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Coal Haven #3
Make Me Blush
DATING IS MY LAST PRIORITY when I move my kids to a small town after a sudden divorce. It’ll be easier to be a single, working mom of four, and I won’t have to watch my ex with my former coworker. So when I get away for a night to throw myself a nice little pity party in a neighboring small town, I don’t expect to get hit on by the tastiest guy I’ve ever seen.
We talk about everything but the important stuff. I live a little and steam up his back seat windows. I’ll never see him again, so why not? But I forgot what a small world Coal Haven can be.
I DON'T LIKE MY REPUTATION of being a commitment-phobe, but I earned it. So why can’t I forget the woman who slipped out of the back seat of my pickup—and my life—in the most effortless way possible? I barely got her first name.
When my cousin coerces me into coaching an elementary school football team, I give in. But I come face-to-face with my hookup…and she’s my worst nightmare wrapped in all my wildest fantasies. A single mom with no time for me or my BS. Maybe it’s time to get more than her first name.
We talk about everything but the important stuff. I live a little and steam up his back seat windows. I’ll never see him again, so why not? But I forgot what a small world Coal Haven can be.
I DON'T LIKE MY REPUTATION of being a commitment-phobe, but I earned it. So why can’t I forget the woman who slipped out of the back seat of my pickup—and my life—in the most effortless way possible? I barely got her first name.
When my cousin coerces me into coaching an elementary school football team, I give in. But I come face-to-face with my hookup…and she’s my worst nightmare wrapped in all my wildest fantasies. A single mom with no time for me or my BS. Maybe it’s time to get more than her first name.
208 pages, Paperback
Published June 13, 2022
755 people are currently reading
2515 people want to read
About the author
Marie Johnston
100 books1,060 followersMarie Johnston is an award-winning, best-selling paranormal and contemporary romance writer. She grew up in the upper Midwest and planned to go to college for English. Didn't happen. She started college in accounting and was awful! Grabbing her inner science geek by the pocket protector, she changed to microbiology and medical technology where her only writing involved scientific articles and procedures.
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
August 3, 2022
I already knew the author wrote domesticity like no other. This time she upped her game: four kids, and a playboy inserting himself in a single mother’s life. And it worked perfectly.
You have to accept the cliché of the playboy who changes his way because of a special woman–with the added obstacle of sharing only one night with her. But the author gives the plausible explanation of Holden not used to being ditched. Emery becomes the one who got away, and Holden’s obsession. Then it’s all about Holden trying to convince Emery that being with her kids doesn’t bother him. I loved how he struggled at first due to his past, but kept trying because he thought she was worth it.
Why is Emery so hard to convince? She’s just coming out of a divorce, and her ex-husband doesn’t care much about their kids. But they’re her priority. She was an interesting character. She was a messy but dedicated mother, and I loved the way she interacted with her kids. Her chemistry with Holden was off the charts.
We see more of the Barron family. In the previous two books, we had estranged or illegitimate Barrons as main characters. This time, Holden is a real part of the family, so we have many more scenes where we see the dynamics between the various members of the Barron clan. The general feeling of secrets and resentments made it interesting. I can’t wait to learn more about this family, especially the older generation. And maybe witness their downfall.
Relationships between parents and children were the focus of the story–good, strained, inexistent, changing… I especially liked how new relationships affected older ones. They echoed each other, pushing the characters to reevaluate what they thought they knew. Nicely done.
Though it felt manichaean at times, with villains you love to hate, most of the characters were more complicated. The author did good at explaining motivations and showing the other side. No black and white here, just multiple shades of grey.
Good writing, good story and good characters, a good addition to the series. Can’t wait for more.
Quickie
- Series: Oil Barrons #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #one night stand #single mom
- Triggers: child death, cheating, psychological abuse
- Main couple: Emery Halliwell & Holden Barron
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + Holden’s relationship with Em’s kids
- – Em’s closure with her ex-husband deserved to be on the page
You have to accept the cliché of the playboy who changes his way because of a special woman–with the added obstacle of sharing only one night with her. But the author gives the plausible explanation of Holden not used to being ditched. Emery becomes the one who got away, and Holden’s obsession. Then it’s all about Holden trying to convince Emery that being with her kids doesn’t bother him. I loved how he struggled at first due to his past, but kept trying because he thought she was worth it.
Why is Emery so hard to convince? She’s just coming out of a divorce, and her ex-husband doesn’t care much about their kids. But they’re her priority. She was an interesting character. She was a messy but dedicated mother, and I loved the way she interacted with her kids. Her chemistry with Holden was off the charts.
