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With A Kick #5
Pluck and Play
Where the love of music matches a tough young entrepreneur and a cowboy in London
Everyone knows Curtis Wilson around the Soho business scene: a hard-working, budding young entrepreneur, who can get you supplies of whatever you need, and always with a joke and a laugh. Only Curtis knows that’s a purely public persona. Secretly, he’s still licking his wounds after being beaten up by his ex-lover, and he’s not about to let his guard down again.
Handsome Riley Richmond was born to be a cowboy, on his father’s side at least. But after his parents’ deaths, he finds himself stranded this side of the Atlantic, an anachronism in the bustling capital, and without financial capital. His consolation is his music, albeit he’s not a very successful busker and he loses his only decent piano gig after standing up for Curtis against a homophobic bully.
After that, they keep meeting, partly by accident, partly by Riley’s design. He’s smitten, and doesn’t mind letting Curtis know. Their music brings them together – Riley’s guitar playing and Curtis’ sharp, sexy poetry are a powerful combination. But Curtis still has some unfinished business with his ex-lover that he’s struggling to handle on his own. Riley intends to be the man Curtis calls on for help, whether he likes it or not. He’ll do whatever it takes to show Curtis that people can still be trusted to be honest and caring – even if it means walking them both into danger.
Everyone knows Curtis Wilson around the Soho business scene: a hard-working, budding young entrepreneur, who can get you supplies of whatever you need, and always with a joke and a laugh. Only Curtis knows that’s a purely public persona. Secretly, he’s still licking his wounds after being beaten up by his ex-lover, and he’s not about to let his guard down again.
Handsome Riley Richmond was born to be a cowboy, on his father’s side at least. But after his parents’ deaths, he finds himself stranded this side of the Atlantic, an anachronism in the bustling capital, and without financial capital. His consolation is his music, albeit he’s not a very successful busker and he loses his only decent piano gig after standing up for Curtis against a homophobic bully.
After that, they keep meeting, partly by accident, partly by Riley’s design. He’s smitten, and doesn’t mind letting Curtis know. Their music brings them together – Riley’s guitar playing and Curtis’ sharp, sexy poetry are a powerful combination. But Curtis still has some unfinished business with his ex-lover that he’s struggling to handle on his own. Riley intends to be the man Curtis calls on for help, whether he likes it or not. He’ll do whatever it takes to show Curtis that people can still be trusted to be honest and caring – even if it means walking them both into danger.
154 pages, ebook
First published February 4, 2015
4 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Clare London
147 books434 followersClare took the pen name London from the city where she lives, loves, and writes. A lone, brave female in a frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home, she juggles her writing with her other day job as an accountant. She’s written in many genres and across many settings, with award-winning novels and short stories published both online and in print. She says she likes variety in her writing while friends say she’s just fickle, but as long as both theories spawn good fiction, she’s happy. Most of her work features male/male romance and drama with a healthy serving of physical passion, as she enjoys both reading and writing about strong, sympathetic and sexy characters.
Clare currently has several novels sulking at that tricky chapter 3 stage and plenty of other projects in mind . . . she just has to find out where she left them in that frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home.
All the details and free fiction are available at her website. Visit her today and say hello!
Clare also writes as Stella Shaw and launched a new series of rent boy romances in 2021.
Clare currently has several novels sulking at that tricky chapter 3 stage and plenty of other projects in mind . . . she just has to find out where she left them in that frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home.
All the details and free fiction are available at her website. Visit her today and say hello!
Clare also writes as Stella Shaw and launched a new series of rent boy romances in 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 3, 2021
Sweet hurt/comfort romance, audio performed by Joel Leslie.
March 23, 2015
I love this series and the story of Curtis and Riley is a great addition. Plus, Cowboy! Old friends made appearances and that made me very happy.
I’ve read all three contributions by Clare London to the With a Kick series and I think this one is my favorite. Is it the strong American singing cowboy MC, the bourbon and chocolate over ice cream or the cluelessly charming, completely British MC? Ummmm, yes! Honestly, this story may have well been called Pluck and Play for Ann.
Riley was exactly the kind of cowboy, or just character in general that I swoon for. He’s charming and has a quiet strength that belies the passion underneath that Stetson. He’s deceptively wise and patient and he’ll protect those he loves, or even likes super hard, *ahem, Curtis, ahem* with no thought to his own well-being. Curtis is the character I want to hug and make everything better for, even though he would hate that. He’s kind and good by nature, he doesn’t even know how much positive influence his presence brings to his friends because he doesn’t know any other way to be.
