Everyone has a past they’re trying to outrun, myself included. My time in the military left me with scars, both physically and emotionally, which is why I keep to myself. Since returning home to Stewart Grove, I work a lot so I have little time to think. To remember. I’m just content to make it through the day.
Then I meet Kallie Carpenter.
I am drawn to the sexy bartender in a way I’ve never experienced, and despite knowing I should stay away, I can’t. Kallie calls to the very depths of my soul, every broken piece of it.
I hope I don’t destroy us both.
Kallie
Taking care of my injured dad and his horse ranch, as well as working at the local bar doesn’t leave me much time for a social life. Between home and Burgers and Brew, I keep myself plenty busy, despite my dad’s insistence I give dating another try. It’s not that I wouldn’t mind it, I just barely have any time to myself, let alone making room for another.
Then I find Leo Martinez sitting at the end of the bar.
He’s guarded and a little rough around the edges, but I can’t stay away. There’s a darkness in his eyes that speaks of pain, yet I only see the amazing man he tries to hide from the world.
Avid reader, writer, mother, and wife! I love to read contemporary romance. Add in a little "spice" or hot guys in uniform pants, and I'm a happy woman. There's just something about diving into a book and engrossing in the magic of your hero and heroine getting their happily ever after.
To start with, it's no secret that Lacey Black is one of my go-to, TOP FAVE authors, small-town or otherwise but, this series (Burger and Brew Crüe) and THIS book in particular, she has proven just how talented she really is! Kallie and Leo absolutely stole my heart and soul (AND my breath several times) while being immersed in their, at times, somewhat angsty story of found friendship, family and love.
Home Sweet Home has a little bit of a dark theme to it, with Leo being the ex-military hero (though HE doesn't see himself that way) and he's dealing with PTSD and survivor's guilt. He's also NOT looking for love, feeling not only that he doesn't deserve it but that he won't inflict his "issues" on anyone else. He has good friends, a job as a mechanic and the very occasional hook-up....until he "meets" the "new bartender at Burgers and Brew, Kallie! The beauty behind the bar that he's seen when he'd come in but, when he spends some real time with her and starts to get to know her? The chemistry is OFF THE CHARTS!!!
Kallie is also not looking for love, having been burned badly. She's just trying to keep everything together, working the bar at Burgers and Brew, taking care of her father since his accident and looking after the horses on their small ranch. That's all she can handle or has time for...until fate steps in with another plan for her. That plan has her colliding with the sexy-as-all-get-out but extremely guarded Leo. The result is EXPLOSIVE, to say the least!
I LOVED everything about this extremely emotional, beautifully written and sometimes hilarious story of two people who are PERFECTLY imperfect together and were MEANT to be! Add in an absolutely ADORABLE puppy and you have an amazing, unputdownable MUST READ that will stay with you for a long time to come! This is one that I will definitely re-read and it's my FAVE book in this series to date!
This small-town romance was emotional and beautiful. The story flowed smoothly and I couldn't put it down.
Kallie and Leo are two people who don’t want to find love. Leo has a past that has left him with scars. He doesn't believe that he’s worth love and he will only leave behind hurt. Kallie has returned home to help her injured dad. When she’s not bartending she’s helping her dad and running his horse ranch. She doesn’t have time for romance. The moment these two meet they can’t stay away from each other.
I loved the way Kallie and Leo’s relationship progressed. Despite their chemistry, they try to resist each other but can't. They spend time together and develop a relationship based on friendship and a deep connection despite the instant connection they feel.
Leo is guarded and can sometimes be a little grumpy in an attempt to not get close to others. There was a beauty and natural transition as he found love. He’s protective and cares deeply. I loved his loyalty and devotion. The way Kallie and a stray dog break down his walls gave me all the feels.
Leo and Kallie’s story tugs on the heartstrings. There is witty dialogue, banter, fantastic side characters, and moments that will warm your heart.
This can be read as a standalone but the characters from the previous books play a huge role in the story and create such a fantastic found family at the bar Kallie works at. I highly recommend reading all of the books in the Burgers and Brew Crue Series.
Kallie’s been back for eight years. Her father had been working with some horses in the pasture and Bud being particularly ornery, at some point, unseated him. It was a day his helper, Russell, was off, so there was no one there to assist. He knew his back was hurt badly because he was unable to move his legs. A neighbour drove past and noticed the horse running around and happened to look over at the right moment and see his hand up in the air from the middle of the pasture. He’d lain there all day, yelling for help.
