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Forestville Silver Foxes #2
Awakening the Sheriff
I thought we were building a friendship. Turns out I’m falling in love.
I’ve always wanted simple things. Become the local sheriff like my dad. Get married and have kids. Build a life in Forestville.
I’ve done all that…but it hasn’t turned out as expected.
At forty-eight, I’m single and co-parenting my two daughters with my ex-wife. My chances of meeting someone new in my small town are slim. Have I missed my chance at happiness?
When a new high school teacher moves into town, I recognize a kindred spirit. Keaton’s my age and a single dad too, and we hit it off, becoming friends.
The more time we spend together, the closer we grow. I love hanging out with him, and he seems to feel the same way.
When I realize our friendship has become something more, it’s the biggest shock of my life. I’ve never been attracted to men, but I can’t deny my feelings for Keaton.
But he and his son struggle to feel at home in Forestville, and I can’t ever see myself leaving, so what does that mean for us? Is there even an “us,” or am I delusional in thinking we have a future together?
Awakening the Sheriff is a small town, single dads romance with a bisexual awakening between two men who grow from friends to lovers. This gay romance novel is the second book in the Forestville Silver Foxes series, a contemporary small town MM romance series featuring hot silver foxes and the men who fall in love with them. Each book can be read as a standalone.
I’ve always wanted simple things. Become the local sheriff like my dad. Get married and have kids. Build a life in Forestville.
I’ve done all that…but it hasn’t turned out as expected.
At forty-eight, I’m single and co-parenting my two daughters with my ex-wife. My chances of meeting someone new in my small town are slim. Have I missed my chance at happiness?
When a new high school teacher moves into town, I recognize a kindred spirit. Keaton’s my age and a single dad too, and we hit it off, becoming friends.
The more time we spend together, the closer we grow. I love hanging out with him, and he seems to feel the same way.
When I realize our friendship has become something more, it’s the biggest shock of my life. I’ve never been attracted to men, but I can’t deny my feelings for Keaton.
But he and his son struggle to feel at home in Forestville, and I can’t ever see myself leaving, so what does that mean for us? Is there even an “us,” or am I delusional in thinking we have a future together?
Awakening the Sheriff is a small town, single dads romance with a bisexual awakening between two men who grow from friends to lovers. This gay romance novel is the second book in the Forestville Silver Foxes series, a contemporary small town MM romance series featuring hot silver foxes and the men who fall in love with them. Each book can be read as a standalone.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2023
729 people are currently reading
589 people want to read
About the author
Nora Phoenix
126 books2,212 followersWould you like the long or the short version of my bio?
The short? You got it.
I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.
How was that?
A little more detail? Gotcha.
I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.
My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self help and sociology.
Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.
Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/noras...
Wanna get first dibs on freebies, updates, sales, and more? Sign up for my newsletter (no spamming your inbox full…promise!) here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/
You can also stalk me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraFromBHR
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/
On Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-...
The short? You got it.
I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.
How was that?
A little more detail? Gotcha.
I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.
My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self help and sociology.
Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.
Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/noras...
Wanna get first dibs on freebies, updates, sales, and more? Sign up for my newsletter (no spamming your inbox full…promise!) here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/
You can also stalk me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraFromBHR
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/
On Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
September 1, 2023
⛔️spoilers
2.5 stars reluctantly rounded up.Sadly this was another example of a book that managed to be ALMOST good . And let’s just say I’m not a fan of the author but since I loved her White House Men series I keep a soft spot for her deep down in my heart and I’ll always love her for giving me Henley and Levar so I keep trying her books hoping I’ll find another mature characters and plot like in that book but this one here was not it. Although to be perfectly honest the first 40 or so percent were almost 5 stars because the slow burn was awesome, the characters older (48 and 50) and I loved how they got close. Also it promised a sexuality discovery (A REAL ONE) so there I was , excited to pick it up. And it started good, pretty damn excellent: the 50 bi divorced teacher and the 48 straight divorced sheriff 😍book orgasm in my opinion !!!! And they became friends and they were so cute I wanted to smother them with hugs (it gave me serious Tal Bauer You and me vibes. I LOVED that there was no lust at first sight for the straight guy, he really saw Keaton as any other guy , he felt nothing for him for a long while and the slow burn was excellent . And then there came the first strike that put me off : all the sheriff’s friends were queer . ALL OF THEM. I understand that she was preparing the field for her following books but that was like a bucket of cold water that cooled off my excitement lol . It’s highly improbable that the straight sheriff of a small town to be bosom buddies with a bunch of queer ppl. I mean, he didn’t have a single straight friend , they were all queer (including his brother ) . I’m pretty sure the town’s priest is pan too!!! Yeah, this shit takes the realism out of the book and makes the book a children’s book ,a fairy tale . I couldn’t take it seriously from there on. And then , at 50% mark it ALL went to hell. From “Auden (what kind of name is that??) didn’t feel anything for Keaton” to suddenly he feels vey attracted to him , out of the fucking blue …He talks to his friends about it, he confesses it to Keaton, he asks him to check “yes” or “no” if he feels the same, they warn each other that they want something serious , they decide to be boyfriends , they talk to the kids, the parents, the friends and that was that. All in the span of 20 pages. And everything was peachy, and well and happy and rainbow marshmallows. The parents were happy, the kids (except for one) were absolutely amazing (and they all seemed 14 going on 35) , the friends were happy (by the way, I don’t know how was the first book in the series but judging by how that couple was here ,my God, it must have been boring af . They were sooo dull.) And the rest of the book was used for Keaton’s brat’s problem and for sappiness and sex ( the sex is awkward so not even that saves the second part of the book). And since the book needed some kind of …event we have the totally OTT telenovela drama with Keaton’s wife and kid, where the wife is a one dimensional villain bitch , the kid is a bit dense for a 16 years old and a drama queen and Keaton is a doormat. Oh, and clichés galore (felt very preachy how the wife is all “bi ppl always cheat” 🙄 (she felt like a caricature) or how fervently Keaton was defending that listening to audiobooks IS reading . Yeah no shit,we knew that ,stop lecturing us !
As I said above, the side characters were boring and bland but I did like Fir quite a lot (I loved his graduation speech so much) and I’m curious about his story. I won’t like it probably because it’s finally the high time I learned that I don’t enjoy this author’s story execution -her style is very similar to that of Felice Stevens -sappiness, telenovela dramatism and childish dialogues) .
I’m also curious about Marnin because I have a feeling he was carrying a torch for Auden .
So 2.5 for the first 40% because they were really cute when they met.
2.5 stars reluctantly rounded up.Sadly this was another example of a book that managed to be ALMOST good . And let’s just say I’m not a fan of the author but since I loved her White House Men series I keep a soft spot for her deep down in my heart and I’ll always love her for giving me Henley and Levar so I keep trying her books hoping I’ll find another mature characters and plot like in that book but this one here was not it. Although to be perfectly honest the first 40 or so percent were almost 5 stars because the slow burn was awesome, the characters older (48 and 50) and I loved how they got close. Also it promised a sexuality discovery (A REAL ONE) so there I was , excited to pick it up. And it started good, pretty damn excellent: the 50 bi divorced teacher and the 48 straight divorced sheriff 😍book orgasm in my opinion !!!! And they became friends and they were so cute I wanted to smother them with hugs (it gave me serious Tal Bauer You and me vibes. I LOVED that there was no lust at first sight for the straight guy, he really saw Keaton as any other guy , he felt nothing for him for a long while and the slow burn was excellent . And then there came the first strike that put me off : all the sheriff’s friends were queer . ALL OF THEM. I understand that she was preparing the field for her following books but that was like a bucket of cold water that cooled off my excitement lol . It’s highly improbable that the straight sheriff of a small town to be bosom buddies with a bunch of queer ppl. I mean, he didn’t have a single straight friend , they were all queer (including his brother ) . I’m pretty sure the town’s priest is pan too!!! Yeah, this shit takes the realism out of the book and makes the book a children’s book ,a fairy tale . I couldn’t take it seriously from there on. And then , at 50% mark it ALL went to hell. From “Auden (what kind of name is that??) didn’t feel anything for Keaton” to suddenly he feels vey attracted to him , out of the fucking blue …He talks to his friends about it, he confesses it to Keaton, he asks him to check “yes” or “no” if he feels the same, they warn each other that they want something serious , they decide to be boyfriends , they talk to the kids, the parents, the friends and that was that. All in the span of 20 pages. And everything was peachy, and well and happy and rainbow marshmallows. The parents were happy, the kids (except for one) were absolutely amazing (and they all seemed 14 going on 35) , the friends were happy (by the way, I don’t know how was the first book in the series but judging by how that couple was here ,my God, it must have been boring af . They were sooo dull.) And the rest of the book was used for Keaton’s brat’s problem and for sappiness and sex ( the sex is awkward so not even that saves the second part of the book). And since the book needed some kind of …event we have the totally OTT telenovela drama with Keaton’s wife and kid, where the wife is a one dimensional villain bitch , the kid is a bit dense for a 16 years old and a drama queen and Keaton is a doormat. Oh, and clichés galore (felt very preachy how the wife is all “bi ppl always cheat” 🙄 (she felt like a caricature) or how fervently Keaton was defending that listening to audiobooks IS reading . Yeah no shit,we knew that ,stop lecturing us !
As I said above, the side characters were boring and bland but I did like Fir quite a lot (I loved his graduation speech so much) and I’m curious about his story. I won’t like it probably because it’s finally the high time I learned that I don’t enjoy this author’s story execution -her style is very similar to that of Felice Stevens -sappiness, telenovela dramatism and childish dialogues) .
I’m also curious about Marnin because I have a feeling he was carrying a torch for Auden .
So 2.5 for the first 40% because they were really cute when they met.
September 25, 2023
Awakening the Sheriff is a super entertaining read. The love story between Sheriff Auden and teacher Keaton, two bisexual (as it turns out), divorced men with families, really touched me.
But what really stood out was the family drama that I found totally interesting here.
Keaton's son Byron has some troubles with the law which is why Keaton and his ex-wife Mandy decide to move the family from the big city to a small country town named Forestville, where Keaton finds work as a teacher and Mandy can stay in nearby Seattle to work as a flight attendant and have the kids on some weekends.
While the family settles down in the small town, Byron hates it there and wants to go back to Atlanta. His efforts to poison Keaton's life in Forestville go so far that he once again gets in trouble with the law and local Sheriff Auden Frant gets involved.
Auden takes Byron under his wing and makes it his job to ensure that his overstressed father finds some social connections in his town as well.
Which leads to Keaton, who is bisexual but leans towards men, falling in love with Auden pretty early and Auden slowly and deliciously questioning his heterosexuality.
The romance is really cute and slow burn and the characters are very likeable and emotional.
At some point I was even accusing the dialogue of sounding like a self-help book because Auden sometimes acted like a psychotherapist, which struck me as odd with his military background. But apparently he majored in psychology in college so it seemed rational to me that he would act this way.
I was wondering a bit why both guys were around 50 with teenage kids when it would have made more sense to have them at least 10 years younger, but it doesn't take away anything from the story.
The resolution to this story was beautiful and the happy ending was only possible because we get to see Byron work through his issues. I loved how closely the entire family was involved in this story.
It will definitely stay with me as a pretty immersive read, and yes, Sheriff Auden is as great in bed as the cover art would have us assume, LOL.
I'm not sure I will pick up the other two books in this series about world famous male model twins who find love in Forestville. Auden's story seemed so down to earth and wholesome, I can't imagine dealing with male models in the same universe...
5 stars!
But what really stood out was the family drama that I found totally interesting here.
Keaton's son Byron has some troubles with the law which is why Keaton and his ex-wife Mandy decide to move the family from the big city to a small country town named Forestville, where Keaton finds work as a teacher and Mandy can stay in nearby Seattle to work as a flight attendant and have the kids on some weekends.
While the family settles down in the small town, Byron hates it there and wants to go back to Atlanta. His efforts to poison Keaton's life in Forestville go so far that he once again gets in trouble with the law and local Sheriff Auden Frant gets involved.
Auden takes Byron under his wing and makes it his job to ensure that his overstressed father finds some social connections in his town as well.
Which leads to Keaton, who is bisexual but leans towards men, falling in love with Auden pretty early and Auden slowly and deliciously questioning his heterosexuality.
The romance is really cute and slow burn and the characters are very likeable and emotional.
At some point I was even accusing the dialogue of sounding like a self-help book because Auden sometimes acted like a psychotherapist, which struck me as odd with his military background. But apparently he majored in psychology in college so it seemed rational to me that he would act this way.
I was wondering a bit why both guys were around 50 with teenage kids when it would have made more sense to have them at least 10 years younger, but it doesn't take away anything from the story.
The resolution to this story was beautiful and the happy ending was only possible because we get to see Byron work through his issues. I loved how closely the entire family was involved in this story.
It will definitely stay with me as a pretty immersive read, and yes, Sheriff Auden is as great in bed as the cover art would have us assume, LOL.
I'm not sure I will pick up the other two books in this series about world famous male model twins who find love in Forestville. Auden's story seemed so down to earth and wholesome, I can't imagine dealing with male models in the same universe...
5 stars!
February 2, 2024
Awakening the Sheriff is a romance between two single dads, one the sheriff and the other a teacher who's recently moved to Forestville. One is bi and the other has a bi awakening, hence the title. I really enjoyed the romance between Keaton and Auden. Their families play such an important and complex role in the story. It added something extra to solid romance.
I started with the second book in this series as the first one was only available next month on my Everand (is it possible to listen to too many audiobooks? no!), but I'll definitely be reading the others.
I started with the second book in this series as the first one was only available next month on my Everand (is it possible to listen to too many audiobooks? no!), but I'll definitely be reading the others.
April 8, 2025
Consider me disappointed 🫠 This was nowhere near as good as the first book, and I'm kind of mad about it 😂 Seriously, book one brought me so much joy that I started this one immediately after finishing it because I wanted to keep riding the happiness train as long as possible. Unfortunately, as soon as the train switched lines, things went off the rails to the tune of
This book had none of the same joy and happiness as book one 😔 In fact, this book was mostly miserable, if I'm being honest. There was just so much that went wrong. While book one was all sunshine and rainbows with almost no angst or drama, this book was nothing but angst and drama. Even though I liked Auden and Keaton as MCs, it felt like they were an afterthought in a lot of ways. Most of the book focused on the drama involving Keaton's oldest son, Byron, and that got old quick. I was so tired of hearing about Bryon by the end, I didn't care what happened. He was exhausting.
Because Auden and Keaton's relationship felt like a second string storyline, I couldn't even really buy into it 🤷🏼♀️ There was no buildup or pining or much of anything. Somehow, they went from friends to lovers in a blink, which was mighty weird considering Auden was supposedly straight as an arrow. Auden reminded me of this John Mulaney joke
Auden literally went from I've never even looked at another man to eating ass to I want to spend the rest of my life with this man I just met in the span of a couple weeks. More power to him, but it was honestly unbelievable in the context of what we were given in the story. If a story is done well, I can get behind even the most ridiculous of scenarios. This was NOT done well.
Even when Auden and Keaton did get together, I couldn't be bothered to care because it felt so unbelievable. There was almost no romance to speak of, and the spicy scenes were meh at best. I'm sure it's happened, but I don't recall any other book using "testicles" during the sex scenes (and more than once at that)! I can't think of a less attractive word to use in the heat of the moment 🤢 Was a simple "nuts" or "balls" not sufficient? 🤣🤣🤣
Anyway, I've decided to settle on 2* for this one simply because Micheal Dean did a great job with what he was given, and the audio was the only thing that saved this mess of a book 😅
This book had none of the same joy and happiness as book one 😔 In fact, this book was mostly miserable, if I'm being honest. There was just so much that went wrong. While book one was all sunshine and rainbows with almost no angst or drama, this book was nothing but angst and drama. Even though I liked Auden and Keaton as MCs, it felt like they were an afterthought in a lot of ways. Most of the book focused on the drama involving Keaton's oldest son, Byron, and that got old quick. I was so tired of hearing about Bryon by the end, I didn't care what happened. He was exhausting.
Because Auden and Keaton's relationship felt like a second string storyline, I couldn't even really buy into it 🤷🏼♀️ There was no buildup or pining or much of anything. Somehow, they went from friends to lovers in a blink, which was mighty weird considering Auden was supposedly straight as an arrow. Auden reminded me of this John Mulaney joke
Auden literally went from I've never even looked at another man to eating ass to I want to spend the rest of my life with this man I just met in the span of a couple weeks. More power to him, but it was honestly unbelievable in the context of what we were given in the story. If a story is done well, I can get behind even the most ridiculous of scenarios. This was NOT done well.
Even when Auden and Keaton did get together, I couldn't be bothered to care because it felt so unbelievable. There was almost no romance to speak of, and the spicy scenes were meh at best. I'm sure it's happened, but I don't recall any other book using "testicles" during the sex scenes (and more than once at that)! I can't think of a less attractive word to use in the heat of the moment 🤢 Was a simple "nuts" or "balls" not sufficient? 🤣🤣🤣
Anyway, I've decided to settle on 2* for this one simply because Micheal Dean did a great job with what he was given, and the audio was the only thing that saved this mess of a book 😅
August 29, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Ohh, I liked this even more than the first book in the series! There’s just something about men in their 40’s and 50’s finding love again that tickles my pickle. I freaking adore it. Two single dads as well? Take all of my money.
I loved my kids more than anything, but they could also cause me more pain than anything or anyone else.
The fact that Auden was so accepting and understanding about sexuality, and the fact that it transferred to his own sexual awakening was so endearing. Sure, he was a little shocked and surprised after 48 years as a straight man, but he was such a sweetheart about it. I gotta say I also love spicy scenes where the ‘bi awakened’ person experiences new things, and it was done really well in this one. Hot hot hot. The fact that Keaton is an english teacher, wears bow ties, doesn’t swear, loves poetry *and* loves getting pounded into the mattress (his words, not mine), definitely didn’t hurt.
Fifty years old, and I had a crush on a straight guy. Holy moly, when would I ever learn?
Most of the angst in this one comes from family matters/problems, both with Keaton’s (horrible) ex wife, and with one of his sons. I also appreciated how sensitively Nora wrote about Auden’s issues with fertility. I haven’t seen that in a book before. It’s often about a woman’s infertility, and I think normalizing and talking about the other side of things is important.
I would’ve loved to see more of Auden’s slow realization when he started getting feelings for Keaton. The change from good friends to having a crush (and being completely fine with it) felt the tiniest bit abrupt, but not so much that it was a problem. I guess I just wanted a bit more of the ‘butterflies stage’, if that makes any sense. The book was entirely charming and sweet, and I would definitely recommend it (especially if you read and loved You & Me by Tal Bauer).
Side note: I am so freaking curious about what was in the gift Ennio gave Auden for his birthday. Miss Nora, please tell us 😭
4.5 rounded up
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Friends to lovers
Bisexual awakening
Two single dads
Sheriff
Teacher
Family problems
Small town
Silver foxes (oh yes, both of them)
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Gaslighting ex spouse
Manipulative ex spouse
Biphobia
Homophobia
Mentions of underage drinking
Mentions of fertility issues
Rebelling teen
Child running away
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile characters, no switching on-page
[…] and some memories would be etched into my brain forever, sadly. Like the sight of that half-naked grandma searching for her dentures after a blowjob gone wrong. Lord almighty, if I’d been able to bleach my brain, I would’ve done it.
“To define reading as strictly processing written words is ableist. People who listen to audiobooks instead of reading them on paper or in e-book format are still reading.”
When you were sharing a table with two supermodels, it was hard not to feel a little depressed about your reflection in the mirror.
Ohh, I liked this even more than the first book in the series! There’s just something about men in their 40’s and 50’s finding love again that tickles my pickle. I freaking adore it. Two single dads as well? Take all of my money.
I loved my kids more than anything, but they could also cause me more pain than anything or anyone else.
The fact that Auden was so accepting and understanding about sexuality, and the fact that it transferred to his own sexual awakening was so endearing. Sure, he was a little shocked and surprised after 48 years as a straight man, but he was such a sweetheart about it. I gotta say I also love spicy scenes where the ‘bi awakened’ person experiences new things, and it was done really well in this one. Hot hot hot. The fact that Keaton is an english teacher, wears bow ties, doesn’t swear, loves poetry *and* loves getting pounded into the mattress (his words, not mine), definitely didn’t hurt.
Fifty years old, and I had a crush on a straight guy. Holy moly, when would I ever learn?
Most of the angst in this one comes from family matters/problems, both with Keaton’s (horrible) ex wife, and with one of his sons. I also appreciated how sensitively Nora wrote about Auden’s issues with fertility. I haven’t seen that in a book before. It’s often about a woman’s infertility, and I think normalizing and talking about the other side of things is important.
I would’ve loved to see more of Auden’s slow realization when he started getting feelings for Keaton. The change from good friends to having a crush (and being completely fine with it) felt the tiniest bit abrupt, but not so much that it was a problem. I guess I just wanted a bit more of the ‘butterflies stage’, if that makes any sense. The book was entirely charming and sweet, and I would definitely recommend it (especially if you read and loved You & Me by Tal Bauer).
Side note: I am so freaking curious about what was in the gift Ennio gave Auden for his birthday. Miss Nora, please tell us 😭
4.5 rounded up
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Friends to lovers
Bisexual awakening
Two single dads
Sheriff
Teacher
Family problems
Small town
Silver foxes (oh yes, both of them)
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Gaslighting ex spouse
Manipulative ex spouse
Biphobia
Homophobia
Mentions of underage drinking
Mentions of fertility issues
Rebelling teen
Child running away
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM drama: No
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile characters, no switching on-page
[…] and some memories would be etched into my brain forever, sadly. Like the sight of that half-naked grandma searching for her dentures after a blowjob gone wrong. Lord almighty, if I’d been able to bleach my brain, I would’ve done it.
“To define reading as strictly processing written words is ableist. People who listen to audiobooks instead of reading them on paper or in e-book format are still reading.”
When you were sharing a table with two supermodels, it was hard not to feel a little depressed about your reflection in the mirror.
January 1, 2024
Is this a bad Omen?? This book was so bad for me, didn't enjoy a single thing :/
December 26, 2023
I'm not a fan of the evil ex-wife trope at all but I think Nora handled it in an interesting way here which made it less about her being evil and more about the effect she was having on their eldest son.
It meant that the conflict points were different than the norm and involved Keaton having to navigate his way carefully through the obvious distress Byron was feeling while, at the same time, he was dealing with his blooming friendship with Auden.
There was also a nice contrast between the struggles Keaton had with his ex-wife and the loving and still supportive relationship Auden had with Trish.
As for the relationship between Keaton and Auden, that is wonderful all ways round. It's always a pleasure to see a mature pair find love as they tend to have less dramady and more conversation about their fears and feelings.
For Auden, his friendship with Keaton was also combined with a dawning awareness that he was attracted to him as well and I really loved the way Nora had him approach this without any conflict or overly angsty thoughts.
Theirs is a slow burn build up and I loved that they communicated well about their feelings and where they thought things were going. I loved how Auden supported Keaton with Byron, getting involved in his official role as Sheriff but never taking over the parenting aspect of things.
We get some great conversations, some lovely bisexual awakening and sexual exploration and we get a lovely ending with a genuinely earned HEA that feels solid, including a really fab Epilogue set a few years later.
This was another great addition to the series and I'm keen for more!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
It meant that the conflict points were different than the norm and involved Keaton having to navigate his way carefully through the obvious distress Byron was feeling while, at the same time, he was dealing with his blooming friendship with Auden.
There was also a nice contrast between the struggles Keaton had with his ex-wife and the loving and still supportive relationship Auden had with Trish.
As for the relationship between Keaton and Auden, that is wonderful all ways round. It's always a pleasure to see a mature pair find love as they tend to have less dramady and more conversation about their fears and feelings.
For Auden, his friendship with Keaton was also combined with a dawning awareness that he was attracted to him as well and I really loved the way Nora had him approach this without any conflict or overly angsty thoughts.
Theirs is a slow burn build up and I loved that they communicated well about their feelings and where they thought things were going. I loved how Auden supported Keaton with Byron, getting involved in his official role as Sheriff but never taking over the parenting aspect of things.
We get some great conversations, some lovely bisexual awakening and sexual exploration and we get a lovely ending with a genuinely earned HEA that feels solid, including a really fab Epilogue set a few years later.
This was another great addition to the series and I'm keen for more!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
January 15, 2026
This was better than the first one, but there’s just something off for me and I can’t figure it out.
(Am I picking books based off the silver fox daddies on the cover? MAYBE)
(Am I picking books based off the silver fox daddies on the cover? MAYBE)
August 19, 2023
Auden and Keaton’s relationship development was very organic and not forced. Their dynamic was intriguing to me.
I’m glad Auden got to the bottom of why Byron is such an angry kid. Calling him out on his homophobia was a good call. The Mom in the story is the root of a lot of his attitude. Poor kid. Mandy was terrible!
Being a parent isn’t for the faint of heart yikes! Especially when you have a bad partner like Mandy.
And in sharp contrast Auden’s relationship with Tricia. She was a great partner they just drifted apart. That infertility thing had me surprised but it makes sense how that would be a huge burden to any relationship.
I absolutely ADORE this book. Adult relationships and adults that actually have REAL conversations to solve problems and conflicts. SO needed in MM.
I loved this book and can hardly wait for the next one in the series! The waiting is the hardest part 😬
I’m glad Auden got to the bottom of why Byron is such an angry kid. Calling him out on his homophobia was a good call. The Mom in the story is the root of a lot of his attitude. Poor kid. Mandy was terrible!
Being a parent isn’t for the faint of heart yikes! Especially when you have a bad partner like Mandy.
And in sharp contrast Auden’s relationship with Tricia. She was a great partner they just drifted apart. That infertility thing had me surprised but it makes sense how that would be a huge burden to any relationship.
I absolutely ADORE this book. Adult relationships and adults that actually have REAL conversations to solve problems and conflicts. SO needed in MM.
I loved this book and can hardly wait for the next one in the series! The waiting is the hardest part 😬
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2024
After finishing book 1 in this series I was intrigued for the sheriff’s story in book 2. I listened to the audiobook again for this one and I’m really glad I did. This was such a great story about blending two families (both with kids) and I haven’t read too many stories with that dynamic.
Auden and Keaton were so great together. I love that they started out as friends and how they could relate to one another with being divorced and having teenagers. It was such a great way for their friendship to grow and feelings to develop! Loved the way they dealt with their family issues and loved their HEA!
I felt a little bad for Marnin at one point when Auden realized he had feelings for Keaton but I’m glad it didn’t turn into something super angsty. I loved the small town feel and how close these friends are again. I look forward to reading more in the series.
Auden and Keaton were so great together. I love that they started out as friends and how they could relate to one another with being divorced and having teenagers. It was such a great way for their friendship to grow and feelings to develop! Loved the way they dealt with their family issues and loved their HEA!
I felt a little bad for Marnin at one point when Auden realized he had feelings for Keaton but I’m glad it didn’t turn into something super angsty. I loved the small town feel and how close these friends are again. I look forward to reading more in the series.
July 20, 2025
I thought we were building a friendship. Turns out I’m falling in love. I’ve always wanted simple things. Become the local sheriff like my dad. Get married and have kids. Build a life in Forestville. I’ve done all that…but it hasn’t turned out as expected.
Keaton Perry has recently moved to the small town of Forestville looking for a fresh start for his teen-age sons. His 16-year-old, Byron, had started getting into trouble with the wrong crowd and Keaton and his ex-wife decided to move across the country from Atlanta to a small Washington town where hopefully Byron could find less trouble. Keaton is working as an English teacher at the local high school and his younger son, Milton, seems to be settling in, but Byron is having an incredibly hard time. He is sulky, surly, and making clear to Keaton that he is unhappy and he blames his father.
Auden Frant is the sheriff of Forestville and also a divorced father, with two teen-aged girls. After growing up in Forestville, Auden always knew he wanted to stay and take over as sheriff for his father. He has a great relationship with his girls, a close friendship with his ex-wife, and many friends. But he can’t help but feel that he's "stuck"...that his chances for future happiness with a partner are growing smaller now that he is nearing fifty.
Keaton and Auden meet when Byron gets into some trouble at school, it is a hard first encounter, but the men seem to find an easy connection. As the two begin to forge a friendship, both men are finding how much they enjoy one another’s company and quickly form a closer relationship. For Keaton, things are a little more challenging, as he can’t help but be attracted to Auden, but Auden has always identified as being straight. As they spend more time together, Auden begins to realize that he is attracted to Keaton in return. It is a surprising revelation for him but not an unwelcome one. But Keaton’s difficulties at home with his kids and his ex-wife continue to grow. Now, Keaton has to figure out a way to help his family and be there for his kids, and hope that there is still a chance for something with Auden.
Awakening the Sheriff is the second book in Nora Phoenix’s Forestville Silver Foxes series, following the excellent Renovating the Model. The series focuses on a group of friends in this small Washington town and features a new couple in each one. While the other characters appear across the books, they can all easily standalone.
The focus here is really two-fold, the developing relationship between Auden and Keaton, and Keaton working through issues at home. I liked this bisexual awakening story, but I did most of the time, hope that Keaton's ex-wife would drop off the face of the Earth. Still there were some nice moments as Auden is exploring being with a man for the first time, as well as coming out to friends and family.
Overall, I enjoyed revisiting the town of Forestville and this engaging group of friends. I appreciated watching Keaton and Auden talk through issues and be there to support one another, as well as seeing them find their unexpected love. It seems that Tomas’ book is up next, and I am really looking forward to continuing on with this series.
Keaton Perry has recently moved to the small town of Forestville looking for a fresh start for his teen-age sons. His 16-year-old, Byron, had started getting into trouble with the wrong crowd and Keaton and his ex-wife decided to move across the country from Atlanta to a small Washington town where hopefully Byron could find less trouble. Keaton is working as an English teacher at the local high school and his younger son, Milton, seems to be settling in, but Byron is having an incredibly hard time. He is sulky, surly, and making clear to Keaton that he is unhappy and he blames his father.
Auden Frant is the sheriff of Forestville and also a divorced father, with two teen-aged girls. After growing up in Forestville, Auden always knew he wanted to stay and take over as sheriff for his father. He has a great relationship with his girls, a close friendship with his ex-wife, and many friends. But he can’t help but feel that he's "stuck"...that his chances for future happiness with a partner are growing smaller now that he is nearing fifty.
Keaton and Auden meet when Byron gets into some trouble at school, it is a hard first encounter, but the men seem to find an easy connection. As the two begin to forge a friendship, both men are finding how much they enjoy one another’s company and quickly form a closer relationship. For Keaton, things are a little more challenging, as he can’t help but be attracted to Auden, but Auden has always identified as being straight. As they spend more time together, Auden begins to realize that he is attracted to Keaton in return. It is a surprising revelation for him but not an unwelcome one. But Keaton’s difficulties at home with his kids and his ex-wife continue to grow. Now, Keaton has to figure out a way to help his family and be there for his kids, and hope that there is still a chance for something with Auden.
Awakening the Sheriff is the second book in Nora Phoenix’s Forestville Silver Foxes series, following the excellent Renovating the Model. The series focuses on a group of friends in this small Washington town and features a new couple in each one. While the other characters appear across the books, they can all easily standalone.
The focus here is really two-fold, the developing relationship between Auden and Keaton, and Keaton working through issues at home. I liked this bisexual awakening story, but I did most of the time, hope that Keaton's ex-wife would drop off the face of the Earth. Still there were some nice moments as Auden is exploring being with a man for the first time, as well as coming out to friends and family.
Overall, I enjoyed revisiting the town of Forestville and this engaging group of friends. I appreciated watching Keaton and Auden talk through issues and be there to support one another, as well as seeing them find their unexpected love. It seems that Tomas’ book is up next, and I am really looking forward to continuing on with this series.
August 26, 2023
3.5
The first half was great. Keaton and Auden were cute together and had amazing chemistry. The problems with Keaton's son were interesting and understandable, though I will never get used to kids in books cussing at their parents cause where they do that at? Even Auden's daughters calling other kids dicks and assholes...ohh, okkkk. But overall the kids were great, first half was strong.
Things started to falter once Auden realized his attraction to Keaton. Everything just went way too fast. I understand the need to be transparent because Keaton was Auden's daughters' teacher, and Auden was the sheriff, but it literally went like,
"I like you, how do you feel?"
"I been liked you!"
" Ok, I'm not going to hide. "
"Me neither."
"Ok, so we'll tell the kids, our parents, friends, take out an ad in the Daily Sentinel..."
Ok scratch that last part lol. But they didn't just say we're dating. They were in a relationship. Umm what?? I think they had kissed once, maybe a BJ, or maybe had sex once, whatever it was. I don't even think they'd been on a proper date yet. The ex-wife stuff was ok (had a bit more purpose/depth to it than just the run-of-the-mill, ex-wife being a horrible person stuff, though there was definitely that as well), but her coming around for a bit and coming clean, just to go back to being horrible just so that we could be rid of her made no sense. Which brings me to the problem with this author and that things always get tied up a bit too easily. Keaton being so understanding re the Austen/Byron conversation was a bit much, the housing situation also being so easily solved...how convenient. I get that the author doesn't want to bog the book down, but it just makes things feel too flighty sometimes.
My favorite scenes were the convo between Marnin and Auden about Marnin staying at Tiago's house now when he's in town - that had some grit - and Auden's interactions with Byron. I did empathize with Keaton's parental struggles; he was a great dad. I loved that the kids lucked out with cool new grandparents but, again, the calling them grandpa and grandma, without even discussing it with them, until after Keaton had already referred to them that way in their presence, was part of whole 'perfect' thing I roll my eyes about. It would have been a better discussion between Austen's dad and the boys.
Still, I enjoyed this book despite not liking poetry in books or bowties - except on tuxes - on grown men lol, polka dot at that (shudders). Seriously though, Keaton was good people and he and Austin were solid. Sex was hot.
I guess Tomas and Fir are next. I'm really looking forward to Marnin's book. That man needs some love!
The first half was great. Keaton and Auden were cute together and had amazing chemistry. The problems with Keaton's son were interesting and understandable, though I will never get used to kids in books cussing at their parents cause where they do that at? Even Auden's daughters calling other kids dicks and assholes...ohh, okkkk. But overall the kids were great, first half was strong.
Things started to falter once Auden realized his attraction to Keaton. Everything just went way too fast. I understand the need to be transparent because Keaton was Auden's daughters' teacher, and Auden was the sheriff, but it literally went like,
"I like you, how do you feel?"
"I been liked you!"
" Ok, I'm not going to hide. "
"Me neither."
"Ok, so we'll tell the kids, our parents, friends, take out an ad in the Daily Sentinel..."
Ok scratch that last part lol. But they didn't just say we're dating. They were in a relationship. Umm what?? I think they had kissed once, maybe a BJ, or maybe had sex once, whatever it was. I don't even think they'd been on a proper date yet. The ex-wife stuff was ok (had a bit more purpose/depth to it than just the run-of-the-mill, ex-wife being a horrible person stuff, though there was definitely that as well), but her coming around for a bit and coming clean, just to go back to being horrible just so that we could be rid of her made no sense. Which brings me to the problem with this author and that things always get tied up a bit too easily. Keaton being so understanding re the Austen/Byron conversation was a bit much, the housing situation also being so easily solved...how convenient. I get that the author doesn't want to bog the book down, but it just makes things feel too flighty sometimes.
My favorite scenes were the convo between Marnin and Auden about Marnin staying at Tiago's house now when he's in town - that had some grit - and Auden's interactions with Byron. I did empathize with Keaton's parental struggles; he was a great dad. I loved that the kids lucked out with cool new grandparents but, again, the calling them grandpa and grandma, without even discussing it with them, until after Keaton had already referred to them that way in their presence, was part of whole 'perfect' thing I roll my eyes about. It would have been a better discussion between Austen's dad and the boys.
Still, I enjoyed this book despite not liking poetry in books or bowties - except on tuxes - on grown men lol, polka dot at that (shudders). Seriously though, Keaton was good people and he and Austin were solid. Sex was hot.
I guess Tomas and Fir are next. I'm really looking forward to Marnin's book. That man needs some love!
December 30, 2023
Don’t think this author is for me.
The dialogue felt too polite. The plot with the gas lighting ex wife was weird, she was being manipulative one minute and the next she decided to come clean to the kids ? 🤷🏻♀️
We get introduced to one MC when he’s waking up next to his hook up and thinking about how good he was dicked down. I prefer my stories to not have the MCs with others on page, even if it’s just the aftermath 🤷🏻♀️
This book had me so bored I actually put it down a few times to do chores around the house. Either i’m going into a slump or this one just wasn’t hitting the spot so I decided to call it around 86%
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. Just because it aligns or doesn’t align with my tastes does not mean it’ll be the same for you. Try reading it for yourself ! ❀
The dialogue felt too polite. The plot with the gas lighting ex wife was weird, she was being manipulative one minute and the next she decided to come clean to the kids ? 🤷🏻♀️
We get introduced to one MC when he’s waking up next to his hook up and thinking about how good he was dicked down. I prefer my stories to not have the MCs with others on page, even if it’s just the aftermath 🤷🏻♀️
This book had me so bored I actually put it down a few times to do chores around the house. Either i’m going into a slump or this one just wasn’t hitting the spot so I decided to call it around 86%
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. Just because it aligns or doesn’t align with my tastes does not mean it’ll be the same for you. Try reading it for yourself ! ❀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2023
I wanted to like this book, but it was just dragging on and there was just no real heart. The author tried but failed. If you didn't know the ages of the characters you would think that you were reading about late teen early twenties characters. It just didn't add up. Middle age men just don't talk about stuff like these characters did. The bi-awakening just came out of the blue and wasn't spoken about internally.
September 1, 2023
This was not bad but it wasn't anything great either. Plus too much drama with kids. I hate when that's the only plot driving a book forward.
March 22, 2024
4.25 🌟
February 14, 2024
Molto carino!!🧡
September 19, 2024
Disfruté mucho leer este libro es un libro cute con todos los tropes que me gustan para pasar un buen rato.
August 27, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Awakening the Sheriff is the second book in Nora Phoenix’s Forestville Silver Foxes series, following the excellent Renovating the Model. The series focuses on a group of friends in this small town and this story features a new couple in Auden and Keaton. While the other guys appear here and there are connections across the books, this story will stand alone fine if you want to jump in here. I really enjoyed revisiting this town and these characters. One of the nice things about a small town series is getting to know the town and the people and I liked getting a chance to reconnect with Forestville and this group of men. Phoenix does a nice job balancing things, giving us time with the other side characters, but still focusing on Auden and Keaton. I also really like that this is a group of older men who have different life experiences than younger men might, which makes for some interesting stories.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Awakening the Sheriff is the second book in Nora Phoenix’s Forestville Silver Foxes series, following the excellent Renovating the Model. The series focuses on a group of friends in this small town and this story features a new couple in Auden and Keaton. While the other guys appear here and there are connections across the books, this story will stand alone fine if you want to jump in here. I really enjoyed revisiting this town and these characters. One of the nice things about a small town series is getting to know the town and the people and I liked getting a chance to reconnect with Forestville and this group of men. Phoenix does a nice job balancing things, giving us time with the other side characters, but still focusing on Auden and Keaton. I also really like that this is a group of older men who have different life experiences than younger men might, which makes for some interesting stories.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
September 1, 2023
I liked the first book of this series, but this one? I did love this book so much, it was amazing and so beautiful. This series keeps improving with each book.
First, I love that both MCs are in their 40-50's. They are both divorced, have kids and (sort of) settled lives. I enjoy stories with mature characters because it shows that people can fall in love at any age. Also, the situations and issues the MCs encounter are different to those of younger age.
Auden and Keaton connected from the beginning and I liked that very much. They became friends first and eventually they realised there was so much more going on between them. It was beautiful witnessing them fall in love and discovering their feelings for each other. Auden's bi-awakening was portrayed in a realistic way and his doubts felt true.
Keaton's situation regarding his son broke my heart. He tried so hard because he truly loved his children, he just didn't know what he was fighting against. The support that Auden provided was everything for him, they just made an amazing couple where they offered understanding, love and a shoulder to rely on to each other. I can't forget to mention the communication that always happened between the MCs, how they talked to each other every time there was something that was bothering one of them. This is another thing that made me love this novel so much.
I like how the author described Keaton's son's behaviour and how difficult it can be to deal with teenagers. I also found wonderful the way it was talked about bisexuality showing that there are many misunderstandings and wrong assumptions about it. Like I said at the beginning, I fell in love with this book because it has so many wonderful tropes and important topics that were excelently handled.
First, I love that both MCs are in their 40-50's. They are both divorced, have kids and (sort of) settled lives. I enjoy stories with mature characters because it shows that people can fall in love at any age. Also, the situations and issues the MCs encounter are different to those of younger age.
Auden and Keaton connected from the beginning and I liked that very much. They became friends first and eventually they realised there was so much more going on between them. It was beautiful witnessing them fall in love and discovering their feelings for each other. Auden's bi-awakening was portrayed in a realistic way and his doubts felt true.
Keaton's situation regarding his son broke my heart. He tried so hard because he truly loved his children, he just didn't know what he was fighting against. The support that Auden provided was everything for him, they just made an amazing couple where they offered understanding, love and a shoulder to rely on to each other. I can't forget to mention the communication that always happened between the MCs, how they talked to each other every time there was something that was bothering one of them. This is another thing that made me love this novel so much.
I like how the author described Keaton's son's behaviour and how difficult it can be to deal with teenagers. I also found wonderful the way it was talked about bisexuality showing that there are many misunderstandings and wrong assumptions about it. Like I said at the beginning, I fell in love with this book because it has so many wonderful tropes and important topics that were excelently handled.
August 27, 2023
Back to Forestville! I've really enjoyed this series so far, I love mature mc's finding their big love!
Auden and Keaton are such a brilliant match, and I adored getting to watch them fall in love. Auden, the sheriff, is a divorced dad who happens to be a workaholic. But when Keaton, the bow tie wearing English teacher gets in Auden's orbit - the connection and the chemistry just couldn't be fought.
I loved that both mc's were divorced dads, and let me tell you, that brought it's own drama to the story.
This was more than a wham bam love story, though. Since both Auden and Keaton are almost 50, they have real-life stuff happening all over the place and their own baggage and histories that need to be navigated before they can fall into their hea.
I'm gonna be careful about the wording here to avoid spoilers: but I loved how the biphobia and homophobia [from different characters] was navigated. The stigma that bisexual folks go through is absurd, and Nora handled it all so beautifully.
There were a lot of family dynamics that were happening in this story, which happens when each main character has an ex - and teenage children. Auden and Keaton were both more than Dads, and more than their jobs - they were brilliantly fleshed out characters, and I just loved them.
If you're looking for a smutty book heavy on the spice, this isn't it. But if you're looking for a romance that felt real and characters that deserve some peace and happiness , this is it!
Auden and Keaton are such a brilliant match, and I adored getting to watch them fall in love. Auden, the sheriff, is a divorced dad who happens to be a workaholic. But when Keaton, the bow tie wearing English teacher gets in Auden's orbit - the connection and the chemistry just couldn't be fought.
I loved that both mc's were divorced dads, and let me tell you, that brought it's own drama to the story.
This was more than a wham bam love story, though. Since both Auden and Keaton are almost 50, they have real-life stuff happening all over the place and their own baggage and histories that need to be navigated before they can fall into their hea.
I'm gonna be careful about the wording here to avoid spoilers: but I loved how the biphobia and homophobia [from different characters] was navigated. The stigma that bisexual folks go through is absurd, and Nora handled it all so beautifully.
There were a lot of family dynamics that were happening in this story, which happens when each main character has an ex - and teenage children. Auden and Keaton were both more than Dads, and more than their jobs - they were brilliantly fleshed out characters, and I just loved them.
If you're looking for a smutty book heavy on the spice, this isn't it. But if you're looking for a romance that felt real and characters that deserve some peace and happiness , this is it!
March 24, 2024
The story wasn't bad, but the romance was not really developed enough for me, they met, they fell, the end. Meh
September 8, 2024
Audiobook 4 stars!
Silver fox single daddies. I loved the community support in this book. The relationship felt a little rushed.
Silver fox single daddies. I loved the community support in this book. The relationship felt a little rushed.
September 11, 2023
I absolutely loved book 1 in this series so I was really excited for this one. While I did end up liking this there were a few things that bothered me.
I wanna start by saying that once again I did really like the setting. I love small town romances! I also like this friend group. They are an interesting and eclectic bunch of guys. I also liked the main plot point here between Keaton and his son. It held my attention and my eyes were honestly tearing up at a couple of the low points for Keaton.
All that being said, I do think that the drama with Keaton and Byron really did overshadow the romance. So while yes I did find it interesting, for me it also just pulled too much of the focus way. And maybe that wouldn't have been a problem if the romance was more compelling.
I like the fact that Auden and Keaton got to know one another and became friends first but the main problem for me was that there was no build up to the actual romantic feelings bit. One moment Auden felt nothing but platonic friendship for Keaton and the next moment they are boyfriends. It's like Nora got 50% into writing the book and went "oops Auden still thinks he's straight." Like I said I liked the slow build up but man the romance went from 0 to 60 so fast it gave me whiplash. I mean they hadn't even kissed yet and they are sitting there talking about being boyfriends and telling their kids and families and the whole dang town. Like WHOA guys hold on! You skipped a few steps. Maybe go on a few dates before you pick out china patterns. Which made the romance kinda hard to get on board with. Add on to that the whole Byron mess taking up so much of the page time and I dunno, I just couldn't get into the actual romance.
I will say that I did still like the book. I just wanted more from it. But it was well written and Micheal Dean did a great job narrating the audiobook. I'm also still looking forward to the next book in the series and now I'm dying to know who Fir ends up with!
I wanna start by saying that once again I did really like the setting. I love small town romances! I also like this friend group. They are an interesting and eclectic bunch of guys. I also liked the main plot point here between Keaton and his son. It held my attention and my eyes were honestly tearing up at a couple of the low points for Keaton.
All that being said, I do think that the drama with Keaton and Byron really did overshadow the romance. So while yes I did find it interesting, for me it also just pulled too much of the focus way. And maybe that wouldn't have been a problem if the romance was more compelling.
I like the fact that Auden and Keaton got to know one another and became friends first but the main problem for me was that there was no build up to the actual romantic feelings bit. One moment Auden felt nothing but platonic friendship for Keaton and the next moment they are boyfriends. It's like Nora got 50% into writing the book and went "oops Auden still thinks he's straight." Like I said I liked the slow build up but man the romance went from 0 to 60 so fast it gave me whiplash. I mean they hadn't even kissed yet and they are sitting there talking about being boyfriends and telling their kids and families and the whole dang town. Like WHOA guys hold on! You skipped a few steps. Maybe go on a few dates before you pick out china patterns. Which made the romance kinda hard to get on board with. Add on to that the whole Byron mess taking up so much of the page time and I dunno, I just couldn't get into the actual romance.
I will say that I did still like the book. I just wanted more from it. But it was well written and Micheal Dean did a great job narrating the audiobook. I'm also still looking forward to the next book in the series and now I'm dying to know who Fir ends up with!
October 13, 2025
Update 2025, 2nd read
I loved this as much as I did the first time around.
.....
Did I start and finish this on a whim? Yes, yes I did.
Was it just THIS good?
Yes, it was.
I've been dying to find a new author to get obsessed with and have more KUb books to read and while this was definitely a cover buy, I have no regrets. Now off to read them in order 🤣
I loved this as much as I did the first time around.
.....
Did I start and finish this on a whim? Yes, yes I did.
Was it just THIS good?
Yes, it was.
I've been dying to find a new author to get obsessed with and have more KUb books to read and while this was definitely a cover buy, I have no regrets. Now off to read them in order 🤣
December 19, 2024
These people don’t talk like real people. The dialogue are very bad and make the book feel off. The relationship feels kinda rush and all the drama with the ex wife is so annoying
But as always with Nora the smut is good and when the relationship is on ride the two guy are perfect so…
But as always with Nora the smut is good and when the relationship is on ride the two guy are perfect so…
February 6, 2024
Book: ★★★★★
Audio: ★★★★☆
Town Sheriff × English Teacher
Friends to Lovers
Slow Burn
Bi Awakening
Hurt/Comfort
Single Dads
Small Town Romance
When I first read the prologue of the book, I wasn't really interested in diving into the story. Plus, Tiago's story was just average and didn't motivate me to keep going. So, I decided to skip to Book 3, Tomas's story instead. But now that I've gone back to Book 2, Auden's story, all I can think is, "Why didn't I read it sooner?"
This book is so damn good! I absolutely love it! And yup, just like the other comments said, it's all about family. Two divorced single dads trying their best for their kids and hoping to find love again. Luckily, they find each other as allies, best friends, and the loves of their lives. Both main characters are freaking adorable. Auden is gentle and loyal, like a golden retriever. And Keaton might seem vulnerable on the outside, but he's actually super strong-willed. Most importantly, they're both amazing fathers who love their kids unconditionally.
What I really dig about this book is that it's not just about their bittersweet journey of Bi-awakening, but it's also packed with gripping family drama. Those "falling-for-a-straight-guy" kind of plots always get me. The way the author depicts their emotions so delicately makes the love story even more heartwarming. Though there are not many, the sex scenes are hot-steamy and sensual. And at the same time, the tension and drama in Keaton's family keep you hooked throughout the whole damn book. You get to enjoy this beautiful love story between the two guys while wondering about the truth behind all the family drama. Trust me, there's not a single dull moment. The storytelling is freaking excellent!
The audio is actually pretty good too. Finally, I can match the voices to the images in my head.
這次跳回鄉村大叔系列第二集，小鎮警長Auden的故事。當時看完簡介之後我就默默地跳過這一集，心想著離婚老男人帶娃談戀愛的故事一定很無聊，加上第一集的年齡差故事作者也寫的一般般，我當時就沒抱太大期待。但結果太令人意外了！我覺得這一集好好看誒，是目前三集裡面最好看的一集了。
剛離婚的英語老師Keaton為了讓叛逆的兒子們有個健康的成長環境千里迢迢搬來這個西雅圖彗星小鎮。兒子叛逆不改到處闖禍驚動了警長Auden。另一方面，作為小鎮的新居民，Keaton仍在努力適應，Auden都看在眼裡。於是熱情好客的Auden便與Keaton主動交上了朋友。
兩人一起砌Lego，聽詩朗誦，遠足談心，交流單親爸爸的育兒心得，感情日益增長。Openly Bi的Keaton對Auden一見鍾情。Auden當了一輩子直男，雖然與前妻和平分手，但也從沒想過換男人做對象。簡而言之，本文也是“愛上直男”的老梗，但作者的內心描寫很細膩，梗老卻不俗。而且兩個主角的人設都非常討喜，既是好爸爸也是好伴侶。尤其是Auden，大愛於心卻又細心體貼，儼然是完美的金毛犬。
正如大部分評論所言，本文有很多關於家庭的情節：崩潰邊緣的父子關係，搬弄是非的恐同母親，抓馬背後的真相是被傷害的深櫃少年。我覺得Keaton的家庭抓馬才是本文的主故事線，故事線與感情線的相輔相成。Keaton為了兒子的成長心力交瘁是Auden與Keaton相識的契機。Auden幫助Keaton挽救家庭原本只出於善意，但隨後在相處之中漸漸愛上這位堅強的父親，由朋友到情人的轉變隨著故事的發展水到渠成。最後Keaton與兒子的關係得以修復，兩個家庭也順利融合。全文下來並沒有任何冷場的地方，處處都有看頭。
有聲書我也覺得挺不錯。雖然Michael Dean還是有點用力過猛，但這次聲線控制得很好，至少人物性格與聲線是匹配的。
最後一本應該是我行我素口無遮攔的Marnin，我還是蠻期待的！
Audio: ★★★★☆
Town Sheriff × English Teacher
Friends to Lovers
Slow Burn
Bi Awakening
Hurt/Comfort
Single Dads
Small Town Romance
When I first read the prologue of the book, I wasn't really interested in diving into the story. Plus, Tiago's story was just average and didn't motivate me to keep going. So, I decided to skip to Book 3, Tomas's story instead. But now that I've gone back to Book 2, Auden's story, all I can think is, "Why didn't I read it sooner?"
This book is so damn good! I absolutely love it! And yup, just like the other comments said, it's all about family. Two divorced single dads trying their best for their kids and hoping to find love again. Luckily, they find each other as allies, best friends, and the loves of their lives. Both main characters are freaking adorable. Auden is gentle and loyal, like a golden retriever. And Keaton might seem vulnerable on the outside, but he's actually super strong-willed. Most importantly, they're both amazing fathers who love their kids unconditionally.
What I really dig about this book is that it's not just about their bittersweet journey of Bi-awakening, but it's also packed with gripping family drama. Those "falling-for-a-straight-guy" kind of plots always get me. The way the author depicts their emotions so delicately makes the love story even more heartwarming. Though there are not many, the sex scenes are hot-steamy and sensual. And at the same time, the tension and drama in Keaton's family keep you hooked throughout the whole damn book. You get to enjoy this beautiful love story between the two guys while wondering about the truth behind all the family drama. Trust me, there's not a single dull moment. The storytelling is freaking excellent!
The audio is actually pretty good too. Finally, I can match the voices to the images in my head.
這次跳回鄉村大叔系列第二集，小鎮警長Auden的故事。當時看完簡介之後我就默默地跳過這一集，心想著離婚老男人帶娃談戀愛的故事一定很無聊，加上第一集的年齡差故事作者也寫的一般般，我當時就沒抱太大期待。但結果太令人意外了！我覺得這一集好好看誒，是目前三集裡面最好看的一集了。
剛離婚的英語老師Keaton為了讓叛逆的兒子們有個健康的成長環境千里迢迢搬來這個西雅圖彗星小鎮。兒子叛逆不改到處闖禍驚動了警長Auden。另一方面，作為小鎮的新居民，Keaton仍在努力適應，Auden都看在眼裡。於是熱情好客的Auden便與Keaton主動交上了朋友。
兩人一起砌Lego，聽詩朗誦，遠足談心，交流單親爸爸的育兒心得，感情日益增長。Openly Bi的Keaton對Auden一見鍾情。Auden當了一輩子直男，雖然與前妻和平分手，但也從沒想過換男人做對象。簡而言之，本文也是“愛上直男”的老梗，但作者的內心描寫很細膩，梗老卻不俗。而且兩個主角的人設都非常討喜，既是好爸爸也是好伴侶。尤其是Auden，大愛於心卻又細心體貼，儼然是完美的金毛犬。
正如大部分評論所言，本文有很多關於家庭的情節：崩潰邊緣的父子關係，搬弄是非的恐同母親，抓馬背後的真相是被傷害的深櫃少年。我覺得Keaton的家庭抓馬才是本文的主故事線，故事線與感情線的相輔相成。Keaton為了兒子的成長心力交瘁是Auden與Keaton相識的契機。Auden幫助Keaton挽救家庭原本只出於善意，但隨後在相處之中漸漸愛上這位堅強的父親，由朋友到情人的轉變隨著故事的發展水到渠成。最後Keaton與兒子的關係得以修復，兩個家庭也順利融合。全文下來並沒有任何冷場的地方，處處都有看頭。
有聲書我也覺得挺不錯。雖然Michael Dean還是有點用力過猛，但這次聲線控制得很好，至少人物性格與聲線是匹配的。
最後一本應該是我行我素口無遮攔的Marnin，我還是蠻期待的！
August 27, 2023
Y'ALL!!! This book right here!? DEVOURED!
I do not know what happened but I picked this up on a whim, even though I am reading ten other books do not judge me, and I loved it. I did not read the first one, I just read the blurb on this book and was like why not?
Auden and Keaton are amazing characters. They have such depth to who they are individually and as a couple. They both understand each other even though they have different interests and I just felt the chemistry and the attraction through the pages. Auden was a sweetheart who knew how to comfort and be Keaton's anchor through the storm. They progressed at a good rate, building a friendship, and then to have this natural course to becoming a couple was lovely. I think Keaton described Auden perfectly, a man who can show vulnerability and honesty but yet be confident was confident at the same time. We love that for a silver fox.
KEATON WAS GOING THROUGH IT! I think this is the first book in a long time, maybe since You and Me by Tal Bauer, that I felt really grasped the angst, the frustration, and the pain of raising a child that was just going through so many emotions and you do not know how to help them. Keaton was a loving father but for certain reasons, he could not reach his son Byron. How the author wrote this relationship was amazing, every bit of angst then growth was so stressful but yet wonderful to read, and then to have a happy ending for everyone was amazing.
Overall, I could not be more happy with this story. I need the story on Fir and Byron's spinoff story. When you need a good book to read, go ahead and give this a try.
I do not know what happened but I picked this up on a whim, even though I am reading ten other books do not judge me, and I loved it. I did not read the first one, I just read the blurb on this book and was like why not?
Auden and Keaton are amazing characters. They have such depth to who they are individually and as a couple. They both understand each other even though they have different interests and I just felt the chemistry and the attraction through the pages. Auden was a sweetheart who knew how to comfort and be Keaton's anchor through the storm. They progressed at a good rate, building a friendship, and then to have this natural course to becoming a couple was lovely. I think Keaton described Auden perfectly, a man who can show vulnerability and honesty but yet be confident was confident at the same time. We love that for a silver fox.
KEATON WAS GOING THROUGH IT! I think this is the first book in a long time, maybe since You and Me by Tal Bauer, that I felt really grasped the angst, the frustration, and the pain of raising a child that was just going through so many emotions and you do not know how to help them. Keaton was a loving father but for certain reasons, he could not reach his son Byron. How the author wrote this relationship was amazing, every bit of angst then growth was so stressful but yet wonderful to read, and then to have a happy ending for everyone was amazing.
Overall, I could not be more happy with this story. I need the story on Fir and Byron's spinoff story. When you need a good book to read, go ahead and give this a try.
August 28, 2023
There’s so much to love about the Forestville Silver Foxes, and the second book in the series continues to bring all the small town friendship and feels. This low angst romance between two single dads is an absolute delight!
The entire premise of this series is mature MCs finding their HEA later in life, and this time it’s sexy sheriff Auden and new English teacher Keaton’s turn. I love how these two are just ordinary, small town guys. No movie stars or billionaires. Just two hardworking single dads trying to move on from divorce, raise their kids the best they can, and maybe find a little happiness for themselves.
Unfortunate circumstances bring Auden & Keaton together, and the two become fast friends. I enjoyed how their relationship develops from friends to more, including that they’re able to separate personal from professional when things get messy. Much of the drama and tension in this story occurs outside of their romantic relationship which is a really nice change of pace and keeps things low angst. It’s in part thanks to the comfort and safety of their friendship that Auden has the space to explore his sexuality and his new feelings for Keaton, and I enjoyed seeing them work together and support one another as a couple.
Let’s talk about how maturity has its perks. One of the sexiest things about this book for me is the communication and mutual respect. Sure, Keaton and Auden have their insecurities, but for the most part, they know who they are and what they bring to the table. Being able to listen, trust each other, and talk through their worries and concerns respectfully are just more ways their relationship works.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story, and I recommend it for anyone who's looking for a quick, sweet small town read. I'm excited to see what's next in the series when Tomás finally meets his match.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
The entire premise of this series is mature MCs finding their HEA later in life, and this time it’s sexy sheriff Auden and new English teacher Keaton’s turn. I love how these two are just ordinary, small town guys. No movie stars or billionaires. Just two hardworking single dads trying to move on from divorce, raise their kids the best they can, and maybe find a little happiness for themselves.
Unfortunate circumstances bring Auden & Keaton together, and the two become fast friends. I enjoyed how their relationship develops from friends to more, including that they’re able to separate personal from professional when things get messy. Much of the drama and tension in this story occurs outside of their romantic relationship which is a really nice change of pace and keeps things low angst. It’s in part thanks to the comfort and safety of their friendship that Auden has the space to explore his sexuality and his new feelings for Keaton, and I enjoyed seeing them work together and support one another as a couple.
Let’s talk about how maturity has its perks. One of the sexiest things about this book for me is the communication and mutual respect. Sure, Keaton and Auden have their insecurities, but for the most part, they know who they are and what they bring to the table. Being able to listen, trust each other, and talk through their worries and concerns respectfully are just more ways their relationship works.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story, and I recommend it for anyone who's looking for a quick, sweet small town read. I'm excited to see what's next in the series when Tomás finally meets his match.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
February 4, 2024
Auden et Keaton avec un Culomètre à 🍑🍆
Je ne sais pas vous mais je trouve les tomes deux toujours meilleurs et ici ça ne rate pas.
Auden est le Chérif de Forestville, divorcé et père de deux filles, il se noie dans son travail. Quand il fait la rencontre de Keaton, nouveau professeur d'anglais et père célibataire divorcé avec deux garçons, c'est le coup de foudre amical !
Je pense avoir un faible pour les personnages ayant un entourage toxique, il deviendra forcément intéressant s'il est bien développé ! Et, comme c'est du Nora Phoenix, et bien le personnage de Keaton tape dans le mille.
J'ai beaucoup aimé tout ce développement entre Keaton et ses problèmes avec son fils Byron, adolescent de 16 ans en complète rébellion, qui ne supporte pas la petite ville et qui tient rancoeur à son père d'avoir déménagé. On apprend à connaître Keaton avec ses soucis de parents et en opposition totale avec Auden, pour qui la séparation a été une réussite puisqu'il s'entend très bien avec son ex femme (même si vous verrez que ce n'est pas tout rose non plus).
Les deux hommes vont d'abord devenir ami en apportant à l'autre ce qu'il leur manquait dans leur vie, le côté de cette relation est très doux et bienveillant, ce qui tranche totalement avec les problèmes familiaux de Keaton. Une véritable bouffée d'air frais qu'on prend avec eux par leur moment à deux !
Bref, un super tome 2 que j'ai adoré et que je relirais avec plaisir plus tard !
Je ne sais pas vous mais je trouve les tomes deux toujours meilleurs et ici ça ne rate pas.
Auden est le Chérif de Forestville, divorcé et père de deux filles, il se noie dans son travail. Quand il fait la rencontre de Keaton, nouveau professeur d'anglais et père célibataire divorcé avec deux garçons, c'est le coup de foudre amical !
Je pense avoir un faible pour les personnages ayant un entourage toxique, il deviendra forcément intéressant s'il est bien développé ! Et, comme c'est du Nora Phoenix, et bien le personnage de Keaton tape dans le mille.
J'ai beaucoup aimé tout ce développement entre Keaton et ses problèmes avec son fils Byron, adolescent de 16 ans en complète rébellion, qui ne supporte pas la petite ville et qui tient rancoeur à son père d'avoir déménagé. On apprend à connaître Keaton avec ses soucis de parents et en opposition totale avec Auden, pour qui la séparation a été une réussite puisqu'il s'entend très bien avec son ex femme (même si vous verrez que ce n'est pas tout rose non plus).
Les deux hommes vont d'abord devenir ami en apportant à l'autre ce qu'il leur manquait dans leur vie, le côté de cette relation est très doux et bienveillant, ce qui tranche totalement avec les problèmes familiaux de Keaton. Une véritable bouffée d'air frais qu'on prend avec eux par leur moment à deux !
Bref, un super tome 2 que j'ai adoré et que je relirais avec plaisir plus tard !
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