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Sterling Mill #2

Call It Reckless

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From author M.E. Montgomery comes a single dad, small town romance novel set in her Sterling Mill Series.

Bristol Allen has always lived her life one way—full throttle. When two separate accidents end her career, she returns to her childhood home, Sterling Mill, TN to start over. Determined to forge a new life, she takes her skills from the racetrack and opens an auto garage—with a twist. The only thing to cause her to throw on the brakes in her life is the handsome deputy who seems to always catch her doing something he deems reckless. It turns out, the most reckless thing she could do is lose her heart to him and his adorable daughter.
Reid Braxton knows exactly what might happen if you don’t play it safe—you find yourself raising a little girl on your own. He doesn’t know much about how to bring up a daughter, but he’s determined to raise Lexi to be kind, sweet, and gentle—a lady like her mother. When Lexi comes home with a school assignment to interview the newest local business owner of Head to Tow Garage and Salon, Lexi’s immediately enamored with the beautiful, spirited, and stubborn woman he’s gone head to head with more than once.
Despite their differences, there’s no denying their chemistry. But will their attraction hold them together or are they headed for a collision?

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 12, 2022

20 people are currently reading
88 people want to read

About the author

M.E. Montgomery

28 books236 followers
M.E. Montgomery can’t remember a time she hasn’t had at least one book on the go to read. After years of falling headfirst into the lives and loves of other author’s characters, M.E. decided to write her own. She enjoys creating the kind of realistic storybook friends you wish you could actually meet, and sometimes she finds herself wondering what those characters are up to once she’s delivered their happily ever after.
She’s married to her best friend and has four children and two Boxer dogs. They live wherever the Navy sends her husband, usually the East coast of the U.S., but also once in Japan.
Whenever she’s not writing or substitute teaching, she often ponders the riddle of how the kitchen sink appears to automatically refill with dirty dishes as soon as her back is turned. On the occasions it stays empty, you can find her with a glass of wine or Scotch outside at their fireplace or curled up inside with a book, binge watching TV, or chatting with readers.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Lina.
674 reviews24 followers
July 16, 2022
And...M. E. Montgomery has done it again. I am literally in love with those series. I was soo excited to read Reid's story since book one. We also had returning characters from the previous book, which was great.

Bristol was feisty, independent and soo soo lovable. Reid was a good, sexy man and he was perfect for her. He did tried to fight the attraction that was brewing between them, but let's face it... he never stood a chance 😁.

I can't wait to read the other upcoming books from the series.

***ARC was provided in exchange for a honest review.***
Profile Image for Terry.
1,483 reviews
July 2, 2022
4 1/2 Stars for the Deputy and the mechanic.

I thought that Reid and Bristol were perfect for each other, even thought they kept butting heads. I also loved Reid's daughter Lexi ... she's a little spitfire, just like Bristol. I found the banter very realistic and the scenarios in small town living were just so true ... lol. The author really sets up future books nicely by introducing you to other characters in the town. A great addition to the series and I can't wait for the next book.

Reid is a Deputy in Sterling Mill and when his wife died several years ago, he was left to raise their daughter alone. He wants to make sure his daughter is well rounded, so he signs her up to learn the manners of a lady. Bristol was always a tomboy that was full of mischief, so no one was surprised when she joined her dad's car racing team. but after she has an accident and her dad dies, she decides its time to go home to be near her twin siblings and other relatives. Her best friend Paige joins her in Sterling Mill and they open a business together - a garage and a salon. When Reid and Bristol first meet, they are definitely not fans of each other. But it doesn't take long for their dislike for each other to become heated and they can't keep their hands off each other. Bristol is the opposite of Reid's former wife and fears that she won't measure up.

I received an early copy courtesy of Grey's Promotion in exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Belzebeaut.
73 reviews7 followers
July 14, 2022
ARC REVIEW
5⭐

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was funny, sweet, and light-hearted. I adored Bristol and Reid so much. They may be different but they love each other fiercely and after some thinking are finally ready to build a life together. I genuinely loved the pace of this book and how it ended. It just felt right, it really fits. I was actually disappointed it ended sooner than I would have liked. Also the plot twist at the end 👀

I loved all of the side characters (even Tillie😂), the animals were super cute! Very well written, heartwarming, with a little suspense just so good! I think I might just read it again! Highly recommended if you love small town romance and single dad trope❤

ps: Give me Griffin and Paige book please!!😏😂
Profile Image for Tannie&#x1f98b;.
508 reviews25 followers
July 11, 2022
This is a petition for “Griff” and Paige to have their own book. I’ll settle for Cam & Mac but oh I felt their chemistry.

