What do you think?
Rate this book
Border Crossing #1
Bombs and Guacamole
ER doctor Dusty Lowry grew up in a conservative rural Texas family that has never quite forgiven him for staying in New Mexico after his stint in the Army. Paramedic Nate Miller, Dusty’s best friend since their early Army days, has a hippie momma, a tiny apartment, and is in lust with his buddy. When their other Army friend, Kyle, gets married, they start thinking about settling down. In fact, they both know what they want: each other. Too bad they’ve never shared that goofy little fact.
A trip to visit Dusty’s family in Texas changes everything, and Dusty and Nate aren’t sure where to go from there. Good thing they’re smart guys, and between a series of bombings that target first responders, their friend Kyle’s wife getting pregnant, and more than one bowl of guacamole, they begin to figure out how to have a relationship.
But as the bombings get closer to home, Nate and Dusty must navigate love and commitment before they lose their chance.
A trip to visit Dusty’s family in Texas changes everything, and Dusty and Nate aren’t sure where to go from there. Good thing they’re smart guys, and between a series of bombings that target first responders, their friend Kyle’s wife getting pregnant, and more than one bowl of guacamole, they begin to figure out how to have a relationship.
But as the bombings get closer to home, Nate and Dusty must navigate love and commitment before they lose their chance.
214 pages, ebook
First published May 6, 2016
62 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
B.A. Tortuga
382 books632 followersTexan to the bone and an unrepentant Daddy's Girl, BA Tortuga spends her days with her hounds and her beloved wife, texting her grandbabies, and eating Mexican food. When she's not doing that, she's writing. She spends her days off watching rodeo, knitting, and surfing Pinterest in the name of research. Following their own personal joys, BA and Julia heard the call of the high desert and they now live in the New Mexico mountains. BA's personal saviors include her wife, her best friends, and coffee. Lots of coffee. Really good coffee.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 51 reviews
January 14, 2020
With a title like ‘Bombs and Guacamole’- which just made me go “huh?” - and knowing how funny BA Tortuga’s books can be, I just had to read this one. Just like the title and the blurb promise a mix between hilarious and suspenseful, this novel offers both with an additional portion of sweetness thrown in for good measure. Initially, the focus is on best buddies Nate, an EMT, and Dusty, an ER doctor, who have been secretly lusting after each other since their Army days. The threat from a bomber who is after EMTs emerges gradually and remains mostly in the background until the last few chapters of the book when the threat to Nate and Dusty gets personal. Well, more personal than it has been all along. This “sneaking up” of the danger made for an excellent read that had me almost lulled into complacency until the action exploded onto the page. Wow!
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Read
May 6, 2016I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review.
This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review..
DNF @ 22%
I'm sorry but I'm taking a much needed break from this author. I think I've done well with my reading by this author thus far. I've loved two books by her tremendously and that blind faith is what keeps be requesting her books. I can't in good conscience read anymore. I think I'll just remember Say Something and The Articles of Release as my favorites and those will have to suffice.
I won't ever disparage her by being mad by her characters. I'm just tired of the same formula. It's cowboys, southern states, that damn dialogue with choppy sentences and disjointed meaning. Levis, boots, food, friends to lovers and good Lord coke cola. I'm a Pepsi girl so sorry. For me I feel like I'm reading the same exact story with different covers, titles, and character names. It's always a friends to lovers trope, and the most menial miscommunication ever. I don't understand if these guys are suppose to be friends and have this great history of being in the army together why they couldn't confide in each other. It makes no sense especially when they know so much of other stuff. Yeah I know I can't make anyone come out the closet, but I feel like Dusty & Nate friendship and loyalty to each other was the exception. I couldn't put up with more of the twang or writing so I had to bow out. I can't recommend this book at all.
This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review..
DNF @ 22%
I'm sorry but I'm taking a much needed break from this author. I think I've done well with my reading by this author thus far. I've loved two books by her tremendously and that blind faith is what keeps be requesting her books. I can't in good conscience read anymore. I think I'll just remember Say Something and The Articles of Release as my favorites and those will have to suffice.
I won't ever disparage her by being mad by her characters. I'm just tired of the same formula. It's cowboys, southern states, that damn dialogue with choppy sentences and disjointed meaning. Levis, boots, food, friends to lovers and good Lord coke cola. I'm a Pepsi girl so sorry. For me I feel like I'm reading the same exact story with different covers, titles, and character names. It's always a friends to lovers trope, and the most menial miscommunication ever. I don't understand if these guys are suppose to be friends and have this great history of being in the army together why they couldn't confide in each other. It makes no sense especially when they know so much of other stuff. Yeah I know I can't make anyone come out the closet, but I feel like Dusty & Nate friendship and loyalty to each other was the exception. I couldn't put up with more of the twang or writing so I had to bow out. I can't recommend this book at all.
