What do you think?
Rate this book
Bad Boy Bakers #3
Stirred Up by a SEAL
Can a SEAL without a mission and a widowed baker help each other learn to live again?
Jonah Ferguson never wanted to be anything but a Navy SEAL. But after an injury sidelines his military career, he finds himself back home in small-town Tennessee. Opening a bakery with his best friends and daring to re-imagine his life is a whole new mission, but his biggest challenge yet is sticking to the friend zone with the woman who helped give him new purpose.
Two years after losing her husband to a traumatic brain injury, baker Rachel McCleary needs a change. With the proceeds from the sale of her business, she's exploring what a new life would look like. For the short-term, it means helping one of her former students make his fledgling business thrive. And hopefully adding some benefits to the friendship that helped bring her back to life.
All Rachel wants is temporary, and that's the one thing Jonah can give her. But when the trouble that's stalked his business from the start lands her in its crosshairs--and the hospital--he can't deny that there's nothing short-term about his feelings. Determined to protect her at all costs, he enters into a dangerous race to neutralize the threat before it torpedoes everything he holds dear.
Jonah Ferguson never wanted to be anything but a Navy SEAL. But after an injury sidelines his military career, he finds himself back home in small-town Tennessee. Opening a bakery with his best friends and daring to re-imagine his life is a whole new mission, but his biggest challenge yet is sticking to the friend zone with the woman who helped give him new purpose.
Two years after losing her husband to a traumatic brain injury, baker Rachel McCleary needs a change. With the proceeds from the sale of her business, she's exploring what a new life would look like. For the short-term, it means helping one of her former students make his fledgling business thrive. And hopefully adding some benefits to the friendship that helped bring her back to life.
All Rachel wants is temporary, and that's the one thing Jonah can give her. But when the trouble that's stalked his business from the start lands her in its crosshairs--and the hospital--he can't deny that there's nothing short-term about his feelings. Determined to protect her at all costs, he enters into a dangerous race to neutralize the threat before it torpedoes everything he holds dear.
262 pages, Paperback
First published August 5, 2022
64 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
Kait Nolan
154 books1,363 followersKait Nolan is a RITA® Award-winning Mississippi author who calls everyone sugar, honey, or darlin', and can wield a 'Bless your heart' like a Snuggie or a saber, depending on requirements. She believes in love, laughter, and that tacos are the world's most perfect food. When she's not writing, reading, working the evil day job, or wrangling family (both the two-legged and the four-), you can find her obsessively watching The Great British Bake Off.
Sign up for her newsletter! rebrand.ly/kaitsnewsletter
Sign up for her newsletter! rebrand.ly/kaitsnewsletter
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
July 31, 2022
#Military #FriendsToLovers #SmallTown #ARC
5 STARS
Book three in the Bad Boy Bakers series can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. Readers should be aware, however, that there are plot points that run across the series that may make it more enjoyable to read the series in order. It is written in third person from dual POV.
I was so excited to get Jonah’s HEA. Though I met Rachel in previous books, I felt like I finally got to know her in this one. She is strong and feisty. I love her intelligence and her perseverance and her bravery after everything she has experienced in her life. The way she is with Jonah is really special. I adored the friendship they share and they way they “see” each other. Jonah is a protective guy who tends to put everyone else’s needs above his own. Sometimes he goes too far in this, but Rachel is quick to call him out on it. They have some serious heat that is also full of emotion and connection.
The cameos by other characters and the friendship between the guys are special moments in the book. The underlying threat, danger, and mystery in the series is finally wrapped up in a very satisfying way. In addition, the bonus epilogues set up two spin-off novellas that will come this fall perfectly.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading about these men who are brothers in a way only shared experience can make despite their different backgrounds. Their heroines are strong and perfect for each of them. I am very much looking forward to the spin-off novellas and I definitely recommend this series to anyone who loves small town romance with a touch of suspense.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
5 STARS
Book three in the Bad Boy Bakers series can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. Readers should be aware, however, that there are plot points that run across the series that may make it more enjoyable to read the series in order. It is written in third person from dual POV.
I was so excited to get Jonah’s HEA. Though I met Rachel in previous books, I felt like I finally got to know her in this one. She is strong and feisty. I love her intelligence and her perseverance and her bravery after everything she has experienced in her life. The way she is with Jonah is really special. I adored the friendship they share and they way they “see” each other. Jonah is a protective guy who tends to put everyone else’s needs above his own. Sometimes he goes too far in this, but Rachel is quick to call him out on it. They have some serious heat that is also full of emotion and connection.
The cameos by other characters and the friendship between the guys are special moments in the book. The underlying threat, danger, and mystery in the series is finally wrapped up in a very satisfying way. In addition, the bonus epilogues set up two spin-off novellas that will come this fall perfectly.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading about these men who are brothers in a way only shared experience can make despite their different backgrounds. Their heroines are strong and perfect for each of them. I am very much looking forward to the spin-off novellas and I definitely recommend this series to anyone who loves small town romance with a touch of suspense.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
August 1, 2022
5 star review of Stirred Up By A Seal (Bad Boy Bakers #3) by Kait Nolan
I love this series and this has quickly become one of my favourite series of 2022. I was excited to dive in to Stirred Up By A Seal. This is former Navy Seal Jonah Ferguson’s story and after the ending of the previous book I could not wait to see what Ms. Nolan had in store for Jonah and Rachel McCleary.