ARC!!

Honestly, so refreshing reading this book! I loved it, so much!
In a few words: cute, simple, beautiful, bit spicy, single dad (simping!), mini drama/suspense and NO BREAKUP!!!

I read this in a couple of hours, and I couldn’t stop. I had shit to do but I honestly loved every single moment of it.
Bristol is a former race car engineer, she has suffered through so much loss in her life that she needed stability for a change, and she went back home.
Reid is our single, to Lexi, working as a deputy for his local police department. He dreamed of owning Bristol house, formerly owned by her grandparents, but what he never thought was to find such a beautiful young woman living there.
After a nightly encounter, they realized they needed to start over and so they did. Living in a small town means running into each other a lot, and that’s what happened.
They eventually worked it out and SLOWLY BUT BEAUTIFULLY became a couple.

This book is great to get you out of a slump, it’s honestly great light no drama read. I cannot say anything bad about.
Great characters, great plot and very well written.
And can I please get a Reid in my life?

“He had messed with my woman, and therefore, he had messed with me.” **triple swoon**

“And, I think she’d keep you from being so lonely. She likes the same things you do. Maybe you’ll fall in love and get married. Then I can have a baby brother or sister.” I covered my surprise with a cough. “Well, I, uh…” I had no clue how to answer that. Lexi rolled back over and curled up under her blanket. “Just think about it. I won’t be around forever”

Lexi was one the best parts of the book, but THEIR HONESTY AND SUPPORT FOR EACH OTHER!! Swoon

Profile Image for Nickie Sale.
873 reviews5 followers
July 1, 2022
This series is fast becoming a favorite for me. Bristol, Reid and Lexi's story starts when Bristol returns to her hometown, and her grandparents former home, after she had a nasty accident and her father died in seperate accident. Reid's wife Abby (and Lexi's mum) had also died six years previously. Reid is a deputy in Sterling Mill and meets Bristol the first night she is back. Bristol is almost the complete opposite of Reid's first wife Abby, neither are looking to form relationships but you can feel the chemistry between them sizzling, and can see both questioning themselves as to if they really want a relationship to form.

For a small town there is a lot going on, you get a really good insight into the loyality people in a small town have to each other. But you also see how "entitled" and "small minded" some people can be. It's clear that the women who Bristol has become is not the same women who left the town all those years ago, she has clearly grown a huge amount in that time and is ready to let this town know that not only is she back, but she is back to stay and will do all she can to be a positive influence on the town. There's also a background mystery of some illegal activity going on under the cover of the mountains, which is disturbing (putting it mildly) and will definatly make you angry.

The journey for Reid and Bristol is initially one with a high proportion of mis-understandings, before they finally both throw caution to the wind and admit their feelings. Without doubt Reid's daughter Lexi and Mayor Sterling do steal the show at times (bring on the weird looks from Hubby when I just couldn't help but burst out laughing). I found this a very easy read, and got immersed very quickly. Be prepared for some "leaky eyes" moments, as well as the laughs.
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,142 reviews68 followers
July 1, 2022
I just knew this series would have some more hilarity to offer, and I was right! Bristol has returned home after an incredibly successful career and an even more tragic loss, but she’s determined to find success with the dream she and her best friend, Paige, are building. She just needs to deal with a B&E culprit, the feathers he ruffles, and then maybe her heart. And her old BFF, Mayor Sterling.

Reid isn’t looking for anything quite like what landed in his lap. He’s worried about being a good dad, a good influence, and maybe not corrupting his daughter entirely. So he sure doesn’t need or want the complication that comes with Bristol. Especially not after he’s stuck his foot in his mouth several times. Sure, he’s absolutely drawn to her like a moth to a flame, but is she truly what he and Lexi need? Once he fumbles and realizes just how badly he hurt Bristol, though, he knows he’s all in. He just has a possible crime ring of the worst variety to bust, a past that’s collided with his present in an ugly way, and stubbornness to get over.

