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Lobster Cove #1
Welcome to Lobster Cove
When following your dream lands you in Lobster Cove, Maine, anything is possible.
After gaining custody of his younger brother, Boone Jensen moves to a unique LGBT community on the coast of Maine. There, he hopes to find work as a stonemason, heal his broken heart and give his brother a safe place to call home.
Life was good in New York City for chef Dante Madia, until his business partner betrayed him. Determined to trust only himself, Dante risks everything on a new restaurant venture in a small fishing village built on acceptance.
Neither man is looking for love, but in a town like Lobster Cove, secret dreams have the ability to become realities.
After gaining custody of his younger brother, Boone Jensen moves to a unique LGBT community on the coast of Maine. There, he hopes to find work as a stonemason, heal his broken heart and give his brother a safe place to call home.
Life was good in New York City for chef Dante Madia, until his business partner betrayed him. Determined to trust only himself, Dante risks everything on a new restaurant venture in a small fishing village built on acceptance.
Neither man is looking for love, but in a town like Lobster Cove, secret dreams have the ability to become realities.
91 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2015
About the author
Carol Lynne
258 books1,197 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
erotic & gay romances
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 4, 2015
~2.5~
First of all, I want to move to Lobster Cove. Yesterday.
Lobster Cove is a gay mecca of friendly, sexy, and successful. All the houses have red doors. You do need to fill out an application to live there though, but I bet if I brought my two awesome dogs along, I could get in.
This book is cute. It's just not very interesting.
Boone moves to Lobster Cove with his teen brother Laddy. Laddy has Down syndrome and is all kinds of adorable.
Dante leaves New York after being screwed over by his business partner and friend. Dante was a foster kid and doesn't believe anyone could love him.
It's a tired trope, and it doesn't work well here.
The relationship doesn't develop naturally, and there is no chemistry between the men. The steam level is fairly low. The immediate talk of love felt forced, as did Dante's resistance to being in a relationship. It felt too sudden and contrived.
I never connected with these characters. Boone and Dante are predictable and one-dimensional.
I liked Dante's friend Ava and Laddy (who was basically the third MC and more present than either Boone or Dante), but it wasn't enough to save what is essentially an uninspired, generic story.
First of all, I want to move to Lobster Cove. Yesterday.
Lobster Cove is a gay mecca of friendly, sexy, and successful. All the houses have red doors. You do need to fill out an application to live there though, but I bet if I brought my two awesome dogs along, I could get in.
This book is cute. It's just not very interesting.
Boone moves to Lobster Cove with his teen brother Laddy. Laddy has Down syndrome and is all kinds of adorable.
Dante leaves New York after being screwed over by his business partner and friend. Dante was a foster kid and doesn't believe anyone could love him.
It's a tired trope, and it doesn't work well here.
The relationship doesn't develop naturally, and there is no chemistry between the men. The steam level is fairly low. The immediate talk of love felt forced, as did Dante's resistance to being in a relationship. It felt too sudden and contrived.
I never connected with these characters. Boone and Dante are predictable and one-dimensional.
I liked Dante's friend Ava and Laddy (who was basically the third MC and more present than either Boone or Dante), but it wasn't enough to save what is essentially an uninspired, generic story.
March 14, 2016
Carry On Cattle Valley...
I'm not sure how this happened but when I originally posted this review the first half of it came up missing. So now here it is in it's entirety.
So is anyone but me old enough to remember the British series of movies that were referred to as the 'Carry On Movies'. I know I'm showing my age here because first it was Sherry Lewis and Lambchop and now it's a series of movies that ironically actually started the same year as me...1959. Yep, me, Carry On movies and Barbie. It's turning into quit the year.
But, what you might wonder, does all this have to do with Lobster Cove? Well, we can call it Lobster Cove and we can say this is the first book in the Lobster Cove series because technically it is, but in reality it's Cattle Valley with a little change of scenery and some new faces thrown into the mix. The stories follow the same basic format and some of the Cattle Valley regulars show up from time to time, although none of them were on page for this book, I have little fear that we'll see them in future books and that's cool. I'm a Cattle Valley addict so give me my fix.
This story was all about the new characters. We have Dante and his feisty best friend Ava. Dante is relocating from New York to open up a small upscale restaurant in Lobster Cove and Ava is his sister by choice and what else do Dante and Ava have in common, you might ask...well they both got screwed over by Dante's best friend and business partner. Dante's leaving town and Ava needing a change of scenery decides that he's not leaving without her...end of story...done deal. And that is how these two ended up in Lobster Cove, Maine...hey, do you think this is anywhere near Cabot Cove because then maybe we could get a visit from Jessica Fletcher, you know star of Murder She Wrote. That would be so cool and yes, I do know that Jessica Fletcher's not real but neither is Lobster Cove. So from that perspective anything's possible isn't it?
Sorry, I squirreled, back to our story. Along with Dante and Ava we get to meet Boone and his brother Landon or Laddy as Boone likes to call him. Laddy is adorable and deals with the challenges of Downs Syndrome I believe he is on the higher end of the functioning scale from what we are given to understand.
As well we get peeks here and there at some of the characters from the previous book 'Journey to Lobster Cove' which was the connecting book between the original series 'Cattle Valley' and this first book of the 'Lobster Cover' series.
Rating this book was a bit of a challenge for me because when I compare it to other books that I've read it's definitely not 5 stars but it's not 1 star either. So I decided the best way for me to rate this book was to compare it to where it came from Cattle Valley and in the scheme of the Cattle Valley books it had a bit more merit for me. One because it's Maine and well...Jessica Fletcher lived in Maine right, so that gets it points right there. two I just seem to be addicted to these books and no I don't know why. Now number three and this is the kicker the reason that this book got 3.5 stars from me and not the usual 2 or 3. I just adored Ava and Laddy. I liked them both and want to see more of them...and...well...dammit, there were kittens and who doesn't love kittens?
3.5 stars given on BL round down here on GR because of the lack of 1/2 stars.
I'm not sure how this happened but when I originally posted this review the first half of it came up missing. So now here it is in it's entirety.
So is anyone but me old enough to remember the British series of movies that were referred to as the 'Carry On Movies'. I know I'm showing my age here because first it was Sherry Lewis and Lambchop and now it's a series of movies that ironically actually started the same year as me...1959. Yep, me, Carry On movies and Barbie. It's turning into quit the year.
But, what you might wonder, does all this have to do with Lobster Cove? Well, we can call it Lobster Cove and we can say this is the first book in the Lobster Cove series because technically it is, but in reality it's Cattle Valley with a little change of scenery and some new faces thrown into the mix. The stories follow the same basic format and some of the Cattle Valley regulars show up from time to time, although none of them were on page for this book, I have little fear that we'll see them in future books and that's cool. I'm a Cattle Valley addict so give me my fix.
This story was all about the new characters. We have Dante and his feisty best friend Ava. Dante is relocating from New York to open up a small upscale restaurant in Lobster Cove and Ava is his sister by choice and what else do Dante and Ava have in common, you might ask...well they both got screwed over by Dante's best friend and business partner. Dante's leaving town and Ava needing a change of scenery decides that he's not leaving without her...end of story...done deal. And that is how these two ended up in Lobster Cove, Maine...hey, do you think this is anywhere near Cabot Cove because then maybe we could get a visit from Jessica Fletcher, you know star of Murder She Wrote. That would be so cool and yes, I do know that Jessica Fletcher's not real but neither is Lobster Cove. So from that perspective anything's possible isn't it?
Sorry, I squirreled, back to our story. Along with Dante and Ava we get to meet Boone and his brother Landon or Laddy as Boone likes to call him. Laddy is adorable and deals with the challenges of Downs Syndrome I believe he is on the higher end of the functioning scale from what we are given to understand.
As well we get peeks here and there at some of the characters from the previous book 'Journey to Lobster Cove' which was the connecting book between the original series 'Cattle Valley' and this first book of the 'Lobster Cover' series.
Rating this book was a bit of a challenge for me because when I compare it to other books that I've read it's definitely not 5 stars but it's not 1 star either. So I decided the best way for me to rate this book was to compare it to where it came from Cattle Valley and in the scheme of the Cattle Valley books it had a bit more merit for me. One because it's Maine and well...Jessica Fletcher lived in Maine right, so that gets it points right there. two I just seem to be addicted to these books and no I don't know why. Now number three and this is the kicker the reason that this book got 3.5 stars from me and not the usual 2 or 3. I just adored Ava and Laddy. I liked them both and want to see more of them...and...well...dammit, there were kittens and who doesn't love kittens?
3.5 stars given on BL round down here on GR because of the lack of 1/2 stars.
April 6, 2015
I'm le bored. Seriously... I could draw a more interesting character than either of these two MCs with my eyes closed (and the extent of my artistic abilities is stick figures - bad ones). Thankfully Laddy is more fully realized (he sort of steals the show).
But, you know, this one does have the whole gay mecca thing going for it. If Lobster Cove were a real place, I'd totally live there in a house with a red door.
But, you know, this one does have the whole gay mecca thing going for it. If Lobster Cove were a real place, I'd totally live there in a house with a red door.
April 11, 2015
Lobster Cove is the opposite of what I’ve come to expect from small towns in gay romance. Far from close-minded, this is a small town that is actually being built on acceptance, particularly for the LGBT community, but also extending outward as we find when Boone moves to town with his brother Laddy, who has Downs syndrome. I haven’t read Carol Lynne’s Cattle Valley books, of which this is a spin off, and although there are a couple of references to characters there, I didn’t feel as if I was missing anything.
Since the town is just starting a lot of new people have moved there, including Dante, who has left his popular NYC restaurant after being betrayed by a business partner, and is looking forward to starting fresh and building a new restaurant. Boone is the stone mason working for him and it is lust at first sight for the two men. They quickly act on their feelings after a party at Dante’s house and there is undeniable chemistry between the two men.
There is insta-love on Boone’s part and he nearly demands immediate commitment from Dante who, understandable is very slow to trust and not ready for anything serious, regardless of his feelings for Boone. I understood Boone’s logic that he cannot get involved with anyone who doesn’t accept that Laddy’s wellbeing will always be Boone’s priority, but I was with Dante, feeling that Boone pushed just a bit too hard for a first date with someone he knew very little about. The fact that Boone is living for his future, while Dante is being held back by his past, is one very large obstacle that puts a stop to things as quickly as they begin. Lobster Cove being what it is though, the two men can’t avoid each other, especially when the town needs to pull together to help when there is trouble.
In addition to the MC’s, I liked both Laddy and Ava, Dante’s straight foster sister who moves to town with him. I felt all the characters were realistically portrayed, but for my taste the relationship moved rather quickly. There are brief glimpses of a number of residents that span the LGBT spectrum and will likely make for interesting stories in the future as well. Overall I enjoyed this quick read and was intrigued by glimpses of what the future of the series may hold.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
Since the town is just starting a lot of new people have moved there, including Dante, who has left his popular NYC restaurant after being betrayed by a business partner, and is looking forward to starting fresh and building a new restaurant. Boone is the stone mason working for him and it is lust at first sight for the two men. They quickly act on their feelings after a party at Dante’s house and there is undeniable chemistry between the two men.
There is insta-love on Boone’s part and he nearly demands immediate commitment from Dante who, understandable is very slow to trust and not ready for anything serious, regardless of his feelings for Boone. I understood Boone’s logic that he cannot get involved with anyone who doesn’t accept that Laddy’s wellbeing will always be Boone’s priority, but I was with Dante, feeling that Boone pushed just a bit too hard for a first date with someone he knew very little about. The fact that Boone is living for his future, while Dante is being held back by his past, is one very large obstacle that puts a stop to things as quickly as they begin. Lobster Cove being what it is though, the two men can’t avoid each other, especially when the town needs to pull together to help when there is trouble.
In addition to the MC’s, I liked both Laddy and Ava, Dante’s straight foster sister who moves to town with him. I felt all the characters were realistically portrayed, but for my taste the relationship moved rather quickly. There are brief glimpses of a number of residents that span the LGBT spectrum and will likely make for interesting stories in the future as well. Overall I enjoyed this quick read and was intrigued by glimpses of what the future of the series may hold.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
May 20, 2015
Rather disappointed in this one. 1.5 stars
I know not to expect much from these books now, but they normally still have a little something that keeps me coming back. Sadly this one had nothing.
At first I was excited with the start of this one. I'm a sucker for kids or adults with medical difficulties, so hearing about Laddy had me happy. But sadly nothing felt right. We are never told Laddys age so at first I thought he was maybe 10 or so, then later it says he is a teenager and its implied he is late teens but again no real proof. The dialogue used for Laddy never fit in with my ideas for him. In fact apart from a brief mention that sometimes it was hard to understand him, I found it hard to believe he wasn't just a normal teenager. It seemed like the author decided to use a down syndrome character without bothering to think it through.
As for the romance between Boone and Dante, well for me there wasn't one. Just some very quick sex, seriously they are adults that couldn't wait to go somewhere more private than a back yard? Then when they get some privacy we are treated to a quick monologue of why Dante can't let himself fall in love before another sex scene. For me that would of totally killed the mood.
This one failed for me all round, but no doubt given enough time I will end up fooling myself into getting the next one.
I know not to expect much from these books now, but they normally still have a little something that keeps me coming back. Sadly this one had nothing.
At first I was excited with the start of this one. I'm a sucker for kids or adults with medical difficulties, so hearing about Laddy had me happy. But sadly nothing felt right. We are never told Laddys age so at first I thought he was maybe 10 or so, then later it says he is a teenager and its implied he is late teens but again no real proof. The dialogue used for Laddy never fit in with my ideas for him. In fact apart from a brief mention that sometimes it was hard to understand him, I found it hard to believe he wasn't just a normal teenager. It seemed like the author decided to use a down syndrome character without bothering to think it through.
As for the romance between Boone and Dante, well for me there wasn't one. Just some very quick sex, seriously they are adults that couldn't wait to go somewhere more private than a back yard? Then when they get some privacy we are treated to a quick monologue of why Dante can't let himself fall in love before another sex scene. For me that would of totally killed the mood.
This one failed for me all round, but no doubt given enough time I will end up fooling myself into getting the next one.
May 10, 2015
The Blogger Girls
I am looking forward to more from the residents of Lobster Cove and reconnecting with the folks at Cattle Valley, but this installment fell a little flat for me. It was probably all me, as I’ve come to expect a little angst and lots of hard work for my guys to make it work, and this time it didn’t quite happen.
Dante and Boone are really sweet together, and with Boone’s little brother, Laddy, it was very cute, but it wasn’t very interesting and it took me too long to finish this short story. This is not normal for me with this series (Cattle Valley) so I will chalk it up to an anomaly and will eagerly await the next book. I went back and looked over my reviews of Cattle Valley and find that I either 5 starred and loved them to the moon and back, or just liked them so, so.
I was thinking that is probably how life is in general. I can’t expect every resident of Lobster Cove to have a heartbreaking story, and if they did, that would grow old fast, so I am going to just accept that Dante and Boone have it easier than many and just move on.
I am looking forward to more from the residents of Lobster Cove and reconnecting with the folks at Cattle Valley, but this installment fell a little flat for me. It was probably all me, as I’ve come to expect a little angst and lots of hard work for my guys to make it work, and this time it didn’t quite happen.
Dante and Boone are really sweet together, and with Boone’s little brother, Laddy, it was very cute, but it wasn’t very interesting and it took me too long to finish this short story. This is not normal for me with this series (Cattle Valley) so I will chalk it up to an anomaly and will eagerly await the next book. I went back and looked over my reviews of Cattle Valley and find that I either 5 starred and loved them to the moon and back, or just liked them so, so.
I was thinking that is probably how life is in general. I can’t expect every resident of Lobster Cove to have a heartbreaking story, and if they did, that would grow old fast, so I am going to just accept that Dante and Boone have it easier than many and just move on.
August 10, 2015
Laddy
I Love Laddy!!
Lobster Cove sounds like an amazing town.
the Mc's just didn't do it for me...
I wanted to like them but is was just meh..
can't wait to see if the fire chief ends up with Ava or a guy or i guess another threesome?? (I hope not!)
And that Zander kid i want to read his story!!
I Love Laddy!!
Lobster Cove sounds like an amazing town.
the Mc's just didn't do it for me...
I wanted to like them but is was just meh..
can't wait to see if the fire chief ends up with Ava or a guy or i guess another threesome?? (I hope not!)
And that Zander kid i want to read his story!!
November 11, 2016
Me encanta tener un nuevo pueblo como Cattle Valley, creo que esto dará pie a crear historias más interesantes, aunque el formato de la autora se mantenga.
En este caso tenemos como pareja principal a Dante y Boone. Dante fue nombrado de vez en cuando a lo largo de la saga y ahora finalmente podemos tener su propia historia. En cuanto a Boone es un nuevo personaje que llega a Lobster Cove buscando un lugar tranquilo donde pueda vivir con su hermano Laddy, que tiene síndrome de Down.
Creo que Boone es un hermano perfecto, pero lo es porque también es una excelente persona, él se preocupa constantemente por los sentimientos de los demás, y creo que fue por eso por lo que llega tan hondo al corazón de Dante, quien cree que no podrá nunca sentir algo por alguien.
Dante tiene un pasado de lo más complicado, y la razón por la cual llega a Lobster Cove tampoco es simple, pero al menos no se ha echado abajo y quiere seguir con su pasión, que es la cocina. Sin embargo, el destino le tiene reservado mucho más que solo cumplir su sueño, porque el amor llega a su puerta sin que él lo vea venir.
Esta historia resulta de lo más interesante para empezar a conocer el pueblo de Lobster Cove, y también a personajes que probablemente tendrán su propia historia muy pronto. Muy recomendable.
En este caso tenemos como pareja principal a Dante y Boone. Dante fue nombrado de vez en cuando a lo largo de la saga y ahora finalmente podemos tener su propia historia. En cuanto a Boone es un nuevo personaje que llega a Lobster Cove buscando un lugar tranquilo donde pueda vivir con su hermano Laddy, que tiene síndrome de Down.
Creo que Boone es un hermano perfecto, pero lo es porque también es una excelente persona, él se preocupa constantemente por los sentimientos de los demás, y creo que fue por eso por lo que llega tan hondo al corazón de Dante, quien cree que no podrá nunca sentir algo por alguien.
Dante tiene un pasado de lo más complicado, y la razón por la cual llega a Lobster Cove tampoco es simple, pero al menos no se ha echado abajo y quiere seguir con su pasión, que es la cocina. Sin embargo, el destino le tiene reservado mucho más que solo cumplir su sueño, porque el amor llega a su puerta sin que él lo vea venir.
Esta historia resulta de lo más interesante para empezar a conocer el pueblo de Lobster Cove, y también a personajes que probablemente tendrán su propia historia muy pronto. Muy recomendable.
March 28, 2016
It's going to be difficult sustaining this series - no cowboys or college & nothing really to take their place yet - but I still enjoyed the start of this new adventure.
May 22, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is first of Ms. Lynne's books I've read in quite a while and I'm kicking myself for omitting her from my TBR pile. When I first started reading M/M erotica, I devoured her books as soon as I was able to download them. That being said, I found other sub-genres and, well, you know how that goes.
When I saw that the blog had the opportunity to review one of Ms. Lynne's books, I immediately said said without even reading the blurb. I admit, I'm having a fan girl moment!!!
On to the review.
Lobster Cove is a town that is going to be a community like Cattle Valley (I must admit, I haven't read the Cattle Valley books, but they will soon be downloaded to my Kindle) in that it will be LBGTQ friendly.
Boone Jensen is looking for a new start. His mother has passed away, he's now the guardian of his teenage brother, Landon a/k/a Laddy, and his lover of three years left him because he didn't want the responsiblity of caring for a teen. When he hears about Lobster Cove, he and Laddy set out for this little town in Maine, hoping that a fresh start will do both of them a world of good.
Dante Madia has just sold the one thing that he was most proud of: the restaurant that bore his name. His best friend, Scott, had embezzled money from him for years and when he disappeared, so did most of Dante's cash. Left with restaurant and little else, Dante's pins all his hopes in Lobster Cove.
Boone and Dante have instant attraction and yet both are wary because of the hurts they have both faced in the past. Ms. Lynne did an excellent job of walking the reader through this complex relationship. Boone doesn't want to rush into anything because he doesn't want to confuse his brother and Dante's trust issues are easy to spot.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more about the life and loves of Lobster Cove.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
This is first of Ms. Lynne's books I've read in quite a while and I'm kicking myself for omitting her from my TBR pile. When I first started reading M/M erotica, I devoured her books as soon as I was able to download them. That being said, I found other sub-genres and, well, you know how that goes.
When I saw that the blog had the opportunity to review one of Ms. Lynne's books, I immediately said said without even reading the blurb. I admit, I'm having a fan girl moment!!!
On to the review.
Lobster Cove is a town that is going to be a community like Cattle Valley (I must admit, I haven't read the Cattle Valley books, but they will soon be downloaded to my Kindle) in that it will be LBGTQ friendly.
Boone Jensen is looking for a new start. His mother has passed away, he's now the guardian of his teenage brother, Landon a/k/a Laddy, and his lover of three years left him because he didn't want the responsiblity of caring for a teen. When he hears about Lobster Cove, he and Laddy set out for this little town in Maine, hoping that a fresh start will do both of them a world of good.
Dante Madia has just sold the one thing that he was most proud of: the restaurant that bore his name. His best friend, Scott, had embezzled money from him for years and when he disappeared, so did most of Dante's cash. Left with restaurant and little else, Dante's pins all his hopes in Lobster Cove.
Boone and Dante have instant attraction and yet both are wary because of the hurts they have both faced in the past. Ms. Lynne did an excellent job of walking the reader through this complex relationship. Boone doesn't want to rush into anything because he doesn't want to confuse his brother and Dante's trust issues are easy to spot.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more about the life and loves of Lobster Cove.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
June 25, 2015
Read for The Novel Approach.
Carol Lynne is not new to writing about LGBT communities. If you’re not familiar with her work, she has another series (thirty books) called Cattle Valley that is a safe haven for gay men. The community expands in this book to Lobster Cove, Maine. Now, I love Maine. It’s pretty much heaven on earth. And the idea of an LGBT community is perfect. I did like this book and the premise, but at times it was slow.
Boone moves to Lobster Cove with his younger brother, Laddy, of whom he has full custody. He is to work as a stonemason at the new restaurant in town, and then find another job to support him and his brother so he can continue to live there. Dante is a chef from NYC who moves to Lobster Cove for a change of pace after he loses everything in NYC. Of course we know the two men are going to meet and hit it off.
What really made the book for me was honestly Laddy and his relationship with his brother. Laddy has Down Syndrome, and his worldview is honest and sweet. He is portrayed in what I thought of as a positive manner, and the community really rallies around him once they get to know him. I loved that. And I loved that no one talked down to him because of his disability. They just accept him as part of their community and keep an eye out for him. His friendship with Ava is great, and even though she seemed pushy at first in going with Dante to Maine, I’m glad she did. She takes to Laddy and treats him like a regular person.
I guess the fact that I talk about the secondary characters more than the main characters says something simultaneously positive and negative about the book. The secondary characters are fully realized and developed, and they grow on you. The main characters are a bit lackluster, though, and I got kind of bored whenever Laddy wasn’t on the page.
I will continue to read this series, however I hope the pace is better in the next book, and the main characters are more engaging.
Carol Lynne is not new to writing about LGBT communities. If you’re not familiar with her work, she has another series (thirty books) called Cattle Valley that is a safe haven for gay men. The community expands in this book to Lobster Cove, Maine. Now, I love Maine. It’s pretty much heaven on earth. And the idea of an LGBT community is perfect. I did like this book and the premise, but at times it was slow.
Boone moves to Lobster Cove with his younger brother, Laddy, of whom he has full custody. He is to work as a stonemason at the new restaurant in town, and then find another job to support him and his brother so he can continue to live there. Dante is a chef from NYC who moves to Lobster Cove for a change of pace after he loses everything in NYC. Of course we know the two men are going to meet and hit it off.
What really made the book for me was honestly Laddy and his relationship with his brother. Laddy has Down Syndrome, and his worldview is honest and sweet. He is portrayed in what I thought of as a positive manner, and the community really rallies around him once they get to know him. I loved that. And I loved that no one talked down to him because of his disability. They just accept him as part of their community and keep an eye out for him. His friendship with Ava is great, and even though she seemed pushy at first in going with Dante to Maine, I’m glad she did. She takes to Laddy and treats him like a regular person.
I guess the fact that I talk about the secondary characters more than the main characters says something simultaneously positive and negative about the book. The secondary characters are fully realized and developed, and they grow on you. The main characters are a bit lackluster, though, and I got kind of bored whenever Laddy wasn’t on the page.
I will continue to read this series, however I hope the pace is better in the next book, and the main characters are more engaging.
May 13, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
This was my first read from Ms. Lynne and I must say I know without a doubt it will not be my last. I loved Welcome to Lobster Cove.
Lobster Cove is a town that is being redeveloped as a LGBTQ friendly community. After Boone's mother dies living him with custody of his special needs brother, his current boyfriend Michael can't handle the changes and leaves Boone. Boone decides that getting out of the city is what's best for both of them.
Boone get's a job working for Dante, who is opening a small restaurant. Their attraction is immediate but things from Dante's past keep him from falling completely. Their journey is sweet but has it's bumps along the way.
I loved Laddy's character and I loved that the author included his special needs within the story. It's not something you would think you would find in a m/m or any romance story for that matter, but it added to the story and completely worked. The interactions with Laddy showed you that sometimes it's the simple things that make you smile. It did make me emotional at times and I may have shed a few tears. Overall a great read!
I will definitely be going to add more of Ms. Lynne's titles to my TBR list!
This was my first read from Ms. Lynne and I must say I know without a doubt it will not be my last. I loved Welcome to Lobster Cove.
Lobster Cove is a town that is being redeveloped as a LGBTQ friendly community. After Boone's mother dies living him with custody of his special needs brother, his current boyfriend Michael can't handle the changes and leaves Boone. Boone decides that getting out of the city is what's best for both of them.
Boone get's a job working for Dante, who is opening a small restaurant. Their attraction is immediate but things from Dante's past keep him from falling completely. Their journey is sweet but has it's bumps along the way.
I loved Laddy's character and I loved that the author included his special needs within the story. It's not something you would think you would find in a m/m or any romance story for that matter, but it added to the story and completely worked. The interactions with Laddy showed you that sometimes it's the simple things that make you smile. It did make me emotional at times and I may have shed a few tears. Overall a great read!
I will definitely be going to add more of Ms. Lynne's titles to my TBR list!
April 6, 2015
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian I Dig Good Books. I recieved this book from Totally Bound in exchange for my review.
Lobster Cove, a LGBT community on the coast of Maine, USA.
Boone arrives with his younger brother for a new start and a safe place to Landon to live.
Dante arrives after his best friend stole nearly everything from him.
The attraction between Boone and Dante is instant, no slow burn here. BUT I did feel the love bit came too hard, too fast and it almost came forced.
I loved Landon, and he alone saved this book from the DNF shelf. Landon's disability is dealt with here in a sensitive manner, and the town take to him beautifully.
The heat level is fairly low, the plot is low level too BUT it was a nice way to spend my lunch break and a great palate cleanser before jumping inot a longer, heavier book, hence the hangover cure shelf.
So, for a nice book,
3.5 stars.
**same worded review appears on Goodreads, Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk**
Lobster Cove, a LGBT community on the coast of Maine, USA.
Boone arrives with his younger brother for a new start and a safe place to Landon to live.
Dante arrives after his best friend stole nearly everything from him.
The attraction between Boone and Dante is instant, no slow burn here. BUT I did feel the love bit came too hard, too fast and it almost came forced.
I loved Landon, and he alone saved this book from the DNF shelf. Landon's disability is dealt with here in a sensitive manner, and the town take to him beautifully.
The heat level is fairly low, the plot is low level too BUT it was a nice way to spend my lunch break and a great palate cleanser before jumping inot a longer, heavier book, hence the hangover cure shelf.
So, for a nice book,
3.5 stars.
**same worded review appears on Goodreads, Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk**
May 6, 2015
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
This was a short but sweet read. I was having some trouble getting into several books and was frustrated by every book being a stinker. THIS book however was not a stinker. I needed the instant lust between the characters and I love the dynamics of the town and the people in it. This is the first book I have read by this author but not the last, I can’t wait for the next book.
Characters: The characters were well written and believable.
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: M/M Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
This was a short but sweet read. I was having some trouble getting into several books and was frustrated by every book being a stinker. THIS book however was not a stinker. I needed the instant lust between the characters and I love the dynamics of the town and the people in it. This is the first book I have read by this author but not the last, I can’t wait for the next book.
Characters: The characters were well written and believable.
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: M/M Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
May 24, 2015
Omg I loved this story.... second chances for Dante,Ava, Boone and Laddy. To let go out the past, be open free and safe. To be the family they wanted and needed. Fantastic kick off to a new series!!!!
I can not wait for more
Outstanding
I can not wait for more
Outstanding
March 21, 2017
Hmmm... I was enjoying this story just fine... and popped over to see who is going to star in the next book, besides Laddy... and there isn't a "next" book... *headdesk* :(
OK, trying to get over my disappointment here and give my thoughts on this story! I think Laddy and Ava stole the show, but, I really liked Boone and Dante together. No pressure... get to know each other... have HOT sex... fear steps in and they go their separate ways... Laddy saves the day (in a round about way) and then more HOT sex and a VERY strong possibility of a HEA! Yeah, I like major action books as a general rule, but once in a while a gal just wants to sit down and read about people working hard to overcome their pasts to have a better future! *grin*
OK, trying to get over my disappointment here and give my thoughts on this story! I think Laddy and Ava stole the show, but, I really liked Boone and Dante together. No pressure... get to know each other... have HOT sex... fear steps in and they go their separate ways... Laddy saves the day (in a round about way) and then more HOT sex and a VERY strong possibility of a HEA! Yeah, I like major action books as a general rule, but once in a while a gal just wants to sit down and read about people working hard to overcome their pasts to have a better future! *grin*
July 25, 2017
Normally I love Carol Lynne but this one just fell short for me.
August 18, 2018
An easy read, with low angst and instant attraction.
March 14, 2017
3,5 stars.
April 14, 2015
Original Blog Post: eARC Review: Welcome to Lobster Creek By Carol Lynne
Reviewed by: Giles West
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Welcome to Lobster Cove is an engrossing short story by author Carol Lynne. So engrossing in fact that I lament the fact the author chose not to make it a full-length novel. There was definitely enough in the story to warrant a longer treatment. This is the first work I’ve read by this particular author and I must admit I wonder at her reasons for making it a short story. While it is her decision to make, as a reader I feel slightly short-changed by it after having felt invested in both the story and characters. But, such is life.
I need to explain that because this book is still in the editing phase, I can only really comment on story and character. The writing style of the author has allowed me to immerse myself into her story and I don’t remember being jarred out of it at any point, which is always a good thing. It does, as aforementioned, need editing, but any good work needs that and hopefully mistakes and omissions will be fixed and cleaned up.
When I first started the short story I must admit I was concerned it would be a somewhat stereotypical one with an older brother taking care of a younger one, albeit one with Down’s Syndrome. But at it’s heart Welcome to Lobster Cove is about a group of people who are all broken in some way. Our lead, Boone is dealing with a love affair gone bad, while Chef Dante is learning how to trust again after a life filled with betrayals. Their stories and characters do seem vivid, real, and alive and the reader cares about them and the whole town of Lobster Cove. Laddy (Boone’s brother who has Down’s Syndrome) and Eva add a lot to the story as well.
The author does a wonderful job of setting up her world and actually manages to convey a great deal in a limited number of pages, while definitely leaving the reader wanting more. This is supposed to be the first book in a series and the various citizens of Lobster Cove are introduced in a way that makes one look forward to learning more about them and their town. There are also sex scenes a’plenty. There are well written sex scenes in stories and badly written ones which some books would do well to leave out. The sex scenes in this short story are not only well written and sexy, but also serve to bring out more information about the main characters.
Overall the story makes for a nice, easy, and entertaining read. I still can’t help but think it would be great as a full-length novel. A slowing down of the pace of it would work so well with the subject matter and adding more details would just enhance the reading experience of such an engaging story. However, there is an art to writing a short story and the author manages to convey a lot with few words. It is a complete narrative, albeit it one in need of editing—which will be happening. The characters are fully formed and it’s a plus that as reader I want to know more about them and the town.
So, for reasons already stated, I will rate this book solely on character and story development. I am greatly impressed by how much the author has managed to say and how well she says it.
Even though I am still left wishing it had been a full-length novel, my final rating for Welcome to Lobster Cove is four and a half stars out of five.
**** and a half.
Reviewed by: Giles West
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Welcome to Lobster Cove is an engrossing short story by author Carol Lynne. So engrossing in fact that I lament the fact the author chose not to make it a full-length novel. There was definitely enough in the story to warrant a longer treatment. This is the first work I’ve read by this particular author and I must admit I wonder at her reasons for making it a short story. While it is her decision to make, as a reader I feel slightly short-changed by it after having felt invested in both the story and characters. But, such is life.
I need to explain that because this book is still in the editing phase, I can only really comment on story and character. The writing style of the author has allowed me to immerse myself into her story and I don’t remember being jarred out of it at any point, which is always a good thing. It does, as aforementioned, need editing, but any good work needs that and hopefully mistakes and omissions will be fixed and cleaned up.
When I first started the short story I must admit I was concerned it would be a somewhat stereotypical one with an older brother taking care of a younger one, albeit one with Down’s Syndrome. But at it’s heart Welcome to Lobster Cove is about a group of people who are all broken in some way. Our lead, Boone is dealing with a love affair gone bad, while Chef Dante is learning how to trust again after a life filled with betrayals. Their stories and characters do seem vivid, real, and alive and the reader cares about them and the whole town of Lobster Cove. Laddy (Boone’s brother who has Down’s Syndrome) and Eva add a lot to the story as well.
The author does a wonderful job of setting up her world and actually manages to convey a great deal in a limited number of pages, while definitely leaving the reader wanting more. This is supposed to be the first book in a series and the various citizens of Lobster Cove are introduced in a way that makes one look forward to learning more about them and their town. There are also sex scenes a’plenty. There are well written sex scenes in stories and badly written ones which some books would do well to leave out. The sex scenes in this short story are not only well written and sexy, but also serve to bring out more information about the main characters.
Overall the story makes for a nice, easy, and entertaining read. I still can’t help but think it would be great as a full-length novel. A slowing down of the pace of it would work so well with the subject matter and adding more details would just enhance the reading experience of such an engaging story. However, there is an art to writing a short story and the author manages to convey a lot with few words. It is a complete narrative, albeit it one in need of editing—which will be happening. The characters are fully formed and it’s a plus that as reader I want to know more about them and the town.
So, for reasons already stated, I will rate this book solely on character and story development. I am greatly impressed by how much the author has managed to say and how well she says it.
Even though I am still left wishing it had been a full-length novel, my final rating for Welcome to Lobster Cove is four and a half stars out of five.
**** and a half.
March 2, 2016
“The truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive yourself, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward.” ~ Steve Maraboli
Cullen Bryant has been in love with Joseph Allenbrand for a long time. Cullen suffered through a lot for Joseph's safety, but he doesn't resent him for it. All he wants is for Joseph to let go of his guilt for not being able to protect Cullen and admit that, despite their age difference, his feelings for Cullen are just as strong as Cullen's are for him. Despite Cullen's best efforts, if anything, Joseph is pushing him even further away.
Cullen has changed a lot since he was sent to Cattle Valley where he could be safe. Cullen has become a strong, confident young man who is respected and appreciated by other Cattle Valley residents. He's put the past behind him, but he can't put his feelings for Joseph aside. It was his choice to stay on the streets to protect Joseph from his pimp and he's never regretted it. When he has an opportunity to see Joseph again, Joseph practically ignores him and when Cullen confronts him about his feelings, Joseph shoots him down telling him to move on. Cullen has no alternative but to try to do so. Fortunately he has a new project to keep him occupied. Due to his growing expertise at building and scheduling, Asa Montgomery has enlisted him to help build a new community similar to Cattle Valley in Lobster Cove, Maine. Cullen is awed by the opportunity and the faith Asa is putting in him and is determined to do the best job he can.
Joseph is a mess. He loves Cullen, but doesn't think he deserves to be with him after all the years he let Cullen sacrifice himself to keep Joseph safe. He regrets not being able to save him sooner and can't get beyond that guilt. Joseph knows how Cullen feels about him, which is one of the main reasons he sent Cullen away to live in Cattle Valley. Joseph wanted him to be safe, but he also wanted him gone so Joseph didn't have to be tempted. Even though Joseph tells Cullen to move on, he is upset when Cullen goes out with someone else. When a crisis occurs at the Washington DC shelter, Joseph is forced to move his charges to the new community starting up in Lobster Cove, Maine. Joseph knows Cullen is there and he has some big decisions to make before it's too late and he loses Cullen forever.
I have read and enjoyed all of the books in the Cattle Valley series, but I especially like the concept of Lobster Cove. It still boggles my mind that Asa can afford to buy an entire town! I'm looking forward to reading about its development and meeting the new characters who will surely be coming and, hopefully, visiting with some of the Cattle Valley folks as well. Thank you, Carol, for what promises to be a great new slant on the Cattle Valley series.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
Cullen Bryant has been in love with Joseph Allenbrand for a long time. Cullen suffered through a lot for Joseph's safety, but he doesn't resent him for it. All he wants is for Joseph to let go of his guilt for not being able to protect Cullen and admit that, despite their age difference, his feelings for Cullen are just as strong as Cullen's are for him. Despite Cullen's best efforts, if anything, Joseph is pushing him even further away.
Cullen has changed a lot since he was sent to Cattle Valley where he could be safe. Cullen has become a strong, confident young man who is respected and appreciated by other Cattle Valley residents. He's put the past behind him, but he can't put his feelings for Joseph aside. It was his choice to stay on the streets to protect Joseph from his pimp and he's never regretted it. When he has an opportunity to see Joseph again, Joseph practically ignores him and when Cullen confronts him about his feelings, Joseph shoots him down telling him to move on. Cullen has no alternative but to try to do so. Fortunately he has a new project to keep him occupied. Due to his growing expertise at building and scheduling, Asa Montgomery has enlisted him to help build a new community similar to Cattle Valley in Lobster Cove, Maine. Cullen is awed by the opportunity and the faith Asa is putting in him and is determined to do the best job he can.
Joseph is a mess. He loves Cullen, but doesn't think he deserves to be with him after all the years he let Cullen sacrifice himself to keep Joseph safe. He regrets not being able to save him sooner and can't get beyond that guilt. Joseph knows how Cullen feels about him, which is one of the main reasons he sent Cullen away to live in Cattle Valley. Joseph wanted him to be safe, but he also wanted him gone so Joseph didn't have to be tempted. Even though Joseph tells Cullen to move on, he is upset when Cullen goes out with someone else. When a crisis occurs at the Washington DC shelter, Joseph is forced to move his charges to the new community starting up in Lobster Cove, Maine. Joseph knows Cullen is there and he has some big decisions to make before it's too late and he loses Cullen forever.
I have read and enjoyed all of the books in the Cattle Valley series, but I especially like the concept of Lobster Cove. It still boggles my mind that Asa can afford to buy an entire town! I'm looking forward to reading about its development and meeting the new characters who will surely be coming and, hopefully, visiting with some of the Cattle Valley folks as well. Thank you, Carol, for what promises to be a great new slant on the Cattle Valley series.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
May 7, 2015
3 heart review by Vicki
I have enjoyed reading Carol Lynne’s Cattle Valley books over the last year or so, I was quite excited to see she’s starting a spin-off series. The Cattle Valley books were good, but it is time for something new. In the last book, Journey to Lobster Cove, we learn how Asa Montgomery, the richest man in town, bought most of Lobster Cove, a small coastal town in Maine. He saw that Cattle Valley was about as full as it could be and they needed to start another similar safe community. At the same time, the LGBT shelter Joseph has been running begins to have some safety issues, and he reluctantly agrees that it is time to move. So the purchase of Lobster Cove is perfect all around.
This book, the first in the new Lobster Cove series, features Dante Madia, chef and restaurant owner from New York, and Boone Jensen, stonemason from Indiana. Boone has moved to Lobster Cove partly to find a new place for himself, but he also has custody of his teenage brother Landon, who has down syndrome. Boone feels the small town will be better for both of them, he finds some work and a small apartment and off they go. Dante has some issues with his former business partner in NYC stealing from him, hears that Lobster Cove might be a good place to start a new restaurant, and off he goes with his best friend Ava to Lobster Cove to start a new restaurant and a new life. Dante hires Boone to do some stone work in his new restaurant, Boone brings Laddy (Landon) along with him, and they all meet….
So I’ll stop there with the description because there isn’t much more to this story. At 91 pages it is short, and not a whole lot happens. It’s a simple story about two lonely men with some baggage, trying to see if their lives might fit together. Dante is pretty cold for a while, Boone is young and focused on Laddy. I almost felt like Laddy and Ava stole the show a bit, the only drama that happens is to Laddy. I never really felt the passion between Boone and Dante. We see a few of the residence of Lobster Cove, but nothing much really happens. I am hoping subsequent books will be more exciting.
If you are a fan of the Cattle Valley books you need to read this one, if you haven’t read them you probably should start with those. This one is a stand alone, since it’s the first book in a new series, but for someone just starting with this book I’m not sure you’ll really get a good feeling for what fantastic books Carol can write. There is nothing wrong with this one at all, it was just a little bland.
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!
I have enjoyed reading Carol Lynne’s Cattle Valley books over the last year or so, I was quite excited to see she’s starting a spin-off series. The Cattle Valley books were good, but it is time for something new. In the last book, Journey to Lobster Cove, we learn how Asa Montgomery, the richest man in town, bought most of Lobster Cove, a small coastal town in Maine. He saw that Cattle Valley was about as full as it could be and they needed to start another similar safe community. At the same time, the LGBT shelter Joseph has been running begins to have some safety issues, and he reluctantly agrees that it is time to move. So the purchase of Lobster Cove is perfect all around.
This book, the first in the new Lobster Cove series, features Dante Madia, chef and restaurant owner from New York, and Boone Jensen, stonemason from Indiana. Boone has moved to Lobster Cove partly to find a new place for himself, but he also has custody of his teenage brother Landon, who has down syndrome. Boone feels the small town will be better for both of them, he finds some work and a small apartment and off they go. Dante has some issues with his former business partner in NYC stealing from him, hears that Lobster Cove might be a good place to start a new restaurant, and off he goes with his best friend Ava to Lobster Cove to start a new restaurant and a new life. Dante hires Boone to do some stone work in his new restaurant, Boone brings Laddy (Landon) along with him, and they all meet….
So I’ll stop there with the description because there isn’t much more to this story. At 91 pages it is short, and not a whole lot happens. It’s a simple story about two lonely men with some baggage, trying to see if their lives might fit together. Dante is pretty cold for a while, Boone is young and focused on Laddy. I almost felt like Laddy and Ava stole the show a bit, the only drama that happens is to Laddy. I never really felt the passion between Boone and Dante. We see a few of the residence of Lobster Cove, but nothing much really happens. I am hoping subsequent books will be more exciting.
If you are a fan of the Cattle Valley books you need to read this one, if you haven’t read them you probably should start with those. This one is a stand alone, since it’s the first book in a new series, but for someone just starting with this book I’m not sure you’ll really get a good feeling for what fantastic books Carol can write. There is nothing wrong with this one at all, it was just a little bland.
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!
February 7, 2016
I do believe Ms. Lynn has a hit on her hands and a stellar start to a new series. Welcome to Lobster Cove not only serves as an introduction to the new LGBT-friendly community, it also gives us a look into the lives of two very different men with seemingly nothing in common but who find themselves drawn to one another despite their best intentions to stay focused on starting their lives anew in Lobster Cove.
Boone moved to Lobster Cove for work and in hopes of finding a safe place for his brother to live. Because his partner of three years dumped him when he gained custody of Laddy, his teenage brother with Downs’ Syndrome, Boone has no interest in romance. That is, until he meets his new boss, Dante. Although not recently dumped, Dante has had his trust shattered just as badly when his best friend and longtime business partner Scott left town with most of his money, forcing Dante to close his extremely successful New York restaurant. Adding insult to injury, Scott was cheating on Dante’s sister and he felt guilty for introducing Scott to Ava. Fortunately, Ava forced her way into Dante’s relocation to Lobster Cove and her smart mouth kept me entertained as I never knew what to expect from her. I will admit that I was surprised by how she took to Laddy almost immediately and both she and Dante showed no hesitation in accepting him. Not only did she serve as a buffer/sitter when Boone and Dante got the chance to be alone, but she proved to be vital to the success of Boone’s pursuit of Dante.
For the most part, the story flowed smoothly. There was a time or two where I felt as though I had missed a transition between scenes, but that ultimately had little effect on my overall enjoyment of the novella. The chemistry between Dante and Boone was great and made for some intense sexual interactions, especially when time was not on their side. Their relationship reservations were justified and fell in line with their pasts, especially when Ava provided Boone with her insight into Dante. And while I am looking forward to finding out whether or not Ava accepts the date request she received at the end of the book, what sold me on the Lobster Cove series was the way the community came together in Laddy and Boone’s time of need. I hope that future installments will allow readers to catch up with Boone and Dante and I look forward to meeting more of the residents of the Lobster Cove community.
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
Boone moved to Lobster Cove for work and in hopes of finding a safe place for his brother to live. Because his partner of three years dumped him when he gained custody of Laddy, his teenage brother with Downs’ Syndrome, Boone has no interest in romance. That is, until he meets his new boss, Dante. Although not recently dumped, Dante has had his trust shattered just as badly when his best friend and longtime business partner Scott left town with most of his money, forcing Dante to close his extremely successful New York restaurant. Adding insult to injury, Scott was cheating on Dante’s sister and he felt guilty for introducing Scott to Ava. Fortunately, Ava forced her way into Dante’s relocation to Lobster Cove and her smart mouth kept me entertained as I never knew what to expect from her. I will admit that I was surprised by how she took to Laddy almost immediately and both she and Dante showed no hesitation in accepting him. Not only did she serve as a buffer/sitter when Boone and Dante got the chance to be alone, but she proved to be vital to the success of Boone’s pursuit of Dante.
For the most part, the story flowed smoothly. There was a time or two where I felt as though I had missed a transition between scenes, but that ultimately had little effect on my overall enjoyment of the novella. The chemistry between Dante and Boone was great and made for some intense sexual interactions, especially when time was not on their side. Their relationship reservations were justified and fell in line with their pasts, especially when Ava provided Boone with her insight into Dante. And while I am looking forward to finding out whether or not Ava accepts the date request she received at the end of the book, what sold me on the Lobster Cove series was the way the community came together in Laddy and Boone’s time of need. I hope that future installments will allow readers to catch up with Boone and Dante and I look forward to meeting more of the residents of the Lobster Cove community.
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
April 10, 2016
Title: Welcome to Lobster Cove
Author: Carol Lynne
Publisher: Totally Bound
ISBN: 9781784305147
Buy Link: https://www.totallybound.com/welcome-...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Lobster Cove 1
When following your dream lands you in Lobster Cove, Maine, anything is possible.
After gaining custody of his younger brother, Boone Jensen moves to a unique LGBT community on the coast of Maine. There, he hopes to find work as a stonemason, heal his broken heart and give his brother a safe place to call home.
Life was good in New York City for chef Dante Madia, until his business partner betrayed him. Determined to trust only himself, Dante risks everything on a new restaurant venture in a small fishing village built on acceptance.
Neither man is looking for love, but in a town like Lobster Cove, secret dreams have the ability to become realities.
Summary:
As this series began we entered the lives of Boone and his challenged brother Laddy as they restart their lives in Lobster Cove. Boone's lover chose to leave when he gained custody of Laddie, but he never gave it a second thought. Laddy was everything to him and anyone would have to accept them as a package deal. Dante's life fell apart when his lover left taking all of their funds leaving him heartbroken. Dante's past left him unwilling to let anyone except Eva, a foster kid like himself, into his life. Starting over in Lobster Cove looked to be a great move, but neither expected their immediate and overwhelming attraction they would find at first sight. I enjoyed seeing how the children form the DC shelter are continuing their lives in a town where they are finally safe. This looks to be the start of another incredible series.
Author: Carol Lynne
Publisher: Totally Bound
ISBN: 9781784305147
Buy Link: https://www.totallybound.com/welcome-...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Lobster Cove 1
When following your dream lands you in Lobster Cove, Maine, anything is possible.
After gaining custody of his younger brother, Boone Jensen moves to a unique LGBT community on the coast of Maine. There, he hopes to find work as a stonemason, heal his broken heart and give his brother a safe place to call home.
Life was good in New York City for chef Dante Madia, until his business partner betrayed him. Determined to trust only himself, Dante risks everything on a new restaurant venture in a small fishing village built on acceptance.
Neither man is looking for love, but in a town like Lobster Cove, secret dreams have the ability to become realities.
Summary:
As this series began we entered the lives of Boone and his challenged brother Laddy as they restart their lives in Lobster Cove. Boone's lover chose to leave when he gained custody of Laddie, but he never gave it a second thought. Laddy was everything to him and anyone would have to accept them as a package deal. Dante's life fell apart when his lover left taking all of their funds leaving him heartbroken. Dante's past left him unwilling to let anyone except Eva, a foster kid like himself, into his life. Starting over in Lobster Cove looked to be a great move, but neither expected their immediate and overwhelming attraction they would find at first sight. I enjoyed seeing how the children form the DC shelter are continuing their lives in a town where they are finally safe. This looks to be the start of another incredible series.
April 5, 2015
Lobster cove is a new series spun off of the popular Cattle Valley Ranch series. With Cattle Valley filling up and many more LGBT people requesting a place there, Asa has purchased a town in New England.
I loved this first book of the series. We met Boone travelling with his brother Landon. Laddy has downs syndrome and d Boone got guardianship after his mother passed away. Life hasn’t been easy and had put in his application for Cattle Valley after his lover left him shortly after he got Custody. When Asa told him that Cattle Valley was full but there were opening on Lobster Cove Boone jumped at the chance for a clean start for himself and Laddy. He quickly got a job putting up stone on Dante’s new restaurant.
Dante was an up and coming chef that lost nearly everything when his business partner up and left taking most of the money. Sparks flew instantly between these guys when they met.
This was such a great start to a new series. The story line is interesting and new intriguing characters sprinkled about. There are lots of characters, though the main focus is on Boone, Dante with Ava and Laddy as their secondary characters. The extra characters add dimension and interest through the story. Once you start reading you are pulled in and before I knew it I was done several hours later.
If you like lust at first sight, fast-moving relationships, realistic settings and stories, cute kids, and a very sweet and hot relationship this is for you!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
I loved this first book of the series. We met Boone travelling with his brother Landon. Laddy has downs syndrome and d Boone got guardianship after his mother passed away. Life hasn’t been easy and had put in his application for Cattle Valley after his lover left him shortly after he got Custody. When Asa told him that Cattle Valley was full but there were opening on Lobster Cove Boone jumped at the chance for a clean start for himself and Laddy. He quickly got a job putting up stone on Dante’s new restaurant.
Dante was an up and coming chef that lost nearly everything when his business partner up and left taking most of the money. Sparks flew instantly between these guys when they met.
This was such a great start to a new series. The story line is interesting and new intriguing characters sprinkled about. There are lots of characters, though the main focus is on Boone, Dante with Ava and Laddy as their secondary characters. The extra characters add dimension and interest through the story. Once you start reading you are pulled in and before I knew it I was done several hours later.
If you like lust at first sight, fast-moving relationships, realistic settings and stories, cute kids, and a very sweet and hot relationship this is for you!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
April 10, 2015
Lobster Cove, Maine. It is the newest LGBT community that Asa Montgomery is behind. His Cattle Valley is such a success that there isn’t any room for more new residents.
While the tolerance and freedom of being himself is a good reason for Boone to relocate he also has to consider his brother who he has guardianship over. Laddy needs a new place to call home. A place where his brother can find work and they can be safe from people who do not understand differences in people. Boone is hoping that Lobster Cove is that place. A man in his life and love are the last things that Boone are looking for but they are one of the first things he finds in the new town they are calling home.
Bringing along a little extra baggage is okay in Lobster Cove. Dante rides into town with his best friend who has also been wronged by his business partner. Dante was never one to give trust easily in the first place. He had a rough childhood which saw him thrown out like the trash. He has pulled his life together once from nothing. Picking up a few scattered pieces and starting anew is relatively easy. It’s letting in the man who has his complete attention that he is having some trouble with.
Welcome to Lobster Cove is the first book in Carol Lynne’s new Lobster Cove series. It is similar to her Cattle Valley series in that the romance is smooth with only minimal bumps in the road to happily ever after. The town of Lobster Cove is unique in that it openly welcomes all LGBT people to come and settle down in the comfort of not having to worry about what others think.
While the tolerance and freedom of being himself is a good reason for Boone to relocate he also has to consider his brother who he has guardianship over. Laddy needs a new place to call home. A place where his brother can find work and they can be safe from people who do not understand differences in people. Boone is hoping that Lobster Cove is that place. A man in his life and love are the last things that Boone are looking for but they are one of the first things he finds in the new town they are calling home.
Bringing along a little extra baggage is okay in Lobster Cove. Dante rides into town with his best friend who has also been wronged by his business partner. Dante was never one to give trust easily in the first place. He had a rough childhood which saw him thrown out like the trash. He has pulled his life together once from nothing. Picking up a few scattered pieces and starting anew is relatively easy. It’s letting in the man who has his complete attention that he is having some trouble with.
Welcome to Lobster Cove is the first book in Carol Lynne’s new Lobster Cove series. It is similar to her Cattle Valley series in that the romance is smooth with only minimal bumps in the road to happily ever after. The town of Lobster Cove is unique in that it openly welcomes all LGBT people to come and settle down in the comfort of not having to worry about what others think.
May 9, 2015
FourandHalfStars
Boone and Dante are both running from their pasts when they agree to become part of a new LGBT community on the coast of Maine. Dante agrees to establish a restaurant and Boone will work as a stonemason.
I absolutely love the premise for this series. I love the idea of building an inclusive community from the ground up, and I love the smokin’ hot men Lynne has created for Lobster Cove.
Both Boone and Dante are reeling from betrayal and rejection when they arrive in Lobster Cove. Lynne writes her men with depth and sensitivity. Boone’s care for his brother is carefully written and very moving. Dante’s care for his foster sister is equally endearing. I love the way the inclusive community reaches out to Laddy, looking past his Down Syndrome and offering him a safe place to belong.
Realism has Boone and Dante engaging in very steamy sex from the outset even while they guard their hearts very carefully. Lobster Cove offers healing and respite, allowing Boone and Dante to slowly begin to trust and then love each other.
In this first book, Lynne introduces glimpses of several other enticing residents of Lobster Cove, and I’m hoping there’s a book for each man.
I really love this story - it’s a perfect beach read. I look forward to the next installment.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Sarah
Boone and Dante are both running from their pasts when they agree to become part of a new LGBT community on the coast of Maine. Dante agrees to establish a restaurant and Boone will work as a stonemason.
I absolutely love the premise for this series. I love the idea of building an inclusive community from the ground up, and I love the smokin’ hot men Lynne has created for Lobster Cove.
Both Boone and Dante are reeling from betrayal and rejection when they arrive in Lobster Cove. Lynne writes her men with depth and sensitivity. Boone’s care for his brother is carefully written and very moving. Dante’s care for his foster sister is equally endearing. I love the way the inclusive community reaches out to Laddy, looking past his Down Syndrome and offering him a safe place to belong.
Realism has Boone and Dante engaging in very steamy sex from the outset even while they guard their hearts very carefully. Lobster Cove offers healing and respite, allowing Boone and Dante to slowly begin to trust and then love each other.
In this first book, Lynne introduces glimpses of several other enticing residents of Lobster Cove, and I’m hoping there’s a book for each man.
I really love this story - it’s a perfect beach read. I look forward to the next installment.
I was given this in return for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Sarah
May 11, 2015
This is my first book by this author, and I just LOVED it.
Just over 100 pages, but nothing felt rushed. We have Boone and his brother Laddy have just decided pack up and move to a LGBT friendly community after Boone gets custody of Laddy, his brother with Down’s syndrome, and his partner of three years walks out. Fresh start, new job, new life, the only problem is the job he’s taken is only for 6 weeks and he has little money saved. Hoping that he will be able to pick up work once he’s settled they pack up and he out. Dante is also moving to the area but for different reasons, his partner and he were supposed to open a restaurant together. Restaurant is still happening, partner not so much. Ava, Dante’s best friend has also decided to move at the last minute and together these four make a rat pack crew fumbling their way through a new situation, new feeling and trying to let go of grudges. The way that the community pulls together during a crisis, the friendliness all make for a wonderful quick read, little unbelievable but one can dream, right?
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviews
Just over 100 pages, but nothing felt rushed. We have Boone and his brother Laddy have just decided pack up and move to a LGBT friendly community after Boone gets custody of Laddy, his brother with Down’s syndrome, and his partner of three years walks out. Fresh start, new job, new life, the only problem is the job he’s taken is only for 6 weeks and he has little money saved. Hoping that he will be able to pick up work once he’s settled they pack up and he out. Dante is also moving to the area but for different reasons, his partner and he were supposed to open a restaurant together. Restaurant is still happening, partner not so much. Ava, Dante’s best friend has also decided to move at the last minute and together these four make a rat pack crew fumbling their way through a new situation, new feeling and trying to let go of grudges. The way that the community pulls together during a crisis, the friendliness all make for a wonderful quick read, little unbelievable but one can dream, right?
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviews
May 15, 2015
Sensitive, Sweet, Sustainable
It's not easy to mix gay romance when one of the MCs is responsible for a challenged sibling, but Carole Lynne pulls off a minor miracle here. Seriously hot Boone (see cover) has obtained full custody of his Down's Syndrome afflicted teenage brother Laddy, lost his boyfriend over that, pulled up roots and moved to Lobster Cove, Maine a new "open" community founded by the developer of Ms. Lynne's Cattle Valley in Wyoming.
You can read the book blurb for the outline of the rest of the tale which has Boone and his employer, Dante, skirting all the issues of romance and love.
However, it's the subtext of the book, and specifically the character of Laddy and his brother's complete devotion to him, that brings this potential trifle up to the standards of a full scale strawberry shortcake. It's this sensitivity that sustains this story, elevating it to four stars.
It's not easy to mix gay romance when one of the MCs is responsible for a challenged sibling, but Carole Lynne pulls off a minor miracle here. Seriously hot Boone (see cover) has obtained full custody of his Down's Syndrome afflicted teenage brother Laddy, lost his boyfriend over that, pulled up roots and moved to Lobster Cove, Maine a new "open" community founded by the developer of Ms. Lynne's Cattle Valley in Wyoming.
You can read the book blurb for the outline of the rest of the tale which has Boone and his employer, Dante, skirting all the issues of romance and love.
However, it's the subtext of the book, and specifically the character of Laddy and his brother's complete devotion to him, that brings this potential trifle up to the standards of a full scale strawberry shortcake. It's this sensitivity that sustains this story, elevating it to four stars.
May 9, 2015
Another 5 star read for Carol Lynne. I can't believe that the MC's were sometimes overshadowed by Laddy. I have fallen for him and can't wait to see him progress. Loved Dante and Boone.In this small town they are actually being built on acceptance, for the LGBT community, but also extending to his brother Laddy, who has Downs syndrome. This is shown by the whole town out looking for Laddy when he goes on his TRIP (runs away) but made sure he had enough candy. Wonderful story and can't wait for more. Loved Ava, and especially when she is asked out by Mike, she can't believe it, then of course explaining to Laddy what the B stands for in LGBT, was a crack up. Bring up the next in the series, can see myself having this also in paperback as a perfect series. Thanks again for the great read Carol Lynne.
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