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Shore Thing #3
Flustering Ford
Ford Ashton
They say you never forget your first. Who’s they, you ask? Good question. I wish I had the answer because I’ve tried everything to get Abe Manning off my mind. Now he’s here, in Coral Pointe Inlet, staying in the inn that I co-own with my four best friends. Okay, I may have had something to do with that, but these thoughts are driving me crazy. I need to know what happened all those years ago, because if the saying is true, how was it so easy for Abe to forget about me?
Abe Manning
A free trip to Coral Pointe Inlet, the shore town that is the very definition of paradise, is exactly what I need. The best part being there’s no chance of running into two lying liars who lie. For the first time in a long time, I’m able to take a much-needed deep breath. That is, until my past shows up on the beach with a sexy smile and an unexpected confession. It was hard enough forgetting him the first time, and now here he is again—a temptation I’d never been able to deny. I have to admit, though, it’s incredible to know I still have the ability to fluster Ford.
Flustering Ford is book 3 in the Shore Thing series. While it can be read as a standalone, it's recommended that the reader get to know this hilarious group of friends in Coral Pointe Inlet by starting with book 1.
They say you never forget your first. Who’s they, you ask? Good question. I wish I had the answer because I’ve tried everything to get Abe Manning off my mind. Now he’s here, in Coral Pointe Inlet, staying in the inn that I co-own with my four best friends. Okay, I may have had something to do with that, but these thoughts are driving me crazy. I need to know what happened all those years ago, because if the saying is true, how was it so easy for Abe to forget about me?
Abe Manning
A free trip to Coral Pointe Inlet, the shore town that is the very definition of paradise, is exactly what I need. The best part being there’s no chance of running into two lying liars who lie. For the first time in a long time, I’m able to take a much-needed deep breath. That is, until my past shows up on the beach with a sexy smile and an unexpected confession. It was hard enough forgetting him the first time, and now here he is again—a temptation I’d never been able to deny. I have to admit, though, it’s incredible to know I still have the ability to fluster Ford.
Flustering Ford is book 3 in the Shore Thing series. While it can be read as a standalone, it's recommended that the reader get to know this hilarious group of friends in Coral Pointe Inlet by starting with book 1.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2022
69 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
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September 22, 2025
MM Romance
Second Chance
3.5 Stars Rounded up ⭐️
REREAD via audiobook-Kirk Graves-Liked this one more this time than last time tbh. 💗
*******************
I love this series and yet I’ve never rated a book over 3.5 stars. I’ve always rounded up to 4 stars because of the characters themselves but have found some of the romance lacking. Despite that, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book because of the town and the friend group. This is a low to no angst series with 5 main characters who have been besties since college and now own a few businesses together in the beach town of Coral Pointe, Florida. These guys are in their 30s and I love that so far they’ve all been able to communicate and there has been no stupid misunderstandings. It’s nice to read about mature characters for a change. 😂 One of the main reasons I keep reading this series is to bask in the snarky banter going on between Burke and Jared. Their book will be released last and the crumbs this author leaves of their bitter, tension filled relationship just does it for me. I can’t wait. This book is about Ford though, the jokester of the group and is a second chance first love storyline.
Going into this, I can’t say I’ve been all that interested in Ford but I do love a good second chance romance. Ford was the ever popular quarterback in high school but he fell for a nerdy guy named Abe. Abe cut off their relationship right before going to college breaking Ford’s heart. Fast forward 16 years to the present and Ford gets a friend suggestion on Facebook for Abe, the one who got away. (This has happened to me before too. I wish I had ignored it 😂😂) Long story short Ford schemes a way to get Abe to the beach town for vacation so they can reunite.
I liked this but with the exception of the prologue there were no flashback scenes to the past and I would have liked a few more to really feel their connection. I felt it in the present but I just wanted more than I got. Other than that though, the friend group was hilarious as always and I loved the cameos from the couples of the previous books. I was never bored and finished this within a few hours. Noah’s book is next and he’s a bit of a mystery so I’m not sure what to expect but I know I’ll read it when it comes out. 💗
Second Chance
3.5 Stars Rounded up ⭐️
REREAD via audiobook-Kirk Graves-Liked this one more this time than last time tbh. 💗
*******************
I love this series and yet I’ve never rated a book over 3.5 stars. I’ve always rounded up to 4 stars because of the characters themselves but have found some of the romance lacking. Despite that, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book because of the town and the friend group. This is a low to no angst series with 5 main characters who have been besties since college and now own a few businesses together in the beach town of Coral Pointe, Florida. These guys are in their 30s and I love that so far they’ve all been able to communicate and there has been no stupid misunderstandings. It’s nice to read about mature characters for a change. 😂 One of the main reasons I keep reading this series is to bask in the snarky banter going on between Burke and Jared. Their book will be released last and the crumbs this author leaves of their bitter, tension filled relationship just does it for me. I can’t wait. This book is about Ford though, the jokester of the group and is a second chance first love storyline.
Going into this, I can’t say I’ve been all that interested in Ford but I do love a good second chance romance. Ford was the ever popular quarterback in high school but he fell for a nerdy guy named Abe. Abe cut off their relationship right before going to college breaking Ford’s heart. Fast forward 16 years to the present and Ford gets a friend suggestion on Facebook for Abe, the one who got away. (This has happened to me before too. I wish I had ignored it 😂😂) Long story short Ford schemes a way to get Abe to the beach town for vacation so they can reunite.