I fell hard and fast for Jonah, he is a man of honor and one I would love to have in my life. He is such a swoon worthy man and I really liked and admired Rachel, she is a strong and successful woman.
Rachel isn’t looking for forever but Jonah’s feelings are more serious than he realized for the beautiful widow. Can these two heal one another and in doing do find the happily ever after that they both deserve?
Stirred Up By A Seal ticked all the boxes for me and there were a number of twists and turns that added an additional layer to the story.
I love this series and this has quickly become one of my favourite series of 2022. I was excited to dive in to Stirred Up By A Seal. This is former Navy Seal Jonah Ferguson’s story and after the ending of the previous book I could not wait to see what Ms. Nolan had in store for Jonah and Rachel McCleary.
I fell hard and fast for Jonah, he is a man of honor and one I would love to have in my life. He is such a swoon worthy man and I really liked and admired Rachel, she is a strong and successful woman.
Rachel isn’t looking for forever but Jonah’s feelings are more serious than he realized for the beautiful widow. Can these two heal one another and in doing do find the happily ever after that they both deserve?
Stirred Up By A Seal ticked all the boxes for me and there were a number of twists and turns that added an additional layer to the story.
Read
February 23, 2023Now available! https://books2read.com/badboybakers3
August 5, 2022
I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVED the Bad Boy Bakers series so much, and I wish it could go on forever. I also have to say that I've been waiting for Jonah's story from the jump, and Kait Nolan certainly didn't disappoint. Jonah is another SEAL whose military career was over early so he started the bakery with his best friends, with help from Rachel. He's an honorable man who deserves the very best in life, and he's realizing that he actually has more serious feelings for Rachel. Our heroine, Rachel, is a widow who isn't ready for anything serious but she & Jonah definitely have sparks flying, and with her helping the bakery out while one of the owners is on their honeymoon, they finally level up the friendship. However, there's something going on, and when Rachel gets caught up in the danger, Jonah finally accepts that he's going to make Rachel his when he goes in protective mode (gah is he sexy this way). This book was filled with emotion/heart, sweet moments, heat, and a kicker of suspense so yeah, it was the perfect story to me! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 26, 2022
This story is about Jonah, the third man who had to leave the military because of a physical problem. The three men learned to make bread and pastries from Rachel in an experimental program to help men that had to leave the military and give them a trade. I loved that the three men started a bakery called Bad Boys Bakery using the grody bar that Johan’s dad had left him. It was sad that Jonah and his sister had not had their dad in their lives since they were young children, and they both couldn’t stand their father. There had been all kinds of mysterious break ins and destruction of the guys property. Rachel was in town to help the guys out while one of the men went on his honeymoon. I thought it was great that Jonah and Rachel had been close through the program, but kept it at friends. Now that Rachael was in town, there were opportunities for them to get closer. Terrible things kept happening to people around the bakery and it was a mystery Jonah was determined to solve. This is a great book that I strongly encourage you to read. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
July 15, 2022
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from Booksprout for giving my two cents. I love Kait's book!! They keep you in thr edge of your seat and this book does as well. We met Jonah way back with his two buddies opened a bakery is his father's old dilapidated bar. Jonah and his buddies have had problems with break-ins and such since they started thr renos...and it keeps happening and the only thing Jonah can think of that it ties to Lonnie..his father. On top of that he has to think about Rachel who had kissed him at the wedding and propositioned him...he didn't have time to think about it bc Sam went into labour. Rachel is in Edens Ridge to help the boys with the bakery while Brax and Mia are on their honeymoon. She vows never to drink champagne again after kissing Jonah. She had had a rough few years with the death of her hubby and now wants to jump back into the dating scene...starting with Jonah. Rachel is attacked at the bakery and Jonah goes all cave-man on her being her protector. Jonah and his mom decide to go thru Lonnie's stuff at the cabin...hoping to find answers to questions they all have. What Jonah finds shocks him. There's trouble brewing, secrets unveiled, lies and deception and the overwhelming feeling of making agends. Drama galore keeps you reading until the last page. Can Jonah handle the truth and can Rachel let her heart love again?
August 27, 2022
This has been a really good series! I’ve loved the mature characters, dealing with realistic conflicts in their relationship. And I’ve really enjoyed having both male and female narrators!
One thing the usually makes me a little cranky is when an epilogue is clearly used to set up the next book. I don’t know if the author did a great job wrapping up the couple so I didn’t feel short changed, or if she just did a good job of piquing my interest, but not one but TWO new books/stories were set up in the epilogue and I can’t wait!
One thing the usually makes me a little cranky is when an epilogue is clearly used to set up the next book. I don’t know if the author did a great job wrapping up the couple so I didn’t feel short changed, or if she just did a good job of piquing my interest, but not one but TWO new books/stories were set up in the epilogue and I can’t wait!
July 25, 2022
Jonah has feelings for Rachel but is his own worst enemy. Rachel has come to have feelings for Jonah but lives far away. Her visit was to be temporary to help at the bakery as it gets its start. Their agreement is for a "friends with benefits" arrangement but then a series of failure to communicate moments and the mystery of the continued break-ins leads us to the conclusion of the mystery and a coming of the minds between Rachel and Jonah.
This is the third book of Bad Boy Bakers. They are better to read in order but each stand alone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the third book of Bad Boy Bakers. They are better to read in order but each stand alone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2022
After finishing book two and getting a glimpse of Jonah and Rachel's story, I happily jumped straight into this one.
Jonah is lush! 😍
He's a man of honor who wants to protect those he loves with his whole self.
He doesn't see a future for himself but falls hard and fast for Rachel.
After losing her husband to a tragic accident, Rachel doesn't think she'll find that kind of love again, until things start happening with the Bad Boy Baker anyway.
We get answers to what's been going on behind the love stories since the beginning too.
The story is a little steamy, but not overly spicy
Jonah is lush! 😍
He's a man of honor who wants to protect those he loves with his whole self.
He doesn't see a future for himself but falls hard and fast for Rachel.
After losing her husband to a tragic accident, Rachel doesn't think she'll find that kind of love again, until things start happening with the Bad Boy Baker anyway.
We get answers to what's been going on behind the love stories since the beginning too.
The story is a little steamy, but not overly spicy
August 4, 2022
Stirred Up by a Seal is book 3 in the Bad Boy Bakers series
This was a great addition to the series, and was my favorite of the 3.
Jonah met Rachel 2 years ago when she was teaching a class that the Bad Boy Bakers were taking. And these two forged a strong friendship which they both yearned for it to be more.
This was a great book, full of suspense, romance and healing.
This was a great addition to the series, and was my favorite of the 3.
Jonah met Rachel 2 years ago when she was teaching a class that the Bad Boy Bakers were taking. And these two forged a strong friendship which they both yearned for it to be more.
This was a great book, full of suspense, romance and healing.
August 5, 2022
Can I say how much I love Kait Nolan's writing? She makes you feel like you are a main character in the story, every time you read any of her masterpieces. She puts a lot of descriptive text into her books and I love that. You can see the bakery and the inn.
Half way through I got bored with the storyline and I kept putting it down. It was a great story but for me, not my favorite.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Half way through I got bored with the storyline and I kept putting it down. It was a great story but for me, not my favorite.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2022
I’m glad this wasn’t the end of the trilogy, I’m completely in love with this group of bakers and their special others and looking forward to the upcoming novellas
August 6, 2022
Rachel and Jonah's story is definitely my new favourite book by Kait and my favourite of the series. It was just amazing! I loved every single second of reading this book. Not only do I love their heartwarming but slow-burn romance, the suspense and twists kept me on the edge too. I couldn't put the book down. It was just a wonderful experience.
April 20, 2024
Wow. The ending on this one has left me with no words. There are lots of revelations and surprises hidden in here that I’m still trying to digest. Jonah and Rachel are adorable together, just like we all knew they were going to be, but it drove me completely nuts how long they spent at cross-purposes. I loved seeing these two finally come together, and finally solve the mystery that’s been plaguing them since the bakery’s inception. Knowing that there’s still more stories to be told about these characters has me chomping at the bit to get a hold of them.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Booksprout.
August 7, 2022
Stirred Up by a Seal by Kait Nolan, book three in her Bad Boy Bakers series, is a wonderful, heartwarming story featuring former Navy Seal Jonah Ferguson and Rachel McCleary. Jonah and his buddies, Jonah and his two buddies, all medically discharged from the military, opened a bakery is his father's old rundown bar. The three men learned to make bread and pastries from Rachel in an experimental program to help men that had to leave the military and give them a trade. Since the day they started renovations to convert the bar into Bad Boys Bakery, Jonah and his buddies have had problems with mysterious break-ins and destruction to the property. Jonah suspects that it is somehow related to something his father was involved in, before he died. Rachel is in Edens Ridge to help the boys with the bakery while Brax and Mia are on their honeymoon. This was the push Jonah and Rachel needed to acknowledge their feelings their feelings for each other and act on them. They decide on a "friends with benefits" arrangement as Rachel isn’t looking for forever. With a continuation of break-ins and terrible things happening to the people connected to the bakery; Jonah was determined to figure out who was behind this violence. What Jonah discovers after searching his father’s belongs shocks him. There's trouble brewing, secrets unveiled, lies and deception, along with the overwhelming feeling of making amends. With all of this drama going on, Jonah realizes that he cares about Rachel more than he realized and hopes that Rachel can open her heart and love again. I highly recommend Stirred Up by a Seal to other readers and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 5, 2022
4.25 Stars!!
Having read Mixed Up With A Marine and Wrapped Up With A Ranger i couldn’t wait for more of this series! I’ve been looking so forward to this third installment ever since it was announced! I picked it up as soon as i could and got right back into the Bad Boys Bakers world! I really enjoyed this third installment!
I was so glad that Jonah got his very own book!
Jonah and Rachel’s journey pulled me in right away! These two became good friends when Rachel came into Jonah and his friends lives as the baker in their program. When Rachel comes to help out Jonah at the bakery, their attraction becomes harder to ignore. Can they take a chance on their hearts? Or is everything that’s being thrown their way too much?