So, these two charming cats meet and Curtis is coming out of an ugly relationship. He makes it clear to Riley that he’s not interested in anything with strings attached. Riley ‘agrees’ but Riley is not one to shy away from what he wants. Curtis is charmed and confuzzled by Riley’s insistent attraction and blatant honesty. Neither of them are forthcoming about their pasts and what has brought them to the point where they meet, but it was a perfect setup as they got to know one another. It didn’t feel secretive, it read naturally and I got to know them as they got to know each other.
I loved the banter between these two and the time spent together at Riley’s place. It was in turn adorable and hot. They were soooo meant to be together and they brought out the best in each other and made each other better men. I also appreciated how the author balanced out how they needed one another, but they still maintained their pride and independence. They were together because they wanted to be and there was no ridiculous angst or stubbornness that kept them apart.
The caper-y shenanigans at the end were perfect fun and I loved seeing the characters from the previous installments. And all these folks coming together for Curtis was just what he needed.
I could definitely read more about Riley and Curtis, maybe a trip home to the ranch? Also, Lee and Patrick? They are killing me to death. Holy hell I need to know all the things. Lee is breaking my heart and I know there is so much story to tell for Patrick.
Did I mention that I need to know? Please Clare, give me some Lee and Patrick.
With more Riley and Curtis too.
On the ranch.
Ok, I’m done.
Sorry,
I don’t mean to be pushy.
#notsorry.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
I’ve read all three contributions by Clare London to the With a Kick series and I think this one is my favorite. Is it the strong American singing cowboy MC, the bourbon and chocolate over ice cream or the cluelessly charming, completely British MC? Ummmm, yes! Honestly, this story may have well been called Pluck and Play for Ann.
Riley was exactly the kind of cowboy, or just character in general that I swoon for. He’s charming and has a quiet strength that belies the passion underneath that Stetson. He’s deceptively wise and patient and he’ll protect those he loves, or even likes super hard, *ahem, Curtis, ahem* with no thought to his own well-being. Curtis is the character I want to hug and make everything better for, even though he would hate that. He’s kind and good by nature, he doesn’t even know how much positive influence his presence brings to his friends because he doesn’t know any other way to be.
So, these two charming cats meet and Curtis is coming out of an ugly relationship. He makes it clear to Riley that he’s not interested in anything with strings attached. Riley ‘agrees’ but Riley is not one to shy away from what he wants. Curtis is charmed and confuzzled by Riley’s insistent attraction and blatant honesty. Neither of them are forthcoming about their pasts and what has brought them to the point where they meet, but it was a perfect setup as they got to know one another. It didn’t feel secretive, it read naturally and I got to know them as they got to know each other.
I loved the banter between these two and the time spent together at Riley’s place. It was in turn adorable and hot. They were soooo meant to be together and they brought out the best in each other and made each other better men. I also appreciated how the author balanced out how they needed one another, but they still maintained their pride and independence. They were together because they wanted to be and there was no ridiculous angst or stubbornness that kept them apart.
The caper-y shenanigans at the end were perfect fun and I loved seeing the characters from the previous installments. And all these folks coming together for Curtis was just what he needed.
I could definitely read more about Riley and Curtis, maybe a trip home to the ranch? Also, Lee and Patrick? They are killing me to death. Holy hell I need to know all the things. Lee is breaking my heart and I know there is so much story to tell for Patrick.
Did I mention that I need to know? Please Clare, give me some Lee and Patrick.
With more Riley and Curtis too.
On the ranch.
Ok, I’m done.
Sorry,
I don’t mean to be pushy.
#notsorry.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
March 20, 2015
**4.5 stars**
I loved this novella from Clare and Sue Brown’s With A Kick series. I really enjoy Clare's stories; she has a distinctive witty edge to her writing that gives her contemporary romances a smart, snappier feel. She still manages to deliver the fictional escapism we all look for in our m/m love stories, but there's an honesty and believability factor to her characters that stops them from just being your usual fluffy, feel good, romantic fodder.
Both Curtis and Riley are extremely lovable characters, I actually liked them both as persons in their own right so I didn't need convincing much that they'd make a brilliant couple. I knew as soon as Riley stepped in to save Curtis, from an irate homophobic chef—dressed in posh totty evening wear but wearing cowboy boots and a cowboy hat—that Curtis was a goner. He didn't really know what to make of him at first, but within minutes of being treated to a lazy, sexy grin that transformed him from not bad looking to bloody gorgeous, Curtis was smit...but then so was Riley...and so was I!
