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Whiskey Men #2

Something Real

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A Billionaire single dad.
His younger assistant, who’s looking for a good time.
Together, in an off-limits romance.


Lilian always had a no-dating rule.
For the last twelve years, she’s been the guardian of her younger sister.
She did the whole PTO, soccer mom thing.
But now that her sister’s a college graduate and married, Lilian is taking her life back... and looking for a good time.

I respected her “no dating” rule even though I’ve wanted her since the day she started working for me. Two years later and my thirst for her has only intensified.

Lily might think all she wants is a one-night-stand, but I’m determined to make her mine.
She wants some fun... I’m offering her something real.

USA Today bestselling author Hope Ford brings you a standalone second book in the Whiskey Men series. If you love reading billionaire, single father, age gap, boss/employee, and small-town romance, then you’ll love Ford and Lilian’s story.

248 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 13, 2023

1378 people are currently reading
899 people want to read

About the author

Hope Ford

289 books2,231 followers

Bestselling short romance author Hope Ford writes short, steamy, sweet romances.  She loves writing about ALPHA MEN that fall in love with CURVY WOMEN.  She has over 70 books and they are all available on Amazon.


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www.authorhopeford.com
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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
Profile Image for Not your Mother’s Romance(semi-hiatus) .
231 reviews54 followers
April 7, 2023
Well I found my new comfort read author! This was a perfect quick, steamy and just the right amount of angst read.

Ford was possessive yet respectful, dirty and pleasing, stormy but always there for Lily and he was a silver fox so, hell yeah.

Lily was fighting against her desires and love for Ford and Ollie for understandable reasons but every time the Hero got his hands and mouth on her she couldn’t deny what they had.

HEA
No cheating or ex spouse drama
No crazy controlling billionaire behavior (renting out 5 rooms for privacy reasons isn’t that nuts 🤣)
TW for death of parents, grandma and parental abandonment
Perfect for a comfort angst read
There are lots of brothers with stories of their own to come too!
Profile Image for Vintage.
2,716 reviews723 followers
March 19, 2025
This started out so promising. One of the comments from a previous book said how strong the couple was despite what the evil ex wife put them through. What a liar. She didn't put a 4" Louboutin in the book which was disappointing.

It was promising as I love a couple that endures external angst rather than a cheating Ass. It started out so well. The H is utterly besotted with the heroine who has a new lease on life now that her little sister has gotten married. I was thrilled with the couple's mutual crush.

Then the poison seeps in...slowly. Little sister that knows best as she keeps setting her older sister/mother figure on dates while she honeymoons

The h is very attracted to the H as his abnormally mature 5 year old. ABNORMALLY. Kid is in T-ball and his team outscores the other 5 to 3. I remember T-ball and you were lucky if they found the base much less score. One team had a triple play...it took 20 minutes.

Anyhoo, they go to Vegas for a business trip and sex happens. At the 65% point, it all went pear shape. The heroine turns into a complete and utter idiot. Should she follow her sister if she and the new husband move? Is she good enough for the H and his boy (who adore her). Terrible let down.

Is there a new law for romance writers where there has to be an Idiot as a major player?

Kristen Ashley's idiosyncrasies aside, she totally sells true love that is beset by external angst in Ride Steady. Very romantic as the couple is in love and they thrive despite the forces against them. Thought I had something similar here, but no.
Profile Image for Van.
804 reviews35 followers
March 13, 2023
Very emotional and beautiful beginning ( anyone who has taken care of a family can understand)
Very, very romantic premise and the love story,
A Hero to die for and a good heroine but… at the end of the book I was a little tired of her hesitation… I get it but honestly the man is perfection!!!

Safe
Very romantic
Very good sex scenes
Single dad, the mother is not in the book
Really good series with interesting secondary characters who will have their books and I can’t wait!

