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Summersweet Island #6
Spare Me
Ryan Hutton has spent his entire life being the shy, nerdy, rule-following nice guy on Summersweet Island. He’s the high school bowling coach and algebra teacher, who’s always predictable, and he’s always been fine with that. At least until a sexy nutjob gives him the best kiss of his life in his favorite pizza place. Suddenly, he doesn’t like being the quiet, obedient nice guy anymore.
When Danica Brewster first set foot on this beautiful island a few days ago, she just wanted a place to call home—far, far away from her family. A place where she could be wild and free without their judgment. When she finds out her new roommate is the stranger she kissed for free pizza, Danica knows this is a complication she definitely doesn’t need in her life right now.
However, the memory of that kiss is making them 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 act out of character. Ryan and Danica soon realize you can’t ignore your problems and hope they’ll go away. Those problems will just come back with a vengeance, tossing everything into the gutter.
It doesn’t make sense for a nerd to fall in love with a nutjob, but with the magic of Summersweet Island, anything is possible... especially if you have enough balls.
When Danica Brewster first set foot on this beautiful island a few days ago, she just wanted a place to call home—far, far away from her family. A place where she could be wild and free without their judgment. When she finds out her new roommate is the stranger she kissed for free pizza, Danica knows this is a complication she definitely doesn’t need in her life right now.
However, the memory of that kiss is making them 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 act out of character. Ryan and Danica soon realize you can’t ignore your problems and hope they’ll go away. Those problems will just come back with a vengeance, tossing everything into the gutter.
It doesn’t make sense for a nerd to fall in love with a nutjob, but with the magic of Summersweet Island, anything is possible... especially if you have enough balls.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2022
129 people are currently reading
754 people want to read
About the author
Tara Sivec
78 books10.3k followersTara Sivec is a USA Today best-selling author, wife, mother, chauffeur, maid, short-order cook, baby-sitter, and sarcasm expert. She lives in Ohio with her husband and two children and looks forward to the day when all three of them become adults and move out.
After working in the brokerage business for fourteen years, Tara decided to pick up a pen and write instead of shoving it in her eye out of boredom. She writes in a wide range of genres including Romantic Comedy, Romantic Comedy/Mystery, Romantic Suspense, New Adult Drama, Contemporary Romance and Psychological Thriller. Her novel Seduction and Snacks won first place in the Indie Romance Convention Reader's Choice Awards 2013 for Best Indie First Book and she was voted Best Indie Author in the Indie Romance Convention Reader's Choice Awards 2014.
In her spare time, Tara loves to dream about all of the baking she'll do and naps she'll take when she ever gets spare time.
After working in the brokerage business for fourteen years, Tara decided to pick up a pen and write instead of shoving it in her eye out of boredom. She writes in a wide range of genres including Romantic Comedy, Romantic Comedy/Mystery, Romantic Suspense, New Adult Drama, Contemporary Romance and Psychological Thriller. Her novel Seduction and Snacks won first place in the Indie Romance Convention Reader's Choice Awards 2013 for Best Indie First Book and she was voted Best Indie Author in the Indie Romance Convention Reader's Choice Awards 2014.
In her spare time, Tara loves to dream about all of the baking she'll do and naps she'll take when she ever gets spare time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
July 25, 2022
Danny (Danica/Tinsley) + Ryan
We're back on our favorite Island!
This time nerdy Math teacher and Bowling aficionado Ryan will get his happily ever after.
With his new roommate Danny. She's kinda running away from her controlling family and is new to the island. Her idiot brother asked his college buddy Ryan to keep an eye on her.
But Ryan has already had more than an eye on her - before he even knew who she was. Whoops.
Let the fun times begin...
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LOL! ADORABLE!
Another super fun and adorable and islandy rom-com. I just loved this!
And now I'm going to just quote a part of my review for the last Summersweet book - because I'm lazy and because it still applies:
"If you're new to this series, please go back and read all the other books before starting this one! This group of people is so amazing! I really need this to be a Netflix show! The guys are so hilarious with their crafting and glitter and gossiping! If you haven't done some glitter-crafting with Shep, Palmer, Dean and Bodhi - you haven't lived. LOL! I just love this series so much!"
This time we have this adorable tattooed roommate/nerd trope and it was so cute and funny and sparky and just perfect!
Danny is running away from a lot back home and now she's finally happy to live in a place with friends and where people understand her and her art. And Ryan. Oy. He's so sweet and perfect, but of course it takes our darlings a little while to get to that happy end. Ryan is not having the easiest time either - his dad wants him to be the next mayor - not at all how Ryan sees his life going.
Adorable romance with an amazing cast!
Now can someone on the Island please come and adopt me?
Also...I'm ready for Spencer and Melanie's story now! GIMMEE!
SPARE ME was such an adorable + hilarious island love story. I just loved it! Hurry to your nearest amazon for your own Ryan ... he'll be sold out in no time!
💜
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January 13, 2023
I wanted to give this 5⭐️ for the vibes, laughs and feels but grand gestures kill me 😂
I LOVED THIS SO MUCH. This was almost a perfect read for me. The only things that made it not so perfect was how much second-hand embarrassment I got from the public grand gesture. (I feel like it's in every American rom-com, or just romance.) Prob because the introvert in me cringes so hard I get muscle cramps. The other thing that annoyed me a smidge was the lack of better communication between MCs. It wasn't terrible, I just wanted there to be more.
Now on to the fun stuff. I genuinely laughed throughout the entirety of this book. That is skill. Go Tara Sivec! There was a role reversal for the FMC and MMC in that we had an insecure, unsure, awkward, rambley MMC and a FMC who had to be the instigator, the one making the first moves. Holy smokes, I did NOT know I needed this in my life?! This is so relatable too because men can be insecure and women can make first moves, so why do we never see this?! I was so attracted to both of the characters because of it 😂😂. The way this feels real, like I could go to this small town and actually believe these characters live and work there. This world that was created was an amazing escape.
Just because Ryan (MMC) was awkward and a nerd (🥰) didn't mean when it came to sexy times he was fumbling. That was his time to shine and boiii, did they both shine. Sexy af. Loved how much smut we got. The cover tried to fool us, but I know better now 😏
Dani (FMC) was tough but sensitive. She kept making me swoon I swear. Respected the hell outta her and then she'd go, I want someone to fight for me for once and I'm crying 😭😭 If I could, I would. She deserved all the best.
I know some will say the MMC doesn't deserve her after everything that happened, but I believe he did. People really underestimate what bullying and living with insecurities does to your self worth. It was such an accurate depiction and wonderful story of growth and connection. Gahhhhh, I just loved this. Read it please.