Everyone takes to Curtis and you can see why. Cute, smiley and always willing to go that extra mile for his clients and friends, he's a sweetheart, but underneath all the smiles he's hurting from a failed relationship with an abusive ex partner who he's recently had to run from. Lying low he hasn't told anybody in their close knit community, in case his ex cottons on to where he's settled, so as far as everyone knows, on the surface he's the happy chappy they've all grown close to but he's living on a knife edge and is frightened to get involved or trust anyone again.
It's all top show with Riley too. Outwardly it looks like he's well set in life. He's living in a fairly posh house, in a decent part of London but that's all pretty much a sham, as circumstances relating to the death of his parents have put his finances in a precarious position. A true cowboy because of his family background, his heart is really in music, and he's a great musician, but after losing his piano playing job at the restaurant run by the chef who attacked Curtis, he has to resort to busking to put some extra cash in his pocket. And it's busking outside With A Kick, the adult ice cream shop that brings him back into contact with Curtis. He's good but when it comes to busking on the streets his choice of cover versions leave a lot to be desired, so the pennies don't get dropped in his hat that much. However fate keeps bringing the two of them together and soon their appreciation of music, some long ago poetry and the mutual attraction that sizzles between them, turns to something more meaningful until unwanted interferences from both their pasts catch up with them and threaten to put a (dangerous) spanner in the works....
For rest of review follow Link: http://bit.ly/1DDooNV
I loved this novella from Clare and Sue Brown’s With A Kick series. I really enjoy Clare's stories; she has a distinctive witty edge to her writing that gives her contemporary romances a smart, snappier feel. She still manages to deliver the fictional escapism we all look for in our m/m love stories, but there's an honesty and believability factor to her characters that stops them from just being your usual fluffy, feel good, romantic fodder.
Both Curtis and Riley are extremely lovable characters, I actually liked them both as persons in their own right so I didn't need convincing much that they'd make a brilliant couple. I knew as soon as Riley stepped in to save Curtis, from an irate homophobic chef—dressed in posh totty evening wear but wearing cowboy boots and a cowboy hat—that Curtis was a goner. He didn't really know what to make of him at first, but within minutes of being treated to a lazy, sexy grin that transformed him from not bad looking to bloody gorgeous, Curtis was smit...but then so was Riley...and so was I!
Everyone takes to Curtis and you can see why. Cute, smiley and always willing to go that extra mile for his clients and friends, he's a sweetheart, but underneath all the smiles he's hurting from a failed relationship with an abusive ex partner who he's recently had to run from. Lying low he hasn't told anybody in their close knit community, in case his ex cottons on to where he's settled, so as far as everyone knows, on the surface he's the happy chappy they've all grown close to but he's living on a knife edge and is frightened to get involved or trust anyone again.
It's all top show with Riley too. Outwardly it looks like he's well set in life. He's living in a fairly posh house, in a decent part of London but that's all pretty much a sham, as circumstances relating to the death of his parents have put his finances in a precarious position. A true cowboy because of his family background, his heart is really in music, and he's a great musician, but after losing his piano playing job at the restaurant run by the chef who attacked Curtis, he has to resort to busking to put some extra cash in his pocket. And it's busking outside With A Kick, the adult ice cream shop that brings him back into contact with Curtis. He's good but when it comes to busking on the streets his choice of cover versions leave a lot to be desired, so the pennies don't get dropped in his hat that much. However fate keeps bringing the two of them together and soon their appreciation of music, some long ago poetry and the mutual attraction that sizzles between them, turns to something more meaningful until unwanted interferences from both their pasts catch up with them and threaten to put a (dangerous) spanner in the works....
For rest of review follow Link: http://bit.ly/1DDooNV
March 3, 2015
"Trust is the easiest thing in the world to lose, and the hardest thing in the world to get back.” ~ Kamari aka Lyrikal
Of all the men Curtis Wilson, of 'Pluck and Play' by Clare London, may have ever imagined becoming involved with, an American singing cowboy named Riley Richmond would have been last on his list. Curtis senses the attraction, but after surviving the abusive relationship from which he has just escaped, he's in no hurry to hook up with another stranger. That's before he learns how persuasive Riley can be.
Curtis is well-liked by the men who frequent the With a Kick ice cream shop, and also by his customers. The ice cream shop is one of Curtis's guilty pleasures; it is a release from the daily drudgery of his enterprise as a supplier to the small businesses in the area. Curtis is a good, steady guy who gladly helps others when he can, but he's lost his trust in people. He's lonely, despondent, and his self-esteem is shattered. Curtis likes Riley, in fact, he's bemused by this tall, handsome man with the cowboy hat and boots and awful song choices. Despite his distrust, he throws caution to the wind and goes home with Riley. Curtis is even more confused about Riley when he sees his luxurious suite. Curtis assumes that he's totally out of Riley's league considering his affluence. But looks can be deceiving. When Riley and Curtis start to share information, they see that each of them have their own struggles; Curtis with his abuse and Riley with family issues. These disclosures lead to a better understanding and a feeling of kinship between them.
Riley is smart, funny, and caring. He's also delightfully devious, and very determined to win Curtis over. Acting as his knight in shining armor when Curtis is assaulted by a hotel chef is certainly a dramatic introduction. Even though Riley knows he'll probably lose his job, he defends Curtis anyway. When he starts busking across the street from the ice cream shop, Riley deliberately plays and sings badly to garner Curtis's attention. Riley correctly guesses that Curtis won't be able to stand the cacophony and will come over to help. Riley invites Curtis to his place so they can work on finding him a better repertoire for his performances. Riley doesn't know why, but he sees that Curtis is hesitant to come with him. Riley proceeds very slowly, not wanting to spook Curtis who invokes feelings in him that he's never felt before and it pays off. Curtis opens up to him and talks about the abusive relationship he just got away from, which he's never told anyone else about. When Riley hears that Curtis's ex is back in town and threatening him, he motivates Curtis's friends to devise a brilliant plan which will, hopefully, get rid of his ex forever.
This is a great addition to the 'With a Kick' series. I love the way Curtis and Riley's romance plays out and how all the guys from With a Kick contribute in their own unique way to help Curtis. It was good to visit with them again and see how they are doing. Now if we can just get Lee and Patrick together, (hint, hint) all will be well. Fans of the series will love this latest addition. Those new to the series really are missing a great group of charming, sexy, delicious stories. They can be read alone, but are much more satisfying if read in sequential order. Thanks, Clare, for the delightful story. I look forward to the next one.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Of all the men Curtis Wilson, of 'Pluck and Play' by Clare London, may have ever imagined becoming involved with, an American singing cowboy named Riley Richmond would have been last on his list. Curtis senses the attraction, but after surviving the abusive relationship from which he has just escaped, he's in no hurry to hook up with another stranger. That's before he learns how persuasive Riley can be.
Curtis is well-liked by the men who frequent the With a Kick ice cream shop, and also by his customers. The ice cream shop is one of Curtis's guilty pleasures; it is a release from the daily drudgery of his enterprise as a supplier to the small businesses in the area. Curtis is a good, steady guy who gladly helps others when he can, but he's lost his trust in people. He's lonely, despondent, and his self-esteem is shattered. Curtis likes Riley, in fact, he's bemused by this tall, handsome man with the cowboy hat and boots and awful song choices. Despite his distrust, he throws caution to the wind and goes home with Riley. Curtis is even more confused about Riley when he sees his luxurious suite. Curtis assumes that he's totally out of Riley's league considering his affluence. But looks can be deceiving. When Riley and Curtis start to share information, they see that each of them have their own struggles; Curtis with his abuse and Riley with family issues. These disclosures lead to a better understanding and a feeling of kinship between them.
Riley is smart, funny, and caring. He's also delightfully devious, and very determined to win Curtis over. Acting as his knight in shining armor when Curtis is assaulted by a hotel chef is certainly a dramatic introduction. Even though Riley knows he'll probably lose his job, he defends Curtis anyway. When he starts busking across the street from the ice cream shop, Riley deliberately plays and sings badly to garner Curtis's attention. Riley correctly guesses that Curtis won't be able to stand the cacophony and will come over to help. Riley invites Curtis to his place so they can work on finding him a better repertoire for his performances. Riley doesn't know why, but he sees that Curtis is hesitant to come with him. Riley proceeds very slowly, not wanting to spook Curtis who invokes feelings in him that he's never felt before and it pays off. Curtis opens up to him and talks about the abusive relationship he just got away from, which he's never told anyone else about. When Riley hears that Curtis's ex is back in town and threatening him, he motivates Curtis's friends to devise a brilliant plan which will, hopefully, get rid of his ex forever.
