What do you think?
Rate this book
Fixer Brothers Construction Co. #5
Bear's Best Friend
He’s a ray of sunshine. I’m a loner lumberjack. We don’t make sense……But my straight best friend keeps ending up in my bed.
Sawyer Hendricks is the best friend I’ve ever had—the Goose to my Moose, and the shoulder I’ve cried on even though I’m not the crying type. The difference between us? Sawyer brightens any room in an instant, and I’m the gruff guy wearing flannel who’d rather be alone.
My first mistake was admitting to Sawyer that I couldn’t remember the last time I’d been kissed--because the punk leaned over and kissed me, right then and there.
…And then he ended up in my bed. Just friends, right?
Now I’ve gotten a taste, and he wants another taste of me, too. But no matter how hot it is when we’re together, Sawyer’s straight. This is innocent fun for him, and I’ve long since learned to shove my true feelings for him where the sun don’t shine. I’m no good at feelings, anyway.
He’s renovating the brewery where I work, and now we’re in closer contact than ever. My heart’s been shattered before, and there’s no chance I’ll let anything threaten the deepest friendship of my life.
But I’m only human. How can I resist when my best friend is begging for more?
Sawyer Hendricks is the best friend I’ve ever had—the Goose to my Moose, and the shoulder I’ve cried on even though I’m not the crying type. The difference between us? Sawyer brightens any room in an instant, and I’m the gruff guy wearing flannel who’d rather be alone.
My first mistake was admitting to Sawyer that I couldn’t remember the last time I’d been kissed--because the punk leaned over and kissed me, right then and there.
…And then he ended up in my bed. Just friends, right?
Now I’ve gotten a taste, and he wants another taste of me, too. But no matter how hot it is when we’re together, Sawyer’s straight. This is innocent fun for him, and I’ve long since learned to shove my true feelings for him where the sun don’t shine. I’m no good at feelings, anyway.
He’s renovating the brewery where I work, and now we’re in closer contact than ever. My heart’s been shattered before, and there’s no chance I’ll let anything threaten the deepest friendship of my life.
But I’m only human. How can I resist when my best friend is begging for more?
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2024
216 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
April 11, 2024
Sawyer and Harlan have been best friends for most of their lives. Although all their friends think they're already *ahem* intimate with each other, they've never crossed that line. Sawyer is straight and figuring his life out, and Harlan is dealing with the loss of a past relationship. But with a little forced proximity and a surprise kiss, Sawyer begins to look at Harlan as more than just a friend. This book had more of a 'right place, right time in life' vibe and less of the 'brokenhearted pining over my BFF' thing. Both men were single and finally ready to take a leap of faith. It was nice to see Sawyer and Harlan finally recognize what they meant to each other. It was incredibly sweet and wholesome.
While I have read the rest of the series, it was long enough ago that I only remember bits and pieces and I didn't feel like I was missing anything reading this book. It can be read as a standalone.
I enjoyed Bear's Best Friend and the entire Fixer Brothers Construction Co series. The whole series is creative and entertaining, with a variety of popular tropes. The reason for my 3 stars rating is that while the book was well written and impeccably proofed, the story lost my interest in a few places. There were a few missed opportunities for the author to really delve into character development and add some rich detail to the story (I'd love to know more about )
If you love sweet stories with basically zero angst then this is the one for you! If you like a bit more of a meal, try Straight Dad, the second in the series.
Rating: 3.5
Angst: 1/5
Steam: 2/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
While I have read the rest of the series, it was long enough ago that I only remember bits and pieces and I didn't feel like I was missing anything reading this book. It can be read as a standalone.
I enjoyed Bear's Best Friend and the entire Fixer Brothers Construction Co series. The whole series is creative and entertaining, with a variety of popular tropes. The reason for my 3 stars rating is that while the book was well written and impeccably proofed, the story lost my interest in a few places. There were a few missed opportunities for the author to really delve into character development and add some rich detail to the story (I'd love to know more about )
If you love sweet stories with basically zero angst then this is the one for you! If you like a bit more of a meal, try Straight Dad, the second in the series.
Rating: 3.5
Angst: 1/5
Steam: 2/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
May 26, 2024
3.5 stars
Very sweet with a few nice emotional moments and relatable characters. I definitely believed in their romantic development and enjoyed the platonic touch and love they shared prior to the start of their relationship.
I appreciated how Harlan has been crushing on his best friend Sawyer for years, but it's Sawyer who makes the first move and does most of the pursuing.
The situation with Sawyer's mother was frustrating, as was the assumption they each had that the other wasn't interested in anything more than sex.
Overall though, none of this conflict was dragged out and it was a very low angst and cosy read.
Very sweet with a few nice emotional moments and relatable characters. I definitely believed in their romantic development and enjoyed the platonic touch and love they shared prior to the start of their relationship.
I appreciated how Harlan has been crushing on his best friend Sawyer for years, but it's Sawyer who makes the first move and does most of the pursuing.
The situation with Sawyer's mother was frustrating, as was the assumption they each had that the other wasn't interested in anything more than sex.
Overall though, none of this conflict was dragged out and it was a very low angst and cosy read.
April 3, 2024
This is the third book I’ve read in this series and I’ve really enjoyed them all and love seeing past characters in each new book. This can be read as a standalone but why not read the others too!!
Sawyer and Harlan were such a great pair as friends and then as lovers. They both had things they needed to work through but did it together and it worked out really well for them!
There were a few hiccups in the actual storyline, just some confusion about when they met (whether as kids or older) so I was confused reading certain parts. I tried to just put it out of my mind and was able to get through and ignore the inconsistencies.
I definitely recommend this author, series and story!
Sawyer and Harlan were such a great pair as friends and then as lovers. They both had things they needed to work through but did it together and it worked out really well for them!
There were a few hiccups in the actual storyline, just some confusion about when they met (whether as kids or older) so I was confused reading certain parts. I tried to just put it out of my mind and was able to get through and ignore the inconsistencies.
I definitely recommend this author, series and story!
April 22, 2024
This was such a sweet romance! I'm so glad that we finally got to Harlan's story!
This one has
- Friends to Lovers
- Bi-awakening
- Found family feels
- No big misunderstandings!
Harlan and Sawyer's story was very sweet. If you like friends to lovers, you'll love this. I really like that as the two were working towards that HEA they kept talking to each other and stayed friends. There were no stupid big misunderstandings or melodrama.
My one thing that would make me think of this book as like 4.5 stars, is that they felt very YOUNG. And I think they're supposed to be in their mid 30's right? Just their insecurities and worries came off as a young man, and I kept getting worried that there would be drama because it's like they were trying to create issues when there were none LOL.
Overall I enjoyed this one, and if you love this author's other stories, you'll love this one too!
Now Chase needs a man!!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This one has
- Friends to Lovers
- Bi-awakening
- Found family feels
- No big misunderstandings!
Harlan and Sawyer's story was very sweet. If you like friends to lovers, you'll love this. I really like that as the two were working towards that HEA they kept talking to each other and stayed friends. There were no stupid big misunderstandings or melodrama.
My one thing that would make me think of this book as like 4.5 stars, is that they felt very YOUNG. And I think they're supposed to be in their mid 30's right? Just their insecurities and worries came off as a young man, and I kept getting worried that there would be drama because it's like they were trying to create issues when there were none LOL.
Overall I enjoyed this one, and if you love this author's other stories, you'll love this one too!
Now Chase needs a man!!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Read
April 12, 2024Raleigh Reubins had me hooked at best friends to lovers with Bear's Best Friend... super sweet, with a sexual awakening, a kiss that changes everything and a slow build as Sawyer protects himself and his heart in case Harlan is just experimenting...
Their relationship is addictive and I love how Sawyer starts coming into his own with his family and gaining confidence in himself as he and Harlan take their friendship way beyond benefits to a true connection...
I also love Harlan's journey and how he has faith in his feelings.
This was a great addition to the Fixer Brother's series and a truly fun besties to lovers read. This book can be read standalone for the tropes, but is best enjoyed as part of the series.
Their relationship is addictive and I love how Sawyer starts coming into his own with his family and gaining confidence in himself as he and Harlan take their friendship way beyond benefits to a true connection...
I also love Harlan's journey and how he has faith in his feelings.
This was a great addition to the Fixer Brother's series and a truly fun besties to lovers read. This book can be read standalone for the tropes, but is best enjoyed as part of the series.
April 19, 2024
Sawyer and Harlan ❤️
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I have yet to find a Raleigh Rueben's book that I didn't adore and this one just adds to my list. I actually swooned over both of these characters. The relationship from friends to lovers couldn't have been more perfect. They both came into their own throughout this story, they supported each other and grew together as they navigated the change in their relationship, I couldn't get enough of Sawyer and Harlan ❤️ They shared a mutual adoration in the sexiest times and the sweetest times, it turned my heart to mush 🥹. The story was a great addition to this series and I'm excited for what's next from this author. I would absolutely recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I have yet to find a Raleigh Rueben's book that I didn't adore and this one just adds to my list. I actually swooned over both of these characters. The relationship from friends to lovers couldn't have been more perfect. They both came into their own throughout this story, they supported each other and grew together as they navigated the change in their relationship, I couldn't get enough of Sawyer and Harlan ❤️ They shared a mutual adoration in the sexiest times and the sweetest times, it turned my heart to mush 🥹. The story was a great addition to this series and I'm excited for what's next from this author. I would absolutely recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
July 19, 2024
This was a very very good best friends to lovers book....... But I'm still not a huge fan of best friends to lovers books....... Trope aside though, I loved seeing Harlan come out of his cage doing just fine after all the ways he was painted as this gruff soul, and Sawyer brought a lot of dynamics to the crew, I really liked him slowly finding his footing and his place in this group he didn't think he could belong to. The glimpses of Chase were fun too, I think his book could be interesting. He's got the personality to carry it.
May 19, 2024
Sawyer and Harlan have known each other since they were three, but best friends since they got to know each other in their early 20s working on the Pinecone Farm. Sawyer kept working at the farm, while Harlan chased his dream of being being a brewer at the Jade City Brewery, across the street from the Fixer Bros. They stuck together thick and thin, through Harlan's loss of his boyfriend 8 years prior, Sawyer's family treating him badly, and now through Sawyer's getting laid off from the farm. But Sawyer rebounds quickly by getting hired by the Fixer Bros.. and being put to work on renovations at the brewery, on camera, during the second season of the the reality show centered around the company.
Harlan has carried feelings for Sawyer for years, but.... Sawyer's straight. Until one night Harlan says he doesn't remember when he even last had a good kiss... so Sawyer leans over and lays one on him. Then somehow they wind up in bed together. Not so straight now, eh?
