emotions and sweet and sexy exchanges. It's a quick read that ran the gamut of emotions and introduced me to a new-to-me author who I look forward to reading more of in the future.
Adrian's seen by everyone as the pretty boy of the town, someone who gets by on his good looks. To those around him he's fun and carefree, living a life without worries. Beyond the pretty package though is a young man who wants more but who doesn't know how to get what's truly missing from his life. Quintin's an artist with a past event that has dimmed his muse. To find his mojo he heads to the beach and once there meets a man who will change his life irrevocably. The moment these two apparent opposites meet things take a sweet and sensual turn. These two become a strong support for each other, sharing things they can't share with others in a journey of empowerment that's a bit rocky at times. Though these two start off as friends it's clear they're meant to be more. The attraction between them sizzles with fun and flirty banter before taking a more emotional turn that had me fully invested in their future...both as a couple and as individuals.
Along with the appealing main couple was a cast of secondary characters who readers of this series have seen before. These characters felt like family, a strong and unwavering support to Adrian and Quintin, and I plan to go back to read their stories as they called to me. While much about this book is familiar there's still something about this book that sets it apart. It's the perfect summer read, giving readers a romance with raw emotions and sweet and sexy exchanges. It's a quick read that ran the gamut of emotions and introduced me to a new-to-me author who I look forward to reading more of in the future.
August 23, 2024
I've read all of Daryl Banner's Spruce Texas Romance series, and I'm two-thirds the way through his Texas Beach Town Romance series. His writing and compelling stories are the stuff romance stories should be; fun to read, great characters, and a Happy Ever After.
In most cases, the characters are developed as part of the narrative of the story, as it is told by that character or those whom have come in contact with them. Their families, their community and their passions come to play as if you were talking with friends about these guys.
There is an exception in this case, the character of Crusher, known for teasing beach visitors, having relations with them, and then their hearts are crushed when they are dumped; hence the nickname for Adrian, our lead character in this episode from Dreamwood Isle. He meets Quintin who was invited to the island by a fellow student as inspiration for his art project, and rejects any overtures from Adrian the Crusher for a one-night stand or relations at all.
But the power of their character and commonality, bring them together. The great banter written by Daryl Banner is used to advance a non-sexual relationship that grows into more.
This book has a HEA not however without some angst, but it's low key, separations to ensure the end relationship is achieved, and it brings together purpose and drive centered around two fathers, one who left his family and the other who projects his dead son onto his remaining son hoping to achieve the dream lost with the death of his son.
I'm off to the third book... and I'll likely try some of his one off adventures.
In most cases, the characters are developed as part of the narrative of the story, as it is told by that character or those whom have come in contact with them. Their families, their community and their passions come to play as if you were talking with friends about these guys.
There is an exception in this case, the character of Crusher, known for teasing beach visitors, having relations with them, and then their hearts are crushed when they are dumped; hence the nickname for Adrian, our lead character in this episode from Dreamwood Isle. He meets Quintin who was invited to the island by a fellow student as inspiration for his art project, and rejects any overtures from Adrian the Crusher for a one-night stand or relations at all.
But the power of their character and commonality, bring them together. The great banter written by Daryl Banner is used to advance a non-sexual relationship that grows into more.
This book has a HEA not however without some angst, but it's low key, separations to ensure the end relationship is achieved, and it brings together purpose and drive centered around two fathers, one who left his family and the other who projects his dead son onto his remaining son hoping to achieve the dream lost with the death of his son.
I'm off to the third book... and I'll likely try some of his one off adventures.
April 14, 2023
Meh. This was a case of tried too hard and came across totally artificial. Characters were relatively uninteresting and forced. For example, 25 year old Adrian is repeatedly described as "Crusher," Dreamwood's hottest bachelor, a heart breaker who will date a guy Friday night, and lose interest by Sunday night, thus crushing the other guy's heart. Then in the opening chapters, he seems to be shook when several of his friends call him out on this. Then later on he ruminates (and I paraphrase) "yeah, my dad left when I was a kid, that's why I don't let anyone in or date." I didn't buy this at all.
Then on the other hand, Quinton is pretty passive at times- he won't have a conversation with his dad about his future, so he's dodging all calls. Then he says guys who are built (like Adrian) aren't his type at all. Yet on first sight, he's ogling Adrian and obsessing on how well built he is before he even gets to talk to him. Yeah, I didn't buy this either.
The animosity towards other characters (on all ends) was very contrived, and so was pretty much everything else.
One star, do not recommend.
Then on the other hand, Quinton is pretty passive at times- he won't have a conversation with his dad about his future, so he's dodging all calls. Then he says guys who are built (like Adrian) aren't his type at all. Yet on first sight, he's ogling Adrian and obsessing on how well built he is before he even gets to talk to him. Yeah, I didn't buy this either.
The animosity towards other characters (on all ends) was very contrived, and so was pretty much everything else.
One star, do not recommend.
August 8, 2022
*Recived an arc in return for my honest review*
If you're looking for a book filled with sweet love to heal your heart then look no further this one has it in tons!
I loved Adrian from the start. His character beautifully shows that the people whom we seem to think have always had it easy have been fighting their own demons all the while.
And Quintin! He was so relatable and watching him go from someone who's trying to please everyone to someone who believes in his own strength was really amazing!