This is a great addition to the 'With a Kick' series. I love the way Curtis and Riley's romance plays out and how all the guys from With a Kick contribute in their own unique way to help Curtis. It was good to visit with them again and see how they are doing. Now if we can just get Lee and Patrick together, (hint, hint) all will be well. Fans of the series will love this latest addition. Those new to the series really are missing a great group of charming, sexy, delicious stories. They can be read alone, but are much more satisfying if read in sequential order. Thanks, Clare, for the delightful story. I look forward to the next one.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 21, 2015
>: This is the fifth entry in the With a Kick series and it’s as lovely as ever. With a Kick, the “adult” ice cream shop (think ice cream and alcohol!), is host to some wonderful friends. The owner of a delivery service, Curtis, is a fan of the ice cream. When, on a delivery to a nearby hotel, he is attacked by the homophobic chef of the hotel. Luckily, a gorgeous man is there to save him, with a punch to the face for the chef. A “posh totty” wearing cowboy boots, no less. And so Curtis met Riley.
Riley is a musician, busking outside With a Kick the next time Curtis sees him. Unfortunately, the music is terrible and Curtis can’t help but go talk to him. This begins the slow, sweet courtship of Curtis and Riley. Riley is so laid back and Curtis is so enamored of the cowboy idea without really knowing what a cowboy does that is makes for interesting conversation.
As the two begin sharing their histories, you realize how much more there is to both of them. Curtis has an ex causing trouble and Riley has some serious family trouble. I really wanted to know more about that part, because it really seemed at odds with the Riley we see here, so calm and happy.
The reason for Riley’s terrible busking? I loved that!
I do have to whine – come on with Patrick and Lee! I need Lee’s HEA, especially after this one, he seems so sad. I loved getting to see the other couples from past stories, including Phiz and Bryan and Eddy and Nuri.
This is a cute addition to the series, even with the idiot ex. And of course, it has to be said, in this case – save a horse, ride a cowboy.
Riley is a musician, busking outside With a Kick the next time Curtis sees him. Unfortunately, the music is terrible and Curtis can’t help but go talk to him. This begins the slow, sweet courtship of Curtis and Riley. Riley is so laid back and Curtis is so enamored of the cowboy idea without really knowing what a cowboy does that is makes for interesting conversation.
As the two begin sharing their histories, you realize how much more there is to both of them. Curtis has an ex causing trouble and Riley has some serious family trouble. I really wanted to know more about that part, because it really seemed at odds with the Riley we see here, so calm and happy.
The reason for Riley’s terrible busking? I loved that!
I do have to whine – come on with Patrick and Lee! I need Lee’s HEA, especially after this one, he seems so sad. I loved getting to see the other couples from past stories, including Phiz and Bryan and Eddy and Nuri.
This is a cute addition to the series, even with the idiot ex. And of course, it has to be said, in this case – save a horse, ride a cowboy.
April 19, 2019
I'm listening to the second With a Kick bundle in audio format and really enjoyed this one! Joel Leslie did an amazing job, as always, in voicing the characters - his accents and nuances to the tones and inflections of tones is just always wonderful to hear.
I especially loved how all of the couples in the previous stories are included in this one and how all their friendships are interconnected here.
Curtis and Riley were a great couple, and I really enjoyed their romance. Gotta love a cowboy!
I received an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I especially loved how all of the couples in the previous stories are included in this one and how all their friendships are interconnected here.
Curtis and Riley were a great couple, and I really enjoyed their romance. Gotta love a cowboy!
I received an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2015
Guitar Playing Cowboy!
I have so much love for this series with alternating books between Clare London and Sue Brown. I love their look at London, and the cast of characters that appear in the books. This one is no exception. Loved it. Possibly my favourite so far - hell, I can't resist a cowboy... and how writing a book with Riley visiting home!
I have so much love for this series with alternating books between Clare London and Sue Brown. I love their look at London, and the cast of characters that appear in the books. This one is no exception. Loved it. Possibly my favourite so far - hell, I can't resist a cowboy... and how writing a book with Riley visiting home!
February 18, 2015
What a fun series! I love how Sue and Clare give us great guys that are so good together. Looking forward to more, Lee needs his happy ending too!!
February 25, 2015
5 star review by Amber
So, with this book I did something I absolutely never, ever do. I started a series at book 5 without having read any others in the series. I did this for a few different reasons; first, I absolutely loved the blurb. Without a doubt it had me extremely interested. And second, which I think is most important was the publisher classified it as a standalone. That’s all I needed…I was sold. And you know what, this book was damn good. So good, in fact that I am now going all the way back to book 1 and starting them from the beginning. I never felt lost while reading this story, if anything the snippets of past characters only wet my appetite and made me want to know more about them. I’d say that’s a job well done!
Curtis Wilson tries very hard to make everyone believe he’s incredibly happy. What no one really knows is that every day is a struggle plus he’s still mentally healing from an abusive past relationship. He hustles every day trying to make his business take off. He gives himself wholeheartedly to the business, ensuring his customers happiness by making sure he’s reliable. On one of his deliveries he’s verbally attacked and almost physically injured when a stranger steps up to defend him.
Riley Richmond is intrigued and attracted to Curtis Wilson, has been since he laid eyes on him. A chance altercation at one of his jobs lands him face to face with Curtis and a homophobic chef. Without a second thought Riley defends Curtis which marks the beginning of a very sweet but tentative relationship.
I unconditionally LOVED Riley in this book. He melted me from the beginning. I loved how he sang those songs, even though Curtis cringed. It totally tickled me; maybe I thought he was doing it for attention. I don’t know but it endeared him to me all the more. The way he was with Curtis, was magic. So patient, so loving, so open!!
These two have to battle childhood scars, abusive ex’s, and their own personal demons to be together and going through that with them was something special.
This book was great and memorable. It was a pleasure to read it and I honestly can’t wait to read the first 4!!
Get it!!! You won’t be disappointed.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
So, with this book I did something I absolutely never, ever do. I started a series at book 5 without having read any others in the series. I did this for a few different reasons; first, I absolutely loved the blurb. Without a doubt it had me extremely interested. And second, which I think is most important was the publisher classified it as a standalone. That’s all I needed…I was sold. And you know what, this book was damn good. So good, in fact that I am now going all the way back to book 1 and starting them from the beginning. I never felt lost while reading this story, if anything the snippets of past characters only wet my appetite and made me want to know more about them. I’d say that’s a job well done!
Curtis Wilson tries very hard to make everyone believe he’s incredibly happy. What no one really knows is that every day is a struggle plus he’s still mentally healing from an abusive past relationship. He hustles every day trying to make his business take off. He gives himself wholeheartedly to the business, ensuring his customers happiness by making sure he’s reliable. On one of his deliveries he’s verbally attacked and almost physically injured when a stranger steps up to defend him.
Riley Richmond is intrigued and attracted to Curtis Wilson, has been since he laid eyes on him. A chance altercation at one of his jobs lands him face to face with Curtis and a homophobic chef. Without a second thought Riley defends Curtis which marks the beginning of a very sweet but tentative relationship.
I unconditionally LOVED Riley in this book. He melted me from the beginning. I loved how he sang those songs, even though Curtis cringed. It totally tickled me; maybe I thought he was doing it for attention. I don’t know but it endeared him to me all the more. The way he was with Curtis, was magic. So patient, so loving, so open!!
These two have to battle childhood scars, abusive ex’s, and their own personal demons to be together and going through that with them was something special.
This book was great and memorable. It was a pleasure to read it and I honestly can’t wait to read the first 4!!
Get it!!! You won’t be disappointed.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
January 9, 2016
Cowboy!
I knew where this was heading and I loved the scene when it arrived and the journey getting there.
Loved catching up with all the gang.
Now, Patrick and Lee's story...
I knew where this was heading and I loved the scene when it arrived and the journey getting there.
Loved catching up with all the gang.
Now, Patrick and Lee's story...
June 1, 2015
I just adore the author's work and this is no exception. There are a few surprises and a prickly protagonist so good fun all around.
November 15, 2018
I really enjoy Clare London’s writing and, until now, that included the With A Kick series. I was very disappointed with this one. The storyline was great but poorly executed. The writing and conversations didn’t flow well to me and seemed stilted and abrupt. And the cowboy English was just flat out annoying. Curtis and Riley were good together but there was a growing hypocrisy between them as they each tried to get the other to accept help from others but insisted they are fine on their own. I guess the final encounter with Nick proved their points.
I’m still not sure what Curtis did for a living other than just delivering things. And how was Riley surviving in London with only meager busking money? That did not seem plausable.
The epilogue was cute but also came across as a hurried wrap-up stuck on the end.
And note to author: If you ever edit or revise this, I would suggest refraining from quoting Donald Trump. Do you understand who your American audience is?
I’m still not sure what Curtis did for a living other than just delivering things. And how was Riley surviving in London with only meager busking money? That did not seem plausable.
The epilogue was cute but also came across as a hurried wrap-up stuck on the end.
And note to author: If you ever edit or revise this, I would suggest refraining from quoting Donald Trump. Do you understand who your American audience is?
August 21, 2018
Pluck and Play is classic With a Kick series fun.
Riley and Curtis are a mixed-up couple, but together they can start to open up to one another, and hopefully help one another out.
They have to deal with an alcoholic and abusive ex, threats, a whole lot of family issues, and some more. Through it all, they remain sweet and lovable.
I must admit to absolutely loving the reason for why they met. Classic With A Twist content here! And, of course, one of the main charms of this series is the constant appearance of former characters, as they add humor, heart, help and friendship!
Riley and Curtis are a mixed-up couple, but together they can start to open up to one another, and hopefully help one another out.
They have to deal with an alcoholic and abusive ex, threats, a whole lot of family issues, and some more. Through it all, they remain sweet and lovable.
I must admit to absolutely loving the reason for why they met. Classic With A Twist content here! And, of course, one of the main charms of this series is the constant appearance of former characters, as they add humor, heart, help and friendship!
February 18, 2024
A hard working self-employed Brit and a guitar strumming, Cowboy hat and boot wearing American meet, and that's where the fun begins. A good read but I did find it a touch slow in the middle but not enough to give up, not at all. A sweet and tender growing romance, that is until chaos ensues when the bitter conniving ex turns up. A good plot, a nice read.
February 11, 2023
3.75 stars
April 3, 2015
This book is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone. I honestly wish there were half stars, because this was a very strong 4 stars.
Curtis is a delivery man. He works for smaller businesses and is his own man. One day, an American stands up for him against a homophobic customer, and he meets Riley. Riley is a down-on-his-luck (aren't they all) musician who is currently living across the pond. He likes to wear cowboy boots and a cowboy hat, so we understand that he's definitely not a native. Their relationship starts when Curtis notices Riley busking (badly) outside With A Kick, a ice cream shop that sells special (ie boozy) sweets.
This was a short read, but the author was able to get a lot of details and background into the story. Almost too much. There is an ex that won't go away and family drama. I really wanted more time for the characters to develop their relationship. The conflict is resolved rather quickly and easily, which I'm ok with. For fans of the series, there are appearances from couples starring in the previous stories and definite foreshadowing of at least one other couple to come.
Highly recommended for those who like a shorter length story about a sweet cowboy and a plucky (couldn't help myself) delivery guy with a HFN.
Curtis is a delivery man. He works for smaller businesses and is his own man. One day, an American stands up for him against a homophobic customer, and he meets Riley. Riley is a down-on-his-luck (aren't they all) musician who is currently living across the pond. He likes to wear cowboy boots and a cowboy hat, so we understand that he's definitely not a native. Their relationship starts when Curtis notices Riley busking (badly) outside With A Kick, a ice cream shop that sells special (ie boozy) sweets.
This was a short read, but the author was able to get a lot of details and background into the story. Almost too much. There is an ex that won't go away and family drama. I really wanted more time for the characters to develop their relationship. The conflict is resolved rather quickly and easily, which I'm ok with. For fans of the series, there are appearances from couples starring in the previous stories and definite foreshadowing of at least one other couple to come.
Highly recommended for those who like a shorter length story about a sweet cowboy and a plucky (couldn't help myself) delivery guy with a HFN.
March 8, 2015
This one felt just a little different to me. It still had all the humor and heart, but it felt like a much more serious undertone, perhaps because of the subject matter. I hate to give spoilers, but fair warning: while there's nothing graphic, there are mentions of domestic abuse in this one.
Curtis and Riley both got to me at a much more emotional level. These guys had some heavy things to deal with. Even so, Ms. London did it with the same light touch as with the other stories, blending equal parts tug-at-the-heartstrings and laugh-out-loud fun. This pair were also, in my opinion, the steamiest of the bunch.
I'm not sure how realistic the end is, but I loved the themes of friendship and trust. Like in previous books, I found myself cheering for these guys at the end, and I was more than a little teary at the way the whole thing resolved.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
5 stars
Amy
Curtis and Riley both got to me at a much more emotional level. These guys had some heavy things to deal with. Even so, Ms. London did it with the same light touch as with the other stories, blending equal parts tug-at-the-heartstrings and laugh-out-loud fun. This pair were also, in my opinion, the steamiest of the bunch.
I'm not sure how realistic the end is, but I loved the themes of friendship and trust. Like in previous books, I found myself cheering for these guys at the end, and I was more than a little teary at the way the whole thing resolved.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
5 stars
Amy
May 26, 2015
Ideal Palate Cleansers
This review is for all five books in this series, and one hopes that author Clare London has at least one more she is working on so that we can finally tie a bow around the series.