I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with these two characters and get their realness. Jonah and Rachel had been through things in their lives and they both showed what it means to be human. From their friendship to their chemistry, i didn’t want to turn away from these two and their story! I loved the way their story had me feeling so much and how it kept me on my toes!
I didn’t know what all to expect in this installment which i really enjoyed. Once again, My book loving heart and i were so happy to be back in the town of Eden Ridge, Tennessee! It was so awesome to jump back into this series and get to reunite with characters!
With Stirred Up By A Seal, Ms.Nolan has created such a great read with emotion and suspense! I can’t wait to dive back into the Bad Boys Bakers world with Hung Up On The Hacker! 💗
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
Having read Mixed Up With A Marine and Wrapped Up With A Ranger i couldn’t wait for more of this series! I’ve been looking so forward to this third installment ever since it was announced! I picked it up as soon as i could and got right back into the Bad Boys Bakers world! I really enjoyed this third installment!
I was so glad that Jonah got his very own book!
Jonah and Rachel’s journey pulled me in right away! These two became good friends when Rachel came into Jonah and his friends lives as the baker in their program. When Rachel comes to help out Jonah at the bakery, their attraction becomes harder to ignore. Can they take a chance on their hearts? Or is everything that’s being thrown their way too much?
I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with these two characters and get their realness. Jonah and Rachel had been through things in their lives and they both showed what it means to be human. From their friendship to their chemistry, i didn’t want to turn away from these two and their story! I loved the way their story had me feeling so much and how it kept me on my toes!
I didn’t know what all to expect in this installment which i really enjoyed. Once again, My book loving heart and i were so happy to be back in the town of Eden Ridge, Tennessee! It was so awesome to jump back into this series and get to reunite with characters!
With Stirred Up By A Seal, Ms.Nolan has created such a great read with emotion and suspense! I can’t wait to dive back into the Bad Boys Bakers world with Hung Up On The Hacker! 💗
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
July 19, 2022
In the latest addition to the series, the author once again delivers a touching and wonderful story.
Jonah Ferguson is a man that loved being a Navy SEAL but in the last mission, lost his job and suffered a brain injury. But thanks to a program to retrain and help former military men, he and his two best friends are now owners of a successful bakery even though it has been vandalized more than once .
Meanwhile, the one person that truly helped him was his teacher and now friend, Rachel McCleary. She too has had tragedy in her life. She lost her husband to a brain injury and after teaching in upper New York state, is ready for a change. One that brings her to Jonah’s town.
The attraction between Jonah and Rachel is evident but neither wants anything serious or permanent and decide a “friends with benefits” is the solution. But what happens when feelings develop? Feeling they keep from each other? What happens when Rachel is put in danger not once but twice and Jonah is determined to keep her safe?
This latest story is one filled with heartbreaks but also heartwarming moments. One that reminds us that family comes in all sorts of form. That life is to be treasured and not taken for granted and that it’s worth to take a chance in love for the first or second time.
Though this was the last of the “bad baker boys” to get his HEA, the author leaves us with a couple of possible future stories from characters we have come to know and love. Hopefully those will come sooner than later.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Jonah Ferguson is a man that loved being a Navy SEAL but in the last mission, lost his job and suffered a brain injury. But thanks to a program to retrain and help former military men, he and his two best friends are now owners of a successful bakery even though it has been vandalized more than once .
Meanwhile, the one person that truly helped him was his teacher and now friend, Rachel McCleary. She too has had tragedy in her life. She lost her husband to a brain injury and after teaching in upper New York state, is ready for a change. One that brings her to Jonah’s town.
The attraction between Jonah and Rachel is evident but neither wants anything serious or permanent and decide a “friends with benefits” is the solution. But what happens when feelings develop? Feeling they keep from each other? What happens when Rachel is put in danger not once but twice and Jonah is determined to keep her safe?
This latest story is one filled with heartbreaks but also heartwarming moments. One that reminds us that family comes in all sorts of form. That life is to be treasured and not taken for granted and that it’s worth to take a chance in love for the first or second time.
Though this was the last of the “bad baker boys” to get his HEA, the author leaves us with a couple of possible future stories from characters we have come to know and love. Hopefully those will come sooner than later.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
August 8, 2022
Stirred Up by a SEAL is the third book in the Bad Boy Bakers series. The romance stands alone, but there has been an overarching storyline that could be beneficial to read in order. Jonah and Rachel have been best friends that have helped dig each other out of darkness, so when she asks him to expand their friendship to something more, he doesn’t refuse. But they have to navigate emotions, her wanting to start her life with him, and elements of danger stalking the bakery. Can they uncover secrets and face their future?
I really enjoyed reading this book! This series has been full of danger and uncertain emotions, love triumphing over evil, and this book was no exception! I was drawn in right from the very beginning (okay, honestly from the epilogue from the previous book), and needed to know what would happen next between Rachel and Jonah! Rachel had survived her first love dying, so she was such a strong individual, and I loved that knowing that life is short, she went after and fought for what she wanted! I loved that she knew Jonah so well, too. Jonah was this ultimate protector, putting everyone else’s needs above his own, and I really liked him. He made a few silly decisions here and there, but his intentions were good. I loved them together. I loved their passion, but mostly I loved their connection. It felt so authentic and real. There are quite a few secrets revealed in this book, as well as some new dangerous elements that were unexpected. I loved this book, from beginning to end, and I seriously can’t wait for more from this author!
