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Haven's Cove #1
Hard to Let Go
Owen Richards lives a quiet life in his small hometown of Haven’s Cove. He has a rewarding life consisting of three very supportive—not to mention feisty—women, and a successful bakery that he owns and absolutely loves. Yet, Owen can’t seem to shake this emptiness inside or the intense feeling that something is missing. A sudden encounter with a man from his past, one he despises, turns his entire world upside down. When Owen finds himself attracted to that sexy man, he questions everything, including his sanity. After all, only an incredibly disturbed person would find that he can’t stop thinking about his high school bully.
Brody Walker never expected to return to Haven’s Cove. He’s made a life for himself in Boston, where he can truly be the person he was always meant to be. But an unexpected call has Brody facing all the demons he’d left behind so long ago. Now, he’s faced with not only a difficult goodbye, but one long overdue apology to a man who is no longer that lanky kid from high school. The challenge is to convince the guy he’s changed—and also prove he’s worth taking a chance on.
When passions ignite truths are exposed, changing the beliefs these men have held on to for years. Faced with the knowledge that things aren’t always what they seem, will they choose to hold on to the incredible thing they’ve found…or is it easier to give in to the fear and let go?
Brody Walker never expected to return to Haven’s Cove. He’s made a life for himself in Boston, where he can truly be the person he was always meant to be. But an unexpected call has Brody facing all the demons he’d left behind so long ago. Now, he’s faced with not only a difficult goodbye, but one long overdue apology to a man who is no longer that lanky kid from high school. The challenge is to convince the guy he’s changed—and also prove he’s worth taking a chance on.
When passions ignite truths are exposed, changing the beliefs these men have held on to for years. Faced with the knowledge that things aren’t always what they seem, will they choose to hold on to the incredible thing they’ve found…or is it easier to give in to the fear and let go?
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2018
232 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
March 1, 2018
~2.5~
I really dislike stories where one of the MCs is already in a relationship. Owen stayed with Jonah even as he was lusting after another man. They didn't break up until the 30 percent mark, and before the paint had even dried, Owen and Brody were making out and jumping into a relationship two seconds later. I felt bad for Jonah.
The dual POV was helpful, and the sex was hot, but it was hard to feel positive about the HEA when I saw how bored Owen had been with Jonah. I figured he'd be the same way with Brody in a year or two.
Also, something about the dialect was robotic.
I'm clearly in the minority, but I didn't love this one.
I really dislike stories where one of the MCs is already in a relationship. Owen stayed with Jonah even as he was lusting after another man. They didn't break up until the 30 percent mark, and before the paint had even dried, Owen and Brody were making out and jumping into a relationship two seconds later. I felt bad for Jonah.
The dual POV was helpful, and the sex was hot, but it was hard to feel positive about the HEA when I saw how bored Owen had been with Jonah. I figured he'd be the same way with Brody in a year or two.
Also, something about the dialect was robotic.
I'm clearly in the minority, but I didn't love this one.
February 23, 2018
Have you ever read a book and knew, the entire read, that the content should be and normally would be, getting on your nerves? I have! This book!
I don't know what happened or what is going on but I actually liked this. Quite a bit. It doesn't make much sense to me, I could list its faults, or at least what I see as faults, and I recognized them for what they were but I just kept reading and kept liking it.
So weird.
I'm not going to dwell on this weirdness though. It has been a tough week and this was quite a welcome addition. I'd rather enjoy a book and not know why then dislike a book, yeah?
So, I don't know why or what but this worked for me and I liked it and I am very anxious to read about Nate. Really anxious.
I don't know what happened or what is going on but I actually liked this. Quite a bit. It doesn't make much sense to me, I could list its faults, or at least what I see as faults, and I recognized them for what they were but I just kept reading and kept liking it.
So weird.
I'm not going to dwell on this weirdness though. It has been a tough week and this was quite a welcome addition. I'd rather enjoy a book and not know why then dislike a book, yeah?
So, I don't know why or what but this worked for me and I liked it and I am very anxious to read about Nate. Really anxious.
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December 15, 2018
dnf @ 55%
Ow, a very promising beginning turned dnf midway through for me. I enjoyed the writing style but lost interest in the characters and their story.
The book starts off to paint a lovely and realistic portrait of a long term relationship in the final days before a breakup. Refreshing and unusual choice in a romance novel, and I love this book for that section of the story alone. Also in the first chapters there are well written flashbacks to childhood memories of bullying and being bullied.
Back to the intended couple! As adults the bully and his victim meet again. The author seem to understand being bullied often leaves a victim with emotional scars and pent up anger and lets the main character, Owen, express such feelings in the first meetings between the protagonists. Next they fall in incontrollable lust with each other. Somewhere here the character's actions begin to make less and less sense to me.
From the first intimate scene and onwards the victim is barraged by relatives, his ex, even friends of the bully to FORGIVE his childhood abuser. "Give him a chance", "He's a changed man", "He had his heart broken and deserves to be loved", "If you're not interested you should tell him so, to string him along is not fair". All while Owen is unsure of what he feels for Brody, the bully. What is not FAIR is all of the focus is on the bully's wellbeing! Nobody's seems interested in the state of Owen's heart, ask about his tears or what he needs to heal. Seeing a victim pushed into the arms of his tormentor this way is what killed the romance in this story for me.
Ow, a very promising beginning turned dnf midway through for me. I enjoyed the writing style but lost interest in the characters and their story.
The book starts off to paint a lovely and realistic portrait of a long term relationship in the final days before a breakup. Refreshing and unusual choice in a romance novel, and I love this book for that section of the story alone. Also in the first chapters there are well written flashbacks to childhood memories of bullying and being bullied.
Back to the intended couple! As adults the bully and his victim meet again. The author seem to understand being bullied often leaves a victim with emotional scars and pent up anger and lets the main character, Owen, express such feelings in the first meetings between the protagonists. Next they fall in incontrollable lust with each other. Somewhere here the character's actions begin to make less and less sense to me.
From the first intimate scene and onwards the victim is barraged by relatives, his ex, even friends of the bully to FORGIVE his childhood abuser. "Give him a chance", "He's a changed man", "He had his heart broken and deserves to be loved", "If you're not interested you should tell him so, to string him along is not fair". All while Owen is unsure of what he feels for Brody, the bully. What is not FAIR is all of the focus is on the bully's wellbeing! Nobody's seems interested in the state of Owen's heart, ask about his tears or what he needs to heal. Seeing a victim pushed into the arms of his tormentor this way is what killed the romance in this story for me.
February 26, 2018
No oculto mi amor por las novelas con segundas oportunidades o el trope de enemigos a amantes y símiles acerca de electrodomésticos a parte (yuck), creo que puedo decir que no hay ni un solo personaje en toda la novela que me haya gustado, bastante unidimensionales y acartonados, por no decir que a algunos les hubiese dado tres yoyas, empezando por el insoportable amigo del bully, y pasando por la prima petarda del otro prota, qué epic fail. Huid, yo voy a echarle la culpa al KU.
February 14, 2018
I loved this book about small towns, second chances, old school enemies reconnecting and how the actions of our younger days can go on to define us through into adulthood.
I believe this is Jaclyn's debut book, if so, it's superbly well done with a narrative which is well paced and flows easily between past remembrances and current happenings. It's hard to get the tone right when you have two characters who were antagonistic in their past but this was played to perfection.
When Owen bumped into Brody - literally - all the feelings he'd buried away from the torment he'd suffered were brought back to the surface and, while the set up of them meeting again was clearly telegraphed, it still worked.
There are also brilliantly strong female characters in this, Owen's mum, aunt and cousin, Brody's aunt and his mum, there to provide positive and loving influences.
There's a great bunch of secondary characters in this book too and the world building was great, evoking the small town feel of a place where everyone knows what they "think" is your business but not always having the full truth.
Both Owen and Brody have hurdles to overcome. This isn't a straight forward fall into love, there are deep rooted fears and pains which get in the way at times. But they have a real connection, one which neither of them can put aside.
I loved how their friends (Owen's ex Jonah - please tell me we're going to get his story as well) and Gabe (who is awesome and, I hope, the subject of a book 2!) were also supportive and quietly scheming in the background.
The sex is beyond hot, it's emotional and passionate, but also settles into supportive and loving as their relationship develops. I loved that there was no misunderstandings or a lack of communication about what was going on and their feelings.
There was anger and hurt, understandably so on Owen's part, but he wasn't just stubbornly refusing to try sort it out. There were conversations and painful truths revealed which just made the whole romance even more understandable.
I'm hoping this is just the start of a series set in this little town because I NEED to know whether Gabe manages to finally find out why Nate runs away from him at every turn and I want Jonah to find his own HEA.
#ARC kindly supplied by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I believe this is Jaclyn's debut book, if so, it's superbly well done with a narrative which is well paced and flows easily between past remembrances and current happenings. It's hard to get the tone right when you have two characters who were antagonistic in their past but this was played to perfection.
When Owen bumped into Brody - literally - all the feelings he'd buried away from the torment he'd suffered were brought back to the surface and, while the set up of them meeting again was clearly telegraphed, it still worked.
There are also brilliantly strong female characters in this, Owen's mum, aunt and cousin, Brody's aunt and his mum, there to provide positive and loving influences.
There's a great bunch of secondary characters in this book too and the world building was great, evoking the small town feel of a place where everyone knows what they "think" is your business but not always having the full truth.
Both Owen and Brody have hurdles to overcome. This isn't a straight forward fall into love, there are deep rooted fears and pains which get in the way at times. But they have a real connection, one which neither of them can put aside.
I loved how their friends (Owen's ex Jonah - please tell me we're going to get his story as well) and Gabe (who is awesome and, I hope, the subject of a book 2!) were also supportive and quietly scheming in the background.
The sex is beyond hot, it's emotional and passionate, but also settles into supportive and loving as their relationship develops. I loved that there was no misunderstandings or a lack of communication about what was going on and their feelings.
There was anger and hurt, understandably so on Owen's part, but he wasn't just stubbornly refusing to try sort it out. There were conversations and painful truths revealed which just made the whole romance even more understandable.
I'm hoping this is just the start of a series set in this little town because I NEED to know whether Gabe manages to finally find out why Nate runs away from him at every turn and I want Jonah to find his own HEA.
#ARC kindly supplied by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
June 20, 2018
After finishing this book I’m definitely going to start reading more MM books because if this is what I’ve been missing that I’m an idiot. This story is like the light at the end of a tunnel.
I think this book just might be one of my favorite love stories to date. It has some kind a pull that you don't want to break it with the words THE END.
Owen has come a long way since his days when he was bullied in High school. He lives his life out in the open with the support of this family. Brody was one of the bullies that made his life hell as a young boy. He's returned to his home town to make the final days of his mother’s life more bearable. He also wants to apologize to Owen the way he treated him and to explain why he was like that back then. But nobody said it’s going to be easy.
� That no matter how much you f$%ked up, you still always had the opportunity to start over with a clean slate. Of course, you always had to pay to start over again, but what victory comes without sacrifice?�
Brody is desperate to make Owen see that he is not the same as he was back in High School. Little by little Owen begins to see another side to the man that has returned into his life and is making him fall hard in love. Brody is still struggling with the years lost with his mother and his past which makes Owen do whatever it takes to help him heal.
”No one can make you feel small if you don’t let them!�
The best part off the book for me? When Owen stood up to ǻ’s dad!!!I’m super excited for Gabe and Nate’s story. I have a feeling it will be even better than this one.
Since this is a debut book by Jaclyn Quinn all i can say is: WHAT A WAY TO START YOUR CAREER - PERFECTION!
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
I think this book just might be one of my favorite love stories to date. It has some kind a pull that you don't want to break it with the words THE END.
Owen has come a long way since his days when he was bullied in High school. He lives his life out in the open with the support of this family. Brody was one of the bullies that made his life hell as a young boy. He's returned to his home town to make the final days of his mother’s life more bearable. He also wants to apologize to Owen the way he treated him and to explain why he was like that back then. But nobody said it’s going to be easy.
� That no matter how much you f$%ked up, you still always had the opportunity to start over with a clean slate. Of course, you always had to pay to start over again, but what victory comes without sacrifice?�
Brody is desperate to make Owen see that he is not the same as he was back in High School. Little by little Owen begins to see another side to the man that has returned into his life and is making him fall hard in love. Brody is still struggling with the years lost with his mother and his past which makes Owen do whatever it takes to help him heal.
”No one can make you feel small if you don’t let them!�
The best part off the book for me? When Owen stood up to ǻ’s dad!!!I’m super excited for Gabe and Nate’s story. I have a feeling it will be even better than this one.
Since this is a debut book by Jaclyn Quinn all i can say is: WHAT A WAY TO START YOUR CAREER - PERFECTION!
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
February 23, 2021
So this was somewhat an unconventional read. Meaning Owen being in a relationship with a guy that's not Brody, the other MC in this book. I can see that being a problem for some readers out there. With that said, it wasn't for me. They was in a relationship but they didn't love each other anymore. They just didn't know how to end their relationship. It actually made me feel more connected to the story since I personally have a similar story to how I met my husband. I actually found it quite necessary to the story.
There's a bit of angst going on in this book. Owen and Brody has a past. Both men have been struggling to get past it and when they first meet tension is high and emotions even higher. But as soon as they actually start talking about what happened in the past, the relationship between the two men are pure and cute. Most of the angst is coming from outside the relationship. With Owen learning to trust Brody and dealing with guilt from moving on from Jonah so quickly and Brody's mother being sick. Little to none relationship angst was necessary.
There was a great cast of secondary characters in this book. I can't wait to read Gabe and Jonah's stories.
There's a bit of angst going on in this book. Owen and Brody has a past. Both men have been struggling to get past it and when they first meet tension is high and emotions even higher. But as soon as they actually start talking about what happened in the past, the relationship between the two men are pure and cute. Most of the angst is coming from outside the relationship. With Owen learning to trust Brody and dealing with guilt from moving on from Jonah so quickly and Brody's mother being sick. Little to none relationship angst was necessary.
There was a great cast of secondary characters in this book. I can't wait to read Gabe and Jonah's stories.
April 29, 2021
Something was off with this book and I can't quite put my finger on it. The ex-bully trope is not my favorite and I'm not sure it was handled well here. Everyone is telling Owen to give Brody a chance but it's coming from people who don't know Brody and should really be on Owen's side so that did not make much sense. Gabe's meddling was too much IMO. I felt that the relationship development was rushed, they think they love each other WAY too fast. Everyone is telling them they are in love after a week... Brody did not do enough groveling for me, he ended up proving that he had changed but after they got together and it should have happened before for me. Owen was really passive in his life I found and expected BRody to share a lot but did not really reciprocate. I don't really feel that I know Owen. The only positives were that they supported each other and were sweet/hot, is that enough of a reason to read this one? I'm not sure
May 2, 2023
A new-to-me author and I enjoyed this story and have moved on to the next in the series. Owen and Brody's story has a lot going on. Brody moves back to his small hometown to spend time with his dying mother who he hasn't seen in over a decade. Owen, the object of bullying in HS by Brody's group of friends, can't stop thinking about the man since he returned to town and is also struggling with ending a relationship that has romantically run its course. Both have painful pasts they need to deal with before moving forward.
Former bully to lover is a tough one for me and there was a lot that could have turned me off, but I thought the author handled it all very well. Just enough drama and angst, some real conversations and of course, a HEA. Found family seems like it will be a theme to the series and I'm looking forward to more.
Former bully to lover is a tough one for me and there was a lot that could have turned me off, but I thought the author handled it all very well. Just enough drama and angst, some real conversations and of course, a HEA. Found family seems like it will be a theme to the series and I'm looking forward to more.
February 25, 2018
I am a big fan of the MM genre and get a good book has become quite a bit of a problem.
I found this story from a friend who was impressed by her and I tried ..
The story itself is nothing new; hate to lovers , but this is one of the few stories where almost all the players present are so convincing and beautifully completed that you just want to learn more about them and that is the main reason that pulls you to wait for the next one.. ... great reading!
March 22, 2022
Very solid enemies to lovers romance, nice performance by Sean Crisden.
May 4, 2025
Owen Richards lives a quiet life in his small hometown of Haven’s Cove. He has a rewarding life consisting of three very supportive, not to mention feisty women, and a successful bakery that he owns and absolutely loves. Yet, Owen can’t seem to shake this emptiness inside or the intense feeling that something is missing. A sudden encounter with a man from his past, one he despises, turns his entire world upside down.
Owen Richards seems to be generally happy, but one thing is missing even though he has a live-in boyfriend, Jonah. Owen and Jonah have simply "outgrown" one another...they're not in love anymore. They've stopped kissing, and while they are still sleeping in the same room and in the same bed, they haven’t done more than just sleep, in months. Also frustrating for Owen is that kitchen remodel project that Jonah decided to do all on his own. It’s certainly not going well. It's already been a difficult day and it's still just early morning. Just when Owen thinks that things couldn't get any worse, life proves him wrong when he almost gets hit by a truck, and then he sees who's driving the truck, and becomes angry.
The driver of that truck is none other than Brody Walker. He’s come back to Haven’s Cove after being away for 15-years. Brody doesn't really know where he actually wants to be, but he knows to the depth of his soul that he doesn’t want to be in Haven's Cove!! The only reason that he's there now, is because his mother is dying, and he knows that he needs to put some of his "demons" to rest. This includes an apology to a certain man who he had treated very badly in high school. Things had gone from bad to worse when Brody is hired as a contractor to do...you guessed it... a kitchen remodel project and guess whose house it is.... you got it. None other than Owen Richards.
Both men know that there’s a mutual attraction...there always has been... but they’re each "broken" in their own way. The story is based, from this point on, on Owen learning to let go of the past, and Brody learning to face a future without his mother, while trying to come to terms with who he is and continuing to work for forgiveness for his past sins.
We meet other characters that have either played or are currently playing a role in Owen's life and happiness. Jonah, of course, who above all else was Owen's friend even when they realized they were no longer in love. Some had smaller parts, like one of ǻ’s high school friends. He was still as much of a loser and a jerk as he had been back then, but the part of the story that he appears in was a pivotal point to the rest of the story.
The ending was wrapped up nicely. It was entirely predictable, but that was fine. I love a "Happy Ever After" ending, and this one was heavy on the "Happy". I felt like I’d made some new friends, as well as found a new series to enjoy.
Owen Richards seems to be generally happy, but one thing is missing even though he has a live-in boyfriend, Jonah. Owen and Jonah have simply "outgrown" one another...they're not in love anymore. They've stopped kissing, and while they are still sleeping in the same room and in the same bed, they haven’t done more than just sleep, in months. Also frustrating for Owen is that kitchen remodel project that Jonah decided to do all on his own. It’s certainly not going well. It's already been a difficult day and it's still just early morning. Just when Owen thinks that things couldn't get any worse, life proves him wrong when he almost gets hit by a truck, and then he sees who's driving the truck, and becomes angry.
The driver of that truck is none other than Brody Walker. He’s come back to Haven’s Cove after being away for 15-years. Brody doesn't really know where he actually wants to be, but he knows to the depth of his soul that he doesn’t want to be in Haven's Cove!! The only reason that he's there now, is because his mother is dying, and he knows that he needs to put some of his "demons" to rest. This includes an apology to a certain man who he had treated very badly in high school. Things had gone from bad to worse when Brody is hired as a contractor to do...you guessed it... a kitchen remodel project and guess whose house it is.... you got it. None other than Owen Richards.
Both men know that there’s a mutual attraction...there always has been... but they’re each "broken" in their own way. The story is based, from this point on, on Owen learning to let go of the past, and Brody learning to face a future without his mother, while trying to come to terms with who he is and continuing to work for forgiveness for his past sins.
We meet other characters that have either played or are currently playing a role in Owen's life and happiness. Jonah, of course, who above all else was Owen's friend even when they realized they were no longer in love. Some had smaller parts, like one of ǻ’s high school friends. He was still as much of a loser and a jerk as he had been back then, but the part of the story that he appears in was a pivotal point to the rest of the story.
The ending was wrapped up nicely. It was entirely predictable, but that was fine. I love a "Happy Ever After" ending, and this one was heavy on the "Happy". I felt like I’d made some new friends, as well as found a new series to enjoy.
February 15, 2018
#PASSIONATE, #EMOTIONAL, #HOT, #SECONDCHANCE, #ENEMIESTOLOVERS, #SMALLTOWNLIFE
I am in awe that this is the debut Novel for Jaclyn Quinn! Her writing, and storyline were so perfect! I would not have guessed this is her first published book!
Owen and ǻ’s story is one that sticks with you for days. The chemistry between these two are off the charts! With the past and present beautifully mixed in the storyline, you can’t help but fall in love with these two.
The small town life is in full affect in this story as well, and Owen and ǻ’s best friends Jonah (Owen’s Ex) and Gabe (ǻ’s Best Friend from Boston), play a big part in getting these two together. The developments in characters are great. I couldn’t help devouring the pages!
I seriously hope this is the beginning of an amazing small town series, because Gabe has me so intrigued with his obsession with Nate, and I need to know why Nate keeps running away from Gabe! Then don’t get me started on Red, I mean come on who is this hickey from! Lastly, I need Jonah to get his HEA. He truly deserves it. Such a great start to hopefully an amazing series! I defiantly recommend!
**ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**
I am in awe that this is the debut Novel for Jaclyn Quinn! Her writing, and storyline were so perfect! I would not have guessed this is her first published book!
Owen and ǻ’s story is one that sticks with you for days. The chemistry between these two are off the charts! With the past and present beautifully mixed in the storyline, you can’t help but fall in love with these two.
The small town life is in full affect in this story as well, and Owen and ǻ’s best friends Jonah (Owen’s Ex) and Gabe (ǻ’s Best Friend from Boston), play a big part in getting these two together. The developments in characters are great. I couldn’t help devouring the pages!
I seriously hope this is the beginning of an amazing small town series, because Gabe has me so intrigued with his obsession with Nate, and I need to know why Nate keeps running away from Gabe! Then don’t get me started on Red, I mean come on who is this hickey from! Lastly, I need Jonah to get his HEA. He truly deserves it. Such a great start to hopefully an amazing series! I defiantly recommend!
**ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**
March 20, 2018
A review.
4.5 stars
Hard to Let Go had a little of everything…a small town, a second chance, and just enough angst to hold my interest without overwhelming me. I enjoyed it very much and I consider it to be an outstanding first novel for author Jaclyn Quinn.
I really liked Owen and Brody. I felt like I understood both of them. I was bullied in school and held on to my anger and confusion until my 20th high school reunion when I got several apologies from the people who were mean to me. I was able to let go and forgive. Because of that, I was able to appreciate what each man was going through. Also, as I read, I was able to see the strength both men had, but didn’t realize it.
Owen and Brody had great chemistry from when they encountered each other on the street in Haven’s Cove, right to the very end. Their sexual relationship was incredibly hot. The sex scenes were awesome, but they weren’t gratuitous. I feel like it was almost a comfort for the both of them. Their connection was off the charts and that made me feel connected to them. The actual love story was gradual and natural. It certainly wasn’t a case of instalove. The pace of not only their relationship, but the whole book, was smooth and well written. I was impressed with how immersed I felt.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety .
4.5 stars
Hard to Let Go had a little of everything…a small town, a second chance, and just enough angst to hold my interest without overwhelming me. I enjoyed it very much and I consider it to be an outstanding first novel for author Jaclyn Quinn.
I really liked Owen and Brody. I felt like I understood both of them. I was bullied in school and held on to my anger and confusion until my 20th high school reunion when I got several apologies from the people who were mean to me. I was able to let go and forgive. Because of that, I was able to appreciate what each man was going through. Also, as I read, I was able to see the strength both men had, but didn’t realize it.
Owen and Brody had great chemistry from when they encountered each other on the street in Haven’s Cove, right to the very end. Their sexual relationship was incredibly hot. The sex scenes were awesome, but they weren’t gratuitous. I feel like it was almost a comfort for the both of them. Their connection was off the charts and that made me feel connected to them. The actual love story was gradual and natural. It certainly wasn’t a case of instalove. The pace of not only their relationship, but the whole book, was smooth and well written. I was impressed with how immersed I felt.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety .
March 27, 2020
reread March 26, 2020
**** A marvelous romance, great characters, and hot loving !
Owen, 33, baker, and Jonah's romance is over, but they are still roommates.
Brody, 33, high school bully, is back after 15 years to see his dying mother. We see his sad back story of abuse and shame, and he desperately wants to apologize to Owen.
We love Brody's best friend, flamboyant Gabe, and Owen's best gal friend, cousin Leslie, they are fun. Owen won't talk to Brody, so he doesn't know the secret, or the attempted apology. Jonah hires Brody to remodel their kitchen, without knowing the story. Eventually, the men talk a bit and later more heavy talks. Conversations between several people work to sort it out.
Owen and Brody are then having hot sexy times. Brody's Mom's condition gets worse.
This lovely tale is sexy, serious, funny, and also makes us cry; so heartbreaking, and heartwarming. I loved the cast of characters and we get a marvelous epilogue.
ENJOY !
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Thank you sweet Hadis for the rec ! A new author for me :)
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**** A marvelous romance, great characters, and hot loving !
Owen, 33, baker, and Jonah's romance is over, but they are still roommates.
Brody, 33, high school bully, is back after 15 years to see his dying mother. We see his sad back story of abuse and shame, and he desperately wants to apologize to Owen.
We love Brody's best friend, flamboyant Gabe, and Owen's best gal friend, cousin Leslie, they are fun. Owen won't talk to Brody, so he doesn't know the secret, or the attempted apology. Jonah hires Brody to remodel their kitchen, without knowing the story. Eventually, the men talk a bit and later more heavy talks. Conversations between several people work to sort it out.
Owen and Brody are then having hot sexy times. Brody's Mom's condition gets worse.
This lovely tale is sexy, serious, funny, and also makes us cry; so heartbreaking, and heartwarming. I loved the cast of characters and we get a marvelous epilogue.
ENJOY !
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Thank you sweet Hadis for the rec ! A new author for me :)
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February 22, 2018
DNF. Good portion of the story involved doormat Owen and his dead relationship with his insensitive passivist boyfriend Jonah. I lost interest in Owen, detested Jonah, and couldn’t sympathize for former bully Brody. Even ǻ’s friend was obnoxious. The characters were all “off�. I didn’t buy into any of them.
March 21, 2018
*3.5 stars*
Completely agree with Jen's review.
Completely agree with Jen's review.
February 19, 2018
Hard to Let Go by Jaclyn Quinn was a well written story about a small town, prejudice, and how actions during childhood can affect you well into your adult years. The antagonistic nature of this enemies to lovers story could have been angst filled, but the author does a great job of balancing out the memories of the past with the realities of the present and writing characters capable of growth and accepting of the changes they’ve made over the years. Written with a maturity not often seen in first time authors, Hard to Let Go was a spectacular debut novel.
Owen moved back to his hometown when he inherited his great- aunt’s home upon her death and bought the bakery he worked in as a teenager. So when he literally bumps into Brody, one of his high school tormentors he is furious and on edge. When his boyfriend hires Brody to help with the remodel of his house, he is beside himself but worse than that he can’t deny the attraction he feels for a man who made his life a living hell and called him every horrible name in the book.
I don’t want to give away too much about this story but suffice it to say that Brody isn’t the same person he was back in high school, for that matter neither is Owen. They must move past some big obstacles to become friendly and eventually more and even then trust is an issue. Their sexy times are beyond explosive and there is no doubt they communicate quite well in that area, but in reality there isn’t a lot of angst between these two. The spend time getting to know one another now, sharing their lives after high school, and accepting that they both have changed. They both have a best friend that is there for them through the ups and downs and there are some very strong women characters in this book that support them both, something not often found in gay romance so I appreciated that uniqueness. *Let me be clear despite the fact that Owen had a boyfriend at the beginning of this book, there is no cheating in this book.*
I’m grateful that both these men were pretty level headed, they were able to step back and take a look at a situation and move forward, and most of all when needed they were there for each other through difficult times.
With a compelling cast of both primary and secondary characters, an intricate plot, steamy sexual encounters, and rich dialog, Hard To Let Go was a joy to read and an exceptional romance.
September 26, 2024
3.5⭐️
Okay so I wanna say I really did enjoy this book a lot. I had fun and it was well paced and had a lot of steamy moments. However I felt like Owen and ǻ’s relationship was based purely on sex. Literally they are just horny for one another. We got confessions to why things happened how they did during their childhood but they never really had deep or meaningful conversations with one another. Other than Owen being there for Brody during his Moms final days we really didn’t get emotional chemistry between the two of them. On the other hand I cried twice because of the emotional scenes between Owen and Jonah. So even though I love a let’s fuck and be in love type of book, sometime I just want good vibes and a nice ride, this book did have emotional moments; but never really between the two main characters. Jonah and Owen had emotional talks, Gabe and Brody had talks, and Brody and his mother had emotional talks but never the main couple which kind of makes me upset. Because the whole point of the book is a second chance romance with a high school bully and there could been more deep conversations between the two other than the confessions on why Brody was the way he was. Owen didn’t even have a deep conversation with Brody. Ugh just annoyed me. Anyways taking out the lack of emotional chemistry; the book was good and I enjoyed all the banter between the main characters and the side characters. The whole cast was great, plus the sexual chemistry was good as well. 3.5 because at the end of the day the book could have been sexier and more romantic and emotional.
July 4, 2019
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this first book in the Haven's Cove series. I can see why and how this wouldn't work for everyone when it comes to ending a relationship and starting a new one - but I think it felt natural with how Owen was with Jonah in the first quarter of the book, and how everything progressed. They truly were friends - and falling out of love in a long-term relationship doesn't have to end in arguments, anger, and cheating. Owen and Jonah were mature adults and will be the very best of friends for the rest of their lives, they just need different romantic partners. And Owen has found his in Brody - his high school bully.
I'm a big fan of second chance romance where they used to be enemies, and I loved reading about Owen and Brody falling for each other. Their chemistry was great, the romance was beautiful, and I just really enjoyed this one. I loved the small town setting, the hints of what is to come for Jonah, Brody's best friend Gabe moving into town, and I can tell that I'm really going to enjoy this group of friends.
I'm a big fan of second chance romance where they used to be enemies, and I loved reading about Owen and Brody falling for each other. Their chemistry was great, the romance was beautiful, and I just really enjoyed this one. I loved the small town setting, the hints of what is to come for Jonah, Brody's best friend Gabe moving into town, and I can tell that I'm really going to enjoy this group of friends.
February 19, 2018
Hard to Let Go, Jaclyn Quinn's debut novel, is wonderful!! Solid 4 stars!! I read in to the wee hours of the morning because there was no way I was going to bed without finishing it. I'm so impressed. The writing was top notch! I blame her for my puffy, red eyes and stuffy nose!! It's a beautifully written enemies to lovers story that had me laughing and crying, (happy and gut-wrenching sad tears), with fantastic supporting characters whom I can't wait to read about in future books, not to mention some hot, angry sex!! Who doesn't love hot, angry sex?? LOL
February 22, 2018
Impressive. Honestly, if I had been handed this book and known nothing about this author (which I honestly know very little) I would never have guessed that this was her first book. This was so fantastic.
A childhood bully/bullied, enemies to lovers story, this one had all the buildup I look for. The kissing was scorching hot and honestly the entire relationship developed amazingly well.
While I started out feeling this had similarities to another recent book I have read, this steered quickly into new territory and the story grew quite beautifully. ǻ’s childhood and his relationship with his mother was just heartbreaking. But the love and devotion that transpired tapped into the feels something hard. Phew. I was a mess.
For the first time in Owen’s memory, the long table his grandfather built over 40 years ago, was filled with family-blood and chosen.
Family indeed. This had such a strong sense of family. Of love. Of commitment. And of support. These moments were simply beautiful.
I have heard more is to come from this author and eagerly await more on Jonah. He was a quiet force but so compassionate and strong. And Gabe…wow! Look out. I am so in love with this character. His style, his wit and his love for Brody was written perfectly. In addition, the banter with Leslie was just so well done and genuine. Every scene felt real.
I adored the aunts, the mothers and even sweet and confused Nate. Cannot wait to see more from this guy as well.
Overall, I adored every moment of this book and cannot find one thing to complain about. LOL
** Highly Recommended**
An ARC was received from the Author in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2024
Cool concept
I enjoyed the chemistry between the couple, but I needed more.
I enjoyed the chemistry between the couple, but I needed more.
April 19, 2018
edit: I reread this book (preparing myself for the second one!) and this time I didn't like it as much as the first time, so my rating is 3/3,5 stars.
The thing that changed my mind the most is Owen. I really dislike him. the first time I read the story I ignored the fact that he was already in a relationship and his whole behaviour.. but this time he got on my nerves!
I still like the story but the mc spoils things. instead, Brody is a likeable character and I still appreciate him.
first review:
this book was amazing! I think it's the author's debut and it's really a good book, well written and the plot well developed.
it's an enemies to lovers story (more like former high school bully with his victim), second chances and hope, based in a small town. It has some angst, but meanwhile is sweet and full of hope.
I really recommend it, this new author deserves to be read 😁
I can't wait to read Gabe's story (and hopefully next Jonah's)!
The thing that changed my mind the most is Owen. I really dislike him. the first time I read the story I ignored the fact that he was already in a relationship and his whole behaviour.. but this time he got on my nerves!
I still like the story but the mc spoils things. instead, Brody is a likeable character and I still appreciate him.
first review:
this book was amazing! I think it's the author's debut and it's really a good book, well written and the plot well developed.
it's an enemies to lovers story (more like former high school bully with his victim), second chances and hope, based in a small town. It has some angst, but meanwhile is sweet and full of hope.
I really recommend it, this new author deserves to be read 😁
I can't wait to read Gabe's story (and hopefully next Jonah's)!
January 6, 2019
Ok, I hate to say anything bad because the book wasn't all that horrible, it was just kind of meh. I think some of the other reviewers had some good points. Some didn't like Jonah and thought he was being insensitive to Owen's feelings (which I kind of agree with) while others thought Jonah was a bit of a victim (which I don't necessarily agree with.) Either way Jonah and Owen's relationship as a couple was long over and they were just going through the motions when Brody came along. And Jonah and Owen had already agreed to separate before Owen and Brody got together, so there wasn't any cheating.
I don't know if I'll move on to the next book or not but I have so many books in my TBR now that it may not happen.
I don't know if I'll move on to the next book or not but I have so many books in my TBR now that it may not happen.
April 18, 2019
This could be more of a “me, not the book� situation. I did not care for the pacing of the story much, particularly in regard to Owen and Brody getting together. I just couldn’t identify, connect or generate any empathy for either. Not a bad story, just didn’t resonate with me.
February 16, 2018
4 STARS
I believe this is a debut book for this author and she is off to a great start.
The characters are well developed and each of them bring so much to the story. Owen is frustrated from a bad past experience and his current relationship with Jonah is not going well. Jonah knows things are not good but neither of them are dealing with the elephant in the room. Owen's high school bully is back in town and you know how small towns are everyone knows everyone and everything. But to Owen's surprise he finds himself curios about Brody and Brody well just finds Own downright sexy. With both of them curious and unsure of themselves due to their past personal lives it is a story that keeps you enthralled as you find out if they can get past the issues and fins true love. There is a cast if characters on the side including Jonah but the one that brings you to tears of laughter is Gabe. Gabe will have you in stitches as this story unfolds.
This is a M/M romance that is beautifully told with lots of emotions and insecurities represented. This author did a fabulous job writing it and left me looking for more from her. Great job on her debut!!!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review for Rockstar Book Muse.
I believe this is a debut book for this author and she is off to a great start.
The characters are well developed and each of them bring so much to the story. Owen is frustrated from a bad past experience and his current relationship with Jonah is not going well. Jonah knows things are not good but neither of them are dealing with the elephant in the room. Owen's high school bully is back in town and you know how small towns are everyone knows everyone and everything. But to Owen's surprise he finds himself curios about Brody and Brody well just finds Own downright sexy. With both of them curious and unsure of themselves due to their past personal lives it is a story that keeps you enthralled as you find out if they can get past the issues and fins true love. There is a cast if characters on the side including Jonah but the one that brings you to tears of laughter is Gabe. Gabe will have you in stitches as this story unfolds.
This is a M/M romance that is beautifully told with lots of emotions and insecurities represented. This author did a fabulous job writing it and left me looking for more from her. Great job on her debut!!!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review for Rockstar Book Muse.
June 17, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up
After reading the Shore Thing series and Enzo's Embrace, I knew I had to go back and read Jaclyn's other books as well. This is her debut book and, at least in some places, it shows. Regardless, I really enjoyed this story and I loved meeting a new set of characters for me to fall in love with.
After reading the Shore Thing series and Enzo's Embrace, I knew I had to go back and read Jaclyn's other books as well. This is her debut book and, at least in some places, it shows. Regardless, I really enjoyed this story and I loved meeting a new set of characters for me to fall in love with.
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February 23, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/23/2021)! 🎁
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April 8, 2024The thing is though, Owen is kind of a dick. And this will sound harsh to those who have a functional family, but I wish we could normalize not forgiving parents who treat us like trash. But hey, if Brody needs to believe that his mom went no contact to protect him (jfc are you kidding me?!) then who am I to stop him? But Gabe made me laugh, so if his story is next, I'll read it.
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