May 6, 2016
The romance and the connection between Dusty and Nate in this book is absolutely wonderful. I love friends to lovers stories. These two are fantastic friends and even better lovers. I love the intimacy they have as friends and I love the group of friends and family that surround these two men.
However - this is supposed to be an action/mystery about an escalating bomber. While I loved the romance, the action sequences became increasingly implausible until the final explosion made that scene from ER (where the helicopter lands in the hospital) seem understated.
Knowingly or not, the author gives away the bad guy early in the book which deprives the plot of any real tension.
If I could separate these two stories, I would award a five star rating to the friends to lovers romance and a two star rating to the exploding ambulances and emergency rooms.
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
However - this is supposed to be an action/mystery about an escalating bomber. While I loved the romance, the action sequences became increasingly implausible until the final explosion made that scene from ER (where the helicopter lands in the hospital) seem understated.
Knowingly or not, the author gives away the bad guy early in the book which deprives the plot of any real tension.
If I could separate these two stories, I would award a five star rating to the friends to lovers romance and a two star rating to the exploding ambulances and emergency rooms.
I was given a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
May 23, 2016
B.A. Tortuga always comes through for me. Dusty, Nate and the other characters were wonderfully developed. The bombings put some suspense and mystery in a beautiful story that highlights the U.S. southwest. There was a depth to the story that kept me turning pages. I loved that both Nate's and Dusty's families knew that the guys were gay. Nate's mother was a hoot. The cover picture is awesome.
Read
May 6, 2016A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Oh, how I loved this book! I’ve only just begun going through B.A. Tortuga’s library. I can tell you this. She does not disappoint. She writes characters who are real, gritty, and human. It’s not always pretty being human, and she captures it all in fantastic detail. Dusty and Nate are so much alike. They work hard, and they feel things deeply. They leaned on each other before they were a couple, and once they were together, the need to rely on each other became even greater. I thought their story was so romantic. Once they came to their senses, watching them fall was wonderful. There were times when it was angsty and rough, but that is what made them them.
Along with Dusty and Nate, there were quite a few background characters who were perfectly written. Their friend Kyle and his wife were great. They wanted to keep their friendship with Dusty and Nate strong, even though they were now married and living separate lives. Dusty’s family were loving, if not a little pushy. They wanted what was best for Dusty, even though Dusty didn’t think they’d approve of the one very thing that was best for him. Nate’s mom was a hoot! She was a pot smoking, crystal carrying, art dealing hippie who loved Nate with all her heart. In fact, Nate didn’t even need to come out to her. She had known for years. Honorable mention goes to Nate’s partners on the ambulance. Jet, his first, is wounded in the first bombing, after that, he gets Darla, and a police officer ride along named Lex. They all have great chemistry together. They’re a bit of comic relief. Lex is gay and hits on Nate, but not in a skeezy sort of way. It’s all very relaxed, until they have to get some work done.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Oh, how I loved this book! I’ve only just begun going through B.A. Tortuga’s library. I can tell you this. She does not disappoint. She writes characters who are real, gritty, and human. It’s not always pretty being human, and she captures it all in fantastic detail. Dusty and Nate are so much alike. They work hard, and they feel things deeply. They leaned on each other before they were a couple, and once they were together, the need to rely on each other became even greater. I thought their story was so romantic. Once they came to their senses, watching them fall was wonderful. There were times when it was angsty and rough, but that is what made them them.
Along with Dusty and Nate, there were quite a few background characters who were perfectly written. Their friend Kyle and his wife were great. They wanted to keep their friendship with Dusty and Nate strong, even though they were now married and living separate lives. Dusty’s family were loving, if not a little pushy. They wanted what was best for Dusty, even though Dusty didn’t think they’d approve of the one very thing that was best for him. Nate’s mom was a hoot! She was a pot smoking, crystal carrying, art dealing hippie who loved Nate with all her heart. In fact, Nate didn’t even need to come out to her. She had known for years. Honorable mention goes to Nate’s partners on the ambulance. Jet, his first, is wounded in the first bombing, after that, he gets Darla, and a police officer ride along named Lex. They all have great chemistry together. They’re a bit of comic relief. Lex is gay and hits on Nate, but not in a skeezy sort of way. It’s all very relaxed, until they have to get some work done.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
April 4, 2021
The doc and the paramedic, exciting !