This was okay. Neither great nor awful, just fair. There were some very amusing moments and some painfully dragged out scenes (mostly with over-thinking their feelings.) I did notice a couple misspellings and a few grammatical errors. But mostly I did notice one major continuity error within the first couple chapters.
In chapter 1, Harlan says "We’d been friends since we were three years old," but in chapter 2, Sawyer recalls a memory of, after painting the community center together, "Harlan and I sat outside on the little covered front porch in rocking chairs, listening to oldies radio and shooting the shit. Getting to know each other. “We talked like old friends even when we barely knew each other yet.”"
So this could have been explained a bit better rather than sort of not-implying that the two knew each other since they were 3, but became true friends in their early 20s...
3.5 stars, I'm begrudgingly upgrading to 4 because it's right in the middle.
Harlan has carried feelings for Sawyer for years, but.... Sawyer's straight. Until one night Harlan says he doesn't remember when he even last had a good kiss... so Sawyer leans over and lays one on him. Then somehow they wind up in bed together. Not so straight now, eh?
This was okay. Neither great nor awful, just fair. There were some very amusing moments and some painfully dragged out scenes (mostly with over-thinking their feelings.) I did notice a couple misspellings and a few grammatical errors. But mostly I did notice one major continuity error within the first couple chapters.
In chapter 1, Harlan says "We’d been friends since we were three years old," but in chapter 2, Sawyer recalls a memory of, after painting the community center together, "Harlan and I sat outside on the little covered front porch in rocking chairs, listening to oldies radio and shooting the shit. Getting to know each other. “We talked like old friends even when we barely knew each other yet.”"
So this could have been explained a bit better rather than sort of not-implying that the two knew each other since they were 3, but became true friends in their early 20s...
3.5 stars, I'm begrudgingly upgrading to 4 because it's right in the middle.
April 14, 2024
I've really enjoyed this series so far and now we have a new addition to the Fixer Brothers Construction team. Sawyer has been made redundant and while in the bar that his best friend, Harlan, works at, the Fixer Brothers crew are around as they will be starting work there soon. Harlan has the great idea of Sawyer working for them and, problem solved! Sawyer, however, really struggles with imposter syndrome, mainly brought on by his family, and so often thinks he doesn't deserve or belong to something. Harlan has no problem supporting his friend as much as he needs, making sure he knows that he is proud of him and that he's loved.
That's one of the surprising and wonderful things about their friendship. They are so open with their affection but that doesn't help Harlan who has been attracted to his straight best friend for many years now. What changes things is Sawyer's kiss that he gives to Harlan when he says how long it has been and that sparks off Sawyer's interest in Harlan. Not just in his attractiveness, which is off the charts, but as a gay man and partner. It's all sorts of confusing for Harlan and there are some crossed wires along the way about what each one wants. It's a heartwarming relationship that they have building, though with quite a bit of trepidation, especially from Harlan, as this has come out of the blue and he doesn't want his heart broken again after his last partner passed away eight years ago.
An enjoyable low angst, best friends to lovers, bi-awakening that has everyone's favourite characters from the series adding in their wit and charm. I'm hoping that Chase has a book in his future as that delightful man needs to meet his perfect match.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
That's one of the surprising and wonderful things about their friendship. They are so open with their affection but that doesn't help Harlan who has been attracted to his straight best friend for many years now. What changes things is Sawyer's kiss that he gives to Harlan when he says how long it has been and that sparks off Sawyer's interest in Harlan. Not just in his attractiveness, which is off the charts, but as a gay man and partner. It's all sorts of confusing for Harlan and there are some crossed wires along the way about what each one wants. It's a heartwarming relationship that they have building, though with quite a bit of trepidation, especially from Harlan, as this has come out of the blue and he doesn't want his heart broken again after his last partner passed away eight years ago.
An enjoyable low angst, best friends to lovers, bi-awakening that has everyone's favourite characters from the series adding in their wit and charm. I'm hoping that Chase has a book in his future as that delightful man needs to meet his perfect match.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
April 17, 2024
Firstly, let me say I got this book from gay romance reviews, and this is me leaving my honest review.
Harlan and Sawyer have been best friends most of their life. They have been there for each other when the other has gone through a crisis. I.e. Harlan Lost his boyfriend, Trevor and Sawyer made sure he was there to support him and take care of him. Harlan had always known that he was gay and thankfully that had never been an issue between him and Sawyer, even though Sawyer is straight. Harlan had been in love with Sawyer for a long time, but he knew nothing would ever happen between them, even though their friends joked about them already being a couple. That was until Sawyer kissed Harlan.
sawyer didn’t have the best upbringing, his parents didn’t see him as successful . And his mother was a fairy strong willed woman. So having Harland as his best friend has been a godsend because he accepted him for who he was. But there was things going on in Sawyer’s head and heart, that Harlan didn’t know.
I have got to say this is the first book, I’ve read from this author and it blew me away. I cannot explain to you how much I absolutely adored this book. It really touched my heart the friendship they had was just what you want. you would call them soulmates even if they were just best friends. But that all changes when Sawyer kisses him. Which totally confused Harland. What these two Excel that was communication. They talked about everything. Nothing was coming from the Blinds side and let’s be honest the passion that these two share was lush, lovely. I honestly wish I could re-read this book right now. I would rate this 10 out of 10. So so excited I am super excited to read more from this author.
