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Pine Ridge #2
The Handyman's Brother
Mike
The only reason I moved to Pine Ridge was because of my fiancé. When he dumped me… I may have lashed out in anger and accidentally broken my kitchen. When the contractor I hire ghosts me, it looks like I’m screwed. Until a handsome stranger in a bar approaches me and offers his brother’s assistance in fixing it. As Rooney and I spend more time together, I can’t help but be drawn to him. Just my luck that I crush on a straight, single dad. Rooney is straight… isn’t he?
Rooney
I don’t know what it is but, since the first time I saw him, something about Mike fascinated me. And when I overhear his tale of remodeling woe, I’m compelled to offer up my brother and his handyman skills. But what happens when I no longer have an excuse to spend all of my available time with Mike? Maybe we could still be the kind of friends that spend our free time together. Huh. That sounds an awful lot like… dating. But I’ve never been attracted to a man before… right?
The only reason I moved to Pine Ridge was because of my fiancé. When he dumped me… I may have lashed out in anger and accidentally broken my kitchen. When the contractor I hire ghosts me, it looks like I’m screwed. Until a handsome stranger in a bar approaches me and offers his brother’s assistance in fixing it. As Rooney and I spend more time together, I can’t help but be drawn to him. Just my luck that I crush on a straight, single dad. Rooney is straight… isn’t he?
Rooney
I don’t know what it is but, since the first time I saw him, something about Mike fascinated me. And when I overhear his tale of remodeling woe, I’m compelled to offer up my brother and his handyman skills. But what happens when I no longer have an excuse to spend all of my available time with Mike? Maybe we could still be the kind of friends that spend our free time together. Huh. That sounds an awful lot like… dating. But I’ve never been attracted to a man before… right?
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2022
84 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Shae Michaels
11 books68 followersShae lives in Wisconsin with her family and a cat named Stanley who tolerates them. She enjoys reading, watching ice hockey, and listening to music.
Her books are often sweet, frequently steamy, and full of perfectly imperfect men who somehow manage to bumble their way to a Happily Ever After.
Her books are often sweet, frequently steamy, and full of perfectly imperfect men who somehow manage to bumble their way to a Happily Ever After.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
December 7, 2022
It was ok, I guess, nothing Earth-shattering.Probably, my favorite thing in the book was Mike’s hair lol though he was kind of a mishmash of attributes and I couldn’t get a clear picture of him : he had curly purple long hair and he had a big-ass tattoo on his upper back and shoulders (a dragon) so he should come across as fascinating and intriguing but then the author named him Mike,lol ; he was an English teacher and worked in a school but I’ve never seen anybody swear as much as he did ( the word “fuck” and its derivatives was used 551 times throughout the book mostly by him) and so on..
Example:
“Alright. Don’t fucking have much to lose at this point. I’ll give you my number, but if it turns out that you’re just fucking with me, I will fucking track you down and… think of something fucking horrible to do to you.”
Rooney was sweet but kind of bland, though I did like him all bossy in bed - surprisingly their sexy times were hot and done pretty well.
In conclusion, it was a cute simple book (the stress is on simple) but that’s about it, nothing really happens and you’ll probably forget about it the next day.
Example:
“Alright. Don’t fucking have much to lose at this point. I’ll give you my number, but if it turns out that you’re just fucking with me, I will fucking track you down and… think of something fucking horrible to do to you.”
Rooney was sweet but kind of bland, though I did like him all bossy in bed - surprisingly their sexy times were hot and done pretty well.
In conclusion, it was a cute simple book (the stress is on simple) but that’s about it, nothing really happens and you’ll probably forget about it the next day.
December 28, 2023
This was a delightful read. I would have given it 5 stars except I was slightly offended by the description of men from Tennessee. There are certainly a lot of rednecks, but few men wear cowboy boots unless they are in the country music industry.
I enjoyed the writing and the story so much that I overlooked how quickly a straight man fell for another man. I would have expected him to at least be hesitant about the sex act, but he just dove right in. I plan to go back and read all the books in this series.
I enjoyed the writing and the story so much that I overlooked how quickly a straight man fell for another man. I would have expected him to at least be hesitant about the sex act, but he just dove right in. I plan to go back and read all the books in this series.
November 9, 2022
I am just adoring these sweet romances author Shae Michaels has been writing. I admit I was totally intrigued by Finn's bestie Mike with his purple hair and hilarious antics when we met him in book 1 Finn's Fake Boyfriend. I had a feeling his mentioned fiancé wasn't going to be around much longer based on Mike's little snippets of conversation and it turns out I was spot on. That's okay though, because Mike's ex fiancé is a total douche and Rooney is anything but. A toy store owner and single father who shares amicable custody with his ex, Rooney is just about as sweet as can be. I loved him and Mike together. They were certainly hot between the sheets, and Rooney has a bit of a hidden dominant streak that totally worked for me (and *ahem* Mike of course), but in his day to day he's just a genuine good guy.
I liked how he was so honest about Mike with everyone. Even though Mike is his first male lover, Rooney never hides or makes him feel like a dirty secret. Hell, even his momma knows how the man lights up because of Mike. It was great not having to deal with any of that drama and kept the book in total low to no angst category. I also found it absolutely adorable when both Mike and Rooney would get nervous and sort of ramble/babble. Honestly cutest thing ever. River, Rooneys six AND A HALF year old daughter (can't forget that half, believe me as parent to a 7 year old daughter myself the half is important!), was also as adorable as her father and I enjoyed the cute bonding scenes she has with Mike. I mean who wouldn't love a grown man who throws dance parties!
I'm pretty sure, or that could just be wishful thinking, that Finn's twin Sawyer is going to be the MC in the next book. I also think I know who his love interest is going to be and if I am right OMG I cannot wait to see everyone's reactions. I also found myself wanting to know more about Nathan who is the 6th, and often forgotten about, child of Vita and John. I cannot imagine forgetting about any of my kids so it made me laugh and want to know more. Vita is certainly a character and it makes me wonder if there may be plans for Nathan in the future of the series.
If you like cute and low angst with a good amount of steam, then I definitely recommend The Handyman's Brother for you.
I liked how he was so honest about Mike with everyone. Even though Mike is his first male lover, Rooney never hides or makes him feel like a dirty secret. Hell, even his momma knows how the man lights up because of Mike. It was great not having to deal with any of that drama and kept the book in total low to no angst category. I also found it absolutely adorable when both Mike and Rooney would get nervous and sort of ramble/babble. Honestly cutest thing ever. River, Rooneys six AND A HALF year old daughter (can't forget that half, believe me as parent to a 7 year old daughter myself the half is important!), was also as adorable as her father and I enjoyed the cute bonding scenes she has with Mike. I mean who wouldn't love a grown man who throws dance parties!
I'm pretty sure, or that could just be wishful thinking, that Finn's twin Sawyer is going to be the MC in the next book. I also think I know who his love interest is going to be and if I am right OMG I cannot wait to see everyone's reactions. I also found myself wanting to know more about Nathan who is the 6th, and often forgotten about, child of Vita and John. I cannot imagine forgetting about any of my kids so it made me laugh and want to know more. Vita is certainly a character and it makes me wonder if there may be plans for Nathan in the future of the series.
If you like cute and low angst with a good amount of steam, then I definitely recommend The Handyman's Brother for you.
December 17, 2022
Such an astonishing amount of side characters for the length of the book. 551 f-bombs.
The cover doesn't match what I pictured for Mike at all. He was an older single dad and that looks like a teenager on the cover.
I do want to know more about this son that Rooney's friends keep forgetting about. That whole scene was completely baffling to me.
The cover doesn't match what I pictured for Mike at all. He was an older single dad and that looks like a teenager on the cover.
I do want to know more about this son that Rooney's friends keep forgetting about. That whole scene was completely baffling to me.
December 4, 2022
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Such an enjoyable second book by Shae Michaels, a part of the Pine Ridges series.
I love a slow burn, something about two guys building a connection first that really draws me in. Though Rooney and Mike had an instant connection and clicked as friends easily, their friendship came first and things built from there. Rooney’s adorable little girl certainly helped these two form a bond.
Mike’s a good guy, who’s a bit naive when it comes to love, but he’s a great teacher and a solid friend. He’s also a lot of fun.
Rooney is easygoing. He’s devoted to his daughter, and he loves his job, owning a toy store. He doesn’t rattle easily, which makes him a pretty steady friend and brother.
Together they just fit, and in bed, they are pretty fire.
There was a lightness to this book with lovely humour and no-angst. Just two great guys developing a relationship and finding love and a home together.
With a great setting, some wonderful friends and family and a lovely bi-awakening, this book brought it all.
If you are looking for a pleasant read that will make you smile, The Handyman’s Brother will do the job.
4.5 Stars
Such an enjoyable second book by Shae Michaels, a part of the Pine Ridges series.
I love a slow burn, something about two guys building a connection first that really draws me in. Though Rooney and Mike had an instant connection and clicked as friends easily, their friendship came first and things built from there. Rooney’s adorable little girl certainly helped these two form a bond.
Mike’s a good guy, who’s a bit naive when it comes to love, but he’s a great teacher and a solid friend. He’s also a lot of fun.
Rooney is easygoing. He’s devoted to his daughter, and he loves his job, owning a toy store. He doesn’t rattle easily, which makes him a pretty steady friend and brother.
Together they just fit, and in bed, they are pretty fire.
There was a lightness to this book with lovely humour and no-angst. Just two great guys developing a relationship and finding love and a home together.
With a great setting, some wonderful friends and family and a lovely bi-awakening, this book brought it all.
If you are looking for a pleasant read that will make you smile, The Handyman’s Brother will do the job.
4.5 Stars
December 7, 2022
Loved it!
When Mike dumped by his fiancé and is let down by his contractor, Rooney steps in to offer his brothers services - and his own - to finish off his kitchen. While this is the second book in the series and while you don’t have to read the first, it does introduce some of the characters to you.
The bi-awakening in this story is really well done and I loved how open Rooney was and how accepting his family was. River is just the most adorable kid and I loved her easy approach to life. Mike and Rooney are just so perfect together. I adored them! And I can wait for the next book in this series - I’m totally hooked on the residents of Pine Ridge!
When Mike dumped by his fiancé and is let down by his contractor, Rooney steps in to offer his brothers services - and his own - to finish off his kitchen. While this is the second book in the series and while you don’t have to read the first, it does introduce some of the characters to you.
The bi-awakening in this story is really well done and I loved how open Rooney was and how accepting his family was. River is just the most adorable kid and I loved her easy approach to life. Mike and Rooney are just so perfect together. I adored them! And I can wait for the next book in this series - I’m totally hooked on the residents of Pine Ridge!
December 10, 2022
Good grief - enough already!
Wow. I have a mouth like a sailor, big fan of the F-word, handy little bugger a lot of times. BUT. Oh My God. I couldn't get past the third chapter, just so distracted by about a hundred cuss words and F bombs, just distracting as hell! I couldn't get into any of the feel of getting to know the characters etc to get into the story, I was just shaking my head like "Seriously?" Mark of a poor author, having to use such an extreme to make it sound badass instead of sprinkling these in where they make sense, flavor the writing or to stress a point. Not for total saturation to where the reader is distracted constantly, especially at the start of a story. Set the stage first. Geez.
I get the rant over being broken up over the phone, the shock, the anger. I'd say it all, but then stop for a bit. Enough already. Know when to dial it back.
I really don't get all the 5 & 4 star ratings, fooled me. DNF for me, and I'm deleting book.
Wow. I have a mouth like a sailor, big fan of the F-word, handy little bugger a lot of times. BUT. Oh My God. I couldn't get past the third chapter, just so distracted by about a hundred cuss words and F bombs, just distracting as hell! I couldn't get into any of the feel of getting to know the characters etc to get into the story, I was just shaking my head like "Seriously?" Mark of a poor author, having to use such an extreme to make it sound badass instead of sprinkling these in where they make sense, flavor the writing or to stress a point. Not for total saturation to where the reader is distracted constantly, especially at the start of a story. Set the stage first. Geez.
I get the rant over being broken up over the phone, the shock, the anger. I'd say it all, but then stop for a bit. Enough already. Know when to dial it back.
I really don't get all the 5 & 4 star ratings, fooled me. DNF for me, and I'm deleting book.
May 29, 2023
This was just boring
It started of great, I liked Mike in the first story, he was manly but in this one he became feminine and couldn’t do things for himself.
What really turned me of this story when Mike put Rooney into the bathroom for fun times, even though Rooney protested as he daughter was right there. Yeah NO
It started of great, I liked Mike in the first story, he was manly but in this one he became feminine and couldn’t do things for himself.
What really turned me of this story when Mike put Rooney into the bathroom for fun times, even though Rooney protested as he daughter was right there. Yeah NO
May 20, 2024
This book was lack luster. The first few chapters were hard to read with how hard the author was trying to make Mike sound southern. Ultimately she gave up until the last few chapters at doing this. It also seems liked she couldn’t make up her mind on whether he was in his late 20s/early 30s or late 30s/early 40s. I wouldn’t recommend or read again honestly.
December 22, 2022
Mike is in Pine Ridge because he was supposed to start the rest of his life with his fiancé there. When he dumps him for a younger man that his rich mother approves of, Mike is less sad than he is furious. He takes his anger out on the kitchen cabinets in what was to be their forever home and, like dominoes, the cabinets fall off the wall. When the original handyman he hires ghosts him, our lilac-haired teacher is left with a half-demoed kitchen and the need to drink & vent to his friends.
Rooney is a newly-divorced, single dad to a 6 (AND A HALF!)-year-old daughter. He owns a toy store that is in an old barn that he painted yellow with a big smiley face on it. He enjoys meeting up with his brother, Alden, at Dewey’s Bar when Alden’s pregnant wife gets tired of looking at him and tosses him out for a few hours.
When his brother ends up having to cancel their plans because the kids are sick, Rooney sees the lilac-hued man at the same table as the one he was at last time Roo met up with his brother. This time he seems upset, gesturing wildly and talking about how his kitchen is a mess and his contractor is nowhere to be found. Something about the man’s lilac curls bouncing and his personality has Roo moving from eavesdropping into heading over to the table and offering up his brother’s handyman services. He promises Michael that he isn’t hitting on him, but that his brother really is a handyman and can help him out.
Mike agrees and, after Rooney promises Alden to help him with the remaining reno and demo, the work begins. There’s something drawing Mike and Rooney together, but Mike won’t act on it because he’d rather have Roo as a friend than lose him – especially since Alden told Mike that Rooney is straight.
What happens when the work is nearly finished and Roo is desperate not to lose this new connection with Mike & the new feelings that he’s experiencing? A trip to a club has Roo realizing that the feeling he’s been noticing is attraction to his friend. Will Mike trust that Rooney isn’t just experimenting or curious and open himself up to a new relationship? When Mike’s ex shows up at his door, will Roo stand up for his man or back off for Mike to reunite with the man he’d spent so many years with? Can Rooney’s friends and family accept the fact that he’s fallen for a man or will peer pressure have Rooney running away?
The second book in the Pine Ridge series is funny, steamy and the right amounts of angst to make this story as fun on the inside as the cover is on the outside. Mike and Roo are couple’s goals and teacher Mike’s connection with River, Rooney’s daughter, is everything that Mike, Roo and River need to become a family.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
The Handyman's Brother
Shae Michaels
Rooney is a newly-divorced, single dad to a 6 (AND A HALF!)-year-old daughter. He owns a toy store that is in an old barn that he painted yellow with a big smiley face on it. He enjoys meeting up with his brother, Alden, at Dewey’s Bar when Alden’s pregnant wife gets tired of looking at him and tosses him out for a few hours.
When his brother ends up having to cancel their plans because the kids are sick, Rooney sees the lilac-hued man at the same table as the one he was at last time Roo met up with his brother. This time he seems upset, gesturing wildly and talking about how his kitchen is a mess and his contractor is nowhere to be found. Something about the man’s lilac curls bouncing and his personality has Roo moving from eavesdropping into heading over to the table and offering up his brother’s handyman services. He promises Michael that he isn’t hitting on him, but that his brother really is a handyman and can help him out.
Mike agrees and, after Rooney promises Alden to help him with the remaining reno and demo, the work begins. There’s something drawing Mike and Rooney together, but Mike won’t act on it because he’d rather have Roo as a friend than lose him – especially since Alden told Mike that Rooney is straight.
What happens when the work is nearly finished and Roo is desperate not to lose this new connection with Mike & the new feelings that he’s experiencing? A trip to a club has Roo realizing that the feeling he’s been noticing is attraction to his friend. Will Mike trust that Rooney isn’t just experimenting or curious and open himself up to a new relationship? When Mike’s ex shows up at his door, will Roo stand up for his man or back off for Mike to reunite with the man he’d spent so many years with? Can Rooney’s friends and family accept the fact that he’s fallen for a man or will peer pressure have Rooney running away?
The second book in the Pine Ridge series is funny, steamy and the right amounts of angst to make this story as fun on the inside as the cover is on the outside. Mike and Roo are couple’s goals and teacher Mike’s connection with River, Rooney’s daughter, is everything that Mike, Roo and River need to become a family.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
The Handyman's Brother
Shae Michaels
December 5, 2022
I want to start by saying I'm so looking forward to whomever's story is next in this series. I've enjoyed the first book in this series and I've enjoyed this one as well.
Mike is having a really rough time, after moving to Wisconsin, switching jobs and buying a house, his now ex fiance calls him to break up with him. Now Mike lives in a big house in a small town all by himself and now newly single. Not only that but the handyman he originally hired to fix his kitchen just made things worse!
That's where Rooney comes in. His brother Alden is a handyman and since Roo works with him sometimes they both start helping repair Mike's kitchen. Spending all that time with one another makes feelings start to grow between Roo and Mike. What happened between them? Is Roo not as straight as Mike thinks? Will he reciprocate Mike's feelings? You have to read to find out!
This book was really well done, the characters are adorable. I feel like Shar's characters always makes me smile with their adorableness, and I really enjoyed how snarky and sarcastic Mike could be at times. Roo was just adorable and oh so sweet. I also think River was a key character in this story as well, she was just utterly adorable! All of the side characters belonged there to further along the storyline.
Overall a really good slow burn, small town romance, with silly drawing, dancing parties, cursing, and dealing with pesky sophomores.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
Mike is having a really rough time, after moving to Wisconsin, switching jobs and buying a house, his now ex fiance calls him to break up with him. Now Mike lives in a big house in a small town all by himself and now newly single. Not only that but the handyman he originally hired to fix his kitchen just made things worse!
That's where Rooney comes in. His brother Alden is a handyman and since Roo works with him sometimes they both start helping repair Mike's kitchen. Spending all that time with one another makes feelings start to grow between Roo and Mike. What happened between them? Is Roo not as straight as Mike thinks? Will he reciprocate Mike's feelings? You have to read to find out!
This book was really well done, the characters are adorable. I feel like Shar's characters always makes me smile with their adorableness, and I really enjoyed how snarky and sarcastic Mike could be at times. Roo was just adorable and oh so sweet. I also think River was a key character in this story as well, she was just utterly adorable! All of the side characters belonged there to further along the storyline.
Overall a really good slow burn, small town romance, with silly drawing, dancing parties, cursing, and dealing with pesky sophomores.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
December 7, 2022
The Handyman's Brother is the second book in the Pine Ridge series and can be read as a standalone but you’ll enjoy it better if you read Finn’s Fake Boyfriend first. Rooney and Mike are fun to read. Mike in a burst of anger tears his kitchen apart and now needs someone to redo it. His previous contractor has ghosted him. Rooney overhears him say this and volunteers his brother. Mike and Rooney work together redoing the kitchen. I loved how Mike connected with Rooney’s daughter. The story is sweet and has literally no angst. I love the secondary characters! Overall a fantastic story, fun to read. Well written with pacing that hooked me.
January 15, 2024
What’s with all the F bombs? Wow, this was overloaded with them from page one. I think I made it to page three.
I just counted: Sixteen in five pages, along with multiple ‘s**t’ and ‘godd**ned’. Gross!
And, the word ‘to’ kept being spelled and used as ‘ta’, i.e., “You’ve already moved on ta someone else.”
I read plenty of books that I leave in the first pages and I don’t mark them as DNF, I just move along. I’m no pearl clutcher, I love guy talk, I even have a ‘WTF’ book shelf. But, this writing was offensive and I want it to be noted.
* There are two reviewers here who give a count of the F words: 551 in 247 pages.
I just counted: Sixteen in five pages, along with multiple ‘s**t’ and ‘godd**ned’. Gross!
And, the word ‘to’ kept being spelled and used as ‘ta’, i.e., “You’ve already moved on ta someone else.”
I read plenty of books that I leave in the first pages and I don’t mark them as DNF, I just move along. I’m no pearl clutcher, I love guy talk, I even have a ‘WTF’ book shelf. But, this writing was offensive and I want it to be noted.
* There are two reviewers here who give a count of the F words: 551 in 247 pages.
November 19, 2022
The author provided me with an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
This is my take on The Handyman’s Brother which could be described as a drama-free bi-awakening story between a high school teacher and a single dad. I say without drama except from a secondary character, but nothing between the MCs. It really was a « go with the flow » story for both MCs, which I much enjoyed. Rooney did not questioned himself endlessly about what his attraction to Mike meant, he just explored and went with it.
The only thing that bothered me relates to how Mike expressed himself in the first few chapters. I don’t think southern accents, or any accent really, should be put in writing since it can be quite difficult to read or relate to. English not being my primary language, I prefer to imagine the accent, not reading it.
Otherwise, if you’re in search of a sweet and uncomplicated love story, then this book will deliver.
This is my take on The Handyman’s Brother which could be described as a drama-free bi-awakening story between a high school teacher and a single dad. I say without drama except from a secondary character, but nothing between the MCs. It really was a « go with the flow » story for both MCs, which I much enjoyed. Rooney did not questioned himself endlessly about what his attraction to Mike meant, he just explored and went with it.
The only thing that bothered me relates to how Mike expressed himself in the first few chapters. I don’t think southern accents, or any accent really, should be put in writing since it can be quite difficult to read or relate to. English not being my primary language, I prefer to imagine the accent, not reading it.
Otherwise, if you’re in search of a sweet and uncomplicated love story, then this book will deliver.
March 9, 2023
DNF : 9% Too much...F
I don't usually mind swearing in a story. One of the MCs uses the "F" word copiously and seemingly out of context. It's a distraction. I found it difficult to focus on what the character was saying and the plot.
I don't usually mind swearing in a story. One of the MCs uses the "F" word copiously and seemingly out of context. It's a distraction. I found it difficult to focus on what the character was saying and the plot.
Read
December 10, 2023Boring, just couldn't get into it
November 9, 2022
(ARC Review)
This book is centred around Mike and Rooney, I loved Mike's character in the previous book so was looking forward to his snarky humour. Mike was quite a contradiction to me, he has purple hair, a sharp tongue, an English teacher and then rides a Harley; which was a fun surprise. Rooney is a harder character to pin down. He is a kind hearted father, toy shop owner and often blurts things out before he thinks. The first quarter of the book is located in Mike's kitchen as they paint and re-build it. At times I found the narrative a bit too detailed about DIY when really I wanted lots more sneaky glances at each other, this would have increased the sexual chemistry. This meant it took time for me to decide if Rooney was feeling anything for Mike. This is a sweet, low burn, love story that takes a while to establish due to Rooney facing a new sexual awakening. Once the sex scenes start they are very well written, believable and sexy. I just wish they had a scene involving the Harley, like Mike often pondered, it would have been a steamy scene. It was great to catch up with Finn and Theo. Sawyer made an interesting appearance which makes me wonder if he might be getting a story.... Overall, I am enjoying the Pine Ridge series with its quirky characters.
This book is centred around Mike and Rooney, I loved Mike's character in the previous book so was looking forward to his snarky humour. Mike was quite a contradiction to me, he has purple hair, a sharp tongue, an English teacher and then rides a Harley; which was a fun surprise. Rooney is a harder character to pin down. He is a kind hearted father, toy shop owner and often blurts things out before he thinks. The first quarter of the book is located in Mike's kitchen as they paint and re-build it. At times I found the narrative a bit too detailed about DIY when really I wanted lots more sneaky glances at each other, this would have increased the sexual chemistry. This meant it took time for me to decide if Rooney was feeling anything for Mike. This is a sweet, low burn, love story that takes a while to establish due to Rooney facing a new sexual awakening. Once the sex scenes start they are very well written, believable and sexy. I just wish they had a scene involving the Harley, like Mike often pondered, it would have been a steamy scene. It was great to catch up with Finn and Theo. Sawyer made an interesting appearance which makes me wonder if he might be getting a story.... Overall, I am enjoying the Pine Ridge series with its quirky characters.
December 1, 2022
I’ve been in love with Mike since the first book and I was soooo excited to read his story! And it did not disappoint. I love Mike’s dirty mouth. He curses like a sailor and I can totally relate but he’s a total sweetheart. I felt like Rooney was his perfect fit and I was excited when I found out that Rooney was more of the dominant partner in the relationship because with Mike’s brashness I thought it was going to be him so I was happy being thrown for that loop. Rooney is just about the sweetest man there is and even though Mike is his first man he’s never ashamed of it or really confused by it. He just jumps right in head first. And the obsession with Mike’s hair is just the sweetest thing ever.
I loved these two together and the rambling of both of them. I love when MCs get nervous and you see confident men sweat and get tongue tied over each other. It makes them see more normal. I also loved catching up with the rest of the gang. I missed them.
If you’re looking for a low angst book with sweet heat this is definitely up your ally. Shae is a brilliant writer and I love her books. She hasn’t let me down and the stories she creates grabs you and doesn’t let you go until the very end!
I’m crossing my fingers for Nathan. I want to know about him!! The forgotten son. 😂
I loved these two together and the rambling of both of them. I love when MCs get nervous and you see confident men sweat and get tongue tied over each other. It makes them see more normal. I also loved catching up with the rest of the gang. I missed them.
If you’re looking for a low angst book with sweet heat this is definitely up your ally. Shae is a brilliant writer and I love her books. She hasn’t let me down and the stories she creates grabs you and doesn’t let you go until the very end!
I’m crossing my fingers for Nathan. I want to know about him!! The forgotten son. 😂
November 18, 2022
Mike and Rooney were great. I loved how cute they were together.
Mike moved to Wisconsin, with the plan that his fiancé would be moving with him. Well, that didn’t happen and Mike was left with a huge house that needed renovation in a new state. Cue Rooney overhearing his plight and offering his…brother’s assistance. Lol. I mean, he helped to, but kinda threw Alden out the de I liked that part, especially. He was drawn to Mike and wanted to help him and spend time, then kinda remembered he had to actually ASK his brother first.
Rooney was cute and flustered, but took his bi-awakening with grace and some internal questions (not about if he liked Mike, but if he would be enough since he had no experience). And River was so cute. Chattering away like a 6.5 year old would do, a mile a minute.
This book was very low angst, with the only conflict with Brandon. I’ll give this book 4.5 stars rounded up because I felt like the Brandon part could have been explored more, but it doesn’t take away from how good the book was. I can’t wait to come back to Pine Ridge for more!
I received an ARC for my honest review.
Mike moved to Wisconsin, with the plan that his fiancé would be moving with him. Well, that didn’t happen and Mike was left with a huge house that needed renovation in a new state. Cue Rooney overhearing his plight and offering his…brother’s assistance. Lol. I mean, he helped to, but kinda threw Alden out the de I liked that part, especially. He was drawn to Mike and wanted to help him and spend time, then kinda remembered he had to actually ASK his brother first.
Rooney was cute and flustered, but took his bi-awakening with grace and some internal questions (not about if he liked Mike, but if he would be enough since he had no experience). And River was so cute. Chattering away like a 6.5 year old would do, a mile a minute.
This book was very low angst, with the only conflict with Brandon. I’ll give this book 4.5 stars rounded up because I felt like the Brandon part could have been explored more, but it doesn’t take away from how good the book was. I can’t wait to come back to Pine Ridge for more!
I received an ARC for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2022
This was another great addition to the Pine Ridge series! This book follows Mike and Rooney on their journey and I loved their story. It was such a fun, easy, no angst love story.
One of my favourite things about this book was how Rooney was fairly calm and easy breezy in most aspects of life but as soon as they got to the bedroom he was Mr. Assertive and knew what he wanted to do. There was no second guessing from him. He had an attraction to Mike and he went for it!
I loved how Mike got along so well with Rooney’s daughter. I loved seeing the relationship between River and Mike grow!
The beginning was a little hard for me to get into as I found this book had a different flow than the first book in the series but after a few chapters I really started to get invested in the story.
I would say this can be read as a standalone but would absolutely recommend reading Finn’s Fake Boyfriend as I absolutely loved that book!
One of my favourite things about this book was how Rooney was fairly calm and easy breezy in most aspects of life but as soon as they got to the bedroom he was Mr. Assertive and knew what he wanted to do. There was no second guessing from him. He had an attraction to Mike and he went for it!
I loved how Mike got along so well with Rooney’s daughter. I loved seeing the relationship between River and Mike grow!
The beginning was a little hard for me to get into as I found this book had a different flow than the first book in the series but after a few chapters I really started to get invested in the story.
I would say this can be read as a standalone but would absolutely recommend reading Finn’s Fake Boyfriend as I absolutely loved that book!
December 13, 2022
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to read this sweet book by Shae Michaels for the first time. I absolutely loved the story very much! 5 stars reading from me! I look forward to reading more in the “Pine Ridge” series since this is the second story. Gives me a reason to read the first one!
The story focuses on Mike who was in need of a completely remodeled kitchen after the remodeler seemed to be flakey. He was hanging out with his friends when Rooney overheard Mike complaining about the flakey remodeler. He quickly recommended his brother who could complete the job. Keep in mind, Rooney was “straight” and has an adorable daughter. However, Mike somehow made Rooney question his sexuality because he was attracted to Mike. That’s where I’m going to stop and have you pick up the book to read to find out whether the kitchen gets remodeled or not and whether Rooney acted on his feelings for Mike.
The story focuses on Mike who was in need of a completely remodeled kitchen after the remodeler seemed to be flakey. He was hanging out with his friends when Rooney overheard Mike complaining about the flakey remodeler. He quickly recommended his brother who could complete the job. Keep in mind, Rooney was “straight” and has an adorable daughter. However, Mike somehow made Rooney question his sexuality because he was attracted to Mike. That’s where I’m going to stop and have you pick up the book to read to find out whether the kitchen gets remodeled or not and whether Rooney acted on his feelings for Mike.
December 4, 2022
3.75 stars
Pine Ridge is becoming one of my favorite small-town settings. In this installment, Mike and Rooney find each other while remodeling Mike’s kitchen. What I loved: these characters in this universe! The MCs and secondary characters are always fun and interesting, to the point that just revisiting this group of people makes me happy with every book. By low-angst, I mean nearly no-angst - and sometimes that is just the thing. Rooney and Mike communicate and have fun together and it all works. They are a good couple to spend a few hours with. What was just okay: maybe due to the no-angst aspect, but the romance seemed rushed even as the story seemed a bit long. I appreciate how easy the romances go in Pine Ridge, but in this one there was almost too much go-with-the-flow for everyone involved. Still, it’s a strong small-town romance that made me smile a lot.
Pine Ridge is becoming one of my favorite small-town settings. In this installment, Mike and Rooney find each other while remodeling Mike’s kitchen. What I loved: these characters in this universe! The MCs and secondary characters are always fun and interesting, to the point that just revisiting this group of people makes me happy with every book. By low-angst, I mean nearly no-angst - and sometimes that is just the thing. Rooney and Mike communicate and have fun together and it all works. They are a good couple to spend a few hours with. What was just okay: maybe due to the no-angst aspect, but the romance seemed rushed even as the story seemed a bit long. I appreciate how easy the romances go in Pine Ridge, but in this one there was almost too much go-with-the-flow for everyone involved. Still, it’s a strong small-town romance that made me smile a lot.
January 7, 2024
Handyman
This book is a good read. I will give it a 4/5. Mike moves to Wisconsin from Nashville to be with his fiancé. Mike finds a job and buys a house while waiting for his fiancé to join him. The fiancé decides to stay in Nashville with his new boyfriend. Rooney overhears Mike talking about the repairs needed in his house and volunteers the services of his brother. Rooney finds Mike interesting but he questions that because he is straight but comfortable. As the work is completed, Rooney is more interested in Mike and Mike feels the same. One day Rooney kisses Mike and the two men start dating. This book is light and the characters are well developed. The two men actually talk to each other. Although this is the second book in this series, I am curious to read the first book.
This book is a good read. I will give it a 4/5. Mike moves to Wisconsin from Nashville to be with his fiancé. Mike finds a job and buys a house while waiting for his fiancé to join him. The fiancé decides to stay in Nashville with his new boyfriend. Rooney overhears Mike talking about the repairs needed in his house and volunteers the services of his brother. Rooney finds Mike interesting but he questions that because he is straight but comfortable. As the work is completed, Rooney is more interested in Mike and Mike feels the same. One day Rooney kisses Mike and the two men start dating. This book is light and the characters are well developed. The two men actually talk to each other. Although this is the second book in this series, I am curious to read the first book.
December 24, 2024
MM🌈
Small town
Slow burn
Bi awakening
Mike’s long distance fiancé broke up with him over the phone.
Upset about the phone call he slammed his kitchen cabinet closed, making it fall off. He hired a contractor to come out and renovate the kitchen. Except he ghosted him after doing some demolition. Complaining about this to his friends, he was overheard by Rooney.
Rooney owns a toy store and has a 6 year old daughter. He is recently divorced. His marriage was due to a one night stand turned to accidental pregnancy. Rooney’s brother is also a contractor. So he goes up to Mike and lets him know his brother would be glad to help him out with his kitchen.
Rooney and his brother spend their evenings at Mike’s house doing repairs around the house. Rooney and Mike get to know each other and Rooney starts feeling things he has never felt before for a man.
Obvi, they get together and HEA.
Small town
Slow burn
Bi awakening
Mike’s long distance fiancé broke up with him over the phone.
Upset about the phone call he slammed his kitchen cabinet closed, making it fall off. He hired a contractor to come out and renovate the kitchen. Except he ghosted him after doing some demolition. Complaining about this to his friends, he was overheard by Rooney.
Rooney owns a toy store and has a 6 year old daughter. He is recently divorced. His marriage was due to a one night stand turned to accidental pregnancy. Rooney’s brother is also a contractor. So he goes up to Mike and lets him know his brother would be glad to help him out with his kitchen.
Rooney and his brother spend their evenings at Mike’s house doing repairs around the house. Rooney and Mike get to know each other and Rooney starts feeling things he has never felt before for a man.
Obvi, they get together and HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2022
It was nice to take a break from all the Christmas stories and just read something small town and sweet without the holiday trappings... Shae Michael's second story is just as sweet and low angst as the first one! We meet Mike and Rooney in this book and we get a slow burn, bisexual awakening, a fair amount of snark, an adorable kid and lots of good old fashioned romance....
It's lovely to see Finn and Theo from the first book make an appearance, with Finn becoming fast friends with Mike... and there are so many characters stories left to tell - can't wait to find out who finds love in the next Pine Ridge Book!
It's lovely to see Finn and Theo from the first book make an appearance, with Finn becoming fast friends with Mike... and there are so many characters stories left to tell - can't wait to find out who finds love in the next Pine Ridge Book!
December 27, 2023
Nice low angst
Nice low angst easy read woth no third act break up bs. Just two guys who have a chance meeting at a bar and one offer to help him find a new handyman, and they just click. It's just one of those perfect easy reads when want something is easy but not all sexy times.
The chemistry in and out of the bedroom felt real life and not just fluffy romance.
Divorced dad romance where the child was a major part on the stpry on weeks he had her. Where you could tell if they all didn't click this relationship couldn't evolve as it should be. Great interactions throughout all some characters, making you want to try more of this series.
Nice low angst easy read woth no third act break up bs. Just two guys who have a chance meeting at a bar and one offer to help him find a new handyman, and they just click. It's just one of those perfect easy reads when want something is easy but not all sexy times.
The chemistry in and out of the bedroom felt real life and not just fluffy romance.
Divorced dad romance where the child was a major part on the stpry on weeks he had her. Where you could tell if they all didn't click this relationship couldn't evolve as it should be. Great interactions throughout all some characters, making you want to try more of this series.
November 14, 2022
This was my second book I’m the pine ridge series and once again I absolutely loved this story. This was such a sweet, low angst, single dad romance, and while I love single dad romances I really loved how this one involved the mother of the child and Rooney and his ex were still friends. Rooney and Mike were hands down written for each other and I loved seeing their characters develop through out the book, especially Rooney when he started to realise he wanted to date Mike and might be attracted to men. All in all an amazing read and I hope to read more from this author.
December 20, 2022
THE HANDYMAN’S BROTHER by @shaemichaelswrites
This was another sweet and low angst story! Mike and Rooney were just so good for each other! Mike had a lot of colorful language and a lot of baggage from his terrible ex. Rooney just was a little clueless about who he really was and Mike helped him see that. The other characters were wonderful to see and just helped seal the deal for this awesome book! Hoping for another 2 or 12 books in this series… and going to check out more by this author!
291/300
#mmromance #mmromancebooks #mmromancenovel #onederreadsfourstars
This was another sweet and low angst story! Mike and Rooney were just so good for each other! Mike had a lot of colorful language and a lot of baggage from his terrible ex. Rooney just was a little clueless about who he really was and Mike helped him see that. The other characters were wonderful to see and just helped seal the deal for this awesome book! Hoping for another 2 or 12 books in this series… and going to check out more by this author!
291/300
#mmromance #mmromancebooks #mmromancenovel #onederreadsfourstars
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