They served at Fort Bliss, and as long time best friends, neither ever wanted to settle down with a nice girl, they both had close families, and unbeknownst to the other, they wanted each other.
Visiting Dusty’s folks for their 40th Anniversary, our men are afraid to risk their friendship.
Dusty is a doctor, skinny, dark curly hair
and a dedicated spirit.
Nate is a Paramedic, broad shoulders,
gray eyes and shaggy golden brown hair; a devoted man.
After a surprise kiss, they must sort out the emotions.
They begin super sexy times, first times that are exciting.
Then we shift to back home work, jobs, a bombing, at the mall and 1st responders were the target. The chaos begins.
Dusty cares for Nate at home, Christmas comes along, and we watch two extremely strong men, caring for friends, and cementing their bond.
Later, another bomb, Doc is hurt, a baby’s coming, escape and rescue is needed. Lots of thrilling moments, brilliant writing.
I loved the exciting story, the magnificent characters, and a terrific conclusion.
I highly recommend this!
ENJOY !
=====
They served at Fort Bliss, and as long time best friends, neither ever wanted to settle down with a nice girl, they both had close families, and unbeknownst to the other, they wanted each other.
Visiting Dusty’s folks for their 40th Anniversary, our men are afraid to risk their friendship.
Dusty is a doctor, skinny, dark curly hair
and a dedicated spirit.
Nate is a Paramedic, broad shoulders,
gray eyes and shaggy golden brown hair; a devoted man.
After a surprise kiss, they must sort out the emotions.
They begin super sexy times, first times that are exciting.
Then we shift to back home work, jobs, a bombing, at the mall and 1st responders were the target. The chaos begins.
Dusty cares for Nate at home, Christmas comes along, and we watch two extremely strong men, caring for friends, and cementing their bond.
Later, another bomb, Doc is hurt, a baby’s coming, escape and rescue is needed. Lots of thrilling moments, brilliant writing.
I loved the exciting story, the magnificent characters, and a terrific conclusion.
I highly recommend this!
ENJOY !
=====
May 10, 2016
a nice story of friends who finally decide to admit that they have feelings for each other. 1dr,1 paramedic . it was a pretty quick read, bombing angst ( had the guy pegged from first mention which was weird for me since I get it wrong lots). I wasn't engrossed in the story nor did I feel a connection with the characters ( which saddened me). I wish there had been some feelings or immersion in the story.
April 16, 2022
Typical BA Tortuga read. Easy, breezy friends to lovers romance between long time friends. Lots of food, winks, a tiny hiney, family, and good friends. This one had a bomber, and the MCs weren’t cowboys, but otherwise pretty standard.
April 13, 2016
Bombs and Guacamole by B.A. Tortuga
4.5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: Bombing
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
I really enjoyed this story. It was about more than the relationship between Dusty and Nate. It was about their friendship and their friendship with Kyle, who is also a minor part of there story.
Despite that they are now, all out of the service, Kyle, Dusty and Nate continue their friendship. In this story, you get to see how those relationships evolve. It is sweet, fierce and true friendship.
I really liked how Dusty and Nate's relationship was so organic. They knew that they had a great foundation. Communication was the key, and once they got over their shock, their relationship was both natural and real.
The mystery within this story was somewhat jumbled for me. And, although I like a good mystery this just didn't hit all my mystery buttons.
Really, this was about Dusty and Nate communicating and finding their way after the service. It was sweet and complex, but ended with a satisfactory result.
4.5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: Bombing
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
I really enjoyed this story. It was about more than the relationship between Dusty and Nate. It was about their friendship and their friendship with Kyle, who is also a minor part of there story.
Despite that they are now, all out of the service, Kyle, Dusty and Nate continue their friendship. In this story, you get to see how those relationships evolve. It is sweet, fierce and true friendship.
I really liked how Dusty and Nate's relationship was so organic. They knew that they had a great foundation. Communication was the key, and once they got over their shock, their relationship was both natural and real.
The mystery within this story was somewhat jumbled for me. And, although I like a good mystery this just didn't hit all my mystery buttons.
Really, this was about Dusty and Nate communicating and finding their way after the service. It was sweet and complex, but ended with a satisfactory result.
August 15, 2016
BA's Dreamspinner books have plot aside from the romance plot. The other plot here is that someone is bombing ambulances, and one of the protagonists, Nate, is a paramedic. I figured out right away who the villain was, and I never figure those things out. If the guys had figured it out that quickly, the book would have been much shorter. I enjoyed the romance plot. The protagonists feared homophobia from their families, so there was that element involved, too. In general, they talked things out somewhat, so that was good. They also ate a lot of Mexican food, which made me hungry.