At the time Kallie was living in Cincinnati, wrapping up her day, when she got the call. Packing a bag with whatever she could throw inside. The first few years were difficult as he experienced temporary paralysis from the waist down due to a spinal cord injury. It took physical therapy to rehabilitate him to walking. Unfortunately, he’d never ride a horse again. She moved back and has been taking care of him, the ranch and bartending five nights a week, ever since.
Leo is very guarded. Three years ago he lost his three friends, Jon, Sully and Gomez, during a routine security check in Afghanistan. On their way back to the base when they hit a roadside bomb which decimated their Humvee. They hadn’t been back in Afghanistan but a month. After spending two weeks stateside, they returned to work, in hopes of finishing their assignment. Three months. That’s all they had left in their deployment. Except, when he returned home, it was after being discharged from a German military hospital in time to attend three military funerals for three close friends.
Neither one is looking for romance, but it finds them. As they grow closer, she witnesses one of his nightmares, so he distances himself.
He didn’t want her to see that weakness, it terrified him. They’ve spoken and he’s stopped by twice for dinner and she’s trying to give him space, time to come to terms with his feelings on the situation. His nightmares don’t define him as a person, and even though she knows that, she doesn’t think he does.
He’s terrified of his feelings for her. Terrified he’s going to drag her down with him, he feels broken.
Then he has a visitor from his past, Olivia was married to one of his teammates, Jon. He was closest to him out of anyone else in the military. They met in basic training and went through the ranks together. Olivia brought her son, Jonathon Leo with her. He’d never met him before; she found out she was pregnant not long before they buried Jon.
Her sudden appearance sent him into a tailspin. She showed up the day before the three-year anniversary of his death, but he had stayed away from her because of survivor’s guilt.
Then the town tramp starts speculating and spreading innuendoes. Then, he discovers his mother’s cancer has returned after beating the odds the first time…this time it’s spread. She’s already fought it once, knowing how grueling it was, not wanting to go through it all again, knowing the end result won’t change the outcome.
His life is in turmoil, reeling from his mother’s cancer update, still embarrassed about having a nightmare at Kallie’s house, mad at the world, he pushes her away, ending it.
Then there’s a tornado watch, during which Kallie is hurt. Soon after he proposes and Kallie moves up the wedding in order for his mother to be present.
Letter from Valerie (his mother) to Kallie…heartbreaking.
“My dearest Kallie: From the moment I officially met you earlier this year, I knew instantly what my son saw in you. You are kind, gentle, and loving, but know when to stand your ground, especially where Leo is concerned. You bring out a side to him I’ve never seen, and for that, I’m eternally grateful.
Even though I’m writing this before you’re actually married, I know you’re going to be the most beautiful bride ever, and I can’t wait to watch the look on Leo’s face when he sees you for the first time. I don’t want to miss that moment because it’s all any mother wants for their child. Pure joy and love and it’s because of you. That’s what I see when I look at him now, and I’m certain that’s what I’ll see the moment he catches sight of you for the first time in your wedding dress.
Our time together will be short, but please know this: I will always love you. Like a mother loves a daughter. I will always smile down on you, watching over you and Leo and the life you’re beginning together. While I’m saddened I won’t be a part of it the way my husband and your father will be, please know I’ll always be there, proudly cheering you on, but I won’t be alone. I look forward to meeting your mother in the afterlife. I’m certain she’s as lovely as you, and together, we will keep watch over our two precious children.
I don’t have much time. My body is giving out quickly, even though my heart is still strong. If it were possible to live by that alone, I’d live forever. When the time comes, Leo is going to need you, as you will him. Lean on each other and your love will help you get through the hard times.
Thank you for loving my boy. If I had my choice of anyone in this world for him, I’d pick you, Kallie. Just like he did.
Be happy, my beautiful, sweet daughter-in-law. You are loved beyond measure. By those with you on this earth and those looking down from above.
All my love until we meet again, Valerie”.
This book involves terminal cancer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This one hit hard especially with the way it ended. If there were ever 2 people who didn't want to find love it was Kallie and Leo. But love has a way of hitting you in the face when you least expect it and when their time comes it is impossible to fight it. They both have past issues that need to be resolved. And just when you think that together they can stand against it, Leo gets a few news that shake his core and he ends up almost losing Kallie. But life knows these two needs were perfect for each other and it gives them another chance to make it right.