I really do love this series because we get the humor sprinkled in with the danger and angst, the small town vibe with the colorful characters and some crazy feuds, and very true-to-life feeling issues. This book served to make me want more and to hope beyond hope that maybe Paige and the man she thought she knew have a future. I look forward to a few couples and can’t wait to spend more time with our favorite mayor, unlikely allies, and the fun that is sure to accompany them.
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
2,000 reviews100 followers
July 12, 2022
A fun, quick, small-town, single dad read with just a hint of a mystery. The author is relatively new to me, but I love this series; she fills my small-town heart with her humor and Mayor Sterling.

Bristol is returning home to Sterling Mill, and it is time to start her second phase with a new business venture with her best friend. Reid is a single dad to Lexi and a local deputy. I was hooked on their story early on and finished it a little too quickly. Lexi is written beautifully, and the banter between Bristol and Reid is fun.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Mari (Mystics & Metaphysics Book Blog).
7,751 reviews170 followers
July 12, 2022
I love that the female is the speed and adventure junkie in this story and Reid is playing it safe because of his daughter. I am a sucker for a single dad! The story felt real and raw and I loved the banter and chemistry between Bristol and Reid. I couldn't put this down.
Profile Image for Reading  In the  Red Room .
3,051 reviews73 followers
July 3, 2022
This series is heating up! Bristol is moving back home and opening up a business. Bristol is a feisty independent former race car driver and I loved Her! She holds nothing back and regrets nothing. Reid is a sheriff’s deputy and a single father. When he meets Bristol he has no idea she’s about to change his world. Boy did I love These two together. They are the perfect example of opposites attract. I loved the relationship the Bristol had with his daughter. They were very sweet together. I enjoyed the fast paced writing style and the amazing characters. I love this group of friends and can’t wait to see where this series goes. I’m already looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,495 reviews50 followers
July 14, 2022
I absolutely loved Reid and Bristol's story. I loved them individually, their characters and when they were together. Especially Bristol because she's a bad*ss heroine. They're two complete opposites, no kidding. And I think that contributes to their banter and back and forth, and their chemistry and connection. I loved how amazing of a dad Reid is to Lexi and Bristol's relationship with her. The side characters add some fun to the story, especially Mayor Sterling! And the mystery/suspense aspect of the story also held my attention. I thoroughly enjoyed their story. I can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Crystal.
349 reviews33 followers
June 7, 2022
Okay, I am obsessed with this Sterling Mills series!!!

Loved the first one, and this one…. Reid and Bristol…. Obsessed!!

Small town
Single Dad
Bad a— heroine
Crazy feathered mayor 🤣🤣

I am here for this! If you like small town, pick this one up! I look forward to more from this author.
Profile Image for Philippa - (The British Bibliophile).
Author 4 books40 followers
July 11, 2022
*Thank you to Grey's Promotions for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and leave an honest review*
--------------------

Call it Reckless is book two in M.E.Montgomery's Sterling Mill series, and the first book in the series in which I have had the pleasure of reading.

From author M.E. Montgomery comes a single dad, small town romance novel set in her Sterling Mill Series.

What initially drew me in to wanting to give this book a read, aside from the stunning cover, was the unique blurb that promised something both unique and different. Namely, the roles that the characters will play in terms of their chosen careers and pasts. Bristol Allen--our leading lady--is not going down the all-to-familiar route of female character in books with a 'typical female' job, but is a fiery, independent, passionate racetrack gal with many laps under her belt. Simultaneously our leading man, Reid Braxton, is taking a similar different route as a single father. Usually in reads, it's the female who's the single parent and the male is the big hero who swoops in and saves the day.

Not this time.

'Bristol Allen has always lived her life one way—full throttle. When two separate accidents end her career, she returns to childhoodher home, Sterling Mill, TN to start over. Determined to forge a new life, she takes her skills from the racetrack and opens an auto garage—with a twist. The only thing to cause her to throw on the brakes in her life is the handsome deputy who seems to always catch her doing something he deems reckless. It turns out, the most reckless thing she could do is lose her heart to him and his adorable daughter'.