And their chemistry ahhh!! I loved how it was filled with sweet moments without being too much and it was pretty fast paced too which I really liked.
This was my first ever read by this author so I went into this blind and after reading just a few pages I was feeling so glad that I signed up for this arc! To say that I'll be checking out the first book in this series and all the other series by this author would be an understatement.
If you're looking for a book filled with sweet love to heal your heart then look no further this one has it in tons!
I loved Adrian from the start. His character beautifully shows that the people whom we seem to think have always had it easy have been fighting their own demons all the while.
And Quintin! He was so relatable and watching him go from someone who's trying to please everyone to someone who believes in his own strength was really amazing!
And their chemistry ahhh!! I loved how it was filled with sweet moments without being too much and it was pretty fast paced too which I really liked.
This was my first ever read by this author so I went into this blind and after reading just a few pages I was feeling so glad that I signed up for this arc! To say that I'll be checking out the first book in this series and all the other series by this author would be an understatement.
August 20, 2022
I liked this better than book 1. I still haven’t read the Spruce, Texas series book that Toby and Vann are in, but I didn’t feel like I missed out except I wasn’t familiar with Toby’s bestie Kelsey and she is in this as a side character. I’m not sure if she is in or how pivotal she is in their book. I didn’t really get why she was there, maybe more detail needed.
This is a good story. Didn’t really add any update or anything for Kent and Jonah fyi.
I do hope there is a third book. I can assume it would be Skipper’s but he is only 18 in this one. He’s legal but young.
I really dislike how Adrian, Kent, and Skipper’s mom is written. She is a mess, how does she function? And everyone wants to know why their dad and older brother left, well the moms character isnt helping.
Side note - am I the only one who really wanted to know how Quintin’s brother died?! I just want to know, like really need to know. Why wasn’t it stated?
This is a good story. Didn’t really add any update or anything for Kent and Jonah fyi.
I do hope there is a third book. I can assume it would be Skipper’s but he is only 18 in this one. He’s legal but young.
I really dislike how Adrian, Kent, and Skipper’s mom is written. She is a mess, how does she function? And everyone wants to know why their dad and older brother left, well the moms character isnt helping.
Side note - am I the only one who really wanted to know how Quintin’s brother died?! I just want to know, like really need to know. Why wasn’t it stated?
December 28, 2022
sexy crush
I love the themes in this book that people are more complicated than what meets the eye and no one is the sum of other’s opinions. Sometimes it takes just one person seeing you differently to expose your true potential.
On the surface this book is about stereotypes but it’s much deeper. Adrian knows he has a reputation and he’s embraced it. But when his friend suggests that his looks make his life easier he’s resentful. He begins to wonder if people see him as a two dimensional person and his looks are the only thing people see (and care about).
Quin is a budding artist grappling with grief and the unfulfilled expectations of his brother’s life. He’s drowning in self doubt.
Adrian and Quin are strangers with zero preconceived notions about each other. It’s refreshing for both of them. They see each other not only as who they are now but the potential of who they can be. And isn’t that what we all want? Someone to see into the core of us, our soul and believe in our unrealized potential. That’s true love.
I love the themes in this book that people are more complicated than what meets the eye and no one is the sum of other’s opinions. Sometimes it takes just one person seeing you differently to expose your true potential.
On the surface this book is about stereotypes but it’s much deeper. Adrian knows he has a reputation and he’s embraced it. But when his friend suggests that his looks make his life easier he’s resentful. He begins to wonder if people see him as a two dimensional person and his looks are the only thing people see (and care about).
Quin is a budding artist grappling with grief and the unfulfilled expectations of his brother’s life. He’s drowning in self doubt.
Adrian and Quin are strangers with zero preconceived notions about each other. It’s refreshing for both of them. They see each other not only as who they are now but the potential of who they can be. And isn’t that what we all want? Someone to see into the core of us, our soul and believe in our unrealized potential. That’s true love.
August 7, 2023
Not gonna lie, for as big a slut of a personality Adrian is, I was disappointed in the follow through of his story.
There wasn't enough meat from A to B. I would have been happy with another 50 pages minimum where the Quin family dinner, more on them falling in love, more of Quin and his art projects, more sex as it was a really dry especially for Adrian.
On a spur of the moment trip to get inspiration for a project, Quin ends up in Dreamwood. First night at a party, he meets Adrian and quickly de-robs him. Antics and denial assume. Adrian, hating his reputation and judgment of being a play boy but not wanting to get his heart broken. Quin, afraid to look outside his safe zone but still wanting to please everyone. It was an ok plot. It just didn't have enough.
Vann and Toby appear a lot in this one. Kent also comes in and out with the rest of the family.
***70th book read in 2023
There wasn't enough meat from A to B. I would have been happy with another 50 pages minimum where the Quin family dinner, more on them falling in love, more of Quin and his art projects, more sex as it was a really dry especially for Adrian.
On a spur of the moment trip to get inspiration for a project, Quin ends up in Dreamwood. First night at a party, he meets Adrian and quickly de-robs him. Antics and denial assume. Adrian, hating his reputation and judgment of being a play boy but not wanting to get his heart broken. Quin, afraid to look outside his safe zone but still wanting to please everyone. It was an ok plot. It just didn't have enough.
Vann and Toby appear a lot in this one. Kent also comes in and out with the rest of the family.
***70th book read in 2023
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews