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Silver Foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff #1
40 and [Tired of] Faking It
Welcome to Black Wolf’s Bluff, where turning forty doesn’t mean your life is over. It might just mean the spark that can light up everything is right around the corner.
She’s turning forty.
Lily Easton’s series of lackluster boyfriends ended three years ago with the ex from hell—self-absorbed, thoughtless, and seriously bad in bed. After she dumped him, he told everyone in their small town she was the horrible lover. Being made the dating-pool pariah allowed her to focus on her goal of becoming the first female mayor of Black Wolf’s Bluff, but with that accomplished, the arrival of Lily’s fortieth birthday is a stark reminder of everything she’s still lacking: love, commitment, and some seriously intense orgasms.
He's here to do a job.
John David Lane walked away from Black Wolf’s Bluff thirty years ago, determined to find his own success and leave behind the family who hated him. Now he’s back, but not to stay. He plans to turn the family estate he has inherited into a high-end resort, the kind that would completely transform this backwoods town. To succeed, he’ll need the help of the “lady mayor,” but he didn’t count on the desire for something far more personal with Lily than political negotiations.
Dive into an all-new small-town romance that proves falling in love isn’t impossible after forty — and neither are seriously intense orgasms!
She’s turning forty.
Lily Easton’s series of lackluster boyfriends ended three years ago with the ex from hell—self-absorbed, thoughtless, and seriously bad in bed. After she dumped him, he told everyone in their small town she was the horrible lover. Being made the dating-pool pariah allowed her to focus on her goal of becoming the first female mayor of Black Wolf’s Bluff, but with that accomplished, the arrival of Lily’s fortieth birthday is a stark reminder of everything she’s still lacking: love, commitment, and some seriously intense orgasms.
He's here to do a job.
John David Lane walked away from Black Wolf’s Bluff thirty years ago, determined to find his own success and leave behind the family who hated him. Now he’s back, but not to stay. He plans to turn the family estate he has inherited into a high-end resort, the kind that would completely transform this backwoods town. To succeed, he’ll need the help of the “lady mayor,” but he didn’t count on the desire for something far more personal with Lily than political negotiations.
Dive into an all-new small-town romance that proves falling in love isn’t impossible after forty — and neither are seriously intense orgasms!
203 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2022
645 people are currently reading
577 people want to read
About the author
Ella Sheridan
35 books407 followersElla Sheridan never fails to take her readers to the dark edges of love and back again. Strong heroines are her signature, and her heroes span the gamut from hot rock stars to alpha bodyguards and everywhere in between. Ella never pulls her punches, and her unique combination of raw emotion, hot sex, and action leave her readers panting for the next release.
Born and raised in the Deep South, Ella writes romantic suspense, erotic romance, and hot BDSM contemporaries. Start anywhere—every book may be read as a standalone, or begin with book one in any series and watch the ties between the characters grow.
★ Anything can happen in the shadows of a sultry Southern night. Explore the heat with the SOUTHERN NIGHTS romantic suspense series.
★ Secrets and sex abound in the SECRETS TO HIDE contemporary romance series.
★ Dark desires come to the fore in IF ONLY, a BDSM contemporary series.
“The perfect blend of suspense and romance.” – Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
“Ms. Sheridan writes suspense that grabs you and won't let go.” – Tea and Book
“The perfect kind of naughty…with [characters] that have great chemistry.” – Alpha Book Club
“A great plot, likable characters, witty banter, and seductively wicked love scenes—the perfect recipe!” – Blogging by Liza
Born and raised in the Deep South, Ella writes romantic suspense, erotic romance, and hot BDSM contemporaries. Start anywhere—every book may be read as a standalone, or begin with book one in any series and watch the ties between the characters grow.
★ Anything can happen in the shadows of a sultry Southern night. Explore the heat with the SOUTHERN NIGHTS romantic suspense series.
★ Secrets and sex abound in the SECRETS TO HIDE contemporary romance series.
★ Dark desires come to the fore in IF ONLY, a BDSM contemporary series.
“The perfect blend of suspense and romance.” – Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
“Ms. Sheridan writes suspense that grabs you and won't let go.” – Tea and Book
“The perfect kind of naughty…with [characters] that have great chemistry.” – Alpha Book Club
“A great plot, likable characters, witty banter, and seductively wicked love scenes—the perfect recipe!” – Blogging by Liza
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
May 23, 2022
I am truly grateful and glad that there are more and more romance books featuring mature characters so I was excited when I was given the chance to read and review 40 and (Tired of) Faking It, the first book in Ella's new series. While it focuses on Lily and JD, it also introduces the small town of Black Wolf's Bluff which will be the setting for all the books as well as their friends, some of whom will get their own story soon. Lily and JD are both very likeable and relatable characters and it was great to see how both changed and grew through their relationship. There is tension and steam between the main characters from the get-go as well as a bit of a bully to take care of so that this book stays entertaining and engaging from the first to the last page. I definitely look forward to Claire's story next!
May 31, 2022
I didn't even know what I was getting myself into when I signed up for this. I just knew that it was 40-year olds, I needed it. I was not disappointed. There is chemistry, lust, sweetness, steam, and so much more in this small town. JD and Lily took sucked me in from the beginning and now I can't wait for more.
Want to read
April 3, 2022MC’s over 40 - yes please!!!!
May 21, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! It reminded me of a SPICY hallmark (but better). It wasnt cheesy. It was well written. It was nice reading something that didn't make my heart race, make me sob. Or get me angry. I absolutely love the town and the characters. It would be a town I'd love to live in. I also loved reading about characters closer to my age instead of barely adults. JD and Lily are perfect and I cannot wait for Claire's story next.
March 3, 2023
Quick, low angst read
I was intrigued by the focus of this series, silver foxes, yes please. this was my first time reading this author and I am quite happy with the book. It moved at a steady pace and had small town issues with a bit of drama. Add to it mature active MCs and I was.good.
I was intrigued by the focus of this series, silver foxes, yes please. this was my first time reading this author and I am quite happy with the book. It moved at a steady pace and had small town issues with a bit of drama. Add to it mature active MCs and I was.good.
June 1, 2022
Sooooooo I was a bit worried about this read considering that I know this author and her suspense/action stories and didn’t know what to expect with none of that in this new series….BUT I was VERY pleasantly surprised and shouldn’t have been worried….LOVED IT. No it doesn’t have suspense, action, security or assassins….what it does have is mature adults who prove that being older doesn’t mean that romance/lust is dead.
JD has inherited his family’s estate in a small town and he has big plans for it, building a resort on it. He has the planning committee to win over and most importantly the mayor. What he doesn’t expect is the mayor, Lily, to be an attractive mature woman who has more going for her than any other woman he has ever dated…..can they keep it professional or will lines be crossed.
LOVED IT!!! Steam, lust/love, small town gossip and shenanigans, and best friends who have each other’s backs. I loved the no drama, no miscommunication between these two, openness and honesty, protectiveness and both characters shine personally and professionally. KUDOS to the author.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
JD has inherited his family’s estate in a small town and he has big plans for it, building a resort on it. He has the planning committee to win over and most importantly the mayor. What he doesn’t expect is the mayor, Lily, to be an attractive mature woman who has more going for her than any other woman he has ever dated…..can they keep it professional or will lines be crossed.
LOVED IT!!! Steam, lust/love, small town gossip and shenanigans, and best friends who have each other’s backs. I loved the no drama, no miscommunication between these two, openness and honesty, protectiveness and both characters shine personally and professionally. KUDOS to the author.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
June 3, 2022
I wish there was a JD around when I hit 40. When I saw the author talking about a new series with 40-somethings, I couldn't wait to read it. Given the chance to read an advanced copy has been great.
Lily is the mayor of the small town where JD is from and he now owns the property that was his grandparents after their deaths. JD and his partners/BFFs want to take the property and make it into a 5-star resort. He has to win over the mayor and get a chance to talk to the planning committee.
Lily wants the resort but she wants JD to see that the small town has a lot of skilled workers that he doesn't need to get elsewhere. So she will show him around town and introduce him to these people.
There is a connection from the very first meeting between Lily and JD, and it grows from a spark into a blazing fire. Lisy has her best friends backing her and JD has a couple of friends that want to see this resort get off the ground too.
I love that authors can venture into the world of older characters and make the storyline work. This author has done that and more. I was pulled in from the beginning and didn't want it to end, I had to know what happened with Lily and JD and with the planning committee. The story has just the right amount of steam and lust and you can't forget the bully in Lily's ex, which shows how JD wants to protect her when someone trie to hurt her. As the story is based around JD and Lily, you get the tour of the town of Black Wolf's Bluff, which JD's resort will put on the map.
I can not wait for the next book to see what happens with Claire and Linc.
**I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.**
Lily is the mayor of the small town where JD is from and he now owns the property that was his grandparents after their deaths. JD and his partners/BFFs want to take the property and make it into a 5-star resort. He has to win over the mayor and get a chance to talk to the planning committee.