I liked this but with the exception of the prologue there were no flashback scenes to the past and I would have liked a few more to really feel their connection. I felt it in the present but I just wanted more than I got. Other than that though, the friend group was hilarious as always and I loved the cameos from the couples of the previous books. I was never bored and finished this within a few hours. Noah’s book is next and he’s a bit of a mystery so I’m not sure what to expect but I know I’ll read it when it comes out. 💗
September 4, 2025
No idea if the books keep getting better or if I just came to love the guys more with every new couple ❤️
It was probably one of the sweetest second chance romances I’ve ever read - Ford, one of the aforementioned group of friends, co-owner of Shore Things and resident surf teacher, never forgot about Abe, the nerdy guy he fell in love with at the end of highschool, and who - for some reason - broke off contact with him afterwards.
Funny thing though - their mums are best friends, and that’s how Ford hears about Abe having a bad time after a shitty breakup. So the mums and Ford band together to get Abe to spend a week at Shore Things to clear his head - and give Ford the opportunity what went wrong all these years ago.
Turns out, Abe hasn’t forgotten about him either.
And happily ever after they lived 😂
It’s very low on drama, even the “evil ex” only plays a minor role. Instead, we have two extremely lovable men in their thirties, falling in love again, and this time, dealing with it like grownups.
There’s a lot of banter, laughter, and some extremely hot encounters, because of course there are. One thing I love about this series: while each book is focused on one couple, the friends play a part, too, and the found family vibes and the way they stand up for each other is heartwarming.
Still, I can’t quite rate it with 5 stars - the reason they broke up with each other all these years ago feels… idk. Unsatisfying. For once, I’d probably would have loved more flashbacks to help me understand 🤷♀️ And for the life of me, I couldn’t understand why it took Ford 16 years to try and contact Abe again.
Onwards to the next audio- because it seems that this series is exactly the right kind of smiley I need in my life right now 💗
It was probably one of the sweetest second chance romances I’ve ever read - Ford, one of the aforementioned group of friends, co-owner of Shore Things and resident surf teacher, never forgot about Abe, the nerdy guy he fell in love with at the end of highschool, and who - for some reason - broke off contact with him afterwards.
Funny thing though - their mums are best friends, and that’s how Ford hears about Abe having a bad time after a shitty breakup. So the mums and Ford band together to get Abe to spend a week at Shore Things to clear his head - and give Ford the opportunity what went wrong all these years ago.
Turns out, Abe hasn’t forgotten about him either.
And happily ever after they lived 😂
It’s very low on drama, even the “evil ex” only plays a minor role. Instead, we have two extremely lovable men in their thirties, falling in love again, and this time, dealing with it like grownups.
There’s a lot of banter, laughter, and some extremely hot encounters, because of course there are. One thing I love about this series: while each book is focused on one couple, the friends play a part, too, and the found family vibes and the way they stand up for each other is heartwarming.
Still, I can’t quite rate it with 5 stars - the reason they broke up with each other all these years ago feels… idk. Unsatisfying. For once, I’d probably would have loved more flashbacks to help me understand 🤷♀️ And for the life of me, I couldn’t understand why it took Ford 16 years to try and contact Abe again.
Onwards to the next audio- because it seems that this series is exactly the right kind of smiley I need in my life right now 💗
August 26, 2022
See my review for books 1 - 4 of the Shore Thing series HERE.
July 16, 2022
Best one yet
Second chance romance is definitely one of my favourite tropes and especially when it's a 'no blame' reason for why they didn't make it the first time round.
Here we get to see Ford and Abe reconnect and come to realise that, while they were utterly smitten by each other 16 years earlier, they weren't in the right place to make it.
Now though, everything is aligned perfectly for their reunion and ultimate happiness.
I hope Jaclyn picks up this series again soon as there's still two guys waiting on their happy ever after.
Second chance romance is definitely one of my favourite tropes and especially when it's a 'no blame' reason for why they didn't make it the first time round.
Here we get to see Ford and Abe reconnect and come to realise that, while they were utterly smitten by each other 16 years earlier, they weren't in the right place to make it.
Now though, everything is aligned perfectly for their reunion and ultimate happiness.
I hope Jaclyn picks up this series again soon as there's still two guys waiting on their happy ever after.
March 25, 2022
“He was comfort and memories and happiness all rolled into one hell of a sexy man”
The whole Shore Things gang is amazing but Ford and Abe were especially fun. The chemistry was off the charts and I laughed the whole way through.
The Nerd and the Jock have never been so perfect for one another. 16 years after failing to admit they loved each other and walked away, they were reunited (thanks to some wonderful scheming!). And boy does it feel like destiny. The playful snark, the intense connection all makes this a wonderful book.
Abe, recently out of a terrible relationship and just going through the motions finally sees what living and happiness should look like. Ford seems to have it all, living on the beach, working with the most awesome group of friends, but there was always the nagging question of why he hadn’t been enough for that one guy. When he gets his second chance…pure joy.
Of course, the awesome case of supporting characters helps make this book so great. The ride-or-die best friends, the hilarious sister Gabby and of course wonderful Miss Margie. Though this book can be read on its own, you’ll want to get to know these awesome characters too.
I loved every minute of this book. If you are looking for an upbeat book, this is the one for you.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
The whole Shore Things gang is amazing but Ford and Abe were especially fun. The chemistry was off the charts and I laughed the whole way through.
The Nerd and the Jock have never been so perfect for one another. 16 years after failing to admit they loved each other and walked away, they were reunited (thanks to some wonderful scheming!). And boy does it feel like destiny. The playful snark, the intense connection all makes this a wonderful book.
Abe, recently out of a terrible relationship and just going through the motions finally sees what living and happiness should look like. Ford seems to have it all, living on the beach, working with the most awesome group of friends, but there was always the nagging question of why he hadn’t been enough for that one guy. When he gets his second chance…pure joy.
Of course, the awesome case of supporting characters helps make this book so great. The ride-or-die best friends, the hilarious sister Gabby and of course wonderful Miss Margie. Though this book can be read on its own, you’ll want to get to know these awesome characters too.
I loved every minute of this book. If you are looking for an upbeat book, this is the one for you.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
March 28, 2022
Fluffy and sweet and really really nice to read!
June 8, 2023
History may not have been the best subject in high school...
But when Ford and Abe continued to reminisce about their study time together their senior year and summer before going to different colleges 16 years ago, it made getting together again almost as simple as nights in the tree house playing games and shaking leaves.
They thought that their friendship was unnoticed and innocent under the excuse of Abe tutoring Ford so he could graduate. But the real lessons were mutual satisfaction with few books being opened and much physical exercise in close proximity.
Both mothers recognized the happiness, attitudes, secrecy, frequency, and close companionship followed by gloomy solitude, depression, few friends, and miserable activities after splitting up for college.
Ford's friends provide him a lot of support, but he never revealed his loneliness, even when Levi tried to get his attention. But a secret plan to get Abe to visit the Cove for a free stay in the Inn changed the future for all the gang by building on the good past history while changing attitudes.
Just spending quality time together and with the gang in support can make life and love so much better on the beach.
But when Ford and Abe continued to reminisce about their study time together their senior year and summer before going to different colleges 16 years ago, it made getting together again almost as simple as nights in the tree house playing games and shaking leaves.
They thought that their friendship was unnoticed and innocent under the excuse of Abe tutoring Ford so he could graduate. But the real lessons were mutual satisfaction with few books being opened and much physical exercise in close proximity.
Both mothers recognized the happiness, attitudes, secrecy, frequency, and close companionship followed by gloomy solitude, depression, few friends, and miserable activities after splitting up for college.
Ford's friends provide him a lot of support, but he never revealed his loneliness, even when Levi tried to get his attention. But a secret plan to get Abe to visit the Cove for a free stay in the Inn changed the future for all the gang by building on the good past history while changing attitudes.
Just spending quality time together and with the gang in support can make life and love so much better on the beach.
June 28, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
This audiobook is delicious from beginning to end. Ford is the “fun friend” who’s always good for a laugh, so it’s awesome to really get into his head and recognize how insecure he truly is, and how much Abe had meant –and still means– to him. The narration really added the depth Ford needed to move beyond the wise-cracking joker he constantly projects to keep the eyes of his pals off him. Abe’s just as nervous as Ford once he meets up with his old lover. He’s got some years on him and, plus, his last relationship ended in traumatic fashion. Could Ford find him attractive? Would a fling be more danger to his heart after all this time, especially after what he’s experienced recently? Kirt Graves did a great job as narrator translating that vulnerability into the audio.
Read Veronica’s audio review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
This audiobook is delicious from beginning to end. Ford is the “fun friend” who’s always good for a laugh, so it’s awesome to really get into his head and recognize how insecure he truly is, and how much Abe had meant –and still means– to him. The narration really added the depth Ford needed to move beyond the wise-cracking joker he constantly projects to keep the eyes of his pals off him. Abe’s just as nervous as Ford once he meets up with his old lover. He’s got some years on him and, plus, his last relationship ended in traumatic fashion. Could Ford find him attractive? Would a fling be more danger to his heart after all this time, especially after what he’s experienced recently? Kirt Graves did a great job as narrator translating that vulnerability into the audio.
Read Veronica’s audio review in its entirety here.
March 25, 2022
Can we all say SWOON?! What an amazing book about a second chance between two man who's HEA needed a few years to come by this turned out to be.
Everything about Ford and Abe was amazing. The banter, friendship, love and hot moments were all on point and to see Ford all nervous at the beginning was cute as h*ll. I loved the way Abe stood up for himself when he was confronted with his past. But what I loved the most was the way Ford's friends accepted his as one of theor own.
Now as I finished the epilog I'm so excited to start the next book in the series (#nopressure)!!!
Everything about Ford and Abe was amazing. The banter, friendship, love and hot moments were all on point and to see Ford all nervous at the beginning was cute as h*ll. I loved the way Abe stood up for himself when he was confronted with his past. But what I loved the most was the way Ford's friends accepted his as one of theor own.
Now as I finished the epilog I'm so excited to start the next book in the series (#nopressure)!!!
January 18, 2024
Rating - 2.5 stars rounded up.
Nothing bad to say about this one. Just meh.