Note that I judge books against others of their type. In other words, I am not judging this as high literature. I found it a pretty fast read given the length of the book, in a good way.
Note that I judge books against others of their type. In other words, I am not judging this as high literature. I found it a pretty fast read given the length of the book, in a good way.
May 18, 2016
Groanworthy. All these guys did was eat food: enchiladas, nachos, pizza, pizza, enchiladas, burritos, rinse, repeat. All while a ridiculous undercooked and farfetched plot went on. They started out like sort of real guys and quickly devolved into idiots who talked like 7th grade boys. The author just mailed this one in with no finesse.
July 31, 2016
Not feeling 100% & needed an easy to read no brainer & this was perfect, enough plot to keep me interested, uncomplicated, 2 clueless best friends, & enough guacamole that i need to make some now
August 14, 2021
This book was a solid meh for me. It starts kinda interesting, with two friends deep in the closet lusting for each other, but develops into a relationship pretty fast. Sadly, the relationship development seems rather chopped up and far in between. I actually often got the feeling they where only seeing each other once every few weeks, but maybe they did.
Instead we have way too many scenes of them eating Mexican food and a bomber subplot that devolved into ER drama absurdity the more it kept doing.
What I liked was that the coming out process for both MCs was pretty painless, without a lot of drama on either side.
But mostly the book bored me. I did not really feel the connection between the MCs and the book just focused on too much other stuff besides the relationship.
Instead we have way too many scenes of them eating Mexican food and a bomber subplot that devolved into ER drama absurdity the more it kept doing.
What I liked was that the coming out process for both MCs was pretty painless, without a lot of drama on either side.
But mostly the book bored me. I did not really feel the connection between the MCs and the book just focused on too much other stuff besides the relationship.
October 2, 2021
4.5 stars
Review - A sweet read. Two war veterans and best friends, Dusty n Nate are totally in love with each other, but they dont even know about the other person being gay...yet! They have a good time together, with all the friendly stuff and having takeout all the time! (You cant help but salivate at all the fantastic foods they are having.)
But once they discover their love, its really sweet to see them grow as a couple. Meanwhile there is a mad bomber on the loose and danger is getting closer n closer to our favourite boys!
Loved this romance with its low angst and sweetness all around. Their families n friends are awesome and the additional action was also great. Definitely recommended read.
Review - A sweet read. Two war veterans and best friends, Dusty n Nate are totally in love with each other, but they dont even know about the other person being gay...yet! They have a good time together, with all the friendly stuff and having takeout all the time! (You cant help but salivate at all the fantastic foods they are having.)
But once they discover their love, its really sweet to see them grow as a couple. Meanwhile there is a mad bomber on the loose and danger is getting closer n closer to our favourite boys!
Loved this romance with its low angst and sweetness all around. Their families n friends are awesome and the additional action was also great. Definitely recommended read.
June 6, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-gVd
From that review:Friends to lovers is a staple in BA Tortuga's contemporary romance fiction and Bombs and Guacamole (Border Crossing #1) is another action packed example. Sexy, fun, and full of the Texas warmth and chili pepper hotness I've come to expect and need in my BA Toturta stories, it features paramedic Nate Miller and ER doc Dusty Lowry, best friends since the Army who are about to get much closer.
jFor all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-gVd
From that review:Friends to lovers is a staple in BA Tortuga's contemporary romance fiction and Bombs and Guacamole (Border Crossing #1) is another action packed example. Sexy, fun, and full of the Texas warmth and chili pepper hotness I've come to expect and need in my BA Toturta stories, it features paramedic Nate Miller and ER doc Dusty Lowry, best friends since the Army who are about to get much closer.
jFor all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
May 23, 2019
I love BA Tortuga’s books and Bombs and Guacamole is no different. Good lord, I so want to eat the food that keeps getting mentioned in the story. It was like a tour of New Mexico and a little bit of Texas. So awesome. I love Nate and Dusty, they are just so sweet. I kind of love those oblivious friends who finally figure out what they truly mean to each other. Then mixed in is some military and a bit of a mystery. Plus great friends, it was great and I can’t believe I have had this book for a few years and hadn’t read it. I totally recommend this book.
December 14, 2021
ER Doctor and the EMT
Set mainly in Las Cruces, three veterans have settled. Kyle marries Lieh and they get pregnant. Doctor Dusty is overworked at the Emergency Room, drifting through life. The third in this trio in Nate, an EMT who is more honest about his longings for the doc. Trips to parents, a realization, growing comfort in being gay. Tortuga gives this reader incite into the trio, and the couple,while bombs continue to reign in Cruces. Mature friends accepting one another and themselves in a nicely written quasi-mystery.
Set mainly in Las Cruces, three veterans have settled. Kyle marries Lieh and they get pregnant. Doctor Dusty is overworked at the Emergency Room, drifting through life. The third in this trio in Nate, an EMT who is more honest about his longings for the doc. Trips to parents, a realization, growing comfort in being gay. Tortuga gives this reader incite into the trio, and the couple,while bombs continue to reign in Cruces. Mature friends accepting one another and themselves in a nicely written quasi-mystery.
June 3, 2022
Sort of sweet and goofy friends to lovers romance between Dusty and Nate, two guys who met and became best friends when they were in the military. Now Nate works as an EMT and Dusty is an ER physician. I really liked the pacing - they stumble around being friends, afraid to admit their true feelings and when they finally realize how they feel, they don't play games. The whole bombing first responders is a bit strange but the romance is sweet. The author has a quirky way of writing that does make you roll your eyes occasionally but I did enjoy this.
July 30, 2022
Action packed
Love loved this book - but I love all of BA's books!!!!! I'm ready to start the next one. But seriously this book was very very good lots of action love & smiles very harrowing around the hospital bomb and totally didn't expect the delivery again very good & fast paced - thank you BA
Love loved this book - but I love all of BA's books!!!!! I'm ready to start the next one. But seriously this book was very very good lots of action love & smiles very harrowing around the hospital bomb and totally didn't expect the delivery again very good & fast paced - thank you BA
September 19, 2023
Three military buddies gather at Kyle's wedding to Liah. Finally, Dusty and Nate move their relationship forward. The excitement and suspense of the story is the search for the bomber who is targeting first responders.
January 14, 2020
With a title like ‘Bombs and Guacamole’- which just made me go “huh?” - and knowing how funny BA Tortuga’s books can be, I just had to read this one. Just like the title and the blurb promise a mix between hilarious and suspenseful, this novel offers both with an additional portion of sweetness thrown in for good measure. Initially, the focus is on best buddies Nate, an EMT, and Dusty, an ER doctor, who have been secretly lusting after each other since their Army days. The threat from a bomber who is after EMTs emerges gradually and remains mostly in the background until the last few chapters of the book when the threat to Nate and Dusty gets personal. Well, more personal than it has been all along. This “sneaking up” of the danger made for an excellent read that had me almost lulled into complacency until the action exploded onto the page. Wow!
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 28, 2019
Nice, nice.
August 11, 2016
Upon first seeing the blurb for this book, I was really excited to read it and lose myself in the world of Bombs and Guacamole. The thing is, I couldn’t get lost in it. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a sweet book and I am not averse to reading another BA Tortuga book. However, it was so sweet I got bored and found it hard to pick up again after putting it down. As a matter of fact, I didn’t even finish reading it. Maybe I’ve become a cynic, but everything just went too smoothly for our intrepid couple, with no real drama or actual impediment to keep them from coming together. It’s just… Everything went a bit too smoothly for me.
Dusty and Nate have been best friends with each other and Kyle ever since they met while serving in the army. After years of Dusty, Nate, and Kyle spending pretty much all of their free time together, Kyle found someone special and got married. With Kyle happily married off, both Dusty and Nate started longing for their own happily ever after. With each other. Unbeknownst to one another.
When Dusty returns home to celebrate his parent’s 40th anniversary, he brings Nate along to meet the fam and join in on the festivities. Conveniently for the duo, there’s only one bedroom left, and it has but one single bed in it. Altho awkward, the situation ends up being quite fortuitous as Dusty and Nate are finally forced to confront their mutual attraction and love for each other. So, after a very steamy encounter, the two are now officially a couple. Just, in secret for now tho, because they’re not sure how those around them will take the news.
As their relationship progresses and everyone around them slowly finds out about the two of them, they are met with nothing but support and open arms. Even Dusty’s lothario of a brother who comes out for a visit doesn’t even bat an eye when he finds that the pair are more than just best friends.
Nate’s hippie mom is probably my favorite character in this book. She’s a free spirited, cooky, straight forward woman who basically tells it like it is without pulling any punches. We first meet her when she and Nate are dining at a restaurant close to her home, where she not only confronts him on his love for Dusty, but outs him to the server without even batting an eyelash. *For me, this scene was one of the highlights of Bombs and Guacamole.
Altho this book was not for me, it does not mean you should avoid it. After a few months, I plan on revisiting it to at least finish the story and see if anything picks up toward the end. If you like sweet, romantic tales where the main characters meet little to no opposition, definitely make sure you buy Bombs and Guacamole.