The premise of a too-cool-to-be-true London ice-cream parlor just happening to be the serendipitous location where ten completely different men accidentally meet to form five completely ingenious couples is laced with laughter, off-the-wall plots, a lot of sex (sometimes), some rough sex (sometimes), but always hope, will have you buying the next one and the next one and the next one and the next one, and hoping for a sixth (or maybe plenty of others) each time.
Each book is an easy novella-length palate cleanser you can pick up anywhere you want to read but not deal with the next chapter of a full meal book--or really, as a just dessert for any other one you finish. Cheers!
This review is for all five books in this series, and one hopes that author Clare London has at least one more she is working on so that we can finally tie a bow around the series.
The premise of a too-cool-to-be-true London ice-cream parlor just happening to be the serendipitous location where ten completely different men accidentally meet to form five completely ingenious couples is laced with laughter, off-the-wall plots, a lot of sex (sometimes), some rough sex (sometimes), but always hope, will have you buying the next one and the next one and the next one and the next one, and hoping for a sixth (or maybe plenty of others) each time.
Each book is an easy novella-length palate cleanser you can pick up anywhere you want to read but not deal with the next chapter of a full meal book--or really, as a just dessert for any other one you finish. Cheers!
August 20, 2016
This one felt just a little different to me. It still had all the humor and heart, but it felt like a much more serious undertone, perhaps because of the subject matter. I hate to give spoilers, but fair warning: while there’s nothing graphic, there are mentions of domestic abuse in this one.
Curtis and Riley both got to me at a much more emotional level. These guys had some heavy things to deal with. Even so, Ms. London did it with the same light touch as with the other stories, blending equal parts tug-at-the-heartstrings and laugh-out-loud fun. This pair were also, in my opinion, the steamiest of the bunch.
I’m not sure how realistic the end is, but I loved the themes of friendship and trust. Like in previous books, I found myself cheering for these guys at the end, and I was more than a little teary at the way the whole thing resolved.
Curtis and Riley both got to me at a much more emotional level. These guys had some heavy things to deal with. Even so, Ms. London did it with the same light touch as with the other stories, blending equal parts tug-at-the-heartstrings and laugh-out-loud fun. This pair were also, in my opinion, the steamiest of the bunch.
I’m not sure how realistic the end is, but I loved the themes of friendship and trust. Like in previous books, I found myself cheering for these guys at the end, and I was more than a little teary at the way the whole thing resolved.
April 2, 2016
Well damn GR for eating my review!!! Suffice to say I really enjoyed these guys. Riley and Curtis meet when Curtis is being harassed by a homophobic jerk and Riley ends up losing a gig over it. When they meet rather again rather by chance outside With a Kick, they get to talking. Both make assumptions. Both are wrong. It's fun to watch them try to figure out what it means and what they might mean to each other. It's also fun to see the whole With a Kick gang again as well.
This is a fun series. I love that all the guys are so different and have such interesting and diverse backstories. I can't wait to read the next one :)
This is a fun series. I love that all the guys are so different and have such interesting and diverse backstories. I can't wait to read the next one :)
December 11, 2016
Good to see all the old cast. With a Kick continues to be the focus.
Curtis is a hard worker, having carved a niche for himself among the local businesses - fixing, buying, delivering, problem solving on a smaller scale.
Riley's more of a mystery and the most I felt I knew about him came in a few sentences towards the end - would have loved more about the sexy cowboy!
Struggled to get into it, but that may have been my available time rather than the story. When I got a decent chance at it, it moved quickly and the showdown with Nick in the alley was priceless.
3.5*
Curtis is a hard worker, having carved a niche for himself among the local businesses - fixing, buying, delivering, problem solving on a smaller scale.
Riley's more of a mystery and the most I felt I knew about him came in a few sentences towards the end - would have loved more about the sexy cowboy!
Struggled to get into it, but that may have been my available time rather than the story. When I got a decent chance at it, it moved quickly and the showdown with Nick in the alley was priceless.
3.5*
February 8, 2015
4.5* This is a great addition to the With A Kick Series, probably my favourite so far, Clare managed to deal with a serious subject perfectly. I loved Curtis and Riley, their romance was very sweet and heartfelt. When Riley got the "gang" together is was bloody brilliant, getting to hear from my lovely Nuri again made my day. I can't wait to see what happens with the rest of the series :)
April 20, 2019
I was reading the With A Kick series an at Pluck and Play, I became saturated. After a break, I plan to return to the series.
maybe
October 9, 2018Freebie at give-away right now: https://claims.prolificworks.com/gg/E...
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