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Badges of the Bayou #1
Gotta Be Bayou
How do you get over a woman you never should have been, ahem, under in the first place?
Just when FBI special agent Spencer Landry had decided to forget about investigative journalist Maxine — Max — Keller and their one hot night together, there's a threat made against her and Spencer's protective instincts get all riled up. Again.
So now they're shacking up on the Louisiana bayou and pretending to be in love so he can keep Max safe until the guy is apprehended.
Considering their chemistry and that he cannot stop thinking about the gorgeous-and-doesn't-know-it, smart-mouthed, bold-and-yet-vulnerable redhead, this could be a fun few days, right?
Nope. She's all wrong for him.
And she hasn't forgotten he can be kind of a jerk.
Sure, the naked-times are great, but he told her exactly what he wants — a bubbly, sweet school teacher who bakes him brownies and loves to cuddle — and Max ain't it.
Max not only doesn't bake, no one has ever called her sweet. And cuddling? Shudder.
Plus his bossiness is super annoying for someone who's been taking care of herself all her life. But now they're stuck together and dammit, besides being hot and very good with his mouth, Spencer is pretty irresistible with baby goats, little kids, and attempts at baking. And don't forget alpha-protective. All of which makes her stomach feel very swoop-y. No wonder her clothes keep falling off.
But this is a temporary situation and they're only faking it. So falling for the guy is a terrible idea.
She really should have kept that in mind.
Just when FBI special agent Spencer Landry had decided to forget about investigative journalist Maxine — Max — Keller and their one hot night together, there's a threat made against her and Spencer's protective instincts get all riled up. Again.
So now they're shacking up on the Louisiana bayou and pretending to be in love so he can keep Max safe until the guy is apprehended.
Considering their chemistry and that he cannot stop thinking about the gorgeous-and-doesn't-know-it, smart-mouthed, bold-and-yet-vulnerable redhead, this could be a fun few days, right?
Nope. She's all wrong for him.
And she hasn't forgotten he can be kind of a jerk.
Sure, the naked-times are great, but he told her exactly what he wants — a bubbly, sweet school teacher who bakes him brownies and loves to cuddle — and Max ain't it.
Max not only doesn't bake, no one has ever called her sweet. And cuddling? Shudder.
Plus his bossiness is super annoying for someone who's been taking care of herself all her life. But now they're stuck together and dammit, besides being hot and very good with his mouth, Spencer is pretty irresistible with baby goats, little kids, and attempts at baking. And don't forget alpha-protective. All of which makes her stomach feel very swoop-y. No wonder her clothes keep falling off.
But this is a temporary situation and they're only faking it. So falling for the guy is a terrible idea.
She really should have kept that in mind.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 13, 2022
853 people are currently reading
3108 people want to read
About the author
Erin Nicholas
151 books3,816 followersErin Nicholas is the New York Times bestselling author of over sixty sexy contemporary romances. Her stories have been described as toe-curling, enchanting, steamy and fun.
She lives in the Midwest with her husband who only wants to read the sex scenes in her books, her kids who will never read the sex scenes in her books, and family and friends who say they’re shocked by the sex scenes in her books (yeah, right!).
You can find Erin on the web at www.ErinNicholas.com, on Instagram at ErinNicholasBooks, Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ErinNicholas... and on BookBub at https://www.bookbub.com/profile/erin-...
She lives in the Midwest with her husband who only wants to read the sex scenes in her books, her kids who will never read the sex scenes in her books, and family and friends who say they’re shocked by the sex scenes in her books (yeah, right!).
You can find Erin on the web at www.ErinNicholas.com, on Instagram at ErinNicholasBooks, Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ErinNicholas... and on BookBub at https://www.bookbub.com/profile/erin-...
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September 4, 2022I'm so happy to be back in Autre!
Yes, this is a new series.
Yes, there are new people to get to know (like the big, protective, sexy "badges" that keep the bayou safe! Not sorry ;) ).
These stories have a little more emotion and some "intrigue" (but come on, this is an Erin Nicholas series so we're not talking deep darkness and intense danger here! No worries! lol) but they've also got everything you love about my bayou world! Like Autre, goat shenanigans, and Landrys! :)
Spencer and Max were so much fun! I literally loved every day I got to sit down and write this book!
I LOVE grumpy sunshine romances-- reading and writing them-- and this one was especially fun because we had a twist... SHE is more of a grump than he is ;)
Well, he gets plenty grumpy when some creep threatens the woman who, despite his best efforts, Spencer is falling for. But when it comes to taking care of Max, he's allllll cinnamon-roll-y!
I hope you're excited for this next trip to the bayou! Get ready for yummy chicken enchiladas...well, no scratch that. But we have delicious brownies...okay, no, not that either. But there's definitely a bunch of laughs and tons of swoon and lots of fun!
Ellie and the gang can't wait to see you!
Yes, this is a new series.
Yes, there are new people to get to know (like the big, protective, sexy "badges" that keep the bayou safe! Not sorry ;) ).
These stories have a little more emotion and some "intrigue" (but come on, this is an Erin Nicholas series so we're not talking deep darkness and intense danger here! No worries! lol) but they've also got everything you love about my bayou world! Like Autre, goat shenanigans, and Landrys! :)
Spencer and Max were so much fun! I literally loved every day I got to sit down and write this book!
I LOVE grumpy sunshine romances-- reading and writing them-- and this one was especially fun because we had a twist... SHE is more of a grump than he is ;)
Well, he gets plenty grumpy when some creep threatens the woman who, despite his best efforts, Spencer is falling for. But when it comes to taking care of Max, he's allllll cinnamon-roll-y!
I hope you're excited for this next trip to the bayou! Get ready for yummy chicken enchiladas...well, no scratch that. But we have delicious brownies...okay, no, not that either. But there's definitely a bunch of laughs and tons of swoon and lots of fun!
Ellie and the gang can't wait to see you!
September 2, 2022
This wonderful read gets this new series off to a delightful start. Max and Spencer will have you laughing, swooning, sighing and feeling ALL THE FEELS. I thought these two were really cute together and their chemistry is as hot and steamy as New Orleans in August! A smart blend of drama, humor, emotion, heart, tension, sweetness and a little added touches of mystery, danger and suspense make for an enticing and fun story that quickly has you firmly caught up in it and mightily resenting anything that tries (or WORST) actually succeeds in pulling you away!! Lol I am electing to post a candid review.