I have a little strange relation with this author: she can make me dream but she can really make me angry with the most absurd and unnecessary OW drama at the end of her books but when that doesn’t happen, she is one of my fav!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Chani.
247 reviews7 followers
August 18, 2024
Very frustrated

I loved Ford and Ollie
Lilian spoiled it for me though... why couldn't she just wake the hell up! I would have preferred less hot and cold and more of them as a family
Profile Image for Elisa ♡.
703 reviews1 follower
February 2, 2025
this cover makes their age gap seem so much bigger, but she's in her 30s and he's in his 40s.
1,596 reviews4 followers
March 14, 2023
This is book number 2 of the Whiskey Men series and focuses on Ford and Lilian. I can honestly say that I have been impatiently waiting for Ford's story since I found out about it (let's be honest though, I want all the brother’s stories) and it definitely did not disappoint! Lilian has been Ford’s assistant for the last 2 years and an integral part of Ford’s life. She has spent over a decade completely devoted to raising her younger sister after the death of their parents and because of that, she has had a strict no dating policy for herself. When she no longer has the dating rule in place and is ready to finally get out there and start dating, Ford is right there to try and sweep Lilian off her feet. He has wanted her the entire time she has worked for him but has held himself back to respect her want for no dating. With that obstacle out of his way, he is determined to finally make the woman he knows is his forever his once and for all. It took a little bit of time to get Lilian to jump all in because of some of her reservations, but once she figured out exactly how deeply she loves Ford and Ollie she is able to jump all in. I loved Ford and Lilian together and how they were exactly what the other person was missing in their lives. The way that Lilian loves Ford’s son like he is her own right from the start was so great to see as well! This was such a great story and a great addition to this wonderful series so far. I can’t wait to see what else this series has in store for the rest of the Blaze brothers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Chalice.
3,701 reviews111 followers
March 24, 2023
The couple: Ford and Lillian

Romance trope: office romance
Series: Whiskey Men
Length: 248 pages

Plot: Lillian works as Ford's assistant but they've each secretly been lusting after the other for a while. Lillian is afraid that Ford will tire of her though and so she doesn't want to make this permanent.

Commentary: The story was interesting but Lillian was so stubborn and I felt like she was leading Ford on a bit with the whole "I can't be with you because I need to sow my wild oats but we can be together but it needs to be secret but I'm afraid you'll hurt me." It felt wishy-washy and made me really sympathetic to Ford and annoyed with Lillian. She was hurting him as much as she was worried he would hurt her and he had given her no indication that he would act in the way she thought. He didn't mess around with women - they flirted with him but he never reciprocated.

Previous book in the series: Reluctant Husband
Profile Image for Nikki_Kate.
1,771 reviews
March 19, 2025
OMG!!! WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a little longer than I like to read, but I really enjoyed it.