Lily wants the resort but she wants JD to see that the small town has a lot of skilled workers that he doesn't need to get elsewhere. So she will show him around town and introduce him to these people.
There is a connection from the very first meeting between Lily and JD, and it grows from a spark into a blazing fire. Lisy has her best friends backing her and JD has a couple of friends that want to see this resort get off the ground too.
I love that authors can venture into the world of older characters and make the storyline work. This author has done that and more. I was pulled in from the beginning and didn't want it to end, I had to know what happened with Lily and JD and with the planning committee. The story has just the right amount of steam and lust and you can't forget the bully in Lily's ex, which shows how JD wants to protect her when someone trie to hurt her. As the story is based around JD and Lily, you get the tour of the town of Black Wolf's Bluff, which JD's resort will put on the map.
I can not wait for the next book to see what happens with Claire and Linc.
**I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.**
March 24, 2025
40 and [Tired of] faking It, is the first book in the Silver Foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff Series.
Successful businessman John David Lane (JD) returns to his hometown with plans to turn the family land into a high end resort. First he’ll have to get his plans past the town council, and his first meeting is with the mayor.
Lily, Black Wolf’s Bluff’s mayor, loves her town and only has its interests at heart, so she is determined to make JD see that his plans must involve the many talented residents of her small town. What neither was expecting was to feel a strong romantic attraction. Can they keep their business and personal lives separate in a town where nothing remains a secret for long?
A quick read at around 200 pages, for those who enjoy romance with a touch of heat.
Successful businessman John David Lane (JD) returns to his hometown with plans to turn the family land into a high end resort. First he’ll have to get his plans past the town council, and his first meeting is with the mayor.
Lily, Black Wolf’s Bluff’s mayor, loves her town and only has its interests at heart, so she is determined to make JD see that his plans must involve the many talented residents of her small town. What neither was expecting was to feel a strong romantic attraction. Can they keep their business and personal lives separate in a town where nothing remains a secret for long?
A quick read at around 200 pages, for those who enjoy romance with a touch of heat.
May 30, 2022
This is book one in The Silver Foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff series and it is Lily and John's story and what a great start to a new series and definitely a must read. Lily is the first female mayor in Black Wolf's Bluff but when her ex boyfriend decides to spread rumours it makes her life even more difficult and she will have to work even harder not only because she is a woman but also to be successful. John or JD as he is called is a real estate developer and he is back in a town that holds so many had memories so he wants to get in do his job and then get out as soon as possible but things don't always go as planned. I absolutely loved that this story is about a more mature couple and the chemistry between JD and Lily was so strong right from the start and it was really great to watch there relationship grow and JD and Lily with it and it just shows that life really can begin at 40. I couldn't put this book down and the characters and storyline pulled you in right from the start and kept your attention throughout and I felt like I was living in the town with them all and going through there life's ups and downs and I can't wait to read the next book in this series and I definitely recommend you read this book and you will not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
February 4, 2023
I have to admit that after reading the blurb for this story I knew that I have to read it... because over 40 - year young characters. And I needed it like yesterday, because I missed the memo that I'm older when I turned 40 . So now getting in my next decade I won't miss this opportunity . So reading this book is like research . Anyway I didn't know what I'm getting myself into when I signed up for this. Thanks to Give Me Books Promotions I found a new favorite author and a new series . This story is a page turner and I was pulled in from the first page. I don't have to say that I read it in one sitting. 40 and ( Tired of ) Faking It by Ella Sheridan is the story of Lily, a small town mayor and JD , a big city real estate developer . The town of Black Wolf's Bluff is a character of its own and after reading about it you will want to move there no matter what are the ins and outs of living in a small town . I loved the town and the characters. Lily and JD are great characters and they both grew through their relationship. JD found love for this town and his people in himself and saw the opportunities there. Lily found the strength to fight the small town politics prejudice and towns gossip . I absolutely loved Lily and JD's story and can't wait for the next book in Silver Foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff series.
I received an ARC copy of this book by Give Me Books Promotions in exchange of an honest review.
I received an ARC copy of this book by Give Me Books Promotions in exchange of an honest review.
Read
November 19, 2025Soft dnf at 45%. Every male character introduced in this book is a POS bordering on caricaturistic. And the female characters aren’t much better. They all this far have zero backbone or sense of self confidence. Personally, when reading characters over 40 I expect them to treat others and themselves with a modicum of respect.