Bristol and Reid are both as similar as they are different. M.E.Montgomery has written two characters who both have careers that they're both passionate about and do with all of their hears, and their personalities are of similar creation. This will either mean one of two things, they'll spark and burnout, or they'll glow even brighter when brought together. You'll find out which it will be when you read this book, but I think that you as I was, will be pleased with how these two were written and where their story went.

'Reid Braxton knows exactly what might happen if you don’t play it safe—you find yourself raising a little girl on your own. He doesn’t know much about how to bring up a daughter, but he’s determined to raise Lexi to be kind, sweet, and gentle—a lady like her mother. When Lexi comes home with a school assignment to interview the newest local business owner of Head to Tow Garage and Salon, Lexi’s immediately enamored with the beautiful, spirited, and stubborn woman he’s gone head to head with more than once.'

For a first dive into this series, I have zero regrets on taking on a read that gave out way more than I had anticipated it would. Just when you think there is nothing more to come and all is said and done, a twist comes along to shake things up and scoot you along to the edge of your seat waiting to see how it plays out.

Call it Reckless was a read that never failed to entertain, kept you guessing, pulled at our bookish feels and was well worth getting to know Sterling Mill and its residents because believe me, this isn't a read that's all about the main characters on their own. As often in small towns, everyone plays a part and as much as I loved the main characters, the supporting characters made the story equally so.

Four stars!
Profile Image for Alejandra.
187 reviews
July 12, 2022
If you're looking for a book that has single dad tropes, small town, and a female lead who goes for what she wants, this is the book for you.
Bristol returns to the town where she grew up for much of her life after a series of unfortunate events, but she is not willing to let herself be overcome by those circumstances and together with her best friend they plan to open a mechanical workshop with a beauty salon in her town. What Bristol didn't count on was meeting Reid, a single dad who tries to educate his daughter so that she is independent but at the same time not forget the things that linked her to her deceased mother.
The first interactions between Bristol and Reid are so funny, always in awkward situations and resulting in conversations where both tried to provoke the other.
The story is interesting from beginning to end, the characters and the mysteries that are gradually being discovered keep you glued to the book, perhaps my only criticism would be that there were times when I didn't feel so much the connection and the chemistry of the protagonists, without However, it is a book that I really liked.
Thanks to Grey's promotion and the author for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Si estás buscando un libro que tenga las tropas de papá soltero, pueblo pequeño y una protagonista que va a por lo que quiere este es tu libro.
Bristol regresa al pueblo en donde crecio gran parte de su vida luego de una serie de desafortunados eventos, pero ella no está dispuesta a dejarse vencer por esas circunstancias y junto a su mejor amiga planean abrir un taller mecanico con salón de belleza en su pueblo. Con lo que no contaba Bristol era en encontrarse con Reid, un papá soltero que trata de educar a su hija para que sea independiente pero que a su vez no olvide las cosas que la unian a su fallecida mamá.
Las primeras interacciones entre Bristol y Reid son tan graciosas, siempre en situaciones poco convenientes y que resultaban en conversaciones en donde ambos trataban de probocar al otro.
La historia es interesante de principio a fin, los personajes y los misterios que poco a poco se van descubriendo te mantienen pegada al libro, quizá mi única critica sería que hubo momentos en donde no sentía tanto la conexión y la quimica de los protagonistas, sin embargo, es un libro que me gustó bastante.
Gracias a Grey's promotion y a la autora por darme este ARC a cambio de una reseña honesta.
Profile Image for Leslie || original book nerd.
918 reviews38 followers
March 12, 2023
Call It Reckless - Sterling Mill Series Book 2 - Review

Couple: Bristol Allen & Reid Braxton

Author: M.E. Montgomery

Tropes: single dad, small town, sheriff romance, ex-racer, forced proximity

Review: This book has all the feels. A small town, single dad romance with a twist where the found family is everything.

Widower and single dad Reid Braxton is the local sheriff and to say his meet cute with Bristol Allen is strained is an understatement. Little does he know that the new spitfire and ex-racecar driver turned mechanic is about to turn his world upside down.