We see more of the Barron family. In the previous two books, we had estranged or illegitimate Barrons as main characters. This time, Holden is a real part of the family, so we have many more scenes where we see the dynamics between the various members of the Barron clan. The general feeling of secrets and resentments made it interesting. I can’t wait to learn more about this family, especially the older generation. And maybe witness their downfall.
Relationships between parents and children were the focus of the story–good, strained, inexistent, changing… I especially liked how new relationships affected older ones. They echoed each other, pushing the characters to reevaluate what they thought they knew. Nicely done.
Though it felt manichaean at times, with villains you love to hate, most of the characters were more complicated. The author did good at explaining motivations and showing the other side. No black and white here, just multiple shades of grey.
Good writing, good story and good characters, a good addition to the series. Can’t wait for more.
Quickie
- Series: Oil Barrons #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #one night stand #single mom
- Triggers: child death, cheating, psychological abuse
- Main couple: Emery Halliwell & Holden Barron
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + Holden’s relationship with Em’s kids
- – Em’s closure with her ex-husband deserved to be on the page
August 3, 2022
This is the third instalment in the Oil Barron’s series and this series just gets better and better. I just love each of these Barron men and the women who love them. Emery is a new divorced Mother of four who meets Holden at a bar and has a one night stand. When Holden is persuaded to help coach a little league football team, he realizes that Emery’s 9 year old son is on the roster. Emery doesn’t want a relationship and has issues with her ex-spouse. Holden has a secret that has prevented him from dealing with children and being in a committed relationship. The attraction between these two is explosive, hot and steamy. There are more Barron issues and we catch up on the characters from the previous stories. This is an absolutely enjoyable series. I can’t wait for the next story! I received an ARC for an honest review.
August 18, 2022
One of those reads that you'll want to re-read right away just because you don't want to say goodbye
All the smexy hot as hades romance with just the right amount of angst and humor
"I haven't waited as long for food as I've waited for you."
Holden is my favorite of the Barrons Brothers to date!!
Holden is that smexy, laid back, no strings attached, best one-night ride of your life kind of guy
And he was okay with that...
Until he was on the receiving end of the no strings attached, best one-night ride of your life
Emery was rebuilding her life for herself and her four kids
A fresh start - A chance to heal the wounds
She doesn't have the time or the inclination for a relationship
Though a gal's got needs you know
It was supposed to be one night - one town over
"Maybe I could start looking over my tightly packed baggage without the hurt devastating me again"
Holden and Emery both had trust issues (Holden's secret almost broke my heart) but the way they honestly approached their feelings for each other
The way Holden let down his walls
These two are so perfect for each other- emotionally - physically
And the way they became such a cohesive family unit
#CoupleGoals
I devoured this one in one sitting
This is the third book in the series however you can read it out of order and still fall in love with Holden and Emery
I am excited for the next book - a bit of a sneak peek at the end
All the smexy hot as hades romance with just the right amount of angst and humor
"I haven't waited as long for food as I've waited for you."
Holden is my favorite of the Barrons Brothers to date!!
Holden is that smexy, laid back, no strings attached, best one-night ride of your life kind of guy
And he was okay with that...
Until he was on the receiving end of the no strings attached, best one-night ride of your life
Emery was rebuilding her life for herself and her four kids
A fresh start - A chance to heal the wounds
She doesn't have the time or the inclination for a relationship
Though a gal's got needs you know
It was supposed to be one night - one town over
"Maybe I could start looking over my tightly packed baggage without the hurt devastating me again"
Holden and Emery both had trust issues (Holden's secret almost broke my heart) but the way they honestly approached their feelings for each other
The way Holden let down his walls
These two are so perfect for each other- emotionally - physically
And the way they became such a cohesive family unit
#CoupleGoals
I devoured this one in one sitting
This is the third book in the series however you can read it out of order and still fall in love with Holden and Emery
I am excited for the next book - a bit of a sneak peek at the end
August 25, 2022
This book was so well written, that it will pull at all your emotion. I cried, I was sad, I was mad and I had a big smile on my face, my husband laughed at me. I couldn’t put it down.
Emery is a divorcee with four kids 11, 9, 7, and 1 1/2. Married young put her husband through medical school, and then he found a young pretty nurse to get cozy with and left Emery and the kids. So Emery moved to where her mom lived, so her mother could help out with her with the kids. On her first night in the small town of Coal Haven, Emery’s mom convinces her to go out and have a good time. She decided to go to Crocus Valley instead of the town she lives in Coal Haven, didn’t want to meet anyone from Coal Haven it’s a small town and people may talk. That’s when she meets Holden. They had a great time together and the chemistry was off the charts. She decided to go out to Holden’s truck, in the back of his nice truck things get hot and heavy. Afterward, it starts to get a little awkward, she has never done this before and doesn’t know what to do. All Emery really wants to do is cuddle with him, but she gets a phone call from her mother who leaves a message saying that the baby threw up. She tells Holden she has to leave. I love the all characters. I wait for a book with Holden’s cousin Stetson. Definitely recommend this book to anyone.
Emery is a divorcee with four kids 11, 9, 7, and 1 1/2. Married young put her husband through medical school, and then he found a young pretty nurse to get cozy with and left Emery and the kids. So Emery moved to where her mom lived, so her mother could help out with her with the kids. On her first night in the small town of Coal Haven, Emery’s mom convinces her to go out and have a good time. She decided to go to Crocus Valley instead of the town she lives in Coal Haven, didn’t want to meet anyone from Coal Haven it’s a small town and people may talk. That’s when she meets Holden. They had a great time together and the chemistry was off the charts. She decided to go out to Holden’s truck, in the back of his nice truck things get hot and heavy. Afterward, it starts to get a little awkward, she has never done this before and doesn’t know what to do. All Emery really wants to do is cuddle with him, but she gets a phone call from her mother who leaves a message saying that the baby threw up. She tells Holden she has to leave. I love the all characters. I wait for a book with Holden’s cousin Stetson. Definitely recommend this book to anyone.
August 20, 2022
I love these stories! They are so complex but yet straight forward at the same time. I enjoyed reading about Holden and Emery. I could easily identify with Emery and her situation. Thank goodness she came to her senses and stood up to that ex. Holden is a dream guy! Very sweet, kind and has the looks no one would be ashamed of.
There are a lot of secondary characters. They come into play often as the story moves along. Some we get to know very well..ahem Stetson and others leave is wanting to know more..ahem Colt. Either way I look forward to all family functions and friendly get togethers.
Overall this is a wonderful addition to the series. I can not wait for more!
November 19, 2024
Enjoyable read.
April 27, 2024
2.5
It just felt like there were a lot of people to dislike in this book (I wanted to punch Henry many times) and when it came to the people we're meant to like I kind of just felt..neutral about them - or even disliked them as well lol (I have no inclination to read Stetson's book). Same about the town. Those are two HUGE aspects of small-town romances, so yes, just 'eh' for me. Emery and Holden were cute sometimes though.
It just felt like there were a lot of people to dislike in this book (I wanted to punch Henry many times) and when it came to the people we're meant to like I kind of just felt..neutral about them - or even disliked them as well lol (I have no inclination to read Stetson's book). Same about the town. Those are two HUGE aspects of small-town romances, so yes, just 'eh' for me. Emery and Holden were cute sometimes though.
August 3, 2023
I am tired of books about random hook-ups that become more.
August 22, 2022
This is the 3rd book in this incredible series, and this is Holden and Emery’s journey. Emery is the single mom to 4 children, and they are moving to a small town for a fresh start after a divorce. Needing to let loose for one night Emery meets Holden and they have a steamy hook-up, never expecting to see each other again. Playboy Holden is laid back, and a no string attached guy, when he comes face to face with Emery, while he is coaching the elementary school football team. Neither is looking for a relationship, but fate has other ideas, and the chemistry between them is combustible and undeniable. This is a well written story which has emotions, family, friendships, secrets, angst, healing, trust, humor, witty banter, and love, which leads to an entertaining and compelling page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
August 19, 2022
This is part of the Oil Barons Series and can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the previous books because of the inter connecting characters. This is such a great story that will capture your heart right at the beginning, It won't take you long to get caught up in Holden and Emery's story. He's the ultimate playboy and she's a divorced mother with FOUR children. A little one time hook-up in his truck continued to take up space in his head. More members of his Barron family are highlighted. She's soured on love and he's beginning to think differently about his comittment issues. How does he convince her that her four children are not a problem> What about her ex whose not really into the kids? This is an emotional book that's all about family and relationships. Emotional and page turning. I read a free book via Booksprout and voluntarily chose to write a review.