Ford and Lillian met when she comes to work at Blaze Whiskey and becomes his assistant. Lillian raised her sister Carrie after her parents were killed in an auto accident. While Ford is divorced and raising his five year old son Ollie. For the last two years Ford hasn't dated anyone since he wants Lillian but she's doesn't want to date anyone. When Lillian's sister Carrie gets married, Ford helps by paying for their honeymoon. Ford is out of town so Lillian has a date with another man to her sister's wedding. When Ford comes back he finds out that Lillian's sister is setting her up on dates every night so that she's not lonely. Ford finds out that Lillian is meeting her date at Whistler's the only bar in Whiskey Run. Ford asks his brother Lucas Reluctant Husband to watch Ollie his son so that he can go and keep an eye on Lillian. While on the date Lillian finds out that she doesn't have a connection to her date but the waitress would like to get to know him. So Lillian tells her date that she would love if he got their waitress number and see what happened. When Lillian goes to leave Ford tell her he'll take her home. While driving Lillian home Ford gets an idea he asks her if she'll go to Vegas with him for some conferences. Lillian is shocked because she thought that Lucas was going but Ford tells her no he's going instead. Lillian has always wanted to travel so she tells Ford she'd love to go. Lillian has never flown before and Ford holds her hand and talks to her when they take off. When they arrive in Vegas Ford has a car waiting for them to take them to their hotel. Lillian is surprised when she find them in the same suite with two bedrooms. After they change they head down for dinner and a little gambling. They head to dinner where they are meeting one of their clients, who turns out to be very curl to his wife. When the client grabs Lillian Ford has had enough and tells the man he will no longer be doing business with Blaze whiskey. Lillian doesn't want Ford to lose the client but he tells her that his brother's will back him up. Lillian makes sure the wife is alright and finds out she has planned to leave her husband once their son graduated. Ford tells Lillian that he had feelings for her since she was hired two years ago, he's wanted to date her. Lillian is shocked but Ford doesn't want to scare her so he walks away and lets her think about that all night. The next day when Lillian wakes up Ford isn't in their room, but he left her a note and breakfast. Lillian and Ford have meetings all day, when she forgets to eat he brings her lunch. Ford asks Lillian what she wants to do after their meetings and she tells him it doesn't matter. Ford tells her that she's always taking care of everyone now it's time to take care of herself. Lillian tells Ford she would love to go swimming, so he orders her a few swimsuits. Once Lillian is changed she mets Ford out in the hot tub, while climbing in he gets a phone call from his son. When Ford is finished with his phone call he pulls Lillian into his lap, and tells her he wants her. Lillian kisses Ford, and then he tells her he needs her. Ford's phone rings and Lillian tells him he needs to answer it when she sees it's his brother Lucas. Lillian goes into the pool while Ford talks to his son. When Ford sits in the pool Lillian tells him she doesn't think this is a good idea. Ford tells her he's not going to force her into anything she doesn't want. Ford walks away telling Lillian he's going to order some food for them while Lillian has a swim. While swimming Lillian realizes she messed up, Ford brings her food for her as she's getting out of the pool then heads back inside. When Lillian is done eating she heads inside and showers then goes to Ford's room. Lillian tells Ford she wants him and she shouldn't have stopped them. Ford makes sure this is what Lillian whats before he pleasures her then they make love. Lillian sleeps in bed with Ford the next morning she wakes up and pleasure him. On the way home Lillian isn't sure what will happen once they are back home. Lillian is quiet the whole way and Ford takes it as her being nervous. Ford takes Lillian home but asks her if she wants to come to his house, but she tells him she has things she needs to do. Ford tries to text Lillian but she doesn't answer, he drops off Ollie at school then heads into work finding Lillian already there. Ford asks Lillian to come to his office, and she tells him that what they did in Vegas was a mistake. Ford tells Lillian that he wants her, but she wants to live for herself now. Ford tells Lillian she's not going to quit because if she does he'll come and find her, he needs her. When Ford gets back from lunch, which he spent in the gym working off some steam, he hands Lillian his phone and tells her he has some RSVP's he needs to reply to. Ford calls Lillian in his office when she makes a comment about maybe she should be Lucas's assistant. Ford tells Lillian she's his, she tells him her whole life she's been committed to doing the right thing. Lillian tells Ford she can't start a relationship right now she doesn't know what her sister and new husband are doing about his new job offer in Georgia. Lillian suggests that they keep their relationship a secret she doesn't want it known she's sleeping with her boss. Ford is alright with that so he pleasure her and makes love to her in his office. Ford heads to Lillian's house after he hasn't seen her much, he brings dinner over from Red's with their famous Apple Cinnamon Blaze Cake. Before they have a chance to eat Ford is pleasuring Lillian then they make love. After they eat naked, Lillian suggests they take the cake to her bedroom. After Ford leaves Lillian calls her sister but they still haven't made a decision yet on what her husband is going to do about his job offer. Since Ollie's birthday is soon, he gets to take cupcakes into school. Lillian comes over when Ollie asked her to help making cupcakes like his granny did. Lillian is more than happy to help out Ollie. When Lillian asks Ollie to take the frosting he tells her it tastes just like his granny use to make and tears stream down his cheeks. Ollie asks Lillian if she'll come to school the next day to help deliver the cupcakes. When Lillian arrives the following day at school she gets a text from her sister, that they made a decision. Lillian doesn't want to think about moving out of Whiskey Run and away from Ford and Ollie. So Lillian puts on a happy face heading into school. Lillian and Ollie hand out cupcakes and they play games with all the children. Lillian takes lots of pictures of all the kids, Ollie and Ford. When they leave the school Ford asks Lillian to come over for dinner, but she tells him she can't. Lillian tells Ford she can't because she didn't want this to be serious between them, now not only will their hearts be broken but Ollie's as well. Lillian heads home and cries the rest of the weekend. Lillian knows she needs to get up and get ready on Sunday, since she promised to go to Ollie's birthday party. When Lillian gets to her sister's house she tells her she can't move with her since she's in love with Ford and Ollie. Lillian's sister asks her if Ford didn't tell her, Carrie's husband was offered a job at Blaze Whiskey. Lillian tells her sister she just made a huge mistake and maybe messed up her life. Lillian heads to Ollie's birthday party, Ford is decorating and the other mom's come to help. When one of the other mom's offers to have a playdate Ford declines her offer. Lillian jumps in and is playing with all the other kids while Ford looks on. Lucas and Isabella announce they are going to have a baby. When Lillian has some time with Ford she thanks him for giving Carrie's husband a job so that they don't have to leave. Lillian tells Ford she doesn't want to leave, because he and Ollie are here. Ford asks her what that means, Lillian tells him that she can't walk away she doesn't want to leave him and Ollie. Lillian tells Ford she loves him and Ollie. Lillian tells Ford she wants to date him, and not hide their relationship. They sing Happy Birthday to Ollie and decide to finished their talk later. Ollie tells Lillian she wants a picture with him and her so she asks Isabella to take their picture, then Ford joins them. When the party is over Ollie asks Ford if Lillian came come over, she tells them she would love to. The next day Ford calls Lillian in to his office, he has a business meeting later in the week. Lillian asks Ford if it's alright if she watched Ollie instead of his brothers. Ford walks around is desks and pulls something out of his drawer. Ford goes in front of Lillian and goes down on one knee, he asks her to marry him and she tells him yes. Lillian tells him she loves him and Ollie and will never walk away from them. Ford tells Lillian that if she ever tried he would come after her. While having a meeting with his brother's Ford announces that he asked Lillian to marry him and she said yes. They all find out their brother Huddy is coming home.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Carolyn Norman.
780 reviews9 followers
April 30, 2023
This is the second book in the Whiskey Men series. The main characters Ford and Lily were introduced in the first book because Ford is the brother Lucas.