Bristol Allen is the black sheep of the Allen family. She turned 18 and never looked back at the small town of Sterling Mill until tragic events bring her back home. She comes blazing into town with guns blazing just in time to meet the infamous sheriff that her cousin is BFFs with.

While the couple attempts to distance each other for various reasons, Reid’s daughter is what brings them together. Lexi quickly becomes attached to Bristol and the bada$$ female she is. She confides to her how she misses the outdoor and tomboy activities they got up to and wishes that Bristol and her dad were friends.

I think I vouch for everyone when I say that we all love a meddlesome kid in single parent romances. Lexi takes the cake though, she is adorable in her drive to get them together but also in her desire to pave her own way like Lexi.

The chemistry between Reid and Bristol is also off the charts and the character flaws they both have is tragic. Bristol has a hard time opening up to people and Reid has a hard time getting over his late wife. This book is a great read and the couple will blow a small town romance trope out of the speedway.

Rating: 5+/5, I loved this read and it made me want to read book 1 in the series
Profile Image for Deb Richmond.
672 reviews4 followers
July 12, 2022
Call it Reckless, book two in M.E. Montgomery’s Sterling Mill Series is a sweet romance set in the charming town of Sterling Mill which is inhabited with both delightful and quirky characters.

Bristol Allen grew up fixing things. She left Sterling Mill, got her engineering degree, and went to work for her famous race car driver father. After she was nearly killed in a freak accident and her father was killed in a plane crash, Bristol is returning home to open up a combination auto shop and beauty salon with her best friend Paige. As soon as she gets home, she begins having run-ins with Deputy Reid Braxton. They are two stubborn individuals who keep butting heads with one another. Slowly an attraction between the two builds, and a romance blossoms. Bristol can’t help herself as she falls in love with widower Reid and his daughter Lexi. Reid is working on a case that might be dangerous and might ultimately threaten Bristol and the entire town of Sterling Mill.

M.E. Montgomery has written some amazing characters. Main characters Bristol and Reid, along with their families, are wonderful. It’s great to see all the loving relationships. I really enjoy the quirky characters who live in Sterling Mill like Beverly Seymour (don’t get Beverly-ed) and Crazy Tillie who loves her raccoons and enjoys a good fight with mountain man and possible moonshiner Hans Zimmerman. There’s also Mayor Sterling, but you’ll have to read the book to find out about him! The book is just a delight to read. The romance is a slow burn, and it’s not too spicy, but you root for Bristol and Reid to succeed!

Let me know if you read Call it Reckless - I’d love to discuss!
Profile Image for Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’.
3,390 reviews2 followers
July 11, 2022
Bristol Allen is one of those women that just lives her life on high. She has been living with her dad on the racing circuit. But now that her dad has passed away she thinks its time to move back home and be with her family. So moving home and moving into her grandparents home and starting a new business is quit enough, right. Reid Braxton and his adorable daughter is not part of the plan… Right…

Reid Braxton is the deputy sheriff in Sterling Mill and a widower raising his little girl on his own. On a normal night patrolling he has a ‘interaction’ with Bristol Allen. Leaving her annoyed and him a bit attracted to the feisty women. He has his hands full with his daughter and trying to teach her to be more of a girl than the tomboy she is turning into. So he has no time for a sexy hardheaded stubborn women… Right…

I was hooked from the start with this one. I loved the beginning part of this story when Bristol and Reid meet and she totally puts him on his place, lol. His daughter Lexi is freaking adorable. I loved their father and daughter relationship. Bristol was such a force to be reckoned with and the way she interacted with Lexi was just too amazing. These two had so much chemistry but it was just for them to figure out where they wanted their relationship to go. All in all amazing story from start to finish 😊 So looking forward to the next one ❤❤

Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
Profile Image for Sharon Moritz-rosenthal.
2,268 reviews29 followers
July 12, 2022
This is my first read by this author and I truly loved it so much. Its a story that takes place in a small town with small town cop, Reid who is a single dad to a nine-year old daughter, Lexi who is adorable, and mature and such a sweetheart. Bristol is coming home to her small town after her dad and grandparents have died and where she also got into an accident that ended her race car career. She moves back home with her best friend and they open a new business in town.

Bristol and Reid do not start out as friends. I would not say they hate each other but rather they irritate each other. But they also share friends and in a small town you can't really avoid anyone.

I really enjoyed this story. It was a feel good romance with a side story about dog fighting in their small town and how Reid wants to catch the bad guys.

Bristol also gets some out of town visitors who are from the authors other series and I really enjoyed seeing them in the story though I did not know who they were when introduced. But I loved this story so much that I plan to read their stories as well.

If you love single dads finding love, adorable kids, and small-town romances then this was a wonderful story filled with romance, friends, family, love and the awesomeness of coming home to your small town.

I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for ♡︎ Kesa Subban ♡︎.
861 reviews54 followers
July 10, 2022
卂𝘳ᥴ 尺ꫀꪜ𝓲ꫀ᭙
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - Reid
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - Bristol
5 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧

𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐈𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝑩𝒚 𝑀.𝐸. 𝑀𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑔𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑟𝑦

After being away from home for years, staying by her fathers side, throughout his racing career, Bristol, has finally returned to her hometown Sterling Mill

Opening up a business, a unique one at that, she is determined to prove to everyone that she isn't that reckless girl, they once knew but a hardworking and independent woman, who has fought for her place and should be given respect in a male dominated world. And let's not forget stubborn.

Reid, is a sheriff's deputy, he has worked hard to get where he is in his life now, he lost his wife a few years ago and he also is a single dad, and the relationship he has with his daughter was beautifully written♥️

And Bristol relationship with Lexie was amazing as well♥️

Bristol and Reid's first meeting was just epic and they had no idea, how much they were about to change each other's lives by being the one for each other.

And let's not forget Major Sterling 😂😂

𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

Chase, Cam, Paige...and I choose to do this review a few days after reading this book and I forget some names I'm sure 😂 but I can't wait to read their books!!!

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🔫🔫🔫🔫🔫
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🚗🏎️🚗🏎️🚗
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧💧
Profile Image for Cheryl.
1,886 reviews18 followers
July 12, 2022
When Reid was introduced in book one of the Sterling Mill series, I was excited to read his story, as he seemed like an intriguing character. As we discover in Call It Reckless, he’s more complex than thought. This single father, sheriff’s deputy is a bit of a rough around the edges kind of guy. Nothing wrong with that at all. But he seems to think that he needs to raise his outgoing, slightly tomboyish daughter Lexi to be more like her deceased mom.
So when he meets new garage owner Bristol, he’s intrigued but feels that she’s not the right fit for himself or Lexi. But Lexi is enamored by this hardworking and interesting young woman, who may wear coveralls in her job, but still embraces her feminine side, which seems important to Reid.
As with book one, there is not a lot of outside drama pushing apart Reid and Bristol…it’s all internal. I like that Bristol helps Reid loosen the reins on Lexi, because Bristol’s connection with the daughter is as engaging as the one with father.
The steam is there, but it’s low key. The emphasis is on the feelings and overcoming first impressions. For me, the series is getting better with each new book release.
Profile Image for Curly Bibliophagist .
472 reviews4 followers
July 13, 2022
Bristol grew up in the small town of Sterling, Tennessee, where she had the reputation of being reckless. Her mother ran off when Bristol was little and she was raised by her father, who raced cars. She was a tomboy and didn't fit the mold of the lady her grandmother wanted her to be. She left town and followed her dad, working for his racing team as a mechanic/engineer. After being in catastrophic accident and then the death of her father, Bristol moves back home to open a garage geared towards women, with her best friend.

Reid is a widower raising his precocious daughter while working as a sheriff's deputy. He keeps running into Bristol in reckless situations but they can't deny the attraction they have. Reid is definitely riding the struggle bus raising a little girl but he'll do anything for her. When his daughter gets an assignment to interview Bristol, his daughter and Bristol hit it off.