Just like the rest of the books in this series this one too hit the right spot in my hidden romantic heart. I loved how right they were for each other and the knowledge they'll be there when sad times come, will help me sleep at night.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
There were some cute moments in this one, but there were more serious ones. I liked that Leo and Kallie found their way to each other and didn't fight it, both of them needed someone in their corner. It was fun to see how things proceeded for them. I knew Leo's past would come into pay and things would blow up for a bit, but holy cow, I didn't expect how in the span of 24 hours all the bad things could happen to really trigger him. I was glad that when he explained things to Kallie she got it and understood that the blow up wasn't her, it would have been anyone that happened to catch him at the moment in time. The ending to this one was a bit harrowing at times, but then ended up very sweet! Loved that these 2 found their HEA.
I am so glad the author extended this series; there are more great stories out there; Leo and Kallie are just the latest. The story will grab you quickly and pull at your heart. Leo and Kallie need to find the right one to know relationships can work. This is their journey.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
What an emotional story Home Sweet Home was. This book tugged at my heartstrings and did not let go.
Leo is ex military and is carrying lots of demons from his past. These have an impact on what he thinks his life is going to look like in the future then he gets to know Kallie.
Kallie works at Burgers and Brue she also takes care of her dad after he suffered an accident. The last thing she is looking for is a relationship. When her truck breaks down Leo comes to her rescue and soon they are spending time together and feelings start to emerge, but will they both give into them.
A beautifully heartbreaking story that I can highly recommend.
The Burgers and Brew Crüe are back. While all the owners have found love and settled down there are still regular crüe members who haven't.
This is bartender Kallie's story and she falls for Gareth's best friend Leo. Leo is a damaged hero with his time in the military affecting his life in the present. Kallie hasn't always had it smooth and easy either but she's a happy person, in general, and is content with her life.
This is a grumpy/sunshine, but Leo is mostly happy whenever he's with Kallie so we don't see a lot of his grumpiness but it's implied. There's an instant attraction but they start off slowly becoming friends before they can't deny what they really want.
I did get hit by the emotions in this one, particularly toward the end. Tears did get the better of me. It was just beautifully done and I think Lacey nailed the story.
Looking forward to book 7 with Cameron and Kellan. . . . Gareth and Reagan's wedding may have been cut short with the early arrival of their baby but everyone is still hanging around the bar waiting for news. Kallie agreed to work the wedding so the Crüe could enjoy it. She's particularly enjoying the view of Gareth's best man and best friend Leo perched at the end of the bar. He's incredibly sexy and she's attracted to him, but he's quiet and seems to keep to himself a lot.
Leo can't deny his attraction to Kallie, but since returning home fighting his demons has been more of a priority than dating. He's too damaged to make a connection with someone despite how much he wants to get to know her. 'I've known her for less than forty-eight hours, and I'm already hooked. What kind of voodoo magic does he possess?'
When Kallie's truck breaks down and Leo happens upon her in the tow truck the two get a chance to really talk. Once Leo has spent some time with her he craves more and more of it. Spending time at the bar while she works, picking her up while her truck gets fixed, and any reason he can think of. His protective instincts with her are high and he can't deny the pull.
Kallie and Leo both want more and despite neither of them looking, they find peace with each other and happiness that they weren't sure they'd ever get. The Crüe is a great support for both Leo and Kallie helping them find their way through the mixed emotions. But Leo's demons surface causing him to pull away from Kallie and when further news puts more pressure on Leo he can't handle it all. Leo might lose it all if he can't figure out his own head. 'I'm determined to be there for him. To help him slay his dragons. To show him just how amazing he really is. To continue to love him, even when he may not love himself.'
Back in Stewart Gove and working as a mechanic after he is medically discharged from the military, Leo is busy trying to live with his past and outrun his survivor’s guilt.
Working as a bartender at Burgers and Brew, Callie spends her free time taking care of her injured father and looking after their small horse farm. She barely has time to herself let alone time to date.
Neither is looking for a relationship, but yet they both seem to click. Both have emotional scars and baggage, yet being together seems to lighten their loads. But Callie has been hurt before. And, Leo is terrified of letting anyone into his heart again after losing those he loved on his watch.
If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would! It’s definitely my favorite of the series, and that’s really saying something because every book and every couple has been phenomenal!
I adored seeing glimpses of all of my favorite Burgers and Brew characters. I loved that it was done organically in scenes that just show how close this group of friends really is.
I had all the feels for Leo and Callie! Leo’s history is all kinds of tragic and I was so happy he found something to live for in Callie. And, Callie is such a lovely and selfless person. It was nice to see someone worried about her happiness.
They had ups and downs and there are some incredibly emotional moments in this book. (I mean grab your tissues moments.) But, there is a lot of witty dialogue and banter with this couple and between their friends to help balance everything out.
Axl also melted my heart!
Home Sweet Home was the perfect song to title this book after because it not only felt like a homecoming, but really epitomized the saying home is where the heart is. 5 stars for this emotional small town romance.
If you love your romance novels with a good dose of swoon - then get ready for Lacey Black to hit you so hard that you end up with heart eyes on this one! All of the Burgers and Brew Crüe are some of my favorite characters, but the coupling of Kallie and Leo is absolute perfection! Their scars, backgrounds, and path to happiness is now ranking as one of my all-time favorites!
Kallie has such a big heart that loves with every inch. She makes you smile (even as the reader!) and feel like she could be your best friend. She wears a smile for the world, but underneath, she feels entirely too vulnerable and ends up closing herself off to love. But then Leo sits at the bar and her world tilts in a new direction. It helps break up the monotonous life she's destined herself for -- and what a beautiful new life it is! Her medical issues hit close to home
Leo is struggling with a heavy load. Not only does he suffer from PTSD, but he faces another loss that could completely shut him down. But his dark life begins to brighten when he meets Kallie and begins spending time with her. He's incredibly kind, caring, and most of all, deserving, of a woman like her.
I loved getting insight to how the other members of the Burgers and Brew Crüe are growing their families. All of those unique, fun personalities are still very vibrant and make this series a permanent shelf-keeper for me! I cried several times throughout and then happy tears even more so!
I received a complimentary ARC for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
This emotional and beautiful small-town romance, "Home Sweet Home," tells the story of Kallie and Leo, two individuals who never intended to find love. Leo, scarred by his past, doubts his worthiness of love and fears causing further hurt. Meanwhile, Kallie returns home to assist her injured father, dividing her time between bartending and running her father's horse ranch. Romance is the last thing on her mind. However, from the moment they meet, Kallie and Leo find it impossible to stay away from each other.
Their relationship progresses in a captivating manner, despite their attempts to resist their undeniable chemistry. Friendship and a profound connection form the foundation of their bond, gradually growing stronger alongside their instant connection. Leo, guarded and occasionally grumpy, builds walls to avoid getting close to others. Yet, there is a natural and beautiful transition as he discovers love. His protective nature, deep care, loyalty, and devotion are truly endearing, and the way Kallie and a stray dog break down his barriers evokes powerful emotions.
Leo and Kallie's heartstring-tugging story is filled with witty dialogue, banter, fantastic side characters, and heartwarming moments. While "Home Sweet Home" can be enjoyed as a standalone, the previous books in the Burgers and Brew Crue series play a significant role, creating a wonderful found family at the bar where Kallie works. I highly recommend immersing yourself in the entire series for a truly satisfying reading experience.
Home Sweet Home is the sixth book in the Burgers & Brew Crue series. I read it as a standalone and had no trouble following along. It was well-written, and the storyline had many layers of depth. I was pulled into the story after the first page and did not want to put it down until I finished. Leo’s military career was over after his unit was attacked and he lost his friends. He returned to his hometown, Stewart Grove, still haunted by his memories. He felt a connection with Kallie but didn’t want to bring her down with his baggage. Kallie had moved to Stewart Grove after her father was injured. Her job as a bartender and taking care of her father and their horses kept her busy. She didn’t have time for a relationship, but the allure of Leo was too strong for her to stay away. This was a beautiful and emotional story that will touch your heart. Leo had been through so much and feared letting someone close. He could identify and had a calming effect on Bud, one of the horses. I loved seeing their connection and trust grow. Kallie was sweet and so strong to step in and put her life on hold so she could take care of her father. This was an amazing book that will have your emotions wavering. I enjoyed reading it and am glad I had the chance to discover this author.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved this slow burn from start to finish! Home Sweet Home is the latest in Lacey Black's Burgers and Brew Crue series and it's fantastic. All stories can be enjoyed as standalones.
Leo and Kallie are both starting over of sorts. They're both part of the large Brew Crue friend group and have circled around each other for a bit. Each are inexorably drawn to each other and have struggled to resist the allure of one another but all that's about to change. The puppy Axl seems to change it all and man was I here for it! Leo and Kallie were both great characters but the puppy (and horse) stole the show somewhat for me. Animals know when their humans need them and Leo needed Axl in a big way! Leo finds himself battling demons from almost two decades of military service. Believing his baggage is too much to share with anyone, he has cut himself off to most relationships, until a puppy opened him up. Kallie is the human equivalent to all things comfort. She, like Axl, completely accepts Leo for all he is, both good and bad and shows him no one is beyond love.
This story carved my heart slowly. Watching Leo battle PTS and struggle with survivor guilt was hugely emotional for me, as I uniquely understand these complicated emotions. The (therapy)dog, the stubborn horse and Kallie's flat out goodness brought Leo back to life and helped him find HOME. It's beautifully written and will break your heart in the best way.
Having read the five previous installments i've been looking so forward to more! As soon as this sixth installment was announced i wanted to read it. I picked it up and got right back into the Burgers and Brew Crüe world! I so enjoyed this story!
Kallie and Leo's journey captured my attention right from the get go! Sometimes you can lock eyes with a person and it changes things, something Kallie and Leo soon find out when they see each other at Burgers and Brew. Can Kallie and Leo learn to take a chance together?
I got right into Kallie and Leo's story which i thoroughly enjoyed! I really liked the way these two and their paths crossed. I found both of them to have such humanness to them that got right to this heart of mine. The chemistry and connection between Kallie and Leo was so great! I didn't quite know how they'd deal with things in their lives and their feelings which got me into it even more so.
It was so fun being back in this world and getting more of the Crüe!
With Home Sweet Home, Ms.Black has created such a good read with feels! Definitely check this series out, if you haven't already. I can't wait to dive back into it with the seventh installment, Too Young To Fall In Love!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Give Me Books Promotions / the author*
Leo and Kallie find each other at the Burgers and Brew bar.
At Garreth and Reagan’s wedding at the Burgers and Brew restaurant there is Kallie working the bar at the reception and she actually meets Leo, Garreth’s best friend. These two make eyes at each other before their first kiss.
Leo is an eighteen year army man, discharged after a road side bomb kills his three friends. Working as a mechanic he has PTSD and night terrors. Kallie is a bartender at Burgers and Brew. She is living at home after her father had an accident with one of their horses. He has some permanent disabilities.
On the way to Kallies, Leo finds a lost puppy. Axl is written in almost every page. Leo is able to change Bud, the horse Kallie’s father was riding. There is a small amount of Leo being stupid when Kallie witnessed one of his nightmares. Thankfully Garreth and a tornado help knock some sense into Leo.
Warning, you most likely will cry. I have five tissues to make that point. Axl is the sweetest dog. Bud is a horse with an attitude and a heart of gold. Kallie’s dad is a straight shooter. Especially the morning after Leo stayed over. Leo’s mom has cancer. His love for his mom blooms on each page they are together.
I give this book number six in the Burgers and Brew Crue series a solid four and a half stars.
Oh my did I shed some tears with this story. An emotional journey that tugged at my heart strings and had me addicted from the very beginning. Leo is a former military man who now works in an auto body shop and tries to keep to himself. Kallie works as a bartender in Burgers and Brew. She moved in with her father after his accident to help take care of him and his horse ranch. Both characters had difficult and painful pasts that they needed to overcome. And poor Leo! The hits just kept coming. Heartbreaking and heartwarming all in one with just the right amount of flirty banter, steamy times, and a little action to balance it out. I absolutely fell in love with these two characters. Lacey Black delivered a beautiful and an unforgettable story. As always, I loved catching up with the rest of the Cruë characters and their every expanding families. I highly recommend this story, as well as the rest of the series. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next couple. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review. Even though I received this for free, I have purchased the ebook copy of this book and the rest of the series for my Kindle.
I might slightly be obsessed with this story. Okay, slightly is an understatement. Lacey Black just blew the roof off with Leo and Kallies one of a kind story.
‘Home Sweet Home’ did not develop in the manner I thought it would, and it for sure is NOT your average Romance. It was different, but an amazing different.
Let me be the first to say that, the development was perfectly plotted out and that made for the most perfect execution of EVERY single moment of this story. Leo and Kallies’ ‘Home Sweet Home’ tugged on my heart for many different reasons because Black carved the depth out of this one, and I mean the depth. I felt it every which way I turned. If I’m being honest, this book felt authentic in every sense of the word. Everything from the characters and their actions, to the plots and subplots just flowed so naturally that I could visualize everything down to the hill that you could only see from the loft in the barn.
Leo and Kallie are up there for me. They are going to be the couple to beat because I see no one else but them. I personally think this is Blacks best book to date as well. So it goes without saying my recommendation is a given.
Have to say it again the Burgers and Brew Crüe is a series by Lacey Black you don't want to pass up. We have a series that is like a family of brothers and sisters coming together and the friendships they have. Leo was raised in Stuart Grove but served his country at a young age coming home a man no one recognizes but filled with tragedy and scarred. Kallie is new to him and seeing him fall for her seemed scary all the way. Lacey Black shows us how deep Leo's scars are and teared me apart seeing a strong man like him scared yet wanting to live again away from the bad dreams. These two together are afraid to love but when they do love it is something remarkeable, beautiful and magical in their own ways. Not only does Kallie come into Leo's life like a whirlwind but we have the cutest puppy that will steal your heart. Seeing Leo with the puppy will just melt your heart like it did with Kallie. Loved it and there is still one more Burgers and Brew Crüe story to come. Awesome job Lacey Black.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
This is the sixth book in this series by this author and what an amazing addition it is. From start to finish you are sucked into the pages of the story. This story follows the characters, Leo and Callie, They have an instant chemistry between them from the start but they need to get over their pasts to hopefully move forward in their future together. This story is full of emotions, heat, and love. You will definitely need the tissues at the ready for the emotional roller coaster of a ride you go on. This is an incredible addition to this already incredible series of books from this author.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest review
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, pain, and heartbreak.
The below are part of this series if you want to read those books(s) first Kickstart My Heart (Burgers and Brew Crue #1) Don't Go Away Mad (Burgers and Brew Crüe #2) Same Ol' Situation (Burgers and Brew Crüe #3) Wild Side (Burgers & Brew Crüe #4) What's It Gonna Take (Burgers & Brew Crüe #5)
This is Kallie and Leo’s story. Kallie is a bartender at Burgers and Brew. Leo is friends with Garreth so he’s in the bar a lot to see him. These two know each other but are not together. The attraction is there but they both have a lot going on and no time for a relationship. The more they talk and spend time together they wonder if they should try to be together. But as soon as they give into there feelings things happen and he is pushing her away. Will he lose her before he gets the future he realizes he truly wants.
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I love Lacey Black’s writing, I’ve been reading her small-town romances since she released her first one. I’ve really enjoyed every book in The Burgers and Brew Crüe series so far, but Home Sweet Home has been my favorite. This was an emotional, heart-string puller about Kallie, a hard-working bartender who’s also caring for her disabled father and his horse ranch, and Leo, former military with the scars, PTSD and emotional baggage to prove it.
Black delivered an immensely layered romance full of feels and depth and richly developed characters. I was pulled in every direction reading Leo and Kallie love story, and I was all-in and rooting for this couple after reading just the blurb. Leo and Kallie had wonderful chemistry, a deep connection and fantastic banter. Home Sweet Home was full of twists and turns, ups and downs, heat and heart and a bit of humor. I absolutely loved it. Five smooches from me for Home Sweet Home by Lacey Black! ~Danielle Palumbo
I loved Kallie and Leo’s sweet, spicy, and healing romance. It is filled with all the emotions, the connections and the love, giving you all the swoony swoons while also pulling at your heartstrings with all the emotions. Kallie works as a bartender in the evenings and helps run her family’s horse farm during the day. Leo is an auto mechanic who suffers from PTSD from his time in the military. Neither one is looking for a relationship but chemistry and feelings make them both willing to try. Of course, things get complicated and messy on their way to their HEA because - big feelings are hard and they both have some issues to deal with. This book has a little bit of everything - sweet moments, steamy scenes, real life issues, imperfect characters, close knit friends and family, humor, painful pasts, and so much love. This was a wonderful addition to this great series. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
Motley Crue is one of my favorite bands. I remember I didn't even read the blurb. I just read the title of the first book in the “Burgers and Brew Crue” series, “Kickstart My Heart” and it was love (and music) at first sight. And then came book 2 and then 3 and well, you get the picture. I just finished reading “Home Sweet Home”, Leo’s and Kallie’s story. Once again I was left with this warm feeling I get inside (and a craving for burgers) every time I finish one of the books in this series. Leo has a past he’s trying to outrun, his military life gone. Kallie is back in town to take care of her dad. Leo meets Kallie and everything starts to look a bit brighter. Their story is emotional, hot, funny. He makes her laugh; she makes him feel finally at home. There’s a puppy, a horse, lots of burgers and parents who just want to see their kids happy. What I love most about this series is that it feels… real. All the characters could easily be your next door neighbors. This book can be read as a standalone but I personally prefer to start from the begging when it comes to series.
I know the term “all the feels” can be over used, but in this Lacey Black story that term describes it best. I love this series, yes it’s fictional but that doesn’t take away from the realness of the characters. Lacey writes real stories about real people with real issues.
Leo suffers from survivor’s guilt and PTSD, and because of that he feels damaged in a way that can’t be repaired. Until he meets Kallie, and then things start to be easier, he starts to see things clearer, and what he sees is that his life is better with Kallie in it.
This is part of the Brews and Crüe series and even though they are all stand alones you are going to have a much better experience if you read them all.
Read this story, get lost in Leo and Kallie’s connection, fall in love with these two as well as a sweet pup and a cantankerous horse. This is what reading romance is all about, go for the spice, but get hooked by everything else it has to offer.
Leo has some pretty big demons after his time in the military, and he has scars both physical & mental which has skewed his perception of himself. He returns home, and is just trying to get through each day, so he never saw Kallie coming. She's a bartender while taking care of her father & his ranch so there's little to no time to actually get anything started, not to mention, she has her own set of demons, and she never saw Leo coming. She comes face to face with him at the bar she works at, and there's just something about him that calls to her so she can't stay away. They start to get to know each other which gets the sparks flying, but this isn't an easy journey despite the fact they are perfect for each other that's for sure. This story had all the feels, a ton of heat, and humor with the best supporting cast rounding it out perfectly so I LOVED it so much (not surprising since it is Lacey Black and all)! I'll never get enough of this series, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
While this is book 6 in the series, a reader doesn’t really need to know the other books to enjoy this one. It is a small town setting where they are all interconnected through the bar. Leo Is our MMC who is an ex army veteran who struggles deeply with PTSD and having some family struggles. Kallie is our FMC who has moved back to the small town after her fathers accident to help run the farm. It is a meet cute from him seeing her across the bar and sparks flew. There is so much heart break in this novel regarding PTSD, child loss, loss of a parent, and so much more. This love is constant, but an uphill battle full of animals and burgers. Leo is so sweet and is gunning for Kallie and this relationship the whole time and Kallie never once leaves Leo when things get hard. This book is a great addition to the previous five books if you’ve already fell in love with this world.
The Burgers & Brew Crue is one I would like to be part of. Each guy in this series has been perfect in their own way and Leo was no different.
We met Leo and Kallie in the previous book as Leo is Gareth’s best friend and Kallie is a bartender at Burgers & Brew. They truly meet at Gareth and Reagan’s wedding and immediately hit it off, despite neither of them looking for a relationship. They both have some serious baggage (who doesn’t!) and it seems they are a perfect pair to work through it all together. Their parents were also so supportive and involved in their lives, that was simply adorable.
I absolutely loved Axl, he was the perfect pup for Leo! It was great to see bits and pieces of all of the past couples as well. It is always fun to hang at that bar. I look forward to Kellen and Cameron’s story next! Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🔥 Scene: first time
Love this book. Love Leo and Kallie’s romance story. This book starts with how Kallie and Leo first met. They first meet at Garreth and Reagan’s wedding. Since they met, they have eyes on each other. One day Leo sees that Kallie’s vehicle broke down. He offered to take her to work. That was the day Leo met Kallie’s father. He goes back to get the broken down vehicle. There Leo feels an animal’ fur on him, he realizes it’s a dog. He tries to find the dog’s owner but no one wants the dog. The next day he takes the dog to the vet and he ends up owning the dog. He doesn’t realizes how much the dog would help him. Leo was in the army about 3 years ago. He lost all 3 of his teammates due to a roadside bomb. The dog has helped with Leo’s nightmares. Love how these two end up together. Worth the read