Harlan and Sawyer have been best friends most of their life. They have been there for each other when the other has gone through a crisis. I.e. Harlan Lost his boyfriend, Trevor and Sawyer made sure he was there to support him and take care of him. Harlan had always known that he was gay and thankfully that had never been an issue between him and Sawyer, even though Sawyer is straight. Harlan had been in love with Sawyer for a long time, but he knew nothing would ever happen between them, even though their friends joked about them already being a couple. That was until Sawyer kissed Harlan.
sawyer didn’t have the best upbringing, his parents didn’t see him as successful . And his mother was a fairy strong willed woman. So having Harland as his best friend has been a godsend because he accepted him for who he was. But there was things going on in Sawyer’s head and heart, that Harlan didn’t know.
I have got to say this is the first book, I’ve read from this author and it blew me away. I cannot explain to you how much I absolutely adored this book. It really touched my heart the friendship they had was just what you want. you would call them soulmates even if they were just best friends. But that all changes when Sawyer kisses him. Which totally confused Harland. What these two Excel that was communication. They talked about everything. Nothing was coming from the Blinds side and let’s be honest the passion that these two share was lush, lovely. I honestly wish I could re-read this book right now. I would rate this 10 out of 10. So so excited I am super excited to read more from this author.
April 6, 2024
Best friends, Harlan & Sawyer, come together in this continuing Fixer Bros series after an offhand comment by Harlan has Sawyer kiss him. When Sawyer realizes that kissing his best friend is an amazing adjustment --that he wants much more of-- in his life, he begins to wonder how he missed all the signs in their past that would have lead them to that moment sooner. Harlan has loved Sawyer for a great many years, but since he'd always been under the impression that Sawyer was straight, he was shocked by Sawyer's kiss and seemingly sudden interest. When the couple are given the chance to explore their attraction a bit more after a short blizzard blows through town, they both realize their friendship could easily grow to much more.
When Sawyer's in a (fairly) minor car accident, it forces Harlan to confront his past grief and understand his love for Sawyer runs deeper than he had thought in the beginning.
There's some frustrating family interference with a meddling mother that doesn't understand or praise her own son. Found family in this story makes up for much of that, as well as the close relationship between the MCs. Low angst, medium heat, silly banter/humor, and some really terrific lemonade.
Raleigh Ruebins is fantastic at developing lovable characters. It was fun being pulled back into his Colorado small town and be reunited with the earlier Fixer Bro stories for Shawn, Nathan, & Charlie. It would have been fun to hear from Rome & Casey from book 4, but I'm hoping that maybe we'll get another book that will give the cameraman Chase his own story. :-)
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
When Sawyer's in a (fairly) minor car accident, it forces Harlan to confront his past grief and understand his love for Sawyer runs deeper than he had thought in the beginning.
There's some frustrating family interference with a meddling mother that doesn't understand or praise her own son. Found family in this story makes up for much of that, as well as the close relationship between the MCs. Low angst, medium heat, silly banter/humor, and some really terrific lemonade.
Raleigh Ruebins is fantastic at developing lovable characters. It was fun being pulled back into his Colorado small town and be reunited with the earlier Fixer Bro stories for Shawn, Nathan, & Charlie. It would have been fun to hear from Rome & Casey from book 4, but I'm hoping that maybe we'll get another book that will give the cameraman Chase his own story. :-)
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2024
The latest installment in Raleigh Ruebins’ Fixer Brothers Series is Bear’s Best Friend, a Best Friends to Lovers romance. Harlan and Sawyer have been each other's favorite person since they first met working together in their 20’s. Sawyer feels like his life is falling apart when the job he’s loved for almost half of his life is suddenly gone. On top of this he feels like a failure in regards to his personal life as well. When he goes to commiserate with Harlan over where his life hasn’t gone and with no idea where to go…they both end up surprised where their road takes them. They discover sometimes it just takes the slightest breeze to blow aside the curtain that is blocking the view of what you really want. As Harlan and Sawyer try to find their way to what they really want their relationship together to be they go thru multiple episodes of miscommunication. I think that if I had one issue with this book it was this. It's tough enough when you have 1 person who is misunderstanding and misreading things in a relationship but when both parties just aren’t communicating things well the multiple conflicts become a little tiring. Other than this I loved the book.. The chemistry between the best friends was off the charts, so much that none of their friends believed they were “just friends”. The story truly showed the difficulty and fear that can be present when you take a chance with a solid friendship relationship to try to have something more that could be incredible. Another great read from the author and I”ve truly enjoyed every story in this series.
April 14, 2024
4.25 stars - I've read a number of books from this author, and in my mind, they continually get a little more thoughtful with each book. This is very much in keeping with the author's backlist of cozy fluffy romances, but I was pleasantly surprised about how the 'straight' MC thought about himself and his sexuality. Basically, Sawyer has never allowed himself to think about being anything other than 'normal' - he is the odd man out in his family and gets a lot of judgment from his mother in particular, so it makes sense that he would try to conform in other ways or not try to explore options that would make him more of a pariah (in his opinion.)
Harlan is Sawyer's steadfast champion, and they've been best friends for a long time (I admit the timeline was a little fuzzy for me, but I just rolled with it . . .); the relationship is solid and wonderfully depicted.
It possibly lingered the merest bit too long near the end, but since there was some freshness to the trope, I didn't mind. The was very cute. I highlighted quite a bit, which is my yardstick for something a cut above. Plenty of books slide right through my brain, perfectly fine but nothing stands out, but if lines snag on my attention and make me think "Yeah, that's a great way to say that" I'm happy.