Lily is Ford’s Executive Assistant and right hand person already so involved in his life not realizing that Ford has had feelings for her since he hired her.

The book is about their journey to each other which is complicated by Ford having a 6 yr old son.

This is a very quick read. It’s a little spicier than the first book.

I read this on my Kindle app.
Profile Image for Hijinx Abound .
4,945 reviews44 followers
February 7, 2024
Boss/employee but not in a predatory way. Single dad. Enjoyed that the business partners (brothers) talk about potential issues with him wanting to date her.
Profile Image for Djg.
2,051 reviews31 followers
October 7, 2023
The h started so good but she is a complete dud. He can do better and he deserves better.
She totally pissed me off, he told her he had wanted her for years. He told her he wanted to date her. She completely understood. Then she after they slept together she turned into every bad heroine you've ever read.
She starts pushing him away, "I told you I didn't want a relationship" um no sister, actually your sister said she wanted you to start dating. You yourself never said you wanted to sow your wild oats until you pulled it out of your butt. "I'm going to move if my sister moves because I'm a martyr"
WAH-WAH-Wah, oh God shut up already you have ruined the book for me. 2 stars only because he was wonderful.
I like this author, don't get me wrong but she is hit and miss for me.
Profile Image for Char (1RadReader59).
3,219 reviews19 followers
August 3, 2023
Ford Blaze is the oldest of, the Blaze Boys. He’s also the only one who has been married, and divorced, and has a son soon to be six. His son, Ollie is a little boy who lives life, at top speed. But, what would you expect, with all uncles? Then, a great Granny who just passed recently, and a mother who divorced his father when he was three, and she’s never bothered to seek him out, again.

Ford had been crushing on Lily for the last two years but he had overheard her talking saying she didn't date. Plus, she was always working two jobs. She had been a mother to her little sister when their parents passed away. But, she had always planned for future good jobs because there were always two. Carrie, her sister needed therapy at first, then college, debt free no less, then a wedding just this past weekend. Now, it was her time.

Ford happens to have one of the best assistants around. When Granny was sick, Ford depended on, Lilian to help with, Ollie quite a bit. Because when something would come up and he needed someone to pick him up, Lily would do anything for Ollie and Ford. From day one she thought he was the sexiest man she ever saw. What she didn't know was that Ford felt the exact same way.

Ford needed some help planning, Ollie’s sixth birthday party. So, he asked Lily for help. Ollie needed help since, Granny was no longer with them, to make his birthday cupcakes for his class with him, like they always did. And since his, Granny had told him the story of the day his daddy burnt water, he didn't have much faith in his, dad’s cupcake abilities. Recipe or not. So, he asked Lily if she would help him make them.