I really enjoyed reading this book! This series has been full of danger and uncertain emotions, love triumphing over evil, and this book was no exception! I was drawn in right from the very beginning (okay, honestly from the epilogue from the previous book), and needed to know what would happen next between Rachel and Jonah! Rachel had survived her first love dying, so she was such a strong individual, and I loved that knowing that life is short, she went after and fought for what she wanted! I loved that she knew Jonah so well, too. Jonah was this ultimate protector, putting everyone else’s needs above his own, and I really liked him. He made a few silly decisions here and there, but his intentions were good. I loved them together. I loved their passion, but mostly I loved their connection. It felt so authentic and real. There are quite a few secrets revealed in this book, as well as some new dangerous elements that were unexpected. I loved this book, from beginning to end, and I seriously can’t wait for more from this author!
August 4, 2022
First of all, finally a mystery about the shop vandalised will be solved in this book so be prepared for more suspense than romance to read!
But don't worry, Jonah and Rachel also have their chemistry and they decide to take their relationship up to the next level. And even if it can be read as a standalone, I think this series should be read in order because you would get more pictures of what happened before they get to this point.
Aside from suspense, the story is sweet and heartwarming with their families and friends. It's well written and has intriguing plot which keeps my brain running. So lucky that it's too much to cause me migraines. And of course, Rachel has her own grief and Jonah has his health issue which is the reason he didn't make a move on Rachel when they first met. But their friendship is beautiful and that is something. I'm surprised by Rachel's decisions a lot because in Jonah's perspective from 2 previous books, I think she would be more fragile than this but nope, Rachel is strong and smart and she lives her life. Jonah is the one who I want to shake some sense into him because he's an idiot at some point.
And after the problem has been solved, I'm a little bit disappointed because I think this book will be the last in the series, then I read epilogues and now I can't wait for the next 2 books to come out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But don't worry, Jonah and Rachel also have their chemistry and they decide to take their relationship up to the next level. And even if it can be read as a standalone, I think this series should be read in order because you would get more pictures of what happened before they get to this point.
Aside from suspense, the story is sweet and heartwarming with their families and friends. It's well written and has intriguing plot which keeps my brain running. So lucky that it's too much to cause me migraines. And of course, Rachel has her own grief and Jonah has his health issue which is the reason he didn't make a move on Rachel when they first met. But their friendship is beautiful and that is something. I'm surprised by Rachel's decisions a lot because in Jonah's perspective from 2 previous books, I think she would be more fragile than this but nope, Rachel is strong and smart and she lives her life. Jonah is the one who I want to shake some sense into him because he's an idiot at some point.
And after the problem has been solved, I'm a little bit disappointed because I think this book will be the last in the series, then I read epilogues and now I can't wait for the next 2 books to come out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 18, 2022
3-3.5 stars
Things I Liked:
-the friendship group (both the men and their wives)
-seeing the other two couples moving forward with their lives together (Mia and Brax becoming foster parents and Holt, Cayla and Maddie as a family)
-Rebecca (Jonah’s mom) and how supportive yet direct she is
-that Rachel knew what she wanted and set out to get it on her own (small town life, getting a job to support herself)
-how obvious it was that Jonah had feelings for Rachel (both to the readers during the first two books as well as to his friends)
Things I Didn’t Like:
-the accident with the fire (I just think this was unnecessary. Rachel already knew she loved Jonah and this really didn’t add anything to the storyline)
-I wish the “conflict” resolution talk was longer. I think it would have been beneficial to hear more about Jonah’s injuries and him explain his potential for future health issues in more detail
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-the time Jonah spent helping Rachel after she got attacked/a concussion - the author completely skipped this. I feel like it would’ve been nicer to see them give into the temptation of each other during this time instead of using the whole “friends with benefits” storyline
-flashbacks (they were obviously already in love with each other before the story began, so it would’ve been nice to see some of the past)
-some PTSD/more of the aftereffects of Jonah being a retired Seal
Things I Liked:
-the friendship group (both the men and their wives)
-seeing the other two couples moving forward with their lives together (Mia and Brax becoming foster parents and Holt, Cayla and Maddie as a family)
-Rebecca (Jonah’s mom) and how supportive yet direct she is
-that Rachel knew what she wanted and set out to get it on her own (small town life, getting a job to support herself)
-how obvious it was that Jonah had feelings for Rachel (both to the readers during the first two books as well as to his friends)
Things I Didn’t Like:
-the accident with the fire (I just think this was unnecessary. Rachel already knew she loved Jonah and this really didn’t add anything to the storyline)
-I wish the “conflict” resolution talk was longer. I think it would have been beneficial to hear more about Jonah’s injuries and him explain his potential for future health issues in more detail
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-the time Jonah spent helping Rachel after she got attacked/a concussion - the author completely skipped this. I feel like it would’ve been nicer to see them give into the temptation of each other during this time instead of using the whole “friends with benefits” storyline
-flashbacks (they were obviously already in love with each other before the story began, so it would’ve been nice to see some of the past)
-some PTSD/more of the aftereffects of Jonah being a retired Seal
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2022
The really cool thing about Kait Nolan’s books is that although each one is a perfectly crafted standalone story, there’s an even richer tapestry-effect for those of us who’ve read them all!! Not only do characters and small town communities recur in any given series - but they crossover from her other series as well!! It makes you feel like you’ve been living amongst them for years!! If you want to escape from an insane world where you don’t even know your next door neighbors names, Kait Nolan’s books will take you away in a heartbeat!! Which brings me to her final Bad Boy Baker story: Stirred Up By A SEAL.
An archvillain from the Misfit Inn Series creeps into the overarching mystery that has loomed over the trilogy. While it’s gratifying to finally see Jonah and Rachel acknowledge their feelings for each other, their strength and pluck dealing with some dramatic challenges steals the show. This book is a perfect marriage of romance and suspense. Family and Community wrap their arms around this couple as they solve the mystery of their future together along with longstanding danger. This one’s a page-turner to the end. You’ll be burning the midnight oil if you don’t get an early start. Great read!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An archvillain from the Misfit Inn Series creeps into the overarching mystery that has loomed over the trilogy. While it’s gratifying to finally see Jonah and Rachel acknowledge their feelings for each other, their strength and pluck dealing with some dramatic challenges steals the show. This book is a perfect marriage of romance and suspense. Family and Community wrap their arms around this couple as they solve the mystery of their future together along with longstanding danger. This one’s a page-turner to the end. You’ll be burning the midnight oil if you don’t get an early start. Great read!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2022
I’m disappointed that the series has ended, because this whole journey with the Bad Boy Bakers has been full of intrigue, romance and breaking gender stereotypes…and I love it! Most bakers in books are women, I think we can all agree. So to not only create a series centering around men running a bakery but making them former military was a genius move by Kait Nolan. I’m always interested when an author puts an subtle but powerful spin on their books. Jonah was the character I was waiting for, both because he is the reason the “boys” start their bakery in his home town. And, because Jonah’s injury…his TBI…is mostly “unseen” to others but still has a powerful affect on his life. Having a family member with a TBI, I understand that to others, they may look “healthy”, when they are actually dealing with problems others cannot imagine. I thank Ms. Nolan for her honest, compassionate portrayal of Jonah’s TBI, without making him a victim. I adored his connection with Rachel and was hoping since book one that she would be the match for him. They were definitely my favorite couple in the series. Gotta love those friends to lovers! The overriding suspense was played out nicely, with a surprise or two thrown in. So I’ll say goodbye, for now, to this sexy group of men…but I can’t wait to see who Kait Nolan brings to life next for us lucky readers to fall in love with.
August 6, 2022
What can I say about Jonah and Rachel other than I love them? I have, so far, loved all the couples in Kait Nolan’s Bad Boy Bakers series for different reasons but Jonah is my favorite.
He and Rachel have a long friendship where they saw each other through some pretty dark times, strictly platonic, of course. Except for all that simmering heat & chemistry just below the surface.
Starting with a kiss at a wedding, Stirred Up by a SEAL picks up with Jonah and Rachel in the aftermath of that kiss. She’s a widow who’s ready to move on with her life and he’s a former SEAL who isn’t sure he has much life left to give her which just makes him one of those hot, stubborn men that you might need to give a swift kick in the pants.
So much happens in this story and I loved it. Normally romantic suspense isn’t my favorite but Kait Nolan did a good job making sure it didn’t turn silly or ridiculous. The Bad Boy Bakers are all certified heroes who will do whatever is necessary to protect what matters to them and Jonah takes that up by about a million percent and I love him for it. But, like Rachel, sometimes I wanted to throttle him.
This is a grown up love story that burns for a while, simmers before it builds to the fireworks you know are coming. I can’t wait to see what comes of the epilogue…both of’em!
He and Rachel have a long friendship where they saw each other through some pretty dark times, strictly platonic, of course. Except for all that simmering heat & chemistry just below the surface.
Starting with a kiss at a wedding, Stirred Up by a SEAL picks up with Jonah and Rachel in the aftermath of that kiss. She’s a widow who’s ready to move on with her life and he’s a former SEAL who isn’t sure he has much life left to give her which just makes him one of those hot, stubborn men that you might need to give a swift kick in the pants.
So much happens in this story and I loved it. Normally romantic suspense isn’t my favorite but Kait Nolan did a good job making sure it didn’t turn silly or ridiculous. The Bad Boy Bakers are all certified heroes who will do whatever is necessary to protect what matters to them and Jonah takes that up by about a million percent and I love him for it. But, like Rachel, sometimes I wanted to throttle him.
This is a grown up love story that burns for a while, simmers before it builds to the fireworks you know are coming. I can’t wait to see what comes of the epilogue…both of’em!
August 3, 2022
Jonah and Rachel's story is filled with healing, love and some suspense. It hooked me from the first page!
Jonah is such a strong and caring man. After his father left his family when he was young, Jonah made it his mission to be the man of his family. He watches out for everyone he cares about. In this book we finally get the answers of who has been attacking the bakery and why.