I kindly received an advanced copy from Gay Romance Reviews.
Harlan is Sawyer's steadfast champion, and they've been best friends for a long time (I admit the timeline was a little fuzzy for me, but I just rolled with it . . .); the relationship is solid and wonderfully depicted.
It possibly lingered the merest bit too long near the end, but since there was some freshness to the trope, I didn't mind. The was very cute. I highlighted quite a bit, which is my yardstick for something a cut above. Plenty of books slide right through my brain, perfectly fine but nothing stands out, but if lines snag on my attention and make me think "Yeah, that's a great way to say that" I'm happy.
I kindly received an advanced copy from Gay Romance Reviews.
January 8, 2025
Harlan. The grouchy beer brewer who works at Rush's brewery finally gets his story.
Harlan's best friend Sawyer has just come in to let Harlan know that he's been laid off from his decades-long job at a local farm. Right away, Sawyer is offered a job with the Fixer Brothers, who are shooting their own reality show. Sawyer agrees, even though he has a bad case of imposter syndrome. He's never felt good enough, smart enough, successful enough. He's got an uncomfortable relationship with his mother who is constantly trying to set him up with jobs and people that meet her high standards.
Harlan hasn't dated in a decade, since his boyfriend Thomas passed away. But he's always had a thing for his straight best friend.
One day they're hanging out with the guys when Harlan mentions offhandedly that he can't remember his last kiss. He doesn't expect his best friend to lay a kiss right on him. Now, he can't stop wanting Sawyer, and strangely enough, Sawyer is in the exact same boat. He wants a man for the first time, but not any man. His very best friend, Harlan, who may still be grieving. Who may not even want him back.
This one was so sweet, and there was more angst than the other books which I actually liked better. A little angst, to me, makes the sweet stuff even better.
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥 1/2
Harlan's best friend Sawyer has just come in to let Harlan know that he's been laid off from his decades-long job at a local farm. Right away, Sawyer is offered a job with the Fixer Brothers, who are shooting their own reality show. Sawyer agrees, even though he has a bad case of imposter syndrome. He's never felt good enough, smart enough, successful enough. He's got an uncomfortable relationship with his mother who is constantly trying to set him up with jobs and people that meet her high standards.
Harlan hasn't dated in a decade, since his boyfriend Thomas passed away. But he's always had a thing for his straight best friend.
One day they're hanging out with the guys when Harlan mentions offhandedly that he can't remember his last kiss. He doesn't expect his best friend to lay a kiss right on him. Now, he can't stop wanting Sawyer, and strangely enough, Sawyer is in the exact same boat. He wants a man for the first time, but not any man. His very best friend, Harlan, who may still be grieving. Who may not even want him back.
This one was so sweet, and there was more angst than the other books which I actually liked better. A little angst, to me, makes the sweet stuff even better.
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥 1/2
April 8, 2024
This was a fun sweet read about 2 life long friends finally seeing what all their friends have. That they are in love with each other. Sawyer aka Goose insecure about himself because of his family making him the black sheep. Harlan aka Moose strong and protective. Harlan gets Sawyer a job helping the brewery with landscaping and construction on a home remodel reality show. Now seeing each other everyday at the brewery feeling start becoming stronger. The first kiss was the catalyst for a lot of self reflection on both sides. Both are scared and unsure what to do. As time goes by feelings get stronger and more sex is happening.
Sawyer so worried about not being enough for Harlan as a bar hoper was hitting on him. Feeling down he ends up crashing his truck. Harlan gets the call and takes off to be with him. Harlan is so scared because he’s already lost a boyfriend to a death. It’s amazing what comes out of your mouth when really drugged and Sawyer was hilarious. Both were open about their feelings. Everyone is happy with them finally becoming a true couple.
Finally having them together is great. It was a fun read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Monica (Lady M)
Sawyer so worried about not being enough for Harlan as a bar hoper was hitting on him. Feeling down he ends up crashing his truck. Harlan gets the call and takes off to be with him. Harlan is so scared because he’s already lost a boyfriend to a death. It’s amazing what comes out of your mouth when really drugged and Sawyer was hilarious. Both were open about their feelings. Everyone is happy with them finally becoming a true couple.
Finally having them together is great. It was a fun read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Monica (Lady M)
April 17, 2024
BEAR'S BEST FRIEND is the fifth installment in the fifth installment in the Fixer Brothers Construction Co series. It can be read as standalone. I haven't read any other books in this series and was able to follow along without issue.
Sawyer and Harlan have been best friends for years. They are extremely close, closer than most best friends. Most people think they are already "more" but Sawyer has always considered himself to be straight. Harlan on the other hand is very out and proud. When Harlan can't remember the last time he's been kissed Sawyer doesn't second guess anything and kisses Harlan. Harlan has been in love with Sawyer for as long as he could remember but he's come to terms with the fact that his straight best friend won't ever return those feelings. Something about that moment and that kiss that change everything!
I love a bi-awakening/gay for you story. Sawyer was so caring and everything Harlan needed. It was so easy for Sawyer to fall for Harlan. He'd been doing it for years but just never realized it. This has been my first introduction to the Fixer Brothers. I will definetely be going back to book one to get the whole story with them.
I was given a free copy of this book.