As they are talking about it, Victor from accounting comes to, Lily’s desk. Yup, the one that, Ford is still standing at, to tell her, he had a great time on her family outing. If she ever needs a plus one again, he’s her man. Ford is hot, like mad hot. He can’t believe she took, Victor of all people, to the wedding. He asks to see her in his office. He asks about, Victor and why? She says, to appease her sister. He then invites her to, Ollie’s soccer game, and she accepts. When she has to save him, from an overzealous mom. What was meant to be, a peck goes nuclear. See how a lack of complete thoughts and real conversations can send mixed signals and messages. Ford is a wounded man, Lily is a woman who missed out on formative years to understand dating and love. But, both had loved and lost and fear is ruling them.
Profile Image for Lucy.
23 reviews
March 5, 2023
Something Real is everything I love about romance rolled into one.
The spice is hot, the angst is heart-wrenching, and the love is all consuming. Honestly, I think this might be Hope Ford’s best book yet!

You can feel how much Ford and Lily have longed for one another over the past two years, and the build-up to them getting together is a sweet, slow-burn that lights the pages on fire when it does finally happen.

I really admired Lily’s dedication to her younger sister, as well as the way she openly cares for everyone around her. She already has a great friendship with her boss, Ford, as well as a super cute bond with his son, which really solidified the love between them.
The way she helps Ollie deal with his grief over Granny’s passing brought a tear to my eye, while the way she stood up for other characters in the book made me want to give her a big ol’ high five.

Ford, of course, is equally wonderful, from how much he cares for his son, to the way he does everything he can to make things work with Lily. And let’s not forget the possessive words out of that man’s mouth. I challenge anyone not to get goosebumps!
Equally, I loved that he was always respectful, giving Lily space to decide, and even offering to walk away if that’s what made her happy, despite the idea breaking his own heart. Ford definitely cemented himself as one of my top book heroes!

It was also great to see the brothers and Issi make appearances throughout. The family love and camaraderie is still as strong as ever, and I can’t wait to see how Hudson fits in now that he’s finally coming home.

Overall, an addictive page-turning read, with great pacing, hot spice, heartfelt dialogue, and amazing chemistry between Ford and Lily.

The whole Whiskey Men series is an absolute recommend!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marcie's On The  Books.
248 reviews10 followers
September 6, 2023
Something Real by Hope Ford is full of sweet romance and age-gap yumminess. Enjoy a satisfying and heartwarming read full of love and all things romantic! Something Real will bring you plenty of happiness as you turn each page.

Ford is the perfect silver fox in his mid-forties and a hot billionaire! He is your next book boyfriend. When he finally makes his move to woo his assistant Lillian who has been with him for years, all bets are off! Ford is a guy who will insert himself in your life until you can't say NO! When he wants something, he makes all the stops! Not to mention, he wears his heart on his sleeve. This shows his vulnerability throughout the story, and WHAT A STORY IT is!

As Lillian tries to resist Ford's charms, she finds herself drawn to him in ways she never expected. Despite her better judgment telling her to keep things professional, she can't help but fall for his charismatic personality and unwavering determination.

Their romance is full of passion, drama, and a few unexpected twists along the way. Ford and Lillian's chemistry is undeniable, from business trips to steamy nights together. But with the pressures of running a successful business and personal issues, they'll have to work hard to make this relationship work.

Through it all, Ford proves himself to be a devoted partner, willing to do whatever it takes to make Lillian happy. He's a true gentleman with a sense of humor and a deep appreciation for the finer things in life.

If you're looking for a book boyfriend who's confident, successful, and incredibly sexy, look no further than Ford. With his charm, humor, and unwavering dedication, he'll lift you off your feet and leave you wanting more.

I absolutely loved this book! It's a great read that had me turning the pages faster and faster. I can't wait to dig into the next book in this series. Five hearts for sure!
502 reviews9 followers
March 12, 2023
Lilian has been Ford’s assistant for two years. Ford is a handsome single dad with an adoreable sweet son who Lilian has a great cconnection with. Lilian took care of her little sister Carrie, putting her first for the last twelve years after the sudden death of her parents. Now she is getting married and wishes for her sister to enjoy live, setting up several dates. Ford has been holding himself back for the last two years, knowing Lilian has had a no dating rule, which is not valid anymore. He feels deep for her. His brothers are reluctant not wanting to lose Lilian as assistant and friend, Ford has not had the best record with women. A lot hit on the sexy silver fox and he is 15 years older than Lilian. Lilian also has more than friendly feelings for her boss, but he is her boss and she does not really believe he would want her. When she is rescuing him from the unwanted advances of another woman they kiss. Something between them shifts and both can not forget the kiss. Ford realizes he really needs Lilian in his life and not only as his assistant.
Like always story and characters so well writtten, makes me really feel the story. Sometimes I wanted to shake Lilian to not hurt both of them and listen to her heart and that was hard to read, but luckily Ford knows who he wants. Can not wait for the stories of the other brothers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
161 reviews4 followers
July 22, 2023
This small-town romance is just something else. I love reading about a band of brothers/friends and after the first one, I knew the rest of the series would be just as enjoyable. Definitely a book where you just want to be left alone in your comfy spot and given the day to devour every page. Sometimes, these small-town romances come with the not-so-dramatic plots but they are sometimes the best simplistic stories you’ll read. Lilian and Ford are something more than just boss and assistant. Yes, I know. That already sounds corny but trust me, it is anything but. One thing you can trust on small-town romances that it comes packing with exceedingly charming men. Ford is all of that plus some. In the time that she has worked for the Whiskey Men, she has not only proven herself as a sufficient assistant with good work ethics, but she has also found a family within these brothers. It doesn’t help that she has also formed a great relationship with Ford’s young son, Ollie. She is everything he needs and it is up to him to convince her that she can have a life with him and his son. For a long time, she raised her younger sister and was like a mom to her. She never got to rest and have someone take care of her and that is where Ford comes in. Lily is far from a damsel in distress, but being on the receiving end of a little TLC is always welcomed. And that is exactly what Ford gives Lily, the love she deserves and care she’s needed.
2,458 reviews12 followers
March 14, 2023
Ford Blaze, CEO of Blaze Whiskey and Ollie's father, along with being oldest of all the Blaze Brothers. From the day, he he met his assistant Lillian Steele, he had been in love with her, but he knew he could not even date her as she was not dating at the present time. She was raising her kid sister so she was devoting all her time and resources to that. Having a child of his own, Ford respected that decision. Lillian's sister had recently gotten married making her promise to start living her own life and to make sure the sister setup a series of blind dates for Lillian. Once Ford discovered she was dating. He was extremely jealous. Lillian had had a thing for Ford all along except she did not think she was good enough for him. His wife left him while Ollie was a toddler never looking back. Lillian had helped with Ollie a great deal especially, since the death of his beloved grandmother. He just needed to convince her that she was his one, but women always seemed to leave him even his own mother left. Loved this story of two basically insecure people managed to fall in love and not hurt a five year old in the process.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for ELC.
2,094 reviews9 followers
March 15, 2023
Something Real by Hope Ford

I love me some Blaze brothers so any time I can get my hands on one of these men’s stories I’m so in. I loved Lucas’s story so much I was completely invested in all of the Blaze men and need every single one of their stories. So to say I was excited to get my hands on Ford’s story was an understatement. I knew he and Liliana just were perfect for one another since Reluctant Husband. I am so freaking happy I was so right. Absolutely loved just how perfect Lily was for Ford I mean come on she loved Ollie so darn much like she was her own it was so freaking cute. Then how Ford was this different person around her was so freaking cute. I just loved all of the dynamics surrounding them. She has spent the last twelve years raising her sister so she is just now living for her self. Ford has been holding his feelings for her back because of her no dating Rollie which was there because of her focus on her sister. However with Carrie married and happy and Lily dating Ford is no longer holding back. Eeep you guys this book it so freaking good. I was on pins and needles reading it I loved every second of it. I highly recommend you grab it. I can’t wait for the next brothers story which we will be getting Hudson I’m so freaking excited.
Profile Image for Melly Gem.
329 reviews8 followers
March 22, 2023
Whiplash... if you love miscommunication and back and forth burn, this is for you.
This was another cute, easy read. But it gave me severe whiplash.
Don't be fooled by the cover. It is personally not the best-looking one, in my opinion.
There is an age gap, but Lily is 30, and Ford is 45, so it's not weird bad.
But the relationship with Ford and Lily was actually really cute when they weren't talking themselves out of it every other page.
I wish there were more Ollie moments between them and background on Ford and his previous marriage, but hey.
I kept waiting for the ex to turn up to stir some drama, but that doesn't happen she has completely abandoned her 5 year old.
The timeline was a little odd it literally was over 2 weeks it went from making a move to being in love to being engaged (this isn't a mafia romance, haha).
I had to flick back a few pages at one point as I thought it was out of order, or I missed something.. as they finally get together in front of Ollie and then the next page they are distanced again it was weird. I actually thought he was going to ask her to move in, not get engaged. He says he brought the ring when she went on that date with another guy (ummm like 2 weeks ago 😆)
It could have been stretched out.
Profile Image for Aliama.
2,355 reviews9 followers
March 15, 2023
Lilian has been Ford’s assistant for the past two years. She’s an integral part of not only his work life but his personal life as well. Ford is the single father to his son Ollie. It’s been a rough few years when Ford’s wife walked out on him and their son and just recently his Granny died. Lilian has taken care of her younger sister since she was eleven. Now’s she’s finished college and married and Lilian finds herself alone. Knowing she should be doing the things she wants to do, Lilian is trying to navigate her feelings for Ford and thinking about the needs of everyone else. This was a heart breaking story in many ways. Lilian for losing her parents and bring up her sister while forgoing her own wants. Ford is loving and patient and wants to give Lilian the world but is afraid she be yet another person who leaves him. Throughout the story there was plenty of chemistry and angst. Ollie is a sweet little boy that added another layer and it was nice to see Ford’s brothers make appearances. I can’t wait to see which Blaze brother will find his HEA. I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lynn.
931 reviews30 followers
August 31, 2023
Ford and Lily

Lillian took care of her sister after their parents died, never dating or doing anything for herself. Lily took an executive assistant job for Ford at Blaze Whiskey Distillery to support her sister.

When Lily’s sister got married, Lily took a date to the wedding and her sister and brother-in-law had her set with multiple other dates for while they were away on their honeymoon. Ford couldn’t believe Lily was dating, because it was her rule that she didn’t date and here he was sitting on the sidelines.

Ford waited two years for Lillian, never paying any attention to the soccer moms and other women who threw themselves at him. Ford and his young son both relied heavily on Lily, and maybe it was just the natural order of things that they would both fall in love with her.

But will Lillian think he is too old? Will she want to sow some wild oats? Would Ford be able to stand it if Lily decided to date other men?

This was a good story that was well written, and if the language were a little less crass it could have been called sweet. Well done Hope Ford.
11.6k reviews49 followers
May 8, 2023
He is going to give her more than a little fun for the rest of her life

Something Real is the second book in the Whiskey Men series. I loved this story of an "older" couple who find a love that will knock your boots off and your panties melt. Ford is one of the four brothers who own a Whiskey company, where is the CEO. He is also a single father to a good natured five year old old, Ollie. Lilian became her younger sister, Carrie's, guardian after an accident and worked hard to raise her for the last twelve years. She has concentrated only on Carrie and kept a strict "no dating" rule all that time. But now Carrie has not only graduated college but also gotten married......and Lilian finds she has the house all to herself, finally! Lilian was hired as Ford's assistant two years ago and since that first meeting he has fallen hard for her. But he respected her rules and never pursued her in any way. Now that time is about to end when Lily decides she wants to have a little fun and he is just the man to ensure she gets it, for the rest of her life.
Profile Image for Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily).
1,594 reviews117 followers
March 9, 2023
Absolutely adored Ford and Lilian’s story! We met them both (more so Ford) in Ford’s brothers book Reluctant Husband. This book has so many of my favorite tropes!

Single dad ✔️
Boss/employee ✔️
Small town romance ✔️
Age gap ✔️
Alpha Hero ✔️

Lilian was hired to be Ford’s assistant two years ago. And Ford has been attracted to her and wanted her since the day he hired her. But he has kept his feeling in check because he didn’t want to make her uncomfortable and he knew that she wasn’t dating.

Now that Lilian has some new found freedom in her life, she has decided to start dating. And Ford is right there offering himself up. But does Ford come with too many strings when Lilian just wants to date around?

Both these characters and their push and pull was so realistic. You can tell how in love Ford was and how much Lilian wanted him back, but was just being resistant to change. I loved that they both got their HEA!

Looking forward to Ford’s brothers getting their stories next!
Profile Image for ReadonReader.
2,635 reviews6 followers
March 14, 2023
Ford and Lilian’s story was one full of hope and so many beautiful emotions you fall in love even more with this group of brothers. Ford is a single dad that has had his eyes on Lilian for some time, but it isn’t until a Vegas trip when Lilian opens up about finally wanting to date that Ford realizes now is his chance. Lilian has raised her younger sister for so long she seems more like a mother than sister, but now that her sister is grown and living her own life it’s time for Lilian to do the same. The more these two connect and embark on this emotional ride the more they bond and become something so much more, but with Lilian, Ford knows he has a lot of work cut out for him. Lilian does a lot of back and forth with her feelings and trying to keep things simple between Ford that at times it was frustrating because he is just perfectly imperfect. This family and their significant others have such amazing stories that pull at your heartstrings and I can’t wait for more.
2,451 reviews15 followers
March 15, 2023
The second book in Hope Ford's Whiskey Men series, Something Real, is a wonderfully written, engaging, and steamy age-gap / boss-employee / single dad romance. Lilian has been assistant to Ford Blaze, the CEO of Blaze Whiskey, for two years. He has wanted her since she interviewed for the job, but their age difference, the fact that he's her boss, and her choice not to date has kept him at a distance. However, when the younger sister that she raised gets married, Carrie starts setting Lilian up on dates - and Ford is suddenly fighting jealousy along with the rest of his feelings. Now that Lilian is "free", will she give in to her own attraction for her boss - especially when it becomes obvious that it's mutual? A sizzling, entertaining romance with wonderful supporting characters - especially Ollie, who you will absolutely fall in love with at first sight!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Edit.
1,592 reviews19 followers
March 17, 2023
2 stars

* Hero(s) - 2/5
* Heroine(s) - 2/5 (well, poor woman. After raising her sister, now she can raise another child)
* Secondary Characters - 3/5

* Plot/Storyline - 2/5
* Romance/Steam -2/5
* Drama/Conflict/Angst - 2/5
* Worldbuilding/Atmosphere - 3/5

* Writing Style - 3/5

ps. why does Ford look 60+ instead of 40+ with grey-white hair on the cover?!

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Adding this here since it's not on goodreads and it is too much trouble to add a new book now:

Love Again (Whiskey Men, #0.5) Oscar Blaze (available on Author's website)
https://authorhopeford.com/freebies/

1.5 stars

* Hero(s) - 2/5
* Heroine(s) - 2/5
* Secondary Characters - 2/5

* Plot/Storyline - 1/5
* Romance/Steam -1/5
* Drama/Conflict/Angst - 1/5 (bringing back the ex after 80% just for some forced drama ruined it all for me, until that point it was ok)
* Worldbuilding/Atmosphere - 2/5

* Writing Style - 2/5
Profile Image for Becky.
1,251 reviews123 followers
March 17, 2023
Ford and Lilian's story was a tale of hope and an abundance of beautiful emotions that would make anyone fall in love with this group of brothers even more. As a single dad, Ford had always admired Lilian from afar, but it wasn't until a trip to Las Vegas that Lilian opened up about wanting to date that Ford realized the time was right to make his move.

Lilian had spent much of her life raising her younger sister and had taken on a motherly role, but now that her sister had grown up and moved on, Lilian was ready to focus on her own life. As Ford and Lilian grew closer and embarked on this emotional journey together, their bond deepened, but Ford knew that winning over Lilian's heart would not be easy. Lilian struggled with conflicting emotions and tried to keep things simple between them, causing frustration for Ford, who was just perfectly imperfect.

It was an ok read, nothing exceptional just ok.
Profile Image for Natalie Clarke.
Author 12 books45 followers
March 30, 2023
A sexy silver-fox who just happens to be a single dad AND an age gap romance??? Of course I had to read it.

The cover is what attracted me to this book, because how could it not? This man is beautiful! 😍

The attraction between Ford and his younger assistant, Lilian is evident from the offset and you just know that when these two come together it's going to be 🔥🔥

I love a good small town romance that's equally as sweet as it is spicy. Sometimes I just feel I need a lighter, easier read to break up the dark and the heavy reading and this was it.

I really enjoyed this book, I just wished it was longer. I can't help feeling that it was a little rushed and we missed out on so much development of their relationship. I'd loved to have seen them grow more, but like I said, I really did enjoy Ford and Lily's story. I cannot wait to meet Hudson and who Elle is running from! A great teaser as to what expect in the next book!
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