August 22, 2022
I really enjoyed Make Me Blush! My first thought when starting this book was - how will a single mother of four have time for romance? Well, Marie Johnston makes it work! Holden snd Emery are such likable characters who deserve a happily ever after. They have to work through family issues (ex-husbands, mothers, etc) but it finally all comes together. I couldn’t put this book down! It was also great revisiting characters from the Oil Barrons series. Can’t wait for Stetson’s story!
August 21, 2022
What a great story! Emery is a strong woman to deal with everything in her life's path. Holden is more than he lets on to the public around him, only his cousin Stetson knows the whole story. Loved Holder's interactions with the kids and Sally and Tabby were a nice touch. These stories about the Barrons keep getting better each book. Looking forward to Stetson and Lyric's story next.
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 15, 2022
This series keeps getting better. I started reading Holden and Emery's story and didn't stop until I reached the end.
This was a 4.5 star read for me. Just because I wished I had been able to read about the final interaction with Em's ex. They should have just sicced Kira on him.
I liked the small town atmosphere. I thought it was great they way Emery started to rebuild her life after her divorce. I loved the way Holden conquered his fears about kids, and how he had Em's back.. I also appreciated the way Em and Holden communicated. It wasn't always smooth, but they managed to get it done. The way he eventually embraced her kids was sweet.
A small town romance about two people with a ton of baggage making an attempt at a successful relationship. It's about love, support, family, friends, and standing up for yourself and what you believe. I am looking forward to Stetson's book and seeing how he is going to get out of the revolving mess he is in again.
This was a 4.5 star read for me. Just because I wished I had been able to read about the final interaction with Em's ex. They should have just sicced Kira on him.
I liked the small town atmosphere. I thought it was great they way Emery started to rebuild her life after her divorce. I loved the way Holden conquered his fears about kids, and how he had Em's back.. I also appreciated the way Em and Holden communicated. It wasn't always smooth, but they managed to get it done. The way he eventually embraced her kids was sweet.
A small town romance about two people with a ton of baggage making an attempt at a successful relationship. It's about love, support, family, friends, and standing up for yourself and what you believe. I am looking forward to Stetson's book and seeing how he is going to get out of the revolving mess he is in again.
August 16, 2022
This was an absolutely awesome romance between a single mom with 4 kids. YES FOUR!!! And Holden who is extremely single, claims to not want kids but who is also helping to coach a bunch of kids. He meets Em and suffers from insta lust but she has so much going on she has no time for romance.
But Holden decides he wants her, and he doesn't just fall for her but also all her kids too. I loved this book so much. Honestly its prob my absolute favorite that I have read by this author ever. I loved Holden and Em, I only hated that it ended. But it's one I am sure I will re-read again.
There is a little bit of drama as Em has an ex who drives her a bit crazy. I did like that he doesn't just disappear and he does still try and see his kids.
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But Holden decides he wants her, and he doesn't just fall for her but also all her kids too. I loved this book so much. Honestly its prob my absolute favorite that I have read by this author ever. I loved Holden and Em, I only hated that it ended. But it's one I am sure I will re-read again.
There is a little bit of drama as Em has an ex who drives her a bit crazy. I did like that he doesn't just disappear and he does still try and see his kids.
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2022
I just loved "Make Me Blush" by Marie Johnston. Holden and Emery are an unlikely couple, but you just can't fight cupid's arrow when it hits for good. Their honesty with each other as they deal with their unexpected feelings, while navigating their growing relationship is refreshing. This was my first read of the author and will not be my last. Now I'm off to read the first two books in this Oil Barron's Series! Yup, I'm hooked.
I was gifted and ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
I was gifted and ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
August 9, 2022
Divorced Mom of 4 Romance!!
Emery kept the home fires burning while her husband finished his schooling to become a doctor. Henry pushed for the kids, and he traded Emery in for a newer, younger model once he became a doctor. Unfortunately Emery received half the medical school bill in the settlement. Henry was also not holding up his end of the parenting deal.
Out of character, Emery has one night where she pursues her needs. Turn out the sexy man who fulfilled those needs is her son Logan’s new football coach Holden. Then Holden offers to give her daughter Avery horse-back riding lessons. Holden also has a “past’ that normally has him avoiding children. These two have a chemistry that can’t be denied.
Small town wonderfulness. Painful past. Pretty cool kids. An excellent read which I thoroughly enjoyed.
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
Emery kept the home fires burning while her husband finished his schooling to become a doctor. Henry pushed for the kids, and he traded Emery in for a newer, younger model once he became a doctor. Unfortunately Emery received half the medical school bill in the settlement. Henry was also not holding up his end of the parenting deal.
