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Single Dads Club #4
The Fireman and the Flirt
Is it in bad taste to sleep with a client? Asking for a friend…
In high school, Derek ruled the school with his fellow hockey players, while I fantasized from afar. He only knew me as his little brother’s shy friend who, thanks to one vicious rumor from a former flame, had garnered a reputation as the school freak.
Twenty years later, I’m a successful real estate agent who’s put my embarrassing past behind me and smartly stayed away from love. I have things under control…until Derek suddenly returns to Sourwood sans wedding ring, and in dire need of a house for him and his daughter.
Clinching this sale will cement my hard-earned status as a top agent and distance me from my embarrassing past. If only I can stop shamelessly flirting with my new client. If only I can stop dreaming about him bending me over newly updated marble countertops and stainless steel appliances. Old habits die hard.
Soon though, my fantasy version of Derek fades away as I learn the truth about his return. Maybe I can get him to no longer see me as his little brother’s weird friend. Maybe he can get me to let down my guard and trust a guy again.
Or maybe those dreams are as unrealistic as the housing budget for a couple on House Hunters.
The Fireman and the Flirt is the fourth book in the Single Dads Club series, but can be read as a standalone. It will give you all the brother's best friend, businessman/client, nerd/jock vibes you can handle without charging a commission.
In high school, Derek ruled the school with his fellow hockey players, while I fantasized from afar. He only knew me as his little brother’s shy friend who, thanks to one vicious rumor from a former flame, had garnered a reputation as the school freak.
Twenty years later, I’m a successful real estate agent who’s put my embarrassing past behind me and smartly stayed away from love. I have things under control…until Derek suddenly returns to Sourwood sans wedding ring, and in dire need of a house for him and his daughter.
Clinching this sale will cement my hard-earned status as a top agent and distance me from my embarrassing past. If only I can stop shamelessly flirting with my new client. If only I can stop dreaming about him bending me over newly updated marble countertops and stainless steel appliances. Old habits die hard.
Soon though, my fantasy version of Derek fades away as I learn the truth about his return. Maybe I can get him to no longer see me as his little brother’s weird friend. Maybe he can get me to let down my guard and trust a guy again.
Or maybe those dreams are as unrealistic as the housing budget for a couple on House Hunters.
The Fireman and the Flirt is the fourth book in the Single Dads Club series, but can be read as a standalone. It will give you all the brother's best friend, businessman/client, nerd/jock vibes you can handle without charging a commission.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2024
About the author
A.J. Truman
25 books691 followersWelcome! I’m a gay male author who writes MM romance filled with humor, heart, and hot guys. My characters fall into bed and fall in love, usually in that order. Think LOL meets DTF.
I live in central Indiana, surrounded by churches and Olive Gardens, with my husband, son, and cats. When I’m not writing, I’m chasing around a toddler or sneaking off to a movie.
Make sure to sign up for my newsletter The Outsiders to get the latest updates on my books and to start reading free stories.
http://www.ajtruman.com/outsiders/
I live in central Indiana, surrounded by churches and Olive Gardens, with my husband, son, and cats. When I’m not writing, I’m chasing around a toddler or sneaking off to a movie.
Make sure to sign up for my newsletter The Outsiders to get the latest updates on my books and to start reading free stories.
http://www.ajtruman.com/outsiders/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
April 20, 2024
Nearly everything about this book fell flat for me – the characters, their romance, the storyline, and the humor. I was more excited to see Cal and Russ, and their boys, again.
Points for body positivity and great narration by Nick J. Russo.
Points for body positivity and great narration by Nick J. Russo.
March 31, 2024
Cute, funny, hot and exactly what you’d expect. There are some cringe moments here and there, like the Swiftie monologue 🙄 or the ridiculous reason behind the “gearhead” nickname but all in all it was an enjoyable read.
I noticed a bit of change compared to the other books by this author and that is that it has less forced humor and instead it has a more subdued yet wittier humor.
I noticed a bit of change compared to the other books by this author and that is that it has less forced humor and instead it has a more subdued yet wittier humor.
April 21, 2024
Nice. But not overwhelmingly good.
This series was a safe read for me: mature characters, mostly drama free, not TOO much parenting stuff, and most of all: an excellent choice for an audiobook, seeing that the books are narrated by no other that Nick J Russo.
In this final installment, we have Derek - widowed, moving back to his home town after spending 20 years in Alaska, farther to a 12yo daughter. And Cary, who had a huge crush on Derek in highschool, who’s a real estate agent, and who’s now helping Derek to find a new home.
I loved Derek, and how he embraced his bisexuality. And I loved Cary to a certain degree, but I couldn’t really relate to him the same way. Cary has been bullied in highschool (after Derek left school, and the town). And 20 years later, he’s still very sensitive to that topic - which I understand. What I DIDN’T understand, is that he chose to believe Derek to be a potential bully, too, even though all Derek had ever shown him was kindness, respect, and love (even without saying the L-word yet).
Thankfully, the (very unnecessary) third act breakup was short lived.
As many of my friends, I’d rate the story with 3 stars and the narration with 5+++ - great audiobook if you need something easy on the ears 😍
This series was a safe read for me: mature characters, mostly drama free, not TOO much parenting stuff, and most of all: an excellent choice for an audiobook, seeing that the books are narrated by no other that Nick J Russo.
In this final installment, we have Derek - widowed, moving back to his home town after spending 20 years in Alaska, farther to a 12yo daughter. And Cary, who had a huge crush on Derek in highschool, who’s a real estate agent, and who’s now helping Derek to find a new home.
I loved Derek, and how he embraced his bisexuality. And I loved Cary to a certain degree, but I couldn’t really relate to him the same way. Cary has been bullied in highschool (after Derek left school, and the town). And 20 years later, he’s still very sensitive to that topic - which I understand. What I DIDN’T understand, is that he chose to believe Derek to be a potential bully, too, even though all Derek had ever shown him was kindness, respect, and love (even without saying the L-word yet).
Thankfully, the (very unnecessary) third act breakup was short lived.
As many of my friends, I’d rate the story with 3 stars and the narration with 5+++ - great audiobook if you need something easy on the ears 😍
![Profile Image for Kati *☆･ﾟ [a bit distracted atm].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1725834613i/144158876._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
April 7, 2024
3.75***** stars
audio: 5 stars
Took this book on my today’s endeavor to make my balcony habitable and cozy again. And what do you know, I had a good time. I always do with this series.
Admitted, totally on its own I probably would’ve been a bit bored in the second half but with feeling quite at home amidst the setting and characters it worked for me.
What I really appreciate about AJ’s writing is that his fictional men come in all shapes and sizes and he’s especially loving on the big and cuddly looking ones.
I’m curious if he will come back once more to this series in the future. Wouldn’t mind at all.
*************
Single Dads Club Series:
Prequel short - Three Nights with the Manny - 3.5 stars
Book 1 - The Falcon and the Foe - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - The Mayor and the Mystery Man - 4.0 stars
Book 3 - The Barkeep and the Bro - 4.0 stars
Book 4 - The Fireman and the Flirt - 3.75 stars
audio: 5 stars
Took this book on my today’s endeavor to make my balcony habitable and cozy again. And what do you know, I had a good time. I always do with this series.
Admitted, totally on its own I probably would’ve been a bit bored in the second half but with feeling quite at home amidst the setting and characters it worked for me.
What I really appreciate about AJ’s writing is that his fictional men come in all shapes and sizes and he’s especially loving on the big and cuddly looking ones.
I’m curious if he will come back once more to this series in the future. Wouldn’t mind at all.
*************
Single Dads Club Series:
Prequel short - Three Nights with the Manny - 3.5 stars
Book 1 - The Falcon and the Foe - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - The Mayor and the Mystery Man - 4.0 stars
Book 3 - The Barkeep and the Bro - 4.0 stars
Book 4 - The Fireman and the Flirt - 3.75 stars
April 6, 2024
Audio: 4.5 stars I enjoy any Nick J Russo narration
Book: 3 stars
Started with promise, but once they started getting together, and Cary started to use his past (gearhead) as a reason to push away was annoying. I started to lose interest around 60-ish% i was surprised Derek forgave Cary that fast.
Also they would hate me since I am a Starbucks lover lol.. whoops sorry not sorry 😬😂
Book: 3 stars
Started with promise, but once they started getting together, and Cary started to use his past (gearhead) as a reason to push away was annoying. I started to lose interest around 60-ish% i was surprised Derek forgave Cary that fast.
Also they would hate me since I am a Starbucks lover lol.. whoops sorry not sorry 😬😂
April 6, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
“I told myself to keep things professional. I couldn’t help it. He does things to me. He triggers the flirty part of my brain.” “Your prefrontal whoretex?”
I was pleasantly surprised when the push and pull and ‘I’m no good in a relationship’ situation wasn’t dragged out forever when it seemed to be going that way. A. J. Truman can for sure write romcoms. I don’t tend to find that kind of deliberate humor very funny, but it’s still entertaining. Derek and Cary were very cute together.
I got on better with Cary the further into the book we got, even though I wanted to yell at him a time or two. In the beginning he totally gave me teenage high school girl saying ‘Oh my god, I’m soooo random!’ vibes. I lost count of how many times he and everyone else talked about how weird and quirky he was, lol. Which is fine, I love a quirky and awkward character as much as the next gal, but it felt a little forced.
I wish Jolene, Derek’s daughter, was a bigger part of the book. She was a sweet teenager and I sometimes forgot that Derek was a single dad.
Definitely well written and if you’ve previously enjoyed this author’s work I’m sure you’ll enjoy this as well. I certainly enjoyed seeing Charlie and Mitch from The Barkeep and the Bro again.
There was an issue with the audiobook where chapter 27 was missing and instead repeated an earlier chapter. Thankfully I had access to the ebook and could read the missing chapter there before continuing with the audiobook. Hopefully that will be fixed posthaste.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Mild pining
Teenage crush
Fireman
Single dad
Widower
Friend’s brother
Romcom
First times
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Death of wife (off page, past)
Mentions of past forced outing
Mentions of past bullying
MC cheated on by wife (off page, past)
Anger (punching inanimate object)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 40 and (guessing) 42
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 285
“Welcome,” I said. “We’ll send you your pride flag in the mail.” “Is there a secret handshake?” “Only in the back rooms of certain clubs. I’m sure you’ll manage it well.”
“You’re so tight,” he said. Low-grade anxiety kept me permanently clenched, but I kept that tidbit to myself.
Fuck six-pack abs. The little belly Derek had was much sexier.
It was wild how fast I could go from cautious, normal Cary to a total cockmonster.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
“I told myself to keep things professional. I couldn’t help it. He does things to me. He triggers the flirty part of my brain.” “Your prefrontal whoretex?”
I was pleasantly surprised when the push and pull and ‘I’m no good in a relationship’ situation wasn’t dragged out forever when it seemed to be going that way. A. J. Truman can for sure write romcoms. I don’t tend to find that kind of deliberate humor very funny, but it’s still entertaining. Derek and Cary were very cute together.
I got on better with Cary the further into the book we got, even though I wanted to yell at him a time or two. In the beginning he totally gave me teenage high school girl saying ‘Oh my god, I’m soooo random!’ vibes. I lost count of how many times he and everyone else talked about how weird and quirky he was, lol. Which is fine, I love a quirky and awkward character as much as the next gal, but it felt a little forced.
I wish Jolene, Derek’s daughter, was a bigger part of the book. She was a sweet teenager and I sometimes forgot that Derek was a single dad.
Definitely well written and if you’ve previously enjoyed this author’s work I’m sure you’ll enjoy this as well. I certainly enjoyed seeing Charlie and Mitch from The Barkeep and the Bro again.
There was an issue with the audiobook where chapter 27 was missing and instead repeated an earlier chapter. Thankfully I had access to the ebook and could read the missing chapter there before continuing with the audiobook. Hopefully that will be fixed posthaste.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Mild pining
Teenage crush
Fireman
Single dad
Widower
Friend’s brother
Romcom
First times
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Death of wife (off page, past)
Mentions of past forced outing
Mentions of past bullying
MC cheated on by wife (off page, past)
Anger (punching inanimate object)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 40 and (guessing) 42
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 285
“Welcome,” I said. “We’ll send you your pride flag in the mail.” “Is there a secret handshake?” “Only in the back rooms of certain clubs. I’m sure you’ll manage it well.”
“You’re so tight,” he said. Low-grade anxiety kept me permanently clenched, but I kept that tidbit to myself.
Fuck six-pack abs. The little belly Derek had was much sexier.
It was wild how fast I could go from cautious, normal Cary to a total cockmonster.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
March 29, 2024
3 stars for enjoyment.
There isn't anything wrong with the book, it just happens to be a contemporary style that doesn't wow me, lighthearted, dialogue-heavy, one-liners and humor. (That damn humor thing keeps getting in the way of my enjoyment!)
A real estate agent meets his high school crush (best friend's older brother) 20 years later.
What I liked - Truman writes 30-40+ adults that act and talk their age (mostly) and makes it feel like a natural thing when a 40-year-old widower falls in love. None of that I'm too old/no one will want me nonsense.
Cary has some trauma from high school that is still following him around, the joys of living in a small town.
Also! Great, natural body positivity! Derek, the firefighter/widower/single dad, has a belly and it's attractively mentioned several times. Love it!
• Wasn’t it weird how as we got older, we found older people attractive? When I was a teenager, I never would’ve found a gut and wrinkles sexy. And yet here we were.
• “Oh. Hi,” I said, taking in Derek’s black Dave Matthews Band t- shirt, which highlighted his strong chest as well as his protruding stomach.“
• I kissed down his chest and stomach. Fuck six-pack abs. The little belly Derek had was much sexier. It was real. It was him.
• I flashed back to the way Cary stared at my body in the shower like I was the hottest thing on the planet. Nevermind that I had a gut, thinning hair, and an overgrown beard. It made me stand a little taller. I’d worried that I had let myself go and that aging wasn’t being kind to me, but Cary helped keep those fears at bay.
AJ Truman fans and fans of this series will like the book, and I own a couple more of Truman's books that I will read. I like the writing, even if this one wasn't for me.
Oh, lots of sex shenanigans inside houses Cary is showing Derek.
Highlights:
• “I mean, are fires hot in Alaska since it’s so cold there?”
“Yes. Fire is hot. Do you want me to order you another iced coffee?”
• I sometimes forgot how far I’d traveled. Four time zones wasn’t fucking around, though. (Dude is crying about the jet lag from Alaska to NY, LMAO. Sorry, that's funny.)
• “I told myself to keep things professional. I couldn’t help it. He does things to me. He triggers the flirty part of my brain.”
“Your prefrontal whoretex?”
• “Don’t tell Uncle Russ. Remember the year when mom overcooked the stuffing and it came out as one big bread blob?”
“And she just served it on a plate and told us to rip off pieces with our hands.”
.
• “And by the way, he’s not just my real estate agent. He’s my boyfriend. I’m bi, you fuckwads.”
There isn't anything wrong with the book, it just happens to be a contemporary style that doesn't wow me, lighthearted, dialogue-heavy, one-liners and humor. (That damn humor thing keeps getting in the way of my enjoyment!)
A real estate agent meets his high school crush (best friend's older brother) 20 years later.
What I liked - Truman writes 30-40+ adults that act and talk their age (mostly) and makes it feel like a natural thing when a 40-year-old widower falls in love. None of that I'm too old/no one will want me nonsense.
Cary has some trauma from high school that is still following him around, the joys of living in a small town.
Also! Great, natural body positivity! Derek, the firefighter/widower/single dad, has a belly and it's attractively mentioned several times. Love it!
• Wasn’t it weird how as we got older, we found older people attractive? When I was a teenager, I never would’ve found a gut and wrinkles sexy. And yet here we were.
• “Oh. Hi,” I said, taking in Derek’s black Dave Matthews Band t- shirt, which highlighted his strong chest as well as his protruding stomach.“
• I kissed down his chest and stomach. Fuck six-pack abs. The little belly Derek had was much sexier. It was real. It was him.
• I flashed back to the way Cary stared at my body in the shower like I was the hottest thing on the planet. Nevermind that I had a gut, thinning hair, and an overgrown beard. It made me stand a little taller. I’d worried that I had let myself go and that aging wasn’t being kind to me, but Cary helped keep those fears at bay.
AJ Truman fans and fans of this series will like the book, and I own a couple more of Truman's books that I will read. I like the writing, even if this one wasn't for me.
Oh, lots of sex shenanigans inside houses Cary is showing Derek.
Highlights:
• “I mean, are fires hot in Alaska since it’s so cold there?”
“Yes. Fire is hot. Do you want me to order you another iced coffee?”
• I sometimes forgot how far I’d traveled. Four time zones wasn’t fucking around, though. (Dude is crying about the jet lag from Alaska to NY, LMAO. Sorry, that's funny.)
• “I told myself to keep things professional. I couldn’t help it. He does things to me. He triggers the flirty part of my brain.”
“Your prefrontal whoretex?”
• “Don’t tell Uncle Russ. Remember the year when mom overcooked the stuffing and it came out as one big bread blob?”
“And she just served it on a plate and told us to rip off pieces with our hands.”
.
• “And by the way, he’s not just my real estate agent. He’s my boyfriend. I’m bi, you fuckwads.”
March 11, 2024
- single dad
- widower
- brother's best friend
- businessman x client
Derek has moved back to Sourwood after twenty years due to the sudden loss of his wife, and who better to help him find a place for him and his thirteen year old daughter than Cary, his little brother's best friend who just so happens to now be a successful real estate agent.
Derek doesn't remember much about Cary, just that he was shy and awkward, and labeled a freak thanks to a vicious rumor, but finds himself charmed by the fast talking, iced coffee drinking realtor.
Cary knows better than to flirt with a client, but the object of every dirty fantasy he had in high school is right in front of him flirting back, and he can't help himself from wanting Derek to see him more than the weird kid he used to know. The growing attraction between them makes keeping things strictly professional impossible, and Cary finds himself getting everything he ever wanted.
Their relationship isn't without a few hiccups. Cary has a lot of trust issues from what happened when he was a teenager, and Derek's hockey buddies kind of suck, but these two get the really sweet happily ever after they deserved. Their story had me giggling, blushing, and was all around such a great read!
- widower
- brother's best friend
- businessman x client
Derek has moved back to Sourwood after twenty years due to the sudden loss of his wife, and who better to help him find a place for him and his thirteen year old daughter than Cary, his little brother's best friend who just so happens to now be a successful real estate agent.
Derek doesn't remember much about Cary, just that he was shy and awkward, and labeled a freak thanks to a vicious rumor, but finds himself charmed by the fast talking, iced coffee drinking realtor.
Cary knows better than to flirt with a client, but the object of every dirty fantasy he had in high school is right in front of him flirting back, and he can't help himself from wanting Derek to see him more than the weird kid he used to know. The growing attraction between them makes keeping things strictly professional impossible, and Cary finds himself getting everything he ever wanted.
Their relationship isn't without a few hiccups. Cary has a lot of trust issues from what happened when he was a teenager, and Derek's hockey buddies kind of suck, but these two get the really sweet happily ever after they deserved. Their story had me giggling, blushing, and was all around such a great read!
September 5, 2024
The Fireman and the Flirt is another great entry to the Single Dads Club, this time following Cal's older brother Derek and Cal's friend from high school Cary.
Recently widowed Derek decides to move back to his home town with his daughter from Alaska. Staying with his brother while he looks for a house of his own. Cal recommends Cary, his friend and real estate agent to help him with the house hunt.
Cary had a one-sided crush on Derek back in high school, now Derek's back so too come his feelings. But this time seems different. There's a lot of flirty banter going on. But Cary's been hurt before and Derek will have to climb Cals walls in order to get what he wants.
__
Cary and Derek get into some spicy situations while house hunting, one that includes a less than graceful escape through a window in the nude.
While there's a lot of fun going on, this also deals with some more serious topics with Cary's being bullied in school and the lasting effects it caused, and more. It was balanced very well and added a lot to making out character and world more real.
I'm hoping there's more to come in this series!
Recently widowed Derek decides to move back to his home town with his daughter from Alaska. Staying with his brother while he looks for a house of his own. Cal recommends Cary, his friend and real estate agent to help him with the house hunt.
Cary had a one-sided crush on Derek back in high school, now Derek's back so too come his feelings. But this time seems different. There's a lot of flirty banter going on. But Cary's been hurt before and Derek will have to climb Cals walls in order to get what he wants.
__
Cary and Derek get into some spicy situations while house hunting, one that includes a less than graceful escape through a window in the nude.
While there's a lot of fun going on, this also deals with some more serious topics with Cary's being bullied in school and the lasting effects it caused, and more. It was balanced very well and added a lot to making out character and world more real.
I'm hoping there's more to come in this series!
March 30, 2024
2.5 🌟
This was OK.. it has the best friend’s brother/high school crush trope so I had to read it
It’s pretty low angst and cute. There were some funny lines but I found myself feeling less interested toward the end and skimming pages
This was OK.. it has the best friend’s brother/high school crush trope so I had to read it
It’s pretty low angst and cute. There were some funny lines but I found myself feeling less interested toward the end and skimming pages
April 7, 2024
Love love loooove. Cary needs all the love and support and apologies. And Derek is so steady and lovely and caring. And, my dudes, these two together are 🔥. I love how they solved their issues as maturely as possible and how they opened to each other little by little. It wasn't as ridiculously funny as the others, except for Cary jumping out the window (lmao at the gym). It was great to see the other couples happy and together.
As always, kudos to Nick J. Russo for bringing this characters to life with so much personality 🎧
As always, kudos to Nick J. Russo for bringing this characters to life with so much personality 🎧
April 15, 2024
I love that this series is all about middle-aged men, not young whippersnappers. And I love that each of them has a good backstory that makes them interesting and not cookie-cutter.
This was a fun read. Cary is adorable, and Derek is a really nice guy, even if both of them had some tragic times. There was little drama, except that one misunderstanding, and that was fairly quickly resolved. I felt for Cary, and I was really happy to see that Derek stood up for him. Their romance developed nicely, even if it went pretty quickly from meet to meat.
I giggled a few times, but I also had tears in my eyes when Cary tells Derek what happened to him in high school.
And I loved that Cary got some closure too. And a great boyfriend to boot.
This was a fun read. Cary is adorable, and Derek is a really nice guy, even if both of them had some tragic times. There was little drama, except that one misunderstanding, and that was fairly quickly resolved. I felt for Cary, and I was really happy to see that Derek stood up for him. Their romance developed nicely, even if it went pretty quickly from meet to meat.
I giggled a few times, but I also had tears in my eyes when Cary tells Derek what happened to him in high school.
And I loved that Cary got some closure too. And a great boyfriend to boot.
May 13, 2024
Pretty cute! I did myself a massive disservice by reading the 4th book of this series first, but I was still able to follow the story of the two main characters!
March 29, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: humour, single dad, small town
I loved being back in Sourwood with the Single Dads Club men - Cary and Derek's story was full of humour and heart, and they made me smile and swoon a lot!
I loved how Cary finally got a chance to act on his teenage crush, even if he tried real hard to resist Derek at first and maintaining a professional boundary between them. The resistance that Cary tried to put up led to some fun tension and a little push and pull between them, and it wasn't long before Cary climbed Derek like a tree. Be prepared for a lot of cute flirting and great chemistry!
Of course there were also some hilariously awkward scenes, Cary really didn't have much of a filter and I just adored him and how talkative he was. They complemented each other really well and I enjoyed seeing them together as a couple. It was overall a low angst and light-hearted story, even with Derek being recently widowed and Cary having some insecurities to work through. I liked how they were both patient and supportive of each other, even when things were very new between them.
The Fireman and the Flirt was a really charming and sweet story, written in A.J. Truman’s usual style; full with humour and warmth. I had a lot of fun reading this one, and it was a great addition to the Single Dads Club series!
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: humour, single dad, small town
I loved being back in Sourwood with the Single Dads Club men - Cary and Derek's story was full of humour and heart, and they made me smile and swoon a lot!
I loved how Cary finally got a chance to act on his teenage crush, even if he tried real hard to resist Derek at first and maintaining a professional boundary between them. The resistance that Cary tried to put up led to some fun tension and a little push and pull between them, and it wasn't long before Cary climbed Derek like a tree. Be prepared for a lot of cute flirting and great chemistry!
Of course there were also some hilariously awkward scenes, Cary really didn't have much of a filter and I just adored him and how talkative he was. They complemented each other really well and I enjoyed seeing them together as a couple. It was overall a low angst and light-hearted story, even with Derek being recently widowed and Cary having some insecurities to work through. I liked how they were both patient and supportive of each other, even when things were very new between them.
The Fireman and the Flirt was a really charming and sweet story, written in A.J. Truman’s usual style; full with humour and warmth. I had a lot of fun reading this one, and it was a great addition to the Single Dads Club series!
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
March 25, 2024
"My first thought was that we were going to fuck on a conference table, but then I realized my life wasn't a total porno."
This book was just so freaking cute!!! Cary is one of those MCs whose mouth just runs away with them. You know the type. They have no filter and just blurt out whatever random stream of consciousness that is going through their heads and then end up totally horrified about what just came out of their mouths. I adored him, and luckily for Cary, so did Derek.
It was kind of sweet how hard Cary tried to resist Derek at first. Almost every time Cary tried to remain a professional with Derek while showing him prospective homes it ended up with him practically leaping into Derek's arms and climbing that bear like a tree. Unfortunately, Cary also suffers from anxiety and as an anxiety sufferer myself I know how easy it is for it to trick your brain into thinking the worst. Thankfully, Derek was just as lovely as he seemed and he wasn't letting his man go without a fight.
I've read a lot of Truman's books, but this was my first in the Single Dad's club series. I have already added all 3 of the previous books in the series to my TBR because I just have to know the stories behind all the couples I met in this one. Falcon is already sitting pretty on my kindle and I can't wait to dive into that one next!
This book was just so freaking cute!!! Cary is one of those MCs whose mouth just runs away with them. You know the type. They have no filter and just blurt out whatever random stream of consciousness that is going through their heads and then end up totally horrified about what just came out of their mouths. I adored him, and luckily for Cary, so did Derek.
It was kind of sweet how hard Cary tried to resist Derek at first. Almost every time Cary tried to remain a professional with Derek while showing him prospective homes it ended up with him practically leaping into Derek's arms and climbing that bear like a tree. Unfortunately, Cary also suffers from anxiety and as an anxiety sufferer myself I know how easy it is for it to trick your brain into thinking the worst. Thankfully, Derek was just as lovely as he seemed and he wasn't letting his man go without a fight.
I've read a lot of Truman's books, but this was my first in the Single Dad's club series. I have already added all 3 of the previous books in the series to my TBR because I just have to know the stories behind all the couples I met in this one. Falcon is already sitting pretty on my kindle and I can't wait to dive into that one next!
June 21, 2024
Book 100 of 2024 and book 9 of Pride Month! 🏳️🌈🏳️🌈🏳️🌈
The Fireman and the Flirt was another great book in the Single Dads Club series. It was full of the usual cuteness and flirting, but this one had a lot more spice in my opinion. My one complaint was that the author didn’t really lean into the whole fireman thing, especially considering the title. The scenes could’ve been even hotter! 🔥🍆🏳️🌈
The Fireman and the Flirt was another great book in the Single Dads Club series. It was full of the usual cuteness and flirting, but this one had a lot more spice in my opinion. My one complaint was that the author didn’t really lean into the whole fireman thing, especially considering the title. The scenes could’ve been even hotter! 🔥🍆🏳️🌈
March 30, 2024
This series just never misses. It’s hit after hit after hit after hit! I love these men like they’re my own friend group and I just wanna put’em in my pocket and protect them.
The Fireman and the Flirt follows two of my (now) favorite men in the Single Dad’s Club, Cary & Derek.
Cary is haunted by the past. In high school, one bad sexual experience has led to years of bullying and hateful people talking about him behind his back. He’s built himself up as a successful real estate agent, but his outward playful flirty demeanor is hiding that one comment or hurtful remark could make his world crumble.
Derek has just moved back to Sourwood with his teenage daughter Jolene after the death of his wife. He was a jock in high school and now he’s a fireman. Instead of permanently living off of his brother’s couch (Cal from book 1), he’s sent to Cary to help him find a home. What he doesn’t know is that Cary’s had a crush on him since they were kids… but Derek’s straight, right?
These men have my whole heart!! Cary feels like the person who many bullied gay kids in high school grow up to be: Outwardly making jokes, but internally covering up the trauma of their past. It was nice to see that a really healthy relationship helped to mend some things.
Derek was just all around sexy!! You better believe I love a man in uniform (or out of it) and the fact that he’s a great dad was 🥵!! Like where do I get one? The fact that he went out of his way to show him how much he cared was 👨🏻🍳🤌🏼💋!!!
Their sexual adventurousness was hot! It was giving me new relationship, for sure. Like they just wanted to do it EVERYWHERE!!! I loved that and it felt really on point with what I would have been like in that situation.
This was the perfect 4th book!! To top it off, I read this as an audiobook and Nick J Russo was so incredible!!! I don’t know if I could read this any other way now that I’ve read all of the books in the series with him narrating them to me. 😂 He really makes the experience that much better!
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy. All thoughts are honest and my own.
The Fireman and the Flirt follows two of my (now) favorite men in the Single Dad’s Club, Cary & Derek.
Cary is haunted by the past. In high school, one bad sexual experience has led to years of bullying and hateful people talking about him behind his back. He’s built himself up as a successful real estate agent, but his outward playful flirty demeanor is hiding that one comment or hurtful remark could make his world crumble.
Derek has just moved back to Sourwood with his teenage daughter Jolene after the death of his wife. He was a jock in high school and now he’s a fireman. Instead of permanently living off of his brother’s couch (Cal from book 1), he’s sent to Cary to help him find a home. What he doesn’t know is that Cary’s had a crush on him since they were kids… but Derek’s straight, right?
These men have my whole heart!! Cary feels like the person who many bullied gay kids in high school grow up to be: Outwardly making jokes, but internally covering up the trauma of their past. It was nice to see that a really healthy relationship helped to mend some things.
Derek was just all around sexy!! You better believe I love a man in uniform (or out of it) and the fact that he’s a great dad was 🥵!! Like where do I get one? The fact that he went out of his way to show him how much he cared was 👨🏻🍳🤌🏼💋!!!
Their sexual adventurousness was hot! It was giving me new relationship, for sure. Like they just wanted to do it EVERYWHERE!!! I loved that and it felt really on point with what I would have been like in that situation.
This was the perfect 4th book!! To top it off, I read this as an audiobook and Nick J Russo was so incredible!!! I don’t know if I could read this any other way now that I’ve read all of the books in the series with him narrating them to me. 😂 He really makes the experience that much better!
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy. All thoughts are honest and my own.
March 17, 2024
Was do happy to hear Cals big brother was coming back to Sourwood so we could get another Single Dads Club story! Derek was the original Hogan in the friendship circle of Mitch & Leo, but life happened he moved away, and Cal moved home to be inducted. When Derek comes home, it is nice to see he easily fit back in place along with Cal. Than you have adorkable blunt Cary, Cals best friend from high school, who make Derek open up like with no one else. These two have unstoppable chemistry, and their banter just puts a smile on your face the whole way through. I'm glad that Derek helped Cary in the end move on from past insecurities. It's a wild thing that happens in our pasts that you just don't realize affect others, and you just let it keep repeating itself, not knowing the harm. It's nice to see people mature and move forward to be better. This story lived up to all my expectations!
Read
April 1, 2024Very in keeping with the remaining books in the series: low-angst and sweet.
I think I may have done it a disservice reading it after Advanced Chemistry though. I feel like we didn't get to see interact with Jolene enough and this does have the 'evil' late wife trope.
All in all, if looking for a Fireman x Realtor romance this will do the trick wonderfully - lots of house viewing and viewings of other things while in houses. First time discovering bi-side, with a dollop of hatred for Starbucks.
NSFW infos:
strict top bottom dynamic
both MCs in their forties
I think I may have done it a disservice reading it after Advanced Chemistry though. I feel like we didn't get to see interact with Jolene enough and this does have the 'evil' late wife trope.
All in all, if looking for a Fireman x Realtor romance this will do the trick wonderfully - lots of house viewing and viewings of other things while in houses. First time discovering bi-side, with a dollop of hatred for Starbucks.
NSFW infos:
strict top bottom dynamic
both MCs in their forties
April 5, 2024
Very funny sweet book, I jus didn't enjoy the writing style 😝
Read
March 28, 2024After a South High hiatus, we're back to the Single Dads Club and it was great to see Cary get his HEA! With so much high school baggage, including a huge crush, a scandal and a ton of bullying, not to mention a letter that he sent to his crush... he deserves to go from dreading to dating and with the object of his desire - his best friend's brother, Derek...
This was a fairly low angst, steamy romp through a thorough house hunt and a great story! I think you'd enjoy it more if you knew the history of the previous characters, including Cal, Derek's brother and his husband Russ, but it can be read standalone or in any order.
This was a fairly low angst, steamy romp through a thorough house hunt and a great story! I think you'd enjoy it more if you knew the history of the previous characters, including Cal, Derek's brother and his husband Russ, but it can be read standalone or in any order.
March 22, 2024
The Fireman and the Flirt is the fourth book in A.J. Truman’s Single Dads Club series. It can be read as a complete standalone. Here’s what you can expect from Derek and Cary:
- MM best friend’s brother romance
- First person dual point of view
- Guaranteed happily ever after
- Businessman/client
- Nerd/jock vibes
- Single dad
- Small town and found family
- Low angst and swoony
About: 20 years ago, Cary had the biggest crush on his best friend’s brother, Derek. High school wasn’t the best time for Cary after a vicious rumour made him an outcast amongst his classmates. Now Cary’s a successful real estate agent looking to leave his past where it belongs. Until Derek shows up back in Sourwood in need of a house for him and his daughter. Cary can’t help but shamelessly flirt with his new client and old crush, who seems like he might just be reciprocating. Both men have scars they don’t often let the people around them see, but can they manage to close on a happily ever after on top of Derek’s new house?
I was so excited to find out there was going to be another book in the Single Dads Club series! I love A.J. Truman’s work so much - it’s low angst but still filled with lots of heart and steam. The Fireman and the Flirt was no exception, and I had such a fun time reading Derek and Cary’s story. Cary was such an awesome character. I definitely have a soft spot for those adorkable characters, and that perfectly describes Cary. I loved his awkwardness, and more importantly, how Derek embraced that part of him. The house hunting aspect of this book was such a fun touch, and it was a good way for Derek and Cary to get to know one another better. Of course I appreciated all the cameos from the Single Dads Club (the part where the movie was filming in Mitch’s bar was absolutely hilarious), and it was lovely watching Derek grow closer with his brother Cal. I also enjoyed getting to know Derek’s daughter, Jolene, and her bonding with Cary over Taylor Swift was everything I didn’t know I needed.
If you’re looking for books that will give you the best warm and fuzzy vibes, with lots of laughs and great steam, you’ll want to check out the Single Dads series as well as the related South Rock High series!
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
- MM best friend’s brother romance
- First person dual point of view
- Guaranteed happily ever after
- Businessman/client
- Nerd/jock vibes
- Single dad
- Small town and found family
- Low angst and swoony
About: 20 years ago, Cary had the biggest crush on his best friend’s brother, Derek. High school wasn’t the best time for Cary after a vicious rumour made him an outcast amongst his classmates. Now Cary’s a successful real estate agent looking to leave his past where it belongs. Until Derek shows up back in Sourwood in need of a house for him and his daughter. Cary can’t help but shamelessly flirt with his new client and old crush, who seems like he might just be reciprocating. Both men have scars they don’t often let the people around them see, but can they manage to close on a happily ever after on top of Derek’s new house?
At the time, the only person I had been out to was Cal, but I couldn’t talk to him about wanting to offer every hole in my body to his brother as if I were a mini-golf course.
I was so excited to find out there was going to be another book in the Single Dads Club series! I love A.J. Truman’s work so much - it’s low angst but still filled with lots of heart and steam. The Fireman and the Flirt was no exception, and I had such a fun time reading Derek and Cary’s story. Cary was such an awesome character. I definitely have a soft spot for those adorkable characters, and that perfectly describes Cary. I loved his awkwardness, and more importantly, how Derek embraced that part of him. The house hunting aspect of this book was such a fun touch, and it was a good way for Derek and Cary to get to know one another better. Of course I appreciated all the cameos from the Single Dads Club (the part where the movie was filming in Mitch’s bar was absolutely hilarious), and it was lovely watching Derek grow closer with his brother Cal. I also enjoyed getting to know Derek’s daughter, Jolene, and her bonding with Cary over Taylor Swift was everything I didn’t know I needed.
If you’re looking for books that will give you the best warm and fuzzy vibes, with lots of laughs and great steam, you’ll want to check out the Single Dads series as well as the related South Rock High series!
It didn’t matter that it was a black screen. Derek sent me all the stars in the sky. Stars were inherently romantic. And thus, I had no choice but to swoon.
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow ARC Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2024
I enjoyed this series so much and was so excited when the author announced that Derek ( Cal's older brother ) would be having a book this book didn't disappoint me, it was filled with humour, spice and lots of swoony moments.
Even though we have never met Derek in the previous books and only heard his name and the life he led in Alaska. But now he is back in Sourwood as a widower with his young daughter and he needs a house where he can fresh start.
As for Cary, we met a few times in the previous books as an iced-coffee-obsessed realtor who is talkative and people thought he was weird, also he had a huge crush on Derek in high school.
Derek and Cary had amazing chemistry, as they went on a mission to find the perfect house for Derek and his daughter they also might have christened a lot of places. They were hot and their sexual chemistry was spicy, I enjoyed every moment of it but loved it when they did it the first time in bed ( Gah I am a sucker for romance ).
Derek and Cary both had trust issues which held them back from committing to the relationship but I loved how they fought back to get their HEA, which was so satisfying.
Even though the nickname Cary wanted to get rid of stayed with him, I liked how he stood up for himself and Derek was beside him and loved him with all his weirdness.
I enjoyed the Cameos of the SDC guys and loved their relationship with Derek and Cary. Also, I loved Jolene ( Derek's daughter ) and her relationship with Cary.
I highly recommend you check this series out.
* I received an ARC copy from Neon Rainbow Reviews and this is my honest review *
Even though we have never met Derek in the previous books and only heard his name and the life he led in Alaska. But now he is back in Sourwood as a widower with his young daughter and he needs a house where he can fresh start.
As for Cary, we met a few times in the previous books as an iced-coffee-obsessed realtor who is talkative and people thought he was weird, also he had a huge crush on Derek in high school.
Derek and Cary had amazing chemistry, as they went on a mission to find the perfect house for Derek and his daughter they also might have christened a lot of places. They were hot and their sexual chemistry was spicy, I enjoyed every moment of it but loved it when they did it the first time in bed ( Gah I am a sucker for romance ).
Derek and Cary both had trust issues which held them back from committing to the relationship but I loved how they fought back to get their HEA, which was so satisfying.
Even though the nickname Cary wanted to get rid of stayed with him, I liked how he stood up for himself and Derek was beside him and loved him with all his weirdness.
I enjoyed the Cameos of the SDC guys and loved their relationship with Derek and Cary. Also, I loved Jolene ( Derek's daughter ) and her relationship with Cary.
I highly recommend you check this series out.
* I received an ARC copy from Neon Rainbow Reviews and this is my honest review *
March 22, 2024
Cary had a huge crush on his best friend's brother when he was at school. Now 40 he meets him whilst helping him find a house. He almost reverts back to being a teenager with how giggly and nervous being around Derek. This is surprisingly hot and most of the scenes take place out of the bedroom, which adds so much fun. I found myself smiling all the way through. These two just had a great time together. There is a partial third act break up but not overly angsty and doesn't last long before they both realise how miserable they are apart. A fun addition to this series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2024
Very cute and low angst. There was a bit of a fairytale vibe, with Cary getting together with his high school crush, Derek. Cary made me laugh. I also liked catching up with the characters from previous books, especially Cal and Russ, they're still my favorites. I liked that the characters are all older and not as physically perfect as we are used to seeing. Derek's daughter Jolene was also lovely, I'm glad she had no drama with Cary or with her dad's sexuality.
May 24, 2024
Derek and Cary 🥹
The Fireman and the Flirt
Book 4 in the Single Dad Club series
Derek and his pre-teen daughter move back to his home town of Sourwood after his wives passing. Though he’s sad and mourning it’s kind of a complicated situation since their marriage wasn’t as strong and loving as everyone around him thought. Crashing with his brother and his new husband along with his nephews until he gets his own place. Finding the right house isn’t a rush for him, but he know he has to get a place to 1 get off the fold out bed, and 2 so his daughters school won’t be disrupted. His brothers best friend Cary is now a realtor in their little town, he remembers Cary from their high school days mostly that he hung around the house a lot and was kind of odd. In the process of looking for his new home, he also seems to be in the process of finding he really enjoys spending time with Cary Perkowski, maybe more than he thought he would.
Cary has always been the towns weirdo, a rumor from his high school days when he was still closeted has been a huge weight on his back into adulthood. His dating track recorded is almost nonexistent, when people get close his mind goes back to high school Cary that was büllied. When Cary’s best friend Cal tells him over lunch that his brother who was the star of all of his high school fantasies was back in town and needing to find a house, and he was the man for the job, alarm bells went off! A note left in Derek’s locker that either was ignored or never seen was all that he could think about, plus he’d be in close contact with the one man who held every bit of Cary’s lustful fantasies. On the verge of winning the office’s trip to Bali for best sales he had to be professional no flirting with Derek Hogan.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ohhhhh A.J what a way to wrap up this series. Cary was a little ball of energy and anxiety. And Derek was just so sweet and he tried so hard but also didn’t want to push Cary 🥹. He’s such a great day do Jo, and Cary for perfect to complete the little trio. So good I’m so glad I was able to read this series!
The Fireman and the Flirt
Book 4 in the Single Dad Club series
Derek and his pre-teen daughter move back to his home town of Sourwood after his wives passing. Though he’s sad and mourning it’s kind of a complicated situation since their marriage wasn’t as strong and loving as everyone around him thought. Crashing with his brother and his new husband along with his nephews until he gets his own place. Finding the right house isn’t a rush for him, but he know he has to get a place to 1 get off the fold out bed, and 2 so his daughters school won’t be disrupted. His brothers best friend Cary is now a realtor in their little town, he remembers Cary from their high school days mostly that he hung around the house a lot and was kind of odd. In the process of looking for his new home, he also seems to be in the process of finding he really enjoys spending time with Cary Perkowski, maybe more than he thought he would.
Cary has always been the towns weirdo, a rumor from his high school days when he was still closeted has been a huge weight on his back into adulthood. His dating track recorded is almost nonexistent, when people get close his mind goes back to high school Cary that was büllied. When Cary’s best friend Cal tells him over lunch that his brother who was the star of all of his high school fantasies was back in town and needing to find a house, and he was the man for the job, alarm bells went off! A note left in Derek’s locker that either was ignored or never seen was all that he could think about, plus he’d be in close contact with the one man who held every bit of Cary’s lustful fantasies. On the verge of winning the office’s trip to Bali for best sales he had to be professional no flirting with Derek Hogan.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ohhhhh A.J what a way to wrap up this series. Cary was a little ball of energy and anxiety. And Derek was just so sweet and he tried so hard but also didn’t want to push Cary 🥹. He’s such a great day do Jo, and Cary for perfect to complete the little trio. So good I’m so glad I was able to read this series!
March 27, 2024
This book was so beautiful and funny from the start! I love A.J. Truman's books because they always make me sigh and laugh, and this one didn't disappoint.
Cary has spent his whole life trying to prove he is more than the name he was given at high school. His reputation was thrown to the mud and he hasn't recovered from it yet, even though he's already 40. He's centered on his career until Derek, his best friend's older brother, comes back to town and hires him to find a house.
Since they first got together I just loved it! Cary had had a crush on Derek since high school and he still did. However, it took Derek a while to realise what Cary made him feel, but how perfect they were together and I kept hoping they'll take a step forward once and for all.
I loved how they got to know one another house visit after house visit. Those encounters were funny and I loved Cary's positivism, at the same time it was a way to peel off each other's layers and see what was underneath of what they showed to the world. They understood each other and shared so much in common. Derek, after being away for so long, treated Cary without any prejudice and that made Cary feel special for the first time in his life.
I enjoyed that the author portrayed mature MCs, it's always refreshing to get characters in their 40's as it's easier to relate to their life struggles if you are around that age. And also, to show that love has no time limit or age. The body positivity in this book was great and very welcoming too.
This story is a slow burn romance, with a bi-awakening and so much banter that I couldn't stop laughing. I mean, there is a scene where Cary has to escape a house that had me laughing in tears. I just laughed and laughed, and one of the things that made me laugh so much was Derek, who didn't understand a thing but helped Cary anyway.
This is the first book I read in the Single Dads Club and now I need to read the previous ones because I'm sure they'll be as good as this one. I absolutely loved this book as it was a great, wonderful read full of Caryisms.
Cary has spent his whole life trying to prove he is more than the name he was given at high school. His reputation was thrown to the mud and he hasn't recovered from it yet, even though he's already 40. He's centered on his career until Derek, his best friend's older brother, comes back to town and hires him to find a house.
Since they first got together I just loved it! Cary had had a crush on Derek since high school and he still did. However, it took Derek a while to realise what Cary made him feel, but how perfect they were together and I kept hoping they'll take a step forward once and for all.
I loved how they got to know one another house visit after house visit. Those encounters were funny and I loved Cary's positivism, at the same time it was a way to peel off each other's layers and see what was underneath of what they showed to the world. They understood each other and shared so much in common. Derek, after being away for so long, treated Cary without any prejudice and that made Cary feel special for the first time in his life.
I enjoyed that the author portrayed mature MCs, it's always refreshing to get characters in their 40's as it's easier to relate to their life struggles if you are around that age. And also, to show that love has no time limit or age. The body positivity in this book was great and very welcoming too.
This story is a slow burn romance, with a bi-awakening and so much banter that I couldn't stop laughing. I mean, there is a scene where Cary has to escape a house that had me laughing in tears. I just laughed and laughed, and one of the things that made me laugh so much was Derek, who didn't understand a thing but helped Cary anyway.
This is the first book I read in the Single Dads Club and now I need to read the previous ones because I'm sure they'll be as good as this one. I absolutely loved this book as it was a great, wonderful read full of Caryisms.
March 30, 2024
The Fireman and the Flirt by A.J. Truman
🩵 Fireman x Real Estate Agent
🩵 Best Friends Brother
🩵 Single Dad
🩵 Childhood Crush
🩵 Mature MCs
🩵 Found Family
🔥Semi-Public sex
In this book we meet Derek, Cal's brother, who moves back to Sourwood after the death of his wife. Everyone treats Derek like a sad widower, not knowing that things with his wife were not as good they seemed. Derek is not only healing from her death but also the hurt she brought him when he meets Cary, the local real estate agent and Cals best friend. Unbeknownst to Derek, Cary has always had a crush on him and the more time they spend together house hunting, the more sparks fly between them. As things start to heat up they both realise that this could be more than a hookup, but with both of them carrying extra baggage, things aren't as simple as they seem.
Childhood bullying has left Cary with deep insecurities. He keeps people at arms length, never trusting or letting anyone in. It was really special seeing him open up to Derek and I enjoyed seeing him grow throughout the story. Derek is starting over, trying to do best by his daughter but stuck in a rut. Spending time with Cary breathes new life into him and gives him a glimpse of a brighter future than he originally anticipated.
I always enjoy the found family aspects of AJs books and that's something he definitely delivered again in this story. I loved seeing all the couples from the previous books and their cameos were definitely the highlight of this story for me.
Though this book was not my favourite, it is still a great addition to the series and i'd recommend reading it if you loved the previous books from this world.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭🤭
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺.5
First person dual pov 👀
CW: mentions of death of a spouse, mentions of cheating (not between mc's), mentions of bullying and forced outing (past), PTSD, anxiety.
🩵 Fireman x Real Estate Agent
🩵 Best Friends Brother
🩵 Single Dad
🩵 Childhood Crush
🩵 Mature MCs
🩵 Found Family
🔥Semi-Public sex
In this book we meet Derek, Cal's brother, who moves back to Sourwood after the death of his wife. Everyone treats Derek like a sad widower, not knowing that things with his wife were not as good they seemed. Derek is not only healing from her death but also the hurt she brought him when he meets Cary, the local real estate agent and Cals best friend. Unbeknownst to Derek, Cary has always had a crush on him and the more time they spend together house hunting, the more sparks fly between them. As things start to heat up they both realise that this could be more than a hookup, but with both of them carrying extra baggage, things aren't as simple as they seem.
Childhood bullying has left Cary with deep insecurities. He keeps people at arms length, never trusting or letting anyone in. It was really special seeing him open up to Derek and I enjoyed seeing him grow throughout the story. Derek is starting over, trying to do best by his daughter but stuck in a rut. Spending time with Cary breathes new life into him and gives him a glimpse of a brighter future than he originally anticipated.
I always enjoy the found family aspects of AJs books and that's something he definitely delivered again in this story. I loved seeing all the couples from the previous books and their cameos were definitely the highlight of this story for me.
Though this book was not my favourite, it is still a great addition to the series and i'd recommend reading it if you loved the previous books from this world.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Humour: 🤭🤭🤭
Intimacy: 🫂🫂🫂🫂
Angst: 🥺🥺.5
First person dual pov 👀
CW: mentions of death of a spouse, mentions of cheating (not between mc's), mentions of bullying and forced outing (past), PTSD, anxiety.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2024
I love this series. This is one of my favorite series and I recommend it to anyone because single dads find love and being good parents to their children. We love to see that.
Now I was super hyped up to read this book and while I did enjoy reading it, I did have issues with it that I think have more to do with me than the actual story. I give this a weak 4 rating.
1. The Gearhead storyline was just...odd. I do not know if it was oddly written or how it kept getting explained throughout the book but something about it was just off to me. Also, the way Derek acted about this nickname when talking to Cary was just fucking weird. I have no idea how in his brain he thought that the name was a fun joke after the way Mitch explained it to him.
2. Derek just seemed dense at times and that bothered me.
3. The Christmas movie storyline kept throwing me off because it was like pages related to that and I was like oh yeah this is not about that.
4. Mitch kinda of seemed like a jerk at times which was weirdly out of character for him. He is stubborn and stern but not jerky.
5. Sometimes the characters just said some out-of-pocket things that were like "Wow we say that in 2024?".
6. I feel that how the characters are placed in this book was just super random at times and there were so many characters I felt that I needed a chart.
It was cute and hot but minor things kept this from being a strong 4 or even a 5 for me.
Now I was super hyped up to read this book and while I did enjoy reading it, I did have issues with it that I think have more to do with me than the actual story. I give this a weak 4 rating.
1. The Gearhead storyline was just...odd. I do not know if it was oddly written or how it kept getting explained throughout the book but something about it was just off to me. Also, the way Derek acted about this nickname when talking to Cary was just fucking weird. I have no idea how in his brain he thought that the name was a fun joke after the way Mitch explained it to him.
2. Derek just seemed dense at times and that bothered me.
3. The Christmas movie storyline kept throwing me off because it was like pages related to that and I was like oh yeah this is not about that.
4. Mitch kinda of seemed like a jerk at times which was weirdly out of character for him. He is stubborn and stern but not jerky.
5. Sometimes the characters just said some out-of-pocket things that were like "Wow we say that in 2024?".
6. I feel that how the characters are placed in this book was just super random at times and there were so many characters I felt that I needed a chart.
It was cute and hot but minor things kept this from being a strong 4 or even a 5 for me.
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