September 3, 2022
Amazing Start to a New Series has Wit, Heat, Heart and Swoons
This is the first book in the Badges of the Bayou series and it brings us back to Autre, LA and to many beloved characters - if you haven't read the Boys of the Bayou or Boys or the Bayou Gone Wild Series, it is the same wonderful small town and there are cameos from many of the characters from those stories. You definitely do not need to read them but they are both fabulous series and for now at least, available on KU if you have it. This is Max and Spencer's story who first appear in the Boy's of the Bayou Go Wild series, and Bayou Tonight is the novella prequel to their story (it can be found in the Ten First Dates anthology and fully explains the major catalyst for the start of their relationship).
It isn't necessary to read any of the history however to fully enjoy this book. Max and Spencer are wonderful, rich characters with fully flushed out histories and motivations. They both had interesting childhoods which explains a lot of who they are as adults. Their sharing and understanding of each other was heartwarming and it was fun to see them open up and explain their often "odd" behavior. Of course the witty dialog, flirting and sometimes crazy situations was often hysterical, as was their interactions with their friends and the animals in Autre. The sparks and heat were off the charts - they just had to "tame that" fire to get what they wanted out of a "real relationship". Enjoy - Can't wait for the next one!
This is the first book in the Badges of the Bayou series and it brings us back to Autre, LA and to many beloved characters - if you haven't read the Boys of the Bayou or Boys or the Bayou Gone Wild Series, it is the same wonderful small town and there are cameos from many of the characters from those stories. You definitely do not need to read them but they are both fabulous series and for now at least, available on KU if you have it. This is Max and Spencer's story who first appear in the Boy's of the Bayou Go Wild series, and Bayou Tonight is the novella prequel to their story (it can be found in the Ten First Dates anthology and fully explains the major catalyst for the start of their relationship).
It isn't necessary to read any of the history however to fully enjoy this book. Max and Spencer are wonderful, rich characters with fully flushed out histories and motivations. They both had interesting childhoods which explains a lot of who they are as adults. Their sharing and understanding of each other was heartwarming and it was fun to see them open up and explain their often "odd" behavior. Of course the witty dialog, flirting and sometimes crazy situations was often hysterical, as was their interactions with their friends and the animals in Autre. The sparks and heat were off the charts - they just had to "tame that" fire to get what they wanted out of a "real relationship". Enjoy - Can't wait for the next one!
April 26, 2023
“…home doesn’t have to look a certain way. It just has to be home for you and I think it means more when you make it your own.”
Gotta Be Bayou is the first book in the Badges of the Bayou Series and it’s off to a smoldering start. Spencer and Max are pure fire and I adored them. Their story is sweet, steamy and so much fun.
“He felt perpetually annoyed around her. Annoyed by his attraction to her. Annoyed by the fact that he couldn’t stop thinking about her. Annoyed that whenever she was even within ten feet of him, he wanted to touch her.”
Spencer has some preconceived ideas about his ideal woman and he knows that Max is all wrong for him, but he finds himself unexplainably drawn to her anyway. He can’t stay away. When she’s in danger, he drops everything so that he can protect her.
“Just take her hand, Spencer. Every time Max reaches out for you. Sometimes she might be reaching so you can pull her up. But sometimes she’ll be reaching to pull you up. Both times you want to take her hand.”
Max has spent her entire life taking care of herself. She’s independent to a fault and she’s not sure how to handle the love and caring she finds from the entire community of Autre but especially from Spencer. He sets off sparks in her that she’s never experienced and she finds herself rethinking her stance on life.
“…the longer I’ve known you, the more I realized that you might want more from me because you know I can give you more.”
I absolutely loved the snarky banter between these two. They have a fiery chemistry that explodes off the page and I loved how they communicated with each other. The more time they spend together, the more they realize that what they thought they wanted is not want they actually need. I loved watching them grow and compromise both together and separately.
“You boys with the badges. Always wanting to be the heroes and not realizing that bein’ saved—having’ someone see you and decide you’re worth it, and bein’ willin’ to jump in and pull you out of whatever it is that’s threatening you—is maybe the best d**ned thing that can happen to a person.”
I also listen to the audio of this title and it was fabulous. It's told in duet narration by Stephen Dexter and Eva Glade. Stephen was positively swoony with his southern accent and Eva was perfection as Spencer. Both brought all of the emotions the characters were feeling to life and it was absolute perfection. I loved it.
Full of a little bit of suspense, a whole lot of heat, and so many laughs, Gotta Be Bayou is charmingly delightful and I devoured it. I couldn’t wait for Max and Spencer’s story and it definitely did not disappoint. I loved checking in with all of our old friends in Autre and I can’t wait to read the next book in this fun new series.
Gotta Be Bayou is the first book in the Badges of the Bayou Series and it’s off to a smoldering start. Spencer and Max are pure fire and I adored them. Their story is sweet, steamy and so much fun.
“He felt perpetually annoyed around her. Annoyed by his attraction to her. Annoyed by the fact that he couldn’t stop thinking about her. Annoyed that whenever she was even within ten feet of him, he wanted to touch her.”
Spencer has some preconceived ideas about his ideal woman and he knows that Max is all wrong for him, but he finds himself unexplainably drawn to her anyway. He can’t stay away. When she’s in danger, he drops everything so that he can protect her.
“Just take her hand, Spencer. Every time Max reaches out for you. Sometimes she might be reaching so you can pull her up. But sometimes she’ll be reaching to pull you up. Both times you want to take her hand.”
Max has spent her entire life taking care of herself. She’s independent to a fault and she’s not sure how to handle the love and caring she finds from the entire community of Autre but especially from Spencer. He sets off sparks in her that she’s never experienced and she finds herself rethinking her stance on life.
“…the longer I’ve known you, the more I realized that you might want more from me because you know I can give you more.”
I absolutely loved the snarky banter between these two. They have a fiery chemistry that explodes off the page and I loved how they communicated with each other. The more time they spend together, the more they realize that what they thought they wanted is not want they actually need. I loved watching them grow and compromise both together and separately.
“You boys with the badges. Always wanting to be the heroes and not realizing that bein’ saved—having’ someone see you and decide you’re worth it, and bein’ willin’ to jump in and pull you out of whatever it is that’s threatening you—is maybe the best d**ned thing that can happen to a person.”
I also listen to the audio of this title and it was fabulous. It's told in duet narration by Stephen Dexter and Eva Glade. Stephen was positively swoony with his southern accent and Eva was perfection as Spencer. Both brought all of the emotions the characters were feeling to life and it was absolute perfection. I loved it.