I really liked this book! M.E. Montgomery is a new to me author and she did not disappoint. This book had it all: a spark filled relationship, cute kid, a woman in an untraditional for a woman career where she kicks butt and even some intrigue.
I definitely give this book 4.5 stars!
Profile Image for gabreadsbooks.
884 reviews46 followers
July 13, 2022
I've been on a journey to discover new-to-me authors this year so I gave Call It Reckless a try.
It turned out to be a delightful single dad romance with some drama and mystery thrown in.
These two characters butted heads more than two goats! But that's mostly because one of them is fighting the very obvious attraction (hint its the MMC). However, once they get past their squabbling, the romance blossoms at a decent pace and I didn't have to wait forever to get some steam.
I really liked how the FMC was the adrenaline chaser and the MMC was the boy scout. It was a nice twist on the typical roles we see in books. I also didn't mind the child in this book. She was a little spitfire.
I have really grown to adore small town romances. There just really welcoming and deliver fun, quirky characters. Montgomery has created one such town in Sterling Mill and I can't wait to return to it. I'll have to go back and read book one. Don't worry though, this can be read as a standalone.

* Thank you to Grey's Promotions & the author for providing an advanced reader's copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,048 reviews213 followers
July 11, 2022
5 Star review of Call It Reckless (Sterling Mill #2) by M.E. Montgomery

M.E. Montgomery is a new author to me and I am surprised I have not come across this author before. I love stories that have single parents, particularly set in small towns so this was a win/win for me.
The writing was descriptive and I could easily picture Sterling Mill, TN. This is Bristol Allen and Reid Braxtons’s story and it was well written and entertaining. I really liked these characters, they were easy to relate to and I found myself quickly drawn into the story that Ms.Montgomery wove; add in Reid’s adorable little girl Lexi and I was all in.
Bristol has returned home after her career ends and opens up Head to Tow Garage and Salon (I just love the name). Reid is a deputy, a single dad and a man that carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. He is protective, alpha and caring and is the total opposite of Bristol; however somehow these two are meant to be.
Neither are looking for a relationship but the attraction that sizzles between them is intense and impossible to ignore. Their journey was full of miss communication but it was heart warming, particularly the relationships they they both have with Lexi.
Could this be the start of something wonderful or are they destined to crash and burn? One click and find out.
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
3,157 reviews61 followers
July 12, 2022
Call it Reckless is one of those stories that you would settle down on a Saturday afternoon, switch on the Hallmark channel and get lost for a couple of hours in just pure magic, having said that, it would be one of those films where the female lead is no heroine waiting to be rescued, she would be like Bristol with her fair share of tragedy and is now home with her siblings and with her best friend about to start a brand new adventure, she doesn't need the hot Sheriff Reid making her feel guilty because she takes a few risks.
"You may be responsible for getting knocked down, but you're responsible for getting back."

M.E. Montgomery produced a wonderful slow-burn romance. I was really impressed how she made me see both sides of this couple's point of view, Reid, who is trying to raise his nearly 10-year-old to do girly things and not be a tomboy and run the risk of getting hurt and mechanical Bristol, who is trying to get Reid to understand you can be both, there was no denying this couple's connection, and I particularly loved the banter they had, especially over the speeding ticket, Call It Reckless is recklessly perfect.
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
6,314 reviews145 followers
July 11, 2022
If you love single parents and small town romances look no further than Call it Reckless ( Sterling Mill #2). M.E. Montgomery is a fairly new author to me but single parents are my jam and I love small town romances and for me this book is up there another best in both those troupes.
This is Bristol Allen and single dad Reid Braxton’s story and I was drawn in from the first page and I couldn’t put this book down u til I had read the final word. Bristol is back home starting a new business and this is where she comes across local deputy Reid and his adorable little girl Lexi. What follows is a entertaining at times emotional journey, a heartwarming story with witty banter makes this a book that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. Call it Reckless ticked all my boxes, I adored Bristol, I fell hard and fast for Reid but it was the adorable Lexi that stole my heart. Looking forward to meeting more residents from Sterling Mill and checking out previous works by this very talented author.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
19.8k reviews249 followers
July 11, 2022
This is the second book in this awesome series, and this is Reid and Bristol’s’ story. After Bristol suffers a career ending accident, she returns to her small hometown for a fresh start, and to open her own auto repair shop and salon. Reid is a widower, and single dad to his adorable little daughter Lexi, and is the town’s deputy. Reid always catches Bristol at the wrong moment, but he cannot deny the attraction between them. When Lexi comes home from school with an assignment to interview the owner of the newest business, she is enamoured with Bristol. This is a well written story which has undeniable chemistry, family, friendships, loyalty, mystery, suspense, angst, danger, intrigue, humor, witty banter, misunderstandings, emotions, and love, which leads to an entertaining and compelling page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Greys Promotions and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Romancewitham .
437 reviews20 followers
July 14, 2022
Call it Reckless

Thank you Greys Promo for the ARC

[CONTAINS SPOILERS]

This was the first book I read from the incredible M.E Montgomery and I can say she had me hooked with her writing. This book is beautifully written with really relatable and enjoyable characters. I adored Bristol so much, she was so strong and independent and working on a male dominated field doing what she loved without caring for others opinions. Her move to her grandparents small town was the perfect thing for her and it gave her the needed new life she needed. Reid is the man. A single father, a deputy and a grump. Yeah these three are elite and Reid is definitely one of the best men I've read about. He's an incredible father that would do anything for his daughter. Lexi is the sweetest little girl and I loved the relationship she had with Bristol. Their banter was as amazing as their chemistry and I loved their happily ever after

Book by: @author_me_montgomery
Tropes:
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Single parent
• Small town romance

My rating: 5/5⭐
Spice level: 3,5/5 🔥
Profile Image for Theresa Natole.
1,205 reviews21 followers
July 6, 2022
Bristol is so different than Abby was. But Bristol made Reid laugh. Their banter when they first met was a joy to see. Bristol was blunt. She didn’t sugarcoat anything. Whereas Abby was very straight laced and proper. Bristol did not think Reid would be attracted to her because she was so different than Abby. But Reid could not help be to fall for her. The fact that Lexi adored Bristol was also a bonus. I loved when Reid and Bristol first met. The speeding ticket was hilarious. The relationship that grew between her and Lexi was so special. Bristol wasn’t a frilly, dress up kind of woman. She showed Lexi and Reid that not all girls have to be that way and it’s okay. It is more than okay for a girl to get her hands dirty and like to work on cars just like guys. The most important thing is to always be yourself.
I could not put this book down. M E Montgomery’s books are amazing stories. Once you start you cannot put them down.
1,031 reviews
July 8, 2022
Reid and Bristol made a great couple. I loved that Reid came to understand that it was okay to take some chances and be a little reckless and Bristol learned that looking before she leaped and taking fewer chances wasn’t a bad thing.
Reid’s daughter Lexi added to the story and helped pull the two together. They certainly needed help as every other interaction they had at the beginning seemed to cause a misunderstanding on either Reid or Bristol’s part. Once they got a few misunderstandings they realized they didn’t to talk before misreading things. Once they did that, they still had their insecurities, but they didn’t let them derail their relationship.
The secondary characters all added to my enjoyment of the story, they were quirky, nosy and up in other people’s business, but they made the story fun. I can’t wait for the next book in the Sterling Mill series.
I received a free copy of this book via BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,992 reviews14 followers
July 10, 2022
I had no real expectations with this book as it is my first by this author. It was the whole small town storyline that drew me in initially, then add in the single dad part as well and I was halfway to loving it even before finishing the first chapter.
Reid and Bristol’s story was definitely a roller coaster of a read. The push and pull between them at the start was outstanding and for a little bit there I thought their potential relationship might verge onto enemies status. It didn’t quite go that far though but regardless I really enjoyed this part of the book.
Another surprise for me was the suspense and intrigue added. My mind was flying this way and that trying to work out the people who could potentially be involved, and let me say except for one person I wasn’t even close!!
A truly wonderful book that I can’t recommend enough. Will definitely read more from this author in the future. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,853 reviews99 followers
July 12, 2022
"I had no real expectations with this book as it is my first by this author. It was the whole small town storyline that drew me in initially, then add in the single dad part as well and I was halfway to loving it even before finishing the first chapter.
Reid and Bristol’s story was definitely a roller coaster of a read. The push and pull between them at the start was outstanding and for a little bit there I thought their potential relationship might verge onto enemies status. It didn’t quite go that far though but regardless I really enjoyed this part of the book.
Another surprise for me was the suspense and intrigue added. My mind was flying this way and that trying to work out the people who could potentially be involved, and let me say except for one person I wasn’t even close!!
A truly wonderful book that I can’t recommend enough. Will definitely read more from this author in the future. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book."
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