Now I need to go back and read the other books because the side characters I met sound lovely and fun.
I LOVED THIS SO MUCH. This was almost a perfect read for me. The only things that made it not so perfect was how much second-hand embarrassment I got from the public grand gesture. (I feel like it's in every American rom-com, or just romance.) Prob because the introvert in me cringes so hard I get muscle cramps. The other thing that annoyed me a smidge was the lack of better communication between MCs. It wasn't terrible, I just wanted there to be more.
Now on to the fun stuff. I genuinely laughed throughout the entirety of this book. That is skill. Go Tara Sivec! There was a role reversal for the FMC and MMC in that we had an insecure, unsure, awkward, rambley MMC and a FMC who had to be the instigator, the one making the first moves. Holy smokes, I did NOT know I needed this in my life?! This is so relatable too because men can be insecure and women can make first moves, so why do we never see this?! I was so attracted to both of the characters because of it 😂😂. The way this feels real, like I could go to this small town and actually believe these characters live and work there. This world that was created was an amazing escape.
Just because Ryan (MMC) was awkward and a nerd (🥰) didn't mean when it came to sexy times he was fumbling. That was his time to shine and boiii, did they both shine. Sexy af. Loved how much smut we got. The cover tried to fool us, but I know better now 😏
Dani (FMC) was tough but sensitive. She kept making me swoon I swear. Respected the hell outta her and then she'd go, I want someone to fight for me for once and I'm crying 😭😭 If I could, I would. She deserved all the best.
I know some will say the MMC doesn't deserve her after everything that happened, but I believe he did. People really underestimate what bullying and living with insecurities does to your self worth. It was such an accurate depiction and wonderful story of growth and connection. Gahhhhh, I just loved this. Read it please.
Now I need to go back and read the other books because the side characters I met sound lovely and fun.
July 18, 2022
I’ll just start by saying that while this is the sixth book in the Summersweet Island series it could be read as a standalone BUT I’ll tell you why that’s a bad idea. This series is one of my faves when I want to legitimately laugh out loud, every book is hilarious and I’ve become super attached to each couple. So reading them all in order provides you with the ultimate experience so I definitely recommend all six books. They’re seriously so so good!
It’s always awesome to be reunited with the residents of the island and they’re every bit as outrageous and silly as ever. I’ve been super curious about Ryan for awhile now and he was the absolute cutest, sweetest most adorable hero ever and he may have even edged Bohdi out for my favorite male islander now. Danny was also awesome and I loved how she brought Ryan out of his shell and brought out a new side to him while still very much appreciating his true self. I always say I’ll pace myself when I read one of these books but I lied again and finished in a day. Sigh. I am really hoping the next book follows Spencer and Melanie and will be counting down the days until I’m back on the island.
It’s always awesome to be reunited with the residents of the island and they’re every bit as outrageous and silly as ever. I’ve been super curious about Ryan for awhile now and he was the absolute cutest, sweetest most adorable hero ever and he may have even edged Bohdi out for my favorite male islander now. Danny was also awesome and I loved how she brought Ryan out of his shell and brought out a new side to him while still very much appreciating his true self. I always say I’ll pace myself when I read one of these books but I lied again and finished in a day. Sigh. I am really hoping the next book follows Spencer and Melanie and will be counting down the days until I’m back on the island.
July 28, 2022
Spare Me by Tara Sivec
Romantic Comedy. Book 6 in the Summersweet Island Series. Can stand alone.
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“A nerd fell in love with a nut job, and that’s some Summersweet Island, magical fairy-tale shit you just don’t mess with.”
That quote describes The Summersweet Island Series by Tara Sivec perfectly. Every time I go back to the Island for a new installment of the series, it’s like going away for a fairytale weekend with my best friends, but even better. You can start the series with Spare Me , which is book 6, but it will be so much better if you start at the beginning of the whole story with Kiss My Putt (currently 99¢).
Just when I thought With This Fling would be the perfect end to the series, Tara released Spare Me , and it looks like we have another book coming. Usually, after 5-6 books I’ve had enough of a series, but noooooo, that is not the case here! I was positively giddy to go back to my favorite island again.
We met our hero, Ryan, in Emily & Quinn’s story. Emily basically left Ryan for Quinn. Ryan is the nice, kind-of-nerdy math teacher, bowling coach, and mayor’s son who just wants everyone to like him. So when a crazy, beautiful girl with tattoos and red-tipped hair surprises him with the kiss of his life, Ryan’s world is turned upside-down. Especially when he finds out that she’s Danica, the sister of a ‘friend’ who he is giving a place to stay with him for a while.
“Do you like fisting in the rain?”
Text and email conversations are one of my favorite things in a book, and I just loved their text conversations, especially the autocorrect fails!
Let me tell you, this book was funny, sweet, and silly, but it also brought the HEAT! I swear, I needed a cigarette after one scene. Ryan may be a nerd in the streets, but he’s a freak in the sheets!
“Let’s go. I only have eight more hours until a tutoring session in the morning, and I’ve got a lot more rooms in this house I need to disrespect you in.”
Lest you think Spare Me is all fun and games, there was definitely some angst that just about killed me.
Likes:
•It made me laugh out loud (as always).
•Visiting with all the Summersweet Island crew.
•The tease of another story.
•These covers are all amazing.
•I want to move there and be friends with all of these guys so much! Me and Bodhi would be best buds! <—Buds? Ha! See what I did there?
•Speaking of buds, Tara’s edible scenes or drunk scenes are always my favorite.
•It was HOT.
•The angst really got me in the feels!
•It was the perfect addition to the Summersweet Island Series.
•The boy’s “hangout” ahem (craft lair).
•All the texting.
Dislikes:
•I loved it all.
The Down & Dirty:
It’s no secret that Tara Sivec is my favorite author, and The Summersweet Island Series perfectly illustrates why. Spare Me is a zany, feel-good comedy that’s a great read between dark or sad books. Who am I kidding, it’s the perfect read anytime. This series is getting long, so it might seem overwhelming if you haven’t started yet, but let me assure you, these are all fast and fun reads and it’s SO WORTH IT. I loved Spare Me and spending time with my favorite Summersweet characters again.
Rating: 4.75 Stars, 4 Heat
Purchase Spare Me by Tara Sivec
See the full series order with blurbs, links, reviews, and couple names here.
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August 12, 2022
This is my first book I think by Ms. Sivec and I need to go check out her backlist now! I was in the mood for something funny and light, but still with some meat in it (you can take that a couple ways lol) and I found it here! I loved the quirky town, the nerdy and sweet H with a hidden assertive side that only comes out with the h, the h who was sweet, confident most of the time, and a bit spontaneous but also vulnerable. I really enjoyed the dynamics of how supportive the main characters were of each other, even when they misstep and have to set things right with each other. The story is written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama (we do see H's ex but she's part of a friend group and is super nice, no drama involved), a bit of om drama from h's ex, neither are virgins (unsure of how long it's been for each but the H had a five date minimum rule and couldn't get past the first date recently), and bc discussed.
Both our H and h had family dynamics that were challenging. Danica (h) is trying to start over away from her awful family and pursue her art. When she opens up about how her family treated her, it broke my heart. While Ryan's (H) family is much better, as an integral part of the small, island town, he feels pressure from his dad to be the next mayor. All he wants to do though is continue to be a high school math teacher and bowling coach. Their meet-cute is hilarious and a nice tease of what's to come later. I loved that they end up as roommates and feel all this attraction to each other, but neither knows how to (or if they should) hop over the line. Ryan's a great guy but he also has a lot of insecurities and Danica has to be the one to put herself out there more to start. Once the line gets crossed though, whew things steam up majorly! There's also a side of j/p and "mine" that happens.
In a lot of ways, both Ryan and Danica needed to gain confidence in themselves and I thought there was great growth for both of them. Esp with how Ryan loosens up, it's hilarious and also makes you proud of him. The side characters (most who've had books previously, although this is my first in the series) are extra all around. Sometimes it veered close to being OTT but I was in the mood so I just got a lot of laughs from the situations. There's a strong support system around both the H and h in the community.
The main conflict was frustrating and I didn't see it coming, but I thought it fit the characters well. How it's resolved was also excellent and I loved so much about the scenes. The book ends with a HFN a short time jump ahead. I would have liked a more extended epilogue, but it's clear past characters show up in future characters' books. The H does think about how he's going to propose and I ended the book with a huge smile on my face and feeling all warm and happy. I would recommend this book, it may be a bit silly for some readers, but the writing was excellent, the characters nicely fleshed out, and I'm definitely reading more from this author.
Both our H and h had family dynamics that were challenging. Danica (h) is trying to start over away from her awful family and pursue her art. When she opens up about how her family treated her, it broke my heart. While Ryan's (H) family is much better, as an integral part of the small, island town, he feels pressure from his dad to be the next mayor. All he wants to do though is continue to be a high school math teacher and bowling coach. Their meet-cute is hilarious and a nice tease of what's to come later. I loved that they end up as roommates and feel all this attraction to each other, but neither knows how to (or if they should) hop over the line. Ryan's a great guy but he also has a lot of insecurities and Danica has to be the one to put herself out there more to start. Once the line gets crossed though, whew things steam up majorly! There's also a side of j/p and "mine" that happens.
In a lot of ways, both Ryan and Danica needed to gain confidence in themselves and I thought there was great growth for both of them. Esp with how Ryan loosens up, it's hilarious and also makes you proud of him. The side characters (most who've had books previously, although this is my first in the series) are extra all around. Sometimes it veered close to being OTT but I was in the mood so I just got a lot of laughs from the situations. There's a strong support system around both the H and h in the community.
The main conflict was frustrating and I didn't see it coming, but I thought it fit the characters well. How it's resolved was also excellent and I loved so much about the scenes. The book ends with a HFN a short time jump ahead. I would have liked a more extended epilogue, but it's clear past characters show up in future characters' books. The H does think about how he's going to propose and I ended the book with a huge smile on my face and feeling all warm and happy. I would recommend this book, it may be a bit silly for some readers, but the writing was excellent, the characters nicely fleshed out, and I'm definitely reading more from this author.
July 27, 2022
I am not sure which sport happens to be next but I am so looking forward to whatever Tara Sivec decides is next to take over Summersweet Island. Who would have ever thought that Bowling would be a sport to fall in love over. You know that there is no way you are not going to laugh throughout this story. From the pizza parlor to sip and bitch. From the bowling lanes to the foyer. I laughed out loud at Ryan and Danica. Bumbling texts that turn into hysterical sexts that there is no way Danica can pass on, lead the way to these to “roomies” facing their problems and finding love while hoping their problems go away. But, do they just go away or pop up when you least expect them? I guess you could figure out which happened before these two find their happily ever after.
The whole gang is back, glitter, lighters and pot and all the fun that goes along with them. Gotta love Bohdi and his antics. Now, they have two new people to bring into their circle of friends to wreck havoc on Summersweet Island including the Mayor’s son. But, it was a blast watching Ryan finally come out of his shell, stand up to all the bullies and face father.
This review would not be complete without mentioning Dottie. What a hoot Grandma Dottie was. I loved how he just spoke her mind and didn’t care what anyone thought of her. What a way to live your life.
I’m not sure where Tara Sivec comes up with her ideas. For some reason, I picture her sitting behind her screen and laughing her head off saying … wait until they read this one. I mean it really takes a twisted mind to come up with a “sex” painting or “Monster Cock” trophy. But, it so fits Summersweet Island and the antics that happen here. Seriously though, Tara Sivec mixes the right amount of humor with a bit of angst to give us stories that are laugh-out-loud funny, sweet and lacking any romance. If you are looking for a romantic romance, yea, no, you are not getting it here. But, you would be getting a wonderful story of opposites attracting and true love winning out!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
The whole gang is back, glitter, lighters and pot and all the fun that goes along with them. Gotta love Bohdi and his antics. Now, they have two new people to bring into their circle of friends to wreck havoc on Summersweet Island including the Mayor’s son. But, it was a blast watching Ryan finally come out of his shell, stand up to all the bullies and face father.
This review would not be complete without mentioning Dottie. What a hoot Grandma Dottie was. I loved how he just spoke her mind and didn’t care what anyone thought of her. What a way to live your life.
I’m not sure where Tara Sivec comes up with her ideas. For some reason, I picture her sitting behind her screen and laughing her head off saying … wait until they read this one. I mean it really takes a twisted mind to come up with a “sex” painting or “Monster Cock” trophy. But, it so fits Summersweet Island and the antics that happen here. Seriously though, Tara Sivec mixes the right amount of humor with a bit of angst to give us stories that are laugh-out-loud funny, sweet and lacking any romance. If you are looking for a romantic romance, yea, no, you are not getting it here. But, you would be getting a wonderful story of opposites attracting and true love winning out!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
July 24, 2022
Can a nerdy math teacher/bowling coach find love with a tattooed artist hiding from her family?
If their spontaneous kiss during their meet cute is any indication, then the chances are good.