Full of a little bit of suspense, a whole lot of heat, and so many laughs, Gotta Be Bayou is charmingly delightful and I devoured it. I couldn’t wait for Max and Spencer’s story and it definitely did not disappoint. I loved checking in with all of our old friends in Autre and I can’t wait to read the next book in this fun new series.
September 9, 2022
5 Incredibly Bayou Perfection Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
Ohhhhhhh, How I Loved This Book. This has everything I love about Erin Nicholas' writing. It has all the heart, the quirkiness, the steam, the swoon, the confrontation of real emotional issues, and the unique way Nicholas always imparts wisdom for our times and real life.
I am not going to give you any specifics about this book because you really need to read it.
I will only give you this:
It takes the idea of what someone thinks they need to be happy and turns it on its ear.
Two people who have figured out what works for them...one who came to the "way things work" due to the very specific type of upbringing she had. Made her strong, more than capable but also mostly alone.
Not surprisingly, our other person is who he is due to his own upbringing and family life. His pursuit of what he thinks is how he should live stems from what he saw working for his dad and mom. It has been a plus and a minus for him. The plus is he is open and clear about what he wants almost to a fault. The minus is he has met this woman who doesn't fit his template, and she totally agrees, that they do not fit.
These two people should not work at all...yet, the chemistry is explosive, beyond intense, and cannot be denied. That is our fella's quandary. She is so not what he is looking for. He is not the man she thinks she needs in her life.
AND YET...
Then add in all the other wonderful elements of the Bayou family Erin Nicholas created. This is perfection.
Please read this book...you will see so much more than is just on the page, and on the page there is so much.
Oh, and there are more books coming too!
Gotta Be Bayou (Badges of the Bayou #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bayou With Benefits (Badges of the Bayou #2): a firefighter, nanny, friends to lovers stand-alone small-town rom-com
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rocked Bayou (Badges of the Bayou #3): a bodyguard, rockstar, stuck together, small town rom com
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
June 24, 2022- Oowwweee, We Have A Blurb!!!
Sexy, Broody, FBI Agent Spencer Landry...
Is Use To Danger, Threats, And Risking His Life...
But He Never Worried So Much...
As He Is Now...
Because Keeping Fiery Investigative Journalist Max Keller Safe...
Is Now His Main Occupation...
There Is Only One Little Issue...
Max Would Rather Feed Him To Gators...
Then Have Him On Her Couch...
Looking Out For Her...
Of Course, Neither Of Them Wants To Address...
That Time They Spent Together...
No, They Will Pretend Until They Can't...
Cause That's...
Gotta Be Bayou (Badges of the Bayou #1)- September 13, 2022
February 22, 2022 (2/22/22!)
Cannot Wait For This Next Adventure On The Bayou!
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free
Ohhhhhhh, How I Loved This Book. This has everything I love about Erin Nicholas' writing. It has all the heart, the quirkiness, the steam, the swoon, the confrontation of real emotional issues, and the unique way Nicholas always imparts wisdom for our times and real life.
I am not going to give you any specifics about this book because you really need to read it.
I will only give you this:
It takes the idea of what someone thinks they need to be happy and turns it on its ear.
Two people who have figured out what works for them...one who came to the "way things work" due to the very specific type of upbringing she had. Made her strong, more than capable but also mostly alone.
Not surprisingly, our other person is who he is due to his own upbringing and family life. His pursuit of what he thinks is how he should live stems from what he saw working for his dad and mom. It has been a plus and a minus for him. The plus is he is open and clear about what he wants almost to a fault. The minus is he has met this woman who doesn't fit his template, and she totally agrees, that they do not fit.
These two people should not work at all...yet, the chemistry is explosive, beyond intense, and cannot be denied. That is our fella's quandary. She is so not what he is looking for. He is not the man she thinks she needs in her life.
AND YET...
Then add in all the other wonderful elements of the Bayou family Erin Nicholas created. This is perfection.
Please read this book...you will see so much more than is just on the page, and on the page there is so much.
Oh, and there are more books coming too!
Gotta Be Bayou (Badges of the Bayou #1) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Bayou With Benefits (Badges of the Bayou #2): a firefighter, nanny, friends to lovers stand-alone small-town rom-comhttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rocked Bayou (Badges of the Bayou #3): a bodyguard, rockstar, stuck together, small town rom comhttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
June 24, 2022- Oowwweee, We Have A Blurb!!!
Sexy, Broody, FBI Agent Spencer Landry...
Is Use To Danger, Threats, And Risking His Life...
But He Never Worried So Much...
As He Is Now...
Because Keeping Fiery Investigative Journalist Max Keller Safe...
Is Now His Main Occupation...
There Is Only One Little Issue...
Max Would Rather Feed Him To Gators...
Then Have Him On Her Couch...
Looking Out For Her...
Of Course, Neither Of Them Wants To Address...
That Time They Spent Together...
No, They Will Pretend Until They Can't...
Cause That's...
Gotta Be Bayou (Badges of the Bayou #1)- September 13, 2022
February 22, 2022 (2/22/22!)
Cannot Wait For This Next Adventure On The Bayou!
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 7, 2023
Wow!!! If I could give 50 stars, I would!!! Gotta Be Bayou is Erin Nicholas’ first book in the Badge of the Bayou series; a spin-off of her previous bayou series. You can’t help but love the Landry’s and Spencer Landry is a hot, protective, FBI Agent, and bayou boy! He has some wacky ideas about what his perfect woman should be and Max Keller just doesn’t fit his list - at all. And yet, he can’t get her out of his mind. When he finds out she’s in danger he rushes in to protect her and get her out of harms way. These two may seem like an odd fit, but before long they start fitting perfectly!
This book had an additional element of suspense to it, that made it even more thrilling. Watching Spencer come to his senses and realize what a perfect home life looks like is divine. I loved how Spencer has the calling to be a hero, yet isn’t simply a two-dimensional character. Erin shows the sides of him that include guilt, fear, and the worry over not being able to do enough in his job and how it keeps him up at night. Max seems to be the opposite, not wanting anyone to take care of her and filling her life with her investigative journalism. But as they get to know each other, we see just how similar they really are.
There were so many wonderful facets in this story. The wonderful Ellie and her great advice, Leo with his stories that give life lessons, appearances from other bayou boys and ladies, and of course Josh Landry as the father of a toddler! ❤️
Gotta Be Bayou starts the Badges of the Bayou series off with a bag (pun intended)! I’m excited for the next bayou badge boy, Michael, and knowing there is a whole series in front of me makes me soooo happy! This is my honest and voluntary review.
This book had an additional element of suspense to it, that made it even more thrilling. Watching Spencer come to his senses and realize what a perfect home life looks like is divine. I loved how Spencer has the calling to be a hero, yet isn’t simply a two-dimensional character. Erin shows the sides of him that include guilt, fear, and the worry over not being able to do enough in his job and how it keeps him up at night. Max seems to be the opposite, not wanting anyone to take care of her and filling her life with her investigative journalism. But as they get to know each other, we see just how similar they really are.
There were so many wonderful facets in this story. The wonderful Ellie and her great advice, Leo with his stories that give life lessons, appearances from other bayou boys and ladies, and of course Josh Landry as the father of a toddler! ❤️
Gotta Be Bayou starts the Badges of the Bayou series off with a bag (pun intended)! I’m excited for the next bayou badge boy, Michael, and knowing there is a whole series in front of me makes me soooo happy! This is my honest and voluntary review.
May 1, 2025
Readers, hold onto your hats! Spencer and Max bring all the flirty, hot, satisfying joy you can handle and then some!
GOTTA BE BAYOU is the first in Erin Nicholas’s Badges of the Bayou series, set in fictional Autre, Louisiana. FBI agent Spencer Landry’s and investigative reporter Max Keller’s paths have crossed in the course of some crimes involving wild animal tracking and because of the involvement of their close friends. It doesn’t explain their desire to continue crossing paths… or more.
And really, they both recognize they are so NOT each other’s types. And yet…
Erin Nicholas’s story is a stellar opposites-attract, forced proximity, big-city-meets-small-town delight. I devoured every word and then read it again for good measure.
Make sure to start with BAYOU TONIGHT to get the most out of Spencer and Max’s irresistible attraction.
I especially appreciated Max and Spencer recognizing that some of the challenges they faced were better tackled with the help of others, and seeing that they
put in the time and work individually and together toward that. And also loved seeing that ongoing. Beautiful all around.
GOTTA BE BAYOU is the first in Erin Nicholas’s Badges of the Bayou series, set in fictional Autre, Louisiana. FBI agent Spencer Landry’s and investigative reporter Max Keller’s paths have crossed in the course of some crimes involving wild animal tracking and because of the involvement of their close friends. It doesn’t explain their desire to continue crossing paths… or more.
And really, they both recognize they are so NOT each other’s types. And yet…
Erin Nicholas’s story is a stellar opposites-attract, forced proximity, big-city-meets-small-town delight. I devoured every word and then read it again for good measure.
Make sure to start with BAYOU TONIGHT to get the most out of Spencer and Max’s irresistible attraction.
I especially appreciated Max and Spencer recognizing that some of the challenges they faced were better tackled with the help of others, and seeing that they
put in the time and work individually and together toward that. And also loved seeing that ongoing. Beautiful all around.
September 6, 2022
Gotta Be Bayou kicks off the Badges of The Bayou series with a bang!
I love an opposites attract storyline and Maxine and Spencer are about as opposite as you can get! They both want different things out of life yet are undeniably attracted to eachother despite their differences.
Throw in the forced proximity to this fun and sexy rom com and you have another Erin Nicholas hit.
Leo gave some pretty great advice too!!
Already looking forward to the audio for this book!!
I love an opposites attract storyline and Maxine and Spencer are about as opposite as you can get! They both want different things out of life yet are undeniably attracted to eachother despite their differences.
Throw in the forced proximity to this fun and sexy rom com and you have another Erin Nicholas hit.
Leo gave some pretty great advice too!!
Already looking forward to the audio for this book!!
September 6, 2022
My heart hurt for Max’s sad childhood. I couldn’t imagine growing up like that. Spencer & Max were complete opposites in what they wanted out of life but I love that Max helped Spencer realize that maybe they were more alike than he thought. Spencer also showed Max the joys of happiness & having someone care for you, which she definitely needed. This book covered some heavy topics of depression, which I found to be pretty interesting. You never know what some people are struggling with.
While it did have heavier topics, it also had the laugh out loud craziness that I come to expect from Arture. I love this little Bayou town & all the wild residents that come with it!
While it did have heavier topics, it also had the laugh out loud craziness that I come to expect from Arture. I love this little Bayou town & all the wild residents that come with it!
September 5, 2022
Max and Spencer might just have become my new favourite couple from the Bayou! We already had plenty of occasions to witness they could be incredible together (I am sure I was not the only one cheering for the two of them ever since Say It Like You Mane It) but they reached new levels of Bayou-awesomeness!
This new series of the badges is gonna be ah-mazing, I am already half in love with all of them and I just saw glimpses of a few of them and I already can't wait!!
This new series of the badges is gonna be ah-mazing, I am already half in love with all of them and I just saw glimpses of a few of them and I already can't wait!!
September 1, 2022
I love anything Erin Nicholas writes, and Gotta Be Bayou is no exception.
Spencer starts off on the wrong foot with his “girlfriend list,” but it was easy to see that he had that list for the wrong reasons. And I love that we get to delve into his mind; I love that Gotta Be Bayou doesn’t just coast on the surface emotions, we go deep and dive.
Both Spencer and Maxine were great characters. Their chemistry and compatibility was evident, and I loved how they both were willing to compromise and let down their emotional walls.
The mystery was the weakest part of the story, but all I want is great characterization and devotion, so I’m happy with everything.
Gotta Be Bayou was sweet, hot, and gave me all the feels.
Spencer starts off on the wrong foot with his “girlfriend list,” but it was easy to see that he had that list for the wrong reasons. And I love that we get to delve into his mind; I love that Gotta Be Bayou doesn’t just coast on the surface emotions, we go deep and dive.
Both Spencer and Maxine were great characters. Their chemistry and compatibility was evident, and I loved how they both were willing to compromise and let down their emotional walls.
The mystery was the weakest part of the story, but all I want is great characterization and devotion, so I’m happy with everything.
Gotta Be Bayou was sweet, hot, and gave me all the feels.
September 2, 2022
Max and Spencer are… wonderful. Their story was entertaining, funny, sexy, but also deep and passionate. As usual, Ellie and Leo Landry were there to give some seriously profound advice/stories, and I loved that the author focused on finding/creating your own personal happiness, instead of relying on someone else to proved it. Overall, I was thoroughly engrossed in another fabulous Erin Nicholas book, and am REALLY excited for Michael and Ami’s story!
September 19, 2022
This one was interesting after reading about Spencer and Max in the prequel. I liked seeing that Spencer still had Max on his mind, despite realizing that she was the exact opposite of his "dream girl". Yet, when Max was in danger, Spencer rushed to make sure she was safe. Seeing the two of them work through what Spencer "thought he wanted" from a mate, to what was really important was fun. Max brought up some great points, for her lonely view of growing up, making Spencer see things a bit differently. Max also got some great advice while in Autre from the legion that are the Landry's, allowing her to think a bit differently. Max did have a great idea that they both needed therapy so that they could be stronger together. It was great to see how they made it work and to see them happy.
September 13, 2022
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Max is not only surprised, but seriously annoyed, to find Spencer has barged into her apartment, with his FBI buddies too, just to tell her someone's been threatening her. Now he's got her holed up with him in Autre, Louisiana, pretending to be a couple, so he can protect her. She's still annoyed, because her body can't get on the same page as her mind. Her mind knows she's the opposite of his type, and that they're not a real couple. He wants the kind of woman who cooks and cleans and is waiting at home for him. She's so not that. But somehow her heart is falling for this man who doesn't want the kind of woman she is.
Spencer cannot get Max off his mind and it's driving him nuts. She's driving him nuts. He has this idea in his mind of what his ideal type of woman is, and Max is the opposite of that ideal. So why is she the one he can't get off his mind? Can't stop wanting in his bed and in his life? He can't possibly be falling for her, can he?
I love it when people fight their feelings, because it makes it all the better when they realize just how they really feel. Makes the fight all the more delicious, and the trip to the realization all the more sweet at the end. Spencer and Max, especially Spencer, fight their feelings. Spencer had messed up ideas, and they really affected him, and Max for that matter. But once he realized? Whew! Talk about alpha male protector! But Max isn't just some meek mouse waiting for a man to love her, nope, she's strong, independent and an awesome investigative journalist. I loved these two, they are the perfect couple to introduce this new series. It felt familiar because it's set in the same world as Boys of the Bayou, so it read like coming home, and what a place to come home to.
ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
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August 31, 2022
Get ready to head back to Autre for a whole new crop of Louisiana Bayou boys with Erin Nicholas' Badges of the Bayou series! Gotta Be Bayou is the first book in the Badges of the Bayou and can be enjoyed as a standalone. This series is a spin-off of a few others so there are many returning/interconnected characters peppered in throughout the story but it's not essential to this story to have read any of the other Bayou series.
4-4.5⭐
I have been in love with the Landry's with their humor, protectiveness and most of all their quickness to fall head over heels in love since the very first Boys on the Bayou series. Spencer Landry follows right in line with his extended family in Gotta Be Bayou. You will need to read Bayou Tonight which is the novella prequel to Spencer and Max's story and it can be found in the Ten First Dates anthology as the events of that story are the major catalyst for the start of their relationship.
Spencer has quite the list of what he envisions his future wife to be like- sunshine to his gloom after a day of work, home cooked meals and desserts, dogs and kids... all things that Maxine Keller is not. Max is fiercely independent and has a stubborn streak that wouldn't allow her to fall into any of Spencer's wife criteria on principle alone.
Gotta Be Bayou has a little bit of everything all rolled into one. It starts off with some suspense and threats of danger, humor, heat and attraction. But the goodness doesn't stop there- add in some swoony sweet moments, a little heart squeezes and some dirty talk and you'll be addicted to these two as well. The more Spencer dragged Max's walls down and learned more about her upbringing and how she lives her life now it's so easy to have your heart splinter and want to give her all the nurturing and love she has been missing- and that's pretty much what Spencer does. His protective streak when it came to her was alluring but when he puts all of his Landry charm and charisma into taking care of her and making her feel loved and cherished- ugh, a fictional character has almost never been so attractive to me.
Spencer and Max hooked me quickly and wholly. The threat of danger setting Spencer up for panic in what was a fairly unprofessional moment for him had potential and the bits and pieces scattered throughout their story was like catnip- but the resolution felt a little rushed or glossed over and left me a little underwhelmed in that aspect. The rest of the story was everything I love and expect when reading an Erin Nicholas book.
I will say that it always takes me a chapter or two to get into the groove of reading Erin's books since she does not write in the dual first person POV that most of the romances I tend to read are but her stories are always such a good time that I can't give them up.
I need more badges now! Can't wait for Michael's story next.
4-4.5⭐
I have been in love with the Landry's with their humor, protectiveness and most of all their quickness to fall head over heels in love since the very first Boys on the Bayou series. Spencer Landry follows right in line with his extended family in Gotta Be Bayou. You will need to read Bayou Tonight which is the novella prequel to Spencer and Max's story and it can be found in the Ten First Dates anthology as the events of that story are the major catalyst for the start of their relationship.
Spencer has quite the list of what he envisions his future wife to be like- sunshine to his gloom after a day of work, home cooked meals and desserts, dogs and kids... all things that Maxine Keller is not. Max is fiercely independent and has a stubborn streak that wouldn't allow her to fall into any of Spencer's wife criteria on principle alone.
Gotta Be Bayou has a little bit of everything all rolled into one. It starts off with some suspense and threats of danger, humor, heat and attraction. But the goodness doesn't stop there- add in some swoony sweet moments, a little heart squeezes and some dirty talk and you'll be addicted to these two as well. The more Spencer dragged Max's walls down and learned more about her upbringing and how she lives her life now it's so easy to have your heart splinter and want to give her all the nurturing and love she has been missing- and that's pretty much what Spencer does. His protective streak when it came to her was alluring but when he puts all of his Landry charm and charisma into taking care of her and making her feel loved and cherished- ugh, a fictional character has almost never been so attractive to me.
Spencer and Max hooked me quickly and wholly. The threat of danger setting Spencer up for panic in what was a fairly unprofessional moment for him had potential and the bits and pieces scattered throughout their story was like catnip- but the resolution felt a little rushed or glossed over and left me a little underwhelmed in that aspect. The rest of the story was everything I love and expect when reading an Erin Nicholas book.
I will say that it always takes me a chapter or two to get into the groove of reading Erin's books since she does not write in the dual first person POV that most of the romances I tend to read are but her stories are always such a good time that I can't give them up.
I need more badges now! Can't wait for Michael's story next.