May 31, 2022
This book is a great read. I love that the characters are older. JD didn’t have a loving childhood. He had been married before and that didn’t work because of his work. So, he has just been focusing in on that for a long time. Now that he has inherited his grandparents land, he and his friends have a plan. He has to go back to Black Wolf Bluff and get the plan in motion. Lily is the “lady Mayor” and JD and his friends refer to her. She loves her town and how she helps them. She has always wanted to be in local politics. Her love life has never been anything exciting. Then she and JD meet. She wants to help him see how there are people in town who can help him with the resort he wants to build instead of bringing in people. While doing that they find they have a connection. Could they find their one? Could they be more than business associates? The characters in this book are fantastic. I can’t wait to read more about them in future books. Lily’s friends are great and so funny. JD is finding something he has always wanted a home. Ella has done a fantastic job with this book.
May 31, 2022
Being new to Ms.Sheridan’s work i’ve been looking so forward to picking up her books! As soon as i stumbled across the synopsis for this book i knew i had to read it first! I picked it up as soon as i could and got into the Silver Foxes of Black Wolf’s Bluff world! I enjoyed this story!
Lily and JD’s journey grabbed my attention from the get go! These two are brought into each other’s lives when JD goes to Lily who is the mayor to help with turning his family home into a resort. I couldn’t wait to see how things would play out for these two!
I wasn’t sure what all to expect in their story and i really liked how that got me into it even more! I really liked the realness of their story. The chemistry between these two was undeniable!
With Silver Foxes of Black Wolf’s Bluff, Ms.Sheridan has created such a good read! I am so looking forward to picking up more of her books!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Give Me Books Promotions / the author*
Lily and JD’s journey grabbed my attention from the get go! These two are brought into each other’s lives when JD goes to Lily who is the mayor to help with turning his family home into a resort. I couldn’t wait to see how things would play out for these two!
I wasn’t sure what all to expect in their story and i really liked how that got me into it even more! I really liked the realness of their story. The chemistry between these two was undeniable!
With Silver Foxes of Black Wolf’s Bluff, Ms.Sheridan has created such a good read! I am so looking forward to picking up more of her books!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Give Me Books Promotions / the author*
May 30, 2022
What a beautifully written story. The way the scenes were set was wonderful and brought the town and the people to life for me. The plot is good and moved at a nice pace.
The characters were all relatable and lovable… well, the majority of them anyway, there’s always a person to despise in a good book. JD and Lily are both respectable, mature people. Lily is the town Mayor and JD is a property developer and when they meet it’s like .. BOOM! Chemistry.
The town of Black Wolf Bluff is just how I imagine a small town; everyone knows and judges everyone else, gossiping and putting two and two together to make ten. Interfering, but lovable, old ladies who are the hub of information and the great community spirit.
The side characters of Lily’s friends, Erin, Claire, Marie and scarlet and JD’s best friends, Carter & Linc are funny and wonderfully supportive to their friends and that is very heartwarming.
I enjoyed this book. I suspect the series will be sweet and sensitive with lots of laughs and ‘awww’ moments.
The characters were all relatable and lovable… well, the majority of them anyway, there’s always a person to despise in a good book. JD and Lily are both respectable, mature people. Lily is the town Mayor and JD is a property developer and when they meet it’s like .. BOOM! Chemistry.
The town of Black Wolf Bluff is just how I imagine a small town; everyone knows and judges everyone else, gossiping and putting two and two together to make ten. Interfering, but lovable, old ladies who are the hub of information and the great community spirit.
The side characters of Lily’s friends, Erin, Claire, Marie and scarlet and JD’s best friends, Carter & Linc are funny and wonderfully supportive to their friends and that is very heartwarming.
I enjoyed this book. I suspect the series will be sweet and sensitive with lots of laughs and ‘awww’ moments.
June 4, 2022
40 and (Tired of) Faking It
I couldn't wait to start this series, with the premise of "older" couples. And Ella Sherdan did not disappoint me.
Lilly, mayor of the town, has been disappointed in search of love so has focused on her job. JD, real estate developer, is a past resident of the town, returning to develop his inheritance. Instant sparks fly, but they must overcome small town mindset and his reluctance to stay.
Can't wait to read more in this series.
I couldn't wait to start this series, with the premise of "older" couples. And Ella Sherdan did not disappoint me.
Lilly, mayor of the town, has been disappointed in search of love so has focused on her job. JD, real estate developer, is a past resident of the town, returning to develop his inheritance. Instant sparks fly, but they must overcome small town mindset and his reluctance to stay.
Can't wait to read more in this series.
July 20, 2024
3.5 Stars
1. Older MCs
2. Town politics
3. Found Family
4. FMC, mayor
5. MMC building a resort
6. Amazing side characters
7. I liked that Older couples are getting the love they need, but the book was too fast for me. The MMC was averse to relationships and he just suddenly fell for FMC. Wanted it to be longer
1. Older MCs
2. Town politics
3. Found Family
4. FMC, mayor
5. MMC building a resort
6. Amazing side characters
7. I liked that Older couples are getting the love they need, but the book was too fast for me. The MMC was averse to relationships and he just suddenly fell for FMC. Wanted it to be longer
June 1, 2022
This is the first in a new series, Lily and JD’s story. Both are over 40 and think their time for true love has passed. However, Ella writes a delightful story, and the sparks fly between these two very quickly! This is an engaging story with relatable characters, family, friendships, tension, emotions, and love. We can count on Ella to deliver a steamy and entertaining page-turner every time she puts pen to paper! I look forward to reading more from this very talented author whose work I enthusiastically recommend.
June 1, 2022
My first book by this author.
I love her style of writing and I'm totally in love with Black Wolf's Bluff.
Can't wait to read more about this small town.
JD and Lily are made for each other. They have instant attraction when they first meet.
A very positive point is, that both maincharacters are older (48 and 40) and stand on their own feet, know what they want in life.
Like every small town, BWB has its own unique residents and this fact makes the story around our maincharacters even more interesting.
I love her style of writing and I'm totally in love with Black Wolf's Bluff.
Can't wait to read more about this small town.
JD and Lily are made for each other. They have instant attraction when they first meet.
A very positive point is, that both maincharacters are older (48 and 40) and stand on their own feet, know what they want in life.
Like every small town, BWB has its own unique residents and this fact makes the story around our maincharacters even more interesting.
May 31, 2022
This was such a sweet and steamy read! Finding love after 40 with Lily and JD in this happy and quirky small town romance had me sighing and swooning all over the place! I can tell this is going to be a series I’m going to be looking forward to each new story! I can’t wait to go back to Black Wolf’s Bluff!
May 31, 2022
Awesome!
JD and Lily have a beautiful love story. They are matched well and have a genuine journey.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
JD and Lily have a beautiful love story. They are matched well and have a genuine journey.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
June 2, 2022
Loved this book! Loved the town and omg that passion between JD and lily burned the pages!!! Amazing book and as always the best HEA!
June 3, 2024
If you're looking for an over 40 couple, you may be disappointed with 40 represented in this book.
The book started off strong, but then the 40 year old FMC is so insecure and inexperienced. So we are supposed to believe this 1 insignificant guy who she broke up with in her 30s, who she didn't even love, and he who is also mid 30s nows bullies her? LOL And although she's an educated, strongly independent mayor, she's just a little baby in her romantic mind? Nope I couldn't buy that at 40, and it's too highschool for me
The MMC is perfectly 48 in his confidence and experience. I wish she was written the same and then it'd be a real over 40 romance.
There is a lot of good that happened in this book, it's just that premise was at the back of my mind the whole time I was reading it, and that bothered me.
Because of the good, I give it 3 stars and have bought the next book in the series in hope the FMC is more of a 40s mindset, but I would not reread this one
The book started off strong, but then the 40 year old FMC is so insecure and inexperienced. So we are supposed to believe this 1 insignificant guy who she broke up with in her 30s, who she didn't even love, and he who is also mid 30s nows bullies her? LOL And although she's an educated, strongly independent mayor, she's just a little baby in her romantic mind? Nope I couldn't buy that at 40, and it's too highschool for me
The MMC is perfectly 48 in his confidence and experience. I wish she was written the same and then it'd be a real over 40 romance.
There is a lot of good that happened in this book, it's just that premise was at the back of my mind the whole time I was reading it, and that bothered me.
Because of the good, I give it 3 stars and have bought the next book in the series in hope the FMC is more of a 40s mindset, but I would not reread this one
January 14, 2023
3.5 stars
Older established characters. Lily is the first female mayor of her small town. She is single and just turned 40. Her past boyfriends left a lot to be desired.
JD returns home after 30 years. He inherited the family mansion and land. He and his friends want to build a ski resort. He needs the mayor and the town council on his side.
A little bit of insta love, small town gossip and throw in some double standards and get entertained.
Easy too read, not too much angst, likable characters
Older established characters. Lily is the first female mayor of her small town. She is single and just turned 40. Her past boyfriends left a lot to be desired.
JD returns home after 30 years. He inherited the family mansion and land. He and his friends want to build a ski resort. He needs the mayor and the town council on his side.
A little bit of insta love, small town gossip and throw in some double standards and get entertained.
Easy too read, not too much angst, likable characters
May 1, 2023
one biggest annoyance about these books and age in general ...nothing totally rude or mean to say ...but it is the point of 40 is not old. if i could get folks to get that ...man ...oh man i would love it. i have never, and i say never stamping my feet ...like a child ...have i ever said 40 was old. my grandparents ...well grandfather ...Pop-Pop ...my Dad's Dad ...he got to 98 ... and that is old ...dirt old. LOL!! i think age is but a number ...but these authors ...who told them to say that 40 was old. like i know folks die at any old age but FORTY ...forty is not old. why i say this ...we need to teach our kids that just because 40 is supposed to be old doesn't mean, that we need to be rude to folks of that age ...we can learn from folks of any age. any age ...be open to learning. listen. be open to hearing and trying to understand, if you don't ... please be kind and ask questions. always. PLEASE. not yelling just saying with much understanding and asking for pleasing pleases. LOL!! please. any who ...i am trying to decide which of these 2 from this series i enjoyed more ...can i pick this one because the guy is hotter??! that seems cool. right??! do you know some of the folks i know over the age of 40 are in better health that younger spring chicken folks??! that says something, right??! i think so. no judgement for folks who wish to do stuff to themselves be it eye lifts or this or that ...but i think that true beauty is the folks who run and keep up with themselves. health being a priority. and taking care of themselves. either way ...because she or he (whichever you wish to put in there, you decide) does a lift or tuck ...or even if she/he doesn't love who you are. & don't look down upon either of those decisions. respect folks be kind and be nice. enjoyable read. both of them from this series. i had a few credits so the first i had for free and the 2nd a few pennies off there. will read more from ES soon.
June 10, 2022
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
As a forty-something, it is great to imagine what it is like to be young again, but sometimes you need a read where the characters are at the same point in life as you are. That's why I was really excited to read this first installment in Ella Sheridan's Silver Foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff.
JD just inherited his grandparents' estate and is trying to convert it into a high-end resort. To make that happen, he needs the approval of the town's planning committee, and the first step is to get into the mayor's good graces.
It turns out Mayor Lily is not at all what he expected. She is beautiful, smart, and driven to bring good things to her town. To win her over will take some work from JD, but can he do it without involving his heart?
I thoroughly enjoyed being along for the ride as these two navigated together through their history and baggage. JD's heart is hardened from his childhood and failed marriage, while Lily is skeptical of the opposite sex because of a manipulative ex. It was great to see them figure out how to heal from those traumas.
I especially love that Ella Sheridan did not shy from the spice just because this was an over-40 story. Yes for spicy mature romance!
This was a great read, and I look forward to meeting the other silver foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Ella Sheridan and Give Me Books Promotions for providing an ARC. **
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
As a forty-something, it is great to imagine what it is like to be young again, but sometimes you need a read where the characters are at the same point in life as you are. That's why I was really excited to read this first installment in Ella Sheridan's Silver Foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff.
JD just inherited his grandparents' estate and is trying to convert it into a high-end resort. To make that happen, he needs the approval of the town's planning committee, and the first step is to get into the mayor's good graces.
It turns out Mayor Lily is not at all what he expected. She is beautiful, smart, and driven to bring good things to her town. To win her over will take some work from JD, but can he do it without involving his heart?
I thoroughly enjoyed being along for the ride as these two navigated together through their history and baggage. JD's heart is hardened from his childhood and failed marriage, while Lily is skeptical of the opposite sex because of a manipulative ex. It was great to see them figure out how to heal from those traumas.
I especially love that Ella Sheridan did not shy from the spice just because this was an over-40 story. Yes for spicy mature romance!
This was a great read, and I look forward to meeting the other silver foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Ella Sheridan and Give Me Books Promotions for providing an ARC. **
November 11, 2025
3.5⭐
40 And (Tired Of) Faking It is book 1 in the Silver Foxes Of Black Wolf's Bluff series and it was such a smooth read. I really enjoyed the fact that the characters were 40+ . I thought it was highly refreshing to see more mature characters that communicate and don't play games. Discovering the new small town of Black Wolf's Bluff was a delight, meeting the side characters and falling for Lily & JD was great. I just thought it was a low stake read that wasn't dramatic, didn't tug at my emotions or didn't make my heart race and truly I appreciated that. It was just what I needed.
I loved the growth that they both experienced through their relationship. How they each realized that they are not their previous partners and that they could truly be good together. There's definitely tension between both characters, the chemistry is there and the spice was hot. The highlight of this story for me was there is no drama, no miscommunication, no lies or dishonesty between Lily & JD. The openness, communication and understanding between them was truly a standout for me.
Overall, I am so glad I gave this new series a try and decided to venture into more mature character romance. I am excited to see where the author takes the series and the next love stories !
🎧 The narration by Willa James & Oliver Highpoint was good. I won't lie at the beginning. I felt like the emotions felt a little off, but then I feel like they got into their characters more and truly brought them to life. The emotions were then portrayed perfectly. They both have great voices that are easy to listen to and they blended well together.
✨️ Thank you to @mustloveaudio & Ella Sheridan for my gifted ALC in exchange for an honest review.
40 And (Tired Of) Faking It is book 1 in the Silver Foxes Of Black Wolf's Bluff series and it was such a smooth read. I really enjoyed the fact that the characters were 40+ . I thought it was highly refreshing to see more mature characters that communicate and don't play games. Discovering the new small town of Black Wolf's Bluff was a delight, meeting the side characters and falling for Lily & JD was great. I just thought it was a low stake read that wasn't dramatic, didn't tug at my emotions or didn't make my heart race and truly I appreciated that. It was just what I needed.
I loved the growth that they both experienced through their relationship. How they each realized that they are not their previous partners and that they could truly be good together. There's definitely tension between both characters, the chemistry is there and the spice was hot. The highlight of this story for me was there is no drama, no miscommunication, no lies or dishonesty between Lily & JD. The openness, communication and understanding between them was truly a standout for me.
Overall, I am so glad I gave this new series a try and decided to venture into more mature character romance. I am excited to see where the author takes the series and the next love stories !
🎧 The narration by Willa James & Oliver Highpoint was good. I won't lie at the beginning. I felt like the emotions felt a little off, but then I feel like they got into their characters more and truly brought them to life. The emotions were then portrayed perfectly. They both have great voices that are easy to listen to and they blended well together.
✨️ Thank you to @mustloveaudio & Ella Sheridan for my gifted ALC in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2023
Review of 40 and (Tired of) Faking It by Ella Sheridan
* * * * *
A slow burn small town romance between a strong indepandant woman and a money-making silver fox.
Lily was not that happy about reaching 40, and was still trying to deal with her job as being a successful and positive mayor. It didn't help when her ex's father keeps storming into her office but nothing was going to really change that. She had good friends, an addiction to chocolate, and a good job.
Then walks in JD.
His parents were rich and influental, now thankfully, also dead. He has inherited their estate and plans to make a ski resort, and is in need to discuss his plans with the lady major. He just didn't expect her to be so beautiful. Meet her friends and family, seeing the small town more than just a what he has already assumed it to be, he's find reasons on maybe staying...and Lily could just be one big one.
Really enjoyed the long lead to Lily and JD's eventual breaking point where things finally heat up! Lily, I completely understand your desire for chocolate. I get you! I feel so sorry for JD and he so needs a hug. His grandparents sucked and he just needs a little parental love that he sees Lily gets with her gramps.
* * * * *
A slow burn small town romance between a strong indepandant woman and a money-making silver fox.
Lily was not that happy about reaching 40, and was still trying to deal with her job as being a successful and positive mayor. It didn't help when her ex's father keeps storming into her office but nothing was going to really change that. She had good friends, an addiction to chocolate, and a good job.
Then walks in JD.
His parents were rich and influental, now thankfully, also dead. He has inherited their estate and plans to make a ski resort, and is in need to discuss his plans with the lady major. He just didn't expect her to be so beautiful. Meet her friends and family, seeing the small town more than just a what he has already assumed it to be, he's find reasons on maybe staying...and Lily could just be one big one.
Really enjoyed the long lead to Lily and JD's eventual breaking point where things finally heat up! Lily, I completely understand your desire for chocolate. I get you! I feel so sorry for JD and he so needs a hug. His grandparents sucked and he just needs a little parental love that he sees Lily gets with her gramps.
November 30, 2025
40 and (Tired of) Faking It by Ella Sheridan
Silver Foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff, Book 1
Narrated by Willa Jaymes and Oliver Highpoint
Approximate Listen time: 6 hours
Here are a few reasons why you will love this book......
First the tropes:
🩵 over 40/later in life romance
🩵 small-town/mountain resort romance
🩵 playboy reformed
🩵 intellectual heroine
🩵 fake relationship
🩵 found family/friendships
🩵 outsider in a small town
I had the absolute pleasure of listening to this on audio told in dual style narration by Willa Jaymes and Oliver Highpoint. The story is about 2 people ...Over 40 who just click. Tenir chemistry and their banter had me really enjoying this story. The ups and downs of dating when your older can be tough and I loved this take on that. The friend group turned found family is one of my favorite tropes and this book has that in abundance. We got a glimpse of future couples and I am really looking forward to their own stories. This is a fun and fast read. You don't have to think much about what is going on, you get to just enjoy having someone tell you a great story.
Silver Foxes of Black Wolf's Bluff, Book 1
Narrated by Willa Jaymes and Oliver Highpoint
Approximate Listen time: 6 hours
Here are a few reasons why you will love this book......
First the tropes:
🩵 over 40/later in life romance
🩵 small-town/mountain resort romance
🩵 playboy reformed
🩵 intellectual heroine
🩵 fake relationship
🩵 found family/friendships
🩵 outsider in a small town
I had the absolute pleasure of listening to this on audio told in dual style narration by Willa Jaymes and Oliver Highpoint. The story is about 2 people ...Over 40 who just click. Tenir chemistry and their banter had me really enjoying this story. The ups and downs of dating when your older can be tough and I loved this take on that. The friend group turned found family is one of my favorite tropes and this book has that in abundance. We got a glimpse of future couples and I am really looking forward to their own stories. This is a fun and fast read. You don't have to think much about what is going on, you get to just enjoy having someone tell you a great story.
June 9, 2022
40 and (Tired) if Faking it
I read this book specifically because of the title! I was excited to see an author finally writing about an older couple finding happiness! And that’s exactly what I got!!
JD is almost 50, a successful entrepreneur in his own right and still sexy as hell!! His grandmother dies leaving him a house and land in a small town in Tennessee. He and his business partners decide they want to build a resort on the land, and he goes to the town to speak to the mayor and the planning commission board about it!
Enter Lily, the mayor of the town. She too is in her 40’s and has chosen he public life over having a family and kids. She’s fiercely protective over her town and plans to protect it.
When the two meet sparks fly, but both being older, and having established careers in different places, can they make a connection based on more than the lust they feel for each other??
I enjoyed finding out and look forward to more books in this particular series! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I read this book specifically because of the title! I was excited to see an author finally writing about an older couple finding happiness! And that’s exactly what I got!!
JD is almost 50, a successful entrepreneur in his own right and still sexy as hell!! His grandmother dies leaving him a house and land in a small town in Tennessee. He and his business partners decide they want to build a resort on the land, and he goes to the town to speak to the mayor and the planning commission board about it!
Enter Lily, the mayor of the town. She too is in her 40’s and has chosen he public life over having a family and kids. She’s fiercely protective over her town and plans to protect it.
When the two meet sparks fly, but both being older, and having established careers in different places, can they make a connection based on more than the lust they feel for each other??
I enjoyed finding out and look forward to more books in this particular series! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 23, 2022
The best F-word is Forty...
This story celebrates the reality that you can fall in love after 40. I was doing a happy dance reading about Lily and JD. Lily thought she had lost her "mojo" after being accused of her lack of skills in the boudoir by her ex-boyfriend. She soon discovers her "mojo" was not dead, thank you very much. When she sets her eyes on JD, her girly bits stood to attention. He is drool worthy, sexy and when he looked you right in the eyes, it was panty melting.
JD returned to Black Wolf's Bluff to renovate and put life back into his family property. He needs the okay from the Mayor and the Committee. When he meets Lilly who is the Mayor, he is taken aback. She makes him feel things he thought were dormant. His plan was to finish the renovation and return home. But he is in for a major change in his plans.
Their story proves life really does begin at forty. Up until then you are just doing research anyways.
This story celebrates the reality that you can fall in love after 40. I was doing a happy dance reading about Lily and JD. Lily thought she had lost her "mojo" after being accused of her lack of skills in the boudoir by her ex-boyfriend. She soon discovers her "mojo" was not dead, thank you very much. When she sets her eyes on JD, her girly bits stood to attention. He is drool worthy, sexy and when he looked you right in the eyes, it was panty melting.
JD returned to Black Wolf's Bluff to renovate and put life back into his family property. He needs the okay from the Mayor and the Committee. When he meets Lilly who is the Mayor, he is taken aback. She makes him feel things he thought were dormant. His plan was to finish the renovation and return home. But he is in for a major change in his plans.
Their story proves life really does begin at forty. Up until then you are just doing research anyways.
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