Rachel is such a sweetheart! She's looking to move to a small town to some what start over. Her husband passed away a few years ago and she's ready to live somewhere where people won't know her as the young widow. Rachel and Jonah have been friends for a couple years so she heads to his hometown.
Jonah and Rachel decide to start a friends with benefits type of relationship, but it doesn't stay that way long. Watching these two finally admit their feelings for one another is beautiful. They help each other heal and love with everything they have. I love how protective Jonah is and how much he cares for Rachel. She helps to calm him and to feel whole.
Get ready for all the feels and action/suspense! Everything with the break ins and attacks is wrapped up perfectly!! I'm looking forward to the next books!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Jonah is such a strong and caring man. After his father left his family when he was young, Jonah made it his mission to be the man of his family. He watches out for everyone he cares about. In this book we finally get the answers of who has been attacking the bakery and why.
Rachel is such a sweetheart! She's looking to move to a small town to some what start over. Her husband passed away a few years ago and she's ready to live somewhere where people won't know her as the young widow. Rachel and Jonah have been friends for a couple years so she heads to his hometown.
Jonah and Rachel decide to start a friends with benefits type of relationship, but it doesn't stay that way long. Watching these two finally admit their feelings for one another is beautiful. They help each other heal and love with everything they have. I love how protective Jonah is and how much he cares for Rachel. She helps to calm him and to feel whole.
Get ready for all the feels and action/suspense! Everything with the break ins and attacks is wrapped up perfectly!! I'm looking forward to the next books!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
August 3, 2022
The third in the Bad Boy Bakers series bought a conclusion to a mystery that ran through the first two books. Now you may think that a romance writer shouldn't really dabble in the art of mystery, but in this case Kait does it very very well. There is, as you would expect from a Kait Nolan book, a romance brewing, this time it's with two characters who feel their past would prevent them from finding a someone to share their lives with. There is also another Kaitisum, when she checks in with characters from other stories, which if, like me, you're a Kait Nolan fan is brilliant. But back to this mystery, I totally didn't see it coming, and I like me a mystery so I normally have an inkling as to what's going to happen, but you really can't judge a book by it's cover. I can't really tell you much more about Rachel & Jonah's story for risk of spilling the beans but it is one to read, and the epilogues have been chomping at the bit for what looks like the next two books, seems like we have us a couple more military men with stories to tell. Oh by the way, you can read this one without having read the other two in series but it would be better if you have read them. Enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 9, 2022
This series just keeps getting better and better! I was wondering if Rachel would make another appearance in the "Bad Boy Bakers" series. The way Nolan wrote Rachel's character into the story was perfect! Nolan has a unique way of connecting her characters from other series as if they were the pieces of glass in a kaleidoscope. The stories shift and change from series to series; the patterns continually change their forms and colors; the two reflecting pieces always reacting to each other. In "Stirred Up by a SEAL", the two reflecting pieces are Jonah and Rachel... and boy do they make a beautiful picture together!
I loved the way these two characters were more mature in their approah to understanding each other. Each had been through a very difficult situation but discovered that they were stronger together than by themselves. I liked each of them from the start. You can't help but cheer for them to be together and for their happiness. This comes from Nolan's gift for making her characters so real - both the good guys and the bad guys.
This is the 4th story in the series. There is a common thread - a mystery - that continues in each book. There is also a love story, this time between Jonah and Rachel, a story of brotherhood from the male leads who were all in the service, and a story of friendship between all the people of Eden's Ridge, Tennessee. (It was fun to read about some of the people from the Misfit Inn and from "Made for Loving You").
This book was terrific and I am looking forward to Cash's story in book four and to Rebecca's story in book 5!
I loved the way these two characters were more mature in their approah to understanding each other. Each had been through a very difficult situation but discovered that they were stronger together than by themselves. I liked each of them from the start. You can't help but cheer for them to be together and for their happiness. This comes from Nolan's gift for making her characters so real - both the good guys and the bad guys.
This is the 4th story in the series. There is a common thread - a mystery - that continues in each book. There is also a love story, this time between Jonah and Rachel, a story of brotherhood from the male leads who were all in the service, and a story of friendship between all the people of Eden's Ridge, Tennessee. (It was fun to read about some of the people from the Misfit Inn and from "Made for Loving You").
This book was terrific and I am looking forward to Cash's story in book four and to Rebecca's story in book 5!
August 6, 2022
As an ARC reader, this is my honest opinion. What an AMAZING read!! All the men and women of this series were loyal, strong, protectors, and part of a self-made family. Jonah and Rachel, although being last in the series to get their story told, were intermittently getting the foundation of their story laid out in the telling of the other's. Both needing to heal, both in love with each other yet hesitant to move to the next level because they were afraid of the possibility of losing such an amazing friendship. This was a page turner! A budding romance amongst a mystery that needs to be solved in order to be safe and find their peace. I have no idea how Ms. Nolan manages to be consistent in her writing to produce 5 stars repeatedly!
I'm not one to hand them out just because I liked the storyline. Characters, consistency, proofreading, scenes, believability, and accuracy for time and place of the story are all factors. It's a gift to get all components for a story and truly remarkable to achieve it as she does. There's no cheating or cliffhanger, and you get the beginning of a happy ever after. Enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm not one to hand them out just because I liked the storyline. Characters, consistency, proofreading, scenes, believability, and accuracy for time and place of the story are all factors. It's a gift to get all components for a story and truly remarkable to achieve it as she does. There's no cheating or cliffhanger, and you get the beginning of a happy ever after. Enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2025
Ok, first of all I got this for free, so I'm not going to b*tch about it (just for the hell of it)...
Now, there are a few things I like to know before I add a book to my looong list of "to read", you might too so here it goes:
Have I ever read a book of this author? yup
Is it/can it be read as a standalone? sure can, but it's more fun if you read it in the proper order
Is it part of a series? yes
Does it have a cliffhanger, in case it isn't? no, the those epilogues... they are the juicy kind.. I'm kinda hitching to go read those books! Although I'm going to see if I can fill a few blanks, because I feel a few characters already had their stories in previous books, I'm going to backtrack and read this from the start (I'm sure there's a storie of Ty, Xander, Sam, the sisters of the Inn, not sure if I'll find more, but I'm comings for you my dears)
Does it have a HEA? yeah!
Now here's what's I think of this book (and happened to me):
Is it the best book I've ever read? no
Is it the worst? no, not at all
Did it make me smile? yes 🙂
Laugh? yup 😆😅
Cry? yeah .. 😢😭
Did it annoy me? a few times
If I knew what it was like first-hand, would I read it? ABSOLUTELY
Now, there are a few things I like to know before I add a book to my looong list of "to read", you might too so here it goes:
Have I ever read a book of this author? yup
Is it/can it be read as a standalone? sure can, but it's more fun if you read it in the proper order
Is it part of a series? yes
Does it have a cliffhanger, in case it isn't? no, the those epilogues... they are the juicy kind.. I'm kinda hitching to go read those books! Although I'm going to see if I can fill a few blanks, because I feel a few characters already had their stories in previous books, I'm going to backtrack and read this from the start (I'm sure there's a storie of Ty, Xander, Sam, the sisters of the Inn, not sure if I'll find more, but I'm comings for you my dears)
Does it have a HEA? yeah!
Now here's what's I think of this book (and happened to me):
Is it the best book I've ever read? no
Is it the worst? no, not at all
Did it make me smile? yes 🙂
Laugh? yup 😆😅
Cry? yeah .. 😢😭
Did it annoy me? a few times
If I knew what it was like first-hand, would I read it? ABSOLUTELY
July 28, 2022
Jonah has been attracted to Rachel ever since he trained under her and learned skills that helped him and his buddies make a life for themselves after an injury sidelined his military career. But knowing that she was a grieving widow and he was not a forever guy, he never expressed his feelings.
Two years after losing her husband to a traumatic brain injury, baker Rachel McCleary needs a change. She is exploring what a new life would look like, and she would like to do that with Jonah.
All Rachel wants is temporary, and that's the one thing Jonah can definitely give her and so they agree on a friends with benefits relationship. But when the trouble that's stalked his business from the start lands her in its crosshairs--and the hospital--he can't deny that there's nothing short-term about his feelings.
I absolutely loved this book and it is the perfect addition to the series. I really enjoyed how the story develops along with carrying the threads from the previous books. I also enjoyed the twist towards the end with regards to Jonah’s dad. Romance, mystery and suspense kept me hooked. A series that will definitely go on my TBR again list.
Two years after losing her husband to a traumatic brain injury, baker Rachel McCleary needs a change. She is exploring what a new life would look like, and she would like to do that with Jonah.
All Rachel wants is temporary, and that's the one thing Jonah can definitely give her and so they agree on a friends with benefits relationship. But when the trouble that's stalked his business from the start lands her in its crosshairs--and the hospital--he can't deny that there's nothing short-term about his feelings.
I absolutely loved this book and it is the perfect addition to the series. I really enjoyed how the story develops along with carrying the threads from the previous books. I also enjoyed the twist towards the end with regards to Jonah’s dad. Romance, mystery and suspense kept me hooked. A series that will definitely go on my TBR again list.
August 4, 2022
The Baker Boys are back! This time, it’s Jonah’s turn to work through his feelings for his former baking teacher, Rachel. Rachel has her own feelings to deal with following her husband’s heroic death. Will they ever be able to get out of their own way and find a path toward each other?
Rachel comes to town to lend a hand at the bakery while Brax and Mia are off on their honeymoon. Unexpected things happen that throw Jonah into protective mode. Can he keep Rachel safe and still keep her at arm’s length? Will they ever be able to figure out who’s behind all the criminal activity that keeps happening at the bakery, or why they’re doing it?
Another wonderful story. This is the third book in this series, and a wonderful combination of romance and mystery. I enjoyed it, and I’m looking forward to whatever follows for these delightful characters. I highly recommend this book and this series.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
Rachel comes to town to lend a hand at the bakery while Brax and Mia are off on their honeymoon. Unexpected things happen that throw Jonah into protective mode. Can he keep Rachel safe and still keep her at arm’s length? Will they ever be able to figure out who’s behind all the criminal activity that keeps happening at the bakery, or why they’re doing it?
Another wonderful story. This is the third book in this series, and a wonderful combination of romance and mystery. I enjoyed it, and I’m looking forward to whatever follows for these delightful characters. I highly recommend this book and this series.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews