Tucker Hudson has been off SEAL Team 3 for nearly ten years. He reluctantly attends his former Teammate's wedding on New Years Eve, vowing to keep his hands to himself and his mouth shut. Suffering nightmares from a tragic deployment, he barely left the Teams with an honorable discharge. Romance is one complication he does not need. And no one needs him either: not the Teams, not his family.
Brandy Cook knows she isn't as attractive as the skinny blondes who usually attend SEAL weddings. Although she's dieted for three months straight, she's only managed to fit into a size 16 dress, and only then with the help of a monstrous undergarment that nearly prevents her from breathing. So when the big grey-haired former SEAL with a body built like Shrek takes a passing interest in her, she figures he's been forced by a wager or some kind of trick.
But as the clock strikes midnight, the improbable happens and suppressed passions take over, ending in a steamy night neither will forget, but both will admit later was a huge mistake. When Brandy finds herself in trouble, Tucker turns out to be the only one who can keep her safe from the fury building around her world.
Oh, come on!!! It’s New Year’s Eve. The heroine throws up after drinking too much on an empty stomach. The hero gets her a sandwich. The clock strikes 12 and they full on fucking kiss without the heroine having brushed her teeth or rinsed her mouth out….Ewwwww
I actually have the series box set in ebook & audio. But I’m going to review each novella individually. These novellas follow the same couple and build off events from previous books - so you want to listen/read them in order. They’re probably best fit for those in the mood for short & simple stories.
2.5⭐️ - rounded up for narration.
This was kind of all over the place. A lot of random things packed into a novella that I guess is intended to tease the whole series which follows a single couple. Also - this is a spin-off from another series (or two?) that I’ve never read and a LOT of characters from those were mentioned. I’m wondering if some of this would have made more sense if I was already familiar with the previous books.
Tucker (39) isn’t entirely likable - fairly superficial, misogynistic, and grumpy. I guess he’s meant to finally “grow up” or something, but it didn’t really happen other than a proclamation at the end.
Brandy is younger (24) and comes off as flaky and sort of drifting in figuring out what she wants to do.
They basically have a drunken hook-up after a friends’ wedding that spins into something more.
I’m not sure I would continue if I didn’t already own the whole set. But I am interested to see how Hamilton continues with the plots teased.
This is my first time listening to JD Hart. I really enjoyed his performance. He has the grisly/growly voices perfect for the male characters and I still enjoy his female ones.
I was looking forward to this book as the male protagonist was older than most. Well he was only 39 (prematurely gray) but the model looks like in his 40s. Unfortunately his love interest is 15 years younger. It would have been nice to have her be a little more older. (Yes, I'm in my 50's but that doesn't stop the romance in one's life.)
There were some parts that seems poorly written or I just didn't understand it and had to re-read it. But with all of that being said, yes I did enjoy the book. I love having prior characters make appearance. This is a short novella and I didn't read this until the second part was out. That made it more enjoyable as I read so much, I would have forgotten what had taken place.
This is the first book in the Bone Frog Brotherhood by Sharon Hamilton.
This wasn’t exactly insta-love but it was insta-in-the-sack. I couldn’t quite connect with the characters until the scene where the grocery store owned by Brandy’s father is burglarized and he is quite gravely injured. Then the story really took off, in my opinion.
I know books like these are just finding interesting ways to hook up two unlikely people but I think this book could have been expanded at least double its length. I thought the subject matter could have handled more pages. I was left with wanting more. I think this Bone Frog series could have been done as a bind-up very successfully. As I look to see what the next book in the series is about, I see it still features these two characters. I would have liked to see other guys from Tucker’s unit have their own stories under the Bone Frog label.
Not sure if I will go on to book two but I will keep the idea at the back of my mind. I just felt like the story ended before it was complete.
Romance genre is not my usual area of interest, but I thought I’d give this a try as it wasn’t a historical romance plot. I was looking forward to older characters, fresh perspective, and characters that were well-defined. I’m disappointed in all the areas I mentioned. Barely 40 male, female is 15 years younger, underdeveloped characters and story. Book description read as though it would have more substance than it being two characters enjoying boot-knocking adventures. And a sexy story is fine, but that’s about all it was for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Short but very sweet! This story just whets your appetite for the full-length novel coming out later! It’s nice to read a story where the woman isn’t stick skinny and drop dead gorgeous. Real women come in all sizes and shapes. No matter what size or shape we are, it doesn’t define who we are as a person.
In this sweet novella, Tucker proves just that. He is a huge, well-built guy who doesn’t feel comfortable with a woman that looks as though she might break if they were to get intimate. I love how he appreciates Brandy’s collection of paperback books and bedside toys, so he can’t be all bad. Tucker also has a few all-male personal touches adorning his apartment as well, which made me smile. Brandy is a sweet, caring person living the normal lifestyle and looking out for a parent. Tucker was never on her radar for how she planned on saying good bye to 2017 and hello to 2018.
I love how part of this story has some focus on people being just human beings and everyday normal. It still incorporates the hottie factor and steamy sex we all love from these men. There is also a very sweet ending that leaves you hanging and wanting more. I loved it!
It was such a treat to find this story included with “SEALed at the Altar”. This is the start of Tucker and Brandy’s story. How they met when Brawley and Dorie got married, and how they fell in love, almost at first sight. You will love every part of this introduction to this unique couple, especially the end!
I really enjoyed this story. It is an easy, engaging read with good, relatable characters. It is well-written with solid characterizations and a smooth flow. If you purchased this separately, you are going to want to read “SEALed at the Altar” for the rest of their story. This novella can be read as a standalone, but why wouldn’t you want to read more about Tucker and Brandy!?! I highly recommend this book!
Loved both of the novellas in this book. In New Year SEAL Dream, Tucker and Brandy get off to an interesting start when they meet at the wedding of mutual friends. They seem to be made for each other since Tucker is a large guy and doesn't want some dainty little woman. Loved Brandy's reaction to Tucker's magazines and posters.
SEAL My Love starts out on a SEAL vacation in Hawaii but takes a quick turn when one of Gretchen's daughters gets kidnapped. Can't wait until Trace meets up with Gretchen's ex. Also, want to see the continuation of Gretchen and Trace's story.
I received a copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A steamy SEAL and BBW romance. 💗😚💗
Tucker is a retired Navy SEAL who happens to be a big, fit guy attending the wedding of one of his former team members. He promised himself he was going to behave and he did... until he spotted Brandy, a big beautiful woman who was in the bridal party. Their instant connection was full of heat and proves that size does not matter. 💞😍💞
Fair warning... this is part one of a two-book story but both books are available.
Tucker Hudson, an ex-SEAL, meets Brandy Cook at his former teammate's wedding. They hook up and then...well...that's it.
I am not even sure what this book is trying to tell me. I was expecting characters and issues introductions, some actions, then a resolution. This novella introduces the characters, they immediately have sex, they start dating, and that's pretty much it. I thought it would finally go somewhere after the robbery, maybe they had an adventure going after the bad guy, but the robbery issue was resolved pretty much offline without any of their involvement (except for her making statements to the cop).
Now the writing style.... The way the first couple of pages were written, I thought I landed in the middle of a series, but no, this is book #1. The dialogs are hard to follow - who says what to whom, and what are they implying? I don't understand TJ's reaction. Who grew up together in Oregon? TJ & Tucker? Tucker and Brawley?
Next, I don't know why it matters that the Hawks women are plain. Why is it made a big deal, but then there is no follow up to it? Also, why does it need to be brought up that Dorie's mother's boyfriend might not be a permanent fixture in the family?
The consistency also feels off. At the beginning, it is implied that Tucker never gets to see his ex-mates, that he's been missing being with the SEAL guys. But later on, it appears that he hangs out with them all the time.
Finally, the characters.... I can't relate to nor admire either characters. I like my heroes and heroines to have flaws. In fact, I don't want them to be perfect, but these two are too much. Both seem to be horribly immature. They just want to get drunk during the wedding and then decide to have sex with a perfect stranger. Given their physical descriptions and what they're doing, I can't even pretend that they're somehow attractive, physically or any other way.
Tucker displays no respect during the wedding ceremony. He's pointedly rude and he doesn't care. Why even bother showing up if he refuses to even attempt to behave? He's also disturbingly obsessed with porn. I have no idea why he quit the military, but he doesn't seem happy with his life choices.
Brandy is insecure and is just floating around, not even really trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. She got fired (sounded like for being an a$$ to a customer), then immediately quit the next job, couldn't keep the part time job after due to lack of commitment, and is currently moaning because she is working for her dad.
New Years SEAL Dream is the first in Sharon Hamilton's Bone Frog Brotherhood series, about former SEAL Tucker Hudson and Brandy Cook. Neither is looking for anything at the wedding they're attending, Tucker as a friend of the groom, and Brandy as one of the bridesmaids. Tucker's still wrapping his head around no longer being a SEAL and Brandy's a little tender (literally and emotionally) from having crammed herself into a near strangulatory undergarment to get her ample curves into the bridesmaid gown. He's vowed to keep to himself, and she believes she's no head-turner like some of the bombshells she's standing next to.
Sharon Hamilton's story about these two who feel out of sorts but are actually perfect for each other is a steamy, entertaining start to the series. While it can stand alone, it is better if you're able to dive into the sequel, SEALed at the Altar, not long after ;) Tucker and Brandy don't stand on ceremony, and it's enjoyable to see how down to earth they both can be. Looking forward to more of their story!
I new this was a novella. It was a quick read. It starts off with Tucker going to a teammates wedding. Tucker is older and supposed to be quite large. (To me, the cover doesn’t portray him correctly) He’s decided that his goal on this New Year’s Eve wedding is to not check out the younger ladies. He falls asleep during the ceremony, drools, and snores. Then he notices the full figured bridesmaid. (Well, her curves anyway) Brandy feels out of place with all the skinny bridesmaids. 2 of them had to help her into her bustier. She runs into Tucker getting the spiked punch. She ends up drunk and throwing up. He takes care of her. Even kisses her at midnight (she just threw up!) They end up at her place. Their chemistry is off the chart. He compliments her body the whole time which helps her feel comfortable. Their relationship grows and the novella ends with her questioning him about their future and being surprised with his answer. I can’t wait for Book 1. I know they end up happy and together but the journey will be fun to see unfold.
Tucker Hudson made himself a promise as he attends his former Teammate Brawley Hawk's wedding. He wasn't going to ogle the single women and he definitely wasn't looking for a one night stand.
Brandy Cook wasn't a svelte model like bridesmaid, she has curves lots of them. As she walked down the aisle with another one of Tucker's friends she caught his eye and all Tucker's resolutions go down the drain.
At the reception, Tucker and Brandy have a bit of a collision that splatters punch on her, but after some repairs to her makeup she dances with the groom. It's the aftermath of that dance that changes everything for both of them.
Things heat up quickly between these two and as this tale progresses we learn even more about Tucker.
There's lots of fun, some suspense and plenty of sizzle in this short page-turning read.
This is a novella to start a new SEAL series by Sharon Hamilton. Tucker, a former SEAL member from Team 3, is going to his best friends wedding on New Year’s Eve. Brandy, a bridesmaid in the wedding, had just finished a difficult year and wanted nothing more that a fresh start with the New Year. Tucker’s resolution was to get through the wedding without getting into any trouble. Instead Tucker ends up with Brandy after she nearly passes out. Their relationship progresses and it looks like Tucker may be heading to the alter soon. This is being expanded into a novel so we will get the answers to our questions. Is there a wedding? Does Tucker decide to reenlist in the Navy? I especially liked this story because we got to see the lighter side of the SEAL community.
This is an intriguing novella. This story is about Tucker and Brandy. Even though there is a 15 year difference in their age, they found love. Brandy didn't think she would ever find anyone who would accept her size. Tucker wasn't looking for love but found it anyway with Brandy. This novella is more of a romance story than an action packed thriller. I am happy that Brandy was able to find someone who appreciated her and not care about her size. I am happy these two found each other. I can't wait to see where their relationship goes from here. FANTASTIC job Sharon! I would recommend this book.
“New Years Seal Dream” - Tucker and Brandy’s meeting was comical but sweet! I so enjoyed this story because it isn’t your typical Ken & Barbie figures, within a 3-year range of each other. A great novella! It made me realize that it’s been too long since I’ve read a SEALs story! The bonus to this purchase was “Seal My Love” – Trace was a new character but I remembered Gretchen and her 3 daughters! I loved where Trace & Gretchen met; Hawaii! I didn’t see the surprise coming and the effects it had on their time to get to know each other. Loved this short and can’t wait to read the rest of their story! I ALWAYS enjoy a SEALs story by Author Sharon Hamilton!
I liked Tucker and Brandy's chemistry. The book jumped in the deep end without a care.
Tucker and Brandy were not of a mind to have a relationship, but when they met, they were combustible; and not just sexually. I am not sure of the span of time in this book, but their instalust turned into instalove.
This is a quick read and a good start to their relationship. Hopefully, we will find out about her father and his Although this is short, it can be read as a standalone. I imagine their journey will be continued in another book, otherwise this is kind of pointless.
There are two novella's in this book. First book is about how Tucker and Brandy meet. Both are just looking for a one night stand. That never works out like planned. I can't wait to read their full story SEALed at the Altar. Book two is about Trace and Gretchen. Gretchen is a single mom just trying to raise her 3 daughters. These girls will steal your heart. Trace is newly divorced and moved to a new SEAL team. He is just trying to fit in. He is invited to go on vacation with the group. He did not expect to meet Gretchen. Holy hell breaks loose and he tells Gretchen that no matter what, he won't break his word. I can't wait to read their full story SEAL My Love.
Tucker Hudson has been off the seal Team 3 for nearly 10 years. He reluctantly attends former teammate's wedding on New Year Eve vowing to keep his hands to himself and mouth shut. He suffers much to from a tragic deployment. He left the Teams with honorable discharge. Brandy Cook knows she is attractive as the skinny blondes that attend the seal weddings. She tried diet and nothings helps her. She sees a grey hair former Seal with a body like Shark that caught her attention. She thinks someone got him to keep her entertained. When Brandy finds her in trouble during the wedding Tucker sets in the help her.
I am so glad that Brandy is a fuller figured woman. It's nice to see that she is just as sexy and sassy as a thinner woman.
Brandy and Tucker meet at a SEAL friend's wedding and neither is looking for romance but that is exactly what they find. Brandy is spunky, fun, beautiful, sexy and a size 16. Tucker loves every inch of her. He is a retired Navy SEAL who wants back in and he is brick wall but very sweet and gentle with Brandy.
I liked both characters and can't wait to read more about them. I very much enjoyed what I have read so far.
His goal at the New Year's Eve wedding was to keep his hand to himself. He fails miserably. Tucker's goal was to keep his hands to himself but then he sees Brandi who is one of the bridesmaids. Her first impression of him is not so good but the he redeems himself by taking care of her when she almost passes out from not eating, too much alcohol, and dress so tight it makes it hard to breath. Will this be just a one night stand or could it be more. JD Hunt is so easy to listen to and has such a sexy voice.
New Years Seal Dream: Cover is 🔥! Loved Tucker and Brandy. I liked how the Seal team still included Tucker in everything even thow he isn't on the team presently. I loved how caring he was from when first met Brandy and the fireworks they set off. I love that Sharon Hamilton chose a full figure woman and a silver fox it was perfect. She did another wonderful job of writing. Looking forward for the continuation.
This novella is book one in the Bone Frog Brotherhood series and it features Tucker and Brandy. This is their beginning. I’m not sure how I feel about Brandy. She seems to be lacking in the intelligence department. I am happy to say that Brandy is not model thin but is a plus sized woman. She is perfect for the very large and built SEAL.
This is a short read and I’m looking forward to finding out more about these two.
Tucker hasn’t been part of his SEAL team for almost ten years, but he is still a SEAL. Because of that bond, he chooses to go to his former teammate's wedding. Brandy doesn’t see herself as desirable so when Tucker starts to pay attention to her, she doesn’t think much of it at first. Will the chemistry continue to build? This story was enjoyable to read. I definitely recommend it.
Hamilton's New Years SEAL Dream is the first in the Bone Frog Brotherhood and is just enough to whet the appetite for the full length novel to come later. It has lots of steam and SEAL antics in Hamilton style.
I recommend this book to fans of the contemporary romance genre.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complementary copy of this book.
Provided with a free ARC for an honest review. Short sweet light hearted romance. Tucker, a former Navy SEAL, and Brandy, a much younger slightly overweight woman, meet and are instantly attracted to each other. There are quite a few laughs along with the love scenes. Tucker is big and strong but rather tongue tied speaking to Brandy about his feelings. Recommended for a quick sweet read.
The ending of this book is way too abrupt. At the end I find out it is a novella and I have to buy another book to get the whole story. This is not on KU so...I won’t be purchasing the next one. I liked the plot of the story but it was very hard to follow. A lot of jumping around and a lot of names thrown around and your not sure who is who.
I read other Sharon Hamilton stories and have enjoyed everyone of them this is no different. The characters are well rounded and thought out carefully. The interaction between the characters At times is funny and other times very serious. The plot Send since this is a short story wasn't as in depth of some of her other books but I still enjoyed it
I'm reading everyone's comments. Yes, throwing up and then kissing him and ending up in bed with him is just an uncomfortable situation. BUT The SILVER FOX MODEL AND READING THE STORY - THIS MAN IS NOT YET 40 YEARS OLD. THAT IS NOT AN "OLDER MAN". GET REAL WHEN YOU CALL SOMEONE A "SILVER FOX"!!!
I liked the premise of the story, it had great potential. I get that it is a prequel, but the beginning of the book tried to introduce way too many people. The story was disjointed and we learned very little about the main characters beyond their sizes.