Sawyer and Harlan have been best friends for years. They are extremely close, closer than most best friends. Most people think they are already "more" but Sawyer has always considered himself to be straight. Harlan on the other hand is very out and proud. When Harlan can't remember the last time he's been kissed Sawyer doesn't second guess anything and kisses Harlan. Harlan has been in love with Sawyer for as long as he could remember but he's come to terms with the fact that his straight best friend won't ever return those feelings. Something about that moment and that kiss that change everything!
I love a bi-awakening/gay for you story. Sawyer was so caring and everything Harlan needed. It was so easy for Sawyer to fall for Harlan. He'd been doing it for years but just never realized it. This has been my first introduction to the Fixer Brothers. I will definetely be going back to book one to get the whole story with them.
I was given a free copy of this book.
April 17, 2024
This was about the loveliest best friends to lovers story you’re going to find, I really loved Harlan and Sawyer’s romance. This stands out to me because of the depth and dedication of their lifelong friendship, it’s really pretty special. I read a lot of romance novels where the communication is nonexistent or at least sorely lacking, but I’m so happy these two don’t suffer that problem. Harlan and Sawyer seem to be utterly unable to hold back once they start to consider something more than friendship. It’s was my absolute favorite thing how they couldn’t help but spew their feelings all over when they get near each other. This series also has the most wonderful characters so it was nice to have all the cameos from the Fixer Brothers crew. I enjoyed the reality tv show the guys are filming, which provided some interesting behind the scenes and introduced us to the wonderful Chase - I definitely hope to see more from him. Absolutely zero complaints from me with Sawyer and Harlan’s sweet and steamy romance, loved it a lot.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
April 22, 2024
The story, past and present, of Harlan and Sawyer is heartbreakingly good. In the past, Harlan's boyfriend passed away and he has never really been able to move on from that. Sawyer has never lived up to his parent's expectations. It is the friendship between Harlan and Sawyer that got them through it all.
In present time, Sawyer is laid off from the farm job he has kept this whole time. Furthermore, he is beginning to realize that maybe Harlan has become someone more to him than just his friend. But he is straight... so what does that mean?
Harlan has always been attracted to Sawyer, but knew his friend was straight so he pushed those feeling aside. It wasn't always easy, especially now that Sawyer seems to be wanting more. If he lets Sawyer in, would he be betraying his dead ex? Furthermore, is starting something with Sawyer worth losing his friendship after the inevitable heartbreaking comes when Sawyer realizes this was just an experiment and not a forever kind of thing.
Loved where the author went with this story. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received this book as an ARC from GRR and am leaving a honest review.
In present time, Sawyer is laid off from the farm job he has kept this whole time. Furthermore, he is beginning to realize that maybe Harlan has become someone more to him than just his friend. But he is straight... so what does that mean?
Harlan has always been attracted to Sawyer, but knew his friend was straight so he pushed those feeling aside. It wasn't always easy, especially now that Sawyer seems to be wanting more. If he lets Sawyer in, would he be betraying his dead ex? Furthermore, is starting something with Sawyer worth losing his friendship after the inevitable heartbreaking comes when Sawyer realizes this was just an experiment and not a forever kind of thing.
Loved where the author went with this story. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received this book as an ARC from GRR and am leaving a honest review.
April 11, 2024
I was not sure what to expect from the latest Fixer Brothers book, since all the fixer bros already had their story. Of course the title gives it away in Bear’s Best Friend by Raleigh Ruebins. The tweak was Bear’s BFF turned out to also be the newest Fixer employee (not a spoiler). The bear, of course, to any reader of the series is Harlan, the brewmaster at Jade Brewery. Not being a big fan of bears, I was very pleased with the character development of Harlan. Of course he has hidden depths, which he himself hides. The same could be said of his best friend, Sawyer. Not to be a spoiler, but the changes in Sawyer are huge and also make him a more sympathetic character. I wound up liking both men much more at the end of the book than at the beginning. As always it was fun to see the other characters from the previous books in the series. It was interesting to see the role the renovation of the brewery’s back yard played in the book. I could almost visualize it for myself. I received a free copy of the book from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 11, 2024
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
Super adorable BFF’s steal each other’s hearts and yours! Although it’s more likely they had each others’ hearts the whole time.
Did I mention they are adorable? They are thick as thieves and if you just met them you would assume they were already dating. It’s those two against the world.
Harlan is the only one who really knows Sawyer and his struggles, particularly with his family. I love how fiercely he stands up for Sawyer even when it’s to Sawyer himself. Everyone needs a Harlan in their corner.
And speaking of Harlan, this marshmallow of a man is such a fantastic human. He’s been protecting his heart for a long time now, and really it could only ever be Sawyer to make him take a chance again.
This was a really cute addition to the Fixer Brother’s Construction Co. series.
Super adorable BFF’s steal each other’s hearts and yours! Although it’s more likely they had each others’ hearts the whole time.
Did I mention they are adorable? They are thick as thieves and if you just met them you would assume they were already dating. It’s those two against the world.
Harlan is the only one who really knows Sawyer and his struggles, particularly with his family. I love how fiercely he stands up for Sawyer even when it’s to Sawyer himself. Everyone needs a Harlan in their corner.
And speaking of Harlan, this marshmallow of a man is such a fantastic human. He’s been protecting his heart for a long time now, and really it could only ever be Sawyer to make him take a chance again.
This was a really cute addition to the Fixer Brother’s Construction Co. series.
April 16, 2024
This is the 5th book, 1st series, that I have read by this Author and I enjoyed every one of them. I loved getting to see all characters from the first books make appearances throughout and see how their relationships and friendships have changed and grown over time.