Out of character, Emery has one night where she pursues her needs. Turn out the sexy man who fulfilled those needs is her son Logan’s new football coach Holden. Then Holden offers to give her daughter Avery horse-back riding lessons. Holden also has a “past’ that normally has him avoiding children. These two have a chemistry that can’t be denied.
Small town wonderfulness. Painful past. Pretty cool kids. An excellent read which I thoroughly enjoyed.
***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
November 13, 2024
Idk this one just hit for me. Are my tropes changing? This was a really sweet, consistent love story. Got it for free and glad I read it.
August 9, 2022
Holden is not looking for romance, or any relationship really. So he is caught unawares when he meets Em in a local hangout, and they have a one night stand. She gives him the brush off afterwards, and it’s clearly not what he is used to given his status as a local man about town. He’s handsome, filthy rich and quite the catch but has largely avoided emotional entanglements until now. Whether it’s Em’s response, or Em herself, he’s interested but reconciled to the fact he’s unlikely to ever see her again. Until he does…. He’s the assistant football coach to one of Em’s kids. … of which she has four. Em is just as shocked that her one night fling after separating from her husband, is her son’s football coach.
Make Me Blush is the story of Holden recognising he wants a family after a history of a failed relationship. Em is avoidant due to her separation and experience with her cheating husband. She’s reluctant for any involvement that might impact her children. It’s about family, community, and communication. It’s a great story and the front runner for my favourite in this series so far.
Make Me Blush is the story of Holden recognising he wants a family after a history of a failed relationship. Em is avoidant due to her separation and experience with her cheating husband. She’s reluctant for any involvement that might impact her children. It’s about family, community, and communication. It’s a great story and the front runner for my favourite in this series so far.
July 31, 2022
I love this series- the small town, the relatable heroines- right from the start it got me in. From the widowed Kennedy struggling under the well meaning but suffocating attention of her in-laws, Laney the outcast of town, returning secretly married and separated to a Barron (the town's preeminent family) and now, in Make me Blush- Em- single mother of four in her early thirties, post childbirth body insecurities and a controlling ex. And the men, the heroes, who step up and step out from under the pressure of the family patriarch, Cameron Barron, to be with the women they love.
Who wouldn't want a man like Holden Barron? Sure he has his problems- his tragic past, his reputation as a player not a stayer, his mother, half his damn family, but he more than makes up for those as he falls in love with Em. From coaching her son at football, teaching her daughter to ride, and yes, in the bedroom, amongst other places. *Fans face* Hot AS!!
Bring on Stetson and Lyric's story.
Who wouldn't want a man like Holden Barron? Sure he has his problems- his tragic past, his reputation as a player not a stayer, his mother, half his damn family, but he more than makes up for those as he falls in love with Em. From coaching her son at football, teaching her daughter to ride, and yes, in the bedroom, amongst other places. *Fans face* Hot AS!!
Bring on Stetson and Lyric's story.
August 1, 2022
Received this book as an ARC..This is my review..I lobed reading the story between Emery and Holden!! She moved away from her ex and his drama to be closer to her mom, Holden has issues from his past and is a commitment phobia. They end up hooking up one night briefly..she has to leave in a hurry afterwards, he can't get her off his mind..guess who is her son's Coach? 2 weeks later...yep Holden in the flesh...here Emery thinks she won't ever see him again!! Buckle up for an amazing book read!! Marie doesn't disappoint..between Emery ex's drama her insecurities, Holden's commitment phobia..extra chara6just add to the wonderful charm..it is a wonderful read..Holden is my NEW book boyfriend!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2022
Hot, intense and emotional all describe this unputdownable book. After reading the previous books in this series, I was curious about Holden, but wasn’t sure if I liked him. This book certainly gives me a reason to like him a great deal. It gives an insight into his character and reasons behind his no commitment, no ties attitude toward relationships. That attitude takes a direct hit after he has a very passionate encounter with Em, who surprises him by being the one who quickly leaves, citing an emergency. He is definitely not used to being the one left behind and can’t get the elusive Em out of his mind.
Em (Emery) has a lot on her plate and the passionate encounter with handsome cowboy Holden is meant to be a one and done sort of thing. The recently divorced mother of four just wanted to see if she was still desirable after her cheating husband left her feeling demoralized and unattractive. She hadn’t even been sure that she would have the courage to have a one night stand, but the chemistry she had with Holden was fierce and undeniable. She doesn’t plan to repeat it or seek Holden out, but Fate has other plans. Holden is one of her son’s football coaches so avoiding him is next to impossible, especially when it becomes clear that Holden wants to see more of her. He is surprised that Em has four children, but the real surprise is that he doesn’t want to run in the other direction. For the first time in years, he wants to get to know a woman better, to see if there is a possibility of something deeper and long lasting. His past has left him with a lot of deep-rooted pain and being around very young children can bring it all back instantly. But there is something about Em and her children that draw him, that make him long for more. Em’s painful divorce and the effect it had on her children have definitely made her wary and less accepting of men in general. Above all else, she wants to protect her children from more hurt. But there is just something about the handsome cowboy that won’t let her push him away or shut the door to future possibilities. The way forward means that have to contend with those who aren’t happy with them having a relationship, including her controlling ex and his equally controlling mother. They also have to face their painful pasts, their visions of family and what family means, and leave behind their insecurities and doubts.
The fascinating characters and the insightful storyline make this book a wonderfully engaging read. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Em (Emery) has a lot on her plate and the passionate encounter with handsome cowboy Holden is meant to be a one and done sort of thing. The recently divorced mother of four just wanted to see if she was still desirable after her cheating husband left her feeling demoralized and unattractive. She hadn’t even been sure that she would have the courage to have a one night stand, but the chemistry she had with Holden was fierce and undeniable. She doesn’t plan to repeat it or seek Holden out, but Fate has other plans. Holden is one of her son’s football coaches so avoiding him is next to impossible, especially when it becomes clear that Holden wants to see more of her. He is surprised that Em has four children, but the real surprise is that he doesn’t want to run in the other direction. For the first time in years, he wants to get to know a woman better, to see if there is a possibility of something deeper and long lasting. His past has left him with a lot of deep-rooted pain and being around very young children can bring it all back instantly. But there is something about Em and her children that draw him, that make him long for more. Em’s painful divorce and the effect it had on her children have definitely made her wary and less accepting of men in general. Above all else, she wants to protect her children from more hurt. But there is just something about the handsome cowboy that won’t let her push him away or shut the door to future possibilities. The way forward means that have to contend with those who aren’t happy with them having a relationship, including her controlling ex and his equally controlling mother. They also have to face their painful pasts, their visions of family and what family means, and leave behind their insecurities and doubts.
The fascinating characters and the insightful storyline make this book a wonderfully engaging read. I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 22, 2022
OVERALL RATING –5 stars
RECOMMENDED FOR: those that like steam, family (made and chosen) interference, relationship with kids involved; small town
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but connected to a series; there are characters from other books. I highly recommend the books be read in order for the greatest enjoyment.
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me. I have read all the prior books in this series and have enjoyed them.
BOOK:
- Contemporary romance
- 1st person with dual POV
Other characters from the series:
-- other characters from the first books make appearances with slight involvement of a supporting nature
-- main characters’ story concluded
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
· Writing Quality: 5 stars
· Story ingredient: 5 stars
· Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars
· Plot strength: 5 stars
· Steam Level: 5 stars - open door graphic scenes
Notes/Opinion (personal):
Through these books and the other series, Oil Kings, I'm getting a desire to see the scenery of North Dakota. In short, I love these books. This one may be my favorite, however. With characters who have no interest in settling down (for the first time or otherwise), kids of a wide age range to bring the humor and the feels, and the small town feels, I'm finding this troupe to be my second favorite (the first being unexpected baby). I love that the author incorporates some real life into each book - characters go to work, struggle with money, struggle with kids, struggle with small town judgments and opinions. Well done and I'm so looking forward to the next in the series!
RECOMMENDED FOR: those that like steam, family (made and chosen) interference, relationship with kids involved; small town
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but connected to a series; there are characters from other books. I highly recommend the books be read in order for the greatest enjoyment.
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me. I have read all the prior books in this series and have enjoyed them.
BOOK:
- Contemporary romance
- 1st person with dual POV
Other characters from the series:
-- other characters from the first books make appearances with slight involvement of a supporting nature
-- main characters’ story concluded
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
· Writing Quality: 5 stars
· Story ingredient: 5 stars
· Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars
· Plot strength: 5 stars
· Steam Level: 5 stars - open door graphic scenes
Notes/Opinion (personal):
Through these books and the other series, Oil Kings, I'm getting a desire to see the scenery of North Dakota. In short, I love these books. This one may be my favorite, however. With characters who have no interest in settling down (for the first time or otherwise), kids of a wide age range to bring the humor and the feels, and the small town feels, I'm finding this troupe to be my second favorite (the first being unexpected baby). I love that the author incorporates some real life into each book - characters go to work, struggle with money, struggle with kids, struggle with small town judgments and opinions. Well done and I'm so looking forward to the next in the series!