I love this group of guys and will finish the series but Ford & Abe weren't my favorite couple. I just didn't feel the chemistry between them. Which is unfortunate because I really like Ford and was super excited for his book.
The side characters and drama was even less in this one which was nice but the relationship aspect was a bit lacking.
Now onto sweet Noah's book!
Nothing bad to say about this one. Just meh.
I love this group of guys and will finish the series but Ford & Abe weren't my favorite couple. I just didn't feel the chemistry between them. Which is unfortunate because I really like Ford and was super excited for his book.
The side characters and drama was even less in this one which was nice but the relationship aspect was a bit lacking.
Now onto sweet Noah's book!
January 15, 2024
Cute second chance romance. They left it a long time to talk about why they fell apart the first time but it made sense
Read
December 27, 20234 stars for the series
Another series binge-read from this author.
Another series binge-read from this author.
April 2, 2022
Beachin’ Funtastic
I’ll tell what I want, what I really, really want: more Ford and Abe. Oh, and maybe a trip to Coral Pointe Inn. And a front row seat to Abe’s yoga, nngh, and Ford’s, well, anything with water really, double nngh. Alright, I admit I can’t stop and want it all with them.
“This is only for me. This mouth and the sexy way it curves up in the corners… It’s mine. No one else’s.”
His eyes darkened, his lids half-mast when he whispered back, “It always was.”
Ooh, Abe and Ford’s second-chance romance has me all flustered and I loved it every single part of it. It’s the perfect blend of lighthearted, heartwarming, sexy and swoony fun. From the easygoing vibe they have to how they fit so smoothly and love so completely, everything about them has me feeling all the heart happy feels. I love this series, these people and wish I could be a part of their amazing found family. But at least there’s always chocolate chip cookies and Happy Meals.
I’ll tell what I want, what I really, really want: more Ford and Abe. Oh, and maybe a trip to Coral Pointe Inn. And a front row seat to Abe’s yoga, nngh, and Ford’s, well, anything with water really, double nngh. Alright, I admit I can’t stop and want it all with them.
“This is only for me. This mouth and the sexy way it curves up in the corners… It’s mine. No one else’s.”
His eyes darkened, his lids half-mast when he whispered back, “It always was.”
Ooh, Abe and Ford’s second-chance romance has me all flustered and I loved it every single part of it. It’s the perfect blend of lighthearted, heartwarming, sexy and swoony fun. From the easygoing vibe they have to how they fit so smoothly and love so completely, everything about them has me feeling all the heart happy feels. I love this series, these people and wish I could be a part of their amazing found family. But at least there’s always chocolate chip cookies and Happy Meals.
March 25, 2022
"He was comfort and memories and happiness all rolled into one hell of a sexy man".
Damm man.. this Shore Thing series was my favourite low-agnst series and especially this book is my new favourite 😍
I love Ford and Abe❤️ there just the best thing ever. I love how they connect since the moment they met again 16 years later 👌
This series and the Character's were well written we readers can connect to them from the very first line.
I love how much the friends of Ford accept Abe in there circle so easily 😍 I loved it..❤️❤️❤️
Right now I'm looking forward to the next book which I think gonna be Noah's book..I am Excited 😁😁😁
#I received ARC for GRR in return of honest review
Damm man.. this Shore Thing series was my favourite low-agnst series and especially this book is my new favourite 😍
I love Ford and Abe❤️ there just the best thing ever. I love how they connect since the moment they met again 16 years later 👌
This series and the Character's were well written we readers can connect to them from the very first line.
I love how much the friends of Ford accept Abe in there circle so easily 😍 I loved it..❤️❤️❤️
Right now I'm looking forward to the next book which I think gonna be Noah's book..I am Excited 😁😁😁
#I received ARC for GRR in return of honest review
April 6, 2022
I expected more angst in this one and was delighted to be wrong, as I've read a few heavier books lately and needed something light and easy. I loved the way Ford and Abe reconnected and honestly expressed their feelings for each other as they didn't all those years ago. Their second chance will make you smile and feel warm and sunshiny.
August 29, 2022
Cóż, tym razem leżak nie był zbyt wygodny 😜
Nie byłam jakąś wielką fanką Abe'a, a do tego oś, wokół której cała historia została zbudowana, była po prostu słaba. Napięcie było ustawiane przez większość książki, żeby wyjaśnić, co takiego się stało, że Abe zerwał kontakt te 16 lat temu, a kiedy w końcu do tego doszło, to nie dość, że rozczarowanie było duże, to w dodatku przeszli błyskawicznie nad tym do porządku dziennego...
Nie byłam jakąś wielką fanką Abe'a, a do tego oś, wokół której cała historia została zbudowana, była po prostu słaba. Napięcie było ustawiane przez większość książki, żeby wyjaśnić, co takiego się stało, że Abe zerwał kontakt te 16 lat temu, a kiedy w końcu do tego doszło, to nie dość, że rozczarowanie było duże, to w dodatku przeszli błyskawicznie nad tym do porządku dziennego...
April 20, 2022
3.5 stars
August 13, 2022
Another 3.5 read for me, rounded up to 4.
I love Jaclyn’s books, I do. I’ve really enjoyed this series so far, but I feel like I saw some things in this one that I was honestly sad to see. It’s clear to spot the influences of other authors / her beta readers. The whole “howling” and “busting out” in laughter is all them, it’s not the way Jaclyn wrote at the start. I feel like these books are starting to be more basic mainstream, as opposed to the gritty and real way she used to write.
This story however is super cute, and I got it, I did. My husband and I were also together in HS, and found each other again after 12 yrs. It really is odd how you kinda just fall right into the relationship, almost as if no time had passed. Abe and Ford were just adorable. All the guys coming together to support Ford was also great.
So - repetition, because we’re constantly reminded Ford was a jock, all star, and Abe was his opposite. The whole laughter thing all over the book. A little boring, super safe, definitely predictable. All these things kept me from rating this any higher.
I love Jaclyn’s books, I do. I’ve really enjoyed this series so far, but I feel like I saw some things in this one that I was honestly sad to see. It’s clear to spot the influences of other authors / her beta readers. The whole “howling” and “busting out” in laughter is all them, it’s not the way Jaclyn wrote at the start. I feel like these books are starting to be more basic mainstream, as opposed to the gritty and real way she used to write.
This story however is super cute, and I got it, I did. My husband and I were also together in HS, and found each other again after 12 yrs. It really is odd how you kinda just fall right into the relationship, almost as if no time had passed. Abe and Ford were just adorable. All the guys coming together to support Ford was also great.
So - repetition, because we’re constantly reminded Ford was a jock, all star, and Abe was his opposite. The whole laughter thing all over the book. A little boring, super safe, definitely predictable. All these things kept me from rating this any higher.
March 31, 2022
I have a short list of fictional towns I would love to live in, based solely on the books about them. Coral Pointe is one of them. However, as I can't actually live there, I have to make due with visiting them in books. And Flustering Ford was just as welcoming and amazing as the previous two books in this series, welcoming me back to the warm beaches of Coral Pointe and making me fall in love with yet another amazing pairing.
Flustering Ford follows Ford and Abe, two high school almost-sweethearts who reconnect after over a decade apart. Of course, their reunion was not happenstance. In fact, Ford completely planned it - with the help of his and Abe's moms and Abe's little sister, Gabby. He didn't know what would come of the week trip, just that he had a question he needed answered.
Ford and Abe were both wonderful characters and they balanced one another really well. You could feel the chemistry between them. They were both incredibly snarky towards one another, but in a way that had genuine affection underneath it. This was a second-chance romance, but there were no bad feelings about one another going in. There were questions from their past, but the past didn't cast a long shadow over the present.
As always, the best part of this book was more than just the romance. It was the deep friendship between the five boys - and now Aiden and Sage. The way their group welcomed Abe (and Gabby) with open arms was heartwarming and showed that the friendship is the beating heart of this series.
This is a dual POV love story with low angst, a nice amount of spice, and a second chance romance with a found family behind it all. So take a trip to Coral Pointe with this book. It is the third in a series, though it can be read as a standalone. You'll just appreciate the side characters a lot more - and there's some tidbits about Abe and Ford in Landing Levi (book 2) that sets this book up.
** DISCLAIMER: I was given an ARC of this book by GRR for fair review. **
Flustering Ford follows Ford and Abe, two high school almost-sweethearts who reconnect after over a decade apart. Of course, their reunion was not happenstance. In fact, Ford completely planned it - with the help of his and Abe's moms and Abe's little sister, Gabby. He didn't know what would come of the week trip, just that he had a question he needed answered.
Ford and Abe were both wonderful characters and they balanced one another really well. You could feel the chemistry between them. They were both incredibly snarky towards one another, but in a way that had genuine affection underneath it. This was a second-chance romance, but there were no bad feelings about one another going in. There were questions from their past, but the past didn't cast a long shadow over the present.
As always, the best part of this book was more than just the romance. It was the deep friendship between the five boys - and now Aiden and Sage. The way their group welcomed Abe (and Gabby) with open arms was heartwarming and showed that the friendship is the beating heart of this series.
This is a dual POV love story with low angst, a nice amount of spice, and a second chance romance with a found family behind it all. So take a trip to Coral Pointe with this book. It is the third in a series, though it can be read as a standalone. You'll just appreciate the side characters a lot more - and there's some tidbits about Abe and Ford in Landing Levi (book 2) that sets this book up.
** DISCLAIMER: I was given an ARC of this book by GRR for fair review. **
March 26, 2022
✍ • 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 •
𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐄: Flustering Ford.
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: Jaclyn Quinn.
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤.
Ford Ashton
They say you never forget your first. I’ve tried everything to get Abe Manning off my mind. Now he’s here, in Coral Pointe Inlet, staying in the inn that I co-own with my four best friends. I need to know what happened all those years ago, because if the saying is true, how was it so easy for Abe to forget about me?
Abe Manning
A free trip to Coral Pointe Inlet, the shore town that is the very definition of paradise, is exactly what I need. The best part being there’s no chance of running into two lying liars who lie. That is, until my past shows up on the beach with a sexy smile and an unexpected confession. It was, a temptation I’d never been able to deny. I have to admit, though, it’s incredible to know I still have the ability to fluster Ford.
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬.
Ford meets his Childhood. . . Well not quite sweetheart as they never made it official, again after sixteen years apart.
Abe and Ford have the kind of connection fairytales are made of and I was there for it all.
Add in exceptional side characters like Gabby, Abe incredible sister and you've got yourself a heartfelt winner in my eyes.
𝐖𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤.
Definitely. I will admit I didn't feel this one quite as much as the first two but i still very much enjoyed my time between it's pages. It and the others in the series are not to be missed by any lover of true romance.
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐎𝐟.
•Contemporary Romance.
• Beach Town Vibes.
• Steamy Read.
• Second Chance.
• Childhood Sweethearts.
• MM Romance.
𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐄: Flustering Ford.
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: Jaclyn Quinn.
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤.
Ford Ashton
They say you never forget your first. I’ve tried everything to get Abe Manning off my mind. Now he’s here, in Coral Pointe Inlet, staying in the inn that I co-own with my four best friends. I need to know what happened all those years ago, because if the saying is true, how was it so easy for Abe to forget about me?
Abe Manning
A free trip to Coral Pointe Inlet, the shore town that is the very definition of paradise, is exactly what I need. The best part being there’s no chance of running into two lying liars who lie. That is, until my past shows up on the beach with a sexy smile and an unexpected confession. It was, a temptation I’d never been able to deny. I have to admit, though, it’s incredible to know I still have the ability to fluster Ford.
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬.
Ford meets his Childhood. . . Well not quite sweetheart as they never made it official, again after sixteen years apart.
Abe and Ford have the kind of connection fairytales are made of and I was there for it all.
Add in exceptional side characters like Gabby, Abe incredible sister and you've got yourself a heartfelt winner in my eyes.
𝐖𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐈 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤.
Definitely. I will admit I didn't feel this one quite as much as the first two but i still very much enjoyed my time between it's pages. It and the others in the series are not to be missed by any lover of true romance.
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐎𝐟.
•Contemporary Romance.
• Beach Town Vibes.
• Steamy Read.
• Second Chance.
• Childhood Sweethearts.
• MM Romance.
April 6, 2022
I’m going to start this by saying, when you have the choice between Delaware and Coral Pointe, please for the love of goodness always choose Coral Pointe. 😆 For real, that was my favorite part of this whole book. That Abe and Ford are from Delaware, and Abe still lives there. As a born, bred and still living in Delaware, native, I can easily say Coral Pointe sounds like heaven compared to here. 🙃 That’s just me of course.
My second favorite thing about this book is just Abe and Ford in general. They’ve won first place in couples in this series for me. I absolutely adore these two the most. They have such an easy familiarity, sunshine type of feel good vibe going on. Their story is a second chance romance in a way, although when they were first together as teenagers they spelled it out as a way to try out each other’s bodies and experience a man for the first time. But both of them secretly felt so much more, this deep love that never went away. So when they “run into each other” again it’s so easy for them to slide back into what they had before. But this time they aren’t going to make the same mistakes.
Lastly, my other favorite is of course this wonderful group of Coral Pointe residents. From the Walkie Talkies, to the original best friends, to the add on love interests, to the new side characters that pop up - everyone in Coral Pointe is delightful. I love how they all do their part to make sure the couple ends up happy forever.
And gosh, ughhh, the absolute perfection of this couple. I had big smiles. Loved this one.
Looking forward to the next. I’ve got my eyes on Hunter. He better not hurt our precious Noah. 👀
My second favorite thing about this book is just Abe and Ford in general. They’ve won first place in couples in this series for me. I absolutely adore these two the most. They have such an easy familiarity, sunshine type of feel good vibe going on. Their story is a second chance romance in a way, although when they were first together as teenagers they spelled it out as a way to try out each other’s bodies and experience a man for the first time. But both of them secretly felt so much more, this deep love that never went away. So when they “run into each other” again it’s so easy for them to slide back into what they had before. But this time they aren’t going to make the same mistakes.
Lastly, my other favorite is of course this wonderful group of Coral Pointe residents. From the Walkie Talkies, to the original best friends, to the add on love interests, to the new side characters that pop up - everyone in Coral Pointe is delightful. I love how they all do their part to make sure the couple ends up happy forever.
And gosh, ughhh, the absolute perfection of this couple. I had big smiles. Loved this one.
Looking forward to the next. I’ve got my eyes on Hunter. He better not hurt our precious Noah. 👀
April 3, 2022
Ford and Abe's second-chance romance was seriously adorable, and I had so much fun watching them reconnect in the Florida sunshine. Ford may have been anxious about his sneaky plan to get Abe to Coral Pointe, but it was all worth it to see the way he practically fell all over himself to convince Abe to give him a chance. Their reunion was a pleasant mix of vacation-mode romance and heartfelt conversations, and it was hilarious to watch as Gabby and all of Ford's friends kept meddling to make sure they got extra time together. For two high school sweethearts who drifted apart, Ford and Abe sure did fall back into each other's orbits with ease, and my god was the sexual chemistry intense. Best of all, I could tell how much fun the two of them were having together, and it made me so happy to see that relaxed, playful energy come out in full force. I do think I should have read this series in order, because a lot of the interactions between Ford's friends were lost on me, but even without that context it was easy to fall in love with Abe and Ford. I'm glad this story extended past the vacation, because I was worried Ford and Abe wouldn't be able to make a long-distance relationship work given their history. It goes without saying that I shouldn't have worried, because these two lovestruck sweethearts couldn't go more than a couple of hours without talking to each other and found a way to make their situation work long-term.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
March 27, 2022
Ms. Quinn has a way of writing her character that make them relatable to the readers, their emotions so realistic, and they easily dig into the reader's heart and find a home.
Ford and Abe relationship was so sweet, low angst, and super hot. Life, fear, and doubt may have previously pulled them apart but not this time. Especially not after all the hard work that the moms, sister, and Ford put into their little scheme, lol. Loved that we got to see Abe rediscover himself and confront his past. And Ford was there to support and cheer him every step of the way. We also got to see the vulnerable side to Mr. funny, unflappable Ford. I was just wanted to hug him when he got all nervous and doubtful. But his friends were there to lend their support, create interventions, and made up conventions 😂. I really loved that they were also there for Abe. Abe (and his sister, Gabby) fit in perfectly with the amazing group of guys we fell in love with since meeting them in the 1st book, Convincing Cole. Like in previous books there's so much hilarious banter between them, had me cracking up. I can't wait for the next story. Burke and Jared has me rooting for their hate but so much chemistry relationship. But Im also so intrigued about Noah with Hunter?... and maybe an additional sexy guy (yes please)
This book can be read as a stand alone but highly recommend to read the previous books to get the full impact of the strong and loving friendship between the guys.
Ford and Abe relationship was so sweet, low angst, and super hot. Life, fear, and doubt may have previously pulled them apart but not this time. Especially not after all the hard work that the moms, sister, and Ford put into their little scheme, lol. Loved that we got to see Abe rediscover himself and confront his past. And Ford was there to support and cheer him every step of the way. We also got to see the vulnerable side to Mr. funny, unflappable Ford. I was just wanted to hug him when he got all nervous and doubtful. But his friends were there to lend their support, create interventions, and made up conventions 😂. I really loved that they were also there for Abe. Abe (and his sister, Gabby) fit in perfectly with the amazing group of guys we fell in love with since meeting them in the 1st book, Convincing Cole. Like in previous books there's so much hilarious banter between them, had me cracking up. I can't wait for the next story. Burke and Jared has me rooting for their hate but so much chemistry relationship. But Im also so intrigued about Noah with Hunter?... and maybe an additional sexy guy (yes please)
This book can be read as a stand alone but highly recommend to read the previous books to get the full impact of the strong and loving friendship between the guys.
April 4, 2022
**3.5 stars
This was another great addition to this series with the shenanigans of these 5 friends and Ford getting a second chance with his high school crush. I love the friendship dynamic of these guys and the way they love and support each other, it really adds another layer to each of their stories.
Ford is considered the fun one, always ready with a joke to deflect, but he’s forced to face his past when he invites his old high school fling to stay at his hotel. Feeling like Abe is the one who got away, he wants to finally get some answers as to why Abe ghosted him all those years ago. Abe is coming out of a double betrayal of his best friend and boyfriend and faced with his past during his so-called vacation. As soon as these two reunite it’s like no time has passed, but tough conversations need to be had if they wanna move forward.
Ford and Abe were fun together and both held insecurities, but I love that Ford was bold enough to finally say how he felt and lay it all out there. I also appreciated that there was no unnecessary drama, but two adult men trying to figure things out and not letting another opportunity pass them by. This had me smiling and swooning and had some great moments with the guys.
I know Noah’s story is probably next, but damn it I want Burke and Jared’s story ASAP. This series has been light and fun with great characters to root for. I’m looking forward to more.
This was another great addition to this series with the shenanigans of these 5 friends and Ford getting a second chance with his high school crush. I love the friendship dynamic of these guys and the way they love and support each other, it really adds another layer to each of their stories.
Ford is considered the fun one, always ready with a joke to deflect, but he’s forced to face his past when he invites his old high school fling to stay at his hotel. Feeling like Abe is the one who got away, he wants to finally get some answers as to why Abe ghosted him all those years ago. Abe is coming out of a double betrayal of his best friend and boyfriend and faced with his past during his so-called vacation. As soon as these two reunite it’s like no time has passed, but tough conversations need to be had if they wanna move forward.
Ford and Abe were fun together and both held insecurities, but I love that Ford was bold enough to finally say how he felt and lay it all out there. I also appreciated that there was no unnecessary drama, but two adult men trying to figure things out and not letting another opportunity pass them by. This had me smiling and swooning and had some great moments with the guys.
I know Noah’s story is probably next, but damn it I want Burke and Jared’s story ASAP. This series has been light and fun with great characters to root for. I’m looking forward to more.
March 29, 2022
This is the third book in the series. I did not read the first two (though I am going to now) and I was able to fully appreciate the story and the characters in this book.
This is a second chance romance. Ford and Abe were friends in HS who lost touch after leaving for college. Each sees the other as the one who got away. When Abe unknowingly ends up at the inn that Ford and his friends own on a vacation things heat back up between the two.
I enjoyed the story though it did move a bit slowly at times and there was a bit of repetitiveness. But mostly it was a moving story about two people getting a second chance and found family. The friendship between the five friends is a very attractive element of the book. Abe is getting over the heartbreak of his boyfriend cheating on him with his best friend and the unhappiness in his life now as a result of moving an hour away from his sister and parents in an effort to avoid seeing the exes. Ford desperately wants to know why Abe cut off contact with him after they left for college. So both of the MCs have hearts and feelings that need mending.
The story between the MCs is sweet and this was an easy, light read. I’ll definitely go back and read the first two books to catch up on the guys’ stories and will look forward to the next book in the series.
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
This is a second chance romance. Ford and Abe were friends in HS who lost touch after leaving for college. Each sees the other as the one who got away. When Abe unknowingly ends up at the inn that Ford and his friends own on a vacation things heat back up between the two.
I enjoyed the story though it did move a bit slowly at times and there was a bit of repetitiveness. But mostly it was a moving story about two people getting a second chance and found family. The friendship between the five friends is a very attractive element of the book. Abe is getting over the heartbreak of his boyfriend cheating on him with his best friend and the unhappiness in his life now as a result of moving an hour away from his sister and parents in an effort to avoid seeing the exes. Ford desperately wants to know why Abe cut off contact with him after they left for college. So both of the MCs have hearts and feelings that need mending.
The story between the MCs is sweet and this was an easy, light read. I’ll definitely go back and read the first two books to catch up on the guys’ stories and will look forward to the next book in the series.
**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
March 25, 2022
The saying goes, “You Never Forget Your First” and no one knows that better than Ford. In Flustering Ford, we have a sweet fun story of two men who truly never forgot each other, even after 16 years apart. Ford and Abe had a secret High School Romance that ended suddenly. Years later with a little help from their closest people, they are given a second chance. I think everyone wonders what that would be like with at least one person in their lives. I loved how the author wrote Ford as this normally confident guy, who just can’t seem to keep it together when in the presence of Abe. It shows that emotions can definitely override our better sense sometimes when they get involved. Abe admitting his insecurities and Ford showing him how much he truly was worth just pulled at my heartstrings. I missed the first 2 books in this series, but it didn’t affect my enjoyment of this one. Now I just have to go back and see what I missed! Looking forward to seeing what life brings for the other men in the Love Thing series.
March 26, 2022
This series has been one of my favorites! I have adored every minutes of reading these incredible books! And this one..Ford and Abe…they have been the most fun in this series! These two have to be my favorites! Second chance romances are one of my favorite tropes and this one was done oh so perfectly! Ford and Abe get their second chance after they walked away form each other 16 years ago. They couldn’t admit they loved each other and ultimately decided to walk away. Now 16 years later they are reunited and it feels like this was always the way it was meant to be. They have such an intense connection and off the charts chemistry. They are absolutely perfect together. I adored this book so much and I am so excited Ford and Abe got their happily ever after!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 1st Person Dual POV
Standalone or series: Book 3 in the Shore Thing series
Would I recommend it: 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Most definitely!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 1st Person Dual POV
Standalone or series: Book 3 in the Shore Thing series
Would I recommend it: 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Most definitely!
March 28, 2022
This was great until it took a turn toward the end that I didn’t appreciate! The author made a decision on behalf of the MC that I overall thought was absolutely ridiculous and quite pathetic, so it completely tanked and destroyed the book for me!! I get where she’s coming from from a romantic standpoint but I still found it to be quite ridiculous, quite unreasonable, quite pathetic, and quite unrealistic! So that decision in terms of its far-reaching impact was something that I found to be quite obnoxious, quite aggravating, and quite absurd… not to mention quite nonsensical!! I found the author’s decision in that aspect to be pretty pathetic and irritating and I feel like it destroyed a lot of the groundwork that she built so wonderfully until that point!! She did something wonderful only to completely undo and destroy it from my perspective!! I feel like the friend group deserved much much much much more consideration and they deserved much MUCH better!! I’ll elaborate at a later date, but that’s it for now!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2022
Ford and Abe both noticed and were attracted to one another in high school. They even fooled around the summer before they left for college. But they let each other go. Abe didn't think the popular jock would want to hold on to him and would forget him when they went off to school. Ford realizes that letting Abe go without saying anything has left him pining for the one that got away. Sixteen years later a paid vacation brings Abe to where Ford is working and one of the owners of the resort. This gives them a second chance to see if what they were feeling is still there. These two have major unfinished business that they need to resolve and the feelings are still there. They love one another and they want to be together. They get a lot of help from their friends and loved ones to help them realize that they belong together. The secondary characters are fun, caring and support these guys as they find their way. I will now go back and read the stories that come before this one in the series.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
May 3, 2022
Ford and Abe went to the same high school and were seniors together. Both noticed each other and for a while in the summer before they go off to college they spend all of their free time together, making love and just being together. But Abe changes that by ghosting Ford after college starts and they are at different colleges. Sixteen years goes by. Both men have moved on but both still think back on that time and that special summer. No one has ever really taken the others place. Both of their mothers and Ford trick Abe into coming to Ford's inn for a weeks stay. Soon they are spending time together and both realize that that special spark was still there. There is just one big problem, Abe lives hours away from Ford.
The cast of friends that surround Ford is hilarious but very supportive not only of Ford but of Abe too. I really enjoyed book and can't wait for the next one!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The cast of friends that surround Ford is hilarious but very supportive not only of Ford but of Abe too. I really enjoyed book and can't wait for the next one!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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