Review originally posted at: http://lovebytesreviews.com
Dusty and Nate have been best friends with each other and Kyle ever since they met while serving in the army. After years of Dusty, Nate, and Kyle spending pretty much all of their free time together, Kyle found someone special and got married. With Kyle happily married off, both Dusty and Nate started longing for their own happily ever after. With each other. Unbeknownst to one another.
When Dusty returns home to celebrate his parent’s 40th anniversary, he brings Nate along to meet the fam and join in on the festivities. Conveniently for the duo, there’s only one bedroom left, and it has but one single bed in it. Altho awkward, the situation ends up being quite fortuitous as Dusty and Nate are finally forced to confront their mutual attraction and love for each other. So, after a very steamy encounter, the two are now officially a couple. Just, in secret for now tho, because they’re not sure how those around them will take the news.
As their relationship progresses and everyone around them slowly finds out about the two of them, they are met with nothing but support and open arms. Even Dusty’s lothario of a brother who comes out for a visit doesn’t even bat an eye when he finds that the pair are more than just best friends.
Nate’s hippie mom is probably my favorite character in this book. She’s a free spirited, cooky, straight forward woman who basically tells it like it is without pulling any punches. We first meet her when she and Nate are dining at a restaurant close to her home, where she not only confronts him on his love for Dusty, but outs him to the server without even batting an eyelash. *For me, this scene was one of the highlights of Bombs and Guacamole.
Altho this book was not for me, it does not mean you should avoid it. After a few months, I plan on revisiting it to at least finish the story and see if anything picks up toward the end. If you like sweet, romantic tales where the main characters meet little to no opposition, definitely make sure you buy Bombs and Guacamole.
Review originally posted at: http://lovebytesreviews.com
May 6, 2016
Once their friend Kyle settles down with his new wife, Liah, Nate and Dusty keep the camaraderie going. Nate’s job as a paramedic, and Dusty’s as an ER doctor, keep them on schedules that are crazy, but they always seem to find the time to meet up. One thing both of them love to do is eat, and guacamole is a staple of their diet.
Dusty worries about hospital staff, friends, and family finding out that he’s gay. He recalls his mother’s reaction when he was younger, with the passing of his uncle. There’s also the pressure of his mother wanting a grandchild, so he can’t take any chances on coming out to his family. He’s really interested in Nate, but he tries to keep his feelings and his being gay a secret. Then he sets himself up when he asks Nate to join him on a trip home.
Nate’s had a thing for Dusty for a long time but just was never sure what to do about it. A lunch date with his mother, where Nate decides to come out to her, turns into dating advice. I love what BA Tortuga did with Nate’s mother, Sharon. She is fun-loving, easy-going, and speaks her mind. And that sometimes shocks Nate. The relationship between mother and son is adorable.
Besides the stress of everyday emergencies and Nate training new paramedics, the bombings bring danger too close to home. Nate, Dusty, and Kyle put their heads together and start their own investigation into who the bomber might be. The bombings also bring Nate’s and Dusty’s fears to the forefront—fears of losing each other and the special people they care about.
When I chose to read Bombs and Guacamole, I never expected the plot to be filled with suspense and danger. It was easy to follow and had plenty of action, humor, and romance. I thought the characters were very well developed, and they brought passion and friendship to the storyline. Dusty’s brother Austin was a really fun character too, with brotherly teasing and humor.
I really enjoyed this story. BA Tortuga shows us that no matter how you try to hide who you are, you may be surprised at how family and friends respond.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
Dusty worries about hospital staff, friends, and family finding out that he’s gay. He recalls his mother’s reaction when he was younger, with the passing of his uncle. There’s also the pressure of his mother wanting a grandchild, so he can’t take any chances on coming out to his family. He’s really interested in Nate, but he tries to keep his feelings and his being gay a secret. Then he sets himself up when he asks Nate to join him on a trip home.
Nate’s had a thing for Dusty for a long time but just was never sure what to do about it. A lunch date with his mother, where Nate decides to come out to her, turns into dating advice. I love what BA Tortuga did with Nate’s mother, Sharon. She is fun-loving, easy-going, and speaks her mind. And that sometimes shocks Nate. The relationship between mother and son is adorable.
Besides the stress of everyday emergencies and Nate training new paramedics, the bombings bring danger too close to home. Nate, Dusty, and Kyle put their heads together and start their own investigation into who the bomber might be. The bombings also bring Nate’s and Dusty’s fears to the forefront—fears of losing each other and the special people they care about.
When I chose to read Bombs and Guacamole, I never expected the plot to be filled with suspense and danger. It was easy to follow and had plenty of action, humor, and romance. I thought the characters were very well developed, and they brought passion and friendship to the storyline. Dusty’s brother Austin was a really fun character too, with brotherly teasing and humor.
I really enjoyed this story. BA Tortuga shows us that no matter how you try to hide who you are, you may be surprised at how family and friends respond.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
June 6, 2016
A copy of this book was provided for a fair and honest review through Love Bytes Same Sex Book Reviews.
Bombs and Guacamole is a smooth, easy read. I found the suspense of where and when the bomber would strike next to be riveting. I did find it rather easy to figure out who the bomber was, but it did not seem to take away from the drama and worry about the safety of Dusty and Nate.
Dusty and Nate are the classic case of two guys who can’t see the forest for the trees. Both are gay, although one is out and one is not, and they are nuts about each other. But they are both so caught up in believing that the other would never return their feelings, that they do not take the chance on making a move. Having been best friends for many years, they know each other inside and out. Yet neither one recognizes the need in the other. When they finally do see each other clearly, the romance is sweet and comfortable.
I loved both of the main characters. Dusty is a nice combination of laid back and intense that is the perfect balance to Nate’s go go go personality. Their mixture of romance and friendship suits them both well as they deal with the danger that has popped up in their professional lives and the angst of Dusty’s decision to not hide his love for Nate from his family.
The supporting characters are fun and interesting as well. Dusty and Nate’s army buddy Kyle and his wife Liah add a nice rich layer to the friendship that shines throughout the story. Add in Dusty’s irreverent younger brother and Nate’s wacky mom and you have a warm, family atmosphere to the book.
I really enjoyed the pace of the story. It flowed seamlessly back and forth from Dusty at the hospital, Nate and his EMT duties and their home life. And the build up to the climax in the bomber storyline was done very well.
I recommend this one for sure, and I am looking forward to seeing more of Dusty and Nate in future books.
Bombs and Guacamole is a smooth, easy read. I found the suspense of where and when the bomber would strike next to be riveting. I did find it rather easy to figure out who the bomber was, but it did not seem to take away from the drama and worry about the safety of Dusty and Nate.
Dusty and Nate are the classic case of two guys who can’t see the forest for the trees. Both are gay, although one is out and one is not, and they are nuts about each other. But they are both so caught up in believing that the other would never return their feelings, that they do not take the chance on making a move. Having been best friends for many years, they know each other inside and out. Yet neither one recognizes the need in the other. When they finally do see each other clearly, the romance is sweet and comfortable.
I loved both of the main characters. Dusty is a nice combination of laid back and intense that is the perfect balance to Nate’s go go go personality. Their mixture of romance and friendship suits them both well as they deal with the danger that has popped up in their professional lives and the angst of Dusty’s decision to not hide his love for Nate from his family.
The supporting characters are fun and interesting as well. Dusty and Nate’s army buddy Kyle and his wife Liah add a nice rich layer to the friendship that shines throughout the story. Add in Dusty’s irreverent younger brother and Nate’s wacky mom and you have a warm, family atmosphere to the book.
I really enjoyed the pace of the story. It flowed seamlessly back and forth from Dusty at the hospital, Nate and his EMT duties and their home life. And the build up to the climax in the bomber storyline was done very well.
I recommend this one for sure, and I am looking forward to seeing more of Dusty and Nate in future books.
May 4, 2016
This book was so incredibly good. I loved every minute of it. The two main characters Dusty and Nate are just unbelievably perfect for one another.
Now don't get me wrong they did not start out in this book as a couple, but that is because they were both chickens about coming out to their best friend and then losing the other, which in my opinion is very telling of the two of them. By this I mean that if they loved each other so much already before they got together and was scared of the feelings not being returned and losing their best friend in the process then they both must have really loved one another so much to settle for wanting the other to be happy with someone else. They put the others feelings ahead of their own feelings.
They did not have the perfect life. They both work too many hours and do not get a lot of time together but they cherish all the time they do have together. It seems like once they finally open up to the other then everything seems to fall in place.
But that is not all there is to this story. While trying to figure out what their relationship is or will become the city is running wild trying to figure out who the person is that is bombing EMT vehicles. And each bombing is escalating. The question is who is behind the bombings and when will the next one strike. Who will be in the line of the dangers that are out there but no one knows when they will happen or to who.
This book was full of love, laughter, bombs, guacamole, action, and uncertainty. It was such a great read that it was hard to put this book down. I would definitely recommend that others read it because it is an amazing read.
Given this book for free by inked rainbow reads for an honest review
Now don't get me wrong they did not start out in this book as a couple, but that is because they were both chickens about coming out to their best friend and then losing the other, which in my opinion is very telling of the two of them. By this I mean that if they loved each other so much already before they got together and was scared of the feelings not being returned and losing their best friend in the process then they both must have really loved one another so much to settle for wanting the other to be happy with someone else. They put the others feelings ahead of their own feelings.
They did not have the perfect life. They both work too many hours and do not get a lot of time together but they cherish all the time they do have together. It seems like once they finally open up to the other then everything seems to fall in place.
But that is not all there is to this story. While trying to figure out what their relationship is or will become the city is running wild trying to figure out who the person is that is bombing EMT vehicles. And each bombing is escalating. The question is who is behind the bombings and when will the next one strike. Who will be in the line of the dangers that are out there but no one knows when they will happen or to who.
This book was full of love, laughter, bombs, guacamole, action, and uncertainty. It was such a great read that it was hard to put this book down. I would definitely recommend that others read it because it is an amazing read.
Given this book for free by inked rainbow reads for an honest review
November 1, 2017
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this story.
I enjoyed this story.
July 1, 2016
This is a pretty low angst book about two guys who’ve been friends forever being pushed into really thinking about their lives and deciding that life is too short to be a coward where love’s concerned.
First they see their best bud get married and that emphasizes their desire to find that “special someone” for themselves. Then a mad bomber begins targeting first responders (of which they are both) and that really hammers in the point.
Though neither guy is apparently “gay” they’ve always been attracted to one another and there’s hardly a blip about “changing sides” other than a brief wrinkle concerning Dusty’s ultra-religious family.
In comparison to other books by the author, it’s fairly low steam, but high on sweet.
After a bit of alcohol one night they begin to explore a sexual nature to their friendship and pretty much never look back.
I think that fans of the author will find this is a laid-back, easy to fall into love story with mostly external hurdles to overcome. If you’re new to the author, you can expect a lot of “real” people doing “real things” like eating and snuggling and lots of babes and sweethearts and feelings.
It was a sweet book and I enjoyed it.
3.5 of 5 stars
First they see their best bud get married and that emphasizes their desire to find that “special someone” for themselves. Then a mad bomber begins targeting first responders (of which they are both) and that really hammers in the point.
Though neither guy is apparently “gay” they’ve always been attracted to one another and there’s hardly a blip about “changing sides” other than a brief wrinkle concerning Dusty’s ultra-religious family.
In comparison to other books by the author, it’s fairly low steam, but high on sweet.
After a bit of alcohol one night they begin to explore a sexual nature to their friendship and pretty much never look back.
I think that fans of the author will find this is a laid-back, easy to fall into love story with mostly external hurdles to overcome. If you’re new to the author, you can expect a lot of “real” people doing “real things” like eating and snuggling and lots of babes and sweethearts and feelings.
It was a sweet book and I enjoyed it.
3.5 of 5 stars
July 2, 2016
Another good read from this author.
Two men that served together, understand the basic beings that they are, gay, is unacceptable, that has been drilled into there heads for years, first by life than by the military. So even though they are best of friends they are scared to share this one truth with each other. And that is they love one another, they want no one else. And if they can’t have them totally, then the best of friends forever will have to be enough.
So we have three friends, but one breaks off with a marriage at the beginning although he is never far away. We mainly focus on Dusty and Nate. Both of these guys, have a couple of secretes that they want to share, scared to share, but in the end totally end up loving when they share!
I liked the getting to know each other on this different playing field that we followed once they figured out ‘the secret’. And even though the book has a huge second story going on, yeah whatever, someone wants to blow up everything!
I loved that Nate and Dusty, finally found each other.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviewers
Two men that served together, understand the basic beings that they are, gay, is unacceptable, that has been drilled into there heads for years, first by life than by the military. So even though they are best of friends they are scared to share this one truth with each other. And that is they love one another, they want no one else. And if they can’t have them totally, then the best of friends forever will have to be enough.
So we have three friends, but one breaks off with a marriage at the beginning although he is never far away. We mainly focus on Dusty and Nate. Both of these guys, have a couple of secretes that they want to share, scared to share, but in the end totally end up loving when they share!
I liked the getting to know each other on this different playing field that we followed once they figured out ‘the secret’. And even though the book has a huge second story going on, yeah whatever, someone wants to blow up everything!
I loved that Nate and Dusty, finally found each other.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviewers
Displaying 1 - 29 of 51 reviews