September 13, 2022
Fake dating
Opposites attract
Small town
This book is a fantastic start to what I’m sure will be an amazing series. It brings all the wit, swoony moments, and let’s not forget the heat!
This is my first by this author, and first in the world of these characters, but after reading this I definitely plan to go back and read the other books that take place in the same small town of Autre. With that being said not having read the others, didn’t stop me from enjoying this book, the characters, and their story. I felt like I could personally relate since much of my childhood also took place in Louisiana. In a sense this book was like coming home.
For me a book needs an amazing plot (which we have), and some snarky banter to match my personality (this book has its fair share and then some)! Spencer’s idea of the perfect woman isn’t even remotely close to who Max is, but still he’s drawn to her. Max is a strong willed southern woman who doesn’t need anyone to take care of her. Like most southern women she’s independent to a fault, but Spencer has her beginning to question everything. I simply can not wait to get more of the small town, big personality characters.
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March 10, 2023No third act breakup 🎉
September 4, 2022
All the swoony feels but all the other deep emotions too
Phew this book. It’s not a run of the mill light hearted rom com. It has some grit to it. This is a deep emotional book wrapped in the guise of a romcom. It’s one of those stories that you dive in head first and stay completely absorbed in until the very end. While reading this one, expect to feel all the really big, big feelings in between the snort laughing. Spencer is an FBI agent who has some very specific ideas of what he’s looking for in a girlfriend/wife. Max is an investigative reporter who does not check any of Spencer’s boxes. They worked together on a case a year ago so they’re sort of friends and they had a sizzling night together after a wedding but are both sure it can go no farther. Then there’s a direct threat against Max’s life, cue forced proximity in small town Autre surrounded by Spencer’s extended family, more chemistry, deep emotional sharing and the HEA journey begins in earnest. The story has plenty of hilarity, steamy scenes, sweet moments, family support, dysfunctional family dynamics, painful pasts, bad actors, light danger, protectors, and small town goodness with a small bit of angst. The conflict is mostly external. Since it’s a spin off to the other bayou books based in Autre, it is of course filled with loud, larger than life bayou characters and situations, simmering and overwhelming feelings, and cute animals. The story included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline. It’s only the first book but I love this badge series already. I mean what’s not to love - hot sexy bayou protectors falling in love with strong sassy women. I willingly reviewed an early copy of this book.
Phew this book. It’s not a run of the mill light hearted rom com. It has some grit to it. This is a deep emotional book wrapped in the guise of a romcom. It’s one of those stories that you dive in head first and stay completely absorbed in until the very end. While reading this one, expect to feel all the really big, big feelings in between the snort laughing. Spencer is an FBI agent who has some very specific ideas of what he’s looking for in a girlfriend/wife. Max is an investigative reporter who does not check any of Spencer’s boxes. They worked together on a case a year ago so they’re sort of friends and they had a sizzling night together after a wedding but are both sure it can go no farther. Then there’s a direct threat against Max’s life, cue forced proximity in small town Autre surrounded by Spencer’s extended family, more chemistry, deep emotional sharing and the HEA journey begins in earnest. The story has plenty of hilarity, steamy scenes, sweet moments, family support, dysfunctional family dynamics, painful pasts, bad actors, light danger, protectors, and small town goodness with a small bit of angst. The conflict is mostly external. Since it’s a spin off to the other bayou books based in Autre, it is of course filled with loud, larger than life bayou characters and situations, simmering and overwhelming feelings, and cute animals. The story included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline. It’s only the first book but I love this badge series already. I mean what’s not to love - hot sexy bayou protectors falling in love with strong sassy women. I willingly reviewed an early copy of this book.
September 7, 2022
Oh Spencer! You big, naive, sexy fool! Did you really think you'd be happy with a sweet, brownie baking wifey? She'd bore you to tears inside a month. Max has sarcasm, a razor sharp wit and understands the job you work...even if you don't want to talk about it at the end of the day. You have way more in common than you think, if only you'd get out of your own head and realize what's right in front of you...and constantly on your mind.
I was so excited when Erin Nicholas decided she was staying in Autre, LA and giving us more stories from the wonderful Landry family and all their friends. Spencer might be even more delusional as to what he wants than even Knox was, hard as that is to imagine. He needs a firecracker in his life, and that's Max. And frankly, Max needs Spencer and the whole mess of bayou folks that surround him, because this girl needs a hug, or twelve!
The banter is, of course, on point, but the emotions wrapped the whole story in a big red bow for me. This time around, too, we have the advice coming from Leo, not wife Ellie, and I am here for it. We of course see many of our favorite past characters as well as hints of who's to come next. But Max and Spencer will stick with me for a long, long while!!
I was so excited when Erin Nicholas decided she was staying in Autre, LA and giving us more stories from the wonderful Landry family and all their friends. Spencer might be even more delusional as to what he wants than even Knox was, hard as that is to imagine. He needs a firecracker in his life, and that's Max. And frankly, Max needs Spencer and the whole mess of bayou folks that surround him, because this girl needs a hug, or twelve!
The banter is, of course, on point, but the emotions wrapped the whole story in a big red bow for me. This time around, too, we have the advice coming from Leo, not wife Ellie, and I am here for it. We of course see many of our favorite past characters as well as hints of who's to come next. But Max and Spencer will stick with me for a long, long while!!
September 13, 2022
5 star review Gotta Be Bayou (Badges of the Bayou #1) by Erin Nicholas
I was excited when I heard that Erin Nicholas was releasing a new spin off series I could not wait to dive in. When I read Gotta Be Bayou it was everything I was expecting and so much more. If book one is anything to go by, then Ms.Nicholas has another winning series on her hands. From the first chapter I was drawn into FBI agent Spencer Landry and investigative journalist Maxine (Max) Keller’s story and read it in almost one go.
The characters were engaging and I quickly became invested in this entertaining and well written story. On paper Spencer and Max have nothing in common, in fact Max is the total opposite of what Spencer is looking for in a woman and yet he is drawn to her in so many ways.
The chemistry between them cannot be ignored but it was the witty banter, suspense and danger that added an extra layer to this story. When Max is targeted, Spencer will do whatever it takes to protect the woman who drives him crazy and holds his heart.
Being back in Autre, Louisiana is like returning home. Can Spencer keep Max safe? Can they work through their differences and in doing so build a future? One click and find out..
I was excited when I heard that Erin Nicholas was releasing a new spin off series I could not wait to dive in. When I read Gotta Be Bayou it was everything I was expecting and so much more. If book one is anything to go by, then Ms.Nicholas has another winning series on her hands. From the first chapter I was drawn into FBI agent Spencer Landry and investigative journalist Maxine (Max) Keller’s story and read it in almost one go.
The characters were engaging and I quickly became invested in this entertaining and well written story. On paper Spencer and Max have nothing in common, in fact Max is the total opposite of what Spencer is looking for in a woman and yet he is drawn to her in so many ways.
The chemistry between them cannot be ignored but it was the witty banter, suspense and danger that added an extra layer to this story. When Max is targeted, Spencer will do whatever it takes to protect the woman who drives him crazy and holds his heart.
Being back in Autre, Louisiana is like returning home. Can Spencer keep Max safe? Can they work through their differences and in doing so build a future? One click and find out..
September 3, 2022
Gotta Be Bayou, book one in the Badges of the Bayou series, contains everything that I have come to expect in a story by Erin Nicholas! She always manages to bring us interesting characters all within an engaging storyline and this one is tickled with a bit of fun, sprinkled with a touch of danger and dusted with the perfect amount of romance.
FBI special agent, Spencer Landry knows what he wants from a woman he is interested in, the funny thing is, Maxine (Max) Keller is the complete opposite of everything he is looking for, yet she is perfect for him!
When Max is threatened Spencer’s protective nature is fired up. Now, they are forced to stay together in Autre, which is not a hardship for either of them since they have chemistry and their time in close proximity is a perfect chance for them to get to know each other better and find a way to work through their differences in order to find the future together that they both really want.
FBI special agent, Spencer Landry knows what he wants from a woman he is interested in, the funny thing is, Maxine (Max) Keller is the complete opposite of everything he is looking for, yet she is perfect for him!
When Max is threatened Spencer’s protective nature is fired up. Now, they are forced to stay together in Autre, which is not a hardship for either of them since they have chemistry and their time in close proximity is a perfect chance for them to get to know each other better and find a way to work through their differences in order to find the future together that they both really want.
August 29, 2022
Spencer is set up as a bit of a jerk, wanting a sweet woman who will cook for him when he gets home from work. He is self-aware that he sounds misogynist as he lays out his girlfriend requirements. And his reasons are rooted in wanting to offset the darkness of his job for the FBI.
Max is not his dream girl. She wears all black, orders takeout, and faces her own share of darkness in her job as an investigative journalist. But their chemistry is hot. And when she is threatened for doing her job, he feels drawn to protect her.
I loved Max and her dedication to investigating and reporting about the misdeeds of the wealthy. She especially focused on chemical dumping and the racism and classism of cancer clusters. And Spencer grew on me. I loved how protective and caring he was. But more, I loved seeing his growth through the story.
This isn't a stand alone. Get the prequel, Bayou Tonight, for free in Ten First Dates, and read it first. It sets up the relationship between Spencer and Max. They first meet in a previous series, but just reading the prequel should be sufficient.
Thank you to the author and Social Butterfly PR for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.
Max is not his dream girl. She wears all black, orders takeout, and faces her own share of darkness in her job as an investigative journalist. But their chemistry is hot. And when she is threatened for doing her job, he feels drawn to protect her.
I loved Max and her dedication to investigating and reporting about the misdeeds of the wealthy. She especially focused on chemical dumping and the racism and classism of cancer clusters. And Spencer grew on me. I loved how protective and caring he was. But more, I loved seeing his growth through the story.
This isn't a stand alone. Get the prequel, Bayou Tonight, for free in Ten First Dates, and read it first. It sets up the relationship between Spencer and Max. They first meet in a previous series, but just reading the prequel should be sufficient.
Thank you to the author and Social Butterfly PR for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.
September 14, 2022
I absolutely loved everything about Max, she is just the best heroine and add in Spencer and I couldn’t resist this story. These two are totally decided on one thing, that they both know they are two opposite to be a thing but they can’t resist each other. Such a cute story with the perfect about of snarky banter
September 20, 2022
What a gorgeous introduction to a new series. Seeing Max and Spencer work through their preconceived ideas of relationships, family, friendships and love was glorious. Depression was handled sensitively and with great thought by the author. An easy five stars!
September 1, 2022
Love being back in Autre, and this book didn't disappoint! 5 bayou stars for this one!
When Spencer can't get a hold of Max, he fears the worst and rushes over to her place to make sure she's ok after a bomb threat had been sent to the paper she works at. Of course in true Max nature, she's home and in the shower and these two face off. When he convinces her that her life could be in danger, he convinces her to leave her place and head with him to Autre. Max has always been a loner, not having any one care about her so to speak since she was young. So Spencer stepping in and showing her what it really is like, is confusing to her but she's also liking it.
Can Spencer get past what he thinks he wants in a woman, and see what Max has to offer? And can Max actually deal with people caring for her?
This story will give you all the feels, from start to finish! I loved it!
When Spencer can't get a hold of Max, he fears the worst and rushes over to her place to make sure she's ok after a bomb threat had been sent to the paper she works at. Of course in true Max nature, she's home and in the shower and these two face off. When he convinces her that her life could be in danger, he convinces her to leave her place and head with him to Autre. Max has always been a loner, not having any one care about her so to speak since she was young. So Spencer stepping in and showing her what it really is like, is confusing to her but she's also liking it.
Can Spencer get past what he thinks he wants in a woman, and see what Max has to offer? And can Max actually deal with people caring for her?
This story will give you all the feels, from start to finish! I loved it!
September 15, 2022
What a fun sweet book. I have to admit, the premise, where Max, a journalist, is being stalked, and Spencer, an FBI agent and a friend/love from the Autre crowd, protects her, kind of ended on a whimper. This aspect was not a key part of the story per say. But the fun, the laughter and yes the love really was perfectly done and we got to see so many other characters from prior books (and future ones too, please!) Spencer has very specific terms for what he needs in a life partner and Max isn’t it. But can he see beyond what is on his list to how perfect she is for him? I loved the heartwarming, more serious parts of the book that actually do teach a wonderful life lesson. Start at the prequel, which is in Ten First Dates, a separate anthology that was so fun too and really sets to stage as to how this couple interacts with each other as well as introduces his list in a funny, laugh inducing way.
By the way, I adore the wording of the title of their series. How absolutely adorable. I will definitely be buying and reading any books Bayou, Erin Nicholas!!
By the way, I adore the wording of the title of their series. How absolutely adorable. I will definitely be buying and reading any books Bayou, Erin Nicholas!!
April 13, 2023
Laugh out loud good!
FBI Agent, Spencer is assigned to protect Max, not fall in love with her. This story is captivating and fun to read as Spencer plots to keep Max in his life, while Max fights to not fall in love, in order to keep her independence.
At the petting zoo, Max meets Liv, one of Spencer's high school friends. Liv makes it known, she'd love to hook up with Spencer any time, any place. Max is not having it. Spencer is hiding how happy he is that Max is jealous. Well until she is bitten by a goat and his cousin arrives to give Max "medical attention" and Spencer is about to lose his mind over the "thorough" medical exam. I laughed so hard, I almost fell off my chair.
Spencer requires his "future"girlfriend" to cook and bake and Max does not do either of these things. But when Spencer reveals why he needs these things, the reasons are heart-breaking!
FBI Agent, Spencer is assigned to protect Max, not fall in love with her. This story is captivating and fun to read as Spencer plots to keep Max in his life, while Max fights to not fall in love, in order to keep her independence.
At the petting zoo, Max meets Liv, one of Spencer's high school friends. Liv makes it known, she'd love to hook up with Spencer any time, any place. Max is not having it. Spencer is hiding how happy he is that Max is jealous. Well until she is bitten by a goat and his cousin arrives to give Max "medical attention" and Spencer is about to lose his mind over the "thorough" medical exam. I laughed so hard, I almost fell off my chair.
Spencer requires his "future"girlfriend" to cook and bake and Max does not do either of these things. But when Spencer reveals why he needs these things, the reasons are heart-breaking!
November 1, 2022
(sent for review)
blegh. cop propaganda. It was one of those books that’s in a series in a big group of characters but it relied way too heavily on the expectation that the reader has read all the other books, cares about the other characters, and knows the main characters origin stories. Super insta love which is not my vibe and the main plot of the story gets resolved in like two seconds? I just wish the whole protecting her plot line was actually part of the story so that it was some version of the bodyguard trope. i was wholly unimpressed and not entertained.
blegh. cop propaganda. It was one of those books that’s in a series in a big group of characters but it relied way too heavily on the expectation that the reader has read all the other books, cares about the other characters, and knows the main characters origin stories. Super insta love which is not my vibe and the main plot of the story gets resolved in like two seconds? I just wish the whole protecting her plot line was actually part of the story so that it was some version of the bodyguard trope. i was wholly unimpressed and not entertained.
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February 11, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/26/2023)! 🎁
September 10, 2022
GOTTA BE BAYOU is the first instalment in Erin Nicholas’ contemporary, adult BADGES OF THE BAYOU erotic, romance series-a spin off from the author’s BOYS OF THE BAYOU GONE WILD. This is FBI Agent Spencer Landry, and investigative journalist Maxine ‘Max’ Keller’s continuing story line. Max and Spencer’s story begins in the prequel novella BAYOU TONIGHT. Bayou Tonight was originally released in the multi-authored TEN FIRST DATES (August 2022). I recommend reading BAYOU TONIGHT for the backstory between Max and Spencer, who first met in SAY IT LIKE YOU MANE IT (Boys of the Bayou Gone Wild).
Told from third person perspective GOTTA BE BAYOU follows the building romance and relationship between FBI Agent Spencer Landry, and investigative journalist Maxine ‘Max’ Keller. Approximately one year earlier Journalist Maxine Keller journeyed to the Bayou to investigate the illegal sale and transportation of exotic animals, alongside her best friend Caroline Holland (Say It Like You Mane It #5). Fast forward to present day wherein Max returns to the Bayou where she will connect at a friend’s wedding with FBI Agent Spencer Landry , a connection that is about to save her life. Someone is threatening our story line heroine, and Spencer has made himself guardian and protector of the woman with whom he will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Spencer and Max, and the potential fall-out as Max’s investigations take aim at some powerful people.
Spencer Landry and Maxine Keller have nothing in common including family, friendships, likes and dislikes but a night of drunken conversation finds Spencer trying to convince our heroine into something more, something that will change their lives forever. When the threats against Maxine become personal and deadly, Spencer takes Maxine to the Bayou where she will be surrounded by his family and friends.
The relationship between Max and Spencer is a frenemies to lovers. Max doesn’t want Spencer’s protection but our heroine is a little bit TSTL when it comes to her own safety and the threats against her life. As an investigative journalist our heroine claims to know all about the risks and rewards but the latest threats follow our heroine to Spencer’s home town. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and familiar secondary and supporting characters including most of the couples and people we met in the previous series.
GOTTA BE BAYOU is a story of obsession and vengeance, obsession and power, family, friendships, relationships and love. The premise is riveting and captivating but the conflict resolution was limited and mostly off page; the characters are charismatic and dynamic; the romance is spicy and seductive.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from third person perspective GOTTA BE BAYOU follows the building romance and relationship between FBI Agent Spencer Landry, and investigative journalist Maxine ‘Max’ Keller. Approximately one year earlier Journalist Maxine Keller journeyed to the Bayou to investigate the illegal sale and transportation of exotic animals, alongside her best friend Caroline Holland (Say It Like You Mane It #5). Fast forward to present day wherein Max returns to the Bayou where she will connect at a friend’s wedding with FBI Agent Spencer Landry , a connection that is about to save her life. Someone is threatening our story line heroine, and Spencer has made himself guardian and protector of the woman with whom he will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Spencer and Max, and the potential fall-out as Max’s investigations take aim at some powerful people.
Spencer Landry and Maxine Keller have nothing in common including family, friendships, likes and dislikes but a night of drunken conversation finds Spencer trying to convince our heroine into something more, something that will change their lives forever. When the threats against Maxine become personal and deadly, Spencer takes Maxine to the Bayou where she will be surrounded by his family and friends.
The relationship between Max and Spencer is a frenemies to lovers. Max doesn’t want Spencer’s protection but our heroine is a little bit TSTL when it comes to her own safety and the threats against her life. As an investigative journalist our heroine claims to know all about the risks and rewards but the latest threats follow our heroine to Spencer’s home town. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and familiar secondary and supporting characters including most of the couples and people we met in the previous series.
GOTTA BE BAYOU is a story of obsession and vengeance, obsession and power, family, friendships, relationships and love. The premise is riveting and captivating but the conflict resolution was limited and mostly off page; the characters are charismatic and dynamic; the romance is spicy and seductive.
www.thereadingcafe.com
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