* Bi-awakening
* Small Town
* Best friends to lovers
Sawyer and Harlan were probably two of my favorites in this series. Their friendship/partnership with one another was amazing and watching them grow through the book and see how much more they actually mean to one another was wonderful.
I loved that now matter how hard it was for Harlan to push his feelings aside for all those years he continued to support and be there for Sawyer. And watching Sawyer come into his own with his family and learning more about himself was a beautiful thing to witness.
And their nicknames 😍😍😍 Moose and Goose .... so stinking adorable
Would definitely recommend this series to others and can't wait to dive into this author some more now.
* Bi-awakening
* Small Town
* Best friends to lovers
Sawyer and Harlan were probably two of my favorites in this series. Their friendship/partnership with one another was amazing and watching them grow through the book and see how much more they actually mean to one another was wonderful.
I loved that now matter how hard it was for Harlan to push his feelings aside for all those years he continued to support and be there for Sawyer. And watching Sawyer come into his own with his family and learning more about himself was a beautiful thing to witness.
And their nicknames 😍😍😍 Moose and Goose .... so stinking adorable
Would definitely recommend this series to others and can't wait to dive into this author some more now.
April 29, 2024
Harlan and Sawyer have been best friends for years. Harlan was gay and had been through a loss, where Sawyer was his straight best friend. When they both find themselves single and open to changes in their lives, then Sawyer starts working at the Fixer Brothers, and opportunities that had never been considered are now being considered.
OPINION: The straight best friend story is one of the best because the MCs usually have such a bond already that falling into each other feels easy. I liked this book as much as the others because they have great MCs that you genuinely like and want to get to know better. I really hope there are more books in this series. Harlan and Sawyer are so charming and handle their own issues with a lot of internal dialog and epiphanies, which often have humorous notes. All of Raleigh’s books are just fun! Read the whole series and enjoy them.
SPICE: There are some wonderful spicy scenes that I was totally there for, the connection between these men is palpable and it is felt when they are physically together.
OPINION: The straight best friend story is one of the best because the MCs usually have such a bond already that falling into each other feels easy. I liked this book as much as the others because they have great MCs that you genuinely like and want to get to know better. I really hope there are more books in this series. Harlan and Sawyer are so charming and handle their own issues with a lot of internal dialog and epiphanies, which often have humorous notes. All of Raleigh’s books are just fun! Read the whole series and enjoy them.
SPICE: There are some wonderful spicy scenes that I was totally there for, the connection between these men is palpable and it is felt when they are physically together.
April 9, 2024
Amazing!
I loved this book! The story of Harlan and Sawyer is sweet, funny and oh so wonderful! The two have been best friends forever but one bad day for Sawyer will change everything. He loses his job and immediately finds a new one that will have him working in Harlan’s space everyday. Harlan already has feelings beyond friendship for Sawyer and tries to keep them hidden. But a blizzard will bring out a side of Sawyer that Harlan has never seen before. I love the way the two come together despite their worries and fears. They have a wealth of wonderful friends that are there to support them and offer a bit of advice that will help them through the rough times. An accident will give Harlan the push he needs to go all in with his feelings for Sawyer and it’s a push he won’t regret. They get their happily ever after in the end and I love how it all came to be!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved this book! The story of Harlan and Sawyer is sweet, funny and oh so wonderful! The two have been best friends forever but one bad day for Sawyer will change everything. He loses his job and immediately finds a new one that will have him working in Harlan’s space everyday. Harlan already has feelings beyond friendship for Sawyer and tries to keep them hidden. But a blizzard will bring out a side of Sawyer that Harlan has never seen before. I love the way the two come together despite their worries and fears. They have a wealth of wonderful friends that are there to support them and offer a bit of advice that will help them through the rough times. An accident will give Harlan the push he needs to go all in with his feelings for Sawyer and it’s a push he won’t regret. They get their happily ever after in the end and I love how it all came to be!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
April 7, 2024
Sawyer and Harlan have been long time best friends – and have a kind of bond that makes people pause and think something *is* there. Which rings true after Harlan makes a remark that has Sawyer kissing Harlan and leading them to take their friendship to another level.
I think Harlan and Sawyer were very cute and I loved their chemistry together but my biggest issue is I just simply couldn’t believe it. The pacing was a little too fast for me – especially when it’s two best friends becoming lovers *with* a bi awakening. I just expected a little more hesitation then was given and a lot more push and pull.
However, if you don’t mind fast pacing then you would enjoy this! It’s well written and the mcs are cute as individuals and as a whole.
3 stars
I was giving an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I think Harlan and Sawyer were very cute and I loved their chemistry together but my biggest issue is I just simply couldn’t believe it. The pacing was a little too fast for me – especially when it’s two best friends becoming lovers *with* a bi awakening. I just expected a little more hesitation then was given and a lot more push and pull.
However, if you don’t mind fast pacing then you would enjoy this! It’s well written and the mcs are cute as individuals and as a whole.
3 stars
I was giving an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this sweet, low-angst story. Harlan (the "bear") is more grounded, knowing what he wants in life, while Sawyer (the best friend) seems to be a bit of a flighty wild child at first, but may not be either after all. This was a different take on what I normally see in bi-awakening stories. Typically the previously straight character is very reluctant to accept their bisexuality. Here, after the initial kiss, Sawyer is ready to pursue more, with Harlan holding back, even though he's wanted Sawyer for a long time. I appreciated the introspection and communication of these characters in attempting to work things out. This was a new-to-me author, and while this is book 5 of the Fixer Brothers, it can be read as a standalone. I will definitely be going back to read the rest of the series!