Ryan Hutton is a people pleaser. He is the good guy always doing the right thing, even if that right thing is slightly boring. So, when an old college "friend", Tristan, rings him up and asks if his sister can crash at his place while she gets her life back in order, Ryan doesn't hesitate to say yes. Yet Dannica "Danny" Brewster is far from who he expected to show up at his door. And is just the temptress that may shake some life into Ryan after all.
As odd as their pairing seemed, Ryan and Danny just work. I loved how she got Ryan to take chances, try new things and live on the edge. On top of that, she seemed to revel in Ryan's nerdy side, rather than be repelled by it. And the stream between them is off the charts.
The crazy that is Summersweet Island is not toned down in this installment, and it was great to see this couple quickly welcomed into this series' cast of over-the-top characters. Like the other books, there is also some drama that threatens the future for this couple. But while there is some heartbreak, the angst is very minimal, and the drama is quickly resolved in a sweet moment.
I suspect we'll get at least one more book in this series, possibly with Ryan's BFF, Spencer. . . . we'll see if I'm right. Either way, I'm looking forward to whatever this author delivers next.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
If their spontaneous kiss during their meet cute is any indication, then the chances are good.
Ryan Hutton is a people pleaser. He is the good guy always doing the right thing, even if that right thing is slightly boring. So, when an old college "friend", Tristan, rings him up and asks if his sister can crash at his place while she gets her life back in order, Ryan doesn't hesitate to say yes. Yet Dannica "Danny" Brewster is far from who he expected to show up at his door. And is just the temptress that may shake some life into Ryan after all.
As odd as their pairing seemed, Ryan and Danny just work. I loved how she got Ryan to take chances, try new things and live on the edge. On top of that, she seemed to revel in Ryan's nerdy side, rather than be repelled by it. And the stream between them is off the charts.
The crazy that is Summersweet Island is not toned down in this installment, and it was great to see this couple quickly welcomed into this series' cast of over-the-top characters. Like the other books, there is also some drama that threatens the future for this couple. But while there is some heartbreak, the angst is very minimal, and the drama is quickly resolved in a sweet moment.
I suspect we'll get at least one more book in this series, possibly with Ryan's BFF, Spencer. . . . we'll see if I'm right. Either way, I'm looking forward to whatever this author delivers next.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
July 20, 2022
Welcome back to Summersweet Island, VA.
If you haven't read the previous four , you are in for a treat (and you really do need to go back and read them!)
This time we have the ten pin bowling coach and the tattooed hottie. Oh, there are so many balls jokes to be had here!
Add in that they are now roommates, that they are both running from family commitments and the hilarious people of Summersweet Island, and I just adored this story.
The extended family of this Island has grown throughout the series, and I loved seeing them all come together. And this time Bodhi and Tess didn't annoy me as much as they have in previous books.
Someone as sweet at Ryan could come across as annoying and anal (hehehe) but he just comes across as wonderful and perfect for Danny.
There were a few people I wanted to nut-punch, but they may or may not have gotten their comeuppance by the end of the story.
I want to move to Summersweet Islande - who is coming with me?
If you haven't read the previous four , you are in for a treat (and you really do need to go back and read them!)
This time we have the ten pin bowling coach and the tattooed hottie. Oh, there are so many balls jokes to be had here!
Add in that they are now roommates, that they are both running from family commitments and the hilarious people of Summersweet Island, and I just adored this story.
The extended family of this Island has grown throughout the series, and I loved seeing them all come together. And this time Bodhi and Tess didn't annoy me as much as they have in previous books.
Someone as sweet at Ryan could come across as annoying and anal (hehehe) but he just comes across as wonderful and perfect for Danny.
There were a few people I wanted to nut-punch, but they may or may not have gotten their comeuppance by the end of the story.
I want to move to Summersweet Islande - who is coming with me?
July 29, 2022
Laugh out loud
Spare is a laugh out loud until you have tears rolling down your face read. I loved every moment that is Ryan and Danny. You have the bowling, Lego loving nerd in Ryan and the free spirit bit of a wild child that is Danny. They just mesh so well together and the chemistry is just so hot. I love Danny and how much she just fits in with the rest of the ladies in the Summersweet Island. Its so much fun watching Ryan come out of his shell. I simply adore this book. Tara Sivec brings the laughter and heart with this one. I'm so in love with the whole Sumersweet Island series. I could not get enough of this one. You need to binge this series now if you haven't had the chance to yet.
Spare is a laugh out loud until you have tears rolling down your face read. I loved every moment that is Ryan and Danny. You have the bowling, Lego loving nerd in Ryan and the free spirit bit of a wild child that is Danny. They just mesh so well together and the chemistry is just so hot. I love Danny and how much she just fits in with the rest of the ladies in the Summersweet Island. Its so much fun watching Ryan come out of his shell. I simply adore this book. Tara Sivec brings the laughter and heart with this one. I'm so in love with the whole Sumersweet Island series. I could not get enough of this one. You need to binge this series now if you haven't had the chance to yet.
July 21, 2022
Oh my gosh, this book, I was laughing so hard in bed the dogs were giving me dirty looks and jumping out of bed to get away from me. There was even one part that kept me laughing so hard with tears in my eyes that I couldn’t go on to read more for like 5-10 minutes! And when I tried to eat my lunch while reading? I had to be really careful because there a few moments when I took a bite and might have choked because of the laugh that started by my gasping at one of the numerous hilarious texting autocorrects.
First thing I want to talk about though is how much I loved that the main character was a bowling coach at a high school. You see, my last two years at the last school I worked at, I was the assistant bowling coach, so this kind of story seemed right up my alley. Get it? See what I did there? lol I love a good pun. And math teacher Ryan’s math jokes would have really been something I would have been attracted to. Well, besides the rest of him! I mean yeah he was nerdy, but I do appreciate a good nerdy guy. But what was the term that was used for him in this book? Nerd in the streets, freak in the sheets? Yeah, that’s my kind of guy.
And then there was Danny, loved her spunk, and her tattoos and all of her artisticness. It was also neat to have her taken in by the women of Summersweet Island that we know from the other books in the series. She had one thing she said that is totally my same thought, about getting tattoos and making sure they are something meaningful. Even if it is a spur of the moment decision to get one, make sure you pick something that will mean something to you and you won’t regret it. Unfortunately for me, I am not like her, and I think this is the type of girl that my nerdy guys often prefer.
I love this island so much that I wish I could move there myself. I mean everyone drives golf carts everywhere. The men and their craft nights, excuse me “activity” nights, lol. And oh, I just cannot stop laughing about the texting mistakes that Ryan’s phone would send Danny. Especially the first one, “Do you like fisting in the rain?”
Seriously, if you haven’t read Tara Sivec, and you love to laugh, you need to grab this series right away! You can start with any book, but it is nice to have background with the characters. Even though I haven’t read them all, you get to know the characters, like Bodhi and Tess, and they do their best to steal the scenes!
Oh, and while I thought this would be the last one, we sure get a bit of a set up for Ryan’s friend and one of Danny’s first friends on the island.
First thing I want to talk about though is how much I loved that the main character was a bowling coach at a high school. You see, my last two years at the last school I worked at, I was the assistant bowling coach, so this kind of story seemed right up my alley. Get it? See what I did there? lol I love a good pun. And math teacher Ryan’s math jokes would have really been something I would have been attracted to. Well, besides the rest of him! I mean yeah he was nerdy, but I do appreciate a good nerdy guy. But what was the term that was used for him in this book? Nerd in the streets, freak in the sheets? Yeah, that’s my kind of guy.
And then there was Danny, loved her spunk, and her tattoos and all of her artisticness. It was also neat to have her taken in by the women of Summersweet Island that we know from the other books in the series. She had one thing she said that is totally my same thought, about getting tattoos and making sure they are something meaningful. Even if it is a spur of the moment decision to get one, make sure you pick something that will mean something to you and you won’t regret it. Unfortunately for me, I am not like her, and I think this is the type of girl that my nerdy guys often prefer.
I love this island so much that I wish I could move there myself. I mean everyone drives golf carts everywhere. The men and their craft nights, excuse me “activity” nights, lol. And oh, I just cannot stop laughing about the texting mistakes that Ryan’s phone would send Danny. Especially the first one, “Do you like fisting in the rain?”
Seriously, if you haven’t read Tara Sivec, and you love to laugh, you need to grab this series right away! You can start with any book, but it is nice to have background with the characters. Even though I haven’t read them all, you get to know the characters, like Bodhi and Tess, and they do their best to steal the scenes!
Oh, and while I thought this would be the last one, we sure get a bit of a set up for Ryan’s friend and one of Danny’s first friends on the island.
July 16, 2022
The Nerd and the Nut Job. This is another great book in the series. Love the characters and the storyline. The comedy and sports references, make it even better.
July 28, 2022
Ryan and Dannica's story is sweet and romantic, from the ir meet cute to all their interactions. It was a sport romcom with emotional sides that will have you reading. This awkward couple actually makes it work, never thought a bowling coach and a tattooed artist will get this type of chemistry but it does. Another great addition to the Summersweet Island series.
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August 3, 2022
Hysterically funny!
This book is hysterical! I laughed so much and so hard. Ryan is the softly spoken, sweet, kindhearted one in the relationship. Danny is rougher around the edges. She has learned to speak up for herself and fight for what she wants. The storyline was sweet, angsty and full on funny. I just loved this book!
This book is hysterical! I laughed so much and so hard. Ryan is the softly spoken, sweet, kindhearted one in the relationship. Danny is rougher around the edges. She has learned to speak up for herself and fight for what she wants. The storyline was sweet, angsty and full on funny. I just loved this book!
April 21, 2024
I didn’t realize I needed Ryan’s story until I had it, and I think it is my favourite of the series! He is such a nice guy, and Dani empowers him to stand up for himself. Even all their miscommunications happen because they are both being nice to the other, or so they think. Watching these two stumble and act out of their normal character, but totally who they are, was all sorts of fun and definitely swoon-worthy <3
December 31, 2022
Did I read a different book than everyone else? There was really not much to enjoy here and it went off the rails with so many stupid, immature, ridiculous stories.
A list of stupid things:
- everyone still acts like they’re 15. She calls him nerd (even jokingly, its weird). He’s so excited the “cool kids” like him (he legit said cool kids). He practically cries when he has a guys night…where they craft with glitter and yarn (I can’t make up this stupidity). He lets his high school bully continue to walk all over him.
- are we really to believe he’s NEVER had any guy friends…because he bowls and likes Lego?? He’s in his 30s for fucks sake, this is ridiculous and unbelievable. How has he never had friends but his last girlfriend was a super hot cheerleader? Make it make sense.
- literally everything about her family and ex are extreme, unnecessary, dramatic, wholly unbelievable.
- she gave up her trust fund. No wait! She didn’t! Yes, she did! It contradicts the whole way through and then tries to summarize that it was money from her mother’s family so it was ok to keep (as opposed to her father who is a crooked businessman).
- all the sex is cringy. He’s a meek, friendless nerd…who is super hot and suddenly becomes dominant and dirty in the bedroom. His last girlfriend said sex was super boring with him, but alas its ok because Danny helps bring out the beast (again, his words). Then he gets scared that by being a little dirty he scared her. I laughed and rolled my eyes. Nothing about this was sexy. And the fact that everyone(!!) refers to his “monster cock”…again, are they in high school? What grown ups speak this way?!
- no chemistry. None.
A list of stupid things:
- everyone still acts like they’re 15. She calls him nerd (even jokingly, its weird). He’s so excited the “cool kids” like him (he legit said cool kids). He practically cries when he has a guys night…where they craft with glitter and yarn (I can’t make up this stupidity). He lets his high school bully continue to walk all over him.
- are we really to believe he’s NEVER had any guy friends…because he bowls and likes Lego?? He’s in his 30s for fucks sake, this is ridiculous and unbelievable. How has he never had friends but his last girlfriend was a super hot cheerleader? Make it make sense.
- literally everything about her family and ex are extreme, unnecessary, dramatic, wholly unbelievable.
- she gave up her trust fund. No wait! She didn’t! Yes, she did! It contradicts the whole way through and then tries to summarize that it was money from her mother’s family so it was ok to keep (as opposed to her father who is a crooked businessman).
- all the sex is cringy. He’s a meek, friendless nerd…who is super hot and suddenly becomes dominant and dirty in the bedroom. His last girlfriend said sex was super boring with him, but alas its ok because Danny helps bring out the beast (again, his words). Then he gets scared that by being a little dirty he scared her. I laughed and rolled my eyes. Nothing about this was sexy. And the fact that everyone(!!) refers to his “monster cock”…again, are they in high school? What grown ups speak this way?!
- no chemistry. None.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2022
“You’re not doing anything wrong. You… You do everything right. I feel like I can’t breathe when I’m around you. I feel like I’m losing my mind every time I look at you. You have no idea how much I wanted to kiss you out in that rain.”
🎳
Review: Spare Me by Tara Sivec. Summersweet Island Book 6.
🎨
This series, you guys. It’s so funny, with every book Tara delivers some sassy characters, laughs a galore, great family and friends units, lost of sexy times (btw I think this is the spiciest book of the series) and, last but not least, a touch of emotion. And that wasn’t different with Ryan and Danica’s story.
Ryan knew his fate since he was a kid, he’d be the mayor of Summersweet following the steps of his dad. But what he truly loves is being a math teacher and bowling professionally. He is a 100% nerd and let me tell you, being a nerd never look so good! He has a dirty mouth, is kind and maybe a caveman. I love him to pieces. He is kind of insecure in himself when comes to relationship, since his last one didn’t end so well for him.
Enter Danica, the girl is a spitfire, genius, caring and has a zero policy for bullshit. She’s spending some time in the island trying to cut off her daemon of a family, she had enough of their evil behavior and how they never support her dreams of painting. I adore her, she knows her value and is such a good friend. In personality, she’s the total opposite of him, right? Well, they say the opposites attract and ohh they did.
The way they “met” was hilarious, poor Ryan didn’t know what hit him. When they realized who they were to each other, they thought they could stop their feelings, but it was so late. They were perfect and they brought a better side of one another. But don’t try to mess with their love and life, one of them will bring the claws out. I’m obsessed with the end it was so fitting for this incredible couple. Love this book.
🎳
Review: Spare Me by Tara Sivec. Summersweet Island Book 6.
🎨
This series, you guys. It’s so funny, with every book Tara delivers some sassy characters, laughs a galore, great family and friends units, lost of sexy times (btw I think this is the spiciest book of the series) and, last but not least, a touch of emotion. And that wasn’t different with Ryan and Danica’s story.
Ryan knew his fate since he was a kid, he’d be the mayor of Summersweet following the steps of his dad. But what he truly loves is being a math teacher and bowling professionally. He is a 100% nerd and let me tell you, being a nerd never look so good! He has a dirty mouth, is kind and maybe a caveman. I love him to pieces. He is kind of insecure in himself when comes to relationship, since his last one didn’t end so well for him.
Enter Danica, the girl is a spitfire, genius, caring and has a zero policy for bullshit. She’s spending some time in the island trying to cut off her daemon of a family, she had enough of their evil behavior and how they never support her dreams of painting. I adore her, she knows her value and is such a good friend. In personality, she’s the total opposite of him, right? Well, they say the opposites attract and ohh they did.
The way they “met” was hilarious, poor Ryan didn’t know what hit him. When they realized who they were to each other, they thought they could stop their feelings, but it was so late. They were perfect and they brought a better side of one another. But don’t try to mess with their love and life, one of them will bring the claws out. I’m obsessed with the end it was so fitting for this incredible couple. Love this book.
July 29, 2022
This one was so cute! I loved how nerdy/dorky Ryan was. Danny was perfect for him, let him be comfortable out of his comfort zone and encouraged him to do things. Ryan was just as good for Danny, someone to encourage her and root for her to do what she wanted with her life. Once these two let themselves start something there was no stopping them. I hated how a blast from Danny's past almost ruined everything. Glad that both of them came to their senses quickly.
July 25, 2022
4.5 stars
Spare Me is a cute, funny, outrageously fun rom-com continuing the Summersweet Island series -- there’s just something about this island and it’s sports! Tying in bowling is an added fun. As a game most people play for fun, it was a hoot to watch Ryan play and coach with so much seriousness.
I’m so glad Ryan got a story -- when we met him in the background of First and Tension I felt a little bad for him because he was out of touch with what his relationship was at the time. Now, he still struggles with some insecurities (which at times felt a little over the top) but he is working on being comfortable with who he is. He is a little nerdy, a lot sweet, and the perfect guy next door.
Dani was an interesting dichotomy. I had a hard time figuring out exactly what she was avoiding by staying on Summersweet and why her brother was going through Ryan to convince her to return and go through with the family’s plan, while also loving they way she settled into the town so smoothly.
Together, they were just so much fun. Complete opposites, they balance out the rough edges and give each other the space to figure things out. He is quiet, reserved, and shy, while she is outgoing, carefree, and free spirited. I loved the way they challenged and supported each other as they figured out whether their situation should remain roommates or if they should add more to the story.
This was an adorable fun return to Summersweet Island. As usual, the whole gang is involved in the shenanigans. I always look forward to spending time in this entertaining world and can’t wait for Melanie and Spencer’s story that is teased at the end.
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Spare Me is a cute, funny, outrageously fun rom-com continuing the Summersweet Island series -- there’s just something about this island and it’s sports! Tying in bowling is an added fun. As a game most people play for fun, it was a hoot to watch Ryan play and coach with so much seriousness.
I’m so glad Ryan got a story -- when we met him in the background of First and Tension I felt a little bad for him because he was out of touch with what his relationship was at the time. Now, he still struggles with some insecurities (which at times felt a little over the top) but he is working on being comfortable with who he is. He is a little nerdy, a lot sweet, and the perfect guy next door.
Dani was an interesting dichotomy. I had a hard time figuring out exactly what she was avoiding by staying on Summersweet and why her brother was going through Ryan to convince her to return and go through with the family’s plan, while also loving they way she settled into the town so smoothly.
Together, they were just so much fun. Complete opposites, they balance out the rough edges and give each other the space to figure things out. He is quiet, reserved, and shy, while she is outgoing, carefree, and free spirited. I loved the way they challenged and supported each other as they figured out whether their situation should remain roommates or if they should add more to the story.
This was an adorable fun return to Summersweet Island. As usual, the whole gang is involved in the shenanigans. I always look forward to spending time in this entertaining world and can’t wait for Melanie and Spencer’s story that is teased at the end.
October 13, 2025
I loved this book! Both Ryan and Danica were fantastic characters, and it was so much fun to watch them fall for each other. Highly recommend if you’re wanting something light, funny, sweet, and well-written. Audio was also great!
August 15, 2022
Loved!!!! I would say my favorite of the series, but they are all my favorite of the series!
October 2, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
October 27, 2022
cute! a quick and easy read. if you're looking for a book that features a shy and nerdy guy but a secret dirty talker between the sheets, ryan is the one you're looking for.
July 31, 2022
4.5⭐
I overall liked this book. And I freaking loved Ryan. But the one point he pissed me of was at the end when he was upset of Danny leaving him. You showed zilch trust and she was obviously hurt and you did not go after her. I understand where he was coming from and why he eventually doubted her but seriously he should have apologized after her explanations. But he didn't. That was disappointing. And why Danny was always ready to forgive kinda girl? First time I get it it was new so understandable. But ugh...
And what the heck with all those sudden redemptions? I wasn't sure what to think of Ryan's father through the whole book. Cause from Ryan's pov he appears good but what we see was someone who judge people by status and outlook and has a leash on his son. And Danny's mom? She just fell from the sky out of nowhere. Oh well I don't have energy to whine and I don't want to cause except that one thing I actually loved this book. Soft hero has a soft spot in my heart and it's freakishly funny as well with a plot.
I overall liked this book. And I freaking loved Ryan. But the one point he pissed me of was at the end when he was upset of Danny leaving him. You showed zilch trust and she was obviously hurt and you did not go after her. I understand where he was coming from and why he eventually doubted her but seriously he should have apologized after her explanations. But he didn't. That was disappointing. And why Danny was always ready to forgive kinda girl? First time I get it it was new so understandable. But ugh...
And what the heck with all those sudden redemptions? I wasn't sure what to think of Ryan's father through the whole book. Cause from Ryan's pov he appears good but what we see was someone who judge people by status and outlook and has a leash on his son. And Danny's mom? She just fell from the sky out of nowhere. Oh well I don't have energy to whine and I don't want to cause except that one thing I actually loved this book. Soft hero has a soft spot in my heart and it's freakishly funny as well with a plot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2022
4.3 stars
Another cute addition to this series.the sip club is hilarious as are all the guys when they get together. Love Danica and Ryan.
I did wish a few things had been ironed out nothing bad enough to not make me enjoy it or not make me want to read what's next.
Another cute addition to this series.the sip club is hilarious as are all the guys when they get together. Love Danica and Ryan.
I did wish a few things had been ironed out nothing bad enough to not make me enjoy it or not make me want to read what's next.
July 23, 2022
POV- Dual
Spice Level- 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
“𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙙𝙮, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙙. 𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚, 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚—𝙠𝙝𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙨, 𝙥𝙤𝙡𝙮𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙤𝙬𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙧𝙩𝙨, 𝙇𝙚𝙜𝙤𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡.”
If this book was a score in bowling, it would be a perfect game! It checks off all the boxes for my idea of a perfect romcom read. I’ve read a lot of hilarious books but this one might just be the funniest one yet! There were so many literal LOL moments that I’m glad I read this one In the privacy of my own home.
I am absolutely here for books that feature the nerdy guy getting the rebel “bad” girl, and Ryan and Danny (also known as Danica/Tinsley) are perfect together. I love how Danny helps Ryan become the best version of himself but also loves him as he is and vice versa. Ryan is so swoony with everything he does and even if he is a little insecure, it made him all the more endearing. The steamy times in this book were even better because of the way Ryan really let go and wasn’t so controlled and proper when it was just the two of them🔥
This is a standalone, but one of the best parts of this book are the friendships, and fans of the series will love seeing their favorites support Ryan and Danny, even if that support usually ends in chaos! While the book isn’t angsty, there is more than one villain causing problems and I felt a very strong dislike for them, but of course they get what’s coming and we still get the best HEA. I can’t wait for what’s next is this quirky island town!
Spice Level- 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
“𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙙𝙮, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙙. 𝙎𝙝𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚, 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚—𝙠𝙝𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙨, 𝙥𝙤𝙡𝙮𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙤𝙬𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙧𝙩𝙨, 𝙇𝙚𝙜𝙤𝙨, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡.”
If this book was a score in bowling, it would be a perfect game! It checks off all the boxes for my idea of a perfect romcom read. I’ve read a lot of hilarious books but this one might just be the funniest one yet! There were so many literal LOL moments that I’m glad I read this one In the privacy of my own home.
I am absolutely here for books that feature the nerdy guy getting the rebel “bad” girl, and Ryan and Danny (also known as Danica/Tinsley) are perfect together. I love how Danny helps Ryan become the best version of himself but also loves him as he is and vice versa. Ryan is so swoony with everything he does and even if he is a little insecure, it made him all the more endearing. The steamy times in this book were even better because of the way Ryan really let go and wasn’t so controlled and proper when it was just the two of them🔥
This is a standalone, but one of the best parts of this book are the friendships, and fans of the series will love seeing their favorites support Ryan and Danny, even if that support usually ends in chaos! While the book isn’t angsty, there is more than one villain causing problems and I felt a very strong dislike for them, but of course they get what’s coming and we still get the best HEA. I can’t wait for what’s next is this quirky island town!
July 24, 2022
I was soo on the fence for this next installment, I didn't think that Tara needed to write another story in the Summersweet series but boy was I wrong. Danny and Ryan's story is just another great addition to the Summersweet clan.
Spare Me has everything we love about the series but also Tara's amazing ability to make everything hilarious and witty. I love that she plays with the dynamics of gender stereotypes and gives us men who are soo anti masculine but in all the right ways. I really enjoyed reading a book where the guy was struggling with his own worth, for once it was the female giving him strength and building up his confidence to see that he mattered.
Ms. Sivec can never do no wrong in my eyes and I am curious to see if another love story is brewing on the Summersweet island, I believe we might have a hate-to-love-you-love-to-hate-you story coming our way
~Glori💜
Spare Me has everything we love about the series but also Tara's amazing ability to make everything hilarious and witty. I love that she plays with the dynamics of gender stereotypes and gives us men who are soo anti masculine but in all the right ways. I really enjoyed reading a book where the guy was struggling with his own worth, for once it was the female giving him strength and building up his confidence to see that he mattered.
Ms. Sivec can never do no wrong in my eyes and I am curious to see if another love story is brewing on the Summersweet island, I believe we might have a hate-to-love-you-love-to-hate-you story coming our way
~Glori💜
June 11, 2024
Reviewed for AudioGals.
Narrated by Kelsey Navarro & Tim Paige
I haven’t read or listened to a Tara Sivec book before. I know fellow AudioGal, Melinda, enjoys her books so I thought I’d give Spare Me a try when the blurb caught my eye.
Humour is very subjective of course. While I did laugh occasionally and overall, enjoyed the story, some of the humour was a little too much for me. I can (and do) enjoy a joke about balls from time to time but perhaps not as many as are crammed into Spare Me. It seems trite to say, but for those whose humour aligns more strongly with Ms Sivec’s writing, this book is going to be more successful. The reverse is also true. Me? I think I’m somewhere in the middle/middle-positive range.
Ryan Hutton is an amateur ten-pin-bowler and maths teacher on Summersweet Island. He is kind and nice and, frankly, a bit of a doormat. People walk on him all the time and in return he continues to be kind and generous. So, when a frenemy from college asks Ryan to let his little sister move into his (Ryan’s) house, sight-unseen, Ryan says yes. Because that’s a thing that happens.
Said sister, Danica Brewster, is an artist who has broken away from her rich, corporately-minded family. Her brother (Ryan’s frenemy) completely mischaracterises Dani to Ryan and so he thinks she’s in dire need of being talked into returning to the bosom of her family.
Dani is wild and free and spontaneous. She also isn’t afraid to call it how she sees it and over the course of the book, Ryan finds himself picking up some of her traits. The Ryan of page one would never say “choke on a dick, Chad” but he certainly does later on.
In Ryan, Dani finds a personal cheerleader and a sense of home, acceptance and belonging she has been unable to find within her own family.
Of course it doesn’t hurt that they are 100% hot for one another from the beginning.
Ryan is expected to take over his father’s mantle as the Mayor of Summersweet Island. Ryan doesn’t want to but hasn’t been able to tell his dad – he doesn’t want to disappoint. However, as time passes, it becomes an unavoidable conversation.
Ryan’s autocorrect woes are amusing even when they are also occasionally implausible and the wider cast, including an ex-football star who likes to craft add to the overall zaniness of the story.
Spare Me is a light-hearted romp and not meant to be taken all that seriously. There are some unlikely things within the story which don’t bear close examination. I admit, there were times I did examine a little too closely. (For example, I think a maths teacher who is arrested for indecent exposure would have some career issues as a result.)
The performance is good from both narrators but I preferred that of Tim Paige. Kelsey Navarro has a vocal fry (at least I think that’s what it is) which is not to my taste. I found it kind of wearing after a while. It was far less noticeable when she was speaking dialogue from a male character. That helped. Of course, this is very much a personal taste thing so other listeners will have less of an issue with it. Otherwise, Ms Navarro’s character differentiation and pacing were very good. I got a strong sense of who Dani was from her performance. So, even though I didn’t exactly like it, I can’t say it was, by any stretch, bad.
Tim Paige does “nice guy” really well and Ryan is, squarely, a nice guy. His earnestness and puppy-like qualities were obvious not just in the text but also in my ears. I could tell Mr Paige had a lot of fun leaning into these traits, but always keeping it just the right side of caricature. (The same can’t always be said of the text but that’s part of the schtick of the story.)
I can see that for some listeners Spare Me will be a complete giggle-fest. I wasn’t quite in that camp but I was nonetheless entertained and count the listen as a positive. That said, I think that Ms Sivec’s books are likely to become the kind of treat I’ll consume sparingly for maximum enjoyment.
Narrated by Kelsey Navarro & Tim Paige
I haven’t read or listened to a Tara Sivec book before. I know fellow AudioGal, Melinda, enjoys her books so I thought I’d give Spare Me a try when the blurb caught my eye.
Humour is very subjective of course. While I did laugh occasionally and overall, enjoyed the story, some of the humour was a little too much for me. I can (and do) enjoy a joke about balls from time to time but perhaps not as many as are crammed into Spare Me. It seems trite to say, but for those whose humour aligns more strongly with Ms Sivec’s writing, this book is going to be more successful. The reverse is also true. Me? I think I’m somewhere in the middle/middle-positive range.
Ryan Hutton is an amateur ten-pin-bowler and maths teacher on Summersweet Island. He is kind and nice and, frankly, a bit of a doormat. People walk on him all the time and in return he continues to be kind and generous. So, when a frenemy from college asks Ryan to let his little sister move into his (Ryan’s) house, sight-unseen, Ryan says yes. Because that’s a thing that happens.
Said sister, Danica Brewster, is an artist who has broken away from her rich, corporately-minded family. Her brother (Ryan’s frenemy) completely mischaracterises Dani to Ryan and so he thinks she’s in dire need of being talked into returning to the bosom of her family.
Dani is wild and free and spontaneous. She also isn’t afraid to call it how she sees it and over the course of the book, Ryan finds himself picking up some of her traits. The Ryan of page one would never say “choke on a dick, Chad” but he certainly does later on.
In Ryan, Dani finds a personal cheerleader and a sense of home, acceptance and belonging she has been unable to find within her own family.
Of course it doesn’t hurt that they are 100% hot for one another from the beginning.
Ryan is expected to take over his father’s mantle as the Mayor of Summersweet Island. Ryan doesn’t want to but hasn’t been able to tell his dad – he doesn’t want to disappoint. However, as time passes, it becomes an unavoidable conversation.
Ryan’s autocorrect woes are amusing even when they are also occasionally implausible and the wider cast, including an ex-football star who likes to craft add to the overall zaniness of the story.
Spare Me is a light-hearted romp and not meant to be taken all that seriously. There are some unlikely things within the story which don’t bear close examination. I admit, there were times I did examine a little too closely. (For example, I think a maths teacher who is arrested for indecent exposure would have some career issues as a result.)
The performance is good from both narrators but I preferred that of Tim Paige. Kelsey Navarro has a vocal fry (at least I think that’s what it is) which is not to my taste. I found it kind of wearing after a while. It was far less noticeable when she was speaking dialogue from a male character. That helped. Of course, this is very much a personal taste thing so other listeners will have less of an issue with it. Otherwise, Ms Navarro’s character differentiation and pacing were very good. I got a strong sense of who Dani was from her performance. So, even though I didn’t exactly like it, I can’t say it was, by any stretch, bad.
Tim Paige does “nice guy” really well and Ryan is, squarely, a nice guy. His earnestness and puppy-like qualities were obvious not just in the text but also in my ears. I could tell Mr Paige had a lot of fun leaning into these traits, but always keeping it just the right side of caricature. (The same can’t always be said of the text but that’s part of the schtick of the story.)
I can see that for some listeners Spare Me will be a complete giggle-fest. I wasn’t quite in that camp but I was nonetheless entertained and count the listen as a positive. That said, I think that Ms Sivec’s books are likely to become the kind of treat I’ll consume sparingly for maximum enjoyment.
July 25, 2022
4.5 stars
Spare Me is an entertaining addition to the Summersweet Island series and had many lol moments.
I loved being back on the island so much. The small town is definitely something special with characters that are rather out there! Im not even kidding……
This book is about Ryan and Danica. The road these two go on is fraught with sizzling tension, witty banter and comical friends. Such a fun story to lose yourself in and come out at the end with a smile on your face.
I really enjoyed it!
Spare Me is an entertaining addition to the Summersweet Island series and had many lol moments.
I loved being back on the island so much. The small town is definitely something special with characters that are rather out there! Im not even kidding……
This book is about Ryan and Danica. The road these two go on is fraught with sizzling tension, witty banter and comical friends. Such a fun story to lose yourself in and come out at the end with a smile on your face.
I really enjoyed it!
July 28, 2022
A fun read, I have fallen in love with Ryan and Danny, what an awesome couple!
I love seeing what the characters on Summersweet Island are up to, bring on the next book!
I love seeing what the characters on Summersweet Island are up to, bring on the next book!
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