October 12, 2023
✨ARC Review✨ Rating: (4/5) Spice (3.5/5)
This is book 3 in the Oil Barron Series however, these books can be read as standalone. I would recommend reading the series though because it’s so good! Make Me Blush is my favorite so far!
This book is a second chance at love, after a failed marriage with 4 kids. We get to follow the story of Emery who is newly divorced, living in a new small town with her 4 kids. She’s navigating being a mom, a nurse, adjusting to small town living away from her previous home when she has a “one night stand” with a bad boy who says he’ll never settle down, Holden. Holden has a reputation that he doesn’t mind but as his story unfolds, and we fall head over heels for him, we find out why he came to be the bad boy he is.
We aren’t sure about Holden until Holden starts to fall for Emery. Like who doesn’t love watching a man fall for a single mom and her kids. The story is full of new twists but it leaves you wanting and needing to know more and you definitely root for them the entire story. Marie knows how to write about heartbreaking things so graciously and beautifully. She breaks down these stories like they’re a real life story and always puts us back together. And the spice is justttt right 🥵
I cannot wait for book 4!
#romancereader #romance #mariejohnston #bookstagram #booklover #oilbarronseries #spicyreads #singlemom #secondchanceromance #smut
August 16, 2022
Holden and Emery meet at a bar and have a one-night stand. They both that that was the end of it and never expected to see one another again. However, neither can stop thinking about the other. They meet again when Holden is tasked by his cousin Stetson to help with a youth football league where Holden finds out that Emery is the mom of one of his players.
She has just gotten divorced and moved to the small town that her mother has lived in for years to start over. Holden’s family are a real treat of chaos. His mom is one of the worst, but his sister is one that you just want to hold tight. The Barron kids are truly products of the environment but are working to be better people than their parents. Holden has lived his life a certain way and has become jaded with his lifestyle. He is getting to the point where he wants more. Your heart breaks for him when you find out the motivation behind his not wanting to get close to people and pursue any real relationships, but he doesn’t really have a choice when it comes to Emery because these two are destined for each other. Henry the ex, is a douche of the highest order and I love the fact that Holden is willing to step in and up when he needs to with Em’s 4 kids. In the previous books you got a version of Holden, and I am truly happy to see that what you saw was only a glimpse of the surface. He is an amazing well-rounded person who just needed to find the one person that holds him tight and won’t let go. Emery is strong, so strong but even falters when she is feeling like she has no other choices. But I love the fact that while Holden lets her step back… it doesn’t last long. This series just keeps getting better and I can’t wait for more.
POV: Dual 1st Person
PoP: 45%
Tropes: Single Mom; Small Town; Damaged Hero
Type of Series: Series of Standalones
She has just gotten divorced and moved to the small town that her mother has lived in for years to start over. Holden’s family are a real treat of chaos. His mom is one of the worst, but his sister is one that you just want to hold tight. The Barron kids are truly products of the environment but are working to be better people than their parents. Holden has lived his life a certain way and has become jaded with his lifestyle. He is getting to the point where he wants more. Your heart breaks for him when you find out the motivation behind his not wanting to get close to people and pursue any real relationships, but he doesn’t really have a choice when it comes to Emery because these two are destined for each other. Henry the ex, is a douche of the highest order and I love the fact that Holden is willing to step in and up when he needs to with Em’s 4 kids. In the previous books you got a version of Holden, and I am truly happy to see that what you saw was only a glimpse of the surface. He is an amazing well-rounded person who just needed to find the one person that holds him tight and won’t let go. Emery is strong, so strong but even falters when she is feeling like she has no other choices. But I love the fact that while Holden lets her step back… it doesn’t last long. This series just keeps getting better and I can’t wait for more.
POV: Dual 1st Person
PoP: 45%
Tropes: Single Mom; Small Town; Damaged Hero
Type of Series: Series of Standalones
August 27, 2022
My first time reading this author, but not the last; I have already downloaded the first few books in this series. I also will be looking forward to more. From the first page, I was captivated by a woman looking for a night out and finding a handsome cowboy to scratch that itch. Come to find out, she is a mother of four kids, recently divorced, and he is the commitment-phobe playboy.
Do not let this stop you from reading the book; the story is fresh, the characters relatable, and his mother is quite unique. Holden comes from interesting stock and a huge extended family to boot. There are a lot of fun secondary characters. As layers are peeled back, I believe Holden is my new book boyfriend. Please do not tell the others. Emery is doing what she can to survive with her kids, and a slimy ex, in her new town. But she begins to thrive, make friends, and stand up for herself. Could Holden be her one?
I am excited to read Stetson’s story next!
Thank you to the Booksprout and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Do not let this stop you from reading the book; the story is fresh, the characters relatable, and his mother is quite unique. Holden comes from interesting stock and a huge extended family to boot. There are a lot of fun secondary characters. As layers are peeled back, I believe Holden is my new book boyfriend. Please do not tell the others. Emery is doing what she can to survive with her kids, and a slimy ex, in her new town. But she begins to thrive, make friends, and stand up for herself. Could Holden be her one?
I am excited to read Stetson’s story next!
Thank you to the Booksprout and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
August 29, 2022
Holden and Avery have both dealt with disappointment in their lives. for Holden his dysfunctional family impacted his life and as a result he has commitment issues. When Avery catches her husband in a compromising situation divorce was imminent and with it the chaos caused by her now ex-husband. She and Holden connect in a bar and have a one-night stand where she left him with just her first name, but he sees her again when he accepts the position as assistant football coach with his cousin. Their second meeting will start them along their path. It is filled with a lot of emotional twist and turns but do these two have what it takes to make a life together? I was drawn to their story and found myself in their corner cheering for them to find their happiness together!
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 20, 2022
I love this series so much. But Emery and Holden’s story is my favorite so far. Emery is divorced and moves to Coal Haven with her four kids so that she can be close to her mom. Emery gets a rare night to herself and goes to the local bar. Where she meets Holden, and decides that she’s going to do something she never would. She hooks up with him in his truck in the parking lot. Then she gets a call from her mom about her sick kid and she abruptly leaves. Leaving Holden confused, because he’s the one that leaves, not the other way. Holden doesn’t do relationships or kids, and everyone know it. But he can’t get Emery out of his mind. Both are shocked when Emery takes her son to football practice and Holden is his coach. I love the slow relationship that they built. And that instead of Holden being the one to hold back it was Emery. Once I started reading I didn’t want to stop. I can’t wait for Stetsons story!
August 23, 2022
This is the third installment of the Oil Barrons series and my introduction to Ms. Johnston's work. I will tell you, after reading this, I have started to go back and catch up with the first two books, as this was such an amazing read! Not to mention, the Barron men are something else!
Holden has a one-night stand with Emery, divorced and mother of four, who he meets at a bar. The chemistry between these two is off the charts, but they both have issues with commitment. Emery is not looking for a relationship and is having issues with her ex and Holden has a reputation of steering clear of commitment. I enjoyed watching these two finally come together and let their relationship grow and develop.
This is a well-written book about relationships and family and full of emotion, and I guarantee it will leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling afterwards! Definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Holden has a one-night stand with Emery, divorced and mother of four, who he meets at a bar. The chemistry between these two is off the charts, but they both have issues with commitment. Emery is not looking for a relationship and is having issues with her ex and Holden has a reputation of steering clear of commitment. I enjoyed watching these two finally come together and let their relationship grow and develop.
This is a well-written book about relationships and family and full of emotion, and I guarantee it will leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling afterwards! Definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
August 19, 2022
This series just keeps getting better and better. Next up Holden and Emery. Emery fresh off a sudden divorce she and her four children move to her mom’s small town to try to start over. When she decides to take a night for herself she doesn’t realize the guy she has a one-night stand with will impact her in ways she never saw coming. Holden the perpetual bachelor has vowed to never let another woman get under his skin until he meets Emery. Each have deep scars from their pasts they have to get over to find their HEA. I loved Emery’s strength and how she was written. Every mom can see a little bit of themselves in this character and I shed a few tears. I’ve fallen in love with this series and cannot wait for the next book.
August 22, 2022
Make Me Blush is a great and entertaining book. Surprisingly complex, it has funny moments as well as heart-breaking ones, is steamy as well as romantic and has a villain without it being a suspense novel! I loved the strenght and determination in Emery and the way Holden turned from a player to a dedicated family man. Wonderful HEA that leaves me wanting more of the Barrons.
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.
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