April 18, 2024
super sweet friends to lovers!
Is this the same cranky Harlan from book 1? Are we sure?
One of my favorite things about this series is that as it progresses, Harlan has been getting less and less cranky, and it’s been as Sawyer has been appearing more and more. I hated Sawyer’s mom, but I did love the aha moment that Harlan had with regards to how he was treating Sawyer.
But I really loved how we got to see the depth of their friendship without having to read the book in a dual timeline, because I think that really hammered home that this was Sawyer’s growth and journey and his new discoveries, as opposed to being something that he just ignored his whole life.
Anywho, super cute, very much in line with the rest of the series and LOTS of fun cameos and group scenes, and now I’m just crossing my fingers our favorite blue haired crew member gets his HEA!
Is this the same cranky Harlan from book 1? Are we sure?
One of my favorite things about this series is that as it progresses, Harlan has been getting less and less cranky, and it’s been as Sawyer has been appearing more and more. I hated Sawyer’s mom, but I did love the aha moment that Harlan had with regards to how he was treating Sawyer.
But I really loved how we got to see the depth of their friendship without having to read the book in a dual timeline, because I think that really hammered home that this was Sawyer’s growth and journey and his new discoveries, as opposed to being something that he just ignored his whole life.
Anywho, super cute, very much in line with the rest of the series and LOTS of fun cameos and group scenes, and now I’m just crossing my fingers our favorite blue haired crew member gets his HEA!
April 18, 2024
Bear’s Best Friend by Raleigh Rubins is just what I needed right now. Book five in the Fixer Brothers Construction Co series features Harlan - the bear - and Sawyer his best friend. The two have been best friends for years and have a close, touchy relationship that evolves into more. Sawyer, who has always been perceived as “straight”, starts seeing Harlan in a new light, and Harlan has loved Sawyer (like loved loved) for just this side of forever. Both recognize the potential impact on their friendship, so there is some “a few steps forward, a few steps back” moments which make up the crux of the story. Overall a low-angst, light read featuring some of my favorite tropes (friends to lovers, gay for you) AND letting me revisit some of my favorite couples from the previous books in series? Well that’s darn near perfect.
April 21, 2024
Each reader has their favorite authors and I have to admit Raleigh Ruebins is one of mine. I always know what to expect and so far my expectations have been met in each book I have read by this author. Yes, that creates a slight bias, but oh well. I love how these books are always sweet, funny, cute and low angst. I think each author has their own recipe for their books, and this is what I associate with this author. I was not disappointed this time either. The story is unbelievably sweet, but not nauseatingly so, it is cute without being all fluff and funny enough to make it light and easy to read. It has enough angst to keep it going, but not enough to make one groan in despair and roll their eyes every few chapters. That is what I wanted when I decided to read it, and that is what I got, so I am happy.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
April 5, 2024
This sentence will make sense AFTER you read the story.... but the wrong character seems to have imposter syndrome....
Meeting Harlan in previous books we are led to believe he is grumpy and standoffish. I also believed he was a much older character. During this book, we discover the reason for any resting bitch face and why hes hard to get to know. In truth hes marshmallow. We knew from other stories, Sawyer and Harlans relationship wasnt the typical friendship most have. Sawyer has some serious issues and they are very understandable after meeting his mother. Only Harlan has taken the time to learn and help Sawyer to overcome them, at least until this point. The rest of the fixer brothers and previous characters return, and help enfold Sawyer into the fixer family.
Meeting Harlan in previous books we are led to believe he is grumpy and standoffish. I also believed he was a much older character. During this book, we discover the reason for any resting bitch face and why hes hard to get to know. In truth hes marshmallow. We knew from other stories, Sawyer and Harlans relationship wasnt the typical friendship most have. Sawyer has some serious issues and they are very understandable after meeting his mother. Only Harlan has taken the time to learn and help Sawyer to overcome them, at least until this point. The rest of the fixer brothers and previous characters return, and help enfold Sawyer into the fixer family.
April 14, 2024
I'm a martini person, myself. For relaxation. Remember, extra dry!
This is the first book of the series and first book by Raleigh Ruebins I've read. I'm kind of leery when reading a new (for me) author's book. I'm happy to say that I'm pl easantly surprised by how much I loved reading this! Now, I just HAVE to read the previous books in this series.
There is some fluff, but come on! This is a romance book and it's part of the genre. It's to be expected. No groaning allowed! lol
Sawyer and Harlan make an adorable couple. Reading their story is enjoyable and satisfying. It's steamy and has an HEA. The characters are quirky but just as loveable. Sawyer's mother is a hoot! I recommend reading this book.
This is the first book of the series and first book by Raleigh Ruebins I've read. I'm kind of leery when reading a new (for me) author's book. I'm happy to say that I'm pl easantly surprised by how much I loved reading this! Now, I just HAVE to read the previous books in this series.
There is some fluff, but come on! This is a romance book and it's part of the genre. It's to be expected. No groaning allowed! lol
Sawyer and Harlan make an adorable couple. Reading their story is enjoyable and satisfying. It's steamy and has an HEA. The characters are quirky but just as loveable. Sawyer's mother is a hoot! I recommend reading this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews